Butler Metro Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Butler Metro Park?
What makes it 93% Kids-Friendly: A fenced Alliance Children’s Garden, splash fountain, grassy picnic zones, and junior-priced mini golf pack the park with play for 3-12s; parents find restrooms on-site but should carry towels and snacks.
Positives:
- Kid-Safe Play Spaces: The fenced Alliance Children’s Garden offers age-sized equipment and secure boundaries.
- Varied Activities: From mini-golf to paddling, the park holds something for every family member.
Challenges:
- Summer Heat: Temperatures can exceed 90°F by midday. Plan water play or shaded breaks.
- Equipment Reservations: Canoes and mini-golf peak on weekends. Book online ahead to guarantee availability.
What is Butler Metro Park?
- A winding urban park along Lady Bird Lake’s south shore, defined by shaded lawns, mature oaks, and panoramic city views
- A city-operated green space integrating a night-illuminated fountain plaza, reflective pond, and paved walking and biking paths
- A diversified recreational corridor hosting the Ann and Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail, the spiraled Doug Sahm Hill, and the Alliance Children’s Garden
What is so special about Butler Metro Park for with kids?
- Secure, fenced play areas with water features for ages 3–12
- Affordable family mini-golf with junior rates
- Canoe rentals for a shared adventure on Lady Bird Lake
- Spacious lawns and shady trees perfect for a relaxing picnic
- Easy access to paths, restrooms, and parking
- Advance reservations help avoid weekend crowds
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A visit of 2–3 hours lets kids play in the garden, try mini-golf, paddle a canoe, and relax with a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Butler Metro Park
Alliance Children’s Garden:
Explore four themed play areas with slides, water features, and rock hills made for kids 3–12.
Tip: Bring a change of clothes and let kids splash at the shallow water area.
Butler Pitch & Putt Mini-Golf:
Play a 9-hole, par-3 course where kids get junior rates and parents can enjoy the beer garden.
Tip: Rent clubs & balls on site and visit Mon–Thu for lower junior rates ($7).
Canoe Rental on Lady Bird Lake:
Rent a canoe that fits 2 adults and 2 small kids and paddle past turtles and ducks.
Tip: Reserve online with Texas Rowing Center in advance and pack life vests for all.
Picnic on the Lawn:
Spread a blanket under mature trees and let kids run on wide grassy areas.
Tip: Arrive early to claim a shady spot and pack easy-to-eat finger foods.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Butler Metro Park
- Arrive Early: Get to the park by 9 AM to enjoy cooler weather, empty picnic spots, and shorter lines.
- Segment Your Visit: Start with the garden (60 min), then mini-golf (45 min), and finish with a canoe ride or picnic.
Reviews of Butler Metro Park
T P
Hidden Gem 💎 Hidden in plain sight! Butler Metro Park is a great place to see the city. Very spacious and hugs the river. Pro Tip: This is a great place to park if you want to go to Terry Blacks, Parmer Event Center, and Long Horn Center. 10/10 Trees 🌳
Shay H.D.
We absolutely love this park. It's great for big and little kids. The only complaint I have is how upsetting it is to see all the trash floating in the ponds and seeing unsupervised kids fishing the area that's 99% turtles. One time we left as it was too upsetting to my 2 yr old grandson to see.
Prince Clarise Perimbie
Chill park to get a great view of downtown Austin skylines. Nice playground spaces for kids and adults.
Destini Spencer
Cool playground with several different play styles. Rock climbing, rope climbing, slides, splash pad etc. cute trails to walk with little docks over the lake. Beautiful scenery.
Mari Almz
Butler Metro Park is such a gem—like a smaller, more kid-focused version of Zilker. The open grassy fields are great for picnics, playing tag, or just relaxing in the shade. The playground (part of the Alliance Children’s Garden) is huge and super creative, with colorful equipment for all ages and a splash pad to beat the Texas heat. It’s in a great spot too—right next to Auditorium Shores and no...
When is the best time to visit Butler Metro Park (Austin, United States)?
In summer, visit early or late to avoid high heat. Pack sunscreen and hats. In spring, watch for bluebonnets along the trail. Fall brings milder temps and colorful foliage.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Mini-golf (2 adults + 2 kids) | USD 60 |
| Canoe rental (1 hr) | USD 25 |
| Picnic snacks | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 105 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Butler Metro Park
Address: 1000 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704, USA
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About Butler Metro Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+1 512-974-670010 BEST nearby Activities
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