austin texas day trip

19 Epic Day Trips from Austin

Not only is Austin the capital of Texas, the Live Music Capital of the World, and one of the best cities to visit in the state, it also happens to be located in the Texas Hill Country–which means there is no shortage of fantastic day trips from Austin!

Want to sip wine overlooking a vineyard? Explore a gigantic cave? Go antiquing? Float the river? Hit up another city? Hike in a state park? Eat some of the best barbecue in the world?

Anyone of those can be reached within a couple of hours of Austin–so no matter what your interests are, there are some Austin day trips for you.

We’ve noted the driving time from Austin under each of these day trip ideas, but note that they are calculated based on the distance from central Austin with minimal traffic.

Depending on what time of day you travel and what corner of the city you’re leaving from, the distance can vary quite dramatically!

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Day Trips Less Than An Hour From Austin

Dripping springs.

Home to the famous Hamilton Pool Preserve, plenty of wineries, and some of the most popular wedding venues in the Hill Country, Dripping Springs is one of the easiest and most popular day trips from Austin.

Start your morning with a swim in the famous Hamilton Pool (don’t forget you’ll need to make reservations in advance!), and spend the afternoon sipping wine.

Have a little extra time? Stop in nearby Driftwood for dinner at The Salt Lick before heading back to Austin.

Driving Distance from Austin

35 minutes.

Colorful and laid back, beautiful Wimberley is one of the best day trips from Austin for those looking for a combination of small-town charm (be sure to hunt down the many decorated boot statues to snap photos of and to stop in the town’s many great boutiques) and outdoor adventure.

In addition to a cute downtown, Wimberley is also home to Jacob’s Well and the Blue Hole , two of the most popular swimming holes in the Hill Country!

45 minutes.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Wimberley !

Home to several restaurants vying for the title of the best barbecue in Texas (and frankly, the world), Lockhart is the barbecue capital of the state and packed with fantastic flavors in every direction.

The most popular barbecue joints in town are Smitty’s, Kreuz Market, Black’s, and Chisholm Trail BBQ, but as for which one is the absolute best–that’s a matter of opinion, and the best way to find out is to try them all for yourself.

Krause Springs

With turquoise water, beautiful gardens, greenery everywhere you look, and plenty of shade, visiting Krause Springs is not only a fun day trip from Austin, but visiting may also feel like you’ve left Texas entirely!

The property is privately owned and home to a whopping 32 natural springs that are used to create both manmade and natural swimming pools.

Come to kick back, relax, and enjoy a swim in one of the most beautiful places in the Texas Hill Country–but be warned, the water is an icy 68 degrees year-round, so you’ll be a bit chilly when you first jump in!

Located just north of Austin, Georgetown is home to one of the loveliest historic downtowns in Texas, with a main square that has been declared the most beautiful in the state.

Once you finish exploring downtown, experience a bit of Georgetown’s nature: depending on your mood, you can either head to the Blue Hole for a swim (not the same one as in Wimberley!) or get underground at the impressive Inner Space Cavern.

New Braunfels

For a fairly small town, New Braunfels is positively packed with things to do, from the beautiful Gruene Historic District (home to the iconic Gruene Hall) to floating the river, to visiting Schlitterbahn, to touring the incredible Natural Bridge Caverns.

There’s no way to cover all the best things to do in New Braunfels on an Austin day trip, but you can definitely pick your favorites and have an incredibly memorable day out.

While the Round Rock of today is more or less a suburb of Austin, the city has its own history dating back to 1848, along with a slew of fun things to do.

Visit Round Rock’s very own bat colony, explore its cute downtown center, check out a park or two, find the round rock that the city is named for, and–most importantly, if you ask us–try some of the absolutely legendary Round Rock Donuts.

25 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… but there’s no reason why you can’t squeeze in both!

There are also plenty of other things to see in and around San Marcos, though: consider going snorkeling, hunting down some of the city’s colorful murals, or going for a glass-bottom boat tour as part of your day trip from Austin.

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

Home to excellent hiking trails, plenty of wildlife, and arguably some of the best sunset views in Texas from its observation decks, Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic destination for those hoping to leave the city behind for a day!

Getaways Less Than 2 Hours From Austin

Johnson city + pedernales falls.

For a combination of US History, classic Texas countryside, and great swimming on your Austin day trip, head to Johnson City and the surrounding area–home of the LBJ Ranch–to tour the former president’s childhood home, working ranch, and the Texas White House.

Once you wrap up, head next door to Pedernales Falls State Park for a bit of hiking and plenty of swimming in the subtle-but-beautiful falls.

Fredericksburg

Known across Texas for its German heritage and prime location along the official Texas Wine Trail, Fredericksburg is a Hill Country favorite for a reason.

Whether you want to hit up half a dozen wineries (or more, who’s counting), go antiquing, hike to the top of Enchanted Rock , or pick your own peaches during the summer, Fredericksburg always has something to offer people looking for a day trip from Austin.

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Fredericksburg !

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Located just 17 miles north of Fredericksburg, you can combine both Enchanted Rock and Fredericksburg into one Austin day trip, but Enchanted Rock also works as a standalone visit!

This mountain of pink granite has captivated humans for thousands of years, and climbing to the top is one of the most unique hikes in Texas. Be warned, though: there is absolutely no shade on Enchanted Rock, so plenty of water and sun protection are absolute musts!

1 hour, 45 minutes.

San Antonio

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Texas, San Antonio is packed with fun places to visit, including the famous Alamo, the rest of the UNESCO-recognized San Antonio Missions, the Riverwalk, the bustling Historic Market Square, and charming La Villita.

Taking a day trip from Austin to San Antonio means getting a (very) early start to avoid the generally terrible traffic that clogs the highway between the two cities–but if you time it right, it’s absolutely worth it.

1 hour, 15 minutes.

Marble Falls

Located on the banks of Lake Marble Falls (which aren’t set on marble at all, but that classic Texas staple of limestone), Marble Falls is a charming Hill Country town perfect for travelers looking to enjoy the outdoors and those hoping to hit up the small-but-lovely downtown.

Be sure not to leave town without trying a slice of pie from the Bluebonnet Cafe, which serves up some of the best pie in Texas!

Most Texans are incredibly familiar with Shiner, even if they’ve never considered visiting this small Texas town with a population of merely 2,000 people: this is the home of Shiner Beer, a staple of all Texas grocery stores!

This claim to fame means that, by far, the most popular thing to do in Shiner is touring the home of Shiner Beer, Spoetzl Brewery–but it’s worth staying long enough to check out the cute downtown after you wrap up your time at the brewery!

Colorado Bend State Park

For a park so lush that you’ll almost forget you’re in Texas, head to Colorado Bend State Park, home to great hiking, beautiful waterfalls (including incredible 70-foot Gorman Falls), and great swimming holes.

Want a little more adventure? Consider signing up for a wild cave tour!

1 hour, 50 minutes.

Long known as the home of Baylor University, Waco has become one of the most popular day trips from Austin in recent years for a very different reason: the opening of Magnolia Market, owned by Chip & Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame.

Even beyond the immensely popular Silos, though, Waco has plenty to see: consider also stopping by the Dr. Pepper Museum, enjoying Baylor’s beautiful campus, or checking out the Wooly Mammoth National Monument during your visit.

1 hour, 35 minutes.

Longhorn Cavern State Park

As one of the most unique caves in Texas, touring Longhorn Cavern will take you through multiple rooms while explaining the history and geology of the cavern.

The state park itself goes beyond the cavern, though: consider hiking on one of the trails or catching a glimpse of nearby Falkenstein Castle!

Austin Day Trips More Than 2 Hours Away

Lost maples state natural area.

By far, Lost Maples State Natural Area is the furthest of these day trips from Austin, but this beautiful park is definitely worth the drive… especially in the fall, when Lost Maples becomes one of the best places to spot fall foliage in Texas.

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

2 hours, 45 minutes.

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32 Interesting Day Trips from Austin, Texas

Looking for the best day trips from Austin, Texas?

Discover amazing destinations in the Texas Hill Country and beyond within easy reach of Austin in this epic guide.

When it comes to day trips in Texas, Austin is our favorite base.

The city’s location in the center of the Texas Hill Country ensures you have numerous options for day trips at your disposal from state parks and waterfalls to museums and amusement parks.

Also Read: 21 Best Road Trips from Austin, Texas

Enjoy a dip in Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley or visit the Alamo in San Antonio. Admire the Christmas lights in Johnson City or float down the San Marcos River.

Visiting Austin? Read below city guides! Weekend in Austin Itinerary Best Things to do in Austin, Texas Austin to Big Bend Road Trip

Most of the Austin day trips are within Central Texas but you can also visit attractions such as Brenham and College Station in Eastern Texas.

Looking for a break from Downtown Austin and looking for fun things to do outside the city?

Plan a trip to these amazing destinations near the Big City for a breath of fresh air, natural beauty, and unique attractions!

Also Read: Best Things to do in the Texas Hill Country

Best Austin Suburbs that make amazing day trips

Austin’s many suburbs make excellent day trips if you are looking for a quick and easy getaway.

Here is our list of amazing day trips just an hour away from Austin, Texas.

Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas

Round Rock is the top day trip destination for Austinites to enjoy a day outdoors.

There are many things to do in Round Rock and great places to eat at the same time.

Some of the most popular activities include playing a round of golf, fly fishing, exploring nature trails, enjoying a game at Old Settlers Park, and shopping at The Arboretum.

Georgetown is one of the best day trips from Austin for those who love nature, architecture, and good Tex-Mex.

Downtown Georgetown is famous for its pretty Town Square, old architecture, historic courthouse building, and small town charm.

A must see stop in Georgetown is the Inner Space Cavern where you can go on cave tours, enjoy zip lining, and even see fossils.

During spring, the town is ablaze with red poppies and is an amazing sight.

Another one of our favorite day trips from Austin is to San Marcos .

This college town has a hip vibe and plenty of attractions.

Float down the San Marcos River for a relaxed fun day. Visit the museums to learn about the history of San Marcos.

Enjoy shopping at boutiques or check out one of its many local breweries.

One of the best day trips from Austin, Texas for foodies is to Lockhart!

Lockhart is famously known as the barbecue capital of Texas and a must for smoked meat lovers.

Find the best bbq in Lockhart at Smitty’s Market, Kreuz Market, and Black’s BBQ.

Best Dinosaur Attractions to visit on a day trip from Austin with kids

The Texas Hill County and surrounding areas are home to the best dinosaur attractions in Texas!

Visit some of these awesome places to dig for fossils, see life-sized dinosaurs up close, and learn more about prehistoric times.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Texas with kids

Dinosaur Park, Cedar Creek

The Dinosaur Park near Bastrop features several acres with over 40 life-sized dinosaurs.

Kids can walk on the trail to see the dinosaurs including T-Rex, Allosaurus, Stegosaurus, and Triceratops.

There is also a fossil dig pit where kids can search for fossils and more.

Dinosaur Tracks, Leander

In Leander, you can see preserved dinosaur tracks in the bed of the San Gabriel River.

This is a hidden gem and you will often find the area to yourself.

Best time to visit to see the tracks is in summer when the water level is pretty low.

The exact address to the parking lot is 601 S. Gabriel Dr, Leander, Texas; from there follow the unmarked trail to the river bed under the highway bridge.

Canyon Lake

Love dinosaurs? Take younger kids to see dinosaur tracks at the Heritage Museum of the Texas Hill Country in Canyon Lake.

At the museum, they can see fossilized tracks made by acrocanthosaurus and iguanodon.

They can also dig for their own fossils on the Fossil Ridge tour.

The Canyon Lake Gorge Tour is another favorite to see preserved tracks and fossils.

Canyon Lake is also one of our favorite day trips from Austin for outdoor lovers.

The lake has excellent fishing and boating. Canyon Lake also offers good swimming in the summer months.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco, Texas is a great place to visit for kids of all ages.

This makes it one of the best day trips from Austin if you are looking for something outdoorsy, cool, and educational.

The Waco Mammoth National Monument preserves the remains of 24 Columbian mammoths.

You can go on a ranger-led tour to see their skeletons, learn about life back then, and even dig up fossils yourself!

There are also replica mammoths for children to play with in the park.

Other Waco attractions include Dr. Pepper Museum, Magnolia Market at Silos , Texas ranger hall of Fame and Museum and cruise on the Brazos River.

Also Read: Best Dinosaur Museums in Texas

Best State Park Day Trips from Austin

Enjoy nature? Go on one of these day trips from Austin to some of the best state parks around the state capital.

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

Pedernales Falls State Park

One of our favorite day trips from Austin for nature lovers is to Pedernales Falls State Park.

The park offers many short and long hikes to the waterfalls , swimming holes, cliffs, and the Pedernales River.

Don’t forget to bring your mountain bikes for a spin down one of the many trails in the park.

Inks Lake State Park

Located near the town of Burnet, Inks Lake State Park is our favorite Austin day trip for those looking to get outside and enjoy nature.

The jewel of Inks Lake State Park is Inks Lake. The lake offers excellent fishing and boating.

Other things to do in Inks Lake State Park include jumping from the cliffs at Devil’s Hole, camping, kayaking and hiking.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Another one of our favorite day trips from Austin is Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

The pink granite dome, which is a designated wildlife sanctuary and natural landmark, is the highest point in the Hill Country.

There are over 80 miles of trails to explore Enchanted Rock State Park. Pick up your rock climbing permits at the visitor center.

The park is a favorite among families and very popular for wildflowers in spring.

Guadalupe River State Park

Guadalupe River State Park offers excellent camping, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking.

More than 9 miles of the park’s 40 mile loop are available for mountain biking.

The water in the river often reaches 80 degrees during summer making it perfect for tubing.

The park is our top pick for autumn day trips from Austin, Texas.

During fall, you can enjoy vivid colors on the river bank trees, making this one of the best fall destinations in Texas .

Colorado Bend State Park

Located in the Texas Hill Country, Colorado Bend State Park is a perfect day trip for campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The park offers scenic hiking trails, wildflowers, swimming holes, and an abundance of wildlife!

The highlight of a visit here is Gorman Falls, the tallest accessible waterfall in Texas.

This 70 foot tall beauty cascades down the cliffs and can be seen after a moderate 2.5 miles round trip hike.

Other hiking trails along the banks of the Colorado River are also popular with outdoor lovers.

The park makes one of the most fun day trips from Austin.

Natural Bridge Caverns

Another unique attraction near Austin is the Natural Bridge Caverns. While not a state park, this area has amazing natural attractions.

The attraction is home to one of the largest natural bridges in the world.

On a visit, you can admire a spectacular cave system and see geological formations such as stalagmites, stalactites, and much more.

Natural Bridge Caverns is located between San Antonio and Austin in New Braunfels.

Other attractions at Natural Bridges include zip lining, gem mining, and bat flights at dusk.

Also Read: Best Bat caves in Texas

Best Spring Day Trips from Austin for nature lovers

Austin is the perfect place to scout for bluebonnets and other wildflowers in the Texas Hill Country.

Here are our favorite places to see the state flower near Austin.

Marble Falls

Marble Falls is an amazing day trip from Austin for those who love exploring hidden gems.

This small central Texas town, located on the shores of Lake Marble Falls, has a charming downtown area.

Admire the sculptures on Main Street, browse through local shops, and pick strawberries at Sweet Berry Farm while in Marble Falls.

During spring, Marble Falls is one of the best places to see bluebonnets in Texas .

Highland Lakes Bluebonnet Trail

Looking for the perfect day trip from Austin to see the gorgeous bluebonnets in spring?

Drive the Highland Lakes Bluebonnet Trail!

The route will take you through the cities of Marble Falls, Burnet, and Llano.

The small town of Burnet is known for its bluebonnet festival while Llano is the bluebonnet capital of Texas.

Along the way, stop at Turkey Bend Recreation Area in Marble Falls.

Located on the northern shore of Lake Travis, it is known for gorgeous wildflower fields along the water.

Best Swimming and beach day trips from Austin

Looking for the perfect summer day trips from Austin to cool off on hot days?

Here are some of our favorite nearby swimming spots!

Wimberly, located in the Texas Hill Country, is one of our favorite day trips from Austin.

Wimberley is home to Texas famous swimming hole, Blue Hole.

This spring-fed natural pool is perfect for a refreshing dip and extremely popular in the summer!

Other things to do at Blue Hole Park include picnicking, hiking as well as play areas.

Wimberley itself is also an amazing destination with scenic drives, rugged landscapes and wildflower fields blooming in springtime.

Lake Travis

Lake Travis itself is another fun day trip from Austin for water lovers.

Take a tour of the lake on board a paddle wheel cruise.

Launch a boat from the Emerald Point Marina and enjoy a day on the water.

Other popular lake activities include fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

In fact, Lake Travis is one of the best kayaking destinations in Texas .

End the day with a romantic meal at one of the lakeside restaurants.

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Probably one of the most popular Austin day trips is to Hamilton Pool Preserve in Dripping Springs.

This is one of the most famous swimming holes in the Hill Country.

There is nothing better on a hot summer day than to splash in the great swimming hole and admire the views of the waterfall and the cliffs.

Make sure to reserve your tickets before planning a trip to Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs.

Spicewood Springs

Spicewood Springs, located between Austin and San Marcos, is the perfect day trip for those who love to swim.

Take a dip in the natural spring swimming pool at Krause Springs or enjoy boating on Lake Travis at Muleshoe Bend .

Spicewood Springs is also home to several wineries.

Best Small Town Day Trips from Austin

Several Texas Hill Country small towns are great day trips from Austin.

Admire the charming Main Street, shop local, and have a romantic day exploring these destinations.

Johnson City

Johnson City is the right choice for anyone looking for a family day trip, especially if you love American history.

One of the famous attractions in Johnson City is the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.

At Johnson National Park, visitors can tour the LBJ Ranch which served as the Texas White House for the President, see a living history farm, pay respects at the Johnson Family Cemetery and learn about the LBJ Presidency.

Other fun things to do in Johnson City include the Science Mill museum for children, charming downtown, and plenty of wineries.

Dripping Springs

Dripping Springs makes an excellent day trip near Austin.

The city is quickly becoming one of the top spots to visit in Texas for its natural beauty, local wineries, and bustling restaurants.

Popular things to do in Dripping Springs include taking a stroll in the historic downtown district, antiquing, checking art galleries by local artists, and checking out the local breweries.

The small town of Gruene is a must if you are visiting the nearby city of New Braunfels on a day trip.

Gruene is located just 10 mins away from New Braunfels.

The Gruene Historic District is home to several landmarks including the Gruene Hall, which is the oldest dance hall in Texas.

Enjoy shopping at the general store and have a romantic dinner at the Gristmill restaurant while in Gruene.

Luckenbach is a great one stop shop if you are looking for cool ideas for day trip ideas from Austin.

This small Texas town is known for its handful of buildings and locals.

The town is a must for country music fans; on weekends you will find country, western, and Texas swing musicians playing to full crowds.

Driftwood, Texas is home to the famous Salt Lick bbq and a must.

Salt Lick bbq is considered by many to be one of the best bbq’s in Central Texas.

They are famous for all types of smoked meats including the Texas brisket.

Other Driftwood attractions include a vintage Texaco gas station, charming downtown, and plenty of wineries.

The town is also home to the Desert Door Distillery which is famous for sotol, a distilled Mexican spirit similar to mezcal.

If you are looking for a day trip from Austin, Texas to enjoy the beautiful scenery of farm lands and nature, we suggest heading out to Brenham.

At Blue Bell Creameries, tour their impressive facility, learn what makes their ice cream so famous, and sample different flavors.

Besides Ice Cream, there’s plenty of other fun things to do in Brenham including bluebonnet trails, Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, and beautiful murals downtown.

Lampasas, located west of Austin, makes an excellent day trip from the city.

The small town is most famous for the natural mineral springs swimming pool at Hancock Springs Park.

Lampasas also has a pretty downtown with plenty of murals and public art.

Also Read: 20 Awesome Things to do in Lampasas, Texas

Best Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Austin

Several Texan cities are also located close enough to see on a day trip from Austin.

They are home to popular urban attractions, shopping, nightlife, and a great culinary scene.

Here are the best cities near Austin, Texas.

San Antonio

San Antonio is the gem of Texas.

It makes a great day trip destination from Austin because of the proximity.

The city is home to several famous attractions including the Alamo and the San Antonio River Walk .

Visit The Alamo and learn about the famous Battle of Alamo that was fought there.

Admire the Spanish architecture on the San Antonio River Walk and stroll along the path enjoying the scenery.

Take a cruise down the San Antonio River and visit the many museums in the city.

San Antonio, with its urban attractions, makes the perfect day trip for families.

New Braunfels

New Braunfels , with its unique German heritage, is one of our favorite day trips from Austin.

This charming city is especially great in the fall when you can enjoy Oktoberfest in the Lone Star State.

There is nothing like sipping on some German beer and eating pretzels while listening to traditional polka live music.

New Braunfels also puts on amazing Christmas celebrations and is our top pick for those looking for festive day trips from Austin, Texas.

Because of its many attractions such as Schlitterbahn Water Park, Railroad Museum, Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo, and Landa Park mini golf course, New Braunfels also makes a great weekend trip from downtown Austin.

Also Read: Best German Towns in Texas to Visit Now

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg , the gem of Central Texas, is one of our favorite Austin day trips.

The city has a strong German heritage which is seen in its architecture, historic buildings, German cuisine, and Christmas traditions.

The charming Main Street with shops, eateries, and breweries is perfect for a stroll.

Visit attractions such as the National Museum of the Pacific War, Japanese Garden, and the Pioneer Museum.

Enjoy wine flights in the tasting rooms or drink craft beer at the many local breweries.

The city also makes a fun weekend getaway from Austin.

Also Read: Best Christmas destinations in Texas

College Station

College Station is home to Texas A&M University and one of the best day trips from Austin for families.

During spring, you can experience bluebonnet trails in Aggieland.

Other College Station attractions include George Bush Presidential Library, Aggieland Safari, and Texas World Speedway.

Short on time? Did you know that you can visit Houston on a day trip from Austin?

There’s a ton to do in the country’s 4th largest city.

Visit NASA Johnson Space Center, Kemah Boardwalk, The Galleria, and Downtown Aquarium.

Read our post on best things to do in Houston for more information.

Austin is a prime location for exploring the amazing scenery, natural attractions, and charming small towns of Central Texas.

Be sure to include some of these on your trip while visiting Austin.

Know of any other fun places within an hour’s drive from Austin? Let us know in the comments!

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7 of the best day trips from Austin

Dec 6, 2023 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

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

Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

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

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

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

2. Fredericksburg is a surprising wine destination

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

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

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

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

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

3. Hit the trails at Pedernales Falls State Park

Travel time: 1 hour

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

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

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

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

Travel time: 35 minutes

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

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

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

5. Tube the river in San Marcos, Texas

Travel time: 40 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

6. Party on the water in Lake Travis

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

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

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

7. Enjoy small-town fun in Wimberly 

Travel time: 50 minutes

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

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

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

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

This article was first published January 2020 and updated December 2023

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The 11 best day trips from Austin

Bat City is a great base for exploring the heart of the Lone Star State – just take a look at the best day trips from Austin

If you wanted to call Austin the star attraction of central Texas, we wouldn’t disagree – the place is packed with fun  things to do , delicious restaurants  and seriously rowdy nightlife . But it also acts as a great base from which to explore the surrounding smaller towns and cities, which is where these day trips from Austin come in.

In under two hours from the heart of city, you can find yourself sampling Texan wines in the Hill Country or on a thrilling bike tour of the Texas White House. And did we mention all of the barbecue food the Lone Star State has to offer? There’s a lot to get stuck into.

One piece of advice before we begin: traveling around Texas usually requires access to a car, so make sure you sort out a rental before you set off. But with that done, you’ll be free to make the most of the part of Texas.

RECOMMENDED: the best things to do in Austin

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Best day trips from Austin, ranked

1.  Lockhart

The main draw in Lockhart is its world-famous barbecue, with Black’s Barbecue (get the thickly barked brisket), Chisholm Trail BBQ (the three-meat plate is Lockhart's best bargain), Kreuz Market (sausage is king here) and Smitty’s Market (which has the only good barbecue sauce you'll find in town) all vying for your brisket buck. But there are plenty of other things to do if you need a little time to digest. Swim, fish and play a round of golf at nearby Lockhart State Park, get fitted for a 10-gallon hat at Texas Hatters or snap some pics in front of the historic limestone county courthouse. 

45mins by car

2.  Fredericksburg

Filled with old-world architecture, German restaurants and specialty shops, Fredericksburg has been drawing in Austin’s weekend warriors for decades. Start your adventure with a hike at Enchanted Rock , a massive pink granite formation located 17 miles outside of town. Then hire a shuttle to drive you to a winery or four. Our faves include Ab Astris , a family-owned, boutique winery that produces brilliant vintages using Texas-grown fruit, and Southhold Farm and Cellar , perched with breathtaking Hill Country views and delicious food pairings. Finish out the day with dinner at either contemporary German joint Otto’s or New American eatery Hill & Vine , both of which combine small town charm with a big city palate. If it’s summer, be sure to come home with a bag full of the region's world-famous peaches .

1hr and 25mins by car

3.  Dripping Springs

Whether you know your ryes from your malts or the differences between grapes, Dripping Springs is the place to go for a tipple. One of the things it's most famous for is the sheer amount of breweries, wineries and distilleries. Time it right and you can visit a whole bunch in one fell swoop. You’ve got Jester King ale, Desert Door sotol (a spirit made from desert spoon plant), Solaro wine, and vodka at Dripping Springs Distillery , to name a manageable amount. Of course, if you don’t drink, you can always head on down to the gloriously verdant Solstice Gardens or Hamilton Pool .

35mins by car

4.  San Antonio

The taco rivalry aside, there are hundreds of reasons why an Austinite should spend the day in San Antonio. The culinary scene is booming, with many of the best restaurants in San Antonio serving internationally inspired fare such as French Brasserie Mon Chou Chou (the desserts are beautiful), Asian-American restaurant Best Quality Daughter (try the famous Char Siu), and Caribbean street food stand Mi Roti (obvs, go roti-crazy). For those not wanting to venture too far from Texan fare, the coolest kid in town is Domingo , on the riverwalk. They’re a modern tribute to South Texas, so if you love fish tacos and a juicy steak, you’re in heaven. The arts scene is having a moment, too. The San Antonio Museum of Art  is always stellar, not to mention newbies like  Hopscotch  which combines cocktails and art for the best immersive museum experience statewide.

1hr and 20mins by car

📍 Check out the best things to do in San Antonio

5.  Bastrop

A little detox haven for those who overindulged in Austin. This small city, less than an hour's drive away, is home to the Lost Pines Spa , where you can get a massage and a herb garden salt glow before getting snap happy at the wild Dinosaur Park . Continue the nature walks through Bastrop State Park to work up an appetite, then head to Maxine’s Cafe where you can eat just about anything fried.

6.  Driftwood

Even closer to Austin than Bastrop is Driftwood. Here you can get your sommelier on at Duchman Family Winery , which uses Texan grapes, but looks like it could be straight out of Sicily. Before you get tipsy, though, go and marvel at the vast and architecturally stunning Radha Madhav Dham Hindu Temple , where they also have peacocks roaming freely. Finally, saving the best until last, venture forth to Salt Lick BBQ , a Driftwood institution that's second to none when it comes to grilling meat. It’s worth noting though that they accept cash only, so hit the ATM first.

7.  Waco

Waco saw tourism boon following HGTV’s Fixer Upper, but cribbing shiplap style at Magnolia Market is hardly the only thing to do. Learn the science behind soda at the Dr. Pepper museum ’s liquid laboratory. Meet Galapagos tortoises and capybara at the natural habitat Cameron Park Zoo . Or go back in time at the perfectly preserved postwar burger joint Health Camp . If you’re still in the mood for some shopping, you’ll find everything from scented candles to farmhouse antiques and womenswear at downtown’s Spice Village .

1hr and 35mins by car

📍 Check out the best things to do in Waco

8.  Wimberley

A little bit country and a little bit rock and roll, Wimberley doesn’t quite feel like any other town in Hill Country. Start the morning with a cold brew from Sip! on the Square and a few kolaches from the Sugar Shack Bakery , then take some selfies in front of one of the town’s 50 giant decorated boots (dubbed Bootiful Wimberley ). In the mood for shopping? Stop by shops that include foodie mecca Kiss the Cook, legendary thrift store The Bazaar , contemporary fiber craft spot Ply and interior design house Rancho Deluxe . In the summer, take a dip surrounded by old-growth cypress trees at the Blue Hole .

55mins by car

9.  Georgetown

You would never know it from the highway, but Georgetown boasts a town square that makes Back to the Future's courthouse square look shabby. There you can check out one of the visiting exhibits at Georgetown Art Center or catch a matinee musical at the Palace Theatre . The highway does have at least one great attraction, though: Inner Space Caverns offers everything from guided spelunking to group tours of their stunning caves.

10.  Johnson City

Johnson City became internationally known in the 1960s as the site of President Lyndon Johnson’s Texas White House , which has been open to history buffs since 2007. Try a bike tour with Ranch Road One, which takes you through his gorgeous gardens and ranch easily and breezily. Science lovers can geek out at Hill Country Science Mill , a super cool presentation of science with tech (think: 4D and virtual reality). If you visit during the winter holidays, almost the whole town gets into the festive spirit, so expect lights galore.

11.  New Braunfels and Gruene

If you’re going to New Braunfels, make sure you wear a swimsuit. For locals, tubing is almost a daily ritual during the summer, with both the Guadalupe and Comal rivers intersecting the town and the spring-fed Schlitterbahn water park providing a slightly less au naturale experience. Before you dip your toes in, stop by at Faust Brewing Co. for a plate of German nachos and a stainless steel growler of golden ale. Then head to Canyon Lake Marina to rent a kayak or Texas Ski Ranch for wakeboarding and waterskiing. Once you dry off, check out the assortment of novelties at Got Toys before honky-tonking at Gruene Hall ,  where greats like Lyle Lovett and George Strait got their start.

50mins by car

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21 Awesome Day Trips from Austin Texas

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: March 30, 2024

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

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

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

21 Best Day Trips from Austin Texas

Fredericksburg.

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: 15 Best Places to Visit in Texas

Marble Falls

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

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

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

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

San Antonio

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: 15 Best Historic Sites in Texas

Johnson City

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

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

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

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

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bryan-College Station

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

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

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

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

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

Krause Springs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: 15 Best Small Towns in TEXAS

New Braunfels

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

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

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

Hamilton Pool

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pedernales Falls State Park

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

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

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

Inks Lake State Park

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

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

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

McKinney Falls State Park

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

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

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

Bastrop State Park

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

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

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

Palmetto State Park

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

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

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

Colorado Bend State Park

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

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

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

Final Thoughts Austin Day Trips

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

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20 Fun and Easy Day Trips From Austin

Austin is consistently named one of the  best cities in Texas  to visit.  I mean, it is the “hipster” cool city of Texas.  There are truly so many  things to do in Austin  that you could easily stay busy for weeks. 

If you’re like us though, after a few days in the big city, we are ready for a break. To accomplish this, we head for one of the small towns in The Lone Star State.

Austin is in a prime location for some of the best day trips .  Sitting on the edge of the Texas Hill Country means that you have several awesome locations perfect for day trips within a few hours of Austin .

When the need to get out of the city arises, grab your  road trip essentials  and head out to explore this list of great  day trips from Austin.  

The surrounding area is perfect for a day trip or two.  For it is in this area that you will find some amazing  small Texas towns , outstanding Texas wineries, and some awesome state parks which are great  camping spots near Austin !

So let’s dive in and see all of the fabulous things there are to do on a day trip from Austin!

*This post contains affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you. That Texas Couple is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Day Trips from Austin

If you are looking for a charming small Texas Hill Country town that has plenty to do on your day trip from Austin, then you need to check out all of the  things to do in Wimberley, TX . 

Wimberley is located just 45 minutes from Austin, making it one of the easiest day trips from Austin, TX that there is!

This little community packs a big punch.  The town square boasts lots of cute boutique shops, art galleries , and some fun restaurants .

We love quaint towns that offer so much variety, especially when that variety includes wineries, good food, and lots of outdoor activities. 

Not only that, but Wimberley also offers loads of unique accommodations, making it one of the best day trips and one of our  romantic getaways in Texas  also!

Read Next: 40+ Free Things To Do In Austin

Things to do in Wimberley, TX

On your day trip, cool off on a hot summer day by visiting the natural pool that is Jacob’s Well .  This awesome site is part of the Jacob’s Well Natural Area and is one of the best swimming holes in The Lone Star State as the water is a cool 68-degrees! 

Be sure you make a reservation as Jacob’s Well is really popular and they limit capacity.

Another awesome swimming hole to cool off in while visiting the Texas Hill Country is the natural pool, Blue Hole Regional Park .  Here, the cypress trees shade the beautiful spring-fed waters of this popular swimming hole allowing you to beat the heat and have some protection from the sun.

Blue Hole Regional Park itself is over 126-acres and has restrooms, parking, and nice spots for a picnic lunch.  Like Jacob’s Well, this swimming hole fills up fast, so be sure to make a reservation .

Sip some wine during your day trip at Wimberley Valley Winery.  One of our favorite Texas wineries, Wimberley Valley Winery not only has some great wines for you to enjoy, but their outdoor areas are amazing. 

They have a great deck area complete with giant Jenga and fountains for you to enjoy.  If you would rather have a quiet spot to yourself, then just choose one of the many areas around their property where they have spread out tables and Adirondack chairs.

Spend the day visiting one of the many art galleries in Wimberley.  Wimberley prides itself on being an artistic community.   It is apparent throughout the town.  Take some time to enjoy the many art galleries.

Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth? Wimberly is one of the day trip ideas perfect for that!  Then head to Sugar Shack bakery.  Here you will find an incredible array of baked goods sure to please.

Wimberley also comes alive during the holiday season and is a great place to spend Christmas in Texas .

Pedernales Falls State Park

The Lone Star State is full of so many great state parks in the Texas Hill Country, and Pedernales Falls is no exception to this.  Located just 30 miles west of Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park is one of the best day trips from Austin, TX.

The cascading water that flows over the natural limestone in this area brings visitors from all over to enjoy this beautiful Texas gem.  Here you can enjoy soaking in the cool river water after spending time hiking on the many trails of the park.

Pedernales Falls State Park is one of the best Austin day trips for outdoor lovers and a fun day out in nature.

Canyon Lake

The town of Canyon Lake proudly proclaims that it is the “ Water Recreation Capital of Texas ” and a short drive from Austin.  I assume that is because this Texas Hill Country town area offers visitors so many opportunities to enjoy outdoor and water-related activities while visiting.  That’s easy when the lake itself covers over 8,200-acres!

Canyon Lake is also one of the deepest lakes in The Lone Star State and is well stocked with fish.  Here you can enjoy the family-friendly parks offering camping, glamping , and picnic areas before heading out for a day on the water, or time on the hiking trails.

This is a great day trip from Austin for people who love lake recreation!

Things to do in Canyon Lake, TX

Tubing makes for the perfect day trip from Austin activity!  If you are so inclined, you can even use this area as a starting point to go tubing down the Guadalupe River , a favorite summer activity in Texas.

Does skiing or boat riding top your list of day trip ideas?  If so, then consider Canyon Lake! Canyon Lake is a fabulous Texas Hill Country lake to just have some good old fun in the sun.  Bring (or rent) a boat for the day and enjoy skiing, tubing, or just sightseeing during your day trip.

Birdwatch !  Canyon Lake is home to a variety of sea birds, making it a great place to do some bird watching.

For a fun day, go fishing !  As we said above, Canyon Lake is well stocked with fish. There is an abundance of bass and catfish that call Canyon Lake home.

A day trip from Austin to Gruene will make you feel like you have stepped back in time.  Boasting the oldest continually running dance hall in Texas , Gruene Hall, this small town is big on charm.  We love strolling around the city center and historic district taking in all of the fun shops before grabbing dinner at the famous Gristmill Restaurant.

Honestly, the small town of Gruene is so relaxing and laid back, I could spend tons of time here! This little town is perfect for an Austin day trip!

Things to do in Gruene

Shopping in the town center of Gruene is one of the highlights of a visit here and should be on your day trip itinerary.  We love the charming county stores and the one-of-a-kind items that you can find here.

Learn to two-step at Gruene Hall.  A visit to Gruene is not complete until you have spent an evening kicking up your heels in Gruene Hall while listening to live music.  Built in the early 19th century, this Texas dance hall has hosted singers from far and wide.  We love that the hall hasn’t changed much since its inception. I mean, Willie Nelson has played here!

You have to float the river if you are visiting in the summer.  Floating the river in this area is a tradition for Texans.  We look for any way possible to beat the heat and have a good time!

New Braunfels

Another great day trip from Austin is New Braunfels.  This little German tow n is a fun destination that is an easy getaway from Austin.

Most Texans find their way to New Braunfels to float the rivers that cut through this Texas Hill Country town.  For you see, it is New Braunfels that boasts both the Guadalupe and Comal River . 

Don’t worry though, if you aren’t visiting in the summer, New Braunfels still tops our list of fun Austin day trips!

Things to do in New Braunfels, TX

Consider checking out these things to do in New Braunfels during your time at this day trip destination:

Float the river .  As we mentioned above, both the Guadalupe and the Comal Rivers flow through New Braunfels.  If you are looking for a short float, then you definitely want the Comal.  This is a great introduction to river floating.  If you are in the mood for more time on the river, then the Guadalupe is for you!

Drink and eat at the many German establishments in town during your day trip.  We especially love visiting Guadalupe Brewing Company.  Get their Chocolate Pecan Stout if it is available–trust us!

Get wet at Schlitterbahn Water Park .  This is a HUGE attraction for Texans during the summer.  The water park encompasses over 70-acres and uses the spring-fed river water to help cool you off while visiting the park.

See a drive-in movie.  Yep, it’s true, New Braunfels has a drive-in movie theatre.  Here you can pull in, tune in your radio, and enjoy a movie from the comfort of your own car!

Located right off Interstate 35, and a short drive from Austin is the town of Salado. Salado is a charming artistic community nestled near Salado Creek.  This one-of-a-kind Texas Hill Country town has such a unique history and is the perfect place for a day trip.

Loaded with fun bed and breakfasts, restaurants, and loads of artistic charm, Salado will feel make you feel like you are worlds away from the big city. This is one of the easy trips from Austin, Texas.

Things to do in Salado, TX

Check out the historic Stagecoach Inn at this day trip destination.  Even if you don’t spend a night here, it is still a great place to tour and learn about.  The original Inn was built in 1861 and was part of the Chisholm Trail .  You can also eat a meal here in their restaurant!

Check out the local art scene while on your day trip.  Salado prides itself on being an artistic community and this is apparent at every turn.  Why not take time to talk to some local artists and learn about their craft.  One of our favorite spots to do this is at the glass blowing studio in town.

Visit one of the many wineries or breweries during your Austin getaway.

McKinney Falls State Park

One of the shortest and best day trips that you can take from Austin, TX is to the family-friendly state park, McKinney Falls State Park. 

Located just 13 miles from the state’s capital, McKinney Falls State Park will make you feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Here you can camp, hike, fish, picnic, or just enjoy being in the great outdoors.  Of course, you can also cool off from the Texas heat by swimming in Onion Creek during your visit to McKinney Falls.  (Are you sensing a theme here with Austin day trips that have water associated with them in the summer?  LOL!)

You can fish in either Onion or Williamson Creeks and get this, you don’t need a license to fish from the shore in a Texas state park.  BONUS!

Johnson City

Located about an hour west of Austin, Johnson City is a great little day trip from Austin.  Visitors here can immerse themselves in history, art, and Texas wine!

Named after the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson, this small town is home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.  Here you can learn all about LBJ and visit his boyhood home before heading out to his ranch located 14 miles west on Highway (Wine Road) 290. 

When you have had your fill of history, then spend some time exploring the other great things to do here.

This is one of the top Austin day trips for history lovers.

Things to do in Johnson City, TX

Believe it or not, there are actually several things to do in Johnson City, TX.  Here are some of our favorites:

Explore the LBJ Ranch while on your Austin day trip to Johnson City.  This self-guided drive-through tour of the ranch is a wonderful glimpse into history.  During your time here, you can see the ranch home of the former President as well as experience the still working cattle ranch.

Get hands-on at The Science Mill.  Located near the town square, the Science Mill is a great museum that is filled with hands-on exhibits to engage kids and adults in STEM concepts.

Enjoy one of the many restaurants, wineries, and breweries in the area while at this day trip destination.  We love Texas Hills Vineyards, be sure to check out their many award-winning wines!

Plan your Austin day trip from late November to early January to enjoy the Lights Spectacular!

Another one of the best day trips from Austin, TX is to visit the charming town of Driftwood.  In our opinion, Driftwood is the definition of Hill Country town and one of the unique trips from Austin, Texas.

You can enjoy great food, breweries, and wineries while in Driftwood, making it the ideal place to come and unwind a little!

Things to do in Driftwood, TX

For such a small town, there really are so many things to do in Driftwood, Texas!  Check out some of our favorites:

You have to visit Salt Lick BBQ while on your Austin day trip to Driftwood, TX!  Known far and wide for the amazing smoked meats that they produce, Salt Lick is known far and wide for their mouth-watering bbq. Trus us, you won’t be disappointed with a trip to Salt Lick.  Please note that Salt Lick BBQ only accepts cash, so come with some money.

Visit Jester King Brewing.  Known for their great brews and ciders, Jester King is a fun, quirky place to hang out.  They have gorgeous outdoor views and even a goat or two that you can play with!

Visit the wineries .  There are several great wineries in and around Driftwood.  One of our favorites is Duchman Family Winery.  They have great wines, an amazing restaurant, and a beautiful outdoor area!

Learn to dance at Mercer Street Dancehall for a fun day outing!

Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is a fun day trip from Austin for nature lovers paradise.  Here you can camp, fish, take a cave tour, or enjoy hiking and biking trails on over 5,300-acres.

Some of the most popular hikes in the park include Spicewood Springs, Gormon Falls , and the river hike.  Spicewood Springs is a gorgeous trail that takes you along the edge of the water to enjoy the creek, the gorgeous views from the canyon, and the falls that are spread by Spicewood Springs.

If you want to feel like you have truly been transported out of Texas on your Austin day trip, then hit the hiking trails to Gormon Falls.  This 3-mile round trip hike is over rocky terrain and can get really hot in the summer, but the reward when you reach the falls is well worth it.  You will think you are standing in front of a waterfall in the tropics!

You can also go on a caving adventure while in Colorado Bend State Park.  For this outing, a guide will lead you through the caves that are in this area.  This is a fun experience for the adventurous at heart!

Colorado Bend State Park consistently tops our list of the best Austin day trips!

Fredericksburg

The charming German town of Fredericksburg is one of the favorite and best day trips from Austin, TX.  While there are truly so many  things to do in Fredericksburg, TX , it is most popular for its WINE !!

With new wineries popping up daily (it feels like at least), it is hard to keep track of all of the  Fredericksburg, TX wineries !  Don’t worry though, if you aren’t into wine, Fredericksburg also offers a great historic district, fun shopping, and yummy restaurants, making it an easy day trip for everyone!

Things to do in Fredericksburg, TX

Visit the many wineries during your day trip to Fredericksburg, TX.  Just drive down Highway 290 and take your pick, they are everywhere.  Some of our favorites include Becker Vineyards, Grape Creek Vineyards, Fat Ass Ranch, and Fiesta Winery.

Taste all things peach.  Fredericksburg is also famous for the peaches that are grown in this area.  Head to Das Peach House to sample some delicious delicacies created with these yummy peaches.

Learn some history and German heritage while here.  The Fredericksburg Pioneer Museum will allow you to see how the founders of this area lived.  This museum houses 11 historic buildings that guests can tour for a glimpse back in time.  Another great museum to visit is the Pacific War Museum.  Here you can learn all about the Pacific War and Admiral Nimitz, a leader in the battles of WWII, who was from Fredericksburg.

Check out the lavender fields at Becker Vineyards.

Go shopping .  There are so many great little boutique shops to visit in Fredericksburg.  You can spend the day not only exploring the shops on Main Street but also all around the town!

If you are looking for a cute little town to get away to, then why not consider a day trip from Austin to the “ Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas ”?  Well, Georgetown is the place just for that as that is exactly what they are known for.

Lined with cute shops and fun restaurants, the Georgetown Downtown Historic District might be just what you need to fill your day.  If shopping isn’t your thing, don’t worry, there are plenty of outdoor activities in this area as well.

Georgetown is one of the historic trips from Austin, Texas.

Things to do in Georgetown, TX

Spend the day exploring the historic downtown area during your day trip to Georgetown.  Shop at all of the great shops and grab some lunch at the restaurant of your choice.

Explore the Inner Space Caverns.

Cool off in one of the many swimming holes including Blue Hole Park and Lake Georgetown.

Luckenbach may be tiny, but it is definitely one of the most unique little towns in Texas, making it a must on your list of the best day trips from Austin.

Located just outside of Fredericksburg, Luckenbach is a true Texas legend of a town.  Seriously, there is even a Waylon Jennings song written about it!  Here you can grab a cold drink, attend a music concert, and just enjoy a little piece of true Texas history.

Luckenbach is one of the unique Austin, Texas day trips and a great place to check out some live music!

Looking for a day trip from Austin that is all about food? Considered the barbeque capital of Texas , Lockhart will not disappoint if you are looking for some great smoked meat to sink your teeth into!  Sitting between Austin and San Antonio, this small town is big on hospitality.

Here visitors can enjoy some incredible Texas BBQ, take in a little history, and enjoy some quirky fun while visiting.

Things to do in Lockhart, TX

Sink your teeth into some great barbecue.  Of course, there are several places in town to do this, but if this is your first visit to Lockhart, then you have to eat at Kreuz Market.  Kreuz Market has been serving up authentic Texas barbeque since 1900!

Explore some of the unique stores during your day trip to Lockhart.  One particular to note is Manny Gammage’s Texas Hatters. Manny Gammage has been creating hats for celebrities and politicians for years!  I mean they made a hat for Willie Nelson and Ronald Regan, that alone is reason to visit!

Visit Lockhart State Park .  Lockhart State Park is unique in the fact that it has a 9-hole golf course on site.  You can also enjoy picnic areas, hiking, fishing, and swimming on this Austin day trip.

San Antonio

Ok, this day trip isn’t necessarily an escape from the “big city” as San Antonio is a big city also, but it still makes for a great day trip from Austin!

San Antonio is truly unlike any other city in Texas.  Combine the awesome River Walk with the history and charm of all  San Antonio’s Missions  and you have the makings for a great outing. Honestly, there are so many  free things to do in San Antonio  that you could make several day trips here and never spend a dime!

Things to do in San Antonio, TX

Tour the San Antonio Mission Trail and see all of the great missions that helped to build this area of Texas during your San Antonio day trip.  Of course, The Alamo is the most famous, but there are so many other missions in this area that are worth exploring also.

People watch on the San Antonio River Walk.  The River Walk is great for so many reasons (especially the River Walk at Christmas ).  I mean, it is such a cool environment lined with great restaurants and fun shops.  One of our favorite things to do is to grab a balcony seat at one of the many restaurants on the River Walk and watch the people go by below!

Eat some Mexican food!  We love so many restaurants in San Antonio, but one that we visit EVERY time is Nichas.  Located across the street from Mission San Jose, Nichas is authentic Mexican food that is well worth your time.  I recommend the puffy tacos and/or the cheese enchiladas served with their amazing house gravy!

Do some s hopping in Market Square or the Pearl Brewery district before visiting one of the many museums in San Antonio during your Austin, TX day trip!

If you love to be out in nature, then Boerne is a great day trip from Austin for you.  Located just outside of San Antonio, Boerne is a fun little town for those looking to escape city life (even if only for a little while).

There is a little something for everyone when it comes to things to do in Boerne.  You can enjoy shopping, restaurants, live music, nature trails, and caves when you visit this small Texas town!

Things to do in Boerne, TX

Shop on the Hill Country Mile, Boerne’s Main Street.  Here you will find eclectic art galleries, boutique shops, and quaint cafes just waiting to welcome you.

Visit the Cibolo Nature Center while on your day trip to Boerne.  This natural area has picnic areas and trails for you to enjoy and explore.

Enjoy one of the many wineries or breweries in this area. Visit the Cave Without a Name or Cascade Caverns.

Enchanted Rock State Park

Located by Fredericksburg, TX, Enchanted Rock State Park is a great day trip from Austin if you enjoy hiking.

Enchanted Rock is a giant granite dome rock that welcomes hikers to come and explore year-round.  Hiking isn’t the only thing to do at Enchanted Rock though. 

Visitors are welcome to camp, picnic, geocache, and stargaze at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.  It is important that you need to make reservations as Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is very popular and fills up fast!

Guadalupe River State Park

Another popular state park that is on our list of day trips is Guadalupe River State Park.  Guadalupe River State Park is most popular for people who want to spend the day tubing or swimming, but there are many other things to do here also.

Visitors can enjoy the numerous hiking/biking trails, picnic facilities, geocache, and camp within the park.  Of course, the river is still the main draw.  While on the river you can fish, tube, canoe, and swim!

Marble Falls

If you mention Marble Falls while visiting Texas, most people will tell smile big and tell you about the pie shop in town!  And while it is true, the Bluebonnet Cafe is a huge draw for visitors, there are other things to do in Marble Falls as well.

This little Hill Country town offers fun boutique shops, some great galleries, wineries, and of course, the lake!

Things to do in Marble Falls, TX

• Head to the adult playground that is Hidden Falls Adventure Park while in Marble Falls.  This 2700 acre park is a mecca for ATVs, jeeps, and dirt bikes.  Oh, and not to worry if you don’t have one, they will rent you one!
• Eat pie (and whatever else, but definitely pie) at Blue Bonnet Cafe during your day trip to Marble Falls.
• Find a great swimming hole at the lake to cool off from the Texas heat.
• Check out the cute shops and art galleries around Marble Falls.
• If you are here in the spring, enjoy seeing the bluebonnets in Texas !

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Austin

Well, there you have it, our recommendations for great day trips from Austin.  Of course, this list isn’t all-inclusive, but hopefully, we have shown you that there are so many fabulous day trips in the Texas Hill Country. Hopefully, these day trip ideas have inspired you to get out and explore the fabulous small towns surrounding this area of The Lone Star State.

Like this post?  Please Pin It or share to your favorite social media!

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Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight:

We love using CheapOAir, Kayak, and Kiwi to search for the best flight prices. We love using these search engines because they search the web for airlines worldwide to ensure you get the best deal! In addition to flights, you can also find great hotel prices on Kayak and Kiwi.

Book Your Vacation Package:

If you want to book an entire vacation package, we suggest using Expedia. We love how easy Expedia is to use, and we always find good deals on entire vacation packages on their site.

Another great site for vacation packages is BookVIP . BookVIP offers super cheap vacation packages to incredible destinations. You are sure to save money using their site!

For full guided vacations, including hotels, some meals, transportation, and guides, then we book with Trafalgar. Trafalgar is a trusted tour company that will meet all your needs while ensuring a great experience.

Trip.com allows you to book flights, hotels, train tickets, rental cars, airport transfers, tours, and more all on one site. Owned by the parent company that also owns Skyscanner, this is a trusted resource for travel booking and a great “one-stop shop.”

Book Your Accommodations:

We always begin our search by checking out honest reviews on TripAdvisor hotels. This allows us to narrow our search for specific properties once we are ready to book. Of course, you can also book directly on the TripAdvisor site!

There are several accommodation sites that we like to use. One of our favorites is Booking.com because it offers a wide variety of hotels and guesthouses at a good price.

Another “go-to” hotel booking site for us is Hotels.com . We love their loyalty program that allows you to earn free nights, and their “secret prices” for members are fabulous deals!

HotelsCombined is another cool site. They allow you to compare all the top travel sites with one search to ensure you find the best deal out there. Kayak works in this way as well.

If you want a luxurious all-inclusive vacation, consider checking out the Sandals/Beaches properties. Sandals properties are for couples only and Beaches are for families. We have visited Sandals in the past and absolutely love the attention to detail and the service they provide.

Tour Companies We Trust:

We love taking guided tours when visiting new places. Our go-to tour companies are Viator.com and Get Your Guide . Both of these companies have been in business for years and provide excellent customer service. You can trust booking tours from their sites for sure!

For a guided city tour, check out City Sightseeing and BigBus Tours . These bus tours are so much fun and easy to hop on and hop off at top attractions in cities around the world.

CityPass is a great way to save money when visiting large cities. CityPass allows you to get free admission to major attractions once you buy their pass. The savings add up quickly with this pass, often saving 50% with combined admissions.

Another great pass to save money in larger cities is the Sightseeing Pass . This pass allows you to save valuable time and money by combining admissions to major attractions. They also have a handy app that keeps everything you need at your fingertips.

Looking to Save Time and Money?

Check out our resource page for all of our favorite vendors. These companies help us to save time and money on our travels!

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About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through creative content creation and her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel and accompanying social media accounts.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Sunday 6th of September 2020

Just moved to ATX and this was just what I was looking for!

thattexascouple

That's so awesome. I hope you enjoy living in Austin :)

Sunday 19th of July 2020

I love the Enchanted Rock and Fredericksburg area - but you've given me so many more places to check out next time I'm there! Thank you :)

Oh yay! That makes me so happy to hear!

I love Austin and also love finding hidden gems on day trips. Pinning for future reference!

Awesome! Thank you so much!

Saturday 18th of July 2020

I was supposed to come to Texas for the State Fair but sadly with everything going on that won't be possible. Already excited to make plans for next year though and this post is really helpful. Thanks!

I am so sorry to hear that. We love the State Fair. I hope that you get to come after all of this is over.

This is great!!! We aren’t too far in Louisiana and that would be great trips for our family! Thanks!

Oh yay! This would be so much fun for you guys!

The 14 Best Day Trips From Austin, Texas (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for some amazing day trips from Austin, Texas to include in your Texas itinerary? Here are a few of our favorites!

Austin , the capital city of Texas, is home to so many incredible attractions.

This big city is home to an abundance of live music, local shops, world-class museums, delicious eateries, and natural landmarks like Lady Bird Lake.

Downtown Austin can easily entertain travelers for days!

But once you’ve made the most of downtown Austin, consider trying out a few day trips. Austin is surrounded by some real gems, and you can immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and charm of Central Texas on some of these day trips.

From swimming in the stunning Hamilton Pool Preserve to exploring the rich history of New Braunfels or San Antonio, here are some of the best day trips from Austin!

Check out our list of the best things to do in Texas for more inspiration about this amazing state!

Table of Contents

1. Pedernales Falls State Park

2. marble falls, 3. blue hole regional park, 4. johnson city, 5. san antonio, 6. palmetto state park, 7. san marcos, 8. dripping springs, 9. colorado bend state park, 10. round rock, 11. new braunfels, 12. enchanted rock, 13. houston, 14. balcones canyonlands national wildlife refuge, 14 best day trips from austin, texas.

There are so many things to do in downtown Austin, but there is also plenty to do outside the city! These day trips encompass the best parts of the Lone Star State, whether you want to tour a big city, small city, small Texas town, or state park.

All of these are only a short drive from downtown Austin! We recommend renting a car as there aren’t too many guided tours and public transport may be limited.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

• Distance from Austin: 41 miles
• Driving time: 54 minutes

Pedernales Falls State Park is a natural gem located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, approximately 30 miles west of Austin.

This stunning park spans over 5,200 acres and is renowned for its rugged beauty and pristine wilderness.

At the heart of the park is the picturesque Pedernales River, which meanders through limestone canyons, forming captivating waterfalls and cascades.

Visitors flock to the park to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, birdwatching, and camping. The park’s extensive trail system offers something for every level of hiker, from easy strolls to challenging backcountry treks, all of which provide breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding landscapes.

Pedernales Falls State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while showcasing the rugged beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

One of the park’s most iconic features is the Pedernales Falls themselves, a series of limestone terraces and pools where visitors can cool off during the scorching Texas summers.

Whether you’re an avid outdoor adventurer or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Pedernales Falls State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Texas Hill Country!

• Distance from Austin: 48 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour

Marble Falls, Texas, nestled in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, is a charming city known for its stunning natural beauty and welcoming small-town atmosphere.

The city derives its name from the scenic falls on the Colorado River, which used to be adorned with marble-like limestone formations.

While the falls are now submerged beneath Lake Marble Falls, the area remains a popular destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Visitors can indulge in activities like boating, fishing, and swimming in the clear waters of Lake Marble Falls, or explore the nearby Longhorn Cavern State Park , famous for its underground limestone formations and intriguing history.

Marble Falls exudes a distinct Texan charm, with a downtown area filled with quaint local shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Marble Falls also boasts a thriving wine industry, with several wineries and vineyards in the surrounding Hill Country region, offering wine tastings and scenic tours.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, a taste of Texan cuisine, or a dose of local culture, Marble Falls is one of the best day trips from Austin!

• Distance from Austin: 40 miles
• Driving time: 48 minutes

Blue Hole Regional Park , located in Wimberley, Texas, is a hidden gem that makes a beautiful Austin day trip.

This 126-acre park is renowned for its stunning natural swimming hole, which is a crystal-clear, spring-fed pool that beckons visitors with its cool, refreshing waters. The pool is surrounded by towering cypress trees, lush greenery, and limestone bluffs, creating a serene and picturesque oasis.

Blue Hole Park is not just a popular spot for swimming but also for picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching. The park offers well-maintained trails that wind through the scenic landscape, providing opportunities for visitors to explore the beauty of the Hill Country.

Whether you’re taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters, hiking the scenic trails, or simply unwinding in the shade of the giant cypress trees, Blue Hole Park offers a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, making it one of the top day trips from Austin!

Explore more of the state with our 10 Day Texas Road Trip Itinerary !

• Driving time: 55 minutes

Another fun day trip idea in central Texas is Johnson City, a charming and historic small town known for its rich cultural heritage.

The town is best known as the birthplace of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson.

Visitors can explore the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park , which includes the LBJ Ranch, where the former president spent his childhood and later returned during his time in office.

The park offers a glimpse into the life and times of LBJ, with tours of the family home, the Texas White House, and informative exhibits that provide insight into his legacy.

Beyond its historical significance, Johnson City is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. The town’s downtown area features art galleries, boutiques, and local restaurants that showcase the region’s creative spirit and culinary delights.

Johnson City’s small-town charm, historical significance, and proximity to the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country make it a delightful destination for those looking to immerse themselves in both culture and nature.

• Distance from Austin: 80 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Another one of the best day trips from Austin is San Antonio , a city packed with fun things to do!

At the heart of the city lies the historic Alamo Mission, famously known for the 1836 Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution.

San Antonio also boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, including the UNESCO-designated San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, showcasing a series of Spanish colonial missions that played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s history.

The city’s vibrant downtown area is home to the famous San Antonio River Walk, a picturesque network of meandering canals lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.

San Antonio is also celebrated for its diverse and dynamic culture. It’s a city where Texan traditions meet Mexican influences, resulting in a unique culinary scene that showcases Tex-Mex cuisine at its finest. Visitors can savor mouthwatering dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and tamales while enjoying the lively atmosphere of local restaurants.

With its rich history, cultural diversity, and vibrant atmosphere, San Antonio makes an excellent Austin day trip!

• Distance from Austin: 56 miles

Located just an hour’s drive from Austin is Palmetto State Park. This natural oasis is characterized by its lush, subtropical environment and unique blend of ecosystems.

Named after the dwarf palmetto plant that thrives within its boundaries, the park is a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts.

The San Marcos River, which meanders through the park, offers opportunities for swimming, tubing, and fishing, while the park’s diverse flora and fauna provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and hiking.

Visitors can explore a variety of trails that wind through dense forests, wetlands, and picturesque meadows, immersing themselves in the park’s rich biodiversity.

With its serene ambiance, rich natural beauty, and abundant recreational activities, Palmetto State Park is a true gem in the Texas State Park system, offering a tranquil escape for outdoor lovers.

Read next: The 21 Best Things To Do In San Antonio

• Distance from Austin: 31 miles
• Driving time: 35 minutes

San Marcos makes another beautiful day trip from Austin. The San Marcos River, which flows through the heart of the city, is a central attraction.

The crystal-clear waters of the San Marcos River remain a constant 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it a popular spot for tubing, kayaking, and swimming.

The city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident in places like the Spring Lake Natural Area, home to Aquarena Springs, where visitors can learn about the region’s unique aquatic ecosystems.

This is one of the best Austin day trips for those looking to spend some time in the water on a hot summer day!

San Marcos also boasts a historic downtown area filled with charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues, offering a perfect blend of Texas hospitality and college-town vitality.

San Marcos is not only a hub for outdoor enthusiasts but also a cultural center with a rich history. The city’s ties to its past are evident in the historic district, where you can find beautifully preserved buildings, museums, and cultural sites that tell the story of San Marcos’s development.

The music scene is thriving, with live performances happening regularly at local venues and during events like the annual Texas River Festival. There are so many things to do on a day trip to San Marcos!

• Distance from Austin: 23 miles
• Driving time: 30 minutes

Just 30 minutes away from Austin is Dripping Springs, Texas, a picturesque and charming Hill Country town.

Known for its stunning nature, friendly community, and vibrant cultural scene, Dripping Springs has become a sought-after destination for both residents and visitors.

The town’s name originates from the numerous natural springs in the area that gently “drip” clear, cool water from the limestone cliffs, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a must-see on this day trip! Hamilton Pool is a natural swimming hole with a waterfall formed by one of these springs. Its turquoise waters make the perfect escape from the Texas heat.

Dripping Springs also has a thriving arts and music community, with various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Mercer Street, the town’s historic district, is lined with shops, art galleries, and local eateries, making it a hub of creativity and local flavor.

From swimming in Hamilton Pool Preserve to indulging in the local food and culture, Dripping Springs has everything you need for an unforgettable day trip.

• Distance from Austin: 96 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Colorado Bend State Park is a natural wonderland encompassing over 5,000 acres of diverse landscapes, making it a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

At the heart of the park lies the stunning Gorman Falls, a 70-foot spring-fed waterfall cascading down travertine formations, surrounded by lush vegetation.

The park features over 32 miles of scenic trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, including riverbanks, canyons, and caves.

Colorado Bend State Park is a haven for caving enthusiasts, with more than 400 known caves within its boundaries, including the impressive Gorman Cave. Guided cave tours are available for those eager to delve into the underground wonders, offering a unique and educational adventure.

Additionally, the park boasts access to the pristine Colorado River, where visitors can partake in fishing, kayaking, and swimming. No matter which activities you choose, this stunning state park is one of the best Austin day trips!

Find more things to do in Austin with our complete guide !

• Distance from Austin: 18 miles
• Driving time: 25 minutes

Round Rock, Texas, located in the picturesque Williamson County, is a vibrant and thriving city that beautifully blends its rich history with modern amenities and a strong sense of community.

Named after a large round rock in Brushy Creek that served as a natural landmark for early travelers, the city has evolved into a dynamic suburban hub just north of Austin.

Round Rock offers a diverse range of attractions and activities, making it an ideal day trip from Austin.

It boasts a charming downtown area with boutique shops, local breweries and restaurants, and cultural events, providing a small-town feel with all the conveniences of a larger city.

The city also takes pride in its numerous parks and recreational opportunities, including the Rock’N River Water Park and Old Settlers Park , one of the largest municipal parks in Texas.

Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or a welcoming community, Round Rock offers a vibrant and inviting destination in the heart of Central Texas.

Another one of the best day trips from Austin is New Braunfels. Situated along the banks of the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers in the heart of Texas Hill Country, New Braunfels is a historic and charming city with a rich German heritage.

Founded in 1845 by German immigrants, the city has managed to preserve its cultural roots while embracing modernity.

New Braunfels is renowned for its idyllic natural settings, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers.

The Comal River is famous for being one of the shortest navigable rivers in the world and offers excellent tubing opportunities, while the Guadalupe River is known for its stunning beauty and prime conditions for kayaking, fishing, and swimming.

Additionally, the city is home to Landa Park, a 51-acre oasis featuring a spring-fed pool, hiking trails, picnic areas, and even a miniature train that winds through the scenic park.

The Gruene historic district of New Braunfels is lined with picturesque streets and squares, offering a wealth of boutique shops, restaurants serving German cuisine, and live music venues.

The city’s German heritage is celebrated annually with Wurstfest, a lively and colorful ten-day festival showcasing the best in German food, music, and culture.

Moreover, New Braunfels is home to the historic Gruene Hall, one of the oldest continually operating dance halls in Texas, where music lovers can enjoy live performances in a rustic, historic setting.

With its mix of natural beauty, rich history, and lively cultural scene, New Braunfels is a captivating day trip destination!

Check out our list of the 18 Best Places To Visit in Texas for more ideas!

Enchanted Rock, a prominent geological wonder, is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Texas. Situated in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, this massive pink granite dome rises 425 feet above the surrounding landscape, creating a striking and mesmerizing sight.

The name “Enchanted Rock” is rooted in Native American legends and stories that suggest the rock holds mystical and spiritual significance.

Today, it is a cherished destination for hikers, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts. A network of trails leads visitors to the summit, where breathtaking panoramic views of the Hill Country await, especially during sunrise and sunset.

The park surrounding Enchanted Rock offers a wealth of outdoor activities beyond hiking. Rock climbing is a popular pursuit, with numerous routes catering to various skill levels.

Birdwatching is also a favorite pastime, as the park is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it an excellent spot for ornithologists and nature photographers.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area preserves not only the natural beauty of the granite dome but also the rich cultural history of the region, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Nature lovers and history buffs alike will have a blast on this day trip!

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

Houston , Texas, is a bustling and diverse metropolis known for its dynamic blend of culture, commerce, and innovation.

As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston boasts a thriving economy driven by industries such as energy, healthcare, aerospace, and technology.

The Space Center Houston , affiliated with NASA, celebrates the city’s integral role in space exploration, and visitors can explore fascinating exhibits and even see historic spacecraft.

Houston’s cultural scene is as diverse as its population, with an array of museums, theaters, and galleries. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Menil Collection house impressive art collections spanning various periods and styles.

The city’s Theater District, with its numerous venues, offers a wide range of performances, from Broadway shows to ballet and opera. With its thriving economy, rich cultural offerings, and welcoming spirit, Houston stands as a modern and dynamic urban center that makes one of the best Austin day trips!

• Distance from Austin: 39 miles
• Driving time: 46 minutes

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for native wildlife and a haven for nature enthusiasts that makes a fascinating day trip from Austin.

Established in 1992 to protect the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo, this 23,000-acre refuge encompasses rugged limestone canyons, rolling hills, and a diverse range of habitats.

Visitors to the refuge can explore a network of hiking trails and scenic overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the Texas Hill County landscape, as well as opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife photography, and enjoying the serenity of nature.

With its commitment to preserving native ecosystems and the wildlife that depends on them, Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge provides a unique and valuable conservation area in the heart of Texas.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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One Day in Austin Itinerary – Top things to do in Austin, Texas

Austin. A blue dot in a Republican state. It’s the capital of Texas, but people would rather vote a country singer for president than any actual politician. This is where the city motto is literally “Keep Austin weird.” Where there’s a public celebration for Eeyore’s birthday (yes, Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh). Where the entire city mourned when Leslie “The Thong Guy” passed away. (He made his mark by running around town in a leopard thong and high-heeled shoes advocating for tolerance. He ran for mayor 3 times, actually getting 2 nd place.) As you can see, this is a place where everyone is welcome, and the stranger you are the better. Therefore, one day in Austin is bound to be interesting. Here’s what you don’t want to miss!

Plan your trip

1. What’s the best time to visit? 2. A few facts about Austin 3. One day in Austin Itinerary 3.1. Take it easy and grab a cup of coffee first 3.2. Visit the state capitol 3.3. Stroll around the university 3.4. Sit down for a nice Texas lunch 3.5. Head to Town Lake 3.6. See Lake Travis 3.7. Head out to Driftwood 3.8. Have a relaxing evening in a garden 3.9. Explore the nightlife in Austin

4. Where to stay in Austin? 5. Extra tips for visiting Austin

What’s the best time to visit?

There are a few major events in Austin: Austin City Limits, Formula One Race, South by Southwest, and Texas Relays. Unless you’re attending these events, avoid the city completely. This is when Austinites get out of town because the traffic congestion is insane.

While Austin’s weather is wholly unpredictable, the best time to visit is spring and/or fall. Summer is incredibly hot, and if you’re not used to the Texas sun, you may feel like it’s similar to being in a microwave.

However, summer is the time for Blues on the Green , an outdoor free concert series where the entire city comes out for a giant picnic in Zilker Park. And after that, you can catch a free outdoor movie with the summer series Movies in the Park right outside of the symphony center.

The winters are fairly mild, but you’ll subject yourself to dead trees and gray skies. Austin is 100% an outdoors city where most of our cafes, restaurants, bars and shopping malls are, so it is best to come when the weather is nice.

If you’re a football fan, football season is always a good time should you be in town for a Texas Longhorn win.

A few facts about Austin

– The entirety of Eastern Europe can fit inside the state of Texas. It takes 24 hours to drive from the tip of the panhandle to the border of Mexico. The point of telling you this is: you’re going to need a car . The sites of Austin, as with everything in Texas, are spread out. 

– If you insist on not renting a car (since you only have one day after all), it is good to know that Uber and Lyft are once again permitted to operate in Austin after being banned in May 2016. As an Austin-exclusive option, you can download the app RideShareAustin , which subs as our alternative to a ridesharing service.

– The FBI has rated Austin the second-safest major city , so like, if you commit a crime in Austin, you are actually basic. It was rated the #1 place to live in the United States in 2017 by the U.S. News & World Report. In addition to its safety, Austin is a strict no-smoking city, so you may not smoke in any public spaces. Austinites like to breathe fresh air ‘round here.

– On top of all of this, the city is home to a multitude of headquarters such as Whole Foods, IBM, Dell, and many more!

One day in Austin Itinerary

Welcome to Austin, a city that is fascinating in so many ways! Spending one day here is certainly going to be quite an experience, but you will definitely need a good itinerary to get to know this city well. Therefore, here you can find the top things to do and places to see in Austin. Enjoy! 

Go on a tour: Experience Austin like a local with this customized guided tour !

Take it easy and grab a cup of coffee first

Start your morning off with a cup o’ joe at the Blue Dahlia or any other boutique brunch restaurant on 11 th street. These restaurants are transformed into vintage homes and pharmacies. You’ll feel like you’re in a time warp. To make things more homegrown, all of the ingredients are made with local, organic, farm-raised everything, with gluten-free, vegan, GMO-free, and whatever other health nut options are available. (Austin is really into that whole health thing.)

Visit the state capitol

After breakfast, go ahead and check out Texas State Capitol . A replica of Washington’s Capitol, this one is actually slightly bigger. Take that, D.C.! As we said earlier, Austin is this great state’s capital city, which means you can learn a whole lot about its intriguing history here. The capitol building is located in the city center, so you shouldn’t have any problems finding it – its architecture makes it quite prominent (another reason to check it out). Another big plus is that you can get free guided tours when you get there, so if you want to make your one day in Austin educational, this place is a must.

Stroll around the university

To the north of the state capitol, on the grounds of The University of Texas, is Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum . Tickets for this are fairly affordable (no more than 10 dollars), and there really is a lot to see in this presidential library . Johnson was the 36th president of the United States and the one who succeeded JFK. A visit to this place is especially interesting if you know that Johnson was the president during the Vietnam War, plus there are plenty of powerful photos on social justice and civil rights. A special attraction is the replica of the Oval Office , but you can take a look at the president’s limo, too.

Morning is also perfect for experiencing Austin as the locals do. If you want to find out how it would be to live here, this tour will definitely help you with that.

Sit down for a nice Texas lunch

By now, it will likely be time for lunch. Luckily, Austin has a great selection of fine restaurants, so you really don’t have to worry about being hungry. 

Salty Sow is an excellent (and reasonably priced) restaurant where you can enjoy a relaxed setting and try a wide variety of dishes, from braised food to stews. Odd Duck is very popular for several excellent reasons, and among them are their fantastic burgers. Then there’s also Suerte , a fantastic Mexican restaurant, and you can visit Justine’s for some French cuisine.

As you can see, there are plenty of choices here, but feel free to explore a bit – you are bound to find a hidden gem or two.

Head to Town Lake

Should you not have a car, rent a bike at any local bike shop or at the bicycle stands scattered throughout the city. You’re bound to find one around Town Lake .

While you’re at Town Lake, you can go for a lovely walk around the 2, 3, 4 or 8-mile loops around the lake, and then cool off by renting a canoe or paddleboard at one of the many shops along the waterfront. If lakes aren’t your thing, ride your bicycle to Barton Springs , a natural pool famous for topless sunbathing in the ’70s.

See Lake Travis

Who said Texas was flat? You’ll drive through rolling hills of green and look up at the limestone mountains as you make your way to  Lake Travis for the most stunning cliff-side views overlooking the lake. There are also some fascinating mansions around here, but there is plenty to do if you’re looking for a more active way to spend this part of your one day in Austin – you can rent a boat, jet ski, paddleboard, or even go fishing. The choice is yours, so don’t be shy!

Head out to Driftwood

If you do not care about the lake and would rather go see some down-home Texas things, take a drive out to Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood, Texas about 45 minutes away to see cows and an authentic smoke-grill where you can have all-you-can-eat BBQ. If you’re just dying to go to the rodeo, the Austin Rodeo takes place in March and you can plan your trip around that. Otherwise, that is as “Texas” as Austinites get.

Have a relaxing evening in a garden

Should you want some peace and quiet after that, taking a stroll in the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is the way to go. Dedicated to President Lyndon Johnson’s wife, this botanical garden houses loads of native plants and wildlife. It really is a soothing and enjoyable place far enough (but not too far) from the city center. You can learn a lot, enjoy some beautiful sights and let your kids run loose a bit if you have them with you. If not, this can be a very romantic place to visit nevertheless.

As the sun sets, make sure you get to Mount Bonnell to get a 360-degree view of the entire city. This is an absolute must-see and arguably the most famous thing to do in Austin. However, if you’re into bats, you can also get to Congress Bridge and see thousands of bats fly out at dusk.

Explore the nightlife in Austin

For an early night, walk along the bridge to South Congress and check out some live music at Continental Club or salsa the night away at Guero’s Taco Bar.

The most infamous street for nightlife is 6 th street which is split into 3 parts: West 6 th , Dirty 6 th , and East 6 th . East 6 th is where you’ll feel like you’re back in high school crashing someone’s house party and ARRIVE Austin is a great place to stay in this area (check below for more info). You’ll be dancing to the ’90s jams in someone’s living room or converted garage. Walk out to the backyard and chow down on some munchies being served out of a food truck like Chilantros , a Korean-Mexican fusion. Try the kimchi fries, you won’t regret it.

Dirty 6 th  is where all of the under-aged college kids go to party. It’s safe to say they probably have not learned their alcohol limit yet, hence the name “dirty.” From the spilled drinks, to the awful outfits, to the vomit, it is definitely college heaven.

West 6 th is where young professionals go to let loose from a week of work. Bars get creative with free arcade games (Kung Fu), Capri-suns filled with vodka (Greenlight Social), and even a beer stock market (Brew Exchange) where once a beer gets bought too often, the stock crashes and beer drops to $0.

Rainey Street is a neighborhood of day-drinking and brunch, a trailer park of food trucks, and on Sunday’s a live cover band at Icenhauers.

Rock Rose is a street of hookah bars, clubs, and restaurants in the middle of an outdoor shopping mall where people go to party away from the 6 th street crowd.

Where to stay in Austin?

If you only have one day in Austin, choosing the right hotel becomes crucial. You need to plan that part of your trip carefully because it can mean a lot in terms of the time you have to get to know the city. An early flight could mean that you should look for hotels near Austin Bergstrom International Airport . Otherwise, go for something in the city to really feel the vibe. Don’t know where to start looking? Have no fear, here’s our list of hotels suited for every budget.

TIP: Click here to find the best accommodation deals in Austin.

The most “Austin” area to stay in is South Congress . Here you’ll find all the original hotels that celebrate Austin’s quirkiness.

Austin Motel

1220 S Congress Ave, Austin

Austin Motel . Now, this is a real festival of colors right here, with a very pretty seating area outside and a nice pool. But the interior design is what makes this place special, so do check it out. Add to that the really fair prices they have here, and you get a property that’s not just comfortable and pleasant to stay in but also offer excellent value.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Austin Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels

600 West 2nd Street, Austin

If you want five-star accommodation in Austin, Austin Proper Hotel is the place to choose for several reasons. It’s close to the city center, has a beautiful swimming pool, and there’s also an excellent fitness center. The rooms have plenty of amenities, from coffee machines to deposit boxes, and some offer spectacular views of the city. You can even find rooms with balconies here. So, this hotel can certainly cater to any traveler, and its five stars are well deserved.

Hotel San Jose

1316 South Congress Avenue, Austin

Hotel San Jose is another great Austin hotel that will serve you continental breakfast and has an outdoor pool. The location is excellent, away but not too far from the city center. I loved the old-school telephones in the rooms, but the beautiful greenery outside is what catches your eye first! A swimming pool is here, as is a nice bar, and everything comes at a very fair price. Pets are allowed, too!

ARRIVE Austin

1813 East 6th Street, Austin

While it’s not strictly in the city center, ARRIVE Austin more than makes up for that with what it has to offer. A restaurant, a bar, and a wonderful terrace are just a few of the things you get to enjoy, but the rooms are what really puts the place over the top. Very comfortable, spacious, and with plenty of natural light, they guarantee you will always be well-rested and ready for sightseeing. Everyone who stays here has nothing but praise for the hotel – you will, too!

Day trips from Austin

If you have more than one day to spend in Austin, setting up a day trip is always a great idea. There are so many charming and beautiful places around, and you won’t have to drive more than an hour to reach them. So, no matter if you’re looking for a breath of fresh air or a cozy little town where you can completely relax, a day trip from Austin can cover all of that. Here’s a few suggestions!

New Braunfels

New Braunfels is a perfect place if you want to get away from city life a bit. A quiet and charming town, it is located about an hour from Austin and has a pronounced German heritage. Oh, and the oldest bakery in Texas is here, too. The Comal River and the Guadalupe River offer plenty for those who enjoy fishing or just a breath of fresh air, plus there are plenty of interesting shops around. The perfect day trip to recharge your batteries!

Krause Springs

Want to get away from the heat? Go to Krause Springs and you will feel like you’ve entered an oasis! Dozens of springs create swimming pools for everyone to enjoy, and the water is exceptionally cool and crystal-clear wherever you look. On top of that, there is loads of greenery here, so you will have plenty of shade to get away from the scorching sun. You won’t find a better place for a swim in Texas!

Balcones Canyonland National Wildlife Refuge

Animal lovers, this one’s for you! Less than an hour from Austin is a place that is bound to be a memorable day trip for anyone, especially those who like to spend their time outdoors. Hiking trails abound in Balcones, and there is plenty of wildlife to spot during your walks. The area also has observation decks from which you can enjoy fantastic views and romantic sunsets. Lovely!

Georgetown is a very popular destination for day trips from Austin, and it’s only half an hour away! Its town square is stunningly beautiful and full of interesting shops and restaurants. But there are plenty of places for nature lovers here, too – Blue Hole Park and Inner Space Cavern provide plenty of opportunities for exploration, with the former even offering loads of refreshment on hot summer days.

Be sure to check best day trips from Austin article for more ideas if you are planning to stay longer.

Extra tips for visiting Austin

• Be advised, 6th Street has the lowest prices in town when it comes to drinks. So, if you’re looking for a place where you can relax after a long day of sightseeing, this is where you want to head.
• After spending one day in Austin, you’ll either love it or feel lukewarm about it. It’s highly unlikely the city won’t make an impression on you. But there’s no way you won’t feel free. “There’s a freedom you begin to feel the closer you get to Austin, Texas” – Willie Nelson. So enjoy your day of freedom in the Live Music Capital of the world!
• There are plenty of free walking tours around. So, if you want a guide to show you the sights and teach you a little something about the city, this may very well be the best way for that.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Austin itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Kiona from How Not To Travel Like A Basic Bitch is a PhD candidate exploring the world on her school breaks. Her blog concentrates on exploring the life and culture of countries, believing that if more people traveled, the more humans would have mutual respect for each other and a greater appreciation for the things they have at home; making the world more about love and less about hate.

13 comments

Hi Kiona, your blogs are fantastic, well thought and very informative.Congratulation. For sure, you will guide your Tante through Austin in a few months. Looking forward to it. Greetings from Austria.

thanks for this itinerary for Austin! very informative for me..

Liked reading your blog.

Thank you very much!

Will be visiting Austin tomorrow for a day only coming from Houston. This blog comes in handy! Thank you!

We are glad you find it helpful! Let us know if you’ve liked Austin 🙂

Thank you for sharing this itinerary.

Thank you for your comment! 🙂

Beautifully explained and incredible itinerary to Austin!

What’s up, the whole thing is going sound here and ofcourse every oneis sharing facts, that’s genuinely good, keep up writing.

Great guide! I’m planning my trip to Austin and this post is really helpful in deciding what to see and do during my visit. Thanks for sharing!

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• Last Updated On
• September 5, 2023

25 Best Day Trips From Austin — Places Nearby!

Austin dazzles us with its live music and Texas charm. 

But let’s be real, even the coolest cats need to sidestep the buzz now and then. 

As a local in the area, I’ve traveled around Central Texas (there’s much to love beyond the city limits). 

And I’m here to whisper sweet nothings about the best day trips from Austin.

It’s like giving your soul a gentle hug, breezing through the Hill Country, or dipping your toes in a spring-fed river. 

The best part? 

You can saunter back to your cozy Austin abode by sunset, all refreshed and brimming with stories.

So, grab your sunnies and hop in the car because these gems within a few hours’ drive are the Texas-sized antidote to the Austin whirlwind. 

Ready to uncover them? 

Scroll on and discover the top day trip destinations from Austin below.

Best Day Trips From Austin Compared

Ready for an epic adventure? 

Check out our top picks for the best day trips from Austin. 

From scenic hikes to family-friendly attractions, we’ve got you covered.

Editor’s Choice

San Antonio

San Antonio is a big city in Texas and slightly more than an hour’s drive from Austin, so it might not seem too far off from the mood of Austin but can still provide you with an effective and exciting change of scenery.

• Family friendliness: 5/5
• Safety: 4.5/5
• Affordability: 3.5/5
• Accessibility: 4/
• Fun factor: 5/5 

#2nd Best Choice

Culturally, artistically, historically and naturally, this city has plenty to offer in terms of some locations that you can consider visiting.

• Family friendliness: 4.5/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Affordability: 4.5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun factor: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is a 1.5-hour drive from Austin and can present you with some historical wonders in the form of its buildings and attractions.

• Fun factor: 4.5/5

Here are top 25 day trips from Austin.

1. San Antonio (Editor’s Choice)

San Antonio, TX (210) 244-2000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Rich cultural and historical attractions: San Antonio is home to iconic landmarks like the Alamo and the River Walk, which offer a glimpse into Texas’ history and vibrant culture.
• Ample entertainment options: The city boasts numerous amusement parks, making it a great destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.
• Distance: San Antonio is approximately 80 miles away from Austin, so the commute can be a bit lengthy for a day trip, especially if you encounter traffic.
• Crowds: As a popular tourist destination, San Antonio can get quite crowded, especially during peak seasons or holidays.

San Antonio has an electrifying downtown region where you can walk around and experience the local shops, eateries, bars and general atmosphere.

There are many attractions in this city that might be of interest to you, such as the River Walk, Arneson River Theater, Market Square, SeaWorld, Alamo, San Antonio Museum of Art, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, San Antonio Botanical Garden, ArtPace and others.

You can also simply visit this city for one of its special events.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk

Also See: Day Trips From Houston Best Day Trips From Dallas

Waco, TX (254) 750-5810 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Magnolia Market at the Silos: Waco gained fame as the home of Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of the HGTV show “Fixer Upper.” 
• Waco Mammoth National Monument: Nature lovers can visit this unique site, where paleontologists have uncovered well-preserved fossils of Columbian mammoths.
• Limited attractions: Compared to larger cities like San Antonio or Austin, Waco may have fewer overall attractions to explore.
• Distance: While Waco is closer to Austin than San Antonio, it’s still about 100 miles away.

Examples of such places include the Armstrong Browning Library, Waco Mammoth National Monument, Cameron Park Zoo, Lake Waco, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Mayborn Museum Complex, Hawaiian Falls, Magnolia Market and Waco Suspension Bridge.

After visiting one or more of these places, if you need some rest and refreshment, you can make your way to Downtown Waco where there is a flurry of food trucks, restaurants and lovely shops.

Recommended Hotel: Pivovar Hotel

Related: Weekend Trips From Oklahoma City

3. Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg, TX (830) 997-6523 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• German heritage and charm: Fredericksburg offers visitors a unique experience with its German-style architecture, cuisine, and numerous wineries and breweries.
• Beautiful scenery: The Texas Hill Country surrounding Fredericksburg is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, vineyards, and wildflowers.
• Limited non-German attractions: If you’re not particularly interested in German culture, you may find the attractions somewhat limited compared to other destinations.
• Tourist popularity: Fredericksburg’s charm and natural beauty attract many tourists, especially during peak seasons and festivals.

For an all-absorbing taste of the city, you can take a walk down the Fredericksburg Historic District and its downtown district, where you can not only admire the architecture but also enjoy some meals and beverages.

Furthermore, Fredericksburg is home to several wineries where you can pay a visit and sip on some local wine.

If you are interested in some sightseeing, you can consider visiting places like Crosswind Aviation, Fort Martin Scott Historic Site, Fredericksburg’s Pioneer Museum, National Museum of the Pacific War and Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.

Recommended Hotel: Fredericksburg Inn and Suites

Also See: Day Trips Around San Antonio Day Trips From Fort Worth, TX Best Day Trips From El Paso

4. Lockhart State Park

2012 State Park Rd Lockhart, TX 78644 (512) 398-3479 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Austin trips down to Lockhart State Park only require you to drive for 40 minutes to find yourself surrounded by nature while still being at an accessible enough distance from the city.

This state park highlights and revolves around Clear Fork Creek which can provide you with several fun pursuits to undertake, such as fishing.

The park also includes a pool where you can swim, splash and float around.

Hiking and biking trails, a quaint dam-formed waterfall, a nine-hole golf course and a campsite are some additional facilities you can enjoy here.

You can also choose to explore the surrounding city of Lockhart, especially if you would like some barbeque.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Lockhart Hotel & Suites

5. Kerrville

Kerrville, TX (830) 257-8000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Kerr County in Texas houses the city of Kerrville, which can take you less than two hours to make the journey from Austin.

There are some lovely and scenic parks situated in this city where you might like to stop by and undertake some recreation, especially on the Guadalupe River.

Some of these parks include the Kerrville-Schreiner Park, Carver Park, and Lehmann & Monroe Park.

There are several other cultural attractions that you can look at here, including the Museum of Western Art, Sculpture Prayer Garden, Duncan-McAshan Visual Arts Center, Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, Stonehenge II and more.

Kerrville tends to host festivals often too, relating to the themes of folklife, food, drinks, art, culture, crafts, markets, stalls and others.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Kerrville

Related: Activities in Austin

6. La Grange

La Grange, TX (979) 968-5756 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You need only drive for an hour from Austin to make your way to the small and delightful City of La Grange in Texas.

With a small population, this city can offer a calm pace of life that you can enjoy, even if it is only for your day away from Austin.

There are some places here that you might find appealing, such as the Monument Hill and Kreische Brewery State Historic Sites, Texas Heroes Museum, Texas Quilt Museum and Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center, among others.

Many wineries and farms are present in and around this city which can make for refreshing and jovial visits.

Recommended Hotel: The Oak Motel

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Austin

7. Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

24518 Ranch Rd 1431 Marble Falls, TX 78654 (512) 339-9432 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is home to several forms of wildlife, including plants, animals and birds.

This wildlife refuge is a 45-minute drive from Austin and can take you from the crowd of the city to the solitude of nature while also giving you the chance to see some rare and endangered birds, such as the black-capped vireo and golden-cheeked warbler.

There are nearly 2,100 miles of trails in this refuge where you can hike around while also experiencing some art and culture.

Other activities here involve painting, birding, archery, hunting (restricted), running, photography and picnicking.

You can also come here to watch the birds migrating or leaving this refuge.

Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Austin

8. Lost Maples State Natural Area

37221 RM 187 Vanderpool, TX 78885 (830) 966-3413 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you want to make some Austin day trips, visit the Lost Maples State Natural Area that can take you a little over 2.5 hours from Austin.

This natural area spans slightly more than 2,900 acres and is full of gorgeous sights and landscapes, such as canyons, hills, forests, creeks and rock formations made from limestone.

You might also be able to spot diverse kinds of flora and fauna in this region, with options to take trails or access observation points to view them better.

There are many other options for leisure and recreation here, such as stargazing, fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking, fishing and picnicking.

Recommended Hotel: The Historic Leakey Inn

9. Pedernales Falls State Park

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

Taking you around 50-55 minutes to drive up here from Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park ranges across 5,200 acres and rests along the Pedernales River.

The Pedernales River is where you can find all the fun and excitement in this state park, since you can carry out activities like fishing, swimming, tubing, floating, canoeing, paddling, kayaking or simply lounging nearby.

You can also opt for one of the sprawling trails where you can hike or bike your way through the park.

There are several trails wherein you can ride horses and enjoy views of and beyond the park.

You can also observe some wildlife here depending on the season and their proximity.

Recommended Hotel: Johnson City River Retreat

Related: Beaches Near Austin

10. Georgetown

Georgetown, TX (512) 930-3652 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Georgetown is half an hour away from Austin, allowing you to make a quick journey to and fro along with sufficient time to explore this city.

Georgetown can particularly be of interest to lovers of history and historic architecture, especially that of the Victorian style and age.

Georgetown is home to the Williamson County Courthouse Historical District along with many other neighborhoods if you simply wish to take a pleasant walk down the streets.

You can also visit this town in spring for the Georgetown Red Poppy Festival, although there are many other events and festivals held throughout the year too.

These include Fiesta Georgetown, Blazin’ Beer Crawl and Georgetown Swirl, among others.

Recommended Hotel: Sheraton Austin Georgetown Hotel & Conference Center

11. Colorado Bend State Park

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

Colorado Bend State Park in Hill Country in Texas is less than a two-hour car journey from Austin.

This state park has many unique rock formations, mostly seen inside the wild caves here, including karst features, stalactites, stalagmites, falls and more.

There are several tours that can take you through these wild caves, although you can also enjoy other elements of this state park.

For instance, Gorman Creek, Gorman Spring and Gorman Falls can provide a refreshing and serene sight while also presenting many hiking and picnicking opportunities around them.

Many campsites are present here and ranger programs take place here too.

Some parts of the creek might also occasionally be open to fishing.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn & Suites

Shiner, TX (361) 594-3362 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Want to experience a memorable one day trip from Austin?

Shiner can be another one of those charming urban places to visit near Austin, situated at a 1.5-hour driving distance from the capital.

Shiner was historically rich and buzzing, with several remnants of this past visible for you to witness and explore here, especially in the form of its architecture.

Some points of interest in Shiner are the Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, The Spoetzl Brewery, Gaslight Theater, Welhausen Park, Green-Dickson Municipal Park, Cigar Factory & Green Cabin Museums and Edwin Wolters Memorial Museum.

There are many quaint art shops and galleries, along with some antique stores located in this town that might interest you.

The beer here is worth trying too.

Recommended Hotel: Black Gold Inn

13. Round Rock

Round Rock, TX (512) 218-7023 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Only requiring a 20-minute car drive from Austin, Round Rock can be an excellent place to visit on a day off.

There are many restaurants, bars and eateries that you can visit here for a taste of the multitudes of this small city.

Sporting events and games take place often here in case you want to visit specifically for these.

Local attractions can offer some great options too, such as the Altitude Trampoline Park, Brushy Creek Crossing, Centennial Plaza, Chisholm Trail Area, Clay Madsen Recreation Center and Downtown Historic District.

If you are interested in the cultural events, festivals and performances here, you can also figure out what’s happening on a particular day and drive down to this city for it.

Recommended Hotel: Austin Marriott North

Related: Fun Weekend Getaways in Texas

14. Krause Springs

424 Co Rd 404 Spicewood, TX 78669 (401) 236-7554 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Another 45-minute drive from Austin, Krause Springs can provide you with an interesting and revitalizing getaway from Austin.

This natural property spans around 115 acres and features a large pool that is mainly formed as a result of the water from the numerous springs in this area.

There are a total of 32 springs within this region, offering some fresh water and opportunities for activities like swimming, fishing and kayaking, although you will need to arrange for the equipment for these yourself.

You can also stroll or bike around the area while also having the option to stay overnight in a tent.

You can also host a private event here.

Recommended Hotel: Coventry Casa

15. New Braunfels

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

New Braunfels is another city in Texas that is only a 45-minute drive from Austin.

Particularly known for its eclectic and eccentric events, New Braunfels can be quite a delight to visit if you take note of some of these festivals beforehand.

For instance, some of these festivities that might rouse your interest include Wurstfest, Folkfest, Troutfest and many other concerts, live music sessions, food festivals, markets, fairs, plays and pop-ups.

Make sure you visit Downtown New Braunfels and Gruene Historic District while you are here alongside other attractions like the Gruene Hall, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture, Historic Outdoor Art Museum and several others.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village

16. San Marcos

San Marcos, TX (512) 393-5930 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

San Marcos is a city in Texas that is only a 35-minute drive from Austin, offering an accessible and splendid location for your day away.

There are several recreational activities in store for you here, such as paddling and tubing on the San Marcos River, along with options like fishing, hiking, biking and birding in the Rio Vista Park and Purgatory Creek Natural Area.

For sightseeing options, you can consider visiting the Commemorative Air Force Exhibit, LBJ Museum of San Marcos, Mermaid March, The Meadows Center Glass Bottom Boat Tours, San Marcos Art Center, The Center for Texas Music History, Charles S. Cock House Museum and Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park.

Recommended Hotel: Wingate by Wyndham San Marcos

17. Inks Lake State Park

3630 Park Rd 4 W Burnet, TX 78611 (512) 793-2223 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Inks Lake State Park, roughly over an hour’s drive from Austin, can present plenty of things to do outside Austin that you can take advantage of on your day out.

If you and your family or friends enjoy being outdoors and participating in some adventures, then this state park can be an ideal option for you.

Some regional adventures that you can look forward to in this state park are diving, fishing, angling, swimming, camping, boating, biking, hiking and picnicking.

The Inks Lake is a crucial part of this state park and also includes one of its elements named Devil’s Waterhole, where you can go on canoe rides.

There are many rock formations of diverse kinds and shapes that can make for some unique sights.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn & Suites Burnet

18. Longhorn Cavern State Park

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

A car journey spanning an hour and 15 minutes from Austin, Longhorn Cavern State Park is a National Natural Landmark featuring Longhorn Cavern as the main attraction here.

Longhorn Cavern is a limestone cave that was formed as a result of the geological actions of a river that flowed through the region.

A result of this, along with the evolution of the region over the years, led to many fascinating rock structures in the cavern that you can now explore and learn about through guided tours of the cave.

You will need to book individual or group tours in advance to enjoy this cave to its fullest extent.

There are many trails and fields in this state park too.

Recommended Hotel: Hidden Falls Inn

19. Bryan-College Station

College Station-Bryan, TX (979) 764-2625 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Taking up to two hours for you to drive from Austin to Bryan-College Station, this region in Texas can be entertaining to visit, especially if there is an event or festival taking place here.

Home to Texas A&M University, the twin cities of College Station and Bryan always have something going on hosted by the students or the college administration.

Sporting events of the Aggies are also worth checking out here, not to mention that several other fairs, street festivals, parades and performances are often held here.

Some attractions here can offer some additional fun too, such as the arcades, rock climbing locations, wineries, vineyards, restaurants, breweries and many other gaming sites.

Recommended Hotel: Sleep Inn & Suites – Bryan

20. Wimberley

Wimberley, TX (512) 847-0025 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

A sweet little village in Texas, Wimberley is ideal for a one-day trip from Austin.

What was once home to a trading post, Wimberley is now a small region nestled in the midst of nature that you can enjoy at your own pace.

Some local sites that preserve the past continue to exist here in the form of historic buildings and architecture in case you want to take a pleasant stroll around this village.

There are several wineries and vineyards in and around this village too where you can make a quick stop for a taste of the local wine and a delicious meal.

You can also visit Jacob Well’s Natural Area while you are here.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Club Vacations Hill Country Resort at Canyon Lake

21. Marble Falls

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

Marble Falls can make for a perfect getaway in Texas, especially since it is only an hour’s drive from Austin.

Particularly reputed for its wineries and vineyards, Marble Falls can provide you with some fantastic and tranquil locations where you can take some walks and sip on some wine.

Downtown Marble Falls can offer some additional buzz and excitement, allowing you to savor the atmosphere of this city.

Lake Marble Falls is also accessible here and can provide you with a plethora of water activities like diving, swimming, canoeing, fishing, jet skiing, and lots more.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Marble Falls

22. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

16710 Ranch Rd 965 Fredericksburg, TX 78624 (830) 685-3636 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is roughly a two-hour car drive from the city of Austin.

Centered around Enchanted Rock (a pink granite mountain), this natural area can give you access to miles of trails where you can hike, bike or ride horses.

There are several other outdoor adventures you might enjoy carrying out here, such as rock climbing, exploring caves, viewing art exhibits, viewing wildlife and many more.

Once you reach the top of Enchanted Rock, you will be presented with stunning views of the surrounding natural landscapes as well as some nearby cities.

This can be a great picnic spot too.

Recommended Hotel: Contigo Ranch

23. Palmetto State Park

78 Park Rd 11 S Gonzales, TX 78629 (830) 672-3266 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Palmetto State Park in Texas can give you access to one of the most scenic places near Austin.

Located about an hour’s car journey from Austin, this state park is full of dwarf palmetto trees and various other kinds of flora and fauna that you might be able to view and observe.

Additionally, this state park includes a part of the San Marcos River and an oxbow lake where you might be able to carry out some water recreation.

The open meadows and splendid views of the surrounding hills can additionally make for a wonderful picnic spot.

Trails can allow you to take hikes here too.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Gonzales TX

24. Dripping Springs

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

Dripping Springs is only 30 minutes away from downtown Austin, allowing you to make a quick journey to and from this city.

This rural area can offer a nice change from Austin, along with some entertainment and excitement if you happen to visit for one of its events.

Some festivals and events that take place here include the Dripping Springs Pumpkin Festival, concerts, farmers’ markets, food festivals and Dripping Springs Brewers Festival.

While you are here, consider visiting Reimer’s Ranch Park, Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, Dripping Springs Ranch Park, Sports and Recreation Garden, Sculpture Garden and Hamilton Pool Preserve.

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

25. Johnson City

Johnson City, TX (830) 868-7111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The car drive from Austin to Johnson City can take around an hour and ten minutes.

There are several historical locations here alongside places of cultural and natural interest, including the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, Bamberger Ranch Preserve, Johnson City Science Museum, McCarty Spring and JL Haynes Gallery.

The Pedernales River is also located nearby, offering some adventurous opportunities on and around it, such as hiking, boating, swimming, fishing, wading, tubing, biking, picnicking and wildlife viewing.

The wineries and breweries here are worth visiting too, as are some of the events and market days that are commonly held in this city.

Hopefully, this list of the best day trips from Austin was enough to provide you with some ideas and inspiration.

The next time you have a day off, simply set out in your car with your family and friends and take a breather from the big city.

Recommended Hotel: Eichen Haus

Day Trip Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Let me spill the tea on these day trips. 

San Antonio had my heart humming. 

The River Walk? 

Just magical, like walking through a fairy tale. 

Then, Waco. 

Between the Magnolia Market’s rustic charm and the divine cupcakes, it was a daydream. 

But Fredericksburg? 

That’s the secret sauce. 

Imagine sipping wine at the vineyards, feeling a bit Euro-chic right in Texas. 

Still, San Antonio holds a special place in my heart – it’s got a warming embrace that’s hard to resist. 

So if you’re picking only one, let your heart guide you. 

Mine is singing a San Antonio tune, but all three are ripe for memory-making.

How I Picked The Destinations

Curating the perfect day trip destinations requires a blend of personal experience, meticulous research, and insightful conversations with locals and fellow travelers. 

As a resident of Texas, I’ve personally visited these remarkable places, allowing me to provide you with authentic recommendations. 

I’ve also delved into extensive research and factored in key aspects like family friendliness, safety, affordability, accessibility, and the overall fun factor. 

So, rest assured, these handpicked destinations are designed to make your family adventures truly unforgettable.

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

• Family friendliness: This criterion assesses the family-friendly appeal of every destination. Does it offer attractions suited for the whole family? Does it have facilities and services that entertain and engage all age groups? I use these questions to evaluate family friendliness. 
• Safety: I use this to evaluate safety and security. Does the area have a low crime rate? Is public transportation secure? Are local authorities reliable and helpful? I ask myself these questions when evaluating safety. 
• Affordability: This is used to assess affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it cheaper compared to the other options? I consider these factors when rating affordability. I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This criterion evaluates the accessibility of every location. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? How walkable is the area? How far is it from the base? These are the questions I ask myself when assessing accessibility. 
• Fun factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the day trip is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Does it offer attractions that promise fun experiences for the whole family? Are there theme parks, beaches, and hiking trails? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What cities are an hour from austin.

San Marcos is approximately an hour from Austin. Known for its vibrant arts scene and picturesque river, it offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and cultural exploration. Georgetown, another city just an hour away, charms visitors with its historic downtown, charming boutiques, and beautiful parks, making it a delightful destination for a day trip from Austin.

How Many Days Is Enough For Austin, Texas?

The ideal duration for a visit to Austin, Texas, is typically around 3-4 days. This allows you to experience the city’s vibrant music scene, explore its rich cultural attractions such as the State Capitol and museums, indulge in its renowned food and drink scene, and even take a day trip to nearby attractions like the Hill Country or San Antonio.

What Towns To Visit Between San Antonio And Austin?

New Braunfels and San Marcos are two towns worth visiting between San Antonio and Austin. New Braunfels offers a charming German heritage with attractions like the Schlitterbahn Waterpark and the Gruene Historic District. San Marcos is known for its natural beauty, with opportunities for tubing on the San Marcos River and exploring the vibrant downtown area.

Conclusion 

I discovered a trove of day trip gems right beyond Austin’s borders. 

From the rustic charm of Waco’s Magnolia Market to Fredericksburg’s German-inspired elegance, each offered a unique twist. 

But San Antonio was my golden ticket. 

Its rich history, cultural allure, and amusement parks struck a chord that echoed louder than any other destination. 

The trip or commute might be a stretch, but the rewards are boundless, making San Antonio our top choice for the best day trips from Austin. 

Remember, every journey is a treasury of stories – choose your tale and let it unfold.

12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Austin, TX

Written by Brad Lane Updated Mar 8, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Brad Lane has enjoyed a few reporting trips to Texas for PlanetWare and always bases his travels out of Austin.

Austin has it all. That doesn't mean it's not fun to get away every now and then. Part of the appeal of the capital city is its proximity to many other beautiful places to visit. Perhaps most notable is the Texas Hill Country, easily accessible from Austin, and many other day trip destinations where you can enjoy the rolling scenery and rich German heritage.

Many of the best day trips from Austin also lend access to nearby outdoor attractions. Hiking trails at Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs or Pedernales Falls in Johnson City , are worth the short drives all on their own. And, thanks to Austin's winter-less climate, these outdoor destinations are hot spots throughout the year.

For another big city to explore outside of Austin, San Antonio is an 80-mile drive. Close enough to cover in a day, a few top attractions in San Antonio include the San Antonio Riverwalk and The Alamo.

Plan your sightseeing adventures with our list of the best day trips from Austin.

1. New Braunfels

2. georgetown, 3. fredericksburg, 4. san antonio, 5. hamilton pool preserve, dripping springs, 6. palmetto state park, 7. inks lake state park, 8. wimberley, 9. johnson city, 10. la grange, 11. round rock, 12. colorado bend state park.

New Braunfels is approximately an hour southwest of Austin in the Texas Hill Country , and a top spot to get away from the city. The town retains its German heritage, dating to its founding in 1845, with cultural celebrations and authentic storefronts. And, exploring this culture is easy on the pedestrian-friendly, shaded sidewalks of the central business district.

The stunning Texas Hill Country surrounding New Braunfels also offers several ways to get outside. Visitors have easy access to the Comal River , which runs through the city, as well as the Guadalupe River nearby. Tubing, fishing, and wandering the banks are popular ways to spend the day.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark offers another popular aquatic attraction in New Braunfels. This massive water park features sections fueled by the spring-fed water of the Comal River nearby.

For an authentic taste of New Braunfels, Naegelin's Bakery , in the heart of the city, is the oldest bakery in Texas. Naegelin's features traditional fares and German-inspired items like pretzels and strudels. Further north, The Gruene Historic District in New Braunfels is the place to head for artisan crafts and antiques.

The charming city of Georgetown is 30-minutes north of Austin and home to one of the most beautiful town squares in Texas. Local shops and restaurants comprise the historic facades of downtown Georgetown and sell everything from baked goods to antique collectibles.

This picture-perfect town square hosts several cultural events, including First Fridays in Downtown . These community block parties include the entire district enjoying art shows and the beautiful weather outside.

Surrounded by the beautiful Texas Hill Country , Georgetown is also a gateway to exploring outdoors. Blue Hole Park is one of the most popular places to visit on summer days in Georgetown. This lagoon and public space is five blocks north of the historic district and features swimming areas and waterfalls.

Another popular natural feature in Georgetown is one of the best caverns in Texas . The Texas Highway Department discovered Inner Space Cavern while constructing Interstate 35 in 1963. The cave has provided guided tours nearly ever since. These underground tours don't involve any crawling and take place on gravel walkways through lighted passageways.

The German village of Fredericksburg offers some of the best scenery the Texas Hill County has to offer, less than two hours west of Austin. This photogenic small town displays its German heritage on the streets. It's a lovely spot to walk through on a sunny day, and this part of Texas receives over 300 days of sunshine every year.

Local shops and restaurants line Main Street in Fredericksburg, as well as colorful storefronts that ring with history. Walking this Main Street corridor is often a memorable part of any Fredericksburg visit.

Off Main Street, the National Museum of the Pacific War features artifacts, exhibits, and airplanes dedicated to the Asia- Pacific War.

One of the best ways to get outside in Fredericksburg is by visiting the nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area . Visitors see the massive pink dome from miles on the horizon, and it's less than a 30-minute drive from Fredericksburg to reach the monolith. Enchanted Rock is one of the best state parks in Texas and features campgrounds and a summit hiking trail, and is worth a day trip on its own.

San Antonio , the second largest city in Texas, beckons for day trips from Austin. About a 1.5-hour drive away, its vibrant streets are fun to explore and full of things to do.

The centerpiece of many visits is the San Antonio Riverwalk , featuring stone walkways and many restaurants on the water. Visitors can hop on a boat and tour the San Antonio River to take in this cultural epicenter of the city.

The Alamo is also nearby for those interested in the history of the city. And spread throughout the urban environment are other significant cultural landmarks, including San Antonio Missions National Historical Park . The San Fernando Cathedral , in the heart of the city, also entices some historical intrigue.

Art and culture are vibrant in San Antonio. The Pearl District offers perhaps the most concentrated taste of this creativity. With several historic buildings, the trendy Pearl District neighborhood is also known for some of the best restaurants in the city.

Where to Stay: San Antonio offers several places to stay for weekend visits, with some of the most luxurious options close to the Riverwalk.

Hamilton Pool offers one of the coolest places to visit for a day trip from Austin. This coveted grotto is home to one of the best waterfalls in Texas and a great swimming hole to beat the summer heat. Hamilton Creek cascades into a narrow canyon to create this Texas Hill Country attraction. Visitors from Austin can reach the preserve within a 45-minute drive.

Thanks to its photogenic charm and surreal nature, Hamilton Pool is a very popular hiking destination near Austin , especially on the weekends. The preserve requires guests to make reservations before visiting to prevent overcrowding. Only one vehicle is allowed per reservation, and reservations are available for morning and afternoon time slots.

Hamilton Pool Preserve and the surrounding grotto are well worth the day trip on their own. The encompassing town of Dripping Springs , however, gives even more reason to visit. Live music is easy to find in Dripping Springs on the weekends, and several unique eateries and local shops line the historic city streets.

For a refreshing escape into a tropical landscape, the uniquely forested acres of Palmetto State Park are an hour's drive southeast of Austin. Dwarf palmetto plants give this state park its name and vibrant atmosphere, and it's the San Marcos River that allows such abundant growth. Swiftly moving throughout the heart of the park, the San Marcos River is also the reason for many day trips.

Visitors swim and fish in the San Marcos River within the park, and canoeing and tubing are just as popular. The state park also rents stand up paddleboards and tandem kayaks. The park is also home to an oxbow lake that features a fishing pier. For land-based things to do, hiking trails like the Palmetto Interpretive Trail offer the best view of the park's namesake flora.

Palmetto State Park does offer campgrounds for those interested in spending the night. Otherwise, the natural landscape is only an hour outside of the city , which makes for easy day trips. The park also offers daily bike rentals for children and adults.

Address: 78 Park Road 11 S, Gonzales, Texas

Read More: Best State Parks in Texas

Several great state parks are accessible for day trips from Austin. Approximately 50 miles northwest of downtown, Inks Lake State Park is one such popular day-use and overnight destination.

The 830-acre lake is a reservoir on the Colorado River and part of the Central Texas Highland Lakes that stretch towards Austin. In downtown Austin, Lady Bird Lake is also one of these Highland Lakes on the Colorado River.

The state park is one of the best lakes in Texas and is popular with boating, fishing, and water skiing. The state park features two fishing piers, fish cleaning stations, and gear to borrow. Surrounding the shores are hiking trails and over 200 campsites to spend the night. The 1.8-mile Pecan Flats Trail provides the best views within the park.

The nearby Longhorn Cavern State Park offers another reason to visit the region. Developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, Longhorn Cavern remains today a popular cave to explore . The park offers guided tours every day of the week, which is the only way to see the inside of the cave.

Wimberley is a quaint city in the Texas Hill Country, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and inviting bodies of water. The city has everything for a perfect Austin day trip. Local places to eat and colorful storefronts inhabit Wimberley Square , the main thoroughfare of the town. Modern ranch décor, first-class cookware, and chic boutiques line this charming shopping district.

Wimberley's Market Days offer an excellent reason to visit on Saturdays between March and December. Featuring over 475 booths, Market Days is the largest open-air market in Texas . Fares for sale range from local produce to artisan crafts and include pet items, yard art, and holistic remedies. Market Days is as much a cultural celebration as it is a shopping experience often accompanied by various live music performances.

The great outdoors is also accessible in Wimberley. One of the most popular spots to go is Blue Hole Regional Park on the outskirts of the city (not to be confused with Blue Hole Park in Georgetown). This eye-catching natural space features a spring-fed swimming pool shaded by giant cypress trees. The park also features campgrounds and 3.5-miles of hiking trails.

Johnson City, an hour west of Austin in the Texas Hill Country, is best known as the birthplace of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon Baines Johnson. Johnson city is also the final resting place of the former president. Visitors explore this legacy and more with a mix of state and national parks in Johnson City.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Park is home to Johnson's birthplace; his boyhood home; and the LBJ Ranch, including the " Texas White House ." The Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site shares the same space with the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm . It's not all LBJ in Johnson City, however — the charming community is also lined with art and opportunity to explore outdoors.

Pedernales Falls is just outside Johnson City and on the way from Austin. Pedernales Falls State Park encompasses this series of limestone waterfalls, which features hiking trails, campgrounds, and swimming spots. To fuel up after an adventure in Johnson City, Main Street , also known as Highway 290, has a selection of community flavors, including local restaurants.

La Grange offers a slice of small-town paradise an hour east of Austin. Nestled in the foothills of Hill Country, this quaint and somewhat infamous town is also adjacent to the Colorado River . La Grange has received notoriety in the past from music legends like Dolly Parton and ZZ Top. It remains popular today as a day trip from both Austin and Houston.

Upon arrival, this small Texas town feels like it's hundreds of miles away from any big city. The Colorado River offers the central source of recreation in La Grange. It's the same river that passes through Austin but with noticeably fewer crowds.

Another popular way to spend time outside in La Grange is walking up Monument Hill . This state historic site commemorates long-lost Texans and offers a great view of the Colorado River. Monument Hill puts on a particularly good show during sunset.

The centerpiece architectural attraction in downtown La Grange is the Fayette County Courthouse . This stately and century-old building has several local eateries within walking distance. Art galleries that tend to catch the eye are also in proximity to the county courthouse. For those interested in spinning a yarn, the Texas Quilt Museum is kitty-corner to the courthouse.

Round Rock is a quickly growing community just north of Austin, reachable from downtown with a 25-minute drive. Several large employers have attracted families to the area, resulting in many family-friendly tourist attractions. The city also earns its nickname as the Sports Capital of Texas , hosting some of the country's largest youth and recreation sports tournaments.

Visitors often encounter Round Rock by attending one of these sporting events, such as a baseball game at Dell Diamond — home to the Texas Rangers AAA affiliate, the Round Rock Express . But it's usually the city's other things to do that lead to repeat visits.

Old Settlers Park and a charming downtown district lined with local shops comprise some of the other attractions in Round Rock. Round Rock is also home to one of the largest indoor water parks at Kalahari Resorts . This massive indoor water park encompasses over 200,000 square feet of aquatic fun.

Colorado Bend State Park is an adventure-filled state park accessible with less than a two-hour drive north of Austin. It encompasses over 5,000 acres and offers varied landscapes to explore. Perhaps most notable is the six miles of the Colorado River Shoreline, including more than one gorgeous waterfall.

Trail exploring is popular at Colorado Bend and is worth the two-hour drive. Hikers, mountain bikers, and horse riders all find their own trails. The Gorman Falls Hike is undoubtedly the most popular in the park, achievable with a three-mile round trip.

Colorado Bend State Park is also one of the best places to go camping in Texas , and if you're up for subterranean exploration, be sure to tour its popular caverns.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Austin : Before taking too many day trips, check out our visitor's guide to downtown Austin for all the entertainment and attractions within the city . For outdoor lovers who want to take advantage of the beautiful Texas weather, the best hikes in Austin feature easy escapes from the city.

Camping in Texas: The state of Texas encompasses many unique landscapes. Sometimes the best way to see them is to set up on location. For a place to pitch a tent beneath the stars, or park an RV next to a river, our guide to the top places to camp in Texas will send you in the right direction.

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12 Fantastic Day Trips from Austin

Austin is fun, but it’s also small, with just a few days’ worth of attractions to keep travelers busy. Most come for a weekend to explore the beer, music, and food scene while taking in a few of the lake activities. 

While those are all fun things to do in Austin , there are also a lot of awesome day trips from the city that people miss out on. Within a couple of hours’ drive of Austin you have historic towns, state parks, beautiful waterfalls, tons of BBQ joints, and Texas’s famous wine country! 

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During my eight years living in Austin , I had the chance to explore the area a lot. While here, definitely rent a car and get out of the city to see the countryside. 

Here’s my list of best day trips from Austin:

1. Fredericksburg

Located just 90 minutes west of Austin, this is the heart of wine country in Texas, with over 50 wineries in the area. German settlers founded the town in the 1800s, and to this day it is where you’ll find one of the state’s largest German populations. Naturally, there are several German restaurants and biergartens here, as well as a charming downtown with lots of preserved buildings housing boutiques and art galleries. 

Beyond the German heritage, don’t miss the Pioneer Museum, which showcases early settlement life and history, and the National Museum of the Pacific War, which has an informative exhibition on Pearl Harbor.

Also, stroll around the Japanese Garden of Peace, a gift from Japan to the US. And just outside of the town is the so-called Texas White House, Lyndon B. Johnson’s childhood home and ranch, where he also spent time as president. 

Check out the Fredericksburg Wine Tour with Three Winery Stops Plus Lunch

2. Marble Falls

Home to just over 7,000 people, this small town is set right on the Colorado River, also a 90-minute drive from Austin. One of the main draws is the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge , where you can spot all kinds of wildlife, from songbirds to armadillos to bobcats.

There are numerous easy and moderate hikes here (like the Vista Knoll Loop, the Shin Oak Trail Loop or the easy 0.6 Creek Trail). In town, there are many craft wine and beer places to enjoy, and surrounding it are plenty of beautiful bluebonnet (a local wildflower) fields where you can stop to snap photos and all add up to a great day trip.

3. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

If you want more time in the outdoors, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is also just 90 minutes away, about 20 minutes north of Fredericksburg (so you could combine the two in one day trip). It offers almost 11 miles of scenic trails with gorgeous views over the surrounding Hill Country and a perfect day trip for nature lovers. 

The park is named for a giant (425-foot) pink granite dome that’s also great for rock climbing and, if you come at night, stargazing. Hike the Summit Trail if you want to get to the top for panoramic views (it’s around 1.5 miles round-trip and takes just under an hour). 

Just be prepared with sunscreen and water, especially if you’re hiking in the summer months, as there is no shade, and the heat can be sweltering. As it’s one of the most popular things to do in the area, it can get quite busy, and reservations are required on the weekends (and recommended on weekdays). 

4. Kerrville

Known for its beautiful parks, Kerrville is nestled in Texas Hill Country. It’s also (you guessed it) just 90 minutes from Austin by car. Home to around 24,000 people, it’s a cute town sidled up against the Guadalupe River, which is perfect for sunny strolls when the weather is nice (the Kerrville River Trail follows the river for six miles, with lots of benches and places to stop to take in the view or picnic). 

For indoor activities, don’t miss the Museum of Western Art, which highlights Western heritage, with many gorgeous paintings and sculptures, both historic and contemporary. 

5. Krause Springs

Just under an hour from the city, this picturesque swimming area has over two dozen natural springs. These feed swimming pools (both man-made and natural) that are perfect for beating the heat when the sun is shining.

The Krause Springs park spans over 100 acres and gets really popular in the summer, so come early (you can camp or park your RV here if you want to stay overnight). Be sure to check out the serene butterfly gardens, which are incredibly beautiful and bursting with colorful butterflies. Note: This place isn’t open in the winter. 

6. Wimberley

For more natural swimming holes, head to Wimberley. Just 45 minutes southwest of Austin, you’ll find two of the best natural pools in Texas : Blue Hole Regional Park and Jacob’s Well. They’re both fed by natural springs and are great places to cool off in the summer.

Blue Hole has a three-acre swimming area and is enveloped by lush cypress trees, while Jacob’s Well, which looks like a massive natural well, is around 30 feet deep and is popular with divers, as there are lots of caves to explore.

Plus the village of Wimberley, home to just 3,000 people, has all kinds of cool things to see and do, including glass-blowing demonstrations, zip-lining, and wine tasting.

7. Lockhart

If you’re a foodie like me, head to Lockhart. This is the barbecue capital of Texas, just a short, 30-minute drive from downtown Austin. Fill up on mouthwatering eats at popular spots like Smitty’s Market, Black’s BBQ, Kreuz Market, or Lockhart Chisholm Trail BBQ. These offer some of the best barbecue in the country, so be sure to bring an appetite!

When you’re done, stop by Lockhart State Park for a swim or hike. The town, which has just 15,000 people, also has a neat museum all about clocks and watches; it’s super informative and educational, without being boring.

Check out the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle tour from Austin

8. Georgetown

Just 30 minutes north of Austin, Georgetown is a small city home to around 75,000 people. It’s known for its photogenic main street and slower pace of life (though it’s far from boring). It’s a nice place to browse local shops, enjoy a craft beer at one of the breweries, and explore the Inner Space Cavern, one of the best-preserved caves in Texas — over 20 million years old, it’s a karst formation carved from limestone and was opened to the public in 1966.

If you want to beat the heat, head to Blue Hole Park (not to be confused with the Blue Hole Regional Park above), a local outdoor natural pool with a wading area and spots to picnic when the sun is shining. 

9. Pedernales Falls State Park

An hour west of Austin, this state park has over 5,200 acres of hiking and horseback trails, campgrounds, swimming areas, and scenic vistas. If you packed your rod, you can also fish here. The river flows over huge slabs of limestone, and while it’s usually quite calm and perfect for swimming or tubing, it can get choppy, so just be aware of that.

If you want to car-camp, there are sites with water and electricity, but also more rustic hike-in campgrounds if you want to get away from it all for a night.

10. McKinney Falls State Park

While this park is technically in the city (out near the airport), it definitely doesn’t feel like it, making it the perfect spot to escape for a day that is only a short drive. Spanning 744 acres and founded in 1976, it is home to hiking trails and a swimming spot, as well as lots of wildlife (deer, armadillos, coyotes, and raccoons, among others).

Be sure to visit Old Baldy while you’re here, one of the oldest bald cypress trees on public land in Texas (it’s around 500 years old and over 100 feet tall!).

11. Bastrop 

Located 35 minutes east of Austin on the Colorado River, this town of 10,000 people is oozing with small-town charm. It has a historic main street filled with cute shops, and the nearby state park has plenty of trails for hiking (you can also camp here or rent a kayak or canoe).

If you do want to get out on the water, the six-mile El Camino Real Paddling Trail is the perfect excursion (kayak rentals start at $50).

There’s also a brewery and a distillery in town in case you work up a thirst. While you are in town be sure to visit, The Painted Porch bookstore. It’s a awesome independent bookstore with a great selection and an attached record shop.

12. Colorado Bend State Park

The furthest option from Austin, Colorado Bend State Park is a beautiful state park just under two hours away, located in Hill Country and spanning over 5,300 acres. You could easily spend a day here hiking, as there are over 30 miles of trails to choose from.

The Gorman Falls Trail is a quick, three-mile hike and the most popular choice for day-trippers. For something more challenging, try the seven-mile Tinaja and Dogleg Canyon Loop.

You can also fish here or take a dip in the cooling waters of Spicewood Spring. If you’d rather get out on the river and kayak, rentals start at $10 per hour.

Wrapping it Up

There’s a lot to do in and around Austin . This post is really just a starting point.  But when you’re a visitor, you don’t have infinite time so anything on this list will do! These trips will give you a good sense of the area and culture beyond the city’s famous nightlife and foodie scene. 

For advice on accommodation, check out this post on where to stay in Austin . 

Read More About Texas

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15 Best Day Trips from Austin TX

• Austin / In the City / Outdoors / Texas / USA

Looking for a quick getaway from Austin? Don’t miss these spots!

We love the  city of Austin  with all its quirks, swimming holes, and  yummy food , but next time we visit, we want to venture out and take more day trips from Austin.

There is a wealth of experiences a short drive away. You can learn American and Texas history, explore cultural gems and outdoor adventures, all of which will make you fall in love with the Lone Star State.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: October 23, 2023

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• Best Day Trips from Austin TX
• More Austin Day Trips Under 3 Hours
• Map of the Best Day Trips from Austin

Where to Stay in Austin

Planning checklist, more resources, 1. mckinney falls state park.

5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744,  map

Distance:  10.1 mi / 19 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Onion Creek, Homestead Trail What to Eat:   Franklin Barbecue ,  Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill ,  Patrizi’s

While McKinney Falls State Park is technically within Austin, it will make you feel like you’re miles away from the city. Seeing Onion Creek spill over the limestone cliffs will make you appreciate nature. You can take it easy and relax by the falls, have a picnic, and or play in the water to feel like a kid again.

There are 9 miles of trails to enjoy, including the Homestead Trail which mixes remnants of the past with nature, which can keep you busy all day.

See More: Ultimate Austin Bucket List – 101 Things to do in Austin TX

2. Lake Travis

30.4636507,-98.2047276,  map

Distance:  18.4 mi / 31 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Briarcliff Marina, Windy Point Park, Pace Bend Park What to Eat:  Oasis Texas Company ,  Green Mango ,  Napa Flats Wood Fired Kitchen

When it’s too hot in Austin, you can cool down with the locals at Lake Travis. It’s the largest lake in the region and made for water lovers. Stop by the Briarcliff Marina to rent a boat, and a fun day on the water awaits as you sail along the 63 miles of the lake. With its immense size, you can always find a quiet spot on the lake away from the crowds.

The lake can be appreciated on land, too. Windy Point Park is the perfect place to enjoy the river views with a picnic, and the limestone cliffs of Pace Bend Park offer lovely views and several spots for cliff jumping. Oasis is also a popular spot to eat with a gorgeous view.

3. Dripping Springs

509 W Mercer St, Dripping Springs, TX 78620,  map

Distance:  23.4 mi / 35 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Hamilton Pool, Reimers Ranch, Texas Hill Country Olive Company What to Eat:   Crepe Crazy ,  The Salt Lick BBQ ,  SP Brazilian Steakhouse

Cool down in the tranquil turquoise waters of Hamilton Pool. The postcard-perfect falls spilling over limestone cliffs with the collapsed grotto creates a magical world that you won’t want to leave.

If you love the outdoors, Reimers Ranch is nearby and a popular spot for rock climbers to climb on magnificent limestone cliffs along the Pedernales River. There are also fantastic hiking opportunities, including the Upper River Trail.

Want an escape to Tuscany? You’ll feel as if you’re transported to the famed Italian region when you visit the Texas Hill Country Olive Company. Here you can also learn how they make olive oil and enjoy olive oil tastings. The area around Dripping Springs offers other types of tastings as well with its distilleries and wineries.

See More: 49 Best Places to Eat in Austin TX

4. Wimberly, TX

14100 FM2325, Wimberley, TX 78676,  map

Distance:  36.9 mi / 48 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Jacob’s Well, Blue Hole Regional Park, Boot Trail What to Eat:  Hays City Store ,  Mima’s Kitchen ,  Kate’s Place

If you love swimming holes, Wimberly is perfect for you. You’ll find stunning turquoise waters at both Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole Regional Park. Even though it was packed, we loved the swimming hole at Jacob’s Well. We even took turns cliff jumping. Blue Hole has swings for jumping into the water.

If you’re in town, be sure to pick up a map and hunt down the 30 colorfully decorated boots by local artists. They are hard to miss!

5. Pedernales Falls State Park

2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636,  map

Distance:  41.8 mi / 1hr 1 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Waterfalls, Hiking Trails, Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Park What to Eat:   Tillie’s ,  Lady Bird Lane Café ,  Fat Boy Burgers

You can sample everything that the outdoors has to offer at Pedernales Falls State Park. You can lay on the rocks and watch the waterfalls cascade down limestone slabs or cool off with a swim.

The park has some great hiking trails. The easy Twin Falls Nature Trail provides a wonderful lookout over the main falls. If you want more of a challenge, go around Tobacco and Wolf Mountains and visit Arrowhead Pool on the Wolf Mountain Trail (6 miles).

Lyndon B. Johnson State Park is also a short drive away, where the 36th US president was born and raised. Not only can you learn about his life, but see what Texas farm life was like and also see the bison and longhorn cattle.

Note: You can swim in the river, but swimming is not allowed near Pedernales Falls since flash flooding is common.

See More: 17 Free Things to do in Austin Texas

6. New Braunfels / Gruene

237, I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130,  map

Distance:  46 mi / 54 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Natural Bridges Cavern, Landa Park, Guadalupe River, Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theater What to Eat:   Alpine Haus Restaurant ,  Muck & Fuss ,  Spud Ranch

Marvel at the beauty of Mother Earth’s underground sculptures at Natural Bridges Cavern. Then have a picnic, swim, or paddleboat at Landa Park along the banks of the Comal River. On hot days, you can also cool off tubing down the Guadalupe River at the Gristmill.

Nearby, a walk through the quaint town of Gruene feels like a simpler time with antique stores and restaurants throughout. Then end your day vintage style by enjoying a movie on the big screen from the comfort of your car at the Stars and Stripes Drive-In Theater (weekends only).

7. Marble Falls

100 Ave G, Marble Falls, TX 78654,  map

Distance:  47.3 mi / 1hr 1 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Johnson Park, Lakeside Park, Dan Pogue Sculpture Gallery What to Eat:  The Real New Orleans Style Restaurant ,  Wingman Brothers ,  Blue Bonnet Cafe

Rent a bike or take a stroll along the Backbone Creek Trail in Johnson Park and be on the lookout for local wildlife. Enjoy water activities like swimming, kayaking, paddling, and fishing at Lake Marble Falls or relax at Lakeside Park.

Afterward, view the fantastic art sculptures of world-renowned artist, Dan Pogue, and then treat yourself to the famous pies at the Blue Bonnet Café.

Local Tip: People love visiting Marble Falls during bluebonnet season, which is from March until mid-April, generally peaking in April.

8. Longhorn Cavern State Park

6211 Park Road 4 S, Burnet, TX 78611,  map

Distance:  65.9 mi / 1hr 19 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Longhorn Cavern, Nature Trails, Observation Tower What to Eat:   Unshakeable Grounds ,  Mama’s Home Cooking ,  Bills Burgers Wings & Things

The slow and steady hands of nature sculpted the Longhorn Cavern over thousands of years. Though only a short cavern, on the cavern tour, maybe you’ll be the lucky one to find $2 million in treasure said to be buried there by the outlaw Sam Bass.

Above ground, a series of short nature trails start from the visitor center, including the Backbone Ridge Nature Trail and Karst Discovery Trail. For a bird’s eye view of the Hill County, go to the historic observation tower.

9. San Antonio, TX

317 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205,  map

Distance:  79.7 mi / 1hr 25 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  River Walk, The Alamo, San Antonio Missions, Market Square What to Eat:   Gino’s Deli Stop n Buy ,  Pollos Asados Los Norteños ,  Leon Valley Cafe

There’s so much to do and experience in San Antonio, but with its laid-back vibe, you won’t ever feel rushed. The famed Riverwalk is the crown jewel of the city. Enjoy the views, window shopping, and enticing smells from the many cafes as you stroll along the San Antonio River.

Do you know the  real story of the Alamo ? Visit this historical site and put yourself in the shoes of the men who fought here against the Mexican army. Then continue your historical journey by touring the five missions of San Antonio. If you don’t have time to see them all, you should not miss the missions San Jose and Concepción.

Finish your day browsing the endless stalls at the historic Market Square with the largest Mexican market in the US, and try to resist the culinary temptations found in the Pearl District.

10. Guadalupe River State Park

3350 Park Rd 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070,  map

Distance:  83.4 mi / 1hr 42 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Guadalupe River, Hiking Trails What to Eat:  Gennaro’s Trattoria ,  Bare Bull BBQ ,  The Branch Neighborhood Grill

Guadalupe River State Park features 4 miles of shoreline along this scenic river. Swimming, fishing, tubing, and kayaking are just some of the ways to enjoy this slice of happiness as you listen to the melodic sound of the river.

If you love to hike, there are 13 miles of trails at Guadalupe. Standouts include The Painted Bunted Trail and the short Barred Owl Trail with a scenic overlook of the river.

11. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624,  map

Distance:  96.2 mi / 1hr 44 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Pink Granite Dome, Loop Trail, Moss Lake What to Eat:   Sunset Grill ,  Otto’s ,  Woerner Warehouse

Legend surrounds the immense pink granite dome of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. The rock itself covers 640 acres and is currently known as the largest pink granite batholiths uncovered in the US. It has inspired many stories from the Tonkawa Indians, including ghost fires and frightening creaking and groaning sounds. Let us know if you see any strange activity!

You can explore the park via the 11 miles of hiking trails or check out the  classic rock climbing routes . Relax by Moss Lake or hike the 5-mile loop trail around the entire park to get away from the crowds.

12. Colorado Bend State Park

2236 Park Hill Dr, Bend, TX 76824,  map

Distance:  99.5 mi / 1hr 57 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Colorado River, Gorman Falls, Cave Tour What to Eat:  Young’s BBQ & More ,  Eve’s Café

The Colorado River provides a wealth of activities to pass a lovely day at Colorado Bend State Park. You can also hike or bike 35 miles of trail, most notably a 3-mile trail will take you to the base of the stunning Gorman Falls, a living waterfall that keeps growing as time passes.

If you don’t mind getting dirt on your clothes, sign up for a cave tour with only your  headlamp  to light the way! Are you brave enough?

13. Waco, TX

106 Texas Ranger Trail, Waco, TX 76706,  map

Distance:  102 mi / 1hr 40 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Magnolia Market, Waco Mammoth National Monument, Waco Riverwalk What to Eat:   Moroso Wood Fired Pizzeria ,  Taqueria El Crucero

If you love home renovation, you can have your own Fixer Upper experience at the Magnolia Market. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add a special something to their home décor. Afterward, reward yourself with some tasty baked goods at Silos Baking Co.

Relive fantasies from your childhood at Waco Mammoth National Monument as you see the remains of Wooly Mammoths that once roamed the Earth. Then walk along the Waco Riverwalk that follows the Brazos River and enjoy the view of Waco’s many bridges.

14. Houston, TX

1302 Dallas St, Houston, TX 77002,  map

Distance:  165 mi / 2 hr 36 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Space Center Houston, Museum District, Downtown What to Eat:   Yoyo’s Hot Dog ,  Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse ,  Luna Pizzeria

“ Houston, we have a problem. ” Remember those famous words? Now you can visit mission control, step inside full-size replicas of space shuttles and stations, and see where astronauts train.

History, culture, art, and science all come together in Houston’s Museum District. 19 museums reside in this area, and 11 of them are free to enter. If you didn’t get enough steps in your day at all the museums, you can continue touring downtown Houston, which is full of colorful street art and vintage shops.

15. Fort Worth, TX

508 Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76102,  map

Distance:  189 mi / 2hr 58 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Stockyards, Kimball Art Museum, Botanic Gardens What to Eat:   Velvet Taco ,  Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken ,  Campfire Grill Texas Kitchen

You can’t escape the character of Texas as you meander through the historic Stockyards. Enjoy the unique offerings in the many shops as well as all the entertainment offered, including rodeos.

Not only are the works of art worth a visit to the Kimball Art Museum, but the museum itself is an architectural gem. Get lost in the sprawling diversity of gardens at the Botanic Gardens, especially the magnificent Japanese Gardens. Then finish off the day soaking your feet in the Fort Worth Water Gardens downtown.

Map of Best Day Trips from Austin

More Day Trips from Austin Under 3 Hours

• Johnson City ( 47.8 mi / 1 hour,  map )
• Canyon Lake ( 64.6 mi / 1 hr 25 min,  map )
• La Grange ( 65.5 mi / 1 hr 5 min,  map )
• Luckenbach ( 72.2 mi / 1 hr 25 min,  map )
• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Austin hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Austin travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Texas Travel Guide
• 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: San Antonio and Austin
• Austin Pocket Travel Guide

How many of these day trips from Austin have you done? Any day trips we’re missing?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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The Top 14 Day Trips From Austin

From incredible swimming holes and state parks to delightful small towns to buzzy breweries and wineries, there's no shortage of fun day trips in the Austin area. Whether you're itching to get out of the city or you simply want to soak up everything the surrounding Hill Country has to offer, these are the best places to check out.

Wimberley: Swimming Holes and a Quaint Hill Country Town

In quaint Wimberley, you’ll find two of the best swimming holes in Texas: Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole. Fed by the Trinity Aquifer, Jacob’s Well is an artesian spring that releases thousands of gallons of ice-cold water each day. It’s also the second-biggest underwater cave in Texas and the deepest part of the cave system is nearly 140 feet deep.

A stunning feature inside the lush, 126-acre Blue Hole Regional Park, Blue Hole is an iconic swimming spot. Think century-old cypress trees, rope swings, and yes, crystal-clear, blue-tinted water swirling through limestone.

After enjoying the swimming holes, be sure to check out Wimberley afterward—this sweet little Hill Country town is chock-full of antique shops, galleries selling local artwork, kitschy souvenir shops, comfort food cafes, and wine tasting rooms. If you can’t get reservations for Blue Hole or Jacob’s Well, nearby Cypress Creek is a good alternative.) 

Getting There: Wimberley is roughly an hour from Austin and best accessible by car.

Travel Tip: For both Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole, reservations are required and only a certain number of visitors are allowed at a time. Especially in the summertime, you’ll want to book as far in advance as possible (at least a few weeks out). 

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge: Hiking and Birding Galore

Matthewrutledge / Public Domain

For the outdoorsy-minded, Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent spot for hiking and bird-watching. Balcones Canyonlands is a wildlife habitat in Marble Falls, roughly an hour from Austin, and is home to endangered songbirds like the golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo. There are over 7 miles of trails to enjoy here, which take you through the “greatest hits'' of Hill Country hiking: wildflower-dotted prairie land, old-growth trees, rolling hills, and panoramic vistas.

Getting There: Balcones Canyonlands makes for an easy day trip from Austin, as it's just an hour away by car.

Travel Tip: While some wildlife refuges allow dogs, Balcones Canyonlands does not.

Hamilton Pool Preserve: Awe-Inspiring Natural Beauty

About 40 minutes outside of Austin, paradise awaits in the form of a pristine, lagoon-like grotto that’s definitely not your average swimming hole. A beautiful, moss- and fern-covered pool flanked by a 50-foot natural waterfall, Hamilton Pool Preserve offers a truly scenic spot to cool off. Be sure to walk along the slippery rock and stand underneath the waterfall that’s fed by Hamilton Creek and never completely dries up.

Getting There: Go by car so that you can continue exploring the area after your visit to the preserve (it's about an hour's drive from Austin).

Travel Tip: Definitely make advance reservations before you go.

Gruene: Home of the Oldest Dance Hall in Texas

In nearby New Braunfels, historic Gruene is as old-school charming as it gets. Stroll around the town’s city center, stay at the Gruene Mansion Inn, and enjoy dinner at the famed Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar , with its lovely views of the Guadalupe River. Then, spend the evening two-stepping or enjoying a show at the historic Gruene Hall, the oldest continually running dance hall in Texas. The outdoor beer garden here is open daily, and it makes for a great spot to sip a Lone Star and enjoy the music.

Getting There: Gruene is a little over an hour away and best accessible by car.

Travel Tip: Schedule your visit around seeing a show at Gruene Hall.

Guadalupe River State Park: Experience a Classic Texas River

If you’ve never floated lazily down a Texas river on an inflatable tube, with waterproof radios blasting and cans of rosé flowing like water, then it’s time to remedy that. At Guadalupe River State Park, float the day away underneath towering cypress trees and along clear, intoxicating waters, and watch all your cares dissipate like smoke. Though most people do come here to float, as well as swim and fish, there are 13 hiking trails that feature lovely views of the valley and the river.

Getting There: The park is a couple of hours away from the city limits.

Travel Tip: The Guadalupe is definitely a party scene, but if you want more of a chill experience, plan to float during the week or before 10 a.m. on weekends.

Driftwood Estate Winery: Vino With a View

Courtesy of Driftwood Estate Winery

Hill Country is replete with wineries and while many have picturesque views and tasty wines, none compare to Driftwood Estate Winery. At this picture-perfect winery, visitors can enjoy a “Pick Six” wine tasting and a meal from the on-site Driftwood Bistro. Entrees (like the ribeye quesadilla and croque monsieur) are hearty and Texas-ified, though there are salads and cheese plates to pick from, too. But it's the location—high atop a bluff, overlooking the sunny vineyard below—that truly sets Driftwood apart.

Getting There: It's a 45-minute drive down Highway 290 and Ranch Road 12 to Driftwood.

Travel Tip: Time your visit for sunset when the views are at their absolute best.

Sisterdale: A Hill Country Hidden-Gem

Renelibrary / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

More laid-back (and off-the-beaten-path) than other, more touristy towns in Hill Country, Sisterdale is technically an unincorporated farming community. There's no bank or gas station but what the community lacks in modern-day conveniences, it makes up for in natural beauty, outdoor activities, wine, and unique goods. The Sisterdale General Store is a hub for wine tours and tube and kayak rentals (alongside handmade leather items); the Marlowe Candle Company sells hand-mixed and poured candles; and, Sister Creek Vineyards is a must-visit for wine lovers.

Getting There: Reserve at least two hours to driving to Sisterdale and make sure you have a full tank of gas before you leave

Travel Tip: Swim at nearby James Kiehl Park, a small, serene park on the Guadalupe River.

Driftwood: Boozy Delights in Beautiful Settings

Courtesy of Desert Door Distillery

For a booze-fueled daytime adventure just outside of Austin, plan to visit Desert Door Distillery and Vista Brewing , both of which are located within ten minutes of each other in Driftwood. Start your day at Desert Door, where you can sample sotol, a bright, earthy spirit distilled from the wild-harvested sotol plant. Then, you could easily spend hours underneath the giant oak and elm trees at Vista Brewing, sipping craft brews and nibbling on farm-fresh snacks. (Driftwood Estate Winery, is also within an easy ten-minute drive of both of these locations, although trying to do all three in one day might be a stretch.)

Getting There: By car, it takes just over 30 minutes to reach both destinations.

Travel Tip: At Desert Door, hit up the Eden West food truck, where a few of the menu options incorporate sotol.

San Antonio: See an Iconic Texas City

Just a short day trip away from Austin's city limits, San Antonio is home to a slew of awesome cultural attractions and museums, historic landmarks, and a noteworthy food scene. Stroll along the colorful River Walk, or hike or bike along the Mission Reach Trail, which connects the five Spanish colonial missions, including the Alamo. Make sure to visit the ultra-hip Pearl District, where there are a number of great restaurants to choose from (and the weekend farmer's market is bustling).

Getting There: From Austin, San Antonio is about an hour-and-a-half to two hours away, depending on traffic and what part of the city you're coming from.

Travel Tip: Check out the Botanical Garden and the King William/Southtown district, rather than only dwelling in super-touristy areas.

Inks Lake State Park: Swim, Cliff-Jump, Sunbathe, Repeat

One of the best parks for swimming in the area, Inks Lake State Park is a popular spot for cliff-jumping, swimming, floating, and sunbathing the day away. An easy drive from Austin, the aquatic possibilities are endless at this pretty park, with its rocky outcroppings, tall cliffs, and cool waters.

Getting There: The park is an hour and 45 minutes away by car.

Travel Tip: You'll definitely want to get here as early as possible, especially during the summer when the park is packed by noon.

Krause Springs: Lush Beauty and Spring-Fed Pools

Krause Springs offers natural beauty in the form of emerald-green foliage and cold, clear water tumbling down a steep bluff into the pools below. Owned by the Krause family for over 50 years, this natural site has a total of 32 springs on the property, spread out across 115 acres. There are several manmade pools and one natural pool that flows into Lake Travis, although the main attraction is the waterfall area of the natural pool. If you want to spend the night, there are primitive camping sites and 24 RV sites with water and electricity. You can make reservations for RV camping, but the primitive camping sites are first-come, first-served.

Getting There: Krause Springs is located about 30 minutes northwest of Austin.

Travel Tip: The park always hits capacity quickly; go as early as possible to ensure that you get in.

Jester King Brewery & Pedernales Falls: Sour Brews and Waterfalls

Jester King Brewery boasts a homey, inviting atmosphere in a truly gorgeous setting: think golden-lit fields and huge live oak trees shading an old farmhouse, plus plenty of picnic tables, cornhole games, and more than 60 draft options, including the brewery's own spritzy sours. For the perfect Hill Country day, combine an afternoon of eating and drinking at Jester King with a morning spent hiking at Pedernales Falls (pictured here).

Getting There: It's about 30 to 45 minutes west of the city, by car.

Travel Tip: Don't skip on the mouthwateringly good woodfired pizza.

Cypress Valley: Zipline in an Old-Growth Forest

Courtesy of Cypress Valley

Cypress Valley is nestled in an old-growth cypress forest 30 miles outside of Austin with some trees that tower more than 100 feet in the air! Visitors to Cypress Valley have the opportunity to see the ancient trees up close on a canopy tour. The tour includes five zip lines, two sky bridges, and a rappel from the last platform. If you please, you can spend the night here in one of five treetop bungalows sitting at least 30 feet above the ground. Ziplining through giant cypress trees by day and staying in a luxury treehouse by night? Yes, please.

Getting There: Travel by car to Cypress Valley, an hour-long drive from Austin.

Travel Tip: Book well in advance.

Fredericksburg: A Historic German Town

Peter Tsai Photography / Getty Images

Head to Fredericksburg for kitschy souvenir shops, small-town Texan charm, delicious German food, and, of course, delicious German beer. Located less than two hours from Austin, this 19th-century German settlement is brimming with historic charm and fun things to do. Aside from the usual tourist-trap shops, there are plenty of antique stores, museums, vintage shops, wine tasting rooms, and beer gardens that are worth checking out.

Getting There: Fredericksburg is about an hour and 45 minutes west of Austin.

Travel Tip: Be sure to visit the nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, where an otherworldly-looking giant pink granite dome juts out of the earth, drawing hikers from all over the state.

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Home » North America » USA » Texas » 12 Fun Day Trips from Austin

12 Fun Day Trips from Austin

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: November 17, 2022

With swimming spots, breweries, live music, and more, there are tons of things to do in Austin . But the capital is only one of the fun places to go in central Texas. To see a side of the Lone Star State outside of the big city, check out these day trips from Austin.

Dripping Springs

35 minutes west

Just a half-hour from Austin is the little town of Dripping Springs, Texas , which is certainly worth a stop. Cute Mercer Street in its small downtown is lined with boutiques, a couple of breweries, and spots for live music. A few miles away, Mercer Street Dance Hall has shows every weekend, or you can stop by just to have a drink on their porch.

In addition, you can get a hint of Tuscany at the Texas Hill Country Olive Oil Company or try one of the many local distilleries . Treaty Oak Distilling offers whiskeys and gins as well as an on-site restaurant, Frog Pond offers drinks with a view, or stop by Deep Eddy Distillery to try the fruit vodkas they’re well-known for.

35 minutes southwest

Driftwood is a great quick road trip destination for eating and drinking in the Hill Country.

One of the top places for barbecue in Texas, The Salt Lick has tender brisket, flavorful sausage, and one of the most photographed BBQ pits around. This BYOB has indoor and outdoor family-style seating, and there’s a winery right next door to pick up a beverage. If you’re looking for something beyond barbecue, check out Hays City Store & Ice House , which serves Texas comfort food along with craft cocktails and 50+ beers on tap.

There are also lots of options for distilleries and wineries to hang out at for an afternoon. Duchman Family Winery uses 100% Texas grapes for their broad selection of varietals, and Driftwood Estate Winery is a perfect spot for commanding views of the hills. For spirits, stop by Stinson Distilling or Desert Door , which makes a tequila-like spirit from the West Texas sotol plant.

35 minutes south

Barbecue, barbecue, and more barbecue. That’s why people take a day trip from Austin to Lockhart. After all, it is officially known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas.

A road trip to Lockhart takes you to the doorstep of four fabulous barbecue spots – Kreuz Market , Smitty’s Market , Black’s Barbecue , and Chisholm Trail BBQ . Their expertise has been honed over decades, so whether you’re choosing ribs, turkey, or classic brisket, it will be a winner.

Don’t expect anything fancy (or even forks, in some cases), but you’ll walk away happy and full.

50 minutes southwest

Charming Wimberley offers lots to do —fabulous restaurants, shopping, art, and some of the best swimming holes in Texas—all wrapped in small-town hospitality.

The small downtown offers lots to see. Grab coffee from Sip! on the Square and browse the shops. Stop into Dos Olivos Market to sample wine from around the Hill Country, see the towering cypress trees in Cypress Creek, and have dinner at Longleaf Craft Kitchen , which uses seasonal local ingredients in its enticing menu.

If it’s hot, head to one of the local swimming spots—Jacob’s Well or Blue Hole Regional Park . For something completely different, check out a glassblowing demonstration at Wimberley Glassworks where you can see bowls, vases, and other creations come to life in brilliant color.

New Braunfels

1 hour southwest

New Braunfels is well-known for being a city that’s all about the water. Schlitterbahn water park has been one of the top places to go in Texas in the summer since I was growing up, and its popularity endures. There are lots of places to float the river (either the Comal or the Guadalupe), including from Prince Solms Park, which is adjacent to Schlitterbahn.

German influences are clear all over town from the street art depicting historic scenes to places like Krause’s Biergarten and Café , which is decked out in flags and decorations from the different regions of Germany.

Don’t miss the Gruene historic district which boasts buildings from the 1800s and the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas. Make a beeline to the Gristmill for a delicious dinner in an unexpected setting.

Marble Falls

1 hour northwest

On the banks of Lake Marble Falls, the small town of Marble Falls has a lot to offer. Its downtown area is several square blocks filled with dozen of shops, restaurants, and even an outpost of Fiesta Winery . There are also three breweries within just a few miles of each other.

One of the town’s main attractions is Sweet Berry Farm . If you’re visiting from spring to fall, they have lots of seasonal pick-your-own options ranging from strawberries to sunflowers, but the whole place is full of entertainment. Grab some ice cream, do some sand art, and stop by to see the goats.

Turkey Bend Recreation Area is a great place to get outside during all seasons, but it’s particularly beautiful when it’s filled with wildflowers in April. Even if it’s not time to see bluebonnets in person, don’t miss stopping at Bluebonnet Café for a piece of their famous pie.

Johnson City

1 hour 10 minutes west

For history, wine, and unique attractions, Johnson City fits the bill for top places to visit near Austin.

Founded by the cousin of Lyndon B. Johnson, 36 th President of the United States, Johnson City is still home to buildings constructed by the family in the 1800s and other artifacts of the early pioneers. Visitors can also tour the boyhood home of the president and see sites related to his early life as part of the Johnson National Historical Park. More sites, including the Texas White House, are 10 miles down the road in Stonewall.

Downtown Johnson City has shops and cafes and other places to eat, including Pecan Street Brewing , a local favorite that brews all its beers on site. If you’re visiting with kids, don’t miss the Science Mill , a children’s science museum that’s full of interactive exhibits about fossils, energy, robotics, and other engaging topics. Nearby, a castle winery, Pedernales Falls State Park, and some unusual roadside attractions round out the offerings. It’s also a great spot to visit at Christmas when its brilliant light display shines so brightly that it can be seen from space.

1 hour 20 minutes east

Round Top is the place to go for antiques. Check out the antique fairs or some of the other shops and warehouses along Highway 237. If new (but vintage-looking) things are more your style, don’t miss Junk Gypsy of HGTV fame. There’s lots of furniture, jewelry, and country-themed decorations in this fun shop. For more options, stroll through the galleries and shops at Henkel Square Market .

When you’re shopped out, visit the super-popular Royers Round Top Café for a filling lunch or dinner. If you’re just in the mood for their famous pie and can’t wait for a table, head to the cute sister restaurant Royers Pie Haven nearby.

Schulenberg

1 hour 20 minutes southeast

The tiny town of Schulenberg is home to some of the most unique churches in Texas. Visiting several of them makes for an interesting day trip and an experience you’re unlikely to get anywhere else. These churches—known as the painted churches—are unassuming on the outside but remarkable works of art on the inside.

Most of the artwork on the Schulenberg painted churches dates back a century or more to the traditions of the Czech and German immigrants who settled the area. These European families wanted to create decorative churches in their new land that looked like those they were used to at home. With the help of stenciling, marbling, bright colors, and lots of trompe l’oeil techniques, the artworks came to life.

From the dusty rose interior of St. John the Baptist to the bright blue ceiling of Saints Cyril and Methodius, there are so many details to see. In addition to the swirls of ivy and shocks of pink, the churches also have intricate European-style stained glass and life-sized statues throughout the sanctuaries. You can make your own tour or take an official one with the chamber of commerce.

Fredericksburg

1 hour 30 minutes west

Fredericksburg is, undoubtedly, our favorite small town in Texas. It’s a great candidate for a day trip, but a weekend trip from Austin would be even better. Although it has just 10,000 residents, there are lots of fun things to keep you busy in the lively town.

Founded by German settlers, Fredericksburg has a culture that you might not expect in the heart of Texas. This German town is packed with dozens of wineries and several breweries , and it has a cute downtown shopping area filled with boutiques and art galleries.

Nature lovers will enjoy the wildflower gardens at Wildseed Farm, and if you’re visiting during wildflower season, don’t miss the bluebonnets on the Willow City loop just a few miles north of town. There are also historic sites dating to the days of the pioneers and the world-class National Museum of the Pacific War . With lots of places to eat and drink plus frequent live music, Fredericksburg makes for a perfect day trip.

Immortalized in the Waylon Jennings song of the same name, Luckenbach, Texas , is an unusual site you shouldn’t miss if you have time. This tiny town (2 buildings and a few performance stages), which famously only has a population of three is the place to go for country music. Its welcoming, down-home atmosphere makes it a place we love.

Along with food, drinks, and its well-known dance hall, Luckenbach has music nearly every day of the year. There are informal performances and jams as well as concerts from the biggest names in country. Its fun and sometimes quirky festivals like the annual “hug in” contribute to the unique environment.

1 hour 40 minutes east

Brenham, Texas, is synonymous with Blue Bell ice cream , a summer (or any season, really) staple in Texas. Blue Bell’s headquarters is open for visiting, and you can sample the wares at their scoop shop where all the delicious flavors are only $1.

In downtown Brenham , there are beer gardens, art galleries, and live music venues. The buildings are decked out in murals not typical of small Texas towns, and the great food and welcoming vibe will entice you to stay for awhile. Check out Brazos Valley Brewing Company for brews and stop by Truth Barbecue for top-notch brisket and ribs.

For an afternoon of family fun, head to The Yard , an informal baseball venue where anyone can play (and indulge in concession-style snacks!). They host a homerun derby every Friday and lots of other events and competitions.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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25 Essential Things to Do in Austin with Kids (2024)

L ooking for kid-friendly activities in the Austin area? Austin, Texas has exciting historical sites, engaging museums, and mind-blowingly beautiful green spaces to enjoy. Maybe you’re a local Austinite looking for hidden gems that kids will love or maybe you’re a visitor seeking iconic Austin attractions. Keep reading for my list of the best things to do in Austin with kids!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Things to do in Austin TX with kids

1. learn about steam at the thinkery.

Austin’s premier children’s museum, The Thinkery , takes hands-on exploration to the next level. The museum’s exhibits revolve around STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math).

There’s a Kitchen Lab where food meets chemistry and a Light Lab where children can explore color, light, and shadows. Check out the Spark Shop where families discover aerodynamics. It’s the perfect spot for children to learn through play.

For families with younger kids visiting the Thinkery Children’s Museum, there are dedicated play areas where they can play safely and enjoy age-appropriate exploration. There’s Bloom for ages 0 to 3, and the Move! Studio for kids 6 and younger.

2. Explore Zilker Park

Zilker Metropolitan Park is a must-visit destination for families. The park covers over 350 acres in the middle of the city and offers endless outdoor activities. This is where you will find the Barton Creek Greenbelt, an excellent hike and bike trail. There are also kayaks and canoes for rent.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Austin with kids, no trip is complete without a swim in the icy cold water of Zilker Park’s Barton Springs Pool! A 3-acre recreational pool created by floodgates along Barton Creek, this natural water pool remains a chilly 68 degrees year-round.

During the summer, see what performances are on tap at the Zilker Hillside Theater, or take a ride on a miniature train (the Zilker Zephyr). The park is home to the Zilker Botanical Garden, the Austin Nature and Science Center, a sculpture garden, and more! Plan on spending half a day at the park.

3. See the bats under the Congress Avenue bridge

Austin boasts the largest urban bat colony in the world. On summer evenings, tourists and locals alike line the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge to watch an estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge in search of food.

Bats usually emerge from under the bridge most evenings and create quite a scene (depending on the weather and time of year).

If you choose to base yourself near the bridge near nightfall, bring something to protect yourselves from falling guano!

Other options are a kayak tour on Lady Bird Lake , riding a Segway , or taking a boat ride to see the bats from a different point of view.

4. Learn about government at the Texas Capitol

The Texas State Capitol is a sight to behold, as it’s the 6th tallest state capitol in the U.S. and larger than the capitol in Washington, D.C. Inside is just as stunning. Free tours are offered daily, departing every 30 to 45 minutes.

It’s the perfect way to introduce older children to the legal system as they have an opportunity to view the Supreme Court and the Senate and House Chambers.

Bring your camera to take in the beautiful architectural details inside and out!

5. Austin Zoo

For family-friendly adventures in Austin, the Austin Zoo should be at the top of your list. Located just a short drive from downtown, it’s one of the best places to get up close with a variety of animals in a setting that feels more like an animal sanctuary than a traditional zoo.

What sets the Austin Zoo apart is its commitment to providing a home for rescued and displaced animals. You’ll encounter creatures from around the world, from tigers and lions to lemurs and macaws. It’s a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about wildlife conservation and witness these exotic animals up close.

The Austin Zoo is a small sanctuary, so you’ll get through it in about an hour. Plus, the zoo is located near the Barton Creek Habitat Preserve, so you could combine your visit into a nature-filled day exploring the Texas Hill Country.

6. Soak up the local culture with a South Congress Avenue stroll

South Congress is perfect for strolling, eating, and getting a taste of Austin’s character. Kids will have so much fun at Big Top Candy Shop with its treats from floor to ceiling! You can play outdoor games at TOMS shoe and coffee shop or play dress-up at Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds (a costume shop).

Of course, there are plenty of fun spots in Austin for teens and parents. This is your chance to grab the perfect Texas souvenir at Allen Boots, where you can get personally fitted for boots and hats. Jo’s Coffee Shop is the best place to get delicious coffee and boasts a prime location for people-watching.

7. Have an Old-Fashioned Good Time at Peter Pan Mini-Golf

Peter Pan Mini-Golf has been a beloved landmark in Austin for 75 years, and playing a round is one of the most iconic things you can do here!

Open since 1948, this family-owned business was named a State Archaeological Landmark by the Texas Historical Commission. Why not take the kids for some nostalgic fun?

You can purchase 18 or 36 holes at a time, each with the classic green turf and fantastical sculptures that Peter Pan Mini-Golf is known for. There are picnic tables, and you can bring your own food and drinks (there’s also BYOB, just no glass!).

If you’re bringing kids to visit The Lone Star State capital, and are feeling adventurous, strike out and explore beyond downtown Austin. You will be amazed at the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, and your kids will love it too!

8. Hit all the best Austin food spots

Of course, I need to mention South Congress has some of the most amazing food options in the city.

One of the best things to do in Austin with kids is head to Home Slice for its massive pizza slices. Torchy’s Tacos is an Austin staple. And Hopdoddy Burger Bar is worth the lines that always seem to be out the door and down the street!

For sweet treats, there’s Gelato Paradiso and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream, with unique ice cream creations.

This is also the perfect place to check out the food truck scene since Austin’s has become quite legendary in recent years! Don’t miss some of the originals, including Mellizoz Tacos, TX Shawarma, and Gourdough’s (doughnuts) .

If you want traditional Texas staples try Franklin Barbecue, frequently voted one of the best BBQ in Austin . Terry Black’s BBQ and Lamberts Barbecue are also must-tries. For Mexican food, head to Chuy’s, Fonda San Miguel, or Licha’s Cantina.

9. Ooh and Aah at the Dinosaur Park

If you have dinosaur enthusiasts in your family, you’ll want to check out The Dinosaur Park in Bastrop. This prehistoric-themed attraction is a hit with both kids and adults.

Take the Dinosaur Trail and encounter life-size dinosaur replicas hiding among the trees! Kids will love playing I-Spy-A-Saurus and looking for clues along the trail. There are informative signs and displays along the way, including child-size dinosaurs they can climb on for a picture.

You’ll find outdoor pavilions along the trail that are perfect for picnics and birthday parties. There are also indoor exhibits and the Dino Dig, where you can unearth fossils and learn about paleontology. Of course, you will find dinosaur-themed souvenirs at the gift shop.

10. Try a street art scavenger hunt

If you or your kids love street art, Austin is a fantastic place to be. There’s the “Greetings from Austin” mural and the “Before I Die” wall where kids can write about their hopes and dreams.

Austin is a fun place to get a map and go searching for all the spots! For a self-guided tour with the exact locations of many of the most popular street art in Austin, check out this post on Austin’s official website.

If you have tweens and teens who are into selfies, don’t miss the Ice Cream Museum or the Austin Selfie Museum .

11. Head up to Mount Bonnell for sunset views

Historic Mount Bonnell is the perfect spot for a panoramic view of Austin and the surrounding area. It only takes about 10 minutes to climb to the top, and seeing the city from this perspective is stunning.

Plan to arrive close to sunset before heading out for a bite to eat. The entire experience shouldn’t take more than 15 or 20 minutes.

12. Take a Swim in One of Austin’s Local Swimming Holes

One of the best things to do in Austin, Texas for kids is experience one of the area’s amazing natural wonders. A memorable way to explore is taking them swimming! 

About 45 minutes from the city is Hamilton Pool Preserve, a beautiful natural lagoon that has become quite popular. You need to make reservations to visit during the busy summer season (May to September). Also, make sure to wear good water hiking shoes, because it’s a 10–15-minute walk to reach it.

After an easy hike, you’ll come upon the collapsed grotto and waterfall at Hamilton Pool Preserve. It’s absolutely beautiful and it’s perfect for the whole family.

Small children enjoy wading along the pebble beach, and braver big kids can venture further into the depths of the natural pool for a swim.

That’s not the only natural swimming spot to consider! Of course, you can always head to Barton Springs Pool in Austin’s Zilker Park. A short drive away, there’s Krause Springs in Hill Country with 32 springs and two swimming pools.

The Blue Hole at Wimberley is a section of Cypress Creek that’s perfect for spending the day playing and swimming.

Texas State Parks are another great place to spend the day. McKinney Falls State Park offers a day full of outdoor fun, with hiking, biking, historic ruins, and a fun swimming grotto.

13. Visit the essential museum of Texas history, The Bullock Texas State History Museum

The Bullock Museum tells the history of Texas through its collection of artifacts, photos, and hands-on experiences. Kids will love the IMAX movie theatre, the La Belle shipwreck exhibition, and the ability to trace the state’s history through interactive exhibits.

The Bullock Texas State History Museum is open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, and there’s free admission for kids ages 3 and under.

14. Inner Space Cavern

If you’re looking for a unique excursion that will make a lasting impression, take a guided tour of Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown.

Explore caverns and natural wonders underground, then head up to the Inner Space Mine and pan for gemstones.

15. Hike at Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center

For more outdoor activities for kids of all ages, head to Round Mountain northwest of Austin. Here, the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is a unique wildlife and nature preserve that features 2 distinct ecosystems: a savanna and a lower, more diverse canyon biosphere.

Not only is Westcave stunning to see, but there’s a lot you can learn about nature. The preserve is very popular and reservations should be made in advance.

You can see the park through guided tours, and there are a few different ones to choose from!

There are great educational programs for homeschoolers, daytime and nighttime hikes, as well as hikes themed around photography or bird watching. You won’t want to miss exploring the lush grotto and seeing the 40-foot waterfall!

16. Head to an Austin Waterpark or Splash Pad

During the summer months, one of the best things to do in Austin with kids is get in the water! In the greater Austin area, you can visit a splash pad that’s perfect for younger kids in every neighborhood near downtown. And Austin’s water parks are great for families with kids of different ages.

Just a short drive north is Typhoon Texas in Pflugerville, where you can enjoy a day of play at the combined water and adventure parks. There is also Rock ‘N River Water Park in Round Rock. Or you can take the family to the indoor Splash Shack in Cedar Park any time of year!

Also, about an hour south of Austin is the ever-popular Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels. This is the original Schlitterbahn , a 70-acre outdoor water park resort along the banks of the Comal River, known for having over 40 diverse water attractions that appeal to all kinds of visitors.

17. Austin Nature & Science Center

If you’re looking for free things to do in Austin, Texas with kids, an excellent choice is the Austin Nature & Science Center inside Zilker Park! This nature center is a great place to take the kids if you want to burn an hour or two.

There are hands-on activities both indoors and outdoors. The hiking trails feature local wildlife and fun installations.

18. Kayak on Lady Bird Lake

A great way to do some sightseeing in Austin is on a kayaking tour of Lady Bird Lake . Along both shores of the lake, you can find multiple vendors offering hourly rentals of kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. They also provide life jackets and wet bags if you need them.

19. Visit the Cathedral of Junk

The Cathedral of Junk is undeniably one of the best things to do in Austin, Texas with kids! This quirky attraction offers an unforgettable experience for families.

It’s all made of 60 tons of found objects and is the brainchild of the artist, Vince Hannemann. You’ll see the Cathedral of Junk on his private property which he opens to the public. He doesn’t charge visitors for entry, but donations are appreciated.

You can meet Vince and explore what he’s created. The whole place is like a unique playground for kids. They can climb, crawl, and wander through this towering structure made entirely of recycled materials. This is a great stop for anyone looking for Weird Austin, but especially kids who are interested in art.

20. See the Peacocks at the Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve

Austin has so many beautiful green spaces where you can enjoy nature, and all of them are unique. Take Mayfield Park, for example. A big reason families visit is for the resident peacocks! Plus, it’s free to visit.

These gorgeous birds roam freely throughout the park and are known for their calm nature. Kids can often get surprisingly close to the birds, making it a unique opportunity for young animal lovers to observe and interact with wildlife in a safe environment.

The park itself is worth the visit, boasting beautiful gardens, peaceful lily ponds, and picturesque walking trails. You can explore archways into hidden gardens, watch the Koi fish in the pond, or explore stone structures. Mayfield Park is also a great spot for family photos and picnics.

21. Visit the Austin Steam Train Museum

One of the best family things to do in Austin is head to the Austin Steam Train Association Museum and ride a vintage train! The museum itself is a treasure trove of vintage railcars and artifacts. You’ll get a glimpse into the rich history of railroading in Texas and how it helped shape the state.

Most people visit the museum to go on themed train rides. Whether it’s a seasonal holiday ride like the North Pole Flyer or a Wild West adventure on the Hill Country Flyer, the whole family will have a blast. Kids can dress up, enjoy onboard entertainment, and take in the Texas Hill Country scenery.

22. Austin Aquarium

The Austin Aquarium is your chance to get up close and personal with a variety of marine life and exotic animals. It’s a small, local aquarium and the perfect size for a family. You can explore interactive exhibits featuring colorful fish, sharks, reptiles, birds, and more. There might even be animals that you can touch and feed!

23. Austin Toy Museum

For kids and adults who never grew up, the Austin Toy Museum is a must-visit location. You’ll find the storefront along Congress Avenue in downtown Austin, making it a quick, convenient stop for visitors and locals alike.

Parents will love introducing their kids to the toys they grew up with in the 80s and 90s. And kids will have fun playing vintage video and arcade games!

There’s an admission fee that gives you access to unlimited gameplay. Adults can stop by the bar inside for a local craft beer.

24. Dart’em Up

Laser tag can be a little too intense for younger players, but Dart’em Up is the solution! This unique foam dart arena is one of the coolest things to do in Austin with kids ages 5 and up.

It’s a new spot that’s become a popular destination for families, offering hours of fun with arcades, video games, ping pong, their amazing foam dart arenas, and more! Head to the armory to upgrade your weapon and enjoy hour-long games with friends.

Looking for a date night idea? There are adults-only nights with beer and wine! Just check the Dart’em Up website for times, because they hold different hours every season.

25. Austin’s

Austin’s is a fantastic family entertainment center in the Austin area, known for its exciting activities that cater to all ages. This sprawling destination offers a thrilling mix of amusement park rides, arcade games, and delicious pizza.

The park’s outdoor attractions include go-karts, bumper boats, and a miniature golf course, but that’s just the beginning. Indoors, you’ll also find a massive arcade with every game you can think of, as well as a rock-climbing wall!

Austin’s is known for its top-notch buffet that includes fresh pizza and a quality salad bar. There’s even a full bar with screens for watching the game while the kids play.

Where to Stay in Austin

• Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa – This AAA Four Diamond luxury resort is located a half-hour west of downtown. With world-class golf, tennis, and spa facilities, as well as a variety of dining options, it’s a great option for families traveling with kids and teens and one of the best family resorts in Texas !
• Hyatt Regency Austin – This property has a central location downtown, about 15 minutes walking to South Congress. There’s an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center, and some rooms have river and downtown views!
• Fairmont Austin – This upscale property has gorgeous swimming pools, a coffee shop, and a fitness center. Some rooms offer beautiful city views.
• We have also stayed at the Embassy Suites Downtown which has a convenient location and great free breakfast.

Try Out All the Fun Family Things to Do in Austin!

When you’re looking for things to do in Austin with kids, I encourage you to strike out and explore beyond downtown Austin. You’ll be amazed at the beauty of the Texas Hill Country, and your kids will love it too!

Looking for more Texas things to do? Don’t miss these posts:

• 15 Fun Things to Do in San Antonio with Kids
• San Antonio at Christmas
• best weekend getaways from Dallas.

The post 25 Essential Things to Do in Austin with Kids (2024) appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .

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Extra day/night in Austin or San Antonio? - Texas Forum

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Extra day/night in Austin or San Antonio?

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We just wondered if we should change dates and spend more time in San Antonio? Or perhaps you can recommend a national park near Austin instead to spend a day at?

Thoughts welcome!

31 replies to this topic

Many thanks

https://tejasrodeo.com/

Tejas Rodeo is definitely worth your time. It is popular with visitors and locals alike.

That is a large geographic area, so the answer is “maybe, maybe not”. If you want to share the location of your lodging you will get a better answer.

Your stated interests are walking around, eating and drinking. There are lots of areas in Austin for this. Nightlife in Austin is quiet on Tuesday and Wednesday. You can find good live music but will need to do your homework so you don't waste time wandering aimlessly. Look at the Austin Chronicle and Do512 when you get here and choose acts/venues that appeal to you; there will be several choices but not necessarily in the same location.

Fredericksburg does NOT have great nightlife, just FYI. I will just add that the things I wanted to do when I was in my 30’s are not necessarily the same things I now want to do in my 50’s…. Keep that in mind when processing all of the advice you’re getting here…

Yes, Fredericksburg doesn’t have much nightlife. But during the day, the wineries, breweries and distillery tasting rooms stay very busy. Luckenbach and Bankersmith dancehalls outside of town do have fun live music in the evenings.

A new complex of shops and big dance hall that I recommend is Yee Haw Saloon

https://www.visitfredericksburgtx.com/events/concerts-live-music/?view=list&sort=date&filter_daterange%5Bstart%5D=2024-03-24&filter_daterange%5Bend%5D=2024-03-30

Thanks so much for all the suggestions. I assume it’s easy to park at the rodeo and do I book both dinner and entry?

What’s wimberley like? Is it decent for a day trip or a waste of a visit?

Thanks again

TMDA, when you go on the tejas website you book both seperately. Lots of parking

. Didnt have time for wimberley but supposed to be a pretty little town

C-boys heart and soul bar on south congress is really good, looks not much from the outside but so good and they had great bands, bar staff friendly too.

The highball has different music each night motown mondays was really good, terry blacks bbq gorgeous or you have franklins on austin side of the bridge. Where are you staying in austin

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