Summary
Cities and towns in central Texas are ideal for family vacations due to the abundance of outdoor attractions and water-based recreation.
1. Fredericksburg
What started in the 1800s as a quiet town full of German-speaking settlers has evolved into the bed-and-breakfast headquarters of Texas. Fredericksburg accommodations range from typical B&Bs in residents’ houses to log cabins to sprawling apartments above the shops in downtown Fredericksburg. The town is still fairly quiet, and a few residents still speak German. However, you’re more likely to find a wine bar than anyone wearing lederhosen.
2. New Braunfels
The massive waterpark known as Schlitterbahn is the main attraction in New Braunfels, but there are also plenty of tubing opportunities in the rivers in the area. Grab lunch at the historic Grist Mill and then enjoy live music at the oldest dance hall in Texas: Gruene Hall. Moreover, another cool place to spend a hot summer day is Natural Bridge Caverns, where a short hike through the caves reveals amazing rock formations and unique creatures.
3. San Marcos
For more watery entertainment, head to the Aquarena Center in San Marcos. The delicate spring-fed environment has been wonderfully maintained by Texas State University. Glass-bottom boats cruise the river, allowing a peek at the thriving life underwater. Additionally, the downtown square is ideal for a spontaneous weekend trip, with several family-friendly restaurants and a beautifully restored courthouse. Ready for a little more adventure? You can also take a whitewater kayaking class in San Marcos or get some back-to-school shopping done at the San Marcos outlet stores.
4. Wimberley
If you’re wondering what happened to the hippies in Austin, many of them moved to Wimberley. This little artists’ colony boasts some quirky shops selling handmade crafts, paintings, and other artwork. The small downtown area also features several locally owned restaurants and bakeries. Two pristine spring-fed swimming holes await at Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole, perfect for cooling off on a warm day.
5. Austin
You probably already know about Austin’s live music scene and its famous downtown bat bridge, but Austin also offers a wealth of things to do with kids. If your vacation is draining your wallet faster than expected, there are several free kids’ activities to explore. An excellent spot for the kids to burn off some steam is the elevated boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake, which provides safety with high rails surrounding the walkway.
6. Round Rock
A few miles north of Austin, Round Rock is home to the Round Rock Express minor league baseball team. The team’s home field, the Dell Diamond, is designed with families in mind, featuring a large lawn area behind the outfield for picnic blankets during the game. Additionally, the amazing Inner Space Cavern is a short drive away, discovered during the construction of Interstate 35. If you need some bargain hiking shoes or swim trunks, be sure to stop in at Round Rock Premium Outlets while you’re in the area.
7. Bastrop
The Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort is one of the best spa resorts in central Texas. Situated amid towering pine trees, the resort offers activities ranging from golf to river kayaking. Although a wildfire in 2011 devastated nearby Bastrop State Park, the resort property still features a healthy pine forest. Be cautious when driving in, as Bastrop has some automated traffic light cameras that may catch you off guard.
8. Lakeway
The kid-friendly Lakeway Resort and Spa overlooks Lake Travis and features a two-story waterslide for kids, alongside a swim-up bar to ease the parents’ nerves. The city is just a short drive away from the Oasis Restaurant, known for its stunning sunset views. If you and your partner are planning a special event, consider visiting some of the exquisite wedding venues situated along Lake Travis.
9. Johnson City
Johnson City, named after a cousin of President Lyndon Baines Johnson, is home to the beautiful Pedernales Falls State Park. The park’s centerpiece features a series of low, stair-step waterfalls cascading over large limestone boulders. For history enthusiasts in the family, the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is located 20 miles to the east in Stonewall.
10. Lockhart
Barbecue is the main attraction in this small town. The top three contenders for the best barbecue include Kreuz Market, Black’s BBQ, and Smitty’s Market. Explore the area while digesting by checking out the three-story Caldwell County Courthouse, one of the most beautifully restored courthouses in Texas. For those wishing to avoid Austin traffic while attending events at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) stadium, staying in Lockhart is a convenient option, being just a quick 20-minute drive south of the racetrack.
