Austin, TX
Hazel Coffee Co. cafe opens in Ann Arbor with Austin, Texas, vibes
ANN ARBOR, MI — A coffee shop with Austin, Texas, “vibes” has arrived in Ann Arbor.
Hazel Coffee Co, 2111 Packard St., unveiled its offerings in a soft opening Wednesday, Nov. 5, co-owner Bryan Caragay said.
“The community around here has been the most supportive,” Caragay, 29, said. “We have had dozens of people yesterday and today just say how happy they are for us that we got through it and congratulating us.”
Caragay co-owns the shop with his wife, Hailey Polidori Caragay. The two hope to make their coffee shop unique by adding a “coffee-and-community tagline.”
“We really wanted to bring that Southern hospitality to the Midwest and just have a really collaborative, creative environment,” Hailey Polidori Caragay, 29, said. “We want it to be a place people gather from all aspects of creativity.”
Hazel Coffee Co. comes after years of doorstop drop-offs and event-catering, Bryan Caragay said.
The couple, originally from the Plymouth-Canton area and both 2018 Central Michigan University graduates, started a coffee catering company in 2020 when they resided in Austin.
Bryan said his wife dropped off coffee orders door-to-door and used one espresso machine to prepare drinks at the start.
The couple moved to Ann Arbor in 2022 and transitioned their coffee business to catering carts. Bryan said they opened the coffee shop as “a home base” for patrons.
“We get a lot of people saying that they loved our coffee at our catering events but there was nowhere they could actually come and enjoy the coffee themselves,” Bryan said.
The couple “blindly moved” to Ann Arbor because the city has “similar vibes to Austin.”
They began seriously touring potential sites about two years ago, but the locations were either too expensive or “the landlords weren’t great.”
Construction of Hazel Coffee Co., named from an early memory of Hailey’s mother drinking hazelnut coffee, began in May in a vacant lot, close to YORK Food and Drink and Core Collective.
Bryan credits the coffee shop’s landlords, whom he calls “the most amazing landlords you could ever imagine,” for helping him and Hailey with the shop’s initial financial struggles.
Hailey said many local business owners have already stopped by the coffee shop and are excited to collaborate.
“We took a lot of inspiration from coffee shops down in Austin, Texas where everything is super welcoming,” Bryan said. “Our whole thing is you should be able to walk in and get a very well-dialed espresso like a specialty coffee shop would offer. But also, if you’re somebody who’s not into that and you want a chai or a matcha, we’ll be able to provide that for you as well.”
Bryan said the couple does not want customers to be judged for their drink orders.
Menu items include a cinnamon sugar latte, maple sea salt latte and other house-made drinks.
“(Customers) should expect to feel welcomed immediately when they walk in the door,” Bryan said. “They should always feel like someone has made a connection to them and that when they come in, we’re going to make sure that they leave with something they were happy with.”
Hazel Coffee Co is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.
The couple is also passionate about technology. In their sophomore years at CMU, they came up with Guarded Safety, a smartphone safety app that alerts users’ contacts if they feel like they’re in a dangerous situation.
The couple’s product won the October 5×5 Night pitch competition at Fenn Valley Vineyards in Fennville in 2017.
Read more: CMU students’ app to improve college safety wins 5×5 Night contest
Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page.
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Austin, TX
Bluebonnets Austin: 25 Best Places To See Blooms In 2026

Jump To: Central Austin | North Austin | South Austin | East Austin | West Austin
Each spring, spotting the vibrant bluebonnets Austin has in bloom is a quintessential Texas experience. From the historic bluffs of Pease Park to the curated displays at Zilker Botanical Garden, the city offers diverse ways to enjoy these iconic flowers.
Editor’s Note: We work hard to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information. However, all details are subject to change. Please verify information before heading out.
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We only recommend experiences we truly believe in! Curious about how we choose our content? Here’s our process.
Remember to check out our complete guide to Easter Egg Hunt Austin, Best Summer Camps in Austin, Restaurants with Playgrounds in Austin, Things To Do with Teens in Austin, Spring Break 2026 Camps in Austin!
Bluebonnets Central Austin
University of Texas at Austin
Image credit: The University of Texas at Austin
Discover a hidden gem: stunning bluebonnet displays right on the University of Texas at Austin campus. Explore historic buildings and gardens while enjoying these iconic Texas blooms.
Where: 2515 Speedway, Austin, TX 78712
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday CLOSED | Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Pease District Park
Pease Park embodies the essence of Austin, with limestone bluffs, shaded trails, and rich history. Discover bluebonnets amidst this 84-acre oasis, restored and maintained by the Conservancy for everyone to enjoy.
Where: 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX 78703
Operating Hours: Daily 6:00 am- 10:00 pm
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Explore the Barton Creek Greenbelt: hiking, swimming, rock climbing, and vibrant bluebonnet displays! Discover multiple entry points along the creek and portions of the Violet Crown Trail within this Austin gem.
Where: 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Texas State Capitol
Explore Texas history and stunning bluebonnet displays at the iconic Texas State Capitol. This granite landmark, a National Historic Landmark, offers tours, exhibits, and a beautiful setting for wildflower viewing.
Where: 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Sunday CLOSED | Monday – Thursday 7:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Laguna Gloria
Experience art and nature in harmony at Laguna Gloria. Explore contemporary sculptures and installations, and enjoy the beauty of bluebonnets in this tranquil oasis, a world away from the city.
Where: 3809 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday CLOSED | Wednesday – Sunday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
North Austin Bluebonnets
Brushy Creek Lake Park
Brushy Creek Lake Park offers a diverse outdoor experience: a scenic lake, extensive trails, playgrounds, and beautiful bluebonnet fields. Enjoy nature’s beauty and family fun in one location.
Where: 3300 Brushy Creek Rd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Operating Hours: Daily 5:30 am – 10:00 pm
Bull Creek District Park
Bull Creek District Park offers a blend of adventure and natural beauty. Hike scenic trails, mountain bike, play volleyball, swim in refreshing water holes, and discover vibrant bluebonnet displays in this popular Austin park.
Where: 6701 Lakewood Dr, Austin, TX 78731
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park offers a wealth of outdoor activities: hiking, swimming, biking, sports, and off-leash dog areas. And don’t forget the beautiful bluebonnet displays!
Where: 12138 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Balcones District Park
Image credit: Balcones District Park
Balcones District Park offers family fun with a pool, playgrounds, and sports facilities, plus delightful bluebonnet sightings!
Where: 12017 Amherst Dr, Austin, TX 78759
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am- 10:00 pm
Great Hills Neighborhood Park
Tucked away in northwest Austin, Great Hills Neighborhood Park offers a beautiful hill country escape. Explore 80+ acres of natural beauty, hiking trails, and delightful bluebonnet displays, along with playgrounds and picnic areas.
Where: 10700 Floral Park Dr, Austin, TX 78759
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Champion Park
Champion Park offers open space, dinosaur bone castings, and gorgeous bluebonnet displays! Enjoy playgrounds, fitness areas, picnic tables, and climbing boulders in a beautiful setting.
Where: 3830 Brushy Creek Rd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday CLOSED | Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Beverly S. Sheffield Northwest District Park
Discover a pleasant park at Beverly S. Sheffield Northwest District Park. Enjoy a pool, basketball court, and picnic areas, along with nice bluebonnet sightings.
Where: 7000 Ardath St, Austin, TX 78757
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am- 10:00 pm
Mayfield Park
Mayfield Park: an oasis of historic gardens, peacocks, and bluebonnets. Escape the city and discover towering palms, lush greenery, and vibrant wildflowers, all within a tranquil rock-walled sanctuary.
Where: 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Bluebonnet Austin – South
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
For the ultimate bluebonnet experience, head to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Conveniently located near Austin, this center offers labeled displays, abundant photo opportunities, and a comprehensive introduction to Texas wildflowers.
Where: 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
Operating Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park
Discover a park with something for everyone at Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park. Enjoy trails, sports, fishing, disc golf, and lovely bluebonnet sightings.
Where: 907 W Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78748
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
St. Edward’s University
Image credit: St. Edward’s University
Explore St. Edward’s University, a campus with inviting walking trails and lovely bluebonnet sightings. Enjoy the natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
Where: 3001 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday CLOSED | Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
James A. Garrison District Park
Relax and play at James A. Garrison District Park. Enjoy the pool, playgrounds, and sports facilities, all while spotting beautiful bluebonnets.
Where: 6001 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78745
Operating Hours: Daily 8:00 am- 9:00 pm
McKinney Falls State Park
Experience the beauty of McKinney Falls State Park. Hike trails, swim in creek pools, explore historic sites, and find stunning bluebonnet fields, all within Austin’s city limits.
Where: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744
Operating Hours: Daily 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Zilker Botanical Garden
Interconnected themed gardens, including the Japanese Garden and Prehistoric Garden, are linked by accessible paths at Zilker Botanical Garden. Don’t miss the stunning bluebonnet displays in spring.
Where: 2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Operating Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
East Austin Bluebonnets
Mueller Lake Park
Image credit: Mueller Austin
With ample parkland, all residents in the Mueller neighborhood live within 600 feet of green space. Open to the public, this park hosts community events and is a prime spot for Austin’s bluebonnet season.
Where: 4550 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Roy G. Guerrero Colarado River Metro Park
Enjoy strolls along well-maintained trails, relax in picturesque picnic areas, and take advantage of the park’s convenient river access. Notably, the park is also renowned for its beautiful displays of bluebonnets during their blooming season.
Where: 400 Grove Blvd, Austin, TX 78741
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Rosewood Neighborhood Park
Rosewood Neighborhood Park offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, basketball court, and picnic areas. During bluebonnet season, visitors can also enjoy scattered displays of the iconic Texas wildflowers.
Where: 2300 Rosewood Ave, Austin, TX 78702
Operating Hours: Daily 7:00 am – 9:00 pm
Boggy Creek Greenbelt
Explore the Boggy Creek Greenbelt, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy hiking along its trails, discover the tranquil beauty of the creek, and admire the springtime bloom of bluebonnets.
Where: 1114 Nile St, Austin, TX 78702
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Bluebonnets in West Austin
West Basin Wilderness Preserve
A partnership between Travis County and St. Edward’s University safeguards 227 acres of stunning Hill Country terrain at Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, a key component of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve. Explore 2.5 miles of trails, engage with the Wild Basin Creative Research Center, and experience the seasonal spectacle of blooming bluebonnets!
Where: 805 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 5:30 pm | Saturday – Sunday 7:30 am – 5:30 pm
Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park
The park’s hiking trails wind through three distinct areas—prairie, canyon, and chaparral—providing varied scenery. In springtime, the park comes alive with a colorful array of wildflowers, most notably the iconic Texas bluebonnets.
Where: 614 N Commons Ford Rd, Austin, TX 78733
Operating Hours: Daily 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Emma Long Metropolitan Park provides open spaces, campsites, boat ramps, reservable picnic areas, and a beach entry swimming area. Bluebonnets also grow within the park during their blooming season.
Where: 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730
Operating Hours: Daily 7:00 am – 10:00 pm
Looking for more? See the upcoming Weekend Events in Austin.
Austin, TX
Final Public Input Meetings on the Community Wildfire Protection Plan Update Next Week
The Austin-Travis County Wildfire Coalition is hosting a last round of public input meetings on the Community Wildfire Protection Plan, which is updated every 10 years.
The City of Austin released a press release about the final two meetings on Thursday. According to the release, the meetings are intended to provide an overview of the project, hear from subject matter experts, and capture public comments for incorporation into the plan.
Meeting Schedule
April 8, 6-8 p.m.; Del Valle Early College High School Cafeteria, 4715 Ross Rd.
April 9, 6-8 p.m.; St. Luke’s on the Lake Episcopal Church; 5600 RR 620 N.
The coalition asks that residents RSVP to the meetings online and take this public survey to provide information to the coalition as it updates the plan. Anyone may take the survey, but the coalition asks individuals who plan to attend one of the sessions to fill it out beforehand.
The Community Wildfire Protection Plan identifies areas of wildfire risk, prioritizes investments for mitigation funding, and provides recommendations for hazardous fuels reduction and homeowner risk reduction practices.
Additionally, the plan offers policymakers guidance on wildfire response capabilities and evacuation planning frameworks. The Austin-Travis County Wildfire Coalition updates the plan every decade to ensure it reflects current risk conditions, data, and community priorities.
Members of the coalition include the City of Austin, Austin 3-1-1, Austin Water, Austin Fire Department’s Wildfire Division, the Lower Colorado River Authority, Austin Energy, the city’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management division, and more.
Learn more about the coalition at its website here. And stay updated on the CWPP process as it unfolds here.
Austin, TX
Tommy’s Travel Forecast: A wet Easter weekend
AUSTIN (KXAN) — You know the saying: ‘April showers bring May flowers’. A wetter-than-normal pattern is likely in Texas through early April, hopefully making a dent in our extreme drought, and lowering pollen totals!
It’s not just the Lone Star State; several storm systems will bring mountain snow, heavy rain, and the potential for severe weather across the country into the upcoming weekend, Saturday, April 4 through 5.
Severe Weather
The Storm Prediction Center has highlighted parts of the Southern Plains, Great Plains, and Midwest for potential severe weather on Friday. There is a level 3/5 (Enhanced) risk for cities such as St. Joseph, Ottumwa, Kirksville, Moberly, and Indianola.
There is a growing concern for large hail, damaging winds, and an isolated tornado in the highlighted area.
There is a level 2/5 (Slight) risk for cities such as Oklahoma City, Kansas City, Tulsa, Des Moines, and Overland Park on Friday.
Texas Travel
Traveling in Texas this weekend for Easter Sunday? Bring an umbrella and a rain jacket! Scattered thunderstorms, including a few strong-to-severe storms, are possible.
A strong cold front arrives on Saturday afternoon, bringing widespread rain chances. There is a level 1/5 (Marginal) risk for cities such as Houston, Shreveport, Jackson, Cleveland, and Buffalo.
High temperatures on Sunday will be cooler than normal. In Austin, we’ll likely remain in the 60s.
Wet Pattern
The Climate Prediction Center has high confidence in a wetter-than-normal pattern continuing through mid-April.

A few cold shots of late winter air will cool down parts of the Midwest and Northeast in the next week, with some late-season snow possible. Most of the country is trending warmer-than-normal.
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