10 Best Family Vacation Destinations within Driving Distance of San Antonio
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Whenever I start planning a family trip, I get excited but also a little stressed. Between work, school schedules, and everyone’s different interests, finding the “perfect” spot can feel like a juggling act. What I’ve learned, though, is that we don’t always need to hop on a plane or spend weeks planning. Some of our best family memories have come from road trips just a couple of hours from San Antonio.
That’s why I pulled together this list of ten destinations you can drive to without breaking a sweat. These places work whether your kids are craving water slides, you’re dreaming of a quiet getaway, or your whole crew just needs a change of scenery. From beaches to small towns to wide-open parks, there’s something here for every kind of family mood.
San Antonio to Fredericksburg, TX
A charming small town with a rich German heritage
Fredericksburg is one of those towns that feels like it was made for families who want a mix of history, shopping, and the outdoors. The drive from San Antonio is short enough that nobody gets too restless, but once you arrive, it feels like you’ve stepped into another world.
On our last trip, we started with a climb up Enchanted Rock. The kids complained a little on the way up (okay, a lot), but once we reached the top, the views across the Hill Country made it all worth it. We took a picnic and stayed up there longer than planned, just soaking it all in. Afterward, ice cream from Clear River Ice Cream & Bakery downtown worked like a charm to restore their energy.
The town itself is so much fun to wander. I stopped into Der Küchen Laden, which is basically a wonderland for anyone who loves cooking – shelves of gadgets, cookware, and little things I didn’t know I needed. The kids liked poking around the Fredericksburg General Store, which has toys, candy, and quirky souvenirs.
For meals, Auslander Restaurant hit the spot with hearty German fare in a kid-friendly setting, and when we wanted something a little more modern, Otto’s German Bistro was the pick (a little fancier, so we made it more of a parents’ treat). Coffee-wise, I loved Java Ranch Coffee & Provisions – it’s right on Main Street and made for the perfect recharge before more shopping.
And because Fredericksburg is known for its wineries, we made a quick stop at Becker Vineyards. The kids played outside while we enjoyed a short tasting, and it actually worked out perfectly – one of those rare “everyone’s happy” moments on a family trip.
Don’t Miss in Fredericksburg
- Enchanted Rock State Natural Area – A hike with views that make the climb worth it.
- National Museum of the Pacific War – Engaging for kids and adults (plan at least a couple of hours).
- Clear River Ice Cream & Bakery – Homemade ice cream that hits the spot after exploring.
- Downtown Main Street – Shops like Der Küchen Laden and Fredericksburg General Store add to the charm.
- Java Ranch Coffee – Great place to refuel between activities.
Corpus Christi, TX from San Antonio
A beach paradise with something for everyone
Whenever the kids start asking for a beach trip, Corpus Christi is one of the first places that comes to mind. It’s close enough for a long weekend, but it feels like you’ve truly gone on vacation – sand, surf, and enough activities to keep everyone busy without needing a jam-packed schedule.
One of the biggest hits for my family was the USS Lexington, the retired aircraft carrier turned museum. The kids ran from room to room pretending they were on a real mission, and I have to admit, even I was impressed by how massive it was. We paired that with a trip to the Texas State Aquarium, which is right across the street. Between the dolphins, sea turtles, and touch tanks, the kids were completely engaged (and I secretly loved it too).
Of course, the beach was the main draw. We headed out to Padre Island National Seashore, which feels less crowded and more natural than the typical touristy beach areas. The kids collected seashells, and we even caught sight of pelicans diving for fish – little moments like that always end up being the ones they remember.
When it came to food, Water Street Oyster Bar was our go-to. They had great seafood, but it still felt laid-back enough for a family meal. Another day we ate at the Executive Surf Club, where the kids danced around to live music while we relaxed with burgers and fries. For coffee, I fell in love with Coffee Waves, a local spot with a cozy vibe and pastries that doubled as a bribe to get everyone moving in the morning.
We also squeezed in a quick stop at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, which was small but just right for an afternoon. And because I can never resist a little shopping, we wandered around La Palmera Mall for a mix of chain stores and local finds. It was a nice break from the sun and gave the kids a chance to pick out souvenirs.
Don’t Miss in Corpus Christi
- USS Lexington – Touring an aircraft carrier is a memory that sticks with kids.
- Texas State Aquarium – Fun and educational with dolphins, sea turtles, and sharks.
- Padre Island National Seashore – Wide, quiet beaches perfect for shell hunting and birdwatching.
- Water Street Oyster Bar – Great seafood in a kid-friendly setting.
- Coffee Waves – A local favorite for coffee and pastries.
South Padre Island feels like a true getaway, even though it’s just a few hours from San Antonio. The water is clearer than most Texas beaches, the sand feels soft under your feet, and there’s a fun, festive energy that makes it hard not to relax.
My kids could’ve happily spent the entire trip at Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Between the slides, wave pool, and lazy river, they barely stopped to eat. I loved that the park had plenty of shaded areas and spots where younger kids could play safely while the older ones tried the big rides. It’s definitely a full-day adventure, so we planned around it.
Another highlight was Sea Turtle, Inc., a rescue center dedicated to rehabilitating injured sea turtles. The kids were fascinated, and it gave us a chance to talk about conservation in a way they could really connect with. We also made time for the Laguna Madre Nature Trail, where we spotted herons and pelicans – it’s a short, easy walk that doesn’t feel like “hiking” but still gets everyone out in nature.
Evenings were some of my favorite moments. We had dinner at Blackbeard’s Restaurant, where the kids devoured fried shrimp and I enjoyed a plate of fresh fish. Another night, we tried Gabriella’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria, which was a nice break from seafood and surprisingly good for a tourist town. Afterward, we wandered along the boardwalk, grabbed cones at Kic’s Ice Cream, and just enjoyed the ocean breeze.
For coffee, Café Karma became my morning ritual – a good latte before we hit the beach made all the difference. As for shopping, we popped into a few beachwear and souvenir shops along Padre Boulevard. The kids picked out matching t-shirts, and I grabbed a beachy candle from a little boutique to remind me of the trip once we got home.
Don’t Miss in South Padre Island
- Schlitterbahn Waterpark – A full day of rides, slides, and lazy rivers.
- Sea Turtle, Inc. – Educational and inspiring, especially for animal-loving kids.
- Laguna Madre Nature Trail – A quick, kid-friendly walk with lots of bird sightings.
- Blackbeard’s Restaurant – Casual, fun, and perfect for families.
- Kic’s Ice Cream – The best way to end a beach day.
Wimberley, TX from San Antonio
A quaint and peaceful getaway in the Texas Hill Country
Wimberley is my go-to when I want a trip that feels slower and more relaxed, but still has enough going on to keep the kids interested. It’s a small town tucked into the Hill Country, and everything about it feels cozy and welcoming.
The kids loved Blue Hole Regional Park. We packed swimsuits and snacks, and spent the better part of the day swimming in the spring-fed pool, playing on the playground, and just enjoying the open space. It’s one of those spots where you can let the kids run and not worry about them getting bored in five minutes.
Another highlight was Wimberley Glassworks. I wasn’t sure how long the kids would last watching glassblowers, but they were mesmerized. Seeing glowing molten glass turn into colorful vases and bowls felt almost magical.
When it came to shopping, Wimberley delivered. The downtown square is lined with little boutiques and galleries. We browsed By the Bridge Antiques and The Wildflower, and the kids picked out fun trinkets at Wall Street Western (cowboy hats included). I stopped for a quick coffee at Sip! On the Square, while the kids shared a giant cookie. For meals, Community Pizza & Beer Garden hit the sweet spot – kid-friendly menu, outdoor seating, and live music in the evenings.
On another visit, we hiked over to Jacob’s Well Natural Area. The water was so clear it looked unreal, and although swimming requires reservations in summer, even just walking around the area was worth it.
Don’t Miss in Wimberley
- Blue Hole Regional Park – Beautiful, family-friendly swimming and play areas.
- Wimberley Glassworks – Fascinating for both kids and adults.
- Downtown square – Antiques, boutiques, and local shops worth wandering.
- Community Pizza & Beer Garden – Easygoing food and a fun vibe.
- Jacob’s Well – A natural wonder that feels like a paradise
New Braunfels, TX from San Antonio
A water park paradise and home to Schlitterbahn
New Braunfels is the place my kids ask about the most, and I don’t blame them. Between the rivers, the waterpark, and the history, it has that rare mix of kid-thrills and grown-up fun.
We spent an entire day at Schlitterbahn, and honestly, you need at least that much time. The older kids went straight for the big rides like the Master Blaster, while my youngest was perfectly happy splashing in the kids’ play areas. Renting a cabana was a lifesaver – it gave us a place to regroup and store snacks so we didn’t have to keep running back and forth.
But the best part about New Braunfels is that it isn’t just about the waterpark. We spent an afternoon floating down the Guadalupe River, and it was hands-down the most relaxing part of the trip. Just drifting along with snacks in a cooler felt like the kind of slow family time we don’t always get at home.
In the evenings, we wandered around the Gruene Historic District. We listened to live music at Gruene Hall, browsed the little shops, and grabbed dinner at the Gristmill River Restaurant. The setting – an old cotton gin overlooking the river – made it feel special without being stuffy. The kids loved exploring the outdoor decks between courses.
For breakfast, we stopped at Naegelin’s Bakery, the oldest bakery in Texas, where the pastries are massive and the kolaches go fast. I grabbed my morning coffee at 2Tarts Bakery, which doubles as a cute little café with cupcakes that kept the kids happy while I caffeinated.
Shopping in downtown New Braunfels was another nice break from all the water fun. We popped into Dancing Pony, a gift shop with everything from toys to Texas décor, and I found a few unique pieces at Red Stag, a home furnishings store with a rustic vibe.
Don’t Miss in New Braunfels
- Schlitterbahn Waterpark – A full-day adventure, especially if you rent a cabana.
- Guadalupe River tubing – Relaxing and family-friendly with the right stretch.
- Gruene Historic District – Live music, unique shopping, and great food.
- Gristmill River Restaurant – Scenic dining the whole family can enjoy.
- Naegelin’s Bakery – A must for breakfast pastries
Garner State Park, TX from San Antonio
A picturesque natural park perfect for outdoor families
Garner State Park is one of those places that makes you fall in love with Texas all over again. The drive out isn’t too bad, and once you get there, the scenery is just breathtaking – limestone cliffs, the clear Frio River, and so much open space for kids to run around.
We spent most of our time in the water. Tubing down the Frio is relaxing, but the kids also loved just swimming and skipping rocks. Hiking trails wind through the park, and while some are a bit steep, the views are worth it. If you’re more into camping, the park has everything from cabins to primitive sites, and even if you’re not usually a “camping family,” staying overnight here is magical.
What surprised me most was the evening dance at the pavilion. It’s been a tradition for decades, and it felt like stepping back into simpler times – music playing, families dancing under the stars, and kids running around with new friends.
Don’t Miss in Garner State Park
- The Frio River – Bring tubes or just splash around; the water is cold but refreshing.
- Evening dances – A Texas tradition that’s fun for all ages, even if you don’t think you can dance.
- Hiking trails – Some are challenging, but the Hill Country views are incredible.
- Camping – Whether it’s a tent or a cabin, staying overnight is the best way to enjoy the park.
Bandera, TX from San Antonio
The “Cowboy Capital of the World”
If your kids have ever gone through a cowboy or horse-loving phase (and let’s face it, most do), Bandera is the place to take them. Just an hour from San Antonio, it’s all about western fun and a real taste of Texas ranch life.
We booked a trail ride at one of the guest ranches, and it was a huge hit. The guides made sure the kids felt comfortable, and by the end, they were riding with big grins like they’d been doing it forever. Afterward, we caught a rodeo – nothing fancy, but it was exciting enough that my kids talked about it the whole way home.
What I love about Bandera is that it mixes fun activities with history. The Frontier Times Museum has quirky old-west artifacts, and the town square itself feels like you’ve stepped onto a movie set. And yes, there are cowboy cookouts and gunfight reenactments if you’re up for the full western experience.
Don’t Miss in Bandera
- Horseback riding – Plenty of options for beginners and families; guided trail rides are the easiest.
- Frontier Times Museum – Small but interesting; the kids liked the old cowboy gear.
- Rodeo nights – Check the schedule before you go; it’s worth timing your visit.
- Western cookouts & shows – Cheesy? Yes. Fun for kids? Absolutely.
Gruene, TX from San Antonio
A historic and charming town with live music and great food
Gruene is one of those towns that makes you want to slow down and just enjoy the atmosphere. It’s close enough to San Antonio for a half-day trip, but we usually end up staying longer because there’s always something happening.
The kids loved dancing around at Gruene Hall while live music played. It’s the oldest dance hall in Texas, and while I thought it might feel a little “adult,” it turned out to be really family-friendly. We grabbed dinner afterward at one of the local restaurants – lots of outdoor seating, good food, and plenty of space for kids to run a little wild without bothering anyone.
Shopping is another fun part of Gruene. I always stop at the General Store because it’s packed with quirky gifts, candy, and souvenirs. Add in a lazy float down the Guadalupe River, and it’s a perfect little getaway.
Don’t Miss in Gruene
- Gruene Hall – Iconic and fun for all ages; don’t skip the live music.
- Gruene General Store – Old-fashioned candy and quirky souvenirs make it a must-stop.
- The Grapevine – A wine shop for the adults while kids enjoy the outdoor area.
- Guadalupe River – Swimming, tubing, or just walking along the banks is a great way to wind down.
San Marcos, TX from San Antonio
A lively college town with outdoor fun for families
San Marcos is one of those places that surprised me. I thought “college town” meant it wouldn’t have much for kids, but it turned out to be a great family day trip. The San Marcos River alone is worth the drive. We rented tubes, packed some snacks, and floated for a couple of hours. The water is crystal clear and stays cool, which felt amazing on a hot day.
If tubing isn’t your thing, the parks are a good alternative. Spring Lake Natural Area is beautiful, and the Discovery Center kept my kids busy with hands-on exhibits and even a butterfly garden. And when everyone was ready for some air conditioning, the outlet malls were a lifesaver. I may have enjoyed the shopping more than the kids, but they didn’t complain once they got pretzels and lemonade.
Downtown San Marcos also has a fun energy. We found some family-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating, which made dinner easy and relaxed.
Don’t Miss in San Marcos
- Tubing or kayaking the San Marcos River – Easy, affordable, and perfect for families.
- Spring Lake Natural Area & Discovery Center – Hiking, nature, and kid-friendly activities in one stop.
- Tanger Outlets – Great if you need a break from outdoor activities (and want some deals).
- Downtown San Marcos – Small but charming, with good food and local shops.
Austin, TX Day Trip from San Antonio
Big city attractions without a long drive
Whenever we want a city adventure without committing to a full-blown road trip, Austin is our go-to. It’s only about an hour and a half away, and there’s so much to do that we never run out of options.
We started at the Texas State Capitol, which was surprisingly interesting for the kids. The building itself is gorgeous, and the free tours made it easy to keep everyone engaged. From there, we headed to Zilker Park. Between the playground, the trails, and the open fields, the kids had space to burn energy while we relaxed a little.
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Barton Springs Pool was another highlight – a natural spring-fed pool that stays cool year-round. It’s busy, but in a fun way, and perfect for a hot Texas afternoon. Later in the evening, we joined the crowd by the Congress Avenue Bridge to watch the bats fly out at sunset. I wasn’t sure the kids would care, but they were glued to the sight of thousands of bats streaming across the sky.
And of course, Austin’s food scene deserves its own trip. We kept it simple with food trucks, and honestly, they were some of the best meals we’ve had on any family outing.
Don’t Miss in Austin
- Texas State Capitol – Free tours, beautiful grounds, and surprisingly kid-friendly.
- Zilker Park – Bring a blanket and let the kids roam.
- Barton Springs Pool – Refreshing and iconic, though the water is chilly.
- Congress Avenue Bridge bats – A quirky, unforgettable family memory.
- Food trucks – Easy, affordable, and delicious.
Boerne, TX
Hill Country charm with a cave adventure thrown in
Boerne is such a fun little town for families. The downtown strip is super walkable, and my kids made a beeline for The Sugar Shack, a candy store that looks like it came straight out of my own childhood. We also wandered through quirky shops like Dinger Trading Co. and Flashback Funtiques, where you never know if you’ll find an antique toy or a neon sign from the ’80s.
For food, we stopped at Bear Moon Bakery & Café for cinnamon rolls the size of a plate (no regrets), and later grabbed dinner at The Dodging Duck Brewhaus, which has a big menu and a casual, family-friendly vibe. I also ducked into Black Rifle Coffee Company for a much-needed caffeine boost – because wrangling kids in gift shops requires fuel.
The highlight of the trip, though, was the Cave Without a Name. It’s cool (literally and figuratively), and the guided tour kept the kids entertained the whole way through.
Don’t Miss in Boerne
- Cave Without a Name – A natural wonder the whole family can enjoy.
- The Sugar Shack – Candy heaven for the kids (and let’s be honest, for me too).
- Main Street shopping – Local boutiques and antique stores with plenty of personality.
- Bear Moon Bakery – Grab pastries or breakfast before exploring.
Dripping Springs, TX
Nature, music, and a taste of the Hill Country
Dripping Springs feels like a perfect mix of outdoor beauty and small-town charm. We booked a time at Hamilton Pool Preserve, which is stunning – turquoise water, a massive rock overhang, and a trail that felt like an adventure without being too hard for the kids.
After our hike, we headed into town for food and shopping. I grabbed coffee at Mazama Coffee Co., which had a cozy, laid-back vibe, and we picked up sandwiches at Rolling in Thyme & Dough that were so fresh they tasted homemade. For shopping, I liked Vintage Soul TX and Cowgirls & Lace – both fun little boutiques with everything from clothes to home décor.
We wrapped up our day at Family Business Beer Co., which is surprisingly family-friendly. The outdoor area had space for the kids to run, live music for us to enjoy, and plenty of picnic tables to relax around.
Don’t Miss in Dripping Springs
- Hamilton Pool Preserve – Book ahead and bring good walking shoes.
- Mazama Coffee Co. – Perfect for a caffeine fix before exploring.
- Rolling in Thyme & Dough – Delicious sandwiches and pastries.
- Family Business Beer Co. – Easygoing atmosphere where kids can play while parents relax.
Johnson City & Pedernales Falls State Park
Waterfalls, history, and plenty of space to explore
One of our favorite family day trips has been to Johnson City and Pedernales Falls State Park. The falls themselves are gorgeous – wide sheets of water rushing over smooth rocks – and the kids loved climbing around and splashing in the shallow areas. It’s a place where you can pack a picnic, let everyone roam, and not feel rushed.
After exploring the park, we headed into Johnson City. We grabbed a snack at Johnson City Coffee Co., then wandered into Texcetera, which is packed with Texas-made gifts. I let the kids each pick something small, and then we stopped at Whittington’s Jerky to grab snacks for the car ride home. For dinner, Pecan Street Brewing hit the spot – good pizza, casual atmosphere, and outdoor seating where the kids didn’t have to sit still.
The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is also worth a stop. Between the historic farm and the open space, it was educational without feeling like a lecture, which is my kind of history lesson.
Don’t Miss in Johnson City & Pedernales
- Pedernales Falls State Park – Waterfalls, trails, and plenty of space to explore.
- LBJ National Historical Park – Hands-on history that even kids enjoy.
- Whittington’s Jerky – A must for road trip snacks.
- Pecan Street Brewing – Family-friendly food with a small-town vibe.
Tips for Traveling with Kids
Family trips are the best, but let’s be real – they can also be stressful. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make our vacations a lot smoother:
- Plan ahead, but stay flexible. Book the big stuff like hotels and activities, but leave room for downtime (kids will need it).
- Snacks are lifesavers. A bag of pretzels or fruit snacks can turn around a cranky car ride.
- Keep safety simple. We use matching wristbands with our phone numbers when going somewhere crowded, just in case.
- Take breaks. Whether it’s a playground stop or just pulling over for ice cream, little pauses make the whole trip easier on everyone.
Final Thoughts
What I love most about living near San Antonio is how many great family destinations are just a drive away. You don’t need a week off work or a pricey flight to make real memories. Whether it’s camping under the stars at Garner, floating down the Guadalupe in New Braunfels, or just spending a lazy afternoon on the beach in Corpus, these road trips are proof that the best family vacations don’t have to be complicated.
If you’re looking for ideas for your next trip, I hope this list gives you a good place to start. Pack the snacks, load up the car, and see where the road takes you – because sometimes, the best adventures are the ones just outside your own backyard.