The city of Cedar Park, Texas, is a fast-growing bedroom community 17 miles northwest of downtown Austin, the state’s capital. The population of the city of Cedar Park has risen exponentially during the past 15 years. From just more than 5,000 residents in 1990, the city of Cedar Park is now more than six times that size. One of the reasons for the explosive growth is the city’s proximity to Austin. While Austin is growing as well, some new area residents prefer the relative quiet and more relaxed environment for raising kids that the city of Cedar Park offers.

Another reason people are flocking to the city is that the biggest of the Highland Lakes, Lake Travis, is just five or 10 minutes away. When there’s been enough rain to keep the lake levels high enough, Lake Travis is great for swimming, diving and boating. Lake Travis is also home to state’s only public park that allows nudity, Hippie Hollow.

Cedar Park is also just a short drive from popular destinations in the Texas Hill Country including Marble Falls, where you can dine in any number of good restaurants, some overlooking the water. But the city of Cedar Park has its share of great restaurants, too. If it’s plain old American food you want, there are several of the national chain restaurants to choose from, including Chili’s, Applebee’s and Bennigan’s. If it’s barbecue you want, try the hometown favorites of J&J BBQ or Cartwright’s. There’s also a variety of Italian, Mexican and even steak restaurants to choose from. And if you doubted that the city of Cedar Park was actually on the map, they’ve even got a Starbucks.

Lodging is fairly limited, but the city does have a Best Western, Comfort Inn and Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites. One of these hotels would be happy to provide accommodations during your visit.

If you’re looking for a fun way to see the Hill Country, jump on an Austin Steam Train and go for a ride. Whether you ride the Hill Country Flyer or the Bertram Flyer, you’ll depart from the city of Cedar Park. Visit www.austinsteamtrain.org for details.

If you’re a spelunker or just have an interest in caves, the city of Cedar Park is a great place for you to visit in April and September, when the city hosts Cave Days. Participate in one of two guided cave tours at these times. For more information, visit the Texas Cave Conservancy online at www.texascaves.org.

If golf is your game, the city of Cedar Park is located near two top-notch golf courses, Avery Ranch and Twin Creeks Country Club. Finish a day of golf with another sport, baseball. The Dell Diamond, home of the minor league team, the Round Rock Express, is just a short drive away in Round Rock.

The kids will enjoy a day at the lake or even an excursion to a local water park, Volente Beach Waterpark. Ticket prices range from free for age 2 and under to $18.99 for kids over 42 inches tall. Visit www.volentebeach.com for the details.

Whatever you choose to do in the city of Cedar Park, you’re sure to have a great time. For more information, visit the city’s Web site at http://www.ci.cedar-park.tx.us/index.asp.