Sep 23

Sep 23 Austin in 72 Hours - Most Instagrammable Spots to Stay, Eat and Play with a Toddler

It’s been over 10 years since we’ve actually visited the city of Austin. Crazy right? We only live 3 hours away in Houston but it seems like every time we are in the hill countries, we opted for a country experience. Recently we had the idea to do a 72 hour city tour of Austin and really experience the food, the outdoor activities and stay in the middle of 6th street all with a toddler! I know what you are thinking, isn’t 6th street too crazy for a child? I beg to differ! We loved the downtown vibes and a 7th floor loft from Top Trip Rentals really sealed the deal! Today, I am recapping my top places to eat, play and take Instagrammable pictures in Austin! As always, on every trip, I wore my Lily Jade convertible diaper bag as a backpack. It’s big enough to hold my camera and all of Kai’s toys, plus more! See how I used it the whole weekend below! And speaking of Texas, did you know that Lily Jade is based right around the corner in San Antonio? Meggan who is the soul of the company is a shining light in the Texas community. If you get the chance to read about her story, it’s certainly an impactful one and makes me proud to support a local company.

Pink Flying Scissors Mural Austin in 72 Hours - Most Instagrammable Spots to Stay, Eat and Play with a Toddler

Where to Stay:

Top Trip Rentals

I’ve never been the downtown kinda girl but the Little Field Lofts on 6th Street, right in the middle of downtown Austin changed my heart! We found the listing on Top Trip Rentals and instantly fell in love! Situated on top floor, we caught all the action from the floor to ceiling windows. It’s right across the street from the historical Drexel and within walking distance from ALL the coolest bars, restaurants and not to mention Instagrammable murals. Top Trip Rentals even provide scooter rentals which was the highlight of out trip. We zipped around on the top floor of the parking garage with downtown Austin in the backdrop. I couldn’t have felt more hipster and cool in all the right ways. Next time we are in the Austin, I’m going to book one of their historical homes! There are just too many great choices and the amenities are so much better than a hotel room!

Austin in 72 Hours - Most Instagrammable Spots to Stay, Eat and Play with a Toddler Scooter Rental Top Trip

Where to Play for MOM:

Milk + Honey

Austin in 72 Hours - Most Instagrammable Spots to Stay, Eat and Play with a Toddler Milk and Honey Spa

The first day, I booked a facial appointment at the FLAGSHIP Milk + Honey Store in 2nd Street District in downtown Austin. If you are a clean beauty enthusiast, this spa is a must stop! The 60 minute classic facial really set my mood for the entire trip. I’ll share my top tips for getting the most out of your facials in a later post. Pro tip, get there early to enjoy the incredible steam saunas. Stay late and shop their entire clean line of products from my favorite beauty brands like OSEA. If you haven’t made the switch to natural deodorant yet, the Milk + Honey Deodorant has a cult following. Seriously, even my big stinky husband switched to their natural deodorant and hasn’t looked back!

Where to Play for KIDS & FAMILY:

Austin in 72 Hours - Most Instagrammable Spots to Stay, Eat and Play with a Toddler Zilker Park Boat Rental

Zilker Park Train:

If you have a child who is obsessed with trains, Zilker Park is a must visit! The Zilker Zephyr train runs every hour around Barton Springs. The train goes under a bridge and through a really cool playground. Kai loved every minute of it! Cash ONLY!

Austin in 72 Hours - Most Instagrammable Spots to Stay, Eat and Play with a Toddler Zilker Zephyr Park Train

Barton Springs Boat & Canoe Rental

Canoeing down Barton Springs with the whole family might be my top 3 favorite things to do in Austin, ever! We went on a overcast day and had the whole river to ourselves. The $18 an hour rental was long enough to canoe down to the bat bridge downtown. They also have kayak and paddle board rentals on Lady Bird Lake.

Austin in 72 Hours - Most Instagrammable Spots to Stay, Eat and Play with a Toddler Barton Springs Boat Rental

Peter Pan Mini Golf

If you are down in south Austin near Zilker Park anyways, stop by and check out a local favorite. Peter Pan Mini Golf is a family favorite. They open until 10PM and take cash only.

Where to eat and take Instagrammable Pics:

Austin in 72 Hours - Most Instagrammable Spots to Stay, Eat and Play with a Toddler

Voodoo Doughnut:

Such a classic place to visit with the whole family. Go mid afternoon to avoid all the lines. There is a really cute Texas stage for pictures and the floors are pink and white. Cash only again. My Lily Jade Diaper Bag converted into backpack was perfect for strolling through downtown Austin! I always pack a change of cloths for Kai and even fit her swimsuit and water cup in for afternoon adventures through the park. I love the 2 large outside pockets for easy access items like wallet and keys.

Kerby Lane:

If you want brunch that will knock your socks off, you have to go to Kerby Lane! There are many locations around austin but the original location on Kerby Lane is so lush and beautiful. It reminds of the Houston Heights, just super charming. The best thing to get, for breakfast is Egg Fransisco smothered in queso. Their pancakes are heaven too!

Hank’s Austin:

Hank’s is as trendy as it comes. Think white alls, rattan chairs, cactus lined patio and a mean cup of coffee. Like any hipster place, you have to get the avocado toast. Their kids menu is so cute with dog drawing and super reasonable.

LAST STOP, FAVORITE MURAL IN AUSTIN:

Pink Scissor Wall

On the side of a closed down salon, this pink wall mural was one of my favorite finds in Austin. The pink flying scissors mural wall is so colorful and fun and just an Instagram gem! See location here:

5501 N Lamar Blvd #102, Austin, TX 78751

Hope you guys have the best time in ATX! Any spots I missed? Tell me on my Instagram Post!