I just posted a rather lengthy response to a newcomer's inquiry on our neighborhood listserv, regarding free, family-friendly activities in Austin this summer. I thought I might just as well post it here too, FYI.
These are just two of who-knows-how-many free*, indoor (therefore air-conditioned!) activities that adults can enjoy as much as children would. (*Free admission, but you may have to pay to park if you drive there.)
First, and most obvious to me; if you're in Austin, don't overlook looking over the State Capitol building. It really is an impressive building, even more so on the inside, if you can just overlook the political B.S.
I posted a bit of neighborhood trivia (mentioned elsewhere on this blog); back in 1952, Bill Williamson (aka "Starmaker"), an original Crestview resident and metalsmith, designed and made the 8-foot wide metal star that crowns the inside of the Texas Capitol rotunda. He was paid $150.00 for the Star, and it's still up there..(way up there!)
Bill has a special tile with a big star and the title, "Starmaker", on the Wall of Welcome; I'll attach a picture. But definitely check the website carefully first to save yourself inevitable hassles re: parking, what you can and cannot bring inside, etc. IMPORTANT: They have nice, FREE tours.
Another possibility is the Texas Memorial Museum, located at 2400 Trinity Street, at the edge of the UT campus. It's a Natural History Museum with lots of things to interest all ages; also for free. Again, check the website to plan your visit, so you can find the museum and access public parking if you need it. (The public can't drive through some parts of the U.T. campus without the proper UT parking tag.)
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