Zilker Metropolitan Park: Austin's Urban Oasis
Discover the beauty and recreational wonders of Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin's expansive urban oasis with trails, gardens, and a lively atmosphere.
Zilker Metropolitan Park is one of Austin's most cherished landmarks, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities that cater to all ages. Spanning over 350 acres, this urban park is a sanctuary for nature lovers and active adventurers alike. Visitors can explore miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through lush greenery, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline. The park is also home to the renowned Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming pool that maintains a refreshing temperature year-round, attracting both locals and tourists seeking relief from the Texas heat. In addition to its natural attractions, Zilker Park hosts various events throughout the year, including the famous Austin City Limits Music Festival, which draws music lovers from all over the globe. Families can take advantage of the spacious picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields, making it a perfect spot for a day of fun and relaxation. The park's gardens, including the Zilker Botanical Garden, showcase a diverse array of plants and themed gardens that provide a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls. Whether you're looking to unwind with a book in the shade, engage in outdoor sports, or immerse yourself in Austin's vibrant cultural scene, Zilker Metropolitan Park is the ultimate destination that captures the essence of the city's outdoor lifestyle.
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and events.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots throughout the park.
- Don't miss the Barton Springs Pool for a refreshing swim on hot days.
- Check the park's event calendar for festivals and community events happening during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive trails and gardens.
A brief summary to Zilker Metropolitan Park
- Austin, Texas, 78746, US
- +1512-974-6700
- Visit website
- Monday 5 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 5 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 5 am-10 pm
- Thursday 5 am-10 pm
- Friday 5 am-10 pm
- Saturday 5 am-10 pm
- Sunday 5 am-10 pm
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Austin, you can catch the Capital Metro bus route 30 or 3 at any bus stop along Congress Ave. Make sure to board a bus heading towards Zilker Park. The bus will take you along South Lamar Boulevard, and you will want to disembark at the stop closest to the intersection of Barton Springs Road and South Lamar Boulevard. From there, walk east on Barton Springs Road until you reach the entrance of Zilker Metropolitan Park.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to bike, you can rent a bike from any of the many bike-sharing stations in downtown Austin. Head south on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, which runs along Lady Bird Lake. Follow the trail all the way to the park. Once you reach Zilker Park, you can park your bike at one of the designated bike racks near the entrance.
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Walking
If you are close to downtown, you can take a pleasant walk to Zilker Park. Start on South Congress Avenue and head south until you reach the intersection with Riverside Drive. From there, turn right onto Riverside Drive and continue until you reach the entrance to Zilker Metropolitan Park. This walk will take about 30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the city and the river.
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Rideshare
Another convenient option is to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply open the app and enter 'Zilker Metropolitan Park' or the address 'Austin, TX 78746' as your destination. The driver will drop you off at one of the park entrances, making it a hassle-free way to arrive.
Attractions Nearby to Zilker Metropolitan Park
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Zilker Botanical Garden
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Barton Springs Municipal Pool
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Zilker Nature Preserve
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Austin Nature & Science Center
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Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
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Lou Neff Point
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Austin River-Skyline View
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Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge
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Peter Pan Mini-Golf
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Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park
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Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue
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Republic Square
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Pease Park Treehouse
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Pease District Park
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Statesman Bat Observation Center
Landmarks nearby to Zilker Metropolitan Park
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Moonlight Tower - Zilker Park
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Treaty Oak
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Treaty Oak Square
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Doug Sahm Hill Summit
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Haskell House
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Wood Street Settlement At Shoal Creek
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Moonlight Tower
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Robinson-Macken House
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Willie Nelson Statue
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Space cowboy mural
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Pease Mansion
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John Bremond House
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Buford Tower & Kitchens Memorial Chimes
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Moonlight Tower - 12th/Rio Grande
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Bat Sculpture