Zilker Metropolitan Park

It was our first time visit the park for trail of lights and we reserved for the shuttle service included admission. There was plenty of parking available but there was no direction on where the buses were . We circled around the parking to the other side until we saw the buses lining up. However once you are there. They set up the ticking system where it was easy to pick up and you are ready to board the bus . The good thing about going with the shuttle is that you don't have to wait in line to get into the event and they have the same pickup and drop off point so you just need to remember the last time frame they do the pickup. I like they have restrooms and vendors before the gate. Once the event starts at 7. The process is really smooth we got in within 10 minutes and there were plenty of photo ops and different stations for the kids to enjoy. I don't feel the need to check on maps since there was only one direction. I loved they added live performance and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Since it's all walking I would say comfortable shoes and jacket are needed. Needless to say, we enjoy our time and would recommended anyone who wishes to check it out. There are free dates too and with inflation going on, the price and the activity and lighting is worth it in my opinion.

As a tourists, the best way to see, understand the historical significance of this area is to take a bike tour. We saw so much of the area and most importantly some one to explain what we were seeing. Like the Baton Springs pool to the giant park.

Zilker Metropolitan Park is a true gem in Austin! The park’s natural beauty is breathtaking, with wide open spaces, lush greenery, and stunning views of Lady Bird Lake. It’s a great spot for picnics, kayaking, or simply relaxing. Don’t miss the Barton Springs Pool, a refreshing spring-fed pool perfect for a hot day. The Zilker Botanical Garden and Umlauf Sculpture Garden add unique charm, and there are plenty of trails for walking or biking.

Zilker Park is a park located in the heart of downtown Austin near Lady Bird Lake. Established in 1917, it is home to picnic facilities, bike/canoe rentals, a disc golf course, a large playground for children, the Zilker Zephyr train, and Barton Springs Pool, an urban oasis where swimmers can splash in the spring-fed waters. The park is also home to major events such as the Austin City Limits Music Festival and the Austin Kite Festival. I (Andrew) recommend this park to anyone visiting Austin, Texas, as it is a natural retreat within an urban center.

Austin Light Trail in December is a lovely family experience. Parking is complicated as demand grows when Christmas gets close. 2 live performances on a Tuesday, wow! For the smores, it's nice to support the local vendors but as add on, next time I bring some marshmallows myself ;)

Quite possibly one of the most beautiful and perfect park spaces in the United States? Just an abundance of space all around… perfect for biking, running, walking, hiking, walking dogs, group events, kiddo stuff. ACL fest is the crown Jewel of music festivals but the Kite Fest, Trail of lights, Blues on the Green and so much more events are awesome as well! All of the paddle-board rental places are good but Rowing Dock is the best. Be kind to the trail!

Great place to hangout with friends. Kayak/Canoe with amazing view of the cityscapes. Short distance kayak with perfect sunset. The water is dirty and stinky at some places. Friendly and helpful staff at the kayak rentals. Parking is limited. Busy on weekends.

Great experience and an inexpensive adventure. I recommend coming early to get a spot at the river Bank. We rented Kayaks which was a Fantastic way to tour river and see Austin skyline at a distance. At the time of this post Barton Springs pool area was closed, not entirely sure why. Even so great time.