In the heart of Zilker Park flows one of Austin’s true treasures: Barton Springs Pool, a three-acre swimming paradise fed by underground springs that keep the water at a refreshing 68 degrees every single day of the year. Rain or shine, winter or summer, the temperature never changes — and neither does Austinites’ love for this place.
The pool’s grassy hillsides are as famous as the water itself. Families spread blankets under century-old pecan trees, students read in the shade, and the legendary topless-optional, dog-friendly, wonderfully weird spirit of Austin is on full display. The south hill, nicknamed “Barking Springs” just past the fence, welcomes swimmers with their pups.
Early birds swear by the free swim-at-your-own-risk hours from 5 a.m., when mist rises off the warm-by-comparison water and the city is still quiet. Lifeguarded hours run through the day, and the pool stays open late into the evening for magical night swims under the Texas stars.
It is part swimming pool, part town square, part natural wonder — the endangered Barton Springs salamander even calls its waters home. Of all the happy places in Austin, this spring-fed gem might be the happiest of them all.
