Go Ice Skating On A Rooftop
If youll be in Austin with kids during the winter, be sure to bring your family ice skating! One of the most exciting winter things to do in Austin is skating at the CultureMap Rooftop Rink at Whole Foods Markets downtown location. Each year, Whole Foods turns its entire rooftop into a thrilling skating rink for locals and tourists to enjoy. Here, your family can grab food and drinks at Whole Foods, then head up to the rooftop for a round of ice skating. Typically open from the end of November through January, it is open daily with the recommendation to purchase tickets online in advance for a designated time slot. Note, all tickets include the skate rentals, as well as the requirement to sign a waiver.
Learn more about how the Rooftop Rink at Whole Foods Market is addressing COVID-19 by emailing them directly: .
See The Bats Under Congress Avenue Bridge
Austin boasts the largest urban bat colony in the world. On summer evenings, tourists and locals alike line the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge to watch an estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge in search of food.
Bats usually emerge from under the bridge most evenings and create quite a scene .
If you choose to base yourself near the bridge near nightfall, bring something to protect yourselves from falling guano. Other options are a kayak tour on Lady Bird Lake, riding a Segway, or taking a boat ride to see the bats from a different point of view.
Visit A Free Splash Pad
Whether youre in need of some cooling off or the little ones are getting antsy while youre shopping in downtown Round Rock, youll be able to do either at this free splash pad in Main Street Plaza. Its a great family-friendly activity to add to your list of things to do, especially in the Texas heat!
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Thank You To Our Community
A special thank you to the Families Who Love To Travel Facebook community who generously shared their travel advice and top picks for this list of Best Things to Do in Austin with Kids We could not have compiled such a thoughtful and helpful list without their dedication to our community. Families Who Love To Travel is a group of amazing families who love exploring through travel. For more family vacation recommendations and inspiration, be sure to join us on Facebook at Families Who Love To Travel. Were a community of experienced traveling families who love adventure and seeing the world with kids. Plus, follow us on Instagram to connect with other families who love the unique experiences travel has to offer.
A special thank you to our FLT contributor Erin Gray for helping us compile suggestions for this list!
*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the things to do in Austin with kids on this list may have reduced services or may temporarily close at times. Please ensure availability before making your decision. Find information on COVID-19 practices and policies for Austin here.
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Walk The Lady Bird Lake Hike And Bike Trail With A Friend
Grab a friend, put the toddler in a stroller, and enjoy a walk around the lake. This fantastic trail has lots of options so you can customize your own distance. The lake is set right against a backdrop of downtown Austin, and this is one of my favorite places to go to start or end my day. Multiple entrance points | WEBSITE
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Stay At The Ruby Hotel
This stylish, boutique hotel near downtown Round Rock includes a moody bar hitched to a patio overlooking Brushy Creek, a gym, an outdoor pool, as well as pet-friendly and accessible rooms. The rooms come in blue or green with a furnished, outdoor patio or balcony. Some of the rooms even overlook Brushy Creek for unforgettable views no matter the time of day! Read about our stay at the Ruby Hotel and learn about how the Ruby Hotel came to fruition.
Pioneer Farms Round Rock
Pioneer Farms
The Pioneer Farms was initially owned by Lt. James O. Rice in 1844.
It is one of the farms in the city which is now a popular tourist attraction site.
Here, visitors can travel back in time to the 19th century.
This living history museum offers visitors a tour through seven themed historic areas.
Youll be able to explore a wide range of Texas history on its over 90 beautiful, wooded acres.
Highlights in this farm and museum include an 1844 Tonkawa Encampment, an 1873 Jourdan Farm, and an 1886 Bell Farm.
Visitors can move through the farm looking at exhibits and taking pictures of them.
Final Remarks
Truly, several vacation experiences can help one discover Round Rock better.
Apart from enjoying a unique session exploring the city, there are countless activities you can try anew.
Create memories and spend time doing what you love the most.
In all, youd enjoy everything you try to do in the city.
Safe Travels.
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Entertainment And Game Centers
Play all day at one of our gaming and entertainment centers. We have a diverse range of spots with kid-centered games and entertainment. Turn on vacation mode at one of these exciting places!
Spend the day adventuring through 80,000 square feet of indoor adventure park fun at Kalaharis Tom Foolerys. Practice your gaming skills with 250 arcade games or brush up on your climbing techniques with the climbing walls and ropes courses, and so much more.
+ Things To Do This Weekend In Round Rock Tx
It isnt uncommon for Texas travelers to not know much about Round Rock and, as a result, they just drive right through it on their way to Austin or Waco. However, Round Rock makes for an eventful road trip stop or even a full-on weekend getaway! Its home to iconic things to do like the largest indoor waterpark in the country, an underwater themed bowling alley, two-pound donuts, plus an abundance of parks, boutiques, and family-friendly activities!
Now that your interest has been piqued, when youre on the hunt for things to do in Round Rock this weekend, you know exactly what to expect. Dont forget to check out our guide on where to eat in Round Rock to avoid any hangry episodes on your next Texas getaway.
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Shop Around Downtown Round Rock
If you dont shop around downtown Round Rocks boutiques and shops this weekend, youre missing out. At Hometown Gift & Decor, youll find Round Rock and Texas themed souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and even a whole room full of the cutest baby clothes! The Mercantile on Main/Haute Boutique is another local boutique full of clothes, shoes, and even more Texas themed goods to raise your Southern Hospitality game. They also offer complimentary snacks, drinks, and popsicles!
For even more shopping adventures and things to do in Round Rock, pop into Rhae Boutique, Mays Street Boutique, Tammy Kays Boutique, and Cristales.
Cinemark 14 Round Rock
In search of things to do in Round Rock for some movie time? Take to spending som fun time in Cinemark 14 Round Rock to catch some of your favorite movies.
The Cinemark 14 Round Rock is a 14-screen movie theater that displays first-run movies using state-of-the-art digital projection and RealD 3D.
The theater offers many great features like stadium seating, self-service ticketing, arcade games, a party hall to include a snack bar with food and drinks.
This can make a romantic time at the movies, quite an addition to your bucket ist of Round Rock TX attractions to visit during your trip.
Address: 4401 N Ih 35, Ste 3000, Round Rock, Texas, 78664.
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Austin: Taco Breakfast Tour
Make your way around South Austin with a fun tour guide, stopping in at 3 different spots in the area to grab a bite on the Austin: Taco Breakfast Tour. The official breakfast of Austin is undeniably breakfast tacos, so what better way to experience it all than on our tour. You will explore the neighborhoods of South Austin and share some of the best tacos and guacamole your tastebuds have ever come in contact with.
Come hungry and end the tour with a full belly, ready to see what the city of Austin has to offer!
Why You Should Go
If youre just looking for somewhere to lounge at and rest for a while during your sightseeing trip, this plaza is the place to go.
You can sit on the lawn, walk around the grounds, or wait for the bats to emerge from the observation deck.
If youre lucky, you might even see a special light show or concert while youre here.
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Test Your Ninja Skills
Whether youre an avid ax-thrower or youre trying it out for the first-time, Top-Notch Axe Throwing should be a non-negotiable on your list of things to do in Round Rock this weekend. Youll start out with a short lesson beforehand, along with the safety guidelines. There are a variety of axes with different weights, including kid axes! You can also try throwing darts, ninja stars, throwing cards, and they even have balloon popping games they can set up for you so you can work on your precision.
You can bring in your own food and drink and they even have a deal with Papa Johns next door where theyll bring your food over if you order carry out. Top-Notch Axe Throwing also has its own selection of drinks if youd like.
Mayfield Park And Nature Preserve
When you feel the need to escape the city and spend some time in a peaceful outdoor space you can make your way to Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve. The park is located next to the Laguna Gloria Museum in Tarrytown and offers a serene environment for walking and nature observation. The preserve covers over 21 acres of natural green space where you can go walking along trails through a wildlife habitat. The park area offers over two acres of cultivated cottage gardens surrounded by towering palm trees and patrolled by a squad of resident peacocks who strut their stuff to the delight of both adults and children.
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve, 3505 W. 35th St, Austin, TX 78703, Phone: 512-974-6797
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Austin Zoo And Animal Sanctuary
The Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary provides rescue, rehabilitation and a safe place to live for a large variety of injured, orphaned or abandoned animals and relies on public donation and ticket sales to operate. The zoo is home to over 350 animals and your children will love the opportunity to see a wide range of rescued animals including several big cats, three young black bears, several species of monkeys and lemurs. In addition to all these exotic animals the zoo also cares for several domestic animals including pot-bellied pigs, goats, donkeys and llama, which the children can hand-feed animal feed is available at the gift shop.
Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary, 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736, Phone: 512-288-1490
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Kalahari Resorts And Conventions
We have to start our kid-friendly list with the newly opened Kalahari Resorts and Conventions. This is a kid paradise jam-packed with excitement! The Kalahari resort in Round Rock is home to Americas Largest Indoor Waterpark with 223,000 square feet of entertainment for the whole family. They have 30 waterslides, 20 pools and whirlpools, a wave pool, an adult swim-up bar, private cabanas, a waterfall, and a kiddie pool area. They also have the Tom Foolerys Adventure Park for more kid-friendly thrills, including amusement rides, 250+ arcade games, ropes course, climbing walls, indoor zipline, bowling, laser tag, and a mini-golf course.
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Why Youve Got To Go
Barton Springs Pool is a recreational outdoor public swimming pool located at the picturesque Zilker Metropolitan Park.
It is a popular destination for year-round swimming and uses natural, pristine water from the fourth largest spring in the state, Main Barton Spring.
It offers experienced lifeguards making sure your family can swim safely, different elevations for visitors of every age, and free entrance from November through mid-March.
It sits in a 350-acre park featuring other amenities, like picnic areas, sports fields, nature trails, a botanical garden, a nature center, and more.
Fun Things In Round Rock
Austin suburbs are definitely among some of the greatest places to live, and family-friendly Round Rock is packed with fantastic neighborhoods, great parks, restaurants and attractions. Our Do512 Family Field Expert Amber Martinez-Vasquez, known on social media as Amber Takes Austin, shares 5 of her favorite things for families in Round Rock, Texas.
Play for All ParkLocated near AW Grimes & 79, the Play For All Abilities Park is not your typical playground. With multiple playscapes, a music-creation section, a sand-pit, race track, & a kid-size replica of Downtown Round Rock, this extremely interactive and engaging place is suitable for children of all ages, and all abilities. This place has been a family favorite of ours for years! to read even more about Play for All Park.
Round Rock DonutsIf youre visiting the Round Rock area, your visit is not complete without stopping at the famous Round Rock Donuts & Lonestar Bakery! This establishment is known for their one-of-a-kind and freshly homemade donuts, pastries, cakes, and the Texas-sized Round Rock donut. Fun fact: The unique, orange color of the donuts is from the fresh eggs used to make these tasty treats!
Chisholm Trail Crossing ParkNot far from the hustle and bustle of I-35 is the tranquil and calm environment that is Chisholm Trail Crossing Park. This trail is a perfect place for a weekend nature walk or picnic with the family. Explore the sculpture exhibit and take in the beautiful scenery by the creek!
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Ifly Austin First Time Flyer Experience
This experience may not be at the forefront of your mind when thinking about things to do with kids in Austin, but dont mark this off! iFly Austin First Time Flyer Experience offers a fun indoor skydiving experience for adults and children.
Get ready to get your heart pumping when you head to iFly Austin. This venue is genuinely for first-time flyers, and children as young as 3 years old can fly using their state-of-the-art wind tunnel technologies.
All flyers will receive flying gear included in the cost of the attraction, along with 1-on-1 instruction. Get ready to experience a thrill of a lifetime while visiting Austin.
Austin Nature & Science Center
Austin Science & Nature Center is one of the best kid-friendly activities in Austin. This site has dozens of natural science-related exhibitions. Kids also get to learn a little bit about the native wildlife in Texas.
Take part in a naturalist workshop and explore the furs of animals and different plants. Children are sure to enjoy digging in the Dino Pit, playing outdoors, and learning a little bit as well.
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Hike At Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell is a popular destination in Austin for families. You will climb nearly 800ft and overlook Lake Austin.
It offers spectacular views of the city and is Austins highest point.
Note that climbing the 102 stairs might hinder those carrying strollers from reaching the top.
After climbing up, you will enjoy a panorama view of the lake as the boats sail by. You can visit the deck and pavilion before you descend again. The kids love taking pictures and eating outdoors, while the view is stunning.
Bullock Texas State History Museum
At the Bullock Texas State History Museum children and their parents can spend a few interesting hours learning all about the history of the State of Texas. At the heart of the museum you will find the La Belle Exhibit, featuring the hull of a 1686 explorer ship which lay under the seas for over 300 years. Together with the retrieved and restored hull of the ship you can see many artifacts and watch the multi-sensory film Ship Wrecked. Other highlights of the museum include a 1941 AT-6A airplane, a full-size windmill, the IMAX Theater and a NASA console from the Manned Flight Center. On the first Sunday of each month the museum offers free entrance and special activities for children.
Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Ave, Austin TX 78701, Phone: 512-936-8746
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Uncle Bucks Fish Bowl & Grill
Milwaukee / Uncle Bucks Fish Bowl & Grill
It is said that bowlers have a special dining area after a game of bowling.
And just like that, theres a unique place to enjoy a game of bowling and then a delectable meal.
At Uncle Bucks Fishbowl and Grill, you can have a blast alone or with partners.
Start off your experience with bowling in the Oceans Bowl.
Bowling here offers visitors a distinctive underwater ocean experience on several lanes.
Youll find bowling balls with images of mermaids, octopuses, and so much more.
Further into the facility, youll find underwater scenes of sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays, by the Dock wooden lanes.
While sea diving, youll find a fish theme dangling from the ceiling and hand-painted murals.
After bowling, theres a genuinely distinctive ambiance and decor to enhance entertainment and dining.
The Grill offers casual family eating where you may choose from a selection of different appetizers, sandwiches, salads, and burgers.
If you prefer private dining, theres an ideal location for a business lunch or supper or even a lively birthday celebration.
Here, youll have the impression that you are underwater, examining the wreckage of a lost ship, in a bar area with an island motif.
While you look up, you can see Dorado and sharks that appear to be swimming overhead while dangling from the ceiling.
Theres even a sizable aquarium in the restaurant with lots of fish.
Address: 200 Bass Pro Dr, Round Rock, TX 78665, United States
