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.
Mount Bonnell
Location: 3800 Mt. Bonnell Drive, Austin, TX, 78731
Mount Bonnell isn’t just one of Austin’s highest points at about 781 feet above sea level, it’s a panoramic overlook where you can see the city’s diverse beauty all at once. From the summit, you get a 360° view encompassing Lake Austin below, the downtown skyline on the horizon, and the rolling western hills of the Texas Hill Country.
It’s an absolutely spectacular spot, especially famous as a sunset viewpoint where the sky’s colors reflect on the water and limestone cliffs. Locals even use Mount Bonnell’s romantic backdrop for proposals and engagement photos, it’s that gorgeous.
Pennybacker Bridge / 360 Bridge
Location: 5300 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78730
The Pennybacker Bridge (also known as the 360 Bridge) is an Austin landmark in its own right, a beautiful rust-colored arch bridge spanning Lake Austin, but the real treat is the view above it. A short hike up the cliff on the bridge’s north side leads to an overlook with a spectacular panorama of the Lake Austin river bend, the iconic arch of the 360 Bridge in the foreground, and verdant hills all around.
It’s one of the best sunset spots in the city: as the sun sets to the west, the sky and water light up in oranges and pinks, perfectly framed by the arch of the bridge. Photographers love this spot for capturing the bridge against colorful skies, and it’s a favorite for anyone looking to marvel at an “architectural marvel” amidst nature.
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!
McKinney Falls Scenic Overlook
Location: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744
McKinney Falls State Park is a bit farther out (13 miles southeast of downtown), but it earns a spot on this list for its unique scenic allure: natural limestone waterfalls and pools right in Austin’s backyard. The park’s namesake falls, the Upper and Lower McKinney Falls, cascade over wide rock ledges on Onion Creek, creating picturesque swimming holes and photogenic falls that flow especially beautifully after rain.
It’s a different kind of viewpoint, instead of looking out over a city, you’re looking around at pure natural beauty. The park also features trails that wind through Hill Country woods, leading to sights like a historic homestead and a towering old cypress named “Old Baldy.” In autumn, the creek’s banks turn golden with fall foliage, and in spring, wildflowers blanket the meadows.
The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake
Location: 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd, Austin, TX 78741
Opened in 2014, the Boardwalk is a newer gem on Lady Bird Lake’s south shore. This long winding boardwalk over the water gives you a unique panoramic view of downtown and the lake’s tranquil waters.
Standing on the boardwalk, you’ll see the entire Austin skyline stretch out before you from a beautiful water-level perspective. It’s especially stunning at night when the city lights reflect in the lake, or during the day with blue skies and maybe even bats flitting out from under nearby Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk.
Red Bud Isle
Location: 3401 Redbud Trail, Austin, TX 78746
If you’re looking for a peaceful waterfront escape within the city, Red Bud Isle is a hidden gem. This small island-park sits in Lake Austin just below Tom Miller Dam, and it’s surrounded by calm water and lush greenery on all sides. Walking the short loop trail at Red Bud Isle, you’ll be treated to lovely views of forested shoreline and limestone bluffs across the water, with ducks and paddleboats often gliding by.
During the golden hours, the light through the cypress and oak trees is gorgeous, and the lake surface reflects the sky, it’s a little slice of nature’s tranquility only minutes from downtown. It’s also a popular spot for fishing and picnics by the water.
Lou Neff Point
Location: Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, Austin, TX 78746
Lou Neff Point offers one of the classic Austin skyline views. Situated along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail where Barton Creek meets Lady Bird Lake, this little peninsula rewards you with a stunning panorama of downtown framed by water and trees.
Visit at sunrise for a magical scene, mist drifting off the water as the city’s high-rises catch the first light (a photo-worthy moment often captured by locals)
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.
Thinking of moving to Austin, Texas? Click here to speak with a relocation specialist to learn more!
Get updated on the latest events in Austin, TX. Subscribe to our newsletter below!
