Barton Springs swimming pool is a back-to-nature paradise for those seeking to escape the city, and especially the heat. This three acre pool is replenished continuously by cool water from the largest of four natural springs flowing into Zilker Park, and is a magnet promising reinvigoration for everyone in Austin, welcoming families, school children, tourists and locals of all persuasions. It is also the place to be seen for the super trendy musicians and creative technology workers who lounge amongst the grassy banks and shady Pecan trees surrounding the pool, topping up their tans, networking for gigs, and nonchalantly designing the latest smart phone apps. A diving board is conveniently located for those wishing to dive to the bottom of the pool and experience the sensation of water pumping at 31 million US gallons per day, which is like hearing and feeling a heart-beat at the same time. Located in Zilker Park, home to the Austin City Limits festival and an attraction in itself, Barton Springs Pool is easily accessible by car and there are some of the best outdoor restaurants nearby (such as Shady Grove) – there is also a café and bar just outside the pool. At only $3 to get in, the pool does get busy at the weekend, so it is best to visit during the week in the day. I recommend going for an early morning swim, the pool opens at 5am, or going late at night (between 8pm and 10pm there is no entry fee).
austintexas.gov/department/barton-springs-pool
2201 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78746
+1 512 994 9952
Google map: bit.ly/V1nAHe
* Mark Sheaves is our Been there local for Austin. You can read his profile and about Austin here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/articles/austin-local-mark-sheaves.jsp and you can follow his tips here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/travellers/MarkSheaves. Check out other locals here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/trails/been-there-locals.jsp
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