Tips for Traveling with Kids in Austin, Texas, United States

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Tips for Traveling with Kids in Austin, Texas, United States

1. Barton Springs Pool

A popular swimming spot in Austin with a consistent 68-degree water temperature. Perfect for a cool dip on hot days.
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Spacious areas and lifeguards ensure safety for children
  • Natural setting: Experience the beauty of a natural spring while enjoying water activities
  • Consistent temperature: Enjoy a refreshing swim regardless of the season

2. Zilker Metropolitan Park

A massive urban park featuring Zilker Botanical Garden, Zilker Nature Preserve, and Barton Creek Greenbelt.
  • Variety of activities: Offers a wide range of outdoor experiences for kids such as picnicking, hiking, and gardening
  • Large open spaces: Allows children to run around and burn off energy in a safe and controlled environment
  • Scenic beauty: Explore the natural beauty of Austin while enjoying quality family time

3. The Thinkery

A children's museum that encourages hands-on learning through play and discovery.
  • Interactive exhibits: Children can touch, see, hear, and even smell the exhibits to learn
  • Educational focus: Designed to promote creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in children
  • Special events: Regularly hosts themed events for kids throughout the year

4. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

A botanic garden dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Texas native plants.
  • Outdoor exploration: Offers beautiful outdoor trails for families to walk together
  • Native plant education: Learn about the importance of native plants and their role in ecosystems
  • Seasonal wildflower displays: Visit during specific seasons to see stunning wildflower displays

5. Mozart's Coffee Roasters

A coffeehouse chain in Austin that offers indoor and outdoor seating, live music performances, and a variety of baked goods.
  • Live entertainment: Children can enjoy free live music performances while parents relax with coffee
  • Comfortable seating: Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating options for families
  • Baked goods selection: A wide variety of pastries and snacks available for purchase

6. Texas State Capitol

The capitol building of Texas where visitors can tour the historic interior.
  • Historical significance: Learn about the history and government of Texas
  • Free guided tours: Tour guides are available to lead families through the building
  • Impressive architecture: View the beautiful and ornate interior of the Texas State Capitol

7. Austin Nature & Science Center

An interactive museum that focuses on local ecology and natural history.
  • Hands-on exhibits: Exhibits encourage interaction and learning for kids
  • Live animals: View a variety of local wildlife in the on-site animal enclosures
  • Nature trails: Explore outdoor nature trails for additional learning opportunities

8. Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail

A 10-mile trail surrounding Lady Bird Lake that offers scenic views and various recreational activities.
  • Outdoor exercise: Enjoy a family bike ride or walk along the trail
  • Scenic vistas: Take in breathtaking views of Austin's skyline and Lady Bird Lake
  • Recreational activities: Includes rentals for bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards

9. Mayfield Park and Preserve

A park featuring beautiful peacocks, peafowl, and gardens.
  • Peacock interaction: Children can interact with and observe the park's resident peacocks
  • Beautiful gardens: Stroll through lush, colorful gardens filled with native plants
  • Scenic pond: Enjoy a peaceful walk around the scenic pond in the park

10. Austin Aquarium

A small aquarium featuring local and exotic marine life, as well as interactive exhibits.
  • Interactive experiences: Children can touch and interact with sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and other marine creatures
  • Local and exotic marine life: See a variety of aquatic animals from Texas and around the world
  • Educational programs: Offers educational programs and activities for kids throughout the day

11. Austin Steam Train Association

A historic train ride experience that takes passengers through scenic Texas Hill Country.
  • Historic trains: Ride in vintage steam and diesel locomotives
  • Scenic routes: Enjoy beautiful views of Texas Hill Country during the train ride
  • Special events: Offers themed rides and events throughout the year

12. Pioneer Farms Historic Site

A living history museum that showcases 19th-century life in Texas.
  • Historical reenactments: Witness historical reenactments and demonstrations
  • Interactive exhibits: Participate in interactive activities such as blacksmithing, cooking, and weaving
  • Guided tours: Tour guides are available to lead families through the farm

13. The Cathedral of Junk

An eclectic art museum made entirely from found and recycled objects.
  • Unique artwork: View an ever-growing collection of recycled items transformed into art
  • Eco-friendly focus: Learn about the importance of recycling and repurposing materials
  • Tour by appointment only: Contact ahead for a guided tour of the Cathedral of Junk

14. Elizabeth Milburn Park

A park with a splash pad, playground, and sports facilities.
  • Water play area: Children can cool off in the splash pad on hot days
  • Playground equipment: Includes swings, slides, and climbing structures for kids
  • Sports facilities: Offers soccer fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts for families to enjoy

15. The Blanton Museum of Art

A modern art museum featuring an extensive collection of European and American art.
  • Broad collection: View a diverse range of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and installations
  • Educational programs: Offers guided tours, workshops, and family activities for kids
  • Temporary exhibitions: Visit to see featured temporary exhibits throughout the year