No. 2: San Antonio

The largest city in south Texas, San Antonio, rolls out the welcome mat for families at the San Antonio Children's Museum.

Focusing on children 10 and under, the museum has three floors of interactive children's activities and weekly science and arts programs. You'll want to plan at least half a day to get through all the exhibits -- children can pan for gold and semi-precious stones or learn about flying a large airplane.

The free Ford Children's Festival on the Riverwalk is April 21 with live entertainment, mascots, face-painting, a moon bounce and games. This is part of San Antonio's larger Fiesta celebration.

No one can visit San Antonio without a trip to the Alamo, where Jim Bowie and Davy Crockett bravely held off Santa Anna's Mexican army for many days. While the battle was ultimately lost, the Alamo symbolizes defiant struggle against impossible odds.

For more information about San Antonio, visit VisitSanAntonio.com.

No. 1: Nashville

No other city than Nashville can offer you both Elvis' gold Cadillac and a president's mansion.

The King's golden vehicle can be found at the city's Country Music Hall of Fame, where kids will love the old guitars, automobiles and colorful costumes that belonged to the greats.

Take in a live performance of the Grand Old Opry. On any given night you never know which country superstar will show up on stage. Will it be Randy Travis or Vince Gill?

Adjacent to the Opry is the Gaylord Opryland Hotel. Stay onsite or at least visit its maze of restaurants, shops, and activities. You can go for a Delta Riverboat ride inside the giant facility, and float through 4.5 acres of lush, green plants no matter the season.

President Andrew Jackson's mansion, the Hermitage, is a must-see for any history buff. The large farm offers mansion and other tours, and shows what life was like for both Tennessee aristocracy and the 150 slaves who lived on the plantation.

For more information on Nashville's attractions, visit VisitMusicCity.com.