Austin is the capital of the State of Texas. It is located in the central part of the state along the Colorado River. It is the 4th largest city in the state (behind Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio), and the 16th largest in the US.

Originally called Waterloo, the city was renamed to honor Stephen Fuller Austin, popularly known as the "Father of Texas", and became the capital of the Republic of Texas. It remained capital when Texas became a state in 1845.

Austin's climate is considered humid subtropical with hot, sometimes brutally so, summers and mild, dry winters. Rain falls most frequently in the spring and may be accompanied by severe thunderstorms or tornadoes. Snowfall is rare.

The University of Texas at Austin, with one of the largest student enrollments in the US, provides an educated workforce for the local economy. Several high tech companies are located in the area leading some to call the region "Silicon Hills". As the state's capital, the state government also provides a significant contribution to Austin's economy.

Though Austin has no major professional sports franchises, its proximity to the Texas Hill Country offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking, biking, and fishing are popular sports.

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