SEASPAR Takes Austin!
SEASPAR participants recently returned from an unforgettable 5-day trip to Austin, Texas, packed with sightseeing, local flavor, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Day 1 began with a splash on the Austin Duck Adventures tour, which took the group through downtown landmarks like Sixth Street, the State Capitol, and the Governor’s Mansion—before driving straight into Lake Austin for a water-based view of lake life. With duck quackers in hand, participants waved and quacked at everyone they passed. After a delicious lunch at Hula Hut, the group explored the Bullock Texas State History Museum, where they learned about Texas from its earliest roots to modern day.
Day 2 featured a trip to the Blanton Museum of Art, home to unique exhibits curated by the University of Texas. The group visited the famous Austin by Ellsworth Kelly and admired the outdoor sculpture Petals before heading to Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, to enjoy live music by the Ben Meyer Band—and of course, some dancing!
Day 3 brought peaceful nature walks through the Zilker Botanical Garden, including stops at the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, Riparian Streambed, and Hartman Prehistoric Garden. Lunch was a major highlight at the iconic Franklin Barbecue, followed by a refreshing dip in the cool, natural waters of Barton Springs Pool, where the water stays between 68–70°F year-round.
On Day 4, the group visited the interactive Austin Aquarium, getting up close with stingrays, tropical fish, wallabies, lemurs, and more. That evening’s dinner was at Terry Black’s Barbecue, which sparked a friendly debate—but most agreed Franklin’s still held the title of best BBQ!
Day 5 wrapped up the adventure with a visit to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, featuring native Texas plants and a scenic view from the observatory tower. The final outing was a Capital Cruises tour of the Mexican Free-Tailed Bats under the Congress Avenue Bridge, where participants watched thousands of bats fly into the sunset over Lady Bird Lake. The night ended with a joyful celebration for Mark Palcowski’s 46th birthday—a perfect ending to a magical trip.
This Austin getaway was packed with connection, culture, nature, music, and unforgettable memories. A heartfelt thank-you to the staff who made it happen and the participants who made it so special.