The Top Attractions in and around Barton Creek For Locals or Tourists

Barton Creek in Austin Texas, offers a wealth of attractions for both locals and tourists. The region has some of the best real estate in Greater Austin and is a great home base for exploring the area. Each destination, whether it’s a sprawling park or a more self-contained attraction, promises rewarding leisure for anyone considering a move to Barton Creek.

If you already live in the area or are looking into Barton Creek real estate, the following activities and attractions will surely enrich your experience.

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over 12 miles, this greenbelt offers hiking and biking trails that wind through scenic landscapes. With limestone cliffs, dense foliage, and serene waterways, the Greenbelt is a natural escape within the city.

The trails are well-maintained and cater to various pedestrian activities, making them perfect for your morning jog, weekend bike ride, or swim at Twin Falls. Wildlife such as deer, birds, and various species of fish can be seen throughout the area, adding to the natural allure of the Greenbelt.

The Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is a luxurious retreat offering many amenities and activities. This upscale resort features four championship golf courses designed by legendary architects, providing a challenging yet enjoyable experience. In addition to golf, the resort offers a full-service spa, multiple dining options, and a variety of recreational activities, including tennis and swimming. The Mokara Spa provides an array of treatments, from massages to facials, ensuring a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Over the years, Barton Creek has become a golfer’s paradise. The aforementioned Omni Resort has four exceptional courses. The Fazio Canyons course is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the country, known for its dramatic elevation changes and stunning Hill Country views. For a more traditional layout, the Palmer course offers a classic design with rolling fairways and strategic bunkering. The Fazio Foothills course, designed by Tom Fazio, is another standout. Barton Creek is also near many country clubs with swimming pools, fitness centers, fine dining, and other exclusive amenities.

The Domain offers a vibrant shopping and entertainment experience just outside of Barton Creek. Explore a variety of stores, from high-end fashion boutiques to popular chain retailers. Enjoy delicious dining options, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Catch a movie at the AMC theater, attend live music performances at the outdoor venue, or simply stroll through the stylish outdoor spaces.

Zilker Park is a standout urban park that’s become Austin’s iconic green space. In addition to the world-famous Barton Springs Pool, the park boasts expansive green spaces perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and flying kites. Visitors love exploring the Zilker Botanical Garden, home to many plants and flowers. Zilker Park hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the famous Austin City Limits Music Festival, attracting top musical acts and thousands of attendees. The park's location along Lady Bird Lake provides opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing.

Held every Saturday, the Barton Creek Farmers Market is the region’s signature marketplace. You can easily spend an afternoon browsing locally grown produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts. It’s an excellent opportunity to support local vendors while stocking your pantry for the week ahead. The Barton Creek Farmers Market is a fantastic place to find unique products or even register as a vendor yourself.

Lady Bird Lake is a scenic reservoir in the heart of Austin, just a short drive from Barton Creek. The calm waters and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect spot for water sports and leisurely outings. For many Austinites, it’s the go-to spot for kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing (boat rentals are available).In addition to water activities, the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail offers a picturesque route for walking, running, and cycling.

The Austin Zoo is a rescue zoo providing a nurturing environment for animals in need. The zoo is home to over 300 animals from more than 100 species, including lions, tigers, monkeys, and reptiles. The staff carries out the zoo’s mission to educate the public about animal welfare and conservation. Visitors of all ages can enjoy up-close encounters with various animals, not to mention the zoo’s educational programs and special events. Interactive exhibits and animal feeding sessions provide opportunities for hands-on learning and engagement.

The Barton Creek Habitat Preserve is a protected area that spans over 4,000 acres and is dedicated to conserving native wildlife and plant species. The preserve offers guided tours and educational programs, allowing visitors to learn about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts. The guided tours are led by knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the area's biodiversity and conservation strategies. The preserve's trails and observation points offer stunning views of the natural landscape, making it a great spot for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.

The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria is an art museum and sculpture park located in a historic villa along the shores of Lake Austin. The museum features a diverse collection of contemporary art and rotating exhibitions showcasing works by local, national, and international artists. The beautiful grounds include a sculpture park and the historic Driscoll Villa, which houses galleries and exhibition spaces. Laguna Gloria's stunning setting and vibrant art scene make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and those seeking inspiration.

Mount Bonnell, officially known as Covert Park, is an iconic Austin landmark offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Lake Austin. Standing at 775 feet above sea level, it's one of the highest points in Austin, making it a popular and picturesque destination for locals and tourists. The hike to the summit is relatively short but steep, rewarding visitors with stunning vistas upon reaching the top. It's a perfect spot to capture unforgettable photos, enjoy a romantic picnic, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of the city skyline.

Thinking of selling your home in the Barton Creek area? Beth Drewett, a cornerstone of Austin's real estate community for over 30 years, specializes in luxury homes, exclusive lakefront estates, and prime investment opportunities. As a long-time Barton Creek resident and the top agent in the area over the last five years, Beth offers unparalleled local expertise and a deep commitment to the community.

Beth is renowned for securing off-market properties and accessing exclusive listings, ensuring that every client benefits from her extensive experience and respected industry reputation. Her success is powered by the trust and satisfaction of clients who often return and refer others, highlighting the exceptional service she provides.

If you're interested in exploring Austin's luxury real estate market, reach out to Beth Drewett to discover how she can help you find your dream home or next investment.