Craving a vacation getaway but unable to travel far? Don’t worry! You can still relax, unwind, and create lasting memories by indulging in a local staycation. In and around Dallas, you’ll find so many different choices of affordable staycation options depending on your vibe. The best part? They are all in DFW or surrounding areas! All of these 6 of the best staycation destinations in Dallas are close enough for a short weekend trip, or you can have the most amazing day trip and be back home by dinnertime to relax in the comfort of your home.

Hilton Anatole: A Resort-Style Haven

For those lusting for a resort vacation, the Hilton Anatole is the ultimate destination. This hotel checks all the boxes for a perfect family summer staycation. Your stay includes access to JadeWaters, the hotel’s resort-like pool complex. Dive into fun at JadeWaters, where you’ll find a lazy river, water slides, a splash pad, an adults-only section, and even a swim-up bar.

Picture yourself sunbathing with a refreshing boozy pineapple from JadeWaters Grill + Bar. You can also reserve luxury cabanas, day beds, or family alcoves for an extra touch of indulgence. After a day of swimming, immerse yourself in the steakhouse’s mouthwatering dishes while enjoying breathtaking skyline views.

Cedar Creek Lake: Your Lakeside Oasis

Just an hour south of Dallas, lies the next spot on our list of 6 of the best staycation destinations in Dallas. You’ll find an oasis at the fourth largest lake in Texas, Cedar Creek Lake—a perfect weekend or day trip destination. This stunning lake offers panoramic views, fantastic fishing spots, and all your favorite lake activities. Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying the weekend, Cedar Creek Lake provides a variety of options for renting Airbnb or VRBO properties. Many waterfront lake houses come with docks, so you can bring your own boat or rent one at the marina for hours of fun on the lake. You will have a blast with your family and friends here at Cedar Creek Lake!

Fossil Rim: A Wildlife Adventure

A short drive from Dallas, Fossil Rim awaits just southwest of Glen Rose. Getting to Fossil Rim is an easy drive—one hour from Ft. Worth, 90 minutes from Dallas and DFW Airport, and about three hours from Austin. This 1,800-acre wildlife preserve is home to 1,100 rare and endangered animals roaming freely in their natural habitats. Originally a collection of exotic animals, Fossil Rim’s focus has evolved into a mission for conservation, particularly for endangered species.

Most visitors to Fossil Rim come for the scenic safari park tour, which is a 9.5-mile drive through hills, forests, and grassy plains. From the comfort of your car, you’ll have the opportunity to spot around 50 species of exotic animals, including cheetahs, wolves, giraffes, rhinos, antelopes, zebras, emus, and ostriches. Keep your window rolled down and you might even receive a visit from a curious giraffe or zebra asking for a snack. Halfway through the drive, take a break at The Overlook Café for delicious food surrounded by breathtaking vistas. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Children’s Animal Center petting zoo and explore the Nature Store for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Lake Bob Sandlin: Serene Nature Getaway

Nestled in the heart of northeastern Texas, near the Louisiana border, you’ll discover the picturesque Lake Bob Sandlin State Park. This park attracts nature lovers from Dallas, Arlington, Fort Worth, and Shreveport, all within a two-hour drive. Known for its water-based recreational activities like boating, waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking, SUP, swimming, and fishing, Lake Bob Sandlin offers something for everyone.

Explore the park’s hiking trails that wind through scenic spots around the lake and its surrounding woodland. You can also embark on a geocache adventure to discover hidden treasures. If you wish to immerse yourself fully in the wilderness of this Texas State Park, over 100 different camping options are available, ranging from RV and trailer sites with hookups to primitive tent sites for seasoned campers.

Lake Cypress Springs: Your Water Wonderland

Located in East Texas, Lake Cypress Springs is a water wonderland that has captivated visitors for decades. Whether you’re swimming, fishing, boating, or camping, Lake Cypress Springs offers a slice of paradise for everyone. With over 12,000 acres of sparkling-clear waters and breathtaking natural beauty, you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life while enjoying much-needed rest and relaxation. Experience the unique combination of country living and easy access to great food and entertainment options, making Cypress Springs an ideal location for creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Gaylord Texan Resort: A Texas-Sized Retreat

Overlooking the scenic Lake Grapevine, the magnificent Gaylord Texan Resort immerses you in an authentic Texas experience. The resort offers a 10-acre Paradise Springs water park, the renowned Glass Cactus nightclub, luxurious accommodations, and a host of amenities. With surrounding restaurants, unique entertainment options, and endless shopping opportunities, you’ll never find yourself short of things to do. Indulge in the warmth of Texas hospitality and create unforgettable moments at the Gaylord Texan Resort.

You don’t have to travel far to experience the joy of a vacation. Dallas and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of affordable staycation destinations that cater to every taste. Whether you’re yearning for a resort-style getaway, a lakeside retreat, a wildlife adventure, a serene nature getaway, or a Texas-sized retreat, this list of 6 of the best staycation destinations in Dallas will fulfill your vacation dreams. So pack your bags, embark on a short journey, and immerse yourself in the summer adventures near Dallas!