Lady Bird Lake - Bucketlisted

Lady Bird Lake

Reservoir with city boardwalk & water sports

Save visits & photos across your bucket list — sign in to start.

No memories yet. Add your first visit to start a timeline.

Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

What’s new? Updated today

Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes

What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.

The easternmost reservoir on the Colorado River, Lady Bird Lake covers 468-acres of land and is up to 8 feet deep. It’s surrounded by hiking and biking trails, filled with water recreation, is dog-friendly, has a boardwalk with epic city views, and serves as one of the most versatile destinations for having fun in Austin, Texas.

Although it doesn’t allow swimming, you’ll find nearby Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park perfect for taking a dip. And if you’re interested in seeing the bat at Congress Street bridge, one of the best places to see them is from underneath, via kayak or canoe on Lady Bird Lake.

Originally known as Town Lake when it was formed along with Longhorn Dam in 1960, it was renamed Lady Bird Lake in 2007 in honor of the Lady Bird Johnson (first lady and wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson). She was appointed honorary chair of the project to revitalize the lake, which by 1971 had become an eyesore, and brought attention and financing to the project (including $19,000 of her own).

USA > Texas > Austin

Lakes, Landmarks, Nature, Parks

Lars Plougmann