Looking for a week packed with family-friendly adventure? Whether you're a local or visiting Austin, there’s no shortage of exciting places to explore with the kids. From bouncing around indoors to discovering dinosaurs, riding a vintage train, or splashing in a natural spring, these 8 must-visit spots offer something fun for every type of family. Let the adventures begin!
🎉 8 Fun-Filled Family Attractions in Austin You Don’t Want to Miss This Week
🎉 8 Fun-Filled Family Attractions in Austin You Don’t Want to Miss This Week
Zilker Metropolitan Park – Nature and Play Collide & 🐾 Austin Zoo – A Rescue Zoo with a Big Heart
📍 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704 Zilker Park is an Austin favorite with wide-open spaces for picnics, kite flying, and even paddle boating on Lady Bird Lake. Don't forget to visit the Zilker Playground and Barton Springs Pool for an unforgettable outdoor day. It’s the perfect spot to let kids run wild and enjoy nature in the heart of the city. & 📍 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736 Unlike a typical zoo, the Austin Zoo focuses on rescue animals and conservation. Kids can get up close to lions, bears, monkeys, and reptiles while learning about animal welfare. Don’t miss the petting zoo for up-close experiences with goats and deer.
Inflatable Wonderland – Indoor Fun for All Ages!
📍 Located inside Lakeline Mall, 11200 Lakeline Mall Dr, Austin, TX 78717 Need to beat the Texas heat or dodge a rainy day? Step inside Inflatable Wonderland, Austin’s go-to indoor play space filled with giant slides, obstacle courses, and bounce houses galore. Perfect for walk-in play, birthday parties, or even homeschool group outings. Parents can relax while the kids jump and flip their energy out—there’s even free Wi-Fi so you can work while they play!
Thinkery – Where Kids Get to Be Scientists & Austin Nature & Science Center – Free & Educational
📍 1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723 This hands-on children’s museum blends science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) into interactive exhibits that keep little ones learning and laughing. The Light Lab and Innovators' Workshop are big hits with curious minds—and you might have just as much fun as the kids! & 📍 2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746 This hidden gem nestled in Zilker Park offers free admission and an up-close look at rescued wildlife, dinosaur fossil digs, and hands-on nature exhibits. It’s a calm, enriching spot perfect for young explorers who love bugs, rocks, and everything in between.
Jourdan-Bachman Pioneer Farms – Step Back in Time & 🚂 Austin Steam Train Association – All Aboard for Adventure!
📍 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754 Give your kids a taste of Texas history with a visit to this living history park. With blacksmith demos, longhorns, and hands-on pioneer experiences, it’s a memorable adventure that brings the past to life. They even host themed events throughout the year. &📍 401 E. Whitestone Blvd C-100, Cedar Park, TX 78613 Hop aboard a real vintage train! The Austin Steam Train offers themed rides including wild west shows, holiday specials, and scenic journeys through the Texas Hill Country. It’s a hit with train lovers of all ages—and a unique experience that feels like stepping into another era.
🌊 Barton Springs Pool – Natural Swimming in the City
📍 Zilker Park, 2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746 Looking for a nature-meets-city experience? Barton Springs Pool offers cool, spring-fed swimming in the heart of Austin. The constant 68-70°F water makes it ideal for hot summer days. It’s family-friendly with lifeguards on duty and shallow zones for kids.
From exploring science at Thinkery to climbing inflatables at Inflatable Wonderland, Austin is overflowing with unforgettable family attractions. You can cool off at Barton Springs Pool, travel back in time at Pioneer Farms, or hop on a vintage train with the Austin Steam Train Association. Whether you’re planning a day or an entire week of fun, Austin has something magical for every family. So charge your camera, pack some snacks, and let the good times roll!