If you’re looking for a road trip destination that entertains both kids and parents without long travel times, Round Rock, Texas checks every box. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and engaging outdoor spaces, a family-friendly road trip to Round Rock promises adventure, affordability, and memory-making moments at every turn.
From interactive parks and splash zones to baseball games and historic landmarks, Round Rock is perfect for day trips or weekend getaways—especially when you’re traveling with little ones in tow.
Why Round Rock Is Great for Families
Just 20 miles north of Austin, Round Rock offers big attractions with a small-town feel. You’ll find playgrounds designed for all abilities, wide-open spaces to run and explore, hands-on educational sites, and great food stops kids love. Plus, the city is clean, safe, and full of friendly locals who go out of their way to welcome families.
With sunny weather most of the year and a wide range of free or low-cost activities, Round Rock is an easy choice for your next family road trip in Central Texas.
Top Family Attractions and Parks in Round Rock
1. Play for All Park
This award-winning park is the ultimate destination for kids. With over 50,000 square feet of themed play zones, including a tiny village with stores and roads, zip lines, sensory areas, and forts, Play for All Park is built for fun and inclusivity.
Address: 151 N A.W. Grimes Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78664
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – midnight
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: One of the most inclusive and imaginative playgrounds in Texas
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring plenty of water and sunscreen—this park is big, and kids won’t want to leave anytime soon.
2. Rock’N River Water Park
When the Texas heat kicks in, this seasonal water park delivers hours of entertainment with lazy rivers, water slides, a tipping bucket zone, splash playgrounds, and private cabanas.
Address: 3300 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
Hours: Seasonal (typically May–September), 12 PM – 7 PM
Approx Cost: $8–$12
Famous For: Affordable aquatic fun for all ages
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds and reserve a shaded cabana online in advance.
3. Old Settlers Park
This massive 645-acre park is a family paradise with sports fields, picnic areas, multiple playgrounds, catch-and-release fishing ponds, and wide trails for biking or walking.
Address: 3300 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – midnight
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Spacious parkland with activities for all age groups
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a frisbee or soccer ball—there’s plenty of open space for active games and family fun.
4. Downtown Round Rock
Kids and adults alike will enjoy a walk through historic downtown. You’ll find colorful murals, ice cream shops, casual eateries, and seasonal family events that transform the square into a hub of community fun.
Address: E Main St & N Mays St, Round Rock, TX 78664
Hours: Varies by business
Approx Cost: Free to explore
Famous For: Walkable charm and kid-friendly local shops
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Look out for “Fridays in Downtown” during summer—there’s live music, lawn games, and food trucks.
5. Dell Diamond & Round Rock Express
Baseball becomes a family favorite at Dell Diamond, where you can watch a minor league Round Rock Express game, eat ballpark food, and join in between-inning games or fireworks shows.
Address: 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
Hours: Game days and special events
Approx Cost: $10–$40 per ticket
Famous For: Kid-friendly sports entertainment and affordable tickets
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Choose theme nights like Star Wars Night or Dollar Dog Night for extra fun on a budget.
6. Joanne Land Playground
Located inside Old Settlers Park, this smaller playground offers a peaceful setting with shaded benches, nature views, and safe play equipment for toddlers and younger children.
Address: 1511 E Old Settlers Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78664
Hours: Daily, 6 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Toddler-friendly layout and quiet surroundings
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pack a picnic—this park is perfect for snack breaks and slow-paced family downtime.
7. Brushy Creek Regional Trail
Perfect for families with bikes or strollers, this scenic 7-mile trail winds past parks, playgrounds, and nature areas. It’s ideal for leisurely rides, creekside walks, or wildlife watching.
Access Point: Creekside Plaza Trailhead, Round Rock
Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Family-friendly trail adventures and nature exposure
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring bug spray in warmer months and stop for photos on the pedestrian bridge for great views.
Where to Eat with Kids in Round Rock
1. Round Rock Donuts
No family road trip is complete without these legendary orange-hued donuts, including a Texas-sized version bigger than your face. Kids love the sweet treat; parents love the nostalgia.
Address: 106 W Liberty Ave, Round Rock, TX 78664
Hours: Daily, 4 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $1–$10
Famous For: Giant donuts and local charm
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Buy a dozen to-go—they’re perfect for the drive home or sharing back at the hotel.
2. Hat Creek Burger Company
This family-friendly restaurant features a kids’ play area, classic burgers, milkshakes, and outdoor seating. It’s casual, fast, and perfect for fidgety little ones.
Address: 3700 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $8–$15
Famous For: Play area and quick family meals
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Go during off-hours for shorter waits and more space in the play zone.
3. Gino’s Italian Restaurant
For something a bit cozier, Gino’s offers pizzas, pastas, and a welcoming environment where kids are treated like family.
Address: 1701 S Mays St, Round Rock, TX 78664
Hours: Tue–Sun, 11 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Family-style Italian dishes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great for dinner after a day at Dell Diamond or Old Settlers Park.
Best Family Accommodations in Round Rock
1. Home2 Suites by Hilton
This all-suite hotel is designed with families in mind—kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and plenty of space for everyone.
Address: 1000 Louis Henna Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78664
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $110–$150/night
Famous For: Spacious suites and family comfort
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Request a ground-floor suite for easy access when managing kids and gear.
2. SpringHill Suites by Marriott
Bright, clean, and centrally located, this hotel offers free breakfast, an indoor pool, and separate sleeping areas, ideal for larger families.
Address: 2960 Hoppe Trl, Round Rock, TX 78681
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $120–$160/night
Famous For: Family-friendly layout and convenience
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Use the mini-fridge for leftovers from family meals—it’s a lifesaver.
3. The Ruby Hotel & Bar
While not specifically designed for kids, this boutique hotel offers peaceful outdoor areas, riverside hammocks, and a retro vibe that parents appreciate.
Address: 400 Fannin Ave, Round Rock, TX 78664
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $140–$200/night
Famous For: Stylish, relaxing ambiance
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great choice for families with older kids or as a treat for parents after a day of play.
Packing Tips for Family Road Trips to Round Rock
Sun hats, sunscreen, and water bottles for all-day outdoor fun
Swimsuits and towels for Rock’N River or hotel pools
Snacks and wipes for on-the-go refueling
Stroller or wagon for navigating parks and trails
Blanket and frisbee for impromptu park picnics
Extra clothes—because playgrounds and splash pads are messy fun
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice
Spring and fall offer ideal weather for outdoor parks and walking tours
Pack a cooler for snacks if you’re visiting multiple parks in one day
Check event calendars—weekends often include family markets or music nights
Avoid midday heat in summer—plan water activities or shaded rest stops
Holiday lights and parades make winter a surprisingly fun time to visit
Final Thoughts on Family Road Trips to Round Rock
Round Rock offers that perfect mix of playgrounds, parks, sweet treats, and safe adventure—making it one of Central Texas’s best family road trip destinations. Whether your crew prefers slides and splash pads or baseball and barbecue, Round Rock delivers big fun in a compact, easy-to-navigate package.
So pack up the kids, load the snacks, and head to Round Rock where the whole family can unwind, explore, and enjoy every mile of the journey.
