Kind reader, if you’re in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas and looking to enjoy a beautiful day out with your loved ones, then you’re in luck! This city has some of the best picnic spots in Austin that are perfect for a relaxing and fun day out in nature. From quiet parks to lakeside picnic spots, Austin has something to offer for everyone. So pack your picnic basket, grab your picnic blanket, and let’s explore some of the best picnic spots in Austin!
Best Picnic Spots in Austin for Families
Austin is a city that loves its outdoor spaces, and a picnic is the perfect way to enjoy one of Austin’s beautiful parks. In this section, we will highlight the best picnic spots in Austin for families. When choosing a picnic spot for your family, it’s important to keep in mind accessibility, shade, and amenities.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker Metropolitan Park is a 350-acre park located in the heart of Austin. The park features a playground, walking trails, and a nature center. The park is perfect for families with young children, as there are plenty of shady spots to escape the heat and a large playground. You can also rent kayaks or canoes from the park to take on the nearby Barton Creek.
Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake is a beautiful spot for a family picnic. The lake is surrounded by a 10-mile trail that is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. There are many picnic tables and grills located around the lake, so you can enjoy a meal while taking in the views. The lake is also a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Pease Park
Pease Park is a 42-acre park located in central Austin. The park features a playground, picnic areas, and a splash pad for kids to cool off in during the hot summer months. The park also has a dog park and a disc golf course.
| No | Park Name | Features | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zilker Metropolitan Park | Playground, walking trails, nature center | 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704 |
| 2 | Lady Bird Lake | Picnic tables, grills, 10-mile trail | 1835 Waller St, Austin, TX 78702 |
| 3 | Pease Park | Playground, picnic areas, splash pad | 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX 78705 |
Best Picnic Spots in Austin with Scenic Views
One of the best things about having a picnic in Austin is the beautiful scenery. In this section, we will highlight the best picnic spots in Austin with scenic views. These spots offer the perfect setting for a romantic date or a peaceful afternoon with friends.
Mt. Bonnell
Mt. Bonnell is the highest point in Austin and offers stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Austin. There are picnic tables located at the top of the mountain, or you can spread a blanket and enjoy the view from the grassy areas.
St. Edward’s Park
St. Edward’s Park is located on the outskirts of Austin and offers breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country. The park features hiking trails and a creek for swimming, as well as shaded picnic areas with grills.
The Oasis
The Oasis is a restaurant located on Lake Travis that offers some of the most beautiful sunset views in Austin. While the restaurant is a bit pricey, you can also pack a picnic and enjoy the view from the outdoor seating area.
| No | Park Name | Features | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mt. Bonnell | Picnic tables, stunning views | 3800 Mount Bonnell Dr, Austin, TX 78731 |
| 2 | St. Edward’s Park | Hiking trails, creek, shaded picnic areas | 7301 Spicewood Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78759 |
| 3 | The Oasis | Beautiful sunset views, outdoor seating area | 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732 |
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker Metropolitan Park is the most popular park in Austin and is the perfect place for a picnic with family or friends. This park offers something for everyone, including hiking trails, bike rentals, jogging trails, disc golf, swimming and kayaking. The park is situated on the banks of the Colorado River and has plenty of grassy areas for picnicking. There are also plenty of picnic tables and grills scattered around the park for visitors to use.
Details about Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker Metropolitan Park spans over 351 acres and has several picnic areas to choose from, including the Great Lawn, the Hillside Theatre, and the Picnic Loop. The Great Lawn is the largest picnic area in the park and is perfect for large groups. The Hillside Theatre is a grassy amphitheater that is perfect for picnics while watching a live concert or theatre production. The Picnic Loop is a quieter, more secluded picnic area that is located near the Nature and Science Center.
What to do at Zilker Metropolitan Park
- Explore the hiking trails and scenic views
- Rent a bike or bring your own bike to enjoy the trails
- Take a dip in the refreshing waters of Barton Springs Pool
- Go Kayaking or paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake
- Enjoy a picnic with your loved ones in a serene environment
| No | Important Notes |
|---|---|
| 1 | The park is generally crowded on weekends and holidays so plan accordingly |
| 2 | Dogs are allowed in the park but must be on a leash at all times |
| 3 | There is no entry fee to the park, but certain attractions like Barton Springs Pool have an admission fee |
Lake Austin
Lake Austin is a breathtakingly beautiful spot for a picnic that offers stunning views of the city skyline. The lake is a part of the Colorado River and is situated in the west of the city. The natural beauty of the lake combined with the spectacular scenery make it the perfect spot to relax and unwind with friends or family.
Details about Lake Austin
Lake Austin is primarily used for recreational purposes, including boating, swimming, and fishing. The lake is approximately 21 miles long and has several scenic spots for picnics. Some of the popular picnic spots include Turkey Creek Trailhead, Emma Long Metropolitan Park, and Red Bud Trail.
What to do at Lake Austin
- Pack a picnic lunch and relax by the lake
- Go fishing or rent a boat to explore the lake
- Swim in the cool waters of the lake
- Take a hike along the Turkey Creek Trailhead, which is known for its beautiful scenery
Lake Austin is a great spot for those who want to escape from the busy city life and enjoy a day in nature.
| No | Important Notes |
|---|---|
| 1 | There are several boat rental services available on the lake for visitors to rent |
| 2 | Dogs are allowed in some parts of the park but must be on a leash at all times |
| 3 | Swimming in certain areas of the lake may be prohibited due to safety concerns. |
| No | Picnic Spot | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zilker Park | 2100 Barton Springs Rd | Large green space, hiking trails, swimming pool, botanical garden, kayaking |
| 2 | Lady Bird Lake | South Congress Ave | Hiking and biking trails, canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding |
| 3 | Mayfield Park and Preserve | 3505 W 35th St | Ponds, peacocks, walking trails, historic cottage, gardens |
| 4 | Emma Long Metropolitan Park | 1600 City Park Rd | Picnic areas, swimming area, camping, boat ramp, fishing |
| 5 | Barton Springs Pool | 2131 William Barton Dr | Natural spring-fed pool, grassy areas for picnicking, diving board |
Mayfield Park and Preserve
If you are a fan of peacocks, Mayfield Park and Preserve is the perfect spot to relax and have a picnic while admiring the beautiful birds. This park is home to more than 20 peacocks that roam freely throughout the area. Aside from peacock-watching, you can also stroll around the well-manicured gardens, which are especially beautiful in the spring when the wildflowers are blooming.
Peacock Watching
The peacocks are the star of the show at Mayfield Park and Preserve, so make sure you find a spot where you can watch them strut their stuff. The peacocks here are especially famous for displaying their feathers during mating season, which usually happens in the spring.
Exploring the Gardens
Mayfield Park and Preserve features several gardens that are all worth exploring. The largest of these is the historic cottage garden, which is filled with a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers. You can also take a walk through the nature trail, which winds through the woods and along the creek.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
If you are looking for a picnic spot that has something for everyone, Zilker Metropolitan Park is the place to be. This 350-acre park is one of the most popular in Austin and features a variety of attractions, including a botanical garden, a nature and science center, and a swimming hole.
Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is a spring-fed pool that is open year-round and is a popular destination for swimmers. The water stays at a constant temperature of around 68 degrees, making it the perfect place to cool off during the hot Texas summers.
Botanical Garden
The Zilker Botanical Garden is a beautiful place to explore with over 26 acres of gardens and trails. The garden boasts a variety of plants, including cacti, roses, and herbs, as well as several water features and sculptures.
Zilker Park
Zilker Park is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and picnicking. It is situated in the heart of Austin, Texas, and it covers over 350 acres of land. The park has a lot of picnic tables and grills, and it also allows visitors to bring their own portable grills. Moreover, the park is home to a lot of music festivals such as Austin City Limits and the Blues on the Green.
Cottonwood Shores
The Cottonwood Shores is one of the most popular spots for a picnic in Zilker Park. It has a lot of tables and grills, and it is adjacent to the Colorado River. Visitors can enjoy the scenic view of the river while having a picnic and engage in various water activities such as boating, swimming, and kayaking.
Giant Chess Board
Zilker Park is also home to a giant outdoor chess board. It is located between the Barton Springs Pool and the playground, which is a great spot for a vibrant and energetic picnic. Visitors can enjoy a nice game of chess while having a picnic or sit and watch as other people play.
Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is a popular natural swimming pool located in Zilker Park, Austin. The pool is fed from underground springs, which keep the water temperature quite low. It is the perfect spot to have a refreshing swim on a hot summer day. It is surrounded by large trees and rolling hills, which offers a calming and relaxing environment for picnicking.
Shade Trees
There is an abundance of shade trees surrounding the pool area, which provides a great escape from the Texas sun. Visitors can relax under the shade of the trees, have a picnic, and enjoy the cool breeze.
Boardwalk
Barton Springs Pool also has a boardwalk that runs around the pool area. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, have a picnic and enjoy the beautiful view of the pool and surrounding hills.
Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Emma Long is one of the best picnic spots that Austin has to offer. It is situated at the edge of the city on Lake Austin and is around 1,150 acres of land space that is primarily used for camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and swimming. This park has tons of shaded picnic tables and serves as an ideal spot for having barbecues and bonfires.
Picnicking at Emma Long Metropolitan Park
The picnic areas are large and are shaded with hardwood trees, with each having tables and grills that are spread throughout the park. Some popular picnic tables are at the Lakeshore Day Use, Turkey Creek picnic area, and the North Turkey Creek picnic area. Visitors can also have their own portable grills and use them in any designated picnic area if they prefer.
Camping at Emma Long Metropolitan Park
This park has always been favourite among campers, and you can choose from 65 sites to camp at, which include fire rings and picnic tables. The camper can bring their pet along, but the park has a specific area set up where dogs can swim, play, socialize, and roam free.
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve offers an attractive and serene environment to have a romantic picnic or to enjoy quality time with family and friends. It features plenty of picnic tables, beautiful gardens adorned with lilies and other flowers, and peacocks roaming free.
Peacocks at Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
Peacocks are a highlight of the park and are friendly and accustomed to people taking selfies and petting them. Visitors should note that the peacocks at the nature preserve are wild and shouldn’t be fed human food or interrupted while they’re mating during the breeding season, which goes from February through July.
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve Gardens
The gardens at the Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve feature native Central Texas environment plants and other plants, including exotic species. It is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy a day out while viewing the beautiful fountains, ponds, and falls.
Campbell’s Hole
Campbell’s Hole is a hidden gem offering a secluded spot for a picnic near downtown Austin. This spot is located in the heart of Barton Creek Greenbelt. The natural pool formed by the Barton Creek is the main attraction here. The clear blue water and ample shade make it an ideal spot for a picnic with family and friends.
Activities in Campbell’s Hole
Campbell’s Hole is a nature lover’s paradise. The spot provides the perfect opportunity for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The rushing stream that feeds the natural pool is also ideal for wading.
Tips to remember before visiting Campbell’s Hole
1. Campbell’s Hole can get busy, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early if possible.
2. Parking can be a challenge, so consider carpooling or using alternate transportation.
3. Bring appropriate footwear, as the area can be steep and rocky.
4. All visitors must pack out what they bring in and dispose of trash properly.
Red Bud Isle
Red Bud Isle is another unique picnic spot in Austin, located in the heart of Lady Bird Lake. This small island provides ample space underneath towering cypress trees to enjoy a picnic with the family. What makes this spot unique is that it is a designated off-leash dog park. This allows dog owners to bring their furry friends along for the picnic.
Fun activities in Red Bud Isle
Besides enjoying a picnic, visitors can take advantage of other fun activities, such as kayaking or paddleboarding. Dogs can take a dip in the lake or take a hike around the island with their owners.
Advice before visiting Red Bud Isle
1. Bring picnic supplies and be aware that there are no trash receptacles on the island.
2. Insect repellent is recommended, as the island is a natural habitat for mosquitoes.
3. The parking lot can fill up fast, so plan accordingly.
4. Always make sure dogs are up to date on vaccines and keep them on a leash when not in the designated off-leash area.
Peaceful Places for Picnicking in Austin
If you’re looking for a peaceful and tranquil spot for your picnic, then there are places in Austin that you can check out. So grab a book, pack a blanket, and head out to one of these peaceful places for a perfect picnic.
Zilker Botanical Garden
The Zilker Botanical Garden is a popular spot for visitors and residents alike who want to relax, enjoy a scenic view, and have a nice picnic. This 26-acre garden has plenty of beautiful plants and flowers, as well as koi ponds, streams, and waterfalls that are sure to fascinate every nature lover.
The highlight of this park is the Isamu Taniguchi Japanese Garden, where there are several traditional Japanese structures and vibrant flora that you can explore. You can also have picnics here while admiring the Japanese garden, making it an ideal spot for a romantic date, family gathering, or a peaceful solo picnic.
Waller Creek Park
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city but still want to stay close to downtown, the Waller Creek Park is the perfect place for you. It is a 1.5-mile stretch of parkland that winds through the eastern edge of downtown, giving visitors a welcome break from the busy streets and tall buildings.
When it comes to picnicking here, there are several peaceful spots to choose from, including open lawns, shaded pavilions, and benches overlooking the creek. Also, it is worth noting that their serene ambiance makes it a perfect place for yoga lovers to practice their moves, and for writers to get inspiration and write their masterpiece novel.
| No | Peaceful Places for Picnicking in Austin |
|---|---|
| 1 | Zilker Botanical Garden |
| 2 | Waller Creek Park |
Best Picnic Spots in Austin
Discover the best places to have a picnic in Austin
1. What are some of the best picnic spots in Austin?
You can try Zilker Park, Mount Bonnell, Mayfield Park and Preserve, and Barton Creek Greenbelt, among others.
2. Can I reserve a picnic spot at a park in Austin?
Yes, you can reserve picnic areas at some Austin parks, such as Zilker Park and Emma Long Metropolitan Park. Check the park’s website for reservation information.
3. Are there any restrictions on food and drinks at Austin parks?
Yes, some parks may have restrictions on alcoholic beverages, glass containers, or fire pits. Make sure to read the park’s rules and regulations.
4. Is it allowed to bring pets to the picnic areas?
Most parks in Austin allow pets, but they must be on a leash and under control at all times. Also, make sure to clean up after your pet.
5. What are some family-friendly picnic spots in Austin?
You can check out Mueller Lake Park, Little Stacy Park, or Pease Park, which all have playgrounds and plenty of space for kids to run around.
6. Can I have a barbeque or grill at an Austin park?
Yes, some parks allow you to bring your own grill, but you must follow safety guidelines and clean up after yourself.
7. Are there any picnic areas with shade in Austin?
Yes, some parks have shaded picnic areas, such as Emma Long Metropolitan Park, Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, and Mary Elizabeth Branch Park.
8. What time do parks close in Austin?
Most Austin parks close at sunset, but some may have different hours. Check the park’s website for specific closing times.
9. What is the best time of day to have a picnic in Austin?
Early morning or late afternoon are good times to have a picnic in Austin, especially during the hot summer months. You can also enjoy a sunset picnic in the evening.
10. Are there any picnic spots with a view in Austin?
Yes, Mount Bonnell and the 360 Overlook offer scenic views of the city. You can also picnic by Lady Bird Lake for a view of the skyline.
11. Is it safe to swim in the lakes or creeks near picnic spots in Austin?
Swimming is allowed in some lakes and creeks near picnic spots in Austin, but be aware of any warning signs or hazards, such as strong currents or bacteria levels.
12. What should I bring to a picnic in Austin?
You can bring a picnic blanket, sunscreen, bug spray, water, food, drinks, utensils, and cups. You may also want to bring games or activities to enjoy during your picnic.
13. Can I rent a pavilion or shelter for a picnic in Austin?
Yes, some parks in Austin offer rental of pavilions or shelters for group picnics. Check the park’s website for more information.
14. What are some romantic picnic spots in Austin?
You can try the Laguna Gloria Museum, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum, or the Butler Park Pitch and Putt for a romantic picnic experience.
15. Are there any accessible picnic spots in Austin?
Yes, some parks in Austin have accessible picnic areas, such as Zilker Park and Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park. Check the park’s website for accessibility information.
16. Can I bring my own music to a picnic in Austin?
Yes, you can bring portable speakers or a radio to listen to music during your picnic, but be considerate of other park visitors.
17. What are some secluded picnic spots in Austin?
You can try Red Bud Isle, Northeast Metropolitan Park, or St. Edward’s Park for a quieter picnic experience.
18. Can I have a picnic in downtown Austin?
Yes, there are several parks and green spaces in downtown Austin, such as Republic Square, Waterloo Park, and the Waller Creek Conservancy.
19. What are some picnic spots with hiking trails in Austin?
You can check out McKinney Falls State Park, Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park, and the Barton Creek Greenbelt for hiking and picnicking.
20. Are there any picnic spots with waterfalls in Austin?
You can try Sculpture Falls in the Barton Creek Greenbelt or Twin Falls in the Bull Creek Greenbelt for a picnic near a waterfall.
21. What are some picnic spots with public restrooms in Austin?
You can find public restrooms at some parks in Austin, such as Zilker Park, Pease Park, and Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Park.
22. Can I have a picnic at a winery in Austin?
Yes, several wineries in the Austin area offer picnic areas or outdoor seating, such as Fall Creek Vineyards, Duchman Family Winery, and Driftwood Estate Winery.
23. What are some picnic spots with bike trails in Austin?
You can try Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, Brushy Creek Regional Trail, or Southern Walnut Creek Trail for a picnic and bike ride.
24. Can I have a picnic at a food truck park in Austin?
Yes, Austin has several food truck parks with picnic tables, such as The Picnic and The Little Darlin’.
25. Where can I find more information about picnic spots in Austin?
You can visit the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department website or the Austin Parks Foundation website for more information about picnic spots in Austin.
Looking for the best picnic spots in Austin? Check out our list of suggestions, including Austin picnic spots that offer everything from beautiful nature views to fun activities for the whole family.
Happy Picnicking, Kind Reader!
I hope this article has provided you with some helpful ideas for your next picnic outing in Austin. Whether you’re looking for scenic views or a peaceful atmosphere, there is a perfect spot for everyone. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen and picnic essentials, and get ready to enjoy Austin’s beautiful outdoors. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back for more tips and ideas on exploring this wonderful city. Until next time, happy picnicking!
