Picnic, Play, & Hike

Words By Kaitlyn Pleasants  Photo by Matt Bradford

Summer has come and gone. Texas is cooling off where we can thoroughly enjoy the beautiful outdoors! This fall, explore what east Austin has to offer and peruse its many eclectic and scenic parks.

Roy G. Guerrero Park
Sporty and Scenic
Nothing says “Austin” like a park dedicated to disc golf. Known to locals as the best spot to play this mildly intense sport, Roy G. Guerrero Park is a great destination for running around and perhaps for some hiking. With its proximity to the lake, you will be spoiled by the view of downtown buildings across the way, too.
400 Grove Boulevard

Mueller Lake Park
Perfect for all Ages
The Mueller community has given east Austin plenty of local gems, and some of them are the array of beautiful landscapes and parks. Take Mueller’s Lake Park, for instance. The 30-acre park is centrally located in the Mueller community and boasts an open-air amphitheater, interactive playscape and a picnic peninsula, food trucks, and fishing – perfect for a day with friends or family members of all ages.
4550 Mueller Boulevard

Givens Park
East Austin Staple
Givens Park is situated between E. 12th Street and Springdale. The large park is complete with a recreation center, two softball fields and a neighborhood swimming pool to cool down in the scorching Texas heat. Historically, the park has been named after east Austin dentist and civic leader, Dr. Givens, since 1974 and is considered a cultural and communal staple on the east side.
3811 E. 12th Street

Edward Rendon Park
Perfect for Picnics
Head over to the Holly district,
and you’ve got Edward Rendon Park situated on Holly Shores. This park is right off Town Lake and is home to some of the best shady trees in town. Think better picnic weather and some of the best local music festivals.
101 Jesse E. Segovia Street

Govalle Park
Plenty to Explore
Govalle Park covers a large 26 acres of land, so there’s plenty to explore and a little bit for everyone. The park itself also covers part of the beautiful Walnut Creek Trail as well. Plus, there’s also ample space for basketball, baseball and getting in a last summer BBQ at one of its many BBQ stations.
2101 Jesse E. Segovia Street

Mueller Southwest Greenway
East Side’s Hike & Bike
Located near Mueller neighborhood, Mueller Southwest Greenway boasts a 10-foot wide hike and bike trail. The large trail is the secret to more space (and less crowding) if you prefer to keep some distance from many of Austin’s hiking destinations. And, if you’re feeling more educational, Mueller Southwest Greenway also offers educational stops and signs as you enjoy your time there.
2501 Tom Miller Street