10 Best Summer Vacation Spots in Texas for Families

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​From coastlines to hill country, explore 10 family-friendly Texas destinations for your next summer getaway—plus tips to travel smart and make the most of the season.

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Family Adventures Start Here: Your Texas Summer Road Trip Bucket List
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Summer in Texas is more than just heat—it's a season full of hidden gems, natural wonders, water parks, and road trip-worthy towns. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full week of exploring, this list includes destinations that are fun, family-friendly, and unforgettable.
Here are 10 must-visit spots to spark your next adventure:

🌊 1. South Padre Island – The Ultimate Beach Escape
Known for its turquoise waters and family-oriented beaches, South Padre offers:

• Dolphin watching tours
• Sandcastle-building lessons
• Sea Turtle, Inc. rescue center
• Kid-friendly beach access and calm waves

Tip: Visit early or late summer to avoid crowds and catch the most affordable rates.

🌿 2. Big Bend National Park – Nature Like You’ve Never Seen
Perfect for adventurous families, Big Bend offers:

• Scenic hiking trails (easy to advanced)
• Star-gazing under International Dark Sky standards
• Canoeing in Santa Elena Canyon
• Desert wildlife spotting

Pack water, and plan for cooler early mornings to beat the heat.

🛶 3. New Braunfels – River Fun & German Roots
Float the Comal or Guadalupe Rivers, then explore:

• Schlitterbahn Waterpark (named #1 waterpark in the world)
• Historic Gruene Hall (the oldest dance hall in Texas)
• Local bakeries and schnitzel shops

Make it a long weekend with a river rental cabin.

🎢 4. San Antonio – History Meets Family Fun
Combine sightseeing with hands-on learning:

• The Alamo and Mission Trail
• San Antonio Zoo & DoSeum (children’s museum)
• River Walk boat tours and shaded strolls
• Natural Bridge Caverns and Safari Park

Great option for families who want a mix of cultural and outdoor fun.

🦋 5. Houston – Urban Exploration Done Right
Houston is loaded with indoor options for hot summer days:

• Houston Museum of Natural Science (with planetarium)
• Children’s Museum Houston
• Space Center Houston (interactive NASA exhibits)
• Hermann Park & Miller Outdoor Theatre

Stay near the Museum District for easy access to most attractions.

🎨 6. Dallas/Fort Worth – Big City Fun with Southern Charm
Split time between Dallas and Fort Worth to catch:

• Perot Museum of Nature & Science
• Dallas World Aquarium
• Fort Worth Zoo (ranked among the best in the U.S.)
• Stockyards Historic District (with real rodeos!)

Make it a staycation if you live nearby—there’s always more to explore.

🛥 7. Lake Travis (Austin area) – Splash, Sun, and Scenic Views
Rent a boat or paddleboard and explore the water:

• Zipline Adventures across the lake
• Volente Beach Resort
• Sunset dinner cruises
• Day camps or floating water parks

This is a great in-between destination for families with kids and teens alike.

🍷 8. Fredericksburg – Hill Country Getaway for All Ages
Known for its wine scene, but surprisingly family-friendly:

• Wildseed Farms flower fields
• Enchanted Rock hikes and cave exploration
• German bakeries and old-town shopping
• Family-friendly orchards and festivals

Consider staying in a ranch-style guesthouse or tiny home for charm.

🐠 9. Port Aransas – Small-Town Beach Vibes
Quieter and less commercial than Galveston:

• Mustang Island State Park
• Jetty fishing and dolphin tours
• Kid-friendly tide pools
• Golf cart rentals for beach cruising

Perfect for a laid-back, budget-friendly beach trip.

🎡 10. Waco – Small Town, Big Fun
Thanks to Magnolia Market and the Gaines family, Waco has exploded in popularity:

• Cameron Park Zoo & suspension bridge
• Dr Pepper Museum
• Magnolia Silos: shopping, lawn games, and food trucks
• Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum

Pair it with a visit to nearby Lake Waco or local hiking trails.

🧳 Travel Smart: A Few Light Tips Before You Go
While we’re focusing on the fun, it’s always wise to prepare:

• Make sure your car is road trip-ready (oil check, tire pressure, emergency kit)
• If you’re renting an Airbnb or vacation home, know whether your renters/homeowners insurance extends coverage
• Keep copies of ID, booking info, and a basic first-aid kit for kids on hand

Final Thoughts:
​Go Make Summer MemoriesTexas is full of family-friendly fun, whether you're looking to float a river, hike a canyon, hit a museum, or just sit back on the beach. This summer, make the most of your time together—and consider exploring a new corner of the Lone Star State.

🗺️ Want peace of mind before your trip? Contact Corin Insurance to double-check your coverage or get help planning ahead.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace travel advisories, safety warnings, or specific insurance policy details. Always consult your agent and follow state travel and weather guidance.