houston area day trips

13 best day trips from Houston

Mar 16, 2021 • 8 min read

Lake Livingston State Park, Texas. ©Getty

Houston , the USA’s fourth-largest metropolis, can seem so huge that thoughts of the myriad sights and landscapes just beyond its edges often fade from your mind’s eye.

But if you are in Houston for a few days, a day trip to some of the exceptional cities, museums, beaches, lakes and wildernesses nearby will make your time here a truly memorable one.  

These thirteen best day trips take you around the compass clockwise from north to west. So there will be something to enthral you whichever direction you are bound, family day trips from Houston to romantic day trips from Houston, beaches to barbecue joints, wetlands to wild islands, famous battlegrounds to beautiful bayous and arresting art museums to space-age sights.

Sam Houston National Forest

The arboreal adventure playground of Sam Houston National Forest is the biggest of Texas’ four main national forests, spilling over 255 emerald-green square miles. Top choice amongst the many outdoor activities here is the 128-mile Lone Star Trail, the state’s longest wilderness hike, which links the three distinct areas of the forest. There are myriad other connecting hiking and biking trails and at the three key recreation areas are picnicking places, lake swimming and watersports. The sense of remoteness is remarkable given you are a mere one-hour drive north of Houston.

Lake Livingston State Park

This, one of Texas’ largest lakes at 130 square miles of surface area and more than 450 miles of shoreline, is primarily famous for excellent white bass fishing. But it brushes the eastern edge of Sam Houston National Forest and amongst the woods winsomely hemming the lake are great hiking paths, especially throughout lovely Lake Livingston State Park in the southeast corner. At the park’s southern end you can still reconnoitre the remains of the ghost town of Swartout. This countrified escape lies just 1¼ hours north from Houston.

Anahuac Wildlife Refuge

The Anahuac Wildlife Refuge is one of the Texas mainland coast’s most wondrous wildlife sanctuaries: a 37,000-acre zone of prairies and bayou-riven coastal marshes where the fauna features alligators (it is one of the best spots in the USA to spy the toothy creatures), coyotes, bobcats, river otters, feral hogs, swamp rabbits, mottled ducks and snow geese. The latter descend in tens of thousands during winter months: an absolutely mesmeric sight. Trails fan out around the main refuge entrance near Shoveler Pond; the visitor center on Lake Anahuac just off I-10 is 45 minutes east of Houston.

Stark Museum of Art

The city of Orange might be small but the Stark Museum of Art is immensely significant on a national scale: it houses one of the biggest assemblages of art and artefacts pertaining to the American Old West. Paintings, sculpture, prints and texts comprise a collection featuring works by greats of the genre like Frederic Remington and Charles Marion Russell. The couple that collected most of these works, William and Miriam Stark, lived nearby in a now-restored 1890s Queen Anne-style wooden house filled with more of their cache of unique decorative objects. The museum is 1¾ hours east of Houston.

Sea Rim State Park

Snug against the Louisiana border is this 4000-acre wetland wildlife haven, protecting fauna from American alligators to river otters, coyote and ghost crabs but most renowned for its stupendous birdlife, being on a major migratory route. Avian highlights include roseate spoonbills, snowy and cattle egrets and many heron varieties. The Gambusia Nature Trail boardwalk transports you grippingly close to some of the best wildlife, kayakers can paddle umpteen unspoilt waterways and mire meets surf in a spectacular sandy swathe of shoreline ranking amongst the best beaches in Texas. The park is 1¾ hours east of Houston.    

San Jacinto Battleground Historic Site

The spot where Texas won independence from Mexico, in the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution in 1836, is dramatically marked with the San Jacinto Monument and surrounding site , which runs to 1100 acres. The 567-foot monument is the world’s tallest stone column and capped in a Lone Star, Texas’ easily identifiable symbol. At 500 feet up, the observation deck has the region’s best birds-eye views, including of the Battleship USS Texas, a 27,000-tonne veteran vessel of both World Wars once considered the world’s most dangerous weapon, and of Houston’s skyline beyond. A museum also retells the story of Texas’ road to freedom. The site is 30 minutes’ drive southeast of Downtown.

Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston , attached to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, is the closest most of us will ever get to a moon landing. The captivating interactive museum explores the past, present and future of space missions. The Apollo and Shuttle programs were not launched from Houston, but much of the planning, control and training happened here. The best bit comes when you get whizzed to Mission Control (yep, as in ‘Houston, we have a problem’) and to see the Astronaut Training Facility. You may also get to clock the control room currently used to monitor the International Space Station. Set aside several hours for your visit. Unsurprisingly, this is the most popular attraction with international tourists in the wider Houston area, and just 30 minutes southeast of Downtown.

Galveston Island

No trip to this part of Texas would be complete without a jaunt to the fascinating mishmash of attractions at Galveston . Balanced on a barrier island blessed with long sandy beaches, this is the local seaside resort of choice and a great family day trip from Houston, as well as being a history-entrenched city replete with handsome Victorian-era buildings, museums and scrumptious seafood restaurants. For sun and sand, the San Luis Pass Pocket Park Beaches are prettiest whilst East Beach is the place for partying. For an old-fashioned taste of the 19th-century glory days here, hit the city’s Strand Historic District. You can do justice to some of the beaches and still absorb a portion of the historic charm in a day trip, as all this is one hour southeast of Houston.

Surfside Beach

If you fancy hassle-free sea air without Galveston’s crowds, the pleasant settlement of Surfside Beach hogs a ravishing expanse of blonde sand on the Gulf of Mexico coast . The surf, as the name intimates, is some of the state’s most consistent, and there are a smattering of places to eat. As you bear northeast along the sand you will find wilder, undeveloped strand, but the whole area seems quite quiet and low-key. Surfside Beach is one hour south of Houston.

Matagorda Island   

If you want to get as far away as possible in feel from Houston for the day, this is where to come. Matagorda Island is only accessible by chartered boat – or your own craft – from Port O’ Connor and when you arrive here, there is nothing: nothing save entrancing wilderness wrapped by dreamy empty sandy beaches all the way down the island’s 38-mile length. A lighthouse is the only hallmark of civilisation; otherwise it is you and a magnificent menagerie of wildlife that can include bald eagles, alligators, coyotes and much more. Bring everything you need for the journey, including drinking water. The island is three hours southwest of Houston via Port O’ Connor, including road and boat time.

It was at the Alamo, where a Texas army outnumbered almost ten to one fought valiantly against Mexican troops to their deaths, that the tide turned in the Texas Revolution. Many Texans, incensed by bloodshed that day, enlisted and spurred the state on to gain independence from Mexico following the Battle of San Jacinto under two months later. Little Gonzales supplied 32 of Texas’ 200-odd fated Alamo force and Gonzales Memorial Museum remembers them with a wealth of revolutionary artefacts. The city is thus a must-see for Texan history buffs, but also a brilliant base for forays into the nearby prairie region, a montage of hills, oak and pecan forests and slow-flowing rivers where superb kayaking beckons. Gonzales is a two-hour motor west of Houston.

Texas is all sizzlingly superlative where barbecue is concerned, but the Lone Star State lauds little Lockhart above everywhere else as the Holy Grail of grilled meat. There are three key pit stops for barbecue devotees: Kreuz Market and Smitty’s Market, both run by siblings that went their separate grilling ways after a family dispute, and Black’s Barbecue, supposedly the state’s oldest family-run barbecue restaurant and serving sensational brisket since 1932. Come with your appetite, which will hopefully get worked up on the 2¾-hour drive west from Houston.

A beguiling indigo-hued lupine native to Texas and Northern Mexico, the bluebonnet is the official state flower, but you do not see it just anywhere. Prepossessing Brenham, however, is swaddled in fields of the pretty little things and known as Texas’ bluebonnet capital, with a wildflower trail around the region taking you to where the finest flora flourishes. But you should tarry in the cute downtown too, lined as it is with independent boutiques and antique shops. The sweetest attraction is delightfully old-fashioned Bluebell Creameries, producers of the unofficial state ice cream, with a visitor center, shop, café and 50-something divine flavours to keep you amused. What with all the ice cream and flowers, this makes one of the most romantic day trips from Houston, 1¼ hours southeast of here.

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50 Breathtaking Day Trips From Houston

Houston’s unique geographical location offers diverse day trip options for Houstonians. Among the most popular options are excursions to Galveston Island, known for its sandy beaches and historic attractions like the Strand Historic District. Another favorite is Space Center Houston, offering an immersive space exploration experience.

The cultural hub of San Antonio with its historic sites, wildlife adventures in the Brazos Bend State Park, and the culinary delights in nearby cities like Austin roundup the myriad of exciting destinations within a short drive of the vibrant city of Houston.

For those seeking hidden gems, the serene Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge provides a peaceful escape into nature. The charming town of Brenham, with its bluebonnet-filled fields, is an ideal springtime retreat. Antique enthusiasts can explore the quaint shops in Round Top, while wine lovers can savor tastings in the Texas Hill Country.

However, what most others won’t tell you is that there is a wealth of destinations beyond these. Ever heard of Lake Houston Wilderness Park and Umbrella Alley in Baytown? Take a trip to the top of the San Jacinto Monument with us! Houstonians have the privilege of experiencing a rich tapestry of landscapes and activities just a stone’s throw away – and you’re in the perfect place to discover them all!

Also Read: 18 Best weekend Getaways from Houston, Texas

Houston's Best Day Trip Destinations

Best Houston Suburbs to explore on day trips

Houston is spread really far and white.

That means many of its suburbs also make perfect day trips from Houston, TX.

You can stay within the city and still plan a day trip to Katy or Woodlands. 

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The Woodlands

The Woodlands is one of Houston’s most famous suburbs. 

Located north of the city, it is famous for its shopping, dining, and outdoor attractions.

People watch while the kids play at Market Street or take the free Town Center Trolley to Waterway Square. 

The Waterway Square is our favorite area.

Here you will find the beautiful water fountain.

It looks even more amazing when lit up at night. You can also take a cruise on the Waterway.

You can also go kayaking on Lake Woodlands, making this one of the popular day trips from Houston for nature lovers.

Distance – 40 mins

Kemah Boardwalk

The Kemah Boardwalk is one of the most fun day trips from Houston that you can plan for the whole family.

This amusement park has a delightful retro vibe.

Here you will find a variety of rides including a ferris wheel, roller coaster, and carousel.

You can purchase an all day pass which lets the kids enjoy unlimited rides on the boardwalk. 

The boardwalk also has many great restaurants and it is perfect for people watching.

Our kids enjoy the water views and seeing the boats in the inlet.

The sunsets on the Gulf of Mexico are also very beautiful on the boardwalk.

Also the boardwalk looks very pretty at night with the neon signs and exciting atmosphere.

We definitely recommend staying here until it’s dark. 

Distance – 1 hour

Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas

Katy is one of the oldest and most popular suburbs in Houston.

The area has plenty of historical, cultural, and urban attractions for families.

The Katy Heritage Society  Railroad Museum is a must for train loving kids.

They can see the historic depot and a vintage caboose.  

The Katy Mills Mall is an exciting destination for shopping.

Here you will find all the major brands as well as entertainment such as movies and arcade games.

For outdoor lovers, hike the mile long Mary Jo Peckham trail or go fishing at the lake. 

Distance – 35 mins

Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston is a must-visit when in the area.

Here you can learn all about human initiatives in outer space exploration.

This is a fascinating place to visit for science nerds and geeks.

We enjoy spending hours here looking at the exhibits such as astronaut uniforms, moon rocks, and debris from outer space . 

You can watch a space movie or take the tram tours to see the Saturn V Rocket, Astronaut Training Center, and Mission Control Room.

Spending a day at the Johnson Space Center NASA is definitely one of our favorite day trips from Houston. 

Clear Lake City

While Clear Lake City is home to Kemah Boardwalk and Space Center Houston, there are many other things to do in this exciting suburb.

You can go hiking at the Armand Bayou Nature Center.

You will be able to spot a variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles in the park.

The Lone Star flight Museum is also based here and is home to over 40 vintage aircrafts and aviation artifacts. 

Conroe is based around Lake Conroe and naturally, this area is great for different kinds of water sports.

You can go bass fishing or just rent a boat to spend a day on the water.

The Margaritaville Resort is based here and makes a great place to stay, if you’re looking for something more than a day trip.

The city also has many parks and a historic downtown district and that is great for a quick stroll. 

Distance – 50 mins

Sugar Land is one of our favorite day trips from the Houston area where you can visit museums and enjoy a cultural experience away from Houston’s busy downtown Museum District.

Here you can visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science Sugar Land campus.

Or let the kids enjoy at Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center.

The area also has many hiking trails and the beautiful Oyster Creek Park. 

Rosenberg and Richmond

Rosenberg is a small town located southwest of Houston.

The main attraction here is the Rosenberg Historic Downtown District.

Here you will find striking Western style buildings.

Most of them have been restored to their original glory and house boutiques, cafes, and antique stores. 

Rosenberg is also home to many other attractions such as the Fort Bend Museum,

where you can learn about the first colony established in the area in the 1820s…..

…..and the George Ranch historical park, a living history park in Richmond.

Brazos Bend State Park is also located here and is great to observe the night sky at the George observatory or go hiking and spot alligators. 

Spring was once famous for the railroad.

Since then, the suburb has grown by leaps and bounds yet Old Town Spring has retained the historic charm to attract visitors.

This historic part of the city has Victorian style buildings and is charming to take a walk.

You can spend the day eating delicious food at restaurants and cafes, sipping on drinks, and shopping at boutique stores. 

A must visit Spring attraction is the Houston Texas Temple.

Mercer Botanic Gardens are also located in spring.

Spring is also home to amazing parks, nature trails, and has lots of hiking.

During the holiday season, you will find some of Houston’s most fabulously decorated homes here.

This is the perfect day trip from Houston for those living within downtown area. 

Distance – 30 mins

Missouri City and Stafford

The Missouri City – Stafford area is home to one of Houston’s most Instagrammable spots, BAPS Shri. Swaminarayan Temple.

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple has excellent architecture and is a great place to admire the intricate carvings on its facade.

The temple is stunning and just amazing to visit.

The suburbs also have great parks where you can enjoy the natural views and local flora and fauna including the Cullinan Park and Kitty Hollow Park. 

Best Beach Day Trip from Houston

Houston is located in the Gulf Coast region of Texas.

That means it is pretty close to some of the best beaches in the Lone Star State .

So pack your bags with a swimsuit, sunglasses, and sunscreen and put a beach chair in the trunk.

Let’s have a fun day at the beach! 

Also Read: Best Beaches near Houston for a Beach Vacation

When you think about a day trip from Houston, Galveston is the first destination that comes to most people’s minds.

This island city is the perfect fun day trip.

If you want to relax on the sand and swim in the water, then visit either Stuart Beach or East Beach. 

If you love amusement rides, then visit Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.

Or spend the day at Moody Gardens.

Galveston has just about something for everybody and is one of the best beach towns in Texas . 

Distance – 55 mins

Galveston Island State Park

If you prefer undeveloped and unspoiled beaches over the beach umbrellas and beach crowds, then head to Galveston Island State Park.

Here you will likely have the beach to yourself. 

You can spend a relaxing day beachcombing for sea glass and seashells or go on hiking trails or bird watch on the bayside.

You can also build a sand castle or just splash in the ocean.

This natural paradise is the perfect antidote to Houston’s busy city life. 

Distance – 1 hr 5 mins

Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach located near Freeport, Texas in Brazoria County is an amazing beach day trip from Houston.

This is one of the cleanest beaches on the Gulf Coast of Texas.

It is much quieter and calmer than Galveston beaches and is a great alternative. 

We love driving to the beach along the scenic Bluewater Highway Trail.

Once there, you can play on the beach, swim, walk on the jetty, or go fishing at the Surfside Jetty County Park.

The jetty is very long and amazing for a romantic sunset stroll.

You can set up the grill, have a picnic, and watch the boats come into the port. 

Bolivar Peninsula and Crystal Beach

Bolivar Peninsula is one of the most exciting day trips from Houston for kids because of the Galveston-Bolivar ferry.

Once on the peninsula, you can drive or set up camp anywhere along the 27 miles of coastline. 

One of the most popular beaches here is Crystal Beach.

Along with the soft, powdery sand, you will also find several restaurants, shopping, and more here.

There are many other things to do on the Bolivar Peninsula including the lighthouse, birding, and the historic Fort Travis. 

Distance – 1 hr 30 mins

Sea Rim State Park

Sea Rim State Park located in Port Arthur is one of the hidden gems near Houston.

This pristine state park has about 5 miles of beach frontage and hardly any visitors. 

You can hike the Gambusia Nature Trail over the marshlands and spot lots of wildlife.

Or just spend a day on the beach and hunt for seashells.

The state park has excellent kayaking trails too. 

Distance – 1 hr 45 mins

La Porte 

Sylvan Beach Park in La Porte is an amazing beach day trip from Houston.

The beach and the water here is really clean and great for swimming.

The park also has one of the longest fishing piers in Texas.

The park is fun for the entire family as there is a play area right next to the beach. 

Besides the beach, La Porte has many other attractions such as the San Jacinto Monument and Museum, The La Porte Bay Area Heritage Museum, and the Governor Ross Sterling Mansion. 

Also Read: Houston to South Padre Island Road trip

Best Hiking and Birding Day Trips from Houston for nature lovers

Houston is also located close to many natural areas and outdoor attractions.

These are excellent for activities such as hiking, biking, birding, wildlife watching, and even camping if you want to extend your day trip. 

Here are some of the best day trips in Houston for outdoor lovers. 

Sam Houston National Forest

Sam Houston National Forest is one of the four national forests in Texas .

This national forest is the one located closest to Houston and is just 50 miles north of the city. 

The forest has multiple recreation areas including those located along Lake Conroe.

It is a popular recreation ground for those interested in hiking, camping, hunting, and wildlife watching. Sam Houston National Forest has lots of opportunities for water sports.

You can go fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the lakes on the lakes. 

The popular Lone Star Hiking Trail passes through the National Forest and is great for both short day hikes or multi day backpacking. 

Brazos Bend State Park

Brazos Bend State Park is a favorite with our kids for alligator spotting.

In fact, this is one of the best places near Houston to see alligators in the wild.

The park is located just 45 miles south of downtown and has plenty of hiking and biking trails. 

We especially love the boardwalk accessible Creekfield Lake Nature Trail.

The trail is just half a mile long and has wonderful views of the wetlands and its wildlife.

If you’re looking for more than a day trip then you can also camp within the park. 

The most exciting feature of the State Park is the George Observatory.

The observatory is located within the park and managed by the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

It is open to the public on Saturday nights.

Here you can enjoy stargazing at the night sky through the observatory’s telescopes. 

Angelina National Forest

Angelina National Forest, located in the Piney Woods region of Texas, makes a great outdoor day trip from Houston. 

Popular activities here include boating and fishing on the Sam Rayburn Reservoir, boarding and wildlife watching, hiking, biking, and scenic drives. 

The forest also makes a great fall day trip from Houston.

You can see splashes of vivid and vibrant fall colors amidst the dense forests of evergreen pine trees. 

Distance – 2 hrs 10 mins

Davy Crockett National Forest

This one is for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts!

Davy Crockett National Forest located north of Houston is named after the legendary frontier pioneer.

This amazing outdoor recreation and wildlife habitat has many hiking trails that go through its landscape of hardwood trees, evergreen pine forests. 

The forest is home to endangered birds and wildlife.

As such, birding and wildlife watching are very popular.

The Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is popular for water activities such as swimming, paddling, canoeing, boating, and fishing. 

Distance – 2 hrs

Sabine National Forest

Sabine National Forest is located east of Houston near the Texas Louisiana border.

The outdoor recreation opportunities in this national forest are dominated by the water sports on Toledo Bend Reservoir.

This massive reservoir is said to be one of the largest lakes in Texas. 

Visitors can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, canoeing, paddling, swimming, and even camping by the water.

The forest has numerous hiking and mountain biking trails as well as dedicated horseback trails.

The forest also offers excellent wildlife viewing and is a great fun day trip for the entire family. 

Distance – 2 hrs 50 mins

Big Thicket National Preserve

The Big Thicket National Preserve in Southeast Texas is one of the largest forests in the country.

The forest has over 40 miles of hiking trails and is an amazing natural paradise.

Inside the forest you will find creeks, bayous, and a river. 

On the hikes you can admire the natural ecosystem and see carnivorous plants such as the pitcher plant and sundew, beautiful bald cypress trees, and towering pines.

Apart from hiking, you can go kayaking or canoeing as well as bird watching in the forest. 

Some of the other popular ways to explore Big Thicket National Preserve include biking and horse riding on the Big Sandy Trail.

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent day trip if you want to spend time in the nature.

The best way to explore this preserve is through scenic drives on the park roads.

This preserve also has several well maintained boardwalks over the marshes and swamps. 

On the trails, you can spot many alligators, songbirds, water birds, and waterfowl.

The refuge also has a butterfly hummingbird garden.

This is an excellent day trip to take the kids and enjoy the outdoors on the Gulf Coast. 

Distance – 1 hr 25 mins

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge located in Freeport is an excellent place for birding and wildlife watching.

It is also a favorite with bikers, hikers, and wildlife photographers.

Hike the Big Slough Wilderness Area boardwalk trail and spot alligators.

Go on the auto driving tour to spot roseate spoonbills and sandhill cranes.

See the exhibits inside the Discovery Center to learn about local wildlife.

Hunting and fishing are also permitted in the reserve.

Best time to visit is during April when you can watch the migrating birds.

Goose Island State Park

Goose Island State Park is located about three and a half hours away from Houston in Rockport, Texas.

The park is most famous for the Big Tree which is one of the largest live oak trees in the country.

The tree is around 35 ft wide and is over centuries old. 

The park is also famous for its nature.

Because of its location on the southern tip of Lamar Peninsula amidst the bays, many bird species and animals call it home.

On a visit you can spot deer, armadillos, rabbits, the endangered whooping cranes, and blue crabs. 

Distance – 2 hrs 45 mins

Mustang Island State Park

Combine a beach day with a drive down the coast and some excellent hiking amongst the sand dunes at Mustang Island State Park.

The park has 5 miles of coastline where you can go beachcombing, swimming, or just relax on the beach.

The island is also excellent for bird watching and has many paddling trails. 

Distance – 3 hrs 36 mins

Best Small Towns to Visit on a Day Trip from Houston

Pack your car and drive west, the Eastern border of the Texas Hill Country and its amazing small towns beckons you.

Or drive north to the small towns in the Piney Woods region. 

Here are some of the best small town day trips from Houston.

Navasota makes an excellent day trip from Houston, especially during spring.

You can explore this charming town, visit Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, and even see the Grimes County Courthouse as well as Fanthorp Inn Historic Site which is just 10 mi away in Anderson . 

We love seeing the historic homes downtown in Washington Ave and Railroad St.

They have amazing architecture and some are even open for interior tours.

The Horlock Art Gallery and History Museum is also a great place to visit. 

Music is also a big attraction in Navasota and the city is must visit for all blues lovers.

Distance – 1 hr 15 mins

Time for some ice-cream!

Brenham is a favorite day trip for most Houston area families for one reason: Blue Bell Creamery!

You can go to the creamery in Brenham to see how the ice cream is being made from the observation platform.

And you can eat as many scoops of ice cream as you want for just $1 per scoop.

Our kids love visiting the Creamery. 

However a day trip to Brenham is not just about ice cream.

Historic Downtown Brenham is a very pretty place to explore and shop.

Here you will find charming architecture and stunning murals.

You can shop for antiques, souvenirs, and more.

Attractions like the Brenham Heritage Museum are worth a visit. 

Apart from Blue Bell and historic downtown, Brenham is also famous for its abundant Texas bluebonnets in the spring.

To see these beauties just drive around the Brenham countryside or visit the Texas Independent Trail through Independence and Chappell Hill. 

Distance – 1 hr 10 mins

College Station

College Station is a great vibrant day trip from Houston.

The city is home to Texas A & M University and has a very youthful vibe.

The University campus is also home to the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

Here you can see a replica of the oval office and also a part of the Berlin Wall. 

Take a stroll through historic downtown Bryan, see the art galleries and museums, and visit Santa’s Wonderland in the holiday season.

Another favorite with our kids is the Aggieland Safari where they can see the wild animals on a drive-through safari and even feed them. 

Baytown , located to the east of Houston, is a great place to visit for art and culture lovers.

There are several types of public arts, sculptures, and murals in downtown Baytown.

The city even holds an annual arts festival every year. 

The most popular attraction of Baytown is definitely the Umbrella Alley.

A canopy of rainbow colored, colorful umbrellas covers this previously unused alley.

Beautiful murals are located on the side walls.

The alley is very beautiful and one of the most Instagrammable places in Texas. 

Baytown also has many other attractions.

Spend a day splashing in the water at Pirates Bay Water Park or take the Lynchburg ferry across the Houston ship channel.

At the Baytown Nature Center, you will find miles of hiking trails in tranquil surroundings.  

Distance – 25 mins

While Texas City is located on the Gulf Coast, it doesn’t have a pretty beach as such.

That’s why we have included it in this list of the best small towns that you can visit on a day trip from Houston.

Our kids love seeing the vintage steam train locomotive in Noble Park. 

If you love shopping, then you will love the Tanger Outlets Houston located in Texas City.

Most renowned brands have a store here.

The Texas City Museum is another great place to visit.

Here you can see lots of historical artifacts including civil war era cannon, model trains, and exhibits related to the 1947 Texas City explosion disaster. 

Of course no trip to Texas City can be complete without visiting the Texas City Dike.

This fishing pier stretches 5.3 miles in Galveston Bay and is the longest artificial fishing pier in the world.

Reload riding down the dike and watch the fishermen and their boats come in.

You can also spot dolphins and enjoy the beach at the end. 

Distance – 45 mins

Rusk is a favorite with Houston area families for one reason: its home to the Texas State Railroad.

The rail depot offers scenic train rides on vintage trains.

There are a variety of themed train rides year-round including the Pumpkin Patch Express and the famous Polar Express during holiday season.

The train rides are an amazing day trip from Houston. 

Other things to do in the Rusk include walking over the Historic Rusk Footbridge, seeing the exhibits narrating the history of the area at the Heritage Center of Cherokee County, and exploring the charming city on foot. 

Distance – 2 hrs 40 mins

The most popular train excursion of the Texas State Railroad will take you to the charming town of Palestine.

Here you can see historic landmarks such as the Texas Jail House, the Railroad Heritage Center, and the Museum of East Texas Culture. 

Anderson County Courthouse is also located in Palestine and is a beautiful and photogenic building.

Palestine also has many parks including Davey Dogwood Park and Reagan Park where you can enjoy nature.

You can easily combine Rusk, Palestine, and the train ride in one day trip. 

During winter, the Palestine Polar Express is our favorite day trips with the kids.

Distance – 2 hrs 30 mins

Beaumont , located to the east of Houston, is an amazing cultural destination.

The most popular attraction here is Spindletop – Gladys City Boomtown Museum.

The museum commemorates the first discovery of oil in Texas at the Spindletop Hill Salt Dome.

Here you can experience life as it was during the time when oil was first discovered in Texas. 

Beaumont has many other cool museums including the Fire Museum of Texas, Clifton Steamboat Museum, Texas Energy Museum, and the Beaumont Children’s Museum.

The beautifully landscaped Beaumont Botanical Gardens are great for nature lovers.

Another cool attraction is Gator Country, where you can view several large alligators. 

New Braunfels

New Braunfels in the Texas Hill Country makes a great day trip from Houston.

The main attraction here is Gruene Historic District and floating in the Comal River.

The famous Gruene Dance Hall is located in the former ghost town. 

The two mile stretch of the Comal River in New Braunfels offers some of the best river tubing in Texas.

The Schlitterbahn Waterpark is also located in New Braunfels and is in great option if you don’t want to float down the river. 

Port Arthur

There are many other things to do in Port Arthur other than the Sea Rim State Park and that’s why we love visiting here on a day trip.

Our favorite is the Museum of the Gulf Coast. Here you can see artifacts ranging from the arts to history and music. 

The Pompeiian Villa is a historic home that is open for tours.

Built in the 1900s, the home is beautiful inside out. Sabine Pass Battleground which is the site of an important civil war era battle is also located in Port Arthur. 

Distance – 1 hr 20 mins

Victoria, Texas is located just under 2 hours from Houston near the Gulf Coast.

It is popular for its charming downtown which is home to many historic structures.

Be sure to admire the Victoria County Courthouse, DeLeon Plaza, and the Pumphouse building which is now home to a restaurant.

Kid-friendly attractions in Victoria, Texas include Museum of the Coastal Bend, Texas Zoo, and the Children’s Discovery Museum.

Best Historic Attractions to visit on a day trip from Houston

There are a variety of historical attractions near Houston which are excellent to visit for native Texans.

They make a great stop for the entire family and provide kids an opportunity to experience Texas history in its original setting. 

Washington on the Brazos

Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site is known as the Birthplace of Texas.

It was here that the Texas declaration of independence was signed and the idea of the Republic of Texas was formed in 1836. 

Visitors to the historic site can see Independence Hall where the declaration was signed.

Other historic buildings on site include the star of the Republic Museum and the Barrington plantation homestead.

Washington on the Brazos is an excellent place to take kids and introduce them to the history of Texas. 

San Jacinto Museum and Monument

San Jacinto Monument, located in La Porte, commemorates the site of the Battle of San Jacinto.

This final and victorious battle in the Texas Revolution led to the formation of the independent Republic of Texas.

The historic site is a must visit for any Texan. 

The over 563 ft high towering column is a beautiful architectural structure.

The grounds have a reflecting pool and an amphitheater.

The museum located at the base of the monument has many artifacts dedicated to Texas history.

Visitors can also write to the top of the monument and see amazing views of the Houston Ship Channel. 

Battleship Texas

USSS Texas was commissioned in 1914 and is the only battleship in existence that has fought in both the World Wars.

Today, the historic Battleship Texas is dedicated as a museum ship and is open to visitors for guided tours.

It is located near the San Jacinto Monument. 

There are a couple of ways that tourists can experience the ship.

The easiest way is a self-guided tour where you can see the sleeping quarters and learn about life on the ship.

Naval and maritime enthusiasts can also take a 3 and 1/2 hour long hardhat tour which goes into the boiler room, plotting room, and many other areas not accessible on the general tour. 

For the ultimate experience you can go on the overnight education program, where you can spend the entire night on the ship and visit areas that are not open to the public such as the gun turret.

Battleship Texas is currently undergoing renovation and hence all tours are stopped at the moment. 

San Antonio Missions and the Alamo

The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, located in San Antonio, is home to four Spanish frontier missions built to spread Christianity.

The 4 missions within the park and the Alamo together are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Visitors can see these five missions on a day trip to San Antonio.

The five missions are Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, Mission Espada, and the Alamo Mission.

While the most popularly visited mission is the Alamo, each of the missions is really beautiful and has something unique for visitors. 

Distance – 3 hrs 5 mins

Read: Houston to San Antonio Drive Guide

Sam Houston Memorial Museum

The Sam Houston Memorial Museum is located in Huntsville and makes a perfect day trip from Houston.

Here you can learn about the life of Sam Houston who had a prominent role in the formation of the Republic of Texas and was its first president. 

The museum is located within the Sam Houston State University.

This is an excellent place to understand the early history and culture of Texas in the 19th century.

There are plenty of historic buildings on the ground and a variety of informative and interesting exhibits. 

Sabine Pass Battleground Historic Site

Located in Jefferson County near Port Arthur, this historic site was home to a significant Civil War battle.

The Confederate army held off a Union attack in September 1863 at Sabine Pass.

This was a key port for the shipping of Confederate supplies and hence was of significant importance in defending Texas. 

Visitors to the site can admire a statue of Confederate Lt. Dowling who led the army to victory.

You can also see a scaled model of the civil war era fort and the battleground.

There is a monument dedicated to the Union soldiers who died in the battle. 

Distance – 1 hr 35 mins

Best Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Houston

One caveat: these are not really day trips since there are lots of things to do in these Texan cities.

However, if short on time we have seen these cities on a day trip as well. 

I mean, we have once seen both San Antonio and Austin on a single day trip from Houston while showing guests around the state! 

You do need to leave early and devote a whole day to make these day trips work.

They also make excellent weekend getaways from Houston. 

The Dallas metropolitan area makes an excellent day trip from Houston.

Enjoy the museums in downtown Dallas including the 6th-floor museum at Dealey Plaza, the Museum of Art, and the Perot Museum. 

If you love nature, then the Dallas Arboretum is a must visit.

The botanical gardens look fantastic year round and have a variety of seasonal attractions such as the pumpkin patch in fall and the colorful azalea gardens in spring. 

Distance – 3 hrs 30 mins

A day trip to Arlington means a trip to Six Flags over Texas theme park.

This amazing park has a variety of roller coasters for all ages but it’s thrilling rides are most admired by the teens.

It really makes a fun family getaway from Houston.

You can also plan a trip to Arlington without visiting Six Flags.

There are many things to do in Arlington including the amazing river legacy Park and it’s walking trails, the Museum of Art, and football games and concerts at the AT&T Stadium. 

You can also see a space themed show at the Planetarium at the University of Texas Arlington.

The international Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame is a quirky attraction for the whole family. 

Distance – 3 hrs 50 mins

In the early days, Fort Worth was an important trading post for cowboys.

Today, that part of the Texan Heritage is preserved at the Fort Worth Stockyards and the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. 

The Fort Worth Stockyards is one of the best attractions in Texas.

From the historic buildings to the clothes selling western outfits, hats, and boots, the Stockyards are a lot of fun.

You can step back in time and order a drink at the salon or see a live rodeo. 

Distance – 3 hrs 55 mins

If you’re looking for day trips from Houston during the holiday season, then consider a trip to Grapevine .

The city located north of Dallas is known as the Christmas capital of Texas. 

Grapevine is just beautiful to visit during the holiday season when a million lights light up the historic downtown district.

Kids can even ride a North Pole Express to meet Santa, Claus making this a highlight of the holiday season. 

Distance – 3 hrs 48 mins

San Antonio

San Antonio is an amazing cultural and historical destination from Houston.

The main attraction of the city is the Alamo.

This historic site has been the rallying point in Texas’s War for Independence from Mexico. 

The San Antonio Riverwalk is another amazing place to visit.

Take a stroll and admire the architecture and vibrant nature of the Riverwalk.

Have a meal by the waterside and enjoy a cruise on the river. 

Distance – 3 hrs

The state capital of Texas is just a little over 2 hours away from Houston and can be easily visited on a day trip.

See the beautiful Texas state capitol building, enjoy the campus of University of Texas Austin, and take a dip in the famous Barton Spring Pool. 

Enjoy a meal on Rainey Street and take a stroll in Zilker Park before enjoying the city’s famous music scene at night.

Austin is known as the live music capital of the world and you can easily find a band performing in the entertainment districts of 6th Street and Rainey Street. 

Distance – 2 hrs 35 mins

Rockport, located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, makes an excellent beach getaway.

It is home to the popular Rockport Beach.

Here you can swim in the waters, enjoy fishing, and spot a variety of birds. 

But there are many other things to do in Rockport besides the beach.

You can visit the Texas Maritime Museum to know all about oil drilling and pirating off the Gulf Coast.

See the amazing sculpture garden at the Rockport Center for the Arts and enjoy fresh seafood meals in the city. 

This is one of the best budget friendly day trips from Houston, Texas.

Corpus Christi

Another nice beachy getaway on the Gulf Coast of Texas!

Corpus Christi makes an excellent day trip from Houston for a variety of reasons.

You can see the USS Lexington Museum ship or enjoy the touch pools at the Texas state aquarium. 

The drive to the city itself is also a delight as you will pass by smaller coastal fishing towns and fresh fruit stands in the countryside.

The beaches around Corpus Christi are also some of the most beautiful and calm beaches in Texas. 

Distance – 3 hrs 13 mins

Lake Charles

Looking for an excellent day trip from Houston across the border in Louisiana?

Then plan a visit to Lake Charles.

This day trip is full of nature, culture, and delicious food.

You can also visit a casino and enjoy gambling in Lake Charles. 

And drive the Creole nature trail to enjoy the Cajun foods, culture, and wildlife.

Sport and alligator or an osprey and listen to Zydeco music.

Return downtown to see the famous Mardi Gras museum and the beautiful homes in the Charpentier Historic District. 

Also Read: Houston to New Orleans Drive

Interested in knowing about Fredericksburg, Port Aransas , and other amazing destinations from Houston?

Read our post on the best road trips from Houston . 

We hope you liked our post on the most awesome and terrific day trips from Houston.

Did we miss any amazing destination near H-Town? Let us know in the comments.

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15 Best Day Trips from Houston, TX

Houston is the most diverse city in Texas, and that diversity extends to its attractions. The Houston area has tons of things to do, including museums, beaches, parks, and more. Whether you are single or with your family, looking for outdoor adventures or shopping fun, some of these Houston day trips are for you!

Please note that drive times are from downtown Houston and may vary dramatically depending on your specific location and the traffic at the time.

Here are the best day trips from Houston!

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Best Day Trips From Houston Less Than 1 Hour Away

Kemah boardwalk.

Kemah Boardwalk is the perfect Houston day trip for family fun. It is home to dozens of waterfront stores and restaurants including everything from Starbucks and Build-a-Bear Workshop to the Aquarium Restaurant and Treasure Chest Gift Shop.

The amusements at Kemah Boardwalk include a Ferris wheel, a double-decker carousel, hypnospin, and many more. There are midway games, an arcade, and a playground. Don’t forget to take in the seaside shows, too!

Driving Distance from Houston

45 minutes.

Space Center Houston + Johnson Space Center

Fun and educational, Houston Space Center is one of the most famous attractions in the Houston area.

Enjoy exhibits about shuttles from different eras, the amazing astronauts who flew in them, even explore inside the shuttle replica Independence! Adults and kids alike will want to check out the interactive exhibit Mission Mars.

You can even go to Johnson Space Center and tour astronaut training facilities and mission control.

37 minutes.

Katy is home to the Great Southwest Equestrian Center, which holds prestigious horse shows and rodeos as well as other livestock events.

For kids and families, there is Typhoon Texas: State of the Art Waterpark.

If you are looking for a quiet afternoon, there are several museums to get lost in, including the Katy Railroad Heritage Museum (with a caboose car outside to explore), Katy Heritage Museum and the Katy War Veterans Memorial and Museum.

30 minutes.

Conroe is the place to come if you want a day of fun and sun at one of the best lakes close to Houston ! This lake town is home to jet skiing, kayaking, rafting, and boating.

Away from the water, there are several miniature golf courses, go-karts, bowling, and outdoor obstacle courses.

For a taste of the local spirits check out Bartletts Distillery for a tour and tasting or visit the tasting room at Southern Star Brewing.

40 minutes.

Blessington Farms

Get out of town, pick your own vine-ripe berries and vegetables, and get hands-on with animals at Blessington Farms in Wallis.

Fishing comes with your admission, so B.Y.O.B (Bring Your Own Bait).

The aviary has Quaker parrots you can feed. Blessington Farms even has some unique fun for kids with their rat race (where you roll tubes on a track by running inside them), the Spider Webb to climb on, sand mountain, and a barrel train ride.

50 minutes.

Brazos Bend State Park

Outdoor lovers will rank Brazos Bend State Park among their favorite day trips from Houston.

Here, you’ll find nature trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You can also fish from the shores or pier, no license needed!

Brazos Bend is all about nature, so it’s a perfect place to spend the day if you love getting outdoors!

Galveston is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Houston–no surprise, considering its beautiful and, more importantly, easily accessible beach close to Houston !

The most popular beaches are Galveston Beach, Porretto Beach and East Beach, but once you’ve had your fill of the water, there are still plenty of things to do in Galveston.

The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier has 16 rides, midway games, and a variety of other family-friendly activities. When you get hungry from all the fun, try one of the local favorite restaurants like Shrimp ’n Stuff, Mosquito Cafe, Salsa’s Mexican Cafe, or Olympia Grill at Pier 21. There are breweries to visit, such as Beerfoot Brewery, Devil and the Deep, Symposium Brew Pub, and others.

Other great places to visit in Galveston include Moody’s Mansion, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum, and The Strand District (where the Galveston Island Railroad Museum is, along with an array of shops and businesses including Hotel Galvez and Spa).

Sam Houston National Forest

For a taste of the western edge of the Piney Woods, beautiful hiking trails, great camping, and even places to canoe or kayak in order to get a different perspective on the environment, the Sam Houston National Forest is absolutely one of the best day trips from Houston.

For a getaway that feels worlds apart from the sprawling city, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the forest.

Navasota + Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site

Known for its excellent antique and interesting historical sites connected to Texas history, Navasota is one of the best Houston day trips for those interested in history.

Circle P Antiques and Collectibles, Bluebonnet Village Collectible, Pink Champagne Antiques, and Stonecroft Marketplace are just a few of the shops where you can find wonderful vintage items in Navasota.

Aside from antiquing, Navasota is also near several historical sites, including Washington-on-the-Brazos Historical site (where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed) and the Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site (an Inn and store restored to their 1850s glory).

Houston Day Trips Under 2 Hours Away

College station.

College Station is the home to the beautiful, historic, and enormous Texas A&M University.

The campus itself is celebrated for its beauty and houses the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. The museum features artifacts like the Presidential limousine and a replica Oval Office.

After the museum, you can stop for a picnic next door at Research Park. The Sam Houston Sanders Corp of Cadets Center is also located on the Texas A&M campus.

Of course, the best reason for a Houston day trip to College Station is for football: if you’re in town at the right time and can get tickets, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a game at historic Kyle Field!

You can also visit the Brazos Valley Natural History Museum or the Children’s Museum in nearby Bryan and stop and have a bite to eat at Lamar and Niki’s Pit Barbeque and Soul Food on your way back home.

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge

This is the place to come to watch the wildlife!

Hike the nature trails, hunt waterfowl, fish, boat, or take a guided walk and learn about the natural resources Texas has to offer.

Visit the Butterfly Garden for the spectacular flowers, plants, and butterflies, or The Willows to see the migrating birds in the spring and fall.

1 hour, 20 minutes.

When in Beaumont, the most popular thing to do is to visit the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum. This is a living museum that recreates the experience of life in a boomtown at the start of the 20th century.

Don’t miss the Lucas Gusher re-enactment and be careful not to get caught in a (staged) old-fashioned gun fight!

Other museums in Beaumont include the McFaddin-Ward House Museum, the Fire Museum of Texas, and the Clifton Steamboat Museum.

Beaumont Botanical Gardens offers paved pathways and plenty of benches to rest on while enjoying their modern and antique roses, other flower varieties, and native plants. The gardens also house the Warren Loose Conservatory.

Don’t forget to stop by the gigantic, dalmatian-speckled fire hydrant downtown–it’s one of the most memorable roadside attractions in Texas !

1 hour, 15 minutes.

Day Trips Under 3 Hours From Houston

These next couple of day trips from Houston require a disclaimer: committing to one of these means a very long day in the car, and in order to make them feasible, you really need to avoid traffic as much as possible (a big ask in Houston, I know), which means a very, very early start.

However, if you’re short on time and want to see some of the most iconic places in Texas, these spots are doable as Houston day trips.

With as many as 100 live performances on one night and the home of some of the planet’s most iconic music festivals, the capital of Texas is proudly known as the live music capital of the world.

Be sure to stroll down South Congress to sample the eclectic boutiques and some of Austin’s most popular pieces of street art.

From there, enjoy some outdoor fun as you, hike, swim, or canoe at Zilker Park, climb Mount Bonnell for some spectacular views or jump into the popular Barton Springs Pool in order to experience one of Austin’s best swimming spots .

To learn a bit about Texas history and government, consider touring the state capitol building, the governor’s mansion, or the Bullock Texas State History Museum. The LBJ Presidential Library is also located in Austin and has several interesting features including an LBJ robot.

Cap off the night by experiencing some of Austin’s iconic nightlife, whether that’s on Dirty Sixth (popular with students and visitors), West Sixth (a bit of a more refined crowd, and still lots of fun), or over on Rainey Street.

2 hours, 27 minutes.

If you take a day trip to San Marcos, it’s generally with the intention of doing one of two things: floating the river, or shopping at the largest outlet mall in the USA… and both are fantastic reasons to visit San Marcos.

There are also plenty of other things to see in and around San Marcos, though: consider going snorkeling (yes, snorkeling in Texas–the water is absolutely clear enough!), hunting down some of the city’s colorful murals, or going for a glass-bottom boat tour as part of your day trip from Houston.

2 hours, 40 minutes.

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Add Armand Bayou Nature Center to your list. abnc.org. Hike 5 miles of trails, programs, kayaking, pontoon boat trips, 1895 farm house…

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The 18 Best Day Trips From Houston for Every Style of Adventure

Day trips from Houston include adventures for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs, all within just a few hours’ drive from downtown.

Houston is not only the gateway to the Gulf Coast and a fun city filled with beautiful museums, but it is also perfectly situated for some epic getaways. Day trips from Houston include adventures for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs, within just a 3-hour drive from downtown. If you need a break from the city, here are our suggestions for the best places to catch a breather and enjoy the Houston area.

Explore Space City and the Surrounding Area

Let’s Roam has hundreds of scavenger hunts in Texas and all over the world, including art walks, ghost tours , and pub crawls . Learn all about the area of your choice, tackle trivia, snap photos, and make memories. Try one today!

D ay Trips From Houston

Distances and travel times in this guide are calculated using Google Maps at the time of writing, using Houston City Hall, in downtown Houston, as the departure point.  Travel times may vary for your trip based on the day and time you choose to travel. 

1. Blue Bell Creamery In Brenham

Distance: 76 miles

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 mins

Encircled by Bluebonnet fields, the small town of Brenham feels a world away from the big city. The area has a host of fine wineries on its wine trail and several beautiful spas, but a relaxing day in the field is not Brenham’s claim to fame. The quaint town is home to the one and only Blue Bell Creamery . The south’s favorite ice cream, Blue Bell was started in 1907 in “The Little Creamery” in Brenham. A handful of local businessmen got together and decided to make butter out of the excess cream of local farmers. A few years later, they started making ice cream for their neighbors. In 1930, they changed the name to reflect the Bluebonnets that grew nearby, and the rest was history. 

Stop in and learn more about the history of Blue Bell, the town that made it famous, and the ice cream production process at the visitor center. Try a fresh scoop in the parlor and stop in the country store for a souvenir of your trip. Before you leave, stroll through the downtown historic district’s shops and boutiques and take a ride on the sweet, antique carousel.

2. Blessington Farms

Distance: 48 miles

Travel Time: 48 mins

Blessington Farms is a great Houston day trip for families. It’s part family farm, part amusement park. Not only can you pick your own seasonal produce, including bushels of strawberries in summer and big beautiful pumpkins in the fall, but they also have a ton of family-friendly games. 

Kids will love the tug of war, rope maze, and trolley swing. They can also take a hayride, climb the tire mountain, or go fishing on their 2-acre lake. They also have a petting zoo that includes camels! This place is a true hidden gem. It’s family-owned and operated, and a perfect place for your family to spend the day!

3. Railean Distillery

Distance: 38.8 miles

Travel Time: 47 mins

While there are many distilleries in Texas to visit, the Railean Distillery has a claim to several “firsts.” It was the first distillery in the Lone Star State to make rum and the first to make agave spirits. They also founded the American Rum Association. 

The distillery is located in San Leon, a small town that they describe as “a small drinking community with a big fishing problem.” Take a tour of the distillery and learn about the history and production of Texas spirits, then get initiated in the pirate guild. The on-site bar is dedicated to an old pirate-themed joint called “Buccaneer Bar” that was destroyed by Hurricane Ike. The founders were drinking in the original bar when they decided to start their own distillery, so now they pay it tribute. Learn the secret toast and earn your mug. Railean is a really good time, but you might consider a big meal of oysters at Pier 6 Seafood and Oyster House to sober up before heading back to the city.

4. Stark Museum of Art

Distance: 108 miles

Travel Time: 1 hour 40 mins

Located in the easternmost city in Texas, on the Louisiana border, Orange Texas is a small city, but it is home to one of the nation’s largest collections of American Western Art—the Stark Museum of Art . Peruse paintings, prints, sculptures, and rare books and drawings depicting the people and wildlife of the American frontier. 

The collection includes works from John James Audobon, Georgia O’Keefe, and John Mix Stanley. Other exhibits include Native American basketry, pottery, and jewelry. Make sure to see Steuben’s “United States in Crystal” glassware set. The delicate chalices represent each state with a personal inscription, etched in crystal. 

While you are in town, stop by the incredible Queen Anne mansion of W.H. Stark. The house is stunning and so is the antique collection!

5. Space Center Houston

Distance: 26.5 miles

Travel Time: 27 mins

Want to touch a moon rock? You are in luck. The Starship Gallery Artifact Museum at the Space Center Houston will let you! Ok, it’s a little confusing here. The Space Center Houston is the official visitor center at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. It is the headquarters for the astronaut corps and is one of NASA’s training centers.

The space center is loaded with interactive activities and space-themed education. It boasts over 400 things to do, including touring the Apollo Command Module and touring a replica space shuttle, perched upon its giant carrier. The museum has a huge number of artifacts from moon rocks to astronaut spacesuits. If you want a thrill, take a ride on the Lunar Orbit Simulator! Guided tours on the NASA Tram are also available for a behind-the-scenes look at humans in space. 

Space Center Houston is a blast. It is located just outside the city and makes an easy and educational day trip for homeschoolers or just a fun day out for the whole family.

6. The Alamo

Distance: 196 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours 55 mins

“Remember the Alamo”? San Antonio is pushing it for a day trip because there is so much to see and do in this beautiful city! If you choose to stay the weekend, make sure to stroll the Riverwalk, hit up the rides at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, and catch a show at Sea World. 

If you are only going for the day though, stop to see the star of the city, the Alamo ! The beautiful old girl was originally built as a mission, but during the Texas Revolution, a key battle was fought here between the Mexican army and a Texas regiment. The battle resulted in the death of both Davy Crockett and James Bowie under the brutal attack of General Santa Anna. The battle was so brutal, in fact, that many Texans and Tejanos joined the Texas army afterward, and the Revolution was ended shortly thereafter, in favor of Texas.

Take a guided tour of the battleground and structure. Explore artifacts used in the battle and engage in demonstrations by skilled actors on frontier life in the 1800s. The Alamo requires advanced timed tickets to visit.

7. Creole Nature Trail

Distance: 133 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours

The Creole Nature Trail is pure wilderness in the marshlands of Louisiana. The trail is over 180 miles, running through multiple nature and wildlife reserves. It’s not a trail so much as a road trip. Start your journey at the Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point and explore Cajun history, and the natural history of the area, through several unique interactive displays. The exhibit is free and helps you get a good grasp of what you will encounter on the trail. 

Then, move along the roadway to see birds, alligators, and stunning landscapes. There are beautiful viewpoints and manmade stops along the way. There also happens to be 26 miles of Gulf of Mexico shoreline to explore, so bring your seashell bucket and swimsuit! The Creole Nature Trail is one of the best day trips from Houston for nature lovers, and it is great for those who are unable to hike long distances or be on their feet for long periods.

8. George Bush Presidential Library and Museum

Distance: 96.9 miles

Travel Time: 1 hour 36 mins

George Bush, America’s 41st president, was also a Texas oilman. The George Bush Presidential Library and Muse um is located at Texas A&M University in College Station. The beautiful grounds include Barbara Bush Rose Garden, epic sculptures depicting the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the Bush family burial grounds. 

The museum and library contain millions of artifacts, including photographs, interactive videos, films, and archives detailing President Bush’s impressive life and his presidency. Some notable pieces include a 1947 Studebaker, a slab of the Berlin Wall, replicas of President Bush’s Camp David room, and the Oval Office. The museum also details the life of First Lady Barbara Bush and her accomplishments in the areas of literacy and AIDS awareness. 

The library and museum deserve a few hours of your time. The grounds are beautiful, and there is so much information to take in. It’s the perfect day trip for any history lover!

9. Texas Energy Museum

Distance: 88.1 miles

Travel Time: 1 hour 21 mins

For a deeper look at the industry that helped build the Lone Star State, head for Beaumont and the Texas Energy Museum . Learn everything there is to know about the Texas oil industry from animated robots. The robot “actors” will immerse you in the story of the Spindletop gusher. Erupting in 1901, it was the first major oil find in Texas and kicked off the boom. 

The permanent exhibit covers everything from the geology that makes oil production possible to the advanced chemistry used in refinement. See archives of historical information and a plethora of equipment used throughout the years. Keep a watch on their website for special events and presentations!

10. Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston Island

Distance: 55.7 miles

Travel Time: 1 hour

Summer in Texas is hot, and if you have kids in tow, there is no better day trip from Houston than hitting the fake waves at Schlitterbahn Waterpark . Twenty-six acres of ridiculous fun, with over 33 rides and attractions, in short, Schlitterbahn is epic. 

There are numerous no-entry beaches, fast water slides, “not so lazy” rivers, and even indoor and heated pools. You can reserve a private cabana for your family to hang out in, do some shopping at the merch stores, and enjoy a full day of meals in the park’s numerous restaurants. 

Galveston Island is a super fun family vacation spot. You can visit Kemah boardwalk (later), Moody Gardens, Pleasure Pier overwater amusement park, and some of the beautiful beaches of the Bolivar Peninsula … if you decide to make it a weekend getaway!

11. Museum of the Gulf Coast Port Arthur

Distance: 89.6 miles

Port Arthur is a small city on the Gulf of Mexico that is famous for birding and fishing! The city has the good fortune of being located on two migratory bird paths, the Mississippi and the Central. Storks, roadrunners, colorful pink spoonbills, owls, warblers, and flycatchers call the region home, either permanently or seasonally. The habitat of the region is as varied as the bird species you might see, so take your time and enjoy the views. Be careful though, where there are birds, there are alligators! Pleasure Island is one of the best places to see seabirds and many forest species are found in the Sabine Woods. 

This area of the Gulf Coast is a mix of freshwater lakes and marshlands and saltwater inlets. So, as you can imagine, fishing is kind of a big deal. Kayak fishing around the port is popular, as well as shore fishing from the 14 miles of shoreline on Sabine Lake. Chartered fishing expeditions are also available from multiple companies in Port Arthur.

Port Arthur also has an interesting and unexpected trail on which you might find a little peace. Due to its location, the area has drawn travelers and workers from all over the world and many different cultural and spiritual backgrounds. They are all represented on Port Arthur’s Faith Trail. Visit the Buu Mon Buddhist Temple, Our Lady of Guadelupe Catholic Shrine, Queen of Peace Shrine and Gardens, and the beautiful stained glass of Jewish Temple Emanuel. 

Finish your day with a plate full of the local delicacy … crawfish! The spicy Cajun mudbugs are the perfect end to a coastal day! You can get a hearty plate at Reel Cajun Seafood Restaurant & Bar .

12. Kemah Boardwalk

Distance: 33.1 miles

Travel Time: 37 mins

Kemah is delightful. The city on Galveston Bay is just 40 minutes from Houston and has plenty of charming attractions to keep you busy for the day. Kemah has its own Lighthouse District to explore, and if you are brave enough, you can even take a guided spooky tour of the reportedly haunted houses. The seaside boardwalk is lined with shops, food shacks, and classic rides. Horse-drawn carriages line the streets, ready to take tourists on an adventure.

Kemah Aquarium is very entertaining for children. The boardwalk also has a rainforest exhibit and touch tanks, where you can feel a real stingray at Stringray Reef. The exhibit includes not only stingray tanks but also piranhas, snakes, scorpions, and turtles. Kemah is also a hub for fishing and sailing charters. 

13. Goose Island State Park

Distance: 180 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours 45 mins

Goose Island State Park is home to the 1,000-year-old tree. The park is home to the Southern Live Oak, a tree with a 35-foot circumference and more than 90-foot spread. Goose Island is enclosed by two bodies of water, Aransas Bay and Lake St. Charles. While swimming is not suggested, the island is a haven for fishermen. 

The waters are teeming with Speckled Trout, Red Drum, and flounder. The island is also popular with campers and hikers. 

14. Sam Houston National Forest

Distance: 59.5 miles

Located less than an hour north of Houston, the Sam Houston National Forest is one of four national forests in Texas and is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. It contains 163,037 acres of land between Conroe, Cleveland, and Richards. The forest is an outdoorsman’s paradise. It’s laced with fantastic hiking trails, and birders come to catch a glimpse of the endangered Red-Cockaded Woodpecker and the national bird of the USA, the Bald Eagle. 

The area is also popular with off-roaders. So bring your buggy and get muddy. Just don’t hit the horseback riders. Hunting, boating, canoeing, and camping are all available in the forest, so no matter what your outdoor poison, the Sam Houston National Forest has you covered!

15. Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge

Distance: 73.2 miles

Travel Time: 1 hour 23 mins

The Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is over 34,000 acres of bayous and floodplain that creates a perfect habitat for migratory birds and alligators. But that’s not all, the refuge is also home to bobcats and whistling ducks. 

You can explore on your own or take a ranger-guided tour through the marshlands. If you are an animal lover, Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is a perfect day trip for you. Just make sure to put on the bug spray. This area is humid!

16. San Jacinto Battleground

Distance: 23.2 miles

Travel Time: 26 mins

Remember that Alamo loss from earlier. Well, all those really ticked off troops from that battle gathered about 6 weeks later and destroyed the Mexican forces at the Battle of San Jacinto and won the independence of what we now call the great state of Texas. The battle reportedly lasted all of 18 minutes. We aren’t sure who got out the timer, but nonetheless, the battle was short and decisive.

There are three connected sites to visit, Battleship Texas State Historic Site (currently closed for renovations), the San Jacinto Battleground , and the San Jacinto Monument . The San Jacinto Museum is also worth a stop for an awesome video production explaining the importance of the battle and over 2,000 pieces of art and artifacts from the era. 

Distance: 162 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours 32 mins

Texas’s lively capital, Austin, is a world away from the rest of the state. It is the live music capital of the world and is dripping with hipster vibes. It’s home to the music and media festivals Austin City Limits and South by Southwest. It’s a fun city and a great day trip for foodies and art lovers. 

Visit the Umlauf Sculpture Gardens , the Zilker Botanical Gardens , or go biking on one of the many nature trails Austin has to offer. For more ways to spend your day in Austin, check out our guide to the “ Best Museums in Austin .”

18. Brazos Bend State Park

Distance: 45.6 miles

Travel Time: 49 mins

Spend a day in the wetlands hiking the Creekfield Lake Nature Trail. It’s a very short, paved trail that will give you a glimpse of the stunning landscape that surrounds you. Watch out for the slightly weird bronze animals lurking about. 

Brazos Bend State Park also has 13 miles of multi-use trails that are popular for horseback riding and biking. You can also book a guided ecological tour through the park and gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of the wetlands ecosystem. It’s a rare South Texas park, with no beachfront, so it is often less crowded and a place to truly escape into the sights and sounds of nature. 

Closing Thoughts

Houston is a great city that is often bypassed as tourists head for the beaches of the Gulf Coast. Don’t make that mistake! Take a few days to explore this amazing city and the charming small towns that surround it. Let us know in the comments where you plan to visit!

For a rainy day in Houston, or just to see some of the best art in the state, our guide to the “ Best Museums in Houston ” has you covered. We have done the research for you and detailed all the best cultural institutes to visit while in Houston. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for day trips from Houston ? Space City is perfectly situated. History buffs appreciate the Alamo, nature lovers enjoy Sam Houston National Forest, and kids love the Kemah Boardwalk!

The Houston area should have plenty to keep you busy! Try a scavenger hunt of Houston’s Museum District , visit Space Center Houston, or delight your tastebuds at Railean Distillery.

Take the kids on a Houston scavenger hunt or go on a day trip ! Visit the beaches of Galveston, stroll along the Kemah Boardwalk, spend a day at the Schlitterbahn waterpark, or tour the Space Center.

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15 Best Day Trips from Houston

When you hear the word ‘Houston’ to you instantly think ‘we have a problem’? Far from a problematic place to visit, Houston is an easily accessible and welcoming Texan city.

Home to the pioneering NASA Space Centre as well as the Houston Grand Opera and the much loved theatre district, Houston has a lot to explore.

Away from this buzzing and vibrant city lies a host of things to do, from breweries to museums, from shopping centres to National Forests, Houston is a great base for the avid day tripper.

Let’s take a look at a selection of the 15 best day trips from Houston.

1. Galveston Island

Easily the most famous coastal holiday destination in Texas is Galveston Island.

Lying just 50-miles from downtown Houston, Galveston Island has a rich and varied history and despite its age has lost none of it’s abundant charm.

With 32-miles of beach to explore, plenty of historical gems lying in wait and dozens of antique stops a trip to Galveston Island transports you to the Victorian era where life was simpler and much slower paced.

From Galveston Island it is possible to head out on a boat into the Gulf of Mexico to cruise for dolphins.

2. Tanger Outlets

Tanger Outlets is one of the leading shopping centres in Texas.

Offering massive discounts on high-end, luxury brands, if you want a new wardrobe Tanger is the place to head.

With incredible savings to be had, a wonderful selection of restaurants to explore and a relaxing atmosphere too, Tanger Outlets is a great day out from Houston.

Make the most of the day and saunter from shop to shop taking in the unbelievable value and taking time to ponder on what to purchase.

With shops catering to men, women and children, the whole family can enjoy Tanger Outlets.

3. NASA Space Centre

The NASA Space Centre is one of the most exciting places to visit in all of the United States of America.

In the Starship Gallery Artefact Museum you can actually touch a moon rock.

If you’re daring enough you can experience what it is like to be an astronaut and take a ride in the lunar orbiter simulator.

The exhibits have been created by NASA in conjunction with Disney and it shows.

This level of interactive learning is not found anywhere else making the NASA Space Centre a fascinating and enlightening day trip from Houston for everyone, not just the wannabe astronauts.

4. Blessington Farms

Whatever the weather and whatever the season Blessington Farms is a great day trip from Houston.

A rare opportunity to pick your own fruit and vegetables, to learn about farming and to connect to the land itself, Blessington Farms are a real hidden gem.

In the fall you can pick your own pumpkins and there is an overwhelming selection to choose from.

In the summer you can pick punnet after punnet of strawberries to take home too.

Perfect for young families or if you’re travelling with children, Blessington Farms offers good old fashioned family fun.

5. Southern Star Brewery

Pioneering craft beer in Texas since 2007 the Southern Star Brewery are one of the best loved brewers in the state.

Due to rapid increase in demand for small scale craft beers, in 2016 Southern Star Brewery moved into a much bigger venue with a 13-acre back yard and custom built tap room.

A visit to Southern Star Brewery offers you the opportunity to learn about the brewing process and how the Southern Star Beers get their distinct flavour.

Tours of the brewery are offered from Thursdays to Sundays at 2pm and 4pm.

6. Railean Rum Distillery

Texas is famed for its moonshine production during prohibition, although those years are firmly behind us Texans still have a fascination with home brews.

None so true of Railean Rum Distillery.

Located in San Leon which is described as being a ‘small drinking community with a large fishing problem’ Railean makes rum for wannabe pirates, they jest.

Producing a wide range of Rum, Vodka, Whiskey and Agave Spirits too it’s easy to get a little tipsy while tasting at Railean Distillery.

Throughout the tour you’ll learn about the distilling, ageing and bottling process.

7. Sam Houston National Forest

As one of four national forests in Texas the Sam Houston National Forest is the most popular and located just 50 miles from Houston city centre.

Hiking is the most common pastime in Sam Houston National Forest as well as mountain biking.

The Lone Star Hiking Trail is accessible year round and is never over crowded.

Along the trail you pass through creeks, rivers and streams and wind through several different kinds of vegetation and ecosystems each vital to the life of the forest in their own individual way.

As the state capital of Texas Austin is well connected to the state’s fellow major cities.

An easy 2 hour drive from Houston, Austin has a lot on offer.

Famed for its quirky and exotic music scene there are countless live music venues to explore in Austin.

With a rich musical history Austin provided a jump start for some of the world’s most famous blues, rock and country artists.

If you fancy taking a slower pace in Austin then perhaps rent a boat and paddle around Lady Bird Lake in Zilker Park or take a dip in the Barton Spring Pool.

9. San Antonio

With a strong colonial history San Antonio is one of Texas’ most developing cities.

Home to The Alamo, the 18th-Century Spanish mission building has been preserved for all to enjoy and learn about in the form of a museum.

The Alamo stands as a marker for the bloody battle of 1836 where Texas fought for independence from Mexico.

Aside from the historical elements of San Antonio there is a lot of modern culture to explore and nature to enjoy too.

The San Antonio Riverwalk and the Natural Bridge Caverns, not to mention Six Flags Fiesta Texas, there is something for everyone down in San Antonio.

As the most populated city in Texas Dallas is a vibrant and bustling city home to 1.3 million people.

Modern and happening Dallas has a wealth of historical and cultures spots to explore.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza shares a thorough exhibit of the presidency of late John F. Kennedy and insights into his untimely assassination.

The Dallas Museum of Art displays artistic creations from yesteryear and the modern day and is open late into the evenings.

With displays dating back 5,000 years the Dallas Museum of Art has one of the most impressive collections in the south.

11. USS Lexington

Affectionately names ‘Lady Lex’ the USS Lexington CV-2 played a significant role in the US Navy from 1925 to 1942 when it sunk in the Battle of the Coral Sea.

The USS Lexington combines a tour of real US Navy ships and informative exhibitions about the impact the US Navy had on modern warfare.

The tour of the USS Lexington itself spans over 11 ship decks.

During your visit you can experience a flight simulator and try and land on this epic aircraft carrier, or fly out a virtual battle station.

12. Mustang Island

For lovers of the coastal breeze a visit to Mustang Island makes for a memorable and invigorating day trip from Houston.

Spanning across five miles of the Gulf of Mexico coast Mustang Island is home to over 400 different species of bird as well as the endangered Atlantic green sea turtles.

An active nesting site for sea turtles park officials urge visitors to be as conscientious as possible when it comes to exploring the beaches.

Naturally bird watching is a popular way to spend a day on Mustang Island, as well as coastal hikes and even a swim in the sea.

13. Stark Museum of Art

For lovers of art and anthropology the Stark Museum of Art is a must-visit when in Houston.

Home to one of the world’s largest collections of Western American art there is a lifetime of knowledge stored within the grand museum walls.

The pieces focus on dramatic landscapes, lifelike depictions of people and the rich and varied wildlife found in the wild west.

In addition to Western American art Stark too houses a vast collection of indigenous American Indian artwork, manuscripts, costumes and books.

Entry to the Stark Museum of Art is free of charge for all.

14. New Orleans

Up on the Mississippi River in Louisiana is the iconic city of New Orleans.

Known also as ‘Big Easy’ New Orleans is the musical capital of the USA. Known the world over for it’s blues and country scene there is a buzz and vibrancy to New Orleans that is good for the soul.

Everywhere you turn you’ll be greeted by famous live music venues, bars and more.

A true melting pot of cultures, New Orleans is home to a big French community as well as thriving African communities too.

This is a welcoming, open minded and fun city that should be experienced at least once in every lifetime.

15. Sabine National Forest

Tucked away on the East Texas-Louisiana border lies the Sabine National Forest.

Mostly a forest of pine, Sabine has a number of easy going and picturesque hiking trails that can be enjoyed on a day trip from Houston.

An afternoon boating on the Toledo Bend Reservoir is relaxing and enchanting.

Should you arrive at Sabine National Forest and not want to leave it is possible to camp in the park for a small fee.

During a day trip to Sabine National Forest you can head to Red Hills Lake and enjoy a picnic at the Boles Field shelters before heading back to Houston for dinner.

15 Best Day Trips from Houston:

• Galveston Island
• Tanger Outlets
• NASA Space Centre
• Blessington Farms
• Southern Star Brewery
• Railean Rum Distillery
• Sam Houston National Forest
• San Antonio
• USS Lexington
• Mustang Island
• Stark Museum of Art
• New Orleans
• Sabine National Forest

16 Best Day Trips From Houston, Texas (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for amazing day trips from Houston? Here are our top 16 ideas for Houston day trips you’ll want to add to your itinerary!

Houston is an incredible city to visit in Texas. Full of museums, attractions, and cuisine, Houston could easily entertain travelers for days.

But if you have time, venture outside the city limits on one of these day trips from Houston!

You can stick close to Houston’s downtown and explore the Houston Space Center, an iconic museum affiliated with the NASA Johnson Space Center.

Or you can head down to the coast and visit a tranquil island, swim in the Gulf, or take the family to an amusement park.

Nature lovers can head to Sam Houston National Forest to see local wildlife and immerse themselves in the wilderness.

Travelers interested in history and culture can visit interesting attractions like the Texas Energy Museum in Beaumont, the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi, or the George Bush Presidential Library in College Station.

No matter where your interests lie, these day trips from Houston have something for everyone and allow you to explore some of the best places in Texas .

Before you set off on your day trips, make the most of the city with our 3 Days In Houston Itinerary !

Table of Contents

Sam Houston National Forest

Space center houston, corpus christi, brazos bend state park, anahuac national wildlife refuge, goose island state park, galveston island, village creek state park, lake livingston, san antonio, sea rim state park, port arthur, college station, best day trips from houston.

Here are the best day trips from Houston! From exploring nature to visiting historical sites, to indulging in some amusement park fun, the Lone Star State is incredibly diverse.

Whether you want to admire the forest views from George Observatory in Brazos Bend or take on a beach day trip in Galveston, these day trips from Houston hit all the highlights. If you don’t already have a car, consider renting one in Houston so you can get to all these amazing locations.

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 Houston: 48 miles
• Driving time: 48 minutes

Sam Houston National Forest, situated in southeastern Texas, stands as a testament to the state’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

Encompassing over 163,000 acres of woodlands, this national forest makes a fun day trip from Houston for anyone who loves nature. Named after the iconic Texan leader Sam Houston, the forest boasts a diverse ecosystem, featuring towering pine and hardwood trees, pristine lakes, and meandering streams.

Outdoor activities abound, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, mountain biking, bird watching, and fishing. The Lone Star Hiking Trail, stretching over 128 miles, winds through the heart of Sam Houston National Forest and covers all the highlights.

Sam Houston National Forest plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, serving as a refuge for numerous plant and animal species. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, armadillos, and a plethora of bird species.

Conservation initiatives within the forest aim to maintain a delicate balance between human enjoyment and the preservation of the region’s biodiversity.

As a designated National Forest, Sam Houston stands as a living legacy, inviting visitors to connect with nature and fostering an understanding of the importance of environmental preservation.

Check out more of the best things to do in Texas !

• Distance from Houston: 26 miles
• Driving time: 26 minutes

Though Space Center Houston is technically part of the city, we’ll include it in our list of the best day trips from Houston because you can easily spend an entire day here!

Space Center Houston, located in Clear Lake, Texas, stands as a captivating testament to humanity’s exploration of the cosmos. Affiliated with the NASA Johnson Space Center, this dynamic space museum serves as a gateway to the wonders of space and the rich history of America’s space program.

Visitors to Space Center Houston embark on an immersive journey through the evolution of space exploration, with exhibits that showcase historic artifacts, cutting-edge technology, and interactive displays.

The center is home to a remarkable collection of spacecraft, including the iconic Apollo 17 command module and the Space Shuttle Independence, offering visitors a rare opportunity to get up close to vehicles that have ventured beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Space Center Houston is its educational programs and engaging presentations that provide insights into the complexities of space travel. From astronaut encounters to simulated space missions, the center offers hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity and ignite a passion for science and exploration.

With its Space Center Theater and educational outreach initiatives, Space Center Houston plays a pivotal role in fostering an appreciation for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields, making it a must-visit destination for both space enthusiasts and those eager to delve into the mysteries of the cosmos.

• Distance from Houston: 214 miles
• Driving time: 3 miles

One of the top beach day trips from Houston is Corpus Christ! Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico in southern Texas, this vibrant coastal city is known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and maritime charm.

Boasting a scenic bayfront, the city offers a picturesque setting with the iconic Corpus Christi Bay Bridge serving as a backdrop. The sparkling waters of the Gulf provide the perfect playground for water enthusiasts, making Corpus Christi a haven for activities such as windsurfing, fishing, and sailing.

The city’s pristine beaches, including Padre Island National Seashore and Mustang Island State Park, draw visitors seeking sun, sand, and relaxation. On the other hand, the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay add educational and historical dimensions to the city’s attractions.

Corpus Christi embraces its cultural diversity, evident in its lively arts scene, festivals, and culinary offerings. The city hosts events such as Buc Days, a celebration of its maritime heritage, and the Corpus Christi Festival of the Arts, showcasing the talents of local artists.

With a delectable array of seafood options, from Gulf Coast shrimp to fresh fish tacos, Corpus Christi’s cuisine reflects its coastal location. As a gateway to the Padre Island National Seashore and Mustang Island State Park and a melting pot of culture and recreation, Corpus Christi provides an excellent day trip full of coastal beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural richness.

• Distance from Houston: 46 miles
• Driving time: 49 minutes

Another top Houston day trip is Brazos Bend State Park. This sprawling natural oasis encompasses over 5,000 acres and has lush landscapes, dense forests, wetlands, and meandering waterways.

The centerpiece of the park is the Brazos River, whose slow-moving currents wind through the terrain, creating an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife. Nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers flock to Brazos Bend State Park to witness the abundant bird species that call the park home, including colorful waterfowl and majestic bald eagles.

Apart from its rich biodiversity, Brazos Bend State Park is a haven for outdoor activities. The park features an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that cater to all skill levels, providing opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems and observe wildlife up close.

Fishing is a popular pastime in the park’s lakes and rivers, where anglers can try their luck at catching bass, catfish, and other freshwater species.

With well-equipped campgrounds, educational programs, and a George Observatory for stargazing, Brazos Bend State Park is one of the best day trips from Houston if you want to explore the Texas Gulf Coast.

Heading north? Read our list of the best things to do in Dallas .

• Distance from Houston: 62 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour

Another beautiful day trip idea on the Texas Gulf, Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge stands as a critical sanctuary for both migratory and resident bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Spanning over 34,000 acres, this expansive refuge is characterized by diverse ecosystems, including coastal prairies, freshwater marshes, and expansive mudflats. The refuge plays a crucial role in the conservation of habitat for numerous bird species, with over 300 recorded on the premises, including waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds.

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is strategically positioned along the Central Flyway, making it a vital stopover point for migratory birds during their journeys between North and South America.

Beyond its significance for avian life, Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental education.

Visitors can explore a network of trails and levees that traverse the marshes, providing excellent vantage points for birdwatching and wildlife observation. The refuge also features an auto tour route, allowing visitors to experience the diverse habitats from the comfort of their vehicles.

Educational programs and interpretive exhibits at the visitor center contribute to a deeper understanding of the local ecology and the importance of wetland conservation.

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge serves as a testament to the importance of preserving natural habitats, ensuring the well-being of both resident and migratory species in this ecologically rich corner of Texas.

• Distance from Houston: 41 miles
• Driving time: 44 minutes

Texas City is a bustling industrial hub with a rich history and a strategic position on the shores of Galveston Bay. It’s one of the most unique Houston day trips for those who want to learn about Texas history and industry.

Known for its petrochemical industry, Texas City is home to one of the largest refineries in the United States. The city’s industrial presence is complemented by a resilient community that has weathered challenges, including the devastating Texas City Disaster of 1947, a ship explosion that had far-reaching consequences.

Despite its industrial focus, the city has a lot to offer in terms of recreation and culture. The Texas City Dike, a long seawall stretching into Galveston Bay, provides a scenic destination for fishing, birdwatching, and enjoying waterfront views. The city also boasts parks, museums, and events that celebrate its maritime heritage and vibrant community spirit.

Texas City has evolved into a diverse and dynamic city, not just defined by its industrial landscape but also by its commitment to community development. The city features family-friendly neighborhoods, schools, and parks that contribute to its overall appeal.

The Texas City Museum showcases the city’s history, including its role in the petrochemical industry and the aftermath of the 1947 disaster.

As a part of the Greater Houston metropolitan area, Texas City stands as a testament to the resilience of communities in the face of industrial challenges, offering a blend of economic opportunity, coastal charm, and a community that continues to shape its identity.

Explore more of the Lone Star State with a 10-Day Texas Road Trip !

• Distance from Houston: 184 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 45 minutes

Goose Island State Park beckons those on a Houston day trip with its coastal charm and diverse ecosystems. Situated near the historic town of Rockport, this state park is renowned for its ancient and iconic “Big Tree,” a massive coastal live oak that is estimated to be over 1,000 years old.

The park’s picturesque setting along St. Charles and Aransas Bays offers a serene backdrop for a variety of recreational activities, including birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking. Goose Island State Park is a haven for birders, especially during the winter months when the rare whooping cranes make their temporary residence in the area.

In addition to its natural wonders, Goose Island State Park provides a range of facilities for camping and day-use activities. Campers can choose from a variety of camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and screened shelters.

The park’s fishing pier is a popular spot for anglers, offering the opportunity to catch a variety of coastal species. With its well-maintained trails, bird blinds, and educational programs, Goose Island State Park invites visitors to connect with the coastal environment and appreciate the beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast.

This state park provides a welcoming day trip from Houston for those looking to explore the coastal wonders of the Lone Star State.

• Distance from Houston: 50 miles
• Driving time: 52 minutes

Galveston Island is easily one of the best day trips from Houston! This unique and enchanting destination has nature, an amusement park, and plenty of other unique attractions.

Visitors can explore the historic districts, such as the Strand, where Victorian-era architecture sets the scene for charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

The island’s East End Historic District, with its well-preserved mansions and tree-lined streets, offers a step back in time, evoking the grandeur of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Join a guided ghost tour of Galveston so you can learn about the interesting and spooky history behind the area’s buildings!

Galveston Island is also celebrated for its beaches, which stretch along the Gulf of Mexico. The Seawall Boulevard, a bustling promenade overlooking the sandy shores, is a popular spot for strolling, biking, and taking in panoramic ocean views.

Pleasure Pier, extending over the Gulf waters, adds a touch of amusement park excitement, complete with thrilling rides and a lively carnival atmosphere.

Moody Gardens is another gem of Galveston. With attractions like the Rainforest Pyramid and a tranquil botanical garden, Moody Gardens is a must-visit on the island.

With its diverse attractions, maritime heritage, and resilient community spirit, Galveston Island stands as one of the most popular Houston day trips!

• Distance from Houston: 98 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Village Creek State Park, situated in the piney woods of southeastern Texas, offers a serene retreat for nature lovers seeking refuge in a tranquil natural setting. Measuring over 1,090 acres, the park is characterized by its diverse ecosystems, featuring dense forests, bottomland hardwoods, and the meandering waters of Village Creek.

The park’s pristine landscapes provide a haven for a variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.

Numerous hiking trails wind through the park, offering opportunities for exploration and glimpses of the East Texas wilderness. Canoeing and kayaking on Village Creek are popular activities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of the park while navigating its scenic waterways.

Village Creek State Park provides camping facilities, enabling visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the beauty of the natural surroundings. The park’s campground offers both tent and RV sites, allowing guests to camp beneath the towering pine trees and under the canopy of stars.

With its emphasis on preserving the natural environment, Village Creek State Park stands as a testament to Texas’s commitment to conservation, offering one of the best day trips from Houston.

Related: Check out these great road trips from Houston !

• Distance from Houston: 86 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 25 minutes

Lake Livingston is another one of the best Houston day trips. The lake is one of the largest reservoirs in the state at just over 90,000 acres. Situated in the scenic Piney Woods region, Lake Livingston offers a picturesque setting surrounded by towering pine trees and lush vegetation.

The reservoir is formed by the Trinity River and provides a haven for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. Boasting more than 450 miles of shoreline, Lake Livingston offers ample opportunities for anglers to catch a variety of fish, including catfish, bass, and crappie. The lake’s clear waters and peaceful coves create an ideal environment for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports.

Surrounding Lake Livingston, there are numerous parks, campgrounds, and marinas that cater to visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities the lake provides.

Lake Livingston State Park, located on the northwest shore, features campsites, hiking trails, and a designated swimming area, providing a perfect escape for families and nature enthusiasts.

The lake is not only a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways but also a vibrant community for those who choose to make its shores their home. Lake Livingston stands as a gem in the East Texas countryside, inviting individuals and families to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Read next: The Perfect 3 Days In San Antonio Itinerary

• Distance from Houston: 85 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

Beaumont is a southeast Texas city that combines historical significance with modern amenities, making it a unique day trip destination.

Known for its rich cultural heritage, Beaumont played a pivotal role in the Texas oil boom of the early 20th century, earning it the moniker “Spindletop,” after the famous oil field that sparked the boom.

The Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum and the Texas Energy Museum stand as a living testament to this era, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the sights and sounds of a bustling oil town.

The city also boasts architectural gems like the McFaddin-Ward House, a beautifully preserved Beaux-Arts mansion that offers insight into the lifestyle of a prominent Texas family from the early 20th century.

Modern Beaumont is a vibrant city with a diverse cultural scene and recreational opportunities. The downtown area, characterized by its historic buildings and tree-lined streets, is a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment.

The Neches River, which flows through the heart of Beaumont, adds a scenic touch to the city, with parks and trails along its banks providing a serene escape.

Travelers can also check out the Art Museum of Southeast Texas and the Julie Rogers Theatre, both of which contribute to Beaumont’s cultural vibrancy.

From exploring historical landmarks like the Texas Energy Museum to enjoying outdoor activities, Beaumont is a city that captivates both residents and visitors with its unique blend of history and modernity.

• Distance from Houston: 197 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours

At 3 hours from Houston, San Antonio is a bit of a trek and is probably better suited to a weekend trip. That said, if you only have time for a day trip to San Antonio, it’s worth it!

San Antonio is an iconic city with a rich cultural tapestry. The city’s crown jewel is the iconic Alamo, a former mission and site of a pivotal battle during the Texas Revolution. Visited by millions annually, the Alamo serves as a symbol of bravery and resilience, encapsulating the spirit of the Texan struggle for independence.

The surrounding historic district, with its preserved Spanish colonial architecture and lively ambiance, invites visitors to step back in time and explore San Antonio’s roots.

The River Walk, a meandering network of pedestrian pathways along the San Antonio River, is another iconic feature, lined with shops, restaurants, and vibrant entertainment venues. Illuminated by charmingly lit bridges and adorned with lush landscapes, the River Walk is a popular destination for leisurely strolls and boat rides.

San Antonio is also celebrated for its diverse cultural offerings and modern amenities. The city’s Market Square, one of the largest Mexican markets in the United States, is a lively hub where visitors can experience the flavors, colors, and traditions of Mexican and Texan cultures.

The Pearl District, a former brewery turned mixed-use development, showcases contemporary urban living with a blend of upscale boutiques, eateries, and cultural spaces.

San Antonio’s arts culture is evident in the McNay Art Museum and the San Antonio Museum of Art, both housing impressive collections spanning various periods and styles.

As a city that seamlessly combines history, culture, and modernity, San Antonio invites exploration and provides a captivating experience for residents and visitors alike.

• Distance from Houston: 110 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Sea Rim State Park is a coastal haven where pristine beaches, marshlands, and diverse ecosystems converge to create a unique natural escape.

Covering over 5,000 acres, the park offers a picturesque blend of sandy shores, salt marshes, and freshwater marshlands, providing a vital habitat for a variety of wildlife.

Birdwatchers flock to Sea Rim to observe the rich avian diversity, including shorebirds, waterfowl, and migratory species, making it a premier destination for birding along the Texas Gulf Coast.

Apart from its ecological significance, Sea Rim State Park invites outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife photography.

The park’s paddling trails wind through the marshes, allowing visitors to explore the scenic waterways teeming with life. Anglers can cast their lines in the Gulf surf or try their luck in the marsh canals, aiming to catch a variety of fish species.

With its well-maintained boardwalks, interpretive programs, and beachfront camping facilities, this is another one of the best day trips from Houston on the gorgeous Texas Gulf Coast.

• Distance from Houston: 90 miles

Port Arthur, situated along the coast in Southeast Texas, is a city steeped in industrial history and natural beauty.

Known for its strategic location on the Sabine-Neches Waterway, Port Arthur has long been a key player in the petrochemical industry, with sprawling refineries and chemical plants contributing to the city’s economic landscape.

The city’s ties to the energy sector are evident in landmarks like the Museum of the Gulf Coast, which celebrates the region’s cultural heritage and highlights notable residents such as Janis Joplin and Robert Rauschenberg.

Port Arthur also serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of the Texas Gulf Coast, with nearby attractions including Sabine Lake, a haven for fishing and birdwatching.

Despite its industrial prominence, Port Arthur maintains a connection to the environment, and efforts have been made to enhance its waterfront areas.

The city’s Pleasure Island district, situated on a reclaimed marshland, features parks, marinas, and recreational facilities, providing residents and visitors with opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation along the water.

Day trips to Port Arthur provide a unique blend of industrial heritage and coastal charm where the past and present converge against the backdrop of the Texas Gulf Coast.

Heading to Texas’s capital? Check out our list of the best day trips from Austin !

• Distance from Houston: 27 miles
• Driving time: 25 minutes

La Porte is a charming city located along the shores of southern Texas that is one of the best day trips from Houston. This waterfront community is known for its maritime heritage, as it played a significant role in the early days of the Texas Revolution.

The city is home to the San Jacinto Monument and Museum, commemorating the Battle of San Jacinto, a pivotal conflict that secured Texas’ independence from Mexico. The monument, standing tall at 567 feet, offers panoramic views of the surrounding bay and Houston Ship Channel, providing a picturesque vantage point that reflects the city’s ties to both history and the sea.

A highlight of the area is the Governor Ross Sterling Mansion. Once the residence of the influential oil magnate and former Governor Ross Sterling, the attraction showcases the grand architecture and opulence of a bygone era.

La Porte’s proximity to Galveston Bay contributes to a leisurely lifestyle, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and waterfront recreation.

Sylvan Beach Park, nestled along the bay, provides a scenic retreat with a sandy beach, fishing piers, and picnic areas.

The city embraces a balance between preserving its historical roots and fostering a modern community, evident in its local parks, schools, and cultural events.

With a welcoming atmosphere and a strong sense of community, La Porte stands as a hidden gem along the Texas Gulf Coast that is great for day trips from Houston.

• Distance from Houston: 165 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Situated in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, San Marcos is one of the best day trips from Houston for those who want to experience history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.

Home to Texas State University, the city has a lively and youthful atmosphere, with a thriving arts and music scene. The San Marcos River, a crystal-clear waterway winding through the city, provides a picturesque setting for recreational activities such as tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, the city is surrounded by the scenic landscapes of the Texas Hill Country, offering nature trails, parks, and opportunities for birdwatching.

In addition to its natural attractions, San Marcos boasts a historic downtown area with charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The city’s heritage is reflected in landmarks such as the Hays County Courthouse and the Old Hays County Jail, both contributing to the cultural tapestry of the community.

San Marcos is also known for the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment where visitors can explore the natural springs and learn about the region’s unique aquatic ecosystems.

Whether exploring the historic district, enjoying outdoor adventures, or immersing oneself in the local arts scene, San Marcos offers an excellent day trip from Houston in the heart of Central Texas.

Read next: The 21 Best Things To Do In Austin, Texas

• Distance from Houston: 92 miles

One of the best educational day trips from Houston is College Station. Located in the heart of the Brazos Valley in Texas, this city is intertwined with the academic prowess of Texas A&M University.

College Station also offers a mix of cultural attractions, parks, and a growing business community.

The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, located on the Texas A&M campus, pays tribute to the 41st President of the United States and offers visitors a glimpse into the nation’s history.

Opened in 1997, the museum offers a comprehensive look at President Bush’s life and career, featuring exhibits on his early years, his service as Vice President, and his impactful presidency.

The George Bush Presidential Library houses an extensive collection of documents, artifacts, and interactive displays, providing visitors with an immersive experience that highlights the historical significance of the Bush administration.

The city’s Wolf Pen Creek Park features walking trails, a lake, and a vibrant outdoor amphitheater, providing a scenic and recreational space. College Station’s commitment to education, innovation, and community engagement makes it a dynamic city with a unique blend of academic excellence and Southern charm. It’s one of the best day trips from Houston!

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10 Absolutely Breathtaking Day Trips From Houston

Pack the van, put together roadtrip playlist, and hit the road for these awesome day trips from Houston

On occasions of extended weekends or holidays, our advantageous location allows us to readily explore a variety of getaways around Houston . Make sure to include these crucial day outings from Bayou City in your agenda for your next urban escape.

Distance from Houston: 40 minutes

Conroe, TX offers an incredibly diverse range of activities, from well-preserved state parks and a sprawling 22,000-acre lake to captivating cultural attractions such as its historic downtown buildings that trace back to the early 1900s.

2. Brazos Bend

Distance from Houston: 48 minutes

Situated just 45 miles away from Downtown Houston, Brazos Bend State Park is a hidden treasure of nature . Encompassing almost 5,000 acres, this scenic park stretches alongside the Brazos River, offering 37 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, with certain paths accommodating wheelchairs as well. While in the area, you can do an exploration of the stargazing kind at the George Observatory .

3. Bellville

Distance from Houston: 1 hours and 3 minutes

Just a brief journey away from Houston, in the quaint town of Bellville, Texas, you’ll discover a medieval castle featuring a 3,000-pound drawbridge, a surrounding moat, and even accommodations fit for knights. This fortress, situated amidst the picturesque landscapes of Bellville , boasts five corner turrets, a chapel, a portcullis, and a courtyard – all meticulously constructed by Newman, brick by brick.

4. Beaumont

Distance from Houston: 1 hour and 20 minutes

Located in the middle of the Texas Gulf Coast, Beaumont was once a booming oil town . Today, there is plenty to enjoy indoors and outdoors in the city. From reading up on its oil history at Spindletop/Gladys City Boomtown Museum to wading in Gator Country, to kayaking the Neches River, to cruising all the breweries, antique shops, and restaurants in the downtown area, the Texas town is right for a day trip.

5. Huntsville

Distance from Houston: 1 hour and 22 minutes

Nestled within the Pineywoods of East Texas, just an hour’s drive north of Downtown, lies Hunstville State Park . This picturesque woodland area boasts a network of 21 miles of trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and bird-watching. The park also features the serene 21-acre Lake Raven, offering a designated swimming area open from 10 am to 8 pm. Additionally, visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and camping opportunities in this charming natural haven.

The region also hosts the Blue Lagoon , which can be found at 649 Pinedale Road. This pristine swimming spot is situated in a scenic natural environment, creating a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy.

6. Port Arthur

Distance from Houston: 1 hours and 25 minutes

Located on the southeastern coast of Texas near the Louisiana border, Port Arthur is a maritime town with robust railroad links, surrounded by neighboring towns such as Nederland, Groves, and Port Neches.

Dubbed as the “Cajun capital of Texas,” Port Arthur offers a captivating blend of cultural influences. It features captivating attractions like the Buu Mon Buddhist Temple, the Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, and the Queen of Peace Shrine and Gardens, making it a destination with a diverse range of compelling sites to explore.

7. Galveston

Distance from Houston: 1 hours and 30 minutes

Whether getting your thrills on all the rides at Kemah Boardwalk , partaking in the midway games at Pleasure Pier, just taking in the scenery , or using the trolley to admire the splendid Victorian residences, discovering the recently revitalized state park, or indulging in the delectable offerings of the town’s exceptional eateries, Galveston provides all the elements for a enjoyable evening, weekend, or holiday staycation .

This Gulf Coast destination offers unparalleled waterfront amusement and entertainment, setting it apart from other coastal areas. Galveston Island’s Historic Pleasure Pier features a range of family-friendly attractions including rides, games, and shows.

Visitors also have the opportunity to check out the nearby Crystal Beach/Bolivar Peninsula. At Camp Margaritaville RV Resort Crystal Beach , patrons can spend the day resort-style pool, clubhouse, swim-up bars, and private cabanas for ultimate relaxation. Other amenities include the Fins Bar & Grill, an arcade, golf cart rentals, and private poolside cabana reservations, among others.

8. San Marcos

Distance from Houston: 3 hours

San Marcos, located half-an-hour or so south of Austin, is home to an abundance of natural beauty . Surrounding green spaces, wooded areas, and swimming holes, make the town an oasis for outdoors types.

If you’ve already cruised the Buffalo Bayou on local boat tours , or more curious to see what’s going on elsewhere in clearer waters. The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment offer a series of Glass-Bottom Boat Tours on Spring Lake , an emerald lake sparkling with aquatic life.

One of the most unique aquatic experiences in Texas is located in the town of San Marcos. Here, you can cruise down a glow-in-the-dark river on paddle boards and translucent kayaks for the ultimate night-time float !

9. Hamilton Pool

Distance from Houston: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Numerous millennia ago, Hamilton Pool took shape following the cave-in of an underground river, leading to the creation of a submerged cavern beneath a flowing waterfall. Swimming is presently allowed , though guests are advised to check conditions beforehand. Visitors can also explore the neighboring trails and relax on the stunning beach of this awe-inspiring oasis. Keep in mind that advance reservations are obligatory prior to entering, ensuring you secure your spot before embarking on a journey to this remarkable Texan treasure!

10. Westcave Preserve

Situated in Southwest Travis County, the West Cave Outdoor Discovery spans 76 acres and serves as a haven of nature. In addition to its geological formations, elevated terrains, and vibrant avian population, the preserve boasts a captivating grotto and a 40-foot waterfall .

To bask in the splendor of this wondrous natural enclave , individuals are required to secure a reservation via the preserve’s official website. The guided tour offers one of the most exceptional hiking experiences in Texas. During the journey, participants descend through a limestone crevice via a staircase, entering a sheltered canyon that leads to the head of the canyon. This lush expanse is adorned by a waterfall cascading onto limestone deposits, ultimately flowing into the grotto pool.

See also: 46 fabulous things to do this spring in Houston

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Incredible Texas

Best Day Trips from Houston: Unusual, Fun, Romantic Destinations

Houston, TX , is a bustling and cosmopolitan city that offers plenty of attractions and entertainment options for its residents and visitors. But sometimes, you may want to escape the urban hustle and bustle and explore the surrounding areas that offer a different vibe and scenery. Whether you are looking for an unusual, fun, or romantic destination, you will find it within a few hours’ drive from Houston.

In this article, we will present you with some of the best day trips from Houston that will satisfy your wanderlust and make your trip memorable.

Consider reading: Unique and Fun Things to Do in Houston

Page Contents

Best Day Trips from Houston

When the hustle and bustle of Houston call for a brief respite, the surrounding areas offer an escape catering to lovers, families, seniors, and even your canine companions. These excursions promise adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories just a short drive from the city’s heart.

Galveston Island

Galveston Island , merely an hour away, is a quintessential day trip destination for Houstonians. It’s not only a paradise for romantic day trips from Houston with its picturesque beaches and charming historic districts but also serves as an ideal spot for families.

The island’s amusement parks, like Moody Gardens and Pleasure Pier, provide fun under the sun for all ages. Pets are welcome in many areas, making it a perfect getaway day trips from Houston with dogs .

Consider reading: Top 14 Best Beaches in Galveston

Kemah Boardwalk

Kemah Boardwalk , nestled along the bay, offers an array of attractions suitable for day trips from Houston for families . Its amusement park features rides catering to both the young and the young at heart, ensuring a day filled with laughter and joy.

The boardwalk is also home to various seafood restaurants where you can indulge in fresh catches while enjoying the bay’s serene views.

Gruene Historic District

For a step back in time, Gruene Historic District is slightly further afield but well worth the drive. This preserved slice of Texas history is a hit for romantic day trips from Houston .

Couples can explore the quaint shops, dine in the historic Gruene Hall, and enjoy the slow-paced life of this charming town.

Brenham , the heart of the Bluebonnet region, is a picturesque destination for day trips from Houston for seniors . The area is renowned for its wildflower trails in spring, antique shops, and the Blue Bell Creameries, where visitors can taste the locally made ice cream. The town’s relaxed atmosphere offers a peaceful escape from the city.

Houston’s central location allows for quick access to a variety of destinations, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a romantic getaway. Each spot offers its own unique charm and attractions, promising a memorable day out for everyone.

Unusual Day trips from Houston

When exploring day trips from Houston , the usual suggestions like beaches and parks are great, but sometimes, the heart yearns for something off the beaten path. For those thirsting for novelty, the areas surrounding Houston offer some truly unique experiences that cater to families, romantic adventurers, seniors, and even those with furry companions in tow.

The Orange Show Monument , located just a short drive from downtown Houston, is a fascinating enclave of folk art that’s as whimsical as it is profound. This unusual site was created by postman Jeff McKissack in honor of his favorite fruit. The monument is a maze of walkways, balconies, arenas, and exhibits, all dedicated to the glory of oranges. It’s an ideal day trip for families and those looking for a splash of color and creativity in their lives.

For those inclined towards romantic day trips from Houston , Spoonbill Pond offers a secluded getaway without the long drive. This hidden gem is a haven for birdwatching, with the pink-hued spoonbills often stealing the show. The serene environment, complete with the soft sounds of nature, makes for a deeply personal and romantic outing.

Bishop’s Palace in Galveston isn’t just a day trip; it’s a leap back in time. Known for its stunning Victorian architecture, the mansion is recognized as one of the most significant historical buildings in the U.S. Seniors particularly enjoy the guided tours, which investigate into the rich history and architecture of the era.

Dog owners looking for day trips from Houston with dogs should not miss Sam Houston National Forest . Spanning a vast area, this natural retreat is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and simply enjoying the great outdoors with your four-legged friend. The well-marked trails provide ample opportunity for adventure and are a testament to the beauty that lies just beyond Houston’s urban sprawl.

Each of these destinations offers a distinct experience, proving that the area around Houston is rich with unusual attractions. Whether you’re seeking romance, family fun, historical exploration, or a day out with your dog, these unique day trips promise memories that will last a lifetime.

Day trips from Houston for families

Finding the perfect day trip from Houston that caters to the whole family can be a delightful adventure in itself. Whether you’re aiming for a blend of educational experiences or just plain fun, the area surrounding Houston offers a treasure trove of destinations that will keep both kids and adults entertained for the day.

Space Center Houston

One must-visit spot is the Space Center Houston , where families can begin on an out-of-this-world journey exploring space exhibits, NASA’s historic mission control, and even see real spacecraft up close.

It’s not only an educational gem for budding astronauts but also a thrilling experience for everyone involved.

Brazos Bend State Park

For those looking for a bit of natural beauty and outdoor activities, Brazos Bend State Park is a splendid choice.

With over 5,000 acres of scenic landscapes, it offers hiking, biking, fishing, and the unique opportunity to observe wildlife, including alligators in their natural habitat. It’s an excellent way for families to bond over nature and adventure.

Consider reading: Brazos Bend State Park Camping and Hiking Trails

Kemah Boardwalk , on the other hand, provides a blend of thrills and spills with its amusement park rides, games, and waterfront dining options. It’s ideal for families seeking a little bit of everything: excitement, good food, and stunning views of Galveston Bay.

Finally, the Children’s Museum Houston is tailored specifically for younger visitors but promises fun for the entire family with its interactive exhibits on science, technology, culture, and health. It’s a place where kids can learn through play, making it a fulfilling day trip from Houston for families.

Each of these destinations offers different experiences but shares the common goal of creating unforgettable memories for families. Whether you’re exploring space, nature, the thrill of an amusement park, or the wonders of a museum, there’s something out there for every family to enjoy.

Fun Day trips from Houston

Exploring the vibrant scene around Houston offers a palette of adventures suitable for all ages and interests. Whether you’re seeking romantic day trips , engaging activities for families, or serene outings for seniors, the area surrounding Houston is ripe with opportunities. Here are a few destinations that promise a memorable day out.

Galveston Island stands out as a splendid choice for those looking to combine beach fun with historic exploration. Just an hour’s drive from Houston, this island offers sandy shores, the charming Galveston Historic Pleasure Pier, and the Moody Gardens, which house a rainforest, aquarium, and discovery museum. It’s a perfect spot for day trips for families as well as romantic getaways.

San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site immerses visitors in Texas history. It’s the site of the Battle of San Jacinto, where Texas won its independence from Mexico. The towering San Jacinto Monument and the nearby Battleship Texas offer a deep jump into the state’s proud and tumultuous history, making it an intriguing day trip for seniors and history buffs.

For nature enthusiasts and those with dogs, Brazos Bend State Park and the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center offer sprawling areas to explore. Brazos Bend boasts a variety of wildlife, hiking trails, and observatory for stargazing, ensuring fun day trips from Houston with dogs. Meanwhile, the Houston Arboretum provides a tranquil escape with its dog-friendly paths through forest, meadow, and pond habitats right in the heart of the city.

Each of these destinations represents just a fraction of what lies just a short drive from Houston. They embody the diversity of experiences available, catering to those in search of adventure, relaxation, or a touch of romance. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a day with your beloved four-legged friend, or a quiet day immersed in nature or history, the region surrounding Houston promises unforgettable day trips.

Romantic Day trips from Houston

Exploring Romantic Day trips from Houston unveils stunning destinations perfect for couples seeking a memorable getaway. Each location offers unique experiences, filled with charm and intimacy ideal for sparking romance.

Fredericksburg: A Wine Lover’s Paradise

Just a scenic drive away, Fredericksburg is a quintessential destination for couples. This charming town is famed for its vineyards and wine tasting tours , offering an indulgent experience. Wander through idyllic vineyards, savoring exquisite Texas wines, and bask in the picturesque Hill Country views. Fredericksburg also boasts cozy bed and breakfasts, making it a perfect stay for a romantic retreat.

Kemah Boardwalk: For Thrill-Seeking Couples

For couples drawn to the allure of the coast and seeking excitement, the Kemah Boardwalk is an excellent choice. Thrilling rides , waterfront dining, and boutique shopping craft a vibrant atmosphere. As the sun sets, the boardwalk transforms, with live music and entertainment ensuring a lively end to your romantic day.

Wimberley: A Tranquil Escape

Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Wimberley presents a tranquil escape with its clear, spring-fed rivers and captivating natural surroundings. Couples can enjoy secluded cabin stays , explore quaint local art galleries, or jump into the refreshing waters of the Blue Hole Regional Park. The serene environment of Wimberley makes it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind and connect.

When planning romantic day trips from Houston, it’s crucial to choose destinations that align with your interests as a couple. Whether it’s indulging in the pleasures of wine country, seeking thrills by the water, or finding peace in nature, these getaways promise unforgettable experiences just a short journey from Houston.

Consider reading: Unique Date Ideas in Houston

Day trips from Houston For Seniors

Exploring the vast and diverse landscapes surrounding Houston can be an enriching experience, especially for seniors looking for leisurely yet captivating escapes. Numerous destinations are catering to a more relaxed pace while still offering an abundance of charm, history, and natural beauty.

Galveston Island: A Coastal Retreat

Just an hour’s drive from Houston, Galveston Island promises a mixture of cultural history and seaside relaxation. Seniors can enjoy:

• Strolling along the historic Seawall.
• Exploring the grand Victorian architecture of the Bishop’s Palace.
• Visiting the Galveston Island Railroad Museum , which offers a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel.

Galveston’s inviting year-round climate makes it an ideal destination for those wanting to soak up the sun and sea air without overexerting themselves.

Brenham: A Slice of Texan History

Situated halfway between Houston and Austin, Brenham is the heart of Bluebonnet country. This small town is perfect for seniors who appreciate:

• The slower pace of small-town life.
• Engaging with Texas history at the Brenham Heritage Museum .
• Enjoying the natural beauty of the Bluebonnet Trails in spring.

The highlight of Brenham is undoubtedly the Blue Bell Creameries , where visitors can tour the facilities and sample some of Texas’ most beloved ice cream.

Huntsville: For Nature and History Enthusiasts

Huntsville offers a tranquil day trip with its rich history and natural parks. Key attractions include:

• The Sam Houston Memorial Museum celebrates the life of Texas’ greatest hero.
• Huntsville State Park , with its easy walking trails and serene lake views.
• The Texas Prison Museum provides a unique look into the state’s penal system history.

Even though it has somber exhibits, the Texas Prison Museum attracts those with a keen interest in history and criminal justice, presenting a different perspective on Texas culture.

Each of these destinations offers seniors accessible, engaging activities that don’t require long distances to travel or strenuous activities. From the coastal airs of Galveston Island to the historical intrigue found in Huntsville and Brenham, there’s something close by Houston to suit every senior’s interests for a delightful day trip.

Day trips from Houston with Dogs

Exploring new destinations with your furry friend adds an extra layer of joy to any adventure. For dog owners in Houston, Texas, there are numerous day trip options that cater not only to human interests but to canine ones as well. Here are a few top picks for Day trips from Houston with Dogs, ensuring a memorable time for both you and your pet.

First on the list is the charming city of Austin . Known for its pet-friendly atmosphere, Austin offers several dog parks and outdoor eateries where dogs are more than welcome. Zilker Metropolitan Park is a particular highlight, providing ample space for leashed walks and even a designated off-leash area. With its close proximity to Houston, Austin makes for an ideal day trip with dogs, offering both urban exploration and natural landscapes.

Another great destination is Galveston Island , offering not just beaches where dogs can play in the sand, but also a historic district that’s perfect for leisurely strolls. Galveston’s Stewart Beach permits dogs during the off-season, making it an attractive spot for those looking to enjoy the Gulf Coast with their pet. The island’s laid-back vibe and scenic beauty ensure a relaxing day out for dog owners.

For those seeking a more serene environment, the small town of Brenham is an excellent choice. Situated in the heart of Texas Bluebonnet country, Brenham boasts parks and outdoor spaces where dogs can frolic amidst nature’s bounty. Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, near Brenham, offers hiking trails that are dog-friendly, providing both historical insight and natural beauty for an enriching day trip experience.

Day trips with dogs from Houston not only foster bonding with your pet but also offer the chance to explore Texas’s diverse landscapes and cultures. These destinations ensure that your canine companion can partake in the adventure, from urban excursions in Austin to beach outings in Galveston and nature walks in Brenham. Each location caters to the needs of dogs and their owners, making them perfect for a day away from Houston.

Consider reading: Things to Do in Houston Zoo

Final Thoughts on Best Day Trips from Houston

Venturing out of Houston for a day trip presents a splendid mix of history, nature, and pet-friendly adventures. Whether you’re a senior looking for a serene getaway or a dog owner eager to share new experiences with your four-legged companion, the options are rich and varied. Galveston Island, Brenham, and Huntsville offer a world of Texan culture and scenic beauty that’s just a short drive away.

Each destination holds its unique charm, promising memorable outings for every traveler. So pack your bags, grab the leash, and set off on a journey that combines relaxation with exploration right at Houston’s doorstep.

FAQs on Best Day Trips from Houston

What makes galveston island a suitable day trip destination from houston for seniors.

Galveston Island is ideal for seniors seeking a coastal retreat with its historical sites, leisurely beaches, and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing yet enriching escape close to Houston.

Can seniors enjoy Brenham as a day trip option from Houston?

Absolutely, seniors will find Brenham appealing for its rich Texan history, beautiful Bluebonnet blooms in spring, and the leisurely pace of this charming town, making it a perfect day trip for history and nature lovers.

Is Huntsville a good day trip destination for nature and history enthusiasts?

Yes, Huntsville offers a great mix of nature and history, with scenic parks, hiking trails, and historical sites that cater to those interested in exploring the great outdoors and learning about Texas history.

What makes Austin a pet-friendly day trip option for dog owners?

Austin is known for its dog-friendly parks, numerous outdoor eateries where pets are welcome, and an overall welcoming atmosphere for dogs, making it an excellent city for owners to explore with their furry friends.

How does Galveston Island accommodate day trips with dogs?

Galveston Island is dog-friendly, offering beaches where dogs can play, a historic district that’s enjoyable to walk through with pets, and several outdoor venues that welcome furry family members, making it ideal for dog owners.

Are there dog-friendly activities in Brenham suitable for day trips?

Brenham caters to dog owners with its parks and trails that are perfect for walking dogs, alongside its pet-friendly atmosphere that ensures both owners and their pets can enjoy a day out together.

Combining enriching historical sites, beautiful natural landscapes, and pet-friendly options, these destinations near Houston provide diverse day trip opportunities for both seniors and dog owners looking to explore and enjoy their surroundings.

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• June 24, 2023

57 Best Day Trips From Houston — Places Nearby!

Houston is perfectly placed among many exciting getaways.

Museums, beaches, parks, and exceptional cities nearby are guaranteed to give you a whale of a time.

Whether you’re single, have kids, or are traveling with the entire clan, finding things to do is hassle-free.

So if you’re looking for the best day trips from Houston, we’ve got the best collection of places for you to explore.

Check them out below and get started on your travel plans outside of Space City.

This is an important urban center for the state of Texas, but it’s also a hub in the south.

So, it shouldn’t be surprising that there is a lot to do here.

The skyline of Dallas is impressive and whether you’re looking for culture, food or activities, you won’t be disappointed.

For starters, those who love art have a really great time in Dallas because there are many places like the AT&T Performing Arts Center, the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Deep Ellum in Dallas.

Those who love greenery will also have a tremendous time in this city while also learning about its love for JFK.

If you’re looking for a one day trip from Houston, Dallas is a pretty good pick.

With 239 miles from Houston, the ride takes about three and a half hours.

Bring plenty of on-the-go meals or go for drive-thrus if you don’t want to lose daylight.

Next up is Austin, the city that’s home to Sandra Bullock.

If that’s not enticing to you, maybe the fact that it is famous for independent music will be.

The city is known for its cool hipster vibe, which makes a getaway exciting.

If you time your trip well, you might be able to attend music festivals like Austin City Limits or South.

While the former is only about music, the latter also has elements of media and innovation as well.

But even if there’s no festival planned, Austin is an exciting destination.

You can visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum or the Mexic-Arte Museum.

Those who want to try good food will love the culinary options in Austin.

Enjoy its upbeat attractions and similarly upbeat music just over two and a half hours away.

3. Galveston Island

If you’re looking for a spot that will take you close to the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston Island is a good choice.

It’s only an hour away, 30 miles long, and has a lot of beach parks along the shores.

All these places are accessible by the public and there are plenty of activities like fishing, boating and other water sports.

The tourist activity in Galveston is high at Seawall Boulevard, which is where you will find the beach joined with sidewalks meant for pedestrians.

This is also where you will find the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, which is an amusement park.

And if that doesn’t appeal to you, there are plenty of local attractions, restaurants and hotels.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Club Vacations Galveston Beach Resort, an IHG Hotel

Also See: Best Day Trips From Dallas, TX Best Day Trips From Fort Worth, TX

This is a city that’s often called the gateway to the bay because it’s near Galveston Bay.

Visitors flock to Kemah quite often because it has an attractive entertainment district.

And, more importantly, because it’s only 40 minutes from Houston.

There are tourist attractions and exciting restaurants on the bayside to try out.

But perhaps the big one might be the boardwalk on the bay which has a lot of fun rides like in an amusement park.

That includes thrill rides, arcade games, shopping options and restaurants overlooking the water body.

Apart from that, you could also go for boat and carriage rides.

Those who don’t mind a jump scare should check out the haunted lighthouse district as well.

Recommended Hotel: Boardwalk Inn

5. Texas City

This is a city in Galveston County that makes its way to the Gulf of Mexico.

It’s a small city with the most popular attraction being the Texas City Dike levee.

Its specialty is that it’s the longest pier made by man and stretches over 5 miles.

There are great picnic spots and fishing areas along its shore.

The city also has a rich history which is showcased in its many museums.

The humbly named Texas City Museum is just one example.

There’s also the Engineer’s Cottage and Davison Home which are historic homes that every visitor must check out.

These homes are an homage to the Anglo-American settlements that first arrived in this region.

Best of all, these attractions—and more—are accessible with only a 45-minute ride.

Recommended Hotel: Candlewood Suites – Texas City, an IHG Hotel

Related: Activities in Houston

6. Port Arthur

If you like the vibe of a small city, Port Arthur is another great choice for your Houston day trips.

This is also along the Gulf of Mexico and there are many beaches that are home to exciting native species of birds, alligators, fish and more.

If you’re an outdoor adventure person, you might enjoy the spaces here that are great for activities like fishing, boat tours, swamp tours and water sports.

You can also go for a hike or cycling in Port Arthur.

Those who are looking to experience culture will find what they like at places like Faith Trail and the Museum of the Gulf Coast.

Religious monuments are not an uncommon sight here, which can be quite entertaining and educational as well.

Travel an hour and 21 minutes to explore all its delightful offerings.

Recommended Hotel: Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Port Arthur

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Houston

Those who want to get away from a big city like Houston will really enjoy the vibe of Brenham.

It’s a small city which is in Washington County and has many outdoor and indoor recreational spots.

If you would like to know about old Texas, you will find all of that in the many museums in Brenham.

You can also experience many vineyards and wine trail winds in this city.

Those who would like to visit outdoor parks will find plenty of those as well.

And if you want to relax in a spa, there are many of those options too.

Those who want to take relaxation to the next level should definitely try the Blue Bell Ice Cream while in Brenham.

With just over an hour’s car ride, all of these are available to be enjoyed.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Brenham South, an IHG Hotel

Also See: Day Trips From Austin, TX Day Trips From El Paso, TX

8. College Station

This is a historic and scenic place and it’s where Texas A&M University is.

The campus is pretty great just to look at and there is a museum on the premises which has some really cool artifacts like a replica of the Oval Office because it’s the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

But there’s also Research Park which is a great place for a picnic.

Then there is the Sam Houston Sanders Corp of Cadets Center which is also on campus and worth a visit.

But, of course, when you’re here the thing to check out is Kyle Field.

When you’re in College Station, you should also sneak a visit to the Children’s Museum or the Brazos Valley Natural History Museum.

And when it’s nearby you could stop at Lamar and Niki’s Pit Barbecue and grab a bite.

There’s also Soul Food to check out and all of this is just an hour and a half from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center

9. Beaumont

An hour and 15 minutes away from Houston is Beaumont.

One of the best things to do here is to check out the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum, which is a living museum.

If you want to know what a boomtown was like at the beginning of the 20th century, this is the place to be.

There’s also the Lucas Gusher reenactment where you can check out a staged gunfight like it was in the good old days.

If you like the idea of spending a lot of time in museums, you should definitely check out the Fire Museum of Texas, the Clifton Steamboat Museum and the McFaddin-War House Museum.

But those who are looking for a scenic place to take walks will very much enjoy the paved pathways at the Beaumont Botanical Gardens.

From antique roses to modern ones, native plants and many other flowers, there is a lot of taking in here.

You should also check out the Warren Loose Conservatory while you’re here.

It’s a sight to see.

Those who like to spot roadside attractions will also get a kick out of spotting the dalmatian-speckled fire hydrant.

It’s huge.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn – Beaumont East-Medical Ctr Area, an IHG Hotel

Related: Beaches Near Houston

10. San Marcos

Whether you’re looking for a river to float on or shop at the largest outlet mall in the country, San Marcos is an excellent choice.

But even if not, you can enjoy snorkeling in clear waters or spot colorful murals around town in san Marcos.

This place is about 2 hours and 40 minutes from Houston and it is a great place where you can go on a boat tour with a glass bottom.

Recommended Hotel: Wingate by Wyndham San Marcos

11. The Woodlands

If you want to head to a suburb for a fun day trip near Houston, The Woodlands is a good pick.

It’s a very popular suburb in Houston where there are a lot of outdoor attractions, shopping spots and dining options.

Market Street is a good choice for those who are visiting with children.

The Town Center Trolley is also a fun place to check out.

The same is true for Waterway Square, where you can amuse yourself all day long.

As the name suggests, it has a lovely water fountain to check out, and it gets particularly beautiful at night with the light.

And if you’re up for it, you can also go on a cruise.

If you want to go kayaking, there’s Lake Woodland which is one of the reasons this suburb, just 40 minutes from Houston, is popular with visitors.

Recommended Hotel: The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton

12. Clear Lake City

The Kemah Boardwalk is one of the most popular places in Clear Lake City.

But the place that widens most eyes is perhaps the Space Center here.

Of course, there are plenty of other things to do here, like going for a hike at the Armand Bayou Nature Center.

The park is home to many mammals, reptiles and birds.

If you are into aviation, you might enjoy heading to the Long Star flight museum where you will find over 40 minutes of vintage aircraft and artifacts.

And all of this is just 40 minutes from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Sonesta ES Suites Houston – NASA Clear Lake

13. Sugar Land

Yet another popular choice for a day trip from Houston, Sugar Land is just 30 minutes away.

You can experience the culture of the place in downtown Sugar Land which is home to several museums.

If you’re here with children, you should check out the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center.

You can also have a great deal of fun at the Houston Museum of Natural Science Sugar Land.

And if you’re outdoorsy, you will have a great time at the scenic hiking trails in Oyster Creek Park.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Sugar Land, TX

Related: Fun Weekend Trips in Texas

14. Rosenberg and Richmond

A small town near Houston, Rosenberg is popular for its historic downtown district.

There are many lovely Western-style buildings to note if you just take a walk.

Look closely, and you will notice that a lot of them are restored to reflect their glory days.

There are plenty of antique stores, cafes and boutiques as well.

Then there is the Rosenburg Railroad Museum which is a wonderful place to take your kids to.

If you’re into museums, you should also check out the Fort Bend Museum, which will give you a sneak peek into the first colony established here which was in the 1820s.

Those who like parks and want a tinge of history attached to it will very much enjoy a visit to the George Ranch historical park.

If you like looking at the night sky, there is the George Observatory to visit.

You can also spot alligators or go for a hike here and the Brazos Bend State Park is also here.

But we’ll talk about that in detail in a bit.

And the best news is that Rosenberg and Richmond are just 50 minutes from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Days Inn by Wyndham Rosenberg

15. Missouri City and Stafford

This is a place for those who want scenic snaps for their Instagram.

If you like getting acquainted with other religions, there is the Swaminarayan Temple here.

The Hindu shrine is known for its architecture since you will spot plenty of impressively intricate carvings on the facade.

It also has a great vibe to it and is a fun place to visit in general.

These two suburbs are just 35 minutes from Houston and they have a lot of gorgeous views and parks where you can admire native species of plants and flowers.

More precisely, you will find all that at Cullinan Park and Kitty Hollow Park.

Recommended Hotel: Homewood Suites by Hilton Houston Stafford Sugar Land

Back in the day, Old Town Spring was popular for its railroad.

But now, there is a lot more to do here, although the charm of history is still very much alive and the reason many visitors flock to this suburb.

The buildings here have a Victorian style which makes every walk a lot of fun.

And you will find a lot of fun cafes and restaurants where you can stop for great food and drinks.

There are a lot of boutiques as well which give you an opportunity to do some shopping.

Spring, just 30 minutes from Houston, is also home to the Houston Texas Temple, a must-visit.

And those who want some greens and hiking trails will enjoy going to the Mercer Botanic Gardens.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Old Town Spring

If you like rodeos, horse shows and events involving livestock, there is a lot to do in Katy and that starts at the Great Southwest Equestrian Center.

Those of you who will be here with your family and kids should also check out Typhoon Texas Waterpark.

And if adventure is not your thing, you can always head to any of the museums in Katy.

You will learn about the railroad history of the place at the Katy Railroad Heritage Museum which has a caboose car outside.

There’s also the Katy War Veterans Memorial and Museu, along with the Katy Heritage Museum that will keep you occupied all day long.

And all of this is just 30 minutes from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Katy

Those who enjoy a little bit of sun near a lake will really have a great time in Conroe.

Not only is it just 40 minutes from Houston, but it is also a lake town which means you can choose from boating, rafting, kayaking and jet skiing to amuse yourselves.

But if you want to stay away from water, you won’t be disappointed.

There are mini golf courses, bowling alleys, obstacle courses and go-karts to explore.

And if your idea of having a good time is just nursing a good drink, you should check out the Bartletts Distillery.

You can go for a tour or a tasting which happens at the Southern Star Brewing.

Recommended Hotel: TownePlace Suites by Marriott Conroe

Related: Best Restaurants in Conroe

19. Baytown

Just about 25 minutes from Houston, Baytown is a place for those who like culture and art.

There are many murals, sculptures and public art if you head to downtown Baytown.

And if you plan your visit well, you might even be able to attend the annual arts festival that takes place in the city.

But otherwise, you should still check out Umbrella Alley which is Baytown’s biggest tourist attraction.

It is a rainbow-themed canopy with many umbrellas over an alley that’s known to be a highly Instagrammable place in the state of Texas.

And the walls here are covered with gorgeous murals.

Of course, if you’re seeking some outdoor adventure, you can head to Pirates Bay Water Park.

If you want to take a Lynchburg ferry, you can also visit the Houston ship channel.

And if you want some peace and quiet while you take a hike, you should head to the Baytown Nature Center.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Houston Baytown East

For a perfect family getaway, Rusk is the place to be and it’s just 2 hours and 40 minutes from Houston.

It is perhaps most famous for housing the Texas State Railroad and it’s popular with visiting families.

But it’s probably because the rides are scenic and the trains are vintage.

Depending on the time of the year, the ride has a theme like Polar Express or Pumpkin Patch Express during the holidays.

The ride itself is said to be a great adventure for those coming from Houston.

And apart from that, you should take a walk on the Historic Rusk Footbridge because you will see plenty of exhibits that tell you about the history of the region.

If that fascinates you, you should also check out the Heritage Center of Cherokee County.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Hotels & Suites Jacksonville, an IHG Hotel

21. Palestine

No, we are still talking about the Lone Star state.

Just about 2.5 hours from Houston, this small town called Palestine is a great choice for those who would enjoy exploring the Texas State Railroad train excursions.

This town is charming and has many interesting landmarks like the Museum of East Texas Culture, Railroad Heritage Center and the Texas Jail House.

If you like looking at photogenic buildings, the Anderson County Courthouse is one to look out for.

There are a few lovely parks as well, like Reagan Park and Davey Dogwood Park in Palestine.

And if you’re visiting Rusk, checking out Palestine via the same train ride is actually a very cool experience.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Palestine

22. New Braunfels

Here’s another place that often finds itself on the list of fun Houston trips.

It is in Texas Hill County and if you visit here you absolutely have to check out the Gruene Historic District.

There’s also the Comal River which offers two miles that make for the perfect stretch for those who’d like to do some river floating.

If you are a fan of horror, the Gruene Dance Hall is the one to visit because it used to be a ghost town!

There’s also the Schlitterbahn Waterpark for those who like watersports but don’t want to check out river floating.

And New Braunfels is just 2 hours and 45 minutes from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village

23. Arlington

When you’re in Arlington, which is about 4 hours from Houston by the way, and you like theme parks, you have to check out Six Flags over Texas.

There are a lot of rollercoasters, no matter your age, and plenty of rides that teenagers will enjoy.

There are also other fun things to do, like the River Legacy Park, which has many walking trails.

You can also check out a concert or a football game at the AT&T Stadium if you time your visit well.

Then there is the Museum of Art for those who don’t want to go outdoors.

Those who like space-themed shows will enjoy a visit to the University of Texas, which has a Planetarium.

And finally, there’s the Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame, which is an amusing stop for those who are visiting with families.

Recommended Hotel: Live! by Loews – Arlington, TX

24. Fort Worth

Back in the day, Fort Worth was a big trading hub for cowboys.

But today, there is a lot more to it.

It is a part of the heritage of the state of Texas, which is on display at the Fort Worth Stockyards.

You will find a lot of fun things here, like western outfits from boots to hats.

You might even be able to catch a live rodeo or head to the salon for a drink.

There’s also the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, which you cannot miss.

And it’s also only about 4 hours from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard Fort Worth Downtown/Blackstone

25. Rockport

Rockport is on the Gulf Coast and is a place for those who want to head to a beach for the day.

Rockport Beach is the most popular one.

Whether you want to go fishing or swimming, you have a lot of room for it.

Those who like to stay on the shore can work on their tan while spotting many species of birds.

History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Texas Maritime Museum where you will learn about pirating and oil drilling along the Gulf Coast.

If you like arts, you can visit the Rockport Center for the Arts and check out their sculpture garden.

You will also get a taste of the seafood that Rockport is known for.

This is a budget-friendly option just 3 hours from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Rockport

26. Grapevine

Grapevine is just 4 hours from Houston and is known as the Christmas capital of the state.

It’s a great place to visit during the holidays because all the lights will lift your spirit up.

Kids will also have a great time if you take them on the North Pole Express where they can meet Santa Claus.

Recommended Hotel: Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center

27. Space Center Houston

1601 E NASA Pkwy Houston, TX 77058 (281) 244-2100

The NASA Johnson Space Center is a very popular choice for a day trip from Houston for obvious reasons.

Not only will you learn about space travel, but also have a fun experience checking out the Official Visitor Center here.

You must go on the NASA Tram Tour while you’re here to check out what happens behind the scenes.

There are a lot of exhibits and live shows, including a real spacecraft.

See what Houston’s most known for after just a half-hour drive.

Recommended Hotel: South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center

28. Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge

4318 FM1985 Anahuac, TX 77514 (409) 267-3337

Let’s see what we can offer to those who are exclusively looking for a nature getaway from Houston.

Our first choice is Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge which is a conservation area spread over 34,000 acres.

There is prairie land and marsh territory, which was turned into a refuge in 1963.

It is still supported by volunteers, for the most part, whose goal is to protect the diverse ecosystem here.

You will find ducks, alligators, bobcats and seaside sparrows here.

While you’re here, you should try hiking, paddling and birdwatching because they will be both fun and educational.

If you’d like, you can get a tour from a ranger who will tell you all about the magic of this wildlife refuge.

Plus, you can’t go wrong with the short one-hour ride from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Hailey’s Beach-n-Bay RV Resort

29. Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge

24907 FM 2004 Rd Lake Jackson, TX 77566 (979) 964-4011

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge is in Freeport and is a great place for birding.

This place is only 1 hour and 5 minutes from Houston and April is the best time to visit if you want to see migratory birds.

Hikers, wildlife photographers and bikers love this place.

There’s also the Big Slough Wilderness Area for hiking trails where you can spot alligators.

If you’d like to check out sandhill cranes and roseate spoonbills, there is an auto-driving tour as well.

And if you like fishing or hunting, that is allowed in this reserve as well.

Those who want to learn about the wildlife here will enjoy the exhibits in the Discovery Center.

Recommended Hotel: Days Inn by Wyndham Freeport

30. Angelina National Forest

Angelina National Forest is about 2 hours and 10 minutes from Houston.

It is in the Piney Woods region and is a great place for activities like fishing and boating.

You should go to the Sam Rayburn Reservoir to watch wildlife, bike or hike.

The drives here are scenic.

It’s a lovely choice if you’re looking for scenic places near Houston.

The colors are vivid and the forests are dense with pine trees.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Nacogdoches, an IHG Hotel

31. Davy Crockett National Forest

18551 Texas 7 Kennard, TX 75847 (936) 655-2299

Then there is the Davy Crockett National Forest.

Those who like outdoor activities will thoroughly enjoy this.

This forest is named after the famous frontier pioneer and it is 2 hours north of Houston.

You will find a lot of hiking trails and the landscape is filled with pine trees and hardwood trees.

It’s also known to be the home of many endangered species which makes a hike all the more exciting.

So, birding is definitely an activity to put on the list.

If you are looking for fishing, boating, swimming or paddling, you should visit the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Lufkin

32. Sabine National Forest

5050 TX-21 Hemphill, TX 75948 (409) 625-1940

This national forest is about 3 hours from Houston and is on the Texas-Louisiana border.

It is known for its outdoor activities as well and water sports are big here.

You should visit the Toledo Bend Reservoir, one of the state’s largest lakes.

There’s swimming, paddling, canoeing and fishing here.

You can even camp next to the water body and check out some mountain biking and hiking trails.

There are exclusive horseback riding trails as well which is exciting.

Recommended Hotel: Eden Cove Toledo Bend

33. Big Thicket National Preserve

FM 420 Kountze, TX 77625 (409) 951-6700

This is a very popular name as it’s one of the largest forests in the whole country.

It’s in southeast Texas and under 2 hours from Houston.

There are about 40 miles of trails for hiking and the place feels like a paradise.

So, you will find a river, many bayous and creeks to enjoy yourself.

The ecosystem here contains carnivorous plants as well so you may want to be careful.

That includes pine trees, bald cypress trees and sundew and pitcher plants.

You can also go birdwatching, canoeing and kayaking here.

The Big Sandy Trail is the one to pick if you want to go horseback riding or biking.

Recommended Hotel: Relax Inn Motel Kountze

34. Village Creek State Park

8854 Park Rd 74 Lumberton, TX 77657 (409) 755-7322

Then there is the Village Creek State Park which is for the whole family.

It is about an hour and a half from Houston and is in Village Creek, which is a great choice for those who like spending time in the sun.

There are outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing and swimming here, to name a few.

You will have the option of renting fishing equipment here and you can go fishing even if you don’t have a license.

The park itself has a lot of different habitats like swamps, wetlands, savannahs and pine trees.

You will spot different types of species which makes it a great place for wildlife observation.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Lumberton

35. Goose Island State Park

202 S Palmetto St Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 729-2858

This one is a state park along the Gulf Coast near Aransas Bays and St Charles.

It is surrounded by water, but swimming is not recommended.

There are plenty of other things to do, though.

That includes flounder fishing, hiking, camping and such.

You will also find red drum and speckled trout here, among other types of fish.

But the best thing to check out here might be the southern oak called Big Tree.

It has a circumference of 35 feet, and the crown of the tree is spread over 90 feet.

The tree itself is believed to be 1,000 years old.

Stop by whenever you’re in Rockport, or take an almost 3-hour ride from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn Rockport on Aransas Bay

36. Mustang Island State Park

9394 TX-361 Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 749-5246

This state park is stretched along the Gulf Coast for 5 miles.

There is sand and waves, which make it a nice beachside amusement for a day trip.

You can also enjoy outdoor activities like planning a picnic, fishing, biking and hiking.

The scenery is quite wonderful and has sand dunes, over 400 species of birds, sea turtles, 600 species of fish and more.

There is also the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail which is spread over 20 miles.

The waters are shallow so you will have a lot of fun splashing around in them.

The long trip takes 3 hours and 36 minutes, but once there, you’ll instantly feel relaxed.

Recommended Hotel: Island House BeachFront Condo Hotel

37. Brazos Bend State Park

21901 Farm to Market Rd 762 Needville, TX 77461 (979) 553-5101

This one is different from the other state parks nearby because it doesn’t have a beachfront.

But it does offer a lot to nature lovers.

This state park is about an hour from the city and has many trails where you can see and hear the wildlife that lives in the wetlands of Texas.

For instance, the Creekfield Lake Nature Trail is one you shouldn’t miss because it has a lot of educational value.

The bronzes in this park are very famous and the trail is very short but you can still go for a bike ride, a hike or a horseback ride.

You might even spot some alligators on the trail because these are wetlands.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Richmond

38. Sea Rim State Park

19335 TX-87 Sabine Pass, TX 77655 (409) 971-2559

This one is in Port Arthur and has 5 miles of beachfront to walk along.

You won’t see a lot of people because the 5-mile trail here isn’t that crowded which is great for those who want some seclusion.

There’s the Gambusia Nature Trail for those who want to go on a hike.

You will see wildlife as well as walk through marshlands.

The beachside itself is quite fun to spend the day at and gather seashells.

Plus, you will find many kayaking trails too and all of this is just under 2 hours away from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Royal Inn

39. Sam Houston National Forest

394 FM 1375 West New Waverly, TX 77358 (936) 344-6205

This is one of the four national forests in the state of Texas and is spread over 160,000 acres of land.

There are many flowers and animals to spot here along with hiking trails.

Those who like outdoor activities can also go fishing, boating, camping or horseback riding.

There are many shelters and pavilions built for the visitors, which makes spending hours here quite easy.

You will also find different types of birds like the red-cockaded woodpecker, which is endangered.

This place is also home to the bald eagle since it is the bird’s winter habitat.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also like the fact that it is only one hour away.

Recommended Hotel: Coldspring Cottage

40. Creole Nature Trail

1205 N Lakeshore Dr Lake Charles, LA 70601 (337) 436-9588

This nature trail is 180 miles through the outbacks in Louisiana.

It is a roadway that is best known for its view and for crossing many nature reserves.

It’s a scenic view with a beachfront where you can spot hundreds of birds, alligators, shellfish and different types of fish.

You will also find a whole range of animals along that trail.

You want to start at Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point which has a free exhibit.

You will get to experience Louisiana’s Cajun roots and nature here.

The displays here are interactive which makes it fun for the whole family.

If these got you excited, the 2-hour drive will fly by—even for kids.

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

41. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

8525 Garland Rd Dallas, TX 75218 (214) 515-6615

This one is spread over 66 acres and is in east Dallas.

These are botanical gardens near White Rock Lake which means there will be a great view of water as well as the skyline of Dallas.

Then there is the arboretum itself which is called the DeGolyer home.

It is in the Spanish-Colonial style of architecture and is a landmark at both the state and national levels.

You will find a lot of species of plants and flowers here.

And you should definitely check out the Texas Pioneer Adventure that’s a great learning and fun place for kids.

It’s a 3-hour and 38-minute drive, so bring lots of snacks and entertainment if you’re traveling with tots.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas East

42. George Bush Park

16756 Westheimer Parkway Houston, TX 77082

This is a country park, and it’s within Houston’s city limits.

It’s actually on the Buffalo Bayou, which is man-made and a watershed for Houston.

There are a lot of baseball and soccer fields here.

But it is a park, and you will find hiking and jogging trails.

The fields are also a great place for those who want to fly model airplanes.

Apart from that, this park is also an excellent spot for those who want to do shooting or geocaching.

There’s a boardwalk which is a plank bridge made of wood.

It’s a lovely place for an outdoor picnic just 30 minutes away from Houston.

There is an interesting mix of habitats here as well, which include a forest, bayou and swampland.

Recommended Hotel: Embassy Suites by Hilton Houston West – Katy

43. Texas State Aquarium

2710 N Shoreline Blvd Corpus Christi, TX 78402 (361) 881-1200

This aquarium is in Corpus Christi, which is a conservation organization.

This facility is all about saving marine life that belongs in the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.

As you’d expect, the exhibits feature urchins, crabs, jellyfish, stingrays and dolphins.

But it goes beyond just marine life.

You will also find a whole lot of turtles, alligators, otters and such.

You can walk around on your own or check out some of their interactive exhibits.

Plus, there’s an archaeological dig and a water park as well.

So the kids can have their pick of adventure.

The journey begins with a three-hour car ride, so make sure the kids are comfy.

Recommended Hotel: Omni Corpus Christi Hotel

44. Texas Energy Museum

600 Main St Beaumont, TX 77701 (409) 833-5100

This museum has a lot of historical exhibits that tell you about the story of Texas and oil production.

And it’s interesting enough to keep the kids entertained as well.

The museum is in Beaumont and has many exhibits about the technology related to the growth of petroleum refineries in the state.

The exhibits tell you a lot about how they used modern chemistry.

There are some robots as well which will tell you about the first big gusher during the Texas oil boom.

The permanent collection here also has presentations and educational courses about the state’s history with oil.

Have an educational trip by driving only one hour and 19 minutes from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Beaumont

45. Stark Museum of Art

712 Green Ave Orange, TX 77630 (409) 886-2787

This museum is under two hours away in Orange and has been since 1978.

It is a place for those who want to check out a comprehensive collection of American art in the US.

The collection here is vast and includes the works of Georgia O’Keefe along with a focus on the indigenous cultures from the southwestern part of the country.

The museum is also known for its collection of porcelain and glass, which includes the works of Steuben Glass.

Along with the permanent exhibition, there are rotating exhibits, educational programs and special lectures.

Recommended Hotel: Days Inn by Wyndham Orange

46. The Alamo

300 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 225-1391

This isn’t a name that’s unknown to most.

“Remember the Alamo” is a cry from the battlefield during the Texas Revolution that no one can forget.

The Alamo was built originally as a mission, but it became important in 1836 when soldiers from a Texas outfit were massacred there by the Mexican army.

This brought more Texans to the battle and fight for independence.

Today, this is a very popular tourist spot where you can get daily guided tours of the history of the place, including its roots as a mission.

Drive an easy 3-hour trip just to visit this historical landmark.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk

47. SeaWorld San Antonio

10500 SeaWorld Dr San Antonio, TX 78251 (210) 520-4732

A marine-themed park, this is the largest of the SeaWorld chain and is spread over 250 acres of land.

You can see shows featuring orcas, sea lions and dolphins, to name a few.

There are plenty of rides as well that give this place an amusement park feel.

Those who like zoos and aquariums will also enjoy that vibe here.

Kids will enjoy spotting penguins, flamingos, alligators, sharks and more.

If you’re traveling with little ones, you should definitely head to Bay of Play which has the theme of Sesame Street.

Be sure to leave the house early because the travel time takes about 3 hours.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Residence Club San Antonio, Wild Oak Ranch

48. USS Lexington

2914 N Shoreline Blvd Corpus Christi, TX 78402 (361) 888-4873

This is a ship and a museum in one place where you will see the CV-16 which is an aircraft carrier from the World War II era.

The museum is called Blue Ghost which is what the USS Lexington was called in 1992 after it was decommissioned.

One of the goals of this museum is to teach the public about the importance of naval aircraft in defending the country.

There are several exhibits here that work towards achieving this goal.

You will also get a tour of the 11 decks on the Lexington, which contain virtual battle stations and flight simulators as well.

And, of course, there is an exhibit that is dedicated to the history of Pearl Harbor.

Drive for over three hours, and bring your aspiring pilot along.

Recommended Hotel: Capri Beach Hotel

49. Battleship Texas State Historic Site

3523 Independence Pkwy La Porte, TX 77571 (832) 841-3500

Those who want more military history will also enjoy a 30-minute drive to Battleship Texas, which is in Houston Ship Channel.

You can tour the deck to learn about its activity during both world wars.

You can go for a guided tour or an independent one, depending on which aspects of this ship you’d like to explore.

The site is actually near the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, where you can plan a picnic or go for a walk.

Recommended Hotel: The Post Oak Hotel

50. Navasota + Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site

23400 Park Rd 12 Washington, TX 77880 (936) 878-2214

More good news for those who want to learn about wartime history.

This is a unique historical site in Texas and a perfect choice as in a 1-day trip from the area.

You will find the Circle P Antiques and Collectibles, Pink Champagne Antiques, Stonecroft Marketplace and the Bluebonnet Village Collectible which are all places where you can buy vintage items.

If antiquing is not your thing, you can head to the Washington-on-the-Brazos Historical site.

If you didn’t know it already, this is the site where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed.

You can stay at the Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site, which is a restored building, as well as explore the site itself.

And all this is just an hour away from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Inn Navasota

51. Sabine Pass Battleground Historic Site

6100 Dick Dowling Rd Sabine Pass, TX 77655 (409) 332-8820

This historic site is in Jefferson County, which is where an important Civil War battle took place.

It is in Port Arthur and it’s where the Confederate army has a rich history from September 1863.

It’s an important place when it comes to the story of holding off the Union Jack since the port was key for the Confederate army to get supplies when defending Texas.

This place also has a statue of Confederate Lt. Dowling, who was responsible for the army’s victory.

There’s also a fort from those times, and you get to check out the battleground as well.

And it is about an hour and a half from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Econo Lodge & Suites

52. Blessington Farms

510 Chisolm Trail Wallis, TX 77485 (832) 444-8717

If you’re looking to pick veggies and vine-ripe berries, you will love Blessington Farms.

It is in Wallis which is under an hour away from Houston.

These farms have animals as well and you are allowed to be hands-on with them.

There is an aviary here where you are allowed to feed Quaker parrots.

You can also bring bait and go fishing as well.

Those who are planning the trip with kids will be glad to know there is a rat race, the Spider Webb, a barrel train ride and a sand mountain for fun.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Brookshire – Katy Freeway, an IHG Hotel

53. Surfside Beach

This is a beach in Brazoria County near Freeport and it is famous as one of the places to visit near Houston.

It is on the Gulf Coast and is known to be a very neat beach.

Those who don’t like the noise and activity of Galveston beaches can consider this one an alternative.

The Bluewater Highway Trail you will pass by to get here is scenic.

And the beach itself is a good place for walks, swimming and fishing thanks to the Surfside Jetty County Park.

And the sunset is romantic.

It’s an hour and five minutes from Houston.

54. Bolivar Peninsula and Crystal Beach

Another great pick for things to do outside Houston , this peninsula is a thrill for kids.

There’s the Galveston-Bolivar ferry which will give you a great view of the coastline that stretches for 27 miles.

Crystal Beach is also a popular beach with soft sand and many restaurants along the coastline.

You will also find a ton of places for shopping.

You should also visit the lighthouse, Fort Travis, which has some history and look into the birding opportunities.

All this entertainment is just an hour and a half from Houston.

Recommended Hotel: Once Upon A Tide Home

55. La Porte

Those who want a beachside getaway will love La Porte as well, and it’s just about 35 minutes from Houston.

Sylvan Beach Park is definitely a place to check out because it’s a great place for swimming.

The clean water and the long fishing pier are huge attractions for visitors.

You can also check out the Governor Ross Sterling Mansion, San Jacinto Monument and Museum and the La Porte Bay Area Heritage Museum, which are all nearby.

Recommended Hotel: Home2 Suites by Hilton La Porte

56. San Jacinto Museum and Monument

1 Monument Cir La Porte, TX 77571 (281) 479-2421

As mentioned before, this is a place in La Porte and is a commemoration of the Battle of San Jacinto and it’s only half an hour from Houston.

This was the final battle in the Texas Revolution which freed the state.

The monument is a towering architectural structure that is 563 feet tall.

There’s an amphitheater as well as a reflecting pool here.

In the basement, you will find several artifacts that tell you about the history of Texas.

And on top of the monument is the terrific view of the Houston Ship Channel.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Houston East at Sheldon Rd

57. Corpus Christi

And we saved one of the best for the last.

Corpus Christi is a beach getaway on the Gulf Coast.

Once you’re here, you can check out the Texas State Aquarium or the USS Lexington Museum.

You can also visit one of the fishing towns here and enjoy fresh fruit in this countryside.

It’s a little over 3 hours from Houston, but you will experience some calm and scenic beaches here.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Corpus Christi

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Houston, it doesn’t get more comprehensive than this list.

You should be able to find a place for a solo trip or a family getaway with ease.

Map of Day Trips Near Houston, TX

57 Best Day Trips from Houston, TX for 2024

• Galveston Island
• Port Arthur
• College Station
• The Woodlands
• Clear Lake City
• Rosenberg and Richmond
• Missouri City and Stafford
• New Braunfels
• Space Center Houston
• Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge
• Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge
• Angelina National Forest
• Davy Crockett National Forest
• Sabine National Forest
• Big Thicket National Preserve
• Village Creek State Park
• Goose Island State Park
• Mustang Island State Park
• Brazos Bend State Park
• Sea Rim State Park
• Sam Houston National Forest
• Creole Nature Trail
• Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
• George Bush Park
• Texas State Aquarium
• Texas Energy Museum
• Stark Museum of Art
• SeaWorld San Antonio
• USS Lexington
• Battleship Texas State Historic Site
• Navasota + Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site
• Sabine Pass Battleground Historic Site
• Blessington Farms
• Surfside Beach
• Bolivar Peninsula and Crystal Beach
• San Jacinto Museum and Monument
• Corpus Christi

27+ Fantastic Day Trips from Houston (2024)

Houston, Texas.

Its reputation looms large as the most populous city in Texas, and the fourth most populous city in the entire country!

You can find everything here, from recreation to dining to residential life!

But if you’re longing for a quick, quiet escape from the big city, check out this list of some of the best day trips from Houston.

Hey! Want to read more locally-approved Texas travel guides?

• 19 Fantastic Things to Do In Houston
• One Day in Houston, Texas Itinerary (must-use!)
• The Perfect Weekend in Houston Itinerary
• 27 Memorable Date Night in Houston, Texas Ideas
• Visiting Houston, Texas on Your Own: 17 Great Solo Attractions
• 17 Fantastic Texas Road Trip Ideas
• 19+ of the Best AirBnBs in Texas
• 18 Awesome Day Trips from Austin
• 19 Fabulous Day Trips from Dallas, Texas
• 18 Incredible Day Trips from San Antonio, Texas

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How to get around Houston

Like most of Texas, the best way to get around Houston is to explore on your own by car!

If you’re visiting and need to rent a car, we highly recommend Discover Cars where they find you the best car rental deals from all of the competitors (has saved us so much money!).

1. Space Center Houston

Situated on the perimeter of the city, just 30 minutes from Houston city center, Space Center Houston is the #1 attraction for international visitors, making it one of the most popular and exciting day trips near Houston!

People of all ages will be wowed by more than 400 space artifacts, the largest collection of moon rocks on public display and multiple seasonal exhibits that make the science of space flight come to life!

Ever wanted to visit Mars?

You can do that here in the new Mission Mars Exhibit!

Climb into a simulated space capsule, experience a virtual Martian sunset, and find out what it takes to travel to Mars!

Independence Plaza is a must-see!

The 8-story complex is home to the only shuttle replica mounted on a shuttle carrier aircraft, and the only place where it’s possible to enter both vehicles!

Multiple exhibits give a rare glimpse into NASA’s shuttle era of space exploration and how it impacted future exploration.

Absolutely don’t miss the center’s most popular attraction, the NASA Tram Tour!

The tour takes you on site for a behind-the-scenes look at nearby Johnson Space Center.

Visit Historic Mission Control where Gemini and Apollo missions were led, have a look around the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility where astronauts train for space exploration, and explore Rocket Park where you can see one of only three remaining Saturn V rockets!

With so much to see and do, Space Center Houston is a definite must-do for your next Houston day trip.

2. Galveston

For a fun day trip from Houston, Galveston has tons to do!

If you want an expertly guided tour with some special friends, check out this Galveston dolphin tour!

Play, dine, golf, and relax at Moody Gardens resort!

Two glass enclosed pyramid buildings house a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium and a rainforest with over 1,700 exotic plants and endangered animals!

Entertain the whole family with the Discovery Museum, 3D and 4D theaters, animal encounters and a 45-minute boat ride on the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat!

Enjoy some adult tee time at Moody Gardens Golf Course, then rejuvenate in the spa!

Fly over water and guests on the pier at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier!

Waterside restaurants, amusement park style rides, family games, live music, and special events draw families year-round!

Hike, kayak, fish, and bird watch at Galveston Island State Park, or enjoy a lazy beach day at Stewart Beach!

3. Sam Houston National Forest

Fifty miles north of Houston you’ll find Sam Houston National Forest, one of only four national forests in Texas.

The 128-mile long Lone Star Hiking Trail makes this a perfect hiking day trip from Houston.

The area’s mild climate means hiking is possible year-round!

Camp in one of three developed campgrounds offering showers and restrooms and proximity to hiking and biking trails and lake recreation.

Rent canoes and paddleboats at Double Lake, a 24-acre lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and picnicking along the shores.

Find convenient boat access at Scott’s Ridge Day-Use Area, a public boat ramp on Lake Conroe.

Fishing is plentiful in Lake Livingston, and with the right permit, hunting deer and small game is also an option.

4. Big Thicket National Preserve

There’s no better day trip for nature lovers than Big Thicket National Preserve.

One hundred thousand acres of land protect nine distinct ecosystems, home to an incredible diversity of wildlife.

From forests to bayous, discovery and exploration are on the to-do list!

Hike through nearly 40 miles of varied landscapes, paddle through creeks, bayous and the Neeches River, take a guided nature walk with a park ranger, or camp out in the vast woods.

It’s a paradise of natural land and a must-do for outdoorsmen – and women!

At just an hour and a half from Houston, it’s a convenient way to get out of the bustle of the city and take in the beauty of Mother Nature!

5. Beaumont

Bordering Louisiana but entirely Texan, the city of Beaumont is known as the birthplace of the modern oil industry, with the first major oil discovery happening here in 1901.

Today, the city is home to more than a dozen museums!

One of its most popular is Spindletop-Gladys Boomtown Museum, a recreation of the town depicting life at the start of the oil boom in the early 1900’s.

From history, to art, to the outdoors, Beaumont has a little something for everyone!

After you’ve checked out a few of the city’s museums, peruse the town’s murals, sculptures, and street art.

Recharge at the free Beaumont Botanical Gardens or traverse the boardwalk at Cattail Marsh wildlife refuge.

Feeding the alligators at Gator Country Adventure Park is a favorite for families!

Plenty of bars, pubs, breweries, restaurants, bakeries, and cafes will satisfy any craving from a long day of exploration!

Don’t forget to snap a family selfie of Big Beau, a gigantic roadside gator attraction, on your way in or out of the city!

6. College Station

Families can find plenty to do in College Station, a well-known Houston, Texas day trip.

Attend a football game at Kyle Field, play laser tag or mini golf at Grand Station Entertainment Center, or experience the nightlife in the area’s popular sports bars and clubs!

Delve into a bit of history at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum where you can see a slab of the Berlin Wall and a replica of the Oval Office!

Military enthusiasts will enjoy viewing the tanks and uniforms of WWI and WWII soldiers at the Museum of the American GI.

And don’t forget to make a pit stop at the Selfie Museum to find “the most instagrammable place in College Station!”

7. McFadden National Wildlife Refuge

Enjoy plentiful wildlife-related recreation on 55,000 acres at McFadden National Wildlife Refuge, the largest remaining freshwater marsh on the Texas Coast.

Fishing, crabbing, hunting waterfowl, wildlife watching, and photography are all popular here.

Open from sunrise to sunset, convenient restroom facilities are available.

It’s a quiet place to disconnect and appreciate unspoiled natural beauty!

8. Sugarland

Just twenty minutes from downtown Houston, Sugarland is close to all the big city amenities but friendly like a small town!

Full of family friendly recreation, this is a day trip for making memories!

Explore the outdoors at 750-acre Cullinan Park, drink and dine on amazing food options and enjoy live music at Sugarland Town Square, take in a performance at state-of-the-art Smart Financial Center, catch a ball game at Constellation Field, or take advantage of over 30 shopping areas featuring everything from established retailers to small boutiques!

Children will love the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugarland, with its saltwater aquarium education shows in the Digital Dome Theater!

Several golf courses and plenty of parks for hiking and cycling provide outdoor opportunities for any preference!

Art and culture, sports and outdoor recreation, shopping and dining, and attractions of all kinds make Sugarland the ultimate Houston day trip idea.

For a quick adventure enjoying the outdoors, head over to Spring, Texas where you’ll find lots of family friendly attractions to keep you busy!

Start your day at the Spring Creek Greenway where natural history programs and wildlife exhibits will delight the kids and the grownups!

Walk or bike the trails, fish in the pond and let the little ones burn off extra energy at the playground!

For a quieter outdoor experience, roam the 300 acres of Mercer Botanic Gardens and view the beautifully cultivated plants and the butterflies and birds who call the gardens their home.

Avid golfers will love Cypresswood Golf Club featuring an 18-hole course and offering lessons and hosting tournaments with a pro shop on site.

Old town heritage is alive and well in Katy, a town just 30 minutes west of Houston.

Spend the day browsing the city’s two main museums, the Railroad Museum and the Katy Heritage Museum.

Set in a restored depot, a visit to the MKT Railroad Museum is like stepping back in time!

Train related exhibits will help kids appreciate the way things used to be!

Perfectly sized for a short visit and with a casual atmosphere, even toddlers can enjoy this museum!

They’ll love the red caboose that greets them!

Dive into a bit of Katy history at the Katy Heritage Museum.

Situated inside Katy Heritage Park, the area is a perfect place to spend a few hours.

Stroll past the historic homes and post office, people watch at the quaint gazebo, and delight in small town relics of times past, like model-T cars, old farm equipment, and even a telephone exchange!

You’ll feel like you’ve been transported a hundred years into the past!

11. Brazos Bend State Park

Want to see an alligator up close?

Then Brazos Bend State Park is the place to be!

Catch a glimpse of a variety of animals at this nearly 5,000-acre park preserve.

Alligators, bobcats, raccoon, deer and more – you’ll see them all, some even up close!

Fish, hike and camp – there’s even bathrooms and shower stalls.

Make sure to get your reservation as this place is close to Houston and super popular with the locals!

Kids will love peering through the telescopes in the observatory!

Make sure to call ahead to make sure the observatory is open on the day you plan to visit!

12. Baytown

Outdoor adventure awaits in Baytown, situated in the scenic waterways of the gulf coast Texas region.

The San Jacinto River provides the perfect place for boating, fishing, and kayaking.

Bird lovers will be amazed at the 300 species of birds found at the Baytown Nature Center, an official site on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail.

Plenty of parks offer trails for walkers and joggers, and many of them incorporate coastal areas like boat ramps and fishing piers.

For some family fun, head over to the city’s two waterparks!

7-acres of pools, slides and lazy rivers will keep everyone in the family busy at Pirate’s Bay Waterpark!

But if something a little smaller is more your size, try Calypso Cove!

At only $5 per person, it’s budget friendly, too!

As the fastest growing city in Texas, and bordered by Lake Conroe and state and national parks, Conroe, Texas is one of the best day trips from Houston to find city life and scenic views all in one spot!

Boating, fishing, and watersports abound in the 22,000 acres of Lake Conroe.

Bring your own boat, hire a guide, or rent a boat from the many options available in the area.

Lakeside dining is plentiful and a great way to end a day trip on the lake.

If you’d rather stay on land, downtown Conroe is the place to be!

Entertainment, restaurants, antique shopping, breweries, theaters, and a unique arts scene bring the community to life!

Plenty of live music has earned the city the designation of Music Friendly Community by the state of Texas!

14. Columbus

Take a break from big city living and escape to a relaxing small town with a rich history full of Southern charm!

Columbus is a place where people still wave to their neighbors and give a friendly hello to a stranger.

Its natural rolling hills are perfect for bikers, walkers, and joggers.

Fish, boat, canoe, or kayak on the Inland Paddling Trail, or hit the links at Columbus Municipal Golf Course (watch out for the ducks who call the pond on hole #8 their home!)

Enjoy a day out at the Columbus Country Market, a community event supporting local farmers, craftspeople, and other vendors.

Held March through November on the last Saturday of the month on the Courthouse Square from 9am until noon, live music and ready-to-eat food draw locals and out-of-towners alike!

Spend a day on the river on the 6.5-mile Texas Paddling Trail where you’ll see a variety of birds, turtles, and wildflowers!

Visit the Santa Claus Museum, grab a drink at a local pub, brewery , or winery, or take a tour of the beautiful, mature Live Oak trees that dot the city!

15. Lake Livingston

Just 80 miles north of Houston, Lake Livingston is a great place for a lake day trip!

As the second largest lake in Texas and with 450 miles of shoreline, Lake Livingston is never crowded!

Over 5,000 campsites and 100 boating ramps can be found in the parks surrounding the lake.

Numerous nearby dining options will please any palette!

Fish, boat, jet ski, sail, camp and enjoy the abundant wildlife found all around Lake Livingston!

16. Kemah Boardwalk

Bring the whole family out to this 40-acre waterfront entertainment area!

Kids will love the amusement park rides, like the roller coaster, ferris wheel and carousel!

Stroll the boardwalk and stop at the viewing stations to peer out over the water as the boats float by or take a boat ride for yourself!

Several restaurants line the boardwalk, like the popular Flying Dutchman!

Make dining reservations as the area can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays!

17. Davy Crockett National Forest

160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands, wildlife habitat, streams and recreation are just waiting to be explored at Davy Crockett National Forest!

Ratcliffe Lake Recreation Area provides areas for picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing and hiking.

Hike the 20-mile-long Four-C National Recreation Trail or horseback ride on the Piney Creek Horse Trail.

Those seeking solitude will love the Big Slough Wilderness Area, free of modern development and the perfect spot for primitive experiences.

Wildlife viewing is abundant here, including the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker which live in a carefully managed habitat within the forest.

18. Angelina National Forest

Located in the heart of East Texas, Angelina National Forest is one of four national forests in the state and an absolute utopia for outdoor lovers!

Over 153,000 acres of forest await exploration with mild temperatures that draw visitors year-round.

Fishing, boating, and water sports are popular in Sam Rayburn Reservoir and Bouton Lake.

Two recreation areas, Caney Creek and Sandy Creek, offer places to camp and picnic, and visitors can enjoy the campfire theater at Caney Creek, too!

The 5 ½ mile Sawmill Hiking Trail is the perfect length for recreational hikes.

Wildlife enthusiasts will love exploring the variety of birds, waterfowl, and forest animals in the 20,000 acres of Bannister Wildlife Management Area.

It’s the perfect spot to disconnect from the screen and reconnect with nature!

19. Nacogdoches

There’s no better place for an old-fashioned day trip than Nacogdoches, the oldest town in Texas!

Stroll leisurely through the red brick streets of historic downtown or hike miles of trails that once served as trade routes for Native Americans.

Sip your way through the city on the Wine, Whiskey and Brew tour, antique and dine through downtown at any number of family-owned shops and restaurants, or enjoy the outdoors at various parks, rivers, creeks, lakes, and sports venues.

History lovers will appreciate the historical landmarks and museums that trace the history of Texas and Nacogdoches.

Families can come together at the many family-friendly attractions, like Camp Tonkawa Springs RV Park, Splash Kingdom waterpark and Ellen Trout Zoo.

However you’re looking to unwind, you can find it here in Nacogdoches!

20. Magnolia beach

If a more off-the-grid beach day trip is what you’re looking for, head down to Magnolia Beach, a peaceful community with a small-town feel.

Without the bells and whistles (and tourists!) of some of the larger surrounding beach towns, you can bring your RV and camp for free right on the beach!

Pro tip: Fill up on gas just before you reach the town and bring plenty of food and snacks with you for your beach day since there aren’t many stores or restaurants in the vicinity!

21. New Braunfels

New Braunfels is a year-round family friendly getaway and one of the best day trips from Houston.

Home to Schlitterbahn, one of the most popular water parks in Texas, Natural Bridge Caverns, the largest cavern in Texas, and Twisted Trails, a 4-story ropes course, there’s something for everyone here!

Watersports abound at Texas Ski Ranch, and tubing and fly fishing are popular activities in the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers.

Beer lovers will enjoy the city’s three breweries!

The local Gruene district is a great place for shopping, restaurants, and live music!

22. San Marcos

If a day spent on the river is what you’re after, a visit to San Marcos is just what you’re looking for!

Enjoy tubing, kayaking, canoeing and one of the most popular attractions, clear-bottom boat rides!

850 acres of natural area at Rio Vista Park provide fantastic hiking and biking spots, making San Marcos a perfect hiking day trip from Houston!

Explore the underground world of Wonder World Cave!

Spend the afternoon shopping in downtown and, for a quirky experience, hunt for all ten of the 7-foot-tall mermaid sculptures, representing the city’s culture!

23. Port O Connor

Discover this wonderful oasis, known as the best kept secret on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Known world-wide for fishing, hunting, birding and kayaking, Port O Connor is one of the best Houston day trips for finding peaceful respite from everyday life!

Matagorda and Espiritu Santo Bays are full of a wide variety of fish.

Consider enlisting the help of a professional fishing guide to get the most out of your fishing excursion!

For the best bird watching, start early and head to places like Nature Park at Boggy Bayou and King Fisher Beach.

Interact with the coastal habitat while kayaking, or paddleboard at a relaxed pace on the Port O Connor Paddling Trail which will drop you off in the Matagorda State Park where you can camp for the night!

(Make sure you have the proper permits and gear to camp!)

Whether a beginner or an avid adventurer, the calm waters of Port O Connor are perfect for leisure or adventure!

24. Georgetown

Where can you find “the most beautiful town square in Texas?”

Right here in Georgetown !

Take a casual stroll through historic downtown and view its Victorian architecture, including the Old Williamson County Jail and the courthouse dating back to 1911.

Get your dose of vitamin D on the waters of Lake Georgetown, a 1200-acre lake known as one of the best fishing areas in the region and a great place for boating, water skiing, fishing, camping, and swimming.

If swimming holes are more your style, make a splash at Blue Hole Park!

Open from 5am – 10pm, this scenic lagoon on the South San Gabriel River is a preferred summer wading spot for locals!

End your day trip with a tour of Inner Space Cavern , a vast “living” cave with hundreds of stalactites and ever-changing formations, and one of the best-preserved caves in Texas!  

25. Round Rock

Boasting the largest indoor water park in the country – Kalahari Resorts and conventions – Round Rock, Texas is one of the most fun day trips from Houston there is!  

This 1.5 million square foot resort includes 30 waterslides, 20 pools, restaurants, an indoor adventure park, and artisan style retail outlets.

You could spend an entire day in Round Rock and never have to leave the resort!

But you’d be missing out if you didn’t experience the rest of what the city has to offer – like legendary 2lb donuts from Round Rock Donuts , a Round Rock Express baseball game at the 11,000+ capacity Diamond Dell stadium , and the annual downtown festivals!  

Before you leave, head over to Chisholm Trail Crossing Park to see the city’s namesake – a round rock jutting from the waters of Brushy Creek.

This rock indicated a low point in the water where settlers would cross with their wagons.

If you look closely, you can even see the wagon ruts in the rocks!  

26. Waco, Texas

Waco , home to the famous Magnolia Market designed by Chip and Jo Gaines, has a lot more than just Fixer Upper history (though if you’re interested in that, this Fixer Upper tour is the best one!)

This bustling Texas town has everything from the esteemed halls of Baylor University to the electric atmosphere of a football game at McLane Stadium to a museum dedicated to the history of American soda!

There’s also plenty to do if you like the great outdoors, including walking the Cottonbelt Trail or exploring Brazos Park East.

Got kids with you?

The interactive exhibits at the Mayborn Museum Complex will keep them busy for hours, or you can enjoy the weather at the Cameron Park Zoo.

If you’re into shopping, Waco is home to plenty of the best antique shops, as well as Spice Village , an incredibly colorful market selling everything from knick knacks to home decor to Texas T-shirts!

Waco is relatively walkable, filled with culture, and a great place to go on a day trip from Houston (though it is a bit lengthy at a 3 hour drive, so set off early in the morning and plan to stay until dinner to make the most of your day).

27. Cedar Creek Lake

Want to get outdoors and into the fresh air?

Look no further than Cedar Creek Lake , the best day trip from Houston for anyone looking to soak in the Texas sunshine.

If you do want to hit the water, you’ll feel at home here as there are plenty of boating and fishing opportunities as it’s the fourth largest lake in Texas.

The lake is usually home to catfish year-round, and bass more in the springtime.

If you want to be on the water without the fishing, you can also go swimming in the coves or rent water equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and pontoon boats.

If you prefer to stick on the shore, that’s fine too, just bring a picnic and watch the world go by.

This is a great way to stretch your legs and leave the city for awhile!

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• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips from Houston, Texas

Last Updated By VI on April 12, 2024 in Texas Day Trips

Galveston Island (1 hour)

Beaumont, tx (1 hour 20 minutes), brenham (1 hour 10 min), texas city (1 hour day trip from houston).

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The nucleus of tourist activity on Galveston is definitely Seawall Boulevard, where the beach meets a long pedestrian-friendly sidewalk lined with hotels, restaurants, and other attractions. The seawall is also the site of the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, an amusement park that stretches out into the gulf on a large pier. Keep reading for more road trips from Houston.

Beaumont is located on the coast in southeastern Texas, where it has a great deal to offer visitors. If you would like to learn more about the early days in Texas, before the Texas Oil Boom, you can visit the interesting Spindletop Gladys Boomtown Museum, which is a recreation of a typical Texas town prior to the discovery of oil. There are also several opulent historic homes and churches to see. For something completely different you can get up-close and personal with an alligator or two at Gator Country, navigate the wild and wonderful Neches River on a Boat Tour or enjoy some inspirational art galleries and outdoor art installations.

A series of museums tell the story of old Texas, while the area’s wine trail winds among several regional vineyards. Brenham also boasts a number of outdoor park spaces and several spas for a relaxing day in this quaint town. And the local Blue Bell Ice Cream creamery is not to be missed, as tours here show off how Texas’s favorite ice cream is prepared.

Texas City also celebrates its rich history with several museums, such as the Texas City Museum, and historic homes, such as the Davison Home and the Engineer’s Cottage, which provide memorials to the first Anglo-American settlements in the region.

Port Arthur (1 hour 30 min)

Port Arthur’s outdoor areas offer opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing, watersports, and even swamp and boat tours. The city also has many cultural attractions, which include the Museum of the Gulf Coast and the famous Faith Trail, along which several monuments to different religions are located. Keep reading for more road trips from Houston.

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge (1 hour 20 min)

4318 FM 1985, Anahuac, TX 77514, Phone: 409-267-3337

Village Creek State Park (1 hour 30 min)

8854 Park Rd 74, Lumberton, TX 77657, Phone: 409-755-7322

Goose Island State Park (2 hours 45 min)

202 S. Palmetto St. Rockport, TX 78382, Phone: 361-729-2858

USS Lexington (3 hours 10 min)

2914 N. Shoreline Blvd. Corpus Christi, TX 78403, Phone: 361-888-4873

Texas State Aquarium (3 hours 10 min)

2710 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78402, Phone: 361-881-1200

Mustang Island State Park (3 hours 30 min)

17047 TX-361, Port Aransas, TX 78373, Phone: 361-749-5246

Creole Nature Trail (2 hours)

A good place to begin a trip on this route is at Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point, a free exhibit that shows off Louisiana’s natural splendor and Cajun roots. This center has mainly interactive displays, making it both interesting for the kids and an informative start to an adventure through Louisiana.

Texas Energy Museum (1 hour 20 min)

600 Main St,. Beaumont, TX 77701, Phone: 409-833-5100 More destinations: Spring, Texas

Austin (2 hours 45 min)

Browse awesome day trips from Dallas , Fort Worth , Austin and San Antonio .

Brazos Bend State Park (50 min)

21901 FM 762 Rd, Needville, TX 77461, Phone: 979-553-5102

Day Trips from Houston: Kemah (40 min)

As one might expect, the boardwalk has classic arcade games, restaurants, shopping, and thrill rides, many of which overlook the water. Beyond the boardwalk, the city also offers carriage and boat rides and a spooky excursion through its haunted lighthouse district.

Stark Museum of Art (1 hour 40 min)

712 Green Ave, Orange, TX 77630, Phone: 409-886-2787

Sam Houston National Forest (1 hour)

394 Farm to Market 1375, New Waverly, TX 77358, Phone: 936-344-6205

Space Center Houston (30 min)

1601 NASA Road 1, Houston, TX 77058, Phone: 281-244-2100

George Bush Park (30 min Day Trip from Houston)

16756 Westheimer Pkwy, Houston, TX 77082, Phone: 281-496-2177

The Alamo (2 hours 50 min)

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, Phone: 210-225-1391

George Bush Presidential Library and Museum (1 hour 30 min)

More ideas: Things to Do in Sugar Land, TX

SeaWorld San Antonio (3 hours)

10500 Sea World Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251, Phone: 800-700-7786

Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens (3 hours 30 min)

More ideas: Awesome Art Museums

Battleship Texas State Historic Site (30 min)

3523 Independence Parkway South, LaPorte, TX 77571, Phone: 281-479-2431

Beyond the outdoors, several cities lie close to Houston where an array of art, historical, and science museums in the area provide a host of destinations for culturally oriented day trips as well. Here are some of the best road trips and day trips from Houston, Texas .

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• 1. Galveston Island (1 hour)
• 2. Beaumont, TX (1 hour 20 minutes)
• 3. Brenham (1 hour 10 min)
• 4. Texas City (1 hour Day Trip from Houston)
• 5. Port Arthur (1 hour 30 min)
• 6. Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge (1 hour 20 min)
• 7. Village Creek State Park (1 hour 30 min)
• 8. Goose Island State Park (2 hours 45 min)
• 9. USS Lexington (3 hours 10 min)
• 10. Texas State Aquarium (3 hours 10 min)
• 11. Mustang Island State Park (3 hours 30 min)
• 12. Creole Nature Trail (2 hours)
• 13. Texas Energy Museum (1 hour 20 min)
• 14. Austin (2 hours 45 min)
• 15. Brazos Bend State Park (50 min)
• 16. Day Trips from Houston: Kemah (40 min)
• 17. Stark Museum of Art (1 hour 40 min)
• 18. Sam Houston National Forest (1 hour)
• 19. Space Center Houston (30 min)
• 20. George Bush Park (30 min Day Trip from Houston)
• 21. The Alamo (2 hours 50 min)
• 22. George Bush Presidential Library and Museum (1 hour 30 min)
• 23. SeaWorld San Antonio (3 hours)
• 24. Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens (3 hours 30 min)
• 25. Battleship Texas State Historic Site (30 min)

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4 Best Day Trips from Houston

By Diana Oates

Whether you're looking to sip vintages at local wineries, hang on a golden-sand beach, or just chow down on some Texas-style barbecue, Houston is positioned perfectly for a solid day trip. You've got the coast in one direction and the Texas Hill Country in the other. Both are bursting with sights to see, things to eat, and local craft beer to drink. The best news? If you decide to turn your day trip into an overnighter, there are beautiful hotels, resorts, and camping options for a good night's sleep. Here are our picks for the best day trips from Houston.

Click the link to read our complete Houston city guide .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The bustling port city of Galveston is one of the best places to hit the beach in the Lone Star State. With 30-plus miles of sand to stroll and surf to wade in, your mood will be buoyed in no time. There's a party energy here too, with swim-up and rooftop bars and some celebration-worthy seafood towers at the century-old Gaido's. 

Carr Mansion Arrow

The Carr Mansion is a charming bed and breakfast that oozes old-school charm. Austin-based interior designer Shannon Eddings brought the Greek Revival back to life, and the much-buzzed-about beach beauty reopened in July 2018. The Preacher Suite—named for a preacher and his wife who once lived in the mansion and hosted church services for locals—features a king-size bed, a beautiful clawfoot tub, and dreamy bay windows. The inn also gives you access to golf carts, bikes, and carriage rides to explore the island.

Stewart Beach Arrow

Stewart Beach is a golden-sand beach that's a quintessential family destination, complete with concessions, volleyball, showers, and bathrooms. Its warm water beckons swimmers of all skill levels, and it's a great place for novice surfers to learn the trade because the waves are small and manageable. There's also plenty of room on the sand to throw down your towel and relax. It's soft sand, so going barefoot is fine, but it's best to have your shoes handy if you need to use the restroom or get a snack.

Gaido's Seafood Restaurant Arrow

Gaido's has been open for more than 100 years, and it's refreshing to return time and again to a classic establishment that never changes. Do as the locals do, and start with a signature martini and an order Galveston Bay oysters. From there, dip into the specials menu, which features fresh catches of the day and creative dishes with hyper-seasonal ingredients.

María Casbas

Jessica Chapel

Madison Flager

Moody Gardens Arrow

It's hard to miss the aquarium, the key attraction at Moody Gardens—it is, after all, a huge glass pyramid. It's filled with sharks, stingrays, and seals; but the highlight are the otter and penguin encounters that let you get up close and personal with the animals. If you're lucky you might even get to see some of their training in action. This is a perfect stop for kids who need a break from the sun and sand in Galveston.

The San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center Arrow

The San Luis Resort will make you feel worlds away from real life—exactly the goal of the place. Tuck into an 800-square-foot villa suite with a king-size bed, large bathroom, living room, and a private veranda with a hot tub and three TVs. The Spa San Luis offers a full menu of treatements: facials, massages, nail services, waxing. Also make time to go to as many of the resort's 10 restaurants as you can.

The Rooftop Bar at the Tremont House, A Wyndham Grand Hotel Arrow

Tremont House, Galveston's only open-air rooftop bar, offers friendly service and views of both the harbor and downtown. The atmosphere is elevated (that is, for a party place Galveston) but relaxed. With just the right breeze and the best sunsets in the area, this is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle before walking to dinner nearby. Let's face it: who doesn't want to sip cocktails on a rooftop while on vacation ?

Shrimp 'N Stuff Arrow

This restaurant is not about creative presentations or surprising pairings. It serves delicious fried seafood by way of baskets, po-boys, and tacos. There are a lot of families here and most seem to know what they want before they even took a look at the menu. Order some fried shrimp and a cheap bucket of beers. It's that kind of place.

Ask a Texan to tell you what heaven looks like, and they are likely to describe a scene that involves blue bonnets, barbecue, and Blue Bell ice cream with Texas country music playing in the background. Turns out that scene is actually a quick drive from Houston—in beautiful Brenham.

Blue Bell Creameries Arrow

Blue Bell, where Texas's favorite ice cream comes to life, is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. You can tour the facility, learn about the brand's history going back to 1907, and get an up-close-and-personal look at production from the observation deck. There's also a country store (stock up on half-gallon gift certificates and become the office hero) and an ice cream parlor where you can get any scoop for a song—$1, to be precise.

Home Sweet Farm Market & Biergarten Arrow

This farmers market–biergarten hybrid hits some real notes of nostalgia. Even if you've never lived in a small town, Home Sweet Farm immediately grabs your heartstrings and reminds you of simpler times. The atmosphere is carefree and the ambience is authentically Texas; you'll even find transplants clutching craft beer and pledging their allegiance to the Lone Star State. They also claim to have the largest selection of Texas craft beer anywhere in the country, and we have no reason to doubt them.

Round Top Antiques Fair Arrow

One of the best antique shows in the world, Round Top's Antiques Week is no longer just one week. The event takes place over about two and a half weeks each fall and spring, and has stretched beyond Round Top to neighboring towns, where tents pop up in fields along two-lane Texas State Highway 237 for at least 20 miles. The main events are the Original Round Top Antiques Fair and the Marburger Farm Antique Show, both of which charge admission and are only open on the final days of the show, but there's much to unearth throughout the entire run.

 FREDERICKSBURG

With a proud German heritage, Fredericksburg is a Texan town with great historic sites and museums, but this is also the jumping off poiint for the Hill Country wine region, one of the most underrated places to enjoy a bottle in the country. Drive about four hours west of Houston (you can make a pit stop in Austin ) to reach this bucolic destination.

Otto's German Bistro Arrow

With a contemporary take on German staples, Otto's menu is an homage to Fredericksburg's German heritage. Drinks-wise, you can't go wrong with anything. The cocktails use ingredients from the restaurant's back garden and they'll pour you house wine from the tap (the beers are German, of course). The foie gras (with rhubarb marmalade, pickled butternut squash, and homemade brioche) is a reliable starter, as is the flammkuchen flatbread with Texas goat cheese, prosciutto, and a balsamic reduction. Note that it can get loud inside, so be prepared to shout just a little.

Vaudeville Arrow

This boutique is a fabulous mix of home decor and gourmet food. Upstairs you can pick up home goods from Austria, England, Germany, Italy, and Beyond. Think everything from barware to sunglasses. Downstairs it's food and drinks: fine wines, French butter, charcuterie, and caviar. There's also a restaurant downstairs doing excellent bistro food—think duck confit and chocolate pots de creme.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area Arrow

The mystical pink granite dome is a natural wonder and offers remarkable panoramic views of Hill Country. It's a steep walk to the summit, but novices (and kids) can make it up, with a few breaks to sit and enjoy the vista. You'll want to get here early, since parking is limited and the gates close when the lot is full, then reopen as spots become available. If you aren't claustrophobic, make time explore the dome's cave. It doesn't look like much, so your best bet is to follow the line of people that forms at the entrance.

Cellar Rat Wine Tours Arrow

The number of wineries in some parts of Hill Country, especially along Highway 290 outside of Fredericksburg, is too large to experience in a single day (not to mention they're too crowded on weekends). Booking this tour means that guides can create an itinerary of wineries with your preferences in mind, and make the reservations in advance. Since the guides all work or have worked in the wine industry, they have a serious rolodex of vineyard contacts—you'll likely have a private tasting room and access to winemakers.

Hoffman Haus Arrow

Stay here and you'll feel like you're in a friend's home. That is, if your friend cooked a mean breakfast and dropped it piping hot at your door each morning. Located in a more residential area, just far enough from the action of Fredericksburg, the B&B is in a two-story house and has additional rooms in nearby cottages. (Hint: it's a good place for a romantic weekend.)

Contigo Ranch Arrow

Happiness radiates from this working ranch that doubles as a wedding venue. The accommodations are a series of cabins and cottages done up in a ranch modern style that makes them look like they belong on the Instagram feed of your favorite traveler (they may have, in fact, shown up there). This is a place to come to enjoy the vast Hill Country landscape, away from any big city troubles. But it's still close enough that you can hit downtown Fredericksburg in under 20 minutes.

Wildseed Farms Arrow

This is the nation's largest working wildflower farm and brings in tourists and locals to stroll among gorgeous flowers along the half mile of walking trails that are open to the public. There are also drinks for purchase and a large plant nursery with plants to take home and indulge your green thumb. While you're here, don't miss the seasonal butterfly garden in the spring time.

Barbecue capital of Texas. Need we say more? Okay, we will say a bit more. In addition to having coma-inducing cuisine, this Hill Country destination is a beauty, whether you fancy farmland or the calming shores of the San Marcos River. The hardest decision you’ll make on your trip though is which famous ‘cue spot to sample.

Go Outside Expedition Co. Arrow

Go Outside's lead guide Ryan Schaper started fishing when he was three and has grown up around the lakes and rivers of Texas. He and the rest of the crew lead fly fishing and kayaking trips to a dozen different rivers in the area. This is one you have to clear the day for: Trips can run up to nine hours, but the turquoise waters of the San Marcos River are truly magical when experienced by Kayak.

Maverick Horseback Riding Arrow

These horseback tours try provide something for anyone, and everyone as long as they have an interest in the equine arts. There are relaxed, easy walks, and more challenging trail rides for advanced riders. They'll even teach you how to ride bareback and cross a river. The guides all care deeply about the horses and it shows. They'll teach you not only how to ride, but how to respect the animals as well.

Kreuz Market Arrow

Kreuz has earned its reputation as one of the best in Texas' barbecue capital. First timers should come with an empty stomach and open mind. Try everything. Although they are known for their sausage, leaving without trying the brisket would be a crying shame. I personally never pass up mac and cheese on a menu. In this case, it is definitely worth it. And no trip to a Texas barbecue joint is complete without a slice of whatever seasonal pie is available.

Wahwahtaysee Resort Arrow

Hearing the soothing trickle of the San Marcos River, seeing the blaze of individual fire pits, and looking up at the starry sky miles from anywhere is immediately soothing when you arrive at this luxe camping resort. It's named for the plentiful fireflies all over in the native tongue of the Tonkawa tribe that once inhabited the land here. Despite the escapist surroundings though, tents are full of amenities: indoor and outdoor showers and tub, a king-size beds and (thankfully for Texas in the summer) air conditioning. 

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Outdoors: day trips.

Up for a little adventure? Take a ride to these hotspots. You could probably easily get lost in the backwaters of the  Armand Bayou Nature Center , a sprawling 2,500-acre preserve situated between the town of Pasadena and Galveston Bay. But that's what the guided tours are for. You can experience a leisurely morning canoe ride through the park, observing numerous species of wildlife, from alligators to deer to waterfowl. There are also miles of hiking trails that take visitors through the three different ecosystems present at the center-tall grass prairie, bayou and forest. For a little taste of 1890s farm life, there's the Martyn farm house, which offers a glimpse of rural life more than a century ago. Next, check out the center's Bison Observation Deck, where you can see the two bison Armand Bayou acquired in 2008. For a slightly spooky experience, consider a night tour. The center conducts a moonlight pontoon boat cruise or a hayride through the prairie. With help from spotlights guides will show you the nocturnal creatures such as raccoons and armadillos that call this place home.

The 32-acre  Sylvan Beach Park , less than 10 miles from Armand Bayou, is the perfect place to get away from the hustle of city life and experience a nice beach with a refreshing ocean breeze. Unlike other beaches in the area, this Harris County park boasts fine sand, no seaweed covering the beach and smaller waves for more enjoyable swimming.

Armand Bayou Nature Center

Sylvan beach park, armand bayou canoe tours.

The  Mercer Arboretum and Botanical Gardens , a 250-acre preserve set on Cypress Creek north of Houston in Humble, has one of the largest collections of native and cultivated plants in the Houston region. Here you'll find miles of hiking trails, picnic areas a butterfly house and a boardwalk over a cypress swamp among other features. You'll also see a wide ranging collection of flora and fauna, from vibrant camellias and orchid trees to Pine Warblers and Black-capped Chikadees. The arboretum is always free.

The 2,168-acre  Bear Creek Pioneers Park  features walking trails, an equestrian trail, a small zoo (including buffalos, an ostrich, and emus) and aviary, playgrounds, soccer fields, little league and softball fields, four lighted tennis courts, eight picnic pavilions, horseshoe courts and hundreds of picnic tables and grills. Near the aviary, ducks can been seen walking freely around a pond.

Named in honor of the 41st president of the United States George H.W. Bush, the 7,800-acre  George Bush Park , located on the far west side of Houston, serves as a major attraction and nature reserve. The park has a system of jogging trails, many surrounded by swamps, forest, and bayous. Many of the trails follow Buffalo Bayou, and biking is popular year round. The trail is well known for its flexibility in biking--many speed bikers ride the trails. In addition to the biking trail, there is a large wooden bridge that crosses Buffalo Bayou, dubbed "the Boardwalk." American Shooting Centers is also located inside the park (click here for more details).

Mercer Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

George bush park.

The upper Texas Coast south of Houston and surrounding Galveston Bay has been described as a bird lover's paradise. Winged beauties of all kinds are found here, particularly during the colder months of November to March when many species migrate to the area to escape frigid northern temperatures. Whether hiking the trails of area wildlife refuges in search of birds or driving along the bayous and preserves of the region, there are a number of ways to see species such as whooping cranes, egrets, blue herons and roseate spoonbills.

The  Texas Parks and Wildlife Department  offers good information on popular birding destinations across the region, which are all part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, a system of hundreds of viewing sites covering more than 40 counties from Beaumont to the Mexican border.

Here are a few of the more popular spots in the Greater Houston area:

Around Anahuac . Sites such as White Memorial Park and Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge offer an impressive selection of woodland and coastal species.

Around Bolivar Peninsula . A number of bird sanctuaries dot this peninsula southeast of Houston where you'll find mostly shorebirds and gulls mixed with warblers and others.

Around Clear Lake/Bay Area . The Mustang Bayou Trail, Nassau Bay Park and  Armand Bayou Nature Center  are all great places to bird in and around Galveston Bay, where you'll find sedge wrens and Le Conte sparrows.

Around Galveston. Parks and refuges including Harborside Wetlands of Galveston and San Luis Pass offer a breadth of coastal species such as terns, black skimmers and Bonaparte gulls.

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13 of the Best Kid-Friendly Day Trips from Houston

One thing we are repeatedly asked is where are our favorite day trips from Houston. So, straight from Houston moms, these are the places they love. What’s better than getting out of the same old routine with a spontaneous road trip? All of our options are great for those long weekends, summer or spring break, or anytime you feel the need to roam (but don’t have all week!).  

Texas is big… and, so is Houston. There are a lot of places you can get in one day, so to narrow it down and keep the drive time reasonable, we are highlighting trip ideas within a three hour drive . But, again, Houston is big, so you may already have a one hour jump (or deficit) on one of our suggested locales.

Fortunately, we are also blessed with options! Day trips from Houston will have many, many variations available. We’ve mentioned ones that are suggested by local moms, but there are so many more. If you have a great not-to-be-missed stop please comment below! 

Day Trips from Houston

Lake Jackson

Lake Charles

The Pineywoods

Nacogdoches, new braunfels, san antonio.

Drive Time: 1 hour

Galveston might be the quintessential day trip from Houston! It is close, if you grew up here, it is definitely familiar, and it is fun for all ages. If you are heading down with kids there are definitely some family favorites.

Outdoors & Parks

Seawolf Park | This park has been around for a long time. However, it incurred major damage during Hurricane Ike. Fortunately, that gave Galveston the opportunity for a nice glow up! Along with the usual park activities like playgrounds and fishing, Seawolf Park is home to the Galveston Naval Museum that houses the USS Cavalla, a WWII submarine, and a destroyer escort, the USS Stewart.

Ferry & Bolivar Beaches | There are beaches on Galveston Island ( Galveston Island State Park is clean, affordable, and has bathroom facilities) however if you cross the ferry you will find broader spans, better fishing, and you can drive on the beach (with a permit that can be purchased at several local vendors ). Plus, you get to ride the ferry which is free and almost a guarantee to see dolphins in the channel. The ferry gets very busy during holidays be sure to check ride times.

The most popular Bolivar Peninsula is Crystal Beach but you can turn in before or after it to avoid crowds, and they are all pretty much the same.

Bonus Attraction: Fort Travis Park | If you cross to Bolivar, just after you exit the ferry is Fort Travis Park which is home to bunkers dating back to 1898 and originally established by the Republic of Texas in 1836!

Attractions

Galveston Railroad Museum | There are trains! All kinds, from many eras, in various states of repair (or disrepair). This museum is a family favorite, sure to be enjoyed by everyone. They also host events like the Polar Express and themed dinner rides. Located at the end of The Strand it has a great location that is close to free parking and some of our favorite eateries.

Moody Gardens | Moody Gardens will keep you busy enough that it is a day trip from Houston all by itself. The iconic pyramids are seen on the drive in. Each houses a different theme – rainforest or aquarium. Additionally, on site is the Blue Lagoon beach, ziplining, the Colonel (an old paddlewheel boat) and more. Plus, the host all sorts of themed events throughout the year.

Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum | This is a fun museum that highlights a very important part of the Galveston and Houston area economy. If you can coordinate correctly, they do host Family days which are very budget friendly. Additionally, they offer overnight experiences for groups and scouts.

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier | It’s a carnival over the water – what could be more fun or picturesque? There are rides and sure fire entertainment for all ages. They also host themed days throughout the year where you can get a pretty good deal (like Homeschool Day!).

Where to Eat

The Strand | The Strand is the historic street home to many restaurants and local shops. It runs parallel to Harborside Dr. which is where you head if you are taking a cruise. Between the two streets there are a lot of good food options. The only one we never miss visiting is…

La King’s Confectionary | La King’s is an old school soda fountain and sweet shop. Try to plan ahead as they pull their salt water taffy in-house and there is always a public display but times vary – stay for the entire thing and they throw samples out to the crowd!

Star Drug Store | If you want to go a little off The Strand, Star Drug Store is a great option. Contrary to the name, it is not a pharmacy but is housed in a building that used to be a pharmacy – you can still see the old counters. It is a great place to get a sandwich for lunch. Free parking is ample in this area and the walk to The Strand is only a quarter of a mile, or so.

If you have ever driven to the Houston Zoo, instead of exiting the museum district you just keep driving out of town on Highway 288. After about an hour you’ll reach Lake Jackson (the little town that DOW built).

Outdoors & Attractions

Sea Center Texas | Sea Center Texas is perfect when you are looking for day trips from Houston. This little museum is so much more than informative. There are aquariums, touch tanks, and fantastic tours of their hatcheries. You would never imagine how interesting the breeding of redfish is! After you tour the museum, then it’s time to head outside where they have a great boardwalk out into the wetlands and many events. Plus – it is FREE!

Surfside Beach | Just down the street is the city of Surfside. Many people who do not like the Bolivar Beaches prefer the quieter beaches of Surfside. There is no driving on the beaches inside of the city limits.

Dairy Bar | Dairy Bar has been serving fresh hamburgers since 1951! This is a Lake Jackson staple. Your family and budget will love it!

Asiel’s | Asiel’s serves a fantastic breakfast and seafood with a killer view of Mammoth Lake. If the weather is nice you should grab a table on the screened in porch.

Conroe is a great destination when scouting day trips from Houston. It is so close (for some “Houstonians” it is well under 1 hour!). It has a little bit of everything you can want with a convenient drive home.

Moorhead’s Blueberry Farm | If you are there in season (usually April – June) then this is a great stop. Go early to beat the heat and crowds. Expect to spend about an hour. And, double check you do not add an ‘e’ to Moorhead when you are putting the directions in to your GPS.

7 Acre Wood | A family friendly amusement park for younger kids. It has a petting zoo, play area, games, and a child sized zip line. Throughout the year they also host themed events like egg hunts and fall festivals.

Margaritaville Lake Resort | This resort on Lake Conroe offers day passes for non-hotel guests. You will find golf, spa services, restaurants, a waterpark (complete with lazy river), mini golf, and boat & watersport rentals.

B-52 Brewing Co. | This brewery is family-friendly with ample outdoor space. The have food trucks, games and live music on Friday nights.

Buldogies | A custom hotdog spot on Lake Conroe. Plus it has popular fair food to accompany – such at cotton candy, corndogs, funnel cakes, fried Twinkies, and more!

Drive Time: 1-3 hours

The Pineywoods in the region of Texas east of Houston. There are some beautiful forests and lakes. The best way to experience them is to camp or get a day pass and find a nearby rental. We suggest any of the state parks as they are all well maintained, provide activities for kids, and are usually pretty easy to reserve. Generally, for each park you are within 30 minutes of a grocery or Walmart for provisions and small town grub.

Lake Livingston State Park | You can find one of the largest lakes in the state at Lake Livingston State Park. It is a great lake for fishing, boating, and hiking. They also have a great nature center and fishing docks that are always well-stocked with ice cream – for those hot summer days!

Huntsville State Park | Another option, Huntsville is a more intimate campground than Lake Livingston. You can still do some nice hiking and self-serve kayaks are available. Plus, it is pretty close to Houston so if something happens (because, kids!) it is easy to pack up and get home in a reasonable amount of time.

Fort Boggy State Park | Similarly, Fort Boggy offers more primitive camping options but also has some cabins for rent. It has a small no-wake lake for fishing or boating (if you bring your own).

Mission Tejas State Park | This park is great for those interested in Texas History. There are several historic sites as well as the usual park activities.

Martin Dies Jr. State Park | This park, Martin Dies, is great for groups. They also have rentals on site for canoes & kayaks. As well as several cabins.

Village Creek State Park | Choose Village Creek if you enjoy fishing, paddling, and need to be near a big city. This one is 10 miles north of Beaumont. There is one cabin available for rent on-site.

Drive Time: 2 hours 50 min.

Still in the Pineywoods on the outskirts of the Angelina National Forest is the historic city of Nacogdoches – the oldest town in Texas! You can visit the the brick-lined streets of downtown and wander the shops and restaurants, then head over to some of the more kid-friendly activities.

The Texas Forestry Museum | This area of Texas is big in lumber so it is only natural that it is home to the forestry museum. There are a lot of hands on exhibits for kids – like Timber Town, the outdoor train exhibit, and many play areas.

Splash Kingdom Timber Falls Water Park | A small waterpark with several slides, a lazy river, pools, and splash areas. Perfect for hot days!

Old Time String Shop & General Mercantile | If you have a music lover be sure to stop in here. There are old style toys and loads of musical instruments.

SFA Planetarium | On the campus of Stephen F. Austin University is a great planetarium. It is very family-friendly with shows that are appropriate for ages 3 through high school.

Caddo Mounds State Historic Site | This one is a little outside of town so you may want to swing by on your way to or from, but either way it is a great addition to your day trip from Houston. A really good site to learn a little about Texas’ own mound-building culture.

Auntie Pasta’s Italian Kitchen | Over and over this is the restaurant that is recommended most when heading to Nacogdoches. Maybe its the build your own pasta or maybe the historic, off-the-beaten path location, but it is definitely something different your family will enjoy.

Drive Time: 3 hours

First there are the Mammoths, then there is the Magnolia Empire. Waco has become quite the destination for families, girls’ weekends, for everyone.

Cameron Park Zoo | A nice smaller zoo. It can be done in about 3 hours and is part of the AZA reciprocal program. There is also a playground and splash area (for warmer visits).

Waco Mammoth National Monument | The Mammoth monument is a spectacular discovery and the set up that the national parks service provided is really great. The exhibit is very family-friendly and engaging. Your kids (and big kids) will love it!

Mayborn Museum | This is a great museum for kids. There are many hands-on exhibits, a discovery center, and a historic village they can explore.

Dr Pepper Museum & Free Enterprise Institute | This small museum has a lot of family-friendly experiences. You can taste different flavors, bottle your own, and experience the museum in augmented reality.

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum | See the exhibits, meet a ranger, and learn about this special facet of Texas History. There is a 45 minute introductory film so this may be better to do with older children.

Jake’s Texas Tea House | This is not that kind of tea house – this is Texas Tea! Expect southern fare in a great retro gas-station themed diner.

Magnolia Market at the Silos | While this may not be the best choice during busy times otherwise it is a great choice for families. There are many different food choices and huge lawns for the kids to run and play.

Hey Sugar | Okay, not really somewhere to eat but how can you pass up a candy shop when you are on your epic day trips from Houston with kids?

Drive Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Newman’s Castle | This is really the reason you are bringing your kids to Bellville. There is a castle, complete with moat and working trebuchet. It is fun! { Website }

Historic Austin County Jail Museum | Older kids will enjoy the Austin County Jail Museum housed in the historic courthouse. It is open every Saturday and by appointment other days of the week.

Bellville Meat Market | This is more market than place to eat but they do have barbecue plates. You can also stock up on all things meat (throw a cooler in the car).

Newman’s Bakery | If you are visiting the castle you will stop here first. Their food is amazing. You can enjoy all kinds of pastries and/ or a hot breakfast or lunch.

Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Austin is a destination in and of itself a simple day trip from Houston may not be enough time. As the gateway to the Hill Country it could just be stop one. But, if you are just wanting to hit the road to a familiar location Austin is a great place to aim. In fact, if you are heading in off 71 you should stop in West Point, Texas (just past La Grange). There is a fantastic drive-through safari, Sanctuary Serengeti .

McKinney Falls State Park | It used to be on the outskirts of town but now feels like it is part of town. However, it is small enough to do in one day and a great little park with falls (when there is enough water) to splash in!

Austin Nature & Science Center | This is a great center. It is adjacent to Zilker Botanic Garden and Park so you could easily explore both. The nature center has animals and creeks to explore. The kids will really enjoy it.

Barton Springs Municipal Pool | Barton Springs is a spring-fed pool. It maintains a brisk 68 degree temperature year round. If the pool is full (which happens often) you can hike Barton Creek and find other places to splash.

Texas State Capitol | This stop is for older kids. There is a lot of history and beautiful architecture. Consult the website for current visiting hours and safety protocols.

Thinkery | A fun hands-on science museum geared toward kids. There are science and art exhibits along with storytime and outdoor play spaces.

Hula Hut | Located on the water you will get great views and fun food – Tex-Mex with a Hawaiian Twist.

Kerbey Lane Cafe | An Austin classic! They have fantastic pancakes. It is definitely not a hidden-gem, it is well-known and there will be a wait and busy times – like weekend brunch. During the week you will have no problem.

Phil’s Icehouse | A fun burger joint with a playground for the kiddos. There are a few locations around Austin

Drive Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

New Braunfels is situated just between Austin and San Antonio and slightly closer than Canyon Lake. It is famous as jumping off point for some of the most popular tubing in Texas. However, a full day on the river keeping kids fed and above water can be stressful. Fortunately, there are many other activities in the region that make it a great destination for a day trip from Houston. If you are heading to San Antonio instead of home be sure to check out Natural Bridge Caverns , it can be on the way.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels | The Hill Country Schlitterbahn is the water park in Texas. It is bigger and better than the one in Galveston so if you are heading out this way it is a fun stop that kids will love! Do be aware that they do not have a “lazy” river – it is called Torrent River for a reason! However, there are many, many other areas appropriate for younger kids.

Stars and Stripes Drive-In Theatre | A modern drive-in with a vintage vibe. Along with the movies they have a great playground for kids.

McKenna Children’s Museum | We have a great children’s museum in Houston but it can be a lot particularly for younger children. This museum is small and perfect for eight and under.

New Braunfels Railroad Museum | For the young and young at heart! This train museum is perfect for all ages of train lovers. There are many displays and model trains.

It is hard to recommend food in New Braunfels because you have so many great options. It will be hard to go wrong. But, sticking with the classics is always a good idea (particularly if you’ve never been) so check out Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar .

Union Station Diner | This is a traditional American diner serving breakfast and lunch. The kids will love he train décor.

Fork & Spoon | Another breakfast and lunch option, but this one let’s you try some of the German flair the area is historically know for!

San Antonio is one of the best places to scoot over to for the day. It is just on the bounds of too far but you can do it if you have someone in the party who doesn’t mind the driving the trip home after a long day. Unless you stay overnight your day will probably be an “either – or” – either you go to a theme park (all day) or you do the river walk and smaller attractions. With kids doing both is probably asking for meltdowns. San Antonio is not just for day trips from Houston, it is a great jumping off point for bigger trips – like heading out west and Big Bend .

The Alamo | Maybe it’s a Texas thing, but we love the Alamo. Even if it is closed and we’re wandering the Riverwalk. We usually, at least, pop by to see it. It is a beautiful not-to-be-missed landmark. Even if it’s not totally your thing if you’ve never gone try it, if it’s your 300th time mix it up and wander the area. So many attractions have moved in around it. If you just want to relax, wander across the street to the Menger Hotel and have a drink in the bar (that’s where people claim to see Teddy Roosevelt’s ghost ).

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park | This is a very large park that includes four historic missions. They are beautiful and a lovely way to spend the day. Plus, it has free entrance!

SeaWorld | All the sea life you can want to see! During the summer you can add on water park tickets and during the cooler months there are many themed events. They also host some really great scout/ group overnight options.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas | When this amusement park originally opened it was three rides and lots of shows. Now it is jammed packed with fun rides and play areas for all ages. There is plenty to do for all ages and Six Flags is improving and tweaking year after year. { Website }

Riverwalk | The Riverwalk is super touristy but iconic. Even though we’ve walked it since we were kids it is still a nice relaxing stroll. Often we just pick a place, grab dinner along the river, and watch the river boats full of tired tourists putter along. Unless, you go high dollar most restaurants along the river are touristy but that is okay, especially with kids – they will be used to tired kids and the food will be designed to people please.

Magic Time Machine Restaurant | If you are looking for a unique experience here it is. This restaurant is a crazy mixed up multi-themed restaurant featuring costumed servers representing pop culture icons from somewhere in time!

Two Bros BBQ Market | This BBQ spot is casual and fun. There is a large outdoor area with picnic tables and a playground. Plenty of room for little ones to move.

StreetFare | This is where you head when no one can agree. StreetFare is a food truck park surrounding a playground. It is very family friendly.

Drive Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

If you like Texas history or forts (what kid doesn’t?!) Goliad is a fantastic destination for a day trip from Houston. And, no joke, the best gravy on a chicken fried steak I have ever found, but more on that in a minute. One more note, head down in late March to early April and you may find some great bluebonnet spots.

Goliad State Park and Historic Site | If you want to make it a camping trip Goliad SP is a nice little park to home base out of. The highway does run right through, which can make for some loud road noise at night. Texas history is forefront on this excursion but Goliad is on the San Antonio River so paddling is an option as well. In the park, be sure to tour the Mission Espiritu Santo. The park rangers are knowledgeable and it is a great tour for kids.

Presidio-La Bahia | Less than a mile away is the Presidio (the fort). Kids will love running all over he place. There are several other historic places, like General Zaragoza’s birthplace, nearby and admission is included. The fort is great and they even have a few rooms to rent if you want to sleep there.

Fort Fun City Park | On your way into town you might like this little city park. It has a huge wooden playground. Definitely keeps with the fort theme.

Empresario | Empresario is on the historic town square so aside from the food you can see the courthouse – one of the really impressive historic ones (complete with historic hanging tree). But, back tot he food! Empresario is home to the best gravy in Texas. It’s so good I am actually afraid to recommend it in case you go and find it lacking. It might break my heart! Beyond the gravy they have a robust affordable menu perfect for family dining.

Rockport is just shy of Port Aransas but there is plenty to do without driving the extra twenty minutes. If you are making more than a day trip one family friendly activity many people love is flounder gigging (particularly with older children) – but it is a nighttime activity so you will want to look into accommodations if you want to try your hand.

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge | On your way in or out of town you can go by the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. It is huge. Fortunately, there is a nice driving loop for the condensed version. Kids will love the observation tower – you know, because it is a tower. There is also an alligator viewing area that they will enjoy. Both are easy to access along the 9-mile scenic loop (the drive will take about 45 minutes the alligator viewing area is just north of the loop).

Rockport Beach Park | Rockport has a nice clean little beach. There is no driving or pets allowed at this beach. There are playgrounds, picnic tables, and restroom facilities.

Bay Education Center | Adjacent to the beach is the family-friendly Bay Education Center. It is pare of the University of Texas at Austin and free to the public. There are hands on displays for kids and a boat they can play on. It is educational and informational in a fun accessible way.

Our Family Kitchen | Consistent quality, affordable food, and good-sized portions – what more could you want? They are open for breakfast and dinner and will definitely please your family!

Apple Dumpling Deli | A great hole-in-the-wall kind of place. Deli food is served only for lunch.

Stevie Lew’s BBQ Kitchen | Great BBQ with seasonal house specials and old school thick, rich milk shakes! They also roast their own coffee daily (may seem amiss but small town places often multi-task!) and serve as the Rockport Coffeehouse, complete with bakery selection. There’s a lot going on here you should check them out!

Lake Charles, LA

Drive Time: 2 hours 15 min.

On your way to Louisiana on your day trip from Houston be sure to stop into the Texas Travel Information Center . Just before you cross the Sabine River into Louisiana, from Texas, the Texas Travel Information Center is on the northside of I-10 (westbound, but easy to get to if you are traveling eastbound). This little center is like a small museum. Plus, it has fantastic boardwalks out back that go out over the wetlands to view wildlife and possibly alligators!

Golden Nugget | If you are looking for an easy getaway this is it. Everything is onsite – restaurants, pool, and entertainment. Golden Nugget is the most kid-friendly on the area casinos and resorts with a great pool that has some small water slides and a lazy river. { Website }

Millennium Park | Millennium Park is a very large play structure. There are separate areas for younger kids. During the summer enjoy the splash pad and spray park. Plus it is right on the lake (the park is fenced) so it is a great view and has nice places to stroll around.

Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point | You don’t have to hit the trail to stop here. Adventure Point is a free attraction at the trail head with hands-on displays immersing you in Cajun/ Creole culture. Kids can make music, practice their crabbing skills, and see the wetlands.

Botsky’s | Known for their hotdogs but also make a darn good burger! They have some classic combos, like the the Duck Norris (duck sausage, spinach, feta, cherry reduction) or you can create your own. The possibilities are endless (or finite, but there are still a lot!).

Steamboat Bill’s | Looking for seafood and authentic a Cajun cooking? And, why wouldn’t you in Louisiana? Check out Steamboat Bill’s. Large portions in a family-friendly atmosphere – right on the lake.

Other Helpful Resources

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Houston, TX

The “Bayou City” or “Space City” or “Htown” (whatever you want to call it) has a ton of really fun things to do. More than any other Texas city, Houston breaks itself up into smaller pieces by districts and neighborhoods. I decided to spend my day in Houston by daytripping to some of my favorites. Now, I have a ton of favorite, but I narrowed it down to three districts. Here we go!

Houston Museum of Natural Science (Museum District)

In the heart of Houston is the Museum District , which contains 19 museums and is oozing with culture. If you only have time for one, make it the Houston Museum of Natural Science with incredible exhibits on Paleontology (think dinosaurs with a lot more), Egypt (yes they have mummies), gems, malacology, butterflies and tons more. You could literally make an entire day trip out of this museum.

The Menil Collection (Museum District)

You could literally make an entire day trip out of this museum. If art is more your speed, then you shouldn’t miss The Menil Collection, a free museum that is surely one of the best art museums in America. You can see Picasso, Warhol, McGrit and many more legendary artists all under one roof.

HK Dim Sum (Chinatown)

In Chinatown , you’ll find one of the largest Asian populations in America, and it’s much more diverse than just Chinese residents. I love it because it truly feels like a trip overseas without leaving Texas. I always like popping into HK Food Market for a shopping experience very different from my normal trips to the store. The fresh fish counter is something to behold. This spot is guaranteed to make you hungry, so head on over to HK Dim Sum  where you can eat some of the tastiest “dim sum” that I’ve ever had. It’s basically like a full meal of appetizers.

El Real Tex-Mex (Montrose)

Unfortunately, El Real Tex-Mex has permanently closed since filming.

The Chocolate Bar (Montrose)

Sadly, the Chocolate Bar has also closed since filming.

Hermann Park (Museum District)

To get some fresh air while learning all there is to learn in the Museum District head to this park. It’s the central hub of the district, which basically makes it Houston’s Central Park. Folks come out here to picnic, ride pedal boats, see the Japanese Gardens , go to the Houston Zoo and roll down Miller Hill.

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