Summer vacation in the U.S. can feel overwhelming for parents — especially when you’re juggling work, different age groups, and a limited budget. However, with the right planning, this season can become a time of growth, connection, and fun for the whole family.

As a Brazilian mom living in Texas for the second year, I’m still adjusting to this long stretch of school vacation. Meanwhile, with two sons — one is 7 and the other 16 — I’ve been navigating how to balance their different needs during the summer. Here’s how I’m planning our summer vacation, including local activities, a dream trip to Los Angeles, and creative, low-cost ways to make lasting memories.

Teenagers with a Packed Summer Vacation Schedule: Let It Work to Your Advantage

My oldest son, 16, will be attending summer school throughout June and training with his soccer team three mornings a week. While this means less flexibility for weekday adventures, it provides two big benefits:

• First, it gives him structure, which helps him stay physically active and mentally focused.
• Second, it creates small windows of time to dedicate fully to my youngest.

In addition, having a consistent schedule allows me to plan one-on-one outings with my 7-year-old, even if they’re short and simple.

The Little One: Making the Most of Summer Vacation with Learning and Play

My 7-year-old doesn’t have any summer camps this year, and he’s still adapting to the English language. Without nearby friends or a structured routine, we’ve built our own daily rhythm. For example:

• We practice English using Duolingo Kids and flashcards.
• We play pretend school, often switching roles.
• We watch shows like Wild Kratts and Ask the StoryBots to learn and laugh.
• We use playtime to explore math concepts with clocks, coins, and puzzles.

Meanwhile, even 20 to 30 minutes a day of dedicated time has made a big difference in his confidence and language skills.

July Family Trip: Universal Studios & Super Nintendo World

One of the highlights of our summer will be a week-long trip to Los Angeles in July. We’re planning to visit:

• Universal Studios Hollywood
• Super Nintendo World, where we can’t wait to try the Mario Kart ride and meet the characters

We’ve already:

• Booked our tickets in advance
• Packed refillable water bottles and snacks
• Downloaded the Universal app to manage wait times and show schedules

For example, we’re especially excited to see the view from the studio tour tram and take pictures in front of the famous Universal globe.

Adding Magic: Meow Wolf’s Immersive Worlds

We’re also considering a visit to Meow Wolf’s “The Real Unreal” in Grapevine, TX — a short drive for us. This interactive art installation is like stepping into a vivid dreamworld. It’s perfect for both kids and teens who love to explore, imagine, and ask questions like “What does it all mean?”

• Great for sparking creativity
• Interactive rooms that blend art, tech, and story
• One of the most Instagrammable family-friendly attractions in the U.S. right now

🎟️ Tickets range from $30–$45 per person, but they often have local discount days.

Bonus Day Out: Trinity Park in Fort Wort

Instead of indoor attractions, we also love spending time outdoors in Trinity Park, one of the best free spots for families in Fort Worth. For example:

• It has multiple playgrounds and large grassy areas for picnics.
• There are bike trails and plenty of shaded spots to rest.
• The nearby Forest Park Miniature Railroad adds extra charm to a sunny day.

In addition, the open space is perfect for kids to run freely, play games, and meet other children.

Family Fun at Home in Summer Vacation: Cool, Calm, and Creative

Not every day needs to be an outing. In fact, many of our favorite moments happen at home. For example:

• Backyard obstacle courses using cones, chairs, and chalk
• Water balloon fights or sponge toss games
• Homemade movie nights with popcorn, blankets, and tickets
• Simple science experiments using kitchen items
• Cooking together — our favorite is pizza or brigadeiro

Meanwhile, themed weeks (like “Space Week” or “Nature Explorers”) help bring structure without pressure.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not About Doing Everything

Summer vacation doesn’t have to be perfect or packed with big events to be meaningful. What kids remember most are moments of connection — the small things. For example, reading together in the morning, laughing during a cooking mess, or hearing “good job!” after a math game.

We’re thrilled about our Los Angeles trip, but the day-to-day joys — like my younger son speaking more English or my teen joking after soccer — are just as special.

In conclusion, with a bit of planning and a lot of heart, summer vacation becomes more than just time off school — it becomes time well spent.

✨ From big adventures to simple joys, your summer memories start with intentional choices and a little creativity.