Round Rock, Texas: A Kid-Friendly Family Guide

Welcome to Round Rock, Texas! Just 15 miles north of Austin, Round Rock is a fantastic destination for families with kids. With exciting parks, delicious treats, and plenty of activities to keep little ones entertained, this city has something for every age group. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Round Rock with kids.

Getting to Round Rock

Round Rock sits along Interstate 35, making it a convenient stop from Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas. If you are flying into Texas, the nearest airport is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), about 30 miles away. From there, you can rent a car or take a rideshare.

Best Time to Visit Round Rock

Round Rock is great to visit year-round, but spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer the best weather for outdoor fun. If you’re planning a Christmas visit, you’ll be in for a magical holiday experience with festive lights and special events.

Top Kid-Friendly Attractions

Round Rock, Texas, is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of kid-friendly attractions that promise fun, adventure, and learning. From thrilling water parks and interactive museums to sprawling playgrounds and sports complexes, there’s something for every young explorer. Whether your little ones love outdoor adventures, hands-on activities, or simply a place to run and play, Round Rock has plenty to offer. Here’s a look at the top kid-friendly attractions that make this city a great spot for family outings!

Round Rock Donuts

A visit to Round Rock Donuts is a must! Their famous yellow donuts are a hit with kids and adults alike. Try their giant donut for an extra fun experience!

Play for All Park

Play for All Park is a fully inclusive playground is designed for kids of all abilities. With sensory-friendly play areas, swings, and climbing structures, it’s the perfect place for kids to explore and have fun.

Rock’N River Water Park

Cool off at Rock’N River Water Park, featuring waterslides, a lazy river, and splash zones for younger kids. Open during summer, it’s a great place to beat the Texas heat.

Downtown Round Rock

Downtown Round Rock is a charming blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy, making it a must-visit destination in Central Texas. Lined with historic buildings, colorful murals, and locally owned shops, this walkable district exudes small-town charm with a contemporary twist. Visitors can explore unique boutiques, enjoy live music, or indulge in mouthwatering Texas barbecue at the famous Salt Lick. The heart of downtown is Prete Plaza, a lively gathering spot hosting community events, farmers’ markets, and seasonal celebrations. With its blend of rich history, family-friendly attractions, and a thriving food scene, Downtown Round Rock offers a perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.

Amy’s Ice Creams

Need a sweet treat? Amy’s Ice Creams is the perfect stop! Kids will love watching their ice cream get tossed and mixed with their favorite toppings.

Juiceland

For a refreshing, healthy option, head to Juiceland for delicious smoothies and fresh juices packed with nutrients for the whole family. At the Round Rock location, my kids love to ride the fun Banana Dolphin located right out front of the juice shop. See photos below!

Altitude Trampoline Park

Let the kids jump their energy out at Altitude Trampoline Park, which features wall-to-wall trampolines, a foam pit, and a ninja course.

Urban Air Adventure Park

This massive indoor adventure park has trampolines, zip lines, climbing walls, and even a virtual reality experience! Perfect for a rainy day or when the Texas sun is too hot.

The Round Rock

Visit the historic Round Rock, which gave the city its name. Located in Brushy Creek, this site was once a crossing point for cattle drives and makes for a fun history lesson.

Things to Do During Christmas in Round Rock

Round Rock turns into a winter wonderland during the holidays. Here are some kid-friendly Christmas activities in Round Rock.

Christmas Family Night

Enjoy a festive evening in Downtown Round Rock with Santa visits, holiday crafts, and twinkling lights.

Rock’N Lights Holiday Light Tour

At The Light Park you can take a magical drive through a mile-long light display synchronized to holiday music.

Santa’s Jingle House

At Santa’s Jingle House kids can meet Santa, enjoy holiday crafts, and listen to Christmas stories.

Ice Skating at The Crossover

Glide across the ice at this fun seasonal rink, perfect for families.

Tinplate Trackers Christmas Model Trains at The City Arts Center in Downtown Round Rock

The Tinplate Trackers Christmas Model Trains at The City Arts Center in Downtown Round Rock is a beloved holiday tradition that captivates visitors of all ages. This festive display features intricately designed model trains chugging through detailed miniature landscapes, bringing the magic of the season to life. Families can marvel at the craftsmanship, watch the trains weave through enchanting holiday scenes, and experience a nostalgic holiday atmosphere in the heart of Round Rock.

Outdoor Fun and Parks in Round Rock

Round Rock is a paradise for outdoor lovers, especially in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and perfect for exploring. The city boasts beautiful parks, scenic trails, and fun-filled outdoor spaces for all ages. Families can enjoy playgrounds and splash pads at Play for All Park, hike or bike the scenic trails at Brushy Creek Regional Park, or catch a baseball game at Dell Diamond. With pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine, these seasons are ideal for picnics, sports, and enjoying the natural beauty Round Rock has to offer.

Old Settlers Park

Spanning 640 acres, Old Settlers Park is a fantastic spot for a family picnic, hiking, biking, and fishing. There’s even a playground and splash pad for kids.

Brushy Creek Regional Trail

For families who love biking or walking, the Brushy Creek Regional Trail offers scenic views, waterfalls, and shaded paths perfect for strollers.

Bass Pro Shops

This might seem like an odd edition to the list, by hear me out! The location in Round Rock is more than just a store, Bass Pro Shops has an indoor aquarium, fun wildlife displays, and even a kid-friendly archery range.

Family-Friendly Restaurants in Round Rock

Round Rock is home to a variety of family-friendly restaurants that cater to all tastes and ages. From delicious Texas barbecue at Salt Lick to classic diner favorites at Gatti’s Pizza, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, outdoor seating, and fun atmospheres, making dining out a stress-free experience for families. Whether you’re craving comfort food, Tex-Mex, or a sweet treat from Round Rock Donuts, the city’s dining scene is full of great options for a memorable meal with loved ones.

Best BBQ & Tex-Mex

Salt Lick BBQ

Salt Lick BBQ is a legendary Texas BBQ spot perfect for a delicious meal.

La Margarita Restaurante

La Margarita Restaurante is a great family-friendly Tex-Mex restaurant with a fun atmosphere.

Casual Dining & Cafés

Jack Allen’s Kitchen

A great option for comfort food with farm-fresh ingredients.

Kerbey Lane Café

Known for its all-day breakfast, especially the kid-favorite pancakes.

Desserts & Treats

Tiff’s Treats

Warm, fresh-baked cookies delivered straight to your hands!

Dumont Creamery and Cafe

Dumont Creamery & Cafe in Round Rock offers a delightful selection of handcrafted ice creams, bubble teas, and shade-grown Karafa coffee, providing a flavorful experience for all taste buds.

Day Trips from Round Rock

If you have extra time, consider taking a short drive to explore these nearby attractions:

Austin, TX (20 minutes): Visit South Congress, The Museum of Ice Cream, the Thinkery (a fantastic children’s museum), and take a dip in Barton Springs Pool.
Georgetown, TX (15 minutes): Check out Blue Hole Park and Inner Space Cavern for an underground adventure.
San Antonio, TX (90 minutes): Visit the San Antonio Zoo, The DoSeum (a hands-on children’s museum), and the famous River Walk.

Annual Events & Festivals

Round Rock hosts fun events throughout the year that are great for kids:

Round Rock Chalk Walk (October): A festival with beautiful sidewalk art, live music, and food trucks.
Frontier Days (July 4th): Enjoy fireworks, a parade, and fun activities for the whole family.
Christmas Family Night (December): A magical holiday event with Santa and festive entertainment.

Where to Stay

Round Rock has a variety of family-friendly accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to more luxurious options:

Embassy Suites by Hilton: Spacious suites with free breakfast and an indoor pool.
Austin Marriott North: Modern amenities and a kid-friendly atmosphere.
The Ruby Hotel & Bar: A charming boutique hotel with great views and a relaxing vibe.

Final Thoughts

Round Rock, Texas, is a fantastic destination for families looking for adventure, delicious treats, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re here for a weekend or longer, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with kids. From water parks to Christmas magic, Round Rock is a perfect family getaway.

Start planning your trip today and get ready for an amazing time in Round Rock!