Grandparent’s Day celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor Day, is a special occasion to honor the love, wisdom, and guidance that grandparents provide. Whether you live in Austin or are planning to visit, the city offers a variety of ways to make this day memorable for the whole family. From outdoor adventures and cultural excursions to culinary delights and creative activities, Austin has something for every grandparent and grandchild duo. Here are some unique and heartwarming ways to celebrate Grandparents Day in Austin.
Grandparents Day Concert
Does your family love books and music? Well, you are in for a treat if so. This year, Celebrate Grandparent’s Day at the Spicewood Springs Austin Public Library. The Austin Chamber Players will perform a special string trio concert. After the concert, family craft activities will be available for everyone to enjoy. library.austintexas.gov/celebrations/grandparents-day-concert
Activities: Music, crafts, explore the library, check out books.
Tip: Make sure to get there early to get a good spot!
Enjoy a Scenic Picnic at Zilker Park
One of the best ways to celebrate Grandparents Day is with a relaxing picnic at Zilker Park, Austin’s most beloved green space. Pack a picnic basket with your grandparents’ favorite treats, grab a blanket, and enjoy a day under the Texas sun. The park offers plenty of shaded areas, picnic tables, and stunning views of the Austin skyline. austintexas.gov/department/zilker-metropolitan-park
After lunch:
- Take a stroll along the trails.
- Explore the Zilker Botanical Garden.
- Let the grandchildren play on the playground while you catch up on family stories and reminisce about the good old days.
Activities: Picnicking, walking trails, botanical garden, playgrounds.
Tip: Bring a portable speaker to play some of your grandparents’ favorite tunes to add a musical touch to the day.
Take a Historic Tour on the Austin Steam Train
For a truly unique Grandparents Day experience, consider taking a scenic ride on the Austin Steam Train. This vintage train offers various excursions that provide a charming way to see the Texas Hill Country. It’s a wonderful opportunity to step back in time and enjoy a leisurely ride while appreciating the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The train cars are beautifully restored, and the experience will surely spark conversations about the past, allowing grandparents to share their own train travel memories. austinsteamtrain.org
Activities: Train ride, sightseeing, photography.
Tip: Book a special themed ride, such as a Wild West adventure or a Hill Country Flyer for an extra special experience.
Visit the Blanton Museum of Art
If your grandparents appreciate art, visiting the Blanton Museum of Art can be a meaningful way to spend the day. The museum boasts an impressive collection of European paintings, modern and contemporary American and Latin American art, and an array of temporary exhibitions. Spend the day exploring the museum’s collections, engaging in thoughtful conversations about different art pieces, and maybe even discovering a new favorite artist together. blantonmuseum.org
Activities: Art viewing, guided tours, museum café.
Tip: Check the museum’s schedule for special events, workshops, or tours that coincide with Grandparents Day.
Go for a Nature Walk at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center offers a serene setting to connect with nature while celebrating Grandparents Day. The center showcases beautiful native Texas plants, wildflowers, and landscapes designed to inspire a love for the natural world. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the gardens, participate in a guided tour, or join a family-friendly workshop on native plants. This is a perfect way to spend time outdoors, learn something new, and appreciate the natural beauty of Texas. wildflower.org
Activities: Guided tours, nature walks, plant workshops.
Tip: Bring a sketchbook or camera to capture the beautiful scenery and make the day even more memorable.
Attend a Live Performance at The Long Center
For grandparents who enjoy live performances, attending a show at The Long Center for the Performing Arts can be a delightful way to celebrate. The Long Center offers a wide range of performances, from musicals and plays to concerts and dance shows. Check the event calendar for Grandparents Day and choose a performance you think they’ll enjoy. Sharing a cultural experience like this is a wonderful way to bond and create lasting memories. thelongcenter.org
Activities: Attend a live show and enjoy pre-show or intermission refreshments.
Tip: Make the evening extra special by dining at one of the nearby restaurants before the show.
Explore the Texas State Capitol and Take a Guided Tour
For a day of history and learning, take your grandparents to the Texas State Capitol for a guided tour. The Capitol is a stunning example of Renaissance Revival architecture and offers free guided tours that provide insight into Texas’ rich history and political heritage. After the tour, enjoy a leisurely walk around the Capitol grounds, which feature beautiful gardens and historic monuments. This outing is educational and engaging, providing plenty of opportunities for meaningful conversations. tspb.texas.gov/plan/tours/tours.html
Activities: Guided tours, historical exhibits, photography.
Tip: Visit the Capitol gift shop for unique Texas-themed gifts and souvenirs to remember the day.
Relax with a River Cruise on Lady Bird Lake
A river cruise on Lady Bird Lake offers a relaxing way to enjoy Austin’s natural beauty. You can choose from various types of cruises, including scenic daytime, sunset, and bat-watching cruises. This is a perfect way to unwind and spend quality time with your grandparents while enjoying the picturesque views of downtown Austin and the surrounding landscape. For an added treat, bring some snacks and beverages to enjoy during the cruise.
Activities: Sightseeing, photography, bat-watching.
Tip:The sunset and bat-watching cruises are particularly popular, so book in advance to ensure availability.
Learn Together at the Bullock Texas State History Museum
Visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum for a day filled with learning and exploration. The museum features interactive exhibits that tell the story of Texas, from its earliest inhabitants to the present day. With a variety of exhibits, films, and even a Texas Spirit Theater, there is something for everyone to enjoy. This is an excellent way to engage grandparents in storytelling, as they may share their experiences and stories related to the exhibits. thestoryoftexas.com
Activities: Exploring exhibits, watching IMAX films, and interactive displays.
Tip: Check for any special events or exhibitions on Grandparents Day for a more enriching experience.
Indulge in a Family Brunch at a Local Austin Restaurant
A family brunch is a classic celebration of any special occasion, and Grandparents Day is no exception. Austin boasts a wide array of restaurants that offer delicious brunch menus. Consider dining at a local favorite like Kerbey Lane Cafe, South Congress Cafe, or Jacoby’s Restaurant & Mercantile. Enjoy a leisurely meal, savor delicious food, and engage in heartwarming conversations that strengthen family bonds.
Activities: Dining, family conversations, sharing stories.
Tip:Make a reservation in advance, as popular brunch spots can fill up quickly on weekends.
Have Fun with a Craft Day at CRAFT Austin
For a hands-on, creative way to celebrate, spend the day at CRAFT Austin. This DIY craft studio offers a wide range of crafting supplies and project ideas. Whether it’s painting, jewelry making, or creating a family scrapbook, there are endless possibilities to express creativity. Grandparents and grandchildren can work together on a project, creating a keepsake that will remind them of this special day. madeatcraft.com
Activities: Crafting, DIY projects, creating keepsakes.
Tip:Call ahead to inquire about group rates or special packages for Grandparents Day.
Explore Austin’s Farmers Markets
For a relaxing and unique experience, take your grandparents to one of Austin’s many farmers markets. Stroll through the stalls, sample fresh produce, and pick up some homemade treats or artisanal crafts. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, support local vendors, and perhaps find some new favorite foods. After exploring the market, you can even have a mini-picnic with the items you’ve purchased. texasfarmersmarket.org/mueller
Activities: Shopping, sampling foods, supporting local vendors.
Tip: Visit the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller or the Downtown SFC Farmers’ Market for various vendors and activities.
Plan a Family Photoshoot at a Scenic Location
Capture the memories of Grandparents Day with a family photoshoot at one of Austin’s many scenic locations. Whether it’s at Mount Bonnell, Mayfield Park, or along the banks of Lady Bird Lake, these spots provide a beautiful backdrop for family photos. Hire a professional photographer or simply bring a camera and take turns capturing each other’s smiles. This activity not only provides a fun experience but also results in cherished photographs that can be framed and displayed. movetoaustin.org/blog/best-scenic-views-austin-tx
Activities: Photography, enjoying scenic views, exploring nature.
Tip: Plan the photoshoot around sunrise or sunset for the best natural lighting and beautiful backdrops.
Spend the Day at a Local Spa or Wellness Center
For a more relaxing way to celebrate, treat your grandparents to a day at a local spa or wellness center. Many spas in Austin, such as Hiatus Spa + Retreat or Milk + Honey Spa, offer special packages for seniors or group treatments that the whole family can enjoy. Whether it’s a massage, facial, or a full spa day, this is a wonderful way to pamper grandparents and let them know how much they are appreciated.
Activities: Spa treatments, relaxation, wellness activities.
Tip: Call ahead to book appointments and inquire about any special offers for Grandparents Day.
Celebrating Grandparents Day in Austin offers a wonderful opportunity to honor grandparents’ cherished role in our lives. Whether you choose a peaceful picnic in Zilker Park, a cultural exploration at the Blanton Museum of Art, or a thrilling ride on the Austin Steam Train, there are countless ways to create lasting memories with your grandparents in this vibrant city. From the soothing nature walks at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center to the lively performances at The Long Center, Austin provides a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests and preferences. By engaging in these meaningful experiences, you show appreciation for the wisdom and love your grandparents provide and strengthen the bonds that make your family unique. This Grandparents Day, take the time to create special moments and celebrate the wonderful grandparents in your life with a day full of joy, laughter, and heartfelt connections in Austin.
