The Barton Springs Pool claims three acres of Zilker Park's sprawling 358 acres, and it's space well used. The pool has been around for decades—it's even where Robert Redford learned to swim on a family vacation. He was only five years old. The natural pool continues to welcome guests today who want to go for a dip in its warm waters.
Natural underground springs feed the large, long pool, so its temperature rarely goes below 70 degrees. With lifeguards on watch during the summer months, it's a safe spot to practice your backstroke or just go wading in the sparkling waters. From a few inches deep to 18 feet deep, the pool has areas that are appropriate for both new swimmers and seasoned swimmers. Bring along a towel to stretch out on the soft grass, where you can take sunbathing breaks in between laps.