The Ultimate Guide to Barton Springs With Kids: Your Family Adventure in Austin
If you’re wondering how to do Barton Springs with kids for a fun and safe family day out in Austin, you’ve come to the right place.
Updated for 2025!
Why Visit Barton Springs With Kids?
Barton Springs isn’t just any pool—it’s a natural, historic oasis in the heart of Austin. With its refreshing, year-round 68°F spring-fed water, it offers families the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and local charm. Whether you’re cooling off on a hot day or exploring the surrounding nature, a visit to Barton Springs with kids guarantees a day full of fun and memorable experiences.
Planning Your Visit: How to Do Barton Springs with Kids
Where is Barton Springs?
Barton Springs is located at 2201 William Barton Drive, Austin, TX 78746.
When to Visit
Understanding how to do Barton Springs with kids involves not only knowing the location but also planning for optimal family fun during the best visiting hours.
Thursday: Closed for cleaning from 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (Early risers can enjoy the pool from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. at their own risk.)
Monday – Wednesday & Friday – Sunday: 5:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Ticket Pricing for Residents and Visitors
Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long lines. Here’s the current pricing:
Austin Residents:
- Adult: $5
- Teen: $3
- Child: $2
- Seniors, Veterans & Children Under 1: Free
Nonresidents:
- Adult: $9
- Teen: $5
- Child: $4
- Senior: $5
(Certain groups and children under 1 may be free—check the latest guidelines for details.)
Family Pool Rules: What You Need to Know
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone, please observe the following pool rules:
- No Coolers, Glass, or Alcohol: These items are prohibited to maintain safety and cleanliness.
- Other Forbidden Items: Ice chests, thermal bags, food, pets, frisbees, footballs, soccer balls (or other hard balls), portable speakers, tobacco (smoking of any kind is prohibited), or alcohol.
- Allowed Items: Swimsuits, water shoes, towels, sunscreen, sealed water bottles, inflatable toys and floaties, and your entry ticket or cash/card to pay for entry are welcome.
Expert Tips on How to Do Barton Springs with Kids
Tip #1: Reserve Your Barton Springs Tickets Online for a Hassle-Free Visit
Barton Springs now requires pre-purchased tickets before you visit—and I couldn’t be happier about it! This new online reservation system has truly transformed the experience, cutting down on the long waits of the “Before Times.” We booked our Barton Springs tickets on the same day we planned our trip, printed them out, and headed straight to the gate without a single minute lost in line. It’s such a refreshing change, especially when you’re managing impatient kids on a hot day.
The online reservation system used to be super confusing, but now it’s been completely revamped for ease of use. Not only do you save time by skipping the long lines, but you also enjoy a smoother entry process, which is mega important when visiting Barton Springs with kids, that lets you dive right into the fun. I highly recommend booking your tickets online to make the most of your visit to this iconic Austin landmark.
If you prefer to purchase your tickets on the spot, that option is still available. Cash entries and kiosk purchases are offered at the Zilker Cafe Building, while entry remains at the Main Entrance off Barton Springs Road. Just a heads up: when the bathhouse is closed, cash purchases will continue at the Zilker Cafe, but the pool entry will shift to the west gate.
Tip #2: Parking Made Easy
Parking can get tight during busy times. On weekdays, parking is free. However, during weekends or events, consider parking at nearby Zilker Park (for a small fee, $3 from March to September) and enjoy a short, scenic walk to the pool.
Kids require snacks, and that’s non-negotiable. However, with Barton Springs’ strict no food policy, you have to get creative. What’s a mom to do?! Don’t worry, I have you covered! You can bring sealed water bottles (make sure they have a twist-off lid) to keep everyone hydrated. Plus, ask for a hand stamp at the entrance, which allows you to exit and return without paying again, so you can easily step out to grab a bite.
There are two smart options for satisfying those snack cravings at Barton Springs with children. The first option is to pack a cooler with your favorite snacks and leave it in your car—if you’re lucky enough to score a close parking spot. The second option is to take advantage of the on-site vendors located right outside Barton Springs, where you can purchase food when hunger strikes.
And once you and your littles have worked up an appetite that simply can’t be ignored, be sure to check out my list of nearby, family-friendly restaurants with playgrounds that are perfect for kids.
Tip #4: Safe Fun with Floaties and Zero-Depth Entry
If your little ones still need floaties to help them swim—or if you just want to relax and float around—there are specific guidelines on where they’re allowed. So if you’re visiting Barton Springs with kids, remember that floaties are permitted only in the deep or shallow sections of the pool, and you’ll need to head to either the far right or far left of the diving board area to use them.
We love heading to the far right toward the shallow, zero-depth entry of the pool. Not only is this section perfect for getting in slowly and adjusting to the cool, spring-fed water (which stays at a crisp 68 degrees year-round!), but it’s also a safer spot for younger kids to use floaties. Plus, it’s a great place to wade in and get comfortable with the temperature before fully jumping in.
Remember, though, that Barton Springs is a natural, spring-fed pool, so the algae on the pool floor can get very slippery. It’s common for both kids and adults to slip, so always walk slowly and watch your step! Water shoes are a great idea for added grip and safety.
Tip #5: Explore the Local Wildlife and Critters
Keep your eyes peeled! One of the best parts of visiting Barton Springs with children is that you might catch sight of little fish or even the rare Barton Springs Salamander, so be on the lookout for those little guys! This adds a fun element of nature exploration to your day out.
Tip #6: Soak in the Unique Vibe
One of our favorite things to do at Barton Springs with our family is watch the people flipping and jumping off the diving board. Barton Springs is more than a swim—it’s an experience. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, observe other families having a blast, and take in the quirky local charm (including the occasional free-spirited topless sunbather — you might see a little more than you expected 👀). It’s all part of the magic of Barton Springs!
A Few Extra Trips and Reminders!
Pets are not allowed. It’s free to swim during the early morning, non-lifeguard, open-swim hours each day from 5:00 – 8:00 AM. No alcohol is allowed inside Barton Springs. The free side to Barton Springs, often referred to as Barking Springs since you can bring your dog, is just to the left (if you are facing the pool from outside). You can visit the nearby playground at Zilker Park if your kids want to play some more. And don’t forget about the Zilker Eagle!
More Family Adventures in Austin
If you’re looking to explore more family-friendly adventures in Austin, check out these posts:
- The Ultimate Summer Bucket List for Kids in Austin
- FREE Things To Do With Kids in Austin This Summer
- The Best Water Parks For Families in Austin
- Cool Off in These Austin Splash Pads This Summer
- The Best Thing About Austin Summers: Zilker Summer Musical!
Ready for Your Barton Springs Adventure?
With a bit of planning and these insider tips, your next visit to Barton Springs with kids is sure to be fun, safe, and unforgettable. Remember to reserve your tickets ahead of time, plan your parking, and enjoy the laid-back vibe of this iconic Austin spot.