Hi everyone, Sophia Ramirez here. Whether you’re craving fresh air, scenic views, or a brand-new thrill, Austin has plenty of ways to get outdoors and make the most of your weekends. Here are a few places I’ve recently scoped out that are worth adding to your adventure list.
The Confluence & Waterloo Greenway
The Confluence opened in early June 2026—and it’s quickly become one of the city’s favorite new urban escapes. This 13-acre stretch of parkland runs along Waller Creek from Fourth Street down to Lady Bird Lake. Expect walking and biking trails, native landscaping, gathering plazas, and the kinds of spots where you can picnic, read a book, or watch the skyline change as the light fades. It’s part of the larger Waterloo Greenway effort connecting downtown green space all the way to Lady Bird Lake. Great for a morning stroll or an evening wander.
COTALAND at Circuit of The Americas
Heads up: starting September 26, 2026, COTALAND opens its gates. This new amusement park brings rides, games, dining, and attractions to the Circuit of The Americas complex in Del Valle. Ideal for a day trip with friends or family—especially if you’ve been wanting something fresh in Austin’s entertainment scene. Tickets are already on sale, so if you’re planning ahead, now’s the time.
Parks & Trails Worth Your Time
Austin’s parks aren’t just for show—they’re action-packed and peaceful-at-once:
- Barton Creek Greenbelt: miles of shaded hiking, rock jumps, and creek dips. If you want some workout and river relief in one spot, this is it.
- Lady Bird Lake & Butler Trail: stroller-friendly, scenic, and centrally located. If you like people-watching, kayaking, or just need a loop that’s cool in the early morning or late afternoon, this is your jam.
- Zilker Metropolitan Park: 350+ acres of gardens, nature centers, open space, and iconic views of downtown. Ideal for picnics, frisbee, or just lying low under big trees.
- Pease Park: an easy escape closer to central neighborhoods with shady trails and a relaxing vibe. Perfect for dog walks or sketching under oak trees. A splash pad is also part of the mix—though check ahead to see if it’s open.
What to Know Before You Go
Some spots are in transition or have temporary closures:
- Belleville areas on the Ann and Roy Butler Trail near Brazos Street have detours due to utility work; some access points are blocked.
- Emma Long Metropolitan Park’s boat ramp and swimming access are closed Oct 12–Nov 30, 2026, because of lake drawdowns. Worth checking ahead if water activities are on your list.
Weekend Suggestions
Here’s how I’d build a great weekend around these options:
- Friday evening: sunset on the Butler Trail followed by dinner downtown.
- Saturday: early hike at Barton Creek, pack a lunch and head to The Confluence, end the day with evening rides and food at COTALAND.
- Sunday: slow start with coffee, loop through Zilker or Pease, and plenty of shade.
If you want ideas for specific events or kid-friendly options, I’ve got you covered—just say the word!