60 Things to do in Austin, Texas: The Ultimate Travel Guide

60 Things to do in Austin, Texas The Ultimate Travel Guide

Austin is a stunning city located in Central Texas. Its unique landscapes with rolling hills, rivers, and lakes make the city more beautiful. And when the natural beauty combines with the vibrant city life, you’ll find a lot of things to do in Austin, Texas. Especially the Lady Bird Lake, Austin Murals, Zilker Park, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Circuit of Americas, and delicious Austin foods are more highlighted.

Although Austin is the smallest city in Texas, it is filled with new and more exciting things everywhere. Enjoyable live music, delicious foods, adventure activities, and unique culture are the most highlighted things in Austin.

Here’s the list of the 60 best things to do in Austin, Texas. 

Things to do in Austin, Texas

1. Enjoy Time in the Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake is the most beautiful place in Austin. Just imagine a lake in the middle of a busy city with glittering water and tree-lined shores. That is exactly what Lady Bird Lake looks like.

Lady Bird Lake Things to do in Austin
Lady Bird Lake

The most important thing is it offers you numerous entertaining outdoor activities on the water and off the water. And for example, wet activities like cruise, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. (Keep in mind, the lake authority does not allow you to ride motorized boats)

On the other hand, if you like dry activities, just try biking, hiking, and walking since Lady Bird Lake surrounds several trails.

Get more information from the above official website link. (cool things to do in Austin)

Greetings from the Austin Murals

This is an awesome selfie spot for tourists. Locating in the middle of the city, you can see a painted wall and written “Greetings from Austin.” 

Visit Greetings from the Austin Murals
Austin Murals

Every tourist attracts to this life-sized mural to take photos as a memory of their Austin tour. Inside the paint, all the highlighted landmarks of the city are drawn. Actually, it is a major reason to attract people to this mural. 

Once you are done with selfies, you can step inside Roadhouse Relics Studio. You can find the owner of this mural and all the other signs, art prints, and designs of him. And you can buy them as souvenirs. (things to do in Austin for art lovers) 

Address: 1720 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704, United States  Phone: +1 512-442-6366

Visit Zilker Park and Zilker Botanical Garden

Texas considers as one of the most beautiful states in the USA. As I said to you earlier, Austin has all of those natural beauty features with different landscapes. Zilker Park is an ideal example of that. 

It contains waterfalls, hills covered with stunning wildflowers, natural walking and hiking trails, and multiple lakes. Yes, everything is included in Zilker Park within the busy Austin city. 

I can’t even finish mentioning the list of things to do in this park. Yes, there are plenty of things. Like, just walking to discover the park, cycling, hiking, paddling, boating, and kayaking. They are the highlighted outdoor activities. 

Zilker Park Austin TX
Zilker Park

Aside from them, the lakes inside the park have crystal clear water as they are spring-fed. And you can swim through this clean water. For example, Barton Springs Pool is the fourth largest spring in Texas, and it is located inside Zilker Park. 

The Barton Springs Pool has crystal clear, natural, and warm water (20ºC to 23ºC). So, you can swim in this pool throughout the year. Actually, many Austins have learned to swim from this natural pool. 

Address: 2207 Lou Neff Rd, Austin, TX 78746, United States

Another stunning place is the Zilker Botanical Garden. There are flowers, nice landscapes, and stress-releasing natural views in this garden. 

Zilker Botanical Garden in Austin
Zilker Botanical Garden

Most tourists and locals are attracted to Zilker Park because of its natural beauty and hosts public events like live musical shows, music festivals, art exhibitions, and other commercial activities. Check the above link to know the event dates. (enjoyable things to do in Austin)

So, do not try to miss this place.  

Address: 2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746, United States

Planning to visit Arizona?? Do not miss this 17 Amazing Arizona Beaches Guide

Participate in Austin City Limits Music Festival

As I mentioned above, Zilker hosts music festivals. For example, Austin City Limits (ACL) is such an awesome music festival in Zilker Park. It normally happens on a three days weekend at the beginning of October. And it hosts every type of music like hip hop, rock, country, indie, and electronic through eight big stages. 

Participate in Austin City Limits Music Festival
Austin City Limits Music Festival

Not only music but the festival has delicious foods as well. So, you can enjoy music while having tasty foods with your loved ones. 

Actually, Austin City Limits is famous as it is the longest-running music TV show in the USA. And it offers a platform to perform by famous music legends as well as new bees. You can watch how this show happens and how the artists perform in the show if you visit the Moody Theater near Zilker Park. (entertaining things to do in Austin)

Visit Moody Theater 

This is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Austin. Participating in Austin City Limits (ACL) Live at Moody Theater is something you should not miss in Austin. 

Moody Theater in Austin City Limits
Moody Theater

They host more than 100 concerts annually. Since it has a capacity for 2750 visitors, no need to worry about the space. But, if you want to catch an ACL, you have to get passes from the show’s website. So, check this link to know the calendar. (entertaining things to do in Austin)   

Address: 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701, United States  

Visit Blazer Tag Adventure Center

Blazer Tag Adventure Center in Austin is more popular in the wintertime. So if you are searching for something to do in the winter, this is the ideal thing: it is the largest laser tag arena in the state. 

You may feel like you are in a real video game because it is different from a usual laser tag game arena. Instead, it offers you amazing tactical landscapes with three floors, towers, corridors, ramps, and bridges.

Blazer Tag Adventure Center
Blazer Tag Adventure Center

All you have to do is to fight against the other team and win. Then, after winning the game, you can celebrate the victory by having delicious pizzas, burgers, nachos, funnel cakes, cheese sticks like foods from its cafeteria. 

This is one of the best entertainment spots in Texas. So, I highly recommend you visit this place on your Austin tour. (adventurous things to do in Austin)

Address: 1701 W Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX 78704, United States Phone: +1 512-462-0202

Take a Food Tour in Austin

One of my favorite things to do in Austin is food hunting as the city has more incredible restaurants. You can find tacos, BBQs, burgers like staple foods in these restaurants. And also, they offer you various foods from all over the world. 

Food Tour in Austin
Food Tour in Austin

For example, Terry Black’s BBQ offers you uniquely flavored briskets, sandwiches, sides, salads, drinks, and desserts. 

Address: 1003 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States

On the other hand, Austin has more than 1000 food trucks everywhere. Trust me; they are delicious and high quality with a transparent cooking environment. You can choose any kind of food truck as there are BBQ food trucks, taco trucks, pizza trucks, burger trucks, and many more. 

Since I love tacos, I recommend Veracruz All Natural Mexican Food Truck in Austin. I hope you’ll love those delicious tacos. You can even order online through the above link. 

Visit the Austin Nature and Science Center

Austin Nature and Science Center is a good place to visit with your kids. But, it offers very family-friendly activities that can enjoy by all ages. Actually, this is a learning station for kids. They can observe wildlife, birds, rocks, dig fossils, and gemstones like things in this science center. 

Austin Nature and Science Center
Austin Nature and Science Center

And the most important thing is, this place is not just for observing and listening to a guide. It is about doing and learning things. That’s why you must visit this place with your kids. (relaxing things to do in Austin) 

Address: 2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746, United States  Phone: +1 512-974-3888

Visit the Circuit of the Americas

Circuit of the Americas was initially built as a professional racetrack. But, now it has an observation tower, amphitheater, various sports facilities that anyone can experience. 

Circuit of the Americas Austin TX
Circuit of the Americas

You can catch the Formula One Grand Prix in the wintertime, while you can watch IndyCar Classics in the spring. Not only them, but you can also watch rugby matches, go-kart races, and musical concerts that host by the circuit. For that, you must check their schedule before visiting. So, click the above link. (exciting things to do in Austin)

Address: 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617, United States  Phone: +1 512-301-6600

Visit Texas State Capitol

Texas State Capitol is the most iconic landmark in the city. Yes, it is high more than 300 feet, and bigger than the Washington D.C. Capitol. And obviously, this is the most valuable seat of government in Texas. 

Texas State Capitol Austin
Texas State Capitol

The eye-catching part of it is the unique architecture. If you like, you can visit the building and observe both architecture and political activities. However, it is totally worth visiting the Texas State Capitol in Austin. 

Address: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States Phone: +1 512-463-4630

Visit Congress Avenue Bridge

Another iconic landmark in the city is Congress Avenue Bridge, as it offers you stunning city views with the blue sky. But, now I’m going to tell you a completely different story. 

Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin
Congress Avenue Bridge

Congress Avenue Bridge provides the home for the largest bat colony in the whole state. So, you can experience the way they come out together, like in horror movies and cartoons. And I know they smell terrible. But, it is a totally worth catch that Austin bats scene when you are in the town. (scenic things to do in Austin)

Just check the reviews of TripAdvisor

Address: Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704, United States  Phone: +1 512-364-0759

Enjoy time at Hippie Hollow Park

Well, I’m going to tell you a secret. Hippie Hollow Park is an entertaining non-official nude beach in Austin. So, plenty of interested crowds attract this beach for socializing, sunbathing, partying, and swimming purposes. 

Hippie Hollow Park, Austin
Hippie Hollow Park

Locating on the rocky shores in Comanche Trail, the hippies attract here since the 70s. So, it is not a new thing. And wearing clothes is optional, and it is the most highlighted rule on Hippie Hollow Beach. (relaxing things to do in Austin) 

Address: 7000 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732, United States Phone: +1 512-854-7275

Visit the Texas Memorial Museum

Texas Memorial Museum is a place that highlights and appreciates natural science. Because its exhibits, displays, and programs are dedicated to zoology, geology, ichthyology, herpetology, and paleontology. Therefore, you can see well-preserved fossils, dinosaur bones, and other rare things inside glass displays. 

Texas Memorial Museum
Texas Memorial Museum

Since this museum is located in the world-famous University of Texas, it hosts some other events. Like wildlife feeding events. 

However, visiting the Texas Memorial Museum is one of the best things to do in Austin with your kids. 

Address: 2400 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78705, United States  Phone: +1 512-471-1604

Visit Mckinney Falls State Park

Do you like water activities? Me too. Then, here’s the ideal destination for you. Mckinney Falls State Park. It is stunning, natural, famous, and adventurous. Actually, this is one of the top tourist hot spots in Austin. 

Mckinney Falls State Park Austin Texas
Mckinney Falls State Park

As you can swim and do other water activities, people attract here in the summertime to avoid high temperatures in Texas. Other than just seeing the natural beauty of the Mckinney Falls State Park, there are so many things to do.

Like you can plan for paddleboarding, camping, fishing, biking, hiking, picnicking, stargazing, geocaching, and wildlife watching. 

And there are around 80 campgrounds with all the amenities for camp lovers. You can check for the availability of them through the above link. 

So, do not miss this natural beauty on your Austin tour. (unique things to do in Austin)

Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744, United States  Phone: +1 512-243-1643

Participate in Austin City Limits Music Festival

Just like Nashville, Austin is also famous for live music. Therefore the city calls the “Live Music Capital of the world.” And Austin City Limits Music Festival is a great chance for you to experience the best live music shows. 

Austin City Limits Music Festival
Austin City Limits Music Festival

This annual music festival offers you live performances of rock, jazz, country, hip hop genres. Starting from 10 am, it runs till 10 pm. Besides music, the festival offers you delicious food, drinks, art and craft displays, game zones, and many more entertaining things. 

If you are a music lover, do not try to miss this. Just book your tickets. (entertaining things to do in Austin) 

Visit Emma Long Metropolitan Park

As I said to you earlier, there are plenty of lakes and ponds in this city. But, it is tough to find a good one for swimming. But, don’t worry, Emma Long Metropolitan Park has it.

Actually, not only swimming, this park offers you a chance to camping, biking, sightseeing, biking, walking, and picnicking like outdoor activities. 

Emma Long Metropolitan Park Austin Texas
Emma Long Metropolitan Park

But, this park is more famous for water activities. Because it has the water is crystal clear and an awesome shoreline with soft sand. So, you and your family members can swim, ride boats, fishing, observe different fish, natives birds, and build sandcastles on the stunning shoreline.

You may feel like you are on a Florida beach. Or you can see other dry activities as well. However, Emma Long Metropolitan Park is a place filled with plenty of adventures for your whole family.  

Address: 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730, United States Phone: +1 512-974-1831

Visit Austin Visitor Center

Austin Visitor Center is a place that offers all the travel information about the city. As the people in southern areas are famous for hospitality, anyone will warmly greet you and help you to get information. 

If you are looking for information on major attractions, secluded places, events, and programs like things, this is the first place you must visit. This center’s staff members really help you grab information on tour packages (food tours, adventure tours). 

And most importantly, they show you how to avoid probable frauds and traps for tourists. Another thing about Austin Visitor Center is, it has souvenirs and gifts that you can purchase. 

Address: 602 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701, United States  Phone: +1 512-478-0098

Visit Sculpture Falls

Sculpture Falls is a stunning natural destination in Austin. And I don’t know why. But, still, it is a secluded or a hidden gem in the city. Trust me; this is a heavenly, beautiful place to visit. 

Sculpture Falls Austin Texas
Sculpture Falls

The reason to say like that is, Sculpture Falls is surrounded by green trees, lush forests, mini waterfalls, and tide pools. Yes, there are several mini-waterfalls around the main falls. Therefore, I noticed many tourists fail to identify which one is the Sculpture Falls. So, do not forget to follow the google map location to catch it. 

However, all the falls, pools, and the surrounding in this place are superb.

The most important feature of these waterfalls is they are more horizontal rather than vertical. Therefore, they have created little swimming pools everywhere. Since you have to take a little effort to reach Sculpture Falls, you can cool down the body by dipping in these waterfalls. 

This secret place offers you a great chance to escape from the busy city life for a while. So, just try it. (unique things to do in Austin)

Address: Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, Austin, TX 78746, United States 

Visit Elizabeth Ney Museum

Have you heard about Elizabeth Ney? She was a great German-American sculptor who was lived the first half of the life in Germany and the other half in Austin, Texas. So, therefore, you can see some of her artworks in Austin. 

Elizabeth Ney Museum Austin TX
Elizabeth Ney Museum

 Her artworks still shine in Elizebeth Ney Museum, US Capitol Building, and Smithsonian Museum-like places. And the artworks include attractive fountains, statues, and ornaments like things. 

Especially, there are many artworks displayed in Elizabeth Ney Museum. Further, it contains her life story as well. Since this is totally a free place to visit, I think you should not miss it. 

Address: 304 E 44th St, Austin, TX 78751, United States  Phone: +1 512-974-1625

Visit Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve

Another superb natural place in Austin is Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve. It considers as one of the last parts of the city that is well preserved and untouched by people. So, if you visit there, you can definitely catch various native fauna and flora with stunning natural views. 

Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve Austin
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve

Waterfalls are falling over the rocks; amazing hiking trails run through cliffs; you can observe many endangered animal species on the way. Yes, you can experience all of these insane things from Wild Basin. 

But, strictly keep in mind to follow the nature protection guidelines and rules. I think it is our biggest responsibility. (unique things to do in Austin)

Address: 805 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746, United States  Phone: +1 512-327-7622

Visit the Cathedral of Saint Mary

Having Irish Catholic roots, the Cathedral of Saint Mary is one of the top attractions in the city. As it is also one of the oldest churches in Austin, history runs to the 1800s. And still, it has that classical and rich heritage look. 

Cathedral of Saint Mary Austin TX
Cathedral of Saint Mary

Due to the multinational origin of this church, it attracts many Irish, Scottish, and Austin visitors. Therefore, you don’t need to wait until Christmas to enjoy the cathedral. Because it always hosts musical events and concerts by various catholic communities. 

Other than the events, you can watch the stunning architectural views of this cathedral. Its gothic architecture rooted towers, crosses, rose windows, spires, and interior domes are really impressive. 

So, I beg you not to miss the Cathedral of Saint Mary when you are in Austin. (relaxing things to do in Austin)

Address: 203 E 10th St, Austin, TX 78701, United States  Phone: +1 512-476-6182

Visit Uncommon Objects

Uncommon Objects? Seriously, is it a shop? 

That was my first question when I heard this name. And it is true. Uncommon Objects is a store in Austin that contains anything that exists on the earth. I will mention some items to get an idea.   

Uncommon Objects Austin Texas
Uncommon Objects

Things like guitars, carnival masks, purses, marble statues, music boxes, perfumes, old jewelry, decorative tins, and many mysterious artifacts. 

Yeah, I know; it sounds a bit weird. But, trust me. It is more fun as you can purchase these unique items for low prices. Actually, it is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Austin. 

Address: 1602 Fortview Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States  Phone: +1 512-442-4000

Visit Snake Island

Snake Island is also an awesome hidden island in Austin. Surprisingly some residents don’t know about this island. There are no maps and proper directions to reach this island; here’s the address: Ann and Royal Butler Hike and Bike Trail, Austin, TX 78741, USA. 

Snake Island in Austin Texas
Snake Island

It is just a small, natural, and untouched island near Lady Bird Lake in Austin. Although it is not recognized as an official park, it is not illegal to visit. Of course, you must visit this unique place for picnicking, swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, camping, or just walking around. 

Since it never gets crowded, you can spend an authentic camping life. But, on the other hand, this island is full of adventures as well. Within just 2000 square feet of land (covered with trees), it features a tree swing, rope swing,  and trapeze-like enjoyable things. 

You have to use a non-powered watercraft (just rent a kayak, SUP, or canoe) as motorboats, and swimming is not allowed in Lady Bird Lake. And the next thing is, there are no snakes. So, don’t worry about the name.   

So, visiting Snake Island (also called “Hobo Island”) is totally one of the unique things to do in Austin.    

Visit Blanton Museum of Art

The famous university, The University of Texas, includes an awesome art museum called Blanton Museum of Art. And the important feature of this museum is that it contains 18,000 artworks that represent different cultures worldwide.

Blanton Museum of Art Things to do in Austin
Blanton Museum of Art

Like European, Latin American, and contemporary American artworks, all the visitors can be proud of their cultures while seeing the exhibits. Further, it contains pre-1900 European Fine and decorative art. On the other hand, the contemporary collection has names like El Anatsui, Yayoi Kusama, Nina Katchadourian, and Natalie Frank.

And I must say that every artwork has its own story hidden behind it. So if you like to explore them, just visit this awesome museum.

Address: 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78712, United States  Phone: +1 512-471-5482

Visit Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum

Charles Umlauf is a great artist in the USA. You can see more artworks of him than any other artist in Austin. And he was so generous. The reason to say like that is, he has donated his home, studio, and all the creative sculptures as a museum to the Austin visitors in 1984. (Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum)

Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum in Austin
Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum

Then, after six years, the home and garden were developed into a museum and sculpture gardens and opened to the public. As it is located on the south bank of Barton Creek, it offers you nice natural environmental views as well. But, trust me, you’ll forget that you are in the middle of a busy city. 

If I tell you something about Umlauf’s artworks, they are diverse, creative, and composed of wood, bronze, terracotta, alabaster, and marble-like elements. On the other hand, the subjects of those artworks are also diverse. (Like female nudes, religious symbols, mythological figures, animal figures, and many more)

Address: 605 Azie Morton Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States  Phone: +1 512-445-5582

Visit Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Do you love wildflowers? Well, I love them to see and smell. So, this is the place you should visit the see wildflowers in Austin. Having around 43 acres, this center was developed by American socialite Lady Bird Johnson and actress Helen Hayes in 1995. 

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Austin
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

And it contains around 1000 Texas native flora species which is great. They are recreationally grown, and it offers you awesome, Instagrammable views. You can observe various plant types like hummingbird plants, pond plants, native Texas grasses, cactus, and succulents along a four miles trail. 

I suggest you check their website to know the flower blooming times before visiting the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.  

Address: 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739, United States  Phone: +1 512-232-0100

Visit Hamilton Pool

Hamilton Pool is one of the prettiest and natural places in Austin, Texas. It is a limestone bowl with a small and stunning waterfall. And you may surely feel that this is a wonderful creation of Mother Nature. 

Because you can see the pool through the waterfall, that means you can walk behind the waterfall and take pictures of it. Isn’t that amazing? 

Hamilton Pool Austin TX
Hamilton Pool

But, keep in mind, the falls get dry during Texas’s dry periods. But, the natural pool remains the same and has crystal clear water. Locating 30 miles west of Austin, Hamilton Pool was considered a preserved natural area since 1990. 

Swimming in this pool is currently prohibited as it is not well maintained and treated. But, still, I suggest you not miss this scenic natural place. Trust me; your gallery will be filled for sure. 

Before visiting the pool, do not forget to check whether the pool preserve is opened or not. Click the above link to know it. 

Address: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620, United States  Phone: +1 512-264-2740

Visit the Historic Paramount Theater

The Historic Paramount Theater features movies and live performances in Austin since 1915. And having the capability of sitting 1,250 seats, the theater attracts world-famous recording artists, famous comedians, podcast tapings, and sketch acts. 

Historic Paramount Theater Austin TX
Historic Paramount Theater

Paramount Classic Summer Film Series is more famous all over the world. They show them in the Christmas season (like Home Alone, Wonderful Life). So, if you are in Austin, just visit this historic theater to watch a movie and see its interior. 

Address: 713 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States  Phone: +1 512-472-5470

Climb Mount Bonnell

Mount Bonnel is the ideal place for you to say goodbye to Austin. It is a small mountain that has a height of 775 feet. But, don’t worry; there are 102 stairs to climb it). And since it is the highest point of the city, you can observe all the lakes, hills, rocks, buildings with awesome panoramic views.

Climb Mount Bonnell Austin Texas
Mount Bonnell

Once you reach the top, there’s a resting area where you can have food, enjoy views, take photos, and stay until the sunset. If you feel like continuing, trust me, Mount Bonell is the best place in the city for stargazing.

Considering all of the above reasons, I highly suggest that Mount Bonnell is the perfect place to end your Austin tour.

Address: 3800 Mt Bonnell Rd, Austin, TX 78731, United States 

10 Things to do in Austin with Kids

I have already mentioned some great places to visit with kids on the above list. Apart from them, I suggest the following things to add to your bucket list.

Visit Austin Public Library

Now you may think, why is a library should be on a travel list. Yes, it is fair to think like that. But, Austin Public Library is so different from other libraries. It is an extraordinary one.

The reason to say that is, it has a rooftop garden, a big cafe, and an impressive interior. And you can see plenty of impressive local artworks on the walls. So, you can grab a book and read it in a calm, relaxing environment. (while having a cup of tea)

Austin Public Library TX
Austin Public Library

The building has six stories, and each one represents different things. Like game rooms, story rooms, demonstration areas, and hangout spaces. Actually, the library has games like chess, entertaining events for kids, teens, adults, and even senior citizens.

Therefore do not miss Austin Public Library if your kids love book hunting with entertainment. (things to do in Austin with kids)

Visit Typhoon Texas Waterpark Austin 

If you visit Austin on a hot and sunny day, Typhoon Texas is the ideal place to visit with your kids because it is a great waterpark with plenty of funny experiences. Like water rides, slides, splash pads, rafts, pools, and plastic tube fun.

Typhoon Texas Waterpark Austin 
Typhoon Texas Waterpark

Even the toddlers have some space to enjoy themselves—for example, pint-sized playgrounds, gentle jest, and streams. And for older ones, there are so many items like “The Bronc Buster” and “The Gunslinger” (plastic tubes). On the other hand, teenagers can enjoy by drifting down canals on gigantic floats and swimming pools.

So, you can wave them and be relax by sipping a cocktail or join with them to do water activities.

This amazing water park is located a few miles north of Austin and nearby a town called Pflugerville. Do not even try to miss this enjoyable place. Your kids will be thrilled.

Click the above link for reservations and more information. (things to do in Austin with kids)

Address: 18500 TX-130 Service Rd, Pflugerville, TX 78660, United States  Phone: +1 512-212-7792

Visit Austin Zoo

Austin is a great place that cares more about animals rather than visitors. As we all know, in most zoos, people don’t care more about animals. They just need to attract more visitors. But, in the case of Austin Zoo. It is totally different.

They care for and rehabilitate lions, cougars, monkeys, wolves, bears, alligators, birds, and giant tortoises like animals. Also, they have provided enough space for them to feel the freedom. So, yes, it is not a showy kind of zoo with a lot of attractions.

Austin Zoo TX
Austin Zoo

But, they offer a chance to interact with animals safely and healthily. I think it will be great news for your kids—for example, feeding giant tortoises and close observations of various animals’ habitats. Although Austin Zoo is not one of the largest zoos in Texas, it is a great place to learn about animals.

On the other hand, this place will teach your kids how to care for, love, and treat animals. Click the above link for online tickets and other information. (things to do in Austin with kids)

Address: 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736, United States Phone: +1 512-288-1490

Visit Austin Aquarium

Just like Austin Zoo, Austin Aquarium is also a place you cannot miss when you are in Austin with kids. It is home to more than a thousand sea creatures, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. Yes, you heard correctly. But, of course, it has more animals than sea creatures. But, marine life is the major attraction of this aquarium.

Austin Aquarium TX
Austin Aquarium

The aquarium has huge tanks with awesome sea creatures like glowing jellyfish and tropical fish. So, kids can take selfies and play with them. And also, they can join with special interactive programs hosts by the aquarium, like visitor feeding programs for sharks, stingrays, otters, honey beers, parakeets, and tortoises. 

Kids always love marines and animals. So, just add this to your Austin plan. (things to do in Austin with kids)

Address: 13530 US-183 #101, Austin, TX 78750, United States Phone: +1 512-222-5586

Visit Mayfield Park

Visiting Mayfield Park offers you a chance to experience ancient times as it is filled with flowers, cottages, gardens, and long and green grasses. And therefore, the place was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.  

Mayfield Park Austin TX
Mayfield Park

It has ponds filled with water lilies, and the air is also mixed with the fragrances of roses, Susans, and daisies like flowers. Yes, it is like heaven on the earth. Actually, your kids should see and experience the beauty of nature by visiting this kind of park. 

When you walk along these nice trails, huge trees provide you a cool shade. On the other hand, the most impressive sight is, you can see peacocks in Mayfield Park. They are just hanging here and there with their colorful feathers. If you are lucky enough, you may find a peacock dance. (things to do in Austin with kids)

Kids will be thrilled. So, are you still going to miss this place?

Address: 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703, United States  Phone: +1 512-974-6700

Visit Thinkery in Austin

Thinkery is the former Children’s Museum in Austin. Although the name’s changed, it still contains impressive exhibits and amazing children’s activities. Actually, the aim of this place is not just to show things to the young generation.

It is for helping the young generation to think differently. To develop their minds and to make their imagination into reality. And it contains building, molding, cooking, crafting, experimenting, and other science workshops. 

Thinkery in Austin TX
Thinkery

On the other hand, there is a playground, a spark shop with child-safe tools, and a restroom for listening to stories. So, yes, Thinkery tries to make Einstien like scientists, Davinci like artists. I think we should highly appreciate their effort.    

Another important thing is, parents are getting a chance to experience how they should support children’s dreams. So, it is totally worth visiting. (things to do in Austin with kids)

Address: 1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723, United States  Phone: +1 512-469-6200

Visit the Texas State History Museum

The Bullock Texas State Museum in Austin is also a great and educational place to visit with your kids. It is totally dedicated to the historical story of Texas state. Texas State Preservation Board is the one who handles this educational place. 

Texas State History Museum
Texas State History Museum

I think it is good to show your kids how Texas was born and highlight its history. It has many exhibits, video storylines, and programs that you can join. And most importantly, there are programs especially for kids as well. 

But, you need to check for their official website before planning the tour. (things to do in Austin with kids)

Address: 1800 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States Phone: 1 512-936-8746

Play at Peter Pan Mini-Golf

Peter Pan Mini-Golf was first opened in 1948, and it is privately owned and maintained by the Dismukes family for more than 70 years now. It is adorable, funny, and enjoyable. So, I highly recommend this place to visit with your kids. 

Peter Pan Mini-Golf Austin TX
Peter Pan Mini-Golf

Address: 1207 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States  Phone: +1 512-472-1033

Visit Austin Toy Museum

Toy Museum in Austin, Toy Joy is a funny place that contains fun and quirky toys. So, you can play and buy board games, finger traps, kaleidoscopes, lava lums, wind-up figures, and many more. Yes, it offers more traditional toys than modern things. So, the kids will be happier as they can buy their favorite souvenirs from Austin. (things to do in Austin with kids)

Austin Toy Museum TX
Austin Toy Museum

Where to Stay in Austin, TX? 

Are you looking for the best places to stay in Austin? Here are the best hotels in Austin. Just search here and find the ideal one for your budget.


Booking.com


 

Things to do in Austin