Outdoor Date Ideas In Austin, TX
There’s nothing better than a peaceful date out in nature—just you, your partner, and the great outdoors.
Austin offers a variety of places perfect for a romantic outing for a date or Valentine’s Day. Here’s a list highlighting several beautiful spots to visit, along with some local food recommendations to keep the good times rolling after your date!
Explore Scenic Gardens at Zilker Botanical Garden
Photo Source: Zilker Botanical Garden
Nestled in the heart of downtown lies Zilker Botanical Garden. Walk hand in hand through the Isamu Taniguchi Japanese Garden, look at the Koi-filled ponds, and learn about the thousands of Texas native plants. The garden is open to the public seven days a week, year-round, and there is a fee to enter.
Stop here next: Stop for a delicious meal at Pool Burger!
Visit the Troll at Pease Park
Pease Park is a gem nestled in the heart of Austin. Take a stroll on the trails, visit the Malin’s Fountain troll, grab a snack from the nearby food trucks, and don’t miss the Tree House!
Address: 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX 78703
Stop here next: Shop for outdoor gear at Whole Earth Provisions or enjoy a lobster roll at Garbos.
Go For a Stroll at Laguna Gloria
Sculpture: Tom Friedman, Looking Up, 2015
Wander through gardens covered with beautiful sculptures, enjoy views of Lake Austin, and explore the serene hiking trails on the grounds of Laguna Gloria. There is a small entrance fee, but you can visit for free on Thursdays!
Address: 3809 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
Stop here next: Head to All Day + Flo’s Wine Bar for pizza and drinks.
Ride a Retro Boat on Lady Bird LAke
Photo Source: Retro Boat Rentals
I always say that there is no better way to see a place than on the water - especially in a vintage Retro Boat. This activity is a little pricier, but it’s a unique experience that will give you a different perspective of the lake and Austin’s skyline. Grab one with your partner, bring some drinks, and zoom around the lake together!
Address: 74 Trinity St., Austin, TX 78701, US
Stop here next: Wander over to South Congress from the trail and grab lunch at Veracruz Tacos.
Visit the Inner Space Caverns
Photo Source: Inner Space Caverns
Inner Space Caverns is such a fun spot to explore! It’s a cave system up near Georgetown that is thousands of years old with cool rock formations, and it’s about 80 degrees within the cave year-round. If you want to get down and dirty, check out the wild cave tour they offer!
Stop here next: If you are a seafood lover like me, head over to Fish City Grill!
Jump into a Swimming Hole
Krause Springs, June 2023
Jumping into a swimming hole when it feels like 115°F outside is so healing. Take a dip in Krause Springs, Barton Springs, and Deep Eddy Pools. Don’t forget to do your research before visiting a swimming hole; sometimes reservations are needed, glass is prohibited, etc.
Go Camping at a Nearby Park
There’s nothing more romantic than sleeping under the stars. There is an endless list of parks that you could camp at with your partner near Austin, TX. Check out Texas State Parks, and if you are looking for quieter locations, check out LCRA Parks! I’d recommend Lake Bastrop South Shore if you are looking to stay close to the city and Inks Lake State Park if you want to travel out a bit and have beautiful lake views.
Romantic Spots Around Austin, TX
There’s no better way to make memories with the person you love than by exploring the great outdoors together. I hope you’ll check out one of these activities for an upcoming date.
This list is just the beginning. Austin has countless spots for romantic hikes. If you’re looking for more inspiration, don’t miss my guide featuring 24 trails of all lengths and difficulty levels!
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