Amidst the fast-paced energy of downtown Austin, finding time to enjoy the outdoors can be a challenge. Whether you’re in search of a quiet spot for a walk, a place to break a sweat or just a breath of fresh air, the city offers plenty of parks to enjoy the Austin sunshine.
As a resident at Paseo, you’re in the perfect location to enjoy some of the best green spaces in Austin. From waterfront trails to scenic picnic spots, these parks offer a refreshing escape just minutes from your front door.
For this reason, we’ve compiled this list of what we consider to be the five best parks in downtown Austin.
Top 5 Parks in Downtown Austin
1. Zilker Park
Distance from Paseo: 10-minute drive
Address: Austin, TX 78746
Best For: Running, picnicking, outdoor festivals
Arguably Austin’s most famous park, Zilker Park is a 350-acre outdoor oasis filled with hiking trails, open green spaces and iconic attractions like Barton Springs Pool. It’s the perfect place for an afternoon picnic, a game of frisbee or paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake. Whether you’re up for a workout or a relaxing day in the sun, Zilker is a must-visit.
Paseo pick: Kick off your morning with a paddle on Lady Bird Lake, then unwind with a sunny picnic at Zilker Park.
2. Auditorium Shores at Lady Bird Lake
Distance from Paseo: 7-minute drive
Address: 900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
Best For: Dog owners, skyline views
This expansive waterfront park is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and dog owners alike. Featuring wide open lawns, an off-leash dog area and access to Lady Bird Lake, it’s a perfect spot for a morning jog or an afternoon picnic. The park is also a popular venue for live music events and festivals, making it a lively gathering space throughout the year.
Paseo pick: Bring your pup to the off-leash area for a play session, then stroll along the lakefront paths and enjoy skyline views. Pro tip: It’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset with downtown’s skyline as your backdrop.
3. Butler Metro Park
Distance from Paseo: 8-minute drive
Address: 1000 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Best For: Running, skyline views, outdoor yoga
With stunning skyline views, a serene pond and open green spaces, Butler Metro Park is a peaceful retreat just minutes from downtown. The park is home to the Doug Sahm Hill, a popular lookout point where you can take in panoramic views of the city. Whether you’re jogging along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail or catching live music at the amphitheater, this park is a local favorite.
Paseo pick: Catch a panoramic city view from Doug Sahm Hill at sunset (perfect for date night). If you’re up early, take a sunrise run along the Butler Trail and reward yourself with coffee from Merit on your way home.
4. Republic Square
Distance from Paseo: 7-minute drive
Address: 422 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701
Best For: Farmers markets, reading outdoors
Located just a few blocks from Paseo, Republic Square is a historic green space in the middle of the city. It’s home to the SFC Farmers’ Market every Saturday, where you can shop for fresh produce, coffee and artisanal goods. The park also features plenty of seating and shaded areas, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a lunch break or catch up on some reading.
Paseo pick: Spend your Saturday morning at the SFC Farmers’ Market—stock up on local veggies, fresh bread and flowers to brighten up your kitchen.
5. Waterloo Park
Distance from Paseo: 8-minute drive
Address: 500 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78701
Best For: Walking, concerts
After an extensive renovation, Waterloo Park has become one of Austin’s most exciting green spaces. The park features winding trails, scenic gardens and the Moody Amphitheater, which hosts concerts and community events throughout the year.
Paseo pick: Check out a concert at the Moody Amphitheater. In between shows, stroll through the gardens or bring a blanket for an outdoor reading session.
6. Waller Beach at Town Lake Metropolitan Park
Distance from Paseo: 10-minute walk
Address: 30 East Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Best For: Kayaking, walking
Right across the street from Paseo, Waller Beach offers direct access to Lady Bird Lake and is a great spot for kayaking, paddleboarding and jogging along the trail. This dog-friendly, free-to-enter park offers plenty of space for outdoor activities and relaxation, along with the convenience of on-site public restrooms.
Paseo Pick: Bring your laptop with you for a remote work session by the water.
We hope this guide helps you explore some of Austin’s best parks. If you have any questions about the downtown Austin lifestyle, the Paseo team is always happy to help!
Jordyn Brown
Jordyn is a regular contributing author for Paseo, covering leasing tips and all things downtown Austin. She has 2 years of experience in multifamily leasing and marketing. In her free time, you'll find Jordyn on a run, trying out new activities, or spending time with her dog, Fletcher.
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