One of the greatest things about Austin is its versatility. In addition to our rockin’ music scene, unique culture and mouth-watering food, there’s also a ton of fun things to do with the little ones. This is one of the many reasons why Austin was recently named the best city for young families.
So, whether you have kids or are just a big kid at heart, here are some of the best fun Austin things to do with kids:
Trampoline Parks
Several locations
Good for: All ages (depending on location)
Whether it’s at Jumpoline Park, Urban Air Tramploine Park, Jump! Gynmatics or Jump Street, there are plenty of indoor trampoline parks all over Austin for kids of all ages to enjoy. Trampoline parks are a great way to get some exercise and have a blast. Plus, parents can enjoy these parks just as much as the kiddos.
Thinkery
1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723
Good for: All ages (Children under 23 months get in for free!)
While this place boasts plenty of activities for both children and parents, kids between two and eleven years old may get the biggest kick out of the Thinkery. This interactive space will have your little ones thinking, playing, and experimenting—and having a blast while doing so! There is a special toddlers-only area where tiny tykes can explore and crawl; an outdoor playground for all ages; and a ton of other learning-centered activities and events.
Austin Nature & Science Center
2389 Stratford Drive, Austin, TX 78746
Good for: All ages
Part dinosaur dig, part zoo, and part nature exhibit, the Austin Nature & Science is a whole lot of fun for all ages. Topics and programs cover biology, astronomy, paleontology and more. The best part? It’s free! We recommend packing a picnic and making it a full day in the park.
Panic/Escape Rooms
Several locations
Good for: Ages 10+ (may vary depending on location)
If you’re looking for something to do that’s both challenging and thrilling, then Austin’s many panic and escape rooms may be your key to a brain-teasing good time. The basic premise of any panic/escape room is this: You’re stuck in a room and have a certain amount of time to solve puzzles in order to escape. While this may sound scary, it’s more of a challenging brain-game than anything else (and, don’t worry, they’ll still let you out even if you don’t solve the puzzles in time). Some of the places to check include: Austin Panic Room, 11th Hour Escape, Perplexium – Live Escape Challenge, Puzzle Room, and Maze Rooms Austin.
Note: The scary factor may range depending on the business, we recommend calling and asking about what ages are suitable to bring along before going.
Barton Springs Pool
2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Good for: All ages
This local favorite is open year round and only $4 for residents! The pool at Barton Springs is natural and spring fed, keeping it an even 68 degrees no matter how hot or cold the day is. Kids will love splashing around in the water and jumping off the wooden diving board.
There are also a ton of other spots around Barton Springs to explore. If you don’t want to shell out the $4 entrance fee, consider bringing some inner tubes and drifting along with the current in the Barton Spring Spillway. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could take the kids on a nature walk to explore the Upper Barton Springs.
Austin Aquarium
13530 N Hwy 183, Ste 101, Austin, TX 78750
Good for: All ages
There are a variety of animals and creatures to observe and interact with at the Austin Aquarium. Feeding the koi, sharks, and stingrays is a must, as is getting to go into the aviary with hundreds of birds.
Congress Avenue Bridge – Bat Conservational International
100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Good for: All ages
While in any other town taking the kids to go see a bridge may seem boring, we can assure you that everything here in Austin is more than what it seems. The Congress Avenue Bridge is actually home to the largest colony of bats in North America—nearly 1.5 million bats call this structure their home. In the summer months, crowds of people flock to the bridge to watch the hypnotic and fascinating flight patterns of the bats each night—and kids, especially, get a huge kick out of the experience.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
Good for: All ages
The steady amount of rain Austin receives in the winter and fall create the perfect conditions for an impressive amount of wildflowers to blossom throughout the year. And while wildflowers are the main attraction of this center, there’s more to this place than that. Children and adults can also enjoy the arboretum, variety of gardens, kid’s center and more.
Austin Zoo
10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736
Good for: All ages
The Austin Zoo is not your typical zoo. In fact, it’s a non-profit rescue and rehabilitation center for all the animals. The laid-back atmosphere here makes it for a fun and stress-free day spent in the company of lions, tigers, and bears.
From toddlers to teenagers, our hip city has tons of fun activities and things to do that the whole family will enjoy. Get on out there and have fun!
