• Why is Texas a great destination for a family-friendly getaway?
    • With its sunny weather and many kid-oriented attractions, Texas is one of the best states for a fun-filled family vacation.
  • What are some of the best waterparks in Texas?
    • Texas is home to some of the best waterparks in the country, including the famous Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Many resorts and hotels also feature their own private waterparks for guests to enjoy.

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1. Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center


Explore indoor gardens and enjoy family attractions on an exciting weekend escape.

Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center

© Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center

  • What makes Texas a great destination for a family-friendly getaway?
    • With its sunny weather and many kid-oriented attractions, Texas is one of the best states for a family-friendly getaway. Some of the best waterparks in the country can be found here, including the Schlitterbahn Waterpark, and many of the resorts and hotels boast their own private waterparks for guests to enjoy as well.
  • What amenities does the Gaylord Texan Resort Hotel offer?
    • The Gaylord Texan Resort Hotel boasts ten restaurants, a waterpark, and almost five acres of indoor gardens, truly embodying the saying that "everything is bigger in Texas".
  • Is access to amenities included in the resort fee?
    • Yes, access to all amenities is included in the resort fee. During the summer, guests can also enjoy a Western-themed waterpark with a lazy river.
  • Does the resort offer activities for both kids and adults?
    • Yes, the resort provides endless entertainment for children, but it also caters to adult guests. The hotel spa offers an incredible selection of treatments, and live music is played every night in the on-site nightclub.

Gaylord Texan Resort Hotel, 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, TX 76051, Phone: 817-778-1000

2. Brazos Bend State Park, Texas


Spot alligators and walk scenic trails on an unusual outdoor trip.

Brazos Bend State Park, Texas

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  • Where is Brazos Bend State Park located?
    • Conveniently located only 45 miles outside of Houston's downtown core, Brazos Bend State Park encompasses approximately 4,900 acres along the Brazos River.
  • What recreational activities are available at Brazos Bend State Park?
    • The park offers all sorts of recreational opportunities both on land and on the water. There are 27 miles of trails to explore, including a half-mile boardwalk across the wetlands. Visitors can also cycle through the forest, go on a geocaching adventure, or fish in one of the park's lakes.
  • Are there camping options available?
    • Yes, plenty of campsites are available for visitors. If you want to spend the night in a little more comfort, you can also rent a rustic cabin.

21901 FM 762 Rd, Needville, TX 77461, Phone: 979-553-5102

3. Cedar Hill State Park


Hike wooded paths and admire lake views on a quick nature getaway.

Cedar Hill State Park

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  • Where is Cedar Hill State Park located?
    • Sprawling along the shore of Joe Pool Lake, the Cedar Hill State Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • What recreational activities are available at Cedar Hill State Park?
    • Visitors often come here to swim, boat, and fish in the lake. The park offers boat ramps, lighted fishing jetties, and even a perch pond for younger children to fish in.
  • Is there an educational attraction at the park?
    • Yes! If you want to add an educational slant to your vacation, you can visit the Penn Farm Agricultural History Center. There, you'll learn about the history of farming as you tour a historic family farm.

1570 FM1382, Cedar Hill, TX 75104, Phone: 972-291-3900

4. Dinosaur Valley State Park


Look at real dino tracks and explore riverside trails on a fun kids trip.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

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  • What makes Dinosaur Valley State Park special?
    • Home to hundreds of fossilized dinosaur tracks, Dinosaur Valley State Park is a great place to visit, especially if your kids are crazy about dinosaurs.
  • Where can you find the dinosaur tracks?
    • Most of the tracks are in the riverbed, and although they can be a bit tricky to spot, you can pick up a map of the best places to see them at the Visitor's Center.
  • What outdoor activities can you do at Dinosaur Valley State Park?
    • The park has 20 miles of trails for hiking and biking. Equestrians are also welcome to bring their horses and explore the South Primitive Area.
  • Are there camping options available?
    • Yes! Campsites can be found in several different areas, although only some have electricity, picnic tables, and potable water.

1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043, Phone: 254-897-4588

5. Foxfire Log Cabins, Texas


Stay in rustic charm and enjoy fishing on an affordable summer retreat.

Foxfire Log Cabins, Texas

© Foxfire Log Cabins

  • Where are the Foxfire Log Cabins located?
    • Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, the Foxfire Log Cabins create a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
  • What types of cabins are available?
    • There are more than a dozen different cabins to choose from, ranging in size from cozy one-bedroom cottages to spacious multi-family houses.
  • What activities can guests enjoy at Foxfire Log Cabins?
    • All guests are welcome to swim in the property's spectacular swimming hole, go fly-fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the Sabinal River.
  • Do all the cabins have TVs?
    • No, not all cabins have TVs. However, if you're stuck inside on a rainy day, you can borrow puzzles and board games from the office.

117 Olsen Ranch Rd, Vanderpool, TX 78885, Phone: 830-966-2200

6. Camp Jellystone


Go swimming and meet Yogi Bear on an exciting family camping trip.

Camp Jellystone

© Iuliia Sokolovska/stock.adobe.com

  • What is Camp Jellystone known for?
    • Known for its family-friendly environment and many wonderful amenities, Camp Jellystone is the perfect place to take your kids for a stress-free getaway.
  • How many Camp Jellystone locations are there in Texas?
    • There are seven different locations throughout Texas, each with its own unique atmosphere.
  • What types of accommodations are available?
    • Most locations feature cabin rentals, RV sites, and tent sites, providing options for every type of camper.
  • What amenities can guests expect at Camp Jellystone?
    • The exact amenities vary from park to park, but they typically include heated swimming pools, mini golf courses, and exciting waterslides and splash parks.
  • Does Camp Jellystone have facilities for large gatherings?
    • Yes! If you're planning a big family reunion, the Coyote Ranch location even has a lodge that can be used as an event space.

7. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa


Relax in the spa and float the lazy river on a romantic couples weekend.

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa

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  • Where is the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa located?
  • What attractions does the resort offer for kids?
    • Kids will be delighted by the 4-acre waterpark, which features a wave machine and a waterslide.
  • What activities are available for adults?
    • Adults can enjoy the 27-hole championship golf course or relax in the resort's upscale spa.
  • Are there activities for the whole family?
    • Yes! The resort offers cycling trails, a volleyball court, and fun evening s’mores for families to enjoy together.
  • What types of accommodations are available?
    • Many of the rooms feature private patios or balconies. Families who want more space can also book one of the luxurious suites.

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251, Phone: 210-647-1234

8. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, Texas


Ride horses and unwind in luxury on a scenic spring getaway.

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, Texas

© New Africa/stock.adobe.com

  • Where is the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa located?
  • What outdoor activities are available near the resort?
    • The McKinney Roughs Nature Park is right next door, offering additional opportunities for outdoor adventures.
  • What recreational amenities does the resort offer?
    • The resort features a swimming beach, an 18-hole golf course, and a children's waterpark with a 1,000-foot lazy river.
  • What dining options are available at the resort?
    • Dining options range from an elegant fine dining restaurant to an old-fashioned general store selling ice cream and other treats.
  • Does the resort have a spa?
    • Yes! The resort features a beautiful on-site spa where guests can relax and unwind.

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa, 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd, Cedar Creek, TX 78612, Phone: 512-308-1234

9. Inks Lake State Park


Swim in blue waters and hike rocky trails on a cheap outdoor trip.

Inks Lake State Park

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  • Where is Inks Lake State Park located?
    • Located right next to a scenic lake on the Colorado River, Inks Lake State Park is only an hour away from Austin.
  • What water activities are available at Inks Lake State Park?
    • Boating and water skiing are two of the most popular activities. The park also has a no-wake zone reserved for paddling, where visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats on-site.
  • What land-based activities can visitors enjoy?
    • For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the park offers nine miles of hiking trails, a bird blind for birdwatching, and a fishing pier for anglers.
  • What are the accommodation options at the park?
    • Visitors can choose between cabins and campsites, many of which are located right on the water.

3630 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet, TX 78611, Phone: 512-793-2223

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