Texas is the second largest U.S. state and offers attractions for all types of visitors. The Lone Star State has many natural wonders, beaches, museums and historic sites. Are you looking for an affordable family vacation close to home?
Take a short drive across the border and try one of these top 10 family destinations.
Galveston Island has a rich and unique history, from devastating storms to the fall of the last Confederate stronghold, marking the end of the Civil War. Before the storm of 1900, Galveston was the second most prosperous city per capita in the United States. Downtown Strand was known as the “Wall Street of the South.”
History buffs can visit museums and tours, nature lovers can enjoy Moody Gardens, thrill-seekers can head to the Pleasure Pier or Schlitterbahn, and those who want to relax will definitely find a place pleasant to stretch out along kilometers of fine sandy beaches. There are plenty of things to do and plenty to eat, making for a fun family getaway!
2. The Piney Woods Express Steam Train Adventure
This four-hour round-trip train adventure will take you and your family on the journey of a lifetime. As you travel through the Piney Woods of Palestine, Texas, you'll learn about its 135-year history. Enjoy a ride aboard the Piney Woods Express Steam. a fully restored vintage locomotive from the 1920s.
Families fit right in at classic Texas ranches like Wildcatter Ranch in Graham,
Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country, Camp Fimfo Waco, Chalk Draw Ranch or
Chandler Ranch is just a fracture of ranches and resorts found in the Lone Star State. Kids will love horseback riding, jeep tours and the infinity pool. Parents can enjoy clay court shooting, archery and excursions to the on-site spa for an unforgettable vacation.
4. Big Bend and Guadalupe National Parks
Visit one of Texas' two national parks. For camping, hiking, kayaking, horseback riding or scenic drives. National Parks: The Guadalupe and Big Bend Mountains are where you'll find spectacular prairie wildlife, beautiful fall-colored foliage, canyons, boating, biking, and public campsites perfect for campers along the glassy waters of the Rio Grande.
A premier resort along the Texas Gulf Coast, oceanfront, on the southern portion of South Padre Island, and all major attractions. Featuring 10 acres of tropical foliage and on-site amenities like restaurants, a cafe, two swimming pools, hot tubs, children's activities, gift shop, nightclub and much more.
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, enjoy live entertainment 24 hours a day. Families can enjoy a great summer vacation in Texas' only tropical oasis!
6. Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
Enjoy thousands of artifacts from shipwrecks, fossils, and exhibits from the 1800s, and learn about the history of Corpus Christi and the Wild West. The stairs are piano keys that play notes as you go up and down, making them an ideal family getaway.
7. Natural Bridge Caverns in San Antonio
The Natural Bridge Caverns get their name from a 60-foot bridge made of natural limestone. The incredible phenomenon formed after a sinkhole below collapsed. The caverns are among the largest for commercial use in the United States and welcome tours throughout the year.
8. Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District
Enjoy Route 66! Explore this destination hotspot by taking the iconic highway. See what the American West was like, spend the day with family at Cadillac Ranch, and enjoy great food on historic Route 66 in Amarillo, Texas. Browse vintage shops, enjoy Cadillac Ranch, and eat at delicious restaurants and retro lounges along the way.
9. Kemah Boardwalk and Amusement Park
Museum of South Texas History: Edinburg
If a marine dinosaur and a 14-foot mammoth skeleton seem to captivate your kids, the Museum of South Texas History is worth a visit. This museum features artifacts and exhibits spanning prehistory to 20th-century Texas. See the formation of the nearby Rio Grande, locomotives from the industrialization era, and a 100-year-old prison that is now part of the museum structure.
ten. NASA Space Center Houston
Home to NASA's historic Mission Control Center, Houston is one of the only places where kids can get hands-on experiences with the astronauts and engineers who lead America's space exploration. Interactive exhibits, educational films in the theater and the original Mission Control that monitored Apollo 11's journey to the moon are just the beginning of what families can discover.
Things You Would Find in Every 90s-era Home
The telltale signs of a home in the 90s.
Gallery credit: Danielle Kootman
