texas day trip

33 Fun and Interesting Day Trips in Texas

Texas is a state with endless possibilities when it comes to day trips.

Whether you want to experience the laid-back charm of small towns….

or enjoy outdoor attractions and activities,

you can find something exciting just around the corner in Texas!

If you are looking for some peace, one of the best places to visit is the Texas Hill Country .

This lush paradise offers serene hiking trails and scenic swimming holes – perfect to escape into nature.

West Texas is home to many stunning landscapes that offer unparalleled views, including Big Bend National Park.

For a more adventurous outing, head over to Amarillo and explore some famous sites like Cadillac Ranch or Palo Duro Canyon.

Best Day Trips in Texas

Texas is a large and diverse state, providing visitors with an endless array of options for day trips.

History buffs will enjoy exploring the state’s many battlefields and cultural sites,

….while nature lovers can hike through the woods or paddle down one of the many rivers.

For those who prefer a more urban experience, explore the bustling metropolis of Austin or enjoy the small-town charm of Fredericksburg!

Here are our favorite day trips in Texas to visit this summer.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

This safari-style park is located near San Antonio and is home to diverse animals from all around the world including deer, zebras, ostrich, and llamas.

Visitors can take a tour of the drive-through ranch in their vehicles.

There are also many opportunities to feed and interact with the animals, making it a great place for families.

The adjacent Natural Bridge Caverns is one of the state’s largest cave systems and offers tours for all ages, making it one of the top day trips in Texas.

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District in Fort Worth is a must-visit for any fan of the Old West.

The area was once a major livestock market and today, visitors can explore cowboy museums, watch a mock gunfight, or see the cattle drive.

There are also plenty of great restaurants and shops to enjoy in the area.

Fort Worth has plenty of other attractions as well, such as the Fort Worth Zoo, Fort Worth Modern Art Museum, and the Kimbell Art Museum.

San Antonio

San Antonio is one of the most popular day trips in Texas and for good reason!

The city is home to The Alamo, the San Antonio River Walk , SeaWorld, and much more.

There are also several great historic sites to explore such as the San Fernando Cathedral and the Missions National Historical Park.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas theme park is also located in San Antonio.

Fredericksburg

One of our favorite Texas day trips in the Texas Hill Country!

Fredericksburg is a charming German town with plenty of historical sites, quaint shops, and excellent restaurants.

The city is located in the heart of Texas wine country and visitors can enjoy tours at local wineries or take part in their annual wine festival.

The nearby rolling hills, natural areas like Enchanted Rock, and scenic drives make Fredericksburg extremely popular with day-trippers.

Galveston Island

Beat the Texas heat by planning a day trip from Houston to Galveston Island beaches.

The island is home to several attractions including Strand Historic District, Moody Gardens, Schlitterbahn, and the Historic Pleasure Pier.

There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and bird watching.

Don’t forget to enjoy some of the delicious seafood that the island is known for!

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Hamilton Pool Preserve in Dripping Springs is a popular day trip from Austin .

The stunning crescent-shaped pool features a waterfall and is surrounded by gorgeous limestone cliffs.

Visitors can swim in the refreshing water, go hiking along several trails, or simply enjoy the scenery.

Austin itself makes a great day trip or weekend trip in Texas.

Downtown Austin is a great place to spend a day if you are looking for an urban adventure.

The area is home to many popular attractions including the Texas State Capitol, Lady Bird Lake, and Sixth Street.

Austin is known as the live music capital of the world and hosts plenty of music festivals and concerts.

There are also plenty of excellent restaurants and bars to enjoy in the area.

Inks Lake State Park

Inks Lake is one of the top state parks in the Lone Star State and also one of the top day trips in Texas.

Located near Burnet, Inks Lake is a great destination for hiking, swimming, and fishing.

There are also plenty of picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.

Visitors can camp in the park or mountain bike the trails or jump in the Devils Waterhole, a popular swimming hole.

Waco , located in central Texas, is a great fun day trip option for families.

It has a rich history and many interesting attractions.

Visitors can enjoy walking tours or take a riverboat ride on the Brazos River.

Families can explore the Waco Mammoth National Monument , where the remains of a herd of mammoths have been preserved in the fossil record.

Or tour the Dr Pepper Museum, which chronicles the history of the iconic soft drink.

Magnolia Market at the Silos , a popular shopping and dining destination, is also worth a visit.

There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining in Waco’s historic downtown district.

Glen Rose – #1 of Day Trips in Texas for kids

Glen Rose is known as the Dinosaur Capital of Texas.

The area is home to Dinosaur Valley State Park, where visitors can see fossilized dinosaur tracks of creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago.

The tracks are preserved in the Paluxy River bed and can be seen on a wet, fun hike.

For a more hands-on experience, visitors can go fossil digging at Dinosaur World or see the lifesize replicas.

Glen Rose also boasts several other attractions including the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center and the Big Rocks Park.

Also Read: Best weekend trips from Dallas

Caddo Lake State Park

Looking for an East Texas day trip? Caddo Lake is a great option.

The state park is home to many cypress trees and Spanish moss, making it a beautiful place to explore.

There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

Visitors can camp or hike through the woods to see the wildlife or go birdwatching for a variety of local species.

Granbury is a charming small town in north Texas that makes for a perfect day trip from Fort Worth or Dallas.

The downtown area has many historic buildings, shops, and restaurants to explore.

Explore the charming town square and see popular attractions including the Hood County Courthouse, Granbury Opera House, and Granbury Railroad Depot Museum.

There are also several wineries in the area that offer tours and tastings.

Other must-visit spots include Lake Granbury, which offers excellent water sports and outdoor recreation as well as a sandy beach.

Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is a great day trip destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors.

The park offers hiking, camping, and scenic drives.

There are also plenty of opportunities to see wildlife including bighorn sheep, javelinas, and coyotes.

Big Bend is also home to one of the darkest night skies in the country, making it a great spot for stargazing.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is another excellent option for outdoor lovers.

This is one of the most remote national parks in Texas and located close to the border with New Mexico.

It makes an excellent West Texas day trip.

Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, is located here and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

There are also plenty of hiking trails, some of which lead to waterfalls and other natural features.

The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, making it a great spot for wildlife watching.

Located in the Piney Woods region of East Texas , Jefferson is amongst our favorite Texas small towns.

The town is known for its history and architecture, with plenty of historic buildings to explore.

Jefferson also has a lively downtown area that hosts events throughout the year.

Visitors can shop at antique stores or enjoy live music at one of the many venues in town.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest canyon in the country and offers stunning views of the landscape.

Popular activities at the park include hiking, camping, horseback riding, mountain biking, and birding.

See the Texas longhorn herd while you are here!

In the summer, visitors can also enjoy a musical production at the outdoor amphitheater.

Port Aransas

Port Aransas is a popular beach town on the Gulf Coast of Texas.

The town is known for fishing, with multiple piers and boat launches available to visitors.

Beach lovers will enjoy the many miles of sandy beach area, and there are also several parks and nature trails in the area.

Beavers Bend State Park

Looking for a great outdoors destination in Oklahoma?

Beavers Bend State Park is a perfect choice.

The park has many miles of hiking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding or take a scenic drive through the park.

In the fall, the park is a popular spot for leaf-peeping as the leaves change color.

Arlington – One of the best urban day trips in Texas

Arlington is a city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex that is home to many attractions.

Sports fans can tour AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, or Globe Life Park, home of the Texas Rangers.

Other popular attractions include Six Flags Over Texas – famous for its thrill rides and the Hurricane Harbor water park.

Arlington is also home to many museums, including the Arlington Museum of Art and the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is a great spot for nature lovers.

The state park near Austin has many miles of hiking trails through wooded areas and along the Pedernales River.

Visitors can also enjoy swimming, fishing, and camping at the park.

In the fall, it’s a great spot to see the leaves change color.

Padre Island National Seashore

Located on the Gulf Coast, Padre Island National Seashore offers some of the most secluded beaches in Texas.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing, or simply relax on the beach and watch for marine life.

The park is also a popular spot for birding and visitors can see many different types of migratory birds throughout the year.

Davy Crockett National Forest

Davy Crockett National Forest is a U.S. National Forest located in East Texas.

The forest is a great destination for hikers, with miles of best Texas trails to explore.

Other recreation opportunities in the forest include camping, fishing, swimming, biking, picnicking, and bird watching.

The forest is home to several species of animals and birds, including white-tailed deer, bobcat, coyote, opossum, armadillo, mockingbird, and woodpeckers.

It’s also ideal for hunters, as the forest is home to many different types of game.

In the fall months, it’s a popular spot for leaf-peeping as the leaves change color.

Balmorhea State Park

Balmorhea State Park is located in the West Texas desert.

The park is home to the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool.

Visitors can also enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking at the park.

Rockport is a seaside town on the Gulf Coast of Texas.

The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, with many beaches and parks along the coast.

Fishermen will love Rockport’s many fishing piers and boat launches, while beach lovers can enjoy miles of sandy shoreline.

Other popular activities in Rockport include bird watching and shopping.

Texas State Railroad, Palestine

The Texas State Railroad is a popular attraction for visitors to Palestine in East Texas.

This historic railway runs through the beautiful countryside of the region, offering scenic views and plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

Visitors can enjoy a day trip train excursion in spring to see the dogwoods and in fall to see the foliage.

In winter, the railroad hosts the popular Polar Express train excursion where kids can meet Santa Claus.

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is a popular North Texas day trip from Dallas for families.

Located along the border between Texas and Oklahoma, Lake Texoma is one of the largest lakes in the United States.

It is known for its diverse ecosystem and abundant wildlife.

This beautiful lake attracts visitors from all over the region with its serene, clear waters and scenic surroundings.

The clear waters are teeming with fish, including bass, crappie, and catfish.

Canyon Lake

Canyon Lake is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts in Central Texas.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, sailing, water skiing, and hiking at Canyon Lake .

Guadalupe River State Park located nearby is popular for river-tubing.

In addition to the water recreation, Canyon Lake is also a great spot for camping and wildlife viewing.

Our favorite Texas day trip during the holiday season!

Grapevine, located just outside of Dallas, is the Christmas Capital of Texas.

During the season, visitors can enjoy a variety of holiday festivals, including an annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

The town also boasts charming shops and restaurants, as well as a historic downtown area.

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

Take a road trip along Route 66 in the Texas panhandle to Adrian, Texas!

Adrian is the mid-point of Route 66 and is home to the iconic Midpoint Cafe.

Along the way, visit Cadillac Ranch on a short day trip from downtown Amarillo .

This quirky public art installation features ten Cadillacs buried nose-down in the ground.

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is another excellent Gulf Coast option for a day trip.

The city offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and boating.

Visitors can also explore the USS Lexington Museum, the Texas State Aquarium, or the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center.

You will also find several amazing beaches in Corpus Christi .

Our favorite day trip from Austin is to Wimberley , a charming town in the Texas Hill Country.

This quaint town has art galleries, antique shops, charming bed and breakfasts, and plenty of restaurants.

Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Blue Hole Regional Park for hiking, swimming, and cliff-diving.

Canton, Texas is amongst best day trips in Texas for shopping and antique lovers.

The town is home to the First Monday Trade Days, the largest flea market in the United States.

Held on the first Monday of every month, this massive market features thousands of vendors selling everything from clothes to furniture to handmade goods.

Monahans Sandhills State Park

Monahans Sandhills State Park is a must-visit for anyone spending time in West Texas.

This unique state park is home to miles of sand dunes that are perfect for hiking, picnicking, and camping.

Visitors can also enjoy sandboarding and off-road vehicle driving in the park.

Texas is a large state with a diverse range of landscapes and activities to enjoy.

No matter what your interests are, you’ll find plenty of options for day trips in Texas.

So pack your car and a sense of adventure, and get ready to explore all that the Lone Star State has to offer!

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27+ Fantastic Texas Day Trips (2024)

Need a break from the stresses in life?

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

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

Seeking the chance to reconnect with nature?

Looking to learn something new?

Want to be transported to another world or time?

Or just relax poolside with a drink in hand?

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

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

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

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

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How to get around Texas

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

Day Trips in North Texas

1. eisenhower state park.

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

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

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

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

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

2. Gaylord Texan Resort & Conference Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. River Legacy Nature Center in Arlington

Looking for a taste of the outdoors? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Cleburne Railroad Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All aboard!

5. Big Rocks Park in Glen Rose

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

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

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

6. Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose

Did you know dinosaurs once roamed the wild west?

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

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

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

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

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

So much to do to fill your day!

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

7. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose

Interested in exotic animals instead of dinosaurs?

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

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

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

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

Enjoy the safari views while you dine outside.

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

8. Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park in Dallas

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

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

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

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

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

9. Granbury

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stick around for more fun day trips in Texas.

10. Texarkana, Arkansas

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

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

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

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

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

11. Beaumont

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips in Central Texas

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

12. Magnolia Market at the Silos

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Dr Pepper Museum

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

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

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

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

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

14. Horseshoe Bay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. College Station, Texas

Football fans?

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Fredericksburg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. New Braunfels

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

There’s literally something for everyone here.

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

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

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

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

Encounter over 40 exotic species at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch !

Waterski, wakeboard and play paintball at Texas Ski Ranch !

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

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

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

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

18. Sugarland

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

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

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

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

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

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

West Texas Day Trips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips in South Texas

20. greune historic district.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. Natural Bridge Caverns

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

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

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

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

Don’t miss this extraordinary subterranean experience!

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

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

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

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

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

22. Heritage Museum of Texas Hill Country

Still craving more dinosaurs?

Pull into the Heritage Museum of Texas Hill Country .

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

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

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

23. Corpus Christi

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

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

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

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

Fancy something more exciting?

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

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

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

Happy day trip planning!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. Galveston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trips in East Texas

26. davy crockett national forest.

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

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

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

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

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

27. Angelina National Forest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Texas Travel 365

15 Interesting Texas Day Trips (Hidden Gems, Small Towns And More!)

August 23, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365 //   1 Comment

If you are looking for ideas for great Texas day trips you are in the right spot! Texas is a massive state, so it’s no surprise that it is bursting with fun things to do. In Texas, one day you can be exploring the desert landscape and the next be skiing on snowy slopes. It truly is one of the best states in the South for unique weekend getaways and one-day trips.

Because Texas is so big, a lot of these one-day trips are within driving distance to one of the major cities in Texas. The major cities in Texas are generally considered to be Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Fort Worth. And because the day trips are all day trips away from these cities, we have not included them as day trip options on this list. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t worthy of their own day trip adventures!

On this list, we have at least one day trip from all of the major Texas cities. So no matter where you are in Texas, there is a fun day trip in Texas on this list for you. There are gorgeous beaches, interesting landscapes, ancient history, space exploration, and so much more to be found in these one day trips in Texas. So, let’s take a look at 15 interesting Texas day trips!

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Hamilton Pool is one of the best day trips from Dallas and even one of the best day trips from Fort Worth. It is also one of the best things to do in Texas ! It is conveniently close to Austin Texas as well! The Hamilton Pool is located in the town of Dripping Springs and is part of the Dripping Springs Falls. The falls flow over the edge of the cave and into a calm pool of water known as the Hamilton Pool.

You will need to take a short hike down to the pool in order to get to it. The Hamilton Pool also requires reservations, which helps protect the site from overcrowding. If you plan to go swimming in the pool, you will absolutely need to make reservations in advance. It is a popular attraction and time slots sell out fast. The Hamilton Pool is a beautiful natural wonder that is one of the makes for one of the best Texas day trips. It is especially great if you are looking for day trips from Dallas or day trips from Forth Worth.

Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill Country consists of several towns and cities. The main cities that make up the Texas Hill Country are Austin, San Marcos, New Braunfels, Fredericksburg, and Sonora. You’ll find that Southern and central Texas are the regions that are typically considered to be the Texas Hill Country. People flock to the area every year to see the beautiful Bluebonnets blossom, which is something you can only see in the Texas Hill Country.

If you aren’t able to make it to see the Bluebonnets, there are plenty of other things you can do and see in the Hill Country. There are wineries and breweries, charming small towns, and unique attractions. You can also take a road trip through the Texas Hill Country, which is a beautiful and fun way to see that part of Texas. The Texas Hill Country is one of the best day trips from Austin.

Canyon Lake

Canyon Lake is one of the best day trips from San Antonio or Austin, and you’ll find there are so many things to do there. The beautiful area of Canyon Lake is often considered the jewel of Texas Hill Country. The reservoir that makes up the massive lake was created in 1927 after a dam was built. Now it is a popular destination for those looking for a relaxing beach trip.

You can enjoy all kinds of watersports at Canyon Lake, including swimming, boating, scuba diving, and fishing. If you aren’t in the mood for a fun day in the sun, Canyon Lake has plenty of other activities available for you to enjoy. Learn about the Texas Hill Country at the Heritage Museum of the Texas Hill Country, visit the Canyon Lake Gorge, sample wines at the local winery. It is one of the best day trips from San Antonio, or even day trips from Austin.

Jacobs Well

Jacobs Well is just about an hour outside of Austin, which makes it one of the best day trips from Austin. It is also a hidden gem in Texas. The water in the well consistently stays a cool 68 degrees and it’s a great way to cool down in the Texas heat. What makes the water so cool is the underground cave system that makes up most of Jacobs Well. At certain spots, you can see underwater caves that are up to a mile deep.

Native Americans revered the wells and even today they are an alluring destination for divers. Jacobs Well is considered ‘one of the most dangerous diving spots in the world’ so only experienced divers are allowed to swim its depths. If you aren’t an experienced diver, don’t worry. There are other, safer, and more shallow areas of the well that are typically open to the average swimmer. When you visit though, please keep in mind the dangers and don’t try anything risky. If you do that, you will thoroughly enjoy a dip in Jacobs Well. It’s another great option for day trips from Austin.

Barton Springs Pool

Within Zilker Park in Austin Texas, you’ll find one of the coolest places to visit in the South. The Barton Springs Pool is about 3 acres and extends into the 358 acres that make up Zilker Park. Because this natural spring is fed from multiple underground springs, the temperature of the water typically stays between a refreshing 68-70 degrees. Because of its beauty and cool waters, it has become a popular spot for visitors in Austin to check out.

If you are planning on trying to enjoy the waters, you will need to purchase entry passes. However, there are certain days of the week where you can swim from 9-10 pm or 5-8 am without an entry pass, but you do so at your own risk. There is an area around the pool where you can relax and lounge, and different areas have different depths. The deepest the pool gets is 18 feet. Barton Springs Pool is absolutely one of the best Texas day trips.

Space Center Houston And The Johnson Space Center

If you are looking for one of the best day trips from Houston, take the short drive to the Space Center Houston and the Johnson Space Center. The Space Center Houston is one of the most interesting museums in Texas and the Johnson Space Center is a short drive away. In the Space Center, you’ll find a museum that takes you through the history of America’s space program.

There are several exhibits for you to walk through. Each one corresponds to a different aspect or time in NASA’s history. Some of them are things you may never have a chance to do anywhere else. Like touch a moon rock – yes, from the actual moon. You can also step into the cockpit of a replica space shuttle.

You can also learn about what NASA hopes to see as the future of space travel and exploration. At the Johnson Space Center, you’ll be able to tour the area where real live astronauts train and see a docked space shuttle. Depending on when you visit, you may get the opportunity to see one of NASA’s astronauts at work! It’s easily one of the coolest day trips from Houston.

Window Trail Waterfall

Texas is also home to some beautiful waterfalls. One of the best is in the Big Bend National Park and is known as the Window Trail Waterfall. The Window Trail Waterfall is accessed via a 5-mile roundtrip hike on a heavily trafficked trail. It is so heavily trafficked because it is one of the most popular hiking trails in Big Bend. You’ll need to pay the entrance fee to enter Big Bend National Park, which varies in price depending on what type of vehicle you are using to get onto the park.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting the Window Trail Waterfall is that this is absolutely a seasonal waterfall. That means that during the Texas dry seasons, this waterfall is pretty much non-existent. The best time to hike to Window Trail is just after the rainy season in Texas. That is when the waterfall is fed by overflowing creeks and becomes the tallest waterfall in Texas. If you are looking for outdoor adventures and fun Texas day trips, this is the one for you.

Fredericksburg

In the beautiful Texas Hill Country, you’ll find one of the cutest small towns, Fredericksburg. Not only is Fredericksburg super cute, but you’ll also find tons of fun things to do there. It is close to both Austin and San Antonio, so it’s a great day trip option from either city. It was founded in 1846 by German immigrants and you can still find a lot of the German influence throughout Fredericksburg. There is unique German-inspired architecture, plenty of German food, and more. It is probably the only place in Texas where you can experience a slice of Germany.

If you don’t have a lot of time, but want to see some of the highlights, then we suggest doing the Fredericksburg Scavenger Hunt. You can find it in the town’s downtown district and it sends you on a fun journey through the small town’s history, landmarks, and it’s also a competition. This activity is especially fun for younger kids! After the scavenger hunt, stop into some of the shops on Main Street, sample some German food, or watch a live performance at Luckenbach Outpost. It’s another great option for day trips from Austin or day trips from San Antonio.

The city of Tyler Texas is best known as the center for rose cultivation in the United States. It is one of the best day trips from Fort Worth or even day trips from Dallas. If you love roses, you will absolutely want to visit Tyler during the blooming season. The blooming season in Tyler typically takes place in October. But if you are planning to visit just for that, keep an eye out for the year’s blooming schedule. Like with most blooming plants, the weather greatly affects how and when they bloom.

For those who aren’t really interested in rose blooms, another great time to visit Tyler is during the town’s yearly Christmas celebration. Tyler is one of the most festive places to celebrate Christmas in Texas and it makes for a magical vacation. The town turns into Santa Land, where you’ll find over 2 1/2 million lights twinkling all over the large garden and forest. It is an awesome Christmas activity for kids. You’ll see popular cartoon characters created in lights, elves, and of course, Santa himself. It’s a great option for winter day trips from Dallas or day trips from Fort Worth.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Near the town of Glen Rose Texas is the Dinosaur Valley State Park. Before heading to the State Park, we suggest spending some time in Glen Rose as well. It’s called the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas” and there you’ll find quite a few dinosaur-themed activities. Kid’s love walking amongst the dinos at Dinosaur World and there are also activities for adults like museums, art galleries, and a walking history tour.

The main attraction in the area is of course the Dinosaur Valley State Park though. As you walk around the park you’ll know you are walking where dinosaurs definitely once stood. In the riverbank, you can see fossils of dinosaur footprints that have been preserved over millions of years. They also have an interpretive center that is a cool place for kids and adults to learn about the State Park’s dinosaur history and more modern flora and fauna. It is one of the best day trips from Dallas or day trips from Fort Worth.

Palmetto State Park

If you are looking for interesting places to visit in Texas for one day, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Palmetto State Park. Palmetto State Park is located in Central Texas and is named for its abundance of dwarf palmettos. Dwarf palmettos grow to the size of a large fern bush, but they look like mini palm trees. They are typically found in the Southeastern United States and Mexico, so the Palmetto State Park is a great place to see them.

You can hike the main Palmetto Trail and walk through the majority of the dwarf palmetto growth in the park. It’s a really cool trail that feels almost like a tropical paradise in the middle of Texas. The park also has a river and lake where you can enjoy swimming, tubing, boating, and paddle boarding. Palmetto State Park is one of outdoor adventurer’s favorite trips in Texas to go on! It is also one of the best day trips from Houston.

Galveston Beach

Along the coast of Texas, you can find some truly beautiful beaches. One of Texas’ most popular beaches is Galveston Beach. Its 32-mile long coastline is full of beautiful sandy beaches, grassy dunes, and gorgeous teal waters. Travelers love it so much that it is even considered one of the best beaches in the South. Galveston Beach is also unique in that on the 32 miles of beach you’ll find activities besides just your standard sun lounging and swimming.

For the thrill-seekers, there are companies who will meet you on the beach and teach you how to surf. If you aren’t a big sand person, but still want to enjoy the view, you can walk the seawall. It’s a paved walkway that gives you stunning views of the Gulf Coast. You’ll also find restaurants and shops along the seawall. Another option is to explore Pleasure Pier where you’ll find carnival rides, boardwalk shops, and restaurants. This is easily one of the best trips in Texas for beach lovers.

Castroville

Another Texas small town with European flair is the town of Castroville. Castroville is often called the ‘Little Alsace’ of Texas because of the Catholic Alsatian immigrants that first settled there. Alsace is a cultural region that used to be part of Eastern France, Germany, and Switzerland. So, picture the town Belle is from in Beauty and the Beast and that’s pretty close to what the region of Alsace looked like, at least architecturally. It is easily one of the best day trips from San Antonio.

In Castroville, you’ll find remnants of the Catholic Alsatian immigrants most notably in the architecture of the town. Many of the homes and buildings were built in a traditional European style. It is very different from many of the ways other buildings were being built across the frontier region. The town itself is also set up to resemble a European farming village. So you’ll find no modern grid system that is most common in US cities. It’s like stepping into another country, and it’s part of one of our favorite Texas road trips that takes you to several small towns like Castroville.

New Braunfels

One of the coolest weekend getaways in Texas is a trip to New Braunfels. The town is best known for its river-tubing. With two rivers and lots of tour companies to choose from, it’s easily the best place to go tubing in Texas. For a group of adults going on a tubing adventure, we suggest taking a trip down the Guadalupe River.

It has the longest tubing trips with rushing and exciting rapids. It is also known for being the tubing spot if you are looking for a party vibe. The more family-friendly tubing river is the Comal River. It is the shorter of the two rivers, so you won’t be spending as much time on the water as you might on the Guadalupe tours. But, it does have some really fun water chutes that almost are like waterslides. It’s definitely the more popular option for families with kids.

If you want to enjoy some water fun that isn’t tubing, there’s something for you too. New Braunfels also has an awesome German-inspired waterpark called Schlitterbahn Waterpark. New Braunfels is one of the most fun Texas day trips if you are looking to get a break from the Texas heat. It is a great day trip from San Antonio, and one of the longer best day trips from Houston.

Caverns Of Sonora

The Caverns of Sonora are easily one of the best hidden gems in Texas. They are a National Natural Landmark about 8 miles outside of the small town of Sonora. Sonora is about halfway between Big Bend National Park and San Antonio. When you visit you’ll get a guided tour through the cavern’s many crystal corridors and see some unique natural rock formations.

There is also an area of the caverns known as the Crystal Palace. This part of the cavern system is accessible through a tour that takes you through nearly two miles of gorgeous cave passages. On this 1 hour and 45-minute tour you’ll descend 360 steps and find yourself almost 155 feet below the surface. While you are at the Caverns of Sonora, you can also pan for gemstones, peruse the gift shop, and even find camping and hiking trail in the area. It’s one of the best day trips from San Antonio.

There are so many great places for Texas day trips, partially because it’s such a large state! That also means that there are so many cool varieties of things to do and see in Texas. If one of these day trips in Texas has inspired you to plan a day trip of your own, we’d love to hear about it in the comments!

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April 6, 2023 at 7:44 pm

I didn’t realize there was so much to do. I’m a new resident and was thrilled to see this.

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15 Best Day Trips from Dallas, TX

Life in the Big D is fun, fast-paced, and a food-lover’s dream. But every once in a while, it’s good to get out of the big city and enjoy one of the best day trips from Dallas!

These fun Dallas day trips will help you discover adorable historic towns, immerse yourself in nature, and get in touch with your inner cowboy.

Each destination is less than 3 hours away from Dallas, so you can spend time exploring instead of driving. 

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.

Day Trips Less Than 1 Hour From Dallas

Fort worth, tx.

Fort Worth often gets lumped in with Dallas as one big Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

But you’d be mistaken if you thought the two cities were twin-like in activities and attitude.

Like its nickname implies, Cowtown is Dallas’ country cousin, where you’re likely to see more cowboy hats than business casual attire. 

Drive 40 minutes west of Dallas and spend the day watching one of the two daily cattle drives (11:30 am and 4:00 pm) in the Fort Worth Stockyards , stroll through the Fort Worth Water Gardens, and grab a bite to eat at one of 30+ restaurants in Sundance Square.

After a day spent exploring, two-step the night away at Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s biggest Honky Tonk!

It’s true what they say… everything’s bigger in Texas!

Visiting on a Friday or Saturday? The Fort Worth Stockyards hosts the world’s only year-round rodeo! 

If you’ve reached your cowboy quota for the day, enjoy a smoother side of the city with a cocktail and some music as you pay homage to the city’s deep-running jazz roots at the Scat Jazz Lounge. 

Driving Distance From Dallas

40 minutes.

Denton is the “lil d” to the “Big D” of Dallas.

It’s an artsy college community with all the charm of small-town Texas just 45 minutes away and is one of the easiest day trips from Dallas.

At the heart of the quaint city square sits the Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum, a free museum focusing on the town’s culture and history.

Built in 1896, the courthouse was restored in 2004 according to the original blueprints and is an iconic symbol of the city. 

While you’re here, enjoy the live music scene, bolstered by talent from the local college, or support the burgeoning craft beer scene by visiting a local brewery!

Another great idea is to watch a play at the iconic Campus Theatre, which opened in 1949 as a movie theater and was later reimagined as a performing arts facility.

45 minutes.

Terrell, TX

Located just 40 minutes east of the city, Terrell is a great day trip from Dallas if you don’t want to spend too much time in the car.

Developed as a railroad town in 1873, historic roots run deep.

Visit the charming Historic Downtown District and admire the classic storefronts and hand-painted murals. 

Terrell is far from the Gulf, but scuba-certified visitors can take a dive at Scuba Ranch, where you just might meet Sisco the Shark, the largest freshwater shark in the US. (Don’t worry… he can’t bite!)

From the depths of the lake, head to a high-flying adventure.

Celebrate the bond between Great Britain and the US with a visit to the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum.

During WWII, British cadets were sent to flight training schools across the US, and Terrell’s school was the first and largest, graduating over 2,200 Royal Air Force and United States Army Air Corps cadets between 1941 and 1945. 

Greenville, TX

Once known as the “cotton capital of the world,” Greenville is now a charming small town that celebrates its historic roots. 

Shop in the Historic Downtown and take a step into the past.

Read the historical markers to learn about the people and industries that once thrived in Greenville, and try to find the four buildings on the US Department of the Interior’s National Register of Historic Places list. 

55 minutes.

On the weekend prior to the first Monday of a new month, head one hour east of the city, because Canton is the place to be!

First Monday Canton is a flea market of epic proportions with more than 5,000 vendors selling everything from antiques to clothing to home decor.

Shopping works up an appetite, and Canton offers some of the best fried food outside the Texas State Fair!

Munch on a giant turkey leg and red velvet funnel cake, then wash it down with some freshly squeezed lemonade while exploring one of the best places to visit in North Texas .

1 hour. 

Day Trips from Dallas Within 2 Hours or Less

Just over an hour southeast of Dallas, Athens offers all the charm of a small town with the amenities of a big city.

Most buildings in their historic downtown were built in the early 1900s and surround the 1913 Henderson County Courthouse, a 3-story Classic Revival style landmark. 

Nature lovers will feel right at home with a visit to Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, where you can see an operational fish hatchery and learn about native Texas fish.

Get even closer to native fish when you scuba dive in Athens Scuba Park, where you can explore the wreckage of a 60′ Hawker 600 Jet, a Lockheed C-140 Jet Star, Clint Eastwood’s film crew’s triple-deck party barge, and a DART bus.

1 hour, 15 minutes.

Granbury, TX

Get wild in Granbury, Texas with a visit to nearby Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose!

Walk in the fossilized footsteps left by dinosaurs and stand in awe of giant dinosaur replicas once displayed at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair. 

Venture into more recent history with a trip to the Historic Downtown Square, Texas’ first downtown square listed on the National Historic Register.

Visit charming boutiques, historic landmarks, and Granbury’s own saloon!

Learn more about the history of this Texas lakes and plains region town at the Hood County Jail Museum and Granbury Historic Railroad Depot. 

1 hour, 20 minutes.

Lake Texoma, OK

One of the largest reservoirs in the US, Lake Texoma was built by the US Army Corps of Engineers on the Oklahoma/Texas border.

Although it attracts 6 million visitors each year, the sheer size of the lake ensures that you’ll be able to jet ski, water ski, fish, or simply relax far away from any crowds. 

The region provides ample opportunities for horseback riding, hunting, hiking, biking, and camping for outdoor enthusiasts.

When you’re done adventuring, nearby wineries and distilleries offer libations for the gastronomically inclined! 

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Aside from being home to the Baylor Bears, Waco has recently become an enormously popular attraction for home renovation specialists and reality TV lovers.

Visitors flock to Waco to visit Magnolia Market at the Silos, owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s Fixer Upper with hopes of running into the famous couple… or at the very least, fixing up their own home! 

All that shopping is bound to work up a thirst! Visit the Dr. Pepper Museum, celebrating America’s oldest soft drink.

Book in for their Make-A-Soda experience or simply peruse the extensive soft drink memorabilia. 

Embark on another once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at the Waco Mammoth National Monument, where you can sign up for a Dig Shelter Tour and see the bones of a nursery herd of Colombian Mammoths who died here approximately 65,000 years ago.

When these bones were unearthed in 1978, they were the first discovery of their kind in North America! 

1 hour, 3o minutes.

If you want to see the world through rose-colored glasses, hop in the car and head east to Tyler, the rose capital of America!

If you’re visiting in October, you’ll see the city in full bloom, with roses of every variety and color on display.

Don’t miss the Tyler Rose Garden, which boasts 38,000 rose bushes over 14 acres! 

Tyler is also home to some of East Texas’ most unique craft beverages.

Take a free, self-guided Thirsty Pines Tour to savor the local flavor while soaking in the Art Deco and neoclassical-style buildings, rolling hills, and rich ranchland of the region.

When hunger hits, be sure to stop by Stanley’s Famous Pit BBQ for live music and some of the best brisket and baby back ribs in East Texas! 

Explore the Pineywoods on foot with a visit to Tyler State Park.

Thirteen miles of trails provide ample opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and enjoying the scenery.

Check out Whispering Pines Nature Trail, a one-mile loop built by The Civilian Conservation Corps in 1938, featuring pine trees, a wading pool, and a waterfall.

1 hour, 40 minutes.

For stunning natural beauty just two hours from Dallas, head north and cross the border into Davis, Oklahoma.

Pack a swimsuit, because you’ll love visiting Turner Falls State Park, where you can take a dip in the swimming hole and stand in awe of one of the largest waterfalls in Oklahoma– the 77-foot Turner Falls.

After you’ve cooled off, get the adrenaline flowing at the nearby 777 Zip, a 777-foot zip line toward Turner Falls for stunning aerial views of the park. 

When the weather is nice, take a hike through the Arbuckle Mountains.

This ancient mountain range is the oldest formation between the Rockies and the Appalachian Mountains, so every step you take is steeped in history while you’re surrounded by natural beauty. 

Dallas Day Trips Within a 3-Hour Drive

Possum kingdom state park, tx.

Just over 2.5 hours west of Dallas, Possum Kingdom State Park may have a funny name, but the area promises serious fun for everyone.

Possum Kingdom Lake boasts a variety of fish, and you can expect the aquatic equivalent of traffic jams on summer weekends with jet skis and boats galore.

Don’t miss the Hell’s Gate party cove, where you can link up with your friends and spend the day in the sun or watch one of the best 4th of July fireworks shows in Texas! 

Out of the water, hiking trails boast 360° views over the picturesque cliffs of the Palo Pinto Mountains and Brazos River Valley. 

2 hours, 35 minutes.

Caddo Lake State Park, TX

Caddo Lake State Park is 2 hours and 40 minutes east of Dallas, but you’ll feel like you’ve entered an entirely different world. 

Explore the bayous, dotted with bald cypress trees draped with Spanish moss, and experience the pure serenity of nature.

Hike the trails or paddle the waters in a canoe or kayak, but I don’t recommend swimming, since alligators have made their home in this lake!

But, who can blame them?

With over 70 species of fish in the lake, fishermen aren’t the only ones excited to make a catch! 

2 hours, 40 minutes.

Broken Bow, OK

At nearly three hours northeast of the Big D, Broken Bow is the furthest destination on this list of day trips from Dallas.

Forget all of your big city anxieties, and let the serenity of Broken Bow’s untouched beauty envelop you. 

Aquatic adventures abound as you canoe, kayak, or tube down Mountain Fork River or rent a SUP board on Broken Bow Lake.

If you have a fishing license, you’ll enjoy casting a line in one of the stocked trout streams or catch-and-release trophy areas. 

If you prefer land-based escapades, take a hike through Beavers Bend State Park, trot through the Ouachita Mountains on horseback, or ride around on an ATV through Broken Bow’s best trails.

No matter the mode of transport, the views are guaranteed to be stunning! 

2 hours, 50 minutes.

Jefferson, TX

Visit the 19th-century town of Jefferson where you’ll experience the beauty of historic homes, charming hotels, and over 100 historical landmarks as you make your way through town.

Prefer something spooky over sentimentality?

Jefferson is regarded as the most haunted small Texas town, and you can take a ghost tour to learn about its history, legends, and maybe even meet the long-departed residents. 

Want to stay the night? The Kahn Hotel is one of the top 10 most haunted hotels in Texas… check in if you dare! 

2 thoughts on “15 Best Day Trips from Dallas, TX”

If you travel to Terrell, Tx between apx. May 15-August 15th……be sure to stop at Ham’s Orchard just outside of Terrell. The homemade soft served peach and strawberry ice cream is worth the trip there. They sell lots more than ice cream. Look for their website online. There is also a Buc-ee’s nearby.

Peach ice cream AND a nearby Buc-ee’s?! I’m sold!!

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25 Best Weekend Getaways in Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Texas Cities for Weekend Getaways

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

Have a city break on your mind?

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

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

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

San Antonio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big Bend National Park

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

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

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

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

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

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

Float the River

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

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

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

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

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

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

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

Dinosaur Valley State Park

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

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

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

Pedernales Falls State Park (+ Johnson City)

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

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

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

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

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

Fredericksburg

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

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

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

Want to hike off all that good food?

Consider climbing nearby Enchanted Rock during your stay!

New Braunfels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dripping Springs

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

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

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

Beach Getaways in Texas

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

South Padre Island

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

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

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

Port Aransas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Six Flags Fiesta Texas (San Antonio)

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

Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington)

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

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

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

Schlitterbahn (New Braunfels)

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

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

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

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About Kate Storm

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

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Thank you so much for this information! Very helpful 😀

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21 Best Day Trips from San Antonio

S an Antonio is seriously one of the best places in the great state of Texas. There's so much to do within the city, from historical sites, arts and culture to mouthwatering food. Why go anywhere else, right?

But the truth is that one of the best things about this fabulous city is that there are tons of awesome things to do within a short drive. Need convincing? No problem, this list has 21 of the best day trips from San Antonio . Choose from cute small towns, beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, historic German towns, amazing state parks, and cool swimming holes. There’s something for everyone.

Let's get into it so you can see why day trips from San Antonio are another reason it's one of the best places to be in the Lone Star State.

1.  Fredericksburg

In just over an hour, you'll be in the charming town of Fredericksburg . One of the best small towns in Texas and one of the most rewarding day trips from San Antonio. You'll love the celebration of its German heritage, which is in everything from food and drink to architecture.

With over 100 wineries in and around Fredericksburg, it’s the best place to go wine tasting. Don’t miss Enchanted Rock, located a short distance from Fredericksburg.

2.  New Braunfels

In around 30 minutes from downtown San Antonio, you'll be in the awesome town of New Braunfels . This is where I moved to in 2022. I love living along the Guadalupe River in a small city that is conveniently close to San Antonio.

Known for its German heritage, you'll be in for the best bratwurst, beer, and maybe even some German music, and of course, the Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Plus, the beautiful Guadalupe River is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing.

Don’t miss visiting the Gruene Historic District. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time in this special neighborhood. Stroll along and step into the shops for fun souvenirs at Gruene General Store or buy yourself a cowboy hat at Gruene Hat Company.

Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, is one of the best places to hear live music. There’s also Gruene Grove, which is an outdoor venue, and it’s an awesome place for live music and bratwurst and ice cream, three of my favorite things in life! I’m always surprised when San Antonians tell me they haven’t been to Gruene yet; it’s a fabulous place for a quick getaway.

3.  Canyon Lake

If you're looking to get some time on the water (besides the San Antonio River), head to Canyon Lake. Known as having the clearest lake water in the Lone Star State, it's the best place for everything water-related. You'll have fun swimming, fishing, and kayaking in Canyon Lake.

In around an hour, you'll be at the shore, making it one of the easiest day trips from San Antonio.

4.  Corpus Christi

No matter how you define a fun day, Corpus Christi has what you're looking for.

Need a beach day? This city has over 100 miles of shore and a bunch of beaches . Some are in the Gulf of Mexico; some are in the calm bay waters.

Want to brush up on your history? Head to the USS Lexington Museum .

Want more? Then how about the Texas Aquarium, Selena Museum, or South Texas Botanical Garden. The list goes on. And it's all just 2.5 hours from San Antonio.

5.  Austin

Austin became my adopted hometown back in 1999, when I visited for a few weeks and fell in love with the place, and I lived there for over 15 years. These days, everyone knows that Austin is a super fun place to visit.

You’ll love visiting the Texas State Capitol, one of the famous landmarks in Texas . It’s one of the best free things to do in Austin . Another fun free thing to do is visit Mayfield Park, where there are free-roaming peacocks.

Austin is well known for its crazy good music and food scene. Don’t miss out on visiting Zilker Park, Zilker Botanical Garden, Lady Bird Lake, or seeing the bats fly out from under Congress Avenue Bridge.

Since it only takes about 1-1.5 hours to reach Austin, it’s clearly one of the best day trips from San Antonio.

6.  Castroville

In a short 30-minute drive to the west is Castroville, another one of the best day trips from San Antonio. I love taking day trips to Castroville from New Braunfels, but from San Antonio you’re even closer, so it’s a super easy day trip.

There's so much to discover in Castroville. Sure, you've heard about the great German towns of Texas , but in Castroville you'll be able to see Steinbach Haus, which was built in the mid-1600s and given to Castroville as a gift from Alsace, France.

Other buildings in town date back to the 1840s Alsatian immigration. You can get a booklet from Steinbach Haus, which includes a long list of historic buildings and information about each one. So it’s easy to put together your own historic walking tour of Castroville.

Be sure to visit the Landmark Inn State Historic Site, St Louis Catholic Church, and also the original (and tiny) St Louis stone church.

7.  Guadalupe River State Park

Guadalupe River State Park is a favorite for anyone in San Antonio looking to cool off within a short drive. Here, you'll be able to swim, tube, fish, and kayak in the river. With over 1,800 acres in the park, there's so much to explore on foot, bike, and even horseback.

It only takes about 45 minutes to reach Guadalupe River State Park from downtown. No wonder it’s a favorite day trip from San Antonio.

8.  Wimberley

For those looking for awesome swimming holes in Texas, set your sights on Wimberley. In just over an hour, you'll be enjoying everything Wimberley has to offer. including one of the best swimming holes in Texas, Blue Hole . Just be sure to make reservations in advance.

Besides an amazing swimming spot, Wimberley is a quirky town with lots of character and a bunch of artfully painted giant cowboy boots around town. You’ll love everything in Wimberley, from the art galleries to the wineries, distilleries, and breweries. No wonder it’s one of the best day trips from San Antonio.

9.  Lost Maples State Natural Area

Less than two hours – that's all it takes to get from downtown San Antonio to Lost Maples State Natural Area . You can't beat the fact that in just two hours you'll be far from the hustle and bustle of the city, surrounded by the beauty of Mother Nature.

It might seem like a completely different world, but in reality, it's one of the best day trips from San Antonio for getting back to nature.

10.  Boerne

Boerne is yet another one of the best German towns in Texas that's super close to San Antonio. All you need is a half hour to reach Boerne. It’s pronounced bur-nee, by the way.

With brats, beer, and German-themed fun, it's no wonder it's one of the better day trips from San Antonio.

Boerne’s Main Street is perfect for strolling. You’ll love all the boutiques and places to grab a bite. Don’t miss the craft beer scene in Boerne and if you happen to visit on a Saturday be sure to visit the Old Jail Museum.

11.  Natural Bridge Caverns

Looking for an otherworldly experience for your next day trip from San Antonio? At Natural Bridge Caverns you'll be headed underground to explore the awesome geological formations that can only be found below the earth's surface.

This is literally one of the coolest places to visit in the summer because the underground temps are much cooler than outside. Enjoy the natural air conditioning while touring the caverns. This is one of the first places I visited when I moved to Texas, and I love taking people to see the stalactites and stalagmites at the caverns.

Above ground, there's plenty more to do, like ropes courses and gem mining. And the best part? It will only take about half an hour to reach, making it one of the best day trips from San Antonio.

12.  Luckenbach

Luckenbach may be a tad bit small, but it's got heart and is an icon in country music history, making it a must on this list of day trips from San Antonio. The main things to see are the Luckenbach General Store, Dance Hall, and Music Venue. 

The drive will only take about an hour from San Antonio. It's best to visit when there's an event happening. Otherwise, plan to visit Fredericksburg on the same day – it's only 13 miles away.

13.  Garner State Park

Since the 1940s Garner State Park has been a favorite summer destination and one of the best day trips from San Antonio. So, what's the deal? As a stellar state park, there's tons to do, like hiking, swimming, and tubing down the Frio River.

At Garner, you don't have to lug everything with you. Here you can rent innertubes, kayaks, and even barbecues. The thing that makes Garner State Park really stand out is the nightly dances in the summer.

14.  Pedernales Falls State Park

Just about an hour and a half north of San Antonio, you'll find Pedernales Falls State Park . What makes this park so special is how the Pedernales River flows over large limestone slabs, creating the unique falls.

Folks of all ages love enjoying the flow of the falls. In the park you can also swim, kayak, hike, and bike. Clearly, Pedernales Falls State Park is one of the best day trips for anyone looking to enjoy Mother Nature.

15.  Shiner

Beer enthusiasts rejoice! Shiner is home to the classic Shiner beer. Brewed in the Spoetzl Brewery since 1909, lucky for us it's only about an hour and a half from San Antonio. And during spring this is a good area for Texas bluebonnets too.

Yes, you could pick up a bottle at the local corner store but there’s nothing quite like touring the brewery. Seeing how it all happens and sampling the many different beers they make. Really, it’s a rite of passage for any Texan.

16.  Lockhart

When it comes to Texas barbecue nothing compares to Lockhart. Named the "Capital of Texas Barbecue" you've got to know you're in for some mouthwatering deliciousness.

You'll have your choice from several stellar joints like Barb’s BQ, Terry Black's Barbecue, and Smitty's Market to name a few. You could spend a few day trips from San Antonio trying a different barbecue each time.

Beyond the food, don’t miss the Caldwell County Courthouse, Caldwell County Museum, and Lockhart State Park.

17.  Kerrville

Kerrville is a place where you'll find culture and outdoor activities. Luckily for us, it's just over an hour away, making it one of the best day trips from San Antonio.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Kerrville-Schreiner Park. The park's 517 acres are ideal for hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking on the Guadalupe River.

For a bit of culture don't miss the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center or the Museum of Western Art.

Music lovers may want to stick around for a few days to attend the Kerrville Folk Music Festival at the end of May through early June.

18.  Blanco State Park

Blanco State Park is small but mighty compared to some other state parks on the list of best day trips from San Antonio. Although it encompasses just over 100 acres of land, Blanco State Park has plenty to do.

Cool off in the waters of the Blanco River, it’s a fun place to go kayaking in Texas. Families with small ones will love the shallow wading pool and the Fall Dam. Tubing and kayaking are fun and easy with rentals in the park.

19.  Dripping Springs

In under 1.5 hours you'll be in the town of Dripping Springs. As the gateway to Hill Country, it's one of the best day trips from San Antonio.

Calling Dripping Spring home, Hamilton Pool is one of the best watering holes near San Antonio. You'll love swimming in the crystal clear water in the cool cave-like rock formation. Just be sure to make a reservation before heading to Hamilton Pool.

With 7 wineries, 11 breweries, and 6 distilleries, Dripping Springs is a great place to sip it all.

20.  McKinney Falls State Park

Located in South Austin, McKinney Falls State Park could have been included in the section on that great city. But instead, this state park is so awesome that it deserves its own spot on the best day trips from San Antonio.

Experiencing Onion Creek as it flows over the limestone falls is really something. You’ll love swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, and camping in the park. And it only takes 1-1.5 hours to get there from San Antonio.

21.  Cascade Caverns

Located only 3 miles south of Boerne, it’s about a 40 minute drive from downtown to reach Cascade Caverns . With such a short trip, there’s no reason holding you back from one of the easiest day trips from San Antonio.

Here, you'll go deep into the earth to explore caves created hundreds of millions of years ago by Mother Nature. Tours run daily, taking you into the caves, and are available to nearly everyone. Just make sure to book a tour in advance.

The article 21 Best Day Trips from San Antonio first appeared on Solo Trips and Tips

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The 7 most wonderful day trips from Austin

Apr 23, 2024 • 8 min read

Head to nearby Fredericksburg to explore the Pioneer Museum and try some German cuisine © Harmon Li for Lonely Planet

The state capital of Texas has built an impressive reputation as a cultural and artistic hub in recent years – people cannot get enough of Austin and what it has to offer.

But don't let its endless attractions (live music, galleries, food, oh my!) distract you from the delights that lie just beyond the city limits. The Hill Country is filled with phenomenal hiking, scenic lakes and rivers, charming small towns and top-tier wineries.

Why not extend your city break and indulge in some fun day trips before packing up? These are seven of our favorites within a two-hour drive of Austin, Texas.

1. Explore the River Walk and visit the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas

Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

If you can spare a few days to visit San Antonio , grab the opportunity. Its Spanish colonial architecture makes it one of the most beautiful cities in the US. But if you can only spare a day, take a leisurely wander along the 15-mile River Walk  that connects multiple districts such as Downtown and the popular Pearl District, home to a food hall, farmers market and excellent shopping. 

A visit to San Antonio wouldn't be complete without learning about the city's Spanish colonial past and its vibrant Mexican culture today. The San Antonio Missions National Historic Park features five historic Spanish missions, including the Alamo , which are all connected by a bike path.

Afterward, immerse yourself in the Chicano community at El Mercado , a traditional Mexican market full of shops with Mexican-made products, art, traditional food stalls, restaurants, bakeries, and musical and artistic performances.

How to get to San Antonio from Austin:  The easiest way to get to San Antonio from Austin is to drive down I-35. However, you could also take a bus with Greyhound or MegaBus, or hop on the Amtrak Texas Eagle train. An Amtrak coach ticket from Austin to San Antonio is cheap, but the journey takes about 3.5 hours – about three times longer than traveling by bus or car.

2. Fredericksburg is a surprising wine destination

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

People may not associate Texas with fine wines but the small town of Fredericksburg has really made a name for itself in the last few years. Over 100 wineries and vineyards (and one distillery) surround this charming town and offer different types of tastings and experiences for every palate.

While you could skip a trip into town and just visit the wineries, don't deny yourself a good time. Sample the city's German heritage in the cuisine of local restaurants, explore the Pioneer Museum  and admire the architecture of the Vereins Kirche . German culture aside, the downtown area is filled with cute clothing shops and gift stores that are worth exploring.

How to get to Fredericksburg from Austin:  Most travelers drive from Austin to Fredericksburg and spend the day exploring the town and wineries before returning to ATX in the evening. However, a Greyhound bus is the most affordable transportation option.

You can also book half-day wine tours from Austin with Austin Detours or Texas Wine Tours . They will likely not stop in Fredericksburg itself though, so if you want to spend some time in the town, you'll need to book a private tour or take your own car.

3. Hit the trails at Pedernales Falls State Park

Travel time: 1 hour

Austin is surrounded by some of the best state parks in Texas, but our favorite is  Pedernales Falls State Park . It's home to a beautiful river and a mix of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails that take you along rocky outcrops, through forests to overlooks and even a waterfall.

Yes, you can go swimming in the Pedernales River, as well as kayaking or canoeing. Spend a few hours at the park or camp overnight, but make sure to book your reservation well in advance as the park often reaches its capacity by mid-morning and will then close to those without permits and reservations.

Extend your stay and explore more of the Lone Star State on two feet – these are our seven favorite hikes in Texas.

How to get to Pedernales Falls State Park from Austin:  The park is a 32-mile drive west of Austin on Hwy 290 followed by a turning north onto route 3232 for 10 miles. There are no bus or train connections.

4. Eat in Lockhart, the Barbecue Capital of the State

Travel time: 35 minutes

They say you can't visit the Lone Star State without tasting the barbecue , so it's a good thing that the barbecue capital of Texas is just a short drive from Austin. Lockhart was given the Barbecue Capital honor in 2003 by the Texas Senate, and since then, travelers have been making their way to the small town to taste the best smoked, fall-off-the-bone meats.

The four most popular spots in Lockhart are Black's Barbecue , Smitty's Market , Kreuz Market  and Chisholm Trail Bar-B-Q . You can expect slow-roasted meat over oak wood and some phenomenal German-inspired sausages. We highly recommend going on a BBQ crawl between the restaurants and tasting different cuts and sides. Sure, you'll be full by the end, but you'll be able to say you had a true old-school barbecue-tasting experience.

How to get to Lockhart from Austin:  You could easily drive or get a cab to Lockhart, but if you're on a budget, take the 1516 Orange Route Interurban bus from Austin to Lockhart and back. Get off at the Lockhart HEB stop, as it's within walking distance of the town's best barbecue joints.

5. Tube the river in San Marcos, Texas

Travel time: 40 minutes

River tubing is a super popular summer activity in Texas, and the San Marcos River is among the top two destinations for it in the state (the Guadalupe River is the second). Grab some snacks and a floating cooler full of beverages and spend a half or full day tubing the river.

If you have your own tube, you can use the free drop-in spot from San Marcos City Park . Otherwise, rent a tube from the Lion's Club , which includes an unlimited shuttle pass. The shuttle will pick you up downstream and return you to the launch spot as many times as you'd like. There are also lots of other rental tube outfitters located at different parts of the river.

If you'd rather explore the river at night, book a Crystal Kayak Glow Tour with Paddle SMTX . It uses clear kayaks with colored lights for its night tours.

How to get to San Marcos from Austin:  If you don't have a car to get from Austin to San Marcos, you're in luck – the Interurban Coach has you covered. Take the 1510 Yellow Route or the 1517 Express Gold Route from Austin to San Marcos, both of which are about an hour-long ride. An all-day pass on the Interurban Coach is only $6. Another option is the Austin to San Marcos Amtrak line on the Texas Eagle. A coach ticket can be as cheap as $5 and the ride is only 45 minutes long.

If your main purpose is to go tubing in San Marcos, you can book a dedicated excursion from Austin. ATXcursions  has a shuttle service from central Austin to San Marcos. A tube rental and ice chests (with ice) are included in the price of the ticket. Plus, you can drink and snack on the shuttle there and back.

6. Party on the water in Lake Travis

Lake Travis is very popular among Austin locals and has a bit of a reputation as being the city's "party lake." The lake itself is 63.75 miles long and has over 271 miles of shoreline, making it a fantastic destination to rent a boat, jet ski, kayak or canoe. Devil's Cove is where the party is at – people tie their boats together as they hang out, drink and enjoy the Texas sun. 

If you don't want to rent a boat, you can go fishing at Lake Travis or admire the view from above on a zipline . Don't forget to grab a bite at the Oasis , the largest outdoor restaurant in Texas with stunning lake and sunset views. It has live music, too!

How to get to Lake Travis from Austin:  The lake is a 20-mile drive northwest of Austin. There are no public transport options, but you can take a cab or an Uber/Lyft if you'd rather not drive.

7. Enjoy small-town fun in Wimberly 

Travel time: 50 minutes

The Hill Country is full of delightful small towns, and any Austinite will tell you that Wimberly is a great day excursion. Spend some time among the boutique stores and art galleries in the Historic Downtown before grabbing a meal at the CreekHouse Kitchen and Bar or a wine tasting at the Hill Country Wine Shoppe .

Experience the Wild West at Pioneer Town , an old-timey town with cool buildings that the whole family will love. If one day isn't quite enough, the Wimberly area is full of cabin rentals and hotels with spas. It offers adventure like horseback riding and ziplining, artsy activities like glass blowing and even tastings at a rum distillery.

And if you travel to Wimberly in the summer, don't forget to visit the Blue Hole Regional Park , Cypress Falls Swimming Hole  or Jacob's Well Natural Area . These swimming holes offer a cool respite from the sweltering Texas heat.

How to get to Wimberly from Austin:  Trust us when we say that a car is necessary to visit Wimberly – it's a 37-mile drive southwest of Austin. You could take the Texas Eagle Amtrak train from Austin to San Marcos and then get a 25-minute taxi, Uber or Lyft ride from San Marcos to Wimberly, but it's difficult to get to all the destinations around town without your own car. 

Ready to plan your trip to Austin?

Find the  best times to visit Add  these experiences  to your itinerary Pick up a souvenir at one of  our favorite independent shops Get to know Austin like a local in these neighborhoods

This article was first published Jan 6, 2020 and updated Apr 23, 2024.

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The 15 Best Weekend Getaways In Texas For Your Next Trip

Whether you want small-town charm, scenic views, or outdoor adventures, Texas has it.

The good thing about Texas being as big as it is—almost 270,000 square miles to be exact—is that it means there is no shortage of destinations worth visiting for a packed-full weekend. Texas has small towns that feel like a charming step back in time, big cities with vibrant culture, and scenic nature parks that offer endless outdoor adventure. Basically, you won't be getting bored or be left short on Lone Star spirit, whether you're looking for a seasonal escape, family outing, or girlfriends' trip. While you might not be able to visit every one of these 15 best Texas weekend getaways, you can certainly try.

Here are our favorite recommendations for weekend trips in Texas.

Fredericksburg

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is the perfect small-town destination and is easily accessible for a weekend jaunt from all of Texas' big cities. The town dates back to 1846 when German immigrants founded it and still maintains its authentic German heritage to this day. From over 100 wineries and tasting rooms to a Main Street bustling with shops, galleries, restaurants, and biergartens, there are plenty of things to do when visiting Fredericksburg.

Head to  Old German Bakery & Restaurant  for a hearty breakfast, and make sure to get the German pancake. Book the  290 Wine Shuttle  for safe all-day transportation between the wineries. Visit  Enchanted Rock State Park , which is a big pink granite dome you can hike for amazing views.

Fort Worth is a destination both charmingly stuck in time and filled with new life. You'll still find remnants of a bygone era, like weekly rodeos, honky-tonks, and a working herd of hometown cattle. You can also find new museums, restaurants, watering holes, and a renovated entertainment hub, Mule Alley, in the National Historic District.

You'll find heritage-brand stores like  Lucchese Bootmaker  and  King Ranch Saddle Shop  for shopping. Grab a bottled cocktail in a souvenir flask from Second Rodeo Brewing , with ample indoor-outdoor seating. Finally, watch the twice-daily cattle drive down the main street near Cowtown Coliseum.

Port Aransas

This old-school fishing village has long been a nostalgic vacation spot for generations of Texas families. Head across the car ferry to Mustang Island—the flat, narrow barrier island where you'll find the town of Port Aransas. Fishing charters remain a draw for tourists on the Texas coast, but you can also enjoy calmer activities like bird-watching, laying on the beach, and eating all the fresh seafood.

For recreational boating,  The Scarlet Lady Dolphin Adventure  and  Dolphin Docks Deep Sea Fishing  run scenic cruises that showcase the area's friendly seafaring mammals, which can be seen swimming all around the island. Book a nighttime GlowRow tour, which sets out after dark and offers a unique view of sea life through clear kayaks lined with neon LED lights.

New Braunfels

New Braunfels is a historic town at the confluence of the Comal and Guadalupe rivers in the Texas Hill Country, situated between Austin and San Antonio. You're able to grab a tube and float down the rivers at leisure, making this town perfect for spring and summer visits. You'll also find the Gruene Historic District, which is home to the oldest dance hall in Texas, Gruene Hall.

There’s live music every night at Gruene Hall , so grab a pair of cowboy boots and hit the dance floor. Grab dinner at  The Gristmill Restaurant (get the chicken-friend steak!) perched under Gruene’s iconic water tower in the 19th-century cotton gin ruins, or sample a wine tasting flight at  The Grapevine , where Texas wines make up most selections. 

For those wanting a real Texas adventure, head out west to Terlingua and nearby parks, Big Bend Ranch State Park and Big Bend National Park. Known as a ghost town (resulting from an abandoned mining company) that turned into a remote tourist enclave, this town has just enough funk. Plus, you'll find plenty of glamping sites to stay while you're there.

Stay at the charming  La Posada Milagro Guesthouse , and walk over to  Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon , an all-in-one eatery, live-music venue, and community hub that has been a gathering spot for decades. Set out exploring with equipment or a guide from  Big Bend Boating and Hiking .

San Antonio

Mariah Tyler

This cultural hub is a fabulous escape for exploring the River Walk and eating your way through authentic Tex-Mex. Historic Market Square  and  The Alamo are the heart of River Walk tourism, and for good reason. Fiesta, the city's annual springtime festival, is typically centered there every April. The extravaganza lasts over a week and is—at its core—a celebration of culture in the loudest, brightest, and most exuberant sense. 

Grab a sweet treat at Mi Tierra Café y Panadería , an 80-year-old family bakery and restaurant that's known for offering over a dozen different kinds of pan dulce, a traditional Mexican sweet bread. The Pearl's Bottling Department , San Antonio's first food hall, has dining options that run the gamut, and you can stay at the accompanying Hotel Emma , built inside the old brewhouse.

John Davidson

Boerne (pronounced BUR-nee) sits in the Texas Hill Country and is a top pick for those searching for nostalgic joys: a root beer float from an old-school sweet shop, a welcoming smile on its colorful Main Street, or a spontaneous dunk into the Guadalupe River. Most of the big action in Boerne is centered on a lively downtown district known as the Hill Country Mile, which consists of the Main Street drag lined with dozens of antique shops and specialty stores. 

Visit The Dienger Trading Co. , which is housed in a 137-year-old grocery store building and is a multipronged shop with a bistro, bakery, and boutique all under one roof. Book one of the 34 rooms at  The Kendall , a boutique hotel in a restored circa-1859 stagecoach stop, to be within walking distance of everything on Main Street. 

This North Texas town is known for being a destination for wine lovers who like to explore the in-town tasting rooms and vineyards outside of town, but also as the ultimate Christmas small town. In fact, the state senate issued a proclamation more than a decade ago declaring this town the  Christmas Capital of Texas . Shop around the quaint downtown for gifts to take home.

Board the  Grapevine Vintage Railroad's Wine Train  to explore vineyards outside of town. Shops not to be missed are gourmet confectionery  Dr. Sue's Chocolate ,  Hole in the Wall  gift shop, and  Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Fine Art Gallery . Gather at  Hop & Sting Brewing Co.   for craft brews made with Texas-grown ingredients.

You'll find this town fitting for its name, as it's hidden quite deeply in Texas Hill Country. Remarkably, many Texans have never been to this rural area or even heard about the two state parks nestled covertly into the wild landscape. Utopia is located smack-dab in the middle of both Lost Maples State Natural Area and Garner State Park , which are family-friendly parks for camping and fall color.

In the remote area, find sustenance and a unique stay at Saturday-only restaurant The Laurel Tree and Treehouse Utopia . All four accommodations are built into centuries-old bald cypress trees.

The Texas state capital city has become known for its relaxed, laid-back vibe and vibrant live music scene, which are both easy to come by on a weekend trip. The best times of year to visit are spring and fall, when mild weather helps make the most of the many outdoor activities and venues. You can even take day trips over to nearby small towns Driftwood, Dripping Springs, and Wimberley to get your fill of Texas landscape and culture.

Stop by  The White Horse  in East Austin for free two-step dance lessons, or visit legendary spot  Broken Spoke  for lessons and live music. Take in the downtown skyline as you bike or run along  Lady Bird Lake  on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Finally, enjoy classic Tex-Mex at Matt's El Rancho Tex-Mex , taco truck  Discada , and  La Barbecue  for Texas brisket.

ROBBIE CAPONETTO

Out in  West Texas , Marfa sits like the most unexpected town you could imagine. The nearest commercial airports are both three-hour drives away in El Paso and Midland. Since the 1970s, the town has become an unlikely hub attracting curious Texans, artistic bohemians, and incognito celebrities, who continue to flock here throughout the year for its art, film, and music festivals. 

Well-frequented stays are the modern motor court  Thunderbird Hotel , the newly renovated  Hotel Saint George , and the historic 1930s-era  Hotel Paisano , which served as the de facto headquarters during the filming of the 1956 classic  Giant , starring James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor. Find unique trinkets and gifts at  Garza Marfa , a colorful textile boutique;  Marfa Brand Soap , an ecofriendly bath store; and  Raba Marfa , a curated vintage trove. Grab a table at  Cochineal , a fine-dining restaurant by chef Alexandra Gates.

It's easy to get distracted by the thrice-yearly antiques fair extravaganza in Round Top, where you can score all sorts of unexpected goodies, but this town has much more to it than just shopping. Visit Royers Round Top Café , a family-run institution since 1987, for a slice of their famed pies. Book a room at Hotel Lulu  in the heart of town, which is comprised of six restored historic bungalows (which together hold 14 guest rooms), along with an on-site restaurant and bar, a formal garden and herb garden, and pool. 

Gabriela Herman

Dallas is one of those quintessential must-see  Southern cities  where you feel equally comfortable in both cowboy boots and stilettos. Thanks to having a little bit of everything for everyone, Dallas is ideal for both family trips and friend getaways, whether you want to take advantage of the city's many sports teams, museums, or shopping districts.

No matter the time of year, make sure to tour the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden , a 66-acre showplace that you'll find it blooming in the spring with thousands of flowers and overflowing in the fall with pumpkin displays. In the Dallas Arts District, you'll find  Dallas Museum of Art  plus a dozen major performance venues. 

Galveston is a charming year-round  beach town getaway , offering a variety of oceanside attractions like the iconic amusement park "Pleasure Pier" and 32 miles of pristine white sand beaches. Close to these oceanside perks, visitors can explore museums and preserved Victorian houses, some of which have ghost tours and other historical attractions.

Head to the Pleasure Pier , situated along the iconic Galveston Seawall, to take advantage of a nostalgic amusement park, restaurants, and shopping that pays tribute to the original Pleasure Pier, which was destroyed by Hurricane Carla in 1961. Top off any day with a "Famous Fried" basket at Gaido's , a seafood joint that recently celebrated its 112th anniversary.

Getty Images/Scott Sanford

Forty-five minutes southwest of Austin, you’ll find the small town of Wimberley, Texas. Situated where Cypress Creek and the Blanco River meet, amidst rolling hills and sprawling countryside, Wimberley has plenty to offer those taking a trip to  Hill Country . 

Head to Wimberley Glassworks , which has been open since 1992, to see a colorful glass-blowing demonstration. Shop around the town square to goodies to take home, and stay at one of the charming outdoorsy spots available, including The Yurtopian and Collective Hill Country .

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History, Nature and Culture Abound in South-Central Texas

San Antonio’s geographic location in south-central Texas provides easy access to rolling hills, pristine streams, tranquil lakes and the multifaceted Texas coast. No matter which direction you choose to drive, you’re not far from adventure. 

Fredericksburg

When German pioneers settled the area in the mid-1800s, many of them built small “Sunday houses” in town in addition to their primary residences on nearby farms. Since traveling by horse-and-buggy was slow and arduous, it was a hassle to ride into town and back just to attend church on Sundays. These smaller houses allowed them to make a weekend of it. They’d arrive in town on Saturday, run a few errands, stay overnight, and then head back to the farm after church. Many of these Sunday houses have been turned into lodging, and have played a key role in Fredericksburg becoming such a popular weekend destination. Amid these historic bed-and-breakfasts, you’ll also find trendy restaurants, wine bars, music venues, and theaters. About 20 miles north of Fredericksburg, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a great spot for a morning hike. Climbing the dome-shaped hunk of pink granite is only mildly strenuous, and you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the Texas Hill Country. 

New Braunfels

Another town with a strong German heritage, New Braunfels is best known as the home of the Schlitterbahn Waterpark . Many of the park’s rides are fueled by cool, all-natural river water that is pumped right back into the river after flowing through the park. The park includes slow-moving waterways for tubing as well as opportunities for high adventure, such as the Boogie Bahn surfing ride. For a mellower experience, head to the nearby Gruene Historic District and shop for antiques, souvenirs, and handcrafted gifts. When you’re ready for lunch, you’ll be within walking distance of the Gristmill Restaurant . The rustic building is perched on the banks of the Guadalupe River and features several levels of seating overlooking the beautiful scenery. If you plan to stick around into the evening, you can catch both local and high-profile country music acts at Gruene Hall . A few miles west of New Braunfels, Natural Bridge Caverns is an excellent low-key adventure on a hot day. It’s always about 70 degrees underground. 

Water recreation is also a key attraction in San Marcos, but the emphasis here is on the rivers themselves instead of waterparks. Several outfitters in and around the town offer two- to four-hour tubing excursions. Most have shuttle buses to pick you up and drop you off along the river. The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment (formerly known as Aquarena Springs) has glass-bottomed boats that cruise though the pristine Spring Lake. Expert guides will explain the plant life, turtles, fish and other flora and fauna that make up this delicate ecosystem. Bargain shoppers will enjoy the area’s two major outlet malls: San Marcos Premium Outlets and Tanger Outlets . In the evenings, you can sit back with a beer and enjoy live music from local and regional bands at Cheatham Street Warehouse . 

Corpus Christi

About two hours south of San Antonio, Corpus Christi has beaches in addition to many of the other amenities you might expect from a mid-sized city. The Texas State Aquarium has massive indoor and outdoor tanks that feature a huge variety of species, including, sharks, tarpon and stingrays. It also focuses many of its exhibits on species and habitats from the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, which lies off the coast of southern Mexico and Central America. In the Stingray Lagoon, kids can even touch the stingrays. For a dose of military history, head to the USS Lexington , a massive aircraft carrier docked within walking distance of the aquarium. It has a flight simulator, nautical artifacts and even an on-board restaurant. When you’re ready for a swim, Malaquite Beach features a visitor center and miles of unspoiled beaches. Even though Hurricane Harvey hit the region in August 2017, Corpus Christi dodged the worst of the storm. Nearby cities Port Aransas and Rockport were more heavily damaged and are still in the process of rebuilding.

Garner State Park

The most popular state park in Texas, Garner has been a favorite summer destination for some families for generations. Situated on the Frio River, the park has excellent swimming, biking, kayaking and fishing opportunities. Featuring higher hills and deeper, more dramatic canyons than the rest of the Hill Country, Garner State Park is a photographer’s dream. Though they can be difficult to spot, the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo often nest in heavily wooded areas. There’s also a tubing outfitter on-site as well as a putt-putt golf course. If you stay into the evening during the summer, you can experience the park’s most cherished tradition: a nightly dance for all ages at the central pavilion. A short drive from the park, Frio Bat Flight offers an amazing bat-viewing opportunity. At sunset, about ten million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from Frio Cave. As the bats fly out in search of bugs to eat, red-tailed hawks and peregrine falcons swoop in and try to pick off a few bats to eat. It may be a little too brutal for young kids, but adult nature buffs will enjoy this fast-moving natural spectacle.

For two weeks in May and June every year, the Kerrville Folk Festival attracts world-class songwriters and some of the most loyal fans imaginable. The regular attendees refer to themselves affectionately as “Kerrverts,” and some of them arrive on the festival grounds days before the festival to set up their own little villages within the campground. After the on-stage performances every night, professional and amateur musicians alike sing around campfires, often until dawn. The rest of the year, Kerrville is a sleepy town with plenty of antique shops, locally owned restaurants, and a few art galleries. The Museum of Western Art exhibits a wide array of paintings and sculptures depicting cowboys, ranching and frontier life. Beautifully situated on a hilltop, Kerrville Hills Winery offers daily tastings and winery tours.

If you’re looking for a small-town getaway near San Antonio that’s not overrun by tourists in summer, Wimberley is always a good option. The “downtown” area is so small you can explore all of it in about 30 minutes. If you have kids in tow, make sure and stop at the Emily Ann Theatre & Gardens . The community theater presents plays for both kids and adults, ranging from "Princess and the Pea" to "Pride and Prejudice." Even when there’s not a performance going on, the 12-acre property offers plenty of adventure for the little ones. Wayne’s Meadow is home to ten kid-friendly gardens, including a life-size chess set and a butterfly garden. For an all-natural and refreshing swimming experience, Blue Hole is a nearby spring-fed swimming hole complete with a rope swing. Bring a picnic lunch, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the lush grass along the banks of the creek. Open only during summer, Jacob's Well is another one-of-a-kind swimming hole in Wimberley, and it's part of an extensive cave system connected to the Edwards Aquifer. The cool water bubbles up from underground to create this all-natural swimming spot. You can work up a sweat before your swim on the park's extensive network of nature trails.

The Cibolo Nature Center in Boerne (pronounced Bernie ) is an ideal spot for a brisk morning hike. Several miles of nature trails wind through a variety of landscapes, including meadows, dense woods, and rolling hills. The half-mile Marshland Trail is an easy walk along a boardwalk that offers abundant opportunities to see wildlife in the sky and water. You’ll see turtles, ducks and maybe even a stunning kingfisher diving for its prey. Despite its lackluster moniker, the Cave Without a Name is one of the most gorgeous natural features in Texas. The rippled walls and ceiling almost seem to be in motion. Concerts are sometimes held in the cave, which offers remarkable acoustics. To combine an afternoon snack with a little shopping, check out Carousel Antiques & Fickle Pickles . While these are pricey pickles, regular customers swear by these tart treats. Some have a little extra zing, with flavors ranging from garlic to jalapeno. The selection of antiques is fairly small, but it adds an interesting twist to your pickle shopping. 

For a rousing start to your day in Helotes, head to Helotes Hill Country Ziplines . The nine lines range in height from 100 feet to a stomach-turning 1,000 feet. On the fastest ones, you’ll be soaring up to 35 mph. After such an exhilarating experience, you may need a glass of wine. Helotes Creek Winery is a charming little winemaker located along a narrow country road. You won’t find any snootiness here—just tasty reds, whites, cheese plates and the occasional cranapple wine slushie. The winery even has a ladies’ night on Wednesdays. For your evening entertainment, Floore’s Country Store is a one-of-a-kind music venue housed in an old dance hall. The name seems to imply that it used to be a store, but it’s been a dance hall and honky-tonk since it opened in 1942. The name is simply another example of Texas eccentricity at its finest. Willie Nelson once played here regularly and still stops by every now and then. The music schedule mostly consists of up-and-coming country singers with a few national acts sprinkled in. 

Johnson City

The childhood home of President Lyndon Baines Johnson, Johnson City is also one of the most beautiful small towns in Texas. It’s situated amid rolling hills and verdant pastures dotted with sprawling old oak trees. Free tours of LBJ’s boyhood home start every half hour on the house’s front porch. Look up and you’ll see that the ceiling of the front porch is painted sky blue. This was done often in early Texas houses because it was believed that wasps wouldn’t build nests on a blue ceiling because, well, it looked like the sky. In March 1937, it was on this very porch that Lyndon Baines Johnson announced his first run for Congress. The modest home was restored and furnished to be historically accurate for the mid-1920s period.

The LBJ Ranch is just a few miles down the road. You can now get a driving permit and tour parts of the ranch without supervision; However, an expert guide will help you appreciate the ranch’s role in history. Make sure you stop and check out LBJ’s famous floating car. LBJ used to toy with reporters by touring the ranch in the car and then—without warning—driving the car directly into a lake. No matter what you think of his policies, LBJ was undoubtedly one of the nation’s most interesting presidents.

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Where to See the Bluebonnets Bloom in Texas

The Most Beautiful Natural Features in Texas

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San Antonio Outdoor Recreational Activities

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Where to Go in 2021: 10 Future Trips You Can Start Planning Now

10 Best Things to Do During Winter in Texas

20 Fun and Easy Day Trips From Austin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Day Trips from Austin

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

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

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

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

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

Read Next: 40+ Free Things To Do In Austin

Things to do in Wimberley, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pedernales Falls State Park

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

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

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

Canyon Lake

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

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

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

Things to do in Canyon Lake, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Gruene

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

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

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

New Braunfels

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

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

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

Things to do in New Braunfels, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Salado, TX

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

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

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

McKinney Falls State Park

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

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

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

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

Johnson City

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Johnson City, TX

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Driftwood, TX

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

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

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

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

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

Colorado Bend State Park

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

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

If you want to feel like you have truly been transported out of Texas on your Austin day trip, then hit the hiking trails to Gormon Falls.  This 3-mile round trip hike is over rocky terrain and can get really hot in the summer, but the reward when you reach the falls is well worth it.  You will think you are standing in front of a waterfall in the tropics!

You can also go on a caving adventure while in Colorado Bend State Park.  For this outing, a guide will lead you through the caves that are in this area.  This is a fun experience for the adventurous at heart!

Colorado Bend State Park consistently tops our list of the best Austin day trips!

Fredericksburg

The charming German town of Fredericksburg is one of the favorite and best day trips from Austin, TX.  While there are truly so many  things to do in Fredericksburg, TX , it is most popular for its WINE !!

With new wineries popping up daily (it feels like at least), it is hard to keep track of all of the  Fredericksburg, TX wineries !  Don’t worry though, if you aren’t into wine, Fredericksburg also offers a great historic district, fun shopping, and yummy restaurants, making it an easy day trip for everyone!

Things to do in Fredericksburg, TX

Visit the many wineries during your day trip to Fredericksburg, TX.  Just drive down Highway 290 and take your pick, they are everywhere.  Some of our favorites include Becker Vineyards, Grape Creek Vineyards, Fat Ass Ranch, and Fiesta Winery.

Taste all things peach.  Fredericksburg is also famous for the peaches that are grown in this area.  Head to Das Peach House to sample some delicious delicacies created with these yummy peaches.

Learn some history and German heritage while here.  The Fredericksburg Pioneer Museum will allow you to see how the founders of this area lived.  This museum houses 11 historic buildings that guests can tour for a glimpse back in time.  Another great museum to visit is the Pacific War Museum.  Here you can learn all about the Pacific War and Admiral Nimitz, a leader in the battles of WWII, who was from Fredericksburg.

Check out the lavender fields at Becker Vineyards.

Go shopping .  There are so many great little boutique shops to visit in Fredericksburg.  You can spend the day not only exploring the shops on Main Street but also all around the town!

If you are looking for a cute little town to get away to, then why not consider a day trip from Austin to the “ Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas ”?  Well, Georgetown is the place just for that as that is exactly what they are known for.

Lined with cute shops and fun restaurants, the Georgetown Downtown Historic District might be just what you need to fill your day.  If shopping isn’t your thing, don’t worry, there are plenty of outdoor activities in this area as well.

Georgetown is one of the historic trips from Austin, Texas.

Things to do in Georgetown, TX

Spend the day exploring the historic downtown area during your day trip to Georgetown.  Shop at all of the great shops and grab some lunch at the restaurant of your choice.

Explore the Inner Space Caverns.

Cool off in one of the many swimming holes including Blue Hole Park and Lake Georgetown.

Luckenbach may be tiny, but it is definitely one of the most unique little towns in Texas, making it a must on your list of the best day trips from Austin.

Located just outside of Fredericksburg, Luckenbach is a true Texas legend of a town.  Seriously, there is even a Waylon Jennings song written about it!  Here you can grab a cold drink, attend a music concert, and just enjoy a little piece of true Texas history.

Luckenbach is one of the unique Austin, Texas day trips and a great place to check out some live music!

Looking for a day trip from Austin that is all about food? Considered the barbeque capital of Texas , Lockhart will not disappoint if you are looking for some great smoked meat to sink your teeth into!  Sitting between Austin and San Antonio, this small town is big on hospitality.

Here visitors can enjoy some incredible Texas BBQ, take in a little history, and enjoy some quirky fun while visiting.

Things to do in Lockhart, TX

Sink your teeth into some great barbecue.  Of course, there are several places in town to do this, but if this is your first visit to Lockhart, then you have to eat at Kreuz Market.  Kreuz Market has been serving up authentic Texas barbeque since 1900!

Explore some of the unique stores during your day trip to Lockhart.  One particular to note is Manny Gammage’s Texas Hatters. Manny Gammage has been creating hats for celebrities and politicians for years!  I mean they made a hat for Willie Nelson and Ronald Regan, that alone is reason to visit!

Visit Lockhart State Park .  Lockhart State Park is unique in the fact that it has a 9-hole golf course on site.  You can also enjoy picnic areas, hiking, fishing, and swimming on this Austin day trip.

San Antonio

Ok, this day trip isn’t necessarily an escape from the “big city” as San Antonio is a big city also, but it still makes for a great day trip from Austin!

San Antonio is truly unlike any other city in Texas.  Combine the awesome River Walk with the history and charm of all  San Antonio’s Missions  and you have the makings for a great outing. Honestly, there are so many  free things to do in San Antonio  that you could make several day trips here and never spend a dime!

Things to do in San Antonio, TX

Tour the San Antonio Mission Trail and see all of the great missions that helped to build this area of Texas during your San Antonio day trip.  Of course, The Alamo is the most famous, but there are so many other missions in this area that are worth exploring also.

People watch on the San Antonio River Walk.  The River Walk is great for so many reasons (especially the River Walk at Christmas ).  I mean, it is such a cool environment lined with great restaurants and fun shops.  One of our favorite things to do is to grab a balcony seat at one of the many restaurants on the River Walk and watch the people go by below!

Eat some Mexican food!  We love so many restaurants in San Antonio, but one that we visit EVERY time is Nichas.  Located across the street from Mission San Jose, Nichas is authentic Mexican food that is well worth your time.  I recommend the puffy tacos and/or the cheese enchiladas served with their amazing house gravy!

Do some s hopping in Market Square or the Pearl Brewery district before visiting one of the many museums in San Antonio during your Austin, TX day trip!

If you love to be out in nature, then Boerne is a great day trip from Austin for you.  Located just outside of San Antonio, Boerne is a fun little town for those looking to escape city life (even if only for a little while).

There is a little something for everyone when it comes to things to do in Boerne.  You can enjoy shopping, restaurants, live music, nature trails, and caves when you visit this small Texas town!

Things to do in Boerne, TX

Shop on the Hill Country Mile, Boerne’s Main Street.  Here you will find eclectic art galleries, boutique shops, and quaint cafes just waiting to welcome you.

Visit the Cibolo Nature Center while on your day trip to Boerne.  This natural area has picnic areas and trails for you to enjoy and explore.

Enjoy one of the many wineries or breweries in this area. Visit the Cave Without a Name or Cascade Caverns.

Enchanted Rock State Park

Located by Fredericksburg, TX, Enchanted Rock State Park is a great day trip from Austin if you enjoy hiking.

Enchanted Rock is a giant granite dome rock that welcomes hikers to come and explore year-round.  Hiking isn’t the only thing to do at Enchanted Rock though. 

Visitors are welcome to camp, picnic, geocache, and stargaze at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.  It is important that you need to make reservations as Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is very popular and fills up fast!

Guadalupe River State Park

Another popular state park that is on our list of day trips is Guadalupe River State Park.  Guadalupe River State Park is most popular for people who want to spend the day tubing or swimming, but there are many other things to do here also.

Visitors can enjoy the numerous hiking/biking trails, picnic facilities, geocache, and camp within the park.  Of course, the river is still the main draw.  While on the river you can fish, tube, canoe, and swim!

Marble Falls

If you mention Marble Falls while visiting Texas, most people will tell smile big and tell you about the pie shop in town!  And while it is true, the Bluebonnet Cafe is a huge draw for visitors, there are other things to do in Marble Falls as well.

This little Hill Country town offers fun boutique shops, some great galleries, wineries, and of course, the lake!

Things to do in Marble Falls, TX

• Head to the adult playground that is Hidden Falls Adventure Park while in Marble Falls.  This 2700 acre park is a mecca for ATVs, jeeps, and dirt bikes.  Oh, and not to worry if you don’t have one, they will rent you one!
• Eat pie (and whatever else, but definitely pie) at Blue Bonnet Cafe during your day trip to Marble Falls.
• Find a great swimming hole at the lake to cool off from the Texas heat.
• Check out the cute shops and art galleries around Marble Falls.
• If you are here in the spring, enjoy seeing the bluebonnets in Texas !

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Austin

Well, there you have it, our recommendations for great day trips from Austin.  Of course, this list isn’t all-inclusive, but hopefully, we have shown you that there are so many fabulous day trips in the Texas Hill Country. Hopefully, these day trip ideas have inspired you to get out and explore the fabulous small towns surrounding this area of The Lone Star State.

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Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight:

We love using CheapOAir, Kayak, and Kiwi to search for the best flight prices. We love using these search engines because they search the web for airlines worldwide to ensure you get the best deal! In addition to flights, you can also find great hotel prices on Kayak and Kiwi.

Book Your Vacation Package:

If you want to book an entire vacation package, we suggest using Expedia. We love how easy Expedia is to use, and we always find good deals on entire vacation packages on their site.

Another great site for vacation packages is BookVIP . BookVIP offers super cheap vacation packages to incredible destinations. You are sure to save money using their site!

For full guided vacations, including hotels, some meals, transportation, and guides, then we book with Trafalgar. Trafalgar is a trusted tour company that will meet all your needs while ensuring a great experience.

Trip.com allows you to book flights, hotels, train tickets, rental cars, airport transfers, tours, and more all on one site. Owned by the parent company that also owns Skyscanner, this is a trusted resource for travel booking and a great “one-stop shop.”

Book Your Accommodations:

We always begin our search by checking out honest reviews on TripAdvisor hotels. This allows us to narrow our search for specific properties once we are ready to book. Of course, you can also book directly on the TripAdvisor site!

There are several accommodation sites that we like to use. One of our favorites is Booking.com because it offers a wide variety of hotels and guesthouses at a good price.

Another “go-to” hotel booking site for us is Hotels.com . We love their loyalty program that allows you to earn free nights, and their “secret prices” for members are fabulous deals!

HotelsCombined is another cool site. They allow you to compare all the top travel sites with one search to ensure you find the best deal out there. Kayak works in this way as well.

If you want a luxurious all-inclusive vacation, consider checking out the Sandals/Beaches properties. Sandals properties are for couples only and Beaches are for families. We have visited Sandals in the past and absolutely love the attention to detail and the service they provide.

Tour Companies We Trust:

We love taking guided tours when visiting new places. Our go-to tour companies are Viator.com and Get Your Guide . Both of these companies have been in business for years and provide excellent customer service. You can trust booking tours from their sites for sure!

For a guided city tour, check out City Sightseeing and BigBus Tours . These bus tours are so much fun and easy to hop on and hop off at top attractions in cities around the world.

CityPass is a great way to save money when visiting large cities. CityPass allows you to get free admission to major attractions once you buy their pass. The savings add up quickly with this pass, often saving 50% with combined admissions.

Another great pass to save money in larger cities is the Sightseeing Pass . This pass allows you to save valuable time and money by combining admissions to major attractions. They also have a handy app that keeps everything you need at your fingertips.

Looking to Save Time and Money?

Check out our resource page for all of our favorite vendors. These companies help us to save time and money on our travels!

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About the Author

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

Sunday 6th of September 2020

Just moved to ATX and this was just what I was looking for!

thattexascouple

That's so awesome. I hope you enjoy living in Austin :)

Sunday 19th of July 2020

I love the Enchanted Rock and Fredericksburg area - but you've given me so many more places to check out next time I'm there! Thank you :)

Oh yay! That makes me so happy to hear!

I love Austin and also love finding hidden gems on day trips. Pinning for future reference!

Awesome! Thank you so much!

Saturday 18th of July 2020

I was supposed to come to Texas for the State Fair but sadly with everything going on that won't be possible. Already excited to make plans for next year though and this post is really helpful. Thanks!

I am so sorry to hear that. We love the State Fair. I hope that you get to come after all of this is over.

This is great!!! We aren’t too far in Louisiana and that would be great trips for our family! Thanks!

Oh yay! This would be so much fun for you guys!

10 Ultimate Day Trips from Dallas within a 2 hour drive

Posted on Last updated: March 19, 2024

Categories Travel , Family Fun

Best Day Trips from Dallas on less than a tank of gasoline

Despite the seemingly endless new things to do in our city, the desire to get out of town for Weekend trips is always popular and Day Trips from Dallas are ideal.

Drive somewhere within 2 hours for a Road Trip in Texas can be the perfect way to escape and explore more of the United States. Let us tell you all about our favorite places, like Waco, Glen Rose , the best lakes and beaches to try, Fort Worth and so many more.

More: Places to visit in Texas

Travel can be such a chore, so we’ve made it easier than ever to find your ideal RV, trailer, or camper van to get you out there, so you can start your next adventure.

Traveling should be affordable, accessible, and simple, so we’re going back to the basics.

And yes, there are some charming small towns, a few historical sites, and beautiful recreational parks outside of Plano and Dallas but yet perfect for a day trip in Texas. 

More: Choose from one of 45 Lakes and Beaches you can drive to from DFW

Want to go for day Trips from Dallas, within a 2-hour drive for day trips nearby which will give you the out-of-the-city adventure you’re seeking and you’ll be back home in time for dinner? Yes? Perfect.

Here are our Best 10 Day Trips from Dallas & Road Trips from North Texas

Check out these 32 Beautiful Texas State Parks and National Parks within driving distance too that you can also visit as one of your many Day Trips!

Glen Rose, Texas – 1 hour 45m drive

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center , a 1,800-acre ranch is home to over 1,000 animals from almost 50 different species.

It offers visitors a chance to see these exotic, threatened, and endangered animals in a free-range setting.

It also has the largest cheetah breeding facility in the world, they support the health and future of cheetahs in human care and in the wild.

You can get a membership plan, and if you have out-of-town visitors, take them here for one of a few Day Trips – it’s guaranteed that everyone, young and old will have a blast. There is also lodging available if you want to have an overnight. The price includes breakfast and a morning safari guided tour.

More: Here are 6 great spots to go on a visit to Glen Rose, Texas

Dinosaur Valley State Park

YES, it’s for real! Today, you can walk in dinosaur tracks in the bed of the Paluxy River.

There are other things to do here including going for a hike, picnicking, camping, swimming, fishing, riding your horse, bike, watching for wildlife and visiting the interpretive center.

Please be aware that the Dinosaur tracks are in the riverbed and are not always visible. Contact the park before arrival for current trail status and dinosaur track visibility.

Make this one of many day trips from Dallas for a full weekend , by heading down to Glen Rose, where you can enjoy the Dinosaur State Park and Fossil Rim and much more!

Paris, Texas – 1 hour 30m drive

Just an hour and a half away, you can get your “Parisian” adventure, Texas-style by visiting the town’s Eiffel Tower, a 65-foot-tall replica topped with a big red cowboy hat. Sorry, this is one time where “Everything is bigger in Texas” isn’t true.

This is a perfect day or road trip for friends and family . 

You can walk around Historic Downtown Paris and the town square where you see the Culbertson Fountain and take a tour of the historic Sam Bell Maxey House.

For outdoor enthusiasts, you can enjoy walking, jogging, or cycling at Trail de Paris, a beautiful family-friendly trail just within the city limit. Perfect to add to your list of Day Trips!

Lake Texoma – 1 hour 20m drive

Located between Texas and Oklahoma is Lake Texoma, where you can have a relaxing or an energy-pumping adventure.

You pick your experience, and Lake Texoma will give you what you want especially if you are a nature lover and want to escape on one of many day trips from Dallas.

On the Texas side of the lake, there is Eisenhower State Park , which makes it a great landing point for you and your crew.  If you want to stay in the State of Texas, this is a great option for a day trip in Texas.

This park has everything you need for a day trip from Dallas full of fun, for example, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and all the water sports that you can think of for a day trip.

And, don’t forget to check their Junior Ranger Program so your kids can complete a Junior Ranger Badge. 

We found some great places to stay at Lake Texoma too!

Fort Worth – About an hour from Dallas

There is a saying around these parts that goes like “This ain’t my first rodeo!” but many of us haven’t actually been to a rodeo !

A day trip to Fort Worth is a must for your street-cred when next you bring “out of towner visitors” here.

The historic Fort Worth Stockyards has earned Fort Worth, Texas its nickname, Cowtown, and if you come to Texas for a taste of the Old West, this is your perfect place! A visit to Billy Bob’s is a must if you go.

On your way West to Fort Worth, you could even fit in a tour at the AT&T stadium to see where the Dallas Cowboy’s play.

You may want to come back time and time again – be sure to add this to your list of Day Trips from Dallas.

We have some great ideas and offers for Tours and Experiences here and our favorite Museums

Read more: How to spend a Family Fun day in Fort Worth 

There are so many things to do in Fort Worth for the whole family but a favorite to mention is the Fort Worth Zoo – which has been named as a top zoo in the nation by Family Life magazine, the Los Angeles Times and USA Today.

You can get a 50% discount on the Pogo Pass membership which gets you admission free to the Zoo! 

Turner Falls in Davis , Oklahoma – 2 hour drive

Head North to Turner Falls Park, known for excellent hiking with beautiful scenery and as the home to Oklahoma’s largest waterfall.

It is open all year long, but in summer this is especially a great spot to cool off from hot summer days.

The park covers 1,500 acres (6.1 km2), which contains miles of trails, caves, and geological features. One of the great features you do not want to miss here is Collings Castle. And, there are campsites and cabin rentals available if you’re going to go for an overnight stay.

There are great campsites at Arbuckle Mountains which is very close by.

If you’re planning to visit this area, we recommend that you also go to the drive-thru safari at the Arbuckle Wilderness Park.

Waco, TX – 2 hour drive

Waco, Texas is the home of Dr. Pepper, and Baylor University, and Magnolia Market has a lot to offer for a day trip.

This small city has become a popular day-trip destination since Chip, and Joanna Gaines started appearing on HGTV’s Fixer Upper.

If you a fan of the show, then that would be one good reason to visit this place. However, there are a lot of other things to do other than visiting the Magnolia Market, and Magnolia Table.

There is the Dr. Pepper Museum, Texas Ranger Museum, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, and Cameron Park Zoo, to name a few.

It’s also a great place for a Weekend getaway and one of our favorite day trips from Dallas.

More: Here are 32 of the absolute best places to eat, shop and things to do in Waco, Texas!

Save Money!

We highly recommend you purchase a Pogo Pass for every family member (over the age of 2), to get free access to all 5 of these attractions in Waco! You can redeem your pass anytime over the course of a year. We have an affiliate (exclusive) link to get you 50% off your Annual Pass.

Tyler, TX – 1 hour 45m drive

Go East on one of your Day Trips From Dallas. The Rose Capital of America and home of the Annual Rose Festival because it has the nation’s most extensive municipal rose garden. Tyler Rose Garden is a 14-acre park filled with the beauty of hundreds of different varieties of roses.

It is worth visiting, and every October is a celebration of its beauty, the annual Rose Festival. 

You can also check out Tyler State Park, a beautiful park for you and your family to enjoy.

There are ample activities for the kids and adults to enjoy like swimming, boating, hiking, camping, etc. 

Jacksonville, TX – 2 hour drive

Jacksonville, Texas, was once known as the Tomato Capital of the World and the town still celebrates its tomato history with a Tomato Fest every second Saturday each June.

So many fun activities, including a tomato eating contest, tomato peeling contest, tomato packing contest, best homegrown tomato contest, salsa contest, etc.  All things tomato! 

Before you get into town, remember to stop by at Loves Lookout off Highway 69, you can take in the view of East Texas. With an elevation of 713 feet, it has long been known for its spectacular views to the east. It is also a perfect place for a picnic or to take a walk with the whole family.   

And, Jacksonville is where the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari & Wild Animal Park is located. 

You can see a beautiful variety of wildlife and exotic animal at your own pace from the comfort of your own vehicle.

These are our favorite 10 places that are easily reachable within 2 hours of DFW, perfect for a Day Trip.

We also love these great ideas and if you’d like to go a little further you can head to 45 Lakes and Beaches you can drive to from DFW

Kim, from My Traveling Roads also has some great ideas on short trips from DFW too!

What are yours?

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

Kim Croisant

Wednesday 15th of September 2021

Thank you for including my quick getaways from DFW in this wonderful post here. I love all the destinations listed here!!

Welcome to Day Trippin' Texas

Texas covers 267,339 square miles, or 7.4% of the nation’s total area. That means that we have a LOT of places to see. We have beaches and deserts, mountains and plains, historic forts and really old churches, and lots of whimsical roadside attractions.

So if you're looking for somewhere to go, something to do or some place new to see, we can help you find it.

Central Texas

Mission San Juan Capistrano in San Antonio

Originally founded in 1716 in eastern Texas, Mission San Juan Capistrano was transferred in 1731 to its present location. In 1756, the stone church...

The Twisted Sisters aka The Three Sisters

Join me on my Honda Valkyrie as we ride the Texas Hill Country to the The Twisted Sisters aka The Three Sisters.

Lake Pflugerville

Lake Pflugerville is a reservoir in Pflugerville, Texas in the United States. Construction of the 180-acre reservoir began in 2005 and was completed...

St. James Episcopal in La Grange

In 1885, St James Episcopal Church was built in La Grange on a lot donated by the Shropshire family for a parish formed in 1855.

Virginia Field Park, Calvert

Virginia Field Park, a gorgeous green space within the Historic District of Calvert, originated in 1868 as a donation for park space from the Houston...

Driftwood, seventeen miles northwest of San Marcos in central Hays County, grew up in the 1880s as a supply center for neighboring ranches and farms...

15 Texas Best Sunrises

The BEST Texas sunrises? Well, that's not exactly true because there are just so many more than 15 of them.

Passage into the Primeval: Caddo Lake

Caddo Lake is the largest Cypress Forest in the world.

Dallas Camera Club field trip sideshow from Caddo Lake. Awesome images!

Azalea Trail History in Tyler

A quick look at how the beautiful Azalea Trail event got started in Tyler.

East Texas Road Trip with Mary and Mac

I had to get out of the city, and discover a bit of East Texas...

Welcome to the City of Jefferson… "Riverport to the Southwest". Settle in for a journey through time when the living was easy and the era was golden.

Fulton is a town in Aransas County. As of the 2010 census, this South Texas coastal fishing community had a population of 1,358. The town is named...

Smith Oaks Rookery on High Island

Smith Oaks is 143 acres of field, woods, wetlands and ponds. Thirty-three acres were purchased by HAS wit the help of HAS members, friends, and the...

Berclair School

I’ve come across a couple dozen abandoned schoolhouses across central Texas, mostly by happenstance — for some reason, it seems that...

Port Isabel Lighthouse

The Point (Port) Isabel Lighthouse was built in 1852 to guide ships through the Brazos Santiago Pass to Port Isabel. Today the lighthouse is operated...

Matagorda Christ Episcopal Church

Matagorda Christ Episcopal Church, the oldest Episcopal Church in Texas, traces its history to 1838. The year the Rev. Caleb S. Ives was appointed...

Dickinson Bayou

Dickinson Bayou is located in southeast Texas in the San Jacinto-Brazos Coastal Basin. Dickinson Bayou rises two miles northeast of Alvin in...

North Texas

Woodmen’s Circle Home in Sherman

Woodmen Circle Home was an orphanage and a dormitory for widowed women.

Alvord is on U.S. Highway 287/81 ten miles northeast of Decatur in northeast Wise County. Settlement began there in the early 1880s. The community...

Abandoned St. John’s Catholic Church in Bomarton

This is the Milky Way over the abandoned St. John’s Catholic Church in Bomarton. Bomarton, on U.S. Highway 277 near the Knox county line in...

The Baker Hotel: “Ballad of the Baker”

The Baker Hotel is a long-shuttered hotel in Mineral Wells.

At least three explanations exist for this town's unusual name. The most popular is that the name commemorated an invasion of bugs that spoiled a...

Baker Hotel by Drone

An aerial tour of the exterior of the Baker Hotel in Mineral Wells.

Amarillo Sunset

Outside Amarillo in the middle of a field sits this abandoned homestead. Once someone's dream.

Sunset over the Panhandle Plains

Love this sky! If you look closely above the horizon on the right side, you’ll see a flock of birds — geese, maybe — and they trail...

Caprock Canyons in Quitaque

Caprock Canyons State Park in Quitaque is home to the Official Bison Herd of the State of Texas! “Imagine a place where marbled redrock canyons...

Abandoned Farmhouse in Mount Blanco

Mount Blanco is on the Caprock escarpment off Farm Road 193 fifty-five miles northeast of Lubbock in northern Crosby County. It was named for a...

The Giant Legs of Amarillo

Just off the highway heading south on I-27 out of Amarillo are two gigantic legs in athletic socks. You wouldn't know it, but they are the shattered...

South Texas

Spinach Capital of the World

Crystal City is in Zavala County. It was originally settled by American farmers and ranchers producing cattle and various crops. Crystal City was a...

The community is notable as the place where "Judge" Roy Bean, the "Law West of the Pecos", had his saloon and practiced a kind of law.

Judge Roy Bean Holds Court

The Friendliest Little Border Town in Texas

It's a wonderful time to visit Del Rio and its sister city in Mexico, where holiday bargains and natural beauty abound.

Lost Mine Trail, Big Bend

Legend of the Lost Mine Of the many romantic legends which abound through the West, few match the Lost Mine story from which the peak takes its name...

Marfa is a city in the high desert of the Trans-Pecos in far West Texas, located between the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park. It is the...

Franklin Mountains

Franklin Mountains in El Paso looking Northwest from Hondo Pass and Eclipse St.

Fort Davis National Park

Established in 1854, Fort Davis was important in guarding and establishing America’s western frontier. Troops stationed at this historic military...

The Rim at Chilicote Ranch

View looking Southwest from The Rim at Chilicote Ranch. Somewhere in the valley below runs the Rio Grande, separating Texas in the foreground from...

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

The world's largest coral reef.

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10 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Texas

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

During summer, most people take vacations to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Unfortunately, not everyone is able to take off a full week from their job, or even two weeks, so we’ve compiled a list of 10 day trips near me that can be experienced in a single day, or even a weekend. They’re also some of the best day trips in Texas.

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Have you been lucky enough to take any of these 10 Texas day trips? If so, please share your experience(s) with us in the comments below. Also, share with us one of your favorite day trip destinations.

For a list of unique day trips near me in Texas, be sure to take a look at the following article: These 14 Unique Day Trips In Texas Belong On Your State Bucket List .

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

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More to Explore

Best day trips in texas.

What's a unique thing everyone should do in Texas?

There are many unique things to do around Texas, one of which is visiting the Congress Avenue Bridge in downtown Austin, which spans Lady Bird Lake. What makes this bridge so incredibly unique is the fact that it's home to approximately 1.5 million Brazilian free-tail bats, making it one of North America's largest urban bat colonies. From mid-March to November, these bats emerge from underneath the bridge at dusk to go look for food. Over the years, this has become one of Texas' most unusual, yet unique, tourist attractions. People from near and far come to see these bats. Visit this website to learn more.

What's one of the best getaway spots in Texas?

Have you ever asked yourself "Where are the best weekend getaway spots near me?" If so, wonder no more. There are several places in Texas that are great getaway spots whenever you're wanting to escape the busyness of everyday life, including Miraval Austin Resort & Spa. Miraval Austin Resort & Spa is a highly-rated resort that offers a variety of amenities and overlooks beautiful Lake Travis. It's also been voted the "Best Spa Resort in North America." To learn more about Miraval Austin Resort & Spa, be sure to take a look at their website .

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Explore Texas

The 22 Best Day Trips From Dallas for Every Style of Adventure

Day trips from Dallas include historic villages, quirky roadside exhibits, and beautiful natural wonders! Find your next escape on our list.

Dallas is one of the Lone Star State’s greats. It is a popular location for tourists and given the great food scene and world-class museums, but it is also well situated for some awesome side excursions. Day trips from Dallas include historic villages, quirky roadside exhibits, and beautiful natural wonders!

Texas is a big state, so to get anywhere you have to drive a little, but for the purpose of this guide, we have tried to keep our recommendations to less than 2 hours, 3 hours max! But, that still leaves a huge array of activities to choose from. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, something active, or a historical learning trip, we have an adventure for you on the list. Let’s get to it!

Learn about the Lone Star State !

Let’s Roam offers several scavenger hunts in Dallas and its surrounding towns. For starters, let us take you on an art hunt in the Big D ! You’ll see sculptures and award-winning architecture, as you explore the cultural district with a series of trivia questions and photo challenges. Discover the area in a fun and unique way!

Day Trips From Dallas, Texas

The distances listed in this article are based on Google Maps driving estimates at the time of writing. Travel times may vary depending on traffics and the day and time you choose to travel.

1. Shopping and Surfing in Waco

Distance: 98 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 40 mins

For the avid DIYer, there is no better day trip from Dallas than Waco. Waco is a charming city that has become a famous shopping location in the last decade because of HGTV’s Fixer Upper sensations Chip and Joanna Gaines. Their Magnolia Market is not only a solid place to get the modern farmhouse decor you crave, but it is has become a bucket list travel destination in its own right. The complex covers an entire 2-block radius and consists of two iconic silos from the 1950s. Whether you can afford anything at Magnolia Market might be debatable, but it is fun to peruse anyway.

Fixer Upper elevated Waco’s public persona, but it has always been a Mecca for vintage and antique shopping. Bring an empty vehicle, as you are sure to stock up on treasure in Waco. 

Waco is not only the home of Chip and JoJo. It’s also the home of the sweetest elixir on all the earth … the mighty Dr. Pepper. The Dr. Pepper Museum is located in the Artesian Manufacturing and Bottling Co. building where Dr. Pepper was manufactured in its early years. The factory was used from 1906-1960. The museum houses exhibits on the manufacturing process, vintage memorabilia, and a collection of former advertising campaigns from Dr. Pepper’s long history. 

Waco also has a really unexpected adventure complex for extreme watersports lovers. BSR Cable Park has a wave-generator pool capable of producing Hawaii-sized waves for landlocked surfers. They also have a full cable park offering all manner of high-flying, water adventures. For the less crazy, there is also a waterslide and lazy river. 

2. Beavers Bend State Park

​Distance: 180 miles

Travel Time: 3 hours

Beavers Bend State Park is located in Southeast Oklahoma, near the city of Broken Bow. Beaver’s Bend is a really long day trip, but sometimes you just need a quiet day in the woods! The park will give you plenty of room to stretch your legs after the long drive. The park offers ample options of cabins and resort rooms to stay in. Miles of trails traversing waterfalls and lakefronts are available, and watersports abound. 

Not only can you canoe or river raft on the Red River, but The Mountain Fork River also runs through the area, as well as the Broken Bow Lake. Swimming and watersports are popular on the lake, and Mountain Fork River is a great place for trout fishing. Just remember you need an Oklahoma fishing license and trout stamp. If you are looking for a more relaxing day, find a sandy beach around the lake and just enjoy the view. For an even better trip, make it a full weekend, and book yourself a cute cabin for a night or two!

​3. Safari in the “Wilderness”

Distance: 129 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 55 mins

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is a great day trip for families. The drive-thru safari is located in Davis, Oklahoma, and features llamas, giraffes, emus, zebras, and rhino up close and personal. Warning, the roads in the park are gravel and can be a bit rough. You will traverse over 200 acres of land, so you might want to bring a truck or SUV if you have one. Special feeding programs allow you to get face to face with a few of the exotic creatures, which of course, the kiddos love! The park is open year-round and is surrounded by the beauty of the Arbuckle Mountains.

The Turner Falls Park is only a few minutes away and makes for a nice pairing!

4. Take A Train Ride

Distance: 116 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 50 mins

The portion of the Texas State Railroad, stretching from Palestine to Rush, is about 25 miles, and the ride is so fun. The freight train is from the 1800s and departs from the vintage Palestine depot. Take a few minutes to review the historical information in the depot, both at Palestine and the ending destination of Rusk. The depots have interesting storyboards and great gift shops where you can score some period-specific souvenirs. 

The ride duration is 4 hours roundtrip. It chugs along through the Piney Woods and offers beautiful views all along the way. The train offers several classes of carriages from open-air bench seating to full-dining. The full package even offers a visit to the conductor’s cab. The daily rides depart at 11, but the company offers frequent special events and even some evening rides. A ride on the Texas State Railroad is both fun and nostalgic. It’s the perfect day trip from Dallas for train enthusiasts, little boys, and history buffs. You’re gonna love it!

5. Fort Richardson State Historical Park

Distance: 92 miles

Fort Richardson is one of the best day trips for history lovers. Built in 1867, on the eastern shores of Lost Creek, Fort Richardson was built for the unseemly task of subduing Native American Tribes of the Plains and keeping them in reservations north of the Red River. Not cool. The US army was responsible for settling north Texas and expanding the territory, keeping it out of the hands of Native tribes. The fort saw several skirmishes between the US army and frustration Native forces. The most expansive battle, the Battle of Palo Duro, took play in 1874

Today, the complex consists of more than 50 original structures, lovingly restored. Tours allow you to visit the morgue, officer’s quarters, bakery, magazine, and hospital, just to name a few. Guided tours are available, usually twice a day. 

Once you get your fill of sad history, head out to explore the land the way the Natives did on the hiking trails and wooded paths of Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway. 

6. Check Out The Culture Capital of East Texas

​Distance: 151 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 20 mins

Okay. Okay, so it is the self-proclaimed culture capital, but no bother, Marshall is great anyway. This small town is full of Texas charm. Marshal was a major hub of transportation throughout the 1800s. It now is home to the Texas and Pacific Railway Museum. The collection is located inside the Marshall Depot, next to the active Amtrak tunnel. It’s full of artifacts depicting the importance of the railroad and in particular the Marshall Depot over the course of its history, including its role in both WWI and WWII. 

A few other cultural sites to see in Marshal include the Harrison County Historical Museum inside the lovely courthouse. It sits in the middle of town, you can’t really miss it. Also, stop by the Michelson Museum of Art. This little art museum has a surprisingly impressive array of paintings, drawings, and lithographs.

From late November to January, Marshall comes alive with The Wonderland of Lights. This festival is strangely one of the biggest lights events in the USA! It’s really a heartwarming story. In 1897, Marshall was in the throws of the worse economic depression it had ever seen, and spirits were low. Newspaper editor George S. Smith had an idea. He envisioned that town square, beautiful courthouse, and every business strung with tiny lights and how magical it would be. A former resident of France somehow got their hands on the article, and they sent a $25,000 check to Smith with the message to make it happen. The festival has now grown to include a train ride, vintage carousel, ice skating rink, and a replica of Santa’s Village. While Marshal is always lovely, Christmas is definitely the best time to visit!

7. Lake Texoma

​Distance: 83 miles

Less than a 2-hour drive north of Dallas, Lake Texoma is a manmade reservoir, one of the largest in the United States, resulting from the Red River Dam. It sits on the border of Oklahoma and Texas, hence the name, and is populated with an endless array of campsites, golf courses, and resorts. 

The area has everything you would imagine in a lake resort. Canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and even scuba diving. It is a very popular place to fish for Striper, as the water has a high salt content. The area has many boutiques, spas, and restaurants to enjoy once you have had your fill of the water. Hikers enjoy the nearby Cross Timbers Tail, a 15-mile jaunt from Juniper Point Recreation Center that tracks along the coast of Lake Texoma. It’s rated moderate and offers a nice change from the busy shores and shops. While you could enjoy yourself for a day, consider booking a site and making it a weekend trip!

8. Arlington, Texas

Distance: 21 miles

Travel Time: 25 minutes

Arlington is a quick trip just west of Dallas proper and makes for a great day trip for sports lovers! Arlington is part of the larger Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, lying right between the two cities. It is home to both the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers. If you know anything about Texas, then you probably know that football is king! So, seeing a Dallas Cowboys’ game at the impeccable AT&T Stadium is a highlight for any sports lover. The venue also holds mega concerts when football season is not running. 

Spend a day hiking or biking in River Legacy Park, 1,300 acres of dense hardwood forest along the Trinity River. Visit Arlington Highlands for some upscale shopping, and spend the evening in Lincoln Square, Arlington’s center of nightlife and entertainment. 

Arlington is also home to Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor Waterpark , so it’s also a great place for a day trip with the family. 

9 Hico, Texas

​Distance: 111 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 45 mins

Hico is a cute little town southwest of Dallas that provides a relaxing day trip. The historic downtown is littered with boutiques, and there are beautiful biking trails along the Bosque River. It’s a relaxing place to escape the city and have a quiet day of shopping and romantic dinner. 

Hico also has some fun recreational sites and interesting historical sites. The Billy The Kid Museum is one of those interesting tidbits. For those that know the official story, you may wonder why Hico has a Billy the Kid museum. He was born in New York and died in a shootout with a sheriff in New Mexico … or was he? The official story is that sheriff Pat shot and buried the kid in 1881 in Fort Sumner, NM. However, there is no body in that grave. Legend has it that “The Kid” lived on and settled in Hico under the alias of “Brushy Bill” Roberts. It’s an interesting little museum, and it might just make you a believer!

Hico also has an inventive spot for climbers! Siloville is a climbing park that features rock walls and rope climbs both inside and outside of three giant grain silos. The park consists of a Ninja Warrior Course, a low ropes course, a bouldering gym, and even a zipline.

Cute downtown, good restaurants, cowboy conspiracy theories, and climbing adventures…what more could want in a Texas day trip?

10. Dinosaur Valley State Park

Distance: 90 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 30 mins

Dinosaur Valley State Park is the land of the dinos and the perfect day trip for family adventures. It lies less than two hours southwest of Dallas in the town of Glen Rose. The park revolves around tracks found in the Paluxy River bed. We don’t know many little kids that don’t go through a dinosaur obsession phase. What could be better than hunting for real dinosaur footprints?! 

While hunting for dinosaurs is the main activity, the park offers lots of outdoor adventures too. Horseback riding is popular. You can bring your own horse (how very Texan!) or Eagle Eye Ranch Carriage Company offers guided trails rides and wagon rides. These guys are experts and will escort littles or inexperienced riders the whole way! 

There are over 20 miles of trails rated easy and moderate to explore. Kayaking the Paluxy is also fun when the waters are high, but this rarely happens unless there has been very recent rain. The Blue Hole is popular for swimming, a much appreciated cool off after all that adventure! 

11. Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

Distance: 32 miles

Travel Time: 32 mins

You won’t even notice you have left the city when you head from Dallas proper to Fort Worth, but you will notice a change in pace. Fort Worth is known by Dallas residents as “Cowtown,” and for good reason. Fort Worth has thriving cowboy culture and is home to Billy Bob’s “World’s Largest Honky-Tonk” Billy’s is a destination all on its own. With huge parties, a full-southern kitchen with incredible food, live bull-riding, and plenty of two-stepping, it’s a great place to people watch and dance the night away after a busy day exploring.

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is the major draw for the area. Be transported back to days of the wild west, as herds of longhorn cattle are brought storming down the center of town, twice daily. They make their way down original brick walkways through the center of historic saloons and modern boutiques in historic facades. The area is certainly touristy, but it gives you a good idea of what living in a real wild west town would have been like. Special events like shootouts often happen in the streets, and even Santa shows up in cowboy boots here. Cowtown is a pretty perfect name.

After a morning herding cattle, head for Sundance Square and visit some of the great museums that Fort Worth has to offer. Grab a coffee or an ice cream and do some people watching by the incredible fountains. Stroll past the incredible modern installations at the Fort Worth Water Gardens. They are mesmerizing. Fort Worth also has a great botanical garden and a noteworthy zoo! It’s a wonderful adventure for the whole clan. While you can have a great day trip to Fort Worth, you will certainly be left wanting more. Plan to come back a few times to see all this beautiful city has to offer. 

​12. Cavanaugh Flight Museum

Distance: 15 miles

Travel Time: 20 mins

Just north of Dallas, the Cavanaugh Flight Museum offers the perfect getaway for aviation or military nerds. The museum is in the town of Addison and while traffic can be frustrating, it is usually an easy trip. The Cavanaugh collection is huge and includes warcraft from WWI, WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam, and civilian aircraft. Tours are self-guided and aircraft is labeled with important information and interesting stories. 

It’s amusing to wander through the vintage aircraft and admire their beauty, but the real fun in this museum happens in the cockpit. Cavanaugh offers visitors the chance to climb behind the controls of a classic fighter Warbird and hit the skies. You will need an advanced ticket for this, but oh man is it worth it! 

The collection at Cavanaugh is almost exclusively functional. Most planes are kept in flying condition, and many of them fly frequently in their scheduled airshows and special events. It is definitely worth the short trip from Dallas.

13. Grapevine Jazz Wine Train

Distance: 22 miles

Travel Time: 25 mins

Grapevine is just northwest of Dallas Downtown. In fact, if you are flying into DFW Airport, you will land in Grapevine. As the name suggests, Grapevine is the wine region of North Texas. While there are several local wineries to indulge in a tasting or tour, the real standout is the Jazz Wine Train . 

Picture this. You and your boo, in your best getup, board a 1920s Victorian coach train filled with the soft sounds of the saxophone and the smell of fresh hors d’oeuvres. The ride is two hours of fine food, beautiful live jazz, and a sampling of wine from each of Grapevine’s tasting rooms! It is the best way to try out all the local specialties without hopping from tasting room to tasting room. It all comes to you, in one sumptuous place. 

The train has day time and evening journey and requires advanced booking. Get there early as boarding is strict and you will not be allowed on the train after boarding ends. There are several packages available at varying prices that will determine what food and seating you and your company enjoy. 

For its close proximity to Dallas, its uniqueness, and the pure nostalgia, we think the Grapevine Jazz Wine Train is the perfect day trip for a romantic getaway.

14. Greenville, Texas

Distance: 51 miles

Travel Time: 54 mins

Greenville is just an hour northeast of Dallas, but it feels a world away. Greenville is an amusing day trip for anyone interested in US war history or the cotton industry of the south. The quaint downtown has several buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is worth a walk around to explore the boutique and shops. Pay attention to the little plaques on the building facades for interesting historical facts about the structures.

While the town is cute, the main event in Greenville is the Audie Murphy American Cotton Museum . This unique museum is two-part. One half covers the life and memory of Audie Murphy. Audie was a small-town boy who registered willingly for WWII at the Greenville post office in 1942. In the next three years, Audie managed to become the most decorated war hero of WWII, winning every acknowledgment possible, including the Congressional Medal of Honor. The exhibit not only details Audie’s life and work but also several other war heroes and WWII history in general. 

The second half of the museum focuses on local history and the important (if controversial) legacy of the cotton industry in Texas. Greenville, and Hunt County in general, were a hub for the cotton industry. It even boasted the largest inland cotton press in the world, which is on display at the museum now.

15. Largest Flea Market In The World

Distance: 60 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr

Calling all bargain hunters! Canton Texas is your place for flea market shopping, and it is an easy day trip—just an hour east of Dallas. First Monday Trade Days happens each month on the weekend before the first Monday of a month. Yeah, that is a little confusing. Chew on that one for a minute. Anyway, the market usually runs from Thursday to Sunday. Whether it is the largest in the world is debatable, as the definition of “flea market” can be tricky. It is definitely the biggest in the United States though. 

The market covers more than 100 acres and features wares from over 6,000 traders. Pavillion after pavilion tote treasures of every imaginable category. Smart shoppers get there on Thursday, as it is less busy and less picked-over. It’s a bit of a maze, and as mentioned really big. So, if you find something you like, go ahead and buy it, because the likelihood of finding your way back to it is slim!

16. Tolar Windmill Farm

Distance: 76 miles

The Windmill Farm at Tolar is a quirky day trip from Dallas. The farm lies between the two small towns of Tolar and Granbury. The farm consists of a collection of 30 vintage windmills, gathered from local farms around the region. The windmills have been restored to perfection and all are in working order. They are gathering new windmills all the time and many are in the restoration process now. Park at the site and feel free to roam. There is a pamphlet available at the site to detail specifics on each windmill. Usually, many of them are in operation. The site is open for self-guided tours every day during daylight hours. 

The site is free, but donations for restorations and upkeep are encouraged. Should you happen to fall in love with the farm, which is highly probable, their bed and breakfast is a charming place to spend a night!

17. Tyler Municipal Rose Garden

The Tyler Rose Garden is a must-do road trip for flower lovers. The garden covers 14 acres, with 35,000 rose bushes of over 500 varieties. It is the largest rose garden in the United States (well of course, because everything is bigger in Texas)! Tyler has a long history of rose growing and is home to the Texas Rose Festival. The park is beautiful with multiple water features and stunning landscaping. The best part is that the whole place is free! 

Explore the gardens any time of year, but the peak bloom season for the roses is twice a year in October and late May. It is open from dawn until dusk and a wonderful place to spend a peaceful afternoon.

18. Oklahoma Casinos

Distance: 80 miles

Travel Time: 1 hr 20 mins

Oklahoma has a couple of claims to fame, Native American reservations and historical sites, and casinos! Southeastern Oklahoma has some great casinos that are within a day-trip range from Dallas. In Thackerville, the Chickasaw Nation owns and runs the Winstar World Resort Casino, which happens to be the largest casino in the world (guess in this case, things are bigger in Oklahoma)!  

The casino covers over 600,000 square feet of space and as you would imagine is loaded with amazing restaurants and a massive hotel. If you want to do some gambling, the Winstar is your closest and best. However, if it’s a bit much for you, there are smaller and just as awesome casinos all up the border of easter Oklahoma. It just depends on how far your want to drive.

19. Bar Hop In Austin

Distance: 196 miles

Travel Time: 3 hr 25 mins

Austin is the capital city of Texas and a haven for foodies and nightlife lovers. It admittedly is a long way for a day trip. However, it is a great city, with a totally different flavor than the rest of Texas. We would definitely recommend that you make this a long weekend trip, but you can have a great day in Austin if you want to take it on in a day. Start with a visit to the State Capitol building and a quick stop by the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum. Then head for Sixth Street District and begin your bar hop. Austin is home to the University of Texas and is the live music capital of the world, so it has a young, fresh vibe, and the nightlife is amazing! 

Let’s Roam can help you find all the best spots with our app-led scavenger hunt, “ Sixth Street Spree: Austin Bar Crawl .” We will take you and your friends on a competitive adventure, exploring Sixth street with a series of photo and trivia challenges that will keep you on your feet, without killing your buzz. Obviously, if you decide to go on a bar crawl, you should find a place to stay the night! 

Austin is much more than a party town. If you decide to stay a few days, make sure to check out some of the great museums. Our guide to the “ Best Museums in Austin ” will help you narrow it down. Between the museums and the nightlife, Austin is a great destination for a weekend getaway from Dallas.

20. Jefferson

Distance: 166 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 40 mins

Jefferson is a mecca for history lovers, with over 70 registered historical sites. Start with a visit to Jefferson Museum of History , the former Federal Courthouse and Post Office, dating back to 1888. The museum hosts an interesting collection of Caddo Tribal artifacts and Civil Ward memorabilia. Step behind the museum and explore the scale model of the Texas and Pacific Railway Depot from the early 1900s. 

Kids will love a ride on the Historic Jefferson Railway, a 40-minute locomotive chug through the Big Cypress Bayou, along Caddo Lake. Fishermen bring your poles because the assortment of fish in the bayou is unmatched anywhere. 

Jefferson also boasts the Gone With The Wind Museum , the Jefferson General Store, open since the 1870s, and Diamond Don’s Gator Pi t, where kids can get up close to alligators at feeding time.

21. Davy Crockett National Forest

Distance: 181 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 50 mins

The Davy Crockett National Rainforest leaves you in disbelief … disbelief that you are still in Texas that is. The Piney Woods is pretty far from the windswept plains of Texas that we all imagine when we think of the vast state. Leave early in the morning, as it is a long drive. Once you arrive, you will be treated with the complete relaxation that the forest offers. 

The forest covers 160,000 acres of East Texas land, mostly in Houston County. It features multiple streams, recreation areas, ponds, and lakes. There are more than 50 miles of designated trail riding routes, multiple hiking trails, quiet campsites, and fishing, boating, and swimming on the lakes. 

22. Turner Falls Park

Distance: 127 miles

Travel Time: 2 hrs 3 mins

Turner Falls Park rounds out our list of Dallas day trips. The waterfall is the tallest in Oklahoma, at 77 feet, and is truly stunning. It has a large swimming pit at the base and is a fun destination for an active day outside. Swimmers should always wear water shoes here and lifejackets are necessary for children. The area is slippery in general, even on the hiking trails, so be on guard. Make sure to view the falls from the top overlook at well. It’s a pretty short, manageable climb.

Turner park covers over 1500 acres and features natural rock caves and even a Rock Castle. It has bathhouses and multiple swimming areas with waterslides and diving platforms. Turner Park really is a full day of fun for nature lovers. 

We actually do not recommend staying the night here, especially if you have kids with you. On the weekend, especially, Turner Falls is busy and has become a bit of a party location.

Save For Later

Several travel guides out there suggest day trips to Oklahoma City and even San Antonio from Dallas. While these are amazing cities and are definitely worth a trip. At over 3 hours drive to Oklahoma City and more than a 4-hour drive to San Antonio, they are too far for day trips. This is especially true considering how much each city has to offer. You could easily spend 3-4 full days exploring these destinations!

Let’s Wrap It Up

Dallas is a great city and deserves a few days on its own, but don’t get stuck in the city. Get away from the chaos for a day and explore one of the small historic towns or get some fresh air in one of the beautiful parks. Let us know where you end up in the comments!

Should you decide to just stay in the city, no problem! We have you covered there too! Here’s our list of the “ Best Museums in Dallas ” to keep you busy on a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Since the city is perfectly positioned, there are several great educational day trips from Dallas . Check out the Fort Worth Stockyards, the Cavanaugh Flight Museum, or Dinosaur Valley State Park!

Dallas is a great city to explore! Take your date on a  fun-filled city scavenger hunt  or take a day trip and hop a ride on the Jazz Wine Train in Grapevine!

There are beautiful state parks that make  great day trips from Dallas ! Head to Turner Falls Park and swim under the waterfall, hike in the Davy Crockett National Forest, or enjoy Lake Texoma.

Featured Products & Activities

It's the longest day of the year! Here's 25+ Texas things to do before sunset

Whether you're a native texan or just passing through, here's a list of very stereotypical things to do here. how many can you check off before the sun sets.

Today is the longest day of the year, and there's no better way to spend those extra daylight hours than participating in some quintessential Texas activities.

Whether you're a native Texan or just passing through, here's a list of things to do that scream "Texas." How many can you check off before the sun sets?

More: Nothing to do in West Texas? Here are 30 day trips on a tank of gas from Lubbock

Why is it the longest day of the year?

The summer solstice falls annually on June 20, marking the first official day of summer. The sun reaches its highest and northernmost points in the sky, bringing the longest period of sunlight for those in the Northern Hemisphere.

When is sunset in Texas?

Sunset times vary across the state. But from East Texas to West Texas, it ranges between 8:29 p.m. and 9:01 p.m.

More: Is Beavis and Butt-Head based in Texas? Mike Judge hints at it

Here are some things to do.

While we recognize some of these are more plausible than others, this is truly only a compilation of classic Texas activities. Remember, the goal is to cram in as many as possible on the longest day of the year.

• Eat barbecue in Lockhart
• Visit the Alamo in San Antonio
• Dance at Gruene Hall
• Eat a kolache from West, Texas
• Go to a rodeo
• Watch the Houston Astros game (on TV)
• Visit the Stockyards in Fort Worth and watch the twice-daily cattle drive
• Visit the Texas Capitol in Austin
• Go two-stepping at Billy Bob’s Texas
• Host a backyard barbecue
• Enjoy a meal along the River Walk in San Antonio
• Explore Big Bend National Park
• Visit the Magnolia Market in Waco
• Float a river
• Go wine tasting in Fredericksburg
• Visit the Fort Worth Zoo
• Watch bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin
• Visit the Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas
• Go horseback riding
• Eat Blue Bell ice cream
• Take a scenic drive through Hill Country
• Visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
• Go stargazing at the McDonald Observatory
• Eat at the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo
• Visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas
• Visit the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library in College Station
• Drink a Dr Pepper — or maybe two
• Eat on the patio of Joe T. Garcia's in Fort Worth

(We would have added Whataburger to the list, but we all know it tastes best after sunset.)

More: Looking for something free to do in Austin this summer? We've got you.

Some Of Earth's Oldest Mountains Are Only A Day Trip From Dallas

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• Wichita Mountains, over 500 million years old, showcase Earth's ancient past.
• Unique granite formations offer hikers a glimpse into the world's geological history.
• Road trip from Dallas to see ancient mountains is a surreal experience, must-visit.

What are the oldest mountains in the world? Some might consider the Andes among the oldest, but according to the latest estimates, the Andes are only 25 million years old . How about the Alps? They're a little older at 44 million years old . In the grander scheme of things, these mountain chains are relatively young in their formation. No, for the real old mountain chains, you'd have to look somewhere else. Some of the oldest mountains in the world are right outside of Dallas.

The Wichita Mountains were named after the local Native Americans who dwelt here, but the mountains themselves date back more than 500 million years. Among the many unique things to do in Dallas is to take a road trip to the Wichita Mountains in Oklahoma and experience their grandeur. Imagine setting foot in the hills that saw the passing of dinosaurs 500 million years in the past. That's an almost surreal feeling for most. Let's see what makes this day trip so awesome and what visitors can see on their way there.

The Wichita Mountains: An Ancient Geological Marvel

The wichita mountains are a geologically significant spot.

The Wichita Mountains are not just any range; they are among the oldest mountain ranges in the world, formed around 525 million years ago. These ancient formations provide a unique glimpse into Earth's distant past, predating even the dinosaurs. The mountains are primarily composed of granite, rhyolite, and other volcanic rocks, indicating their volcanic origins. For those looking at underrated hikes near Dallas , the trails up here are some of the best.

Geologists and nature enthusiasts find the Wichita Mountains fascinating for their complex geological history. The area showcases a variety of rock formations and landscapes, offering insights into the processes that shaped our planet's surface over eons.

Three Weekend Trips From Dallas Worth Hitting The Road For

A weekend getaway from Dallas will leave one refreshed. And these three destinations are some of the region's gems.

How To Get From Dallas To The Wichita Mountains

Dallas is a day trip's drive from the wichita mountains.

How does a traveler visit some of the oldest mountains in the world? Starting from Dallas, the trip to the Wichita Mountains covers approximately 180 miles, making it a perfect day trip destination. Travelers can take the I-35 North route, which offers a scenic drive through North Texas into southern Oklahoma. The drive usually takes around three hours, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the changing landscapes.

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: A Nature Lover's Paradise

The wichita mountains offer wildlife, epic views, and more.

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination within the mountain range, spanning over 59,000 acres. It is home to diverse wildlife, including American bison, elk, white-tailed deer, and over 240 bird species. Visitors can also explore the refuge's numerous hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

The refuge also boasts several picturesque lakes, such as Lake Jed Johnson and Quanah Parker Lake, perfect for fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Cultural And Historical Highlights Of The Wichita Mountains

Native american heritage abounds in these iconic mountains.

Aside from being some of the oldest mountains in the world, the range has significance to the pre-Columbian tribes that lived here. The mountains were named after the Wichita tribe , who historically inhabited the region. The area is rich in Native American heritage, with several sites of cultural and archaeological interest.

Visitors can learn about the history and traditions of the Native American tribes at the Museum of the Great Plains in nearby Lawton, OK. Visiting the museum is one of the underrated things that travelers to Oklahoma can enjoy while exploring the beautiful small towns in the area . The museum features exhibits on Native American culture, early settlers, and the natural history of the region.

Best Time To Visit The Wichita Mountains (And Seasonal Tips)

The best time to visit the wichita mountains is in fall or spring.

The Wichita Mountains can be visited year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and fall seasons. During these periods, the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Spring offers blooming wildflowers, while fall brings stunning foliage.

Spring, summer and autumn are all great seasons for hiking. The temperatures can get out of hand quickly, so being aware of the weather forecast is crucial to enjoying a trip out here.

Visitors should be aware of the summer heat, which can be intense, and winter conditions, which may bring occasional snow and ice. It’s always best to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Hiking Some Of The Oldest Mountains In The World Is Worth A Day Trip

This three-hour trip is more than worth it.

It's not every day someone gets to see some of the oldest mountains in the world. Those who visit Dallas are in for a rare treat. The mountains might not be as tall as Everest, but they've been around for quite a while. When these peaks were young, dinosaurs still roamed the land.

Today, they are a lot lower than they once were — the result of millions of years of erosion. Yet walking on the bones of this range is like reaching back in time and touching the past in a way that's hard to describe.

Have you ever traversed the Wichita Mountains? What was it like?

• Top Sights In Texas

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Automotive, Travel, and Traffic Safety Information

Nearly 71 Million People Expected to Travel over July 4th Week

This year’s extended independence day forecast exceeds pre-pandemic numbers, sets new record.

WASHINGTON, DC (June 20, 2024) – AAA projects 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Independence Day holiday travel period*. For the first time, AAA looked at the entire July 4 th week, plus the Saturday before and the Sunday after the holiday. This year’s projected number of travelers for that time period is a 5% increase compared to 2023 and an 8% increase over 2019.

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “We anticipate this July 4 th week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”   

AAA projects a record 60.6 million people will travel by car over Independence Day week – that’s an additional 2.8 million travelers compared to last year. This year’s number also surpasses 2019 when 55.3 million people traveled by car over July 4 th week. AAA car rental partner Hertz says Dallas, Denver, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are the cities displaying the highest rental demand during the holiday week. The busiest pick-up days are projected to be Friday, June 28, Saturday, June 29, and Wednesday, July 3.   

Gas prices are lower than last year when the national average was $3.53. Pump prices will likely continue going down leading up to Independence Day.  At that point, they will likely level off and remain relatively stable until after Labor Day, similar to last year.  An important caveat is hurricane season – underway now – which could affect gas prices should a storm negatively impact Gulf Coast oil production and refining centers.  

The number of air travelers is also expected to set a new record. AAA projects 5.74 million people will fly to their July 4 th destinations. That’s an increase of nearly 7% compared to last year and a 12% increase over 2019. AAA booking data shows domestic airfare is 2% cheaper this Independence Day week compared to last year, and the average price for a domestic roundtrip ticket is $800. Airports will be packed throughout the week. AAA recommends arriving 2 hours early, reserving parking ahead of time, and traveling with carry-on luggage versus checked bags to save time and money.   

More than 4.6 million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. This category is seeing an increase of 9% compared to last year, but this year’s number is shy of 2019’s figure of 4.79 million. Cruising continues its remarkable post-pandemic comeback. This time of year, Alaska cruises are in high demand, making Seattle and Anchorage top domestic destinations. Cruise travelers are also finding deals this summer. With new ships coming onto the market – and going for a premium – some cruise lines have been offering targeted discounts to fill older inventory for remaining cabins.  

Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro 

INRIX , a provider of transportation data and insights, says the worst times to travel by car before and on July 4 th are between 2pm and 7pm. Drivers should hit the road in the morning, and travelers returning on Monday, July 8 th should avoid rush hour traffic in the morning and afternoon.  

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3 rd , as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7th, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “R oad trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal. Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions.”  

Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located.   

For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT.  

Source: INRIX  

  Top Destinations 

This July 4 th week, travelers are cooling off in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska – and by the ocean! Seattle, Vancouver, and Anchorage are top destinations because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Beaches in South Florida, Honolulu, Punta Cana, and Barcelona are in high demand. Historical sites in European cities like London, Rome, Dublin, Paris, and Athens are also popular. The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data.  

Family Road Trip Checklist    

With road trips expected to set a new record this July 4 th week, AAA teamed up with Chicco to share safety tips for families with young children.  

• Check car seat fit. Before you hit the road, check your child’s weight and height to ensure they’re in the right seat and mode of use – especially when it comes to transitioning from rear to forward-facing. Children should remain rear-facing as long as possible for better protection of their head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash. If you are unsure which car seat is best for your child, Chicco offers a car seat comparison guide.    
• Double check car seat installation. Even if your car seat is already installed in the car, it’s worth checking everything is safe and secure. An easy at-home way to do this is with the “inch test.” Simply grab the seat at the car seat belt path and pull side to side and front to back. If it moves more than one inch in any direction, uninstall and start over until a secure fit is achieved. For any questions, utilize the car seat manual, QR codes, or online resources like those offered by Chicco.    
• Secure loose items in the car. Take time to organize and clean up your car before hitting the road. Storage organizers that secure to the back of the driver and passenger seats are simple solutions to make sure everything has a spot, especially loose items that can become projectiles in case of a sudden stop.  
• Be prepared for the unexpected. Pack an emergency kit with first-aid supplies, water, snacks, blankets, jumper cables, and flares. Make sure your phone is fully charged – and keep a charger in the car – to call AAA or request roadside assistance digitally if your battery dies, you lock yourself out, or you need a tow.   
• Map your route. Families with young children should plan for frequent and longer stops along the way. Map out your route ahead of time with AAA TripTik and browse hotels, restaurants, and other activities along the way on AAA Trip Canvas.  
• Bring entertainment. Make sure to place toys and books within reach to keep children entertained. If your kids use tablets or other electronics, make sure the devices are fully charged and pre-downloaded before leaving home. Another fun way to get the whole family excited for the road trip is to create a family playlist of everyone’s favorite songs!   

Holiday Forecast Methodology   

Travel Forecast    

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices, including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.   

Historical travel volume estimates come from DK SHIFFLET’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM . The PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. DK SHIFFLET contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.  

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of May 27, 2024.   

Because AAA forecasts focus on domestic leisure travel only, comparisons to TSA passenger screening numbers should not be made. TSA data includes all passengers traveling on both domestic and international routes. Additionally, TSA screens passengers each time they enter secured areas of the airport, therefore each one-way trip is counted as a passenger tally. AAA focuses on person-trips, which include the full round-trip travel itinerary. As a result, direct comparisons of AAA forecast volumes and daily TSA screenings represent different factors.  

*Independence Day Holiday Travel Period   

For this forecast, the Independence Day holiday travel period is defined as the nine-day period from Saturday, June 29 to Sunday, July 7. Historically, the Independence Day holiday period included only one weekend. This is the first year the Independence Day holiday travel period is a longer timeframe with two weekends included.  

About AAA    

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 64 million members across North America, including 57 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.   

About S&P Global   S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses, and individuals with the right data, expertise, and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges, and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world’s leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity, and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow today. For more information, visit  www.spglobal.com .   

About DKSA    

DK SHIFFLET boasts the industry’s most complete database on U.S. resident travel both in the U.S. and worldwide. Data is collected monthly from a U.S. representative sample, adding over 60,000 traveling households annually, and is used daily by leading travel organizations and their strategic planning groups. DK SHIFFLET is an MMGY Global company.   

About INRIX     

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.