Escape the City: Weekend Trips for Families from Houston
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will have the whole family jumping for joy! Houston may be a bustling city, but just beyond its borders lie a plethora of weekend getaway options that are perfect for families.
From thrilling theme parks to scenic outdoor escapes, these nearby destinations offer endless opportunities for bonding, exploring, and making memories together.
So buckle up, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on an epic weekend trip that will leave your family smiling from ear to ear!
Austin, Texas
Getting there: To reach Austin from Houston, hop on I-10 W and continue onto US-290 W.
Travel Time: 2 hours to 2.5 hours
You can start your adventure at Zilker Metropolitan Park, an urban park featuring the Austin Nature and Science Center and the renowned Barton Springs Pool, where you can take a refreshing swim.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a hike or bike ride along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake offers breathtaking views of the lake and its surrounding beauty.
You can hike up Mount Bonnell, the highest point in Austin, for panoramic city views.
Your whole family can learn about Texas history and government with a visit to the Texas State Capitol, where you can take a guided tour and The Bullock Texas State History Museum with interactive exhibits, artifacts, and even film showings.
For a hands-on experience, you can head to Thinkery, a children’s museum with engaging exhibits and educational activities for all ages.
Animal encounters and entertainment are plentiful in Austin at the Austin Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with furry friends or feed goats.
The Austin Aquarium offers an underwater adventure, with interactive exhibits and touch tanks that allow you to explore a diverse array of marine life.
For a last hurrah, you can cap off the trip at Austin’s Park, an amusement park featuring go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games, and our favorite pizza buffet.
Austin’s culinary scene is a treat for food-loving folks. You can explore South Congress Avenue, known for its eclectic shops and trendy boutiques, and indulge in a variety of food options. The burgers and pancakes at the Magnolia Cafe won’t disappoint.
Pro Tip:
The Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival is the biggest music festival in the city held annually every October. If you enjoy live shows and performances, you should definitely try to time your trip to be able to attend the 2-weekend event.
Brazos Bend State Park
Getting there: Located southwest of Houston, Brazos Bend State Park is easily accessible by taking US-59 S and then US-90 ALT W.
Travel Time: 45 minutes to 60 minutes
Located just outside of Houston, Brazos Bend State Park is a natural oasis that offers the perfect weekend escape for families. This expansive park is known for its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and abundant recreational opportunities.
You can take your family on a hike along one of the park’s picturesque trails, like the Creekfield Lake Nature Trail or the 40 Acre Lake Trail or bring your bikes for a family-friendly ride along the park’s designated trails.
Along the way, you’ll encounter trees, lakes, and marshes, for exploration and birdwatching. Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s famous residents, the American alligators, which can often be spotted basking in the sun near the water’s edge.
For a unique experience, you can try a guided nature walk or join one of the park’s educational programs, where knowledgeable rangers will teach you about the park’s ecosystem, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
You can even participate in interactive activities, like geocaching or stargazing, for a hands-on learning experience.
For some water activities, you can cast your fishing line in one of the park’s stocked lakes, rent a canoe or kayak to explore the waterways
There are also picnic areas and playgrounds where you can enjoy lunch or let the kids burn off some energy. Camping is a popular option for families looking to extend their stay.
Pro Tip:
The park offers a variety of campsites, including tent sites, RV sites, and screened shelters for some overnight fun. Bring tents, blankets, and bug spray, so you can wake up to the sounds of birds chirping and the serenity of the park.
Corpus Christi
Getting there: To reach Corpus Christi from Houston, take US-59 S to Victoria, then continue on US-77 S.
Travel Time: 3.5 hours to 4 hours
If you’re always looking for a beach escape like we are, a weekend trip to Corpus Christi makes for a very memorable weekend getaway with your family. This vibrant city on the Gulf of Mexico offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and attractions that cater to all ages.
You can start your adventure with a visit to the iconic Padre Island National Seashore, where you can soak up the sun, build sandcastles, and take dips in the clear blue waters. It’s the ideal spot for beachcombing, kite-flying, and even birdwatching.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles that nest along the shores.
For a dose of marine exploration, you can head to the Texas State Aquarium, where your family can discover fascinating underwater worlds, from interactive exhibits showcasing marine life from the Gulf of Mexico to thrilling dolphin and sea lion shows.
Don’t miss the opportunity to touch stingrays or feed the birds at the popular Hawn Wild Flight Theater.
To delve into the city’s history, you and the fam can make your way to the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay. This aircraft carrier turned museum invites you to step aboard and explore its exhibits like a flight deck, engine room, and interactive displays.
Kids will love the immersive Escape Room Challenge and the chance to take flight in the Virtual Battle Stations simulator.
For a unique family adventure, check out the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, where you can learn about the region’s natural history, look at dinosaur fossils, and participate in interactive science experiments.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to indulge in the city’s renowned seafood cuisine. We recommend heading to one of the waterfront restaurants along the Corpus Christi Bay. Doc’s Seafood and Steaks is our personal favorite with their crab stuffed flounder!
Dallas
Getting there: Head north from Houston on I-45 N to reach Dallas.
Travel Time: 3 hours to 3.5 hours
A family-friendly weekend adventure to the vibrant city of Dallas, will leave you with an appreciation for the perfect blend of culture and entertainment the city offers.
Your exploration can start at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, a world-class museum that offers exhibits like the T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall, where you can come face-to-face with dinosaur fossils.
For astronomy enthusiasts, you can gaze at the stars in the planetarium or if you’re more into shows like we are, you can catch a thrilling 3D movie in the state-of-the-art theater.
Next, you and the kids can make your way to the Dallas Zoo, one of the oldest and largest zoos in Texas. With over 2,000 animals representing various species from around the world, this zoo promises an unforgettable wildlife experience.
The kids can watch lions roam, be entertained by the penguins, and get up close and personal with giraffes during feeding sessions. Kids will also love the Children’s Zoo, where they can interact with farm animals and explore the Nature Exchange exhibit.
For a dose of Texan history and culture, head to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Located in the former Texas School Book Depository, this museum chronicles the life, assassination, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
You can Indulge your little ones’ imagination at the Dallas World Aquarium, a unique combination of aquarium and zoo. They can walk through recreated habitats like rainforests, coastal ecosystems, and marine environments.
They can see everything from sloths and monkeys to manatees and sharks, all in one place. The aquarium also offers educational presentations and feeding sessions.
You can cap off your Dallas adventure with a visit to Klyde Warren Park, an urban oasis in the heart of the city. This vibrant park offers a range of family-friendly activities, including playgrounds, a splash pad, and interactive installations.
Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting during the summer months, consider exploring the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, where you can admire beautiful gardens, participate in family activities, and even catch an outdoor concert.
Fredericksburg
Getting there: To get to Fredericksburg from Houston, take US-290 W and continue until you reach Fredericksburg.
Travel Time: 4 hours to 4.5 hours
The town of Fredericksburg makes for a delightful weekend getaway with your family. Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, this picturesque destination offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and small-town charm.
Main Street, lined with quaint shops, galleries, and eateries can have you discovering treasures at local boutiques, browsing through art galleries showcasing local talent, and indulging in delicious treats at charming bakeries and candy stores.
Kids will love the old-fashioned candy shops and toy stores, where they can find nostalgic treats and fun souvenirs.
No visit to Fredericksburg is complete without experiencing the region’s rich German heritage. You can take a trip to the Pioneer Museum Complex, where you can step back in time and explore historic buildings that tell the story of early settlers.
Kids will enjoy seeing the one-room schoolhouse and pioneer log cabins, giving them a glimpse into the past. Don’t forget to visit the Vereins Kirche Museum, a replica of the town’s original German community gathering house.
For a breath of fresh air, the family can enjoy the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Lace up your hiking boots and go on a hike to the summit of Enchanted Rock, a massive pink granite dome that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
To add history to your trip, make a visit to the National Museum of the Pacific War in the childhood home of Admiral Chester Nimitz, this museum offers interactive exhibits, artifacts, and displays that highlight the events and impact of World War II in the Pacific.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some of the local wines at the wineries and vineyards in Fredericksburg. Hye Meadow Winery is one of our most recommended ones for their extensive range of wines and the friendly donkeys the kids can feed and ride!
Galveston
Getting there: Simply take I-45 S, and you’ll reach Galveston Island.
Travel Time: 60 minutes
The sunny shores of Galveston, a vibrant coastal city that offers a mix of relaxation, entertainment, and coastal charm. Located just a short drive from Houston, Galveston is a popular destination for families seeking a beach getaway.
The most popular spot in the area, the famous Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier should be your first stop. This iconic amusement park offers thrilling rides, carnival games, and treats.
The Ferris wheel offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, while the mini-golf course and arcade down below promise a day filled with laughter and excitement.
For a more educational experience, drop by for a visit to the Galveston Island Railroad Museum and explore vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and exhibits that showcase the rich history of the railroad in Galveston.
Kids will love the interactive displays and the opportunity to climb aboard historic trains. Don’t forget to take a ride on the Harborside Express, a miniature train that offers a scenic tour along the waterfront.
No trip to Galveston is complete without a visit to the beach. You can spend a day building sandcastles, splashing in the waves, and soaking up the sun on the shores.
Galveston has several public beaches, including Stewart Beach and East Beach, where you can enjoy amenities such as lifeguard services, concessions, and beach rentals or you can walk along the Seawall Promenade, a 10-mile stretch of views of the Gulf.
To add some nature to your trip, the family can head to the Galveston Island State Park. This natural paradise is home to diverse ecosystems, including beaches, wetlands, and coastal prairies.
You can take a nature hike along the trails, go birdwatching to spot unique coastal species, or try your hand at fishing from the park’s fishing pier. The park also offers educational programs and guided tours about the local flora and fauna.
Pro Tip:
For a dose of history and culture, visit the iconic Moody Mansion, a preserved mansion that belonged to one of Galveston’s most influential families. Check out the lavish rooms and the architecture of a past era. Kids will enjoy the interactive displays they have there!
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines and Resort
Getting there: Located east of Austin, you can get to the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines and Resort by taking I-10 W, then TX-71 W.
Travel Time: 2.5 hours to 3 hours
For a luxurious and family-friendly staycation, you can consider staying at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort, located just outside of Austin. This expansive resort offers a wide range of amenities and activities that cater to both parents and children.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the resort’s picturesque setting, nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country. The resort boasts comfortable and spacious rooms, equipped with lots of amenities for a comfortable stay for your family.
One of the highlights of the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort is its incredible water park, the Crooked River Water Park. Kids will have a blast exploring the water slides, lazy river, and splash pad, while parents can relax by the poolside and soak up the sun.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the resort’s proximity to the Colorado River and the surrounding nature trails. You can take a family hike, rent bikes, or go on a horseback riding adventure to explore the scenic landscapes.
The resort offers guided nature tours and even has its own stables, where you can embark on a horseback riding excursion through the picturesque countryside.
For some quality family time, you can go to the resort’s recreation area with mini-golf, a rock climbing wall, and a zip line. You can start friendly competition with a game of tennis or volleyball, or a round of golf at the award-winning Wolfdancer Golf Club.
When it comes to dining, the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort offers a variety of options from a casual to fine dining experience. Maverick’s Roadhouse serves up great chicken-fried steak and pork belly sandwiches.
Parents looking for some relaxation and rejuvenation can take advantage of the resort’s full-service spa, which offers a range of treatments and therapies to help you unwind. From massages to facials, you’ll find everything you need to pamper yourself.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the nightly s’mores sessions around the fire pits. Gather around with your family, roast marshmallows, and create the perfect gooey and delicious treat while sharing stories and laughter.
Kemah
Getting there: Kemah is a quick drive southeast of Houston. Take I-45 S, and you’ll reach Kemah.
Travel Time: 30 minutes to 45 minutes
Kemah, Texas located on the shores of Galveston Bay, Kemah offers a wide range of attractions and activities that will keep both kids and adults entertained.
Your weekend adventure can start with a visit to the iconic Kemah Boardwalk, a waterfront entertainment district featuring thrilling rides, games, and delicious dining options.
You can take a spin on the Boardwalk Bullet roller coaster or get a shot of adrenaline on the Drop Zone Ride. Don’t forget to indulge in some mouthwatering seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants after you try your luck on their arcade games.
If you’re looking to cool off from the Texas heat, the Boardwalk Beast, a high-speed boat ride that will have you zipping through the waters of Galveston Bay, is a great afternoon activity.
For dinner, you can take the kids to the Kemah Aquarium Restaurant, where you can explore marine life from around the world, see colorful fish, touch stingrays, and even feed the resident sharks while eating at their underwater restaurant.
The aquarium also offers educational presentations and interactive exhibits that are both entertaining and informative for the whole family.
To add a touch of adventure to your weekend, you can go on a family fishing excursion. Kemah is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, whether you choose to fish from the shoreline, rent a boat, or join a guided fishing charter.
Pro Tip:
For lulls in your itinerary, you can take the kids on a walk along the Kemah Boardwalk Marina, where you can admire beautiful boats and yachts. Enjoy the stunning waterfront views, watch the sunset, and breathe in the fresh coastal breeze.
Lake Charles
Getting there: To get to Lake Charles, Louisiana, from Houston, head east on I-10 E.
Travel Time: 2 hours to 2.5 hours
For a memorable weekend trip with your family, consider visiting Lake Charles, Louisiana. Located just a short drive from Houston, Lake Charles offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly attractions.
You can explore the great outdoors at Sam Houston Jones State Park. This scenic park boasts beautiful hiking trails, picnic areas, and serene fishing spots.
The family can hike surrounded by towering pine trees, spot wildlife in their natural habitat, or cast a line in one of the park’s tranquil lakes.
For some more water-based fun, the Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point is a gateway to the renowned Creole Nature Trail, also known as Louisiana’s Outback.
You can learn about the area’s unique ecosystems, including marshes, swamps, and prairies, through engaging exhibits and educational displays. The kids will love the hands-on activities and wildlife observation areas.
You can continue your adventure at the Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana. This interactive museum has exhibits on health where kids can walk through displays of body systems or walk through an interactive playground inspired by different biomes.
There are also parts of the museum dedicated to art where kids can explore different pieces and also experience creating their own.
No trip to Lake Charles is complete without experiencing the vibrant culture and cuisine of the region, so you can check out the Charpentier Historic District, a 40-block area known for its beautifully preserved Victorian-era homes from the 1800s to the 1900s.
For foodies, don’t miss out on the delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine at one of Lake Charles’ renowned restaurants.
From seafood boils and alligator nuggets at the Seafood Palace, to barbecue and cracklins at Famous Foods, there are plenty of Southern delights to savor. Don’t forget to try some traditional beignets for a sweet treat.
Pro Tip:
For a dose of entertainment and excitement, head to the Golden Nugget Casino Resort. This Las Vegas-style resort offers a wide array of gaming options for adults, while also featuring family-friendly amenities such as swimming pools and an arcade.
Lake Conroe
Getting there: Lake Conroe is just north of Houston. Take I-45 N, and you’ll reach Lake Conroe.
Travel Time: 60 minutes
For a delightful weekend getaway with your family, consider visiting Lake Conroe in Montgomery County, located just a short drive from Houston.
Start your weekend by exploring the pristine waters of Lake Conroe. Rent a boat or kayak from one of the marinas and embark on a leisurely cruise across the expansive lake. Enjoy fishing, swimming, or simply basking in the sun on the sandy shores.
The lake also offers opportunities for jet skiing, paddleboarding, and water skiing.
For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the W.G. Jones State Forest is a must. This scenic forest spans over 1,700 acres and features well-maintained hiking trails, perfect for exploring the native plants and flowers, as well as wildlife that’s local to the area.
There are 2 historic towns in the area, Old Town Conroe with the iconic courthouse square, art galleries and community theaters and Old Town Montgomery which is famous for being the place where the Texas flag was made and shopping centers. .
To add a touch of adventure to your weekend, visit the Margaritaville Lake Resort. This family-friendly resort offers a water park with thrilling slides and lazy rivers for the kids while parents can relax by the pool while sipping on tropical drinks.
Pro Tip:
As the sun sets, dine at one of our favorite waterfront restaurants overlooking Lake Conroe, Monty’s Lighthouse. Their flounder tacos are perfect to enjoy with the sunset views from their al fresco dining area.
New Braunfels
Getting there: To reach New Braunfels from Houston, take I-10 W and continue onto US-90 W.
Travel Time: 2.5 hours to 3 hours
Located just a short drive from Houston, New Braunfels is a charming and historic town that offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures, water activities, and cultural experiences.
The Schlitterbahn ‘s New Braunfels Waterpark, a world-renowned attraction, is a perfect summer destination with its water slides, river rides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and interactive play areas.
Also in the area, the Comal River is a must-visit. The natural river area features tubing activities down the crystal-clear waters. The gentle currents make it suitable for all ages, and a wide range of activities like canoeing and kayaking.
Our favorite midday activity here is having our packed picnic lunch at one of the scenic riverside spots near the Guadalupe River where the flow of water will eventually take you.
To delve into the town’s rich history, the Gruene Historic District has charming streets lined with unique shops, art galleries, and antique stores. If you’re into cowboy culture, you’ll love the decorations, food, and blue music blasting throughout the town.
As you visit the historic Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest continually operating dance hall, you can enjoy live music and dancing.
Don’t miss the opportunity to savor delicious Texas-style cuisine at one of the local restaurants, offering a blend of Southern comfort food and Tex-Mex flavors. The Adobe Cafe’s roasted garlic shrimp and their Diablo chicken rice are must eats!
Pro Tip:
Another must-visit attraction in New Braunfels for us is the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch where you can go on a thrilling safari adventure as you drive through the park and encounter over 500 animals from around the world.
Look out for the giraffes, zebras, and antelopes roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Sugarland
Getting there: Sugarland is a neighboring city southwest of Houston. Simply take US-59 S, and you’ll arrive in Sugarland.
Travel Time: 30 minutes to 60 minutes
Sugar Land, Texas is a fantastic destination for families looking for a weekend trip near Houston. Located just southwest of the city, Sugar Land offers a mix of attractions, outdoor spaces, and family-friendly activities that are sure to create lasting memories.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land has fascinating exhibits that showcase the wonders of science and nature, including dinosaur fossils, gemstones, and interactive displays.
The interactive learning can continue with a trip to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center where kids can enjoy 5 immersive displays. They can take on different jobs like businessmen, market stall owners, diner cooks, and more in these exhibits.
For some outdoor fun, head to Sugar Land Memorial Park, a 150-acre park that features walking trails, mountain biking opportunities, sports fields, and playgrounds. But, if you prefer to burn energy elsewhere, try the Sugar Land Ice and Sports Center.
The center has an all-year olympic sized ice skating rink where you can have fun with the entire family or sign up for skating lessons.
Named the sweetest city, Sugarland has a wide array of dessert shops from sweet drinks from Decadent Coffee and Dessert Bar, to baked goods like cupcakes, macarons, and cookies from The Sweet Boutique Bakery.
If you’re looking for shopping and entertainment, the Sugar Land Town Square is a vibrant outdoor plaza lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment joints where you can walk, eat, drink, and watch street performers at the.
Pro Tip:
For baseball fans, try to schedule your trips in the months between April and September to catch the games at the Constellation Field featuring the Sugar Land Space Cowboys.
Tomball
Getting there: Tomball is located northwest of Houston. Take TX-249 N, and you’ll reach Tomball.
Travel Time: 30 minutes to 60 minutes
Tomball, Texas is known for its small-town charm, with a variety of attractions like the Tomball Historic Railroad Depot. This beautifully restored train depot has antiques, memorabilia, and model railroads.
It also serves as the heart of the town and features shops, restaurants, and live music shows.
Don’t forget to check out the Tomball Farmers Market where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables and some artisan baked goods and knick knacks if you’re visiting on a Saturday morning.
If you prefer picking your own fruits, drop by for a visit at Matt’s Family Orchard where you and the kids can pick your own fruits like berries, dates, and pears. The kids can also enjoy a ride around the grounds on their hay truck.
For sports lovers, a visit to Burroughs Park is a must. This expansive park offers acres of green space, free to use sports fields for soccer and softball. The fishing lake, trails for hiking, pavilion for barbecues, and elevated boardwalk will keep the kids entertained.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, head to the Tomball Museum Center. Instead of artifacts and exhibits like normal museums, the buildings in these centers make up the collection of the museum.
Step back in time as you explore the restored buildings, including a schoolhouse, a doctor’s office, churches, halls, old home, and a country store. The museum often hosts special events and demonstrations too, so if you’re up for those try to sync your visit.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the Tomball German Heritage Festival if you’re visiting during the Christmas Season. This holiday event celebrates the town’s German roots with live music, food vendors, and cultural activities.
The Woodlands
Getting there: The Woodlands is a short drive north of Houston. Take I-45 N, and you’ll arrive in The Woodlands.
Travel Time: 30 minutes to 60 minutes
The Woodlands, located just north of Houston, is a master-planned community that offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, shopping, and entertainment.
The Woodlands Waterway (the woodlands waterway), a picturesque waterway that meanders through the heart of the town. Here, you can take a relaxing boat ride along the waterway or explore the nearby Waterway Square, outdoor plaza with fountains, live music, and events.
You can grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants in the square, and let the kids splash around in the interactive water features.
Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of parks and green spaces in The Woodlands. The George Mitchell Nature Preserve, a sprawling 1,800-acre wilderness has hiking and biking trails, and lots of plants and animal life.
The nearby Rob Fleming Park is another neighborhood favorite with a playground, picnic areas, and a fishing pond. The park also has a dog friendly area in case you brought the family pets on the weekend trip.
If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, you should definitely go to the Woodlands Mall and Market Street. These premier shopping destinations feature a wide range of shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
Cap off your weekend trip with a visit to The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, a renowned outdoor amphitheater that hosts live concerts and performances throughout the year. The collection of public art there is also worth checking out.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the annual Lighting of the Doves festival if you’re visiting during the holiday season. This event features a lighting ceremony of giant doves, live music, a set up for kids to play in, booths, fireworks, and Santa Claus sledding down the waterway.
Waco
Getting there: To reach Waco from Houston, take I-45 N and then merge onto TX-6 N.
Travel Time: 3 to 3.5 hours
Waco, located about 180 miles north of Houston, is a charming city in the heart of Texas that offers a delightful weekend escape for families. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique attractions, Waco has something for everyone to enjoy.
The iconic Magnolia Market at the Silos, created by Chip and Joanna Gaines from the popular TV show “Fixer Upper,” is a marketplace that features an array of shops for home decor and kitchenware, a garden, and a food truck park.
You can browse through the curated items for sale, sample the delicious food, and let the kids have fun on the spacious lawn.
Next, the family can head to the Cameron Park Zoo, a 52-acre zoo nestled along the Brazos River. Home to a diverse range of animal species from around the world, the zoo offers a captivating experience for animal enthusiasts.
Here, you can stroll through the exhibits, see animals up close, and learn about conservation efforts. The animals are kept in mostly natural habitats including a section that incorporates the Brazos River.
For a taste of history and culture, visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum where you can learn about the legendary Texas Rangers, their stories of bravery and law enforcement, and explore the interactive exhibits.
The museum also houses artifacts, memorabilia, and a replica of a ranger camp, providing a glimpse into Texas’ rich frontier heritage. You can also enlist the kids as a Junior Texas Ranger with an official badge and everything!
The Waco Downtown Cultural District is a fun place to go for some souvenir shopping. To close off the trip, drop by for a visit to the Homestead Craft Village, a self-sustaining community that feels like you’ve walked right into a bygone era.
Pro Tip:
Don’t leave Waco without a trip to the Dr Pepper Museum to learn about the history and legacy of the iconic soda brand and even sample some unique Dr Pepper flavors.
If you or the kids are interested in seeing fossils of Columbian mammoths and other Ice Age animals, the Waco Mammoth National Monument is another must-go.
