Are you staying in Austin this Spring break? Or are you visiting a family in the Hill Country for a few days? When the kids are looking to you to make spring break 2022 like no other, we’ve got you covered! There are plenty of amazing ways to keep the kids busy throughout spring break, from unique museum days to food trucks to epic outdoor hikes. We’ve got all the things to do with your family during spring break in Austin, Texas.
Austin Spring Vacation Holiday Ideas
Go to a local farm.
Farms usually provide a fun place for any family outing! Kids will enjoy seeing chickens, cows, donkeys, pigs, and other farm animals. Additionally, farms offer so many learning activities, as well.
Children can connect with Mother Nature and get a better understanding of where our food comes from and also the importance of sustainable living.
Where to Play Mini-Golf in Austin with Your Family
Mini-golf is one of those things to do that is enjoyable for all ages. No matter if you are good at putting or just out there giving it your best, it’s ideal for the entire family.
Peter Pan Mini Golf
1207 Barton Springs Rd.
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 472-1033
A beloved Austin institution since 1948, Peter Pan Mini Golf offers two 18-hole courses filled with whimsical, larger-than-life sculptures and obstacles. It’s a family-friendly spot known for its laid-back, nostalgic vibe and creative course designs that appeal to both kids and adults. peterpanminigolf.com
Monster Mini Golf & Laser Tag
3916 Gattis School Rd #112
Round Rock, TX 78664
(512) 600-3467
Located in nearby Round Rock, Monster Mini Golf features an 18-hole indoor, glow-in-the-dark mini golf course with a spooky monster theme. The venue also offers laser tag, arcade games, and party rooms, making it a great spot for family outings or birthday parties. monsterminigolf.com
Playland Skate Center (Mini Golf)
8822 McCann Dr, Austin, TX 78757
(512) 452-1901
Playland Skate Center offers more than just roller skating. It also features an outdoor mini golf course that’s perfect for kids and families. The course is part of a larger entertainment complex, making it a great option for an all-day family adventure. playlandskatecenter.net
Golf in Schools at Austin’s Park n’ Pizza
16231 N Interstate 35 Frontage Rd.
Pflugerville, TX 78660
(512) 670-9600
Austin’s Park n’ Pizza offers a mini golf course as part of its extensive range of family entertainment options. The course is fun and challenging, with various obstacles and water features. After a round of mini golf, families can enjoy go-karts, arcade games, and other attractions. austinspark.com
Family Friendly Austin Trails and Parks
Go for a hike or a nature walk with your family. A family hike could differ from quick, leisurely nature walks by means of woodsy trails, or even through your own neighborhood, or as large as steep climbs up Hill Country trails or day trips to Texas State Parks.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 974-6700
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is one of Austin’s most popular nature trails, offering over 12 miles of scenic beauty. The trail winds through lush forests, limestone cliffs, and tranquil swimming holes, making it a favorite spot for hikers, mountain bikers, and rock climbers. With multiple access points, the Greenbelt is easily accessible and offers a variety of terrain, from flat, easy paths to more challenging rocky sections. The trail also leads to the famous Barton Springs Pool, a refreshing natural spring that’s perfect for cooling off after a hike. austinparks.org
Mount Bonnell
3800 Mount Bonnell Rd, Austin, TX 78731
(512) 974-6700
Mount Bonnell, also known as Covert Park, is a historic and scenic trail that offers one of the best views in Austin. The trail involves a short but steep climb up 102 steps to the summit, where visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the Colorado River, the Austin skyline, and the surrounding Hill Country. This spot is perfect for a quick hike, photography, or a peaceful picnic while enjoying the stunning vista. It’s one of the highest points in Austin and a must-visit for both locals and tourists. alltrails.com
Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail
1820 S Lakeshore Blvd
Austin, TX 78741
(512) 974-6700
The Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail is a 10-mile loop that encircles Lady Bird Lake in the heart of downtown Austin. This well-maintained trail offers a picturesque escape with views of the water, city skyline, and lush greenery. It’s perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you’ll find numerous parks, benches, and scenic spots to relax. The trail is mostly flat, making it accessible for all fitness levels, and it connects to several iconic Austin landmarks, including Zilker Park and the Congress Avenue Bridge. tripadvisor.com
Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve
805 N Capital of Texas Hwy
Austin, TX 78746
(512) 327-7622
The Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve offers a serene and protected environment where visitors can explore 227 acres of Texas Hill Country. The preserve features several miles of trails that meander through dense woodlands, rocky outcrops, and scenic overlooks. This trail is perfect for those seeking a quiet escape into nature, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the native flora. The preserve is also home to a visitor center that provides educational exhibits about the area’s natural history. Note that the trails are for foot traffic only, ensuring a peaceful experience for hikers. wildbasin.org
McKinney Falls State Park
5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy
Austin, TX 78744
(512) 243-1643
McKinney Falls State Park offers a variety of trails within its 641 acres of natural beauty. The park’s Onion Creek Hike is particularly popular, providing a 3-mile loop that takes visitors past picturesque waterfalls, serene pools, and ancient limestone formations. The park also features the Homestead Trail, which leads to the ruins of Thomas McKinney’s 19th-century homestead. Whether you’re interested in history, photography, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, McKinney Falls offers something for everyone. The park is also a great spot for camping, fishing, and bird-watching. tpwd.texas.gov
Check out a drive-thru zoo in Austin.
Go on a wild journey without leaving your own car. With one of the many drive-thru zoos within Central Texas, you can feed live exotic animals from your very own car window.
Exotic Resort Zoo
Johnson City, TX (about a 1-hour drive from Austin)
235 Zoo Trail
Johnson City, Texas 78636
(830)868-4357
Discover a wildlife wonderland at the Exotic Resort Zoo, where over 700 animals and 45+ species roam across 137 acres. Some of these animals are from species that were once endangered, offering a unique opportunity to see them up close. The zoo provides multiple tour options: choose from a Drive-Through Tour, a Guided Tour, or a Private Tour to tailor your visit to your preferences. Reservations are only required for Private Tours, so you can decide which experience you’d like upon arrival. For those looking to extend their adventure, the zoo also offers Safari Cabin rentals available year-round. www.zooexotics.com
9:00 am – 6:00 pm daily (closed on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day)
Admission:
- Adults: $18.95
- Seniors (60+): $17.95
- Children (2-12): $15.95
- Bags of feed: $6
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd.
San Antonio, TX (approximately a 1-hour drive from Austin)
830-438-7400
Consistently ranked among the Top 10 Best Safari Parks in the nation, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch offers an immersive wildlife experience. Drive through 450 acres of picturesque rolling hills, creek beds, and live oak trees as you encounter over 500 animals from around the world. The safari trek spans four miles, allowing visitors to explore the diverse landscapes at their own pace, typically taking 1-2 hours. With a variety of ticket options, including discounted online purchases, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, the ranch frequently offers discounted admission on weekdays, making it an affordable adventure for families.
The experience is more than just a drive; it’s an educational journey where you can learn about different species and their habitats. You might even get a chance to feed some of the animals, creating unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or looking for a unique family outing, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch provides an exciting, up-close encounter with wildlife.
Admission:
- Self-guided tours start at $31.99 for Adults
- $21.99 for Kids ages 3-11
Play tourist in your own community at a “classic Austin” location.
Visit and enjoy the views from Mount Bonnell, go on a kayak journey on Lady Bird Lake, get breakfast tacos, discover famous street art, and much more!
Enjoy the sand.
Nothing beats the peaceful feeling of a beach holiday.
But when there’s no time or budget to head to the coast, you can improvise right here in the Austin area. Just use a little imagination, and these nearby destinations can give you those beachy feelings.
Spring Vacation Holiday Destinations in and around Austin
Zip Lost Pines
1760 State Hwy 71 W
Cedar Creek, TX 78612
(512) 761-2323
Memorable Experiences are their Specialty. The Zip Lost Pines mission is to ensure 100% ear-to-ear smiles, leaps in confidence, plus complete joy. Their side-by-side zip line tours are a one-of-a-kind adventure for everybody. So, soar through the treetops in McKinney Roughs Nature Park and try their unique side-by-side zip line experience so you and your kid can ride next to each other. Their staff will undoubtedly guide you as you take in views of the forest, canyons as well as Colorado River valley below. ziplostpines.com
Pioneer Farms
10621 Pioneer Farms Dr.
Austin, TX, 78754
(512) 837-1215
At Pioneer Farms, you will discover themed historic areas to discover: a Tonkawa Indian Encampment, a German Emigrant Farm, a Cotton Planter’s Farm, a Texian Farm, the Chisholm Trail, a Republic-era overlook, and a rural town known as Sprinkle Corner, as well as three other developing interpretive sites. You can see authentic Texas heritage on their more than 90 gorgeous, wooded acres in each location and discover fascinating, memorable ways to experience Texas’ past with your family. Do not miss the Scarborough Hvalp, where you can get up close with your favorite farm animal buddies! pioneerfarms.org
Thinkery
1830 Simond Ave,
Austin, TX 78723
(512) 469-6200
Austin Children’s Museum was established in 1983 by a grassroots group of parents and educators who desired local children to get more educational and cultural opportunities. In those days, they were a “museum without walls”- their founder drove tabletop exhibits all around town in her station wagon and presented some activities and programs in schools, libraries, parks and, even malls. In 1987, they settled into their first brick-and-mortar home- a 5,000-square-foot building on W. 5th St. For the next ten years; they presented exhibits, experiences, and educational programs for nearby kids and families. During this period, they developed exhibitions that traveled to other children’s museums around the country, gaining a significant reputation. thinkeryaustin.org
Pinballz Arcade
Various Locations
Mixing Texas’s largest selection of traditional pinball and video games with the best modern games and destinations, Pinballz is the perfect family amusement destination this coming spring break. With locations in Buda (Pinballz Kingdom) and Austin (Pinballz Calotte and Pinballz Lake Creek), every Pinballz boasts the best in old-style gaming fun while offering unique location-specific attractions. Test your skills in a vast outdoor arena along with Inner Soldier Laser Tag at Pinballz Kingdom. Participate in sci-fi-inspired team-vs-team action with Galaxy Wars Laser beam Tag at Pinballz Lake Creek. Or battle zombies, robots, werewolves, and more in Pinballz Lake Creek’s multi-sensory thrill ride, the 7D Dark Ride Theater. With the vast collection of classic and modern gaming options, additional attractions, and full pub and restaurant service (Pinballz Kingdom and Pinballz Lake Creek only), Pinballz is the gold standard in family leisure and enjoyment. https pinballzarcade.com
Hamilton Pool Preserve
24300 Hamilton Pool Rd
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
(512) 264-2740
The Texas Hill Country is filled with hidden gems such as Enchanted Rock to luxurious freshwater pools that people head to during the hot summer days; Central Texas has some of the most magnificent spots to visit with the family. Just a quick hike down to the grotto, and you feel as if you have entered a sunny rain forest. You can hear the beautiful sound of the waterfall before you see it, which heightens your thrills to get there. Once the clearing opens up, you also see the gorgeous blue of the pool. In addition to swimming, guests can climb down behind the waterfall, clamber on the rocks, sun themselves on the rocky beach, or discover more of Hamilton Creek across the trail that runs next to it. You can easily spend the entire afternoon here. traviscountytx.gov/parks/hamilton-pool-preserve
Longhorn Cavern State Park
6211 Park Road 4 S
Burnet, TX 78611
(512) 715-9000
Another hidden gem in the Texas Hill Country is the Longhorn Cavern State Park. It is a fantastic location to take the family for the day. Longhorn Caverns is one of the few river-formed caverns you can visit in Texas. The park’s highlight is the Caverns, developed thousands of years ago by the circulation of rushing water and the limestone, over-abundant in the area. There are many tours to choose from to explore the caves with. The hour and a half tour with the help pf of a professional tour guide is an exciting glimpse into the past, with stories of Indian Council Meetings, a Texas Ranger assisted kidnapping rescue, and 1920’s “nightclub” dances. Along with the enjoyable stories, your guide highlights unique structures, such as the Queen’s Watch Dog, Menneskeabe Lincoln’s face, or an occasional bat. visitlonghorncavern.com
Cameron Park Zoo
1701 N 4th St.
Waco, TX 76707
(254) 750-8400
Set on the edges of the Brazos River in Waco, Cameron Park Zoo has a distinctive backdrop filled with rich vegetation as well as waterfalls. This immense wildlife has more than 1700 creatures, representing 300 species. From black bears to giraffes and Komodo Dragons to elephants, this zoo offers plenty of animals to please every age. Numerous shaded, winding walkways led to the different shows, permitting a slow meander and peaceful visit. For being in a ‘smaller’ Texas city, the Cameron Park Zoo is well-founded. It is maintained as a “large” zoo with excellent habitats for all the animals; however, it has a relaxing belief that is sometimes missed at the more prominent zoos. There are many different play areas for your kids too. Cool off through splashing in the water, checking in with your animal encounter, or climbing in a giant snake’s head at Grammy Nell’s. Explore Jungle Jim’s Playground at the Asian Forest. The actual Cameron Park Zoo has so much to explore. This zoo is worth seeing many times. They always have fun events and host special events like sleepovers at the zoo and birthday parties. cameronparkzoo.com
