12 Family-Friendly Austin Activities to Check Off Your Summer Bucket List

Find unlimited fun for all ages this season

By Avery Matschek

The activities in Austin are endless, but finding exciting activities for the entire family can sometimes be a challenge. We rounded up a list of family-friendly Austin activities that will keep the fun times rolling through Labor Day. From parks to unique swimming holes to foodie adventures, your summertime itineraries will be chock-full of adventures to make for a season full of happy memories.

Photo courtesy of Zilker Hillside Theater

1. Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical at Zilker Hillside Theatre

Zilker Theatre Productions will present its 64th summer musical from July 7 to Aug 12 at the iconic Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theatre. The joyful show is centered around Matilda, a witty child with psychokinetic powers and an incredible imagination. Inspired by the classic novel by Roald Dahl, this musical features a talented cast and incredible music.

Photo by Holly Cowart

2. Dreamland

An outdoor entertainment venue that is sure to engage both children and adults, Dreamland is a must-visit destination in Dripping Springs. With art everywhere you look, two excellent mini-golf courses, an exciting splash pad and 16 pickleball courts, activities abound at Dreamland.

Photo by Michael Gail Photography

3. The Thinkery

The Thinkery is a play-based and STEM-inspired children’s museum with enough interactive indoor and outdoor activities to keep any kid amused. Visit for free during Community Hours, send the kids to Thinkery Camp or become a member to receive benefits, discounts and invitations to special events.

Photo courtesy of Brentwood Social House

4. Tea Party at Brentwood Social House

Brentwood Social House has many activities for the youngins — a playground, family-friendly live music and special events, but our favorite option is the Afternoon Tea, available for adults and children. Wonderful for special occasions or a simple family day out, tea parties are a fantastic way to enjoy the cozy environment at Brentwood Social House.

Photo by Ben Mitzner

5. Austin Bouldering Project

Get climbing with the youth program at ABP, a bouldering gym that has been loved by locals for years. Youth climbing camps run weekly from May 29 to August 11, giving children ages five to 12 an opportunity to learn climbing techniques while socializing with friends. Parents are also invited to bring their kids to climb together during regular hours.

Photo courtesy of Kalahari Resorts and Conventions

6. Kalahari Resorts and Conventions

There’s 223,000 square feet to explore at America’s largest indoor water park, which happens to be located just north of Austin in Round Rock. On top of that, Kalahari is also home to the Zambezi Outdoor Waterpark and Tom Foolerys Adventure Park. An ideal venue for a birthday party or a family weekend getaway, don’t miss out on this water-filled wonderland.

MORE: A Guide to Austin Hotels with Pool Passes

Photo by Matthew Brooks

7. Round Rock Express Games

With fun specials like $2 Taco Tuesdays, Kids Days and Thirsty Thursdays, sports-loving families can head out to Round Rock’s Dell Diamond to cheer on the Express! The Minor League Baseball team is the Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, offering a more affordable, but still fun, baseball experience — complete with classic concessions and a free 2023 Express Kids Club Membership for those 12 and younger.

Photo courtesy of Austin Scottish Rite Theatre

8. Austin Scottish Rite Theatre

Theater kids will love attending any and every show at Austin Scottish Rite Theatre, an educational and high-quality theater housed in a building that was erected in 1871, the year that Austin became the capital of Texas! The theater focuses on offering enriching programming for kids, including summer camps covering the subjects of acting, puppetry, stage combat, advanced theater and Shakespeare.

9. Quarry Splash Pad

Quarry Splash Pad is now open for the season! Located at Southwest Williamson County Regional Park, this is a low-cost, fun-filled outdoor water park that is worth the short drive to Leander. With picnic tables and grassy areas, parents can enjoy the sunshine as their children play in the water.

Photo by Rachel Fore-Harlow

10. Inner Space Cavern

The Inner Space Cavern was hidden for more than 10,000 years before being discovered by a Texas Highway Department core drilling team in 1963. The gorgeous formations and prehistoric animal bones contribute to the beauty of this natural wonder, which remains at a constant 72 degrees no matter the temperature outside.

Photo courtesy of The Art Garage

11. The Art Garage Summer Camps

Entertain with art at The Art Garage’s amazing summer camps. Every camp has a unique theme — there’s more than 20 themes to choose from throughout this summer! Campers will create 10 or more art projects each week in mediums like mosaics, glass fusion, painting, tie-dye and more. Beyond the camps, The Art Garage also hosts art parties, custom events and walk-in projects, all perfect for families to experience together.

Photo courtesy of Lone Star Riverboat

12. Lone Star Riverboat Bat Watching Tour

Experience the spectacle of the approximated 1.5 million bats under the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge with a tour from Lone Star Riverboat on Lady Bird Lake. The cruise departs before sunset so attendees can watch as the bats emerge. Tours are open from March through early November for this recognizable Austin activity.

MORE: Unveiling the New H-E-B on Exposition, A Premier Grocery Shopping Experience