Austin, Texas, the “Live Music Capital of the World,” is more than just a hotspot for vibrant entertainment and culinary delights. It’s also a treasure trove of budget-friendly activities perfect for family outings. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for family-friendly fun, Austin offers plenty of free or inexpensive options. Here’s your guide to exploring the heart of Austin without breaking the bank.
Fun and Free Things to Do in Austin with Kids
1. Day Trip to the Hill Country
Leave the city and head out to the Texas Hill Country. For hiking, scenic views, and family picnics amidst nature, go to Lockhart State Park.
2. Tour the Texas State Capitol
No visit to Austin is complete without visiting the Texas State Capitol, a National Historic Landmark. The Texas State Capital will allow you to come closer to the culture of Austin and enjoy the rich history of the area. Free guided tours take you through the chambers where Texas lawmakers meet, while the grounds are perfect for a picnic surrounded by historical monuments. Kids will enjoy the scavenger hunt-style exploration while soaking in Texas history.
3. Stroll Through Zilker Park
Zilker Park is at the heart of Austin’s outdoor scene. Let your kids run free on expansive green lawns or explore the Zilker Botanical Garden. Barton Springs Pool, a spring-fed pool that stays at a pleasant 68 degrees year-round, is not to be missed. Reservations are recommended, but the experience is worth it even if you don’t put in a single penny.
4. See the Iconic Congress Avenue Bats
During spring and summer, see 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats take flight over the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. It’s an incredible sight and a great learning opportunity for kids. Tip: Arrive early to get a good view.
5. UMLAUF Sculpture Garden
For art lovers, the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum is a peaceful oasis. This grade is heaven for those who are looking to enjoy the artistic background of Austin. Hike through shaded trails with sculptures by Charles Umlauf that kids will love seeing outdoors.
6. Capture Iconic Murals
Austin’s murals are a wonderful piece of art to enjoy. Take a self-guided mural tour and view the most popular works like “Greetings from Austin” on South First Street or “I Love You So Much” on South Congress. Carry your camera or mobile phone because it is the spot where you will click the majority of your pictures in Austin. The bright colors of the background become great family photos.
7. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures at Lady Bird Lake
Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards and paddle through the serene waters of Lady Bird Lake. Go out and you will find that Austin is loaded with the outdoor stuff to do. Or bike or walk along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, a 10-mile trail offering great views of the Austin skyline.
8. Experience Black History and Culture
Explore Austin’s African American heritage with tours from Six Square or the Black History Bike Ride. These interactive experiences are both educational and fun for families of all ages.
9. Explore the Blanton Museum of Art
Art enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Blanton Museum of Art, with its extensive collection of works. Admission is free on Thursdays, making this a budget-friendly cultural outing for the family.
10. See Nature at Mayfield Park
Take a quiet walk through Mayfield Park. The beautiful gardens and strutting peacocks are hidden jewels in this neighborhood. It is perfect for a family walk, as well as peaceful family time.
11. Splash into History in Austin’s Historic Pools
Cool off in the state’s oldest swimming pool, Deep Eddy Pool, or splash it out at the splash zones in Mueller Lake Park, where the kids can enjoy playground fun. Either location is ideal for creating great summer memories.
12. Live Music for All-Ages FREE
Austin has the best live music scene. Find free outdoor shows at the Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park or newer bands at the likes of Güero’s Taco Bar, which features delicious tacos along with the music.
13. Immerse yourself in the Cultural Campus
Take your family on a cultural journey by visiting the Harry Ransom Center, the LBJ Presidential Library, or the Texas Science and Natural History Museum. These institutions provide interactive exhibits that capture the interests of both children and adults.
14. Experience Family-Friendly Festivals
Free Austin events are always available, ranging from spring ABC Kite Fest to Pecan Street Festival art booths, all of which are fun, festive, and replete with local flavor.
15. Be Inspired by Thinkers Creativity
Allow your children to have fun while expressing their creativity at Thinkery. It is a hands-on, interactive children’s museum with interesting exhibits like climbing structures and experiments involving water, which make the educational experience all the more interactive and fun.
16. Explore the Tejano Walking Trail
The Tejano Walking Trail is a self-guided walking tour of 20 important Hispanic cultural sites in East Austin. It’s an excellent way to expose your family to the diversity of the city.
17. Chill at Auditorium Shores
Pack a picnic and head to Auditorium Shores by Lady Bird Lake. This family-friendly park is perfect for kite flying, playing fetch with your dog, or just soaking in views of the city skyline.
18. Hike Mount Bonnell
For panoramic views, hike up the stone steps of Mount Bonnell. It’s one of Austin’s most iconic landmarks, offering a rewarding outdoor adventure for families.
19. Enjoy Food Truck Treats
Austin has some of the world’s best food trucks. Visit The Picnic, a park that hosts all sorts of food trucks from Thai food to gourmet lobster rolls. Dine outdoors with your family without breaking the bank.
20. Enjoy Free Symphony Concerts
The Austin Symphony Orchestra offers free concerts during the summer at the Long Center. Bring a picnic, lie under the stars, and let the symphony entertain your family.
21. Visit the Mexic-Arte Museum
Experience vibrant Mexican and Latin American art at the Mexic-Arte Museum. This museum holds a cultural significance in the history of Austin, hence you must give it a try. It’s a great cultural immersion for the whole family, and they offer free admission on Sundays.
22. Bike Through the Greenbelt
You can bike through the Barton Creek Greenbelt on its biking and hiking trails and discover hidden gems like Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls. Pack your snacks and it will be an all-day adventure outdoors.
23. Explore Vintage Shops in North Loop
Shopping in local vintage shops can be a fun family activity when hunting for treasures among older kids in Austin’s odd, quirky culture at locations like Room Service Vintage.
24. Learn at the Governor’s Mansion
Stroll through some of Texas’ past governors with tours of this historic Texas Governor’s Mansion to learn more about governors’ lives.
Conclusion
All in all, Austin proves that incredible family adventures don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Whether you’re exploring art, history, nature, or music, the city offers countless free or affordable experiences to make your family trip unforgettable. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the best of Austin!
