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5 Fun and Free Things to do in Austin with Kids

I never expected to make traveling friends through blogging but I’m grateful I have. One of my first friends in the blogging world was Becca from R We There Yet Mom? Her love for travel and Texas is contagious. I’ve learned so much about Texas from her and owe my ignited desire to explore the Lone Star State more to her blog. It is my pleasure to  introduce Becca’s guest post on free things to do in Austin with kids.

I live in the most amazing city – really, I do – I simply have to mention that I live in Austin, Texas and even complete strangers will gush about how great of a city it is. You honestly never hear complaints.  Simply put, Austin has great weather, great food, relaxed attitudes, and so much to do! And a lot of the cool stuff that we have – you know the stuff that makes us original and “weird” is 100% free.  Let me show you some free things to do in Austin with kids.

1. Cathedral of Junk

In a small backyard of a South Austin home, Vince Hannemann created an amazing work of art out of ordinary junk – TVs, bicycles, glass bottles, toys, and more are strategically placed about in the 3-story wonder.  Take your time meandering through the ‘junk”, take a few pictures, and talk to the artist who is on hand.  The Cathedral of Junk is open on the weekends and by appointment on weekdays.  It is absolutely free, but donations are welcome.

      

2. Barton Springs

Where else can you take a dip in March and be perfectly comfortable?  The Springs are always a comfortable 68 degrees allowing for a warm swim in the winter and a refreshing dip in the summer.  Located at Zilker Park near downtown Austin, Barton Springs is the fourth largest natural spring in the state. Because it is so large, it hardly ever feels crowded. Take some time to visit the Austin Science and Nature Center and Dino Dig in Zilker Park while you are there.  Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a ride on the famed Zilker Zepher too (minimal cost).

3. Stroll Down So Co

South Congress Ave is alive with weirdness.  Where else can you find a HUGE costume shop right next to Allens Boots?  Musicians line the corners, ready to play their latest hits.  You can find the perfect weird treat in the funky shops; from chocolate dipped bacon in the Big Top Candy Shop to the perfect vintage necklace from Feathers Boutique. We honestly love to stroll up and down for an afternoon.

4. Austin Murals Tour

Some of the best art in Austin can be found on the sides of buildings.  For free.  Hop in a pedicab and tour all the murals within a 10 block radius of 6th Street.  Get your family’s picture taken in front of the famous “Greetings from Austin” sign.  And give your sweetie a smooch at the “I love you so much” mural.

5. Texas State Capitol

Alright, alright – we do actually have some historical sites to see as well here in the ATX – one of the most prominent being the Texas State Capitol.  Built entirely out of Texas pink granite, it is one of the tallest state capitols in the nation.  You can catch a free tour with a docent, play in the whispering hall, or visit one of the 17 memorials that cover the grounds.  There is also a great museum with lots on hands-on exhibits for children to enjoy.

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Rebecca Darling, momma of 3 sassy Texas kiddos, writes a blog dedicated to family travel at R We There Yet Mom?.  Born & raised in the great state of Texas, this Traveling Mom is very proud of her state.  She enthusiastically welcomes you to visit all the great parks, museums, cities, and events that the Lone Star State has, though honestly, she hasn’t even scratched the surface at all the amazing things there are to do in Texas!  Although she swears she is not crafty, this momma never lacks in creativity and enthusiasm – her ultimate goal is making exceptional memories for her family.  Follow her memory making at R We There Yet Mom?

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This is a part of a series called Five Free Family Friday.  I hope this will grow into a collective guide of free family-friendly attractions of places all over the world.  If you’d like to contribute with the free attractions in your home city, I would love your guest posts

7 thoughts on “5 Fun and Free Things to do in Austin with Kids”

  1. I miss my home in Austin, and Rebecca’s posts always remind me of how great it is. I still haven’t made it to the Cathedral of Junk and need to remedy that. I love all the other spots on the list.

  2. Would love to visit Austin – mostly to hear some music and see it’s famed rolling countryside. Sounds like a great place t visit with kids too.

  3. Great round up. I think we hit all but 1 of those. For those who haven’t visited Austin: JUST GO! It’s a delight!

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