The Best Places to See a Sunset in Austin
Austin is famous for its stunning sunsets, and whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of spectacular spots to catch the evening glow. From high cliffs to lakeside patios, here’s a curated list of the best places in Austin to enjoy a memorable sunset.
1. Oasis Texas Brewing on Lake Travis
Address: 6650 Comanche Trail Suite #301, Austin, TX 78732
Website: Oasis Texas Brewing
Description: Perched 450 feet above Lake Travis, this brewery offers award-winning craft beer and a fantastic sunset view. Skip the crowded restaurant next door and enjoy the same breathtaking panorama from the brewery’s balcony.
2. Hula Hut
Address: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
Website: Hula Hut
Description: Enjoy Tex-Mex with a “surfer twist” on the lakeside patio. This vibrant spot provides excellent views of the sunset over Lake Austin while you savor delicious food and cocktails.
3. Lady Bird Lake Trail
Address: Various access points around Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX
Description: The boardwalk and the pedestrian bridge under Mopac offer beautiful views of the sunset reflecting off the Colorado River, with the downtown skyline adding to the scene.
4. Covert Park at Mount Bonnell
Address: 3800 Mt Bonnell Rd, Austin, TX 78731
Website: Mount Bonnell
Description: As the highest point in Austin, Mount Bonnell offers panoramic sunset views. It’s a popular spot, so arriving early will help you secure a good vantage point.
5. South Congress Bat Bridge
Address: Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78704
Description: Famous for bat-watching, the Congress Bridge also offers stunning sunset views from its upper deck. The colors of the sunset reflect beautifully off the Colorado River.
6. Mozart’s Coffee
Address: 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
Website: Mozart’s Coffee
Description: Known for its beautiful lakeside patio, Mozart’s Coffee is an ideal spot to enjoy a sunset while sipping on coffee or dessert after a paddle on the lake.
7. McKinney Falls State Park
Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744
Website: McKinney Falls State Park
Description: Spend the day hiking or swimming, and end with a picnic dinner as you watch the sunset over the falls. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to experience the evening.
8. Pennybacker Bridge Overlook
Address: N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78730
Description: This overlook offers a dramatic sunset view after a bit of a climb. The effort is rewarded with an expansive view of the sun setting over the hill country.
9. Azul Rooftop Bar
Address: 310 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78701
Website: Azul Rooftop Bar
Description: Located atop the Westin Hotel, Azul offers stunning downtown views. Enjoy a cocktail as the golden hues of the sunset reflect off the city’s skyscrapers.
10. The UT Tower
Address: 110 Inner Campus Drive, Austin, TX 78705
Website: UT Tower
Description: For a unique sunset experience, head to the west observation deck of the UT Tower. The tower is open until 1 AM, providing a quieter, less crowded spot for sunset views.
11. Beerburg Brewing
Address: 13476 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736
Website: Beerburg Brewing
Description: Located in Dripping Springs, this brewery offers a serene sunset view with its outdoor deck overlooking the hill country. Enjoy craft beer and farm-to-table eats as you watch the sun set.
12. Zilker Park
Address: 2207 Lou Neff Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Website: Zilker Park
Description: While you might not see the sun dip below the horizon, Zilker Park provides ample space to enjoy the evening glow. It’s a great spot for picnicking and relaxing as the city transitions from day to dusk.
13. Skyline Theater at The Long Center
Address: 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
Website: The Long Center
Description: With its unobstructed view of the downtown skyline, The Long Center is a perfect place to enjoy the sunset and the ambiance of the evening hours.
14. Hotel Van Zandt Pool Deck
Address: 605 Davis St, Austin, TX 78701
Website: Hotel Van Zandt
Description: Enjoy sunset views from the pool deck of this stylish hotel. Whether you’re a guest or just visiting, the western-facing ledge offers a fantastic vantage point for sunset watching.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful lakeside retreat or a lively rooftop bar, Austin has the perfect spot for you to soak in its breathtaking sunsets.