Texas is a place like no other. The second-largest state in America (we’ve got our eye on you, Alaska!), this is an incredibly diverse state. Whatever your family is into, you need a Texas family travel guide.
From Austin’s claim to fame as the Live Music Capital of the World to the larger than life luxe style of Dallas, you are going to find what you are looking for in Texas. A chance to unwind on white-sand beaches? Check. A dude ranch for your kids to learn to lasso? Oh, you know Texas has got you covered.
So, y’all, let’s look at some of the most kid-friendly spots in the Lone Star State in our new Texas family travel guide.
Texas Family Travel Guide: Theme Parks
Six Flags Fiesta Texas
If your kids are into amusement parks, Six Flags Fiesta Texas is an obvious pick. It’s got all of the bells and whistles that you’d expect from a world-class park. We’re talking rollercoasters, a waterpark, and live performances.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is designed for kids age three and up. You will find some rides with height restrictions, but there are ample options for very young ones as well. Parents will enjoy lounging at the water park, souvenir shopping, checking out the restaurants, or getting their heart-pounding right alongside the kids.
If your family is into Looney Toons, this is an especially good spot because you’ll find characters roaming around, ready to sign an autograph and pose for selfies.
Waterparks
If you come during one of Texas’ steamy summer months, a waterpark will cool you down. One of the top picks is Schlitterbahn Waterparks & Resorts, which has options all over the place including South Padre Island, Galveston, Corpus Christi, and New Braunfels. Splashtown, San Antonio is another top spot to beat the heat.
Texas Family Travel Guide: Learning Centers
The Space Center
The Space Center in Texas is home to NASA’s Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center as well as Mission Control– a perfect place for your kids to make “Houston, we have lift off” videos!
It is such an inspiring space that it is impossible not to have your interest piqued. Of course, for kids who are already into space, The Space Center of Texas is a dream come true.
Your little ones can dress up in an astronaut suit and see real moon rocks as well as other mind-blowing souvenirs from space. Take a ride in a space simulator to inspire your kids to learn more about the wider universe.
While some of the themes are more advanced, of course, but it is really a place that will suit kids age five and up.
Perot Museum and Arts District
Rocket crazy kids will want to continue onto the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas for interactive displays, and they can go on to create their own robot in the Arts District of Dallas.
Museum of Natural Sciences
The Houston Museum of Natural Science has an impressive new dinosaur hall along with a planetarium, butterfly house, and a countless array of cool interactive science experiences for kids.
San Antonio Children’s Museums
Another place that will get kids excited to learn is the San Antonio Children’s Museum, which is as much playhouse as it is a museum.
Dallas World Aquarium
For more underwater fun, go over to Dallas World Aquarium to explore more than a dozen different types of beautiful marine ecosystems.
Moody Gardens Galveston
Last but not least, the Moody Gardens in Galveston is another gem where you can explore the local ecosystem in a greenhouse, aquarium, and other science exhibits in Galveston.
Texas Family Travel Guide: Beaches
Texas is one of the most underrated beach destinations in the world! Galveston has gorgeous beaches like Stewart Beach, where you will find perfect spots to soak in the sun along with a range of beach activities for all ages.
Another dream destination is Padre Island. Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna Madre, you will find the very longest continuation of an undeveloped barrier island in the world. This National Seashore is a must. In South Padre Island, you can have a great time camping at Isla Blanca Park.
Texas Family Travel Guide: Camping and Parks
One very cool thing that any outdoor-loving family will be into is the camping workshops from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. You can customize your adventure and learn how to live outdoors.
Want to learn how to camp? Get a pro guide! The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has workshops all over the state where you can learn the fundamentals of outdoor life.
Want to set up your own tent? How about having the kids learn how to build a campfire and cook food at the campsite. They even teach kids how to play outdoor games and have no-tech fun. Best of all, they provide everything that you need. Check it out HERE.
What are the best events for kids in Texas?
No Events
