Since we only live about 3 hours away from Austin, we take frequent road trips down to the capital from our Dallas home. But it was only on our most recent trip that we discovered one of the most beautiful places in the entire city: Mayfield Park! 

Mayfield Park is a peaceful oasis full of lush trees, bright flowers, and even live peacocks. It’s completely free to visit, and it’s officially one of my favorite things we’ve done on any of our Austin weekend getaways.

Here’s everything to know about visiting Mayfield Park in Austin, TX.

The History of Mayfield Park

Mayfield Park was originally known as the Mayfield-Gutsch Estate. It was built in the 1870s and purchased by former Texas Secretary of State Allison Mayfield in 1909. His daughter Mary Frances and her husband Milton Gutsch inherited the property and developed the surrounding area into a botanical garden.

When Mary Frances died in 1971, she left the entire garden to the City of Austin to use as a public park. Today the park is adjacent to the Austin Museum of Art and is mainly known for its free-roaming peacocks.

Mayfield Park: Know Before You Go

If you want to visit Mayfield Park, there are a few things you should keep in mind beforehand.

1. The peacocks are friendly, but don’t touch them. 

Peacocks in general can be territorial, even though these birds are used to having humans traipsing around their home. In order to keep you safe and the peacocks safe, look but don’t touch. Admire their amazing plumage from afar.

2. No pets allowed.

Since there are peacocks roaming everywhere, there is a strict no pets policy at Mayfield Park. If you’re looking for a place to walk your dog, try Zilker Park instead.

3. You can pay to reserve the cottage or grounds.

Admission and parking at Mayfield Park are both free year-round, but if you want to host a private soiree, you can call the Austin Parks and Recreation Department at this number: 512-974-6797.

Our Experience at Mayfield Park

We stayed at Mayfield Park for probably at least an hour because I was so enamored with the peacocks. Right when we walked in, there were two of them perched up in the trees. 

Then another one waltzed right up to me along the stone wall and gave me the perfect opportunity to take his picture.

There were even more peacocks lounging about in the shade, nestled in the grass and fallen leaves. They looked so peaceful.

And sometimes they perched on the railing or the roof of the cottage. 

This was my first time seeing peacocks in person, so I had no idea they could climb so well or that they can glide between branches kinda like flying squirrels! They were fascinating and beautiful. 

Mayfield Park is located at 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX. Next time you’re in Austin, stop by Mayfield Park for a quiet retreat from the busy city. And if you’re looking for more fun things to do in Austin, check out this blog with over 30 ideas!