Kid-friendly activities abound in Austin, TX, from outdoor spaces where the little ones can play and run freely to restaurants where young children can enjoy culinary adventures with the entire family.
Whether you’re a local looking for fun things you can experience with your children or you’re visiting from afar with the whole squad, our list of unforgettable things to do in Austin, Texas, with kids won’t disappoint.
1. Visit the Thinkery
The Thinkery is where science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) exhibits get families learning and laughing. This two-story Austin children’s museum offers kids of all ages opportunities to learn more about STEAM topics through fun and educational hands-on exploration.
Some of the activities your kids will love to explore include hands-on water activity stations at The Currents, exhibit-based healthy living at Fresh! Farmers’ Market, and the impact of color, light, and shadows at Light Lab.
2. Explore Zilker Metropolitan Park
The Zilker Metropolitan Park, a 361-acre park nestled in the heart of downtown, offers various activities for families.
One of the park’s most popular things to do in Austin with kids is taking a dip in the Barton Springs Pool, a man-made pool fed by natural springs. The Zilker Botanical Garden has several themed areas, including a Japanese Garden, a rose garden, a herb garden, and a butterfly trail.
3. Go Wild at the Austin Zoo
The Austin Zoo, home to over 300 animals representing over 100 different species, promises a one-of-a-kind experience through family-friendly events and educational programs for all ages.
You can book a private session for your family for an up-close-and-personal animal encounter where a zoo staff member will introduce you to ambassador animals, tell you about their species, and answer questions.
And while you’re here, don’t miss the train! Hop aboard the whimsical train for an engaging trip through the zoo’s scenic surroundings.
The zoo also allows visitors to bring food and drinks and indulge in a leisurely picnic at the Picnic Grove, so go ahead and pack your favorite snacks!
4. Discover Nature at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
If you’re looking for free things to do in Austin with family, the Luci and Ian Family Garden at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is an amazing attraction where kids can explore 4.5 acres of interactive and educational features and nature scapes.
Some of the popular features in this garden include a native shrub maze, giant tree stumps to climb on and around, a walk-through Fibonacci spiral, giant birds’ nests made from native grape vines, and a flowing creek with dinosaur footprints.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center also hosts engaging events year-round, including summer camps, garden design classes, watercolor workshops, and more!
5. Take a Bat Watching Cruise on Lady Bird Lake
From late March through early fall, Austin is home to North America’s largest urban bat population. During this time, sunsets bring forth hundreds to thousands of bats pouring out and cascading over Lady Bird Lake.
The best way to witness the bats ascend into the night sky is to go on a sunset bat-watching cruise with the whole family. Being on this guided cruise ensures that you and your family achieve an unforgettable experience by giving you the best vantage points for photography and observation.
Along with the visual treat, guides provide a rich educational experience through engaging and informative narration.
6. Enjoy a Round at Peter Pan Mini Golf
Peter Pan Mini Golf has been considered a staple family fun spot since 1948, beloved for its handcrafted sculptures of various animals, a giant tyrannosaurus rex and, and of course, Peter Pan himself.
There are two 18-hole courses – the East Course “Yellow” and the West Course “Blue.” The first hole of the West Course features Peter Pan himself. This hole is pretty easy, so your kids won’t need fairy dust to fly through to the next one!
7. Tour the Texas State Capitol
The Texas State Capitol is the tallest state capitol in the United States, standing 14.64 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Austin.
This iconic landmark offers an engaging and enriching experience for history enthusiasts and anyone who would like to explore this architectural grandeur that reflects the state’s distinctive character and unwavering spirit.
8. Experience Outdoor Adventures at McKinney Falls State Park
Located just 13 miles from the state capitol, McKinney Falls State Park offers an exceptional place to enjoy the great outdoors with your kids. The park is home to local wildlife like armadillos, painted bunting, and various snake species native to Texas.
There are tons of fun activities for the whole family, including camping, hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming. Your child can even become a Junior Ranger! Simply pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal and complete a certain number of tasks to earn a badge.
9. Spend a Day at the Austin Aquarium
Looking for indoor things to do in Austin? At the Austin Aquarium, you can experience everything the deep blue sea has to offer within its unique interactive exhibits.
The aquarium is a safe and comfortable environment where you can hand-feed sharks, rays, birds, and fish; pet one of the caiman lizards; and get up close with the Ruff and Ring-Tailed Lemurs.
Some of the featured exhibits include a wide variety of amphibians, lorikeets, a parakeet aviary, and a variety of cold water and tropical fish, including sharks and stingrays. The rainforest vivarium is home to hundreds of reptiles, ring-tailed lemurs, and Capybaras.
10. Savor Austin’s Food Scene with Kid-Friendly Options
When traveling with kids, it’s always good to have a list of kid-friendly dining options. Austin, TX, boasts a bustling food scene, and there are numerous restaurants to enjoy delectable cuisine with your little ones.
Below is a list of kid-friendly restaurants worth trying when you’re in Austin, Texas:
- Chuy’s
- Fresa’s
- Mandola’s
- El Mercado
- The Salt Lick
- Hank’s Austin
- Central Market
- Phil’s Icehouse
- Doc’s Backyard
- Ramen Tatsu-ya
- Home Slice Pizza
- Culinary Dropout
- Kerbey Lane Café
- Cidercade Austin
- Sour Duck Market
- Meanwhile Brewing
- Foreign & Domestic
- Little Deli & Pizzeria
- Mangieri’s Pizza Café
- Rudy’s Texas Bar-B-Q
- Kura Revolving Sushi Bar
- Oasthouse Kitchen + Bar
- Brentwood Social House
- Hat Creek Burger Company
- Mama Betty’s Tex-Mex y Cantina
Conclusion
Austin, TX, is an amazing place for families with young kids to explore and enjoy a plethora of activities and create lasting memories.
If you’d like to learn more about this beautiful city, including its real estate offerings, please give me a call today at 512-779-6745. You can also send me an email at joeschleis@realtyaustin.com to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin safe for families?
Yes, Austin is safe for families. Its crime rates are lower than in major Texas cities like Houston and Dallas.
What’s the best time of year to visit Austin?
The best months to visit Austin, TX, are from September to November or from March to May, when 70s and 80s are the anticipated daytime temperatures.
Are there free attractions for kids?
Yes, the Luci and Ian Family Garden at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is an amazing attraction where you and your kids can explore 4.5 acres of interactive and educational features and nature scapes for free.
