Top 5 Picnic Spots In Austin

May 24

Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner, leaving many eager to enjoy the warm weather and sunny skies. If you’re in the mood for a meal in the great outdoors, today’s list features five spots for a springtime picnic in the best parks in Austin for picnics.

360 Bridge Overlook

Also known as Pennybacker Bridge, this scenic overlook offers picturesque views of the Austin skyline. A short 10-minute hike to the summit rewards visitors with views of Texas Hill Country and the shining Colorado River. It’s the perfect spot for a late-afternoon picnic on a warm spring day. The 360 Overlook is also quite popular with bird watchers, and dogs are welcome to join their owners on the trail.

Mount Bonnell

Recognized as the highest point in Austin, the peak of Mount Bonnell also provides stunning views of Pennybacker Bridge and the capitol city. Hikers of all skill levels can reach the mountain’s peak in around 30 minutes, where you’ll find convenient picnic tables and a shaded stone pavilion that are perfect for an outdoor lunch. History buffs will find the mountain to be quite interesting as well: the peak is named in honor of George Bonnell, who served as Commissioner of Indian Affairs for the Texas Republic.

Mueller Lake Park

Spanning 30 acres of lush greenery, Muller Lake Park offers an open-air amphitheater, playground, jogging trails and public art installations, as well as a specialized “picnic peninsula.” Park amenities surround a 6.5 acre lake, and the grounds are open to the public seven days a week, from 5 AM to 11 PM. Plan your picnic for a Sunday afternoon and partake in the public farmer’s market, offering everything from fresh produce and honey to homemade dog treats.

Zilker Park

Nestled in the heart of downtown Austin, Zilker Park is a 361-acre preserve offering scenic picnic facilities along with a large playground, disc golf course, bike and canoe rentals and Barton Springs Pool: fed by natural spring water. The park is open seven days a week, 5 AM to 10 PM. Special events take place at Zilker throughout the year, including the Austin City Limits Music Festival and the Austin Kite Festival.

Barton Creek Greenbelt

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a 12-mile stretch of hiking trails and picnic spots, accessible from a variety of points throughout Austin. Visitors to the Greenbelt can enjoy a day of hiking, cycling, bouldering and swimming, all along the refreshing waters of Barton Creek. Access points include Trail Head, Spyglass Access, Barton Hills, Gus Fruh Access, Gains Twin Falls and Trails End.

What’s your favorite Austin picnic spot? Let us know in the comments!