One of the many reasons I love living in Lakeway is because of the great number of family friendly options for kids here! Growing up in the east coast, you just can’t compare the two. Restaurants here have such great outdoor spaces and playgrounds, as well as fantastic kids menus. Here is my updated favorite family friendly Lakeway restaurants to try with your kids!
Flores.
If you’re feeling in the mood for Mexican, Flores is a great spot. Located in the heart of Lakeway, this restaurant has a wonderful drink menu for adults, plenty of options for kids, and a safe fenced in playground. If you’re looking for a centrally located Lakeway restaurant to grab some great queso or a margarita while the kids can safely play outside, this should be high on your list.
Note: this playground is a bit taller/bigger, so toddlers might have a tougher time navigating it solo.
Mandola’s.
A cute Italian spot with free gelato included in the kids meals? Sign us up! Kids can be a little bananas here without any second glances, especially outside on the turfed, fenced in playscape area. There are great options for pizza, paninis, salads, and pasta here, with some fun favorites for the kids. Since it’s in the Galleria, you can also do some shopping before or after you eat!
Note: this playground is the opposite of Flores in that it’s very simple and small, which makes it less entertaining for older kids.
The League at the Bee Cave Galleria.
This is another great spot with a very well rounded American menu and plenty of great kids options. Though it does not have a playground, it is *right* next to a giant lawn area where kids can run wild. There is often live music here, too. If you have tiny kids, you’ll have to go out there with them while the food is being prepared, but bigger kids could definitely be trusted to hang solo for a little bit right outside the restaurant’s doors.
Note: It gets really crowded, so be prepared for a wait during peak times. There is another location in Lakeway, but that one does not have any area for kids to roam.
Hat Creek.
An Austin favorite, Hat Creek locations are known for their great food, beer, milkshakes, and of course, the playgrounds. Each location has a unique play area, and the Lakeway one is adorable. It is situated also in the heart of Lakeway just like Flores, and the playground seems to entertain kids from toddlers to tweens.
Note: This location can get crowded. If you’re crowd averse or if you have tiny kids that could easily get trampled, I’d go at off peak hours. Another minus – the playground is not covered, which makes it very hot on a summer day.
Angel’s Icehouse.
This is our family’s personal favorite! Though it’s technically in Spicewood, it is RIGHT on the border…so we’re going to include it! Angel’s has *plenty* of space for kids to roam, as well as things for them to do in addition to a playground. A fun patio and string lights makes this spot epically perfect for all ages. They also regularly offer live music and have a very well rounded kids menu.
Note: This place can also get crowded, but it’s pretty spacious so it’s not as painful as some other spots. Their vegetarian menu is not the best, so take note if that’s a need of your family’s.
Frontyard Brewing.
Another spot that’s technically in Spicewood, but another family favorite of ours! This spot has a coveted gaga pit where all the bigger kids go to play. Warning: it can get pretty heated out there because elementary schoolers tend to take things a little too seriously. The property also has tennis courts and green space for kids to play and roam. Their beer is fabulous, and the food truck selection is delicious.
Note: This is another spot that also gets very crowded at peak times, so plan accordingly. A lot of the tables are in the sun, so plan for that on hot days.
Are any of your favorite family friendly lakeway restaurants on the list?