Top 10 adventure dates in ATX: part 1
First dates. They can make or break you in the world of dating. Whether you've loved every date you've been on, or had a few bad bolts in the bunch, rest assured that you are now in good hands! Adventure Dates in ATX is a series to equip you to impress your lucky date, while getting outdoors and utilizing our great city of Austin.
If you’re feeling spontaneous, close your eyes and pick a number between 1 and 5!
1. Town Lake Paddle/Bike Ride + Roo Hang at Zilker
You always pass these people when driving across the bridge, and now you get to be one of them. Accept the SUP Challenge and give paddle boarding a try - it is well worth feeling like a slight tourist.
Afterwards, Zilker Park gives plenty of shade for you to hang up your Roo (for two) to get some relaxation in.
Getting there: Route to wherever your kayaking/SUP rental is along the river and find some street parking. Post-river, our favorite spot at Zilker is in a shaded grove – route to 2448 Andrew Zilker Rd, Austin, TX 78746. Follow the road to a parking lot leading to a field with towering trees perfect for hammocking and a gnarly view of the skyline.
Zilker: 2448 Andrew Zilker Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Hint: Find a Groupon for kayaking/SUP for 2 to make it cheaper!
2. 360 Lookout Picnic
Want a vista for the sunset but not the crowds at Mt. Bonnell? Grab some grub and head to Pennybacker bridge! We recommend Peached Tortilla for lunch and Via 313 Pizzeria for dinner (post 5pm).
Getting there: Often called “360 Lookout” or “the Crow’s Nest,” find this lookout by typing in “Austin 360 Bridge Overlook” into your Google Maps. Come in from the NORTH side of 360 (heading southbound) and park on the gravel on your right side directly after you pass Courtyard Dr and before you hit the river.
360 Lookout: Plaza on the Lake, Austin, TX 78730
Hint: Walk a little farther along the trail at 360 Lookout to get to a more secluded spot for the sunset!
3. Greenbelt Hike/Roo Hang + Patrizi's
If you’re itching to get on the trail but want to stay in Austin, the Greenbelt is in your backyard. Grab your Roo, your boo, and a good book and walk along the trail until you can see the river – then throw your hammock up!
5. Brunch/Dinner at Easy Tiger + Riverwalk along Waller Creek
A bakery, café, beer garden, and now whiskey bar - this place is the ultimate one stop shop. On the corner of I-35 and 6th, Easy Tiger boasts hearty German food, ping pong tables, and a backyard with towering oaks and riverside seating. Enjoy the breeze outside whilst munching on a loaded pretzel and drinking some craft brews. Their bread is baked in-house and famous all around Austin! Bonus: some Antonelli’s if you’re feeling cheesy.
Afterwards, take a stroll following Waller Creek, the river runs through the historic Red River music district, the backyard of Easy Tiger, Palm Park, and Rainey Street.
Getting there: Route to Easy Tiger on your maps app – parking will be along the street or in the parking lot under I35!
Easy Tiger: 709 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701
Hint: Come at happy hour 4-7pm on weekdays and attend some of their special calendar events! Plus, in November, Waller Creek hosts an annual light show over the river that feels like walking through an outdoors version of The Met – just artsy enough to feel cultured, but still a cool place to show your date.
But wait. There's more.
Check out Part II of "Top 10 Adventure Dates in ATX" here.