Best Koi, But Not Shy Pond
Austin Aqua Dome
You might miss Austin Aqua Dome if you're not paying attention, but we guarantee that will only happen the first time. Once you see the grey bulbous wonder, located just off the whiz and whirl of Ben White Boulevard, you'll look for it each time you pass its way. The Aqua Dome is home to the south end's most unusual selection of tropical fish and waterplants - ranging from spiky sea anemones, brilliant rainbow-colored Hap Ishmaeli, and elegant Jumbo Discuses to the common yet intriguing black mystery snails. Behind the big dome is a great place to loggygag with the kids. What first appears to be a fish hatchery is actually a "grove" of waterplants: lilypads, cattails, and the like. Kids can put quarters in the pellet dispenser and feed the koi, who along with comets, guppies, and other swimmingly fabulous creatures (including - we counted - four lumbering tortugas the size of small tires) are kept in the water garden as mosquito control.