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Austin, TX
Best Parks (Attractions & Activities)
(10 Overall Closest) |
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Barton Springs Pool |
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(Attractions & Activities - Parks) |
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2101 Barton Springs Rd Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin 78704 • 512-974-9331 |
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Description:
BARTON SPRINGS DISTRICT. 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 Springs. Schedules vary, but usually there are lifeguards on duty between 9am-6pm. The pool closes for two weeks in early March for spring cleaning. |
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Bastrop State Park |
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(Attractions & Activities - Parks) |
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Texas Hwy 21 1½ miles east of Bastrop, Bastrop 78602 • 800-792-1112 |
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Description:
BASTROP. 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. |
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Hamilton Pool Preserve |
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(Attractions & Activities - Parks) |
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24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Austin 78738 • 512-264-2740 |
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Description:
WEST AUSTIN. 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 swimming and enjoying nature. Trails wind about the property, and native vegetation and wildlife are prominent. Picnic tables and restrooms are available, but other amenities are few, and restrictions apply as to what's permitted onto the property. Thirty miles southwest of Austin. |
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Hippie Hollow Park |
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(Attractions & Activities - Parks) |
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7000 Comanche Tr, Austin 78732 • 512-854-7275 |
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Description:
LAKE TRAVIS. Modesty is not an option at Texas's only clothing-optional public park. Throughout the 109 acres that skirt Lake Travis, open-minded visitors sunbathe, swim, hike, or even bird-watch (several species, including the golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped viero, are protected here under the Endangered Species Act). The gay and lesbian community hosts semi-annual festivals here as well. |
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McKinney Falls State Park |
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(Attractions & Activities - Parks) |
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5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin 78744 • 800-792-1112 |
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Description:
SOUTH AUSTIN. 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. |
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User Rating: 7 / 10
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Mount Bonnell |
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(Attractions & Activities - Parks) |
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3800 Mt. Bonnell Rd, Austin 78731 • 512-974-6700 |
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Description:
NORTH AUSTIN. 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. |
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Pease District Park |
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(Attractions & Activities - Parks) |
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1100 Kingsbury St, Austin • 512-499-6700 |
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Description:
NORTH AUSTIN. 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. |
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Shoal Creek Hike and Bike Trail |
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(Attractions & Activities - Parks) |
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2600 N Lamar Blvd Pease Park, Austin 78704 • 512-974-6700 |
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Description:
NORTH AUSTIN. 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. |
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The Veloway |
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(Attractions & Activities - Parks) |
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4103 Slaughter Ln Slaughter Creek Metropolitan Park, Austin 78739 • 512-974-6700 |
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Description:
SOUTH AUSTIN. Avid bicyclists and rollerbladers appreciate this space dedicated to wheels-only recreation. The 23-foot-wide paved path, winding through a secluded area of parkland sprinkled with wildflowers and other native growth, provides a safe environment that's perfect for listening to music and increasing your cardio capacity. |
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Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail |
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(Attractions & Activities - Parks) |
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1928 S Lakeshore Blvd Town Lake Park, Austin 78741 • 512-974-6700 |
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Description:
Austin's physically fit reputation is in full effect on the popular Hike and Bike Trail, a 10-mile loop of natural and urban splendor encircling picturesque Lady Bird Lake (aka the Colorado River) in the heart of downtown. From buff bikers to dog walkers to strolling slackers, Austin is well-represented on this busy, crunchy, and well-worn path. |
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