West Lake Hills TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near West Lake Hills, Texas.
1. Barton Creek Greenbelt
NATURAL WILDERNESS TRAIL
The Barton Creek Greenbelt offers visitors miles of hiking and biking trails through lush wilderness areas in West Lake Hills. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy swimming holes, rock climbing opportunities, and scenic views along the creek. The greenbelt serves as a natural oasis just minutes from downtown Austin, providing a perfect escape into nature.
2. West Lake Beach
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
West Lake Beach provides a picturesque waterfront experience for visitors seeking lakeside recreation in West Lake Hills. Families can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and relaxing on the sandy shores with views of Lake Austin. The beach area offers a peaceful retreat with amenities for day-long enjoyment.
3. West Lake Hills Shopping District
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
The West Lake Hills Shopping District boasts an eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores for shoppers seeking unique items. Visitors can stroll along charming streets while browsing local shops offering everything from artisan crafts to designer fashions. The district's welcoming atmosphere creates a memorable shopping experience with one-of-a-kind treasures to discover.
4. Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
PROTECTED NATURAL HABITAT
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve encompasses 227 acres of protected habitat featuring native plants and wildlife in the West Lake Hills area. Hikers can explore well-maintained trails winding through woodland areas while observing local ecology and scenic overlooks. The preserve also functions as an educational center with programs highlighting conservation efforts and natural history.
5. Mount Bonnell
SCENIC PANORAMIC VIEWPOINT
Mount Bonnell stands at 775 feet, offering sweeping panoramic views of the Austin skyline, Lake Austin, and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can climb 106 steps to reach the summit, where breathtaking vistas provide perfect photo opportunities at any time of day. This iconic landmark is especially popular for sunrise viewing and sunset picnics with loved ones.
6. The Haunted Austin Walking Tour
SPOOKY HISTORICAL EXPERIENCE
The Haunted Austin Walking Tour takes brave participants through the supernatural side of the city with stories of local hauntings and historical mysteries. Tour guides share chilling tales of ghostly encounters while leading visitors to reportedly haunted locations throughout the area. This popular attraction combines entertainment with local history for a uniquely spooky experience.
7. Museum of Ice Cream
INTERACTIVE SWEET EXPERIENCE
The Museum of Ice Cream delivers a whimsical, immersive experience centered around everyone's favorite frozen treat. Visitors can explore colorful, Instagram-worthy installations while sampling various ice cream flavors throughout the interactive exhibits. The museum combines art, imagination, and dessert into a playful attraction suitable for all ages.
8. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
NATIVE PLANT BOTANICAL GARDEN
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center showcases the beauty and diversity of native Texas plants across its extensive botanical gardens. Visitors can wander through themed garden spaces, meadows, and nature trails while learning about conservation and ecological restoration. The center honors the former First Lady's environmental legacy while providing educational programs and seasonal displays of Texas wildflowers.
9. Red Bud Isle
DOG-FRIENDLY PARK ISLAND
Red Bud Isle is a 13-acre off-leash dog park situated on a small island in Lake Austin, perfect for pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy walking trails that circle the island while their four-legged companions splash in the surrounding waters. The park provides a unique recreational experience with water access, shady spots, and beautiful views of the lake.
10. The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria
LAKESIDE ART MUSEUM
The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria combines modern art with natural beauty on a historic 14-acre estate along Lake Austin. Visitors can explore outdoor sculpture gardens featuring rotating installations by international artists amid Italian-inspired architecture and landscaped grounds. The museum offers a tranquil setting where art, history, and nature create a multisensory cultural experience.
11. Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center
GEOLOGICAL WONDER TOURS
Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center offers guided tours through lush canyons and picturesque grottoes showcasing the natural wonders of Texas Hill Country. Visitors can experience the iconic "Fern Grotto" while learning about the region's geological and historical significance from knowledgeable guides. The center functions as an outdoor classroom where conservation and exploration come together in a captivating natural setting.
12. Sunset Bat Watching Kayak Tour
UNIQUE WILDLIFE VIEWING
The Sunset Bat Watching Kayak Tour offers a unique perspective on Austin's famous bat colony as they emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Participants paddle along Lady Bird Lake at dusk to witness the spectacular natural phenomenon of 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats taking flight. The tour combines water recreation with wildlife viewing for an unforgettable Austin experience.
13. Sixth Street Entertainment District
HISTORIC NIGHTLIFE HUB
Sixth Street Entertainment District pulses with energy as Austin's premier destination for nightlife, live music, and entertainment. Visitors can explore historic buildings housing numerous bars, restaurants, and music venues featuring performances across various genres. This iconic street showcases Austin's reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World with something happening every night of the week.
14. South Congress Avenue
ECLECTIC SHOPPING CORRIDOR
South Congress Avenue features a vibrant collection of eclectic shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues showcasing Austin's unique character. Visitors can browse through vintage stores, local boutiques, and art galleries while enjoying street performers and food trucks along the way. The avenue offers stunning views of the Texas State Capitol building and represents the diverse, creative spirit of Austin.
15. Moody Theater
PREMIER LIVE MUSIC VENUE
Moody Theater serves as the permanent home for the iconic Austin City Limits television show, the longest-running music program in television history. The state-of-the-art venue hosts performances by world-class musicians in an intimate setting with exceptional acoustics and sightlines. Visitors can experience Austin's renowned music scene in a venue designed to create perfect live music experiences for artists and audiences alike.