Barton Springs

The Basics

Located in Zilker Metropolitan Park near downtown Austin, the natural limestone pool ranges from dip-your-toes-in to more than 18 feet (5.5 meters) deep. You might encounter fish and turtles, and it’s home to the endangered Barton Springs salamander. There’s a diving board, and a grassy area for sunbathing, and lifeguards on duty. Combine your trip to Barton Springs with an Austin bike tour that ends with a dip in the pool.

Things to Know Before You Go

• During most guarded swim times, there are is a fee with discounts for seniors, youth, residents, and veterans.

• Food, smoking, and alcohol are prohibited.

• Lifeguards are on duty for much of the day.

How to Get There

Barton Springs is within Zilker Park, which you can access from Barton Springs Road. It’s immediately southwest of downtown Austin across the Colorado River. From downtown, take Congress Avenue south across the Congress Avenue Bridge, which turns into 1st Street. Turn right on Barton Springs Road, and look for Zilker Park signs and the pool. Parking is available near the pool (there’s a parking fee on weekends).

When to Get There

From March through September, the pool is open 5am to 10pm daily, with a lifeguard on duty during posted hours each day (you can swim for free at your own risk outside of these hours). The pool is closed Thursday from 9am to 7pm for cleaning and habitat maintenance. Given the cool temperature of the water, summer is the best time for a dip.

Did You Know?

Barton Springs has a fascinating history. Robert Redford is said to have learned to swim at the pool at age 5. Topless sunbathers were common in the 1970s. Barton Springs is home to the Barton Springs salamander, an endangered, federally protected species. And it’s never been more popular: a record-setting 800,000 visitors have enjoyed Barton Springs Pool in recent years.

Is it free to park at Barton Springs?

No, it is not free to park at Barton Springs Pool. There are seasonal paid parking stations throughout the park with daily fees around $7 from 8am to 10pm on weekends and holidays. However, those who love an early morning swim can park for free all year round.

Do you need cash for Barton Springs?

No, you don't need cash for Barton Springs, but you can still pay with cash if you prefer. Admission can be pre-purchased online or at the door with credit or debit cards. You don't have to carry any payment method if you have seasonal passes.

Does it cost money to swim at Barton Springs?

Yes. It costs $9 per adult (non-resident), though there are discounts for children and seniors, and veterans receive free entry. Seasonal passes allow greater discounts all summer, while residents can get admission for as little as $5 per adult.

Can you bring your own food to Barton Springs?

No, you cannot bring you own food to Barton Springs. Among the prohibited items listed are outside food, coolers, thermal bags, glass, and alcohol. Drinks are permitted but must be in a plastic re-sealable container. For food, you'll find plenty of great restaurants and cafes in the surrounding neighborhood that you can access with an exit stamp.

Do you need water shoes for Barton Springs?

Water shoes are not required at Barton Springs, but they can make your experience a bit more enjoyable. While the water is clean, the rocks can be very slippery—water shoes will help you grip the ground as you enter and exit the pool.

Are there toilets at Barton Springs?

Yes, there are toilets and even showers at the entrance to Barton Springs included in your entry fee. This means you can wash and change before and after a swim and use the facilities during your visit without having to leave the complex.

Ways to explore

Located in the vast Zilker Metropolitan Park near downtown Austin, this natural limestone pool ranges from dip-your-toes-in shallow to more than 18 feet (5.5 meters) deep. You might encounter fish and turtles during your outing, and the area is also home to the endangered Barton Springs salamander.

There’s a diving board, a grassy area for sunbathing, and lifeguards on duty at select times, so you’re welcome to stop by for a quick swim or while away the hours. Consider combining your trip to Barton Springs with an Austin bike tour that ends with a dip in the pool.

Accessibility

Barton Springs is ADA-accessible, although ramps leading to the water may be slippery, and access may be tricky for some.

Age limits

None, although young children must be supervised.

What to pack

Bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, change of clothes

What to wear

Wear weather-appropriate clothing, plus sandals and a bathing suit.

Not allowed

Coolers, food and alcohol, smoking, pets

Amenities

Bathhouse, bathrooms, showers

Address 

Barton Springs is situated within Zilker Metropolitan Park, just a quick trip from downtown Austin. You can get there by car, taxi or rideshare service, or use local buses. Some tours, including Austin bike tours, also make stops at Barton Springs.

Driving

To get to Barton Springs from downtown Austin, take North Lamar Boulevard to Barton Springs Road. The journey takes as little as 10 minutes, and parking lots are provided on site.

Public transportation

Barton Springs can be reached via the 30 bus from downtown Austin; the journey is around 20 minutes, and requires a short walk.

Best times to visit

Barton Springs is typically open from early in the morning until late in the evening. Lifeguards are on-site from mid-morning until early evening, making this an ideal time to visit if you want to swim.

Best days to visit

Aim for a weekday if you want to beat the weekend crowds. Avoid Thursdays, when the pool is closed for cleaning for most of the day.

Best months to visit

The most popular time to visit Barton Springs is during the summer months, when the cool water provides a reprieve from the scorching Austin weather. However, the pool is open year-round.

Special events

A popular time to visit is during the Austin City Limits music festival, held in Zilker Park in early October.