A Weather-Proof Weekend: Family Adventures at Gaylord Texan

Settle in & soak up the atmosphere: After checking in, start your getaway with a well-deserved drink. Stroll through the breathtaking atrium, taking in the lush greenery, twinkling lights and stunning architecture. Or bring your drink back to your atrium-view room, open the doors and unwind in your private, climate-controlled oasis.

Kick off the fun with a scavenger hunt: Before you get too comfortable, swing by the front desk to grab a scavenger hunt map. It’s the perfect way to explore the resort while keeping the kids entertained. Plus, it’s a great excuse to admire the atrium’s hidden details!

Explore & play: With a little time before dinner, wander through the resort’s small shops, including a toy store that little ones will love. If arcade games are more your speed, check out the small arcade for a quick round of fun before the evening begins.

Dinner at Zeppole (reservations required!): End the night with a delicious meal at Zeppole, the resort’s signature Italian restaurant. With an upscale but welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy house-made pasta and fresh seafood while the kids find something they’ll love, too.

Start with breakfast at Riverwalk Cantina: Kick off the day with a buffet breakfast at Riverwalk Cantina. Here, you can enjoy Tex-Mex flavors in a setting that feels like a charming outdoor café — without worrying about the weather.

Morning adventure, water fun for every season:

-If it’s summer, hop on the hotel shuttle to Paradise Springs, the resort’s private water park! Spend the morning floating the lazy river, splashing at the massive kids’ play area or relaxing poolside with full food & drink service. For the ultimate VIP experience, reserve seats or a cabana to guarantee your perfect spot.

-If it’s cold: Head to the indoor pool, where the kids can burn off energy while you soak and unwind. If you’re traveling with another adult, consider taking turns sneaking away to the spa (appointments required!) for a little well-earned pampering.

Afternoon recharge, rest or play:
After a busy morning, the afternoon is yours to unwind.

-Nap time? Let the kids rest up for the evening ahead.
-Feeling creative? Visit the Adventure Club for a fun craft session with the kids.
-Want a quiet break? Stop by the toy store, pick out an activity and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in your room with the atrium doors open.

Dinner at Old Hickory Steakhouse: Tonight, indulge in a classic steakhouse experience at Old Hickory. You can savor perfectly aged steaks, fresh seafood and an extensive wine selection — all in an elegant but welcoming atmosphere. It’s the ideal mix of upscale dining with family-friendly hospitality.

End the night with the Atrium Light Show: Before heading to bed, take one last stroll through the atrium. Catch the evening light show, where twinkling lights and music bring the space to life. It’s a magical way to wind down the day before retreating to your room for a restful night.

Slow morning with coffee & packing: Start your final day with a coffee run to the on-property Starbucks. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in your room while soaking in the last moments of your atrium-view escape. Take your time packing up before heading downstairs to drop your bags off at the front desk for safekeeping.

One last adventure, Meow Wolf Grapevine: Before hitting the road, walk just across the street to Meow Wolf. This is an immersive, interactive art experience that’s part funhouse, part story-driven adventure. Kids and adults alike will love exploring the mind-bending rooms, hidden passages and vibrant installations — a perfect way to end the trip on a high note!

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger: Before heading home, make a stop at In-N-Out Burger, a must-visit if you don’t have one back home! Grab a Double-Double, Animal-Style Fries and a milkshake for the road — a deliciously classic way to wrap up your getaway.

Head home, feeling refreshed: With bags in tow and memories made, it’s time to head home — until the next adventure!