Zilker Park

One of almost 200 parks in Austin, Zilker is the largest and most popular of the well-used facilities. Located just south of Town Lake, this was originally the site of temporary Franciscan missions in 1730 and was later used a gathering place by native Americans.

One of its most attractive features is Barton Springs Pool, whose waters were once harnessed by early Austinites as power for several mills. The springs rise from a limestone strata of the Balcones Fault, created millions of years ago when an earthquake formed the Hill Country. The clear springs produce a minimum of 12 million gallons to a maximum of more than 90 million gallons in any 24-hour period. Year-round, a flow of 68 degree water from the Edwards Aquifer fills this 1,000-foot-long pool, and no matter what the month you'll find some brave souls swimming laps in its chilly depths. Truly a symbol of Austin, this swimming pool is dear to the hearts of Austinites.

The park is also home to the Zilker Botanical Garden, which includes the Oriental Garden, a meditation trail, and the Rose Garden, as well as a Swedish log cabin dating from the 1840s. A Xeriscape Demonstration Garden displays more than 50 native and low water-use trees, shrubs, groundcovers, and wildflowers resistant to central Texas' hot summers. Nearby, the Cactus and Succulent Garden features mostly native West Texas cactus and succulents.

The Isamu Taniguchi Oriental Garden is highlighted by blooming cherry trees from mid-March through Mid-April, followed by blossoming water lilies into the fall months. The Mabel Davis Rose Garden features beds ranging from the latest All-America Rose Society award winners to the antique shrub roses of the Republic of Texas collection. Peak blooming times are April to June and October.

The Herb and Fragrance Garden contains dozens of culinary and fragrant plants among the raised beds. The Hamilton Parr Memorial Azalea Garden, in bloom during March and April, contains dazzling azalea beds surrounding a shaded flagstone patio.

Finally, the Douglas Blachly Butterfly Trail showcases local flowers and plants which attract numerous species of Texas butterflies. Visitors can view Austin’s attractive butterflies and migrating species as well.

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