13 Free Family-Friendly Activities In Austin

Welcome to Austin, the capital city of Texas, where you'll find breathtaking views, top-notch live music, mouth-watering cuisine, and a plethora of free family-friendly activities. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's no shortage of fun things to see and do in this vibrant city. From exploring the great outdoors to immersing yourself in the city's unique culture, we've rounded up 13 of the best free activities the whole family can enjoy. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Austin!

Zilker Park

If you're looking to explore Austin, TX with your family without breaking the bank, look no further than Zilker Park. Located in the heart of the city, Zilker Park offers a variety of activities that are perfect for families with children of all ages.

One of the park's most popular attractions is the Zilker Zephyr miniature train. For just $3 per person (children under 18 months ride for free), you can take a 20-minute ride through the park, getting a unique view of all the sights and sounds the area has to offer. Other nearby attractions include the Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool that's great for swimming year-round, and the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum, which features a collection of contemporary sculptures and art exhibitions.

For families looking to stay active, Zilker Park also has a variety of sports facilities, including softball and soccer fields, volleyball courts, and a disc golf course. You can even rent kayaks and canoes to take out on the park's two bodies of water: the Colorado River and Lady Bird Lake.

If you're looking for something a little more low-key, Zilker Park is home to several trails that are perfect for hiking, jogging, or just taking a leisurely stroll. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail is particularly popular, offering a ten-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake that's surrounded by stunning views of downtown Austin and the lush greenery that's all around.

Finally, don't forget to check out the Zilker Botanical Garden, which features over 30 unique gardens and exhibits, including a butterfly garden, a rose garden, and a Japanese garden. Admission to the botanical garden is just $3 for adults and $1 for children over five years old.

As you can see, there's plenty to do and see at Zilker Park, and you don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy it. With so many family-friendly activities, it's the perfect place to spend a day with your loved ones and enjoy the outdoors in the heart of Austin.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Type	Botanical garden in Austin, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 2,270
Address	4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
Phone	(512) 232-0100
Hours	Sunday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Monday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Tuesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

If you happen to be in Austin with your family and want to enjoy a beautiful outdoor experience, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is the perfect place to visit. Located southwest of the city, the center features more than 650 native Texas plant species and an impressive array of gardens and exhibits, making it a fantastic destination for kids and adults alike.

The center is open year-round and offers free admission on the first Tuesday of each month, making it a great option for an affordable family outing. Visitors can explore the center's gardens and trails, take part in a variety of educational programs and events, and discover all sorts of interesting facts about the importance of preserving and protecting native plants.

One of the most popular features of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is the expansive Texas Arboretum. The Arboretum encompasses 16 acres and showcases the trees and plant species of the region, featuring over 60 specimen trees. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour of the magnificent butterfly garden and see first-hand the importance of pollinators in the ecosystem.

In addition to the stunning outdoor spaces, the Wildflower Center also boasts impressive indoor exhibits, including a gallery showcasing botanical art and an informative exhibit on the history of environmental conservation in Texas. Interactive exhibits, films, and tours allow visitors of all ages to learn about the native plants of Texas and their unique role in the state's natural landscape.

Overall, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is an excellent destination for a free family outing if you are in Austin. There is something for everyone, from educational activities for children to beautiful, inspiring gardens for adults. So if you're looking for a fun, educational and budget-friendly day out for the whole family, be sure to add this center to your list!

Barton Springs Pool

If you're looking for a fun and cost-free way to spend time with your family in Austin, Texas, then you should definitely check out Barton Springs Pool. This popular natural swimming pool is located within the local park, Zilker Park, and offers a refreshing and relaxing outdoor experience.

The Barton Springs Pool is a massive three-acre natural spring-fed pool that is open daily from early to late hours. It's a perfect spot for families and people of all ages to enjoy nature, swim, or just hang out. The clear, cool waters are perfect for a refreshing dip especially in the scorching summer days.

Not only is the entrance fee very affordable, just $5 for adults and $2 for children, but the pool is also handicap accessible and has multiple lifeguards on duty. There are also shower and changing facilities available, making it a perfect destination for a day trip while visiting Austin.

Aside from swimming, there are plenty of other activities to do at Barton Springs Pool. The park area surrounding the pool is perfect for picnicking or playing games with your family. Visitors can also enjoy a hike, bike or jog on the extensive trails that run throughout Zilker Park.

If you're looking for a free, family fun outing in Austin, Barton Springs Pool is definitely the right choice. Bring some sunscreen and your swimming gear and relax in the natural beauty of this amazing spot.

Mount Bonnell

Austin, Texas is a wonderful city filled with a variety of activities and places to explore. One of the best things about Austin is that there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city with your family without having to spend a lot of money. One such place that families can visit for free is Mount Bonnell.

From the top of Mount Bonnell, visitors can see stunning panoramic views of the downtown Austin skyline, nearby Lake Austin, and the surrounding hill country. The view is especially breathtaking during sunset, when the sky illuminates with spectacular colors.

While Mount Bonnell is a great place to visit during the day, it is also a popular destination at night. Many locals visit the lookout point at night to stargaze or enjoy the beautiful view of the city's lights. The park is open daily from 5 am to 10 pm, which makes it easy to visit during any time of the day.

Aside from the beautiful view, Mount Bonnell is also a great place to have a picnic or relax with your family. The park offers picnic tables and a shaded area to sit and relax. It is also a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts, as there are several trails that lead to the top of the hill.

In addition to Mount Bonnell, families can also explore the surrounding area of West Austin. Visitors can take a walk on the nearby Hike and Bike Trail or visit the Zilker Botanical Garden, both of which are free to the public.

When planning a visit to Austin, don't forget to add Mount Bonnell to your list of places to visit. It's a great destination where families can enjoy spectacular views of the city and spend quality time together without having to spend a dime.

Congress Avenue Bridge (bat watching)

If you're looking for a free and family-friendly activity in Austin, you definitely won't want to miss out on the Congress Avenue Bridge bat watching experience.

Every evening from March through November, more than 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from underneath the Congress Avenue Bridge and take to the skies over Lady Bird Lake. It's a truly incredible sight to see, and one that will leave your whole family in awe.

The best time to arrive is about an hour before sunset. You can park for free in the Austin American-Statesman parking lot, and walk to the bridge from there. There are also plenty of other vantage points along the trail surrounding the lake.

As the sun begins to set, you'll start to see a few bats here and there, but then all of a sudden, it's like a switch gets flipped and they all come pouring out at once. It's amazing to watch as they form a cloud-like formation and soar over the water.

If you're worried about the bats getting too close, don't be. They're flying insects, so they're not interested in people. Plus, they're actually beneficial to the ecosystem because they eat tons of mosquitoes and other pests.

One word of caution though, bring bug spray! Since the bats are insect-eaters, there can be a lot of other bugs out during bat watching hours.

All in all, the Congress Avenue Bridge bat watching experience is an Austin favorite for a reason. It's free, it's fascinating, and it's perfect for the whole family. Make sure to add it to your Austin to-do list.

Texas State Capitol

Free Austin with Family: Exploring the Texas State Capitol

Are you planning a family trip to Austin, Texas and looking for a free adventure with the kiddos? Look no further than the Texas State Capitol! Located in downtown Austin, the Capitol serves as the home of the state government and is a historic landmark with a plethora of free activities for the family to enjoy.

Take a Guided Tour

Begin your visit with a free guided tour of the Capitol. Tours start in the South Foyer and last approximately 30 minutes. Your knowledgeable tour guide will take you through the various rooms and chambers in the Capitol, providing insight on the state's history and government. Children will love the grandeur of the Capitol rotunda and the colorful portraits of Texas governors lining the walls.

Explore the Grounds

After the tour, take a stroll around the Capitol's lush and expansive grounds. The beautifully manicured lawns and gardens feature shady trees, blooming flowers, and bronze statues of famous Texans. The grounds are also home to a number of monuments and memorials, including the Texas African American History Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Monument.

Visit the Capitol Visitors Center

Located on the Capitol grounds is the Visitors Center, which offers free educational exhibits about Texas history and government. The interactive exhibits are geared towards children and adults alike, making it a fun and educational stop for the whole family. While you're there, take advantage of the free souvenir penny press and grab a unique memento of your Austin adventure.

Watch the Texas Legislature in Action

If you're visiting Austin during the legislative session (January through May), take the opportunity to watch the Texas Legislature in action. Visitors are welcome to observe House and Senate sessions from the gallery. It's a thrilling experience to watch lawmakers debate and work together to pass laws that impact Texans of all ages.

In conclusion, visiting the Texas State Capitol is a must-do activity for families in Austin. The free guided tour, expansive grounds, visitor center, and legislature sessions provide a unique and educational experience for children and adults alike. Plus, it's a great way to peek behind the curtain of state government and learn about the history and people of Texas.

Umlauf Sculpture Garden

Characteristic	Description
Name	Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
Type	Museum in Austin, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 1,085
Address	605 Azie Morton Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Phone	(512) 445-5582
Hours	Sunday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 4 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

If you're looking to spend some quality family time in Austin without breaking the bank, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden might just be the perfect destination for you. Home to many beautiful sculptures and situated in a stunning natural setting, the garden offers plenty of opportunities for enjoyment and learning.

One of the most appealing things about the Umlauf Sculpture Garden is that admission is completely free for all visitors. This means that you can take your entire family without worrying about the cost of entry. Once inside, you'll be able to explore the garden at your leisure and get up close to the many sculptures that dot the landscape.

The garden is a memorial to the works of Charles Umlauf, a renowned sculptor who lived and worked in Austin for many years. The works on display in the garden range from large bronze pieces to smaller wood and stone sculptures. You'll be able to stroll through the garden and admire the works of art while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

If you're interested in learning more about the sculptures you see, the garden offers a number of tours and programs for visitors of all ages. These include guided tours, sculpture hunts for children, and even art-making workshops. With so many options, you're sure to find something that suits your interests and fits into your schedule.

Overall, if you're looking to experience the beauty and culture of Austin with your family without spending any money, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden is a great choice. With free admission, stunning sculptures, and a range of educational programs, it's a destination that is sure to please visitors of all ages.

Blanton Museum of Art (free on Thursdays)

Looking for a fun and budget-friendly activity to do with your family in Austin? Look no further than the Blanton Museum of Art!

Located on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin, the Blanton Museum of Art boasts a collection of more than 17,000 works, ranging from Renaissance paintings to contemporary sculptures. And the best part? Admission is free every Thursday!

Whether you're an art aficionado or simply looking for a unique way to spend a few hours with your family, the Blanton Museum of Art has something for everyone. Here are just a few of the highlights:

• The permanent collection: From ancient Greek pottery to postmodern installations, the Blanton's permanent collection spans centuries and continents. Some of the most popular works include European paintings by artists like Rubens and Gainsborough, as well as contemporary pieces by Latin American artists.
• The modern and contemporary collection: If you're interested in cutting-edge art, don't miss the Blanton's modern and contemporary collection. This includes works by major artists like Anselm Kiefer, Louise Nevelson, and Ellsworth Kelly.
• Special exhibitions: The Blanton frequently hosts special exhibitions that showcase specific themes or artists. Recent exhibitions have included "Michelangelo: Sacred and Profane," "Black Is Beautiful: The Photography of Kwame Brathwaite," and "Words/Matter: Latin American Art and Language."
• Family-friendly activities: If you're visiting with kids, be sure to check out the Blanton's family programs. These include interactive tours, art-making activities, and storytime sessions. Plus, the museum's size and layout make it easy to navigate with strollers and young children.

So why not plan a visit to the Blanton Museum of Art on your next free Thursday? You and your family are sure to be inspired and entertained by the incredible works on display.

HOPE Outdoor Gallery

Austin is a fantastic city to explore with your family. There are many free activities and attractions that allow you to bond, have fun, and create great memories. One of the top attractions that you should add to your list is the HOPE Outdoor Gallery. This outdoor art gallery is a must-see destination for both art lovers and adventure seekers.

The HOPE Outdoor Gallery, also known as the Graffiti Park at Castle Hill, is an iconic location for street art. It's an outdoor canvas for artists of all levels to showcase their creativity and express themselves freely. The Gallery is located on Castle Hill, about a mile west of downtown Austin, just south of the Mopac Expressway. There, you'll find a collection of murals, graffiti art, and street art that's all open to the public.

The Gallery is made up of several layers of walls that artists can paint on. These walls are continually changing. When visiting, you'll encounter new art in progress, artists completing pieces, and the occasional photo shoot. As you explore the site, you'll be amazed by the incredible range of designs, colors, and textures that the artists infuse into their work.

The HOPE Outdoor Gallery is not just for art enthusiasts, though. It's a perfect place for families to create memories and have fun. You can take a stroll around the park and admire the art, or bring your art supplies and let your creativity flow. This place is perfect if you aim to create a unique family portrait as a souvenir from your trip. But that's not all: the Gallery also offers spectacular views of downtown Austin and the Colorado River, making it a perfect place to relax and appreciate the town's beauty.

To sum up, the HOPE Outdoor Gallery is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Austin with their family. It's a great place to create art, enjoy local culture, and spend quality time together. Plus, it's free! So, go ahead and add it to your itinerary – you won't regret it.

McKinney Falls State Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	McKinney Falls State Park
Type	State park in Austin, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 6,067
Address	5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744
Phone	(512) 243-1643
Hours	Sunday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 10 PM Monday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 10 PM Tuesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 10 PM Wednesday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 10 PM Thursday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 10 PM Friday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 10 PM Saturday - opens at 8 AM and closes at 10 PM
Profiles

If you're looking for a fun and affordable way to spend a day with your family in Austin, look no further than McKinney Falls State Park. Located just 13 miles south of downtown Austin, this beautiful park offers a wide range of outdoor activities and stunning natural scenery that the whole family can enjoy.

One of the best things about McKinney Falls State Park is that it's completely free to visit. Although there is a fee for camping, day use of the park is completely free, making it an accessible option for families on a budget. Once you arrive, you can explore over 9 miles of scenic trails that wind their way through the park, stopping to take in picturesque waterfalls and swimming holes along the way.

If you're looking to cool off on a hot Texas day, McKinney Falls State Park has plenty of opportunities for swimming. The park boasts two swimming areas, one above the falls and one below, both of which offer refreshing and crystal-clear waters for swimming, tubing, and wading. Safety measures are in place, including lifeguards on duty during peak season, so you can rest assured that your family will be well looked after.

If you'd rather take to the water in a different way, you can rent kayaks and canoes from the park store and explore Onion Creek at your own pace. Fishing is also allowed in the park, with the creek home to a variety of fish, including bass and catfish.

If you want to make the most of your visit, pack a picnic and enjoy lunch surrounded by the beautiful nature of the park. There are several picnic areas available, many of which offer scenic views of the park's waterfalls and creeks.

Overall, McKinney Falls State Park is an excellent choice for families looking for a fun, free day out in Austin. With opportunities for hiking, swimming, canoeing, and more, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So why not pack up your family and head to the park for a day of adventure and relaxation?

Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Looking for a free day out with your family in Austin? Look no further than Emma Long Metropolitan Park. This beautiful park is situated on the shores of Lake Austin and offers a range of activities and facilities that are perfect for the whole family.

Firstly, the park has several different trails which are perfect for hiking and biking. There are easy trails suitable for younger children or beginners, as well as more challenging ones for the more experienced hiker. The trails wind through the forest and offer stunning views of Lake Austin – an ideal opportunity for some family snaps.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, the park also offers watercraft rentals. You can rent kayaks or canoes and explore the lake or just spend the afternoon paddling around. These rentals are affordable, meaning you can enjoy a day exploring the lake with the whole family without breaking the bank.

Finally, the park has several picnic areas located throughout the park, with tables and grills available for use. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the great outdoors.

Austin Nature and Science Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Austin Nature & Science Center
Type	Science museum in Austin, Texas
Website	Go to website
Address	2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746
Phone	(512) 974-3888
Hours	Sunday - opens at 12 and closes at 5 PM Monday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Tuesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Wednesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

Austin, Texas is a family-friendly city, with abundant opportunities for free activities perfect for the whole family. One of the top destinations in Austin is the Nature and Science Center. Located in Zilker Park, the center offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the natural world, science, and history.

The Austin Nature and Science Center offers a variety of exhibits and interactive activities that are perfect for children. Along with the interactive exhibits and displays, the center also offers live animal exhibits, including reptiles, amphibians, and birds of prey. Additionally, the center also includes an outdoor space, which allows visitors to explore the natural environment with several hiking trails, a creek, and various ecosystems representative of Texas.

With free admission, families can spend hours exploring the center and the surrounding grounds. The Austin Nature and Science Center also offers educational programs and camps for children, allowing them to learn about the environment and science in a fun and interactive way.

The center is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and offers ample parking. While there are a few interactive exhibits that require a fee, most of the activities and exhibits are free for visitors to enjoy.

Visiting the Austin Nature and Science Center is a must-do for families in Austin. With its wide range of exhibits, interactive displays, and outdoor space, the center offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking for a fun day out for the family or an educational adventure, the Nature and Science Center is the perfect destination.

Austin Public Library (various locations)

Austin, Texas may be known for its vibrant music scene and delicious cuisine, but did you know that it’s also home to numerous public libraries that offer free entertainment and education for families? That’s right, the Austin Public Library system has branches scattered throughout the city that provide a welcoming space for visitors of all ages. So, if you’re seeking a family-friendly activity that won’t break the bank, look no further than your local public library.

With over 20 branches in Austin, there is sure to be a library near you. Each location offers an extensive selection of books, DVDs, CDs, and magazines for visitors to peruse. The Austin Public Library also has an impressive digital collection that includes e-books, e-audiobooks, and streaming services like Hoopla and Kanopy. So whether you prefer to curl up with a good book or stream a family-friendly movie at home, the Austin Public Library has got you covered.

In addition to their vast collection of materials, the Austin Public Library hosts various events and programs that are perfect for families. These events range from toddler storytime and puppet shows to STEM activities and creative writing workshops for teenagers. There is truly something for everyone at the library. And the best part? All these events and activities are completely free!

One unique feature of the Austin Public Library system is the Bookmobile. This traveling library visits different neighborhoods within the city providing access to library services and resources for those who might not be able to access them otherwise. The Bookmobile’s mission is to ensure that everyone in the community has equal access to books and educational resources, regardless of age, income or location.

So if you’re looking for a fun and free activity to do with your family in Austin, look no further than your local public library. With their extensive collection of materials, diverse programming, and commitment to community outreach, the Austin Public Library is an invaluable resource for families in the city. So go ahead, grab a book, attend an event, and experience everything that your local library has to offer!

Frequently asked questions