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Everything You Need to Know About Barton Springs Pool
Why Barton Springs Pool is a Must-Visit in Austin
People in the water with Austin skyline in the background for article Everything You Need to Know About Barton Springs Pool for newcomers moving to Austin.

If there’s one place that defines summer in Austin, it’s Barton Springs Pool. Nestled in the heart of Zilker Park, this three-acre spring-fed pool is a year-round attraction for swimmers, sunbathers, and nature lovers alike.

Fed by underground natural springs, the water maintains a refreshing average temperature of 68–70°F, making it perfect for cooling off during Texas heatwaves. But Barton Springs isn’t just a pool—it’s a local institution with history, character, and a unique ecosystem worth exploring.

Hours and Admission

Barton Springs Pool is open daily, but hours can vary by season and day of the week. The pool typically closes one day a week (usually Thursday) for cleaning

  •  General Hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM (with guarded swim between 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM)
  •  Closed for cleaning: Usually every Thursday from 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  •  Free swim hours: Before 8:00 AM and after 8:00 PM

Admission Fees:

  • Adults (18–62): $5 (resident), $9 (non-resident)
  • Seniors (62+): $2 (resident), $5 (non-resident)
  • Youth (1–17): $3 (resident), $5 (non-resident)
  • Under 1 year: Free

What to Bring

  • A towel and blanket—grassy slopes surround the pool and are great for lounging.
  •  Swim shoes or sandals—the limestone can be slippery.
  • Refillable water bottles—no glass or alcohol is allowed.
  • Cash or credit—entry fees can be paid on-site or online.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

  • Arrive early on weekends—parking fills up quickly by mid-morning.
  • Morning swims (before 8:00 AM) are free and less crowded.
  • Dogs are not allowed inside the pool gates but are welcome at the adjacent Barking Springs.
  • Bring a mask or snorkel—the underwater views are surprisingly scenic.
  • There’s no food sold inside, but you can picnic in Zilker Park right outside.

A Brief History of Barton Springs

Barton Springs Pool has been a gathering place for centuries. The springs were considered sacred by Indigenous peoples long before William Barton settled the area in the 1830s. The city of Austin officially developed the pool in the 1920s, and since then it’s become one of the city’s most iconic outdoor landmarks.

Ecology and Preservation

The pool is home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander, and its clear, spring-fed waters are carefully monitored to protect this delicate ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to avoid sunscreen with harmful chemicals and to stay on designated paths to reduce environmental impact.

 

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