Explore the Serene Beauty of Zilker Nature Preserve
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Zilker Nature Preserve, an urban oasis in the heart of Austin, Texas, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Nestled in the heart of Austin, Zilker Nature Preserve offers a peaceful escape into nature. With its lush trails, historical landmarks, and vibrant wildlife, this preserve is a must-visit for any nature lover.
A brief summary to Zilker Nature Preserve
- 301 Nature Center Dr, Austin, Barton Creek Mall, 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
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and the chance to see wildlife.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated areas surrounded by nature.
- Don't forget your camera; this place is perfect for photography!
- Check out the historical plaques along the trails for a deeper understanding of the preserve's significance.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven in places.
Getting There
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Car
From McKinney Falls State Park, head northwest on McKinney Falls Parkway. Continue for about 3 miles until you reach the intersection with US-183. Merge onto US-183 North. After about 1 mile, take the exit toward TX-71 W. Continue on TX-71 W for approximately 4 miles. Take the exit for South Lamar Boulevard and turn left onto South Lamar Boulevard. After about 2 miles, turn right onto Barton Springs Road. Continue for about 1 mile, and then turn left onto Nature Center Drive. Zilker Nature Preserve will be on your right at 301 Nature Center Dr, Austin, TX 78746. Parking may incur a fee, so be prepared with cash or a card.
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Public Transportation
From McKinney Falls State Park, walk to the nearest bus stop (located at the entrance of the park). Take Capital Metro bus Route 20 toward Downtown. You will need to transfer to Route 30 at the Stop ID 3015 (South Congress and Riverside). Once on Route 30, continue until you reach the stop at Barton Springs and Lamar. From there, you will need to walk about 15 minutes to Zilker Nature Preserve. Head north on South Lamar Boulevard, then turn right onto Barton Springs Road and follow it until you reach Nature Center Drive. Please check the Capital Metro website for the latest schedules and fares.
Discover more about Zilker Nature Preserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Moonlight Tower - Zilker Park
0.6 km
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Stone Windmill
1.9 km
Experience the rustic charm of the Stone Windmill, a historical landmark in Austin, Texas, surrounded by scenic hiking and biking trails.
Haskell House
2.0 km
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Treaty Oak
2.0 km
Explore Treaty Oak, a historic landmark in Austin, Texas, representing over 500 years of resilience and cultural significance.
Treaty Oak Square
2.0 km
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Doug Sahm Hill Summit
2.3 km
Experience the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere at Doug Sahm Hill Summit, a scenic gem in Austin perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
Moonlight Tower
2.3 km
Explore the historic Moonlight Tower, a captivating landmark in Austin, Texas, showcasing the city's rich history and architectural beauty.
Wood Street Settlement At Shoal Creek
2.4 km
Experience the rich history and serene beauty of Wood Street Settlement at Shoal Creek, a captivating landmark in the heart of Austin.
Pease Mansion
2.5 km
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Robinson-Macken House
2.6 km
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Joseph and Mary Robinson Martin House
2.7 km
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Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo
2.8 km
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Space cowboy mural
2.8 km
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Moonlight Tower - 12th/Rio Grande
2.9 km
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Willie Nelson Statue
2.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Zilker Botanical Garden
0.4 km
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Austin Nature & Science Center
0.4 km
Discover the Wonders of Nature and Science at Austin Nature & Science Center - Engage, Explore, and Enjoy the Great Outdoors.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
0.4 km
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Botanical Gates of Paradise
0.5 km
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Barton Springs Municipal Pool
0.8 km
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The Rollingwood Sphere
0.9 km
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Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
1.2 km
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Mean Eyed Cat
1.2 km
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Lou Neff Point
1.4 km
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Barton Springs Bike Rental & Tours
1.5 km
Discover Austin’s beauty on two wheels with Barton Springs Bike Rental & Tours, your gateway to an unforgettable cycling adventure in Texas.
Austin River-Skyline View
1.7 km
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Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge
2.0 km
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Peter Pan Mini-Golf
2.1 km
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Sand Beach Park
2.1 km
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ATX Sign
2.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Jeffrey's
2.0 km
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Josephine House
2.0 km
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Eberly
2.1 km
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Odd Duck
2.2 km
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Ember Kitchen
2.3 km
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Wink Restaurant & Wine Bar
2.4 km
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Hestia
2.5 km
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The Peacock Mediterranean Grill
2.5 km
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The Guest House Austin
2.6 km
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Fixe Southern House
2.7 km
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North Italia
2.7 km
Experience authentic Northern and Southern Italian cuisine at North Italia in Austin's Seaholm District – perfect for families and food lovers!
Hula Hut
2.9 km
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Taverna Austin
2.9 km
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Péché
3.0 km
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Truluck's Ocean's Finest Seafood and Crab
3.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sfingiday
2.4 km
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Joy
2.5 km
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2nd Street District
2.7 km
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Bon Vivant Gift Boxes
2.8 km
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Austin Rocks
2.8 km
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Urban Outfitters
2.8 km
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The Singing Ox
2.9 km
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francesca's
2.9 km
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Second Street Boutique
3.0 km
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Devil’s Details Boutique
3.1 km
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Wild About Music
3.3 km
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Daughters
3.3 km
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Attic Salt
3.3 km
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Golden Mean
3.3 km
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Cove Boutique
3.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Deep Eddy Cabaret
1.0 km
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Gibson Street Bar
2.1 km
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Tiniest Bar In Texas
2.2 km
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Black Sheep Lodge
2.4 km
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Kung Fu Saloon
2.5 km
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Key Bar
2.6 km
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Devil May Care
2.8 km
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The Roosevelt Room
2.9 km
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Garage
3.1 km
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Higher Ground
3.2 km
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Foxy's Proper Pub
3.3 km
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Small Victory
3.3 km
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Here Nor There
3.3 km
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Equipment Room
3.3 km
Experience the eclectic charm of Equipment Room, a unique bar in Austin's South River City, perfect for drinks and vibrant nightlife.
White Tiger
3.4 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mayfair Austin
2.7 km
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Club Eternal
3.0 km
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The Continental Gallery
3.4 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at The Continental Gallery, a premier night club in Austin, Texas, where music and excitement await.
The Continental Club
3.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and live music scene at The Continental Club, Austin's iconic night club, perfect for unforgettable nights out.
Lit Lounge
3.4 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at Lit Lounge, a premier nightclub in Downtown Austin with a vibrant atmosphere and exceptional cocktails.
Antone's Nightclub
3.5 km
Discover the heart of Austin's nightlife at Antone's Nightclub, a legendary venue for live blues and vibrant cocktails.
Voodoo Room
3.6 km
Discover the heart of Austin's nightlife at Voodoo Room, where vibrant energy and unforgettable experiences await every night.
Mala Fama
3.6 km
Discover the electric nightlife of Austin at Mala Fama, a night club offering diverse music, energetic dance floors, and fast service in a vibrant atmosphere.
Cielo Nightclub
3.7 km
Cielo Nightclub: Dive into Austin's lively nightlife with great music, dancing, and unforgettable memories in the heart of Texas.
C-Boy's Heart & Soul
3.7 km
Explore Austin's vibrant nightlife at C-Boy's Heart & Soul, where live music meets a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Texas.
Kingdom
3.7 km
Experience the exhilarating nightlife at Kingdom, Austin's top nightclub, where unforgettable moments and electrifying music await every night.
Barbarella Austin
3.8 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at Barbarella Austin, a premier night club offering themed dance parties and vibrant music in downtown Austin.
Elysium
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Elysium, Austin's premier night club and live music venue in the heart of the Red River Cultural District.
The Cockpit
4.3 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of The Cockpit, a premier disco club in East Austin where music and dance come alive.
new night productions
4.4 km
Discover the pulsating energy and vibrant nightlife of Austin at New Night Productions, the city's premier destination for music and dance.
