O. Henry referred to Austin as “the city of the violet crown” because our sunsets glisten with a purple hue every evening. When night falls over our gorgeous skyline, that’s when people really fall in love with Austin. Watch nature’s nightly light show and feel your worries melt away. Here are 10 stunning places to watch the sun set in Austin that will blow you away.
- The top of Mount Bonnell
Andy/Flickr Goosebumps will pop up along your arms as you watch the sun go down over Mount Bonnell. If you’re really feeling romantic, bring your significant other and have a lovely, relaxing picnic.
- The Oasis on Lake Travis
David Ingram/Flickr Known as the “sunset capital of Texas,” The Oasis on Lake Travis lives up to its name. This gigantic restaurant was specifically built for maximum views, and there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Sip on a tangy margarita and watch nature put on a show. The Oasis on Lake Travis is located at 6550 Comanche Trail.
- McKinney Falls
Andy/Flickr The reflecting pools at McKinney Falls take on an otherworldly glow as night falls. Even though this state park sits within the city limits, the natural beauty will make you feel like you’ve traveled to the other side of the globe.
- South Congress Bridge
Brock Batsell/Flickr The South Congress Bridge isn’t just for bat-watching. Even when those little mammals migrate to Mexico for the season, you can still soak up the magnificent beauty around you. The colors reflect off the water and the city takes on a golden glow.
- Enchanted Rock
Brian Russell/Flickr Enchanted Rock is only a stone’s throw away from Austin, and these splendid sunsets are worth the drive. Take a day trip to Fredericksburg and spend the day hiking along the striking pink granite. When the sun ducks behind the clouds, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.
- The top of the Baylor Street Art Wall
Geoff Livingston/Flickr Wear your comfy sneakers and take the climb to the top of the Baylor Street Art Wall. From there, you’ll see hundreds of layers of paint shift colors as the sun casts its shadow over the city. The capital’s rotunda is in clear view, and the sight is enough to make any Texan’s heart swell up a little.
- Abel’s on the Lake
Abel’s on the Lake/Facebook There’s nothing like eating a scrumptious meal with a spectacular view. Abel’s on the Lake, located at 3825 Lake Austin Boulevard, has both. Sit back and enjoy the sights and tastes around you.
- On a kayak along Lady Bird Lake
Hi I’m Santi/Flickr Take in the sunset from water level and feel the peaceful bliss wash over you. Because Austin stays warm through most of the year, you can come back to this sunset spot any time you like.
- The Barton Creek Greenbelt
gina pina/Flickr No matter which entrance you choose, you’re sure to find miraculous views along the Barton Creek Greenbelt. This patch of undeveloped land will put you back in touch with nature.
- Red’s Porch
Bill/Flickr Head down to the ‘04 neighborhood and chow down on some Tex Mex/Creole/American food. Red’s Porch, located at 3508 S Lamar Blvd, overlooks the greenbelt and has some splendid views.
Where is your favorite place to watch the sun set?
Andy/Flickr
Goosebumps will pop up along your arms as you watch the sun go down over Mount Bonnell. If you’re really feeling romantic, bring your significant other and have a lovely, relaxing picnic.
David Ingram/Flickr
Known as the “sunset capital of Texas,” The Oasis on Lake Travis lives up to its name. This gigantic restaurant was specifically built for maximum views, and there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Sip on a tangy margarita and watch nature put on a show. The Oasis on Lake Travis is located at 6550 Comanche Trail.
The reflecting pools at McKinney Falls take on an otherworldly glow as night falls. Even though this state park sits within the city limits, the natural beauty will make you feel like you’ve traveled to the other side of the globe.
Brock Batsell/Flickr
The South Congress Bridge isn’t just for bat-watching. Even when those little mammals migrate to Mexico for the season, you can still soak up the magnificent beauty around you. The colors reflect off the water and the city takes on a golden glow.
Brian Russell/Flickr
Enchanted Rock is only a stone’s throw away from Austin, and these splendid sunsets are worth the drive. Take a day trip to Fredericksburg and spend the day hiking along the striking pink granite. When the sun ducks behind the clouds, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.
Geoff Livingston/Flickr
Wear your comfy sneakers and take the climb to the top of the Baylor Street Art Wall. From there, you’ll see hundreds of layers of paint shift colors as the sun casts its shadow over the city. The capital’s rotunda is in clear view, and the sight is enough to make any Texan’s heart swell up a little.
Abel’s on the Lake/Facebook
There’s nothing like eating a scrumptious meal with a spectacular view. Abel’s on the Lake, located at 3825 Lake Austin Boulevard, has both. Sit back and enjoy the sights and tastes around you.
Hi I’m Santi/Flickr
Take in the sunset from water level and feel the peaceful bliss wash over you. Because Austin stays warm through most of the year, you can come back to this sunset spot any time you like.
gina pina/Flickr
No matter which entrance you choose, you’re sure to find miraculous views along the Barton Creek Greenbelt. This patch of undeveloped land will put you back in touch with nature.
Bill/Flickr
Head down to the ‘04 neighborhood and chow down on some Tex Mex/Creole/American food. Red’s Porch, located at 3508 S Lamar Blvd, overlooks the greenbelt and has some splendid views.
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