Fun Kids Events This Week In Austin

Welcome to a week filled with exciting events for the whole family in Austin! From one-day wonders and classic favorites to educational experiences, here are our top picks for Monday, May 12th 2025 through Sunday, May 18th 2025.

Monday May 12th

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• Activity: Zilker Park - The Jewel in the Heart of Austin
• Description: Zilker Park offers a variety of amenities for visitors seeking outdoor recreation and cultural experiences. Facilities include three picnic sites and a shelter available for reservations, along with a playscape and a disc golf course for leisure. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy five reservable volleyball courts, while the Zilker Club House caters to events with rental spaces. The park also hosts the Austin Nature and Science Center, providing educational programs for both children and adults. Notable attractions within the park feature the Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool with a pleasant year-round temperature of 68 degrees, and the McBeth Recreation Center. For those with an interest in horticulture, the Zilker Botanical Gardens showcase the Taniguchi Oriental Garden and the Austin Area Garden Center. The park is also home to the Zilker Caretaker's Cottage and the Zilker Hillside Theatre, which presents a range of performances including the renowned Zilker Summer Musical and Shakespeare in the Park.
• Time: Daylight Hours
• Location: Zilker Metropolitan Park in Austin

• Activity: Hill Country Flyer Historic Steam Engine
• Description: The Hill Country Flyer, a popular 66-mile round-trip train journey operated from Cedar Park Depot, is a signature event offered most Saturdays from January to May and September to November. Departing at 9:00am and returning by 3:30pm, passengers enjoy a 2-hour layover in Burnet for self-guided lunch and shopping. With its inaugural journey in 1992, this ride has remained a favorite, inviting guests to confirm details prior to boarding and advising early arrival for a smooth experience. Security checks ensure a safe ride for everyone, with specific protocol against alcohol onboard. For dining, the Trailblazer Grille stands out for lunch with a reservation almost a necessity due to its popularity among passengers. Alternatively, Unshakable Grounds offers lighter options with no reservation required. For those willing to explore further, options like Hacienda El Charro and Warehouse BBQ and Meetery beckon with a short adventure. Guests preferring a quieter meal can enjoy a picnic around the Burnet Courthouse. The summer months see the Hill Country Flyer hiatus, making way for the Bertram Flyer and the festive North Pole Flyer during the Christmas season.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: Austin Steam Train Association Museum in Cedar Park

• Activity: Visit the Austin Zoo!
• Description: Nestled in the scenic hills on the outskirts of Austin, Texas, the Austin Zoo presents a unique blend of conservation, education, and recreation. This sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals from a variety of circumstances, providing a safe haven for both native wildlife and exotic species. With an emphasis on animal welfare, the zoo offers an intimate setting where visitors can learn about the importance of conservation and the role zoos play in protecting endangered species. Through guided tours, educational programs, and interactive exhibits, the Austin Zoo fosters a deep connection between its guests and the natural world. The Austin Zoo's compact yet diverse collection allows for a personal and educational experience, inviting curiosity and encouraging exploration. From majestic lions and playful primates to the tranquil beauty of the reptile house, each exhibit is designed with the utmost care for the animals and the environment. Visitors are not just passive observers but are engaged in a journey of discovery and learning about the intricate connections within ecosystems.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: Austin Zoo in Austin

• Activity: Visit Thinkery - The Austin Childrens Museum
• Description: Founded in 1983 by a group of Austin parents and educators, Thinkery has established itself as a leading nonprofit children's museum dedicated to reimagining the joy of learning. Evolving from the Austin Children's Museum, Thinkery now spans 40,000 square feet of engaging indoor and outdoor learning environments. Its commitment to the Austin community is evident in its continuous growth and provision of innovative educational and cultural opportunities aimed at children's development through play. Over the decades, Thinkery has significantly expanded its reach beyond its Mueller museum walls, promoting STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning experiences that are backed by thorough research. Through the STEAM Learning Institute, Thinkery emphasizes the value of inclusive, play-based learning and its critical role in fostering children's ability to thrive. By conducting inclusive research and offering professional development, Thinkery ensures that its mission touches the lives of an even broader audience within Central Texas and beyond, supporting a thriving future generation.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: Thinkery in Austin

• Activity: Pease District Park: Water, Playground, and more!
• Description: Kingsbury Commons serves as the inviting entrance to Pease Park, offering an array of activities suitable for families and individuals alike. Attendees can revel in the park's interactive water feature, explore the distinctive Treehouse Observation Pod, and engage with the natural play area. Additionally, the venue boasts state-of-the-art playground equipment and a regulation-size high school basketball court, enhancing the recreational experience for all visitors. This meticulously designed park space encourages both leisure and physical activity, making it an ideal destination for community gatherings and outdoor enjoyment. Whether seeking adventure in the treehouse, cooling off by the water feature, or enjoying a game of basketball, Kingsbury Commons provides a comprehensive and enriching park experience.
• Time: Daily
• Location: Pease District Park in Austin

Tuesday May 13th

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• Activity: Thinkery Austin Free Tuesdays and Sundays
• Description: Every Tuesday from 3 pm to 7 pm and Sunday from 3 pm to 5 pm, Thinkery opens its doors to children and families across Central Texas, offering free admission. This initiative allows families the opportunity to explore and engage in interactive learning experiences without any cost, although donations are graciously accepted to support the continuation of this generous offering.
• Time: Tue. 3pm-7pm, Sun. 3pm-5pm
• Location: Thinkery in Austin

• Activity: The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria
• Description: At The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria, visitors experience an oasis of tranquility just five miles from downtown Austin. The estate offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and contemporary art, featuring works from international artists scattered across its serene, wooded pathways. Monumental sculptures and intimate art installations invite contemplation and discovery, making Laguna Gloria a unique cultural haven in the heart of the city. Laguna Gloria is not just a site for art exploration; it also houses the historic Driscoll Villa, a sought-after location for weddings and events, and the Art School at The Contemporary. The Art School offers courses that foster creativity, visual awareness, and skill development across various media, enriching the artistic community in Austin. With its café, shop, and visitor center, Laguna Gloria provides a comprehensive cultural experience.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria in Austin

• Activity: Visit Pease Park Conservancy
• Description: Pease Park, the gem of Austin, showcases breath-taking limestone bluffs and shaded trails, encapsulating the essence of the city through its 84 acres. Managed by the Pease Park Conservancy, the park is a testament to Austin's rich ecological and cultural heritage, aimed at preserving and enhancing this green space for community enjoyment. As the city's first public park, Pease Park offers an escape with play areas and a splash pad at the southern end, while the northern trails provide a serene immersion in nature. The Conservancy's commitment to the park unfolds through dedicated efforts in restoration, maintenance, and fostering sustainable use, reflecting a visionary future for this outdoor oasis. Accessible in the heart of Austin, the park not only serves as a recreational site but also a beacon of the community's shared values and history. To learn more about the transformative work and the team behind Pease Park Conservancy, visit their platform, which elucidates their years of stewardship and forward-looking aspirations for the park.
• Time: Daily
• Location: Pease District Park in Austin

• Activity: Horseback Riding and More at Lone Star Ranch
• Description: Lone Star Ranch, situated minutes from downtown Austin, stands as a premier destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Texas traditions and outdoor adventures. Renowned for its diverse offerings that far exceed mere trail rides, the ranch prides itself on providing a range of activities that cater to both individuals and large groups. Among these activities are archery, fishing, tomahawk and ax throwing, and for those with a penchant for more exhilarating experiences, custom trap shooting sessions. Additionally, Lone Star Ranch offers unique encounters like ranch rodeos, ATV guided tours, and dove hunting, all under the expert guidance of their seasoned adventure guides. For visitors interested in authentic rodeo experiences, the ranch delivers private shows with trick roping and steers. It also arranges unusual entertainment like armadillo racing for larger gatherings. Meanwhile, younger guests can enjoy gentler pursuits such as the farm animal petting zoo and pony rides, ensuring the ranch offers something special for every visitor.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: Lone Star Ranch in Austin

• Activity: Alliance Children's Garden
• Description: The Alliance Children’s Garden, nestled within Michael Butler Park in downtown Austin, spans 2 acres designed to foster group play, learning, and creativity among children. This innovative play venue is carefully crafted to accommodate a variety of recreational and educational experiences, promoting wellness for families and visitors regardless of age or ability. The garden is segmented into four thematic rooms, each mirroring the distinctive culture and environment of Austin, thus providing a unique and inclusive space for children to explore and engage with their surroundings.
• Time: Open Daily
• Location: Alliance Children's Garden in Austin

Wednesday May 14th

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• Activity: Go Biking at Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake
• Description: The Butler Hike and Bike Trail offers a serene outdoor experience in the heart of Austin. Spanning 10 miles, this well-maintained path is suitable for cyclists, runners, and families looking to enjoy a scenic view of the Austin skyline. With ample access points and parking, it's easy for visitors to customize their journey, whether opting for the full loop or a shorter trek. Highlights include opportunities for a refreshing swim in Barton Springs or Deep Eddy Pool, both nourished by natural springs near Lady Bird Lake. Maintaining its allure throughout the year, the trail is dotted with convenient amenities like water fountains, restrooms, and shady spots for rest. It also features attractions such as the Stevie Ray Vaughan statue, the Bat Observation Center for a unique wildlife spectacle, and Zilker Park for outdoor leisure. Pedestrian- and cyclist-only bridges enhance the connectivity and safety of the trail, ensuring a pleasant experience for all. Whether aiming for a full 10-mile exploration or a brief escape amidst nature, the Butler Hike and Bike Trail invites all to enjoy the natural beauty Austin has to offer.
• Time: Open Daily
• Location: Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail in Austin

• Activity: The Naturalist Workshop at Austin Nature and Science Center
• Description: The Naturalist Workshop at the Austin Nature & Science Center offers a hands-on experience unlike any other natural history museum. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to physically engage with an array of natural collections including fur, rocks, bones, plants, insects, and more. Interactive tables and investigation tools enable guests to explore and learn from the items directly. The exhibit's rotating displays ensure that every visit is unique, inviting return trips to discover new collections. Additionally, the center provides field guides and a sightings board to enhance the experience of encountering living organisms around the premises. These resources aim to deepen visitors' understanding and appreciation of the natural world around them, making the Austin Nature & Science Center a continuously enriching environment for exploration and education.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: Austin Nature and Science Center in Austin

• Activity: Austin Nature and Science Center
• Description: Since its establishment in 1960, the Austin Nature & Science Center (ANSC) has been a focal point for nature-based education and recreational activities. Situated on the western edge of Zilker Park, the center is committed to fostering awareness and appreciation for the environment through dynamic, hands-on exhibits and programs. Catering to visitors, educators, and children of all ages, ANSC is a beacon for environmental exploration and learning. The Center boasts an extensive array of programs tailored for different age groups, including preschoolers, kids, families, and adults, covering diverse topics from butterflies to caving. This enriching environment offers a unique platform for participants to engage intimately with the natural world, enhancing their understanding and respect for nature's intricacies.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: Austin Nature and Science Center in Austin

• Activity: Visit Beautiful Zilker Botanical Garden
• Description: Zilker Botanical Garden, located within Zilker Metropolitan Park in downtown Austin, presents a serene oasis amidst the urban landscape. This garden is renowned for its themed areas, such as the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, Hartman Prehistoric Garden, and the enchanting Rose Garden. These areas are seamlessly connected through accessible pathways, making it welcoming to visitors of all ages and abilities. Featuring heritage live oaks, tranquil streams, and ponds teeming with Koi, Zilker Botanical Garden serves as a peaceful haven in the bustling city.
• Time: 9:00am - 5:00pm
• Location: Zilker Botanical Garden in Austin

• Activity: Visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum
• Description: Nestled in Austin, the Bullock Texas State History Museum stands as a portal to the past, offering a sweeping view of Texas history through dynamic, interactive exhibits. Across its three floors, visitors encounter the diverse narratives that shaped Texas, from indigenous histories to modern achievements. The museum's rich collections, coupled with state-of-the-art facilities like the IMAX® Theatre, provide a deep dive into the pivotal events and figures that define the Lone Star State. Dedicated to both preservation and education, the Bullock Museum serves as a vibrant educational hub. It not only showcases Texas's milestones but also celebrates its cultural diversity and resilience, engaging visitors with compelling stories and insights. This sanctuary of history is a haven for enthusiasts, families, and anyone keen on immersing themselves in the compelling tales of Texas. By fostering a deeper understanding of Texas's past, the museum enhances public appreciation for its heritage, contributing significantly to the narrative of American history.
• Time: Monday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Location: Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin

Thursday May 15th

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• Activity: Go Back in Time at Pioneer Farms!
• Description: Pioneer Farms offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Texas history through its expansive grounds featuring seven distinct themed historic areas. Guests can embark on walking tours of an 1841 Tonkawa Encampment, an 1853 Walnut Creek Greenbelt, an 1866 German Emigrant Farm, an 1878 Texian Farm, an 1873 Stage Coach Stop, an 1886 Cotton Planter's Farm, and an 1899 Sprinkle Corner rural village. Each area provides an opportunity to experience different aspects of Texas's diverse past, allowing families to explore and learn together in a beautiful, wooded setting that spans over 90 acres. In addition to the historical sites, the Scarborough Barn offers interactive experiences where visitors can engage with various farm animals, enriching the educational experience. The presence of volunteer interpreters dressed in period costumes enhances the atmosphere, providing insights and narratives that bring the historical context to life. The number of interpreters available may vary, giving each visit a unique quality. Pioneer Farms maintains a family-friendly environment with strict policies against smoking and vaping on the museum grounds, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. The site is open for public visits from Thursday to Sunday, welcoming individuals and families to explore and connect with the rich heritage of Texas.
• Time: 10:00am - 5:00pm
• Location: Pioneer Farms Blacksmith Shop in Austin

• Activity: Austin Duck Adventures
• Description: Austin Duck Adventures presents an unparalleled experience with its amphibious tours through downtown Austin and Lake Austin. Operating in unsinkable, US Coast Guard-inspected Hydra Terra vehicles, this 75-minute journey encompasses historical landmarks including Historic Sixth Street, the State Capitol Building, and the Governor’s Mansion, before making a splash into Lake Austin. Recognized as Austin's premier tour, it advises securing tickets promptly online due to high demand. Tours commence near the Austin Visitors Center, with specific departure details provided in the confirmation FAQ. Additionally, Austin Duck Adventures caters to groups and private events, offering an exclusive opportunity to experience the city's sights in a uniquely engaging manner. For those planning events for groups, information on private lake tours is readily available, ensuring an unforgettable adventure through Austin’s scenic beauty and historical sites.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: Austin Duck Adventures in Austin

• Activity: Barking Armadillo Brewing - Georgetown
• Description: A Texan family-owned brewery focuses on producing quality beer, utilizing carefully chosen ingredients to ensure fresh and flavorful options. In addition to their core selection of brews, they feature rotating guest taps, offer hand-selected wines, and provide non-alcoholic beverages for guests. The brewery frequently hosts a food truck, enhancing the experience for visitors. An updated schedule is available on their website, where patrons can find details about entertainment options and the food truck lineup. The venue also organizes a variety of weekly events, inviting guests to explore and enjoy their offerings.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: Barking Armadillo Brewing in Georgetown

• Activity: The Escape Game - Austin
• Description: The Escape Game in Austin offers an immersive entertainment experience with seven uniquely themed escape rooms that cater to all skill levels. Each room provides a distinctive adventure, promising both challenge and excitement for participants. Praised for having the best escape rooms, an effortless booking process, and swift customer support, The Escape Game Austin stands out as an award-winning destination. Visitors are ensured not just a chance at escaping but also a guarantee of fun, making it a must-visit for those seeking a thrilling group activity or a unique way to spend time in Austin.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: The Escape Game Austin in Austin

• Activity: Teen Space at Austin Public Libraries - Multiple Locations and Times
• Description: Exciting news! Head to the library after school for Teen Space! Play games, munch on snacks, and unwind in a relaxed environment. You won't want to miss this awesome opportunity!
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: Austin Central Library, Austin Public Library in Austin

Friday May 16th

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• Activity: Music in the Yard - Free Friday Concerts in Georgetown
• Description: Every Friday night, The Summit at Rivery Park offers a charming experience where local musicians take the stage in the courtyard, providing live entertainment for the community. Patrons are encouraged to enjoy a meal at one of the Summit's outstanding restaurants before meandering over to the courtyard. There, they can relish the music and engage in friendly games of cornhole, creating a perfect blend of dining and leisure under the stars. This weekly event promises a delightful evening with friends, filled with good food, great tunes, and fun activities in an inviting outdoor setting. Check website to confirm dates!
• Time: 5:30p - 8:30pm
• Location: The Summit at Rivery Park in Georgetown

• Activity: Visit Katherine Fleischer Park
• Description: Katherine Fleischer Park (KF Park), a sprawling 22-acre greenspace situated in the heart of the community, serves as a vibrant hub for recreational pursuits. The park boasts an array of amenities including a community center, historic homestead, swimming pool, expansive playscape with pavilion and playhouse, tennis and basketball courts, sand volleyball court, baseball field, and the notable Chuck Walters Pavilion. A network of concrete and decomposed granite paths offers seamless connectivity to the broader park system and nearby attractions. In addition to its extensive facilities, KF Park acts as a gateway to the Wells Branch neighborhood trails, leading adventurers to the disc golf course, Wells Branch Community Library, and Mills Pond. It stands as an ideal venue for hosting gatherings, allowing children to revel in the play areas, or for the simple joys of kite flying. The park's special events page is a testament to its role as a frequent host for complimentary outdoor activities, reflecting its commitment to fostering community engagement and promoting an active lifestyle.
• Time: Daily
• Location: Katherine Fleischer Park in Austin

• Activity: Joanne Land Playground at Old Settlers Park
• Description: The Joanne Land Playground, situated near the Lakeside Pavilion in Round Rock's Old Settler's Park, offers a delightful setting for families seeking free recreational activities. This playground is designed to engage children with its large climbing towers, which are equipped with enclosed netting for safety and feature a variety of obstacles, slides, and tunnels. In addition to the playground, visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings, including a small pond and numerous walking trails. These elements create a well-rounded outdoor experience for families, encouraging both play and exploration in a scenic park environment.
• Time: Daily
• Location: Joanne Land Playground in Round Rock

• Activity: Circe C Ranch Metro Park and Playground
• Description: Get ready for an amazing playtime experience! Featuring redesigned playsets for 2-5-year-olds and 5-12-year-olds, plus swings, soccer fields, and much more, this shaded play area is a dream come true for kids of all ages!
• Time: Daily
• Location: Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park on Slaughter Creek in Austin

• Activity: Visit Play for All Park in Round Rock
• Description: The Play for All Abilities Park, situated in Round Rock, aims to create an inclusive, secure, and entertaining space for children of all abilities. It focuses on serving over 100,000 children from Williamson County, including an estimated 7,945 children with disabilities, by offering an environment that fosters play and skill development. This expansive, gated facility is designed with diverse play opportunities that promote the advancement of various abilities including gross and fine motor skills, social interaction, and creative exploration. By integrating stimulating activities and exercise options, the park endeavors to support all children in their developmental journey in a fun, engaging way.
• Time: Daily
• Location: Play for All Abilities Park in Round Rock

Saturday May 17th

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• Activity: Visit Barton Creek Farmers Market
• Description: Get ready for an amazing experience at Austin's Original Farmers Market! This multi-award winning market offers an incredible selection of fresh food and unique artisan gifts that you won't want to miss out on!
• Time: Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm
• Location: Barton Creek Farmers Market in Austin

• Activity: Wolf Ranch Farmer's Market in Georgetown
• Description: The Wolf Ranch Town Center in Georgetown hosts a weekly farmers market every Saturday morning, come rain or shine, throughout the year. Established by WRFM Community LLC in Williamson County, Texas, the market serves as a vibrant platform for local farmers and food producers to showcase and sell their products. This initiative not only supports the local economy but also encourages community engagement by providing a consistent and reliable venue for residents to purchase fresh, locally sourced goods.
• Time: 8:30am - 1:00pm
• Location: Ranch Town Center in Georgetown

• Activity: Round Rock Library Pokemon Club Saturdays - FREE!
• Description: Pokémon enthusiasts are invited to a come-and-go gathering at the Library's 1st floor meeting rooms, fostering interaction among fans. Participants can play, trade, engage in discussions, or draw, embracing their shared passion for Pokémon in a community setting. The event accommodates flexible arrivals, allowing attendees to stay for as long as they prefer until 10:30 a.m. This free event, designed for kids and teens, offers a lively environment for young Pokémon fans to connect and enjoy shared activities. Select dates only - see website!
• Time: 9:00am - 10:30am
• Location: Round Rock Public Library - RRPL in Round Rock

• Activity: Paint Pottery at The Art Garage
• Description: We have an incredible selection of pottery pieces for you to choose from at The Art Garage! Come on in and experience the joy of painting your own pottery. It's easy, fun, and perfect for creating lasting memories. Plus, our painted pottery makes a fantastic gift!
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: The Art Garage in Austin

• Activity: SFC Farmers Market Downtown
• Description: Get ready for an incredible experience! Every Saturday morning, a vibrant market takes over Republic Square with a diverse community of locals, students, farmers, and more. Explore delicious food, refreshing drinks, stunning art, and lively music.
• Time: Saturdays 9:00am-1:00pm
• Location: Republic Square in Austin

Sunday May 18th

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• Activity: Gateway Market Days - Farmers and Artisan Market
• Description: Gateway Centers is set to inaugurate Gateway Market Days on Sunday, February 4, 2024, from 10 am to 2 pm, located in the Saks Off 5th parking lot. This vibrant farmers and artisan market will showcase an eclectic mix of vendors, ranging from Adair Vintage & Jewelry, Bonnet Farms, to unique offerings like Brewcado Coffee and Caribreoso Caribbean Spices. Attendees can expect a diverse shopping experience including vintage jewelry, farm-fresh produce, artisan baked goods, handcrafted spices, and more. Additional highlights include specialized vendors like Chakra Therapy Candles and Body, Crunchy Munchie Freeze Dried Candy, and Sap a Ki Rasoi Indian Food, ensuring a wide variety of choices for all interests. With the inclusion of Dream Bakery, Fuse the World, and Monique’s Bake House, the market promises an array of delightful culinary adventures. The event champions local craftsmanship and culinary arts, making it an ideal destination for those seeking quality, local produce, and unique artisan products in a friendly, community-focused setting.
• Time: 10:00am - 2:00pm Sundays
• Location: Saks OFF 5TH in Austin

• Activity: The Cathedral of Junk
• Description: In Austin's suburban landscape, the Cathedral of Junk, a unique creation by Vince Hannemann, occupies a discreet presence in his backyard, veiled from street view, providing a stark contrast to the ostentatiousness typically associated with large-scale artistic endeavors. Unlike its counterparts such as the Forevertron and the Garden of Eden, Hannemann's work integrates seamlessly into the neighborhood, maintaining a low profile despite its considerable intrigue. Hannemann, described by locals as a 'yardist,' embarked on building the Cathedral not for fame but as a personal project of passion, echoing a sense of humility and groundedness. Characterizing it as his 'clubhouse,' he finds joy in the simplicity and creativity of the endeavor, a sentiment strongly resonated by visiting children who instantly recognize its playful allure. This unpretentious approach and the immersive experience it offers underline the unique position of the Cathedral of Junk in Austin’s cultural and artistic landscape.
• Time: View Daily - Call For Tour
• Location: Cathedral of Junk in Austin

• Activity: Hike, Bike, Picnic, And Zipline At Mckinney Roughs Nature Park
• Description: McKinney Rough Nature Park invites thrill-seekers for an unforgettable adventure with a diverse array of activities. The park boasts the unique dual zip line in Texas, UTV rides on extensive multiuse trails, and rafting on the lower Colorado River, among other exciting outdoor recreations. Facilities for special events and group lodging are available, with staff ready to tailor a singular experience for visitors. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a canopy zip line tour by contacting Zip Lost Pines, explore various trails through The Hiking Project, or engage in horseback riding, mountain biking, and picnicking. Additionally, the park encourages exploration and citizen science through iNaturalist and features a dedicated area for bird viewing, making it a comprehensive destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
• Time: Open Daily
• Location: McKinney Roughs Nature Park in Cedar Creek

• Activity: Bastrop River Company: Paddle the Colorado River
• Description: The Bastrop River Company offers a captivating experience along the El Camino Real Paddling Trail with their Short Paddle Trail excursion. This journey is renowned as their most sought-after kayak and canoe trip, celebrated for providing an exceptional outdoor activity in Bastrop. Participants have the opportunity to explore the scenic waterways, making it a highlight for both locals and visitors seeking adventure and a connection with nature.
• Time: Hours vary - see website.
• Location: Bastrop River Company in Bastrop

• Activity: Bike, Hike, Or Camp At Buescher State Park
• Description: Buescher State Park, nestled just east of Austin and a brief journey beyond Bastrop State Park, offers a serene getaway amidst nature's beauty. The park invites visitors to enjoy a variety of activities, from camping, hiking, and biking under the majestic canopy of tall trees to fishing and paddling on the tranquil 30-acre lake. With nearly six miles of trails, adventurers can explore diverse landscapes, including the oak and cedar-lined Winding Woodlands Trail and the Pine Gulch Trail, known for its towering loblolly pines. For those seeking an extended stay, the park provides several lodging options ranging from campsites equipped with electricity or water to primitive walk-in spots, as well as screened shelters and cabins. Mountain biking enthusiasts have access to multiple trails, except for CCC Crossover and Big Tree Trace. Additionally, the scenic Park Road 1C connects Bastrop and Buescher state parks, offering a splendid 12-mile route through the Lost Pines, showcasing areas recovering from past wildfires. Whether for a day trip or a weekend excursion, Buescher State Park is a perfect destination for groups and individuals alike, offering a peaceful retreat into nature.
• Time: 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
• Location: Buescher State Park in Smithville

We hope you find your family adventure in Austin this week. Remember: Finding Fun Shouldn't Be Hard! You can browse all of our Austin activities here.