There’s plenty to do on a family trip to Austin, Texas, no matter how long you’re staying. If you’ve only got one day in Austin with kids, here’s the best itinerary to fill your day, stay close to central Austin, and have family-friendly fun.
Even if you live in the area, this is the perfect itinerary for a fun day in Central Austin that feels like you’ve hit the city’s highlights!
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How to spend one day in Austin
1. Swim at Barton Springs
2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
For the most Austin vibes in the city, head to Barton Springs, a natural spring-fed pool in the middle of Austin. It has cold water, a view of the skyline, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels very Austin.
Here’s a full blog post on Barton Springs so you can plan the details of your visit!
You can go with little kids and go to the shallow end (where you can have floaties) or go with older kids who might like to jump off the diving boards or swim in the deeper water!
There are sometimes women sunbathing topless, but they are typically there later in the day and hanging out on the deep end, far away from where families usually hang out. I feel totally comfortable taking my kids here, but including this info in case you’re not.
If Barton Springs doesn’t sound like the right fit for you, I’d suggest Deep Eddy Pool. It’s the oldest swimming pool in Texas, and is open year-round and spring-fed similarly to Barton Springs. But it has zero-depth entry, a traditional pool surface (instead of rocky and natural) and a big shallow end, plus clear water, which make it great for smaller kids.
2. Ride the mini-train
2131 1/2, William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
I wouldn’t consider it a must-do, but Austin’s mini-train, the Zilker Eagle, is right next to Barton Springs and is a fun add-on activity while you’re in the area! It takes you on a 10- to 15-minute ride through the nearby playground, through a rainbow tunnel and by the lake.
Check their social media for any updates or closures.
3. Walk or kayak on Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake (formerly Town Lake) is the heart of the city, cutting right through the middle. Enjoy the skyline and this recreation center by either taking a walk on the lakeside trail or renting a kayak to paddle around.
Lake trail
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail runs 10 miles around the lake, and there’s lots to do along it. You can of course just enjoy the scenery and city’s atmosphere.
One of the best spots to do that is the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge. There are benches, a skyline view (great for photos!), and it’s buzzing with Austinites. You’ll sometimes even catch live music there.
I’d also suggest visiting the Central Library or Austin Nature and Science Center if you’re taking the trail. The Central Library is a gorgeous building with a cafe, fun kids area with a reading porch, and a rooftop deck.
The Austin Nature and Science Center is free! There’s an indoor learning area, rescue animals, and a dinosaur dig pit.
Find more free things to do in Austin with kids!
Kayak on the lake
The best way to see the city may be from the water! You can rent a kayak, canoe, or SUP from many different spots along Lady Bird Lake. Some options include (and there are plenty more):
- Zilker Park Boat Rentals (this spot is right by Barton Springs, if you want to add it on)
- Rowing Dock
- Austin Rowing Club
4. Alliance Children’s Garden
1000 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
I always like to recommend this playground to families who are visiting the area, because it’s right in the middle of town, has something for every age, and has the best skyline view. Alliance Children’s Garden is in Butler Metro Park, and has a tall climbing structure, sand boxes, big slides, musical instruments, swings, turf hills and tunnels, and more. There’s a year-round splash pad — Liz Carpenter Splash Pad.
It’s right by a turtle pond, a big lawn, and Doug Sahm Hill, which has a big state of Texas on the ground, seating, and an AMAZING view.
5. Peter Pan Mini Golf
1207 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When you’re driving from Barton Springs to Alliance Children’s Garden, you might see a dinosaur or giant Peter Pan popping up from the trees. That’s Peter Pan Mini Golf, an Austin institution! We go every year. There are 36 holes to play (an easier 18 and a harder 18), and they’ve got fun fairy tale, Austin or Peter Pan themes.
6. See the bats
If you are visiting between late March and October, you’re here at the right time to see the bats! Austin is home to the world’s largest urban population of bats, under the Congress Ave. bridge. The bats start to emerge around dusk. Depending on the weather, it can be before sunset (when it’s hotter and dry) or up to 40 minutes after (in cooler, damper weather).
Where to eat
There are of course TONS of great family-friendly options to eat, drink or get a treat. Look at all the restaurants with playgrounds around Austin (and in Central Austin specifically)!
But here are more specific suggestions for you if you only have one day in Austin.
Littlefield’s: For ice cream, coffee or tacos, head to this adorable spot with two food trucks. The food is AMAZING, and the space has turf, blocks and chalk for kids. (Note: on Monday through Wednesday, it closes at 3 pm)
Terry Black’s: If you’ve got your heart set on barbecue and don’t want to go far, Terry Black’s is a solid option right across from Alliance Children’s Garden and down the block from Peter Pan Mini Golf. No playground or anything, but good Texas barbecue in the middle of town.
Home Slice on 53rd: Great pizza (and sandwiches) in this old-school pizza joint, plus a fenced-in turf hills area with chalkboards.
Phil’s Ice House and Amy’s Ice Creams: This is a crowd-pleaser for the whole family. The burgers (or kids meals) are delicious, every location has a playground, and Phil’s is connected to Austin-original Amy’s Ice Creams
(Not every Amy’s has a Phil’s, but every Phil’s has an Amy’s!)
Some more helpful posts to help you plan your visit: