14 Fun Activities For Teenagers In Austin

Austin, the bustling capital city of Texas, offers endless opportunities for teenagers to unleash their inner explorers and adventure-seekers. Whether it's exploring the city's food and music scene or participating in outdoor activities at Austin's beautiful parks, there's never a dull moment in this vibrant city. To help you make the most of your time here, we've compiled a list of 14 fun and exciting activities that every teen in Austin should try. So, grab your buddies and get ready to explore Austin like never before!

Visit Lady Bird Lake

Looking for some fun teenage-friendly activities in Austin? Why not check out Lady Bird Lake?

Located in downtown Austin, Lady Bird Lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With over 400 acres of water and lush parkland, it’s the perfect spot for a day of outdoor adventure.

One of the highlights of Lady Bird Lake is the hike and bike trail. The trail is over ten miles long and winds along the lake, offering stunning views of the water and the Austin skyline. It’s a great spot for joggers, walkers, and cyclists of all skill levels. In fact, it’s one of the most popular places to exercise in the city!

For those who love water activities, Lady Bird Lake has plenty to offer. The lake is home to several boat rental companies that rent out kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. It’s a great way to explore the lake and take in the scenery from a different perspective.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at stand-up paddleboard yoga or even wakeboarding? There are several businesses in the area that offer lessons and rentals for these unique activities.

For nature lovers, Lady Bird Lake is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including turtles, fish, and various bird species. Bring a pair of binoculars and see how many species you can spot!

Lastly, Lady Bird Lake is a great place to relax and picnic. There are several designated picnic areas throughout the park where you can enjoy a meal with family and friends. Plus, there are plenty of shady spots where you can kick back and soak up the sun.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a fun day out with your teenager in Austin, be sure to visit Lady Bird Lake. With a wide range of activities and stunning scenery, it’s sure to be a memorable experience for all.

Go to South Congress Avenue

Austin with a Teenager: Exploring South Congress Avenue

If you're looking to spend quality time in Austin with your teenager, look no further than South Congress Avenue. This street is a lively and unique area that is perfect for teens and adults alike. Here are some of our top recommendations for a fun day out on South Congress Avenue.

Explore the Boutiques and Shops

South Congress Avenue is home to a wide array of unique boutiques and vintage shops. Your teenager will love the eclectic mix of stores and the chance to find some one-of-a-kind items. Some of our favorites include Allens Boots, Uncommon Objects, and Tesoros Trading Company. Bring some spending money and enjoy a fun afternoon of shopping together.

Snap Some Photos at the Murals

Austin is known for its colorful murals, and you'll find some of the best ones along South Congress Avenue. Take your teenager on a walking tour of the murals, including the famous "Greetings from Austin" mural and the "I love you so much" wall. These murals offer fantastic photo opportunities and a way to remember your day together.

Enjoy Live Music

No trip to Austin is complete without experiencing the local music scene, and South Congress Avenue is no exception. Many of the bars and restaurants along the street offer live music performances. For a truly unique experience, visit the Continental Club, a historic venue that has hosted iconic musicians since the 1950s. Your teenager may discover a new favorite artist or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Try Some Local Food

Austin is known for its delicious and diverse food scene, and your teenager will love trying out the local cuisine. South Congress Avenue offers several excellent dining options, including Torchy's Tacos, Home Slice Pizza, and Hopdoddy Burger Bar. These restaurants are casual and welcoming to teens, and they're sure to satisfy everyone's appetite.

South Congress Avenue is a great spot to take your teenager for a fun day out in Austin. From shopping to murals to live music and delicious food, there's something for everyone. Plan your itinerary ahead of time, and get ready to make some fantastic memories together.

Tour the Texas Capitol

If you're looking to explore Austin with a teenager, why not take a tour of the Texas Capitol? The Capitol building is an important landmark in Texas and houses the offices and chambers of the Texas Legislature and Governor's office.

Here are a few reasons why touring the Texas Capitol with a teenager is a great idea:

• Learn about Texas history: The Capitol is filled with history and interesting architectural details that can teach you a lot about the state's past. It's a great way to get your teenager interested in history and politics.
• Explore the building's unique features: From the stunning dome to the murals and sculptures throughout the building, there are plenty of unique features to discover. You can also explore the Senate and House Chambers, as well as the Visitor Center and gift shop.
• Take a guided tour: The Texas Capitol offers daily guided tours that are informative and engaging. Your teenager can ask questions and learn about the various roles and responsibilities of Texas lawmakers.
• Enjoy the outdoors: The Capitol is situated on a beautiful 22-acre park-like setting that is perfect for taking a stroll or having a picnic. Your teenager can also enjoy the nearby Bullock Texas State History Museum or the Blanton Museum of Art.

Overall, touring the Texas Capitol is a great way to learn about Texas history, explore a unique building, and spend quality time with your teenager in Austin. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit today!

Explore the LBJ Presidential Library

If you're visiting Austin with a teenager, one attraction you shouldn't miss is the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library. Located on the campus of the University of Texas, the library offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and presidency of one of America's most colorful politicians.

Here's what you need to know before you go.

The Basics

The LBJ Presidential Library contains more than 45 million pages of documents and artifacts related to Lyndon B. Johnson's life and presidency, as well as exhibits and interactive displays that give visitors a sense of the times in which he lived. Visitors are welcome to explore the library on their own, or they can take a guided tour led by one of the library's knowledgeable staff members.

Exhibits

One of the most popular exhibits at the LBJ Presidential Library is the "Cornerstones of Civil Rights" exhibit, which explores the Civil Rights Movement and its impact on American society. The exhibit includes photographs, videos, and artifacts related to key events and figures of the era, from the Montgomery bus boycott to the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Other notable exhibits include "The Vietnam War," which examines the political and social context of the conflict, and "The Presidential Limousine," which houses the vehicle in which President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963.

Interactive Displays

To help visitors engage more deeply with the library's exhibits, the LBJ Presidential Library also features a number of interactive displays. One such display is the "Decision Theater," which allows visitors to step into the shoes of a presidential adviser and simulate the process of making a difficult decision. Another is the "Oral History Project," which features audio recordings of interviews with key figures from the Johnson administration.

Visiting with Teenagers

If you're visiting the LBJ Presidential Library with a teenager, you might want to consider taking a guided tour or participating in one of the library's special programs, such as the "LBJ Urban Legends Tour" or the "Presidential Scavenger Hunt." You might also want to explore some of the nearby attractions, such as the University of Texas campus or the nearby Barton Springs Pool.

Overall, the LBJ Presidential Library is a must-see for anyone interested in American history or politics. With its engaging exhibits and interactive displays, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and presidency of one of America's most iconic leaders.

Visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Bullock Texas State History Museum
Type	Museum in Austin, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 5,526
Address	1800 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
Phone	(512) 936-8746
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Austin, Texas is a great place to visit with a teenager. There are numerous activities and attractions that will keep both parents and teens entertained. One such attraction is the Bullock Texas State History Museum.

Located in the heart of downtown Austin, the Bullock Texas State History Museum is a state-of-the-art facility that showcases Texas' rich history and culture. It is an ideal starting point for visitors who want to explore the state's diverse past, from prehistoric times to the present day.

The museum boasts a wide-range of exhibits that are designed to appeal to all age groups. For instance, the "La Belle" exhibit features a fascinating story about the French explorer La Salle's ill-fated quest to establish a colony in Texas in the 17th century. The exhibit provides an interactive experience, allowing visitors to learn about the ship's discovery and the subsequent restoration efforts that brought it back to life.

The museum also has an exhibit on the history of Texas sports, known as "Texas High School Football: More Than a Game." The exhibit highlights the rich history and passion behind high school football in Texas, which is arguably the state's most popular sport. If your teenager is a sports fanatic or is interested in the culture of Texas, this exhibit is not to be missed.

Another popular exhibit at the museum is the "Story of Texas," which traces the state's history from pre-Columbian times to the present. The exhibit features a variety of objects and artifacts, both large and small, that help to tell the story of Texas. Additionally, the exhibit is narrated by an audio guide that features not only information about the exhibit, but also interviews and sound bites from Texans who provide context and perspective about the state.

The museum also hosts various traveling exhibits throughout the year. These exhibits provide visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about different aspects of Texas history and culture.

In conclusion, a visit to the Bullock Texas State History Museum is a must-do activity for families with teenagers visiting Austin. With so much to see and do, visitors of all ages are sure to leave with a new appreciation for the Lone Star State's history and culture.

Have a picnic at Zilker Park

If you're in Austin with a teenager, one excellent way to enjoy the city's natural beauty is by having a picnic at Zilker Park. This 351-acre park is one of the most popular destinations in the city, and it's easy to see why: beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and multiple attractions like the beloved Barton Springs Pool.

To start, pick a spot to lay down your picnic blanket. We recommend finding a spot near the volleyball courts or soccer fields, which can help your teen burn off some energy before or after the meal. Zilker Park also has designated picnic areas with grills if you prefer to barbecue your lunch.

Once you've set up your picnic, take some time to enjoy the park's scenery. Stroll through the Botanical Gardens, admire the beautiful fountains, or walk along the winding paths. Be sure to keep an eye out for the numerous sculptures and installations throughout the park.

If your teenager is interested in getting active, Zilker Park has several options. You can rent paddle boats, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards to explore Lady Bird Lake or take a bike ride on the nearby Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. There are also numerous playgrounds throughout the park, including the Playscape, which is designed for older children.

Before you leave, be sure to cool off at the Barton Springs Pool. At three acres, it's one of the largest natural swimming holes in the world, and it's always a hit with kids and teenagers alike. Go for a swim, soak up the sun, and enjoy the idyllic setting before heading back into the city.

Overall, a picnic at Zilker Park is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors with a teenager in Austin. With plenty of activities and gorgeous scenery to explore, you'll have a day filled with memories to cherish for years to come.

Go to Barton Springs Pool

Austin is a vibrant city with many exciting activities to enjoy, and it is a perfect destination to explore with a teenager. One of the best places to visit with a teenager in Austin is the Barton Springs Pool, a natural limestone pool located in Zilker Metropolitan Park.

The Barton Springs Pool is a famous swimming spot that has been a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike for decades. The pool's clear, cool water is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The pool is surrounded by lush greenery, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful Texas nature while taking a swim.

Teenagers will appreciate the variety of activities available at the pool at Barton Springs. The deep end of the pool is perfect for jumping, diving, and showing off some cool moves. There is also a shallow area that is suitable for lounging and relaxing in the sun. Teenagers can also play a game of Frisbee on the adjacent grassy areas, hike on nearby trails, or rent a kayak or paddleboard on Barton Creek that feeds the pool.

Aside from swimming, there is much to see around the pool. The Barton Springs Bathhouse houses a small educational exhibit that educates visitors about the history of the pool and wildlife found in the area. Visitors can also hike around the nearby trails to see the local flora and fauna.

During summers, for the adventurous, the pool hosts the Splash Party Movie Nights where visitors can float on their tubes or otherwise and watch a movie on the big screen placed on the hillside of the pool.

Overall, going to the Barton Springs Pool is a perfect way to spend the day in Austin with a teenager. It offers a fun, family-friendly atmosphere and is an excellent way to beat the Texas heat while enjoying some quality outdoor time. Whether it's swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the surrounding park areas, the Barton Springs Pool has loads to offer for teenagers and people of all ages.

Play laser tag at Blazer Tag Adventure Center

If you're vacationing in Austin with a teenager, you are likely looking for some fun and exciting activities to do together. One option to consider is heading to Blazer Tag Adventure Center and playing some laser tag!

Blazer Tag Adventure Center is a popular destination for families, friends, and groups of all ages. It offers a unique and thrilling experience that is sure to be a hit with teenagers. The center features a massive 10,500 square foot laser tag arena that is filled with obstacles, ramps, and towers. You'll feel like you've been transported to a futuristic sci-fi world as you play laser tag with your teen.

The laser tag game at Blazer Tag Adventure Center is action-packed and intense, with special effects that add to the excitement. There are multiple game modes to choose from, such as Capture the Flag, Free-for-All, and Domination. Each game mode has its own set of rules and objectives, so you'll want to make sure you understand the game before you begin playing.

The center also offers other activities and attractions that your teenager might enjoy. For example, there is a rock climbing wall, an arcade with classic games, and a virtual reality experience. You can even host a birthday party or a group event at the center, which is great for larger groups.

Before you visit Blazer Tag Adventure Center, be sure to check their website for hours and ticket prices. They offer different packages and options depending on your group size and the activities you want to participate in. They also have special promotions and deals throughout the year, so you might be able to get a discount on your visit.

Overall, playing laser tag at Blazer Tag Adventure Center is an excellent way to spend quality time with your teenager while also having a blast. It's a unique and memorable experience that you won't find anywhere else. So, grab your teen, put on your game face, and get ready for some good old-fashioned laser tag fun!

Try indoor skydiving at iFly Austin

Characteristic	Description
Name	iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Austin
Type	Skydiving center in Austin, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 1,036
Address	13265 US-183 Hwy Suite A, Austin, TX 78750
Phone	(512) 774-4359
Hours	Thursday - 12–7 PM Friday - 12–7 PM Saturday - 10 AM–7 PM Sunday - 10 AM–6 PM Monday - 11 AM–6 PM Tuesday - 11 AM–6 PM Wednesday - 11 AM–6 PM
Profiles

If you're visiting Austin with a teenager, you'll want to make sure you plan plenty of fun activities to keep them entertained. While Austin is known for its beautiful outdoors, there are also plenty of exciting indoor activities to check out. One such activity is indoor skydiving at iFly Austin.

Indoor skydiving is a thrilling experience that simulates the feeling of freefalling through the air. The iFly Austin location is conveniently located in North Austin and offers a safe, controlled environment for first-time skydivers.

The experience begins with a brief training session in which an instructor will go over safety procedures and teach you the proper body position for flying. Then, you'll gear up in a jumpsuit, helmet, and goggles before entering the wind tunnel.

Once inside the wind tunnel, you'll float weightlessly on a cushion of air as your instructor helps guide you in the proper flying position. You'll be able to fly up and down, spin, and even perform basic acrobatics.

The best part about indoor skydiving at iFly Austin is that it's suitable for all skill levels. Whether you're a first-time flyer or an experienced skydiver, the friendly and attentive staff at iFly will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Aside from the excitement of the activity itself, indoor skydiving at iFly Austin is also a great opportunity to bond with your teenager. Whether you're goofing around in the wind tunnel or cheering each other on from the sidelines, this unique experience is sure to create lasting memories.

If you're looking for a thrilling and unique experience to try with your teenager while visiting Austin, look no further than indoor skydiving at iFly Austin. With a dedicated and friendly staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and a safe and controlled environment, it's an experience you won't soon forget.

Visit the Austin Aquarium

Characteristic	Description
Name	Austin Aquarium
Type	Aquarium in Austin, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.2 / 7,346
Address	13530 US-183 Hwy #101, Austin, TX 78750
Phone	(512) 222-5586
Hours	Thursday - 10 AM–8 PM Friday - 10 AM–8 PM Saturday - 10 AM–8 PM Sunday - 10 AM–8 PM Monday - 10 AM–8 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–8 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–8 PM
Profiles

Austin is a great city that has tons of activities to do with teenagers. One of the most popular ones is to visit the Austin Aquarium. This attraction is a great place to learn about sea creatures, touch some of them and have a great time with your family or friends. In this article, we will introduce you to the Austin Aquarium and tell you why it's a must-visit if you're in Austin with a teenager.

Located on Austin's Southwest Parkway, the Austin Aquarium is a great place that has quickly become one of the city's most popular destinations. The aquarium is home to hundreds of sea creatures from all over the world, including stingrays, sharks, seahorses, jellyfish, and much more. Visitors can get up close and personal with many of the animals and even touch them - this is something teenagers especially love to do!

One of the favorite attractions at the Austin Aquarium is the Stingray Bay. Here, visitors can wade into the shallow waters and touch the friendly stingrays swimming around them. It's a fantastic experience that creates long-lasting memories that kids and teenagers will talk about for years.

The aquarium has different exhibits, as well. The Rainforest exhibit is home to iguanas, snakes, and tropical birds, including parrots and macaws. The Reptile exhibit is also a popular one, showcasing live snakes, turtles, and other reptiles. The aquarium also has a giant pacific octopus, a sea turtle, and many beautiful fish that you can discover.

Moreover, the Austin Aquarium is not only a place to learn about sea creatures - it is also home to many other activities. Visitors can enjoy an outdoor experience with a beautiful landscape surrounding them. They can also check out the arcade games that provide new energy during the trip or challenge each other in a game of mini-golf. If you're looking for something more adrenaline-pumping, the aquarium has a shark feeding show that is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun activity to do with your teenager in Austin, the Austin Aquarium is a fantastic choice. This place offers an excellent educational opportunity to learn more about sea creatures while enjoying a fun experience. With tons of interactive exhibits and activities, the Austin Aquarium is a perfect place to take your teenager and make unforgettable memories.

Visit the 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	Thursday - 9 AM–5 PM Friday - 9 AM–5 PM Saturday - 9 AM–5 PM Sunday - 12–5 PM Monday - 9 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 9 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–5 PM
Profiles

If you're visiting Austin with a teenager, the city offers a plethora of activities and attractions that are sure to keep your teen engaged and entertained. One such attraction is the Austin Nature and Science Center, which offers a mix of outdoor recreation and hands-on science exhibits.

The Austin Nature and Science Center (ANSC) is located within Zilker Park, a 360-acre park that's popular among locals and tourists alike. ANSC is a perfect destination for nature and animal lovers, as it features indoor and outdoor exhibits showcasing a variety of native Texas animals, including coyotes, bobcats, and raptors.

In addition to the animals, ANSC has a variety of hiking trails that wander through the park's rolling hills and dense forests. There are also a few playgrounds for younger children and a popular natural swimming hole, which is perfect for beating the Texas summer heat.

Teenagers will appreciate the hands-on exhibits found at the ANSC. The museum features interactive exhibits that cover a range of topics, including geology, paleontology, and astronomy. The museum also offers regular workshops and classes, as well as guided hikes, which provide a chance to learn from the park's naturalists and gain a deeper appreciation for the local flora and fauna.

One of the most popular exhibits is the Dinosaurs and Fossils exhibit, which showcases a variety of life-sized models of dinosaur skeletons, as well as natural fossils found in the park. The exhibit is perfect for those interested in paleontology or those looking to get a glimpse of Texas' prehistoric past.

Overall, the Austin Nature and Science Center is a fun way to spend a day with a teenager, or anyone who enjoys nature and hands-on learning. The park's diverse offerings and exquisite location make it the perfect place to explore and learn while enjoying the beauty of Texas' natural world.

Go to the Austin Zoo

As a parent or guardian, when you plan a trip with a teenager, you must consider their interests and ensure there are things to do that will engage them. One fantastic option for a trip to Austin with a teenager is a visit to the Austin Zoo. Here are some reasons why.

First of all, many teenagers love animals, and the Austin Zoo offers an opportunity to see a variety of them. This is not your typical zoo; the Austin Zoo is a rescue zoo that gives a home to animals that were previously neglected, abused, or orphaned. These animals have a unique story, and their caretakers prioritize their well-being, making it an excellent educational experience for your teenager.

In addition to the animals, the Austin Zoo has plenty of activities that appeal to teenagers. They have a petting zoo where your teenager can get up close and personal with some of the animals, and volunteers are usually around to answer any questions they might have about the animals or the zoo itself.

The Austin Zoo also offers fun events and adventures that your teenager can enjoy. For example, they have a nocturnal experience where visitors can see how animals behave at night. There’s also a zip line course that lets visitors see the zoo from a new perspective, and a train ride around the perimeter of the park.

Besides being an exciting activity for your teenager, a trip to the Austin Zoo also supports a good cause. By supporting the zoo, you’re helping to fund the care and upkeep of the animals and contribute to their overall well-being.

In conclusion, taking a trip to the Austin Zoo with a teenager is an excellent idea. It offers the chance to see a variety of animals up close and participate in fun activities, all while supporting a good cause. So, if you’re planning a trip to Austin with a teenager, consider adding the Austin Zoo to your itinerary.

Have fun at Pinballz Arcade

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Original Pinballz Arcade
Type	Video arcade in Austin, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 2,770
Address	8940 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78758
Phone	(512) 420-8458
Hours	Thursday - 11 AM–12 AM Friday - 11 AM–2 AM Saturday - 10 AM–2 AM Sunday - 10 AM–10 PM Monday - 11 AM–12 AM Tuesday - 11 AM–12 AM Wednesday - 11 AM–12 AM
Profiles

If you're planning a trip to Austin with a teenager, you may be wondering what to do that will make everyone happy. One great option is to visit Pinballz Arcade.

Pinballz is a classic arcade with a modern twist. It has a wide variety of games, from vintage pinball machines to new video games. There are also classic carnival games like skee-ball and basketball.

What makes Pinballz unique is that it has multiple locations across Austin, so no matter where you are staying, there's probably a Pinballz nearby. Each location has a slightly different feel and selection of games, so it's worth visiting more than one.

In addition to the games, Pinballz offers food and drinks, including beer and wine for the adults. They also occasionally host special events like trivia nights and karaoke contests.

For teenagers who are fans of retro gaming, Pinballz is especially appealing. They can experience the joy of playing games on original machines from the 70s and 80s, as well as newer games that still have that vintage feel.

Pinballz can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so plan to visit during off-peak times if possible. And if you have a large group, consider booking a party package, which includes a private room, food, and game tokens.

Overall, Pinballz Arcade is a fun and unique activity to do with a teenager in Austin. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a casual player, you're sure to have a great time.

Go to Topgolf for golfing and other games

Are you planning a trip to Austin with your teenager? There are plenty of fun things to do in this exciting city that both of you can enjoy. One of the best places to hang out with your teenager in Austin is Topgolf.

Topgolf is the premier golf entertainment venue that blends technology and entertainment to provide a unique golfing experience. Golfing has never been more exciting and entertaining than at Topgolf, which is why it's a great destination for teenagers. Your teenager will love to swing the club and try to hit the targets at this driving range style venue. The facility also offers a variety of games such as Topgolf Crush, Toptracer Range, and Super Scoring games that will keep your teenager engaged for hours.

Topgolf provides a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for both experienced and novice golfers. The venue is designed to make golf fun for everyone, even non-golfers. You don't need to have any prior golf experience to enjoy the games provided at Topgolf. Golf experts are also on-hand to offer tips and guidance on how to play the game.

Visiting Topgolf with your teenager is a great way to make lasting memories. It's also an excellent way to spend quality bond time with your teenager. They'll love the fun games, hitting targets and scoring points, plus the delicious food and drinks available at this venue.

In conclusion, Topgolf is an excellent destination for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers alike. As a parent, you should visit Topgolf with your teenager because it's an excellent way to bond, create memories and have a great time together. Don't forget to plan your visit to Topgolf Austin to experience the fun-filled golfing extravaganza.

Frequently asked questions