Best Family Vacations in Texas (2026)

Known as the “Lone Star State”, Texas has a unique charm and appeal that makes it the perfect place for family getaways. Texas is the second-largest state after Alaska, offering 268,599 square miles for families to explore. From spooky ghost towns to magnificent beaches and national parks, Texas has something for everyone. Here are the best family vacations in Texas for all ages.

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What Are the Best Family Vacations in Texas?

The best family vacations in Texas include San Antonio (the RiverWalk, the Alamo, and Morgan’s Wonderland), Austin (live music, Barton Springs, and the famous bat flight), Dallas (Six Flags, the Perot Museum, and the Fort Worth Zoo), Hill Country (swimming holes and family-friendly wineries), and Galveston Island for beach days.

Big Bend National Park is the top pick for nature-loving families who want hiking, river trips, and spectacular night skies. Texas is the largest state after Alaska, so there’s genuinely something for every type of family.

Things to do in Texas with Kids

1. Dallas

Dallas is a modern metropolis located in Northern Texas that has seen epic growth in the past few years – and for good reason; the area has a ton of attractions for families. The DFW area encompasses Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, Frisco, and many other cities. You could explore for a month and not see it all.

For those with young kids, head to Dallas World Aquarium, the Dallas Zoo, or the Fort Worth Zoo. Each one of these offers endless hours of fun.

History buffs, on the other hand, should head to the Sixth Floor Museum (where JFK was assassinated), the George W. Bush Presidential Library (fascinating and appropriate for older kids since there is a lot of reading), and the Dallas Firefighters Museum.

Likewise, for those with an affinity for science, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History will entertain kids all day with hands-on activities and exhibits.

Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Visit Hurricane Harbor and Six Flags Over Texas, a water and roller coaster park that is perfect for adrenaline junkies! Other outdoor adventures in Dallas include: the Dallas Arboretum, Trinity Forest Adventure Park, and Klyde Warren Park. And of course there are plenty of hiking trails in DFW!

For those really hot summer days, don’t miss these indoor activities in Dallas: Kidzania (an interactive indoor play space), the National Videogame Museum, and Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark.

Need more ideas? Don’t miss our list of the best things to do in Dallas with kids!

Where to Stay in Dallas with Kids

Depending on what you’re looking for, there are amazing hotels throughout the Dallas area. Our top 3 choices would be: Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, Gaylord Texan, and Hilton Anatole.

2. San Antonio

With history and art throughout the city, San Antonio is the perfect place for a family vacation in Texas. This marvelous city has a variety of sculptures around town. One example is the awe-inspiring, reddish-orange Torch of Friendship. This is a beautiful 65-foot-tall, abstract sculpture by Mexican sculptor Sebastián.

If your kids aren’t into art, don’t worry; San Antonio has a lot more to offer. Visit the legendary RiverWalk for a nice, relaxing stroll. Of course, you can’t miss the Alamo, but we highly recommend visiting the other San Antonio Missions (there are four others). They are as impressive as the Alamo.

Animal lovers and children alike may enjoy seeing the animals at SeaWorld (link), San Antonio Aquarium, and San Antonio Zoo. There’s also a Six Flags amusement park in San Antonio (Six Flags Fiesta) for the thrill seekers in your group.

One of our favorite places to visit with kids in San Antonio is Morgan’s Wonderland, a 25-acre park that is the world’s first completely accessible park. There’s plenty of entertainment; the kids will never want to leave. You will find that San Antonio has some of the best amusement parks in Texas!

If you’re lucky, you may even have a chance to experience one of the annual boat parades on the River Walk. We visited San Antonio at Christmas, and it’s something I highly recommend!

Where to Stay in San Antonio with Kids

We really enjoyed Hotel Valencia, and I think you can’t go wrong with a Riverwalk property. If you want to stay in some of the best family resorts in Texas, some of our top choices are Hyatt Regency Hill Country and JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country.

3. Austin

Known as the live music capital of the world, Austin is perfect for music lovers. Rock out to a variety of music festivals and concerts throughout the year. Sixth Street is a perfect place to start if you want to check out some bands.

For a more peaceful experience, learn about Texas history at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum or take a tour of the Texas Capitol Building. More adventurous nature-lovers will enjoy swimming in the natural springs at Barton Springs Pool. Others may love Lady Bird Lake, which is great for hikes, biking, and boating.

And don’t forget to see the Mexican free-tailed bats who live under the Congress Avenue Bridge. At sunset, over a million bats depart for their nightly adventures. It’s truly a sight to behold!

If you’re looking for a more educational experience with kids in Austin, The Thinkery, a children’s museum, is a must-see for kids and parents alike. 

Where to Stay in Austin with Kids

The Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is perfect for an Austin getaway. Other good choices include: Hyatt Regency Lost Pines and the Fairmont Austin.

4. Hill Country

Found in the heart of Texas, Hill Country is a marvelous place to visit. Its rolling hills have some of the most notable features, including the Enchanted Rock, the second-largest granite formation in the US. 

Parents will love the region’s family-friendly wineries. Visiting a vineyard with kids is not only accepted, but many even have playgrounds for kids. Discover pastures with livestock, fields with beautiful wildflowers, and magnificent viewpoints.

For adventurous individuals who love getting out in nature, be sure to cool off at one of the swimming holes in Hill Country. Some favorites are: the Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well in Wimberley, Krause Springs in Spicewood, and McKinney Falls State Park in Austin.

Where to Stay in Hill Country with Kids

There are so many places to explore in Hill Country, so we recommend a vacation rental so you can explore the area efficiently.

LOOKING FOR MORE STATE PARKS IN TEXAS TO EXPLORE? CLICK HERE!

5. Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is a great place to visit if you love nature and, especially, if you have children. Take ranger-led park tours or go kayaking with friends! Children can become mini-rangers by joining the Junior Ranger programs.

Those who want to head out on their own can take river trips on the Rio Grande, hike, or explore on horseback. Popular trails include Lost Mine Trail and Santa Elena Canyon Trail that runs along the river. There are so many fun things to do in Big Bend National Park with kids! One of the highlights of visiting Big Bend is being able to enjoy the night skies without city light pollution.

Where to Stay in Big Bend with Kids

Accommodation options in Big Bend National Park are limited. Look at Chisos Mountains Lodge, Lajitas Golf Resort, or a vacation rental near Big Bend. If camping is more of your style, camp your RV in designated primitive sites.

6. Amarillo

Amarillo is a beautiful city with a rich history. This place features everything from antique furniture to art installations and thrift stores. Kids may enjoy visiting Cadillac Ranch, a modern art collection of 10 cars covered in graffiti. Visitors can contribute to the public art piece, so bring your own spray paint cans!

If you want to explore the outdoors, head to Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the US (after the Grand Canyon). A bit further is Caprock Canyon State Park, where kids will love seeing the bison roaming the park.

To unleash your more adventurous side, consider visiting Splash, a water park that is perfect for people of all ages. Wonderland Park, another amusement park, is another worthy option, especially for those with kids!

Where to Stay in Amarillo with Kids

We recommend Embassy Suites Amarillo or Home2Suites Amarillo. If you want to stay in Palo Duro Canyon, be sure to book a stay at Doves Rest Cabins.

7. Houston

For a fun-filled adventure, Houston is the place to be. Families love the Houston Zoo, which is home to 4,300 animals and more than 600 species. The Children’s Museum of Houston is also a fun place for kids, showcasing arts, culture, history, health, human development, science, and technology.

For science geeks, the Museum of Natural Science is a must-stop. There, you’ll be able to visit the Cockrell Butterfly Center and learn about beautiful creepy-crawlers. Future astronauts may love NASA’s Johnson Space Center at the Space Center in Houston. Here you’ll be able to see actual objects that were once sent into space. 

If the kids need an outdoor play space, head to Discovery Green where you’ll find a 12-acre park with a lake for kayaking and paddleboarding, an entertainment venue, and a playground for the kids. For something more calming, visit the San Jacinto Battle Monument and Museum where you’ll find the tallest war memorial in the world, standing at 570 feet.

Where to Stay in Houston with Kids

There are some great properties in Houston, including The Post Oak Hotel and Marriott Marquis Houston (complete with a Texas-shaped swimming pool). Another fun place for families to stay in Houston is Kemah Boardwalk Inn, located on the Kemah Boardwalk, a waterfront entertainment venue with carnival games and rides, and dining options.

8. Galveston Island

On the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston Island is great fun for families. Texans flock here for the beach, and there are both public and private options (usually associated with vacation rental properties). If your kids tire of the beach, head to Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark.

Other fun things to do in Galveston with kids are the Galveston Railroad Museum, Moody Gardens (exhibits are housed in three pyramids, each with a different theme: Aquarium, Rainforest, and Discovery), Pleasure Pier (boardwalk and games), and a dolphin cruise.

Where to Stay in Galveston with Kids

Family-friendly hotels in Galveston we recommend include: Moody Gardens Hotel, The San Luis Resort & Spa, and Grand Galvez.

9. Port Aransas

If the cool ocean breezes are calling, Port Aransas may be the relaxing vacation you need. Not only will you have the opportunity to build sandcastles with your family, but you’ll also be able to rent boats and head out fishing. Don’t miss Padre National Seashore with tide pools, sand dunes, and sea turtles (at certain times of year) that will keep the kids entertained all day long!

Where to Stay in Port Aransas with Kids

Vacation rentals in Port Aransas are a popular option. Take a look at Cinnamon Shore, Banyon Bay, and Lost Colony.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE MOST POPULAR VACATION RENTALS IN PORT ARANSAS ON VRBO

10. New Braunfels

New Braunfels isn’t far from San Antonio, but it offers a few different experiences. If your family loves exploring historic towns, you will enjoy the Gruene Historic District in New Braunfels. Want to try tubing in the river? Head to the Comal River, where you can spend the day floating. Schlitterbahn Water Park is also a great place to visit that your kids will love.

Make learning fun when you take your children to the McKenna Children’s Museum. For more animal-related entertainment, enjoy Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo!

Where to Stay in New Braunfels with Kids

Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village and The Resort at Schlitterbahn are great options for families.

For a state that’s known for everything being “bigger and better”, Texas definitely holds up. From giant amusement parks to huge national parks, families will fall in love with everything the state has to offer. A Texas vacation with kids will not disappoint!

Best Texas Family Vacations on a Budget

Texas is one of the most budget-friendly states for a family vacation, because so many of its best experiences are free or low-cost. Here are some easy ways to keep costs down without sacrificing fun.

• State parks over pricey resorts. Big Bend, Palo Duro Canyon, and McKinney Falls State Park all charge a small day-use fee and offer camping at a fraction of resort prices. Kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge at Big Bend for free.
• Free city attractions. Dallas’s Klyde Warren Park, Austin’s Lady Bird Lake trails, and Houston’s Discovery Green are all free to visit. The Congress Avenue bat flight in Austin costs nothing and is one of the most memorable sights in the state.
• Tubing on the Comal River. New Braunfels is one of the most affordable Texas getaways: rent tubes for the whole family and float the Comal River for a full afternoon of fun.
• Hill Country wineries. Many family-friendly wineries in Hill Country charge little or nothing for kids, and the playgrounds keep younger ones happy while parents enjoy the scenery and beverages.
• Self-guided historic missions in San Antonio. The four San Antonio Missions beyond the Alamo are part of a National Historical Park. Walking between them costs nothing and gives kids a real sense of Texas history.

The destinations that work best for budget trips are New Braunfels, Hill Country, and any of the big cities where free parks and museums fill a full itinerary.

Best Texas Family Road Trip Routes

Texas is made for road trips. The distances between cities are long, but the scenery and stops along the way make every mile worth it. Here are two routes that work especially well for families.

The Classic Texas Triangle (Dallas, Austin, San Antonio). This is Texas’s most popular family road trip route, and for good reason.

Start in Dallas for the Perot Museum and Six Flags, drive south to Austin for the bat flight and Barton Springs, then finish in San Antonio for the Alamo, the RiverWalk, and Morgan’s Wonderland.

The three cities form a rough triangle, so you never backtrack. Add a stop in New Braunfels between Austin and San Antonio for a tubing day on the Comal River.

The West Texas Adventure (San Antonio to Big Bend): For families who want wide-open spaces and night skies, the drive from San Antonio out to Big Bend National Park delivers.

Stop in Fredericksburg (in Hill Country) along the way for wildflowers, wineries, and the National Museum of the Pacific War.

Big Bend rewards the drive with ranger-led tours, the Rio Grande, and some of the darkest skies in the lower 48. Plan at least two nights in the park to make the distance worthwhile.

Key Takeaways

• 10 destinations covered: cities, beaches, parks, and Hill Country.
• San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas are the most popular picks.
• Big Bend: best for nature, families, and stargazing.
• New Braunfels: the most budget-friendly Texas getaway.
• Galveston and Port Aransas for Gulf Coast beach trips.
• Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons to visit.
• The Texas Triangle road trip hits Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio.

What are some good family road trips in Texas?

The classic Texas Triangle, connecting Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, is the most popular family road trip route. Start in Dallas for theme parks and museums, stop in Austin for Barton Springs and the Congress Avenue bat flight, and finish in San Antonio for the Alamo, the RiverWalk, and Morgan’s Wonderland.

For a more adventurous option, drive from San Antonio through Hill Country to Big Bend National Park for wide-open scenery and incredible night skies.

Where do most people vacation in Texas?

San Antonio, Austin, and the Dallas-Fort Worth area are the three most popular vacation spots for Texas families. San Antonio draws visitors with the RiverWalk and the Alamo. Austin is known for live music, Barton Springs, and Lady Bird Lake. Galveston Island is the top beach destination for families, especially during spring break.

Is Texas a good destination for a family vacation on a budget?

Yes, Texas is one of the most budget-friendly states for families. Free attractions include Klyde Warren Park in Dallas, Lady Bird Lake trails in Austin, the Congress Avenue bat flight, and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. State parks like Big Bend and Palo Duro Canyon offer affordable camping. New Braunfels is especially wallet-friendly, with tubing on the Comal River as the main activity.

What is the best time of year to visit Texas with kids?

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the most comfortable times to visit Texas with kids. Summers are very hot across the state, especially in West Texas and the Hill Country interior.

Spring brings wildflowers to Hill Country and is popular for beach trips to Galveston and Port Aransas. If you’re visiting in February, San Antonio and the Gulf Coast cities offer the mildest winter weather in the state.

What is Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio?

Morgan’s Wonderland is a 25-acre theme park in San Antonio that is the world’s first completely accessible park, designed so that visitors of all abilities can enjoy every attraction. It’s one of the most unique family attractions in Texas and a highlight of any San Antonio visit with kids.