Kids & Families at Edge City Austin

A Family-Friendly Gathering: Resources, Activities, and Support at Edge City Austin

Edge City Team

February 24, 2025

At Edge City, we're reimagining how families live and learn together. While most contexts in life are age-segregated, we believe that there is high value in learning across generations and life stages.

Our community strives to be multi-generational: Edge City Austin will be home to toddlers, centenarians, and everyone in between.

Our Approach: Creating Meaningful Moments

Edge City Austin fosters a community where children, parents, and those without kids can engage in meaningful interactions. 

  • For children: We foster creativity through parallel play, guided exploration, and exposure to passionate adults who see them as active participants in learning. 
  • For parents: We eliminate the trade-off between work, creativity, and family life by creating an environment where they feel fully present and supported. 
  • For those without kids: We offer opportunities to connect with and learn from children, bridging generational divides in an increasingly age-segregated world.

Kids Programming: March 2-6

Every afternoon from 3:30pm to 5:00pm at Hotel Magdalena, we'll host dedicated programming for children including:

  • Creative arts and expression through mural and canvas work
  • STEM activities
  • Lego building sessions
  • Collaborative projects that bring our community together
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‍Support for Families

From childcare options to family-friendly spaces and activities, here are resources that make it easier for parents and children to be part of the experience.

Daycare Options (for outside 3-5pm)

While Edge City's primary goal is to integrate family life with creative life rather than provide 24/7 care, we understand the importance of having reliable childcare options. Here are some recommended childcare providers in the Austin area if you're coming in from out of town:

Family-Friendly Places

Restaurants and Cafés

  • Central Market Café: Spacious outdoor seating and kid-friendly menu
  • Hat Creek Burger Company: Casual atmosphere with playground
  • Phil's Ice House: Burgers and playground combo
  • Thundercloud Subs: Quick, casual, kid-friendly
  • Kerbey Lane Café: All-day breakfast and family-friendly atmosphere
  • Easy Tiger: Spacious outdoor seating and activities
  • Cosmic Coffee: Large outdoor space with food trucks

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Other Family-Friendly Spaces

  • Mozart's Coffee Roasters: Lakeside views and ample space
  • Whole Foods Market (Downtown): Roof deck and community spaces
  • Austin Central Library: Kids' section and community areas
  • Little Land Play Gym: Indoor play space and sensory activities

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Local Activities & Excursions

Parks and Nature

  • Zilker Park: Expansive urban park with open lawns, sports fields, and picnic areas
  • Zilker Botanical Garden: Beautiful themed gardens, featuring Japanese gardens and a butterfly trail
  • Butler Park: Features splash pads, gardens, and play areas
  • Zilker Zephyr: A charming miniature train offering fun tours around the park

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Educational and Interactive

  • Thinkery: Children's museum with interactive exhibits featuring science, technology, engineering, and art
  • Austin Nature & Science Center: Engaging exhibits and programs about the natural world
  • Congress Avenue Bridge Bats: Educational and entertaining bat-watching (March - October)

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Sweet Treats and Fun

  • Big Top Candy Shop: Old-fashioned candy store with fun variety
  • Amy's Ice Creams: Playful atmosphere and kid-friendly flavors

Ways to Get Involved

If you believe in multi-generational learning and want to contribute, here are some suggestions to get involved:

  • Share resources with other Edge City parents (e.g., nanny share arrangements, local activity recommendations)
  • Lead a Learning Day session
  • Volunteer to help with kids during community gatherings
  • Join our parent community planning sessions
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If you have any questions about family programming or resources at Edge City Austin, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We're here to support you and your family in whatever way we can to make your experience the best it can be.