Barton Springs Pool
ExperienceZilker#04 of 50

Barton Springs Pool

Austin, Texas

Photo: Konrad Rubio

A 68-degree natural spring-fed swimming pool in the middle of the city. It's three acres of crystal-clear water that stays cold year-round, and Austinites treat it like church. Go early on a weekday morning before the crowds. Float on your back and stare at the sky. This is the thing people mean when they talk about old Austin.

Insider tip

The south side is free and less maintained — that's where the locals go.

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