Family-Friendly Activities in Austin You'll Love

Austin is a city bursting with energy, creativity, and outdoor adventure, making it the perfect destination for families looking for affordable ways to explore and unwind. Many of the city’s top kid-approved experiences are free or low-cost, allowing you to stretch your budget and make the most of an extended stay.

Whether you’re after hands-on experiences, wide-open green spaces, or exciting entertainment options, there’s no shortage of family-focused things to do in Austin. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and wide range of activities make it easy for kids and parents alike to enjoy quality time and create lasting memories.

For those planning an extended visit, WoodSpring Suites hotels provide a comfortable and convenient home base, keeping you close to all the family-friendly attractions Austin has to offer.

Ready to plan your next adventure? Here’s a look at some of the best family things to do in Austin that are perfect for your trip!

Interactive Museums for Kids

Austin has a great lineup of museums that make learning genuinely fun for kids. From science experiments and hands-on exhibits to outdoor nature exploration and Texas history, there’s a lot to discover, with many spots offering free or low-cost admission.

Thinkery

A go-to spot for curious young minds, Thinkery is Austin’s top children’s museum. It offers hands-on STEAM-based exhibits designed to spark creativity and critical thinking. 

Kids can splash around in water play zones, build in engineering stations, get messy in art workshops, or relax in sensory-friendly spaces. The museum’s Innovation Lab lets children experiment with robotics and physics, while the Light Lab encourages creativity with color and shadow play. 

For younger kids, the Bloom Room is a fun and interactive garden-themed space for early learning and exploration. And with rotating exhibits and seasonal events, there’s always something new to check out.

Thinkery offers free admission every Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. during Community Hours, thanks to its Open Door Initiative. It also takes part in the Museums for All program, which gives free entry to families with EBT, WIC, STAR, CHIP, Medicaid, MAP/MAP BASIC, or tribal ID cards. 

For families looking to stay close to Thinkery, WoodSpring Suites Austin Central provides a convenient and budget-friendly lodging option nearby.

Bullock Texas State History Museum

Step into the story of Texas at the Bullock Texas State History Museum, where history comes to life through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and immersive experiences. Kids can check out the remains of a real shipwreck, test their skills in a Texas frontier town, and discover the state’s role in space exploration. 

The museum’s IMAX theater shows larger-than-life educational films for a small fee, while the Texas Spirit Theater delivers a multi-sensory experience with effects like rumbling seats and simulated weather.

General admission to the exhibits is free all day on H-E-B Free First Sunday, held on the first Sunday of each month, along with family-friendly activities from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a great way to enjoy the museum without spending extra.

For a comfortable stay near downtown Austin and the Bullock Museum, WoodSpring Suites Austin Central offers a convenient lodging option. The hotel provides extended-stay comfort with apartment-style amenities, including in-room kitchens, free WiFi, and 24/7 guest laundry. This makes it an ideal choice for families and travelers who want to explore Austin’s cultural spots while sticking to a budget.

Austin Nature and Science Center

Situated within Zilker Park, the Austin Nature and Science Center is a hidden gem where families can experience hands-on nature exhibits and outdoor learning activities. General admission is always free.

Kids can explore the Dino Pit, an outdoor paleontology dig where they can uncover fossil replicas, or visit the Wildlife Exhibit, which houses rescued native Texas animals. The center’s eco-friendly Discovery Lab features interactive exhibits on geology, water conservation, and local ecosystems. 

With scenic trails, a natural pond, and a butterfly garden, it’s the perfect place for children to learn about the natural world while spending time outdoors.

For families seeking accommodations near Austin’s outdoor attractions, WoodSpring Suites Austin South Central I-35 offers a comfortable stay close to Zilker Park and the Austin Nature and Science Center. 

 

Outdoor Adventures for the Whole Family

Austin’s parks and outdoor attractions offer plenty of family things to do in Austin, making it easy for families to enjoy time together. From hiking and swimming to just relaxing in a shady park, there’s no shortage of places to explore, play, and connect with nature.

Zilker Park

Located just minutes from downtown Austin, Zilker Park is one of Austin’s best spots for a family day outside. Kids can play on the playgrounds, ride the Zilker Eagle mini train, or splash in the Barton Springs Splash Pad. Even better, on the first Friday of every month, individual train tickets are free all day during Bill Wood Foundation Community Hours.

With wide-open fields perfect for frisbee, soccer, or picnics, there’s plenty of space to relax and unwind. The park also hosts seasonal events like the Zilker Kite Festival and Blues on the Green that offer free entertainment for all ages, making it a fun spot year-round.

After a day of trains, splash pads, and running around the park, families often need a nearby place to relax and recharge. WoodSpring Suites Austin South Central I-35 is just a short drive from Zilker Park, offering affordable extended-stay accommodations with full kitchens, on-site laundry, and pet-friendly options—perfect for families visiting Austin.

Barton Springs Pool

Located within Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring-fed swimming pool that stays a cool 68–70°F year-round. Families can swim, splash, or lounge on the grassy banks, making it the perfect spot to cool off during the Texas heat. With lifeguards on duty and plenty of space to stretch out, it’s a fun and easy place to spend an afternoon outdoors. Children under one year of age and veterans get free access. General admission is $5–9 for adults and $2–4 for kids, depending on residency and season.

If Barton Springs is on your list, having a comfortable place nearby can help keep things low-stress, especially with kids in tow. WoodSpring Suites Austin South Central I-35 is just a short drive from the pool, offering spacious suites, full kitchens, and budget-friendly rates. It’s a great home base for families exploring Austin’s outdoor attractions.

Mayfield Park

For a more peaceful and completely free family outing, Mayfield Park offers lush gardens, easy hiking trails, and a chance to spot its famous free-roaming peacocks. 

Kids will love exploring the ponds filled with koi fish and walking along the shaded trails, while parents can relax in the scenic picnic areas. The park is great for wildlife watching, photography, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature.

And with WoodSpring Suites Austin North I-35 just a short drive from Mayfield Park, it’s easy to make a low-key park visit part of your stay. The hotel offers affordable, family-friendly accommodations with full kitchens, pet-friendly rooms, and weekly and monthly rates—perfect for extended stays with family.

 

Animal Encounters and Zoos

If you love animals and the outdoors, you'll find plenty of low-cost things to do in Austin with your family. Get up close with animals, learn about conservation, and explore Texas’ natural beauty. From watching bats take flight at sunset to visiting rescue zoos and butterfly gardens, these outings mix fun with a bit of nature and learning.

Austin Zoo

A rescue-focused wildlife sanctuary, Austin Zoo is home to over 300 animals, including big cats, primates, reptiles, and native Texas species. 

Unlike traditional zoos, this nonprofit facility provides a safe haven for rescued and rehabilitated animals. This is a great place for families to learn about conservation while observing animals in a relaxed, natural setting. 

General admission tickets range from $15.95 (children ages 2–12) to $18.95 (adults 13–59), and children under 2 are admitted free. 

Kids will love the interactive petting zoo, where they can feed goats, llamas, and deer. Families can take a ride on the Zoo Train for a scenic tour of the grounds.

For those looking to stay near this wildlife sanctuary, WoodSpring Suites Austin South Central I-35 offers a comfortable lodging option just a short drive away.

Congress Avenue Bridge (Bat Watching)

One of Austin’s most iconic natural attractions, the Congress Avenue Bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Every evening from March to October, over 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge at sunset, creating a breathtaking spectacle as they fill the sky. 

Families can gather along the bridge, watch from the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, or take a bat-watching boat tour on Lady Bird Lake for a closer view of this natural wonder. This unique Austin experience is both entertaining and educational, offering kids a chance to learn about bat conservation and their role in the ecosystem. 

For a completely cost-free experience, head to the Austin American-Statesman’s Bat Observation Area on the southeast side of Congress Avenue. Viewing there is always free, so you can enjoy the show without spending a dime.

Since the bats take flight around sunset, it’s helpful to stay close so you’re not rushing back late with tired kids. WoodSpring Suites Austin Central is just a short drive from the bridge and Lady Bird Lake, making it easy to enjoy the evening show without a long trip afterward.

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

For families looking to experience Texas’ native wildlife and plant species, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a must-visit. This botanical garden and nature preserve features walking trails, butterfly habitats, and kid-friendly exhibits designed to inspire a love for nature. 

Kids can explore the Family Garden, where they can climb giant tree stumps, wade through the creek, and play in a nature-inspired fort. The center’s beautiful wildflower meadows attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and local wildlife, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful outdoor adventure.

Plus, take advantage of two free-admission programs: Wild Wednesdays offer free entry on the last Wednesday of each month, thanks to the Tres Grace Family Foundation. While the schedule stays fairly consistent, it's a good idea to check their website for this year’s exact dates and themes.

For families looking to stay close to this nature-filled retreat, WoodSpring Suites Austin South Central I-35 offers a convenient and affordable lodging option nearby. 

 

Family-Friendly Entertainment and Events

Austin is known for its lively entertainment scene and year-round events, many of which are perfect for families. If you're searching for things to do in Austin today with family, the city has plenty of options. 

Whether you're looking for a fun movie night, dazzling holiday lights, or a quirky local festival, these family-friendly experiences are sure to create lasting memories.

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (Kids’ Screenings)

A beloved Austin institution, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema offers a unique movie-going experience with a focus on fun, comfort, and great food. Families can enjoy Kids’ Screenings, which feature age-appropriate films, interactive elements, and a welcoming atmosphere for young movie lovers. 

Kids Camp gives families an affordable way to enjoy great films together during holiday breaks. Pick a ticket price of $1, $3, or $5 online and reserve seats in advance.

Parents will appreciate the strict no-talking policy, which keeps distractions down and lets everyone focus on the story. The theater also offers special event screenings with fun themes, interactive props, and surprises that make every visit memorable.

For families planning to catch a film or two while in town, WoodSpring Suites Austin Central puts you close to several top entertainment spots. It’s a practical choice for families, with budget-friendly suites, in-room kitchens, and room to relax after a night at the movies.

Trail of Lights

One of Austin’s most magical holiday traditions, the Trail of Lights transforms Zilker Park into a dazzling winter wonderland each December. This massive holiday display features over 2 million twinkling lights, animated displays, and a giant glowing Christmas tree. 

Families can stroll through themed light tunnels, enjoy live music, and indulge in seasonal treats from local vendors. 

Kids will love meeting Santa Claus, riding the Zilker Holiday Tree carousel, and taking in the festive atmosphere. The Trail of Lights Fun Run also adds an extra element of excitement for active families.

General admission prices vary depending on the night. Kids 11 and under get in free with a ticketed adult. On select nights in December, admission is free for everyone. It’s a great way to enjoy the holiday lights without stretching your budget.

For those visiting Austin during the holiday season, WoodSpring Suites Austin South Central I-35 provides a great lodging option close to Zilker Park’s festive celebrations.

Eeyore’s Birthday Party

One of Austin’s most quirky and family-friendly festivals, Eeyore’s Birthday Party is a colorful, free-spirited event held each spring at Pease Park. What started as a small picnic inspired by A.A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh character has evolved into a day-long celebration of creativity, community, and a little bit of weirdness. Best of all, the party is completely free to attend—no tickets required.

Families can enjoy face painting, games, live music, and pony rides, while grown-ups can join in drum circles, costume contests, and creative activities scattered throughout the park. With food vendors, live entertainment, and an emphasis on community, this unique event is a perfect blend of playful and offbeat, just like Austin itself.

After a day of music, costumes, and park adventures, head back to WoodSpring Suites Austin Central, a comfortable and affordable place to recharge. Grab groceries from H-E-B or Fiesta Mart to cook in-room, or treat the kids to $3 tacos from El Primo food truck or weekday kids-eat-free deals at Kerbey Lane.

 

Stay Close to the Action with WoodSpring Suites Hotels

Austin’s parks, trails, museums, and quirky festivals make it a great city for outdoor adventures and family fun, and staying with WoodSpring Suites hotels puts you right where you want to be. With convenient locations throughout the city, our extended-stay hotels provide affordable, comfortable accommodations near some of Austin’s top destinations. 

Whether you're planning a hiking adventure, a day at the park, or a visit to one of the city’s many nature-focused attractions, WoodSpring Suites locations keep you close to the action while offering the comforts of home.

• WoodSpring Suites Austin South Central I-35 – Ideal for those exploring Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, and the Congress Avenue Bridge bat-watching experience.

• WoodSpring Suites Austin Central – A great option for families visiting the Thinkery, Bullock Texas State History Museum, and Pease Park.

• WoodSpring Suites Austin North I-35 – Conveniently located near Mayfield Park, where families can enjoy lush gardens, koi ponds, and free-roaming peacocks—all with no admission fee.

• WoodSpring Suites Round Rock - Austin North – This hotel provides easy access to outdoor adventures just outside the city while keeping you close to Austin’s vibrant attractions.

• WoodSpring Suites Cedar Park - Austin North – An excellent choice for families seeking a quieter stay with access to Austin’s best parks and trails.

• WoodSpring Suites Austin Georgetown – Great for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty and historic charm of the Austin-Georgetown area.

With affordable extended stay weekly rates and hotels with monthly rates, WoodSpring Suites hotels let you explore everything Austin has to offer while enjoying a comfortable, stress-free stay. 

Book your stay today and discover why WoodSpring Suites hotel is the best choice for long-term travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.