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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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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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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

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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The Great Texas Road Trip: Your Essential Itinerary

A Texas road trip itinerary offers an unforgettable adventure through a state that never fails to amaze visitors with its unique characteristics. From the vast landscapes to the rich culture, there are plenty of reasons why everyone should embark on a road trip through Texas at least once.

Firstly, Texas boasts an incredible diversity of landscapes, ranging from the rugged deserts of Big Bend National Park to the lush greenery of the Hill Country. The Gulf Coast offers beautiful beaches, while the Panhandle features wide-open plains. This geographical variety ensures there’s something to satisfy every traveler’s wanderlust.

Texas is known for its larger-than-life personality and a deep-rooted sense of pride. The people are famously friendly, and the state’s motto, “Everything is bigger in Texas,” holds true in its hospitality, cuisine, and attractions. From authentic barbecue joints to lively honky-tonk bars, the Texan culture is a blend of southern charm and southwestern flair.

History buffs will revel in Texas’s rich historical legacy. The state played a pivotal role in America’s history, from the Alamo’s iconic stand to its cowboy heritage. Museums, historic sites, and small towns provide insight into the past, making Texas a historian’s dream. Moreover, Texas is home to vibrant cities like Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, each with its unique character and attractions.

The Texan cuisine alone is worth the trip. From mouthwatering barbecue to Tex-Mex delights, the food is a journey in itself. Don’t forget to try a famous Texas breakfast taco, and be sure to explore local food trucks for authentic flavors.

Perfect Texas Road Trip Itinerary

The sense of freedom and adventure that comes with a road trip through Texas is incomparable. The wide-open highways, stunning sunsets, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace create a memorable experience. Whether you’re chasing wildflowers in spring or attending a rodeo in summer, Texas offers year-round road trip possibilities.

Begin in Dallas, known for its museums, art and food scenes, and the sports teams! Get your cowboy boots at Fort Worth and then visit the Texas Panhandle. Then head south to Austin, the live music capital of the world! See the State Capitol and enjoy kayaking on Lady Bird Lake. Head west to the Hill Country, famed for wineries and enchanting small towns like Fredericksburg.

See the San Antonio Riverwalk and the Alamo, then drive east to Houston and indulge in some space exploration! If you have the time, drive south to Big Bend and enjoy the vistas of West Texas! Plan an epic Texas road trip using our detailed guide below.

Plan the Perfect Texas Road Trip Itinerary

Dallas – 2 Days

Start your Texas road trip in Dallas. The city is well connected by air and also has rental car companies.

Dallas is a diverse city with plenty of urban attractions including museums, city parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

A must visit attraction is the Sixth Floor Museum in Dealey Plaza in Downtown Dallas.

The Sixth Floor Museum is located inside the Texas School Book Depository and is dedicated to the life and assassination of John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963.

Another great museum in Dallas is the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.

The Perot Museum has plenty of interactive science exhibits including dinosaur skeletons and is a favorite with kids.

The Nasher Sculpture Center has an impressive collection of modern sculptures.

The beautiful street art in Deep Ellum and Bishops Arts District is a favorite for photo ops in the city.

Take a walk by the Trinity River and admire the view of the impressive Dallas Skyline including the Reunion Tower skyscraper at night.

You can also enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the top of the Reunion Tower.

More Texas Travel Guides Best Places to Visit in Texas Best Road Trips in Texas Amazing Places to see bluebonnets in Texas

Fort Worth – 1 Day

Wish to experience the wild west on your Texas road trip?

Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards!

The Fort Worth Stockyards is a historic area filled with cowboys, honky tonk bars, and delicious barbecue.

Visitors can watch a cattle drive through the streets as well as see a mock shootout.

In addition to shopping for souvenirs, visitors can enjoy rodeos and ride a mechanical bull at the stockyards.

Texas Panhandle – 2 Days

From Dallas, we recommend taking the road north through the Texas Panhandle to Amarillo.

Amarillo is one of the most underrated big cities in the Lone Star State.

Spend some time in Amarillo see the historic district, museums, murals, and restaurants in the city.

Visit the iconic Big Texan Steak Ranch and try their 72 oz steak challenge!

Then see some of the major attractions near Amarillo including the famous Cadillac Ranch.

This section of the Texas road trip will be along historic Route 66.

Cadillac Ranch is an essential stop on any Texas itinerary.

At Cadillac Ranch, you will see 10 Cadillac cars half buried in the ground with their noses sticking up.

It’s a popular location to take fun photos with your family.

Drive to the Palo Duro Canyon State Park from Amarillo on a day trip.

The state park is only an hour away from the city and is home to Palo Duro Canyon, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Texas.

The state park is famous for hiking, camping, mountain biking, and stargazing.

After seeing the Panhandle, make your way south to Central Texas.

Both Austin and the scenic Texas Hill Country are located here and are popular tourist attractions in the state.

Optional: Waco

On your way to Austin, you can visit Waco.

Waco is home to several attractions including the Waco Mammoth National Monument and the Dr. Pepper museum.

Located on the banks of the Brazos River, Waco is also one of the best places to go kayaking in Texas.

Downtown Waco has the ultimate small Town Texas vibe: here you will find Charming cafes, art galleries, boutiques, and pretty murals.

It makes a great stop on the Texas road trip, especially for kids.

Austin – 2 Days

The modern city of Austin is the capital of Texas.

Must-see attractions in the city include the Texas State Capitol building, Barton Springs Municipal pool, Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, and Mount Bonnell.

The Texas State Capitol is one of the most beautiful state capitols in America and can be seen on a self guided tour.

Austin is also famous for its live music scene and the diverse culinary options.

The festivals that are hosted here throughout the year include SXSW (South by Southwest), Austin City Limits Festival, and the Pecan Street Festival.

You can easily listen to live music in any of the city’s bars and clubs.

Austin might be famous for its urban attractions but the city is also surrounded by spectacular scenery of the Hill Country and is a heaven for outdoor lovers.

For a relaxed day trip from Austin , visit the famous swimming hole of Hamilton Pool Preserve.

Hamilton Pool is located on the western edge of Austin and is known for its beautiful natural rock pool, sparkling waterfall, and great hiking trails.

During the summers, Hamilton Pool is one of our favorite places to visit to beat the Texas sun.

Optional: Texas Hill Country

If you have more time, then explore the Hill Country from Austin on your Texas road trip.

This region of Central Texas has rolling hills, waterfalls, rivers and lakes.

The Hill Country is most scenic in spring when bluebonnets pop up all over the countryside.

You will find several charming small towns in the Hill Country such as Fredericksburg , Llano, Wimberley, and Marble Falls .

Stroll their charming Main Streets and shop for antiques and local products.

Popular natural attractions in the Texas Hill Country include Enchanted Rock Natural Area, Pedernales Falls State Park, Colorado Bend State Park, Lost Maples, and Highland Lakes.

Enchanted Rock is most beautiful during the springtime when wildflowers are in full bloom.

Float down the San Marcos River, see fall colors on the banks of the Guadalupe, hike to Gorman Falls, see the LBJ Ranch, and admire the dinosaur tracks at Canyon Lake !

Read our post on Best Things to do in the Texas Hill Country for more information.

Make your way south to San Antonio after seeing the Hill Country.

San Antonio – 2 Days

For most people San Antonio is the major attraction of any Texas road trip.

The city is home to two of the most iconic attractions in America – the Alamo and the San Antonio River Walk.

The Alamo is the site where the Texan forces held their ground for 13 days against Mexican troops in 1836.

The Spanish frontier Mission was once an old Church and has several beautiful historic murals inside it – definitely worth checking out!

Today, Alamo is a UNESCO Site and one of the most famous national parks in Texas.

The San Antonio River walk is a fantastic 4-mile linear park that follows the San Antonio River and is filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and beautiful sights.

San Antonio also has many museums for all interests, popular attractions such as the Historic Market Square, as well as amazing culinary scene.

One of the best ways to explore downtown San Antonio is on a Segway!

Natural Bridge Caverns, located about an hour away from the city, is also great to visit.

At Natural Bridge Caverns, you can see the natural marvels inside – spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

Houston – 2 Days

Houston is the largest city in Texas and one of the most famous big cities in America.

It is an essential attraction on your Texas itinerary.

Houston is famous for its museums, including the Museum of Natural Science, which features a dinosaur exhibit and an amazing Butterfly Rainforest.

The Johnson Space Center Houston complex is another popular attraction in the area.

Nasa Space Center features great interactive exhibits about space exploration and also includes IMAX theaters where you can catch 3D movies about space exploration.

Undoubtedly, Space Center Houston is one of the best things to do in Texas with kids !

Houston is also known for the Downtown Aquarium, featuring underwater tunnels that take you over sharks and stingrays.

Optional: Galveston Island

Galveston Island makes a perfect beach day trip from Houston .

Popular attractions on the island include the Historic Pleasure Pier, Galveston Railroad Museum, and Moody Gardens.

Galveston also features great seafood, shops, and the Strand Historic District.

This city is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon.

Optional: East Texas

If you love exploring hidden gems, then be sure to visit East Texas on your road trip.

Here you will find charming attractions such as Caddo Lake State Park , the Texan Christmas towns of Marshall and Jefferson, and the Rose Garden of Tyler.

Read our epic guide to the best attractions in East Texas to plan this road trip.

Corpus Christi – 1 Day

You cannot really visit Texas without visiting the Gulf Coast beaches and Texas coastal towns .

Corpus Christi is a great place to start.

The city is known for its beautiful beaches and the boardwalk.

Also Read: Best beaches in Texas to Visit Now

Must-see attractions in Corpus Christi include USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, Texas State Aquarium, and North Beach.

The USS Lexington was an aircraft carrier that was vital during World War Two.

The Texas State Aquarium is another popular Corpus Christi attraction for families with kids, featuring several beautiful underwater exhibits.

North Beach features great nature trails and is a perfect place to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

Mustang Island State Park and Padre Island National Seashore , both featuring amazing beaches, are located close to Corpus Christi.

Other Texas cities to explore near Corpus Christi include South Padre Island and Port Aransas .

After visiting the coast, drive towards the Big Bend region.

Big Bend National Park – 2 Days

Big Bend National Park is one of our favorite places to road trip in the Lone Star State.

The park is located in the far West Texas area in the Chisos desert.

Big Bend National Park is most popular for its desert landscapes and the nearby mountain range.

Popular things to do in Big Bend National Park include hiking, climbing, horseback riding, scenic drives, kayaking down the Santa Elena Canyon, and observing the desert wildlife.

Santa Elena Canyon of the Rio Grande River is one of the most scenic places in Big Bend.

Big Bend National Park is a dark sky park and offers excellent sky watching opportunities.

During your road trip in Texas, make sure to take a detour to this national park on the US Mexico border – you can experience amazing culture of both countries!

While in the Big Bend region, stop at the charming town of Marathon , stroll the Main Street of Alpine, see the ghost town of Terlingua, and admire the Prada art installation in Marfa.

Optional: El Paso

The frontier city of El Paso is a great addition to any West Texas road trip.

El Paso is located just about 4 hours away from Big Bend National Park.

The city of El Paso is famous for its cultural attractions, ethnic markets, museums, and Spanish missions.

You can spend a day walking through the historical downtown area, explore beautiful murals at San Jacinto Plaza, and admire local artists at the El Paso Museum of Art.

Franklin Mountains State Park, located near downtown El Paso, offers some great hiking opportunities.

Optional: Guadalupe Mountains National Park

If you have the time, visit this amazing National Park in West Texas.

Located near the New Mexico border, Guadalupe Mountains is a must visit for outdoor lovers.

The national park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas at over 8,000 feet.

The park has desert hiking trails, sand dunes, excellent camping, and wildlife viewing.

If you have time, we highly recommend exploring both these places on your Texas road trip.

If you’re looking for the best places to see on your Texas road trip, this guide should give you plenty of ideas!

Whether it’s adventure-seeking or culture that interests you most, we hope that our list will help inspire your itinerary.

From San Antonio and its iconic attractions like the Alamo (UNESCO site) and River Walk; to El Paso with its historical downtown area, Spanish missions, and art installations; there are so many places to explore!

When planning your road trip through the Lone Star State make sure not to miss Big Bend National Park – one of our favorite spots in the American Southwest.

Our Texas road trip itinerary promises a remarkable journey filled with diverse landscapes, warm hospitality, historical depth, vibrant cities, delectable cuisine, and a sense of adventure. Texas’s unique characteristics and cultural richness ensure that everyone should make the Lone Star State their road trip destination at least once in their lifetime.

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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!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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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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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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7 Perfect Texas Road Trips

By: Author texasonly

Looking for Texas road trips ?

Then you are in the right place!

Texas is a huge state that is best discovered by hitting the open road.

We were born and raised in the great state of Texas, and still call it home.

This means you are in good hands while exploring this list of road trips in Texas .

Famous for delicious Texas barbecue, cowboy culture, and true southern hospitality, Texas will not disappoint!

Texas road trips allow you the opportunity to explore everything that the Lone Star State has to offer.

From big cities to small towns, national parks, state parks, and everything in between, inspiring Texas quotes and captions for years!

Here are some of the best road trips in Texas for you to explore!

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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Join the texas travel community and get a free texas bucket list checklist, 1. texas road trip to the hill country.

Towns Include:

Fredericksburg

San antonio.

The beautiful Texas Hill Country draws visitors from all over the world.

People come to this part of Texas to see the beautiful rolling Texas hills and to explore the Texas wine country .

Some of our favorite Texas small towns are in this area also!

Begin your trip in the Texas State Capitol, Austin .

Here you can explore the state capitol building, eat some great food , and enjoy the live music scene that Austin is so famous for.

Austin is full of outdoor activities as well. Hike Mount Bonnell to get a great view of the area or paddle your day away on Lady Bird Johnson Lake, one of the lakes in Austin .

Of course, visitors flock to Austin’s Congress Street Bridge to see the bat colony go out for their nightly feeding.

If you drive about 45 minutes southwest of Austin, you will find the artsy community of Wimberley, Texas .

Wimberley is home to the spring-fed Jacob’s Well and the Blue Hole Regional Park , both popular Texas swimming holes.

You can also visit the popular Hamilton Pool swimming hole to swim and see one of the waterfalls in Texas as well.

During your time in the Texas small town of Wimberley, you can visit the many wineries and distilleries that call this part of the Texas Hill Country home.

Our next stop is Fredericksburg , a German settlement that today is one of the premier wine regions in Texas.

While here you will definitely want to do a wine tasting (or two) at the best wineries in Fredericksburg .

You should also stay in one of the charming family-owned bed and breakfast hotels in Fredericksburg.

This Texas road trip is great anytime, but it is especially beautiful in the spring when all of the Texas wildflowers are in bloom.

If you are visiting in spring, add the gorgeous Willow City Loop to your Texas Hill Country itinerary.

If you have extra time in Fredericksburg, consider taking a day trip to Marble Falls .

Marble Falls is a great little lakeside town containing fun, boutique shops, and an epic pie shop, Bluebonnet Cafe.

Of course, it is also a great area to see all of the Texas bluebonnets if you are visiting during the spring months.

If you have time, you can also check out nearby Johnson City, TX . Johnson City is full of history and well worth exploring!

Our final stop on this epic Texas road trip is San Antonio.

The most popular attraction in San Antonio is the San Antonio River Walk.

The River Walk is a great place to grab a great meal, drink a margarita, and do some serious people-watching.

Of course, the River Walk isn’t the only thing to do in San Antonio.

Be sure to visit the San Antonio Mission Trail which includes the famous Alamo.

San Antonio also has a great botanic garden, fabulous parks, great shopping, and there are loads of beaches and state parks near San Antonio !

2. Route 66 Road Trip in Texas

Attractions on the road trip:

• Cadillac Ranch

Amarillo and Route 66

The historic Route 66 cuts through a portion of the Texas panhandle from Oklahoma to New Mexico.

If you make the entire Texas portion of the trip, it is only 178 miles!

Granted, there aren’t a lot of towns on this Texas road trip, it is definitely one that should be on your bucket list.

Many people who stop in Amarillo while on a road trip make their way to the Big Texan Steak Ranch to try out the 72 oz steak challenge.

If you can eat the steak and all of the side items within the allotted time, your meal is free and you get your picture on the wall.

Of course, along the way, you will want to visit the popular roadside attraction, Cadillac Ranch.

This 1974 art exhibition is comprised of 10 cars (Cadillacs) stuck nose down in the desert landscape.

Other stops to consider along Route 66 include Dot’s Mini-Museum and the Vega motel near the border with New Mexico, Midpoint Café, a 1950s dining establishment.

3. Road Trips in Texas to the Gulf Coast

Cities Include:

Corpus Christi

South padre island.

A Texas road trip along the Gulf of Mexico will have you traveling to some of the best cities on the Texas coast.

It’s hard to believe that Texas has over 3,000 miles of coastline, now that makes for an epic road trip for sure!

The first stop on this road trip is in the fun seaside town of Galveston, Texas.

Galveston has played a big role in Texas history as it was once one of the wealthiest towns in the United States thanks to the bustling port.

Galveston is a great city to enjoy some time on the best beaches in Texas , do some bird watching, or play on the amusement park rides of the Historic Pleasure Pier.

After leaving Galveston, hit the road for the next stop on this Texas road trip, Corpus Christi.

While in Corpus Christi , visit the Texas State Aquarium and take a tour of the USS Lexington.

Our final stop on this Texas road trip is South Padre Island.

South Padre Island is popular for the epic spring break parties that happen here each spring, but there is more to South Padre Island than that.

Along the way, explore the island’s 113 miles of Texas coastline before heading into town to discover what Padre Island has to offer.

You can enjoy Schlitterbahn Water Park or get your adrenaline fix at Gravity Park.

Of course, taking a fishing or sailing charter from Padre is always a good idea also.

Many are offered year-round thanks to the tropical climate found here.

4. West Texas Road Trip

This road trip includes:

The vast land that is found in west Texas will help visitors to understand why we always say ‘everything is bigger in Texas.’

The sprawling landscape of this area is something that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

You definitely don’t want to miss it!

Road trips in Texas that include Big Bend should also include stops in Marfa and Terlingua along the way.

The small town of Marfa will have you trying to decide if the Marfa lights are one of the natural wonders of the area or are from aliens.

It will also have you exploring Texas history museums and eating some really great food.

Terlingua and Big Bend

Terlingua is an eccentric Texas town that is known as a Texas ghost town.

This tiny town is home to some quirky places to stay, some interesting roadside attractions, and a population of 50 people!

This is one of the best Texas road trips for outdoor lovers as it ends up in Big Bend National Park.

Big Bend National Park encompasses over 1,200 acres of land just waiting to be explored.

Take note though, this national park is known for its harsh environment, so be careful out there!

While in the area, don’t forget to visit Big Bend Ranch State Park also.

The largest state park in Texas, Big Bend Ranch has incredible views of the night sky, numerous hiking trails, and some incredible canyon views.

Another great small town in this area is Alpine, Texas .

5. El Paso Loop Road Trip

• Guadalupe Mountains State Park

The El Paso Loop road trip is probably one of those road trips that many people don’t really know about, but I am here to tell you it should be on your Lone Star State road trip list for sure.

This road trip will have you exploring the remote area of far west Texas, taking in some amazing views, and exploring the west Texas landscape.

Start out exploring Franklin Mountain State Park before visiting the attractions in town like the El Paso Museum of Art.

There are some great restaurants and lots of pretty murals around El Paso also.

You can leave the city and visit the Hueco Tanks State Park and see the unusual granite features that draw loads of rock climbers to this area.

Guadalupe Mountain State Park

About 1.5 hours from the Hueco Tanks State Park is the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, home to the world’s largest fossil reef!

The small town of Fort Davis is on this Texas road trip also.

Here you can explore Davis Mountain State Park, the Fort Davis Historic Site, and the historic downtown area.

6. Piney Woods of East Texas Road Trip

Cities include:

A road trip through the Piney Wood of East Texas is one of the best Texas road trips for nature lovers.

Drive a couple of hours east of Dallas -Fort Worth, and you will feel like you are in a totally different area of Texas.

The first stop here is the small town of Canton, Texas.

This little town is known for the world’s largest flea market that takes place here the first Monday weekend every month.

When they say the world’s largest flea market, they mean it.

The population of the town skyrockets during these weekends!

After exploring Canton, head to Tyler, Texas. Tyler has so many great restaurants, great shopping, and a fabulous lake.

They are also famous for their Tyler roses and are home to the largest rose garden in the United States.

Your final stop on the Piney Woods road trip is Longview.

Longview is a great place to visit in the fall as when the fall foliage takes over and covers this area.

Longview is also home to some great museums, restaurants, and cute shops.

This is also one of the best road trips for festival lovers as Longview is known to host several festivals throughout the year.

You can also do the Piney Woods Wine trail while in this area.

This wine trail has you visiting some of the great Texas wineries that call this region of Texas home.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the wineries in East Texas !

7. International Cities of Texas Road Trip

Castroville.

You don’t have to leave Texas to feel like you have traveled internationally thanks to the road trips in Texas that include the cities formed by international immigrants.

These towns are evidence of the diversity and culture of the people of Texas.

About 1.5 hours southwest of Fort Worth , you will find the small central Texas town of Dublin.

Dublin is a small Texas city that is big on personality and fully embraces its Irish culture.

While visiting, you can make your own soda at Dublin Bottling Works before you eat one of their delicious hamburgers at Doc’s Soda Shop which is located on-site.

Be sure to take your picture with the 4 leaf clover sign and the other murals you will find around town. You can also shop for Irish souvenirs at Things Celtic.

This fun store has everything from kilts to keychains.

While in Dublin, you have to visit Veldhuizen Cheese and taste some of the delicious homemade cheeses that are made.

The town of West is a small city about on hour south of Dallas .

West is best known for their amazing kolaches. That is thanks to the Czech heritage that shaped this town.

The best time to experience all things Czech is during their annual Westfest.

Westfest celebrates all things Czech!

Visitors to West during this festival get to enjoy dancing the polka to a live band, shop the many great vendors, and eat their heart’s fill of Czech food!

Immersing yourself in the German heritage of Fredericksburg is easy.

The German influence is everywhere in this city.

Start out by visiting Fredericksburg’s Pioneer Museum to see how the first German settlers lived. Here you can tour homes and see the artifacts from this era.

While here you can also drink some German beer and wine and eat some delicious German food.

A visit to Castroville, Texas will have you thinking you have been transported to a small town in the French countryside.

The half-timbered Steinbach Haus is the perfect place to start your journey.

This house was built in the early 1600s and was imported to Castroville!

This isn’t the only house though, there are examples of Alsatian architecture all over town.

Visit the boutique shops in town to find the perfect ‘French’ souvenir before grabbing a tasty treat from Haby’s Alsatian Bakery.

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About The Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel.  Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Jen | Local Love & Wanderlust

Saturday 8th of July 2023

Good reference, my inlaws moved to Texas - if we ever visit them this will come in handy.

Monday 10th of July 2023

Thanks for checking it out, Jen!

A Capone Connection

I'm going to be in San Antonio in September so this is super helpful. Thanks so much! I love road trips.

I'm so glad to hear this! I hope you have fun!

Saturday 17th of June 2023

These are so great! I went to Austin for a wedding a few years ago and had an awsome time checking out the music scene. I would love to spend more time there and do some Texas road tripping!

Sunday 18th of June 2023

Yes, Austin has an awesome music scent. Texas is a great place to road trip option. The sheer size means there are so many fun itineraries you can create!

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Wednesday 20th of July 2022

[…] Depending on the region, Texas is a vast state with diverse landscapes and climates. This means you can have a different experience in our state by driving just a few hours in any direction. That means Texas is great for road trips. […]

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Monday 10th of January 2022

[…] then Big Bend National Park should definitely be on your list. Big Bend is one of the perfect Texas road trips that allow you to escape and become one with […]

12 Terrific Texas Scenic Drives For A Family Road Trip

Thanks to its humongous size, it only makes sense that Texas is one of the best destinations to hit the road in, especially for those who like to keep things varied when it comes to scenery, activities, and sights.

The Lone Star State boasts a wide variety of landscapes, ranging from expansive deserts, lush forests, golden countrysides, and even a few towering mountains scattered throughout!

If you’re wondering where to start exploring, there’s probably no better way to get close and personal with Texas than by driving a few of its roads. We’ve put together for you here our top 12 most scenic drives in the Lone Star State, all of which guarantee an experience like no other paired with glorious views.

The Most Scenic Drives in Texas

1. willow city loop.

• Distance: 13 miles

Starting in the quaint Texas town of Fredericksburg, the Willow City Loop will have you winding your way through the best the Texas Hill Country has to offer. Although not a long drive, it’s certainly amongst the prettiest scenic drives in Texas; expect golden rolling hills, vineyards, and wine-tasting experiences galore, charming country views, frames of native trees, and marvelous geological formations.

Even though the Willow City Loop is absolutely stunning no matter the time of the year, it becomes an absolute must-do on any Texas itinerary if you happen to visit during the springtime, when Bluebonnets (the official state flower) and various other wildflowers carpet the entire landscape!

2. Bandera Pass

• Distance: miles

The Bandera Pass has served as a natural gap between the mountains for centuries already, which pretty much means it’s been used by people to get from point A to B throughout history.

Evidence left behind has shown that Native Americans, Spaniards, the Army, and even Texas Rangers have traveled this road, making it a must for those who would love to go on a trip back in time right in the middle of the Hill Country.

Make sure to stop in at the town of Bandera the “Cowboy Capital of the World”. You’ll want to check out the Frontier Times Museum and Old Spanish Trail Restaurant – think huge comfort meals!

3. Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive

• Distance: 30 miles

If you’re visiting Big Bend National Park as part of your Texas itinerary, make sure you throw the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive into your schedule before going in.

Even though the drive itself is only 30 miles long, it will give you the unique opportunity to experience the best this desertic area of Texas has to offer, including its wildlife, a myriad of historical remains and tons of geological wonders.

The drive will reward you with some of the best views of the Chisos Mountains and the Santa Elena Canyon (which you can hike to if you don’t mind stopping to stretch your legs out!)

• Catch our full scenic driving itinerary from Houston to Big Bend National Park , capturing several big cities and scenic state parks along the way

4. Lonesome Highway

• Distance: 59 miles

Ever wondered what a post-apocalyptic world would feel and look like? Driving the Lonesome Highway is as close as you can get to that!

No matter what section of this road you find yourself in, you’ll get to feel as though you’re the only human in the entire world as there’s virtually no civilization anywhere around. Yep, its name is a pretty literal one!

As you drive along the Lonesome Highway, splendid views of the Guadalupe Mountains will be the only thing keeping you company until you reach Signal Peak, the highest natural point in the state!

5. Bluewater Highway

• Distance: 40 miles

If coastal drives are your jam, look no further than the Bluewater Highway. As you make your way from Galveston Island to Surfside Beach, you’ll be pretty much driving parallel to the ocean, with some sections getting so close to it that they actually run right next to the sand!

Aside from the glorious ocean views of the Gulf of Mexico, particularly as you cross the 1.3-mile San Luis Pass Bridge, what makes this route such a treat is the fact that you can just park your car at just about any point and head out to enjoy the sand and sea. Make sure you bring your swimsuit and sunblock along!

6. Texas Swiss Alps

• Distance: 85 – 125 miles

Okay, it doesn’t quite look exactly like the Swiss Alps, but one can dream!

Even though you’ll feel nowhere as though you’re driving through the mountains of Switzerland, what makes the Texas Swiss Alps drive so special are the lush landscapes scattered all around, even in the peak of summer! With elevations ranging between 1,400 to 2,400 feet above sea level, and deep canyons formed by the Frio and Nueces Rivers.

Moreover, there are several spots worth making along the way, including the Medina and Sabinal rivers, an authentic dude ranch, and several hiking trails among hills and canyons. There are several routes you can take on this scenic drive which will vary the overall length of your journey.

Texas Hill Country is a must-stop on any Texas road trip itinerary!

7. Devil’s Backbone

• Distance: 51 miles

The name of this road may sound a bit grim, but don’t let it scare you away!

Devil’s Backbone is actually a pretty chilled-out loop amid limestone cliffs that will give you the chance to experience some of the best the Texas Hill Country has to offer, including a few natural gems as well as cultural attractions.

This route is also known for its wineries, breweries, and distilleries – a good day to choose to be a passenger!

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For nature lovers, a few must-do stops include Blanco State Park for all things hiking and great views as well as Jacob’s Well, a submerged cave you can swim in to relax your muscles!

If you’re into culture, make sure you stop at Blanco and Wimberley, two quaint towns that provide that quintessential Hill Country allure. Moreover, make sure you don’t miss out on making a quick stop at the Devil’s Backbone Overlook, where you’ll get to enjoy striking panoramic views of the area!

8. Canyon Sweep

• Distance: 119 miles

Starting near Caprock Canyons State Park and ending at Palo Duro Canyon State Park , this incredibly beautiful drive is all about sweeping canyon vistas, geological wonders all over, playa lakes, and glorious vistas of the Texas Panhandle.

A stop worth making along the way is Caprock Canyons State Park, where you’ll get to see red rock cliffs rising from the ground, one of the longest rivers in America snaking through a canyon, and even an abandoned railway.

After Caprock Canyons, you’ll stumble across some of the most awe-inspiring views in the area, including the colorful Tule Canyon, which you’ll actually get to cross.

Not too long after, you’ll start entering Palo Duro Canyon State Park, which is home to the second-largest canyon in the USA after the Grand Canyon! You’ll get the chance to stop at several lookout points throughout the drive before descending right to the canyon’s floor.

From here, you can loop your way back or make an adventure out of it and enjoy the canyon’s many activities, which include hiking, camping, and even an outdoor amphitheater where musical performances are held during the evenings!

• This is a great scenic detour you could add onto a Houston to Grand Canyon road trip via the I-40, stopping overnight at Amarillo

9. Davis Mountains Scenic Loop

• Distance: 75 miles

If a bit of a hidden gem is what you’re after, the Davis Mountains Scenic loop in southwest Texas is sure to please, especially if you’re into mountain views and lush landscapes.

Starting in Fort Davis, this incredibly scenic road will take you on an adventure through the mountains of southwest Texas, all of which appear to be floating right above the Chihuahuan Desert and create a scenery you aren’t bound to find anywhere else in the state!

Along the 75 miles that make up the road, you’ll get to pass Limpia Canyon, explore Davis Mountains State Park, marvel at the verdant views of Dead Man’s Canyon, and gaze at the alluring Madera Canyon, all with glorious mountain vistas and what feels like absolute solitude keeping you company every single mile of the way!

Another super interesting stop to make is the McDonald Observatory , which is one of the world’s leading astronomical research centers. Here, you can stop at the visitor center and take a guided tour to the top of Mount Locke, where you can look at the stars and galaxies through high-powered telescopes!

10. El Camino del Rio

• Distance: 49 miles

Extending from Lajitas to Presidio, El Camino del Rio (or “the River’s Path”) is an incredibly scenic drive that twists its way along the Rio Grande River, which is the river that divides Mexico from the United States.

This drive will not just give you the chance to drive along with the beauty of this incredibly mighty river, but along the way, you’ll also get to explore some of the best of Big Bend National Park, stroll historic towns, traverse the Chihuahuan Desert, pass several dramatic canyons, and enjoy fantastic vistas of the mountains and hardened lava flows that reveal the area’s volcanic past.

You’ll also get to detour towards Fresno Creek, where you’ll find multicolored layered buffs that look straight out of this world!

As a tip, you can combine this drive with Big Bend’s official scenic drive (Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive) in order to get to know the park a little better and create a road trip out of it. Make sure you spend some time outside the car at the park so you can explore its unique geology by hiking, horseback riding, biking, and boating!

11. Twisted Sisters

• Distance: 105 miles

It sounds like some kind of morbid fairytale, but in fact, the Twisted Sisters is the nickname given to the route Medina to Barksdale via Ranch Roads 337, 336, and 335 . Over 200 incredible curves to navigate over mountains switchbacks!

Motion sickness sufferers need not apply though this amazing Texas scenic drive might be better suited to those on 2 wheels than 4! You’ll pass diverse scenery, from lush greenery to steep ravines. Make time for a stop-in at the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum.

For its riding wow factor, we simply couldn’t leave it off a list of the best scenic drives in Texas!

12. Route 66 – Texas Panhandle

• Distance: 179 miles

Nothing screams iconic US Road Trip more than taking in the sights and scenes of Route 66. The Texas portion of the famous historic interstate road covers 179 miles along the Texas Panhandle from Glenrio to Texola.

You’ll find multiple unique photo stops along the way including several ghost towns, McLean, Shamrock, and Vega – see if you can spot some of the inspiration behind “Cars”! Cadillac Ranch is sure to be a show stopper and you must stop in at Amarillo. Midpoint Café is where you’ll want to stop for a classic 50s diner experience!

We hope this list of the most scenic drives in Texas inspired you to grab your car keys and hit the open road. Thanks to the fact that the state is so vast, each and every single drive listed here is completely different from the next, which makes picking one a pretty hard task, but rest assured, they all guarantee an adventure like no other!

Further Tips & Inspiration for Road Tripping In Texas

• Remember, Texas is the second-largest state in the USA – distances can be LONG! We’ve set out here drives that are all manageable within half a day and accessible from major cities, but if you’ll be adding longer point-to-point trips in Texas, watch your fuel levels.
• Stay up to date with traffic information before you set out on a scenic drive with drivetexas.org .
• Watch for tolls near big cities – if you are renting a car in Texas, consider pre-paying for peace of mind.
• Children 1 to 7 must be secured in a child passenger safety seat.
• Never forget an important family road trip item again! Download our family road trip essentials checklist r eady for your next family road trip.

© Family Road Trip

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5 Awesome Road Trips in Texas To Take Now

If you know anything about Texas, you probably know that Texas is a huge state.  I mean, we are the largest state in the lower 48 United States, so it is no surprise when I tell you that  road trips in Texas  are popular.

It does not matter if you are looking for  small Texas towns , or lively big cities,  Texas road trips  will have you covered!  Besides, Texas consistently makes the list of  affordable family vacations , so why not plan a road trip here?

We have lived in Texas our entire lives and have seen so many of the great towns in Texas, so you are in the right place to start planning your road trip.  It really does not matter which direction you head in Texas, you are bound to find something of interest.

While I love the big Texas cities of San Antonio, Austin , and Dallas, there truly is so much more of Texas to explore.  We have small-town gems just waiting for you!

So, grab all of your  road trip essentials  and hit the road to see what really makes up the great state of Texas .

If you’re new to Texas, be sure and read these facts about Texas to learn more about the Lone Star State before your visit!

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

Road Trips in Texas

Texas hill country road trip-austin, wimberley, fredericksburg, san antonio.

The Texas Hill Country is one of the best road trips in our opinion.  The hill country is one of our favorites areas in the Lone Star State. There is just something about the rolling hills and wide-open spaces in the hill country that make it so beautiful, and thus making it one of our favorite road trips in Texas also!

Here you will find charming towns surrounded by rolling Texas hills amidst some of the most laid-back big cities in Texas.  Of course, we are just going to hit the highlights so feel free to adventure out and make this Texas road trip your own.

Start your road trip adventure by spending a couple of days in the Texas state capitol, Austin .  Now, do not be overwhelmed by the big city.  After figuring out  the best place to stay in Austin , go check out some of the local hangouts.  Austin is full of them!

Some examples of things to do in Austin include heading to South Congress for some funky, vintage shopping, or exploring the Texas State Capital before heading out for some awesome food and great nightlife that includes Austin’s ever-popular music scene .

There are so many  free things to do in Austin  that you could stay busy and barely spend a dime!

After leaving Austin, plan to spend a night in one of the  romantic getaways in Texas , Wimberley .  We love the artistic vibe of this small Texas Hill Country community.

Head out to Wimberley Valley Winer y to sip on some Texas-made wine or cool off in the famous spring-fed Jacob’s Well or the famous Blue Hole if you are visiting during the summer months.

Hamilton Pool in the town of Dripping Spring is another cool place to swim that isn’t too far away from Wimberley. Just be sure you make reservations for the Blue Hole, Hamilton Pool, and Jacob’s Well as they all get crowded!

There are so many  things to do in Wimberley , making it the perfect place to spend a night out of the big city.

Fredericksburg

The next stop worth of any list of road trips in Texas is one of our favorite Texas Hill County towns, Fredericksburg. Along the way, you may want to stop off in Johnson City and hike at Pedernales Fallas State Park or visit Lyndon B. Johnson State Park. There are also several wine tasting rooms to try while in Johnson City.

For this Texas road trip, we recommend spending two nights in Fredericksburg .  Take your time to explore all of the  things to do in Fredericksburg .

Outdoor lovers will enjoy hiking at Enchanted Rock State Park and watching the bats emerge at Old Tunnel State Park . (Note that you need reservations at Enchanted Rock State Park).

Wine lovers will definitely want to visit the  Fredericksburg, TX wineries . There are vineyards and tasting rooms all over town. If you are here in the spring, be sure to check out their wine and wildflower wine trail!

History lovers will definitely want to see the Fredericksburg Pioneer Museum and the Pacific War Museum.  Of course, you can always just grab a drink and stroll down Main Street browsing all of the great shops if you choose.

San Antonio

After a couple of days in Fredericksburg, we suggest that you enjoy the beautiful countryside as you head south to San Antonio.

Along the way, stop off in another of the charming Texas Hill Country towns, Boerne. Boerne is home to some great antique shops, charming boutique shops, and some awesome restaurants.

If you liked the small-town charm of Wimberley and Fredericksburg, then you might want to consider spending a night or two in Boerne also.  If not, just stop in for a day before going on to San Antonio.

The final stop of this Texas road trip is San Antonio.

We recommend spending about three nights in San Antonio .  This will allow you to get a good feel for the city without rushing.

Of course, your Texas road trip must include some good Mexican food , and our favorite in San Antonio is Nicha’s.  You can hit it up while exploring the San Antonio Mission Trail as it is right across from Mission San Jose.

While in San Antonio, be sure to spend some time on the world-famous San Antonio River Walk and go to the El Mercardo. The San Antonio River Walk is lined with restaurants and shops, making it a great place to spend the evening. You can also take a cruise on the San Antonio River to learn more about the history and culture of the area.

Another great area is San Antonio’s Pearl District. Here you will find great boutique shops, historic buildings, and one-of-a-kind restaurants that often offer live music.

Theme park enthusiasts will also want to visit San Antonio Fiesta Texas and Sea World San Antonio.

While you are in this area, consider checking out the tiny town of Gruene also. This fun town located just north of San Antonio has an awesome historic district, including a historic dance hall, wineries, cute shops, and several companies offering the opportunity to float the river to cool off from the hot Texas sun!

This area is also great in the spring to see all of the  bluebonnets in Texas !

North Central Texas Road Trip-Weatherford, Fort Worth, Dallas, Canton

This itinerary is one of the best road trips if you love a good mix of big cities and small towns. North Central Texas is packed with awesome big cities surrounded by fun small towns that will exhilarate you while allowing you to experience some true southern hospitality. This region of Texas is big on charm and huge on culinary delights, making it one of the top road trips.

Weatherford

Let’s begin our North Texas road trip in one of the towns surrounding the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Weatherford .  We recommend spending 1-2 nights in Weatherford.

Weatherford is a great Texas town boasting a pioneer spirit and many great small-town attractions.

Make sure to head out to Chandor Gardens to enjoy the 3.5-acre estate that is filled with beautiful gardens and ornate Chinese architecture.  Another great garden area to enjoy is Clark Gardens where you can explore the 143-acres of nature waiting for you here. You can also explore Lake Mineral Wells State Park which isn’t too far away if you’re a state park lover.

Roam the historic downtown area and shop and the cute and quirky vintage shops that line the streets here before heading to the perfect bed and breakfast.  (I personally love the peach wine that I find in Weatherford.)

Speaking of peaches, if you visit in July, you can enjoy the Parker County Peach Festival where you can taste all things peach!!  It is one of my favorite times of the year in Weatherford.

After exploring Weatherford for a couple of days, we are heading to Fort Worth on our road trip adventure.

Tourists flock to Fort Worth to enjoy the cowboy way of life.  While this is an awesome draw, there is so much more to this city than just the cowboy culture .

I would recommend spending 2-3 nights in Fort Worth so that you can enjoy all that it has to offer.

While here, definitely stay in the Sundance Square area of Fort Worth as you could easily see most of the attractions that we are going to talk about from this area. I

f you really want to explore the cowboy culture, then your first stop should be The Fort Worth Stockyards .  Here you can watch the daily cattle drive down Exchange Street before exploring Stockyard Station and all that it has to offer.

While in this area, you have to pull up your boots and do some Texas 2 stepping while listening to country music.  One of the most iconic places to do this is Billy Bob’s Texas , the World’s Biggest Honky Tonk.

While in Fort Worth, you will also want to check out the trendy West Seventh area of the city.  This area is full of great bars, restaurants, and shops for you to enjoy.

Of course, Fort Worth has a fabulous zoo, botanical garden, and a beautiful water gardens area in Downtown.

By the way, the Fort Worth Water Gardens is one of the many  free things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth .

Explore Fort Worth’s Sundance Square area as well.  Here you will find many great ideas for  date night in Fort Worth .

Enjoy a great dinner before catching a live theatre or comedy performance in this fun area of the city.

If you are a sports lover then you will want to head to the suburb of Arlington to enjoy some Texas football by seeing the world-famous Dallas Cowboys.   Baseball lovers will enjoy visiting the ballpark in this area as well to catch a game with The Texas Rangers .

While in Arlington, adrenaline junkies will love a visit to Six Flags Over Texas theme park .  Be sure and ride my two favorite rides, The Texas Giant and The Titan!

After leaving Fort Worth, our Texas road trip takes us to Dallas, Texas .  Now while Dallas and Fort Worth are geographical neighbors, most people from this area would agree that they feel like different worlds.  Dallas boasts excellent museums, great outdoor spaces, and awesome culinary adventures.

There are so many  things to do in Dallas  that you could easily spend a week or more exploring the area.  We recommend staying 2-3 nights for this portion of your Texas road trip.

Start out your time in Dallas by visiting the great Dallas Arts District .  Here you can explore awesome museums, catch some live theatre, and enjoy the great art scene that Dallas has to offer.

History lovers will want to explore the Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza to learn about President John F. Kennedy’s life and unfortunate assassination on this spot in Dallas, Texas.  You can also learn about the history of Dallas at the Old Red Museum before stepping back in time at Dallas Heritage Village.

If you find yourself in Dallas in the fall, then you have to head to Fair Park and enjoy all of the fried culinary delights at The Texas State Fair .  If the fair is not in town, you can still enjoy this area by catching a performance at Music Hall at Fair Park.

Spend some time exploring the Dallas Arboretum or the great views while walking the trails around White Rock Lake. State park lovers can head to Cedar Hill State Park and enjoy the trails just outside of the city.

Foodies will be delighted in Dallas as there is a great food and beverage scene here.  Take a food tour to be acclimated to the local cuisine before venturing out on your own.

After spending a few days exploring Dallas, our road trip takes us to another Texas town, Canton.  Canton is located about an hour east of Dallas and is a great little escape to end this portion of your Texas road trip.

We recommend visiting on the weekend before the first Monday of the month so that you can enjoy the  Canton, TX trade days .

Book one of the  great cabins in Canton, Texas  or these try out covered wagon camping to enjoy a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.  The trade days of Canton draw over 100,000 shoppers to this otherwise small Texas town.

Of course, there are other things to do in Canton as well.  You can shop the cute shops around the square, visit Canton Plaza Museum, play some golf, or check out Splash Kingdom Waterpark.

West Texas Road Trip-Marfa, Big Bend, and Terlingua

West of the cities of Wichita Falls and Abilene, you will find the arid, dry region of Texas loosely called “West Texas”.  This area has a unique geography as West Texas experiences much less rainfall than the rest of the state.

However, don’t let that dry, desert-like terrain keep you from visiting.  For you see, West Texas has a hidden gem that you must visit at some point in your life.

Our West Texas road trip will begin in Marfa, TX.

The small town of Marfa is most popular for the “Marfa Lights” .  People have reported seeing these mysterious light orbs in the desert for years.

According to witnesses, the orbs are about the size of a basketball and vary in color.  Supposedly, they appear, twinkle a little, split into two, and then quickly dart across the Texas sky.

Maybe you will get lucky and find yourself in Marfa during their annual Marfa Lights Festival.  If not, you can try to find the epic Texas Marfa Lights for yourself by heading about 9 miles out of town on Highway U.S. 90 toward Alpine to the Marfa Lights Viewing Area.

We recommend spending one night in Marfa to ensure that you have the opportunity to see all of the things to do in this West Texas town.  Don’t forget to check out the Prada store as well. ?

Big Bend National Park

After leaving Marfa, we are heading to the hidden gem that is Big Bend National Park .  I would recommend spending 3-5 nights in Big Bend National Park, depending on how much you love the outdoors.

You might be curious as to why I said Big Bend National Park was a “hidden gem”.  Well, it turns out that Big Bend is one of the least visited National Parks in the country, seeing only about 300,000 tourists a year.  When you compare that to the over 10 million visitors that the Great Smokey Mountain National Park receives, you can see why Big Bend National Park is a hidden gem.

The fact that Big Bend is so remote means that you need to keep a few things in mind.  There are fewer amenities here than around other National Parks, so come prepared.

Fill up on gas along the way, wear good shoes, and bring plenty of water and food for camping, which is always good advice when visiting the National Parks.

If you are a stargazer like Marty, you definitely want to bring your telescope, as Big Bend is one of 10 places in the world that is an International Dark Sky Park , meaning that you can see over 2,000 stars a night because of the lack of light pollution.

Also, remember, you are in a desert area, so watch out for snakes!

Of course, the best part of being in Big Bend is exploring the park itself.  Hike the Closed Canyon Trailhead for an easy walk down to the Rio Grande River.  Another popular hike is the trail to The Window, where the rocks perfectly frame the Texas desert. There are miles of hiking all around this huge state park, so just pick a trail!

Water lover can get their fix in Big Bend also.  You can hike to Cattail Falls to see a gorgeous waterfall or kayak in Santa Elena Canyon.  Santa Elena Canyon surrounds you with 1,500-foot walls, making this a spectacular activity.

Along the way, don’t forget to visit the Texas ghost town of Terlingua as well.  This former mining community that was centered around Chisos Mining Company is most popular for their yearly chili cook-off, but you can visit anytime.

This quirky town has taken full advantage of its fame by creating fun roadside attractions, including a pirate ship and a sand-locked submarine, just to name a few.

This is also a great place to try out some of the glamping in Texas !

Don’t forget to add the small West Texas town of Alpine to this itinerary also!

Texas Coast Road Trip-Galveston, Part Aransas, and South Padre Island

This is one of the best road trips if you love coastlines! Why? Well, the Lone Star State boasts over 3,000 miles of coastline.  That’s a lot of epic Texas coastline !  While we aren’t going to cover every mile on our coastal tour, we will show you some of the most popular places to visit on the Texas Coast.

The Texas Coastline is teeming with a diverse ecosystem and fun activities that you won’t find anywhere else in The Lone Star State.

We begin our coastline road trip in Galveston , Texas.  We recommend staying 2-3 nights in Galveston.

Galveston is an island city located not far from Houston , Texas.  Known for an epic Mardi Gras celebration, Galveston Island definitely knows how to have fun.  Of course, you can spend time on one of Galveston’s many wide-open beaches to enjoy all that the Gulf of Mexico has to offer.

Once you have your fill of the beach, get out and explore what Galveston has to offer.  Adults and kids will love visiting Moody Gardens .  Boasting indoor rain forests, awesome aquariums, zip lines, and awesome 3D theatre experiences, Moody Gardens can fill a whole day in your itinerary.

Of course, you won’t want to miss Pleasure Pier with its great amusement-style rides and games while near the beach.

Shoppers and history lovers will both like visiting the Strand area of Galveston to do some shopping, see the historic building, and tour the Railroad Museum.  There are also many great restaurants in Galveston.  A great way to discover great places to eat in Galveston is to take a food tour.

Port Aransas

After exploring Galveston, our Texas road trip takes us to the Port Aransas/Mustang Island area.  Port Aransas and Mustang Island make up 18-miles of Lone Star State shoreline.  Boasting year-round outdoor activities like parasailing, fishing, and birding, visitors flock to Port Aransas.  We recommend spending 2-3 nights in Port Aransas.

The art scene in this town is big.  Art lovers can enjoy the Port Aransas Community Theatre, a museum honoring the wild mustangs and anglers of the area.  If you would like to see boats being made, then Port Aransas has you covered there also, just head to Farley Boat Work.

There are numerous outdoor activities in Port Aransas.  Anglers will feel right at home here, as Port Aransas is the “Fishing Capital of Texas.”  You can fish in the local bays, channels, or cast a line right off of one of the docks into the ocean.  There are dolphin cruises and bird-watching expeditions originating in Port Aransas as well.

South Padre Island

Our final stop on our coastal road trip in Texas is South Padre Island .  One of the most popular beach destinations in the state, South Padre Island deserves 2-3 nights of your time as well.

Filled with miles of shopping, beaches, recreational activities, and great restaurants, Padre Island is the perfect escape.  Of course, the most popular activities center on the beach!

One of those activities is for sure surfing as Padre Island is one of the best destinations to learn surfing !

Ride horses along the beach, charter a fishing trip, go parasailing, or just spend the day lounging on the beach enjoying the Texas sunshine!

While here, be sure and check out the South Padre Island Sea Turtle Art Trail.  Local artists have been commissioned to build sea turtle art sculptures throughout the city to celebrate this beautiful aquatic creature and to bring awareness to the Island’s endangered sea turtles.  You can learn more about sea turtles by visiting Sea Turtle Inc. as well.

No matter what you are looking for in a beach town, South Padre Island has you covered.

East Texas Road Trip- Longview, Tyler, and Nacogdoches

The Piney Woods region of East Texas is one of the best road trips for nature lovers. East Texas is a sharp contrast to the desert terrain we introduced you to in West Texas.

East Texas will have you traveling through thousands of acres of green forests dotted with beautiful blue lakes.  It is also in this region that you can discover loads of Texas history.

Our first stop on this Texas road trip is the town of Longview.  One visit here and you will see exactly where its name originated from, the long view that you have across this area of Texas.  Sure, it is loaded with pine trees, but look closely and you will see so much more.

Visit in the fall to discover the gorgeous fall foliage that stretches for as far as the eyes can see (a great place to do some bird watching).  We recommend spending 1-2 nights in Longview.

Visitors here enjoy great golf courses, a historical museum, the Longview Museum of Art, and the great hospitality the town offers.  Longview also hosts multiple festivals throughout the year.  Be sure and check  their calendar of events  to see if there are any the interest you.

While you’re in the area, consider booking an East Texas Wine Tour and visit some of the awesome wineries in the area like Enoch’s Stomp !

Our next road trip stop leads us to Tyler, Texas.  Nicknamed “The Rose Capital of America”, Tyler has a long history of being associated with roses.

It is home to the largest rose garden in the United States that encompasses 14-acres and houses over 38,000 rose bushes!  If you find yourself here in October, you can enjoy the annual Texas Rose Festival as well.

Roses aren’t the only thing to do in Tyler though.  Tyler is also home to a drive-thru wildlife safari park, several wineries and breweries, and live event venues.

Outdoor lovers won’t want to miss the numerous lakes in and around this area to enjoy some outdoor recreation.

Nacogdoches

After spending a couple of days exploring Tyler, we are going to end our East Texas road trip in Nacogdoches.  Nacogdoches is a quintessential East Texas town that has something for everyone.

Nicknamed “The Garden Capital of Texas,” Nacogdoches is home to numerous beautiful gardens that you will find sprinkled throughout their city.

A true Texas delight is their crepe myrtle garden that is located on the Stephen F. Austin campus.  Another notable garden in this area is the Durst-Taylor Historic House and Gardens that surround the historic 1835 home.

Shopping is not in short supply in Nacogdoches either.  You will find numerous antique stores and specialty boutiques in this small Texas town.

Of course, there are also numerous restaurants, wineries, and breweries when you need to take a break from all of that shopping.

Visitors can also enjoy the many arts and entertainment venues that call Nacogdoches home.  I am sure a visit to Nacogdoches will have you returning again and again.

Final Thoughts on Texas Road Trips

Well, there you have it.  Some of our favorite places to hit the road and see in Texas.  Of course, this list is not all-encompassing.

There are so many great Texas trips that we could go on and on forever.  Planning a great Texas road trip is easy since there are so many awesome places to see in Texas along the way.  Pick a geographical region and take off!

Of course, if you are short on time, feel free to adapt these and make them a short weekend getaway!

We would love to hear what Texas towns you love.  Comment below and let us know.  Until then….SAFE TRAVELS, FRIENDS!

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About the Author

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

Tuesday 4th of May 2021

I'm about to pack up my laptop and go work from Texas! There's so much to do!! All of these road trips just seem too fun. Thanks for sharing :)

thattexascouple

Thursday 6th of May 2021

Yes! Mission accomplished. Not only is there a lot to do here, but our economy is great and the people are super friendly! Come on down! :)

Wow! So many awesome options on places to go in Texas! But, I have to say vintage shopping and Weatherford historic downtown and the Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza would be my first stops.

Those are great choices. My family is actually from Weatherford and many still live there. It is an awesome place!

These places look just amazing. To be honest, I always thought that Texas is a mix of prairies and deserts - little did I know. I would love to visit that part of the US, my only disadvantage is that I'm not driving, which makes travelling the US a bit difficult.

Monday 3rd of May 2021

Loved driving in Texas! I lived in Houston a few months while at uni and the driving was so easy! Such straight roads! Such lovely people! The speed limit sucks, though. We drive to San Antonio, Dallas/Ft Worth, Austin easily on weekends, driving is wonderful in Texas. Also crossed the country on a Greyhound Bus, so we got an idea how huge the country is...

That sounds so fun. Yes, there are so many places to visit in Texas, and easily drivable. The state is just so big so don't try to cover it to end too quickly. LOL!

Rudy @ Backpack & Snorkel

Wednesday 30th of September 2020

You write: "If you know anything about Texas, you probably know that Texas is a huge state.". Many years ago I was on a business trip and was supposed to fly into San Antonio from Pennsylvania the day before. My first flight was rerouted due to bad weather and we landed in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina instead of Atlanta. After waiting on the tarmac for over an hour, the airline finally decided to cancel the flight to San Antonio and rebook passengers. Unfortunately, the last flight of the day to San Antonio had left while I was deplaning. Due to the bad weather, the only flight I could get was to Dallas, but this flight was delayed. Long story short, I arrived in Dallas after midnight, got one of the last rental cars and drove to San Antonio where I arrived at 5am and made my customer meeting at 9am after sleeping in the hotel for like 90min. On a map, Dallas and San Antonio look close...in real life, it is a 4-5h drive. So, yes, Texas is biiiiiiiiiiiiig!

Oh no. I hate this for you, but yes, Texas is HUGE!!

18 Fun Road Trips From Houston, Texas (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

If you’re looking for some ideas for some great road trips from Houston, here are our top recommendations!

There is so much to do in Houston, Texas ! From visiting the famous Space Center Houston, to touring the Museum District, to roaming around Buffalo Bayou Park, you can spend days enjoying the city life of Houston.

But if you want to explore more of Texas and the surrounding states, try one of these road trips from Houston! There are so many great places within driving distance from Houston, whether you want to drive for a few hours or for a whole day.

You can head down to the seaside and explore beautiful places like Mustang Island or Galveston Island. Or you can head inland to explore the antique shops of a small town or go wine tasting in Hill Country.

Those who want to venture further can drive to the remote regions of Texas such as Palo Duro Canyon or Big Bend National Park. Check out hiking and biking trails and immerse yourself in the landscapes of the US Southwest.

From nearby locations that are just an hour’s drive away, to ambitious journeys across the state, here are some of the top road trips from Houston!

If you need more destinations, here are some of the top places to visit in Texas .

Table of Contents

San Antonio

Galveston island, sam houston national forest, lake charles, caddo lake state park, corpus christi, texas hill country, south padre island, palo duro canyon, new orleans, big bend national park, hot springs, little rock, arkansas, 18 fun road trips from houston.

Explore the outskirts of Bayou City with any of these amazing road trips. Whether you want hiking routes through the wilderness, lively cities, or coastal getaways, there are so many ways to broaden your horizons and find something new around Houston!

1-Day Road Trips

If you’re looking for destinations that are just a short drive away from Houston, here are some great options. All of these places are under 3 hours away from the city, so you can easily have a short road trip and be back in Houston by the end of the day!

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 197 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 45 minutes

Located in the heart of Texas, San Antonio is a city that seamlessly blends rich cultural heritage with modern charm. Renowned for its iconic symbol, the historic Alamo, the city preserves a pivotal chapter in American history.

Beyond its historic significance, San Antonio thrives as a vibrant metropolis with a diverse culinary scene, lively arts and entertainment, and a dynamic riverfront. The scenic River Walk, lined with shops and restaurants, winds its way through the city. The River Walk is a great place to stroll around or take a river cruise .

The city’s cultural fusion is evident in its festivals, such as Fiesta, where the spirit of the community comes alive in colorful parades and events.

From the historic San Antonio missions to the contemporary energy of its neighborhoods, San Antonio captures the essence of Texas hospitality, making it a compelling destination for both history enthusiasts and those seeking a lively urban experience.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 55 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour

Another fun road trip from Houston is Galveston Island . Depart the city and head for the coast, while enjoying quaint towns, roadside seafood shacks, and occasional glimpses of wildlife along the way.

After traveling about an hour south of the city, you’ll reach Galveston on the Gulf of Mexico, a town that boasts miles of pristine beaches that beckon sun-seekers and water enthusiasts alike.

The island’s historic strand district, with its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, provides a nostalgic glimpse into the past, offering a range of shops, galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the fascinating Moody Gardens, the enchanting Bishop’s Palace , and the iconic Pleasure Pier, a waterfront amusement park.

Read next: The Perfect 3 Days In Houston Itinerary

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

Head to the capital city of Texas on a road trip from Houston! There are so many fun things to do in Austin , a city that embraces its reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World”. The city has an eclectic and energetic music scene that permeates its streets, venues, and festivals.

Austin’s unique character is further reflected in its outdoor lifestyle, with locals and visitors alike enjoying the picturesque Lady Bird Lake, the trails of Zilker Park, and the iconic Congress Avenue Bridge, home to a famous bat colony.

The city’s food scene is diverse and celebrated, ranging from food trucks serving mouthwatering tacos to upscale restaurants offering inventive cuisine. Jump on a secret food tour to taste the best food in the city! From outdoor adventure to live music, Austin makes a great place for a day trip from Houston.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 183 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 50 minutes

Nestled along the banks of the Brazos River in central Texas, Waco is a fun city that is within easy driving distance of Houston.

Waco has garnered national attention in recent years, thanks in part to the magnificently restored Magnolia Market at the Silos, a lifestyle complex created by HGTV’s “Fixer Upper” stars, Chip and Joanna Gaines.

Visitors can explore Waco’s historic district, where century-old buildings house boutique shops and eateries, or take a stroll along the scenic Riverwalk. The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum provides a deep dive into the state’s law enforcement history, while the Cameron Park Zoo offers a family-friendly escape. Spend a few hours enjoying all the excitement of Waco before driving back to Houston!

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 47 miles
• Driving time: 45 minutes

Just under an hour’s drive from Houston is Sam Houston National Forest. Spanning over 163,000 acres in southeastern Texas, here you can venture into the great outdoors via the East Texas piney woods, serene lakes, and winding trails.

Hiking, camping, and birdwatching are popular activities within the forest, where visitors can explore the 128-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail. There are also some great biking trails and opportunities for horseback riding through a diverse array of landscapes.

The forest’s centerpiece, Lake Conroe, provides opportunities for fishing and water recreation. Rich in biodiversity, the Sam Houston National Forest shelters various plant and animal species, making it a prime spot for nature observation and photography.

With its proximity to urban centers and a plethora of outdoor activities, the forest stands as a natural oasis, inviting locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the beauty of Texas wilderness.

Read Next: Check out our post on the best day trips from Houston !

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 144 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 10 minutes

You can actually explore a bit of Louisiana on a day road trip from Houston! Lake Charles , situated in the heart of southwestern Louisiana, is a city enriched with a unique blend of cultural vibrancy and natural beauty.

The city’s namesake, Lake Charles, is a picturesque freshwater lake offering a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and birdwatching.

Nestled within the region’s lush landscapes, Lake Charles embraces its Cajun and Creole heritage, evident in its lively festivals, distinctive cuisine, and vibrant music scene. The city’s downtown area is adorned with historic architecture, eclectic boutiques, and a thriving arts community.

With world-class casino resorts adding a touch of excitement to the local scene, Lake Charles stands as a charming destination where Louisiana’s rich traditions harmonize with contemporary flair.

Find more unique things to do in Lake Charles, Louisiana !

Weekend Road Trips

These road trips from Houston are perfectly suited to a weekend getaway! Most of them are about a 3-4 hour drive from Houston. The distance from Houston is a bit far to reach in one day, but these places are ideal for a long weekend away from the city.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 239 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours and 30 minutes

Dallas is another great weekend trip to make from Houston. Known for its towering skyline, the city embraces a cosmopolitan vibe while retaining its Texan roots.

Dallas is a cultural hub with a thriving arts district, world-class museums like the Dallas Museum of Art , and the iconic Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which chronicles a pivotal moment in American history. Check out Bishop Arts District or feast at the many traditional barbecue joints.

From the vibrant energy of the Deep Ellum entertainment district to the scenic beauty of the Katy Trail, Dallas offers a compelling blend of urban excitement and outdoor leisure. Dallas beckons travelers to explore its diverse offerings in the heart of the Lone Star State.

If you need more ideas in the area, check out these day trips from Dallas !

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 262 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours and 50 minutes

Fort Worth and Dallas are both a similar distance from Houston, so you could easily combine both into the same journey! After exploring Dallas, head over to Fort Worth and explore the town’s rich cowboy heritage.

Fort Worth’s most unique attraction is the historic Stockyards National Historic District, where cattle drives and rodeos pay homage to its cowboy legacy. If you’re spending the night and you don’t have to drive, indulge in a Stockyards pub crawl so you can experience the local saloons.

Or explore the more refined side of the city. The Fort Worth Cultural District is a haven for art enthusiasts, hosting renowned museums like the Kimbell Art Museum and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. Sundance Square, in the heart of downtown, offers a vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment, while the Fort Worth Water Gardens provide a serene oasis in the city center.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 234 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours and 48 minutes

Just a short distance from Houston is one of the state’s most beautiful parks, Caddo Lake State Park . Home to the largest natural lake in Texas, the state park sprawls across cypress swamps, bayous, and Spanish moss-draped bald cypress trees, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

Caddo Lake State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails that wind through the lush forest, providing glimpses of the diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the lake’s intricate waterways by canoe or kayak, immersing themselves in the serene beauty of the cypress-lined channels.

Birdwatchers will find the park to be a haven, as it hosts a plethora of migratory and resident bird species. With its unique ecosystems, scenic waterways, and opportunities for both relaxation and adventure, Caddo Lake State Park is a captivating destination for those seeking a tranquil escape into the heart of nature.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 220 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours and 25 minutes

Lafayette , the heart of Acadiana in Louisiana, radiates a distinctive cultural energy that captivates visitors with its vibrant Cajun and Creole heritage.

The Historic District showcases charming architecture and offers a delightful stroll through boutiques, galleries, and eateries. Lafayette is a culinary haven, where the spicy flavors of gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and boudin reflect the region’s culinary prowess.

The surrounding natural beauty, including nearby Avery Island with its famed Tabasco sauce factory, adds to Lafayette’s allure, making it a destination that seamlessly blends cultural authenticity with a warm Southern welcome. It’s a super cool destination for a weekend trip from Houston!

Check out more things to do in Lafayette if you have time!

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 211 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Corpus Christi is a sun-soaked destination on the Texas Gulf Coast that makes a popular road trip from Houston. Boasting miles of sandy beaches along the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi is a paradise for beach enthusiasts and water lovers.

The city’s iconic bayfront features the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, a floating museum housed in a World War II aircraft carrier, and the Texas State Aquarium, providing a fascinating look into the region’s marine life. You can also immerse yourself in the city’s history with an exciting ghost tour !

Continue your adventure by heading over to Mustang Island, a stunning barrier island right next to Corpus Christi. This is one of the most scenic drives in southern Texas!

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 289 miles
• Driving time: 4 hours and 25 minutes

Embarking on a weekend road trip from Houston to the Texas Hill Country unveils a captivating journey through diverse landscapes and charming small towns. As you leave the city behind, the scenery transforms into rolling hills, vineyards, swimming holes, country roads, and expansive ranches.

In Texas Hill Country, there are so many cool places to explore. Check out Fredericksburg, a small town known for its wineries, boutique shops, historic architecture, and German heritage. The scenic Willow City Loop provides a picturesque drive, especially during the wildflower season.

Stop by the iconic town of Luckenbach, where the laid-back atmosphere and live music encapsulate the Hill Country spirit. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at one of the region’s many wineries, savoring the locally produced products of Texas wine country.

You can also visit the enchanting town of Wimberley, known for its charming square, art galleries, and the refreshing waters of the Blanco River. Or explore Dripping Springs and its iconic Hamilton Pool. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and relaxed vibes, a weekend road trip to the Texas Hill Country offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Houston.

Longer Road Trips

Those looking for longer road trips from Houston can tackle any of these amazing routes. Whether you want to explore the vast landscapes of Texas, or venture into another state such as Louisiana or Arkansas, here are some long road trips that are about 5+ hours away from Houston.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 374 miles
• Driving time: 5 hours and 45 minutes

South Padre Island, nestled at the southern tip of Texas, is a sun-drenched paradise known for its gorgeous beaches and vibrant coastal atmosphere. Stretching along the Gulf of Mexico, the island offers a tropical escape with soft sands, clear waters, and a plethora of outdoor activities.

Popular among beachgoers, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers, South Padre Island provides opportunities for dolphin-watching , kiteboarding, and sea turtle encounters.

The island’s laid-back vibe extends to its lively beachfront scene, featuring beachfront bars, seafood restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. With its warm climate, year-round festivals, and a diverse range of attractions, South Padre Island is one of the top getaways from Houston!

You can also try a 10-Day Texas Road Trip if want to see more of the state.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 613 miles
• Driving time: 9 hours

Though it’s quite a distance from Houston, a road trip up to Palo Duro Canyon is well worth it. Located in the rugged Panhandle region of Texas, Palo Duro Canyon is a breathtaking testament to the state’s diverse and expansive landscapes.

As the second-largest canyon in the United States, Palo Duro boasts vibrant, multicolored rock formations, steep cliffs, and a stunning array of geological features. It’s even called the “Grand Canyon of Texas”.

Visitors can explore the canyon through hiking, mountain biking, or scenic drives, immersing themselves in the rugged beauty and the rich history of the region, including the iconic Lighthouse Rock formation.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers camping opportunities, allowing nature enthusiasts to extend their stay and fully appreciate the tranquility and grandeur of this natural marvel in the heart of the Lone Star State.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 351 miles
• Driving time: 5 hours and 15 minutes

The famous city of New Orleans is just a short distance from Houston at only around 5 hours away! You can easily spend a weekend or longer in this city that is steeped in history, music, and culinary delights.

Located along the banks of the Mississippi River, New Orleans is known for its vibrant energy and unique blend of French, African, and American influences. The French Quarter, with its iconic architecture and lively streets, embodies the spirit of the city. Jazz music fills the air and the aroma of Creole cuisine wafts from renowned restaurants.

From the historic St. Louis Cathedral to the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street, New Orleans invites visitors to explore its enchanting streets, revel in its musical soul, and savor the distinct flavors that make it a one-of-a-kind destination in the American South.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 563 miles
• Driving time: 8 hours and 30 minutes

Take on a mighty Texas road trip by traveling from Houston to Big Bend National Park. Situated in the rugged landscapes of southwest Texas, you’ll get to drive through the diversity of the Chihuahuan Desert ecosystem.

Encompassing the winding Rio Grande, towering canyons, and majestic mountain ranges, the park offers a dramatic panorama of geological wonders. Visitors can explore the Chisos Mountains, home to scenic hiking trails such as the Window View Trail, providing breathtaking vistas of the desert below.

The Rio Grande, which forms the park’s southern boundary, offers opportunities for river trips and glimpses into the interconnectedness of the park’s ecosystems. With its striking desert flora, star-studded night skies, and a sense of solitude amidst the vast expanse, Big Bend National Park beckons adventurers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of this remote and captivating corner of Texas.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 400 miles
• Driving time: 6 hours and 30 minutes

Another unique destination that you can visit near Houston is Hot Springs, Arkansas , a charming city renowned for its thermal waters and rich spa history.

The centerpiece of the city is Hot Springs National Park, where visitors can witness the unique sight of hot water bubbling up from the earth’s interior. Bathhouse Row, a historic district within the park, showcases elegant bathhouses from the early 20th century, reflecting the city’s heyday as a spa destination.

The city seamlessly blends its natural wonders with a vibrant downtown featuring art galleries, boutiques, and a diverse culinary scene. From hiking scenic trails to indulging in the soothing waters of the historic bathhouses, Hot Springs invites visitors to experience a delightful fusion of nature, history, and relaxation in the heart of Arkansas.

• Driving distance from downtown Houston: 434 miles
• Driving time: 6 hours and 50 minutes

Last but not least on our list of epic road trips from Houston is the capital city of Arkansas. Little Rock showcases a blend of antebellum architecture, modern urban amenities, and lush green spaces.

The River Market District serves as a vibrant hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment, while the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum stands as a testament to the city’s political significance. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site commemorates a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement, highlighting the city’s role in shaping the nation’s history.

With its cultural attractions, riverfront beauty, and welcoming community, Little Rock invites visitors to explore its diverse offerings and experience the warm hospitality of the capital city of the Natural State.

Find more fun things to do in Little Rock !

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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Fun Texas Road Trips for Families

From the coast to the big cities to the mountains and beautiful countryside in between, Texas offers amazingly diverse areas to explore. Want to hit the road and have some travel adventures with the kids? Below you’ll find some of our top picks for where to go when you get the chance to buckle up and head out on an old-fashioned family road trip.

Texas Road Trips for Families

Photo from the Texas Parks & Wildlife website

Bandera Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 20 min. Get away from it all and say “howdy” to your inner cowboy in Bandera County. Known as the “Cowboy Capitol of the World”, this is a great destination to put on your boots and cowboy hat, relax on a ranch, ride horses, and boot-scoot around a dusty dance floor. While the tiny little town area is mostly packed with honky tonk bars, antique shops, and Western wear boutiques, the kids can stick to the dude ranches, such as Flying L or Dixie Dude Ranch , where there are plenty of activities to keep the family busy. Enjoy the great outdoors at the Hill Country State Natural Area or along one of the top-rated scenic drives of the Hill Country.

Photo from the Big Bend National Park Facebook page

Big Bend National Park Approximate drive time: 8 hours Head way out west to one of the most awe-inspiring stretches of landscape in the state at Big Bend National Park. Take in the views of giant canyons, sprawling desert flora, cliffs, peaks, and abundant wildlife . The park features  river trips, horseback riding, and air tours . Big Bend is also known as one of the best places in all of North America for star gazing – a fact due to it having the least amount of light pollution of any other National Park in the lower 48 states. Read about our visit to Big Bend with the kids.

Hippo Tank @ Dallas Zoo via Yelp

Dallas Approximate Drive Time: 3 hours Dallas is home to The Cowboys, incredible cuisine, an awesome music scene, and so much fun and entertainment for folks of all ages.  If you’re thinking of heading to Dallas with the family, you could check out The Dallas World Aquarium to adventure in the mysteries of the rain forest, The Dallas Zoo , with more than 2,000 animals, and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science for innovative and highly accessible experiences.  You could also hit up Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark and Resort for some family water fun.  Check out more ideas at Visit Dallas here , and their sample itinerary for families visiting the city here .

Photo from the Texas Parks and Wildlife website

Dinosaur Valley State Park Approximate drive time: 3 hours Take the kids for a walk in real dino tracks! Famous for having some of the best-preserved dinosaur tracks in the world, this park is located in Glen Rose, TX on the Paluxy River where you can see footprints in and around the riverbed. Enjoy plenty of dinosaur-themed things and camp, picnic, hike, mountain bike, swim, fish, go geocaching, and ride horses. Click here for park hours and entrance and camping fees. Take note that dinosaur tracks are in the riverbed and are not always visible due to wet conditions or weather. So you will want to visit the park’s Facebook page  or Twitter feed before arrival for current trail status and dinosaur track visibility. While you’re in the area, you can also check out Dinosaur World ,  Fossil Rim Wildlife Center , and the Glen Rose Historic Courthouse Square.

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History via Yelp

Forth Worth Approximate Drive Time: 2 hours, 50 minutes Forth Worth is known for its world-class museums like the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History , where you can find an awesome, interactive children’s exhibit, a playground, and even dig for dinosaurs in a mock dig site.  You could also check out the Forth Worth Zoo , one of the nation’s best, Six Flags Over Texas (just 15 minutes from downtown Fort Worth), as well as a huge variety of restaurants and cuisines .

Photo from the Galveston Island Tourism Facebook page. Photo by Billy Hill

Galveston Approximate drive time: 4 hours Beyond a basic beach vacation, Galveston is rich with history, making it a fun and educational destination. Once one of the most bustling ports of entry in the entire nation, the island city was nearly decimated by a hurricane in 1900, which remains the deadliest natural disaster in United States history. You can learn about the history of the Port of Galveston at the Texas Seaport Museum & 1877 Tall Ship Elissa . Admire the beautiful centuries-old architecture at The Grand 1894 Opera House  or the opulent  Hotel Galvez . Galveston is also home to the fantastic Moody Gardens , with aquariums, IMAX theaters, art exhibits, and more. Of course, no visit to Galveston is complete without plenty of fun in the sun on the beach as well as rides and carnival games on Pleasure Pier .

Houston Zoo; photo from the Visit Houston Facebook page

Houston Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 45 min. The fourth-largest city in the US also has one of the tallest skylines in the country. Houston is packed with amazing cuisine, museums, and art galleries. Take the kids to NASA’s Johnson Space Center , the Houston Zoo , or the Children’s Museum of Houston .

Giant sand sculptures at Texas Sand Fest; Photo by Heidi Okla

Port Aransas Approximate drive time: 4 hours Slow down and chill will the fam at “Port A”, where beach life is all about relaxation. Get around on golf carts, hang out on miles of open beach, and enjoy fresh seafood. Spend a few hours at  Port Aransas  Nature Preserve or do some fishing on the pier .

San Antonio River Walk at night; photo by Heidi Okla

San Antonio Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 20 min. When you’re looking for a day trip or an easy getaway, San Antonio is a perfect spot to take the kids for fun adventures. Only about an hour’s drive south of Austin, San Antonio provides SO MANY amazing things for kids to see and do. There’s the beautiful River Walk where you can hop aboard a Go Rio cruise, or tour the historic Alamo , but there are also plenty of engaging museums such as The DoSeum as well as The Witte. Kids will have a blast playing in the Hemisfair Park – Yanaguana Garden or visiting the animals in the San Antonio Zoo .  So take a little trip down and enjoy being a tourist for a day or two. Read more about our last visit to San Antonio .

Magnolia at the Silos; photo by Heidi Okla

Waco Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 45 min. Waco is located just over 100 miles north of Austin, so it’s great for a short trip. It’s a small college town, home to Baylor University. But it’s also home to the awesome Cameron Park Zoo, and super kid-friendly museums at the Mayborne Museum Complex . Did you know that the Waco Mammoth National Monument is home to fully preserved Columbian mammoths? Stop in for a very informative tour (currently with limited capacity). For some fun, pop into the Dr. Pepper Museum , or if you’re a fan of HGTV, you can’t miss a stop at Chip and Joanna Gaines’s Magnolia Market at the Silos.

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

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

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

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

How We Structured Austin Weekend Getaways Guide

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

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

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Austin

Garner state park.

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

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

Driving Distance From Austin

Big Bend National Park (+ Beyond)

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

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

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

7 hours, 30 minutes.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

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

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

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

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

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

Caverns of Sonora

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

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

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

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Caddo Lake State Park

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

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

5 hours, 15 minutes.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

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

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

2 hours, 45 minutes.

Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Austin

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

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

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

New Orleans

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Beach Road Trips from Austin

South padre island.

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

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

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

5 hours, 30 minutes.

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

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

Corpus Christi

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

Mustang Island

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

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

Best Small Town Weekend Trips from Austin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of the Best Weekend Getaways from Austin

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5 of our favorite Family Road Trips from North Texas

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Categories Travel

There’s nothing quite like packing up the family and hitting the open road for any of these summer family road trips! If you’re looking for some ideas on where to go, when you’ve exhausted your list of getaways in Dallas, we’ve got you covered.

More: Your Ultimate List of Road Trips from Dallas

Here are our favorite family road trips from North Texas. We are lucky to have a ton of ideas for travel in Texas.

If you want to rent a car , instead of running up mileage on your own, there are some great options out there.

More: 10 Day Trips within a 2 hour Drive from Dallas

Dallas > Big Bend National Park

The first stop on our list is the beautiful Big Bend National Park . This park is full of incredible hiking trails, breathtaking views, and plenty of opportunities to spot some wildlife.

If you’re looking for a little bit of everything, Big Bend is the perfect place for your family road trip.

Timing is important: the best time of the year for this road trip is the cooler months. When Plano Mom, Mel, visited it was Thanksgiving break.

With this family road trip, wherever you are close to Plano, Frisco area, you’ll be driving from the Dallas area, and likely around the North side of Fort Worth , in Tarrant County, around 180 miles to your first stop at Abilene.

Abilene has a cute Storybook Garden and you can visit the Abilene Christian University, Abilene is a cute small historic town.

This part of Texas has lots of cotton fields and wind turbines to see while you are on a road trip toward Big Bend National Park.

On this family road trip, your next stop will be Midland, TX where you can stop and visit the butterfly garden in the historic downtown and along the I20, the Wildlife Preserve, the Petroleum Museum , as well as the childhood home of George W. Bush.

Once you’ve left Midland and headed towards Odessa, don’t miss the Odessa Meteor Crater and Museum.

Next stop is at the Monahans Sandhills State Park which is so much fun. Be sure to bring your cooler with water!

If you have sleds, bring them, or borrow them so you can ride down some of the dunes. While you’re close to Monahans, TX, you can also visit the Million Barrel Museum.

Head a little further down the I20, and you can visit the Rattlesnake bomber base in Pyote TX.

Another great stop on your way to Big Bend National Park is Balmorhea State park. The park is open year-round and it has a spring-fed swimming pool.

Your next step will be Davis Mountains State Park, if you have time to visit!

Famously, Marfa is one of the few stops remaining, a cute little artsy town. If you can, you must try and see the Marfa lights while you’re there.

Be prepared as you enter the Big Bend National Park and bring in your own food and drink for your visit.

If you stop in Alpine there is a small Target on the side of the road. Be sure to have your lodging booked and planned before you enter the park.

You’re now ready to enter the park and start your adventure!

Next up is another one of Texas’s great family Road Trips and one you might want to plan for 1 week to 2 weeks. A great time to do this is Spring or Summer Break.

Dallas > Colorado Springs

On Day 1, plan to leave the Dallas area and head west to Amarillo (around 6 hours). Mel’s family stayed at Home2Suites Hilton Amarillo East.

From there, it’s an easy walk to the Big Texan steak house (be sure to book a table online as the wait times are huge) or you can do pick up. If you can finish a 72oz steak in an hour, it’s free!

When you leave Amarillo on Day 2, be sure to stop at the art installation, the Cadillac Ranch (take your own spray cans to leave your own stamp on it!).

Continue your day 2 drive from Amarillo to Colorado Springs (less than 6 hours). One possible stop on the way is Capulin Volcano, for you to explore and hike!

When we arrived at Colorado Springs, we stayed at Cheyenne Mountain Resort.

Be sure to visit the Garden of the Gods and explore the visitor center too. There is a short film to watch, lots of info and things to see and a gift shop.

We also suggest a visit to Cheyenne Zoo. Be sure to ride the chairlift and take in the hippo exhibit, which is really good. Also, explore Manitou Springs. You can take a cup and you can try the water from the springs and check out lots of cute shops to explore.

Finally, enjoy a visit to the Broadmoor Hotel and a must-do, the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center.

Dallas > Arkansas Lakes

Next up is another one of Texas’s great family Road Trips and one you might want to plan is a visit North/North East to Arkansas – to Hot Springs and/or Eureka Springs , with some great watering holes, lakes and beautiful scenery. The Dallas to Eureka Springs Road trip gives you plenty of great hills and trees to look at – a refreshing change from the DFW area.

Dallas > Beaches in Alabama and Florida

If you’re looking for a Floridian or Alabama coast beach vacation, you can road trip it to the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach , or a little further to the Destin area and 30a beach towns .

More: Destin Beaches Florida: Places to stay & Things to do we love

Book a Hotel in Destin, Florida

Dallas > new orleans.

If you’re looking for a real Louisiana experience, we also recommend a family road trip with kids to New Orleans. Believe it or not, there are some great ways to enjoy it with kids and of course great bars and eateries for adults too!

Have you ever been on a family road trip? Tell us about it in the comments!

And, if you have any other great suggestions for road trips from North Texas, please share! We’d love to hear from you. Happy travels!

All articles and photos belong to Plano Moms LLC unless otherwise noted. It’s all copyrighted. If you wish to request to use our content  Email Us  first. All rights reserved. This site uses cookies to enhance your experience. We make no guarantees of any prices or venue-specific information listed on our site. We are not responsible for content on external websites linked to, including linked resources, an external blog post, any partner site, hotel property sites, or affiliate sites. We only write about places we love but we can’t guarantee you will love them, too. Posts may contain affiliate links at no cost to you. Some of our experiences have been hosted but this never impacts how we share the experience with you – opinions are always our own! We do not sell links or accept unsolicited guest posts under any circumstances. United States Copyright, Plano Moms LLC

Hi, I’m Abbie, super mom, and busy-bee who moved to Plano from London, England with my husband and 2 kids, Jesse and Lucy, in the Summer of 2013. Plano Moms was my lifeline when I arrived as I didn’t know anyone or anything about my new city that I now called home. When I’m not being a Plano Mom or being a taxi service to my kids, working out, cooking and reading (when I find the time!)

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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.

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Budget And Invest

15 Best Family Cars for Road Trips on a Budget

Posted: January 1, 2024 | Last updated: January 1, 2024

There is nothing like hitting the road; the only destination is adventure and fun. Road trips used to be boring, but with all the fun features cars offer, traveling could be the most fun part of the trip. Where are we going, everyone? Well, with these vehicle options, the possibilities are endless.

1. Toyota Sienna

Toyota may have created the ultimate family road trip vehicle when it launched the new Sienna. It has the looks of a sports utility vehicle so that the dads can feel a little more at ease behind the wheel. With features like kick-to-open and close sliding doors and hatches, you can be hands-free when stocking up for the road. Your family will love the multiple climate control cabins and the numerous USB ports for charging your tablets. This vehicle does it all and can add bike and cargo racks for extra storage.

2. Toyota Highlander

Toyota might make a couple of appearances on the list as it is known for getting people out on the road, ready to explore the great big world. Families will enjoy the third-row seating that can be removed for extra storage space if needed. The truck has all the entertainment and navigation options to keep you on track and free from boredom on the road. Safety features like lane departure and blind spot monitoring will give you peace of mind and comfort on your long journey.

3. Kia Telluride

Kia has always been known for their reliable and safe compact cars. Seeing them come out with a full-size family sports utility vehicle was a surprise. This rig is awesome. Not only do you get the standard safety features that you have come to love from Kia, like forward collision avoidance and blind spot monitoring. But you will also get 6 USB ports for the three-row seating. A rear entertainment system with separate remotes and a navigation system to keep you from getting lost. Talk about one sweet ride.

4. Hyundai Palisade

The sister of the Kia Telluride from Hyundai’s parent company is also a road tripper’s dream ride. The sport utility vehicle can comfortably seat up to eight people and is fully equipped with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Plus, it comes with the standard 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty that Hyundai is known for. Sounds like they have everything covered next time you need to hit that open road.

5. Nissan Pathfinder

Nissan has made one of the smoothest rides in the large sports utility vehicle category. One look at this rugged truck, and you might fall in love. The thing can fit 8 people, tow up to 6,000 pounds, all while enjoying Wi-Fi and watching your favorite movies on the DVD player (yes, some people still own DVDs). Nothing will get in the way of you and your adventure in the new Nissan Pathfinder.

6. Kia Carnival

The Carnival was once the Kia Sedona, the brand’s minivan. The only thing that has really changed is the name. The minivan is spacious, even with the third-row seating. Drivers can feel safe knowing their van is set up with lane trace assist and automatic emergency braking. Passengers can relax in the climate-controlled cabin with numerous USB ports for their devices.

7. Chrysler Pacifica

Chrysler has brought the idea of the road trip to another level. The new model has Amazon Fire TV as part of its cabin’s entertainment package. You heard that right: sit back and stream your favorite TV shows and movies without carrying your devices with you. There is also a hybrid model for those looking to save some gas. Are we in the future? It feels like this is the future.

8. Honda Odyssey

Honda has been making their reliable minivan for many decades, and this year’s model is no different. Honda will continue to get kids to and from soccer practice in style with the new Odyssey. Safe, spacious, and full of all the tech gadgets a family needs, this minivan is a solid choice for families. Whatever you need in a minivan, this model has got. Get on down to your Honda dealership now.

9. Buick Enclave

Buick has made some serious strides in manufacturing family vehicles. I always thought they were rich CEO cars you would only find at the fancy country clubs. All the safety features, like automatic braking and lane departure, come standard. The coolest feature might be the front seats that have a massage feature. How cool is that? After all, Mom and Dad need a nice massage on the way home from hauling the kids around.

10. Chevrolet Traverse

The Chevy Traverse is the brand’s newest third-row seating sports utility vehicle. Some cooler specifications of the Traverse are the numerous USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a rear entertainment system. WI-Fi hot spots and a Bose sound system round up everything else there is to like on this road warrior.

11. Ford Explorer

Ever since 2021, the Ford Explorer has been available in a hybrid model. This is a terrific feature for one of the larger sports utility vehicles on the market. No safety features were sparred on the new Explorer. You want it, it has it. Lane departure warning, automatic braking, forward collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alert make this truck as safe as can be. Don’t worry; it’s also fun to drive with every entertainment option offered as well.

12. Subaru Outback

Much smaller than all of the other vehicles mentioned, the Outback may only seat five passengers, but it is ready for anything the road throws at it. It’s like an homage to the station wagons of the 70s and 80s, and I’m sure your parents will remember those days. Load up the roof rack with all your camping needs because this all-wheel drive vehicle will get you off the grid in no time.

13. Ford F-150

If you and your family are serious adventures, you might need a truck capable of hauling all your toys. The F-150 can do just that and more. Load up your toy hauler, camper, boat, or whatever else you need for a weekend of fun. This truck will pull it anywhere. This is also not your grandpa’s truck anymore. Enjoy the spacious, climate-controlled cabin with WI-FI hot spots and all the entertainment you need until you arrive at your destination.

14. Toyota Prius

Who said a road trip vehicle had to be huge and roomy? What if you are a family of three or a family of two with a dog? If that is the case, then a Prius might be your best option. We all know about the fuel economy, but we might not realize how much room the newer models have. Fold down the back seat for extra cargo space or to let your dog stretch out and nap on the long roads. The cars have navigation and Bluetooth to keep you entertained while traveling.

15. Cadillac Escalade

The epitome of class, Cadillac will have you navigating the open road in style. Do you like heated and cooling seats? The Escalade has them. Do you like sleek displays and advanced safety features? Yeah, The Escalade has them. All the bells and whistles are in this bad boy. While not exactly a budget car, it certainly gives plenty of bang for your buck.

Source: NewsWeek. Source: ReadersDigest.

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Take a break from your road trip at these 6 weird, quirky Michigan roadside attractions

From private gnome villages built in front yards to giant tires along the highway, Michigan has a host of fun roadside attractions.

Here are just a few to check out. Do you have other attractions we should include? Reach out to us .

Gnome Village

• Location: Wolverine — off of Old Sturgeon Road

In an April social media video, TikTok user MckormickRadio randomly stumbled across a gnome village off Old Sturgeon Road in Wolverine, and couldn't believe the find.

The collection of tiny houses is unique and whimsical and features a small church and other community buildings.

Eiffel Tower

• Location: Paris Park, about 5 miles north of Big Rapids
• Cost: $6 park entry

Visit the Eiffel Tower without ever leaving the state with a visit to Paris Park in northern Michigan. The 20-foot-tall tower is constructed of steel, built in 1980 by welding students from the Mecosta-Osceola Career Center in Big Rapids.

The park is also home to the state's first fish hatchery dating back to 1881 and operated until converted into a park in 1964. Behind the hatchery is a drawing of a Chippewa Chief carved in 1937.

Cross in the Woods and Nun Doll Museum

• Location: 7078 M-68, Indian River

Along I-75 in northern Michigan is a spiritual site with the world's largest crucifixion of Jesus Christ, sculpted by Michigan's own Marshall Fredericks, responsible for the Spirit of Detroit among other monuments. The bronze 28-foot statue is just one spiritual stop of the park's seven holy shrines .

In addition to the holy sculptures, the Cross In the Woods Catholic Shrine at Indian River is home to the largest number of dolls dressed in traditional habits of men and women in religious communities in the country. On display in the doll museum is 525 dolls and 20 mannequins from around the world.

More: 8 unusual Michigan museums to visit this summer

Dinosaur Gardens

• Location: Ossineke
• Cost: $10 and up

Take a walk on the wild side with a trip to Ossineke Michigan's Dinosaur Garden , first opened in 1923, which more than 20 dinosaur sculptures call home.

The park is a half-mile walk and self-guided tours start at $10 with children under 2 years old free. For an added $3 per child, kids can dig for their fossils and take home their favorite three. The park also has an 18-hole putt-putt golf course overlooking the nearby Devil's River.

The Miner's Sluice packages range from $10.95 to $21.95 and give families the experience of picking a bag of mining mix and washing the contents in a live, water-operated miner's sluice.

Nearly 200 miles south of Dinosaur Gardens in Irish Hills is the site of the long-abandoned Prehistoric Forest , a similar dinosaur park that thrived in the early 1980s.

Uniroyal Tire

• Location: Dearborn, westbound I-94

An 80-foot-tall Uniroyal tire , originally built as a Ferris wheel for the 1964 New York World's Fair , has welcomed incoming metro Detroiters off of I-94 for decades.

See inside: I-94's giant Uniroyal tire

Allen Park was awarded the giant tire, worth $750,000, made of polyester resin and fiberglass in 1965 as long as they converted the moving and set up costs — which estimated to be about $300,000.

Detroit's Hollywood-style Sign

• Location: Detroit, eastbound I-94

Detroit's newest roadside attraction, a Hollywood-esque light-up sign, was built in early April to welcome visitors for the 2024 NFL draft .

Opinion: Detroit sign on I-94 should have included more residents, input from artists | Letters

The 10-foot-tall letters received mixed reviews from community members after its installation. Mayor Mike Duggan blamed the negative response on a misleading rendering that went viral on social media after the Free Press' original reporting .