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. We are thrilled to spotlight Austin’s surrounding areas, such as the booming city of Leander — one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.!

Our Do512 Family Field Expert Joanna Balisacan, creator of Joyfullydwell.com, shares her top 5 favorite things about family life in Leander:

— Lakewood Park
Lakewood Park is a newly constructed outdoor area offering multiple amenities the entire family can enjoy. With their modern play structure, splash-pad, ping pong and foosball tables as well as a skate park and walking trail around the lake, there’s something for everyone to enjoy some fun in the sun!

Lakewood Park has so much to offer! Photo by Joanna Balisacan

— Robin Bledsoe Park
Robin Bledsoe Park has a good play structure with grass areas surrounding to run around and play. It also has a fun little splash pad to enjoy during the warmer months of the year. The park also offers the Leander area a pool where the family can swim and take part in traditions such as the annual Polar Bear Plunge. Make a splash as a family while making lasting memories!

Splash and play in Robin Bledsoe Park! Photo by Joanna Balisacan

— Bahama Buck’s
We love to stop at Bahama Buck’s after some fun outdoors. They have delicious treats to cool down on hot days. The kids love to build their own Sno with fun toppings.

Tropical treats! Photo by Joanna Balisacan

— Casa Costa Bake Shop
Casa Costa Bake Shop is a family-owned and operated bakery that offers Portuguese-inspired as well as Brazilian-inspired food using the best ingredients available. The extensive options of treats are always scratch-made with love. They also have a wonderful selection of coffees and teas. We love to grab some treats and sit outside at their picnic tables and play cards or just share some laughs.

Yum! Photo by Joanna Balisacan

Leander Kite Festival
Every Spring, Leander Parks and Recreation hosts the city’s annual Kite Festival at Devine Lake Park. There are multiple activities for the entire family, including kite events, food and craft vendors, and lots of great fun! Admission to the festival is free. Click here for more info to come about this year’s kite fest.

Let’s go fly a kite! Joanna Balisacan


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.