Austin

Restaurants near the Domain Austin are plentiful! The Domain Northside is the most happening place in North Austin. I love the Domain! It’s convenient to where I work (Big Tex Gym), and I go frequently. It’s the perfect place for food, drinks, shopping and fun.

Whether you’re looking for the best restaurants, craft cocktails, high fashion, or even a new Mac, you can find it all at the Domain. The Domain has residential areas, an outdoor shopping mall, and tons of restaurants. 

You can find a daily happy hour if you just want to grab a drink, or a restaurant for great food, or window shop all the high-end boutiques if you want to walk a little bit after you eat. If you’re on a first date that went great, you can go putt putt at Dirdie Birdie or watch a movie at iPic Theaters.

Eating Well and Eating Healthy

It’s really too much to focus on in one blog post, so let’s just cover the restaurants at The Domain. 

For some background info, I am an personal trainer, exercise coach and I teach people how to lift weights. I am NOT a dietitian and I don’t put people on diets. I am a big believer in eating well most of the time. That way you can splurge, and have room to not obsess over food choices. Additionally, you’ll feel great if you’re eating well, getting all the nutrients you need, and not over indulging. Then when you want to indulge, it’s enjoyable and won’t set you back.

Related: Check out these Austin gift ideas for those on your Christmas list this year.

That said, at most of these restaurants, you an find something healthy. Remember that even on special event meals or splurges, you want to get protein. Look for steak, chicken or other proteins to, add in fruits and/or vegetables, and then add in the splurgy sides if that’s what you’re going for. Bottom line, most restaurants have plenty of healthy menu items.

Restaurants of The Domain

• Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille – Steakhouse
• Flower Child – Health-focused American
• Xian Sushi and Noodle – Sushi and Asian cuisine
• Houndstooth Coffee – Coffee shop
• Thai Kun – Thai street food
• Culinary Dropout – Gastropub
• North Italia – Italian
• Bakery Lorraine – Bakery
• Taverna – Italian
• True Food Kitchen – Mediterranean and health-conscious
• Plank Seafood Provisions – Seafood and oyster bar
• Shake Shack – Burgers
• Gloria’s Latin Cuisine – Salvadorian and Tex-Mex
• Maggiano’s – Italian-American
• Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café – Crêpes
• The Yard Milkshake Bar – Ice cream and milkshakes
• Punch Bowl Social – Bar and entertainment venue
• Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar – Steakhouse and wine bar
• JINYA Ramen Bar – Ramen
• Velvet Taco – Tacos
• Beirut – Lebanese

1. Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille – Known for its upscale, classic steakhouse vibes, Perry’s serves prime cuts and creative dishes in a refined atmosphere. Their famous pork chop is a must-try, along with an extensive wine list for pairing. Perry’s is one of my favorites for special occasions.
2. Flower Child – A health-conscious eatery offering flavorful dishes with options for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets. The menu emphasizes fresh ingredients, perfect for those seeking a nourishing meal in a bright, casual setting.
3. Xian Sushi and Noodle – Specializing in hand-pulled noodles and freshly prepared sushi, Xian offers authentic Asian cuisine with a focus on quality and unique flavors. This spot is great for sushi lovers and noodle enthusiasts alike.
4. Houndstooth Coffee – A specialty coffee shop with a pretty but minimal vibe, Houndstooth is dedicated to serving high-quality brews made with carefully sourced beans. It’s a great place to people watch or work, but be aware there aren’t outlets. If your computer is dead like mine was last time, you might want to go somewhere else. 
5. Thai Kun – A vibrant spot that brings bold, authentic Thai street food flavors to Austin. Known for its spicy dishes and lively atmosphere, it’s a go-to for fans of flavorful, Southeast Asian cuisine.
6. Culinary Dropout – This trendy restaurant serves up classic American fare with a twist, along with creative cocktails. Culinary Dropout includes a bar, restaurant, and sometimes live music, making it perfect for social gatherings. A good bit of it is outside seating too, which is fun for much of the year in Austin. 
7. North Italia – A modern Italian restaurant offering handcrafted pizzas, fresh pasta, and an inviting ambiance. North Italia is perfect for fans of traditional Italian food with a contemporary twist.
8. Bakery Lorraine – A charming artisan bakery that’s loved for its delicate pastries, freshly baked breads, and breakfast items. It’s a delightful spot for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon coffee and pastry break.
9. Taverna – Known for its authentic Italian cuisine, Taverna serves up delicious risotto, pasta, and wood-fired pizzas in a warm, cozy setting. It’s a great spot for a relaxed meal with a taste of Italy.
10. True Food Kitchen – With a menu that focuses on seasonal, health-conscious dishes, True Food Kitchen caters to many kinds of diets, making it ideal for meeting people with different taste buds and preferences. They have a variety of salads, vegetarian dishes, and gluten-free options. The ambiance is casual, making it a good choice for an easy, wholesome meal.
11. Plank Seafood Provisions – A coastal-inspired seafood restaurant and oyster bar, Plank offers a fresh take on seafood classics with a relaxed, beachy atmosphere. Fresh oysters might be the most popular item on the menu. Overall, this feels like a classy seafood grill with great cocktails.
12. Shake Shack – A casual burger joint offering all-natural Angus beef burgers, hot dogs, and creamy frozen custard. This modern roadside stand is the perfect place for a quick, satisfying bite.
13. Gloria’s Latin Cuisine – A lively Tex-Mex and Salvadorian restaurant known for its flavorful dishes and award-winning margaritas. They have amazing tortilla chips & salsa, but the winner is the bean dip. It’s my favorite. If you’re looking for late night fun, don’t miss salsa dancing with a live DJ at Gloria’s every Saturday from 11:00 pm – 2:00 am. 
14. Maggiano’s Little Italy – This Italian-American restaurant serves classic Italian favorites, including pasta, flatbreads, and house-made sauces, in a family-style setting. The menu and ambiance make it ideal for group dining.
15. Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café – Specializing in both sweet and savory crêpes, Sweet Paris offers a charming, Parisian-inspired dining experience. It’s perfect for brunch or a light meal with a touch of elegance.
16. The Yard Milkshake Bar – Known for its extravagant milkshakes and decadent ice cream creations, The Yard is a hit with dessert lovers and those looking for a sweet treat with a playful twist. It has a tiny little dining room, so head to The Yard on a pretty day and take your dessert outside.
17. Punch Bowl Social – This expansive venue offers classic American dishes and cocktails alongside a range of entertainment options, like bowling and karaoke, making it ideal for a fun night out with friends. 
18. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar – A luxurious steakhouse with a reputation for perfectly cooked steaks and an award-winning wine list. It’s an ideal choice for a fine dining experience and delectable dishes.
19. JINYA Ramen Bar – An authentic Japanese ramen bar with a modern touch, JINYA specializes in rich, flavorful ramen bowls and a variety of toppings. It’s a cozy spot for ramen enthusiasts seeking bold flavors.
20. Lone Star Court – The Lone Star Court is a super cute area that has a hotel, pool, fire pit and a bar called The Water Trough. If you’re hungry, grab food from a food truck in their outside dining area too.
21. The Velvet Taco – Located just north of Esperanza Crossing and Rock Rose Ave, The Velvet Taco makes unusually delicious tacos. They open at 11:00 so it’s more of a brunch than breakfast tacos type place, but I recommend trying a few of their unique tacos.
22. Beirut – Beirut, a Lebanese food trailer, is located near the Lawn, on the south side of the Domain. I’ve never been here, but I’ve heard the French fry-stuffed shawarma is a favorite menu item.

Honorable Mentions

Dos Salsas is a delicious Tex Mex restaurant just east of Burnet Road, across from the Domain. Dos Salsas is big and fun and often has a mariachi band. I like their margaritas too. It always feels like a festival in there.

Chi’Lantro is in a little strip just a quarter mile south of Dos Salsas. Chi’Lantro is Korean bbq known for it’s bowls and kim chi fries. I often meet friends here because there are so many options.

Yard House, on the north side of the Domain, has great food, a bar with tons of tvs for watching sports, and is generally a good time. 

Restaurants Near Domain Austin for Your Next Adventure

Next time you’re in the North Austin area, stop into the domain. You’ll find a delicious meal and plenty of stuff to do on Domain Dr. Let me know if I missed your favorite! 

If you’re looking for more outdoorsy stuff in Austin, here are my favorite parks in Austin.

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Work With Me!

If you are looking for a personal trainer in Austin, I’d love to talk with you! If you are not in Austin, Round Rock, or central Texas, let’s talk about online training.

Message me here for a free consult about personal training in Austin, Texas, or here for online personal training, and we’ll discuss your goals, background, equipment availability, schedule, and exercise preferences.

Let’s get you strong and healthy!

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Welcome to Austin in September, where the scorching weather finally breaks, people get out and enjoy, and events are happening! There is live entertainment, music, festivals, all kinds of performing arts, and football! It’s still warm enough for a swim in chilly Barton Springs Pool, but it’s not so hot that you can’t enjoy outside activities. In short, getting the whole family out and about in Austin in September is a great idea!

I’m not meteorologist, but I can google weather data The average temperature decreases to 70-90 degrees, obviously getting cooler toward the end of the month. There are pretty sunny days and so much to enjoy outside. Austin has amazing parks for outdoor recreation and tons of other fun stuff happening. It’s still a good idea to check the weather before you plan outdoor Labor Day weekend and September events in Austin, but likely it’ll be good weather for you. 

Read below to get involved with the music, food, and pop culture scene in Austin in September 2024.

Zilker Relays

Date: September 6, 2024
Location: Zilker Metropolitan Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
The Zilker Relays is a popular community event held annually at Zilker Park, where teams of four runners each complete a 2.5-mile loop, totaling a 10-mile race. The event is known for its inclusive atmosphere, featuring categories for all-men’s, all-women’s, mixed-gender teams, and even family teams. After the race, participants and spectators can enjoy an energetic afterparty with food, drinks, and live music, making it a great way to kick off September in Austin.

Do you need Austin gift ideas? Check out this list and make your shopping easy!

Bat Fest

Date: September 7, 2024
Location: Congress Avenue Bridge, 100 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Bat Fest celebrates one of Austin’s most unique natural spectacles—the flight of 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. The festival, now in its 19th year, features live music from local bands, food and craft vendors, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Musicians this year include Dylan Wheeler, Paul Wall, Ghostland Observatory, and Pecos and the Rooftops. It’s a perfect blend of nature and culture, offering both locals and visitors a chance to experience the best of Austin. Tickets range from $30 general admission to $190 VIP tickets.

Here are the best hiking trails in Austin with water.

Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival

Date: September 8, 2024
Location: The Far Out Lounge & Stage, 8504 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
The Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival is a fiery celebration of all the spicy sauces. As one of the world’s largest hot sauce festivals, it draws over 10,000 attendees each year who come to sample hot sauces, enjoy local food vendors, and listen to live music. The event doubles as a fundraiser for the Central Texas Food Bank, so attendees can feel good about indulging in some serious heat while supporting a good cause. 

Fantastic Fest

Date: September 19-26, 2024
Location: Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar, 1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Fantastic Fest is the largest genre film festival in the United States, dedicated to horror, fantasy, sci-fi, and action movies. Held at the iconic Alamo Drafthouse, this eight-day event is a paradise for film buffs, featuring world premieres, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and themed parties. The festival is known for its eclectic mix of films and has premiered cult favorites like John Wick and Zombieland.

Fall Pecan Street Festival

Date: September 14-15, 2024
Location: Sixth Street, Downtown Austin, TX 78701
The Fall Pecan Street Festival is a bi-annual arts and crafts festival held on the historic Sixth Street. This free, family-friendly event features over 300 arts and crafts vendors, local musicians, and an array of food stalls.

The festival is a great way to experience Austin’s creative spirit and enjoy a weekend of shopping, eating, and entertainment in the heart of the city. You’ll find food trucks from local restaurants, local artists, and all kinds of family fun at the Pecan Street Festival. You can find parking at parking garages, some street parking potentially a few blocks out, and other various locations. 

Austin Museum Day

Date: September 22, 2024
Location: Various museums across Austin
Austin Museum Day is a special event where many of Austin’s museums open their doors to the public for free. Participating museums include the Bullock Texas State History Museum, Blanton Museum of Art, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, among others. This Austin museum partnership for free admission is a fantastic opportunity to explore the city’s cultural and historical institutions without any cost, with many museums offering special exhibits and family-friendly activities. 

Austin Fall Home and Garden Show Date

Date: September 28 & 29
Location: Austin Convention Center 
The Austin Fall Home and Garden Show features a wide variety of exhibits related to home improvement, landscaping, gardening, and interior design. Attendees can explore the latest products and services for home renovation, landscaping, and décor, and can interact with local and national experts in these fields.The event  includes demonstrations, workshops, and seminars led by professionals, providing valuable insights and tips for homeowners. Vendors offer products ranging from outdoor furniture and kitchen appliances to garden tools and eco-friendly home solutions. It’s a great opportunity for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and gardening aficionados to gather ideas and make purchases for their home improvement projects.

Great Weather in Austin in September!

Great weather In general! September in Austin Texas is so fun! Rent some bikes, scooters or even kayaks. Enjoy the lawn at the Long Center or Zilker Park. Try to get tickets to ACL Live at the Moody Center. Check out the Moody Amphitheater’s concert schedule to see touring and Austin musicians. Enjoy wine tasting on the many patios of local restaurants. And if you need a break, go inside to one of the best gyms in Austin.

The month of September in Austin is worth exploring! From wine festivals to the University of Texas football games to exciting events at the best hotels, Austin has something for everyone. If I missed your favorite exciting event of Saturday night situation in Austin, let me know! 

Work With Me!

If you are looking for a personal trainer in Austin, I’d love to talk with you! If you are not in Austin, Round Rock, or central Texas, let’s talk about online training.

Message me here for a free consult about personal training in Austin, Texas, or here for online personal training, and we’ll discuss your goals, background, equipment availability, schedule, and exercise preferences.

Let’s get you strong and healthy!

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Austin hiking trails with water, waterfalls, and gorgeous scenery are all around the city. From the heart of the city at Barton Springs to day trips in the Texas hill country, city nature lovers can find easy hiking trails with water all around Austin, Texas. 

If you’re reading this and feeling shoppy, check out this guide to Austin gift ideas.

The summer months here can be brutal, but we’ve had an exceptionally rainy season this spring. Because of this, many of the creek beds have a higher water level, which is perfect for enjoying nature and cooling off. 

Here are my top recommendations. Easy hikes, tougher ones, and just fun, pretty ones. Many of these make “my favorite trails in Austin” list, but I’ve saved my absolute favorite for last, which won’t come as a surprise to anyone who knows me.

Barton Creek Greenbelt

The Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail is one of the most popular hiking spots in Austin, offering numerous swimming holes like Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls. The Greenbelt covers about 12.68 miles of trails suitable for all kinds of fun outdoorsy stuff, like hiking, biking, and rock climbing. The bike trails range from pretty easy to somewhat challenging, so research the specific part you are going to hike or bike beforehand. 

Trailhead: 2201 Barton Springs Road

Another entrance is 3755-B Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin TX 78704

Some of the most popular spots on the Barton Creek Greenbelt include:

Sculpture Falls

Sculpture Falls, which is one of the most popular swimming holes on the Greenbelt, offers a beautiful spot to swim, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings. Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls are the quintessential Austin hiking trails with water. The easiest access point is from the trailhead at the end of Scottish Woods Trail.

Twin Falls

Twins Falls is on the main trail of the Barton Creek Greenbelt. It has two waterfalls, which you might have been able to figure out by the name. It is a great spot to swim, sunbathe, and even picnic. You can get to Twin Falls by parking on the trailhead at 360. Parking areas are on both sides of the access road, but they fill up fast in pretty weather.

Entrance: 3900 Mopac Frontage Rd., Austin TX 78746

If you’re reading this in the fall, check out what to do in Austin in September.

Gus Fruh Trail

The Gus Fruh Trail passes a swimming hole and rock climbing locations. I’ve actually never been to this one, but I hear it is less crowded than Sculpture Falls and Twin Falls.

Trail head: 2642 Barton Hills Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Campbell’s Hole

Campbell’s Hole is accessed from the Spyglass Drive trailhead, and it is a little quieter and less crowded. It’s not private, obviously, but it’s great for a more secluded experience than Twin Falls.

Entrance: 1500 Spyglass Dr., Austin TX 78704

Seismic Wall

Seismic Wall is known for rock climbing and is great for climbers are various skill levels. It is made of limestone cliffs, so it has some challenging climbs, but great views. I know nothing about rock climbing, but if that’s your interest, I encourage you to look it up for details on the routes. The Gus Fruh trailhead is the access point to reach Seismic Wall.

Hill of Life

The Hill of Life is a gorgeous, steep incline leading down to the water. It is one of the best hiking trails for both a challenge, and beautiful views. At the top of the trail, you get the great views, and at the bottom, you get the water in Barton Creek. Win win! Enter the neighborhood from Scottish Woods Trail.

The Roy and Ann Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

Commonly known as the Roy Butler Trail, the Roy and Ann Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is probably the most popular urban trail in Austin, Texas. Located in the heart of Austin, the train loops around Lady Bird Lake in downtown, providing a scenic and accessible 10-mile loop for hikers, runners, and cyclists. 

Because it is within the city limits, it has many access points and parking lots. Pretty much anywhere you would park to go to Town Lake, you can access the trail from. 

Points of interest along the trail include the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, Barton Springs Pool, Auditorium Shores, and the Stevie Ray Vaughan Memorial. Many of my favorite spots to look at the Austin skyline are along the Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail. 

Zilker Botanical Garden

The Zilker Botanical Garden is a gorgeous, curated 28 acres in the heart of Austin. It is in Zilker Park, but once inside, feels miles away. It features themed walking trails, which are well maintained and accessible. They are on the easy side, and are more like leisure walks than hikes. 

Examples are a prehistoric garden that replicates the times when dinosaurs roamed central Texas, a Japanese garden, rose garden, and butterfly garden. 

Located at 2220 Barton Springs Road.

Had enough of the heat and want to get indoors? Check out the best gyms in Austin, Texas.

Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Located along the shores of Lake Austin in west Austin, Emma Long Metropolitan Park is one of the city’s largest and most popular parks. It covers over 1140 acres, and features hiking trails, picnic spots, barbecue pits, and an open grassy park space for lounging and games, like corn hole and hackeysack. 

It was a great place to watch boats go by and just relax. If you looked down the river a bit, you could see a rope swing, people swimming, and soaking up sun.

I recently did a guided bird watching hike on the Turkey Creek Trail at Emma Long Park, and it was beautiful. It could have been a butterfly garden, for as many butterflies as we saw. The wildflowers were gorgeous in full bloom, and we might have even heard a golden cheeked warbler. 

Emma Long Metropolitan Park is located at 1600 City Park Road, about 10 miles northwest of downtown Austin.

McKinney Falls State Park

This state park is known for its impressive waterfalls, including the Upper Falls and Lower Falls on Onion Creek. The park offers nearly 9 miles of hiking, and mountain biking trails, making it a great spot for both scenic views and refreshing water experiences. McKinney Falls Pkwy. Both Upper and Lower McKinney Falls feature many beautiful waterfalls.

5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744

River Place Nature Trail

This challenging trail includes multiple creek crossings and waterfalls, especially in the Little Fern Trail section. The trail is well-known for its scenic beauty and the 2,763 wooden steps that add a unique element to the hike. The full trail is over 5 miles, so set aside a few hours for this challenging, vertical hike.

8820 Big View Dr, Austin, TX 78730-1529

Bull Creek District Park and Greenbelt

This area features beautiful trails along Bull Creek, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy the flowing creek. The park offers a tranquil hiking experience with several access points to explore.

6701 Lakewood Dr, Austin, TX 78731

St. Edward’s Park

St. Edward’s Park provides a serene hiking experience with creeks and small waterfalls. The Creek and Hill Trail is particularly popular for its scenic views and peaceful environment. Though it’s not as well known, it’s definitely up there on the list of must-do Austin hiking trails with water.

7301 Spicewood Springs Road, Austin, TX 78759

Spicewood Valley Trail

This hidden gem offers an out-and-back hike with creeks, small waterfalls, oak trees, and limestone. It provides a quiet and delightful urban hiking experience.

8043-8585 Scotland Well Dr, Austin, TX 78750

Hikes With Water on the Outskirts of Austin

Krause Springs

Located in Spicewood, about 30 miles west of Austin, Krause Springs is a well-known camping and swimming site. It features 32 springs that feed into both natural and man-made pools. The trails around the springs offer a lush, scenic hike with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water. Krause Springs has tent camping and RV camping sites. I haven’t been to Krause Springs in over 10 years, so if you go, please let me know how it is!

424 County Road 404, Spicewood, TX 78669

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Situated about 23 miles west of Austin, Hamilton Pool Preserve is a stunning natural pool created by a collapsed grotto. The preserve features a short but beautiful hiking trail that leads to the pool, where you can admire the 50-foot waterfall and swim in the emerald waters. It is one of the best waterfalls in Central Texas. Reservations are required to visit the nature preserve.

24300 Hamilton Pool Road, Dripping Springs 78620

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is a fantastic place to hike near the Austin area. Located about 30 miles west of the city, the park offers a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels and provide stunning views of the Pedernales River and surrounding landscapes.

If you’re willing to make a little road trip beyond the outskirts of Austin, and looking for some more challenging trails, Colorado Bend State Park is the perfect place for you. Colorado Bend State Park is west of Austin and north of Johnson City, about an hour and a half drive out.

Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park offers excellent hiking trails that are highly regarded for their scenic beauty and variety. Here are some of the best trails and features of the park.

Gorman Falls

Gorman Falls Trail leads to Gorman Falls, a 70-foot spring-fed waterfall. The 3 mile round trip hike is moderately challenging, with rocky terrain and a steep descent to the falls, but the view of the falls is well worth every bit of the climb! 

Spicewood Springs Trail

Spicewood Springs Trail follows the creek, offering multiple crossings and natural swimming holes along the way. The trail is scenic and relatively moderate, making it a favorite for those looking to enjoy water features and lush surroundings. The Spicewood Springs Trail is about 3 miles round trip.

The River Trail

The River Trail runs along the Colorado River, so you have beautiful views of the river, flora and fauna. This 1.5 mile hike is on the easier side. 

Lemon’s Ridge Pass

Lemon’s Ridge Pass is challenging, and covers a variety of terrain, ridges, and several miles of the park. It is 5.6 miles round trip, and is good for experienced hikers looking to see much of the park.

Cedar Chopper Loop

Cedar Chopper Loop is a longer hike, 7.5 miles round trip, and gives views of many types of landscape as well. It is moderately difficult but very scenic. 

Tie Slide Trail

Tie Slide Trail is 3.3 miles round trip, and is known for its expansive views of the Colorado River. The trail has flat and rocky parts, and is a moderate intensity, yet beautiful, hike. 

Colorado Bend State Park’s trails offer something for everyone, from easy river walks to challenging hikes with rewarding views and beautiful waterfalls. The park’s diverse terrain and natural beauty make it a top destination for hikers in Texas.

Some of these trails are tough. Need to get in hiking shape? Work with a personal trainer in Austin, Texas.

More Hikes* With Water** in Austin

Back to Austin! Here are a few more hikes in Austin, to help you pass some summer weekends. 

Mount Bonnell is a great, short hike. You can’t really get in the water here, but you have a fantastic, elevated view of the river. 

Blunn Creek Greenbelt Trail is also a quick hike in the city. It is 1.5 miles and relatively easy, but still a great escape into nature. 

** These two hikes above don’t really have water you can get in. They don’t technically count as Austin hiking trails with water, but they’re great urban escapes when you need a quick hike.

And finally, my favorite, Barton Springs!

Barton Springs Pool

Barton Springs Pool is no longer a hidden gem in Austin, sadly. Maybe it never was! It is still my favorite, and it’s well worth the trip and the parking and the hassle of sharing it with thousands of other people. 

Barton Springs is a natural springs that feels a natural pool. The water temperature is a consistent 68-70 degree all year round. The water quality is fantastic, and it just feels like magic every time. 

**If you count the short hike from the parking lot, then you can count this as a hike. It has two asterisks because it’s not really a hike. It’s just my favorite water spot in Austin.

My Favorite Austin Hiking Trails With Water

So there you have it! Those are my favorite Austin hiking trails with water, the most popular, and highly rated in both Austin and Central Texas/Hill Country. 

If you’re bored with the rat race of city living, try adding in some hikes and picnicking/camping into your after noon or weekend routines. It’s great physical activity, moderate to higher than moderate cardio, and helps you connect with nature. 

Get on your hiking shoes, pack your water, and let me know what hikes you do! 

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Work With Me!

If you are looking for a personal trainer in Austin, I’d love to talk with you! If you are not in Austin, Round Rock, or central Texas, let’s talk about online training.

Message me here for a free consult about personal training in Austin, Texas, or here for online personal training, and we’ll discuss your goals, background, equipment availability, schedule, and exercise preferences.

Let’s get you strong and healthy!

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  Merry Christmas from Alexander Training

Are you looking for a personal trainer in Round Rock Texas? Boy, are you in luck! I know just the people you need to talk to.  

I am a personal trainer in Round Rock, Texas, and Austin, Texas. I work between two gyms (Big Tex Gym and Iron Forge Gym), and my fellow trainers and I are certified personal trainers who are specialists in many different areas.

If you are looking for strength training, weight loss, group classes, muscle building, or are looking to compete in powerlifting, bodybuilding, or mixed martial arts, one of us is the perfect personal trainer for you. 

My Personal Training Style

I specialize in strength & conditioning with the goal of helping people get stronger, leaner, healthier and just feel better! I have 19 years experience training and I love teaching people how to lift weights. My clients usually work with me in one on one private sessions, but I sometimes train a two or three friends with similar goals together.

Since we usually only have an approximately hour session 1-3 times a week, I also will create a custom training plan for each client and guide them through how to do on their own. It includes the basics of how to lift with different equipment toward their specific goals, the basics of nutrition, and generally living a healthier lifestyle. 

I use an app called Train Heroic for this. It tells you all your numbers: sets, reps, what weight to use. It also includes video and text how-to’s for each exercise or stretch.

You can read more about my philosophy on training, and my background here.

For specific goals like bodybuilding, MMA, competitive Olympic lifting and strongman, I refer clients to trainers who specialize in those disciplines. 

How Can a Personal Trainer Help You?

A skilled and experienced personal trainer can save you time, help you minimize risk of injury, and help you dial in areas you can improve that are hard to see yourself. For example, if your goal is to progress on your fitness journey and just improve your daily life, a few months of training or a handful of personal training sessions can save you months of spinning your wheels, and get you to your goal faster.

Your trainer can track your progress over time, monitoring changes in fitness levels, body composition, and performance. Your trainer can adjust your workout plan as needed to ensure continued progress and help you overcome plateaus.

If you are a professional athlete or elite athlete, the best personal trainer for you will be a strength & conditioning coach who can help you with the large goals and the smallest refinements to reach your peak potential. At this skill level, your trainer should also be highly specialized. 

If you are just learning to exercise, your trainer can help you set a foundation for many years of strong and healthy living.

Sometimes, you just want a trainer to help you through your high intensity sessions, or heavy weight training sessions where you’d like a spotter.

How a Trainer Can Help With Goal Setting

Trainers can also help you with goal setting, so that whether it’s weight loss, muscle gain, improving endurance or building strength, you have a personal fitness plan that will bring you results. Long-term goals of performance or overall health and well being combined with short-term measurable goals will bring you the best results. 

Do you need a goal to get you out of the gym? Get some step ups and lunges, and check out these Austin hikes with water and waterfalls. I have done most of these, and updated this post for summer of 2024.

Other ways a trainer can help include: 

1. Customized Workout Plans: This is a plan written specifically for you; you can’t find it in a google search. Based on your goals, fitness level, and any specific requirements or limitations you may have, a personal trainer can create a personalized workout plan designed to help you reach your objectives efficiently and safely.
2. Proper Technique and Form: One of the most valuable roles of a personal trainer is ensuring that you perform exercises with correct form and technique to maximize effectiveness and reduce the risk of injury. They can provide hands-on guidance, demonstrations, and feedback to help you execute exercises safely and with proper form.
3. Motivation and Accountability: A personal trainer can serve as a source of motivation and accountability, keeping you on track with your fitness routine, providing encouragement during challenging workouts, and helping you stay focused on your goals, even when motivation wanes.
4. Nutritional Guidance: While personal trainers typically aren’t registered dietitians, many can provide general nutrition guidance and recommendations to support your fitness goals. They can offer tips on healthy eating habits, portion control, and meal planning to complement your personal training program.
5. Variety and Adaptability: Personal trainers can introduce variety into your workouts for your specific needs. If a certain lift doesn’t work for you, your trainer can find a great substitute that works the same muscle group or training goal. They can incorporate different exercises, equipment, and training modalities to challenge your body in new ways and prevent workout stagnation.
6. Education and Empowerment: Beyond just providing workouts, a good personal trainer will also educate you about exercise principles, proper nutrition, and healthy lifestyle habits, empowering you to make informed choices and maintain your fitness progress independently over the long term. 

Check out my favorite fitness things in the North Austin area.

What Should I Look for in a Personal Trainer?

When searching for a qualified personal trainer, consider the following factors: education, years of experience, certification, investment into their own business, professionalism and reviews. 

Education and Experience

I recommend finding a trainer that has a degree in kinesiology or exercise science. It will help you so much if your trainer has taken anatomy, physiology, and understands the interplay between muscle groups, nutrition, the nervous system, etc. Most average personal trainers do not have a degree. This doesn’t mean a trainer can’t be a good trainer without a degree, but I do recommend asking about your potential trainer’s background and experience.

You can also ask about their experience and expertise in working with clients who have goals similar to yours. Ask about their background, specialties, and any additional certifications or training they may have in areas such as nutrition, injury rehabilitation, or specific exercise modalities.

Certification

Most certifications aren’t all that tough, so they aren’t the end-all be all goal, but trainers should have a certification. I recommend trainers who have a certification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) or the American Council on Exercise (ACE). NASM (the National Academy of Sports Medicine) is a staggeringly easy cert, and the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) advertises getting their cert in 4 weeks online. Take from that what you will. 

Professionalism and Communication Style

While the job of personal training can be somewhat casual, your trainer should be professional and communicate well. Choose a personal trainer who conducts themselves professionally, respects your boundaries, and adheres to ethical standards. They should prioritize your safety, well-being, and confidentiality throughout your training sessions.

Look for a trainer who invests in his or her own business. Your trainer should have tools and equipment to give you the best experience. I invest in a very secure HIPAA compliant scheduling and payment software, a training app that my clients love, two gyms at which I pay rent, and equipment as I need it. Be wary of trainers who aren’t willing to spend any money on their own business.

A good personal trainer should be able to effectively communicate with you and motivate you to achieve your fitness goals. Look for someone who listens to your needs, communicates clearly, and provides constructive feedback and encouragement.

Continued Education

Finally, look for a personal trainer who is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest research, trends, and best practices in the fitness industry. They should demonstrate a willingness to pursue continued education and professional development to enhance their knowledge and skills.

How To Find a Personal Trainer in Round Rock, Texas

Hopefully that helped you decide how a trainer can specifically help you and your goals. Now, as far as how to find a personal trainer in Round Rock, Texas, you can try the following methods:

1. You can message me. We can see if we are a match to work together toward your goals. If I know of a trainer who is better suited for you, I will introduce you.
2. Online Search: Use search engines like Google to search for personal trainers in Round Rock. You can use search terms like “personal trainer Round Rock Texas” or “fitness trainer Round Rock” to find relevant results. If you are in Cedar Park, Plugerville or any other nearby areas, of course substitute the appropriate search terms.
3. Fitness Directories: Yelp and Google reviews can help you find personal trainers in your area. You can search by location and read reviews from other clients.
4. Gyms and Fitness Centers: Many gyms and fitness centers in Round Rock offer personal training services. I would recommend contacting the Clay Madsen Recreation Center or Hutto Family YMCA to inquire about their personal training programs. If those don’t work, you can contact local gyms like 24 Hour Fitness or Gold’s Gym. Local rec centers also sometimes youth development or high school training programs. 
5. Social Media: Check social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Many personal trainers and fitness professionals promote their services on these platforms. You can search for hashtags like #RoundRockPersonalTrainer or #RoundRockFitness to find relevant posts.
6. Ask for Recommendations: Ask friends, family members, or colleagues who live in Round Rock if they have any recommendations for personal trainers. 
7. Local Fitness Events or Classes: Attend local fitness events or classes in Round Rock and network with other participants or instructors. They may be able to recommend a personal trainer or provide information about available services in the area. Search “Round Rock Boot Camp” or even “Austin boot camps” to see if there are group classes or events near you. 

How to Find the Best Online Personal Trainer

Are you looking for an online personal trainer? This is a great idea if your schedule or traffic or location is prohibitive. Read here for a comprehensive guide on how to find the best online personal trainer.

​Take the First Step

When you have found a trainer you are interested in working with, reach out to see if they are able to do a consult and take on a new client. Remember you are interviewing your trainer as much as they are interviewing you, to see if you are mutually a good fit to work together. See if you like their communication habits, scheduling style, and training philosophy. 

Remember, a trainer can help you for as long as you enjoy the partnership. Whether you stay working together for years or just months, it’s a great learning experience, you can get in better shape, and​ you can take steps toward better physical health, mental health, and a better life. 

If you’d like to do a free consult and talk more about how we could work together, please message me here: contact Kathryn Alexander. I’d love to talk to you!

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Exciting news for Austin and Round Rock area gym enthusiasts: Iron Forge Gym has opened in Round Rock, Texas!

Iron Forge Gym is the collaboration between Rob Impastato & Esther Chou of Big Tex Gym (my favorite gym and favorite gym owners ) and streamers Knut, Mizkif and WakeWilder. 

Alexander Training (Personal Training) at Iron Forge Gym

I am so happy to announce that I will be taking new clients at Iron Forge Gym! If you are looking for a personal trainer in Round Rock, this is the place for you. I would love to talk to you about your goals and help you make a customized plan.

If you’d like to learn more about me, read about my philosophy here. The gist of it is, I want to help you be as strong and capable and prepared for life as you can be.

Don’t worry; I’ll still be personal training in Austin at Big Tex Gym, too!

Each gym is pretty great, and each has a little different vibe. Both are real, solid training and both have great equipment and facilities.

Check out all your personal training options here.

Please feel free to contact me here about training if you’d like to talk about training at Iron Forge Gym, Big Tex Gym, or online training at your own facility.

Psst, Big Tex made the list of best gyms in Austin.

Strongman Training at Iron Forge Gym

Iron Forge Gym has an impressive strongman training area, complete with turf for sled work, yoke walks, sandbags, and stone medleys. There are loading platforms, logs, circus dumbbells, and the stones from around 75 to 400 pounds will soon live there too. 

The ceiling is high enough for sandbag throws for competitors to practice height over bar throws.

The Gym Floor

The rest of the gym has a dedicated cardio area with mats and medicine balls for floor work and stretching. 

The main gym floor has platforms, brand new barbells with great knurling (I approve), and plate loaded machines. 

A secondary gym floor has an impressive cable system, racks free weights, and some accessory machines including pull-up stations, 45 degree back extensions and a multi-directional Smith machine. Super rare, and I’ll write a blog post about that machine soon. 

The dumbbells run up to over 120 pounds, and there are barbells in fixed weights too. This is a great place for trainers and their clients. If you’re looking at personal training in Round Rock, Texas, this is where I suggest you start.

And another reason for stopping in: if you go to the gym everyday, sometimes it’s nice to have two gym memberships for some variety.

The Rest of the Gym

The gym is now home to accomplished fighting, muay thai, and mixed martial arts coaches. The first floor of the gym has a large open area for fighting classes. They host a full schedule of classes, which you can get a membership for. 

I love walking in to a great mma class. The fighters are so dedicated and hard working, and I love sharing space with them. 

Iron Forge also has a beautiful studio with wood floors and mirrors. There is a separate posing room as well, with immaculate lighting. 

The Lagniappe

Iron Forge is still building out all the extras, but it is rumored there will be a smoothie bar, lounge, cold plunge, infrared saunas, and tanning beds. 

There are men’s and women’s locker rooms that have showers, lockers, and space, which is at a premium in gyms around Austin. Every time I go in the women’s locker room at Iron Forge, it gets cuter. Haven’t been in the men’s in a few weeks and I don’t anticipate going in there again, so I’ll ask my male clients for updates for you. 

The gym is in a shopping center that has plenty of parking (hallelujah!), restaurants, boutiques, and Flix Brewhouse. 

Come Visit Iron Forge Gym in Round Rock, Texas!

Come check it out! Let me know if you’d like to do a consult or a tour. I love helping people get started, so I welcome you to reach out to me. 

And stop by the best new gym in Round Rock, Texas: Iron Forge Gym!

If you’re into local Austin stuff, check out the best parks in Austin, and my favorite fitness things to do in North Austin.

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• 
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• 
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• 
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