
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