Planning a family getaway in the Lone Star State? Texas is brimming with fantastic resort options that cater to families of all shapes and sizes. From thrilling water parks and lazy rivers to relaxing spas and kid-friendly activities, finding the perfect Texas resort for families can make your vacation unforgettable. This guide dives into the top Texas resorts that promise exceptional experiences for both parents and children, ensuring your next family trip is nothing short of spectacular.
Top Family Resorts in Texas: Editor’s Picks
Here’s our curated list of the best Texas Resorts For Families, each offering unique amenities and attractions for an incredible family vacation.
1. JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa: Hill Country Family Fun
Aerial view of JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort's pool area, showcasing the lazy river and surrounding landscape.
Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is a premier destination for Texas family resorts. This sprawling resort is renowned for its exceptional pools, including a sandy beach pool, exhilarating water slides, and a relaxing lazy river, making it a paradise for kids and adults alike. Parents can unwind in the adults-only hot tub while soaking in the picturesque Hill Country sunset.
Evenings at the JW Marriott are just as delightful, with nightly s’mores around outdoor fireplaces and a spacious lawn perfect for family games. Dining is a breeze with numerous on-site restaurants, including Cibolo Moon, famed for its incredible steaks. Beyond the resort, championship golf courses and scenic walking trails await. It’s no surprise this resort is a favorite for family reunions and vacations in Texas.
Why Families Love the JW Marriott San Antonio:
- Culinary Delights at Cibolo Moon: Enjoy a memorable family dinner with top-tier steaks and diverse menu options.
- Lazy River Relaxation: Float away your worries on one of the best lazy rivers in Texas, perfect for all ages.
- Sunset S’mores: Create lasting memories with nightly s’mores as you watch the sunset over the stunning Hill Country.
📍 JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa – 23808 Resort Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78261
2. Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center: Dallas-Fort Worth Entertainment Hub
Night view of Gaylord Texan Resort, showcasing its grand architecture and illuminated surroundings.
Located in Grapevine, between Dallas and Fort Worth, the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center stands out among Texas resorts for families due to its unique atriums. These expansive indoor spaces allow you to escape the Texas heat while still feeling like you’re outdoors. The resort is known for its seasonal character appearances – past guests have enjoyed meeting Shrek, Papa Smurf, and Santa Claus, adding a touch of magic to your family vacation.
The Paradise Springs water park is a major highlight, featuring a fantastic fort-themed water playground. Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and accessible by a short shuttle ride or a pleasant walk past Lake Grapevine, it’s a guaranteed hit with kids. During the Christmas season, the Gaylord Texan transforms into a winter wonderland with ICE! Gaylord Texan, ice skating, and festive character breakfasts, making it a top choice for holiday family magic.
Why Families Love the Gaylord Texan Resort:
- Atrium Dining: Enjoy dining in a comfortable, climate-controlled “outdoor” setting, perfect for summer meals.
- ICE! Gaylord Texan: Experience the magic of Christmas with incredible ice sculptures and holiday activities.
- Paradise Springs Water Park: Let the kids loose in the impressive fort-themed water playground and enjoy the slides and lazy river.
📍Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center –1501 Gaylord Trail, Grapevine, TX 76051
3. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa: Austin Area Outdoor Adventures
Hyatt Lost Pines Lazy River winding through lush greenery, showcasing inner tubes and poolside relaxation.
For families seeking a more secluded retreat among Texas resorts for families, the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa near Bastrop and Austin is an idyllic choice. Surrounded by a vast nature preserve, this resort offers a sense of remoteness while being conveniently located just 45 minutes from Austin. Outdoor activities abound, from nature trails to horseback riding, ensuring an adventurous family vacation.
The resort’s 1,000-foot lazy river is a major draw, connecting pools, slides, a beachfront pool, and even a swim-up bar. Families can relax in lounge chairs under pecan trees along the lazy river, enjoying poolside service. Evenings are perfect for gathering around the fire pit, enjoying drinks, and stargazing in the clear Texas night sky.
Why Families Love the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines:
- Riverside Relaxation: Unwind in a lounge chair under shady pecan trees by the lazy river, with convenient poolside service.
- Outdoor Evenings: Enjoy family time with lawn games and cozy evenings around the fire pit.
- Extensive Lazy River: Float and play in the expansive 1,000-foot lazy river, a highlight of Texas lazy river resorts.
📍Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa – 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Rd, Cedar Creek, TX 78612
4. La Cantera Resort & Spa: Upscale San Antonio Family Retreat
Overview of La Cantera Resort's pool area, showcasing infinity pools and views of the Texas Hill Country.
Perched atop a hill in north San Antonio, La Cantera Resort & Spa offers a more refined experience among Texas resorts for families. With stunning Hill Country views from every angle, La Cantera is perfect for family vacations, adult getaways, or even girls’ trips. While it doesn’t have a lazy river, the resort boasts three infinity pools, a kids’ pool with water slides, and an adults-only hot tub, providing plenty of aquatic options.
La Cantera is celebrated for its exceptional dining and views, offering top-notch poolside service with delicious salads, sandwiches, and kid-friendly meals. Its proximity to San Antonio attractions like Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Lone Star Lagoon adds to its appeal as a memorable family vacation destination.
Why Families Love La Cantera Resort & Spa:
- Hill Country Views: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the infinity pools and kids’ pool.
- Exceptional Dining: Indulge in a variety of delicious on-site restaurants, catering to all tastes.
- Balanced Lifestyle: Maintain your fitness routine at the well-equipped fitness center while enjoying your vacation.
📍La Cantera Resort a –16641 La Cantera Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78256
5. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa: San Antonio’s Original Family Destination
Aerial view of Hyatt Hill Country Resort's water park area, featuring lazy river, pools, and water slides.
As a pioneer among Texas Hill Country resorts, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa has recently undergone renovations, blending modern polish with authentic Hill Country charm. Its water park is a major attraction, featuring multiple pools, a lazy river, a sandy beach area, and a dedicated kids’ pool. The Ramblin’ River lazy river is temperature-controlled and offers various tube sizes for comfortable family floating.
For thrill-seekers, the FlowRider Wave Machine provides the perfect waves for surfing or bodyboarding. Additional amenities include golf, lawn games, sports courts, and wildlife encounters, ensuring entertainment for all ages. Kids will love the poolside Slushies and evening s’mores by the fire.
Why Families Love the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa:
- Water Park Fun: Enjoy a full day at the resort’s water park, complete with pools, slides, and a riverside beach.
- Poolside Relaxation: Sip on frozen drinks and unwind by the pool while the kids play.
- Lazy River Views: Take in the beautiful Hill Country scenery while floating down the relaxing lazy river, a staple of Texas family resorts with lazy rivers.
📍Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa – 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251
6. The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton: Houston’s Family-Friendly Escape
The Woodlands Resort's water park area, featuring water slides and lush landscaping.
Close to Houston, The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton offers a family-focused experience with a fantastic pool area. While not as sprawling as some Hill Country resorts, it provides ample entertainment for a weekend getaway. The water park features a lazy river, thrilling water slides (including racing slides), and a Sprayground splash playground for younger children.
Beyond the water park, families can enjoy tennis courts, multiple golf courses, and nearby shopping. Poolside movie nights and nightly s’mores add to the resort’s family-friendly charm.
Why Families Love The Woodlands Resort:
- Racing Water Slides: Enjoy thrilling family fun on the resort’s exciting racing water slides.
- Poolside Dining: Indulge in delicious poolside snacks like the popular chicken finger basket.
- Lazy River Relaxation: Beat the Texas heat with a relaxing float down the lazy river, a must-have for Texas family resorts.
📍The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton –2301 N Millbend Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77380
7. Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa: Modern Hill Country Family Escape in Austin
Omni Barton Creek Resort's infinity pool overlooking the golf course and rolling hills.
Located in the scenic hills of west Austin, the recently renovated Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa offers a perfect blend of modern style and Hill Country charm. Its location feels secluded yet remains easily accessible from downtown Austin. Families will enjoy multiple pools, a splash pad, and a mini-golf course. A nature hike with a scavenger hunt adds an extra layer of family fun.
Adults can relax at the infinity pool overlooking the 18th hole or unwind by the fire pit at sunset. Don’t miss the cinnamon rolls from Velvet Joe’s coffee shop in the lobby, perfect for enjoying on the back porch with Hill Country views.
Why Families Love the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa:
- Sunset Views: Enjoy breathtaking Hill Country sunsets by the fire pit on the back deck.
- Family Activities: Engage in fun activities like the property scavenger hunt and mini-golf.
- Pool Variety: Cool off in the multiple resort pools and kids’ splash pad, perfect for Texas family pool resorts.
📍Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa – 8212 Barton Club Dr, Austin, TX 78735
8. Houstonian Hotel, Club, and Spa: Fitness-Focused Family Getaway in Houston
Houstonian Hotel's garden pool surrounded by lush greenery and lounge chairs.
Located near Memorial Park in Houston, the Houstonian Hotel, Club, and Spa is ideal for health-conscious families. This fitness-focused resort boasts tennis and pickleball courts, an upscale gym, and walking/jogging trails. Memorial Park trail is also easily accessible.
The Houstonian offers various dining options and multiple pools, including a sports pool, a garden pool, and a resort pool with a water slide, waterfalls, water volleyball/basketball, and a baby pool. It’s a perfect choice for a healthy and active family vacation in Houston.
Why Families Love the Houstonian Hotel, Club, and Spa:
- Resort Pool Fun: Splash and play in the family-friendly resort pool with its exciting features.
- Pickleball and Tennis: Enjoy a morning game of pickleball or tennis on the resort’s courts.
- Memorial Park Proximity: Take advantage of the hotel’s location near Memorial Park for walks or jogs.
📍JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort – 111 N Post Oak Ln, Houston, TX 77024
9. Marriott Marquis Houston: Downtown Houston Resort Experience
Aerial view of Marriott Marquis Houston's rooftop pool deck, featuring the Texas-shaped lazy river.
In the heart of downtown Houston, the Marriott Marquis Houston offers a unique urban resort experience. Located near Discovery Green Park and Minute Maid Park, and connected to the convention center, it’s a perfect base for exploring Houston or attending events.
Despite being a hotel, it feels like a mini-resort with seven dining options, a rooftop pool, and a spa. Its most famous feature is the Texas-shaped lazy river on the rooftop terrace, providing iconic views of the city skyline.
Why Families Love the Marriott Marquis Houston:
- Texas-Shaped Lazy River: Experience the one-of-a-kind Texas-shaped lazy river, a highlight among unique Texas resorts for families.
- Biggio’s Sports Bar: Catch a game at Biggio’s, a premier sports bar experience in Houston.
- Dive-in Movies: Enjoy family movie nights by the pool deck for a memorable evening.
📍Marriott Marquis Houston – 1777 Walker St, Houston, TX 77010
10. Grand Galvez: Galveston Island’s Historic Beachfront Luxury
Grand Galvez hotel exterior, showcasing its historic architecture and beachfront location.
The Grand Galvez, known as the “Queen of the Gulf,” is a historic hotel offering luxury on Galveston Island. This beachfront property features stunning Gulf views, a resort-style pool with a swim-up bar, a spa, and a restaurant serving fresh Gulf seafood.
Located across from the seawall and near Pleasure Pier, it offers easy access to Galveston’s attractions. Enjoy cocktails and sunsets with sea breezes at this iconic hotel. While technically a hotel, its resort-like amenities make it a standout.
Why Families Love the Grand Galvez:
- Swim-Up Bar: Relax and enjoy drinks at the convenient swim-up bar by the pool.
- Prime Galveston Location: Benefit from a fantastic location on the seawall, close to Galveston’s hotspots.
- Historic Charm: Experience the rich history and elegance of this iconic beachfront hotel.
📍Grand Galvez – 2024 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
11. Lakeway Resort and Spa: Lakeside Austin Family Fun
Lakeway Resort's infinity pool overlooking Lake Travis at sunset, featuring a swim-up bar.
Combining Central Texas beauty with lakeside access, Lakeway Resort and Spa near Austin offers a perfect family vacation. Overlooking Lake Travis, this resort features adult-only three-tiered infinity pools with a swim-up bar and a family-friendly pool with a water slide, splash fountains, and a waterfall.
An activity pool with water volleyball adds to the fun. Enjoy stunning lake views and sunsets from this lakeside gem.
Why Families Love Lakeway Resort and Spa:
- Family Pool Features: Enjoy the family-friendly pool with zero-grade entry, water slide, and waterfalls.
- Infinity Pool Views: Relax in the three-tiered infinity pool with breathtaking Lake Travis views.
- Sunset Rocking Chairs: Watch spectacular Lake Travis sunsets from rocking chairs at The Back Porch Lobby Bar.
📍Lakeway Resort and Spa – 101 Lakeway Dr, Lakeway, TX 78734
12. Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort: Boerne’s Live Music & Golf Retreat
Tapatio Springs Resort's pool area, featuring lounge chairs and views of the golf course.
Located in Boerne, northwest of San Antonio, Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort is known for its live music scene and country charm. Once owned by George Strait, the resort hosts weekly live music on its outdoor patio.
Enjoy golf with Hill Country views, a resort pool with a water slide, and dining at La Cascada Table and Bar. Evening stargazing around the fire pit adds to the resort’s appeal.
Why Families Love Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort:
- Live Music Patio: Enjoy live music on the patio with a relaxed Hill Country vibe.
- Hill Country Golf: Play golf surrounded by stunning Texas Hill Country landscapes.
- Stargazing Nights: Gather around the fire pit for evening stargazing under clear Texas skies.
📍Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort –1 Resort Way, Boerne, TX 78006
13. Cibolo Creek Ranch Resort: Marfa’s Rugged West Texas Experience
Cibolo Creek Ranch's pool area with rustic architecture and West Texas landscape in the background.
Cibolo Creek Ranch Resort in Marfa offers a unique blend of West Texas ruggedness and resort comforts. This ranch resort allows families to explore mountains, fish, hunt, and enjoy the stunning landscapes of West Texas. Look out for the mysterious Marfa Lights during your stay.
Why Families Love Cibolo Creek Ranch Resort:
- Horseback Riding: Experience West Texas authentically with horseback riding adventures.
- Marfa Lights: Try to catch a glimpse of the enigmatic Marfa Lights phenomenon.
- West Texas Fishing: Spend a day fishing in the breathtaking West Texas scenery.
📍Cibolo Creek Ranch – 97139 US-67, Marfa, TX 79843
14. San Luis Resort & Spa: Galveston Island’s Premier Beach Base
San Luis Resort's pool area with palm trees and views of the Gulf of Mexico.
San Luis Resort and Spa in Galveston Island is a fantastic beach resort and a perfect base for exploring this summer destination. Offering Gulf views and proximity to attractions like The Strand, Moody Gardens, and Paradise Pier, it’s ideal for families.
Relax at the on-site spa, pool, or enjoy dining at some of Galveston’s best restaurants while watching the sunset. The San Luis also hosts epic holiday buffets, especially for Christmas.
Why Families Love San Luis Resort & Spa:
- Relaxing Spa: Unwind at the resort’s spa, considered the best on Galveston Island.
- Holiday Buffets: Enjoy festive holiday buffets with family, without the hassle of cooking and cleaning.
- Swim-Up Bar: Adults can appreciate the convenience of the resort’s swim-up bar.
📍The San Luis Resort, Spa, and Convestion Center – 5222 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77551
15. Horseshoe Bay Resort: Lake LBJ Water Sports & Family Fun
Horseshoe Bay Resort's lakeside beach area with kayaks and water sports activities.
For lakeside water sports near Austin, Horseshoe Bay Resort on Lake LBJ is an excellent choice. Offering diverse accommodations, it’s perfect for couples, families, and reunions. While lacking a lazy river, its lakeside beach and lake access more than compensate.
Excellent childcare options allow adults to enjoy lake activities or the spa. Bluebonnet season (March-April) is a particularly beautiful time to visit.
Why Families Love Horseshoe Bay Resort:
- Lake LBJ Kayaking: Soak up the Texas sun while kayaking and enjoying water sports on Lake LBJ.
- Bluebonnet Golf: Play golf on world-class courses surrounded by fields of Texas bluebonnets in spring.
- Kids Care Activities: Benefit from the resort’s outstanding kids’ care programs for some adult time.
📍Horseshoe Bay Resort – 200 Hi Cir N, Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657
16. Hilton Anatole: Dallas Urban Resort with Water Park
Hilton Anatole's JadeWaters water park, featuring the lazy river and poolside lounge chairs.
Hilton Anatole in Dallas is a perfect blend of urban hotel and family resort. Its JadeWaters water park features a lazy river, multiple pools, and splash pads, ensuring family fun.
With numerous on-site restaurants, you’ll want to extend your stay to sample them all. The Hilton Anatole offers a memorable family vacation experience in the heart of Dallas.
Why Families Love Hilton Anatole:
- JadeWaters Lazy River: Float down the lazy river at JadeWaters water park, a highlight among Texas resorts with lazy rivers.
- On-Site Dining: Enjoy a variety of delicious meals at the hotel’s diverse restaurants.
- Dallas Proximity: Benefit from the hotel’s central location, close to Dallas attractions.
📍Hilton Anatole – 2201 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, TX 75207
17. Great Wolf Lodge: Grapevine’s Ultimate Kids’ Water Park Resort
Great Wolf Lodge's indoor water park area, featuring water slides and play structures.
Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine is the ultimate resort for kids, primarily due to its massive indoor/outdoor water park. Perfect for all ages, the water park features slides, splash pads, and pools.
Designed with families in mind, rooms are spacious, with themed suites and bunk beds available. On-site restaurants and the MagiQuest adventure game ensure non-stop family fun.
Why Families Love Great Wolf Lodge:
- Year-Round Water Park: Enjoy water slides and attractions at the huge indoor/outdoor water park, regardless of the weather.
- Themed Suites: Experience fun and spacious themed suites perfect for families.
- MagiQuest Adventure: Engage in the interactive MagiQuest game for family fun beyond the water park.
📍Great Wolf Lodge Water Park – 100 Great Wolf Dr, Grapevine, TX 76051
Honorable Mentions: More Fantastic Texas Family Resorts
1. Margaritaville Lake Resort: Lake Conroe Lakeside Paradise
Margaritaville Lake Resort's lakefront cottages with private boat docks and views of Lake Conroe.
Margaritaville Lake Resort on Lake Conroe, near Houston, offers hotel rooms and lakefront cottages with private boat docks. Its Jolly Mon Water Park features water slides, a lazy river, a private beach, and a swim-up bar.
Enjoy lake activities, boat rentals, tiki cruises, sports courts, mini-golf, and live music, all in a Jimmy Buffett-inspired atmosphere.
Why Families Love Margaritaville Lake Resort:
- Tiki Cruises: Enjoy nightly BYOB tiki cruises on Lake Conroe for unique family fun.
- Jolly Mon Water Park: Experience water slides, a lazy river, and a private beach at the resort’s water park.
- Lakeside Live Music: Enjoy live music by the water, embracing the Margaritaville vibe.
📍Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe – 600 Margaritaville, Park Way, Montgomery, TX 77356
2. Hyatt Residence Club San Antonio – Wild Oak Ranch: Hill Country Hidden Gem
Hyatt Residence Club Wild Oak Ranch's lazy river winding through the resort grounds.
Hyatt Residence Club San Antonio Wild Oak Ranch is a lesser-known gem in the Hill Country, offering a more private resort feel with spacious condo accommodations. Sister resort to Hyatt Regency Hill Country, guests enjoy access to both resorts.
Wild Oak Ranch features an indoor/outdoor pool, lazy river, on-site dining, and family activities. Condo-style rooms with kitchens make it ideal for family stays.
Why Families Love Hyatt Residence Club Wild Oak Ranch:
- Spacious Condos: Enjoy larger accommodations with 1-3 bedroom condos and full kitchens.
- Private Lazy River: Relax in a less crowded lazy river compared to larger resorts.
- Indoor Pool Fun: Benefit from a family-friendly indoor pool with a water slide for year-round enjoyment.
📍Hyatt Vacation Club at Wild Oak Ranch – 9700 Military Dr W, San Antonio, TX 78251
3. Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa: Big Bend’s West Texas Adventure
Lajitas Golf Resort's golf course with desert landscape and mountains in the distance.
Lajitas Golf Resort in Big Bend, near Terlingua, is known for its top-ranked golf course. Offering upscale and rustic accommodations, it provides a variety of activities like hiking, shooting sports, horseback riding, and ziplining.
Don’t miss meeting the goat mayor of Lajitas and enjoying the unique West Texas experience.
Why Families Love Lajitas Golf Resort & Spa:
- Texas’s Best Golf: Play golf at the #1-ranked golf course in Texas, enjoying stunning desert scenery.
- West Texas Horseback Riding: Explore the rugged landscape with memorable horseback riding excursions.
- Goat Mayor Visit: Meet the famous goat mayor of Lajitas for a quirky and fun photo opportunity.
📍Lajitas Golf Resort – 21701 FM170, Terlingua, TX 79852
4. Isla Grand Beach Resort: South Padre Island Beachfront Fun
Isla Grand Beach Resort's pool area with beach access and views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Isla Grand Beach Resort on South Padre Island offers beachfront access, two pools, and hot tubs. Enjoy surfing, scuba diving, or building sandcastles on your family beach vacation.
Don’t miss the Wednesday night hermit crab races for a unique and entertaining experience. Note: South Padre Island is known for Spring Break parties, so families might prefer to avoid visiting during that time.
Why Families Love Isla Grand Beach Resort:
- Private Beach Access: Enjoy direct access to the beautiful beaches of South Padre Island.
- Multiple Pools: Choose from two resort pools when you need a break from the ocean.
- Hermit Crab Races: Participate in the quirky and fun hermit crab races, a unique resort activity.
📍Isla Grand Beach Resort – 500 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597
Texas truly offers a diverse range of family-friendly resorts. We’re excited to explore more Texas resorts for families in the future, with Moody Gardens Hotel and Las Colinas Resort on our radar.
For more specialized resort types, explore our “Best Of” sections for beach resorts in Texas, lake resorts in Texas, ranch resorts in Texas, elevated RV resorts in Texas, and private cabin resorts in Texas.
While Texas resorts are our focus, we’re also venturing beyond Texas for family travel, including Disneyland and Legoland, with Walt Disney World Resort in Florida on our horizon.
Plan your next unforgettable family vacation at one of these top Texas resorts for families. With options for every taste and age group, Texas resorts offer the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and family bonding. Whether you seek beachfront bliss or thrilling water parks, Texas has the ideal family resort waiting for you! Embrace the outdoors, create cherished memories, and enjoy quality time with your loved ones.
Life is short and Summer is long.
Texas Family Resorts
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