road trip texas ideas

7 Epic Texas Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

There’s absolutely no better way to explore the Lone Star State than on an epic Texas road trip, and we’ve created this road trip guide to show you some of the best ones around!

From Texas’ largest cities to its open plains, from its laid-back beach towns to its wine country, there is no shortage of variety when it comes to what you can experience in Texas.

Here are the best road trips in Texas–plus a few tips to keep in mind before you go.

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Unforgettable Texas Road Trip Ideas

Austin to san antonio loop.

For first-time visitors to Texas and Lone Star State lovers alike, it’s hard to imagine a better short Texas road trip than the route between Austin and San Antonio –especially because it is so customizable!

While Austin and San Antonio are less than 2 hours apart (allegedly–traffic often has other plans), here are just a few things to you can potentially do on the way: float the river in New Braunfels , swim in Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs, shop in San Marcos, and eat some of Texas’ best barbecue in Lockhart.

If you’d like to extend the trip, consider making a triangle between the two cities by adding a stop in Fredericksburg to enjoy some of Texas’ German history, drink local wine, and climb to the top of Enchanted Rock.

Plus, of course, there are the cities themselves: both Austin and San Antonio are home to enough fun things to do to keep you busy for weeks, from the Alamo to the Texas State Capitol and beyond.

Recommended Road Trip Length

Since the driving distances are so short for this road trip, a four or five day trip is enough to give you a nice overview of the area–but the sheer number of things to do nearby means that you could easily triple that time without getting bored!

Small Hill Country Towns + Outdoor Adventures

This Texas road trip also focuses on the general region between and around Austin and San Antonio–also known as the Texas Hill Country –but instead of focusing the trip on the area’s two large cities with a few stops along the way, this one is focused entirely on the countryside.

Starting from either Austin or San Antonio, head out into the Hill Country to explore the official Texas Wine Trail, stop by whimsical Wimberely to experience Jacob’s Well and its colorful downtown, scarf down German food in Fredericksburg , sample barbecue in Lockhart, swim in Dripping Springs, head to the LBJ Ranch, and stop by the positively tiny town of Luckenbach.

Be sure to also mix in plenty of outdoor beauty: Enchanted Rock , Pedernales Falls State Park, Natural Bridge Caverns, and Guadalupe River State Park (one of the most popular spots for floating the river ) are all accessible on this Texas road trip.

A week is long enough to have an incredibly memorable Texas Hill Country trip, though not long enough to see it all!

Texas’ portion of Route 66 is fairly short–you can drive it straight across the panhandle in about 3 hours without stopping–but it definitely makes for a classic Texas road trip!

Along Route 66, by far the biggest city you’ll pass is Amarillo, where you should definitely stop to check out the Historic Route 66 District, the American Quarter Horse Museum, and–for the very, very hungry–the 72 oz. steak challenge at the Big Texan Steak Ranch (don’t worry, they have more human-sized portions on offer too).

You’ll definitely want to swing by Cadillac Ranch as well, located just west of Amarillo, for a sight that you just don’t see everyday: 10 Cadillacs with their frontends buried in a field, spray-painted within an inch of their lives. 

Lesser-known Slug Bug Ranch (similar concept as Cadillac Ranch, but with slug bugs) is located on Route 66 as well, but on the eastern side of Amarillo.

Though it’s not technically on Route 66 itself, I also highly recommend swinging south of Amarillo to check out Palo Duro Canyon , the second-largest canyon in the USA and an unforgettable place to visit!

While you can easily drive Texas’ portion of Route 66 in a single day, we recommend spending a night or two in either Amarillo or Canyon to enjoy the nearby sights and some of the hikes in Palo Duro Canyon!

Wide Open Spaces in West Texas

West Texas is not only home to the sprawling, harsh desert landscapes that the Lone Star State is often associated with, it’s also home to both of Texas’ national parks, which can act as the backbone to a phenomenal Texas road trip.

After exploring some of the best things to do in El Paso , head to Guadalupe Mountains National Park for truly majestic landscapes (and depending on time, consider dipping across the border to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico as well).

From there, head off to Big Bend National Park: don’t miss hiking Santa Elena Canyon or admiring the views from Marshall Drive!

Nearby, you’ll find the lesser-known but still phenomenal cousin of Big Bend National Park: Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Along the way, consider stopping at the ghost town of Terlingua, the artsy town of Marfa (famous for its Prada store that never opens), and the McDonald Observatory, to fully appreciate the inky black night sky of West Texas.

In order to fully appreciate both national parks as well as Big Bend Ranch State Park while still leaving time for additional sightseeing along the way, we recommend taking around a week and a half to enjoy a West Texas road trip.

Dallas Loop Road Trip

For a Texas road trip with a fantastic mix of big cities, great food, charming small towns, and even a bit of nature, consider taking a road trip beginning and ending in Dallas.

Start off your trip by enjoying the best of Dallas and Ft. Worth, including the Arboretum, Reunion Tower, and Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas, and the Stockyards in Ft. Worth.

From there, head down to Waco, where you’ll find the insanely popular Magnolia Market at the Silos, the beautiful campus of Baylor, Wooly Mammoth National Monument, and even a Dr. Pepper Museum (Texans are serious about Dr. Pepper).

Be sure to stop along the way for kolaches in West, Texas!

Depending on the time of year and amount of time you have for your road trip, other destinations to mix in include Dublin (the original home of Dr. Pepper and a town with lots of Irish influences), Grapevine (one of the best Christmas destinations in Texas), Ennis (home to some of the best bluebonnet fields in the state during the spring) and Canton (adorable and historic, plus home to one of the best flea markets in Texas ).

A quick 3-day weekend is long enough to hit a few major sights in both Dallas and Ft. Worth and briefly see Waco as well, but for the full experience covering the great small towns near Dallas, 5-7 days would be a better time frame to work with.

Gulf Coast Road Trip

If you’re looking for a beach escape in Texas, you can’t do better than road tripping the southern section of the Gulf Coast.

Starting in Corpus Christi , head down the coast to charming Mustang Island before making your way down to South Padre to enjoy one of Texas’ most beloved beach escapes.

From riding horses on the beach to visiting a sea turtle sanctuary to, of course, simply enjoying the sun and waves, you’ll find plenty to do along the way.

Be sure to stop in Port Isabel to see Texas’ second-smallest state park and climb the 19th-century lighthouse for beautiful views of the town and water, too!

This road trip can be enjoyed over a 3-day weekend, though you’ll probably want to choose between visiting either South Padre or Mustang Island if you’re short on time.

To visit both islands and stop at fun spots like Port Isabel along the way, a week is a good time frame for this road trip in Texas.

Piney Woods Road Trip

Nothing puts the diversity of Texas on display quite as obviously as starting in the enormous metropolitan area of Houston and then driving due north, where very quickly, city will give way to green forest–a far cry from the desert landscapes of West Texas or the endless fields of the Panhandle that Texas is more likely to be associated with.

East Texas, though, is a whole different ball game, from the barbecue (generally served on a bun with sauce, unlike its better-known cousin from Central Texas) to the landscape.

For your Piney Woods road trip, stop by Davy Crockett National Forest to get an idea for what the nature in East Texas has to offer before heading onto towns like Palestine (one of the homes of the Texas State Railroad), Longview, Jefferson , Marshall, and Nacogdoches.

Caddo Lake State Park, with its beautiful bayous and Spanish moss, is also a must-see stop on an East Texas road trip.

Don’t forget to leave a little time for Houston itself: the Houston Space Center alone is worth the trip!

Starting and ending in Houston, you can get a good overview of the Piney Woods area in around a week–but consider extending your Texas road trip a bit to dip down south of Houston to enjoy the beaches of the Gulf Coast a bit, too!

Tricks + Tips for Road Trips in Texas

Don’t underestimate the distance involved in taking a texas road trip..

Fun fact: when you’re in El Paso, you’re closer to San Diego than Houston!

As the second-largest state in the USA, Texas covers a positively enormous amount of land–much of it extremely empty land, especially the further west you go–and therefore taking a road trip in Texas means planning strategically based on where in the state you are.

… and definitely don’t try to cover the whole state in one trip.

Unless you have the time and inclination to drive for thousands of miles, looping around the entirety of Texas’ most famous attractions is not realistic on a single Texas road trip.

The good news is, though, that that means there’s always a reason to come back!

Stopping and Buc-ee’s and Rudy’s are important parts of any road trip in Texas.

Buc-ee’s has a bigger reputation, but Rudy’s has better breakfast tacos–in my opinion, anyway, but there are definitely those who vehemently disagree!

Either way, these iconic Texas institutions deserve to be part of any Texas road trip. 

Rudy’s is a chain of barbecue restaurants with a side of selling gas and running a small general store, and Buc-ee’s is a gigantic gas station/souvenir shop/bakery/snack station with obsessively clean bathrooms and a beaver statue out front–and with a description like that, how can you not want to see it in person?

Texans drive fast, so be prepared!

The highest posted speed limit anywhere in Texas is 85 mph (70, 75, and 80 are more common, though), but on the long stretches of the open road, let’s just say that the speed limit can often, in practice, turn into the speed minimum.

Fill up when you can, especially when headed to rural areas.

Texas isn’t exactly Australian-Outback-levels of deprived of gas stations, but especially if you’re driving through very rural areas and/or on back roads, you won’t want to stress over your gas tank getting too low.

If you’re not in a hurry, opt for the back roads once in a while.

From beautiful farms to surprising small towns, there’s a lot of beauty lurking on Texas’ smaller roads.

Don’t plan a Texas road trip entirely around the big cities.

Texas’ cities are incredible, but many of the charms of road trips in Texas lie far away from their skyscrapers and (notorious) traffic.

Small towns, state parks, and wide-open spaces are some of the best things you can see in the Lone Star State, so be sure to mix them into your Texas road trip itinerary!

5 thoughts on “7 Epic Texas Road Trip Itinerary Ideas”

WOW! I lived the first 40 years of my life and now realize I only experienced a tiny bit of the wonders! After reading your articles (and seeing the pictures!) I can’t wait to go back and experience all of it!

Thank you so much, Diane! There is truly an overwhelming amount of things to see in Texas, we may never be done exploring it all!

Excellent presentation, but you should mention the twisted sisters, after TXDOT completes the bridge rework over Mill Creek.

I live in Virginia and I visit Texas every year and I have never before had a plan as well out as these seven trips. Thanks.

Glad to hear it, Fred! Enjoy Texas 🙂

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Home » North America » Best Road Trips in Texas (Texas Best Destinations in 2024)

Best Road Trips in Texas (Texas Best Destinations in 2024)

A combination of awesome national parks and buzzing cities make Texas the perfect place to explore by car. Any good road trip will have you travelling between them along wide open roads with endless landscapes on either side of you. And there’ll be BBQ spots and natural pools to break up the journey!

It’s hard to plan a road trip to Texas because the place is just so big. In fact, it’s the biggest state in the lower. So, how can you pack the most in without tiring yourself out with the long drives between destinations? That’s where we come in.

In this post, we’ll help you plan the perfect Texas road trip. Not only will we tell you where to go, but we’ll also give you some ideas about what to do when you’re there and the best places to stay for your budget. With our expertly crafted Texas road trips, you’re sure to have an excellent adventure. Let’s hit the road!

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Why Roadtrip in Texas?

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If you don’t know Texas well or you’re not yet convinced about travelling across the state by car, let us reassure you; here are the top five reasons to road trip in Texas:

• National Parks:  With more than 100 national and state parks, there are plenty of spectacular spots in the state where you can get close to nature and enjoy outdoor activities.
• History:  It’s not just the natural sites that impress in Texas. Historical sites leftover from French, Spanish, and Mexican rule dot the state. Sites of battles and mission churches make learning about Texas’ past more accessible.
• Cities:  There are some huge cities in Texas, each with their own distinct character and personality. Austin is known as The Live Music Capital of the World, while Houston is said to be the most diverse city in the US!
• Texas BBQ:  BBQ here is more than just regional cuisine; it’s synonymous with the Lone Star State. You won’t find better brisket and ribs anywhere on earth!
• Rodeo:  Is there anywhere more associated with cowboys than Texas? We’d say no. Be sure to check out one of these awesome events on your road trip – there are events year-round at Forth Worth!

Surely by now you’re loading up the car and looking for the nearest gas station. First, though, let’s get some admin out of the way.

The Ultimate Texas Road Trip – 6 days

National and state parks route – 7 days, texas hill country loop – 3 days.

• From: Austin
• Total Distance: 738 miles
• Top Road Trips Stops: San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin

This is the best road trip in Texas if you want to get a taste of city life and not have super long distances between each stop. You’ll get a sample of all the best that Texas has to offer, with live music in Austin, shopping in Dallas, and rodeo in Forth Worth. There are several stops on the roads in between that will show you rural Texas too. This one really does have everything!

Make sure you check out our guide to the best motels in Austin , because they are located near the main road links and are cosy and affordable, perfect for road trips!

Road Trip Highlights:

• Austin Cathedral of Junk
• Alamo Fort and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
• Space Center Houston
• Dinosaur Valley State Park
• Forth Worth Stockyards Cattle Drive

Day 1: Austin to San Antonio (1.25 hours)

Your first day doesn’t have a lot of driving at all, so you can spend plenty of time in both Austin and San Antonio. Starting off in the Texan capital, there are loads to do depending on your travel style (and the weather).

If it’s sunny, check out Lady Bird Lake for a spot of stand up paddleboarding or chill out in Zilker Park. Alternatively, visit the impressive Texas Capitol Building – the largest of its type in the country. Don’t worry if you don’t get to see everything you want to in Austin; your road trip ends here too. But now, on to San Antonio!

If you’re looking for a unique place to stay in San Antonio, consider checking out one of the best bed and breakfasts in Texas for an affordable and homey feel.

• Best Things to Do:  Texas State Capitol, Zilker Metropolitan Park and Botanical Garden, Barton Springs Pool, Cathedral of Junk
• Where to Eat:  SFC Farmers’ Market at Republic Square, Franklin Barbecue, Mrs Johnson’s drive-in doughnut bakery (Austin)
• Where to Stay:  Drifter Jack’s Hostel , Aloft Austin Northwest , Downtown Birdhouse

Day 2: San Antonio and the Hill Country 

Of all the cities in Texas, San Antonio is said to be the hardest to drive in. That’s because it doesn’t follow the regular grid system. However, don’t let that put you off – it’s a fascinating place. Since you have the whole day here, you have a couple of options.

Stay in town to check out the River Walk or visit the legendary Alamo Fort, where Texas won its independence. Alternatively, you can drive out into the hill country. We’ve got a whole road trip coming up later on Hill Country, so more info on that then!

• Best Things to Do:  The Alamo, San Antonio River Walk, Natural Bridge Caverns, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, San Antonio Botanical Garden
• Where to Eat:  El Mercado Plaza (over 100 local restaurants and shops), Pearl Farmers Market, Buckhorn Saloon and Museum
• Where to Stay:  Hilton Palacio del Rio , Historic River Walk Loft Apartment , Awesome Location Alamo/Riverwalk

Day 3: San Antonio to Houston (3.5 hours)

Day three sees you head east towards the coast and Houston on I-10. It’s the southernmost highway in the US and actually runs fully from Los Angeles to Jacksonville in Florida. But you’ll only be on it for a relatively short stretch. Once you arrive in Houston, you’ll be welcomed by the 4th largest city in the United States – and the most diverse! There’s just so much to do in Houston.

Insider tip: If you’re looking for awesome accommodation, check out the numerous amazing Airbnbs in Houston !

Leave San Antonio early so that you can head to Houston’s Space Center, where there’s a lot to see! Then, make your way into the city and explore the downtown underground tunnels. If your car is dirty, stop off at the world’s longest car wash.

• Best Things to Do:  Space Center Houston, Discovery Green Park, The Galleria Mall, Hines Waterfall Park, World’s Longest Car Wash
• Where to Eat:  The Hobbit Café, Rosie Cannonball, Hando, Toukei
• Where to Stay:  Wanderstay Houston , Courtyard Houston Downtown Convention Center , Small Modern Airbnb , Peaceful Studio with Downtown View

Day 4: Houston to Dallas (3.5 hours)

Take I45-North for the quickest route from Houston to Dallas. Alternatively, take Highway 6 North. The trip adds an extra two hours, but it’s worth it to stop off at Dinosaur Valley State Park.

As well as fossilised footprints, there are hiking trails and a playground. Great if you’re travelling with kids. When you arrive in Dallas, get a lay of the land from the top of the Reunion Tower. Then, if you still have time, check out the Sixth Floor Museum. It’s thought to be where JFK’s assassin fired from. Booking in advance online is recommended, and don’t forget a cool place to stay !

• Best Things to Do:  Dinosaur Valley State Park detour, Dallas Arts District, Reunion Tower, Sixth Floor Museum
• Where to Eat:  Sno (ask for a Piccadilly Raspa), Taqueria El Si Hay, S + D Oyster Company, Bubba’s Cooks Country
• Where to Stay:  The Wild Wild West , Alla’s Historical Bed and Breakfast , Retro 80s House , Downtown Tiny House

Day 5/6: Dallas to Forth Worth and Return to Austin (3.5 hours)

Day 5 is just a short drive on I-30 west to Forth Worth before the final stage of your loop back to the Texan capital, Austin. It’s famous for the Daily Cattle Drive, so you might end up in a traffic jam behind a herd of cows if you’re not careful.

The city is a blend of modern and traditional, and its cowboy roots mix with an exciting art and dining scene. The Fort Worth Water Gardens are a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and chill out before you return to Austin.

• Best Things to Do: Fort Worth Stockyards Cattle Drive, Fort Worth Water Gardens, Kimbell Art Gallery, Billy Bob’s Texas.
• Where to Eat:  Billy Bob’s Texas (lots of bars and restaurants), FunkyTown Donuts, Riscky’s Brisket Bites, Wabi House.
• Where to Stay:  Hilton Fort Worth , Treehouse Studio near Downtown , Backyard Cottage near Downtown

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• From: Padre Island National Seashore
• Total Distance: 1,316 miles
• Top Road Trips Stops: Padre Island National Seashore, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Big Bend National Park, Guadalupe Mountains, Dinosaur Valley State Park

Now, let’s look at the best road trip in Texas for nature lovers. This will take you through every type of landscape there is in Texas. Starting off at the coast, you can bathe in the warm Gulf Waters and watch wildlife on South Padre Island. If you fancy spending extra time on the coast, Port Aransas is just a short drive away.

If you head to Port Aransas, consider staying in Corpus Christi where the vacation rentals are a little more affordable. Corpus Christi is also somewhere you might want to stay a couple days. There’s plenty of things to do in Corpus Christi but windsurfing is the number one activity.

Then, learn more about Texas’ history at the Missions National Historical Park. Hike and bike in the Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains National Parks, before jumping back to prehistoric times at Dinosaur Valley State Park.

If you fancy this one, you could even rent an RV in San Antonio for a truly epic journey!

• Bird watching on South Padre Island
• Cycling between the churches of Missions National Historical Park
• Glamping in Big Bend National Park
• Climbing Guadalupe Peak
• See dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Valley State Park

Day 1 and 2: Padre Island National Seashore to Missions National Historical Park (2.5 hours)

The first day of this Texas road trip is one of those which is lighter on the driving. You’ll cover 172 miles on I-37 North from Padre Island to the Missions National Park. Having such a short drive means you have time to explore Padre Island’s gems, and if you can extend your trip, we highly recommend staying in Padre Island to make the most of the area.

Wildlife lovers will not be disappointed – there are more than 380 species of birds in the parks, and you can even release turtle hatchlings. Spend the night here before moving on to Missions National Historical Park. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that consists of four different missions sites along the San Antonio River.

• Best Things to Do:  Birdwatching in Padre Island National Seashore, kayaking, canoeing, or windsurfing on the Laguna Madre, Biking along the San Antonio River.
• Where to Eat:  Bar Louie South Padre Island, Barry’s International (Padre Island). Savor, Bourdro’s Texas Bistro, Cookhouse (San Antonio)
• Where to Stay: Hilton Garden Inn , Surfside Condo (South Padre Island), Drury Plaza Hotel , Private Riverwalk One Bed House

Day 3 and 4: Missions National Historical Park to Big Bend National Park (7.5 hours)

The next leg of your trip can be split across two days if necessary – after all, you’ll be travelling more than 400 miles! After a big breakfast in San Antonio, head west on the US-90 Highway towards Big Bend National Park. You’ll be skirting along the Mexican border for some of it!

Big Bend National Park offers incredible desert and mountain landscapes that are popular with hikers and campers. After an arduous hike in the Santa Elena Canyon, find a hot spring along the Rio Grande to soak those aching muscles.

If you’re into your art, the town of Marfa is pretty close by and well worth checking out! There’s lots of great places to stay in Marfa , if you fancy a little road trip detour.

• Best Things to Do:  Hiking in the Santa Elena Canyon, Hot Spring Historic Trail, Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
• Where to Eat:  Chisos Mountains Lodge Mountain View Restaurant
• Where to Stay:  Off-Grid Adobe Dome , Cozy Cactus , Tin Valley Retro Bus , Las Estrellas Tipi

Day 5: Big Bend National Park to Guadalupe Mountains National Park (5 hours)

Another long journey today, but it’s well worth it. You’ll swap the desert lands of Big Bend National Park for the mountains of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Make a very early start and stop off in the town of Van Horn for a late breakfast.

As you carry on towards Guadalupe Peak itself, keep your eyes peeled for the population of bighorn sheep that call the area home. Stay the night in the park before tackling Guadalupe Peak the next day. It’s a 6 – 8 hour round trip, but you won’t want to do it in the midday heat!

A top tip, if you want to stay near the Guadalupe Mountains National Park and you have a bit more time, consider staying in El Paso. There are a lot of things to do in El Paso so if you’re thinking of extending your trip for a day or two, this would be a worthwhile detour.

• Best Things to Do:  Clark Hotel Museum (Van Horn), Guadalupe Peak hike, Smith Spring Loop Hike from Frijole Ranch.
• Where to Eat:  Boots and Scoops, Mom’s Kitchen, Cornudas Cafe.
• Where to Stay: West Patio Bed and Bath , Farm Stay in Dell City

Day 6 and 7: Guadalupe Mountains National Park to Dinosaur Valley State Park (7 hours)

The quickest way to your final stop on this Texas road trip itinerary sees you leaving the state altogether! Yep, you’ll pass through New Mexico on your way to Dinosaur Valley State Park along I-20 E. There are a few places to break up your trip (which you can do in one day or spread over two) on the highway. The first is near Sweetwater – the National WASP WWII Museum.

It’s an off the beaten track tribute to the first women who flew aircraft in the military. Stop for a kolache at Texas Doughboys in Abilene before visiting the site of the Santa Claus Bank Robbery in Cisco. Stay the night in Glenrose before checking out Dinosaur Valley State Park. Then, it’s a return to Dallas! If you still have time and want to visit some more, there’s a lot of things to do in Dallas.

• Best Things to Do:  Dinosaur Valley State Park, National WASP WWII Museum, Old Rip Horned Lizard (Eastland), Site of Santa Claus Bank Robbery, Cisco.
• Where to Eat: Texas Doughboys (Abilene), Hammond’s B-B-Q (Glen Rose)
• Where to Stay:  Modern Farmhouse , The Glenrose Treehouse , Country Woods Inn

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• From: San Antonio
• To: San Antonio
• Total Distance: 279 miles
• Top Road Trips Stops: Bandera, Kerrville, Fredricksburg, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, New Braunfels

Are you looking for Texas road trip ideas that don’t take up an entire week? Or perhaps you don’t want to be driving for miles and miles in an unfamiliar state? Well, not to worry. This much shorter trip is made just for you. A road trip in Texas Hill Country combines beautiful scenery, BBQ spots, and cowboy towns. It’s the true essence of Texas! And yes, there is some great hiking and climbing along the way.

• Oompah music at Ausländer Biergarten in Fredricksburg
• Enchanted Rock Natural Area
• Bracken Cave Preserve bat colony

Day 1: San Antonio to Fredricksburg (2 hours)

You can get from San Antonio to Fredricksburg in as little as an hour and ten minutes. However, that would mean missing out the charming towns of Bandera and Kerrville. Just a short journey west on Highway 16, Bandera is the self-titled Cowboy capital of the world. It’s a good spot for lunch (or a late breakfast) before moving on to Kerrville.

If you didn’t eat in Bandera, stop at Billy Gene’s, where you can dine with views of the Guadalupe River. Not hungry? Check out Stonehenge II instead. Your stop for the night is Fredricksburg. You’ll have to pinch yourself to be reminded you’re not in Germany!

• Best Things to Do:  Frontier Times Museum, Great Western Cattle Trail (Bandera), Stonehenge II (Kerrville), shopping and eating in Fredricksburg.
• Where to Eat: Old Spanish Trail Restaurant (Bandera) Billy Gene’s (Kerrville) Ausländer Biergarten (Fredricksburg)
• Where to Stay: Hotel Kitsmiller on Main , The Hideaway , Casa Tranquila

Day 2: Fredricksburg to Bracken Cave Preserve/New Braunfels (3 hours)

Head north from Fredricksburg area to your first stop of the day – Enchanted Rock Natural Area. There are more than eight miles of hiking trails here, and rock climbing for more adventurous tourists. Don’t spend too long here though, because your next stop is the beautiful natural spring of Hamilton Pool.

It’s a protected nature reserve, and you can’t swim here, but you’re sure to get some fantastic photos so don’t forget your camera. The final spot for the day is Bracken Cave Preserve. You’ll want to get there before dusk, as it’s home to the largest colony of bats in the world!

• Best Things to Do:  Hiking and climbing in Enchanted Rock Natural Area, Hamilton Pool, Bracken Cave Preserve.
• Where to Eat:  Enchanted Inn Restaurant, The Ice Cream Shop Hamilton Pool Road
• Where to Stay: River Road Bungalow , Canyon Getaway with Beautiful Views

Day 3: Bracken Cave Preserve/New Braunfels to San Antonio (1 hour)

With the hot weather in Texas Hill County, you’ll want to cool off, so head to Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort. It’s great fun for the whole family. Check out the cute town of New Braunfels and its shops and restaurants before a leisurely drive back to San Antonio. Once you’ve parked up, check in to your accommodation for the evening before going to the Japanese Tea Garden to decompress after a busy few days. Then, find somewhere for dinner on the River Walk!

• Best Things to Do:  Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort, Natural Bridge Caverns, Gruene Hall, Japanese Tea Garden.
• Where to Eat:  Das Nutrition Haus, Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar (New Braunfels), The Barbecue Station, WD Deli (San Antonio).
• Where to Stay:  Inn on the Riverwalk , Hotel Valencia Riverwalk , City View River Walk Studio

There are two types of driving in Texas, and they’re both very different – urban driving and rural driving. Urban driving is the same as in many cities across the US. Most cities operate a grid system, and it’s easy to find your way around. However, San Antonio can be quite frustrating!

If you’re driving in rural Texas, be sure to fill up when you can as there may not be another gas station for miles. It’s also essential to keep bottled water in your car – it can get mighty hot.

Texan drivers can be quite aggressive, so make stops at roadside attractions on long rural drives to decompress. While it can be a challenge at times, don’t let any of this put you off. Driving in Texas is a lot of fun!

Renting a Vehicle in Texas

It’s really easy to rent a car, too. Go with one of the big companies at an airport or a major city, and you shouldn’t have any problems. Your rental desk may encourage you to go for something bigger if you’ve booked in advance, but remember that you know best what you’re comfortable driving.

When renting a car in Texas, do consider the following:

• Age Surcharge: Drivers under 25 can expect to pay more to rent a car by roughly $30USD per day.
• Deposit: Cash deposits are not accepted by most rental companies. Expect to pay somewhere between $100 and $300 USD on a debit or credit card. You’ll get it back if the car is returned in the same condition as you took it!
• Additional Driver Charge: Additional drivers can be added for as little as $10, provided they meet age and license requirements.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also tap into the van life to explore this beautiful state by renting an RV in Austin. You can do it from multiple other cities too because the RVs can come to you!

Texas law requires you to have a type of insurance called 30/60/25. Because you won’t be able to drive the car away without this, rental companies can charge extortionate amounts. Get insured for a better price beforehand with RentalCover.com

Don’t have a car? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out! Use  rentalcars.com  to find the best deals on the web and save heaps of cash!

Road Rules in Texas

Rules for driving in Texas are pretty similar to those throughout the United States. You’ll be driving on the right and passing on the left. However, each city may have a few subtle differences, so it’s a good idea to check out those according to the city or cities you’re planning to visit.

Some of the most important rules include using headlights when visibility is less than 1,000 feet. We’d suggest just using them all the time to be safe. It’s against the law to litter from your vehicle, which carries a fine of up to $500. And, while the blood alcohol content can be 0.08%, it’s best if you don’t drink and drive.

There are a couple of unusual laws in Texas that probably won’t make a blind bit of difference to your trip, but we figured you’d want to know anyway. While it’s illegal to use a vehicle that doesn’t have windshield wipers, you can’t operate a vehicle without a windshield. Not sure what the wipers are brushing there!

And the road rules don’t just stop at cars. In Texarkana, horses must be fitted with tail lights for nighttime rides. We don’t think a horse could cover the distances we have in mind for you, though!

Insurance in Texas

We touched on insurance earlier, but here’s a little more info. Texas law requires drivers to have 30/60/25 insurance. This is $30k injuries per person, $60k per accident, and $25k for property damage. This is the MINIMUM that you’re expected to have.

This can be a bit confusing, especially if you’re not from the United States. So, check out RentalCover.com . Their collision damage coverage and roadside assistance packages can save you money. Don’t get ripped off paying over the odds with your rental company’s insurance packages!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you’re not careful, Texas’s wilderness will smack ya to next Monday.  There are six road trip essentials I never go traveling without:

1. First Aid Kit : Even if you don’t plan on doing anything extreme on your trip, like hiking, climbing, or other extreme sports, you never know what could happen. You could cut yourself while cooking, smash a finger in a car door, or burn yourself on a hot radiator. A first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

2. Aux Cord : One of the only things to do on a long car ride by yourself is to listen to music or a podcast. Since most people use their phones as an MP3 player these days, an auxillary cord is crucial to preserving your sanity. If there is no auxiliary port in your car, buy a radio transceiver or use a portable speaker.

3. Phone mount :  It’s very dangerous to be looking down at your phone while driving. If you need to have access to your phone, for maps and what-not, buy a mount for it. This way, you can keep your eyes on the road and your phone won’t be far from your field of view.

4. Headtorch : Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable I never have to buy earth polluting batteries.

5. Roadside Emergency Kit : Just like you never know what could happen to yourself , one never knows what can happen to their car . A vehicle can mysteriously fail, break, run into a ditch; all that and then some. Most emergency kit include a pair of jumper cables, a tow rope, a set of essential tools, and ties.

6. Toiletry Bag : I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full road trip packing list.

Well, that’s just about everything covered, and you’re ready for your road trip in Texas! Will you be soaking up the culture of the cities, imagining the battle scenes of the Alamo, or finding dinosaur footprints in a state park? All of this and more is possible on your Texan road trip.

We’re sure that any of the three awesome road trips above will give you unforgettable memories of your trip to the Lone Star State. Just be sure to pick the one that’s the best match for your travel style… and how much you want to drive. Trust us, it’s (Fort) Worth it!

If you’re thinking of exploring the neighbouring areas, check out our Best Road Trips in Southwest guide!

• Check out our backpacking Dallas guide for in-depth info for your trip.
• Check out the  best B&Bs in Texas for the start of your epic trip.
• Check out all the epic  things to do in Lubbock, Texas while you’re visiting.
• Broaden your horizons by embarking on an epic road trips around the US .

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Hey folks…quick correction in the Texas driving segment. “And, while the blood alcohol content can be 0.8%, it’s best if you don’t drink and drive.” I have the utmost confidence you meant .08%. I was probably a solid .8% once in my life. Think I lost my dog, my truck, and any remote sense of dignity that night.

Indeed, thanks for spotting that, Kirk. I must say your 0.8% experience sounds like a wild ride.

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The Perfect 10 Day Texas Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Plan the ultimate Texas road trip itinerary that includes national parks, hiking trails, and must-see cities around the Lone Star State.

Thinking about making your way south to visit Texas ? This epic 10-day Texas road trip shows you how you can experience the best that the Lone Star State has to offer.

The bulk of this 10-day itinerary is focused on central Texas where major highways form a meticulous triangle. By following this route you can experience major cities and state capitols, all the while learning just why everything is bigger in Texas!

Beginning in Dallas, you’ll venture even further by exploring Texas’ underrate nature and a past that continues to influence the wider country.

In reality, Texas is a massive state. You’d need much longer than 10 days to really see the entire state on an epic Texas road trip. So if you do have more time to spare, you can always add to this itinerary through many of the posts that we link to along the way.

But for the purpose of this Texas road trip itinerary, we’ll be focusing on the easily accessible highlights of Central Texas.

Find more ideas with our ultimate list of the best things to do in Texas !

Table of Contents

Where To Stay In Dallas + Fort Worth

Day 2 alternative – amarillo day trip from dallas, where to stay in austin, along the way to austin from dallas – waco, day 4 alternative – texas hill country, where to stay in san antonio, where to stay in corpus christi, where to stay in houston, where to stay in galveston, day 10 – return to dallas/houston, the wrap up, the perfect texas road trip itinerary.

Texas can be explored in a number of ways. From taking domestic flights to guided tours, this huge state has so much to offer. But a Texas road trip is a quintessential way to experience the Lone Star State!

During these 10 days, you’ll see charming small towns, magnificent cities, and natural beauty. This road trip in Texas is the perfect introduction to the second-largest state in the continental US!

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.

Day 1 & 2 – Dallas + Fort Worth

Day 1 of your Texas road trip begins in Dallas . At the top of a trio of highways that form a triangle through the heart of Texas, you’re well-placed to begin a road trip of a lifetime.

Here in Dallas, you’ll find a blend of art, history, nature, and sport. Add on a second day in Fort Worth, and you can explore the history of cattle ranches before dancing the night away at Billy Bob’s Texas.

Dallas Arts District

Encompassing the largest arts district in the nation, exploring the Dallas Arts District is the best way to start your journey through Triple D . Here, you’ll discover 20 blocks of galleries and museums, including the Dallas Museum of Art.

This thorough 3-hour tour of Dallas, not only takes you through the district but to the Klyde Warren Park and Memorial Plaza.

Sixth Floor Museum

In 1963, Lee Harvey Oswald entered the Texas School Book Depository and changed American history. Now the Sixth Floor Museum, learn all about this tragic event, including the hours before along with the emotional aftermath.

• Address:  411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202
• Hours:  10 am-5 pm (Wed-Sun)
• Price:  $18

Klyde Warren Park

Escape the bustle of downtown Dallas with a relaxing picnic at Klyde Warren Park. Not far from the Arts District, the park features a thriving food truck scene and regular events including movie nights.

• Address: 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201

Perot Museum of Nature & Science

A highlight of the Dallas Arts District, the Perot Museum of Nature & Science is a must-see. Featuring almost a dozen halls spread over five floors, you can dive into the topics of engineering, evolution, and earth.

• Address:  2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201
• Hours:  10 am-5 pm (Mon, Wed-Sat) 11 am-5 pm (Sun)
• Price:  $20

African American Museum

Set in Fair Park, the African American Museum is believed to be the first of its kind. Home to a thorough collection of artifacts, documents, and art, it’s an incredible way to explore the history and culture of African Americans.

• Address:  3536 Grand Ave, Fair Park, Dallas, TX 75210
• Hours:  11 am-5 pm (Tue-Fri) 10 am-5 pm (Sat)
• Price:  Free

Want to extend to 3 days in Dallas? Check out our Dallas Itinerary !

AT&T Stadium

On day 2 of your Texas road trip, it’s time to explore neighboring Fort Worth. Along the way, you’ll pass Arlington, home to the Dallas Cowboys and AT&T Stadium.

This spectacular stadium can seat 80,000 fans and houses what was once a record-breaking jumbotron. Go watch the Cowboys or sign up for a stadium tour.

Leave the car at home with this tour of AT&T Stadium that includes transportation.

• Address: 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011

Sundance Square

Spanning 35 blocks, Sundance Square represents the beating heart of Fort Worth. Old brick roads guide you by eye-catching architecture, including the historic Tarrant County Courthouse. Enjoy Texan cuisine, scratch your shopping itch, and stick around for the boisterous nightlife.

Kimbell Art Museum

Known as much for its architecture as its art, the Kimbell Art Museum quickly captures your imagination. Featuring art and antiquities from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, the galley covers a range of eras and styles with works from the likes of Picasso and Monet.

• Address:  3333 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107
• Hours:  10 am-5 pm (Tue-Thur, Sat) 12 pm-8 pm (Fri & Sun), closed Monday

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is a unique look into Texas’ connection to ranching and cowboys. Every day on Exchange Avenue, modern-day cowboys and cowgirls guide longhorns down the historic street. You can learn more about why at the Livestock Exchange.

Billy Bob’s Texas

Come sundown, the Stockyards is one of the best places for nightlife in Texas. Here, you’ll find Billy Bob’s Texas where you can go boot scootin’ crazy and indulge in some classic honky tonk!

• Address: 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, TX 76164

You can combine your Dallas experience with a day at Fort Worth on this guided tour .

At Hotel Crescent Court , you’ll feel right at home in your opulent setting before opening the ornate French doors for your own private balcony.

With cable TV, an on-site pool and a restaurant, Hampton Inn & Suites is a great place to recuperate as you explore downtown Dallas.

Close to nightlife and local culture, SOVA puts you in the heart of the action at a budget-friendly price.

Are you excited to explore Dallas and Fort Worth in greater depth? Read up on the complete list of things to do in Dallas right here.

This drive takes 5.5 hours from downtown Dallas.

Rather than spending a day in Fort Worth, start your day bright and early to make your way to Amarillo. As you drive into the more remote northwestern Texas, you’ll begin to see a different set of micro-cultures to go along with an increase in Stetsons, wild ponies, and dusty side roads.

Amarillo is a unique, quirky town that boasts a stop along historic Route 66 on top of being the gateway to Texas’ western frontier. It’s a great, historical stop on your Texas road trip!

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch is one of the most interesting roadside attractions in Texas. Right off I-40, the “ranch” features the frontends of 10 Cadillacs buried in the Texan dirt. Decorated with a kaleidoscopic use of spray paint, it’s one of those things you wouldn’t see anywhere but Amarillo.

• Address: 13651 I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124

Sixth Street Historic District

Home to 13 blocks of Route 66 fame, the Sixth Street Historic District dates back to the 1920s. The collection of old-time commercial buildings recalls the heyday of Amarillo and features Art Deco, Art Moderne, and Spanish Revival architecture.

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

A classic West Texas experience, the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum explores the history of the world’s most popular horse breed. Hands-on exhibits and events take you back in time to the height of cattle herding.

• Address: 2601 E Interstate Dr, Amarillo, TX 79104
• Hours: 10 am – 4 pm, Closed Sundays and Mondays

Day 3 & 4 – Austin

This drive takes 3 hours from downtown Dallas

Whether you’ve taken a day trip to Amarillo or decided to just stay in Dallas, next you’ll be heading south to Austin along I-35. We recommend stopping in Waco on the way, which we’ll provide more details about shortly.

Austin is a beautiful mix of arts, culture, and color mixed in with all the things you’ve come to know and love about Texas. Unique neighborhoods abound in Austin. Add on ample outdoor activities, it’s best to give yourself at least two nights to explore what Austin has to offer.

One way to split your 48 hours up is by separating the attractions on either side of the surging Colorado River.

Read Next: Find out what other destinations made our list of the best places to visit in Texas !

Downtown Austin

Towering skyscrapers, museums, street art, and mouthwatering Tex-Mex lies in wait in downtown Austin. Spend your morning at the Museum of Weird or the Mexic-Arte Museum before enjoying some takeout food along the nearby waterfront.

See the best of downtown, along with South Congress on this e-bike tour .

Texas State Capitol

Nearby is the Texas State Capitol looming proudly over the rest of the city. The 19th-century building is one of the tallest government buildings in the country, with a beautiful dome and spire reaching over 300 feet. Join a guided tour to learn more about its history and stunning architecture.

• Address: 1100 Congress Ave
• Hours: 7 am – 8 pm (opens at 9 am on weekends)

University of Texas

Home to the iconic Texas Longhorns, the University of Texas is the place to be in the fall. But there’s more to this campus than just football. Explore to find the captivating Blanton Museum of Art, along with the Natural Science Center and the Memorial Museum.

Sunset at Congress Avenue Bridge

There’s no better place to be in Austin at sunset than the Congress Avenue Bridge. Boasting the largest urban bat colony in the world, all 1.5 million of them depart once the sun touches the horizon.

Such is the heady number, it can take 45 minutes to finish all the while the sky burns bright amber.

Watch the event from the Colorado River on a kayak tour .

The Dirty Sixth

To burn the midnight oil in Austin head to the Dirty Sixth. This rowdy nightlife strip harbors bustling music venues, pumping clubs, and dim-lit bars, perfect for enjoying a drink and reflecting on the road trip thus far.

Rainey Street Historic District

The alternative to the Dirty Sixth is Rainey Street Historic District. The revitalized old district is more laid back than Sixth Street with high-end eateries, vibrant bars, and charming, old-school pubs.

Lady Bird Lake

Nurse your hangover with a trip to Lady Bird Lake. When in Austin, you’re never far from nature, and you’ll find beautiful walking and biking trails from which to explore. Stop at Zilker Park for downtown views or paddle out on the lake with your traveling crew.

South Congress

Now that you’re back to normal, head to South Congress the hotbed of the Keep Austin Weird movement. Filled with kitschy shops, street art, and teeming with food trucks, it’s the place to stay weird, enjoy sprawling murals, and feast on delightful cuisine.

The Cathedral of Junk

Speaking of weird, the Cathedral of Junk finishes in the first place. The gallery of junk is spread through a simple backyard featuring a conglomerate of random items from engines to spooky mannequins.

Travelers must call ahead before visiting.

• Address: 4422 Lareina Dr, Austin, TX 78745
• Cost: Donation based

McKinney Falls State Park

If you haven’t quenched your thirst for nature yet on this Texas road trip, head to McKinney Falls State Park. Venture along the Onion Creek Hike to see both the lower and upper falls. While only 10 miles from Austin, the change of pace and color along with the fresh air will have you ready to tackle the rest of this road trip.

Five-star opulence awaits at Hotel Saint Cecilia where you’ll enjoy, a la carte breakfast, an on-site pool, and free bike hire.

On Sixth Street, East Austin Hotel , is a 3-star hotel with cable TV, on-site restaurants, and close to the University of Texas.

In central, downtown Austin, the Firehouse Hostel provides a fun, atmosphere with modern amenities and close to nightlife.

Check out our post to learn more about the best things to do in Austin .

As you make your way from Dallas to Austin, get off Highway 35 for a quick stop in Waco. Home to the beautiful campus of Baylor University, you’ll find mouthwatering cuisine at local markets and plenty of kitschy shops to add to your road trip shopping bag.

Magnolia Market at the Silos

With your day now fully underway, replenish your energy stocks at Magnolia Market at the Silos. This small district features a handful of food trucks, along with the famous Silos Baking Co., to go along with the collection of live events, boutique stores, and a farmers’ market.

• Address: 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706
• Hours: 9 am – 6 pm (closed Sun)

Dr. Pepper Museum

America’s oldest major soda brand was founded right here in Waco. This museum features three floors packed with exhibits that take you along Dr. Pepper’s timeline. The historic bottling plant even includes a Liquid Lab where you can attempt to make your own soda.

• Address: 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Hours: 10 am – 5:30 pm (Mon to Sat) 12 pm – 5:30 pm Sun

Wooly Mammoth National Monument

Spanning five acres along the Bosque River, the Wooly Mammoth National Monument commemorates the discovery of a collection of Columbian mammoths found in Waco. The only discovery of its kind in the states, the monument provides a glimpse into the lives of the mammoths and the epic 3-decade excavation effort.

• Address: 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708
• Hours: 9 am – 5 pm
• Price: Free. Guided tours are $6

Read next: The Ultimate 3 Days In Austin, Texas Itinerary

A guided tour of Austin may leave you feeling satisfied with your experience in the state capitol. If that’s the case, pack your car with all your day trip necessities and head to the beautiful Texas Hill Country.

Featuring rolling hills, charming small towns, state parks, and elegant vineyards, it’s a lovely complement to Austin.

Pedernales Falls State Park

On route from Austin to the Texas Hill Country, stop off at Pedernales Falls State Park and soak up some natural beauty. One of the best things to do here is go for a swim in Hamilton Pool Preserve . This natural swimming hole is set in a dramatic canyon complete with limestone cliffs and a huge waterfall.

Other than Hamilton Pool, Pedernales Falls State Park has some awesome mountain biking and hiking trails.

Frederiksburg

There are a number of cozy German towns in the Texas Hill Country. The best? Frederiksburg. With eye-catching European architecture, Germanic cuisine, art galleries, and cute cafes, it’s a small town not to be missed.

Visit the Wineries

On this guided tour departing from Austin, venture into the countryside stopping at three award-winning wineries. Sample wines and local treats before exploring the beautiful, winding roads in a luxury van. This is a must for wine lovers going on Texas road trips!

Day 5 – San Antonio

This drive takes 1 hour and 20 minutes from downtown Austin.

After your visit to the Texas Hill Country, head south to San Antonio . Home to Spanish colonial missions and a thriving riverfront community, San Antonio thrives on surprising its visitors. This charming city is really a must-see on any road trip in Texas!

After a drive through the Texas Hill Country from Austin, be prepared to experience a unique city that balances prominent a Spanish past, with hints of the Wild West and modern Texan culture.

If you have time, extend your trip and spend 3 days in San Antonio !

San Antonio Missions

A National Historic Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the San Antonio Missions is a veritable gem that’s vital to America’s story. Covering five missions including the famous Alamo (San Antonio de Valero), you can learn all about the Spanish influence in this region.

The San Antonio Riverwalk

The San Antonio River Walk is the heart of local culture and hospitality. Home to river parades, the edges of the San Antonio River are lined with refined restaurants and chic bars.

This nighttime tour takes you on a River Walk Cruise with a visit to the Tower of the Americas.

Historic Market Square

Covering three blocks, the Historic Market Square is a great way to put on your tourist hat and shop, eat and drink. The square also boasts the largest Mexican market, known as El Mercado, in the States. Afterward, load up on fresh goods at the Farmer’s Market Plaza.

Natural Bridge Caverns

The Natural Bridge Caverns were discovered in the 1960s and are now the largest of their kind in the US. This guided experience allows you to skip the line and explore the vast cave network laden with stalactites and stalagmites.

Book your visit to the Natural Bridge Caverns on Get Your Guide !

Ranger Creek Brewing

It’s officially day 5 and halfway through your Texas road trip. Celebrate, reflect, and look forward to future adventures at Ranger Creek Brewing. Featuring more than just microbrews, you can enjoy small-batch craft whiskey before joining a guided tour.

• Address:  4834 Whirlwind Dr, San Antonio, TX
• Hours:  Monday – Thursday 10 am – 4 pm, Friday and Saturday 12 pm – 9 pm
• Cost:  Tours cost $15 and run every Saturday at 1 pm and 3 pm

Next to the River Walk, Hotel Emma offers guests a sun terrace with excellent views, a fitness center, and a pool, plus an on-site bar.

Wake up with a complimentary breakfast and wake up with a swim at Drury Plaza , before exploring San Antonio.

WaterWalk offers free daily breakfast, BBQ facilities, a fitness center, and a swimming pool all without hurting the wallet.

Day 6 & 7 – Corpus Christi

This drive takes 2 hours from downtown San Antonio.

After departing San Antonio on your Texas road trip, make your way south to Corpus Christi. Two days here may seem like a lot, but it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the captivating nature that South Texas has to offer.

Mustang Island

30 miles south of Corpus Christi is an 18-mile barrier island that is a boon for animal lovers and beach bums. Grab the towel and head to the wild sands of this protected area. Go for a swim in the Gulf, kayak along the rugged shorelines, and keep an eye out for the island’s 400 unique bird species.

Padre Island National Seashore

Established in 1962, the Padre Island National Seashore is the largest of its kind on earth. With 70 miles of untouched nature, explore a major bird migration spot and sea turtles or simply enjoy the views from the majestic coast.

South Padre Island

Contrasting to the previous day’s national seashore, the southern version offers a balance of humanity and natural wonders.

The beaches are delightful and there are family-friendly theme parks. However, you can’t beat a horse ride on the beach or a sunset yacht charter deep into the Gulf.

The Rio Grande

Staying in Corpus Christi provides you with an interesting opportunity to see the Rio Grande flow into the Gulf of Mexico. Visit the Las Palomas Wildlife area and be able to take a peak into the gulf coast of Mexico while enjoying one of the most southern points in mainland USA.

The Oceanside Retreat comes with beach views from your balcony, full kitchens, and walking distance to the shoreline.

Tru by Hilton provides upscale rooms with a swimming pool and fitness center all within a short drive of Mustang and North Padre Island.

The simple Knights Inn comes with beach views, cable TV, an outdoor pool, and BBQ facilities.

Day 8 – Houston

Next on your road trip in Texas, head up towards East Texas and spend some time in Houston . This diverse city has plenty of Texas history and nature to check out, plus there are a lot of great road trips to take from Houston !

Space Center Houston

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Texas, the Space Center Houston lives up to the hype. Dive into the history of space travel, visit Mission Control, and touch a rock that was returned from the moon! Finish up with exploring the thrilling Rocket Park.

• Address:  2101 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058
• Hours:  10 am-5 pm (Mon-Fri) 10 am-6 pm (Sat-Sun)
• Price:  $29.95

The Museum District

Home to 18 museums, (11 of which are free), Houston’s Museum District is as fascinating as it is budget-friendly. Highlights include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Menil Collection, and the Museum of Natural Science.

Buffalo Bayou Park

Enjoy some sunshine, a leisurely walk, and some cheese and crackers in Buffalo Bayou Park. This urban escape features a history water reservoir-turned-art-exhibit, plus old-time homes, beautiful, landscaped gardens, and some fun biking trails.

Find more things to do on this 3 Days In Houston Itinerary !

The La Colombe d’Or promises a memorable experience thanks to its Victorian decor, outdoor pool, and proximity to central Houston.

The Cambria provides road trippers with a central location and upscale amenities at a reasonable price.

At Wanderstay budget travelers will have a modern, themed hostel with spacious communal and dining areas.

Day 9 – Galveston

From Houston, head further into East Texas with a visit to the coastal city of Galveston . Here are the top things to do when you get there!

Stewart Beach

Not far from the Historic Pleasure Pier, Stewart Beach is the spot to get some sun, go for a swim, and enjoy your last full day. Snack stands will keep your thirst quenched and your hunger at bay, and be sure to rent an umbrella for some handy shade.

The historic Strand in Galveston is lined with elegant 19th-century architecture and where tales of the past ring along the walking path. Spread along five blocks, you’ll find the Opera House from 1894 and dozens of fun shops within ancient walls.

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is Texas’ answer to the one in Santa Monica. Soaring out into the Gulf, enjoy the 15-plus rides, family-fun arcades, and the token fair hot dog.

At the George Manor , you’ll be staying in a historic building with included breakfast and an on-site restaurant while being within walking distance of the beach.

On the Galveston Seawall, enjoy ocean views, on-site bar, and fitness center at Clarion Pointe .

By East Beach, Wingate by Wyndham , provides an excellent location, cable TV, and complimentary breakfast at low cost.

From Galveston, it’s time for the last leg of your epic Texas road trip. To complete the Texas “triangle” drive north for 4.5 hours along I-45. For a shorter trip, drop your rental car off in Houston, which is under an hour away.

Well, there you have it folks, the perfect Texas road trip. Over ten days, you’ll hit up some of the state’s best cities, learn about important history and indulge in some local culture. But rest assured, there’s plenty of time for fun, whether that be in Fort Worth, Austin, or Galveston.

Such is the size of Texas, there are still some notable absentees. A larger West Texas road trip would help you explore Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park. But iconic places like Big Bend and the surrounding national parks would require much more time.

But no matter how much time you spend in Texas, you’re sure to have a blast!

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

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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17 Fantastic Texas Road Trip Ideas (2024)

Fancy a drive?

If you’re feelin’ the need for speed, fire up the family speed wagon, rent a convertible for you and your best pal, and keep reading for some awesome Texas road trip ideas.

Jump in a car and head out of town to be transported to the old west, see the stars and sights in Texas’ magnificent Hill Country, or soak up some sun along the Texas coastline.

Follow the map below as your plan your next adventure and remember, it’s not the destination, it’s the journey.

Hey! Want more super helpful Texas guides? Check these out!

• 19 Incredible Texas AirBnbs
• 15 Amazing Texas Hotels
• 17 Best Beaches in Texas
• 25 Enchanting Castles in Texas
• 11+ Best Beach Towns in Texas
• 19 Best Things to Do in Austin, Texas
• 19 Fantastic Day Trips from Houston
• 21 Charming & Romantic Getaways in Texas for Couples
• 31 Fun Things to Do in El Paso, Texas

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How to get around Texas as a visitor

If you’re visiting and need to rent a car, we highly recommend Discover Cars where they find you the best car rental deals from all of the competitors (has saved us so much money!).

Don’t forget to pack…

For all of your road trip hacks, don’t forget to bring:

• roadside emergency kit: always have an emergency kit like this one on hand – this is our non-negotiable for road trips
• foldable car trash can: you’d be surprised how much trash you can accumulate in a road trip! Keep it all stored in this awesome foldable car trash can until you get to your next stop
• car power charger: keep all of those electronics charged using this extension for your power port, including 4 USB plugs and 2 regular plugs!

West Texas Road Trips

Starting at El Paso, there are lots of places in West Texas to visit, and with lots of open road.

It’s the perfect place to start your Texas road trip itinerary.

Just three hours’ drive is Marfa , and the infamous Prada Marfa art installation, which makes for a great Texas day trip .

Snap a pic in your best road trip outfit, or window shop on your way into town.  

It’s a small town with big appeal.

There’s a quirky art scene with lots of local galleries and places to pick up some one-of-a-kind Texas pottery.  

Grab a spot at the viewing area at dusk and debate what causes the infamous Marfa Lights.

Scientists can’t explain it, but maybe you’ll develop a new theory?

The lights are just a warmup for your next road trip destination – the McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis . 

2. McDonald Observatory

Just 45 minutes from Marfa and three hours from El Paso is the BEST star gazing in all the lone star state, really in all of the continental U.S.!

Book passes early for the Evening Sky Viewing and Star Party, $25 for adults and only $5 for children, with military discounts.

Held every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, spend two hours on the top of Mount Locke in the Davies Mountains with a guided open-air constellation tour and live telescope viewing in the amphitheater. 

You’ll see the darkest sky lit up by the brightest stars, which is a once in a lifetime experience.

3. Fort Davis Historic Site

If you’ve gotten into Fort Davis a bit early for the star party, check out the Fort Davis Historic Site.

A must-see for Texas history buffs and a step back in time for those looking to escape the everyday on their road trip.

The site is a former military post from the 1880s during the American Indian Wars, and the buildings have been restored to that time period.

Listen for the bugle call which sounds on a daily schedule to add some authenticity to your visit.

Learn about the famed Buffalo Soldiers, take a hike in frontier land, or kids can go on a scavenger hunt to become a Junior Park Ranger – even earning a ranger badge to wear proudly on the rest of your road trip!

Worked up an appetite?

Stop by the Fort Davis Drug Store , a legend known for its’ Southern fare.

The drug store turned full-service restaurant offers the most flavorful chicken fried steak you’ve ever tasted.

And it should be, as this place invented it!

That’s right, the Fort Davis Drug Store is home to the original recipe.

4. Big Bend Ranch State Park

Staying in West Texas, follow the renowned River Road, or El Camino del Rio through Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Talk about a scenic drive – this one has it all!

Travel along the 50-mile stretch between Lajitas and Presidio following the Rio Grande River to see wildlife and remote Texas prairie land.

Reach the “Big Hill” for an awe-inspiring picnicking spot overlooking the Chisos Mountains, Colorado Canyon, river and mountains straddling Mexico. 

With 238 miles of trails, this is an excellent time to stretch your legs with a hike.

The Park offers trails for varying levels, good for both families and those more experienced.

Closed Canyon is highly recommended as a short 1.5-mile moderate trek deep into a canyon.

Be careful about the 12 ft. drop!

Fill up your tank and bring all the essentials as the park is not near modern conveniences.

It takes about 4.5 hours to get there from El Paso or 1.5 hours from Marfa. 

Worth the drive if you’re looking to catch up with the great outdoors.

Best Texas Road Trips for Couples

In north Texas, you’ll find some ultimate road trips in Texas between Amarillo and Lubbock .

Only an hour and 45 minutes apart, with loads of stops in between, you’ll want to grab a friend for these next ideas.

5. Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo

Driving along Route 66, find your kicks with quick a stop at Cadillac Ranch .

It’s the quintessential road trip stop with a short but fun agenda.

Buried in the ground are 10 Cadillacs from a 1974 sculptural art installation.

Graffiti artists have been leaving their own mark on these rusty frames ever since, causing a Jackson Pollock like drip effect.

It’s the perfect setting for your desert meets urban photo session.

Free to enter anytime, but a bit of a hike to get there from the road, you can BYO-paint or purchase a can from the gift shop. 

The Cadillac RV Park and Gift Shop is located 2 minutes away and has kitsch galore – souvenirs, t-shirts, snacks, and plenty of Caddy themed merch for your own vehicle.

And with friendly staff, clean restrooms, and everything at reasonable prices, it’s the ultimate roadside pit stop.

6. The Big Texas Steak Ranch and Brewery

On the other side of Amarillo, don’t miss the Big Texas Steak Ranch & Brewery .

Being in the car all day sure does work up an appetite.

Are you up to the 72-oz. steak challenge?

7. Will Rogers Range Riders Rodeo

This area of Texas is well-known for being horse country, with plenty of places to stop for a trail ride. 

Why not be a little more adventurous and plan ahead for a truly Texas experience – a rodeo!

Held on Amarillo Rodeo Grounds, the Will Rogers Range Riders Rodeo occurs the last weekend in June with day tickets at $15 (under 12 free) or a weekend pass for $40. 

Park on the grounds and strap in to watch a full day of steer wrestling, bronc and bull riding, and barrel racing.

Only in Texas!

8. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Time now to switch your ride for something a bit different – choose either horses or a Jeep.

Rent your own horse for the day at Palo Duro Riding Stables or Palo Duro Canyon Jeep and Horseback Rides.  

Both are rated highly for their care of the horses and love of the land.

Costs vary depending on size of the party and how long you’d like to be out but count on a starting rate of $35 per person.

Kids must be of a certain age and weight to ride.

Guided rides on horseback or tours in a Jeep are available.

The Park also offers hiking trails for those who prefer to travel on foot. 

Plan your route as there are many options for length and climbing challenge. 

Be sure to lather up with sunscreen and bring water as the Texas sun can be brutal here.

9. Bar Z Winery

Need some refreshments after your hike?

Next stop is Canyon, near Palo Duro, where you’ll want to grab a seat for some of the area’s best wine from local grapes.

On a nice day, select a flight to taste outside, where the beautiful Texas landscape matches the warm hospitality.

Head indoors to kick your feet up on the couches and chill with your favorite person, watch whatever national Texas team is playing that night, or just vibe to the live music.

Either way, it will be a memorable moment on your dreamy Texas road trip.

Best Family Road Trips from Texas

10. wichita falls.

Blink and you might miss this pitstop a little under two hours northwest of Dallas/Fort Worth.

But what it lacks in size it makes up for in places worth stopping for on the itinerary.

First up, the “ world’s littlest skyscraper ” found at 701 La Salle.

This small building has an interesting beginning, involving a businessman that skipped town with his investor’s money after promising a 40-story skyscraper.

Find out what happened when you visit, as it’s an interesting business lesson to ponder when you hop back on the road. 

Sitting on the Wichita River, find Lucy Park to give the kids time to stretch their legs, have a picnic or jump in the pool. 

There’s even a man-made waterfall for some cooling off time.

Originally a cattle and oil hub, today Wichita Falls boasts an acclaimed arts and culture scene with two love theatre troupes and a ballet school.

Check schedules before you venture out to catch a performance while you’re in town.

11. Nacogdoches

Nacogdoches is a sweet spot equally situated between Dallas and Houston , worth a swing by on your way in either direction.

This is the oldest town in Texas with lots to do as you pass through.

Step back in time at Millard’s Crossing Historic Village , with a tour through an 1800’s pioneer village featuring wood and leather crafts makers, and blacksmithing during certain months.

Kids enjoy the log homes, displays with authentic artifacts, and interacting with the shopkeepers for a turn the clocks back experience sure to keep them talking for hours back in the car.

Visit during the Blueberry Jam music festival or drive through the impressive lights display during the holidays.

A great place to refresh after hiking or exploring any of the three surrounding national forest areas.

South Texas offers loads of fun Texas road trips around San Antonio and Houston.

12. Banderas

An hour north of San Antonio is the self-proclaimed Cowboy Capital of the World, Banderas .

Known as the place where Apache and Comanche Indians fought the Spanish Conquistadors, then later becoming a staging area for the last great cattle drives in the 1800’s, this lively town is home today to many National Rodeo Champions.

First, stop by the Visitors Center for a map of scenic drives and rides found throughout the area.

They’ve done all the work for you, just bring a bike or car and choose your own adventure.

One of the favorite drives is called the Three Sisters or Twisted Sisters, which follows winding roads along picturesque vistas, limestone paths, valleys, and rivers.

You may just plan an entire day for this one postcard-worth route.

Back in Banderas, take your pick of activities between horseback riding, golf, hunting, rodeos, shopping, wineries, or dancing to live music played on the main street every weekend.

Nearby dude ranches make for an interesting overnight activity for the family or group of friends.

Count this stop as one of the best family road trips in Texas.

13. Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is just over an hour northwest of San Antonio , but full of outings for everyone.

First stop is the Pioneer Museum , one of the best museums in Texas , which tells the story of the German settlers and features displays on the Hill Country heritage through a self-guided tour on the 3.5-acre property.

Price is $15-20 per person, but the staff are knowledgeable and friendly.

There’s also plenty of Fredericksburg tours to uncover, including the Fredericksburg trolley tour which is a must for families and the Fredericksburg Winery Tour .

If you’re still keen for more, next visit the National Museum of the Pacific War.

This vast space was voted as the fifth-best history museum in the United States by USA Today readers in 2020.

Strolling through the grounds expect to see WWII exhibits and artifacts, including a highlight for history buffs – a recreated combat zone.

Reenactments take place on the ground throughout the year.

Book your tickets in advance for $16 per person, with discounts for children, seniors and military. 

Ultimate Texas Road Trip Ideas

14. urban wine trail.

Hire a designated driver for this next road trip idea.

Consider a group trip roaming through the Urban Wine Trail , which includes 50 wineries located throughout Texas Hill Country, 10 of which are in downtown Fredericksburg alone.

Enjoy a glass to go while you shop and stroll along main street, on your way to the next local watering hole.

Moving further into north Texas, add Waco to the list of destinations for your journey across the state. 

Equi-distant between Austin and Dallas (making it a great day trip from Austin ), this Heart of Texas spot has lots more to offer outside of the famous Magnolia Silos (which offers fun for everyone and you should definitely check out on one of these Fixer Upper tours !)

Families love the Dr Pepper Museum, the original home of America’s favorite cherry flavored soda. 

Make the most of your time with one of the soda themed experiences – make-your-own flavor, create your own tasting (soda this time, not wine), or check out the paranormal tour if you’re bold.

These extras range in coast form $10 up to $30 per person, with limitations on age for the paranormal experience.

Kids love being soda scientists and creating their own concoction.

No need for another souvenir when they can bring home their very own bottle.

Last, travel back to the wild west with a visit to the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum .

Located on the Brazos River, fans of the nation’s oldest law enforcement agency won’t want to miss this stop to learn more about this storied time in American history.

Admission is $8 and the gift shop has plenty of exceptional gifts for anyone that couldn’t hop in the car with you for a quick getaway.

Personal favorite?

The Texas state flag belt buckle. 

16. Corpus Christi

Two hours from San Antonio and three from Houston, Corpus Christi is a go to destination for road tripping and one of the best places to visit in Texas .

Loads of sea life exploration with a visit to the Texas State Aquarium , or dolphin excursions.

Leave the car behind and book the sunset tour with Dolphin Watch Nature Tours or this incredible glowing kayak tour .

Best prices in the area for a trip out on the water to view all kinds of sea animals.

They offer family-friendly day tours too, each costing an average of $35 per person.

Lots of options for other activities including jet ski rentals, kayaking, hiking, boating, fishing and more.

Add this one to your schedule for a chance to soak up the sun as you cruise around Corpus Christi Bay.

17. Texas Coastline

While you’re there, drive along the Texas coastline, stopping at any number of Texas beach towns along the way.

From South Padre Island up to Galveston , each sandy spot offers a different place to cool off with a dip in the water, climb up lighthouses for a scenic Gulf view, or stop at a local seafood shack for some of the freshest catch of the day you’ll rave about for years to come.

Feeling inspired to hop in the car and go?

Pack a cooler, fill up, roll the windows down and coast to any of these destinations for a memorable road trip.

Don’t just drive through Texas, stop and learn along the way.

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The 6 most spectacular road trips in Texas

Aug 28, 2023 • 8 min read

Texas is the perfect state for a road trip filled with BBQ breaks © monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images

Texas is big – very big. But Austin, Dallas, San Antonio and El Paso are easy-to-reach launchpads for scenic road trips across the state. Just be ready for some lonely roads, particularly in West Texas.

These are six of our favorite road trips in the Lone Star State , from the kitschy charms of Route 66 in the Panhandle Plains to the windswept beaches of the Gulf Coast. Top tip? Brake for dance halls and BBQ joints – wherever you are.

1. Hill Country

Best scenic road trip Austin–San Antonio; 200 miles 

The Hill Country is one of the prettiest regions in Texas, especially in spring when wildflowers bloom along the roadside. In Austin , soak up the live music and food truck scene – and watch the bats swoop out from beneath the South Congress Bridge – before heading west to Dripping Springs. Dubbed the Gateway to the Hill Country, this welcoming small town is home to Jester King Brewery , Treaty Oak Distilling and Hamilton Pool Preserve . Wine country begins here too.

Swing north to the Lyndon B Johnson National Historic Park , which spotlights the 36th president’s local roots across two historic towns: Johnson City and Stonewall. Continue north to hike up the 425ft granite dome – part of an enormous underground batholith – at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area then dip south to explore antique shops and museums in German-settled Fredericksburg. After walking the caverns in Boerne, conclude in San Antonio , where The Alamo and the gorgeous River Walk anchor downtown.

Planning tip:  Get your Texas playlist ready with these tunes: New San Antonio Rose by Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys; Luckenbach, Texas by Waylon Jennings; On the Road Again by Willie Nelson; Amarillo by Morning by George Strait; What I Like about Texas by Jerry Jeff Walker & Gary P Nunn; Miles and Miles of Texas by Asleep at the Wheel; El Paso by Marty Robbins; Waltz Across Texas by Ernest Tubbs; Corpus Christi Bay by Robert Earl Keen; God Blessed Texas by Little Texas.

2. Big Bend Loop

Best off-the-beaten-path road trip El Paso–El Paso; 900 miles

The Big Bend region of West Texas isn’t the middle of nowhere, but it might be next door. Murals pack a visual punch in El Paso , a scrappy starting point for exploring West Texas . A drive east through the high desert leads to remote Guadalupe Mountains National Park , home of the highest peak in Texas. Cool off in the spring-fed pool at Balmorhea State Park then settle in for world-class stargazing at the McDonald Observatory in tiny Fort Davis.

A battered school desk attracts intrepid hikers to the top of Hancock Hill in Alpine, which qualifies as a metropolis around here. Swing through Marathon before driving into the heart of Big Bend National Park . Stargazing, hiking in the Chisos Mountains, and admiring Santa Elena Canyon are just a few of the highlights here.

The Rio Grande feels like your sidekick while driving scenic FM 170 west through Big Bend Ranch State Park . With minimalist art, mysterious lights, and tasty Marfalafel on offer, the city of Marfa is the right kind of weird. And just as you think you’re driving back into normal on your return to El Paso, Prada Marfa rises up from the desert to say, “Not quite yet.”

3. Houston & the Gulf Coast

Best road trip for beaches Houston–South Padre Island; 600 miles 

A drive along the Gulf Coast delivers birdwatching, kayaking, coastal conviviality and oh-so-many beaches. Immerse yourself in Houston's culture and cuisine, then pull over for Space Center Houston – where the tram passes the Apollo Mission Control Center – on your drive to the coast. The first stop on the Gulf is Galveston , a barrier island where sunny beaches and old-school Southern charm reign supreme. Whooping cranes winter at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge while galleries and restaurants shine in pedestrian-friendly Rockport.

Kick back in winsome Port Aransas, a small beach town with a big personality. Escape the crowds at Padre Island National Seashore , where you can kayak and windsurf and also drive on the beach. Explore museums and the aquarium in Corpus Christi , then drive south for an end-of-trip embrace of festive beach living on South Padre Island. Although it might be a touch too festive during spring break.

Local tip:  Let the Texas landscape surprise you. No less than 35 ecoregions exist here. Contrary to stereotypes, white-sand beaches, soaring pine forests and snowcapped mountains are all part of the picture. Indigenous birds, mammals and alligators outnumber the head of cattle here. All told, the natural attractions are a major reason to visit Texas.

4. Route 66 & the Texas Panhandle Loop

Best road trip for American kitsch Amarillo–Amarillo; 450 miles 

This windswept drive tackles the Mother Road and the Panhandle Plains with breezy, and we mean breezy, aplomb. About halfway between Chicago and Los Angeles on the old Route 66, Amarillo is a cattle town with a kitschy side – just step inside the neon-fronted Big Texan Steak Ranch . As numerous billboards attest, diners can earn a free 72oz steak – if they can eat it in an hour!

On your drive east on Route 66, pull over for the Leaning Water Tower and the World's Tallest Cross in Groom, the barbed wire museum in McLean and the U-Drop Inn in Shamrock – it was the model for Ramone’s Body Shop in the Pixar movie Cars .

Drop south across the plains to explore the magnificent Palo Duro Canyon , the second-largest canyon in the US behind the Grand Canyon. Lubbock is home to the Buddy Holly Center , which honors the rockabilly legend, and the fantastic Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum . Drive north to complete the loop at Cadillac Ranch , where 10 Cadillacs are buried hood-first on the windy plains on the western outskirts of Amarillo. Route 66 runs for 177 miles across Texas, often overlapping with I-40.

5. Fort Worth, Dallas & Northeast Texas

Best road trip for quintessential Texas Fort Worth–Jefferson; 250 miles 

Stockyards, museums, oil derricks and outdoor adventure. This road trip is all Texas. Explore the historic stockyards in Fort Worth , a stopover for cattle drives on the Chisholm Trail, then dive into art and history in Dallas , a posh oil industry hub. The city is also home to the Sixth Floor Museum , which delves into the assassination of JFK here in 1963.

From Dallas, drive east through Northeast Texas , a region known as the Piney Woods due to its extensive pine forests. Roses and spring azaleas bring manicured charm to Tyler while oil wells bring money to mind in Kilgore. The beauty gets wild – and slightly eerie – among the moss-covered cypress trees in swampy Caddo Lake , which branches off into bayous and tributaries ready-made for adventurous paddlers. Unwind in charismatic Jefferson, a wild riverboat town in the 1800s now known for its Greek-revival homes, brick streets, and gentile Southern spirit.

Local tip: Stretch your legs in Dallas. The major art and history sights are concentrated blissfully close together, something you'll appreciate given the overall sprawl. Downtown museums and Arts District attractions nearby are in areas easily traversed either by walking or taking the McKinney Ave trolley.

6. Texas BBQ and Dance Halls

Best road trip for a rollicking fun time Austin–Gruene; 100 miles, 350 miles if you take the detour

Two things Texas does extremely well? BBQ and dance halls. This road trip may not be the most scenic or the most direct, but it is a blast. Bring a portable chair and rest your legs while waiting in the line at Franklin BBQ in Austin – you’re gonna need ‘em at full strength later with all the two-stepping going on at the legendary Broken Spoke. Head west to the Hill Country for dancing at Mercer Dance Hall in Driftwood then dig in the next day at Salt Lick , where the indecisive should go for the family-style all-you-can-eat platter.

Swing southeast for a BBQ quadruple-threat in Lockhart. Designated the BBQ capital of Texas by the state legislature, it’s home to Black’s Barbecue , Kreuz Market (don’t ask for sauce or a fork), Chisholm Trail Bar-B-Q and Smitty’s Market . When your belly is full, it's just a 45-minute drive southwest to the worn wooden dance floor at Gruene Hall . Open since 1878, it’s the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas. Music nightly. Beer cold. Happiness assured.

Detour: It’s a 75-mile haul northwest from Driftwood to Llano for brisket at Louie Mueller, which opened in 1949, and at Cooper’s Old Time Pit BBQ, which opened in 1963. But hey, they’re Texas classics and worth a trip if you’re serious about your BBQ. Stop by Enchanted Rock State Natural Area on your drive south to tiny Luckenbach. Made famous by Willie and Waylon’s catchy tune, Luckenbach is home to another beloved dance hall. It’s also a laid-back place to sip a beer under the oak trees on a lazy afternoon.

This article was first published Nov 12, 2020 and updated Aug 28, 2023.

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15 Fun Texas Road Trips For Your Bucket List

April 27, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Searching for the best Texas road trip? We’ve got you covered! As the largest state in the continental US, there is so much to do in Texas. This can be quite overwhelming for many tourists and locals alike! There is no need to worry, though, as we have compiled a list of some of the best road trips in Texas.

Texas is best known for its barbecue and its proud history. However, there is so much more that this great state has to offer. Whether your passion lies in majestic waterfalls, scenic drives, or anything in between, Texas is the state for you!

With so much to see and do in this state, it is very easy to get lost. That is why we have categorized each road trip by theme, so you are able to see exactly the sights you want to see. So grab your travel partners, hop in the car, and go find your perfect Texas road trip.

Small Towns in Texas Road Trip

• Marble Falls
• Nacogdoches

Texas is well known for sprawling cities like Dallas and Houston, but this state is full of hidden gems. Texas is littered with cute small towns , and this Texas road trip will take you right through the best of them!

The small towns in Texas each have their own unique personality. Wimberley is the perfect chic spots for nature lovers, while Nacogdoches has the quintessential Texas small town feel. Each small town feels like its own little world, and this is the perfect road trip for those who want to stray from the beaten path.

Starting out of Austin, this road trip has relatively short round trip time of 11 hours. This gives you ample time to explore these small towns to their fullest. The Small Towns in Texas Road Trip is one of the best road trips from Austin if you want to explore the more local side of Texas.

This is truly one of the Best Things To Do In Texas to put on your Texas bucket list!

Haunted Texas Road Trip

• Yorktown Memorial Hospital

With all of the history in Texas, there’s bound to be a few haunted hide outs. There have many instances of the strange and unnatural in the Lone Star state. If you’re brave enough for a little night driving on this Texas road trip, you might see something you can’t explain.

Come to Lobo to experience a true Texas ghost town. This once thriving farm city was left abandoned after the area dried up. Terlingua is also a famous ghost town in Texas. Complete with a ghost town cemetery, this is one city you might want to bring a friend, or a safety blanket, to.

However, Texas is not just ghost towns. The Yorktown Memorial Hospital is your textbook haunted, abandoned hospital. If ghosts are not your thing, Marfa may be a cute small town, but it is home to some close encounters of the third kind. The Marfa Lights were a serious of mysterious glowing orbs seen in the west Texas sky.

Texas Waterfalls Road Trip

• Spring Falls
• Gorman Falls
• Pedernales Falls
• Dripping Springs Falls

While waterfalls are not the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Texas, the state boasts some of the prettiest waterfalls in the country. The many rivers flowing through Texas combing with a deceptively hilly terrain to create some majestic waterfalls. Start in Dallas, and work your way down to Austin with this amazing Texas road trip.

Much of the water in Texas is spring-fed, making it exceptionally blue and cool year-round. This water looks especially nice cascading down a smooth or directly off a cliff. One this road trip, you will be able to visit all kinds of waterfalls. From the sheer drops of spring falls to the gentle decline of Pedernales, Texas has it all.

The waterfalls might be the stars of the show, but there is much more to this road trip. Many of these waterfalls reside in beautiful state parks. Take some time to tour these parks and enjoy one of the most beautiful road trips from Dallas.

Coastal Texas Road Trip

• Corpus Christi
• South Padre Island

Let the top down and take a drive down the iconic Texas coast. There are many fantastic cities and towns along the Texas coast that are perfect for a leisurely trip. The beaches along this trip are perfect for soaking up some sun, or taking a relaxing dip in the water.

Thanks to the warm Gulf of Mexico currents, the Texas coast has some of the warmest water in the US. This is perfect for those who can’t quite get time off in the heat of the summer. Ditch the huge crowds in Miami and cruise along one of the most relaxing road trips in Texas.

The cities and towns along this trip are also very unique. From the giant glass pyramids of Galveston to the amusement park of South Padre Island, there is so much to do in these cities. Be sure to take some time and explore the vibrant cities along the beautiful Texas coast.

Texas National Park Road Trip

• Guadalupe Mountains National Park
• Fort Davis National Historic Site
• Big Bend National Park
• San Antonio Missions National Historic Park

One of the most naturally beautiful states in the US Texas boasts fourteen individual lands managed by the US National Parks Service, including two national parks . Both of these parks are on the west side of Texas, making this west Texas road trip a must for all nature lovers.

Texas may be better known for its prairies and deserts, but the state features one of the most stunning mountain ranges in the US. The stunning Guadalupe Mountain Range is the perfect combination of desert and mountain. Watching the sun set over this mountain range is most certainly a bucket list item.

These national sites and parks are also perfect for exploring. There are many hiking, biking, and walking trails in each one of these stops. Be sure to take your time and soak in the natural beauty of Texas.

Epic Nature Road Trip

• Bayou Big Bend Collection and Gardens
• Caverns of Sonora
• Santa Elena Canyon

This is one of the most involved Texas road trips on this list. The lengthy road trip time is more than justified, though, as this trip takes you along a greatest hits tour of nature in Texas.

Start in Houston and visit the Bayou Big Bend Collection and Gardens. Here you will be able to see much of the wildlife and flora specific to this great state. After this warm up, you will be ready to see all of the natural wonders of Texas.

This trip has too many highlights to list. However, El Capitan stands out as one of the most awe inspiring spots in Texas. The peak of this formation seems to rise up out of nowhere to pierce the Texas sky. If you are in the area want to see the natural beauty of Texas, be sure to embark on one of the most stunning road trips from Houston.

Abandoned Places Road Trip

• Patient Buildings at Terrell State Hospital
• Baker Hotel
• Walnut Ridge Mansion
• The Rig Theatre

Step in to Texas history without the need for a museum. These abandoned buildings will transport you back into the old days of Texas. This eerie road trip is equal parts fascinating and spine chilling.

Who doesn’t love an abandoned hospital? Terrell State Hospital closed in 1985, but it still serves the public as nightmare fuel. However, you can go during the day to get a much more calming glimpse of what hospitals were like in the past.

The other spots along this Texas road trip highlight the everyday aspects of early life in the state. From old hotels to movie theatres of yesteryear, this road trip will let you peek through the curtain of history. Museums often gloss over mundane aspects of history like this, so visiting these sites will be very refreshing for history lovers.

Texas Hill Country Road Trip

• Ennis Bluebonnet Trail
• Willow City Loop

Bluebonnets are the official state flowers of Texas, and it is clear to see why. There is nothing more Texan than a field covered in the beautiful Texas Bluebonnet flower. These flowers grow abundantly in the hill country region of the state, making this Texas hill country road trip is full of the best places to see bluebonnets .

Texas is very proud of their bluebonnets, and will take any opportunity to show them off! There is actually a rumor that it is illegal to pick these flowers, since they are sacred to Texans. This is not true, however, it is illegal to trespass on private property to hunt for these flowers.

One of the highlights of this road trip is the Willow City Loop. Within the already beautiful Willow City there is a famous 13 mile trail perfect for viewing bluebonnets. This is one of the most scenic drives in Texas, and provides some of the best bluebonnet viewing in the state.

Texas Castles Road Trip

• Bishop’s Palace
• Newman’s Castle
• Falkenstein Castle
• Castle Avalon

Castles in Texas? Finding a fairytale castle in Texas seems as likely as finding a fish in the Sahara desert. However, this state features an abundance of beautiful castles, as long as you know exactly where to look.

Start at the scenic Bishop’s Palace. This castle is located right on the water, giving it a pristine view of the Gulf of Mexico. Dating back to 1892, this wonderful historic castle offers tours through its dazzling three story layout.

The other castles along this list mix everything you love about your favorite fairytale castle. Newman’s Castle features a moat and drawbridge. Falkenstein Castle features historically accurate German flair and is one of the best castles in Texas. Castle Avalon greets you with a fantastical two story gatehouse. Texas may not conjure images of fantasy castles, but these ones are definitely worth a visit.

Texas Spirits Road Trip

• Hill Country Distillers
• Shiner Brewery
• Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery
• Firestone & Robertson Distilling Co.

Texas produces some of the finest drinks in the entire US, and this road trip will take you along some of the finest breweries and distilleries the state has to offer. If you want to drink in all the state has to offer, this boozy Texas road trip is perfect for you.

Some of the finest distilleries in the US can be found in Texas. With a wide range of drinks that can cater to any palette, Texas is perfect for a boozy road trip. Deep Eddy specializes in fantastic flavored vodka, Firestone and Robertson supplies authentic Texas whiskey and bourbon, and Hill Country Distillers offers fantastic moonshine.

This trip also takes you into the town of Shiner, Texas. The birthplace of Shiner beers, this brewery offers extremely interactive tours. Complete with multimedia experiences and a “big new honky-tonk bar,” this brewery is not one you want to miss.

Texas International Road Trip

• Fredericksburg
• Castroville

People of every race and nationality have come to Texas looking to start a new life. This has been great for Texas, as each new addition to the state has added to the broad identity of Texas. There are many cities and towns within Texas that make it feel like you are entering a whole new country.

The story of Texas is composed of many different cultures. West is Czech, Dublin is Irish, Fredericksburg is German, and Castroville is French. Each city offers a new experience, and this Texas road trip is perfect for those who do not have the time to traverse Europe.

Each of these stops offers unique highlights that you must check out. There is a roadside stop called Slovacek’s in West that serves as an amazing Czeck bakery. Walking through downtown Castroville transports you to a quaint town in the wine country of France. While in these cities, be sure to talk to locals to find the best places to stop to get the full cultural experience.

Everything’s Bigger in Texas Road Trip

• World’s Largest Cowboy Boots
• World’s Largest Pecan
• Buc-ee’s New Braunfel
• Moontower Pizza Bar

Everything is bigger in Texas! This state is well known for it’s never ending pursuit to be the largest. From arbitrary records to functional size, Texas features all kinds of colossal attractions worth visiting.

Texas features many “World’s Largest” attractions, and they are very serious about them. The World’s Largest Pecan was briefly leapfrogged by a rival pecan statue, and the state of Texas quickly came together to snuff out this competition. The World’s Largest Cowboy Boots are a bit more safe, though, as no one has even attempted to compete with this 35-foot-tall pair of footwear.

There are also many other, more functional giant attractions in Texas. Buc-ee’s is an iconic gas state and convenience store in Texas, and its giant New Braunfel location is also the world’s largest convenience store. Moontower Pizza serves the world’s largest commercially available pizza, perfect for a road trip of you and your 40 closest friends.

Texas Museum Road Trip

• Space Center Houston
• Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
• Bullock Texas State History Museum

Texas is a treasure trove of science and history, and these wonderful museums let you explore it all. This state is more than happy to show off their accomplishments in science, art, and history. This is one of the best Texas road trip ideas for anyone who has a passion for learning.

Texas boasts a very unique history. The state has been occupied by the French, Spanish, and Mexican, and even spent a brief period as its own country. This history is on full display at both the Bullock State History Museum as well as the Alamo.

The Space Center Houston shows off Texas’ deep ties with NASA, as well as highlighting the technological advancements in space travel. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is the perfect place to view works from throughout the world, from antiquity to the present. This museum road trip is perfect to experience the nerdier side of Texas.

Texas Springs Road Trip

• Hamilton Pool Preserve
• Barton Springs Pool
• Jacob’s Well Natural Area
• Hancock Springs

Some of the finest natural springs in the US can be found in Texas. Natural springs are known for their consistent temperature year-round, which is perfect for cooling off on a summer day or warming up on a winter’s day.

Many of these springs are very popular swimming holes for the locals. Barton Springs is a prime spot for the residents of Austin to cool off. Many of them are very friendly and will gladly fill you in on some of the hidden gems of the city.

Many of the other springs are less tourist destination and more natural wonder. Jacob’s Well is the second-largest completely submerged cave in Texas and is one of the most epic places in the south . Along with swimming, Jacob’s Well is a great place for hiking and bird watching. It is also possible to go on an hour-long tour with a naturalist guide.

Texas BBQ Road Trip

• Tejas Chocolate + BBQ
• Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue
• Harris Bar-b-que
• Hutchins BBQ

When you think of barbecue, you are most likely thinking of Texas barbecue. This state is well known for smoky brisket and delicious pulled pork. It is no wonder why barbecue heavyweights like Houston and Austin are some of the best food cities in the south .

This trip starts at Tejas Chocolate + BBQ. This specialty shop pairs smoky brisket with rich chocolate truffles to create a unique experience that you won’t soon forget. Be sure to save some room, though, as this Texas road trip is sure to leave you with a full stomach.

All of these barbecue restaurants boast awards too numerous to mention, and each one comes with its own unique specialty. Stanley’s does an excellent pork rib dish, Harris Bar-b-que serves iconic Texas brisket, and Hutchins invented the uniquely Texan dish called a “Texas Twinkie,” which is a brisket-stuffed jalapeño wrapped in bacon.

It is easy to feel overwhelmed with all there is to do in Texas. This state has everything from natural wonders, to delicious food, to man made marvels. There road trips in Texas will be your guide through this amazing state and help you experience the wonder of Texas.

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Texas Travel 365

The Perfect Texas Road Trip Itinerary You Should Steal

August 23, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365 //   5 Comments

Are you trying to figure out the perfect Texas road trip for your next United States adventure? Whether you live in Texas and want to see more of your state or want to visit each state in depth, Texas is a place to consider for your next American road trip. This Texas itinerary will give you plenty of ideas on how to spend your time in the largest of the continental U.S. states.

Texas might not be at the top of many people’s lists of the most beautiful or interesting U.S. destinations, but they would be wrong to dismiss the Lone Star State. Texas is perfect for anyone into history, art and culture, natural wonders, or simply having a fun time. There are a ton of national and state parks, locations significant in United States history, and other unique attractions you can only find in Texas.

Begin Your Texas Road Trip By Flying Into Austin

Fly or drive into Austin, the state’s capital, to start your road trip of Texas. Though, if you are driving from a nearby state, feel free to start this Texas road trip at any of the other stops that might be closer to you.

If you plan on flying in, make sure to check Skyscanner ahead of time to find the best airfare. Most likely, you will land at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport where there are plenty of rental car options for you to choose from. Pick the car best suited for your needs, then head into the city of Austin.

If you think you need some extra help planning your road trip, there are plenty of apps you can download. Check out our recommendations here !

Don’t forget to check out our Detailed Road Trip Packing List so you don’t forget any essentials for your trip!

Stop 1: Austin

Austin is the capital of Texas and is a city known for its fun, hip atmosphere mixed with a culture devoted to music and art. The city’s slogan is famously “Keep Austin Weird” due to its diverse and eccentric nature. Austin has embedded creativity and art so well into its urban development, that it is part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

There are plenty of activities to do here that are bound to excite and leave you craving more. You will need at least one or two nights in Austin to fully embrace it. You will have a blast bar hopping, testing out cool food trucks, exploring expansive parks, and soaking in the vibe of the city.

Things to Do

Admire the state capitol.

Standing in the heart of Austin is Texas’s State Capitol. Built in 1888 out of pink granite, this domed building is even taller than the U.S. Capitol building in Washington D.C. The beautiful building is worth a visit and is free to tour as well.

Visit Some of the Amazing Museums

Austin is full of different types of museums for people of many interests. The Bullock Texas State History Museum hosts exhibits focused on the history of Texas. Found on the University of Austin’s campus, the Blanton Museum of Art is home to thousands of pieces of art from the past centuries. Art and history lovers alike will want to see the Mexic-Arte Museum, which is dedicated to Mexican and Latin American art and culture.

Swim at the Barton Springs Municipal Pool

If you feel like cooling down after a day of exploring the city, try taking a dip at the Barton Springs Municipal Pool. This natural pool is fed by a spring and remains at a cool 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The bright, green water is surrounded by trees creating a calm setting to relax in. The pool is found within Zilker Park and there is a small fee to enter, but it is so worth it to swim is such a pretty location.

Enjoy a Concert or Music Festival

You can’t visit the Live Music Capital of the World without taking time to enjoy some of the live music that can be found throughout the city. You can spend the night on Sixth Street hopping from bar to bar enjoying the live music at each. Or head over to the Moody Theater for the famous Austin City Limits, which has featured a variety of musical artists over the years. If you are in Austin at the right time, you can attend the South By Southwest music festival.

Where to Stay

Affordable:  Days Inn by Wyndham Austin . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  The Carpenter Hotel . Check Rates:  Booking.com

Stop 2: Hamilton Pool

The Hamilton Pool Preserve is just outside of Austin and makes for a great day trip from the city since it is only about a 45-minute drive west. The oasis-like pool is a lake-turned popular swimming hole and features a magnificent 50-foot waterfall. A cool carved-out cave behind the waterfall and circling a large portion of the pool provides a shady area to avoid the sun in between swimming on your visit. Know that there is no lifeguard on duty, so swim at your own risk.

The area also includes hiking trails and picnic tables and is a great place for bird watching. Before you visit, make sure to make an online reservation. Try to time your visit after a rainfall to ensure the waterfall is flowing as it does dry to a trickle at times. Swimming is sometimes no allowed when the bacteria levels of the water are too high.

Stop 3:  San Antonio

From Austin, it is about an hour and a half drive to the next city on your Texas road trip, San Antonio. This city boosts a great mix of historic and natural attractions to fit everyone’s interests. You will not be bored here as you explore famous battlegrounds and intricate caverns.

San Antonio is the second-largest city in Texas and was founded in 1718 as a Spanish mission, the evidence of which can still be found around the city. The UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park draw in millions of people per year.

Because of San Antonio’s history, the influences of Spanish culture can be seen around every corner. If you want to search it out, check out the Cathedral of San Fernando, the Spanish Governor’s Palace, or La Villita Historic Arts Village. Don’t forget to check out the best photography spots in San Antonio! 

Remember the Alamo

Located almost smack dab in the center of San Antonio, the Alamo is a must-see location for your Texas road trip. The old Alamo Mission was the site of a battle and standoff between the Texans and the Mexican army in 1836. Though the Alamo was eventually taken, the events that transpired there helped to rally the U.S. troops.

The Alamo is a history buff’s paradise and the building, along with the grounds is interesting to visit. It is free to visit if you do a self-guided tour, or you can pay to take a tour with a knowledgeable guide.

Stroll the River Walk

The River Walk is a pedestrian walkway below street level spanning 15 miles along the San Antonio River. The most popular part of the walk is in the city’s downtown and is full of restaurants, bars, shops, and museums. Take a stroll here during your stay to soak up the atmosphere.

Enjoy the Views from the Tower of the Americas

The 750-foot tall Tower of the Americas is found in Hemisfair Park and is a great place to visit if you are not afraid of heights. The tower features a panoramic observation deck, a revolving restaurant, and a 4D theater ride.

Explore the Natural Bridge Caverns

If you are looking for a fun adventure at a natural wonder, drive to the Natural Bridge Caverns just north of the city. These caverns are the largest commercial caverns in Texas and are certainly awe-worthy. Travel 180 feet below ground to enjoy the sight of amazing rock formations.

Relax at the San Pedro Springs Park

San Pedro Springs Park is a beautiful, 46-acre area perfect for those who enjoy time outside. It is said to be the second-oldest remaining park in the United States and is worth a visit. There is a spring-fed swimming pool, playground, and lush gardens, making it the perfect spot for families.

Affordable:  La Hacienda Inn . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range: Hotel Havana . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Stop 4: Big Bend National Park

Now it is time to really get ready for the “road” part of your Texas road trip. This stop is a good six hour drive from San Antonio and is farther from any of the other stops. However, Big Bend National Park is a must-visit place, especially if you love to check off U.S. national parks. Because of the long drive to get there and the size of the park, you may want to stay for one or two nights. Also because of these factors, you are sure to get time to yourself, far from the tourists that can crowd other popular spots.

Big Bend is located on the Texas border with Mexico and is made up of superb desert and mountain landscapes. The park is perfect for camping and hiking, as well as photographing beautiful scenes and wildlife.

Hike the Santa Elena Canyon

The Santa Elena Canyon was carved out by the Rio Grande, creating a beautiful natural rock formation as well as a great hiking area. The trail here is just under two miles round trip and will give you drop-dead gorgeous views.

Search for Ruins

There are a smattering of cool ruins throughout the park. Search out these historic buildings to feel like an anthropologist and snap some photos. Look for the Mariscal Mine, Dorgan House, and an old post office, among others.

Soak in a Hot Spring

If all the hiking has left you with aching muscles, there are some natural hot springs to relax in. You can find a cluster of these springs down by the Rio Grande where a Hot Springs Historic Trail will lead you to each one will also providing nice views of the river.

Take a Trip into Mexico

If you bring your passport, consider taking a day trip into Mexico, which has its own national parks right across the border as well as many cute towns. Cross the border at Boquillas and take a ferry across the Rio Grande.

Affordable:  Terlingua Ranch Lodge . Check Rates:  Booking.com

Affordable:  Riata Inn – Presidio . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Eve’s Garden Bed & Breakfast . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Stop 5: Explore Texas Hill Country

From Big Bend loop back around to find the next stop on your Texas road trip itinerary. Texas Hill Country is found in south-central Texas between Austin and San Antonio. It is named after the rolling hills that form the area’s landscape. You can seven see Blue Bonnets In Texas here!

The area is a paradise for both nature lovers and photographers due to the many state parks and pretty scenic vistas. With so much to do and see in Texas Hill Country, you should plan to stay a couple of nights here.

Drink Wine at the Fall Creek Vineyards

Some people have referred to Texas Hill Country as the Napa Valley of Texas and if that is true, you have to try some wine! Fall Creek Vineyards can be found in the city of Driftwood. With a beautiful property and a tasting hall open seven days a week, this is a great stop for wine lovers.

Discover Fields of Bluebonnet Flowers

Bluebonnets are the state flower of Texas and if you drive through Texas Hill Country in the spring it will become apparent why as you pass field after field of the vibrant flowers. If you want to find an exceptionally photogenic bluebonnet field, try to find the Bluebonnet House outside of the town of Marble Falls. This abandoned building is known for the flowers that bloom around it.

Hike to the Top of Enchanted Rock

Head to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to climb the 1,825-foot, pink granite mountain called Enchanted Rock. This mountain provides outstanding views of Texas Hill Country, especially if you reach the summit at sunset.

Kayak on the Guadalupe River

The scenic Guadalupe River State Park is sought after by people who love to spend time on the water. Whether you want to kayak, go tubing, fish, or just swim, the Guadalupe River is a good stop for your road trip in Texas. This state park is also great for hiking and mountain biking.

Stay in Fredericksburg, a cute and centrally located town that will provide the perfect place to stay the night in-between days out exploring the Texas Hill Country. Or stay in either Austin or San Antonio, both a short drive away as well.

Affordable:  Fredericksburg Hill Country Hotel . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Wine Country Inn . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Stop 6: Dinosaur Valley State Park

From Texas Hill Country, drive about three hours north to find the next stop for your Texas road trip. Dinosaur Valley State Park is a small park that allows visitors to take a look into the prehistoric past.

Dinosaur Valley is a classic Texas road trip stop where you can discover preserved dinosaur footprints along the banks of the Paluxy River. There are also scale-model statues of dinosaurs here that make for a great photo-op, perfect for posting on social media. The park also has hiking trails and a playground. The park is free for children twelve and under, all others pay $7.

Just outside of the park, you can find Dinosaur World, which adds to the dinosaur theme of the area. This is a fun museum with interactive exhibits, a playground, and a nature trail that winds among more scale-model dinosaurs. This is the perfect place to spend some time with kids of all ages.

Stay in Glen Rose, a small town right outside of the park, or camp at one of the park’s campgrounds.

Affordable:  Glen Rose Inn and Suites . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Inn On The River . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Stop 7: Dallas

From Dinosaur Valley State Park, it is only about an hour and a half drive northeast to Dallas. This large, modern city, like many cities in Texas, is full of both historic and fun things to look forward to. You have to stop in Dallas or your Texas road trip simply would not be complete.

You will want to spend a couple of days here to see everything. There are so many amazing day trips from Dallas that you can make it as your home base and visit the surrounding area quite easily. You can spend one day here but we suggest two or three days in Dallas to really get a feel.

Dallas is one of the most diverse cities in the United States and is home to a population with many ethnic and religious backgrounds as well as being the home of one of the largest LGBT+ communities. Due to these factors, Dallas is clearly a very modern and welcoming city. The city also houses many Fortune 500 companies, such as American Airlines, AT&T, and ExxonMobil, creating a good economic standing.

Learn About the JFK Assassination at The Sixth Floor Museum

President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas in 1963 by Lee Harvey Oswald. Anyone interested in the history of this pivotal event will want to visit the Sixth Floor Museum, which is housed in the former Texas School Book Depository where Oswald had shot from.

At this informative museum, you will be able to learn about everything that lead up to the assassination, look at many photos and videos, learn about conspiracy theories surrounding the shooting, and see the preserved spot where Oswald had fired his gun.

Watch Animals at the Dallas Zoo or Dallas World Aquarium

If you have kids with you on your Texas road trip or just love animals, you may want to visit either the Dallas Zoo or the Dallas World Aquarium. Both locations are extensive and feature a variety of animals, including many endangered ones.

Admire the View from Reunion Tower

The odd-looking Reunion Tower was built in 1978 and is 171 meters tall. At night, it is lit up and is an interesting addition to the Dallas skyline. The top of the tower provides stunning views of the city. There are also two restaurants in the tower.

Check Out Fair Park

Fair Park in Dallas is 277 acres and hosts the Texas State Fair each fall. If you are in taking your Texas road trip during this time, you have to go to the fair! There will be a ton of rides to enjoy and food to devour.

Even if the state fair is not happening when you are in Dallas, Fair Park is still worth a visit. There are many other events and concerts held here throughout the year. You can also take time to be one with nature by walking the paths or check out some of the museums here as well.

Affordable:  Best Western Cityplace Inn . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Canvas Hotel Dallas . Check Rates:  Booking.com

Luxury:   Hotel Crescent Court . Check Rates:  Booking.com

Stop 8: Houston

The next stop on your road trip of Texas is Houston, the largest city in the state and the fourth-largest in the country. You can spend a whole weekend in Houston or only go for a short stop!

To get there from Dallas, it is a three-and-a-half-hour drive south. Houston is another city that can’t be excluded from a Texas itinerary as you can tell by all the interesting and unique things to do there.

Houston is a global and diverse city full of culture and known for its tourist-friendly Museum and Theater Districts. Some of the city’s many nicknames include Space City, Bayou City, and the Culinary Capital of the South. Make sure to try some succulent, Texas BBQ while in the city as well.

Learn About Space Travel at the Space Center Houston

Outer space is something that has fascinated people for most of human history. If you are interested in space travel, NASA, or science, you have to visit one of Houston’s most popular tourist attractions. The Space Center Houston is full of artifacts, interactive displays, cool exhibits, and behind-the-scenes movies that really pull you into the world of NASA. Houston, we do NOT have a problem!

Discover History at the Museum of Natural Science

After learning about things far off in space, it is time to learn about our own planet earth. At the Houston Museum of Natural Science, you will find displays of gems and minerals, complete dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian artifacts, wild animal dioramas, and more.

Relax at Hines Waterwall Park

The focal point and namesake of Hines Waterwall Park is a magnificent 64-foot tall waterfall-like fountain. This landmark begs to be photographed. After taking a selfie for Instagram next to the cascading water, take a seat in the green lawn in front of it for a picnic or just to relax.

Walk Among Butterflies at the Cockrell Butterfly Center

The Cockrell Butterfly Center welcomes you to walk through a beautiful butterfly habitat that is home to hundreds of butterfly species. The simulated rain forest paradise has not only butterflies, but a 50-foot waterfall, tons of tropical plants, and a few other animals and insects as well.

Pretend to be a Cowboy at a Rodeo

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo take place annually in March and if your Texas road trip lines up right, you should make she to drop by the event. This is the largest event of its kind in the world, so if you have ever been interested in attending a rodeo, this is the one for you! Millions of people visit each year.

Affordable:  La Quinta Inn. Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Club Quarters Hotel in Houston. Check Rates:   Booking.com

Stop 9: Galveston

Just a few minutes southeast of Houston is the coastal city of Galveston. This fun beach town is found on a long island connected to the mainland by causeways. You can visit here as a day trip from Houston or, if you have time and want to explore more in-depth, you can stay in the small city. Whatever you chose, Galveston is the perfect place to wind down from your Texas road trip.

Galveston is a tourist hub similar to New York City’s Coney Island and is known as the “Playground of the South”. Though there is a historic district, Galveston is not a place people go to visit museums or learn about history, like some Texas cities. Instead, people flock here for the carnival rides and resorts. This city is guaranteed to be a great, fun-in-the-sun time!

Have Fun at the Schlitterbahn Water Park

Whether you like the thrill of zooming down a water slide, floating in a lazy river, or lounging in the sun, head to the Schlitterbahn Water Park for a great day. Just don’t forget your sunscreen!

Explore the Historic Pleasure Pier

If you want more rides after the water park, head down to the Pleasure Pier, where you can find a year-round carnival. With roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, yummy junk food, and awesome ocean views, this pier is sure to be a fun location.

Take a Boat Tour of the Harbor to Spot Dolphins

There are many tour companies along the coast of Galveston that will happily take you out into the Gulf of Mexico in order to see dolphins. Some excursions even allow you to swim with the animals. Make sure to book a tour ahead of time to ensure a spot.

Take a Tour of Bishop’s Palace

Bishop’s Palace is not really a palace but was built as a private mansion for a wealthy couple in 1892. It is a now a beautifully crafted, historic landmark. Take a tour of the Victorian building to soak in the history of the place and admire the detailed architecture.

Explore the Moody Gardens

The Moody Gardens are comprised of three modern, glass pyramids. The three buildings each have a different theme which denotes what can be found within them. There is the Aquarium Pyramid, the Rainforest Pyramid, and the Discovery Pyramid. The Moody Gardens are like a mix of a zoo, park, and museum.

Simply Chill at the Beach

If all of your driving and sightseeing has tired you out, one way to relax and end your perfect Texas road trip vacation is to simply chill at one of Galveston’s seven beaches. Throw down a beach tower or snag a chair with an umbrella, then doze to the sound of waves crashing against the shore.

Affordable:  Galveston Beach Hotel. Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Hotel Galvez and Spa . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Luxury:  Cozy Historic Beach Cottage . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Conclude Your Texas Road Trip By Flying Out Of Houston

From Galveston, head back up to Houston, return your rental car, and get checked in at the airport. If you drove, it is time to embark on your journey home.

Now you know that Texas is not just a flat, bare place with nothing to see or do. This large state is bigger than many European countries and has plenty of attractions to entertain you on a driving tour of your own country. Texas is full of unique and varying landscapes and has much historic significance. A Texas road trip is sure to be a great time for the whole family!

Reader Interactions

January 26, 2022 at 12:03 pm

Hey – love the itinerary!

I know this is up there with the ‘how long is a piece of string’ question, but do you have any thoughts on the minimum time for this?

We’re looking at a road trip itinerary at the moment, so any idea of timings would be great – thanks

February 4, 2022 at 6:48 pm

There is a LOT of driving in some parts so I would say 10-14 days would be ideal but if you have less such as 5-7 i would just cut some things out!!

April 18, 2022 at 3:26 pm

This is a great itinerary- a good starting point for planning. Thank you!

April 25, 2022 at 9:07 pm

June 29, 2022 at 11:35 am

Appreciate this information and hotel suggestions as well. Curious if you think Fort Worth would be worth a side trip?

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The 8 Most Scenic Road Trips in Texas

Even if you only have a day or two to explore, these road trips deliver natural swimming holes, stunning views, and good eats aplenty..

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With the largest highway system in the United States, Texas is ideal for road-tripping.

Photo by IrinaK/Shutterstock

In the largest state in the contiguous United States, it can take hours just to drive out of Texas, especially if you live toward the center—say, near San Antonio or Austin. So, when most Texans plan road trips, it’s usually an in-state jaunt. The good news is thanks to its size, there are many scenic things to see and do within the borders of the Lone Star State.

Texas sits in an interesting geographical position and boasts 10 different, distinct biomes—it’s not all rolling tumbleweeds and high desert—so there is plenty of scenery to enjoy. Some areas of interest to consider for your trip: the piney woods and Louisiana-like swamps of East Texas; the charming knolls of the Hill Country (and all the clear, cool rivers that run through it); the enchanting, mountainous West Texas desert; the rolling plains of the Panhandle.

If you’re a history buff, there are many historical museums, towns, and monuments to add to your itinerary. Texas was its own country for nine years, something no other state can claim, and has all of the drama, military conflict, and political spats that go along with nation building. With more than 16,000 historical markers throughout all 254 counties of the state, be ready to tap on the brakes and pull over for a quick stop. As John Steinbeck noted in Travels With Charley , the smaller a town is, the more historical markers it is likely to have.

Perhaps what makes a Texas road trip truly unique and worthwhile are the distinctive communities you’ll encounter. Most of central Texas was settled by German immigrants and many small towns in the area—like Gruene, Fredericksburg, and New Braunfels—have German-style restaurants, shops, and even festivals like Wurstfest . South Texas is home to the second-largest population of Latino people in the country after California, with a vibrant Tejano culture that’s been around for centuries. (I sure hope you like Tex Mex.) For a more traditional Southern jaunt, head to Houston where the drawls grow longer, the sweet tea flows free, and the barbecue ribs are as sweet as honey.

All of that, and I haven’t even talked yet about Buc-ee’s , aka the best (and cleanest) gas station chain ever and current record holder for the largest gas station in the world . Consider stocking up on beef jerky and beaver nuggets while you’re there and picking up a chopped brisket sandwich. And keep your eyes peeled for those good ol’ mom-and-pop diners as well—they might be selling homemade pies that will put your mama’s recipe to shame. Oh, and don’t forget to make a pit stop for barbecue if you happen to be near one of the best ’cue joints in Texas.

Ready to ride? Here are the eight of the best Texas road trips:

Highway 170 partially runs along Texas’s border with Mexico, making for striking canyon views.

Photo by jamsedel/Shutterstock

1. Lajitas to Presidio

• Start: Lajitas
• End: Presidio
• Distance: 50 miles
• Recommended time: One day

In the far reaches of West Texas, in the desolate-yet-beautiful borderlands between Mexico and the U.S., is Highway 170, arguably one of the most gorgeous drives in the whole country. Don’t just take my word for it—in 2008, National Geographic Traveler named it one of the nation’s most scenic highways, along with classics like California’s Highway 1 .

You could begin this journey in either direction, but the canyons are most spectacular if the drive starts in the small town of Lajitas (not much there besides a high-end golf resort and air strip) and ends in the slightly bigger small town of Presidio. There are no tourist traps or cultural stops along the way; this is a drive purely for enjoying the ruggedness and solitude of the West Texas desert landscape. Be sure to bring snacks or enough food for a roadside picnic—there are plenty of places to pull off from the road and enjoy a scenic meal.

For fans of Lonesome Dove , consider a detour to see the casita that served as Maria’s Ojinaga home in the miniseries Streets of Laredo , in the ghost town of Contrabando within Big Bend Ranch State Park . And if you happen to be driving from Presidio to Lajitas, make the extra 13 miles to Terlingua, where you can refill on fuel and refill your belly at the legendary Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon —the margaritas are chilly and strong.

The Davis Mountains Scenic Loop begins and ends in Fort Davis.

Photo by Mae Hamilton

2. Davis Mountains Scenic Loop

• Starts and ends in: Fort Davis
• Distance: 75 miles

The Davis Mountains of West Texas are classified as a “ sky island ,” and their green slopes certainly strike a sharp contrast to the brown scrub brush of the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert. Encompassing a scenic 75-mile stretch of Texas State Highway 118 and Texas 166, the Davis Mountains Scenic Loop is the most elevated highway in the state as well as one of the least crowded and most scenic. When I made this trip in November 2021, I didn’t see a single car besides our own for the entire duration.

Along the way, travelers can admire historic ranches, rolling golden grasslands, and mountaintops teeming with flora and fauna found nowhere else in the state. There are several picturesque places to stop for a picnic, including the fancifully named Dead Man’s Canyon , which, as legend has it, got its moniker when the body of young Horace Powe was found propped up next to a boulder in the 1880s—he had been shot 11 times.

The route also passes through 33,000 acres of wild mountain land that’s stewarded by the Nature Conservancy’s Davis Mountains Preserve as well as the University of Texas’s famous McDonald Observatory . The McDonald is a working observatory; academics travel from all over the world for the dark sky reserve that encompasses much of the Big Bend region of West Texas. However, there’s also a museum on campus where visitors can learn all about the research facility’s history and current functions.

Because the loop begins and ends in Fort Davis, spend some time in the small mountain town that still does not have a single traffic light. Blue Mountain Bar and Grill , which uses local ingredients in its kitchen, is a favorite.

If you have a few days to burn in the area, consider embarking on a more thorough West Texas road trip .

The Bluebonnet House in Marble Falls, built in the 1800s, is one of the most photographed homes in the state.

Photo by JaDipity/Shutterstock

3. Mineral Wells to Marble Falls

• Starts: Mineral Wells
• Ends: Marble Falls
• Distance: 163 miles
• Recommended time: One or two days

This is a Texas road trip best suited for summer thanks to its watery itinerary—there are several places to swim along this route.

The journey begins in the small North Texas town of Mineral Wells, once a bustling, premier spa destination known for its hot springs that lured the likes of Judy Garland, Clark Gable, Will Rogers, and even Bonnie and Clyde to its alkaline, mineral-rich waters. Sadly, the Baker Hotel , the place that put the town on the map, shut down in 1972. However, a group of investors bought the hotel in 2019 and are restoring the Grand Old Lady (placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982) to its former glory. (Keep up with their progress on their popular TikTok account.) But you don’t need to stay at the Baker to enjoy the water: Mosey on over to Lake Mineral Wells State Park , if the urge to splash around strikes you. Mineral Wells also has a cute downtown with plenty of shops and restaurants; try the shrimp and grits and ribs at Hole in the Wall Grill & Bier Garten .

Highway 281, which will take you from Mineral Wells to Marble Falls, is full of Hill Country charms and views. Stop in Hico for its Billy the Kid Museum (and an Old West conspiracy theory that says Billy wasn’t killed by Pat Garett in Fort Sumner—instead, he ran away to Hico in some sort of Elvis-Presley-is-still-alive kind of plot twist). Lampasas is home to the oldest spring-fed swimming pool in the state if you’re ready for another dip.

Finally, the journey ends in the small town of Marble Falls, set along the Colorado River, where retirees flock; you can get in one last swim here. Marble Falls is also home to the Blue Bonnet Cafe , a cozy diner famous for its homemade-style pies.

If you’re looking to spend a few days exploring the area, consider embarking on the ultimate Texas Hill Country road trip .

Port Aransas has over 18 miles of fluffy, white-sand beaches.

Photo by Stephanie A Sellers/Shutterstock

4. Galveston to Port Aransas

• Starts: Galveston
• Ends: Port Aransas
• Distance: 209 miles
• Recommended time: Two or three days

The saying goes that the West Coast is the best coast, but how about the third coast? Texas has 367 miles of shoreline, making it the sixth-longest coastline in the country. Unlike the East and West coasts where some of the most expensive property in the world comes with an ocean view, the beach communities of Texas are, for the most part, composed of working-class folks.

This road trip begins in the island city of Galveston, 50 miles from Houston. Thanks to its proximity to H-Town, Galveston is one of the most popular beach towns in the state and features attractions like the Moody Gardens and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier . I think the best beaches in the state are a little farther south—thankfully, the road south along State Highway 35 is a beautiful one. Winding through marshlands, the route provides peekaboo views of the Gulf Coast and meanders through cute towns like West Columbia (capital of the Republic of Texas for eight months in 1836) and the fish-crazy city of Rockport.

Finally, the journey will end in Port Aransas, one of the prettiest beach towns in Texas. There you’ll find 18 miles of white-sand beaches and fresh Gulf Coast seafood. In the colder months, be sure to make a detour to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge , where the last wild flock of endangered whooping cranes likes to winter. Between April and August, baby sea turtles hatch and make their big journey to the ocean.

After you’re done with the Twisted Sisters, hop over to the nearby Frio River for a dip.

Photo by Taylor Leto/Shutterstock

5. Twisted Sisters Motorcycle Route

• Starts and ends in: Leakey
• Distance: 100 miles

Comprised of three Farm to Market roads—FM 335, FM 336, and FM 337—the Twisted Sisters Motorcycle Route is known the most challenging motorcycle loop in the state. And, it also happens to be one of the nicest drives in Texas. Located northwest of San Antonio, the Twisted Sisters cuts through the heart of the Hill Country. Expect gentle, rolling hills, lush live oaks, and limestone outcroppings.

But for motorcyclists, the road can also be dangerous—a sign off of FM 336 warns that 10 bikers have lost their lives on the Twisted Sisters since 2006. However, for experienced motorcycle enthusiasts, the twists, turns, and occasionally bumpy pavement of the famed loop are a delight to experience.

The Twisted Sisters ends and begins in the same place: Leakey, Texas, population 555. After the Twisted Sisters, consider relaxing by the banks of the Frio River, lined with bald cypress trees that turn a gorgeous shade of umber in the fall.

Texas’s stretch of old Route 66 will take you across the Panhandle.

Photo by TLF Images/Shutterstock

6. Route 66

• Starts: Shamrock
• Ends: Glenrio
• Distance: 164 miles

The Lone Star State is home to the shortest stretch of Route 66, a little under 165 miles (not everything is bigger in Texas), and it cuts almost straight across the Panhandle. As elsewhere in the USA, most of the road is not in service or has been demolished, but Route 66 mostly follows the modern path of Interstate 40. There are several Route 66–themed attractions to stop by during this drive, including the iconic, art deco–style U-Drop Inn and the public art installation of Cadillac Ranch . But perhaps one of the most famous stops is the Big Texan Steak Ranch , which serves 72-ounce steaks for free —if participants can eat the entire hunk of meat in less than an hour with no assistance.

Established in 1878, Gruene Hall may be the most famous dance hall in Texas.

Photo by Philip Arno Photography/Shutterstock

7. Gruene to Fredericksburg

• Starts: Gruene
• Ends: Fredericksburg
• Distance: 71 miles

This is probably one of this Texan’s favorite road trips on this list, mostly for sentimental reasons. As anyone who grew up in Central Texas knows, options for convenient day trips are scarce in the region, but Gruene and Fredericksburg are tried and true, and the drive between them is gorgeous.

Gruene (pronounced “green”) is a little German Texan town on the banks of the Guadalupe River; it is most famous for Gruene Hall , the state’s oldest continuously operating dance hall. Gruene Hall is something of a Texas legend and is worth visiting all on its own—musicians like Townes Van Zandt, Willie Nelson, and George Strait have played at the famed venue. Gruene was initially established by German immigrants interested in cotton farming; a giant cotton gin facility in town has been converted into the Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar , which has a fine view of the Guadalupe (its rushing waters once powered the gin).

The jaunt up to Fredericksburg, about 78 miles west of Austin, takes drivers through rolling Hill Country landscapes and vineyards. Much like Gruene, Fredericksburg was also settled by German immigrants and is famous for its German-style fare—consider stopping by the Old German Bakery and Restaurant on Main Street for some schnitzel and potato pancakes. Fredericksburg is famous for its peaches, so the best time to visit is in the summer when things like peach cider and ice cream are available and farm stands line the highways.

How do you know if you’re in East Texas? Take a deep breath—smell pine? You’re there.

Photo by @invadingkingdom/Unsplash

8. Houston to Sam Houston National Forest

Starts: Houston Ends: Sam Houston National Forest Distance: 47 miles Recommended time: An afternoon is fine, but plan an overnight visit to truly immerse yourself in the area.

The metropolitan crown jewel of East Texas is Houston (with its insanely delicious and diverse culinary scene ), but to get a taste of what the surrounding countryside is like, venture outside city limits to the Pineywoods . The Pineywoods of East Texas is a large area of woodlands that’s part of a bigger forest system that extends into Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Here, travelers will find swamps as well as heavily forested areas peppered with oak, mesquite, ash, elm, and, of course, pine trees. Hundreds of different bird, mammal, amphibian, and reptile species call the Pineywoods home, including the red-cockaded woodpecker, southern short-tailed shrew, and rafinesque big-eared bat. Keep a careful eye out for venomous water moccasin (aka cottonmouth) snakes as well as the fearsome American alligator.

One of the best and most convenient places to explore the Pineywoods from Houston is Sam Houston National Forest , just under an hour’s drive from the city. Day hikes like the Lone Star Hiking Trail or Double Lake Trail make it easy to get a sense of the area in a few hours, but there are overnight camping options in the park as well. Try visiting in the spring or fall to avoid those broiling Texas summer temperatures. If you’re looking for a place to cool off, head to the Blue Lagoon , an old limestone quarry that’s been turned into a swimming hole. Though it primarily caters to scuba divers, casual swimmers are also welcome.

Huntsville is only a 10-minute drive from Sam Houston National Forest. The town is infamously the home of the Texas State Penitentiary at Huntsville, which houses the Death Row unit of the state. In Huntsville, travelers can visit the Texas Prison Museum , which is dedicated to “preserving the history and the culture of the Texas prison system.” Inside, there are exhibits that cover Bonnie and Clyde, the history of how the state’s penitentiary system grew, plus a display dedicated to those who were proven innocent after being wrongly executed by the state—it’s an intense, but sobering experience.

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The Family Vacation Guide

20 of the Best Family Road Trips in Texas

posted by James Brockbank on December 8, 2021 // last updated on December 8, 2021

Howdy, y’all! Is your family looking for fun ideas for close-to-home vacations in the Lone Star State? Texas is the second-largest state in the United States and offers many educational, fun, and nature-filled road trip adventures for the entire family. 

Whether the gang wants to drive far and spend a few nights basking in nature or take a short drive to somewhere beautiful, we’ve got the 20 best family road trips in Texas to help you get inspired for your next family vacation. 

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Big bend national park , enchanted rock state park , port aransas & mustang island state park , galveston island , fort worth , garner state park , san antonio , brenham and round top, amarillo , grapevine , bandera , spicewood , new braunfels , corpus christi , austin , dallas , houston .

Just a short drive outside of Fort Worth, the Dinosaur Valley State Park is an incredible road trip adventure for the entire family. For families with little ones who get a thrill out of dinosaurs, this is a dream trip that allows you to literally walk in the footsteps of these prehistoric creatures. 

Located near Glen Rose, Texas, your family can explore over twenty miles of trails along the Paluxy River and look for visible dinosaur prints. There are also two giant dinosaur statues that the kids will go wild over. Other options include camping, picnicking, mountain biking, swimming, horseback riding, and more. 

You can take a guided tour of the 1,500-acre park or download the dinosaur print map on your phone and try and spot them all for yourself.

Children twelve years and under have free entrance here for day use. Anyone over the age of thirteen must pay a $7 entrance fee. 

If you plan on hitting up multiple destinations on this list, consider getting a Texas State Parks Pass which gives you unlimited access to nearly 90 different national parks in the state. Y’all will also get discounts on camping fees, park store purchases, and equipment rental. 

To visit the Dinosaur Valley State Park from Austin, head north for around three hours. From Fort Worth, head south then west along Route 67 for about a one-hour road trip. 

The Big Bend National Park is a protected park in West Texas that spans over 800,000 hectares of scenic landscapes. This location is one of the best family road trips in Texas for the incredible scenery the whole family will enjoy during the drive and within the park. 

Enjoy family camping, day hikes, and exciting educational exhibits about animals, plants, sea fossils, dinosaur bones, and birds found in the area. 

Take the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and explore thirty miles of gorgeous landscapes as you and the family take pictures at various overlooks, viewpoints, and canyons.

Big Bend charges entrance fees per vehicle. Families coming here in the same car will only need to pay $30, which gives the whole family access to the park for seven days. Camping fees depend on which campground your family prefers and can cost anywhere between $16-$10 per night. 

Big Bend National Park is an eight-hour drive from Dallas and about a seven-hour drive along Route 10 from Austin. 

One of the best family road trips in Texas is a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area .

Located in Fredericksburg, Texas, the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area has been a protected historical landmark since 1936 and a national natural landmark since 1971. It has over eleven miles of hiking trails, but its claim to fame is a 425-foot pink granite natural rock formation called a batholith. 

Here the family can learn about rock formations and geology while taking in the natural scenery of the unique landscapes. Listen to folklore and stories about why many local tribes deem this area enchanted. In fact, archeological evidence suggested humans inhabited this natural area even 12,000 years ago, giving the region a rich history worth learning about on your vacation. 

Note that you cannot swim at Enchanted Rock State Park nor ride bikes on the hiking trails. 

If you have a Texas State Parks Pass, it includes this park. Otherwise, entrance fees are $8 for visitors aged thirteen and up or free for children twelve years old or younger. 

Head west for about two hours from Austin to visit this state park. If coming from Dallas, plan for four hours of car time as you head southwest to this natural wonderland. 

Port Aransas is a beach community and city located on Mustang Island well worth a visit on your next family road trip in Texas. 

The Mustang Island State Park has five miles of coast where the entire family can enjoy surfing, swimming at the beach, kayaking, and fishing in the bay. Camping here has electricity and hot water for added comfort. 

Port Aransas Beach is on the northernmost point of Mustang Island. It is within walking distance to the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center , which has a 700-foot boardwalk that allows parents and kids to walk over the freshwater wetlands and take in the spectacular animals and vistas. 

From Dallas, Port Aransas is about a six-hour drive south. From Austin, it’s around four hours of driving time. Parking permits to park near the beach in Port Aransas are $12 per day. 

Just a short drive outside of Houston, Galveston is a coastal island city with so many family activities to do along the way and once you arrive. 

Most notably is the Moody Gardens Aquarium that gives the kids an opportunity to see sharks, penguins, and exotic rainforest animals. 

Families will love heading to the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier for rollercoasters and water rides that are sure to thrill the whole family. The smell of funnel cakes permeates the air and will draw you to the delicious dining options that include a Brewing Station for the parents. 

Or dive into nature at the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge or the Galveston Island State Park. Here you can rent a lodge or go camping, hike along trails, mountain bike, fish, and so much more. 

Galveston Island is only a one-hour drive outside of Houston. Pack some snacks and movies for the 4-5 hour drive from Dallas or Austin. 

Fort Worth is a town just outside of Dallas and is an excellent place for the family to escape for some together time. 

Immerse yourself into cowboy culture by visiting a cattle drive, rodeo, or the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame . Kids love to explore the Fort Worth Zoo with over 7,000 different animals to see and learn about. Check out the Kimbell Art Museum with paintings from world-famous artists if your family enjoys art. 

Another highlight of Fort Worth is the wide variety of restaurant options for some famous Texan flavors. 

Perfect for long and short family roads trip in Texas, Fort Worth is only about forty-five minutes from Dallas and a three-hour drive north of Austin. 

Garner State Park is a wonder to behold, especially on an autumn family road trip when the forest leaves change into a sunset of colors. 

This state park has sixteen miles of trails for scenic hiking that the entire family will enjoy. Jump into the Frio River or enjoy fishing from its shores. The concession building is where it’s at for nighttime fun as everyone gathers to dance around an old-school jukebox. 

Depending on how your family best enjoys their time in nature, you can reserve a cabin or campsite. 

Entrance fees for visitors aged thirteen and up is $8 and free for kids aged twelve and under. 

Garner State Park is approximately five and a half hours southwest of Dallas, so pack some snacks and fun driving activities for this family Texas road trip. If your family is heading to Garner State Park from Austin, expect a drive time of around three hours. 

Waco is a superb destination for a scenic and fun family road trip in Texas. Located in central Texas, Waco has many things to see for the entire family to enjoy. 

If your kids get a kick out of animals, then the Cameron Park Zoo should be one of your first stops. With nearly 2,000 different animals, visitors will have a chance to see their favorite animal and learn something new at the same time. Or head to the Waco Mammoth National Monument to learn about wooly mammoths and see their prehistoric bones. 

If sports are more your family’s thing, then you shouldn’t miss the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. Here you can learn about sports history from 1951 and onwards. Have fun placing your hands up against famous NBA players’ handprints and other interactive exhibits. 

For outdoor recreation, explore Lake Waco, local farmers markets, and many areas for family picnics. 

Last but not least, Waco is home to the Dr. Pepper Museum. Here, you and the family can learn about the oldest drink manufacturer in the United States and, of course, taste some of the delicious products. 

From Austin, Waco is a two-hour drive going north. From Dallas, it is about a two-hour drive, headed south.

San Antonio houses the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas, the San Antonio Mission National Historical Park. Head here for one of the best family road trips in Texas. 

Drive through scenic Texan landscapes as you arrive into this historical city with a lot to discover and explore. 

Walk the 8-mile stretch along the scenic San Antonio River and visit the Spanish colonial missions Concepción, San José, San Juan, and Espada. Your family will learn about life in Texas in the 18th century. 

“Remember the Alamo!” at the Alamo San Antonio and Alamo Gardens with interactive tours and exhibits that are an educational and fun experience for everyone in the fam. Watch demonstrations about frontier life with a visit to the Living History encampment. 

San Antonio also has the Sea Life Aquarium and a LEGOLAND® Discovery center that are both sure to widen your kid’s eyes and bring a smile to their faces. 

San Antonio is approximately four and a half to five hours southwest of Dallas. From Austin, head south on Route 35 for a two-hour family road trip. 

Why not check out our guide to the best family hotels in San Antonio ?

Round Top and Brenham are two small Texas towns for short family road trips an hour’s drive away from both Houston and Austin. 

Brenham is known as a must-stop for authentic and delicious Texas BBQ. It also houses an annual Texas Arts and Music Festival that will give the whole family new things to see and hear to inspire the kids for their next school art project. 

With plenty of museums, wineries, parks, shopping, and even the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, there are things to do in Brenham to keep the whole family entertained.  

Nearby is the small town of Round Top, where the family will enjoy the oddities they spot at the local antique fair held twice each year. 

If your starting destination is Dallas, drive south for around four hours and pass through many picturesque landscapes and cute towns as you venture forth on your family road-trip adventure. 

The Texas Panhandle has many amazing stops for family road trips in Texas, and Amarillo is the largest city located in the Panhandle region. Head here for your next family road trip for all the beautiful stops along the way – or make this your final destination. 

Check out Cadillac Ranch, a permanent art installation of ten upturned Cadillacs that have now been colorfully covered in graffiti and make for really cool family photoshoots. 

The Palo Duro Canyon State Park is another must-visit during your family road trip through the Texas Panhandle. Here you can hike and take in the iconic scenery of the second largest canyon in the United States after the Grand Canyon. 

There’s also the Wonderland Amusement Park with rollercoasters, arcade games, and rides for all ages to get a thrill out of Amarillo. 

Drive five and a half hours northwest from Dallas to visit Amarillo. If coming from Austin, you’ll have nearly eight hours straight of driving if you don’t make stops at the many scenic spots along the way. 

Grapevine is right in between Dallas and Fort Worth, making it a quick family getaway if you’re starting out from either of these locations. If not, it is a fantastic family road trip option for families also looking to spend time getting to know more of Fort Worth and Dallas. 

True to its name, parents and adult family members can expect some world-class wine tasting in Grapevine. On the other hand, kids will have their fill of fun at the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center and Sea Life Aquarium. 

Check out a glassblowing studio or see if your family can work as a team to get out of an escape room in the allotted time. Then, finish your day with a murder mystery dinner. 

Stay at the Great Wolf Lodge for the whole family to enjoy the waterpark, fun MagiQuest, rope courses, arcade games, and even a Build-A-Bear workshop. 

Grapevine is around three hours north of Austin. Heading up Highway 35, you can easily incorporate a stop in Waco on your way from Austin to Grapevine. 

Close to San Antonio, Bandera is a tiny town nicknamed the cowboy capital of the world . If your little ones love all things cowboy and cowgirl, this is definitely a destination to add during one of the best family road trips in Texas. 

You can find anything cowboy-themed here. Horseback riding is a must, but you can also head to the waterpark or jump into the Medina River. 

Visit the Natural History Museum and the Frontier Times Museum or even see the historic Bandera county jailhouse. Your family has a wide choice of things to do, like checking out a rodeo, going ziplining, or hunting for antiques.  

You can visit both Bandera and San Antonio on one great road trip. If you’re driving from Dallas, plan for around five and half hours of driving time though there are many tempting stops along the way. 

Fort Davis, Marfa, and Alpine 

Fort Davis, Marfa, and Alpine are three small towns located on the western border of Texas. Here you can really immerse yourself into the picturesque desert landscapes and explore some of the lesser-seen sides of Texas. 

Go on historic walking tours with the family to get a feel for these small towns brimming with history and aching to tell their stories. You can tell dad that there’s also a 9-hole golf course with some incredible views at the Alpine Country Club. 

Take a scenic drive on Highway 166 through the Davis Mountains, then go for a short hike at the Fort Davis National Historic Site. 

Driving directly from Dallas to any of these three towns will take approximately seven and a half to eight and a half hours, depending on traffic. If driving to one of these western towns from Austin, the drive time will be around six and a half to seven hours. 

Located along the snaking Colorado River, Spicewood is a natural paradise your family will be so happy to escape to on a memorable family road trip away from home. 

Krause Springs is a spot worth checking out for natural hot springs and geysers. There are numerous recreational areas, vineyards, and distilleries worth visiting if your family members are interested in those activities. 

While there are many camping spots and hotels to choose from, your family will surely get a kick out of sleeping at a treehouse hotel. For even more treetop views, go on a ziplining adventure that ends with a splash in the river. 

From Austin, Spicewood is only forty-five minutes up Highway 71. From Dallas, your family will need about four hours in the car to arrive at their fun-filled destination.

German settlers founded New Braunfels , a small town in Texas located on the Guadalupe and Comal rivers. This town is filled with antique shops, outdoor adventures, and great shopping. 

Landa Park, Canyon Lake, and The Natural Bridge Caverns are fantastic options as a first taste of the fun outdoor activities that New Braunfels has to offer. 

Head to the McKenna Children’s Museum for interactive exhibits about science, space, culture, and technology to promote enjoyable educational opportunities. Your family might also love to catch a play at the Circle Arts Theatre. 

New Braunfels is about four hours by car from Dallas, Texas. New Braunfels is a shorter forty-five-minute to one-hour drive from Austin. 

Corpus Christi is one of the major cities in Texas that is a great place to park and stretch your legs during your Texas family road trip. 

The top sites to see include the Texas State Aquarium and, of course, South Padre Island . These destinations ensure a fun beach-time getaway by the ocean. 

Austin is the capital city of Texas and is brimming with unique activities for families discovering the best family road trips in Texas. 

As the capital, you can expect plenty of options for museums, art galleries, and lots of live blues and country music. On top of that, there are endless dining options that even the pickiest eater of your family will have a hard time turning their nose down at. 

Why not check out our guide to the best family hotels in Austin for inspiration on where to stay?

Dallas is another major Texas city that your family needs to see during your next road trip, especially if you plan to head to Fort Worth, Grapevine, or anywhere else north of Waco. 

Dallas boasts the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, the Dallas Museum of Art, and a Six Flags amusement park. 

Why not check out our guide to the best family hotels in Dallas for inspiration on where to stay?

As the hometown of Beyonce, Houston doesn’t need to brag much about the other things worth doing here when there’s a slight chance you could spot the visiting superstar roaming around town. 

If your kids or more fans of stars than superstars, Houston is still a great place to visit during your family road trip since it is also the hometown of the Houston Space Center. NASA astronauts receive training here, and your kids can get an up-close look at what that space program is like. 

Why not check out our guide to the best family hotels in Houston for inspiration on where to stay?

Start the Car 

Get your family ready to start the car and explore some of the best family road trips in Texas! Since everything really is bigger in Texas, be sure to keep your eyes peeled and your camera charged because there are so many wonderful things to see and do for the whole family.

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

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Texas Road Trip

23 Amazing Family Road Trip Ideas In Texas

23 Most amazing family road trip ideas in Texas are right here.

There’s no place like Texas. And there’s no better way to experience it than a road trip with your family. We’ve put together 23 of the most amazing family road trip ideas in Texas so you can get out there and explore this great state with your loved ones. Some may be obvious, and some might not have even crossed your mind. It’s worth a look. I have a 13-year-old grandson that I raise who will get mighty bored if we don’t go anywhere, so I’m off to find fun things for us and you, too!

Whether you’re looking for something that’ll get everyone talking or just looking for an easy ride through some beautiful scenery, we’ve got you covered.

Family Road Trip Ideas In Texas

If you’re planning a kid-friendly trip, these ideas are some of the most common. Considering factors such as length of stay, the age of your children, and if you want to take your pet, you can plan a vacation that your kids and yourself will remember forever.

1. Texas State Parks

Camp out at your nearest state park or another one further down the road. State parks offer kids outdoor activities, like canoeing, hiking, geocaching, swimming, etc. If you’re not a tent camper like me, some state parks have cabins and screened shelters with cots to rent. We like to go geocaching in state parks because they make sure the treasure is usually there, unlike some places we’ve been to where there’s nothing to find when you get there. Be sure you download the geocaching app before you leave home.

I’ll never forget our day trip to  Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, TX. Seeing those dinosaur footprints for the first time was a woozer. Besides searching for dinosaur tracks in the cold water, the kids also went geocaching, had a picnic, and hiked as much as possible until we got tired. If you go to this state park, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is a short drive and close to Dinosaur World. You could probably make a pretty fun weekend right in Glen Rose.

Or how about a hatchery tour at Sea Center Texas? It’s under the umbrella of the Texas State Parks located in Lake Jackson, TX, near Brazosport …and admission is free.

2. Texas Water Parks Trip Ideas In Texas

Water parks in Texas are preparing for their opening day in May, and some offer specials on season passes. Take a look here at the Texas Water Parks Open for 2023 .

3. Jellystone Parks In Texas

Why yes, Yogi Bear still exists! Did you know there are five Jellystone Parks in Texas? They are all spread out in the Lone Star State. Earlier this month, my grandson and I enjoyed staying at the North Texas Jellystone Park in Burleson, TX. He had a blast, and I got to act like a kid, too!

The other four are in or near Tyler, Houston, Texas Hill Country, and San Antonio.

And, if you vacation with your grandkids, you may want to read about the  best Texas towns to visit with your grandkids . I’ve taken mine to a lot of them.

4. Texas Area Lakes

We have tons of lakes to use. And I’m sure camping spots will fill up quickly in summer and fall. If you’re not a tent camper, this is the year to try it out. Yikes, I can’t believe I said that!! But bring your kayak and stay in the water all day or fish from the bank or a pier. This is probably one of the cheapest vacations you and the kids will enjoy.

5. Stay In A Yurt Or Glamping Tent

Do you know that companies like Hipcamp, Tentrr, and Airbnb have yurts, glamping tents, and camping areas that may be in the next town over from you? Staying in a yurt or glamping tent is an experience; some are on a river, lake, or in the woods. You never know where they might be unless you look. Try looking up the next town from you and seeing what you find.

6. Staycation At A Nearby Hotel or A Resort

Have you noticed some of these new hotels have more amenities than ever? Like live music at night, an outdoor lounge area with yard lights lit up at night, drink specials at the bar for the adults, and more. The ones that come to mind are Texican Court in Las Colinas and  Cavalry Court in College Station.

Or what about a resort hotel with many amenities for kids and families? Great Wolf Lodge might not be a bad idea. No spoiling the fun with that indoor pool.

7. Stay At A Guest Ranch

Depending on where you live, you may have a guest ranch near you. But if not, maybe a short road trip might be worth it. Guest Ranches have some activities on the ranch, like horseback riding and perhaps fishing, but indeed, time out in nature, hiking, and good hearty meals. Check it out.

8. Rent An RV

Camping season is upon us, and road-tripping in an RV for the first time might be fun. There are over 18,000 campgrounds in Texas that allow RVs. The pets can come, you make your meals if you want, and some campgrounds have fun weekly activities all lined up. And, best of all, you don’t have to go that far to enjoy an RV camping experience. Ending the day with a homemade meal cooked over the campfire or portable grill would be heaven for this girl. This could very well be an inexpensive road trip you’ve been looking for.

There is even a website where you can actually go to the campsite of your wish and rent an RV that is already hooked up, so all you have to do is make it your home for however long you rented it.

Try GOrving.com for that.

9. Take A Zipline Road Trip

Indeed, there is a zipline course near you. Take the whole family and go ziplining for the day. It’s an adventure and one I must confess that I love. Maybe that’s why I’m mentioning it here. I know not everyone loves the idea of flying through the air attached to a cable, but it sure is fun! My kid loves it, too. In the above photo, we were at the NY Texas Zipline Course in LaRue, TX (East Texas). That’s the city of Tyler behind us.

10. Find A Haunted Town

There are haunted towns and places in Texas just waiting for you. Most are haunted all year long – HA! Check out the  Haunted Towns and Places In Texas  that we found. Halloween might be the only time you’ll find a haunted house, but haunted towns are year-round destinations …because they’re haunted!!

11. Trek A National Park In Texas

Big Bend National Park has abundant outdoor adventures and would make a fantastic Texas road trip with the family. Providing you all like the outdoors, this is a great place for a day hike with great views of the mountains and the Rio Grande. It would be an unforgettable family vacation for sure. Bring more water than you think you’ll ever need.

There are entrance fees per vehicle. Last year it was $30. FYI, if you have a Texas State Park pass, you won’t be able to use it here.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is Texas’ other national park in far West Texas and east of El Paso. You may want to go here if you like hiking ancient fossil reefs. Entrance fees here are $10 a person.

12. South Padre Island

If you don’t like crowds, you may want to go to the beach in the off-season, but the weather is still great. It doesn’t ever get that cold in Padre, so going any time other than summer is good.

13. Port Aransas Beach

Again, going to a beach in the off-season may be a better choice for you and your family. Not only will it be less crowded, but prices may have dropped as it goes into its off-season. I remember a time when my grandson swam at the beach in October. We had no idea that could be possible and didn’t pack his swimsuit. We let him go in – clothes and all.

14. New Braunfels For The Win

There is much to do in the town all year round. The Guadalupe River is fun any time …but the water does get cold. Many restaurants and places to stay are all over town, from cabins on the rivers to hotels and Airbnb.

15. Canoe The Colorado River

Canoeing the Colorado River is a great option for beginners. When I was there many years ago, there weren’t many rapids in the water, so it wasn’t terrifying. But hey, I’m terrified of large white caps!

Here are the towns the river runs through – take your pick.

Marble Falls, Austin, Bastrop, Smithville, La Grange, Columbus, Wharton, and Bay City.

​16. Road Trip to Small Towns East of Dallas

My thought is the four towns that make up Washington County – Brenham, Caldwell, Washington, & Burton . There are a lot of historic sites in this part of Texas, especially in Washington, where 59 delegates from all parts of Texas met at Washington, Texas, to formally declare independence from Mexico and to sign the papers. There’s even a tour guide to tell you all about it. I took my grandson when he was in the 5th grade, and he was so interested because he had already studied it in school. Each small town has something they boast about.

17. Fort Worth Stockyards

I highly recommend Cowtown, aka the Fort Worth Stockyards, especially if you’ve never been. You need to go to this place at least once in your life to say you’ve been there. Cattle drives happen every day at 11 am and again at 4 pm. It resembles the legendary Chisholm Trail from the late 1800s when cowboys and wranglers took the cattle down south to Abilene, Kansas.

18. Hike Enchanted Rock

After a long day of hiking Enchanted Rock, go into the town of Fredericksburg, TX, and have a glass of wine. There is a tasting room on just about every corner. You’ll want to make sure to spend some time in the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area for its scenic views of the mountains. Everyone who goes is in awe. Make reservations online before you go; all state parks only allow a certain number of people inside at a time. This park is busy, especially on a Saturday.

19.  Palo Duro Canyon – Texas Panhandle

Palo Duro Canyon, a Natural Wonder of Texas, should be on everyone’s travel list soon or later. It’s just as beautiful as the Grand Canyon. And if your family is into ziplining, you can do that over the canyon. You’ll forever want to do it again …but that’s coming from someone who got the ziplining bug after her first trip here.

If road tripping here, stop and see the Cadillacs all lined up in a row at the iconic Cadillac Ranch.

Tip: Bring a can of spray paint for each person and let them make their mark on the cars – yes, it’s allowed.​

20. Corpus Christi

Heard of Lively Beach? It’s a resort that caters to Corpus Christi beaches. It’s on Mustang Island, where everything is happening. Look for better deals in the off-season here too.

21. Galveston Island Beach

You can always take a road trip to Galveston. The food is good, and the beaches are okay. The entire family will have fun at Pleasure Pier. Stay until the evening when the party really starts! Moody Gardens would be an excellent place to check out – it’s got something fun for the whole family.

22. Go Tubing Down The Frio River

One of the best road trips I’ve taken with my grandson. We went four years ago and stayed with my uncle and his family. Brody had a blast jumping off the rocks and tubing down the river. Garner State Park is nearby, too, and I hear that this park has remarkable views.

23. San Marcos

San Marcos River in Central Texas, about 30 miles south of Austin right off Interstate 35, is a great place to consider for a family road trip in Texas. Though the river is cold, you’ll get used to it! I’m not really fond of cold water, but the kids love it. Tubing the San Marcos River is pretty cool if you’ve never done it. There are also places to jump off into the water. That’s what I remember when I was there as a kid.

I hope you’ve got something out of these family road trip ideas in Texas and are on your way to somewhere good!

About Kim Croisant

Kim Croisant is a freelance writer and owner/writer at Texas Travel Talk and a native Texan living north of Fort Worth. When not writing about travel destinations (not just in Texas), restaurants, and hotels, she is most likely juggling family life, caring for her mother, and raising her grandson. She loves red wine, chips & dip, and travel magazines. Follow her on Instagram @texastraveltalk.

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Here Are 12 Awesome Road Trips In Texas That Are An Absolute Must-Take

Kristen Lawrence

Texas staff writer for Only in Your State, blogger for Power of Positivity, and freelance health, wellness, and travel writer. I spend any chance I get traveling, enjoying nature, trying out new recipes, and meditating. I love sharing smiles, good food, and great conversation :)

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Every time is a great time to plan road trips by yourself or with family and/or friends, don’t you think? Luckily, Texas offers many fun-filled road trip ideas, whether you want to go hiking, tubing, sightseeing, or simply drive through beautiful countryside. If you’re short on ideas for road trips, these are some of the best road trips in Texas you could possibly take:

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Ready to hop in your car and hit the road yet? What do you consider to be the best road trips in Texas? Tell us all about them in the comments – we love to hear from you!

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What are some must-visit attractions in Texas?  

Texas is an enormous state with lots to see and do, so it can be a little overwhelming to try and narrow it down when you visit. But, hey, we’ve done the hard work for you – some of our picks for the must-visit attractions in the Lone Star State include the world-famous San Antonio River Walk, which extends for several miles along the San Antonio River. It’s scenic, especially for a cityscape, and definitely worth a trip. Of course, there’s also the Alamo, which is easily one of Texas’s most major points of historical pride. Even if you’re not a big fan of history, this one is still one you’ve got to experience at least once. Nature Lovers have cause to rejoice as well; Texas is home to places like Big Bend National Park, which is unbelievably beautiful year-round, and Padre Island National Seashore is another naturally beautiful must-see.   

What are some must-do things to do in Texas?   

There are plenty of things to add to your must-do list in Texas. For example, the State Capitol is a fascinating place to visit. If you’re looking for more nature-oriented must-dos, you’re in luck; Texas is home to 80 state parks and two National Parks. They are each filled with wonder and intrigue, as well as all the natural beauty you could ever ask for. Who says Texas isn’t beautiful? Someone who’s never been there, probably. You should also visit the beaches and caverns throughout the state. Texas has an amazing 367 miles of perfect shoreline that is sure to thrill you, especially when you see it for the first time.  

What places to visit in Texas should I add to my bucket list?   

It might be easier to list things you should skip putting on your bucket list because it doesn’t get a whole lot more epic than most of Texas! Other than the more obvious places like The Alamo and downtown San Antonio, you’ll want to visit places like Deep Ellum, which is located in downtown Dallas. It’s an awesome arts district with theatres, music venues, breweries, local shops and restaurants, and more. You’ll also want to check out the beautiful Palo Duro Canyon, and the world-famous Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs cannot be passed up by any reasonable visitor. You should check out some of the awesome small towns around the state, too! For more of our favorite gems in Texas, take a look at this article.

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15 Most Exciting Road Trips From Texas

Road trip cities from texas.

Take a state as big as Texas — 268,597 square miles — and couple it with a pandemic, and you have another meaning to "Lone Star State."

If you are antsy and in need of travel, we've found cities you can visit that are just a road trip away. Some may only take a few hours, but all can be done in a day to get you to a new place to see, explore and shake up repetitive days.

Ready to go? We have the mileage, hotels and attractions already planned out for you on these 15 most exciting road trips from major cities in Texas.

New Orleans

Let the good times roll in New Orleans, home to the nation's biggest Mardi Gras celebration and Jazz Fest.

Where to Go: Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World museum, the French Quarter and the Garden District

Where to Stay: Maison de la Luz , the top-ranked hotel in the city

Where to Eat: Cafe du Monde for its famous beignets

Getting There

From Houston: 348 miles, 5 hours and 15 minutes

From Dallas: 506 miles, 7.5 hours

From San Antonio: 543 miles, 8 hours

From Austin: 564 miles, 9 hours and 15 minutes

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Go farther afield to the crossroads between the American Plains and the West, where ample skiing and crisp air await.

Where to Go: The Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak and one of many zipline tours

Where to Stay: The Broadmoor , a destination resort dating back more than 100 years

Where to Eat: Salsa on the Rock, the top-rated restaurant in the city

From Houston: 958 miles, 14.5 hours

From Dallas: 724 miles, 10.5 hours

From San Antonio: 862 miles,13 hours

From Austin: 849 miles, 13 hours

Oklahoma City

You won't be able to squeeze in all of the sights in OK City in one weekend — there are more than 50 attractions here.

Where to Go: Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Bricktown, and the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Where to Stay: Inside a 1920s renovated building at the Ambassador Hotel Oklahoma City, Autograph Collection  

Where to Eat: Metro Wine Bar & Bistro, the city's favorite

From Houston: 445 miles, 6.5 hours

From Dallas: 206 miles, 3 hours

From San Antonio:  466 miles, 7 hours

From Austin: 388 miles, 5 hours and 45 minutes

Shreveport, Louisiana

Check out the border city offering riverboats, gaming and waterfront entertainment.

Where to Go: R.W. Norton Art Galley, Shreveport Water Works Museum and Shreveport Aquarium

Where to Stay: Try the Remington Suite Hotel and Spa , and get pampered during your visit.

Where to Eat: Leave behind Tex-Mex for Athena Greek & Lebanese Grill.

From Houston:  238 miles, 4 hours

From Dallas: 188 miles, 2 hours and 45 minutes

From San Antonio:  414 miles, 6.5 hours

From Austin: 336 miles, 5.5 hours

Kansas City, Missouri

Visit the City of Fountains, and enjoy its wide array of music clubs — this is where swing and bebop began.

Where to Go: The National WWI Museum and Memorial, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Union Station and Arabia Steamboat Museum

Where to Stay:  Crossroads Hotel , a charming boutique property beloved by travelers

Where to Eat: Devour the barbeque ribs at Jack Stack Barbeque Freight House.

From Houston:  745 miles, 11.5 hours

From Dallas: 508 miles, 8 hours

From San Antonio:  780 miles, 12 hours

From Austin: 702 miles, 11 hours

Santa Fe, New Mexico

See the oldest continuously inhabited city in the U.S. — a place that inspired artist Georgia O'Keeffe.

Where to Go: Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, Museum of International Folk Art and Canyon Road

Where to Stay: Sample the exceptional at the luxurious Inn of the Five Graces .

Where to Eat: Sazon, the city's best restaurant with a Latin flair

From Houston: 874 miles, 13 hours

From Dallas: 640 miles, 9.5 hours

From San Antonio: 706 miles, 10 hours and 45 minutes

From Austin: 686 miles, 10 hours and 45 minutes

Mesa Verde, Colorado

Visit the oldest archaeologically preserved city in the country at this national park and heritage site.

Where to Go: The site's Cliff Palace, Balcony House, Spruce Tree House and numerous hiking trails

Where to Stay: The Far View Lodge is the only lodging within the park's entrance.

Where to Eat: The Metate Room at the Far View Lodge, featuring park views and fine dining

From Houston: 1,102 miles, 17.5 hours

From Dallas: 912 miles, 14 hours

From San Antonio:  978 miles, 15.5 hours

From Austin: 959 miles, 15.5 hours

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Step back in time in the town that became a retreat a century ago, due to its naturally heated thermal waters.

Where to Go: Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs National Park, Fordyce Bathhouse and Lake Catherine State Park

Where to Stay: Lookout Point Lakeside Inn will give you the best views of the lake and provide plenty of peace.

Where to Eat: Grab breakfast at the Pancake Shop dinner.

From Houston:  402 miles, 6 hours and 45 minutes

From Dallas: 287 miles, 4.5 hours

From San Antonio: 548 miles, 8 hours and 45 minutes

From Austin: 470 miles, 7.5 hours

Lake Charles, Louisiana

Don't miss the Festival Capital of Louisiana, Lake Charles, which gives NOLA a run for its money.

Where to Go: Millennium Park, USS Orleck Naval Museum and Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu

Where to Stay: You don't need to spend a fortune to get away to the Hampton Inn Lake Charles .

Where to Eat: Save room for the steaks at Ember Grille & Wine Bar.

From Houston: 143 miles, 2 hours and 15 minutes 

From Dallas: 342 miles, 5.5 hours

From San Antonio:  339 miles, 5 hours

From Austin: 404 miles, 4 hours and 45 minutes

Memphis, Tennessee

Visit the home of blues and rock 'n' roll — the likes of Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded here and Elvis and B.B. King called it home.

Where to Go: Sun Studio, Graceland, Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the National Civil Rights Museum – Lorraine Motel

Where to Stay: Stay at the iconic Peabody Hotel and watch the ducks parade in the lobby.

Where to Eat: Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken for real soul food

From Houston: 567 miles, 8 hours and 45 minutes

From Dallas: 452 miles, 6.5 hours

From San Antonio:  725 miles, 10.5 hours

From Austin: 647 miles, 9.5 hours

Dodge City, Kansas

Go back to the Wild West, where Wyatt Earp regained control of the Old West town and Westerns have been filmed.

Where to Go: Dodge City Trail of Fame, Boot Hill Museum and Dodge City Zoo

Where to Stay: Take a pick from chain hotels like the Best Western Plus Country Inn & Suites .

Where to Eat: Central Station Bar & Grill for a taste of home

From Houston: 696 miles, 10 hours and 45 minutes

From Dallas: 466 miles, 7.5 hours

From San Antonio:  658 miles, 10 hours and 15 minutes

From Austin: 628 hours, 9 hours and 45 minutes

Branson, Missouri

Head to the Ozarks, and enjoy the vacation town of Branson, a four-season resort area.

Where to Go: Sparky Free Downtown Branson Trolley, Historic Owen Theatre and Burbank Jones specialty shop

Where to Stay: There are 15 suites in the award-winning and rustic Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks Lodging .

Where to Eat: The Keeter Center is also the go-to for great food.

From Houston: 597 miles, 10 hours

From Dallas: 432 miles, 7 hours

From San Antonio:  699 miles, 11 hours

From Austin: 621 miles,  9 hours and 45 minutes

Gulfport, Mississippi

Hit the white-sand beaches of Gulfport and the Gulf Islands National Seashore on the barrier islands, and try your luck at the casinos of Mississippi.

Where to Go: Ship Island, the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies and the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum

Where to Stay:  The area is home to many cozy B&Bs, including the Guest House at Gulfport Landing .

Where to Eat: Seafood is the way to go here, and you'll find it at Half Shell Oyster House.

From Houston: 528 miles, 8 hours and 45 minutes

From Dallas: 560 miles, 8 hours and 15 minutes

From San Antonio:  598 miles, 9 hours

From Austin: 566 miles, 8.5 hours

Taos, New Mexico

Heed the calling of the slopes in one of the best ski resorts in the country surrounded by an artistic community.

Where to Go: Taos Ski Valley and the Spa and Wellness Center at the Blake

Where to Stay: The alpine resort, The Blake , puts you in the heart of it all, with its location adjacent to a ski lift.

Where to Eat: Continue the alpine adventure at the Bavarian Restaurant, serving authentic German fare.

From Houston: 893 miles, 14 hours

From Dallas: 658 miles, 10.5 hours

From San Antonio: 737 miles, 11 hours and 45 minutes

From Austin: 723 miles, 11 hours and 45 minutes

Meet where the East meets West in the Gateway City of St. Louis, well worth the drive.

Where to Go: Gateway Arch, Soldiers Memorial Military Museum, City Garden, and the Thaxton & Speakeasy

Where to Stay: Embrace the arts with a stay at the Angad Arts Hotel in the Grand Center Arts District.

Where to Eat: Pappy's Smokehouse for St. Louis-style barbeque

From Houston: 779 miles, 12 hours and 15 minutes

From Dallas: 636 miles, 10 hours

From San Antonio:  903 miles, 14 hours

From Austin: 825 miles, 13 hours

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28 Best Road Trips from Houston, Texas

Looking for awesome, fun, and interesting road trips from Houston?

Some of the most popular options are coastal drives along the Gulf of Mexico, scenic roadways through the Hill Country, and trips through desert landscapes in West Texas.

These routes offer unique scenery and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore local attractions such as beaches, wineries, and state parks.

Also Read: 50 Best Day Trips from Houston, Texas

Best Road trips from Houston within Texas

There are many great road trips that you can take from Houston without even leaving Texas.

One popular route is through the Texas Hill Country, passing through small towns and beautiful natural scenery along the way.

Or head to the Gulf beaches for some fun in the sun.

For a taste of West Texas, take a drive through Big Bend National Park or hike to the top of Guadalupe Peak.

Also Read: 18 Best weekend Getaways from Houston, Texas

San Antonio

San Antonio is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture.

Located in the heart of Texas, San Antonio is home to the Alamo, the River Walk , and several other attractions.

The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is also a great place to visit.

It preserves the missions: Mission San Jose, Mission Concepcion, Mission San Juan Capistrano, and Mission Espada.

The Alamo with the other missions is a UNESCO world heritage site.

There are also a variety of activities and attractions to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.

The drive from Houston to San Antonio is about 3 hours.

San Antonio is, undoubtedly, one of the best weekend getaways from Houston.

Austin , located on the banks of the Colorado River, is one of the best weekend trips in Texas for music lovers.

It is known as the live music capital of the world.

This vibrant city is home to countless venues where you can enjoy all types of music, from rock and blues to hip hop and country. 

In addition, the city’s many restaurants, bars, and shops make it a great place for foodies and shopaholics alike.

Austin is also close to many outdoor attractions, such as the Barton Creek Greenbelt and the McKinney Falls State Park.

The drive from Houston to Austin is also about 3 hours.

Dallas Fort Worth

The Dallas/Fort Worth area is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a weekend of fun and excitement.

Dallas is home to several famous museums including the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which chronicles the life and death of President John F. Kennedy.

Fort Worth is home to the Fort Worth Zoo, the Kimbell Art Museum, the National Cowgirl Museum and the Hall of Fame.

A major attraction is the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards, which offers a taste of the old west.

The drive from Houston to Dallas is about 4 hours.

Sam Houston National Forest

If you’re looking for a road trip that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then the Sam Houston National Forest is the perfect destination.

This nature reserve offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, and bird watching.

The forest also has several campsites where you can set up your tent or RV for a night or two.

The popular Lone Star Hiking Trail runs through the forest and the section is perfect for a day hike.

Plan a road trip to Arlington to enjoy the thrill rides at Six Flags amusement park!

Here you will find some of the best roller coasters in the country, including the world’s tallest coaster, the Titan.

There are also many other attractions in the area, such as the Arlington Museum of Art, the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame, and the AT&T Stadium.

Arlington also has beautiful street art, bbq, and great hiking trails nearby.

Galveston is a beautiful island city located on the Gulf of Mexico.

The city offers many different activities such as sunbathing on the beaches, fishing, sailing and exploring the Historic Downtown Strand District.

There are also many museums to visit, such as the Texas Seaport Museum and the Galveston Railroad Museum.

You can also explore nearby areas such as Texas City and Bolivar peninsula on this road trip.

Popular things to do in Texas City include Texas City Museum, which has exhibits on the city’s history, and the Nessler Park, which is a great place for picnics.

On Bolivar Peninsula, you can visit Crystal Beach and Port Bolivar Lighthouse.

The drive from Houston to Galveston is about 1 hour and 30 mins.

Beaumont is another great road trip destination from Houston.

This city offers a variety of activities, such as golfing, fishing, and visiting the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can go hiking or biking in the Big Thicket National Preserve.

Beaumont is also home to many great restaurants and bars, so you can enjoy some delicious food and drinks while you’re in town.

Washington County

Looking for something that combines history, bbq, and bluebonnets?

Washington County is just an hour’s drive away from Houston and makes an excellent road trip in the Lone Star State.

This county is home to many different attractions, such as the Brenham Heritage Museum, Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, the Antique Rose Emporium, and the Blue Bell Creameries.

You can also take a scenic drive down the Chappell Hill Bluebonnet Trail.

If you’re looking for a place to stay overnight, there are several bed and breakfasts in the area.

College Station

College Station is a great road trip destination for Aggie fans or anyone who loves Texas A&M University.

This city is home to the main campus of the university, as well as many other attractions such as the George Bush Presidential Library, Messina Hof Winery, and Historic Bryan.

There are also many different restaurants and bars in the area, so you can enjoy some delicious food and drinks while you’re in town.

The drive from Houston to College Station is about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Rockport is one of our favorite beach towns on the Texas Gulf Coast.

This town is known for its beautiful beaches, fishing, and bird watching.

The beach here is the cleanest in Texas!

Walk along the charming downtown, step into the boutiques for seashells and souvenirs, or stop at the Winery by the Bay!

While you’re in town, make sure to visit the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site and the Texas Maritime Museum.

The drive from Houston to Rockport is about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

South Padre Island

Looking for a beach weekend getaway?

South Padre Island is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

This island paradise is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and fun activities such as parasailing, horseback riding, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.

South Padre Island is also known as the spring break capital of Texas and is extremely crowded during March.

Read: Houston to South Padre Island Road Trip Planner

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is a beautiful coastal city located on the coast in South Texas.

This city is known for its beautiful beaches , great fishing, and exciting nightlife.

Corpus Christi also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with many museums, art galleries, and live music venues.

Some of the most popular things to do in Corpus Christi include visiting the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, going on a dolphin-watching tour, and exploring the Texas State Aquarium.

The drive from Houston to Corpus Christi is about 3 hours 30 minutes.

Port Aransas

Port Aransas is a small beach town located on Mustang Island off the coast of Texas.

This town is known as the fishing capital of Texas.

It is popular for its family-friendly vibes, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere.

Just a short drive away from Port A, you will find nature parks such as Mustang Island State Park and Padre Island National Seashore.

The drive from Houston to Port Aransas is about 4 hours.

Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park is a great place to go for a swim, hike, fish, or bird watch.

This state park is located on Mustang Island, which is a barrier island off the coast of Texas.

The park has over five miles of beachfront, making it a great place to enjoy the sun and the surf.

There are also many different hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing and bird watching.

Padre Island National Seashore

Padre Island National Seashore is a national park located on Padre Island, which is a barrier island off the coast of Texas.

The national seashore has over 70 miles of beaches, making it the longest stretch of undeveloped beaches in the United States.

This is a great place to go for a swim, sunbathe, fish, hike, or photograph the interesting sand dunes.

There are also many different bird-watching opportunities.

The national park is also home to 5 species of Atlantic green sea turtles including the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg , located in the Texas Hill Country, is one of our favorite road trips from Houston.

This city is known for its German heritage, beautiful parks and gardens, great shopping, and delicious food.

Some of the most popular attractions in Fredericksburg include the National Museum of the Pacific War, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, and the Main Street.

The National Museum of the Pacific War is one of the best military museums in America.

Here you can see a variety of exhibits on the Pacific Theater of World War II, as well as a variety of historic artifacts.

While you’re visiting Fredericksburg, spend some time exploring the rolling hills of Texas wine country on Highway 290.

Texas Hill Country Bluebonnets

In spring, this is one of our favorite road trips from Houston, Texas.

The wildflowers are blooming and the scenery is beautiful!

Some of our favorite places to see bluebonnets in the Texas Hill Country include Muleshoe Bend, Marble Falls, and Burnet.

Houston to Texas Hill Country distance is about 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on where you go.

Waco is a city located in Central Texas and one of our favorite road trips from Houston for kids.

This city is known for being the home of Baylor University, as well as Magnolia Market at the Silos from the TV show Fixer Upper.

Other popular attractions in Waco include the Dr. Pepper Museum, the Waco Mammoth National Monument , and the Suspension Bridge.

Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Texas.

The park is home to a variety of different landscapes including deserts, mountains, and canyons.

There are also many different hiking trails, making it a great place to explore.

The drive from Houston to Big Bend National Park is about 9 hours 30 mins while the distance from Houston to Big Bend is 605 miles.

One great option for a road trip from Houston is to East Texas .

This beautiful region nestled in the piney woods offers numerous opportunities for hiking and camping.

Enjoy hiking in the sprawling East Texas state parks like Caddo Lake State Park and Tyler State Park.

Check out the historic buildings in charming small towns like Jefferson and Nacogdoches.

From hot air balloon festivals to interesting museums, there is an endless array of attractions in this magical corner of Texas.

Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle

Embark on an epic journey down historic Route 66 in the Texas Panhandle!

While in Amarillo , be sure to visit the Cadillac Ranch and the Big Texan Steakhouse.

The Historic Route 66 district downtown is also a must-see attraction.

Visit the Palo Duro Canyon State Park , the second-largest canyon in America.

Stop in small towns like Shamrock and Conway to see some interesting Route 66 attractions.

Best Road trips from Houston outside Texas

Planning a week-long vacation from Houston?

Why not see the famous Grand Canyon or enjoy the nightlife and gambling in Vegas?

Another great option is to head east toward Louisiana, stopping in New Orleans and other historic southern cities along the way.

Of course, for those who love music and history, a trip to Nashville or Memphis, both located just a few hours from Houston, is sure to be unforgettable.

Here are our favorite long road trip ideas from Houston.

Houston Las Vegas Road Trip

Vegas is a popular destination for Houstonians looking to get away in the holidays.

The drive from Houston to Vegas is about 23 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Interesting stops along the way include Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Flagstaff, Arizona.

Of course, the main attraction in Vegas is the gambling and nightlife.

Be sure to visit some of the famous casinos like Caesar’s Palace and the Venetian.

If you’re looking for a more low-key vacation, there are also plenty of great shows and kid-friendly museums to enjoy in Las Vegas.

Plan this trip now: Houston to Las Vegas Road Trip

Grand Canyon National Park Road Trip from H-Town

The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States.

This massive canyon, carved out by the Colorado River, is truly a sight to behold.

There are many different ways to explore the Grand Canyon, including hiking, rafting, and taking a scenic drive.

The drive from Houston to the Grand Canyon is about 20 hours, without breaks.

Of course, there are many different attractions to see along the way, including the Petrified Forest National Park and Monument Valley.

Houston California Road Trip

California is the perfect destination for a long road trip.

This massive state has so much to offer, from the beaches of San Diego to the mountains of Lake Tahoe.

Of course, no trip to California would be complete without a visit to Disneyland or Universal Studios Hollywood.

The drive from Houston to California is about 26 hours, depending on where you go.

Houston Colorado Drive

Colorado is a great destination for a road trip, especially if you’re looking to do some hiking and camping.

There are many different scenic routes to take for the Texas to Colorado trip , depending on your interests.

The drive from Houston to Denver, Colorado is about 16 hours.

If you’re looking to add some adventure to your trip, consider driving through the Rocky Mountains.

Road Trip from Houston to New Orleans

New Orleans is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the South.

This historic city is known for its French Quarter, music scene, and delicious food.

The drive from Houston to New Orleans is about five and a half hours.

Of course, there are many different things to see and do along the way.

Houston to Atlanta Road Trip

Atlanta is a popular destination for Houstonians looking to getaway.

The drive from Houston to Atlanta is about 13 hours, without stopping.

Of course, there are many different things to see and do along the way, including visiting the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola.

For those who love history, a visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is a must-do.

Houston to Tennesse Road trip

Tennessee is a great destination for a road trip, especially if you’re a fan of country music.

The drive from Houston to Nashville, Tennessee is about 13 hours.

Of course, there are many different things to see and do along the way, including Memphis and Jackson.

Memphis is home to many different museums and historical sites including Graceland and Beale Street.

You can also visit the famous Smoky mountains on your road trip.

Houston is a great city for taking road trips because of the proximity to beautiful natural landscapes, charming small towns, and bustling cities.

Whether you’re looking for pristine beaches, rugged mountain views, or street art and museums, there’s a perfect road trip from Houston to explore this summer.

No matter where you decide to go on your road trip from Houston, you’re sure to have a great time.

Let us know your favorite road trips from Houston!

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10 of the Best U.S. Road Trips for Families

Create memories with your kids on these short but sweet journeys that feature stunning scenery and unique landmarks.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

A road trip is a classic American vacation, but it takes planning to make it great — especially when little ones are involved. To help you plan your family's next journey, we've rounded up some of the best road trips around the United States for families with kids, from single-day jaunts to journeys that can take more than a week. With stops the whole crew will enjoy, these drives are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Charleston, South Carolina, to Savannah, Georgia

Explore two popular Southern cities on one trip with this short-distance getaway. The drive from Charleston straight to Savannah takes just under two hours, but we'd recommend extending your itinerary over a few days so you can stop to enjoy the outstanding hotels and beaches along the way. You can stay at The Sanctuary on Kiawah Island an hour south of Charleston, or fill up the tank for a beach day at Hilton Head , only an hour farther. Once you've passed through Savannah, drive one more hour south for a stay at The Cloister at Sea Island . This five-star resort is another good option for families, with plenty of swimming, fishing, and nature walks.

San Diego to Los Angeles, California

At around two hours, this drive is easy for parents and just long enough to be exciting for the kids. San Diego, Los Angeles, and the stretches of coast between them are packed with beaches and a plethora of crowd-pleasing attractions. Explore the San Diego Zoo, Legoland California, and Disneyland, about a 30-minute from downtown L.A. in Anaheim.

New York City or Boston to Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Whether you choose to stay in a shingled cottage or beachfront apartment, your kids will fall hard for the Cape . Wellfleet is a particularly great destination for families, reachable in two hours from Boston or five hours from New York City. You'll want to stop in other charming towns along the way, like Falmouth and Chatham, before settling in the sands of the Outer Cape. Once you're there, no trip is complete without a visit to Mac's on the Pier , where you can gaze out at the harbor and feast on whole belly clams. Exploring one of the Cape's kettle ponds, which families often have all to themselves, is also a must, as is checking out the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary , home to five miles of trails and salt marshes.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Beginning in Orange County's Dana Point and reaching north to San Francisco, this popular drive can be completed in under eight hours. But why keep it short? With many major stops — from Los Angeles to Carmel-by-the-Sea — you could make this road trip last for days. Driving northward, head to the top of the Topanga Lookout in Malibu for incredible views of the San Fernando Valley. A few hours north in Santa Ynez wine country, relax with a glass of vino as you plot your visit to Hearst Castle. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the media magnate's vast estate, with its sprawling gardens, Roman-style pool, and extensive art collection.

New York City to Philadelphia to the Poconos

At Woodloch Resort in the Pocono Mountains, you'll feel like you're back at summer camp — in a good way. On and off the property, there's plenty to do, including golf, paintball, fishing, and more. A variety of accommodation options are available, too, perfect for families of any size. Whether or not you're headed to the Woodloch, though, the Poconos are an easy getaway for East Coasters. New York City is about a two-hour drive and Philadelphia is about three hours; the two cities can easily be combined with a Poconos visit for a fun multiday adventure.

Boston, Massachusetts, to Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, Vermont, is a great destination in all seasons for families road tripping within New England. Just three hours from Boston, the town offers some of the East Coast's best skiing in wintertime and an abundance of outdoor adventure in summer. On your warm-weather visit, cool off with the kids at the Waterbury Reservoir in Waterbury Center State Park , or enjoy the fresh mountain air with a hiking or biking excursion.

There are few roads as iconic as Route 66 , so why not take your kids on this classic American trip? Whether you embark on the full journey from Chicago to Los Angeles or opt for a smaller section, you're bound to have a memorable time. Little ones will love the route's kitschy roadside attractions (world's biggest ketchup bottle, anyone?), while adults will be wowed by the scenery, from the wide-open spaces of west Texas to the mountains of Santa Fe.

Tucson to the Grand Canyon, Arizona

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Take in some of the country's best views on a multiday road trip through Arizona . Start in Tucson and visit Saguaro National Park to see the namesake cacti before heading to Scottsdale. Next up, drive to the stunning, red rock-surrounded town of Sedona. Finally, continue north to Grand Canyon National Park for a couple of days in the great outdoors, reveling in this massive natural wonder.

Rocky Mountain Loop from Denver

If you'd like to swap red rocks for snowy mountaintops, set off on a Colorado road trip through some of the state's incredible national parks and charming small towns. From Denver, head northwest to Boulder and Estes Park, a perfect home base for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park . Drive farther into the mountains to check out towns like Glenwood Springs, Telluride, and Durango, all located in the western part of the state. Spend a day at Mesa Verde National Park , home to ancient Native cave dwellings that will fascinate kids and grown-ups alike before turning back east. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Colorado Springs are great stops en route back to Denver.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Beautiful year-round but especially colorful in spring and fall, the Blue Ridge Parkway makes for an excellent family road trip. Connecting Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the Blue Ridge Parkway offers scenic mountain and foliage views across the Appalachian landscapes of Virginia and North Carolina. Plus, there are plenty of great hikes for all skill levels and places to camp along the parkway if you want to spend a few nights under the stars.

Related Articles

Dallas to Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

See the best of West Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona as you hit the open road on this Dallas to Arizona road trip itinerary!

Straight through from Dallas to Flagstaff in the middle of Arizona is 14 hours driving time on I-40.

But that’s no fun.

I love a good road trip, and if I have a long trip to complete, you know I’m going to be researching different places to stop along the way.

Below, you’ll find just that for each step of your journey from the heart of Texas into the Grand Canyon State.

I’ve also shared ways to extend your trip into various areas of Arizona.

In short, prepare for an epic road trip into the Southwest filled with national parks visits, roadside attractions, and vintage Americana!

Dallas to Arizona Road Trip Itinerary: Stop-by-Stop

NOTE: If you’re looking for a place to camp while you’re in the Dallas area, I highly recommend the Vineyards campground in Grapevine, Texas .

Not only is this one of the prettiest campgrounds we’ve stayed at, but it also has huge lots, water sports rentals, a private beach, and daily activities. It’s like summer camp without the counselors!

Stop 1: Abilene, Texas

Begin your road trip by heading out of Dallas towards New Mexico.

Pick up I-20 on the western side of Fort Worth and follow it 150 miles to our first stop in Abilene.

NOTE: About 75 miles west of Fort Worth, you can stop at Palo Pinto State Park , Texas’ newest state park. While it isn’t fully completed yet, the state park will eventually have hiking, camping, fishing, and non-motorized boating. If you’re planning to visit this area in 2025 and beyond, check to see which of the park’s planned recreational activities has been completed.

Next, we need to stop in Abilene, Texas , where you’ll find plenty of Texas history and arts-themed activities.

The Grace Museum is excellent for the entire family with kid-friendly exhibits, history areas, photography gallery, and more across 5 different sections.

For even more American history, step into yesteryear at Frontier Texas!, an interactive history museum tracing the steps of both the Native Americans and the pioneers during Westward Expansion.

Your childhood literary favorites are larger than life along the storybook trail through downtown Abilene, where you can find sculptures of Horton (from Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who ), Charlotte and Wilbur (from E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web ), and so many more. See the entire route on the storybook sculpture map here .

Abilene Zoo boasts more than 250 species across 8 areas of the park. In addition to viewing the animals, kids can go gem mining, ride a train, go fishing in Tittle Lake, and go on behind the scenes tours.

Stop 2: Carlsbad, New Mexico

Today, we’re visiting the oil fields of West Texas on our way to Carlsbad, New Mexico.

Keep on I-20 until you get to Big Spring, and then take Texas Highway 176 from Big Spring to New Mexico Highway 62. Highway 62 will take you directly into Carlsbad.

Once you leave Big Spring and Interstate I-20, the area becomes very remote very quickly, and you will likely go miles without seeing anything but oil rigs bobbing up and down.

As someone who’s from a place without any oil production, I found this area fascinating, but I also freely admit that it is rough and tumble, and not the place that I’d like to have car trouble.

Fill up and eat before you leave the interstate because the gas stations and food options between Big Spring and Carlsbad are sparse at best.

Once you get to Carlsbad, you’ve got plenty to do, see, and eat as it’s easily the largest city in the southeastern corner of New Mexico.

Here, you can pick up supplies from Walmart, dine out at one of the area’s many restaurants, and explore 2 different national parks.

Start with 2 days at Carlsbad Caverns , one of the most incredible cave systems we’ve visited so far.

Don’t forget to book the ranger-led King’s Palace Tour for extra time exploring a less-traveled section of the caverns. There is a small fee associated with the tour, but it’s worth it!

Just 30 minutes south of Carlsbad Caverns is the less-visited but still amazing Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Located on the border of New Mexico and Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park boasts 8 of the 10 highest peaks in Texas.

The park’s development has been an emphasis on hiking in the park, as many of the most spectacular overlooks are accessible only on foot. (This is in direct opposition to other national parks, like Shenandoah National Park , which are organized around a roadway.)

You’ll want to bring a good pair of hiking boots, a day pack, and plenty of water to see the Salt Basin sand dunes, Frijole Ranch, McKittrick Canyon, and more.

If you’re not sure what you need for this adventure, check out my gear guides:

Best Hiking Clothes for Women

Best Hiking Gear for Kids + Printable Checklist

Best Toddler Hiking Shoes

Suggested place to camp near Carlsbad, New Mexico : Lake Brantley State Park, which I think is one of New Mexico’s best campgrounds . This inexpensive campground has areas for RV and primitive camping. While it feels remote, the campground is just minutes from Carlsbad on Highway 285.

FREE U.S. National Parks Checklist

Keep up with every national park adventure with this 3-page printable checklist, exclusive to our email subscribers.

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Thank you! You can download your printable national parks checklist here or by clicking the link in your inbox.

Stop 3: Roswell, New Mexico

Yes, it is weird, and that’s just the way that Roswell likes it.

This little town’s claim to fame occurred back in 1947 when a rancher about 80 miles away claimed to have found pieces of a flying saucer . The military quickly got involved, but the plot just thickens from there.

Was it a weather balloon prototype? Some sort of secret military craft? Or something truly alien?

Whatever was going on all those decades ago still has the world enraptured as Roswell sees visitors from all corners of the globe (including the Camping Kiddos since I can’t resist a weird locale!).

From the UFO-shaped streetlights to the massive alien-themed murals, you quickly get the idea that this town loves the hype.

If you’d like to dive into the strangeness that started all of it, head into the International UFO Museum and Research Center . Here, you’ll get detailed accounts of what happened back in 1947 and beyond, including video and audio interview clips, newspaper articles, and other ephemera.

Even if you’re not a believer, the kitschy alien displays (with moving UFO!) and the extensive library are worth a stop.

Stop 4: Alamogordo, New Mexico

Add in your second national park of this trip when you visit Alamogordo.

Here, you can explore the incredible White Sands National Park, which only became a national park in 2020 after decades of being a national monument.

See how you can effectively spend one day in White Sands with hikes, the Junior Ranger program, ranger-led events, and more.

You’ll absolutely want to spend part of your day sand sledding, so check out my complete guide to White Sands sledding tips !

Extend your trip with even more incredible places to visit near White Sands and Alamogordo , ranging from space history museums to mountain hikes.

You really need at least 2 or 3 days here to fully explore everything. Don’t forget to try the pistachio ice cream at Pistachioland, a working pistachio farm just north of Alamogordo.

Suggested place to camp near Alamogordo : We stayed at the Alamogordo/ White Sands KOA in Alamogordo, and it was wonderful. The owners are incredibly nice, offering up free coffee and hot chocolate in the mornings, a huge game room, and a movie library.

Stop 5: Santa Fe, New Mexico

Take Highway 54 out of Alamogordo and then follow it out of Tularosa.

You’ll pick up New Mexico 3, which is a very rural road, at Duran. Follow New Mexico 3 to Encino, then hop onto 285 North towards Santa Fe. While 285 is a bigger road than New Mexico 3, there are still very, very few gas stations and food options along the way.

Stop at Clines Corners, which is has been serving customers since historic Route 66 came through here. (Nearby I-40 is now overlaid on Route 66 in this part of the state.)

Cline Corners is huge with multiple gas pumps, RV parking, a convenience store, and a gift shop.

You’re less than an hour to Santa Fe from here, so keep on Highway 285 and you’ll run straight into Santa Fe.

Stop 6: Albuquerque, New Mexico

Did you know that Santa Fe was established in 1607, the same year that the English colony of Jamestown was settled?

Unlike Jamestown, Santa Fe has thrived since its first days, and it is now a hub of art and culture in the Southwest.

You cannot visit Santa Fe without spending some time exploring the historic downtown area. You’re walking in the footsteps of Native American traders, Spanish monks, and early European explorers who traveled the Old Santa Fe Trail.

Visit the Museum of New Mexico History to get a grasp on the major events that have happened in the state. As part of this experience, you’ll be able to walk into the original Governor’s Palace, which is the oldest public building in the United States.

The Plaza outside of the Palace is a great place to eat lunch while listening to one of the live musicians that are often set up here.

After lunch, explore some of the other historic spots within walking distance, including the Loretto Chapel and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.

Elsewhere in Santa Fe, you can’t miss Meow Wolf: House of Eternal Return , which is a mind-bending interactive art project.

Suggested place to camp in Santa Fe : We enjoyed our time at the Santa Fe KOA, which had on-site gem mining, a game room with arcade games, and a playground. The sites were small but level and shaded. There were lots of kids around, which my children appreciated.

Stop 7: Grants, New Mexico

As you set out from Albuquerque, the landscape outside of your car will be filled with rolling red deserts, sagebrush, and craggy cliffs.

However, as you approach Grants, New Mexico, that landscape begins to resemble the surface of the moon.

Huge chunks of a matte black substance push their way past the grass on either side of the road, and you might be left wondering if an asphalt truck blew up on this section of the highway.

But the answer is one that’s far more exciting than a malfunctioning piece of road machinery.

You’re seeing the results of volcanic activity that reshaped this part of western New Mexico between 700,000 and just 3,900 years ago.

You can explore more of this incredible natural wonder at the 2 main sites near Grants, New Mexico.

El Malpais National Monument

This NPS sites allows you to hike through and learn about the lava flows.

You’ll see how the unique geological formations here provided shelter to generations of Native Americans, particularly the Zuni and Acoma tribes, as well as Spanish explorers, the Navajo nation, and pioneers.

There are a variety of surface trails that allow you to access the different lava flow areas. More adventurous visitors can take a self-guided tour into one of the many lava tubes, but you’ll want to bring the appropriate safety gear.

The national monument is open year round, although some of the caves are off limits to the public during the winter to protect resident bats.

Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano

A privately owned site, the Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano is another great way to explore this fascinating landscape.

It’s not as large as the nearby NPS site, but it’s still worth a visit.

Included in the admission cost is a museum filled with Native American artifacts and 2 self-guided hikes. The Ice Cave stays chilly year round with naturally occurring sheets of ice on the walls.

It does close in the winter from November 1-March 1.

Stop 8: Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

The next major stop on I-40 West is going to be the exit for the Painted Desert Visitors Center at Petrified Forest National Park.

At the visitors center, you can grab a map of the park, pick up a souvenir, watch the park’s history movie, or have a picnic.

There’s also a gas station here. It’s really expensive, but convenient. There’s no other gas at this exit or anywhere in the park for another 25-30 miles.

Once you’re in the park, you’ll be able to see the southern end of the Painted Desert, which has red, orange, grey, blue, purple, and yellow layers in the worn away rock.

For a larger national park, it’s surprisingly easy to tour Petrified Forest National Park in one day . By sticking to the main park road and touring north to south, you’ll be able to see the park’s highlights in a relatively short period of time.

The best way to see the park is to complete a couple of the easy hikes in Petrified Forest , which will allow you to get into the heart of the petrified wood fields, the Painted Desert, Blue Mesa, and more.

On the end of the park closest to Holbrook, you’ll be able to see fields of petrified trees from the forest that once stood here more than 250 million years ago.

Suggested place to camp near Petrified Forest : Holbrook/ Petrified Forest KOA, which I think is the best camping near Petrified Forest National Park . You can’t RV camp inside the park, so the closest place to leave your rig is at this KOA. We loved the daily breakfast and dinner options, heated pool, and large playground.

Stop 8: Route 66 Towns

There are 2 towns on the original Route 66 that are worth stopping at during your road trip from Dallas to Arizona.

First, Holbrook, Arizona, is home to several fun spots, including the inspiration for the Cozy Cone Motel in Cars . We stayed in one of the sister locations of the Wigwam Villages while in Cave City, Kentucky !

Holbrook also has a couple of shops that sell petrified wood and other minerals. It’s illegal to take wood from the national park, so this is a good alternative if you’d like a souvenir.

Winslow, Arizona, is about 30 minutes west, and it’s bigger than Holbrook with even more reasons to stop.

For fans of ‘70s rock, you won’t want to miss Standin’ on a Corner Park in the heart of downtown Winslow, Arizona.

This little town was immortalized in the second verse of The Eagles’ 1972 hit, “Take It Easy.” Winslow is noted in the song and was inspired by a road trip that the members took as they were trying to finish their debut album.

>> Check out more things to do in Winslow, Arizona on Route 66 here! <<

Another interesting stop near Winslow is Homolovi Ruins State Park, where you can hike to a Mormon pioneer cemetery and see 2 Native American living areas dating from 1000-1300 CE.

Bring a picnic to eat under one of the covered shelters. Several have incredible views of the desert. You might even see some of the native donkeys that roam the park.

Stop 9: Meteor Crater

If you’ve ever wanted to feel small, Meteor Crater is an excellent place to do so.

Created by a meteor about 50,000 years ago, this massive site is so much more than just a big hole in the ground.

Of course, the crater itself is a highlight—and you must make time for the 45-minute tour of the crater rim (included in the cost of admission).

You can also see and touch a piece of the meteor, walk through multiple interactive museum areas, experience a 4D ride about space and the crater, and shop for space-themed souvenirs.

Kids should complete the scavenger hunt booklets to receive a free science ranger patch.

Meteor Crater was one of my kids’ favorite things to do—and they still talk about visiting here regularly. It’s SO much more than just a hole in the ground!

Final Stop: Flagstaff (and Beyond)

While I’m ending the road trip itinerary here in Flagstaff, this doesn’t really mean goodbye.

Flagstaff is the central Arizona, so you’re set up for ending your road trip here, or continuing to explore the Grand Canyon State.

There are several other incredible places to visit in Arizona depending on where you’d like to your end destination to be!

You could head south to Sedona, Phoenix, and Saguaro National Park.

Or, you could continue on west to Kingman, additional Route 66 towns, and, ultimately Las Vegas.

To add a third national park to your trip, you can head north from Flagstaff to visit the Grand Canyon. Check out our guides to make sure your visit is great:

Guide to the Grand Canyon with Kids

1 Day Grand Canyon Itinerary

7 Day Grand Canyon Itinerary

Visiting Monument Valley with kids is a guaranteed amazing family vacation!

Located on the border of Arizona and Utah, this stretch of land is one of the most beautiful parts of Arizona that we’ve visited.

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Movies | ‘Gasoline Rainbow’ is a glorious teen road trip

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Movies | ‘good man’ or ‘danger to the community’ dueling views presented for pasadena radiologist in devil’s slide crash, movies | review: ‘gasoline rainbow’ is a glorious teen road trip, we are in a hybrid film world, part documentary, part fiction.

In sibling directors Bill and Turner Ross ‘ latest, “Gasoline Rainbow,” five Oregon teens just out of high school make their meandering way some 500 miles to reach the coast for what’s been billed as the “End of the World” party.

This being the Ross brothers — the makers of the Texas-Mexico border portrait “Western” and “Bloody Nose, Empty Pockets,” in which they brought 22 people to a Las Vegas dive bar and asked them to act as though it was closing the next day — we are in a hybrid film world, part documentary, part fiction. Our characters — Micah, Nathaly, Nichole, Tony, Makai — are nonprofessional actors and their journey is a loosely constructed series of encounters that mostly unfold naturally.

It’s a filmmaking approach that can, in its weaker moments, result in the worst of both worlds: the rambling narrative of documentary and the manufactured quality of fiction. But on the whole, the Ross brothers’ observational, immersive filmmaking gets close to something bracingly real.

In the case of “Gasoline Rainbow,” which opens in theaters Friday, much is expressed by the land the teens traverse. Whether by car or on foot, their travels take them under highway overpasses, through sprawling train yards and along long rows of wind turbines. Global warming is mentioned only once, but it hovers over their uncertain future. They make their way across baren, dry lands and industrial blight. The name of that party is no coincidence.

Bleak as that may be, “Gasoline Rainbow” — which would fit comfortably alongside films like Alma Har’el’s “Bombay Beach” and Andrea Arnold’s “American Honey” — is most concerned with the question of: So what now? For these young people, unsure of what to do with their lives, getting out on the road provides plenty of answers. The world they’ve been left by older generations may be damaged. “Do you know what the difference is between kids and adults?” one elder tells them. “Adults aren’t supervised.” But there is beauty to be found, like shimmering pools of gasoline, if you’re willing to hit the road and make some new friends.

The answer lies most in community — in daring to leave the house, meet strangers and find like-minded souls. Perhaps more than anything, the Ross brothers — with a keen eye for American eccentrics — are interested in gathering together all the most interesting people they can find. And the spirit of camaraderie that results warms just as much as the bonfires gathered round in “Gasoline Rainbow.”

“Gasoline Rainbow”

3 stars out of 4

Running time: 110 minutes

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