Austin's

Austin's is a large indoor and outdoor entertainment center in Pflugerville, about 14 miles north of central Austin. The official site describes 23 acres and more than 90,000 square feet of indoor space. This is the pick for families who want several kinds of play in one place, but younger children's choices depend heavily on height requirements.

Indoor attractions include an arcade, laser tag, bowling, a rock wall, XD theater, Putt Vegas mini golf, a roller coaster and Tower Drop. Outside, families can find go-karts, bumper boats, batting cages, mini golf, a carousel and smaller rides. Rain may close outdoor attractions until staff decide they are safe, while the official FAQ says indoor attractions remain open.

That makes the venue rainy-day friendly, though a wet-weather visit won't provide the full experience.

There is no fee to enter the property. Families can buy all-day attraction passes or pay for individual activities. Current Play Pass pricing is $49.

95 per person, or $39. 95 for a guest under 44 inches. A family with two adults and two children under 44 inches would spend $179.

80 before tax, food or arcade spending. Check the height chart before buying because several rides have minimums, companion rules or weight limits. Closed-toe shoes are required for go-karts and the rock wall, and the wall requires a waiver.

Allow three to six hours, or longer if the family buys all-day passes and takes a meal break. Weekday opening is the easiest time to sort out tickets and start with top-priority attractions. Parking is free, but the property sits directly along IH-35, so driving traffic may be the main arrival friction.

Food is available at the Bar & Grill, REVL and the buffet. Outside food and drinks aren't allowed except for birthday cakes. Buffet hours differ from the overall park schedule, so check them before selecting a food-inclusive pass.