Jim’s guidebook

Jim
Jim’s guidebook

Cool off at the Pool(s)

Austin sure does love to cool off at the pool. Most neighborhoods in Austin have a public pool that is either free or very inexpensive.
The grand dame of Austin swimming spots. This spring fed oasis looks more like a lake than a pool and at 900 ft in length the laps can take a while. Barton Springs Pool is actually located right in the middle of the original Barton Creek but it is filled by crystal clear spring water that flows from distant hill country through a fractured limestone aquifer. Did I mention the the water is “refreshing”—hovering somewhere between 68-70F year round it can feel glacial on a hot summer day and like a tepid bath on a cold winter morning. Don’t worry you will get used to it. Admission is $9 for adults, $4-5 for youth. There are electronic kiosks near the entrances for purchasing passes with credit cards. Cash is also accepted at the gate. Open year round. Getting there-Located on the south side of Ladybird Lake it is usually easiest to go by car or Jump(electric) bike. If you go by bike take the Johnson Creek Hike and Bike which winds along and under the MOPAC railway/highway. Pay parking close by isn’t that plentiful but there are large overflow parking opportunities in fields nearby the pool. Nearby Food options-There are lots of good options nearby for a bite to eat. Directly outside the main gate lies the Barton Springs Cafe. Unfortunately, it is closed in 2019 for a complete renovation that will return it to its former 1950’s era glory. Until then there are a few food trucks serving burgers, frozen pizza, and ice cream novelties but the gate. Nothing special but sufficient. On Barton Springs Road, about a 10 minute walk, from the pool is the timeless Shady Grove. A Definite throwback to Old Austin this is a great place for a drink and casual dinner outside(if it isn’t too hot) or within the large (and cold) restaurant. If you are looking for something more upscale, Carpenters Hall, at 400 Josephine St serves American food in a delightfully repurposed union hall of yore. The attached coffee shop serves hi brow caffeinated options in good style.
2454 現地メンバーのおすすめ
バートン・スプリングス・プール
2131 William Barton Dr
2454 現地メンバーのおすすめ
The grand dame of Austin swimming spots. This spring fed oasis looks more like a lake than a pool and at 900 ft in length the laps can take a while. Barton Springs Pool is actually located right in the middle of the original Barton Creek but it is filled by crystal clear spring water that flows from distant hill country through a fractured limestone aquifer. Did I mention the the water is “refreshing”—hovering somewhere between 68-70F year round it can feel glacial on a hot summer day and like a tepid bath on a cold winter morning. Don’t worry you will get used to it. Admission is $9 for adults, $4-5 for youth. There are electronic kiosks near the entrances for purchasing passes with credit cards. Cash is also accepted at the gate. Open year round. Getting there-Located on the south side of Ladybird Lake it is usually easiest to go by car or Jump(electric) bike. If you go by bike take the Johnson Creek Hike and Bike which winds along and under the MOPAC railway/highway. Pay parking close by isn’t that plentiful but there are large overflow parking opportunities in fields nearby the pool. Nearby Food options-There are lots of good options nearby for a bite to eat. Directly outside the main gate lies the Barton Springs Cafe. Unfortunately, it is closed in 2019 for a complete renovation that will return it to its former 1950’s era glory. Until then there are a few food trucks serving burgers, frozen pizza, and ice cream novelties but the gate. Nothing special but sufficient. On Barton Springs Road, about a 10 minute walk, from the pool is the timeless Shady Grove. A Definite throwback to Old Austin this is a great place for a drink and casual dinner outside(if it isn’t too hot) or within the large (and cold) restaurant. If you are looking for something more upscale, Carpenters Hall, at 400 Josephine St serves American food in a delightfully repurposed union hall of yore. The attached coffee shop serves hi brow caffeinated options in good style.
The “other” spring fed pool in Austin. Like its bigger sibling across the lake this oversized pool features crystal clear-chlorine free water supplied by a well at rather refreshing temperatures(68-70F) year round. The pool is divided into two sections; one for lap swimmers and adults and another with a zero-depth entry that is favored by waders and novice swimmers. The tile mosaic mural on the retaining wall tells a nice history of the pool and the adjacent spot in the lake for which it is named. Admission is $9 for adults, $4-5 for youth. There are electronic kiosks near the entrances for purchasing passes with credit cards. Cash is also accepted at the gate. Open year round. Getting there-Less then 2 miles from the front door it is reasonable to amble to the pool through the quiet Tarrytown neighborhoods on days when the mercury hasn’t reached the stratosphere. We usually ride bikes or electric scooters down the Johnson Creek Hike and Bike. The pay parking lot will definitely fill up on nice weekend days which might tip the balance in favor taking a car share there ($5-7) each way. Nearby Food Options-Just a few steps from the entry gate you will find one of my favorite places in all of Austin-Pool Burger. Offering tropical themed cocktails and brilliant Wagyu burgers served out of an Airstream Trailer. This locals favorite is like a mini vacation to a tropical island. It can get very crowded at peak post pool dinning times. If you tire of the beach vibes the attached Deep Eddy Cabaret will transport you back in time to the way Austin (and frankly the rest of America) used to spend its Friday nights. Best characterized stylistically as a “dive bar” but really just a holdover neighborhood bar this is a pleasant place to cool your heels once the sun goes down. Pro tip-if the drink line at Pool Burger is too long there is a back door connecting directly to the Cabaret and you are free to take your drinks and food between the establishments.
322 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Deep Eddy Municipal Pool
401 Deep Eddy Ave
322 現地メンバーのおすすめ
The “other” spring fed pool in Austin. Like its bigger sibling across the lake this oversized pool features crystal clear-chlorine free water supplied by a well at rather refreshing temperatures(68-70F) year round. The pool is divided into two sections; one for lap swimmers and adults and another with a zero-depth entry that is favored by waders and novice swimmers. The tile mosaic mural on the retaining wall tells a nice history of the pool and the adjacent spot in the lake for which it is named. Admission is $9 for adults, $4-5 for youth. There are electronic kiosks near the entrances for purchasing passes with credit cards. Cash is also accepted at the gate. Open year round. Getting there-Less then 2 miles from the front door it is reasonable to amble to the pool through the quiet Tarrytown neighborhoods on days when the mercury hasn’t reached the stratosphere. We usually ride bikes or electric scooters down the Johnson Creek Hike and Bike. The pay parking lot will definitely fill up on nice weekend days which might tip the balance in favor taking a car share there ($5-7) each way. Nearby Food Options-Just a few steps from the entry gate you will find one of my favorite places in all of Austin-Pool Burger. Offering tropical themed cocktails and brilliant Wagyu burgers served out of an Airstream Trailer. This locals favorite is like a mini vacation to a tropical island. It can get very crowded at peak post pool dinning times. If you tire of the beach vibes the attached Deep Eddy Cabaret will transport you back in time to the way Austin (and frankly the rest of America) used to spend its Friday nights. Best characterized stylistically as a “dive bar” but really just a holdover neighborhood bar this is a pleasant place to cool your heels once the sun goes down. Pro tip-if the drink line at Pool Burger is too long there is a back door connecting directly to the Cabaret and you are free to take your drinks and food between the establishments.
West Enfield Pool-This is our neighborhood pool. Tucked into the West Enfield Park (playground, tennis courts) and just 1/2 mile form your front door this is a good option for a quick dip or to swim some laps. There is also a splash pool for the littlest swimmers. The water is usually very warm(80+). Open June-August and Free! Closed on Wednesdays. Getting there-An easy walk and should you drive parking on Sharon Lane/Bridle Path is never an issue. Nearby Food Options-nothing really close by
West Enfield Neighborhood Pool
2000 Enfield Rd
West Enfield Pool-This is our neighborhood pool. Tucked into the West Enfield Park (playground, tennis courts) and just 1/2 mile form your front door this is a good option for a quick dip or to swim some laps. There is also a splash pool for the littlest swimmers. The water is usually very warm(80+). Open June-August and Free! Closed on Wednesdays. Getting there-An easy walk and should you drive parking on Sharon Lane/Bridle Path is never an issue. Nearby Food Options-nothing really close by

Food and Drinks West Austin/Tarrytown

While West Austin isn't exactly known for its food and bar scene there are some nearby options that are well worth a visit.
Maudie’s Cafe 2608 W. 7th A neighborhood spot for an easy margarita and TexMex chow.
92 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Maudie's Cafe
2608 W 7th St
92 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Maudie’s Cafe 2608 W. 7th A neighborhood spot for an easy margarita and TexMex chow.
At an easy 5 minutes walking, this is by far the closest food and drink option the Beer Plant is nothing if not polarizing. A little back story…a few years back ownership of the commercial strip changed and the new landlord insisted that all of the business must be vegan. This meant that the old standby Tarrytown Diner was replaced by a newfangled vegan gastropub. Hand wringing ensued. The beer is great and the full bar serves top notch cocktails in a surpassingly charming space in spite of the homely strip mall exterior. There are a few outdoor tables in a secluded breezeway that are a nice option when the atmospheric conditions cooperate. I usually stick to the French fries and drinks. Overall-a nice date night spot or good place to have a nightcap.
47 現地メンバーのおすすめ
The Beer Plant
3110 Windsor Rd
47 現地メンバーのおすすめ
At an easy 5 minutes walking, this is by far the closest food and drink option the Beer Plant is nothing if not polarizing. A little back story…a few years back ownership of the commercial strip changed and the new landlord insisted that all of the business must be vegan. This meant that the old standby Tarrytown Diner was replaced by a newfangled vegan gastropub. Hand wringing ensued. The beer is great and the full bar serves top notch cocktails in a surpassingly charming space in spite of the homely strip mall exterior. There are a few outdoor tables in a secluded breezeway that are a nice option when the atmospheric conditions cooperate. I usually stick to the French fries and drinks. Overall-a nice date night spot or good place to have a nightcap.
Offering tropical themed cocktails and brilliant Wagyu burgers served out of an Airstream Trailer. This locals favorite is like a mini vacation to a tropical island. It can get very crowded at peak post pool dinning times. If you tire of the beach vibes the attached Deep Eddy Cabaret beckons for billiards and dimmer lighting.
57 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Pool Burger
2315 Lake Austin Blvd
57 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Offering tropical themed cocktails and brilliant Wagyu burgers served out of an Airstream Trailer. This locals favorite is like a mini vacation to a tropical island. It can get very crowded at peak post pool dinning times. If you tire of the beach vibes the attached Deep Eddy Cabaret beckons for billiards and dimmer lighting.
This place will transport you back in time to the way Austin (and frankly the rest of America) used to spend its Friday nights. Best characterized stylistically as a “dive bar” but really just a holdover neighborhood bar this is a pleasant place to cool your heels once the sun goes down. Pro tip-if the drink line at Pool Burger is too long there is a back door connecting the two establishments.
75 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Deep Eddy Cabaret
2315 Lake Austin Boulevard
75 現地メンバーのおすすめ
This place will transport you back in time to the way Austin (and frankly the rest of America) used to spend its Friday nights. Best characterized stylistically as a “dive bar” but really just a holdover neighborhood bar this is a pleasant place to cool your heels once the sun goes down. Pro tip-if the drink line at Pool Burger is too long there is a back door connecting the two establishments.
Black’s is one of the first families of the Central Texas barbecue scene this outpost offers all the flavor without the 45 minute drive to Lockhart. Believe it or not the meat is all cooked in the original pits in Lockhart and brought in fresh everyday.
99 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Black's Barbecue Austin
3110 Guadalupe St
99 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Black’s is one of the first families of the Central Texas barbecue scene this outpost offers all the flavor without the 45 minute drive to Lockhart. Believe it or not the meat is all cooked in the original pits in Lockhart and brought in fresh everyday.
An on trend breakfast/brunch spot that is always a crowd pleaser. There is a parking garage that is free with validation
214 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Snooze an AM Eatery
1700 S Lamar Blvd
214 現地メンバーのおすすめ
An on trend breakfast/brunch spot that is always a crowd pleaser. There is a parking garage that is free with validation
Situated on a short commercial stretch in an otherwise quiet neighborhood Julio’s offers casual Mexican cuisine to a neighborhood clientele. Don’t miss the fantastic roasted chickens for $12 and the perfect no frills margaritas($7). If the weather cooperates the outdoor patio is ideal. Order at the counter. There are couple of the worthy options within easy walking distance if the wait is too long.
96 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Julio's Cafe
4230 Duval St
96 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Situated on a short commercial stretch in an otherwise quiet neighborhood Julio’s offers casual Mexican cuisine to a neighborhood clientele. Don’t miss the fantastic roasted chickens for $12 and the perfect no frills margaritas($7). If the weather cooperates the outdoor patio is ideal. Order at the counter. There are couple of the worthy options within easy walking distance if the wait is too long.

Groceries

A small scale “big” grocery store that has most of what you would ever need.
133 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Randalls
1500 W 35th St
133 現地メンバーのおすすめ
A small scale “big” grocery store that has most of what you would ever need.
An upscale grocery owned by the Texas favorite HEB chain. They place is always busy, but for good reason. Featuring beautiful produce with unbelievable variety, great wine and beer selection, and free live music several nights a week on their spacious patio(with playground). Definitely a locals favorite. Pro tip-You are welcome to consume any beer or wine the you purchase at the store on their patio making it one of the cheapest places to have a drink in public.
765 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Central Market
4477 S Lamar Blvd
765 現地メンバーのおすすめ
An upscale grocery owned by the Texas favorite HEB chain. They place is always busy, but for good reason. Featuring beautiful produce with unbelievable variety, great wine and beer selection, and free live music several nights a week on their spacious patio(with playground). Definitely a locals favorite. Pro tip-You are welcome to consume any beer or wine the you purchase at the store on their patio making it one of the cheapest places to have a drink in public.
525 N Lamar Austin is where it all began for Whole Foods. This store is a monster and must be among the biggest in the franchise. Free parking in the garage and a nice roof top deck/cafe with views and ice skating in the winter.
1332 現地メンバーのおすすめ
Whole Foods Market
525 N Lamar Blvd
1332 現地メンバーのおすすめ
525 N Lamar Austin is where it all began for Whole Foods. This store is a monster and must be among the biggest in the franchise. Free parking in the garage and a nice roof top deck/cafe with views and ice skating in the winter.