Are you looking for family fun – things to do in the Austin with kids?
This is the right place!
Austin is one of my favorite places to visit, basically because my sister and her family live there. We have been many, many times! There is so many things to do in Austin with kids!
Austin’s is known as the live music capital of the world but on top of all the live music there is so much to see and do for families.
Hopefully, this post will give you some ideas to help you plan your next trip!
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Texas State History Museum
We made a stop at the Bullock Texas State History Museum! It was so much fun! One thing we really enjoyed was the interactive 4D theater because we were able to watch a film about Texas. In the film we were blown by wind and poked by a rattlesnake. My kids loved it! The exhibits are hands on! I would recommend checking it out!
Where to Park
There is a parking garage located off of 18th street. During construction which is currently going on, the parking garage is still open. There is a fee of $10 to park.
Museum Hours
The Bullock Texas State History Museum is open Monday – Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Special Family Programs
The Bullock Texas State History Museum is for families! There are special events that happen throughout the year and hopefully if you are traveling to the area you will be around on one of these days.
Little Texans (2-5 years) On the second Thursday of each month there is a hands on program that incorporates movement and play.
Storytime (2-5 years) On the fourth Thursday of each month stories and song are used to teach young children all about Texas!
Science Thursdays- see demonstrations and experience hands on activities from STEM experts from Central Texas Discover Engineering.
Living History Days – First Thursday every month meet Costumed volunteers representing Texas state history characters that will tell stories all about themselves.
Basically, if you are going to go to this museum Thursday is the most family friendly day!
Zilker Park
Photo Courtsey of Premium Parking
One of the first things you need to add to your “things to do in Austin with kids” list is Zilker Park ! This park is gigantic! You could spend all day playing at the various playgrounds or enjoy the splash pad.
There is a Train that takes you around the park.
Austin Nature and Science Center
Photo Courtesy of Free Fun in Austin
The Austin Nature and Science Center is free and its hour of operation are from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. This fabulous museum is located on the northwest corner of Zilker Park. Parking is located under the Mopac overpass. It also includes:
- Visitor Center – Explore a Central Texas Cave
- Dino Dig Exhibit – Sand Pit with replicas of dinosaur bones
- Wildlife Exhibits – Enjoy foxes, raccoons, and other native animals that are not able to make it in the wild. These animals are cared for by the center.
- Forest Trial -1/2 mile walking trail
- Birds of Prey – Observe owls, roadrunners, and hawks along the Zilker Nature preserve trail.
- Small Wonders – Listen for the bats that live under Congress Bridge
- Human Sun Dial – A fun stop to use your shadow to tell time.
Barton Springs Pool
Photo Courtesy of Austin State Gov
Barton Springs Pool is a great place to cool down. It is a man made reservoir fed from natural spring water making the temperature 68 degrees. That is perfect for the hot temperatures Austin has in the summer.
This 3 acre pool is free from 5am – 8am and 9pm-10pm. During regular business hour of 8:00 a.m -9:00 p.m. entry gates charge a fee:
Adults $3
Junior (12-17) $2
Children and Seniors $1
Lifeguards are on duty during this time.
Botanical Garden
There is also a Botanical Garden also known as the “the jewel in the heart of Austin” 26 Acres of beautiful themed gardens are located in Zilker Park. The gardens are open from 9:00 a.m. -6:00 p.m. daily. There is an entrance fee of $2-3 for adults and $1 for children and seniors.
Zilker Park Theatre
One of my favorite things to do in Austin with kids is Zilker Park’s outdoor theater. Every summer they feature a play.
I really wanted to go see The Little Mermaid a few years ago but it was really hot! If you want a great seat you need to be there two hours before the show starts to place a blanket down on the hillside. The show usually starts at sundown or around 8:15. It is free to attend.
Thinkery Childrens Museum
My little kids love children’s museums! We have a pass to our local children’s museum which will allow us to get free admission when we travel. Check out my post on the ASTC Program and learn how you can get free admission to museums and gardens throughout the United States.
The Thinkery is located in a upscale area just northeast of the city called Mueller District. It is very safe area with many restaurants and a movie theater. The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
My little kids had a blast at the Thinkery! This museum is designed for younger kids, I would say if you are over eight it would not be a good fit.
The Mueller District
After playing at the Austin Children’s Museum, you can catch a movie or eat dinner at one of the many restaurants around. We decided to walk across the street from the museum and look at Muller Lake Park. I am so glad we did because it is full of turtles! There must be hundreds in the lake. We easily spotted 7-8 without having to look very hard.
There is also a playground that is located in this area. One thing I really liked about it is, it was very shaded! When it is 105 degrees outside this is really important! Most of the shade comes from trees.
Austin Murals
The Austin Murals consist of several paintings around downtown that you can take pictures in front of. This is super popular right now! We wanted to go around town and capture lots of fun images but there was a parade going on. Plus, children can only do so much especially when it is so hot outside.
We were able to stop at the most famous mural and take a few shots!
Best Things to Do in Austin with Kids- Hiking
If hiking is your thing, Mt Bonnell is a really fun hike! It may be one of the most beautiful places in Austin. The hike was not hard, kids would enjoy this little adventure! Mt. Bonnell is the highest point in Austin at 775 ft. The overlook is worth the climb!
We were able to hike this and I would suggest doing this in the winter when the temperatures are much cooler than summer.
Nearby is Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve which is known for having peacocks roam around!
Congress Bridge and Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake is just south of downtown. It is a great place for recreational activities such as kayaking. If your kids are older this would be a really fun activity. There are also bike rentals all along the lake and paths to ride them on.
A really cool place to visit at sunset is Congress Bat Bridge. Hundreds of Mexican Free Tailed bats fly around! The best time to see these bats are from early March until early fall. Be sure to face east as that is where the bats fly out from under the bridge. This is one of the best things to do in Austin with kids!
Time for the Show
As the sunsets and the bats begin to fly out from under the bridge it really seems like they are putting on a show. Usually, this begins right at sunset and can even last until 9:45 p.m. The duration of the show can be up to 45 minutes. Just a word of advice, be sure to arrive early to get a parking spot. It can get very crowded!
Some people even like to rent kayaks, paddle boards, canoes, or water bikes to watch the show. There is also the option to view the bats from a river boat cruise, the price is very reasonable. It is an experience worth having! The sunsets are beautiful and the show is fantastic!
Just a side note: We stopped at a park along the lake and I felt a little uncomfortable, there were some interesting people in the area, so just be aware and keep your kids close!
Austin Texas State Capital Building
The Texas State Capital Building is beautiful. If you can get a tour of it go for it. Capital tours are available 8:30 a.m. -4:30 p.m. Monday -Friday. On Saturday the times are 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
These tours are free and last about 30 minutes. There are specialty tours offered at certain times during the week such as Women in Texas History and Hero’s of the Texas Revolution. Each month there may be more offered you can check by going to the Texas State Website.
Driving by and seeing it from your car may be all your little kids can handle and I think that is just fine as well! It still qualifies for the best things to do in Austin with kids list!
Plan your trip to Austin, Texas!
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Austin, Texas. As you can see there are many things to do in Austin with kids! If you are looking for a little weekend getaway from Austin there are so many fun areas nearby!
Facebook Community
If you have any questions join our Facebook Community! The community is designed to help each other out when planning trips!
Carrie
February 13, 2019 2:24 pmThank you for sharing our Austin mural guide!
More color, please!
Carrie
http://www.carriecolbert.com
Pam
August 22, 2019 1:06 pmI haven’t been to Austin yet but would love to visit. This is a great post full of fun things I could do with the kids too! Thanks for sharing.
Lisa
August 22, 2019 10:25 pmAustin may be the most beautiful part of the state!
Keagan
August 22, 2019 1:46 pmWow who knew there was such much kids friendly things to do in Austin.
Lisa
August 22, 2019 10:24 pmI know right!
Jordan
August 22, 2019 6:10 pmI love the hiking and outdoor activities. Definitely adding Austin to my bucket list!
Lisa
August 22, 2019 10:23 pmThat hike is lovely and there is a state park nearby called McKinney state park that is great hiking as well!
kmf
August 22, 2019 7:28 pmLove Austin, but it’s been way too long…hoping to make it there in October with my friends. Love the pics…especially the street art.
Lisa
August 22, 2019 10:22 pmThe Austin Murals are really cool, I wish we could have seen more but the kids were ready to go back!
Heather
August 22, 2019 7:41 pmThanks for sharing, I love learning about new cities. It looks like you had fun and it was only made better by seeing family!
Lisa
August 22, 2019 10:21 pmThat was the best part!
Susan Whitehead
August 22, 2019 9:26 pmI love checking out different children’s museums. Each one is so unique. If we’re ever in Austin, we’ll have to check this one out.
Lisa
August 22, 2019 10:21 pmI love children’s museums too!
jen
August 22, 2019 9:56 pmLisa, this looks like a great trip! I can’t believe how many things you packed in!
Lisa
August 22, 2019 10:20 pmWe did do a lot of them but I have been to Austin so many times some we have done in the past!
Missy
August 23, 2019 9:01 amLove that there are so many Museums. I would visit the Museums and Gardens.
Lisa
August 24, 2019 4:25 pmI love museums too!
Tricia Snow
August 23, 2019 1:53 pmAustin is definitely on my bucket list! Thanks for the tips!
Lisa
August 24, 2019 4:24 pmNo problem, I hope you get the chance!
Stacey Billingsley
August 23, 2019 3:01 pmIt’s been awhile since I’ve been to Austin, and this post makes me want to go back! I remember seeing the bats come out from Congress Bridge. So cool. I’d really like to visit the Texas State History Museum. That looks like my kind of place. I should plan a trip soon!
Lisa
August 24, 2019 4:24 pmWe get to visit Austin frequently because of family!
Jennifer |Me and My Traveling Hat
August 23, 2019 5:53 pmNever been to Austin but it’s on our short list.
Thank you for sharing great information!
Lisa
August 24, 2019 4:23 pmyour welcome!
Taci- Life Beyond Zebra
August 23, 2019 8:46 pmI haven’t been to Austin yet. It looks really cool. It’s strange because I have been some other Texas cities and they all have the same mural! I have a photo of me in front of the one in marfa!
Lisa
August 24, 2019 4:23 pmThere are lots of murals to tour maybe it is a state thing!
Amanda
August 23, 2019 10:24 pmI haven’t been, yet! Looks like there’s a lot of family sun things to do in Austin. We are excited to visit soon.
Lisa
August 24, 2019 4:22 pmWe found so really cool things to do!
Nicole Cruze
August 23, 2019 11:25 pmI’ve always wanted to visit Austin!
Lisa
August 24, 2019 4:22 pmIt is a fun little trip!
Leeanne
August 24, 2019 6:48 pmMy kids love children’s museums as well. And like you, we’ve used ours while traveling. In fact, the Vancouver Children’s museum is quite expensive but because I showed our pass, we got in for free. It was awesome. We will need to check out the Tinkery as well, that looks so great.
Lisa
August 26, 2019 10:35 amTexas is my other favorite state starting with “T” LOL. I lived in San Antonio a few years back and only made it to Austin to fly out. I missed seeing so much. Thank you for sharing this amazing amount of wealth on things to do. We are planning trips for next year and Austin just made the list. Can’t wait to visit Lady Bird Lake and see the Murals!
Lisa
August 26, 2019 2:14 pmI think eating is Austin is the best, the murals are really cool too!
Karie
August 26, 2019 11:52 amWow you came up with a bunch of stuff. When I had searched I didn’t find much to do.
Lisa
August 26, 2019 2:13 pmMy sister has lived in the area for 17 years, so we have been many times and done a lot of fun things over the years!
Maria
August 26, 2019 12:05 pmThanks for all the info, looks like you could fill a whole lot of time with all these fun things!
Lisa
August 26, 2019 2:12 pmWe like to travel like crazy people and do as much as possible!
Stacy
August 26, 2019 12:52 pmWow. So many great things to do. Thanks for sharing. I’ve not been to Austin, but it’s on my list for sure!
Lisa
August 26, 2019 2:11 pmIt is a fun place to visit!
Angela
August 26, 2019 1:43 pmSo many great things to do – you need a week! I love the daily schedules you have here – taco tour – yes please!
Lisa
August 26, 2019 2:11 pmYes, the taco tour is a must!
Carol
August 26, 2019 1:55 pmI’ve only been to Austin once, but it looks like I missed all the good spots! Thanks for sharing the details. I would love to visit again!
Lisa
August 26, 2019 2:10 pmFor sure! We have gone so many times and I feel like there is still things I haven’t seen!
Matt Epley
August 26, 2019 2:58 pmI’ve yet to travel to Austin, but I’ll refer to this post before I do. So many details, and bravo on the table of contents. Great idea! Just like a Wikipedia page.
Lisa
August 26, 2019 4:21 pmThanks!
Akiko
August 26, 2019 4:25 pmLooks like Austin has so many fun things to do for the whole family! I have to make a trip down there someday soon! As always, great post with so many helpful tips!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 1:02 pmThanks!
Candy K
August 26, 2019 6:39 pmWe went to Austin a few years ago but only got to spend about half a day there. We really need to go back after seeing all the great things to do!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 1:02 pmI feel like Austin just looks like any city, but there are some hidden gems to find!
Jane
August 26, 2019 8:03 pmWhat a comprehensive guide Lisa! It really covered the main points of interests for people with varied interests and for families as well. I love the view of Mt Bonnell. I can imagine hiking there before sunrise, the view must be epic!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 1:01 pmI really loved hiking Mt. Bonnell, I wouldn’t do it in the summer!
Jen
August 26, 2019 8:06 pmThanks for all these great suggestions for traveling here! I will definitely reference this post before visiting! Thanks for sharing.
Lisa
August 28, 2019 1:00 pmNo problem, I hope it helps you plan!
Leigh Ann
August 26, 2019 8:35 pmI’ve never been to Austin and had no idea it had a botanical garden. Will have to put it on my places to visit!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 1:00 pmAustin, is a fun place to visit!
Suzan
August 27, 2019 5:40 amNice list for those with kids! This city has so much to offer over and above the great music scene!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 12:58 pmYes, there are a lot of fun activities to do in Austin!
Ramae
August 27, 2019 8:39 amI am tentatively planning a trip to Austin. My daughters go to school in Waco, and I would love to visit Austin while I’m there. I think that’s the only city in TX that I would really enjoy, being from MN. A friend of mine went to the Austin City Limits Music Festival and said it was amazing!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 12:57 pmWaco is really fun with Magnolia silos and bakery! Austin has some great adult vibes, it is more known for 6th street and nightlife.
Cindy
August 27, 2019 9:29 amI love Austin! So many things to see and do there. I’ve not visited the botanical garden yet and I’d love to!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 12:55 pmZilker Park is so big it would take a lot of time to fit everything in in one day!
Malia
August 27, 2019 9:56 amFantastic family tips! One more to add, we love Amy’s Ice Cream whenever we visit Austin! The Mexican Vanilla flavor is incredible. We haven’t hit the museums or Barton Springs Pool yet, so we’ll have to check those out next time!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 12:54 pmOh yes, Amy’s Ice Cream is amazing! I didn’t list too much food on this post but that is my favorite thing to do in Austin, EAT!
Kendra
August 27, 2019 10:24 amAwesome! Something for everyone! I love that Children’s Museum, and the Botanic Gardens sounds amazing and super affordable!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 12:53 pmYes it is really fun city to visit!
Cynthia
August 27, 2019 7:08 pmMy kids would love the Thinkery and Barton Springs Pool. Looks like a great place for a family vacation!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 12:52 pmI think you could have a great family vacation in this area!
Kat Califf
August 27, 2019 8:39 pmI’ve always wanted to visit Austin and now I want to even more!
Lisa
August 28, 2019 12:52 pmThat is how I feel anytime I am reading new blog post from different people! I always want to go and see awesome places I have never been before!
Jennifer Morrison
August 27, 2019 10:53 pmThis looks like so much fun! I think the Barton Springs Pool looks like it would be so refreshing! And the children’s activity museum. I would definitely love to take my grandkids there.
Lisa
August 28, 2019 12:51 pmBarton Springs pool is a neat place! The children’s museum was fun for my littles!