Family-Friendly Fun: The Ultimate 3-Day Austin Adventure!

Discover endless family fun in Austin, the vibrant heart of Texas!

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Austin, United States offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Explore the beautiful Zilker Park with its playgrounds, hiking trails, and a refreshing Barton Springs Pool, perfect for hot summer days. Don't miss the vibrant South Congress Avenue, lined with eclectic shops and restaurants, where you can enjoy live music and delicious food, immersing the whole family in the unique Austin atmosphere.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Explore Austin's Eclectic Charm

  • Stay at the colorful and quirky Hotel San José, nestled in the vibrant South Congress neighborhood.
  • Begin your day with a hearty Tex-Mex breakfast at the legendary Juan in a Million, where the portions match the friendly smiles.
  • Stroll down South Congress Avenue, lined with quirky shops, vintage boutiques, and food trucks offering everything from gourmet grilled cheese to decadent cupcakes.
  • Visit the State Capitol and be in awe of its stunning architecture and panoramic views from the observation deck.
  • Check out the unique art installations at the HOPE Outdoor Gallery, where colorful graffiti covers the walls and creativity is celebrated.
  • End your day at Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool that is perfect for a refreshing swim or lounging on the lush grassy hillside.
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures and Live Music

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Magnolia Cafe, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering pancakes and quirky murals.
  • Spend the morning exploring Zilker Park, where you can rent kayaks or paddleboards and enjoy breathtaking views of the downtown skyline on Lady Bird Lake.
  • Take a guided tour of the iconic "Greetings from Austin" mural and snap a picture to capture the memory of your visit.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch at Hamilton Pool Preserve, a natural swimming hole surrounded by limestone cliffs and a tranquil waterfall.
  • In the evening, head to South Congress Avenue for some live music at the legendary Continental Club or the hipster haven, Hotel Vegas.
  • Indulge in a late-night snack at Casino El Camino, known for its mouthwatering burgers with bold flavors that will leave you craving more.
Day 3

Foodie Paradise and Bat Watching

  • Start your day with a scrumptious brunch at Elizabeth Street Café, a charming French-Vietnamese eatery where croissants and pho collide in delicious harmony.
  • Explore the trendy East Austin neighborhood and discover culinary gems like Franklin Barbecue, where waiting in line is part of the experience for melt-in-your-mouth brisket.
  • Take a stroll along Lady Bird Lake and witness the awe-inspiring sight of thousands of bats emerging from the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset.
  • Head to Rainey Street for dinner and experience the unique ambiance of converted bungalows turned into trendy bars and food trucks offering a variety of flavors.
  • Treat yourself to dessert at Lick Honest Ice Creams, where innovative flavors like Caramel Salt Lick and Dark Chocolate, Olive Oil & Sage will tantalize your taste buds.
  • End your trip with a nightcap at The Driskill Bar, a historic hotel bar known for its elegant ambience and craft cocktails, the perfect way to toast to your unforgettable Austin adventure.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Austin by plane is to fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, which is located just 5 miles outside of the city. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United all fly into this airport from various cities across the United States.

Car

Driving to Austin is a popular option, especially if you are coming from within Texas or a neighboring state. Major highways such as I-35 and US-183 connect to Austin, and there are several car rental agencies at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Austin. The closest Amtrak station is in San Marcos, about 30 miles south of Austin. From there, you would need to take a bus or taxi to reach Austin.

Boat

Since Austin is located in the center of Texas, there are no direct boat routes to the city. However, there are several nearby lakes and rivers that you can explore by boat, including Lake Travis and the Colorado River.

Bus

Taking a bus is a great option for getting to Austin from other major Texas cities such as Houston or Dallas. Greyhound and Megabus both operate in Austin, with a station located in the heart of downtown.

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