AUSTIN WITH KIDS
Thanks to its natural springs and nature trails, Lone Star State institutions and laid-back restaurants, the Capital of Texas is a great destination for mini cowboys and gals. Below, we’ve mapped out where to stay, what to do, and where to play in the city that keeps it weird. Plus, you’ll find all of our recommendations here.
WHERE TO STAY
Children feel welcome at these hotels, but they’re not all about the kids. Below, we’ve selected places in great locations with spacious guest quarters and an only-in-ATX vibe. (Average prices are estimated on a $ to $$$$$ scale.)
Austin Motel
This rehabbed 41-room motel is laid back and full of ATX soul. It lacks a few family friendly conveniences—there aren’t adjoining rooms, for example—but you can book spacious suites or deluxe king rooms, which open up to a shared Palm Springs-like courtyard. You’re also in one of the best locations in the city—on pedestrian-friendly South Congress and steps from popular coffee shop Jo’s. Best of all, this property has a gated pool and the unheard of—free parking.
For the Half Pints: The hotel can provide pack n’ plays as well as rollaway beds, and the room’s Alaffia amenities are all natural. Old-fashioned phones also provide serious in-room entertainment (don’t forget to unplug, moms and dads).
For the Full Pints: The lobby doubles as a hip bodega with fun finds like Solid & Striped bathing suits and Hochstadter’s canned cocktails.
Insider Tip: Take advantage of your kids’ early eating schedule: Diners get 25% all food at the property’s Mexican-inspired restaurant, Joann’s, between 4 and 6 PM on weekdays. And while they don’t have a kid’s menu, the kitchen it happy to create paired down dishes for littles.
Austin Motel; room options; $$
Locale
Think of these serviced apartments as Airbnb-like rentals packed with hotel-quality amenities. Each includes kitchens, washer/dryers, and bathtubs, for example, as well as a 24/7 concierge team and mid-stay housekeeping upon request (for an extra fee). Locale has apartments throughout Austin; the Downtown West and Mueller locations are the most kid friendly thanks to their easy access to parks, green spaces, grocery stores, and family institutions.
For the Half Pints: Locale’s founder is a dad, so he’d made sure that amenities like white noise machines, cribs, and outlet plugs are available on request. Select units also have pullout beds.
For the Full Pints: Locale’s East location strikes a nice balance between a cool neighborhood and access to family friendly amenities. The complex has a resort-style pool, and the Comal pocket park is around the corner.
Insider tip: Contact the Locale team before your stay for a curated list of activities specific to your group. (Though with this guide in hand, what more do you need?)
locale.com; property options; $$
Embassy Suites Austin Downtown South Congress
Austin residents often put up relatives at this 262-room Hilton property because of its downtown location, indoor swimming pool, and free breakfast. There’s less hip factor, though possible skyline and Congress Bridge views give rooms a sense of place, and it’s hard to beat the convenience of one of the 18 two-bedroom suites as well as in-room amenities like microwaves and mini fridges.
For the Half Pints: Cribs are available upon request, and all two-bedroom suites have a living room and a bathtub. The complimentary breakfast, which includes made-to-order omelets, is also a cash saver.
For the Full Pints: The hotel has an evening reception 5 PM to 7 PM daily, which includes complimentary (house) wine, beer, and cocktails, as well as light snacks.
Insider Tip: A balloon artist often drops by the dining room on weekends.
Embassy Suites Downtown Austin; room options; $$$
Home and Apartment Rentals
Short-term rentals from sites like Airbnb and Austin-based HomeAway are great options for families for their at-home conveniences like kitchens and washer/dryers. Depending on the homeowner, cribs, high chairs, changing tables, and toys might be available too. Search Downtown Austin for contemporary apartments, many of which have amenities like swimming pools and gyms; in residential areas such as Zilker, Bouldin, and Travis Heights in South Austin, as well as Clarksville and Rosedale in North Austin, you’ll find more houses with green space. East Austin—on and off of Cesar Chavez, East 6th Street, and the Holly neighborhood—is also central and pedestrian friendly. And finally Austin has Lady Bird Lake-front rentals for families interested in a lake vacation with a side of urban excursions. $-$$$$$
THE MUST-SEE SITES
Yes, these places attract hordes of tourists, but they’re also popular for a reason—especially with kids. So how do you avoid the crowds and keep the kids engaged? Read on.
The Thinkery
Pecking order among Austin families is closely related to geographic proximity to the Thinkery. The 40,000-square-foot space, located in the northeast Mueller neighborhood, is filled with interactive exhibits for everyone from babies to pre-teens. They encourage learning, play, and putting your senses to work, whether you’re in the Kitchen Lab, creating mini explosions, or you’re exploring shadows, colors, and reflections in the Light Lab. There are also regular classes such as Art Start (sensory art play) and Tinkering Tots (using tools and exploring technology) for one- to four-year-olds.
Half Pint Tip: Currents is a very popular exhibit, full of water features, so bring a change of clothes. And if you’re traveling with toddlers, check up the upstairs Bloom exhibit, designed specifically for tots and their families.
Best for: Any age
Time it right: Avoid the busy weekends if you can. Weekday afternoons are the slowest times. The Thinkery also hosts special Sensory Friendly Hours—capacity is restricted and exhibits modified to better serve kids with sensitivity to light, loud noises, and crowds—several times a year.
How to save: Weekly community nights, on Wednesdays from 4-8 PM, are free. Military families and first responders also get $2 off of admission for up to five family members.
thinkeryaustin.org
The Texas Capitol
Proud Texans are quick to note that their state capitol is taller than the mothership in Washington, D.C.—it’s one of several, it turns out—but that’s just one of many reasons to visit this National Historic Landmark. Families also discovering the grand rotunda, the portrait of David Crockett, and the elegant legislative chambers. What’s more entertaining for young children is the visitor’s center—it looks like a castle, so that alone earns a thumbs up—full of interactive exhibits such as a costume corner and a replica of the capitol made out of LEGOS. Surrounding lawns are also great to explore—as long as they’re not packed with protesters.
Half Pint Tip: The rotunda is a whispering gallery, and a lesson in acoustics. When you stand in the middle of the terrazzo floor’s iconic star and whisper, it sounds like your voice is booming.
Best for: There’s something for kids of all ages, but kids 4+ will get the most out of the experience.
Time it right: Weekdays attract fewer crowds.
How to save: Visits to the capitol and its visitor’s center are free.
tspb.texas.gov
Austin’s Central Library
Designed with a rooftop garden, contemporary art, and gravity defying bridges and staircases that connect the building’s six stories, this library is quickly becoming a city cornerstone. Kids might be the library’s biggest fan thanks to the second floor children’s wing, filled with story and early reading books, computers loaded with educational games, activity tables and toys, and a calendar full of special events like Spanish and Japanese story hour.
Half Pint Tip: Have breakfast or lunch at Cookbook, the downstairs café where all dishes are inspired by actual cookbooks stocked at the library. The library’s gift shop is also a great place to pick up a city souvenir.
Best for: All ages.
Time it right: Other than somewhat limited hours (10 to 6 on weekdays and 12 to 6 on Sundays), it’s hard to pick a bad time to visit the library.
How to save: The library is free, but on-site parking isn’t, and the garage is frustratingly small. Depending on where you’re staying, walk there or take the bus (the Seaholm Station is right across the street). There is also limited street parking.
library.austintexas.gov
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Over 900 species of Texas natives, including 16 varieties of live oak trees, grow in the gardens and natural areas of this 284-acre reserve, co-founded by former First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson. Along with the Family Garden—where kid can shovel in the Dirt Dig sandbox and dip their toes in a burbling stream—families love the swings under the Cathedral of Oaks in the Texas Arboretum, as well as the Observation Tower. There’s also the Little House with kid’s books and activities, a nice A.C. break on a hot day. And regular events include family nature and bird walks, botanical-inspired art classes, and Sprouts, a walk-in family program twice a week that’s free with admission.
Insider tip: Things are mostly outdoors here, so be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, closed-toe shoes, and water bottles.
Best for: All ages.
Time it right: The parking lot fills up on weekends—especially during the spring bluebonnet season—but crowds disperse once you’re on the grounds.
How to save: If you think you might go more than once, buy a family membership, which pays for itself in two visits. Most family programming is included in the entry fee.
wildflower.org
Laguna Gloria
This gallery and sculpture garden, housed in a late 1800s villa, sits on Lady Bird Lake. The grounds are a lovely place to run around, but the best time to go is the second Saturday of every month, when the property hosts family friendly events. Themed workshops range from nature-inspired classes to ice painting.
Insider tip: Afterwards, pop by Mayfield Park and walk along waterfront nature trails. Keep an eye out for one of the two dozen peacocks that call this nature preserve home.
Best for: All ages.
Time it right: On family days, parking can be tricky, so consider taking a cab.
How to save: Family events are free, though registration is required.
thecontemporaryaustin.org
The Bats
Austin has a celebrity bat population, 1.5 million strong, that lives under the city’s central Congress Bridge. From March through November, the flying mammals emerge at dusk, attracting a steady stream of paparazzi donning iPhones and baseball hats (because, guano). Kids can watch the Mexican free-tailed bats from Congress Bridge, nearby lawns, or one of the many boat and kayak companies that lead tours in the water below.
Half Pint Tip: If your kiddos are old enough to join you in a kayak, a bat tour with Live Love Paddle is great fun.
Best for: All ages.
Time it right: The bats fly out at dusk, so you’ll want to arrive an hour or so head of time to mark your viewing territory.
How to save: Bats don’t charge, but boats will. Tour options can range from big boats ($12 adults; $5 kids) to more personalized kayak tours ($45 per person).
Umlauf Sculpture Garden
Located around the corner from Zilker Park on four tucked way acres, this private art park is dedicated to the works of sculptor Charles Umlauf. It’s always a great spot for a peaceful nature stroll and the second Sunday of every month is family day; activities might include yoga, story time, sculpture hunts, and bouncy houses.
Insider tip: Barton Springs Picnic, home to a slew of great food trailers, is located across the street. We go for the hot and crunchy chicken—it’s battered with almond and sesame seeds, topped with mango-jalapeno slaw, and wrapped up in a tortilla—from Mighty Cone.
Best for: All ages.
Time it right: Arrive early on family days; lines can get long for the bouncy house and other activities.
How to save: Family day admission is free.
umlaufsculpture.org
Bullock Museum
A three-story bronze star marks the entrance of this Texas history museum, and the Becoming Texas exhibit—exploring 16,000 years of Lone Star state geology, early American history, and colonialism—dominates the ground floor. There are also exhibits on the state’s oil boom and all things cowboy. Stop by the gift shop for an only-in-Texas souvenir.
Half Pint Tip: If your kiddo is old enough to watch a short film, Star of Destiny, an IMAX movie about Texas history, is a visual stunner with a side of special effects.
Best for: Texans will tell you this right of passage is essential at any age; kids ages 3+ will get the most out of the experience. Time it right: The largest crowds visit on community event days, which you can avoid—or take part in—by taking a look at the calendar.
How to save: The museum offers free admission the first Sunday of every month.
thestoryoftexas.com
Farmer’s Markets
Located in Republic Square, Austin’s Saturday Farmers Market is a popular pit stop for visitors and locals alike. Along with fresh produce, you’ll find breakfast and lunch options like Tacodeli tacos, piping hot tamales from Tamale Addiction, and pastries from Cake & Spoon (the ginger cream scone is a personal favorite. There’s also a city park to run around, rocks to climb, and regular live music.
On Sundays, the farmers’ market moves to a former airport hanger in the Mueller neighborhood. This version is even more family friendly thanks to Tiny Tails, a mini petting zoo where kids can take turns holding baby chicks, bearded dragons, and bunnies, as well as pony rides. Favorite vendors include Steamies for dumplings and Mom & Pops for fruit popsicles.
PARKS, PLAYGROUNDS, AND PUBLIC POOLS
Green spaces are the backbone of every successful family trip. Austin has plenty, from central nature reserves to urban pocket parks. They city’s public pools are also essential pit stops on a hot day.
Deep Eddy Pool
Travelers who are familiar with Austin have likely heard of Barton Springs, a natural spring-fed pool flanked by green lawns dotted with the tattooed and (occasionally) topless. Deep Eddy is the family friendly neighbor. The 30.5-meter pool is also spring fed, but has the look of your classic neighborhood swimming grounds: a rectangular, white-bottomed pool with swim lanes and a walk-in shallow end. It’s a dream for kids—especially those visiting on a hot day—and like Barton Springs it is also full of ATX history: It’s the oldest pool in Texas, and has a bath house build during the Great Depression a public works project. The mural along the ground’s west wall tells the story of the Deep Eddy’s early history. It’s beautiful to look at, and makes a great backdrop for a family photo.
Insider Tip: If you’re using a wheelchair or stroller, ask a staff member to help you locate and navigate wheel-accessible routes. Otherwise, you’ll be climbing down a steep set of stairs to the pool. And if you’re hungry after your swim, plan on lunch or dinner at Pool Burger, located just above Deep Eddy’s parking lot.
Best for: All ages.
Time it right: Like buffalo at a watering hole in the Serengeti’s dry season, this pool can be packed in the summer, especially on weekend afternoons. Mornings through mid-day, though, are typically quiet, so take advantage of your early risers.
How to save: Parking is free at Deep Eddy, a rarity in Austin, and children under one get free admission as well.
austintexas.gov
Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
This trail, which runs along Lady Bird Lake—known as Town Lake among locals—throughout Austin, is the heartbeat of the city. Here, you’ll spot runners, bikers, and plenty of strollers on loops that range from two to ten miles. You can also park and walk to spots full of wildlife like duck pond (pictured) along Zilker Park or to scenic overwater bridges on the park’s East Austin extension.
Insider Tip: Bring stale bread to duck pond, just west of the trail’s Lou Neff Point, where not only ducks but also American coots, geese, turtles, and even swans gather.
zilkerpark.org
Zilker Park
This is the queen of Austin’s parks, a 250-acre green space with a skyline backdrop. While it’s best known as the playground for the Austin City Limits Festival, it also has family friendly gems like a large playscape and the Zilker Zepher, a miniature train that makes a loop around the park every 30 to 40 minutes. Train tickets are $3 for adults and $2 for children, cash only.
Insider tip: Big open spaces make this a great spot to fly a kite, which you can find, along with picnic provisions, at nearby Thom’s Market on Barton Springs.
The Austin Greenbelt
This 832-acre nature reserve is crisscrossed with family-friendly trails that weave their way through native plants, against limestone walls, and along clear creeks lined with skipping stones. Bring binoculars to spot bird and animal life (deer, armadillos, and rabbits). Sculpture Falls is a favorite spot within the reserve; here, the creek runs over boulders and into a swimming hole. And if your kiddos were inspired by “Free Solo,” it’s worth watching the climbers tackle popular rock climbing and bouldering spots such as the Gus Fruh Boulder or the Fern Bar.
Insider Tip: Plan your route so you can pop out at one of Austin’s favorite taco joints, Tacodeli, located on Spyglass Road. The casual spot has ample outdoor seating and tasty bites such as Vaquero breakfast taco (eggs, cheese and rajas) as well as the Akaushi picadillo (seasoned beef with cilantro and onion). Kids also love the horchata, a Mexican rice milk flavored with almonds or pistachios.
austinparks.org
Little Stacy Neighborhood Park
Located in Travis Heights, this park has impressive play structures, picnic tables, green lawns, and is well shaded. The park is also home to Little Stacy Wading pool, a tot-friendly pool that is one- to two-feet deep throughout, open in the summer months (see here for exact dates).
AustinParks.org
CLC Playground
This small church playground is a nice respite from shopping or sightseeing along popular South Congress Avenue. The play structure sits under lovely live oaks, and is blocks from popular places to stay (South Congress Hotel and the Austin Motel) and family friendly places to eat (Home Slice for New York-style pizza and Enoteca Vespio for Italian).
Location: Corner of Monroe and Breckenridge Streets, next to Christ Lutheran Church.
Ramsey Park
Located in a popular family neighborhood in north/central Austin, this public green space keeps kids of all ages in mind thanks to playscapes that range from toddler slides to story-high climbing structures. There are also basketball and tennis courts, and a public pool that’s open during the summer. You’re also in walking distance to a Tacodeli, Houndstooth Coffee, and locally loved Draught House Pub.
AustinParks.org
Pease Park
Head to his park’s southern tip for its playground and splash pad. There are also nature trails and impressive sculptures for parents hoping to sneak a bit of culture into kiddie time. And check the Pease calendar for Eeyore's Birthday, which usually falls in early April. Originally launched in 1963 by University of Texas students, this event—with massive drum circles, hula hooping, face painting, live music, an egg toss competition and, of course, donkey rides—is a reminder of Austin’s seriously hippie roots.
peasepark.org
Emma Long Park Beach
Outside of town, this park and campground, located on Lady Bird Lake, has picnic-worthy lawns and a sandy bank that, with a bit of imagination (and kids have got plenty) can be called a beach. There is an entrance fee of $5 ($10 on holidays).
Insider tip: Should you be caravanning, there are campsites and RV hookups at Emma Long. Reservations are bit tricky to secure and fill up fast—especially in the fall and spring—so book in advance. Also note that the road there is narrow and winding.
AustinTexas.gov
FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS
Dining out with babies and kids can be hard. At the spots below, you’ll be welcomed with open arms and leave with your dignity in tact. The food is delicious, too.
LORO
Loro is a partnership between two Austin stars: Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue and Uchi chef Tyson Cole. Here, Franklin’s famed beef brisket is dressed up with a chili gastrique, cilantro, and Thai basil; the, chicken karaage is brushed with smoked honey and can be dipped into a chili aioli. Kids go for these flavors, as well as the corn fritters and the kettle corn tossed with brisket burnt ends. Seating is casual, and littles love the egg-shaped swinging chairs hanging from a live oak tree on the patio.
Loroaustin.com
Contigo
Located just outside of Austin’s family friendly Mueller neighborhood, Contigo is a favorite with kids thanks to its indoor/outdoor setting and Texas-style lawn games like washers and corn hole. Crispy green beans and white bean dip are surprising hits with the littles; parents dine on game-inspired dishes such as beef tongue slides and rabbit and dumplings. There’s also a serious cocktail menu and local beers on tap.
Contigo.com
Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden
Rainey Street is better known for its adult scene—bars and late night music venues—but you can get a taste of the action with kids in tow at Banger’s Sausages, housed in restored historic builds in the heart of the neighborhood. The menu has options like classic Bratwursts and gamey rabbit and mushroom links, and a wall of taps has over 100 beer options. Long outdoor picnic tables sit under strings of lights; there is also regular live music, pig roasts, and even a small dog park.
Bangersaustin.com
Sour Duck
Shaded picnic tables, a simple kid’s menu, and a fence that keeps the half pints contained: That’s what makes this eatery, the sister restaurant to a popular date night spot Odd Duck, so great with kids. Fare is casual and tasty, think burgers and brisket melts, Gulf red fish, and watermelon salads.
Sourduckmarket.com
Fresa’s (South First Location)
Say “salud!” with watermelon agua frescas and refreshing cucumber margaritas at this colorful restaurant that specializes in rotisserie-style chicken as well as grilled skirt steak and prawns. Regulars also love the power bowls (greens, sweet potato, chickpeas, roasted cauliflower, and agave-lime chicken) that also comes in a kid-friendly version. There’s lots of room to roam in restaurant’s live oak-shaded courtyard, and in-the-know families come with chalk to draw on the ground’s massive blackboards.
1703 South First Street; fresaschicken.com
Veracruz Tacos and Radio Coffee
Austinites have strong opinions on Veracruz’s top taco, whether it’s the fish topped with avocado and mango or the Migas breakfast taco made with eggs, tortilla chips, and Monterrey Jack. There are five locations across the city; our favorite with kids is the South Austin truck parked on Radio Coffee’s grounds. Radio not only has excellent java and beers on tap, but also an outdoor dining area with room to run around.
veracruzallnatural.com
Matt’s El Rancho
Craving Tex-Mex? This classic ATX restaurant is large and boisterous, so your kids will be in good company whether they’re dining inside or out. Crayons and coloring menus are served with meals, and the patio coy pond is a hit attraction among the littles (whether the fish like it or not). The chips and salsa are always flowing, as are the margaritas, and dishes like Gulf-sourced red fish tacos and sizzling fajitas could feed a little city. Arrive early: Even though this restaurant can seat more than 500, it often has a wait, even on a random Tuesday.
mattselrancho.com
Whole Foods
Yes, I know. You have one in your neighborhood. But Austin’s downtown location on North Lamar is the flagship market (Whole-Foods was founded in ATX in 1980). This location has loads of prepared food options kids can choose from, from slices of pizza and bowls of ramen to a fish counter and a coffee and gelato bar. Outside on the second floor, you’ll also find a playground, courtyard, and—in the winter months—a small ice skating rink.
525 North Lamar Blvd.; Wholefoods.com
COFEE COFFEE COFFEE
A cup of joe, we’ve decided, is as essential to a family trip as a passport. When your kids are dragging you out the door at 6 AM, or if you need an afternoon pick-me-up, here’s where to get caffeinated.
Patika Coffee
This spot has, hands down, the best cappuccino in ATX, along with a little courtyard where families will feel at ease. And the food here—a crustless quiche with asparagus and fat squares of ham, thick-cut French toast topped with berries and plenty of syrup—puts other coffee shops to shame. Location No. 2 is now open at 100 Congress Avenue.
2159 South Lamar Blvd.; patikacoffee.com
Alta’s Cafe
Located downtown, the coffee and smoothie shop at this Rowing Center has casual picnic tables and lovely views. It’s also next to the Waller Creek Boathouse where you can rent stand-up paddleboards and kayaks and get out on Lady Bird Lake.
altascafe.com
Cherrywood Coffee
An East Austin favorite, this edgy coffee shop has a large patio and stage, where kid-friendly music shows (local band Groundwork Music Orchestra is a favorite) regularly play on weekends.
Better Half
While this stylish spot is located on the edge of some of Austin’s most desired neighborhoods, it’s also right against train tracks that get plenty of action. A backyard table means you can enjoy a peaceful cup of coffee (or a glass of wine) while kiddos watch the choo choos. Hungry? Don’t miss the Big Salad—there’s sweet corn, edamame, and avocado in there—and cauliflower tots.
betterhalfbar.com
Tom’s Shoes
Yes, this is a shoe store. And now a glasses store. And an accessories shop. But they also serve a great cup of joe, and—assuming your child doesn’t break said glasses and grab said shoes—a family friendly spot thanks to picnic tables, lounge chairs, and a sandy lawn for corn hole.
1401 South Congress Ave; toms.com
RAINY DAY PLANS
Everyone catches an off day on a family trip, whether it rains or—more likely in ATX—is too hot to enjoy the outdoors. Along with places like the Austin Library, Bullock Museum, and the Thinkery, covered above, here are a few spots to keep in your back pocket for an off weather day.
Austin Bouldering Project
Friends who climb regularly—and I can’t say I’m in that camp—tell me that this is one of the best indoor bouldering facilities they’ve ever been to. Located in a in East Austin, about 15 minutes from downtown, this indoor climbing zone has walls for all, beginners to advanced. They also have special events like Toddler Time on Wednesday mornings, and a drop-off Parent’s Night Out when kids (ages 5 to 12) can play climbing games while moms and dads grab dinner—or get a climb in themselves ($12 per child for three hours).
austinboulderingproject.com
Alamo Drafthouse
Along with kid-friendly blockbusters and kid’s dishes (this theater serves brunch, lunch, and dinner) the Drafthouse has an “Alamo for All” program which admits parents with babies to all movies on Tuesdays before 2 PM. Lights are turned up a bit, sound is turned down a touch, and crying, breastfeeding, and snoring is totally allowed.
drafthouse.com
Little Yoga House
Austinites are obsessed with a few things: music, tacos, and yoga. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that there is a yoga studio primarily designed for children and families. Regular classes range from Toddler Yoga and Art—singing, chanting, and painting encouraged—to beginner Aerial Yoga for kiddos as young as six.
thelittleyogahouse.com
Austin Tinkering School
Move over Playskool: Use real hammers, saws, and even welding equipment at this center where kids (ages five and up) create everything from puppets and checkers sets to rocking chairs. While the majority of the programming lasts several weeks, there are also drop-in days, ideal for travelers.
austintinkeringschool.com
FAMILY FRIENDLY LIVE MUSIC
The Live Music Capital of the World has something for everyone, even families. Dozens of venues keep kids in mind, and many even go out of their way to add kiddie bands to the lineup. Cherrywood Coffee has regular shows by Groundwork Music Orchestra, a band that has managed to write kid’s music that adults can tolerate. High school bands and choirs perform at local grocery Central Market’s north location (4001 North Lamar), which is next to a great playground, to boot. During the summer months, Zilker Park turns into one big picnic blanket thanks to Blues on the Green, a free event that attracts thousands; even the world renowned Austin City Limits festival puts on Austin Kiddie Limits, where half pints can join sing-a-longs and drum circles.
BEER, AND THEN SOME
Austin has dozens of breweries, many of which are kid-friendly thanks to an indoor/outdoor setting and relaxed vibe. And should you need something stronger than a pint, we’ve got you covered.
Vista Brewing
The modern taproom at this beautiful brewery opens up to shaded picnic tables and contemporary play structures, slides, and swings. They make about a dozen beers on the Hill Country grounds, and have a menu—charcuterie plates and ratatouille—that incorporates produce grown on the 21-plus acres.
vistabrewingtx.com
Cosmic
If you’re in the mood for a quality cocktail—say a heady Old Fashioned or inventive coffee Negroni—and can’t find a sitter, Cosmic is there for you. The small bar has a large patio space dotted with picnic tables and fire pits, as well as a collection of rotating food trucks for meals and snacks (the barbacoa from Leroy and Lewis Barbecue is one favorite bite). Kids are also entertained by a beautiful pond and garden—home to coy, toads and lizards—as well as a chicken coop.
cosmiccoffeebeer.com
St. Elmo Brewing Co.
This award winning urban brewery, located in a warehouse in an up-and-coming area in South Austin, has a large outdoor space where kids can play with the odd digger or dump truck while you sip an ice cold Carl Kolch. Also catch live bluegrass on Thursdays.
stelmobrewing.com
ABGB
The Austin Beer Garden Brewing company, located on Oltorf in south/central Austin, makes their own brews, as well as tasty pizzas and salads. Plenty of outdoor seating and a boisterous interior means kids can run around with little worry. theabgb.com
Jester King Brewery
Located on 165 Hill Country acres 20 minutes outside of Austin’s city center, Jester King has embraced its popularity among families by dedicating a good 20-yard stretch to a modest playground and sand pit full of shovels and diggers; kids can also kick a soccer ball an open field while you pass the pitcher. The bonus here is the pizza, made with Texas-sourced grains and inventive toppings like braised pork shoulder or corn and hatch chiles.
jesterkingbrewery.com
South Congress Hotel
At the risk of irritating this hip hotel, the lobby bar is a great place to order a cocktail in the late afternoon with kids in tow. The set-up—lounge-worthy couches and low-rise tables—allows you to sandwich lively bodies into a corner, and tasty parmesan French fries keep them settled for a stretch. As soon as the dinner crowd moves in though, it’s probably time to make room for the suits.
Southcongresshotel.com
SWEETS & ICE CREAM
The kids deserve it. You deserve it. End the day with a well-earned treat.
Le Politique
This downtown French restaurant has an elegant patisserie with splashy wall paper, marble cafe tables, and colorful woven chairs. Stop in for a decadent sweet like a sugary kouign-amann or a chocolate hazelnut tart. The restaurant also has a kid’s menu as well as a pastry happy hour (3-4 PM Sunday through Friday; 6-7 PM on Saturday).
lepolitiqueaustin.com
Sugar Mamas
If you show up at a birthday party in Austin and the parents have a Sugar Mamas cake, you know they splurged. The cupcakes are delicious, thanks to a nice sponge, balanced icing, and flavors that include a cinnamon-themed dulce de churro and the orange and salted caramel-based Salty LuLu.
sugarmamasbakeshop.com
Lick
This ice cream is almost good for you. Almost. Owners Anthony and Chad really care about their ingredients, sourcing organic, local, and small batch whenever possible. And flavors like chocolate with sea salt and olive oil and goat cheese, thyme, and honey, lean into adult-approved flavors.
Ilikelick.com
Upper Crust Bakery
Morning or afternoon, this Austin favorite delivers with sugar-crusted cinnamon rolls, chewy chocolate chip cookies, and slices of Marisa cake with strawberries tucked into layers of icing.
UpperCrustBakery.com
Dulce Neve
With owners named Francesca, Leo, and Marco, and an ice cream maker from the Boot, you know this is the real gelato deal. It’s hard to mess up an order, but scoops of salted caramel and hazelnut are personal favorites.
dolcenevegelato.com
KID-FRIENDLY SHOPS
These spots have great gifts and souvenirs for babies and kids.
Alexa James Baby
(Photo credit: Claire Zinnecker)
In a world where so much kid’s stuff is mass-produced and available online, this store is worth your time for its high-quality, one-of-a-kind items. Clothes, gifts, and toys are beautifully displayed, and a kids’ corner with a bookshelf and playhouse keeps kids occupied while you browse. Clothes—so cute you’ll be asking for the adult version—include local brands like Classic Childhood and Little Dumplings.
AlexaJames.com
Sparkle Kids
You’ll find baby and kid clothes (and shoes, toys, and accessories) you love at a fraction of the price at this children’s resale store. They’re picky and stay seasonal, so you won’t be hunting through crammed racks.
SparkleKidsResale.com
Terra Toys
This is Austin’s go-to toy store, worth stopping in if you’re staying north. They’ve got sections dedicated to games, music, art, dolls, and even Texas: think armadillos, longhorns, and all things cowboy.
terratoys.com
DATE NIGHT
If you know anything about Half Pint Travel, you know we advocate for #childcarewhiletraveling. In other words, hire a babysitter (see the tool box for recommendations), and—freedom secured—have a vacation from your family vacation. Here are a few date night ideas.
Make a reservation at Olamaie, where James Beard-nominated chef Michael Fojtasek’s creative southern dishes (tomato pie, gulf shrimp with red rice, and a Rittenhouse Rye-brined pork chop) get a serious upgrade thanks to inspired recipes and produce from local farms.
Our newest favorite restaurant is Comedor, a fantastic interior Mexican spot with sleek, modern interiors and dishes such as bone marrow tacos and Yellowfin tuna in a spicy chili-watermelon aguachile.
Mollusk-lovers should make a reservation at Clark’s Oyster Bar, which we also like for its cheerful design and mains like Gulf red fish paired with rosemary shoestring fries. Sister restaurant Jeffrey’s also has an elegant bar (reservations required), with great cocktails and a generous happy hour on otherwise prohibitively expensive food.
And while it’s possible to pull off a dinner with kids at Japanese restaurants Uchi and Uchiko—lucky half pints love “cooking” their own Wagu on hot rocks—dishes such as salmon sashimi served with Asian pear yuzu, and crispy dinosaur kale are meant to be savored, not shoveled, so it’s much more enjoyable without them.
Austin’s dance halls, namely White Horse on the East Side and the Broken Spoke on South Lamar, are a great way to end the night in cowboy boots. On South Congress, the storied Continental Club and C-Boys Heart & Soul are ideal for an intimate show. Headliners are more likely to be at Moody Theater, located downtown, also where PBS’s ACL Live is taped.
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AUSTIN TRAVEL
TOOL BOX
Airport
The Austin Bergstrom Airport is well designed and has outposts of popular local restaurants like JuiceLand—known for its fresh fruit and veggie smoothies—and the Peached Tortilla, where southern-inspired dishes have an Asian kick. There are also Mamava nursing pods and family bathrooms with changing tables.
Getting Around
Depending on where you are staying in Austin, renting a car might be essential. While underutilized, the bus system is good for central transport, and you can buy tickets easily using the CapMetro app. Taxis, Lyfts, and Ubers are plentiful and a local rideshare company Ride Austin is a resident favorite as it donates to area charities.
Babysitting
Parents here swear by Bambino, an app that connects you to sitters recommended by local parents around the city. Babysitters set their own rates and availability, and range from junior sitters (generally younger sitters with lower rates) to degreed childcare professionals. Hotels such as the Four Seasons and the Stephen F. Austin hotel use a service called Grandparents Unlimited, which pairs parents with more senior caregivers that are First Aid and CPR certified, have passed background checks, and have extensive service under their belts. Rates start at $18.
Forgot Something?
Drugstores such as CVS and Walgreens are found all over the city. HEB and the more upscale Central Market are also Texas-based and locally loved grocery stores.
If your child is sick…
The Pharmacists at People’s RX are knowledgeable and customer service oriented should you be looking for advice on something like a common cold. Dell Children’s is the city’s best hospital for kids.
Pack Light
Need a car seat, travel crib, or high chair? Popular gear rental site BabyQuip also has providers all over Austin.
Bring it Back
Read about Austin’s bats, tacos, queso, and more in W is for Weird, an alphabet book by native Lori Otto Samocha, which highlights the best of ATX. You can find it at Alexa James, as well as beloved independent bookstore Book People.
Kids are Expensive. Here’s How to Save. Several sites, such as Free Fun in Austin and Do 512 (512 is Austin’s area code) are great resources for events that are inexpensive or gratis. The Austin Tourism Bureau also has a page dedicated to deals and discounts. This city also isn’t shy about its love for happy hour—the time when many families are eating, anyway—and places like Loro and Contigo have specials on food as well as drinks. If you’re looking to save on flight costs, be sure to compare ticket prices on flights at San Antonio International Airport, which is between one and 1.5 hours from Austin.
When to Go
Austin comes alive in the spring and fall, and winter—while not the most beautiful time in the Texas Hill Country—is relatively mild. Summer here is hot, really hot, and unless you plan on submerging in a pool, lake, or bowl of ice water at least once a day, avoid Austin from mid-July through early September. March and October, while prime weather-wise, are also the most expensive months to visit thanks to Austin’s version of the F word: Festivals.
ASK A LOCAL
(Photo credit: Claire Zinnecker)
Meet Karina Drake, the owner of our favorite children’s clothing and gift shop, Alexa James Baby. Karina’s thoughtful collections gravitate towards minimal and modern aesthetics with moments of pop, and are always organic and all natural when possible. She also hosts regular baby yoga, music classes, and other events in her store. Below, Karina gives us some of her favorite family friendly pit stops in ATX.
What is your go-to family friendly restaurant that adults also love? The Fareground, Austin’s downtown food hall, has options ranging from haute grilled cheese sandwiches to raman and sushi to Israeli street food. It’s also a great place to play and listen to live music; on Saturdays they host Family Fare, which has kiddie bands, face painting, and fitness activities in their courtyard.
What is one place that makes your rainy day—or beat the heat—plan? Austin’s Central Library! And once the rain clears you can head to Second Street, which is lined with great bites and independent kid-friendly shops like Toy Joy.
What are your favorite outdoor spots in Austin with kids? When it’s warm outside, we love Deep Eddy and Barton Springs pools. Once the weather cools we love going to Zilker and riding the Zilker Zephyr miniature train.
What made-in-ATX souvenir should your kiddos not leave town without?A pair of cowboy boots from Allen’s Boots on South Congress Avenue is a splurge, but worth it. They’re beautiful make a decorative addition to a shelf after your little one grows out of them.
What are your family travel packing essentials? Books, stickers, snacks (some healthy, some for bribing!), the Yoyo Stroller and an iPad for the plane, because, SURVIVAL.