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).