3 day weekend trips from dallas

19 Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas (Fun Road Trip Ideas!)

Planning a quick escape from the city and looking for the best weekend getaways from Dallas?

From small towns to state parks to funky cities, we’ve rounded up the best road trips from Dallas (or Fort Worth) here!

With one exception, each of these Dallas weekend getaway ideas is located between 3 and 8 hours from Dallas, making these destinations ideal for trips that last 1-3 nights away (if you’re looking for destinations a bit closer to Dallas, check out our guide to the best day trips from Dallas here ).

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a weekend full of family memories, an adventure with friends, or even a solo escape, one of these weekend getaways from Dallas 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.

Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Dallas

The capital of Texas and self-proclaimed Live Music Capital of the World is the perfect weekend trip from Dallas for those looking to keep things just a little weird.

Take a dip in one of Austin’s many nearby natural swimming holes , go hunting for street art on South Congress, tour the Texas State Capitol Building, watch the sunset at Mount Bonnell, escape to the Texas Hill Country for the day, and of course enjoy plenty of nightlife!

With a huge variety of fun things to do, Austin is perfect for travelers looking for a great mix of city fun and outdoor adventure.

Driving Distance from Dallas

New Orleans, LA

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

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

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 in New Orleans .

7 hours, 45 minutes.

San Antonio, TX

As the most-visited city in all of Texas, San Antonio knows how to show visitors a good time, and it is absolutely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Be sure to visit the famous Alamo, as well as the rest of the San Antonio Missions.

All five missions, including the Alamo, are recognized together as a UNESCO World Heritage Site–the only UNESCO site that exists in Texas!

You’ll also want to sample the Riverwalk, of course, as well as visit the San Fernando Cathedral, go shopping at the Historic Market Square and in La Villita, and visit one of San Antonio’s incredible museums.

When driving from Dallas to San Antonio , you’ll also find plenty to do along the way–if you have time, consider adding a pitstop in Waco or Austin to your trip!

Oklahoma City, OK

Oklahoma City may not be what you immediately think of when considering getting away from Dallas for a weekend, but this smaller city to the north offers a surprising number of things to see and do!

Consider visiting the Bricktown entertainment district, checking out the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, strolling through the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens, and paying your respects at the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Head a bit north of the city, and you’ll quickly find yourself on Route 66, with quirky roadside attractions like the Arcadia Round Barn within easy reach.

3 hours, 15 minutes.

Houston, TX

As the 4th-largest city in the USA, Houston is positively packed with interesting things to do, starting with its most famous attraction of all: the incredible Johnson Space Center!

Once you finish up at the Space Center, though, there’s still plenty to see in Houston, including several parks to visit, an enormous number of museums and art galleries, and plenty of delicious food to eat–Houston is home to one of the best (and most diverse) food scenes in Texas!

Want to squeeze in a quick trip to the beach?

With some careful planning, you can enjoy some time on the sand in Galveston into your weekend in Houston!

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Located on the Arkansas River–and more importantly, along Route 66–Tulsa is an unexpectedly fun place to spend a weekend!

This unexpectedly charming city is complete with Art Deco architecture, plenty of interesting museums (don’t miss the stunningly beautiful Philbrook Museum of Art), and the fun Blue Dome District.

Want to see some classic Route 66 quirkiness while you’re there?

The famous Blue Whale of Catoosa is just outside the city!

4 hours, 30 minutes.

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Dallas

Palo duro canyon state park, tx.

The second-largest canyon in the USA is reachable as a weekend trip from Dallas–and it’s one of the coolest places in all of Texas!

While you’re there, be sure to soak in the excellent views from the top of the canyon, drive the park loop road, and hike a couple of trails. Most importantly, be sure to hike to the Lighthouse formation!

It’s the most famous formation in the park for good reason.

Colorado Bend State Park, TX

Want to feel like you’ve left Texas behind… without actually leaving Texas?

Staring up at 70-foot Gorman Falls can definitely have that effect: this stunning living waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas, and looks more like it belongs in Hawaii than in the Lone Star State!

Come to Colorado Bend State Park for hiking, swimming, and beautiful views in the heart of Texas.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM

Located in southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Cavern is one of the most impressive caves in the USA.

It’s one of the most unique weekend getaways from Dallas!

While you can tour the main cavern, including the aptly-named Big Room, in a single day, with some extra time you can also add some more hiking in the Chihuahuan Desert to your trip… or you can combine your Dallas road trip to New Mexico with our next destination in this guide.

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

Set just south of the New Mexico border in west Texas–only half an hour from Carlsbad Caverns National Park–sits the beautiful Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Here, you can find the four highest peaks in Texas and some excellent hiking , making it another fantastic option for weekend getaways from Dallas.

If you happen to be planning your road trip in the fall, Guadalupe Mountains National Park also happens to be home to some of the prettiest fall foliage in Texas !

Lake Texoma, TX/OK

Located right on the Oklahoma/Texas border, Lake Texoma is a doable day trip from Dallas but definitely deserves to be called out in any guide cataloging road trips from Dallas, as it’s absolutely one of the most popular weekend getaways for locals.

Popular for fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking, Lake Texoma is a fun outdoor getaway for the whole family!

1 hour, 40 minutes.

Hot Springs National Park, AR

Aptly named Hot Springs National Park is the perfect Dallas getaway destination for those looking for a relaxing weekend away, complete with a soak in a thermal spa!

Located in an urban setting surrounded by shops, restaurants, and more, Hot Springs offers a fantastic mix of natural highlights and small-town charm.

Nine historic bathhouses line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, two of which you can still take a soak in today!

Broken Bow, OK

As the gateway to beautiful Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas for those looking for a quiet retreat into nature near a small town.

While in Broken Bow, you can go canoeing on the lake, take a hike, stay in a cozy cabin, and enjoy a relaxing trip that feels worlds away from the city.

Best Small-Town Weekend Trips from Dallas

Fredericksburg, tx.

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is definitely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Featuring plenty of nods to its German heritage, a beautiful downtown packed with shops and restaurants, great antiquing, and–most famously of all– plenty of easily accessible wineries to choose from, Fredericksburg is a fantastic change of pace from Dallas.

The town is also easily accessible to plenty of hiking (including Enchanted Rock ) and other beautiful small Texas towns (like Luckenbach , Johnson City , and Wimberley ).

4 hours, 15 minutes.

Round Top, TX

The tiny town of Round Top, Texas, is best known for its antique shows … but you can shop thousands of antiques, meander through a small town, and enjoy the famous (and delicious) pies at Royers Pie Haven year-round on a Dallas weekend getaway to Round Top!

Don’t miss Henkel Square Market or Rummel Square while you’re there!

And, if you’re into unique roadside stops on your road trips from Dallas, don’t miss the charming nearby St. Martin Catholic Church, which is considered the smallest Catholic church on Earth!

3 hours, 45 minutes.

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

Even beyond the immensely popular Silos, though, Waco has plenty to see!

Consider also stopping by the Dr. Pepper Museum, enjoying Baylor’s beautiful campus, and checking out the Wooly Mammoth National Monument during your visit.

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Jefferson, TX

The small town of Jefferson, Texas, combined with nearby Caddo Lake State Park, makes one of the best and most diverse Dallas getaway ideas (for the lovebirds out there, it’s arguably one of the most romantic getaways from Dallas, too).

The best things to do in Jefferson itself include antiquing in the historic downtown center, shopping at the famous Jefferson General Store, staying in one of  the many bed and breakfasts  that the town is famous for, and learning about Jefferson’s railroad history–touring Jay Gould’s opulent private rail car is a great place to start.

From there, head to Caddo Lake, where 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 Dallas for those looking to leave city vibes behind entirely.

Branson, MO

Tucked into the Ozarks, Branson is a (polarizing) regional favorite, with a distinct flair that draws in visitors from surrounding states–including people looking for fun road trips from Dallas!

Branson is known for its live entertainment and shows (typically with a country music twist), its easy access to Table Rock Lake, and for being the home of Silver Dollar City, an amusement park that’s a favorite of families visiting the area.

New Braunfels, TX

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

Whether your ideal weekend getaway from Dallas includes natural beauty, dancing the night away, or one of the best theme parks in Texas, you’ll find it in New Braunfels!

3 hours, 40 minutes.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

19 Fabulous Weekend Getaways from Dallas

By: Author texasonly

Are you looking for a fun weekend (or long weekend) away from Dallas?

Then look no further, we have you covered with our list of weekend getaways from Dallas .

These weekend getaways from Dallas  are the perfect weekend escapes, as each is  within a 5-hour drive   of Dallas, Texas .

Trust us, we were born and raised in the Dallas- Fort Worth area and still call it home today!

Let’s dive into our list of Dallas getaways (that are in no particular order).

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.

Follow Us on Social Media

Join the texas travel community and get a free texas bucket list checklist, best small-town weekend getaways.

Small towns are some of the best places to visit in Texas . You could spend every weekend just exploring them and have years of getaways!

Here are some of our favorite places to visit!

Glen Rose, Texas

Distance from dallas: 75 miles, 1.5 hours.

Most people visit Glen Rose to see the dinosaur tracks cemented into the mud of the Paluxy River at Dinosaur Valley State Park.

But that isn’t all that Glen Rose has to offer. At Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, visitors can get up close and personal with wildlife, including giraffes, deer, ostriches, and more.

People flock to Big Rocks in the summer to get a break from the Texas heat by dipping into the Paluxy River.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Distance from dallas: 250 miles, just over 4 hours.

Fredericksburg , Texas, is tucked away in the hill country about four hours from Dallas.

What used to be a quiet little German town has recently exploded into one of the top wine destinations in the country, according to Matador Network.

Combining all of the boutique wineries with the outdoor activities, shopping, and great food that Fredericksburg offers makes it easy to see why it is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Hike at Enchanted Rock State Park before enjoying some shopping on Fredericksburg’s Main Street or checking out the National Museum of the Pacific War, the Pioneer Museum, and the Historic Fort Martin Scott.

Waco, Texas

Distance from dallas: 97 miles, 2 hours.

Home to the Baylor Bears, what used to be a college town has grown into a tourist mecca thanks to the popular HGTV series featuring Chip and Joanna Gaines.

The popularity of their show makes Waco one of the getaways from Dallas that can get very crowded on the weekends.

Visit Magnolia Market, grab a sweet treat from Silos Baking Co., or visit the many distilleries, breweries or wineries in the area.

Take time to check out the Waco Mammoth National Monument to see a piece of Waco’s history.

You can’t miss the Dr. Pepper Museum for a piece of Texas cultural history. Dr. Pepper is an iconic Texas soda that people in The Lone Star State are obsessed with.

Jefferson, Texas

Distance from dallas: 167 miles, 3 hours.

After a 2.5-hour drive from Dallas, you will arrive in Jefferson, one of the historic and unique places to see in Texas.

One of the highlights of Jefferson is the historic Jefferson Railway .

Book a trip on the railway’s gas-powered locomotive for an epic ride through the Big Cypress Bayou woods.

Visitors can enjoy delicious treats like root beer floats and pecan pralines at Jefferson’s General Store.

Several historic homes and small museums are also in the area, making Jefferson one of the fun weekend getaways on our list.

Read Next: 23 Fabulous Things to Do in Corpus Christi

Nacogdoches, Texas

Distance from dallas: 163 miles, 3 hours.

To get acclimated with the city, start your weekend getaway at the Nacogdoches Visitor’s Center.

This historic 1917 post office building introduces visitors to some historical artifacts and provides valuable information on things to do with your time this weekend.

To immerse yourself in the history of this area, visit Millard’s Crossing Historic Village, the Sterne-Hoya House Museum and Library, the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site, and the Stone Fort Museum.

Dubbed ‘The Garden Capital of Texas,’ you will find numerous parks, public gardens, and several festivals throughout the year that are associated with gardening.

Of course, you can also shop and eat great food while in Nacogdoches.

All of these things combined are what make Nacogdoches one of the fantastic weekend getaways from Dallas!

Read Next: 20 Best Waterfalls in Texas

Davis, Oklahoma

Distance from dallas: 133 miles, just over 2 hours.

Davis is one of the best weekend getaways for nature lovers.

Surrounded by natural beauty, Davis, OK, is a popular Texan getaway.

One of Davis’s most visited attractions is Turner Falls Park, home to the state’s tallest waterfall.

This 77-foot waterfall empties into a refreshing and popular swimming hole. In addition to the waterfall, Turner Falls has miles of hiking trails, campsites, cabin rentals, a kid’s swimming area, and more.

In addition to Turner Falls, visitors to Davis often visit Arbuckle Wilderness, a drive-thru safari park.

When planning your weekend road trip to Davis, you can include horseback riding, an ATV off-road experience, and an adrenaline-pumping zip line tour!

Marble Falls, Texas

Distance from dallas: 203 miles, 3.5 hours.

On your list of things to do in Marble Falls , be sure to include a trip to the area’s Texas craft breweries and wineries.

Some of our favorites are Bear King Brewing Company, Save the World Brewery and Flat Creek Estate Winery.

Since the town of Marble Falls is located directly on Lake Marble Falls, recreational lake activities are also popular activities on this weekend road getaway.

Downtown Marble Falls allows you to explore fun and unique shops and eat at great restaurants.

Explore the hiking trails at Balcones Canyonland National Wildlife Refuge and an underground cave at Longhorn Caverns State Park.

This is also a great area to see the bluebonnets  if you visit during the springtime!

Wimberley, Texas

Distance from dallas: 232 miles, just over 4 hours.

Another great town to add to your list of trips from Dallas is Wimberley, Texas .

Known to be a thriving artist community, Wimberley offers a fun and unique experience for your weekend trip.

In the summer, people flock to Wimberley to check out the famous swimming holes, Jacob’s Well, and Blue Hole Regional Park.

Of course, swimming isn’t the only thing to do here.

Wimberley is home to award-winning wineries, distilleries, and an olive oil company!

In addition to exploring these, you can check out the local artists’ work when you visit the art galleries throughout this small town.

On the weekend, you can catch live music at some of the restaurants located in Wimberley Square.

Galveston Island, Texas

Distance from dallas: 290 miles, almost 5 hours.

Galveston Island is home to over 30 miles of beaches on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Trips from Dallas to Galveston Island allow you to enjoy the Texas beaches , an interesting history, a great food scene, and fabulous resorts.

During your time in Galveston, you must visit Galveston Island State Park to enjoy kayaking, hiking and biking trails, bird watching, fishing, and more.

When you are ready to leave the beach and explore Galveston Island, we suggest heading straight for the historic Galveston Strand area.

The Strand contains fantastic boutique shops, live music venues, and fun restaurants.

While on the island, check out the Galveston Railroad Museum, take a fun dolphin-watching cruise, and ride amusement park-style rides on Galveston’s Historic Pleasure Pier.

Trips from Dallas to Big Cities

Austin, texas, distance from dallas: 195 miles, 3.5 hours.

If you want your weekend getaways to include big cities, you must include a  weekend in Austin , Texas.

You can check out Austin’s live music and nightlife scene by heading to Rainey Street or Sixth Street, which is famous for its nightlife.

Austin is also home to one of the largest urban bat populations in the country.

Head to the Congress Avenue Bridge to see the bats take flight for their evening feeding.

If you are looking for outdoor activities for your weekend trips, visit Zilker Park, Mayfield Park, Barton Springs, and Lady Bird Lake, one of the lakes in Austin .

San Antonio, Texas

Distance from dallas: 274 miles, almost 5 hours.

A major tourist draw in San Antonio is the San Antonio River Walk, the perfect place to enjoy fabulous restaurants, bars, and excellent hotels.

Near the River Walk, you will also find the charming area of San Antonio known as La Villita, an area to see some local artists and learn more about the city’s history.

Visit the San Antonio Mission Trail and the world-famous Alamo or check out the many theme parks that call San Antonio home.

Houston, Texas

Distance from dallas: 240 miles, 4 hours.

Houston will have you visiting world-class museums, the NASA Space Center, sporting activities, and a thriving nightlife scene.

People from all over the country flock to Houston to the Space Center Houston to experience space exploration hands-on.

This city offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation during weekend getaways.

There are numerous lakes in Houston as well as free things to do in Houston

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Distance from dallas: 206 miles, 3.3 hours.

Another one of the out-of-state weekend getaways from Dallas is Oklahoma City.

A visit to the Myriad Botanic Gardens will surround you with beautiful flora and fauna, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a live performance!

While the outdoor gardens are free to explore, I suggest paying the small entry fee to enter the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory as well.

Visiting the Bricktown entertainment district gives you access to fabulous restaurants, bars, live music venues, comedy clubs, and more.

Of course, there are several museums and historic sites to check out in Oklahoma City.

Some noteworthy stops include the Oklahoma City Museum of Art , the Oklahoma City National Memorial, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum , and the Oklahoma Railway Museum .

Little Rock, Arkansas

Distance from dallas: 319 miles, 5 hours.

Start visiting Little Rock by touring the Arkansas State Capital building before checking out the Old State House Museum or the Historic Arkansas Museum.

Riverfront Park is a popular place for locals and tourists. Encompassing 33 acres, It has a great outdoor area, a sculpture garden, a historic bridge, and a splash park!

When hungry, check out the River Market District, home to 10,000 square feet of fun stores and restaurants.

Located in the city’s downtown area, there is a great view of the river.

You will also find art galleries, five historic missions, and some museums near the River Market District.

Fort Worth, Texas

Distance from dallas: 32 miles, 45 minutes.

Fort Worth offers an excellent cowboy culture, fabulous live entertainment, and a thriving but laid-back nightlife scene.

Suppose you want to immerse yourself in the city’s cowboy culture and cowboy history during your weekend getaways. In that case, you should consider staying in the Fort Worth Stockyards.

You can watch the daily cattle drive, take in a rodeo, eat some delicious Texas BBQ, and go two-stepping in the World’s Largest Honky Tonk, Billy Bob’s Texas.

If you are ok with your trips from Dallas to Fort Worth, not including the cowboy scene, you might want to stay in the downtown Sundance Square area.

The Sundance Square area of Fort Worth is home to delicious, upscale Texas cuisine, several live performance venues, and some great nightlife.

Nature-Focused Getaways from Dallas

Colorado bend state park, texas, distance from dallas: 196 miles, 3.5 hours.

When people first visit Colorado Bend State Park, they wonder if they are still in Texas, thanks to the beautiful Gormon Falls, which are located inside the Park.

Gorman Falls looks like a beautiful waterfall you would see in the jungles of Coast Rica, not Texas! This 60-70-foot waterfall is truly breathtaking.

Of course, Gormon Falls is not the only reason to visit Colorado Bend State Park. You can also enjoy the park’s hiking and biking trails, kayak on the Colorado River, and pitch camp at the many campsites.

Caddo Lake, Texas

Caddo Lake is one of the most beautiful places in Texas, in our opinion. It truly feels like you are living inside a tranquil painting.

You can set up camp at Caddo Lake State Park or check out the cabin rentals in nearby small towns, like Jefferson.

During your weekend visit to Caddo Lake, you must get out on the water! You can take a boat tour or rent kayaks.

Take note, though, that if you choose to set out on your own in kayaks, be careful, as you can easily get lost on this lake.

Caddo Lake’s majesty is the beauty of the Spanish moss hanging from the 400+-year-old Cypress trees that seem to pop up out of the water.

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

Distance from dallas: 294 miles, 4.5 hours.

Hot Springs National Park has drawn visitors to Hot Springs for hundreds of years.

The ancient thermal springs were known to have healing properties that many still believe in today.

A visit to Hot Springs National Park allows you to explore the historic bathhouses on Bathhouse Row, including the historic Fordyce Bathhouse Museum and Visitor Center.

Of course, no visit to Hot Springs National Park would be complete without experiencing the thermal waters for yourself at Buckstaff Bathhouse or Quapaw Bathhouse.

Of course, that isn’t all there is to do in Hot Springs.

Enjoy the miles of trails, the beautiful botanic gardens, and the great restaurants this area offers.

Broken Bow, Oklahoma

Distance from dallas: 171 miles, 3 hours.

The town of Broken Bow is a super popular destination for weekend getaways, thanks to its setting in the Ouachita Mountains.

During your time in Broken Bow, you can go fishing, hiking, wine tasting, horseback riding, and more!

Broken Bow truly has something for everyone. You can easily see why it is a top destination for weekend getaways from Dallas!

Final Thoughts on Weekend Trips from Dallas

Friends, we have only scratched the surface of weekend getaways from Dallas.

There are truly so many more great destinations that we could add to this list.

Whether you are looking for a getaway to the Texas Hill Country, the Texas coast, a Texas city, or a whole other state, you can easily make that happen from Dallas!

What would you add to our list of getaways from Dallas? Comment below and let us know.

Until next time, happy and safe travels, friends!

Like This Post? Please Share It On Social Media!

Read These Posts Next:

The 20 Best Places to Visit in Texas

18 Best Lakes in Texas for a Fun Weekend Getaway

Christmas in Dallas: 21 Festive Holiday Events

65 Awesome Texas Quotes and Texas Captions

5 Reasons to Visit Addison Oktoberfest

8 Wineries in East Texas You Must Visit

Castroville, TX: 9 Reasons to Visit the Little Alsace of Texas

11 Reasons to Visit the Charming Town of Kingsland, TX

Weekend Getaways in Texas

7 Fun Things to Do in Muenster, TX

30 Charming Small Towns in Texas

21 Fun Things to Do in Denton, TX

Tubing in Texas: Your Ultimate Guide to Float the River in Texas

24 Awesome Things to Do in Port Aransas

9 Fun Things to Do in Johnson City, TX

15 Fun Things to Do in Canyon Lake

27 Fun Things To Do In New Braunfels

The Ultimate New Braunfels Tubing Guide

Things to do in Marble Falls

7 Perfect Texas Road Trips

Great Lavender Fields in Texas and Lavender Festivals to Visit

Driving from Dallas to San Antonio: Stops and Tips

Lakes in Houston That Are Worth a Visit

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.

Monday 23rd of October 2023

In Jefferson Texas the Jefferson Railway apparently no longer runs, on the website it says that the owners have retired

Thank you so much for this information, Robin. I will update the article. :)

Sunday 25th of June 2023

Caddo Lake looks so cool - and quite different from what I imagine when thinking of Texas. Hopefully I will see it one day!

Monday 26th of June 2023

Caddo Lakes is a unique lake for sure. It's crystal clear and so beautiful. I hope you get to check it out one day!

Great article! I didn’t realize there are so many great places that close to Dallas! Hot Springs sounds amazing.

Thank you so much, Jill. Yes, Dallas has loads of cool places within a few hours drive. I hope you get to explore some of them.

Saturday 24th of June 2023

I absolutely need to take my little girl who loves all things dinosaur to Glen Rose. Thank you for sharing this!

You really should! It's such a great place for kids!

Best US Cities to Celebrate Halloween - The Homebody Tourist

Friday 9th of September 2022

[…] how New Orleans is a fun getaway from Dallas, we visit often.  I have to admit, New Orleans is definitely one of the best cities in the US […]

18 Best weekend getaways from Dallas

Looking for ideas for best weekend getaways from Dallas to escape the Big D?

The Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area has several urban attractions as well as outdoor activities, but sometimes you just need to load up the car and take off towards a brand new attraction.

Luckily, a variety of weekend trips are within easy reach of Dallas.

From charming beach towns on the Gulf Coast and sprawling cities to hardwood forests and rugged mountains, you will find some amazing destinations on an easy drive away from Dallas.

Also Read: Best Road Trips from Dallas

Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas

Most of these Dallas escapes are within 3 hours drive from the city and offer a variety of activities for all ages and interests.

From romantic getaways in the Central Texas Wine Country to amazing road trips in North Texas, here are some of the best weekend getaways from Dallas.

Also Read: 20 Romantic Date Ideas in Dallas

Fort Worth may be located just one hour away from Dallas….

…..but it has so many attractions that it makes the perfect weekend getaway.

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is the top attraction for most visitors.

The cattle drive which features the famous Texas Longhorns attracts thousands of visitors.

You can also take the Stockyards Heritage Trail to visit other historic buildings.

The city also has several world-class museums which are worth a visit.

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History offers six floors of interactive exhibits, many with an emphasis on Texas heritage.

The art museums in the cultural District are also top-notch.

The Amon Carter Museum of American Art features artwork from the 19th century to today.

The Kimbell Art Museum is known for its superior collection that includes artworks by Monet and Picasso.

Foodies will enjoy a trip to Sundance Square where they can find a wide range of restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.

You can also enjoy shopping and dining in the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.

San Antonio

San Antonio, located about 4 hours away, is one of the most popular weekend getaways in Texas.

The famous attraction here is the San Antonio River Walk .

The River Walk is a network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River.

Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, sightseeing, boat cruise, and more at this festive attraction.

San Antonio is the most visited city in the state and has many historic sites for visitors.

Visit the Alamo, the site of the famous Battle of the Alamo which marks an important moment in Texas history.

The Alamo together with other San Antonio Missions forms a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city is also amongst the most romantic getaways for couples.

Spend some time in the vibrant Pearl District and enjoy live entertainment in the Riverwalk bars on your trip.

Read our post on Dallas to San Antonio Road Trip to plan this trip.

About six hours from Dallas, Amarillo offers a variety of attractions.

The city is located on Route 66 and has a large number of attractions for roadtrippers.

Those interested in history should not miss the opportunity to visit the panhandle-plains museum.

Cadillac Ranch , which features graffiti art on the back of 10 Cadillacs buried nose down, is another popular Amarillo attraction.

You can also pay a visit to the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame and Museum if you are into horses or if you want to learn more about this fascinating species.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon State Park located in the Texas Panhandle near Amarillo is one of the best weekend getaways from North Texas.

The state park is home to Palo Duro Canyon, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the Lone Star State.

This is the second-largest canyon in America and is known as the Grand Canyon of Texas.

The state park is popular for horseback riding, hiking, camping, mountain biking, and stargazing.

Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park located in the Hill Country is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas for nature lovers.

The park is home to Gorman Falls, the tallest waterfall in Texas.

The 70ft tall waterfall can be accessed via the Gorman Falls Trail.

The 3-mile round-trip Gorman Falls hike is of moderate difficulty and leads to amazing views of the cascading waterfall.

Colorado Bend State Park also has several other popular Trails including Spicewood Springs Trail and the Dogwood Canyon Trail.

The Spicewood Springs Trail is a family-friendly hike that will lead you to the popular swimming hole.

Colorado Bend State Park is also popular for camping, wildflowers, bird watching, and kayaking.

Waco is one of the best weekend getaways in Dallas for families.

Here you will find a famous National Park site, Waco Mammoth National Monument .

Waco is also home to several other attractions including the Dr. Pepper Bottling Museum and the famous Magnolia Market .

Take a walk around downtown Waco to enjoy its small-town charm and local eateries.

Waco also makes a great place to stop on the Dallas Austin road trip.

With a warm tropical temperature year-round, Galveston Island is a great place for a beach getaway.

Galveston Island is known for its sandy beaches, historic sites in the downtown Strand District, Moody Gardens, and the Historic Pleasure Pier.

Enjoy a day on the beach and an evening stroll on the Seawall.

Visit Galveston Island State Park to bird-watch, hike, kayak, or simply enjoy a fun family picnic.

Oklahoma City

Located just across the border, Oklahoma City makes a perfect weekend getaway from Dallas.

This road trip is just three and a half hours long and has plenty of attractions for cultural travelers.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features Western art, artifacts, and history exhibits.

Other attractions in the city include Oklahoma City National Memorial, the Myriad Botanical Gardens, and the Oklahoma City Zoo.

Houston , located less than 4 hours south of the city, is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas.

The city of Houston is a great place to visit with kids.

Visit Houston Space Center to learn more about Texas’ role in space exploration and to get a close look at the Space Shuttle.

The Houston Museum of Natural Science is a great place to take dinosaur crazy kids to see T-Rex and Triceratops skeletons.

The Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit for art lovers.

Houston has several other attractions including Houston Zoo, Hermann Park, Downtown Aquarium, Historic Heights , and Kemah Boardwalk.

If you are in search of some fun outdoor activities to do on this weekend trip, consider kayaking the Buffalo Bayou.

Also Read: Dallas to Houston Drive

Palestine located in the Piney Woods Region of East Texas is one of the most popular weekend trips from Dallas.

Downtown Palestine has beautifully restored historic buildings, boutiques, and restaurants.

The Texas State Railroad offers vintage train rides.

During winter, the railroad features the special Excursion, Polar Express .

On the ride, kids can meet Santa Claus and visit the North Pole, making Palestine an extremely popular destination during the holiday season.

The region is also known for its wine.

Visit the wineries along the Piney Woods wine trail.

Step into a tasting room and sip a glass of merlot or Pinot Noir.

Beautiful and serene Lake Palestine is great for those who love the outdoors.

Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is one of the most underrated national parks in the country.

The urban park has thermal springs with water as hot as 116 degrees!

These hot spring pools are an ideal setting for a relaxing weekend trip from Dallas.

Hot Springs National Park is also known for its hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and historic bathhouses.

The best time to visit Hot Springs National Park is in fall.

Talimena National Scenic byway

For an amazing fall Road Trip near Dallas, drive the beautiful Talimena National Scenic byway .

The byway takes you on a drive through the Ouachita Mountains.

En route, stop at the Winding Stairs Mountain overlook to take in sweeping views of the mountains and valleys below.

Caddo Lake State Park

Caddo Lake located in East Texas is the largest natural lake in the state.

Here you will find a unique landscape of bald cypress trees, Spanish moss hanging from oak trees, and diverse wildlife species.

Caddo Lake State Park, located along the lakeshore, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Texas.

Spend some time outdoors exploring the beautiful landscape on foot or canoe.

Caddo Lake State Park also offers camping, fishing, hiking trails, historic sites, wildlife watching, and more.

Beavers Bend State Park

Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Beavers Bend State Park is known for its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere.

Visitors can explore the many trails that wind through the park, or relax by the serene lakeside.

Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled weekend or a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the park is a great weekend trip from Dallas.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is a charming German Town located in the Texas Hill Country.

It is one of the most popular small towns in Texas and has plenty of attractions.

Browse through the art galleries on Main Street and check the souvenir shops.

Military enthusiasts should visit the National Museum of the Pacific War.

Fredericksburg is also located smack dab in the middle of the Texas Wine Country.

You will find several wineries and tasting rooms downtown as well as around the city.

One of the best times to plan the Dallas Fredericksburg trip is during Christmas.

Fredericksburg is one of the best places to spend Christmas in Texas.

The city has a traditional German pyramid and a popular night parade to ring in the holidays.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Glen Rose , the Dinosaur capital of Texas is one of the most unique weekend getaways near Dallas.

The most popular attraction in Glen Rose is the Dinosaur Valley State Park.

Here you will find several hiking trails that lead you to hundreds of fossilized dinosaur tracks.

Walking through the Paluxy River bed in Dinosaur Valley State Park and searching for footsteps left behind by the prehistoric beasts is the ultimate outdoor adventure for dinosaur crazy kids .

Dinosaur World, located nearby, is an excellent place to see life-size dinosaur sculptures including Stegosaurus, T-Rex, and Brachiosaurus.

Another most visited attraction in Glen Rose is the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center.

In this drive-through animal safari, kids can feed deer, llamas, zebras, and more animals.

Downtown Glen Rose also has many attractions and makes a popular weekend getaway in the Lone Star State.

The Dallas Austin Road Trip is one of our favorite weekend trips in the area.

Austin is the state capital of Texas and a vibrant, bustling city.

It is home to several attractions including the state capitol building, Lady Bird Lake, Congress Avenue bat colony, and Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs.

Austin is also famous for its music scene and is known as the live music capital of the world.

On a visit to the city, you can enjoy a variety of performances and events at the city’s live music venues.

Austin also enjoys a prime location to visit the state parks in Central Texas.

Looking for a quick and easy Dallas weekend getaway? Consider Wimberley, Texas.

This small town is located just outside of Austin and is well known for its charming shops and restaurants.

Visitors can explore the scenic Hill Country or take a dip in the famous Blue Hole regional park.

With its laid-back atmosphere and close proximity to Dallas, Wimberley makes the perfect weekend getaway destination.

New Braunfels

New Braunfels is one of our favorite small towns for weekend trips.

In downtown, you will find the beautiful Courthouse, historic buildings, street art, Farmers Market, and local cafes.

The popular Natural Bridge Caverns are also located here.

The town is located 30 miles Northeast of San Antonio and is a gateway to the Guadalupe River.

Some popular outdoor activities in New Braunfels include tubing, kayaking, hiking, and camping along the river.

New Braunfels also has several amusement parks including Schlitterbahn Water Park Resort.

Historic Gruene , located close to New Braunfels, is home to the oldest dance hall in Texas.

Visitors can see a concert, dine at the Old Grist Mill Cafe, and also shop for antiques in Gruene.

Texas Hill Country bluebonnet road trip

The Bluebonnet trails in the Texas Hill Country are one of our favorite weekend getaways from Dallas during spring.

Visitors can take a road trip around the Highland Lakes region from late March to early April to enjoy the gorgeous bluebonnet fields.

Some of the best places to see the bluebonnets in the Hill Country include Llano, Burnet, and Marble Falls .

Burnet has a bluebonnet Festival while the summit trail at Enchanted Rock offers a panoramic view of the blooming flowers.

Located in Central Texas, Salado is a small town with a big history.

Founded in the 1850s, Salado was a key stop on the Chisholm Trail, and later became an important center for cotton production.

Today, visitors can explore Salado’s rich past at the Stagecoach Inn Museum as well as the Mill Village Historic Site.

The town is also home to a number of art galleries and shops, as well as annual festivals like the Art in the Park celebration.

Chalk Ridge Falls Park in Belton is a hidden gem near Salado, Texas.

The park features a beautiful waterfall that cascades over limestone cliffs into a creek below.

If you live in Dallas and want a quick, exciting weekend getaway with the family while experiencing some of Texas’ best scenery, consider these destinations.

What is your favorite weekend getaway from Dallas? Let us know in the comments!

Love this post? Share it!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

35 Best Weekend Getaways From Dallas — Quick Trips!

By: Author Anika Turner

Posted on Published: January 14, 2023  - Last updated: October 2, 2023

Dallas is the perfect place to go on a weekend adventure.

It’s not just because this Texan city is home to historical sites and museums waiting to be explored.

It’s also because the Big D sits in a prime location, making it the perfect jump-off point to other beautiful places on the outskirts.

This means if you’ve seen all there is to see in the city, you can still explore and carry on with your adventures.

Not convinced?

Discover the best weekend getaways from Dallas that I’ve handpicked for you on the list below.

1. The Cliffs

160 Cliffs Drive Grafod, TX 76449 (940) 779-4502

Nestled 200 feet above the Possum Kingdom Lake, this resort allows for incredible views of natural canyons and rolling hills.

It’s home to an 18-hole golf course, a hotel, and pools.

If you’re coming from Dallas, you can get to The Cliffs in 1 hour and 53 minutes.

This is one of the last minute weekend getaways from Dallas you can’t miss.

With the resort’s many recreational facilities, you won’t run out of things to do here.

Challenge your friends to a game of golf.

If you’re not in the mood to play, swim in any of the resort’s three pools.

You can also get your daily dose of exercise in the fitness center.

Have the ultimate relaxation in the spa afterward for one of the best Dallas area weekend getaways you’ll ever have.

2. Rough Creek Lodge and Resort

5165 County Road 2013 Glen Rose, TX 76043 (800) 864-4705

This resort stretches for around 11,000 acres of land in the foothills of the picturesque Texas Hill Country.

It features lakes or ponds, a water park, and a zipline.

You can get to the Rough Creek Lodge and Resort in 1 hour and 34 minutes if you use a car from Dallas.

Looking for places near Dallas for vacation?

Check out the Rough Creek Lodge and Resort.

The resort has everything you need, making it one of the best getaways in Dallas or nearby.

The kids can enjoy the pool and the lazy river while you relax in the cabana.

If you prefer a more physical activity, how does paintballing or horseback riding sound?

You’ll agree this is one of the short trips from Dallas worth making after your weekend adventure.

3. Texas Hill Country Wineries

Hill Country, TX (512) 463-2000

This geographical region encompasses a stretch of Central and Southern Texas.

It’s famous for its rugged topography and wineries.

If you’re coming from Dallas, you can get to the Texas Hill Country Wineries in four hours.

Are you an oenophile?

The Texas Hill Country Wineries should be your destination.

You can sample newly released wines from over 100 wineries, including the William Chris Vineyards in Hye and the Becker Vineyards in Stonewall.

It’s one of the best romantic getaways from Dallas, too.

After all, the beautiful wineries provide the perfect setting for your bonding moment with your significant other.

Recommended Hotel: WorldMark Hunt – Stablewood Springs Resort

4. The Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa

1549 Legacy Drive Frisco, TX 75034 (972) 668-8000

This resort sits on 400 acres of land in Frisco.

It offers a spa, a pool with cascading waterfalls, and a fitness studio.

The travel time from Dallas to this resort is 27 minutes by car.

Don’t look any further for the best places for a weekend trip near you.

The Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa is the perfect place to go.

You won’t run out of fun things to do here.

Take the kids to the pool so they can splash around and go down the waterslide.

If you’re with friends, challenge them to a game of golf on the resort’s 18-hole championship course.

Prefer just to relax?

Check out the Well & Being Spa.

Enjoy a eucalyptus steam shower for a cool overnight trip overall.

5. Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center

1501 Gaylord Trail Grapevine, TX 76051 (817) 778-1000

This resort stands on the shores of the beautiful Lake Grapevine.

It’s home to a 10-acre water park, a spa, and a wide array of dining options.

The Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center is a 26-minute drive from Dallas.

If you’re searching for the perfect weekend getaway, Dallas and its vicinity have plenty of options.

You can stay in a ranch in Dallas for the complete country experience.

But if you prefer the big city experience, luxurious resorts, such as Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, are the place to be.

At this resort, in particular, you can have your daily workout in the state-of-the-art fitness center.

You can enjoy the pool, too.

Go down the 27-foot water slide for an exhilarating experience.

Then cap off your adventure with delicious pasta from Zeppole Coastal Italian.

Related: Hotels in Dallas-Fort Worth

6. Beaumont Ranch

10736 County Road 102 Grandview, TX 76050 (817) 866-4000

This ranch sits on 800 acres of land in the rolling hills of Grandview.

It’s home to two barns, rustic guest cabins, and retreat spaces.

If you’re coming from Dallas, you can drive to Beaumont Ranch in 54 minutes.

On this ranch, you can expect an experience similar to what you get in your Dallas weekend getaways.

Get up close and personal with real llamas and goats on the property.

Beaumont, after all, continues to operate as a working cattle ranch.

You can join a cattle round-up and explore the entire facility on horseback.

Try the ranch’s ropes course if you’re up for the challenge.

Don’t worry.

Just take your pick from the 26 individually decorated guest rooms for the ultimate relaxation.

7. Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa

575 Hyatt Lost Pines Road Cedar Creek, TX 76812 (512) 308-1234

This resort encompasses 405 acres of land along the Lower Colorado River.

It is home to a golf course, a spa, and an equestrian facility.

The resort is over 214 miles away from Dallas.

You can reach it in 3 hours and 17 minutes by car.

This is one of the long weekend trips from Dallas worth your time and effort.

The resort, after all, provides the perfect wilderness escape.

Explore the grounds on horseback under the gorgeous Texas skies.

Prefer a water adventure?

How does winding down a lazy river at the Crooked River Waterpark sound?

You can join a group around an outdoor firepit at night and enjoy your delicious s’mores under the starry skies.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Bastrop Pines Inn

8. La Cantera Resort & Spa

16641 La Cantera Parkway San Antonio, TX 78256 (210) 558-6500

Perched on a hilltop, this resort allows for sweeping views of Texas Hill Country.

It’s home to a championship golf course, a spa, and a 3,100-square-foot pavilion.

You can reach La Cantera Resort & Spa from Dallas in 4 hours and 12 minutes.

This may not be one of the cheap vacations from Dallas, but it’s worth it.

Even if you spend an entire weekend here, you won’t run out of fun activities.

Immerse in the beautiful San Antonio scenery while you explore the property.

Want to do some sports?

Play a round of golf at the Resort Course.

You can take some archery lessons afterward.

Then relax in a SkyLoft treatment cabana at the Loma de Vida Spa and Wellness.

It’s the perfect place to meditate, with its gorgeous nature views from above.

9. Inn on Barons Creek

308 South Washington Street Fredericksburg, TX 78624 (830) 990-9202

This hotel is in the heart of Texas Hill Country, just steps away from downtown Fredericksburg.

It features a spa, a heated outdoor pool, and a fitness center.

If you use a car, you can get to the Inn on Barons Creek in 4 hours and 12 minutes if you’re coming from Dallas.

Enjoy one of the best and most inexpensive weekend getaways near Dallas.

Although relatively small, the inn has a lot to offer its guests just looking to relax and have a great time.

Have a therapeutic massage at The Spa.

You can just sit around in the heated pool afterward.

If you get tired of staying indoors, explore Main Street.

Just venture across the road to the National Museum of the Pacific War for some history.

Take your pick from the vast array of dining options in the area after that for the perfect meal.

Recommended Hotel: Fredericksburg Inn and Suites

Related: Fun Weekend Getaways in Texas

10. The San Luis Resort

5222 Seawall Boulevard Galveston, TX 77551 (409) 744-1500

This resort stretches for 32 acres on beautiful Galveston Island.

It is home to a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.

The San Luis Resort is 289 miles away from Dallas.

If you travel by car, you can get to the resort in 4 hours and 23 minutes.

Who says you can’t have the time of your life if you stay put in one place?

The San Luis Resort offers a lot, so every minute of your stay is pure fun.

Take a swim in the outdoor pool under the gorgeous Texas skies.

With its complete workout equipment, you can continue your daily exercise in the fitness center.

If you opt for the relaxation route, just stay in your private cabana and drink champagne.

Don’t forget your spa treatment afterward.

11. T Bar M Camps & Retreats

2549 TX-46 New Braunfels, TX 78132 (830) 620-4263

This retreat center and camp is near the Comal River.

The sprawling property is home to a tennis court, landscaped nature trails, and 12,000 square feet of event space.

It will take 3 hours and 46 minutes to get to T Bar M Camps & Retreats in New Braunfels from Dallas.

Enjoy a unique variation of your typical Dallas vacations here.

Experience summer camp again, this time with the family.

Go on the high ropes and team-building course with the kids for your workout.

You can play sand volleyball after if you still have some energy.

After an activity-filled day, head to the game room.

The kids will love the Xbox 360 and Xbox Kinect games there.

Recommended Hotel: Gruene River Hotel & Retreat

12. Hotel Saint Cecilia

112 Academy Drive Austin, TX 78704 (512) 852-2400

This hotel is just steps away from the south of Austin.

It features a Victorian home, spacious sylvan grounds, and a pool.

The hotel is 198 miles away from Dallas so expect a 3-hour driving time to get here.

This hotel is perfect for history buffs looking for the perfect relaxing experience.

Hotel Saint Cecilia’s main structure is a Victorian home that takes you back to the 1900s.

Explore the manicured lawn that looks just like the ones you see in old pictures.

This is not to say you won’t find the big city life amenities here.

There’s a 50-foot heated lap pool for your morning workout.

Each room comes with a mini-bar stocked with food and some local and European products.

13. JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa

23808 Resort Parkway San Antonio, TX 78261 (210) 276-2500

This resort is set amid 600 acres of oak-covered hills.

It features a 9-acre water park, including a 1,100-foot lazy river and 268,000 square feet of event space.

From Dallas, it will take 4 hours and 3 minutes to get to this resort by car.

Want to experience luxury and enjoy nature at the same time?

JW Marriott is just the place for you.

Swim in the hotel’s huge pool, complete with its cascading waterfalls.

If you want a dry experience instead, play a round of golf on any of the two 18-hole championship courses.

You’ll get incredible views of the nature landscape while you’re at it.

Are you tired of staying in the resort?

Check out the beautiful wineries nearby.

You can sample some of the wine for the complete experience.

14. Omni Corpus Christi Hotel

900 North Shoreline Boulevard Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 887-1600

This hotel in the downtown Marina district is just 15 minutes away from the Corpus Christi International Airport.

It features a fitness center, pools, and an indoor racquetball court.

Expect a 6-hour drive from Dallas to Omni Corpus Christi Hotel.

Pamper yourself in this beautiful hotel that sits in a prime location.

Relax in the indoor heated pool, complete with a poolside bar.

There’s an outdoor pool, too, if you prefer to stay under Texas skies while swimming.

15. Grand Galvez

2024 Seawall Boulevard Galveston, TX 77550 (409) 765-7721

This resort opened to the public as Hotel Galvez in 1911 and has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

It features 224 elegantly furnished rooms, a spa, and a fitness center.

Grand Galvez is 4 hours and 43 minutes away from Dallas by car.

Experience history and luxury at the same time in this elegant hotel.

Enjoy the hotel’s Great Gatsby theme, with its black and white hallways and Queen of the Gulf mosaic tile.

As soon as you arrive, get the pampering you need in the hydrotherapy or eucalyptus steam rooms.

There’s a fitness center you can use for your exercise, too.

Just want to relax?

Read your favorite book in the 1911 cafe that serves Starbucks coffee.

16. Sara’s Inn

941 Heights Boulevard Houston, TX 77008 (713) 868-1130

This elegant inn is in Houston Heights.

It offers 15 air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-fi, and a mini-fridge.

You can get to Sara’s Inn in 3 hours and 47 minutes if you travel by car.

Sara’s Inn is the perfect place to spend your weekend getaway without breaking the bank.

The inn provides the comfort you need for the weekend.

You can enjoy peace in your room.

Watch your favorite movies on a flat-screen TV.

Enjoy the food from the mini-fridge while you’re at it.

After your relaxation, you can head out and explore the top attractions near the area.

Watch a show at the restored early-1900s Theater Houston.

Check out the neighborhood’s murals for the perfect art experience.

17. Mokara Hotel & Spa

212 West Crockett Street San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 396-5800

This hotel is in downtown San Antonio.

It is home to a 17,000-square-foot spa, a rooftop cafe, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

If you drive from Dallas, you can get to Mokara Hotel & Spa in 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Enjoy an incredible weekend adventure at the Mokara Hotel & Spa.

You can have a great time both inside and outside the hotel.

Have the ultimate relaxing experience in any of the hotel’s 18 private treatment rooms.

You can relax in the heated rooftop pool afterward for gorgeous views of the Texas sky.

After your indoor relaxation, head outdoors and explore downtown San Antonio.

Check out the shops along the San Antonio River.

The Alamo is a must-see, too.

It’s less than a mile away.

18. Hotel Granduca

1080 Uptown Park Boulevard Houston, TX 77056 (713) 418-1000

Opening in 2006, this hotel is in the heart of Uptown Park.

It features 122 luxuriously decorated suites, a pool, and fitness facilities.

You can get to Hotel Granduca from Dallas in 3 hours and 53 minutes if you use a vehicle.

Take your significant other to Hotel Granduca for the perfect bonding time.

Explore the beautiful courtyard together when you arrive.

You can swim in the pool for your daily workout.

Up for a challenge?

Play a game of pool against each other at the cozy Sala del Bigliardo.

If you’re both more of the outdoor types, don’t worry.

You can easily access tourist attractions from the hotel.

The Museum of Fine Arts and the Waterwall are just a stone’s throw away.

19. Inn on Lake Granbury

205 West Doyle Street Granbury, TX 76048 (817) 573-0046

This inn is on Lake Granbury in North Texas.

It features saunas, personal fireplaces, and beautiful views of the lake.

If you’re coming from Dallas, you can get to the Inn on Lake Granbury in 1 hour and 16 minutes.

The Inn on Lake Granbury is the perfect place to go on a weekend getaway.

It’s not just because it has many amenities you can enjoy. It’s also because it’s in an excellent location.

So after relaxing in your hot tub or the sauna, you can easily explore other must-see places.

Lake Granbury, for instance, is perfect for kayaking and boating.

You can head downtown, too, and check out the shops for your souvenir.

20. Hotel Indigo Waco-Baylor

211 Clay Avenue Waco, TX 76706 (254) 754-7000

This boutique hotel is in the warehouse district, near the Brazos Riverwalk.

It’s home to an indoor and outdoor pool, a patio, and an on-site restaurant.

By car, the travel time from Dallas to Hotel Indigo Waco-Baylor is 1 hour and 24 minutes.

There’s no shortage of things to do if you spend your weekend in this hotel.

Take a dip in the outdoor pool for a beautiful view of the Texas sky.

You can explore the streets outside after your swim.

The Magnolia Market is just a ten-minute walk from the hotel.

The Dr. Pepper and Texas Ranger museums are nearby, too.

Catch a game at McLane Stadium for a weekend well spent.

21. The Lancaster Manor Bed and Breakfast

1306 East California Street Gainesville, TX 76240 (940) 612-9527

The Lancaster Manor Bed and Breakfast is a 135-year-old Spanish Victorian mansion.

It features huge parlors with elegant chandeliers, a garden, and a pool.

You can reach this hotel in 1 hour and 10 minutes from Dallas if you use a car.

Get transported back over 100 years ago in this hotel.

The lodging institution has maintained many of its elements of the past—the original oakwood floors and 1865 dining room chairs, to name a few.

Explore the peaceful gardens, an important element of Victorian homes.

They’re perfect for the nature lover, with their beautiful roses and orange blossoms.

22. Fredericksburg

This city stretches for 5,920 acres in central Texas.

Known for its wineries, it’s also home to museums and historical sites.

If you travel from Dallas, you can reach Fredericksburg in 4 hours and 12 minutes.

The city is just the place for history enthusiasts.

Head to the town square, Marktplatz.

You’ll find the Vereins Kirche, a replica of a 19th-century church that once stood in Fredericksburg.

The Pioneer Museum is a must-visit, too.

You’ll learn more about the city’s German heritage and catch a glimpse of the first settlers’ artifacts.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Fredericksburg

23. Glen Rose

This city is in north-central Texas and has a population of less than 3,000.

It has been touted as the Dinosaur Capital of Texas.

Glen Rose is 76 miles away from Dallas.

You can get there in 1 hour and 16 minutes by car.

Although a small town, it’s a must-visit for its gorgeous Dinosaur Valley.

The valley is a beauty in itself, with the serene waters of the Paluxy River flowing into it.

You’ll see an even more spectacular view when the water becomes shallow.

Recommended Hotel: Baymont Inn & Suites by Wyndham Glen Rose

24. Jefferson

This city in Marion County derives its name from Thomas Jefferson.

It’s home to historical sites, including the Founding Father’s residence.

The travel time from Dallas to Jefferson is 2 hours and 35 minutes if you use a vehicle.

You’ll catch a glimpse of the past as you walk along the streets of Jefferson.

Jefferson General Store is still there since its opening in the 1860s.

The Grove, Thomas Jefferson’s private residence, still stands out in its beautiful Greek Revival style.

Built in 1861, it contains period furniture and decor to enhance your journey into the past.

Don’t forget to check out the Jefferson Historical Museum.

Housed in an 1888 building, it features exhibits of antique guns and a replica of a 1900s railway depot.

Recommended Hotel: Historic Kahn Hotel

25. Galveston

This island city stretches over 135,500 acres on the Gulf Coast of Texas.

It houses the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and beaches.

By car, it will take you 4 hours and 19 minutes to get to Galveston from Dallas.

Take the kids to this place for a weekend they won’t forget.

Try any of the 17 rides in the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, the city’s famous amusement park.

The Moody Gardens are an ideal destination, too.

The young ones can get up close and personal with sharks through glass tunnels.

They can also see parrots and monkeys in their natural habitats.

Take the young ones to the beach if they still have energy left.

You can just sit on the sand, read your favorite novel, or splash around with them in the water.

Recommended Hotel: The Tremont House, Galveston, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

26. Padre Island

Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-8068

This barrier island is on the southern coast of Texas.

It features white sandy beaches, a protected national seashore, and parks.

The travel time from Dallas to Padre Island is 6 hours and 33 minutes.

Immerse in beautiful nature in this place.

Go fishing in Bob Hall Pier for gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Hike the 1.5-mile trail in Isla Blanca Park with the tall trees around you.

You can check out the Padre Island National Seashore, too.

It’s home to rare Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles.

If you prefer an adrenaline-pumping adventure, why not go windsurfing on the Gulf of Mexico?

Recommended Hotel: Island House BeachFront Condo Hotel

27. Grapevine

This Texas city stretches for over 22,000 acres in northeast Tarrant County.

It’s a popular tourist destination for its restored 19th and 20th-century buildings and other historical sites.

It’s just a 23-minute drive from Dallas to Grapevine.

This city is every history lover’s dream.

Go to the Grapevine Vintage Railroad.

You’ll meet Puffy, believed to be the oldest continuously running steam engine in the south.

You can ride a coach like in the old days and explore the area, too.

If you head downtown, you’ll find beautiful buildings dating as far back as the 19th century.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton DFW Lakes Executive Conference Center

28. San Antonio

San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 207-6000

Founded as a Spanish colonial outpost in 1718, San Antonio is the oldest municipality in Texas.

It features a US Armed Forces facility, caverns, and the famous River Walk.

San Antonio is 274 miles away from Dallas.

This means you can get there in 4 hours if you use a car.

There are many fun things to do in San Antonio.

You might want to check out the 18th-century Spanish missions, such as the San Antonio National Historical Park.

Fort Sam Houston is a must-visit, with some of its historic structures dating back to the 18th century.

Take a stroll along the Riverwalk, too.

Also known as Paseo del Rio, you’re bound to find the souvenir to take home from the wide array of shops along the stretch.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk

This state capital of Texas borders the Hill Country region.

It’s home to the University of Texas flagship campus, numerous lakes and rivers, and a vibrant live music scene.

If you drive a vehicle from Dallas, it will take 2 hours and 54 minutes to get to Austin .

If you’re looking for a holistic adventure, Austin is the place to go.

Explore the University of Texas, with its majestic buildings, many of which date back to the 1900s.

Go on a sightseeing cruise on Lady Bird Lake for your nature experience.

Want to see some art?

Wonderspaces should be your destination.

It features 28,000 square feet of art installations that stimulate all your senses.

Recommended Hotel: The Driskill, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

30. New Orleans

Nicknamed the Big Easy, this city on the Mississippi River is famous for its vibrant nightlife.

It’s also home to the French Quarter, Creole cuisine, and museums.

You can travel by car from Dallas.

You’ll reach New Orleans in 7 hours and 35 minutes.

This is one of the longest trips you’ll make from Dallas.

But don’t worry.

When you get to the place, you’ll conclude it was worth it.

New Orleans is a city like no other, with its rich French, African and American cultures combined.

Take a stroll along the French Quarter to view beautiful Creole and Greek Revival architecture that reflects this rich history.

Catch a live show at Spotted Cat for your daily dose of music.

You can enjoy exquisite Creole food for the complete New Orleans experience.

Take your pick from the many dining options along the famous Bourbon Street.

Recommended Hotel: NOPSI Hotel New Orleans

31. Oklahoma City

This city stretches over 397,000 acres in the state’s Frontier Country region.

Oklahoma’s capital is famous for its cowboy culture, historic sites, and parks.

The travel time from Dallas to Oklahoma City is 3 hours and 9 minutes.

This city has a little bit of everything for everyone.

Want to experience history?

Check out the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

It’s home to more than 28,000 Western and American Indian artworks and artifacts.

Want a nature adventure instead?

Take a stroll along the enchanting Myriad Botanical Gardens.

You won’t get enough of the beautiful flowers and cascading waterfalls.

For the music lover, Bricktown Entertainment District is a must-visit.

You can enjoy live music while savoring exquisite food at Michael Murphy’s Dueling Piano Bar or Mojo’s Blues Club.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Oklahoma City Downtown

Related: Places Near Oklahoma City

32. Houston

Houston, TX 77002 (713) 837-0311

This large metropolis stretches for over 429,000 acres in southeast Texas.

It’s home to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, underground tunnels, and museums.

You can get to Houston from Dallas by car.

It will take you only 3 hours and 29 minutes to get there.

If you’re the type who loves anything related to space, then Houston should be your weekend destination.

You’ll find the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center here, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s space flight training and research center.

But that’s not all Houston has to offer.

The city is a haven for historical buildings and sites, too.

Check out the 1910 Harris County Courthouse or the now-JP Morgan Chase Building, which dates back to 1929.

If you want a unique experience, you can explore the city’s web of underground tunnels, too.

Built in the 1930s, they stretch for more than 7.5 miles.

Recommended Hotel: C. Baldwin, Curio Collection by Hilton

This city on the Arkansas River encompasses 129,184 acres of land along the Arkansas River.

It’s home to the Deco District and the Oklahoma Aquarium.

You can reach Tulsa in 4 hours and 10 minutes if you travel by car from Dallas.

Tulsa is a marvel of a city, with its many attractions that can keep you busy.

Take the children to the Oklahoma Aquarium.

It’s one of the best in the country, with exhibits of over 10,000 animals, including 500 species.

If you’re a history enthusiast, you’ll love the Deco District.

Check out the Philtower Building, completed in 1928.

The Philcade Building, completed in 1931, will blow you away just as well with its Art Deco zigzag style of architecture.

Recommended Hotel: Tulsa Club Hotel Curio Collection By Hilton

34. Palo Duro Canyon

11450 State Highway Park Road 5 Canyon, TX 79015 (806) 488-2227

This canyon system stretches for 120 miles in the Texas Panhandle.

It’s famous for its multicolored rock layers and steep mesa walls reminiscent of the Grand Canyon.

From Dallas, you can get to Palo Duro Canyon in 5 hours and 51 minutes if you use a vehicle.

The canyon is worth all your hours on the road to get there.

After all, it’s a natural beauty.

Just picture rugged geological formations with a width that ranges from 6 to 20 miles.

You can explore the canyon on foot.

There are 30 miles of trails that offer spectacular views of the rugged landscape wherever you are.

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

Related: Weekend Getaways From El Paso

35. Colorado Bend State Park

2236 Park Hill Drive Bend, TX 76824 (325) 628-3240

This park opened to the public in 1987.

It’s a popular tourist spot for its karst features, including sinkholes, springs, and caves.

If you drive a vehicle from Dallas, you can reach Colorado Bend State Park in 3 hours and 13 minutes.

The park is a visual treat.

There are many things to do here, too.

Go fishing in the Colorado River, filled with Rio Grande Cutthroat Trouts and Green Sunfish.

Check out the spectacular 70-foot Gorman Falls, then take a tour of the nearby caves.

At the end of your trip, you’ll conclude this is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas that deserve a repeat.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn & Suites

Map of The Best Weekend Getaways From Dallas, TX

35 Best Weekend Trips From Dallas [currentyear]

• Rough Creek Lodge and Resort
• Texas Hill Country Wineries
• The Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa
• Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center
• Beaumont Ranch
• Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa
• La Cantera Resort & Spa
• Inn on Barons Creek
• The San Luis Resort
• T Bar M Camps & Retreats
• Hotel Saint Cecilia
• JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
• Omni Corpus Christi Hotel
• Grand Galvez
• Sara’s Inn
• Mokara Hotel & Spa
• Hotel Granduca
• Inn on Lake Granbury
• Hotel Indigo Waco-Baylor
• The Lancaster Manor Bed and Breakfast
• Fredericksburg
• Padre Island
• San Antonio
• New Orleans
• Oklahoma City
• Palo Duro Canyon
• Colorado Bend State Park

40+ Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas, Texas: Outdoor Adventure, Small Towns & More

March 19, 2024.

If you are looking for a weekend trip from Dallas, look no further! The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is centrally located in the United States, so there is no shortage of weekend trips for a mini-vacation from the area.

This list of over 40 weekend trip ideas from Dallas includes tons of outdoor adventures, charming small towns, hiking trails and more!

Whether you are planning a weekend road trip with your significant other, friends or your family, use this list as a starting point for planning an epic adventure!

All trips on this list are under a 7 hour drive away and include recommendations on when to visit, where to stay, and things to do.

Table of Contents

Dinosaur valley & glen rose, getaway piney woods, tx, the woodlands, college station, jefferson + caddo lake, oklahoma city, wichita mountains wildlife refuge, copper breaks state park, tx, colorado bend state park, buchanan lake, gruene & new braunfels, tx, quartz mountain state park, ok, dripping springs, wimberley, tx, fredericksburg, tx, hot springs, ar, san antonio, tx, beaumont, tx, galveston, tx, caprock canyons, tx, northern oklahoma: gloss mountain, little sahara and salt plains state parks, little rock, ar, amarillo & palo duro, tx, fayetteville, ar, bentonville, ar, mount magazine, ar, garner state park, tx, petit jean state park, ar, eureka springs, ar, final thoughts, for more inspiration for texas, oklahoma and arkansas travel, check out some of the articles below. happy exploring, weekend trips under 2 hours from dallas.

Fort Worth is a quick getaway from Dallas with so much to offer! While the city is most known for the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards and western culture, I personally love exploring the modern downtown area and the museums even more than the Stockyards. No matter how to spend your time, there is plenty to fill up a weekend of exploring in Fort Worth!

Where to Stay in Fort Worth

For a historic boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, take a look at The Ashton ! If this doesn't meet your needs, there are a variety of hotels for every budget in Fort Worth .

When to Visit Fort Worth

The Fort Worth Stockyards host the world’s only year round rodeo, so anytime of year is fair game, but I recommend avoiding the heat of the summer months. If you want to visit during a fun event, Mayfest takes place in early May and has live music and activities for the whole family.

Things To Do in Fort Worth

• Climb down into the unique and picturesque Fort Worth Water Gardens, a water fountain that you can explore from giant steps!
• If you love art, make some time for visits to the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. The museums are very impressive!
• For the classic Fort Worth cowboy experience, the Fort Worth Stockyards are a must-visit! Here you can have a drink in a saloon, attend the rodeo and see the daily cattle drive.
• If you love street art, take a stroll through the colorful Inspiration Alley.
• The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a beautiful place to explore the grounds and spend an afternoon.

Denison is a small town that hugs the border of Texas and Oklahoma. It is known for being the birthplace of former president Dwight Eisenhower but I have been impressed by the art scene, the vibrant downtown Main Street and the nature nearby.

Where to Stay in Denison

For a relaxing and peaceful stay, I recommend glamping at Paradise on Lake Texoma Resort Campground or staying in these beautiful Tiny Cabins on Airbnb . If hotels are more your speed, there are a variety of hotel options in Denison .

When to Visit Denison

Visit during the summertime or when it’s warm outside if you want to spend time swimming in Lake Texoma! Otherwise, anytime of year is nice to visit this area.

Things To Do in Denison

• Explore colorful Main Street and the many shops and restaurants. Visit the boutique 410 Collective for gifts and coffee, the Incubator Rail Yard food hall for a variety of food options and 1880 Ice House for patio seating.
• Eisenhower State Park is right on Lake Texoma and offers hiking, OHV trails and swimming. Rocky cliffs border the lake and make for beautiful scenery.
• If you like history, make a stop at the Eisenhower birthplace, where you can tour the home where Dwight Eisenhower was born.
• Waterloo lake regional park is another great park for hiking. Here you can hike to a cave or enjoy peaceful views of the lake.

Glen Rose is a charming small town that is home to one of my favorite north Texas state parks: Dinosaur Valley! During your trip to Glen Rose, you can explore the trails, swim in the Paluxy River and enjoy the peaceful scenery of the area.

Dinosaur Valley offers some of the best hiking trails near Dallas!

Where to Stay in Glen Rose

For a gorgeous and unique place to stay, be sure to check out Skybox Cabins . Their Birdhouse cabin is treehouse inspired and offers an amazing view. Note that Skybox Cabins are expensive and book up quickly, but there are also a variety of other hotels in Glen Rose to meet your needs.

When to Visit Glen Rose

Visit during warm weather to make the most out of swimming in the Paluxy River! April is also a fantastic time to visit to see the Texas bluebonnets.

Things To Do in Glen Rose

• Dinosaur Valley State Park has miles of hiking trails and is a great place to swim. You can also see real dinosaur tracks right along the Paluxy River.
• Explore historic downtown Glen Rose, where you’ll find the Somerville County Museum and a variety of shops and restaurants.
• Climb over giant boulders and go swimming at Big Rocks Park, located right next to town.
• Go on a safari at Fossil Rim, a wildlife center focused on conservation.

Tyler is a small city in the East Texas Piney Woods with a great mix of restaurants and cultural activities. In Tyler, you can enjoy the beautiful downtown, go hiking nearby and visit interesting museums and gardens.

Where to stay in Tyler

For a unique and local stay, check out Rosevine Inn Bed and Breakfast , a centrally located accommodation with breakfast included. If this doesn’t meet your needs, there are a variety of hotels in Tyler for any budget.

When to Visit Tyler

To see the Tyler Rose Garden in peak bloom, visit in mid-late May or October.

Things to do in Tyler

• Tyler State Park is an amazing hiking destination in North Texas. You can hike through the Piney Woods forest, go swimming or paddling in the lake and even explore some of the trails via mountain bike.
• Visit Kiepersol Winery and Distillery outside of town to enjoy a tasting on a farm or True Vine Brewing Company for craft beer served in a large outdoor patio space.
• Tyler Rose Garden is 14-acres and has over 500 types of roses and other plants. Visit in October to see the roses in bloom and to attend the Rose Garden Festival.
• If you are interested in planes, be sure to visit the Historic Aviation Memorial Museum.

For a relaxing and romantic glamping getaway, book a stay at the Getaway Cabins in Piney Woods . The cabins are located in a secluded, forested area and have beautifully designed interiors.

Getaway Piney Woods is perfect for a romantic getaway from Dallas ! Actually, my partner proposed to me here!

When to Visit Getaway Piney Woods

Anytime of year is great for the Getaway Cabins , but I enjoyed visiting in the winter to get all of the cozy feelings!

Things To Do at the Getaway Cabins

• Spend time outside by the fire pit and make some s’mores.
• Explore the hiking trails on the property.
• Read a book or spend time journaling.
• Lock up your phone is their phone lockbox and connect with your partner or write a letter to your future self.

Waco is most known for the Magnolia Silos but there is a ton to do in this central Texas city! There is something for everyone, whether you’re looking for history, home decor, outdoor activities or great food. Waco can be an easy day trip from Dallas , but it’s worth spending an entire weekend to see more of what the city has to offer.

Where to Stay in Waco

There are a variety of hotels in Waco! I recommend choosing a centrally located mid-range hotel like Hotel Indigo Waco or the Hilton Waco .

When to Visit Waco

Anytime of year is nice to visit Waco, but I recommend avoiding the heat of the summer.

Things to do in Waco

• The Magnolia Silos are an iconic place to visit during your trip to Waco! Visit for a pastry and some shopping if you are a fan of the HGTV show ‘Fixer Upper.’
• Waco is home to an impressive collection of mammoth fossils! Visit Mammoth National Monument to learn about how the mammoths who roamed the area thousands of years ago.
• Did you know that Dr Pepper originated in Texas? Visit the Dr Pepper Museum to learn all about the history and to taste some unique soda flavors!
• If you enjoy hiking, visit Cameron Park for miles of trails and views overlooking the Brazos River.

Hico’s tagline is “Where Everybody is Somebody” and you’ll feel right at home in this welcoming small town. There are quaint shops, historic buildings and some beautiful murals around town.

Where to stay in Hico

Hico offers a beautiful glamping location at Off the Vine RV Park ! The beautifully decorated trailers are the perfect place to relax and unwind.

When to Visit Hico

Anytime of year is nice to visit Hico, but spring and fall will offer the best weather for exploring.

Things to do in Hico

• Step back into western outlaw history at the Billy the Kid Museum.
• Explore the shops and restaurants in quaint downtown Hico. I recommend visiting 2nd Street Bakeshop for breakfast, Flacas Fitness & Brews for a smoothie and Hico Mercantile for a variety of gifts inside of an old Opera House.

Weekend Trips Under 4 Hours from Dallas

Paris, Texas is a small town east of Dallas that holds the title of the second largest “Paris” in the world. The town has some beautiful architecture and some quirky attractions that make it a great place for a relaxing weekend getaway.

Where to stay in Paris

For a trendy place to stay in Paris, be sure to check out the 1st Street Lofts on Airbnb, the single bedroom lofts are beautifully decorated in an art deco style. For more options, there are a variety of hotels to choose from in Paris .

When to Visit Paris

Anytime is nice to visit Paris, Texas, but as with all of Texas, you may want to avoid the summer due to very hot temperatures.

Things to do in Paris

• Be sure to visit the iconic and humorous Eiffel Tower wearing a cowboy hat!
• Another quirky and hidden gem is the Jesus statue wearing cowboy boots in Evergreen Cemetery. It’s a unique and quick stop!
• Visit the beautiful Culbertson Fountain and take a stroll around downtown to discover the local shops and restaurants.
• For hiking nearby, take a drive out of town to Cooper Lake State Park or Bonham State Park.

Salado is a small town near Austin full of outdoor activities, wineries, history and more. There is plenty to do for a romantic weekend trip or weekend getaway with kids.

Where to stay in Salado

The Inn on the Creek is a historic hotel with beautiful Victorian architecture. It is right on the banks of the Salado Creek and includes a large porch and hammocks to relax outdoors.

When to Visit Salado

If you want to swim, visit Salado in the summer! For more mild weather, visit in the spring or fall.

Things to do in Salado

• See a glass blowing demonstration at Salado glassworks.
• Explore a unique variety of outdoor sculptures at the Salado Sculpture Park.
• Swim or hike to see beautiful waterfalls at Chalk Ridge Falls Park.
• Do a wine tasting at Salado Winery.
• Explore the businesses along the historic Royal Street District.
• See historic ruins from the 1800’s up close at the Salado College Ruins.

The Woodlands is a peaceful oasis known for its outdoor activities, great dining opportunities and stunning waterway. You can stay at a resort, challenge yourself in a treetop ropes course, kayak around the area, and more. It feels world’s away from Dallas in this tranquil planned community!

Where to Stay in The Woodlands

It’s worth a splurge to stay at The Woodlands Resort ! This gigantic property includes a golf course, a huge pool with a lazy river, multiple restaurants, bike rental and more. It’s the perfect place for families and couples alike.

When to Visit The Woodlands

You can’t go wrong with visiting The Woodlands year round. Like most of Texas, it gets very hot in the summer, but you can cool off in the resort lazy river or kayaking out on the water. The Woodlands has mild winters and beautiful weather in the Spring and Fall.

Things To Do in The Woodlands

• Try out the Texas TreeVentures Rope Course and navigate through various challenges while safely in a harness.
• Kayak on Lake Woodlands or on The Waterway.
• Take a walk along the Waterway and admire all of the various art benches.
• Hike in George Mitchell Nature Preserve.
• Enjoy the live music happening nightly around the city.

College Station is most known as the home of Texas A&M University, but has more to offer with nearby wineries and great restaurants. Stay at a unique lodge outside of town and explore the surrounding countryside a bit in addition to the city.

College Station is a great trip for the sport’s fan in your family!

Where to stay in College Station

7f Lodge has themed cabins inspired by world travel. You can stay in the Mexico cabin, the France cabin or even a cabin decked out for Texas A&M sport fans. So much detail and care has gone into the lodge and this makes for a truly unique and special stay.

When to Visit College Station

Anytime of year is nice to visit College Station. If you are interested in a Texas A&M football game, visit during the fall.

Things To Do in College Station

• Enjoy a winery outside of town at Messina Hof Winery or Peach Creek Vineyards.
• Visit Knox Wine Bar to have a drink inside of an art gallery.
• Enjoy local brews at the casual Blackwater Draw Brewing Company.
• Explore the university grounds or catch a football game at Texas A&M.
• Go hiking nearby at Somerville State Park, about 40 minutes outside of town.

Caddo Lake is on the border of Louisiana and Texas and is full of cypress trees with spanish moss. The lake is eerie and mysterious and perfect for exploring by boat. This whole area feels like nowhere else in Texas and is a must-visit spot only 3 hours from the DFW area.

Caddo Lake is one of most unique places in Texas and should be on everyone’s Texas nature bucket list .

Where to Stay in Caddo Lake

Stay in a cute bed and breakfast in Jefferson or find a cabin near Uncertain, Texas .

When to Visit Caddo Lake

Visit during the spring and fall for the best weather at Caddo Lake. You’ll see more greenery in the Spring, while the trees will be more of a reddish color in the fall.

Things To Do in Caddo Lake

• Gaze upon or kayak in Mill Pond at Caddo Lake State Park.
• Take a boat tour of the lake leaving from Uncertain, Texas. The guides know the lake well and can teach you about the wildlife.
• Explore the boutiques and restaurants in the town of Jefferson, which is full of antique shops and historic charm.

Broken Bow, Oklahoma is a wonderful getaway from DFW, known for a massive lake, cozy cabins and a variety of outdoor activities. This area has something for everyone and is great for kids and couples alike.

Where to stay in Broken Bow

There are many cute cabins in Broken Bow, I recommend searching for your perfect cabin on Airbnb .

When to Visit Broken Bow

If you plan on water recreation, summer is a great time to visit! Visiting in the fall is also a great time for fall foliage.

Things to do in Broken Bow

• Try your hand at kayaking over Class 2+ rapids on the Mountain Fork River. A variety of river outfitters are available for kayak rental and transportation up the river.
• Enjoy the hiking trails of Beavers Bend State Park. The Friends Loop trail is 1.5 miles and offers beautiful river views.
• Enjoy the wineries, breweries and restaurants in downtown Broken Bow. Options include Mountain Fork Brewery, Beavers Bend Brewery and Girls Gone Wine.
• Go kayaking, paddle boarding or swimming on Broken Bow Lake.
• Rent a jeep or ATV from Captains Hideaways and explore the off-roading trails in Ouachita National Forest.
• Go ziplining at Rugaru Adventures.

Austin, Texas is the capital city of Texas and has so much to offer! There is a great music scene, amazing food, outdoor activities and so much more. It’s a great city for a trip with friends and for anyone looking for a lively and fun city.

Austin is an amazing destination for a weekend girl’s trip from Dallas!

Where to stay in Austin

There are so many hotel options in Austin, but I recommend checking out The Driskell , the Austin Motel or Hotel San Jose for unique stays.

When to Visit Austin

Visit during the spring or fall for more mild and beautiful weather. If you love live music, consider visiting for the ACL music festival in early October.

Things to do in Austin

• Go swimming in the iconic Barton Springs.
• Go Paddle boarding or kayaking on Lady Bird Lake.
• Enjoy an aerial viewpoint at Mount Bonnell.
• Go shopping and enjoy the restaurants and bars on South Congress.
• Try as much delicious food as you can in Austin, especially when it comes to tacos and BBQ. A few spots that I recommend are Veracruz All Natural, Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ and Loro.
• Enjoy a fun outdoor patio space, such as Easy Tiger or Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden.
• For a unique and eclectic experience, visit Cathedral of Junk! This wild structure has been built with found objects over the course of many years. Be sure to call ahead to reserve a time and bring a donation.

Oklahoma City is a vibrant city that often feels overshadowed and forgotten because of cities like Austin. However, I find it to be an underrated city full of amazing art and history. The capital of Oklahoma has a lot going on and is great for either couples or families for a fantastic weekend trip.

I found Oklahoma City to be an underrated destination! If you love exploring cities, definitely add OKC to your list.

Where to stay in Oklahoma City

I love 21C Museum Hotels and the Oklahoma City one is my favorite location so far! It is located in a former factory and you’ll get to enjoy industrial vibes and modern art on every floor. If 21C isn’t for you, there are many more hotel options in Oklahoma City .

When to Visit Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is great to visit year round! However, the fall and spring will provide the best temperatures.

Things to do in Oklahoma City

• Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, a must-visit to learn about the Oklahoma City bombing that occured in 1995.
• Explore Factory Obscura: a large, interactive art exhibit! There are several rooms that create a unique and immersive art experience, where you can search for clues, touch the art and discover unique passageways. If you have been to any of the Meow Wolf locations, this is very similar!
• Enjoy some unique and quirky Route 66 stops like the Arcadia Round Barn and Pop’s Arcadia.
• Explore Bricktown for family fun like mini golf, local brews at Bricktown Brewery and more.
• Experience the beauty of Myriad botanical gardens, a botanic garden with amazing architecture. The glass, cylindrical building houses a tropical conservatory and there is an interesting LED lightshow at night.

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers amazing hiking and wildlife viewing near DFW. The park is home to bison, prairie dogs, longhorn and other wildlife that you can easily see from your car. There are also amazing views and hiking trails for all difficulties.

Where to Stay in the Wichita Mountains

I recommend looking for a cabin that suits your needs right outside the park in Medicine Park . If they are booked up, the nearby town of Lawton-Fort Sill has several hotel options as well.

When to Visit the Wichita Mountains

Visit the Wichita Mountains in the spring or fall for the best weather!

Things To Do in the Wichita Mountains

• Enjoy the many hiking trails. I recommend The Narrows and the Forty Foot Hole trails for beautiful rock and river views.
• Visit the Quanah Parker Lake and dam.
• Look for wildlife as you drive and stop at the Prairie Dog town.
• Walk around and have a drink or snack in downtown Medicine Park.
• Drive to the top of Mount Scott for 360 views of the area.

Copper Breaks is one of the only Texas state parks to be named an international dark sky park, meaning it is amazing for stargazing! The park also has some great, short hiking trails and is a great place to relax in nature.

Where to Stay in Copper Breaks

I recommend camping inside of the park to experience the beautiful night skies! There are options for both RV camping and tent camping.

When to Visit Copper Breaks

Visit Copper Breaks during the spring or fall for the best weather.

Things To Do in Copper Breaks

• Admire the night skies when it gets dark.
• Hike the Juniper Ridge Trail and the Rocky Ledges trails.
• Bring a mountain bike and explore the biking trails.
• Participate in a guided ranger program.

Colorado Bend State Park is an amazing hiking and camping destination located in the northern part of Texas Hill Country. The park is most known for Gorman Falls, an impressive 70 foot waterfall, but is also an amazing place to swim in the summer months.

Where to stay at Colorado Bend

You can either camp inside the park or find a campsite or cabin nearby. The closest cabins to the park are located right outside the park at Bend General Store.

When to Visit Colorado Bend

Colorado Bend is great to visit in the summer if you plan on swimming! If you can’t stand high heat, visit during the spring or fall.

Things to do at Colorado Bend

• Hike the 3 mile moderate trail to see Gorman Falls.
• Hike the Spicewood Springs trail and go swimming in one of the picturesque swimming holes.
• Discover the other 30 miles of hike and bike trails that the park has to offer.
• Kayak in the Colorado River.
• Go on a wild caving tour (currently closed due to Covid-19).

Houston is one of the biggest cities in Texas and has so much to offer! It is most known for its NASA Space Center and ties to the oil industry, but is also full of many cultural institutions and unique activities.

Where to stay in Houston

I recommend finding a centrally located hotel to suit your needs in Houston. Hotel Ylem and the adult-only Houston Towers Inn are mid-range options with unique decor and architecture.

When to Visit Houston

Houston is a nice winter destination because there are several great holiday activities around the city! If you can’t stand high temperatures, avoid the summer.

Things to do in Houston

• The Museum of Fine Arts has a beautiful collection of art spanning across 1000’s of years.
• Visit the Houston Space Center to learn all about the history of NASA space exploration. There are many immersive exhibits offered and you can get a behind the scenes look at locations like mission control on the tram tour.
• One unique Houston destination is the Art Car Museum, a museum focused on imaginative and elaborately constructed art cars.
• The Orange Show is an eclectic outdoor folk-art experience that features a pond, a stage, a museum and more made up of found objects.
• Essentially a branch of the Orange Show, the Beer can house is also worth visiting. It is a home made up of 50,000 recycled beer cans! Tours are available to learn about the unique attraction.
• Visit Discovery Green, an urban park that holds events and has something to offer for the whole family.

Buchanan Lake is a Texas Hill Country lake that is the perfect gateway to a variety of natural spots in the area. Explore the lake, hike in nearby Inks Lake or venture underground for a tour of Longhorn Caverns. This area has a great variety for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Where to stay at Buchanan Lake

The Painted Sky Inn is a beautiful place to stay right on the banks of Buchanan Lake. They offer cozy cabins and are the perfect place to watch the sunset each night.

When to Visit Buchanan Lake

Visit in the spring or the fall for the best temperatures. If you visit in the summertime, plan to go swimming!

Things to do at Buchanan Lake

• Go hiking and swimming at Inks Lake , a gorgeous Texas State Park. I recommend the Valley Spring Creek Trail, the Devil’s Backbone Nature Trail and the Pecan Flats Trail.
• Take a cave tour at Longhorn Caverns State Park , an impressive cave with a unique history just a few minutes away from Inks Lake.
• Have a drink at Torr Na Lochs Vineyard, a winery with an amazing view of Buchanan Lake.
• Take a Vanishing Texas River Cruise on Lake Buchanan and see birds, waterfalls and cliffs around the lake.

Weekend Trips Under 5 Hours from Dallas

New Braunfels is a fun Texas Hill Country town where visitors come to float the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, visit the Schlitterbahn Waterpark and enjoy the charming ambiance of historic Gruene.

Where to stay in New Braunfels

For the riverfront views, check out the Gruene River Inn or the Gruene River Hotel and Retreat . You can also find a variety of other hotels in New Braunfels to fit your needs.

When to Visit New Braunfels

There are many water activities in New Braunfels, so visit in the summertime to enjoy the refreshing rivers!

Things to do in New Braunfels

• For family fun, visit the Schlitterbahn Waterpark, which is full of waterslides ranging from thrilling to relaxing.
• Enjoy a classic Texas Hill Country activity: river tubing! Many outfitters offer tube rentals and transportation shuttles for the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers.
• Visit Natural Bridge Caverns, where you can explore an incredible cave via a guided walking tour or by crawling through narrow caverns in a wild cave tour.
• Explore the shops and restaurants in Gruene, a charming and historic area. After some shopping, catch some live music at Gruene Hall, which is the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas.

Quartz Mountain State Park is an Oklahoma park not far from the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. The park is known for hiking trails, rock climbing and water recreation.

Where to stay in Quartz Mountain

Stay right in the park at the Quartz Mountain Lodge or find a hotel that suits your needs in Altus .

When to Visit Quartz Mountain

Quartz Mountain is great to visit in the spring or fall for more mild weather.

Things to do at Quartz Mountain

• Explore the various hiking trails in the park, such as the Baldy Point trail, Cedar Valley trail and New Horizon trail.
• Explore via ATV in the 50-acre area for four wheelers open in the summer.
• Visit Quartz Mountain Fun Park for old-school amusement right outside of the park.
• Bring your mountain bike and explore the biking trails.

Dripping Springs is a small Texas Hill Country town in close proximity to beautiful natural locations along with wineries and distilleries. It is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing accommodation as a base and do some hill country exploring.

Where to stay in Dripping Springs

Havenwald is a cabin that feels straight out of a storybook, complete with stained glass windows and medieval touches. The property also has a Victorian cottage and is even building a castle!

When to Visit Dripping Springs

The spring and fall will offer the best weather, but really anytime of year is good for this area.

Things to do in Dripping Springs

• Do an olive oil tasting and tour the grounds at the impressive Texas Hill Country Olive Co.
• Shop, eat and drink in downtown Dripping Springs.
• Visit the nearby natural wonders of Hamilton Pool Preserve and Westcave.
• Hike and swim at nearby Pedernales Falls State Park.
• Enjoy sour beer and pizza on a farm at Jester King Brewery.

Mena, Arkansas is a small town surrounded by trails and natural beauty. The town has antique shops and is a charming place to visit and perfect to use as a base for exploring the nearby national forests and state parks.

Where to stay in Mena

Stay in town at the Sassafras Inn or Janssen Park Place B&B or find a cabin in the surrounding areas.

When to visit Mena

Visit during the autumn months to see beautiful fall foliage!

Things to do in Mena

• Drive the Talimena Scenic Drive for amazing views and colorful trees in the fall.
• Explore the many hiking trails Ouachita National Forest.
• Explore nearby Queen Wilhelmina State Park, a park with amazing views.

Wimberley is a Texas Hill Country town with some of the best swimming holes in Texas. Wimberley also offers glamping, a vibrant downtown and hiking trails with great views.

Where to stay in Wimberley

I stayed in a Basecamp airstream Airbnb and absolutely loved it! Wimberley is an amazing place for glamping and enjoying the outdoors.

When to visit Wimberley

If you want to get the most out of the Wimberley swimming, visit in the summer or in late spring/early fall!

Things to do in Wimberley

• Jump into a fully-submerged cave at Jacob’s Well! Be sure to make a reservation in advance.
• Swim at the Blue Hole Regional Park, a swimming hole known for clear blue water surrounded by cypress trees.
• Explore the many shops and restaurants in downtown Wimberley.
• Visit some of the nearby Hill Country breweries and wineries. Check out Shady Llama for the chance to see llamas while enjoying a local brew!
• Hike to the top of Old Baldy for great views of the surrounding area.

Fredericksburg is one of the most iconic and popular Texas Hill Country towns, known for its German heritage and as a huge winery destination.

Fredericksburg is great for either a romantic trip or a girl’s trip!

Where to stay in Fredericksburg

Stay in a unique retro trailer just north of town at Blue Skies Retro Resort or stay in a bed & breakfast in town .

When to visit Fredericksburg

Visit in April to see the famous Texas bluebonnets! (but expect crowds)

Things to do in Fredericksburg

• Take a winery tour along Highway 290! There are so many wineries, but some of my favorites include Signor Vineyards and Becker Vineyards.
• Hike to the summit of Enchanted Rock for amazing Hill Country views . Be sure to reserve a time slot in advance.
• Explore the many shops, restaurants and wineries on Main Street.
• Enjoy peach jam next to a pond full of lily pads at Das Peach Haus.
• Explore the nation’s largest working wildflower farm at Wildseed Farms.

Hot Springs, Arkansas is a unique town with a storied history, thermal hot springs and hiking trails. It is also home to Hot Springs National Park, the closest US National Park to Dallas! Spend a weekend exploring Bathhouse Row and enjoying everything the area has to offer.

Where to stay in Hot Springs

For a historic and centrally located hotel, look at The Waters Hot Springs , a neoclassical building within walking distance of the national park. For an extra unique stay, check out the Hot Springs Treehouses outside of town.

When To Visit Hot Springs

Visit during the fall to see fall foliage! Otherwise, anytime of year is nice for visiting Hot Springs.

Things to do in Hot Springs

• Admire and explore the various bathhouses on the bathhouse row. Be sure to check out the national park visitor center and Superior Bathhouse Brewery.
• Take a walk along the Grand Promenade and read the various plaques about the city’s history.
• Hike some of the many trails in the national park and take in the views at the Hot Springs Mountain Tower.
• Wander around Garvan Woodland Gardens and be sure to visit the Anthony Chapel and the Bob and Sunny Evans Tree House.
• Enjoy a traditional bathhouse spa treatment at Buckstaff or Quapaw Bathhouse.

While Hot Springs National Park is much different than most of the other US National Parks, it is the closest national park to Dallas! It is also the only US national park with a brewery inside of it.

San Antonio is the most visited city in Texas for good reason! With attractions like the riverwalk and the Alamo, there is something to do for everyone in this Texas Hill Country city. San Antonio is full of culture, delicious food and so much history.

Where to stay in San Antonio

There are many hotel and accommodation options in San Antonio . I recommend finding something centrally located and it’s a bonus if you can stay on the Riverwalk!

When to Visit San Antonio

San Antonio is beautiful around the holidays, when you can see the Riverwalk decked out in lights. Besides that, you’ll have the best weather in the spring and the fall.

Things to do in San Antonio

• Walk along the San Antonio Downtown Riverwalk or take a boat ride to see the surrounding shops and restaurants from the water!
• The Alamo is an iconic place to visit if you’re interested in Texas history. The site is free to visit with a timed entry ticket reserved in advance.
• While most people only go to the Alamo, I personally love visiting the other San Antonio Missions as well! There are four more missions that make up the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. They are all unique with beautiful architecture and accessible via bike or by car.
• The San Antonio Japanese garden is free and quite impressive! It is a beautiful place for photography and full of waterfalls, bridges and exotic plants.
• The Pearl Brewery District is a vibrant area with a variety of restaurants and shops. On the weekends, you can visit a farmer’s market and sit on the lawn to enjoy your food!

Beaumont is a southeast Texas town that grew as a result of striking oil in the early 1900’s. Today, the city is full of art and culture and has several great natural areas to explore nearby.

Where to stay in Beaumont

There are several hotels in Beaumont, but I recommend the Holiday Inn Beaumont Plaza for a beautiful stay with great value.

When to visit Beaumont

Visit Beaumont in the fall or spring to avoid the high heat in the summer months.

Things to do in Beaumont

• Go kayaking and hiking in the nearby Big Thicket National Preserve.
• Visit nearby Texas state parks such as Sea Rim and Village Creek.
• Search for alligators from the boardwalks at Cattail Marsh Wetlands.
• Take in the beauty of the Shangri La Botanical Gardens.
• Stroll through the Antique Stores and other shops on Calder Avenue and look for murals in downtown Beaumont.

Galveston is an island located south of Houston with beaches, a quaint downtown and great nightlife. It makes for a fun vacation destination and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy views of the ocean.

Galveston is a great family-friendly destination to take your kids!

Where to stay in Galveston

There are a variety of hotels and bed and breakfasts around the island. Grand Galvez is one unique option if you’re interested in staying somewhere haunted!

When to visit Galveston

Like most places on this list, you’ll experience the best weather in the spring and the fall. Keep in mind that the most likely time to experience a tropical storm is in August and September, so you may want to avoid those months.

Things to do in Galveston

• Spend some time on historic Pleasure Pier, which is home to fun roller coasters and carnival games for the whole family.
• Explore the downtown area known as The Strand. I recommend stopping at MOD for coffee, La King’s Confectionery for ice cream or candy and getting a psychic reading done at The Witchery.
• Explore an aquarium or a rainforest inside of giant glass pyramids at Moody Gardens.
• Go paddling or hiking in Galveston Island State Park. (Be sure to bring bug spray!)

Tulsa is an Oklahoma city known for its art deco architecture, outdoor culture and great urban areas. The city is also a stop on Route 66 and a center for the oil industry.

Where to Stay in Tulsa

There are many hotels in Tulsa, but one unique spot I recommend is the Cedar Rock Inn for a bed and breakfast in an 1890 home.

When to Visit Tulsa

You’ll experience the best weather in Tulsa in the spring and the fall.

Things to do in Tulsa

• Enjoy art at the Gilcrease Museum and the Philbrook Museum of Art.
• Visit the Gathering Place, a park full of trails for both hiking and biking.
• Shop in a shipping container development at The Boxyard.
• Visit the unique Route 66 attraction, the Blue Whale of Catoosa, outside of town.

Weekend Trips Under 7 Hours from Dallas

Caprock Canyons is a West Texas state park that is home to bison, prairie dogs and amazing hiking. The park has a remote feeling, amazing red-rock views and is a great destination for camping and backpacking.

Caprock Canyons is a great location for a beginner backpack trip - I did my first backpacking trip here and camped at the North Prong hike out campsite.

Where to Stay in Caprock Canyons

There are few accommodation options around the park, I recommend camping inside the park to get the full experience!

When to Visit Caprock Canyons

For the best temperatures, visit Caprock Canyon in the fall or spring.

Things to do in Caprock Canyons

• See the best views of the canyon from the Upper North Prong trail.
• Explore a unique cave on the Eagle Point trail.
• Take a scenic drive and look for bison and prairie dogs.
• Bring a bike to explore the nearby Caprock Canyons trailway.

Boerne is a Texas Hill Country town with a nice downtown area full of local shops and restaurants. There are also some great hiking spots and places to enjoy water activities nearby.

Where to Stay in Boerne

The Kendall is a historic hotel located in the heart of downtown Boerne. They offer several different rooms, including an old school house building!

When to visit Boerne

If you are interested in floating in the nearby Guadalupe River, summertime is a great time to visit Boerne! If you don’t like the heat, visit in the spring or fall.

Things To Do in Boerne

• Go hiking in the nearby Guadalupe River State Park .
• Go shopping on Main Street in downtown Boerne.
• Take a stroll in Cibolo Nature Center and Farm.
• Explore the Cave Without A Name.

Take a road trip to three very unique Oklahoma state parks, Gloss Mountain, Little Sahara and the Salt Plains! The Gloss Mountains are a small mountain range whose minerals mimic a shiny glass surface, Little Sahara is a 1,600-acre park full of sand dunes and the Salt Plains feature a saltwater lake and plains of salt.

Where to stay in Northern Oklahoma

Either camp in one of the parks or stay in a hotel in the nearby town of Alva .

When to Visit in Northern Oklahoma

Visit between April and October to dig for crystals in Great Salt Plains, but you may want to avoid this area during the highest heats of summer.

Things To Do in Northern Oklahoma

• Swim in the Great Salt Plains Lake, which has half the amount of salt as the ocean.
• Dig for crystals at Great Salt Plains State Park.
• Hike the Cathedral Mountain trail in Gloss Mountain State Park.
• Rent an ATV to explore the sand dunes at Little Sahara State Park.

Little Rock is the capital city of Arkansas and has some interesting historic sites, a vibrant river market and wonderful people.

Where to Stay in Little Rock

Explore the hotel options downtown to find one that meets your needs.

When to Visit Little Rock

Little Rock is nice all year round, but you’ll have the best temperatures in the spring and fall.

Things To Do in Little Rock

• Hike to the top of Pinnacle Mountain right outside of town.
• Visit the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum.
• Visit the North Central High School, an important landmark in the civil-rights movement.
• Eat your way through the Little Rock River Market.
• See the picturesque Old Mill, a water mill featured in the movie “Gone With The Wind.”

Amarillo is a fun city located on historic Route 66 that happens to be next to the second largest canyon in the United States! This area has so much to offer, whether you are interested in quirky roadside attractions or hiking among beautiful scenery.

Where to stay in Amarillo

For a unique experience, Palo Duro State Park offers glamping tents on the floor of the canyon! They also have campsites and cabins. If you would rather stay in Amarillo, there are several hotels with a range of prices and amenities .

When to Visit Amarillo

If you want to catch the Texas Outdoor Musical in Palo Duro, visit during the summer. For milder weather, Palo Duro is great to visit in the spring and fall.

Things to do in Amarillo

• Spray paint a car at the famous Cadillac Ranch.
• Explore the many hiking trails in Palo Duro Canyon . Hiking to Lighthouse Rock is a must!
• Get a refresher on Texas history at the Texas Outdoor Musical.
• Go antique shopping on historic route 66.

Fayetteville, Arkansas is a college town with a lot to do, from boutique shopping, to fun nightlife to outdoor activities nearby. There is something for everyone in this fun, Arkansas town.

Where to Stay in Fayetteville

For a unique hotel experience, stay in the Graduate Fayetteville , a short walk away from the University of Arkansas.

When to Visit Fayetteville

You will enjoy the best weather in Fayetteville in either the spring or the fall.

Things To Do in Fayetteville

• Enjoy the natural beauty at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks.
• Go hiking at nearby Devil’s Den State Park.
• Visit one of the many breweries in town, like Fossil Cove Brewing or Bike Rack Brewing.
• If you’re interested in aviation, visit the Arkansas Air & Military Museum.

Bentonville is a city in the Northwest corner of Arkansas known for being a mountain biking destination, having a world class art scene and being the birthplace of Walmart. The city has an amazing mix of both art and outdoor activities, and is great to visit for couples and families alike.

Where to Stay in Bentonville

Bentonville is home to one of the 21C Museum Hotel locations , meaning you can stay in a modern art museum! Enjoy the art on the ground level and a spacious and comfortable room upstairs.

When to Visit Bentonville

Bentonville is nice to visit year round, but visit in the spring or fall for the best weather.

Things to do in Bentonville

• Go mountain biking at one of the many trails around town. I recommend renting bikes from Spoke Adventures and exploring the Slaughter Pen trail system.
• Visit the many breweries around town, such as Bike Rack Brewing and New Province Brewing.
• See the amazing, free art at Crystal Bridges and The Momentary.

Mount Magazine is an Arkansas state park that is home to the highest point in the state. The park offers incredible views of the surrounding valleys and has several overlooks and hiking trails to enjoy. For more views nearby, Mount Nebo is another state park with amazing views and great trails.

Where To Stay in Mount Magazine

Mount Magazine Lodge is a beautiful building built in the “parkitecture” architecture. The rooms have large balconies where you can enjoy the view directly from your room.

When to visit Mount Magazine

Visit Mount Magazine in the fall for gorgeous fall foliage and cooler weather.

Things to do in Mount Magazine

• Hike to the tallest point in Arkansas, but do not expect a view here!
• Drive to all of the various overlooks in the park.
• Catch the sunset from the Mount Magazine Lodge.
• Hike the easy North Rim trail in Mount Magazine.
• Visit nearby Mount Nebo and hike the rim trail.

Garner is an incredible Texas Hill Country State Park known for caves, amazing views and the picturesque and refreshing Frio River.

Where To Stay at Garner

Either camp inside the park or stay at the Inn Between just outside the park. The Inn Between has eclectic and colorful cabins full of art and personal touches.

When to visit Garner

Visit during the summer if you plan to float the Frio River and want to feel refreshed, or visit in the fall to see some beautiful foliage.

Things To Do in Garner

• Hike to the top of Mt Old Baldy via a half mile strenuous trail.
• Climb down into a cave at Crystal Cave.
• Float in the Frio River.

Petit Jean was the first state park established in Arkansas and full of incredible beauty. See the impressive Cedar Falls, hike to natural bridges and caves and enjoy the many viewpoints around the park.

Where to Stay in Petit Jean

Stay at the cozy lodge inside of Petit Jean or camp inside the park.

When to Visit Petit Jean

Visit Petit Jean in the fall to see beautiful fall foliage. It is also great to visit in the spring and summer.

Things to do in Petit Jean

• Hike down to the base of 95-foot high Cedar Falls or see it from above a short walk from the parking lot.
• Hike the Seven Hollow trails, the Bear Cave trail and the Rock House trail.
• Visit the many viewpoints overlooking the valley, such as Stouts Overlook and the overlooks on Red Bluffs road.
• Visit Petit Jean Coffeehouse right outside the park.

Eureka Springs is a unique Arkansas town known for its historic Victorian architecture and natural springs. The waters were thought to have healing properties in the 1800’s and the town quickly rose in popularity as a resort town. Today, the town is a great destination for architecture, shopping and outdoor activities nearby.

Where to stay in Eureka Springs

For a unique and peaceful experience, check out Iris Hill Glamping right outside of town. If you want to be within walking distance of everything, there are several hotels and bed & breakfasts in town .

When to visit Eureka Springs

Eureka Springs is a beautiful destination for seeing colorful foliage in the fall.

Things to do in Eureka Springs

• Explore the many shops and restaurants in downtown Eureka Springs. I recommend Mud Street Cafe and the Balcony Restaurant & Bar in the Basin Park Hotel.
• Visit the gorgeous glass church Thorncrown Chapel.
• See some unique rock formations at Pivot Rock and Natural Bridge.
• If you’re interested in the paranormal, take a ghost tour at the Crescent Hotel.
• Visit the strange and fascinating Quigley’s Castle, a home where fossils, arrowheads, crystals and more adorn the outside walls.

Buffalo National River

Buffalo National River is an area of Arkansas with amazing hiking trails with scenic views, amazing hiking trails and is even home to elk!

Where to Stay at Buffalo National River

Stay at Cliff House Inn or Overlook Bed & Breakfast for amazing views! This area is also great for camping.

When to visit Buffalo National River

Visit in the spring if you are interested in paddling on the Upper Buffalo River!

Things to do at Buffalo National River

• Look for elk in the Boxley Valley Historic District. You are most likely to see them at sunrise and sunset!
• Hike the many trails in the area. I recommend the Centerpoint to Goat trail and the Lost Valley trail.
• Take in the views at the Grand Canyon of Arkansas.
• Go kayaking on the Buffalo River.

As you can see, there is no shortage of amazing day trips from Dallas, Texas! Whether you are looking to cool off in a Hill Country River, hiking in the Arkansas wilderness or explore an underrated Oklahoma city, there is something for everyone without needing to hop on a plane.

If you are also interested in taking a day trip from Dallas , I have another blog post that includes several more locations with shorter drive times!

Happy planning and feel free to reach out if you have questions!

35 of the Best Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

A Four Day Itinerary of Dallas, Texas

Things To Do in Bentonville, Arkansas

The Perfect Two Day Oklahoma City Itinerary

The Perfect Fredericksburg Weekend Itinerary

The Best Hikes in Texas Hill Country

Thanks for Reading!

Save to Pinterest!

The Perfect Channel Islands Itinerary: 2 Days on Santa Cruz

The Best Outdoorsy Things To Do in The Woodlands, TX (+ Food!)

Let's stay in touch!

Join the Lost with Lydia email list to get monthly travel guides and tips!

You also may like

35 of the Best Day Trips from Dallas, Texas in 2024

40+ Things To Do in Texas Hill Country: Hiking, Small Towns & More

• North Texas
• South Texas
• San Antonio
• Cities And Towns
• Eating And Drinking
• Outdoor Adventures
• Things To Do
• Weekend Getaways
• Where To Stay
• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Texas Travel 365

15 Interesting Weekend Getaways From Dallas

August 29, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365

Texas is a big state, but that means there are also so many great weekend getaways from Dallas! Depending on the direction you travel, just a few hours in the car can take you from hill country to casinos, so you’ll want to see which cities and activities we’ve rounded up as perfect weekend getaways from Dallas.

Some of the best weekend getaways from Dallas are less than 2 hours away. Some of them can even be day trips from Dallas if you don’t want to commit a whole weekend! Depending on your reason for wanting to escape the city for a few days, you can find the perfect relaxing or romantic, or exciting, or family-fun vacation!

There is so much culture and history to explore within and nearby Texas that you won’t have to look far to find one of the ideal weekend getaways from Dallas for you.

Dripping Springs

If you want to spend some time between Austin and Texas Hill Country, you’ll want to visit Dripping Springs. Because of its location, it has the perfect blend of Austin’s live music and Texas Hill Country’s scenic views. With a vibe, all its own Dripping Springs is one of the most unique weekend trips from Dallas.

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a must-visit day trip from Austin. The Preserve is a waterfall that tumbles over the edge of a cave and into a beautiful swimming hole. While the swimming hole is temporarily closed, you can still hike down and enjoy this natural wonder. This popular pool requires a reservation (which is great so that it won’t be overcrowded), and reservations fill quickly.

If you’re looking for live entertainment, Mercer Street needs to be on your itinerary. You can stop by the Mercer Street Dancehall which is just one of the 24 live music venues in the city.

Dripping Springs is about a 3.5-hour drive from Dallas, which makes this city far enough away to feel like a true getaway.

Miraval Austin

If you’re looking for one of the most relaxing weekend getaways from Dallas, you HAVE to visit Miraval Austin . We think it’s one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the USA because of its attention to wellness as a whole. While a day spa is one of the options they provide, they offer so much more!

Surrounded by the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, the peacefulness of nature adds intangible value to your stay. The Miraval Austin provides daily schedules of activities that (depending on when you plan your stay) include equine, meditation, fitness, nutrition, photography, yoga, spirit & soul, and outdoor adventure. Spa packages vary from massages, hair & nail salon, and peels, scrubs, and wraps. They also offer culinary workshops and mindful dining so visitors can improve their wellness from the inside out.

This really is an all-encompassing wellness spa that brings a whole new meaning to relaxing. You’ll be daydreaming about your visit and remember this as one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas.

Located just under 3 hours from Dallas, this definitely qualifies as a road trip, but one with a great reward at the end! Book Your Stay Here.

Due to its close location (just a city away), Fort Worth is one of the best inexpensive weekend getaways near Dallas. While it’s a large city similar to Dallas, it has a whole different scene and unique attractions you can only find in Fort Worth.

A portion of the city that’s frozen in time is the Fort Worth Stock Yards that is always a wonderful place to visit, even if you’re a Texas native. You can watch a cattle drive at either 11:30 am or 4:00 pm when cowboys in full gear herd the famous Texas longhorn down East Exchange Avenue. There are also modern cowboys at the Stockyard’s weekly rodeo.

In contrast to the wild west, you can dress up for an evening at Bass Performance Hall where touring broadway shows and beautiful concerts, ballets, and operas perform live. The exterior of the Hall with its trumpeting sculptures is housed in the third-largest cultural district in the U.S., so you’re sure to be inspired as you stop in the neighboring shops and galleries.

You can reach Fort Worth in under 40 minutes making it one of our favorite short trips from Dallas.

Not only is Galveston one of the most popular weekend getaways from Dallas, but it’s also one of the prettiest beaches in Texas. Its vast 32 miles of sandy beaches means that there’s plenty of room to accommodate the crowds without having to feel crowded. The Gulf weather is also perfect for year-round visits to this ocean town.

Depending on which of the weekend getaways from Dallas you are looking for, you can choose between relaxing or adventurous. While spending all weekend on the beach is definitely an option, you can also go birding, fishing, kayaking, or surfing.

Of course, no visit to Galveston is complete without a visit to Pleasure Pier, the amusement park that sits above the ocean water.

Galveston is about a four-hour and twenty-minute drive from Dallas, so be sure to pack lots of snacks before you hit the road but it is truly one of the best beach towns in Texas!

Shreveport, LA

This is one of the most interesting weekend getaways from Dallas because you’ll be leaving the great state of Texas and heading to Louisiana! It’s the perfect adult’s-only weekend since Shreveport and its neighbor Bossier City has a number of casinos that draw in visitors from all over the region. So be ready to place your bets and win big at night and relax during the day at your hotel’s spa.

Of course, you can’t go to Louisiana without some cajun and creole food. Orlandeaux’s Cafe is the USA’s oldest operating African-American family-owned restaurant so you know the recipes that they use have been tried and tested and perfected with each generation. There’s gumbo, po’boys, and stuffed shrimp on the menu that you can’t go wrong with by ordering.

There are also festivals that happen throughout the year, so be sure to check the city’s calendar to see if there’s one while you’re in town!

The best part is that Shreveport is surprisingly less than 3 hours away from Dallas!

Fredericksburg

German influence can be seen and felt in the Texas hill country of Fredericksburg, so if you’re looking for some must-eat traditional German cuisine, you’ll find plenty of options here! Whether it’s bakeries or breweries, Fredericksburg will leave you filled with authentic brats and beer from some of their best restaurants!

While you’re treating your tastebuds to the local eateries, be sure to walk what’s known as The Magic Mile, aka Main Street, Fredericksburg. You’ll find yourself wandering into unique stores like art galleries, through festivals, past street musicians. The walk is located between the Admiral Nimitz Museum and the Vereins Kirche Museum, so you can start and end your walk with a mix of culture and history. There are truly so many things to do in Fredericksburg!

You can’t go to Texas hill country without exploring the nature it encompasses. There are plenty of seasonal bluebonnet and poppy fields to frolic through near Fredericksburg. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a 425-foot pink granite formation that serves as a Texas mountain. Due to its popularity, reservations are required (which means you’ll really be able to feel the calmness of nature since there won’t be a big crowd). There are over 10 miles of trails to explore, hike, rock climb, and enjoy. The higher elevation also makes Enchanted Rock an ideal viewpoint for bird watchers and stargazers.

Fredericksburg is just under a 4.5-hour drive, but because of its German roots, it’s one of the most unique weekend getaways from Dallas.

Colorado Bend State Park

If you want to spend some time in the great outdoors, Colorado Bend State Park is one of the most ideal weekend getaways from Dallas for you. While Colorado Bend State Park might not be one of the National Parks found in Texas, it has all you could want in a relaxing camping weekend. Hiking, cave tours, biking, fishing, swimming, and of course camping are what await you at Colorado Bend State Park.

One of the best hikes in the Park is the hike to Gorman Falls. It’s a 3-mile hike over rocky terrain that will take you to a beautiful waterfall. Because Gorman Falls is fed by spring water, it’s surrounded by mossy rocks and spans about 650 feet. While you can’t swim in the pool at the waterfall’s base, you can swim in Spicewood Springs also located inside the Park. It is truly one of the best hidden gems in Texas!

The water activities don’t end there. If you want to cool off in the summer, you can spend time out on Lake Buchanan by boating or kayaking. Or, if you want to escape the sun altogether, you can go below ground and explore any number of the 400 caves in the Park.

Colorado Bend State Park is about three hours and fifteen minutes away from Dallas if you’re traveling via car.

Gaylord Texan Resort

Located in Grapevine, the Gaylord Texan Resort has everything you could want under its roof. From 4.5 acres of gardens to a nightclub, restaurants to shopping, the sheer vastness of the Gaylord Texan makes it one of the go-to weekend getaways from Dallas.

There are many seasonal events and features that rotate throughout the year, so you’ll want to come back to experience it all! In the summer, you can escape the Texas heat and humidity by jumping into Paradise Springs, the resort’s 10-acre outdoor waterpark. In the winter the Resort hosts ICE!, an interactive exhibit filled with Texas-sized ice sculptures.

Another plus is that it’s only a 26-minute drive from the city it one of the best quick getaways from Dallas. You can skip the road trip and instead start your vacation! Book Your Stay Here

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is another popular city that sits on the Gulf of Mexico and is a great Texas road trip destination. It also is close to Padre and Mustang Islands, so you can visit multiple beaches on a single weekend trip from Dallas. The beaches vary from pedestrian-only to vehicle-friendly so depending on how much sand you want to feel between your toes you have multiple beaches to choose from.

We recommend that you take advantage of the wind levels this city can get. It’s a windy city which makes it perfect for windsurfing, sailing, and kiteboarding.

If you can’t get enough of the beaches during the day, or if you want to be lulled to sleep by the sound of real ocean waves, you can stay on the beachfront at a condo, hotel, or RV. You’ll be the first ones in the water in the morning after waking up to one of the most memorable sunrises you’ll ever see.

Corpus Christi is about 6 hours from Dallas, so if you have the opportunity to go during a long weekend, you’ll be better able to enjoy all that the city has to offer.

Great Wolf Lodge

Part of the largest chain of indoor water park resorts in America, there’s a reason that Great Wolf Lodge is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Dallas for families. Not only does it have a four-story slide for tubing, but it also has a four-story splash treehouse that kids will love!

If your kids aren’t water lovers, they can also enjoy a ropes course, indoor mining, an arcade, and even a Great Wolf Lodge Build-A-Bear. For younger kids, there are a nightly storytime, kiddie pool, and characters (including the mascot Great Wolf).

Adults aren’t left out of the fun! There are hot springs and a spa on-site that will help parents relax. The Lodge is also close to Grapevine Mills, the largest mall in North Texas with over 180 stores (including several outlets). It’s also close to Dallas, and only 30 minutes away by car, which is a huge plus if you’re traveling with kids.

New Braunfels

With both the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers crossing through the city of New Braunfels, it’s no surprise that this city is one of the road trips from Dallas that many people travel. The steady and calm pace of the rivers perfectly reflects the same steady and calm pace of the city of New Braunfels.

Craft beer and wine lovers are drawn to New Braunfels because the city sits on both the Hill Country Craft Beer Trail and the Wine Trail. Local vineyards and brewing companies ensure that guests are treated to the best drinks they have to offer. The variety of options also makes these tasting tours a big hit with visitors.

You can attend live performances in the oldest dance hall in Texas, Gruene Hall. Yes, you’ll be encouraged to dance! Many well-known singers have performed at the dance hall including George Strait, Garth Brooks, LeAnn Rimes, and Willie Nelson.

Of course, if you visit during the summer, you’ll need to spend some time in the water. Tubing and river rafting down the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers are both popular water adventures. New Braunfels is also home to Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort and is great for families with children of all ages.

At a little over 3.5 hour drive from Dallas, New Braunfels is great to escape from the everyday bustle of life.

Who would have thought that there was a whole wild world close to Dallas? Glen Rose attracts adventurers of all ages because of the experiences you can only find in this city.

One of the crowning jewels in Glen Rose is Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, a wildlife conservation facility that also serves as a community educator. Guests can go on a self-guided safari as they drive through the property in their own cars. Food pellets for the animals are available for purchase and will encourage these animals to approach your vehicle. The facility is home to zebras, giraffes, rhinos, ostriches, antelope, and gazelles so it will feel like your very own African safari!

Accommodations at Fossil Rim include a lodge or cabins that overlook a watering hole that’s popular with animals. You never know what you will wake up to just outside your window!

If you’re looking for ancient wildlife, you’ll want to explore Dinosaur Valley State Park where you can view actual fossils and dinosaur footprints preserved in the river beds. You can also visit the Ed Young Gas Station that was built with petrified wood in honor of the dinosaur history found within the city.

Glen rose is only about an hour and twenty minutes from Dallas, making it one of the perfect and memorable weekend getaways from Dallas.

The Riverwalk

San Antonio is home to the famous Riverwalk, and by famous we mean the #1 attraction in Texas. This vacation should be at the top of your weekend getaways from Dallas bucket list because there is so much to do on the Riverwalk.

Your visit should absolutely include the riverboat tour. You’ll be able to scout out all the wonderful waterfront restaurants and shops you need to visit. There are even accommodation options along the riverfront if you want to sleep in the heart of all the action. There are also several special occasions, many of them cultural, where events are held on the actual river, so be sure to check the Riverwalk’s calendar of events!

San Antonio is also home to historical sites in Texas history like the Alamo and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. You can walk among these beautiful structures that have been carefully preserved and learn more about the role these missions played in Texas’s history.

The drive from Dallas to the Riverwalk is just over 4 hours.

If you’re looking for one of the fast-paced weekend getaways from Dallas that’s fast to get to, Arlington is the city for you! Located between Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington has a variety of entertainment options to fill your weekend with thrills and adventure.

Six Flags Over Texas and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor are staples in Arlington and draw visitors of all ages from across the country. Six Flags Over Texas is the largest theme park in the DFW Metroplex with over 45 rides and attractions. Your favorite Looney Tunes characters can be found across the park along with special performances and live shows. If you’re visiting in the summer, you can beat the heat at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor one of the largest water parks in Texas. You’ll be able to get the same thrills on the water slides and rides while keeping cool!

There’s no better place to watch the Dallas Cowboys play football than in the state-of-the-art AT&T stadium. But if you happen to visit Arlington during the off-season there are plenty of events held in the venue including soccer matches and concerts. If you prefer baseball, the Texas Rangers’ home field Globe Life Field is also located in Arlington, so see if you can catch a ball game and a foul ball the next time you’re planning one of your quick getaways from Dallas.

Arlington is about 30 minutes from Dallas, but offers a whole range of unique adventures!

Hot Springs National Park, AR

Yes, it is possible to leave the massive state of Texas for one of the most relaxing weekend trips from Dallas. Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is the perfect way to unwind after a long and stressful work week. Their world-famous mineral bath will give you 90 minutes of bliss as you undergo a full-body spa treatment.

There are several bed and breakfasts in town that will help turn your relaxation into one of the most romantic getaways near Dallas. There are also candlelit dinner options at local restaurants and dancing options at several of the music venues. You can top it all off with a carriage ride. Couple’s spa treatments and massages are also available so you can experience Hot Springs National Park together.

Hot Springs National Park is about 4.5 hours from Dallas.

Texas is a great state to explore, so there are so many options that are both near and inexpensive to explore if you’re wanting one of the most memorable weekend getaways from Dallas. If you need a break from work or just need a change of scenery, you’ll be able to find just the right amount of adventure and relaxation. You don’t need to pay for a plane ticket or deal with a stressful travel itinerary, just hop in your car and start your weekend. The best part about this list is that you’ll be ready to plan your next vacation before you’re even back from your first!

One brand, four magazines.

The ultimate travel escapes.

The ultimate resource to help you plan your next getaway from Dallas, whether you're looking for a staycation, a weekend road trip, or a weeklong escape

{{ title }}

{{ resultCount }}

Sponsored Content

{{ destination.image_credit }}

{{ formatCategories(destination.categories) }}

{{ destination.title }}

{{ destination.location }}

By {{ destination.byline }}

• Jan 29, 2023

21 Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas (within a 4-hour flight)

Updated: Jan 20

Dallas has the largest urban arts district in the USA, excellent sports teams to root for, and some great BBQ. Dallas residents are also spoiled with the 3rd largest airport in the world, DFW. If you're looking to get away from the city for a quick weekend by air or by car, you're in a great spot.

With a vast array of short domestic destinations, there are also some international destinations within reach. Here are some weekend getaway ideas for locals in the Dallas area within a non-stop 4-hour flight. More importantly, these trips are all possible without having to request PTO (for you M-F 9-5'ers), it just depends on what you want to do at your destination.

Miami, Florida (MIA, FLL) - 2 Hour 45 Minute Flight

Beaches, outdoors activities, clubs, restaurants, culture. I just ask that you please please please venture out beyond Miami Beach.

When to go?

Any time of the year, but best is October - February for perfect weather. Avoid the spring break crowd in late Feb/early March the best you can.

Who can fly you there?

AA from DFW - See flight deals

Spirit Airways from DFW - See flight deals

Southwest from DAL - See flight deals

JSX from DAL - See flight deals

How much will it cost to get there?

Airfare: $75+

Where can you stay?

See hotels in Miami

See hotels in Miami Beach

Visit the following neighborhoods to step away from the "typical Miami": Wynwood, Brickell, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Midtown, Edgewater.

Orlando, Florida (MCO) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Theme parks. Disney & Universal. Bring bug spray and an umbrella if you go during the summer.

Frontier from DFW - See flight deals

Airfare: $100+

See hotels in Orlando

New York, New York (JFK, LGA, EWR, ISP, HPN) - 3.5 Hour Flight

It might not be the same city it was a few years ago, but it'll always make for a great weekend getaway.

Summer for the best weather, but peak rates for solid hotels.

Winter for Christmas festivities!

Delta from DFW - See flight deals

United from DFW - See flight deals

JetBlue from DFW - See flight deals

Airfare: $150+

See hotels in New York

Toronto, Ontario (YYZ, YTZ) - 3 Hour Flight

Food, people, cleanliness, Hockey Hall of Fame.

Air Canada from DFW - See flight deals

Airfare: $500+

See hotels in Toronto

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PHL) - Just Over a 3 Hour Flight

History, sports, cheesesteaks

Summer and Fall

Spirit Airlines from DFW - See flight deals

See hotels in Philadelphia

Washington, DC (IAD, DCA, BWI) - Just Under a 3 Hour Flight

Museums, walking tours, great mass-transit and cherry blossoms. Fly to DCA for convenience.

Year-round (spring season for cherry blossoms)

Airfare: $175+

See hotels in Washington DC

For avid runners, pack your running shoes and go for daily runs around the White House, Washington Monument, Lincoln and Jefferson memorials.

Chicago, Illinois (ORD, MDW) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Food, bars, sports, rivers!

See hotels in Chicago

For bourbon enthusiasts, visit Untitled Supper Club on W Kinzie for an incredible speakeasy experience.

Kansas City, Missouri (MCI) - 1.5 Hour Flight

BBQ! BBQ! BBQ!

Airfare: $250+

See hotels in Kansas City

Visit the Power & Light District for a unique nightlife experience & go to Arthur Bryant's for BBQ.

Nashville, Tennessee (BNA) - 2 Hour Flight

Music (not just country), endless bars, brewpubs, hot chicken.

Spring, Summer and Fall

United from IAH - See flight deals

Southwest from IAH, HOU - See flight deals

Airfare: $200+

See hotels in Nashville

Stay in the Gulch or near printer's alley.

New Orleans, Louisiana (MSY) - 1.5 Hour Flight

Jazz music, other music, culture, architecture, partying, passionate football fans.

Spring, Summer, Fall

See hotels in New Orleans

Check out Bourbon Street for a little bit, but don't get sucked in. It's absolutely disgusting. Chartres Street is better for those looking to maintain their cleanliness.

Atlanta, Georgia (ATL) - 2 Hour Flight

Brew pubs, art, nightlife, Mexican food.

See hotels in Atlanta

Walk some of the BeltLine and stop at stores, bars, and restaurants.

Raleigh, North Carolina (RDU) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Outdoors activities, restaurants, college sports, booming tech sector.

Airfare: $350+

See hotels in Raleigh

San Diego, California (SAN) - 3 Hour Flight

Surfing, Hiking, Zoo, Mountain Biking, Partying.

See hotels in San Diego

Los Angeles, California (LAX, BUR, SNA, LGB, SBA, ONT) - 3.5 Hour Flight

Surfing, Hiking, Sports, City Life, Culture, Fame, Disneyland, Food.

See hotels in Los Angeles

Austin, Texas (AUS) - 1 Hour Flight or 3 Hour Drive

Food, Art, Music, BBQ, Tech, Bach Parties, and All-Around Fun!

See hotels in Austin

Cancun, Mexico (CUN) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Your money goes a long way: all-inclusive hotels, nightlife, and activities.

December to April for the best weather.

Avoid March Spring Break travel if you want to be at peace.

See hotels in Cancun

Boston, Massachusetts (BOS) - 3.5 Hour Flight

History and cool summertime temps!

Intercontinental Boston

See hotels in Boston

Las Vegas, Nevada (LAS) - 3 Hour Flight

Gambling, Hoover Dam, Death Valley National Park, Valley of Fire State Park, Partying, more Gambling.

JSX from DFW - See flight deals

Sun Country Airlines from DFW - See flight deals

See hotels in Las Vegas

Denver, Colorado (DEN) - 2 Hour Flight

Mountains, beer, National Parks, hiking, clean city, nice people.

Year-round. Ski in the winter. Hike in the summer.

Airfare: $125+

See hotels in Denver

Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC) - 3 Hour Flight

Skiing, Salt Flats, Mormons, and great National Parks within a moderate drive.

Airfare: $275+

See hotels in Salt Lake City

Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) - 2.5 Hour Flight

History, culture, family-friendly attractions, and watersports.

Airfare: $450+

See hotels in Charleston

Bozeman, Montana (BZN) - 3 Hour Flight

Skiing, Hiking, Waterfalls, Museums, Rivers, and of course Yellowstone National Park (1.5-hour drive). It's possible to do the park in one day from Bozeman, but if going to the park is your goal, I'd recommend staying closer to the park in West Yellowstone.

See hotels in Bozeman

See hotels in West Yellowstone

• Best Weekend Getaways
• Tips and Advice
• North America

Recent Posts

25 Best Weekend Getaways from Miami (Within a 3 Hour Flight)

23 Best Weekend Getaways from Houston (within a 4-hour flight)

23 Best Weekend Getaways from Austin (within a 4-hour flight)

14 Weekend Getaways from Dallas, Texas

Living in Texas can be exhilarating, and Dallas certainly offers its fair share of entertainment. But if you’re looking for an escape from city life, there are plenty of great opportunities just a short drive away to explore some of the Lone Star state’s most beautiful landscapes. From rolling hills and stunning waterscapes to hidden gems splattered across vast plains, get inspired by this round-up of weekend trips right around Dallas that will help you relax or reconnect with nature.

Whether it’s a spontaneous road trip or an overdue adventure with friends, there is something for everyone who is eager to explore more outside the big city!

Table of Contents

Weekend Getaways Less than 2.5 hours from Dallas

Weatherford – 57 minutes, 61 miles.

Weatherford

Just an hour west of Dallas lies Weatherford, Texas. This charming town offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including fishing, camping, and hiking. The town also boasts several historic sites like the Parker County Courthouse and the Texas & Pacific Railway Depot Museum. We recommend staying at Fuller’s Folly Ranch.

Glen Rose – 1 hour 15 minutes, 76 miles

A short drive southwest from Dallas will bring you to Glen Rose, Texas where you can explore Dinosaur Valley State Park or Fossil Rim Wildlife Center! Both offer unique opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats as well as educational programs about conservation efforts in the area. You can also visit the nearby Comanche Peak Wilderness Area for some incredible views of Dinosaur Valley State Park from above!

Waco – 1 hour 19 minutes, 94 miles

Waco is located two hours south of Dallas and is home to Baylor University as well as a number of other attractions like Cameron Park Zoo and Magnolia Market at the Silos. Take a stroll through downtown Waco or visit one of its many museums like the Mayborn Museum Complex or Dr Pepper Museum & Free Enterprise Institute. For those looking for some outdoor fun, Waco is also home to Lake Waco where you can go boating or swimming in the summer months!

Caddo Lake State Park – 2 hours 23 minutes, 167 miles

Caddo Lake State Park is located about 2.5 hours away from Dallas but it’s worth making the trip if you’re looking for a peaceful escape into nature. Here visitors will find picturesque cypress trees draped in Spanish moss along with winding bayous that are perfect spots to canoe or kayak.

The lake itself is full of wildlife such as alligators so keep your eyes peeled! In addition to all this natural beauty, there are also plenty of opportunities for camping fishing swimming boating picnicking bird watching photography hiking biking horseback riding geocaching stargazing, and more!

Weekend Getaways 3 hours from Dallas

Broken bow – 2 hours 46 minutes, 182 miles.

Just three hours from Dallas lies Broken Bow – known for being one of Oklahoma’s most popular tourist destinations due to its proximity to Beavers Bend State Park and Hochatown State Park which are both great spots for camping, fishing, kayaking, horseback riding or simply enjoying nature at its finest! Plus don’t forget about Broken Bow Lake which offers breathtaking views year-round making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts too!

Austin, Texas – 3 hours, 196 miles

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Dallas that’s close by and full of fun, then Austin is the perfect choice. This vibrant city offers something for everyone, from live music venues to outdoor activities like kayaking on Lady Bird Lake. There’s also plenty of delicious food to sample, as well as some of the best shopping in Texas. Plus, it’s only about a 3 to 3.5-hour drive from Dallas! Here is a  Weekend in Austin, Texas Itinerary .

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – 2 hours 56 minutes, 207 miles

Oklahoma City may not be as well-known as other cities on this list but it definitely deserves a spot if you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Dallas. There are plenty of things to do here including visiting local museums and galleries or taking in some live music at one of the city’s many venues. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants serving up delicious cuisine!

Marble Falls – 3 hours 6 minutes, 209 miles

Located just an hour outside of Dallas, Marble Falls is the perfect place to get away for a weekend and enjoy some peace and quiet. With its stunning lakeside views, it’s easy to forget about the hustle and bustle of city life. Spend your days fishing in Lake Marble Falls or exploring the nearby parks and trails. We recommend staying at  The Retreat on the Hill .

Wimberley – 3 hours 31 minutes, 235 miles

Wimberley is located just an hour south of Austin but still close enough to enjoy all that Austin has to offer while having access to small-town charm at the same time!

Here you can explore Blue Hole Regional Park which features a beautiful swimming hole surrounded by lush greenery – perfect for cooling off during hot summer days! Or take a walk around downtown Wimberley with its many shops and galleries filled with local artisans’ work – definitely worth checking out when visiting this part of Texas!

Gruene Historic District – 3 hours 25 minutes, 240 miles

Gruene Historic District is located about 3 hours away from Dallas but it’s worth making the trip if you’re looking for an old-fashioned weekend getaway.

In Gruene, visitors will find charming homes dating back to 1872 as well as numerous antique stores boutiques cafes bars wineries breweries art galleries dance halls live music venues festivals parks gardens walking trails golf courses disc golf courses tubing trips river cruises zip lines hot air balloon.

Weekend Getaways 4 hours from Dallas

San antonio, texas – 3 hours 51 minutes, 274 miles.

San Antonio is another great option if you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Dallas. This city has plenty of attractions to check out, such as the Alamo and River Walk . You can also take in some live music at one of the many jazz clubs or explore one of the city’s many museums and galleries. And don’t forget to try some Tex-Mex while you’re there! I recommend staying at Mokara Hotel & Spa or  Hotel Emma .

Fredericksburg – 4 hours, 262 miles

Fredericksburg, Texas is known for its German heritage and beautiful Hill Country scenery! Spend your days exploring Main Street with its unique shops and restaurants before taking a drive out to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area for some amazing views of this beautiful region!

Don’t miss out on visiting LBJ State Park either – here you can learn all about President Lyndon B Johnson’s childhood growing up in this part of Texas! While there I highly recommend eating at  Silver Creek, a German Restaurant .

• 10 Unique Places to Stay in Fredericksburg, Texas
• 12 Top Wineries in Fredericksburg, Texas
• 10 Amazing Things to Do in Fredericksburg, Texas

Galveston, Texas – 4 hours 3 minutes, 289 miles

Galveston is a popular weekend destination for those living in Dallas due to its proximity and wide range of attractions. Whether you want to spend your days lounging on the beach or exploring historic sites like Moody Mansion, there’s something here for everyone. And don’t forget about the seafood – Galveston is known for its fresh seafood restaurants! Galveston has lots of fabulous VRBOs to stay in. 

Houston – 4 hours, 239 miles

Best Texas Weekend Getaways

Fun Things to Do With Teenagers in Dallas, Texas

10 Family-Friendly Spots To Kayak In Texas

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Get Travel Insuranc e

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flight s

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner !

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO . If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld .

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month! The first 30 days are free!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator . If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar . They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If I am going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean I use Apple Vacations .

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit ! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars .

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase .

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Disclosure : This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Share this story, choose your platform, about the author: meagan, related posts.

Top 10 Fall Travel Destinations: From Tropical Escapes to U.S. Charm

17 Best Places to Eat in Flower Mound

How to Float the River

Cheap Things To Do In Austin

9 Romantic Getaways In Texas On A Budget

• Trips From Dallas

8 iconic road travel destinations to visit from Dallas in the next holiday.

Explore Route 66, New Orleans, Memphis and other famous American travel destinations. Discover unbelievable places right in Texas totally worth the drive.

Long weekend getaways from Dallas, up to 8 hours driving from the city, ideal for whenever you have a few extra days to spare.

Unforgettable long weekend getaways from Dallas

Reach iconic American destinations without hoping on a plane. Discover the very best road trips to take from Dallas, perfect for that upcoming long weekend.

Visit places as quintessential as Memphis, Elvis Presley’s hometown, considered one of the top places to visit in the United States .

Discover nature wonders such as the largest cave system in the US and the second largest canyon in America, just to name a few. Be cowboy for a day. Get lost in the desert. Get wowed by a Texas beach! (yes, you’ve read right).

Road trip baby!

All destinations can be reached in up to 8 hours and are absolutely worth the drive- don’t let it scare you, if you still haven’t gotten used to long distances, you soon will by living in Texas.  

Leaving early in the morning from Dallas, you can watch the most beautiful sunrise from your car – think Texas skies, they are absolutely astonishing! – and reach most of these destinations by lunchtime.

Discover in this article 8 incredible long weekend getaways from Dallas.

They are perfect to be uncovered on Spring Break, Thanksgiving Break and on Holidays such as Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day.

Choose your favorite and go!

Too far? We got you covered

If a long weekend getaways is not an option, or if you simply prefer to drive less, take a look into these amazing 16 weekend getaways within 4 hours from Dallas (some of them can be reached in as little as 1h 30 m). 

And in case a sleepover is not in your plans, but you still need a break from the city, check 28 day trip ideas from Dallas . Awesome places to spend the day as close as 25 minutes from the Big D.

1. Bandera, TX

Be cowboy for a weekend in an authentic texas dude ranch, surrounded by breathtaking nature., distance: 310 miles/ 4 h 45 min from dallas.

An authentic western vacation

Bandera is the perfect travel destination in Texas to live one of the most authentic experiences the Lone Star State has to offer.

Known as the Cowboy Capital of Texas, Bandera is home to Texas best dude ranches, all-inclusive cowboy ranches where you can spend the weekend while enjoying activities as horseback riding, hiking and fishing, among others.

Staying in a Dude Ranch is a once in a lifetime experience you should definitely try while living here – it doesn’t get any more “Texas” than that!

Best Dude Ranches in Bandera

Mayan Ranch  and Rancho Cortez are all prime guest ranches in Bandera, offering an authentic cowboy experience.

For a more affordable (not all-inclusive) yet amazing option, try West 1077 Guest Ranch , a top-rated ranch-style Bed & Breakfast with gorgeous surroundings.

Best things to do in Bandera and Surroundings

Bandera is a tiny town with rich nature surroundings.

Some must-visits while in the area include beautiful Hill Country State Natural Area and Medina River.

The first an absolutely stunning place for horseback riding and hiking. The second on of Texas most crystalline rivers ideal for paddling.

The Banderas surroundings are especially stunning during spring with the beautiful bluebonnets. Lost Maples Natural Area and Garner State Park are stunning nature preserves not too far from there – an about 50 minutes scenic drive. So you might consider to take advantage you are already far from home and in the area to check on them!

A few extra days to spare? Include San Antonio in your itinerary

Bandera makes an awesome long weekend destination from Dallas. But if you have a couple more days to explore the area, stop by San Antonio.

A top travel destination in Texas, San Antonio is only one hour away from Bandera and in your way from Dallas to the small town.

In this post you find the top things to do in San Antonio , including must-visit famous touristic attractions and amazing activities off the beaten path.

2. Palo Duro Canyon, Amarillo and Route 66, TX

Second largest canyon in the u.s., iconic route 66 and world-famous cadillac ranch., distance: 380 miles/ 5 h 45 min from dallas.

The "Grand Canyon of Texas"

Be astonished by the second largest Canyon in the U.S., opening out of nowhere in the middle of the otherwise flat Texas Panhandle.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park sits about 30 minutes away from Amarillo and is a gorgeous nature set. It is the perfect place for hiking and mountain biking in Texas, with well-marked trails for all levels and an amazing scenery.

Things to do at Palo Duro Canyon

Make sure to hike the Lighthouse Trail. Ride a horse throughout the canyon formations.  Try the huge zip line for a shot of adrenaline and superb views. Take a Jeep Tour. Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers tons of activities and can easily entertain you for a few days.

Temperatures during summer can get really high and it is not the best time of the year to visit the park but… you get to watch the amazing Texas Show , an unique performance with Palo Duro Canyon as a background, happening every year only during the summer months. So, weight the possibilities and decide by yourself. Just remember to bring A LOT of water no matter what you decide. 

Lodging in Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Palo Duro Canyon is a destination in itself and I would highly recommend you spend the night inside the park if possible, stopping in Amarillo in your way in and out to Dallas.

The park offers cabins and camping sites , but they are usually booked out months in advance, so plan ahead.

If you decide to head there last minute and cannot score an accommodation inside the State Park for your long weekend getaway, Amarillo offers good hotels and interesting things to do.

Drury Inn and Towneplace by Marriot are your best bets for a luxury stay in Amarillo.

My Place is an affordable and top-rated alternative.

Best things to do in Amarillo.

In Amarillo, visit the legendary Route 66 , currently the 6th Street stretch between Georgia and Western streets. Take a cool pic under the Route 66 sign. Check on Nat Ballroom – once a music venue which hosted big bands in the golden age of Route 66 – and stroll through antique shops, art galleries, pubs and restaurants.

Head then to the neighboring Cadillac Ranch to spray paint real antique Cadillacs without going to jail! The Cadillac Ranch is a worldwide famous public art installation, consisting in 10 Cadillacs from the 40’s- 60’s half buried in the ground and currently colorfully spray-painted by the public. Graffiti is not only allowed but encouraged, and part of the experience. Don’t forget to bring your own spray cans. The Cadillacs can be seen from the highway and entrance is free.

And if you like a challenge (or to eat potentially for free), don’t miss out the Big Texan Steak Ranch . Take their infamous 72 oz steak challenge . If you eat an enormous steak plus side dishes in less than one hour, you don’t pay the bill – ‘simple’ like that (gym pass and medical care not included, lol).

3. Port Aransas, TX

Explore amazing texas beaches at mustang island and padre island national seashore., distance: 414 miles/ 6 h 30 min from dallas.

Be prepared for a change of heart on Texas Beaches

Forget the whole “there is no nice beach in Texas” mantra and choose Port Aransas as your next long weekend getaway from Dallas. You’ll be surprised.

Yes, Texas has amazing beaches. And no, you don’t need to leave the state or drive 10+ hours to South Padre Island to enjoy them.

Just head to Port Aransas, a small coastal town with a great beach vibe. From there, explore 4 amazing beaches in the area: Malaquite Beach and North Beach in the Padre Island National Seashore, Mustang Island State Park and Rockport Beach, the only Blue Wave Beach in Texas.

Skip the tourist traps

Before you go, make sure to read this post with a detailed review of 7 beaches in the Port Aransas – Corpus Christi area .

It talks in depth about the 4 beaches you must visit (the ones I’ve just mentioned) and also warns you about 3 that are not really that nice, so you don’t waste your time and can make the most of your visit!

Fasten your flip flops and go!

4. Memphis, TN

The blues capital of the world, evils presley's hometown and civil rights movement birthplace., distance: 452 miles/ 6 h 35 min from dallas.

Elvis is alive

Spend a memorable long weekend getaway from Dallas at Elvis’ hometown, Memphis.

Explore Graceland a museum/ tribute to the king of rock, raised where once Elvis lived. Stroll through his former house, visit his grave site and get to know the man behind the legend.

Birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement

Learn American history in an immersive and impacting way at the Civil Rights Museum .

Not your ordinary history museum, the Civil Rights Museum is on the grounds of the iconic Lorraine Motel , the very place where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated over 50 year ago.

The superb and interactive exhibition will guide you through the context of this important historical moment and last moments of Martin Luther King’s life. A very touching and eye-opening experience not to be missed.

The "Blues Capital of the World"

Dive into music at the Blues Capital of the world.

Stroll throughout the lively and crazy Beale Street and its pubs and concert venues. Visit the legendary Sun Studio , where rock icons recorded worldwide hits. Explore the fun and interactive Stax Museum of American Soul Music , once the iconic Stax Studio.

World-famous Peabody ducks

If you have kids in tow – or want to spoil your inner child – head to the Peabody Hotel at 11 am or 5 pm to check on the odd and unique Peabody Ducks .

Every day at these times the ducks that live on the roof of the hotel go down the hall using the elevator for a splash into the hotel’s fountain.

Just walk into the lobby – it’s a free attraction open to the public – and maybe grab a seat at the hotel bar to sip a cocktail while you watch the ‘show’.

5. Carlsbad Caverns, NM and Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

One of the most amazing cave systems in the u.s., called 'the grand canyon with a roof on it'., distance: 485 miles/ 7 h 25 min from dallas.

One of the most amazing caves in the United States

Explore Carlsbad Caverns National Park, featured by Fox News as one of the one of the most amazing caverns in the U.S. .

Located in the Chihuahuan Desert, in southeast New Mexico right at the border with Texas, the Carlsbad Caverns are one of the largest cave systems in the world with 119 underground chambers.

Take a cave tour

Start off with the self-guided tours – allow about 3 hours to complete both of them. Hike the Natural Entrance Trail and observe stunning formations like Iceberg Rock, Devil’s Spring and Whale’s Mouth. Follow with the Big Room Trail to step onto the largest cave chamber in North America. 

Then go deeper into the experience and take the Ranger-Guided Tours . Hiking shoes are required, and reservations should be made in advance. The King’s Palace and Left Hand Tunnel tours are offered daily. For the other tours, check their schedule .

Bat Flight and Night Sky Programs

For a side trip and if you are – extremely – in shape, consider hiking the Guadalupe Peak , the highest point in Texas, at the neighboring Guadalupe Mountains National Park . It is a tough and long but rewarding hike, only for the brave ones.

Closest town to the Carlsbad Caverns is White City. But Carlsbad, about 30 minutes away, offers more lodging options, so you might want to consider staying there. Make reservations in advance: as the busiest seasons approach (think school breaks and holidays) prices skyrocket.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

For a side trip and if you are – extremely – in shape, consider hiking the Guadalupe Peak , the highest point in Texas, at the neighboring Guadalupe Mountains National Park .

It is a tough and long but rewarding hike, only for the brave ones.

Where to stay

Closest town to the Carlsbad Caverns is White City. But Carlsbad, about 30 minutes away, offers more lodging options, so you might want to consider staying there.

Make reservations in advance: as the busiest seasons approach (think school breaks and holidays) prices skyrocket.

6. New Orleans, LA

Lively and iconic american destination, european vibe, amazing jazz music scene and creole cuisine., distance: 505 miles/ 7 h 15 min from dallas.

Creole culture

A melting pot of French, American and African cultures, New Orleans is your best bet to travel ‘abroad’ without actually living the U.S..

Take advantage of the next holiday and head there. It makes a terrific long weekend getaway from Dallas year-round.

New Orleans has a peculiar vibe you won’t find elsewhere in the country, with European architecture, and jazz and creole cuisine all over. Certainly a destination that should be in anyone’s bucket list.

Embrace the detours

To get there, consider taking a 30 minutes detour and arriving to New Orleans through the  Lake Pontchartrain Causeway Bridge .

It is the longest bridge of the world over water, listed by the Guinness World Records since 1969 .

Sightseeing and culinary scene

Once in New Orleans, explore the iconic French Quarter .

Visit St. Louis Cathedral , the oldest catholic church in the U.S., and the adjoining Ursuline Convent Museum . Next stop by Cafe du Monde to try the famous beignets and cafe au lait. Then stroll through the French Market for local flavors and handicrafts.

Enjoy the music scene during the day just by strolling around – jazz is everywhere, on the streets and in the tons of music venues spread all over New Orleans.

Have a Jazz Brunch  – Antoine’s, Arnaud’s and Court of Two Sisters are good options. Experience and authentic southern gospel service at St. Augustine Church.

Don’t miss out on the culinary scene: make sure to savor the creole cuisine staples Shrimp Po’ Boy, Gumbo and Jambalaya. Check the best places to try them here .

Nightilife in New Orleans

At night stroll through the infamous Bourbon Street . Step back in time and watch a jazz concert at the legendary Preservation Hall .

Then get out of the touristic buzz and explore the more authentic and trendier Frenchmen Street , a more laid-back area frequented by locals, where you can hop from pub to pub and listen to old-school jazz music. 

New Orleans surroundings

Make sure to take advantage of your long weekend getaway to explore the amazing New Orleans surroundings as well.

Include in yout itinerary a historic plantation tour   – Oak Alley Plantation, Laura Plantation and Whitney Plantation are your best bets. 

Then embark on a  swamp tour  to explore the rich swamplands’ ecosystem and maybe spot an alligator or two.

7. Marfa, TX

Texas quirkiest small town, right in the middle of the desert, marfa is surrounded by mistery and a world-class travel destination in texas., distance: 520 miles/ 7 h 30 min from dallas.

An internationally acclaimed travel destination

If you are looking for something really different and unique, Marfa is your destination.

This eccentric and isolated travel destination is out of this world and an extra especial place to unwind and experience a little known side of Texas.

Best places to stay in Marfa

El Cosmico is the most famous lodging option in the area, and for a reason. A charming glamping site, it offers unique lodging options right in the middle of the desert.

Scoring a reservation there is not easy – you will have to plan months, if not a year, in advance.

But the small desert town also offer other amazing lodging alternatives worth checking, such as Lincoln Marfa and Hotel Saint George.

Things to do in Marfa, TX

In Marfa rent a bike to explore the Desert and make sure to visit acclaimed Chinati Foundation . Stargazing and just chilling out around the firepit under the stars are musts there – you are here to disconnect from the outer world!

In its surroundings visit Fort Davis Historic Site and nearby McDonald Observatory , not to be missed. And Prude Ranch , for an amazing horseback riding experience.

On your way to Marfa stop by Monahans Sandhills State Park to surf the dunes. It is located about 2 hours before reaching Marfa from Dallas, and doesn’t even require a detour.

8. Big Bend National Park, TX

Astonishing under the radar national park and one of texas best kept secrets., distance: 533 miles/ 7 h 50 min from dallas.

Off the beaten path National Park

Featured as one of the top 10 under the radar National Parks in the U.S. by the Jetsetter, the Big Bend National Park offers a breathtaking landscape and superb views. 

It has activities for all tastes, over 200 miles of hiking trails and paved and unpaved roads for amazing scenic drives.

It is a superb place for a long weekend getaway from Dallas.

Best things to do at the Big Bend National Park

The Big Bend offers amazing opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Once there, take Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. Hike the amazing Santa Elena Canyon, Window View and lost Mine Trails, for superb vistas. Make sure to take a dip into the Rio Grande and soak in the hot springs .

Observe the desert wildlife, majestic mountains and rock formations all around.

And, maybe, turn your getaway into an international trip and step your feet in Mexico! – the Big Bend National Park sits along the Mexico-U.S. border and it is possible to cross it at Boquillas Crossing .

When to go and where to stay

Best time of the year to visit the Big Bend is whenever weather is mild. Summer heat can be excruciating, so avoid it between May and September.

For the ultimate Big Bend experience, consider camping or staying in a lodge inside the park. And plan ahead: spots fill up months in advance, so make your reservations as early as possible.

You can also combine your trip to the Big Bend National Park with exotic Marfa. Check this post for more info (destination #21) .

Seize the opportunity!

Living in Dallas? Visiting the city?

You can get up tomorrow early in the morning and reach 8 iconic American destinations and more than unique Texas hidden gems by the afternoon. Places that most people only dream of visiting maybe someday. And without the price tag of a plane ticket. So… What are you waiting for??

Bucket-list places like Memphis and New Orleans. Awe-inspiring National Parks such as Palo Duro Canyon, Carlsbad Caverns and Big Bend. Stunning beaches you simply cannot believe that are located in Texas. And more. All amazing trip destinations within a driving distance from Dallas. 

Plan your long weekend getaway and hit the road

I hope you’ve enjoyed these trip ideas and tons of fun exploring these superb travel destinations.

Go on, pick your favorites, build memories and get back here to let me know your experience.

Which is your favorite trip destination from the ones above? Have been to any of them? Are you planning on visiting them soon? Any destinations you would like to see featured at the Dallas Wanderer? 

Leave your comment bellow!

Get more trips and leisure ideas right to your inbox. New and unique content released every week!

Email address:

Related posts

East texas road trip: caddo lake & surroundings.

Florida 30A Travel Guide

Best day trips from dallas, 10 state parks near dallas with amazing swimming areas, leave a reply cancel reply.

• Things to Do in Dallas
• Trips from Dallas
• Travel Essentials & Reviews

Follow us for daily travel & leisure ideas in Texas and surroundings!

30 Incredible Day Trips from Dallas

By: Author thattexascouple

If you are looking for fabulous day trips from Dallas, Texas , you are in the right place!

It is no secret that Dallas, Texas, is a popular tourist destination.  

Dallas boasts incredible food, world-class museums, and a great nightlife scen e. 

All of this is probably why so many people also call Dallas home. 

Let’s face it, though; sometimes you want to get out of the city and explore other areas. 

There is so much to do in the Lone Star State. From exploring historic downtown areas of the small towns to hiking in state parks !

That is why we put together this post of Dallas day trips !

We have lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth area our entire lives, so we know something about getting out of the city!

Many of these day trips are about 1 hour and 2 hours away from Dallas, making them fun and easy ! You know you spend more than 2 hours just hanging out.

Luckily, most of these suggestions consistently make the list of the best places to visit in Texas also!

So grab your  road trip essentials  and explore this list of  day trips from Dallas .

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

Day Trips Less Than 1 Hour From Dallas

Weatherford.

About 1 hour west of Dallas, Texas, you will find the historic North Texas town of Weatherford, Texas, which makes for a fabulous day trip! 

Visitors can spend the day exploring the Museum of the Americas, which serves to educate on the American Indian population that was found throughout North America.

You can also explore Chandor Gardens and Chandor Mansion and the first Monday flea market if you happen to be in town that weekend.

The first Monday flea market takes place the weekend before the first Monday of the month.

Don’t miss your opportunity to grab homemade ice cream from the Malt Shop in Weatherford!

Read Next: 30 Awesome Facts About Texas (Know Before You Go)

Head about 1 hour west (less than 50 miles) of Dallas , Texas, to Fort Worth. 

Now, locals (like us) will tell you that there is a definitive difference between Dallas and Fort Worth. 

We consider Fort Worth to be the more laid-back North Texas town. LOL!

There are so many  things to do in Fort Worth  that you could stay busy for weeks.  Fort Worth offers great food, awesome museums, an amazing cowboy culture, and fun nightlife. 

Head to Fort Worth’s Sundance Square to enjoy great food, museums, shops, and live entertainment. Sundance Square is brimming with things to do.

Grab a coffee and sit by the fountains in Sundance Square to do some people-watching before having dinner.

Foodies will love visiting the West 7 th  Street area of the city, and history lovers will enjoy exploring the Fort Worth Stockyards.

While in the Fort Worth Stockyards, you can’t miss visiting ‘The World’s Largest Honky-Tonk’, Billy Bob’s.

Billy Bob’s is a Fort Worth legend and the perfect place for live music and dancing for the evening.

Now that’s the honky-tonk life!

There are lots of honky-tonk bars in the Fort Worth Stockyards, so if Billy Bob’s isn’t for you, then check out another one.

Outdoor lovers will love visiting the Fort Worth Water Gardens, Trinity Trails, the Fort Worth Zoo, or the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. 

Also, don’t miss the Kimbell Art Museum and the Fort Worth Modern Art Museum.

Fort Worth is one of the easy day trips from Dallas and a great place to spend Christmas in Texas as it comes alive during the holiday season!

Read Next: How We Travel With Only a Backpack

Located less than 1 hour (about 30 minutes) from Fort Worth and Dallas, Texas, the city of Arlington is the entertainment mecca of this area. 

Arlington has sports teams, theme parks, and wonderful outdoor spaces.

Adrenaline junkies will love visiting Six Flags Over Texas theme park and Hurricane Harbor Waterpark.

Sports fanatics will be home here since the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys call Arlington home. 

Read Next: The Ultimate 3-Day Yellowstone Itinerary

Canton and Canton Trade Days

Canton is just about 1 hour (about 50 miles) east of Dallas. 

Canton is best known for its monthly First Monday Trade Days, the largest flea market in the United States.

The trade days come to town the weekend before the first Monday of each month.

If you love flea markets, then Canton is the place to visit.

The Canton Trade Days flea market brings thousands of visitors to Canton each month. 

Don’t worry about missing the Trade Days; Canton has other attractions. 

You can visit Zip the USA and take part in one of the longest zip lines in Texas or get wet at Splash Kingdom Water Park. 

With Canton being just over 30 minutes from Dallas, it is one of the easy trips from Dallas !

If you want to stay overnight, there is a fun place you can try covered wagon camping in Canton!

Read Next : 20 Fun Things To Do In Galveston, TX

Ennis-The Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas

Head about 35 miles south of Dallas into Ellis County, and in just under 1 hour (about 30 minutes), you will find the small town of Ennis, Texas. 

We especially love to visit Ennis during the annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival every April. 

Here you can drive over 40 miles of trails riddled with the flower of the Lone Star State, the bluebonnet. 

It is truly a sight to behold, so bring your camera as it is a great place to see  bluebonnets in Texas and one of the unique day trips from Dallas.  

Read Next : 20 Fun Things To Do In Estes Park, Colorado

Chocktaw Oklahoma

Located in Durant, Oklahoma, Chocktaw Casino Resort is a quick 30-minute getaway from Dallas. 

Chocktaw not only offers all of the casino games you would expect, but they are also a AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel! 

Of course, they also offer live events and great food.

A short drive north from Dallas up I-35E and in just over 30 minutes will land you in the college town of Denton, Texas. 

Thanks to the colleges that call this area home, Denton boasts a good live music scene, a state park, museums, and more. 

The Denton Courthouse houses a museum, which rotates its exhibits frequently.

Denton Square has fun nostalgic shops, including a homemade ice cream shop!

Denton also has a thriving art scene and great outdoor activities, including museums, art galleries, Clear Creek National Heritage Center, and Ray Roberts Lake State Park.

This is another one of the easy trips from Dallas.

Read Next : The Perfect 10 Day Italy Itinerary

Dallas Day Trips That Are a 2 to 3-Hour Drive

Davy crockett national forest.

Head just over 2 hours east of Dallas, Texas, and you will be deep in the heart of East Texas.

While East Texas has lots to offer, one of the highlights is Davy Crockett National Forest. Yes, we have a National Forest in Texas!

Davy Crockett National Forest comprises more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands.

This is a huge area of piney woods and one of the reasons that East Texas is referred to as ‘The Piney Woods.’

Davy Crockett National Forest allows you to enjoy miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and designated horseback riding trails, making this one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Read Next: Best Time To Visit Yellowstone

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park Oklahoma

About 3 hours from Dallas sits Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park in Oklahoma.

Nature lovers flock to the town of Broken Bow as it is home to Beavers Bend State Park, one of Oklahoma’s top state parks.

You can stay in a cozy cabin in Broken Bow to call your home base while you explore the Gardner Mansion and Museum, check out the historic downtown, and sip some wine at a local winery.

Of course, as we mentioned above, Beavers Bend State Park is the biggest draw to the Broken Bow area.

Beavers Bend State Park is a piney woods forest area with miles of hiking trails, biking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, river float trips, and more.

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park are some of the great trips from Dallas!

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is in North Texas, just under 2 hours from the Dallas metroplex.

Lake Texoma is situated on the Red River between Texas and Oklahoma.

Covering more than 74,000 acres, Lake Texoma is one of the largest lake reservoirs in the United States.

Lake Texoma is a water paradise.

While visiting Lake Texoma, you can enjoy all the water activities like fishing, swimming, and canoeing.

In addition, the Lake Texoma area offers shopping, spa treatments, restaurants, and nightlife you can enjoy.

All of this makes Lake Texoma one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Read Next: 101 Travel Experiences For Your Couple’s Bucket List

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is a gorgeous state park located about 3 hours from Dallas.

Visitors flock to Pedernales Falls State Park in the summer to escape the Texas heat by enjoying the Pedernales River.

In Pedernales Falls State Park, the Pedernales River flows over large outcroppings of limestone, creating the perfect environment to enjoy the falls.

Be careful ; the water levels vary according to rain and can get very swift .

Be sure and check the conditions before getting into the river.

Pedernales Falls State Park is a great place to camp, ride horses, do some geocaching, or relax!

This is one of the great day trips from Dallas!

Read Next: 15 Fun Things To Do In Hot Springs, Arkansas

Known as the Live Music Capital of the U.S., Austin is the place to be if you love live music. 

Austin also has a hip food and art scene, making it one of the best day trips since it is just 3 hours from Dallas to Austin!

There are so many  free things to do in Austin  that you could visit the city and spend very little money. 

You can spend the day touring the Capital Building, visiting an art museum, or enjoying nature without spending a penny!

If you decide to turn this day trip from Dallas into a weekend trip, then be sure to check out the  best places to stay in Austin  as well.

Austin is always one of the fun trips from Dallas .

Read Next: Taking the Naples to Capri Ferry: All You Need To Know

Davis, Oklahoma and Turner Falls Oklahoma

Turner Falls is located in Davis, Oklahoma, near the Texas border, making it one of the best day trips.

Head about 2 hours north of Dallas to find the city of Davis and Turner Falls.

Turner Falls offers a gorgeous waterfall, multiple swimming areas, and even trails to explore. 

A visit to Turner Falls is fun for all ages. 

Spend your day enjoying the water slides or just lounging on the sandy beach at Turner Falls. 

Turner Falls also offers cabins and camping if you want to spend the night.

Just note that Turner Falls gets extremely busy on holiday weekends, so we always avoid visiting then!

Located just over 2 hours from Dallas, Jefferson is well known for its historic homes that can be found throughout the city. 

Combine that with the museums, the Big Cypress Bayou, and the Texas charm of the city, and make it one of the great day trips from Dallas.

While visiting, you can tour some of the historic homes in the area or ride the Jefferson Historic Railway.

A major draw to this area is the Big Cypress Bayou, a series of wetlands at the edge of Caddo Lake.

The Big Cypress Bayou is said to have the largest variety of fish in any river in Texas.

People love to spend the day here fishing and kayaking.

Read Next: 20 Romantic Things To Do In Vegas For Couples

The lovely little lake town of Granbury, Texas, is just under 2 (about 1 hour and 30 minutes) from Dallas.

With a great little town square and a wonderful recreational lake, Granbury is the perfect place to head for a day trip in Texas.  There are so many  things to do in Granbury, TX  that you could stay busy for days!

Granbury has a great lake to enjoy. In addition, do some shopping around all of the cute boutiques, shops, and restaurants the Granbury Square. 

Arbuckle Wilderness-Oklahoma

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is located in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains in Davis, Oklahoma, about 2 hours outside of Dallas. 

This drive-thru safari park is definitely one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Arbuckle Wilderness is a treat located about 2 hours away from Dallas.

At Arbuckle Wilderness, you can enjoy feeding and interacting with their collection of exotic animals from the comfort of your vehicle.

Located on more than 200 acres and being open year-round makes a trip to Arbuckle Wilderness a fun time, anytime!

Read Next : 26 Fabulous Things to do in Eureka Springs

Glen Rose and Dinosaur Valley State Park

Glen Rose is a great little town to visit for a day trip, especially since it is about 2 hours away from Dallas. 

Glen Rose boasts a unique history and an awesome Texas state park that is fun for explorers of all ages.

The biggest draw to this area is Dinosaur Valley State Park.

At Dinosaur Valley State Park, you can enjoy swimming in the cool waters of the Paluxy River, hiking over 20 miles of trails, and seeing some of the finest examples of dinosaur tracks in Texas.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is also home to miles of trails, and you can find horseback riding there.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is physical proof that dinosaurs once roamed in the Lone Star State years ago.

Of course, there are many other things to do in Glen Rose, TX, making it one of the best day trips from Dallas .

A visit to Hico, Texas, is like a day trip back into Texas’ past. 

This charming little town is a fun and easy day trip from Dallas as it is under 2 hours (really, it’s about 1 hour and 30 minutes) away.

Hit up Hico’s downtown area to explore the many boutique shops and restaurants that line the street. 

You can check out Siloville. 

Visitors can climb inside the silo walls and participate in a zip-line and ropes course.  The area also has a great golf course and some fun outdoor recreation.

Read Next : 12 Awesome Things to do in Marble Falls

You can get from Dallas to Salado in just about 2 hours. 

Situated on the banks of Salado Creek, Salado is a great escape for those that love art, antiques, and small-town charm.

Make your first stop at the 1.5-mile stretch of Main Street in Salado. 

Here you will find numerous shops housing antiques, clothing, home goods, and works from local artists. 

You can also check out the Salado Sculpture Garden and the historic Stagecoach Inn and watch a glass-blowing demonstration! 

Lake Murray State Park

Head about 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Dallas, and you will find the gorgeous Lake Murray State Park. 

This 12,500-acre park is more than half covered with Lake Murray.  

This state park is the perfect spot to enjoy some great outdoor activities. 

You can enjoy cooling off in the refreshingly clear waters of the lake or hike and bike on the many trails you will find on the state parklands. 

Waco-Magnolia Market and Dr. Pepper Museum

Waco has quickly gained popularity thanks to the popular HGTV couple Chip and Joanna Gaines thanks to their show Fixer Upper. 

While Fixer Upper has drawn many visitors to this Texas town, Waco has been popular far before. 

Located just over 1 hour from Dallas, Texas , Waco is an easy day trip!

Of course, you will want to visit Magnolia Market and get a cupcake from the Silos Baking Co.

Once you have your fill of Magnolia Market, check out Waco’s craft breweries, wineries, and even a distillery. 

While here, you can also explore the Dr. Pepper Museum and see the remains of a mammoth!

The Dr. Pepper Museum is a Lone Star State original (because Dr. Pepper was invented here), so don’t miss it!

Consider taking a bus from Dallas to Waco to save someone else’s driving.

This makes the trip quick and easy for you!

Head about 2 hours west of Dallas to find the fun town of Dublin, Texas.

One of our favorite places in Dublin is Dublin Bottling Works and the Dr. Pepper Museum. 

When you visit, you can grab lunch at their 50’s themed soda fountain before taking a tour of the bottling factory and heading to the Dr. Pepper Museum.

While you are here, shop downtown Dublin’s fun and quirky shops, like Things Celtic.  This store took us back to our time in  Ireland . 

Marshall is about 2 hours outside of Dallas, so why not try it?

You know you are in for a treat if you visit a town with an annual Fire Ant Festival. LOL!

Visitors to Marshall can enjoy shopping at the boutique and specialty shops you will find downtown. 

While in this area, take in the historic 1901 Harris County Courthouse and visit some East Texas wineries like Walker’s Mill and Enoch’s Stomp ! 

Day Trips That Are a 3-4 Hour Drive

San antonio.

Known for its Mexican heritage and awesome Riverwalk area, San Antonio is another one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Like Austin, there are so many  free things to do in San Antonio  that you can spend as much or little visiting this Texas gem.

Of course, the San Antonio Riverwalk is a must-do. 

Here you can enjoy strolling along the river or taking one of the riverboat tours.

Of course, you can’t miss the national historic landmark in San Antonio, The Alamo. 

After touring the Alamo, we recommend you follow the San Antonio Mission Trail and visit the other national historic missions within 30 minutes of the Riverwalk.

In addition, try visiting the Japanese Tea Gardens and the Pearl Brewery area.

Head about 3 hours and 30 minutes south of Dallas, and you will hit Houston, Texas.

Houston is one of the best day trips to experience incredible museums, great food, sports, and music.

You must visit the awesome Houston Museum of Natural Sciences, the world-famous Space Center Houston, and the Downtown Aquarium and catch a sports game at Minute Maid Park or NRG Stadium.

Of course, there are countless outdoor parks and green spaces to enjoy outside while visiting Houston.

Read Next: 70 Cheap Things To Do In Vegas That You Will Love

Colorado Bend State Park-A Texas Jewel

Head about 3 hours southwest of Dallas, and you will find Colorado Bend State Park.

A trip to this Texas state park makes you feel like you have been transported to another world.

Colorado Bend State Park is home to Gorman Falls, one of the most beautiful falls in Texas.

Standing under Gorman Falls makes you feel like you are in Costa Rica, not Colorado Bend State Park in Texas!

In addition to Gorman Falls, Colorado Bend State Park is home to Spicewood Springs, miles of hiking trails, and even caves!

All of this makes Colorado Bend State Park one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Boerne is one of the fun small towns outside San Antonio.

Visit the historic downtown and tour the shops before heading out into nature to enjoy the state park and caves.

Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Texas Hill Country at the Guadalupe River State Park or the Cibolo Nature Center. 

One of the most popular things to do in the summer is to enjoy tubing the Guadalupe River at the Guadalupe River State Park.

Boerne also hosts two caverns, the Cave without a Name and Cascade Caverns.

Read Next : 36 Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Wimberley-A Great Art Community

Wimberley, TX, is about 3 hours and 30 minutes southwest of Dallas. 

Located near Austin, this artsy community packs a big punch for such a  small Texas town . 

There are so many  things to do in Wimberley, TX ; deciding how to spend your day will be hard!

Wimberly has several swimming holes, including Jacob’s Well, Cypress Creek, and Blue Hole.

You can do a wine tasting at Wimberley Valley Winery or an olive oil tasting at Bella Vista Ranch while visiting as well. 

Shoppers and art lovers will love the town’s many art galleries and boutique stores and will definitely think this is one of the best day trips.

Read Next : 3 Steamboat Springs Hot Springs You Must Visit

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is about 3 hours north of Dallas and packed with things to do. 

Oklahoma City has a fun entertainment area, many museums, and a great food scene.

Oklahoma’s Bricktown area has shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. 

If you are into street art, be sure and stop by the Plaza District and visit the Plaza Walls.

Oklahoma City is also full of museums. 

There is a State Firefighters Museum, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, and one of our favorite museums in this area, the Oklahoma Railway Museum.   

Another fun Oklahoma attraction is the Oklahoma elephant sanctuary, the Endangered Ark Foundation, which can be found in Hugo, Oklahoma.

Fredericksburg

We love the small-town feel, German heritage, and many  things to do in Fredericksburg .

There are so many  wineries in Fredericksburg, TX , that you could easily spend a week or more just tasting wine. 

While in the area, you should definitely check out Enchanted Rock State Park. 

This giant pink granite boulder is perfect for a day hike and a picnic. Note, though, this is one popular state park, so make reservations.

Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War and the Pioneer Museum before shopping at the many shops on Main Street.

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Dallas

There are so many day trips from Dallas that are within a 1 hour or 2 hours drive from Dallas !

We hope we have inspired you to explore the great areas within a short drive of the city! 

Comment below and tell us what to add to our trips from the Dallas list.

We still have lots of exploring in the great Lone Star State.

Happy Travel, friends!!

While You’re Here, Check Out These Other Texas Posts:

50 Awesome Texas Bucket List Experiences

15 Awesome Things to Do in Spicewood, TX

5 Great Road Trips in Texas

Eating Our Way Through Dallas’ Bishop Arts District

15 Fun Things to Do in Canyon Lake, TX

Romantic Getaways in Texas

Fabulous Lake Buchanan Cabins, RV Park, and Camping

25 Epic Things To Do In New Orleans

Let’s Connect on Social Media!

• Instagram Follow
• Pinterest Follow
• TikTok follow
• Twitter follow
• YouTube follow
• Flickr follow
• facebook link

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

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.

Monday 21st of November 2022

You didn't mention something cool about Murray Lake State Park. It has tons of buildings built in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps. This weekend we climbed up the Turner Tower, which was built by CCC/WPA with the intention of providing a weekend retreat for Oklahoma governors. It wasn't ever used for that purpose, but instead was opened as a museum. Today there is a museum of the WPA/CCC work at Murray Lake, as well as a mastodon skull and tusks shown there. Next to Turner Tower is a Nature Museum showcasing local wildlife. We had a great visit.

thattexascouple

Friday 25th of November 2022

Thank you for the this, Suzie. We will definitely check it out on our next visit.

Lana Paredes

Wednesday 1st of December 2021

I’m doing a little online research trying to find a quick holiday getaway , feeling quite nostalgic having visited many of these places as a child. When much to my surprise, I scroll down to read about the author and it’s an old friend! Good memories all around!

Saturday 4th of December 2021

Hi Lana!! Oh my gosh! It is so great to hear from you! I am so glad that you found our little piece of the internet. Please reach out if you have questions or just want to chat!!

Saturday 19th of June 2021

I lived in Dallas for a few months in 2018 for an internship, and I wish I had more time to explore the nearby cities. There's so much to see down south!

Monday 21st of June 2021

There really is. Maybe you can come back and visit!

I had no idea there were so many cool day trips from Dallas! The bluebonnet trail would be so amazing in full bloom.

Yes! They are so beautiful. It truly is one of my favorite times of the year!

Jacqueline Le

Monday 22nd of March 2021

Did not realize Oklahoma City could be done as a day trip from Dallas. I'd love to knock that one off the bucket list next time I visit Dallas. Also, Hico sounds right up my alley I love things that look historic so I can pretend I'm in a wild west movie hah

You would definitely love Hico. Oklahoma City is about a 4-hour drive so it is a long day but can definitely be done if you don't mind that. :)

27 Epic Day Trips from Dallas You Might Never Have Known Existed

So, you’ve finally got a day to spare in Dallas, and you’re itching to explore. No worries! 

There are tons of fun day trips from Dallas that are just a short drive away, like walking in real dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park or literally stopping to smell the roses in the small town of Tyler. Texas is a big place, but all the spots on this list are less than 4 hours away and ranked by distance.

I understand how tricky it can be to choose the perfect spot when you’re short on time. I used to juggle corporate with weekend escapes that were always just a bit too far away.

Fortunately, adopting the van living lifestyle let me work full-time while going all over the West Coast. So, after exploring all the best of Dallas during my month+ Texas adventure, here are my top picks for places to visit near Dallas that are just a short drive away.

Easy Day Trips from Dallas: Less than 1 Hour

1. fort worth, texas.

Distance:  ~32 miles/30 minutes  Type:  Urban Best Time to Go to Fort Worth:  Spring or fall

Merging the nostalgia of the Old West with urban sophistication, Fort Worth is more than just cowboy boots and rodeos. The Stockyards National Historic District, with its cattle drives and Western saloons, is the heart of cowboy culture and the chance to two-step in Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk. I personally went just to see the Fort Worth Water Gardens.

Fort Worth is worth visiting for its well-preserved history and art scene, and it is absolutely one of the quickest Dallas day trips to take. The city is a jewel for those wanting to experience the Texan bravado without straying too far from downtown Dallas. Also, if you’re an art aficionado, the Cultural District houses masterpieces by the likes of Warhol and Picasso.

2. Arlington, Texas

Distance:  ~20 miles/30 minutes  Type:  Entertainment Best Time to Go:  Year-round

Arlington is your go-to spot for thrills and spills. As the home of the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers, you can catch a game and soak up the electric atmosphere at AT&T Stadium or Globe Life Park. The energy at the stadiums is contagious, regardless of whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in it for the hot dogs and halftime shows. 

Nearby, the Six Flags Over Texas offers roller coasters galore for those who dare to ride!

3. Denton, Texas

Distance:  ~40 miles/45 minutes  Type:  College Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring or fall

Feel the youthful energy and quirky vibes of Denton, a small town with a big personality that lies just north of Dallas. Known for its vibrant music scene, it’s often referred to as “Little Austin.” The town square is sprinkled with vintage shops, cool cafes, and upbeat music venues.

If you’re someone who delights in discovering local artistry and musical talent, the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University always make sure there’s something happening. Don’t miss the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival if you’re around in the fall.

4. Canton (Canton Trade Days)

Distance:  ~60 miles/1 hour  Type:  Shopping & Cultural Best Time to Go:  First Monday of each month

Experience one of the largest and most famous flea markets in the world! The First Monday Trade Days are a massive event that consumes the small town of Canton each month.

Canton Trade Days is worth it for its sheer scale and variety. You’ll find everything from unique home decor to farm animals for sale at this flea market. It’s a treasure hunter’s dream with the added bonus of hearty Texas food and live entertainment. Plus, the friendly Southern atmosphere makes it as much a social occasion as a shopping spree.

Best Day Trips from Dallas: Less than 2 Hours

5. athens, texas.

Distance:  ~73 miles/1.25 hours  Type:  Nature & Adventure Best time to visit:  Spring or Fall

Affectionately labeled as the “Black-Eyed Pea Capital of the World,” Athens, Texas, is set in the lush, green rolling hills of East Texas . 

Dive into freshwater fun at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center where fishing and interactive exhibits make a splash with the entire family. The East Texas Arboretum showcases nature trails and beautiful gardens.

Cultural curiosity is also satisfied with historical landmarks like the Henderson County Courthouse and the Athens Scuba Park for those up for underwater exploration. After working up an appetite, savor the local cuisine with down-home eateries that serve up more than just black-eyed peas. Think succulent barbecue and sweet slices of pie that taste like Southern hospitality.

6. Granbury, Texas

Distance:  ~70 miles/1.25 hours  Type:  Historic Town & Lake Retreat  Best Time to Go:  Spring to fall

Stroll around the well-preserved 19th-century buildings of Granbury. It’s an attractive spot for those who appreciate history, architecture, and a slower pace of life.

With Lake Granbury at its doorstep, pull up for a day of boating, fishing, or chilling on a lakefront bench. Add to that a lineup of unique boutiques, wineries, and cozy eateries, and you’re in for a treat. 

Check out Granbury Opera House for a show, and the night-time Ghosts and Legends tour is a must for a spooky encounter with the town’s past residents. 

7. Waco, Texas

Distance:  ~95 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Eclectic Attractions & Heritage Best Time to Go to Waco:  Late spring or early fall

Before going, I used to only know Waco from that miniseries, but it really is a hidden gem for those looking for an authentic slice of Texan life. 

Why should Waco be on your go-to list? For starters, it’s home to the renowned Magnolia Market at the Silos, birthed by the visionaries Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper” fame. Here, shopping, dining, and leisure converge, all set in a rustic, beautifully landscaped space. Here, you can sample some of the best food trucks in the area.

Learn something from the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum or the Dr. Pepper Museum, which is all about the nation’s oldest major soft drink. The Cameron Park Zoo has exotic animals, while the Waco Mammoth National Monument offers a jaw-dropping peek at the remains of mammoths that roamed the region thousands of years ago.

8. Tyler, Texas

Distance:  ~98 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Roses and Outdoor Activities Best Time to Go:  Spring for the Rose Festival or fall

Dubbed as the “Rose Capital of America,” Tyler, Texas is a city renowned for its enchanting rose gardens and charming historic district. Wander through the Tyler Rose Garden to experience one of the largest public rose gardens in the U.S., home to thousands of rose bushes and myriad vibrant blooms. It is especially breathtaking during the annual Texas Rose Festival in October.

Other than roses, go visit the historic Carnegie Library, the Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum, the contemporary exhibits at the Tyler Museum of Art, or go chill by Lake Tyler.

9. Lake Texoma, Oklahoma

Distance:  ~95 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Nature  Best Time to Go:  Early summer through fall

Straddling the border between Texas and Oklahoma, Lake Texoma is a massive reservoir, one of the largest in the United States, for fishing, boating, and windsurfing fun. It covers an impressive 89,000 acres.

Anglers from everywhere come to test their skills against this sought-after game, Striped Bass. But with over a hundred miles of shoreline dotted with scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds, Lake Texoma is a great spot to get into nature without venturing too far from the conveniences of the city.

10. Glen Rose (Dinosaur Valley State Park)

Distance:  ~80 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Historical & Family Fun Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

Travel back in time at  Dinosaur Valley State Park  in Glen Rose, Texas, where you’ll find real dinosaur footprints preserved in the riverbed. Take a dip in the Paluxy River while keeping an eye out for these ancient tracks, or walk along the park’s hiking and biking trails.

For even more dino fun, visit Dinosaur World to see life-size replicas of various species and take part in interactive exhibits. At the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, you can drive through and see over 1,000 animals, including bison and giraffes, in their natural habitats. 

Nearby, there is another park filled with unusually large rock formations creatively named Big Rocks Park.

11. Mineral Wells Fossil Park, Texas

Distance:  88 miles/1.5 hours Type:  Outdoor & Nature Best Time to Go : Year-round

For the young or young at heart,  Mineral Wells Fossil Park  is a great spot for fossil hunting and learning about Earth’s history.

The park is open to the public, and you can keep whatever fossils you find. The park is a treasure trove from the Pennsylvanian Period, meaning you can literally pick up fossils that are over 300 million years old. Just BYOT – bring your own tools.

12. Paris, Texas

Distance:  ~100 miles/1.75 hours  Type:  Quaint Small Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring for the annual Dogwood Festival

Just a short drive from Dallas is a charming town named after its French counterpart. Paris, Texas, boasts gorgeous architecture with a mix of Victorian and Art Deco styles. 

Take a tour of the Eiffel Tower with a replica built in Paris, or visit the Red River Valley Veterans Memorial to pay tribute to those who have served our country. And there’s an annual Dogwood Festival in spring, where you can see thousands of blooming dogwood trees throughout the city. 

13. Dublin, Texas

Distance:  ~122 miles/2 hours  Type:  Small Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring for the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration

Dublin, Texas, may be a small town, but it is known as the birthplace of Dr. Pepper. You can actually go taste the original formula at the Dublin Bottling Works. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area to admire its collection of murals, or stop by the Ben Hogan Museum to learn about the legendary golfer’s roots.

Dublin’s annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration is a total highlight, complete with a parade and plenty of Irish-inspired activities. And for a dose of outdoor adventure, head to nearby Lake Proctor for fishing and boating.

14. Davis, Oklahoma (Turner Falls Park)

Distance:  ~130 miles/2 hours  Type:  Natural Landmark & Water Recreation Best Time to Go:   Summer for swimming

Turner Falls State Park  in Davis, Oklahoma, boasts the state’s highest waterfall, measuring at seventy-seven feet. This landscape set in the Arbuckle Mountains is filled with miles of trails, swimming, and photography. 

The waterfall isn’t the only attraction here; there are also caves, rock formations, and natural pools to explore. For those wanting to extend their stay, there are campsites and cabins available for rent. Plus, the nearby town of Davis offers a variety of restaurants and shops to complete your trip.

15. Texas State Railroad, Palestine & Rusk, Texas

Distance:  ~127 miles/2 hours Type:  Train ride and historical tour Best Time to Go : Spring through fall

Ride on the  Texas State Railroad , a historic train chugging through the piney woods of East Texas. The railroad has both vintage steam and diesel locomotives, with different themes for each car, such as the first-class First Lady or open-air coach Sunset Limited.

The trip includes a stop at an 1880s-style train depot where you can explore exhibits and watch a traditional train robbery reenactment. You can also opt for a themed ride, like the popular Polar Express during the holiday season or a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner train.

Dallas Day Trips: Less than 3 Hours

16. old zoo nature trails, cisco, texas.

Distance:  140 miles/2.5 hours Type:  Outdoor Adventure & Nature  Best Time to Go : Anytime except for during hunting season

Los Angeles isn’t the only place with an abandoned old zoo to wander around. If you’re up for some hikes in a unique spot, check out the Old Zoo Nature Trails in Cisco, Texas. 

Opened in the 1920s, the local residents were delighted to have some tourism come to their part of town. Despite its limited animal variety compared to today, people loved it. That is, until the zoo’s closure was triggered by a murder mystery involving a poisoned bear and suspicious deer deaths. 

Abandoned in the 1930s, a local nonprofit later transformed the site into a hiking trail. Visitors can still walk by the old enclosures, shelters, and staff offices, creating an eerie yet tranquil 1.5-mile track.

17. Austin, Texas

Distance:  ~200 miles/3 hours  Type:  Urban & Foodie Adventures Best Time to Go to Austin:  Spring or Fall

Probably better for weekend trips than an Austin day trip , I was surprised by how much I loved this city! I’ve since gone back three more times, staying 2 weeks to a month each. It helps when one of your best buds just became a homeowner.

As the state capital of Texas, Austin is a young city filled with fun activities, music, and delicious food, especially Terry Black’s Texan BBQ. Stroll South Congress Avenue to see street art, boutique shops, and tasty food trucks. Watch the bats fly out from under Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset (best in summer months). 

And, of course, paddleboard Ladybird Lake or catch a live music show along Sixth Street (Dirty Six) or at one of the many music festivals throughout the year, such as South by Southwest (SXSW) or Austin City Limits.

18. Caddo Lake State Park, Karnack, Texas

Distance:  168 miles/3 hours Type:  Water Recreation & Wildlife Watching Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

Caddo Lake  is a hidden gem in Northeast Texas, bordering Louisiana. This magnificent bayou is created by a 25,400-acre mix of swamps and ponds. Spanish moss hangs over bald cypress trees, and in winter, the moss turns silver, resembling long gray hair on the trees. Birds chirp, frogs croak, and alligators swim through the water. 

The lake’s rich history dates back to the pearl rush of 1910 when freshwater pearls were found in the mussels. The rush lasted three years until rising water levels made it hard to reach the mussels. Though the pearl seekers are gone, Today, most visitors journey by boat through the sloughs and ponds to fish, observe the birds, or search the murky waters for signs of its reptilian inhabitants.

Travel Tip:  Beware the alligators here!

19. Colorado Bend State Park

Distance:  ~186 miles/3 hours  Type:  Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

 Located in the scenic Texas Hill Country,  Colorado Bend State Park  is over 5,000 acres of stunning landscapes, rivers, moss, and caves. The park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and investigating the many caves within its boundaries. 

One of the highlights of the park is Gorman Falls, a 60-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. 

20. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Distance:  ~205 miles/3 hours  Type:  Urban Exploration Best Time to Go to Oklahoma City : Spring and Fall

Although it’s not in Texas, Oklahoma City is still a great option for a day trip from Dallas. The city has a rich history with the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, as well as the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, dedicated to the victims of the 1995 bombing.

For some family fun, visit the Oklahoma City Zoo or Frontier City amusement park. And Oklahoma is also quite famous for its barbecue joints. 

Dallas Day Trips: Less than 4 Hours

21. san marcos, texas.

Distance:  ~225 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go to San Marcos : Spring to fall

Located halfway between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos is another great spot for river tubing on the crystal-clear San Marcos River. Although tubing here is a bit far from Dallas, I can attest to how fun this is, even if we got caught in a lightning storm the day we went. 

After a day of outdoor fun, head to one of the many local breweries or wineries for some craft drinks. 

22. Pedernales Falls State Park

Distance:  ~235 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go:  Spring and fall

Located just west of Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park is a peaceful retreat. The highlight of the park is the beautiful Pedernales River, which flows over limestone ledges and large smooth rocks.

Dive into the cool waters at the limestone falls, a local favorite for swimming and tubing, or lace up your hiking boots to explore trails that lead you to sunset views atop white cliffs.

23. Houston, Texas

Distance:  ~240 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Cultural & Urban Exploration Best Time to Go to Houston : Spring and fall

As the largest city in Texas, there’s no shortage of things to do on a Houston itinerary. This is another city that shocked me. I spent three days running around trying to fit everything in and just couldn’t, so this city might be better left for a longer road trip.

If you don’t get to anything else, go see the Space Center Houston to learn about NASA’s space exploration missions, or go see the immersive art at Seismique or famous works at the Menil Collection. Although it’s just a centerpiece for a park, the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is pretty darn cool too.

If you really want to spend another hour driving, you can reach the coast of Galveston Island. 

24. Wimberley, Texas

Distance:  ~230 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Small Town Charm & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

For a peaceful day trip with small-town charm, head to Wimberley. This Hill Country gem is known for its quaint shops, art galleries, and beautiful scenery. Take a dip in the amazing-looking Blue Hole or hike to Jacob’s Well, an artesian spring that is actually a submerged cave system that divers have explored to depths of over 100 feet!

Try a new activity at the Wimberley Glassworks for a glass-blowing experience and some of the delicious local wines at one of the many wineries in town. 

25. New Braunfels, Texas

Distance:  ~240 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go to New Braunfels:  Summer for river tubing and water parks

Between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels is a popular summer destination for its two main attractions: the Comal and Guadalupe rivers. These beautiful bodies of water are a fun and popular way to beat the Texas heat with river tubing, kayaking, and rafting. 

You’ll see hordes of groups tie tubes together and float down the river, with packed coolers of beer and snacks. There’s also a city tube chute in town for a more intense experience.

If you’re more into traditional water parks, check out Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort or Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

26. Fredericksburg, Texas

Distance:  ~249 miles/4 hours  Type:  Small Town & Wine Country Best Time to Go to Fredericksburg : Spring and fall for Oktoberfest celebrations 

Known as the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a small town with a German background. Although best known as the Napa of Texas for its many wineries and tastings, you can also explore the historic Main Street or take a scenic drive to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. And try some German cuisine while you’re in town! 

During the spring, check out the beautiful wildflower fields, and in the fall, don’t miss out on their annual Oktoberfest celebration. I love bat caves, so there’s also a deserted railroad tunnel 10 miles away that’s home to up to 3 million bats if that’s something you want to see up close. 

27. San Antonio, Texas

Distance:  ~275 miles/4 hours  Type:  Historical & Family Fun Best Time to Go to San Antonio : Fall and spring

Now, this is starting to be a long drive, but San Antonio is a must-visit destination in Texas and a pretty small city good for one day . The city’s beloved River Walk is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with its beautiful waterway lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. You can also visit the historic Alamo for a lesson in Texas history.

 For some family fun, head to SeaWorld San Antonio or Six Flags Fiesta Texas for roller coasters and water rides. And eat delicious Tex-Mex food while you’re in town!

Final Thoughts: Best Mini Road Trips from Dallas

Isn’t it wild how much there is to see just outside of Dallas? This list should guide you to some surprisingly fun spots like Canton Trade Days or lead you to natural gems like Pedernales Falls State Park. 

And if you’re eager to explore other parts of Texas, don’t forget to check out our other guides on the Lone Star State.

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in Texas?

I’ve stayed with friends and vanlifed around, about, and through much of Texas. If you’re looking for more information on the Lone Star State, check out these other destination itineraries.

• One Day in Dallas Itinerary: Perfect First-Timers Day Trip
• One Day in Big Bend National Park Itinerary for First-Timers
• One Day In San Antonio Itinerary: What To Do In 24 Hours
• Perfect One Day In Houston Itinerary For First Timers

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

• 9 Epic Moab Jeep Tours That Will Make Your Heart Race
• 8 Storybook US Towns That Will Make You Think You've Teleported to Europe
• 28 Epic Day Trips from Austin You Might Never Have Known Existed
• 14 Bizarre Weather Phenomena You Didn't Know to Watch For in the US

8 Great Day Trips From Dallas (Under 3 Hours’ Drive)

Craving a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Dallas? Here are some great ideas for day trips from Dallas – all within a 3-hour drive.

Whether you’re a long-time resident, a newcomer to the city or visiting Dallas for a weekend , sometimes you just need a change of scenery. And what makes Dallas so great is that within 3 hours’ drive you could be soaking up the sun by a lake, living your cowboy or cowgirl dream, or discovering dinosaur footprints.

Dallas was my home for 2.5 years, and while there’s so much food, nightlife and history to be discovered, there are also some incredible day trips that get you out of the city and exploring more of Texas.

So, if you’re looking to escape the Big D, here are the best day trips from Dallas.

What's in this article (Click to view)

Forty-five minutes northwest of Dallas, Denton has been a college town since 1890.

Start your day trip to Denton with a stroll around Denton Square, checking out the cute shops, candy stores and historic buildings. There are a huge number of second-hand stores, full of all sorts of bric-a-brac. You’ll find old toys that bring back childhood memories, nostalgic signs and knick-knacks.

Check out the street art, which line the buildings from Fry Street to downtown.

When you’re ready to eat, the burger at Barley & Board can’t be beat. Simple, with just two thin patties, cheese, pickles and a creamy sauce, it’s perfectly cooked and something worth driving 45 minutes to eat!

Finish up your day trip with a beer at Oak St. Drafthouse. Located in one of the oldest houses in Denton, it’s a cool spot with indoor seating and a huge outdoor patio.

2. Fort Worth

Dallas’s sister city, Fort Worth is always a must-visit. Just half an hour from Dallas, it’s so close but has such a different vibe.

Your first stop in Fort Worth should be the Sundance Square environment distract, where you can shop until you drop at its unique boutiques, eat your way through a variety of cuisines or listen to live music.

You also can’t miss the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. It’s here that Longhorn cattle are paraded through the streets twice a day – time your visit to Fort Worth with this!

Once you’ve had your cowboy fix, Fort Worth is also home to the oldest botanic gardens in the state, as well as award-winning museums like the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

Hungry? Eat at 61 Osteria, a classic Italian restaurant that’s a local favourite. Atico is a rooftop tapas bar with great views over the Fort Worth Stockyards and the city.

While Fort Worth is one of the best day trips from Dallas, it’s also one of the best romantic getaways in Texas if you want to stay a little longer.

Recommended by Ossama of Awesome Traveler

3. Glen Rose

As the Dinosaur Capital of Texas, Glen Rose is a must-visit from Dallas.

A million years ago, herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaurs roamed the area. They left hundreds of footprints that you can still see along the bed of the Paluxy River in Dinosaur Valley State Park. When the river is low in the summer is the best time to look for  dinosaur tracks at the Dinosaur Valley .

Besides looking for dinosaur tracks, visitors enjoy hiking around here because they can get some elevation. And when the river flows and the weather gets warm, the Paluxy River becomes a favourite swimming hole.

A few yards before you enter the state park, you’ll see Dinosaur World on the left-hand side. Hundreds of life-sized dinosaurs are spread in a natural setting throughout this park – you’ll feel like you’re walking with the dinosaurs, just like in Jurassic Park . Families with little children will love it. You can bring a picnic lunch, and dogs are welcome, too.

Another place that’s worth a stop is Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. It offers ecotourism to visitors via guided tours or drive-your-own vehicles. You’ll get a chance to feed giraffes from inside your car. Isn’t that cool?

When it’s time to eat, head out to Loco Coyote Grill. Try their delicious monster burgers, BBQ or chicken fried steak with an order of onion rings for the side. It’s open from Thursday to Sunday and dog-friendly.

If you like Mexican food, go to Mama Mia – their poblano rice is to die for.

Recommended by Umiko of Two Worlds Treasures

4. Grapevine

Grapevine’s downtown is loaded with shops, wine-tasting rooms and restaurants, and you can even hop aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad for a short excursion. 

The town is an easy day trip from Dallas and is popular with visitors from all around. Grapevine is just 27 miles, or a half-hour drive, from downtown Dallas. It also makes a good stopover for airport travellers with time on their hands as it’s just a 10-minute shuttle ride from Dallas-Fort Worth Airport. 

There are lots of fun things to do in Grapevine . The Settlement to City Museums is a complex of historical museums that includes two 19th-century pioneer homes and a school house. Several model train exhibits are located in town. And a favourite spot with children is Nash Farm, a sort of living museum that displays and re-enacts life on a late 19th-century farm. 

The incredible Meow Wolf has also opened in Grapevine. Meow Wolf is an immersive, interactive art venue that’s a lot of fun – and very Instagrammable!

Among the many restaurants, Esparza’s Restaurante Mexicano is a favourite. Situated in a renovated 1800s house, it’s well-known for its Tex Mex cuisine (don’t miss the deep-fried stuffed avocado) and margaritas. Old-school Italian classics and wine flights are a specialty at Farina’s Winery & Café.

One of the best times to visit Grapevine is Christmas. The town is the official Christmas Capitol of Texas and schedules more than 1,400 events over 40-plus days. Festivities happen all around the town. 

Recommended by Carole of Travels with Carole

5. Jefferson

Jefferson is an ideal day trip from Dallas. Just under 3 hours from Dallas, it offers both historic attractions and nearby natural wonders.

It’s a small town where it’s easy to talk to the locals and see everything in a day. To begin, take a historical tour in a vintage red bus. It will take you to the highlights of the town, such as the magnificent Kennedy Manor Bed & Breakfast and the traditional buildings of the town centre.

Jefferson was founded prior to the Civil War, so its history stretches far back. Named after the USA’s third president, you can learn more about the city’s history at the Jefferson Historic Museum.

After a great tour, enjoy lunch at Jefferson’s epic McGarity’s Restaurant & Saloon. It’s an institution in town, with kitchen decor and everyday objects hanging from the ceiling. The menu is classic and varied, from pastas to steaks, fish and herbivore dishes. If it’s full, head next door to the Haywood House Restaurant, with its vintage decor.

If the weather’s nice and you’d rather explore the surrounding countryside, you’ll find two beautiful lakes: Lake O’ the Pines, a 15-minute drive west of Jefferson, and Caddo Lake and its incredible Wildlife Refuge, a 20-minute drive east of Jefferson.

All of these options make Jefferson one of the best road trips from Dallas.

Recommended by Soline of On the Road Diary

6. Mineral Wells

Mineral Wells is a surprising haven of cultural, historical and outdoor opportunities, located under an hour and a half from Dallas. This makes Mineral Wells an ideal Dallas day trip, with a small-town vibe and plenty of places to unwind away from the big city.

Mineral Wells is a mecca for outdoor recreationists. There’s the Brazos River, with plenty of fishing and boating opportunities. The Lake Mineral Wells State Trailway is a 20-mile-long multi-use path perfect for runners, walkers, and bikers. Enjoy the botanical Clark Gardens, or conquer some challenging mountain biking at Texas Frontier Trails.

Finally, there’s beautiful Lake Mineral Wells State Park, one of the  top 8 state parks near Dallas , with its namesake lake, miles of trails and campgrounds. The highlight of the park is the ominously named Penitentiary Hollow, filled with craggy canyons and cliffs that’s home to some of the best rock climbing in Texas.  

Downtown Mineral Wells is lined with small shops and historic icons like the Baker Hotel.  Downtown also hosts several yearly events, including the annual Crazy Water Festival, now in its 44th year.

When it comes to historical roots, there are several places of interest, including the Fort Wolters Historical Park and the National Vietnam War Museum.  

After all those outdoor activities you’ll need to fuel up. The best local German food can be found at Jamie’s German Restaurant, or go for traditional Texas BBQ at Natty Flat Smokehouse.  

Mineral Wells is an ideal year-round day trip from Dallas, but if outdoor recreation is on your list, the best seasons to visit are fall and spring, in order to avoid the more extreme temperatures.

Recommended by Kristen at Yonderlust Ramblings

Tyler is the perfect choice for a day trip from Dallas. In just an hour and a half, you’ll be transported to the Piney Woods of East Texas – a refreshing change of scenery!

Tyler is known as the Rose Capital of the World, so you’ll definitely want to visit the Tyler Rose Garden. One of the city’s biggest celebrations is the annual Rose Festival. Held in October, this is a great time to visit. And don’t miss the Azalea and Spring Flower Trail, held from the end of March through the beginning of April.

Even if you’re not a big fan of flowers, there are plenty of fun things to do in Tyler. History buffs will enjoy stepping back in time at the Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum. If you’re interested in the arts, visit the Tyler Art Museum, featuring works by Texas artists. 

Visiting with kids? Check out the interactive science exhibits at the Discovery Science Place.

For lunch, sink your teeth into smoky brisket or ribs at Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue. Enjoy hearty Tex-Mex fare at Mercado’s – the fajitas are fantastic, and don’t forget to grab your free soft-serve ice cream cone on your way out! Or, for lighter fare, enjoy salads and sandwiches at the Potpourri House, a local favourite.

Recommended by Lisa Garrett of  Travel to Lyon

For a wonderful day trip from Dallas, check out the sweet town of Waco, Texas. Located just 1.5 hours from Dallas, Waco offers outdoor adventures, historic architecture, and  several fun things to do . 

Head downtown to visit the Dr. Pepper Museum to experience hands-on activities with plenty of taste testing allowed! For gorgeous views of the skyline, take a stroll across the Waco Suspension Bridge.

Waco’s National Mammoth Monument allows visitors to experience a real archaeological site with prehistoric animals, including the remains of 24 Columbian mammoths. For more history and science, walk the beautiful Baylor University campus and visit the Mayborn Museum featuring several exhibits that vary from geology to space technology.

Feel like getting more active? Try your hand at surfing at Waco Surf. The wave park – 200 miles from the ocean! – has waves for everyone from beginners to advanced surfers.

Waco’s most popular place to visit is undoubtedly Magnolia at the Silos, featuring Chip and Joanna Gaines’ beautiful shops filled with treasures. You’ll also find seasonal events, a great outdoor lawn space with a wiffle ball field and food trucks, and of course, their delicious bakery cupcakes. True fans will want to take a tour of their renovated homes or even visit their castle.

Next to Magnolia Market is Union Hall, an indoor food hall with several delicious restaurants to choose from. For southwestern fare with a river view, check out Café Homestead and don’t skip the peach cobbler!

Spring and fall are wonderful times to visit Waco, not only for the fantastic weather, but also for the festivals that take place throughout the seasons. The Texas Food Truck Showdown, Homestead Fair, Annual Rodeo and Silobration are filled with tasty food, live entertainment and local culture.

Recommended by Sierra of Very Truly Texas

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

What are your favourite Dallas day trips?

Related posts

Looking for more Dallas and Texas travel inspiration? You might like these articles…

• How to spend the perfect weekend in Dallas
• The best brunch in Dallas
• Dallas date night: The most romantic restaurants
• The best places to visit in Texas
• What to do on a West Texas road trip
• How to go tubing in New Braunfels, Texas

USA TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book flights to and around the USA online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find a great hotel in the USA. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout the USA on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to the USA will be handy.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

PIN IT FOR LATER: DAY TRIPS FROM DALLAS

Save this guide to the best day trips from Dallas to Pinterest for later.

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

MORE INFORMATION

ABOUT WORK WITH ME CONTACT PUBLISHED WORK

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

AS AN AMAZON ASSOCIATE I EARN FROM QUALIFYING PURCHASES

© 2024 REBECCA AND THE WORLD

Privacy Policy

I ACKNOWLEDGE THE WURUNDJERI AND BOON WURRUNG PEOPLE OF THE KULIN NATION AS THE TRADITIONAL OWNERS OF THE LANDS AND WATERWAYS OF THE AREA I LIVE ON. I PAY MY RESPECTS TO ELDERS PAST AND PRESENT AND CELEBRATE THE STORIES, CULTURE AND TRADITIONS OF ALL ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLE ACROSS AUSTRALIA.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Texas Chevron

Dallas Chevron

3 Best Day Trips From Dallas

A visit to Dallas is likely to involve a lot of driving even if you never leave the city limits. But if you're willing to hoof it in the car for just a little bit longer, there's much to see outside the city, too. We did the on-the-ground research for you and have selected our picks for the best plan of attack less than two hours outside Dallas—and we’d go so far as to say that to consider yourself a Texan at all, a visit to each of these destinations is necessary. Read on for our favorite day trips from Dallas, to Frisco, Waco, and Fort Worth, for when you're ready to spend a day away.

Click the link to read our complete Dallas guide .

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There’s really not much to say about Waco without establishing one overarching theme first—it ain’t what it used to be. Everyone, regardless of any aversion to “touristy things,” need not resist the urge to see the empire Joanna and Chip Gaines have created because chances are, it's everything they hope for. The city is warm and welcoming like Jo, and quirky and fun like Chip. If you're looking for hints of “the old Waco” pre- Fixer Upper, spend time walking through Baylor University on a crisp afternoon, or head downtown for antiques and a coffee pick-me-up. At the end of the day, a trip to “The Heart of Texas” is a lot more fun than binge watching HGTV.

Magnolia Market at the Silos Arrow

Magnolia Market is a one-stop home-décor shop. There's good news for Fixer Upper fans: It's safe to assume owners Chip and Joanna Gaines have given each piece their stamp of approval. The store itself is wonderful, but Magnolia Market at the Silos' real draw is the sense of nostalgia and community. At the very least, make sure you pick up a seasonal candle to bring a little bit of the Magnolia Market home with you.

Czech Stop Arrow

This is a bustling bakery inside of a Shell station about 20 miles north of Waco. If you're road tripping you'll be stopping for gas at some point, so you should make sure to do it here, where you can also fill up on kolaches, cinnamon rolls, jalapeño poppers, and pepperoni puffs. Though there's often a line, the delectable baked goods behind the counter are enticing enough to make it worth the wait.

Balcones Distilling Arrow

Balcones is the most famous name in Texas whisky—its single malts have a dedicated following all over the United States. Visiting the distillery itself is a real treat. It is located inside the former Texas Fireproof Storage Co. building in downtown Waco, and the 90 minute tour offers a great survey of the whisky making process. You'll see the whole space from the grain silos to the Scottish stills, and, of course, finish up with a tasting of the distillery's various offerings.

Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits Arrow

This place makes for a fun first stop during a day trip to Waco, when you still need a bit of caffeine to kick-start the day, or an early evening happy hour before hitting the road. Here, cocktails are queen. Whatever you want, they've got it—and they've got a witty name for it, too. Creative concoctions, which are strong, but not too strong, include the Hammer of the Gods, and the Coffee Julep.

Magnolia House Arrow

The Magnolia House is a lovely Victorian spot located on an unassuming corner in McGregor, a small town 20 minutes outside Waco. It was lovingly restored by people who really know what they're doing: Chip and Joanna Gaines of Fixer Upper fame. You get the whole house to yourself, including one of Joanna's famous redesigned kitchens. It's also got six bedrooms, so, plenty of room for the whole family. As a bonus: It was even featured on an episode of Fixer Upper.

Want to know a surefire way to show a local you're not from Dallas? Talk about it and its neighbor to the West as if they are one and the same. Because the truth? They could not be more different. The folks of Fort Worth have a calm confidence about them that is totally Texan, and everywhere you turn there's an innovative new restaurant, a riveting new museum, or a darling local boutique. While the two cities tend to be friendly rivals regarding who sits higher in terms of Lone Star State superiority, most Texans are quite proud to claim both.

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth Arrow

The Modern Art Museum of Forth Worth offers a first-rate art experience without the crowds of people you might find in New York City or even Dallas. It's rather incredible how many residents have yet to make it here to see the sculptures, prints, and photographs on display. The atmosphere makes for a very zen art experience. Whether you have 30 minutes or three days, even experiencing just a slice of the museum can be memorable and worthwhile.

Heim BBQ & Catering Arrow

What started as a college hobby for pit master Travis Heim has turned into Fort Worth's coolest barbecue destination, a feat in a place with so much good barbecue. Heim and his wife Emma, who are co-owners, have worked hard to bring a solid barbecue establishment to the city's ultra-hip Magnolia Avenue, and their willingness to learn from Texas barbecue legends has only made the restaurant that much better. Your trip must include an order of the bacon burnt ends—cubed chunks of pork belly coated in a secret smoky-and-sweet spice mixture.

Billy Bob's Texas Arrow

Every adult in North Texas has a story that begins, "So one night at Billy Bob's..." for good reason: This place, which has been dubbed the largest honky tonk in the world, has more than a dozen bars and hosts some of the most famous country musicians around. It's a little rough around the edges—pleasantly so. But more than anything, this is the experience a new tourist imagines when they think of Texas: slide guitars, cheap beer, and a mechanical bull. 

Joe T. Garcia's Arrow

This Forth Worth institution has probably had a long line since it opened in 1935. One major difference since the beginning: Back in the day, it seated a humble 16 people; now, it can host more than 1,000. There is no dinner menu, but you really only need to know about two things: their fajitas, and what they call a "family dinner," which includes cheese enchiladas, beef tacos, a cheese nacho, guacamole, rice, and beans.

M.L. Leddy's Arrow

M.L. Leddy's is a fourth-generation family business that sells luxurious western wear. But really, it's all about the boots—custom boots. If you can dream it, they can make it (in three to four months, at the San Angelo location). Boots off the rack will probably satisfy tourists, but if you're here for the real deal, it's all about a custom pair that can be made of anything from giraffe to stingray.

The Ashton Arrow

Soul seeps through all 39 of the well-appointed guest rooms in this beautiful boutique hotel housed in a renovated building on the National Register of Historic Places. It's located next to Sundance Square—a welcome change of pace, especially when compared with the wedding parties and convention crews that compose the guest roster at the Omni . It's one of the few boutique options in Fort Worth, and from the lobby to the rooms, the feel is a throwback that echoes the 1915 date the building went up.

Frisco is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States and just a 30-minute drive from downtown Dallas. But up until the early 2000s, it was mostly farmland. Now, fields filled with hay bales coexist alongside shopping centers that appeared seemingly overnight. A multi-million dollar practice facility for “America’s Team” has led to an influx of new restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment possibilities, while, in historic Frisco, you still get that small-town Texas feel. 

Flea Style and Heirloom Haul Arrow

Flea Style (the shop) and Heirloom Haul (the café) share the same space and bring an old-soul vibe to the shiny new complex that is The Star. Drop by anytime and there’s a good chance you’ll find the owner Brittany Cobb, a former lifestyle editor, working behind the counter, helping style customers, or shopping herself. In the shop you'll find one-of-a-kind items—think vintage kimonos, thrifted Levi’s, handmade pillows, and coconut wax candles in upcycled vessels. On the café side, the eye candy is just as good. A restored ’60s camper (nicknamed Stevie Nicks), floor-to-ceiling gallery wall, and globe chandeliers serve as a backdrop to fast-casual Southern food. Go all out and order the afternoon tea service, delivered via—what else?—an antique cart.

The Heritage Table Arrow

The Heritage Table has manages to both be ahead of its time—it became one of the first fine dining experiences in Frisco when it opened in 2017—and an homage to a bygone era with its back-to-basics culinary approach. For the first two courses, you’ll be asked to pick between farm versus ranch and sea versus land (unless you’re lucky enough to have more than two in your party, then do yourself a favor and get one of each). The ingredients are accompanied by a thorough explanation of their origins—the Lone Star State features heavily—and the freshness is apparent from the first bite. Choose seafood and you'll end up with Texas-sized shrimp, blackened redfish from the Gulf of Mexico, and a crawfish pot pie served in a miniature cast-iron skillet that stole our hearts. 

Karmic Grounds Arrow

There’s a clear sense of community here; it’s the kind of place where the Wi-Fi isn’t password protected. It's also the kind of place where you can order what you want from the espresso machine without fear of being judged. Want a white rose iced mocha? No problem, and no one will think you're “extra.” The house pour hits the spot (and comes with a free refill), but if you’re looking for something special, see the seasonal drinks menu. 

The Star in Frisco Arrow

Only in Texas would a 91-acre football-practice facility become a landmark. But the Dallas Cowboys have essentially done just that with The Star, turning their Frisco compound into a destination. The massive indoor stadium hosts the team's practices, obviously, but also big-name musical acts, World Championship boxing matches, and high school football games. If sports aren't your thing though, this is still worth a stop. The adjacent Star District has shopping and dining options that will appeal to all. 

National Videogame Museum Arrow

The nondescript exterior of the Frisco Discovery Center is akin to, say, your local Best Buy. Inside, however, the National Videogame Museum—with its niche collection of more than 100,000 games, consoles, and rare artifacts—makes for sensory and nostalgia overload. Learn about the culture of video games while standing in an ’80s-themed living room, or stop by the mom and pop shop that contextualizes the video game crash of 1983. Finally, don’t miss the retro arcade, where you can use your complimentary tokens to attempt the high score on Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and other classics.

Texas Sculpture Garden Arrow

Spread across four acres of Hall Park, the Texas Sculpture Garden features 40 contemporary works by some of the state’s most prominent artists. When you first turn in, you might be confused by what appears to be an ordinary office complex. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place. There are three designated routes, all under two miles. If you can only do one, make it the yellow route, which takes you past ponds and fountains, through a wooded area, and to Joe Barrington’s sculpture “The Headlines Screamed, Bait House Disappears.” Rising up out of the water, a giant metallic fish clutches a brown fishing shack in its jaws. It’s more comical than menacing, and Barrington encourages the viewer to dream up their own version of events that led to the scene and “walk away with a smile.”

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Genius tips, tricks & beautiful things, straight to your inbox every day.

© 2010-2021 Wow Media Products, Inc doing business as PureWow. All rights reserved.

5 Road Trips Under 3 Hours from Dallas You Can Take This Weekend

As much as we all love our weeklong beach trips, sometimes we just don’t have that kind of free time. Lucky for Dallasites, we’re only a short drive away from tons of awesome places that feel as if they’re on a different continent. Here are our five favorite weekend getaways you can escape to in three hours or less

Absolutely Everything to Do in Dallas from Now Until Summer

Mckinney (51 Minutes)

This picturesque town northeast of Dallas is  juuuust  far enough out there that it totally counts as a vacation. Check into the  Grand Hotel  and then stroll down to dinner and drinks at  Harvest . In the morning, grab a cup of coffee at  Snug on the Square  before spending the morning bopping in and out of all the adorable boutiques. If there is no traffic on 75, you just might be able to make it home in half an hour.

Waco (1 Hour, 29 Minutes)

Two words:  Chip and Joanna . Yep, embrace the  Fixer Upper  addict in you by shopping at  Magnolia Market  at the Silos. Post retail therapy, fuel up with a banana-Nutella crepe at  Co-Town Crepes  (they even have gluten-free options) or a bacon, Gouda and basil grilled cheese from  Cheddar Box . And if you plan ahead, you just might score a room at  The Magnolia House . If you have to ask what that is, you don’t watch enough  Fixer Upper.

Tyler (1 Hour, 32 Minutes)

Nicknamed the “Rose Capital of the World,” this is an ideal place to frolic if you fancy the flower. Check into a bungalow at High Hill Farm , where you can relax by the pool before dinner at their restaurant, Côte. A wine tour at Kiepersol Estates is also never a bad idea when in East Texas. Regardless of how you plan to spend your time here, don’t forget to load up with rose bushes on your way home.

Muenster (1 Hour, 41 Minutes)

The Red River Valley is now home to  4R Ranch Vineyards , maker of some of the most delicious Cabs in Texas that you don’t have to drive to Hill Country to enjoy. Head to the Wind Shed tasting room and deck ASAP. Make a weekend out of it by staying at  Elm Creek Manor , a beloved bed-and-breakfast serving up all the meats, vegetables, fruits, eggs, honey and milk produced on its 14 acres.  Mmm .

Possum Kingdom (2 Hours, 44 Minutes)

For those looking for a water-centered escape, PK might be your new BFF. Rent a cabin by the lake and plan to spend your days boating and your evenings in a rocking chair soaking up some unmatched Texas sunsets. Red Bull also holds a killer cliff-diving competition at Hell’s Gate—but don’t worry, it’s just as fun to watch as it is to cliff dive (probably).

The 50 Most Popular Baby Names in the State of Texas

Dallas Editor

• Campus Life

Logins Student Faculty/Staff

Library Campus News Visit DBU Confirm Enrollment

• Patriot Perspectives Blog

7 Weekend Getaways for Dallas College Students

• College Advice , On-Campus Living , Student Life

"The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." - Proverbs 16:9 (ESV)

As a college student at Dallas Baptist University, our core values mean your commitment to the Lord, your studies, and your community come first. But it's nice to step away from routines every so often to recharge, explore, and have fun! Taking a short trip from Dallas with a group of friends can be an opportunity to experience new places and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Campus life can leave you eager for exciting new adventures or relaxing, calm getaways. These trips are all within a few hours of Dallas, making them the perfect college student travel ideas for a quick weekend away.

Weekend Trips from Dallas

Houston, tx.

Experience a different big city, just a three-and-a-half hour drive from Dallas. A weekend getaway to Houston is perfect for a group of friends who might be looking for a variety of activities. Science and history enthusiasts can visit Johnson Space Center , beachgoers can head to Galveston, and everyone else will enjoy the diverse art and food scene.

While you're in Houston, make sure to visit the Dunham Bible Museum at Houston Christian University. You can see one of the best collections of Bibles in the world, including ancient manuscripts, examples of the earliest Bibles printed in various countries, and even the Bible taken to the moon in 1971.

Just an hour-and-a-half drive from DBU is the City of Waco, a small, lively town with numerous activities perfect for college students. Among the many things to do here are mountain biking, hiking, strolling through downtown, and exploring the city's vibrant cultural and historical district. You can also book an art or river tour , enjoy one of the many live music performances throughout the year, or learn about the area's fascinating history at one of its museums  — it truly makes for an excellent weekend getaway with friends. 

San Antonio, TX

About four hours from Dallas, San Antonio is one of the most popular tourist spots in Texas. There's something for everyone here: shopping and good food, strolling along the Riverwalk, and many fascinating and beautiful museums.

The Alamo is one of the biggest attractions in San Antonio. Visiting this monument will give you an immersive experience full of Texas and United States history. There are live reenactments, historical buildings, and several different models of important battles. If you'd like to visit the Alamo Church (and we suggest that you do!), you'll need reservations ahead of time. Be sure to save time to view the Sacristy Exhibit, too!

Hot Springs, AR

A weekend trip to Hot Springs in Arkansas is a great combination of city and nature life for any group of college students. The national park's hot springs flow into bathhouses located in the downtown area — you can experience the relaxing natural beauty of the state and then head to a fun dinner reservation down the street. Take a fun bicycle tour of the city or hop on board the duck boats to see things from the road and the water. The town's activities page has ideas for all ages and interests, so you won't spend a minute feeling bored.

Austin is a music-lover's paradise — with musicians playing everywhere, from grocery stores to downtown to clubs, coffee shops, restaurants, and everything in between. This vibrant city located about a three-hour drive from DBU also has plenty to offer for outdoor enthusiasts , with a wide array of outdoor playgrounds, particularly in Hill County, that run the gamut — from rugged terrain to rolling hills, as well as tons of trails, parks, and swimming holes. And, of course, Austin's food scene, shopping, and entertainment districts are just the thing for a fun night out on the town. 

Colorado Bend State Park, TX

If you're looking for travel ideas that lead you further away from city life, head to this beautiful state park only three-and-a-half hours from Dallas. There's plenty to do here for a whole weekend getaway if you want to camp overnight, and you can easily make it a day trip as well. There are more than 35 miles of trails for hikes, or you can try your hand fishing for bass in the waterways. Book a cave exploration tour for some of the most spectacular sights in the state.

A two-hour drive to Davis, Oklahoma, is another ideal weekend trip that helps you get out of the city to enjoy God's natural creations. Visit Turner Falls Park to see the state's tallest waterfall at just over 77 feet. You can even stay overnight in a modern-day covered wagon . The next day, head to Arbuckle Wilderness for a drive-through safari adventure complete with camels, zebras, yaks, and more.

Whether you travel to another big city or head out of town to enjoy the wilderness, taking time to explore and have some fun helps you to recharge and prepare for your time back in the classroom. 

Explore More

Test prep for the best SAT and ACT scores is easy when you make a plan and learn how to avoid the most common mistakes.

While it can be hard to balance spiritual life and academic life, here are 10 simple ideas for how you can experience holistic growth in college.

College expenses can add up quickly. Students can follow these tips to save money on clothing and other essentials.

Weekend Event Planner

These are the 9 best things to do in dallas this labor day weekend.

The weekend before Labor Day is a little slower than normal for events in and around Dallas, but there are still some fun things to do and see. They include a great comedian, a Harry Potter film backed by a live symphony, a music festival, a concert featuring a hot country duo, two local theater productions, a dinosaur exhibition, a big plant conference, and a violinist who plays way more than classical music.

Below are the best ways to spend your free time this weekend. Want more options? Lucky for you, we have a much longer list of the city's best events.

Thursday, August 29

Addison Improv presents Maria Bamford Maria Bamford is revered for her deeply personal and experimental comedy about mental illness. She starred in the Netflix series, Lady Dynamite , about a comedian who suffers a nervous breakdown, and is the star of three unconventional hour-long stand-up specials. She also created and starred in the cult hit web series, The Maria Bamford Show , in which she plays all the characters. She'll perform the second of a two-night stay at The Addison Improv.

Dallas Symphony Orchestra presents Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in Concert Harry Potter is having a moment in Dallas. The Triwizard Tournament comes to Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in Concert. Audiences can relive the magic of Potter soaring across the big screen in high-definition and experience the music of a live symphony orchestra performing Patrick Doyle’s score. There will be four performances through Sunday at the Meyerson Symphony Center.

Friday, August 30

The Black Academy of Arts and Letters presents 7th Riverfront Jazz Festival The 7th Annual Riverfront Jazz Festival will feature a lineup of performers spanning the gamut from jazz to pop, soul, R&B, blues, and neo-soul music. Performers on the two main stages will include CeeLo Green, Jeffrey Osborne, Cassandra Wilson, Ginuwine, Sheila E., Ruben Studdard, Patrice Rushen, and more. There will also be a stage featuring promising young artists. The festival will take place through Sunday at The Black Academy of Arts and Letters.

Dan + Shay in concert Since their debut album came out in 2014, country duo Dan + Shay have been consistent chart toppers with both their albums and songs. All five of their albums made it to the top 10 on the Billboard Country chart, and among their many top 10 hits have been three that went to No. 1, most recently "Speechless" in 2018. After recently serving as coaches on NBC's The Voice , they'll play at Dos Equis Pavilion, joined by Jake Owen and Dylan Marlowe.

North Texas Performing Arts presents The Mystery of Edwin Drood Based on Charles Dickens’ final unfinished novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood is a hilarious whodunit that invites the audience to solve its mystery by choosing the identity of the murderer. The tale is presented as a show-within-a-show, as the Music Hall Royale, a loony Victorian theatre company, presents Dickens’ brooding mystery. The production runs through September 7 at Courtyard Theater in Plano.

Richardson Theatre Centre presents Nobody's Perfect Harriet is a feminist publisher with a penchant for unsuitable men friends. Leonard is a stuttering statistician whose wife has walked out on him. Their lives become intertwined when Leonard submits his manuscript to Harriet's publishing house under the nom de plume of Myrtle Banbury. She offers Myrtle £15,000 to publish the book, and in order to get his hands on the cash Leonard has to keep up the pretense of being a woman. The stage is thus set for a series of comic encounters and misunderstandings. The production runs through September 15 at Richardson Theatre Centre.

Saturday, August 31

Dan + Shay will play at Dos Equis Pavilion on August 30.

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary presents Dinosaurs Live! opening day Dinosaurs Live! is an annual exhibit that brings the ancient creatures back to life, allowing visitors to travel back in time along a half-mile nature trail with 10 life-size animatronic dinosaurs. The exhibit offers interesting facts about both herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaurs, and children can play on stationary baby dinosaurs or participate in an outdoor fossil dig. The exhibition will remain on display at Heard Natural Science Museum in McKinney through February 19, 2025.

PlantCon International Dallas PlantCon Dallas is an all-inclusive plant experience where visitors can experience workshops, presentations, community building, and more. Guests can purchase products from internationally known plant exhibitors, and partake in workshops from field experts from around the globe. The event takes place through Sunday at Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel & Convention Center.

AT&T Performing Arts Center presents Omari Dillard: Soul Violinist Classically trained and culturally inspired, Omari Dillard has over 30 years experience making the violin "speak," covering artists like Prince, Mary J. Blige, Luther Vandross, SWV, Lauryn Hill, Maxwell, and more. The soul violinist will play at Wyly Theatre in support of his new album, Sincerely, Omari .

Movie Review

North texas little league team swings for fences in you gotta believe.

Making an inspiring sports movie is not a complicated formula. There are plenty of examples of teams, professional or not, that have overcome the odds to achieve success, either on the field of play or in life in general. While some tweaking is natural to create a little extra drama, usually filmmakers just need to do a decent recreation of real events and the story takes care of itself.

That ability would seem to be beyond the scope of director Ty Roberts and writer Lane Garrison, who have attempted to tell two Fort Worth-centric stories in a row: 2021’s 12 Mighty Orphans and now You Gotta Believe . This one is about the 2002 Westside Little League team that captured the country’s attention by making an improbable run to the Little League World Series, the first time a Fort Worth team had made it that far since 1960.

As the film tells it, the team was one of the worst in the league but was chosen to compete in the postseason tournament for financial reasons. The team was led by coaches Bobby Ratliff (Luke Wilson) and Jon Kelly (Greg Kinnear), both of which had sons on the team. When Bobby is diagnosed with melanoma, the team dedicates their run to him, and somehow starts playing better than they’ve ever played before.

The story gives off the vibes of past youth-centered baseball movies, especially The Sandlot , which the filmmakers try to capitalize on by casting that film’s Patrick Renna (aka Ham) in a small role. Among the players are a geeky know-it-all, a preening guy who cares more about looking good than playing well, and a star whose life doesn’t always allow him to play for the team. Unfortunately, the film doesn’t have the same charm as similar films and spends much less time letting the players shine than you might think.

Instead, the stories of the coaches are given equal, if not more, attention to anything the players are doing on the field. In the case of Bobby, that’s understandable, especially since his illness served as an inspiration for the team. But the level of detail Roberts and Garrison give to his treatment (and, for some reason, Jon’s unhappiness in his own work) is odd. Even worse, they don’t do an effective job at creating the emotional drama such an experience should generate.

Things don’t get much better when they do turn to the baseball action. The editing of the games/practices is heavy, to the point that it’s unclear if any of the kid actors can actually play or not. But the worst sin is that the filmmakers fail to convey the excitement of what the team was accomplishing. Only the final game of their run has any momentum to it at all, which the filmmakers try to sabotage by inserting a moment that insults the intelligence of any baseball fan.

Wilson (who also starred in 12 Mighty Orphans ) and Kinnear remain solid screen presences, making the film watchable even when the story being told is not. Sarah Gadon and Molly Parker play their wives, and they too are interesting to watch. The child actors have varying levels of experience, and although none of them stand out, neither do they take away from the film.

You Gotta Believe should have been a great showcase for Fort Worth (although only certain scenes were actually filmed there) and the team that did the city proud over 20 years ago. Instead, it’s an ineffectual sports movie that doesn’t do them justice, a real shame given the heart that the real story has.

You Gotta Believe is now playing in theaters. Check out red-carpet photos from the film's world premiere in Fort Worth here .