Whether you’re craving a quick overnight getaway, a poolside staycation, or a beach trip without hopping on a plane, here are some of the best summer escapes within driving distance of Ellis County and DFW.
Staycation Vibes
Texican Court
Hotel Drover | Fort Worth
Located in the Stockyards, Hotel Drover blends Texas luxury with western charm. Think cozy courtyards, upscale dining, beautiful rooms, and one of the best hotel atmospheres in North Texas for a relaxing weekend away.
The Statler | Dallas
A downtown Dallas favorite with retro rooftop pool vibes, great restaurants, and skyline views. Don’t miss the hidden speakeasy tucked underneath the hotel for a fun late-night stop.
Texican Court | Las Colinas
This boutique hotel mixes retro roadside motel aesthetics with modern upgrades and resort-style touches. Bright colors, outdoor games, and laid-back pool vibes make it perfect for a casual summer getaway close to home.
Kid-Friendly Staycations
Great Wolf Lodge
Gaylord Texan Resort | Grapevine
A longtime North Texas favorite featuring resort pools, lazy river vibes, restaurants, seasonal activities, and family-friendly fun without needing to leave DFW.
Great Wolf Lodge | Grapevine
The ultimate indoor waterpark getaway for families. Waterslides, wave pools, kid activities, and themed rooms make this one a summer favorite for little kids especially.
Omni PGA Frisco Resort | Frisco
Luxury meets family-friendly with multiple pools, outdoor games, restaurants, and a beautiful resort setup that feels like a true vacation destination.
Beach Escapes
South Padre Island
Crystal Beach | Texas Gulf Coast
About 4.5 hours away, Crystal Beach is known for its relaxed atmosphere and drive-on beach access — perfect for easygoing weekends and sunset golf cart rides.
Port Aransas | Texas Coast
A fun beach town with great seafood, shopping, fishing, and vacation energy. One of the most popular Texas beach getaways for a reason.
South Padre Island | South Texas
If you’re up for a longer drive, South Padre offers clearer water, nightlife, beachfront resorts, and classic Texas summer beach vibes.
Weekend Trips Under 4 Hours
Broken Bow, OK
Waco, Texas
An easy weekend getaway filled with Magnolia shopping, coffee shops, local restaurants, and fun downtown exploring.
Broken Bow, Oklahoma
Cabin getaways, lake days, hiking trails, and pine forest scenery make Broken Bow one of the most popular escape spots from DFW.
Fredericksburg, Texas
Hill Country charm, wineries, boutique shopping, peach season, and beautiful scenery make Fredericksburg one of the best summer road trips in Texas.
☀️ Sometimes you don’t need a huge vacation — just a good weekend away. Where is your favorite place to beat the heat?
