7 Epic Things to Do in Austin in December for Kids, Teams & Private Groups

Looking for things to do in Austin in December beyond another meal or indoor party? Zip Lost Pines offers different year-end experiences for families, younger kids, work teams, and private groups. Cooler December weather can also make outdoor time more comfortable, though shorter daylight and changing conditions make planning important.

1. Take the Full Tour for the Complete Experience

Best for: Families, mixed groups, and many first-time riders.

The Full Zip Tour takes about two to three hours. It includes five dual zip lines, three sky bridges, spiral stairs, scenic trails, and a short group hike.

For many new riders, it also provides a more gradual introduction. The first line is shorter and slower than the lines that follow. That makes the Full Tour a strong option when your list of things to do in Austin in December includes riders with different experience levels.

2. Choose the Half Tour for More Intensity

Best for: Thrill-focused riders with less time.

The Half Zip Tour takes about one to two hours and includes three dual lines. Shorter does not mean easier. Two lines are longer, more aggressive rides over a large ravine. If someone becomes uncomfortable during that part of the course, returning to Base Camp can be more involved. Choose the Half Tour for its shorter duration and stronger adrenaline, not because someone is new to ziplining.

3. Try the Little Zipper With Younger Kids

Best for: Younger adventurers who are not ready for the main course.

The Little Zipper Hour gives younger riders a gentler introduction to ziplining. Kids can respond differently to their first ride. One may want to go again immediately, while another may need more time. The Little Zipper has its own participation requirements, so check those rules instead of applying the standard main-course limits.

4. Zip Around Sunset and After Dark

Best for: Older families, friends, and evening groups.

The Sunset and Night Zip Tour uses four of the course’s longest dual lines. It starts around sunset and continues after dark. Check the forecast before leaving and bring a removable layer when cooler evening conditions are expected. Arrive on time. Late arrivals may lose their reserved spots.

5. Plan a Year-End Team Outing

Best for: Corporate teams, departments, and staff gatherings.

Finding things to do in Austin in December for coworkers can be difficult when you want something more active than another lunch. Ziplining gives the group a shared activity, while dual lines allow riders to travel side by side. Groups of 10 or more can use the group events option and provide:

• Preferred date
• Group size
• Age range
• Event type
• Special requests

Smaller teams can use standard tour options. Participation should remain voluntary. A team outing should not become a test of who is willing to take the biggest risk.

6. Organize a Private Group Event

Best for: Family reunions, birthdays, friend groups, and holiday gatherings.

A private event at Zip Lost Pines can work well when your group wants more control over the experience.

Before planning, confirm:

• Number of guests
• Number who plan to ride
• Age range
• Time available
• Any special requests

This helps match the event to the people attending instead of simply choosing the most intense option.

7. Plan a Little Zipper Private Event

Best for: Kids’ birthdays, youth groups, and younger private groups.

The Little Zipper Private Event puts younger adventurers at the centre of the gathering.

It gives children access to a zipline experience designed for their age group without pushing them onto the standard course too early.

Which Zip Lost Pines Experience Fits Your December Group?

When comparing things to do in Austin in December, choose by age, comfort level, available time, and appetite for adrenaline.

Remember that the Half Tour is not the easier beginner option simply because it is shorter. For many first-time riders, the Full Tour offers a more gradual introduction.

What Is December Weather Like for Ziplining Near Austin?

December is generally cooler than Austin’s summer months, but temperatures can vary between the morning, afternoon, and evening. Check the forecast close to your tour. Use removable layers instead of relying on one heavy outfit. Daylight also fades earlier, which is worth considering when choosing between daytime and evening things to do in Austin in December.

What Should You Wear for December Ziplining?

Start with closed-toe shoes, which are required for ziplining at Zip Lost Pines. Chacos and Vibram FiveFingers are not allowed.

Dress for the day’s weather and use layers you can adjust. Avoid long or dangling jewelry because it can interfere with equipment. Bring only what you need. Zip Lost Pines provides small pouches that zip or bungee close for phones, compact cameras, or fast-acting medication. Guides secure them to the guest’s harness during ground-school orientation.

Most guests use the water stations on the course.

What Happens if the Weather Changes?

Rain does not automatically cancel a tour. Thunderstorms, lightning, heavy rain, or strong winds may cause delays, rescheduling, or cancellation.

If thunder is heard or lightning is seen, the tour pauses and the safety waiting period begins. Another thunder or lightning event restarts that period. Leave some flexibility around the rest of your December schedule.

Rider Requirements to Check Before You Go

For standard main-course tours, the published rider weight range is 50 to 250 pounds. Riders should be able to:

• Walk short trails
• Use stairs and ramps
• Lift their knees
• Bend and twist
• Reach overhead
• Follow guide instructions

Children under 16 need an accompanying adult. A parent or legal guardian must sign for guests under 18.

Pregnant guests cannot participate on the standard course. Certain health conditions, recent injuries, or mobility limits may also affect participation.

Arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled tour. Same-day reservations are confirmed only after they are accepted, so do not assume a last-minute time is secured.

Give the Year One Good Story

You do not need to fill every hour of December to make the month memorable. One shared adventure can be enough. A child may try ziplining for the first time, coworkers may discover a different side of each other, or a family may simply enjoy doing something new together.

That is what makes a year-end outing matter. Long after December is over, the schedule fades, but the story usually stays.

Ready to make one more memory before the year ends? Explore Zip Lost Pines and choose the experience that fits your group.

FAQs

What are the best things to do in Austin in December for kids and families?

At Zip Lost Pines, younger adventurers can use Little Zipper options. Older children and adults who meet the requirements can consider the Full Tour, Half Tour, or Sunset and Night Tour.

Is the Half Tour easier because it is shorter?

No. The Half Tour is shorter but includes more intense lines. The Full Tour gives many first-time riders a more gradual introduction.

Can companies plan December team events?

Yes. Groups of 10 or more can submit their details through the group event proposal.

What should younger riders choose?

Little Zipper experiences are designed for younger adventurers and have their own participation requirements.

How early should groups arrive?

Arrive at least 20 minutes before the scheduled tour. Large groups should allow extra travel and check-in time.