Family Friendly Activities in Austin with Kids
Austin Adventures With Kids: Our Family Favorites
Tired of Googling “things to do with kids in Austin” and getting the same three parks and a zoo? Same. This isn’t one of those lists written by someone who’s never actually done these with a kid in tow. I’m a local photographer and mom sharing our real favorites… the ones worth the car seat struggle. Every link below takes you to a blog post with actual tips, honest opinions, and photos I took myself (because, hi, that’s my job).
I’m constantly adding new and fun places we’ve explored to the list! Check back to see where we go next!
1. Wonderspaces Austin With Kids
📍1205 Sheldon Cove Unit 2-A, Austin, TX 78753
💵 $$ Tickets required
⏱️ About 1 hour
📝 Why We Loved It: Immersive art installations that had my 6-year-old wide-eyed.
2. Exploring the Austin Nature & Science Center With Kids
📍2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746
💵 Free!
⏱️ 2-3 hours
📝 Why We Loved It: Hands-on exhibits, wildlife viewing, and interactive play areas make it a perfect weekday outing for curious kids.
3. Bull Creek District Park: Creek Hiking & Splashing
📍6701 Lakewood Dr, Austin, TX 78731
💵 Free!
⏱️ 1 – ? Easy to spend an hour or half-day here.
📝 Why We Loved It: Fun creek for splashing and cooling off.
4. Texas Science & Natural History Museum With Kids
📍2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746
💵 ~$15–20 per person or Free on certain days
⏱️ 2-3 hours
📝 Why We Loved It: Dinos, fossils, and interactive exhibits for the kids.
5. Austin Public Library: Library Passport Adventure
📍Various Branch Locations (21)
💵 Free!
⏱️ 1 – ? Easy to spend an hour or half-day here.
📝 Why We Loved It: Free Programming, Books, & a Library Passport… what’s not to love?
6. Liz Carpenter Splash Pad With Kids
📍1000 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
💵 Free! ($ Parking)
⏱️ 1 – ? Easy to spend an hour or half-day here.
📝 Why We Loved It: Free splash pad fun with skyline views and it lights up at night for extra magic.
Want to Explore Austin & Capture Your Family’s Story?
If you love these kid-friendly Austin spots but want to skip the selfie chaos, I’m here for you. As a local family and senior photographer, I specialize in capturing real moments… the messy, the magical, and everything in between.
Ready to make some memories (and get photos that actually show who you are)?
