5 Things to Do This Summer with Toddlers in Austin, TX
Can you believe summer’s already in full swing? For me, summer always brings a more laid-back rhythm—staying up later, lazy pool days, and way too much ice cream (no regrets). And if you’re in Austin, you know the drill: the heat is no joke. I always say, summer in Texas is like winter in the Northeast—unless you’re near water, outdoor time is pretty limited.
This year, we’ve got two busy toddlers to keep cool, entertained, and (fingers crossed) making some of those magical summer memories I grew up with. Since our vacations are planned for later in the season, we’ve been on the hunt for fresh, fun ways to enjoy Austin in the meantime.
Aside from our weekend trips to the pool, I’ve rounded up a few local spots and activities that have been a hit with our littles. If you’re an Austin local or planning a visit soon, maybe some of these will come in handy!
1. Dinos In The Wild at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
🦖 Let your tiny explorer roam with dinosaurs. 💡 Tip: Arrive early, wear hats, and cool off afterward with frozen lemonade from the café.
A few weeks back, we checked out the Dinos in the Wild exhibit at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center—and wow, it was a hit with our 3-year-old! The life-size animatronic dinosaurs are spread out across the gardens, which was perfect because it gave him room to run around and explore everything at his own pace.
Beyond the dinos, the center has a whole lineup of fun: a sandbox for digging up “fossils,” a playground, a grotto with caves, an open-air library, and a water play area. It was our toddlers’ first time there, so everything felt like an adventure. Admission to the dinosaur exhibit is included with regular entry, which is a nice bonus.
If visiting again, I would get there early! It heats up fast, so pack hats, sunscreen, and lots of water. Definitely strategically plan for time at the creek and water activities to help cool everyone down. We capped off our visit with popsicles and frozen lemonade at the café on-site—arguably my toddler’s favorite part. This exhibit runs through August 17th, so there’s still time to check it out.
2. Thinkery Children’s Museum
🧪An air-conditioned dreamland of STEM play and imagination. 💡 Tip: Visit during Baby Bloomers for a peaceful toddler-only window.
A total must for us every summer. My kids absolutely adore the Thinkery—and honestly, so do I. There’s something for every age, and we could stay for hours (and sometimes do). The Currents exhibit is basically one giant water table, and the pretend Farmer’s Market is a huge favorite. My 3-year-old loves collecting eggs from the coop and “cooking” with the veggies, while my 1-year-old would happily play at the oversized train table all day.
Best of all, it’s an indoor spot with air-conditioning, but they also have a shaded outdoor playground if you arrive before the heat gets wild. If you’re visiting with toddlers, I highly recommend going during their Baby Bloomers hours (Fridays & Saturdays, 8–10 a.m.), when the whole space is reserved for little ones under 36 months. It’s calm, age-appropriate, and not too crowded.
We usually hit up Baby Bloomers, stick around for regular hours, then grab lunch nearby in Mueller—it’s such a great area with tons of restaurants. Perfect combo: play, explore, eat, and head home for naps.
3. Ski Shores Cafe
🛶 Food, views, frozen drinks—and popsicles to seal the deal. 💡 Tip: Head there early for a lakefront table and maximum chill.
Nothing screams “summer” like a trip to Ski Shores. This lakeside spot has been an Austin favorite since 1954, and we totally get why. The food hits the spot, the frozen drinks are next-level, and the view of Lake Austin with all the boats and ducks? Instant entertainment for the kids.
They also have a small playground with turf, which gave my husband and me a rare chance to eat while the kids played nearby. Oh, and my toddler still talks about the popsicles. We usually go for lunch or early dinner to beat the crowd since they don’t take reservations.
4. Pins Mechanical Company
🎳 Bowling + foosball + cocktails = fun for all ages. 💡 Tip: It becomes 21+ after 9 p.m., so make it a daytime adventure.
When it’s too hot to function outside, Pins Mechanical in the St. Elmo Art District is our go-to indoor escape. We originally came for a toddler birthday party, and it was way more fun than I expected. Duckpin bowling, pinball machines, foosball, giant Jenga—it’s a blast for toddlers and adults.
There are plenty of TVs and some truly fun cocktails on the menu. We’re already planning to go back during football season so we can catch a game while the little ones stay happily occupied. Heads-up: it becomes 21+ after 9 p.m., so plan accordingly.
5. Pool Day Lakeway Resort and Spa (via ResortPass)
🏖 Staycation goals: a splash pad, poolside snacks, and Lake Travis views. 💡 Tip: Book early! Weekend spots go fast.
Okay, full disclosure—this is something we’ve booked for later this summer, so I can’t give you the full review yet. But we used ResortPass to snag a cabana at Lakeway Resort & Spa, and from what I’ve seen, it’s going to be an amazing staycation.
The resort has Lake Travis views, a swim-up bar, and a dedicated kids’ pool with a splash pad and waterslide. Even though we have our own pool at home, sometimes you just want that extra resort vibe. One tip already? Book early—we reserved almost a month ahead and barely got in.
So there you have it! We’re only a few weeks into summer, but these are some of the local ideas that have already helped us beat the heat and make some sweet memories. Have any toddler-friendly favorites in Austin that I should try next?
Until next time, XXX, McKenzie