The city of Austin is hot. And we don’t just mean the temperature. This city seemingly blossomed overnight and is now the fastest growing city in the United States. The demographic in Austin is quite diverse, ranging from families with young children to college students to government workers. Austin is known for its music scene, tech industry, and strong support of local businesses. Even though Austin is a big city with a large population, it embraces a small town atmosphere, making it the perfect place for families. Keep reading for ideas on how to best spend your time in Austin, TX with the kids.
Austin is home to many amusement and wildlife parks as well as museums that cater to the entire family. There is also an endless stream of fun to be had outside. Check out some top activities for kids in Austin:
Explore Inner Space Cavern, an underground cavern full of Ice Age fossils
Step into the exotic world of the animal kingdom at the Austin Zoo
Rent kayaks or go for a hike at Lady Bird Lake
Admire a collection of iconic, vintage toys at the Austin Toy Museum
Cool down in Austin’s iconic Barton Springs Municipal Pool
From its delicious food to its many attractions, there is plenty to do in Austin for all ages. Head to a BBQ restaurant the entire family will enjoy, watch a movie, or go shopping. Find more kid-friendly activities here:
Stop by Austin Central Library to pick up books for the entire family
Enjoy a delicious homemade brunch with local ingredients at The Funkadelic
Get nostalgic with a film at the Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In
Check out a Magic's Theater and Museum family-friendly magic show
Explore the rooms full of oddities at the iconic store, Uncommon Objects
A day spent with the family in Austin doesn’t have to break the bank. This city is full of beautiful landmarks that are either inexpensive or free. See the best of Austin with these cheap things to do with kids:
Head to Covert Park at Mount Bonnell to see the highest view of the city
Get a photo with the Dance of the Cosmos sculpture and have a picnic at Patterson Park
Marvel at the beauty of the Texas Capitol, complete with marble floors and expansive lawns
Take a family photo at the “I love you so much” mural
Stop by The Driskill for a delicious breakfast in a historic building
Spend a day in Austin checking out the landmarks your kids will love. From storytime to local dessert you won’t forget, check out these fun attractions for kids in Austin:
Play on the playground and splash pad at Pease District Park
Drop in to children’s storytime at BookPeople bookstore
Learn about earth’s natural wonders at Wonder World Park
Track down the Hey Cupcake! food truck for a delicious treat
Round up your friends for an afternoon of fun in the Lone Star State. Austin is a city with many fun things to do in large groups. Start planning with any of the following kid-approved group activities:
Strap on your skates for a day at the rink at Playland Skate Center
Get in 18 holes at Peter Pan Mini-Golf
Participate in the fossil dig and play on the playground at the Dinosaur Park
Beat the summer heat at Volente Beach Waterpark
Tackle the obstacles and jump on trampolines at the Urban Air Adventure Park
While is it true that the city of Austin knows how to have fun, it also values education. This city has many museums and historical sites to explore. Expand your mind with any of the following learning experiences for kids:
Check out the petting zoo and a rural village built in 1899 at Jourdan-Bachman Pioneer Farms
Get interactive lessons in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math at Thinkery
Step back in time to the land of dinosaurs at the Texas Memorial Museum
Drop in to a family event at the Bullock Texas State History Museum
Enjoy the hands-on exhibits at the Austin Nature & Science Center
Austin is known for its music scene so it comes as no surprise that this city has plenty of creative activities to offer. Encourage your kids’ imagination with any of the following creative class opportunities in Austin:
Sign up for children’s theater classes at The Long Center for the Performing Arts
Learn some new chords with lessons at Austin Guitar School
Check out the kids art camps at Smudge Studios
Take an all ages painting class at Monet & Me art studio
Sign up for an intro to pottery class at The Art Garage
On the occasional rainy or cold day, Austin is at no shortage of fun things to do inside. Play games, roller skate, and don’t let the weather drag you down. Check out these fun things to do indoors with kids:
Check out the pinball machines and old school arcade games at Pinballz Arcade
Drop in for a couple hours of open skating at the Chaparral Ice Arena
Sign the kids up for a class while you practicing climbing at the North Austin Rock Gym
Find your next thrifted treasure at the Austin City Wide Garage Sale
Knock down all ten pins in a game at High 5 bowling alley