Mayfield Park

Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve is a historic 23-acre park located in west Austin, Texas. The park features a 1870s-era cottage, surrounded by 2 acres of vibrant gardens and towering palm trees. At the heart of the gardens are six cement ponds arranged in the shape of a flower, home to fish, turtles, frogs, and water lilies.

One of the park's most distinctive features is its population of free-roaming peafowl. Descendants of a pair gifted to the original owners in 1935, these colorful birds have become a beloved attraction. Visitors can observe both India Blue and Black Shoulder varieties of peacocks, peahens, and peachicks throughout the grounds.

Beyond the gardens, Mayfield Park includes a 21-acre nature preserve with hiking trails and diverse wildlife habitats. The preserve offers visitors a chance to explore native Texas flora and fauna in a tranquil setting. The park's location on a bluff provides scenic views overlooking Lake Austin.

The park's history dates back to 1909 when it was purchased by Allison Mayfield as a summer home. His daughter Mary and her husband Milton Gutsch later expanded the cottage and developed the gardens. Upon Mary's death in 1971, the property was gifted to the City of Austin for use as a public park. Today, Mayfield Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is maintained through a combination of city resources and dedicated volunteer efforts.

Mayfield Park serves as a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat within the city. The park is open daily from 5 AM to 10 PM, offering visitors ample opportunity to enjoy its natural beauty and historical significance.