20 Things to Do in Austin with Kids in 2024

Since 2014, Austin Aquarium is an interactive entertainment center that offers an engaging experience with once in a lifetime experiences. From the various educational programs that teach and entertain, to the stingray feedings, there is something for everyone here. On top of the wide array of marine life here, the aquarium also has various reptiles, lemurs, and even sloths that visitors can feel in touch tanks. This is a great family friendly destination that provides an immersive experience to the world of sea creatures.

With over 300 animals, Austin Zoo is a nonprofit rescue that focuses on helping animals in need. Here, visitors are provided the opportunity to encounter various species such as primates and big cats. On top of all the traditional animals like lions and tigers, Austin Zoo features a reptile house full of scaly friends. This zoo is a truly meaningful place for visitors to see because they can learn about the dedication they have to rescuing and rehabilitating animals from all over the world.

Thinkery is an indoor and outdoor children’s museum focused on interactive exhibits and offering a hands-on experience to encourage learning and foster curiosity. Through creative workshops and science labs focusing on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) education, Thinkery engages learners in play. They are an inclusive space for the entire community making it one of the best things to do in Texas.

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a beautiful botanical garden with over 284 acres of scenic gardens and nature trails dedicated to native Texas plants. The center provides opportunities to learn about their conservation efforts and about the wildlife through educational activities and their butterfly gardens. There are so many beautiful views at this peaceful retreat making it a great place to learn and appreciate nature as well as being one of the best cheap things to do in Austin .

Open for over 75 years, Peter Pan Mini Golf is an Austin landmark known to be family friendly. This attraction is full of themed obstacles and characters on their two 18-hole courses. This course has gained the reputation of being the place for people of all ages to come and have fun. Also, Peter Pan is conveniently located near Downtown Austin so visitors can go enjoy things to do in Downtown Austin.

Located inside a historic mill, the Science Mill is an interactive museum offering a learning environment for all ages. The museum offers educational fun through its hands-on exhibits, which will start students on the path to a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). Indoor and outdoor activities range from a 3D theater to the Greenhouse; there is so much to learn and see.

Altitude Trampoline Park is an indoor trampoline park franchise offering a variety of jumping activities and family fun. This park features dodgeball, foam pits, and even has fitness classes making it the perfect spot for energetic play. Visitors can also book events and birthday parties here which is great for large families and groups.

Pinballz is an arcade that specializes in classic arcade games and pinball machines. Although it is a retro arcade, Pinballz does have modern arcade games making it enjoyable for both young and old. With something for everyone to do, Pinballz offers a family-friendly environment. They have now expanded to three locations with different attractions at each one so this is a must see for video game and enthusiasts.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark features a variety of thrilling rides. Along with rides, it has many attractions like a wave pool, lazy river, and kids’ splash zone. This park has family attractions for every age and provides a perfect water adventure. Make sure to also check out the dining and shopping it has to offer.

Sweet Berry Farm is a seasonal farm offering strawberry and flower picking. Along with the traditional field picking, the farm offers a corn maze, petting zoo, and many other activities depending on the season. Sweet Berry Farm provides an outdoor day full of family activities and hands-on experience.

The Hideout Theatre is a family-friendly improv theater with interactive performances and shows for all ages. With performances like comedy shows, improv theater, and workshops to learn about the theater, Hideout lets the family get an engaging experience. One thing to note is a weekly family show on Sundays at 4 pm.

With over 80 acres, Austin Nature & Science Center is an educational center focused on nature and wildlife education. From interactive exhibits such as their animal exhibit and dino pit to beautiful nature trails, there is so much to this place. Families have so much to learn and explore here.

Rock’ N River Water Park is a family-friendly park with attractions for all ages. With a wide variety of water slides, a lazy river, and splash pads, it is an exciting and refreshing way to stay cool in the summer. With a ton of things to do, this waterpark gives visitors an adventure without going too far.

Dinosaur Park is an outdoor museum with exact-size dinosaur replicas. With walking trails, educational exhibits, a playground, and a fossil dig, there is so much to do to keep active. Near the dinosaurs, there is information about each species, which makes it a great educational experience. For kids who love dinosaurs, this is a real hidden gem.

The H-E-B Center at Cedar Park is a multi-purpose event venue that hosts various family-friendly events. It features concerts, hockey games, and family shows, providing diverse entertainment options at one location. The event schedule is available on its website, so make sure to check it out.

SeaWorld is a marine park offering an exciting and educational experience with its animal shows and educational programs. Its aquarium exhibits and dolphin shows give families an up-close and personal look at the sea creatures. In addition to all the marine life, the amusement park has various roller coasters, making it a thrilling experience.

Austin’s is an entertainment center with go-kart racing, bumper boats, arcade games, and so much more. With 23 acres, Austin’s offers a variety of activities for all ages. They are also known for their pizza buffet, so be sure to try that out. There is something to do for everyone, and will keep the entire family entertained.

Urban Air Adventure Park is an indoor adventure park franchise of thrilling activities like large-scale trampolines. Along with all the trampolines, they have activities like climbing walls and obstacle courses. There is so much to do; they are a great indoor activity to break the heat and stay cool in summer. This is an excellent way for families to enjoy active play and to compete in different fun activities.

YMCA is a community staple offering family activities and fitness programs for people of all ages. With kids’ camps, sports leagues, and youth programs, there is a wide range of activities for you and your child. They also have swimming lessons for children and adults and other group exercise classes, so this is a great space to be active and start healthy habits.

Pease Park is an urban park with picnic areas, walking trails, and playgrounds. There is so much to do and see with highlights like the splash pad and the treehouse. This park offers a recreational space for families to enjoy nature and the outdoors right in the heart of Austin.