As the capital of Texas, Austin offers many entertainment options for families. Its winters are relatively mild so people can still enjoy the outdoors. January is the coldest month with temperatures that usually range between 41 and 61 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Some attractions in Austin include the following.
Film Festivals
Winter festivals in Austin include Other Worlds Austin and the Austin Music Video Festival, both of which are held in December. Other Worlds Austin is the only science fiction film festival in the region and showcases movies from around the world. The Austin Music Video Festival includes workshops, parties, and an awards show.
Austin Nature & Science Center
The Austin Nature & Science Center features dinosaurs and a variety of hands-on exhibits. It also has a wildlife rehabilitation facility on the premises. Admission is free.
Zilker Park
Zilker Park boasts 351 acres that include gardens, natural springs, hiking trails, and waterfalls. Zilker Park is also the site of many events. In December, for example, the park sets up the 155 feet tall Zilker Holiday Tree. The subsequent tree-lighting ceremony includes food, live music, and other entertainment. Zilker Park also hosts the Austin Trail of Lights that features holiday scenes and light decorations.
Ice Skating
Whole Foods flagship store, which is located downtown, operates an outdoor ice skating rink that is open from late November through January. The hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visitors may also enjoy hot cocoa at the food court.
BookPeople
BookPeople bills itself as the “largest independent bookstore in Texas.” It holds many events like “storytimes” for children, book signings featuring local authors, and lectures.
Austin Zoo
Austin Zoo is a hybrid of a regular zoo and an animal rehabilitation facility; all of the animals are rescues. The zoo houses 300 animals belonging to 100 species including lions, tigers, black bears, peacocks, and emus.
Peter Pan Mini Golf
Peter Pan Mini Golf boasts two 18-hole golf courses and has been entertaining families since the 1940s. It is downtown near the river and is known for its statues of Peter Pan and a T-Rex. Peter Pan is open every day, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but it will close in the event of bad weather.