Barton Springs Pool

Barton Springs Pool is Austin's crown jewel — a three-acre, spring-fed swimming pool nestled inside Zilker Park that stays a constant 68-70 degrees year-round. Fed by underground springs from the Edwards Aquifer, this is not a man-made attraction but a geological wonder that has drawn people for thousands of years. For families, it offers something no waterpark can: real, living water in a natural limestone setting surrounded by ancient pecan trees.

The pool has distinct zones that make it work for all ages. The south side features a gradual entry with water depth of 1-3 feet, perfect for toddlers and little kids to wade and splash. The main pool area ranges from 5-18 feet deep, giving confident swimmers plenty of room.

A diving board on the deep end attracts tweens and teens. Lifeguards are on duty during regular hours, and the bottom is natural limestone — beautiful but slippery, so water shoes are recommended.

The experience goes beyond swimming. The grassy hillside surrounding the pool is a destination in itself — families spread out blankets, set up camp chairs, and spend entire afternoons reading, napping, and snacking while kids shuttle between the water and the grass. The massive trees provide genuine shade, which in a Texas summer is worth its weight in gold.

Kids regularly spot sunfish, turtles, and if they're lucky, the endangered Barton Springs salamander that lives nowhere else on Earth.

Practically speaking, the pool is remarkably affordable. Adult admission is $5, kids 1-11 are $4, and children under 1 are free. Compare that to any waterpark in Texas.

Free swim runs from 5-8 AM daily before lifeguards arrive (swim at your own risk). The facility has changing rooms, restrooms, and lockers. There's no food sold at the pool itself, but Zilker Park has food trucks nearby, and Barton Springs Road is lined with restaurants.

The biggest mistake visitors make is arriving on a summer Saturday at noon. The pool hits capacity and a line forms. Instead, come on weekday mornings, late afternoons, or during the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) when the water temperature feels even more refreshing against the warm air.

The pool is closed on Mondays and Thursdays for cleaning — check the schedule before heading out.