7 Fun Things to Do With Kids in Austin, Texas

A vacation to Austin might be just what your kids need! This city, known for its outstanding food and general quirkiness, is increasingly growing in popularity as a place to visit due to its vibrant culture and breathtaking nature spots.

This city offers plenty of family-friendly activities, so surely, your children will enjoy the time they spend there. Continue to read and find cool things to do in Austin with kids. 

1. Austin Aquarium 

If you're avoiding outdoor activities due to the cold weather during this time of the year, a visit to Austin Aquarium is perfect for you.

Indoor and family-friendly, the Austin Aquarium is one of the few places in America where people can interact closely with lemurs. Plus, during the scheduled feedings, kids can get pretty close to tortoises, iguanas, stingrays, and sharks. So, if your kids like animals, you can't miss it. 

Do you think that's all? There more! You can check out some of the many exhibits, get your kid a princess makeover or show them the aquarium's mermaids!

2. Austin Nature & Science Center

If your kids are into science, you must visit the Austin Nature and Science Center. Unlike most museums, kids can touch things and are encouraged to do so. 

You'll be able to explore a bunch of science and nature-based exhibits and learn about the native wildlife in Texas. 

Visit the Naturalist Workshop to touch insects, plants, rocks, bones, and animal furs, and check them closely with magnifying glasses. 

Then, head to the Dino Pit. This outdoor exhibit will get kids digging for fossils from ancient Texas!

Outside, you can stroll around the pond walk to find out more about pond life and water systems. If you're lucky, you might spot a turtle basking in the sun. 

There is no paid admission for those visiting the exhibits, but donations are accepted. 

3. Museum of The Weird

Searching for unique activities for children? Pop in the Museum of the Weird. Your children will be intrigued by the variety of peculiar things, ranging from the Fiji mermaid to the Texas bigfoot. 

Located in the same building as Lucky Lizard Curios & Gifts, this quirky place is great for families that want a "different" activity. Check out the "Cabinet of Curiosities" and see which mermaids, cryptids, mummies, movie props, and fossils seem familiar. 

Then, explore the legendary "Creature in Ice," featured on Unsolved Mysteries and Mysteries at the Museum. 

4. Horseback Riding

Don't know what to do when you visit Austin Texas? Just fifteen minutes from downtown Austin, you can have a wonderful experience with your kids exploring the Texas Hill Country on horseback. 

Horseback riding can be so beneficial! It improves balance, coordination, and core strength and lowers stress levels. So, why not give it a go? 

You don't need to have any previous experience to engage in this activity! We have highly trained guides that will guarantee you have a smooth experience.

Also, we have the friendliest horses, and our trail ride is truly scenic, so make sure you don't miss out. 

5. Inner Space Cavern

Are you thinking of adventurous things to do with kids in Austin? Head to the Inner Space Cavern, an incredibly well-preserved cave system (perhaps the best-preserved one in Texas). Your children will learn about various rock formations by the end of the tour. 

The cavern tour is suitable for all ages. However, strollers aren't allowed, so you'll have to carry your kid during the tour. 

Families with kids under five can join the beginner's Adventure Tour while older children (seven and over) can explore the Hidden Passages Tour. Finally, the Wild Cave Tour is recommended for families with teens (over 13 years of age). 

6. Thinkery

The Thinkery (formerly Austin's Children's Museum) is a fantastic place to visit during your trip to Austin, so spend a morning there with your children! There, they will join activities that will foster their creativity!

Pop in the Innovators Workshop to invent and make things, and then explore the motion and physics in the Ready, Set, Roll exhibit. Also, don't forget to check the water feature since it's pretty popular! (they provide aprons for children). 

Due to COVID-19, book your place in advance, as space is limited.

7. Austin Toy Museum

Are you searching for things to do with children? The Austin Toy Museum is suitable for all ages!

There, you'll be able to show your kids the different toys you used to play with or the ones that were popular back then. 

Expect to see Smurf and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle figurines, the original Barbie and Ken (and their iconic outfits in the '60s), and a large comic book collection. 

There are also multiple vintage video arcade games you and your kids are free to play with your admission ticket, including Donkey Kong, Star Wars Pinball, The Oregon Trail, and Pac-Man. Indeed, it will make the mums and dads feel nostalgic.

Things To Do In Austin With Kids

Your kids certainly don't want to spend every moment stuck at home! So, take them out for a day trip or a weekend away!

There are so many things to do in Austin with kids, and they'll certainly appreciate you for picking activities they enjoy. 

Are you interested in fun, outdoorsy, family-friendly activities? We provide the best horseback riding experience for families with kids! Check out our website and book your adventure now!

Cole Dansie