Austin, Texas is known for it’s vibrant cityscape, culture, and live music. What many people don’t know is that the city also offers some of the most incredible views in the country. From rooftop bars to natural parks, here are the best places to take in the sights of Austin.
- Mount Bonnell
- Umlauf Sculpture Garden
- 360 Overlook
- Barton Creek Greenbelt
- The Long Center for the Performing Arts
- The Blanton Museum of Art
- The Oasis on Lake Travis
- The State Capitol
1. Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell is one of the most iconic views of Austin. Located in the city’s west side, the limestone outcropping rises 785 feet above sea level and overlooks Lake Austin and the surrounding hill country.
The summit can only be reached by climbing a steep staircase, but the picturesque landscape is worth the effort. From the top of the peak, visitors can spot the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country, the downtown Austin skyline, and the shimmering waters of Lake Austin.
On a clear day, you can even get a glimpse of the city’s famous bat bridge and other attractions. For those looking to avoid the crowds, morning and early evening are the best times to visit.
The surrounding areas also offer plenty of activities and attractions. Visitors can go for a swim in Lake Austin, take a boat tour, or go for a hike on the Enchanted Rock Trail.
Mount Bonnell is a great spot for photographers and sightseers alike. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date spot or a stunning view of the city, Mount Bonnell is a must-visit destination when exploring the best views of Austin, Texas.
2. Umlauf Sculpture Garden
The Umlauf Sculpture Garden is a must-see if you’re looking to get a unique view of the city of Austin. Located just south of downtown, the garden is home to an array of sculptures and plants, created by renowned sculptor Charles Umlauf. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking for a creative and peaceful way to take in the beauty of the city.
When visiting the garden, you’ll be able to take in the stunning landscape of the garden itself, with its towering trees and wildflowers. There are plenty of places to sit and take in the views of the city skyline, and you can also wander around the various sculptures and admire the work of Charles Umlauf. The garden also has an on-site café, offering drinks and snacks if you’re looking for a refreshment while exploring.
On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the stunning views of downtown Austin, the Texas State Capitol, and the lush hills of West Austin. This is an incredible experience that can’t be found anywhere else. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden is a great way to take in the unique beauty of the city.
The Umlauf Sculpture Garden is a great spot to explore the city of Austin and take in the wonderful views it has to offer. With its stunning landscape and creative sculptures, it’s a unique and peaceful way to take in the beauty of the city.
3. 360 Overlook
The 360 Overlook is one of the best places to take in the views of Austin, Texas. Located on the west side of the city, the spot can be accessed from the Loop 360 pedestrian bridge and is popular among locals and tourists alike. From here, you can see the city skyline, the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country, and, on a clear day, dozens of colorful hot air balloons floating above the landscape.
The 360 Overlook is best enjoyed at sunrise when the morning light reflects off the buildings in the city and the sky is painted in beautiful oranges, pinks, and blues. This spectacle is especially breathtaking on a summer morning when the air is still and the city is quiet. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a few deer grazing in the fields of the Hill Country.
The 360 Overlook is also a great spot for photography. Whether you’re a professional or an amateur, you’ll be able to capture some amazing shots here. The sunsets are particularly stunning and make for a great backdrop for any photo.
The 360 Overlook is the perfect place for visitors to take in the beauty of Austin, Texas. From here, you can marvel at the city’s vibrant culture, impressive skyline, and rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country. Make sure to stop by the 360 Overlook the next time you’re in Austin!
4. Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a must-see for any Austin visitor. This 7.9-mile stretch of nature is home to lush vegetation, wildlife, and stunning views of the city and its surrounding hill country. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is sure to provide a peaceful respite.
The trails offer several overlooks that provide stunning views of the creeks, hills, and limestone bluffs. If you’re looking to take a break during the hike, there are plenty of spots to relax and take in the scenery. You can also go fishing in the creek, or even take a dip if the water is deep enough.
If you’re looking to take a more leisurely experience, you can rent a canoe or kayak and paddle down the creek. This is a great way to take in the beauty of the Barton Creek Greenbelt, especially during the summer months when the creek is especially refreshing.
For an even more unique experience, you can take a guided tour to learn about the many species of native plants and animals that inhabit the area. Led by knowledgeable local experts, these tours are the perfect way to explore the beauty of the Barton Creek Greenbelt.
No matter how you choose to take in the sights of the Barton Creek Greenbelt, it’s sure to be an experience you won’t soon forget. From the lush vegetation to the incredible views, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is sure to provide a unique and breathtaking perspective of Austin.
5. The Long Center for the Performing Arts
The Long Center for the Performing Arts is a unique and vibrant venue in the heart of Austin, Texas. What makes it stand out is its stunning views of the city skyline. From the terrace, you can take in the beauty of the sprawling cityscape, with its high-rise buildings and lush greenery. The center is a great spot to enjoy a show or a concert, as you can make your way up to the terrace during intermission and take in the incredible views.
The Long Center is one of the most popular venues in the city, hosting a variety of performers throughout the year. It’s also a great place to just enjoy the view and take some pictures. The center has an outdoor amphitheater, so you can take in the beautiful scenery while listening to some of Austin’s best artists. You can even take a seat in the luxury box seats and enjoy a drink and a snack while admiring the views of the city.
No matter what show you attend at the Long Center, you’re sure to be mesmerized by the stunning views of the Austin skyline. From rooftop bars to natural parks, the Long Center for the Performing Arts is one of the best places to take in the sights of Austin. So, the next time you’re in town, make sure to check out the Long Center and take in the beautiful views of the city.
6. The Blanton Museum of Art
The Blanton Museum of Art is one of the best places to take in the views of Austin. This museum is home to a vast collection of art ranging from Renaissance to contemporary, and it’s located on the University of Texas campus.
The terrace of the Blanton Museum offers an incredible view of the skyline of Austin, making it a great spot for a romantic evening or a panoramic photo shoot. The terrace overlooks the campus and surrounding city, so you can see the hustle and bustle of the city from a bird’s eye view. The terrace also offers a unique perspective of the architecture, as you can see the different styles of buildings from the terrace.
In addition to the great view, the Blanton Museum is a great place to take in some culture. You can explore the different exhibits, including the permanent collection and special exhibitions, and learn about the history of art. There are also many interactive exhibits that are great for children.
The Blanton Museum is a great place to take in views of the city, but also to learn about the culture of Austin. The terrace offers a magnificent view of the city, and you can take in some culture while you’re there. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening spot or a great place to take some photos, the Blanton Museum of Art is a great option.
7. The Oasis on Lake Travis
The Oasis on Lake Travis is a well-known Austin spot for its stunning views of the lake and the city. Located on the southern shores of the lake, the restaurant and bar provide a great spot to grab a bite to eat and take in breathtaking views of Lake Travis and the Austin skyline in the distance.
At the Oasis, guests can enjoy a meal or a drink on the outdoor patio as the sun sets over the lake. The vibrant colors of the sky as the sun goes down are almost as beautiful as the views of the rolling hills and lake that surround the restaurant. For those who prefer to stay indoors, the indoor bar offers a great view of the lake and city as well.
The Oasis also offers live music on the weekends, making it a great spot to take in some of the sounds of Austin while enjoying the views. Whether you’re looking to get out of the city and take in the views of the lake and hills or take in the sights of the city skyline, the Oasis is the perfect spot to do both.
No visit to Austin is complete without stopping by the Oasis on Lake Travis. From the outdoor patio to the indoor bar, the views of the lake and the city skyline will leave you in awe. Whether you’re looking for a spot to grab a bite to eat or just take in the views, the Oasis on Lake Travis is a great spot to experience the best of Austin.
8. The State Capitol
- View the city skyline from the State Capitol The State Capitol is the best spot for a view of the Austin skyline. The capitol grounds offer amazing views of the city and the surrounding hill country, and it’s a great spot to take in the sights of the city. The grounds feature a grand lawn and many monuments and sculptures, making it an ideal spot for photography and an enjoyable experience. The capitol building itself also provides a stunning view of the skyline, and the entrance to the building is an impressive sight during the day and night.
- Sunset view of the city Climb to the top of the State Capitol for an incredible view of the sunset over the city. The vantage point from the top of the building offers an amazing view of the cityscape and the surrounding hills. Take in the vibrant colors of the sky as the sun sets, and the city lights start to twinkle. The view from the Capitol is a unique experience that you won’t soon forget.
- Experience the city from the top The State Capitol offers a unique view of the city from the top. The building stands tall in the downtown landscape, giving visitors a captivating view of the city. The top of the building is a perfect spot to take in the sights of downtown, and the sprawling hill country beyond. The sight of the city from the top of the Capitol is an experience that you won’t soon forget.
