Fun Summer Events & Things to Do for Families
Looking for the best July activities for kids in Austin? Whether you’re a local parent or visiting the city for summer vacation, Austin is packed with fun, family-friendly events all month long. From splash-worthy waterparks to 4th of July fireworks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are our top picks for Austin family activities this July!
🎆 1. Celebrate the 4th of July in Austin
Independence Day is one of the most exciting times to be in Austin with kids. These are some must-see events:
- Austin Symphony H-E-B July 4th Concert & Fireworks
Head to Auditorium Shores for live music, food vendors, and a stunning fireworks display over Lady Bird Lake. It’s one of the top things to do with kids in Austin on the 4th of July. - Round Rock Frontier Days
Just north of Austin, this event includes a parade, live entertainment, pig races, and fireworks—perfect for families looking for small-town charm. - Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic
Teens and music-loving families will enjoy this iconic celebration featuring country legends and fireworks.
💦 2. Cool Off at Austin’s Best Water Spots
July heat means one thing: water play! These local favorites are great for cooling down with the whole family.
- Barton Springs Pool
Located in Zilker Park, this natural spring-fed pool is always a refreshing 68°F. - Deep Eddy Pool
Texas’s oldest man-made pool offers shade, lap swimming, and a shallow area for little ones. - Typhoon Texas in Pflugerville
Slides, splash pads, lazy rivers, and even a July 4th “Red, White & Boom” celebration! - Lake Travis Zipline Adventures
Great for older kids looking for a thrill—combine lake views with zipline fun!
🎭 3. Outdoor Movies & Music Nights
Looking for free things to do in Austin with kids this July? Don’t miss these family-friendly evenings:
- Zilker Summer Musical
This year’s show, Bring It On, runs July 11–August 10. Pack a picnic and enjoy live musical theater under the stars. - The Drop-In at Long Center
Weekly free concerts overlooking the skyline. Bring chairs, snacks, and dancing shoes! - Movies in the Park
Local parks often host outdoor screenings like Encanto and The Little Mermaid. Check the Austin Parks Foundation for schedules.
🌿 4. Explore Nature & Gardens
- Zilker Botanical Garden Faerie Trail (until July 12)
An enchanting experience for kids to hunt for fairy houses hidden along the trails. - Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Don’t miss the Dino Days exhibit—life-size dinosaur replicas and STEAM-themed activities. - Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
A peaceful oasis with peacocks, koi ponds, and beautiful shaded trails.
🧪 5. Educational Fun at Museums
Mix fun with learning at these family-approved spots:
- The Thinkery
A hands-on children’s museum with water play, art, science experiments, and a free admission night every Tuesday from 3–7 PM. - Texas Science & Natural History Museum
Explore fossils, wildlife, and Texas nature. Great for all ages—and free to visit! - Bullock Texas State History Museum
Interactive exhibits, IMAX movies, and rotating family-friendly programming.
🚂 6. Trains, Storytimes & Hidden Gems
- Zilker Eagle Mini-Train
Ride through Zilker Park with views of Barton Creek and the playground. - Storytimes at Local Favorites
BookPeople, Austin Public Library, and Cherrywood Coffeehouse all host weekly free storytimes perfect for little readers. - Peter Pan Mini Golf & Congress Avenue Bats
End a July evening by watching 1.5 million bats fly from the bridge at sunset.
🏕️ 7. Camps & Drop-In Recreation
Looking for structured fun? Many of Austin’s parks offer free or low-cost summer camps and drop-in programs:
- Austin Parks & Recreation Summer Playgrounds Program
Weekdays from 9 AM–5 PM with crafts, games, and sports. No registration required. - Sunshine Camps at Zilker & Lake Travis
Affordable overnight and day camp options for Austin youth, with financial aid available.
📝 Final Tips for Parents
- Pack wisely: Sunscreen, refillable water bottles, hats, and snacks are essentials.
- Go early or late: Mornings and evenings are best to avoid peak heat.
- Follow event pages: Keep up with any last-minute changes or weather delays.
📍 Related Searches:
- Family-friendly July events in Austin
- Things to do with kids in Austin this summer
- Best places to cool off with kids in Austin
- Free summer events for kids in Austin
- Austin July 4th fireworks for families
Looking for a family photo session while you’re enjoying Austin this summer? I’d love to capture your adventure—contact Jaclyn Specia Photography to book your session!
links
🎆 4th of July Events in Austin
- Austin Symphony H-E-B July 4th Concert & Fireworks
- Round Rock Frontier Days
- Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic
💦 Water Fun & Pools
🎭 Outdoor Entertainment
- Zilker Summer Musical – “Bring It On”
- The Drop-In at the Long Center
- Movies in the Park (Austin Parks Foundation)
