There’s still time to squeeze in one more vacation before school starts. Just pack up the car with a few snacks, drinks and, of course, the family, and get ready to set out on an adventure. There are so many vibrant communities outside the Metroplex that are just waiting to be explored. If you have a free day this month (or are looking for a way to entertain the kids before the semester starts), here’s where you should spend it.
Glen Rose, TX
Animal lovers can get close and personal with exotic creatures in less than two hours. Five miles from Glen Rose sits Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, the home of more than 1,000 animals from 50 different species. Guests can see everything from emus and ostriches to zebras and giraffes on the center’s guided tours or in the comfort of their cars on a self-guided excursion. After venturing through the space, stop by the Children’s Animal Center to interact with a few of the animals, like the Nigerian dwarf goat Nausie, the 100-pound African spurred tortoise Ralph and the pot-bellied pig Hamlet. After taking it all in, tourists can learn more about the animals that used to walk the planet at Dinosaur Valley State Park. Keep an eye out for the real dinosaur tracks that sit along the Paluxy River. Or, you can watch to see what real wildlife calls the area its home in 2019. Either way, this quick day trip makes for a great educational opportunity.
Waco, TX
A straight shot down I-35 will bring you to bear country – Baylor Bear country, that is. Waco is full of historical museums, quaint retailers and fun restaurants. But most day-trippers travel down to take in their favorite Texan HGTV’s stomping ground. The city is home to Chip and Joanna Gaines from “Fixer Upper,” and they have filled the community with beautiful amenities, including Magnolia Market at the Silos. The location features a sprawling green space full of lawn games, food trucks, a garden, a flower shop and a home décor haven. With all their options, it’s easy to establish a home base on the property and let your family take in their surroundings. Plus, it makes for a great backdrop for group pictures. To refuel before heading back to Southlake, swing by Common Grounds. Their espresso drinks and house specialties can be enjoyed on their array of outdoor seating arrangements or in the car on the way home.
Possum Kingdom Lake
Family fun awaits at Possum Kingdom Lake, just a three-hour road trip away. The Texas oasis features more than 18,000 acres of water and is surrounded by rolling hills and cliffs, making for quite the view. There are plenty of traditional outdoor activities that will get your blood pumping like boating, swimming, canoeing and fishing. But there’s also hydraflying available, thanks to WaterRush in the Cove. Guests can rent Jetovators, on weekends only, and be thrust into the air using the lake’s own water. It’ll be an experience you soon won’t forget. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to take in the entire area’s scenery. For sightseeing without the adrenaline, Possum Kingdom Lake offers beautiful hiking and cycling trails. The park also features sandy beaches perfect for a family picnic or afternoon spent looking over the water.
Athens, TX
While this East Texas town might not have as much history as the Greece destination, Athens, Texas, located just two hours away from Southlake, gives tourists the opportunity to slow down and take in their surroundings. With an array of vineyards, wineries and a brewhouse, parents can find a whole lot to get excited about after they roll into town. But kids will also enjoy venturing around the Henderson County Historical Museum as well as the East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society. The arboretum offers more than 100 acres of wooded area full of trees, flowers and wildlife. And with on-site attractions like the Wofford House, a home built in the 1850s, and Little Red School House, a replica of an early Texas schoolhouse, you might be able to sneak in a little bit of learning on your voyage.