Has the downtown hustle and bustle gotten the best of you? Does rush hour traffic leave you with a pounding headache? If outside stressors are threatening to take over your life, take the time to unwind at these gorgeous getaways. From enchanting coffee shops to tranquil trails, this city is full of relaxing spots. When you need a break from it all, go to these nine peaceful places in Austin.
- Alta’s Cafe
Alta’s Cafe/Facebook
Alta’s Cafe/Facebook Head over to the Waller Creek Boathouse and enjoy Lady Bird Lake’s stunning views. Alta’s Cafe specializes in perfectly roasted coffee, flaky pastries, and exquisite wines. As you stare into the shimmering water, you’ll slip into a blissfully relaxed state. Alta’s Cafe is located at 74 Trinity St.
Want to learn more? Read our feature article here.
- BookPeople
BookPeople/Facebook
Barbara Brannon/Flickr When life throws you curveballs, escape into a good book. As you scour the shelves at BookPeople, the smell of fresh coffee and sweet treats will greet you. Texas’ largest independent bookstore is also home to a lovely little cafe that’s full of comfortable nooks. You can find BookPeople at 603 N Lamar Blvd.
To learn more about this beloved local business, read our feature article here.
- The Pennybacker Bridge Overlook
Randall Chancellor/Flickr
sbmeaper1/Flickr Pack a picnic full of fine cheese and watch the sun set along Lake Austin. This iconic overlook is home to some of the most jaw-dropping views in the city. You can access this relaxing spot from 5300 N Capital of Texas Hwy.
- Laguna Gloria
The Contemporary Austin/Facebook
Pieter Edelman/Flickr Laguna Gloria began its life as a luxurious Italian style villa, but it’s now part of The Contemporary Austin. Whether you’re here for a drawing class or relaxing stroll, you’re certain to be charmed by its beauty. It’s no wonder couples choose this location for a wedding; the surrounding views are nothing short of idyllic.
You can read more about this stunning Austin gem in our feature article here.
- Mount Bonnell
Nicolas Henderson/Flickr
Randall Chancellor/Flickr Mount Bonnell is the highest natural overlook in the city, and the surrounding area is simply stunning. Don’t let the brief hike dissuade you. The end result is so worth it. Head over to 3800 Bonnell Dr. to take it all in.
- Zilker Botanical Garden
Heather Cowper/Flickr
Robin Horn/Flickr At The Zilker Botanical Garden, you’ll experience numerous different landscapes all in one place. Venture past a prehistoric wonderland and stroll across a tranquil foot bridge. The Zilker Botanical Garden can be found at 2220 Barton Springs Rd.
To learn more, check out our feature article here.
- The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Adam Rose/Flickr
Andreanna Moya Photography/Flickr There’s always something blooming at The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. As you explore the grounds, you’ll see a plethora of vibrant plants and whimsical wildlife. This stunning natural oasis is located at 4801 La Crosse Ave.
Want to see more wonderful pictures of this wildflower center? Read our feature article here.
- Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden
Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden/Facebook
Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden/Facebook Cosmic Coffee is home to comforting caffeinated beverages, inventive cocktails, and delicious food trucks. As you sip on your fizzy creation, you can explore the garden and say hi to the chickens. Cosmic Coffee will help you unwind and recharge. This beloved South Austin hangout is located at 121 Pickle Rd.
If you want to learn more about this truly Austin business, read our feature article here.
- The University Of Texas Turtle Pond
ivyst/Flickr
ivyst/Flickr As students rush between classes, you can stare into the peaceful waters of this turtle pond. Let your overworked mind take a break. This hidden gem will leave you feeling totally refreshed.
Where’s your favorite place to relax?
Alta’s Cafe/Facebook
Head over to the Waller Creek Boathouse and enjoy Lady Bird Lake’s stunning views. Alta’s Cafe specializes in perfectly roasted coffee, flaky pastries, and exquisite wines. As you stare into the shimmering water, you’ll slip into a blissfully relaxed state. Alta’s Cafe is located at 74 Trinity St.
Want to learn more? Read our feature article here.
BookPeople/Facebook
Barbara Brannon/Flickr
When life throws you curveballs, escape into a good book. As you scour the shelves at BookPeople, the smell of fresh coffee and sweet treats will greet you. Texas’ largest independent bookstore is also home to a lovely little cafe that’s full of comfortable nooks. You can find BookPeople at 603 N Lamar Blvd.
To learn more about this beloved local business, read our feature article here.
Randall Chancellor/Flickr
sbmeaper1/Flickr
Pack a picnic full of fine cheese and watch the sun set along Lake Austin. This iconic overlook is home to some of the most jaw-dropping views in the city. You can access this relaxing spot from 5300 N Capital of Texas Hwy.
The Contemporary Austin/Facebook
Pieter Edelman/Flickr
Laguna Gloria began its life as a luxurious Italian style villa, but it’s now part of The Contemporary Austin. Whether you’re here for a drawing class or relaxing stroll, you’re certain to be charmed by its beauty. It’s no wonder couples choose this location for a wedding; the surrounding views are nothing short of idyllic.
You can read more about this stunning Austin gem in our feature article here.
Nicolas Henderson/Flickr
Mount Bonnell is the highest natural overlook in the city, and the surrounding area is simply stunning. Don’t let the brief hike dissuade you. The end result is so worth it. Head over to 3800 Bonnell Dr. to take it all in.
Heather Cowper/Flickr
Robin Horn/Flickr
At The Zilker Botanical Garden, you’ll experience numerous different landscapes all in one place. Venture past a prehistoric wonderland and stroll across a tranquil foot bridge. The Zilker Botanical Garden can be found at 2220 Barton Springs Rd.
To learn more, check out our feature article here.
Adam Rose/Flickr
Andreanna Moya Photography/Flickr
There’s always something blooming at The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. As you explore the grounds, you’ll see a plethora of vibrant plants and whimsical wildlife. This stunning natural oasis is located at 4801 La Crosse Ave.
Want to see more wonderful pictures of this wildflower center? Read our feature article here.
Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden/Facebook
Cosmic Coffee is home to comforting caffeinated beverages, inventive cocktails, and delicious food trucks. As you sip on your fizzy creation, you can explore the garden and say hi to the chickens. Cosmic Coffee will help you unwind and recharge. This beloved South Austin hangout is located at 121 Pickle Rd.
If you want to learn more about this truly Austin business, read our feature article here.
ivyst/Flickr
As students rush between classes, you can stare into the peaceful waters of this turtle pond. Let your overworked mind take a break. This hidden gem will leave you feeling totally refreshed.
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