20 Summer Bucket List Activities in the Austin Area for Families
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From splashing around at water parks to enjoying outdoor concerts and farm visits, there are plenty of fun and unique activities for families to enjoy in the Austin area this summer. Here are some top picks to add to your summer bucket list.
1. Explore the Austin Nature & Science Center
June–August
Discover the wonders of nature and science with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and a Dino Pit. The center offers a great opportunity for kids to learn and explore in a fun, educational setting.
Location: 2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746
More Info: Austin Nature & Science Center
2. Catch a Movie at the Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In
June–August
Experience a classic drive-in movie with a modern twist. The Blue Starlite offers a unique movie-going experience with a variety of family-friendly films.
Location: 2015 E M. Franklin Ave, Austin, TX 78723
More Info: Blue Starlite Drive-In
3. Cool Off at Barton Springs Pool
June–August
Barton Springs Pool, fed by natural springs, maintains a cool temperature year-round, making it a perfect spot to beat the summer heat.
Location: 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
More Info: Barton Springs Pool
4. Enjoy Outdoor Concerts at Zilker Park
June–August
Pack a picnic and enjoy live music at Zilker Park. Check the local event calendar for a schedule of family-friendly concerts throughout the summer.
Location: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
More Info: Zilker Park
5. Visit Sweet Eats Fruit Farm
June–August
Spend a day at Sweet Eats Fruit Farm picking your own fruit, enjoying farm animals, and participating in various farm activities.
Location: 14400 E State Hwy 29, Georgetown, TX 78626
More Info: Sweet Eats Fruit Farm
6. Take a Trip to Inner Space Cavern
June–August
Escape the heat by exploring the cool depths of Inner Space Cavern. The guided tours are educational and fascinating for kids and adults alike.
Location: 4200 S I-35 Frontage Rd, Georgetown, TX 78626
More Info: Inner Space Cavern
7. Attend the Zilker Summer Musical
July 7–August 12
Enjoy a family-friendly musical under the stars at the Zilker Hillside Theater. This free event is a beloved Austin tradition.
Location: 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78704
More Info: Zilker Summer Musical
8. Explore the Thinkery
June–August
Visit the Thinkery, Austin’s children’s museum, for interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences focused on science, technology, engineering, and math.
Location: 1830 Simond Ave, Austin, TX 78723
More Info: Thinkery
9. Splash Around at Typhoon Texas
June–August
Spend a day cooling off at Typhoon Texas Waterpark with its exciting water slides, lazy river, and wave pool.
Location: 18500 TX-130 North Service Road, Pflugerville, TX 78660
More Info: Typhoon Texas
10. Visit the Austin Aquarium
June–August
The Austin Aquarium offers a hands-on experience with marine life, reptiles, birds, and other animals. It’s an educational and entertaining experience for kids of all ages.
Location: 13530 US-183 #101, Austin, TX 78750
More Info: Austin Aquarium
11. Kayak on Lady Bird Lake
June–August
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Lady Bird Lake. It’s a fun way to stay active and enjoy the beautiful scenery of downtown Austin.
Location: 74 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701
More Info: Lady Bird Lake
12. Explore McKinney Falls State Park
June–August
McKinney Falls offers hiking trails, swimming holes, and beautiful waterfalls. It’s a great spot for a family picnic and outdoor adventure.
Location: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744
More Info: McKinney Falls State Park
13. Visit the Texas State Capitol
June–August
Take a guided tour of the Texas State Capitol and learn about the history and government of Texas. The tours are educational and offer a cool break from the summer heat.
Location: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
More Info: Texas State Capitol
14. Go Biking on the Veloway
June–August
The Veloway in South Austin is a paved trail dedicated to cyclists and rollerbladers. It’s a safe and scenic spot for family biking adventures.
Location: 4900 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
More Info: The Veloway
15. Check Out the Austin Zoo
June–August
The Austin Zoo provides a sanctuary for rescued animals and offers educational programs and animal encounters. It’s a fun and compassionate way to spend a day.
Location: 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736
More Info: Austin Zoo
16. Participate in Bat Watching at Congress Avenue Bridge
June–August
Every evening at sunset, watch as millions of bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. It’s a unique and awe-inspiring sight that’s quintessentially Austin.
Location: 100 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
More Info: Bat Watching
17. Visit the LBJ Presidential Library
June–August
Explore the life and legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson at this fascinating museum. The library offers interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.
Location: 2313 Red River St, Austin, TX 78705
More Info: LBJ Presidential Library
18. Experience the Austin Panic Room
June–August
Challenge your family with an escape room adventure at Austin Panic Room. It’s a fun and thrilling way to work together and solve puzzles.
Location: 1205 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78701
More Info: Austin Panic Room
19. Enjoy a Day at Bull Creek District Park
June–August
Bull Creek offers beautiful hiking trails, swimming areas, and picnic spots. It’s a great place for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation.
Location: 6701 Lakewood Dr, Austin, TX 78731
More Info: Bull Creek District Park
20. Attend the Austin Ice Cream Festival
August 12
Cool off with delicious ice cream from local vendors, enjoy live music, and participate in family-friendly activities at this annual festival.
Location: Fiesta Gardens, 2101 Jesse E. Segovia St, Austin, TX 78702
More Info: Austin Ice Cream Festival
Conclusion
Austin offers a plethora of activities to keep families entertained and cool during the hot summer months. From exploring nature and science to enjoying outdoor concerts and water parks, there’s something for everyone. Make the most of your summer by adding these activities to your family’s bucket list!