Austin suburbs are definitely among some of the greatest places to raise a family! The greater Austin metro area includes some amazing, award-winning small cities and fantastic neighborhoods full of kid-friendly amenities, such as the beautiful Lake Travis city of Lago Vista!
Our Do512 Family Field Expert Joanna Balisacan, creator of Joyfullydwell.com, shares her top favorite things about family life in Lago Vista:
— Arkansas Bend Park
Looking to have some fun on the water? Arkansas Bend Park is a hidden gem for fun on the North side of Lake Travis. Nestled in the hills of Lago Vista, this lakefront park offers two boat ramps, a playground, and campsites to rent. Enjoy a weekend staycation or a day of grilling, swimming and fishing. There is a small fee associated with accessing the park ($5 per adult; free for ages 12 & under). It’s also a good idea to check the park website before arrival for any park updates.
Paddling on Lake Travis; photo by Joanna Balisacan
— Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
The Canyonlands typically holds open houses, offering fun hands-on learning opportunities and a great day out for families. It also offers excellent hiking opportunities, in a number of locations across the refuge lands. The Vista Knoll and Ridgeline Loop Via Cactus Rocks Trail, right off the 1431 in Lago Vista is a 3.1 mile long, moderately trafficked loop trail. It’s a great family trail, offering the chance to see wildlife and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. Also, the Balcones Canyonlands typically holds open houses, offering fun hands-on learning opportunities and a great day out for families. Get more details on the park’s website to help you plan your visit.
Enjoying a little fishing at a special family event. Photo by Joanna Balisacan
— Lago Vista Farmers’ Market
The Lago Vista Farmer’s Market is a wonderful family friendly venue. They offer entertainment and seasonal activities geared towards kids and families. Enjoy some live music, grab some fresh produce and even find some gems and one-of-a-kind items for your home or yourself!
Shopping at the Lago Vista Farmers’ Market; Photo by Joanna Balisacan
— Baker’s Brikset
Baker’s Brisket is a family-owned BBQ food truck in the Lago Vista area. Not only does the pitmaster, John Baker offer amazing BBQ selections and sides, he also gives back to the community often but offering “pay what you can” meal days, especially on holidays.
Photo from the Baker’s Brisket Facebook page
About Our Family Field Expert: Joanna Balisacan
Joanna is a momma of 3 little loves. She enjoys thrifting or “treasure hunting” as her family calls it, being crafty, home decor, gardening and making messes in the kitchen! She also gets a thrill finding great deals when it comes to family fun and shopping. Her family loves the outdoors and hands-on learning opportunities. Joanna uses her platforms on Instagram, Facebook and her blog Joyfullydwell.com to help inspire others to find joy and add some spunk to everyday life.
