Perry Neighborhood Park

Location and Overview

Tucked behind Highland Park Elementary School on Fairview Drive in Austin, Perry Neighborhood Park is the only official City of Austin green space within the Highland Park West Balcones Area Neighborhood Association (HPWBANA) boundaries.

Spread across 6.6 acres, this park acts as both a recreational sanctuary for locals and an extended playground for students. The park offers various activities for visitors of all ages.

Geological History

What makes this park particularly interesting is its past life as a limestone quarry. Take a moment to look around and you'll notice exposed rocks that tell the story of the land's natural history.

The park offers a mini geology lesson if you know where to look - the tilted rock layers and visible fault lines in the bluffs are actually remnants of the Balcones Fault Zone, the same geological feature that helped shape much of Central Texas millions of years ago.

Recreational Amenities

Perry Park doesn't skimp on things to do. Kids gravitate toward the large playground with its nature-inspired elements, including a challenging rock wall and whimsical mushroom steps that seem to be a universal hit with the younger crowd.

Tennis enthusiasts will appreciate the two well-maintained courts complete with a practice wall for solo sessions. The park also features sports fields for soccer (though they can get a bit parched during the Texas summer) and a basketball court for pickup games.

Trails and Natural Areas

If you're looking to reconnect with nature without venturing far from the city, the park's wooded area with trails offers a fantastic mini-escape. It's just right for walking your dog or enjoying a peaceful stroll among the trees.

For those keeping up with fitness goals, a figure-8 running track loops around the main recreational areas. The varied terrain around the park means you'll have interesting views no matter which activity brings you here.

Community Art Integration

In a lovely blend of nature and creativity, the park now hosts Perry Art Park, born from collaboration between community groups and arts organizations. The public art installations scattered throughout the space add an extra dimension to your visit, creating meaningful connections between art, nature, and community.

Facilities

One thing to note before you plan an extended visit - there are no restroom facilities in the park. Also, if you're planning an evening tennis match, be aware that the court lights aren't always reliable after dark.