Austin, TX

Austin has been home and the center of my medical practice for over two decades. Over the years, I’ve seen the city grow into a vibrant hub of innovation, creativity, and wellness.

Today, Austin stands out as one of the most health-conscious cities in the country, offering countless opportunities for clean eating, movement, connection with nature, and intentional living.

Whether you’re visiting for a few days or are a local looking to recharge, Austin is full of experiences that support both physical and emotional well-being.

Functional medicine focuses on the whole-body picture, the internal system, and the external environment. Both have a synergistic relationship with each other. How you spend your time and what you surround yourself with can deeply influence your health and well-being.

Choosing experiences that nourish your body and enrich your mind are powerful ways to support lasting vitality.

Of the many years I’ve had to explore much of what Austin has to offer, I’ve discovered places and practices that align beautifully with a functional medicine approach to health.

This guide highlights my personal favorites– the spaces that foster healing, enhance vitality, and encourage a deeper connection to your environment.

This list includes the suggestions I regularly recommend to patients, friends, and family. Whether you’re visiting Austin or have called it home for years, I hope you find some inspiration here.

You’ll find recommendations for:

Nature escapes
Health-conscious gluten and dairy-free restaurants
Activities that support your mind and body
Wellness experiences that promote detoxification, energy, and resilience

Although this list features warmer-weather activities, most can be enjoyed year-round thanks to Austin’s generally moderate climate. Use this supportive tool as a guide for reconnecting with yourself in the city and feeling your best, any time of year.

Get in Touch with Nature!

Here are some of my favorite places for inner city nature connection

1. Barton Creek Greenbelt

Weaving through Austin, spanning miles and miles, Barton Creek Greenbelt offers many trails, swimming holes, and towering limestone cliffs. With multiple entry points scattered from South Austin to the 360 trailhead, the Greenbelt gives you options depending on the kind of adventure you’re craving.

2. Zilker Park

Zilker Park is an OG Austin classic! Bring a picnic, a book, a football, or a frisbee and enjoy the sunshine in this beautiful, wide-open space in the heart of the city. Within the park is a central hub for recreation, featuring a wide range of attractions and amenities, including Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Botanical Garden, Austin Nature and Science Center, Zilker Clubhouse, the Girl Scout Lodge, Zilker Hillside Theater, and the Umlauf Sculpture Garden (more on these below).

3. Zilker Botanical Gardens

This beautiful garden within Zilker Park is bursting with life and color. With thousands of native plants and multiple gardens that flow seamlessly together, taking a walk through the area will leave you feeling serene. You can appreciate the wonder and diversity Mother Nature has to offer.

4. Pease Park

Stretching alongside Shoal Creek, this lush green park offers a peaceful pause from city life without ever leaving. With lofty oak trees, this park provides a more secluded feel. In recent years, wooden sculptures and structures have been added, bringing elements of art and nature together.

5. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

If you like flowers, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is the perfect place to spend an afternoon in Austin.

Officially recognized as the Botanic Garden and Arboretum of Texas, this 284-acre center celebrates the incredible beauty and diversity of native plants.

You’ll find colorful gardens, scenic walking trails, and plenty of opportunities to learn how native plants support clean water, wildlife, and human health. It’s a peaceful spot to stroll, snap gorgeous photos, or just soak in the natural beauty of Texas.

Connecting with nature has a multitude of benefits for the mind, body, and soul.

In Japanese, there is a specific word for this practice, surrounding yourself with nature, called Shinrin-yoku. This translates to tree bathing. Science is catching up with this concept, shining a light on the transformative effects it can have on the mind and body. Studies show that engaging in Shinrin-yoku reduces stress hormones, improves sleep, and even increases the intracellular levels of anticancer proteins

Take a dip in a natural spring

A natural swimming spot is not just a fun and obvious choice to cool off; it’s also an impactful health decision. The spring-fed pools in and around Austin, TX, are beautiful and free of harsh pool chemicals like chlorine. Natural spring water offers a refreshing and low-toxin alternative that’s kinder to the skin, lungs, and microbiome.

1. Barton Springs

Our iconic hometown favorite. Barton Springs has been a beloved oasis for Austinites for generations, fed by the underground Edwards Aquifer. Located in the heart of Zilker Park, this three-acre, spring-fed pool maintains an average temperature of around 68 to 70 degrees year-round, making it the ideal place to cool off in the peak of summer. During the winter months, Barton Springs can also be used as a beautiful space for cold plunging. Surrounded by grassy hills, shade trees, the experience is grounding, energizing, and deeply restorative.

2. Deep Eddy Pool

Deep Eddy Municipal Pool is filled with clear spring-fed water from the Edwards Aquifer. Some of the coolest waters you’ll find, offering a refreshing reprieve from the Texas heat. This pool has a more traditional feel to it, but without the toxic chlorine!

3. Krause Springs

Krause Springs is a hidden gem. If you have time, take the 40-minute drive outside of Austin to experience what feels like a secret paradise. The trees tower high above the pond, and the roots wrap up and above the water’s edge.

4. Blue Hole

Nestled in the Hill Country, just a 35-minute drive from Austin, lies this treasure. Blue Hole has some of the most pristine and fresh water, with tall cypress trees that line the banks. Definitely worth the drive.

Watch The Sunset

1. South Congress Bat Bridge

From March through October, just before sunset, over a million Mexican free-tailed bats take flight from underneath the Congress Avenue Bridge. It’s one of Austin’s most unique natural events—and a favorite evening outing for locals and visitors alike.

You can watch from above on the bridge, or head below to the grassy banks of Lady Bird Lake for a more relaxed view. Some even kayak out for a sunset paddle as the bats emerge.

2. Mount Bonnell

Overlooking the Colorado River, Mount Bonnell offers a fantastic and almost unbeatable view of the river and city skyline.

3. 360 Overlook

Situated next to the 360 Bridge, this overlook has some short and sweet trails and a clifftop peak overlooking the river. Watching the sky light up like a watercolor during sunset, with the river reflecting its colors, feels pretty special here. The 360 Bridge, also known as the Pennybacker Bridge, is one of Austin’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1982, it was only the second bridge in the world to use a cable support system. Designed by civil engineer Percy V. Pennyback, the unique structure was created to keep the waters of Lake Austin unobstructed for boating and paddling.

Get Active!

Physical activity is one of the easiest ways to improve your health. Movement and exercise engage your muscles and your nervous system, supporting everything from mood to metabolism.

In a city like Austin, staying active isn’t just encouraged–it’s built into the landscape. With trails, parks, rivers, and activity spaces woven throughout the city, movement becomes a natural and enjoyable part of daily life.

1. Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, also known by locals as the Lady Bird Lake Trail

This 10-mile trail encircles Lady Bird Lake at the center of the city. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll, run, or a long bike ride, the hike and bike trail is right in the heart of Austin. This trail brings you gorgeous views of the river, sun sparkling on the water, trees surrounding the banks and trail edges, and views of the Austin skyline. With many different entry points around the river, you can easily spend 20 minutes here or 2 hours.

2. Kayak and Paddle Boarding

Spending a day on Lady Bird Lake never gets old for even an original Austinite. Put on some non-toxic sunscreen and soak up the sun.

3. Austin Bouldering Project

Switch up your workout routine at ABP. This rock climbing gym was designed by both climbers and interior designers, making it not only a great place to exercise but a visually exciting place to spend your time.

Restaurants: Making Health Conscious Choices

Choosing where to dine out may seem like a simple decision, but when it comes to supporting your health, the quality of ingredients truly matters.

Restaurants can vary significantly in how they source, prepare, and serve their food. For those following gluten-free, dairy-free, or paleo-friendly approaches, it is especially important to choose places that prioritize clean, nutrient-dense ingredients and mindful preparation.

Below, I have curated a list of some of my favorite Austin restaurants. These are places I trust to provide meals that are both nourishing and enjoyable, using ingredients that align with a functional medicine approach to wellness.

Many of these restaurants are also popular local favorites. To ensure a relaxing experience, I recommend making a reservation in advance, especially on weekends.

Here is My Go-To List of Austin Restaurants with Vibrant and Healthy Meals

1. The Well

The Well works with local and sustainable farms to source fresh and ethical ingredients
Nutritionists work with the chefs to craft the menu, making sure options are both delicious and balanced
The menu is free of gluten, dairy, seed oils, refined sugar, and GMOs

2. Picnik

Picnik has a gluten-free kitchen! There is no risk of cross-contamination here
The menu is also refined sugar-free and peanut-free, while incorporating sustainable and organic produce into the dishes

3. True Food

Founded by an internal medicine doctor, True Food’s menu is crafted with an anti-inflammatory diet in mind

4. Casa De Luz

With a daily rotating menu, this macrobiotic restaurant uses only fresh organic ingredients.
Casa de Luz is not just a restaurant, it’s a community center for people who value mind and body wellbeing
Just outside the restaurant is Alchemy Juice, offering cold-pressed organic drinks

5. Juiceland and Soup Peddler

Juiceland and Soup Peddler are two locally owned businesses that offer cold-pressed juices made right on the spot, and delicious smoothies packed with nutrients—a perfect snack and pick-me-up for any day of the week.

6. The Grove

The Grove sources local and organic produce to craft their dishes. The menu is mostly gluten-free, and even the pasta and pizza dishes can be made gluten-free.

7. Dai Due

Dai Due uses entirely local produce. All the meats are from local ranches, never a factory farm. The menu rotates seasonally, bringing new, delicious culinary dishes with the freshest ingredients.

8. ATX Cochina

Modern Mexican restaurant offering a 100% gluten-free menu, focusing on premium seafood, prime steaks, and organic chicken.

9. Wink

Embraces farm-to-table ideology, as well as local farms & gardens, small family farms, and sustainable agriculture.

10. Sunlife Organics

Not unique to Austin, but if you’re looking for a healthy spot, Sun Life Organics is a great choice. They serve nourishing smoothies and bowls, cold-pressed juices, matchas, and nutrient-dense breakfasts.

Sweet Treats!

Everyone deserves to indulge in some sweets now and then, and Austin makes it easy to treat yourself without compromising your health goals. The city is home to several enticing spots that cater to gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo lifestyles, offering delicious desserts that satiate your sweet tooth and support a lower-inflammatory diet.

1. Thai Fresh

This local Thai spot has an entire cafe area with two full dessert cases packed full of gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan dessert options. They also sell delicious and creamy dairy-free ice cream.

2. Luv Fats

Who would have thought avocado and coconuts could be made into a smooth and sweet ice cream– Luv Fats, that’s who!
This locally owned business sells its sweet treats at local farmers’ markets around town, with some of the most creative and enticing flavors

3. Lick Ice Cream

This ice cream shop always offers a few dairy-free/vegan options.

4. Yummy Joy

Located on 2nd Street, Yummy Joy offers a variety of vegan ice cream options. Yummy Joy is actually inside Toy Joy, Austin’s world-famous toy store, making it the perfect spot to pair playful browsing with a sweet treat.

5. Zucchini Kill Bakery

Cupcakes, cookies, and breads that are 100% gluten, dairy, and soy-free. Zucchini Kill is a must-visit for anyone who wants a sweet treat while in Austin.

6. Gati’s Vegan Ice-Cream

Known for their vegan ice cream and gluten-free baked goods, this spot proves that indulgence can be both delicious and mindful.

Their ice cream menu rotates through more than 40 inventive flavors, all crafted with a creamy coconut milk base. Most flavors use just five simple ingredients, sweetened with organic fair-trade sugar or palm sugar, and they never use stabilizers.

Gluten and Dairy-Free Recipes

If you enjoy baking and handcrafting your own healthy treats, I’ve shared some of my favorite recipes here. I call them smart splurges; they’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and designed to support your health without sacrificing enjoyment.

Farmers’ Markets

Going to the farmers’ market on the weekend is a great way to be part of the local community and shop with purpose. Many of the farms around Austin use organic and regenerative farming practices. The produce is picked at its prime. You can taste the difference when biting into a fresh piece of fruit from a local farm. The colors are more vibrant, and the taste is fuller.

1. Mueller Farmers’ Market

Sundays from 10 am-2 pm
Mueller Farmers Market is one of my favorites. Situated next to Mueller Park, it’s a great option to access locally grown fresh food. Pick up some veggies, then sit by the pond under the sun and relax

2. SFC (Downtown) Farmers’ Market

Saturdays 9 am to 1 pm

3. Baron Creek Farmers’ Market

Sundays from 9 am to 1 pm.
At the Barton Creek Mall, just a few miles from downtown Austin. Multi-award-winning Austin farmers market providing fresh organic products, prepared foods, and artisan gifts.

Plan a Wellness Day

Here at my clinic, I have a few options if you’re needing some rejuvenation.

My Clinic | Ann Shippy, MD

Open Monday-Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
6836 Bee Cave Rd., Austin, TX 78746

Microneedling with PRP:

Natural skin rejuvenation using your body’s healing factors.
Great for skin texture, collagen, and glow.

Pharmaceutical-grade supplements:

Our carefully curated selection is extensive, comprehensive, and high-quality, designed to support detoxification, general wellness, fertility, mitochondrial function, metabolism, gut health, healthy aging, and more.

Paleo Protein Powder:

Contains an abundance of nutrients, including amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, derived from whole food ingredients. 18g of protein per serving. Gluten-free, sugar-free, and filler-free.

Electrolytes:

Boost your energy this summer with this supplement. Electrolytes carry electrical charges required for the biochemical generation of energy. When you sweat, you lose important minerals. Electrolyte supplements are a great way to quickly replenish those lost minerals and prevent dehydration

Collagen:

Collagen is what gives tendons, ligaments, fascia, cartilage, bone, and skin their structural stability. With all the activity and movement that summer brings, support your muscles, bones, and joints with this supplement.

Creatine:

Creatine supports muscle strength and can boost athletic performance. Anyone participating in athletic activities, like hiking and biking, can benefit from creatine. It can allow a shorter recovery time from intense physical activity and help prevent fatigue.

IV Therapy

If the busyness of summer or the intense Texas heat is draining you, consider making an appointment for IV Therapy in my clinic, just outside of downtown Austin. I offer NAD+, Pk Protocol, immune-boosting Myers Cocktail, vitamin shots, and more. Schedule online here.
NAD IV, Myers Cocktail, Glutathione, PC

Calm Your Nervous System

With Austin growing as much as it has in recent years, new businesses are popping up left and right. There are many options to incorporate wellness and health into how you spend your time.

Here are options that are offered all over Austin:

Yoga Classes

Yoga is like a moving meditation, recharging and restoring at the same time. Active but also often relaxing. The perfect activity for an integrative lifestyle.

Sound Baths

In a sound bath, gongs, singing bowls, and different frequencies wash over your body and calm your nervous system, leaving you in a deeply relaxed state.
Classes are offered at Casa de Luz, the meditation bar, and some yoga studios around town

Acupuncture

Rooted in Eastern medicine, acupuncture has gained well-deserved recognition in integrative and functional medicine for its ability to support the body’s natural healing processes. By stimulating specific points along the body’s meridians, acupuncture helps regulate the flow of energy, or Qi, to restore balance, reduce inflammation, and promote resilience. Whether you’re navigating stress, hormonal imbalances, or chronic symptoms, acupuncture can be a gentle yet powerful tool to support nervous system regulation, improve circulation, and enhance overall well-being.

Float tanks

Float Therapy: A Deep Reset for Body and Mind
Stepping into a float tank offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from external stimulation and allow your nervous system to truly rest. With no light, sound, or gravity to process, your body enters a deeply relaxed state, often deeper than traditional meditation. This sensory-free environment supports stress reduction, muscle recovery, and even improved sleep. If you’re looking to expand your relaxation toolkit, float therapy can be a powerful way to support both physical and emotional resilience.

Visual Elegance

Art and beauty are powerful forms of nourishment, too. Immersing yourself in creative spaces can lift your spirit, quiet your mind, and spark inspiration. Austin is home to remarkable places where art, architecture, and natural surroundings come together, offering restorative experiences that feed both emotional and physical well-being.

Umlauf Sculpture Garden

Showcases the bronze and stone works of Charles Umlauf, renowned for his expressive sculptures of the human form, animals, and mythology. Winding gravel paths lead you through intimate clearings, each revealing a new sculpture with its own mood and movement.

Blanton Museum

The Blanton features art spanning from the Renaissance to the contemporary. Journey through time and continents here.

Ellsworth Kelly Chapel Temple for Light.

This temple honors art, color, architecture, nature, and light. Ellsworth Kelly designed this masterpiece as one of the final works of his life. Stained glass geometric windows bring colorful patterns inside the building as the sun comes through.

Nourish Your Mind

Reading strengthens your ability to focus, empathize, and think critically. Research in neuropsychology shows that deep reading actually supports deep thinking, expanding both intellect and emotional insight.

Austin is home to some wonderful and unique local bookstores with great character and charm

Book People

A staple of Austin since 1970, Book People is a Texas-sized bookstore located in downtown Austin. Book People has a vast selection of books spanning every genre. On the first floor, tucked in the corner, is a small cafe. Grab a tea and find your new great read here.

Black Pearl Books

An independent bookstore located in North Austin. Black Pearl Books is a family-run business whose mission is to “promote diversity, inclusion, and representation through literature.”

Book Woman

A woman-owned independent bookstore that’s been in Austin for almost fifty years. Currently located on Burnet Rd. with a great curated selection.

Austin is a place that prides itself on wellness and “weirdness” (“Keep Austin Weird” is the city’s unofficial motto). From its trails and natural springs to its health-conscious restaurants, creative bakeries, and vibrant cultural spots, there are many ways to nurture your body and mind here.

My hope is that this guide inspires you to see Austin through the lens of wellness, where every activity is an opportunity to connect more deeply with yourself, your community, and your environment. Whether you’re visiting or lucky enough to call this city home, may your time here leave you feeling energized, balanced, and inspired.

Resources:

Things to do in Austin, Texas: A Wellness Guide