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Best Road Trips from Houston – 20 Adventures for Families, Friends, Couples, and Solo Travelers!

Posted by Kathryn Yacovodonato | Mar 17, 2024 | Travel | 2

Best Road Trips from Houston

Grab your keys and get ready for adventure—there’s a whole world waiting just outside Houston’s borders and this list of Best Road Trips from Houston includes places like Sam Houston National Park , Huntsville , Beaumont , and Texas Hill Country!

Sure, the city’s got plenty to offer, but sometimes you just need to escape the hustle and bustle and let the open road lead you to something new.

Want other options? We’ve put together the best road trips from Houston you have to go on this year!

Best Road Trips from Houston TX – How Far Can You Go?

Beach getaways nature escapes history & culture texas hill country charm city adventures, quick hit summary – must-do road trips from houston.

Escape the city and soak up the sun on Galveston Island’s pristine beaches. Explore the historic Strand District, filled with charming shops and Victorian-era architecture. 

For more stops along the way prep for 9 hours or so to check out the rock formations at Palo Duro State Park or take in everything Mother Nature has to offer and hike at Big Bend National Park .

Top Road Trips from Houston – Beach Getaways

Galveston island.

Road Trips from Houston | Image Credit: Galveston Island

Craving salty breezes and sandy toes? Just a quick 50-mile drive from Houston lies Galveston Island, a beach haven. Check out the stringrays and sharks at the Aquarium Pyramid at the Moody Gardens or take a ghost tour on any night here for about 90 minutes – Galveston Island is the perfect weekend getaway for a dose of coastal charm.

How Long : 51 minutes How Far : 50.9 miles Insider Tip : Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach instead of spending money at beachside restaurants. Budget : Low-moderate. Galveston offers many free activities like exploring the Strand District and the beach. Stay in an Airbnb or campground for a budget-friendly experience. Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer pleasant weather without the extreme summer heat and crowds. Best For : Families, couples, and solo travelers alike. 

South Padre Island

South Padre Island is a beach lover’s dream, the perfect escape for a relaxing getaway or a fun-filled adventure. We loved taking the sand castle lessons here where the best way to end the day is with a sunset dinner cruise with fireworks with Southern Wave.

How Long : 5 hours and 44 minutes How Far : 374 miles Insider Tip : Rent a beach umbrella and chairs instead of buying them, especially if your stay is short. Budget : Moderate-high. South Padre Island caters more to tourists with higher accommodation and restaurant costs.  Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) offers the best combination of warm weather and manageable crowds. Best For : Families and couples.

Corpus Christi

Dive into the turquoise waters, build sandcastles on pristine beaches, and watch dolphins frolic alongside your kayak. Corpus Christi offers relaxation and adventure in equal measure, whether you’re exploring stunning underwater reefs or indulging in fresh seafood feasts at restaurants like The Mariner.

How Long : 3 hours and 11 minutes How Far : 208 miles Insider Tip : Take advantage of free museum days and explore the USS Lexington for an educational and unique experience. Budget : Moderate-high. Similar to South Padre Island, Corpus Christi caters to tourists with slightly lower costs due to its larger size. Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer comfortable weather for exploring the city and surrounding beaches. Best For : Families, friends, and travel groups.

Best Road Trips from Houston – Nature Escapes

Sam houston national forest.

Been craving a taste of nature without straying too far from the city? Just a short drive north of Houston lies the Sam Houston National Forest, a verdant escape into rolling pines, sparkling creeks, and abundant wildlife. You can lace up your hiking shoes and make your way through the Lone Star Hiking Trail or choose to visit the Cagle Recreation Area where you can camp with a tent or RV!

How Long : 44 minutes How Far : 47.4 miles Insider Tip : Pack bug spray and wear long sleeves and pants during mosquito season (late spring to early fall).  Budget : Low. Camping or staying in cabins within the park are cost-effective options. Entrance fees are minimal. Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) before the summer heat arrives or Fall (September-November) for cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Best For : Spring (March-May) before the summer heat arrives or Fall (September-November) for cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage.

Caddo Lake State Park

It’s a nature lover’s paradise, perfect for a weekend escape from the city lights at Caddo Lake State Park. While you can bring your own sandwiches and have a picnic here or stay in one of the historic cabins overnight, make sure to read the alligator safety tips before staying at the park! 

How Long : 3 hours and 49 minutes How Far : 235 miles Insider Tip : Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the swampy cypress forests. Be sure to bring binoculars for birdwatching. Budget : Low-moderate. Camping within the park or staying in cabins is affordable. Season to Visit : Fall (October-November) offers comfortable temperatures and vibrant fall foliage. Winter (December-February) is another option for milder weather and potentially fewer crowds. Best For :  Families, couples, and nature enthusiasts. 

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Journey to Palo Duro State Park this year! We recommend the 1-hour trail horseback ride that takes you through the Sad Money Mesa where you have a chance to see road runners, a coyote, and mule deer!

How Long : 9 hours and 3 minutes How Far : 613 miles Insider Tip : Hike through rugged trails carved into the fiery red rock along the Lighthouse Trail and go birdwatching. Budget : Low-moderate. Camping is an affordable option. Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) for comfortable hiking weather. Best For : Active travelers!

Hot Springs National Park

Picture this: being surrounded by lush greenery and historic bathhouses dating back to the 1800s. You can visit the Bathhouse Row and learn about the history of these elegant structures or pay for a massage, hydrotherapy, and spa! Aside from that, the Hot Springs National Park the perfect antidote to city stress, offering top birding spots, photography opportunities, as well as 26 miles of hiking trails.

How Long : 6 hours and 29 minutes How Far : 411 miles Insider Tip : Book your bathhouse reservations in advance, especially during peak season. Budget : Moderate. Accommodation costs vary depending on your desired style. Season to Visit : Fall (September-November) or Spring (March-May) offer pleasant weather for exploring both the bathhouses and the surrounding natural areas. Best For : Fall (September-November) or Spring (March-May) offer pleasant weather for exploring both the bathhouses and the surrounding natural areas.

Lake Charles

Craving Cajun vibes and Creole cuisine? Swap skyscrapers for shrimp shacks on a road trip to Lake Charles! This Louisiana gem, just a 2-hour drive from Houston, is a gateway to marshlands teeming with alligators at the Lake Charles Gator Pond and historic casinos buzzing with excitement like the Golden Nugget. Make sure to get delicious gumbo that warms your soul at Hollier’s Cajun Kitchen!

How Long : 2 hours and 10 minutes How Far : 144 miles Insider Tip : Take advantage of free festivals and events throughout the year, especially during Mardi Gras season for a vibrant experience. Budget : Moderate. Lodging options range from budget-friendly hotels to casinos offering accommodation packages. Season to Visit : Fall (September-November) offers pleasant weather for exploring the outdoors and enjoying festivals. Spring (March-May) is another option with blooming flowers. Best For : All types of travelers. 

Big Bend National Park

Buckle up for the 500-mile adventure to Big Bend National Park, where nature throws punches of rugged beauty. The top trails and mountain peaks to witness include the South Rim Trail, the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, and the Lost Mine Peak. Of course, if you’re not a hiker there are great birdwatching spots and the Langford Hot Springs where you can relax after hours of driving. 

How Long : 9 hours and 42 minutes How Far : 601 miles Insider Tip : Check out the stargazing domes for a magical evening here. Budget :  Park entrance fees and camping options are available.  Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring the park.  Best For :  Active travelers and nature enthusiasts. 

Texas Road Trips from Houston – History & Culture

Road Trips from Houston | Image Credit: City of Huntsville, TX – Government

Craving history and a touch of space magic? Huntsville, a two-hour drive north of Houston, is your ticket! Dive into the fascinating story of Texas at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, then marvel at the artifacts that help us all remember those who served at the H.E.A.R.T.S Veterans Museum of Texas.

How Long : 1 hour and 4 minutes How Far : 70.5 miles Insider Tip : Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the Sam Houston National Forest, which offers scenic overlooks and historical sites. Budget : Low-moderate. Affordable lodging options are available in Huntsville, and many attractions are free or inexpensive. Season to Visit : Fall (September-November) offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities without the summer heat. Spring (March-May) is another option with wildflowers in bloom. Best For : Families, history buffs, and space enthusiasts. 

Craving something a little different? Waco, almost a 3-hour drive from Houston, offers a unique blend of history, quirky charm, and unexpected gems like the Magnolia Market which is perfect for shopping or tasting baked treats from Silos Baking Co. We made sure to visit the Dr Pepper Museum to take part in the soda tasting! It’s one of our favorite and most delicious road trips from Houston.

How Long : 2 hours and 51 minutes How Far : 185 miles Insider Tip : Go on a self-guided tour Budget : Moderate. Lodging options range from budget-friendly hotels to vacation rentals.  Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities. Best For : Families and couples. 

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg whisks you to a taste of Germany in the heart of Texas. Take a self-guided tour at the Pioneer Museum and make sure to bring sunscreen because you’ll be learning about the town’s history outdoors at your own pace. Making the road trip from Houston to Fredericksburg is also something to do for wine lovers! Every Friday and Saturday, the 290 Wine Shuttle leaves downtown and takes you to different Fredericksburg wineries every 10 minutes or so.

How Long : 3 hours and 58 minutes How Far : 236 miles Insider Tip : Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds, especially during peak fall foliage season. Budget : Moderate-high. Fredericksburg is known for its wineries and charming accommodations, which can be pricier than other destinations on this list. Season to Visit : Fall (September-November) offers stunning fall foliage and comfortable temperatures. Best For : Couples and friends.

San Antonio

San Antonio, just a 3-hour drive from Houston, is your cultural and historical haven! Stroll through the Alamo, soak up the vibrant energy of the River Walk, and chow down on mouthwatering barbacoa tacos at Taquitos West Avenue.

How Long : 2 hours and 56 minutes How Far : 197 miles Insider Tip : Purchase a San Antonio CityPASS for discounted entry to popular attractions like the San Antonio Botanical Garden or the Tower of the Americas. Budget : Moderate-high. San Antonio offers various lodging options, but popular attractions and peak seasons can lead to higher costs. Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer comfortable weather for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and historical sites. Best For : All types of travelers. 

New Orleans

New Orleans pulsates with infectious jazz rhythms, mouthwatering beignets, and Mardi Gras spirit around every corner. Explore the French Quarter’s colorful balconies and events at the Preservation Hall or wander through voodoo shops like Voodoo Spell and historic cemeteries after making one of the best road trips from Houston! Fuel up at Cajun Dragon Grill with some Spicy Boudin Eggrolls or the Spicy Seafood with Duck and Sausages Gumbo.

How Long : 5 hours and 16 minutes How Far : 348 miles Insider Tip : Research and pack comfortable walking shoes, as exploring the French Quarter and other areas is best done on foot. Budget : Moderate-high. New Orleans offers diverse lodging options, but factor in potential meal costs, especially during festivals like Mardi Gras. Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer comfortable weather for exploring the city, enjoying outdoor activities, and participating in festivals. Best For : Adults and culturally curious travelers. 

Road Trips from Houston | Image Credit: City of Beaumont – Government

Ditch the highway and weave through charming Southeast Texas towns on this laid-back hour drive! Love history? The McFaddin-Ward House Historic Museum and Chambers House Museum are centers of Beaumont’s past where you can take a step back and get a glimpse of the original decor and architecture of the historic homes and imagine what life was like in the 1920s.

How Long : 1 hour and 18 minutes How Far : 84.9 miles Insider Tip : Visit Spindletop Park to learn about the history of the Texas oil boom and enjoy scenic views from the Gladys City Boomtown replica. Budget :  Low-moderate. Affordable lodging options are available in Beaumont. Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer comfortable weather for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities. Best For : Families, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts.

Houston Road Trips – Texas Hill Country Charm

Texas hill country.

Escape the bustling Houston heat and dive into the heart of the Texas Hill Country, a region brimming with charm, adventure, and delicious bites. Start your adventure by scaling the 425-foot pink granite of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Next, cool off with a float down the Guadalupe River! Rent a tube or soak up the sun before heading down to Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que.

How Long : 4 hours and 23 minutes How Far : 288 miles Insider Tip : Purchase a Texas Hill Country Passport for discounted entry to wineries, museums, and other attractions. Budget : Moderate-high. Lodging options range from budget-friendly motels to luxury cabins.  Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) offers pleasant weather and beautiful wildflowers. Best For : Couples, families, and friends

This historic town in the heart of Texas Hill Country brims with colorful murals, antique shops, and craft breweries. Have lunch at La Jefa Homestyle Birria, a food truck that has chicken flautas, a must-try!

How Long : 1 hour and 10 minutes How Far : 76 miles Insider Tip : When in Brenham, you have to stop by Blue Bell Creamery and take the self-guided tour before grabbing a scoop of chocolate chip cookie dough. Budget : Low-moderate. Brenham offers a variety of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and charming bed and breakfasts. Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the town and surrounding areas. Best For : Families and couples.

Wimberley is about a 3-hour escape from Houston’s urban jungle, trading skyscrapers for cypress trees and concrete for winding rivers. Indulge in some well-deserved rest at Cypress Falls Lodge after the drive. You can have s’mores by the bonfire or go stargazing here!

How Long : 2 hours and 56 minutes How Far : 182 miles Insider Tip : Pack swimwear and towels to enjoy the cool waters of Cypress Falls Swimming Hole. Budget : Moderate. Lodging options range from vacation rentals and campgrounds to bed and breakfasts. Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer comfortable weather for outdoor activities like swimming and exploring the town. Best For : All types of travelers. 

Cities Near Houston to Visit – City Adventures

Road Trips from Houston | Image Credit: City of Fort Worth

Craving a taste of cowboy culture? Then saddle up for a 260-mile road trip to Fort Worth, the beating heart of Texas’ western heritage. Don’t forget to try the Bourbon Butterscotch at Avoca Coffee Roasters!

How Long : 3 hours and 50 minutes How Far : 262 miles Insider Tip : Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District during the daytime to experience the cattle drives and historical reenactments. Budget : Moderate. Lodging options range from budget-friendly hotels to historic inns.  Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer pleasant weather for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions like museums and gardens. Best For :  Families, couples, and history buffs. 

New Braunfels

Trade city sights for river rapids on a trip to New Braunfels, just a 2-hour drive from Houston! New Braunfels is a haven for water lovers with tubing at the Comal River a great way to spend the day and the Schlitterbahn’s Waterpark which doubles as a resort!

How Long : 2 hours and 42 minutes How Far : 175 miles Insider Tip :  Pack water shoes for tubing down the Guadalupe River, a popular activity in the area. Budget : Moderate. Lodging options range from budget-friendly hotels to vacation rentals and campgrounds. Season to Visit : Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) offer comfortable weather for enjoying the outdoors, including tubing and exploring the town.  Best For :  Families, couples, and friends.

Put Austin on your Houston road trip itinerary! Don’t be surprised if you stumble upon a funky art installation or a mouthwatering food truck like Everest Momo during your wanderings – Austin’s always brimming with surprises! If you have the time and company that’s game, check out the Playground escape room at The Escape Game Austin.

How Long : 2 hours and 38 minutes How Far : 162 miles Insider Tip : Take advantage of Austin’s vibrant live music scene. Catch free shows at bars and restaurants or purchase tickets for bigger acts. Budget : Moderate-high. Austin is a popular tourist destination, so lodging and dining can be more expensive than other Texas cities. Season to Visit :  Fall (September-November) offers pleasant weather for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying live music on patios.  Best For : All types of travelers. 

Stay on top of all the fun events and activities in Houston with our weekly updates to Things to Do in Houston this Weekend and Things to Do in Houston with Kids this Weekend !

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About The Author

Kathryn Yacovodonato

Kathryn Yacovodonato is a REALTOR® and Writer based in Houston, Texas. When not clicking away at her keyboard, you can find her enjoying art, literature, fine cuisine, baseball, red wine, and all things Houston.

These are all interesting but you left out an entire area just an hour’s drive to the northwest. Be sure to check out Brenham, Round Top, Burton, Chappell Hill and Carmine! Eat and shop in Round Top and go to a classical concert at Festival Hill! Go enjoy craft beer (BVB) or locally roasted coffee (Independence Coffee) in Brenham while listening to live music at Home Sweet Farm, 4 Star Concert Hall or city sponsored Hot Nights Cool Tunes every Saturday in July! Eat delicious barbecue at Truth or LJ’s! If you are a cyclist, get your bike out on the country roads.

Thank you so much for this article. It has officially molded the summer for my kids and grandkids! It’s economical, educational and there’s something for everyone. I look forward to exploring my home state of Texas with my family.

Thanks Kat!?

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7 Epic Texas Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

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

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

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

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.

Unforgettable Texas Road Trip Ideas

Austin to san antonio loop.

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

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

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

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

Recommended Road Trip Length

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

Small Hill Country Towns + Outdoor Adventures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wide Open Spaces in West Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dallas Loop Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gulf Coast Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Piney Woods Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tricks + Tips for Road Trips in Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Texans drive fast, so be prepared!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Glad to hear it, Fred! Enjoy Texas 🙂

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3 unique road trips you can take from Houston in 4 hours or less

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Houston is one of the top five most populated U.S. cities, with a population of more than 2 million residents. Within Houston , you've got immediate access to a diverse collection of top-notch cuisine, the Space Center and NASA, world-class museums, large outdoor spaces, major league sporting teams and more.

But -- sometimes, no matter how much you have to do in your own backyard, you need a change of scenery and a break from lots of people .

Texas is a pretty massive state at around 800 miles across, so unlike in the Northeast, if you want to limit your driving distance to an easy four hours or so in each direction, you probably aren't crossing the state lines for this particular road trip . Within a four-hour drive from Houston, technically you could reach some of Louisiana and come within an hour or so of getting to Arkansas or Oklahoma, but more than likely, you are staying in the Lone Star State.

With that in mind, here are three very different road trips within Texas that you can take from Houston on less than a tank of gas.

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Texas Hill Country

Distance from Houston : 3 hours

What to do: Get ready to unplug, put your feet in the cold water and crack open a cool drink.

In the Texas Hill Country, you can enjoy the lakes, rivers and hikes in small Central Texas towns such as Wimberley, New Braunsfels, Canyon Lake, Fredericksburg and Luckenbach.

Wineries are abundant in this area, as are can't-miss swimming holes . As far as swimming holes go, in Wimberley, you'll find Blue Hole (great for hanging out and rope swinging) and Jacob's Well (great for jumping in from rocks above). About 30-miles west of Austin , you'll find Hamilton Pool, another top-notch place to cool down in the Hill Country.

But all in all, for a true getaway, I'm partial to Wimberley, where you can stay away from it all on the Blanco River in a cabin and then easily walk into town for a meal and shopping at local, independent retailers when you decide you need a dose of civilization.

Then, when you want to take in the view, walk up the 218 rock steps of Old Baldy to get a breathtaking aerial view of the area.

An added benefit is you've now probably worked off enough calories to have an extra snack or drink, which are in abundant supply.

Where to stay: Book a cabin that ranges from one to three bedrooms at The Waters Point in Wimberley. Prices usually range from $200–$400 per night.

At one of these cabins, such as the two-bedroom Pioneer Cabin pictured above, you will have private access to a half-mile of the Blanco River, but you can also walk right into town or make the three-minute drive over to Blue Hole to swing into the blue water below.

While it's very different from Wimberley, if you want a taste of the Hill Country on hotel points, you can check out Hyatt Lost Pines Resort in Bastrop for 20,000 World of Hyatt points per night or the Hyatt Regency Hill Country outside San Antonio for 15,000 Hyatt points per night or by using a Category 1–4 award you get each year you have the World of Hyatt Credit Card.

Where to eat and drink: If you head to Wimberley, absolutely don't miss dinner from the Leaning Pear (open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner). We loved everything we tried but gave the highest marks to the wood-fired pizza, Leaning Pear house salad, fried avocado tostada and fried brussels sprouts.

Also, be sure and pick up some breakfast pastries next to the Leaning Pear from the Sugar Shack Bakery. That way, you'll have them at the ready for when you wake up the next morning. (Get the cinnamon and sugar croissants if they have them in stock!) If you want a meal with live music by the river in Wimberley, check out Ino'z.

Related: Best credit cards for eating out

Bolivar Peninsula

Distance: 1.5 hours, depending on the ferry schedule or if you make the drive through Winnie without the ferry

What to do: You head to the 27-mile stretch of beach on the Bolivar Peninsula from Houston because you want to go to see, hear or touch the waves without spending all day in the car to head to a further afield stretch of beach. To get to Bolivar, you can take a longer drive around to avoid the ferry, or you can take a free 2.7-mile ferry ride from Galveston to the peninsula that carries both vehicles or pedestrians. Either way, you're a world away from the city in a hurry.

Many visitors to Bolivar rent golf carts and cruise up and down the shoreline. You can also go fishing from the beach or in the bay.

Where to stay: You'll probably want to rent a beach house if you plan on spending the night in Crystal Beach or one of the other portions of Bolivar. And this may be a surprise if you haven't been to Bolivar in a while, but many of the beach houses are really, really nice and on the newer side. In 2008, Hurricane Ike all but destroyed Bolivar, wiping out thousands of homes, taking lives and bringing with it over 100-mile-per-hour winds and a massive storm surge. It was a horrific event for the Texas Gulf Coast.

Now, more than a decade later, there are new beach houses dotting the shore, many of which are available for rent from local rental companies or on sites such as Airbnb and VRBO.

If you really want to use your points, instead of Bolivar, you can stay in Galveston and redeem 30,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night at the historic, beachfront Hotel Galvez. Another option near the ferry landing in Galveston is a Homewood Suites by Hilton that can be booked from around 30,000 Hilton Honors points per night .

But really, for a true Bolivar experience, go for a beach house rental if you can.

Related: How to find the perfect home rental

Where to eat and drink: Have you really been to Bolivar if you didn't order a basket of Gulf Coast fried shrimp at Stingarees ? Arguably not. Stinagree is located in Crystal Beach on the Intracoastal Canal and is known for its seafood, cold drinks, live music and epic sunsets. My family can't go to Bolivar without a stop (or two) at Stinagree. Bonus points if some tugs and barges go by during your meal.

Another popular spot for a meal on Bolivar is Steve's Landing, where my family can vouch for the shrimp and grits. For some quick breakfast items when you don't feel like flipping your own pancakes, check out Dannay's Donuts or Third Coast Coffee.

Related: One of the world's largest cruise ships is heading to Galveston

San Antonio

Distance: 3 hours west on I-10

What to do: San Antonio is only a three-hour drive from Houston (OK, that's when there's no traffic), but it feels like a world away. There's no shortage of things to do, see and eat in San Antonio, but you'd certainly be remiss if you didn't spend some time on the Riverwalk in downtown San Antonio. An easy, fun way to get a sense of where you are is to take a narrated riverboat cruise up and down the river. Then, you have to get some chips, dip, tacos and perhaps a cold margarita.

Also near the Riverwalk is the world-famous Alamo, and while it's certainly worth a visit, it is far from the only mission in the area. The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park has four separate mission sites you can visit during your stay.

And, if all of that above-ground exploring gets too hot (and it really might in the summer), you can head underground to Natural Bridge Caverns that takes you up to 180 feet below the surface, where it stays around 70 degrees all year long.

For some more indoor, air-conditioned activities for the family in San Antonio, you can check out the DoSeum, which is geared for kids up to about age 10. For the older crew, the Witte Museum gets high marks and is even free on Tuesday evenings, if you can time your visit right.

Where to stay: There are many hotels on or near the Riverwalk. You can use Marriott points to book a room at the historic St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection property, for 30,000 to 40,000 Marriott points per night . The Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk isn't quite as luxe, but it is in a great location for 12,000 Hyatt points per night. If you want a bit more resort with your trip to the San Antonio area, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort is just outside the city, complete with a lazy river, a waterslide, shaded pools and more.

Where to eat: You must eat some Tex-Mex while in San Antonio and you'll have plenty of options in that arena. Some popular options include La Margarita, Mi Tierra (open 24 hours and has a bakery) and the prickly pear margarita at Boudro's basically has its own fan club.

If you are craving chicken wings, Cullum's Attagirl has a wide assortment of flavor choices. TPG's Benet Wilson swears by the Nashville hot and the peanut butter and jelly (it shouldn't work, but she says it totally does). For a sweet treat, Bird Bakery also gets high marks for its cupcakes and cookies.

Bottom line

If you're in Houston and have a tank of gas at the ready, there are almost limitless experiences, vastly different from city life, just waiting within a few hours' drive. From the cold rivers and shady trees of the Hill Country to the hot salsa and vibrant culture in San Antonio and the lazy afternoons at the beach in Bolivar, there's no need to spend all your time in Texas underneath the shadow of the Houston skyscrapers -- get out there and explore.

Texas road trip - The ultimate 1 week itinerary

Howdy, welcome to Texas! As the second largest state in the United States in terms of both area and population, there's a near infinite amount of things to see in Texas, making it the perfect destination for an epic road trip.

While there are lots of different Texas road trip routes you could take, our seven day round-trip itinerary covers all the big cities, hitting up Austin, San Antonio, Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth, as well as a detour through the picturesque Hill Country.

Before we launch into the trip, a quick word on driving in Texas. The car is king here, so expect to rely on your car in cities as well as to drive between them. Although this may sound annoying, it means that the roads are really clear and easy to navigate, and that there's usually ample inner city parking, making travelling by car a doddle.

Other than that everything else is pretty self-explanatory, so just get stuck in to your trip and enjoy!

Day 1: Austin - go sightseeing, take a dip in the Barton Springs Municipal Pool, & eat classic Texas BBQ food

The vibrant city of Austin is the first stop on your Texas road trip, and it's the ideal place to start and end your round trip itinerary.

As well as having a large international airport that's well-connected to the rest of the U.S. and London Heathrow, it's an amazing cultural hub to introduce you to the buzzing atmosphere you'll find throughout your Texas itinerary.

Aim to land some time in the morning and take today pretty slowly - you'll be back in Austin on day 7, so don't feel pressured to cover everything if you're feeling jet-lagged or worn out from your journey.

Travel tip: Pick up your car straight away at the airport - you'll appreciate having it to visit some of today's sights.

Fly into Austin, get settled at your hotel then head to the Texas State Capitol Building

After a quick relax at your hotel, head to the famous Texas State Capitol Building for your first taste of Austin

This magnificent building is the seat of government for the state of Texas, and is a stunning piece of 19th-century architecture that's a true symbol of the Lone Star State.

Located on a hill overlooking downtown Austin, its dome pokes through the rooftops and contrasts beautifully with the ultra-modern skyscrapers that surround it.

Picturesque grounds also wrap around the building, scattered with statues and monuments shaded by leafy trees and plants.

After you've enjoyed the outside, the best way to make the most of the inside is to take a free tour with a knowledgeable guide who'll be able to tell you all about Texan history and legislature, as well as the architecture itself.

Tours depart every 30 to 45 minutes from the south foyer and last around 30 minutes, running between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 3.30pm on Saturdays, and 12.00pm to 3.30pm on Sundays.

Have a lazy lunch then visit the Cathedral of Junk

The second attraction we're sending you to in Austin is very quirky and off-the-beaten-track, which means it's practically guaranteed to be unforgettable.

Have a lazy lunch at a cafe or restaurant that takes your fancy (save the BBQ food for later), then head to the Cathedral of Junk - an epic sculpture made entirely of - you guessed it - junk.

Located in a suburban backyard, this crazy art installation is the work of artist Vince Hannemann, and its cathedral-esque structure is made up of tangles of bicycles, household appliances, toys, CDs, and pretty much anything and everything - you name it, you'll probably be able to find it somewhere in the structure.

Although it may just look like a pile of junk at first glance, it's actually really intricately made and surprisingly thought-provoking. (You know what they say about 'one man's trash'!)

Make sure you go inside and look up to the spire-shaped roof to get the full cathedral experience, and interpret the artistic message however you see fit. We like to think it's there to make people stop and think about waste and consumerism.

You'll find the Cathedral of Junk at 4422 Lareina Drive, and owing to the fact that it's a home on a quiet residential street, it's vital you call ahead and make an appointment if you want to drop by. Call (512) 299-7413 to arrange a time.

The experience is free to enjoy, however there's a suggested donation of $10 per group to support its upkeep and continuous construction.

The easiest way to get there (and then to the pool afterwards) is to hop in your hire car and drive.

Bear in mind, however, that you won't be able to park on Lareina Drive, so pay attention to parking signs and find a spot on a nearby side street.

Alternatively you could have lunch at nearby Casa Maria before your visit - there's ample parking there and the Tex-Mex is great!

Drive to Barton Springs Municipal Pool for the rest of the afternoon

The Barton Springs Municipal Pool is around 20 minutes north of the Cathedral of Junk, so it should be easy to get there with enough time for a swim before it gets dark.

If you're travelling in the colder months don't be put off from taking a dip as this three-acre natural pool is fed by underground springs, meaning the water stays at a toasty 20ºC (68ºF) all year round.

Plus, temperatures in Austin tend to be pretty mild throughout the year anyway, so there's really nothing stopping you.

As well as being a lovely place for a swim and a sunbathe, the water is home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander, so it's a pretty important feature of Austin's landscape.

For this reason, the pool is closed every Thursday from 9am to 7pm to clean and maintain the water, so ideally day 1 of your trip should fall on a different day so you don't miss out.

Admission to the pool costs $9 for adults, and note that lifeguards are only on duty some of the time, so make sure you take care when in the water and keep an eye on any children you're travelling with.

Watch the sunset and the bats from the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge

Make it back to your hotel with enough time to freshen up and head back out to the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge before the sun sets - trust us, you won't want to be late.

This unassuming bridge over the Colorado River comes alive at sunset between March and October, when hundreds of bats fly out from underneath the bridge and are beautifully silhouetted against the orange glow of the sky.

Following the 1980 redesign of the bridge, the structure includes lots of perfectly bat-sized crevices where the animals live and give birth to their pups.

If you're travelling in August, you'll get to see the pups emerge for the first time too, virtually doubling the cloud of bats flying against the pastel-hued sky.

The walkway on the east side of the bridge has the best view, but if you want to sit down it's also possible to spread out a blanket on the riverbank below. If you choose the latter, however, beware that you're more likely to get hit by bat poo!

And even if you're visiting outside of bat season, it's still worth heading to the bridge for the sunset view before you go for dinner.

Have a classic Texas BBQ feast at Black's Barbecue

It would be wrong not to kick off your Texas food adventure with some classic BBQ goods, so stroll north from the bridge to Black's Barbecue to work up an appetite.

This family-owned BBQ joint is currently run by the third generation of the Black family, and all the meat is still smoked using traditional methods developed by the very first generation.

Using a simple rub, oak wood, and a whole lot of patience, this restaurant cooks up some of the finest cuts of meat in town.

Classic brisket, ribs, and turkey are all on the menu, along with sides including beans, potato salad, and mac and cheese. The sides, however, are the only veggie options on the menu, so definitely opt for somewhere else if you're travelling with any vegetarians.

Those that do eat here, expect to leave very full, very happy, and very ready to retire to bed.

Day 2: Austin to San Antonio via the Hill Country - drive through the Hill Country, stopping to visit Hamilton Pool Preserve, Bandera & go horseback riding

The aim of day 2 is to get from Austin to San Antonio, and we're taking you on a detour through the Hill Country to make the most of the stunning Texan landscapes - there's more to it than big cities!

This beautiful area of rolling hills, glittering streams and tall oak trees is just a stone's throw from both Austin and San Antonio, and it's a great area for some scenic driving and cowboy culture.

Travel tip: If you're travelling in spring, look out for the colourful bluebonnet flowers that pop up all over the Hill Country. Peak season is from March to mid-April.

Drive west to Hamilton Pool Preserve

We're sticking with the swimming theme for your first stop by sending you to Hamilton Pool.

This nature reserve features a 50-foot waterfall plunging into a beautiful natural blue pool, fringed by rugged rocks and trees; and yes, it's absolutely as idyllic as it sounds.

Unlike Barton Springs Pool, the water here is pretty cold so you'll probably only want to swim if you're visiting in summer. However it's still a really pretty place to stop off on your way through the Hill Country.

There are a couple of things to note when visiting Hamilton Pool Preserve, the first being that you have to reserve and pay for a time to go before you arrive.

Although this may sound fussy, it does mean that it never gets too crowded, which is good for both you and the preservation of the stunning natural environment.

There's two sessions - one in the morning and one in the afternoon - and entry costs $11 per person, with an additional $15 charged per vehicle on arrival.

It's also important to note that swimming isn't always allowed. This is because excessive rainfall or a change in the levels of bacteria present in the water can make it unsafe, so make sure you check online before you arrive.

One final thing to be aware of is that the pool is around a half an hour hike from the car park and includes some uneven surfaces and steps, so do come prepared with comfortable shoes, and consider opting out if you have mobility issues.

With the technicalities out the way, just enjoy this stunning area for an hour or two, exploring the pool's surroundings, relaxing in the sun, and going for a dip (if you're brave enough).

Travel tip: If the weather's not great, the pool's all booked up, or you just don't fancy going to the pool, you could always drive a little further and visit the Enchanted Rock instead.

This pink granite mound rises above the green plains of the Hill Country and is a lovely place for a walk and a breath of fresh air - just remember to wrap up warm if you decide to climb to the top, as it can get pretty chilly!

Head back to the car and drive south to Bandera

Your next stop in the Hill Country is Bandera, which is roughly 105 miles from the pool.

It'll probably take you the best part of two hours to get there, so if you're feeling peckish you might want to stop off for lunch or pick up some snacks in Fredericksburg on the way.

Hopefully you'll arrive in Bandera in the early/ mid afternoon, giving you plenty of time to experience it's rustic Texan charm.

As the self-proclaimed 'Cowboy Capital of Texas', this is the place to go if you're looking for real life cowboys, dude ranches, rodeos, and honky-tonk clubs.

This town is true to its roots, embracing traditional southern U.S. culture without being bombarded by franchised restaurants and shops, so a visit here is a must if you want to get a feel for the genuine cowboy way of life.

There aren't many specific sights to see here, so just spend some time walking around and getting a feel for the quintessentially Texan culture. Walking down the Main Street is a great place to start, as it's lined with lots of bustling shops, bars, and restaurants.

One shop you should definitely peek into is Bandera General Store, a shop selling everything from cowboy boots and hats to gifts, BBQ sauces and ice cream.

The store even has one of only 11 original soda fountains left in the whole of Texas, so if you're in need of an old-school thirst-quencher after your drive, this is the place to go.

Head to Silver Spur Ranch to go horseback riding

Kit yourself out with cowboy attire, hop back in the car and drive 15 minutes down the road to Silver Spur Ranch to go horseback riding. This historic ranch is the ideal place to embrace the last of the Hill Country before you head to San Antonio.

The ranch offers one -hour rides for $45 or two-hour rides for $80 (plus a $5 parking fee), so don your blue jeans, saddle up, and prepare to release your inner cowboy (or girl).

Drive on to San Antonio and have dinner on the Riverwalk

By the time you've arrived in San Antonio and checked into your hotel it will probably be the evening, so make your way to the Riverwalk for a relaxing dinner to top off the day.

This charming portion of the city is made up of walkways that run along the San Antonio River, and is lined with loads of amazing bars and restaurants.

The Riverwalk comes alive with glittering lights at night, so pick a restaurant with tables overlooking the water so you can soak up the atmosphere. You'll be back on day 3 to explore properly, so don't feel guilty about prioritising food this evening.

We've got two restaurant suggestions to give you some inspiration... just avoid Tex-Mex as you'll be feasting on that tomorrow.

Boudro's - Texas bistro Boudro's is a popular spot on the Riverwalk, and serves up hearty seafood and speciality meat dishes as well as soups, salads, and mouth-watering appetisers. Be sure to order their legendary tableside guacamole which they prepare as you watch - you can't get much fresher than this!

Ocho - Situated in a glass conservatory overlooking the river, Ocho wins top marks for location and delicious food. Dishes here draw on both Latin and Texan influences, so expect some really interesting flavour combinations and heaps of old-world charm. They also sell some of the best Margaritas in San Antonio in downstairs Havana Bar, so definitely check that out after your meal.

Stick around for a drink and a stroll along the Riverwalk, then head back to your hotel and call it a night - it's been a long day!

Day 3: San Antonio - visit the Alamo, browse the Historic Market Square & relax in the Japanese Tea Garden

Have a stroll along the riverwalk in daylight, then visit the alamo.

Kick off day 3 with a morning stroll along the Riverwalk. While by night the walk was buzzing with bars and eateries, by day it's a lovely relaxed place for a stroll, with lots of lush foliage and pretty buildings fringing the water.

Have an early morning wander, grab a quick coffee, then head to the Alamo for the rest of the morning.

Officially called the Alamo Mission (or the Misión de Álamo in Spanish), the building dates back to the 18th century and was one of the early Spanish missions in Texas to educate the American Indians on becoming Christian.

It later became a fortress and was famously the site of the Battle of the Alamo against the Mexican Army in 1836. It's essentially a monument that sums up Texan heritage and the bravery of the heroes who refused to surrender during the battle.

Today it's a really interesting historical site to visit, with a beautiful church, a Long Barrack housing an informative exhibition on the site's history, and lovely grounds with a fountain, courtyard and loads of green space to enjoy.

Entry to the Alamo is free, however it relies on donations, so dropping a few dollars into one of the collection pots is encouraged.

Head to the Historic Market Square for lunch

You'll have worked up an appetite after your morning of sightseeing, so make your way to the Historic Market Square for some lunch and a browse; it's around a 20-minute walk west of the Alamo (or a few minutes in the car).

One of the largest Mexican markets outside of Mexico, this lively outdoor plaza is home to over 100 locally-owned stalls and shops selling traditional Talavera pottery, colourful clothing, and handcrafted gifts.

You'll also find traditional music and performances in the market, transporting you straight to Mexico City.

Before you have a proper browse of the stalls, turn your attention to the food on offer and grab some lunch - the market celebrates the best of San Antonio's incredible Tex-Mex scene.

Grab some tacos and craft beer from Viva Villa Taqueria followed by a sweet treat from Mi Tierra Cafe and Bakery, then spend some time looking around, soaking up the atmosphere and buying a few souvenirs.

Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at the Japanese Tea Garden

You've explored Spanish culture at the Alamo and experienced Mexican traditions at the Historic Market Square, now it's time for some Japanese heritage at the Japanese Tea Garden.

Located in Brackenridge Park towards the north of the city (you'll probably want to drive), this serene garden brings an unexpected slice of Japan to Texas and is a really beautiful yet underrated attraction to visit.

The garden was originally a rock quarry before being converted into the Japanese Tea Garden in 1917, with walkways, stone bridges, and a traditional pagoda all filling the space.

After extensive restoration between 2005 and 2011, the garden is now home to exotic plants, Japanese Koi fish, and the historic Jinju house.

Take your time enjoying the garden, making sure to check out the stone Pavilion, lily ponds, and waterfall before popping into Jingu House Cafe for a cup of tea to rest your legs; we'd recommend you spend an hour or two making the most of this serene oasis in the heart of the city.

If you've had enough of the garden and still have some time to spare before evening falls, Brackenridge Park is also home to San Antonio Zoo, a golf course and a botanical garden, so there's plenty more to occupy your time.

Have dinner then head to the Pearl District for a drink

Switch back to Texan culture for the evening and grab some dinner before heading to the Pearl District for a drink. This neighbourhood, built from the repurposed Pearl Brewery, is quickly becoming one of the city's trendiest areas.

Either honour the district's past and opt for a pint of one of Southerleigh Brewery's unique craft beers (look out for the quirky names, including 'Texas Uncommon Ale' and 'Koalas, Cocker Spaniels and Unicorns'), or head to Jazz Tx for a classy cocktail and live music.

Whichever you choose, both sum up this neighbourhood perfectly and are a great way to round off your San Antonio itinerary before you move on to Houston in the morning.

Day 4: San Antonio to Houston - drive to Houston, visit the Space Center & explore the city

Drive straight to space center houston.

The drive to Houston from San Antonio takes around three hours and 45 minutes, so you'll want to hit the road as soon as possible after breakfast to arrive at Space Center Houston in the late morning.

World renowned for being the home of NASA Mission Control, it would be wrong not to visit the Space Center on your Houston stop off. Book tickets well in advance to avoid the queues and get stuck in.

This fun and informative centre focuses on teaching its visitors all about space travel, with over 400 space artefacts, loads of exciting exhibitions and interactive displays, and actual flown spacecraft and replicas to explore.

As you can probably tell there's a lot to see here, which could easily cover the rest of the day, so if you're not too fussed about looking around Houston itself feel free to dedicate this leg of the journey exclusively to all things space.

If you'd rather keep some of your afternoon free, we'd advise spending around three hours here and prioritising the areas of the centre you'd like to see most.

Here's a list of what to expect on your visit so you can start planning:

NASA Tram Tour - A trip on the centre's tram will take you on a tour of the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) for a behind-the-scenes look at space exploration. Features include a tour of the astronaut training facility, a look around the historic Mission Operations Control Room (from which NASA led the iconic first lunar landing) and a trip to Rocket Park.

International Space Station Gallery - This interactive gallery offers an insight into the technologies and role of the International Space Station (ISS) and what it's like to live in space, as well as presenting artefacts that have been worn or used during real ISS missions.

Starship Gallery - This area of the Space Center is home to multiple flown spacecraft including Apollo 17 (which made the last Apollo mission to the moon), and Gemini V (which took two astronauts to the moon during the Cold War). Here you'll also be able to touch a piece of genuine moonstone - pretty cool if you ask us.

Independence Plaza - This is definitely one of the centre's highlights. In the Independence Plaza you'll have the opportunity to enter the shuttle replica Independence, which is mounted on top of the original NASA 905 shuttle carrier aircraft. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience being on a shuttle, so definitely make sure you squeeze this attraction in.

Mission Mars - This interactive exhibition gives you a feel for what it's like to travel to Mars. Experience a virtual Martian sunset, touch a Mars rock, and look inside a full-size Orion capsule to understand the colossal journey astronauts will have to make to this intriguing planet.

Astronaut Gallery - Home to one of the largest collections of spacesuits in the world, this gallery has examples on display used for everything from training drills to actual moon walks. The main suits to look out for are definitely those worn by the first two American women to go into space; they symbolise some pretty iconic moments in the history of space travel.

Tickets cost $29.95 and include admission to all of the above exhibitions.

Make your way into Houston and spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the city

If you've finished at the Space Center with some time to spare, drive into Houston and spend some time getting to know the city.

This buzzing metropolis is the most populous city in Texas, home to world-class restaurants, captivating art, an incredible shopping scene and a lively nightlife.

You'll probably be quite museumed-out after your epic visit to the Space Center, so we'd suggest just spending some time walking around the city at a leisurely pace.

Be sure to stroll through a portion of the downtown underground tunnels (a network of climate-controlled walkways connecting hotels, banks, shops and government offices), take a look at the octagonal Rothko Chapel, and snap a photo of the statue of Sam Houston (an important leader of the Texan revolution) in Hermann Park at sunset.

Go for dinner at The Pass & Provisions

When you start to feel those hunger pangs, make your way to The Pass & Provisions for dinner (the best way to get there is to hop in your hire car as the restaurant has both self-parking and a complimentary valet service available).

This two-in-one restaurant offers you a choice between a refined tasting menu served in the formal dining room of The Pass, or a more relaxed and informal experience at Provisions; it's up to you which you go for.

At The Pass, expect an intricate five-course tasting menu ($65) of fresh seasonal ingredients which you can pair with the perfect drink to accompany each course ($110).

The dishes are varied and exciting, and there's also the option to have a vegetarian version of the menu if you want to.

Provisions is more of a hearty affair, with comforting bowls of pasta, indulgent pizzas, and rustic bistro plates served up in a more laid-back environment.

The food is still pretty fancy (think squid ink pasta and duck confit pizza), but on less of a fine-dining level than The Pass.

Enjoy your meal, have a cocktail or two (Provisions) or a glass of wine from their extensive list (The Pass), then head back to your hotel and relax.

Day 5: Houston to Dallas - drive to Dallas, explore the Arts District, discover the history of John F. Kennedy's assassination, & have dinner at the top of Reunion Tower

The drive from Houston to Dallas is another long stretch (around three and a half hours), so drag yourself out of bed for one more early morning to arrive with some sightseeing time before lunch.

Go for a stroll around the Arts District and visit the Dallas Museum of Art or Nasher Sculpture Centre

Spend what's left of the morning having a look around the Dallas Arts District.

Said to be the largest arts district in the country, this area has loads of different arty sights to look at, so have a walk around and pick somewhere to go inside.

We'd recommend opting for either (or both) the Dallas Museum of Art, which houses over 22,000 pieces from the third millennium BC to the present day, or the Nasher Sculpture Centre, which has one of the best collections of contemporary sculptures in the world.

Admission to the Dallas Museum of Art is free, and costs $10 for the Nasher Sculpture Centre.

After you've had your art fix, grab some lunch (both museums have really nice cafes), then swap artwork for history as you make your way to Dealey Plaza for the afternoon.

Head to Dealey Plaza and learn about President John F. Kennedy's assassination

Although it may not be the cheeriest claim to fame, one of the things Dallas is most famous for is being the site of 35th U.S. President John F. Kennedy's assassination in 1963, and it's an important fragment of history to learn about during your visit.

JFK was fatally shot in Dealey Plaza in Downtown Dallas while riding in an open top car with his wife and then-Texas Governor John Connally. There are a couple of different attractions to visit here related to his death.

The first place to visit is the Sixth Floor Museum, located on the sixth floor of what used to be the Texas School Book Depository, in the very spot where Lee Harvey Oswald is thought to have fired the fatal shots.

The museum examines the life, death, and legacy of the president through historic film clips (including the chilling Zapruder Film of the assassination), artefacts, photographs, and informative displays detailing the events and aftermath of the shooting.

You can even stand in the exact place that Oswald is thought to have pulled the trigger.

With all the conspiracy theories that surround JFK's death, this museum is a fascinating place to get to grips with the full story and speculate about what you think really happened to the President that day.

Entry to the museum costs $18, and it's a good idea to book online in advance.

Once you're clued-up on the facts, head to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza to pay your respects - it's all too easy to get caught up in the theories of what happened and overlook the fact that these exhibitions are there to pay homage to the President's death, not just his story.

The plaza is home to a simple concrete memorial designed by architect and Kennedy family friend Philip Johnson, which is intended to be an enclosed space of refuge away from the bustle of the city.

Its design is a cenotaph, a kind of empty tomb, symbolising the freedom of JFK's spirit, and it's accompanied by some words inscribed into granite squares in the plaza (we'll leave you to discover this epitaph for yourself).

Take your time visiting these monuments, then head to the nearby Commissary Cafe for coffee and cake before having a final wander around downtown Dallas.

Travel tip : Go and visit the Giant Eyeball and the Cattle Drive sculptures in Pioneer Plaza - they're pretty epic sights that'll lift your mood after that sombre afternoon.

Go for dinner at the top of Reunion Tower

After relaxing at your hotel for a bit, head to the Reunion Tower for dinner. This futuristic building is topped with a distinctive glowing ball that offers incredible 360-degree views of the city.

Reserve a table at Five Sixty , a restaurant located right at the top of the tower, where they serve up contemporary Asian dishes and a great selection of exotic beers and sake to accompany your meal.

Aside from the food, one of the best bits about this restaurant is that the whole dining room rotates as you eat, meaning that you really do get to enjoy 360-degree views without even leaving your seat - a dreamy way to celebrate your Texas road trip so far.

Have a long and slow dinner so you get to soak up the views for as long as possible, then make your way back to your hotel and call it a night.

Day 6: Dallas to Fort Worth - drive to Fort Worth to explore its modern art scene & cowboy heritage

Have a lie-in and brunch in dallas then drive to fort worth.

Have a slow start to day 6 - your itinerary has been super busy so far, so you definitely deserve a lie in!

When you're ready, head to All Good Cafe in the Deep Ellum neighbourhood for a hearty brunch.

The menu here has everything from fluffy buttermilk pancakes to classic fried breakfasts, Mexican huevos rancheros, breakfast tacos, and Texas omelettes.

If you're feeling particularly ravenous, go for their 'world's best' chicken-fried steak and eggs - definitely their signature dish that's sure to fill you with energy for the rest of the day.

Once you've eaten, make your way back to the car and hit the road for Fort Worth. This modern-yet-traditional city is located only 32 miles outside of Dallas along route 30, so it shouldn't take you more than around 40 minutes to get there.

Travel tip: Once you get to Fort Worth, we'd recommend you drive between sights rather than walking; the places on your itinerary are a little far apart and there's loads of parking available at each.

Browse the Kimbell Art Museum

There's no better place to continue your Texas art education than at the Kimbell Art Museum, so park up and head straight there once you've arrived in Fort Worth.

This world-class art museum houses an incredible permanent collection that features pieces by some of the most famous artists in history, including Matisse, Picasso, Rembrandt and Goya, that make it one of the best collections in the country.

One really special masterpiece to look out for is The Torment of Saint Anthony by Michelangelo.

The first known painting by this iconic Italian artist, it's believed to have been painted when he was just 12 or 13 before he found his niche as a sculptor. Definitely seek out this little painting as you walk around.

The building itself, designed by renowned architect Louis Kahn, is also a work of art.

Its vaulted ceilings are embedded with skylights that allow natural light to filter into the modern building and illuminate the art; the effect is pretty special.

Admission to the permanent collection is free, however there's a fee to enter some of the exhibitions, so check online ahead of your visit for what's on and how much it will cost.

There is also free parking on site, so don't worry about finding a spot to leave the car.

Enjoy the tranquillity of the Fort Worth Water Gardens

When you're done at the museum, hop back in the car and drive a few minutes east to the Fort Worth Water Gardens, another of this city's must-see sights.

This tranquil urban park is tucked away in bustling downtown Fort Worth and offers visitors a welcome respite from the busy streets.

The gardens are architecturally impressive as well as pleasantly soothing, made up of modern pools, cascading waterfall-style fountains, and tree-lined plazas to explore.

The Active Pool is, however, the undisputed star of the show here.

It features water cascading 38 feet down ledges and steps into a pool at the bottom, and it's possible to walk down amid the water to experience its sounds and motion. If you're fit to walk down the steps then definitely do - it's a really memorable experience!

Go to the Fort Worth Stockyards and watch the cattle drive

Your final stop in Fort Worth is the Stockyards, a little further north of the Water Gardens.

This historic cattle district is steeped in cowboy history, making for quite the contrast from the modern downtown you've explored so far.

Made up of low-rise buildings, cowboy stores, honky-tonk bars and rodeos, you can't get much more Wild West than the Stockyards.

Have a wander around at your own pace, taking in all the cowboy action and dipping into the shops for some souvenirs if you fancy it.

We're leaving your Stockyards itinerary up to you with just one piece of advice: make sure you arrive in time for the 4pm cattle drive.

This twice-daily herd of longhorn cattle is a tradition here that sees real Texas cowhands directing the animals down Exchange Avenue.

Every aspect of the display, from the type of cattle down to the traditional dress of the cowhands, is historically accurate, bringing the Old West to life in this modern city.

If you're worried about the ethical implications of going to a rodeo, the cattle drive is a great alternative.

Spend the evening at Billy Bob's Texas

Owing to the fact that you've just spent the afternoon at the Stockyards and it's your last night in Texas, it seems only fitting to spend the evening at one of the world's biggest honky-tonk bars, Billy Bob's Texas .

This huge 100,000-square-foot country and western nightclub in the Stockyards contains everything cowboy-themed you can think of, including an indoor rodeo arena, dozens of bars, live country music, and an enormous dance floor.

Check ahead on their website to see if anyone is performing the night you're there, and get ready to two-step the night away to celebrate the last night of your ultimate Texas road trip.

Day 7: Fort Worth to Austin - drive back to Austin, see any last minute sights & make your way home

Drive back to austin and make the most of your last few hours in texas.

Day 7 is the final day of your Texas itinerary, and what you do today depends entirely on what time you have to be at the airport to head home.

If you've got a little time to spare, we have a few last minute recommendations:

Bullock Texas State History Museum - For a final history fix, head to the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Detailing over four centuries of Texan history, this is the perfect place to polish your knowledge of the Lone Star State before you head home.

There's loads of great artefacts and exhibits to explore, particularly the impressive renovated shipwreck. Admission costs $12.

Franklin Barbecue - If you'd rather dedicate your final hours in Texas to your taste buds, then standing in line to sample the legendary brisket from Franklin Barbecue , which has been given the thumbs up by former President Barack Obama, is the activity for you.

Get in the queue as early as you can as they close up shop when the food runs out at around 3pm, and leave Texas with a belly full of the best food in town.

Zilker Park - If you'd rather just relax before jetting home, then a trip to Zilker Park should be on the cards.

This large green space is perfect for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or some relaxed sunbathing before you have to head to the airport, making it a great place to unwind.

If you decide that you want a little more excitement than that, Lady Bird lake is the ideal place for some kayaking or stand up paddle boarding in the warmer months.

University of Texas Tower - Another option is to get up high and bid farewell to Austin from the University of Texas Tower. The 45-minute tours of the tower end up at the observation deck, which offers views across the whole city. It's a wonderful way to round out your trip.

Tickets cost $6 and should be bought in advance, and note that the tower closes during winter.

Say goodbye to Texas and head to the airport

Finish up your activity, say goodbye to Austin and hop back into the car to drive to the airport - we hope ya'll had a great time in Texas!

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The 9 Best Weekend Road Trips from Houston, Texas

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski April 09, 2021 Updated January 05, 2024

Sometimes when the itch to travel strikes, you just have to head out of town for the weekend. Fortunately for Houstonians, you have plenty of fun road trip options to choose from.

From seeing what the state’s other big cities have to offer (each has its own distinct personality) to exploring the outdoors along the Gulf Coast, these are the best weekend trips from Houston. With the numerous attractions in each of these stops, you’ll have more than enough to do for a whole weekend. You may even find yourself already planning your return trip, and that’s no problem seeing as none are more than four hours away by car.

Remember that Texas is a huge state and traffic can drastically change the travel times. You’ll almost always be better off avoiding heading into cities at morning rush hour or out of cities from around 4 to 6 p.m. You can shorten your drive times significantly if you travel during off hours.

Related Read: The 8 Best Texas Lake Camping Destinations

You’ve probably heard the phrase “Keep Austin Weird.” So go see for yourself what makes the metropolis so fun and funky by ambling past the boutiques of South Congress Street or bar hopping on Sixth Street or Rainey Street. Of course, Austin is also the capital of Texas, so you can take in the history at spots like the Texas Capitol and the Bullock Texas State History Museum .

One of the best things about Austin is its easy access to nature. The city’s Lady Bird Lake offers a pretty place to go for a walk or kayak, though taking a swim in Barton Springs Pool , a hike up Mount Bonnell , and a walk around the Greenbelt are also all popular activities. There’s also plenty of water-based recreation near Lake Travis, just northwest of the city.

Did you know this city calls itself the “Live Music Capital of the World?” While you’re there, see if you can catch a show at one of the many live music venues across the city, from the small bars downtown to the large venues like the Austin 360 Amphitheater.

Distance from Houston: 165 miles (approx. 2 hours, 30 mins)

Related Read: The 8 Best Weekend Road Trips from Dallas, Texas

2. San Antonio

With a history dating back over 300 years, San Antonio was one of the earliest Spanish settlements in Texas and is now the second-largest city in the state by population after Houston.

There are a couple of absolute must-sees in San Antonio. First are the San Antonio Missions : The Alamo, Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. Not only are these collectively a National Historical Park, but they’re also the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in the state.

Next up is the famous River Walk , perfect for picturesque stroll along the water past tons of restaurants and shops.

San Antonio is also home to not one but two massive theme parks. Rollercoaster aficionados will love Six Flags Flags Fiesta Texas, and there’s SeaWorld for anyone who’s into marine life. San Antonio is a great weekend trip from Houston for kids and adults as there are a variety of major attractions in and near the city limits.

Distance from Houston: 197 miles (approx. 3 hours)

Related Read: 11 Best Texas Swimming Holes to Beat the Summer Heat

Though it’s home to the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas has more to see than just football. For starters, there are the great museums, including the Dallas Museum of Art and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science . An important part of the city’s history is that President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in downtown Dallas, and you can learn more about the life and legacy of JFK at the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza .

If you like to spend weekends wandering through cool neighborhoods, then Bishop Arts District is the place to go with its local boutiques, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and galleries. Another fun neighborhood to explore is Deep Ellum , where you can grab a beer at the popular Deep Ellum Brewing Company , enjoy the nightlife, and catch live music. It’s a great weekend trip from Houston, but there’s plenty to do to fill a longer stay if you have more time.

Distance from Houston: 239 miles (approx. 3 hours, 45 min)

Related Read:   8 Cozy Cabin Rentals Near Dallas, Texas

4. Fort Worth

Just a 40-minute drive away from Dallas, Fort Worth often gets lumped together with its neighbor, but it’s its own city with its own attractions. Back in the day, it was an important post along the Chisholm Trail, and you can embrace that history at the Fort Worth Stockyard National Historic District . There, you’ll find the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive , re-enactment gunfight shows , a year-round rodeo , and more.

While here for the weekend, museum lovers may have a hard time picking where they want to spend their time with options like the Kimbell Art Museum , the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth , the Amon Carter Museum of American Art , and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History .

When the weather is nice, Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a lovely place to spend some time. Established in 1934, it also happens to be the oldest major botanic garden in the state. And if you need evening plans, check out Billy Bob’s Honky Tonk — the world’s largest honky-tonk bar — where you can learn to Texas two-step while sipping a Lone Star beer.

Distance from Houston: 262 miles (approx. 4 hours, 15 min)

Related Read:   What to See on an Awesome Houston to New Orleans Road Trip

5. Fredericksburg

Did you know that Texas has its own wine country? If a weekend spent wine tasting sounds right up your alley, make your way to Fredericksburg, in the heart of the Hill Country. You can either walk along Main Street to pop in and out of the abundant tasting rooms or book yourself a spot on a wine tour shuttle to check out the many other wineries in the area.

Even if you’re not big on imbibing, there’s plenty else to see in Fredericksburg. While you might not expect to learn about the Pacific Theater battles during World War II in the middle of Texas, the National Museum of the Pacific War is an excellent attraction for both adults and children. For an outdoor activity, you can head to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to hike up a massive granite dome.

Distance from Houston: 238 miles (approx. 4 hours)

Related Read: 12 Refreshing Swimming Holes Near Austin, Texas

6. Galveston

If you’re craving an island getaway but not in the mood for a long commute, you’re in luck: Galveston is just an hour away from Houston. This island city in the Gulf of Mexico has 32 miles of shoreline so you can post up for the day at one of the many beaches or go for a long walk along the historic Seawall.

Aside from simply enjoying the sand and sun, you’ll want to plan a visit to Moody Gardens , a tourist destination famous for its three massive pyramids of attractions (the Aquarium Pyramid, the Rainforest Pyramid, and the Discovery Pyramid.) And just a minute away is another popular tourist spot: Schlitterbahn Waterpark .

Another fun thing to do in Galveston is to check out the beautiful buildings from the 19th century during tours of the Moody Mansion and Bishop’s Palace .

Distance from Houston: 51 miles (approx. 1 hour)

Related Read: The Best Stops on an Epic Dallas to Houston Road Trip

7. Corpus Christi

For a different coastal getaway, Corpus Christi awaits down south. This is a popular weekend trip from Houston for the Texas State Aquarium , which Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, sharks, and stingrays. Just down the road from there is the USS Lexington , a World War II aircraft carrier since transformed into a naval aviation museum. And don’t forget about Corpus Christi’s other popular museum: The Selena Museum ! This one is dedicated to Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, a.k.a. the beloved Queen of Tejano Music, who’s considered a hometown hero.

Being in Corpus Christi also means you’re close to Padre Island, the longest barrier island in the world at 113 miles. The easiest way to reach it is to drive from. the city center across the causeway to Mustang Island State Park . With more than five miles of coastline, this barrier island park has options for surfing, fishing, hiking, kayaking, and more. You can also camp here if you want even more beach time.

Distance from Houston: 209 miles (approx. 3 hours, 15 min)

Related Read: The 11 Best Small Towns in Texas To Visit This Year

8. New Braunfels

Established in 1845, New Braunfels was originally settled by German immigrants, and that history lives on in more than just the city’s name. To learn more about New Braunfels’ heritage, make your way to the charming historic district of Gruene (pronounced like “green”) where you’ll find the oldest dance hall in Texas.

The rest of your weekend in New Braunfels is best spent by the water. Depending on how you feel, that might mean renting a tube and floating the Guadalupe or Comal River, lounging by the river at Landa Park , or spending some hours at Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Resort (the first of the Schlitterbahn parks to open in the state.) When you work up an appetite, head to one of the town’s several German restaurants like Krause’s Biergarten or Friesenhaus .

Distance from Houston: 175 miles (approx. 3 hours)

Related Read:   9 Awesome Cabin & Cottage Rentals Near New Braunfels, Texas

9. Lake Charles

There are many places worth visiting within Texas, but hopping the border into Louisiana is one of the best weekend trips from Houston for a mini-vacation. One of the main reasons people travel to Lake Charles is to try their luck at one of the casinos. There’s the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino and the L’Auberge Casino Resort , and they’re conveniently right next to each other so you can easily check out both during your trip.

Aside from gambling, both of these resorts have other amenities to fill your time with including golf, pools, a lazy river, and shopping. And is it really a trip to a casino without the buffet? Each resort has its own all-you-can-eat option.

When you need more fresh air, you can go to Prien Lake Park , which offers 29 lakeside acres for your recreation and relaxation.

Distance from Houston: 144 miles (approx. 2 hours, 15 mins)

Related Read:   6 Awesome Campervan Rentals in Houston, Texas

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Seen in: Houston , Road Trips , Texas

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski

Cindy Brzostowski is a freelance writer focusing on travel and other lifestyle content. Originally from Texas, she is currently based in Berlin. Her work has been featured in Travel & Leisure, Thrillist, TripSavvy, Food & Wine, The Infatuation, and more.

When not writing, reading, or eating, you can probably find her making an itinerary for her next adventure or dreaming about pizza.

The Ultimate Houston to Austin Road Trip Itinerary

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

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Where To Stay In Dallas + Fort Worth

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

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

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

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

Day 1 & 2 – Dallas + Fort Worth

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

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

Dallas Arts District

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

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

Sixth Floor Museum

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

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

Klyde Warren Park

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

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

Perot Museum of Nature & Science

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

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

African American Museum

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

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

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

AT&T Stadium

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

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

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

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

Sundance Square

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

Kimbell Art Museum

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

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

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

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

Billy Bob’s Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This drive takes 5.5 hours from downtown Dallas.

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

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

Cadillac Ranch

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

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

Sixth Street Historic District

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

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

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

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

Day 3 & 4 – Austin

This drive takes 3 hours from downtown Dallas

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

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

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

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

Downtown Austin

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

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

Texas State Capitol

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

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

University of Texas

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

Sunset at Congress Avenue Bridge

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

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

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

The Dirty Sixth

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

Rainey Street Historic District

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

Lady Bird Lake

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

South Congress

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

The Cathedral of Junk

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

Travelers must call ahead before visiting.

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

McKinney Falls State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Magnolia Market at the Silos

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

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

Dr. Pepper Museum

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

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

Wooly Mammoth National Monument

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

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

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

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

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

Pedernales Falls State Park

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

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

Frederiksburg

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

Visit the Wineries

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

Day 5 – San Antonio

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

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

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

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

San Antonio Missions

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

The San Antonio Riverwalk

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

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

Historic Market Square

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

Natural Bridge Caverns

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

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

Ranger Creek Brewing

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 & 7 – Corpus Christi

This drive takes 2 hours from downtown San Antonio.

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

Mustang Island

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

Padre Island National Seashore

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

South Padre Island

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

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

The Rio Grande

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

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

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

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

Day 8 – Houston

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

Space Center Houston

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

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

The Museum District

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

Buffalo Bayou Park

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

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

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

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

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

Day 9 – Galveston

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

Stewart Beach

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

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

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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16 Unforgettable Road Trips To Take In Texas During Your Lifetime

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

From fall foliage to ghost towns to natural wonders, we’ve put together some pretty unforgettable trips that are perfect for both family road trips and friend road trips. It’s never too early to start planning your next vacation, and this is the perfect list to pull from because no matter what kind of trip you’re looking for, there’s at least one that fits everyone’s fancy. In no particular order, we’ve listed some of the best road trips in Texas you’re sure to love. Be sure to click the links to our previous article to learn more about each road trip!

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So, who’s ready to hop in the car? Which one of these trips sounds the most fun to you? Let us know in the comments below!

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

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Can I go for a train ride in Texas?

One of the best ways to see the Texan countryside is by train. If you want to experience the breathtaking beauty of Texas without the hassle of driving yourself, a scenic train ride is the way to do it. The Austin Steam Train is an old-fashioned train that offers scenic rides with incredible views of Texas hill country, plus several themed events throughout the year including murder mysteries, Christmas and holiday rides, and more. The Jefferson Railway is also a popular train ride that kids and adults of all ages will enjoy. The antique steam locomotive runs along the Cypress Bayou and offers lovely bayou views, wildlife viewing opportunities, and even a history lesson about the area before dropping off at the Diamond Don Gator Pit to witness a live gator feeding, a must-see opportunity!

What are the best things about living in Texas?

There’s so much to enjoy about living in Texas, we couldn’t possibly name it all. Texas truly has something for everyone. If you’re a foodie, Texas is the place to be, especially if you enjoy BBQ. For those that enjoy nature exploration, the Lone Star State is full of scenic spots that range from dry deserts to beautiful Gulf beaches. And if you’d rather trade greener pastures for silver skyscrapers, well, Texas has several bustling cities that would love for you to visit or move to.

What places in Texas should I see before I die?

Texas has plenty of attractions that are worthy of a road trip from any corner of the state, but there are a few that stand out from the rest. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in the Lone Star State include Big Bend National Park, Padre Island National Sea Shore, and of course, the Alamo. For city life, you won’t be disappointed with a visit to one of Texas’ major metropolitan cities like Austin, San Antonio, Houston, or Dallas.

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

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

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

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

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

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Why Roadtrip in Texas?

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

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

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

The Ultimate Texas Road Trip – 6 days

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

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

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

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

Road Trip Highlights:

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

Day 1: Austin to San Antonio (1.25 hours)

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

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

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

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

Day 2: San Antonio and the Hill Country 

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

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

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

Day 3: San Antonio to Houston (3.5 hours)

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Houston to Dallas (3.5 hours)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

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

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

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

Day 1: San Antonio to Fredricksburg (2 hours)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Renting a Vehicle in Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road Rules in Texas

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

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

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

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

Insurance in Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Texas Travel 365

The Perfect Texas Road Trip Itinerary You Should Steal

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

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

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

Begin Your Texas Road Trip By Flying Into Austin

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

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

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

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

Stop 1: Austin

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

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

Things to Do

Admire the state capitol.

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

Visit Some of the Amazing Museums

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

Swim at the Barton Springs Municipal Pool

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

Enjoy a Concert or Music Festival

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

Where to Stay

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

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

Stop 2: Hamilton Pool

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

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

Stop 3:  San Antonio

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

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

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

Remember the Alamo

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

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

Stroll the River Walk

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

Enjoy the Views from the Tower of the Americas

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

Explore the Natural Bridge Caverns

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

Relax at the San Pedro Springs Park

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

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

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

Stop 4: Big Bend National Park

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

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

Hike the Santa Elena Canyon

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

Search for Ruins

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

Soak in a Hot Spring

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

Take a Trip into Mexico

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

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

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

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

Stop 5: Explore Texas Hill Country

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

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

Drink Wine at the Fall Creek Vineyards

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

Discover Fields of Bluebonnet Flowers

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

Hike to the Top of Enchanted Rock

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

Kayak on the Guadalupe River

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

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

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

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

Stop 6: Dinosaur Valley State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stop 7: Dallas

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

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

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

Learn About the JFK Assassination at The Sixth Floor Museum

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

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

Watch Animals at the Dallas Zoo or Dallas World Aquarium

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

Admire the View from Reunion Tower

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

Check Out Fair Park

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

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

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

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

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

Stop 8: Houston

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

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

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

Learn About Space Travel at the Space Center Houston

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

Discover History at the Museum of Natural Science

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

Relax at Hines Waterwall Park

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

Walk Among Butterflies at the Cockrell Butterfly Center

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

Pretend to be a Cowboy at a Rodeo

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

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

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

Stop 9: Galveston

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

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

Have Fun at the Schlitterbahn Water Park

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

Explore the Historic Pleasure Pier

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

Take a Boat Tour of the Harbor to Spot Dolphins

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

Take a Tour of Bishop’s Palace

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

Explore the Moody Gardens

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

Simply Chill at the Beach

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

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

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

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

Conclude Your Texas Road Trip By Flying Out Of Houston

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

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

Reader Interactions

January 26, 2022 at 12:03 pm

Hey – love the itinerary!

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

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

February 4, 2022 at 6:48 pm

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

April 18, 2022 at 3:26 pm

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

April 25, 2022 at 9:07 pm

June 29, 2022 at 11:35 am

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

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The 6 most spectacular road trips in Texas

Aug 28, 2023 • 8 min read

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

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

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

1. Hill Country

Best scenic road trip Austin–San Antonio; 200 miles 

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

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

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

2. Big Bend Loop

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

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

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

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

3. Houston & the Gulf Coast

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

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

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

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

4. Route 66 & the Texas Panhandle Loop

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

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

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

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

5. Fort Worth, Dallas & Northeast Texas

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

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

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

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

6. Texas BBQ and Dance Halls

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

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

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

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

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

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Road trip guide from houston.

Looking for a stimulating, quality leisure experience that's not too far away? Houston has many attractions beyond its outer loop, Beltway 8, to suit your recreation and leisure desires. These activities--fun for the whole family, with friends, or a significant other--are perfect for day trips , and many are just a few minutes from Downtown Houston.

Jump to Experience:

Family friendly.

Armand Bayou Nature Center  is currently the largest urban wilderness preserve in the United States. Made up of 2,500 acres of wetlands, forest, prairie and marsh habitats, this preserve is known for its hiking trails and guided canoe or pontoon boat tours useful and educational for field trips and scout programs. With over 370 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, there is much to see at this preserve. Enjoy live animal displays of snakes, spiders, hawks and bison. The Armand Bayou Nature Center strives to preserve the environment and practice stewardship of the land.

The Gulf Coast can be termed as a  bird lover's paradise . A variety of beautiful birds can be found along the coast particularly in the cooler months when many species migrate to escape the frigid northern temperatures. It is not difficult to spot these winged beauties, as you can see many of them while driving along the bayous and preserves or just hanging out on the beach. Some of the species include whooping cranes, egrets, blue herons, and roseate spoonbills. Some hotspots for sighting these birds include Anahuac, Bolivar Peninsula, the Clear Lake/Bay area and Galveston.

A fighting vessel in both World War I and II,  Battleship Texas  became the first battleship memorial museum in the United States in 1948. Anchored on Buffalo Bayou and the busy Houston Ship Channel, visitors and students can experience history first hand. The ship is highly interactive and you will see just how sailors in the first half of the 20th Century lived and worked. Nearby, the  San Jacinto Monument  is the world's tallest war memorial representing those who fought for Texas' independence. Although the land was purchased to build the memorial in the 1890s, construction was not completed until 1939. A museum is located at the base of the monument welcomed by the six flags of Texas. The base features text panels highlighting significant events in history leading up to and resulting from the Texas revolution.

Constructed on Galveston Island from 1887-1982,  Bishop's Palace , also known as Gresham House, is recognized as a national landmark. Made of stone and steel, Gresham house was designed by the famous Victorian-style architect, Nicholas Clayton. The three-story house features irregular shaped stones, Tudor arches with carvings of animals and people, and unique geometric forms creating a dramatic effect for viewers. This house is also known for surviving the Great Hurricane of 1900, which is to date, the deadliest natural disaster to ever hit the United States. Bishop's Palace is open seven days a week. Located on Galveston Island,  Moody Mansion  was completed in 1895. This four-story, 28,000-square-foot mansion depicts the home life of a prominent Texas family. Mr. Moody was a businessman, active in creating his financial empire based on cotton which then grew to include banking, ranching, insurance and hotels. The Moodys bought the home from the original owners after the Great Hurricane of 1900. The guided tour, available daily, provides a history of the Moody family and tours the 20+ rooms, all decorated in a different style. The tour is a tribute to the bygone era, showcasing the ornate and luxurious lifestyle of the Moody family, whose legacy continues on today through many organizations and attractions in Galveston. The National Museum of Funeral History  is home to our nation's largest display of historic funeral service memorabilia and artifacts. The funeral history museum was established by Robert L. Waltrip to educate the public and preserve the rich heritage of the funeral industry. Browse through the many exhibits including 1921 Rock Falls Hearse, Fantasy Coffins, Civil War Embalming and 1900s Casket Factory. The museum also features rare artifacts such as the original eternal flame from President John F. Kennedy's gravesite. Open daily, visitors can enjoy a tour lasting one hour covering most of the artifacts as well as little known facts about funeral heritage.

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark , open year round, offers more than 32 rides and attractions. In the summer season--late April through September--attractions include a large wave pool, uphill water coaster, speed slides, water playgrounds, whitewater rapids and more. The heated indoor season during the cooler months offers patrons a climate-controlled environment with heated rides, tube slides, body slides, a wave river, wave pool, a giant hot tub with a swim up bar and man-made surfing wave. Schlitterbahn offers free parking, free tubes, free life jackets and the option to bring your own lunch to picnic. Space Center Houston , the visitors center for NASA's Johnson Space Center, is the only place on earth where visitors can get a full intergalactic experience. Comprised of a variety of permanent exhibits, theatres and other attractions, Space Center Houston is fun for the whole family. Some of the permanent exhibits include a multimedia "blast off" experience, a hands-on Living in Space exhibit, a behind-the-scenes NASA tram tour and an astronaut gallery containing space suits, crew photos and portraits. Visitors can also enjoy mission status, receiving live updates on current space flights. Space Center Houston includes a number of interactive activities for children (and adults) such as jumping on the moon, piloting a space shuttle and flying in space. Located off of US 290 in Northwest Houston,  Traders Village  is the largest and most visited flea marketplace in the region with more than 100 acres of open-air shopping and special events nearly every weekend. Bargain hunters will find everything from crafts and collectibles to jewelry, furniture and electronics. Roughly 1,000 merchants are on hand at the market at any given time. There are rides for the kids, an assortment of food stands and restaurants and even live music. An RV park is also on site.

Located just 20 miles from downtown Houston, the  Kemah Boardwalk  features a variety of restaurants, charming retail shops, rides and amusements and weekly festivals, all overlooking Galveston Bay. The boardwalk is also a venue for events, festivals, parties and field trips. With a number of attractions to keep you busy, it really is a place you can spend the entire day. Dining options include lively and popular eateries such as the Aquarium, Landry's Seafood House, Starbucks and Joe's Crab Shack, along with Cadillac Bar, the Pizza Oven and the Flying Dutchman. There are about 15 different amusements/rides including a double decker carousel, a Ferris wheel, a rollercoaster, speedboat thrill ride and sting ray and rainforest exhibit. The Kemah Boardwalk also provides specialty shops and kiosks for your retail needs.

Moody Gardens , located on Galveston Island, contains many attractions that will stimulate your mind. The aquarium pyramid, reaching 12 stories high, allows visitors to explore the four oceans of the world and learn about the underwater world. The Discovery Pyramid is home to traveling exhibits from around the globe providing interactive demonstrations. The newly redesigned Rainforest Pyramid hosts a lush environment with exotic plants from Africa, Asia and the Americas. There you will also find a leafy canopy, waterfall and pools accompanied by variety of animals, birds and butterflies so you get the true rainforest experience. Other attractions include a 6-story 3D theatre, a stimulation ride, and Palm Beach, Moody Garden's own water park.

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10 Best Road Trips near Houston

Escape to texas this weekend.

Houston is packed full of fun whether you're looking for urban splendor or something more relaxing and closely connected with nature, but it's nice to get away sometimes. Fortunately, Houston is in a convenient position that puts quite a few other stunning locations well within driving distance.

When you embark on a road trip, you can expect a wide variety of adventures whether you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city or you want to explore another thriving metropolis. Check out the 10 best road trips near Houston.

Galveston Island

Enjoy fun in the sun on an island.

Galveston Island is a Gulf Coast island where you'll find inviting beaches, a thriving restaurant scene, and a fascinating historic district. The beaches are a nice getaway from the city, but their soft sands and welcoming Gulf waters are just the beginning.

When you visit, you'll find quite a few dining options, including classic Texas fare with a taste of New Orleans at the local gumbo bar. Additionally, the Strand District is 70 blocks of old Victorian buildings with boutiques, museums, theaters, and fun shops. To get to Galveston, you'll have to head southeast for about 50 miles from downtown Houston.

Location: Island in Galveston County, TX USA

Enjoy a quiet and relaxing city

Texas City is a laid-back city that's known primarily for its numerous parks and preserves, with 42 of them in total. Some are part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, which makes the area an essential stop on a road trip for bird-watchers.

One of the more interesting protected areas in this city is the Texas City Prairie Preserve where you can travel through marshes and wetland habitats along boardwalks. Of course, more traditional parks are available as well. Texas City is about a 45-minute drive southeast from downtown Houston.

Location: Texas City, TX USA

Museum of Fine Arts, Houston

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Bolivar peninsula, visit a waterfront paradise on the upper texas coast.

The Bolivar Peninsula is a stretch of coastal land where you'll find soft sands, inviting beaches, and laid-back communities perfect for getting away from the busy city. Most visitors find themselves spending time swimming in the water or fishing off the shore.

This destination quite often features parades and events complete with live music, so be sure to check the local calendar before you visit. You can reach this peninsula after about an hour and a half drive by heading east then turning south at Winnie.

Location: TX USA

Check out a small ranching village

Wimberley is a small village that's quaint, quiet, and home to some interesting historical sites in the Texas Hill Country that's bustling with natural beauty. You can spend time around the central square where you'll find a wealth of historical sites in addition to local shopping opportunities.

The natural beauty here is expressed in a variety of ways. One of the most popular attractions is the natural spring area, where you can go for a swim if you like, or embark on a hike in the surrounding area. Whatever your preference, you can get to Wimberley by heading about 185 miles west from Houston.

Location: Wimberly, TX USA

photo by Lars Plougmann ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) modified

Visit the state's capital

Austin is one of the more unique cities in the state, with delicious restaurant options, a rich history, and outdoor activities the whole family can enjoy. You'll find everything in Austin to be uniquely Austin, and that's how the locals like it, given their popular "Keep Austin Weird" motto.

When you visit, you'll find an array of barbecue restaurants along with a variety of other options. Most of them are unique and locally owned, with most chains pushed to the outskirts. You'll also find Lady Bird Lake here and plenty of parks if you're looking for fun outdoors. Austin is just under 3 hours west of Houston.

Location: Austin, TX USA

McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge

Explore a wildlife refuge.

The McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge is the ideal destination for travelers looking for active outdoor adventure with opportunities for hiking, fishing, photography, and other fun in nature. Fishing is especially popular at the refuge, with public-use structures available around Clam Lake, though you can also venture out in a boat if you like.

The nature trails at the refuge are vast and expansive. Viewing platforms are spread throughout the trail network, so you can take in the stunning nature and spot impressive wildlife for your own memories or to take the perfect photo. You can get to the refuge by heading about 130 miles east from Houston.

Location: 7950 S Gulfway Dr, Sabine Pass, TX 77655, USA

Open: Daily from 7.30 am to 7 pm

Phone: +1 409-971-2909

Immerse yourself in local history

Huntsville is a relatively small town with a rich history that you can explore along with a thriving cultural scene for art lovers. The town is best known as the home of Sam Houston, who played a pivotal role in the Texas Revolution, and you can find an entire museum dedicated to him here.

If you're more interested in the local culture, you can visit the Old Town Theatre as well as several art galleries throughout town. To get to Huntsville, you'll need to drive north from Houston for about an hour.

Location: Huntsville, TX, USA

Embrace the pride of Texas

Brenham is a city that's often described as the Texan's Texas where you'll find live music, special events, historic streets, thriving culture, and delicious food. Special events are common here, and live music can be found among its bustling nightlife virtually every evening.

Texas culture shines through here, with local art exhibitions highlighting individual artists. Special events are often held throughout the more historic areas of town where you'll also find monuments and landmarks. It's all located about 75 miles to the northwest from Houston.

Location: Brenham, TX, USA

photo by Adavyd ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

Sam Houston National Forest

Explore a sprawling forest.

The Sam Houston National Forest is a massive protected nature area that offers extensive recreation opportunities like hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. The forest covers 163,045 acres, and it contains quite a few hiking and biking paths.

If you're more interested in spending time by the water, you'll find plenty of opportunities within this forest, with fishing being one of the more popular recreational activities here. Lake Livingston and Lake Conroe are among the best spots, with black bass and year-round fishing. You can see it all for yourself by heading about 60 miles north of Houston.

Location: 394 FM 1375 West, New Waverly, TX 77358, USA

Open: Monday–Friday from 8 am to 11.30 am and noon to 4.30 pm (closed Saturday–Sunday)

Phone: +1 936-344-6205

Port Arthur

Visit a town with a cajun twist.

Port Arthur is a fun town with a notably Cajun flavor offering unique gastronomy as well as expansive natural areas perfect for outdoor adventurers. This town is pretty popular for foodies, especially if you're a fan of Cajun dishes that typically hail from Louisiana. Many of these are found around Pleasure Island, which is a man-made entertainment area.

For a natural experience, you'll find several parks and nature preserves to explore. Sabine Lake is especially popular whether you want to go fishing, boating, or both. Sea Rim State Park offers much of the same with plenty of boat rentals nearby. You can get to this town by heading about 90 miles to the east near the Louisiana border.

Location: Port Arthur, TX, USA

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Road Trips from Houston

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Here is the list of 23 Road Trips from Houston

Home to an exciting range of activities and attractions the city of Dallas is located in the southern part of Texas. The city houses a wide range of art galleries, zoos, and churches for visitors. The Dallas Museum of art is one of the biggest and oldest museums with a collection of paintings, ancient sculptures, and artifacts. The Dallas zoo is also a major attraction for children, as it has several shows, animal attractions and is also a great learning experience. The cosmopolitan city of Dallas is also known for its delicious cafeterias and restaurants which provide delicacies from all over the world. In addition to this, the city also has a majestic skyline of its high rise buildings like the Bank of America Plaza and the Reunion Tower. Interestingly, the frozen margarita machine and German chocolates were also invented in the city of Dallas. Distance from Houston: 239 miles

"Located in Far West Texas, between the Davis Mountains and the Big Bend National Park, Marfa is a small city known for minimalist art and tourism. The Chinati Art Foundation and the Judd Art foundation are two famous art museums most visited by tourists. The Marfa gliders is another famous attraction where the visitors can fly in small planes and capture scenic views of the mountains and deserts from the air. The lights festival of Marfa is one of the most popular events in the region. The Marfa Lights is a mysterious scene of the city visible only on clear nights that leaves most spectators awestruck on sight. The view of Marfa lights itself is enough to fulfill one’s stay in the city. Additionally, camping in the desert is also a popular activity in the city for tourists. Distance from Houston:  588 miles

3. Chisos Mountains

Located in the Big Bend region and covering 40 acres of land are the Chisos mountains. The mountains were formed by a volcanic eruption 33-44 billion years ago. The mountain's name in the native American language means ghost or spirit, making the region more explorative and engaging for its visitors. The mountain range has a cool climate because of its height and location. With this, the mountain range is also home to several birds, animals, and ants. The mountains also have a lodge for the visitors who wish to spend a longer period at the Chisos mountain range.   Distance from Houston: 563 miles

4. Rio Frio

Rio Frio is a small unincorporated city part of Real County, Texas. The town is named after the river on which it is located, the Frio River. Some famous activities that the city is famous for include Alamo. This historic location is very close to the Texans and is a must-visit location for all tourists. In addition to this, Six Flags is another famous recreational park where families and people of all ages can enjoy thrilling rides and activities. The city is also famous for hiking and camping. Garner State Park, located inside the city, offers many different trails and camping sites where people can camp and hike. Fishing is also a common activity along the Frio River. Activities - camping, recreation Distance from Houston - 289 miles

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5. Lost Maples

Lost Maples, a beautiful and scenic region of hills and valleys located in the Edwards Plateau in Texas. The 2906 acre land is filled with red, orange, yellow leafed trees leaving visitors awestruck and mesmerized. Lost Maples is also home to the white-tailed deer and mountain lions, making hunting a prevalent sport in the region. The trails also include a 2200 foot cliff climb that makes hiking adventurous and one of the park's most popular activities. Other activities visitors can enjoy are birdwatching, backpacking, fishing, and camping. The scenic location attracts hundreds of families for picnics and branches throughout the year. Lost Maples is also home to the rapidly flowing Sabinal River. Address - 37221 RM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885, United States Activities - bird watching, hiking, camping, fishing Distance from Houston - 283 miles

6. Barton Springs

Barton Springs is a popular man-made swimming pool in Austin, Texas. The unique feature of the pool is that it is filled with the natural springs that are located nearby, hence it is a great skin healing location. Known as the crown jewel of Austin, the pool is the city’s most popular and visited the place. The Barton springs are well maintained by the officials and they also ensure that the place is always safe for swimming and recreation. Address - Austin, TX 78746, United States Distance from Houston - 165 miles

7. Wimberly

A relatively newer and small city, Wimberly was established recently in 2000. The city is located at Blanco River and Cypress creek's confluence and thus offers some of the most natural and scenic views to its visitors of the hills and rivers. The city also has its own Wimberly valley that allows the visitors to go camping and hiking. Fishing is also a common activity in the region. Owing to its hilly locations, the city is most attracted by adventurous and outdoor people who love exploring nature and its wonders. Jacob’s well swimming hole is also a famous attraction within the city. Distance from Houston: 182 miles

Named after Henry B Shiner, the city of Shiner is located in the Lavaca County of Texas. It is known that Henry B SHiner had given away 250 acres of land to the city, intending to create a railroad that increases the city's connectivity and productivity. The city is home to a minimal number of people and households, with fewer schools and other essentials than Texas's other cities. Shiner, although it is a developing and growing city.  Distance from Houston: 120 miles

9. New Orleans

Known for its Creole cuisine, unique dialect, and world-famous music, the city of New Orleans is located in Louisiana's heart. The diverse city of New Orleans is also known for its melting pot of African, American, and French cultures. The city also serves one of the best cuisines in its small, vintage, and homely cafes and restaurants. The Sazerac drink in New Orleans is the city's specialty; invented in early 1800, the drink instantly became a hit and is now the official drink of New Orleans. In addition to this, the city is also known for its French and American architecture and buildings prevalent in almost all the small lanes and corners of the city. Distance from Houston: 377 miles

10. Big Bend National Park

Established in 1916, the Big Bend National Park is a 3,242 km² natural forest reserve. With more than 318 million visits every year, the national park is involved in protecting and preserving over 1200 species of plants, 450 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, and 75 species of animals. Big Bend also has many archeological sites of dinosaur bones as well as volcanic dikes. These features make the state park extremely useful for research and development. The Big Bend National Park's primary activities for visitors include camping, birdwatching, and backpacking trails. Another feature of the park is its certification as a dark sky park. It is one of the few parks where the stars, moon, and even the milky way galaxy is clearly visible at night. Address: Big Bend National Park, TX, United States Activities:  The night sky, camping, bird watching Distance from Houston: 563 miles

11. Caddo Lake

Caddo Lake is a 26,810-acre lake and wetland located on the border of Texas and Louisiana. It is one of the largest lakes in the Southern part of the United States. Caddo Lake is home to several alligators, making it different from any other lake in the city. Other animals that can be spotted there include owls, snakes, frogs, bobcats, and ferrets, among many others. There is also an alligator park where visitors can feed alligators and understand their habitats. Fishing and camping are also popular adventure activities around the lake. 46 campsites around the lake are built for visitors for a fun-filled stay at the park, in addition to the ranger programs and rental paddle boats. Address : Harrison County, Texas Activities:  fishing, hiking, camping Distance from Houston: 247 miles

12. Marshall

A city known for its revolutionary history, Marshall is filled with several historical sites and buildings, all telling a story. The area was initially used for cotton plantations, which later became a developed area, although it is yet developing in several ways. The city is also known for its well-established railroad that increases its connectivity throughout the city as well as the state. Distance from Houston: 219 miles

13. Garner State Park

Located 287.5 miles away from the city of Houston the Garner State Park is 1774 acres of pure scenic beauty, with hills, mountains, and rivers. The Garner State Park is also home to the Frio Rio river, where visitors can swim, rent paddle boats also go fishing. Hiking, trekking, and camping are activities that are thoroughly enjoyed by all the visitors. Along with these popular activities, visitors can also picnic on the grass, canoe, and fish in the river, study nature, play mini-golf and go mountain biking in the premises of the state park. In addition to these exciting and adventurous activities, one can also buy souvenirs as a memory of this panoramic place. Address: 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838 Open Hours: 8am-10pm Activites: Hiking, camping Entry Fee: USD 8 Distance from Houston: 285.7 miles

14. Sam Houston National Forest

Located 50 miles north of Houston, the Sam Houston National Forest is one of the four largest natural habitats of Texas. The forest covers an area of more than 163,037 acres of land and is home to a variety of species of birds, animals, and trees. Hiking is an exciting and popular activity in the Forest Reserve. The region has a 128-mile long trail called the lone star train that runs through the heart of the forest. Home to the 3000-acre lake where the visitors can enjoy fishing and boating, the forest reserve also allows camping within the region with more than 48 camping sites that have an electricity supply. The forest is a very scenic location where people can enjoy their life outside the busy city life. Address: 394 FM 1375 West, New Waverly, TX 77358, United States Activities: Hiking, Camping, Bird watching Distance from Houston: 50 miles

15. Huntsville

Located in the Appalachian range of Alabama, Huntsville is also known as the city of Rockets. The city is home to the U.S Space and Rocket center, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, as well as the United States Aviation and Missile Command, making it one of the most technologically developed cities in Texas. Built with a strong infrastructure, the city of Huntsville also has a revolutionary history of civil wars, world wars, and depressions. With this rich and flourishing history, the city is now home to developing technology with its space centers and research institutions. Address: Morgan County, Alabama Time from Houston: 2 hours by flight

16. Brenham

Considered as the Texan’s Texas, Brenham is the city where one can feel the real authenticity of Texas and its lifestyle. The city brings out its culture, lifestyle and festivals in a pure and orthodox manner showcasing the roots of the state. There are many activities in Brenham that make it a very adventurous and exciting city to visit. Brenham holds many annual events and festivals that make the city very happening and lively. Some of the famous festivals include the yearly German Heritage Fest and the Texas rangers day. Other attractions include museums and clubs that make the place adventurous and informative. Distance from Houston: 76 miles

17. Texas City

A metropolitan city located in the heart of Galveston County is Texas City, known for its Magical WInter lights and clear lake. Texas city is one of the largest cities in the state and is also home to one of the most important Texas ports. The city is well developed and is famous for its beautiful sunsets and sunrises. Being an environmentally friendly city, they have built around 40 conservational parks in Texas city. Texas City also houses a famous aquatic center and its very own museum which showcases the events of World War 2 and how it impacted the city in particular. Other activities one can come across in the town include fishing. Experienced fishers and water enthusiasts also visit Texas City Dike, the largest human-made pier in the world stretching close to 5.3 miles. Address:  Galveston County, Texas Activities:  Fishing Distance from Houston:  45.9 miles

18. College Station

A city in Brazos County, Texas, College Station is known for being home to the world-famous Texas A&M University. The research university today has the highest student population in the country. In addition to this, they also have several other business gardens, a well built and connected transportation system throughout the city. The city also has airports and railroads to increase the connectivity of the place. Address: Brazos County, Texas Distance from Houston: 87 miles

19. Bolivar Peninsula

Bolivar Peninsula is a census-designated place located in the Galveston County of Texas. The peninsula is a 27 mile stretch of land that is filled with exciting activities and adventurous events. These activities include birdwatching, a tour of the Travis fort and the Bolivar lighthouse, and much more. Filled with cultural and historical monuments as well, the region is also covered with thousands of different species of birds. There are specific birding centers as well where one can go bird watching. The area is also filled with elegant restaurants and bars so that people can enjoy the beautiful sunset along with delicious food. Address:  Galveston County, Texas Activities:  Bird watching, historical monuments Distance from Houston:  72 miles

20. Texas Hill Country

Forming the southern part of the Edwards Plateau, located between south and central Texas, is the Texas Hill country. The region is known for its topography of soluble rocks as well as the hills filled with minerals like granite and limestone. The mountains, hills, vegetation and rivers build up together to make the region more beautiful and scenic as a whole. The Texas Hill Country has several places to walk, hike and trek and enjoy the freshness of the serine beauty and extensive vegetation. It is one of the most peaceful and calming atmospheres which is spread throughout the ranges of mountains and valleys—the area dominated with the Spanish and German influence of food stalls, beer and architecture. Activites: Hiking, trekking, camping Distance from Houston:  250 miles

21. New Braunfels

New Braunfels is placed in the middle of the crossroads of the crystal clear Comal and the overpopulated city of Guadalupe. The city is majorly known for its widely spotted German and Texas architecture, in most of the heritage buildings around the city. The winter months here often attract visitors to cool rivers and adventurous water parks. New Braunfels has a humid and subtropical climate which is similar to most of its surroundings. The weather permits the people to shop at various renowned locations as well as smaller local stores. The town also holds the famous Wurstfest, a German-style sausage festival every November, and another festival in December highlighting the heritage buildings in Lockhart. Distance: 174.6 miles

22. Lockhart

Also known as the barbeque capital of Texas, Lockhart is loved by the visitors for the wide range of delicious meats that go into making the world-famous barbeques. Here, one is more likely to find budding musicians and small brewers who live at Lockhart to escape the high prices and hectic city life of the metropolitan cities. The Caldwell courthouse and jailhouse are major attractions in the city with a unique and impactful history. The Downtown square is also the right place for people to relax, sit, and spend time together. Lockhart also is home to a bunch of art galleries that have the work of growing artists, to empower and highlight their talent. Distance: 140 miles

23. San Marcos

A charming college town, SanMarcos is located amid the metropolitan cities of San Antonio and Austin. Home to the largest outlet mall in the country, San Marcos is also known for its historic downtown square and unique water parks. Visitors get a chance to experience out of the world things like a unicycle football match and an uphill waterfall at the park. In addition to this, San Marcos allows its visitors to take a glass-bottom tour in the Spring Lake and go paddle boating during the nights. The Lyndon Baines Johnson Museum and the World War 2 aircraft museum are also places that add value to the small town of San Marcos. Distance: 165 miles

These are a few road trips that one can take from the city of Houston. These destinations are ideal for a getaway from the hustle of Houston. We hope you like it.

This post was published by Priyal Jhaveri

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Rev. Bill Lawson, a Houston civil rights icon who helped desegregate the city, dies at 95

W illiam “Bill” Lawson arrived in Houston at the dawn of the civil rights era, planning to teach at Texas Southern University and to raise a family.

By the time he died at 95 Tuesday morning, he was the Rev. William A. Lawson, the founding pastor of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, a strong voice for equality and a towering figure in Houston’s past and present.

Lawson played a role in the city’s desegregation in the 1960s, and he remained active for decades as an advocate for African Americans, for women, for the poor and for any population that needed a voice. Along the way, he became a spiritual leader and  guided Houston’s faith community to do more for and with the city.

“Worshipping God is not complete unless you help your neighbor,” Lawson said in 2011. “That theology drew me long before I knew of civil rights.’’

Preacher, teacher, leader

Lawson never planned to be a pastor. He studied graphic design and art and once dreamed of becoming a cartoonist. But the ministry called to him, and it became his life story.

A native of St. Louis, Mo., Lawson grew up in Kansas City, Kan., and earned a bachelor’s degree in 1950 from Tennessee A&I State College (now Tennessee State University). When he returned to St. Louis and enrolled at Central Baptist Theological Seminary, he found his calling — and met his late wife, Audrey Hoffman Lawson.

They married in 1954 and, over the next several years, had four children.

In 1955 — the year Emmett Till was lynched in Mississippi and the year Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Ala., city bus — Lawson moved south. He came to Houston to teach and serve as chaplain at the Baptist Student Union at Texas Southern University.

Houston is where Lawson became involved in the struggle for civil rights. In 1960, when a group of TSU students staged a sit-in at a lunch counter to protest segregation, they turned to him for advice.

“‘I said to them, ‘Are you serious?’” he told the Chronicle in 2016. "‘Your parents, grandparents worked their tails off to get you into school, and that’s the last thing you ought to want to be involved in. You don’t want to get a chance to be arrested and have a jail record.’”

But the students did it anyway — and when they were arrested, Lawson and his wife helped raise money to bail them out of jail.

Lawson and his family lived on the TSU campus, and in 1962 a few other young families approached him about starting a church, he recalled in a 2008 interview. Lawson didn’t see himself as a pastor, but he agreed to open a church in his own family’s living room for those friends.

Lawson told the 13 members he would serve as their pastor until he could find a young seminary graduate to take over. But, as he recalled in 2008, that never happened. After three years, Lawson left his job at the university and began to lead Wheeler Avenue full-time.

Its beginnings may have been small and uncertain, but the church, steeped in the Civil Rights Movement, has become a Third Ward and Houston institution and now has more than 14,000 members.

Charlotte Bryant was one of those initial 13 members.

“It was really God, I think, that brought us together,” said Bryant, who is now executive director of the Blue Triangle Community Center in Third Ward.

She and her husband and the other young parents quickly became a tight-knit church community. Their children played together after the services. “It was so much fun in those days,” Bryant said. “If you missed a Sunday, we’d go to visit you Sunday evening to see what your problem was.”

The families wanted someone who would really teach them, she said, not just preach at them — and “Bill Lawson was just what we needed.” He could always provide context and background for the Scripture he taught, Bryant said, and “we wanted to learn.”

Early on, Lawson made room for women in leadership roles, said Algenita Davis, a longtime member who became a founding director of the non-profit William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity in 1996. Lawson was ahead of his time, she said, especially for a Baptist pastor.

“He had women on the trustee board, he made women deacons,” Davis said. “And he forged that way for women because he believed in equality.”

Civil Rights era

Lawson worked for racial equality as well. In the early days of Wheeler Avenue Baptist, Lawson befriended Martin Luther King Jr. and chartered the Houston chapter of King’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference — a chapter he led for more than 30 years.

By 1963, J. Edgar Hoover and the FBI had labeled King a Communist and other black churches in Houston refused to host him — but Lawson invited King to speak at his church.

Like King, Lawson believed that churches had a responsibility to play a role in the community and in society.

While other cities segregated with violence and destruction, Houston business leaders came up with a plan to avoid that. Black leaders and white business owners met secretly at the Rice Hotel and cut deals to make segregation disappear with little fanfare and little violence. Lawson was there — even though he had to get to those meetings through the hotel’s back door and freight elevator. The “whites only” and “colored” signs simply disappeared from Houston’s stores and water fountains overnight.

“He, I think, did more than anyone, probably, to keep Houston calm during the civil rights era,” said Lawson's good friend Joseph Fiorenza, a former Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Galveston-Houston, in an interview with the Chronicle several years before his death.

“When other cities were being bombed and burned down,” Fiorenza said, Lawson’s leadership helped bring people in Houston together.

Lawson “was able to quietly talk to the business communities, to say, ‘This is not good for Houston,’” Fiorenza said. “And we were able to do a lot of things to quietly integrate the public facilities here.”

Lawson spoke about the city’s desegregation in 2008 in an interview for the Houston Oral History Project.

“The quiet desegregation of Houston met more my style than the picketing or protesting — that was not my style,” he said.

Collaboration and activism

For decades, Lawson was part of a trio of faith leaders who became friends and worked together on projects to improve the community. His friendship with Fiorenza, the former archbishop, and Samuel Karff, rabbi emeritus of Houston’s Congregation Beth Israel, blended collaboration with activism.

In an interview a few years before he died in 2020, Karff said it "turned out to be the best kind of interfaith relationship."

They fought for racial equality and worked with the Anti-Defamation League to combat antisemitism. In the 1980s, they saw an increasing homeless population in Houston and led the effort to found a United Way Homeless Initiative, helping get people off the streets and into housing.

One of Karff’s fondest memories of their friendship was from 2010, when the three worked together to push for a public defender office to be created in Harris County.

Karff said Lawson called him and said, “Sam, I know you’re retired … but I need you.” He explained that Harris County was the nation’s only metro area without a public defender to ensure poor residents got fair representation in court.

“I said, ‘Well, obviously that’s an injustice, and you’ve got me in — now give me my marching orders,” Karff recalled.

The rabbi, the archbishop and the Baptist preacher, along with a diverse group of local faith leaders, scheduled a meeting with County Judge Ed Emmett, who agreed to find money in the budget for a public defender.

“We look to Bill as our leader in a sense, in a lot of these projects,” Fiorenza said. “We want to be sure Bill Lawson is involved in it. If he’s involved in it, we should be too.”

But Lawson was a funny, generous friend as well, Karff said. A few decades ago, when his home in Meyerland burned to the ground, Lawson offered to replace the rabbi’s book collection. Karff, who was living with his wife in a temporary apartment, didn’t have anywhere to store a new book collection, so he put Lawson off.

A few months later, Karff received a surprise delivery from Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. A basket of kosher Passover goodies included a kind and eloquent note from Lawson, Karff said. But he laughed when he recalled how Lawson ended it: “This note is being sent to you from an angry black pastor who is still waiting to hear from you about your books.”

The ‘quiet storm’

Lawson’s way of expressing himself was always full of humor and a calm that put others at ease, Bryant said. “We’ve always teased him about being a peaceful person,” she said. “We called him a ‘quiet storm.’”

But even so, he knew how to get things done, said Davis, the early church member — and he taught others how to work together.

“He was instrumental in getting many of our local religious institutions to commit to community development,” she said, harnessing the members’ energy to do something for the neighborhood or the city.

The William A. Lawson Institute for Peace and Prosperity — called WALIPP for short — was named for Lawson when it opened in 1996. The institute is an advocacy agency that has created two single-sex middle schools and a Third Ward independent living facility for seniors. The WALIPP Preparatory Academy for boys was the first charter school in Houston ISD.

WALIPP came about when Lawson’s friends and associates were struggling to find a gift to celebrate his 50 years in the ministry, Davis said.

“When you give him stuff, he gives it back, or he gives it away,” she said, laughing, but they knew Lawson wouldn’t reject an organization that could do good in his community.

U.S. Rep. Al Green was at the airport Tuesday morning when he learned Lawson had died.

Instead of flying to Washington, D.C., Green elected to stay in Houston and be with the Lawson family.

"He was like a father. He was a mentor. He was someone who was always there to give guidance," Green said.

Lawson could bring morality to issues when others weren't able to, Green said, and those moral standards helped make him a peacemaker when people were divided.

Green asked himself many times, "What would Lawson do?" or "Where would he stand on this issue?" The side Lawson was on was not only the right side but also the righteous side, Green said.

"You felt pretty safe if you were on the side with Rev. Lawson there," Green said.

Lawson retired from the pulpit in 2004, but he remained active in Houston and in the church until the end. Even so, the city began celebrating Lawson’s legacy even before his death.

In 2018, he was featured on a Houston Metro bus. He is also depicted in the 2018 “Sacred Struggles/Vibrant Justice” mural along the back of Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ in Third Ward, a work that depicts the leaders who fought for civil rights in Houston.

And Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston's “Plaza of Respect” honors the friendship and cooperation of Karff, Fiorenza and Lawson.

“It’s been a joy to have known him in my life,” Bryant said, “not only as a spiritual leader, but as a friend, a comrade and an adviser.”

Lawson’s vision and his engaging manner have achieved major positive change in the city he called home for more than six decades, Fiorenza said. “He’s just been a great treasure to Houston.”

The Rev. Lawson's body will lie in state from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 23 at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, 3826 Wheeler Ave., Houston, 

A Community Service of Celebration will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday and the Congregational Service of Celebration will be held at 11 a.m. on May 24. Both services will be held at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, 3826 Wheeler Avenue, Houston, TX 77004.

This story was researched and written by former Chronicle staff writer Alyson Ward.  Shakari Briggs and Peter Warren contributed to this report. 

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‘never saw him again:’ houston-area contractor wanted in four counties is accused of swindling homeowners, 51-year-old eusebio maldonado is accused of theft in two states.

Bryce Newberry , Reporter

PASADENA, Texas – A Houston-area contractor is accused of ripping off home repair customers in four different counties, some of whom were victims of natural disasters, court records reveal.

Eusebio Maldonado, 51, has open warrants in Texas and Louisiana, according to charging documents.

Maldonado’s alleged scheme dates back to 2019 and continued at least until late last year.

“I needed my roof replaced because of the tornadoes and the hail damage that was done,” said Maria Iris Yanez, a single mother who lives in Pasadena.

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After last year’s tornado, she hired Maldonado for repairs. He had been soliciting her parents for work at their home, she said, and when she needed it, her dad referred her to Maldonado.

According to court records, she paid him $3,500 for permits, materials, and work that still hasn’t been done. The total project was expected to cost around $8,500, she said.

“It’s really sickening that he can actually take advantage of people this way,” Yanez said.

Maldonado gave her many excuses about why the work wasn’t getting done, she said.

“He kept on saying that it was raining and that he couldn’t find any guys to to work, and then something about someone passed away in his family, then he said he was in Mexico,” she said.

In 2019, Maldonado is accused of stealing $5,000 from a Galveston County victim, records show. Then in 2020, he allegedly targeted hurricane victims in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana. And in 2021, he allegedly pocketed $13,000 from a Chambers County couple.

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“The only time we saw him here was whenever he picked up the money. We never saw him again,” said Melissa Salas, who hired Maldonado for a patio project at her Chambers County home.

Maldonado came recommended by her husband’s friend, she said. They had seen pictures of his past work, too, but after getting cash up front, he stopped showing up.

“He never delivered,” she said. “We trusted that man with our money, with our savings, and he just walked out like nothing,” Salas said.

He also gave them many excuses and never had the materials delivered for the project that would have ended up costing $23,000, she said. Their trust was shattered and they eventually hired someone else to do the job.

“He deserves to get some kind of punishment,” she said. “It’s not fair that people trust him and he just steals their money and walks away ."

Pasadena Police told KPRC 2 Maldonado is probably still operating in the Houston area and there might be additional victims. Police are asking for any tips of information that may help in the case.

• Santa Fe police accused of pushing mom’s face into ant pile during arrest

Yanez still hasn’t been able to make the much-needed repairs at her home.

"Next time, I will really do my research,” Yanez said. “I don’t know how he can sleep.”

BBB tips to protect yourself

According to the Better Business Bureau, it should be a red flag when any contractor asks for more than a third of the total project cost up front to buy materials.

“A legitimate contractor will have funds to purchase the material needed until the job is done, then you go ahead and pay the rest,” said Carolina Petriciolet with the Better Business Bureau.

• Don’t rush into hiring someone
• Do get a contract and quote that lays out labor and material cost
• Get references
• Make sure you have an accurate phone number and address for the contractor
• Be cautious of paying with an app like Zelle or Venmo, because it may be difficult to track them down later if they stop showing up
• Be cautious of someone going door-to-door to solicit business

Petriciolet said any legitimate contractor will accept payment in various forms, like credit card, debit card, or check.

If you do get scammed by a contractor, you’re encouraged to file a complaint with the BBB and contact local law enforcement. If you pay with a credit card, Petriciolet said you can also contact your bank to try to stop the payment.

Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Bryce newberry.

Bryce Newberry joined KPRC 2 in July 2022. He loves the thrill of breaking news and digging deep on a story that gets people talking.

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Houston Astros Cheating Again, Pitcher Suspended For Sticky Substance on Glove

Cole thompson | 19 hours ago.

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Are the Houston Astros trying to cheat their way out of the AL West cellar? Moments like Tuesday night at Minute Maid Park won't help their case.

Right-handed pitcher Ronel Blanco was ejected prior to the start of the fourth inning in a 2-1 win over the Oakland Athletics after umpires found a sticky substance inside his glove. Blanco was slapped with a 10-game suspension by MLB on Wednesday, thus hindering Houston's rotation, which currently ranks 27th in ERA at 4.78.

Blanco, one of baseball's breakout stars in 2024, left the dugout and met with first-base umpire Erich Bacchus, who performed a standard check of his glove. After further review, Bacchus called over the three other umpires for further inspection.

Crew chief and third-base umpire Laz Diaz determined the substance was ineligible for use, thus leading to the ejection. Through three innings, Blanco had been near-perfect, allowing four hits and a walk while striking out four A's. 

Blanco's glove was confiscated by Bacchus, who ran off the field with it and took it for further review. Following the game, Diaz said the glove would be sent to the league office for the commissioner's office to determine the actual substance. 

"I didn’t know that was illegal. I see other pitchers come in and do it, as well, so I thought that was normal." -  Ronel Blanco on the substance

Blanco, who currently boasts a 4-0 record with a 2.23 ERA in seven starts, said the substance was rosin he had put on his forearm and  the sweat coming off made the glove sticky. Diaz said the crew couldn't determine the actual substance, though it was sticky enough to get his fingers stuck. 

Blanco and Astros manager Joe Espada tried to plead a case to let him use a new glove and continue pitching, but the decision had already been made. The right-hander now awaits the decision from the league office to determine if he will be suspended, though Blanco, through a Spanish interpreter , said he would appeal the case given that this was his first offense.

“It’s something that’s obviously extremely frustrating. I want to go out there and compete and try to help the team and I couldn't." -  Ronel Blanco on appealing the case

The Astros (17-25), who illegally used a camera system to steal signs during the 2017 regular season and postseason en route to winning their first World Series over the Los Angeles Dodgers, are currently in fourth place in the AL West behind Seattle, Texas and Oakland. 

Catch up with  Inside the Rangers  on  Facebook  and  X .

COLE THOMPSON

Cole Thompson is a sports writer and columnist covering the NFL and college sports for SI's Fan Nation. A 2016 graduate from The University of Alabama, follow him on Twitter @MrColeThompson.

50 Breathtaking Day Trips From Houston

Houston’s unique geographical location offers diverse day trip options for Houstonians. Among the most popular options are excursions to Galveston Island, known for its sandy beaches and historic attractions like the Strand Historic District. Another favorite is Space Center Houston, offering an immersive space exploration experience.

The cultural hub of San Antonio with its historic sites, wildlife adventures in the Brazos Bend State Park, and the culinary delights in nearby cities like Austin roundup the myriad of exciting destinations within a short drive of the vibrant city of Houston.

For those seeking hidden gems, the serene Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge provides a peaceful escape into nature. The charming town of Brenham, with its bluebonnet-filled fields, is an ideal springtime retreat. Antique enthusiasts can explore the quaint shops in Round Top, while wine lovers can savor tastings in the Texas Hill Country.

However, what most others won’t tell you is that there is a wealth of destinations beyond these. Ever heard of Lake Houston Wilderness Park and Umbrella Alley in Baytown? Take a trip to the top of the San Jacinto Monument with us! Houstonians have the privilege of experiencing a rich tapestry of landscapes and activities just a stone’s throw away – and you’re in the perfect place to discover them all!

Also Read: 18 Best weekend Getaways from Houston, Texas

Houston's Best Day Trip Destinations

Best Houston Suburbs to explore on day trips

Houston is spread really far and white.

That means many of its suburbs also make perfect day trips from Houston, TX.

You can stay within the city and still plan a day trip to Katy or Woodlands. 

Related Posts: Best Things to do in Houston One Day in Houston Itinerary 20 Awesome Christmas Events in Houston

The Woodlands

The Woodlands is one of Houston’s most famous suburbs. 

Located north of the city, it is famous for its shopping, dining, and outdoor attractions.

People watch while the kids play at Market Street or take the free Town Center Trolley to Waterway Square. 

The Waterway Square is our favorite area.

Here you will find the beautiful water fountain.

It looks even more amazing when lit up at night. You can also take a cruise on the Waterway.

You can also go kayaking on Lake Woodlands, making this one of the popular day trips from Houston for nature lovers.

Distance – 40 mins

Kemah Boardwalk

The Kemah Boardwalk is one of the most fun day trips from Houston that you can plan for the whole family.

This amusement park has a delightful retro vibe.

Here you will find a variety of rides including a ferris wheel, roller coaster, and carousel.

You can purchase an all day pass which lets the kids enjoy unlimited rides on the boardwalk. 

The boardwalk also has many great restaurants and it is perfect for people watching.

Our kids enjoy the water views and seeing the boats in the inlet.

The sunsets on the Gulf of Mexico are also very beautiful on the boardwalk.

Also the boardwalk looks very pretty at night with the neon signs and exciting atmosphere.

We definitely recommend staying here until it’s dark. 

Distance – 1 hour

Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas

Katy is one of the oldest and most popular suburbs in Houston.

The area has plenty of historical, cultural, and urban attractions for families.

The Katy Heritage Society  Railroad Museum is a must for train loving kids.

They can see the historic depot and a vintage caboose.  

The Katy Mills Mall is an exciting destination for shopping.

Here you will find all the major brands as well as entertainment such as movies and arcade games.

For outdoor lovers, hike the mile long Mary Jo Peckham trail or go fishing at the lake. 

Distance – 35 mins

Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston is a must-visit when in the area.

Here you can learn all about human initiatives in outer space exploration.

This is a fascinating place to visit for science nerds and geeks.

We enjoy spending hours here looking at the exhibits such as astronaut uniforms, moon rocks, and debris from outer space . 

You can watch a space movie or take the tram tours to see the Saturn V Rocket, Astronaut Training Center, and Mission Control Room.

Spending a day at the Johnson Space Center NASA is definitely one of our favorite day trips from Houston. 

Clear Lake City

While Clear Lake City is home to Kemah Boardwalk and Space Center Houston, there are many other things to do in this exciting suburb.

You can go hiking at the Armand Bayou Nature Center.

You will be able to spot a variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles in the park.

The Lone Star flight Museum is also based here and is home to over 40 vintage aircrafts and aviation artifacts. 

Conroe is based around Lake Conroe and naturally, this area is great for different kinds of water sports.

You can go bass fishing or just rent a boat to spend a day on the water.

The Margaritaville Resort is based here and makes a great place to stay, if you’re looking for something more than a day trip.

The city also has many parks and a historic downtown district and that is great for a quick stroll. 

Distance – 50 mins

Sugar Land is one of our favorite day trips from the Houston area where you can visit museums and enjoy a cultural experience away from Houston’s busy downtown Museum District.

Here you can visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science Sugar Land campus.

Or let the kids enjoy at Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center.

The area also has many hiking trails and the beautiful Oyster Creek Park. 

Rosenberg and Richmond

Rosenberg is a small town located southwest of Houston.

The main attraction here is the Rosenberg Historic Downtown District.

Here you will find striking Western style buildings.

Most of them have been restored to their original glory and house boutiques, cafes, and antique stores. 

Rosenberg is also home to many other attractions such as the Fort Bend Museum,

where you can learn about the first colony established in the area in the 1820s…..

…..and the George Ranch historical park, a living history park in Richmond.

Brazos Bend State Park is also located here and is great to observe the night sky at the George observatory or go hiking and spot alligators. 

Spring was once famous for the railroad.

Since then, the suburb has grown by leaps and bounds yet Old Town Spring has retained the historic charm to attract visitors.

This historic part of the city has Victorian style buildings and is charming to take a walk.

You can spend the day eating delicious food at restaurants and cafes, sipping on drinks, and shopping at boutique stores. 

A must visit Spring attraction is the Houston Texas Temple.

Mercer Botanic Gardens are also located in spring.

Spring is also home to amazing parks, nature trails, and has lots of hiking.

During the holiday season, you will find some of Houston’s most fabulously decorated homes here.

This is the perfect day trip from Houston for those living within downtown area. 

Distance – 30 mins

Missouri City and Stafford

The Missouri City – Stafford area is home to one of Houston’s most Instagrammable spots, BAPS Shri. Swaminarayan Temple.

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple has excellent architecture and is a great place to admire the intricate carvings on its facade.

The temple is stunning and just amazing to visit.

The suburbs also have great parks where you can enjoy the natural views and local flora and fauna including the Cullinan Park and Kitty Hollow Park. 

Best Beach Day Trip from Houston

Houston is located in the Gulf Coast region of Texas.

That means it is pretty close to some of the best beaches in the Lone Star State .

So pack your bags with a swimsuit, sunglasses, and sunscreen and put a beach chair in the trunk.

Let’s have a fun day at the beach! 

Also Read: Best Beaches near Houston for a Beach Vacation

When you think about a day trip from Houston, Galveston is the first destination that comes to most people’s minds.

This island city is the perfect fun day trip.

If you want to relax on the sand and swim in the water, then visit either Stuart Beach or East Beach. 

If you love amusement rides, then visit Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.

Or spend the day at Moody Gardens.

Galveston has just about something for everybody and is one of the best beach towns in Texas . 

Distance – 55 mins

Galveston Island State Park

If you prefer undeveloped and unspoiled beaches over the beach umbrellas and beach crowds, then head to Galveston Island State Park.

Here you will likely have the beach to yourself. 

You can spend a relaxing day beachcombing for sea glass and seashells or go on hiking trails or bird watch on the bayside.

You can also build a sand castle or just splash in the ocean.

This natural paradise is the perfect antidote to Houston’s busy city life. 

Distance – 1 hr 5 mins

Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach located near Freeport, Texas in Brazoria County is an amazing beach day trip from Houston.

This is one of the cleanest beaches on the Gulf Coast of Texas.

It is much quieter and calmer than Galveston beaches and is a great alternative. 

We love driving to the beach along the scenic Bluewater Highway Trail.

Once there, you can play on the beach, swim, walk on the jetty, or go fishing at the Surfside Jetty County Park.

The jetty is very long and amazing for a romantic sunset stroll.

You can set up the grill, have a picnic, and watch the boats come into the port. 

Bolivar Peninsula and Crystal Beach

Bolivar Peninsula is one of the most exciting day trips from Houston for kids because of the Galveston-Bolivar ferry.

Once on the peninsula, you can drive or set up camp anywhere along the 27 miles of coastline. 

One of the most popular beaches here is Crystal Beach.

Along with the soft, powdery sand, you will also find several restaurants, shopping, and more here.

There are many other things to do on the Bolivar Peninsula including the lighthouse, birding, and the historic Fort Travis. 

Distance – 1 hr 30 mins

Sea Rim State Park

Sea Rim State Park located in Port Arthur is one of the hidden gems near Houston.

This pristine state park has about 5 miles of beach frontage and hardly any visitors. 

You can hike the Gambusia Nature Trail over the marshlands and spot lots of wildlife.

Or just spend a day on the beach and hunt for seashells.

The state park has excellent kayaking trails too. 

Distance – 1 hr 45 mins

La Porte 

Sylvan Beach Park in La Porte is an amazing beach day trip from Houston.

The beach and the water here is really clean and great for swimming.

The park also has one of the longest fishing piers in Texas.

The park is fun for the entire family as there is a play area right next to the beach. 

Besides the beach, La Porte has many other attractions such as the San Jacinto Monument and Museum, The La Porte Bay Area Heritage Museum, and the Governor Ross Sterling Mansion. 

Also Read: Houston to South Padre Island Road trip

Best Hiking and Birding Day Trips from Houston for nature lovers

Houston is also located close to many natural areas and outdoor attractions.

These are excellent for activities such as hiking, biking, birding, wildlife watching, and even camping if you want to extend your day trip. 

Here are some of the best day trips in Houston for outdoor lovers. 

Sam Houston National Forest

Sam Houston National Forest is one of the four national forests in Texas .

This national forest is the one located closest to Houston and is just 50 miles north of the city. 

The forest has multiple recreation areas including those located along Lake Conroe.

It is a popular recreation ground for those interested in hiking, camping, hunting, and wildlife watching. Sam Houston National Forest has lots of opportunities for water sports.

You can go fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the lakes on the lakes. 

The popular Lone Star Hiking Trail passes through the National Forest and is great for both short day hikes or multi day backpacking. 

Brazos Bend State Park

Brazos Bend State Park is a favorite with our kids for alligator spotting.

In fact, this is one of the best places near Houston to see alligators in the wild.

The park is located just 45 miles south of downtown and has plenty of hiking and biking trails. 

We especially love the boardwalk accessible Creekfield Lake Nature Trail.

The trail is just half a mile long and has wonderful views of the wetlands and its wildlife.

If you’re looking for more than a day trip then you can also camp within the park. 

The most exciting feature of the State Park is the George Observatory.

The observatory is located within the park and managed by the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

It is open to the public on Saturday nights.

Here you can enjoy stargazing at the night sky through the observatory’s telescopes. 

Angelina National Forest

Angelina National Forest, located in the Piney Woods region of Texas, makes a great outdoor day trip from Houston. 

Popular activities here include boating and fishing on the Sam Rayburn Reservoir, boarding and wildlife watching, hiking, biking, and scenic drives. 

The forest also makes a great fall day trip from Houston.

You can see splashes of vivid and vibrant fall colors amidst the dense forests of evergreen pine trees. 

Distance – 2 hrs 10 mins

Davy Crockett National Forest

This one is for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts!

Davy Crockett National Forest located north of Houston is named after the legendary frontier pioneer.

This amazing outdoor recreation and wildlife habitat has many hiking trails that go through its landscape of hardwood trees, evergreen pine forests. 

The forest is home to endangered birds and wildlife.

As such, birding and wildlife watching are very popular.

The Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is popular for water activities such as swimming, paddling, canoeing, boating, and fishing. 

Distance – 2 hrs

Sabine National Forest

Sabine National Forest is located east of Houston near the Texas Louisiana border.

The outdoor recreation opportunities in this national forest are dominated by the water sports on Toledo Bend Reservoir.

This massive reservoir is said to be one of the largest lakes in Texas. 

Visitors can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, canoeing, paddling, swimming, and even camping by the water.

The forest has numerous hiking and mountain biking trails as well as dedicated horseback trails.

The forest also offers excellent wildlife viewing and is a great fun day trip for the entire family. 

Distance – 2 hrs 50 mins

Big Thicket National Preserve

The Big Thicket National Preserve in Southeast Texas is one of the largest forests in the country.

The forest has over 40 miles of hiking trails and is an amazing natural paradise.

Inside the forest you will find creeks, bayous, and a river. 

On the hikes you can admire the natural ecosystem and see carnivorous plants such as the pitcher plant and sundew, beautiful bald cypress trees, and towering pines.

Apart from hiking, you can go kayaking or canoeing as well as bird watching in the forest. 

Some of the other popular ways to explore Big Thicket National Preserve include biking and horse riding on the Big Sandy Trail.

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent day trip if you want to spend time in the nature.

The best way to explore this preserve is through scenic drives on the park roads.

This preserve also has several well maintained boardwalks over the marshes and swamps. 

On the trails, you can spot many alligators, songbirds, water birds, and waterfowl.

The refuge also has a butterfly hummingbird garden.

This is an excellent day trip to take the kids and enjoy the outdoors on the Gulf Coast. 

Distance – 1 hr 25 mins

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge located in Freeport is an excellent place for birding and wildlife watching.

It is also a favorite with bikers, hikers, and wildlife photographers.

Hike the Big Slough Wilderness Area boardwalk trail and spot alligators.

Go on the auto driving tour to spot roseate spoonbills and sandhill cranes.

See the exhibits inside the Discovery Center to learn about local wildlife.

Hunting and fishing are also permitted in the reserve.

Best time to visit is during April when you can watch the migrating birds.

Goose Island State Park

Goose Island State Park is located about three and a half hours away from Houston in Rockport, Texas.

The park is most famous for the Big Tree which is one of the largest live oak trees in the country.

The tree is around 35 ft wide and is over centuries old. 

The park is also famous for its nature.

Because of its location on the southern tip of Lamar Peninsula amidst the bays, many bird species and animals call it home.

On a visit you can spot deer, armadillos, rabbits, the endangered whooping cranes, and blue crabs. 

Distance – 2 hrs 45 mins

Mustang Island State Park

Combine a beach day with a drive down the coast and some excellent hiking amongst the sand dunes at Mustang Island State Park.

The park has 5 miles of coastline where you can go beachcombing, swimming, or just relax on the beach.

The island is also excellent for bird watching and has many paddling trails. 

Distance – 3 hrs 36 mins

Best Small Towns to Visit on a Day Trip from Houston

Pack your car and drive west, the Eastern border of the Texas Hill Country and its amazing small towns beckons you.

Or drive north to the small towns in the Piney Woods region. 

Here are some of the best small town day trips from Houston.

Navasota makes an excellent day trip from Houston, especially during spring.

You can explore this charming town, visit Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, and even see the Grimes County Courthouse as well as Fanthorp Inn Historic Site which is just 10 mi away in Anderson . 

We love seeing the historic homes downtown in Washington Ave and Railroad St.

They have amazing architecture and some are even open for interior tours.

The Horlock Art Gallery and History Museum is also a great place to visit. 

Music is also a big attraction in Navasota and the city is must visit for all blues lovers.

Distance – 1 hr 15 mins

Time for some ice-cream!

Brenham is a favorite day trip for most Houston area families for one reason: Blue Bell Creamery!

You can go to the creamery in Brenham to see how the ice cream is being made from the observation platform.

And you can eat as many scoops of ice cream as you want for just $1 per scoop.

Our kids love visiting the Creamery. 

However a day trip to Brenham is not just about ice cream.

Historic Downtown Brenham is a very pretty place to explore and shop.

Here you will find charming architecture and stunning murals.

You can shop for antiques, souvenirs, and more.

Attractions like the Brenham Heritage Museum are worth a visit. 

Apart from Blue Bell and historic downtown, Brenham is also famous for its abundant Texas bluebonnets in the spring.

To see these beauties just drive around the Brenham countryside or visit the Texas Independent Trail through Independence and Chappell Hill. 

Distance – 1 hr 10 mins

College Station

College Station is a great vibrant day trip from Houston.

The city is home to Texas A & M University and has a very youthful vibe.

The University campus is also home to the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

Here you can see a replica of the oval office and also a part of the Berlin Wall. 

Take a stroll through historic downtown Bryan, see the art galleries and museums, and visit Santa’s Wonderland in the holiday season.

Another favorite with our kids is the Aggieland Safari where they can see the wild animals on a drive-through safari and even feed them. 

Baytown , located to the east of Houston, is a great place to visit for art and culture lovers.

There are several types of public arts, sculptures, and murals in downtown Baytown.

The city even holds an annual arts festival every year. 

The most popular attraction of Baytown is definitely the Umbrella Alley.

A canopy of rainbow colored, colorful umbrellas covers this previously unused alley.

Beautiful murals are located on the side walls.

The alley is very beautiful and one of the most Instagrammable places in Texas. 

Baytown also has many other attractions.

Spend a day splashing in the water at Pirates Bay Water Park or take the Lynchburg ferry across the Houston ship channel.

At the Baytown Nature Center, you will find miles of hiking trails in tranquil surroundings.  

Distance – 25 mins

While Texas City is located on the Gulf Coast, it doesn’t have a pretty beach as such.

That’s why we have included it in this list of the best small towns that you can visit on a day trip from Houston.

Our kids love seeing the vintage steam train locomotive in Noble Park. 

If you love shopping, then you will love the Tanger Outlets Houston located in Texas City.

Most renowned brands have a store here.

The Texas City Museum is another great place to visit.

Here you can see lots of historical artifacts including civil war era cannon, model trains, and exhibits related to the 1947 Texas City explosion disaster. 

Of course no trip to Texas City can be complete without visiting the Texas City Dike.

This fishing pier stretches 5.3 miles in Galveston Bay and is the longest artificial fishing pier in the world.

Reload riding down the dike and watch the fishermen and their boats come in.

You can also spot dolphins and enjoy the beach at the end. 

Distance – 45 mins

Rusk is a favorite with Houston area families for one reason: its home to the Texas State Railroad.

The rail depot offers scenic train rides on vintage trains.

There are a variety of themed train rides year-round including the Pumpkin Patch Express and the famous Polar Express during holiday season.

The train rides are an amazing day trip from Houston. 

Other things to do in the Rusk include walking over the Historic Rusk Footbridge, seeing the exhibits narrating the history of the area at the Heritage Center of Cherokee County, and exploring the charming city on foot. 

Distance – 2 hrs 40 mins

The most popular train excursion of the Texas State Railroad will take you to the charming town of Palestine.

Here you can see historic landmarks such as the Texas Jail House, the Railroad Heritage Center, and the Museum of East Texas Culture. 

Anderson County Courthouse is also located in Palestine and is a beautiful and photogenic building.

Palestine also has many parks including Davey Dogwood Park and Reagan Park where you can enjoy nature.

You can easily combine Rusk, Palestine, and the train ride in one day trip. 

During winter, the Palestine Polar Express is our favorite day trips with the kids.

Distance – 2 hrs 30 mins

Beaumont , located to the east of Houston, is an amazing cultural destination.

The most popular attraction here is Spindletop – Gladys City Boomtown Museum.

The museum commemorates the first discovery of oil in Texas at the Spindletop Hill Salt Dome.

Here you can experience life as it was during the time when oil was first discovered in Texas. 

Beaumont has many other cool museums including the Fire Museum of Texas, Clifton Steamboat Museum, Texas Energy Museum, and the Beaumont Children’s Museum.

The beautifully landscaped Beaumont Botanical Gardens are great for nature lovers.

Another cool attraction is Gator Country, where you can view several large alligators. 

New Braunfels

New Braunfels in the Texas Hill Country makes a great day trip from Houston.

The main attraction here is Gruene Historic District and floating in the Comal River.

The famous Gruene Dance Hall is located in the former ghost town. 

The two mile stretch of the Comal River in New Braunfels offers some of the best river tubing in Texas.

The Schlitterbahn Waterpark is also located in New Braunfels and is in great option if you don’t want to float down the river. 

Port Arthur

There are many other things to do in Port Arthur other than the Sea Rim State Park and that’s why we love visiting here on a day trip.

Our favorite is the Museum of the Gulf Coast. Here you can see artifacts ranging from the arts to history and music. 

The Pompeiian Villa is a historic home that is open for tours.

Built in the 1900s, the home is beautiful inside out. Sabine Pass Battleground which is the site of an important civil war era battle is also located in Port Arthur. 

Distance – 1 hr 20 mins

Victoria, Texas is located just under 2 hours from Houston near the Gulf Coast.

It is popular for its charming downtown which is home to many historic structures.

Be sure to admire the Victoria County Courthouse, DeLeon Plaza, and the Pumphouse building which is now home to a restaurant.

Kid-friendly attractions in Victoria, Texas include Museum of the Coastal Bend, Texas Zoo, and the Children’s Discovery Museum.

Best Historic Attractions to visit on a day trip from Houston

There are a variety of historical attractions near Houston which are excellent to visit for native Texans.

They make a great stop for the entire family and provide kids an opportunity to experience Texas history in its original setting. 

Washington on the Brazos

Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site is known as the Birthplace of Texas.

It was here that the Texas declaration of independence was signed and the idea of the Republic of Texas was formed in 1836. 

Visitors to the historic site can see Independence Hall where the declaration was signed.

Other historic buildings on site include the star of the Republic Museum and the Barrington plantation homestead.

Washington on the Brazos is an excellent place to take kids and introduce them to the history of Texas. 

San Jacinto Museum and Monument

San Jacinto Monument, located in La Porte, commemorates the site of the Battle of San Jacinto.

This final and victorious battle in the Texas Revolution led to the formation of the independent Republic of Texas.

The historic site is a must visit for any Texan. 

The over 563 ft high towering column is a beautiful architectural structure.

The grounds have a reflecting pool and an amphitheater.

The museum located at the base of the monument has many artifacts dedicated to Texas history.

Visitors can also write to the top of the monument and see amazing views of the Houston Ship Channel. 

Battleship Texas

USSS Texas was commissioned in 1914 and is the only battleship in existence that has fought in both the World Wars.

Today, the historic Battleship Texas is dedicated as a museum ship and is open to visitors for guided tours.

It is located near the San Jacinto Monument. 

There are a couple of ways that tourists can experience the ship.

The easiest way is a self-guided tour where you can see the sleeping quarters and learn about life on the ship.

Naval and maritime enthusiasts can also take a 3 and 1/2 hour long hardhat tour which goes into the boiler room, plotting room, and many other areas not accessible on the general tour. 

For the ultimate experience you can go on the overnight education program, where you can spend the entire night on the ship and visit areas that are not open to the public such as the gun turret.

Battleship Texas is currently undergoing renovation and hence all tours are stopped at the moment. 

San Antonio Missions and the Alamo

The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, located in San Antonio, is home to four Spanish frontier missions built to spread Christianity.

The 4 missions within the park and the Alamo together are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Visitors can see these five missions on a day trip to San Antonio.

The five missions are Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, Mission Espada, and the Alamo Mission.

While the most popularly visited mission is the Alamo, each of the missions is really beautiful and has something unique for visitors. 

Distance – 3 hrs 5 mins

Read: Houston to San Antonio Drive Guide

Sam Houston Memorial Museum

The Sam Houston Memorial Museum is located in Huntsville and makes a perfect day trip from Houston.

Here you can learn about the life of Sam Houston who had a prominent role in the formation of the Republic of Texas and was its first president. 

The museum is located within the Sam Houston State University.

This is an excellent place to understand the early history and culture of Texas in the 19th century.

There are plenty of historic buildings on the ground and a variety of informative and interesting exhibits. 

Sabine Pass Battleground Historic Site

Located in Jefferson County near Port Arthur, this historic site was home to a significant Civil War battle.

The Confederate army held off a Union attack in September 1863 at Sabine Pass.

This was a key port for the shipping of Confederate supplies and hence was of significant importance in defending Texas. 

Visitors to the site can admire a statue of Confederate Lt. Dowling who led the army to victory.

You can also see a scaled model of the civil war era fort and the battleground.

There is a monument dedicated to the Union soldiers who died in the battle. 

Distance – 1 hr 35 mins

Best Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Houston

One caveat: these are not really day trips since there are lots of things to do in these Texan cities.

However, if short on time we have seen these cities on a day trip as well. 

I mean, we have once seen both San Antonio and Austin on a single day trip from Houston while showing guests around the state! 

You do need to leave early and devote a whole day to make these day trips work.

They also make excellent weekend getaways from Houston. 

The Dallas metropolitan area makes an excellent day trip from Houston.

Enjoy the museums in downtown Dallas including the 6th-floor museum at Dealey Plaza, the Museum of Art, and the Perot Museum. 

If you love nature, then the Dallas Arboretum is a must visit.

The botanical gardens look fantastic year round and have a variety of seasonal attractions such as the pumpkin patch in fall and the colorful azalea gardens in spring. 

Distance – 3 hrs 30 mins

A day trip to Arlington means a trip to Six Flags over Texas theme park.

This amazing park has a variety of roller coasters for all ages but it’s thrilling rides are most admired by the teens.

It really makes a fun family getaway from Houston.

You can also plan a trip to Arlington without visiting Six Flags.

There are many things to do in Arlington including the amazing river legacy Park and it’s walking trails, the Museum of Art, and football games and concerts at the AT&T Stadium. 

You can also see a space themed show at the Planetarium at the University of Texas Arlington.

The international Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame is a quirky attraction for the whole family. 

Distance – 3 hrs 50 mins

In the early days, Fort Worth was an important trading post for cowboys.

Today, that part of the Texan Heritage is preserved at the Fort Worth Stockyards and the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. 

The Fort Worth Stockyards is one of the best attractions in Texas.

From the historic buildings to the clothes selling western outfits, hats, and boots, the Stockyards are a lot of fun.

You can step back in time and order a drink at the salon or see a live rodeo. 

Distance – 3 hrs 55 mins

If you’re looking for day trips from Houston during the holiday season, then consider a trip to Grapevine .

The city located north of Dallas is known as the Christmas capital of Texas. 

Grapevine is just beautiful to visit during the holiday season when a million lights light up the historic downtown district.

Kids can even ride a North Pole Express to meet Santa, Claus making this a highlight of the holiday season. 

Distance – 3 hrs 48 mins

San Antonio

San Antonio is an amazing cultural and historical destination from Houston.

The main attraction of the city is the Alamo.

This historic site has been the rallying point in Texas’s War for Independence from Mexico. 

The San Antonio Riverwalk is another amazing place to visit.

Take a stroll and admire the architecture and vibrant nature of the Riverwalk.

Have a meal by the waterside and enjoy a cruise on the river. 

Distance – 3 hrs

The state capital of Texas is just a little over 2 hours away from Houston and can be easily visited on a day trip.

See the beautiful Texas state capitol building, enjoy the campus of University of Texas Austin, and take a dip in the famous Barton Spring Pool. 

Enjoy a meal on Rainey Street and take a stroll in Zilker Park before enjoying the city’s famous music scene at night.

Austin is known as the live music capital of the world and you can easily find a band performing in the entertainment districts of 6th Street and Rainey Street. 

Distance – 2 hrs 35 mins

Rockport, located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, makes an excellent beach getaway.

It is home to the popular Rockport Beach.

Here you can swim in the waters, enjoy fishing, and spot a variety of birds. 

But there are many other things to do in Rockport besides the beach.

You can visit the Texas Maritime Museum to know all about oil drilling and pirating off the Gulf Coast.

See the amazing sculpture garden at the Rockport Center for the Arts and enjoy fresh seafood meals in the city. 

This is one of the best budget friendly day trips from Houston, Texas.

Corpus Christi

Another nice beachy getaway on the Gulf Coast of Texas!

Corpus Christi makes an excellent day trip from Houston for a variety of reasons.

You can see the USS Lexington Museum ship or enjoy the touch pools at the Texas state aquarium. 

The drive to the city itself is also a delight as you will pass by smaller coastal fishing towns and fresh fruit stands in the countryside.

The beaches around Corpus Christi are also some of the most beautiful and calm beaches in Texas. 

Distance – 3 hrs 13 mins

Lake Charles

Looking for an excellent day trip from Houston across the border in Louisiana?

Then plan a visit to Lake Charles.

This day trip is full of nature, culture, and delicious food.

You can also visit a casino and enjoy gambling in Lake Charles. 

And drive the Creole nature trail to enjoy the Cajun foods, culture, and wildlife.

Sport and alligator or an osprey and listen to Zydeco music.

Return downtown to see the famous Mardi Gras museum and the beautiful homes in the Charpentier Historic District. 

Also Read: Houston to New Orleans Drive

Interested in knowing about Fredericksburg, Port Aransas , and other amazing destinations from Houston?

Read our post on the best road trips from Houston . 

We hope you liked our post on the most awesome and terrific day trips from Houston.

Did we miss any amazing destination near H-Town? Let us know in the comments.

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