Summer’s here, and it’s time to hit the road for a family adventure. Pack the kiddos’ favorite snacks (don’t forget your favorites, too!) and set off on a vacation that is close to home. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best quick trips, packed with family-friendly activities and delicious eats for exciting weekend retreats.
BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI
Drive Time: 2 hours, 12 minutes
coastalmississippi.com
Kick off your shoes, put your feet in the sand, and explore 62 miles of scenic shoreline. Don’t forget the sunscreen! When everyone is done soaking up the sun, venture indoors to one of the many museums that call Biloxi home. Snag a Coastal Mississippi Attractions Pass for the crew to build an itinerary full of fun. Passes provide one-, two-, or three-day entry to the Biloxi Lighthouse, Coastal Mississippi Mardi Gras Museum, INFINITY Science Center, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, Mississippi Aviation Heritage Museum, TrainTastic, and more.
Sun and fun will surely work up an appetite, and in Biloxi, there’s plenty to choose from. Many restaurants are located within the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, but there are others offering a different experience too. For a family-friendly menu, check out Aztecas Restaurant & Cantina. For coastal-inspired dishes, try Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Restaurant, Mary Mahoney’s, and The Reef Biloxi. Pop’s Pizzeria, The Toasted Yolk Cafe, and Sweet Shack are also must-visits!
When it’s time to rest, Biloxi offers a wide selection of accommodations, whether you prefer camping, a bed and breakfast, or hotel.
GULF SHORES, ALABAMA
Drive Time: 4 hours, 8 minutes
gulfshores.com
A trip to Gulf Shores is a favorite among many families from Baton Rouge. This quick drive will have the entire family building sandcastles in no time. For even more fun, join Sand Castle University for some tips and tricks from the pros on building ultimate sandcastle masterpieces.
There’s so much more to experience too. Mini golf, paintball, escape rooms, Waterville USA, Exploreum Science Center, The Track Family Fun Park, The Wharf, and Magni Gyroflight are just a few of the must-dos in the area.
When it’s time to eat, Gulf Shores offers a variety of family-friendly options, including The Hangout, Bahama Bob’s Beachside Cafe, Shrimp Basket, and Tacky Jacks.
At the end of the day, rest your eyes at one of the many lodging options available: beach houses, condos, resorts, hotels, and cabins. There are even pet-friendly options to choose from.
HOUSTON, TEXAS
Drive Time: 4 hours, 16 minutes
visithoustontexas.com
America’s fourth-largest city is a destination filled with world-class dining, attractions, arts, hotels, shopping, and fun. Weekends in this vibrant metropolis are jam-packed with activities, including visits to the Downtown Aquarium, Houston Zoo, Space Center Houston, Children’s Museum of Houston, and The Health Museum.
The shopping experience is unmatched at The Galleria. For those visiting with little ones, The Little Galleria play area is 2,000 square feet of fun, featuring mini versions of Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Sak’s Fifth Avenue, and more—along with a soft-foam area filled with climbers, slides, tunnels, and a play wall.
Grab a bite to eat at Biskit Junkie, Canyon Creek, Rainforest Cafe, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream, and Red Circle Ice Cream. Kiddos can eat free on select days at Freebirds, Buff Burgers, Dish Society, Feges BBQ, and Mendocino Farms.
Make a splash in the evening at Four Seasons, Omni Houston Hotel, The St. Regis, or The Houstonian Club & Spa—each outfitted with the perfect pool for families.
NAVARRE BEACH, FLORIDA
Drive Time: 4 hours, 25 minutes
getrelaxing.com
Dubbed “Florida’s most relaxing place,” Navarre Beach provides a quiet retreat for families. Don’t let the laid-back vibe fool you, though—there’s still plenty of excitement and fun around every corner.
After dropping off your bags at your vacation rental or suite, venture out and explore the uncrowded beaches. Soak in the sun, build sandcastles, or splash the day away; there’s plenty of space to move around and enjoy.
If the crew needs a break from the sand between their toes, check out the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center to say hello to the sea turtles before heading over to the Fishing Pier—the longest pier in the Gulf—to drop a line or take a stroll. Other options for fun include Blackwater River State Park and the Gulf Breeze Zoo.
When it comes to food, you’ll find something for everyone on the menus at TC’s Front Porch, Juana’s Pagodas & Sailors’ Grill, and Boomerang Pizza Kitchen.
HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS
Drive Time: 6 hours, 15 minutes
hotsprings.org
If affordable family fun is a top priority, a visit to Hot Springs is just the vacation you’re looking for. Lodging is comfortable or immersive, depending on your family’s preferences, allowing you to spend the night in a cabin or settle down in a hotel.
Adventures abound at Adventure Works, Inc., a zip-lining experience giving a bird’s-eye view of native plants, trees, and wildlife. Animal lovers will enjoy the up-close experience at the Arkansas Alligator Farm & Petting Zoo, where they can hold a baby alligator, feed and pet miniature goats, and see wolves, lions, monkeys, and raccoons. For some prehistoric fun, check out the Mid-America Science Museum, home to DinoTrek—an immersive experience that lets guests step into the world of dinosaurs and observe their habitats.
Capture the visit in a whole new way at Go Foto Yourselfie Studio, featuring a variety of backdrops and props that take selfies to another level. For go-karts, bumper boats, mini-golf, and laser tag, check out Funtrackers Family Fun Park.
A stop at A&W Restaurant is a must for delicious food and the famous Root Beer Float. Satisfy those sweet cravings with a visit to Kilwin’s for a caramel apple, or build your own candy bag at Candy Craze.
