22 Best Resorts in Texas for Families
If you’re looking for a great family vacation spot, look no further than Texas. There are plenty of resorts to choose from, and each offers its own unique set of activities and amenities. You might be surprised at how many water parks, golf courses, and kid-friendly restaurants there are in Texas! Here are 22 of the best resorts in Texas for families.
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What Is the Best Resort in Texas for Families?
The best resort in Texas for families depends on your region, but the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines (near Austin) and the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa are consistently the top two picks for all-around family amenities, pools, and kids’ programming.
For a water-park-focused stay, the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine and Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine are the strongest options in DFW. This list covers 22 family-friendly Texas resorts across five regions so you can find the right fit wherever you’re headed.
Our Favorite Texas Resorts for Families
We are starting with the area closest to us because we are most familiar with the Dallas – Fort Worth area. Visitors come to Dallas for Cowboys football, the Texas State Fair, its museums, and amazing food.
People want to vacation in Fort Worth because it is home to several attractions and activities that appeal to people of all ages. From the Fort Worth Zoo to the Stockyards National Historic District, there are plenty of things for visitors to see and do in the metroplex.
Best Family Resorts in Dallas – Fort Worth
In addition, the cities boast a vibrant art and culture scene, with theaters, museums, and art galleries throughout the area. And for those who love spending time outdoors, there are plenty of parks and trails to enjoy. If you’re looking for a place for the family to spend time, make sure you check out the best family resorts in Dallas and Fort Worth.
1. Hilton Anatole
The Hilton Anatole is special because it offers a variety of services and amenities, including a restaurant, bar, fitness center, and business center. The hotel also has over 1,600 guest rooms and suites, making it perfect for large groups or families.
Hilton also has a spectacular waterpark, JadeWaters, complete with waterslides, a lazy river, pools, and a splash pad. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, you can get a ResortPass and spend the day lounging by the pool.
2. Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center
The luxurious Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center offers the biggest water park in the DFW area, complete with a lazy river, a sandy beach, and thrilling water slides, making it one of the strongest kid-friendly resorts in Texas for families who want a true water park experience.
Kids will love the supervised activities offered at the resort’s kids’ club, while parents can relax by the pool or enjoy a meal at one of the on-site restaurants. There’s also an 18-hole golf course and spacious accommodations for groups of all sizes.
3. Ritz-Carlton Dallas Las Colinas
The Ritz-Carlton Dallas Las Colinas is family-friendly from the moment you arrive, offering a playground, a pool, and a variety of restaurants that families can enjoy together. It’s also one of the more upscale options in the DFW area if pure luxury is your priority.
This family-friendly resort is convenient because it offers a shuttle service to and from Love Field Airport. There are also a variety of shopping and dining options nearby, making it easy for families to find everything they need during their stay.
4. The Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa
The Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa offers families a variety of activities to keep them busy. These activities include a golf course, spa, swimming pool, and more.
The resort also has a variety of dining options, so families can find something to suit their tastes.
5. Hilton Dallas Rockwall
Hilton Dallas Rockwall Lakefront is a great place for families to stay. There are amenities the entire family can enjoy, including:
- Children’s pool
- Playground
- Game room
- Movie theater
- Fitness center
- Business center
The hotel also offers many great dining options, including:
- The Dining Room – American cuisine
- The Lobby Bar – cocktails and small bites
- The Poolside Bar – refreshing drinks and light snacks
If you’re looking for a place to stay in the Dallas area, Hilton Dallas Rockwall is a great option. Families will appreciate the amenities and dining options, and business travelers will appreciate the business center.
6. Wildcatter Ranch
If you want that full Texas ranch and resort feel, then Wildcatter Ranch is well worth the visit. Spread across 1,500 acres of true Texas Hill Country land, you’ll find horseback riding, sunset trail riding, pony rides, clay shooting, archery, and much more all waiting for your family.
Families will find that there are a variety of guest rooms to suit all of their needs! This ranch covers 1500 acres, so you’re bound to find something for everyone in the family.
Best Resorts in Texas for Families near Austin
There are a number of reasons why families want to vacation near Austin. Some people want to visit the city’s world-famous live music venues, while others want to enjoy the city’s beautiful parks and trails. Austin is also a great place to visit for families, as many family-friendly resorts and activities are available. If Texas inspires you to plan more family adventures, you might also want to browse places to visit in Arizona with kids for your next getaway.
7. Omni Barton Creek
The Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is a AAA Four Diamond luxury resort located in Austin, Texas. This resort offers world-class golf, tennis, and spa facilities, as well as a variety of dining options. It also features spacious accommodation options, including villas and cabins.
8. Lakeway Resort & Spa
Lakeway Resort & Spa is a beautiful lakeside property that offers an array of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy. The resort features a large outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and tennis courts.
There are also several restaurants on-site, as well as a spa and salon. Lakeway Resort & Spa is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
9. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines
The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa is situated on 400 acres of land along the Colorado River in the scenic Lost Pines region of Texas. There are a variety of recreational activities, including horseback riding, hiking, golf, and tennis. It also features an on-site spa, restaurant, and bar, making it one of the most well-rounded family resorts near Austin.
10. Horseshoe Bay Resort
The Horseshoe Bay Resort offers family-friendly options that include a water park, miniature golf, and a variety of restaurants, all in a beautiful lakeside setting about an hour from Austin. The resort also offers an adults-only section that features a casino, nightclub, and spa.
Guests can enjoy a variety of activities at the resort, including swimming, fishing, hiking, and biking. The Horseshoe Bay Resort is located in the town of Horseshoe Bay, Texas, about an hour from Austin.
Best Family Resorts near San Antonio
There are a number of reasons families should consider vacationing near San Antonio. The city has a rich history and culture that is made for fun. There are also a variety of attractions and activities available, including theme parks, river cruises, and more.
San Antonio is situated close to a variety of other interesting destinations, such as Austin and Houston. This makes it easy for families to explore a variety of different areas during their trip. Here are some of the best family resorts near San Antonio.
11. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas
The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas is a family-friendly resort located in San Antonio, Texas. This property offers a variety of amenities, including a year-round outdoor pool, a lazy river, FlowRider wave simulation machine, kayaking, golf at Hill Country Golf Club, Toptracer Range golf bays, and newly renovated Windflower Spa. There are eight on-site restaurants, including a buffet and a steakhouse.
12. Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa
The Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa offers luxurious accommodation, world-class amenities, and breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country. The resort features two championship golf courses, an on-site spa, eight restaurants and lounges, and a kids club.
13. JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa has a wide variety of activities for children, including a playground, a pool, and a game room. It also offers special family packages that include discounted rates and special amenities like free breakfasts and welcome gifts.
14. The Resort at Schlitterbahn
Schlitterbahn is one of the most popular water parks in the United States, and it’s no wonder why. With over 70 acres of slides, rides, and pools, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
And if you’re looking for a break from the sun and water activities, the on-site resort hotel, The Resort at Schlitterbahn, offers a variety of amenities like an indoor pool, spa, and fitness center. Schlitterbahn Waterpark was voted the #1 Waterpark in the World for 23 Years.
Best Family Resorts near Houston
Houston is a great place to take a family vacation because there is something for all ages. The city has a rich history and culture, and there are plenty of museums and attractions to explore.
Families can also enjoy hiking and biking trails in the Houston area, or visit one of the city’s many parks. And for those who want to enjoy some time in the sun, Houston’s beaches are just a short drive away. If you’re already planning beach-adjacent trips, it’s also worth checking out the best family resorts in Florida to compare your options.
15. The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Woodlands Resort sits on 2,800 acres of land just a short drive from downtown Houston and is home to two championship golf courses, the Tournament Players Club at The Woodlands and The Woodlands Country Club. This resort also features a world-class tennis center, a luxury spa, and several restaurants.
The resort is convenient to both George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport.
This might be the perfect place to stay when visiting the Houston area. The resort offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for a relaxing family getaway or an exciting vacation.
16. Houston Grand Hotel – River Oaks
The Houston Grand Hotel River Oaks is one of the best family resorts near Houston, Texas. This resort features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a spa. There are also several restaurants and bars on-site.
The hotel rooms are spacious and have all of the luxurious touches you would expect from the brand. This property offers shuttle service within a 3-mile radius (it’s close to the Galleria if you love shopping), and there’s a spa and outdoor pool.
17. Isla Grand Beach Resort
The Isla Grand Beach Resort is one of the best family resorts near Houston, Texas. This resort features three outdoor pools, a water park, and a lazy river. There are also several restaurants and bars on-site. At Isla Grand Beach Resort, guests will find spacious rooms that are perfect for big families.
18. Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe
This hotel offers the perfect getaway for those who want to enjoy all the perks of a lakeside resort without leaving the city. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including suites and villas, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar.
Guests can also take advantage of the resort’s many amenities, such as a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and a spa. Margaritaville Lake Resort is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a relaxing weekend getaway. This is one of the most popular Texas resorts available.
19. The San Luis Resort
The new-and-improved San Luis Resort in Galveston will boast all-new accommodations, dining options, and amenities, making it the perfect spot for a romantic getaway or family vacation. There are plenty of daily activities to keep you and your family busy.
Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Texas
If you’re looking for a Texas all-inclusive resort, we have a few properties to recommend. Keep in mind that true all-inclusive options are rare in Texas; most resorts here bundle specific amenities like pools and water parks into the rate while pricing dining and activities separately. The properties below come closest to the all-inclusive experience.
And if you want to compare with destinations that do offer genuine all-inclusive packages, take a look at the best all-inclusive Mexico resorts for families.
20. Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine
If you’ve never been to Great Wolf Lodge before, then the one in Grapevine, Texas, is sure to help you understand what great resorts look like. This is an indoor and outdoor water park option, which is great for families.
There is an arcade, a ropes course, spacious suites, and family dining available. If there was ever a great place to take your family for a weekend in Texas, this is it!
21. Lake Austin Spa Resort
A resort that is well worth a visit is Lake Austin Spa Resort in Texas. This specific resort is great for those who are seeking a relaxing ambiance near the water. There are a ton of activities, including yoga, paddle boarding, and fishing.
**Note: This property only allows children 16 years of age and older.
22. Rough Creek Lodge
If your family wants a resort that offers endless activities, then Rough Creek Lodge is right up your alley. There is a zipline, climbing wall, fishing boat, petting corral, batting cage, adult swimming pool, kid’s ranch, and even fossil hunting. There is so much to do that there is no way your family will get bored!
Hopefully, you’ve found a new resort that might be perfect for your next family vacation. There are so many great options here; the problem is knowing which one to book first!
Quick Picks: Best Family Resorts in Texas by Region
Not sure where to start? Here’s a fast-reference guide to the top pick in each part of the state.
- DFW: Gaylord Texan Resort (Grapevine) for the biggest water park in the area
- Austin area: Hyatt Regency Lost Pines for 400 acres of outdoor fun on the Colorado River
- San Antonio: JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa for the best all-around family amenities
- Houston area: The Woodlands Resort for 2,800 acres, two golf courses, and easy airport access
- All-inclusive feel: Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine for an indoor/outdoor water park experience with no extra costs
Scroll down for the full breakdown by region.
| Resort | Region | Best For | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gaylord Texan Resort | DFW (Grapevine) | Water park families | Texas-sized water park with lazy river and sandy beach |
| Hyatt Regency Lost Pines | Austin area | Outdoor adventure families | 400 acres on the Colorado River; horseback riding and hiking |
| JW Marriott San Antonio | San Antonio | All-around luxury families | AAA Four Diamond; playground, pool, game room, family packages |
| Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa | San Antonio | Luxury and golf families | AAA Four Diamond; 2 golf courses, kids club, Hill Country views |
| The Woodlands Resort | Houston area | Families wanting space | 2,800 acres; 2 championship golf courses, luxury spa |
| Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine | DFW (Grapevine) | Budget all-inclusive feel | Indoor/outdoor water park; arcade and ropes course bundled |
| Horseshoe Bay Resort | Austin area (Lake LBJ) | Budget lakeside families | Water park, mini golf, fishing, biking; about 1 hour from Austin |
| Wildcatter Ranch | DFW area | Ranch-experience families | 1,500 acres; horseback riding, clay shooting, archery |
| Schlitterbahn Resort | San Antonio area | Water park fans | Voted #1 waterpark in the world for 23 years; 70+ acres |
Best Family-Friendly Resorts in Texas on a Budget
A family resort in Texas doesn’t have to cost a fortune. A few properties on this list offer solid value without sacrificing the amenities kids care about most.
- Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine bundles the water park, arcade, and ropes course into the room rate, so you’re not paying extra for every activity.
- Horseshoe Bay Resort offers a water park and miniature golf in a lakeside setting about an hour from Austin, with rates that tend to come in well below the big-city luxury hotels.
- Margaritaville Lake Resort (Lake Conroe, near Houston) gives you a lakeside pool, a relaxed vibe, and on-site dining without the premium price tag of a full-service resort.
- Hilton Dallas Rockwall is a smart pick for DFW families who want a pool, a playground, a game room, and a movie theater at a Hilton price point.
Shoulder season (September through November and January through March) tends to offer significantly lower rates across all of these properties.
Key Takeaways
- Best water park resort: Gaylord Texan (DFW) or Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine.
- Best budget options: Great Wolf Lodge, Horseshoe Bay, Margaritaville Lake Resort.
- Schlitterbahn: voted #1 waterpark in the world for 23 years.
- Lake Austin Spa Resort: adults and teens 16+ only.
- Wildcatter Ranch: 1,500 acres of true Texas ranch experience.
What part of Texas is best for a family vacation?
The San Antonio and Austin corridor is the most popular part of Texas for family vacations, thanks to a high concentration of family resorts, theme parks, and outdoor activities within a short drive of each other. The Texas Hill Country sits between both cities and adds lake resorts like Horseshoe Bay.
DFW is the best pick if you want a major water park resort (Gaylord Texan, Great Wolf Lodge) with easy airport access.
The Houston area works well for beach-adjacent families, with Galveston just a short drive away.
What is the nicest resort in Texas for families?
The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa and Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Villas are widely considered the nicest family resorts in Texas, both holding AAA Four Diamond ratings.
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines on 400 acres near Austin is another top contender for luxury with a strong outdoor and kids’ program.
For pure luxury without a kids’ focus, the Ritz-Carlton Las Colinas is one of the most upscale options on this list.
What are some good places for a family weekend trip in Texas?
For a family weekend trip in Texas, the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine is one of the easiest picks: it’s right in the DFW metroplex, has a full water park, and requires no long drive.
Horseshoe Bay Resort (about an hour from Austin) and Hyatt Regency Lost Pines (about 30 minutes from Austin) are great for a Hill Country weekend.
Margaritaville Lake Resort near Lake Conroe is a popular Houston-area weekend escape.
For families near San Antonio, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort or the Schlitterbahn Resort make for a fun two-night trip.
Are there any indoor water park resorts in Texas?
Yes. Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine is the top indoor water park resort in Texas, with both indoor and outdoor water park sections, so it works year-round, even in cooler months.
The Gaylord Texan Resort also has an indoor atrium area with family activities, though its main water park (Lonestar) is primarily outdoor. These two are the best picks if you want a hotel water park experience that isn’t weather-dependent.
Is Schlitterbahn good for families?
Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels is one of the best water park experiences in the United States for families, having been voted the #1 Waterpark in the World for 23 years.
The on-site resort hotel adds an indoor pool, spa, and fitness center, so you don’t have to leave the property. It’s about 30 minutes from San Antonio and 45 minutes from Austin, making it a convenient base for families visiting either city.
