day trips in texas for couples

Protect Your Trip »

20 most romantic getaways in texas.

From city to spa, find the perfect couples retreat in the Lone Star State.

Romantic Getaways in Texas

Courtesy of Skybox Cabins

Skybox Cabins' unique treehouse residences are just one idyllic option for a romantic getaway in Texas.

Texas offers something for every duo, whether you want to reconnect over dinner in a chic city restaurant or disconnect from the rest of the world in a remote cabin. To help you and your partner choose a romantic getaway in Texas, we've highlighted some of the best big cities, quiet locales and luxurious hotels throughout the Lone Star State. Pack your bags and grab your honey; it's time to take a much-needed break together.

The Most Romantic Getaways in Texas

• Sinya at Lone Man Creek
• Skybox Cabins
• Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District
• BlissWood Bed and Breakfast Ranch
• Sage Hill Inn & Spa

San Antonio

• Mokara Hotel & Spa

Fredericksburg

• The Granbury Cabins at Windy Ridge

Dripping Springs

• Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Corpus christi, new braunfels.

• The Tremont House

Marble Falls

Sinya at lone man creek: wimberley.

Courtesy of Sinya on Lone Man Creek

It doesn't get much more romantic than Sinya at Lone Man Creek. One of the best places for glamping in Texas , this secluded property accommodates just one duo at a time. Inside the glamping accommodations, couples will find luxurious amenities including a king-sized bed with a goose-down comforter and pillows, a clawfoot tub, Turkish cotton towels, spa bathrobes, and a kitchenette with a Nespresso coffee maker. Outside, you can sway in a hammock, traverse a rock path to a waterfall, soak in a hot tub beneath the stars and more.

For the ultimate romantic escape, book the all-inclusive Sinya Exclusive Couples Retreat, which includes two nights' accommodations; a 90-minute massage for you and your partner; a 90-minute bonding session with a therapist; and three farm-to-table meals.

Sinya at Lone Man Creek is located in Texas Hill Country, which means that when (or if) you decide to leave your lodging, you can visit local wineries , breweries and distilleries among more stunning scenery. The Square in Wimberley is also worth a visit, with two glass studios, art galleries, restaurants and shops.

Address: 428 Deer Lake Estates, Wimberley, TX 78676

Skybox Cabins: Glen Rose

Skybox Cabins offers an ideal retreat for you and your special someone, and previous guests praise the cabins' location and views. The cabins are nestled in a forest within a 50-acre property in Glen Rose, which sits about 55 miles southwest of Fort Worth. Along with the enchanting setting, Skybox Cabins does not permit guests younger than 18 in an effort to preserve a relaxing environment for its lodgers.

Couples can select one of five residences for their stay. Four of the accommodations are cabins, each with their own unique design and theme. No matter which you choose, you'll find comfortable beds, interior and exterior seating, and kitchenettes. The other option, a glamping experience, provides slightly more rustic amenities in a bell tent; you'll still enjoy modern conveniences like air conditioning, heat and electricity, with showers and a kitchenette provided in a detached building.

From Skybox, you can drive less than 10 miles to Glen Rose's town center and walk its streets to see historic buildings and a few museums, such as Barnard's Mill and Art Museum. For a special treat, arrange for a private tour of the museum on a weekday. Looking to stay more active? Head to Dinosaur Valley State Park to literally walk in a dinosaur's footsteps, take a hike or attend a ranger event like a "Star Party." If you and your partner would rather spend a day on the water, visit Wheeler Branch Reservoir and its neighboring park for fishing or kayaking.

Address: 1767 County Road 1011, Glen Rose, TX 76043

Getty Images

The self-proclaimed "Live Music Capital of the World" has more than 250 venues that offer every kind of music, from country to blues to jazz. After spending your evenings listening to music and dancing the night away, stroll hand in hand through Zilker Metropolitan Park's botanical garden or take a swim in the 3-acre Barton Springs Pool. Partners who wish to learn more about Texas history will enjoy perusing the exhibits at the Bullock Texas State History Museum.

Austin is also a dream for foodies. For a special evening, try Lenoir, which sources its food from local producers and has an ever-changing seasonal menu; Olamaie, a Southern-inspired restaurant; or Jeffrey's, which serves a number of seafood and steak options. Take time to peruse the city's craft beer scene by sampling a pint or two from Lazarus Brewing Company or taking a short drive out to Vista Brewing for a side of ranch views with your draught. If you're short on time, take advantage of an Austin food tour or brewery tour with expertise from a local.

Where to stay: One of the best hotels in Austin , The Driskill is a longtime favorite thanks to its incomparable service and luxurious accommodations. It's also an architecturally beautiful and historic property, so even if you don't stay here, it's a must-see in Austin.

Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District: Houston

Courtesy of Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District

While Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District offers traditional guest rooms with crisp white linens and dark furnishings, the main draw to this hotel, especially for couples, is its suites. The Magnificent Seven Suites are massive – they range from roughly 900 to 2,200 square feet – and each is decorated in its own style, such as the Italy-inspired Bella Vita. Then there are the unique Concept Suites, each of which has a different offbeat theme. Take to the stars by staying in the space-themed Houston We Have a Problem suite, or revisit Deborah Kerr and Cary Grant's romance in the An Affair to Remember suite. Though previous visitors admit the suites can seem a little kitschy, they rave about the well-appointed, comfortable rooms.

Outside your digs, you'll find even more of the hotel's signature style. The ZaSpa seeks to give transformative treatments that will leave you and your partner feeling rejuvenated. Its Romance Ritual includes a foot soak, a salt scrub, a body wrap, and scalp and body massages for both you and your honey. After you've been pampered, relax by the pool before dining on the terrace at Monarch Restaurant & Lounge. Be sure to wander the hotel before checkout to peruse its unique collection of art sourced from creators all over the world.

What's more, there are a bevy of local attractions for you and your partner to explore just outside the hotel's door. Houston's hip Museum District surrounds the property, and Hermann Park is situated across the street. When you're ready to explore the local food scene, sign up for a Houston food tour to get acquainted with the city's best offerings. You'll also want to save one day of your Houston itinerary for a day trip south to Galveston , where beachfront strolls await.

Address: 5701 Main St., Houston, TX 77005

Big Bend is every outdoors-loving couple's dream. Located in West Texas along the U.S.-Mexico border, the area boasts more than 1 million acres of protected land across both Big Bend Ranch State Park and Big Bend National Park. No matter which park you explore, you'll be treated to magnificent scenery at every turn. Mountains and cliffs rise above the Chihuahuan Desert landscape, while the Rio Grande winds through numerous canyons.

At the state park, there are nearly 250 miles of trails where you and your partner can hike, bike and see who can spot the most wildlife. More than 300 different species of birds frequent the park, and a variety of other animals like kangaroo rats, coyotes and bats (16 species!) reside here. At the national park, fill up your gas tank and hop on the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, which passes the park's famed geologic features, including Tuff Canyon and Santa Elena Canyon. If you'd rather see the rock formations up close, schedule a tour via kayak or raft on the Rio Grande. Meanwhile, nature lovers will enjoy the Dagger Flat Auto Trail, a dirt road that winds through a forest of giant dagger yucca plants.

Be sure to stick around Big Bend after the sun sets. Both parks are International Dark Sky Parks , meaning there is little light pollution to interfere with your stargazing. Each night of your stay can involve you and your better half relaxing beneath the blanket of stars. Additionally, you'll want to make time to visit Terlingua. Once a town that the Chisos Mining Company called home, Terlingua is now a ghost town where you can explore the gravesites of miners and find a few spots for refreshments, if you so require.

Where to stay: You and your sweetie will have plenty of lodging options. Both parks offer primitive campsites, ideal for enjoying your getaway basking in the glow of a campfire outside your tent. If you'd rather not rough it, you can find numerous vacation rentals in the area or head to Lajitas Golf Resort. Nestled at the base of Big Bend Ranch State Park, Lajitas offers cozy Western-inspired accommodations, as well as a golf course and zip line tours.

BlissWood Bed and Breakfast Ranch: Cat Spring

Courtesy of Jumping Rocks

BlissWood Bed and Breakfast Ranch offers impeccable amenities and service that make it easy to connect or celebrate an anniversary. The property is located on Lehmann Legacy Ranch and sprawls across 350 acres. You're welcome to enjoy all the ranch has to offer, including trails for walking, hiking and biking; beautiful lakes; and abundant wildlife spanning horses and cattle to deer and bison. This tranquility can be found approximately 65 miles west of Houston.

Each lodging option is a private cabin or home with features to make your stay extra special. The Mystic Woods Cabin is just big enough for two and includes romantic touches like an electric fireplace, a jetted bathtub and a private outdoor hot tub. The Sunset Pond Cabin comes equipped with a fully stocked kitchen in case you want to cook for your sweetheart; it also offers a private fire pit, a hot tub and its own fishing pond – where you can cast a line for free.

If you can manage to pull yourselves away from your cozy accommodations, a plethora of activities await adventurous twosomes   on the ranch. Try your hand at knife or ax throwing, fishing, archery, or trapshooting. As you may expect, the ranch also has horses available for leisurely guided rides. (Note: Activities may require an additional fee.) BlissWood can also create a picnic for you and your partner to enjoy at your cabin or in the ranch's gazebo. For an indulgent experience, spring for one of the property's romance packages: Options include everything from guided horseback rides to couples massages to photography sessions.

Address: 13597 Frantz Road, Cat Spring, TX 78933

Sage Hill Inn & Spa: Kyle

Courtesy of Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Romantic sunsets at this property do not disappoint, with pretty views from rooms as well as the Sage Hill Inn & Spa's main porch. After watching the sunset, linger outside for a bit longer to stargaze.

The property sits atop 88 acres of land along Onion Creek in Kyle, about 25 miles southwest of Austin. You and your sweetheart can explore the area along the miles of hiking and biking trails. You'll see plenty of flora and fauna along your walks, including bluebonnets, lilies, blackbuck antelopes, birds and armadillos. One of the trails leads to an overlook from which you'll discover stunning views of the surrounding Texas Hill Country. Sage Hill provides guests with access to a pool and a hot tub, spa services like couples massages, corn hole, and a bocce court. If you and your sweetie are pickleball enthusiasts, try one of the many events or packages centered around the game at this property.

Accommodations are a mix of individual rooms, suites and stand-alone cottages, all equipped with amenities such as a fireplace and sitting area. When mealtime rolls around, there's little need to leave the property: Room rates include daily continental breakfast and a three-course dinner every night. Sage Hill sources its ingredients from local purveyors as much as possible – it even gets vegetables from its own garden – so you and your partner are guaranteed to enjoy a fresh meal.

Address: 4444 FM150 W., Kyle, TX 78640

Whether you're seeking a cheap weekend getaway or a more extensive vacation, you'll have plenty of options for daytime outings and date nights in San Antonio; the trouble will be narrowing down the list of things to do . Nature enthusiasts can enjoy an early lunch (or weekend brunch) at Jardín, the restaurant inside the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Once you've both satiated your appetites, spend the rest of the day below ground in the enchanting Natural Bridge Caverns or strolling through beloved Brackenridge Park. Food-loving duos should swing by the Pearl district, which has a burgeoning dining scene, as well as several bars and shops to check out. Those who arrive on a weekend morning should also save time for exploring the district's farmers and artisan markets.

No matter how you and your partner pass the time during the day, you should reserve at least one night for walking through downtown. San Antonio's famous River Walk, the Alamo and the San Fernando Cathedral are aglow each evening, making for a truly memorable romantic stroll.

Where to stay: San Antonio's accommodations are much like its attractions: diverse and able to suit any taste. The award-winning Hotel Emma houses cozy rooms with dark wood furniture, Frette linens, and windows overlooking the cityscape or the river. If you want something with a bit more Texan flair, consider the Omni La Mansión del Rio . This hotel on the banks of the River Walk sits within a historic Spanish colonial building.

Mokara Hotel & Spa: San Antonio

Courtesy of Mokara Hotel & Spa

Located on the banks of San Antonio's famous River Walk, Mokara Hotel & Spa demands its own visit to the city. Rooms feature romantic touches like large windows and four-poster beds made of wrought iron. In every bathroom, you'll discover a tub big enough for both you and your partner, as well as luxurious Gilchrist & Soames bath products. Upgrade to a room with a balcony for a private place to enjoy the bustle of the River Walk without rubbing elbows with other tourists.

Though the River Walk has bountiful dining options, enjoy at least one of your meals at the on-site Ostra, a AAA Four Diamond restaurant. Sip on a glass of fine wine while you savor a scrumptious seafood dinner. Alternatively, try Four Brothers for Southern foods with Latin and French flair; it also serves breakfast. If you opt to have dinner away from the hotel, stop by Mokara's Rooftop Café for pre-dinner cocktails and appetizers.

The property's Mokara Spa offers "Together" massages for couples, tailored to your individual needs, as well as host of other treatments (including facials, nail treatments and body treatments) so you and your honey can feel your best. Complement your stay at Mokara with a guided tour of San Antonio 's historical attractions or its neighboring wine country. Alternatively, get your adrenaline pumping on the rides at Six Flags Fiesta Texas .

Address: 212 W. Crockett St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Located roughly 70 miles northwest of San Antonio and about 80 miles west of Austin, Fredericksburg is a gem in the Texas Hill Country. More than 50 wineries can be found within the city itself and in the surrounding county. You and your honey can start your trip downtown: You'll find several wineries and tasting rooms spread along Main Street. Tempranillos, merlots, viogniers and roses are just a few of the tantalizing varietals you can sample.

To explore some of the surrounding area's wineries without having to drive yourself, try a guided wine tour to spend the day with a knowledgeable local or purchase a pass for the 290 Wine Shuttle. The shuttle ferries visitors to local Texas wineries, including Fat Ass Ranch & Winery, Grape Creek Vineyards (which has a downtown location as well) and Messina Hof Hill Country Winery. Travelers also recommend visiting William Chris Vineyards for its delicious wines and beautiful scenery.

Save room in your itinerary for Fredericksburg's other pursuits. History-loving twosomes will enjoy visiting the National Museum of the Pacific War or the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, which is located in nearby Stonewall. There's also the dreamy Enchanted Rock State Natural Area just north of Fredericksburg. Tonkawa tribe legends tell of the pink granite dome's power and warn of spirits that haunt the rock. Hikers say the journey to the top of this magical place is difficult but worth the effort.

Where to stay: When you're ready to turn in, you'll have plenty of inns, hotels, vacation rentals and bed-and-breakfast accommodations to choose from. Hoffman Haus wins rave reviews for its comfortable rooms, suites and stand-alone houses, as well as its delicious breakfasts. For an adults-only escape, consider the Swiss Log Cabins at Barons CreekSide, which feature fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs big enough for two.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

The Granbury Cabins at Windy Ridge: Granbury

B Family Films | Courtesy of The Granbury Cabins at Windy Ridge

Situated about 40 miles southwest of Fort Worth, The Granbury Cabins at Windy Ridge provides a secluded location perfect for couples who want to avoid the distractions of the modern age. The property's accommodations do not offer Wi-Fi access or cable TV, contributing to the cabins' off-the-grid atmosphere, which previous guests agree makes the cabins an ideal place to unwind and relax with your partner.

Each of the property's three cabins is tucked away into the surrounding forest, offering the utmost privacy and seclusion for guests. The cabins – ranging from 450 to 800 square feet – also come equipped with antique furniture, private hot tubs, fire pits, and kitchens or kitchenettes stocked with equipment. Whether you book the Hideaway, Dilly Dally or Farmhouse cabin, you'll be able to experience this rustic retreat from the comfort of a front porch or other outdoor spaces.

Outside your cabin, you'll have the property's 10 acres to explore; there's a trail to help guide you on your hike. Start a competition with your partner or battle against other guests at the communal game space. The property provides complimentary equipment to play cornhole and other lawn games.

If you can pull yourselves away from your comfortable digs, you and your sweetie will find a variety of things to do in downtown Granbury, which sits about 10 miles west of the cabins. Rent a kayak from one of Lake Granbury's marinas and spend the day paddling on the water. Then, walk through the Historic Granbury Square, where you and your better half can enjoy dinner, peruse local boutiques, explore museums or go wine tasting.

Address: 6350 Windy Ridge Court, Granbury, TX 76049

Dripping Springs is an ideal locale for a romantic Texas getaway. It is called the "Wedding Capital of Texas," after all. This area in the Texas Hill Country about 25 miles southwest of Austin hosts more than 1,000 weddings annually and boasts numerous dreamy venues, from barns to mansions to wineries. It's also LGBTQ+ friendly.

If you and your partner have already tied the knot, there's still plenty to do together. Visit Hamilton Pool Preserve, where after a short and steep hike you'll arrive at a limestone box canyon. A 50-foot-tall waterfall spills into the park's namesake pool. If you're lucky, you and your honey may be able to take a dip together (swimming is not always guaranteed due to the water's bacteria levels and falling rocks). In town, browse the shops and historic buildings of Mercer Street and see the real dripping springs for which the town was named.

A trip to Dripping Springs wouldn't be complete without sampling its local goods. For wine, travel south to Driftwood, where you'll find Driftwood Estate Winery, Duchman Family Winery and Fall Creek Vineyards, all within about a 15-mile radius. For spirits in Dripping Springs, try Treaty Oak Distilling, and when hunger strikes, stop by a local eatery like Rolling in Thyme and Dough.

Where to stay: Lodging options in town are limited to a few budget hotels and motels, but outside the downtown area, you'll find a smattering of charming B&Bs, plus various vacation rentals and inns. Lucky Arrow Retreat offers accommodation selections such as cabins and two-person yurts, and Camp Lucy makes for a perfectly luxurious wedding venue or romantic retreat.

If your idea of the perfect couples vacation involves endless sampling of the local dining scene, you're in for a treat in Dallas . Tex-Mex, the Lone Star State's staple cuisine, is big here, and you'll find plenty of restaurants dishing up enchiladas, tacos and flautas for you and your partner to share. Favorite spots include Taqueria La Ventana, Pepe's & Mito's and E Bar Tex-Mex. Alternatively, sign up for a Dallas food tour to sample some of the city's top eats with a knowledgeable local. End your night sharing a few margaritas from bars along Dallas' famed Margarita Mile (after all, Dallas is   the birthplace of the frozen margarita).

In between food stops, take time to soak in some of the area's history. Presidential history buffs can visit The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza for an in-depth look at the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Alternatively, visit the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum to learn more about the nation's 43rd president and his administration.

Where to stay: Hotels in Dallas are everything you'd expect from a metropolitan area: elegant and relaxing. Hotel Crescent Court offers neutral-toned rooms with gold accents. On top of amenities like in-room Nespresso makers, guests will have access to a complimentary car service and the on-site spa. Culture-loving duos may want to consider bedding down at HALL Arts Hotel Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton . Not only is the hotel within walking distance of performance venues and museums, but it also displays a curated art collection throughout its rooms and public spaces.

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek: Dallas

Courtesy of Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Following a day of browsing museums, viewing wildlife and touring the city, duos visiting Dallas will need a refuge to relax and spend some quality time together. The Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek offers just the place. The historic property earns excellent reviews from travelers – many of whom have visited more than once – for its comfortable rooms.

The current structure was built in the 1920s as a 10,000-square-foot residence for Sheppard W. King, a wealthy merchant, and his family. To inspire the building's architectural and interior design, the family traveled throughout Europe with their architect to select materials and furnishings, including a stone fireplace from Germany, carved wooden doors from a Spanish cathedral, marble columns from Italy and a stained glass window from England. The mansion was converted into a Rosewood hotel in 1979.

Today, lodgers seeking an upscale couples retreat will find elegantly appointed rooms here, some outfitted with outdoor sitting areas or soaking tubs. For a romantic dinner or special brunch, head to the on-site Mansion Restaurant, which serves up American favorites with a French twist. Alternatively, you and your beau can stop by The Mansion Bar for a nightcap. Its dark, coffered ceilings and candlelight set a cozy atmosphere. Should you and your partner need a bit of care after stomping around DFW, take a swim in the hotel's heated outdoor pool (it's open year-round), relax in the sauna or steam rooms, or indulge in a massage.

Address: 2821 Turtle Creek Blvd., Dallas, TX 75219

Overnight visits to Guadalupe Mountains National Park will have you and your partner cozying up in a tent beneath the stars. The park is located along the Texas-New Mexico border and has no options for traditional lodging. Within the park, you'll find two campgrounds that accommodate both tents and recreational vehicles; a third has horse corrals alongside campsites. To ensure some one-on-one time with your sweetie, backpack to one of the remote backcountry sites and curl up in a double sleeping bag. If camping isn't your style, you can find a few lodging options and restaurants in nearby Dell City, about 45 miles west of the park. Alternatively, the park is a great day trip option from El Paso , as it's about 115 miles east of the city.

Planning a fall getaway here with your sweetie will provide not only comfortable high temperatures that span the low 80s to the low 60s, but also incredible autumn foliage . According to the National Park Service, colors begin to pop in mid-October and generally continue until mid-November. For optimal viewing, try hiking to the Grotto along the McKittrick Canyon trail, a moderate 7-mile hike round trip, or the Smith Spring Loop trail, which is around 2 miles.

As you hike, keep your eyes peeled for a variety of birds and other wildlife. Depending on where you trek, you could see warblers, mockingbirds, roadrunners, lizards, rabbits and coyotes. At night, if the sky is clear, be sure to spend some time stargazing. Thanks to its remote location, the park experiences little light pollution, meaning lovebirds can easily spot constellations and the Milky Way.

Travel less than 30 miles southeast of Corpus Christi to find some of the most beautiful shores along the Texas coast. Padre Island National Seashore (not to be confused with South Padre Island) provides lovebirds with a quiet and scenic beach getaway. If you and your partner are nature lovers, you're in luck: Bird-watching is a popular pursuit in the Corpus Christi area. A summertime visit also gives you two the chance to witness the release of sea turtle hatchlings on Malaquite Beach. One of the best beaches in Texas can be found at Mustang Island State Park, a barrier island just east of the city and north of Padre Island. Rent a tandem kayak from a nearby shop, then spend the day gliding along the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail.

For beach days in the city, head to North Beach or McGee Beach. North Beach not only offers more than a mile of sandy shores, but it's also where you'll find two of Corpus' best attractions : the USS Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium. At McGee Beach, enjoy calm ocean waters and plentiful fishing opportunities; however, know that you may be sharing the beach with families if you visit at peak times, which are typically in March and April during spring break, as well as the summer months. Following your days in the sun, take time to visit the city's other unique attractions, such as the Selena Museum or the Texas Surf Museum.

Where to stay: When it's time to bed down, you'll find plush accommodations at Corpus Christi hotels like the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel , as well as resorts and vacation rentals.

Couples who love the water will relish a trip to New Braunfels, located about 30 miles northwest of San Antonio. You can take a tubing trip down either the Comal or Guadalupe rivers or go boating on nearby Canyon Lake (where you'll also find hiking trails). Or, if you and your sweetheart want some thrills, Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort features everything from waterslides and tube rides to lazy rivers and heated pools.

New Braunfels also has a rich German history. While couples can trace the city's past at the Sophienburg Museum and Archives, a more interactive way to celebrate the history is by attending Wurstfest. The annual celebration of German sausage takes place in early November and features 10 days full of food, drink, music, dancing and other entertainment. Can't make it to the festival? Lovers can get a heaping helping of German food and German draft beer at Krause's, which travelers agree is all delicious. The Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre and Dry Comal Creek Vineyards are two additional visitor-favorite attractions in the city.

Hold your partner close at Gruene Dance Hall, which sits a few miles from downtown. Since 1878, the hall has been welcoming dancers and music lovers with nightly concerts and events. The hall – as its name suggests – sits in Gruene (pronounced "green"), a small town in New Braunfels featuring historic buildings, unique shops and restaurants.

Where to stay: Travelers recommend the cozy Gruene Mansion Inn, which sits on the banks of the Guadalupe River, a stone's throw from Gruene Hall.

The Tremont House: Galveston

Robert Mihovil | Courtesy of The Tremont House

One of the best hotels in Galveston , The Tremont House completed extensive renovations in 2022, blending past with present in a redesign of its accommodations, lobby, public spaces and food and beverage establishments. Fully refreshed rooms and suites feature hardwood floors, exposed brick, 14- to 16-foot ceilings, and luxury amenities like NEST bath products.

Start or end your day with bistro-style fare at Blum & Co. or enjoy a local brew or cocktail at the trendy Toujouse Bar. In fall 2023, you'll also have the option to sit at the newly renovated rooftop bar, which affords sweeping city views. When booking your stay, be sure to check out the hotel's packages, which include a Pride-inspired Out & About package (available year-round), and a dining package that includes breakfast for two daily, a $100 daily food and beverage credit and valet parking.

The Tremont House is located on The Strand, a historic district lined with boutiques, shops and restaurants in Galveston. As you stroll down the street hand in hand, make sure to stop and snap pictures of the gorgeous buildings. With all this opulence, it's easy to forget Galveston is a beach town. Laze on Stewart Beach or East Beach, letting Texas Gulf Coast waters lap at your ankles, or take in the ocean vistas from one of the rides at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.

Address: 2300 Ship Mechanic Row St., Galveston, TX 77550

The Wild West comes alive at the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. Spending the day here will give you and your darling insights into more of Texas' history by exploring one of several museums, taking a walking tour of the area or watching a real cattle drive (held twice daily). Plus, a visit here will allow you to nosh on a favorite Texas cuisine: barbecue.

But if you and your partner aren't too much into Texas' cowboy history, Fort Worth has plenty of other attractions to ignite romance. Couples continually rate the Kimbell Art Museum as a top activity, thanks to its lovely art and intriguing rotating exhibits. Have your date nights at Sundance Square, where a selection of restaurants (try Branch & Bird for cocktails followed by dinner at Reata Fort Worth) and entertainment venues await you. Travelers generally enjoy the live music performances that Sundance Square Plaza hosts each weekend. About half a mile away you'll find the Fort Worth Water Gardens, a quiet outdoor area featuring architecturally beautiful fountains.

Where to stay: The Omni Fort Worth Hotel generally receives praise from reviewers for stellar service and location, though a few note some rooms could use updating. The Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel has comfortable beds, according to recent travelers, and a bar where you and your love can have a nightcap before turning in.

If long walks are your idea of romance, the pedestrian-friendly Marble Falls may be a great place to start. The city prides itself on its downtown area being walkable with plenty of shops and activities to boot. Lakeside Park not only provides access to Lake Marble Falls for water activities like kayaking, but also boasts barbecue pits and picnic tables so you can prepare and enjoy a romantic lunch.

When it's time for refreshments, share a pint or two downtown at either Bear King Brewing Co. or Double Horn Brewing Co., which both earn winning reviews from guests for tasty beers and food. Be sure to save room for pie at Blue Bonnet Cafe, a must-try according to recent visitors.

When you're ready to get out and explore more of Texas Hill Country, you and your sweetheart will have plenty of state parks and recreation areas at your disposal. About 15 miles from Marble Falls, Krause Springs is home to 32 springs as well as both an artificial and natural pool for swimming. This camping and swimming site is especially busy during the summer, so know you'll likely be rubbing elbows with other travelers. At Inks Lake State Park, you two can hike nearly 10 miles of trails before taking a dip in the water.

Where to stay: Accommodations in and around Marble Falls, meanwhile, are varied enough to suit any couple. You'll find traditional hotels, glamping resorts, inns, treehouses , vacation rentals and even a castle. Hidden Falls Inn at Lake Marble Falls wows guests with incredible lake views from rooms plus friendly service.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Romantic Getaways in the U.S.
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Options

Tags: Travel , Couples Vacations , Texas Vacations , Southeast Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Amazon prime day luggage deals.

Amanda Norcross June 25, 2024

Sun Princess Review

Holly Johnson June 25, 2024

The 7 Best Key West Snorkeling Tours

Gwen Pratesi June 21, 2024

The Best San Diego Whale Watching

John Rodwan June 21, 2024

6 Top Boston Harbor Cruises

Brittany Chrusciel and Marisa Méndez June 21, 2024

Fun Things to Do in Oklahoma

Ben Luthi and Justine Harrington June 20, 2024

Fun Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Amanda Norcross June 20, 2024

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

Amanda Norcross June 18, 2024

What to Bring to a Water Park

Top Things to Do in New Hampshire

Timothy J. Forster and Mariya Greeley June 14, 2024

21 Terrific Day Trips in Texas

Long vacations and shorter weekend trips are an amazing way to unwind and refresh your life before getting back into the demand of everyday life–but don’t forget to consider delightful day trips in Texas as well.

Although Texas day trips don’t leave you as long to explore, they can serve to give you intermittent breaks from busy work life and recharge your system. 

Given the enormous breadth of Texas, there is no shortage of places to visit for a short adventure. 

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

How We Organized These Day Trips in Texas

Of course, the distance that one must travel from one side of the state of Texas to the other doesn’t give us the option of simply listing the great day trips Texas has to offer. 

With that in mind, we’ve broken down our outings by the region of the state you’ll start from.

We have divided the areas into West Texas , South Texas , Central Texas , North Texas and given special recognition to the Panhandle region. 

So, take a seat and follow along as we make our way through the best day trips in Texas. 

The Best North Texas Day Trips

Six flags over texas – arlington.

Two hundred acres of fun rides and entertainment are what Six Flags over Texas offer to those who venture into the park. 

Servicing the North Texas area for 60 years, Six Flags Over Texas is a must-visit for a full day of exciting roller coasters, themed shows, and sunshine. 

First Monday Trade Days, Canton

Held on the first Monday of each month and having the title as the largest flea market in the world, the legendary Texas swap meet is one of the most popular venues to visit while in North Texas. 

While it is perfect for a day trip, the market is large enough to take up several days to see all it has to offer. 

Take plenty of spending money and room in your car to carry home all of those must-have items you can’t live without. 

Lake Texoma

This lake is so large that they had to name it after two different states!

Lake Texoma is a popular destination in North Texas or Southern Oklahoma, depending on how you look at it. 

This lake not only makes for a great outdoor adventure but is the center of entertainment in the area as well. 

The shores around Lake Texoma also boast resorts, casinos, fishing charters, and golf, just to name a few items to check off your fun list. 

Fort Worth Stockyards

A Texas day trip into Fort Worth for shopping and fun is not complete without stopping by the Fort Worth Stockyards. 

Take a trip back in time into the old west when cattle were king, and the stockyards thrived on sale. 

Even today, you can witness a cattle drive twice a day at the stockyards and enjoy a gunfight reenacted, just like you might have seen decades ago. 

Food, fun, and entertainment are the order of the day at the Fort Worth Stockyards, so be sure to take a classic day trip in Texas to this historical and action-packed venue. 

Delightful Day Trips in East Texas

Caddo lake .

A visit to Caddo Lake is a trek into our past.

The waters of the area, created by the great raft of tree debris hundreds of years ago, led to building a habitat for wildlife and humans that has persisted for centuries. 

Today, Caddo Lake is perfect for a day visit to take a hike, go for a swim, or hike the wooded trails of the areas. 

A visit to Caddo Lake State Park is always a good idea, where you can rent a kayak or a canoe and enjoy paddling under the great cypress trees that line the waters of this great lake. 

Texas State Railroad, Palestine

Do you love historic trains? Ever wanted to ride on one?

If so, you can have your chance at the Texas State Railroad in Palestine, Texas. 

Here, in the Piney Woods of East Texas, the old steam locomotives still run, and you can be a part of it. 

Book an open car, a dome car, or even a caboose for a 2 ½ hour journey through the pines of East Texas. 

This day trip is absolutely perfect as an outing for the whole family. 

Caddo Mounds State Historic Site

Deep in the East Texas forest, we find the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site.

Located between Crockett and Nacogdoches, Texas, the Caddo Mounds is a place to visit the past. 

Set amongst the pines and near the Neches River, the ritual dirt mounds of the site’s namesake were long abandoned when the Caddo people were forced to move east into Louisiana territory. 

Amongst the ancient mounds now stands a museum on the history of the Caddo people in the area and their way of life. 

Wonderful West Texas Day Trips

Trans-pecos festival of music.

This annual music fest takes place in one of West Texas’ favorite and eclectic towns. 

Each year the town of Marfa celebrates the Trans-Pecos Festival of Music.

Although this can go on for more than one day, it also makes for an awesome day trip of live music. 

Book a place to stay early, though, because finding a bed in Marfa during the festival can be difficult. 

Balmorhea State Park

Part ancient water source and part modern-day swimming pool, Balmorhea State Park is a natural wonder of West Texas. 

To cool off from the summer desert heat, take a drive to this spring-fed marvel and take a dip with fish and other wildlife in this crystal clear, cool water. 

The park’s green grass around the water hole has plenty of room for a shady picnic when swimming turns to hunger.

Don’t miss out on this big sky country gem when looking for day trips in Texas. 

Monahans State Park

If you like the outdoors and don’t mind a bit of sand in your shoes, then Monahans State Park makes for an exciting day trip in Texas. 

Monahans is the Texas version of what we think the Sahara looks like with its rolling sand dunes. 

Spend the day surfing down the dunes and enjoy a picnic lunch for a break at this unique West Texas state park .

Sonora Caverns 

A few miles off of Interstate 10, we find the Sonora Caverns, widely considered one of the most beautiful caves in Texas .

Privately owned, these underground trails have developed over millions of years. 

Take a tour through the caverns and see the incredible geology that forms around us through the interaction of rock and water.

Be prepared for total darkness like you’ve never seen before when your guide turns out the lights in a demonstration of total blackness. 

After your venture under the earth, take time to browse the large gift shop that certainly has a souvenir for you to take home. 

Stunning Day Trips in South Texas

Corpus christi.

What could be better than to visit the statue of the queen of Tejano music? All the fun that surrounds it of course!

Everyday trip to Corpus Christi should add a visit to the statue of Selena (Mirador de la Flor). 

That’s only to start the fun. After your statue pilgrimage, enjoy a full day of shopping, eating, and relaxing on one of the many beaches in Corpus Christi . 

As the sun goes down, the nightlife begins. Try your dancing skills with the Texas two-step or enjoy some drinks overlooking the water.

Whatever your choice, you’ll find plenty to do on your TX day trip to Corpus Christi. 

South Padre Island

Keeping with the ocean vibe, our next day trip is an adventure to South Padre Island .

Although there are several seaside places to visit in the state, South Padre is our version of clear water paradise.

Spend the day at the beach, eating some great seafood, and for a memorable close to the evening, go horseback riding on the beach at sunset.

Cool Texas Day Trips in the Panhandle

Palo duro canyon state park.

The Texas version of the Grand Canyon happens to be located in the panhandle of the state, just outside of Amarillo and not far from Route 66 . 

With over 120 miles of area and wilderness, Palo Duro Canyon is one of the absolute best day trips in Texas for those visiting the Panhandle.

Take in one of the many trails for hiking the canyon (especially the hike to the Lighthouse !), or bring your mountain bike for a spin. 

Caprock Canyons State Park

When you feel the need to hang out with the state’s wild animals, take a day trip to Caprock Canyons State Park. 

One of the park’s main attractions is the bats and bison that make the area their home. 

Texas has the world’s largest bat population, and this state park offers the time to spend with them.

The bison, of course, is a throwback to yesteryear when millions of them roamed the plains of Texas and the U.S. 

Classic Central Texas Day Trips

Hamilton pool preserve.

One of the most beautiful places to visit in the Hill Country, not to mention one of the most popular day trips in Texas, is the famous Hamilton Pool located in Dripping Springs .

If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a clear water grotto fed by a waterfall from above. 

This special place is hidden and only accessible by a short but rocky hike down and into the grotto where its year-round cold waters welcome visitors for a swim. 

Be sure to plan ahead and make a reservation before visiting, as the available spots book up weeks in advance.

Fredericksburg

Not too far outside the city of Austin, you’ll find the delightful town of Fredericksburg, Texas.

Fredericksburg is known for its German heritage (and food), its beautiful Hill Country setting, its proximity to Enchanted Rock , and its many, many wineries . 

The perfect day trip to Fredericksburg is bound to involve a little bit of everything–be sure to stroll Main Street, pay a visit to a winery, enjoy some German food, and check out the surrounding area.

During bluebonnet season, Willow Loop Road is a must-visit, and for those who want to seek out a Texas legend, nearby Luckenbach is well worth a visit!

Inks Lake State Park

Texas has some of the best state parks in the country, and boy, do we have a ton of them. There are not many areas of the state that don’t offer a park nearby. 

For a nice day trip for the family, take a drive to Inks Lake in the Highland Lakes area of the Hill Country.

This lake has clear water and plenty of space for spreading out a picnic. 

Try your luck at fishing off one of the lake’s piers, or rent a paddleboat and kayak for a self-guided tour (be sure to seek if you can spot one of the lake’s waterfalls from the water!).

If getting on the water is not your thing, there are plenty of trails to explore around the lake and even a bird blind set up for the bird watchers in your family. 

Jacob’s Well

Speaking of cool and clear waters, Jacob’s Well is one of the most popular–and mysterious– swimming holes in Texas .

Located near Wimberley, Texas, the well has been welcoming swimmers to its natural beauty for decades. 

Jacob’s Well is an artesian spring that is located in the second-largest submerged cave in Texas.

At 140 feet deep, it’s quite mesmerizing, and plunging into its icy waters is incredibly refreshing on a hot day.

Like several of the most popular day trips in Texas, you’ll need to plan ahead to visit Jacob’s Well: reservations to swim in it during the summer sell out weeks in advance.

If you only want to take a short stroll to admire it from above, though, no reservation is needed.

River Tubing in New Braunfels

Yes, we saved the ultimate in Texas day trip for last.

Although you can make a full weekend out of this summer tradition, for most, a single day is enough to wear even the most adventurous person out. 

The Guadalupe River in New Braunfels is home to one of the most fun activities we have in Texas, river-tubing. 

River tubing in Texas is quite simple. Rent a tube for you and one for your ice chest full of your favorite beverages and float down the river until the sun bakes you to a crisp (did I mention you need sunscreen)? 

And don’t worry about being alone during your float; each day, hundreds of others will be doing the same and enjoying this wonderful river.

If the river itself is not to your liking, visit the Schlitterbahn, a New Braunfels water playground with slides and other fun water adventures. 

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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

27+ Fantastic Texas Day Trips (2024)

Need a break from the stresses in life?

Get away for the day on a fantastic day trip in Texas.

Whether you’re north, south, east or west, Texas offers the best day trips for anyone wanting to hop in a car for a 24-hour adventure.

Seeking the chance to reconnect with nature?

Looking to learn something new?

Want to be transported to another world or time?

Or just relax poolside with a drink in hand?

Keep reading to make plans for the best day trips in Texas.

Grab a friend, grab your kids, grab your keys and get ready for loads of fun in the Texas sun!

Hey! Want more awesome, locally-approved Texas content? Check out our other guides!

• 15 Absolute Best Places to Visit in Texas
• 17 Beautiful Texas Hotels
• 21 Best Things to do in Texas
• 27 Awesome Fun Facts about Texas
• Gorgeous Texas Waterfalls (9 not to miss)
• 19 Best Things to Do in Austin, Texas
• 41 Incredible Texas Instagram Captions
• 25 Enchanting Castles in Texas
• 13 Best Botanical Gardens in Texas for Nature Lovers
• 15 Unique Bachelorette Party Ideas in Texas
• 17 Best Beaches in Texas
• 21 Charming & Romantic Getaways in Texas for Couples
• 15+ Best Spas in Texas for a Relaxing Getaway
• 25 Hidden Gems in Texas

GET A FREE TEXAS GUIDEBOOK WITH LOCAL TIPS!

With 71 pages of helpful travel tips and the “best of” Texas lists, this is your ad-free key to your Texas trip.

I consent to receive this Texas guide book and other e-mails from Happy to Be Texas.

How to get around Texas

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

Day Trips in North Texas

1. eisenhower state park.

Just 60 minutes north of Dallas on Lake Texoma sits an out of the way gem in Denison.

Eisenhower State Park is a picturesque day trip location with scenic views that let you feel like you’re in the clouds.

Pick a spot along the rocky bluffs to camp for the day while you swim, fish, or take your boat out for a spin. 

Hours are 8 to 8 Sunday-Thursday, 8 to 10 on Friday, and 8 to 9 on Saturday beginning in June.

At just $5 per car, this is a great day trip with lots of options to bask in the great outdoors.

2. Gaylord Texan Resort & Conference Center

Gaylord Texan Resort & Conference Center in Dallas is next on the list.

I know what you’re thinking: why include a conference center as a day trip idea?

Because this one has amazing amenities you can book even if you’re planning on sleeping at home that night.

The property offers Vegas quality entertainment for adults and families, affordable enough you can stay for dinner and drinks after.

Book something fun for the kids like an onsite scavenger hunt or escape room adventure, while you relax in luxury at Relâche Spa.

Guests enjoy the food and fun atmosphere at the Glass Cactus, located on Lake Grapevine.

Live music most nights to get you up and dancing before you head on home.

3. River Legacy Nature Center in Arlington

Looking for a taste of the outdoors? 

The River Legacy Nature Center in Arlington is an outdoor learning environment, with an indoor Discovery Room on the property for an extension of learning through technology tools and interactive exhibits such as aquariums and terrariums.

Outside, enjoy a hiking path, animal and insect watching, camp site, and a popular bike trail.

Use the natural ecosystems app to unlock extras like activity trails or request a guide for a VIP experience. 

Lots of special activities to plan around include trail clean-ups, radical reptile and owl story times, night hikes, and bird and nest sessions.

Don’t miss either the Earth Day festival in April or the annual Great Backyard Bird Count.

Avoid going on bad weather days as trails will likely be closed.

Also consider peak times like school breaks and summer when visitor numbers make your visit less intimate.

Check out their Facebook profile for helpful fun facts ahead of your trip, like a recent post about the state’s beloved Bluebonnets.

Make sure to say hello to visitor favorite Dr. Ellen while you’re there.

4. Cleburne Railroad Museum

Cleburne is part of the small Texas towns trail built up during construction of the transcontinental railway, as it pushed through Texas to progress Westward in the late 1800’s.

The Cleburne Railroad Museum reopened in March 2022, after a community funded renovation.

This sweet museum in Texas preserves the history of these small railway towns by telling the story of the men and women who built it.

For kids and adults who count trains as a hobby, this is a not to be missed stop on your day trip agenda.

You’ll see railroad and conductor artifacts alongside some of the most complex model train tracks running around the length of the space.

Try to catch story time, movie night, the spring picnic, or register for a community class where you can learn about model train scenery making, floral arranging, and more.

Visit the museum in May for National Train Day event with family-friendly activities and everyone’s favorite – conductor Bob!

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11-4 and it’s free entry.

All aboard!

5. Big Rocks Park in Glen Rose

Big Rocks Park in Glen Rose features big boulder formations with a stream running through to make this spot the perfect place for young kids to climb and wade in the shallow water to cool off after a car ride (making it one of the best road trips in Texas ).

There’s also picnic tables for a leisurely pit stop, but better chance of nabbing a parking spot if you avoid peak mealtimes.

No alcohol is permitted, but you can bring your dog if it’s on a lead.

6. Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose

Did you know dinosaurs once roamed the wild west?

Check out prehistoric paw prints from Texas’ first residents at the Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose.

One of the best day trips in North Texas is this state park in the middle of a beautiful natural setting, where you can see dinosaur tracks and learn about the history of the area from expert rangers.

Check the website or Facebook page for daily updates, as tracks are visible when water is low, and trails are open.

But this park isn’t just for dino-enthusiasts.

Nature lovers love it for kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking, swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, horse back riding, and geocaching.

So much to do to fill your day!

Make a reservation to avoid being turned away on crowded days.

7. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose

Interested in exotic animals instead of dinosaurs?

Then Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose is the place to see and be seen by many varieties of wild animals roaming in herds, including giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and more!

Drive your vehicle through the 7.2-mile-long path or for a higher fee, reserve a spot on one of the open top guided driving tours.

Guides are very knowledgeable about each species on the property and educate visitors on the center’s mission of conservation, research, and support of species in peril. 

There’s even a delicious food spot at the halfway point of the trail called the Overlook Café, which visitors say is a good value for what you pay.

Enjoy the safari views while you dine outside.

Add on to either of these dino day trips other things to see and do in Glen Rose, including Texas wildlife trails at Cedar Loop, the grave of Elizabeth Crockett – yes, wife of Texas hero Davy Crockett, and the Comanche Peak Visitors Center for a lesson on nuclear power. 

8. Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park in Dallas

If gardening is more your speed, you’ll love a day trip to Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park featuring native Texas plants and flowers.

Bring comfortable shoes and count your steps as you to meander through the 7.5 acres of public gardens, finishing at the Snakes of Texas House and two-story Butterfly House. 

Bring your cameras along as there are plenty of picturesque places to capture memorable moments of your day trip.

At just $10 for adults and $5 for kids, this day trip is not only peaceful, but affordable too.

The gardens are open Wednesday-Sunday, 10 – 5, with a butterfly release everyday at noon.

9. Granbury

Granbury is another fantastic Texas day trip destination where you’ll be transported back in time to the 1800’s wild west with its many famous residents.

It’s rumored that John Wilkes Booth changed his name and took up residence in Granbury after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln; Elizabeth Crockett settled nearby after the Texas Revolution against Mexico; and finally, Jesse James’s grave is just off the town square. 

Start your day exploring historic Granbury Square, with antique shopping, old fashioned ice cream parlours with legendary Buttermilk Pie, and vintage clothing stores featuring classic cowboy hats and boots for an authentic Texas look.

Just a few minutes’ drive cutting across Brazos Bend takes you to Barking Rocks Vineyard and Winery with tastings curated by the owner, Tiberia (or Ty by the locals).

You can also take one of the fantastic Granbury winery tours !

Flanked by the beautiful Texas countryside on one side and the Brazos River on the other, this is a highly rated winery and must-see day trip destination for those looking to relax with a good glass, or two or three, of wine with true Texan flavors.

So far, I’ve shared the best day trips in north Texas, but there’s equally fun trips further south and west. 

Stick around for more fun day trips in Texas.

10. Texarkana, Arkansas

Texarkana , so named because it combines Texas and Arkansas, is a fantastic place to go if you want to be in two states at once.

Downtown Texarkana is walkable and historic, and while you’re there you’ve got to head to the Ace of Clubs House .

This House, built in 1885, is shaped like a playing card club and is a must-see.

There’s also other things to do, like the Museum of Regional History and the Four States Auto Museum.

If you’re hungry, stop at Zapata’s for some incredible guacamole and margaritas or try Pecan Point Gastropub for the burgers that you’ll talk about the whole ride home.

11. Beaumont

Bordering Louisiana but entirely Texan, the city of Beaumont is known as the birthplace of the modern oil industry, with the first major oil discovery happening here in 1901.

Today, the city is home to more than a dozen museums!

One of its most popular is Spindletop-Gladys Boomtown Museum, a recreation of the town depicting life at the start of the oil boom in the early 1900’s.

From history, to art, to the outdoors, Beaumont has a little something for everyone!

After you’ve checked out a few of the city’s museums, peruse the town’s murals, sculptures, and street art.

Recharge at the free Beaumont Botanical Gardens or traverse the boardwalk at Cattail Marsh wildlife refuge.

Feeding the alligators at Gator Country Adventure Park is a favorite for families!

Plenty of bars, pubs, breweries, restaurants, bakeries, and cafes will satisfy any craving from a long day of exploration!

Don’t forget to snap a family selfie of Big Beau, a gigantic roadside gator attraction, on your way in or out of the city!

Day Trips in Central Texas

Waco is equidistant between Dallas and Austin and a few hours drive from San Antonio , making it a day trip locale accessible from most major metro cities in Texas.

12. Magnolia Market at the Silos

Of course, the Magnolia Market at the Silos compound owned by Texas celebrities Joanna and Chip Gaines of HGTV Fixer Upper fame is a main destination for day trippers.

There’s the main shop loaded with fashion and home décor inspiration, baby toys, and paper goods galore, along with the bakery featuring Joanna’s famous seasonally flavored cupcakes, and the most recent addition of a plant shop managed by Joanna’s sister.

You’ll have your pick of food trucks offering whatever tastes you are craving.

Families are welcome to enjoy the outside picnicking area with larger than life games and live entertainment to keep it festive.

Once you’ve had your fill of all things Magnolia, drive around the area spotting homes from the show – don’t skip the houseboat on one of the nearby lakes!

You can also take a wonderful Waco Tour that will take you all around the major sites, complete with an expert guide.

Or take this cruise down the Brazos river , or this Waco ghost tour!

13. Dr Pepper Museum

Two blocks away from Magnolia Market is the home of the original soft drink, the Dr Pepper Museum , another popular day trip destination in Waco .

The historic building houses a factory tour where Dr Pepper devotees can learn about the manufacturing process, view their extensive collection of soft drink memorabilia, and end the day with a sweet treat – the Dr Pepper soda float.

There is also an extensive display of advertising collectables, think neon signs and a 1940’s delivery truck, as well as a viewing room for Dr Pepper ads, providing a lesson in the evolution of marketing.

Sign up for the Make-A-Soda experience to become soda scientist.

It’s worth the additional fee, especially for families.  

14. Horseshoe Bay

Almost smack in the middle of the state northeast of Austin is a community known for golf and water sports.

Horseshoe Bay sits at the intersection of the Colorado River and Lake LBJ and offers plenty of options for day trippin’ (particularly if you’re looking for a day trip from Austin ).

Once you’ve had your fill of water activities, find the Horseshoe Bay Nature Park to hike in a prairie land setting.

Take a picnic lunch and claim a spot under a tree to enjoy the scenic Texas Hill Country or bring your binoculars for some stellar bird watching.

Finish the day with a stop by the quaint but informative Falls on the Colorado Museum in Marble Falls, which displays prehistoric artifacts (remember the dinosaurs) and objects from more recent local events, as well as everything in between.

The highlight of the museum is it’s turn of the century “no electricity” exhibition, which delights parents in showing kids what life was like without electronics!

The museum is free and open Tuesday through Saturday 10-2, with extended summer hours.

15. College Station, Texas

Football fans?

College Station is just the day trip in Texas for you.

College Station is home to Texas A&M , a giant university with a gorgeous campus and equally large stadium that plays home to Aggie football.

Really, College Station and Texas A&M go hand-in-hand, with most residents either being students, alumni, or otherwise related to the university.

Make sure to visit on a game day for the incredible tailgating opportunities (they’re super friendly!) or wander around the campus and check out all of the history, the superstitions, and the Aggie culture.

In fact, Kyle Field, where the Aggies play, is actually fifth largest stadium worldwide.

College Station is also home to the George HW Bush Presidential Library , as well as awesome barbecue places like C&J Barbecue .

16. Fredericksburg

German heritage might be the last thing that comes to mind when you think about Texas!

But that’s exactly what you’ll find in Fredericksburg, just over an hour west of Austin.

Settled by German immigrants in the 1840s, Fredericksburg has a unique blend of Germanic-Texan heritage visible in both its architecture and cuisine.

Dig into the area’s German history at the 3.5-acre Pioneer Museum .

Listen to tales of German settlers as you take a self-guided tour of the recreated 19 th century buildings and artifacts, including an old county jailhouse!

War history enthusiasts will enjoy the National Museum of the Pacific War , and its extension – the Pacific Ocean Combat Zone, just a 5-minute walk from the museum.

You’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time viewing reenactments, gun fire demonstrations, period dress exhibits, and uniform and artillery displays.

Perhaps the greatest draw to the city is its proximity to wine.

Fredericksburg has 10 wineries and tasting rooms close to its Main Street, with this Fredericksburg winery tour being one of the best!

Located within 30 minutes of most wineries inside Texas Wine Country, and with more than 150 shops, stores and art galleries, Fredericksburg is one of the best Texas day trips for sipping and shopping!

17. New Braunfels

Less than an hour from Austin you’ll find New Braunfels, a year-round family friendly getaway popular with the locals.

There’s literally something for everyone here.

Splash the day away at Schlitterbahn , one of the most popular water parks in Texas!

Wave pools, lazy rivers, uphill water coasters and speed slides keep the Texas heat at bay!

Venture underground and marvel at the spectacular beauty of the largest cavern in Texas at Natural Bridge Caverns .

Then ascend upward, ziplining through the sky, challenging yourself at the 4-story ropes course, or putting your strength to the test on the climbing walls at Twisted Trails.

Encounter over 40 exotic species at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch !

Waterski, wakeboard and play paintball at Texas Ski Ranch !

Tube down Comal River or fly fish in the Guadalupe River.

After a full day of fun in the sun, grab a beer at one of New Braunfels’ three breweries and watch the sun set over the Comal River.

If you’re more of a land lover, head just past downtown to the historic Gruene district (pronounced Green!) for dining, shopping, live music, and the oldest dance hall in Texas!

Experience what the Germans call Gemütlich , that warm feeling you get when you’re among friends, when you visit New Braunfels.

18. Sugarland

Just twenty minutes from downtown Houston, Sugarland is close to all the big city amenities but friendly like a small town!

Full of family friendly recreation, this is a day trip for making memories!

Explore the outdoors at 750-acre Cullinan Park, drink and dine on amazing food options and enjoy live music at Sugarland Town Square, take in a performance at state-of-the-art Smart Financial Center, catch a ball game at Constellation Field, or take advantage of over 30 shopping areas featuring everything from established retailers to small boutiques!

Children will love the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugarland, with its saltwater aquarium education shows in the Digital Dome Theater!

Several golf courses and plenty of parks for hiking and cycling provide outdoor opportunities for any preference!

Art and culture, sports and outdoor recreation, shopping and dining, and attractions of all kinds make Sugarland the ultimate Houston day trip idea.

West Texas Day Trips

19. big bend ranch state park/big bend national park.

If you’re farther west towards Marfa, check out Big Bend Ranch State Park or Big Bend National Park, right next to each other.

Admittedly it’s a bit of a drive for a day trip, but doable if you can’t stay overnight.

The area is remote and offers breath-taking views of open wilderness.

Roll down the windows and drive through a photographic scene of rugged mountains and the Rio Grande River.

Take hiking shoes for mountain walks, or canoe down the river instead.

Pack for a full day, as you won’t find gas or convenience stores easily on this route.

Soak up the sun and unplug for day trip to remember with family and friends.

Day Trips in South Texas

20. greune historic district.

Placed along the Guadalupe River near New Braunfels is the Greune Historic District , one of the best day trips in South Texas.

With fun for the whole family, this shopping area is a fully restored mid 1800’s Texas treasure.

Each shop has its own personality, full of kitsch-y collectibles.

Find your perfect outfit, home goods, paper goods, or gift as you wander through this stylish town.   

Taste area wines and beers at The Grapevine, with pioneer style outdoor seating under a canopy of Texas oaks, or grab a banana split with all the toppings at the ice cream parlor.

Catch live entertainment at Greune Hall with some of the best line dancing around!

You can also go tubing down the river if the Texas heat gets to be too much.

21. Natural Bridge Caverns

Discover Natural Bridge Caverns , once of the best Texas day trips for families.

Book an underground cavern tour where you’ll see some of the most remarkable formations found in America.

The pathway is kept clean and safe, with railings to guide you along the way.

Wear slip resistant shoes to avoid falls in the wetter parts.

Don’t miss this extraordinary subterranean experience!

Buy tickets ahead of time to save and consider the Discovery or Hidden passages Tours – or both – for a bit higher price ($33 with just one or $52 for both).

Above ground, there are plenty of other activities to fill the rest of your day like zip lining, ropes courses and a climbing tower.

Book these add-ons with the caverns tickets for reduced rates.

There’s also Bracken Cave Reserve nearby, a 3,400-acre protected wild space where bat habitat conservation takes priority.

Outside of San Marcos, surrounding Canyon Lake (known for water sports) are a few places worth stopping by on your day trip.

22. Heritage Museum of Texas Hill Country

Still craving more dinosaurs?

Pull into the Heritage Museum of Texas Hill Country .

Take a docent-led tour history through the Cretaceous Garden and along the aerial walkway.

Count dino tracks and then reset with exhibitions where you can learn about planetology, fossils, Native American artifacts, and even antique farm equipment.

At $5 per person ($4 for little ones), this is a day trip deal!

23. Corpus Christi

Last, but certainly not least, add Corpus Christi to the list of day trip ideas.

This beach side town has more to offer than a day of sand and sun.

Start at the Texas Aquarium to see loads of sea life, enjoy some splash pad fun, or take a tour to learn more about marine conservation efforts of this family-friendly attraction.

At $39 per adult, you get all-inclusive entertainment.

Fancy something more exciting?

Consider the glowing kayak tours or take in a game at Whataburger Field for a sporty activity alternative.   

Even better – see it all with a family scavenger hunt!

Tour companies in the area offer customized scavenger hunts for groups of all sizes ranging from $10-20 per adult, making it the ideal way to getaway for a day.

Happy day trip planning!

Despite its proximity to nearby San Antonio, Boerne, Texas has kept much of its Old-World charm and German heritage.

A family friendly community with lots to do, people of all types will enjoy a day trip to Boerne!

Culture lovers can begin with a historical walking tour of the city by grabbing a free map at the Visitor’s Center.

History buffs will find tons to keep them busy, like the Old Jail Museum, the Kuhlmann-King Historical Complex and the Historic Herff Homestead.

Explorers will love the area’s two show caves – Cascade Caverns and Cave Without a Name.

Boerne also hosts many annual events, like the family fishing tournament each June, monthly night hikes, and the weekly Farmer’s Market at the Herff.

Plenty of dining options and live music spots make Boerne a great day trip option for kicking back and hanging out!

Don’t forget to get your selfie with the Wild Bill statue on South Main Street!

25. Galveston

If you want an expertly guided tour with some special friends, check out this Galveston dolphin tour!

Play, dine, golf, and relax at Moody Gardens resort!

Two glass enclosed pyramid buildings house a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium and a rainforest with over 1,700 exotic plants and endangered animals!

Entertain the whole family with the Discovery Museum, 3D and 4D theaters, animal encounters and a 45-minute boat ride on the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat!

Enjoy some adult tee time at Moody Gardens Golf Course, then rejuvenate in the spa!

Fly over water and guests on the pier at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier!

Waterside restaurants, amusement park style rides, family games, live music, and special events draw families year-round!

Hike, kayak, fish, and bird watch at Galveston Island State Park, or enjoy a lazy beach day at Stewart Beach!

Day Trips in East Texas

26. davy crockett national forest.

160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands, wildlife habitat, streams and recreation are just waiting to be explored at Davy Crockett National Forest!

Ratcliffe Lake Recreation Area provides areas for picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing and hiking.

Hike the 20-mile-long Four-C National Recreation Trail or horseback ride on the Piney Creek Horse Trail.

Those seeking solitude will love the Big Slough Wilderness Area, free of modern development and the perfect spot for primitive experiences.

Wildlife viewing is abundant here, including the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker which live in a carefully managed habitat within the forest.

27. Angelina National Forest

Located in the heart of East Texas, Angelina National Forest is one of four national forests in the state and an absolute utopia for outdoor lovers!

Over 153,000 acres of forest await exploration with mild temperatures that draw visitors year-round.

Fishing, boating, and water sports are popular in Sam Rayburn Reservoir and Bouton Lake.

Two recreation areas, Caney Creek and Sandy Creek, offer places to camp and picnic, and visitors can enjoy the campfire theater at Caney Creek, too!

The 5 ½ mile Sawmill Hiking Trail is the perfect length for recreational hikes.

Wildlife enthusiasts will love exploring the variety of birds, waterfowl, and forest animals in the 20,000 acres of Bannister Wildlife Management Area.

It’s the perfect spot to disconnect from the screen and reconnect with nature!

Pin for Later!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Privacy Overview

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Texas Chevron

11 Most Romantic Getaways in Texas, from Desert Casitas to Historic Mansions 

By Tommie Ethington

Sometimes you’ve got to disconnect in order to reconnect. Luckily, in the Lone Star State there are plenty of picturesque spots and wide open spaces that make it easy to unplug and spend some quality time with the one you love. From the piney woods in the East to the starry skies over Marfa, these are some of the most romantic weekend getaways in Texas.

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.

Getaway Piney Woods, Larue

There are currently three Getaway locations across the state, but this one 90 minutes outside Dallas is the original. The minimalist, tiny cabins come equipped with a small kitchen, private fire pit, and queen-sized bed set against an oversized window so you can wake up among the trees. Several nearby hiking trails—we recommend the four-mile Wolfpen Loop—and a lockbox for cell phones create prime conditions for long walks and deep conversation.

Willow House Arrow

After a long day of hiking in Big Bend National Park or a float down the Rio Grande River, there’s no better place to hang your hat than one of Willow House’s concrete casitas . A true labor of love, the proprietor spent years sourcing building materials that complimented the desert terrain and added personal touches, like works of art by her grandfather and dishes by a local ceramicist. Listen to the coyotes howl as you enjoy a Ranch Water on your private patio or stake out a hanging bed for a front-row seat to the magic that is the Milky Way. If you don’t feel up to cooking, the nearby Starlight Theater Restaurant & Saloon has cozy booths and award-winning chili (which, if you know anything about Terlingua’s annual cook off, is saying something).

Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection Arrow

Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection, located on the edge of the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, has the kind of creature comforts a cowboy could only dream about: cloud-like mattresses, plush robes, and an 18-ounce bone-in, dry-aged ribeye steak. Post up at a private cabana by the pool or master the perfect s’more at one of the outdoor fire pits. On-site boutiques boasting Lucchese boots and customizable Stetson hats make it easy to outfit yourself for a night of two stepping at Billy Bob’s Texas , the world’s largest honky tonk.

The Bloomhouse, Austin

It’s hard to describe this ’70s marvel built by two University of Texas architecture students. You could say it’s like falling asleep in a seashell or like something out of a Willy Wonka dream. And while there’s no shortage of great restaurants in the capital city , the Airbnb's fairytale-esque patio would make the perfect setting for a candle-lit dinner catered by a private chef ( Gather & Forge can work with you to create a custom menu). As the listing says: “Do it for the ’gram, but also for your soul.”

The Juniper Moon House, Marfa

True to its name, this adorable adobe casita is surrounded by towering juniper trees, with a screened-in porch that makes stargazing (or moongazing) easy and comfortable. Savor slow mornings in bed with silky Parachute sheets, pour-over coffee, and vinyl spinning on the record player. Then, head up the road for a boozy brunch at The Water Stop. This is West Texas living at its finest.

Miraval Austin Resort & Spa Arrow

When you and your significant other arrive at this all-inclusive, device-free wellness resort, you’ll be given a so-called “sleeping bag” for your cell phone and an endless list of activities. Break out of a date-night rut with cardio drumming, beekeeping, or a wine tasting centered around your astrological sign. Spend the day at the infinity pool and spa, where you can pick from more than 60 treatment options including an energy realignment designed specifically for couples. Or, for something truly different, try TexZen yoga—think asanas set to the soothing sounds of Willie Nelson. 

Peach Log Cabin, Fredericksburg

Spend any amount of time at this charming log cabin built in the 1800s and you’ll understand why German settlers first fell for Texas Hill Country. Rolling hills, wildflowers, wildlife (white tail deer often stop by to say hello) and some of the best sunsets in the state make for a memorable getaway. There’s also a private hot tub and several world-class wineries a 10-minute drive away. What’s not to love?

Hotel Emma Arrow

Set inside the former Pearl Brewery along the less-touristy part of the River Walk, this Roman and Williams–designed hotel is all about the details. Look closely and you’ll see remnants of old machinery, repurposed as light fixtures and works of art. Macarons at turndown service and seersucker Dos Carolinas robes are a nice touch, too. At the on-site Sternewirth Bar, ask for the Three Emmas cocktail, along with the juicy backstory involving a lovers’ quarrel. When hunger strikes, some of the best restaurants in the city can be found just steps from the hotel’s front door, but for dinner and a show, make reservations in advance at Jazz, TX .

The Disco Dome, Fischer

This geodesic glamping dome in Texas's Hill Country books out months in advance but the panoramic views of the sunset (and the starry skies that follow) are worth the wait. Other amenities include a fireplace, outdoor shower, and soaking tub for two. But the coolest—and grooviest—feature is the giant disco ball above the king-size bed, activated with a flick of the “party switch.” Select one of the provided playlists—curated by Texas DJs—to dance the night away. In town during the warmer months? Make the 30-minute drive to Jacob’s Well, a local watering hole believed to be the longest underwater cave in Texas.

Hotel ZaZa Houston Museum District Arrow

Fancy a weekend at a French chateau, but short on time? This hotel’s upscale “concept suites” make it easy to whisk your lover away for a fun themed weekend without ever leaving Houston. The property's “That’s Entertainment” suite has a private theater, and its “Houston We Have a Problem” suite is, you guessed it, space-themed. When you do want to venture out, several museums—including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston —and the picturesque Hermann Park are at your doorstep.

Carr Mansion Arrow

Take a step back in time at this 19th century Greek Revival mansion turned bed-and-breakfast. The eclectic, yet modern design (you won’t find any doilies here) combines clawfoot tubs and antique light fixtures with nautical elements, like a gallery wall of painted seascapes. The Newlyweds room or detached Carriage House offer the most privacy, but you’ll want to hang out in the communal spaces too; curl up with a book in the parlor or sip cocktails on the rocking chair–filled veranda. In the morning, fill up on made-to-order delicacies like truffle hashbrowns and pecan pancakes before borrowing bikes and heading to the beach or The Strand , a historic district with quaint shops and saltwater taffy.

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Texas

15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Texas

The biggest US state bar Alaska, Texas has everything from culture-rich metropolises to homely towns straight out of a spaghetti western. Although its arguably better known for its cowboys than its romantic escapes, the sheer size of Texas means you know you and your sweetie will have a lot of options to choose from when you’re craving a weekend of romantic rekindling.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet cottage to escape from the stress of the week, a Western-inspired oasis to bring out your cowboy side, or an exciting spot to put on your dancing shoes and go out on the town, Texas doesn’t disappoint.

Check out our list of the 15 best romantic getaway destinations Texas has to offer:

1. The Cabins at Onion Creek – Driftwood

Onion Creek might sound the complete antithesis of romantic. Don’t worry though, this tributary stream of the mighty Colorado River is anything but off-puttingly smelly. Indeed, its waters form the curtain of the masjetic McKinney Falls nearby.

As for The Cabins at Onion Creek, they have been created to marry the southern charm of the lone star state with luxurious accommodation. Limited to just six hill country cabins, you can be sure you won’t be sharing Texas’ dramatic landscapes with half the world. Decorated in a homely, rustic fashion, they provide the perfect private space to relax before checking out the onsite fire pit or a nearby microbrewery. For despite the idyllic setting, The Cabins at Onion Creek are just a short drive from the bright lights of Austin and equally-wistful Dripping Springs.

Website: https://www.thecabinsatonioncreek.com/

2. Mokara Hotel & Spa – San Antonio

Pretend you’re not in Texas anymore when you stay at the waterfront Mokara Hotel & Spa along San Antonio’s scenic and historic River Walk. Mokara offers a pristine retreat from society, complete with a 17,000 sq. ft. spa, and abundant privacy.

At the Mokara, you can opt for a river view room and bask in its calming sight while you and your sweetheart soak in your private balcony’s whirlpool tub. For more of a city skyline, you can head up to the hotel’s rooftop pool to swim among the skyscrapers of San Antonio.

To fully take advantage of the serenity at the Mokara, try out the Together couples’ spa suite, one of 18 treatment rooms. Getting a massage together is just one of the options. Its AAA Four Diamond-rated restaurant, Ostra, is another great option for spending time together. The Oyster Bar is something of a local landmark, although in-room dining with a selection from the Ostra menu is also available.

Website: https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/san-antonio-mokara

3. Lajitas Golf Resort – Lajitas

Lajitas is any golf lover’s dream come true. Voted #1 Course in Texas and #1 Most Beautiful Course in Texas, there’s not much else you can ask from a golf resort.

Oh wait…yes there is. Travel back in time in an Old-Western-themed room with refined amenities for the New-Western world at Lajitas during your stay. Zip line through the Lajitas own canyon! Go horseback riding, biking, on an ATV tour, or rafting with your sweetheart. And when you’re looking to wind down, escape to Lajitas’s desert oasis, the Agave Spa. To paraphrase Star Trek ‘s Mr Spock, it’s golf Jim, but not as we know it.

Located just a short distance from the famed Big Bend National Park, the resort’s golfing focus certainly takes none of the romance out of a stay here. Occupying 27,000 acres of land, there are plenty of places to find a quiet spot together, while rooms tend to eer towards the traditional.

Website: http://www.lajitasgolfresort.com/

4. The Orchard – Fort Worth

Folksy but not twee, guests can revert back to serene country living at The Orchard despite its location right outside Fort Worth. In these rural-chic cabins, couples can marvel at the rustic beauty of the sprawling 100 acre orchards, snuggle up at the outdoor fire pit, and soak up the privacy of this secluded destination.

With the country charm, however, guests don’t have to sacrifice any comfort. Each fully-furnished custom-built cabin (there are 15 spread out across the grounds) comes furnished with a flat screen TV, coffee maker, and other updated amenities. For that Texas touch they also have rocking chairs on the front open-sided porch. And as a supremely popular place to celebrate weddings, you can be sure the romance side of your Texas weekend getaway is also being taken care of.

Website: http://www.theorchardtx.com/cabins/

5. West 1077 Guest Ranch – Bandera

Soothe your soul in this cowboy ranch in the southern Texas town of Bandera, dubbed the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” This family-run cattle ranch turned hotel allows you to escape the typical tourism of hospitality, and instead relax in a peaceful Old West destination.

You can soak up the privacy of your own cedar wood cabin, join the other guests in the Cowboy Lounge for the bar and games, nestling beside an open fireplace, or lounge out by the ranch’s pristine pool. Deliberately small, this tranquil escape is enveloped by Texas hill country.

So when you’re feeling more adventurous, the 5,400 acre Hill Country State Park is just right across the street from West 1077 for you to get out in nature and explore whether that’s on foot, by bike, or on horseback.

Website: http://www.west1077.com/

6. Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek – Dallas

When you’re feeling your high-class self, sneak away from the city life of Dallas in this historically elegant Four-Star mansion estate with a distinctly European air.

Originally home to a cotton baron, this boutique mansion has hosted some of the most grandiose high-society parties of the twentieth century. Elite guests such as President Franklin D. Roosevelt and playwright Tennessee Williams have wined and dined at the Rosewood Mansion in their heyday.

Now converted into a hotel, today’s Rosewood features a design of upscale classic elegance, incorporating local art amid complex carvings, polished marble floors, impressive medieval-style fireplaces, and lushious fabrics throughout.

In one year alone this unforgettable dream-like stay recieved the recognition of no fewer than six awards, so you know the service is going to be second to none. This includes massage services, twice daily housekeeping, and an evening turn down service. In short, you’ll have to worry about nothing at Rosewood Mansion than staring into each other’s eyes.

Website: http://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/mansion-on-turtle-creek-dallas

7. The Lofthaven at Cypress Valley – Spicewood

When you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, you can escape to your childhood dreams made reality at the Lofthaven Treehouses. Perched high into ancient cypress trees, this unique 250 sq ft lodging gives couples the majestic hideaway they’ve been wanting. Laid out with a simply selection of furniture, a large bathhouse and separate kitchenette are located not far away.

Nor is the nearby creek waterfall, which will soothe you into relaxation while the morning birds will gently wake you from your sleep in each space’s king-sized bed. The wrap-around porches give you the first-row seating to nature in action as you sip your coffee to start the day or unwind with the sunset.

For the ultimate in romance I’d forgo the ziplining adventures and instead stick with wine tasting for two at the nearby vineyard, and dinner for two at the local steakhouse.

Website: http://www.cypressvalleycanopytours.com/lofthaven/

8. Hill Country Resort and Spa – San Antonio

It’s Treat Yourself Day at the Hill Country Resort and Spa—every day! At this Hyatt location, couples can cozy up to each other in so many romantic corners of the 300-acre property. Float down the resort’s private lazy river, take in the outdoors along the serene nature and jogging trails surrounding the resort, play at the 27-hole golf course on the premises, or sink into relaxation at the Windflower Spa.

Fully-rennovated rooms are decorated with a subtle take on ranch style, which is warm and welcoming rather than tacky or old fashioned. Solid wood floors and furnishings give them a feeling of sure-footedness, while local artworks ensure Hill Country Resort and Spa never enters cookie cutter territory.

The all-important spa lies within a refurnished barn. It addition to a long range of treatments, it features a secluded outdoor pool, steam room, sauna, and relaxation areas both inside and out. Looking to spend some quality time with your significant other? Here’s your chance.

Website: http://hillcountry.regency.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html

9. Hotel Saint Cecilia – Austin

What makes Hotel Saint Cecilia stand out amongst the crowd of other romantic Texas stays isn’t so much the quirky joyful and contemporary interiors. Its the clear joy owners and staff have at passing expectations.

You’ll certainly satisfy your bohemian wanderlust at this funky Austin hot spot. Keeping Austin weird as always, the Hotel Saint Cecilia, named after the patron saint of music and poetry, showcases colorful bungalows with hippie chic décor for lovers yearning to relive the Summer of Love – or experience it for the first time.

Not all hotels include libraries of their own, either. At Saint Cecilia, you can dive into classic reads, but also slip on vintage vinyl, and watch films on writers and musicians: the perfect escape for the hippie-at-heart. Once you find your perfect book, relax along the hotel’s pool, surrounded by courtyards and mature oak trees. When you’re feeling rejuvenated, Hotel Saint provides guests with complimentary bikes to rent and go explore the city.

Website: http://hotelsaintcecilia.com/

10. Angel Springs – Georgetown

Relax with your sweetheart in these whimsical cabins tucked into central Texas, right outside Austin. In your own private cottage, couples can retreat at Angel Springs for the true rustic tranquility of Southern living. Set up a little like a vacation village, the beautifully finished log cabins stand proud in a clearing that beckons you onto a plethora of short paths.

So why not stroll through the scenic blue wildflower fields surrounding Angel Springs having soaked up the feel of accommodation that comes complete with a refrigerator and microwave – ideal for champagne and popcorn perhaps. Or better yet, soar through the big, open Texan skies in a hot air balloon at Angel Springs.

11. Blisswood B&B – Cat Springs

It seems like Texas never runs out of room. On this 650-acre working ranch in Cat Springs, Texas, the Blisswood B&B is exactly that: true bliss. You’ll be a guest in the land of animals here, as horses, cattle, donkeys, peacocks, deer, antelope, and even American Bison roam through the property. Go fishing with your special someone, or just awe at the swans and ducks that paddle through the Enchanted Lake from the oh-so evocative arching bridge or pavilion band stand.

Kitchens let you show off your cooking prowess, but dining packages also ease the worry of knowing exactly what to cook – and where to get the ingredients. If that’s not enough, Blisswood offers ‘safaris’ to its animal inhabitants, archery, trap shooting, kayaking, and canoeing.

Website: https://www.blisswood.net/

12. La Cantera Resort & Spa – San Antonio

Fulfil any desire you might have for total refinement at La Cantera, San Antonio’s AAA Four Diamond resort. This property recently underwent a multi-million dollar transformation to bring its guests the utmost elegance and class.

Bring your sweetie on this weekend getaway for a luxurious excuse to rekindle the romance. In your private cabana on the exclusively adult infinity pool at La Cantera, you two can snuggle up with a glass of wine as you bronze under the Southern sun. Cool off with hand-crafted signature cocktails and gourmet fare at the hotel’s multiple restaurants.

If you don’t want to stare into anyone else’s eyes except your loved one’s, you can upgrade to one of Cantera’s private casitas (cottages) with a private pool and hot tub.

Website: https://www.destinationhotels.com/la-cantera-resort-and-spa

13. Camp Lucy – Dripping Springs

Recharge with your loved one in Texas’s Hill Country. At Camp Lucy in Dripping Springs, you’ll relax on the breathtakingly heavenly ranch that’s so picturesque, it’s been named the Hill Country’s premier wedding venue.

Nestled perfectly between the region’s breweries, wineries, and rolling hills, Camp Lucy provides guests with the breath of fresh air that everyone needs after a long week. Dripping Springs, along with its neighbors throughout the Austin region, has become a distillery mecca, with tasting rooms and even an apple cidery and olive orchards just steps away from Camp Lucy. Less than an hour west of Austin, it doesn’t require endless travel to begin your romantic getaway either.

Website: http://www.camplucy.com/

14. Magnolia House B&B – Fredericksburg

Go back to the good ol’ country charm of Texas at the Magnolia House B&B in this central town of only 10,000 residents. At this historic red brick home, built in 1923, you’ll bring out that Southern twang faster than you can even realize.

This B&B brings the modern comfort of commercial hotels together with the quiet calm of home-cooked meals, pecan and magnolia trees, herb gardens, a koi pond, and a waterfall. Owners Phil and Tamora help ensure the personal touch, to the extent a stay feels like being a guest at a close friend’s house, without the awkward greeting while waiting for the bathroom the following morning (all rooms are en suite).

Website: http://magnolia-house.com/

15. Lakeway Resort & Spa – Austin

For a luxurious weekend with your sweetheart in the roaring capital of Texas, travel to the Lakeway Resort overlooking Austin’s Lake Travis.

Although the slides of its water park hint at its family-friendly credentials, Lakeway Resort and Spa is also the perfect destination for a little romancing. And that’s not just thanks to the adults-only oasis with swim-up bar. I recommend saving this particular treasure for sunset, when daily deals are on offer.

An AAA Four Diamond Resort, and named one of the region’s top resorts by Condé Nast Traveler magazine, Lakeway is also the obvious place to enjoy all Lake Travis has to offer.Kayaking, water-skiing, and paddleboarding are all options, but I’d suggest a private boat charter to literally get away from it all.

Website: http://www.lakewayresortandspa.com/

15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Texas:

• The Cabins at Onion Creek – Driftwood
• Mokara Hotel & Spa – San Antonio
• Lajitas Golf Resort – Lajitas
• The Orchard – Fort Worth
• West 1077 Guest Ranch – Bandera
• Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek – Dallas
• The Lofthaven at Cypress Valley – Spicewood
• Hill Country Resort and Spa – San Antonio
• Hotel Saint Cecilia – Austin
• Angel Springs - Georgetown
• Blisswood B&B – Cat Springs
• La Cantera Resort & Spa – San Antonio
• Camp Lucy – Dripping Springs
• Magnolia House B&B – Fredericksburg
• Lakeway Resort & Spa – Austin

Best Romantic Getaways In Texas

If you are thinking about planning a romantic getaway in Texas, and you’ll find some of the best romantic getaways in the Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio areas right here. Surprise your special someone with an unforgettable romantic getaway.

We have curated a list of some of the most unique romantic getaways in Texas that offer fantastic lodging, special packages for couples, and lots of fun things to see and do during your romantic escape. Check out each location to find more information about the romantic getaway lodging, cabins, cottages and more.

Here are some of the best romantic getaways in Texas:

Central Texas Romantic Getaways

The cedars ranch.

Nestled among 20 acres of secluded live oak and cedar trees in the heart of Texas Hill Country, the Luxury Eco Yurt at The Cedars Ranch is the ideal retreat for couples seeking a romantic country getaway with a difference. Staying in this yurt offers a unique “glamping” (glamorous camping) experience complete with air conditioning, a beautiful kitchen and dining space, full bath with luxurious slipper tub, gorgeous private bedroom with king-size bed, restful library area and living space, and wrap around deck with bar. This Yurt is close to Jacob’s Well, the charming Hill Country town of Wimberley, and all the Texas Hill Country has to offer.

Austin Biplane

Imagine this as a romantic getaway – you and your best friend will sit in the front seat of an open cockpit classic red biplane sipping champagne on your way to watch a stunning sunset over beautiful Lake Travis! After that, fly back over a sparkling downtown Austin. Try the ultimate date with town car service: a sunset flight over Austin, Lake Austin, and Lake Travis, followed by a delicious dinner at Eddie V’s. How cool is that!

Lakeway Resort & Spa

From pristine sunsets overlooking Lake Travis to incredible customized packages, Lakeway’s friendly and courteous staff will create a memorable romantic getaway. The Lakeway Romance Package includes a bottle of chilled champagne, chocolate covered strawberries and breakfast in bed. The Love on the Lake Package includes a 2-Hour Sunset Sail Cruise with a Private Captain, a romantic picnic lunch with fresh fruit, toasted nuts, creamy brie cheese, French bread and white wine. Packages are exclusive to Lakeway Resort and Spa and require a 7-day advance notice.

Hill Country Casitas

Dripping springs.

Close to Austin, yet far enough away that you feel you are way out there: Hill Country Casitas in Dripping Springs offers all-new, modern, private and secluded Casitas, or small homes. Spend the day bird watching, winery hopping, attending a festival, hiking at a local state or national park, or just chill on your porch and enjoy the views.

In the evening, cook up some dinner on your own gas grill or in your kitchen. Don’t forget to do some stargazing before retreating to a spacious, comfortable bedroom. Large king beds with premium mattress and linens make for great sleeping after an evening in front of the porch fireplace or the big fire pit. In the morning, make breakfast and serve it in bed or on the porch and watch the sunrise over the valley. Romance package add-ons include flowers and chocolate.

Read about our fun and romantic stay at  Hill Country Casitas .

If you’re looking for a fun and very unique romantic getaway, then you should check out Ox Ranch. You’ll stay in a very cool restored wood cabin with a deck and rocking chair overlooking a lake and beautiful sunsets. Inside the cabin is a bedroom with a king size bed, an upscale bathroom with a big Jacuzzi tub and waterfall shower, a living room with a grand stone fireplace, kitchenette, and 4K curved TV.

A two night stay in the cabin is all-inclusive including breakfast, lunch, and a gourmet dinner plus a very scenic safari tour of the 18,000 acre ranch to view thousands of exotic wildlife. During your stay you can hunt for deer, hog, or exotic game. You can relax in the pool, feed the giraffe fish in the lakes take safari photos, drive a military tank, shoot skeet, explore a cave, rent jet skis or ATVs, take a yoga class, go paddle boarding, hike, or just hang out in the upscale lodge and bar. Read about our fantastic  Weekend Getaway at Ox Ranch .

The recently-completed rooms at the Camp Lucy cottages feature well-appointed luxury comforts and amenities including plush pillow top mattresses and fine cotton linens. It is such a cozy environment in a luxurious, romantic Hill Country getaway. Awake refreshed and relaxed in the morning for a complimentary breakfast, and enjoy a host of onsite activities including hiking, painting, archery and more.

Johnson City

Ranch 3232 is the perfect place to cozy up with your loved one. Their low-impact micro-cabins face beautiful scenic overviews, and are perfect for watching the sunset. The sustainable cottages feature a kitchenette, a queen bed, full bath, a grill and a fire pit. Snuggle indoors, or outdoors by the fire pit. During the day, explore the grounds that feature many nature trails. This area was once covered by a great sea, so don’t forget to keep your eye out for fossils along the limestone outcroppings.

Read about Texas Outside’s fun couple days  stay at Ranch 3232 .

Blue River Camp

San marcos river / kingsbury.

For a very unique, unusual, and romantic getaway, why not try glamping – tent camping with none of the pain! The glamping tents at Blue River Camp have two cots with very comfortable foam mattresses and fans to keep you cool. Wake up with your sweetheart to a cool breeze blowing through the trees, and birds chirping to a beautiful sunrise.

You can rent a tiki cabana, chairs or an umbrella, or a hammock big enough for two right on the edge of river. Make sure you rent a couple tubes to lazily drift down the San Marcos River. After that, head back to your chairs on the beach – or better yet, sit in the cool and refreshing San Marcos River. Read about our  fun weekend at Blue Water Camp .

The Retreat at Balcones Springs

Marble falls.

Everyone gets tired of the hustle and bustle of everyday life and occasionally needs a getaway. Look no further than The Retreat at Balcones Springs! They have individual rustic yet refined cabins, on-site gourmet catering, a private 10-acre spring-fed lake, and so many other activities. They are also close to Historic Downtown Marble Falls for a day trip, shopping and more. Escape to rolling hills, rustling leaves, sparkling waters and bottle service.

The Cabins At Angel Springs

Relax, unwind and enjoy some peaceful time away at The Cabins at Angel Springs. Nestled in the Texas Hill Country west of Georgetown, The Cabins are a secluded retreat perfect for some peace of mind. Sit on the porch of one of four authentic log cabins to watch a beautiful sunset. Enjoy the stars under the big Texas sky.

Kindred Oaks

From the moment you drive down the canopied county roads leading to Kindred Oaks, you will feel the stress leave your shoulders and peace will overtake your mind. Once you arrive, you’ll feel the seclusion of country living, surrounded by big ol’ oaks trees, and a Texas size view of the Hill Country! Come escape to another world, filled with twinkle lights, dancing and eleven acres to call your own. Their Southern hospitality will welcome you, and your true Texas romantic getaway will keep you coming back for more!

Best Texas Travel

Several locations.

It can’t get much more romantic than spending a night in a tree house or tipi surrounded by towering Pecan Trees next to a babbling creek in the heart of nature at the edge of Texas Hill Country. Geronimo Creek Retreat is located only minutes from all the fun in New Braunfels, yet it feels like it’s a million miles away. Sit by the fire under the stars, relax in our hot tub, enjoy a cup of coffee by the creek, spend a day antiquing in Geronimo or go for a wine tasting at nearby Blue Lotus Winery.

The Lofthaven at Cypress Valley

The Lofthaven offers Canopy Tour guests an opportunity to zip into their evening quarters. You spend the night nestled in the trees with the sounds and sights of the creek ravine at night. And the small waterfall that trickles close by helps you let go of your normal routine and enjoy your night’s slumber. The morning will greet you with the sound of the early morning birds and animals. It will be a stay to remember!

Texas Hill Country Romantic Getaways

Twelve oaks.

Get ready to be pampered on 5 acres of Hill Country paradise! Relax in your own private steamy in-room sauna, wake up to a gourmet breakfast with eggs from their own chickens, and enjoy king bed suites – all merely minutes from San Antonio. They offer romantic weekend getaways, honeymoon packages, family vacation getaways and more. If you are looking to escape to a quiet and serene B&B tucked away in a canopy of hill country oak trees, give us a call and make your reservation today.

The Tipis On The Guadalupe

New braunfels.

Have you been looking for a unique way to impress your better half? Why not reserve a tipi for a romantic getaway? Experience the modern frontier with these extremely unique accommodations. The Guadalupe River offers fishing, swimming, tubing, bird-watching or just soaking your feet. You’ll love pouring a glass of wine and unwinding on our riverfront deck or roasting s’mores in your personal fire pit. The tipis are even nice and dark during the daytime for a long cozy afternoon nap!

Star of Texas Bed & Breakfast

Star of Texas Bed & Breakfast offers you the most peaceful and secluded romantic place in the Texas Hill Country. Nature abounds in Brownwood as you will be surrounded by oak trees and wildlife. The private cottages are each unique in decor, but have just what you need – comfortable beds, private outdoor hot tubs, most with fire pits, and all with lots of character.

A gourmet breakfast is delivered to you each morning and they offer massage packages that will make your stay even more romantic. There are two Texas Wine Trails you can explore and taste wines. Brownwood has great dining, fun antique shops, museums, hiking, canoeing, birding and more. Come for a relaxing weekend to get away from it all and rest or explore what we have to offer nearby.

Barons Creekside

Fredericksburg.

Unique cabins and cottages in a private and very pretty location on 26 acres with two creeks gently flowing past the cabins.

And within minutes of lots of fun things to see and do in Fredericksburg and the Texas Hill Country.  Read about our stay at Barons Creekside .

San Antonio Romantic Getaways

Alamo helicopter tours, san antonio.

You can surprise your significant other with a helicopter tour over downtown San Antonio just before sunset. After that, head up into the Texas Hill Country and return over beautiful San Antonio when the city comes alive with lights and the River Walk begins to bustle. Alamo Helicopter also has other tours that are equally romantic and fun, like flying to Salt Lick BBQ in Dripping Spring for lunch or dinner.

La Cantera Resort & Spa

Enjoy a romantic getaway in true Texas Hill Country oasis at the AAA Four Diamond La Cantera Resort & Spa. Sip on a glass of wine in the breathtaking Plaza San Saba, or slip over to Signature, Inspired by Chef Andrew Weissman for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. In addition to the luxurious accommodations in the main resort, you can also experience peak luxury with your own private villa. No trip to La Cantera Resort & Spa is complete without a visit to Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness to experience a truly unique signature ritual. The La Cantera Hill Country Resort is the ultimate luxury getaway destination in San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country. Read about our  Romantic Getaway to La Cantera Resort  & Spa – what a great time!

Houston Romantic Getaways

Blisswood b&b ranch.

BlissWood is a great place for a romantic getaway and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. BlissWood Bed and Breakfast Ranch is set on a 650 acre working ranch one hour west of Houston, and offers unique and romantic lodging, private outdoor hot tubs, sparkling ponds, sprawling oaks and wide pastures, and lots of wildlife. Reignite your romance while enjoying a variety of fun ranch activities, including horseback riding, archery, picnics, camp fires, trapshooting and more! Read about our  fun couple days at BlissWood B&B Ranch .

East Texas Romantic Getaways

Texas state railroad.

This popular Starlight train ride comes alive with the luminous glow of moon-kissed skies. Couples can experience the velvety, inky dark of a waning moon combined with the total absence of city lights. A setting sure to bring out the sweet feeling of romance!

Why not upgrade your date night experience to in a special car reserved for Texas State Railroad’s own version of Oktoberfest, known as “Pints in the Pines”! What could be better than sampling Texas-brewed beers aboard a historic train as it travels the Texas Piney Woods?

Savor the rich flavors of an amber harvest while drinking in the scenery and leisurely pace of a train ride, that includes a souvenir tasting glass for each participant. A homemade luscious dinner is served halfway through the journey, at our depot stopover.

North Texas Romantic Getaways

Paradise cove.

For the ultimate romantic getaway try glamping (luxury camping) in an air conditioned yurt on a private lakeside retreat. Spend the evening in magical downtown Grapevine, Texas. Experience the ambiance of the Urban Wine Trail. Feast on an amazing candlelight dinner at one of Grapevine’s incredible restaurants, and then retire to your private comfortable and romantic retreat and enjoy the fire pit on the lake and a beautiful sunset. After an amazing night together share a private breakfast for two under the trees and by the lake. The Paradise Cove Romantic Getaway Package includes all of the standard glamping amenities, as well as an intimate couples massage in the privacy of your yurt, a private dinner for two in the yurt or on the patio overlooking the lake, and wine or champagne by your private lakeside fire pit.

The Orchard

Azle / ft worth.

Recharge your relationship with a romantic weekend surrounded by sprawling orchard views in one of The Orchard’s cabins. A picturesque countryside setting allows couples to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind. Cabins feature romantic, rustic detailing such as reclaimed wood walls and cottage chic furniture. Each cabin has a flat screen TV, Keurig coffee maker, hair dryer, and ironing board. Enjoy romantic walks together through the gorgeous orchards and lush fields on the property. Watch the sunset from a pair of rocking chairs on the front porch of the cabin. Snuggle up under the stars and toast marshmallows next to an outdoor fire pit.

This is a first class up-scale resort overlooking one of the most beautiful lakes in Texas. They have numerous amenities including a challenging golf course, a full-service spa promising to deliver a truly relaxing experience and a dining experience sure to satisfy every palette. Southwest-inspired and Caribbean-infused cuisine served up amid majestic views of breathtaking Possum Kingdom Lake sunsets.

West Texas Romantic Getaways

Starlight canyon.

Just south of Amarillo is the newest, and probably the coolest romantic getaway in the Panhandle. Starlight Canyon is situated on five treed acres with views of the upper Palo Duro Canyon. You can choose from five different and uniquely appointed rooms for your weekend. We really enjoyed the Aspen room, hot tubbing under a starlit evening, and cozying up by the fireplace.

Lajitas Resort

What a great place for a romantic getaway – cozy and comfortable lodging, good food, and lots of things to do including a spa, ATV tours, horseback riding, golf, biking, or relaxing around the pool. Nearby is the amazing Big Bend National Park, the unique town of Terlinga, desert tours, rafting the Rio Grande, and more. Read our  Lajitas Resort Review  to learn why we love this Resort.

Adventurous Romantic Getaways in Texas

Romantic getaway to la cantera resort.

Good food, great service, a romantic getaway special, golf, zip-line, and more made this a fun romantic getaway.

Baron’s Creekside Romantic Getaway

Baron’s Creekside in Fredericksburg is perfect for a romantic getaway with unique lodging, lots of dining options, nearby wineries, and more.

Zip and Treehouse Romantic Getaway

How can you beat riding a zipline into and out of a cozy romantic tree house?

Romantic Getaway Overlooking Lake Buchanan

Get a massage, spend the night in treehouse yurt, watch a beautiful sunset over Lake Buchanan and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Author: Simon Trask

Simon loves Texas and the Great Outdoors. From East Texas pines to West Texas mountains, he calls North Texas home but is always ready to float a river in Hill Country or go fishing on the Gulf Coast. Simon loves camping and road trips as well, whether it's cruising Highway 287, 82, 69 or 281, that's the true way to see what Texas is all about!

Cedar Creek Lake: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

Texas lake levels 2024 report, juneteenth 2024: where to hang out and celebrate in texas, texas storm chasers: experts in navigating and documenting severe weather events, 7 popular texas islands.

© Texas Outside 1997-2023 • All Rights Reserved

Join the Texas Outside newsletter

Texas Travel Talk

Let's Talk Texas Travel!

Adventure & travel are all about forging ahead, trying something new. Let’s Texas!

Texas Road Trip

17 Romantic Getaways in Texas

Dazzle your partner with these romantic getaways in Texas.

There’s a slew of romantic getaways in Texas for couples who want to spend an intimate weekend getaway celebrating their relationship. You may want to skip the big cities and opt for a quaint small town for a romantic escape. That’s up to you. On my list here, I chose mostly small towns that I thought would wow you and your significant other. If you’re here, then read through these destinations to see if it’s a fit for you, and don’t forget to pack champagne, chocolate, and a dozen roses.

17 Fabulous Romantic Getaways in Texas And Fun Things To Do In Texas For Couples

Romance is in the air – can you feel it? Why not go for that extra dose of romance and book a weekend getaway at one of these best places in Texas? I’m sure most of us could use it. So, cozy up and make it a memorial experience.

1. Granbury – Near Fort Worth

Enjoy the nightlife and a quaint dinner on the historic town square full of restaurants with outside seating, breweries, and boutiques. Granbury Lake is within walking distance from the square, and if it’s not too chilly for a walk – take it all in.

Several places offer extra goodies for Valentine’s Day, so I’ll bet some can throw in something extra for you – just ask. A Granbury romantic getaway  might be what you need to rekindle your relationship.

2. Brenham – East Texas (best romantic getaway in Texas)

I think Brenham is one of the most charming towns in East Texas. It boasts beautiful historic buildings, and its downtown is full of shopping and dining. You might even catch a live event while you’re there. And, if you’re there during the week, hop on over to the Blue Bell Creamery for a scoop of ice cream for $1—share a scoop with your partner.

There are other charming small towns close by that are swarming with cuteness. I’m sure plenty of BnBs are in the area for an intimate stay. Brenham, along with a few other towns on this list, is also included on this list – 15 Small Towns Voted Most Picturesque Small Town In America .

3. R omantic Places To Stay In Gruene, Texas

Gruene is a small, close-knit part of New Braunfels, with many restaurants and shops all within walking distance. Make reservations at the Gristmill with river views and ask for their best bottle of wine – now that’s romantic. I can’t think of a better small town to visit with my spouse. With the Guadalupe River running through it and pleasant weather in that part of Texas, walking along the banks and dipping your toes in the water – freezing or not, would be very special.

For an evening out and maybe some dancing, make plans to dance the night away at Gruene Hall – the oldest dance hall in Texas.

This could be one of the best romantic getaways in Texas you’ll ever experience. If you can’t find a place to stay in Gruene, there is always New Braunfels, filled with unique getaways for couples.

4. Kemah – Houston Area

Nightlife on the Kemah Boardwalk would make an excellent getaway for couples. It’s dark, and the lights shining off the water give just enough light to grab a kiss when she least expects it. It’s just so romantic out there.

Perhaps rent a houseboat for the night and have a romantic dinner on the bow. If that’s not available,  Kemah Boardwalk  offers fantastic waterfront dining.

5. Glen Rose – Near Dallas-Fort Worth

Who said outdoor activities at state parks aren’t romantic – it’s who you’re with that matters? If both of you are outdoorsy and nature lovers, a road trip to the  Dinosaur Valley State Park  is the perfect destination. Lots of hiking trails to wander, and looking for dinosaur bones would be fun. All that matters is that you two spend quality time together. Pitch a tent under the stars and watch for that falling star, or go for a day trip, but bring a picnic with fresh fruit and wine.

Glen Rose’s historic downtown square has excellent restaurants and shops, and you can make it a romantic walk with a glass of wine in one hand and a red rose in the other – sound romantic? Skybox Cabins is less than a mile away from the state park. You’ll love their place!

Vaudeville in Fredericksburg

6. Fredericksburg – Heart of Texas Hill Country

You know it is an excellent place to visit when it’s on every list that you research. Fredericksburg is indeed a place in the hill country that everyone wants to visit. And if you like wine and wine tasting, you’ll be amazed at all the wineries in this area. And the scenic drive alone is worth the trip.

Have you heard of the Texas Wine Trail? They offer four wine trails a year at participating Texas Hill Country wineries, and the first one of the year is in February. It’s called Wine Lover’s Celebration. This would make a perfect romantic getaway and complete your romantic stay.

7. Wimberley – Texas Hill Country

Choose the quaint town Wimberley – a Texas Hill Country hidden gem charmer for a nice romantic cabin in the woods. Choose one with a private hot tub in the backyard for a better night of it. Checking on Airbnb or Vrbo will be your best bet here.

Cross Timbers Winery in Grapevine, TX

8. Romantic Getaways in North Texas – Grapevine  

This town never stops amazing its visitors. This town is booming with all the action on Main Street. Grapevine is always a great place to go for all occasions.

If you’re a wine connoisseur who loves wine tastings, you’re in luck because there are about 11 wineries on Main Street – no need to get in the car to drive to each, except if going to the one further north – called Cross Timbers Winery. It’s the first one of its kind to open in Grapevine, and it’s still going strong. They have a wonderful outdoor setting, and live music happens sporadically – so call ahead if that interests you. They offer outdoor weddings too.

9. Horseshoe Bay – Marble Falls

Horseshoe Bay is a prime area for romance, especially if you stay at  Horseshoe Bay Resort – a golf and spa resort known to have excellent Valentine’s Day packages if that’s what you are searching for. Plus, the hill country scenic views are something to behold.

Photo Credit: Jumping Rocks Photography

10. Blisswood Bed & Breakfast Ranch

Blisswood Bed & Breakfast Ranch in Cat Springs, TX (Houston area), offers packages to couples who want a romantic getaway. Ask about their Valentine’s Day special if applicable. Packages can include fresh flowers in your room, chocolate-dipped strawberries, a bottle of champagne, and more. You can be as relaxed or active as you want, as this is a working ranch with plenty of outdoor activities for guests.

11. Dripping Springs – Texas Hill Country

After all, Dripping Springs IS the Wedding Capital of Texas. So, while you’re there, you may want to plan a proposal. You or your partner can visit the waterfalls in Dripping Springs  and all the area’s quaint restaurants, breweries, and wineries – there’s plenty there!

With its natural beauty, Hamilton Pool Preserve is the perfect place to say your vows all over again! Be sure to make reservations online – it gets really crowded, and they only allow a certain amount of people to enter. You can pick a time slot online.

If you want to wander the area, you’re not very far from the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin, or two popular lakes – Lady Bird Lake and Lake Travis.

12. Camp Lucy – Texas Hill Country

Camp Lucy is a great place to spend time romantically at any time of the year. I’ve enjoyed spending time there several times in the past year and was mesmerized every time I drove to and from the house over the one-lane bridges over the creek. I loved that drive.

I’m almost positive this luxury hotel venue will have a few special romance packages available because it’s a popular wedding venue. Be sure to check out Tillies, its on-site upscale restaurant and bar.

White Oak Manor BnB

13. Jefferson – East Texas

Jefferson has always been a romantic town because of all the available bed & breakfast inns. I don’t know one person who wouldn’t want to wake up to a nice home-cooked breakfast waiting on the other side of the door. During the pandemic, the B&Bs I went to left my breakfast at the bedroom door, but now that it’s over, breakfast is served in the common area. If you wanted to eat your breakfast privately, you could request that.

Jefferson is full of history, has a walkable downtown, and quite a few attractions to do while you’re there.

14. Stagecoach Inn – Salado

Salado in Central Texas is a small quaint town and a short drive to Austin. I would stop there on my way home from the hill country when traveling on I35 to shop in the quaint boutiques. I always found something I liked. From what I remember, some shops are not open on Sunday. But, for a romantic stay in a historic hotel, opt for a romantic stay at the Stagecoach Inn (formerly the Shady Villa Hotel). The Stagecoach Restaurant is a great dinner option and is located on-site.

15. JL Bar Ranch – Sonora

One more romantic place in the hill country. This one has its own private airport. Check out the  JL Bar Ranch  for a weekend stay. Texas couples love this place for its resort-style amenities, including a spa, a beautiful pool, horseback riding, an upscale dinner menu, and nearby golf courses. Wow, this would be my pick for romantic getaways in Texas.

Oh, which one of these small-town TX for couples is your favorite? Do tell.

16. McKinney – Dallas

Okay, so McKinney is a big city, but if you hang out in downtown McKinney, it feels like a small town. I had to include this location  because I recently visited, and we all had a whirl of fun on the square—a place to consider.

If you go on a Saturday, they have one of the best farmer’s markets I’ve ever visited. Many vendors sell fresh fruits, garden vegetables, homemade soaps, fresh bread, hot sauce, and more.

Here is a great example if you’re searching for romantic getaways in Texas on a budget. Find a BnB on the square to stay at and walk everywhere—there is no need to get in the car for anything because there are so many things to do within walking distance, such as restaurants, shopping, and wineries. Another tip would be to go by the visitor center and ask for a visitor’s guide. In that guide, there may be coupons for restaurants.

Oh, which one of these small-town romantic getaways in Texas is your favorite? Do tell.

About Kim Croisant

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

February 12, 2023 at 9:36 am

My website promotes Texas and Texas artisans. We especially like to promote women, and look to assisting in establishing cottage industries. Please pass along any contact emails for artists that we can promote. There is no upfront cost to join the website. 15% of sales is all that is expected on a sale by sale basis.

February 12, 2023 at 12:05 pm

Thank you for promoting women and coming by here to tell us so!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More From Our Texas Writers

Top Sites To See In Dallas For First-Timers

Out-of-towner Cindy Ladage visited Dallas and wrote about the top sites to see in

San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter

You will want to book the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter for its food and

Dazzle your partner with these romantic getaways in Texas. There's a slew of

Tiny Cabin Rentals In Texas

Escape the city for nature to one of these tiny cabin rentals in Texas. Who wants to

Family Fun In The Brazosport Area

Delve into summer family fun in the Brazosport Area - Gulf of Mexico! The Brazosport

Texas Festivals And Events

BBQ Joints In Texas

NTX Jellystone Park

Top Getaways From San Antonio

• Terms & Conditions

Kim Croisant, Owner, DFW, TX. Contact me at [email protected] .

· © COPYRIGHT 2022-CURRENT Texas Travel Talk  · ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for traveling the great state of Texas

VERY TRULY TEXAS

Most Romantic Getaways in Texas in 2024

Whether it is your anniversary, a special birthday, or you just need a couple days away with your sweetie, there are several beautiful places for romantic getaways in Texas!

Choose from beautiful cities with upscale resorts and nightlife, or cozy cabins in Hill Country with a fireplace and hot tub. If you want to wine taste, see a show, take a sunset cruise, or dance the night away, Texas has so many amazingly romantic places to go.

My husband and I are partial to beach getaways and unique Hill Country resorts (and tree houses!), but we have included some active cities for those looking for late night date spots. Check out our favorite romantic getaways across the Lone Star State for your next couples trip!

Some of the links below are affiliate links which means that we earn a small commission if you choose to purchase – at no additional cost to you. See our full Privacy Policy here.

Best Romantic Getaways in Texas

Fredericksburg.

Ask a local where to head out of town on an anniversary getaway in Texas, and 9 times out of 10, you’ll hear “Fredericksburg!” Beautiful, historic Main Street lined with shops, tasty restaurants, galleries and plenty of wine tasting, is the perfect adults getaway.

The town is known for its German heritage, and you can explore several museums, including the  National Museum of the Pacific War  and the  Pioneer Museum .

Wine tasting tours are kind of a must-do when away with your other half. No one wants to drive! The area offers several great options. We are partial to this one with a picnic lunch included.

We recommend a dinner (or two!) at Martini’s Seafood House and breakfast at Texas Sunrise . For some traditional German fare, Old Germany Bakery & Restaurant is a great choice!

Spring is exceptionally beautiful in Fredericksburg and the perfect spot for seeing  bluebonnet fields in Texas . Take a walk through the wildflowers at  Wildseed Farms and get some great photos!

Spring and Fall are also lovely times to visit the state parks near Fredericksburg for hiking. Enchanted Rock Natural Area is especially beautiful and really blew us away this past fall. It is also a great spot for some fall color in Texas too.

Where to Stay in Fredericksburg:

• Charming Cabin with Hot Tub
• Beautiful Downtown Apartment
• Luxury Lodging in a Shipping Container!

Want to Know More about Fredericksburg?

• Road Trip from Austin to Fredericksburg
• Christmas in Fredericksburg
• Beautiful State Parks Near Fredericksburg
• Best Texas Hill Country Towns

Port Aransas

Port Aransas is a lovely Texas beach town that is just filled with charm, activity, salty air, and plenty of seafood! The water is always clear when we visit (maybe we are just lucky, but it really is fantastic!), but we love the coastline here and all the amazing Port Aransas beaches . This coastal spot makes for the perfect weekend getaway in Texas.

For activity, plenty of beach neighbors, and fun surf lessons, head to Port Aransas Beach . For a secluded walk on the sand and refreshing nap under the umbrella, head to the most beautiful, peaceful beach that is Malaquite Beach in Padre Island National Seashore.

Rent a kayak and explore the canals. Or better yet, take a glow kayaking tour at night! Take a sunset cruise and watch for dolphins . If you are interested in a deep sea fishing charter, Port A is the place to be!

Grab some tasty tacos from Irie’s or gumbo from the Crazy Cajun Seafood Restaurant . For a special date night, reach out to Rollin’ Tide for a shrimp boil on the beach!

Where to stay in Port Aransas:

• Adorable Beach Condo near Whitecap Beach (we stayed here in May!)
• Luxury Cinnamon Shore Condo (community pools, boardwalk to beach + amenities)
• Pet-Friendly, Upscale Condo

What to know more about Port Aransas?

• Amazing Things to Do in Port Aransas
• Tips for Renting a Golf Cart in Port Aransas
• Best Beach in Port Aransas

Wimberley, TX is an artistic, Hill Country town just overflowing with beautiful natural scenery, patio restaurants, and a charming Main Street. It happens to be one of my favorite small towns in Hill Country, because it is just.so.beautiful.

If you are looking for a peaceful, relaxing, romantic, weekend getaway in Texas, than Wimberley is the perfect match.

Spring and summer are my favorite seasons for a romantic getaway in Wimberley because everything is so vibrant and green! Head to Blue Hole Regional Park for a hike and a swim in the beautiful waters (reservations required for swimming). You can also walk through Cypress Creek Nature Trail or EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens for some more amazing views.

Walk Main Street for some boutique and gallery shopping and then head to the The Leaning Pear for lunch. Creekhouse Kitchen & Bar is the perfect place for a tasty happy hour. Spot all the beautifully painted cowboy boots around town while you are at it.

No visit to Wimberley is complete without a visit to the iconic Jacob’s Well . While you can’t currently swim there, it is still quite the sight to behold with plenty of nature trails to explore.

Where to Stay in Wimberley:

• Collective Hill Country – Gorgeous glamping tents + delicious breakfast
• Wimberley Inn – Upscale + modern rooms
• Cypress Creek Cottages – beautiful property + great location

Read More about Wimberley:

• Wimberley’s Magical Trail of Lights

Dripping Springs

Dripping Springs is a small town in Hill Country that often gets overlooked with its more famous neighbors, but it is a true gem for a romantic weekend away.

Head to Dripping Springs to explore the iconic Hamilton Pool (may or may not be open for swimming) and the pretty trails surrounding it. The Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is also an amazing natural grotto to experience.

There are plenty of distilleries in town offering fun drinks and unique food truck options. We are particularly fans of Treaty Oak Distilling (they offer private tours) and Twisted X Brewing. You can also go wine tasting at Bell Springs Winery. Find a chair under a tree and plan to stay awhile!

Most romantic places to stay in Dripping Springs:

• Hill Country Hideaway
• Charming 2 Bedroom Cottage

If a hotel with a rooftop pool is your idea of a fantastic couples getaway, Dallas is the best place to be! Float under the stars or keep cool on a summer day and enjoy the view while you are at it. For a rooftop bar sans pool, you’ll want to grab your cocktails at Hide ,  Sundown at Granada , and  HG Sply .

The Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden  is always worth a visit no matter the time of year as they decorate seasonally with the most amazing displays. For great hiking options,   Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve ,  Trinity Skyline Trail and White Rock Lake are all lovely.

Sports fans may want to consider grabbing tickets for a Dallas Cowboys game. The Dallas Stars and Dallas Mavericks also play here. FC Dallas is also a great option.

If museums are of interest, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza are all great options!

For that rooftop pool we discussed earlier, check out:

• Statler Dallas
• Virgin Hotels
• Marriott Dallas Uptown

Read More about Dallas:

• Best Beaches Near Dallas

One of the best weekend getaways in Texas for couples is no other than the capital city of the state – Austin! Filled with plenty of activities to either stay busy, relax, or a healthy mix of both, we’ve got you covered with the most romantic things to do and where to stay.

Head to Zilker Park for walking trails, botanical gardens and a lovely urban picnic along Lady Bird Lake with the Austin skyline in the background. Speaking of Lady Bird Lake, rent a kayak or a paddleboard and take to the water. If the seasons are warm, a sunset bat tour under the bridge is a must!

Hit up some live music at one of Austin’s many festivals and stand in line for a ridiculously long time to get some quintessential BBQ. If it is too early for BBQ, grab some breakfast tacos from Veracruz.

Walk down South Congress Avenue to try on cowboy boots at Allen’s, grab some pizza from Home Slice, maybe do a little jewelry shopping at Kendra Scott, and take a photo at the famous “I love you” wall.

Where to stay in Austin:

• Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa (one of the best Texas resorts for couples!)
• Fairmont Austin (lively, downtown location with gorgeous rooms)
• Hotel Zaza (upscale, trendy + perfect for a couples weekend)

Georgetown is an underrated spot for best places to visit in Texas for couples. Home to the The Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas, this small town is as charming as it is fun! Walk the streets surrounding the square for tasty eats, local shopping, wine tasting, and a healthy sprinkle of history.

Plan on meals at Sweet Lemon Kitchen, Monument Café (buckwheat pancakes anyone?), City Post, and 2020 Scratch Kitchen (my personal favorite – salmon salad – yum!). Leave a little room for dessert because the ice cream cookie sandwiches at The Baked Bear and milkshakes from The Yard Milkshake Bar are worth it!

Head out into nature at San Gabriel Park and Berry Springs Park. Kayak in Lake Georgetown at Russell Park. Discover Georgetown’s red poppy tradition in the spring and take a dip in the beautiful Blue Hole swimming spot in summer. The Georgetown Palace Theatre is the perfect place for an evening show.

Where to stay in Georgetown:

• Sheraton Austin Georgetown Hotel

Read More about Georgetown:

• Things to do in Georgetown
• Top Reasons to Visit the Georgetown Square
• Christmas in Georgetown

San Antonio

There is never a lack of vibrant, romantic things to do in San Antonio! For a fun couples weekend in Texas, head to this lively city for yummy food, fun festivals, and plenty of history. Oh! And did I mention theme parks? Who says theme parks are just for family vacations?

River Walk is obviously the crown jewel of San Antonio. Take at least one evening to stroll its banks, hop on a touristy but cute, boat ride, and grab some yummy burgers or tamales from a patio restaurant. During the Christmas season, the River Walk area is especially beautiful.

The Alamo is the other must-do attraction in the city, and we would recommend expanding on that and doing a bike tour of all five missions. You are sure to discover new beautiful places and learn more about the history of the area.

Home to Six Flags Fiesta Texas, if you idea of fun with your other half is screaming on roller coasters or smooching at the top of a Ferris Wheel, hop on over this amusement park to make your dreams come true.

Take a stroll at the San Antonio Botanical Garden or Japanese Tea Garden to soak up some nature and plan a picnic. Natural Bridge Caverns is an amazing place to visit underground with several tour options. Don’t miss a show at the Majestic & Empire Theatres.

Where to stay in San Antonio:

• Hotel Emma at Pearl
• Thompson San Antonio at Riverwalk
• Hotel Contessa Suites on Riverwalk

Read More about San Antonio:

• Best Christmas Events in San Antonio
• Road Trip from San Antonio to Dallas

Oh, Grapevine! A town near Dallas that is adorable year round, during Christmas it comes alive as The Christmas Capital of Texas. If you are looking for a holiday couple getaway in Texas, this is the place to be!

Walk Main Street hand in hand admiring the twinkling lights. Check out the lights shows and drone shows that take place on select dates (more info in our Christmas in Grapevine post here). There are SO MANY PHOTO SPOTS so bring along a little tripod or don’t be afraid to ask someone to snap a few for you. They are too cute to miss.

Take in a show at the Historic Palace Theater . Check out the ICE! Exhibit at the Gaylord Texan . They have some tasty restaurants there too. Go ice skating in the gorgeous outdoor rink at Peace Plaza. Hop on the Christmas Wine Train for some extra festive fun.

Book yourself a hotel room at Hotel Vin – is it so classy and beautiful – you’ll love it! Grab casual (but delicious!) fare from the Harvest Hall food counters next door. But be sure to book one special date night in the igloos at Hotel Vin!

Read More about Grapevine:

• Magical Guide to Christmas in Grapevine

We visited the sweet town of Boerne during the Christmas season this year as a family, and vowed to return soon for a romantic getaway in Texas Hill Country! Main Street is a such a treat to explore with adorable shops, plenty of places to eat, and a festive town square with a park and grassy space for picnicking.

For a deliciously romantic day of meals, I would go to Dienger Trading Co. for breakfast. Choose from shrimp and grits or cinnamon French toast, with plenty of other options in between. I also hear good things about the blueberry Danish. Peggy’s on the Green is a sweet spot for lunch while Cypress Grille is a lovely place for dinner. The ribeye, Mahi Mahi, and scallops are favorites on the menu.

If you’d like to do more than eat on this couples weekend (no judgement if not), explore Cave Without a Name. Better yet, check their calendar for an acoustic concert in the cave! Walk the beautiful, but easy, trails at Cibolo Nature Preserve or hit up the trail at River Road Park .

To really put their romance in your couples weekend, take a private sunset sail with Trisum Sailing . So very reasonable priced – or you can take at sailing lesson instead. Catch a movie in the park at Main Plaza or a show at the Boerne Community Theatre.

Where to stay in Boerne:

• Kendall Inn
• The William Boerne
• Glamping Tent

Read more about Boerne:

• Cutest Small Towns in Texas
• Christmas in Boerne

Nothing says relaxation to me more than the sound of water – either ocean waves or a flowing river. Any one with me? For a couples retreat, the Frio River offers the perfect setting for a weekend of recharging, but with some opportunities for adventure if you see fit.

Base yourselves in the tiny town of Concan for easy river access for kayaking, fishing, river side picnics, or for floating the Frio River. Rent tubes or bring your own. The outfitters in the area offer shuttle services to drive you upstream making for a convenient river adventure.

Nearby Garner State Park is one of the most beautiful state parks in Hill Country with amazing swimming spots, hiking trails, wildlife, camping cabins, and summer dancing under the stars.

When choosing where to stay, we recommend a cozy Frio River cabin:

• Adorable Cactus-themed Tiny House
• Romantic Rock Cabin
• 7 Bluff Cabins

Read More about the Frio River:

• Visitor’s Guide to the Frio River
• Adorable Frio River Cabins

Galveston Island

Galveston is a historic beach town located on Galveston Island near the city of Houston. As one of Texas’ most popular beach towns, they are known for their fun beaches, historic places to explore, water sports, and yummy seafood restaurants.

There are over 30 miles of coastline in Galveston which means that there are many beaches to choose from. Sunny Beach is a more quiet secluded option, while Seawall Urban Park stretches along the boulevard with plenty of things to see and do.

Galveston has a great dining scene, with plenty of options for seafood lovers and those looking for international cuisine too. We always choose a meal with a view whenever possible whenever dining near the beach.

Some of our favorite seafood spots include Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant and The Spot (try the spicy shrimp tacos!) Rudy & Paco   is a great date night spot, but make reservations in advance. Whatever you do, don’t miss heading to The Sunflower Bakery & Cafe for a cinnamon roll one morning!

The  Museum of the Gulf Coast  showcases the town’s cultural heritage, while the  Historical Museum  highlights its past. A self-guided tour of Galveston’s historical homes is a great option for a cool day in this coastal Texas town.

For a fun date out on the water, we highly recommend taking a dolphin watching tour to watch them play in their natural environment. So special! We are not fans of spooky activities, but you are sure to find plenty of ghost tours on the island if that is your jam!

Where to stay in Galveston:

• The Mansion on 17th Bed and Breakfast
• Tremont House Hotel
• The George Manor
• Virginia Point Inn

Read More about Galveston:

• Beautiful Beaches Near Houston
• Cutest Texas Beach Towns

Marble Falls

Looking for an easy romantic night away with lakefront views, delicious restaurants, and a sweet Main Street to explore? Marble Falls it is!

If you are planning your romantic Texas getaway in the spring, you will definitely want to take advantage of the beautiful bluebonnets in Marble Falls. We especially love the fields near Deadman’s Hole.

Enjoy the hiking and biking trails in Cottonwood Preserves Nature Park and the trails in Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge . Rent a boat and jet (or float!) around Lake Marble Falls or Lake LBJ .

Marble Falls is home to several wineries and tasting rooms. We love Flat Creek Estate Winery – their onsite restaurant is the best spot for a date night with a delicious dinner.

You’ll find two great golf courses in Marble Falls, so don’t forget your clubs! Hidden Falls Golf Club and Legends Golf Course both offer incredible views along with challenging greens.

Most Romantic Places to Stay in Marble Falls:

• Lakefront Cottage with Fire Pit & Dock
• Worldmark Condo
• Downtown Zen Cottage

Read More about Marble Falls

• Sweetest Things to do in Marble Falls
• Marble Falls at Christmas

Located just east of Austin, Bastrop is quite the undiscovered vacation destination. Close enough to the city to enjoy some of its events or attraction, Bastrop is far enough away that it feels like you are hours away from the hustle and bustle.

Bastrop State Park is a fantastic park filled with picnic areas, a pool, and miles of trails through the beautiful pine trees. The air so fresh and the smell of pine is evident as soon as you step out of your car. Hike to one of the overlooks for incredible views of the hills.

Check out their historic Main Street for a meal or two and some shopping or wine tasting. We recommend Storehouse Market and Eatery or Billy Pit’s BBQ. For a casual, but delicious, burger, look no further than Roadhouse.

Bastrop Opera House puts on a great show, while Lost Pines Art Center is a beautiful gallery. CC Wine & Co. is a beautiful spot to drop in for a tasting.

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines & Spa is one of the best family resorts in Austin , but also a great spot for a couples getaway as long you choose off peak dates for a more peaceful visit. Featuring a lazy river through the trees, several on site restaurants, a fire pit for s’mores, complimentary bikes, and plenty of yard games and indoor activities, this resort also offers incredible spa services.

Where to stay in Bastrop:

• Hyatt Lost Pines Resort & Spa (not only great for families, but lovely for couples too!)
• Austin Escape Bed and Breakfast

Read More about Bastrop:

• Best State Parks in Texas Hill Country
• Full Review of Hyatt Lost Pines Resort & Spa

Where do you plan to go on your next Texas couple getaway?

From beaches to cities to cabins in the hills, the Lone Star State offers enough places to get away with your sweeties somewhere new every weekend of the year! Sounds amazing, right?

Let me know if you know of any amazing places that I missed! We are always on the lookout for new romantic weekend getaways!

Enjoy your time recharging, relaxing, and investing in one another. 🤍

Sierra Schmidt is the founder of Very Truly Texas as well as the lead writer and photographer. She is a Texas local living near Austin in the beautiful Texas Hill Country and exploring every inch of this vast state.

She provides detailed itineraries, inspiring images, and hidden gems to encourage locals and visitors to discover their own next adventure in the great state of Texas!

Similar Posts

35+ Incredible Things to Do in Austin, Texas in 2023

Driving from Dallas to San Antonio

20 Wonderful Things to Do in Wimberley, Texas

Beautiful Flower Farms in Texas for Flower Picking (2024)

Best Tips for Frio River Tubing | Floating the Frio River

Best Places for Port Aransas Golf Cart Rentals

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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

25 Best Weekend Getaways in Texas

There is nowhere quite like the great–and gigantic–state of Texas, so it’s no surprise that there is an enormous number of fantastic weekend getaways in Texas to choose from!

Texas is (one of) our home state(s), and it is endlessly diverse, packing everything from deserts to cities to canyons to wine country into one incredibly epic state.

Texas is arguably the US state that we know best. We were both born there, I lived in Austin for a few years as a child, we’ve lived in both San Antonio and Austin together as adults, and having deep family roots in Austin means that even when we don’t call Texas home, we continually return to visit.

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.

We compiled this list of the best Texas weekend trips based on our years of exploring the state, and quite honestly, writing this has made me deeply homesick for the Lone Star state!

If you’re looking to spend a few days exploring a new corner of the state, here are the best weekend getaways in Texas!

Note : After writing this post, we moved back to Austin for a year and launched Lone Star Travel Guide , our travel site dedicated entirely to Texas. If you’re looking for more Texas travel inspiration, we’d love to have you join us there!

Table of Contents

Best Texas Cities for Weekend Getaways

Nature-focused weekend getaways in texas, best small town texas weekend trips, theme park weekend getaways in texas, map of the best weekend trips in texas.

Have a city break on your mind?

Texas’ major cities each have a flavor all their own–but any one of these cities would make for a perfect Texas weekend getaway!

Probably the best-known of all these weekend getaways in Texas on the overall domestic and international tourism scene, Austin is known for its live music, incredible festivals (most notably the famous SXSW), and excellent food.

Be sure to stroll through Zilker Park or head out onto Lady Bird Lake, hit up the boutiques and street art around South Congress , check out the State Capitol, visit Mount Bonnell, and sample a bit of Austin’s famous nightlife during your weekend in Austin .

San Antonio

Home to Texas’ most famous building (the Alamo), our former home city of San Antonio is easily one of the best cities for weekend trips in Texas.

Yes, check out the Alamo, but get beyond it too: San Antonio is home to Texas’ only UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 18th-century San Antonio Missions, and the Alamo is one of only several properties to be included–and it’s arguably the least interesting of them all (personally, my favorites are Mission San Jose and Mission Espada).

While spending a weekend in San Antonio , you’ll no doubt want to hit the famous Riverwalk once or twice, but consider also visiting the Japanese Tea Garden, the incredible Witte Museum, and the Majestic Theater.

If everything is bigger in Texas, it might just be biggest in Dallas: known for big hair, big (oil) money, and big buildings, Dallas is a quintessentially Texan city–and also one of the fastest-growing cities in the USA, with an excellent food scene and plethora of things to do.

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

On a lighter note, though, Dallas offers far more than morbid history: with phenomenal shopping (not even kidding, people from surrounding states flock to Dallas on the weekends for its shopping), excellent skyline views at Reunion Tower, and great gardens and museums (the Dallas Arboretum is stunning), you’ll find plenty of fun things to do during a weekend in Dallas .

You can even add on mini day trips to other places in the metro area, like Grapevine and Frisco, Texas !

Though it’s easy to lump Fort Worth in with its more famous next-door neighbor of Dallas, the city is absolutely distinct and has a vibe all its own.

The Fort Worth Stockyards was the go-to spot for cowboys and livestock as they moved west during parts of the 19th century, but today, they are part of Ft. Worth’s popular historic district, where restaurants, bars, and honky-tonks at what was once the “Cowtown” where ranchers would stop with their livestock.

Be sure to also check out Fort Worth’s growing craft beer scene if you decide to check out this Texas weekend getaway, and of course, don’t forget to stop by Sundance Square!

Houston is a bit of an enigma when it comes to these weekend getaways in Texas: it doesn’t get a fraction of the attention on the tourist circuit that Austin or even San Antonio does, and yet, Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the country and is home to one of the most interesting attractions in all of Texas: The Johnson Space Center.

Visiting one of the best space museums in the country isn’t the only reason to visit Houston, though: as the 4th largest city in the USA, Houston’s art and food scenes are not to be underestimated!

From Houston, you can also put together a fun day trip to Brenham , Galveston, or any number of East Texas destinations. 

Texas’ enormous size translates to a wide variety of choices for the best nature-filled weekend getaways in Texas.

With two national parks and more than 80 state parks, not to mention plenty of campsites and Texas cabins to choose from, you may have a hard time narrowing it down–here are some of the best places to spend time outdoors during a weekend in Texas.

Big Bend National Park

With sweeping beauty that encompasses desert, mountain, and canyon landscapes in one park, Big Bend National Park in southwest Texas is easily one of the best places for weekend trips in Texas.

In addition to hiking and beautiful nature, the park is also well-known for its dark skies, and as a result, is internationally recognized as a phenomenal place for stargazing.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas”, Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the USA and is home to truly unforgettable views.

Plan a weekend away to hike to the iconic Lighthouse, soak in the beauty of the canyon and the desert, and maybe try out some horseback riding or zip-lining while you’re there!

As Palo Duro Canyon is located less than an hour away from Amarillo and Texas’ portion of Route 66 , consider also adding stops at Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District and the iconic Route 66 roadside attraction of Cadillac Ranch.

Float the River

If there’s one thing that Texans can agree on, it’s that grabbing an intertube, along with some snacks and drinks, and floating down a river with them is an excellent way to spend the summer.

The Frio River in Garner State Park and the Guadalupe River near New Braunfels are both incredibly popular places for this.

If you’re looking for one of the most local weekend getaways in Texas, you can’t go wrong with floating the river (and it’s safe to say that there are plenty of rivers to choose from ).

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Located east of El Paso, the stunning Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the four highest peaks in Texas, located in the incredibly vast Chihuahuan Desert, and is also known for its incredible fall foliage.

With a surprisingly mild climate for much of the year, Guadalupe Mountains National Park makes for a fantastic Texas getaway destination.

Be sure to make time to hop across the New Mexico state line and visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park, too–it’s practically next door and is one of the coolest weekend trips near Texas.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

The most notable feature of Dinosaur Valley State Park can be easily guessed from its name: if you head down to the river, you’ll be able to spot actual dinosaur footsteps, fossilized and frozen in time, in the riverbed.

With 20 miles of trails and a river to enjoy, it’s safe to say that the fossils aren’t the only draw, either.

If you do head out to Dinosaur Valley State Park, be sure to spend some time in the charming town of Glen Rose, as well!

Pedernales Falls State Park (+ Johnson City)

Packed with both hiking trails and swimming holes (aka pools formed in between each of the small waterfalls in the river), Pedernales Falls State Park makes for an incredibly fun Texas weekend getaway, and one of my personal favorites dating back to childhood!

In addition to the park itself, it’s worth mentioning that Pedernales Falls is located practically next door to Johnson City , the former home of President Johnson (though, fun fact, the town is not named after the president or his family) and close to the current home of the LBJ Ranch, which is now a National Historic Site.

The Lone Star State’s small towns are among my absolute favorite places to visit in Texas: not only is the state littered with adorable, well-preserved 18th and 19th-century downtowns, you’ll also find a lot of lesser-known culture in them!

For example, while it’s well-known that Texan and Mexican cultures have close ties, how many non-Texans know that there are strong veins of German, Czech, and even Alsatian heritage still running through some of the best small towns in Texas ?

Here are some of the best small-town weekend getaways in Texas!

Fredericksburg

Known for its prevalent German heritage and many, many wineries, Fredericksburg is the perfect Texas getaway for wine lovers!

With plenty of vineyards to choose from, not to mention a plethora of great restaurants and shops in town, Fredericksburg is easily among the top weekend getaways in Texas.

Some of the best things to do in Fredericksburg (beyond the wineries, that is), include shopping the boutiques on Main Street, visiting the National Museum of the Pacific War, day-tripping to the tiny town of Luckenbach, watching the bats at Old Tunnel State Park, and enjoying a hearty German meal or two.

Want to hike off all that good food?

Consider climbing nearby Enchanted Rock during your stay!

New Braunfels

Located between Austin and San Antonio, the originally German town of New Braunfels is one of the best-known weekend getaways in Texas for those who live in either Austin or San Antonio, partially because of access and partially because of how many classic Texas pastimes you can find there.

Whether you want to float the Guadalupe River, go dancing in the classic Gruene Hall, check out the original Schlitterbahn, or visit the incredible Natural Bridge Caverns, New Braunfels has you covered.

There are plenty of reasons that Ennis could qualify as one of the best small town weekend getaways in Texas–its cute historic district, great Czech food, and annual Polka festival among them–but the absolute best reason to spend a weekend in Ennis comes around in April: bluebonnet season.

Home to 40 miles of what is called the Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas, there is no better place to admire Texas’ iconic–and absolutely stunning–wildflowers each spring.

Once known primarily as the home of Baylor University, Waco is now even more widely known for something entirely different: home improvement, or more specifically, Chip and Joanna Gaines.

The Gaines, who are Waco locals, gained immense popularity with their HGTV show Fixer Upper and brought some of that fame home to Waco by opening up the Magnolia Market at the Silos in 2015.

Part store, part bakery, and part event space, the Silos (as they’re known around town) have propelled Waco onto the tourism map, drawing visitors from across the country to the small town of Waco.

The city has seen a predictable explosion of excellent restaurants and things to do in Waco thanks to the popularity of the Silos.

Home to just 13 official residents, the positively minuscule town of Luckenbach is well-known as a country music hotspot, with a popular dance hall and far more live shows than one would expect from a town of merely 13 people!

While it would take a serious amount of dedication to turn Luckenbach into a standalone Texas weekend destination, nearby attractions like Fredericksburg, Old Tunnel State Park, and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area can be combined with Luckenbach to form a fantastic getaway!

Known for its quirky art installations (complete with works by Andy Warhol in its small museum), the small town of Marfa, Texas is perhaps most famous for how utterly unexpected it is.

Featuring excellent food, a location near-ish to Big Bend National Park (hint: don’t try to day trip between the two), and the otherworldly Marfa Lights, Marfa is a captivating town that is all the more enchanting for the fact that it is located in the middle of nowhere.

Located deep in the desert of West Texas, Marfa is often said to be home to the smallest Prada store in the world–though it is never open. 

The store (technically an art display) is actually located in nearby Valentine–but it’s a credit to the whimsy of Marfa that the installation is so strongly associated with the town despite having a (slightly) different address.

Set less than an hour from the state capital of Austin, the  delightful town of Wimberley, Texas  is well-known in the Texas Hill Country for its artistic vibe, many whimsical touches (including 30 uniquely painted boot statues spread around town), its famous natural swimming holes, and its proximity to many vineyards and distilleries.

It also happens to be one of our personal favorite Hill Country towns!

The best things to do in Wimberley include going for a swim in the infamous  Jacob’s Well  or Blue Hole during the summer (both of which you’ll need to snag advance reservations for), browsing art and antiques, doing a wine tasting (or several), and climbing Mount Baldy for excellent views of the Texas Hill Country.

Wimberley can be easily combined with a trip to Austin or even San Antonio and is within close proximity of other central Texas highlights like Fredericksburg, Johnson City, and Canyon Lake .

… But that being said, it also makes a fantastic standalone destination, and once you arrive, you may find it difficult to leave!

Dripping Springs

Located just outside of Austin and nestled in the Texas Hill Country, the small town of Dripping Springs is primarily known for two things: weddings and Hamilton Pool Preserve, which has become one of the most recognizable Texas landmarks over the last decade or so.

The many wineries surrounding Dripping Springs make it a prime wedding venue in Texas, though of course its vineyards, distilleries, and even olive farm all make the town worth visiting even without a wedding.

Then, of course, there’s Instagram-famous Hamilton Pool, the natural pool that was carved out of limestone when a river caved in thousands of years ago, leaving a refreshing hangout (complete with a 50-foot waterfall!) behind for generations of Texans to enjoy.

Beach Getaways in Texas

I’ll be perfectly honest: as both a lover of Texas and a lover of beaches, you’ll never catch me saying that Texas’ beaches are among the best in the country… but if you’re looking to soak up some saltwater and enjoy a laid-back beach town or two, you definitely have some solid weekend trips in Texas to choose from!

South Padre Island

Located on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico, South Padre Island is among the most popular weekend getaways in Texas for people hoping to hit the beach, from laid-back retirees to young families–but during Spring Break, it becomes the most popular party destination in Texas.

With long stretches of beach, a turtle sanctuary, and plenty of classic beach town activities, South Padre is arguably the most beloved beach getaway in Texas (though admittedly, if you grew up in Texas, that probably depends on where your family headed).

On a personal note, the island will always hold a special place in our hearts for the fact that we spent our first wedding anniversary there!

Port Aransas

Located on Mustang Island, charming Port Aransas is certainly one of Texas’ best beach getaways but is perhaps even better known for its many fishing opportunities and incredible dolphin sightings.

Be sure to head over to both Padre Island National Seashore and Mustang Island State Park to enjoy the many local beaches while there!

There’s a reason that Galveston is one of the best-known beach destinations in Texas!

Home to sandy beaches, plenty of fishing, the beautiful Strand Historic District, family-friendly amusement parks, and even stunning historical homes like Bishop’s Palace to tour, Galveston has something to offer all kinds of visitors–especially given its location, which makes it an incredibly convenient weekend getaway from Houston.

Want to focus your Texas weekend trip on thrilling rides and escaping the real world entirely?

Consider heading off to one of Texas’ major theme parks!

Six Flags Fiesta Texas (San Antonio)

Located in San Antonio and nestled next to a former quarry, Six Flags Fiesta Texas (and its attached water park, White Water Bay) is home to some incredible roller coasters (Poltergeist, Superman, and Iron Rattler were endlessly exciting for me as a child, and held up well into adulthood), as well as plenty of family-friendly options.

Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington)

The original Six Flags park (though not the oldest counting properties that the brand acquired later), Six Flags Over Texas is packed with rides and shows, including some truly incredible roller coasters–the New Texas Giant is among the most popular.

Opening in 1961 as the first park belonging to the Six Flags brand, it’s at this park you can peak into a bit of Texas history that has now become a national brand: “Six Flags” is a reference to the six flags that have ruled over Texas since the 1500s (Spain, France, Mexico, the USA, the Confederacy, and briefly, Texas itself as an independent nation).

More than 50 years later, Six Flags Over Texas endures as a beloved Texas weekend destination!

Schlitterbahn (New Braunfels)

While the Schlitterbahn brand has several parks now, the original–and biggest–is located in New Braunfels and has been open seasonally since 1979.

Half of Schlitterbahn New Braunfels uses spring-fed river water from the Comal River to feed its rides, making it one of the more nature-friendly water parks around. 

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

[convertkit form=3386343]

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

1 thought on “25 Best Weekend Getaways in Texas”

Thank you so much for this information! Very helpful 😀

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips in Texas

Last Updated By VI in Texas Day Trips on June 6, 2024

Galveston Island

Fredericksburg, new braunfels.

• Complete List & Map

Moody Gardens is a kids’ delight with an aquarium pyramid, a tropical rainforest pyramid, and a 3-D theater. Schlitterbahn Waterpark is an incredible family entertainment park.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, located on the ranch that belonged to the former president Lyndon B. Johnson, offers fascinating self-guided tours. Fredericksburg is surrounded by century-old peach orchards and a number of well-known wineries .

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch & Caverns, with 500 animals, is beloved by animal lovers. The best time to come for a visit is during one of its many festivals, when the town is alive with traditional music and food.

The city’s International Museum of Art & Science features interactive exhibits, European paintings, and Picasso lithographs. To the south, visitors will find the Quinta Mazatlan – a Spanish Revival mansion that is surrounded by natural woodlands that are filled with migratory and endemic species of birds. There are a several green and scenic parks in McAllen , including Los Encinos Park, Springfest Park, and Fireman’s Park. The McAllen Nature Center, Nuevo Santadar Gallery, and La Plaza mall, are all worth a visit as well.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043, Phone: 254-897-4588

Nacogdoches

Visitors can explore attractions such as the 10-acre Mast Arboretum, the Millard's Crossing Historic Village living history museum, and the Old Stone Fort Museum, which recreates an important 1779 militia fort. More romantic weekend getaways from Houston

Bracken Cave

26101 FM3009, San Antonio, TX 78266

Hill Country Mile, Boerne, Texas

The historic buildings are now home to fun stores, restaurants and galleries. Almost every building on the street is filled with historic charm and beautiful architecture. Art lovers can visit several art galleries for take a stroll along an outdoor route which leads to several large-scale sculptures . Shopping and dining opportunities abound. Also, don't miss Boerne's renovated River Road Park .

Caverns of Sonora

1711 Pvt Rd 4468, Sonora, TX 76950, Phone: 325-387-3105

Dripping Springs

Arguably the most notable is Deep Eddy Distillery. Jester King is a craft brewery located in an authentic farmhouse on a huge ranch that is known as the best adult playground in the area.

The Little Church on Grafton Street is one of Dublin’s historical jewels, while the Dublin Veterans Memorial honors its citizens who have served the country. More weekend getaways from Dallas

Fort Griffin State Historical Park

Fort Griffin State Historical Park , 1701 US-283, Albany, TX 76430, Phone: 325-762-3592

Inks Lake State Park

3630 Park Road 4 West, Burnet , TX 78611, Phone: 512-793-2223

Sandy Road Vineyards, Johnson City

Sandy Road Vineyards , 383 Vineyard Row, Johnson City, TX 78636, 512 589 1826

Sam Rayburn Reservoir

Besides watersports, the lake’s lush forested surrounds are great for camping, birdwatching, hiking, and scenic drives around the lake. More family weekend getaways in Texas

Mineral Wells Fossil Park

2375 Indian Creek Road, Mineral Wells, Texas

Monahans Sandhills State Park

2500 E Interstate 20 Exit 86, Monahans, TX 79756, Phone: 432-943-2092

Munster's Mansion

Munster's Mansion , 3636 FM 813, Waxahachie, TX 75165

National WASP WWII Museum

210 Avenger Field Rd, Sweetwater, TX 79556, Phone: 325-235-0099

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266

Palo Duro Canyon

11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

17000 W IH 10, San Antonio, TX 78257

Skyspace: The Color Inside

2201 Speedway, Austin, Texas, Phone: 512-495-4315

The Mysterious Marfa Lights

Marfa, Texas

Enchanted Rock

Enchanted Rock is a pink granite mountain located about 17 miles from Fredericksburg, Texas. Technically an igneous rock intrusion, this massive dome is made of pink granite and stands 425 feet above the ground that surrounds it. It is not surprising that such a strange, and very beautiful, natural formation inspired legends and was attributed spiritual powers by the Tonkawa Native Americans and early Spanish and Anglo settlers. It is not only the rock’s unusual color that makes it so mysterious. Enchanted Rock makes strange creaking noises on a cool night after a warm day. Also, there are many small pools in the depressions in the rock, each with tiny shrimps living in it. The rock also contains a 1,500-foot-long cave, dark, wet, and often spidery. Artifacts 11,000 years old have been found in the cave and even a rare semiprecious stone known as Llanite. It is illegal to remove any rocks from the park.

8325 Travelair St, Houston, TX 77061, Phone: 713-454-1940

209 W Franklin St, Waxahachie, TX 75165, Phone: 214-632-7473

1699 Mt. Sharp Road, Wimberley, TX 78676

• 1. Galveston Island
• 2. Fredericksburg
• 3. New Braunfels
• 5. Dinosaur Valley State Park
• 6. Nacogdoches
• 7. Bracken Cave
• 8. Hill Country Mile, Boerne, Texas
• 9. Caverns of Sonora
• 10. Dripping Springs
• 12. Fort Griffin State Historical Park
• 13. Inks Lake State Park
• 14. Sandy Road Vineyards, Johnson City
• 15. Sam Rayburn Reservoir
• 16. Mineral Wells Fossil Park
• 17. Monahans Sandhills State Park
• 18. Munster's Mansion
• 19. National WASP WWII Museum
• 20. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
• 21. Palo Duro Canyon
• 22. Six Flags Fiesta Texas
• 23. Skyspace: The Color Inside
• 24. The Mysterious Marfa Lights
• 25. Enchanted Rock

More Texas Getaways:

Resources: Padre Island , San Antonio Missions

More Features

12 Best Overwater Hotel Pools

25 Must-Try Romantic Restaurants in San Antonio, Texas

6 Best Beaches Near Houston

• --> Conclusion

Vacation Idea

• About Us/Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

20 Fun and Easy Day Trips From Austin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips from Austin

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next: 40+ Free Things To Do In Austin

Things to do in Wimberley, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pedernales Falls State Park

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

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

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

Canyon Lake

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

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

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

Things to do in Canyon Lake, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Gruene

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

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

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

New Braunfels

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

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

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

Things to do in New Braunfels, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Salado, TX

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

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

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

McKinney Falls State Park

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

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

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

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

Johnson City

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Johnson City, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Driftwood, TX

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

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

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

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

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

Colorado Bend State Park

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

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

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

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

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

Fredericksburg

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

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

Things to do in Fredericksburg, TX

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

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

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

Check out the lavender fields at Becker Vineyards.

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Georgetown, TX

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

Explore the Inner Space Caverns.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Lockhart, TX

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

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

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

San Antonio

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

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

Things to do in San Antonio, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Boerne, TX

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

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

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

Enchanted Rock State Park

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

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

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

Guadalupe River State Park

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

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

Marble Falls

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

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

Things to do in Marble Falls, TX

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

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Austin

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

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

You Might Also Like These Texas Posts:

101 Travel Experiences for Your Couple’s Bucket List

15 Awesome Things to Do in Spicewood, TX

101 Ideas for Date Night In Dallas

50 Free Things to Do in Dallas-Fort Worth

80 Ideas for Date Night in Fort Worth

Covered Wagon Camping: Unique Places to Stay in Texas

Fabulous Lake Buchanan Cabins, RV Park, and Camping

Romantic Weekend in Downtown McKinney

50 Awesome Texas Bucket List Experiences

5 Awesome Road Trips in Texas to Take Now

Fun Things to Do in Kingsland, Texas

10 Awesome Port Aransas Beaches

20 Fabulous Waterfalls in Texas

18 Fabulous Beaches in Texas

12 Awesome Things to Do in Marble Falls, Texas

25 Fun Things to do in Corpus Christi, Texas

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight:

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

Book Your Vacation Package:

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

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

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

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

Book Your Accommodations:

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

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

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

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

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

Tour Companies We Trust:

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

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

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

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

Looking to Save Time and Money?

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

Let’s Connect on Social Media!

• Instagram Follow
• Pinterest Follow
• TikTok follow
• Twitter follow
• YouTube follow
• Flickr follow
• facebook link

About the Author

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

Sunday 6th of September 2020

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

thattexascouple

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

Sunday 19th of July 2020

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

Oh yay! That makes me so happy to hear!

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

Awesome! Thank you so much!

Saturday 18th of July 2020

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

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

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

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

12 Unforgettable Texas Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year

Katie Lawrence

Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015. Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).

More by this Author

Twelve day trips, 12 months. Are you up for the challenge? Texas is full of places to visit, so we’ve narrowed the list to make your year the most exciting one yet. No matter what time of year you plan your Texas day trips, there are plenty of enchanting wonders, and here are some of the best day trips in Texas you can take, one for each month of the year.

Related Stories

5 Incredible Texas Day Trips You Can Take By Train

Play Ocean-Themed Mini Golf, Then Cool Off With Frozen Custard For A Fun, Family-Friendly Summer Day Trip In Texas

The Charming Small Town In Texas That's Perfect For A Fall Day Trip

How many of these Texas day trips have you taken? Which ones are still on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments. If you want to fill your year with even more adventure, take a look at our list of the best hikes in Texas , there’s one for every month just like this article!

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

Want more Texas in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Texas!

An error occured.

More to Explore

Best day trips in texas.

Which Texas state parks should I visit?

There are over 80 state parks in Texas, perfect for the outdoor explorer looking to have an adventure. Texas state parks come in all shapes and sizes, and feature a wide array of scenery: 

• Garner State Park
• Monahans Sandhills State Park
• Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park  

Where are the best places to see fall foliage in Texas?

The best place to see fall foliage in Texas is probably Garner State Park . In the fall, the towering limestone bluffs are enhanced by a background of beautiful reds, oranges, and yellows for a majestic display. Add that to the stunning views of the Frio River, and you’ve got a view worthy of any leaf peeper.

What are the most beautiful places in Texas?

There’s a lot to love about Texas, and its natural beauty is just the start. A couple of the most beautiful places in Texas are 

• Rockport Beach
• Palo Duro Canyon

Related Articles

• This Charming European-Inspired Museum In Texas Is The Perfect Place For A Day Trip
• This Unique State Park In Texas Is Perfect For A Day Trip Any Time Of Year
• These 14 Unique Day Trips In Texas Belong On Your State Bucket List
• This Island In Texas Has Tons Of Family-Friendly Attractions In Every Season
• The Scenic Texas Hill Country Route That Leads To 4 Old-Fashioned Bakeries, Furniture Stores, And More
• The Tiny Beach Town In Texas That's The Perfect Day Trip Destination
• Here Are The 10 Best Fourth Of July Fireworks In Texas
• Lake Casa Blanca International State Park Is One Of The Most Underrated Summer Destinations In Texas

Explore Texas

Incredible Texas

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

Houston, TX , is a bustling and cosmopolitan city that offers plenty of attractions and entertainment options for its residents and visitors. But sometimes, you may want to escape the urban hustle and bustle and explore the surrounding areas that offer a different vibe and scenery.

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

Consider reading: Unique and Fun Things to Do in Houston

Page Contents

Best Day Trips from Houston

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

Galveston Island

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

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

Consider reading: Top 14 Best Beaches in Galveston

Kemah Boardwalk

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

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

Gruene Historic District

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

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

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

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

Unusual Day trips from Houston

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

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

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

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

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

Consider reading: 10 Best Lakes in Houston, TX for Camping and Fishing

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

Day trips from Houston for families

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

Space Center Houston

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

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

Brazos Bend State Park

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

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

Consider reading: Brazos Bend State Park Camping and Hiking Trails

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

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

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

Fun Day trips from Houston

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

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

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

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

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

Romantic Day trips from Houston

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

Fredericksburg: A Wine Lover’s Paradise

Just a scenic drive away, Fredericksburg is a quintessential destination for couples. This charming town is famed for its vineyards and wine-tasting tours , offering an indulgent experience.

Wander through idyllic vineyards, savoring exquisite Texas wines, and bask in the picturesque Hill Country views. Fredericksburg also boasts cozy bed and breakfasts, making it a perfect stay for a romantic retreat.

Consider reading: 21 Best Things to Do in Fredericksburg TX

Kemah Boardwalk: For Thrill-Seeking Couples

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

Wimberley: A Tranquil Escape

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

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

Consider reading: Unique Date Ideas in Houston

Day trips from Houston For Seniors

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

Galveston Island: A Coastal Retreat

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

Seniors can enjoy:

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

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

Consider reading: 20 Best Things to Do in Galveston TX this Weekend with Kids

Brenham: A Slice of Texan History

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

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

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

Huntsville: For Nature and History Enthusiasts

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

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

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

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

Day trips from Houston with Dogs

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

First on the list is the charming city of Austin . Known for its pet-friendly atmosphere, Austin offers several dog parks and outdoor eateries where dogs are more than welcome.

Zilker Metropolitan Park is a particular highlight, providing ample space for leashed walks and even a designated off-leash area. With its close proximity to Houston, Austin makes for an ideal day trip with dogs, offering both urban exploration and natural landscapes.

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

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

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

Consider reading: Things to Do in Houston Zoo

Final Thoughts on Best Day Trips from Houston

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

Each destination holds its unique charm, promising memorable outings for every traveler.

FAQs on Best Day Trips from Houston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How does Galveston Island accommodate day trips with dogs?

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

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

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

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

Howdy! We're your go-to Texans guiding you through this Lone Star State-focused blog. Born and raised here, we've roamed from bustling cities to serene countryside, ready to share these tales with y'all.

Blending our deep-rooted passion for writing and Texas, we offer a unique perspective, intertwining personal journeys with unwavering truthfulness. Equipped with a background in journalism, our promise is to deliver the most engaging, informative content possible.

Come join us on this thrilling journey through Texas. We aim to educate, entertain, and inspire, as we unfold the best of Texas together. Let's get going!

Similar Posts

32 Best Things to Do in Houston for Free This Weekend For Couples and Family with Kids

Planning to visit Houston TX? Explore our guide on the 32 Best Things to Do in Houston for Free This Weekend For Couples and Family with Kids

Top 10 Best Places for Camping in Houston for Unforgettable Getaways

Complete Guide to Top 10 Best Places for Camping in Houston TX | Best Campsites, RV Parks, Campgrounds with Cabin | Family Friendly Camping

Top 14 Best Beaches in Galveston: For Adults, Family with Kids and Dog-Friendly

Complete details of Top 14 Best Beaches in Galveston | Family friendly beaches in Galveston that allows dogs | Fun things to do in Galveston

Brazos Bend State Park Texas Map, Camping, Fishing, Activities, Amenities, Reviews

Full Details of Brazos Bend State Park Texas Map, Camping, Fishing, Activities, Amenities, Reviews | Read our guide to plan your trip

Xtreme Off Road Park and Beach Prices, Camping, Events Schedule and Photos

Full details of Xtreme Off Road Park and Beach | Know about Entry fee, ATV Rental Prices, Camping, Events Schedule, Reviews and Photos

Exploring the Top 20 Best Houston Parks: Hidden Gems, Activities, and How to Reach

Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Top 20 Best Houston Parks | Explore the Hidden Gems and Activities | How to Reach parks in Houston

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

It's the longest day of the year! Here's 25+ Texas things to do before sunset

Whether you're a native texan or just passing through, here's a list of very stereotypical things to do here. how many can you check off before the sun sets.

Today is the longest day of the year, and there's no better way to spend those extra daylight hours than participating in some quintessential Texas activities.

Whether you're a native Texan or just passing through, here's a list of things to do that scream "Texas." How many can you check off before the sun sets?

More: Nothing to do in West Texas? Here are 30 day trips on a tank of gas from Lubbock

Why is it the longest day of the year?

The summer solstice falls annually on June 20, marking the first official day of summer. The sun reaches its highest and northernmost points in the sky, bringing the longest period of sunlight for those in the Northern Hemisphere.

When is sunset in Texas?

Sunset times vary across the state. But from East Texas to West Texas, it ranges between 8:29 p.m. and 9:01 p.m.

More: Is Beavis and Butt-Head based in Texas? Mike Judge hints at it

Here are some things to do.

While we recognize some of these are more plausible than others, this is truly only a compilation of classic Texas activities. Remember, the goal is to cram in as many as possible on the longest day of the year.

• Eat barbecue in Lockhart
• Visit the Alamo in San Antonio
• Dance at Gruene Hall
• Eat a kolache from West, Texas
• Go to a rodeo
• Watch the Houston Astros game (on TV)
• Visit the Stockyards in Fort Worth and watch the twice-daily cattle drive
• Visit the Texas Capitol in Austin
• Go two-stepping at Billy Bob’s Texas
• Host a backyard barbecue
• Enjoy a meal along the River Walk in San Antonio
• Explore Big Bend National Park
• Visit the Magnolia Market in Waco
• Float a river
• Go wine tasting in Fredericksburg
• Visit the Fort Worth Zoo
• Watch bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin
• Visit the Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas
• Go horseback riding
• Eat Blue Bell ice cream
• Take a scenic drive through Hill Country
• Visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
• Go stargazing at the McDonald Observatory
• Eat at the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo
• Visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas
• Visit the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library in College Station
• Drink a Dr Pepper — or maybe two
• Eat on the patio of Joe T. Garcia's in Fort Worth

(We would have added Whataburger to the list, but we all know it tastes best after sunset.)

More: Looking for something free to do in Austin this summer? We've got you.