Austin, Texas is known for its outdoor-friendly lifestyle, and this is especially true when it comes to dining. Whether you’re looking for a spot to picnic with the family or an outdoor dining experience, Austin has plenty of options. Keep reading to explore some of the best picnic spots and outdoor dining in Austin, Texas.
- Outdoor Dining at La Barbecue
- Picnic Spots in Zilker Park
- Outdoor Dining at The Highball
- Picnicking at the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
- Picnicking at Mayfield Park
- Picnicking at Bull Creek District Park
- Outdoor Dining at Emmer & Rye
- Outdoor Dining at Contigo
1. Outdoor Dining at La Barbecue
La Barbecue is a must-try when it comes to outdoor dining in Austin, Texas. Located in South Austin, this popular restaurant offers a unique outdoor dining experience with city views and delicious barbecue. This Texas-style barbecue joint is famous for its live music, flavorful sauces, and all-wood pit smoked meats.
The restaurant’s outdoor dining area is perfect for a family picnic or gathering with friends. There’s plenty of seating and plenty of shade to keep you comfortable during your meal. The menu offers a variety of classic Texas barbecue, including brisket, ribs, sausage, and pulled pork. There are also plenty of side dishes to choose from.
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor dining experience in Austin, La Barbecue is a great option. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Plus, you can’t beat the city views while you enjoy your meal.
So if you’re looking for a great picnic spot or outdoor dining experience in Austin, Texas, La Barbecue is definitely worth checking out. With its delicious food and city views, it’s sure to be a great experience for the whole family.
2. Picnic Spots in Zilker Park
Zilker Park is the ultimate outdoor picnic spot in Austin, Texas. Located in the heart of the city, Zilker Park offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a romantic spot or a family outing. Stroll through the lush Zilker Botanical Garden and take in the beauty of the diverse plants and flowers that fill the park. Kids will love to explore the trails and fields that offer plenty of adventure. For a more refined experience, there are several small pavilions that can be reserved in advance and provide a great backdrop for your picnic.
If you’re looking for more of an outdoor dining experience, Zilker Park offers a variety of options. Choose from a variety of local Austin food trucks that serve up delicious meals, or bring your own picnic and enjoy the park’s tranquil atmosphere. There are also several restaurants located nearby that offer outdoor seating with amazing views of the park.
No matter what you’re looking for, Zilker Park is the perfect place for an outdoor picnic or dining experience in Austin. With its beautiful botanical gardens, trails and fields, and the variety of local restaurants and food trucks, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your picnic.
3. Outdoor Dining at The Highball
The Highball is a popular bar and restaurant in Austin, Texas, and it’s the perfect spot to enjoy outdoor dining in the sun. With live music, delicious food, and a large outdoor seating space, The Highball has something for everyone.
The outdoor dining area at The Highball is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy a variety of outdoor seating options, including high-top tables and chairs, sofas, and swings. You can also take advantage of the large outdoor stage, which regularly hosts live music events.
The Highball has an extensive menu of classic American dishes, as well as a variety of signature cocktails and craft beers. Enjoy favorites like burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and salads, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. For a unique twist on traditional bar food, try the Texas BBQ Nachos, which are made with house-smoked brisket and jalapeno queso.
The Highball is the ideal spot for outdoor dining in Austin. With its outdoor seating, live music, and delicious food, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon with family and friends. So head to The Highball and start exploring the best picnic spots and outdoor dining in Austin, Texas.
4. Picnicking at the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
The Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail is a must-see for Austin visitors and residents alike. This 10-mile loop offers breathtaking views of the lake, the downtown skyline, and the surrounding hills. If you’re looking for a picnic spot, the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail is the perfect place. Pack a lunch, grab a blanket, and settle in for a leisurely lunch surrounded by some of the best scenery in the city.
The trail connects many other outdoor activities, so you can incorporate some fun into your picnic. Stop by Zilker Park to play disc golf or take a dip in the Barton Creek Greenbelt. There’s also kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals available at the trail, or you can take a tour of the lake with one of the local boat companies.
The trail is also home to several restaurants that offer outdoor dining. Stop by the Hula Hut for Tex-Mex fare and unbeatable views of the lake. Or check out the Picnic Food Truck Park for a variety of food trucks and beer gardens. For a romantic night out, make reservations at the Oasis on Lake Travis, an iconic Austin restaurant with waterfront dining and outdoor seating.
Pack a lunch and head to the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail for a picnic with a view. With its stunning scenery, outdoor dining options, and plenty of recreational activities, the trail is the perfect spot for a day out.
5. Picnicking at Mayfield Park
Mayfield Park is a hidden gem for picnicking in Austin, Texas. Located just west of downtown, this lush park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s no wonder that the park is home to a flock of free-roaming peacocks, set against a picturesque backdrop of creeks, ponds, and gardens.
When it comes to picnicking, there is no shortage of options at Mayfield Park. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to spread your blanket and relax or a place to explore with the kids, the park has plenty of open space for everyone. For a romantic picnic, head to the Butterfly Garden or the romantic Lily Pond. For a more active picnic, take a stroll to the Peacock Viewing Platform or the Mayfield Nature Preserve.
Besides its beautiful scenery, Mayfield Park also offers plenty of amenities for picnickers. There are grills and picnic tables scattered throughout the park, and there are even a few spots with electricity and outlets. If you get a little too hungry, you can always grab some lunch at the Mayfield Café, located just outside the park.
Picnicking at Mayfield Park is a great way to spend a day in Austin. With its lush gardens, peacocks, and plenty of scenic spots to choose from, it’s no wonder that this park is one of the best picnic spots in Austin.
6. Picnicking at Bull Creek District Park
If you’re looking for a serene spot to enjoy a picnic, Bull Creek District Park is a great choice. Located just west of Austin, this park is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a while. Here, you’ll find plenty of tables and benches to enjoy lunch or dinner in the great outdoors, as well as plenty of open green space to spread out a blanket and have a picnic.
The park is home to a variety of activities, from fishing and swimming to hiking and biking. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or an all-day adventure, Bull Creek District Park has something for everyone. Plus, with its convenient location, you can easily combine your picnic with a visit to some of Austin’s other attractions.
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor dining experience, Bull Creek District Park is the perfect spot. Here, you can enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by nature, with plenty of wildlife for entertainment. Enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch under the shade of a tree or take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the creek. Whatever you decide to do, you’re sure to have a memorable experience at Bull Creek District Park.
7. Outdoor Dining at Emmer & Rye
Located in downtown Austin, Emmer & Rye is a popular restaurant with a unique outdoor dining area. As you dine on seasonal dishes and craft cocktails, you can enjoy the warm Texas sunshine in the outdoor seating area.
The restaurant is committed to using only the freshest ingredients, including locally sourced produce, meats, and dairy products. With an ever-changing menu that focuses on seasonal products, you can enjoy a different experience each time you visit.
The restaurant also serves craft cocktails and local beer to complement your meal. The drinks menu is constantly updated with new offerings, giving you the opportunity to try something new each visit.
The outdoor dining area at Emmer & Rye is a perfect spot for a sunny day lunch or an evening dinner. With a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of seating, you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and the delicious food and drinks.
Emmer & Rye is an excellent choice for outdoor dining in Austin. With its commitment to using fresh ingredients and an ever-changing menu, you can expect to have a unique and enjoyable experience each time you visit. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor dining experience, this restaurant is the perfect spot to check out.
8. Outdoor Dining at Contigo
- Contigo offers outdoor dining and drinks. Contigo is a popular restaurant in Austin, TX that offers an outdoor dining area. Come enjoy a craft cocktail and a delicious meal while you soak up the sun. This is the perfect spot for a date night or a family outing. Contigo emphasizes local ingredients, so you’re sure to find something unique and tasty. The outdoor area is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room to spread out. Plus, with the view of the downtown skyline, you won’t soon forget your special evening at Contigo.
- Enjoy craft cocktails in the sun. Craft cocktails are a favorite at Contigo. The bartenders take pride in creating unique drinks, many of which are inspired by Austin’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing gin and tonic or something more adventurous, you’re sure to find a craft cocktail that you’ll love. Plus, it’s even better when you can enjoy your drink in the outdoors. Contigo also offers an extensive beer and wine list, so you’ll definitely find something to quench your thirst.
- Dine on local ingredients outdoors. The food menu at Contigo emphasizes local ingredients, so you’re sure to find something unique and tasty. From wood-fired pizzas to hearty sandwiches, there’s something for everyone. The outdoor dining area is spacious and comfortable, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Plus, with the view of the downtown skyline, you won’t soon forget your special evening at Contigo.
