With so many great activities for kids, it's easy to see why Austin is a fun vacation spot for families.
Enjoy views of Downtown and Zilker Park on the Zilker Zephyr Miniature Train. After the 20-minute ride that goes over bridges, through tunnels and along Lady Bird Lake, there's a great playground close by as well.
Woode Wood performing at the Zilker Zeypher. Courtesy of Austin Chronicle.
Exhibits at the Austin's children museum, Thinkery, are designed to entertain and educate young minds, but grown-ups also enjoy themselves at this playful institution.
Fed by natural springs that keep the water a refreshing 68-degrees year-round, there's no better place for families to beat the heat than Barton Springs Pool. Deep Eddy Pool is also great for kids!
Spend a day paddling around Lady Bird Lake on a canoe or kayak from Zilker Park Boat Rentals to enjoy views of the skyline and Zilker Park.
Discover the urban oasis that is Barton Creek Greenbelt. The 800-acre park has trails winding along Barton Creek that are perfect for hiking, biking, rock climbing and more.
The kids (and their parents) will be fascinated to see the Congress Avenue Bridge bats emerge at dusk. Read more about the bats here.
The AAA minor league team, Round Rock Express, plays at the nearby Dell Diamond. The ballpark hosts Kids Days (Sundays) and Fireworks Fridays. Check out their full schedule.
After all these kid-friendly activities, it's important to refuel with some healthy eating. Plan a trip to Central Market North where they offer nutritious cuisine along with live music, a playground and more.
Want more Austin family quality time? Check out the website Free Fun in Austin including their list of kid friendly Austin restaurants.
Contributed by Katie Cook.