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Austin Adventure: A Full Day of Texan Charm and Diversity

Walking Tour

Walking Tour

distance

9.0 km (5.6 miles)

duration

2h 4min travel time

stops

11 Stops

location

Austin, United States

Austin Adventure: A Full Day of Texan Charm and Diversity

Austin Adventure: A Full Day of Texan Charm and Diversity
Austin Adventure: A Full Day of Texan Charm and Diversity 2
Austin Adventure: A Full Day of Texan Charm and Diversity 3

Tour Stops

1
LBJ Presidential Library
LBJ Presidential Library

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2
Texas Science & Natural History Museum
Texas Science & Natural History Museum

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3
Blanton Museum of Art
Blanton Museum of Art

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4
Bullock Texas State History Museum
Bullock Texas State History Museum

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5
Texas Capitol
Texas Capitol

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6
The Driskill
The Driskill

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7
Austin Central Library, Austin Public Library
Austin Central Library, Austin Public Library

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8
Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum

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9
Barton Springs Municipal Pool
Barton Springs Municipal Pool

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Audio Narrations
English
  • Introduction

    Fed by the Edwards Aquifer, Barton Springs Pool maintains a constant 68-degree Fahrenheit temperature year-round, making it a refreshing oasis in the heart of Austin. The pool's natural spring source, the fourth-largest in Texas, pumps an astounding 36 million gallons of water daily, ensuring a pristine and ever-changing swimming experience. The pool's unique location within Zilker Park, a sprawling urban green space, adds to its allure. Lush trees and vibrant wildflowers frame the expansive pool, creating a picturesque backdrop for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Barton Springs is more than just a swimming pool; it's a vibrant community hub where locals and visitors alike gather to soak in the natural beauty and lively atmosphere. On weekends, the pool transforms into a bustling social scene, with live music performances, food trucks, and a diverse crowd enjoying the laid-back Austin vibe. The pool's historic bathhouse, built in the 1930s, adds a touch of nostalgia to the experience, transporting visitors back to a simpler time. Barton Springs Pool is a testament to Austin's unique blend of nature and urban life. It's a place where people come together to celebrate the outdoors, community, and the simple joy of swimming in a natural spring. Whether you're seeking a refreshing dip, a social gathering, or a connection with nature, Barton Springs Pool offers an unforgettable experience.
  • Environmental Activism

    Barton Springs Municipal Pool: A Hub for Environmental Activism in Austin Nestled in the heart of Austin, Texas, Barton Springs Municipal Pool is more than just a refreshing escape from the Texas heat. It's a vibrant hub for environmental activism, where passionate individuals converge to protect the natural wonder that sustains the pool and its surrounding ecosystem. The Barton Springs Conservancy, a dedicated non-profit organization, spearheads efforts to preserve and enhance the pool's experience for all. Through fundraising and community engagement, they've played a pivotal role in the ongoing rehabilitation of the historic Barton Springs Bathhouse and the development of educational exhibits that highlight the endangered Barton Springs Salamander, water quality, and conservation practices. Beyond the pool itself, the Bull Creek Foundation champions the harmonious balance between nature, recreation, and sustainable development within the Bull Creek watershed. This volunteer-driven organization recognizes the interconnectedness of the Barton Springs ecosystem and advocates for responsible land use practices that safeguard the delicate ecological balance. The Central Texas Water Coalition takes a broader approach, focusing on the preservation and conservation of the Highland Lakes, the primary source of Austin's drinking water. Recognizing the finite nature of this resource, they advocate for water conservation and efficiency measures, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Barton Springs ecosystem. Friends of Barton Springs Pool, a dedicated group of volunteers, actively work to restore the pool to its former glory. They organize regular clean-up events, advocate for infrastructure improvements outlined in the Barton Springs Master Plan, and promote safety measures within Barton Creek. These organizations, along with countless passionate individuals, demonstrate the power of collective action in protecting Barton Springs. Their dedication to environmental activism ensures that this natural treasure remains a source of enjoyment and inspiration for generations to come.
  • Natural Spring-Fed Pool

    Barton Springs Municipal Pool, a crown jewel of Austin, Texas, is a three-acre natural spring-fed pool that draws visitors from all walks of life. The pool's constant 68-70 degree Fahrenheit temperature, thanks to the underground springs, makes it ideal for year-round swimming. The pool's unique features include its depth, ranging from 0 to 18 feet, and its surrounding grassy areas for lounging. The endangered Barton Springs Salamander calls the pool home, making it a federally protected habitat. To ensure the well-being of both the salamander and visitors, the pool undergoes a vigorous cleaning process every Thursday from 9 am to 7 pm, during which it is closed to the public. The pool's history is as rich as its waters. From legislators who have concocted state laws there to free-spirited sunbathers, Barton Springs has witnessed a diverse crowd over the years. Even Robert Redford learned to swim in its refreshing waters. Today, the pool continues to attract record-breaking numbers of visitors, nearing 800,000 in recent years. Adjacent to the pool lies Splash!, an educational exhibit that delves into the history and biology of Barton Springs and the Edwards Aquifer that feeds it. Visitors can learn about the intricate ecosystem that sustains this natural wonder and the importance of its conservation. Barton Springs Municipal Pool is more than just a swimming hole; it's a vibrant community hub, a historical landmark, and a testament to the power of nature. Its crystal-clear spring-fed waters offer a refreshing escape from the Texas heat, while its rich history and ecological significance provide a deeper connection to the natural world.
Full audio tour available in the app
10
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker Metropolitan Park

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11
Zilker Botanical Garden
Zilker Botanical Garden

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Experience the Full Tour

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