Read the book online for free

Photography by
Cherie Hogan Photography
Mural Artists:
Todd Sanders and Rory Skagen
As the family expert for the True Austin program run by the Austin
Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, my role is to recommend the best
kid-friendly fun in Austin. I field questions from parents planning a
trip here, as well as questions from locals wondering how to entertain
family visiting from out of town. Some wonder where to eat, others
are looking for family-friendly live music, and many are seeking agespecific recommendations. I love this job! There is something magical
about helping others get excited about exploring Austin with kids in
tow.
At Free Fun in Austin, we have the very same goal. We want to give
you the information you need to have a great time in our amazing city.
Whether you live in Austin or are just passing through, our aim is to
encourage exceptional local adventures for families. Be sure to visit
the True Austin and Free Fun in Austin websites for timely events and
information when planning your visit.
For this e-book, Family Fun in Austin, I invited several of Free Fun
in Austin’s contributing writers to each share an itinerary for a family
outing in one area of town. From the University of Texas at Austin
campus to Zilker Park and beyond, these local mamas have got you
covered. I hope you enjoy reading their tips for checking out some
of Austin’s most beloved sights. Please visit the website provided
for each locale to find current prices and hours of operation before
heading off. Although the writers focused primarily on budget-friendly
entertainment, not all of the attractions listed in this e-book are free.
Happy exploring!
Heidi Gollub
Founder & Editor,
Free Fun in Austin
Heart of Austin:
1 Zilker Park
Heidi Okla
3 Downtown
Heather King
5 UT Campus
Leigh Ann Torres
Best of the Rest:
7 South Austin
Nicole Basham
9 East Austin
Emily Dieringer
11West Austin
Heidi Okla
13North Austin
Nicole Basham
15Gateway to the Hill Country
Kristin Shaw
17Cedar Park, Leander, Round Rock, Pflugerville
Nicole Basham
Photography by Cherie Hogan Photography
When Cherie isn’t busy being a mom to her rambunctious kids,
you can find her capturing the in-between moments through
her camera’s lens. Specializing in lifestyle photography, she
enjoys shooting weddings, families, and high school seniors
in a way that captures the love and personality of the people
she photographs. Find Cherie on Facebook and through her
website.
heidi okla
There are so many reasons why Zilker Metropolitan
Park is considered “Austin’s most-loved park.”
Located on Lady Bird Lake, it’s home to a wide variety
of activities and some of the city’s most popular
attractions: Barton Springs Pool, Zilker Botanical
Garden, the Umlauf Sculpture Garden, Austin Nature
and Science Center and the Zilker Zephyr kiddie
train, as well as the Austin City Limits Music Festival
held each fall and the Trail of Lights during the winter
holiday season. This 351-acre park also offers several
athletic fields and plenty of open space for playing
games, taking a jog, or having a picnic.
It could take days to explore everything Zilker
Park has to offer. But there are a few family-friendly
highlights that I just can’t let friends pass up when
they are in town.
When my family is planning a day at Zilker Park,
the first thing we do on the way is stop for breakfast
tacos or kolaches to take with us for a morning picnic.
(Try Maria’s Taco Xpress for tacos or Moonlight
Bakery for kolaches, both on nearby South Lamar
Blvd.) We eat and play in the impressive playscape
near the train depot, which features oversized
xylophones and a real antique fire truck for climbing.
We usually plan to ride the Zilker Zephyr kiddie train
in the morning hours to avoid crowds or heat from
the afternoon Texas sun (especially in the summer).
The highlight of the ride for the little ones is definitely
going through the tunnels. Choo choooo!
After riding the train and playing on the playscape
for a while, there are a variety of other destinations
within Zilker to choose from, but my kids always ask to
go to the Austin Nature and Science Center. Located
on the western edge of Zilker Park, the Nature and
Science Center includes lovely hands-on educational
exhibits including the Naturalist Workshop, where
kids can explore touchable specimens through
microscopes and magnifying glasses. Visitors can walk
through the wildlife exhibit and take a look at live
animals such as coyotes, skunks, owls and raccoons
that have been orphaned or injured and are now
getting care from the staff. But the one aspect of
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the center that my children adore
most is the Dino Pit. Kids can play
paleontologist in a large sandy area
and dig for buried bones. And all of
the fun offered at the Austin Nature
and Science Center is absolutely
free!
Bordering on the Nature and
Science Center, you’ll find the
Zilker Botanical Garden. What a
gorgeous place to take a stroll!
The botanical garden is located on
31 acres of varied topography that
is especially suited for displaying
an array of native, hybrid and exotic
plants. For a low fee, you can explore
a Japanese garden that includes a little
waterfall and koi ponds; the Pioneer Village,
which includes a cabin built in 1840; the pretty
rose garden, butterfly trail and cactus trail; and the
Hartman Prehistoric Garden, which showcases a
statue of the dinosaur Ornithomimus surrounded by
plants originating from the Jurassic period. The Zilker
Botanical Garden is a picture-perfect spot to capture
some great photographs of your kids among the
flowers.
Following these adventures in Zilker, you’re sure to
work up a Texas-sized appetite. While there are many
dining options just outside of the park on Barton
Springs Rd., my family always begs to go to Chuy’s for
some delicious Tex-Mex. This original Chuy’s location
is appealing to the kids with its vibrant colors and
eclectic design, including a mirror-ball wall on the
exterior and Elvis shrine inside. But it’s also the food
that kids love—tacos, queso, Hatch green chile sauce,
yum! Chuy’s is an Austin original that has caught on
across the country, with restaurants popping up in
more and more cities.
If you’ve still got time for more Zilker fun after
lunch, head back into the park for a dip in the cool,
clear waters of Barton Springs Pool. The pool itself
measures 3 acres in size and is fed from underground
springs, with an average temperature of 70 degrees—
ideal for cooling folks down in the scorching summer
heat, but many locals swim year-round. Entrance fees for
the pool are quite reasonable. If you’re swimming with
little ones, you can head to the south end of the pool
where the water is more shallow, but be careful: It’s quite
slippery, so water shoes can come in handy. Whether you
dive right in, just dip in your toes, or simply sit on the
grassy hillside by the pool for some people-watching,
you can be sure that you’re getting a true taste of Austin
by visiting this local gem.
Freelance web producer Heidi Okla is mom to three boys
(ages 3, 5 and 7) and can’t pass up any opportunity for fun
family adventures.
Browse her literacyfocused kids’
activities on her
blog, Read ‘Em and
Leap.
2
H e at h e r K i n g
P
acked into the center of Austin are entrepreneurs
and corporate junkies in high-rise buildings,
as well as hip urban-dwellers in modern lofts and
condos. This business-focused center is nestled in the
midst of what “keeps Austin weird”—locally owned
mom-and-pop shops and restaurants for the hipster,
the wanderer, the tourist and, well, everybody! Visitors
will experience no shortage of sites to see, food to eat,
stores to shop, and historical locations to peruse, but
may have trouble narrowing them down. No worries,
friends. You can’t go wrong with these faves.
The Bullock Texas State History Museum is filled
with the rich Texan history this state holds dear. Even
the smaller tots are entertained with the expansive
exhibits, which pull museum-goers into The Story of
Texas. There are three levels of exhibits with different
themes, and many are interactive. Come for the
education and stay for some 3-D entertainment at the
IMAX theater. Bonus: The first Sunday of the month,
admission to the museum is free!
Just a few blocks south of The Bullock Museum
is the State Capitol of Texas. This beautiful building
is surrounded by 22 acres of gorgeous grounds and
monuments to discover. The Capitol Visitor’s Center
is staffed with tour guides and counselors to take
you on a (free!) tour of the building and grounds.
Self-guided tours are also an option, and you’ll be
provided with pamphlets to help your family get
around and stay informed.
After you’ve had your fill of Texas history, or if
taking in the historical sites isn’t your thing, make
your way south on Congress Avenue for a hilarious
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improv show at the Hideout
Theater. If you haven’t experienced
improv theater, this is your chance,
and if you love improv theater, this
spot will not disappoint! Check the
Hideout’s calendar for times to fit
your trip agenda and look for their
Sunday afternoon kids’ improv
shows with Flying Theater Machine.
Are you getting hungry?
Thought so. Austin is known for
its excellent food, and downtown
has everything from super casual
to fine dining. If you’re wrangling
the small ones, a great stop in
your day is the downtown Whole
Foods Market at 6th and Lamar. A
must-see for foodies, the flagship
store has its own unique style and
vibe. It’s also a great place to pick
up some healthy lunch, shop for
some snacks, and play. Yes, play! The
roof of this Whole Foods is home to a
playground for the kids and a great view
of Austin for you. Got a babysitter? Head to
the Driskill Grill, famously known for its exquisite
food and atmosphere, located in the beautiful Driskill
Hotel.
It’s getting late … it’s about to get dark … are
you ready for bed, or are you ready for BATS?
Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in
North America. We’re talking upward of 1.5 million
Mexican free-tailed bats streaming out from under
the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge.
Seeing the bats is as easy as showing up
somewhere near the bridge (at Congress
Ave. where it crosses Lady Bird Lake).
Each night at dusk, the bats leave their
home en masse for their nightly hunting
escapades. At the peak of the season, it
can take up to 45 minutes for all the bats
to leave the bridge. You will be witness
to the largest cloud of any living thing
you’ve ever seen! Kids love it, and if you’d
like an even more unique experience, see
the bats from the water. Both Lone Star
Riverboat and Capital Cruises offer “bat
cruises.” For planning purposes, note
that late summer is the best time to see the bats,
but they begin congregating in March and leave for
warmer climates in September.
Word-Nerd Bonus Locale: One of the
best bookstores ever is in downtown Austin.
BookPeople, independently owned since 1970, is
one of those places that brings out the “I’ve been
there!” in people. And it’s not just a store, but a
community, supporting local authors and their
readers. Kids will love the children’s area (check
the website for storytimes) and grownups will love
… everything. It is located at 6th and Lamar (right
by Whole Foods and right across the street from
Waterloo Records, a local legend for music-ophiles).
Heather King lives north of Austin
and adventures downtown (or
nearby) with her family almost
every weekend. She is a freelance
writer and also writes regularly at
her personal website,
The Extraordinary Ordinary.
4
Leigh Ann Torres
J
ust north of the Capitol and downtown Austin,
the University of Texas campus is a perfect
destination for an excursion. From history and culture
to sports and education, the large but dense campus
has something for everyone in the family. We’ll take
you on a tour of some of its well-known highlights and
hidden gems. Parking on the UT campus can be tricky,
but this map of campus area parking garages gives
you several options.
Start at the southwest corner of campus, at the
Harry Ransom Center (HRC), where guests can view
the Gutenberg Bible, the first major book printed with
moveable type in the West. The HRC owns one of only
21 copies in known existence. Also on view at the HRC
is the first photograph, taken by Joseph Nicéphore
Niépce in 1826 or 1827. Both are on display in the
lobby, but if you have time, head further into the HRC
to view the current exhibit. Admission is free.
Next, head up 21st St. and pause for a photo op
in front of the Littlefield Fountain with the famous
UT Tower in the background. Walk up the tree-lined
South Mall, flanked on each side by some of the
university’s oldest buildings (also known as the
“Six Pack”) on your way to the Main Building for a
45-minute self-guided tour of the UT Tower. If you
have a little extra time before
your tour, explore nearby
Battle Hall, also known as the
Architecture & Planning Library,
one of the oldest and most
intricately detailed buildings on
campus. A little further north,
still walking distance, take the
family to see the historical (and
possibly haunted) Littlefield
House and the Battle Oaks,
three massive, intertwined oak
trees that have stood since the
Civil War.
After your tower tour,
check out the turtles at the
College of Natural Sciences’
turtle pond, just on the north
side of the Main Building. If you
plan ahead, you can pick up
some turtle food from a local
pet shop and give them a little
snack.
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Speaking of snacks, the nearby
Texas Union has several options
for hungry tourists, from fast
food to the Field of Greens Fresh
Market, which sources its food
locally. After grabbing a bite, head
downstairs for a quick game at the
Union Underground, a 12-lane
bowling alley and billiard hall one
floor below the food court. Check
the website to see if Glow Bowl fits
your schedule. Older kids will love
the black lights, lasers and music.
After throwing a few strikes
and spares, it’s time to head to
the south end of campus and the
Blanton Museum of Art, located
at the intersection of Congress
Ave. and Martin Luther King, Jr.
Blvd. The Blanton houses one of the
largest collections of art in Central
Texas and hosts many traveling
exhibitions as well. Admission for kids
under 12 is always free, and there’s a
Family Creativity Center on the second floor
mezzanine where budding artists can create
their own works.
Upon leaving the Blanton, you’re probably
close to where you parked. It’s time to hop into your
car and head over to the east end of campus for
a few more can’t-miss spots. The LBJ Presidential
Library and Museum, on Red River St., is a popular
attraction honoring Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency.
The museum houses three floors of photos, artifacts,
telephone recordings and even a replica of the Oval
Office during his time in the White House. Park for
free in Lot 38 (entrance on Red River St., flanked by
library banners).
After soaking in some presidential history, it’s just
a short walk over to the Texas Memorial Museum,
where kids and adults alike can marvel at exhibits
of fossils, wildlife, gems and minerals, plus a Texas
Pterosaur, the largest flying creature ever found.
Make sure you end this part of the tour with a stop
at the Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.
The UT Athletics Department provides guided tours,
or you can take a self-guided tour with views of
the football field, a museum filled with history and
artifacts of Bevo—the university’s beloved Longhorn
mascot—and the trophy room, displaying National
Championship and Heisman
trophies, among other awards.
Texas Union snacks be darned,
after hoofing it all over the UT
campus, you deserve a decent meal.
Head on over to Trudy’s Texas Star,
a campus-area tradition since 1977,
and kick back with a Mexican martini
while the kids gobble down some
nachos, quesadillas or other TexMex delights. You’ve earned it!
Leigh Ann Torres is a freelance writer
and blogger living in Austin with
her husband and three girls. She’s
a pretty good cook, a mediocre
photographer and a horrible
housekeeper. She
writes about the
good, the bad
and the ridiculous
of life with twins
plus one at Genie
in a Blog.
6
Best of the Rest
I
f you plan to spend more than a day or two in Austin, or just want to venture outside of its
center, you’ll find that our city has tons more family fun to offer. Our guide to “the rest” of
Austin, divided roughly by region, gives you the best bets for kid-friendly activities from families
who live and play there.
Nicole Ba sham
If everything is bigger in Texas, then everyone is
friendlier in Austin, and a laid-back, casual atmosphere
makes it easy for travelers to fall in love with the
capital city. Nowhere is this vibe more prevalent than
in south Austin, an area longtime residents simply
refer to as “south of the river.”
Austin is a study in contrasts, with politicos,
creatives, tech transplants, professors, foodies and
families sitting side by side at locally owned coffee
shops like the South Congress Ave. staple, Jo’s. South
Congress—or “SoCo”—was once frequented by
prostitutes and drug dealers, but is now a vibrant
thoroughfare with boutiques and eateries lining
both sides of the street. There’s a lot to see, but it’s
well worth making a stop at Lucy in Disguise for
the kids. Their eyes will pop as they step inside this
deluxe costume
store, brimming
with anything you
could possibly need
to assume another
identity. Lucy’s is
packed from ceiling
to floor with hats,
wigs, masks, jewelry
and all types of
clothing, a lot of
which you can
try on. Although
business is steady
all year, expect
the store to be
especially chaotic in
the weeks leading
up to Halloween.
Allens Boots is
just south of Lucy’s
and is a mainstay
of SoCo. Upon
walking in, you’ll
be greeted by the
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aroma of leather, thanks to Allens’
mind-boggling selection of cowboy
boots for men, women and, yes,
kids. Allens also has cowboy hats,
western wear and other souvenirs
to remind you that you are, indeed,
in Texas. Once you’ve had your
fill of cowboy culture, head south
another two blocks to Big Top
Candy Shop, a celebration of all
things sugary. Not only does Big
Top have over 300 types of bulk
candy and thousands of varieties of
packaged treats lining its walls, but
the store also offers refreshments
like shaved ice, floats and ice cream at
its soda fountain. After a trip to Big Top,
you are sure to have secured Parent of the
Year status.
Once you have poked your head into a few
more stores on SoCo, load your crew into the car
and make a trip down to the Lady Bird Johnson
Wildflower Center. Although we have a lush botanical
garden in Zilker Park, the Wildflower Center was
created to honor its namesake, Lady Bird Johnson,
the former First Lady who saw beauty in native plants.
Stroll among gardens throughout the property to
learn more about the different landscapes found in
Central Texas. A highlight is the Cathedral of Oaks
on the Texas Arboretum Trail, where you can select
from dozens of swings and take a break in the shade
beneath towering trees.
You might have heard that we appreciate weird
here in Austin, and one place that certainly fits the
definition is the Cathedral of Junk. Unassuming from
the street, Vince Hannemann’s backyard contains an
evolving, gigantic DIY clubhouse you could spend
hours exploring. Part art, part upcycling and all fun,
the Cathedral of Junk shows that one person’s trash
(rotary dial telephones, Barbies, tiles, tools, wires, tires
and so much more) is truly another person’s treasure.
Call ahead to make an appointment to visit, and be sure to bring
along a $10 donation for your group.
From the days of Janis Joplin playing at Threadgill’s to the rise
in popularity of the Austin City Limits Music Festival, music is
interwoven into our city’s history. And no trip to Austin would be
complete without live music, so the last stop is the Broken Spoke, one
of Austin’s few remaining country-and-western bars. When you arrive,
notice how old and new Austin have had to learn to coexist, with “the
Spoke” almost engulfed by new developments. What hasn’t changed
is the unpaved parking lot, the regulars gliding across the dance
floor to local bands, and an entire room full of photos and other
memorabilia from music legends who have played here in the past. If
staying for two-stepping is out of the question, your crew can always
try their hands at shuffleboard and sample the restaurant’s chickenfried steak, which is rumored to be the best in Austin. Chances are,
you’ll find yourself getting comfortable. This is
Austin, after all.
A recovering workaholic, Nicole Basham now
spends her time rediscovering Austin through
her almost-8-year-old son’s eyes. Nicole, a
soccer-playing mom, also enjoys tickling too
close to bedtime, making and consuming baked
goods, and being silly. You can find more of her
writing at Free Fun in Austin, LiveMom and
Savvy Source for Parents.
8
E m i ly d i e r i n g e r
T
he neighborhoods east of downtown hold
a treasure trove of museums, locally owned
restaurants and, perhaps unexpectedly, farms.
The blackland prairie east of I-35 has played a
central role in Austin’s farm-to-table movement. A
handful of urban farms tucked within east Austin’s
established neighborhoods offers families the
unique opportunity to see where food is grown and
to get to know the folks doing the growing, all less
than 10 minutes from downtown.
Springdale Farm grows over 75 seasonal veggies,
beautiful flowers and herbs on their 5 acres. Your kids
will have a blast watching Springdale’s chickens and
ducks, but it’s Ellie May, the farm dog, who is sure
to steal their hearts. Boggy Creek Farm, one of the
oldest urban market farms in the country, has been
feeding Austin since 1992. In addition to offering
farm-fresh produce, Boggy Creek partners with other
farmers to showcase local dairy and meats. You can
kick back in the shade of a stately live oak tree and
nibble on some award-winning artisan cheeses while
your little ones drive toy trucks in the dirt under
the watchful eyes of chickens. Head a little farther
east, and you’ll find Green Gate Farms, unique in its
mission to nurture the next generation of farmers
through classes, workshops and camps. On select
Fridays families are welcome to explore the farm,
commune with the animals (hogs, goats and sheep, oh
my!), and while away some time swinging under the
old oak tree.
Just a hop, skip and jump from any one of these
farms lies The Thinkery, Austin’s new children’s
museum, in the Mueller development (site of the
former Austin Municipal Airport). The Thinkery has
a focus on STEAM learning: science, technology,
engineering, art and math. Two lovely, light-filled
floors of exhibits—exploring everything from
healthy living and kitchen science to tinkering and
design challenges—embrace the STEAM theme and
guarantee that your whole family, grownups included,
will stay engaged and entertained. If you find yourself
running short on time, the Currents exhibit upstairs is
not to be missed.
If your kids don’t wear themselves out on the
Thinkery’s out-of-this-world playscape, the Mueller
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development offers a plethora
of energy-burning activities.
Right across the street from the
Thinkery’s entrance is Mueller Lake
Park, which boasts a fenced-in
playground (with water fountains
and restrooms), an easy loop trail
around the lake, ducks to feed,
and acres of lush green grass for
romping or lounging. Want to
sweeten the deal with a picnic?
Take a short walk over to Mueller
Trailer Eats, where a bevy of food
truck options awaits. Happen to be
visiting on a Sunday? Grab some
delicious local fare at the Mueller
Farmers Market.
Perhaps you’re hungry but
walking just isn’t your thing? Drive
on over to Paco’s Tacos. This momand-pop shop does its part to keep
Austin weird while cooking up tasty tacos
with a smile. Their kid-friendly outdoor
seating area can’t be beat. If BBQ’s what you
crave, Micklethwait Craft Meats is sure to satisfy. This
tiny trailer will fill your brood with craft meats by the
pound or by the plate (you’d be remiss to skip the
sausage of the day), along with delectable sides and
homemade desserts while they last. Picnic tables can
fill quickly here but don’t despair. Get it to go and
scoot down the road to Rosewood Park for a picnic
with some room to roam.
In her life before kids, Emily held jobs as a zookeeper,
a middle school teacher and a tour bus driver in the
wilds of Montana—not one of which prepared her for
the adventures of motherhood. Now she’s living the
good life in Austin with her husband, two sons and a
Great Dane. When she’s not
off gallivanting with her boys,
you might find Emily baking
up a mean batch of cupcakes,
recalling obscure ‘80s song
lyrics, or dreaming of peace
and quiet.
10
Heidi okla
W
henever friends come to town, I love to
show them aspects of Texas that might
surprise them. Let’s venture beyond those BBQ
pits, boot-scootin’ dance halls or strolls along 6th
Street. Many folks coming from afar picture all of
Texas to be something out of a cowboy movie:
dusty, dry and flat. For that reason, I just love
taking visitors to marvel over the beautiful views
of Lake Austin and the lush landscapes along the
edge of the Texas Hill Country.
For a busy day ahead, the first plan of action is
to fuel up on delicious breakfast fare at an Austin
original, Kerbey Lane Cafe. Named for its location
on the quaint street in west Austin, Kerbey Lane
Cafe is housed in an adorable bungalow that feels
like stepping into Grandma’s house for some
homemade goodies. The cafe is well loved for its
selection of pancakes, ranging from vegan and
gluten-free options to the most decadent ones
(cinnamon roll pancakes, anyone?). This is a very
kid-friendly establishment, and they even offer
free meals for children on Tuesdays and sometimes
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during summer months, so be sure
to ask your server about specials.
Once you’re full and ready to
walk off some of those extra last
bites, head over to Mount Bonnell.
Hike up 100 steep stairs to reach
one of the highest points in Austin
for sweeping views of the lake and
hills below. This is one of Austin’s
oldest and most popular free tourist
attractions, so be sure you bring the
camera to capture the picturesque
view. My kids like to sit and watch
boats go by and pretend that they
can spy into the pools of the fancy
homes below. Mount Bonnell is a
pretty quick stop and perfect for
little ones with short attention spans.
If you’re ready to take in more
sights, there are two wonderful options
that are in very close proximity. Down
the hill you can choose between Mayfield
Park and Preserve or Laguna Gloria—or maybe
you can visit both, depending on how
much time you have.
Mayfield Park is one of my kids’
favorite destinations for a morning
hike through short trails, but you can
just as easily skip the trails and have
a grand time walking around and
enjoying the beautiful gardens, green
lawns and quiet ponds full of lily pads,
frogs and turtles. The most exciting
feature of Mayfield Park, however, is
the impressive muster of peacocks
freely roaming the grounds. My
children just love watching peacocks
perch in the trees above us or strut
around showing off their colorful
plumage. And as a bonus activity,
the kids can collect the feathers that
scatter in the grass.
Just steps away from Mayfield
Park, you’ll find Laguna Gloria, one
of my personal favorite places for
a stroll and a picnic. Laguna Gloria
is a Mediterranean-style estate
and art museum with gorgeous
gardens and breathtaking views of
Lake Austin. Austinite Clara Driscoll
purchased the property in 1914
and designed her home after being
inspired by her honeymoon in
Lake Como, Italy. The art museum
is housed in the Driscoll Villa. The
museum has an admission charge
for adults, but you can visit for free
on Tuesdays.
—Heidi Okla
12
nicole ba sham
S
ure, south Austin may have the Barton Creek
Greenbelt, but if you find yourself on the
opposite side of town, the Bull Creek Greenbelt is
a great place to enjoy the beauty of our outdoor
surroundings. Not only is it free, but it’s also a great
place to start your day, particularly during the warmer
months of the year when you want to take advantage
of lower temperatures. Depending on the time of year,
the water level will vary, and there are several access
points. The Lower Greenbelt ’s southernmost point is
Bull Creek District Park , which is frequented by many
dog owners and their furry companions. Formerly an
off-leash park, Bull Creek is now on-leash, although
parents of dog-phobic little ones should know that
there are occasionally owners who “forget” that it has
changed. The creek’s shore offers plenty of room to
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skip stones or simply to test out which
rocks make the biggest splash. On the
southern edge of the park, you may
find rock climbers testing their skills,
and there are several places kids can
also do some climbing of their own.
The 3.5-mile long Lower Greenbelt
trail extends all the way north to where
Old Spicewood Springs runs underneath
Loop 360, otherwise known as the
Capital of Texas Highway. Keep an eye
out for poison ivy along the trail, and be
prepared in case owners don’t clean up
after their dogs. Bull Creek can get deep
at times, and you’ll often see children
and dogs cooling off in its waters. You
may also spot fish, tadpoles and even an
occasional snake in the waters (usually
non-venomous, but use caution).
The Upper Greenbelt trail winds
on the outside of Loop 360, starting at
St. Edward’s District Park and ending a mile
later in the neighborhoods to the west. The trail
is a bit more shaded than on the other side of the
highway, and seems to have fewer hikers.
Once you’ve had your fill of hiking, you can continue
your outdoor fun at Northwest District Park. Tucked
between Burnet and Mopac, this park has plenty to
offer. Tennis fans can get in a few sets on the courts, and
during the summer months, the pool is a great place
to cool off (the separate shallow wading pool is great
for nascent swimmers and even has a bit of shade). Two
playgrounds and two sets of swings can please both
the younger and not-as-young set; the playground for
younger children is mostly shaded and has a nearby a
water fountain. Unlike some of the larger parks, parents
can keep an eye on both playscapes at once. There is a
ravine close to the playscapes that offers some off-thebeaten-path exploring and free play, and a picturesque
pond completes the scene. On weekends, you’ll often
spot families fishing in its waters. To the south of the
pond is a field that is great for kite flying.
After all of that outdoor activity, you are sure to be
hungry, so load up the crew and head on over to Phil’s
Ice House, just off of 183 in the Austinville shopping
center. You can pick from all manner of Austinthemed burgers, and the kids can play on the
playscape out back until your food is ready.
Make sure to save room for dessert! Amy’s Ice
Creams next door offers a rotating menu of
frozen goodness and such favorites as Mexican
vanilla. Pick some delicious toppings and your
“scooper” will crush them in for a decadent treat.
If ice cream just isn’t your thing, Baked by Amy’s
is also in the same shopping center and offers
cookies, bars, cupcakes and other baked goods.
Now that you are properly fed and have
had a chance to rest your legs, hop back into
the car and make your way to Jumpoline.
Unlike the warehouses stocked with inflatables,
Jumpoline has wall-to-wall trampolines. For the
littler set, there is an area off to the side to get
your jump on. Both kids and adults can show
off their tricks to the latest pop songs. There is
even a dodge ball area towards the back of the
facility, although it can sometimes result in tears
if your kids get hit. For adults who would rather
observe the fun, there are tables lining the
outside of the main area.
Once you’ve had your fill of jumping (adults
will discover it gets tiring very quickly!), take
a trip back in time on the short drive over to
Kiddie Acres. This retro amusement park has
been a favorite for Austin families since 1979.
Choose from a carousel, train, Ferris wheel,
boats, Jeeps, miniature golf and airplanes, or
take a ride on a pony. The more ride tickets you
purchase, the more you save, and you can use
any leftovers on a subsequent visit.
After this itinerary, you and your family are
guaranteed a good night’s sleep, and you’ll have
places you’ll probably want to revisit!
—Nicole Basham
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K r is t i n shaw
W
hen we planned our move to Austin from
Atlanta, the only thing we knew is that we
wanted to live on the far west side of town because we
fell in love with the views of the Hill Country. And so
we picked an apartment sight unseen in Westlake, and
we haven’t left the area since.
So where should you hang out with your family if
you’re in this area? If you’re in the southwest part of it
(near Bee Caves Rd. and Loop 360, also called Capital of
Texas Highway), you might start with the fantastic Hill
Country Galleria. There are plenty of places for kids to
run and play, and there’s something for every season:
splash parks in the summer and “snow days” (with manmade snow) in the winter. (Since Austinites joke that
there are really only two seasons here, that pretty much
covers it.)
Begin the day with a walk around the Galleria,
stopping at the new candy mecca, The Candy Jar, to
ogle its contents, including gourmet chocolates from
local chocolatier Maggie Louise Confections. If you’re
there on a Sunday, don’t pass up an opportunity for
brunch at The
Iron Cactus.
There is no
way you can
walk out of
there without
a happy, round
tummy. And
then you
can walk it
off windowshopping at
the rest of the
outdoor mall.
If it’s not
a Sunday,
consider
driving out
Highway 71
past the galleria
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freefuninaustin.com
to Spicewood-based
It’s All Good Barbecue.
With a pistol-shaped
smoker in the front,
you can’t miss it, and
you won’t want to. The
brisket is incredible, and
the short ribs are a gift
from heaven.
Got more time?
Head north on 360 and
park at the Pennybacker
Bridge (often called
the “360 Bridge” by
locals), which spans Lake
Austin. If you have older
kids, climb up the trail
to the top of the rocks
and look out over Austin
from above the bridge. It’s
dizzying and fantastic.
Keep going north on 360
and head up to the Arboretum
area, just past Great Hills Trail. The
Arboretum has a hidden little park, found
by walking past the fountain just beyond Amy’s Ice
Creams, with iconic Texan marble cows standing
guard—kids love climbing all over them. The grassy
area is perfect for picnics and footraces, and the small
boardwalk area has expansive views of Austin. Don’t
miss Amy’s Ice Creams, of course, a homegrown
company with some of the best ice cream in the country.
While you’re there, head to the duck pond with some
ice cream cone scraps and feel the locals. There is
a beautiful path around the Arboretum, and in nice
weather (which is well over 300 days a year in Austin), it’s
an enjoyable walk.
If you like to cook, bake, grill or, heck, EAT, step
into nearby stores Con’ Olio and Savory Spice Shop
to check out their wares. Con’ Olio carries an amazing
selection of olive oils and balsamic vinegars from all
over the world, which you can sample with the tiny cups
provided. Kids love to watch the staff fill the bottles from large silver vats. Hop
next door to Savory Spice Shop, and everyone can inhale the scents of hundreds
of spices and rubs while the knowledgeable staff answers your questions.
When you’re ready to wrap up for the day, the choices for dinner are endless
in this area. But if you want something local AND delicious, there’s nothing
better than Z’Tejas. Although they have restaurants in four states now, the
original was born in Austin in 1989. The Arborteum-area Z’Tejas has a gorgeous
patio, plenty of room and wonderful food. The hot skillet of cornbread brought
to your table is worth the stop.
Kristin Shaw is a freelancer by day, writer by night, full-time
wife of an Austin native, and mother of a mini-Texan. Her
favorite things are family, ‘80s hair bands, classic cars,
sports, Italy and dessert—not necessarily in that order. She’s
proud to be a co-producer of the 2014 Listen to Your Mother
show in Austin. You can reach her via Twitter
(@AustinKVS); her blog, Two Cannoli; or on The Huffington
Post, where she is a featured blogger.
16
nicole ba sham
T
here are a few attractions farther north we just
couldn’t keep to ourselves. Brushy Creek Lake
Park is a beautiful slice of Cedar Park. In addition to
large playgrounds, ample pavilions, nicely maintained
trails and a lake stocked with fish, the park is the site
for a popular splash pad. Unlike other splash pads, the
Brushy Creek Splash Pad is fenced in, which is helpful
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if you have wanderers. If you are up for
a walk or bike ride, the hike and bike
trail connects to Champion Park with a
huge, shaded sand pit with dino bones
you can unearth nearby.
The Quarry Splash Pad in Leander
is unlike any you have visited before.
As the name suggests, the splash pad
was built on the site of a former quarry.
Compared to many splash pads at local
parks, the Quarry Splash Pad is huge, with
a large sand pit, a water slide, kid-sized
climbing walls, a waterfall and water cannons.
There are a few covered pavilions or you can lay
out your gear on the Astroturf. Admission is $2 per
person. Be sure to bring cash for the automated pay
stations.
Another must-do park in the area is Play for
All Abilities in Round Rock, which was designed for
children with special needs. The large park is entirely
fenced in, and the playscapes have adaptations to
allow all kids to enjoy the amenities. Preschoolers
will love the Brushy Creek Village, complete with a
pretend library, school, grocery store, fire station and
more. Very close by is the Dell Diamond, the home of
the minor league Round Rock Express baseball team.
The Diamond offers lawn seating and Friday night
fireworks, and lots of game day promotions. Just up
the road from the Dell Diamond is the Rock’N River
Family Aquatic Center. Rock’N River is a crowd pleaser
and is much easier on the gas tank and the wallet
than some of the larger water parks in the area. Most
kids’ favorite part is the lazy river, although the more
intrepid take a ride on one of the two water slides.
The younger ones can wade in the water playground,
and shaded tables are perfect for taking a break or
enjoying a picnic.
For a low-key, shady park, head to Pflugerville, east
of North Austin and south of Round Rock. Pfluger Park’s
playscape is shaded by large trees, and there’s also a
gazebo and tiny playhouse. Gilleland Creek, a shallow
creek great for wading, is just a few paces away from the
playscape. With a low bridge across it, toddlers to preteens
alike will enjoy playing “Pooh sticks” (throw a stick in
the upstream side, run across and watch it come out the
downstream side).
Looking to end your vacation with a big splash? If
there’s one splurge to be made, this water park is it. Near
the 130 Toll Road in Pflugerville, the family water park
Hawaiian Falls Pflugerville features a football field-sized
wavepool, a 10,000 square-foot children’s activity pool,
a 1,000-foot-long river, and multi-slide towers featuring
speed slides, tube slides and a six-lane mat racer slide.
The year-round Adventure Park features multi-level ropes
courses, adventure trail climbing nets, a 60-foot high
climbing and rappelling wall, a six-story free fall attraction
and 500-foot long zip lines.
—Nicole Basham
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