When people visit Austin, they expect live music, excellent food and to take in the city's natural beauty. Fairmont Austin recognizes that parks, trails and green spaces are big part of the Austin experience. They've put their money where their mouth is by sponsoring Austin Parks Foundation and participating in volunteer events like It's My Park Day!
We're so grateful for their dedication to our work in Austin's parks. We reached out to their team and got the opportunity to speak with Nenad Praporski, General Manager of Fairmont Austin. Here's what he had to say:
1. Why are Austin's parks, trails and green spaces important to Fairmont Austin?
"Fairmont Austin’s location is in close proximity to one of the best urban hiking and biking trails in the country on Lady Bird Lake. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, named for a former Austin mayor and his wife, is a natural gem in the heart of the Texas capital.
With more than 2.6 million visits a year, the 10-mile trail is Austin’s most recognized and popular recreational area. This is a place where Austin thrives.
For many local residents and visitors, it represents the best Austin has to offer: outdoor recreation; a scenic, natural environment; and a diverse, vibrant mix of people. The Lady Bird Lake Trail offers a convenient escape to the nature located in the heart of our gorgeous city."
2. What does supporting Austin Parks Foundation's mission mean to Fairmont Austin?
"Having such a developed parks system is the main reason why Austin is known as one of the healthiest and most desirable cities to live in. As an ambassador to our local community, Fairmont Austin feels that it is critically important to invest in, and maintain our beautiful parks for future generations to enjoy.
All the amazing green spaces of Austin should be accessible for everyone and it is a privilege to be able to assist in the preservation and maintenance of these sacred places."
3. What Austin parks would you recommend Fairmont Austin guests visit while in town?
"Besides the Lady Bird Lake Trail, a personal favorite is the Vic Mathias Auditorium Shores. With expansive green lawns and amazing views of the downtown skyline, this is the perfect place to lounge out, or have a picnic.
For those looking to get into more athletics, or to get their canine companions out to stretch their legs, Zilker Park plays host to everything from pickup soccer to beach court volleyball.
It is also the location for the famous Austin City Limits music festival every October! In the winter, it transforms into the “Trail of Lights” holiday festival, a must-see for locals and tourists alike."
4. Is there anything else you'd like to add?
"Austin Parks are the heartbeat of the city, where you can go from a bustling, fast-developing downtown district to the serenity of fresh water springs in a matter of minutes. For the health conscious and the aspiring, our lovely park and trail systems offer a perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy the beautiful outdoors year-round!"
