Spring has sprung and you’re looking for a getaway to shake away the heavy skies of winter. Austin, Texas is just the destination, with its strong balance of city life and refreshing outdoor venues. From downtown Austin, you can easily spend the day swimming in a soothing geothermal pool and exploring vibrant fields of wildflowers and the evening dining and drinking your way through the city’s top nightlife scene. Spring spent in Austin is the perfect way to reset your mind and begin a new season with a fresh start. Be sure to include some of these top spring activities in Austin, TX, on your itinerary!
Walk Among Wildflowers
Spring is a great time to wander among the many wildflowers that grow in Austin and in the surrounding Hill Country. Located in Austin, the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center has over 600 native Texas plant species throughout its gardens and along nature trails that provide a spectacular backdrop for an afternoon stroll. During spring, expect to see species such as primrose, daisy, and yucca, among many others. You can also head out to the Hill Country on a short road trip that will take you along meadows and valleys filled with the bright hues of bluebonnets. There’s even a festival centered around the Bluebonnet in early April, featuring live music, art, and more in nearby Burnet.
Spend Spring at the Springs
…The Barton Springs Pool, that is! Situated in the massive Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool itself is 3 acres and is fed from warm underground springs. With spring temperatures in Austin hovering in the 70s and 80s, spring is a great season for taking a mid-day swim. Surrounded by the sprawling grassy lawn of Zilker Park, plan to make a day of it picnicking at this spot favored by both residents and visitors.
Attend a Festival
Zilker Park is also the site of many of Austin’s top festivals, and you’ll find the events calendar coming alive throughout the spring months with something for every interest. SXSW brings together a wide range of topics and people to create perhaps one of Austin’s most diverse festivals. Held in March, SXSW offers a wide variety of keynotes, film screenings, and showcases that bring together the topics of tech, film, music, education, and culture all into one venue. Try to keep from laughing out loud at the Moontower Just For Laughs comedy festival held in April, and round out the season feasting on unique eats at the Hot Luck Festival in May. Be sure to check Austin’s event calendar before your spring getaway to see what exciting Austin festivals will be occurring during your stay!
Explore Austin’s Outdoor Dining Scene
It’s no secret that Austin is a great destination for foodies. And due to its casual vibe, you won’t have to break the bank to try some of Austin’s best eats. Spring in Austin is a great time to explore some of the city’s outdoor dining venues, before the more intense heat of summer arrives. Austin has its share of eateries with sprawling patios perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal as you watch the world go by. Loro has a spacious patio complete with tree swings that create an easy breezy backyard vibe. The multi-level patio built around an ancient oak tree at Aba Austin is another favorite, located along the popular South Congress. And the simplicity and bustling location of Guero’s Taco Bar is always a favorite for experiencing a taste of Austin. Don’t discount the food truck scene that is also alive and well in Austin, where you can find anything from fresh-pulled pasta like those at Patrizi’s to a savory slice of cheesecake at Bearded Baking Company. Enjoy the beautiful spring weather and chill Austin vibe from any of these outdoor dining venues in Austin!
Get Outside
Along with Zilker Park and Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center, there are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors even from the heart of the city. The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a favorite for walking, biking, and even swimming. Make your way to Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls, two areas along the Greenbelt known for their watering holes and rocky playgrounds. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is another favorite, offering a ten-mile route that soaks in views of waterways and the Austin skyline. To get a birds’ eye view of it all, consider making the trek up to the top of Mount Bonnell, which offers scenic views over the city’s skyline and waterways.
Relax & Rejuvenate at your Austin Vacation Rental
In between Austin adventures, be sure to have accommodations you look forward to returning to. A comfortable vacation rental where you can sip a local brew and end the evening relaxing in complete comfort is the perfect way to end a spring day in Austin. Browse our Austin spring vacation rentals here or contact us to learn more!
