Austin rocks as a vacation spot for families with teenagers. The city mixes cool outdoor adventures, tasty food, live music, and quirky spots that keep teens entertained. If you are looking for things to do in Austin with teens, you will find plenty of options that match different interests, from thrill-seeking to chill shopping days. This guide covers where to stay, what to eat, top activities, and sample itineraries to make your trip awesome.
Where to Stay in Austin with Teens
Pick the right hotel and your whole trip feels easier. Teens love spots that feel fun, central, and give them some freedom to explore.
The Austin Motel on South Congress stands out as a top choice. This retro spot has bright signs, a kidney-shaped pool, and tons of photo spots that teens adore for Instagram. It sits right in the heart of SoCo, so you can walk to shops, coffee places, and restaurants. No need to drive everywhere.
The motel connects directly to Joann’s Fine Foods, a diner-style restaurant with great patio seating. Grab breakfast or late-night snacks without leaving the property. Rooms feel unique, not cookie-cutter, and the vibe matches Austin’s weird spirit.
Other areas like downtown or near Lady Bird Lake work well too. Stay central to cut down on car time. Teens get cranky stuck in traffic. A walkable location lets everyone split up for a bit and meet back easily. Many hotels offer pools, which become lifesavers on hot Texas afternoons.
Is Austin Worth Visiting with Teenagers?
Yes, absolutely. Even a quick weekend or one-day stop feels worth it. Austin delivers that funky, laid-back energy that teens pick up on fast.
You can pack a loose plan and still have a blast. Hit unique shops on South Congress, grab amazing food, and end with the famous bat watching at dusk. Spring brings bluebonnets everywhere for pretty photos. Summer means swimming in cool springs. Fall and winter open up indoor museums and vintage shopping without the heat.
Weather can change plans, but Austin always has backups. Rainy day? Head to an arcade or immersive art spot. Too hot? Jump in Barton Springs Pool. The city stays flexible and fun no matter what.
Best Places to Eat in Austin with Teens
Food keeps everyone happy, especially hungry teenagers. Austin shines with casual spots that serve huge portions and let teens feel independent.
Breakfast and Donuts
Start the day sweet or savory.
- Jo’s Coffee on South Congress serves legendary lattes like the Pecan Pie or White Sands. Order the migas breakfast sandwich for a filling start.
- The Salty Donut offers wild flavors such as brown butter sea salt, maple bacon, or horchata. Grab a box and eat at nearby Alliance Park with skyline views.
- Gourdough’s Big Fat Donuts brings over-the-top creations. Think deep-fried dough loaded with toppings. Share a few because they are rich.
Quick Snacks and Casual Lunch
Keep energy up between activities.
- Loudmouth Pizza delivers thin-crust pies and amazing burrata. The outdoor area has space for kids to run around.
- Freddo ATX features swing seats and picnic tables. Teens love the giant meatball sandwich.
- Guero’s Taco Bar serves bold tacos and fresh chips. The salsa bar lets everyone customize.
Torchy’s Tacos makes a perfect lunch stop. Start with chips and queso, then try creative tacos on homemade tortillas. The South Congress location fits perfectly into a walking day.
Ice Cream Treats
Cool off with these spots.
- Amy’s Ice Creams scoops fun flavors while staff toss scoops in the air.
- OMG Squee brings kawaii vibes with ube soft serve and mochi waffles.
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams offers unique options like Brambleberry Crisp or Gooey Butter Cake.
BBQ the Smart Way
Skip long tourist lines. Join a small East Austin BBQ tour instead. Visit local gems, taste brisket, ribs, and jalapeño sausage, and chat with pitmasters. Teens love learning the history while eating amazing meat.
Dinner Spots Teens Love
Evening meals should feel relaxed and tasty.
- Loro blends Texas BBQ with Asian flavors. Order smoked brisket with chili gastrique and crunchy corn fritters.
- Bouldin Acres combines food with pickleball courts and open space.
- Joann’s Fine Foods serves comfort classics like enchiladas and spicy queso on the patio.
Thrilling Things to Do in Austin with Teens
Teens crave excitement. Austin delivers plenty of adrenaline-pumping options.
Arcade and Gaming Spots
- Bishop Cidercade Austin – Over 150 retro arcade games plus cider for adults. Open late every day.
- Pinstack – Bowling, rock climbing, bumper cars, and video games under one roof.
- Dave & Buster’s – Classic mix of arcade games, food, and virtual reality.
- Tom Foolerys Adventure Park – Indoor zip lines, ropes courses, laser tag, and huge arcade.
High-Adrenaline Activities
- K1 Speed – Indoor electric go-kart racing with serious speed.
- iFly Indoor Skydiving – Feel free-fall in a safe wind tunnel.
- Lake Travis Zipline Adventures – Soar over the lake on long zip lines.
- QuestATX – Cable wakeboarding with ramps for tricks.
- The Breaking Point Rage Room – Smash stuff safely to let off steam.
- Zero Latency VR – Free-roaming virtual reality missions.
Other Fun Thrills
- Peter Pan Mini Golf – Two whimsical 18-hole courses with giant statues.
- Austin Bouldering Project – Climb walls and hang out in a cool gym space.
- Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park – Ninja courses and sky-high jumps.
- The Escape Room Austin – Team up to solve themed puzzle rooms in 60 minutes.
These spots create stories teens will retell forever. Pick one or two big thrills per day so everyone stays fresh.
Cultural and Creative Things to Do in Austin with Teens
Not every teen wants constant action. Austin offers quieter but still engaging options.
Museums Worth Visiting
- Bullock Texas State History Museum – Interactive exhibits bring Texas stories to life. Free on Thursdays.
- Blanton Museum of Art – Huge collection with modern installations that spark conversation.
- Umlauf Sculpture Center & Museum – Beautiful gardens filled with sculptures.
- Museum of Ice Cream – Playful rooms, unlimited treats, and sprinkle pool dives.
- Wonderspaces – Mind-bending immersive art perfect for photos.
- Museum of Illusions – Optical tricks and gravity rooms teens love sharing online.
Historic and Free Spots
- Texas State Capitol – Take a free guided tour of the grand building and grounds.
- Cathedral of Junk – A towering structure built from random objects. Totally unique.
Nature and Science
- Austin Nature and Science Center – See rescued animals and walk short trails.
- The Thinkery – Hands-on STEAM exhibits that feel more like play than learning.
These places offer air-conditioning and interesting breaks from the Texas heat.
Outdoor Adventures in Austin with Teens
Austin’s natural side shines bright. Get outside for fresh air and great views.
Parks and Green Spaces
- Zilker Park – Rent bikes, play volleyball, or just relax on the grass.
- Lady Bird Lake – Kayak, paddleboard, or rent retro boats for skyline views.
- Mount Bonnell – Short hike to panoramic city overlooks.
- McKinney Falls State Park – Swim, hike, or bike around waterfalls.
- Barton Springs Pool – Massive spring-fed pool stays 68-70 degrees year-round.
Seasonal Outdoor Highlights
Spring brings bluebonnet fields. Visit Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center for safe, pretty photo spots.
Summer screams for water. Barton Springs or Typhoon Texas water park keep everyone cool.
Fall and winter open hiking trails without intense heat. Try Barton Creek Greenbelt for shaded walks.
Unique Outdoor Experiences
Rent boats from Rowing Dock for self-paced kayaking. Watch bats emerge from Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset (best March to October). Book a bat-watching cruise for prime views.
Shopping and Exploring South Congress with Teens
South Congress Avenue, or SoCo, delivers the classic Austin experience. Teens love the murals, quirky shops, and people-watching.
Must-Visit Shops
- Allens Boots – Huge selection of cowboy boots and hats.
- Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds – Costumes, vintage pieces, and glitter galore.
- Yard Dog Art Gallery – Funky local artwork.
- Tesoros Trading Company – Global treasures and odd finds.
- Kendra Scott flagship store – Pretty jewelry plus a café inside.
- Paper Work – Local artist gifts like posters and tees.
Vintage Shopping in North Loop
When weather cools, head to North Loop.
- Blue Velvet Vintage – Cool clothing finds.
- Room Service Vintage – Fun home items.
- Breakaway Records – Vinyl and retro music gear.
- Revival Vintage – Mix of clothes and furniture.
Bigger Shopping Areas
The Domain offers upscale stores and restaurants when teens want brand names.
Sample Three-Day Itinerary for Things to Do in Austin with Teens
Here is the updated three-day itinerary for Austin with current 2025 estimated pricing and hours of operation for each activity.
Day 1: Iconic Austin and Sunset Bats
- Morning: Fuel up at Gourdough’s Big Fat Donuts. They are open daily from 10:00 AM. Most of their legendary signature donuts are priced around $9.00 to $10.00 each.
- Mid-Morning: Explore South Congress Avenue. This is a free activity, and most boutiques open around 10:00 AM or 11:00 AM.
- Lunch: Grab lunch at Torchy’s Tacos on South Congress. Individual tacos typically range from $4.50 to $6.00. They are open daily from 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Afternoon: Take a dip in Barton Springs Pool. For non-residents, entry is $9.00 for adults and $5.00 for juniors (12-17). It is open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM (note: it is closed for cleaning on Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM).
- Sunset: Watch the bats with Capital Cruises. Sunset bat watching tours are approximately $14.00 for adults. Departure times vary by month but usually start around 7:30 PM or 8:00 PM in the summer.
- Dinner: Enjoy Asian-fusion BBQ at Loro. They are open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM (11:00 PM on weekends). Most plates and bowls are priced between $12.00 and $18.00.
Day 2: High Adrenaline and Retro Gaming
- Morning: Experience flight at iFly Indoor Skydiving. A standard 2-flight experience starts at $94.00 per person. They open at 11:00 AM on weekdays and 9:00 AM on Saturdays.
- Lunch: Visit Bouldin Acres for food and fun. They are open daily from 11:00 AM to Midnight. Entry is free, but you can rent pickleball courts for around $20.00 to $40.00 per hour.
- Afternoon: Play at Cidercade Austin. Admission is a flat $12.00 for unlimited play on over 150 games. They are open from 10:00 AM to Midnight daily (it becomes 18+ only after 9:00 PM).
- Late Afternoon: Visit Wonderspaces or the Museum of Illusions. Wonderspaces tickets are approximately $27.00. The Museum of Illusions is also around $25.00 to $30.00 for adults. Both generally open by 10:00 AM.
- Dinner: Watch a movie at Alamo Drafthouse. Ticket prices vary by showtime but are usually $12.00 to $16.00, plus the cost of your meal. Check their website for specific movie times.
Day 3: Outdoors, Culture, and Skyline Views
- Morning: Start at Jo’s Coffee. The South Congress location is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. A standard latte or breakfast sandwich is roughly $5.00 to $9.00.
- Mid-Morning: Rent a kayak at Lady Bird Lake. Rental rates at spots like EpicSUP or Congress Avenue Kayaks are typically $20.00 to $25.00 per hour for a single kayak. They usually open at 10:00 AM.
- Lunch: Explore East Austin BBQ. Prices vary by weight, but expect to spend $20.00 to $30.00 per person for a full plate of brisket and sides.
- Afternoon: Tour the Texas State Capitol. Self-guided and guided tours are free. The building is open Monday–Friday from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM and weekends from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Sunset: Hike up Mount Bonnell. This is a free park and is open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Evening: Get a treat at Amy’s Ice Creams. The South Congress location is open until 11:00 PM (Midnight on weekends). A standard scoop with a “crush-in” is about $6.00 to $8.00.
Please note that prices and hours are subject to change, so it is always a good idea to check the official website of each venue right before you go.
Best Nearby Parking Options for Your Austin Adventures
Austin is a driving city, and knowing where to park ahead of time can save you a lot of stress. Here are the best parking options for the specific locations in your itinerary:
Day 1: South Congress and Zilker Park Area
- Barton Springs Pool (Zilker Park)
- South Gate Lot (Recommended): Park at 1000 Azie Morton Rd. This is the best option because the North Gate parking lot (William Barton Dr) is currently closed for construction through Spring 2025.
- Stratford Drive Lot: Located across the park, this lot offers a free shuttle to the pool on weekends and holidays from May through September.
- Cost: Parking is free on weekdays. On weekends and holidays (March through Labor Day), it is $3 per hour.
- Congress Avenue Bridge (Bat Watching)
- Vic Mathias Shores (Auditorium Shores): Located at 900 W Riverside Dr, this lot offers free parking and is a short walk to the bridge. It fills up very fast near sunset.
- One Eleven Garage: Located at 111 Congress Ave, this is a safer, covered option if you want to avoid bat droppings on your car. It costs about $3 per hour.
- Line Austin Hotel: Offers public parking at 111 E Cesar Chavez St for roughly $18 for a full day.
Day 2: Thrills and The Domain
- iFLY Indoor Skydiving
- On-Site Parking: iFLY has its own dedicated surface parking lot at 13265 North US 183. Parking is free for all customers.
- Bishop Cidercade (East Riverside)
- Cidercade Surface Lot: There is a dedicated lot directly in front of the building at 600 E Riverside Dr. It is free for customers while they are playing.
- 301 W Riverside Dr Lot: If the main lot is full, this open-air lot is a short walk away and usually costs around $13 for a few hours.
- Museum of Illusions (The Domain)
- Domain Northside Garages: Since the museum is located within The Domain, you can use any of the nearby parking garages (like the Green or Blue garages). Most of these offer free self-parking for the first few hours, making it the most convenient option.
Day 3: Capitol and Lake Travis
- Texas State Capitol
- Capitol Visitors Parking Garage: Located at 1201 San Jacinto Blvd. This is the official garage for tourists.
- Cost: The first two hours are completely free. After that, it is $1 for each additional half hour, with a daily maximum of $12.
- Lake Travis Zipline Adventures
- Private On-Site Parking: The facility is located at 14529 Pocohontas Trail. They have a private, secure parking area for guests included with your tour booking. Because it is a more remote location, you won’t need to worry about street or metered parking.
General Austin Parking Tips
- Use the Park ATX App: For street parking around South Congress or Downtown, download the Park ATX app. It allows you to pay for and extend your parking session directly from your phone.
- Avoid “Statesman” Lot for Bats: There is a lot at 305 S Congress Ave often used for bat watching, but it is known for being very expensive and strictly enforced with high fines for overstaying your time. Stick to the public garages or the Auditorium Shores lot instead.
Tips for the Best Trip to Austin with Teens
Plan around meals. Hungry teens equal grumpy teens. Build snacks and treats into every day.
Let teens pick one activity daily. They feel ownership and stay engaged.
Stay central. Walking beats driving in traffic. Quick hotel breaks help everyone recharge.
Mix high-energy and low-key days. Balance keeps the whole family happy.
Download the Visit Austin app for current hours and events. Check bat season and book popular tours early.
Bring reusable water bottles. Texas heat hits hard.
Pack sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes. You will walk a lot.
Final Thoughts: Making Austin Awesome with Your Teens
Austin hits all the right notes for a family trip with teenagers. The city blends thrilling adventures, mouthwatering food, quirky culture, and stunning outdoors into one unforgettable package. From racing go-karts at K1 Speed to snapping pics at South Congress murals, there are endless things to do in Austin with teens that keep everyone smiling.
The real magic happens when you loosen up the schedule. Plan a few anchor activities each day, like bat watching at Congress Avenue Bridge or swimming at Barton Springs Pool. Then leave room for spontaneous fun. Let your teens pick a spot or two—they will feel involved and stay excited.
Food becomes your secret weapon. Keep snacks handy and build meals around teen favorites like Torchy’s Tacos queso or oversized donuts from Gourdough’s. Happy stomachs mean happy vibes all around.
Stay in a central spot like the Austin Motel on SoCo. Walking to shops and eats cuts stress and gives teens a bit of independence. Quick hotel breaks for pool time or chilling recharge everyone for the next adventure.
Mix it up to avoid burnout. Pair high-energy days with chill ones. One day zip lining at Lake Travis, the next browsing vintage shops in North Loop. Throw in free gems like Texas State Capitol tours or street art hunts to balance the budget.
Check seasonal highlights too. Spring bluebonnets at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center make epic photos. Summer screams for water fun at Typhoon Texas or Lady Bird Lake kayaking. Fall and winter open cozy indoor spots like Wonderspaces or Bishop Cidercade.
Austin embraces the weird in the best way. Your teens will love the offbeat energy—from Cathedral of Junk to retro gaming arcades. These unique experiences create stories you will retell for years.
Pack light, stay hydrated, and embrace the heat with sunscreen and hats. Download apps for real-time event info and book popular tours early, especially bat cruises.
Most importantly, have fun together. Laugh at the massive donuts. Cheer during escape rooms. Watch bats swarm at sunset as a family. Austin delivers bonding moments wrapped in cool vibes.
Your teens might roll their eyes at first, but they will leave loving the city. Keep Austin weird, and make memories that stick. Safe travels—you have got this!
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Austin with Teens
What is the best time of year to visit Austin with teenagers?
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer the best weather. Temperatures stay mild, around 70s to 80s Fahrenheit. You avoid extreme summer heat that can hit over 100 degrees. Spring brings bluebonnets for photos. Fall means less humidity and fun festivals.
How many days should we plan for a trip to Austin with teens?
Aim for 3 to 5 days. This gives time to mix outdoor adventures, food spots, and thrill activities without rushing. A weekend works for highlights like South Congress and bat watching. Add days for day trips or events.
Is Austin safe for families with teenagers?
Yes, especially in tourist areas like downtown, South Congress, and Lady Bird Lake. These spots stay busy and family-friendly. Austin ranks safer than many big cities. Use common sense at night and avoid less-lit areas.
Do we need a car in Austin, or can we get around without one?
Stay central like downtown or SoCo to walk or bike easily. Use CapMetro buses, rideshares like Uber/Lyft, or rent bikes/scooters. A car helps for spots like Hamilton Pool. Public transit and rideshares work well in the city core.
How do we get from the Austin airport to downtown with teens?
Take CapMetro Route 20 bus for a cheap, direct ride. Rideshares cost $30-50 and go door-to-door with luggage. Shared shuttles offer budget options. Avoid taxis as they cost more.
What is a typical budget for a family of four visiting Austin for a few days?
Expect $1,000-2,000 per day total, including mid-range hotel ($200-400/night), meals ($150-300/day), and activities ($100-200). Cut costs with free spots like parks and bat watching. Food trucks help keep eating affordable.
Are there good vegetarian or vegan options in Austin for picky teens?
Austin shines with plant-based spots. Try Bouldin Creek Cafe for vegan comfort food or The Vegan Nom for tacos. Many places like Torchy’s offer veggie tacos. True Food Kitchen marks vegan and gluten-free clearly.
What about gluten-free or allergy-friendly food?
Many restaurants handle allergies well. Picnik is 100% gluten-free with vegan options. Zucchini Kill Bakery offers gluten-free vegan treats. Chains like True Food Kitchen label items. Always ask servers about cross-contamination.
Can teens enjoy Austin’s live music scene?
Yes, many all-ages shows happen. Check Austin City Limits at Moody Theater for family concerts. Outdoor festivals often welcome teens. Some venues allow under-21 with parents.
What family-friendly events or festivals happen in Austin?
Look for Rodeo Austin in spring with rides and concerts. Summer brings free Zilker Musical. Fall offers Pecan Street Festival with art and music. Holiday lights and markets add winter fun.
Are there good day trips from Austin suitable for teens?
Head to Hamilton Pool for swimming and hiking—book ahead. San Antonio offers the River Walk, Alamo, and zoo, about 1.5 hours away. New Braunfels has tubing and water parks.
Is public transportation easy for families with teens?
CapMetro buses run reliably downtown. Buy day passes for unlimited rides. Teens ride free or discounted sometimes. Apps help plan routes. Combine with walking in central areas.
How walkable is Austin for families?
Downtown, South Congress, and Lady Bird Lake trails prove very walkable. Rent bikes for longer distances. Sidewalks and paths connect key spots. Avoid spreading out too far without transport.
What should we pack for Austin weather with teens?
Bring layers, sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles. Summers demand light clothes and swimsuits. Springs and falls need jackets for evenings. Comfortable walking shoes suit everyone.
Are there indoor activities for rainy or hot days?
Visit museums like Blanton or Bullock. Arcades like Pinstack or Cidercade offer fun. Indoor skydiving at iFly or escape rooms provide air-conditioned thrills.
Can we bike around Austin as a family?
Rent bikes and hit Lady Bird Lake trail for scenic, car-free riding. Many paths stay family-friendly. Helmets required for kids under 18. E-bikes help with hills.
What free activities keep teens entertained?
Watch bats at Congress Bridge. Hike Mount Bonnell for views. Explore Texas State Capitol tours. Street art and murals on South Congress offer photo ops.
How do we handle food allergies at popular spots like BBQ places?
Many BBQ joints offer sides like beans or salads. Ask about cross-contamination. Vegan spots or taco places provide safer alternatives. Apps list allergy-friendly restaurants.
Is Austin expensive compared to other cities?
Costs run moderate. Hotels and food match big cities, but free outdoors balance it. Budget options like food trucks and parks keep trips affordable.
What tips help teens stay engaged on the trip?
Let them pick one activity daily. Mix thrills with downtime. Use social media for photo spots. Food rewards keep moods high. Flexible plans allow spontaneity.
Are there water activities safe for teens?
Kayak or paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake. Barton Springs Pool stays cool year-round. Older teens try wakeboarding at QuestATX. Always supervise and use life jackets.
How late do things stay open for evening activities?
Many spots run late. Arcades and dinner places open until midnight. Bat watching happens at dusk seasonally. Alamo Drafthouse shows movies with food into the night.
What if our teens have different interests?
Austin offers variety. One loves thrills—try go-karts. Another prefers art—hit museums. Outdoors for hiking, shopping for vintage finds. Balance the itinerary.
Are rideshares safe and easy for families?
Uber and Lyft work great. Use family profiles or share rides. Costs stay reasonable downtown. Teens over 18 ride alone in some cases, but check rules.
Any tips for visiting during peak events like festivals?
Book hotels early. Use public transit to avoid traffic. Check all-ages events. Festivals add fun but crowds—plan breaks.