What is Barton Springs?
Barton Springs is a blend of engineering and nature. Built around one of three springs in Zilker Park and the only accessible one, the pool is merely a boundary to retain the warm spring waters that keep a temp around 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Below the shimmering blue waters, a raw rock bed from the springs' more untouched days, a backdrop of urban snorkeling with schools of freshwater fish, turtles, crawdads, and even the elusive protected salamander. With a picturesque hill for sunbathing, two dams holding the pool on either end and a historic bath house with open-air changing rooms, this is far from your typical city pool.
Is Barton Springs worth visiting?
Frankly, you can’t afford not to. With affordable admission for visitors, admission is a small price to experience this unique urban oasis. From the fantastic people-watching along the grassy grounds to the skyline views peaking in over the lush landscape of Zilker outside the pool fencing, its reviving waters will leave any visitor eager to come back for more.
What's the best way to see Barton Springs?
While the best bet to escape the scorching heat that can start as early as May and end as late as October in town, the year-round temps turn the springs into a warm secret during Austin’s mild winters. The constant 68 degrees can feel warm as the air temps dip below 60, and the sparse winter crowds can turn this beloved landmark into a personal paradise.
What's good to eat near Barton Springs?
Outside the main entrance to Zilker, Barton Springs Road hosts plenty of good and iconic local bites, but the best is a new arrival, Zoé Tong. Inspired by the hole-in-the-wall culinary style of Chinese Alleyways, this latest addition is the perfect spot to carbo-load noodles after exploring the park and pool.