Top 18 photo spots in Austin
Discover our curated list of top-ranked photo spots in Austin, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Barton Creek Greenbelt, Zilker Botanical Garden, Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park, Covert Park at Mount Bonnell, Mueller Lake Park. Let's explore together!
- 1. Barton Creek Greenbelt
- 2. Zilker Botanical Garden
- 3. Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park
- 4. Covert Park at Mount Bonnell
- 5. Mueller Lake Park
- 6. Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
- 7. Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
- 8. Mills Pond Recreation Area
- 9. Pennybacker Bridge Overlook
- 10. Red Bud Isle
- 11. The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake
- 12. Mount Bonnell
- 13. Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge
- 14. Lou Neff Point
- 15. Saturn Photography - Austin Photographers
- 16. Tau Ceti
- 17. You're My Butter Half Mural
- 18. Southern Love Photography Studio
1. Barton Creek Greenbelt
Scenic beauty, popular outdoor destination

But remember, with great adventure comes great responsibility. Be sure to do your part in preserving this natural treasure by cleaning up after yourself. And keep an eye out for BMX bikers zipping by, adding an extra element of excitement to your adventure. Don't miss out on this unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and create memories that will last a lifetime. Experience the beauty and excitement of the Barton Creek Greenbelt and Violet Crown Trail today!
2. Zilker Botanical Garden
Tranquil oasis in the heart of Austin
Don't miss out on the opportunity to discover this urban paradise! While the entrance may be bustling, the pay-to-park lot offers convenient access to this must-see attraction. Once inside, you'll be transported to a world of beauty and tranquility. With so much to see and explore, Zilker Botanical Garden is a destination that you'll want to return to again and again.
3. Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park
Popular wedding location
But Auditorium Shores is more than just a premier event space – it's a haven for solo female travelers and nature lovers looking for a serene escape. With its easy, non-slip trails and stunning sunset views, it's no wonder why visitors rave about this park. Whether you're looking for a romantic stroll, a solo adventure, or a family-friendly outing, Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park offers an unforgettable experience for all. So why wait? Come discover this hidden gem for yourself and see why it's quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations for travel and food in the country. Trust us – you won't be disappointed!
4. Covert Park at Mount Bonnell
Natural landmark, free admission
The panoramic views from Mount Bonnell's summit are truly awe-inspiring. While the hike may seem intimidating to some, it's easily manageable with a group. Don't miss out on this must-visit destination for travelers looking to soak in the natural beauty of Austin's great outdoors.
5. Mueller Lake Park
Scenic views, eco-friendly design
Discover Mueller: A Shopper's and Foodie's Paradise Mueller is more than just a community; it's a destination for food, shopping, and breathtaking sights. Spend your day running, walking, or simply window shopping its charming neighborhoods. With waterfalls and picturesque views, Mueller promises an unforgettable adventure.
6. Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
Free admission, dog-friendly, donations appreciated
Parking is plentiful and free, with a small lot and additional street parking available. Stroll the grounds and trails at no cost, and be sure to visit the captivating peacocks near the house. Ideal for beginners, the trails are neither long nor daunting, making this a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
7. Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
Historic home of American sculptor Charles Umlauf

Although some of the proportions and eye treatments may seem unusual, the overall impact of the exhibit is powerful. It's clear that Umlauf found inspiration in the natural beauty of the garden, and his works are a testament to his talent and vision. A visit to the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum is a must for any art lover or nature enthusiast.
8. Mills Pond Recreation Area
Natural beauty, family-friendly atmosphere
️ 15108 Wells Port Dr, Austin, TX 78728 ️ 512-251-9814 Website Hours of operation Sunday: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday: 5 a.m. m. to 10 p.m. m. Friday: 5 a.m. m. to 10 p.m. m. Saturday: 5 a.m. m. to 10 p.m. m. Highlights Favorite Park Beautiful Pond Well Maintained Dog Friendly Family Friendly First of all, let me start by saying that Mills Pond Recreation Area has quickly become My Favorite Park in Pflugerville. This hidden gem is home to a beautiful pond that will take your breath away. Seriously, the serene beauty of the water is something to behold. What impressed me most about Mills Pond was how well maintained the entire area is. The park is meticulously maintained, with clean trails and well-tended green spaces. It is a true testament to the dedication of the staff in creating a picturesque atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. One of the key reasons I loved Mills Pond Recreation Area is their dog-friendly policy. As a dog lover, it was comforting to see so many four-legged friends happily exploring the trails and splashing in the pond. My dog didn't want to leave! The family atmosphere at Mills Pond also caught my attention. There were multiple picnic areas with shaded tables and grills, making it the perfect spot for a family outing or a relaxing afternoon with friends. I couldn't help but envy the laughter and joy I witnessed. All in all, Mills Pond Recreation Area is a true gem in Pflugerville. Its beauty, cleanliness and pleasant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. So, pack your picnic basket and head to Mills Pond for a day of tranquility and outdoor fun! You may also want to visit the best shops in Austin.
9. Pennybacker Bridge Overlook
Natural beauty, free admission
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10. Red Bud Isle
Off-leash dog park and bird-watching spot
11. The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake
Free admission, dog-friendly, accessible
️ 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd, Austin, TX 78741 ️ 512-974-6700 Website Hours Sunday: 5 a.m. - 5 p.m. m. to 12 a.m. m. Monday: 5 a.m. m. to 12 a.m. m. Tuesday: 5 a.m. m. to 12 a.m. m. Wednesday: 5 a.m. m. to 12 a.m. m. Thursday: 5 a.m. m. to 12 a.m. m. Friday: 5 a.m. m. to 12 a.m. m. Saturday: 5 a.m. m. to 12 a.m. m. Highlights Beautiful trail Family-friendly bike rides Free, no-fee parking The Lady Bird Lake boardwalk is a hidden gem among Austin's best views. As I walked along the beautiful path, I couldn't help but feel a sense of calm wash over me. The boardwalk extends towards the lake and offers stunning panoramic views of the water and surrounding nature. What sets The Boardwalk apart from other outlets is its focus on being family-friendly. It is not only a place for avid cyclists or nature enthusiasts, but also a perfect place to take a peaceful bike ride with your loved ones. I saw families laughing and enjoying the fresh air, making it clear that this is a place for everyone. Another highlight that caught my attention was the fact that there is free parking available, with no additional charges to access the boardwalk. This accessibility makes it an ideal place to enjoy a quiet day without worrying about spending a lot of money. Whether you're a local Austin resident or a visitor, The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake should definitely be on your must-see list. The incredible views, family-friendly atmosphere, and the added benefit of free admission make it a top contender for the best view in Austin. So next time you're in town, grab your bike, put on your sneakers, and take a ride along The Boardwalk. You will not be disappointed with the views that await you. You may also want to visit Austin's best vintage shops.
12. Mount Bonnell
Austin's highest point, free admission

13. Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge
Accessible, popular for walkers, runners, cyclists
Lamar Boulevard crosses Lady Bird Lake between Loop 1 and Interstate 35, making it a great way to cross into downtown without having to deal with major highways. Those who cross the bridge will be able to see another, more unusual pedestrian bridge that runs parallel: the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge. This bridge is open to both walkers and cyclists and features a double-curved design, allowing photographers to get great angles of many different parts of the city. The bridge overlooks parks along the waterfront and downtown. Couples looking for unique shots here have several options. The bridge looks over the Colorado River from several vantage points and faces the downtown skyline. The best times to take photos on the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge are during the spring and summer seasons. During this time, couples can take advantage of the natural beauty of the parks that line the shores along the bridge, providing countless engagement photo opportunities.
14. Lou Neff Point
Popular spot for watching Austin's famous Congress Avenue bats
01:06 5.93 mi 5.4 mph 100 feet 100 feet Intermediate 4.0 (10) 714 Intermediate run. Good physical fitness is required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all levels. Navigate with device Send to phone Save View map data © OpenStreetMap contributors 5 5
15. Saturn Photography - Austin Photographers
Personalized photography experiences
16. Tau Ceti
Copy Link Austin's tallest public artwork, Tau Ceti by Josef Kristofoletti, was inspired by a star in the Cetus constellation that is spectrally similar to Earth's sun. It was completed in November, but the highly Instagrammable city street corner has already become a star in its own right. It rises 103 feet, or 10 stories, above the street at the corner of Brazos and East Second streets, bringing radiant color to a previously drab parking corner. Open in Google Maps 100 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
17. You're My Butter Half Mural
10+ Images Well-maintained and beautifully executed mural: clean and spacious. ️ It faces a busy street, but they are probably used to people coming up to take photos or selfies. It has a phone holder for taking timed photos and two large benches on either side of the wall for sitting. It's a bit of a climb to get to the mural, but there are some side stairs you can take. Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (306 reviews)Address: 2000 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd More information 20 votes up or down