Outdoor Activities in Austin

Outdoor activities in Austin are a mix of adventure sports and some laid-back vibes amidst scenic beauty. Austin comes with an ideal terrain and atmosphere to spend active holidays and make plenty of unforgettable memories. So, explore the wilderness of Austin and spend some time in the lap of nature with these exciting outdoor activities Austin has to offer. From the most adventurous experiences to the most popular ones, the following list combines it all to make sure you do not miss these unique experiences while planning a trip to Austin.

From sunrise to sunset, let's discover the best spots for outdoor activities in Austin:

  1. State Capitol

    4.7 (2578 Votes)
    State Capitol

    Art And Culture, Garden, Landmark, River

    Glistening grey statues, sunset red bricks and little historical gems await those who wish to visit the Texas State Capitol, in Austin. Whether you want to picnic in the gardens, watch the squirrels and birds gambolling about or take in some Texan history, this State Capitol is a relaxing and informative place to visit. Limestone crafted into Italian Renaissance Revival architecture creates a d...Read more
  2. Austin Bats

    4.4 (2699 Votes)
    Austin Bats

    History Museum, Park, River, Bridge

    Did you know a bat baby is called a pup? Or that bat mothers can identify their babies by their unique smell and high pitched squeak? You’ll be able to learn these facts, and more, at the Congress Avenue Bridge; the kind of destination that will leave you batty about Austin! This is no surprise since the city itself is home to the largest urban bat colony in the world. Besides parks and m...Read more
  3. Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum

    Museum, Educational Site, Memorial, Cafe

    Just a few blocks up north of the Capitol Building stands the hi-tech Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. Named after the state’s former lieutenant governor who envisioned the museum’s existence, this eye catching building aims to tell ‘the Story of Texas’. With a giant structure of a star erected in the front that’s sure to catch your eye and a display that&rs...Read more
  4. Lady Bird Lake Hike And Bike Trail

    Trail, Park, View Point, Biking Trail

    Runners, walkers and cyclists: unite! The Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike- Trail is 10 miles of green grass, lean trees and wide roads. The Trail is one of the most popular spots in the city, with visitors being drawn by excellent views of downtown Austin and the sparkling and pristine waters of Lady Bird Lake. The park is full of health enthusiasts and nature lovers working up a sweat and then co...Read more
  5. Austin Zoo

    4.3 (777 Votes)
    Austin Zoo

    Wildlife Sanctuary , Zoo, Nature, Bird Watching

    Austin Zoo located at southwest edge of Austin, Texas.  If you’re an animal lover and would like nothing better to see happy and healthy animals this   non-profit rescue  Zoo is perfect for you. It more sanctuary than zoo, the volunteers who run this place are completely dedicated to their mission of assisting animals in need, through resc...Read more
  6. Umlauf Sculpture Garden And Museum

    Museum, Garden, Walking Area, Picnic Spot

    With statues of bronze and stone being nuzzled be fresh, green grass, you can expect to see art and nature complement each other harmoniously in the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum. It’s amongst these beautiful bushes one can find 20th century American sculptor Charles Umlauf’s exquisite creations. Expect to find exhibitions that change according to the season, ample space for lo...Read more
  7. Westcave Preserve

    4.6 (513 Votes)
    Westcave Preserve

    Cave, Forest, Landmark, Hiking Trail

    If fresh air, green plants and little forest critters delight you, then prepare for a completely refreshing city-detox at the Westcave Preserve. A scenic 45 minutes drive away from North Austin and near another gorgeous landmark, the Hamilton Pool, this preserve is one of the most special things in Texas. Like many other parks in the city, this preserve aims to protect Texas’s natural flo...Read more
  8. Lake Travis

    4.6 (55 Votes)
    Lake Travis

    Lake, Nature

    There is no doubt that Texas is rich in natural resources, especially water resources. Lake Travis of Texas is one such gem. It is a reservoir located on the Colorado river in central Texas and known to see a lot of visitors every day. Built in 1942, it is a part of the seven highlands lakes and stretches 65 miles from Travis County. The place is flocked to a lot by the nature lovers. Those who...Read more
  9. Hamilton Pool

    4.4 (46 Votes)
    Hamilton Pool

    Water Body

    The pool had its origin a long ago. Created due to massive erosion under a dome, this pool is located about 23 miles away from Austin. The place has been one of the most popular places in Austin for natives and tourists alike to swim and enjoy. Even in the 1960s, the place was known for its wild crowd that was all about fun, dancing and what not! The pool is filled with warm water flowing into ...Read more
  10. Lake Austin - 360 Bridge Overlook

    View Point, Bridge

    This is surely one of the coolest views in all of Austin. Bring your family and friends here to experience the surreal view. There is a short hike up to the top but nothing too strenuous. You have a great view of the river, 360 bridge, and the city. The 360 bridge overlook is also a great spot for a date night. Grab some wine, cheese, and a baguette and watch the sun-set. More about Austin To ...Read more
  11. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

    4.7 (782 Votes)
    Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

    Trail, Garden, View Point, Statue

    Imagine butterflies fluttering and dancing around rainbow coloured flowers, all set against emerald green grass. Now imagine a reality where none of these beauties exist! The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is dedicated to keeping such a horrifying possibility away by protecting and conserving as much of North America’s flora as possible. The Center resembles a sprawling garden, burst...Read more
  12. McKinney Falls State Park

    4.5 (1070 Votes)
    McKinney Falls State Park

    Trail, Park, Camp, Hiking Trail

    Austin is a dream for athletically inclined people and nature lovers, with all its hiking trails and vast natural beauty. McKinney Falls State Park is yet another oasis of green loveliness that the city nestles in within its borders. Mossy grottoes, trickling waterfalls and a refreshing pool will greet those who make the trek downwards and though a little taxing, it’s well worth the walk....Read more
  13. Zilker Metropolitan Park

    4.7 (1597 Votes)
    Zilker Metropolitan Park

    Museum, Park, Botanical Garden, Biking Trail

    Welcome to Austin’s most-loved park! With thriving plant and animal life and a huge variety of things to do, the Zilker Metropolitan Park is the diamond in the crown of Austin’s ‘places to see’. Are you in Austin during the winter time? Then head on over to the park and gaze upon the stunning 155 feet tall Zilker Holiday Tree, all decked up in streamers and lights. Visit...Read more
  14. Peter Pan Mini-Golf

    4.5 (8 Votes)
    Peter Pan Mini-Golf

    Golf Course

    Reward your love of golf at the Peter Pan Mini-golf, a miniature and spectacular golf club operating since 1948. Located at Austin, this course offers you a magnificent view of the entire landscape of Austin at the backdrop. It has two separate courses with 18 holes each, which usually plays great music throughout your pleasant stay here. You can enjoy playing golf for hours here with your fam...Read more
  15. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve

    4.6
    Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve

    Nature

    This place can also be called as a hikers’ heaven as there is a 2.5-mile hiking trail in this place. The Wild Basin wilderness preserve is a pretty old place which was founded in the year 1974 to protect the natural habitat. This place has some waterfalls which you can look out for. Also, you can find many beautiful birds like the peacock in this area. The hike is a bit challenging thus w...Read more