In Texas, weekend getaways come with big skies, bigger smiles, and just the right mix of fun and stillness. Whether you're floating down a lazy river, roasting s’mores under the stars, or waking up to the sound of birdsong outside your cabin, these family escapes offer a chance to slow down and reconnect. They're close enough for a quick drive, yet far enough to feel like a true change of pace—for kids and grown-ups alike.
Best Family Weekend Getaways in Texas:
Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center
From the moment we stepped into the massive atrium at Gaylord Texan Resort Hotel , the kids’ eyes lit up—and honestly, so did ours. The indoor gardens, the lights, the energy—it was like Texas had created a wonderland just for families. I remember thinking, "There’s magic in a place that brings out the wide-eyed joy in all of us."
What We Loved Most: Floating together down the lazy river at Paradise Springs, laughter echoing in the summer air.
Our highlight? Dinner at Riverwalk Cantina, designed like San Antonio’s riverfront. I had beef enchiladas with house-made guacamole while the kids shared sizzling fajitas. It felt festive, fun, and absolutely Texan.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Grapevine, near DFW Airport
- Vibe: Grand, festive, energetic
- Highlights: Indoor atrium, water park, seasonal events, kid-friendly dining
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for water fun; winter for Christmas at Gaylord
- Cost: High-end resort pricing
- Address: 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, TX 76051
Cedar Hill State Park
Just minutes from Dallas, we found the kind of quiet you can only hear when the wind moves through trees. The cabins at Cedar Hill gave us a rustic, unplugged weekend full of hiking, s’mores, and no screens in sight. I remember thinking, "This is the kind of weekend our kids will remember for the rest of their lives."
What We Loved Most: Watching the sun set over Joe Pool Lake with marshmallows roasting and laughter drifting into the woods.
Our highlight? Breakfast cooked over the fire—cast iron scrambled eggs, sausage links, and cinnamon rolls warmed on the grate. It was simple and perfect in the way camp meals always are.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Cedar Hill, ~30 minutes from downtown Dallas
- Vibe: Peaceful, outdoorsy, rustic
- Highlights: Hiking trails, lake access, fire pits, birdwatching
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather
- Cost: Budget-friendly
- Address: 1570 FM1382, Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Foxfire Log Cabins
Nestled near Lost Maples, Foxfire Log Cabins felt like a return to something timeless. Our cabin was surrounded by trees, the river flowed just steps away, and the nights were filled with stars and stories. I remember thinking, "Sometimes the best family memories come when there’s nothing else competing for your attention."
What We Loved Most: Skipping rocks in the Sabinal River, toes in the water, time slipping by like a gentle current.
Our highlight? A picnic dinner under the cypress trees. We grilled hot dogs and made walking tacos with Fritos, chili, and shredded cheese—simple, silly, and so satisfying.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Vanderpool, near Lost Maples State Natural Area
- Vibe: Remote, peaceful, rustic-chic
- Highlights: River access, fire pits, starry skies, proximity to hiking
- Best Time to Visit: Fall for foliage; summer for river fun
- Cost: Mid-range cabin rates
- Address: 1101 Foxfire Rd, Vanderpool, TX 78885
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa
Set on a sprawling former ranch, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa felt like a family camp with luxury built in. The lazy river, the shaded trails, the big lawn where kids played tag while we sipped wine—it was effortless, warm, and welcoming. I remember thinking, "This is what a resort feels like when it was built for everyone."
What We Loved Most: Family bike rides around the property in the golden hour, our daughter’s laughter leading the way.
Our highlight? Dinner at Antlers Lodge. I had mesquite-grilled Texas quail with poblano cream sauce, while the kids devoured mac and cheese and warm rolls. Elegant for us, friendly for them.
Travel Tips:
- Location: San Antonio, near SeaWorld
- Vibe: Relaxed, family-forward, upscale Western
- Highlights: Pools, lazy river, kids’ activities, spa, golf
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for comfortable temperatures
- Cost: Mid-to-high resort pricing
- Address: 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa felt like the kind of place where you stop checking your phone without realizing it. Nestled between tall trees and the Colorado River, the resort offered everything—from lazy days by the pool to horseback rides and fire pits. I remember thinking, "This is the kind of place where every age has something to love."
What We Loved Most: S’mores by the riverside fire pit, with the stars twinkling overhead and everyone wrapped in blankets and smiles.
Our highlight? Breakfast at Firewheel Café. I had huevos rancheros with charred salsa, while the kids loaded up on waffles, fruit, and chocolate milk. It felt generous and joyful—just like the weekend itself.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Cedar Creek, ~30 minutes east of Austin
- Vibe: Nature-meets-luxury, family-friendly
- Highlights: River access, horseback riding, lazy river, spa
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for outdoor fun
- Cost: Mid-to-premium resort pricing
- Address: 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd, Cedar Creek, TX 78612
Where Family Time Comes First
From the Hill Country to the lakefront and everywhere in between, these Texas getaways remind us that the best weekends are the ones filled with simple joys—barefoot walks, shared meals, laughter echoing down a trail. Whether you’re chasing adventure or quiet, these spots give families room to breathe, explore, and be together. Because in the end, it’s not the destination—it’s the memories you make along the way.
More Family Fun in Texas