Where Is the Liz Carpenter Splash Pad?
Address: 1000 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
This splash pad is part of Butler Park in the Children’s Alliance Garden and is not really visible from the road or park entrance.
Parking and Accessibility Tips
Where to park
There are a few different options for where to park at this splash pad. There is a variety of parking all around the park. The most popular being at the address I listed above, but it is a small parking lot and a busy park. You do have to pay street parking there unless it’s a Sunday in which all metered street type parking is free that day.
My go to favorite parking is at the Palmer Event Center Parking (The Long Center for Performing Arts is on the other side) because it’s typically got spaces open and it’s a flat fee of $10 unless there’s a big event. Otherwise it’s the easiest to me and I know I’ll get a spot without having to wait for someone to leave or fight for a spot.
Here are some other pros and cons to consider for parking. The whole area is stroller friendly and pretty flat so that’s not an issue anywhere. If you decide to visit this splash pad in the evening hours just note that if you park at the popular parking lot you will have to walk through the playground to get back to your vehicle. However if you’re parking at the Palmer Events Center you will only be crossing a big open field to get back to the garage.
Why do I tell you this? Because it could save you a meltdown if you’re kids are tired staying up past bedtime. Even if you’re making a magical night it could still end in disaster if you don’t think through the logistics. I mean if you’re kid can walk through a playground to go to the car without wanting to play then by all means do it, but just be aware of how that’s going to play out to make your night as enjoyable as possible.
When to Go and What It’s Like at Night
Hours of Operation
Hours of operation are 9am to 10pm daily. This splashpad is year round and in Austin, that can be wonderful because sometimes it feels like the heat is year round too!
What It’s Like at Night
Simply put… magical. If you focus on following a schedule and you’re kids don’t spend much time outside after dark, then planning this night outing would be so special. It’s not often that we stay out late at night and then when you add into the city skyline in the background with the lights of the splash pad it’s an experience.
We hadn’t planned on going to the splash pad the night we did this… as you can probably tell by what my kids are wearing. But, as we were passing by my youngest asked if he could play in it because what child wouldn’t be drawn to the beautiful lights and the water? I almost said no, but reconsidered since we didn’t have to be anywhere the next day and no one was going to get hurt by not having the right attire. So I said yes… and I’m so glad I did!
What to Bring and What to Expect
1. Water shoes – You can bring use them, but you don’t necessarily need them.
2. Towels and dry clothes – Usually always a must, but as you can see our unplanned night of fun wasn’t ruined with the wrong attire.
3. Shade status – There’s not much shade in the sitting area for parents which makes the idea of going later in the evening more desirable. If you can’t do that bring an umbrella and a towel to sit on. The rocks may be hot.
4. Nearby bathrooms – Yes, but you gotta walk through the playground to get to the bathrooms.
5. Picnic potential – Absolutely amazing picnic spot out on the open grass field with the iconic skyline view. Bring a blanket and dinner with you to enjoy your night downtown!
6. Playground or climbing space – Both! This playground is only a few years old and a kid favorite. Just be aware that it’s not fenced in so you’ll have to be watching. Lots of fun areas to spend time at though.
Is It Worth Going? My Honest Review
We had a great time and even though it wasn’t planned I am planning to go back before this summer is over and we’re back to waking up early for school. Besides having swim outfits the only other thing I would change about our impromptu plan would have been to bring more snacks or plan a picnic before so we could relax longer.
Book a Playful Family Session This Summer
If you’ve been meaning to capture this stage of life while your kids are still in the splash pad season, I’d love to help you bottle it up in photos you’ll actually love. Reach out to find out more about summer specials and availability so we can plan your perfect summer portrait session!
