When looking for an impressive place to take the family on a spontaneous getaway, Austin is a great place to start. From a relaxing day at a freshwater spring to an exciting afternoon of one-on-one laser tag, this unique city is packed with an endless array of fun-filled opportunities.
Barton Springs Pool, in Zilker Park, is Austin's most popular family swimming hole in the city. This unique attraction is spring fed and stretches over 900 feet long. Because it was formed from the damming of Barton Creek, this pool has a natural rock and gravel bottom. Within its dwellings are a variety of water depths, challenging diving boards, and safe stairs and ladders for entering and exiting the area. Throughout the spring-like pool eager explorers can observe the subtle, but varied water temperatures from one spot to the next. The spring’s average temperature is 68 degrees F year round, so be prepared for an exhilarating entry. Check online for current costs and park operation hours.
The famous Austin Zoo is always a great place to spend the day with family. This animal sanctuary, located in the beautiful hill country just outside the hub of the city, houses more than 300 animals across over 100 different species. Visited by thousands of guests each year, the Austin Zoo offers an exciting venue for animal exploration and a safe haven for many homeless or neglected creatures. The zoo is open year round and the fees for admission are reasonable.
For the non-stop action lovers, Austin is home to Blazer’s Laser Tag Center. Held in a 3-story 10,000 square foot arena, participants dressed in vests and carrying laser guns set out on a quest to shoot opponents and score points. Each shot that hits an opponent’s vest earns points for the shooter, and at the end of the session the player with the most points earned wins. Each session runs for approximately 20 minutes during which up to 45 people can participate. The games are exciting and very fast-paced. Costs may vary.
The one of a kind Inner Space Caverns is conveniently found just 24 miles north of Austin, Texas. Formed millions of years ago, the original cavern is filled with history. It is currently a living cave with wondrous sites to explore. Inside adventurers will find brilliant stalactites, stalagmites, helectites, soda straws, and beautiful cave draperies. A newer dwelling, having formed over the last 80,000 years, features fascinating rock formations that bring forth all sorts of science related questions. Moderate temperatures of 72 degrees year round make for a pleasant atmosphere for everyone. The caverns are open 7 days a week throughout most of each day. Pricing is available online and at the cavern entrance.
For an adventurous afternoon, bring the family aboard the Hill Country Flyer, Austin’s own passenger train service. The ride begins in Austin’s Cedar Park where patrons board the train. Once the conductor gives the call, the train departs and winds its way down Short Creek Canyon. Next it crosses Timber Bridge, heads through the pasturelands and into the town of Liberty Hill, and finally climbs back up into Hill Country. For a delightful afternoon, bring along a picnic, a camera, and the readiness to have a relaxing but awe-inspiring day.
in Texas
