Fortlandia

Fortlandia is back at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, running from October 2, 2026, through January 31, 2027. It's a family event that takes over the center every autumn and winter, so if you missed it last year, you've got plenty of time to catch it this season.

The whole thing is built around forts. Local artists, creatives, and design firms design and build custom forts that you can climb, crawl through, and explore. There's also a build-your-own fort area for the kids to get their hands dirty, and a permanent sailboat fort that stays put. Usually, there's one off-site fort located near Lady Bird Lake, too.

One of the better things about Fortlandia is what happens when the season wraps up. The retired forts don't just get torn down; they find a second life at local parks and businesses around town. In the past, they've ended up at St. Elmo Brewing, Lakewood Park in Leander, and The Leaning Pear in Wimberley, so you can often find them still standing long after the event is over.

You'll find the forts in the Luci and Ian Family Garden at the center, 4801 La Crosse Ave. Admission is included with general admission to the Wildflower Center—$15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $9 for ages 3 to 17, and free for members. The center is closed November 27, December 24, 25, 31, and January 1, so keep those dates in mind if you're planning a trip over the holidays.