A Guide to Texas Staycations

By Erin O’Connell

Wild about Waco | Waco, Texas

What’s better than a family-fun trip to Waco, Texas? For HGTV’s Fixer Upper fans, not much. While it’s true that Magnolia Market and the Silos are a must see, Waco has much more than
meets the eye. If you are looking for Magnolia-styled fun, the Silos surely have everything you need. From shopping, food trucks, gardens, a bakery and more, you and your family will have a day filled with fun. While in Waco, be sure to take a stroll around Cameron Park located along the Brazos River, and if you are up to the adventure, take the challenge to climb Jacob’s Ladder, a zig-zagged set of over 85 steps. For the younger kids, you can find plenty of playgrounds and splash pads along the way, and the whole family can enjoy a visit to the Cameron Park Zoo. Before you leave, the photo opportunity along the suspension bridge is one for the books. https://www.tourtexas.com/destinations/waco-things-to-do

Rawr-ing Good Time | Glen Rose, Texas

Glen Rose is an absolute “yes” when it comes to “staycations.” It can also serve as an educational trip, too! Starting with the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, you and your family will have the opportunity to experience over 1,000 animals roaming freely across over 1,700 acres. You’ll have the option to drive through the park in your own vehicle or join a guided safari tour. For the family members with a prehistoric preference, both Dinosaur World, with 100+ dinosaurs nearing true-to-scale, and Dinosaur Valley State Park, with hiking, picnic opportunities and fossils, are the perfect destinations.  http://www.glenrosetexas.net/165/Attractions

Llela Nature Preserve | Lewisville, Texas

Just a few miles south of Denton, Llela is a quiet escape from the busy city life with a touch of nature hidden away. This March, there will be plenty of activities, from Stars on the Prairie, Bird Walks, Guided Kayaking and more. If you are feeling outdoors-y, there are 20 primitive camping sites available on weekends. Kayaking and hiking are open seven days a week, 7 AM to 7 PM at $5 per vehicle. Find out more here: https://www.llela.org/explore/things-to-do-or-see

Hidden Oasis | Cedar Hill State Park 

Escape to the beach! Just a few miles south of Dallas, Cedar Hill State Park along Joe Pool Lake has plenty of activities to keep you and your family busy. Bring your charcoal and stop by the local grocery store, and treat the family to a grill-out by the water. Also offered are tours of the Penn Farm. http://www.cedarhillstatepark.org/ 

Sports Fanatic | Arlington, Texas

If you are a sports-loving family, this is the trip for you. Whether you fancy football, baseball or both, you are now able to walk the same hallowed paths as many sports legends. With VIP tour experiences, field passes, dugout exploration and more, your kids (and, let’s be honest, you) can have bragging rights for the rest of the month!   http://attstadium.com/tours  |  https://www.mlb.com/rangers/ballpark/tours