Moving to Plano in the near future and having the kids (19,21, and 23) visit for the first time over July 4th. Thinking of going to Austin or San Antonio for the weekend. Comments or helpful suggestions anyone? Will San Antonio (Riverwalk, Alamo etc) be really busy at this time? Thanks

I would recommend Austin, but I'm partial since I live here. San Antonio would also be nice, so you probably can't go wrong with either. Not sure what your kids are into, but they're old enough that they might enjoy the 6th street or 4th street areas. The bats at the Congress bridge are also a site to see. Barton Springs, Lake Austin, or Lake Travis are also good activities on the 4th of July, though they will be crowded. Good luck!

Have you considered New Braunfels? You can float the river or go to Schlitterbaun. There are some great places to eat, including the Grist Mill. Gruene Hall is a fun place to grab a beer. It's billed as the "Oldest Dancehall in Texas". It's packed, but still alot of fun!!

Austin is a much more funky boheminan city. SA is very touristy, Austin has far better nightlife and food.

July 4th will be HOT no matter where you go. Honestly, I much prefer San Antonio in the spring or fall when the heat is not so bad, as it is a great city for walking and being outdoors.

Yeah, given the age of the kids I'd go for Austin over San Antonio, although both are great. Such a variety of music options and general cool funk.

But, if you stay in Plano you can always hit Willie Nelson's famous 4th of July picnic right there in Fort Worth! Web site: http://www.williespicnic.com/

Everyone's right, though, it'll be hot. Go for a chilly dip in Barton Springs if you go to Austin.

Thanks, Sheila
Family Travel blog at http://blogs.bootsnall.com/Seafarer

I second New Braunfels if you go towards Austin or San Antonio. The kids would love it!

Thanks everyone--I think we'll go for Austin and New Braunfels. Water sports and night life should tip the scales to moving with us!

http://www.planoballoonfest.org/

For future reference -
Enjoy this in September in Plano. It is one of the best balloon events in the state.