Are you looking for a magical getaway to celebrate the holiday season? Our group of 9 moms and 22 kids recently embarked on a 3-day road trip from the Austin area to Dallas, and it was so much fun! From enchanting Christmas lights to unique shopping and family-friendly activities, this itinerary is packed with holiday fun that you’ll love.
Our home base for this trip was the Hampton Inn Farmers Branch, where the staff treated us like royalty. Despite our large, and sometimes rowdy crew, they made sure every need was met with a smile. Their comfortable accommodations, hot breakfast spread, and super sweet staff made it the perfect choice for a large group.
Here’s how we spent our holiday road trip:
Christmas Magic at the Dallas Arboretum
We kicked off our adventure at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Christmas Village charmed the kids (and moms!) with its life-size shops, twinkling lights, and festive music. We strolled through the stunning 12 Days of Christmas gazebos, each intricately decorated and glowing with holiday cheer.
The Children’s Garden was a hit with its hands-on STEM activities and outdoor exhibits that kept our kids engaged and entertained, even in the rain. Whether they were learning about weather patterns or experimenting with lip gloss flavors, it was both fun and educational.
Tip; If you’re already a member of another Botanical Garden in Texas, such as The Wildflower Center in Austin, you can get in free – up to 2 adults and 4 children. The Children’s Garden requires a separate $3 ticket, though.
Wild Adventures at the Dallas Zoo
The Dallas Zoo was our next stop, and it delivered on every front. As a large group, we were thrilled to take advantage of their group discounts. The play areas gave the kids space to burn off energy, and the bird- and giraffe-feeding experiences were unforgettable.
In the evening, you can add on tickets to Zoo Lights, a magical display of festive lights with unique shows and interactive experiences.
Tip: Bring comfortable shoes and allow a lot of time to explore the whole zoo and linger for zoo keeper chats.
Christmas Cheer in Grapevine
We dedicated a few evening hours to Grapevine, aptly named the Christmas Capital of Texas. The town offers free parking, ice skating, thousands of lights, music everywhere, and shopping at the charming boutiques. The Grapevine Mills Mall is nearby and worth a visit if you have extra time. Meow Wolf is a crowd favorite, and Legoland is a fun stop for the younger kids.
The real highlight was Harvest Dining Hall that served up a huge variety of delicious food from various counter-style restaurants and one of the best happy hours we’ve ever experienced. It was the perfect spot for the moms to relax while the kids enjoyed their meals.
Grapevine truly captures the spirit of the holidays with its festive decorations, music, and joyful atmosphere.
Tip: Grab dinner really early (4-ish) to avoid long lines and enjoy happy hour discounts.
Bonus Stop: Christmas at the Magnolia Silos
On our way home, we couldn’t resist stopping by Christmas at the Magnolia Silos in Waco. The Victorian Santa was a delightful surprise, offering free photos and a memorable experience for the kids.
We indulged in mouthwatering treats from the bakery and multiple food trucks. Additional options at Magnolia include inspiration for home decor, stick ball on the ball field, lawn games, and lattes by a cozy wood fire. This stop was the cherry on top of our incredible holiday road trip.
Why We Loved This Trip
- Family-Friendly Activities: Every stop was designed with kids in mind, but the moms had just as much fun!
- Hampton Inn Farmers Branch: Their hospitality and comfort made a big difference for our large group.
- Festive Vibes: From dazzling lights to charming decorations, every location embodied the magic of the season.
If you’re looking for a holiday road trip that combines adventure, relaxation, and plenty of Christmas cheer, this itinerary is a must-try.
