In East Austin, there’s never a shortage of things to do, especially when it comes to outdoor activities! Aside from the popular bars and restaurants that continue to pour into the Eastside, ample green spaces allow residents and tourists alike to escape from the city and experience nature at its best. In this article, we will highlight the six most beautiful parks in East Austin that are perfect for the whole family.
Boggy Creek Greenbelt
1114 Nile St, Austin, TX 78702
The Boggy Creek Greenbelt is a nature oasis in East Austin that is perfect for a quick stroll along the creek or a relaxing picnic by the water. Spanning 1.6 miles, the trail starts on at MLK Jr. Neighborhood Park, traveling through Downs-Mabson Ball Feilds down to 12th Street. From there, the trail heads south through the Greenbelt and passes near the Rosewood Neighborhood Park. The nature trail is open to pedestrians, cyclists, and leashed dogs.
Walter E. Long Metro Park
6620 Blue Bluff Rd, Austin, TX 78724
Located just a short drive from the heart of East Austin, Walter E. Long Metro Park is the largest park in East Austin. The park is the perfect destination for a quiet and relaxing afternoon outing, with 24.6 miles of walking and biking trails, picnic tables, a barbecue pit, and quick access to Lake Walter E. Long. In April of this year, the city began renovating the park, specifically focusing on the existing Lakeside Park area and while reinforcing the site’s infrastructure. These improvements will help sustain park operations until implementation of vision plan elements can begin in the future.
Givens District Park
3811 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78721
If you are looking for parks in East Austin with recreational activities, Givens District Park offers a swimming pool, softball fields, playgrounds, and large picnic areas. Additionally, the Givens Recreation Center located in the park offers access to a gym, kitchens, meeting rooms, art classes, and various adult programs. This is the perfect place to take a walk, go for a swim, or check out the social scene. In recent news, the city of Austin has given approval for a $6M renovation for the Givens Aquatic Facility Renovation Project coming in 2023.
Blair Woods Nature Preserve
5401 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78721
Blair Woods is a 10-acre urban oasis open to all members of the community for hands-on nature immersion in East Austin. A nature trail loop traces a pond, prairie, spring, and woodlands. Along the way, signs featuring Rusty the Lizard describe the local habitat and the many birds, plants, insects, and animals that call Blair Woods home. The nature reserve is free for the public and is open from 10:00am – 4:00pm.
Meuller Lake Park
4550 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723
Located on Aldrich Street in the heart of the award-winning Mueller community, Meuller Lake Park is the perfect place to take a stroll on the 3.0-mile loop trail, grab a bite to eat, or just relax by the lake with the ducks. The park also has an interactive playscape, an open-air amphitheater, and a picnic peninsula. At Mueller Lake Park, you will always see individuals, friends, and families enjoying the great outdoors.
Lady Bird Lake Hike & Bike Trail
2 Robert T Martinez Jr St, Austin, TX 78702
The Hike and Bike Trail is a great place for a leisurely ride or stroll, with over 10 miles of walking and biking trails that take you from East Austin all the way into downtown. You can get several miles in without committing to a strenuous day or sacrificing scenery. The low grade, ease of access, safety features, and amenities make the trail a perfect place for families to spend days together. The trail is also an excellent place for visitors, giving a visual introduction to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, whether looking for a spring-fed pool, a park, or a cozy spot to get your feet wet along the lake.
East Austin boasts a collection of stunning parks that offer an ideal setting for a perfect afternoon walk. Whether you’re seeking a serene escape or a place for recreational activities, these six parks have something to offer everyone.