Bluebonnet Austin
Every Spring, Texans look forward to stepping outside and seeing the beautiful state flower bloom. Families flock to parks and fields, trying to snap the best photos of their babies playing in the flowers. Austin bluebonnets fields can vary year to year, but thankfully, there are certain prime spots that seem to always flourish this time of year.
So if you are looking for ‘Bluebonnets Austin’ or ‘Bluebonnets trails Austin’ or even ‘Bluebonnets near Austin’ we have you covered with this list!
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Also, check out our recent posts on Free events at SXSW, Summer Camps in Austin, and Things to do in Austin this Weekend!
Bluebonnet Austin – Central Austin area bluebonnets
University of Texas at Austin
Image Credit: The University of Texas at Austin FB Page
A university campus with historic buildings and gardens.
When: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Where: 110 Inner Campus Drive, Austin, TX 78705
How Much: Free admission
Blanton Museum of Art
A museum with over 18,000 works of art from around the world.
When: Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Where: 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78712
How Much: $15 – Adult | $12 – Seniors (65+) | $ 8 – Youth & Non-UT College ID holders
Red Bud Isle
An island park with walking trails and river access for dogs to swim. Red Bud Isle Park is Austin’s #1 Dog Park! The park is supported by Friends of Red Bud Isle Volunteer.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 3401 Redbud Trail, Austin, TX 78746
How Much: Free admission
Pease District Park
Image Credit: Pease Park Conservancy FB Page
With stunning limestone bluffs, shaded trails, and rich cultural history, Pease Park makes Austin feel like Austin.
Pease Park Conservancy celebrates the diverse ecology and history that make Austin’s first public park valuable and unique. The Conservancy works to restore, enhance and maintain this 84-acre public green space for the sustainable use and enjoyment of all.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX 78703
How Much: Free admission
Lady Bird Lake
A lake with trails, boat rentals, and a boardwalk.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: Austin, TX
How Much: Free admission
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker Metropolitan Park is considered “Austin’s most-loved park.” This 351-acre metropolitan park is home to a variety of recreation opportunities, facilities, and special events for individuals and families.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: Free admission
Barton Creek Greenbelt
A park with hiking trails, swimming holes, and rock climbing. The Barton Creek Greenbelt has multiple entrances along the creek. Above are just some of the most popular entry points. The Violet Crown Trail runs through much of, but not entirely within, the Barton Creek Greenbelt.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: Free admission
Texas State Capitol
Image Credit: Texas State Capitol FB Page
A historic building with tours and exhibits. The granite Texas statehouse stands as a testament to the history of the Lone Star State. The Texas Capitol is widely recognized as one of the nation’s most distinguished state capitols. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986.
When: Open Monday to Friday from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm | Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Where: 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
How Much: Free admission
Laguna Gloria
Walking through the gates of The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria you feel like you’ve been transported far from the bustle of the city—although you are only five miles from downtown. Venture through the grounds to discover art by contemporary artists from around the world, from awe-inspiring monumental sculptures to quiet moments with art in nature along meditative wooded pathways.
In addition to its café, shop, and visitor center, Laguna Gloria is also home to the Driscoll Villa built in 1916, one of the most beloved venues for weddings and other private events in Austin. On the other side of the grounds is the Art School at The Contemporary, which provides students with opportunities to expand their creativity, enhance visual awareness, and cultivate technical skills in a wide variety of media.
When: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Where: 3809 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
How Much: Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and military, and free for children under 18
Bluebonnet Austin – Bluebonnets in North Austin areas
Brushy Creek Lake Park
Image Credit: cedarparktexas.gov
A large park with a lake, trails, and playgrounds.
When: Open half-hour before sunrise until 10 pm daily
Where: 3300 Brushy Creek Rd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
How Much: Free admission
Bull Creek District Park
A popular park with hiking trails, scenic views, mountain biking, volleyball, and swimming holes.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 6701 Lakewood Dr, Austin, TX 78731
How Much: Free admission
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
A large park with activities and amenities including hiking trails, swimming, mountain biking, a playground, volleyball, basketball, softball/baseball, horseshoes, dogs (off-leash), and running.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 12138 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin, TX 78753
How Much: Free admission
Pioneer Farms
A living history museum with historical buildings and exhibits.
When: Open Tuesdays through Fridays for guided history tours reserved in advance for schools and community groups of 15 or more, and Thursdays through Sundays for general public admission, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last admission daily at 4 p.m. Closed on Mondays and the last two weeks of each year.
Where: 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754
How Much: Adults $8, Youth (3-17) $6, seniors (65 and over) $6, and children 2 and under are free. Admission for groups of 20 or more is $5 each
Wells Branch Community Library
A library with a butterfly garden.
When: Open Monday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm | Friday and Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Sunday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Where: 15001 Wells Port Drive, Austin, TX 78728
How Much: Free admission
Balcones District Park
Image Credit: austinparks.org
A park with a pool, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 12017 Amherst Dr, Austin, TX 78759
How Much: Free admission
The Domain
A shopping center with restaurants, shops, and a movie theater.
When: Open daily, hours vary depending on the business
Where: 11410 Century Oaks Terrace, Austin, TX 78758
How Much: Free admission
Great Hills Neighborhood Park
Great Hills Park is a City of Austin neighborhood park in a beautiful hill country setting, tucked away in northwest Austin. More than 80 acres in size, the park includes a large natural area with hiking trails, a playscape, a covered pavilion, picnic tables, exercise equipment, and much more.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 10801 Sierra Oaks, Austin, TX 78759
How Much: Free admission
St. David’s North Austin Medical Center
A hospital with a courtyard garden.
When: Open daily, hours vary depending on the department
Where: 12221 N. Mo Pac Expressway, Austin, TX 78758
How Much: Free admission
Champion Park
Champion Park offers lots of open space, picnic tables, restrooms, parking, a fitness area, a covered children’s play area with castings of dinosaur bones to discover, a playscape and swings, and specially designed boulders for climbing.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 3830 Brushy Creek Rd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
How Much: Free admission
Beverly S. Sheffield Northwest District Park
Image Credit: austinparks.org
A park with a pool, basketball court, and picnic areas.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 7000 Ardath St, Austin, TX 78757
How Much: Free admission
Mayfield Park
A historic site with gardens and peacocks. Stepping into Mayfield Park is not unlike stepping into an oasis. Towering palm trees, lush gardens, and brilliant peacocks gather around the ponds, all of which are surrounded by a rock wall and the “desert” of a city beyond.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 3505 W. 35th St., Austin, TX 78703
How Much: Free admission
Bluebonnet Austin – Best bluebonnets locations in South Austin
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Image Credit: wildflower.org
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is the perfect starting point for your wildflower adventure, offering labeled displays of wildflowers and plenty of photo opportunities. The Center is conveniently located roughly 12 miles southwest of downtown Austin.
When: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Where: 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
How Much: Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $6 for children aged 5-17, and free for children under 5
Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park
A park with trails, sports facilities, fishing, and a disc golf course.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 907 West Slaughter Lane, Austin, TX 78748
How Much: Free admission
St. Edward’s University
A university campus with walking trails and scenic views.
When: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Where: 3001 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: Free admission
James A. Garrison District Park
A park with a pool, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 6001 Menchaca Rd., Austin, Texas 78745
How Much: Free admission
McKinney Falls State Park
Listen to Onion Creek flowing over limestone ledges and splashing into pools. Follow trails winding through the Hill Country woods. Explore the remains of an early Texas homestead and a very old rock shelter. All of this lies within Austin’s city limits at McKinney Falls State Park. A state park with camping areas, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
When: Open daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744
How Much: Admission is $6 for adults and free for children under 12
Zilker Botanical Garden
Image Credit: Zilker Botanical Garden FB Page
Zilker Botanical Garden is nestled within Zilker Metropolitan Park in the heart of downtown Austin. Their themed gardens including the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, Hartman Prehistoric Garden, and Rose Garden, are all interconnected with pathways for all ages and abilities. With heritage live oaks, streams, and Koi-filled ponds, the Garden offers a peaceful respite in the middle of our busy city.
When: Open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Where: 2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
How Much: Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and children aged 3-12
South Congress Avenue
This vibrant neighborhood south of Lady Bird Lake is a must-stroll for visitors and a popular hangout for locals. South Congress oozes homespun character and boasts the story of Austin’s yesteryear in its boutiques, eateries, galleries, and music venues.
When: Open daily, hours vary depending on the business
Where: South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: Free admission
South Austin Neighborhood Park
A park with a pool, basketball court, and picnic areas.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 1100 Cumberland Rd, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: Free admission
Bluebonnet Austin – East Austin areas for bluebonnets
Govalle Park
A park with a pool, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 5200 Bolm Rd, Austin, TX 78721
How Much: Free admission
Edward Rendon Sr. Metro Park at Festival Beach
This area has been renamed Edward Rendon, Sr. Park at Festival Beach. It is on the Town Lake hike and bike trail, close to where I35 crosses the lake. It has some of the largest and prettiest shade trees on the trail and is a favorite picnic site.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 2101 Jesse E. Segovia St, Austin, TX 78702
How Much: Free admission
Mueller Lake Park
Mueller Lake Park weaves through the community, establishing a native, local ecosystem and bringing outdoor recreation and education options to Mueller residents, employees, and visitors. With 20 percent of the neighborhood dedicated to parkland and open space, every resident lives within 600 feet of community greenspace. It is open to the public and is host to several community events annually.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 4550 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723
How Much: Free admission
Festival Beach Community Garden
The Festival Beach Community Garden is 2 acres of property at the corner of Waller and Clermont Streets in East Austin, divided into affordable garden plots and community spaces. Since opening in April 2010, the garden has grown to include more than 80 gardeners growing a variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and plants. The site provides communal tools, irrigation, and a space for educational and community events.
When: Open daily from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
Where: 35 Waller St, Austin, TX 78702
How Much: Free admission
The Austin Community College Riverside Campus
A college campus with a pond and walking trails.
When: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Where: 1020 Grove Boulevard, Austin, Texas 78741
How Much: Free admission
Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park
A park with trails, picnic areas, and river access.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 400 Grove Boulevard, Austin, TX 78741
How Much: Free admission
Rosewood Neighborhood Park
A park with a pool, basketball court, and picnic areas.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 2300 Rosewood Ave, Austin, TX 78702
How Much: Free admission
Boggy Creek Greenbelt
A park with hiking trails and a creek.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 1114 Nile St, Austin, TX 78702
How Much: Free admission
Morris Williams Golf Course
A golf course with views of downtown Austin.
When: Open daily, hours vary depending on the season
Where: 3851 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78723
How Much: Greens fees start at $16 for Austin residents and $24 for non-residents
Bluebonnet Austin – Bluebonnets in West Austin
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
Image Credit: sites.stedwards.edu
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve is managed as part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve and consists of 227 acres of beautiful Hill Country woodlands owned jointly by Travis County (164.4 acres) and St. Edwards University (62.6 acres). Wild Basin is open to visitors who can hike the 2.5 miles of trails and can visit the Wild Basin Creative Research Center.
When: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Where: 805 North Capital of Texas Highway, Austin, TX 78746
How Much: Free admission
Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park
Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park is a 215-acre park located in Austin, Texas. Hiking trails can be found in the park’s three major regions: the prairie, the canyon, and the chaparral.
When: Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 614 N Commons Ford Rd, Austin, TX 78733
How Much: Free admission
Emma Long Metropolitan Park
The park features open space, campsites, boat ramps, reservation-based large picnic table sites, and a designated beach entry swimming area.
When: Open daily from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm
Where: 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730
How Much: Admission is $5 per vehicle for residents, $10 per vehicle for non-residents
Texas Hill Country Olive Company
A farm with olive groves and a tasting room.
When: Open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
Where: 2530 W Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
How Much: Free admission
Note: While bluebonnets can typically be found at these locations during the springtime, the exact timing and amount of bloom may vary from year to year depending on weather and environmental conditions.
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