Best Patios

Watters Creek is like the jackpot of patios. This open-air shopping center features 17–17!–different eateries and watering holes, all with patios. What sets these patios apart from others is that instead of facing busy streets or parking lots, they all face inward on the property, providing views of lush landscaping and even waterfalls.

Abel’s on the Lake overlooks Lake Austin, plus they have over 60 beers on tap, seventeen of which are local! Make sure to try the ranch-style jalapeño appetizer—it’s a house favorite.

The Lula Mae Slaughter Dining Terrace at the Dallas Arboretum has one of the best views of the city, overlooking downtown Dallas. Nosh on sandwiches, salads, wraps and desserts while you enjoy the view, surrounded by the Arboretum’s lush grounds.

Joe T. Garcia’s has grown from a one-room restaurant that seated only sixteen in 1935, to a sprawling locale that has a lush, tropical patio situated around a pool. The signature margaritas have kept people coming back for 75 years!

An umbrella-shaded table at this River Walk cantina is pretty hard to beat. Boudro’s is a great spot for people-watching and is also home to ShopAcrossTexas.com’s “Best Guacamole on the River Walk.”