Austin Guide » Attractions & Activities » Parks
Austin Attractions & ActivitiesParks
Looking for some peace and quiet? An idyllic spot to relax and unwind? You've made it to the right category. Here, we list some of the most beautiful and functional parks in the city. Many provide jogging and cycling trails, picnic sites, and large, open areas for throwing a Frisbee or walking your dog.
Address: 2101 Barton Springs Rd, Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin, TX 78704
This huge, spring-fed swimming hole is surrounded by lovely gardens and pecan trees. The pool is fed by spring waters that maintain a year-round temperature of about 68 degrees, and bubble up at the rate of 27 million gallons a day. Trivia note: Robert Redford, at the tender age of five, learned to swim at Barton...
Address: Texas Hwy 21, 1½ miles east of Bastrop, Bastrop, TX 78602
Home to the "Lost Pines," a forest of pine trees that would seem more at home in East Texas, this park offers twelve log cabins, camping facilities, a swimming pool, a ten-acre lake, hiking, golfing, and more for the entire family to enjoy. For camping reservations, call 512-389-8900.
Address: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Austin, TX 78738
Once private lands, this 232-acre preserve is now owned in part by the county and is being restored to its natural state. Its focus is a soothing green pool nourished by a 45-foot waterfall. The formation took shape millennia ago when the land above an underground river collapsed; today, it's a pastoral haven for...
Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744
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This 640-acre park boasts a unique swimming pool located under the falls. Hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking are available, along with camping facilities. Located 13 miles southeast of downtown Austin off US 183. For camping reservations, call 512-389-8900.
Address: 3800 Mt. Bonnell Rd, Austin, TX 78731
This spot offers the best view of Austin from its peak at 780 feet above sea level (the rest of the area is about 580 feet). A great spot for picnicking, too, with rolling hills, the Colorado River, and all of Austin virtually spread out before you.
Address: 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX
Popular with picnickers and joggers thanks to a convenient location and almost palpable serenity, Pease Park is also a favored hangout of students from the nearby University of Texas. Many local events are held here throughout the year. Located along Shoal Creek between 12th and 24th Streets.
Shoal Creek Hike and Bike Trail
Address: N Lamar Blvd, Pease Park, Austin, TX 78704
This wide trail spans more than four miles along Shoal Creek, starting in Pease Park. The lush greenbelt is a favorite of cyclists, joggers, and hikers.
Address: 1928 S Lakeshore Blvd, Town Lake, Austin, TX 78741
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At one point, an effort was made to rename this park after Lady Bird Johnson, who was instrumental in its beautification process. Any time of the day, you'll find its trails packed with hikers, joggers, cyclists, and nature lovers. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, you'll also find lots of activity around the pool....
Address: 403 E 15th St, Austin, TX 78701-1437
This quiet, relaxing spot serves as a haven for people wanting to escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The park also serves as the site for the annual Renaissance Festival.
Address: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
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This 351-acre park is arguably the most popular in town. Train rides, a playscape for kids, a swimming pool, and jogging trails are available. Other attractions include Zilker Botanical Garden, Austin Nature and Science Center, Umlauf Sculpture Garden, and Zilker Hillside Theater.
