We love hearing from our Teen Contributing Editors about what they love to do in Austin. And as a parent, knowing your older kids are entertained, safe, and having a blast with their friends? That’s the good stuff. Check out Summer Activities for Teens and share with your parent-friends!
About Guest Editor Eden Kime
As a teen myself, I am constantly looking for ways to explore Austin during the summer. I am a Sophomore at Acton Academy West and I enjoy spending time outside with family and friends and trying new things!
Thrifting
Thrifting is a great way to pass time with your friends! Shop for new summer clothes at Pavement, Buffalo Exchange, and Goodwill. It’s a great, affordable way to stay in the AC while expanding your wardrobe. You can also check here for our roundup of where to shop locally for kids’ clothes.
Barton Springs Pool
On the grounds of Zilker Park, located downtown, Barton Springs is the perfect place to cool off this summer. With an average water temp of 68-70 degrees, Barton Springs is perfect for year-round swimming, and lounging on the banks of the pool with a blanket. The entry fee is just $3 for teens living in city limits. If you are visiting Austin, the cost is 5$. Also, check out more great free and low-cost pools in Austin here.
Picnic at Zilker or Pease Park
A picnic is a great way to spend time outdoors with your family or friends. Zilker Park is perfect for outdoor activities with its giant fields and sand volleyball courts. We suggest going earlier in the morning to avoid the extreme heat that Texas Summer brings.
If you’re looking for a more shaded area, we recommend Pease Park. It has amazing trails to explore, a basketball court, open fields, a playground, and a massive treehouse.
Also, check out:
- 100 Things to Do at Zilker Park
- Best Picnic Spots in the Austin Area
- Where to Play in Wide Open Spaces
Butler Pitch and Putt
Butler Pitch and Putt offers stress-free golf along with food and fun! The 9-hole course consists of Par-3, with bar food and (non-alcoholic) drinks. The typical time to complete the course is just under two hours, and you can check their hours and fees here. For kids under 18, it’s just $6 Monday through Thursday and $11 on weekends.
Paddleboarding at TRC
Paddleboarding on Lake Austin is a great way to cool off in the summer heat. Texas Rowing Center or TRC is located on the downtown trail. For $25 an hour or $55 per day, you can rent a Paddleboard (SUP) and explore Lake Austin. TRC also offers canoeing, kayaking, and rowing. Also, check out more places to rent canoes, SUPs, and kayaks here.
Mueller Farmers’ Market
Located in Mary Elizabeth Branch Park, Mueller Farmers’ Market has been a staple in Austin for four years. The Farmers’ Market is every Sunday from 10 am – 2 pm. Vendors at the Market offer goods like fresh pasta, chai concentrate, lemonade, fresh produce and fish, NY-style bagels, and so much more. It’s a great place to spend time walking around with family and friends.
Walk South Congress | Guadalupe | Domain | Galleria | Barton Creek Square
Austin is such a walkable city, and some Austinite favorites include The Domain, The Galleria, South Congress, Guadalupe Street, and Barton Creek Square. Each location is flooded with restaurants and stores to explore.
Swim Lake Travis
Along with Lake Austin, Lake Travis is another amazing place to cool off in the summer. It’s a great place to boat, tube, swim, and lounge around. You could also check out the longest and fastest zipline in Texas at Lake Travis Zipline Adventures.
Drive-in Movie Theater
Summer nights are best spent watching a movie with friends! Blue Starlite Theater offers a wide selection of movies at its Downtown location. They showcase new films still in theaters along with classics. Check here for our roundup of more Drive-In Movie Theaters near Austin.
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