10 Best Family Activities in Austin, TX
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10 Best Family Activities: Build Memories to Last a Lifetime in Austin, Texas
By Krissy Mayse, Local Expert, Austin
Ah....quality time.... Whether it's "Are we there yet?" or "Tommy needs to go to the bathroom AGAIN," you'll find that our family and children's activities are interesting, informative and offer the best of modern conveniences. We've tried to provide you with ideas that are not only fun but that are also friendly to a family's budget.
These days, family time is so much different than 20 or 30 years ago. You once considered a night of monopoly as family 'game night.' Well, these days, game night is just as likely to at the Main Event playing multiple rounds of glow in the dark mini golf or shooting each other with multiple... Read more »
1- Type: Family Friendly, Outdoor Activities, Zoos
- Neighborhood: West Austin
Local Expert Tip: "Parking is free. No one is admitted to the Zoo after 4:30 p.m., but the grounds do not close until 5:30 p.m."
2- Type: Architecture, Family Friendly, Historic Sites, Outdoor Activities, Sightseeing
- Neighborhood: Downtown
Local Expert Tip: "Tours are available year-round. They do not tour on Mondays/Wednesdays. Open (weather permitting): Tuesday and Thursday through Sunday. (Closed on major holidays: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Easter Sunday) "
3- Type: Attractions, Family Friendly, Tours and Excursions
- Neighborhood: Cedar Park
Local Expert Tip: "The trip lasts about three hours. Remember to check the website for specifics on special events and theme trips. Choose the cars with A/C in the summer."
4- Type: Family Friendly, Historic Sites, Outdoor Activities
- Neighborhood: Downtown
Local Expert Tip: "Arrive 15-30 minutes early as the tour guides are very intent on leaving right on the dot."
5Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
- Type: Attractions, Family Friendly, Gardens
- Neighborhood: South Austin
Local Expert Tip: "Remember that after July, there will not be as many flowers in bloom but there are still a variety of sites to see. Plus, the gift shop is a favorite of many as it contains unique Texas gifts and things related to nature."
6- Type: Active, Attractions, Family Friendly, Outdoor Activities, Parks, Relaxing
- Neighborhood: North Austin
Local Expert Tip: "Start at the intersection of Hairy Man Road and Great Oaks Trail. Pack a picnic lunch in a backpack and stop at one of the many parks along the way to enjoy a picnic and quality time with the family."
7- Type: Active, Attractions, Family Friendly, Relaxing, Sightseeing, Tours and Excursions
- Neighborhood: Hyde Park
Local Expert Tip: "TXBT also offers special pricing for its Facebook friends so be sure to visit their fan page and click that 'Like' button!"
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- Type: Children's Museums, Museums
- Neighborhood: Downtown
Local Expert Tip: "If you prefer to visit when it's less crowded the museum recommends 'No Tour Tuesdays.' This is a time when the museum is open just for families and doesn't offer a guided tour."
9- Type: Gardens
- Neighborhood: Barton Springs District
Local Expert Tip: "Like Austin itself, the gardens are dog friendly. Grab your canine companion, a leash and you're all set."
10Austin Nature and Science Center
- Type: Family Friendly, Museums, Science Museums, Zoos
- Neighborhood: Barton Springs District
Local Expert Tip: "Thumbs up for young children! Highly recommended."
