Mount Bonnell is the quintessential Austin spot for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Austin,…read morethe surrounding hills, and some of the most impressive homes in the city. I usually visit here as a part of run club destination run as the sounding area is very hilly and a challenging running route. The best time to visit is around sunrise or sunset as the overlook provides plenty of opportunities for photos, whether you're capturing the water, the skyline in the distance, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country. The trail itself is relatively short and manageable, though there are a few stairs to navigate. Parking can be limited during peak times, so arriving early is a good idea. Despite its popularity, the atmosphere remains peaceful and makes for a great spot to relax, reflect, or bring out-of-town guests for a memorable Austin experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting Austin, Mount Bonnell is a must-see destination that showcases some of the best views the city has to offer.

Mount Bonnell was a place that we were told we really needed to go when we were visiting Austin…read more You get on top of the ridge (at least this is a ridge to me as I was born and raised and lived in mountain states where the mountains are quite large) and you can get a great view of downtown Austin with it's cityscape and then you can also get a good view of the Colorado River and the neighborhoods across the river which are quite nice. The terrain is rocky on top so watch your step and there are a fair amount of people up here enjoying the view as well. I am sure sunrises and sunsets are beautiful and very impressive. We walked for a ways and got a few different vantage points of the views so if you are able to do that I definitely recommend doing so. It's a great place and indeed a place to go when visiting. The locals enjoy it too!

Such a pleasant park. Perfect for a stroll around the lake. Stroller-friendly…read more Plenty of benches as well as grassy area for picnics or for kids to run around on. There's also a playground (across from The Thinkery). A huge amount of birds here. Ducks, pigeons, grackles. Even saw cormorants. A few food trucks near the parking lot although most were closed late Sunday afternoon.

Mueller Lake Park is such a pleasant park to walk around. It is away from the hustle and bustle of…read morethe Mueller district. You take in the beautiful lake as you meander around the lake. The hubs and I walked around the lake after our brunch. Such a pleasant walk...

American fireworks has the best prices and quality I've seen. It was nice seeing a friendly face…read morethat took the time to give me exactly what I wanted. I recommend buying American!!!!

Multiple intricacies within the parks known as Town Lake Metropolitan. Waller Beach, the various…read moretrails and paths, the boardwalk, Ladybird Lake, etc. Such a peaceful and beautiful area to get in exercise (walking/running/leisurely strolling), enjoying the outdoors, year-round. Great to explore alone or with friends and family, or your furry friend. Different spots to sit and relax. Simply a beautiful piece of Austin for locals abs tourists alike.

You haven't explored Austin until you take a stroll through the series of parks through the Town…read moreLake areas. Covering multiple miles, you'll see parts of downtown alongside the colorado river. Along this pathway, you'll be lead to the Barton Springs municipal pool and the Zilker Park & Garden as you go west. Going east, you'll eventually find your way along the Boardwalk near the Town Lake apartments and then at some point, the peace point at lady bird lake, one of the chillest spots in Austin to zone out. Obviously you bike, jog, run, walk, dogwalk, skip, however you prefer to galivant along the way of this beautiful section of the capital of Texas. It's one of many reasons people love living here!

Our wonderful Rhodesian Ridgeback passed on to the rainbow bridge three months ago at the age of 14…read moreand we were lucky enough to have the opportunity to rehome a five-year-old Ridgeback -- see photos. Her name is Tails, previously Wrigley. Have been to Zilker with her five times in the three weeks that we have had her, most recently this morning. This continues to be a great place to take a friendly animal and allow them to run wild off leash. She loves mixing it up with the other dogs and, being a Ridgeback, she is the fastest dog out there other than some of the Vizslas. Loves the sand where volleyball is played! Lots of parking! Easy access!

Zilker Park is Austin's giant front lawn -- sprawling, busy, and full of every outdoor activity…read moreimaginable happening at once. On any given day you'll see dogs chasing frisbees, people picnicking like it's a competitive sport, and someone doing yoga in a spot that makes you wonder if they're performing for the whole park. The lawn stretches out forever, and on a sunny day it feels like half the city is out there claiming a patch of grass. Yes, the Zilker Zephyr (the little train) still exists in spirit, though it's been through closures and rebuilds. The current version -- the Zilker Eagle -- runs a short loop that's basically nostalgia on wheels. Kids love it, adults tolerate it, and everyone agrees it's one of those Austin things that doesn't need to make sense to be charming. Down by Barton Springs Pool, the real show is the area where the pool overflows into Barton Creek. It's almost always packed with families, college kids, and anyone who didn't feel like paying admission or dealing with lifeguards. It's a lively, slightly chaotic stretch of water -- people wading, floating, splashing, and generally having a great time in a spot that feels like Barton Springs' unofficial side‑door entrance. Parking is its own adventure, especially on weekends, and you'll see people trekking across the park like they're on a pilgrimage from wherever they finally found a spot. But once you're in, it's easy to settle into the mix of sunshine, crowds, and classic Austin energy.

Auditorium Shores aka Vic Mathias Shores is one of my favorite urban green spaces in Austin. Here…read moreis where you'll find the Stevie Ray Vaughan statue. Located just along the banks of Lady Bird Lake where the trails are. Lots of wide open green space for a picnic blanket, throwing a ball, playing with your dog, any outdoor activity. This area often has live music and festivals too. Check it out! Note: Parking can be a struggle. Early mornings are best to ensure getting a space.

Lovely park and walking trail! There's a small free lot nearby and parking can be difficult but if…read moreyou wait 5-10 minutes you can usually snag a spot!