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Top 5 Kid-Friendly Activities in Tarrytown

Top 5 Kid-Friendly Activities in Tarrytown

Tarrytown is an ideal home for families with kids. The area has hiking trails, playgrounds, museums, and other attractions for the whole family. Tarrytown also has a vibrant local culture that families can experience all year round at local farmers markets and festivals.

Whether you are new to Tarrytown or considering a move to this family-friendly Austin neighborhood, there is plenty to explore. If you are ready to learn more, read about five of the area's best kid-friendly activities.

1. Outdoor fun for families

Explore the Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve

As one of the best Tarrytown things to do, the Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve offers 23 acres with family sites such as hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. Families can explore the nature preserve to learn about local wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and turtles. Educational programs and guided tours are available to help ensure you get all the details.

The park's openness makes it an excellent place for parents who want to sit and relax while the kids explore. Regardless of the weather, families can find something to do at the park, such as investigating the historic Mayfield Cottage and Gardens, where you can learn about its rich history.

Splash around at the Deep Eddy Municipal Pool

The Deep Eddy Municipal Pool is a popular destination for families with a shallow end perfect for young children and a deep end for older kids and adults. The pool is spring-fed with a temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a refreshing swim experience even during hot Texas summers.

Kids will love the wading area, diving board, and slides at the pool. There are also swim lessons and events like movie nights and pool parties throughout the summer. Visitors are welcome to pack their own snacks and food, but there is also a concession stand if you would rather save yourself the extra baggage.

2. Educational activities

Visit the Austin Nature and Science Center

The Austin Nature and Science Center delivers a variety of interactive exhibits that allow children to learn about the natural world through engaging activities. The exhibits cover various topics, including geology, astronomy, and natural history. There are even live animal displays providing hands-on learning opportunities. The center also hosts educational programs and workshops for kids of all ages.

One of the center's highlights is the Dino Pit, where kids can become mini paleontologists and unearth dinosaur bones and fossils. Visitors can also explore the center's nature trails and gardens, which showcase a wide range of local flora and fauna.

Learn through play at Thinkery

If you are looking for educational Tarrytown things to do, it is hard to do better than the Thinkery. This interactive children's museum offers various exhibits and activities to promote creativity and curiosity. The museum allows children to learn through play, inspiring interest in STEAM subjects (science, technology, engineering, art, and math). Kids can explore the forces of gravity, create their own inventions, or learn about food science in a fun and engaging way.

With its focus on hands-on learning, Thinkery provides a great way to encourage your child's love of learning in a fun and interactive environment. The museum offers programs for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. Thinkery hosts annual special events, such as holiday-themed activities and summer camps.

3. Museums and art

Experience the Bullock Texas State History Museum

The Bullock Texas State History Museum is a must-visit destination for any family with curious or creative children. The museum offers a range of interactive exhibits and programs that cater to kids of all ages. Children can step into the shoes of cowboys, explore what it would be like to be a wildcatter on a drilling rig, or even see first-hand the life of an astronaut.

The museum's IMAX theater brings history to life with special effects and provides an immersive learning experience for visitors. Families can also participate in hands-on activities such as creating their own cattle brand or building a miniature oil derrick. The museum even hosts special events and programs for children, such as story time and craft workshops.

Explore art and nature at Laguna Gloria

The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria is a 14-acre historic site featuring contemporary art installations and sculptures amidst beautiful surroundings. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, sculptures, a picturesque view of Lake Austin, or just take in the surrounding hills.

Laguna Gloria offers various programs for children, including summer camps and family art-making workshops. Kids can also try the on-site Art School, which offers painting, drawing, and sculpture classes. The museum hosts various events throughout the year, including family-friendly festivals and concerts.

4. Family food adventures

Treat the family to The Picnic

One of the biggest challenges when dining out as a family is finding something on which everyone can agree. Luckily for those in Tarrytown, there is The Picnic food truck park. The food trucks at this family-friendly destination serve a variety of food options, such as tacos, burgers, and pizza. The selection of food trucks is constantly rotating, meaning there are always new foods to try.

The Picnic is open year-round and hosts special events such as movie nights and holiday celebrations. The park also has amenities such as picnic tables, lawn games, live music, and a playground so the kids can stay entertained while adults savor their food.

Enjoy a sweet treat at the Big Top

Big Top Candy Shop is a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth. This kid-friendly store serves up a variety of candies, chocolates, and ice creams, as well as homemade fudge and caramel apples. With its vintage decor and old-fashioned soda fountain, the shop offers a nostalgic feel that will transport you back in time.

Your family can even watch as candy is made on-site or participate in making your own candy creations. Big Top also has vegan and gluten-free treats to meet the needs of families with dietary restrictions.

5. Fun on the water

Take a kayak out on Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake is ideal for beginner kayakers and young children because of its calm and shallow waters. Even if you tip, getting back in is no problem. Renting kayaks is also easy, with several rental locations around the lake.

While kayaking, you can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding hills and get close to local wildlife, such as turtles, fish, and birds. The lake presents plenty of opportunities for your family to explore nature and bond outdoors.

Go fishing at Reed Neighborhood Park

One of the best kid-friendly Tarrytown things to do is to go fishing at Reed Neighborhood Park. The park's pond is stocked with various fish for kids to learn to catch. You can rent fishing gear at the park or bring your own. The park also has picnic tables, benches, and shaded areas where families can relax and enjoy a picnic or snack by the water.

Find the perfect Tarrytown family home

Finding the perfect family home in Tarrytown starts with the right real estate agent. An agent who knows the local market can provide the data and insights you need to make an informed decision. They can also help you through every step of the process, from house hunting to negotiating a final price. If you are looking for real estate in Tarrytown, reach out to an experienced agent with Grimes Group Austin to guide you through the process today!

*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock




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