It’s the holiday season and there’s so much to do around Austin. But of course, top of the list for many kids is seeing Santa himself! You gotta make sure he knows exactly what you want (and double-check that you’re on the nice list).
If you’re hoping to see the Big Guy this season, here are places around town where you can catch him for photos and a chat!
In This Post
Where to Visit Santa Claus in the Austin Area
Bass Pro Shops
200 Bass Pro Dr, Round Rock, TX 78665
One of the best ways to see Santa is to make an appointment at Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops in Round Rock. You get a couple minutes with him, plus a free 4×6 photo and a free shareable video (you can purchase additional photos or holiday cards). Make your appointment online up to 7 days ahead of time.
Trail of Lights
Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
Austin Trail of Lights is one of our favorite annual traditions, and while we’re there, we have to stop at the North Pole! You can take a free photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and also visit the workshop for a free toy.
Santa on the Terrace at Long Center: Nov. 29
701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
Get a very Austin photo with Santa — with the skyline in the background! This free event is a local favorite in the middle of town, with Santa photos, selfie opportunities and chats with Mrs. Claus.
Santa’s Jingle House
8 Chisholm Trail Rd, Round Rock, TX 78681
Get your tickets early for this chance to hang out with Santa Claus. Santa’s Jingle House is a historic property in Old Town Round Rock that has lots of fun events during the holiday season. There are a few options for events with Santa, including breakfast or a VIP event (plus some fun events without Santa, if you just want the festive wonderland but don’t need to see Santa).
Domain Northside Santa Photo Experience
3311 Esperanza Crossing, Austin, TX 78758
You can find Santa outside of Macy’s at the Domain Northside from Nov. 21 to Dec. 24! You can walk up and wait in line or make an appointment ahead of time (multiple families are scheduled in each 15-minute time block). Get your photo and give him your list!
Hill Country Galleria
13500 Galleria Cir, Bee Cave, TX 78738
Take your own photos with Santa on select days at Hill Country Galleria! No professional photographer is on site but families can take photos with their phones or cameras for free. See hours here.
Sweet Eats Fruit Farm
14400 E State Hwy 29, Georgetown, TX 78626
Celebrate Christmas at the Farm at Sweet Eats Fruit Farm in Georgetown with Santa, live reindeer, and candy cane hunts. Attend a breakfast with Santa or take photos with Santa every weekend from the last weekend in November through Christmas.
Santa Saturdays at Music Lane
1011 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Sip cocoa, snap a photo with Santa, and soak up the holiday spirit at Music Lane each Saturday.
- December 6, 13, and 20 from 12 to 3 pm
- Free professional Santa photos
- Complimentary hot chocolate
- Live music, holiday crafts, and letters to Santa
Wimberley’s Hometown Holidays
If you’re in Wimberley for the twinkling small-town charm, see if you can schedule it around a chance to see Santa! Wimberley has a Santa Finder, so you can find out where the Big Guy will be appearing throughout November and December.
Kyle Santa Sightings
Check the City of Kyle’s calendar for everywhere you can see Santa this season. He’ll be available for photos on Dec. 1 at the big holiday kick-off and riding around town waving at residents Dec. 9-11.
Breakfast With Santa in Cedar Park: Dec. 6
Cedar Park Rec Center, 1435 Main St, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Kids age 2-5 can catch a special moment with Santa at this Cedar Park event on December 6.
Where to Send Letters to Santa
If your kids are a little shy or just don’t love sitting in a stranger’s lap (who can blame them?!), you can also find fun official-looking mailboxes to send Santa your letter.
The Domain Northside has a little gingerbread house with a mail slot, and they normally have a pad of paper for you to write your letter right then and there. It’s located by Culinary Dropout (near the lawn) during the holiday season.
You can also find paper and a mailbox at the North Pole area of Austin Trail of Lights.
I’ll add more spots as they get announced throughout the season!
Want more cheer? Find the best holiday events here or ways to celebrate for FREE!
Be extra nice by helping Santa and giving back to your community this year.