Discover Serenity at Waterloo Park
Experience the beauty and community spirit of Waterloo Park, an urban oasis in Austin, Texas, perfect for relaxation and cultural events.
Waterloo Park is a lush urban oasis nestled in the heart of Austin, Texas, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant community activities. Ideal for tourists looking to unwind, this park features winding trails, picturesque gardens, and ample green spaces for picnics and outdoor gatherings. With events hosted throughout the year, visitors can immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying the serene surroundings.
A brief summary to Waterloo Park
- 500 E 12th St, Austin, Downtown Austin, Texas, 78701, 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
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience and cooler temperatures.
- Check the park's event calendar online to catch local festivals or concerts during your visit.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy lunch in one of the many green spaces.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and art installations throughout the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the park features several winding trails to explore.
Getting There
-
Car
Start by exiting McKinney Falls State Park through the main entrance. Head northwest on McKinney Falls Parkway toward US-183 N. Merge onto US-183 N and continue for about 8 miles. Take the exit toward I-35 N/Austin. Merge onto I-35 N and keep driving for approximately 5 miles. Take the exit for 12th St and turn left onto E 12th St. Continue for about 1 mile, and Waterloo Park will be on your right at 500 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78701. Please note that parking in the area may incur fees, so be prepared for potential costs.
-
Public Transportation
From McKinney Falls State Park, you will first need to arrange for some form of transportation (like a taxi or rideshare service) to the nearest public transit stop, which is at the intersection of 183 and 71. From there, you can catch a Capital Metro bus heading towards downtown Austin. Make sure to check the bus schedule and routes in advance to find the right line that will take you to downtown Austin. Disembark at the stop nearest E 12th St, then walk about 5 minutes to reach Waterloo Park at 500 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78701. Note that a fare may be required for the bus ride.
Discover more about Waterloo Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Price of Liberty
0.2 km
Discover The Price of Liberty in Austin, a captivating war memorial honoring sacrifices for freedom amidst the city's vibrant historical landscape.
SEYMOUR LIPTON, CATACOMBS - sculpture, UT Landmarks
0.3 km
Discover the unique artistic expression of Seymour Lipton in the mesmerizing catacombs at the University of Texas, a hidden gem in Austin's cultural scene.
Hood's Confederate Texas Brigade Monument
0.3 km
Explore the Hood's Confederate Texas Brigade Monument, a poignant historical landmark in downtown Austin, honoring the bravery of Texas soldiers during the Civil War.
Texas Capitol Vietnam Veterans Monument
0.4 km
Discover the Texas Capitol Vietnam Veterans Monument - a poignant tribute to courage and sacrifice in the heart of Austin, Texas.
Terry's Texas Rangers Monument
0.4 km
Explore the rich history of the Civil War at Terry's Texas Rangers Monument, a symbol of bravery in the heart of Austin, Texas.
Volunteer Firemen Monument
0.4 km
Explore the Volunteer Firemen Monument in Austin, Texas, a poignant tribute to bravery, community, and the spirit of volunteer firefighting.
Ten Commandments Monument
0.5 km
Explore the Ten Commandments Monument in Austin, a significant historical landmark reflecting Texas's cultural and legal heritage amidst the Capitol's grandeur.
Texas Historical Commission (Gethsemane Church)
0.6 km
Explore the historical significance and architectural beauty of Gethsemane Church, a landmark that encapsulates Austin's rich cultural heritage.
Central Presbyterian Church
0.6 km
Discover tranquility at Central Presbyterian Church, an architectural treasure and spiritual haven in the heart of Austin, Texas.
Texas Historical Commission
0.6 km
Explore Texas's rich history at the Texas Historical Commission, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and knowledgeable staff.
Wahrenberger House
0.7 km
Explore the historical charm of the Wahrenberger House in Downtown Austin, a treasured landmark reflecting the city's rich 1800s heritage.
Gold Star Mothers Memorial
0.7 km
Visit the Gold Star Mothers Memorial in Austin, Texas, a touching tribute honoring mothers who have lost children in military service, surrounded by vibrant city life.
Houghton Carriage House
0.8 km
Discover the historical elegance of Houghton Carriage House, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Downtown Austin, Texas.
Historic Old U.S. Courthouse
0.8 km
Discover the grandeur of the Historic Old U.S. Courthouse in Austin, Texas, a landmark that embodies rich history and stunning architecture.
Austin
0.9 km
Discover Austin's historical treasures, where rich heritage meets vibrant culture in the heart of Texas.
Unmissable attractions to see
Texas Capitol Visitors Center
0.3 km
Explore the Texas Capitol Visitors Center: A historical hub showcasing Texas's vibrant culture and offering captivating tours of the iconic Capitol.
Texas Capitol
0.4 km
Explore the Texas Capitol in Austin: A stunning historical landmark and government hub with rich history and breathtaking architecture.
Saint Mary Catholic Cathedral
0.5 km
Discover the serenity and architectural beauty of Saint Mary Catholic Cathedral, a must-see spiritual landmark in the heart of Austin.
Texas African American History Memorial
0.5 km
Explore the Texas African American History Memorial in Austin, a tribute to the rich heritage and contributions of African Americans in Texas history.
Old Bakery and Emporium
0.6 km
Explore the Old Bakery and Emporium, a historic site in downtown Austin, showcasing local artisans and delicious baked goods amidst rich Texan heritage.
Texas Governor's Mansion
0.7 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Texas Governor's Mansion, a historic landmark in the heart of Austin, Texas.
Texas Music Museum
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant musical heritage of Texas at the Texas Music Museum, where history and melodies come to life.
Segway Nation Tours
0.7 km
Experience the essence of Austin on a Segway tour, exploring iconic landmarks and local culture in an eco-friendly and fun way.
The Paramount Theatre
0.8 km
Experience the charm of The Paramount Theatre, a historic performing arts venue in Austin, Texas, hosting films, concerts, and live performances.
Museum of the Weird
0.8 km
Discover the eccentric and bizarre at Austin's Museum of the Weird, where unusual artifacts and oddities await your exploration.
Firehouse Lounge
0.8 km
Experience the essence of Austin at Firehouse Lounge, where craft cocktails meet live music in a cozy setting.
Cheers Shot Bar
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Cheers Shot Bar, a lively destination for drinks, fun, and unforgettable memories on 6th Street.
Bullock Texas State History Museum
0.8 km
Explore Texas's captivating history at the Bullock Texas State History Museum, a must-visit destination for all travelers exploring Austin's rich culture.
Buck Wild
0.8 km
Discover Buck Wild, the ultimate bar in Downtown Austin, known for its lively atmosphere, delicious drinks, and unforgettable nightlife experience.
Republic of Texas Museum
0.8 km
Explore Texas history at the Republic of Texas Museum in Austin, showcasing artifacts and engaging exhibits for all ages, a true cultural gem.
Essential places to dine
Roaring Fork
0.8 km
Experience upscale American dining at Roaring Fork in Downtown Austin - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Upstairs at Caroline
0.8 km
Discover Upstairs at Caroline: A vibrant American restaurant and bar in Downtown Austin offering fresh cuisine and crafted cocktails.
Caroline
0.8 km
Discover the best of American cuisine and artisanal coffee at Caroline in Downtown Austin – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Stella San Jac
0.9 km
Discover Stella San Jac: A premier American restaurant in Downtown Austin offering delicious dishes and craft drinks in a lively setting.
Diner Bar - Seafood Bistro & Lounge
0.9 km
Experience the best seafood dining in Downtown Austin at Diner Bar - where fresh flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Eddie V's Prime Seafood
0.9 km
Experience fine dining at Eddie V's Prime Seafood in Downtown Austin - where fresh seafood meets live jazz in an elegant setting.
The Carillon
1.0 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine at The Carillon in Austin—where fine dining meets local flavors in an elegant setting.
Lonesome Dove Austin
1.0 km
Experience innovative Western cuisine at Lonesome Dove Austin - where rustic charm meets culinary excellence in downtown's vibrant heart.
Olamaie
1.0 km
Discover Olamaie in Austin for an unforgettable dining experience featuring innovative Southern cuisine and a charming atmosphere.
Moonshine Grill
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Southern cuisine at Moonshine Grill in Downtown Austin - where every meal tells a story.
Swift's Attic
1.1 km
Discover Swift's Attic: A vibrant American restaurant in Downtown Austin offering eclectic tapas and artisanal cocktails for an unforgettable dining experience.
Acre 41
1.2 km
Discover Acre 41: Where Culinary Excellence Meets Austin's Vibrant Atmosphere.
Péché
1.2 km
Experience the essence of French cuisine at Péché, where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance in Downtown Austin.
Buenos Aires Café
1.2 km
Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at Buenos Aires Café in Austin – where every bite takes you on a flavorful journey through South America.
Red Ash
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Red Ash in Downtown Austin - where tradition meets modern elegance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Texas Capitol Gift Shop
0.4 km
Explore a treasure trove of Texan souvenirs and artisanal crafts at the Texas Capitol Gift Shop, located in the heart of Austin.
Lucky Lizard Curios & Gifts
0.8 km
Explore a vibrant collection of unique gifts and souvenirs at Lucky Lizard Curios & Gifts in downtown Austin, Texas.
Scruffy’s Souvenirs & Food Mart
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts, local snacks, and craft beers at Scruffy’s Souvenirs & Food Mart in vibrant Downtown Austin, the perfect stop for every traveler.
Wild About Music
0.8 km
Explore Wild About Music, Austin's vibrant gift shop and art gallery, showcasing unique musical treasures and local artistry.
lovecraft
0.9 km
Explore Lovecraft, a unique women's clothing store in East Austin, featuring vintage fashion and sustainable styles that celebrate individuality.
6th Street Trading Company
0.9 km
Explore the heart of Austin's culture at 6th Street Trading Company, your go-to souvenir store for unique local treasures.
Charm School Vintage
0.9 km
Discover unique vintage clothing at Charm School Vintage in East Austin, where every piece has a story and sustainability meets style.
take heart
1.1 km
Explore Take Heart, East Austin's boutique for unique home goods and gifts that celebrate local craftsmanship and creativity.
The Singing Ox
1.4 km
Explore The Singing Ox in Austin for unique home goods that reflect local artistry and creativity, perfect for every home and occasion.
Second Street Boutique
1.4 km
Discover unique gifts, chic women's fashion, and local beauty products at Second Street Boutique, a gem in the heart of Downtown Austin.
francesca's
1.4 km
Discover unique fashion and gifts at Francesca's, a charming boutique in Downtown Austin, Texas, where style meets personal service.
Urban Outfitters
1.4 km
Discover unique fashion, accessories, and home goods at Urban Outfitters, a trendy shopping destination in the heart of Austin.
Austin Rocks
1.5 km
Explore the charm of Austin at Austin Rocks, your destination for unique gifts and local fashion in the heart of Downtown.
2nd Street District
1.5 km
Explore the eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and events in the 2nd Street District, Austin's vibrant downtown shopping destination.
Joy
1.6 km
Discover Joy, a charming gift shop in Old West Austin, offering unique treasures and local artistry that capture the spirit of Texas.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Higher Ground
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Higher Ground, your go-to cocktail bar, dance club, and live music venue in the heart of Downtown.
Small Victory
0.8 km
Discover Small Victory, a stylish cocktail bar in Downtown Austin, offering creative drinks and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
Here Nor There
0.8 km
Discover Here Nor There, a premier cocktail bar in Downtown Austin, where mixology meets vibrant nightlife and unforgettable experiences await.
The Library Bar
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Library Bar in Downtown Austin, featuring craft cocktails and a chic ambiance perfect for any evening out.
Nickel City
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Nickel City, an inclusive bar in East Austin serving unique cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Garage
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Garage Cocktail Bar, a hidden gem known for its innovative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
Shangri-La
1.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Shangri-La, a hidden gem in Austin's nightlife, known for its creative cocktails and welcoming vibe.
The Roosevelt Room
1.2 km
Discover The Roosevelt Room, Austin’s premier cocktail bar, where mixology meets sophistication in an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Devil May Care
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Devil May Care, a premier lounge in Downtown Austin with innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
Foxy's Proper Pub
1.2 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Foxy's Proper Pub in Downtown Austin, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere for all.
Key Bar
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin at Key Bar, a cocktail haven and event venue that perfectly captures the city's spirit.
Kung Fu Saloon
1.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of craft cocktails, arcade games, and a whimsical atmosphere at Kung Fu Saloon in Austin's vibrant West End.
Full Circle Bar
1.5 km
Discover Full Circle Bar in East Austin, where vibrant nightlife meets local charm with craft drinks and fun activities.
King Bee
1.6 km
Discover King Bee: A lively cocktail bar in East Austin, blending expertly crafted drinks with vibrant live music for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Half Step
1.7 km
Discover Half Step, Austin's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks meet live music in a vibrant atmosphere on Rainey Street.
