Texas Hill Country Visitors Guide

Hill-Country.net

Lady Bird Lake is a standout destination in the Texas Hill Country, right in the heart of Austin. This scenic reservoir on the Colorado River is surrounded by rolling hills, limestone cliffs, and lush greenery that define the region’s natural charm. The lake stretches over six miles through downtown Austin and offers a unique blend of city energy and Hill Country tranquility, making it an ideal spot for outdoor and water recreation.

One of the lake’s biggest draws is its accessibility for water sports. With motorized boats prohibited, the calm waters are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and rowing—activities that let visitors soak in the surrounding Hill Country views. Whether gliding past oak-shaded banks or beneath Austin’s skyline, paddlers get the best of both worlds: natural beauty and urban convenience. Rental shops and clubs like The Rowing Dock and Texas Rowing Center make it easy to get out on the water.

The Texas Hill Country influence is especially felt in the lake’s laid-back atmosphere. Locals and tourists alike come to unwind, explore nature, and enjoy the slower pace that defines the region. Lady Bird Lake is also a favorite spot for competitive rowers and dragon boat teams, thanks to its wide stretches and predictable conditions, all set against a backdrop of rugged hills and big Texas skies.

Austin Skyline across Town Lake

After hitting the water, visitors can explore nearby Hill Country landmarks like Zilker Park or Barton Springs, just a stone’s throw from the lake. And as the sun sets, the nightly bat flight from the Congress Avenue Bridge offers a one-of-a-kind natural spectacle. Lady Bird Lake is more than just an Austin attraction—it's a peaceful gateway to the Texas Hill Country’s outdoor lifestyle.

Capitol View Condos`

Austin, TX

Capitol View Condos by One Fine Bnb - Paramount in Austin offers a spacious setting with free WiFi. The property includes one bedroom and one bathroom, ensuring comfort for all guests. The holiday home features air-conditioning, a balcony, washing machine, and a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, oven, and stovetop. Additional amenities include a TV, tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, and free toiletries. Located in the city center, the property is less than 0.6 mi from the Capitol Building and Texas State Capitol. Shoal Beach is an 18-minute walk away, while Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is 6.8 mi distant. Nearby attractions include the University of Texas and Frank Erwin Center.

Contemporary Couples Getaway`

Austin, TX

Contemporary Couples Getaway Near Austin Favorites - Loft 21 in Austin offers a one-bedroom apartment with a fully equipped kitchen, air-conditioning, and free WiFi. Guests enjoy a garden and private entrance. The apartment includes a washing machine, patio, and outdoor furniture. Additional features are a work desk, TV, and electric vehicle charging station.Located 3.7 mi from Austin Convention Center and 5.6 mi from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the property is near attractions such as Capitol Building and Circuit Of The Americas. Highly rated for its kitchen, host, and convenient location, the apartment ensures a pleasant stay.

Longhorn II`

Austin, TX

Longhorn II in Austin offers a spacious apartment with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property includes a terrace and a fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances. Guests enjoy free WiFi, air-conditioning, and a work desk. Additional amenities include a dining area, TV, and free toiletries. Located 1.1 mi from the University of Texas at Austin and 1.2 mi from the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is 8.1 mi away.

Moody and Bright`

Austin, TX

Moody and Bright - Peaceful St less than 5 min to the Action in Austin offers a one-bedroom apartment with a balcony and patio. The property includes air-conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, and a work desk. Guests enjoy free WiFi, luggage storage, and a private entrance. Additional amenities include a TV, microwave, and free toiletries. Located 1.8 mi from Shoal Beach and 4.3 mi from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the apartment is near attractions such as the Capitol Building and Circuit of the Americas. Boating is available in the surrounding area.

Colton House Hotel`

Austin, TX

Colton House Hotel in Austin offers spacious rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Guests enjoy free WiFi, balconies, and kitchenettes equipped with refrigerators, microwaves, and stovetops. Exceptional Facilities: The hotel features a fitness center, terrace, bar, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and outdoor seating area. Additional amenities include a lounge, coffee shop, electric vehicle charging station, and bicycle parking. Prime Location: Located 6.2 mi from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as the Austin Convention Center (2.2 mi) and the University of Texas (4.3 mi). Boating is available in the surrounding area.

Hotel Saint Cecilia`

Austin, TX

Located within 0.8 mi of Austin Convention Center and 1.6 mi of Barton Springs Pool, Hotel Saint Cecilia in Austin offers record players in each room and rooms with free WiFi. Each accommodations at the 5-star hotel has pool views, and guests can enjoy access to an outdoor swimming pool featuring six poolside bungalows. The hotel provides a terrace and a 24-hour front desk. Guest rooms at the hotel are fitted with a seating area and a flat-screen TV. The rooms are equipped with a private bathroom, while some feature a river view. All units at Hotel Saint Cecilia feature air conditioning and a desk. The daily breakfast offers à la carte and American options. Guests can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, which specializes in American cuisine. Capitol Building is 1.6 mi from the accommodations, while Frank Erwin Center - University of Texas is 1.9 mi from the property. The nearest airport is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, 6.2 mi from Hotel Saint Cecilia. Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.9 for a two-person trip.

Hotel San Jose`

Austin, TX

Located 1 mi from Austin Convention Center, Hotel San Jose offers 4-star accommodations in Austin and has an outdoor swimming pool. This property is set a short distance from attractions such as Palmer Events Center and Town Lake. Barton Springs Pool is 1.5 mi away. At the hotel, all rooms come with a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom, while some rooms also boast a terrace. Free WiFi is accessible to all guests A continental breakfast is served daily at the property. Staff at Hotel San Jose are always available to provide guidance at the reception. Capitol Building is 1.6 mi from the accommodations, while Frank Erwin Center - University of Texas is 2.1 mi from the property. The nearest airport is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, 6.2 mi from the property. Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.9 for a two-person trip.

Hotel ZaZa Austin`

Austin, TX

The Inn at Green Pastures in Austin offers luxurious rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room features a balcony or patio, providing stunning city or inner courtyard views. Guests can enjoy a fitness center, sun terrace, and lush garden. The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi, and a variety of dining options including brunch, lunch, and dinner. Additional facilities include a bar, outdoor seating area, and picnic spots.Located 6.2 mi from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the hotel is close to attractions such as the Capitol Building (3.1 mi) and Austin Convention Center (2.5 mi). Paid on-site private parking is available, and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is 6.2 mi away

Kasa Downtown Austin`

Austin, TX

Offering an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness center, Kasa Downtown Austin is an aparthotel set in the heart of Austin, not far from Austin Convention Center. Each unit at the aparthotel is fitted with air conditioning, private bathroom and a kitchen including a dishwasher, oven and a microwave. A toaster, a fridge and stovetop are also provided, as well as a a coffee maker. Kasa Downtown Austin offers a terrace. Capitol Building is a 12-minute walk from the accommodations, while Frank Erwin Center - University of Texas is 1.2 mi from the property. The nearest airport is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, 6.2 mi from the property. Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip.

The Inn at Green Pastures`

Austin, TX

The Inn at Green Pastures in Austin offers luxurious rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room features a balcony or patio, providing stunning city or inner courtyard views. Guests can enjoy a fitness center, sun terrace, and lush garden. The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi, and a variety of dining options including brunch, lunch, and dinner. Additional facilities include a bar, outdoor seating area, and picnic spots.Located 6.2 mi from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the hotel is close to attractions such as the Capitol Building (3.1 mi) and Austin Convention Center (2.5 mi). Paid on-site private parking is available, and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is 6.2 mi away

Austin Retreat Hot Tub and Relaxing Patio`

Austin, TX

Austin Retreat Hot Tub and Relaxing Patio offers a spacious holiday home in Austin, Texas. The property features six bedrooms and four bathrooms, ensuring ample space for guests. Guests enjoy free WiFi, air-conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen with a coffee machine, microwave, and dishwasher. Additional amenities include a hot tub, terrace, balcony, washing machine, and barbecue facilities. Located 5 mi from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and 1.2 mi from Disch-Falk Field, the property is close to attractions such as the University of Texas and Frank Erwin Center. Boating opportunities are available in the surrounding area.

Capitol View`

Austin, TX

Capitol View DT w Elevator with Free Swim Club Access in Austin offers a spacious 4,101 sq. ft. holiday home with six bedrooms and four bathrooms. The property includes a living room and a fully equipped kitchen. Guests enjoy a spa and wellness center, free WiFi, elevator, 24-hour front desk, waterpark, and luggage storage. Additional amenities include air-conditioning, balcony, washing machine, and a fireplace. Located in the city center, the holiday home is a 7-minute walk from Frank Erwin Center and less than 0.6 mi from Moody Center. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is 6.2 mi away. Nearby attractions include Capitol Building and University of Texas at Austin.

East Austin Modern Bungalow`

Austin, TX

East Austin Modern Bungalow in Austin offers a sun terrace, garden, and free WiFi. Guests can relax in the outdoor seating area or enjoy the picnic space. The holiday home features two bedrooms and three bathrooms, air-conditioning, a kitchenette, balcony, washing machine, and TV. Free on-site private parking is available. Located 2.9 mi from Frank Erwin Center and 3.7 mi from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Nearby attractions include Moody Center and Texas Memorial Stadium. Boating is available in the surroundings.

East Austin Retreat`

Austin, TX

3BR 2BA East Austin Retreat w Putting Green, Sun Deck and Office by Austin Vacay offers a spacious holiday home in Austin. The property includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a comfortable living room. Guests enjoy free WiFi, air-conditioning, a washing machine, and a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, oven, stovetop, microwave, dishwasher, and toaster. Additional amenities include a work desk, TV, and free toiletries. Located 5 mi from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the property is near attractions such as Frank Erwin Center and Capitol Building, both 1.6 mi away. Boating opportunities are available in the surrounding area.

Luxe Home`

Austin, TX

Luxe Home Minutes from UT & Downtown in Austin offers a spacious holiday home with three bedrooms and three bathrooms. The property features a private entrance and a fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances. Guests can enjoy a beautiful garden and a patio with city views. The outdoor space includes a barbecue and outdoor furniture, perfect for relaxing and entertaining. The holiday home provides free WiFi, air-conditioning, and a washing machine. Additional amenities include a dishwasher, microwave, and free toiletries.Located 5.6 mi from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, the property is a short walk from Moody Center and Texas Memorial Stadium. Nearby attractions include the Capitol Building and Circuit Of The Americas.

The Treecycle`

Austin, TX

The Treecycle offers a spacious holiday home in Austin, featuring a garden, tennis court, and free WiFi. Guests can relax in the outdoor seating area or enjoy the picnic area. The property includes air-conditioning, a kitchenette, and a dining area. Additional amenities include a tea and coffee maker, garden views, and a private entrance. Located 1.7 mi from Shoal Beach and 4.3 mi from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, The Treecycle provides easy access to local attractions. Boating opportunities are available in the surrounding area.

Planning on bringing your boat to the Highland Lakes?

Clean, Drain and Dry your boat to prevent the spread of zebra mussels and other invasive species.