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Located on the western edge of Zilker Park, the Austin Nature and Science Center (ANSC) is dedicated to the exploration of the natural world. Since 1960, ANSC has provided nature exhibits, education programs and recreation resources for countless visitors, teachers and children of all ages.
The ANSC provides hands-on educational exhibits and recreational activities that increase awareness and appreciation of the natural environment.
Within Zilker Park's 358 acres lies one of the crown jewels of Austin - Barton Springs Pool. Three acres in size, the pool is fed from underground springs and is, on average, 68 degrees year-round. Over the years, Barton Springs Pool has drawn people from all walks of life, from legislators who have concocted state laws there to free-spirited, topless sunbathers who turned heads in the 1970s. Robert Redford learned to swim at the pool when he was five years old while visiting his mother's relative in Austin. Today, Barton Springs still attracts a diverse crowd of people.
The Parks and Recreation Department maintains a multitude of parks where Austinites can walk their dogs, spend time with their kids, play sports on teams or even have a picnic in the sun. There's so much to do in the City's parks - and so many Austin parks for you to see and enjoy! Check out the Parks Directory to see information about all City Parks, or access the Parks and Facilities Viewer to find a park near you.
The Dougherty Arts Center (DAC) is an award-winning cultural arts center that offers a variety of visual, performing and digital arts experiences for a broad audience through its three programming components - the Dougherty Arts Center Theater, the Julia C. Butridge Gallery and the Dougherty Arts School.
As its residents know, Austin boasts a culture all its own. Surround yourself with the City's unique culture by visiting one of its museums and cultural centers. You'll be glad you did!
The Old Bakery and Emporium’s mission is to offer people 50 years and over opportunities to supplement their incomes and to develop second careers and encourages the appreciation and perpetuation of heritage handcraft skills.
The Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide variety of programs for children, adults and seniors. The majority of these programs are held at our 20 recreation centers. Programs at the recreation centers include arts, dance, fitness, card games, table games, gymnastics, tiny tots, boxing, karate, team sport leagues, after-school programs, day camps and a lot more. For a listing of individual classes, call the recreation center closest to your home or work, or view classes online.
The Parks and Recreation Department maintains four unique building facilities that may be reserved for meetings, events, weddings or social functions. Ranging from ranch houses to clubhouses, each facility has unique characteristics that will provide the perfect foundation for your next event.
The Parks and Recreation Department maintains several types of trails for hiking, biking, skating and other activities. View the trail directory to see the location and usage types of all City-maintained trails. Use the Parks GIS Viewer to find a trail near your location.
The Zilker Botanical Garden is ideally located in the center of Texas' capital city. The gardens are on parkland that is magnificently endowed by nature with handsome trees, natural grottoes and aquatic features that have been integrated into a design of spectacular beauty and tranquility.
The Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theater is located across from another of Austin’s celebrated wonders - Barton Springs Pool.
Zilker Metropolitan Park is considered "Austin's most-loved park." This 351-acre park is home to a variety of recreation opportunities and special events for individuals and families.
