When summer begins, it seems like it stretches out endlessly in front of you -- but once you're in the middle of July or heading into August, you might realize that time is getting away from you. If you haven't done anything fun with family or friends this summer, this is the ideal time to plan for last minute summer travel around Texas.
Here are some great Dallas area long weekend ideas that you'll love.
There's nothing that kids love more than water parks, and Grapevine boasts the Great Wolf Lodge, the biggest indoor water park in the whole area. There is more than 80,000 square feet of attractions at Great Wolf Lodge, including water slides, a water flume, indoor water playground, and much more.
There's also plenty to keep adults busy when you need a break from the water, including a spa, gift shops, a whirlpool, and even a cozy fireplace. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of days off while feeling like you had the maximum adventure with the kids.
While Dallas has plenty to do, you could plan a fun ‘stay-cation’ and center your last minute summer travel around the Dallas World Aquarium. The facility is big and exciting enough to deliver fun for at least a full day -- and you can plan a couple days here and in the area to really explore if you like!
The Dallas World Aquarium has a number of different exotic animals, not just fish. You can meet tree kangaroos, toucans, and sloths, in addition to the aquatic creatures. Some of the animals can even be fed (the staff will guide you!), if you're looking for a hands-on experience.
There are plenty of hotels near the aquarium, including The Joule, Crowne Plaze Dallas, and HomeWood Suites. This option is fun for kids, adults, and for anyone who enjoys a bit of exploration with their vacation. So even if you’re local you could spend the night, explore a few local restaurants and even swim in the hotel pool to cool off!
Waco, Texas has garnered an increasing amount of attention as a fun spot to visit -- but luckily, it's not yet so full of tourists that you can't plan a last minute weekend there. The city of Waco is home to Spice Village, where you can enjoy eclectic shopping at more than 60 vendors. You might also want to check out Magnolia Market, which offers not only shopping but also dining at the food trucks and a large green lawn for picnics.
The Cameron Park Zoo has more than 50 acres of wild animals in their natural habitats. Because it's summer, the zoo is making an exception to allow outside food and drink -- which means you can plan your own picnic inside the zoo!
While in Waco, you have several options for accommodations. Consider highly ranked local hotels like Hotel Indigo or the Hilton Waco. Waco has plenty to do for a long weekend, and it's a great place to enjoy a relaxed and laidback vibe this summer.
Any of the options above will make for a fun summer weekend or quick overnight -- and it's stress-free because you don't have to do a lot of research or spend days or weeks planning the trip.
A few other top Texas Resort Destinations:
- Horseshoe Bay Resort (closer to Austin)
- The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa (in Houston)
- Lakeway Resort and Spa (Austin area)
- The Cliffs (1.5 hours from Dallas)
Last minute summer travel can be one of the best ways to create a fun and unique experience that you'll be remembering fondly for many years to come. Plan your last minute long weekend in Texas today -- and have a great time!