Lake Austin Riverboats, Austin

Lake Austin just may be the perfect place for Texas's oldest riverboat operation. Just consider the scenery: during cruises down the lake, limestone cliffs glow in the sunlight, while Mt. Bonnell stands tall in the distance. Boat tours also cruise past sparkling lakefront mansions and under historical Pennybacker Bridge.

The company's two boats—both built by hand on Lake Austin—are just as charming as the sights. The Commodore was crafted in 1947, and to this day charms passengers with its twin vintage smokestacks and impressive sternwheel. Its double dining rooms accommodate up to 250 guests. The pluckier Commodore's Pup is also sleeker than its predecessor, sporting an open-air upper deck perfect for wishing on stars or bribing the sun to stick around for a few more hours.