It may not be the first location that comes to mind for nature and wildlife journey, but Austin, Texas will exceed your expectations. This state capital features incredible nature and wildlife locations that need to be seen to be believed.
Day 1: Austin Nature & Science Center
Experience over 80 acres of wildlife in Austin Texas at an educational facility that is perfect for kids but can be accessed by all ages. The Austin Nature & Science Center provides educational exhibits that highlight local wildlife and even takes it back millions of years with replicas of dinosaur fossils. The dinosaur tracks will take you around this vast oasis in the busy Texas city.
2389 Stratford Dr
Austin, TX 78746
Open Monday through Saturday 9:00am – 5:00pm, Sundays 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Day 2: Zilker Botanical Garden
The Zilker Botanical Garden is one of the largest outdoor complexes in the state of Texas and is also known as “The Jewel in the Heart of Austin.” You can explore over 26 acres of Japanese gardens with streams, koi-filled ponds, and waterfalls.
2220 Barton Springs Rd
Austin, TX 78746
Open daily from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Day 3: Austin Zoo
You cannot make a trip to Austin without making a stop at the Austin Zoo. This non-profit rescue zoo features incredible animals who are in need of rehabilitation. Notable exhibits include the cougar enclosure and alligator habitat.
10808 Rawhide Trail
Austin, TX 78736
Open daily from 9:30 am – 5:30 pm
Day 4: Austin Aquarium
Once you have visited the animals of the land, take a visit into the creatures of the deep with a visit to Austin Aquarium. This all-ages center is perfect to explore the many fascinating animals that call the deep ocean their home. Thousands of different aquatic animals can be viewed in numerous displays and exhibits.
13530 US-183 #101
Austin, TX 78750
Open daily from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Day 5: Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
Enjoy a peaceful afternoon overlooking Lake Austin from the Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve. Previously named the Mayfield-Gutsch Estate, this historical site is a wonderful nature preserve that even includes free-roaming peacocks. You can explore the luscious surroundings, including the original cottage and gardens.
3505 W 35th St
Austin, TX 78703
Open daily from 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Day 6: Barton Springs Pool
Situated within the serene grounds of Zilker Park in downtown Austin, Barton Springs Pool is the perfect spot to take a dip on a warm Austin day. While the word “pool” might bring to mind crowded, pavement lined swimming holes scented of chlorine, the Barton Springs Pool is actually fed by a natural spring – the fourth largest spring in Texas. The pool spreads across three acres, and because the waters come from a natural underground spring, a steady temperature of 68-70 degrees remains year-round. Keep an eye out for the endangered Barton Springs Salamander while enjoying your swim! No matter the season that coincides with your visit to Austin, be sure to set aside some time to relax and float in Barton Springs Pool. While a narrow strip of pavement lines the poolside and serves as a great launching point for entering the water with a splash, gently sloped grassy areas make up the remainder of the poolside setting, creating a natural environment for picnicking, sunbathing, and taking a break from the water.
2131 William Barton Dr
Austin, TX 78746
Open daily from 5:00 am – 10:00 pm
Day 7: Barton Creek Greenbelt
Austin is a city that caters well to both true city dwellers as well as those who enjoy some quality time spent in nature. The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a perfect example of the intertwinement of development and nature. This network of trails offers 12 miles of adventure possibilities right through the heart of Austin. Popular activities along the Greenbelt include hiking, biking, rock-climbing, bouldering, swimming, or lazing the day away along the banks of Barton Creek. The Greenbelt has many access points which can be selected based on convenience to your vacation rental as well as your intended activities for the day. Gus Fruh is an area of the Greenbelt popular for rock climbing and swimming, while the Main Access Point is ideal for launching hikes to Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls. All along the Greenbelt, nature lovers will enjoy scenic, varied terrain that includes rocky trails, steep cliffs, shade trees, swimming holes, and scenic views. The Barton Creek Greenbelt has seven access points. The main access point offers ample parking.
Barton Creek Greenbelt Main Access Point
3755-B Capital of Texas Highway
Austin, TX 78704
Explore The Wildlife in Austin Texas
Explore these incredible nature and wildlife reserves during your next stay in Austin. Enjoy our selection of privately-owned vacation rentals that will place you just minutes from each destination. Easily book online today and get ready for your nature and wildlife getaway. When you book with us at Austin Vacation Rentals, you can rest assured that you’ll enjoy top-notch accommodations in Austin’s most desirable neighborhoods. Come enjoy all that Austin has to offer!
