Spring break in Austin, Texas is a time to regroup, refresh and look forward to the warm months to come. But let’s be honest for a moment – if you have kids, that week of spring break can feel long if you have nothing planned. To keep from hearing the inevitable “I’m bored,” make a plan to visit the many amazing museums and activities that Austin has to offer. Whether you’re a long time resident or a visitor, there are tons of family-friendly things to do.
Museums are always a great choice for the family because there’s something for everyone to be excited about. Start out at The Thinkery, a hands-on museum that encourages building and creativity. The Austin Nature and Science Center offers indoor and outdoor exhibits to explore, including wildlife exhibits and a dinosaur pit. Don’t forget to check out the Blanton Art Museum where kids 12 and under are always free!
If you're seeking more wildlife adventures, then the Austin Aquarium is the place to go. Explore the undersea world where you will find a giant octopus, sharks, and even tropical birds. The Austin Zoo is a small non-profit sanctuary for tigers, primates and a variety of animals. Here you can find rescued wildlife such as black bears and coatimundis.
Austin has many opportunities for outdoor adventures. Pack a picnic and get going on a family-friendly hike. Options include short hikes such as the Mayfield Nature Preserve or the Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife Center. For a slightly longer hike with an educational twist, McKinney Falls State Park includes ruins of colonist homesteads.
Want to beat the heat and go for a swim? If you are a nature lover Barton Creek Greenbelt has natural swimming holes and the chance to look for tadpoles. Don’t forget to visit one of the great public swimming pools where kids can have a blast and parents can relax by the pool.
Spring break is a time to do new things and have fun, so with that in mind why not take the family roller skating at the Playland Skate Center? If you love old school games, Pinballz Arcade has enough pinball and arcade games to keep everyone happy. For the sports minded, the North Austin Rock Gym offers classes for all levels and ages.
After a fun day of spring break activities, it’s time to visit some great family friendly restaurants like Phil’s Icehouse where the kids can play on the patio while you enjoy a meal. Pancakes for dinner? You can find them round the clock at Kerbey Lane Café. If pizza is on the menu for your family, check out Napa Flats where they let the kids practice their pizza tossing skills with mini dough balls. With so many great options for spring break in Austin, you can’t go wrong. Whether it’s outdoor adventures, culture or amazing food there is something to keep everyone in the family happy.
Posted by Shane White on
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