Things To Do Outdoors Archives - 365 Things Austin https://365thingsaustin.com/category/things-to-do-outdoors/ Austin, Texas Events, Music, Restaurants, Festivals and More Things to Do in Austin! Tue, 01 Jul 2025 18:59:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 Dog Friendly Patios In Austin https://365thingsaustin.com/dog-friendly-patios-in-austin/ Mon, 30 Jun 2025 17:11:23 +0000 https://365thingsaustin.com/?p=276339 Life is better with our four-legged friends! We put together a list of patios across Austin that are pet-friendly so you can bring your furbabies along on all of your […]

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Life is better with our four-legged friends! We put together a list of patios across Austin that are pet-friendly so you can bring your furbabies along on all of your adventures.

Need someone to patio sit with? Zate is a dating app that helps you plan better dates. Skip the extra steps and get right to the date.

Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden

With their extensive beer, coffee, and seasonal cocktail list, Cosmic is the perfect place to go for a casual sip. Their outdoor area is massive, and is complete with picnic tables, three food trucks, and a chicken coop!


Perla’s

If you’re looking for champagne and oysters, Perla’s is the spot for you. Located on South Congress, Perla’s is a great place to go when looking to grab lunch followed by some shopping at Austin’s top clothing boutiques and vintage stores.


TLC

Southern comfort food and seafood boils are the name of the game at TLC. Build your own seafood boil with king crab, mussels, and shrimp, or opt for a Texas favorite like the Chicken Fried Steak or the Cowboy Ribeye.


Tacodeli

Tacodeli has six locations all across Austin, all with dog-friendly patios! They have a wide range of breakfast tacos, lunch tacos, chips and dips, and newly added cocktails and dinner plates.


Revelry Kitchen + Bar

Located on E. 6th Street, Revelry Kitchen + Bar makes it easy to loosen up with their fun party vibes, great cocktails, and awesome menu. It’s a great place for Sunday Funday as they have a great brunch menu, a DJ, Jell-O shots, and boozy brunch sips.


Little Darlin’

If you’re looking to catch some live music and great food, the South Austin gem Little Darlin’ is calling your name! They have both an indoor and outdoor bar, patio swings, picnic tables, and yard games that make it a great spot for casual hangs.


Easy Tiger

With two Austin locations—North and South Easy Tiger is a great place to go when looking for a convenient meet-up spot. You can’t go wrong with any of the snacks at Easy Tiger as they focus on artisan bread, pastries, pretzels, and cured meats.


Bouldin Acres

Bouldin Acres now with two locations has a laid-back vibe complete with food trucks, pickleball courts, lawn games, TVs, and more. Whether you’re looking to eat, drink, or engage in some friendly competition, Bouldin Acres has a chill atmosphere with tons to do.


Radio Coffee & Beer

With coffee, cocktails, and craft beer, Radio is a good choice when you are looking to meet up with someone over drinks. Their outside area is nice and shaded and has a food truck on site!


Central Machine Works

Central Machine Works always has something going on. Whether it be live music, movie nights, or a beer run, there’s always something fun in the works!


Cenote

Cenote’s patio is the perfect combo of sunny and shady, plus it’s covered with greenery! Cenote not only serves amazing coffee, but they also have a full food menu of fresh offerings made with the best ingredients.


Las Perlas

Las Perlas is a cool and cozy mezcal bar with a beautiful patio! They’re also connected to two other bars, and Asador Tacos making it easy to bop around from spot to spot.


Paperboy

Paperboy has a lower level and rooftop patio, and both are pup-friendly. They open at 8 a.m. every day for breakfast and brunch.


Lou’s

Lou’s is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They have daily happy hour and reverse happy hour along with movie nights every Tuesday.


Wanderlust Wine Co.

If you’re a wine lover, Wanderlust is the place for you! They are the largest self-pour wine on tap winery, and always have live music or other fun events going on.


Fresa’s

Fresa’s has two locations in Austin, and they’re serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with a great cocktail list. Their 9th and Lamar location has a convenient walk-up window with a smaller menu for walk-up and to-go, and their S. 1st location has a full bar with an expanded dine-in and takeout menu.

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The Ultimate Austin Public Pool Guide https://365thingsaustin.com/the-ultimate-austin-public-pool-guide/ Thu, 15 May 2025 13:29:00 +0000 https://365thingsaustin.com/?p=390660 Ready to cool off this summer? Whether you’re a year-round lap swimmer or just looking to splash around with friends, Austin’s public pools have something for everyone. Best part? Most […]

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Ready to cool off this summer? Whether you’re a year-round lap swimmer or just looking to splash around with friends, Austin’s public pools have something for everyone. Best part? Most are free! Just note that a few of the more popular spots charge a $5 entry fee for adult residents.

Entry Fees

  • Free: Most city pools
  • $5 for Adult Residents: Bartholomew, Barton Springs, Deep Eddy, Springwoods, Northwest, and Garrison

Year-Round Pool Facilities

Enjoy these pools all year long, perfect for winter warriors and summer swimmers alike:

  • Bartholomew – 1800 E 51st St
  • Barton Springs – 2131 William Barton Dr
  • Big Stacy – 700 E Live Oak St
  • Colony Park Pool (Opens Late May) – 7400 Loyola Ln
  • Deep Eddy – 401 Deep Eddy Ave
  • Springwoods – 13320 Lyndhurst St

Seasonal Pool Openings Summer 2025

Get your calendars ready! Here’s when each seasonal pool opens and where to find them:

Opening Date Pool Address
May 17 Mabel Davis 3427 Parker Lane
May 30 Balcones 12017 Amherst Dr
May 30 Dick Nichols 8011 Beckett Rd
May 30 Dove Springs 5801 Ainez Dr
May 30 Rosewood 2300 Rosewood Ave
June 2 Brentwood 6710 Arroyo Seco
June 2 Dottie Jordan 2803 Loyola Ln
June 2 Govalle 5200 Bolm Rd
June 2 Martin 1626 Nash Hernandez Sr Dr
June 2 Murchison 7022 Hart Ln
June 2 Patterson 4200 Brookview Dr
June 7 Canyon Vista 8455 Spicewood Springs Rd
June 7 Dittmar 1009 W Dittmar Dr
June 7 Ramsey 4201 Burnet Rd
June 7 Reed 2614 Pecos St
June 7 Shipe 4400 Ave G
June 7 West Enfield 2000 Enfield Rd
June 9 Civitan 513 Vargas Rd
June 9 Gillis 2410 Durwood Ave
June 9 Kennemer 1031 Peyton Gin Rd
June 9 Metz 2309 Canterbury St
June 9 Parque Zaragoza 2611 Webberville Rd
June 9 Stacy Wading 1401 Sunset Ln
June 9 West Austin 1317 W 10th St
Open Givens 3811 E 12th St
Open Garrison 6001 Menchaca Rd
Open Walnut Creek 12138 N Lamar Blvd
Closed Montopolis (Renovation) 1200 Montopolis Dr
Closed Northwest (Renovation) 7000 Ardath St

Tips for Pool Days in Austin

  • Arrive early on weekends—parking and shaded spots fill up fast.
  • Check pool status on the City of Austin website before heading out (especially after storms).
  • Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks (some pools allow coolers, others don’t).
  • Most pools are family-friendly, but hours may vary for lap swim vs. open swim.

Stay cool out there, Austin! Whether you’re perfecting your backstroke or just lounging poolside, there’s no better way to beat the heat than a dip in a neighborhood pool.

Let us know your favorite spot or share a pool day selfie—we might feature it in our next post!

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Best Natural Swimming Spots In And Around Austin https://365thingsaustin.com/top-swimming-holes-austin/ Wed, 14 May 2025 20:02:55 +0000 http://austin365stag.wpengine.com/?p=22742 Summertime has officially arrived in Austin, Texas, and for locals, this news means spending every weekend splashing around in the top swimming holes in the state to beat the heat. […]

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Summertime has officially arrived in Austin, Texas, and for locals, this news means spending every weekend splashing around in the top swimming holes in the state to beat the heat. So grab your swimsuit, a little sunscreen, and a towel, and check out our favorite swimming spots:

Barton Springs

barton springs

Barton Springs is an Austinite favorite. Measuring 1,100 feet in length, this spring-fed pool is one of the only non-chlorinated swimming pools of its size in the country. It is literally one of the coolest swimming holes in Texas with an average year-round temperature of 68 degrees, so no matter how hot it gets outside this summer, you can rest easy knowing there will always be one place in the city you can go to cool off.

Entrance Fees
Adult (18+): Resident $5; Non-resident $9
Junior (12-17): Resident $3; Non-resident $5
Child (1-11): Resident $2; Non-resident $4
Under 12 months: Free
Senior (62+): Resident $2; Non-resident $5


Deep Eddy Pool

deep_eddy_pool_2012_630

Photo by Wikipedia Commons

Deep Eddy Pool is one of Austin’s local gems because the water is filtered in from the Colorado River – making the water’s temperature about 70 degrees all summer long. So if you’re looking for a place to take a refreshing dip, relax by the water, and catch a few rays, you’re going to love this man-made pool.

Entrance Fees
Adult (18+): Resident $5; Non-resident $9
Junior (12-17): Resident $3; Non-resident $5
Child (1-11): Resident $2; Non-resident $4
Under 12 months: Free
Senior (62+): Resident $2; Non-resident $5


Hamilton Pool

hamilton_pool_630

Photo by amazingplacesonearth.com

Hamilton Pool is truly a work of art, and an incredible sight to see with Hamilton Creek spilling over the steep box canyon’s edge, creating a 50-foot waterfall that feeds into its own natural pool. You and your family will be glad you visited this historic site.

Hamilton Pool requires reservations to visit: Click Here 


McKinney Falls

mckinney_falls_630

Photo by mo.austin360.com

This family-friendly place is much more remote than our other swimming hole favorites, but it’s a great location for those seeking a retreat from city life. When you check out McKinney Falls, you’ll not only be able to swim at your leisure, but you can also hike and set up your own campsite.

Entrance Fees
Adults: $6
Under 12 years: Free


Campbell’s Hole

Located on the Barton Creek Greenbelt, Campbell’s Hole includes rock formations, sandbars, and a pebble beach, and lies near the Homedale and Spyglass access points. It’s also less popular than some other Austin swimming holes, so there’s usually room to spread out. Just be ready for a short hike to get there.

Entrance Fees
Free


Blue Hole Regional Park

Located in Wimberly just 45 from Austin, Blue Hole Regional Park is a natural, spring-fed swimming hole in the Hill Country featuring a swim lawn, a large shallow area perfect for younger kids, shady Cypress trees, clear water, and rope swings. Reservations are required.

Entrance Fees
Adults (13-59): $12
Child (4-12): $8
Children 3 and under: Free
Seniors (60+): $8


Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Emma Long Metropolitan Park in Northwest Austin has hiking trails, boat ramps, and camping sites, as well as a beach-entry swimming spot and docks to jump into the Colorado River. There’s also ample space to picnic, making it a family-friendly spot for an afternoon of fun.

Entrance Fees
$5 per day/vehicle, Monday through Thursday.
$10 per day/vehicle Friday through Sunday, and holidays.


Krause Springs

krause_springs_630

Photo by generalchemistrylaboratory

Our last swimming hole selection goes to Krause Springs—one of Texas’ best-kept secrets. Located only 30 miles outside of the city lies a collection of 32 natural springs, which stay at the perfect swimming temperature all year round. Once you’ve visited Krause Springs you’ll wonder why you hadn’t visited it before.

Entrance Fees
Adult (12+): $10
Child (4-11): $6
Children under 4 years: Free

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Top 5 Tucked Away Hiking Trails in Austin https://365thingsaustin.com/top-5-tucked-away-hiking-trails-in-austin/ Mon, 28 Apr 2025 13:58:03 +0000 http://austin365stag.wpengine.com/?p=27177 Outdoor enthusiasts are pretty lucky here in Austin. We’re graced with scenic trails and beautiful views right in our own backyard (see: Town Lake (Lady Bird) and the Barton Creek Greenbelt). […]

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Outdoor enthusiasts are pretty lucky here in Austin. We’re graced with scenic trails and beautiful views right in our own backyard (see: Town Lake (Lady Bird) and the Barton Creek Greenbelt).

For those who have ran the trail and hiked The Greenbelt countless times, we’ve put together a list of our favorite hidden gems in Austin that may not be on your radar. All the trails are free and are within a 30 minute drive from downtown. Check ’em out!

1. River Place Nature Trail

Surrounded by greenery and tall trees, this trail will take you to a different world; a world that is shaded and cooler (great for the hot, summer months). After climbing many stairs, your heart rate will soar and you’ll reach high levels of elevation that you wouldn’t find anywhere else in Austin. The trail is extremely clear and is impossible to get lost on. Make sure you stop at the creeks and waterfall to cool off. If you’re looking for a challenging hike, this ones got your name all over it!

Pro tip: If you’re a moderately-experienced runner, run the trail. It’s worth it!

Distance: 5.5-6 miles (round trip; no loop)
Dog friendly: Yes
Terrain: Mostly dirt, stairs, some water crossings
Fees/Reservations: $10 on Saturdays and Sundays; no reservations, no cash


2. Walnut Creek Trail

This neck of the woods is a popular spot for both hikers and mountain bikers. Comprised of a huge, 15-mile mass of land, Walnut Creek is an explorer’s dream. There are tons of unmarked paths, so you may get a little lost; but that’s more fun, right? With multiple winding paths and few obstacles, undertaking part of the trail is perfect for beginners. The hike offers plenty of overlooks, so don’t forget to stop and smell the roses on the way up. And of course, cool down in the beautiful creek on the way down. 

Pro tip: Wear good shoes. The rocks can be pesky!

Distance: 15 mile loop
Terrain: dirt, loose gravel, small and large rocks, tree roots
Dog friendly: Yes; there are on and off leash sections
Fees/Reservations: Free; no reservations 


 3. Turkey Creek Trail

Located near The Emma Metropolitan Park, you may be lucky enough to see some wildlife on the drive up! Turkey Creek trail is a very cool, secluded spot where you’ll find a creek that runs along the trail. Although primarily flat, you will find parts of the trail that have moderate elevation changes as well as water crossings. This is the place to be one with nature; but, don’t forget that bug spray!

Pro tip: No, really, lather yourself in bug spray. Horse flies are not your friend.

Distance: 2.8 mile loop
Terrain: Loose rocks, dirt, tree roots
Dog Friendly: Yes, off leash
Fees/Reservations: Free; no reservations


 4. St. Edwards Park

Referred to as the “country within the city,” St. Edwards Park is a perfect balance between finding peace and chasing adventure. Surrounded by forest-like areas, there are lots of hidden trails, great elevation, phenomenal views, a waterfall, and a creek. This trail has everything you need for a peaceful getaway and truly is the best of both worlds.

Pro tip: If you’re looking for a more challenging trail with elevation, take the hill trail. Keep your eyes peeled on the way down and you will find a rope swing and swimming hole for all your adventure needs!

Distance: 2-4 mile loop (depending on the trail – hill or creek)
Terrain: mostly dirt, rocks, gravel, and some tree roots
Dog Friendly: Yes; dogs must be on a leash
Fees/Reservations: Free; no reservations


5. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve


Located off of Loop 360, you can access Wild Basin Wilderness preserve easily, making it a great spot for families and visitors to Austin. It’s a short trail comprised of multiple paths and terrain (dirt, large rocks, loose gravel, tree roots). There are some hills with relatively high elevation, and multiple overlooks that show off a great view of Austin. With a perfect, easy-to-get-to location, be sure to check out this trail for a weekend adventure. 

Pro tip: Trails are marked very clearly, but here’s a trail map to help out since there are multiple networks of trails.

Distance: 2.5 mile round trip
Terrain: Dirt, loose gravel, rocks, tree roots
Dog Friendly: No
Fees/Reservations: Free on weekdays; reservations required on weekends and holidays with a nominal day-use fee

Written by Danielle McIntosh

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Lake Travis Zipline Adventures Is Open For The Season https://365thingsaustin.com/lake-travis-zipline-adventures-is-open-for-the-season/ Sat, 01 Mar 2025 16:11:15 +0000 https://365thingsaustin.com/?p=307004 Here’s a great activity that will give you a whole new perspective on the beautiful area around Austin. Lake Travis Zipline Adventures (LTZA) will officially open Friday, March 1st, for […]

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Here’s a great activity that will give you a whole new perspective on the beautiful area around Austin. Lake Travis Zipline Adventures (LTZA) will officially open Friday, March 1st, for the spring, summer, and fall seasons. This is an awesome thing to do when the weather is beautiful in Central Texas. 

Located at Adventure Island in Leander, LTZA is a three-hour guided adventure with five of the fastest and longest ziplines in Texas—ranging from 300 feet to over 2800 feet. In between gliding across beautiful canyons and soaring over Lake Travis, zipliners will take nature hikes through the Texas Hill Country with two professional guides.  

Each adventure includes all necessary equipment, boat transportation, and bottled water throughout the tour, with additional all-day access to a private lakefront property where you can picnic, play games, or relax in a hammock.

Reservations and closed-toe shoes are required, and sunscreen is recommended. Zipliners of all ages must weigh between 70–250 lbs. For more information, click here.

When: Wednesday–Monday 

Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Extended hours will be available during Spring Break!) 

Location:
14529 Pocohontas Trail
Leander, TX 78641

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Where To Play Pickleball In Austin https://365thingsaustin.com/where-to-play-pickleball-in-austin/ Thu, 11 Jul 2024 14:04:35 +0000 https://365thingsaustin.com/?p=304069 Some casual sports tend to come in and out of fashion, but it looks like one is taking real root in Austin: pickleball. The sport—which is sort of like a […]

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Some casual sports tend to come in and out of fashion, but it looks like one is taking real root in Austin: pickleball. The sport—which is sort of like a combo of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong—has found a home among outdoorsy (and even not-so-outdoorsy) Austinites.

Played with paddles and a plastic ball on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net, pickleball has grown in popularity over recent years. It’s easy to see why: The rules are simple, it doesn’t require pro-level skills, and it’s a great way to meet up with friends. Plus, there are several bars and restaurants with courts in Austin.

Austin is also home to Pickleball Playmakers, an organization that will help you plan your next corporate or private pickleball event. They also offer one-on-one and group pickleball lessons for all skill levels.

Ready to hit the court? Here’s where you can play pickleball in Austin.

Austin Parks and Recreation Department Pickleball Courts

The city has over 15 sites of public pickleball courts across the city, which are free to use for anyone with paddles, and no reservation is needed. Some even have indoor courts for those unbearably hot days, such as the South Austin Recreation Center, Hancock Recreation Center, and the Northwest Recreation Center. Just find your closest location, and be sure to check the hours before you go.

Multiple locations

Austin Pickle Ranch 

Austin Pickle Ranch is a true adult playground and hosts one of the largest set of indoor courts with 16 courts under one roof! Housing state-of-the-art courts, designed with performance in mind using CushionX technology. They offer open play, leagues, clinics, and more.

11000 Middle Fiskville Road, Building B, Austin, TX 78753

Austin Tennis Center

Austin Tennis Center is the largest public pickleball center and has eight lighted pickleball courts with permanent nets, so you don’t have to quit just because the sun went down. If you really want to hone your skills, join the pickleball league or take a lesson with Coach Calvin Keeney. Call 512-928-8119 or use the online court scheduler to reserve a court.

7800 Johnny Morris Rd.

Bouldin Acres

Bouldin Acres patrons can rent one of the restaurant’s two pickleball courts in half-hour increments for $10 to $20. Need some equipment? Court rental comes with two balls, and you can rent paddles for $2.50 each. Courts must be reserved online and in advance, and bookings open one week in advance.

2027 South Lamar Blvd.

Dreamland Dripping Springs

Dreamland, located in Dripping Springs, is a private event space with mini golf, a splash pad, sculptures scattered throughout, disc golf, and 16 dedicated pickleball courts open to the public. Open walk-in play is available Thursday through Sunday mornings for a nominal fee, or reserve a court for your group during those same days. No need to scrounge up a paddle if you don’t have one—Dreamland has rentals available for $3 each.

2770 Hwy 290, Dripping Springs

The Fieldhouse at the Crossover

The Fieldhouse at the Crossover in Cedar Park has plenty of activities—live music, volleyball, cornhole, and two pickleball courts available to rent by the hour. And on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to close, the Fieldhouse’s courts become 21 and up. Keep in mind pickleball paddles and balls are not included with your reservation.

1717 Scottsdale Drive, Cedar Park

Little Zilker Neighborhood Park

The public park, Little Zilker Neighborhood Park, has two first-come, first-served outdoor courts that are shared with the tennis courts, but you will need to bring your own net. Stop here for an afternoon of pickleball and utilize the nearby tables for a picnic.

2016 Bluebonnet Ln.

The Pitch

Located next to Parmer Field, the Pitch has two courts available for free reservations and one court open to the public. Two balls are provided, and paddles are available for rent for $2.50 per pair. The Pitch also has four restaurants and two bars to choose from after you work up an appetite.

13000 Harris Ridge Blvd.

Shalom Austin 

You don’t have to be a member to take a pickleball class at Shalom Austin’s Hurt Family Tennis Center. They have four lit outdoor pickleball courts and classes and clinics for all levels. Non-members will pay a separate fee when they register.

7300 Hart Ln.

Ski Shores Cafe

MML Hospitality recently revamped the Lake Austin classic and installed special pickleball courts so you can play and sip a cocktail. You can likely expect pickleball events in the future—over Thanksgiving weekend in 2022, Ski Shores hosted their First Annual Ski Shores Doubles Classic, a three-day pickleball tournament.

2905 Pearce Rd.

East Side Paddle Club

Tired of waiting for courts in Austin? Eastside Paddle Club has nearly 30,500 square feet of space with 10 different courts to choose from. They are membership based but its the price you pay for indoor courts these days.

979 Springdale Rd #120, Austin, TX 78702


5 Soul Wine & Frontyard Brewing

4514 Bob Wire Rd, Spicewood, TX 78669


Urban Pickleball 

300 San Antonio, 4th floor, Austin, Texas 78701


Last Stand Brewing

Building 6, 7601 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745


Sage Hill Inn & Spa

4444 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Kyle, TX 78640


Pickleland

21427 Martin Ln, Pflugerville, TX 78660

Other Racquet Social Club

2717 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722


Waterloo Pickleball 

410 Pressler St, Austin, TX 78703


PicklePub ATX

10630 Menchaca Rd Bldg B, Austin TX 78748


Williamson County Regional Park

3005 County Road 175, LeanderTX 78641


The Picklr

Two locations opening Fall 2024

West Austin: 8201 N FM 620, Austin, TX 78726
Round Rock: S I-35 Frontage Rd, Round Rock, TX 78664

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A Guide To Hiking Austin’s Greenbelt https://365thingsaustin.com/a-guide-to-hiking-austins-greenbelt/ Wed, 20 Dec 2023 21:56:07 +0000 https://365thingsaustin.com/?p=312800 Austin is well-loved for its greenspaces, but perhaps none is mentioned as often as the Greenbelt. Each year, locals and visitors flock to the public land to see Central Texas’ […]

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Austin is well-loved for its greenspaces, but perhaps none is mentioned as often as the Greenbelt. Each year, locals and visitors flock to the public land to see Central Texas’ natural beauty and maybe get a swim in as well.

Want to head out to the Greenbelt soon? Here’s what you should know.

What is the Greenbelt?

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a 7.5-mile stretch of land through South Austin used for hiking, swimming, birdwatching, rock climbing, cycling, and more. It begins near the famed Barton Springs Pool at Zilker Park and ends at 1712 Camp Craft Road.

Where can I enter?

The Greenbelt has seven access points. Popular ones include the trail’s head at Zilker Park (2212 William Barton Drive), the main access point off of the Capital of Texas Highway (3755-B Capital of Texas Highway), and the Twin Falls access point (3918 South Mopac Expressway).

What should I bring?

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, especially during Austin’s warm days. Snacks are also a good idea, but don’t forget to take all trash and recyclables—leave no trace! Alcohol is not allowed, so leave the beer at home. A towel and extra socks may also be a good idea if you plan to swim.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome on the trail but must stay on a leash for the safety of other hikers and cyclists. Don’t forget extra water for your furry friend. Also, check on Austin’s harmful algae blooms that may crop up in the Greenbelt’s water, which can be extremely toxic for dogs if ingested.

Where can I park?

Parking lots are near the Zilker, 360, and Homedale access points. But beware, spots can fill up quickly on good weather days. Austin is also bringing back its free weekend shuttle from the One Texas Center parking garage to Zilker Park starting May 27.

Where can I swim?

Perhaps the most crucial question for hiking during Austin’s warmer months. The Greenbelt includes two swimming areas: Campbell’s Hole and Gus Fruh.

Campbell’s Hole includes rock formations, sandbars, and a pebble beach, and lies near the Homedale and Spyglass access points. It’s also less popular than some other Austin swimming holes.

Gus Fruh is another less-traveled favorite of locals, and the swimming hole can get very deep after some good rain. However, the Gus Fruh access point (2632 Barton Hills Drive) is in a residential area, meaning street parking is necessary.

Hikers will also take a dip in Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls. Just know that water levels will always depend on rainfall; you’ll have a better shot at a good swim in late spring and early summer.

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Float the River Like a Pro https://365thingsaustin.com/float-the-river Sun, 09 Jul 2023 14:54:56 +0000 http://austin365stag.wpengine.com/?p=32310 A Texas summer just isn’t complete without floating the river. And if you’re going to embark on this age-old journey of aquatic debauchery, you might as well do it right! […]

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A Texas summer just isn’t complete without floating the river. And if you’re going to embark on this age-old journey of aquatic debauchery, you might as well do it right! This year, we’ve partnered with Austin Tour Company to offer public floats with added features that make it a floating party unlike any other.

We’re offering the ultimate floating experience—we provide transportation along with your tube, ice chests/coolers, and more! You can meet new friends and live it up on the river without worrying about getting home safe. We’ll pick you up at BBG’s on 6th Street where you can load up on beverages, snacks, ice, and more!

Duration: 6 hours (roughly)

Cost: $69.00-$89.00

Here’s what you can expect:

The best season of the year is here and that’s FLOATING SEASON! Public Floats will always run Friday, Saturday & Sunday. We will be offering Public Floats seven days a week May 4th – September based on availability. For last minute Monday – Thursday floats please call (512) 282-8687 to confirm whether or not a Public Float will be running.

Your ticket includes:

– Round trip transportation from downtown Austin to and from the San Marcos River to float with our partners at Texas State Tubes.

– One tube for you and one for your group to put your cooler in.

We provide the coolers complimentary for your convenience on the bus.

– In order to protect the San Marcos River, styrofoam and glass are not allowed.

– Check In for Floats is at BBG’s (214 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701)

– The bus departs at 11:00 AM sharp – Please don’t be late or you’ll have to find your own ride to the river! 

-Floats normally last 3.5-4 hours, depending on the speed of the river which is altered by the amount of rain we have in the area annually.

– Will will return to downtown Austin at approximately 5PM – 5:30PM

– The bus and float are BYOB.

Need to know:

– New regulations are being enforced by the city of San Marcos on the river – stopping for long periods of time not will be allowed on the float during prime season dates, July-August.

– Please grab a reusable trash bag from Texas State tubes before hopping on the river to collect your trash for the duration of the float. If you do not grab a trash bag, put empty cans back in your cooler. Please do not throw your trash in the river.

– The bus will leave from Texas State Tubes no later than 4:00PM. You are responsible for arriving by this time in order get a ride with ATC back to Austin. The bus cannot wait longer than this time. If you are later than this time, your valuables will be left on site and you will be responsible for getting your ride back to Austin. There is plenty of time to float and arrive back before this time – just be mindful!

– Full trip details and information will be sent out VIA EMAIL the week of your float. Please check your email for those trip details as they are subject to change. 

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Outdoor Fun In Fredericksburg https://365thingsaustin.com/outdoor-fun-in-fredericksburg-2/ Mon, 20 Mar 2023 15:36:37 +0000 https://365thingsaustin.com/?p=309056 Just over an hour west of Austin, Fredericksburg is well-known for its Main Street shopping, wine tasting, and fine dining. Sitting at the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg […]

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Just over an hour west of Austin, Fredericksburg is well-known for its Main Street shopping, wine tasting, and fine dining. Sitting at the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg has always been one of the best places to experience wide open spaces. This town is brimming with German heritage and has several outdoor activities for all ages.

Take a hike up or around Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Be sure to make reservations to guarantee entry to the park as it is one of Fredericksburg’s most popular attractions. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance. 

After a full day of hiking and watching the sunset over the hills, make sure to look up and enjoy the sights above. Fredericksburg is an International Dark Sky Community, and the area’s night skies produce an amazing stargazing experience

Check out other local favorites like nature trails at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, Cross Mountain, or Wildseed Farms, the largest working wildflower farm in the U.S. From bluebonnets to Indian Paintbrushes, wildflowers only add to the spring beauty in the area. According to wildflower experts, flowers will likely bloom in 2023 from mid-March through mid-May

For the kids, don’t miss the playground and greenspace at Marktplatz, or Market Square located in downtown Fredericksburg. 

With so much to see and do, you will want to extend your stay. Check out more than 1,500 vacation rentals, as well as 20 hotels and inns

To plan your visit to Fredericksburg, go to VisitFredericksburgTX.com.

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Great Austin Nurseries For Gardening Season https://365thingsaustin.com/great-austin-nurseries-for-gardening-season/ Mon, 20 Mar 2023 01:46:57 +0000 https://365thingsaustin.com/?p=308084 The trees are finally turning green again, and Austin’s temperatures are warming. It’s gardening season when Austinites start filling pots and beds with flowers, veggies, and more. But of course, […]

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The trees are finally turning green again, and Austin’s temperatures are warming. It’s gardening season when Austinites start filling pots and beds with flowers, veggies, and more.

But of course, you need supplies to start (or revitalize) your garden for spring this year. Here are a few nurseries in Austin that can help.

Garden Seventeen

Garden Seventeen sits on what was once an industrial site before it was repurposed into a  garden center. Its main building was a hangar in the 1920s before it moved to its current location, where it now houses plants, seeds, and supplies. Make an afternoon of your plant shopping and visit its food court with local food trucks.

604 Williams St.

Sledd Nursery

This Clarksville nursery has been around since 1978 and stocks plants from Central Texas growers, including flowers, trees, annuals, and more.

1211 West Lynn St.

The Natural Gardener

Natural Gardener is a gardener’s dream with eight acres of plants, supplies, and more. They also offer free classes to learn more about caring for native plants or growing your own fruit.

8648 Old Bee Caves Rd.

Barton Springs Nursery

Barton Springs Nursery sits on four acres and stocks native and well-adapted plants grown from seed on-site, fertilizers and soils, tools, pest treatments, and bulbs. Have a question? Chat with the experts at the “Genus Bar.” They also offer landscape design services if you need help planning your dream garden.

3601 Bee Caves Rd.

The Great Outdoors

Open since 1994, The Great Outdoors has an extensive inventory of plants, products, tools, and decor on two acres that also includes a waterfall and a tropical greenhouse. They also offer design consultations and potting services on-site.

2730 South Congress Ave.

Tillery Street Plant Company

Tillery Street Plant Company in East Austin hosts a team of artists and musicians who love plants and sell native and adaptive plants, including rare or unusual ones. Virtual plant consultations are available for those who need advice on anything plant related, including vegetable gardening, native landscaping, and interior plant-scaping.

801 Tillery St.

Shoal Creek Nursery

This Central Austin nursery has plants, imported pottery, water features, and gardening supplies, as well as gifts for the plant lovers in your life (or yourself). Keep an eye on their Instagram for inventory updates.

2710 Hancock Dr.


Gardening Tips For Spring In Austin

  • If you’re feeling confident enough to nurse your own plants, some Austin Public Library branches have seed collection libraries, where you can “check out” perennial and annual seeds to sprout at home. Then, harvest seeds from those plants and turn them into your library branch to keep the seed library going.
  • Check and see what you should plant at what point in the year. For example, March is a transitional month from the cold to the warm season and might not be the best time to plant something that a late cold snap could potentially harm. Talk to your local nursery if you’re unsure.
  • Start small if you’re new to gardening. There’s no shame in keeping a small window box or a few small pots before graduating to big raised beds.
  • Need more space for your growing vegetables? See if there are plots available at an Austin community garden nearby.

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