Austin has it all. It’s the live music capital of the world filled with culture and history and it’s got some of the best scenic views in the state. Whether you’re walking, cycling, or running, you’ll find yourself admiring the great beauty of Austin’s surroundings. Here are the best scenic overlooks in Austin, Texas.
1. Mount Bonnell
Location: 3800 Mt. Bonnell Drive, Austin, TX, 78731
This Austin overlook is located alongside the Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River and offers a breathtaking view of the city below. You can also see the Colorado River, as well as enjoy some excellent hiking trails. If you’re looking for mountain views without having to go too far out of town, this is one of our favorite scenic spots in Austin!
2. Pennybacker Bridge / 360 Bridge
Location: 5300 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78730
The 360 Bridge in Austin offers magnificent views of downtown Austin and is especially beautiful at sunset. If you’re looking for a romantic spot to watch the sunset with someone special, this is the place for you! It’s also one of the popular spots for marriage proposals in Austin, TX. The view from above is breathtaking, and it’s even better on a clear day.
3. The Oasis on Lake Travis
Location: 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732
The Oasis on Lake Travis is a great place to spend the day if you’re looking for the best views of Lake Travis. Located on a cliff 450 feet above Austin’s Lake Travis, The Oasis has become a well-known jewel nestled in the Austin Hill Country and is also known as The Sunset Capital of Texas. Most guests from all around the world visit The Oasis to witness the breathtaking views while dining with their loved ones. Watch one of the most spectacular sunsets you’ll ever lay your eyes on at The Oasis!
4. McKinney Falls Scenic Overlook
Location: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744
This scenic overlook is located just north of Austin and offers a beautiful view of McKinney Falls. This hidden gem has a designated picnic area and two waterfalls called Upper and Lower falls. There are two large swimming holes, nine hiking trails, and over 80 campsites throughout the 641-acre park.
5. The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake
Location: 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd, Austin, TX 78741
The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake offers a nice walk through downtown Austin. It’s also a great place to bring a dog, as there are plenty of benches for him to rest on while you walk around. You’ll get some great views of the city from this boardwalk, which runs along both sides of Lady Bird Lake.
It’s a great place to take pictures and see the city from a different perspective. The Boardwalk also has close proximity to plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions along it for you to check out.
6. The Cliffs over Lake Austin
Location: The Cliffs over Lake Austin, Austin, TX 78731
The Cliffs over Lake Austin is a neighborhood located west of Loop 360 to the north shore of Lake Austin to the east of the Pennybacker bridge. This scenic lookout and trail is home to stunning waterfront homes nestled atop a cliff overlooking Lake Austin.
7. Lou Neff Point
Location: Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, Austin, TX 78746
Lou Neff Point is a high point with a gazebo overlooking downtown Austin and the Town Lake Trail, also known as the Butler Hike and Bike Trail. It’s an awesome spot to take a break from running or walking around the lake and offers a great photo opportunity of the downtown Austin skyline over the Colorado River.
Best Outlooks in Austin, TX
We all like the beautiful views of nature, scenery, the downtown Austin skyline, and all the other things that make Austin so unique. But sometimes, we need to get away from it all and just relax. Admire the breathtaking views of some of the beautiful places in Austin, Texas.
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