25 Fun Things to Do in Austin, Texas with Kids
Introduction
Austin, Texas, known for its eclectic live music scene, quirky cultural landscape, and energetic outdoor lifestyle, isn’t just for adults. It’s also a hub of family-friendly activities designed to keep kids engaged and entertained. Whether you’re a local looking for weekend ideas or a visitor planning a family trip, Austin offers endless kid-friendly attractions that mix fun with educational opportunities. Finding the perfect balance between amusement and educational experiences is important, and Austin truly delivers on both ends of the spectrum.
This list of 30 things to do with kids in Austin combines the city’s scenic outdoors, vibrant cultural spaces, and interactive experiences to offer something for every child, ranging from infants to teenagers. Whether you’re exploring a natural spring, riding an amphibious vehicle, or tackling an indoor climbing wall, the possibilities are endless.
1. Explore Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool
Zilker Park
Located in the heart of downtown Austin, Zilker Park is a sprawling 350-acre green space that doubles as a playground for families. The park has something for everyone, with playgrounds, walking trails, and seasonal events like the Zilker Kite Festival and the Trail of Lights. One of the notable attractions is the large playscape, which features playground equipment suitable for kids of all ages. Perfect for kite flying, picnics, soccer, and even a relaxing day by Lady Bird Lake, Zilker Park provides a great escape where the whole family can unwind outdoors [1][11].
Barton Springs Pool
Inside Zilker Park, you’ll find Barton Springs Pool, a naturally spring-fed pool with constant 68-degree water temperature, making it a refreshing respite from Austin’s summer heat. The area is separated into a deeper swimming section and a shallow area perfect for kids to splash around safely. Best of all, Barton Springs is open year-round, so a cool dip is possible no matter when you visit [1][11].
Pro Tip: On busy weekends or holidays, it’s best to arrive early to grab a good parking spot and a comfortable space to spread your blanket by the pool’s edge.
2. Visit The Thinkery – Austin’s Children’s Museum
The Thinkery, Austin’s interactive children’s museum, offers a hands-on approach to learning, specifically focused on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). The museum’s exhibits are designed to inspire curiosity and encourage children to develop problem-solving skills. Popular exhibits include the “Light Lab,” where children can experiment with lights and colors, and the “WaterWorks,” which involves hands-on water manipulation. The different exhibits are suitable for all ages (with extra emphasis on children under 10), making this museum a must-visit destination for any family [1][8].
The indoor and outdoor play areas offer more than enough physical and mental stimulation to keep children engaged for hours. Parents planning a visit should bring extra clothes for the water exhibits and take advantage of nearby amenities like Mueller Lake Park, where families can unwind and enjoy a peaceful lakeside walk after the museum visit [8].
3. Discover the Austin Nature & Science Center
Located on the edge of Zilker Park, the Austin Nature & Science Center is a hidden gem for families looking to experience nature up close at no cost since admission is free. Indoor exhibits focus on local wildlife and ecosystems, while outdoor spaces let kids explore at their own pace. The hands-on environmental education center is designed to foster an appreciation for Texas’ natural habitats, including a popular dinosaur dig pit where children can “excavate” fossils of pretend dino specimens. There is also a wildlife exhibit showcasing Texas-native animals, such as birds of prey, mammals, and reptiles [1][8].
For active kids who love the outdoors, the trails surrounding the center offer space to run around while discovering local wildlife and plant species. It’s an ideal way to mix casual exercise with educational experiences in nature.
4. Peter Pan Mini Golf
Peter Pan Mini Golf is an iconic Austin institution that has been enchanting families since 1948. This retro mini-golf course is colorful and whimsical, with large themed statues that include everything from dinosaurs to Peter Pan himself. It features two 18-hole courses that are fun for participants of all ages, making it an ideal stop for families with children of varying age ranges [1][11].
The charm of Peter Pan Mini Golf lies in its old-school atmosphere, set against the beautiful Austin skyline. It’s easy to lose track of time as you marvel at the quirky sculptures that add a spark of excitement to the challenging courses. For just a few dollars per person, you can treat your family to affordable fun in an enchanting setting.
5. Take a Ride on Austin Duck Adventures
For a unique way to see the city, hop aboard Austin Duck Adventures—an amphibious vehicle that takes families on a tour of both downtown Austin and picturesque Lake Austin. Known as a “duck” vehicle (due to its ability to travel both on land and water), this tour offers a fun and informative journey through some of Austin’s most famous landmarks, including the Texas Capitol and Congress Avenue. After driving through the streets of Austin, the vehicle dives directly into Lake Austin for a scenic water tour, offering an unforgettable experience for young passengers [1][11].
The tour is engaging but not too long, making it suitable for children with shorter attention spans. Friendly guides who incorporate humor and local knowledge into their narrations ensure that parents are entertained as well!
6. Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
Wrap around the beautiful Lady Bird Lake by walking or biking on its scenic, 10-mile winding trail. This trail is popular among both residents and tourists, offering incredible views of downtown Austin’s skyline while being close enough to nature for families to feel like they’ve escaped the urban hustle. The path is mostly flat and stroller-friendly, making it ideal for families with young children.
You can rent bikes—including kid-sized ones—or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll along the lake. There are plenty of shaded picnic spots to take a break or enjoy an outdoor lunch, making it an ideal location for a day out with the family.
Pro Tip: The Boardwalk section of the trail is exceptionally lovely during sunrise or sunset, providing stunning views of the city’s reflection on the water.
7. Pease Park and Treehouse Observation Pod
Pease Park, famously known for its annual Eeyore’s Birthday Festival, is another peaceful escape within the city for families with young children. It’s extensively renovated with new playground equipment, shade structures, and interactive elements, but the biggest highlight is the Treehouse Observation Pod, designed to offer panoramic elevated views of the park’s natural landscapes [1][4].
Alongside a modern playground and interactive water features that run during the summer months, the park is perfect for family picnics and outdoor play. Pease Park’s many picnic spots and open space allow families to lay out blankets and snacks, encouraging everyone to enjoy a day outside without straying too far from central Austin.
8. Spend the Day at Waterloo Greenway
Waterloo Greenway is a newer addition to Austin’s collection of parks and green spaces, featuring over 1.5 miles of walking trails, butterfly gardens, and newly designed playscapes. A day in Waterloo Greenway is a peaceful yet invigorating way to experience nature with the kids within the city’s downtown area. Creek beds offer fun exploration opportunities, while public art installations and gardens inspire creativity. The ample green space and creative elements offer a variety of activities suitable for children and adults alike [4].
This environmentally focused park has been designed with sustainability and outdoor education in mind, providing a great blend of fun and learning opportunities.
9. Inner Space Cavern Adventure Tour
Head to Inner Space Cavern, a prehistoric cave located just outside Austin in Georgetown. Discovered in 1963, these caverns have remained beautifully intact, allowing visitors of all ages to delve deep underground and learn about natural history and geology. Families can participate in guided walking tours encompassing crib-sized fossils and other fascinating discoveries. This adventure is both educational and thrilling for young explorers [1][4].
The caverns also offer hands-on activities such as fossil excavation and gemstone mining, making this the ideal day trip for children who are fascinated by the idea of being treasure hunters or paleontologists.
10. Picnic at Mayfield Park & Nature Preserve
Mayfield Park offers a peaceful retreat where families can pack a picnic to enjoy scenic surroundings complete with beautiful ponds and gardens. The park is perhaps best known for its resident peacocks, which roam freely across the idyllic landscape. The peacocks’ elaborate tail feathers delight children and adults alike.
The tranquil gardens are an ideal backdrop for a family-friendly outing or picnic. Nature enthusiasts will love exploring the park’s short hiking trails, or taking a leisurely walk around the enchanting lily ponds [1][11].
11. Visit the Austin Zoo
Unlike traditional zoos, the Austin Zoo is a non-profit rescue zoo, dedicated to providing sanctuary and rehabilitation to abandoned and neglected animals. Home to over 300 animals across 100 species, the zoo offers educational programs covering topics like wildlife conservation, making it a balanced mix of fun and learning for curious youngsters [4].
Interactive exhibits allow children to learn about the animals while observing them in humane environments built to resemble their natural habitats.
12. Explore the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Known for its dedication to preserving native plants and landscapes, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a great spot for both parents and kids to enjoy the beauty of Texas wildflowers, particularly during spring when bluebonnets and other vibrant blooms are in season. The Family Garden features climbing structures, a mosaic wall for self-expression, and nature-themed interactive play areas to stimulate young imaginations [4].
Educational tours highlight the importance of native plants in ecosystems, making it a learning experience for every visitor.
13. Central Market North Lamar Playground
Stop by the Central Market North Lamar for a unique combination of food shopping and outdoor play. Adjacent to the grocery store is a large, well-designed playground where kids can burn off energy while parents enjoy relaxed dining options at the nearby café. Central Market often hosts live music on weekends, turning the outdoor area into a family-friendly social hub where locals gather for fun-filled evenings. Let the kids play, dance, and enjoy the joyful ambiance [1][3].
This multi-use space makes it easy to sneak in a grocery run without sacrificing family fun.
14. Enjoy the Austin Aquarium
The Austin Aquarium offers hands-on exhibits giving children the chance to engage with marine life up close. From feeding stingrays and sharks to holding starfish and other small sea creatures in touch tanks, there’s no shortage of interactive opportunities to immerse your children in underwater ecosystems. Educational workshops and programs provide insight into the importance of marine conservation, leaving kids both entertained and informed[4].
Though smaller than some aquariums, the Austin Aquarium excels in creating engaging and educational experiences well-suited for younger children.
15. Play at Catch Air Indoor Playground
On hot Texas days or during rainy weather, indoor playgrounds like Catch Air provide the perfect outlet for kids’ boundless energy. Especially designed for children under the age of eight, this indoor playground features tunnels, slides, and separate play areas designed to cater to toddlers. Safety is a top priority, ensuring peace of mind for parents while their little ones romp around.
The themed play zones include interactive lights, music, and decorations that will transport your kids to imaginative worlds [3][8].
16. Visit the Museum of Ice Cream
If your kids have a sweet tooth, they won’t want to miss the Museum of Ice Cream, an immersive space where every room is themed around everyone’s favorite frozen treat. Walk through the colorful and highly Instagram-friendly displays, jump into the sprinkle pool, and sample unlimited ice cream varieties as part of your visit. It’s a multi-sensory, interactive experience that is sure to excite children (and parents too!) [8].
The experience combines whimsical fun with Insta-worthy backdrops, lending itself to memorable family photos.
17. Climb at Austin Bouldering Project
For active families, check out the Austin Bouldering Project, the world’s largest bouldering gym, where kids of all ages can test their climbing skills. The gym has extra-thick padded floors, so even young or first-time climbers can enjoy the satisfaction of scaling walls in a safe environment. With no ropes or harnesses required, bouldering is accessible for all skill levels, creating a perfect family activity for competitive kids to burn off energy [1][3].
There’s no minimum age requirement, making it a great indoor activity for even the youngest climbers in your family.
18. Explore Laguna Gloria Art Museum & Sculpture Garden
The lakeside beauty of Laguna Gloria combined with its outdoor contemporary art installations makes this a perfect spot for both children and adults to enjoy art and nature. The short, shaded trails around the grounds offer plenty of opportunities to stumble upon whimsical sculptures. There are often child-friendly art workshops hosted at the museum, allowing the younger members of the family to get hands-on with different materials and techniques [4][8].
The relaxed and spacious environment makes it easy for the entire family to explore at their own pace, all while instilling an appreciation for visual arts.
19. Play Arcade Games at Pinballz Arcade
Family-friendly arcades are a timeless option for letting kids and parents relax and play together. Pinballz Arcade features over 150 pinball machines, classic retro arcade games, and racing simulators, without the loud music or alcohol-based atmospheres that are standard at some locations. With a wide selection of games from different eras, families can enjoy cooperative or competitive play sessions [1][4].
This family-run arcade keeps the focus firmly on safe, fun enjoyment, making it an easy choice for an afternoon of nostalgic and child-friendly amusement.
20. Splash Around at Alliance Children’s Garden
Located near Lady Bird Lake, the Alliance Children’s Garden boasts colorful playground structures and splash pads designed specifically with children in mind. The playscapes include whimsical bridges, climbing ropes, and twisty slides. During the hotter months, the splash pad offers a great way for kids to cool down, making this a must-visit during summer [1][4].
With its location in Butler Park, you’re right next to some of Austin’s most scenic natural areas, meaning families can combine active play with peaceful picnics or casual strolls.
21. Explore Zilker Botanical Garden
The ethically and environmentally designed Zilker Botanical Garden stretches across 30 acres and includes exhibits that showcase Texas’ native plants, prehistoric-themed gardens, and stunning Japanese gardens. It’s a beautiful place to spark a child’s interest in gardening, conservation, or simply enjoying the tranquil ambiance [7][9].
Children will most enjoy the koi ponds, waterfalls, and the variety of footbridges and paths that lead them through different thematic landscapes. Zilker Botanical Garden often hosts special educational tours and events that are designed to engage kids in the world of botany.
22. Ride the Zilker Zephyr Miniature Train
The Zilker Zephyr, a miniature train that weaves its way around the grounds of Zilker Park, offers kids (especially younger ones) an enjoyable and somewhat nostalgic ride along the scenic views of Barton Creek. The ride only takes around 20 minutes, making it short enough to keep toddlers engaged without taking up much time [9].
For many locals, riding the Zilker Zephyr is a family tradition, and its charm never wanes, providing a simple, fun way to bask in Austin’s natural beauty.
23. Visit the Texas Capitol Building
Learning about the Lone Star State’s history becomes an exciting adventure for kids with a trip to the Texas State Capitol Building. Free guided tours are available throughout the day and are kid-friendly with lots of digestible information about Texas’ rich political history. The stunning architecture and the Capitol’s giant dome appeal to both children and adults.
Once you’ve explored the interior, the Capitol grounds invite you to stroll or picnic, offering a calming green space in the heart of downtown Austin.
24. Experience Wonderspaces Interactive Art Exhibit
Wonderspaces is an exciting new addition to Austin’s art scene, a venue that showcases large-scale, immersive art installations. The interactive components at Wonderspaces make it an excellent choice for families. From virtual reality experiences to large interactive light displays, every exhibit engages multiple senses. It’s a great way to introduce or broaden children’s understanding of contemporary art, all while keeping them actively interested in the exhibits [9].
Due to its ever-evolving installations, each visit offers something new to discover.
25. Visit the Mexic-Arte Museum
When it comes to alternative ways of educating children about art and culture, the Mexic-Arte Museum in the heart of downtown Austin shines. It showcases Mexican, Latinx, and Chicano art, offering vibrant exhibits that touch on identity, culture, and history. The museum offers free admission every Sunday, which makes it highly accessible for families looking for educational weekend entertainment without breaking the bank [9].
The child-friendly exhibit scapes and rich storytelling embedded in the art are particularly engaging for younger audiences, making a compelling stop along Austin’s cultural circuit.
FAQs Section: “Things to Do in Austin with Kids”
Q: What are some free things to do in Austin with kids?
A:
- You can visit Zilker Park for outdoor play, picnics, and running trails.
- The Austin Nature & Science Center offers free admission to nature exhibits, dig pits, and local wildlife exhibitions that are perfect for curious children.
- Spend a serene day at Mayfield Park, where you can picnic and watch free-roaming peacocks.
Q: What are good outdoor activities in Austin with kids?
A:
- Try kayaking or paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, or take the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail for a relaxing day in nature.
- Venture out for a scenic hike along the Barton Creek Greenbelt where even moderately experienced children can handle the trails.
- Zilker Botanical Garden offers tranquil paths, educational tours, and relaxed outdoor fun amid lush greenery.
Q: What indoor activities are available in Austin for kids?
A:
- Visit The Thinkery, Austin’s dynamic children’s museum, full of STEM-based interactive exhibits.
- Let the kids loose at Pinballz Arcade, where they can enjoy classic pinball machines and arcade games.
- Catch Air Indoor Playground is perfect for days when the weather won’t cooperate, offering a child-safe environment full of tunnels, slides, and themed play zones.
Q: What are some educational places to visit in Austin with children?
A:
- Take a trip to the Texas State Capitol Building for a crash course on Texas history.
- Explore the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, where kids can learn about biodiversity and conservation.
- The guided tour at Inner Space Cavern will teach kids about geology, history, and paleontology!
Conclusion
Austin, Texas, is a city that has mastered the art of combining fun, nature, education, and adventure, making it one of the best destinations for a family vacation. Whether you’re a resident looking for new ways to entertain your kids or visiting Austin for the first time, this guide offers a diverse list of activities that will keep children of all ages engaged and excited. From outdoor adventures in sprawling parks to interactive science museums and wildlife encounters, the city is brimming with kid-friendly experiences.
Austin’s blend of cultural landmarks like the Texas State Capitol, creative hotspots such as Wonderspaces and Mexic-Arte Museum, and natural wonders like Barton Springs Pool and Inner Space Cavern ensures that there’s never a dull moment. Plus, whether your child is a budding artist, nature enthusiast, animal lover, explorer, or scientist, they will find something to pique their interest and imagination. With affordable and often free activities throughout the city—like visits to Mayfield Park, Zilker Park, and the Austin Nature & Science Center—exploring Austin with kids doesn’t have to break the bank.
The city’s family-friendly atmosphere means you can feel at ease while your kids have the time of their lives discovering new things. Whether it’s feeding stingrays at the Austin Aquarium or climbing their way through the Austin Bouldering Project, Austin is full of exciting, enriching activities that will wear them out by the end of the day—ensuring a restful night for the entire family.
In the end, Austin’s welcoming charm, vibrant outdoor scene, commitment to the arts, and thrilling kid-friendly venues make it a fantastic place for families to create lasting memories. So pack your bags, charge up those cameras, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable family adventure as you experience all that Austin has to offer with your kids!
