Week Two: Graffiti Park and Halcyon

For those of you who love to adventure and do quirky activities, I have just the thing. Yesterday I was on a walk and happened to stumble upon a place that really helps “keep Austin weird” – Austin’s very own Graffiti Park. It is located on 1100 Baylor Street, just right off of Lamar. It definitely had never been on my radar, but I am happy I now get to say I have seen the Austin Graffiti Park.

Given I am from Omaha, which is definitely more conservative than Austin, I do not get to see this type of art much. It is amazing to see an entire hill of concrete blocks covered in it. Cartoon creatures, flying cupcakes, catchy phrases, lego heads and many more eclectic paintings make up this diverse park.

A picture of the Austin Graffiti Park. Walls full of art extend up the hillside.
Photo by: Kate Kutilek

I spent a solid 30 minutes taking the whole hillside in. There are so many colors to see, people to watch, and exploration to be done. It is amazing how artists do separate graffiti murals, but it all comes together as one. Also, it is almost exciting how the wall always is changing – the next time I visit there most likely will be a new piece done.

The Graffiti Park is free for everyone to wander, making it so easy for students out there to go. It will always remain interesting and very unique, helping keep Austin the out-there, diverse city it is.

Next I want to tell you about my Halcyon adventure. Halcyon is a darling little coffee shop, bar, and lounge mixture not far from campus. It has a very relaxed vibe with an intimate atmosphere.  I was told to go for the s’mores platter.

Expecting to get pre-made s’mores, I was surprised when the employee brought out a tableside roaster, but definitely not disappointed. I have never experienced something like this and rarely want to go out to prepare my own food. But, making s’mores at Halcyon was a part of the experience that made being there so great.

Here I am at Halcyon. I ordered the s'mores platter along with a tea. Yum!
Photo by: Annika Hathaway

Not a s’mores fan? Don’t you worry! Halcyon offers espresso drinks, cocktails, an array of appetizers and meals, as well as tasty treats to satisfy any sweet tooth. All of these options are offered at a reasonable price. Here is a link to the menu: http://www.halcyonaustin.com/menu/  

Until my next adventure in the best city of Texas, Kate.