Whether you’re a lifelong local or are just visiting our special city for the first time, there’s no denying that Austin has one of the most iconic skylines around.
From the Capitol building to the Frost Bank tower to Lady Bird Lake —there’s no city that does it quite like ATX. These are just a few of our favorite spots where you can get the most breathtaking views of downtown Austin. So, get out of your house and enjoy all that this city has to offer.
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Contributed by Sadie Jane
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photo via The Loren
1211 W Riverside Dr
Situated on the southside of Lady Bird Lake is The Loren Hotel, where you can witness a nearly perfect view of the Austin skyline. Take the glass elevator up to their rooftop restaurant and bar, Nido, for a delicious meal with a beautiful backdrop. Their seasonal, modern American menu influenced by the Texas Hill Country paired with some refreshing cocktails make this one of our favorite spots in town to experience the skyline.
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Photo credit: Roger Ho
2207 Lou Neff Rd
Anyone who has ever been to Austin will tell you that Zilker Park is a must-see. This popular spot offers a stunning view of Austin’s iconic skyline and acres of lush green space for park-goers (and their four-legged friends) to enjoy. Zilker also plays host to the annual local events like the Austin City Limits Music Festival and Trail of Lights.
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701 W Riverside Dr
Located along Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin, the Long Center is home to many local events both inside its doors and on its vast rolling lawn. Even if you don't attend an event here, you can still visit the Long Center lawn and enjoy a breathtaking view of Austin’s skyline. Pro tip: grab a picnic basket and head over around dusk for the perfect sunset view.
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Photo credit: Roger Ho
1820 S Lakeshore Blvd
Lady Bird Lake is one of Austin’s most popular biking and running destinations. Located near the Long Center, the boardwalk trail offers a different but equally beautiful view of the city skyline at any time of day or night. Those who decide to visit the trail in the evening during the summer months can catch a glimpse of the bats flying under the iconic Congress Bridge around 7:45 p.m.
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Photo credit: Roger Ho
Loop 360 And Lake Austin
The Pennybacker Bridge, also known as the 360 Bridge, straddles beautiful Lake Austin and is the perfect place to go if you’re in the mood for some light hiking and great views. Though it’s located further from the city skyline, this natural area offers a removed perspective of downtown Austin. Follow along the trail for a scenic overlook that is sure to take your breath away.
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3800 Mount Bonnell Rd
Also known as Covert Park, Mount Bonnell is located alongside the Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River. This popular scenic spot has been frequented by tourists since the 1850s and offers an unforgettable view of Austin’s rolling hill country, cityscape, and iconic Lake Austin. Take a short hike to the top of this “mountain” for the perfect backdrop to your next Instagram photo.
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Photo credit: T. Kahler Photography
Doug Sahm Hill Path
Built in honor of Texas music legend Douglas Wayne Sahm, Doug Sahm Hill Summit is a popular spot for Austin visitors and locals alike. You can find this special destination nestled between Riverside and Barton Springs Road in Butler Park with a spectacular view of the Austin skyline. It’s the perfect place to stop and take in Austin’s scenery while you catch your breath from Town Lake Park's many hiking and biking trails.
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Photo credit: Roger Ho
1000 Barton Springs Rd
Butler Metro Park, formerly known as Town Lake Metro Park, is located near Austin’s well-known Auditorium Shores and offers a variety of unique features. Park-goers can experience an observation hill overlooking Lady Bird Lake, a children’s garden, and a beautiful meadow. It’s a great place to hike or ride a bike or even have a picnic set to the backdrop of the breathtaking Austin skyline.
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Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
This little scenic overlook is located just off Austin's downtown Butler Hike & Bike Trail (aka Town Lake Trail) and just northeast of Zilker Park on the south side of the river where Barton Creek meets Lady Bird Lake. The Lou Neff Point Gazebo offers a perfect photo op of the downtown city skyline over the Colorado River with the Lamar Bridge in the background. There are also a few benches and seating areas to relax while taking in the views.
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photo via Austin Parks
900 W Riverside Dr
Known for hosting eclectic festivals, concerts, and other local events, Auditorium Shores is also a great place to spend an easy afternoon with your dog. This urban park is nestled right in the heart of Austin, offering stunning views of Lady Bird Lake and the city skyline. It’s also a great spot for your pupper to enjoy some swimming if the algae is gone. Make sure to check water safety updates with local officials.
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Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail
Last, but certainly not least, is the James D. Pfluger Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge spanning Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin. Since 2001, the bridge has connected the north and south sides of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail offering riders and hikers beautiful views of the city. Many have described the bridge as more of a linear park that allows you to stop and enjoy Austin’s scenery all along the way.
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OTHER SPOTS FOR SKYLINE VIEWS
600 E Riverside Dr
2901 S Capital of Texas Hwy
3001 S Congress Ave
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Where's your go-to spot?
