SOUTH AUSTIN. Attuned to the belief that human health is connected intrinsically to the health of the land and the environment, this 279-acre center was founded by the former First Lady and by actress Helen Hayes. It promotes the use and restoration of native plants in the landscape and teaches visitors the beauty and utility of diversification and the wisdom of conservation. Incredible gardens offer spectacular plantings, wide vistas, abundant wildlife, and even ideas on rainwater harvesting. A gift shop, cafe, and picnic areas are available as well.

BARTON SPRINGS DISTRICT. The outdoor garden portion of this complex displays 62 of sculptor Charles Umlauf's works in bronze and cast-stone. The museum, constructed in 1991, contains more than 200 additional pieces. The sculptor also worked in wood, marble, and terra cotta during his career and chose as his subject matter mythology, animals, religion, the human figure, and domestic groupings.

BARTON SPRINGS DISTRICT. Situated on 31 acres within Zilker Metropolitan Park, this wonderful series of gardens on the Colorado River attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Highlights include a rose garden, a cacti and succulent garden, a xeriscape garden, and the breathtaking Tanaguchi Oriental Garden. The garden is generally open daily and is free to the public except during the Zilker Garden Festival in early April.