Downtown: Library & Lady Bird Lake

Photo: Mikerussell / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Austin's showpiece library, then the lake trail and a museum with free Sundays.

• Downtown
• Ages 2–12
• Free to $
• Best for: Ages 2–12

1. Morning · 10am–noon
   

   Photo: Mikerussell / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

   Austin Central Library (Children's Area)

   The kids' floor, the rooftop butterfly garden and the giant reading porch.

   Austin Central Library (Children's Area)

   Cost: Free (garage: 1st hour free, then $5 up to 2 hrs). Hours: Mon–Thu 9 AM–8 PM; Fri 9 AM–5 PM; Sat 10 AM–5 PM; Sun noon–5 PM.

   See in the guide →
2. Lunch
   

   Mikerussell / CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

   Café Crème (inside the Central Library)

   It's inside the library, so you never have to leave. The library lists it as its new restaurant. We couldn't confirm a menu or kids' options online, so check when you visit.

   Café Crème (inside the Central Library) · 710 W César Chávez St, Austin, TX 78701

   Website
3. Afternoon · 1–2:30pm
   

   Photo: Sparkeyemusic / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

   Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

   Stroll the boardwalk section over the water. Bring the scooter.

   Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail

   Cost: Free. Hours: Trail 5 AM–10 PM; Boardwalk 5 AM–midnight. Alternative: Mexic-Arte Museum (free Sundays). A short, colorful museum stop.

   See in the guide →

Rainy day backup: The Contemporary Austin – Jones Center

Contemporary art downtown. Under 18 always free. Hours: Wed noon–9 PM; Thu–Sun noon–6 PM.

The Contemporary Austin – Jones CenterSee in the guide →

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