4 Family Friendly Destinations Near Dallas and Fort Worth

Many families in the Dallas Fort Worth area want a chance to unwind and spend some quality time together. Here are some areas, close to DFW, that have lots to offer.

1. Granbury, Texas and Glen Rose, Texas - Granbury is about forty miles southwest of Fort Worth and sixty miles from Dallas. This small town, full of history, is situated around Lake Granbury. It has quaint shops, casual dining, galleries and wineries and still looks much like it did in the nineteenth century. Just a small jaunt south on highway 144 (approx. fifteen miles) is Glen Rose, Texas and Dinosaur Valley State Park. This state park has 113 million year old dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River Bed. If you decide to stay in this area for a couple of days, lodging ranges from practical motels to bed and breakfasts and cabins. Stay in Granbury and take a picnic to Glen Rose for the day to explore the nature trails and all this historic area has to offer. Find out more at http://www.granburytx.com/ and http://www.glenrosetexas.net/

2. Denton, Texas - Known as a college town around the Dallas Fort Worth area, Denton is home to the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University. Its live music scene and festivals always draw a crowd. However, other lesser known attractions such as the many historic museums found throughout Denton also provide a learning environment for the entire family. The Hangar Ten Flying Museum showcases antique airplanes from bygone eras. Denton is located just forty miles north of Fort Worth and forty four miles from Dallas. DiscoverDenton.com (http://www.discoverdenton.com/) provides a calendar of all upcoming events.

3. Canton, Texas - About ninety-five miles east of Fort Worth, and sixty miles from Dallas, this little town becomes a small city once a month. Canton is known around the DFW area for Canton Trade Days, the world's largest outdoor market. Also known as, "First Monday", this flea market takes place Thursday through Sunday prior to the first Monday of every month. This event has gotten so large that not all areas are accessible in one day. If you want to see as much as possible, it's best to book overnight lodging. More information is available at http://www.cantontradedays.com/

4. Grapevine, Texas - Northwest of DFW airport, the town of Grapevine lies almost directly in the middle of Dallas and Fort Worth. It's about twenty five miles from each city, but has managed to retain its historic, small town appeal. Ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad then take a leisurely stroll down Main Street. Dine at a real French bakery (http://www.themainbakery.com/) and take home some fresh baked bread or pretty petit fours. Grapevine has many festivals and events throughout the year. Visit the Grapevine Convention and Visitor's Bureau website at https://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/.

A short drive from Dallas or Fort Worth to any one of these destinations is sure to provide a fun filled get away for every member of the family.