This past week, we had so much fun in Dripping Springs, Georgetown, San Antonio, and right at home. Halloween was a blast, but these other four events and activities are what we highly recommend to everyone else. Join us as we recap our highlights and hopefully inspire your own next adventure in this beautiful region of Texas!
What topped our list this week…
1. We reached our goal of 1,000 Hours Outside!
The 1000 Hours Outside movement encourages families to spend more time in nature, aiming for 1,000 hours of outdoor activity each year. Founded by Ginny Yurich, this initiative promotes the physical, mental, and developmental benefits of outdoor play as an alternative to excessive screen time. You track your hours outdoors (individually or as a family) to develop a lasting habit of enjoying nature. The movement has gained popularity worldwide, with families using printable trackers and mobile apps to log their progress.
We started tracking our hours outside four years ago. We didn’t make it to 1000 in the first two years, but last year, we hit our goal by mid-December, and this year, the three of us who keep track exceeded 1000 hours before the end of October! 1000 hours may not sound like a lot of time, but it really is a difficult goal to reach.
I highly encourage your family to try it out for 2025! Since doing this, we’ve had significantly less illness, no more sunburns, less sensitive feet (due to being barefoot often), increased tolerance to heat, more risky play, and so much fun together.
You can access various trackers here directly from the official site, and you can check out Yurich’s books about the benefits of outdoor play, as well as recognizing the impact that screen time, anxiety, and our indoor, sedentary lives have on children today.
2. Kid Librarian Winner!
The Kid Librarian drawing at Dripping Springs Community Library is a new program that recognizes young readers’ enthusiasm for books and libraries. Aimed at children over age 8, this award allows recipients to experience the role of a librarian for a day. Winners help with library tasks, recommend books, and participate in behind-the-scenes activities, offering them a unique perspective on library work.
Our 9-year-old was the lucky winner this week, and she was ecstatic to spend the afternoon with Ms. Olivia at the library, along with two friends who were very curious about the program. My happy girl got to do the tour, set up a whole display of recommended reads, shelve books in the children’s library, record a book review for social media, and ask as many questions as she wanted about life as a librarian.
If this is something your kids would be interested in, there’s a slip of paper at Ms. Olivia’s desk in the children’s section of the library where you can input your info and submit it for the drawing done each week.
3. Day Trip to Georgetown: The Theater and Creative Play
The Georgetown Palace Theatre is currently showcasing Charlotte’s Web as part of its Theatre for Young Audiences program. This adaptation of E.B. White’s classic story brings to life the endearing friendship between Wilbur the pig and Charlotte the spider, who weaves words into her web to save Wilbur from the butcher.
Our group of kids loved every minute of the play! It kept their attention and tugged at their heart strings. It was such a great way to fall in love with Charlotte’s Web all over again.
Unfortunately, the showing scheduled for Nov 9th just sold out, but schools or homeschool groups may still be able to schedule field trips on weekdays through November 8. If Charlotte’s Web doesn’t work out, though, I’m sure your family would enjoy other performances.
Before or after the show, the Creative Playscape at San Gabriel Park is a MUST-visit, as well as the Hat Creek in downtown Georgetown. Both have fun playgrounds and space for imaginative play in nature. If you lunch and play at Hat Creek, you can take a very quick stroll downhill to Blue Hole Park to splash, skip rocks, or walk the trails. Definitely plan to make a full day trip out of your visit to the theater.
4. Marching Band Competition
The UIL Area Marching Band Contest was held in San Antonio on November 2, 2024. This contest brought together the regional qualifiers to compete for a spot in the UIL State Marching Band Championship. The competition was amazing, despite a little bit of rainy weather, and featured dynamic performances, intricate marching formations, and outstanding musicality as bands aimed to secure their place in the prestigious state finals.
The UIL State Marching Band Contest will be hosted at the Alamodome from November 11-12th, 2024, and the Dripping Springs Tiger Marching Band will be competing!
If you’ve never attended a marching band competition, you should check one out. The talent on the field is incredible; the performances are unique and interesting; and much of the music will drum up a bit of nostalgia within.
For more details, you can visit the Alamodome’s official event page: Events | Alamodome.
That’s a wrap on this week’s adventures! What made your week unforgettable? Share below!
This past week, we had so much fun in Austin, Marble Falls, and a few places in between. Join us as we recap our highlights and hopefully inspire your own next adventure in this beautiful corner of Texas!
My 7 and 9 year old kids participated in a trial ninja class at the new Hot Ground Gym, which combines obstacle course running, hand-eye skills “target practice”, and team building challenges that made my kids feel confident, excited, and exhausted afterward. Even my kiddo who frustrates easily overcame difficult obstacles without quitting. Both kids begged me to sign them up immediately, and I heard their friends asking the same of their moms, especially after learning that the obstacles and challenges change each week.
The gym offers weekly classes, including homeschool options, birthday parties, camps, and team-building events. I highly recommend signing up for a trial class! (Best for ages 5+)
2. Book Celebration – The Theatre and a Themed Dinner
To celebrate finishing the novel, Wind in the Willows, the kids and I attended a one-man dramatic reading and interpretation of one of the book’s chapters titled, The Pipers at the Gates of Dawn, at Paramount Theater. The performer was very talented and entertaining, even though my kids were slightly disappointed that Toad’s adventures weren’t included in the play. There are several more performances for kids coming up as a part of The Paramount Family Series, including Goodnight Moon, A Very Electric Christmas, and Dogman: The Musical.
After enjoying the play, the kids and I were inspired to watch the Wind in the Willows movie, then to decorate our table and plan a dinner menu inspired by the book’s plot and characters. They were such fun ways to celebrate Kenneth Graham’s beloved classic!
3. Founders Park and The Pound House
We rarely let a week go by without a visit to Founders Park. Now that the skate park and all of the sidewalks are complete, my kids love to bring their EZY Rollers, skates, or bikes to ride all around.
One of our visits to the park this week also included popping in to The Pound House for Community Monday. Each Monday morning from 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. through November 18th, the public is invited to enjoy the 4.7 acres and participate in a craft on The Pound House grounds. (The house will not be open.) Be sure to Save the Date for Homespun Holiday at The Pound House, Sat, Dec 14th, 10 am – 3 pm as well.
This gem in Marble Falls always tops our Fall bucket list! We’ve been going annually since we moved to the Hill Country. We love that admission is free, and most activities are quite affordable. The staff and the goats are very friendly. The pumpkin patch and surrounding scenery are perfect for photos, including Gram-worthy shots for the teens.
My kids’ must-do activities when we visit are the Berry Bounce (jumping pillow), goat-feeding, Barnyard Maze, and Hayride (with fun surprises). They also enjoyed the new mechanical goats. We had a party of 11 that visited today, and total amount spent was around $125. If you haven’t been yet, definitely plan to take the scenic drive and spend a few hours on the farm before the season ends in mid-November!
That’s a wrap on our week’s adventures! What made your week unforgettable? Share below!
Our Review of One of Austin’s Most Anticipated Annual Attractions
Fortlandia, the Wildflower Center‘s annual outdoor exhibit, has long been a favorite for families seeking wonder, adventure, and hands-on fun in nature. This year’s edition, while colorful and imaginatively themed, has left some longtime visitors feeling nostalgic for its past designs—especially those whose children once reveled in the larger, more interactive forts that used to stretch out along the hiking trails.
Forts of Years Past
In the early years, Fortlandia boasted grand, sprawling forts tucked into the natural landscape. The forts felt like an adventure in themselves, inviting exploration, hide-and-seek, and climbing. Kids of all ages, particularly older ones, loved getting lost in these life-size structures.
However, in recent years, the forts have become smaller, moved closer together in the children’s garden, and seem to be geared more toward toddlers and preschoolers. This year’s selection follows that trend, with only a couple of forts offering the level of interaction that used to be standard.
For children over the age of 6, the novelty of the forts seems to wear off quickly. Pre-teens and teens, in particular, who may have enjoyed Fortlandia’s earlier years, might be slightly disappointed by this year’s setup. Young children, though, will surely marvel at the wonder of the creations and be able to fit easily through the crawlspaces, scramble across nets, and climb ladders.
This Year’s Forts
That said, the Wildflower Center remains a beloved destination for many, including our family. While my elementary-aged kids and their friends raced through the Fortlandia exhibits in about half an hour, they spent the next 4 ½ hours happily playing by the waterfall, climbing the other nearby structures, and building their own forts in the surrounding woods. They also loved doing the scavenger hunt we picked up at the front kiosk and then turning their completed papers in for a prize at the gift shop.
As members of the Wildflower Center, we very much appreciate the uniqueness of the Fortlandia attraction, as well as the staff who takes great care of the forts and grounds. Every visit to the Wildflower Center is a positive one, whether there for a special attraction, evening event, or a typical Tuesday. Despite the fact that my kids may be out-growing the recent contributions to Fortlandia, they still beg to go to the Wildflower Center with their friends, and we’re planning another visit soon.
Our membership has been well worth it, and we’ll continue to renew each year for the foreseeable future. We’ll also continue to recommend The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center to anyone visiting or living in the Austin area. It has brought so much joy and many fond memories to our family.
Do you ever feel like there are just TOO MANY EVENTS in the Texas Hill Country, especially in the Fall? In true Texas spirit, Halloween and Fall events get bigger and better every year.
In a previous post, I shared how you can “Fall so hard” throughout the months of October and November, visiting pumpkin patches, immersing yourself in nature on guided hikes, peeping some leaves, carrying on the Friday Night Lights tradition, and enjoying carnival games at multiple festivals.
This post, however, is all about the big day at the end of October: Halloween. If you’re into costumes, candy, and family-friendly-frights, here’s the list of Halloween-themed events you’re looking for. And if you’re still in need of a costume, we’ve got you covered with affordable last-minute ideas.
Trick or Treat Events
Boo Hole in Wimberley:Saturday, Oct 18th, 4-8 pm at Blue Hole Park. Trick or treat trail, games, costume contest, and food trucks. FREE
Trick or Treat at the Springs Family Y: Wed, Oct 23rd from 9-11 am OR 4-6 pm. Registration required (click the link). FREE, recommended for younger children.
Boo-da Halloween in Buda: Saturday, Oct 26th, 4:30-7:30 pm at Buda City Park. Trick or treating, costume contests, story time, games, and food trucks. FREE
Evo Cinemas in Belterra: Check showtimes for the new Beetlejuice, as well as Halloween classics like Hocus Pocus,The Lost Boys, Hotel Transylvania, and Nightmare Before Christmas.
Haunted House @ Proof and Cooper in Johnson City:Sat Oct 18th & 25th, Sun Oct 19th & 26th. $5 entry fee donated to local volunteer fire department. 13 haunted rooms and horror movie characters, plus haunted cocktail bar. Younger kids can attend from 6-7 pm for a tame version; older kids and adults can test their courage starting at 7:30 pm.
Haunted Trail in Wimberley: Saturdays, Oct 19th and 26th, 8-9:30 pm at Blue Hole Regional Park. $2, advanced registration recommended.
Best Neighborhoods in Drip for Trick or Treating on Halloween
The city of Dripping Springs is known for its small-town charm, neighborly behavior, and generosity. We know that many Drip residents live in rural areas and can’t go trick or treating near home. The large neighborhoods in the area are fun and safe places to spend Halloween. Please remind kids to be respectful when visiting other people’s neighborhoods and that gratitude (not attitude) goes a long way. Here’s our list of the top picks for neighborhood trick or treating:
Belterra
Headwaters
Big Sky
Founders Ridge
Ledgestone
We hope you enjoy the recommendations we make on this website. We don’t copy and paste a list or calendar of everything going on in the area. Not only would that list be overwhelming, but we only want to recommend events or attractions that we ourselves or our friends have personally enjoyed. Please subscribe so that you don’t miss out on the best of the Texas Hill Country!
Fall is on its way! Sometimes I think the ‘a’ in Fall should be changed to the letter ‘u’ because our calendar is so FULL… in the very best way imaginable. There’s just so much to do and so much to love about Fall in the Texas Hill Country.
We’ve already been checking off some of our seasonal to-do list. We decorate for the Fall in September, then add on Halloween for October, and then switch out Halloween decorations for our Thanksgiving tree and decor in November. We already pulled the leaf garland, scarecrows, crafting pumpkins, and wreaths from the attic. These initial decorations stay up for months, and I do the same with Fall activities. We celebrate for 3 whole months and squeeze in as much Fall fun as seemingly possible.
In addition to the Fall decor, I rearrange the kids’ drawer and closets to encourage wearing more plaid, orange, and cute graphic tees. I switch out the candles throughout the house from summery scents to pumpkin vanilla and honey apple. I stock the kitchen with the best fall recipe ingredients, and I even allow my teens to indulge in the sugar-laden, pumpkin-flavored, over-priced coffee drinks when we’re out running errands.
Now, it’s time to tackle our Fall Bucket List with all the places we want to go and things we want to do during this beautiful season of pumpkin patches, cute costumes, cooler temps, colorful leaves, and outdoor adventures. I have my calendar ready as I’m going through this list. Do you?
Texas Hill Country Fall Bucket List (2024)
1. Visit a local farm and pumpkin patch.
Whether you refer to it as a fall festival or a pumpkin patch, the month of October isn’t complete without a visit to one… or many! Thislistincludes the festivals we always try to squeeze in, as well as a couple we haven’t seen … yet.
In addition to this list, there is a new pumpkin patch opportunity at The Therapy Xploriment. They’re hosting their first annual Pumpkin Patch and Pediatric Resource Fair! They’ll have special activities and games all day for the whole family, starting October 4th to November 17th, every weekend (Fri-Sun) from 11am- 7pm. $5-$8/person.
2. Dance in the streets at a local music festival.
Songwriters’ Festival in Dripping Springs: Take in the best local talent on multiple stages, while also enjoying music, food, friendly people, and adorable downtown shops on the weekend of Oct 18th-20th. In my opinion, the highlight of the weekend is the Gospel Brunch on Sunday morning at Hudson’s on Mercer. You can attend the showcases for FREE!
Wimberley Music Fest: On Saturday October 12th from 2 – 9:00 pm, join over 3,000 Texas Music Enthusiasts to welcome hometown music sensations, followed by a Gospel Fest on Sunday, Oct 13th from 1 pm – 6 pm.
3. Wear your fave lederhosen or dirndl to Oktoberfest.
Enjoy German food and brews, live music, games, and competitions. Probst!
WurstFest in New Braunfels: Nov 1-10, 2024 (FREE days: Nov 4-7 after 5 pm, Nov 10 after 3 pm … Must purchase tickets for other days/times.)
4. Get inspired and pick out some Fall decor.
Wildseed Farms: This isn’t only one of our favorite places to shop; it also has fun Fall events. The Fall Festival is coming up on Sept 14th and will include live music, pumpkin patch, kid activities, and wine tasting. Spend time wandering the wildflower trails and butterfly garden also. On Oct 5th, the Monarch Celebration will encourage you to celebrate butterflies and watch them take flight.
Home Depot: Your local Home Depot offers unique woodworking projects for kids on the first Saturday of the month (and the Sat after Thanksgiving). Check with your local store because some require advanced registration. With the project, you can also collect the patch, certificate, and token HD orange apron if you don’t have one yet. Home Depot also has an amazing selection of Halloween/Fall decor or you can pull up some of your pins on Pinterest and collect the materials needed for those DIY projects you’ve saved. Upcoming Kids’ Workshop projects include:
September 7th, 2024: Field Goal Game
October 5th, 2024: Fire Rescue Truck
November 2nd, 2024: Pumpkin Tic-Tac-Toe
November 30th, 2024: Cocoa Ornament
Market Days: Most small towns host a monthly market with local wares, artwork, home decor, food, wine, and so much more. The festivities often include live music and other activities to keep the whole family engaged. Our favorites are the Old Gruene Market Daysand Wimberley Market.
5. Give yourself a little fright.
Blue Hole Haunted Trail: On Saturdays from Oct 12-26, 8-9;30 pm, take an evening stroll… with a twist. Brace yourself for an immersive experience filled with eerie encounters, ghastly surprises, and the rustle of unseen creatures lurking in the shadows, featuring local theater department actors! Only $2 per person. Check out the FREE family festival, BOO Hole Halloween Festival, on the afternoon of Oct 19th at Blue Hole Regional Park as well.
Dripping Springs Haunted House: This experience begins with a hayride and ends with screams. The non-profit organization, supporting Burke Center for Youth, uses young local actors to provide a haunted movie-like production at the Dripping Springs Ranch Park from Oct 4th – Oct 26th.
Pumpkin Nights: Venture out to Pioneer Farms after dark, where a dimly-lit walking path will escort you through fantastical lands and lead you to a festival with expert pumpkin-carvers, music, unique decorations, games, and food. Buy tickets in advance. Open from mid-September until the end of October. During the daytime hours, this living history farm offers guided tours and classes, such as blacksmithing and Texas swing dancing. Visit a Tonkawa Indian Encampment, a German Emigrant Farm, a Texian Farm, a Cotton Planter’s Farm and a rural village called Sprinkle Corner all in one day.
6. Go on a guided hike.
Most of the state parks, as well as other municipal parks, in the area offer day and night hikes during this time of year to learn about night crawlers, nocturnal animals, stars, and geological history. Check out the many events and programs offered at the state parks and/or register for the unique ones we listed here.
Bird and UV Night Walkat McKinney Falls State Park on Sunday, Sept 22nd (FREE with park admission but must RSVP)
Guided Summit Hike at Enchanted Rock in Fredericksburg offered on multiple dates (Get a day pass online in advance.)
7. Peep some leaves. (Yes, even in Texas!)
We may be one of the last states in the nation to see the leaves change colors, but it does happen! There are a few locations where you can peep those beautiful brown, red, yellow, and burgundy leaves. Our favorite spots are Garner State Park and Lost Maples State Park, but even here in Dripping Springs, we get a little taste of what New England goes gaga over every Fall. This articleshares additional places in Texas to peep some leaves.
8. Cheer under the Friday night lights.
Most Texans associate Fall with football. I’m sure you have a favorite college and NFL team, but the real (and affordable) fun is at the high school games! Every Friday night, there’s an opportunity to cheer on local students, fill your belly with burgers and popcorn, and enjoy entertaining marching band shows as well as dance performances. Here’s a list of all HS football schedules within the area!
Last but definitely NOT least… There’s one final attraction worthy of this bucket list yet too unique to fit in the above categories: it’s Fortlandia at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center! We can’t wait to see the new forts in this highly-anticipated seasonal exhibit. This is a great time to upgrade your admission to a membership for the next 12 months because your kids will absolutely want to return again and again. The forts will be on display from Oct 4th – Feb 2nd.
There’s so much to do in our beautiful part of Texas, and there’s a short window to do it in. I could Fall hard all year long, but hopefully we can make quite a dent in this list before Thanksgiving.
Let us know which events or attractions are your favorites, and be sure to subscribe to this blog so you can maximize your fun and family memories in the Texas Hill Country.
Whether you refer to it as a fall festival or a pumpkin patch, the month of October isn’t complete without a visit to one… or many!
Is it even Fall if you haven’t taken super cute photos surrounded by pumpkins and funny signs; dirtied your shoes with dust, hay, and dried corn in a big pit; gotten lost in a winding maze; fed some farm animals; sipped sweet tea; and watched your kids bounce, ride, and run to their hearts’ content?
This list includes the festivals we always try to squeeze in, as well as a couple we haven’t seen … yet.
The beloved Dripping Springs Pumpkin Festival has moved to Uhland. I’m sure it’ll be worth the drive because the founders always brought more and more family fun each year they were open in Dripping Springs. Now they have more parking and more acreage.
Enjoy lawn games, a pumpkin patch, food trucks, live music, animal visits, photo opps, and beautiful picnic spots under the oaks. Admission price is a flat $15 per person if you purchase online before Sept 26 (65+ and 0-3 are free). Open weekends Sept 27 – Nov 2.
Located in Georgetown, TX, this farm is loaded with the typical fall festival activities, such as a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and petting zoo, but it also has a few unique options. We can’t wait to take another spin on a pedal cart; shoot an apple from a slingshot; climb up a tire hill, then slide down; watch pig-racing; wade in the San Gabriel River; play corn hole, gaga ball, kickball, or tug o’ war; and challenge ourselves on the obstacle course. Prices vary by date, but there’s a 40% discount if you purchase online in advance Open daily Sept 20 – Nov 7.
You can find this farm and pumpkin patch near Austin in Manchaca, TX. Fall festival activities include a pumpkin patch, fall-themed photo-ops, exotic animals, authentic Native American tipi, kids’ swings and playground, kids’ spider web, face painting (only open Saturday & Sunday), jumping pillow (only open Saturday & Sunday), and food vendors. Go on a Thursday or Friday for $13 admission. Sat and Sun visits cost $19/person. Festival runs Sept 27 – Nov 2.
The short drive to Marble Falls is worth it to spend the day on this cute farm with hayrides, two mazes, a huge pumpkin patch with adorable photo opps, face painting, goat-feeding, barrel train rides, scarecrow-stuffing, a funny hayride, and horseback riding (on weekends only). Admission is free, but activities are charged individually. We usually spend about $15/person. Open daily except Wednesdays beginning in mid-September.
In the beautiful and fun city of Fredericksburg, $14 admission cost gets you a challenging corn maze; a jump pad pass; wagon ride; flower field, peach mountain, and pumpkin patch access; several games, and more. We’ve never been, but we’re excited to check out Jenshke this year. Opening mid-September.
$10 admission gets you free games, photo ops, thousands of pumpkins to enjoy, a bouncy house and pad, corn pit, and live music, as well as access to food vendors, professional photographers, and face painting for extra $$. Open daily except Tuesdays Oct 3 – 31.
We hope you enjoy your pumpkin patch visits this Fall. Subscribe to this blog to receive our 2024 Fall Bucket List (coming soon) that includes several other fun ideas for the beloved season ahead, as well as weekly posts about the best of the Texas Hill Country!
Challenge your Family to Climb to the Top of Wimberley, TX
In our mission to spend 1000 hours outside as a family every year, we’re sharing some of our favorite hiking spots in this series titled “This Week’s Hike”. Old Baldy is our latest pick.
✅ Trails for Children
❌ Swimming (during summer only and when water levels are normal)
❌ Bathrooms
❌ Playground and Open Fields
✅ Free Admission for Park and Trails (and free parking)
❌ Stroller-friendly Trails
❌ Reservations needed
Old Baldy is more of a tourist attraction than a hike, but it’s a fun challenge that you can add on to your next visit to Wimberley.
We’re excited to share what we love about the hike to the top of Old Baldy in Wimberley, TX!
Short but Challenging Hike
The trail is really a climb, and it can be rigorous. However, all of our children, even down to toddler age, made it up the steps to the top. There are well over 100 stairs to climb, so this is not an accessible or stroller-friendly hike, but you’ll find benches and flat landings to take breaks as needed. It will definitely feel like a work out all the way up!
If you want to add on more of a walk, go down and up Old Baldy a second time or walk the short loop in the neighborhood around the park.
The View
Not only will you get the reward of satisfaction and an increased heart rate as you climb Old Baldy, you’ll also get spectacular 360 degree views of Wimberley and the Texas Hill Country.
Picnic Spot
The top of the hill is an excellent spot for a picnic, plus bird- and butterfly- watching. Add on a cooler backpack for a more strenuous hike and a romantic or fun family picnic afterward.
Easy Parking and Access
Google Maps will take you directly to the entrance. You’ll drive through a small neighborhood to get to the limited parking lot. You must park in the parking lot and not in front of residents’ homes. Go early or on a weekday to avoid a full lot.
Also, be sure to make time for the adorable and vibrant Wimberley Square. You can stroll for hours to enjoy drinks, bites, shopping, artwork, and live music.
We also highly recommend taking in a sensational sunset at Shady Llama on Highway 12. Relax in hammocks, taste a few local beers, order snacks from the food truck, and let the kids challenge themselves on the natural obstacle courses. If you’re really lucky, you might spot the llamas that live on the land.
We never get tired of spending the day in Wimberley with its many beautiful hiking spots, cool swimming holes, unique shops, and lively restaurants, no matter the season. It’s great to know that there are options for outdoor exploring year-round.
For other family hike recommendations in the Texas Hill Country, check out our page, This Week’s Hike.
Follow @dripping_with_kids on Instagram or this blog so you don’t miss out on the best places to go in the Texas Hill Country!
Check out these unique and budget-friendly options for a birthday in Dripping Springs, TX
As much as I don’t want to admit it, I’ve thrown some big (and expensive) birthday parties for my kids. I told my older ones that the birthday party cut-off age was 10, but they seem to continue for years after that anyway. The number of attendees gets smaller, but the activities get more expensive. It can be difficult to come up with new, creative options and try to stay within a budget for birthday parties.
After researching and planning multiple parties over the years for my four children and helping with others, I’ve created a list of locations that would be fabulous and somewhat affordable options for a birthday party in Dripping Springs, Texas (or nearby in the Hill Country). These are listed in no particular order, and a few are marked with an * because they are on the more expensive side.
*Costs MORE than $15/child
We hope you can find your next birthday party location and ideas from this list.
La Paloma Dining and Events – Call or email to reserve tables. The party-goers can munch on chips and queso, play mini golf, build sand castles, swing to their hearts’ content, and practice skits on stage.
Hat Creek – Reserve tables in advance. No extra charge for a party. Just order food and enjoy the playground.
Verde’s Mexican Parilla – Make a reservation for patio tables. Let kids play out back in the field and on the playground, while enjoying a casual dinner together on the covered patio.
Private Pool through Swimply – Use someone’s beautiful pool and backyard to throw an epic swim party. Price usually includes up to 20 guests.
Birthday Party Locations NEAR Dripping Springs
Camp Ben for Fishing and Water Play – Snag some tables or an open pavilion for free. Bring fishing nets and poles (for catch and release).
Bee Cave Central Park – First come, first served on shaded tables. There are 2 playground areas to choose from and basketball courts as well.
*Hill Country Indoor – Full service parties with rock climbing, indoor play area, and sports.
*Urban Air – It isn’t cheap, but it’ll reduce your work load and wear the kids out.
*Austin Zoo – Tour the zoo and then celebrate in a private party area.
*High Five – Several birthday options, including axe throwing, bowling, laser tag, and arcade
Shady Llama – Scroll down on linked site to see party guidelines. There are 2 cute playgrounds, hammocks, and lawn games for the kids.
VFW Bingo in Wimberley – Just show up at 6:30 pm and grab a table for your group. Buy cards and concessions for each person. No outside food allowed but BYOB. Kids can win $$ too.
Cypress Falls Wimberley – Bring your own tubes and a birthday picnic. Outside food is allowed but not alcohol (bar onsite). Pay for each person and sign a waiver.
Cidercade – Reserve tables in advance and let kids play video games to their hearts’ content.
Birthday Party Locations in The Hill Country
Putters and Gutters (Marble Falls) – Bowling and mini golf at an affordable price
Sweet Berry Farm (Marble Falls) – Book online. Choose which activities you want to include for your party. Shaded picnic tables are plentiful and free, and you can bring in all your own food.
LBJ State Park (Johnson City) – Free entry and outside food allowed. Call ahead to schedule a farm tour. Snag picnic tables behind the farm before tour starts.
Children’s Park (San Marcos) – This is one of the cutest parks in Texas. Go early to set up at one of the few picnic tables. Add on a cold swim or fishing in the river at Rio Vista Park next door.
*Animal World and Snake Farm (San Marcos) – Book in advance, especially in the spring. You can do a self-guided tour to see all of the animals, then add on gem mining and animal encounters for your group.
Landa Park (New Braunfels) – This park has it all: mini train, mini golf, multiple playgrounds, and a water park (summer only).
McKenna Children’s Museum (New Braunfels) – This is a great, affordable option mostly for children 7 and under. They could play here all day.
*Johnson City Science Mill – Reach out in advance to plan activities and reserve private room for your group.
Did I miss anything? Share with us your favorite birthday party location thus far and any others we may have left off the list. If you’re looking for additional restaurant ideas to host a gathering during the HOT summer and fall months, check out this list.
Experience the simplicity of nature on this flat, easy hike in Driftwood, close to Dripping Springs.
✅ Trails for Children
❌ Swimming
✅ Bathrooms (port-a-potties)
❌ Playground and Sports Fields
✅ Free Admission for Park and Trails (and free parking)
✅ Stroller-friendly Trails
❌ Reservations needed
Beautiful Sunsets
Charro Ranch Park is tucked away off of FM 150 near the heart of Dripping Springs, but it’s rarely busy and allows you to escape into the beauty and simplicity of nature.
Charro Ranch Park is located at 22690 W. FM 150. The 64-acre park was donated to the City of Dripping Springs by Lucy Reed Hibberd in December of 2008 after being in her family for about 50 years. Mrs. Hibberd developed trails, created areas for reflection, and installed signs identifying tree species in order to create a natural setting for passive activities for the community of Dripping Springs to enjoy nature. (website)
The park is free, and gates are open from 5 am to 11 pm.
Easy Trails for Hikers and Bikers
Charro Ranch Park Trail Map
Whether hiking with tiny tots, older kids, or adults, these trails are a great choice! You can take a short hike with a stroller making several stops to check out all of the flora and fauna or you can ride bikes with older kids through the narrower outer trails.
Most trails are dirt or mulch paths and can get narrow in some areas with high grass on either side. They range in distance from .13 of a mile to 1.23 miles, but they’re all connected so you can make your hike as short or as long as you’d like.
Free Parking at Trailhead
Parking lot at entrance
Google Maps will take you directly to the entrance. You can park for free in the small parking lot. Then, you can choose a trail just steps away from your car. It can become a bit of a labyrinth as your start out, so be sure to have a picture of the trails and their names from the board at the trailhead. Trails are marked by pictographs along the paths.
Interesting Sights and Pavilion
There are a few stops along the trails that allow you to interact with what other nature-lovers have built, such as a human sundial and wooden bridge.
There is also a small pavilion for picnicking and bird-watching. It’s close to the parking lot, so you can leave your food and drinks in the car instead of hauling them with you on the trails.
Charro Ranch Park is a great stop for a no-frills, easy hike right on the border of Dripping Springs and Driftwood.
Let us know what you think after you visit! For other family hike recommendations in the Texas Hill Country, check out our page, This Week’s Hike.
Follow @dripping_with_kids on Instagram or this blog so you don’t miss out on the best places to go in the Texas Hill Country! We’d love to hear about your favorites as well.
✅ Free Admission for Park and Trails (and free parking)
✅ Stroller-friendly Trails
❌ Reservations or Tickets needed
If you’re looking for a short and easy hike that ends with a jump into the water and lounging in the grass, Commons Ford is the place for you and your family. It’s rarely crowded on weekdays and provides the perfect opportunity to spend the day outside. It’s a great place for boating, paddle-boarding, kayaking, fishing, tree-climbing, and playing volleyball too.
The 215 acres allows for several areas to explore and wander, but this post will focus primarily on the trail that leads to the water and picnic area (“lawn”). We’re excited to share what we love about Commons Ford Ranch located at 614 Commons Ford Ranch Rd on the west side of Austin, TX!
Trail Options for All Levels
As mentioned, there are several hiking trails in this large stretch of park land. The trails closer to the water are flat and child-friendly. There are great opportunities for wildflower scavenger hunts and bird-watching along these trails, including signs that inform you on the species you might encounter. We like to take the forks in the trails to see new sights each time we go, with the ultimate goal of ending up at the water’s edge.
Most or these trails are dirt paths and can be a little rocky. It’s possible to push a stroller or pull a wagon, but there will be some uneven terrain that may require lifting or maneuvering around the dips and obstacles.
There are additional trails that lead uphill away from the water. They offer beautiful views and other opportunities for wildlife-viewing, as well as a more significant work out. These trails are more rigorous and not stroller-friendly.
Easy Parking and Access
First parking option on left side of main road with access to picnic area trail across the street or uphill rocky trail in front of the cars
Google Maps will take you directly to the park entrance. You can park for free in the parking areas near the trailheads. The location where we often park only has a handful of spots directly off the main park road. Parallel parking is also an option, as well as additional small parking areas as you drive further into the park.
Trailhead to Picnic Area/Lawn
The trailheads are easily accessible from the main road, and bathrooms are available at the back of the picnic/swimming area as well as near the barn. I recommend having the trail map saved on your phone to find restrooms and landmarks as you venture out onto the other trails.
Interesting Sights
This park is also an historic site. The land was originally settled in 1838 by a man named Dick Preece, who later joined the Texas Rangers. He continued to acquire land in the area and began ranching.
Preece moved off the property at the end of the 19th century, during which it became a popular tourist attraction luring Austinites by steam ships daily to visit and take a dip in the “medicinal waters”.
In the early twentieth century, the land became Resaca Ranch, a working cattle ranch that was sold to the city for the purpose of waterfront park land in 1983.
Today, while visiting Commons Ford, you can see some of the buildings that remain from Resaca Ranch, including a barn, a ranch house, and the caretaker’s house.*
Large Grassy Picnic Area
The hike we usually take leads us right to the wide-open picnic area along the water, labeled “lawn” on the park map. It has a low-grade hill, access to more trails, a volleyball net, some shade, a dock, lots of open grassland, and of course, river access. Bring your own picnic blanket, food, balls, and water toys, as well as plenty of drinking water.
Swimming!
One of the spots to access the water is a wooden boat dock. Keep in mind that this main swimming area on the Colorado River is shared with boats and can be subject to wake. Kids need to be strong swimmers and have life jackets or tubes when in the water.
There is another spot for wading and muddy play in the same picnic area. It’s a shallow inlet that gets deeper as you near the main river. This spot is better for weaker swimmers and smaller children, but keep in mind that there will be natural debris and tree branches or roots in the water.
Commons Ford is in a great location. While it’s tucked back behind residential areas, it’s also very close to a gas station and an Italian restaurant, Patrizi’s. Laura’s Library is also nearby, along with all the other restaurants and shopping options along RM- 2244.
We hope you enjoy Commons Ford Ranch as much as we do! Let us know what you think after you visit. For other family hike recommendations in the Texas Hill Country, check out our page, This Week’s Hike.
Follow @dripping_with_kids on Instagram or subscribe to this blog so you don’t miss out on the best places to go in the Texas Hill Country!
Inspired by the LBJ Ranch and National Historical Park in Stonewall, TX
I wrote much of the piece below 4 years ago. Now in 2024, we find ourselves caught in another election season, and it seems not much has changed. In fact, the divisiveness and anger may have heightened since 2020.
My older two children are 13 and 10, one in 8th grade and the other in 5th. At our dinner table, there is often an accusation of a crush, followed by “no way” and reasons why that person would never be the object of my child’s affection. Other times, I hear comments about something ridiculous a classmate did or said at school, accompanied by giggles, or I witness my precious children mocking one another.
My kids love to talk about people but not always in a kind way, and no matter how often we adults in the room try to steer the discussion toward big ideas, plans, or life lessons, the conversation reverts back to the gossip du jour or mere mockery.
The discussions held during election season aren’t much better than the childish banter at my dinner table, except that the adults are the ones engaging, rather than stifling, the rude repartee. When I read comments online, listen to a debate on a podcast, or hear the talking points on the news, the issues examined are rarely policy initiatives but rather personal insults about candidates. It seems that we have become a nation that talks about people, often in an unkind way, rather than one that shares ideas and implements them for the good of our country.
Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”
Based on what’s portrayed on the internet and TV, we are a nation of small minds. It’s as if we’ve lost sight of who God created us to be. We are here to build His kingdom, to share the good news, to live by the fruit of the Spirit, and to love first. These are not expectations that can be held for all people, but it’s a standard I would like to uphold for myself, my family, and those who step up to lead communities and a nation.
This is no easy feat. Passing judgment is a common human trait, and gossip flows easily from most mouths. Angry or hateful messages are rewarded with engagement, clicks, and likes. Emotions are held in higher regard than logical thinking, and strong opinions are more interesting than facts. The nature of our society can be ugly and unkind, focused heavily on how other people behave.
So, how do we change course? How do we choose a different path than the masses who have infiltrated social media, the city’s streets, and news outlets with angry words about people who are also loved by God?
Fortunately, I know a place where I can look for answers. Ephesians 4:29 (NIV) provides us with this lesson:
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
This verse is often repeated and now written in many places in our house. We remind our children of this instruction often when the dinner table discussion veers off course. My prayer for myself, my children, and our nation is that we can use our words to build others up, share ideas, and respect each other, rather than continue to tear down the nation and the people our Father created. Maybe if each of us holds Ephesians 4:29 close to our hearts and draws it from memory on a daily basis, our next election season can reflect the great minds the Lord gave us.
This week’s devotional is inspired by the LBJ Ranch, Texas White House, and LBJ Airport in Stonewall. They are part of a driving tour, which includes a few stops to visit actual sites where President Johnson and other members of government, including President Truman, met to discuss the future of our nation. Many people have strong opinions about LBJ’s presidency, and while I accept and understand those points of view, I think more about the ideas that were discussed and the reasons behind them. I imagine the critical debates held after our nation was rocked by an assassination that left many Americans grieving and sharing theories (for decades) about what happened. I wonder what the chats were like on the porches and behind closed doors at the Texas White House and in what manner they spoke to each other. I also think about how far we’ve strayed from the intent of our founding fathers and whether we’ve ever *truly* been one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Can we ever return to civil political discourse and move away from the online forums with angry, anonymous, amateur analysts? Looking back may be our only way to look forward.
Zoo or Garden Membership? Pogo or City Pass? Theme Park Season Pass? We help you decide.
Several years ago, I was invited to write an article for the Houston Zoo website and newsletter as the Member of the Month. I’ve never been more excited to work for free! When we lived in Houston, we visited the zoo very often, even just for a quick pizza dinner next to the giraffes. Here is an excerpt from my article:
My family has had a membership at the zoo for about 7 years. In the first couple years, I pushed a single stroller with my eager and curious daughter, planning each visit around her favorite animals: the elephants, sea lions, and big cats. Soon enough, I was cruising around the zoo with a double jogger, making sure that each visit included a carousel ride, a trip to the playground, many animal sightings, a crawl (or two or three or thirty) through the tunnel in the Natural Encounters house, and a stroll past the monkeeeeeys for my son.
Now, we go as a family of five with two big kids leading the way and another eager and curious daughter in the single stroller. We never miss the African Forest, which houses my favorite animals, the majestic giraffes. Plus, my husband insists on going through the bug house, despite the terrifying cockroaches, because he was one of the engineers for that exhibit. We all challenge ourselves to see if we can make it to every corner of the zoo. We don’t want to miss anything!
After submitting that article, not only did we add an additional zoo-lover to our family, but it hit me that the zoo truly was one of our family’s happy places, and we vowed to visit zoos all over the country whenever we travel together.
However, zoo admissions continue to increase in cost, and many of them have added extra experiences at prices that will take a big bite into the budget.
There’s good news, though — a zoo membership can make a huge difference! Once we discovered the added benefits of a zoo membership, we took advantage of it as we traveled and as we planned get-togethers with family and friends. It really saved us a lot!
So, we decided to do a cost-benefit analysis of membership and family pass offerings to help decide which one(s) give a family the most bang for its buck. Is the zoo membership the only one that’s worth its weight in gold for a young family? We had to find out.
The four options listed below seem to be the most common, at least in our area, and we’ve tried all of them. Continue reading until the end, though, for our reviews on other memberships and passes.
Membership Options
What is Reciprocal Membership?
Paying for one zoo membership not only gets you in for free at that specific zoo for an entire year, but it also gets you in free or 50% off admission to dozens of other zoos and aquariums across the country. Check out this site to see which zoos and aquariums are included. Make sure your home zoo (or the one at which you buy a membership) participates.
In a two-year span, my family visited the Cameron Park Zoo three times, Houston Zoo at least three times, Fort Worth Zoo, Oakland Zoo, Dallas Zoo, and San Antonio Zoo. Because of our membership benefits, we saved over $400 on zoo visits while traveling, in addition to the savings we were able to pass along to friends through free day passes and inviting them as our guests.
With most botanical garden memberships, you get free access to other gardens in the American Horticultural Society network. You just show your membership pass at the admission gate of the participating garden. However, if you’re planning to bring the whole family, and you have more than 2 children, reach out to the botanical garden you intend to visit in advance. They may have restrictions on how many children are included with your reciprocal admission.
We recently purchased a family membership for the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, and since our purchase a few months ago, we’ve visited the Dallas Arboretum and Zilker Botanical Garden for free, saving us over $50, not to mention the $100 we saved from visiting the wildflower center with friends where we hold the membership.
The City Pass and Pogo Pass do not offer reciprocal privileges. You must use your pass for specific locations listed.
What about special events or exhibits?
Most zoos and gardens have special events for Halloween (Zoo Boo), the holidays (Zoo Lights), and in the spring or summer (Zoobilee), to which members get free or reduced admission. Many also have free yoga classes, education events for children, opportunities for overnight campouts, and toddler/infant socialization times. Additionally, members often get early access once per month that allows entrance prior to the general public and features specific animal talks or classes. Members also get discounts on carousel or train rides and gift shop purchases.
The City and Pogo Pass usually exclude special events or special exhibits.
Any other benefits?
Your zoo or garden membership can be considered a tax-deductible charitable donation going toward animal and habitat conservation. Saving money on family experiences and taxes too… win-win!
The City Pass and Pogo Pass are not considered charitable donations.
So, Which One is My Best Option?
Well, that depends.
Which attractions are you most likely to visit and how often?
If you think you’ll visit the zoo at least twice and may visit another one while traveling elsewhere, definitely get a zoo membership to the location you’ll go most often. Be sure that it’s a part of the reciprocal membership program. Same for the garden membership.
If you’re not into zoos or gardens but prefer indoor activities and sports games, pick the Pogo Pass and be sure to use a discount code before you purchase the passes. You can usually find them on Groupon, by asking friends, or by searching Google. The discount is often 50%.
Will you be traveling soon and plan to do touristy things?
If you plan to stay in a big city and hit the most popular tourist attractions, the City Pass or Go City Pass is likely your best bet, UNLESS you’re willing to brave the crowds and schedule your visits around the free or discounted days. Many attractions, especially if they receive tax dollars or donations as part of their operating income, offer a free day each week or month with limited hours. Many theme parks and water parks offer discounts for specific days or hours as well. For example, several water parks reduce their price if you go after 5 pm. These free or discount day options will require advanced research and planning for specific attractions.
If you visit a location often and/or like to experience the less crowded play places with your family, look for a Pogo Pass for that city. Some include multiple cities on the pass and can be used for an entire year. Therefore, you can travel to multiple destinations at different times and get free admission to fun activities. For example, there is a Pogo Pass that combines Waco, San Antonio, and Austin locations. That could be three different vacations with multiple options for each trip and only spending $50 per person (cost of the pass on a discount) for entertainment at all three locations.
Other Passes and Memberships
There are so many additional options for memberships and discounts at attractions and venues, several of which we’ve tried but haven’t consistently used for several reasons. Your family may benefit greatly from them, though.
Gym or YMCA
A YMCA membership can be great to have year-round if you plan to enroll your children in the youth programs, camps, or sports and if you enjoy working out at their gyms. The membership can be especially beneficial in the summer because you can take your kids to several different pools throughout the city and even squeeze in a workout while they’re in child watch. We have definitely gotten great value out of a YMCA membership during the summer months.
Occasionally, gyms will run a special promotion that waives the enrollment fee, which really makes the monthly cost worth it. Currently, YMCA of Austin is offering a 7-day trial membership, and Crunch Gym is South Austin is offering an entire month free, plus no enrollment fee. Crunch has babysitting available but no children’s camps/sports or a pool to offer.
DWK Recommendation: Sign up for emails from whichever gym or YMCA you’re most interested in so you can be in the know on specials they run on memberships and when they offer free community days or classes. Often, the YMCA will host community swim days or festivals (membership not required). Just ask to be added to the email list or sign up for a trial membership to get your name in the system.
Museums
We did not include memberships to museums in the list above because we have not found them to be economical choices for our family. However, if you have a museum that your children love to frequent, it may be worth it for your own family.
The memberships usually only include the permanent exhibits, which do not change, and can be a bit tedious for my kids to visit often. Also, while the reciprocal membership option (NARM) offers discounts or free admission to other museums when you travel, there is often a restriction that prevents you from using your reciprocal membership at other participating museums within a 15-mile radius of the institution where you hold your membership. That means that we’d have to pay for admission to the other local museums since most museums are close to each other within a “museum district”.
DWK Recommendation: Just about every museum offers free days weekly or monthly. Otherwise, you can sometimes find discounts available on Groupon or through City Passes. So if there’s a museum we really want to visit, we check out their website to find out which days they offer free admission or search for other discounts online.
Theme Parks and Water Parks
Any theme park or water park offers a season pass, and usually there are multiple levels to choose from. We’ve held Six Flags season passes in the past, and while we saved quite a bit from using it that year, it’s not a place we go to often enough to make it worth it every year. So, again, this is dependent on each family’s interest and ages of their children. We’ve made exceptions and found the season pass to be worthwhile, though, when we planned a birthday party at Six Flags. We brought three extra girls to the theme park, and with the benefits that were offered at the time (significant discounts for season pass holder’s guests) and the free parking, we saved more than we spent on the pass for my daughter. It seems the best time to buy a season pass for most of these attractions is during April or May, prior to the busy summer season, or during holiday promotions that will give you admission for the rest of that year and the year that follows.
DWK Recommendation: If you know your family will visit the theme park multiple times, it’s definitely worth buying the season pass. Otherwise, if we want to go to a theme park, we just look for discounted days or promotions to take advantage of.
Local Pool Pass
Most public pools offer a summer season pass with unlimited admission. They can cost anywhere from $125 – $300 for a family. We bought one when we lived in Houston for a neighborhood pool that we knew several friends would visit often. It was an easy and fun way to spend several summer afternoons, especially since we knew we’d see friends at the pool no matter what day we went.
In Dripping Springs, we found the Springs Family YMCA pool to be the spot where we’d often bump into friends. However, the local city pool was hit or miss, so we have to plan in advance to meet up with friends there. It hasn’t been often enough for us to splurge on a season pass, though, and the city pool doesn’t offer additional benefits such as classes, childcare, the gym, and camp options.
Also, there are so many wonderful, free or affordable pools and splash pads, river access spots, lakes, neighborhood pools where friends live, and friends’ backyard pools that I don’t think we could even get to every single one of them in a summer. Likely, you won’t be able to either.
DWK Recommendation:If your family will be home for several days in the summer and will want to swim in a familiar place with lifeguards, a YMCA membership is a good option. If you happen to prefer the neighborhood or city pool, I would just do a cost analysis and determine how many visits it would require before reaching the total cost of the summer pass. Otherwise, just bounce around and enjoy the variety of swimming options in your area.
With a plethora of passes to choose from, you could potentially end up with too many memberships to take advantage of in a year. We hope this analysis helps you decide where to spend your money in the hopes of saving more in the long run. As always, please feel free to comment and share what works best for your family.
