Many of Austin’s outdoor attractions are accessible to those who are mobility impaired. We’ve put together a guide for ADA accessible parks, trails, and playgrounds! No matter how mobile you may be, this list can be helpful for people using walkers, wheelchairs, those bringing young children along, and more.
Please keep in mind that “accessible” is not a universal definition, as all abilities differ. If you have specific questions, please call ahead and ask! It is also recommended that you check the status of each locations hours and availability due to COVID-19.
Playgrounds:
Eanes Elementary School
4101 Bee Cave Road
This playground features inclusive play equipment that welcomes kids and families of all abilities to learn and play! The playground also includes a ramp to access elevated portions of the playscape, plus very flat Astroturf throughout the grounds.
Play For All Park
151 North A.W. Grimes Boulevard, Round Rock
This 51,000-square-foot playground in Round Rock accommodates special-needs kids for therapy, learning, and playing. The Play for All Park features a retreat pod, a sensory pod sand box, rock band pod, rolling hill, and an all abilities playscape and swing set. The park recently expanded to include a drive-thru restaurant, a car wash (with misters!), an automotive center, and a train pod. The park is heavily shaded and away from any busy roads.
Bridge Pint Elementary School
6401 Cedar Street
In 2013, this northwest elementary school playground got a face lift to make the site more ADA compliant. During the build, the school put in padded Astroturf, wide ramps, and expanded the grounds in general to make more room. They also installed interactive games throughout the playground including an American Sign Language guide.
Creative Playscape
1003 North Austin Avenue, Georgetown
The city of Georgetown revamped this once wooden park of tunnels and towers to a shiny new playground that is much more ADA accessible. The new build was able to incorporate the unique history of Georgetown in the new playground site, such as a triple slide to represent the water falls along the San Gabriel River.
Trailhead Park
10984 Boulder Lane
Not only does this neighborhood park in Canyon Creek feature a trail, but it also has a sports field, basketball court, kid’s playground, and pavilion. The playground is has ample amount of room and includes a wheelchair accessible main playscape that is fully shaded.
Children’s Park
205 South CM Allen Parkway, San Marcos
This elaborate pirate and mermaid themed playground features rubber flooring that is great for wheelchairs. The park is also very spacious with plenty of room, including ramps to access play equipment.
Nature Trails and Parks:
Bee Cave Loop Park
13742 Bee Cave Parkway
Bee Cave Loop is a 1.4 mile paved loop that is accessible all year round. There are some light to moderate inclines depending on the direction you go.
Pedernales Falls State Park
2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City
For any bird watching fans out there, this is the spot! Pedernales Falls State Park features a bird blind that has a 100-foot asphalt trail approach with an asphalt flooring inside. Parking is very close to the trail.
The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake
Multiple entrance points
In June 2014, the boardwalk was completely revamped to feature a very well paved concrete trail that is wide enough for multiple people. The city also installed an ADA accessible pier to take in the breathtaking views of Lady Bird Lake. Check out our helpful tips for visiting the broadwalk!
Gardens
Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum
605 Azie Morton
Umlauf Garden is partially wheelchair accessible. The paths are paved with loose gravel, so some areas can be tougher to roll over than others.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
4801 La Crosse Avenue
The center’s grounds, paths, and buildings are all wheelchair accessible. Furthermore, all wheelchair-accessible trails are marked on the center’s map. All paths are well paved and offer enough space.
Looking for more fun playgrounds around Austin? Check out these spots:
