Austin is an incredibly diverse vacation spot that has something for everyone in your family. Dubbed the “Live Music Capital of the World,” the city beckons fans of all kinds of music, from blues to jazz, country and rock n’ roll. The gateway to Texas Hill Country is also well-known for its barbecue and rolling golf courses. Finally, there are plenty of kid-friendly things to do in this down-home metropolis.

Here’s a peek at what you might enjoy with your children on a visit to Austin.

Barton Springs Pool

Congress Avenue Bridge Bats: That’s right, bats. Every night at sunset from about March to October, 1.5 million bats make a mass exodus from underneath a bridge at Congress Avenue. It’s a wild tourist attraction, so only go if these winged creatures don’t give you the heebie-jeebies! (Chances are your kids will get quite a kick out of the sight.)

Zilker Park: At 350 acres, this city park offers plenty of recreational opportunities. Take a swim in Barton Springs Pool, which is three acres in size and is fed from underground springs so the temperature remains a constant 68 degrees year-round. Other fun recreational activities include playing disc golf, renting a canoe to paddle around Town Lake, and taking the kids on the Zilker Zephyr mini train.

Harry Ransom Center: If your teen is an avid photographer, he or she might appreciate a look at the world’s oldest photograph, which dates back to at least 1827 – that would be “The View from the Window at Le Gras,” taken in France. Also on display here is a Gutenberg Bible from 1454-1455. While this collection at the University of Texas is definitely for older children, it may be worth a visit, especially for history buffs.

Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary: October brings Boo Time at the Austin Zoo, during which they offer a “haunted” train ride (for an additional fee) on several evenings through the end of the month. You’ll see lions, monkeys, giant tortoises, frogs and peacocks, among many other animals at the zoo. This is a nonprofit organization created to rescue and rehabilitate animals, so donations in addition to the modest admission cost are always welcomed.

For more ideas on what to see and do in Austin with your kids, visit the Austin Convention & Visitor Bureau website.