Summary of Best Outdoor Spots in Austin
Austin is fortunate to have tons of green space, hiking and biking trails, and swimming holes. Here are some of the best spots in and around town.
01. Barton Springs
Address: Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704, USA
Phone: +1 512-974-6300
Rating: 4.7
The 3-acre, spring-fed pool stays at a constant temperature of 68 degrees year-round. It’s by far the best place to be in the middle of summer, whether you want to cool off, swim laps, snorkel or enjoy fantastic people watching.
02. Mount Bonnell
Address: Mt Bonnell, Austin, TX 78731, USA
An ideal site for a romantic picnic, Mount Bonnell overlooks Lake Austin and has a panoramic view of downtown. You’ll climb up a long staircase, though, before you can enjoy the scenery. Over 770 feet high, the hill is one of the tallest in central Texas.
03. Lady Bird Lake
Address: Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX, USA
Rating: 4.7
Just south of downtown, Lady Bird Lake serves as the recreational hub of the city. For on-the-water fun, you can rent canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and, for the romantics at heart, a paddleboat in the shape of a giant swan. A trail encircles the entire lake, providing a beautiful view of nature.
04. Zilker Park
Rating: 4.8
With 350 acres available, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. You can play frisbee on the Great Lawn, feed ducks along Barton Creek, or explore the Austin Nature Center which includes a kid-friendly Dino Pit. Zilker Park also hosts the annual Austin City Limits Music Festival.
05. Barton Creek Greenbelt
Address: Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, Austin, TX 78746, USA
Rating: 4.8
The greenbelt features a minimally developed trail that begins at Zilker Park and winds through 800 acres in west Austin. After heavy rains, several swimming holes form along Barton Creek. This area also has numerous sheer limestone cliffs popular among rock climbers.
06. Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Address: 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730, USA
Phone: +1 512-974-1831
The park can get a little rowdy on summer weekends; however, it’s an excellent place for a group picnic. You can relax along the lakefront, play volleyball, or hike the dog-friendly Turkey Creek trail. The swimming area is sheltered from passing boat traffic.
07. Congress Avenue Bridge Bats
Address: S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, USA
The city’s most popular tourist attraction provides an unforgettable experience. Even if you’ve seen the bats before, viewing them from a canoe or party boat offers a new perspective. Most people gather on the sidewalk along the Congress Avenue Bridge and can also relax on the hillside near the bridge.
08. Zilker Botanical Garden
Address: 2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746-5737, USA
Phone: +1 512-477-8672
The peaceful Japanese garden is a favorite spot, featuring ponds full of koi fish, charming walking bridges, and exotic flora. In spring, the butterfly garden delights visitors, showcasing colorful flowers and butterflies.
09. Balcones Canyonland Preserve
Address: 24518 Ranch Rd 1431, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
Phone: +1 512-339-9432
This collection of minimally developed parks requires advanced registration for guided hikes. One of the most pristine areas in Austin, the parks are home to the rare golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo.
10. Cedar Bark Park
Address: 2525 W New Hope Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78613, USA
Phone: +1 512-401-5500
Cedar Bark Park, part of Veterans Memorial Park, spans five acres and includes a pond, drinking fountains, and showers for dogs. Canines can roam off-leash in two fenced-in areas, designed for large dogs and small pooches. Walking trails within the park cater to those who prefer leashed strolls. Although the park’s dirt and gravel surface is ideal for dogs, it’s essential to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as shaded areas are limited.
