Plan a Veteran’s Day vacation to a year-round warm climate full of sun and fun. Make sure the fun is extra big when you set your sights on Texas. It has a unique military history and offers a variety of activities and attractions to celebrate veterans as well as keep their loved ones happy and busy exploring the city whose slogan is “Keep Austin Weird.” Discover how you can have fun on Veterans Day in Austin.
Capitol
Veteran’s Day is about fighting for what makes America – and Austin – great. The capitol building that stands today was completed and dedicated in May of 1888. For vets and other visitors who have also been to the U.S. capitol in Washington, DC, you may feel like the Texas capitol building is bigger.
In fact, the Texas capitol building in Austin is 14.64 feet taller than the U.S. capitol, based on measurements taken from the ground to the top of the Statue of Freedom atop the U.S. capitol and from ground to the tip of the Goddess of Liberty on the Texas capitol.
Texas Military Forces Museum
Texas has a unique military history that reaches far before the state joined the Union. Wander and take in everything in the 45,000-square foot facility while you explore the history of the Texas militia and volunteer forces dating back to 1823.
Permanent exhibits include samples of uniforms, weapons, equipment, soldiers’ personal items, film, music, and other items that reflect life in the military throughout its history. The museum also hosts several “living history” programs, in addition to battle reenactments and other special events. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
Several U.S. presidents – also known as the Commander-in-Chief of our armed forces – were born and/or raised in Texas. Lyndon B. Johnson is one, and First Lady “Lady Bird” Johnson was, too. Lace up your walking shoes or hop on a bike and travel the trail named for the first lady.
The low-grade, paved trail is the perfect path for pedestrians and cyclists alike, as it winds its way through downtown. You’ll get a beautiful view of the Austin skyline while you’re at it. Make use of available restrooms, water fountains, foot showers and other conveniences. There are boat launches into the lake, and a pedestrian/cyclist-only bridge over Lady Bird Lake.
Breweries & Distilleries
Raise a toast to veterans. Austin is home to a variety of breweries and distilleries. Grab something to eat and wash it down with brews from companies like Austin Beerworks, Austin Craft Brewing Company, Treaty Oak Distilling, Still Austin Whiskey Co., and others. You may even be able to buy some to bring back to your rental to enjoy with your next home-cooked meal.
Treaty Oak
You may be wondering how an old oak tree is a landmark to visit during your Veteran’s Day trip. This particular tree is a 500+ year old tree that is the last marker of the boundary between Anglo and Native American territory.
At one time there were a total of 14 trees that marked the area where Comanche and Tonkawa Native American tribes held meetings. The tree that stands today was poisoned in 1989, and after an effort to save the tree, it is now protected by a chain fence.
The Driskill
Walking into the hotel is like walking into a piece of Austin history. Opened in 1886, it was considered “One of the Finest Hotels in the Whole Country” by the Daily Statesman. The hotel was built for approximately $400,000 at that time, an equivalent of over $13 million today. The hotel hosts a variety of rooms, including suites, rooms, and handicap accessible accommodations. No matter the configuration, they all stay in keeping with the historic feel of the hotel in its heyday.
Texas Trail Rides
Military veterans of the distant past used to ride into battle on horseback. Book a group horseback riding lesson and explore the Lone Star Ranch trails in South Austin. Riders will be fitted with all the proper safety gear, then led across the scenic creek and into beautiful open nature of the ranch, all within Austin city limits. Rides take place rain or shine, unless it is deemed to be unsafe.
Lone Star Ranch is a working ranch, and trail rides are by appointment only. Please book online, bring a water bottle and trail snacks for yourself, and cash (no credit or debit cards).
Celebrate Veterans in Austin
When you stay in a vacation rental in Austin provided by Renters Club this Veteran’s Day, you’ll enjoy easy access to the area’s many fun activities, attractions, shopping, dining, and more to make a Veteran’s Day respite to remember for everyone. We offer one-bedroom units for a solo or sweetheart Veteran’s Day trip, all the way up to a ten-bedroom unit for a unique retreat to Austin with all your favorite veterans and loved ones.
Prepare the family’s favorite meal in the fully equipped kitchen and enjoy it in a spacious dining area. Afterward, spread out in an open living space. Enjoy a private balcony or patio or spend some time near a private pool.
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