Austin is the capital of Texas, situated in the central part of the state, on the eastern edge of the American Southwest. It's known for its vibrant culture, live music scene, and as a growing hub for technology and business, earning it the nickname "Silicon Hills". The city was founded in the 1830s and officially became the capital of the Republic of Texas in 1839. As of July 1, 2025, Austin is the 4th largest city in Texas with a population of 1,027,937.
Key attractions in Austin include outdoor activities taking advantage of the mild climate, such as paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake and hiking the Barton Creek Greenbelt. The city boasts numerous parks, including the popular Zilker Park, home to Barton Springs Pool. Cultural landmarks include the Texas State Capitol and the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Austin is also known for events like South by Southwest (SXSW), a major film, interactive media, and music festival.
Recent developments in Austin include significant construction projects aimed at improving infrastructure and expanding the city's offerings. The Austin Convention Center is undergoing a $1.6 billion redevelopment, expected to be completed in early 2029, nearly doubling its rentable space. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is also expanding, with new flights and a new flight attendant base opening. Additionally, Project Connect is expanding transit options, including a new light rail system. There are also new residential and mixed-use constructions, such as Uptown ATX and Four Seasons Private Residences Lake Austin.