Austin’s top 5 outdoor activities for summer

Summer is a time to be outside, and Austin doesn’t disappoint when it comes to outdoor activities. From hiking to swimming, the hippest city in Texas offers something for everyone. 

This park is referred to as “the jewel in the heart of Austin,” and it’s easy to see why. Sitting in the shadow of the city’s skyline, the popular green space offers 351 acres dedicated to running, jogging, biking, swimming, and hiking. Stop to smell the roses in the botanical garden, burn some calories on the volleyball court, or kayak around Lady Bird Lake. This metropolitan park is a great summertime destination for the entire family. 

Where: 2100 Barton Springs Road

Located inside Zilker Park, this 3-acre pool is fed from underground springs and boasts an average temperature of 68 degrees, making it the perfect place to escape the Texas heat. It’s popular with locals and visitors alike and happens to be where Hollywood legend Robert Redford learned to swim as a child. If you’re interested in learning more about the springs that feed into the pool, be sure to check out the Splash! exhibit located next to the bathhouse. 

Where: 2201 Barton Springs Road

This former home once belonged to Clara Driscoll, a Texan businesswoman and philanthropist. The house and grounds have an Italian flair, due to Driscoll’s love for Lake Como, Italy. The site is now home to Contemporary Austin’s outdoor sculpture park, which features modern installations alongside a picturesque view of Lake Austin. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a peaceful afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Where: 3809 W 35th Street

Cheer on the Round Rock Express minor league baseball team as they take on their opponents at Dell Diamond. The ballpark hosts various events all summer, including discounted beer on ‘Thirsty Thursdays’ and a spectacular fireworks show on Fridays. Bargain hunters can head out to the field on Tuesdays for half-price tickets, and dog owners can bring their pooches on ‘Bark in the Park’ days. A list of scheduled events can be found on the Dell Diamond website. 

Where: 3400 E Palm Valley Boulevard, Round Rock

Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choices at this natural attraction, which offers guests a variety of ways to enjoy Mother Nature. Hikers can choose from over a dozen trails ranging from easy to difficult, and rock climbers can test their skills at the well-known limestone wall known as the Enclave. Mountain bikers can hit the rocky paths, while swimmers take a dip in the Twin Falls swimming hole. Needless to say, this outdoor destination is a great place to spend a summer day. 

Where: 3755 S Capital of Texas Highway

From adventure activities to enjoying an old-fashioned game of baseball, the capital of Texas offers an abundance of ways to enjoy the great outdoors this summer.