Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Location: Southwest,
In/Outdoor: Both
Activity level: Varies

Features: The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a botanical garden featuring native plants with an emphasis on protection, conservation, and restoration.

Cost for a family of four: $20 (admission price is $7 for adults, $3 for children age 5-12, free for children 4 and under

Best for ages: 2 and up

The Experience: In spite of the educational emphasis, there is plenty of entertainment for the kids here, especially if they are interested in nature. Right now there is an awesome exhibit in display called David Rogers' Big Bugs (through Nov. 4th). You will find eight large wooden bug sculptures throughout the park. Your kids will get booklets to learn more about each bug and perform little activities like games and seeing how far they can jump at each bug site. If they fill out their booklet, they can trade it in for a prize at the end of their visit. The best statues for us were the ants; you will see them through the window of the visitor gallery or looking off the observation tower. Besides the bugs, there are sixteen different gardens to look at, with name tags identifying all the native plants and trees. There is a Children's Little House (with a little door) located by the restrooms, with art supplies, books, puzzles, aquariums, and a few scientific exhibits. The microscope was especially neat, as the specimen showed up enlarged on a TV screen. Outside, there were some barrels of sand with little plastic snakes and lizards inside that kids could dig in. And there were real snakes in the park as well; we saw two in the pond where the damselfly statue is located. There are four nature trails you can follow in the park. The visitor's gallery and the McDermott Learning Center are air-conditioned, so you can slip in and cool off while you enjoy the exhibits. The observation tower has a great view from the top after you climb the winding staircase. You will find a cafe near the center courtyard with sandwiches, salads, and snacks. There is a nice gift shop which has lots of cute T-shirts, fun bug toys, and beautiful gift items.
Before you go: It gets very hot strolling through the gardens, so you will want to bring water. There are some water coolers located in the park buildings as well. Bring sunscreen, insect repellant, and consider bringing some light snacks for the kids to ward off grumpiness. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the wildflowers; various flowers are in bloom at different times of the year. The park is very popular during bluebonnet season.

How to go cheaper: You can get a year-long membership to the park for free admission, a complimentary magazine subscription, 10% off in the gift shop, and other privileges; the cost is $65 a year for a family membership.

Birthday Parties: There are no birthday party packages, but the center is available for evening rental and is a popular place for weddings. You could also plan a do-it-yourself birthday party, but it would be best for older children.

Accessibility: Most of the trails and all of the buildings are wheelchair-accessible. The observation tower is not accessible.

Fun Factor: 7/10
Yum Factor: N/A
Value Factor: 7/10

The Lowdown: Go now for the Big Bugs exhibit, but prepare your kids for a few hours of thinking, learning, and enjoying natural beauty (no mindless entertainment).

Hours: Tues-Sat 9 am - 5:30 pm, Sun 12 pm - 5:30 pm

Website: http://www.wildflower.org

Address: 4801 La Crosse Avenue, Austin Map: Google Map Phone: 512-292-4100