The well-rated Residence Inn by Marriott Tyler is a great place to place for families thanks to its spacious rooms, each with a fully-equipped kitchen, indoor pool, and free breakfast. Today, you and your kids can learn all about this old place and the creatures that lived there. Another great outdoor activity is a scenic drive along the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. Aside from historical landmarks, Galveston has many fun activities, including the Aquarium Pyramid, the Moody Gardens, the Freedom Walk, and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. This center features a variety of hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities, as well as a boardwalk and observation tower for stunning views of the islands natural beauty. If youre visiting during the spring months, drive the Willow City Loop to catch breathtaking views of Texas wildflowers. Porretto Beach, Galveston. View 26 Photos Belongs on List? Its also conveniently located near downtown San Antonio, so its easy to access. Summer Texas families love to vacation in Corpus Christi for its mix of beautiful beaches and big-city amenities, from museums to South Texas cuisine, all at an affordable price.. Best Free (or Low Cost) Activities: The Texas Surf Museum is a small free museum with exhibits on Texas surfing through the years.Head to Mustang Island State Park ($5 entry fee) to enjoy the beautiful . 10. Board rentals and lessons are relatively cheap and easy to find. This beautiful garden offers nature trails, interactive exhibits, and a variety of gardens showcasing different types of plants and flowers. Visit Family Vacation Critic on Instagram! Its a great destination for a family summer getaway. Galveston. Your youngest will like the Dallas Firefighters Museum and Childrens Theater, while teens will beg to visit Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor. Glen Rose, Davis, Austin, Llano, Murfreesboro, Gruene, Houston, Port Aransas, Malaquite Beach, and South Padre Island are all awesome places to travel with children from Dallas. This is a laid-back and family-friendly vacation spot famous for the sandy areas of Mustang Island and its classic beach town vibe. The Texas State Fair takes place in Dallas in the fall, and all throughout the year, you can relax and socialize at the citys rooftop bars and along Margarita Mile. Budget hacks If youre looking for a unique place to stay, check out the top Airbnb rentals in the area. This desert landscape is best visited during the spring and fall. HC 70, Lajitas, TX 79852, Phone: 432-424-5000. Youll also find plenty of vacation rentals, some right on the river! There's also a 20-mile paddling trail for canoers and kayakers, which passes through some excellent fishing areas. This scenic walkway along the San Antonio River is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, and offers a beautiful view of the city. This Texas coastal city is a perfect getaway for all Texans looking for a beach and a relaxing time. Whether youre looking for history, culture, or adventure, this city has something to offer everyone. The southernmost point in Florida, Key West owes its popularity as a coastal town for families to its sparkling blue waters, white sand beaches, and loads of kid-friendly . There are also many interactive displays and special events that are perfect for children. Youll leave Garner State Park with a sunburn, new friends, and a yearning to book another Garner trip for next year. When you arent relaxing with your toes in the sand, Corpus Christi has other attractions to keep you occupied during your vacation. 3630 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet, TX 78611, Phone: 512-793-2223. Malaysia THE 10 BEST Texas Family Resorts 2023 (with Prices) - Tripadvisor United States Texas (TX) Texas Hotels Texas Family Resorts Texas Family Resorts Everything you need for a fun family vacation in one place. Spend your days building sandcastles on the beach or dropping a line, and come nighttime, take a pirate-themed cruise with Red Dragon Pirate Cruises before having a delicious seafood dinner. Unwind in a natural setting while exploring a new destination like Corpus Christi, South Padre Island, Fredericksburg or Plano. This tiny town is home to the mysterious Marfa lights that are rumored to be due to extraterrestrial activity and last the Chinati Foundation founded by Donald Judd. The park features over 150 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain climbs. This indoor theme park features a variety of Lego-themed rides and attractions, as well as a 4D cinema and interactive exhibits. Italy There are indoor and outdoor art installations here that will spark your curiosity and leave you feeling inspired. Mom Knows Best: 10 Family Vacations in Texas to Inspire Your Next Trip Southwest Mom Knows Best: 10 Family Vacations in Texas to Inspire Your Next Trip To help inspire your itchy feet, we've pulled together 10 family vacations in Texas recommended by Mom herself, from Dallas to San Antonio. The 10-acre property boasts a fantastic location overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, and there's an outdoor pool with lounge chairs, a cocktail bar with live music, and a program of kids' activities during the summer. Plan to dive into your favorite watersports here, such as surfing, jet skiing, kayaking, kiteboarding, and parasailing. Youll find three developed front-country campgrounds within the park that provide drinking water and restroom facilities backcountry camping is also permitted. 1. Our research is editorially independent but we ct intro final 1/1 An error occurred. You can also enjoy picnicking and hiking along the riverbanks. However, San Antonio is more than just this iconic historical site. Visit Family Vacation Critic on Facebook! 3. Check out these 10 great ideas for family vacations around the state of Texas if you're on a budget. For your next beach vacation, consider planning a trip to Port Aransas, Texas. Within the park, youll find several types of accommodation, The park feature several campgrounds with a variety of camping options, including RV sites, glamping, and tent sites, as well as restroom facilities, showers, and picnic areas. For a more educational experience, check out the Texas State Capital, the Bullock Texas State History Museum, and the Texas Military Forces Museum. Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a natural wonder located in the Texas Panhandle region, known for its stunning canyon views, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. You can even check out specific libraries and departments, like The Texas Collection, an assembly of data and records of the state. Its a beautiful place to visit with the entire family, offering everything from beach vacations to short city breaks. South Padre Island provides plenty of opportunities to get out on the water during your Texas getaway, from dolphin tours to pirate cruises. Best Places to Visit in Texas Dallas Big Bend National Park Fredericksburg, TX San Antonio Guadalupe Mountains National Park Port Aransas South Padre Island Mustang Island Boca Chica Houston. This museum offers a variety of exhibits showcasing Texas history, culture, and wildlife. Moreover, its a much quieter city, creating a more family-friendly atmosphere. Even if you arent here to see your favorite band, you wont want to miss hiking the Greenbelt, shopping on South Congress Avenue or bar-hopping along 6th Street. Texas has many. You can also easily rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and other equipment to make your beach day even more enjoyable. Well, thanks to its many world-class cities, vast parklands, and countless attractions, this large state offers no end of fun things to do and is waiting to be explored, whatever the season. Recommended Houston Hotel: Hyatt Regency Houston. One of the most popular activities in Fredericksburg is visiting the local wineries. Keep an eye out for fascinating wildlife, including exotic birds, turtles, butterflies, and sometimes, alligators. Some of the most popular wineries include Becker Vineyards, Grape Creek Vineyards, and Messina Hof. [x-cloak]{display:none!important}. Dallas is an ultra-modern city (especially when compared with other popular Texas tourism areas), offering something to please each person in your family. Dining options range from an elegant fine dining restaurant to an old-fashioned general store selling ice cream and other treats, and there's also a beautiful on-site spa. Enjoy the scenery with a drive, hike or bike ride before cooling off at Hot Springs Historic District, located on the Rio Grande River. Family Weekend Getaways in Texas: Inks Lake State Park, 10. Unsubscribe at any time. Most of the beach is open to four-wheel-drive vehicles, and camping is permitted along most of the beach as well as long as you have a permit. The compound consists of several private cabins that cater to families of all sizes, and you can choose between regular or all-inclusive lodgings. To get outdoors and active, go for a hike or mountain bike ride in Cameron Park. 1. The Abilene State Park is great if you want to spend some time outdoors. Stretching for 70 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, the Padre Island National Seashore is the world's longest undeveloped barrier island. If youre after a Texas family vacation experience you wont get elsewhere, consider one of the following unique getaways. There are endless green areas for playing sports, with many locals participating in disc golf. Saturday, May 28, 2022 Texas is filled with a variety of fun-filled destinations that would make for the perfect family vacation. Tucked away in the forested hills outside Waco, Meridian State Park is a wonderfully peaceful park that attracts nature lovers from all over the state. 1. Youll also find boutiques and souvenir stores within the stockyards. Europe Millions of bats live underneath the bridge and flee their nests after dark. Once a highly wealthy city, locals and tourists can now enjoy the magnificent architecture from its heyday. All-inclusive family resorts arent unique to Texas. A perfect family-friendly summer vacation spot, Tyler is a charming city located in the Piney Woods region of East Texas, known for its natural beauty, rose gardens, and family-friendly attractions. The park spans 800,000 acres and combines rivers, deserts, and mountainous terrain. The 19th-century buildings are still in place and serve as facades for current restaurants, cafs, and storefronts. South Padre Island is a 34-mile-long haven located on the border of Mexico. Leave the car behind Don't waste money on a rental car. Amarillo, Texas, is also home to a small amusement park (Wonderland Park) and water park called Splash Amarillo. One of the most popular attractions in Abilene is the Frontier Texas! But be warned. The Schlitterbahn Waterpark is also a great place to visit with kids to cool off on a hot summer day, with a variety of water rides and attractions for all ages. Well send you our newsletter with travel destinations, This park features a variety of water attractions, including water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, as well as a variety of food options and gift shops. The cherry on top is that many of these museums are free to enter all year round. The park has playgrounds, nature trails, paddleboarding, angling spots, and several river viewing points. Not all of the cabins have TVs, but if you're stuck inside on a rainy day, you can borrow puzzles and board games from the office. This is a top destination for foodies because of the excellent culinary scene, as well as for art lovers because of the museums and local events. DAY ONE. Theres a Dr Pepper Museum that you can visit here and also the Magnolia Market at the Silos, which was made famous on the HGTV series, Fixer Upper. During a trip to Waco, you can also visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame, the local zoo, and Waco Mammoth National Monument to see mammoth bones and fossils. Recommended Galveston Island Hotel: Hotel Galvez & Spa, A Wyndham Grand Hotel. Whether youre looking for outdoor activities, educational experiences, or entertainment options, this city has something for all ages to enjoy. Aside from the miles of sandy shore here, South Padre Island is also home to Beach Park at Isla Blanca waterpark and the Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Park and boasts luxury beachfront accommodations. Other things to do in Big Bend National Park include kayaking, ranger-led tours, and Junior Ranger programs for kids. Accommodation guide There are 27 miles of trails to explore, including a half-mile boardwalk across the wetlands, and visitors can also cycle through the forest, go on a geocaching adventure, or fish in one of the park's lakes. The Post Oak Hotel 3. Southeast Asia 1. Family Travel Houston The Houston Museum District beckons families to visitall of the citys museums are located in one place, making it easy and efficient to walk from place to place on your Texas family getaway. Boasting seven restaurants and more than 1,000 spacious rooms and suites, the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa is one of the most comprehensive family resorts in Texas. Visitors can also enjoy themed train rides throughout the summer, such as the popular Grapevine Wine Train. 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd, Cedar Creek, TX 78612, Phone: 512-308-1234. Below, Ive outlined several ways to enjoy Texas on a budget. "url": "https://www.tripstodiscover.com", Cameron Park is a green and picturesque 416-acre site to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. There's also a day camp program for kids aged 4 to 12. Kids will love spending some time exploring a retired aircraft carrier and exhibit related to naval history and aviation at the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay. The Adamson-Spalding Storybook Garden is also a must-visit with kids. Mini Vacations in Texas are often the best idea for families. Although, its generally best to avoid it during spring break when its filled with party-goers. Whether youre seeking a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting theme park adventure, Texas has it all. The prints lie below the river bed and belong to an acrocanthosaurus, a prehistoric bipedal predator. By gingerbell. Youll also find several nice vacation homes in and around town. The rooms and suites are decorated in an Old West style, and if you want more of an outdoorsy experience, you can also stay at the ranch's RV park, which includes access to all resort amenities. Austin is undoubtedly Texass hottest city right now. The phrase we alluded to earlier about Texas and things being bigger certainly applies here, but the alternatives dont come cheap. Galveston is a great destination for families in the summer, with a variety of activities and attractions to enjoy, theres something for everyone. With history and art throughout the city, San Antonio is the perfect place for a family vacation in Texas. Its also nice to walk across the historic 1870-built suspension bridge and attend a local festival or event, such as Brazos Nights, Deep in the Heart Film Festival, or the Heart O Texas Fair and Rodeo. New England Best Urban Destination: Fort Worth Ideal for Picturesque Drives: Willow City Best for Nature Lovers: Big Bend National Park Best Small Town: Grandbury Best for Art Lovers: Marfa Best for Instagrammers: Dripping Springs Millions of years ago, dinosaurs roamed the land within and surrounding the park. There are five miles of beachfront perfect for swimming, strolling, and soaking up the sun, and there are some beautiful picnic areas perfect for families. Holiday Inn Resort Galveston On The Beach, South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center, National Center for Childrens Illustrated Literature. Another popular attraction in Austin is the Austin Nature and Science Center. At night, the clear skies are filled with countless stars. There is always an energetic atmosphere on the grounds; occasionally, its a venue for music festivals. It is home to the Johnson Space Center that trains NASA astronauts and that you can visit to learn more about space exploration. This is a scenic park that also offers relaxing and scenic drives if you dont feel like being too active. Many of the ideas outlined above work as the weekend escapes, but here are three more to think about. See San Antonio Family Hotels. Houston has been making its way onto must-visit travel lists for several years now. Texas is a big state, and you do not need to cross the state line to enjoy a memorable vacation. Don't miss out on exclusive savings for family fun with these Houston experiences and deals. 2. For families seeking adventure, Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a thrilling theme park with many rides and attractions for all ages. Wimberley, Texas used to be an under-the-radar Texas destination, but it has become increasingly popular to visit in recent years. Youll also find several areas where you can rent and launch kayaks. Campsites can be found in several different areas, although only some have electricity, picnic tables, and potable water. They require a hefty upfront payment, but you wont spend a penny once you arrive. One of the only national parks in the state, Big Bend is truly a Texas gem. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. This park features a variety of hiking and biking trails, as well as picnic areas and a lake where you can enjoy the beach and launch a boat. Cabins and screened shelters are available for rent, and if you'd like to camp, you can choose between primitive sites and ones with full hookups. For outdoor activities, head to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including whooping cranes and alligators, as well as go hiking through one of the many nature paths. It makes a great budget-friendly destination for a summer trip. You can also take a guided tour of San Antonio Missions. } Recommended Grapevine Hotel: Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine.