Mayfield Park and Preserve

Spend time exploring Mayfield Park’s lily ponds near the cottage, which are arranged in the shape of flower petals surrounding a circular center, with an hourglass pond that represents the stem. The property’s two dozen peafowl are descendants of an original pair that were given to former residents, the Gutsch family. You may visit independently or include Mayfield Park on a guided small-group tour of the Texas Hill Country.

• Mayfield Park is ideal for a quiet afternoon, a romantic date, and families with children, who enjoy tracking the peafowl across the grounds.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the property, which is surrounded by a 21-acre (8.5-hectare) reserve of walking trails and wildlife habitat.

• Pets are not allowed in the park.

• Both the cottage and gardens are wheelchair accessible.

The nearest public transit stop to Mayfield Park, on West 35th Street in Austin, is more than a half-mile (0.8 kilometers) away, so it’s best to drive or go with a tour. From downtown, take TX-1 Loop (Mopac) North to the 35th Street exit and then turn left. Free parking is available on-site.

Mayfield Park and Preserve are open from 5am to 10pm daily. The park’s trees provide a lot of shade, which is ideal on a hot summer’s day. If you’re interested in seeing the peacocks in their full, brilliant plumage, visit during the spring mating season, starting in February, when the males show off their feathers. Note that the gardens may be closed during private events, such as weddings.

Peafowl is the term for a type of male and female pheasants—peacock refers specifically to males, whilepeahen are females. During mating season, peahens choose their mates based on the color and size of their feathers. The life expectancy of these birds, one of the largest flying species, is about 20 years.