The Best Places For Scenic Views Of Austin

Visitors and locals alike can take in the beauty of Austin from bridges, boardwalks, hills, and more. The most beloved views include those of Lady Bird Lake, downtown Austin, and the Texas State Capitol. Regardless of your preference, the destinations below prove to be the perfect spots in which to capture the scenery of Texas’ capital. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Mount Bonnell

Mount Bonnell is one of Austin’s historic landmarks, attracting visitors since the 1850s and still offering one of the best views of Austin. There’s a small hiking trail with man-made stairs that lead up to various viewing spots. You can enjoy the scenes of the Colorado River and admire the mansions along the river’s edge. If you look carefully, you may even spot Sandra Bullock’s mansion that she recently sold. The best time to visit is during sunset, but expect crowds.

360 Bridge (Pennybacker Bridge)

The Oasis on Lake Travis

The Oasis on Lake Travis, a multilevel restaurant, is a lovely way to relish a drink while taking in the picturesque surrounds as nearly all seating provides customers with great scenes of the lake. The most popular time to enjoy a meal is during sunset when the scenery proves to be the most beautiful; therefore, you can spend the day swimming or boating on the lake before heading over to The Oasis to enjoy the sunset and a margarita. While there’s typically a lengthy wait for sunset dining, don’t be afraid to visit during other times of the day because the view is bound to be spectacular at any time.

The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake

The Boardwalk Trail at Lady Bird Lake beckons

This fairly new walking trail has quickly become an Austin favorite. With seven different viewing areas, you can look at scenes of downtown, kayakers on Lady Bird Lake, and art displayed along the way. The artwork includes 36 bronze western-style belts engraved with the lyrics of well-known Texas singers. The sunset on the boardwalk is perfect for a romantic date or a casual stroll with your dog in tow.

Congress Avenue from Town Lake

This list might seem incomplete without including the Texas State Capitol, so for some stunning views of the Capitol, walk down Congress Avenue from Lady Bird Lake (Town Lake). You can stop for a bite, or enjoy a little shopping, but be sure to have your camera ready to capture some majestic shots of this grand building.

Traveling with the kids? Discover our guide to the best family-friendly hotels in Austin, now bookable via Culture Trip.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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