short road trips from austin

17 Fun Weekend Getaways from Austin (Road Trip Ideas!)

As absolutely fantastic of a city as Austin is, everyone needs a change of scenery once in a while! These weekend getaways from Austin, including everything from national parks to beach towns, are the perfect way to enjoy a change of pace.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a quick family trip, a vacation with friends, or even a solo adventure, one of these road trips from Austin is no doubt right for you.

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How We Structured Austin Weekend Getaways Guide

We intentionally structured this guide to the best weekend getaways from Austin to cover destinations between roughly 3 and 8 hours from the city (with a couple of small exceptions).

While there are dozens of destinations closer to Austin that could certainly justify a fantastic weekend escape, including Fredericksburg, Wimberley, Waco, and San Antonio, we have already covered those in our Austin day trips guide , so chose not to include them here.

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Austin

Garner state park.

Encompassing more than 1700 acres of beautiful Texas Hill Country, nearly 3 miles of the stunning Frio River, and roughly 16 miles worth of trails, Garner State Park is absolutely one of the best weekend getaways from Austin!

Whether you’d like to hike, camp, float the river, or simply enjoy a picnic and a swim, Garner State Park’s unforgettable beauty will be on full display.

Driving Distance From Austin

Big Bend National Park (+ Beyond)

Home to some of the most stunning views in Texas, Big Bend National Park is a fantastic place to hike and explore–don’t miss the incredible Santa Elena Canyon or the Lost Mine Trail while you’re there!

In addition to the national park, the immediate area surrounding the park has plenty more to see, including Big Bend Ranch State Park and the ghost town of Terlingua. 

If you’d like to go a bit out of your way, this road trip from Austin can also hit up the ultimate Instagram darling of West Texas–the small town of Marfa.

7 hours, 30 minutes.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Located just half an hour from Amarillo , not far from Route 66, sits the second-biggest canyon in the USA and one of the best weekend trips from Austin: Palo Duro Canyon!

There are plenty of hikes and overlooks to choose from, but be sure to prioritize hiking to the lighthouse formation! The trail is scorching and can be a bit grueling, especially during the final ascent, but the payoff is absolutely worth it.

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Set just south of the New Mexico border in West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the four highest peaks in Texas and some incredible hiking trails.

Depending on how long you plan on exploring, you could extend your Austin road trip into New Mexico, as well: just over the border sits Carlsbad Caverns National Park, which features more than 100 caves and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Caverns of Sonora

The founder of the National Speleological Association, Bill Stephenson, once said this about the Caverns of Sonora: “This is the most indescribably beautiful cave in the world, its beauty cannot be exaggerated, not even by a Texan.”

With a sales pitch like that, it’s not hard to see why the Caverns of Sonora are among the most famous caverns in Texas!

Even though they don’t take long to tour, they’re a bit far from the capital for a practical day trip–but they are among the best overnight trips from Austin!

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Caddo Lake State Park

While Texas may be classically characterized as a place of desert landscapes and cowboys, at Caddo Lake State Park, you’ll find a very different side of the Lone Star State–one dotted with giant cypress trees that drip Spanish moss and leisurely canoe rides.

This isn’t a lake for swimming–the alligators who live in the lake are best avoided–but it is utterly beautiful, and a fantastic road trip from Austin for those looking to leave city vibes behind entirely.

5 hours, 15 minutes.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

Lost Maples State Park makes for a beautiful weekend getaway from Austin year-round, but never more so than during the fall, when the park becomes one of the best places to enjoy fall foliage in Texas!

The foliage is typically best from late October through mid-November and lasts 3-4 weeks, but the season does vary by year, so if you have your heart set on catching the foliage at its best, be sure to check its status before heading out.

2 hours, 45 minutes.

Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Austin

As the largest city in Texas, the fourth-largest city in the USA, and one of the most diverse cities in the country, it’s safe to say that Houston is packed with enough fun things to do to fill more than one weekend trip from Austin!

Be sure to check out the Space Center Houston and NASA–the most famous of all the attractions in Houston–as well as sample some of Houston’s other top museums and parks.

Head to Kemah Boardwalk for a charming slice of Americana, and be sure to enjoy the food scene: Houston’s diversity is perhaps best displayed through its enormous collection of fantastic restaurants featuring cuisines from across the world.

New Orleans

Featuring some of the best food, music, and culture in the USA, having a city as incredible as NOLA reachable as a road trip from Austin is definitely something to take advantage of!

While you’re there, be sure to enjoy Bourbon Street, but get off of it, as well: New Orleans is more than just its incredible partying (though the partying does indeed live up to the legends).

During your weekend in NOLA , consider visiting the Garden District, taking a ghost tour, visiting the nearby bayou, taking a steamboat cruise, and of course, eating plenty of excellent food, from po’ boys to beignets, during the course of your weekend getaway.

Known for big hair, big (oil) money, and big buildings, Dallas is a quintessentially Texan city–and also one of the fastest-growing cities in the USA, with an excellent food scene and plethora of things to do.

Of course, no weekend trip to Dallas would be complete without a somber exploration of the assassination of President Kennedy, whose murder in Dallas in 1963 is one of the most haunting in the USA’s collective memory.

On a lighter note, though, Dallas offers far more than morbid history: with phenomenal shopping, excellent skyline views at Reunion Tower, walkable neighborhoods like the Bishop Arts District, and great gardens and museums (the Dallas Arboretum is stunning), you’ll find plenty of fun things to do during a weekend in Dallas.

Best Beach Road Trips from Austin

South padre island.

The only tropical island in Texas is, hands down, one of the best road trips from Austin. 

Here, you’ll find 34 miles of sandy beaches with calm, beautiful water, dolphins to watch, recovering sea turtles to visit, the opportunity to take a horseback ride on the beach, and some stupendous sunrises.

South Padre Island is one of the most popular beaches in Texas for good reason, and though it is known for its raucous Spring Break parties during March, outside of those weeks, the island is a far more laid-back escape.

5 hours, 30 minutes.

One of the most popular weekend getaways from Austin, but even more so from Houston, Galveston is home to some of Texas’ best-known beaches!

With miles of coastline, a small, picturesque theme park on the Galveston Island Pier, the East End Historic District that features beautiful Victorian-era homes, and tons of family-friendly attractions and parks, Galveston is a favorite for families looking for a quick beach trip in Texas.

Corpus Christi

As one of the closest beaches to Austin, Corpus Christi is popular with visitors looking to enjoy the beach for a bit while still retaining access to some small tastes of city life, like the beautiful Art Museum of South Texas and the interesting USS Lexington, a WWII-era aircraft carrier turned museum.

Mustang Island

Just a bit further from Austin than Corpus Christi–really, so close that you can conceivably visit both places in one trip if you’d like to–sits Mustang Island, a barrier island that is a popular Austin road trip for those looking for beach towns a bit quieter than Corpus Christi.

Port Aransas, the largest town on the island, has a population of merely 4,000, making Mustang Island a laid-back retreat for those looking to fish, go boating, or simply take a swim.

Best Small Town Weekend Trips from Austin

Of all of the weekend getaways from Austin outlined here, this one is the closest to the city–but the best thing to do in Bandera definitely justifies more than a day trip!

As the self-proclaimed Cowboy Capital of the World, Bandera is known for its horseback riding, outdoor activities, and dude ranches!

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at staying on a dude ranch, a weekend in Bandera may be the perfect road trip for you.

As the home of the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail, Ennis (located about 45 minutes from Dallas) is the ultimate road trip from Austin when the flowers are blooming each spring.

Even outside of bluebonnet season, though, Ennis still has plenty of charms that make it worth visiting, including Bardwell Lake, a drive-in movie theater, and historic downtown.

Drive into Dublin, and you’ll be greeted with a gigantic sign in the shape of a 4-leaf clover that reads “Welcome to Dublin, Texas”, making it immediately obvious that Dublin considers it the Irish capital of Texas!

Home of Dublin Bottling Works, which bottled the original Dr. Pepper, Dublin features a Dr. Pepper museum, a bottling tour, beautiful shops and restaurants, and a historic downtown.

Without a doubt, Dublin is one of the best weekend getaways from Austin!

Map of the Best Weekend Getaways from Austin

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20 Best Road Trips From Austin, Texas

If you live in Austin or just visiting the Texas capital and want to explore beyond the city borders, there are amazing road trip destinations in virtually every direction.

Living right in the buzzing heart of Texas, there's a huge amount to see whichever direction you choose to drive from Austin with arid deserts, snow-capped mountains and lush forests all within reach as well as amazing cities and towns you can visit.

From small charming Texan towns to unique National Parks and amazing city breaks, here is a list of some of the best road trips you can go on from Austin ordered by time it'll take you to get there:

Best road trips from Austin, Texas

• See our favorite day trips from Austin
• Check out the best weekend trips from Austin
• Choose from our top long weekend trips from Austin
• Explore our selection of longer trips from Austin

Day trips from Austin, TX (under 3 hours each way)

1. Wimberley

45 minutes from Austin (40 miles)

Why you should visit : Browse the arts and crafts scene in this quirky and eclectic small town.

The charming small town of Wimberley is just outside Austin, less than an hour's drive southwest.

Wimberley boasts a relaxed atmosphere and a slightly retro vibe full of artisan shops and quirky places to stop for lunch. You're guaranteed to feel a long way away from the hustle and bustle of the Texas capital city.

Known for its arts and crafts scene, you can stroll along the streets of Wimberley and take in the small local shops selling everything from unusual jewelry to paintings.

But that's not all there is to see and do here.

Just outside the town and on the way to San Marcos you can find the Wimberley Glassworks where you can check out live demos of vases and art being made from liquid glass and buy some quirky pieces to take home with you.

You can grab lunch in one of the authentic small diners in town - we're talking real mom and pop mac n cheese type establishments - a definite winner for making you feel relaxed and at home.

Sitting right on the edge of Texas Hill Country (see #7 below), you could combine a stop in Wimberley with exploring more of this area known for its unique combination of wine and cowboys.

2. San Antonio

1 hour 15 minutes from Austin (80 miles)

Why you should visit: Walk the famous San Antonio River Walk and take in the laid-back, culture-rich vibe of this Texan gem.

San Antonio is the closest big city to Austin and it'll take you a little over an hour to get down the I-35 to get there. With a few other towns in-between, you might not realize exactly when you've left Austin and entered San Antonio so if you're looking for a city break that won't a long drive, San Antonio is where you should head to.

If you're setting off late in the morning, you can make a quick detour to Salt Lick BBQ for lunch. It's cash only and BYOB, but the huge grill and smokers here make some of the best barbecue in the country - well worth a stop!

San Antonio is known for a great mix of history and culture, and food. On the history front, the main sight is the Alamo - the fortified mission that dates back to the 18th century was the scene of one of the most famous battles in American history during the Texas Revolution.

There are four other missions around San Antonio, connected by the Mission Trail and together with the Alamo all part of the San Antonio Missions UNESCO World Heritage Site.

All of these and the San Fernando Cathedral date back to the first half of the 18th century so you can easily spend at least a whole day diving deep into local culture.

The rest of the city is great for walking and exploring. The Pearl district is home to beautiful restored buildings housing charming local shops and you can find the largest Mexican market in the United States on Market Square.

In the evening you're spoiled for choice as you can take a stroll along the River Walk and take your pick of amazing restaurants with tables set along the water.

3. Brenham, TX

1 hour 30 minutes from Austin (90 miles)

Why you should visit: Home to Blue Bell Creameries ice cream, Brenham is famed for this historic brand - as well as Texas Arts & Music Festival.

It's hard to find people who have not heard of Blue Bell Creameries ice cream - the brand has been about for over 100 years and is the second largest seller of ice cream in the United States.

Although it is a national company with offices all over the country, the HQ remains where it all began - in the small town of Brenham, Texas.

It'll take about 90 minutes to drive to Brenham from Austin along US-290 heading east. Blue Bell Creameries is on the far side of town and a great place to either start the day (if you fancy some ice cream first thing in the morning) or later on in the afternoon.

Blue Bell makes all sorts of milk-based products and among them are 66 different flavors of ice cream. Depending on when you visit, you'll get to try some seasonal varieties that are not available all year round.

Other than Blue Bell, there's enough to fill a whole day or more in Brenham. Start with the Brenham Art Walk - the town hosts the annual Texas Arts & Music Festival and there are about 20 different works of art dotted around town as well as several galleries you can pop into.

Have lunch in one of the many restaurants and cafes downtown, stop by the Washington County Fairgrounds and drive the Washington County surrounding Brenham to explore one of the most archetypal parts of Texas.

About 20 minutes out of Brenham is the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site. Known as the Birthplace of Texas, there's a visitor center and museum dedicated to the history of the independent Republic of Texas that existed from 1836 to 1846, a living history farm and a historic Pecan tree which has been here for over 200 years.

4. Waco, TX

1 hour 35 minutes from Austin (100 miles)

Why you should visit: There are two great reasons to go on a road trip to Waco: antiques and Dr Pepper. That does sound like a particularly random combination but if either sounds interesting, Waco is only just over 100 miles north of Austin along the I-35.

You can either make a short trip up to Waco or make it a stop on the way further north to Dallas and Fort Worth.

Although antique stores have been around in Waco for some time, the rise to fame of the local couple Chip and Joanna Gaines through their hit TV show Fixer Upper meant that the town became something of a pilgrimage point for design and interiors enthusiasts.

While spotting Chip and Joanna is by no means guaranteed, there's still plenty to enjoy at the Silos. You can see the interesting range of items at Magnolia market, sample some incredible fresh pastries at The Silos Baking Co., and stop by at a whole host of other boutiques in the Magnolia complex.

For those who like soft drinks, Waco is a must visit cult city - this is where Dr Pepper was born. The headquarters for Dr Pepper are still in Waco, but you can visit the building that used to be where the entire production operated from 1906 to 1960.

There are 3 large floors full of exhibits including classic marketing posters, unique bottle and can designs and a huge amount more - well worth the visit even if Dr Pepper is a little sweet for your liking.

5. College Station, TX

1 hour 45 minutes from Austin (100 miles)

Why you should visit: College Station is a young and vibrant college town, less than a 2-hour drive east from Austin.

The city is home to the well known Texas A&M University and over 1 in 2 residents are students or staff at the university which gives the town its unique vibe.

There are a number of parks you can walk around in and around the university and other sights include the Museum of the American GI dedicated to the lives of service men and women in the military, local wineries and breweries.

The most well-known place to visit in College Station is the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. As is customary for ex-Presidents, George H.W. Bush set up the historical museum dedicated to his tenure as the 41st President of the United States.

The museum goes a lot further, however, and includes exhibits going back to World War II, the Cold War and the fall of Communism across Europe with a piece of the Berlin Wall.

You can take a picture inside the surprisingly realistic replica Oval Office or the Situation Room on your way around.

6. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, TX

1 hour 50 minutes from Austin (100 miles)

Why you should visit: Although we do have a whole road trip idea dedicated to the Hill Country including Fredericksburg a little further south than Enchanted Rock (see #7 below), this rock deserves its own entry on our list if you're looking for a shorter day-long road trip with the opportunity see some great Texas scenery.

Enchanted Rock is a small park about 2 hours west of Austin. Whether you take the Texas State Route 71 or U.S. Route 290, the journey will take you about the same amount of time at close to 2 hours. You might as well go and come back along different roads to see more on your way.

When you get to Enchanted Rock, you can walk around the various trails, have a picnic and relax in nature, but the main reason for coming to is to climb up the rock itself.

It's not as daunting as it sounds - the rock is not all that high and the trails leading up and down are well maintained and relatively easy to follow.

Once you do get to the top, you'll get a great view all around the pink dome from a height of 325 feet. If you're coming over spring break or generally any time from spring to fall, especially at weekends, it's a good idea to book before you come.

That way you can make sure you will be able to get in and go up the rock even during busy times and avoid being disappointed after 2 hours on the road.

7. Texas Hill Country and Wine Country

2 hours 30 minutes from Austin (130 miles)

Why you should visit: Starting right outside Austin and stretching to the city of Junction, the Texas Hill Country is known for 2 things that make it an amazing place to visit: wine and cowboys.

You might not have realized that Texas is a wine hot spot or that the wine grown here is surprisingly good, but that's exactly why this hidden secret is worth uncovering.

Texas Hill Country is right on the doorstep if you're starting your road trip from Austin and this is one of the best drives you can go on from the Texas capital.

The climate and soil in this part of Texas is similar to parts of the Mediterranean such as Sicily or Lebanon. The dusty rocky hillsides and scorching summer temperatures make intensely rich wines and there are over 50 wineries in the area!

The town of Fredericksburg is right in the heart of the Wine Country and is well worth stopping either as a base for exploring the surroundings or a day or two seeing the city itself.

Bandera is a small town in the hills outside San Antonio and is the self-proclaimed Cowboy Capital of the World. I'm sure some other U.S. cities might want to dispute the title, but you'll certainly get your dose of cowboy experience.

We were spotted at the rodeo just outside town by the crowd entertainers for clearly being out of town despite our best efforts to disguise ourselves with locally bought cowboy hats. It's a seriously worthwhile place to explore to understand more about Texas culture.

Don't miss the small town of Luckenbach as you make your way around - time seems to have missed this town as it has been passing and you can enjoy real local food with real local music in an amazing setting.

8. Houston, TX

2 hours 30 minutes from Austin (165 miles)

Why you should visit: Houston is the biggest city in Texas by population and has a huge amount going on which is why a weekend road trip from Austin is perfect or you can use it as a strop over on your way to Galveston (see #10 below) or New Orleans (#19).

The city is famous for its role in the NASA Space Program and the Space Center just outside the city is the most visited attraction - you should definitely have it on your itinerary.

Back in the city itself, many of the best attractions and museums are in the Houston Museum District so you can easily move between them on your way around. Check the opening hours for each one you want to visit as many offer free admission time slots in the middle of the week.

If you are staying for a few days, the Houston CityPASS is well worth it to get you access to some of the best sites. As well as the Space Center, Downtown Aquarium, and Houston Museum of Natural Science are all included.

Then you have a choice to make - if you have kids you may go for the Children's Museum of Houston and the Houston Zoo but if not, you can visit the Museum of Fine Arts and get an All-Day Ride Pass for the Kemah Boardwalk.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Austin to Houston

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Weekend trips from Austin, TX (3-5 hours each way)

9. Dallas and Fort Worth, TX

3 hours from Austin (195 miles)

Why you should visit: Dallas is a city that needs little introduction - there's a huge amount of things to do and see and a big dose of American history to take in.

Getting to Dallas and Fort Worth from Austin is very easy, even if it will take you a solid 3 hours on the road before accounting for any stops on the way.

The I-35 will take you the entire way and depending on which one you choose to start with, the I-35W and I-35E split at Hillsboro will take you into Fort Worth or Dallas respectively.

We have a huge list of things to do and see in Dallas , but even if you don't want to spend all of your time in museums, you've got the McKinney Avenue Trolley, music venues and restaurants of Deep Ellum and the vibrant Bishop Arts District to explore.

Fort Worth is just up the road from Dallas, and you might want to add the small town of Grapevine in-between to your itinerary. Grapevine is on the edge of the metro area, but has a real small town feel about it and a few great wineries nearby.

The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is all Texas - you've got the classic 19th century architecture and traditional Texan stores that are a good contrast to the hustle and bustle of Dallas.

10. Galveston, TX

3 hours 30 minutes from Austin (215 miles)

Why you should visit: Galveston Island is a popular Gulf Coast destination for those who live in and around Houston and is a great option if you're coming from Austin too.

There's other seaside destinations to consider - Mustang Island (see #11 below) is about as far and South Padre Island (#14) is amazing, although a much longer drive.

The fastest way to get to Galveston from Austin is to go right through Houston - follow the I-10 until you're in downtown Houston and then follow the I-45 (Gulf Freeway) south onto Galveston Island.

Once there, park up and enjoy the perfect beach holiday. We're talking long and wide sand beaches where you can spend hours watching the waves roll in and a classic pier with fairground rides and food stalls.

There's two theme parks - the Moody Gardens Theme Park that includes an aquarium and the Schlitterbahn Waterpark right next to it - a great way to relax on hot summer days.

Make sure you stop at the Kemah Boardwalk about halfway from Houston to Galveston. This is another amusement park, but it's a real classic and if you add Houston to your road trip itinerary (see #8 above), the Houston CityPASS includes admission to the Kemah Boardwalk.

11. Mustang Island State Park, TX

3 hours 30 minutes from Austin (240 miles)

Why you should visit: If Galveston is a little too touristy with its ride-filled pier, cafes and places to eat and two amusement parks, Mustang Island is a seaside location that could not be more different.

Mustang Island is one of the long stretch of barrier islands off the Texas coast in the Gulf of Mexico. The fastest way to get here is to drive from Austin to Corpus Christi by taking the I-35 to San Antonio and the I-37 from there to the coast.

From Corpus Christi follow the signs towards the sea and you'll get to Mustang Island a few minutes later.

Unlike most of the other barrier islands, you can drive all the way along Mustang Island and even come off at the other side. You'll need to catch a short ferry at Port Aransas if you want to do that.

The 18-mile long island has a State Park and for a nominal $5 entrance fee you get access to miles upon miles of pristine sand beaches with large empty stretches of coastline you can have all to yourself.

There's about 100 campsites throughout - some have electricity and water, others let you get a little more intimate with nature.

If you're spending a few days here, you can try parts of the 20-mile paddling trail around the island - it's a great way to unwind and feel a million miles away from the city.

12. Davy Crockett and Angelina National Forests, TX

4 hours from Austin (240 miles)

Why you should visit: Although the hills around Austin are fairly green compared to much of Texas, some can find it surprising that large areas in the east of the state are covered by lush pine forests. Davy Crockett and Angelina National Forests will be a fresh breah of air and a welcome break from the city life.

There are two National Forests that are particularly great for spending time in these forests - Davy Crockett National Forest about 200 miles west and the slightly smaller Angelina National Forest about 40 miles further on.

Both forests offer miles upon miles of conifers and outdoor activities in the woods - if you want to go on relaxing walks while smelling the pine cone and sap mix, a road trip to the two national forests will take less than 4 hours one way.

If you're just coming for a day or driving over for the weekend, you can head for the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area in the Davy Crockett National Forest - there's ample good parking and easy trails around the lake.

If you go further, Boykin Springs in the southern part of Angelina National Forest is another great option. You'll see the springs themselves cascading down into a rocky stream and the Sawmill Hiking Trail is the most popular route in the park with about 5 miles of a relatively straightforward hiking.

13. Marshall and Jefferson, TX

5 hours from Austin (350 miles)

Why you should visit: The towns of Marshall and Jefferson in the northeastern corner of Texas are 20 minutes away from each other and both amazing places to go in their own right so if you're coming all the way from Austin, it makes sense to combine them into one road trip.

In fact, you really should add Caddo Lake to your itinerary (see #15 below) seeing as that's another amazing local destination, but to give all 3 justice you really need a good amount of time so budget for at least 3 to 4 days excluding the driving to and from.

If you want to break up the journey and add stops en route, Waco (#4 above) is where you'll be coming off the I-35 onto State Highway 31. The town of Tyler narrowly missed this list with its amazing Rose Garden and the Dallas - Fort Worth metro area (#9) is not a big detour.

Marshall is first on your way and the locals have declared it the Cultural Capital of East Texas. You can check out the Harrison County Historical Museum that occupies the big County Court building right in the middle of downtown or visit the Texas and Pacific Railway Museum to find out about Marshall's history as a 19th century rail hub.

The light festival at Christmas is one of the biggest in the United States so if you're looking for a festive road trip from Austin, Marshall is a great place to come.

Jefferson is known as the Bed and Breakfast Capital of the U.S. so if you need an amazing place to stay, you should be spoiled for choice.

Time slows down as you enter the town and you should take time to stroll through the historic downtown or go on a boat ride down the Big Cypress Bayou.

Long weekend trips from Austin, TX (5-8 hours each way)

14. Port Isabel and South Padre Island, TX

5 hours 30 minutes from Austin (370 miles)

Why you should visit: At Port Isabel, you'll find the last of the barrier islands that run the entire length of the Texas coastline - South Padre Island . If you are a wildlife enthusiast and are looking for some awe-inspiring scenery, this road trip is perfect for you.

If Galveston (#10 above) is too touristy for your liking and Mustang Island is not remote enough, you can keep on driving down the coast to the southern tip of Texas.

A lot of this area is dedicated to the protection of wildlife - the Padre Island National Seashore, Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, Las Palomas Wildlife Management Area and the Boca Chica State Park surround Port Isabel.

Port Isabel is a pretty town and worth spending some time in. It can get busy during peak vacation seasons and during spring break, but at other times, you can spend time on the water and climb to the top of the Port Isabel lighthouse for great views in every direction.

On the island, you can get up close and personal with nature - especially as you drive north towards the South Padre Sand Dunes.

There's a Sea Turtle Center and you can find places where you can swim with the dolphins or just sit and watch the sun set along the long sandy beach.

READ MORE - Can You Drive to South Padre Island

15. Caddo Lake, TX

5 hours 40 minutes from Austin (380 miles)

Why you should visit: If you thought that the nearest gator-filled marshy swamps are somewhere in southern Louisiana, you might be surprised to discover that there's one you can get to in a day's drive right here in Texas at Caddo Lake.

Well... Caddo Lake sits right on the border between Texas and Louisiana near the towns of Marshall and Jefferson, which are coincidentally great places to stay while you're in the area (see #13 above).

Caddo Lake is a real Southern swamp and well worth the long drive to get here. The Big Cypress Bayou flows right past the Caddo Lake State Park and into the swamp, you've got a myriad of waterways and interconnected marshes and the tall bald cypress trees growing right out of the water.

You can even go on a steamboat that takes you shows you different parts of the lake and you can hop off at some of the small towns that you get to along the way.

Although you may not see them, there are alligators in the swamp so although canoes and paddle boards are on offer, I'm of the squeamish sort and prefer to have more than a couple of inches between me and the water!

16. Marfa, Alpine and Fort Davis, TX

6 hours 30 minutes from Austin (430 miles)

Why you should visit: Alpine, Marfa and Marathon are all fascinating towns with a lot of history, quirky shops and a real laid back feel that creates a unique relaxing vibe. The Prada store in the picture above literally sits on the roadside in the middle of the desert - that's what we mean when we say quirky!

As you drive west from Austin, the landscape becomes more barren, and the climate becomes more arid as you approach the Chihuahuan Desert. This desert covers a large part of western Texas, southern parts of New Mexico and Arizona and parts of Mexico across the border.

It's a fairly long road trip to get here from Austin - you'll need to follow US Highway 290 until it meets the I-10 and then follow the interstate for a little over 3 hours until you get past Fort Stockton.

From there, take U.S. 67 south and you'll get to Alpine an hour later.

There's a lot of nature all around - the Cathedral Mountain in the Glass Mountains is a few miles outside Alpine and there's lots of trails you can do on foot or in the car. Just remember that you're in a very remote desert - be prepared to dig out your car if you get stuck and don't expect any cell signal outside towns.

While in the area, make sure you visit the Fort Davis National Historic Site. This garrison was established in 1854 and continued to serve as an important outpost during the U.S. Civil War and through to the 1880s. Today you can see buildings restored to their 19th century look and learn the historic importance of the fort through exhibitions and demos in the summer.

Lastly, if you're coming this far from Austin and have time on your hands, you really should extend your road trip and keep on driving south the Big Bend National Park which is a phenomenal place to spend time in nature - check #18 below for more details.

17. Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle

7 hours 30 minutes from Austin (495 miles)

Why you should visit: Amarillo is the biggest city in the area and is well worth the long road trip from Austin. You'll find all kinds of unusual stores and some of the most random museums you will have ever visited.

The Texas Panhandle is the northern part of the state that sticks out from the rest of Texas between the states of Oklahoma and New Mexico.

The American Quarter Horse Museum is dedicated to the American horse breed that is known for its straight-line short distance sprint speed and the Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum has... a collection of old RVs. Yep. You were warned!

In the desert outside Amarillo, you'll find one of the best known tourist attractions of the Texas Panhandle - a number of classic Cadillacs half buried into the sand. You're actively encouraged to leave your own graffiti over the top of the decades of previous people spelling their names or proclaiming love for their favorite football team.

To explore some of the local nature, head to the Palo Duro Canyon State Park. This isn't quite the red rocks of Sedona, but there's some really interesting rock formations in the desert including the Lighthouse Rock and trails you can hike.

18. Big Bend National Park

7 hours 45 minutes from Austin (475 miles)

Why you should visit: Big Bend is one of the best places in the United States to explore wild nature - it's far enough from any major cities for it to never get particularly busy and the mix of mountains and forests makes for amazing hiking trails.

Big Bend National Park right on the border between Texas and Mexico is a long drive from Austin . It'll take all day if you're going there in one long drive but you can break up the journey and spend some time in the Texas Hill Country (see #7 above) and make a stop in the Chihuahuan desert towns of Marfa, Alpine and Marathon on your way down from the I-10.

In the summer it can get very hot so if you're coming from June to September, bring plenty of water. There are limited amenities in the National Park so you're best off bringing everything you need with you.

One great thing to do in the park is to explore the Rio Grande that flows through a canyon along the southern edge. Make sure you bring your passport with you - you may need it if you want to do water-based activities as the river is the actual border between the two countries and you may also get stopped by patrols as you're hiking around.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Austin to Big Bend National Park

Longer trips from Austin, TX (8+ hours each way)

19. Drive the Great River Road to New Orleans, LA

8 hours from Austin (510 miles)

Why you should visit: New Orleans is an amazing city to visit, and you might be surprised to find out that you can relatively easily get there in a day's worth of driving. Prepare to sample some delicious food, party like a local and learn some facinating history!

The road trip from Austin follows Texas State Route 71 to Columbus and from there the I-10 will take you all the way to Baton Rouge in Louisiana.

If you really want to get to New Orleans, you can follow the I-10 right into the city, but a much better idea is to turn off the interstate and to follow the southern portion of the Great River Road that runs right along the Mississippi.

This road goes past some of the best-known plantations that you can visit including the famous Houmas House Plantation, Nottoway Plantation and the smaller Oak Alley Plantation that is a popular photo spot looking down its tree-covered driveway.

Once you do get to New Orleans, park up the car in a secure car park - the city is best explored on foot. Music venues throughout the French Quarter are amazing and I'd recommend seeing more than just the Bourbon Street joints.

The food is also spectacular. The unique mix of Creole and Cajun cooking makes for outstanding dishes with the thick local gumbo (a unique kind of seafood-based soup) our personal favorite.

If you come to New Orleans for longer, there's a huge amount to do within a short drive of the city - check out our list of the 25 best day trips you can go on from New Orleans for inspiration!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Austin to New Orleans

20. Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Carlsbad Caverns, NM

Why you should visit: Carlsbad Caverns are one of the best cave systems in the country and you can roam through the lit-up rocks admiring the stalactites and stalagmites.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park nearby features some of the most gorgeous hikes that are perfect for a longer getaway from the city.

The furthest road trip from Austin on our list takes you west right across the state of Texas to the border with New Mexico.

You'll spend a few hours following the I-10 before turning onto Highway 285 headed north at Fort Stockton. The two parks are either side of the state line - Guadalupe Mountains National Park is in Texas and the Carlsbad Caverns are over in New Mexico.

You can stay somewhere between the two and easily get to both so you won't need to pack up and go in-between. Having said, that Guadalupe Mountains is best explored on foot and to make the most of the trails, you'll need to give yourself a few days to hike around the park with a tent.

Just make sure you avoid coming in the searing heat during the summer as the climate here can get very uncomfortable.

Remember to book before you travel to Carlsbad Caverns, make sure you can get in as you can get turned away during busier periods, which can be frustrating having made the long drive from Austin.

Don't miss the Sitting Bull Falls just outside Carlsbad in the Lincoln National Forest. The cool spring-fed waterfalls and pools are great for escaping the afternoon heat and you can spend some time in the water at the bottom of the waterfalls.

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21 Best Road Trips from Austin, Texas

Live in Austin or just visiting the Texas State Capital and want to get out of the city?

Luckily, there are countless amazing road trips you can explore all over Texas!

From small towns in the Texas Hill Country and stunning state parks to neighboring states like New Mexico and Arizona, we’ve got the ultimate list of best road trips from Austin, Texas.

Also Read: 32 Best day trips from Austin, Texas

Best Road Trips from Austin within Texas

Countless amazing road trips can be taken within a few hours of Austin, each with its unique attractions and experiences.

Here are our favorite road trips from Austin to nearby attractions.

Austin Fredericksburg Road Trip

Fredericksburg is a small town in the Hill Country of Texas with a rich German heritage.

Visitors can explore this history at the Pioneer Museum or take a tour of the Vereins Kirche, an 1880s-style German church.

Fredericksburg is also home to several museums, including the National Museum of the Pacific War, which tells the story of the Pacific campaigns of World War II. 

The town is located just a short drive from Austin, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway. 

A must-stop on this road trip is Enchanted Rock State Park. 

The massive pink granite dome rises 425 feet above the surrounding landscape and is one of the largest monoliths in the United States.

The highlight of the park is its summit, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Other great stops on this Austin Fredericksburg road trip include Luckenbach, Dripping Springs, and Blanco.

Also Read: 17 Best State Parks near Austin, Texas to Visit Now

Texas Hill Country Road Trip for bluebonnets

The Texas Hill Country is a scenic region of rolling hills and wildflowers.

It’s an ideal destination for a road trip, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking.

Start your trip in Austin and visit Muleshoe Bend and Turkey Bend Recreation areas to see the sprawling flower fields on the shores of Lake Travis.

The area is also home to several small towns such as Burnet – the bluebonnet capital of Texas, Marble Falls, and Llano.

In addition, the Hill Country is home to several vineyards and wineries, making it the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine after a day of admiring the bluebonnets.

San Antonio Road Trip

San Antonio is a beautiful city with a rich history.

The Alamo is one of the most popular destinations in the city.

This historic site is where the Battle of the Alamo took place.

Be sure to take a tour of the Spanish Colonial mission and learn about the history of this important landmark.

The city is also home to several excellent restaurants, hotels, and parks.

Next, take a stroll along the San Antonio River Walk.

This beautiful pedestrian walkway winds its way along the banks of the San Antonio River.

The river walk is lined with restaurants, shops, art galleries, and other cultural attractions. 

San Antonio also has many museums, including the Museum of Art and The Witte Museum.

The distance from Austin to San Antonio is just under 80 miles and the trip takes about 1 hr 30 mins.

Austin Houston Road Trip

Houston is one of our favorite weekend getaways from Austin.

The city has a lot to offer, from excellent restaurants and shopping to museums and cultural attractions.

Start your road trip to Houston by visiting the Museum District.

This area is home to several different museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Children’s Museum of Houston.

Next, head to the Space Center Houston.

This museum is operated by NASA and is a must-see for anyone interested in space exploration.

The center offers tours of the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, as well as exhibits on the history of the American space program.

Spend some time at the beach by visiting Galveston Island.

The island is home to several beaches, as well as the famous Moody Gardens.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Austin, Texas

Austin Waco Drive

One of our favorite road trips in Central Texas!

Waco is home to several family-friendly attractions.

The Waco Mammoth National Monument preserves the remains of ancient mammoths in the fossil bed.

Visitors can also tour the ranger-led exhibits and learn about the area’s natural history.

The famous Dr. Pepper Museum chronicles the history of this popular soft drink.

Then, take a walk through the Cameron Park Zoo to see the animals.

And no trip to Waco would be complete without a stop at Magnolia Market at the Silos, made famous by HGTV’s “Fixer Upper.”

With its quaint shops and boutiques, Magnolia Market is the perfect place to pick up home decor, clothes, souvenirs, and gifts.

Wimberley San Marcos Road Trip

Wimberley is our favorite small town in Texas!

This quaint town is situated on the banks of the Blanco River in the Hill Country.

Wimberley is home to several art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants.

The town is also a popular destination for swimming, tubing, and kayaking on the river.

Nearby, visitors can also explore the Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well.

Just a few miles from Wimberley is San Marcos, a lively university town.

The San Marcos River is known for its excellent swimming and tubing–and even kayaking!

Dallas Fort Worth Weekend Getaway from Austin

Looking for a fun weekend getaway from Austin?

Look no further than Dallas and Fort Worth!

Start your visit by exploring downtown Dallas.

Catch a ride on the elevator to the top of Reunion Tower for a stunning view of the city.

Be sure to check out the JFK Memorial and Dealey Plaza, as well as several museums including The Sixth Floor Museum, which explores the life and death of President John F. Kennedy.

Fort Worth is only about 45 minutes away but offers a very different experience.

Visit the Stockyards National Historic District to learn about Fort Worth’s cattle ranching heritage, then grab a bite at one of the many top-rated steakhouses in the area.

No trip to Fort Worth would be complete without witnessing a live Texas rodeo, so head to Cowtown Coliseum for steer wrestling and bull riding.

Read: Austin to Dallas Road trip Guide

Arlington Road Trip from Downtown Austin

Arlington is home to Six Flags, one of the best amusement parks in America!

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer something a little tamer, Six Flags has plenty of roller coasters and other rides to keep you entertained.

If you visit in the summer months, be sure to check out Hurricane Harbor, the water park next door.

Arlington is also home to Globe Life Park – the home of the Texas Rangers baseball team.

If you’re a sports fan, be sure to catch a game there during your trip!

No visit to Arlington is complete without spending some time in the entertainment district downtown.

Here you can find several bars and restaurants serving up local craft beers and delicious BBQ.

Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park is one of the best state parks in Texas.

The park is home to miles of soft sandy beaches, as well as several hiking trails and birding areas through the dunes.

Mustang Island is a popular destination for camping, fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

South Padre Island Road Trip

South Padre Island, located on the South Texas Gulf Coast, is the spring break capital of Texas.

With miles of white sand beaches, top-rated surfing conditions, and plenty of nightlife, it’s easy to see why.

South Padre Island is also home to some great family attractions like Sea Turtle Rescue Center and the South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center.

You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities on the island including fishing, windsurfing, and horseback riding.

No trip to South Padre Island would be complete without taking a dolphin watch tour or going parasailing.

Corpus Christi Road Trip

Corpus Christi is a beautiful coastal city located on the Gulf of Mexico.

Here you will find miles of Corpus Christi beaches , as well as several great attractions.

Some of our favorites include the Texas State Aquarium, the USS Lexington Museum, and the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center.

If you’re looking for a fun day trip, head over to Padre Island National Seashore or Port Aransas.

Caddo Lake Weekend Trip

Caddo Lake State Park is the perfect spot for a weekend trip in East Texas.

The park is home to Caddo Lake, the largest natural lake in the state.

This beautiful lake is known for its fishing and boating, as well as its abundance of wildlife.

The park itself is home to a variety of hiking trails and boardwalks, making it the perfect place to spot alligators, turtles, birds, and more!

No trip to Caddo Lake is complete without taking a scenic boat tour of the lake.

Tyler and East Texas

Tyler, located in East Texas, is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

The city is home to a variety of attractions including the Caldwell Zoo, Tyler Rose Garden, and the East Texas State Fair.

If you’re looking for a more outdoorsy weekend, head to one of the nearby state parks like Tyler State Park or Daingerfield State Park.

Other small towns in East Texas worth visiting include Jefferson, Marshall , and Nacogdoches.

All three offer a variety of historical attractions, as well as outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Plan the ultimate West Texas road trip to the Guadalupe Mountains!

The national park is home to the Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas.

The park also offers several great hiking trails, as well as the opportunity to go horseback riding, mountain biking, and backpacking.

Don’t forget to pack your camera – the views from the top of Guadalupe Peak are simply breathtaking!

Extend this trip by visiting other West Texas attractions such as Carlsbad Caverns, Pecos, El Paso, and Fort Stockton .

Big Bend National Park

For the ultimate outdoors adventure, head to Big Bend National Park in West Texas.

The park offers miles of scenic hiking trails through the Chihuahuan Desert and along the Rio Grande River.

Within the park, you’ll also find plenty of opportunities for camping, backpacking, rafting, fishing, and more.

Visit the Terlingua ghost town and Marfa, two popular towns located nearby.

You can also extend your trip by visiting Alpine, Marathon, and Big Bend Ranch State Park.

The best time to visit Texas is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.

Also Read: Austin to Big Bend Road Trip

Texas Route 66

Texas Route 66 offers the perfect road trip, traveling through ghost towns, vintage gas stations, and natural wonders in the state.

Start your journey in Austin and make your way up the Texas Panhandle.

Along the way, be sure to stop at some of the most iconic attractions including Cadillac Ranch and Palo Duro Canyon.

End your trip in Amarillo where you can explore the Historic Route 66 Historic District.

Best Road Trips from Austin beyond Texas

Looking for multi-day overnight trips from Austin, Texas?

There are many amazing road trip options beyond the state’s borders, including the Grand Canyon and Sedona in Arizona;

….New Orleans in Louisiana;

Las Vegas in Nevada; or Denver and Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado!

Also Read: Weekend in Austin Itinerary

Austin New Mexico Road trip

Looking for a great road trip that combines the best of both Texas and New Mexico?

Consider taking a drive on Austin to New Mexico Road, which travels from Austin to Santa Fe.

Along the way, you’ll pass through iconic southwestern landscapes filled with canyons, red rock formations, and stunning sunsets.

Some of the highlights of this road trip include Albuquerque, Carlsbad Caverns, and White Sands National Monument.

Carlsbad Caverns is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site while White Sands is famous for its dunes made of gypsum sand.

Make sure to add this one to your bucket list!

Austin Grand Canyon Road Trip

One of the most popular road trips from Austin is to the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

This trip can be done in a week, making it the perfect summer vacation trip.

The drive from Austin to the Grand Canyon is about 18 hours, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the journey.

Along the way, make sure to stop at some of the many stunning natural wonders in this part of the country.

These include Petrified Forest National Park, Monument Valley, and the Antelope Canyons.

Once you reach Grand Canyon National Park, be sure to spend a few days exploring its many hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and historic sites.

Texas Colorado Road Trip

Another popular road trip destination from Austin is Denver, Colorado.

The beautiful Mile High city is located in the front range of the Rockies and is surrounded by stunning landscapes.

This makes it the perfect destination for a Texas Colorado road trip .

There are many amazing scenic drives in Colorado, including the famous Trail Ridge Road and Peak to Peak Scenic Byway.

You can also explore Rocky Mountain National Park, which is located just outside of Denver and features hiking trails, wildflowers, waterfalls, and alpine lakes.

In winter, Colorado is the favorite ski and snow destination for Texans.

Austin New Orleans Drive

One of the most popular road trips from Austin is to New Orleans.

This drive will take you about 9 hours, but you’ll be sure to enjoy the beautiful southern scenery along the way.

Some of the top highlights of this trip include Cajun Country in Louisiana and the Gulf Coast, with its beautiful beaches and vibrant towns.

As you near New Orleans, make sure to explore some of the city’s iconic neighborhoods including the French Quarter and Garden District.

End your trip with a beignet at Cafe du Monde, one of New Orleans’ most famous landmarks.

Texas California Road Trip

Plan the ultimate cross-country road trip adventure across the Southwest USA!

Starting in Austin, make your way to California via multiple scenic routes, including the classic Route 66 and the California Coast Highway.

Along the way, be sure to stop at some of America’s best national parks like Zion, Joshua Tree, Yosemite, and Death Valley.

Visit the iconic cities of Santa Fe, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

And don’t forget to visit the Disney Parks in Anaheim.

This is a road trip you’ll never forget!

Did you like our post on the best road trips from Austin, Texas?

Which of these trips would you most like to take? Let us know in the comments!

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• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

30 Best Weekend Getaways From Austin — Quick Trips!

Austin, the lively Texan city, offers a world of tantalizing flavors and captivating melodies. 

But beyond its borders lies a realm of untapped wonders, beckoning you to step into the unknown. 

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of nature, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or quality time with family, Austin’s neighboring marvels have it all. 

From charming small towns to bustling metropolises, I have curated a list of the finest destinations in Texas. 

I’ve even included additional locations that will captivate travelers of all ages. 

Prepare for an extraordinary journey as I guide you on the best weekend getaways from Austin.

Best Weekend Getaways From Austin Compared

Discover the ultimate weekend getaways from Austin, handpicked for you. 

From charming Hill Country retreats to coastal havens, I’ve uncovered hidden gems that promise unforgettable family adventures.

Editor’s Choice

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Opened in 1980, this hotel exudes elegance with its historic charm, fine dining, luxurious spa, and impeccable service.

• Room Variety: 4/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 5/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Family-Friendliness: 3/5

#2nd Best Choice

The Post Oak Hotel

The Post Oak Hotel shines like an exquisite gem. The elegant accommodations, meticulously designed with families in mind, offer a haven of comfort and luxury.

• Room Variety: 5/5
• Location: 4/5
• Affordability: 2/5
• Family-Friendliness: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Stanton House El Paso

Nestled in the heart of El Paso, it offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

• Room Variety: 3/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5

Here are top 30 weekend getaways from Austin.

1. Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek (Editor’s Choice)

2821 Turtle Creek Blvd Dallas, TX 75219 (214) 559-2100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Timeless Elegance: The Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek exudes a timeless elegance that instantly captivates guests. 
• Tranquil Location: The peaceful surroundings allow guests to unwind and relax, immersing themselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
• Higher Price Range: While the experience is undoubtedly worth the cost for those seeking indulgence, it may not be suitable for travelers on a tighter budget.
• Limited Family-Friendliness: While Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek provides a remarkable experience for couples and adults, it may not offer as many family-oriented amenities or activities.

Just a short drive from Austin, this historic mansion stands as a testament to timeless beauty. 

Its stunning architecture and lush surroundings will have you swooning from the moment you arrive.

From exquisite menus curated by renowned chefs to exceptional service, this place knows how to pamper you.

And speaking of pampering, their luxurious spa is a slice of heaven on earth. 

It’s an idyllic retreat for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families in search of a luxurious escape, or even solo explorers wanting to treat themselves.

2. The Post Oak Hotel

1600 W Loop S Houston, TX 77027 (844) 386-1600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Exceptional Room Variety: The Post Oak Hotel boasts an exceptional range of room options, providing guests with a variety of choices to suit their preferences and needs.
• Prime Location: Situated in the heart of Houston, The Post Oak Hotel enjoys a prime location that offers easy access to the city’s vibrant attractions, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks. 
• Expensive Dining Options: The prices for meals and beverages within the hotel’s dining establishments may be higher compared to nearby options, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers or those looking for more affordable dining options.
• Availability: It is advisable to make reservations well in advance to secure desired dates and room types. 

The Post Oak Hotel shines like an exquisite gem. 

The elegant accommodations, meticulously designed with families in mind, offer a haven of comfort and luxury.

You’ll also have to prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey like no other. 

From world-class dining options to delectable treats that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters, this place is a food lover’s paradise.

The on-site spa is a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation. 

The attention to detail and family-friendly amenities will make your stay truly unforgettable.

3. Stanton House El Paso

209 N Stanton St El Paso, TX 79901 (915) 271-3600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Unique Charm and Character: With its distinct personality and stylish design, the hotel creates a memorable and immersive experience for guests.
• Budget-Friendly Option: Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations, convenient amenities, and a pleasant stay without breaking the bank.
• Room Variety: While Stanton House El Paso offers comfortable and well-maintained accommodations, the hotel may have limited room variety compared to larger establishments. 
• Moderate Family-Friendliness: Families with younger children might find the property less focused on catering to their specific needs, potentially requiring more effort in finding suitable activities or entertainment options for kids.

It has stylish accommodations, a rooftop bar, and panoramic views of the cityscape.

From the captivating local art scene to the breathtaking mountain views, this place is a feast for the senses.

But what truly sets Stanton House El Paso apart from other attractions in the area is its authenticity. 

You’ll find yourself enchanted by the rich local culture and warm hospitality. 

Exploring the vibrant streets, savoring traditional cuisine, and connecting with the locals will add a layer of depth to your journey.

4. Houston, TX

Houston, TX (800) 446-7866 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Houston is the most populous city in Texas and the most populous city in the South.

Weekend getaway planning is incomplete without considering Texas’ largest city.

Drive for 2 hours and a half and reach Houston, famously called “The Big Heart.”

Assume you have an entire weekend to visit the city’s numerous sights and events.

What are your plans, and where are you going?

We recommend beginning with the highlights and working your way down.

If you’re in the uptown district, visit Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park.

It’s a great location to unwind, with a multi-story water fountain and green space.

Of course, no vacation to Houston is complete without a stop at one of the country’s largest museums.

Explore the Museum of Fine Arts’ 70,000 works by artists from all over the world.

End the trip at the Cockrell Butterfly Center, especially if you’re with the entire family.

Kids of all ages will enjoy seeing hundreds of butterflies, tropical plants, and waterfalls.

Recommended Hotel: JW Marriott Houston Downtown

5. Dallas, TX

Dallas, TX (214) 670-3111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Dallas is Texas’ third largest city and the largest city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.

Another heavyweight option is Dallas, Texas’ cosmopolitan city and food mecca.

It has a stunning skyline and a thriving arts scene, both of which you must explore during your visit.

Begin by learning about art and history in downtown Dallas, just under three hours away.

The Sixth Floor Museum is an excellent first choice, as well as an intriguing one.

View the room from which gunman Lee Harvey Oswald observed the presidential car approaching.

Learn more about John F. Kennedy’s assassination and everything else that happened on that fateful day.

Remember to pay a visit to the HALL Arts Hotel Dallas next.

It mixes art, elegance, and a fantastic Arts District location.

On day two, food-trip your way through the city.

Since Dallas is known for all things barbeque, head to Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill.

They serve the best steak and ribs in town and don’t miss out on the popovers.

If coffee and brunch are your thing, you deserve the best-rated cafe in Dallas.

Cafe 43 serves Benedicts and ice cream in the George W. Bush Presidential Library.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel ZaZa Dallas

Related: Weekend Getaways Near Oklahoma City

6. Corpus Christi, TX

Corpus Christi, TX (361) 826-2489 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Corpus Christi is a Texas city nestled in a bay on the Gulf of Mexico.

Do you want to know what Corpus Christi is famous for?

Travel for three hours and get to know this charming coastal city.

It’s well-known for its high wind speeds, making it an ideal location for sailing and kiteboarding.

But Corpus Christi is much more than that.

There’s the beach to enjoy and the weather to enjoy even more.

Make the most of your visit by enjoying the perks such as picnicking and watching the sunsets.

After you’ve had your fill of the water, explore the city’s murals and art.

This city is as colorful as ever, from Loteria artwork to electricity box murals and sculptures.

To cap off a fantastic tour, drink at night with Corpus Christi’s favorite booze.

Fantastic craft breweries abound, and they know how to create delicious margaritas.

Join the Corpus Christi Beer Trail to experience beer tasting at its finest.

Recommended Hotel: Omni Corpus Christi Hotel

Related: Hotels in Austin

7. Galveston, TX

Galveston, TX (409) 797-3500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Galveston Island State Park is a Texas state park on Galveston Island’s western shore.

Planning for cheap vacations from Austin?

Galveston, an island metropolis on Texas’ Gulf Coast, is only three hours and thirty minutes away.

Explore the island’s many attractions, all within walking distance of one another.

Even better, Galveston vacations are inexpensive, making them ideal for families on a budget.

You don’t have to spend a fortune just to stay, eat, and explore.

Galveston Island State Park, for example, is one of the best places to visit, and it’s free.

It has camping, hiking routes, and birdwatching locations the whole family may enjoy.

The Galveston Children’s Museum is a must-see if you’re traveling with little ones.

It is filled with hundreds of pieces of artwork, making it an exciting experience for artsy children.

Stop at Gaidos after an exciting day of touring the city.

It’s a large Texas seafood mainstay that has been around for a long time.

If you came to Galveston to taste its Gulf Coast oysters, this is the place to go.

Recommended Hotel: The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center

8. Lake Charles, LA

Lake Charles, LA (337) 436-9588 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Charles is well-known for its gambling, rhythm and blues music, and delicious cuisine.

Lake Charles, four and a half hours away, is the ideal weekend retreat.

It’s a beloved Louisiana city for tourists and locals, with various exciting things to do.

Despite being one of the state’s largest cities, it has the feel of a little Southern town.

What should you do first when you arrive?

We recommend taking a stroll through the historic district.

The city has a rich history, which is visible in its architecture.

The homes lining these streets are so well preserved that they transport you to another era.

After that, spend the day at the beach or go for a short hike on one of the trails.

Head over to North Beach to enjoy both, especially if you’re with your outdoorsy family.

It has a boardwalk connecting several nature walks and parks to stretch your legs.

Alternatively, take an educational tour of one of its famous museums.

Visit the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu for an educational and aesthetic experience.

It is open all year and displays Mardi Gras costumes from previous decades.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Lake Charles South Casino Area, an IHG Hotel

9. Georgetown

Georgetown, TX (800) 436-8696 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Georgetown is located 25 miles north of Austin and is home to Texas’ Most Beautiful Town Square.

Are you in a hurry and only have time for last minute weekend getaways from Austin?

There’s no need to travel for hours when Georgetown is just 30 minutes away.

If you only have two days to explore, start by connecting with nature at Lake Georgetown.

It’s a 1200-acre lake where you can spend a few hours fishing, hiking, and camping.

Afterward, satisfy your BBQ cravings at Hello Sweetie! BBQ.

Since Texas is known for its big portions of grilled meat, this is an easy choice.

Have your fill of melt-in-your-mouth ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and all your favorite homemade sides.

Cap off a fantastic day at the famous Georgetown Palace Theatre after dinner.

It features performances for all ages, including comedy, musicals, and family-friendly shows.

Recommended Hotel: Sheraton Austin Georgetown Hotel & Conference Center

Related: Weekend Trips in Texas

10. Luckenbach

Luckenbach, TX (830) 997-3224 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Luckenbach is an unincorporated community in Gillespie County.

Texas is known for all things big, from its food to its cities.

But what about its smallest town?

Get to know Luckenbach after only an hour and a half of driving.

It has a population of only three individuals, which makes it more worthy of a visit.

First, go to the well-known General Store.

This former post office turned store is unquestionably one of the town’s key draws.

It’s an experience in and of itself, from the exterior to the treasures within.

Admire the massive live oak tree out front and browse inside for keepsakes to take home.

What makes Luckenbach even more interesting is country music.

Everywhere you go in Luckenbach, there is music every day.

Eat your lunch at one of the picnic tables while bobbing your head to the lively tunes.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Fredericksburg

11. Falls Creek Vineyards and Becker Vineyards

18059 Farm to Market Rd 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 (512) 858-4050 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Fall Creek Vineyards is the Texas Hill Country’s first winery.

Are you up for a wine-tasting weekend with your significant other?

Visit two of the most beautiful wineries located just 40 minutes away.

Learn about the best wines and spend the weekend buzzing with excitement.

Nothing says romance like wine, especially when paired with opulent accommodations.

Fall Creek Vineyards offers wine and a 4-star Wine Country Inn.

It features two master suites, a fireplace, and a fully equipped kitchen with a private chef.

On the other hand, Becker Vineyards features a magnificent cabin with a lovely flower garden.

Remember to browse the tasting room for a wide range of lavender products, from soaps to eye pillows.

If you’re on the hunt for the best romantic getaways from Austin, there are no better places than these.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Dripping Springs – Austin Area, an IHG Hotel

12. Colorado Bend State Park

2236 Park Hill Dr Bend, TX 76824 (325) 628-3240 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Colorado Bend is a riverside park with waterfalls, caves, and camping areas.

Is it really possible to spend a whole weekend at a park?

It is at Colorado Bend State Park, an hour and 45 minutes drive from Austin.

It has stunning natural scenery, outdoor pursuits, and camping facilities for a cool overnight trip.

One of the nicest paths in the park, the Gorman Falls Trail, is a great place to start your hike.

Tourists frequently hike to the end, where there is a beautiful waterfall.

The vista is spectacular, and you can take shots in the water.

After trekking, cool off at one of the cave excursions and take in the 72-degree temperature.

Recommended Hotel: Painted Sky Inn

13. Dripping Springs

Dripping Springs, TX (512) 858-4740 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Dripping Springs is a predominantly rural town 40 minutes west of Austin.

Another quick weekend getaway in mind?

Consider Dripping Springs if you’re looking for short trips from Austin .

After just a 40-minute drive, learn about this small town with a rich tradition and a modern vibe.

Natural springs, outdoor activities, and breathtaking views make it a year-round destination.

Arrive early to explore historic Mercer Street.

Marvel at its historic stores, all untouched throughout the years.

For a good laugh, head to the Barber Shop Bar and request a haircut.

It’s already been converted into a pub, yet it still appears like a conventional barbershop.

End the day at Dripping Springs’ best-rated restaurant, Epicure Market.

It’s open until 8 pm and serves wine, bistro fare, and cheese plates.

14. Enchanted Rock State Park

16710 Ranch Rd. 965 Fredericksburg, TX (830) 685-3636 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Enchanted Rock is a pink granite peak in the Llano Uplift.

See a magical place with the entire family after just under a two-hour drive.

Enchanted Rock State Park in Texas is famous for its massive pink granite dome.

And obviously, climbing to the top of the dome is one of the best experiences.

If you’re not into hiking, you can still view it from below—the rock is beautiful either way.

It’s also one of the state’s most popular parks for outdoor enthusiasts.

There are numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty, offering some of the most breathtaking views.

Since there are camping grounds, you can easily spend the weekends here.

As a bonus, it’s equally magical at night, being one of the International Dark Sky Parks.

It has a dark sky monitor to assess the relative darkness, making it ideal for astrophotography.

Recommended Hotel: Contigo Ranch

Gruene, TX (830) 629-5077 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Gruene, a German-Texan town in Comal County, was formerly a major cotton-producing hamlet.

We’re all aware that New Braunfels is famed for its German-centric environment and vibe.

But so is its adjacent city, Gruene, located just 47 minutes away.

It still contains the enthralling vestiges of German culture, plus other sights to see.

Bring your family to see its beautiful parks, rivers, and outdoor places.

Do you need assistance deciding where to stay?

We recommend the Gruene River Inn if you enjoy water views.

It is situated on the banks of the Guadalupe River, offering spectacular views of the Texas Hill Country.

When you go out, make sure to stop by the kid-favorite Schlitterbahn.

It’s a fun water park with rides and a calming wave pool if you just like to float about.

Finally, Winery on the Gruene is a great place to end your weekend.

Spend quality time with a loved one while sampling Texas wines on the beautiful terrace.

If you’re looking for places near Austin for vacation, consider Gruene.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village

16. Hamilton Pool Preserve

124300 Hamilton Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 (512) 264-2740 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a recreational area west of Austin in the Texas Hill Country.

Hamilton Pool Preserve, also located in Dripping Springs, is an experience on its own.

If you love hiking, swimming, and educational activities, all of these are under an hour away.

It’s home to incredible birds, rock formations, and a 50-foot waterfall cascading into a box canyon.

If you’re with your family, picnic tables are scattered around for dining.

Bring binoculars for bird-watching and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Keep an eye out for rare plant and bird species like the Cliff Swallows.

Admission is affordable, making it one of the more inexpensive weekend getaways near Austin.

Recommended Hotel: Lakeway Resort & Spa

17. Johnson City

Johnson City, TX (830) 868-7684 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Johnson City is the county seat of Blanco County, located in the Texas-German Belt region.

Texas is filled with family-friendly destinations, and here’s another one.

Johnson City, about an hour away, is packed with fun attractions for all ages.

It’s a little city amid the Appalachian Mountains foothills, so outdoor activities are a given.

It’s an excellent location for biking, hiking, and even discovering a fossil site.

On your first day, go to Gray’s Fossil & Hands-On Museum and explore paleontology exhibits.

It also has a Tesla coil and an art studio for young scientists and artists.

Next, treat yourself and your family to lunch at Main St. Pizza.

Choose from specialty pizzas, subs, pasta, and seasonal specials.

To round out the weekend, rent a bike and ride through the Tweetsie Trail.

This level 9.5-mile trail is ideal for strolling, hiking, running, and biking.

Because of its accessibility, it’s one of the best places to go for a weekend trip near you.

After what you’ve read, don’t you feel convinced to follow the city’s slogan, “Start your adventure here”?

Recommended Hotel: Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa

18. Lake Travis

Lake Travis, TX (512) 261-5121 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Travis is a Colorado River reservoir serving as a flood-control reservoir.

We’ve already recommended beautiful, water-surrounded places.

But what distinguishes Lake Travis (40 minutes away) from the others is its position as a non-Corps of Engineers lake.

This means that lake-related enterprises proliferate, increasing recreational activities.

Water parks, zip lines, lakefront restaurants, boat rentals—you name it.

Daring kids will surely enjoy the Lake Travis Waterloo Adventures.

It has a 600-foot water playground with over 20 obstacles.

Let them climb walls, monkey bars, and balance beams, all while floating above the water.

Participate in the challenge courses; don’t let the youngsters have all the fun.

Catch sunsets afterward at the famous restaurant, The Oasis.

This restaurant is located 450 feet above the lake and offers the best sunset view in town.

It’s the ideal way to wind down the day, especially if you’re with your significant other.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Place Austin Lake Travis/Four Points

19. Longhorn Caverns State Park

6211 Park Road 4 S Burnet, TX 78611 (512) 715-9000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Longhorn Caverns State Park is a natural rock formation-filled underground expanse.

If you’re a nature lover, it’s common knowledge that no two caves are alike.

But if that’s news to you, we have even more good news just 90 minutes away from Austin.

Longhorn Caverns State Park houses The National Cave of Texas.

Enjoy your stay by seeing the famed cave filled with spectacular rock formations.

While you’re doing so, a tour guide will educate you about the cave’s history.

If you’re with your little kids, take them gemstone mining.

They’re provided with their mining sluice box, where they can discover their own gems.

Have a barbecue picnic meal among the Hill Country trees.

The park already provides it, complete with a lunch set for two.

Although you can’t spend the entire weekend here, a Saturday or Sunday trip is worth it.

Recommended Hotel: Hidden Falls Inn

20. Magnolia Market

601 Webster Ave Waco, TX 76706 (254) 235-0603 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Magnolia Market features a chic home design and garden supply center.

Are shopping and dining two of your favorite weekend activities?

We already mentioned Magnolia Market earlier, but there’s so much more than that.

It’s about an hour and a half away, covers a vast area, and has different sections for different purposes.

There’s a quirky home section, the famed silos, and a bargain section.

The most exciting sections, though, are those for foodies.

There are food trucks, a bakery, and a coffee shop for all kinds of “hungry.”

There’s a hangout spot by the famous silos as well.

It’s a grassy area where you can relax, play cornhole, eat, and shop.

It is open Monday through Saturday, making it ideal for a quick day trip on weekends.

Recommended Hotel: Pivovar Hotel

21. Marble Falls

Marble Falls, TX (830) 693-3615 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Marble Falls is known for its iconic rock formations and shimmering lakes.

Have you already exhausted the getaways in Austin?

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll have a great time in Marble Falls.

It’s barely an hour away and has enough natural beauty to explore.

Being surrounded by lakes and state parks, it’s one of the best weekend escapes.

Strolling down Main Street on your first day is a necessity.

While soaking in the local city vibe, you can shop, dine, or walk your way through.

The establishments are almost endless; you can spend the whole weekend exploring.

After you’ve had your fill of Marble Falls’ best eats, enjoy its best drink: wine.

There are several vineyards in and around the city, and one of the best is the Fiesta Winery.

It’s also located downtown, and as a perk, you can sip and roam about while shopping.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Marble Falls

22. McKinney Falls State Park

5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy Austin, TX 78744 (512) 243-1643 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

McKinney Falls State Park is located at the junction of Onion and Williamson Creeks.

Spend the weekend in the great outdoors by camping at one of Austin’s best state parks.

McKinney Falls State Park is technically located within the city limits.

Because of that, it’s one of the best Austin weekend getaways—ideal if you don’t want to go far.

This 641-acre park has approximately 80 campsites, both constructed (RV) and hike-in.

Hike and cycle around the area, or swim and play in the area’s famous swimming spots.

Try birdwatching and animal observation for a more leisurely activity.

If you enjoy fishing, take advantage of the park’s 1.7-mile Onion Creek.

McKinney Falls State Park is highly recommended for laid-back Austin vacations.

Recommended Hotel: TownePlace Suites Austin South

23. New Braunfels

New Braunfels, TX (830) 221-4000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

New Braunfels is a city in Texas near San Antonio known for its rivers.

As previously stated, New Braunfels is a bustling German town full of unusual finds.

You’ll be transported to another country after just a 45-minute drive, from architecture to food to boutiques.

Consider coming for the weekend and starting at the visitor center.

Pick up pamphlets and maps, talk to guides, and learn more about the city’s events.

After that, enjoy a great German lunch at Fork and Spoon.

They provide American fare, but the Freischkaese sandwich is a must-try.

Visit the city’s two famous rivers if you’re here during the summer.

Float down the Guadalupe River or try tubing down the Comal River.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Braunfels, an IHG Hotel

24. Pedernales Falls State Park

2585 Park Rd 6026 Johnson City, TX 78636 (830) 868-7304 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Pedernales Falls is a 5,212-acre state park located on the banks of the Pedernales River.

Can’t get enough of state parks?

If you’re into this kind of getaway, Austin is surrounded by a bunch.

For example, Pedernales Falls State Park is a must-see weekend destination about an hour away.

Become one with nature as you watch the falls and river run over massive limestone slabs.

There’s also a swimming area, but getting there requires a strenuous climb.

If you’re with kids and are up for it, make sure to put safety first.

Camp overnight at one of the water and electricity-equipped sites or hike to a rustic campsite.

Don’t pass up the opportunity to go horseback riding if you’re an experienced rider.

The trail is highly rough and rugged, with some steep slopes, and it demands riding skill.

It’s not a big city or an exciting location, but it epitomizes the ideal “escape.”

Recommended Hotel: Johnson City River Retreat

25. Garner State Park

234 RR 1050 Concan, TX 78838 (830) 232-6132 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Garner State Park is an excellent choice for a swim, a hike, or a relaxing weekend.

Despite being a bit of a journey at over 3 hours, Garner State Park is worth the trip.

It provides breathtaking vistas of the Texas Hill Country, outdoor recreation, and natural wonders.

There is no need to bother about lodging if you visit on the weekend.

There are campsites, screened shelters, and cottages to choose from.

Make a reservation ahead of time because this state park is top-rated.

As soon as you arrive, begin trekking to the summit of Mt. Ol’ Baldy.

The entire trail is a steep and challenging climb, so make sure you’re prepared.

The height of 1,849 feet affords one of the best views because you can see everything in every direction.

If you get hungry, there’s a restaurant inside the park called Garner Grill.

They serve tasty, traditional burgers, and there’s also an ice cream shop that kids will enjoy.

Recommended Hotel: Seven Bluff Cabins

26. Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park, TX (432) 477-2251 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Big Bend National Park spans the Chisos mountain range and the Chihuahuan Desert.

Feel free to plan long weekend trips from Austin to explore the remote wilderness.

But first, prepare for a 7- to 8-hour trip because that’s the travel time for Big Bend National Park.

Big Bend National Park is one of the most underrated parks in the country.

Unsurprisingly, that just adds to its allure.

Get away for adventure by discovering everything it has to offer, which can take 3-4 days.

There is so much to keep you busy, from land excursions to crossing the Mexican border.

First, plan your first day around the Chisos Basin.

It has breathtaking landscapes and some of the best hikes in the area.

Spend the day trekking the park’s three trails, learning about its Mesozoic era, and ending with a sunset.

Make your second day all about a picturesque journey.

The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is a 30-mile route with several vistas and short hikes.

Enjoy each stop by car or motorcycle—the vistas are unparalleled either way.

Explore Rio Grande Village to round off your experience.

Cool off with the kids at the Historic Hot Springs, or head south to Boquillas Del Carmen.

Don’t forget to bring your passport; it’s already beyond the Mexican border.

Recommended Hotel: Terlingua Ranch Lodge

27. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5 Canyon, TX 79015 (806) 488-2227 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Palo Duro Canyon is in the Texas Panhandle, close to Amarillo and Canyon.

The 7- to 8-hour travel time is negligible for seeing the country’s second-largest canyon.

As it is only second in size to the Grand Canyon, every ardent tourist must visit at least once.

Aside from that, the park has more than enough attractions to keep you busy for days.

There are various paths and flat, beautiful hikes with stunning views.

Explore its historical sites and landmarks, go horseback riding, and enjoy camping with the family.

If you’re into mountain biking, there are numerous trails specifically for that.

Make a note to visit the Canyon Gallery for history buffs and art connoisseurs.

Explore west Texas archeological finds and the canyon’s history for an educational tour.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express – Canyon, an IHG Hotel

28. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Salt Flat, TX 79847 (915) 828-3251 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to Guadalupe Peak and El Capitan.

The Guadalupe Mountains are a mountain range in west Texas.

The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is 8 hours away, but don’t fret.

The peaceful surroundings you’ll have all to yourself quickly compensate for the long journey.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is one of the least frequented national parks in the country.

If you’re into a quiet weekend without too much kerfuffle, this is the place to get it.

Start with its most famous attraction: Hunter Peak.

Hike to the top for a magnificent perspective of the area.

For the more daring, choose Guadalupe Peak, the tallest peak in Texas.

If you don’t want to travel back down, you can bring a backpack and camp at the top.

There are numerous hiking trails, too, if you’re not up for mountain climbing.

Explore its magnificent, lush surroundings and stunning vistas, and don’t forget to take pictures.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn

Related: Weekend Getaways From El Paso, TX

29. Caverns of Sonora

1711 Private Rd 4468 Sonora, TX 76950 (325) 387-3105 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Caverns of Sonora are some of the world’s most beautiful show caves.

If you’re one to enjoy caves, visiting the Caverns of Sonora cannot be missed.

Under 4 hours away, this is easily one of Sonora’s most beautiful natural wonders.

But that’s not all there is to see once you get inside.

Apart from the caverns’ depths, there are more attractions on the surface.

There are ranch-inspired grounds, a gift shop, and gemstone panning.

It’s also an excellent spot to cool down because of its consistent temperature of 72 degrees.

It’s not exactly a part of Austin area weekend getaways, but it’s a terrific option.

Recommended Hotel: Motel 6-Sonora, TX

30. Caddo Lake State Park

245 Park Rd 2 Karnack, TX 75661 (903) 679-3351 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Caddo Lake State Park is a wildlife management area run by the state.

Have one of the best weekend getaways from Austin by spending a weekend at a lake.

Caddo Lake State Park, located 5 hours away, is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Texas.

The area boasts stunning scenery and offers a plethora of enjoyable activities.

One of them is geocaching, a recreational activity similar to treasure hunting.

You use coordinates to find hidden stashes, or “caches,” in the surrounding region.

That’s a little out there, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed tour, why not explore the lake?

Caddo Lake can be explored by boat, kayak, or canoe while keeping a lookout for animals.

You can also go fishing, watch the dawn or sunset, or simply relax and enjoy the ambiance.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn Marshall

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing some exceptional destinations firsthand. 

At Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, I was instantly captivated by its timeless elegance. 

The room variety was impressive, offering spacious and tastefully decorated accommodations that catered to our every need. 

The comfort and cleanliness were top-notch, ensuring a restful stay for everyone. 

Located in a serene neighborhood, it provided a tranquil escape from the city buzz. 

While the price was reflective of its luxurious offerings, it might not fit every budget. 

On the other hand, The Post Oak Hotel stood out with its remarkable room variety that left us spoiled for choice. 

The level of comfort and cleanliness was impeccable, making us feel pampered throughout our stay. 

Its location, nestled in the heart of a vibrant district, offered easy access to attractions and entertainment. 

But, affordability might be a concern for some, as it caters to a more upscale clientele. 

Lastly, Stanton House El Paso presented a unique charm with its distinct character. 

While the room variety wasn’t as extensive as the other two, it still offered comfortable and well-maintained accommodations. 

Affordability was a highlight, providing excellent value for the price. 

In terms of family-friendliness, it catered well to families with its welcoming atmosphere and amenities suitable for children.

How I Picked The Destinations 

To ensure that the chosen locations would provide an exceptional experience for travelers, I sought the guidance of locals who shared their recommendations and insider knowledge. 

By engaging with the community, I gained valuable insights into hidden gems, local attractions, and unique experiences. 

Also, I extensively researched online travel resources, including reviews, travel forums, and reputable websites, to gather comprehensive information and ensure the accuracy of my recommendations. 

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are there any outdoor recreational opportunities near austin for a weekend getaway.

Yes, there are several options for outdoor activities near Austin. You can visit the Pedernales Falls State Park, which offers hiking trails and the opportunity to swim and relax by the river. Another option is Hamilton Pool Preserve, a natural swimming hole surrounded by beautiful cliffs and hiking trails. Additionally, the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.

Can You Recommend A Family-Friendly Weekend Getaway From Austin?

Yes. One family-friendly weekend getaway option is Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels, known for its thrilling water rides and attractions. Another option is the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, where you can drive through a safari park and observe a variety of animals up close. Additionally, the Austin Zoo and Zilker Park, with their playgrounds and Barton Springs Pool, are great choices for family fun.

What Are Some Coastal Weekend Getaways Near Austin?

The city of Corpus Christi is approximately a 3-hour drive from Austin and offers beautiful beaches, water sports activities, and attractions like the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington Museum. Another option is Port Aransas, a charming beach town known for its sandy shores, fishing opportunities, and laid-back atmosphere. 

Conclusion 

After exploring the best weekend getaways from Austin, my top choice is unquestionably Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas. 

This stunning property combines timeless elegance with luxurious amenities, creating an unforgettable experience for couples, families, and solo adventurers alike. 

The tranquil location and impeccable service provide a haven of relaxation away from the bustling city. 

While The Post Oak Hotel in Houston offers remarkable room variety and family-friendly amenities, and Stanton House El Paso provides a unique charm and affordability, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek excels in its historic ambiance, exquisite dining, and impeccable service. 

Prepare for an enchanting escape at this gem.

It’s the perfect destination for your next weekend getaway from Austin.

21 Awesome Day Trips from Austin Texas

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: March 30, 2024

Austin Texas is a personal favorite. With so much to do and a vibe you can’t get anywhere else, I’m happy to have called Austin home for over 15 years. There are tons of things to do in Austin , but also so many things to do near Austin – making it a perfect home base for day trips.

From wineries to towns steeped in German heritage , natural swimming holes, and magnificent views of the Texas landscape, you can reach just about everything within a short drive from Austin. You may be tempted to try and visit Dallas or Houston for a day trip but those are best for weekend getaways from Austin – a day just isn’t enough!

Here we go with 21 epic day trips from Austin TX !

21 Best Day Trips from Austin Texas

Fredericksburg.

Nestled in the heart of Texas hill country, Fredericksburg is a perfect day trip that’s only 1.5 hours from Austin.

This unique town is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Pride in its German heritage is felt throughout the town. It can also be tasted in the several German focused restaurants and breweries.

If you’re looking to learn its history check out the Fredericksburg Pioneer Museum or the National Museum of the Pacific War .

For an outdoor activity you can walk the trails at Wildseed Farms in Fredericksburg, the USA’s largest working wildflower farm.

Wine enthusiasts will be at home with the over 100 vineyards in the area, making Fredericksburg truly the heart of wine country.

LEARN MORE: 15 Best Places to Visit in Texas

Marble Falls

There’s so much to do on a day trip to Marble Falls. The drive from Austin is just about 1.5 hours, easy-peasy!

Hiking the trails at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge will give you an awesome view of the landscape and its undisturbed nature. Marble Falls Lake is also a nice place to spend the day outside on the water’s edge.

Sample craft beers and learn how the magic of beer making happens at the local breweries like Bear King , Double Horn , and Save the World . If you prefer wine – Marble Falls has fabulous wineries too!

During springtime Marble Falls is one of the top places to find fields of bluebonnets in Texas .

San Antonio

From historical sites to fabulous food, San Antonio is one of the best day trips from Austin and it’s just an hour away.

An absolute must-do in San Antonio is a visit to The Alamo to learn about the past.

History buffs will be delighted with the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park which consists of 5 different complexes. The San Antonio Missions are the only UNESCO world heritage site in Texas.

For fun San Antonio-style, head to the River Walk . There you can stroll along the river’s edge, enjoy live music, hop into shops, or have a meal at any of the restaurants. Take a cruise on the river for a different view.

LEARN MORE: 15 Best Historic Sites in Texas

Johnson City

In about an hour’s drive from Austin you’ll arrive at Johnson City, a great day trip from Austin. This small town has a ton of charm and history.

The major attraction is the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park . The expansive park contains the property of the former president including his boyhood home, the Texas White House, and a working ranch.

Enjoy a great Tex-Mex meal at El Charro Restaurant or El Agave .

Burn off the lunchtime calories with a stop in Pedernales Falls State Park . Here you will work up a sweat hiking the beautiful landscape and take a dip in the refreshing river waters.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Discovering the majestic pink granite monolith at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is unlike anything else.

With just a 1.5 hours’ drive from Austin it’s not a big deal to go for the day and hike Enchanted Rock .

The park has eleven miles of trails to hike with different views of the beautiful landscape, along with rockclimbing and caving. Definitely head to the top of the rock on the Summit Trail.

It’s a bit of work to get there but absolutely worth it! That’s why Enchanted Rock is an awesome day trip from Austin.

The capital of Texas Hill Country is waiting for you in Kerrville where there’s tons to do on a day trip just 1.5 hours from Austin.

Spending the day outdoors is easy when you take a stroll along the Guadalupe River on the Kerrville River Trail or spend time in Kerrville-Schreiner Park .

Get cultured at the Museum of Western Art , catch a show at the Cailloux Theater , or tour the Schreiner Mansion .

Before leaving Kerrville, fill your belly at any of the restaurants in town, including seriously good Texas BBQ.

Bryan-College Station

Headed to the twin cities of College Station and Bryan? Both are bustling with energy and activity so spending the day there is one of the best things to do near Austin (and it’s only 2 hours away).

Home to Texas A&M University, Aggie pride is everywhere, but you don’t have to be a student to enjoy everything the cities have to offer.

Two museums that should be on your things to do list in Bryan are the Brazos Valley African American Museum and the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library .

Historic downtown Bryan is a great place to spend the afternoon strolling the unique and independent shops.

And Bryan is another popular spot in Texas to find bluebonnet fields in spring.

Krause Springs

Krause Springs is a magnificent place to spend the day. A perfect day trip from Austin that takes only 40-60 minutes to get to.

This beautiful place has 32 natural springs that feed swimming pools on 115 acres making it the perfect escape for a refreshing swim.

The breathtaking landscape and refreshing waters make Krause Springs a favorite among Texans especially during the summer months.

When you’ve dried off after a dip, stroll around the grounds and make sure to check out the butterfly gardens – you’re sure to be delighted.

Dreaming about taking a dip in a natural swimming hole? Then for sure consider a day trip to Wimberley.

This lovely town has two of the best natural pools in Texas: The Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well .

Both of these are favorite places for locals and visitors to cool off in the hot summer. Fed by natural underground springs, the waters keep their refreshing temps year round.

Another option for hot summer days is to go swimming in the Blanco River in Wimberley.

Other awesome things to do in Wimberley include glass blowing demonstrations, wine tasting and zip lining over Wimberley Valley. And of course, the big Wimberley cowboy boot art!

You can’t go wrong with this short day trip (45-60 mins) from Austin.

READ MORE: 15 Best Small Towns in TEXAS

New Braunfels

Looking for tasty bratwurst? Or a refreshing stein of beer? All without leaving the state of Texas? Then set a course for New Braunfels . This quaint town offers an authentic German experience right here in the Lone Star State.

Definitely check out Gruene Historic District where you can step into the past and explore shops including stellar antiques. Another awesome to-do is Gruene Hall where you can hear the best live music in town.

The drive to New Braunfels only takes 45 minutes to an hour, which makes it one of the most convenient day trips from Austin.

Hamilton Pool

A short distance from Austin (about a 45 minute drive) is the beautiful Hamilton Pool Preserve.

This natural pool is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Relatively easy hikes bring you into the wilderness and then to the pool and its beautiful clear blue waters.

Until recently swimming was permitted as well as hiking behind the waterfall. As of now, those two activities are not allowed because of fear of falling rocks.

But not to worry, the beauty of the pool and the surrounding woods still make for a great day trip from Austin.

Texans know Shiner as the home of Spoetzl Brewery . They love taking a tour of the brewery and tasting their favorite Shiner Beer.

Yes, the Spoetzl Brewery is definitely a must-do on a day trip from Austin (only 1.5 hours away), but once you’ve checked it off the list, discover other gems the town has to offer.

Make sure to stop into Antiques, Art & Beer to enjoy a pint or buy a new treasured item. At Howard’s Convenience Store you can sip a drink in the beer garden or listen to live music.

If you’re looking to sample some of Texas’ finest barbecue, look no further than Lockhart, the Barbecue Capital of Texas (no seriously, it is).

Located only 30 minutes away it’s one of the top day trips from Austin.  Here you’ll find tons of places that serve up the delicacy including, Black’s BBQ , Chisholm Trail Barbecue , Smitty’s Market , and Kreuz Market.

Once your belly is full, walk it off exploring everything Lockhart has to offer like the Caldwell County Museum and the Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches . The Lockhart State Park is a great place to hike, bike, fish, and swim.

San Marcos is a favorite with the outdoorsy-types and it’s no wonder.

After the short 30 minute drive from Austin, there’s tons to do in the great outdoors: Go tubing down the San Marcos River or take the adventure up a notch by kayaking the Rio Vista Falls .

Explore caves at Wonder World or hike trails at Rio Vista Park .

Canyon Lake is also a great place to spend time in the fresh air.

Beyond the outdoors, San Marcos offers so much to do – Explore the art scene, shop the outlets, and eat, drink, and be merry at the restaurants and bars.

A day trip to Georgetown has everything from adventure, to relaxation, strolling the shops, and stellar eats. And the best part is that it’s and easy drive, only about 30 miles north of Austin.

Get adventurous at the Inner Space Cavern where you can explore underground caves or ride a heart pounding zipline above ground. Spend the day outdoors hiking Cedar Breaks Park or cool off with a dip in the Blue Hole Park .

Definitely be sure to stroll through historic downtown where you’ll love the architecture, shopping, and restaurants to choose from.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Spend a day at Pedernales Falls State Park with 5,215 acres to explore in Texas Hill Country.

There’s so much to do, that a whole day can be spent enjoying Pedernales Falls from sun up to sun down. Within the park you can hike, bike, and go birding. Looking to cool off, you can swim or go tubing. Fishing is also allowed if that’s your thing.

Just like Johnson City, Pedernales Falls is about an hour away from Austin.

Inks Lake State Park

A perfect day on the water awaits at Inks Lake State Park. It’s just over an hour northwest of Austin, making it an ideal day trip.

There’s no need to lug everything with you on this day trip. You can rent kayaks and paddle boards to get out on the water, plus go swimming and hiking in the park.

If you want to stay on shore you can rent fishing equipment including rods, reels, hooks, and sinkers. Finally, there are places to buy food and drink in the park, so essentially, you’re all set! 

McKinney Falls State Park

Although McKinney Falls is within the Austin city limits it’s on the list for day trips because you’ll want to spend all day chilling out at this park. You’ll forget that you’re technically still in the city.

Bring your bike and check out the trails or go hiking, birding, swimming, fishing, or simply relax by the waterfalls. McKinney Falls park has over 600 acres of beautiful nature to explore and enjoy!

Be sure to bring your swimsuit and enjoy a refreshing dip at both the upper falls and lower falls at McKinney park. It’s magical!

Bastrop State Park

Get out and breathe the fresh air in Bastrop, one of the best outdoor day trips from Austin. Located about 45 minutes away, it’s a short drive to get away from it all.

In the park, head off on a nature walk to see how the earth restores itself in the Lost Pines. Go at a faster pace by biking the 12 mile road in the park. Geocache is thriving in the park with a number of treasures to be discovered.

The pool at Bastrop is the best way to cool off after a great hike, or just during a hot summer day.

Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park has so much to offer as a day trip just an hour from Austin.

Explore the natural beauty of Texas as you hike through the park. Be sure to note the park’s signature dwarf palmetto plants that look like short palm trees. The park is a great place to observe nature up close and it’s a favorite spot for birders.

Discover Geocache treasures left by others throughout Palmetto. Set on the San Marcos River, water activities are great on hot Texas days.

Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is another beautiful state park within a short drive of Austin (less than 2 hours away).

Hikes throughout the park take you through the beautiful Texas wilderness. With over 35 miles to hike or bike, there’s so much to discover.

Hike up to the gorgeous Gorman Falls or head over to the Spicewood Springs for a refreshing swim. This awesome park also lets you paddle down the Colorado River or fish from the banks.

Final Thoughts Austin Day Trips

As you can see, there are incredible things to do near Austin. No matter where you go or which one you choose from the list of 21 awesome day trips from Austin, you’re in for a fabulous day Texas-style.

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7 of the best day trips from Austin

Dec 6, 2023 • 8 min read

Explore the beautiful scenery of the Texas Hill Country on a day trip from Austin © Susan Vineyard / Getty Images

The city of  Austin is a destination in and of itself .

But the city's location in the Texas Hill Country  makes it easy for travelers to access other unique places without a long drive. The area is full of phenomenal hiking spots , popular lakes and rivers, small towns with cute downtowns, and wineries galore. If you’re going to travel all the way to Austin, you might as well sample what the wider region has to offer, too. 

We’ve made a list of our favorite day trip destinations from Austin within a two-hour drive. If you schedule your travels well, you can enjoy the city and some of Texas’ most magical spots all in one vacation.

1. Explore the River Walk and visit the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas

Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

If you can spare a few days to visit San Antonio , don’t miss the opportunity. Its Spanish colonial architecture makes it one of the most beautiful cities in the US. If you only have the day, however, the 15-mile River Walk connects multiple districts like Downtown to the popular Pearl District, home to a food hall, farmers market and shopping. 

A visit to San Antonio wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the city’s historic Spanish past and its vibrant Mexican culture today. The San Antonio Missions National Historic Park features five historic Spanish missions, including the Alamo , which are all connected by a bike path. Don’t miss a chance to experience San Antonio’s Chicano community at El Mercado, a traditional Mexican market full of shops with Mexican-made products, art, traditional food stalls, restaurants, bakeries, and musical and artistic performances.

How to get to San Antonio from Austin:  The easiest way to get to San Antonio from Austin is to drive down I-35. However, you could also take the bus via Greyhound and MegaBus or hop on the Amtrak Texas Eagle train. An Amtrak coach ticket from Austin to San Antonio is cheap, but the journey takes about 3.5 hours – about three times longer than a bus ride or car drive.

2. Fredericksburg is a surprising wine destination

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

People may not associate Texas with being a wine destination, but the small town of Fredericksburg has really made a name for itself in the last few years. Over 100 wineries and vineyards (and one distillery!) surround Fredericksburg, offering different types of tastings and experiences that wine enthusiasts will love.

While you could skip a trip into town and just visit the wineries, it’s worth the time and effort. The city’s German heritage is prominent in the cuisine of local restaurants, the Pioneer Museum , and the architecture of the Vereins Kirche . German culture aside, the downtown area is filled with clothing shops and gift stores that are worth exploring.

How to get to Fredericksburg from Austin:  Most travelers drive from Austin to Fredericksburg and spend the day exploring the town and wineries before returning to ATX in the evening. However, a Greyhound bus is the most affordable transportation option.

If you plan to visit a lot of wineries and engage in wine tastings, you can book half-day wine tours from Austin with Austin Detours or Texas Wine Tours . They will likely not stop in Fredericksburg itself though, so if you want to spend some time in the town, you’ll need to book a private tour or drive your own car.

3. Hit the trails at Pedernales Falls State Park

Travel time: 1 hour

Austin is surrounded by some of the best state parks in Texas, but our favorite is the Pedernales Falls State Park . It’s home to a beautiful river and a mix of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails that take you along rocky outcrops, through forests to overlooks and even to a waterfall.

Yes, you can go swimming in the Pedernales River, as well as kayaking or canoeing on it. Spend a few hours at the park or camp overnight, but just make sure to book your reservation (to visit or for a campsite) well in advance as the park often reaches its capacity by mid-morning and will close to those without permits and reservations.

How to get to Pedernales Falls State Park from Austin:  You’ll need a car to get to Pedernales Falls State Park as there’s no bus or train service. 

4. Eat in Lockhart, the Barbecue Capital of the State

Travel time: 35 minutes

They say you can’t visit Texas without tasting the barbecue , so it’s a good thing that the barbecue capital of Texas is just a short drive from Austin. Lockhart was given the Barbecue Capital honor in 2003 by the Texas Senate, and since then travelers have been making their way to the small town to taste the best smoked, fall-off-the-bone meats.

The four most popular BBQ spots in Lockhart are Black’s Barbecue , Smitty’s Market , Kreuz Market  and Chisholm Trail Bar-B-Q . You can expect slow-roasted meat over oak wood and some phenomenal German-inspired sausages. We highly recommend going on a BBQ crawl between the restaurants tasting different cuts and sides. Sure, you’ll be full by the end, but you’ll be able to say you had a true old-school barbecue-tasting experience.

How to get to Lockhart from Austin:  You could easily drive or get a cab to Lockhart, but if you’re on a budget, take the 1516 Orange Route Interurban Coach CARTS bus line from Austin to Lockhart and back. Get off at the Lockhart H-E-B stop, as it’s within walking distance of the town’s best barbecue joints.

5. Tube the river in San Marcos, Texas

Travel time: 40 minutes

River tubing is a super popular activity in Texas in the summer, and the 72°F San Marcos River that runs through San Marcos is among the top two destinations for it in the state (the Guadalupe River is the second). So, grab some snacks and a floating cooler full of beverages and spend a half or full day tubing the river.

If you have your own tube, you can use the free drop-in spot from San Marcos City Park. Otherwise, rent a tube from the Lion’s Club , which includes an unlimited shuttle pass. The shuttle will pick you up downstream and return you to the launch spot as many times as you’d like. There are lots of other rental tube outfitters located at different parts of the river.

If you’d rather explore the river at night, you could take a quick trip to San Marcos for a Crystal Kayak Glow Tour with Paddle SMTX . It uses clear kayaks with colored lights for its night tours.

How to get to San Marcos from Austin:  If you don’t have a car to get from Austin to San Marcos, you’re in luck – the Interurban Coach is a public bus service that connects Austin with surrounding cities including San Marcos. Travelers can take the 1510 Yellow Route or the 1517 Express Gold Route from Austin to San Marcos, both of which are about an hour-long ride. An all-day pass on the Interurban Coach is only $6. Another transportation option is the Austin to San Marcos Amtrak line on the Texas Eagle. A coach ticket can be as cheap as $5, and the ride is only 45 minutes long.

If your main purpose is to go tubing in San Marcos, you can always book an excursion from Austin. ATXcursions  has a shuttle service from central Austin to San Marcos. A tube rental and ice chests (with ice) are included in the price of the ticket. Plus, you can drink and snack on the shuttle there and back.

6. Party on the water in Lake Travis

Lake Travis is very popular among Austin locals and has a bit of a reputation as being the city’s "party lake." The lake itself is 63.75 miles long and has over 271 miles of shoreline, making it a fantastic destination to rent a boat, jet ski, kayak or canoe. Devil’s Cove is where the party is at – boaters of all types tie their boats together, and people hang out, drink and enjoy the Texas sun. 

If you don’t want to rent a boat, you can always go fishing at Lake Travis, test yourself on the Waterloo Adventures on-the-water challenge course or go ziplining at Lake Travis Zipline Adventures. Don’t forget to grab a bite at the Oasis , the largest outdoor restaurant in Texas with stunning lake and sunset views. It has live music, too!

How to get to Lake Travis from Austin:  The only way to get to and from Lake Travis is by taxi, Uber, Lyft or your own car.

7. Enjoy small-town fun in Wimberly 

Travel time: 50 minutes

The Hill Country is full of small towns, and any Austinite will tell you that Wimberly is a great day excursion. Spend some time shopping among boutique stores and art galleries in the Historic Downtown before grabbing a meal at the CreekHouse Kitchen and Bar or a wine tasting at the Hill Country Wine Shoppe .

Experience the Wild West at Pioneer Town , an old-timey town with cool buildings that the whole family will love. If one day isn’t quite enough, the Wimberly area is full of cabin rentals and hotels with spas. It offers adventure like horseback riding and ziplining, artsy activities like glass blowing and even tastings at a rum distillery.

And if you travel to Wimberly in the summer, don’t forget to visit the Blue Hole Regional Park , Cypress Falls Swimming Hole  or Jacob’s Well Natural Area . These swimming holes offer a cool respite from the sweltering Texas heat.

How to get to Wimberly from Austin:  Trust us when we say that a car is necessary to visit Wimberly. You could take the Texas Eagle Amtrak train from Austin to San Marcos and then get a 25-minute taxi, Uber or Lyft ride from San Marcos to Wimberly, but you’ll find it difficult to get to all the destinations around Wimberly without your own car.

This article was first published January 2020 and updated December 2023

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Kim and Kalee

Building a Life You Love

Best Short One Day Trips from Austin – 13 Road Trips from Austin, TX

Austin is a great place to visit because it has great outdoor activities, food, and live music. There is literally something for everyone! The best part? There are excellent day trips that are easy to get to and so unique! Below are our favorite short one day trips from Austin!

We visited downtown Austin a few years ago and fell in love with the people and the “weirdness” of it! In 2021, we planned a 3-day weekend in Austin to see the city one day with day trips to Waco and San Antonio the other days. Both were fun places and super unique. We also passed through the G ruene historic district in New Braunfels, Texas on our way to San Antonio’s riverwalk!

We flew from Nashville into Austin, and it was such an easy, direct flight with Southwest. We paid less than $100 for each plane ticket too!

We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Austin. It was walkable to South Congress (if you were fit, ha!).

Our 3 Day Plan

• Day 1: Fly into Austin, go to Waco, dinner back in Austin at Gourdough’s
• Day 2: Shop on South Congress and then go to San Antonio riverwalk (we stayed the night, but you could drive back).
• Day 3: Back to Austin for lunch at home slice in Austin, TX

When we arrived, we picked up our rental car, put all of our luggage in the trunk, and headed to Waco, TX!

#1 Short One Day Trips from Austin — Waco, TX

A short day trip from austin to waco, tx is the perfect idea for a girls’ weekend.

It took about 2 hours to get to Waco from the Austin airport.

As a Fixer Upper fan, I had to go to Magnolia Market and see the Silos!

Once we got there, we enjoyed one of the best cupcakes of my life at the Silo’s Baking Co.

After walking around the shops and taking in all the sites, we ate at Magnolia Table. It’s Chip & Joanna Gaines’ restaurant just down an exit or two from the Silos. 

The food was okay, but trying to get a reservation was a pain! (I booked it at midnight 2 weeks before the trip. Reservations open at midnight CST on their website).

I don’t know if I would do it again — especially since Waco has an In-N-Out, and we don’t have them in Tennessee.

You may also like to see Harp Design Co and the Little Shop on Bosque if you’re a Fixer Upper fan.

After lunch, we drove back to Austin and enjoyed Gourdoughs’ Public House’s burgers and (amazing) doughnuts!

We also are not opposed to Home Slice Pizza before going on another short day trip either!

#2 Short One Day Trips from Austin — Gruene ( New Braunfels , TX)

History buffs definitely would enjoy gruene, tx..

It’s also only 45 minutes from Austin!

It could be great for a family, but I’d also say couples would enjoy it because of Gruene Hall. It’s the oldest dance hall in Texas.

The historic site is still an operating dance floor with live music! It was built in 1978!

#3 Short One Day Trips from Austin – San Antonio, TX

After passing through gruene, we went to san antonio.

San Antonio is about 80 miles from Austin.

We really wanted great Mexican food and amazing views, so we stayed at the Hotel Contessa with a river view. But you could also do this trip in a day!

We absolutely loved walking the river walk! There were so many great places to stop and get a drink or a bite to eat.

If you’re traveling with kids, you may also like San Antonio’s museum or the San Antonio zoo.

I wish we had another day to go back to the San Antonio Pearl District!

It would be a great short on day trip from Austin for a group of girlfriends!

I worried San Antonio would feel a bit very touristy and almost cheap, but it was a really great stay! Whether you’re traveling with nature lovers or a group that prefers art galleries and spas over a RV campsite, San Antonio has options!

Other Short One Day Trips from Austin

Round rock is great for families.

We love that it’s only about 20 minutes from Austin, too!

When visiting, you have to go to The Salt Lick for BBQ! It’s a famous BBQ joint that’s been around since the 60s! 

You may also like Old Settlers Park, Rock’N River Water Park, or Twin Lakes Park in Cedar Park. 

We specifically like Brushy Creek’s Trail. It’s is a paved trail that is just short of being 8 miles long. It’s perfect for walkers, joggers and bikers, and some gorgeous views. You can choose from a couple picnic areas well. 

Georgetown is a short drive and easy day trip for families or couples.

It’s about 30 minutes away from Austin.

The town is known the million year old cave, Inner Space Cavern. You can sign up for cave tours throughout the day.

Other great spots in Georgetown are Cedar Breaks Park, Lake Georgetown, and Blue Hole Park 

Lockhart State Park

If you are looking for hiking trails, camping spots, fishing, or swimming — check out this gorgeous state park.

It’s about 40 minutes from Austin.

The Lockhart State Park offers over 250 acres of outdoor activities for nature lovers!

Dripping Springs

If you’re looking for a small, town vibe – check out dripping springs.

Dripping Springs is a little town just 30 minutes from Austin.  There are only 4,000 people there!

We love the laid-back, small town vibes in this area! You can do a little shopping before discovering Charro Ranch Park or going to the natural pool, Hamilton Pool Reserve.

Tip: If you do the Hamilton Pool Reserve, you need to reserve tickets ahead of time.

Also – if you’re on a couple’s trip or girls’ getaway, you may also love an afternoon at Deep Eddy’s Vodka Tasting Rooms!

Johnson City

If you’re into history, lyndon b johnson’s national park is here.

It’s only about an hour from Austin.

The area is a super small town (about 2000 people!). You may like the Science Mill, Pedernales River Nature Park, or visiting Lyndon B. Johnson’s childhood home.

Lake Travis

Love water sports lake travis is the perfect spot for all things water.

It’s about 30 minutes from Austin.

Along with swimming, boating, and skiing, Lake Travis also hosts events year-round!

So make sure to see about any concerts or festivals happening before you make the trip!

Photo is of a mural in Austin, TX on South Congress Street

Spicewood Springs

Love willie nelson check out his hometown for a fun couples trip or girls getaway.

While you could go with family, we like Spicewood Spring’s wineries and natural swimming pool at Krause Springs. It’s a great spot for adults, as well as, boating on Lake Travis.

These short one day trips from Austin are great for a girls trip or a fun getaway for couples! Which of the road trip ideas do you like best?

Need more short one day trips from austin you may also like:.

• Marble Falls   – About 1 Hour from Austin – Great for Couples or Empty Nesters 
• San Macros – About 1 Hour from Austin – Great for Couples
• Wimberley   – 45 Minutes from Austin –  Great for Couples or a Girls Getaway

We hope you love each one of these short one day trips from Austin! There are always more places to visit, and we’d love to know your favorite spots in the central Texas! Let us know in the comments!

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8 Must-Do Weekend Road Trips from Austin, Texas

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski June 10, 2021 Updated October 02, 2023

Have a free weekend and want to get out of town? You don’t have to drive far from Austin to reach another place worth your while.

Sure, there’s plenty to see and do without leaving Austin’s city limits, but when the travel itch hits, the state capital’s location in central Texas makes it the perfect starting point for your weekend adventure. From metropolitan adventures to nature escapes, these are the best weekend road trips from Austin.

Quick note: As you’re planning your getaway, just keep in mind that traffic can get bad around the big city centers during the morning and evening rush hours. To spend more time exploring and less time on the road, it’s in your best interest to plan your drives around these busy time periods. Or at least have some podcasts pre-downloaded.

Related Read: 9 Best Texas Scenic Drives for Enjoying the Lone Star State Countryside

1. San Antonio

Austin is neighbors with another one of Texas’ major cities: San Antonio. Nicknamed both Alamo City and the River City, San Antonio is known among other things for its historical attractions, amusement parks, and Hispanic heritage. It was founded all the way back in 1718 so it has plenty of history on offer.

While you’re in San Antonio, you can’t miss seeing two of the top attractions not just in the city, but in the whole state: The Alamo (the famous 18th-century mission), and the River Walk , a picturesque stretch of shops and restaurants along the water. Aside from those spots, make time to see the other beautiful Spanish missions. Along with the Alamo, they form a collective national historical park and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you love a good theme park, you’ll be happy to know there are two big ones in San Antonio. First, there’s Six Flags Fiesta Texas , which is full of roller coasters and other thrill rides. Then, there’s SeaWorld , which is the country’s largest marine life park.

• Distance from Austin: 80 miles
• Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 20 mins

Related read: The 8 Best Weekend Road Trips from Dallas, Texas

2. Fredericksburg

Good news, vino lovers: there’s no need to fly to Sonoma to have a wine-themed getaway. Fredericksburg is the center of the Texas wine country and the best weekend trip from Austin if you’re obsessed with all things pino. From here, you can easily book a wine tour or shuttle, or you can make your own itinerary by hopping between the many tasting rooms in the city center and the vineyards in the immediate surroundings.

Not into wine? Fredericksburg still has a lot to offer its visitors. For history buffs, there’s the National Museum of the Pacific War as well as the Pioneer Museum . For hiking enthusiasts, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is has views to justify its impressive name.

Another thing that makes Fredericksburg unique is its German heritage. The city was founded by German immigrants in 1846, and you’ll see that celebrated in some of the local restaurants and biergartens (yes, they have biergartens!)

• Distance from Austin: 78 miles
• Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 30 mins

Houston is the largest city in Texas by population and by area. Needless to say, you’ll find more than enough to fill your itinerary if you choose to spend your weekend trip from Austin here.

It may be hard to believe, but Houston has over 150 museums and cultural institutions, and you can hop between many of them with a visit to the city’s Museum District. Some of the best include the Houston Museum of Natural Science , the Museum of Fine Arts , The Menil Collection , and the Holocaust Museum .

If it’s your first time in Houston, you’ll also want to visit Space Center Houston (the city is called “Space City,” after all). This attraction is the official visitor center of NASA and features awesome exhibits on science and space exploration, including real and replica spacecrafts.

You’ll also find a few beloved green spaces tucked into Houston’s sprawling city landscape. Buffalo Bayou Park, Hermann Park, Memorial Park, and Discovery Green are all popular spots with locals and the perfect spot for a picnic or walk in between museum visits.

• Distance from Austin: 162 miles
• Drive time without stops: 2 hours, 30 mins

A straight shot north from Austin on I-35, Dallas is one of Texas’ biggest cities. Given that fact, you can settle down in the neighborhood that best matches your interests, or spend a little bit of time checking out a few of the city’s unique pockets.

Does your perfect day sound like hopping between local boutiques, galleries, and restaurants? Then the Bishop Arts District (slogan: “Dallas’ most independent neighborhood”) is calling your name. Interested in catching some live music? Deep Ellum, a neighborhood known for its entertainment venues and nightlife, is the place to go. Want to shop ‘til you drop? Then it’s Uptown for you. In terms of variety, the city offers plenty, even if you have a group of travel companions taking a weekend trip from Austin all interested in different activities.

Museum-wise, there’s quite the range here from the Dallas Museum of Art to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science to the Nasher Sculpture Center . Another top attraction is the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza , which commemorates JFK’s life, death, legacy, and is located in the spot from which Kennedy’s assassin took aim.

• Distance from Austin: 195 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours

5. Corpus Christi

Austin may not be on the coast, but a weekend is definitely enough time to get there and have some leisurely fun in the sun. South of Austin on the Gulf Coast, Corpus Christi is a popular weekend trip from Austin for beach-minded Texans.

Close to the city center, you have North Beach and McGee Beach, but drive a little bit further and you can get to Padre Island – the world’s longest barrier island – where you’ll find the popular Whitecap Beach. Near there is also Mustang Island State Park, which offers more than five miles of coastline and lots of opportunities for camping, paddling, and birdwatching. You can have a party type of atmosphere, or more of a “relax and feed the seagulls” type of weekend.

It’s not just about fun in the sun in Corpus Christi, though. Other local attractions include the Texas State Aquarium (a nonprofit aquarium dedicated to conservation and rehabilitation), The Selena Museum (honoring Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the late “Queen of Tejano music”), and the USS Lexington (a World War II aircraft turned museum).

• Distance from Austin: 199 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours, 20 mins

6. Galveston

Near Houston, Galveston is another option for a coastal weekend trip. With 32 miles of shoreline, the island has a few different beaches where you can post up for the day. Another way to enjoy that ocean air is to walk along the historic Seawall, which dates back to 1902 and was built for protection from hurricanes.

Speaking of 1902, Galveston has quite a few beautiful historic sites. There’s the Strand Historic District (a national historic landmark district with Victorian-era buildings) as well as Bishop’s Palace and Moody Mansion , two impressive Victorian mansions you can tour. Are they haunted? Up to you.

If you can find some time to step away from the beach, head to Moody Gardens , a popular attraction recognizable by its three large pyramids. There’s one with an aquarium, one with tropical flora and fauna, and one with science exhibits and activities. For even more fun, you can pay a visit to Schlitterbahn Waterpark .

• Distance from Austin: 215 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours, 45 mins

7. Garner State Park

If you’re getting out of town because you want to connect with nature and get away from the concrete vibes for a bit, the best weekend trip from Austin for you will be Garner State Park , which spans over 1,700 acres and has 16 miles of trails to hike. It’s a nearly perfect place to get away for the weekend. West of Austin in Concan, it’s one of the most popular state parks in Texas.

Since a few miles of the Frio River run through the park, it’s particularly nice to come here when the weather is warm so you can go for a swim or float the river. Another reason to come during the summer? The park’s famous nightly Summer Dances at the park’s concession building and dance pavilion, a tradition that started back in the 1940s.

In terms of camping, there are tent sites, screened shelters, and cabins available, and you can make reservations online.You can also rent on-site everything you need for water-bound fun, like inner tubes, paddle boats, and kayaks.

• Distance from Austin: 175 miles

Related Read:   The 9 Best State Parks Near Austin, Texas

8. Lost Maples State Natural Area

Not too far from Garner State Park is another popular place to commune with nature: Lost Maples State Natural Area in Vanderpool. Totaling about 2,900 acres, this area is famous for its fall foliage, so plan for a weekend trip from from Austin in October or November if you want to try and catch the beautiful transformation of colors. There’s even a fall foliage color report you can check online that’s updated weekly during the season.

Even if you go to Lost Maples during a season other than autumn, you’ll be in for a good time. You can hike over 10 miles of trails; the East and West Trail loops in particular take you to some pretty great views. There’s also fishing in the Sabinal River or Can Creek (you don’t need a license to fish from a shore or pier here), and birdwatching (keep an eye out for the endangered golden-cheeked warbler).

Lost Maples has 30 campsites with water and electricity as well as primitive campsites you can backpack to, all of which you can reserve online in advance.

• Distance from Austin: 143 miles
• Drive time without stops : 3 hours

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Seen in: Austin , Road Trips , Texas

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski

Cindy Brzostowski is a freelance writer focusing on travel and other lifestyle content. Originally from Texas, she is currently based in Berlin. Her work has been featured in Travel & Leisure, Thrillist, TripSavvy, Food & Wine, The Infatuation, and more.

When not writing, reading, or eating, you can probably find her making an itinerary for her next adventure or dreaming about pizza.

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The 14 Best Day Trips From Austin, Texas (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for some amazing day trips from Austin, Texas to include in your Texas itinerary? Here are a few of our favorites!

Austin , the capital city of Texas, is home to so many incredible attractions.

This big city is home to an abundance of live music, local shops, world-class museums, delicious eateries, and natural landmarks like Lady Bird Lake.

Downtown Austin can easily entertain travelers for days!

But once you’ve made the most of downtown Austin, consider trying out a few day trips. Austin is surrounded by some real gems, and you can immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and charm of Central Texas on some of these day trips.

From swimming in the stunning Hamilton Pool Preserve to exploring the rich history of New Braunfels or San Antonio, here are some of the best day trips from Austin!

Check out our list of the best things to do in Texas for more inspiration about this amazing state!

Table of Contents

1. Pedernales Falls State Park

2. marble falls, 3. blue hole regional park, 4. johnson city, 5. san antonio, 6. palmetto state park, 7. san marcos, 8. dripping springs, 9. colorado bend state park, 10. round rock, 11. new braunfels, 12. enchanted rock, 13. houston, 14. balcones canyonlands national wildlife refuge, 14 best day trips from austin, texas.

There are so many things to do in downtown Austin, but there is also plenty to do outside the city! These day trips encompass the best parts of the Lone Star State, whether you want to tour a big city, small city, small Texas town, or state park.

All of these are only a short drive from downtown Austin! We recommend renting a car as there aren’t too many guided tours and public transport may be limited.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

• Distance from Austin: 41 miles
• Driving time: 54 minutes

Pedernales Falls State Park is a natural gem located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, approximately 30 miles west of Austin.

This stunning park spans over 5,200 acres and is renowned for its rugged beauty and pristine wilderness.

At the heart of the park is the picturesque Pedernales River, which meanders through limestone canyons, forming captivating waterfalls and cascades.

Visitors flock to the park to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, birdwatching, and camping. The park’s extensive trail system offers something for every level of hiker, from easy strolls to challenging backcountry treks, all of which provide breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding landscapes.

Pedernales Falls State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while showcasing the rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

One of the park’s most iconic features is the Pedernales Falls themselves, a series of limestone terraces and pools where visitors can cool off during the scorching Texas summers.

Whether you’re an avid outdoor adventurer or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Pedernales Falls State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Texas Hill Country!

• Distance from Austin: 48 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour

Marble Falls, Texas, nestled in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, is a charming city known for its stunning natural beauty and welcoming small-town atmosphere.

The city derives its name from the scenic falls on the Colorado River, which used to be adorned with marble-like limestone formations.

While the falls are now submerged beneath Lake Marble Falls, the area remains a popular destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Visitors can indulge in activities like boating, fishing, and swimming in the clear waters of Lake Marble Falls, or explore the nearby Longhorn Cavern State Park , famous for its underground limestone formations and intriguing history.

Marble Falls exudes a distinct Texan charm, with a downtown area filled with quaint local shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Marble Falls also boasts a thriving wine industry, with several wineries and vineyards in the surrounding Hill Country region, offering wine tastings and scenic tours.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, a taste of Texan cuisine, or a dose of local culture, Marble Falls is one of the best day trips from Austin!

• Distance from Austin: 40 miles
• Driving time: 48 minutes

Blue Hole Regional Park , located in Wimberley, Texas, is a hidden gem that makes a beautiful Austin day trip.

This 126-acre park is renowned for its stunning natural swimming hole, which is a crystal-clear, spring-fed pool that beckons visitors with its cool, refreshing waters. The pool is surrounded by towering cypress trees, lush greenery, and limestone bluffs, creating a serene and picturesque oasis.

Blue Hole Park is not just a popular spot for swimming but also for picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching. The park offers well-maintained trails that wind through the scenic landscape, providing opportunities for visitors to explore the beauty of the Hill Country.

Whether you’re taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters, hiking the scenic trails, or simply unwinding in the shade of the giant cypress trees, Blue Hole Park offers a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, making it one of the top day trips from Austin!

Explore more of the state with our 10 Day Texas Road Trip Itinerary !

• Driving time: 55 minutes

Another fun day trip idea in central Texas is Johnson City, a charming and historic small town known for its rich cultural heritage.

The town is best known as the birthplace of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson.

Visitors can explore the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park , which includes the LBJ Ranch, where the former president spent his childhood and later returned during his time in office.

The park offers a glimpse into the life and times of LBJ, with tours of the family home, the Texas White House, and informative exhibits that provide insight into his legacy.

Beyond its historical significance, Johnson City is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. The town’s downtown area features art galleries, boutiques, and local restaurants that showcase the region’s creative spirit and culinary delights.

Johnson City’s small-town charm, historical significance, and proximity to the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country make it a delightful destination for those looking to immerse themselves in both culture and nature.

• Distance from Austin: 80 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Another one of the best day trips from Austin is San Antonio , a city packed with fun things to do!

At the heart of the city lies the historic Alamo Mission, famously known for the 1836 Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution.

San Antonio also boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, including the UNESCO-designated San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, showcasing a series of Spanish colonial missions that played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s history.

The city’s vibrant downtown area is home to the famous San Antonio River Walk, a picturesque network of meandering canals lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.

San Antonio is also celebrated for its diverse and dynamic culture. It’s a city where Texan traditions meet Mexican influences, resulting in a unique culinary scene that showcases Tex-Mex cuisine at its finest. Visitors can savor mouthwatering dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and tamales while enjoying the lively atmosphere of local restaurants.

With its rich history, cultural diversity, and vibrant atmosphere, San Antonio makes an excellent Austin day trip!

• Distance from Austin: 56 miles

Located just an hour’s drive from Austin is Palmetto State Park. This natural oasis is characterized by its lush, subtropical environment and unique blend of ecosystems.

Named after the dwarf palmetto plant that thrives within its boundaries, the park is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.

The San Marcos River, which meanders through the park, offers opportunities for swimming, tubing, and fishing, while the park’s diverse flora and fauna provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and hiking.

Visitors can explore a variety of trails that wind through dense forests, wetlands, and picturesque meadows, immersing themselves in the park’s rich biodiversity.

With its serene ambiance, rich natural beauty, and abundant recreational activities, Palmetto State Park is a true gem in the Texas State Park system, offering a tranquil escape for outdoor lovers.

Read next: The 21 Best Things To Do In San Antonio

• Distance from Austin: 31 miles
• Driving time: 35 minutes

San Marcos makes another beautiful day trip from Austin. The San Marcos River, which flows through the heart of the city, is a central attraction.

The crystal-clear waters of the San Marcos River remain a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it a popular spot for tubing, kayaking, and swimming.

The city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident in places like the Spring Lake Natural Area, home to Aquarena Springs, where visitors can learn about the region’s unique aquatic ecosystems.

This is one of the best Austin day trips for those looking to spend some time in the water on a hot summer day!

San Marcos also boasts a historic downtown area filled with charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues, offering a perfect blend of Texas hospitality and college-town vitality.

San Marcos is not only a hub for outdoor enthusiasts but also a cultural center with a rich history. The city’s ties to its past are evident in the historic district, where you can find beautifully preserved buildings, museums, and cultural sites that tell the story of San Marcos’s development.

The music scene is thriving, with live performances happening regularly at local venues and during events like the annual Texas River Festival. There are so many things to do on a day trip to San Marcos!

• Distance from Austin: 23 miles
• Driving time: 30 minutes

Just 30 minutes away from Austin is Dripping Springs, Texas, a picturesque and charming Hill Country town.

Known for its stunning nature, friendly community, and vibrant cultural scene, Dripping Springs has become a sought-after destination for both residents and visitors.

The town’s name originates from the numerous natural springs in the area that gently “drip” clear, cool water from the limestone cliffs, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a must-see on this day trip! Hamilton Pool is a natural swimming hole with a waterfall formed by one of these springs. Its turquoise waters make the perfect escape from the Texas heat.

Dripping Springs also has a thriving arts and music community, with various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Mercer Street, the town’s historic district, is lined with shops, art galleries, and local eateries, making it a hub of creativity and local flavor.

From swimming in Hamilton Pool Preserve to indulging in the local food and culture, Dripping Springs has everything you need for an unforgettable day trip.

• Distance from Austin: 96 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Colorado Bend State Park is a natural wonderland encompassing over 5,000 acres of diverse landscapes, making it a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

At the heart of the park lies the stunning Gorman Falls, a 70-foot spring-fed waterfall cascading down travertine formations, surrounded by lush vegetation.

The park features over 32 miles of scenic trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, including riverbanks, canyons, and caves.

Colorado Bend State Park is a haven for caving enthusiasts, with more than 400 known caves within its boundaries, including the impressive Gorman Cave. Guided cave tours are available for those eager to delve into the underground wonders, offering a unique and educational adventure.

Additionally, the park boasts access to the pristine Colorado River, where visitors can partake in fishing, kayaking, and swimming. No matter which activities you choose, this stunning state park is one of the best Austin day trips!

Find more things to do in Austin with our complete guide !

• Distance from Austin: 18 miles
• Driving time: 25 minutes

Round Rock, Texas, located in the picturesque Williamson County, is a vibrant and thriving city that beautifully blends its rich history with modern amenities and a strong sense of community.

Named after a large round rock in Brushy Creek that served as a natural landmark for early travelers, the city has evolved into a dynamic suburban hub just north of Austin.

Round Rock offers a diverse range of attractions and activities, making it an ideal day trip from Austin.

It boasts a charming downtown area with boutique shops, local breweries and restaurants, and cultural events, providing a small-town feel with all the conveniences of a larger city.

The city also takes pride in its numerous parks and recreational opportunities, including the Rock’N River Water Park and Old Settlers Park , one of the largest municipal parks in Texas.

Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or a welcoming community, Round Rock offers a vibrant and inviting destination in the heart of Central Texas.

Another one of the best day trips from Austin is New Braunfels. Situated along the banks of the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers in the heart of Texas Hill Country, New Braunfels is a historic and charming city with a rich German heritage.

Founded in 1845 by German immigrants, the city has managed to preserve its cultural roots while embracing modernity.

New Braunfels is renowned for its idyllic natural settings, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers.

The Comal River is famous for being one of the shortest navigable rivers in the world and offers excellent tubing opportunities, while the Guadalupe River is known for its stunning beauty and prime conditions for kayaking, fishing, and swimming.

Additionally, the city is home to Landa Park, a 51-acre oasis featuring a spring-fed pool, hiking trails, picnic areas, and even a miniature train that winds through the scenic park.

The Gruene historic district of New Braunfels is lined with picturesque streets and squares, offering a wealth of boutique shops, restaurants serving German cuisine, and live music venues.

The city’s German heritage is celebrated annually with Wurstfest, a lively and colorful ten-day festival showcasing the best in German food, music, and culture.

Moreover, New Braunfels is home to the historic Gruene Hall, one of the oldest continually operating dance halls in Texas, where music lovers can enjoy live performances in a rustic, historic setting.

With its mix of natural beauty, rich history, and lively cultural scene, New Braunfels is a captivating day trip destination!

Check out our list of the 18 Best Places To Visit in Texas for more ideas!

Enchanted Rock, a prominent geological wonder, is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Texas. Situated in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, this massive pink granite dome rises 425 feet above the surrounding landscape, creating a striking and mesmerizing sight.

The name “Enchanted Rock” is rooted in Native American legends and stories that suggest the rock holds mystical and spiritual significance.

Today, it is a cherished destination for hikers, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts. A network of trails leads visitors to the summit, where breathtaking panoramic views of the Hill Country await, especially during sunrise and sunset.

The park surrounding Enchanted Rock offers a wealth of outdoor activities beyond hiking. Rock climbing is a popular pursuit, with numerous routes catering to various skill levels.

Birdwatching is also a favorite pastime, as the park is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it an excellent spot for ornithologists and nature photographers.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area preserves not only the natural beauty of the granite dome but also the rich cultural history of the region, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Nature lovers and history buffs alike will have a blast on this day trip!

• Distance from Austin: 165 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Houston , Texas, is a bustling and diverse metropolis known for its dynamic blend of culture, commerce, and innovation.

As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston boasts a thriving economy driven by industries such as energy, healthcare, aerospace, and technology.

The Space Center Houston , affiliated with NASA, celebrates the city’s integral role in space exploration, and visitors can explore fascinating exhibits and even see historic spacecraft.

Houston’s cultural scene is as diverse as its population, with an array of museums, theaters, and galleries. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Menil Collection house impressive art collections spanning various periods and styles.

The city’s Theater District, with its numerous venues, offers a wide range of performances, from Broadway shows to ballet and opera. With its thriving economy, rich cultural offerings, and welcoming spirit, Houston stands as a modern and dynamic urban center that makes one of the best Austin day trips!

• Distance from Austin: 39 miles
• Driving time: 46 minutes

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for native wildlife and a haven for nature enthusiasts that makes a fascinating day trip from Austin.

Established in 1992 to protect the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo, this 23,000-acre refuge encompasses rugged limestone canyons, rolling hills, and a diverse range of habitats.

Visitors to the refuge can explore a network of hiking trails and scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the Texas Hill County landscape, as well as opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and enjoying the serenity of nature.

With its commitment to preserving native ecosystems and the wildlife that depends on them, Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge provides a unique and valuable conservation area in the heart of Texas.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

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ONE CHEL OF AN ADVENTURE

Best day trips from austin, tx.

Looking for fun day trips from Austin ? Check out this list of 21 day trip ideas in Central Texas! The list is broken down by distance from Austin:

• Less than 30 minutes away
• 30 – 45 minutes away
• 1 hour away
• Under 2 hours away

Happy day trip planning! Don’t forget to make sure your car is road trip ready and check out these super helpful apps to download before your next driving adventure !

This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting onechelofanadventure.com!

Day Trips From Austin That Are Less Than 30 Minutes Away

Driftwood wineries + the salt lick.

Looking for a fun day trip from Austin with friends? Head to Driftwood and enjoy some amazing wine, brewery, and distillery tours! Stopping for BBQ at The Salt Lick is a MUST.

Distance from Austin: About 30 minutes southwest

McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls State Park is filled with winding trails and beautiful waterfalls. You can do it all here: hike, bike, fish and swim! Check out their interactive trail maps and plan your next Austin day trip.

Distance from Austin: About 15 minutes southeast

Dripping Springs Wine Tour

Dripping Springs is a great day trip destination! You can check out the area’s wineries, or do something a little different… tour the Texas Olive Industry Orchard! 

Bastrop, TX

Bastrop is said to be “the most historic small town in Texas.” There are tons of things to do, like exploring their historic downtown, zip line at Lost Pines, hike in Bastrop State Park and more! Visit their website for more ideas.

Distance from Austin: About 30 minutes east

Lockhart, TX

Lockhart is another great day trip from Austin for anyone who loves BBQ! The must do things in Lockhart, TX are:

• Black’s BBQ
• Smitty’s BBQ
• Caldwell County Courthouse + Jail Museum
• Lockhart State Park

Distance from Austin: About 30 minutes southeast

Day Trips From Austin That Are 30 - 45 Minutes Away

Lake travis, tx.

I absolutely love spending the day out at Lake Travis. Rent a boat and spend the day at the lake or check out The Oasis on Lake Travis  – an iconic restaurant with an amazing view! 

Distance from Austin: About 40 minutes away

Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley

A hidden gem near Wimberley, Blue Hole Regional Park is just a short drive South of Austin and a great place to spend the day!

View this post on Instagram Found paradise in Wimberly, TX today💚 #bluehole #visittexas #gltlove A post shared by Chelsea Bancroft | ATX (@onechelofanadventure) on Aug 21, 2017 at 3:49pm PDT

Distance from Austin: About 45 minutes

Hamilton Pool

Hamilton Pool is a beautiful natural pool located just outside of Austin. As they are trying to preserve it, you now have to reserve a spot ahead of time. Reservations are $11 online ahead of time, and then $15 per vehicle when you arrive — CASH ONLY. For tips on visiting Hamilton Pool, click here .

To schedule a reservation,  visit their website . 

Distance: About 45 minutes west of Austin

Float the River

If you haven’t floated the river, you can’t really call yourself a true Texan 😉 There are three rivers in the area you can float…

San Marcos River

The San Marcos river is popular with Austinites since it’s the closest, only about 40 minutes away. There are several tube rental companies:

• Don’s Fish Camp
• Texas State Tubes
• Lions Club Tube Rental

Comal River

The Comal River is a very popular float because it’s only 3 miles long and usually has a lot of shade. There are several tube rental companies:

• Rockin’ R
• Texas Tubes
• Comal Tubes

Distance from Austin: About 50 minutes south

Guadalupe River

The Guadaupe River is arguably the most popular river tubing spot in Texas! With two-hour, three-hour, or six-hour float options, this river will take you all through Central Texas! These are just a few of the companies that offer tube rentals:

• River Sport Tubes

Cypress Valley Canopy Tours

Cypress Valley Canopy Tours  offers awesome zip lining tours that includes 5 ziplines, 2 sky bridges, and a rappel and lasts from 90 minutes to two hours. (photo below from their Facebook)

Distance from Austin: about 40 minutes northwest

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Day Trips From Austin That Are 1-Hour Away

Krause springs.

Krause Springs is a camping and swimming hole about 30 miles northwest of Austin. It’s a perfect day trip for a hot summer day! Below photo by Brian P. Barnes .

Distance from Austin: about 50 minutes west

New Braunfels

Located about an hour South of Austin, New Braunfels is a great day trip for families and friends alike! There are tons of things to do, here are just a few favorites:

• Schlitterbahn
• Natural Bridge Caverns
• Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Distance from Austin: About 50 minutes

A historic district in New Braunfels, Gruene , has lots of great things to do on a day trip:

• Gruene Hall
• The Grapevine Winery
• Gristmill River Restaurant
• Fickle Pickle Antiques and Pickles
• Gruene Olive Tasting Menu

Jacob’s Well near Wimberley

Jacob’s Well Natural Area is a great swimming hole in the Hill Country that’s worth the drive from Austin. This artesian spring releases thousands of gallons of water a day! For tips on visiting Jacob’s Well, click here .

Distance from Austin: about 50 minutes 

Marble Falls

Marble Falls is a cute small town located about an hour outside of Austin. Situated on Lake Marble Falls, there are plenty of outdoor activities to partake in:

• Hidden Falls Adventure Park
• Longhorn Cavern State Park
• Sweet Berry Farm

Distance from Austin: about 1-hour northwest

Day Trips From Austin That Are Less Than 2 Hours Away

Enchanted rock.

Enchanted Rock is a great choice for anyone looking for an outdoorsy day trip from Austin — there are over 11 miles of trails! You do have to pay an entrance fee and can make a reservation online beforehand. 

Distance from Austin: 1 hour and 45 minutes west

Round Top, TX

If you’re into shopping, Round Top, TX is the day trip for you! From antiques to handcrafted goods, there are tons of shopping options to choose from. 

Also See:   Round Top, TX Visitor’s Guide: Best Things to Do + See

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chelsea | Travel Blogger (@onechelofanadventure)

Distance from Austin: 1 hour and 20 minutes west

Canyon Lake

Canyon Lake is another great day trip destination from Austin! Rent a boat and spend the day relaxing on the water.

View this post on Instagram Beautiful morning with an even more beautiful view. Heading out on the boat today -- follow along on my story☺️ #canyonlake #texasforever #visittexas A post shared by Chelsea Bancroft | ATX (@onechelofanadventure) on Aug 19, 2017 at 6:12am PDT

Distance from Austin: 1 hour and 20 minutes southwest

Magnolia Market in Waco, TX

Made famous by the HGTC show “Fixer Upper,” Magnolia Market in Waco, TX makes for a great girls day trip idea from Austin! Photo below is from their Facebook page .

Distance from Austin: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is a super popular day trip destination! There is so much history in this small town, and tons of things to do:

• Outdoor Activities
• Museums and Historical Sites
• Breweries and Wineries

Distance from Austin:  1 hour and 30 minutes

You May Also Like: 5 Texas Hill Country Weekend Road Trip Ideas

Spoetzl Brewery in Shiner, Texas

If you’re a fan of Shiner Beer, take a day trip down to Shiner, Texas and tour the Spoetzl Brewery! For more information on tours, visit their website . 

Distance from Austin: 1 hour and 30 minutes southeast

Made famous by Willie Nelson, some say Luckenbach is the heart and soul of Texas. Located right outside of Fredericksburg, the Luckenbach Texas General Store , Bar and Dancehall is a must visit!  Photo below by Gino on flickr . 

Distance from Austin: about an hour and a half southwest of Austin

Happy day tripping! What are your favorite day trips from Austin? Let me know in the comments or send me a DM on Instagram !

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Round Top, TX Guide: Best Things to Do + What to Eat + Where to Stay

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18 thoughts on “ best day trips from austin, tx ”.

Great post 😁

Thank you 😊😊

The food looks awesome! Thanks for sharing. Stay safe. Greetings from London.

Thank you so much! Hope you are staying safe as well!

Quick edit. It’s Lockhart, not Lockheart 🙂

Whoops! Good catch, thank you!!

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10 Best Day Trips from Austin (90 Minutes or Less!)

My 10 favorite austin day trips with recommendations to help plan your next weekend getaway..

Before I moved to Texas, I had only visited Austin. And now, three years after moving here, I still have so much left of this state to explore. I’d say I’ve only seen about a quarter of what this state has to offer.

That isn’t for lack of trying! We’ve done a lot of weekend and day trips around Texas.

We frequently have long weekends in West Texas , as well as the Dallas-Fort Worth area. In 2019 I even went on a nine-day, 54 brewery road trip through north and east Texas.

But that’s not what I’m here to share…

Fun Day Trips From Austin and Central Texas

In this guide, I want to share with you all my favorite day trips around Austin (and San Antonio too!). I’ve listed ten places, and a few of them are still on my list to visit. You’ll get my recommendations along with what’s next on my travel list.

Below, you’ll find a handy dandy map with all ten of my central Texas day trips listed. If you’re up for it, print this bad boy out and put it on your wall to do the whole throw-a-dart-and-go-wherever-it-lands thing.

All ten of these Austin day trips are unique, small towns less than 90 minutes away from downtown Austin. And I’d like to point out that many of these towns, such as Marble Falls , Fredericksburg, or New Braunfels are best enjoyed with more time such as an overnighter or weekend trip.

But that’s up to you to decide! So for now, let’s get into my recommendations and tips for the best day trips around Austin and Hill Country.

Southwest, 35min from Downtown Austin, by car 

• What to Expect on a Guided Brewery Tour Through Austin
• Staying at Jester King Brewery’s Cabins Near Austin, Tx [Review]
• The Rodeo’s in Town! Guide to Rodeo Austin 2019

I love Driftwood. Literally everything about it screams Hill Country. If you need a quick escape from the city, come out to Driftwood and soak up the serene quietness. Whatever you need to unwind, you’ll find it in Driftwood. Below are my favorite stops.

READ THIS: 9 Breweries in Texas Hill Country Totally Worth the Drive

Things to Do in Driftwood

• Marvel at the massive and stunning architecture of the Radha Madhav Dham Hindu Temple . Keep an eye out for the free-roaming peacocks!
• Explore and enjoy local made beer at Vista Brewing, sotol at Desert Door distilling, Stinson Distillery for Texas brand, or try out the wine at Dutchman Family Winery.
• After you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Salt Lick BBQ to indulge in heavenly Texas smoked meats. Tip : stop at an ATM first, Salt Lick BBQ is cash only! (They’re also BYOB!)
• Every Thursday through Sunday, Mercer Street Dancehall hosts local musicians for a night spent two-stepping with locals. Head here on Saturdays if you need a dance lesson !
• Stop by the Hays County Store for classic Texas eats, happy hour cocktails, and local craft beer. Come on a Wednesday, Thursday, or Sunday for live music!

Dripping Springs

South, 50min from Downtown Austin, by car 

Dripping Springs is the land of the plenty when it comes to Texas craft beer booze. Goodness, there is so much to do (ok, mostly drink) in Dripping Springs. And every bit is delicious. Probably thanks to all of that clean and tasty Texas Hill Country water, LBR.

Some of the original central Texas makers and brewers have been out here, doing their thing for ages. However, there are consistently new breweries/distilleries/wineries/cideries popping up. It’s like a choose-your-own route type of adventure every time I come out here. But for now, below are my picks for your day trip to Dripping Springs.

READ THIS: Drink the Day Away in Beautiful Dripping Springs, Texas

Things to Do in Dripping Springs

• On your way out to Dripping Springs, stop at Jester King to drink farmhouse ales, Revolution Spirits for gin [my favorite], Argus for cider. (Two more of my favorite breweries that are actually in Dripping Springs include Twisted X and Family Business Beer .)
• Treaty Oak Distilling is my top recommendation. Dog and family-friendly, they have something for everyone at their gorgeous Texas hill country ranch. Stop at Alice’s Restaurant, if you’re feeling at all a bit hungry.
• Make reservations to visit Hamilton Pool Preserve, a natural pool that was created when an underground river collapsed thousands of years ago due to massive erosion.

Georgetown 

North, 35min from Downtown Austin, by car 

Just a jump, hop, and a skip north of Austin, is one of the most pleasant small towns in central Texas: Georgetown. Known for having the “ Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas “, this is an easy and even family-friendly Austin day trip.

Click here to check out my full guide to Georgetown, Texas.

Things to Do in Georgetown

• Explore Georgetown’s Downtown Historic District, known as the c which includes local shops and restaurants.
• Looking to do some swimming? In Georgetown there are swimming options: swim in Blue Hole Park , which also includes picnic tables and walking trails. Or head out to Lake Georgetown for a proper lake day
• Hidden for 10000 years, Georgetown’s Inner Space Caverns are one of the best-preserved caves in Texas, and one of the few places where prehistoric remains are found.
• Stop by Mesquite Creek Outfitters to sip on local beer and wine while you do some shopping for outdoor gear and other Texan goods.
• Gaze at the moon, stars, and planets through a research-quality telescope during free public viewing nights at the Fountainwood Observatory .

Fredericksburg 

Southwest, 1hr20min from Downtown Austin, by car 

Wine, wine, and more wine! There are more than 30 wineries and tasting rooms in Fredericksburg. In fact, one road alone ( Wine Road 290 ) is home to 18 award-winning wineries! Which means there is a little something for every wino on this Hill Country day trip.

Click here to check out my full guide to Fredericksburg, Texas.

Things to Do in Fredericksburg

• Of course, visit wineries! Here are some of my favorites: Barons Creek Vineyards, Becker Vineyards, Fat Ass Ranch and Winery, and Pedernales Cellars.
• Or if you’re more into craft beer like me head to the German-inspired Altstadt Brewery for a delicious cold lager or three and pub fare with mega Old World vibes.
• Hike up Enchanted Rock, and you’ll find yourself 1,825 feet. You’ll get a view of Hill Country that goes on for miles and miles. In case you have a doubt about how to choose gear for those types of activities to check this link .
• Pick your own bouquet of Texas wildflowers at Wildseed Farms , the largest working wildflower farm in the country.
• Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy upscale traditional German fare using local ingredients at Otto’s German Bistro .

Southeast, 50min from Downtown Austin, by car 

Lockhart is officially known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas. You can’t go wrong with any of the four options in this small town of 13,000. Just a short drive southeast from Austin, it’s the perfect Texas day trip for BBQ lovers.

Things to do in Lockhart

• Visit Dr. Eugene Clark Library , the oldest operating library in Texas.
• Eat in the barbecue capital of Texas at one or all of these spots (just to get you started!): The Original Black’s Barbecue, Kreuz Market, and Smitty’s Market.
• Stop for a drink or two at The Pearl Bar built in1896, just off the historic courthouse square.

Marble Falls 

West, 1hr10min from Downtown Austin, by car 

Marble Falls is the perfect little Hill Country town to plan your next day trip or overnight escape. The drive is short, but it’s insane how much the scenery changes in just an hour. Just one of the many incredible things about central Texas.

READ THIS: Breweries to Visit and Things to Do in Marble Falls

Things to Do in Marble Falls

• Marble Falls has three breweries all in close proximity together. My favorites are Bear King Brewing and Save the World . If you’re a Belgian beer fan, you can’t skip the latter.
• This town is incredible for vintage shopping daytrippers. There are plenty of stores are the way into town and a few more once you arrive to Marble Falls.
• If you’re looking for a quick drive to take non-Texans, head to Marble Falls . It’s short, includes lots of scenery, and there’s a cute little town at the end of the route.

New Braunfels 

South, 60min from Downtown Austin, by car

New Braunfels is one of the most authentic German-American communities in the country. This small Central Texas town is a fun destination, with adventures for every type of visitor. Located between Austin and San Antonio, it’s an easy day trip for those coming from either city.

READ THIS: The Complete New Braunfels Travel Guide

Things to Do in New Braunfels

• New Braunfels has two rivers: the Comal and the Guadalupe. The Comal is “the longest shortest river in the world,” so it’s a short float. The Guadalupe, on the other hand, is the party river and floats can last up to six hours!
• Krause’s Cafe is a great place to start in New Braunfels. There’s an incredible selection of German beer mixed in with local favorites and pub grub.
• Bakeries and Breweries are my favorite places to stop in any town, and 2 Tarts is the cutest one in New Braunfels!
• Soak up the German vibes up at Alpine Haus . This place will make you think you’ve traveled to Germany. There’s classic German dishes and German beer served by an intimidating bartender with a heavy accent.

North, 50min from Downtown Austin, by car 

Salado has all you need for a fun afternoon day trip from Austin, possibly even a weekend trip. With historic lodging, bed & breakfast, plentiful shopping, dining and only a short drive up I35, this charming town should be next on your day trip list.

Click here to check out my full guide to Salado, Texas.

Things to Do in Salado

• Visit (or stay at!) the historic Stagecoach Inn for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
• Visit Salado Glassworks or Ro Shaw Clay Studio for classes and locally made art pieces.
• A must stop is Barrow Brewing Company . Grab a beer and head down to the water to dip your toes in Salado Creek.
• Cool off in the water either in town at Salado Creek, or 10 miles away at Chalk Ridge Falls Park.
• End the afternoon with live music at Johnny’s Outback.

South, 45min from Downtown Austin, by car 

San Marcos is has a friendly, college-town vibe with plenty of shops and restaurants. Plus, a sizeable weekend farmer’s market! Side note : this town is one of my favorites on this list.

Things to Do in San Marcos

• On Saturdays, head to the San Marcos Farmers’ Market to shop all of the local eats and goods.
• Grab your tube, and float the day away on the San Marcos River .
• Eat your fill of kolaches at Dos Gatos Bakery.
• Re-fuel with a stop at one, or a few, of the many local breweries in San Marcos. Our favorites include Middleton Brewing, Aquabrew, and Roughhouse.
• Once you’re done at Middleton Brewing, head across the street to Silo Glass and shop pieces from glassblowers, potters, and other local artists.

Southwest, 55min from Downtown Austin, by car

Tucked away in the gorgeous hills of Texas Hill Country is a town full of swimming holes, wine, and enchanting parks. Wimberley sits on prime Hill Country terrain where Cypress Creek meets the Blanco River. It’s home to towering cypress trees and Texas wildflowers.

Click here to check out my full guide to Wimberley, Texas.

Things to do in Wimberley

• 12 feet wide, and 120 feet deep… Jacob’s Well in Wimberley is a natural spring with clear water and a 10-15 foot ledges to jump off of. Not for the faint of heart! Learn more about tickets and reservations here .
• Swim in the crystal blue waters at Blue Hole Regional Park.
• Sip on Tiki drinks and more rum cocktails at Cypress Creek Reserve Rum Distillery.
• Eat locally sourced, seasonal American menu served in a modern, indoor-outdoor setting at Wimberley’s The Leaning Pear .
• My tip? For the drive, take FM 32 from Wimberley towards Blanco and drive across the “Devil’s Backbone” on Edwards Plateau for some amazing Texas views.

Ready to start planning your day trip to Austin?

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Founder and owner of Big World, Small Girl: an Austin, Texas-based beer and travel blog that covers everything from brewery interviews to international travel. I've been featured in Bloomberg, Untappd, Good Beer Hunting, and most recently as one of UPROXX's Top Beer Influencers to Follow on Instagram.

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The Top 14 Day Trips From Austin

From incredible swimming holes and state parks to delightful small towns to buzzy breweries and wineries, there's no shortage of fun day trips in the Austin area. Whether you're itching to get out of the city or you simply want to soak up everything the surrounding Hill Country has to offer, these are the best places to check out.

Wimberley: Swimming Holes and a Quaint Hill Country Town

In quaint Wimberley, you’ll find two of the best swimming holes in Texas: Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole. Fed by the Trinity Aquifer, Jacob’s Well is an artesian spring that releases thousands of gallons of ice-cold water each day. It’s also the second-biggest underwater cave in Texas and the deepest part of the cave system is nearly 140 feet deep.

A stunning feature inside the lush, 126-acre Blue Hole Regional Park, Blue Hole is an iconic swimming spot. Think century-old cypress trees, rope swings, and yes, crystal-clear, blue-tinted water swirling through limestone.

After enjoying the swimming holes, be sure to check out Wimberley afterward—this sweet little Hill Country town is chock-full of antique shops, galleries selling local artwork, kitschy souvenir shops, comfort food cafes, and wine tasting rooms. If you can’t get reservations for Blue Hole or Jacob’s Well, nearby Cypress Creek is a good alternative.) 

Getting There: Wimberley is roughly an hour from Austin and best accessible by car.

Travel Tip: For both Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole, reservations are required and only a certain number of visitors are allowed at a time. Especially in the summertime, you’ll want to book as far in advance as possible (at least a few weeks out). 

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge: Hiking and Birding Galore

Matthewrutledge / Public Domain

For the outdoorsy-minded, Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent spot for hiking and bird-watching. Balcones Canyonlands is a wildlife habitat in Marble Falls, roughly an hour from Austin, and is home to endangered songbirds like the golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo. There are over 7 miles of trails to enjoy here, which take you through the “greatest hits'' of Hill Country hiking: wildflower-dotted prairie land, old-growth trees, rolling hills, and panoramic vistas.

Getting There: Balcones Canyonlands makes for an easy day trip from Austin, as it's just an hour away by car.

Travel Tip: While some wildlife refuges allow dogs, Balcones Canyonlands does not.

Hamilton Pool Preserve: Awe-Inspiring Natural Beauty

About 40 minutes outside of Austin, paradise awaits in the form of a pristine, lagoon-like grotto that’s definitely not your average swimming hole. A beautiful, moss- and fern-covered pool flanked by a 50-foot natural waterfall, Hamilton Pool Preserve offers a truly scenic spot to cool off. Be sure to walk along the slippery rock and stand underneath the waterfall that’s fed by Hamilton Creek and never completely dries up.

Getting There: Go by car so that you can continue exploring the area after your visit to the preserve (it's about an hour's drive from Austin).

Travel Tip: Definitely make advance reservations before you go.

Gruene: Home of the Oldest Dance Hall in Texas

In nearby New Braunfels, historic Gruene is as old-school charming as it gets. Stroll around the town’s city center, stay at the Gruene Mansion Inn, and enjoy dinner at the famed Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar , with its lovely views of the Guadalupe River. Then, spend the evening two-stepping or enjoying a show at the historic Gruene Hall, the oldest continually running dance hall in Texas. The outdoor beer garden here is open daily, and it makes for a great spot to sip a Lone Star and enjoy the music.

Getting There: Gruene is a little over an hour away and best accessible by car.

Travel Tip: Schedule your visit around seeing a show at Gruene Hall.

Guadalupe River State Park: Experience a Classic Texas River

If you’ve never floated lazily down a Texas river on an inflatable tube, with waterproof radios blasting and cans of rosé flowing like water, then it’s time to remedy that. At Guadalupe River State Park, float the day away underneath towering cypress trees and along clear, intoxicating waters, and watch all your cares dissipate like smoke. Though most people do come here to float, as well as swim and fish, there are 13 hiking trails that feature lovely views of the valley and the river.

Getting There: The park is a couple of hours away from the city limits.

Travel Tip: The Guadalupe is definitely a party scene, but if you want more of a chill experience, plan to float during the week or before 10 a.m. on weekends.

Driftwood Estate Winery: Vino With a View

Courtesy of Driftwood Estate Winery

Hill Country is replete with wineries and while many have picturesque views and tasty wines, none compare to Driftwood Estate Winery. At this picture-perfect winery, visitors can enjoy a “Pick Six” wine tasting and a meal from the on-site Driftwood Bistro. Entrees (like the ribeye quesadilla and croque monsieur) are hearty and Texas-ified, though there are salads and cheese plates to pick from, too. But it's the location—high atop a bluff, overlooking the sunny vineyard below—that truly sets Driftwood apart.

Getting There: It's a 45-minute drive down Highway 290 and Ranch Road 12 to Driftwood.

Travel Tip: Time your visit for sunset when the views are at their absolute best.

Sisterdale: A Hill Country Hidden-Gem

Renelibrary / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

More laid-back (and off-the-beaten-path) than other, more touristy towns in Hill Country, Sisterdale is technically an unincorporated farming community. There's no bank or gas station but what the community lacks in modern-day conveniences, it makes up for in natural beauty, outdoor activities, wine, and unique goods. The Sisterdale General Store is a hub for wine tours and tube and kayak rentals (alongside handmade leather items); the Marlowe Candle Company sells hand-mixed and poured candles; and, Sister Creek Vineyards is a must-visit for wine lovers.

Getting There: Reserve at least two hours to driving to Sisterdale and make sure you have a full tank of gas before you leave

Travel Tip: Swim at nearby James Kiehl Park, a small, serene park on the Guadalupe River.

Driftwood: Boozy Delights in Beautiful Settings

Courtesy of Desert Door Distillery

For a booze-fueled daytime adventure just outside of Austin, plan to visit Desert Door Distillery and Vista Brewing , both of which are located within ten minutes of each other in Driftwood. Start your day at Desert Door, where you can sample sotol, a bright, earthy spirit distilled from the wild-harvested sotol plant. Then, you could easily spend hours underneath the giant oak and elm trees at Vista Brewing, sipping craft brews and nibbling on farm-fresh snacks. (Driftwood Estate Winery, is also within an easy ten-minute drive of both of these locations, although trying to do all three in one day might be a stretch.)

Getting There: By car, it takes just over 30 minutes to reach both destinations.

Travel Tip: At Desert Door, hit up the Eden West food truck, where a few of the menu options incorporate sotol.

San Antonio: See an Iconic Texas City

Just a short day trip away from Austin's city limits, San Antonio is home to a slew of awesome cultural attractions and museums, historic landmarks, and a noteworthy food scene. Stroll along the colorful River Walk, or hike or bike along the Mission Reach Trail, which connects the five Spanish colonial missions, including the Alamo. Make sure to visit the ultra-hip Pearl District, where there are a number of great restaurants to choose from (and the weekend farmer's market is bustling).

Getting There: From Austin, San Antonio is about an hour-and-a-half to two hours away, depending on traffic and what part of the city you're coming from.

Travel Tip: Check out the Botanical Garden and the King William/Southtown district, rather than only dwelling in super-touristy areas.

Inks Lake State Park: Swim, Cliff-Jump, Sunbathe, Repeat

One of the best parks for swimming in the area, Inks Lake State Park is a popular spot for cliff-jumping, swimming, floating, and sunbathing the day away. An easy drive from Austin, the aquatic possibilities are endless at this pretty park, with its rocky outcroppings, tall cliffs, and cool waters.

Getting There: The park is an hour and 45 minutes away by car.

Travel Tip: You'll definitely want to get here as early as possible, especially during the summer when the park is packed by noon.

Krause Springs: Lush Beauty and Spring-Fed Pools

Krause Springs offers natural beauty in the form of emerald-green foliage and cold, clear water tumbling down a steep bluff into the pools below. Owned by the Krause family for over 50 years, this natural site has a total of 32 springs on the property, spread out across 115 acres. There are several manmade pools and one natural pool that flows into Lake Travis, although the main attraction is the waterfall area of the natural pool. If you want to spend the night, there are primitive camping sites and 24 RV sites with water and electricity. You can make reservations for RV camping, but the primitive camping sites are first-come, first-served.

Getting There: Krause Springs is located about 30 minutes northwest of Austin.

Travel Tip: The park always hits capacity quickly; go as early as possible to ensure that you get in.

Jester King Brewery & Pedernales Falls: Sour Brews and Waterfalls

Jester King Brewery boasts a homey, inviting atmosphere in a truly gorgeous setting: think golden-lit fields and huge live oak trees shading an old farmhouse, plus plenty of picnic tables, cornhole games, and more than 60 draft options, including the brewery's own spritzy sours. For the perfect Hill Country day, combine an afternoon of eating and drinking at Jester King with a morning spent hiking at Pedernales Falls (pictured here).

Getting There: It's about 30 to 45 minutes west of the city, by car.

Travel Tip: Don't skip on the mouthwateringly good woodfired pizza.

Cypress Valley: Zipline in an Old-Growth Forest

Courtesy of Cypress Valley

Cypress Valley is nestled in an old-growth cypress forest 30 miles outside of Austin with some trees that tower more than 100 feet in the air! Visitors to Cypress Valley have the opportunity to see the ancient trees up close on a canopy tour. The tour includes five zip lines, two sky bridges, and a rappel from the last platform. If you please, you can spend the night here in one of five treetop bungalows sitting at least 30 feet above the ground. Ziplining through giant cypress trees by day and staying in a luxury treehouse by night? Yes, please.

Getting There: Travel by car to Cypress Valley, an hour-long drive from Austin.

Travel Tip: Book well in advance.

Fredericksburg: A Historic German Town

Peter Tsai Photography / Getty Images

Head to Fredericksburg for kitschy souvenir shops, small-town Texan charm, delicious German food, and, of course, delicious German beer. Located less than two hours from Austin, this 19th-century German settlement is brimming with historic charm and fun things to do. Aside from the usual tourist-trap shops, there are plenty of antique stores, museums, vintage shops, wine tasting rooms, and beer gardens that are worth checking out.

Getting There: Fredericksburg is about an hour and 45 minutes west of Austin.

Travel Tip: Be sure to visit the nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, where an otherworldly-looking giant pink granite dome juts out of the earth, drawing hikers from all over the state.

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20 Fun and Easy Day Trips From Austin

Austin is consistently named one of the  best cities in Texas  to visit.  I mean, it is the “hipster” cool city of Texas.  There are truly so many  things to do in Austin  that you could easily stay busy for weeks. 

If you’re like us though, after a few days in the big city, we are ready for a break. To accomplish this, we head for one of the small towns in The Lone Star State.

Austin is in a prime location for some of the best day trips .  Sitting on the edge of the Texas Hill Country means that you have several awesome locations perfect for day trips within a few hours of Austin .

When the need to get out of the city arises, grab your  road trip essentials  and head out to explore this list of great  day trips from Austin.  

The surrounding area is perfect for a day trip or two.  For it is in this area that you will find some amazing  small Texas towns , outstanding Texas wineries, and some awesome state parks which are great  camping spots near Austin !

So let’s dive in and see all of the fabulous things there are to do on a day trip from Austin!

*This post contains affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you. That Texas Couple is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Day Trips from Austin

If you are looking for a charming small Texas Hill Country town that has plenty to do on your day trip from Austin, then you need to check out all of the  things to do in Wimberley, TX . 

Wimberley is located just 45 minutes from Austin, making it one of the easiest day trips from Austin, TX that there is!

This little community packs a big punch.  The town square boasts lots of cute boutique shops, art galleries , and some fun restaurants .

We love quaint towns that offer so much variety, especially when that variety includes wineries, good food, and lots of outdoor activities. 

Not only that, but Wimberley also offers loads of unique accommodations, making it one of the best day trips and one of our  romantic getaways in Texas  also!

Read Next: 40+ Free Things To Do In Austin

Things to do in Wimberley, TX

On your day trip, cool off on a hot summer day by visiting the natural pool that is Jacob’s Well .  This awesome site is part of the Jacob’s Well Natural Area and is one of the best swimming holes in The Lone Star State as the water is a cool 68-degrees! 

Be sure you make a reservation as Jacob’s Well is really popular and they limit capacity.

Another awesome swimming hole to cool off in while visiting the Texas Hill Country is the natural pool, Blue Hole Regional Park .  Here, the cypress trees shade the beautiful spring-fed waters of this popular swimming hole allowing you to beat the heat and have some protection from the sun.

Blue Hole Regional Park itself is over 126-acres and has restrooms, parking, and nice spots for a picnic lunch.  Like Jacob’s Well, this swimming hole fills up fast, so be sure to make a reservation .

Sip some wine during your day trip at Wimberley Valley Winery.  One of our favorite Texas wineries, Wimberley Valley Winery not only has some great wines for you to enjoy, but their outdoor areas are amazing. 

They have a great deck area complete with giant Jenga and fountains for you to enjoy.  If you would rather have a quiet spot to yourself, then just choose one of the many areas around their property where they have spread out tables and Adirondack chairs.

Spend the day visiting one of the many art galleries in Wimberley.  Wimberley prides itself on being an artistic community.   It is apparent throughout the town.  Take some time to enjoy the many art galleries.

Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth? Wimberly is one of the day trip ideas perfect for that!  Then head to Sugar Shack bakery.  Here you will find an incredible array of baked goods sure to please.

Wimberley also comes alive during the holiday season and is a great place to spend Christmas in Texas .

Pedernales Falls State Park

The Lone Star State is full of so many great state parks in the Texas Hill Country, and Pedernales Falls is no exception to this.  Located just 30 miles west of Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park is one of the best day trips from Austin, TX.

The cascading water that flows over the natural limestone in this area brings visitors from all over to enjoy this beautiful Texas gem.  Here you can enjoy soaking in the cool river water after spending time hiking on the many trails of the park.

Pedernales Falls State Park is one of the best Austin day trips for outdoor lovers and a fun day out in nature.

Canyon Lake

The town of Canyon Lake proudly proclaims that it is the “ Water Recreation Capital of Texas ” and a short drive from Austin.  I assume that is because this Texas Hill Country town area offers visitors so many opportunities to enjoy outdoor and water-related activities while visiting.  That’s easy when the lake itself covers over 8,200-acres!

Canyon Lake is also one of the deepest lakes in The Lone Star State and is well stocked with fish.  Here you can enjoy the family-friendly parks offering camping, glamping , and picnic areas before heading out for a day on the water, or time on the hiking trails.

This is a great day trip from Austin for people who love lake recreation!

Things to do in Canyon Lake, TX

Tubing makes for the perfect day trip from Austin activity!  If you are so inclined, you can even use this area as a starting point to go tubing down the Guadalupe River , a favorite summer activity in Texas.

Does skiing or boat riding top your list of day trip ideas?  If so, then consider Canyon Lake! Canyon Lake is a fabulous Texas Hill Country lake to just have some good old fun in the sun.  Bring (or rent) a boat for the day and enjoy skiing, tubing, or just sightseeing during your day trip.

Birdwatch !  Canyon Lake is home to a variety of sea birds, making it a great place to do some bird watching.

For a fun day, go fishing !  As we said above, Canyon Lake is well stocked with fish. There is an abundance of bass and catfish that call Canyon Lake home.

A day trip from Austin to Gruene will make you feel like you have stepped back in time.  Boasting the oldest continually running dance hall in Texas , Gruene Hall, this small town is big on charm.  We love strolling around the city center and historic district taking in all of the fun shops before grabbing dinner at the famous Gristmill Restaurant.

Honestly, the small town of Gruene is so relaxing and laid back, I could spend tons of time here! This little town is perfect for an Austin day trip!

Things to do in Gruene

Shopping in the town center of Gruene is one of the highlights of a visit here and should be on your day trip itinerary.  We love the charming county stores and the one-of-a-kind items that you can find here.

Learn to two-step at Gruene Hall.  A visit to Gruene is not complete until you have spent an evening kicking up your heels in Gruene Hall while listening to live music.  Built in the early 19th century, this Texas dance hall has hosted singers from far and wide.  We love that the hall hasn’t changed much since its inception. I mean, Willie Nelson has played here!

You have to float the river if you are visiting in the summer.  Floating the river in this area is a tradition for Texans.  We look for any way possible to beat the heat and have a good time!

New Braunfels

Another great day trip from Austin is New Braunfels.  This little German tow n is a fun destination that is an easy getaway from Austin.

Most Texans find their way to New Braunfels to float the rivers that cut through this Texas Hill Country town.  For you see, it is New Braunfels that boasts both the Guadalupe and Comal River . 

Don’t worry though, if you aren’t visiting in the summer, New Braunfels still tops our list of fun Austin day trips!

Things to do in New Braunfels, TX

Consider checking out these things to do in New Braunfels during your time at this day trip destination:

Float the river .  As we mentioned above, both the Guadalupe and the Comal Rivers flow through New Braunfels.  If you are looking for a short float, then you definitely want the Comal.  This is a great introduction to river floating.  If you are in the mood for more time on the river, then the Guadalupe is for you!

Drink and eat at the many German establishments in town during your day trip.  We especially love visiting Guadalupe Brewing Company.  Get their Chocolate Pecan Stout if it is available–trust us!

Get wet at Schlitterbahn Water Park .  This is a HUGE attraction for Texans during the summer.  The water park encompasses over 70-acres and uses the spring-fed river water to help cool you off while visiting the park.

See a drive-in movie.  Yep, it’s true, New Braunfels has a drive-in movie theatre.  Here you can pull in, tune in your radio, and enjoy a movie from the comfort of your own car!

Located right off Interstate 35, and a short drive from Austin is the town of Salado. Salado is a charming artistic community nestled near Salado Creek.  This one-of-a-kind Texas Hill Country town has such a unique history and is the perfect place for a day trip.

Loaded with fun bed and breakfasts, restaurants, and loads of artistic charm, Salado will feel make you feel like you are worlds away from the big city. This is one of the easy trips from Austin, Texas.

Things to do in Salado, TX

Check out the historic Stagecoach Inn at this day trip destination.  Even if you don’t spend a night here, it is still a great place to tour and learn about.  The original Inn was built in 1861 and was part of the Chisholm Trail .  You can also eat a meal here in their restaurant!

Check out the local art scene while on your day trip.  Salado prides itself on being an artistic community and this is apparent at every turn.  Why not take time to talk to some local artists and learn about their craft.  One of our favorite spots to do this is at the glass blowing studio in town.

Visit one of the many wineries or breweries during your Austin getaway.

McKinney Falls State Park

One of the shortest and best day trips that you can take from Austin, TX is to the family-friendly state park, McKinney Falls State Park. 

Located just 13 miles from the state’s capital, McKinney Falls State Park will make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Here you can camp, hike, fish, picnic, or just enjoy being in the great outdoors.  Of course, you can also cool off from the Texas heat by swimming in Onion Creek during your visit to McKinney Falls.  (Are you sensing a theme here with Austin day trips that have water associated with them in the summer?  LOL!)

You can fish in either Onion or Williamson Creeks and get this, you don’t need a license to fish from the shore in a Texas state park.  BONUS!

Johnson City

Located about an hour west of Austin, Johnson City is a great little day trip from Austin.  Visitors here can immerse themselves in history, art, and Texas wine!

Named after the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson, this small town is home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.  Here you can learn all about LBJ and visit his boyhood home before heading out to his ranch located 14 miles west on Highway (Wine Road) 290. 

When you have had your fill of history, then spend some time exploring the other great things to do here.

This is one of the top Austin day trips for history lovers.

Things to do in Johnson City, TX

Believe it or not, there are actually several things to do in Johnson City, TX.  Here are some of our favorites:

Explore the LBJ Ranch while on your Austin day trip to Johnson City.  This self-guided drive-through tour of the ranch is a wonderful glimpse into history.  During your time here, you can see the ranch home of the former President as well as experience the still working cattle ranch.

Get hands-on at The Science Mill.  Located near the town square, the Science Mill is a great museum that is filled with hands-on exhibits to engage kids and adults in STEM concepts.

Enjoy one of the many restaurants, wineries, and breweries in the area while at this day trip destination.  We love Texas Hills Vineyards, be sure to check out their many award-winning wines!

Plan your Austin day trip from late November to early January to enjoy the Lights Spectacular!

Another one of the best day trips from Austin, TX is to visit the charming town of Driftwood.  In our opinion, Driftwood is the definition of Hill Country town and one of the unique trips from Austin, Texas.

You can enjoy great food, breweries, and wineries while in Driftwood, making it the ideal place to come and unwind a little!

Things to do in Driftwood, TX

For such a small town, there really are so many things to do in Driftwood, Texas!  Check out some of our favorites:

You have to visit Salt Lick BBQ while on your Austin day trip to Driftwood, TX!  Known far and wide for the amazing smoked meats that they produce, Salt Lick is known far and wide for their mouth-watering bbq. Trus us, you won’t be disappointed with a trip to Salt Lick.  Please note that Salt Lick BBQ only accepts cash, so come with some money.

Visit Jester King Brewing.  Known for their great brews and ciders, Jester King is a fun, quirky place to hang out.  They have gorgeous outdoor views and even a goat or two that you can play with!

Visit the wineries .  There are several great wineries in and around Driftwood.  One of our favorites is Duchman Family Winery.  They have great wines, an amazing restaurant, and a beautiful outdoor area!

Learn to dance at Mercer Street Dancehall for a fun day outing!

Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is a fun day trip from Austin for nature lovers paradise.  Here you can camp, fish, take a cave tour, or enjoy hiking and biking trails on over 5,300-acres.

Some of the most popular hikes in the park include Spicewood Springs, Gormon Falls , and the river hike.  Spicewood Springs is a gorgeous trail that takes you along the edge of the water to enjoy the creek, the gorgeous views from the canyon, and the falls that are spread by Spicewood Springs.

If you want to feel like you have truly been transported out of Texas on your Austin day trip, then hit the hiking trails to Gormon Falls.  This 3-mile round trip hike is over rocky terrain and can get really hot in the summer, but the reward when you reach the falls is well worth it.  You will think you are standing in front of a waterfall in the tropics!

You can also go on a caving adventure while in Colorado Bend State Park.  For this outing, a guide will lead you through the caves that are in this area.  This is a fun experience for the adventurous at heart!

Colorado Bend State Park consistently tops our list of the best Austin day trips!

Fredericksburg

The charming German town of Fredericksburg is one of the favorite and best day trips from Austin, TX.  While there are truly so many  things to do in Fredericksburg, TX , it is most popular for its WINE !!

With new wineries popping up daily (it feels like at least), it is hard to keep track of all of the  Fredericksburg, TX wineries !  Don’t worry though, if you aren’t into wine, Fredericksburg also offers a great historic district, fun shopping, and yummy restaurants, making it an easy day trip for everyone!

Things to do in Fredericksburg, TX

Visit the many wineries during your day trip to Fredericksburg, TX.  Just drive down Highway 290 and take your pick, they are everywhere.  Some of our favorites include Becker Vineyards, Grape Creek Vineyards, Fat Ass Ranch, and Fiesta Winery.

Taste all things peach.  Fredericksburg is also famous for the peaches that are grown in this area.  Head to Das Peach House to sample some delicious delicacies created with these yummy peaches.

Learn some history and German heritage while here.  The Fredericksburg Pioneer Museum will allow you to see how the founders of this area lived.  This museum houses 11 historic buildings that guests can tour for a glimpse back in time.  Another great museum to visit is the Pacific War Museum.  Here you can learn all about the Pacific War and Admiral Nimitz, a leader in the battles of WWII, who was from Fredericksburg.

Check out the lavender fields at Becker Vineyards.

Go shopping .  There are so many great little boutique shops to visit in Fredericksburg.  You can spend the day not only exploring the shops on Main Street but also all around the town!

If you are looking for a cute little town to get away to, then why not consider a day trip from Austin to the “ Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas ”?  Well, Georgetown is the place just for that as that is exactly what they are known for.

Lined with cute shops and fun restaurants, the Georgetown Downtown Historic District might be just what you need to fill your day.  If shopping isn’t your thing, don’t worry, there are plenty of outdoor activities in this area as well.

Georgetown is one of the historic trips from Austin, Texas.

Things to do in Georgetown, TX

Spend the day exploring the historic downtown area during your day trip to Georgetown.  Shop at all of the great shops and grab some lunch at the restaurant of your choice.

Explore the Inner Space Caverns.

Cool off in one of the many swimming holes including Blue Hole Park and Lake Georgetown.

Luckenbach may be tiny, but it is definitely one of the most unique little towns in Texas, making it a must on your list of the best day trips from Austin.

Located just outside of Fredericksburg, Luckenbach is a true Texas legend of a town.  Seriously, there is even a Waylon Jennings song written about it!  Here you can grab a cold drink, attend a music concert, and just enjoy a little piece of true Texas history.

Luckenbach is one of the unique Austin, Texas day trips and a great place to check out some live music!

Looking for a day trip from Austin that is all about food? Considered the barbeque capital of Texas , Lockhart will not disappoint if you are looking for some great smoked meat to sink your teeth into!  Sitting between Austin and San Antonio, this small town is big on hospitality.

Here visitors can enjoy some incredible Texas BBQ, take in a little history, and enjoy some quirky fun while visiting.

Things to do in Lockhart, TX

Sink your teeth into some great barbecue.  Of course, there are several places in town to do this, but if this is your first visit to Lockhart, then you have to eat at Kreuz Market.  Kreuz Market has been serving up authentic Texas barbeque since 1900!

Explore some of the unique stores during your day trip to Lockhart.  One particular to note is Manny Gammage’s Texas Hatters. Manny Gammage has been creating hats for celebrities and politicians for years!  I mean they made a hat for Willie Nelson and Ronald Regan, that alone is reason to visit!

Visit Lockhart State Park .  Lockhart State Park is unique in the fact that it has a 9-hole golf course on site.  You can also enjoy picnic areas, hiking, fishing, and swimming on this Austin day trip.

San Antonio

Ok, this day trip isn’t necessarily an escape from the “big city” as San Antonio is a big city also, but it still makes for a great day trip from Austin!

San Antonio is truly unlike any other city in Texas.  Combine the awesome River Walk with the history and charm of all  San Antonio’s Missions  and you have the makings for a great outing. Honestly, there are so many  free things to do in San Antonio  that you could make several day trips here and never spend a dime!

Things to do in San Antonio, TX

Tour the San Antonio Mission Trail and see all of the great missions that helped to build this area of Texas during your San Antonio day trip.  Of course, The Alamo is the most famous, but there are so many other missions in this area that are worth exploring also.

People watch on the San Antonio River Walk.  The River Walk is great for so many reasons (especially the River Walk at Christmas ).  I mean, it is such a cool environment lined with great restaurants and fun shops.  One of our favorite things to do is to grab a balcony seat at one of the many restaurants on the River Walk and watch the people go by below!

Eat some Mexican food!  We love so many restaurants in San Antonio, but one that we visit EVERY time is Nichas.  Located across the street from Mission San Jose, Nichas is authentic Mexican food that is well worth your time.  I recommend the puffy tacos and/or the cheese enchiladas served with their amazing house gravy!

Do some s hopping in Market Square or the Pearl Brewery district before visiting one of the many museums in San Antonio during your Austin, TX day trip!

If you love to be out in nature, then Boerne is a great day trip from Austin for you.  Located just outside of San Antonio, Boerne is a fun little town for those looking to escape city life (even if only for a little while).

There is a little something for everyone when it comes to things to do in Boerne.  You can enjoy shopping, restaurants, live music, nature trails, and caves when you visit this small Texas town!

Things to do in Boerne, TX

Shop on the Hill Country Mile, Boerne’s Main Street.  Here you will find eclectic art galleries, boutique shops, and quaint cafes just waiting to welcome you.

Visit the Cibolo Nature Center while on your day trip to Boerne.  This natural area has picnic areas and trails for you to enjoy and explore.

Enjoy one of the many wineries or breweries in this area. Visit the Cave Without a Name or Cascade Caverns.

Enchanted Rock State Park

Located by Fredericksburg, TX, Enchanted Rock State Park is a great day trip from Austin if you enjoy hiking.

Enchanted Rock is a giant granite dome rock that welcomes hikers to come and explore year-round.  Hiking isn’t the only thing to do at Enchanted Rock though. 

Visitors are welcome to camp, picnic, geocache, and stargaze at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.  It is important that you need to make reservations as Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is very popular and fills up fast!

Guadalupe River State Park

Another popular state park that is on our list of day trips is Guadalupe River State Park.  Guadalupe River State Park is most popular for people who want to spend the day tubing or swimming, but there are many other things to do here also.

Visitors can enjoy the numerous hiking/biking trails, picnic facilities, geocache, and camp within the park.  Of course, the river is still the main draw.  While on the river you can fish, tube, canoe, and swim!

Marble Falls

If you mention Marble Falls while visiting Texas, most people will tell smile big and tell you about the pie shop in town!  And while it is true, the Bluebonnet Cafe is a huge draw for visitors, there are other things to do in Marble Falls as well.

This little Hill Country town offers fun boutique shops, some great galleries, wineries, and of course, the lake!

Things to do in Marble Falls, TX

• Head to the adult playground that is Hidden Falls Adventure Park while in Marble Falls.  This 2700 acre park is a mecca for ATVs, jeeps, and dirt bikes.  Oh, and not to worry if you don’t have one, they will rent you one!
• Eat pie (and whatever else, but definitely pie) at Blue Bonnet Cafe during your day trip to Marble Falls.
• Find a great swimming hole at the lake to cool off from the Texas heat.
• Check out the cute shops and art galleries around Marble Falls.
• If you are here in the spring, enjoy seeing the bluebonnets in Texas !

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Austin

Well, there you have it, our recommendations for great day trips from Austin.  Of course, this list isn’t all-inclusive, but hopefully, we have shown you that there are so many fabulous day trips in the Texas Hill Country. Hopefully, these day trip ideas have inspired you to get out and explore the fabulous small towns surrounding this area of The Lone Star State.

Like this post?  Please Pin It or share to your favorite social media!

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Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight:

We love using CheapOAir, Kayak, and Kiwi to search for the best flight prices. We love using these search engines because they search the web for airlines worldwide to ensure you get the best deal! In addition to flights, you can also find great hotel prices on Kayak and Kiwi.

Book Your Vacation Package:

If you want to book an entire vacation package, we suggest using Expedia. We love how easy Expedia is to use, and we always find good deals on entire vacation packages on their site.

Another great site for vacation packages is BookVIP . BookVIP offers super cheap vacation packages to incredible destinations. You are sure to save money using their site!

For full guided vacations, including hotels, some meals, transportation, and guides, then we book with Trafalgar. Trafalgar is a trusted tour company that will meet all your needs while ensuring a great experience.

Trip.com allows you to book flights, hotels, train tickets, rental cars, airport transfers, tours, and more all on one site. Owned by the parent company that also owns Skyscanner, this is a trusted resource for travel booking and a great “one-stop shop.”

Book Your Accommodations:

We always begin our search by checking out honest reviews on TripAdvisor hotels. This allows us to narrow our search for specific properties once we are ready to book. Of course, you can also book directly on the TripAdvisor site!

There are several accommodation sites that we like to use. One of our favorites is Booking.com because it offers a wide variety of hotels and guesthouses at a good price.

Another “go-to” hotel booking site for us is Hotels.com . We love their loyalty program that allows you to earn free nights, and their “secret prices” for members are fabulous deals!

HotelsCombined is another cool site. They allow you to compare all the top travel sites with one search to ensure you find the best deal out there. Kayak works in this way as well.

If you want a luxurious all-inclusive vacation, consider checking out the Sandals/Beaches properties. Sandals properties are for couples only and Beaches are for families. We have visited Sandals in the past and absolutely love the attention to detail and the service they provide.

Tour Companies We Trust:

We love taking guided tours when visiting new places. Our go-to tour companies are Viator.com and Get Your Guide . Both of these companies have been in business for years and provide excellent customer service. You can trust booking tours from their sites for sure!

For a guided city tour, check out City Sightseeing and BigBus Tours . These bus tours are so much fun and easy to hop on and hop off at top attractions in cities around the world.

CityPass is a great way to save money when visiting large cities. CityPass allows you to get free admission to major attractions once you buy their pass. The savings add up quickly with this pass, often saving 50% with combined admissions.

Another great pass to save money in larger cities is the Sightseeing Pass . This pass allows you to save valuable time and money by combining admissions to major attractions. They also have a handy app that keeps everything you need at your fingertips.

Looking to Save Time and Money?

Check out our resource page for all of our favorite vendors. These companies help us to save time and money on our travels!

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About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through creative content creation and her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel and accompanying social media accounts.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Sunday 6th of September 2020

Just moved to ATX and this was just what I was looking for!

thattexascouple

That's so awesome. I hope you enjoy living in Austin :)

Sunday 19th of July 2020

I love the Enchanted Rock and Fredericksburg area - but you've given me so many more places to check out next time I'm there! Thank you :)

Oh yay! That makes me so happy to hear!

I love Austin and also love finding hidden gems on day trips. Pinning for future reference!

Awesome! Thank you so much!

Saturday 18th of July 2020

I was supposed to come to Texas for the State Fair but sadly with everything going on that won't be possible. Already excited to make plans for next year though and this post is really helpful. Thanks!

I am so sorry to hear that. We love the State Fair. I hope that you get to come after all of this is over.

This is great!!! We aren’t too far in Louisiana and that would be great trips for our family! Thanks!

Oh yay! This would be so much fun for you guys!

15 Best Day Trips from Austin TX

• Austin / In the City / Outdoors / Texas / USA

Looking for a quick getaway from Austin? Don’t miss these spots!

We love the  city of Austin  with all its quirks, swimming holes, and  yummy food , but next time we visit, we want to venture out and take more day trips from Austin.

There is a wealth of experiences a short drive away. You can learn American and Texas history, explore cultural gems and outdoor adventures, all of which will make you fall in love with the Lone Star State.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: October 23, 2023

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• Best Day Trips from Austin TX
• More Austin Day Trips Under 3 Hours
• Map of the Best Day Trips from Austin

Where to Stay in Austin

Planning checklist, more resources, 1. mckinney falls state park.

5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744,  map

Distance:  10.1 mi / 19 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Onion Creek, Homestead Trail What to Eat:   Franklin Barbecue ,  Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill ,  Patrizi’s

While McKinney Falls State Park is technically within Austin, it will make you feel like you’re miles away from the city. Seeing Onion Creek spill over the limestone cliffs will make you appreciate nature. You can take it easy and relax by the falls, have a picnic, and or play in the water to feel like a kid again.

There are 9 miles of trails to enjoy, including the Homestead Trail which mixes remnants of the past with nature, which can keep you busy all day.

See More: Ultimate Austin Bucket List – 101 Things to do in Austin TX

2. Lake Travis

30.4636507,-98.2047276,  map

Distance:  18.4 mi / 31 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Briarcliff Marina, Windy Point Park, Pace Bend Park What to Eat:  Oasis Texas Company ,  Green Mango ,  Napa Flats Wood Fired Kitchen

When it’s too hot in Austin, you can cool down with the locals at Lake Travis. It’s the largest lake in the region and made for water lovers. Stop by the Briarcliff Marina to rent a boat, and a fun day on the water awaits as you sail along the 63 miles of the lake. With its immense size, you can always find a quiet spot on the lake away from the crowds.

The lake can be appreciated on land, too. Windy Point Park is the perfect place to enjoy the river views with a picnic, and the limestone cliffs of Pace Bend Park offer lovely views and several spots for cliff jumping. Oasis is also a popular spot to eat with a gorgeous view.

3. Dripping Springs

509 W Mercer St, Dripping Springs, TX 78620,  map

Distance:  23.4 mi / 35 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Hamilton Pool, Reimers Ranch, Texas Hill Country Olive Company What to Eat:   Crepe Crazy ,  The Salt Lick BBQ ,  SP Brazilian Steakhouse

Cool down in the tranquil turquoise waters of Hamilton Pool. The postcard-perfect falls spilling over limestone cliffs with the collapsed grotto creates a magical world that you won’t want to leave.

If you love the outdoors, Reimers Ranch is nearby and a popular spot for rock climbers to climb on magnificent limestone cliffs along the Pedernales River. There are also fantastic hiking opportunities, including the Upper River Trail.

Want an escape to Tuscany? You’ll feel as if you’re transported to the famed Italian region when you visit the Texas Hill Country Olive Company. Here you can also learn how they make olive oil and enjoy olive oil tastings. The area around Dripping Springs offers other types of tastings as well with its distilleries and wineries.

See More: 49 Best Places to Eat in Austin TX

4. Wimberly, TX

14100 FM2325, Wimberley, TX 78676,  map

Distance:  36.9 mi / 48 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Jacob’s Well, Blue Hole Regional Park, Boot Trail What to Eat:  Hays City Store ,  Mima’s Kitchen ,  Kate’s Place

If you love swimming holes, Wimberly is perfect for you. You’ll find stunning turquoise waters at both Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole Regional Park. Even though it was packed, we loved the swimming hole at Jacob’s Well. We even took turns cliff jumping. Blue Hole has swings for jumping into the water.

If you’re in town, be sure to pick up a map and hunt down the 30 colorfully decorated boots by local artists. They are hard to miss!

5. Pedernales Falls State Park

2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636,  map

Distance:  41.8 mi / 1hr 1 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Waterfalls, Hiking Trails, Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Park What to Eat:   Tillie’s ,  Lady Bird Lane Café ,  Fat Boy Burgers

You can sample everything that the outdoors has to offer at Pedernales Falls State Park. You can lay on the rocks and watch the waterfalls cascade down limestone slabs or cool off with a swim.

The park has some great hiking trails. The easy Twin Falls Nature Trail provides a wonderful lookout over the main falls. If you want more of a challenge, go around Tobacco and Wolf Mountains and visit Arrowhead Pool on the Wolf Mountain Trail (6 miles).

Lyndon B. Johnson State Park is also a short drive away, where the 36th US president was born and raised. Not only can you learn about his life, but see what Texas farm life was like and also see the bison and longhorn cattle.

Note: You can swim in the river, but swimming is not allowed near Pedernales Falls since flash flooding is common.

See More: 17 Free Things to do in Austin Texas

6. New Braunfels / Gruene

237, I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130,  map

Distance:  46 mi / 54 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Natural Bridges Cavern, Landa Park, Guadalupe River, Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theater What to Eat:   Alpine Haus Restaurant ,  Muck & Fuss ,  Spud Ranch

Marvel at the beauty of Mother Earth’s underground sculptures at Natural Bridges Cavern. Then have a picnic, swim, or paddleboat at Landa Park along the banks of the Comal River. On hot days, you can also cool off tubing down the Guadalupe River at the Gristmill.

Nearby, a walk through the quaint town of Gruene feels like a simpler time with antique stores and restaurants throughout. Then end your day vintage style by enjoying a movie on the big screen from the comfort of your car at the Stars and Stripes Drive-In Theater (weekends only).

7. Marble Falls

100 Ave G, Marble Falls, TX 78654,  map

Distance:  47.3 mi / 1hr 1 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Johnson Park, Lakeside Park, Dan Pogue Sculpture Gallery What to Eat:  The Real New Orleans Style Restaurant ,  Wingman Brothers ,  Blue Bonnet Cafe

Rent a bike or take a stroll along the Backbone Creek Trail in Johnson Park and be on the lookout for local wildlife. Enjoy water activities like swimming, kayaking, paddling, and fishing at Lake Marble Falls or relax at Lakeside Park.

Afterward, view the fantastic art sculptures of world-renowned artist, Dan Pogue, and then treat yourself to the famous pies at the Blue Bonnet Café.

Local Tip: People love visiting Marble Falls during bluebonnet season, which is from March until mid-April, generally peaking in April.

8. Longhorn Cavern State Park

6211 Park Road 4 S, Burnet, TX 78611,  map

Distance:  65.9 mi / 1hr 19 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Longhorn Cavern, Nature Trails, Observation Tower What to Eat:   Unshakeable Grounds ,  Mama’s Home Cooking ,  Bills Burgers Wings & Things

The slow and steady hands of nature sculpted the Longhorn Cavern over thousands of years. Though only a short cavern, on the cavern tour, maybe you’ll be the lucky one to find $2 million in treasure said to be buried there by the outlaw Sam Bass.

Above ground, a series of short nature trails start from the visitor center, including the Backbone Ridge Nature Trail and Karst Discovery Trail. For a bird’s eye view of the Hill County, go to the historic observation tower.

9. San Antonio, TX

317 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205,  map

Distance:  79.7 mi / 1hr 25 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  River Walk, The Alamo, San Antonio Missions, Market Square What to Eat:   Gino’s Deli Stop n Buy ,  Pollos Asados Los Norteños ,  Leon Valley Cafe

There’s so much to do and experience in San Antonio, but with its laid-back vibe, you won’t ever feel rushed. The famed Riverwalk is the crown jewel of the city. Enjoy the views, window shopping, and enticing smells from the many cafes as you stroll along the San Antonio River.

Do you know the  real story of the Alamo ? Visit this historical site and put yourself in the shoes of the men who fought here against the Mexican army. Then continue your historical journey by touring the five missions of San Antonio. If you don’t have time to see them all, you should not miss the missions San Jose and Concepción.

Finish your day browsing the endless stalls at the historic Market Square with the largest Mexican market in the US, and try to resist the culinary temptations found in the Pearl District.

10. Guadalupe River State Park

3350 Park Rd 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070,  map

Distance:  83.4 mi / 1hr 42 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Guadalupe River, Hiking Trails What to Eat:  Gennaro’s Trattoria ,  Bare Bull BBQ ,  The Branch Neighborhood Grill

Guadalupe River State Park features 4 miles of shoreline along this scenic river. Swimming, fishing, tubing, and kayaking are just some of the ways to enjoy this slice of happiness as you listen to the melodic sound of the river.

If you love to hike, there are 13 miles of trails at Guadalupe. Standouts include The Painted Bunted Trail and the short Barred Owl Trail with a scenic overlook of the river.

11. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624,  map

Distance:  96.2 mi / 1hr 44 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Pink Granite Dome, Loop Trail, Moss Lake What to Eat:   Sunset Grill ,  Otto’s ,  Woerner Warehouse

Legend surrounds the immense pink granite dome of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. The rock itself covers 640 acres and is currently known as the largest pink granite batholiths uncovered in the US. It has inspired many stories from the Tonkawa Indians, including ghost fires and frightening creaking and groaning sounds. Let us know if you see any strange activity!

You can explore the park via the 11 miles of hiking trails or check out the  classic rock climbing routes . Relax by Moss Lake or hike the 5-mile loop trail around the entire park to get away from the crowds.

12. Colorado Bend State Park

2236 Park Hill Dr, Bend, TX 76824,  map

Distance:  99.5 mi / 1hr 57 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Colorado River, Gorman Falls, Cave Tour What to Eat:  Young’s BBQ & More ,  Eve’s Café

The Colorado River provides a wealth of activities to pass a lovely day at Colorado Bend State Park. You can also hike or bike 35 miles of trail, most notably a 3-mile trail will take you to the base of the stunning Gorman Falls, a living waterfall that keeps growing as time passes.

If you don’t mind getting dirt on your clothes, sign up for a cave tour with only your  headlamp  to light the way! Are you brave enough?

13. Waco, TX

106 Texas Ranger Trail, Waco, TX 76706,  map

Distance:  102 mi / 1hr 40 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Magnolia Market, Waco Mammoth National Monument, Waco Riverwalk What to Eat:   Moroso Wood Fired Pizzeria ,  Taqueria El Crucero

If you love home renovation, you can have your own Fixer Upper experience at the Magnolia Market. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add a special something to their home décor. Afterward, reward yourself with some tasty baked goods at Silos Baking Co.

Relive fantasies from your childhood at Waco Mammoth National Monument as you see the remains of Wooly Mammoths that once roamed the Earth. Then walk along the Waco Riverwalk that follows the Brazos River and enjoy the view of Waco’s many bridges.

14. Houston, TX

1302 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77002,  map

Distance:  165 mi / 2 hr 36 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Space Center Houston, Museum District, Downtown What to Eat:   Yoyo’s Hot Dog ,  Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse ,  Luna Pizzeria

“ Houston, we have a problem. ” Remember those famous words? Now you can visit mission control, step inside full-size replicas of space shuttles and stations, and see where astronauts train.

History, culture, art, and science all come together in Houston’s Museum District. 19 museums reside in this area, and 11 of them are free to enter. If you didn’t get enough steps in your day at all the museums, you can continue touring downtown Houston, which is full of colorful street art and vintage shops.

15. Fort Worth, TX

508 Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76102,  map

Distance:  189 mi / 2hr 58 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Stockyards, Kimball Art Museum, Botanic Gardens What to Eat:   Velvet Taco ,  Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken ,  Campfire Grill Texas Kitchen

You can’t escape the character of Texas as you meander through the historic Stockyards. Enjoy the unique offerings in the many shops as well as all the entertainment offered, including rodeos.

Not only are the works of art worth a visit to the Kimball Art Museum, but the museum itself is an architectural gem. Get lost in the sprawling diversity of gardens at the Botanic Gardens, especially the magnificent Japanese Gardens. Then finish off the day soaking your feet in the Fort Worth Water Gardens downtown.

Map of Best Day Trips from Austin

More Day Trips from Austin Under 3 Hours

• Johnson City ( 47.8 mi / 1 hour,  map )
• Canyon Lake ( 64.6 mi / 1 hr 25 min,  map )
• La Grange ( 65.5 mi / 1 hr 5 min,  map )
• Luckenbach ( 72.2 mi / 1 hr 25 min,  map )
• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Austin hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Austin travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Texas Travel Guide
• 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: San Antonio and Austin
• Austin Pocket Travel Guide

How many of these day trips from Austin have you done? Any day trips we’re missing?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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Home » North America » USA » Texas » 12 Fun Day Trips from Austin

12 Fun Day Trips from Austin

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: November 17, 2022

With swimming spots, breweries, live music, and more, there are tons of things to do in Austin . But the capital is only one of the fun places to go in central Texas. To see a side of the Lone Star State outside of the big city, check out these day trips from Austin.

Dripping Springs

35 minutes west

Just a half-hour from Austin is the little town of Dripping Springs, Texas , which is certainly worth a stop. Cute Mercer Street in its small downtown is lined with boutiques, a couple of breweries, and spots for live music. A few miles away, Mercer Street Dance Hall has shows every weekend, or you can stop by just to have a drink on their porch.

In addition, you can get a hint of Tuscany at the Texas Hill Country Olive Oil Company or try one of the many local distilleries . Treaty Oak Distilling offers whiskeys and gins as well as an on-site restaurant, Frog Pond offers drinks with a view, or stop by Deep Eddy Distillery to try the fruit vodkas they’re well-known for.

35 minutes southwest

Driftwood is a great quick road trip destination for eating and drinking in the Hill Country.

One of the top places for barbecue in Texas, The Salt Lick has tender brisket, flavorful sausage, and one of the most photographed BBQ pits around. This BYOB has indoor and outdoor family-style seating, and there’s a winery right next door to pick up a beverage. If you’re looking for something beyond barbecue, check out Hays City Store & Ice House , which serves Texas comfort food along with craft cocktails and 50+ beers on tap.

There are also lots of options for distilleries and wineries to hang out at for an afternoon. Duchman Family Winery uses 100% Texas grapes for their broad selection of varietals, and Driftwood Estate Winery is a perfect spot for commanding views of the hills. For spirits, stop by Stinson Distilling or Desert Door , which makes a tequila-like spirit from the West Texas sotol plant.

35 minutes south

Barbecue, barbecue, and more barbecue. That’s why people take a day trip from Austin to Lockhart. After all, it is officially known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas.

A road trip to Lockhart takes you to the doorstep of four fabulous barbecue spots – Kreuz Market , Smitty’s Market , Black’s Barbecue , and Chisholm Trail BBQ . Their expertise has been honed over decades, so whether you’re choosing ribs, turkey, or classic brisket, it will be a winner.

Don’t expect anything fancy (or even forks, in some cases), but you’ll walk away happy and full.

50 minutes southwest

Charming Wimberley offers lots to do —fabulous restaurants, shopping, art, and some of the best swimming holes in Texas—all wrapped in small-town hospitality.

The small downtown offers lots to see. Grab coffee from Sip! on the Square and browse the shops. Stop into Dos Olivos Market to sample wine from around the Hill Country, see the towering cypress trees in Cypress Creek, and have dinner at Longleaf Craft Kitchen , which uses seasonal local ingredients in its enticing menu.

If it’s hot, head to one of the local swimming spots—Jacob’s Well or Blue Hole Regional Park . For something completely different, check out a glassblowing demonstration at Wimberley Glassworks where you can see bowls, vases, and other creations come to life in brilliant color.

New Braunfels

1 hour southwest

New Braunfels is well-known for being a city that’s all about the water. Schlitterbahn water park has been one of the top places to go in Texas in the summer since I was growing up, and its popularity endures. There are lots of places to float the river (either the Comal or the Guadalupe), including from Prince Solms Park, which is adjacent to Schlitterbahn.

German influences are clear all over town from the street art depicting historic scenes to places like Krause’s Biergarten and Café , which is decked out in flags and decorations from the different regions of Germany.

Don’t miss the Gruene historic district which boasts buildings from the 1800s and the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas. Make a beeline to the Gristmill for a delicious dinner in an unexpected setting.

Marble Falls

1 hour northwest

On the banks of Lake Marble Falls, the small town of Marble Falls has a lot to offer. Its downtown area is several square blocks filled with dozen of shops, restaurants, and even an outpost of Fiesta Winery . There are also three breweries within just a few miles of each other.

One of the town’s main attractions is Sweet Berry Farm . If you’re visiting from spring to fall, they have lots of seasonal pick-your-own options ranging from strawberries to sunflowers, but the whole place is full of entertainment. Grab some ice cream, do some sand art, and stop by to see the goats.

Turkey Bend Recreation Area is a great place to get outside during all seasons, but it’s particularly beautiful when it’s filled with wildflowers in April. Even if it’s not time to see bluebonnets in person, don’t miss stopping at Bluebonnet Café for a piece of their famous pie.

Johnson City

1 hour 10 minutes west

For history, wine, and unique attractions, Johnson City fits the bill for top places to visit near Austin.

Founded by the cousin of Lyndon B. Johnson, 36 th President of the United States, Johnson City is still home to buildings constructed by the family in the 1800s and other artifacts of the early pioneers. Visitors can also tour the boyhood home of the president and see sites related to his early life as part of the Johnson National Historical Park. More sites, including the Texas White House, are 10 miles down the road in Stonewall.

Downtown Johnson City has shops and cafes and other places to eat, including Pecan Street Brewing , a local favorite that brews all its beers on site. If you’re visiting with kids, don’t miss the Science Mill , a children’s science museum that’s full of interactive exhibits about fossils, energy, robotics, and other engaging topics. Nearby, a castle winery, Pedernales Falls State Park, and some unusual roadside attractions round out the offerings. It’s also a great spot to visit at Christmas when its brilliant light display shines so brightly that it can be seen from space.

1 hour 20 minutes east

Round Top is the place to go for antiques. Check out the antique fairs or some of the other shops and warehouses along Highway 237. If new (but vintage-looking) things are more your style, don’t miss Junk Gypsy of HGTV fame. There’s lots of furniture, jewelry, and country-themed decorations in this fun shop. For more options, stroll through the galleries and shops at Henkel Square Market .

When you’re shopped out, visit the super-popular Royers Round Top Café for a filling lunch or dinner. If you’re just in the mood for their famous pie and can’t wait for a table, head to the cute sister restaurant Royers Pie Haven nearby.

Schulenberg

1 hour 20 minutes southeast

The tiny town of Schulenberg is home to some of the most unique churches in Texas. Visiting several of them makes for an interesting day trip and an experience you’re unlikely to get anywhere else. These churches—known as the painted churches—are unassuming on the outside but remarkable works of art on the inside.

Most of the artwork on the Schulenberg painted churches dates back a century or more to the traditions of the Czech and German immigrants who settled the area. These European families wanted to create decorative churches in their new land that looked like those they were used to at home. With the help of stenciling, marbling, bright colors, and lots of trompe l’oeil techniques, the artworks came to life.

From the dusty rose interior of St. John the Baptist to the bright blue ceiling of Saints Cyril and Methodius, there are so many details to see. In addition to the swirls of ivy and shocks of pink, the churches also have intricate European-style stained glass and life-sized statues throughout the sanctuaries. You can make your own tour or take an official one with the chamber of commerce.

Fredericksburg

1 hour 30 minutes west

Fredericksburg is, undoubtedly, our favorite small town in Texas. It’s a great candidate for a day trip, but a weekend trip from Austin would be even better. Although it has just 10,000 residents, there are lots of fun things to keep you busy in the lively town.

Founded by German settlers, Fredericksburg has a culture that you might not expect in the heart of Texas. This German town is packed with dozens of wineries and several breweries , and it has a cute downtown shopping area filled with boutiques and art galleries.

Nature lovers will enjoy the wildflower gardens at Wildseed Farm, and if you’re visiting during wildflower season, don’t miss the bluebonnets on the Willow City loop just a few miles north of town. There are also historic sites dating to the days of the pioneers and the world-class National Museum of the Pacific War . With lots of places to eat and drink plus frequent live music, Fredericksburg makes for a perfect day trip.

Immortalized in the Waylon Jennings song of the same name, Luckenbach, Texas , is an unusual site you shouldn’t miss if you have time. This tiny town (2 buildings and a few performance stages), which famously only has a population of three is the place to go for country music. Its welcoming, down-home atmosphere makes it a place we love.

Along with food, drinks, and its well-known dance hall, Luckenbach has music nearly every day of the year. There are informal performances and jams as well as concerts from the biggest names in country. Its fun and sometimes quirky festivals like the annual “hug in” contribute to the unique environment.

1 hour 40 minutes east

Brenham, Texas, is synonymous with Blue Bell ice cream , a summer (or any season, really) staple in Texas. Blue Bell’s headquarters is open for visiting, and you can sample the wares at their scoop shop where all the delicious flavors are only $1.

In downtown Brenham , there are beer gardens, art galleries, and live music venues. The buildings are decked out in murals not typical of small Texas towns, and the great food and welcoming vibe will entice you to stay for awhile. Check out Brazos Valley Brewing Company for brews and stop by Truth Barbecue for top-notch brisket and ribs.

For an afternoon of family fun, head to The Yard , an informal baseball venue where anyone can play (and indulge in concession-style snacks!). They host a homerun derby every Friday and lots of other events and competitions.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Everything's bigger in Texas: The 9 best road trips to take from Austin

I think we can all agree there's never been a better year to take a classic road trip.

With the threat of COVID-19 persisting across the globe , and face masks coupled with social distancing the norm for disease prevention, driving to a destination in a private vehicle is one of the most effective ways to enjoy a safe, comfortable vacation right now.

Interested in more travel tips? Sign up for our daily newsletter .

For people who live in big cities with functional public transportation systems , finding and dusting off your driver's license may be the first step of your road trip. But for many travelers across the United States, cars are often an integral part of daily life already, which makes hitting the road for a getaway that much easier.

Related: My safe, socially distanced Kimpton staycation in Austin, Texas

If you're looking for activities to keep you busy on weekends, here are some of my favorite road trips from Austin, Texas, organized by distance, as well as some suggestions for what to do when you get there.

Note that, in 2020, it's imperative to check websites and social media updates beforehand to ensure that your destination is open and accepting visitors at the time you arrive. Many state parks and public areas require passes beforehand or impose a strict limit on the number of guests allowed at any given time, even during normal circumstances .

Offer from ShermansTravel: RV rentals from Texas, $89+

There's an old saying that "everything is bigger in Texas," and what counts as a commute for a Texan may well qualify as a road trip in other states. From Conroe to Freeport, Katy to Baytown, the greater Houston area spans more than 100 miles north to south and over 50 miles east to west. The Dallas/Fort Worth metropolis isn't much smaller, especially as suburban sprawl continues to spread, and San Antonio has expanded significantly as well in recent years.

Check out our guide for more road trip inspiration.

Big cities mean wide highways and fast speed limits: The 41-mile stretch of Texas Highway 130, just east of Austin, boasts a speed limit of 85 miles per hour — the fastest legal limit in the country.

Miles Away podcast: Escape the winter blues in sunny Austin, Texas

My hometown of Austin still retains vestiges of its small-town vibe, although locals already whisper about a future where Austin and San Antonio could morph into one giant megacity. And Austin is notorious for its daily traffic jams, at least during normal times: I've noticed that "rush hour" is really more of a three-hour ordeal, twice a day, between 7:30 to 10 a.m. and anywhere from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the afternoons and evenings.

But there's so much to see in Texas beyond its major metropolitan areas. So, if you're looking to ditch the hustle and bustle of big-city life, try any of these getaways for a day trip or a weekend escape.

For barbecue, the outdoors and small-town vibes

For many people, Buda, 15 miles south of Austin, is just a stopping place along the way to San Marcos and San Antonio — or these days, it could even be considered a super-south suburb of Austin, given the high cost of living within the city and the relatively affordable home prices in Buda. But this little town is more than just an extension of its northern sister. The motto is "breathe easy here," and Buda, pronounced BYOO-dah, will help you do just that.

Antique hunters will love the downtown shops full of rare, exciting and vintage collectibles at old-timey prices. Shoppers of another ilk will enjoy the massive Cabela's located right along Highway I-35, which is large enough to boast an entire street named in its honor. And despite Buda's relatively small size, don't underestimate either its culture or its voice: You can find karaoke, old-school arcade games, a soda fountain, delectable salsa and more within its 6 square miles.

The next time you find yourself crawling through traffic on Interstate 35, craving a spontaneous escape, just say no. Instead, hit your nearest exit and head east, toward Lockhart . Located just 25 minutes southeast of the Austin airport (AUS) and 33 miles east of the city, this small town is famous for barbecue. Back in the day, one family owned the spot in town … and then a family feud split them up into warring restaurants. Bad news for their family reunions; amazing for everyone who likes good smoke.

But there's a lot more to Lockhart than just smoked meats. This " little city with a big heart ," as the town slogan goes, retains much of its wild cowboy roots and will show you an entirely different perspective on Texas, especially compared to Austin. Check out the Jail Museum for its take on Norman castellated architecture (a popular style for jails during the time period it was built in the mid-1800s). Golfers can look out on the rugged Texas scenery while enjoying a round of golf at the Lockhart State Park Golf Course , which also has an on-site swimming pool, campsite and fishing hole.

For beautiful scenery and cool water

When you think of a relaxing vacation near water , Texas may not be the first place that comes to mind. But the Central Texas "Hill Country" region in particular is peppered with a number of watering holes, lakes, rivers and creeks that help soothe the intensity of the summer heat, as well as hikes and trails galore.

Within city limits, you have the ever-popular Barton Springs, Bull Creek and Shoal Creek and their associated greenbelts, as well as Lady Bird Lake (formerly known as Town Lake). But if you're looking for something a bit more off of the beaten path, head out a little farther into the Texas countryside to explore these alternative options.

Float down the San Marcos, Comal or Guadalupe rivers

If you've never been to Central Texas, I cannot state this strongly enough: Our summers get hot . Don't come to visit or stay without being well-prepared for this aspect of reality. That being said, we have powerful air conditioning and relaxing outdoor activities — and floating down a gentle river, cold beverage of choice in hand, is a popular summer pastime.

When your friend says, "let's go float the river this weekend," make sure you clarify which river you plan to meet at, and even which rental spot you're eyeing. That's because there actually are three major rivers popular for floating in this area all roughly 30 to 40 miles south of Austin

There's the spring-fed San Marcos , which is located in the eponymous town of San Marcos exactly halfway between Austin and San Antonio, where the extensive outlet malls are well worth a visit for some fun travel gear after you're done floating; the short, spring-fed Comal , located in New Braunfels a little south of San Marcos; and the Guadalupe .

If you've never gone tubing before, here's what to expect: You'll be sitting in a giant inflatable tube, with all of your friends, and you'll want to bring your own beverages. Many float rental places offer string you can use to tie your floats together into a large raft, and you might want to get an extra tube for your cooler of drinks to rest on. You'll start upstream at the rental facility's dock, float down to a certain stopping point, and then the facility will bus you back to your starting point.

Krause Springs

Located about 45 minutes (35 miles) west of Austin, Krause Springs is a gorgeous, forested park and campsite with 32 natural springs, watering hole, trails, pools and a small waterfall. Perfect for a quick, easy day trip or a weekend getaway, you can pack a picnic lunch and some towels and spend the afternoon alternating between the cool, refreshing dips into the spring, and sunning yourself on the large rocks facing the watering hole.

Jacob's Well

Jacob's Well Natural Area (about 35 miles southeast of Austin) surrounds an artesian spring that maintains a natural temperature of 68 degrees year-round. The hiking trails are free and open to the public , but swimming is only permitted between May 1 and Oct. 1 each year, and you'll need to make reservations beforehand if you want to get in the water. You can also hike here, but the underwater caves can be dangerous, and are accessible only to licensed professionals.

Other amazing places to cool off in the summertime are Blue Hole and Hamilton Pool , both of which require reservations in advance as well. Blue Hole reopened on Aug. 12 after closing down due to COVID-19, while Hamilton Pool remains closed.

Enchanted Rock

Enchanted Rock is an iconic monolith near Austin, about 95 miles to the west. A natural mound of pink granite with a very distinctive shape, there are a lot of outdoorsy ways to explore this spot. We recommend coming here in the fall for a hike, but because it's a state park, it may be subject to coronavirus restrictions.

For antiques, drinks and local flair

Fredericksburg.

Fredericksburg (just under 80 miles west of Austin) and the surrounding regions are at the heart of Central Texas wine country. Located just about a 1.5-hour drive from Austin, and recently called the " Texas version of Aspen " by Texas Monthly, this area is particularly beautiful in the springtime, with gorgeous wildflowers erupting from the otherwise green landscape. You can either drive out on your own, or opt for a winery that offers pick-up in Austin. If wine isn't really your thing, Central Texas is also well known for its breweries and distilleries, including the ever-popular Deep Eddy vodka distillery just south of Austin.

Did someone say antiquing? Eighty miles east of Austin is Round Top , with all the vintage, collectible paraphernalia you could possibly want. This tiny, quirky town is an intriguing place to visit even under normal circumstances.

But a few times a year, Round Top explodes into antiquing heaven with the Round Top Antiques Show , which spans the better part of a week and draws visitors and sellers from all over the country. (If you're looking for the store equivalent of the coolest grandparents' attic in Austin, check out Uncommon Objects in south Austin.)

For an artsy desert experience

For a true road trip, go west — far west. About 430 miles west of Austin, to be exact.

Chances are, you may know a bit about Marfa , even if you think you haven't. If you've ever seen the iconic "tiny Prada" store in the desert, it's located just outside this little West Texas desert town. Originally founded as a railroad water stop in the 1880s, Marfa became a gathering place for artists and creatives starting in the early 1970s. Today, Marfa is a place for quirky hipster desert wonder. Located in the high desert 6.5 hours from Austin, the town offers an entirely different experience of Texas. Along the drive from Austin to Marfa, you'll watch the landscape shift from hill country scrub to desert.

You can stay in the famous boho glamping hotel El Cosmico here, where you'll likely stay in tents or a renovated vintage trailer. Alternatively, you can also find a lot of great Airbnb properties — including more campers . Frama Coffee at Tumbleweed Laundry is a hybrid laundromat-coffee shop — the perfect place to get some work done while simultaneously getting clean clothes.

Enjoy the vast skies at night from a vantage point at the McDonald Observatory, and don't leave before driving 33 miles farther west to take a photo at the famous Prada art installation. If you're heading back east, stop at a similar "tiny Target" installation 40 miles down Highway 90 on your way back.

Bottom line

While the tiny towns of Texas may not be very large, everything else is generally bigger , from the distances you'll be driving to the sheer amount of open sky you'll see on the road. This shortlist of destinations from Austin is far from an exhaustive list, but it's a start.

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7 exciting road trip adventures around austin, texas: where to go, what to see.

Austin, Texas is a fantastic place to call home, but sometimes you need to get out and explore the open road. Luckily, many incredible driving routes around Austin offer breathtaking scenery, historic landmarks, and killer food. Here are some of the best short road trips around Austin, TX.

1. Devil’s Backbone

Devil’s Backbone is a scenic drive winding through the Texas Hill Country between Wimberley and Blanco. The 30-mile route offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including limestone cliffs, rolling hills, and wildflowers. Along the way, stop at the Devil’s Backbone Tavern, a popular spot for live music and cold beer. You can also explore the nearby town of Wimberley, known for its quaint shops and galleries.

2. Lockhart

Lockhart is located about 30 miles south of Austin and is known as the “Barbecue Capital of Texas.” Take a relaxing drive through the countryside and stop at one of the famous barbecue joints in town, such as Black’s Barbecue, Kreuz Market, or Smitty’s Market. These three make up the “Holy Trinity of Barbecue”. Lockhart also has a charming downtown area with antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants. The Caldwell County Courthouse is a must-see while strolling downtown.

3. Round Top

Round Top is a small town located about an hour and a half east of Austin and is known for its antique shops and charming countryside. You’ll enjoy a beautiful drive through the rolling hills on the way. Once you arrive, stop at one of the many antique shops in town, such as The Hen House or The Arbors. If you’re a big fan of antiques, be sure to visit during the Round Top Antiques Fair, held twice a year in the spring and fall. Round Top also has several restaurants, including Royers Round Top Cafe, Duo, and Mandito’s.

4. Marble Falls

Marble Falls is located about an hour northwest of Austin and is known for its gorgeous scenery and outdoor recreation. After a drive through the Texas Hill Country, stop at the iconic Lake Marble Falls for a picnic or a swim. If you’re ready to get out of the sun, try touring Longhorn Cavern, just north of Marble Falls. You can also visit the historic Main Street District, which is home to several restaurants, shops, and galleries. Don’t leave without trying Bluebonnet Cafe’s famous pie!

5. Hill Country Wine Trail

You’ll definitely need a designated driver for this one! The  Hill Country Wine Trail  is a scenic drive that winds through the Texas Hill Country and is home to over fifty wineries. Take a leisurely drive through the rolling hills and stop at several wineries along the way, such as Becker Vineyards, Pedernales Cellars, and Fall Creek Vineyards. The area also has several charming towns, such as Fredericksburg and Johnson City, which offer a mix of history, culture, and outdoor recreation.

6. Fredericksburg

Speaking of Fredericksburg, it’s a fun location that deserves its own road trip. Located about an hour and a half west of Austin, Fredericksburg is a charming town known for its German heritage, wineries, and beautiful countryside. We’ve already covered the Hill Country views and wineries, but you can also explore the historic downtown area, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don’t miss the National Museum of the Pacific War, which is dedicated to the Pacific Theater of World War II and is located in the childhood home of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz.

7. Georgetown

For a shorter drive, check out Georgetown! It’s a charming town located just 30 minutes north of Austin. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing, as well as historical sites like the Williamson Museum. One popular spot is Blue Hole Park, a scenic natural swimming hole that’s perfect for a hot summer day. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and plenty of places to swim and relax. Additionally, downtown Georgetown is filled with boutique shops and local restaurants, including The Hollow, which offers farm-to-table dining.

These are just a few of our favorite driving routes and day trips around Austin that offer stunning scenery, historic landmarks, and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely drive through the countryside or want to explore some of the outlying towns, there’s plenty to do a short drive away.

Of course, nothing ruins a road trip faster than having the check engine light come on! We can help you handle all your regular maintenance before you hit the road. Contact us today for an appointment.

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