Best Landscaping

Zilker Botanical Garden

As if Austin's favorite city park weren't wonderful enough, this jewel in the top of the Zilker tiara shines often in this category. Topiary letters: Z-I-L-K-E-R G-A-R-D-E-N welcome visitors at the gate's entrance. From there, it becomes more surreal and serene. Ponder Texas native vegetation on a bench in the Xeriscape gardens. Sit in the tea room of the Isamu Taniguchi Oriental Gardens; be careful, some paths are gentle, some are challenging. Enjoy historic area architectural features like the Bickler Cupola and the Butler Window, overlooking sweet-smelling American Roses. It's Austin's theme park of serenity!

Zilker Botanical Garden
2220 Barton Springs Rd., 512/477-8672
www.zilkergarden.org