Are We There Yet?
by Suzan Dees | Contributor
When I used to announce road trip plans to my children, I was often met with questions about wi-fi access, activities, and whether they had to join. Nowadays, however, those worries have faded. Thanks to the internet and a sprinkle of creativity, I’ve managed to transform our weekend getaways into adventures that even my 13-year-old daughter finds exciting.
Aurora, Texas – A Trip Beyond the Ordinary
One of our top day trip destinations is the quaint town of Aurora, which has a modest population of a little over 1,000. It’s easy to overlook, but don’t let that fool you; this town is known for an incident involving an alleged alien spacecraft crash in 1897. Legend suggests that the pilot was secretly buried in the local graveyard. Searching for the small cemetery will lead you to a headstone commemorating the alien, a unique piece of local lore.
Paris, Texas – A Taste of France in Texas
Surprise your preteen daughter with a trip to Paris—Paris, Texas, to be exact! The eye-catching 65-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower, complete with a cowboy hat, makes for fantastic family photographs. Don your berets and enjoy a leisurely walk around the charming downtown area.
Tyler, Texas – Packed with Activities
If you find yourself in East Texas, consider extending your trip with a visit to Tyler, just a half-hour west of Kilgore. This medium-sized city boasts the title of “Rose Capital of the World.” While the Rose Festival happens in October, you can explore the largest rose garden in the nation and the Tyler Rose Museum throughout the year. Don’t miss the quirky Brookshire’s Wildlife Museum, filled with an impressive array of taxidermy—yes, there are even monkeys playing poker! Your tween is bound to enjoy posting these unusual snapshots on social media.
Waco – A Bear-y Entertaining Destination
Waco is more than just a stop on the journey to Austin; it has much to offer. Home to the Baylor Bears, Waco features attractions like the Mammoth Site and the Dr. Pepper Museum, where you can savor the best Dr. Pepper you’ve ever tasted. For families visiting in spring and summer, Music on the Brazos provides a delightful series of free outdoor concerts along the picturesque Texas riverbank.
Kilgore, Texas – A Hub of Fun
If you have a budding performer or entrepreneur at home, take a break from digital devices and travel to Kilgore. Don’t miss the Rangerette Showcase and Museum along with the East Texas Oil Museum, both hidden gems in this small town. In summer, the vibrant Shakespeare Festival fills the town with culture. And while you’re there, be sure to enjoy the barbecue at The Country Tavern, a local favorite.
Pittsburg, Texas – Notable for Its History
The final stop on our tour brings us to Pittsburg, Texas, where the Northeast Texas Rural Heritage and Depot Museum showcases a full-scale replica of the Ezekiel airship. Local legend claims this airship was built in 1901 by a reverend using the Book of Ezekiel as a guide, and that it managed to fly approximately 50 yards—quite a feat if true, predating the Wright brothers by nearly two years! Also, make sure to snap a selfie with the oversized Bo Pilgrim head at Pilgrim’s Pride headquarters, which is sure to rack up likes on social media and possibly induce a few embarrassed giggles from your daughter.
Engaging & Educational Destinations in Dallas
If you’re seeking an enjoyable family retreat without catching a flight, the increasingly popular ‘staycation’ might just fit the bill. Here are fascinating destinations that promise entertainment while sneakily offering educational insights.
Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
411 Elm St.
Dallas, Texas 75202
214-747-6660 | jfk.org
Delve into the circumstances surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy through an array of photographs, documentaries, evidence, and interactive exhibits.
George W. Bush Presidential Center
2943 SMU Boulevard
Dallas, Texas 75205
214-200-4303 | bushcenter.org
Explore the presidency of George W. Bush via interactive exhibits, a replica of the Oval Office, and stroll through a beautiful rose garden and 15-acre park featuring native landscaping.
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
2201 N. Field St.
Dallas, Texas 75202
214-428-5555 | perotmuseum.org
Experience science like never before! Engage with exhibits, including the internationally acclaimed Sherlock Holmes exhibition.
Dallas World Aquarium
1801 N. Griffin St.
Dallas, Texas 75202
214-720-2224 | dwazoo.com
There’s much more than fish to discover here! Enjoy fossils, tropical birds, crocodiles, howler monkeys, and a whole world of wonders.
Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure – Dallas
400 S. Houston St.
Dallas, Texas 75202
Embark on an engaging scavenger hunt that leads you through significant cultural sites, starting at the Meyerson Symphony Center and continuing to iconic museums and public art displays throughout Dallas.
Dallas Segway Tours
603 Munger Ave.
Dallas, Texas 75202
972-821-9054 | dallassegwaytours.com
Teens and adults will enjoy exploring Dallas via a Segway, with various tour options like the “Dealey Plaza Then and Now” and the “Katy Trail Nature Glide.”
Dallas Holocaust Museum / Center for Education and Tolerance
211 N Record St., Suite 100
Dallas, Texas 75202
214-741-7500 | dallasholocaustmuseum.org
This important museum aims to foster understanding and remembrance, preserving the lessons of the Holocaust while advocating for tolerance and ethical responses against hatred and prejudice.
Photo courtesy of Dallas Holocaust Museum
