Austin is a tree-lined city, alive and bustling with young people (I read somewhere that the average age is 34).

Zilker Park is probably the most “famous” park in Austin…and for good reason. It’s HUGE and features great playscapes, a miniature train, a sculpture garden, and running paths.

We also spent an afternoon at City Park, adjacent to Lake Travis. We walked along the path, touched the shimmering water, and went sliding down tall slides. You’ll notice our 4-year-old’s wounds. She fell off the top of a picnic table and face-planted the cement at our campground one afternoon. (Scared me to death).

As soon as I heard that Whole Foods Market was based in Austin, TX, I e-mailed and asked for a tour of the gigantic flagship store (That’s what you would do too, right? Tim thought it was a little weird that we were touring a grocery store). Parking was a bit of a nightmare, but it really was a site to behold. Incredible selection…delectable eye candy for foodies…plus, free fruit for kids at the entrance (every grocery story ought to do something similar).

Central Market, a grocer chain that is local to Texas, has a similar feel to Whole Foods. Beautiful displays…delicious food…a giant playscape. Don’t you think all grocery stores should have a restaurant and playground on-site?

I also had tea at The Steeping Room with a classmate from high school (over ten years ago). The spiced apricot scone I had there was the best I’ve ever tasted.

Have you ever been to Austin? What did you like/dislike about it?

Also – do you ever shop at Whole Foods? Why or why not?