At BOSW, we love hidden gems, and the Lone Star State does not disappoint. From historic walking tours to hands-on wildlife encounters and beachside adventures, small-town Texas travel locales offer unforgettable experiences for parents and kids. Check out a few stunning Texas destinations for spring and summer family travels. 

Need more? Read more: 30-plus 2025 spring destination resorts & hotels in the Southwest

Ready-made Texas family travel (pack your bags)

Jefferson

Located in the Piney Woods of East Texas, Jefferson offers a mix of history and outdoor experiences. Families can spend the day in the mysterious cypress forests of Caddo Lake State Park with activities like paddling, fishing and hiking. At the Lonesome Dove Drive Thru Safari, kids can view zebras, bison and kangaroos from the comfort of their vehicle.

To dive into the city’s past, families can set out on the Historic Walking Trail where well-preserved homes, churches and other structures built around the Civil War-era tell the story of the town. Located along the trail, The Jefferson Historic Museum features Civil War artifacts, antique furniture and a model train display. End the day with a sweet treat from Jefferson Fudge Co.

Marble Falls

About an hour northwest of Austin, Marble Falls is set in Texas Hill County. Nearby Krause Spring is home to 32 springs where families can swim for a quick refresh and relax in natural surroundings. For more outdoor adventure, Inks Lake State Park offers plenty of opportunities to kayak and fish, while Shaffer Bend Recreation Area is great for hiking, wildlife viewing and camping.

Sweet Berry Farm is a seasonal favorite, where visitors can pick strawberries in the spring and enjoy other hands-on farm activities. For a chance to see rare bird species and take in sweeping Hill Country views, head to Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. 

Port Aransas

Nothing brings families together like a trip to the beach, and Port Aransas is the perfect place for a coastal getaway. Small-town Texas travelers can soak up the sun on the sandy shores of Mustang Island State Park, where beach-combing, sandcastle building and picnicking make for a fun-filled day. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits and interactive displays at the Patton Center for Marine Life Education. Traverse the island on a golf cart or book a tour with The Scarlet Lady Dolphin Cruises. 

Grapevine

In Grapevine, visitors can explore the underwater world at SEA LIFE Grapevine Aquarium or cool off at the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, with water slides and pools for all ages. Families can climb aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad for themed theatrical performances or immerse themselves in Meow Wolf’s The Real Unreal — a vibrant, interactive art exhibit featuring imaginative worlds filled with hidden passageways and surreal storytelling.

To learn more about small-town Texas travel opportunities, visit traveltexas.com.