The Ultimate Guide to AUS: Kid Business
Traveling with kids can be an adventure itself, especially when you’re stuck at an airport waiting for your flight. But at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), it’s different. We think it’s important that families have options to keep little ones entertained and engaged while waiting for a flight or layover. Here’s our list of the top things you and your tyke can do on your next visit to AUS:
Keeping Busy in the Terminal
Toy Joy: Toy Joy is an Austin favorite amongst kids and adults! Located right by Gate 12, the store offers a range of new- and old-school toys from Pipsticks stickers and coloring books to kaleidoscopes and 6-in-1 magnetic games.
Yummi Joy: Located right in Toy Joy, the aptly named Yummi Joy offers sweet treats like cotton candy to satisfy everyone’s sweet teeth.
Lego Vending Machine: You’ll find a cleverly located vending machine right past Checkpoint 1 (closest to Gate 15) that sells a variety of games and Lego sets to engage your little ones as soon as you step into the terminal.
Sprinkles Cupcakes Vending Machines: Treat your little ones (and yourself) to gourmet cupcakes from Sprinkles Cupcakes vending machines. A variety of flavors like banana, red velvet and black-and-white are stocked daily for a fresh taste; we have vending machines located by Gates 10, 15 and 23.
Interactive art
- Interimaginary Departures: Immerse yourselves in the fantastical world of Interimaginary Departures, an interactive gate that doubles as an art installation at AUS. Let your kids explore and interact with the whimsical elements including quirky furniture and a flight board with upcoming flights to destinations like Hogwarts and The Emerald City. Located by Gate 14.
- Urban Nature Series by Mila Sketch: Bring your smartphone and unlock mysteries spread out on the walls in the terminal. The Urban Nature Series is a colorful and interactive art installation that’ll take your kiddos to different worlds through the lens of your phone camera. Visit and interact with either the art in 2 locations: outside the boys’ restroom or the girls’ restroom between Gates 9 and 11.
Berry Austin: Stay refreshed with fresh fruit smoothies from Berry Austin, offering healthy and yummy options for both kids and adults. Located by Gate 17.
Book People: Dive into an adventure while waiting to board for your next adventure! You’ll find a curated selection of children’s books for a range of ages and classic titles like Harry Potter. No book worms in the family? Pick up quirky keepsakes they sell like Beanie Baby keychains and “Keep Austin Weird” kidsd shirts.
Kids’ Menus: Refuel with a sized down meal from one of the airport’s restaurants offering kid-friendly menus from pizza and burgers to chicken tendies.
Tips for Parents
- Plan Ahead: Check the airport map beforehand to locate kid-friendly amenities and plan your route accordingly.
- Pack Snacks and Activities: Bring along snacks (yes, they’re allowed through security as long as they’re solid and sealed!) and activities to keep kids entertained during downtime. Portable games, coloring books, and favorite toys could help pass the time.
- Take Breaks: Don’t hesitate to take breaks and find a quiet spot to relax if your kids need a break from the hustle and bustle of the terminal. We offer a “quiet room” on the 2nd floor mezzanine across from Gate 16.
- ‘Parents on the Go Vending” is available by Gate 9 and sells a variety of last-minute or emergency kid essentials like a diaper changing kit, baby food, entertainment, snacks, and more.
With these tips and activities in mind, we hope you and your kids can make the most of y’all’s time at AUS and make memorable experiences. Safe travels!