By Amanda LaMora
Chances are, if you haven’t been to Broken Bow or Hochatown, you at least know someone who has. You may have even covetously perused your friend’s highlight reel on social media as they documented a journey of outdoor adventures, culinary exploration and relaxation in the beauty of Mother Nature.
So, is it worth all the hype?
Short answer: yes!
Long answer: yes, and here’s why.
Hochatown isn’t just for couples looking to cozy up in a romantic cabin getaway. It’s also an amazing place for families to reconnect, and with the kids still out of school, there’s no better time to explore this exciting destination than summer. Conveniently located about three hours north of the DFW metroplex, a trip to Broken Bow is the perfect weekend getaway if your family is suffering from a little summertime cabin fever.
Ready to create your own family highlight reel? Spruce up your itinerary with our top stops in the area:
1. The Maze of Hochatown
Navigate your way through over 29,000 square feet of twists and turns under a newly installed canopy to shade families from the sun. Keep your eyes peeled for even more fun at the maze – a mini golf course is currently in the works and due to open soon!
2. Hochatown Escape Games
Collaboration. Communication. Creativity. An escape room is an exciting way to foster all these attributes in your family circle, offering a fun opportunity to rely on each other’s strengths as you race against the clock to solve the mystery of your escape.
3. Hochatown Rescue Center & Petting Zoo
Get up close and personal with the cutest creatures of the animal kingdom. This petting zoo is sure to be a family favorite, featuring everything from reptiles, birds and farm animals to more exotic inhabitants, including a kangaroo and a camel.
4. Hochatown Amusements
Satisfy your need for speed with a thrilling race around the go-kart track, putt your way through an 18-hole mini-golf course, or fuel up for more fun with hand-dipped corn dogs, funnel cakes and more!
5. Beavers Bend River Floats
Featuring tandem and single kayaks and canoes, Beavers Bend River Floats offers the perfect way for anyone to experience the beauty of Mountain Fork River. After being shuttled to the drop-off point, it’s a peaceful 2.5-mile trip downstream back to their shop and only takes about an hour.
6. Abendigo’s Grill & Patio
Coffee shop by day, entertainment venue by night, plus all the meals and drinks in between. This one-stop-shop for dining, entertainment and souvenirs is a must-see when you visit Hochatown.
7. Rugaru Adventures
Have a family of daredevils? Rugaru Adventures is your go-to for outdoor excitement, featuring thrilling ziplines through the stunning scenery of Broken Bow Lake and SWINCAR off-road tours through the surrounding forest.
8. Beavers Bend Depot & Trail Rides
Take a ride through the mid-nineteenth century on a 1/3rd-size replica train from 1863 or hit the equestrian trails through the timeless forest surrounding Beavers Bend State Park. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for a sweet scoop of ice cream before you head back to reality.
9. Bandits ATV & Boat Rentals
If you want to experience Beavers Bend State Park to its fullest potential, you’ll need the proper gear. Bandits ATV & Boat Rentals holds the key to unlocking all the outdoor fun with UTV and pontoon rentals for whole family.
10. Beavers Bend Mining Company
From dinosaur fossils and gemstone digs to mini-golf and a pirate-themed play area, this hands-on approach to fun is a must for families of all ages.
11. Bigfoot Axe Throwing
The minimum age here is 10, so this one’s for your older crew. But this unconventional stop promises to be a blast for the whole family!