Family Travel

5 min read

Unearth Texas Gems: Top 20 Family Resorts for Unforgettable Trips

Saddle up, wanderlust families! Prepare to giddy up through the ultimate roundup of Texas resorts that'll make your hearts as full as your travel itineraries.

Tobi Miles
October 11, 2022

Texas is the second largest state in the nation and has everything from rolling vineyards to exciting beaches. This quintessential American destination draws in millions of tourists each year. Texas is located in the Southwestern portion of the United States and is famous for TexMex cuisine, the outdoors, and western culture. 

The average cost of a four-night trip to Texas for one person is $1,043. For couples, expect to pay at least $1,353 for a four-night stay. This excludes airfare. The average price for Texas’ peak season between September and March is around $1,359. Alternatively, traveling during the low season of April through August will set a tourist out about $731. 

Texas has plenty of enticing activities to check out. Some of the best include Big Bend National Park, the south shore along the Gulf Coast, and the rolling vineyards of Hill Country. 

The seaside Moody Gardens Hotel Spa and Convention Center is our top pick for the best family resort in Texas for a reason. It has plenty to offer beyond unique attractions and a luxurious swimming pool. 

1. Moody Gardens Hotel Spa and Convention Center

Credit: Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center / Facebook

Galveston is one of the most gorgeous seaside destinations on the gulf coast. The Moody Gardens Resort has excellent water views and exciting onsite and offsite activities. 

The best amenities on the hotel property include a swimming pool, fitness center, and marina. One of the most unique things about this resort is the pyramid attractions. Guests can visit the aquarium pyramid, rainforest pyramid, and discovery center. There is also 3 and 4D theaters and a paddlewheel boat. 

Dining at Moody Gardens is endless. They offer attraction, hotel, and golf course dining, with 12 restaurants in total. 

Accommodations at Moody Gardens include a range of spacious rooms, guest suites, and deluxe suites. They all come with comfortable bedding and free Wi-Fi. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center is approximately $1,256.

Address: 7 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554
Phone: (409) 741-8484
Booking.com Rating: 8.2

2. Horseshoe Bay Resort

Credit: Horseshoe Bay Resort / Facebook

The Horseshoe Bay Resort is tucked into an alcove of Lake LBJ in the Texas Hill Country. This relaxing destination is focused on luxury and experience. They often host events and festivals on their grounds and have plenty of year-round activities to entice any guest. 

Some of the premier amenities of the Horseshoe Bay Resort include a full-service spa and golf course, multiple pools, shops, and a supervised kid’s club. One of the best things to do here is to enjoy the expansive lake. The resort offers many types of watersports as well as waterside lounge areas. 

Dining at the Horseshoe Bay Resort is a culinary experience. The facility is dedicated to showcasing local produce and farm-raised animal products. Eight onsite restaurants are open and range from an upscale yacht club to a waterfront bar. 

Accommodations at Horseshoe Bay Resort are expansive. Guests may choose a variety of rooms and suites or rent a multi-bedroom condo. There is a resort community for individuals who wish to extend their stay. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at Horseshoe Bay Resort is approximately $1,476.

Address: 200 Hi Cir N, Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657
Phone: (877) 611-0112
Booking.com Rating: 8.4

3. Carter Creek Winery Resort and Spa

Credit: Visit Austin

There is no better place to experience the stunning rolling vineyards of Texas than at the Carter Creek Winery. This resort and spa is nestled into the Texas Hill Country and is a fully operational winery. 

Carter Creek has a packed events calendar and plenty of things to do every day. The best thing to do here is to take a winery tour. Choose one by vehicle or cable car to see the vineyard to its full extent. Of course, wine tastings and small bites are included. The resort is also home to a swimming pool, a full-service spa, and plenty more. 

A meal at Carter Creek is a wine-and-dine experience. Local wines from their vineyard and other parts of the Hill Country are featured on their award-winning menu. 

Carter Creek is dedicated to comfort. They offer a range of villas and hotel rooms equipped with private balconies, wifi, and comfortable bedding. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa is approximately $996.

Address: 4064 US-290, Johnson City, TX 78636
Phone: (855) 535-3123
Hotels.com Rating: 9.4

4. Canyon Lakeview Resort

Credit: Canyon Lakeview Resort / Facebook

Canyon Lakeview is a one-of-a-kind resort with a range of unique amenities to entice adventurous travelers looking for something different in their vacation. 

Amenities at Canyon Lake include a large swimming pool, a rocky beach perfect for enjoying the expansive lake, grilling areas, volleyball courts, and even a deer feeding ring. There are also nightly bonfires. 

Lodging at Canyon Lake is comfortable and rustic. They have a cabin feel and are the perfect place to bundle up on a chilly Texas night. The resort has private lodges, houses, and rooms available. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at Canyon Lakeview Resort is approximately $700.

Address: 872 Ledgerock Dr, Canyon Lake, TX 78133
Phone: (210) 787-1770
Booking.com Rating: 8.5

5. Flying L Ranch Resort

Credit: Flying L Ranch Resort

The Flying L Ranch Resort is dedicated to adventure. It is surrounded by the stunning wildlife of Bandera, Texas, and has an onsite golf course. The resort also has nightly Western entertainment, outdoor events, wagon rides, and nightly campfires with s’mores. 

The resort has an onsite restaurant that features the local products of Bandera. They also have an exciting dinner and a show feature. The Chuck Wagon Dinner Show is Flying L’s premier event and features a wagon ride down to the ranch’s ghost town, country music, line dancing, and a meal. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at Flying L Ranch Resort is approximately $876.

Address: 675 Flying L Dr, Bandera, TX 78003
Phone: (830) 796-7745
Hotels.com Rating: 8.6

6. Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe

Credit: Margaritaville Resort

The Margaritaville Lake Resort is a member of the famous Jimmy Buffett-themed resort chain. Their Osage Beach location has the vibes of the tropics in the heart of Texas. 

Some of the best things to do at Margaritaville include enjoying the expansive waterpark, golfing, going to the spa, and relaxing. There are plenty of lounge areas across the resort where guests are encouraged to rest waterside with a frozen drink in their hand. The resort also has a packed events calendar filled with live entertainment and family-friendly activities. 

There are seven onsite dining options at Margaritaville Lake Resort. They are all relaxed and have the laid-back feel of the islands. 

Accommodations at Margaritaville Lake Resort include a variety of lakefront suites and cottages. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at Margaritaville Lake Resort is approximately $1,088.

Address: 494 Tan Tara Estate Drive, Osage Beach, MO 65065
Phone: (573) 348-3131
Hotels.com Rating: 8.0

7. Lajitas Golf Resort

Credit: Lajitas Golf Resort

The Lajitas Golf Resort is nestled in stunning Big Bend, Texas, surrounded by mountains and nature. The rugged desert resort is the perfect place for adventurous families to enjoy the beautiful state of Texas. 

Some of the top amenities at the resort include one of the best golf courses in Texas, a gorgeous resort-style pool, and a 523-foot zip line. There is also a shooting range, a spa, stand-up paddle board activities, and an equestrian center. 

There are four onsite restaurants at the Lajitas Golf Resort. The best is Candelilla. This establishment serves authentic TexMex cuisine in an unpretentious setting. 

Accommodations at the Lajitas Golf Resort include spacious homes and suites. They have one and two-bedroom options and even two-story condos for larger families. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at Lajitas Golf Resort is approximately $996.

Address: 21701 FM170, Terlingua, TX 79852
Phone: (432) 424-5000
Booking.com Rating: 8.2

8. Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center

Credit: Grapevine, Texas

The Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas, is an upscale facility with plenty to do. This lakefront accommodation has exciting amenities like a water park and resort pools, a spa, a fitness center, and more.

There are nine onsite dining options at the Gaylord Texan. The best is Glass Cactus. This upscale dining establishment overlooks the lake and often has live entertainment. They also have an expansive bar. 

Accommodations at the Gaylord Texan include a range of luxury rooms and suites. Many have gorgeous atrium views of the surrounding resort. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center is approximately $1,996.

Address: 1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, TX 76051
Phone: (817) 778-1000
Booking.com Rating: 8.4

9. JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa

Credit: Marriott

The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country is a luxury 4.5-star hotel. The resort is known for its expansive waterpark and the River Bluff Water Experience. 

The waterpark has a range of pools, a 1,100-foot lazy river, and plenty of places to lounge by the water. There is also a fitness center, a manmade beach, tennis courts, a game room, and basketball. 

Eight different onsite restaurants are located at the JW Marriott. The best is Cibolo Moon. This establishment serves modern San Antonio cuisine highlighting Tex-Mex flavors. The resort is also known for its impressive selection of tequila. Visit the tequila bar for expertly led-tastings. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa is approximately $2,140.

Address: 23808 Resort Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78261
Phone: (210) 276-2500
Hotels.com Rating: 8.8

10. Wildcatter Ranch and Resort

Credit: Wildcatter Ranch

Wildcatter is a family ranch located in the heart of Texas. This adventurous destination aims to treat its guests like members of the ranch family and introduce them to everything that Texas’ natural features offer. 

Activities at Wildcatter include horseback riding, sunset trail rides, pony rides, horse care, and grooming lessons. Guests may also utilize the shooting range, attempt branding, roping, tomahawk throwing, clay shooting, and archery. 

The onsite steakhouse at Wildcatter is one of the best in Graham. The dishes are prepared farm to table and feature the local products of Wildcatter ranch. 

Accommodations at Wildcatter include a variety of guestrooms and cabin suites. All rooms are cozy and come with comfortable ranch-style bedding. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at Wildcatter Ranch and Resort is approximately $732.

Address: 6062 TX-16, Graham, TX 76450
Phone: (940) 549-3500
Booking.com Rating: 8.6

11. The San Luis Resort Spa and Conference Center

Credit: Booking.com

The San Luis is a luxury beachfront resort in the heart of Galveston, Texas. The 32-acre property has a range of exciting amenities like a full-service spa, fitness center, pools, cabanas, and nightly live music. 

There are four onsite restaurants at the San Luis Resort. These include everything from an upscale steak house to a poolside bar. The best is The Steakhouse. This award-winning restaurant has elevated flavor and delicious cuts of meat. 

Accommodations at the San Luis Resort are waterfront and airy. Guest rooms and suites come with breathtaking Gulf views. There are also villas and club-level rooms. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at The San Luis Resort Spa and Conference Center is approximately $1,236.

Address: 5222 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77551
Phone: (409) 744-1500
Hotels.com Rating: 8.6

12. The Vineyard at Florence

Credit: The Vineyard at Florence

The Vineyard at Florence is a boutique resort nestled into rolling lush hills. The owners opened the resort after a trip to Tuscany inspired them to share the Italian countryside with Texans.

Learn all about the art of winemaking at this pastoral resort. Guests are welcome to join in the process. The resort also has an onsite spa, pool, and fitness center. 

The resort has two onsite restaurants that both have farm to table dining and a fine selection of house-made wine. The tasting room offers expert wine tastings and pairings. 

Accommodations at the Vineyard include stately rooms and suites that have the comforts of the Italian countryside. They are rustic, cozy and come with all the modern amenities of a world-class resort. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at The Vineyard at Florence is approximately $1,336.

Address: 111 Via Francesco, Florence, TX 76527
Phone: (512) 572-7000
Hotels.com Rating: 9.2

13. Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas

Credit: Four Seasons

The Four Seasons is one of the top names in Resorts. Their excellent Dallas location is a stunning property with plenty to entertain the entire family. 

This nature-filled resort has amenities including a championship golf course, multiple outdoor pools, an expansive recreation club with a world-class fitness center, and an indulgent spa. 

There are five onsite restaurants at the Four Seasons. Their signature restaurant is Law, an establishment that aims to highlight local flavors that come from Texas’ air, water, and land. 

Accommodations at the Four Seasons include villas, suites, and guest rooms. Some have private sitting rooms, balconies, multiple rooms, and pool views. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas is approximately $2,740.

Address: 4150 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving, TX 75038
Phone: (972) 717-0700
Booking.com Rating: 8.7

14. Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine

Credit: Booking.com

The Great Wolf Lodge is a national resort chain geared toward kids. Their family focus makes them an excellent place to play and enjoy the outdoors without leaving the resort property. 

One of the main draws of Great Wolf Lodge is its impressive indoor water park. It was even voted the best in Texas. The expansive facility has multiple water thrill rides and slides, pools, and water activities for the entire family to enjoy. 

Beyond the water park, there is also a hotel-wide magi-quest, a paydirt mining feature, a high ropes course, an arcade, and even an onsite Build-a-Bear Workshop. 

Seven different restaurants are onsite at Great Wolf Lodge. All are kid friendly and have allergy-aware staff members ready to cater to any particular diet. 

Accommodations at Great Wolf Lodge are built with kids in mind and adult comfort. There are standard suites, premium suites, and even themed suites. Many come with bunk beds, separate kid’s rooms, and in-room games. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at the Great Wolf Lodge Grapevine is approximately $996.

Address: 100 Great Wolf Dr, Grapevine, TX 76051
Phone: (800) 693-9653
Booking.com Rating: 8.2

15. The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton

Credit: The Woodlands Resort

The Woodlands Resort by Hilton introduces Texas’ stunning wilderness into its layout and design. 

This resort is dedicated to activities. There is an onsite golf course, tennis courts, boutique shopping, an outdoor pool, and a business center. There is also a decadent onsite restaurant and a café. Back Table Kitchen and Bar has casual bites and southern-inspired food and beverages that feature local Texas products. 

Accommodations at the Woodlands Resort include comfortable rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi and luxurious bedding. Since it is a relatively new resort, all finishings are modern and chic. Pets are also welcome on some floors of the resort. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at The Woodlands Resort is approximately $1,008.

Address: 2301 N Millbend Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380
Phone: (281) 367-1100
Hotels.com Rating: 8.4

16. Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa

Credit: Omni Hotels

Austin is one of the most desirable areas of Texas to move to. The Omni is possibly the city’s best resort. It is in the city limits, surrounded by rolling hills. 

The resort has multiple pools, a golf course, a spacious patio area, comfortable lounges, and fitness classes. They also offer a range of family activities such as a mini golf course, a kids splash pad, and seasonal activities like bonfires and live performances. 

There are eight restaurants, bars, and cafes at the Omni. Blind Salamander is the hotel’s flagship establishment and serves an elevated menu in an airy, upscale setting. The restaurant has panoramic views of Texas hill country and offers fresh seafood dishes. 

Guest rooms at the Omni have modern amenities such as a workspace, luxurious skincare products, and pillow-top mattresses. The design is chic Hill Country to match the surroundings. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa is approximately $1,596.

Address: 8212 Barton Club Dr, Austin, TX 78735
Phone: (512) 329-4000
Hotels.com Rating: 8.6

17. South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center

Credit: South Shore Harbour Resort

South Shore Harbour is one of the most stylish and modern resorts in League City. It is even the largest full-service waterfront resort in this region of Texas. 

Some of the premier amenities of this expansive resort include a large marina with guest boat slips, firepits, a resort-style pool, a fitness center, a spa, and poolside cabanas. There is also a hotel events calendar with live entertainment year-round. 

There are four onsite dining options at South Shore Harbour. The best is Opus Bistro & Steakhouse. This impressive eatery overlooks the resort marina and offers indoor and outdoor table options. 

Accommodations at South Shore Harbour are comfortable and modern. Some of their premier rooms include king suites overlooking the marina, unique three queen-bed guest rooms, and executive-level suites. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center is approximately $512.

Address: 2500 South Shore Blvd, League City, TX 77573
Phone: (281) 334-1000
Booking.com Rating: 8.3

18. Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront Hotel

Credit: Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront / Facebook

The Hilton Dallas/Rockwall is a lakefront facility located minutes from Harbor Rockwall. Some of the premier amenities of the Hilton Dallas/Rockwall include an outdoor swimming pool with plenty of lounge chairs and a fitness center.

The resort is home to four different dining options and room service. The most unique is the C&B Suite, a rotunda-shaped bar with sprawling views of the outdoors. Heirloom Kitchen is another excellent option serving three meals daily in a modern space. 

Accommodations include guest rooms and suites with private balconies, views, and comfortable bedding. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at the Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront Hotel is approximately $572.

Address: 2055 Summer Lee Dr, Rockwall, TX 75032
Phone: (214) 771-3700
Hotels.com Rating: 8.6

19. Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort

Credit: Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort / Facebook

Tapatio Springs is a retreat in the heart of Hill Country. It occupies hundreds of acres of property and has plenty to do to keep the entire family entertained for days. 

Activities and amenities at Tapatio Springs include a golf course, nightly bonfires, winery tours, and plenty of outdoor recreation. The resort has access to kayaking, hiking, fishing, biking, and swimming. 

Onsite dining at Tapatio Springs includes one restaurant and one cafe. Both have elevated menus that feature local wines and produce. 

Accommodations at Tapatio Springs have modern, Hill Country design elements like dark woods and down blankets. Many have private balconies and sprawling views of the county’s rolling hills. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort is approximately $1,116.

Address: 1 Resort Way, Boerne, TX 78006
Phone: (830) 443-9681
Hotels.com Rating: 8.6

20. BeachGate CondoSuites and Ocean Front Resort

Credit: BeachGate

BeachGate is a laid-back facility perfect for families on a budget who still want a great vacation. It is a waterfront resort with plenty to do. 

Some key amenities of BeachGate include a private pool, fishing, golf cart rentals, and beach access. There are also nine onsite restaurants. Most are focused on seafood to reflect the part of Texas the resort is situated in. 

The resort offers a range of vacation rentals varying from studio suites to four-bedroom condos. Many come with private balconies and water views. 

Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay at BeachGate CondoSuites and Ocean Front Resort is approximately $492.

Address: 2000 On The Beach Dr, Port Aransas, TX 78373 
Phone: (361) 749-5900
Hotels.com Rating: 8.2

Tobi Miles
Article updated:
January 5, 2024
A nomadic wordsmith savoring the world's flavors and penning stories that turn every journey into an epic.
Find me on Twitter

You may also like...

SWEEPSTAKES

Win a $500 Flight!

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
*Terms apply. To participate, enter your email to sign up for the newsletter . You must be 18+ and be a resident of the US. No purchase necessary. Begins January 1st  and ends February 28th, 2024. Winner announced on March 31st. For full rules and regulations, visit our Terms & Conditions page. Data  processed according to our Privacy Policy.
Enter Sweepstakes