Kids are off school, the Texas sun starts warming up just right, and the urge to escape the daily routine has started kicking in. With spring break just around the corner, it’s time to start browsing the internet for the finest offerings of the great state of Texas this season. But let’s be real—when traveling with your whole clan, rooting out for destinations that entertain everyone in the family can feel like an impossible puzzle.
The little ones want non-stop action, the teens and older kids crave something cool (and Instagram-worthy), while the grown-ups yearn for some slow-paced spring fun! Does the struggle sound familiar? Not anymore. Thanks to its outdoor escapes, interactive museums, splash-worthy adventures, and seasonal events, Austin is all set to make your spring break unforgettable for the whole crew.
Let’s explore the best Spring Break Destinations for Families in Austin this spring break!
Thrilling Outdoor Adventures for the Whole Family
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Spring in Texas brings wildflowers into full bloom, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is the best place to experience this natural beauty. Spring offers special programs like family-friendly birding walks (March 8, April 12, May 17, 2025) and Family Yoga (March 16, 2025), along with interactive exhibits, scenic trails, and activities that teach kids about native plants and conservation. With plenty of photo opportunities and educational fun, spring is the ideal time to visit this nature oasis.
Zilker Botanical Garden
Located just south of downtown Austin, Zilker Botanical Garden offers a lush oasis with themed gardens like the Hartman Prehistoric Garden and the tranquil Japanese Garden. Adults can enjoy self-guided tours through heritage live oaks and koi-filled ponds, while kids can join in scavenger hunts and spring break activities. Don’t miss Dino Days (Feb 22–Mar 22, 2025) at the Hartman Prehistoric Garden, featuring interactive fossil presentations, family-friendly activities, and a lively Children and Pet Parade. Plus, take advantage of free days like March 12, 2025. Check the events calendar for more spring happenings!
Mount Bonnell
Take the short hike up Mount Bonnell for a breathtaking panoramic view of Austin from a vantage point. This iconic spot offers families a scenic escape with photo-worthy vistas of Lake Austin and the surrounding area of Texas Hill Country. With mild springtime temperatures, this 102-step ascent becomes an invigorating adventure for families looking for outdoor activities. Upon reaching the summit, take a moment to relish the view from the deck and pavilion, featuring picnic tables—perfect for a family picnic or creating unforgettable memories against the backdrop of a stunning Austin sunset.
Lake Travis Zipline Adventures
Looking for an adrenaline rush? Lake Travis Zipline Adventures offers Texas’ longest and fastest ziplines, ranging from 250 to 2800 feet, with stunning views of Lake Travis. Perfect for spring break, enjoy a 3-hour guided tour that includes a boat cruise, a hike through Austin Hill Country, and 5 thrilling ziplines. For extra excitement, don’t miss the Full Moon Ziplining Night Flight (March 15 & 16, April 11 & 12, 2025), where families can zipline under the stars. Picnic, swim, and play on a private lakefront property for the ultimate spring break adventure!
Barton Springs Pool
A dip in the Barton Springs Pool is a must during spring break in Austin Texas! The natural, spring-fed pool stays a refreshing 68 degrees year-round, making it the perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring. Thanks to a depth ranging from 0’ to 18′, it’s ideal for young children to splash around while parents lounge lazily on the surrounding grass. Next to the pool and bathhouse lies Splash!, an engaging exhibit that invites visitors to explore the rich history and fascinating biology of Barton Springs and the vital Edwards Aquifer, which feeds it.
Please note that the pool is temporarily closed during its annual spring cleaning, so be sure to check the website for updates before planning your visit.
Interactive Exhibits and Tours
Texas State Capitol
History comes to life at the Texas State Capitol, where families can take free guided tours and learn about Texas government and history. The Capitol grounds are perfect for a spring picnic with a view of this historic landmark. With its stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds, this iconic site provides an unforgettable backdrop for a fun, family-friendly activity with a history lesson. Self-guided and group tours unveil inspiring insights into the state’s government and rich past as you admire the breathtaking granite capitol building. Senate and House Chambers, the Supreme Court, the Governor’s office, and the Capitol’s impressive art collection.
Thinkery Austin
For hands-on learning and fun, The Thinkery is Austin’s favorite center for exploring “why” and “how.” Founded in 1983 as a nonprofit, it offers exhibits and programs focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). The museum’s vision is to make science enjoyable for families, especially young explorers. With interactive STEAM exhibits focusing on mental and physical activities, engaging programs, and creative play areas, kids can let their imaginations run wild. Special spring break workshops and events make it even more exciting.
Bullock Texas State History Museum
Uncover the story of Texas at the Bullock Museum, where families can explore three floors of interactive exhibits, watch an IMAX film, and learn about the state’s unique history. Spring break often brings special programming, including live demonstrations and themed activities for kids. This season, Spring Break: Trains at the Bullock (March 14 to 17, 2025), will be the highlight of the museum’s spring break events featuring miniature locomotives by Tinplate Trackers of Austin and the Austin Model Railway Society. Model train displays and demonstrations are free with museum admission. Family programs offer engaging activities designed to foster conversations and support development for young Texans and their caregivers.
Fun-Filled Family Entertainment
iFly Indoor Skydiving
For a unique thrill, try iFly Indoor Skydiving, where kids and adults can experience the sensation of free-fall skydiving in a safe, controlled environment. iFLY’s cutting-edge wind tunnels are crafted to ensure a secure flight experience for flyers of all ages. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, individuals of all shapes, sizes, and abilities can take to the skies and experience the thrill of their lives. You don’t have to be an athlete or in perfect shape, as the world-class instructors who excel at the center are dedicated to making flying enjoyable for everyone who is courageous enough to glide in the air.
South by Southwest (SXSW) Festival
While ATX SXSW (March 7 to 15, 2025) is known for music, film, and tech, it also offers family-friendly events, including live music performances, interactive art installations, and creative workshops. Or maybe getting an autograph or snapping an Instagram moment with your favorite celebrity.
Rodeo Austin
Spring break in Austin isn’t complete without a visit to Rodeo Austin (March 14 to 29, 2025). Families can enjoy rodeo competitions, livestock shows, bull riding, mutton bustin’, a petting zoo, carnival rides, live music, and delicious Texas fair food. It’s a must-visit for a taste of authentic Texas culture.
Family-Friendly Food Adventures
Hula Hut
After a day of spring adventure, there can’t be a better place to unwind with your family than Hula Hut, a traditional Tex-Mex lakeside restaurant with a tropical vibe and a Hawaiian twist. Enjoy Big Island Sandwiches, Pipeline Enchiladas, and tropical cocktails with a Polynesian twist while surrounded by bamboo walls, ample shade, and a kaleidoscope of colored lights.
Afternoon Tea at The Driskill
Treat your family to a memorable afternoon at The Driskill Hotel with their celebrated Afternoon Tea tradition. Perfect for special occasions or a casual get-together, this delightful experience features three courses of classic French pastries, petit fours, and delicate finger sandwiches. Enjoy premium loose-leaf teas, sparkling wine, and the cozy ambiance of this hotel. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy quality time with your loved ones in the elegant, historic setting of one of Austin’s most iconic hotels. Seating begins at 4:00 p.m. Don’t miss this special family treat!
Kemuri Tatsu-Ya
Kemuri Tatsu-Ya offers a unique dining experience in Austin that blends traditional Japanese flavors with bold Texas BBQ influences. This family-friendly spot serves up mouth-watering dishes, from smoky yakitori skewers to rich ramen, with a fun and vibrant atmosphere that welcomes all ages. With innovative cocktails, delicious small plates, and a menu that highlights the best of both cultures, Kemuri Tatsu-Ya is perfect for families looking to explore exciting new flavors in the heart of Austin.
Other Spring Break Destinations for Families Around Austin
McKinney Falls State Park
A nature lover’s paradise, McKinney Falls State Park offers hiking, biking, and fishing, along with beautiful waterfalls and picnic areas. Spring is an ideal time to explore the trails and enjoy the fresh air. The Onion Creek Hike, a family-friendly 3-mile loop hiking, leads you past breathtaking waterfalls, tranquil pools, and timeless limestone formations. Be sure to secure your day passes in advance, as they sell out quickly during weekends and holidays.
Pedernales Falls State Park
Located a short drive from Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park features cascading waterfalls, swimming areas, and hiking trails. As water levels peak during this season, you’re treated to breathtaking views of water tumbling over limestone rocks, making it a beautiful spot for springtime family fun. Wander along the picturesque trails, take a refreshing dip in the river, and keep your eyes peeled for various bird species soaring above. For thrill-seekers, mountain biking through the winding paths will lead you to incredible limestone formations and scenic lookouts. Don’t forget to visit the bird blind and butterfly garden to connect with local wildlife and lush plant life. If you’re in the mood for an overnight adventure, you can choose between campsites with modern comforts or venture out to a primitive site for a more rugged experience.
Exotic Resort Zoo
Drive-thru zoos are becoming increasingly popular, and spring’s beautiful weather offers a perfect opportunity to tour one. Just a short drive from Austin, the 137-acre Exotic Resort Zoo in Johnson City provides an unforgettable experience where families can get up close to over 700 animals representing 45+ species, including zebras, kangaroos, camels, and more. You can choose from multiple tour options: a Drive-Through Tour, a Guided Tour, or a Private Tour to tailor your visit to your preferences. Although you can tour the park in your own vehicle, I highly recommend taking their fun, family-friendly tractor ride through the park! If you are still interested in the Drive-Thru option, be sure to secure your tickets online to reserve your spot. Once drive-through tickets are sold out, entry is not guaranteed.
Hill Country Science Mill
For an inspiring and interactive experience, visit the Hill Country Science Mill in Johnson City. This hands-on science museum ignites curiosity and creativity in children through innovative technology-based exhibits, games, and programs that enhance their understanding and appreciation of science in everyday life. This year’s Spring into STEAM (March 8 to 23, 2025) beautifully fuses science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM), offering exciting activities like creating a Thaumatrope, coding with markers, flipper bots, and many more engaging hands-on experiences.
Spring Break Destinations for Families in Austin: FAQs
Where is the best place to go for spring break with kids in Austin?
The best place to go for spring break with kids in Austin depends on your family’s interests! For outdoor fun, Zilker Botanical Garden and Barton Springs Pool offer beautiful scenery and refreshing swims. If your kids love animals, the Exotic Resort Zoo is a must-visit. Check out Thinkery Austin or the Bullock Texas State History Museum for hands-on learning. For adventure seekers, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures and iFly Indoor Skydiving provide thrilling experiences.
What is the famous Austin Spring?
The most famous spring in Austin is Barton Springs Pool, a natural, spring-fed swimming pool located in Zilker Park. It maintains a refreshing temperature of around 68°F year-round and is a popular spot for locals and visitors to cool off, especially during spring break.
Spring Break Destinations for Families in Austin: Final Thoughts
When it comes to spring break, Austin truly delivers. Think of it as a diverse combination of outdoor adventures, hands-on learning, history lessons in the most engaging ways possible, or simply lazily soaking up the Texas sunshine. From splashing around in Barton Springs to exploring the wonders of the Thinkery, every moment here feels like an opportunity to create lasting memories. So, whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city through fresh eyes, Austin’s Spring break adventures will keep your whole crew entertained.
Last Updated 4 minutes ago by Jessica Serna | Published: March 9, 2025
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