3 day itinerary for Austin

Itinerary

Austin is such a vibrant city with a fantastic mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 3-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and happy!

## Day 1: Explore Downtown and the Waterfront

Morning:

• Breakfast at Kerbey Lane Cafe: Start your day with some delicious pancakes or their famous queso. This local favorite has a great family-friendly vibe.
• Visit the Texas State Capitol: After breakfast, take a short walk to the Texas State Capitol. The building is stunning, and you can take a free guided tour. Kids will love the history and the chance to see where the state government operates!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at The Picnic: Head over to this food truck park where you can find a variety of options to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. From BBQ to tacos, there’s something for everyone!
• Zilker Park: After lunch, spend the afternoon at Zilker Park. You can rent a canoe or kayak on Lady Bird Lake, or just enjoy a leisurely stroll. The park has a great playground for the kids, and you can even pack a picnic to enjoy on the grass.

Evening:

• Dinner at Chuy’s: This colorful Tex-Mex restaurant is a hit with families. The atmosphere is fun, and the food is delicious. Don’t forget to try their famous creamy jalapeño dip!
• Catch the Bats: If you’re visiting between March and November, head to the Congress Avenue Bridge around sunset to watch the bats emerge. It’s a unique Austin experience that the whole family will love!

## Day 2: Culture and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast at Magnolia Cafe: This iconic spot serves up hearty breakfast options. The “Migas” are a must-try!
• Visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum: After breakfast, dive into Texas history at this engaging museum. There are interactive exhibits that kids will enjoy, and it’s a great way to learn about the state’s rich heritage.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Home Slice Pizza: Grab a slice of delicious New York-style pizza. The casual atmosphere is perfect for families.
• Visit the Austin Nature & Science Center: Spend the afternoon exploring this hands-on center. Kids can learn about local wildlife, and there are plenty of outdoor exhibits to enjoy.

Evening:

• Dinner at Salt Lick BBQ: Head out to Driftwood (about 30 minutes from downtown) for some authentic Texas BBQ. The family-style dining is perfect for sharing, and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.
• Stargazing at the University of Texas: If you’re up for it, check if the UT Astronomy Department is hosting a public star party. It’s a fantastic way to end the day under the stars!

## Day 3: Adventure and Fun

Morning:

• Breakfast at Biscuit Brothers: Start your day with some fluffy biscuits and gravy. It’s a cozy spot that’s perfect for families.
• Visit the Austin Zoo: Spend the morning at this rescue zoo, where you can see a variety of animals and learn about conservation efforts. It’s a smaller zoo, which makes it manageable for little ones.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at The Salt Lick BBQ (if you loved it, go again!) or a local food truck: If you’re still craving BBQ, go for it! Otherwise, check out a local food truck for a quick bite.
• Play at the Thinkery: This children’s museum is packed with interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play. It’s a fantastic way for kids to explore science, technology, engineering, and art.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Domain: Head to this outdoor shopping area where you can find a variety of family-friendly restaurants. You can choose from places like Maggiano’s or The Cheesecake Factory.
• Evening Stroll at The Domain: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around The Domain. There are often family-friendly events or live music happening, and it’s a great way to wind down your trip.

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider using rideshare apps or renting bikes to get around, as parking can be tricky in some areas.
• Weather: Austin can be hot, so make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing family adventure in Austin! Enjoy every moment! 🌟