Mayfield Park and Preserve

Address: 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
Hours: Daily 5am–10pm
Cost: Free

The Hook

A 1920s cottage garden on the edge of Lake Austin, famous for its resident peacocks that roam freely through the grounds.

Key Facts

• 21-acre preserve with a historic 1920s cottage, formal gardens, and natural woodland
• Home to a free-roaming flock of peacocks and peahens — they’ve been here for decades
• The formal garden features koi ponds and native plantings
• Borders the Colorado River/Lake Austin waterfront
• Managed by the City of Austin; the cottage interior is occasionally open for events

Story / History

Mary Bess Mayfield and her husband Allison acquired the property in the 1920s and developed the cottage and formal gardens as their private retreat. Mary Bess was a dedicated naturalist and gardener who cultivated the grounds over decades. She donated the property to the City of Austin in 1971 with the stipulation that it be kept as a park. The peacocks were part of the estate during her lifetime and the city has maintained the flock as a living piece of the property’s history. They’re entirely tame and will walk right up to visitors.

Insider Tips

• Peacocks are most active in the morning — early tours are best
• Spring (March–May): peacocks display full plumage; the males fan their trains to attract mates
• The koi pond near the cottage is a good anchor point for storytelling
• No dogs allowed (protects the birds)
• Small parking lot fills fast on weekends; aim for early morning

Logistics

• Tour stop duration: 30–45 min
• Parking: Small lot on W 35th St; arrive early
• Nearby stops: Mount Bonnell (5 min drive), Lake Austin waterfront

Sources

• City of Austin Parks: austintexas.gov