Family Fun in Grapevine, Texas: The Perfect DFW Stopover

If you're planning a multi-destination trip to the USA with your family, we have the perfect first stop to begin your adventure.

Grapevine, Texas, might be the best-kept secret for Australian travellers entering the USA via Dallas Fort Worth International Airport!

Are you flying in on direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane? If you're travelling with the kids in tow, the last thing you want after a long-haul flight is to grapple with long queues or transit for another onward flight. Grapevine's convenience starts right when you land at DFW International Airport. With record-short customs wait times and a selection of 20 hotels, all within a 10-minute drive, your Texas-sized adventure begins almost the moment you step off the plane. What’s more, the city’s compact size makes exploring stress-free and an enjoyable way to start your holiday, especially when you're adjusting to a new time zone.

Convenience is a plus, but there are other drawcards. Grapevine offers a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that promise to kick off your multi-stop US holiday with unforgettable adventures. Find out why this authentic Texan town should be on every Aussie family's US travel itinerary.

Step Back in Time on Historic Main Street

Grapevine's Historic Main Street District is like walking into a storybook. This vibrant heart of the city offers an array of shops, restaurants, art studios and galleries, all exuding old-world charm. For families, the real gem is the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. Imagine the excitement in your kids' eyes as you board a 1920s-era train for an authentic ride through Texas! Keep an eye on the special events schedule, too. From a magical Day Out with Thomas to getting into the festive spirit of the North Pole Express at Christmas, Grapevine’s Vintage Railroad shines with family-friendly events on offer all year round. For the train enthusiasts in your crew, the Lone Star Hi-Railers Model Train exhibit is bound to be another highlight.

An authentic Texan experience aboard the Historic Grapevine Vintage Railroad

Modern Thrills for the Young (and Young at Heart)

Grapevine might be best known for its vintage charm; however, it caters to modern tastes and provides many entertainment options for the whole family. Discover an underwater world at SEA LIFE Aquarium or build your dream in real life at the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center. For something uniquely mesmerising, Meow Wolf Grapevine offers an immersive adventure sure to spark artistic creativity in visitors of all ages. And if you're looking to cool off on those warmer Texan days, Lake Grapevine's water activities offer a refreshing escape. Whether paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply enjoying the lakeside scenery, there's something for everyone.

Explore SEA LIFE Aquarium

Meow Wolf Permanent Art Installation
©Meow Wolf

Water Activities on Lake Grapevine

Top Tips for a Hassle-Free Visit

Getting Around
Grapevine's charm is best experienced at a leisurely pace. The city is walkable and easily accessible, so you can explore without spending too much time in transit. The Grapevine Visitors Shuttle connects popular attractions and hotels, so you only need to pick up a car rental when you depart for your onward destination.
Eat Like a Texan
Grapevine offers everything from upscale dining options to comforting homestyle cooked meals, but we recommend trying the authentic Texan fare to immerse yourself in the destination. Barbecue and Tex-Mex are a must! Weinberger's Deli is consistently named the #1 deli in Texas and well worth a visit.
Check Event Schedules
Grapevine is known for its vibrant calendar of events. Whether it's a wine festival, a Christmas celebration, or a unique railroad event, there's always something happening. Plan your visit around these events for an extra memorable experience.

Your Adventure Awaits

Grapevine's appeal lies in its ability to offer Texas-sized fun wrapped in a quaint, small-town package. Its compact size and wealth of attractions make it an ideal, stress-free first stop for Aussie families venturing into the US.

Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just in search of some good old-fashioned family fun, Grapevine, Texas, welcomes you with open arms.