Zilker Metropolitan Park

Looking for an immersive, inexpensive outdoor experience that will appeal to nature, music, and adventure lovers alike? Look no further than the Zilker Metropolitan Park.

The park's conception dates back to 1917, when Andrew Jackson Zilker, a businessman and philanthropist, donated the land to the city to create a public space that enhances residents' and visitors' quality of life. 

Since then, Zilker Metropolitan Park has burgeoned into a hub of endless activities, from kayaking on Lady Bird Lake to the iconic Austin City Limits Music Festival. 

It is also home to Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Botanical Garden, Austin Nature and Science Center, Zilker Clubhouse, Girl Scout Lodge, Sunshine Camp, Zilker Hillside Theater, Zilker Caretaker Lodge, Umlauf Sculpture Gardens, McBeth Recreation Center, and the Butler Hike and Bike Trail.

Zilker Metropolitan Park's rich history mirrors Austin's evolution, intertwining its cultural ascent with the preservation of natural beauty.

Fun Facts & Cool Features

Zilker Metropolitan Park is 350 acres brimming with distinctive features and intriguing tidbits. The park is home to the Barton Springs Pool, a spring-fed swimming oasis maintaining a cool temperature year-round. This natural pool attracts swimmers and sunbathers eager to dip in its crystal-clear waters amidst the Texas heat.

The park boasts the Zilker Botanical Garden, a green treasure featuring themed gardens, including a prehistoric dinosaur garden.

Zilker Park is the perfect go-to for families on an Austin vacation. With a pavilion that can be rented, three picnic areas, Zilker Playscape, and a disc golf course, it will provide hours of outdoor fun. 

Theater and music lovers will want to check the park's schedule of events at the Zilker Hillside Theater. Music concerts range from jazz to Americana, while the Shakespeare festival will appeal to drama and literature lovers.  

Furthermore, the park provides a unique view of the Austin skyline, especially enchanting during sunset, making it a favored spot for photographers and nature lovers.

Visiting Zilker Metropolitan Park is a must on any Austin itinerary. Whether looking for a serene spot for meditation, family picnics, an adventurous day out, or a cultural experience, Zilker is a microcosm of Austin's diverse charm. 

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions:

• Start on E 6th St, heading west towards Congress Ave in the heart of Downtown Austin.
• Merge onto S Congress Ave and head south for about 1 mile.
• Turn right onto Barton Springs Rd; continue for approximately 0.5 miles.
• Make a slight left turn to stay on Barton Springs Rd; you will see the entrance to Zilker Metropolitan Park on your left after about 0.2 miles.
• Address: 2207 Lou Neff Rd, Austin, TX 78746 

Cost

Entrance to the park itself is free, but there are other costs to consider:

• Parking fee: $5 per vehicle on weekends and holidays (March–September).
• Barton Springs Pool entry: $9 for adults (residents), $5 for juniors (12-17), and $4 for children (1-11).
• Zilker Botanical Garden admission: $8 for adults, $4 for children (3-17), and free for children under 3.

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.