23 Family Vacations in TEXAS (Amazing, Top-rated, & Unique)
The decreasing reports of a global pandemic have renewed expectations for a family vacation.
As a result, the number of people planning to travel has increased recently.
After a year of boredom, most of you are looking forward to a vacation that includes some element of enchantment and adventure.
Do you imagine lounging on the beach, near the pool, or in a secluded spot?
Or do you prefer hiking while enjoying the beauty of the surroundings?
This article will guide you through some of the most fantastic places in the world to spend a family holiday.
Sit back, get your notes, and include these destinations in your bucket lists.
Here are 23 extraordinary, out-of-this-world vacation ideas that will surely appease the wanderlust of everyone in your family.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Family Activities in Texas.
Family Vacations in San Antonio, Texas
1. SeaWorld San Antonio (Animal Encounters & Thrilling Rides)
Do you want animal experiences while on vacation or enjoy rides and attractions?
You can do wonderful things at SeaWorld San Antonio, like swimming with dolphins, petting penguins, and more.
You can also experience thrilling roller coasters and other remarkable attractions with your loved ones.
But if you are more of an observer who relishes more on presentations, events, or activities, you can still have fun.
This vacation spot offers new and intriguing animal presentations that will allow you to delve further into the fascinating realm of marine life.
They also celebrate annual events that they love to share with the crowd.
There are fun things to do all year round, from festive light displays to delicious cuisine festivals.
Address: 10500 SeaWorld Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251, United States
2. La Cantera Resort & Spa (Relaxing Oasis For Families)
If you dream of a relaxing vacation with excellent meals and service, La Cantera Resort is what you are looking for.
It features four outdoor pools, including an infinity pool and hot tub just for adults.
If you are not into swimming, you can also have an outdoor adventure on their golf course.
Also, If you have plans to visit other attractions, the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service.
This resort is the right place where you don’t have to worry about your children and personal space since there is a level reserved only for adults.
While fully relaxing in the spa, you can leave your kids to enjoy the supervised activities for kids aged 4 to 12 at The La Cantera Hill Country Resort & Spa Kid’s Club.
Address: 16641 La Cantera Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78256, United States
3. The Tower of Americas (Panoramic Views & Family Fun)
Take your adventure to new heights!
The Tower of the Americas is a 750-foot-tall in height and is situated in downtown San Antonio.
From its completion in 1968 until the Las Vegas Stratosphere Tower was constructed in 1996, it held the title of the tallest observation tower in the United States.
The tower ranks as the highest inhabited building in San Antonio and the state’s thirty-first tallest.
It offers visitors the best panorama of Alamo City.
So if your idea of a great family vacation is enjoying breathtaking views on a different level, you will surely tick this tourist spot on your bucket list.
You can enjoy the fine dining of the Tower’s Chart House Restaurant while admiring views from the Observation Deck.
If you have kids, they will enjoy the 4D Theater Ride.
Address: 739 E César E. Chávez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States
4. San Antonio River Walk (Historic Riverbank Stroll)
It is the heart of the city.
Enjoy the River Walk to unwind, have fun, and get back in touch with loved ones.
Take a stroll down the riverbank walks, dotted with establishments such as restaurants, hotels, stores, museums, and parks shaded by tall cypress trees.
Experience genuine San Antonio at this historic site.
Also, it would be best if you took advantage of a trip along the river.
The tour guides have so much information to provide, and the whole 30-minute journey is entertaining and enlightening.
Many of these boats are drifting throughout the River Walk area, so keep your eyes peeled as you walk around.
It’s undoubtedly one of the most common pastimes in the area.
It is also easily accessible on foot.
Address: 849 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States
5. The Alamo (Iconic Historical Landmark)
If you love history and vacations, list this spot on your next trip.
It was in the 18th century that Roman Catholic missionaries from Spain established the Alamo, a mission and fortification complex that would go on to become famous the world over.
You can’t take your family to San Antonio without visiting the Alamo, the state’s most visited landmark.
It is suggested to go first thing in the morning before it gets crowded with school groups and visitors.
Entry and exploration are free; however additional options, like audio and guided tours, can be purchased for a fee.
When traveling with teenagers or adults, an audio tour is the most effective approach to learning about your destination.
You will get a wealth of knowledge during the tour, both about the Alamo and Texas’s past.
Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States
6. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort And Spa (Tranquil Retreat & Family Activities)
Do you dream of a memorable experience, but it feels a world away?
This resort is sure to answer your dream.
It has an excellent children’s program that includes swimming, hiking, arts & crafts, and thrilling activities.
The resort also boasts a 4-acre campground, leisure river, artificial beach, and multiple pools.
In addition to the above, guests can enjoy the resort’s tennis courts, championship golf course, spa, and health club.
The main focus of the resort is tranquility and peace.
Thus, it offers the ultimate in relaxation and luxury.
While you’re here, take advantage of all the amenities to unwind after indulging in one of the specialty massages, facials, or nail treatments.
Address: 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251, United States
7. JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Resort & Spa (Luxury Resort With Kid-Friendly Amenities)
The resort offers scenic views and unparalleled luxury for all ages, with a paradise of opulence nestled in a picturesque setting.
Surely, the kids will be going home with an unforgettable experience.
Children aged four to twelve will love the resort’s exceptionally entertaining offerings since it has a kids club that can provide your children with various entertaining games, extracurricular activities, crafts, and performances.
It also features a waterpark with cascading fountains, whirlpools, and a lazy river.
Kids who love sports and adventure will love the 650-foot speedy river ride, golf course, and tennis courts.
Indeed, the resort features many other amenities that will come in handy for the whole family.
Address: 23808 Resort Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78261, United States
Also see our article on Romantic Getaways in Texas.
Family Vacations in Austin, Texas
1. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort And Spa (Outdoor Adventures & Family-Friendly)
It is located on the outskirts of Austin and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and spa hounds alike.
You won’t ever be bored with all the exciting archery instruction, beautiful horseback trail riding, local fishing, yard game contests, and retro arcade games available.
Have a soft spot for animals?
The resort has the friendliest miniature ponies, goats, donkeys, alpacas, little Belted Galloway cows, Kunekune pigs, and many more.
You can also have the luxury of enjoying a good round of games.
For example, you can compete with your friends and family in a game of gigantic Jenga, Hoops, or Beer Pong on the grass.
Enjoy your outdoor adventure while building a family relationship filled with unforgettable experiences, priceless laughter, and genuine love.
Address: 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd, Cedar Creek, TX 78612, United States
2. Cathedral of Junk (Unique Austin Art Experience)
If you want to try something new, this is for you.
It is situated in the backyard of a modest suburban home in south Austin.
It can’t be seen from the street since its structure camouflages from the sidewalk.
Vince Hannemann, who built it, is also relatively low-key.
He did not construct the Cathedral as a means of self-promotion.
Instead, he made it as a hangout place and for the sense of entertainment.
Since the Cathedral is built primarily from donations to Vince, tracing its development over time can be difficult.
However, he does confess that he is picky when choosing what object to place on the structure.
Given the size of Vince’s backyard, it’s hardly surprising that the Cathedral appears tiny from the outside.
After you step inside, though, its dimensions seem to grow by magic.
Address: 4422 Lareina Drive, Austin, TX 787
3. Barton Springs Pool (Natural Springs Oasis)
Relaxing in the spring can offer peace of mind and serenity.
Thus, take note of this next destination.
Barton Springs Pool, one of Austin’s most prized attractions, can be found within Zilker Park’s 358 acres.
The three-acre pool receives its water from 68-70 degree underground springs and is open all year.
The area around the Springs is federally protected because it is home to the critically endangered Barton Springs Salamander.
Every Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., the pool is closed so that it can undergo the thorough and meticulous cleaning necessary to keep the pool area safe for the animals and guests who visit them.
So be sure to visit the place on days that it is only open so you can’t miss the fun and adventure.
Address: 2131 William Barton Dr., Austin, TX 78746
4. Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail (Scenic Trail Through Austin)
One way to spend a vacation is to hike while enjoying the fascinating landscape you can see.
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail wind its way through the heart of Austin, Texas, along the shores of Lady Bird Lake, through office buildings, residential areas, sports venues, and historical landmarks.
The 1.3-mile gap along the south shore was completed in June 2014 when construction on the Boardwalk segment of the trail was finished, and the trail now serves as an alternative transportation route for expanding the downtown area.
The 10-mile path is Austin’s most well-known and frequently visited park, drawing over 2.6 million visitors annually.
The trail was built in honor of a previous mayor of Austin and his wife.
Address: First Street Bridge at Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX 78701
5. McKinney Falls State Park (Nature’s Playground & Waterfalls)
Calling all water enthusiasts!
McKinney Falls is a must-see for its beautiful swimming spots and convenient rock-to-sunbathe access.
It is located about 15 minutes from downtown Austin.
There are certain places where you can jump off the waterfalls into the swimming hole below, and there are also some places where the water is too deep to swim in.
This is among the finest state parks in the Austin region, and it’s a favorite destination for hikers, cyclists, and campers.
As you venture out to take in the sights, keep your eyes peeled for any signs of the local fauna.
The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, armadillos, and many different kinds of beautiful birds, and its flora is just as impressive.
Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744, United States
6. Bob Wentz Park (Lakefront Park With Watersports)
Do you love the scorching sun, the splashing waters, and the hot breeze of summer days?
It is a scenic meadow along the Colorado River.
With its barren environment and brisk winds out on the lake, this area is perfect for sailing and windsurfing, and it’s also one of the few places in the state where scuba diving is possible.
As expected, there is also plenty of downtime available.
There is a comfortable pavilion with running water and electrical outlets, BBQ grills, and covered picnic tables nearby.
Only a half-hour drive from the heart of the city!
Visiting the park every day from 8 a.m. till sundown is possible.
There is a $5 per day pass fee for adults.
However, children 12 and under are admitted for free.
Be prepared for heavy crowds on holiday weekends.
Address: 7144 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732, United States
Also see our article on Weekend Getaways in Texas.
Family Vacations in Houston, Texas
1. The St. Regis Houston (Luxurious Family-Friendly Hotel)
It is a 4-star luxury boutique hotel located between River Oaks and the Galleria in the heart of Houston, Texas.
It is well-known for its plentiful amenities, spa, excellent cuisine, butler service, and 10,000 square feet of event space.
Take advantage of the indulgence in American fare that changes with the seasons at The Remington Restaurant, unwind with cocktails and live music at The Remington Bar, and honor the tradition of Afternoon Tea in the cozy tea lounge.
Your children may taste luxury at St. Regis with their Family Traditions program.
After all, the program’s purpose is to ensure your children have a pleasant visit.
There are kid-sized robes, a step stool, and cozy slippers for your kids.
When parents want some time, the resort has childcare services and a relaxing swimming pool.
The resort is ideal for families with little children, especially those under six.
Address: 1919 Briar Oaks Ln, Houston, TX 77027, United States
2. Space Center Houston (NASA’s Space Exploration Hub)
The first Smithsonian Affiliate in the Houston area is coined Space Center Houston.
It is the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center and the top destination in Houston for international tourists.
Come see the biggest collection of space relics in the southwestern United States and learn about the ambitious vision and incredible past of America’s human spaceflight program.
Each time you visit, you’ll discover something exciting and different.
Space Center Houston features thrilling activities for visitors of all ages throughout the year, with over 400 space treasures such as piloted spacecraft, the biggest collection of moon rocks on public display, and many major seasonal exhibits.
Address: 1601 NASA Parkway Houston, TX 77058
3. Miller Outdoor Theatre (Open-Air Performances For All Ages)
If you love the arts and drama, you can spend your vacation in Houston and visit one of their known theater.
Regarding open-air theater in Houston, nobody does it better than Miller Outdoor Theatre.
From March to October, everyone can enjoy the shows for free.
This theater offers all genres, making it the most versatile performance space in Houston.
Pre-show picnics can be enjoyed on the hillside, or you can relax in the enclosed seating area.
It is an accessible venue that occasionally sells tickets for reserved seating under the tent.
It also has a BYOB policy, so attendees are welcome to bring their food and drink to the shows.
But, there is a ban on all bottles and containers made of glass.
Address: 6000 Hermann Park Drive Houston, TX 77030
4. Children’s Museum of Houston (Interactive Learning For Kids)
Visiting museums together with the family is another unique way of spending vacations.
This not alone builds familial bond but also inculcate learning.
A complete renovation and expansion of the Houston Children’s Museum have been completed.
The Children’s Museum is a playground for your mind and was voted the best children’s museum in the United States by Parents magazine.
The museum is set in a quirky Robert Venturi-designed building and features 90,000 square feet of creative, interactive bilingual exhibits for youngsters as young as newborns and as old as 12 years old.
The Wortham Foundation, Inc., Kathrine McGovern, and the late Dr. John P. McGovern have generously funded weekly free family nights, which are held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays.
Address: 1500 Binz Street Houston, TX 77004
5. Hermann Park (Historic Park With Diverse Activities)
Outdoor theater, a butterfly display, golf courses, a fitness center, a stunning rose garden, picnic areas, and a museum are just some recreational opportunities in Hermann Park.
It is considered Houston’s most historically relevant public park, donated to the city in 1914 by George Hermann.
Minutes away from Houston’s downtown, Hermann Park serves as a social and recreational center for the neighborhoods of the Texas Medical Center, Rice University, the Museum District, and other areas.
Park access is from the corner of Main Street and Montrose Boulevard.
The visitor entering the park is met by a statue of General Sam Houston, one of Houston’s founding fathers.
He directs the parkgoer toward the park’s many attractions within the park.
Address: 1700 Herman Dr. Houston, TX 77004
Also see our article on Fun things to do in Texas.
Family Vacations in New Braunfels, Texas
1. Treehaus Luxury Suites (Secluded Luxury With Waterpark)
Treehaus Luxury Suites are unlike any other resort because of its exceptional design and amenities.
It is a perfect location with a mixture of views and a secluded setting.
If you love the vibe of antique with a sprinkle of modernity, this vacation spot is you!
The place is filled with hand-carving on its furniture, walls, and countertops, which is a nice touch.
In addition, this secluded spot offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and the spring-fed Comal River.
But the fun never stops there.
It also has a waterpark outside.
Their rooms also cater to 4 up to 12 guests.
Hence, you will always be reassured if you have a big family.
Also, if you love cooking while enjoying the views, you can pick rooms that offer a full kitchen.
Address: New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
2. Riverbend Cabins (Riverside Cabins With Park Access)
Do you love the smell of campfire smoke, enjoy the country breeze as it causes shivers down the spine, or perhaps do you miss the smoky soft textures of smores?
Well, the Riverbend Cabins is the solution to your longing.
It is a great choice for anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind vacation rental that also offers stunning vistas of the Comal River and convenient proximity to a waterpark.
The Riverbend Cabins provide a private entrance into Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels’s Blastenhoff Section during park hours.
If you don’t want to miss sports while on vacation, you don’t have to worry, as this vacation spot is near the SGC golf course.
It also has easy access to the Yampa River, where fishermen can cast their lines, and you can have the opportunity to fish.
Address: 225-263 W Lincoln St, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
3. Resort at the Bahn (Family-Friendly Schlitterbahn Hotel)
Reminiscing the carefree days of your youth under a forest’s protective canopy, filled with the sound of children’s laughter, the smell of sunscreen, the sound of water splashing, and the natural calm that only summer can bring.
You can have this unforgettable experience at The Resort at the Bahn.
It is one of the first Schlitterbahn hotels and has a long, storied past.
You’ll find it at the Wavefest Waterpark entrance in the historic section of Schlitterbahn.
It offers a variety of different room layout possibilities across five different alternatives.
It has everything you can think of, from cozy common areas and multiple beds to fully equipped kitchens and laundry rooms.
It is perfect for hosting large groups for family reunions, business conferences, weddings, and other celebrations.
Address: 305 W Austin St, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
4. Comal River Cottages (Riverfront Cottages With Modern Amenities)
This place is the most highly recommended lodging option in the area.
It’s right over the well-known “tube chute” and directly adjacent to the Landa Park golf course.
The 330 feet of grassy riverfront with three sets of stairs into the spring-fed Comal River are part of the beautifully maintained grounds.
If you love modern touches to your cottages, you don’t have to worry since the room features wood floors, cottage-style bathrooms, Samsung Smart HDTVs, Keurig coffee brewers, quality furniture, and artwork.
If you enjoy barbecuing, the place also has two separate concrete patios with charcoal grills by the river for the whole family to enjoy.
The place also has the best view of Landa Park and Schlitterbahn Waterpark.
Address: 405 E Zink St, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
5. The Float Inn 3 (Convenient Family Getaway)
Pack your bags and let the Float Inn 3 provide the perfect lodging for your next getaway.
Float Inn 3 is the ideal spot for a holiday with the family.
You can go to Schlitterbahn across the street, swim the Comal River, or head up to Garden St. Bridge for a relaxing 30-minute cruising along the River that’s great for kids.
You can lounge by the pool or adventure in the breathtaking Hill Country.
With this many attractions, you may always want to stay!
If you’re looking for a convenient location to explore New Braunfels, go no further than the Float Inn 3.
Guests of this unit have private river access in and out of the Camp Warnecke Estates complex, making the Comal River an excellent option for a relaxing trip.
Address: 371 West Lincoln Ave New Braunfels, TX 78130
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best RV Resorts, State Parks, and Botanical Gardens in Texas.
Looking beyond Texas? Check out our article on the best Family Vacations in New York and Florida.