Austin is a happening place, filled to the brim with exciting music events, foodie destinations, startups, and sports venues. Adults can find much to love in this intriguing city, but what about families with kids? Fortunately, the city and its surrounding areas are filled with incredible family-friendly activities, especially ones geared toward getting the family outside to enjoy the fresh air.
If you’re looking for a new home in Austin or simply want to know more about these activities, the Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate team is an excellent resource. Read on for some of the best outdoor activities the whole family will enjoy!
Barton Creek Greenbelt
3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX
The stunning Barton Creek Greenbelt is a natural treasure offering miles of hiking, biking, and running trails, cutting through lush forests and leading to serene swimming spots. A perfect place for families to bond over nature and enjoy outdoor adventures, the Greenbelt serves as a refreshing escape from bustling city life.
Its lower trails are friendly for young ones, while the upper trails offer a little more challenge for older children and adults. Don't miss the chance to take a dip in the cool, crystal-clear waters of Twin Falls or Sculpture Falls.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Austin, TX 78746
Zilker Metropolitan Park is a multipurpose recreational area boasting a playground, botanical gardens, and even a miniature train ride. It's an excellent place for a family picnic or to fly a kite on a breezy day.
Visit the Zilker Botanical Garden to marvel at the diverse range of flora or witness a live musical at the Zilker Hillside Theater during the summer. The Zilker Zephyr miniature train ride is always a hit among kids, taking a scenic route around the park, allowing families to take in the park's picturesque beauty.
Barton Springs Municipal Pool
2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX
This three-acre pool is fed from underground springs and maintains a pleasant temperature year-round, making it perfect for a family swim excursion no matter when you’re in town. Attracting nearly 800,000 visitors a year, this attraction is considered one of the city’s top amenities.
Because Barton Springs Pool is a federally protected habitat (home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander), a visit here provides fodder for educational discussions with the whole family. In fact, there’s even an educational exhibit called Splash! where visitors can learn about the area’s history and biology. Splash! is located next to the pool bathhouse.
Peter Pan Mini-Golf
1207 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX
An Austin must-visit since 1948, Peter Pan Mini-Golf is perfect for a family outing. The giant Peter Pan and T-Rex statues have become iconic Austin landmarks in their own right. You can play a round or two of mini-golf and even reserve a table and bring your own food for a family picnic to cap off your golf adventure.
Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center
24814 Hamilton Pool Rd, Round Mountain, TX
For an educational yet fun outing, the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center in Round Mountain, TX, is an excellent choice. A 45-minute guided tour takes you through the breathtaking limestone crevices into a stunning grotto and past the 40-foot waterfall.
While walking, children will learn about the importance of preserving the environment and the unique wildlife of the Texas Hill Country. The Center also hosts weekend community programs for families, which include stargazing nights and bird-watching mornings. It's an experience that perfectly blends education with outdoor adventure.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX
A botanical garden dedicated to native plants, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center offers families a tranquil day out amidst vibrant blooms and lush greenery. The Family Garden includes giant bird nests, a small cave for exploring, and a maze made of native shrubs.
Special events like the Fortlandia, where custom-designed forts are displayed, or the annual Luminations event, when the gardens are beautifully lit, make this place an enchanting visit for families. Here, children can cultivate an appreciation for nature and the world around them.
Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail
Austin, TX
This 10-mile loop is perfect for families, even those with young children, because the trail is generally considered fairly easy. It takes about three hours to complete the loop. In fact, you can even bring your furry family members on a hike or bike ride, as long as you keep them on a leash.
Whether you come for a gentle walk or even a family bike ride, you’ll find much to love about this hike-and-bike trail in Butler Park.
The Natural Gardener
8648 Old Bee Caves Rd, Austin, TX
The Natural Gardener is more than just a garden center. Families can learn about organic gardening, explore themed gardens, and visit the farm animals. Children will love the butterfly garden and the vibrant labyrinth.
They even offer classes on topics like composting and organic vegetable gardening, offering a hands-on experience for older family members. The Natural Gardener is an unexpected gem where families can connect, learn, and explore new topics together.
Austin Zoo
10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX
The nearby Austin Zoo offers families an interactive wildlife experience. With more than 300 animals from over 100 different species, including mammals, birds, and reptiles, there is so much to see and learn. This particular zoo focuses on rescue, rehabilitation, and education, giving homes to animals in need.
Children can feed deer, goats, and llamas in the petting zoo. And you won’t want to miss the train tour for an exciting exploration of the zoo. For an engaging and educational day out for the entire animal-loving family, the zoo is a must-visit venue.
Embrace the Austin lifestyle
As you can see, every day offers an opportunity for a new family-friendly activity around Austin. From nature's masterpieces and cultural experiences to recreational amenities and shopping extravaganzas, this metropolis provides a delightful blend of serenity and excitement for families.
If you want to truly soak in the richness of Austin, consider making it your forever home. The Kathryn Scarborough Real Estate team, specializing in Austin real estate, would be thrilled to help you find the perfect home in this charming community. Contact them today to explore the beautiful homes for sale in Barton Creek and begin your family's lifelong journey in this exceptional neighborhood.
