Texas is among the best and most popular states for a family vacation because of its many kid-friendly attractions and sunny weather. There are some of the best amusement parks and waterparks in the country here, and many of the hotels and resorts have private waterparks for guests to enjoy.
There are many upscale resorts throughout the state, but there are many beautiful state parks if you prefer to relax somewhere more peaceful. Whatever your family’s interests are, here are the best family weekend getaways in Texas.
South Padre Island
This island is situated on the southern end of the world’s longest barrier island, the 34-mile-long Padre Island, which borders Mexico. It’s among the best places to visit in Texas for a vacation because it has many attractions such as pirate cruises, dolphin tours, and a visit to the historic lighthouse. You can also witness how injured turtles are cared for at the Sea Turtle, Inc. rehabilitation center.
Schlitterbahn Beach Resort has an outdoor and indoor water park where you can splash around. Don’t miss out on ziplining and horseback riding at South Padre Island Adventure Park.
Camp Jellystone
Camp Jellystone, known for its many wonderful amenities and family-friendly environment, is the ideal place to take your kids for a stress-free getaway. There are seven different spots throughout Texas, each with its distinct atmosphere, but most offer RV and tent camping, cabin rentals, and plenty of activities for the entire family.
The specific amenities vary by park, but they usually include mini-golf courses, heated swimming pools, and exciting splash parks and waterslides. If you’re organizing a large family reunion, Coyote Ranch has a lodge that you can use as an event space.
Big Bend National Park
Big Bend is a nature lover’s paradise, with scenic drives, biking throughout the day, hiking, and stargazing at night.
It’s reasonable to think that the Hot Springs Historic District on the Rio Grande River was once a health resort due to its natural springs. Several of the old structures still make their presence known as evidence of this. Ranger-led tours, kayaking, and Junior Ranger programs for children make this an ideal family destination.
Dinosaur Trail Cabins & Cottages
Dinosaur Trail Cabins & Cottages, located outside the historic town of Granbury, is a rustic bed and breakfast named after the dinosaur-lined trail that winds through the forest. The largest cabin can host up to eight people and has two porches, dining areas, a large living area, and an Indiana Jones-themed room with a decorative rope bridge.
If you have a larger group, there are two more one-bedroom cabins that best fit double occupancy. Every morning, a family-style breakfast is provided in the dining room, and on weekends, a minimum two-night stay is required.
Amarillo
This is a must-have for any car enthusiast in your family! Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo has the most incredible art collection of graffiti-covered overturned cars! Then, on the same Route 66 Historic District, visit the Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum.
You can take scenic drives or go window shopping at antique stores. If your young bundles of joy demand more, take them to Splash Amarillo or Wonderland Amusement Park. What else do you need to render this the best family vacation ever?
Cedar Hill State Park
Cedar Hill State Park, which sprawls along the shore of Joe Pool Lake, is the ideal place to ditch the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors frequently visit to boat, swim, and fish in the lake, and the park provides lighted fishing jetties, boat ramps, and even a perch pond for young kids to fish in.
You can also incorporate an educational component to your vacation by visiting the Penn Farm Agricultural History Center. You will learn about farming history while touring a historic family farm.
Galveston Island
If you’re searching for a cheap family trip idea, the barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico is ideal. The Galveston Railroad Museum and the Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark are great places for kids to have fun, and you can go to the beach in the evenings or mornings for some family fun!
While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the longest SEE-WALL mural on the Seawall, which spans 10 miles between 9th and 89th streets. The Strand has a variety of souvenir shops and restaurants to appease your taste buds.
Foxfire Log Cabins
The Foxfire Log Cabins, located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, do an excellent job of building an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere. There are over a dozen cabins to choose from, varying in size from cozy one-bedroom cottages to expansive multi-family houses. Still, all guests are welcome to go fly-fishing, swim in the property’s great swimming hole, or relax and enjoy the Sabinal River views.
Although not all of the cabins have televisions, if you’re stuck indoors on a rainy day, the office has board games and puzzles you can borrow.
Port Aransas
Beach camping is a relaxing and enjoyable family vacation option in Texas.
Mustang Island State Park in Port Aransas is an excellent beach camping location where your children can enjoy some sports fishing or build sandcastles on the beach. After taking a pirate-themed cruise with Red Dragon Pirate Cruises, you can end the day with a delicious seafood dinner.
This package includes parasailing, dolphin watching, birding, kayaking, and a seaside links-style golf course. Other activities and festivals make this a lively place to visit with the family.
You can also check out the different outdoor activities in Port Aransas here!
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa
The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, located on a 300-acre property in one of Texas’ most scenic areas, is a luxurious spot for a family getaway. The 4-acre waterpark, which includes a waterslide and a wave machine, will delight children, while adults can relax in the upscale spa or on the 27-hole championship golf course.
There are also fun pastimes for the entire family, such as a volleyball court, cycling trails, and evening smores. Many rooms have balconies or private patios, and larger families can book one of the luxurious suites.
