Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
Discover a tranquil oasis in Austin with free-roaming peacocks, historic gardens, and scenic nature trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & see active wildlife
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
Best Time
Beat the heat & see active wildlife

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a tranquil oasis in Austin with free-roaming peacocks, historic gardens, and scenic nature trails.
"It's so beautiful and peaceful. I loved seeing the peacocks so close."
🎯 Peacock Sightings
Peacocks are usually around, but sightings can vary. Check recent posts for updates!
🗺️ Trail Map Photos
Take pics of trail maps; they can be loose. Enjoy the lake views!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Free-Roaming Peacocks
Courtyard and grounds
Majestic peacocks strut and display their vibrant feathers, creating a unique and memorable wildlife encounter.

Historic Cottage and Gardens
Mayfield-Gutsch Estate
Explore serene gardens, lily ponds, and a charming historic cottage, offering a peaceful escape.

Scenic Nature Trails
Nature Preserve
Wander through 21 acres of lush greenery, shaded by ancient oaks, with trails leading to lake views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Peacock Spotting Tips
Navigating the Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Peacock Sightings
Peacocks are usually around, but sightings can vary. Check recent posts for updates!
🗺️ Trail Map Photos
Take pics of trail maps; they can be loose. Enjoy the lake views!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Restrooms are maintained, but water fountains are scarce.
🚗 Free Parking
Parking is free and usually available. Street parking is an option if the lot is full.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Peacock Sightings
Peacocks are usually around, but sightings can vary. Check recent posts for updates!
🗺️ Trail Map Photos
Take pics of trail maps; they can be loose. Enjoy the lake views!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Restrooms are maintained, but water fountains are scarce.
🚗 Free Parking
Parking is free and usually available. Street parking is an option if the lot is full.
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of peacocks, gardens, and lake vistas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mayfield Park is a beloved free nature preserve in Austin, praised for its beautiful gardens, historic charm, and the unique experience of seeing free-roaming peacocks. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and scenic trails, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers. Some find the trail navigation a bit loose, and peacock sightings can vary seasonally.
"Mayfield Park is a great nature preserve. They have peacocks that roam freely in the courtyard. Don’t get too close to them, but they’re beautiful to see from a distance. One was singing to us early this morning when we saw them. It’s mostly a good nature preserve for young children as the trails tend to be on the shorter side, but the views of the river are interesting. You can walk up to Mount Bonnell and see some of the breathtaking view of the river, too. It would provide a much longer hiking experience."
Boris Velinov
"If you’re looking for a unique hiking experience, this is the one for you. It’s a shorter hike and you can stop and see the peacocks! The peacock area is super cool and relaxing. Good memory maker!"
Brooke Spencer
"This was definitely worth visiting. We had a great time. It's so beautiful and peaceful. I loved seeing the peacocks so close. They were just chilling in the shade. We saw about 6 peacocks and several cute lizards. There were also snapping turtles in the lily ponds that poked their little heads out of the water. We will come back when we visit Austin again."
Lindsay Garcia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mayfield Park is located at 3505 W. 35th Street, Austin, TX 78703. It's situated in West Austin. While public transport options might be limited, driving is a common way to access the park. Parking is free and generally available, with street parking as a backup.
The park is a bit of a hidden gem in West Austin. While the main entrance to the garden area is clearly marked with a white door, the trails can be less clearly defined. Taking photos of trail maps is recommended.
Parking is free and usually not filled out. Visiting early morning or late evening can help you secure a spot more easily, especially on weekends.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option to reach Mayfield Park. The address is 3505 W. 35th Street, Austin, TX 78703.
Mayfield Park is close to other Austin attractions. Some visitors combine a trip to Mayfield Park with a visit to Laguna Gloria or a stroll up to Mount Bonnell for breathtaking lake views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, it's free to visit Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve! You can enjoy the peacocks, gardens, and trails without any admission cost.
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve is open daily from 5 AM to 10 PM, offering ample time to explore its grounds.
No advance booking is required for Mayfield Park. It's a public park, and you can visit anytime during its operating hours.
As a public park, there are generally no specific entry restrictions beyond the operating hours. However, it's always good practice to respect the natural environment and wildlife.
While the historic cottage is part of the estate, access inside may be limited or by special arrangement. The main attraction is the grounds, gardens, and peacocks.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Mayfield Park offers a unique experience with free-roaming peacocks, beautiful historic gardens, tranquil lily ponds with turtles, and scenic nature trails. It's a great spot for relaxation and wildlife observation.
While peacocks are a common sight, their presence can vary. Some visitors see them frequently, while others report fewer sightings, especially during nesting seasons. It's best to check recent visitor updates.
The trails can be a bit loose and may split. It's recommended to take photos of trail maps and be prepared to explore. While generally short, they offer lovely views of the lake.
Yes, Mayfield Park is considered very suitable for children. They often enjoy following the peacocks, playing in the gardens, and observing the wildlife in the ponds. The trails are also generally short and manageable.
Restrooms are actively maintained, but water fountains are not available. Portable restrooms are also on-site. It's advised to bring your own water.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas with free-roaming peacocks, the historic cottage, the lily ponds with turtles, and the scenic lake views from the trails offer fantastic photography opportunities.
While you can see the peacocks up close, it's advised not to get too close to them. Admire their beauty from a respectful distance to ensure their comfort and safety.
Absolutely! With its diverse wildlife, lush gardens, and scenic vistas, Mayfield Park is an excellent location for nature photography, capturing everything from vibrant peacocks to serene landscapes.
Generally, there are no specific photography restrictions for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
Early morning or late evening often provides softer lighting, which is ideal for photography. It also coincides with times when wildlife, including peacocks, might be more active.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no concessions on-site. The park's free admission makes it an excellent budget-friendly outing for families looking for a fun and educational experience in nature. Remember to keep an eye on the little ones and respect the wildlife.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with a walk around the gardens, a leisurely stroll on the trails, and of course, peacock spotting. It's a great place to reflect, read a book, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere before heading to your next Austin adventure.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Peacocks of Mayfield Park
Observing the peacocks is a highlight for many, offering a unique wildlife encounter right within the city. Visitors often describe the experience as magical and memorable, with the birds adding a touch of exotic beauty to the serene park setting. It's a fantastic opportunity for photography, but remember to admire them from a respectful distance to ensure their well-being.
For those hoping to catch a glimpse of these stunning creatures, checking recent visitor posts on social media or Reddit can provide clues about current sightings. Despite occasional reports of fewer sightings during certain seasons, the chance to see these birds in their natural habitat remains a captivating aspect of a visit to Mayfield Park.
Exploring the Historic Mayfield-Gutsch Estate
Visitors can wander through these picturesque gardens, enjoying the lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and the gentle sounds of nature. The estate's architecture and landscaping evoke a sense of timeless beauty, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or quiet contemplation. The combination of historical charm and natural beauty makes the estate a significant part of the Mayfield Park experience.
While the cottage itself may have limited public access, its presence contributes to the overall ambiance of the estate. The grounds are a testament to the estate's rich history and its transformation into a public nature preserve, offering a glimpse into Austin's past while providing a beautiful natural space for the present.
Navigating the Nature Trails
However, it's important to note that the trail system can be somewhat loosely marked, with paths sometimes splitting. Visitors are advised to take photos of trail maps and be prepared for a bit of exploration to find their way. Despite this, the trails are generally short and not overly challenging, ensuring that most visitors can navigate them without getting truly lost.
The trails provide opportunities to enjoy the natural landscape and can lead to scenic views of the lake. They offer a different perspective of the park compared to the formal gardens, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of adventure and a deeper connection with nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit