Whether you’re a lifelong local or are just visiting this special city for the first time, we feel confident in saying Austin has one of the most iconic (and ever-changing) skylines we can think of. From the Capitol building to the Frost Bank tower to Lady Bird Lake, and more – no city does it quite like ATX. Here are a few of our favorite spots for breathtaking views of downtown Austin.
CONTRIBUTED BY SADIE JANE, updated by Do512 Family
Auditorium Shores, Photo via Yelp
— Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park
900 W Riverside Dr
Known for hosting eclectic festivals, concerts, and other local events, Auditorium Shores is also a great place to spend an easy afternoon. This urban park is nestled right in the heart of Austin, offering stunning views of Lady Bird Lake and the city skyline.
Butler Metro Park, Photo Credit: Roger Ho
Butler Metro Park
1000 Barton Springs Rd
Butler Metro Park, formerly known as Town Lake Metro Park, is located near Austin’s well-known Auditorium Shores and offers a variety of unique features. Park-goers can experience an observation hill overlooking Lady Bird Lake, a children’s garden, and a beautiful meadow. It’s a great place to hike or ride a bike or even have a picnic set to the backdrop of the breathtaking Austin skyline.
Doug Sahm Hill Summit, Photo Credit: T. Kahler Photography
— Doug Sahm Hill Summit
Doug Sahm Hill Path
Built-in honor of Texas music legend Douglas Wayne Sahm, Doug Sahm Hill Summit is a popular spot for Austin visitors and locals alike. You can find this special destination nestled between Riverside and Barton Springs Road in Butler Park with a spectacular view of the Austin skyline. It’s the perfect place to stop and take in Austin’s scenery while you catch your breath from Town Lake Park’s many hiking and biking trails.
Photo Credit: Heidi Okla
— From Lady Bird Lake via Capital Cruises
208 Barton Springs Rd
Rent Canoes, Kayaks, Swan Pedal Boats, SUPs, and Electric and Donut boats to cruise around Lady Bird Lake in style and take in the Austin skyline from an entirely different perspective! They are open daily Monday-Friday from 10 am till Dusk and Saturday-Sunday from 9 am till dusk.
Photo credit: Austin-American Statesman
— Long Center Lawn
701 W Riverside Dr
Located along Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin, the Long Center is home to many local events both inside its doors and on its vast rolling lawn. Pro tip: grab a picnic basket and head over around dusk for the perfect sunset view.
Lou Neff Point, Photo via Waymarking
— Lou Neff Point
Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
This little scenic overlook is located just off Austin’s downtown Butler Hike & Bike Trail (aka Town Lake Trail) and just northeast of Zilker Park on the south side of the river where Barton Creek meets Lady Bird Lake. The Lou Neff Point Gazebo offers a perfect photo op of the downtown city skyline over the Colorado River with the Lamar Bridge in the background. There are also a few benches and seating areas to relax while taking in the views.
Mount Bonnell, Photo Credit: Heidi Okla
— Mount Bonnell
3800 Mount Bonnell Rd
Also known as Covert Park, Mount Bonnell is located alongside the Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River. This popular scenic spot has been frequented by tourists since the 1850s and offers an unforgettable view of Austin’s rolling hill country, cityscape, and iconic Lake Austin. Take a short hike to the top of this “mountain” for the perfect backdrop to your next Instagram photo.
Pennybacker Bridge, Photo Credit: Roger Ho
— Pennybacker Bridge Overlook Trail
Loop 360 And Lake Austin
The Pennybacker Bridge, also known as the 360 Bridge, straddles beautiful Lake Austin and is the perfect place to go if you’re in the mood for some light hiking and great views. Though it’s located further from the city skyline, this natural area offers a removed perspective of downtown Austin. Follow along the trail for a scenic overlook that is sure to take your breath away.
Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk, Photo Credit: Roger Ho
— The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake
1820 S Lakeshore Blvd
Lady Bird Lake is one of Austin’s most popular biking and running destinations. Located near the Long Center, the boardwalk trail offers a different but equally beautiful view of the city skyline at any time of day or night. Those who decide to visit the trail in the evening during the summer months can catch a glimpse of the bats flying under the iconic Congress Bridge around 7:45 pm.
Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, Photo via The Trail Foundation
— Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge
Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
The James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge spans Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin. Since 2001, the bridge has connected the north and south sides of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail offering riders and hikers beautiful views of the city. Many have described the bridge as more of a linear park that allows you to stop and enjoy Austin’s scenery all along the way.
Zilker Park, Photo Credit: Roger Ho
— Zilker Park
2207 Lou Neff Rd
Anyone who has ever been to Austin will tell you that Zilker Park is a must-see. This popular spot offers a stunning view of Austin’s iconic skyline and acres of lush green space for park-goers (and their four-legged friends) to enjoy. Zilker also plays host to annual local events like the Austin City Limits Music Festival and Trail of Lights.
