Best 25 Things to Do in Texas with Kids- Ultimate Guide for Family Fun

Planning a family trip? Texas is packed with fun things to do with kids! If you’re looking for theme parks, outdoor adventures, or hands-on museums then you must visit texes. There’s something for everyone.

Start with roller coasters at Six Flags Over Texas, walk real dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park, or visit Space Center Houston to see space shuttles up close. Animal lovers will enjoy SeaWorld San Antonio and the Houston Zoo, while families looking for budget-friendly fun can explore The Alamo, Klyde Warren Park, and the San Antonio RiverWalk for free.

For something unique, you can try spray-painting cars at Cadillac Ranch, exploring underground caves, or swimming at Barton Springs Pool. No matter the season, Texas has an unforgettable adventure. Let’s explore the best kid-friendly attractions in Texas

Top 10 Kid-Friendly Attractions in Texas

Looking for the best family destinations? These must-visit attractions are packed with fun!

1. Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington) – Thrill rides & family entertainment

Location: 2201 E Road to Six Flags St, Arlington, TX 76010

Opening Hours: Varies by season; typically 11 AM – 10 PM

If your kids love roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment, Six Flags Over Texas is the perfect destination. There is something for everyone whether you’re a thrill-seeker or looking for kid-friendly rides.

Why Kids Will Love It:

• Bugs Bunny Boomtown – Perfect for younger kids with gentle rides.
• The Texas Giant & Titan – For older kids and teens who love extreme thrills!
• Live Entertainment & Shows – Catch performances throughout the day.
• Splash Water Rides – Cool off with fun water attractions in summer!

Tip: Don’t miss the seasonal events like Fright Fest (Halloween) and Holiday in the Park (Christmas-themed rides & decorations).

2. Schlitterbahn Waterpark (New Braunfels)

Location: 400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130

Opening Hours: Seasonal; generally 10 AM – 6 PM

Looking for fun things to do in Texas with kids for spring break? Schlitterbahn Waterpark is a summer paradise with water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones.

Why Families Love It:

• Boogie Bahn Surfing Ride – Kids can test their surfing skills!
• Lazy Rivers & Wave Pools – Relax or ride the waves.
• Tadpole’s Tadpole – Shallow play area for toddlers.
• BYO Food & Drinks – Save money by bringing your own picnic!

Tip: Arrive early to grab a shaded cabana, as they fill up fast!

3. SeaWorld San Antonio

Location: 10500 SeaWorld Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251

Opening Hours: Varies by season; typically 10 AM – 9 PM

Marine life + thrilling rides = a perfect family day! SeaWorld combines animal encounters, roller coasters, and educational exhibits.

Must-See Attractions:

• Orca & Dolphin Shows – Exciting performances with real marine animals!
• Sesame Street Bay of Play – Kid-friendly rides for little ones.
• Steel Eel & Texas Stingray – High-speed roller coasters for adrenaline junkies.

Tip: Upgrade to an Animal Experience Pass to interact with dolphins and penguins up close!

4. Houston Zoo

Location: 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030

Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM daily

This zoo is home to over 6,000 animals. The Houston Zoo offers interactive exhibits and a children’s petting zoo. It is perfect for a budget-friendly family outing!

What’s Inside:

• African Forest – Giraffes, zebras, and rhinos!
• Texas Wetlands – Native Texas species like alligators.
• Children’s Zoo – Hands-on experiences with friendly animals.
• Hermann Park Nearby – Make it a full-day trip with a picnic!

Tip: Download the Houston Zoo App for a map & feeding schedules.

5. Dallas World Aquarium

Location: 1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM daily

A mix of rainforest + aquarium, this attraction immerses kids in a tropical wonderland full of animals from around the world!

Highlights:

• Walk-through Rainforest – Free-flying birds and sloths.
• Shark Tunnel – Watch sharks swim above you!
• Manatees & Otters Exhibit – Kids love these playful creatures.

Tip: Arrive early because this is a popular attraction, and tickets sell out fast.

6. Austin Nature & Science Center

Location: 2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746

Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Tue-Sat), 12 PM – 5 PM (Sun), Closed Monday

Looking for a free and educational experience for your kids? The Austin Nature & Science Center is an interactive learning space where children can explore nature, science, and wildlife up close. It’s perfect for curious young minds who love hands-on activities.

What Kids Will Love:

• Dino Pit – Let your kids dig for fossils like real paleontologists!
• Live Animal Exhibits – Meet rescued Texas wildlife, including owls, turtles, and foxes.
• STEM Discovery Lab – Interactive exhibits focused on geology, physics, and biology.
• Outdoor Nature Trails – A great way for kids to explore Austin’s natural beauty.

Tip: Bring comfortable shoes because this center has outdoor areas with nature trails and exploration zones. 

7. Perot Museum of Nature and Science (Dallas) 

Location: 2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed Tuesdays)

If your kids love dinosaurs, space, and science experiments, they’ll be obsessed with the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This huge, multi-level museum has everything from a robotic lab to a virtual earthquake simulator.Overall it is one of the best indoor attractions for kids in Texas.

Must-See Exhibits for Families:

• Earthquake Simulator – Experience the power of tectonic shifts in a real shaking room!
• Sports Motion Lab – Race against a T-Rex or an Olympic athlete and analyze your speed!
• Hands-On Science Experiments – Kids can build, create, and test their engineering skills.

Tip: Get there early! This museum is one of the most popular in Dallas, and weekends get crowded.

8. The DoSeum (San Antonio)

Location: 2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM daily

For families with toddlers and young kids, The DoSeum is the ultimate hands-on learning experience. Every exhibit encourages imagination, creativity, and problem-solving.

Top Exhibits at The DoSeum:

• Robotics & Coding Lab – Let kids build and program robots (perfect for future tech geniuses!).
• Sensory Play Zones – Ideal for toddlers who love touch-and-feel learning experiences.
• Outdoor Play Areas – Climbing structures, splash zones, and open-air exhibits.
• Story Time Adventures – A reading space that brings fairy tales to life.

Tip: Buy tickets online to avoid long lines, especially on weekends!

9. Children’s Museum of Houston

Location: 1500 Binz St, Houston, TX 77004

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM daily

This massive 90,000-square-foot museum is one of the most exciting places for kids in Texas. It offers hands-on learning and play areas for all ages. If your child loves interactive experiences then they’ll have a blast here!

Why Kids Love It:

• Kidtropolis – A mini city where kids can pretend to be doctors, store owners, and firefighters.
• Inventor’s Workshop – Encourages children to build, design, and test creations.
• Art Academy – Let kids get creative with painting, sculpture, and crafts.
• FlowWorks Water Zone – An interactive water exhibit where kids can learn about hydropower and currents.

Tip: Visit on Thursday evenings for Free Family Night (limited capacity, so arrive early!).

10. Legoland Discovery Center (Grapevine)

Location: 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine, TX 76051

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM daily

If your kids are obsessed with LEGO, then Legoland Discovery Center is a must-visit attraction in Texas. This indoor playland is designed for kids aged 3–10. It offers rides, building zones, and LEGO-themed attractions.

Best Attractions at Legoland Discovery Center:

• LEGO Build & Test Zone – Kids can build their own race cars and test them on speed ramps.
• LEGO Kingdom Quest Ride – A family-friendly laser shooting ride with interactive fun.
• LEGO 4D Cinema – Watch LEGO-themed mini-movies with wind, rain, and snow effects.
• Miniature Texas Landmarks – See Dallas, Houston, and Austin landmarks made entirely out of LEGO bricks!

Tip: Buy tickets online for discounts and check for special LEGO-building events

5 Unique Things to Do in Texas with Kids

Tired of the usual attractions? These unique destinations will give your family a one-of-a-kind experience!

11. Dinosaur Valley State Park (Glen Rose) 

Location: 1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043

Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM daily

Ever wondered what it’s like to walk in the footsteps of real dinosaurs? At Dinosaur Valley State Park, kids can see actual dinosaur footprints preserved in the riverbed!

Why It’s a Must-Visit:

• Dinosaur Tracks – Walk alongside 100-million-year-old dino footprints!
• Camping & Hiking – Enjoy family-friendly trails and overnight stays in nature.
• River Fun – When water levels are low, kids can splash and explore the riverbed.
• Scenic Picnic Areas – Pack a lunch and enjoy Texas nature!

Tip: Water levels change often so it is a good idea to check the park’s website before your visit!

12. Space Center Houston

Location: 1601 NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM daily

Got a future astronaut in the family? Space Center Houston is the ultimate space exploration experience!

Must-See Exhibits:

• NASA Tram Tour – Visit Mission Control & Rocket Park.
• Touch a Moon Rock – One of the only places on Earth where you can!
• Astronaut Training Simulators – Experience what it’s like to be in space!
• Starship Gallery – See real spacecraft used by NASA!

Tip: Arrive early for the NASA Tram Tour—it’s the most popular attraction and lines get long!

13. Natural Bridge Caverns (San Antonio) – Underground cave adventure

Location: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266

Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM daily

One of Texas’ most stunning natural wonders! Explore an underground cave system filled with breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites.

Why Kids Love It:

• Discovery Tour – A kid-friendly cave tour through underground formations.
• Outdoor Maze & Zip Lines – Fun activities above ground too!
• Gem Mining – Kids can search for hidden treasures!

Tip: Wear good shoes because the caves have steep and slippery paths.

14. Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo) 

Location: I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124

Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (FREE entry!)

One of Texas’ most Instagrammable attractions! Kids can spray-paint 10 classic Cadillacs buried nose-down in the ground.

What to Bring:

• Spray Paint – Create your own graffiti artwork!
• Camera – Perfect for family pictures!
• Old Clothes – Spray paint can get messy!

Tip: The artwork changes daily, so leave your mark and take a photo!

15. Hamilton Pool Preserve (Dripping Springs)

Location: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Opening Hours: By reservation only (Check website for availability)

A hidden gem! This breathtaking natural pool features a waterfall, limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear water.

Things to Do:

• Swimming & Cliff Jumping – Cool off in the turquoise water.
• Hiking Trails – Beautiful scenic walks to the waterfall.
• Nature Photography – A picture-perfect paradise!

Tip: Reservations are required! Book early, as spots fill up fast

5 Cheap & Free Things to Do in Texas with Kids

Want to have fun without spending much? These spots are totally worth it!

16. The Alamo (San Antonio) – A historic site with free entry

Location: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5:30 PM daily

Step into Texas history for free! The Alamo is one of the most famous landmarks in the U.S. and a must-visit if you’re in San Antonio.

Why Families Love It:

• Learn About Texas’ Past – Walk through the old mission and battlefield.
• Live Reenactments – Watch actors bring history to life!
• Beautiful Courtyards – A peaceful place for family photos.

Tip: Arrive early! It gets crowded fast, especially on weekends.

17. Klyde Warren Park (Dallas)

Location: 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201

Opening Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM daily

A green space in the heart of Dallas! This park is packed with kid-friendly activities and best of all. It’s completely free!

What’s Fun Here?

• Huge Playground – Swings, climbing structures, and slides.
• Splash Pad – Perfect for cooling off in summer.
• Free Events – Music, yoga, and outdoor movies.
• Food Trucks – Try delicious snacks (affordable & tasty!).

Tip: Bring a blanket and snacks for a fun, budget-friendly picnic.

18. Barton Springs Pool (Austin)

Location: 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746

Opening Hours: 5 AM – 10 PM daily

Looking for a cheap way to beat the Texas heat? Barton Springs is a natural swimming pool with clear, cool water, which makes it perfect for a family splash day.

Why Families Love It:

• Spring-Fed Water – A cool 68°F year-round!
• Relaxing Beach Area – Plenty of space for kids to play.
• Picnic-Friendly – Shady trees & grassy spots for a family lunch.

Tip: Bring water shoes because the bottom is rocky in some spots!

19. San Antonio River Walk – Free scenic walk with dining options

Location: 849 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Open 24/7 (FREE to explore!)

One of Texas’ most famous attractions! The San Antonio River Walk is a scenic waterfront walkway filled with restaurants, boat rides, and cultural landmarks.

What’s Fun for Kids?

• Riverboat Rides – Affordable guided tours (kids love it!).
• Tons of Food Stops – Grab an ice cream or a taco on the go!
• Live Music & Street Performers – Always something fun happening.

Tip: Visit at night because at night the twinkling lights make it extra magical!

20. South Padre Island Beaches

Location: South Padre Island, TX

Open Year-Round

A great family beach day without spending much! South Padre Island has free public beaches which makes it one of the best budget-friendly spots in Texas.

Things to Do:

• Swimming & Sandcastle Building – Endless fun on the shore.
• Dolphin Watching – Spot dolphins from the pier!
• Fishing & Boating – Great activities for older kids.

Tip: Visit in spring or fall to avoid big crowds.

5 Fun Things to Do in Texas for Young Adults & Families

Looking for adventure? These activities are great for both kids and young adults!

21. iFly Indoor Skydiving (Multiple Cities)

Locations: Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 9 PM (Varies by location)

Ever wanted to skydive but afraid of heights? iFly gives you the thrill of freefall in a safe, indoor wind tunnel!

Why It’s Fun for Families:

• Feel the Rush! – Experience real freefall without jumping from a plane.
• Great for All Ages – Even kids as young as 3 years old can try it!
• Cool Mid-Air Photos – Get an epic flying snapshot!

Tip: Book online in advance to get a discount & shorter wait time!

22. Lady Bird Lake (Austin) – Kayaking & paddleboarding fun

Location: Austin, TX

Open Sunrise to Sunset

Love being on the water? Lady Bird Lake is the perfect place for families who enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and outdoor fun.

Best Activities:

• Kayaking & Canoeing – Rentals are available for all skill levels.
• Scenic Trails – Enjoy a peaceful bike or walking path along the lake.
• See the Famous Bats – Watch thousands of bats fly out from under Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset!

Tip: Visit at sunset for the best views & bat-watching experience!

23. K1 Speed & Andretti Karting (Multiple Cities)

Locations: Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio

Opening Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM (Varies by location)

Ready to race? K1 Speed and Andretti Karting offer indoor go-kart racing, where young adults and families can enjoy fast, electric karts on professional tracks.

Why It’s Awesome:

• High-Speed Racing – Electric karts go up to 45 mph!
• Arcade Games & VR Zones – More fun while waiting for your race.
• In-House Dining – Grab a snack after a fast and fun race.

Tip: Check for special family race packages to save money!

24. Escape Rooms (Multiple Locations)

Locations: Available in Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and more

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 11 PM (Varies by location)

Love solving mysteries? Escape rooms put you and your family in a themed adventure where you have 60 minutes to solve puzzles and “escape” the room.

Why Families Love Escape Rooms:

• Different Themes – From spy missions to haunted houses!
• Exciting Teamwork – Solve riddles, uncover clues, and beat the clock!
• Fun for All Ages – Many escape rooms have kid-friendly levels too!

Tip: Book in advance, as weekend slots fill up fast!

25. Texas State Fair (Dallas – Seasonal) – Rides, food, and family fun

Location: Fair Park, Dallas, TX

Event Dates: Late September – Mid-October

The biggest fair in Texas! Families and young adults love the exciting rides, delicious fried food, and live performances.

Must-See Attractions at the Texas State Fair:

• Thrill Rides & Ferris Wheel – Perfect for families and adrenaline junkies.
• Famous Fried Foods – Try Fletcher’s Corny Dogs, deep-fried Oreos, and crazy new fair food!
• Live Shows & Music – Enjoy concerts, rodeo performances, and talent shows.

Tip: Buy a Fair Pass online to get discounted ride tickets!

Final thoughts

Texas is full of fun things to do with kids.  There’s something for everyone including theme parks, outdoor adventures, hands-on museums, 

You don’t need a big budget to explore. Places like The Alamo, San Antonio River Walk, and Barton Springs Pool offer great experiences for free. If you looking for something different then you can walk in real dinosaur tracks, take a NASA tour, or let the kids paint at Cadillac Ranch!

Now it’s time to make it happen! Book a family-friendly at iBidBnB for a comfortable and easy trip. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a long vacation, the right place to stay makes all the difference.