Description
Let’s head to Texas for an amazing Lone Star State multi centre adventure that takes us to four of the state’s most popular destinations. Houston, San Antonio, Fredericksburg and Austin here we come!
Houston
With a perfect location in the uptown Galleria area of Houston the Westin Oaks Hotel combines first class service and modern amenities with direct access to the largest mall in Texas, the Galleria, making this hotel the ideal setting to experience the host of world class attractions, events and entertainment that the exciting and vibrant city of Houston has to offer.
To Infinity and beyond – explore the fascinating history of manned space travel at Houston Space Centre, the official visitor experience at NASA’s Johnson Space Centre where you’ll be able to see some of the capsules that were actually flown in space and take a behind the scenes tram tour of the Space Centre. Get an insight into the workings of the Historical Mission Control Centre, the Space Station Shuttle, and discover for yourself the rigours of astronaut training at this informative and entertaining attraction.
For a fantastic family day out head to the Children’s Museum of Houston, its educational, informative, exciting and above all fun – the kids will love it. The interactive Magic Bus like exploration of the human body provides a fascinating insight into our personalities, the workings of our internal organs and the ageing process – if you want to see what you’ll look like in 30 years’ time then this is the place to go. Kids can run their own city and make their own news reports at Kidtropolis, they love making their own gadgets in the Invention Convention and discovering how hydropower works at the Floworks exhibit , all in all a great family attraction.
There’s a world of wonder for visitors of all ages at Houston’s Museum of Natural Science, one of the most popular museums in the whole of the United States – with an IMAX theatre, Planetarium, Butterfly Centre and a fascinating variety of exhibits that examine space science, astronomy, Native American culture, Texas wildlife, palaeontology, gems and minerals and much more, it’s a place of exciting discovery for all the family.
It’s well worth making the short drive to Kemah Boardwalk, a fun filled 35 acre coastal getaway overlooking Galveston Bay featuring themed restaurants, retail outlets and amusements for all the family.
Hermann Park is perfect for some outdoor family fun, take the train along Herman Park Railroad, go pedal boating on McGovern Lake, enjoy a peaceful picnic inside the Centennial Gardens. And in the evening visit the park’s outdoor theatre where you’ll be able to take in the free music, and family friendly performances of hit shows and acrobatic displays.
San Antonio
Welcome to the Crockett Hotel San Antonio. Opened in 1909 and named after Davy Crockett America’s famous frontiersmen this boutique style hotel combines modern day accommodations and amenities with historic charm and hospitality. Ideally located in the heart of downtown San Antonio, the Hotel is just a few steps away from the site of the iconic Alamo Fort and within easy access of San Antonio’s most famous attractions.
The Alamo Fort is the most popular historic landmark in Texas and it’s just a short walk from the hotel. Experience the battlefield first hand and walk in the footsteps of Bowie, Crockett, Travis and Esparza – with guided tours, daily events and living history demonstrations it’s a fascinating experience for all the family.
The famous San Antonio Riverwalk is just across the street from the hotel, featuring an array of shops, restaurants and entertainment – from lively street shows to waterparks and museums it’s a must see destination. Enjoy a casual lunch, take a boat ride along the Riverwalk, see a show at an open air theatre, relive the Alamo Story in 3D at the Texas Experience and end the day with a cold beer at one of the area’s oldest bars – there’s something for everyone on the Riverwalk.
Step back in time to the era of the Spanish conquistadors and discover how the Spanish developed the mission system in the San Antonio area at the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park . Spread out over the four locations of Missions, San Jose, Conception, San Juan and Espada this Unesco World Heritage Site provides a fascinating insight into this unique period of Texas history. Make a day of it and experience all four Missions by walking, hiking or biking between them, the recently completed paved pathways provides a safe and convenient way of exploring these landmark historical sites.
Getting around San Antonio is easy and one of the best ways to explore the city is on the hop on hop off bus tour. With stops at Alamo Square, historical and art museums, breweries, BBQ restaurants, The Spanish Governor’s Palace, Mexican Market, Tower of the Americas and the Riverwalk it’s a great way to explore the major attractions of San Antonio without getting lost. There’s so much to see and do on this tour that you might want to take up the option of a 48 hour ticket!
Fredericksburg
The magnificent Texas Hill Country is home to over 50 wineries and vineyards and our next stop at the warm and welcoming Hampton Inn & Suites in Fredericksburg places you right at the heart of Texas Wine Country. The charming small town of Fredericksburg is the perfect base for this part of your Texas adventures with lots of wineries and tasting rooms close to town along the Wine Road – a 30 mile stretch of scenic highway on the way to Johnson City. Relax and discover some of the best wines in Texas with a full or half day wine tour in Fredericksburg!
The hotel is close to both the National Museum of the Pacific War and the Pioneer Museum and is its facilities include a fitness room and an outdoor pool with a water slide – a great spot to kick back and cool down at the end of the day! Other popular attractions include Fort Martin Scott, Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site and the shops, galleries and restaurants dotted along Main Street. If time permits take the short drive to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, home to a dramatic pink granite monolith and scenic hiking trails.
A wonderful hotel with modern amenities and a firm focus on outstanding customer service, the Omni South Park is a great choice and an excellent base to explore everything that the thrilling and historical city of Austin has to offer.
Austin
Often referred to as the live music capital of the world Austin is home to over 250 live music venues, and with tons of outdoor festivals and live performances across the city you’re sure to find something to enjoy – from classic country to rootsy American blues and dance happy honky tonk shows – Austin has it covered. Make sure you visit South Congress Avenue known as the “SoCo District”, popular with locals and tourists alike it’s packed with quirky boutiques, lively bars and restaurants, galleries and of course live music venues.
There’s so much to see and do in Austin that your biggest problem might well be deciding what to leave out, spend some time at the State Capitol Building, the second largest in the country, discover the full story of Texas at the Bullock Texas State History Museum take a fascinating look into the life and work of Lyndon B Johnson, America’s 36th President including a replica of the iconic Oval Office at the LBJ Presidential Library.
Outdoor activities are plentiful in and around Austin where Lady Bird Lake and Ziker Park are both popular downtown destinations. With kayaking, paddle boarding, jogging and cycling trails and a host of other recreational activities to hand there’s fun for all the family here. And finally don’t leave town without taking a dip in one of Austin’s crown jewels Barton Springs Pool, a stunning 1000 foot spring fed limestone pool – it’s the number one swimming spot in Austin!
Leisure time back at the hotel is easily filled, grab your favourite book or magazine and head to the heated indoor/outdoor pool, dry sauna and whirlpool area for some serious poolside relaxation. Call one of our travelplanners 020 3542 8888 to book this multi-centre holiday today.