Top Places to Take a Splash Summertime Fun In + Around Austin

Just 13 miles from the state capitol, you can camp, hike, mountain or road bike, geochache, go bouldering and picnic surrounded by rugged beauty. In this state park near Austin, Onion Creek and Williamson Creek are great choices for swimming and fishing. A group hall with kitchen is available to rent for up to 75 people.

Set your GPS to 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744. (And don’t forget about the other great state parks near Austin.)

A man-made pool supplied by a natural spring caters to adults and kids alike. In the morning, active patrons swim laps before the day begins. Come afternoon, the pool is full of kids soaking up the summer sun. Looking for laid-back family activities near you? Be sure to check out their Splash Party Movie Nights featuring a family-friendly film on an inflatable movie screen.

Set your GPS to 401 Deep Eddy Avenue, Austin, TX 78703.

Austin is home to several greenbelts (a term used in urban planning that means it’s off-limits to development), but the most loved is Barton Creek. “The Greenbelt,” as locals know it, is home to plunging hillsides with hidden pools and creeks that beckon swimmers and explorers. The limestone cliffs typically keep the waters serene and clear.

Set your GPS to 3755 S. Capital of Texas Highway, Austin, TX 78704.

This 70? watering hole, a 3-acre pool entirely fed by natural underground springs, is ideal for year-round swimming and perfect for family activities during the sweltering summer. Save your cash by waking early as admission to Barton Springs Pool is only charged 8 AM - 8 PM.

Set your GPS to 2201 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78746.
 

Never leave the hotel and cool down in a sexy Lone Star-adorned splash pool as you snack on small bites from AKB at Archer Hotel Austin. Favorites include the Parmesan-dusted truffle fries and the artisanal cheese and charcuterie board. Or opt for a drink, such as the Catalina Breeze made with house-infused herbal vodka, limoncello, pink grapefruit sparkling water, sauvignon blanc syrup and lemon — crisp, tart and so refreshing. Hanging by the pool is one of the most relaxing things to do in Austin.

Set your GPS to 3121 Palm Way, Austin, TX 78758, and make your hotel reservation online before you arrive.
 

Have a hankering for even more fun things to do in Austin? Just a short drive away are gorgeous spots to explore:

• Hamilton Pool Preserve — Gorgeous and iconic, a natural pool with a 50-foot waterfall, collapsed grotto, canyon and a steep, rugged hiking trail that leads to the pool. (Reservations for swimming for a maximum of eight people are required).
• Krause Springs — With 32 natural springs, an awe-inspiring swimming pool, a picturesque waterfall and plenty of opportunities for camping and hiking; listed on the National Registry of Historical Sites.
• Comal River — A fun day of floating — head to the nearest river outfitter for a tube, then journey downstream in the refreshing 72-degree river.