If the urban hubbub is too much, go west. With its rolling hills, gorgeous views, scenic drives, elegant resorts, waterfront restaurants and multiple lakes, you’ll see an entirely different side of the city. Take a break and make it a lake day in West Austin.

Neon sign with "The Switch" in capital letters and a bull head mounted on a white wall.The Switch. Credit Wyatt McSpadden.

Dining

Find everything from Indian and Nepalese fusion dishes at Saffron to locally roasted coffee in a waterfront setting at Mozart’s in West Austin. Plus, find the original location of local legend, Tacodeli, on Barton Skyway. The restaurant caters to the local breakfast taco craze that Austinites can’t resist, serving up favorites like The Otto (Organic refried black beans, bacon, avocado and Monterrey Jack cheese in a flour, corn or wheat tortilla) every day.

The Beer Plant: Stop in here for a totally plant-based menu and an expansive draft list. 

County Line on the Lake: Relish waterfront Texas-style barbecue and an all-you-can-eat option for you hungry folks.

Hula Hut: Feast on Tex-Mex with a Polynesian twist on a festive deck overlooking Lake Austin.

Oasis on Lake Travis: Grab a bite at Oasis for dinner and a show. The sunset views are stunning from the multistory deck perched over the lake.

Oasis Texas Brewing Company: Enjoy a pint and big juicy burger while taking in the bustling Lake Travis scene below.

Shore Raw Bar & Grill: You'll find fresh oysters, crudos and whole grilled fish at this regional coastal restaurant. Taste flavors of cuisines from Texas, Louisiana and Mexico with fresh local ingredients cooked over a wood fire grill.

The Switch: Load up your tray with heaping helpings of sausage, smoked turkey and St. Louis pork ribs. Stop in on Saturday and Sunday for a one-of-a-kind barbecue brunch.

People swimming laps at Deep Eddy Pool, with bystanders sitting along the edge with their feet in the water.Deep Eddy Pool. Credit Alexandra Reichek.

Outdoors

Nature awaits in West Austin. At over 100 years young, Deep Eddy Pool is the oldest swimming pool in Texas. No chlorine here—the pool is filled with fresh well water. Lake Austin and Lake Travis are major outdoor attractions, perfect for boating, fishing and relaxing lakeside.

Bee Cave Sculpture Park: Take in seven acres of rotating sculptures situated amongst towering oak trees and a spring-fed pond. 

Lake Travis Zip Line Adventures: Get your heart pounding by soaring across canyons and over Lake Travis' blue waters. 

Mount Bonnell: Hike 106 steps for a bird's-eye view of the Hill Country and Lake Austin, one of the best views in town.

Red Bud Isle: Take the trail or kayak down to this haven for happy off-leash dogs.

Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve: Hike through Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve to enjoy a well-maintained trail and wildlife habitat

Flo's owners standing behind green-tiled bar with glasses of wine.Flo's. Credit Mackenzie Smith Kelley.

Entertainment

Whether you're looking for that next spot for live music, to explore the area's history or just a spot to rest for great drinks, West Austin has it all.

Austin Tour Company: Enjoy transportation to the Deep Eddy Distillery in Dripping Springs every Sunday, departing from downtown at 1 p.m. Expect three hours of touring and sipping at this local vodka producer’s digs.

Clarksville Historic District: Sprinkled throughout the Clarksville Historic District, among quaint cafes and small boutiques, are a host of state-of-the art galleries that would impress that most knowledgeable of art aficionados.

The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria: Take in some culture al fresco with a trip to this contemporary art museum and outdoor sculpture garden offering exhibitions and permanent installations on a lush 14-acre site along Lake Austin.

Deep Eddy Cabaret: Around since 1951, this local-owned dive bar is the perfect spot to grab a cheap beer after a day in the sun or to cheer on your favorite sports team.

Flo's Wine Bar: New to the West Austin scene is Flo's Wine Bar & Bottle Shop, created by best friends of almost 25 years, Flo Clemons and Adair Belisle. Conveniently located near some of West Austin's scenic gems like Mount Bonnell & Mayfield Park and Preserve, this laid-back space is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. Grab wine by the glass or a bottle to go, and munch on pizza from Allday Pizza onsite. 

Jester King Brewery: If you have a hankering for an ale, head out to the tasting room at Jester King Brewery. This local legend is known for its spontaneously fermented beers and ever-rotating tap list. Tour the brewery, explore the farm and enjoy perfect pizzas under the oaks.

Miraval Resort and Spa Discovery Pool in Austin TexasCourtesy of Miraval Austin.

Resorts & Hotels

Want to stay close to West Austin? Enjoy luxury spa treatments, lovely accommodations and a variety of family-friendly activities at Lake Austin Spa Resort, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, Lakeway Resort and Spa and Miraval Austin. Get away to quaint and proper accommodations at Sonesta Bee Cave Austin Hill Country or The Wayback.

Looking for more lodging in West Austin? Learn more about our nearby hotels and resorts here.