5 Things to do in Austin with kids in 2026

Austin, Texas, is the city where you want to be this summer. If you are a family person and live here, you know why summers are so fun. Austin has many activities to offer for both parents and kids, like after-school parks, weekend water activities, trails and green spaces, and patios and open areas, as well as ample space for kids to ride their bikes, run around, and burn off their summer energy. The outdoor lifestyle is a key reason why people enjoy living in Austin with family.

The best outdoor spots to visit with your kids in the summer in Austin.

1. Zilker Park 

If you live in Austin, you are likely familiar with Zilker Park, this park is considered to be the heart of the city. This park has a space, and you can discover areas where kids throw frisbees, play soccer, ride their bikes, and fly kites. This park is well situated between Barton Springs Pool and Lady Bird Lake. You can imagine there are tons of activities available for both the parents and kids. If you are a biker family with a small baby, it is the best place to be, as next to the park there is a hiking and bike trail. You can lay out a picnic blanket and leave your baby with your nanny and enjoy the ride. The best part about this park is it always has something for people of all ages. Bring your picnic basket, fill it with your favorite drinks and snacks, and relax.

2. Barton Springs Pool

Within Zilker Park lies the Barton Springs Pool. This pool is a gift from nature to the people of Austin. What makes this pool so dear to the people of Austin is the underground natural spring. When the summer heat and temperature rise to 100 degrees, what is the best way to cool off? This natural underground spring. this spring helps to keep the temperature of the water around 68–70 degrees all year. That’s what makes Barton Springs Pool the best outdoor swimming pool in Austin, Texas. It is a perfect spot for you and your kids to be in this hot summer. So bring your swimming suits and dive into this spring, swimming along the strait of Barton Springs Pool. The best time to visit would be in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Always check the city website before heading there, sometimes they keep it close for cleaning and maintenance.

3. Austin Nature & Science Center

Open since 1960. If your kids love to learn about science and nature, you can't find a better place for them than this center. The Austin Nature & Science Center provides the best hands-on education for kids, adults, seniors, and people of all ages. Nature and science are very inclusive and have something for everyone. Kids will have an experience to explore and learn about wildlife, fossils, and stone ages. There are also interactive learning opportunities available in these exhibits. If you have kids from 4 to 13 and want fun learning activities this summer, make your way to the Austin Nature & Science Center. Make sure you see the opening time before heading there. Usually it is open from 9.00AM to 5.00PM, but always be certain. And the best part, it is completely free. So take your kids and let them touch the fossil exhibit and allow them to learn practically.

4. Thinkery

If you are keen to explore a place in the north of Austin for kids, the best suggestion would be Thinkery. Thinkery is Austin's only children's museum, featuring a 40,000-square-foot building designed specifically for kids to learn in a playful manner. If your kids are interested in STEM (science, technology, and engineering), then Thinkery is a fantastic choice. They will have an opportunity to learn about innovation, lighting, space, color sensory, and many more in an interactive way. More about this place: you can also book birthdays and events for your kids. If you want to organize a birthday party for your kids and need a venue, this is the place. Invite your kids' friends and family and enjoy learning at the Thinkery.

5. Congress Avenue Bridge Bats

The best way to end your day is to be on Congress Avenue Bridge. Underneath the bridge lies the largest urban bat colony in North America. It is home to 1 million free-tailed Mexican bats. As astonishing as it sounds, kids consider it incredibly fascinating to witness something that only appears in movies. From the month of March until the end of October, you can witness bats flying from this bridge. The ideal time to see bats flying is at sunset. You can see nature unfold right in front of you. There are many ways to witness this event: either stand on the bridge or, if you are an adventurous family, use a kayak or paddle boat and be on the lake to see bats flying. You can also take a bat boat cruise to relax and watch the sunset while the bats fly.

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Have you considered hiring a nanny?

Whether it's exploring a nature trail, enjoying swimming, or learning science this summer, taking care of your energetic and playful kids and having fun all at the same time can be quite challenging and sometimes overwhelming. At The Nanny Edit, we understand family needs very well. We are here to help you with your needs. Find the best caretaker and nanny for your kids with us. If you have a newborn baby and feel stuck at home due to tiredness and lack of sleep, we provide Newborn Care Specialists to assist you. Our well-trained, experienced nannies let you relax while we care for your baby. If you are an adventurous family who enjoys outdoor biking and need someone to care for your kids, we are here to help. Our full-time nanny can meet all your needs.

Reach us on Instagram. @TheNannyEdit or write us at info@thenannyedit.com.

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