7 Best Family-Friendly Outdoor Activities in Austin
Looking to soak up some Austin sun with the kids? This Texas gem delivers outdoor fun that goes way beyond the city’s famous music scene. From natural swimming holes to scenic trails, here’s your guide to the best family-friendly outdoor activities in Austin.
1. Barton Springs Pool Adventures
This natural limestone pool in central Austin stays a refreshing 68–70 degrees year-round. It’s the perfect escape from the Texas summer heat!
What makes Barton Springs special for families? It blends natural wonder with urban convenience. Kids get fascinated by the crystal-clear water and they might even spot the protected Barton Springs salamander darting around! The pool’s gradual depth creates natural zones for different swimming abilities, while lifeguards provide extra peace of mind for parents.
The surrounding Zilker Park offers shady picnic spots and playgrounds. Many families make a full day of it, switching between swimming and exploring the park’s many attractions.
Pro tips: Arrive early on summer weekends to secure parking and seating. Thursday mornings offer free admission and typically smaller crowds.
2. Lady Bird Lake Paddling Excursions
Exploring Austin’s downtown waterways by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard gives you a unique perspective on the city.
Lady Bird Lake works so well for family paddling because of its calm, controlled conditions. The no-wake zone ensures gentle water perfect for beginners and younger paddlers. As you glide along, you’ll pass beneath historic bridges and enjoy amazing views of the Austin skyline. You’ll likely spot turtles sunning on logs or herons fishing in shallow waters!
Multiple rental spots around the lake offer equipment sized for different ages. Tandem kayaks and canoes let younger children pair with adults, and most outfitters provide quick lessons perfect for first-timers.
Pro tip: Early morning excursions offer cooler temperatures and calmer water. The route from Zilker Park to Congress Avenue Bridge and back takes about 2 hours and gives you the best mix of nature and city views.
3. Overlook Scenic Mount Bonnell
This historic landmark offers one of Austin’s most spectacular views after a short but rewarding climb. At 775 feet above sea level, you’ll get panoramic vistas of Lake Austin and the city beyond.
Families love Mount Bonnell for its accessibility and big payoff. The 102-step limestone staircase is manageable for most children and they’ll also get a real sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top! The path stays well-maintained and partially shaded, makingthe climb possible even during the warmer months – as long as you avoid the midday heat.
The summit features a large observation deck and limestone seating areas. These create perfect spots for family photos, picnics, or simply enjoying the view together.
Pro tips: Visit at sunset for the most dramatic views and cooler temperatures. Bring a small flashlight for the descent if staying for sunset.
4. Dive into Zilker Botanical Garden
The self-proclaimed “jewel in the heart of Austin” spans 26 acres and offers themed gardens that transport visitors around the world. You’ll discover everything from Japanese landscapes to prehistoric plants!
These gardens spark imagination and learning through their immersive, themed approach. Kids go crazy for the Hartman Prehistoric Garden where life-size dinosaur sculptures hide among plants that existed during their era! The Japanese Garden features peaceful streams with koi fish and bridge crossings that delight younger visitors.
The numerous paths create natural exploration opportunities, with frequent benches and shaded areas providing resting spots when needed. Many families create scavenger hunts to keep children engaged throughout their visit.
Pro tip: Visit during wildflower season (March–May) for the most colorful experience, or check out the park’s official event schedule before planning a visit.
5. Explore McKinney Falls State Park
Just 13 miles from downtown, this state park offers an escape to the wilderness with swimming holes, hiking trails, and limestone formations.
McKinney Falls stands out because it offers varied terrain and activities for different interests and energy levels. The Upper and Lower Falls create natural swimming areas with shallow sections perfect for younger children. Hiking trails range from easy quarter-mile paved paths to more challenging routes for experienced hikers.
The park’s 726 acres provide plenty of space for wildlife spotting. White-tailed deer, armadillos, and numerous bird species make regular appearances. The “Old Baldy” tree, estimated to be over 500 years old, creates a natural history lesson kids actually find interesting!
Pro tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. The 2.8-mile Onion Creek Trail makes a perfect family hike with swimming opportunities along the way.
6. Revel in Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
This historic cottage and gardens surrounded by 21 acres of nature preserve combines manicured beauty with natural exploration. Oh, and it has peacocks. Lots of peacocks!
The free-roaming birds fascinate children as they display their feathers and strut around. Meanwhile, the historic gardens feature stone ponds filled with water lilies and fish that create perfect spots for quiet observation and photographing nature.
Beyond the formal gardens, well-maintained trails wind through the nature preserve. You can spot turtles, fish, and numerous bird species along the way. The trails stay relatively short and mostly flat, making them appropriate for all ages.
Pro tips: Bring quarters to buy peacock food from dispensers near the entrance. Visit in early spring for a chance to see newly hatched peacock chicks.
7. Lake Travis Water Adventures
For families seeking bigger water adventures, Lake Travis offers 270 miles of shoreline and numerous family-friendly boating options just outside Austin.
Lake Travis delivers with its clear, deep water and numerous coves perfect for swimming, tubing, and water play. Various marinas offer rentals ranging from pontoon boats (perfect for families with younger children) to ski boats for those with teenagers seeking more thrilling experiences.
Prefer someone else to handle the driving? Several companies offer captain-led tours that combine sightseeing with swimming stops at the lake’s famous limestone cliffs and hidden coves. And if you’re up for a more hands-on experience, cast a line for a variety of Bass species with one of the local fishing guides!
Pro tips: Reserve your watercraft at least 2 weeks in advance during the summer months. Weekday rentals offer significantly reduced rates and less crowded conditions.
Planning Your Austin Outdoor Expedition
To make the most of your Austin outdoor excursion, make sure to:
- Bring more water than you think you need (Texas’s heat is sneaky)
- Slather on sunscreen (many spots have limited shade)
- Hit trails in the early morning or evening (make sure to avoid the midday heat)
- Plan by season (spring wildflowers, summer swimming, fall hiking, etc.)
Austin’s natural spaces offer both wild adventures and peaceful escapes. From spring-fed pools to peacock gardens, outdoor Austin creates the perfect backdrop for family fun. Come and explore “Bat City” to see what we’re talking about!
Got a favorite Austin outdoor activity? Think we missed something amazing? Share your Texas adventures below!
