Kind Reader, if you’re looking for a fun and affordable way to spend your afternoon in Austin, then packing a picnic and finding the perfect spot is the way to go. Austin has a plethora of green spaces and scenic areas, making it easy to find a picturesque spot for your picnic. From parks to gardens and lakeside views, there are plenty of options when it comes to Austin picnic spots. Whether you’re looking for a romantic setting or a place for the whole family, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your needs.
Top 3 Austin Picnic Spots with Breathtaking Views
With its scenic beauty and beautiful parks, Austin offers some of the best picnic spots in the country. The green spaces of Austin provide a perfect opportunity to take a break, relax, and enjoy nature with family and friends. Here are some of the best picnic spots in Austin to enjoy a lovely picnic with your loved ones:
Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a scenic 7.5-mile stretch along Barton Creek. With a picturesque view and incredible natural beauty, this is among the most popular picnic spots in Austin. This picnic spot has plenty of space for outdoor activities, hiking, swimming, and cycling. There are also plenty of picnic sites with picnic tables and grills as well as restrooms.
Zilker Park
Zilker Park is Austin’s largest park and a popular picnic spot because of its wide-open space and stunning views. With a beautiful lawn and a spring-fed pool, it is an ideal place for a family picnic. There are plenty of picnic areas with barbecue pits and shaded areas.
Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake is a gorgeous location for a picnic in Austin. It is peaceful, with a sparkling lake and stunning views of the city. Pack your picnic basket and a blanket and head off to the park for a relaxing afternoon by the water. With several shaded picnic areas and changing facilities, it’s perfect for a summer picnic in the city.
Top 3 Hidden Gem Austin Picnic Spots
Austin has some beautiful parks outside the typical tourist hotspots that offer serene picnic spots with plenty of space. Here are three of Austin’s hidden gem picnic spots to visit for a unique and unforgettable picnic experience:
Bull Creek District Park
Bull Creek District Park is an idyllic location for a picnic on the northwestern edge of Austin. Bull Creek’s main attraction is its sparkling blue creek and large open fields perfect for outdoor picnics. With plenty of hiking trails and shaded picnic areas, this is a perfect spot for a tranquil picnic away from the crowds.
The Mayfield Park and Preserve
The Mayfield Park and Preserve is located in the western part of Austin and is a hidden gem for a picnic. It’s a serene and peaceful park filled with wildlife and a lake and pond. You can relax on the lawn and enjoy beautiful peacocks wandering around the park. There are no picnic tables available, but it is the perfect spot to bring a picnic blanket and some cozy picnic accessories.
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Fringed by dense woods in North Austin, the Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park picnic spot is a haven for those seeking a secluded and tranquil picnic in the woods. With a beautiful stream, hiking trails, and mountain biking trails, it is the perfect spot for a picnic with an adventure. The park has several picnic tables and BBQ pits available, so you can cook up some treats while enjoying the woods.
Natural Beauty of Austin Picnic Spots
Austin boasts a plethora of picnic spots that are known for their natural beauty. If you’re planning to have a picnic with your family or friends, these spots offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city:
Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt trail is considered one of the most iconic picnic spots in Austin. The trail spans 7.9 miles and offers an array of scenic spots to enjoy a picnic with loved ones. The trail is highlighted with stunning waterfalls, swimming holes and opportunities to kayak, bike or hike and enjoy amazing views of the Austin Capitol and downtown skyline.
Zilker Park
Zilker Park is one of Austin’s largest and most popular parks. Located in the heart of the city, the park spans more than 350 acres and is known for its open green spaces, picnic areas and stunning views of Austin’s downtown skyline and Lady Bird Lake.
Lakefront Austin Picnic Spots
Austin is home to several beautiful lakefront picnic spots for you to relax and take in nature. Here are a few of our favorites:
Emma Long Metropolitan Park
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the lake and nature, Emma Long Metropolitan Park is a great choice. Located on Lake Austin, the park spans more than 1,000 acres and includes several picnic areas, swimming areas, and boat rentals. The park also features hiking trails with stunning views of the Texas Hill Country.
Mueller Lake Park
Mueller Lake Park is a beautiful 30-acre lakefront park that is ideal for a laid-back picnic. The park features several walking trails, picnic areas, and a small kid’s playground. You can catch a stunning view of the sunset over the park’s iconic Texas-shaped pond while you enjoy your meal.
| No | Picnic Spot Name | Location | Features | Rating (Out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zilker Park | 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX | Greenery, playscapes, trails, picnic tables, lake, gardens, mini train | 4.9 |
| 2 | Emma Long Metropolitan Park | 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX | Beach, camping, boating, hiking, biking, picnic tables, volleyball court | 4.2 |
| 3 | Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve | 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX | Gardens, ponds, peacocks, wildlife, picnic areas, trails | 4.6 |
| 4 | Pease Park | 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX | Playscapes, trails, picnic tables, splash pad, disc golf course, sports courts | 4.3 |
| 5 | Barton Springs Pool | 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX | Natural spring pool, picnic areas, grassy hills, hiking trails | 4.5 |
Best Picnic Spots Near Downtown Austin
When it comes to picnics, nothing beats the convenience of having a beautiful park right in the center of the city. Zilker Metropolitan Park located in downtown Austin is a popular spot for picnics with its wide-open green spaces, multiple picnic tables, and spectacular views of downtown Austin skyline. The park also has a variety of amenities for families, including a playground, a hiking trail, and Barton Springs Pool. Don’t forget to bring your frisbee, soccer ball, or hammock for a perfect day out!
Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring-fed pool that is three acres in size and has an average temperature of 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit. If you plan on picnic and spending the day in Zilker Park, a stop at the Barton Springs Pool is a must to cool off from the Texas heat.
Austin City Limits Music Festival
If you happen to visit Austin during the fall season, the Austin City Limits Music Festival is a must-visit event. The two-weekend festival is held in Zilker Park and features top artists like Billie Eilish, Stevie Nicks, and George Strait.
Austin’s Hidden Gem Picnic Spots
If you’re looking for a more secluded and hidden picnic spot, Austin has some great nature preserves and botanical gardens that offer the perfect blend of nature and relaxation. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve located in west Austin offers hikes catering to different skill levels, so you can find your perfect spot.
Auditorium Shores
Auditorium Shores is a 57-acre park that offers stunning views of the water and a large open space, making it the perfect picnic spot for families or groups. The park is also a great spot if you want to bring your furry friends along for a picnic.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a natural oasis located near the edge of southwest Austin. The center is open daily and has numerous picnic areas and hikes that allow visitors to get back to nature. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the vibrant colors of the wildflowers.
| No | LSI Keywords |
|---|---|
| 1 | Austin downtown picnic, Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Park, Austin City Limits Music Festival |
| 2 | Austin hidden gem picnic spots, Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, Auditorium Shores, The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center |
Best Picnic Spots Near Austin for Families
If you are looking for perfect picnic spots near Austin to spend quality time with your family, then you are in luck. Austin has some of the best family-friendly picnic areas where you can plan a day out with your loved ones and enjoy the beautiful weather.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker Metropolitan Park is undoubtedly one of the largest and most famous parks in Austin. It offers visitors a variety of picnic areas, with beautiful gardens and scenic trails perfect for walking and biking. People can also rent kayaks, paddleboats and canoes to enjoy the water the park has to offer.
Mayfield Park
Mayfield Park is perfect for families looking for a relaxing and peaceful picnic spot. This 23-acre park has beautiful trails, stunning gardens and peacocks roaming around the area. Its serene atmosphere will help you unwind from your busy schedule.
| No | Name of Park | Address | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zilker Metropolitan Park | 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States | Picnic Area, Gardens, Walking and Biking Trail, Boat Rental |
| 2 | Mayfield Park | 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703, United States | Picnic Area, Gardens, Walking Trail, Peacock Roaming Area |
If you are looking for an escape from the city’s hustle-bustle, then these family-friendly picnic spots will provide just the relaxation and fun you need.
Best Picnic Spots Near Austin for Couples
Couples can make the most of their time in Austin by visiting some picturesque picnic spots. These parks offer beautiful views and romantic settings, making them perfect for a couple’s day out.
Mueller Lake Park
Mueller Lake Park is a beautifully maintained park located in the heart of Austin. It is an excellent picnic spot for couples, with facilities such as walking and biking trails, basketball and volleyball courts, and a playground.
Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Emma Long Metropolitan Park is a couple’s paradise, with a stunning view of Lake Austin and picnic areas surrounded by tall trees. It is also popular for kayaking and fishing, in addition to other recreational activities.
| No | Name of Park | Address | Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mueller Lake Park | 4550 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723, United States | Picnic Area, Walking and Biking Trail, Basketball and Volleyball Courts, Playground |
| 2 | Emma Long Metropolitan Park | 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730, United States | Picnic Area, Fishing, Kayaking, Recreational Activities |
These beautiful and serene picnic spots near Austin offer a romantic and peaceful escape for couples looking for a break from their routine.
Best Picnic Spots in Austin for Families
Austin is a great destination for a family picnic day. There are plenty of parks and gardens to explore, and most of them offer fun activities for kids and adults alike. Here are some of the best picnic spots in Austin for families.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker Park is located in the heart of Austin and is a popular destination for families. The park covers over 350 acres and offers plenty of green space for picnics and playtime. There is also a large playground, a miniature train, and a natural swimming pool in the park.
Pease Park
Pease Park is located in central Austin and spans 84 acres. The park offers several picnic areas, a playground, hiking trails, and a creek that runs through the park. The park hosts several events throughout the year, including kite festivals and music concerts.
Pet-friendly Picnic Spots in Austin
If you’re a dog owner, you might want to bring your furry friend along for a picnic day in Austin. Here are some of the pet-friendly picnic spots in Austin.
Red Bud Isle
Red Bud Isle is a 13-acre island park located on the Colorado River. The park is leash-free, so your dogs can run and play unrestrained while you enjoy a picnic. You can also rent paddleboards or kayaks to experience the river with your pets.
Bull Creek District Park
Bull Creek District Park is a 48-acre park located in northwest Austin. The park features a creek, trails, and several picnic tables and grills. The park welcomes well-behaved dogs, but they should be kept on a leash at all times.
Best Hidden Picnic Spots in Austin
If you are looking for a peaceful and secluded picnic spot in Austin, check out these hidden gems that offer breathtaking views and serene settings.
José Coronado Playground and Picnic Area
This hidden gem is situated on a hill overlooking the downtown skyline. It’s a serene spot that’s perfect for a quiet picnic with a view. The playground facilities also make it an ideal spot for families with kids.
Mayfield Park and Preserve
This beautiful park and nature preserve is home to peacocks, koi fish ponds, and walking trails. It’s the perfect place to have a picnic surrounded by nature and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
For a more adventurous picnic spot, head to the Barton Creek Greenbelt. With miles of hiking trails, swimming holes, and plenty of natural beauty, this spot is the perfect place to pack a picnic and spend the day exploring.
Lake Pflugerville
Located just outside of Austin, Lake Pflugerville is home to picnic areas, grills, and a beach. Pack a picnic and enjoy the serene lake views, or take a dip in the water to cool off on a hot Texas day.
Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center
This nature preserve features a gorgeous cave, hiking trails, and a picturesque waterfall. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day exploring the natural wonders of this peaceful oasis.
The Austonian Rooftop
If you’re looking for a luxurious picnic experience, head to the top of The Austonian building. With breathtaking views of the city and plenty of space to spread out, this is the perfect spot for a special occasion picnic.
| No | LSI Keywords |
|---|---|
| 1 | Hidden Picnic Spots |
| 2 | José Coronado Playground |
| 3 | Mayfield Park |
| 4 | Barton Creek Greenbelt |
| 5 | Lake Pflugerville |
| 6 | Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center |
| 7 | The Austonian Rooftop |
Campbell’s Hole
Campbell’s Hole is a natural swimming spot and a secret hideaway for many locals and visitors alike. Located in a beautiful park in Austin, it is a great spot to rest and relax while taking in the natural beauty of the place. This picturesque site is best for older children and adults, as it can get slippery and a bit difficult to navigate for younger kids. Campbell’s Hole also offers many other activities that you can enjoy with your family and friends, including hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
How to Get to Campbell’s Hole
The entrance to Campbell’s Hole is just south of the pedestrian bridge over Barton Creek. Walk upstream on the trail until you reach a well-marked trail junction. Follow the path over the creek. Walk upstream, and you should see Campbell’s Hole soon.
The Best Time to Visit Campbell’s Hole
It’s always an ideal time to visit Campbell’s Hole, but it’s best to avoid peak times on weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is another popular picnic spot located in Austin. It’s a natural spring-fed pool that’s been a favorite spot for swimming, sunbathing, and doing yoga for generations. The pool is about three acres wide and up to 18 feet deep, making it the perfect spot for anyone who loves to swim. The pool has a lifeguard on duty most times, and there are plenty of grassy areas to relax, have a picnic, or enjoy a good book. Barton Springs Pool is the perfect spot for anyone looking to spend a relaxing day in the sun and water with family and friends.
More About Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm, except for Thursday when it’s closed for cleaning. Also, if you plan to visit during the summer months, be prepared to wait in a long line to get into the pool. It’s best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
The Cost of Barton Springs Pool
If you’re an Austin resident, admission is just $5 for adults and $2 for children. If you’re not an Austin resident, admission is $9 for adults and $4 for children.
Austin Picnic Spots FAQ
Are you planning a picnic in Austin? Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers on Austin picnic spots:
1. Can I bring my dog to Austin picnic spots?
It depends on the park. Some parks allow dogs on leashes, while others don’t. You should always check the park rules before bringing your pup.
2. Can I reserve a picnic area in Austin parks?
Yes, you can. Most parks allow online reservations, and some parks even have picnic areas with barbecue pits, electricity, and water.
3. Is it allowed to consume alcohol in Austin picnic spots?
It depends on the park. Some parks allow alcohol, but others don’t. However, you should always be responsible and follow the park rules about alcohol consumption.
4. What are the best picnic spots in Austin?
Austin has a lot of beautiful picnic spots, such as Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, Congress Avenue Bridge, and Mount Bonnell.
5. Is there any picnic area in Austin that has a lake?
Yes, there are several parks with lakes in Austin, such as Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, and Emma Long Metropolitan Park. You can also rent a boat or a kayak to enjoy the lake.
6. Can I have a barbecue in Austin picnic spots?
Yes, you can. However, you should check with the park rules about the type of grill allowed and the location of the grill.
7. Are there any picnic spots in Austin with playgrounds for kids?
Yes, there are several parks with playgrounds in Austin, such as Zilker Park, Mueller Lake Park, and Northwest District Park.
8. What are the most romantic picnic spots in Austin?
If you’re looking for a romantic picnic spot in Austin, you can visit Mount Bonnell, Mayfield Park and Preserve, or the Umlauf Sculpture Garden.
9. Can I swim in the rivers in Austin parks?
Yes, you can swim in some of the rivers in Austin parks, such as the Barton Creek Greenbelt and the San Marcos River. However, you should check with the park rules about the water quality and the safety of swimming.
10. What is the best time of the day to have a picnic in Austin?
The best time of the day to have a picnic in Austin is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. You can also have a picnic during sunset for a beautiful view.
11. Are there any picnic spots in Austin with BBQ restaurants nearby?
Yes, there are several parks in Austin that are located near BBQ restaurants, such as Franklin Barbecue and Terry Black’s BBQ near Zilker Park.
12. Is there any Austin picnic spot with a scenic view of the city skyline?
Yes, you can visit the Mount Bonnell, Zilker Park, or the Congress Avenue Bridge for a scenic view of the Austin skyline.
13. What should I bring for a picnic in Austin?
You should bring a picnic blanket or chairs, food and drinks, utensils, napkins, sunscreen, insect repellent, and extra layers of clothing.
14. Are there any picnic spots in Austin with hiking trails?
Yes, there are several parks in Austin with hiking trails, such as the Barton Creek Greenbelt, Mount Bonnell, and the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve.
15. Can I fish in the lakes in Austin parks?
Yes, you can fish in some of the lakes in Austin parks, such as Lady Bird Lake and Lake Austin. However, you should check with the park rules about the fishing license and the fishing season.
16. Are the Austin picnic spots wheelchair accessible?
Yes, most of the Austin parks are wheelchair accessible. However, you should check with the park rules about the accessibility of the picnic areas and the trails.
17. What are the rules about littering in Austin parks?
You should always pack out your trash and dispose of it properly in the trash cans or recycling bins. Littering is not allowed in Austin parks and can result in a fine.
18. Can I have a bonfire in Austin picnic spots?
No, you can’t have a bonfire in Austin parks. However, you can have a small portable grill or a propane stove.
19. Are there any picnic spots in Austin with art installations?
Yes, you can visit the Umlauf Sculpture Garden, Laguna Gloria, and the Waller Creek Conservancy for art installations and sculptures.
20. Is there any Austin picnic spot with a waterfall?
Yes, you can visit the Hamilton Pool Preserve or the Sculpture Falls in the Barton Creek Greenbelt for a beautiful waterfall.
21. What are some family-friendly picnic spots in Austin?
Some of the family-friendly picnic spots in Austin are Zilker Park, the Austin Nature and Science Center, and the Austin Zoo.
22. Is there any Austin picnic spot with a historic landmark?
Yes, you can visit the Texas State Capitol, the Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue, or the Treaty Oak for a historic landmark.
Some of the hidden picnic spots in Austin are Secret Beach, the Sculpture Falls in the Barton Creek Greenbelt, and the Bull Creek District Park.
24. Can I play frisbee or ball games in Austin parks?
Yes, you can play frisbee or ball games in most of the Austin parks. However, you should check with the park rules about the designated areas for playing.
25. Are there any Austin picnic spots with free admission?
Most of the Austin parks have free admission. However, some parks with special amenities or events may require a fee or a reservation.
If you’re looking for some outdoor relaxation in Austin, be sure to check out these picnic spots that showcase the city’s beautiful parks and lakes.
Until Our Next Picnic, Kind Reader
And with that, we reach the end of our journey through Austin’s best picnic spots. We hope you enjoyed reading our recommendations and that they inspire you to pack a basket, grab your favorite people, and head out to enjoy the wonderful outdoor spaces Austin has to offer. Remember, picnics are not only about the food, but also about the moments shared with loved ones. We encourage you to come back and explore our wonderful city again soon, as our parks and green areas are always changing and evolving. Thank you for joining us today, Kind Reader, and until our next picnic, happy adventuring!
