Zilker ParkThe 140-hectare (347-acre) Zilker Park, donated to the city by
the German immigrant who gave it its name, is Austin's most popular
public recreational area, dominated by its ancient spring-fed
natural swimming pool, known as Barton Springs, which Native
Americans believed to have healing properties. The pool is about
the size of a football field with water at a constant warm
temperature all year round. Zilker Park has other attractions, too,
including a botanical garden which features dinosaur tracks, a
nature preserve, the Umlauf Sculpture garden and museum, canoes for
rent and eight miles (13km) of biking and walking trails. There are
sports facilities aplenty and amusements for children like the
Zilker Zephyr miniature train and paddleboat rides. The Zilker
Hillside Theatre hosts musical concerts throughout the year, and
the park also plays host to the Austin Nature and Science Center
where exhibits and workshops run throughout the year. The Zilker
Park's annual Christmas tree-l
Address: 2100 Barton Springs Road
Website:
www.austintexas.gov/department/zilker-metropolitan-park |
