Sometimes you just want to run free, with unstructured playtime, and let the kids burn off energy the old-fashioned way. When you’re craving the un-planned, check out this list of Where to Play in Wide Open Spaces in Austin.
— Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
4801 La Crosse Ave
Visit the arboretum at the wildflower center to swing under the big trees or go on a nature walk as you spot seasonal wildflowers! The Family Garden also includes many opportunities for creative play with natural materials including giant birds’ nests made of grape vines for kids to climb in, a grotto with caves and a waterfall, a maze made of native shrubs, and more. Reservations are encouraged, and you can reserve your spot here.
— Zilker Park
2100 Barton Springs Road
Head to the sprawling space by the giant rocks and spread out to fly kites, throw a Frisbee, play with cute dogs, or have a picnic with sweeping city views in the background. Zilker is a classic choice for a great day out with the kids and you can check out our 100 Things to Do in Zilker Park here. For a list of local toy stores and where to buy a kite in Austin before you head to Zilker, check here.
Just next to Laguna Gloria, you’ll find Mayfield Park and Preserve. This often tops the list of best parks in Austin with its picturesque gardens, cottages, ponds, and exotic peacocks. But behind the gardens are short hiking trails perfect for exploring with small children. Park hours are 5 am – 10 pm.
— Barton Creek Greenbelt
3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a favorite for many Austinites and offers more than miles of gorgeous trails for hiking, mountain biking, and even swimming when the water levels are just right. With many access points, you’ll find lots of places to spread out and hike. Even when the Greenbelt is dry, it’s fun to explore. Click here for info about access points, and check out more family-friendly hikes here.
— Texas State Capitol
1100 Congress Ave
The pretty, green, manicured lawn on the grounds of the Capitol has lots of shady trees and offers a great spot to relax and enjoy time outdoors. Kids love running up and down the hills there, too. Check out more info on Visiting the Texas State Capitol With Kids.
— McKinney Falls State Park
5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy
If you want to head just outside the outskirts of town, you can head over to McKinney Falls State Park. It’s a great place for hiking, camping and simply catching a break from the city. The entrance fee is $6 for adults, and children under 12 are free. The park is open from 8 am – 10 pm. You can make reservations for day passes and camping here.
A favorite destination in South Austin, Circle C Metro Park has something for everyone — soccer fields, sand volleyball courts, disc golf, picnic tables, miles of trails, huge oak trees, and plenty of space to spread out and play.
— Old Settler’s Park
3300 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock
Head north to Round Rock’s crown jewel, the amazing 645-acre Old Settler’s Park. This expansive park is a wonderful recreational and sports destination for families and has several trails as well as Bright Lake where you can fish, or choose from the vast open spaces for playtime, picnics, and games.
— Laguna Gloria
3809 W 35th St
Laguna Gloria boasts a fourteen-acre campus on the shores of Lake Austin, with lush grounds that will make you feel like you’ve been whisked away to Tuscany. You’ll enjoy water views and gorgeous sculptures and gardens at this home to the Contemporary Austin Museum and Art School. Grab your tickets and more info here.
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