Barton Springs Pool

With its convenient location, accommodating size and reliably welcoming temperature, the Barton Springs Pool offers a relaxing and refreshing summertime destination for all of Austin, Texas. This pool is fed by several underground springs that keep it a moderate 68 degrees year round, making it possible for brave souls to plunge during the winter months. But with three acres of water and a declining depth from one foot in the shallows to 18 feet on the farther end, there's plenty of room for any and all swimmers during the spring and summer months as well.

How to Get to Barton Springs Pool
Right on Barton Springs Road and across from Zilker Metropolitan Park, the pool is easily found just west of the South Lamar neighborhood and east of the Mopac Expressway off the Barton Springs exit. At either entrance to the pool, on the east or west, there are parking lots available, as well as additional parking across the street in the park.

Best and Worst Time to Go to Barton Springs Pool
While the pool is pretty heavily populated throughout the entire summer, parking and access to the pool is nearly impossible during the Austin City Limits Music Festival in the fall, which is held in Zilker Metropolitan Park. The best time to go for a swim, if available, is during business hours on a hot weekday, before 4 p.m.

Admission to Barton Springs Pool
Barton Springs Pool is open from 5 a.m. until 10 p.m. everyday except for Thursdays, when the pool is closed for cleaning. The price of admission between the hours of 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. is under five dollars for all ages and free for infants.

Must See/Do at Barton Springs Pool
Besides taking a jump from the diving board into the cool water, the grassy hillside within the confines of the pool grounds are perfect for sunbathing or reading. It isn't unusual for a few impromptu yoga classes to pop up either.

Other Places to Visit Near Barton Springs Pool
Zilker Metropolitan Park is a beautiful escape to nature right in the city, spacious enough for a pickup game of soccer or an afternoon with a book and a blanket. Additionally, the Zilker Hillside Theater next to the Barton Springs Pool parking lot offers a variety of music, dance, and theater events for free throughout the spring, summer and fall, including the annual Summer Musical.

Insider Tip for Visitors to Barton Springs Pool
While it is not widely advertised, the pool offers free entrance before 9a.m. and after 9p.m. for swim-at-your-own-risk "Free Swim" hours, when many locals will flock in for a quick dip in the evening. Additionally, the pool spillway forms a shallow water hole outside the gates of the pool proper that is free for use and, while not as large or deep, offers a well appreciated alternative for those who want to cool off on the go or bring their own bottles.

Author's bio: Rob C. is a freelance writer, filmmaker, and breakfast taco enthusiast in Austin, Texas. ​