17 Amazing Summer Getaways in Texas in 2024

LOOKING FOR FUN SUMMER GETAWAYS IN TEXAS?

We can help! We’ve been traveling together since 2010 and have spent months exploring the South, including some memorable adventures throughout Texas.

If you’re looking for ideas for summer getaways in Texas for an unforgettable family vacation, you’ve come to the right spot. We love the grand land of Texas. It has vast, beautiful landscapes and so many diverse attractions it’s hard not to have fun in this big old place.

There truly is something for everyone here. Join us on this journey through these amazing summer-long and summer weekend getaways in Texas.

Summer Getaways in Texas

Whether you’re planning family adventures, romantic getaways, or simply seeking some affordable fun, we’ve got you covered with this list of the best summer getaways in Texas!

Best Summer Vacations in Texas for Families 

1. San Antonio

First on the list is the vibrant city of San Antonio. This place is not only known for its rich history, but it also offers a little bit of everything. The Alamo, the scenic River Walk, and theme parks like SeaWorld San Antonio make it one of the best summer vacations in Texas for families that we can recommend. It’s pretty amazing in the winter, too, so you’re set whenever you visit!

If you’re looking for something unique to do in San Antonio, rent an e-bike and bike the trail, visiting all of the missions in San Antonio. We did this during our last visit to San Antonio and had such a great time. You can either bike back to the beginning, or you can get an Uber or Lyft ride home.

One of our favorite places is the River Walk. The coolest way to experience this is by taking a sightseeing cruise along the San Antonio River. 

▶️ BOOK San Antonio River Walk Cruise, Hop-On Hop-Off Tour & Tower of Americas

2. Dallas-Fort Worth

If you’re up for a mix of cosmopolitan charm and cowboy culture, Dallas/Fort Worth is a must-visit. Between these two places, they have some amazing world-class museums to explore.

Or, if you’re feeling like immersing yourself in the authentic Texan experience, you can check out the Fort Worth Stockyards. My kids absolutely loved seeing the Texas Longhorns and watching the cattle run through town.

There is also the infamous Dealey Plaza, the site of the JFK assassination, for those who want to learn more about it. If you aren’t able to make it in the summer, Dallas in the spring is super fun, too!

▶️ BOOK JFK Assassination and Museum Tour with Lee Harvey Oswald Rooming House

3. Houston

The Space City has a lot to offer, from the Houston Space Center to the Houston Museum of Natural Science to the Houston Zoo. Honestly, these three alone will keep our kids entertained for days.

Also, there are the beautiful gardens at Hermann Park and the Children’s Museum Houston. The children’s museum in Houston is a lot of fun and one of the best we have been too. It is really big and has a large variety of different rooms and activities. It’s a great place to travel to with little ones. 

▶️ BOOK NASA’s Space Center Admission Plus Houston City Tour

4. Galveston

If you want a summer dose of beachy fun, you will want to head over to the Galveston Gulf Coast. This place is a charming island city that has stunning beaches and historic districts.

There are also plenty of attractions like Moody Gardens and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. Although, our recommendation is to take a Galveston dolphin-watching tour. These are honestly worth every penny, and we always end up having a great time with the kids! 

▶️ BOOK Baywatch Dolphin Tour

5. San Marcos

Nestled between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos is a hidden treasure. This place is known for its crystal-clear rivers, and it makes for the perfect summer months escape. We love tubing and kayaking here, but you can also rent out some paddleboards or just take a dip. 

And if you’re feeling like exploring more, the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment offers glass-bottom boat tours and has some nice hiking trails. 

▶️ BOOK Guided Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour of San Marcos River

6. Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi has miles upon miles of pristine beaches, wildlife, and water and outdoor activities. One of the best things you can do here is visit the Texas State Aquarium. It is such a fun aquarium with lots of great shows. When we visited my daughter volunteered to answer some trivia questions and ended up getting to take a special picture with one of the dolphins.

You can also take a stroll along the waterfront or head to the USS Lexington Museum and see some cool military artifacts. Our kids always seem just as fascinated as us to go to these kinds of museums just as much as we are.  

▶️ BOOK Corpus Christi: The Art Museum of South Texas Entry Ticket

7. Waco

Waco has become a popular destination thanks to Magnolia Market at the Silos. If you are not familiar with it, this establishment is owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines from HGTV’s “Fixer Upper.”

But there’s more to Waco than this. We know the kids will love a visit to the Cameron Park Zoo, and for the addict in us, the Dr. Pepper Museum is a unique place to check out. 

▶️ BOOK Waco: Fixer Upper Theme Bus Tour

Romantic Summer Getaways in Texas

8. Austin

Now, let’s dive into romantic summer getaways in Texas. Austin, the Texas state capitol, is not only known for its live music but also for its vibrant arts scene and mouthwatering food. Here, you can have a romantic outing exploring the trails or enjoying a picnic by Lady Bird Lake. And you cannot forget to take a dip in Barton Springs Pool – a great way to cool off with your better half this summer. 

▶️ BOOK Austin Downtown Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

9. South Padre Island

If you are more of a beachy, romantic escape kind of couple, head to the South Padre Island National Seashore. This barrier island has some stunning sunsets and a laid-back atmosphere.

You can do so many things as a couple here, too. You can take a sunset dolphin-watching cruise, go horseback riding on the beach, enjoy water sports, or simply relax in the warm Gulf of Mexico waters. This is the perfect place for a beachside couple’s escape in Texas. 

▶️ BOOK 90-Minute Dolphin Watch Tour of South Padre Island

10. Gruene

Gruene is a historic district near New Braunfels that exudes old-world charm in a small town. There is something old-timely charming about strolling along its cobbled streets.

You can also enjoy some live music at Gruene Hall and, of course, dine on the flavors of Texas barbecue. The Guadalupe River also has tubing opportunities for those missing water action. 

▶️ BOOK Gruene Historic District Brunch Tour

11. Fredericksburg 

Fredericksburg is nestled in the Texas Hill Country and is a favorite among couples – and for good reason! This place is best known for its wineries, boutiques, and German heritage. Coltin and I visited here as part of a couple’s trip we took to Texas, and the German food makes a visit well worth it!

It’s the perfect place for a pampered romantic getaway. You can go exploring the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and indulge in local wine and cuisine. We’ve even got some stellar Fredericksburg hotel recommendations ready for your summer getaway.

▶️ BOOK Fredericksburg Wine Trolley

12. Lake Travis

And if you’re looking for a more serene romantic experience, look no further than Lake Travis, near Austin. You can rent a lakeside cabin, enjoy water sports and boat cruises, or dine at one of the lakefront restaurants. Its stunning sunsets over the water are a sure way to set a romantic mood. 

▶️ BOOK Lake Travis Boat Cruise

Cheap Summer Getaways in Texas  

13. Guadalupe Mountains

If you’re on a budget, the Guadalupe Mountains have some incredible hiking and camping opportunities. You will want to visit the Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This place is home to McKittrick Canyon – a true natural wonder right in the heart of West Texas.

We have visited over 30 national parks, including the Guadalupe Mountains. There are lots of great hiking trails and great boondocking sites if you have an RV or tent. The Smith Spring Trail was our favorite hike, and the Frijole Ranch and Springs Trail is another fun area to check out.

14. Amarillo

Amarillo, in the Texas Panhandle, has some of the most affordable attractions in the area. For example, a few of our favorites are the uniquely eclectic Cadillac Ranch and the Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

If you’re stopping by Cadillac Ranch, be sure to bring some spray paint so you can add your own artwork to the cars. My kids thought this was the coolest thing ever! They also have spray paint for sale there, or you can maybe find a half-used can out by the cars.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is actually known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” And, of course, this place is also known for the historic Route 66. This place is a very budget-friendly adventure for those looking for Texas vacation spots that don’t break the bank. 

▶️ BOOK Historic Route 66 Walking Tour

15. El Paso

El Paso, with its rich culture and history, is another affordable summer escape. You can explore the El Paso Mission Trai (free), visit the El Paso Museum of Art (free), and take in the scenic beauty of the Franklin Mountains ($5/person/day).

I mean, it doesn’t get cheaper than this for attractions. But if you are feeling like doing a small splurge, a ghost town walking tour is a super fun way to spice up your summer adventures. 

▶️ BOOK El Paso: Sun City Ghost Walking Tour

16. Port Aransas

Port Aransas is a place that offers a laid-back coastal experience that won’t empty your pockets. This charming beach town has some of the most affordable accommodations, amazing restaurants, great fishing opportunities, and the chance to relax on the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico.

During our last trip through Texas, we stayed for about ten days in Port Aransas, camping on the beach (It’s free, but you do need a permit!) and in the state park there. It was so much fun! If you have a camper, camping on the beach here should definitely be on your bucket list!

17. Big Bend National Park

Last but not least, the Big Bend National Park is a desert paradise. It provides affordable camping and hiking options for those who need to budget.

You get to explore the Rio Grande, hike through desert landscapes, and stargaze in one of the darkest skies in the U.S. It’s a pretty sweet place to have some outdoor adventures and see some real Texan natural beauty on a weekend trip with the whole family if you ask us. 

Be sure to stop by Langford Hot Springs. It was our favorite stop in the park. It is a beautiful, natural hot spring on the banks of the Rio Grande River. We even had some wild horses stop by during our swim!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Can I Take My Kids in the Summer in Texas? 

For family-friendly summer vacations, San Antonio with its theme parks, Dallas/Fort Worth with a taste of Texas culture, and Corpus Christi with beach fun are some of our top recommendations. San Marcos also has some cool tubing adventures, and Waco is perfect for fans of “Fixer Upper.”

What is the Best Part of Texas to go to? 

The best part of Texas to go to depends on your interests. If you love history, San Antonio and its iconic Alamo is a must. For a vibrant city experience, Austin is the place to be. 

If you prefer escapes to the Texas coast, South Padre Island and Galveston are great options. And if you consider yourself a nature lover, you should explore the Texas Hill Country around Fredericksburg and Gruene.

Is Texas Nice in Summer? 

Yes, Texas is indeed nice in summer, but it can get hot! So be prepared for warm temperatures. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to cool off.

Whether you’re at the beach, in the Hill Country, or visiting one of the many water parks and swimming holes, Texas has got you covered. 

Why is Texas a Good Vacation Spot? 

Texas has a diverse range of experiences, from historical sites to state parks to vibrant big cities, tranquil countryside, and everything in between. It’s known for its warm hospitality, rich culture, and mouthwatering cuisine.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a budget-friendly trip, we promise Texas has the perfect vacation spot for you! 

Conclusion

So, there you have it—17 amazing summer getaways in Texas, each with its unique charm. Whether you’re seeking the best places to visit in Texas for families, romantic summer getaways, or cheap summer escapes, the Lone Star State has it all.

So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready for a memorable Texas adventure. We hope you enjoy your summer vacation!