Zilker Park hosts the Austin City Limits Music Festival and Pease Park celebrates Eeyore's birthday, but there's so much more to Austin than meets the eye. Weave your way through the Austin neighborhoods and explore off the beaten path. These are the seven best secret parks in Austin, and you'll definitely want to visit.
1. Sparky Park
Not many people know about this pocket park tucked away on 3701 Grooms Street, but it's definitely worth the visit. Sparky Park was once the site of the North Austin Electric Substation, but it transformed into this colorful park in 2009. The lot is full of whimsical murals designed by artist Berthold Haas. You'll feel like you're walking though a fairy tale at Sparky Park.
2. Mary Moore Searight Park
This South Austin park, located at 907 Slaughter Ln, is a true hidden gem. With 344 acres full of horseback trails, disc golf courses, and fishing piers, Mary Moore Searight Park can keep you busy all day. The shaded trees are perfect for picnics and the brisk hiking trails are surrounded in beauty.
3. Ramsey Park
Located at 4301 Rosedale Ave, Ramsey Park has something for everyone. You can spend the day hitting the tennis court, swimming in the pool, or soaking up the sun. Ramsey Park is also home to Something for Nothing Theatre's regular Shakespeare performances.
4. Red Bud Isle Park
Red Bud Isle Park's lush greenery and refreshing waters are a must-visit. You can let your pup run free at this off-leash dog park located at 3401 Redbud Trail.
5. Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park
Shh! Don't let this place get too popular. Commons Ford Park gives Zilker a run for its money. Sitting at 614 Commons Ford Rd, this park is pure paradise. It's not uncommon to see people munching on burgers while playing with their dogs on a breezy Sunday afternoon. Bring your fishing pole and see what you catch in Lake Austin! Commons Ford Park will soon become your new favorite place.
6. Springwoods Park
People of all ages flock to Springwoods Park, located at 9117 Anderson Mill Rd. You'll hear children giggle as they climb through this massive playground, and adults love to spend time at the volleyball courts, hiking trails, and shaded gazebo.
7. Dick Nichols District Park
Make the trip to Dick Nichols District Park. Not many people know about this neighborhood favorite, but it is packed with charm. Located at 8011 Beckett Rd, Dick Nichols Park has everything from barbecue pits to basketball courts. There are 17 playgrounds and an exciting water play area, making it a hit with children on the weekends.
Where's your favorite secret park in Austin? For more secluded spots, visit these 10 secret places in Austin where nature will completely relax you.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!