Houston Staycation Ideas for the Family

class=wp-image-753

With inflation affecting the travel industry and less COVID restrictions triggering a rise in summer flight bookings, you may be considering local vacation options that dont require air travel. 

Need some quick vacation ideas that are right in your backyard or less than an hour and a half away? Heres our roundup of the best places to staycation in the Greater Houston area. 

  1. The Woodlands Resort 
class=wp-image-755
Photo credit: The Woodlands Resort

With just over 2,000 glowing Google reviews, this 4-star family-friendly hotel is truly a fan favorite in the Greater Houston area. Sprawled across 350 acres of lush green land, this local gem is the place for rest, recreation and relaxation. From the Forest Oasis Water Park to two championship golf courses and the cutest workout youll find in town (goat yoga!), The Woodlands Resort is the perfect family getaway. Plus, if youre looking for some live music events, check out The Pavillions concert schedule ahead of time. The venue is just 6 minutes away! 

  1. Margaritaville Lake Resort 
class=wp-image-757
Photo credit: Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe

Looking for a Caribbean-inspired getaway without the flight? This waterfront property offers just that alongside the shores of Lake Conroe. Sip tropical beverages in a private pool cabana while the kids splash around, spend some time on the green or rent a pontoon boat and venture out on the lake for some much needed time with nature. 

  1. Sam Houston National Forest
class=wp-image-758
Photo credit: Sam Houston National Forest

Looking to connect even further with nature? The Sam Houston National Forest is the perfect place to immerse yourselves in the great outdoors. Just one of four national forests in the state of Texas, this American treasure is definitely one to discover. Reserve your space on one of three developed campgrounds and gear up for some canoeing, mountain biking and hiking on the Lone Star Hiking Trail. 

  1. Hotel ZaZa Museum District 
class=wp-image-760
Photo credit: Hotel ZaZa Museum District

Nestled in the center of the Museum District, Hotel ZaZa is always a wonderful accommodation for family adventures in the city. This premier boutique hotel offers everything from posh suites and pool villas to luxurious spa treatments and fine dining at the Monarch Bistro. Conveniently situated near Hermann Park, the Houston Zoo and the Museum of Fine Arts (MFAH), theres truly something for everyone to enjoy. If youre traveling with children, theyll love an afternoon of food truck hopping and snow cones at Discovery Green.   

  1. Post Oak Hotel
class=wp-image-761
Photo credit: Post Oak Hotel

Feeling like a swanky 5-star hotel staycation? If youre looking to rest, relax, recharge and refresh, this luxury retreat is just what the doctor ordered. Savor culinary cuisine at Mastros Steakhouse and Willie Gs Seafood, shop designer boutiques and definitely take time to pamper yourselves at the spa. You also cant miss the art collection featuring rare works by Frank Stella and Alex Katz. Bonus: this luxury hotel in Houston scores major points for being pet-friendly, so feel free to bring the furbaby along, too! 

  1. Kemah Boardwalk
class=wp-image-762
Photo credit: Visit Houston

Few things transport me back to childhood like the sweet smell of cotton candy and a good stroll along the boardwalk! If youre up for a longer drive South, this iconic Texas Gulf Coast theme park rarely disappoints. This vibrant amusement park offers everything from roller coaster rides and traditional carnival food to a renowned Stingray Reef where the kiddos can get up close and personal! Need a good Kemah hotel recommendation? Try out the Boardwalk Inn for comfy seaside accommodations right in the midst of the action. 

  1. Galveston Beach
class=wp-image-763
Photo credit: Galveston.com

Summertime always calls for hitting the beach. Just a 35-minute drive away from Kemah Boardwalk, Galveston Beach is one of the best beaches for families in Texas. Be sure to plant your umbrellas in the sand at Stewart Beach and play a few games of cornhole, giant Jenga and volleyball. Feel like traveling back in time? Dont miss out on other cool things to do in Galveston like visiting the Moody Mansion and the Galveston Naval Museum

Favourites If you enjoyed this post, please consider sharing it with others.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the HRIS.
Advertisement