Rain! After doing the rain dance all summer it seems our hard work is finally paying off. Reports state we had the wettest October on record, with more rain predicted this first week of November.
But I have to admit, even though I’m grateful for the much-needed rain after a few days the kids and I start to get a little antsy from being cooped up inside. Sure, it’s fun at first but let’s face it – there’s only so many Rainbow Loom bracelets you can make or forts you can build before cabin fever sets in.
Lucky for us, the Lake Travis area has plenty of indoor options to keep kids entertained. Below are eight ideas to get you started:
1). Lake Travis Library – The Lake Travis library offers preschool, toddler and baby story times, “little yoga” and other scheduled throughout the week. Or go anytime and let your little ones explore at their own pace. The library is a great way to expose children to books and build a love of reading from a young age.
2). Rolly Pollies – Located at the Shops at the Galleria, Rolly Pollies is an indoor gym with tons of fun equipment. The staff is helpful and they offer activities for ages 6 months and up. They have scheduled classes throughout the week with open play at certain times. Check the website for details.
3). Indoor Art – Getting creative indoors is a wonderful way to spend a rainy day. There are a couple fantastic options right in our backyard.
- Color Me Mine – This studio offers “pottery & glass fusing artfully designed by you.” They offer several different choices based on ages and interests, including pottery, mosaics and fused glass. It’s a fun activity for all ages. Color Me Mine is located in the Hill Country Galleria.
- UnCorked Painting – This is a mobile art studio that offers classes and parties for all ages. They host kids day out or parent/child painting classes on certain Saturdays, so if your weekend plans get washed out UnCorked is a great alternative.
4). Hoppin’ House – Another fun way for kids to burn some energy! Hoppin’ House in Lakeway has inflatables and a foam pit. The kids love it and come home exhausted – double win. Don’t forget your socks!
5). Catch a Matinee – Sometimes a dark theater, greasy popcorn and junior mints are the perfect answer on a rainy day. Why not take the kids to a movie, especially if you can do it during the day when the prices are cheaper and there are less people giving you funny looks when, despite her best intentions, your preschooler’s “whisper” about having to go potty is louder than a lion in labor. Try the Cinemark Hill Country Galleria or The Moviehouse & Eatery in Four Points.
6). Chic-fil-A – I know, I know. Perhaps not the most novel idea, but unless you’ve been stuck inside with multiple children day after day please don’t judge. I’m not above taking my kids to a fast food place and letting them run around the playscape while I eat a meal (or ok, you caught me – catch up on Facebook) in relative peace. It’s clean, the service is great, they have waffle fries and the kids have fun. Sold.
7). Friday Fun – If it happens to be a Friday, there are a couple options for children’s entertainment in Steiner Ranch. Check the websites to confirm, but the following are both great ways to support local businesses and musicians:
- Cups-N Cones – story time with the Mr. Rudy, Fridays @ 10:15
- Millie & Mox – children’s musician “Mr. Will” Dupuy plays upcoming Fridays @10
8). Put on the Rainboots! – This might be my favorite option on the list. If all else fails, why not put the kids in their rainboots, raincoat (or swimsuit if it’s warm) and head outside? Splash in some puddles, get wet and catch raindrops on your tongue. I promise your kids will remember it – after all, isn’t that what memories are made of?
What are your favorite things to do indoors in the area? We’d love to hear your suggestions to add to the list.
Photo of children coloring courtesy of Lake Travis Community Library Facebook Page
