Lakeway City Park
Lakeway City Park was the kind of place that offers a little bit of everything: water, trails, picnic tables, and space to simply be.
Lakeway City Park is one of the most unique and relaxing parks near Austin, Texas, and it’s easily one of my favorite spots for a lakeside escape.
Set along the shores of Lake Travis, this 64-acre park stands out as a place where nature, recreation, and community all come together in a beautiful Hill Country setting.
The park features scenic lake views, wooded trails, and plenty of open space, making it perfect for picnics, swimming, hiking, or simply enjoying the outdoors. With designated swim areas, boat access, and shaded spots to relax, it’s a local favorite for both adventure and downtime.
Located about 25 miles from downtown Austin, Lakeway City Park delivers one of the best and most unique opportunities to enjoy Lake Travis. It's absolutely one of my favorite nearby escapes when I want fresh air and waterfront views.
What I love most is the variety of activities. I enjoy walking on the nature trails (be on a lookout for the hummingbirds garden, a real local gem!). You can play a game of basketball or volleyball, and then cool off in the lake all in one visit.
The sunsets over Lake Travis are especially unique and unforgettable, making this park one of the best and truly my favorite Hill Country hideaways.
In the summer, there are special events to look forward to like movie nights and more.
For me, Lakeway City Park is a place where every visit feels refreshing, family-friendly, and my favorite way to experience Lake Travis.
Strolling along the Paved Path in Lakeway City Park
I started with a stroll on the paved path that loops gently through the park, hugging the lake and winding past trees heavy with shade. The breeze moved softly, carrying the smell of grass and charcoal smoke from a distant barbecue pit. Families passed with strollers and wagging tails, nodding as they went. "This feels like a neighborhood’s backyard," I thought, as butterflies flitted between flower beds near a shaded bench.
Outdoor Exercise and Bird Watching
Along the trail, I spotted the park’s outdoor fitness equipment, simple, functional stations that invited a few minutes of movement between views. I tried the elliptical-style machine for a minute, watching the lake shimmer beyond the trees. Then I noticed a couple quietly standing nearby with binoculars pointed upward. Bird watching, it turns out, is quietly thriving here. Cardinals, egrets, and even the occasional hawk pass through the park, and a wooden sign posted trail-side offered tips on what to look for. "I love when a place reminds you to look up," I thought.
Swimming in Lake Travis
The lake was calling, so I made my way to the designated swim area, calm, roped off, and tucked beside a tree-dappled shoreline. Kids cannonballed in from the edge, and adults floated quietly in the shallows. The water was warm but refreshing, just enough to cool my skin and soften the day. "Not every swim needs a beach towel and a plan," I thought, letting the lake settle into my bones.
Playgrounds and Pickleball in Lakeway City Park
After drying off, I wandered toward the park’s two playgrounds, where slides, swings, and climbing structures buzzed with joyful energy. One was designed for younger kids, lower, colorful, and surrounded by soft mulch (you'll find it higher up in the park). The other offered more challenge for older ones (this playground is just along the lake).
Nearby, the pickleball courts were full, the sound of laughter and paddles echoing through the trees. "There’s something comforting about a place where everyone finds their corner," I thought, leaning on the fence to watch a few volleys.
Dog Park and Butterfly Garden
The dog park sat in its own shady enclave, where pups raced across turf and owners chatted along the fence. A Golden Retriever flopped in a kiddie pool, tongue lolling, while a dachshund barked enthusiastically at nothing in particular. I wandered next to the butterfly garden, where bright blooms, milkweed, lantana, salvia, welcomed pollinators and gave the afternoon one more quiet detail to admire. "Even the insects are at peace here," I smiled, watching a monarch hover over the lavender.
Picnic Tables, Benches and BBQ Pits
Everywhere I turned, there were picnic tables tucked into thoughtful places, some under pergolas, others beneath sprawling trees. Families gathered over Tupperware spreads, and a few groups grilled over the built-in BBQ pits, the scent of smoke and sizzling sausage drifting through the air. I sat for a while at an empty table, just listening to it all: laughter, wind, distant birds. "This is what weekends are made of," I thought, letting my shoulders drop a little more.
Events in the Park
The park’s open layout also hosts community events, from movie nights on the lawn to music in the pavilion and seasonal gatherings under string lights. While I didn’t catch one this time, flyers near the entrance teased upcoming events: an evening concert, a dog costume parade, a family art day. "This place doesn’t just hold space, it creates it," I thought, making a mental note to return when the lights come on.
If you plan to kayak, you can borrow a vest for free before you get in.
Lakeway City Park At a Glance
- Location: 502 Hurst Creek Road, Lakeway, TX
- Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, nature-wrapped
- Highlights: Lake swimming, scenic walking paths, two playgrounds, pickleball courts, outdoor exercise equipment, bird watching spots, dog park, butterfly garden, picnic and BBQ areas, community events
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for full use of the lake, trails, and events
- Cost: Free entry and parking
- Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
Final Thoughts
Lakeway City Park didn’t ask me to do much, just show up. And in exchange, it offered a day of stillness, sunshine, and moments that felt refreshingly unplanned. Whether I was on the trail, in the water, on the fitness path, or quietly scanning the trees for birds, the park gave me exactly what I hadn’t realized I needed: space to enjoy the little things, right where I was.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
