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The Best Neighborhood Parks in Austin

  • By Meher Qazilbash
  • March 30, 2024

There’s no doubt that spending time outdoors is wonderful for your health and boosts your overall spirits, and that can feel especially true here in Austin. Here is our list of some of the city’s most beautiful and welcoming neighborhood parks for multi-generational enjoyment and memory-making.

Photo courtesy of Mueller Lake Park

Mueller Lake Park

4550 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX, 78723

Situated in the center of the Mueller neighborhood, this park is a 30-acre oasis for unplugging and occupying yourself with nature and community. While the standout feature is the glimmering 6.5 acre lake, other features include a multi-purpose event space, easy walk and hike opportunities, interactive playscapes and public art.

Photo courtesy of Austin Parks and Recreation Department

Parque Zaragoza Park

2608 Gonzales St, Austin, TX, 78702

Located in East Austin, Parque Zaragoza Park is a historic space that provides an abundance of opportunities for amusement. Treat yourself to its many amenities, including a swimming pool, a playground, grills and BBQ pits, an outdoor stage, an outdoor basketball court, a sand volleyball court and a field to be used for any activity of your choosing.

Photo courtesy of Austin Parks and Recreation Department

Zilker Metropolitan Park

310 W. Willie Nelson Blvd.

One of the most iconic and beloved destinations in Austin, Zilker Park spans over 350 acres, all dedicated to fun, leisure and beauty. With a backdrop of the city’s magnificent skyline, get your friends together to enjoy the picnic facilities, bike/canoe rentals, a disc golf course, a large playground, the Zilker Zephyr train, Barton Springs Pool and the vast grounds of greenery.

Photo courtesy of Austin Parks and Recreation Department

Ramsey Park

4301 Rosedale Ave, Austin, TX, 78756

Tucked in the Rosedale neighborhood, this hidden gem is a great place to stay active. Make use of the tennis courts, basketball court, playgrounds, baseball diamond, barbecue facilities and the swimming pool during the scorching summer days.

Photo courtesy of Austin Parks and Recreation Department

Pease Park

1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX, 78703

One of Texas’ first public parks, the historic Pease Park is an 84-acre greenspace known for its innovative and distinguished architecture designs, as well as its immersive experiences. Glory in their miles of trails, athletic courts and recently developed Kingsbury Commons, which features a splash pad, a massive treehouse and more.

Photo courtesy of Austin Parks and Recreation Department

Patterson Park

4200 Brookview Rd., Austin, TX, 78722

For the sporty and active, this East Austin park is a wonderful spot to get moving and practice your hobbies. Make use of the courts, play on the field, swim in the pool, go skating or put your green thumb to use in the community garden.

Photo courtesy of Waterloo Greenway Conservancy

Waterloo Park

500 E 12th St, Austin, TX, 78701

An 11-acre sanctuary for park visitors, bask in the gorgeous and recently revitalized outdoor greenspace. Waterloo Park contains gathering spaces, the lush Hill Country Garden with native Texas flora, the grand open theater Moody Amphitheater, hike-and-bike trails, food trucks and more attractions.

Photo courtesy of Austin Parks and Recreation Department

Brentwood Park

6710 Arroyo Seco, Austin, TX, 78757

Central to the quaint neighborhood of Brentwood is this ideal space for lounging and recreation. Offering a little bit of everything, enjoy the open grounds that welcome field sports and picnics or the playground for kids to roam and explore.

Photo courtesy of Domain Central Park

Domain Central Park

11100 Alterra Pkwy, Austin, TX, 78758

A North Austin treat located right by some of Austin’s most popular shops and restaurants, Domain Central Park provides a laid-back break from the urban frenzy. Bring a ball, frisbee or perhaps your puppy to the neighboring dog park and appreciate the open air.

Photo by Chase Fountain

McKinney Falls State Park

5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX, 78744

Park goers who wish to take their endeavors up a notch can experience the best of Texas’ natural beauty in this state park located in South Austin. Relish in the picturesque setting while camping, hiking, biking, climbing, fishing or swimming in the magnificent Onion Creek.

Photo courtesy of Austin Parks & Recreation

Mary Moore Searight Metro Park

907 West Slaughter Lane, Austin, TX 78748

Nestled in South Austin, Mary Moore Searight Metro Park offers a serene retreat with its sprawling trails and picturesque scenery. The park provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for outdoor enthusiasts, from tranquil strolls to disc golf games to adventurous mountain biking trails.