Waller Creek Boathouse
Your gateway to Lady Bird Lake, offering kayak rentals, retro boats, and access to scenic trails with stunning Austin skyline views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for leisurely rentals
Waller Creek Boathouse
Best Time
Perfect for leisurely rentals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Your gateway to Lady Bird Lake, offering kayak rentals, retro boats, and access to scenic trails with stunning Austin skyline views.
"Great spot for kayaking! An excellent way to spend an afternoon in Austin."
Book Rentals in Advance
Especially for weekends or special events, booking your kayak or paddleboard ahead ensures availability.
Check Waller Creek Show Dates
This popular event has specific dates each year; confirm them to catch the light installations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kayaking on Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake
Glide across the water, enjoying skyline views and a peaceful escape in the heart of downtown Austin.
Retro Boat Rentals
Waller Creek Boathouse
Cruise in vintage style! These unique fiberglass boats offer a fun, throwback experience on the lake.
Waller Creek Show
Waller Creek
An annual illuminated art exhibition that transforms the creek into a magical nighttime wonderland.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Waller Creek
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Rentals in Advance
Especially for weekends or special events, booking your kayak or paddleboard ahead ensures availability.
Check Waller Creek Show Dates
This popular event has specific dates each year; confirm them to catch the light installations. +1
Bring Your Camera!
Capture stunning skyline views and unique art installations. The staff might even snap some photos for you!
Hydrate and Protect
Sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are a must for a comfortable day on the lake.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Rentals in Advance
Especially for weekends or special events, booking your kayak or paddleboard ahead ensures availability.
Check Waller Creek Show Dates
This popular event has specific dates each year; confirm them to catch the light installations. +1
Bring Your Camera!
Capture stunning skyline views and unique art installations. The staff might even snap some photos for you!
Hydrate and Protect
Sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are a must for a comfortable day on the lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Waller Creek Boathouse for its excellent location and variety of water activities, particularly kayaking and the unique retro boat rentals. The stunning skyline views and proximity to the Ann and Roy Butler Trail are major draws. Some mention that parking can be a challenge during peak times, and the experience is best enjoyed when booked in advance.
"Had a blast for our Mother's Day excursion.
Angel sent us out and Jensen guided us in. They were both very helpful and friendly. Angel took lots of pictures for us before sending us off.
Thank you!"
Luana Owens
"Great food and beautiful scenery! This was our first time to Austin and this was a highly recommended place. It’s a great stop before hitting a sweet park in the city."
Mathew Riley
"Great spot for kayaking! Thanks for hosting us for the Colorado River cleanup community service today!"
Adam Rahman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Waller Creek Boathouse is conveniently located downtown, accessible by car, ride-sharing, or public transport. Parking can be found nearby, though it may be limited during peak times.
Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity. Consider arriving early or using ride-sharing to avoid parking hassles.
Several bus routes serve the downtown area near the boathouse. Check the Capital Metro website for the most up-to-date route information.
Absolutely! The boathouse is a great starting point for exploring the Ann and Roy Butler Trail, which runs along Lady Bird Lake.
For the Waller Creek Show, consider ride-sharing or public transport as parking will be extremely limited due to crowds. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the boathouse area and general access to Lady Bird Lake are typically free. However, specific events like the Waller Creek Show may require tickets. +1
Rental prices vary depending on the duration and type of watercraft. Expect reasonable rates for an afternoon on the lake.
Historically, there have been specific free admission days for the Waller Creek Show. Always check the official event schedule for details.
While walk-ins are sometimes possible, booking your rental in advance is highly recommended, especially during busy periods.
Rental hours typically align with daylight, often starting in the morning and ending before sunset. Check with the specific rental provider for exact times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and unique retro boats. The area also provides access to the Ann and Roy Butler Trail for walking and biking.
Yes, it's a great spot for families. Kids can enjoy kayaking, and the Waller Creek Show is an all-ages event. +1
The Waller Creek area is known for its public art installations, especially during the annual Waller Creek Show.
Restroom facilities are generally available at the boathouse and along the trail.
Dogs are typically allowed on the Ann and Roy Butler Trail but may not be permitted on all rental watercraft. Check specific rental policies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the boathouse itself might not have extensive dining, the surrounding downtown Austin area offers numerous restaurants and food trucks.
Picnics are generally welcome in the park areas around Lady Bird Lake. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The area is close to many popular Austin dining spots, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Explore the downtown district for diverse options.
Convenience stores and cafes are scattered throughout the downtown area, offering quick options for snacks and beverages.
Alcohol regulations on Lady Bird Lake can be strict. It's best to check current city ordinances or inquire with the rental provider.
📸 📸 Photography
The Austin skyline from the water, the unique retro boats, and the illuminated art during the Waller Creek Show offer fantastic photo ops.
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) provides beautiful lighting for skyline shots. The Waller Creek Show is specifically designed for nighttime photography.
Yes, but be cautious with your equipment. Waterproof phone cases or bags are highly recommended.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban parks and over waterways. Check local regulations before flying a drone.
People love shots of the skyline from the water, the colorful retro boats, and the magical light displays of the Waller Creek Show.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1The Waller Creek Show is also a highly recommended event for families, as it's an all-ages spectacle of lights and art that captivates younger audiences.
Remember to pack snacks, drinks, and sun protection for a comfortable family outing.💑 Couples & Dates
The Retro Boat Rentals ATX provide a quirky and romantic way to cruise the water, making for a unique and fun date experience.+1If visiting during the fall, the Waller Creek Show offers a magical and intimate setting for a date night, with illuminated art installations creating a romantic ambiance.
💰 Budget Travelers
Many visitors find that simply enjoying the views of the Austin skyline from the trail or the lake shores is a rewarding experience without any cost.While boat rentals do have a fee, they are often reasonably priced for the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lady Bird Lake by Water
+1 These vintage fiberglass boats offer a fun, nostalgic way to experience the water. Paddling on the lake provides a serene escape from the city bustle, with stunning views of the Austin skyline. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for outdoor recreation.Many visitors rave about the friendly and helpful staff at the boathouse, who often offer tips and even take photos for guests before they set off.
Beyond rentals, the lake is also a hub for community events like river cleanups, showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship among Austin residents.
The Enchanting Waller Creek Show
While the event is ticketed, there have been instances of free admission nights in the past, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Planning your visit for the Waller Creek Show is crucial. Due to its popularity, expect crowds, especially on weekend evenings. Checking the official event dates and times well in advance is essential, as the show only runs for a limited period each year.
Ann and Roy Butler Trail: A Scenic Path
The Waller Creek Boathouse is a convenient access point to this popular trail, allowing visitors to easily transition from water activities to land exploration.This well-maintained trail is perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling, providing stunning views of the Lady Bird Lake and the downtown Austin skyline.
It's a favorite spot for locals to get their daily exercise and enjoy the outdoors. The trail is largely shaded in parts, offering some respite from the sun, but it's always wise to carry water and wear appropriate gear.Along the trail, you'll encounter various parks and access points, making it easy to customize your route. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer endurance challenge, the Ann and Roy Butler Trail offers a rewarding experience for all fitness levels. It’s a key component of Austin’s green infrastructure, connecting various parts of the city and providing recreational opportunities for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit