Planning a getaway with the entire crew in tow? You’re in luck—when it comes to the best family vacations in Texas, the Lone Star State delivers in spades. With its wild west charm, vibrant cities, expansive parks, and scenic coasts, Texas offers attractions for all ages. Whether your ideal adventure involves hiking, beachcombing, exploring museums, or savoring brisket under the bluebonnet sky, the perfect destination awaits.
We’ve explored the state to bring you a curated list of the 10 best family vacation spots in Texas, each bursting with kid-friendly activities, local culture, and practical travel tips. Let’s dive in!
1. San Antonio – History Meets Family Fun
San Antonio combines Texas heritage with modern, family-friendly excitement. Start with a visit to the iconic Alamo, ideal for all ages, then stroll the scenic River Walk. With plenty of shaded pathways, boat tours, and Tex-Mex dining at Casa Rio, downtown San Antonio is perfect for relaxed exploration.
Families love the San Antonio Zoo and the DoSeum, an interactive museum with STEM-based exhibits for older kids. UNESCO-listed San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is great for biking and picnicking. During summer, cool down at Aquatica—part of SeaWorld San Antonio—for splashy fun the whole family will enjoy.
2. Galveston Island – A Laid-Back Coastal Retreat
If your ideal trip includes sun and surf, Galveston earns a top spot on any list of best family vacations in Texas. Relax at Stewart Beach, known for lifeguards and gentle waves, or grab a beach umbrella while kids build castles in the sand.
Off the beach, Moody Gardens features rainforest biomes, an aquarium, and a discovery museum inside futuristic glass pyramids. Schlitterbahn Galveston adds thrills with water slides and lazy rivers. Don’t miss strolling along The Strand, where Victorian charm meets shops, cafés, and the Galveston Railroad Museum.
3. Big Bend National Park – For Nature-Loving Explorers
For one of the most underrated best family vacations in Texas, head to Big Bend National Park. Nestled along the Rio Grande, Big Bend is perfect for active families seeking outdoor adventure and unplugged serenity.
Trails like Boquillas Canyon are easy for little legs, while teens may enjoy the Lost Mine Trail. Stargazing is exceptional thanks to dark skies, and rafting or relaxing in hot springs provides something for everyone. Watch for desert wildlife and explore historic sights like the Castolon District. Stay in rustic cabins or nearby towns such as Terlingua.
4. Austin – Music, Art, and Outdoor Fun
Austin blends quirky vibes with great outdoor spaces—earning it a place among the best family vacations in Texas. Visit Zilker Park for train rides, paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, or simply enjoy a shaded picnic. Nearby Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring-fed favorite for cooling off.
Explore vibrant murals throughout downtown and catch live, kid-friendly music at ACL Live’s Morning Music series. Thinkery, Austin’s innovative children’s museum, is a must-visit on hot afternoons. Don’t miss the HOPE Outdoor Gallery, a colorful and creative family photo spot.
5. Fredericksburg – A Hill Country Escape with German Charm
Located in scenic Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg offers a slower pace and rich German culture. Wildseed Farms bursts into bloom in spring, making it the perfect photo-worthy stop for families.
Try schnitzel and pretzels on Main Street and visit the National Museum of the Pacific War for captivating exhibits. Hike Enchanted Rock for panoramic views—great for slightly older kids with supervision. Accommodations range from charming B&Bs to family-friendly cabins at Jellystone Park, which features a water zone and mini-golf.
6. Dallas – Urban Excitement Meets Family Fun
Dallas is more than high-rises; it’s packed with family attractions. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science delights kids with robotics, gems, and dinosaur exhibits. The Dallas World Aquarium surprises with its tropical habitats and fascinating creatures.
Ride the free trolley to Klyde Warren Park, home to food trucks, splash pads, and games. Visit the Texas Discovery Gardens for butterfly encounters or catch seasonal excitement at the State Fair of Texas—with rides, exhibits, and oversized corndogs galore.
7. South Padre Island – A Beach Lover’s Paradise
For coastal family fun, South Padre Island offers one of the best family vacations in Texas. Gentle Gulf waves, clean beaches, and sunny skies make it a favorite for swimming and sandcastle-making.
Kids love visiting Sea Turtle, Inc., where they learn about conservation and meet rescued sea turtles. Pirate cruises like the Black Dragon add swashbuckling excitement. Don’t miss Beach Park at Isla Blanca for water slides and lazy rivers or take a dolphin cruise to see marine life in action.
8. Waco – Hidden Gems and Educational Fun
Midway between Dallas and Austin, Waco surprises with attractions suited for every age. Families flock to the Waco Mammoth National Monument for fossil digs and prehistoric fun. Cameron Park Zoo charms with winding paths and a solid mix of exotic animals.
Discover hands-on science and local history at the Mayborn Museum on Baylor’s campus. For outdoor fun, cross the historic Waco Suspension Bridge or explore the award-winning Waco Sculpture Zoo—both budget-friendly and memorable stops.
9. New Braunfels – River Rides and Historic Sights
New Braunfels sits amid Hill Country trees and river bends, making it a go-to for warm-weather escapes. Schlitterbahn is the crown jewel with thrilling water rides and relaxing tubes. Prefer nature? Float lazily down the Comal or Guadalupe Rivers.
Nearby Gruene Historic District hosts live music at Gruene Hall and down-home eats at The Gristmill. Don’t miss Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo for a surprisingly extensive collection of reptiles, big cats, and barn animals—all in a bite-sized setting.
10. Amarillo – Americana with a Texas Twist
If a West Texas road trip calls your name, Amarillo delivers classic Route 66 charm. Spray paint the iconic Cadillac Ranch sculptures or explore the awe-inspiring Palo Duro Canyon. Hike the red rock trails or catch the family-friendly outdoor musical “Texas.”
Add in retro fun at Wonderland Amusement Park and equine heritage at the Quarter Horse Museum for a full day of exploration. Round it all out at Big Texan Steak Ranch—whether you’re tackling the 72-ounce steak or just there for dessert.
Plan Your Best-Ever Texas Getaway
From coastal days to canyon hikes, the best family vacations in Texas serve up memories that last a lifetime. With activities for every interest and age group, it’s easy to tailor the ideal escape. Whether you’re taking in the Hill Country bloom, chasing music in Austin, or kayaking the Rio Grande, Texas offers everything you need for an unforgettable family adventure.
