When friends visit Austin, Lady Bird Lake is usually one of the first places we take them. With miles of trails, easy access to the water, incredible skyline views, and plenty of family friendly activities nearby, it’s a spot that never gets old. Whether you’re looking for an active adventure or a laid back afternoon outdoors, here are some fun ways to explore Lady Bird Lake with kids.
About our contributing author, Reagan Crabb: I’ve lived in Austin my whole life and have enjoyed rowing competitively on Lady Bird Lake for the past four years. I’m a junior at Acton Academy West and hope you’ll enjoy spending time on the lake as much as I do.
Kayaking
Price: typically $15/hour & $35/day
Locations: view this big list of where to rent watercraft
One of the most popular ways to experience Lady Bird Lake is from the water. Kayak rentals are available from several outfitters around the lake, and many offer single, tandem, and even three person kayaks, making it an easy activity for families. Paddle past Austin’s skyline, under the bridges, and alongside turtles, herons, and other local wildlife while seeing the city from a completely different perspective.
Paddle Boarding
Price: typically $20/hour & $45/day
Locations: view this list of where to rent watercraft
Paddle boarding is a fun way to explore Lady Bird Lake while soaking up some of Austin’s best skyline views. Rentals are available all around the lake, and even beginners can usually get the hang of it pretty quickly. It’s a little more challenging than kayaking, but the calm water makes Lady Bird Lake one of the best places in town to give it a try.
Canoeing
Price: typically $25/hour & $55/day
Locations: view this list of where to rent watercraft
For families who want a little more room to spread out, canoeing is a great way to explore Lady Bird Lake. Canoes can comfortably fit two or more people and offer a relaxed way to enjoy the water while taking in views of the Austin skyline, shoreline trails, and local wildlife. Bonus: there’s usually enough room for snacks, water bottles, and any gear you want to bring along for the ride. 😊
Donut Boats
Prices: $100/hour – 2-hour minimum
Location: Capital Cruises – 208 Barton Springs Rd.
Websites: Donut Boat Rentals – Capital Cruises
One of the most unique ways to get out on Lady Bird Lake, donut boats are essentially floating picnic tables that cruise around the lake. Each boat seats up to 10 people and includes a shaded canopy and center table, making them a fun option for birthdays, visiting family, or a leisurely afternoon on the water with friends.
Retro Boats
Price: Starting at $160
Location: Waller Creek Boathouse – 74 Trinity St.
Website: Retro Boat Rentals
For a more leisurely outing, rent a retro boat and cruise around Lady Bird Lake without having to paddle. These private electric boats offer a comfortable way to enjoy the water, take in the skyline, and spend time together while exploring the lake at your own pace. Bonus: they’re pretty photogenic, too.
Swan Pedal Boats
Prices: $18.00/hour – 2 seats & $25/hour – 4 seats
Location: Capital Cruises – 208 Barton Springs Rd.
Websites: Swan Pedal Boats – Capital Cruises
One of the most recognizable sights on Lady Bird Lake, swan pedal boats are a fun option for families looking for a laid back outing on the water. Choose a two or four person boat and pedal your way around the lake while enjoying views of downtown Austin. They’re especially popular for family photos and first time visitors exploring the lake.
Boat Tours & Cruises
Prices: $15/Adult, $10/Child, Get a quote for a private event.
Location: Lone Star Riverboat Cruises & Capital Cruises – 208 Barton Springs Rd.
Websites: Lone Star Riverboat; Capital Cruises
For families who’d rather sit back and enjoy the scenery, a guided boat tour is one of the easiest ways to experience Lady Bird Lake. Public cruises offer a relaxing ride past Austin landmarks and skyline views, while private charters are available for special occasions. It’s a fun way to see the city from the water without having to do any of the paddling yourself.
Rowing Lessons
Price: $200 & up
Locations: Texas Rowing Center – 1541 W Cesar Chavez St; Austin Rowing Club – 74 Trinity St
Websites: Texas Rowing Center; Austin Rowing Club
Want to try something a little different on Lady Bird Lake? Several local organizations offer rowing lessons for beginners, giving participants a chance to learn the basics of this Olympic sport while spending time on the water. Whether you’re interested in a one time experience or joining a competitive program, there are options for a variety of ages and skill levels.
Bat Watching
Price: Free!
Location: Congress Avenue Bridge – Congress Ave. *Mid-March to November*
No list of things to do around Lady Bird Lake would be complete without Austin’s famous bats. On warm evenings from spring through fall, more than a million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset in one of the city’s most iconic spectacles. Watch from the bridge, the nearby trails, or from the water on a bat watching boat tour for an unforgettable Austin experience. 🦇
Click here to learn more about bat season.
Waterside Picnics
Prices: Vary per food truck
Location: The Picnic 1720 Barton Springs Rd.
Website: The Picnic
Need to refuel after a paddle or hike? Grab a bite from one of the food trucks at The Picnic, located just a short walk from Lady Bird Lake. With a variety of local food options and plenty of outdoor seating, it’s an easy spot for a family meal, snack break, or sweet treat before heading back out to explore.
More to Explore:
