Zilker Botanical Garden

By Robert Macias

Austin Expert, about.com

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Situated on 26 acres of gently rolling terrain, Zilker Botanical Garden is one of the main attractions at Zilker Park near Barton Springs in central Austin. For only $3, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll along well-marked paths dotted with everything from roses to giant bamboo. Many of the trails are shaded, so the temperature is fairly pleasant here even in the middle of summer.

Hartman Prehistoric Garden

Always a hit with kids, the Hartman Prehistoric Garden features a life-size replica of an Ornithomimus dinosaur.
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Tracks left behind by actual dinosaurs were discovered in 1992. Casts of the tracks are on display in the garden. With a variety of ferns, palms and conifers, the garden includes plants that may have been present in the Austin area during the Cretaceous period. Smaller sculptures are located throughout the garden to encourage little ones to explore and find them.

Isamu Taniguchi Japanese Garden

Stressed-out adults appreciate the tranquil vibe in the Japanese garden. Rocky paths wind past quaint ponds full of koi, small waterfalls and over ornate bridges. An authentic Japanese teahouse anchors one end of the garden, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. Several varieties of Japanese maple and bamboo are scattered throughout the space. While parts of the trail have dense greenery, other segments open up to reveal views of the downtown skyline.

Doug Blachly Butterfly Trail and Garden

In spring and fall, the butterfly garden is abuzz with activity. The garden features native plants that attract both resident and migrating butterflies. For those looking to bring a pop of lively color to their own gardens, this area can provide a wealth of ideas.

Mabel Davis Rose Garden

A must-see in spring and early summer, the rose garden is home to standard bush-type roses as well as climbing varieties.

Children’s Garden

The children’s garden includes another dinosaur, a lizard-like creature with pointy plants placed on its back to mimic the creature’s spiky spine.
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Beautiful and aromatic plants such as rosemary, iris and butterfly bush provide stimulation for the kids’ eyes and noses.

Zilker Garden Festival

Held every year in early spring, the Zilker Garden Festival celebrates all things botanical with a flower show, plant sale, kids’ activities and instructional gardening presentations.  

Year-Round Events

Throughout the year, Zilker Botanical Garden hosts informal classes, guest speakers and garden tours. Topics covered include how to photograph ants, where to find silk moth caterpillars, how to grow edible plants in your backyard and learning how to press flowers.

Tips

Don’t forget the bug spray. Particularly after a heavy rain, mosquitoes multiply quickly in Austin. Well-behaved dogs are allowed, but they must be on leash at all times. And make sure your pup stays out of the ponds.