5 of the Best Outdoor Activities in Austin, TX
Whether you are someone who just moved to Austin, TX from out of state or just visiting for a couple of days, here are a few outdoorsy things that you can try out in and around the city. Let's dive in!
1. Enjoy the City Views from Lady Bird Lake
If you love more urban outdoor activities, going to Lady Bird Lake (formerly Town Lake) is the perfect place to spend your time. With a beautiful view of downtown Austin, you can explore over 10 miles of trail that runs right along the lake on foot or by bike. One of my favorite sections of the trail is the boardwalk located to the east of the river.
You can also explore Lady Bird Lake from the water. Bring your own kayak or paddleboard or rent one from one of the many boat rentals along the river!
2. Take a Dip at McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls State Park is located within minutes of downtown Austin. Once you're in the park, it almost doesn't feel like you're in the city anymore. The upper and lower falls are magical and the perfect spots to jump in to cool off during those unbearably hot Texas days. Other things you can do are:
Throw up a hammock and take a nap
Try to catch some fish in Onion Creek
Hike on the trails and say hi to a deer
Invite your friends and fam for a BBQ
Book a campsite for the weekend
Read or even work from one of the many picnic tables
3. Get a Birds Eye View of Nature on a Zip Line
Nature from the sky? Sign me up, please. Although I haven't had the chance to zip line yet, this should definitely be on your to-do list if you are a local, visiting from out of town, or a new Austinite! You can go to a few places to do this – Lake Travis or Bastrop (which is 30 min outside of the city).
4. Challenge Yourself to Hike River Place Nature Trail
If you love hiking and want a challenge, River Place Nature trail is calling out to you. I wrote about my first time hiking this trail with a backpacking pack, and although it was difficult with over 2,000 stair steps, I had the best time! It's over 3 miles long, and you may have to pay a $10 fee depending on the time of day you go. Try to go early in the morning before it gets crowded to avoid paying. And bring lots of water and snacks!
5. Relax and Enjoy a Picnic at Zilker
Grab your blanket, your favorite meal, and a friend (or go solo). Park in the nearby free gravel parking lot and walk over to Zilker Park, which is over 351-acres, so you will not have a hard time claiming your spot on the green. I recommend going in the evening before sunset so you can enjoy the scenery.
Things to Do Outside in Austin
These are just a few of many suggestions I have for outdoorsy things to do around Austin, TX! I hope you can get out there and enjoy one of these places and remember to keep these spaces clean – Leave No Trace.
What is your favorite outdoorsy thing to do in Austin or your city?! Let me know in the comments below.
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