Things To Do With Kids in Westlake Hills, TX

The Escape Game Austin challenges families to work together solving puzzles and uncovering clues in elaborately themed rooms where you have 60 minutes to complete your mission. With immersive storylines ranging from prison breaks to gold heists, kids learn problem-solving and teamwork while having an absolute blast racing against the clock. The game masters provide hints when needed, ensuring families stay engaged without getting frustrated.

ZACH Theatre is Austin's premier family theater, producing high-quality musicals and plays specifically designed to captivate young audiences. From beloved classics to contemporary shows, the productions feature professional actors, colorful sets, and engaging storylines that introduce children to the magic of live theater. Beyond performances, ZACH offers youth camps and educational programs that allow kids to explore theater arts hands-on.

The Bullock Museum brings Texas history to life through immersive exhibits that let kids experience everything from Native American cultures to space exploration, complete with a three-story IMAX theater showing educational films. Interactive displays include a La Belle shipwreck replica, vintage vehicles, and hands-on activities that make history tangible for young learners.

Zilker Metropolitan Park is Austin's crown jewel outdoor space offering 350 acres of endless family fun including the famous Barton Springs natural swimming pool, massive playgrounds, the Zilker Eagle miniature train, botanical gardens, and wide open fields perfect for kite flying and picnics. It's where Austin families spend entire days moving between activities without ever leaving the park.

Mesa Rim Climbing Center is a state-of-the-art indoor rock climbing facility featuring towering rope climbing walls, extensive bouldering areas, and a dedicated kids' zone that makes climbing accessible and fun for beginners and experienced climbers alike. The facility offers a safe, controlled environment where kids can build confidence, problem-solve, and challenge themselves physically,all while having a blast trying to reach the top or figure out tricky boulder problems.

Barton Springs Pool is an iconic Austin natural swimming hole fed by underground springs that maintain a refreshing 68-70°F temperature year-round. Kids love the massive 3-acre pool that feels more like swimming in a natural creek, complete with grassy areas for picnicking and plenty of space to explore. The cool water is perfect for hot Texas days, and families can spot fish, turtles, and other wildlife swimming alongside them.

Zilker Botanical Garden is a 28-acre oasis where kids can explore dinosaur sculptures in the prehistoric garden, feed koi fish in the serene Japanese garden, and discover butterflies among native Texas wildflowers. The winding paths and themed garden rooms feel like stepping into different worlds, keeping young explorers engaged as they hunt for turtles in the ponds and lizards along the trails. It's an educational nature experience that doesn't feel like a classroom,just pure outdoor discovery.

Thinkery is Austin's premier children's museum where kids can explore 40,000 square feet of interactive STEM exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity. From building structures to experimenting with water flow systems and creating art, every corner invites hands-on discovery that makes learning feel like pure play.

Peter Pan Mini-Golf is a beloved Austin landmark that's been entertaining families since 1948, featuring two whimsical 18-hole courses decorated with dinosaurs, castles, and other fun obstacles. The vintage charm and colorful statues create a nostalgic atmosphere that appeals to both kids and parents, making it a quintessential Austin experience. It's affordable, unpretentious fun that's perfect for a casual family outing without breaking the bank.

River Place Nature Trail offers families an accessible introduction to Hill Country hiking with well-maintained trails that wind through beautiful Texas terrain and reward young hikers with stunning Lake Travis overlooks. The network of interconnected paths allows you to customize your adventure based on your kids' energy levels, making it perfect for everyone from beginning trail explorers to more experienced young hikers.

Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve offers 227 acres of pristine Texas Hill Country where families can explore easy-to-moderate hiking trails, spot wildlife like deer and butterflies, and discover native plants through hands-on educational programs. This non-profit nature preserve provides a peaceful escape from city life while teaching kids about conservation and the unique ecosystems right in Austin's backyard.

Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park is a hidden gem offering families 215 acres of natural beauty along Lake Austin. With easy hiking trails winding through scenic terrain, a peaceful lakefront perfect for wading and swimming, and plenty of shaded picnic spots, it's an ideal escape from the city without actually leaving the Austin area.