Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

4801 La Crosse Ave., Austin, TX 78739

Hours

Open daily* 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Garden entry ends at 2 p.m.

*Check seasonal hours on their website

Holiday Closures

Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve & Christmas Day, New Year's Eve & New Year's Day

Cost

Here are the current costs of visiting the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center:

Adults (18-64) Mon-Thurs $15. Fri-Sun $18
Seniors (65+) & Military w/ID: Mon-Thurs $12. Fri-Sun $15
Youth (3-17 years): Mon-Thurs $9. Fri-Sun $12
Children 2 and under: Free

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.

512-232-0100

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About

Founded in 1982 by former First Lady "Lady Bird" Johnson and actress Helen Hayes, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center showcases native Texas wildflowers.

What started as a passion project to conserve the rich floral heritage of Texas blossomed into a research institution and public botanical garden. Over the years, it has grown into an extensive 284-acre campus that celebrates the beauty of Texas wildflowers while focusing on sustainability and conservation.

Such dedication has made the arboretum a botanical research leader, an environmental advocate, and a must-visit Austin destination. And with its central location, it's easy to combine a visit with another must-do activity observing the Austin Bats at South Congress Bridge.

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center offers an immersive experience through various thematic gardens, walking trails, and the Mollie Steves Zachry Texas Arboretum. For these reasons, add it to your Austin itinerary for an experience you'll treasure forever.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Fun Facts & Cool Features

Two features at the center are particularly noteworthy. First is the center's innovative Luci and Ian Family Garden, designed to be a sustainability and environmental education model. It allows children to explore and learn about nature in a way that teaches them the importance of conserving natural resources.

Another remarkable feature is the arboretum's role in research and conservation. It leads the way in ecological design and native plant restoration, contributing to restoring Texas landscapes. For instance, the center's work in developing "Project Milkweed" has played a crucial role in conserving monarch butterfly habitats.

With its beautiful setting and contemporary indoor facility, the facility is idyllic for weddings, corporate, non-profit, and other special events. It is also close to top restaurants like Eberly, making it convenient to grab a delicious meal afterward.

Visiting the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center offers a unique blend of education, inspiration, and natural beauty. It's a beacon of conservation and sustainable design, making it a place of interest for nature lovers and anyone looking to connect with the environment on a deeper level.

Whether you're a local or planning things to do on an Austin vacation, the Wildflower Center promises an enriching and enlightening experience in the heart of Texas.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Austin to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center:

Start on Congress Avenue, heading south towards S 1st Street.
Merge onto TX-1 Loop S via the ramp to Loop 1/Capital of TX Hwy.
Continue on TX-1 Loop S for approximately 8 miles.
Take the exit toward La Crosse Ave from TX-45 Toll W/TX-1 Loop S.
Address: 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739

Local Tips

Visit during spring or fall when flowers are at their most spectacular bloom.
Check the center's calendar for occasional free admission days.
Visit weekdays for a more serene visit.
Check the website for events held throughout the year.
Texas heat can be intense. Bring a water bottle to refill at the various stations around the center.

Location

4801 La Crosse Ave., Austin, TX 78739

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good one-day itinerary in Austin?

If you find yourself with just one day to explore Austin, let me guide you through an itinerary that encapsulates the heart and soul of this vibrant city. Begin your day by awakening your taste buds with Austin’s renowned breakfast tacos and BBQ, a culinary experience that has earned the city national acclaim. According to Eater Austin, these local specialties are a “must-try” for anyone visiting.

Once you’re fueled up, immerse yourself in the unique charm of the Rainey Street Historic District. This neighborhood, dotted with converted bungalow houses that now serve as trendy bars and restaurants, offers a distinctive dining and drinking experience. As Time Out magazine puts it, Rainey Street is a “hip strip of unique watering holes” that embodies Austin’s laid-back vibe.

Music is the heartbeat of Austin, so make sure you catch a live show at one of the city’s legendary venues like the Continental Club or Antone’s. According to Visit Austin, these venues are among the “top places to hear live music.”

And if you’re craving outdoor fun, Lady Bird Lake and the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail offer breathtaking views of the downtown skyline. According to the Austin Parks Foundation, this trail is one of the “most used trails in Austin” with over 1.5 million visits annually.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Zilker Botanical Garden or the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum. And for those craving panoramic views, Mount Bonnell promises a sight that’s been named one of Austin’s “best photo ops” by Culture Trip.

As evening falls, head to the bat bridge to witness the spectacle of thousands of bats taking flight – a unique Austin experience that Lonely Planet describes as “mesmerizing.”

South Congress Avenue, or SoCo, is your next destination. With its eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, vintage shops, and food trucks, it encapsulates Austin’s diverse culture. The Austin Chronicle calls SoCo a “vibrant hub of unique shopping, dining, and nightlife.”

Finally, end your day by savoring a meal at one of the city’s many acclaimed restaurants, offering a range of diverse culinary delights that reflect Austin’s vibrant food scene. According to Food & Wine, Austin boasts some of the “best food in America.”

In a nutshell, this one-day itinerary offers a snapshot of what makes Austin so special. So why wait? Start planning your Austin adventure today!

What is the weather like in Austin, TX?

Discover Austin, Texas, where its distinctive climate contributes to its rising popularity among global travelers.

Enjoy the vibrant summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F (32°C), offering the perfect excuse to dive into Austin’s numerous natural swimming spots or relax under the shade of a live oak.

Winter in Austin brings mild weather, eliminating the need for heavy coats. Occasional cool fronts make it an excellent time to enjoy the city’s lively music scene and indulge in its famous BBQ comfortably.

For the ultimate Austin experience, consider visiting during spring or fall. These seasons provide the most pleasant weather, ideal for exploring music festivals, hiking scenic trails, or dining outdoors. Spring and fall in Austin are unmatched for experiencing the city’s dynamic culture and natural beauty!

What are the biggest main events in Austin?

With a year-round calendar packed with world-class events, Austin is a magnet for visitors from around the globe! Here’s a run-down of some of our biggest and most exciting events:

First up, there’s South by Southwest (SXSW), one of the biggest festivals on the planet. Each March, SXSW rolls into town, bringing with it a whirlwind of film, music, and interactive media. It’s not just a festival – it’s an experience. Expect a week-long extravaganza of conferences, screenings, performances, and networking opportunities that will leave you inspired and entertained.

Next, we have the Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival. Held over two weekends in October, ACL transforms Zilker Park into a music lover’s paradise. With a diverse lineup featuring artists from every genre imaginable, there’s something for everyone. But it’s not just about the music—the festival also offers delicious food, mesmerizing art, and other attractions that make it a must-visit event.

For adrenaline seekers, the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix is an unmissable spectacle. Every October, Austin hosts this prestigious international racing event at the state-of-the-art Circuit of the Americas (COTA), drawing motorsport fans from around the world.

Foodies, we haven’t forgotten about you. The Austin Food + Wine Festival is a culinary celebration like no other. Taking place in November, the festival showcases the best of Austin’s food scene and beyond, with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and seminars by acclaimed chefs and wine experts.

Finally, for film enthusiasts, the Austin Film Festival (AFF) is a highlight of the cultural calendar. Known for its focus on screenwriting and storytelling, AFF hosts film screenings, panel discussions, and workshops with industry professionals every October.

These events are more than just a good time—they’re a testament to Austin’s vibrant culture, diverse attractions, and welcoming spirit. So why wait? Start planning your Austin adventure today and experience the excitement for yourself. Trust us, you won’t want to miss a moment. Book your visit now!