long weekend trips from austin

30 Best Weekend Getaways From Austin — Quick Trips!

By: Author Henry Stewart

Posted on Published: January 14, 2023  - Last updated: June 24, 2023

Austin, the lively Texan city, offers a world of tantalizing flavors and captivating melodies. 

But beyond its borders lies a realm of untapped wonders, beckoning you to step into the unknown. 

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of nature, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or quality time with family, Austin’s neighboring marvels have it all. 

From charming small towns to bustling metropolises, I have curated a list of the finest destinations in Texas. 

I’ve even included additional locations that will captivate travelers of all ages. 

Prepare for an extraordinary journey as I guide you on the best weekend getaways from Austin.

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Best Weekend Getaways From Austin Compared

Discover the ultimate weekend getaways from Austin, handpicked for you. 

From charming Hill Country retreats to coastal havens, I’ve uncovered hidden gems that promise unforgettable family adventures.

Editor’s Choice

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Opened in 1980, this hotel exudes elegance with its historic charm, fine dining, luxurious spa, and impeccable service.

• Room Variety: 4/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 5/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Family-Friendliness: 3/5

#2nd Best Choice

The Post Oak Hotel

The Post Oak Hotel shines like an exquisite gem. The elegant accommodations, meticulously designed with families in mind, offer a haven of comfort and luxury.

• Room Variety: 5/5
• Location: 4/5
• Affordability: 2/5
• Family-Friendliness: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Stanton House El Paso

Nestled in the heart of El Paso, it offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

• Room Variety: 3/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 4/5

Here are top 30 weekend getaways from Austin.

1. Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek (Editor’s Choice)

2821 Turtle Creek Blvd Dallas, TX 75219 (214) 559-2100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Timeless Elegance: The Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek exudes a timeless elegance that instantly captivates guests. 
• Tranquil Location: The peaceful surroundings allow guests to unwind and relax, immersing themselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
• Higher Price Range: While the experience is undoubtedly worth the cost for those seeking indulgence, it may not be suitable for travelers on a tighter budget.
• Limited Family-Friendliness: While Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek provides a remarkable experience for couples and adults, it may not offer as many family-oriented amenities or activities.

Just a short drive from Austin, this historic mansion stands as a testament to timeless beauty. 

Its stunning architecture and lush surroundings will have you swooning from the moment you arrive.

From exquisite menus curated by renowned chefs to exceptional service, this place knows how to pamper you.

And speaking of pampering, their luxurious spa is a slice of heaven on earth. 

It’s an idyllic retreat for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families in search of a luxurious escape, or even solo explorers wanting to treat themselves.

2. The Post Oak Hotel

1600 W Loop S Houston, TX 77027 (844) 386-1600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Exceptional Room Variety: The Post Oak Hotel boasts an exceptional range of room options, providing guests with a variety of choices to suit their preferences and needs.
• Prime Location: Situated in the heart of Houston, The Post Oak Hotel enjoys a prime location that offers easy access to the city’s vibrant attractions, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks. 
• Expensive Dining Options: The prices for meals and beverages within the hotel’s dining establishments may be higher compared to nearby options, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers or those looking for more affordable dining options.
• Availability: It is advisable to make reservations well in advance to secure desired dates and room types. 

The Post Oak Hotel shines like an exquisite gem. 

The elegant accommodations, meticulously designed with families in mind, offer a haven of comfort and luxury.

You’ll also have to prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey like no other. 

From world-class dining options to delectable treats that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters, this place is a food lover’s paradise.

The on-site spa is a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation. 

The attention to detail and family-friendly amenities will make your stay truly unforgettable.

3. Stanton House El Paso

209 N Stanton St El Paso, TX 79901 (915) 271-3600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Unique Charm and Character: With its distinct personality and stylish design, the hotel creates a memorable and immersive experience for guests.
• Budget-Friendly Option: Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations, convenient amenities, and a pleasant stay without breaking the bank.
• Room Variety: While Stanton House El Paso offers comfortable and well-maintained accommodations, the hotel may have limited room variety compared to larger establishments. 
• Moderate Family-Friendliness: Families with younger children might find the property less focused on catering to their specific needs, potentially requiring more effort in finding suitable activities or entertainment options for kids.

It has stylish accommodations, a rooftop bar, and panoramic views of the cityscape.

From the captivating local art scene to the breathtaking mountain views, this place is a feast for the senses.

But what truly sets Stanton House El Paso apart from other attractions in the area is its authenticity. 

You’ll find yourself enchanted by the rich local culture and warm hospitality. 

Exploring the vibrant streets, savoring traditional cuisine, and connecting with the locals will add a layer of depth to your journey.

4. Houston, TX

Houston, TX (800) 446-7866 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Houston is the most populous city in Texas and the most populous city in the South.

Weekend getaway planning is incomplete without considering Texas’ largest city.

Drive for 2 hours and a half and reach Houston, famously called “The Big Heart.”

Assume you have an entire weekend to visit the city’s numerous sights and events.

What are your plans, and where are you going?

We recommend beginning with the highlights and working your way down.

If you’re in the uptown district, visit Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park.

It’s a great location to unwind, with a multi-story water fountain and green space.

Of course, no vacation to Houston is complete without a stop at one of the country’s largest museums.

Explore the Museum of Fine Arts’ 70,000 works by artists from all over the world.

End the trip at the Cockrell Butterfly Center, especially if you’re with the entire family.

Kids of all ages will enjoy seeing hundreds of butterflies, tropical plants, and waterfalls.

Recommended Hotel: JW Marriott Houston Downtown

5. Dallas, TX

Dallas, TX (214) 670-3111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Dallas is Texas’ third largest city and the largest city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.

Another heavyweight option is Dallas, Texas’ cosmopolitan city and food mecca.

It has a stunning skyline and a thriving arts scene, both of which you must explore during your visit.

Begin by learning about art and history in downtown Dallas, just under three hours away.

The Sixth Floor Museum is an excellent first choice, as well as an intriguing one.

View the room from which gunman Lee Harvey Oswald observed the presidential car approaching.

Learn more about John F. Kennedy’s assassination and everything else that happened on that fateful day.

Remember to pay a visit to the HALL Arts Hotel Dallas next.

It mixes art, elegance, and a fantastic Arts District location.

On day two, food-trip your way through the city.

Since Dallas is known for all things barbeque, head to Kenny’s Wood Fired Grill.

They serve the best steak and ribs in town and don’t miss out on the popovers.

If coffee and brunch are your thing, you deserve the best-rated cafe in Dallas.

Cafe 43 serves Benedicts and ice cream in the George W. Bush Presidential Library.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel ZaZa Dallas

Related: Weekend Getaways Near Oklahoma City

6. Corpus Christi, TX

Corpus Christi, TX (361) 826-2489 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Corpus Christi is a Texas city nestled in a bay on the Gulf of Mexico.

Do you want to know what Corpus Christi is famous for?

Travel for three hours and get to know this charming coastal city.

It’s well-known for its high wind speeds, making it an ideal location for sailing and kiteboarding.

But Corpus Christi is much more than that.

There’s the beach to enjoy and the weather to enjoy even more.

Make the most of your visit by enjoying the perks such as picnicking and watching the sunsets.

After you’ve had your fill of the water, explore the city’s murals and art.

This city is as colorful as ever, from Loteria artwork to electricity box murals and sculptures.

To cap off a fantastic tour, drink at night with Corpus Christi’s favorite booze.

Fantastic craft breweries abound, and they know how to create delicious margaritas.

Join the Corpus Christi Beer Trail to experience beer tasting at its finest.

Recommended Hotel: Omni Corpus Christi Hotel

Related: Hotels in Austin

7. Galveston, TX

Galveston, TX (409) 797-3500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Galveston Island State Park is a Texas state park on Galveston Island’s western shore.

Planning for cheap vacations from Austin?

Galveston, an island metropolis on Texas’ Gulf Coast, is only three hours and thirty minutes away.

Explore the island’s many attractions, all within walking distance of one another.

Even better, Galveston vacations are inexpensive, making them ideal for families on a budget.

You don’t have to spend a fortune just to stay, eat, and explore.

Galveston Island State Park, for example, is one of the best places to visit, and it’s free.

It has camping, hiking routes, and birdwatching locations the whole family may enjoy.

The Galveston Children’s Museum is a must-see if you’re traveling with little ones.

It is filled with hundreds of pieces of artwork, making it an exciting experience for artsy children.

Stop at Gaidos after an exciting day of touring the city.

It’s a large Texas seafood mainstay that has been around for a long time.

If you came to Galveston to taste its Gulf Coast oysters, this is the place to go.

Recommended Hotel: The San Luis Resort Spa & Conference Center

8. Lake Charles, LA

Lake Charles, LA (337) 436-9588 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Charles is well-known for its gambling, rhythm and blues music, and delicious cuisine.

Lake Charles, four and a half hours away, is the ideal weekend retreat.

It’s a beloved Louisiana city for tourists and locals, with various exciting things to do.

Despite being one of the state’s largest cities, it has the feel of a little Southern town.

What should you do first when you arrive?

We recommend taking a stroll through the historic district.

The city has a rich history, which is visible in its architecture.

The homes lining these streets are so well preserved that they transport you to another era.

After that, spend the day at the beach or go for a short hike on one of the trails.

Head over to North Beach to enjoy both, especially if you’re with your outdoorsy family.

It has a boardwalk connecting several nature walks and parks to stretch your legs.

Alternatively, take an educational tour of one of its famous museums.

Visit the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu for an educational and aesthetic experience.

It is open all year and displays Mardi Gras costumes from previous decades.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Lake Charles South Casino Area, an IHG Hotel

9. Georgetown

Georgetown, TX (800) 436-8696 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Georgetown is located 25 miles north of Austin and is home to Texas’ Most Beautiful Town Square.

Are you in a hurry and only have time for last minute weekend getaways from Austin?

There’s no need to travel for hours when Georgetown is just 30 minutes away.

If you only have two days to explore, start by connecting with nature at Lake Georgetown.

It’s a 1200-acre lake where you can spend a few hours fishing, hiking, and camping.

Afterward, satisfy your BBQ cravings at Hello Sweetie! BBQ.

Since Texas is known for its big portions of grilled meat, this is an easy choice.

Have your fill of melt-in-your-mouth ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and all your favorite homemade sides.

Cap off a fantastic day at the famous Georgetown Palace Theatre after dinner.

It features performances for all ages, including comedy, musicals, and family-friendly shows.

Recommended Hotel: Sheraton Austin Georgetown Hotel & Conference Center

Related: Weekend Trips in Texas

10. Luckenbach

Luckenbach, TX (830) 997-3224 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Luckenbach is an unincorporated community in Gillespie County.

Texas is known for all things big, from its food to its cities.

But what about its smallest town?

Get to know Luckenbach after only an hour and a half of driving.

It has a population of only three individuals, which makes it more worthy of a visit.

First, go to the well-known General Store.

This former post office turned store is unquestionably one of the town’s key draws.

It’s an experience in and of itself, from the exterior to the treasures within.

Admire the massive live oak tree out front and browse inside for keepsakes to take home.

What makes Luckenbach even more interesting is country music.

Everywhere you go in Luckenbach, there is music every day.

Eat your lunch at one of the picnic tables while bobbing your head to the lively tunes.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Fredericksburg

11. Falls Creek Vineyards and Becker Vineyards

18059 Farm to Market Rd 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 (512) 858-4050 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Fall Creek Vineyards is the Texas Hill Country’s first winery.

Are you up for a wine-tasting weekend with your significant other?

Visit two of the most beautiful wineries located just 40 minutes away.

Learn about the best wines and spend the weekend buzzing with excitement.

Nothing says romance like wine, especially when paired with opulent accommodations.

Fall Creek Vineyards offers wine and a 4-star Wine Country Inn.

It features two master suites, a fireplace, and a fully equipped kitchen with a private chef.

On the other hand, Becker Vineyards features a magnificent cabin with a lovely flower garden.

Remember to browse the tasting room for a wide range of lavender products, from soaps to eye pillows.

If you’re on the hunt for the best romantic getaways from Austin, there are no better places than these.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Dripping Springs – Austin Area, an IHG Hotel

12. Colorado Bend State Park

2236 Park Hill Dr Bend, TX 76824 (325) 628-3240 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Colorado Bend is a riverside park with waterfalls, caves, and camping areas.

Is it really possible to spend a whole weekend at a park?

It is at Colorado Bend State Park, an hour and 45 minutes drive from Austin.

It has stunning natural scenery, outdoor pursuits, and camping facilities for a cool overnight trip.

One of the nicest paths in the park, the Gorman Falls Trail, is a great place to start your hike.

Tourists frequently hike to the end, where there is a beautiful waterfall.

The vista is spectacular, and you can take shots in the water.

After trekking, cool off at one of the cave excursions and take in the 72-degree temperature.

Recommended Hotel: Painted Sky Inn

13. Dripping Springs

Dripping Springs, TX (512) 858-4740 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Dripping Springs is a predominantly rural town 40 minutes west of Austin.

Another quick weekend getaway in mind?

Consider Dripping Springs if you’re looking for short trips from Austin .

After just a 40-minute drive, learn about this small town with a rich tradition and a modern vibe.

Natural springs, outdoor activities, and breathtaking views make it a year-round destination.

Arrive early to explore historic Mercer Street.

Marvel at its historic stores, all untouched throughout the years.

For a good laugh, head to the Barber Shop Bar and request a haircut.

It’s already been converted into a pub, yet it still appears like a conventional barbershop.

End the day at Dripping Springs’ best-rated restaurant, Epicure Market.

It’s open until 8 pm and serves wine, bistro fare, and cheese plates.

14. Enchanted Rock State Park

16710 Ranch Rd. 965 Fredericksburg, TX (830) 685-3636 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Enchanted Rock is a pink granite peak in the Llano Uplift.

See a magical place with the entire family after just under a two-hour drive.

Enchanted Rock State Park in Texas is famous for its massive pink granite dome.

And obviously, climbing to the top of the dome is one of the best experiences.

If you’re not into hiking, you can still view it from below—the rock is beautiful either way.

It’s also one of the state’s most popular parks for outdoor enthusiasts.

There are numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty, offering some of the most breathtaking views.

Since there are camping grounds, you can easily spend the weekends here.

As a bonus, it’s equally magical at night, being one of the International Dark Sky Parks.

It has a dark sky monitor to assess the relative darkness, making it ideal for astrophotography.

Recommended Hotel: Contigo Ranch

Gruene, TX (830) 629-5077 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Gruene, a German-Texan town in Comal County, was formerly a major cotton-producing hamlet.

We’re all aware that New Braunfels is famed for its German-centric environment and vibe.

But so is its adjacent city, Gruene, located just 47 minutes away.

It still contains the enthralling vestiges of German culture, plus other sights to see.

Bring your family to see its beautiful parks, rivers, and outdoor places.

Do you need assistance deciding where to stay?

We recommend the Gruene River Inn if you enjoy water views.

It is situated on the banks of the Guadalupe River, offering spectacular views of the Texas Hill Country.

When you go out, make sure to stop by the kid-favorite Schlitterbahn.

It’s a fun water park with rides and a calming wave pool if you just like to float about.

Finally, Winery on the Gruene is a great place to end your weekend.

Spend quality time with a loved one while sampling Texas wines on the beautiful terrace.

If you’re looking for places near Austin for vacation, consider Gruene.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village

16. Hamilton Pool Preserve

124300 Hamilton Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 (512) 264-2740 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a recreational area west of Austin in the Texas Hill Country.

Hamilton Pool Preserve, also located in Dripping Springs, is an experience on its own.

If you love hiking, swimming, and educational activities, all of these are under an hour away.

It’s home to incredible birds, rock formations, and a 50-foot waterfall cascading into a box canyon.

If you’re with your family, picnic tables are scattered around for dining.

Bring binoculars for bird-watching and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Keep an eye out for rare plant and bird species like the Cliff Swallows.

Admission is affordable, making it one of the more inexpensive weekend getaways near Austin.

Recommended Hotel: Lakeway Resort & Spa

17. Johnson City

Johnson City, TX (830) 868-7684 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Johnson City is the county seat of Blanco County, located in the Texas-German Belt region.

Texas is filled with family-friendly destinations, and here’s another one.

Johnson City, about an hour away, is packed with fun attractions for all ages.

It’s a little city amid the Appalachian Mountains foothills, so outdoor activities are a given.

It’s an excellent location for biking, hiking, and even discovering a fossil site.

On your first day, go to Gray’s Fossil & Hands-On Museum and explore paleontology exhibits.

It also has a Tesla coil and an art studio for young scientists and artists.

Next, treat yourself and your family to lunch at Main St. Pizza.

Choose from specialty pizzas, subs, pasta, and seasonal specials.

To round out the weekend, rent a bike and ride through the Tweetsie Trail.

This level 9.5-mile trail is ideal for strolling, hiking, running, and biking.

Because of its accessibility, it’s one of the best places to go for a weekend trip near you.

After what you’ve read, don’t you feel convinced to follow the city’s slogan, “Start your adventure here”?

Recommended Hotel: Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa

18. Lake Travis

Lake Travis, TX (512) 261-5121 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Travis is a Colorado River reservoir serving as a flood-control reservoir.

We’ve already recommended beautiful, water-surrounded places.

But what distinguishes Lake Travis (40 minutes away) from the others is its position as a non-Corps of Engineers lake.

This means that lake-related enterprises proliferate, increasing recreational activities.

Water parks, zip lines, lakefront restaurants, boat rentals—you name it.

Daring kids will surely enjoy the Lake Travis Waterloo Adventures.

It has a 600-foot water playground with over 20 obstacles.

Let them climb walls, monkey bars, and balance beams, all while floating above the water.

Participate in the challenge courses; don’t let the youngsters have all the fun.

Catch sunsets afterward at the famous restaurant, The Oasis.

This restaurant is located 450 feet above the lake and offers the best sunset view in town.

It’s the ideal way to wind down the day, especially if you’re with your significant other.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Place Austin Lake Travis/Four Points

19. Longhorn Caverns State Park

6211 Park Road 4 S Burnet, TX 78611 (512) 715-9000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Longhorn Caverns State Park is a natural rock formation-filled underground expanse.

If you’re a nature lover, it’s common knowledge that no two caves are alike.

But if that’s news to you, we have even more good news just 90 minutes away from Austin.

Longhorn Caverns State Park houses The National Cave of Texas.

Enjoy your stay by seeing the famed cave filled with spectacular rock formations.

While you’re doing so, a tour guide will educate you about the cave’s history.

If you’re with your little kids, take them gemstone mining.

They’re provided with their mining sluice box, where they can discover their own gems.

Have a barbecue picnic meal among the Hill Country trees.

The park already provides it, complete with a lunch set for two.

Although you can’t spend the entire weekend here, a Saturday or Sunday trip is worth it.

Recommended Hotel: Hidden Falls Inn

20. Magnolia Market

601 Webster Ave Waco, TX 76706 (254) 235-0603 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Magnolia Market features a chic home design and garden supply center.

Are shopping and dining two of your favorite weekend activities?

We already mentioned Magnolia Market earlier, but there’s so much more than that.

It’s about an hour and a half away, covers a vast area, and has different sections for different purposes.

There’s a quirky home section, the famed silos, and a bargain section.

The most exciting sections, though, are those for foodies.

There are food trucks, a bakery, and a coffee shop for all kinds of “hungry.”

There’s a hangout spot by the famous silos as well.

It’s a grassy area where you can relax, play cornhole, eat, and shop.

It is open Monday through Saturday, making it ideal for a quick day trip on weekends.

Recommended Hotel: Pivovar Hotel

21. Marble Falls

Marble Falls, TX (830) 693-3615 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Marble Falls is known for its iconic rock formations and shimmering lakes.

Have you already exhausted the getaways in Austin?

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll have a great time in Marble Falls.

It’s barely an hour away and has enough natural beauty to explore.

Being surrounded by lakes and state parks, it’s one of the best weekend escapes.

Strolling down Main Street on your first day is a necessity.

While soaking in the local city vibe, you can shop, dine, or walk your way through.

The establishments are almost endless; you can spend the whole weekend exploring.

After you’ve had your fill of Marble Falls’ best eats, enjoy its best drink: wine.

There are several vineyards in and around the city, and one of the best is the Fiesta Winery.

It’s also located downtown, and as a perk, you can sip and roam about while shopping.

Recommended Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Marble Falls

22. McKinney Falls State Park

5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy Austin, TX 78744 (512) 243-1643 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

McKinney Falls State Park is located at the junction of Onion and Williamson Creeks.

Spend the weekend in the great outdoors by camping at one of Austin’s best state parks.

McKinney Falls State Park is technically located within the city limits.

Because of that, it’s one of the best Austin weekend getaways—ideal if you don’t want to go far.

This 641-acre park has approximately 80 campsites, both constructed (RV) and hike-in.

Hike and cycle around the area, or swim and play in the area’s famous swimming spots.

Try birdwatching and animal observation for a more leisurely activity.

If you enjoy fishing, take advantage of the park’s 1.7-mile Onion Creek.

McKinney Falls State Park is highly recommended for laid-back Austin vacations.

Recommended Hotel: TownePlace Suites Austin South

23. New Braunfels

New Braunfels, TX (830) 221-4000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

New Braunfels is a city in Texas near San Antonio known for its rivers.

As previously stated, New Braunfels is a bustling German town full of unusual finds.

You’ll be transported to another country after just a 45-minute drive, from architecture to food to boutiques.

Consider coming for the weekend and starting at the visitor center.

Pick up pamphlets and maps, talk to guides, and learn more about the city’s events.

After that, enjoy a great German lunch at Fork and Spoon.

They provide American fare, but the Freischkaese sandwich is a must-try.

Visit the city’s two famous rivers if you’re here during the summer.

Float down the Guadalupe River or try tubing down the Comal River.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Braunfels, an IHG Hotel

24. Pedernales Falls State Park

2585 Park Rd 6026 Johnson City, TX 78636 (830) 868-7304 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Pedernales Falls is a 5,212-acre state park located on the banks of the Pedernales River.

Can’t get enough of state parks?

If you’re into this kind of getaway, Austin is surrounded by a bunch.

For example, Pedernales Falls State Park is a must-see weekend destination about an hour away.

Become one with nature as you watch the falls and river run over massive limestone slabs.

There’s also a swimming area, but getting there requires a strenuous climb.

If you’re with kids and are up for it, make sure to put safety first.

Camp overnight at one of the water and electricity-equipped sites or hike to a rustic campsite.

Don’t pass up the opportunity to go horseback riding if you’re an experienced rider.

The trail is highly rough and rugged, with some steep slopes, and it demands riding skill.

It’s not a big city or an exciting location, but it epitomizes the ideal “escape.”

Recommended Hotel: Johnson City River Retreat

25. Garner State Park

234 RR 1050 Concan, TX 78838 (830) 232-6132 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Garner State Park is an excellent choice for a swim, a hike, or a relaxing weekend.

Despite being a bit of a journey at over 3 hours, Garner State Park is worth the trip.

It provides breathtaking vistas of the Texas Hill Country, outdoor recreation, and natural wonders.

There is no need to bother about lodging if you visit on the weekend.

There are campsites, screened shelters, and cottages to choose from.

Make a reservation ahead of time because this state park is top-rated.

As soon as you arrive, begin trekking to the summit of Mt. Ol’ Baldy.

The entire trail is a steep and challenging climb, so make sure you’re prepared.

The height of 1,849 feet affords one of the best views because you can see everything in every direction.

If you get hungry, there’s a restaurant inside the park called Garner Grill.

They serve tasty, traditional burgers, and there’s also an ice cream shop that kids will enjoy.

Recommended Hotel: Seven Bluff Cabins

26. Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park, TX (432) 477-2251 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Big Bend National Park spans the Chisos mountain range and the Chihuahuan Desert.

Feel free to plan long weekend trips from Austin to explore the remote wilderness.

But first, prepare for a 7- to 8-hour trip because that’s the travel time for Big Bend National Park.

Big Bend National Park is one of the most underrated parks in the country.

Unsurprisingly, that just adds to its allure.

Get away for adventure by discovering everything it has to offer, which can take 3-4 days.

There is so much to keep you busy, from land excursions to crossing the Mexican border.

First, plan your first day around the Chisos Basin.

It has breathtaking landscapes and some of the best hikes in the area.

Spend the day trekking the park’s three trails, learning about its Mesozoic era, and ending with a sunset.

Make your second day all about a picturesque journey.

The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is a 30-mile route with several vistas and short hikes.

Enjoy each stop by car or motorcycle—the vistas are unparalleled either way.

Explore Rio Grande Village to round off your experience.

Cool off with the kids at the Historic Hot Springs, or head south to Boquillas Del Carmen.

Don’t forget to bring your passport; it’s already beyond the Mexican border.

Recommended Hotel: Terlingua Ranch Lodge

27. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5 Canyon, TX 79015 (806) 488-2227 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Palo Duro Canyon is in the Texas Panhandle, close to Amarillo and Canyon.

The 7- to 8-hour travel time is negligible for seeing the country’s second-largest canyon.

As it is only second in size to the Grand Canyon, every ardent tourist must visit at least once.

Aside from that, the park has more than enough attractions to keep you busy for days.

There are various paths and flat, beautiful hikes with stunning views.

Explore its historical sites and landmarks, go horseback riding, and enjoy camping with the family.

If you’re into mountain biking, there are numerous trails specifically for that.

Make a note to visit the Canyon Gallery for history buffs and art connoisseurs.

Explore west Texas archeological finds and the canyon’s history for an educational tour.

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

28. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Salt Flat, TX 79847 (915) 828-3251 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to Guadalupe Peak and El Capitan.

The Guadalupe Mountains are a mountain range in west Texas.

The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is 8 hours away, but don’t fret.

The peaceful surroundings you’ll have all to yourself quickly compensate for the long journey.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is one of the least frequented national parks in the country.

If you’re into a quiet weekend without too much kerfuffle, this is the place to get it.

Start with its most famous attraction: Hunter Peak.

Hike to the top for a magnificent perspective of the area.

For the more daring, choose Guadalupe Peak, the tallest peak in Texas.

If you don’t want to travel back down, you can bring a backpack and camp at the top.

There are numerous hiking trails, too, if you’re not up for mountain climbing.

Explore its magnificent, lush surroundings and stunning vistas, and don’t forget to take pictures.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn

Related: Weekend Getaways From El Paso, TX

29. Caverns of Sonora

1711 Private Rd 4468 Sonora, TX 76950 (325) 387-3105 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Caverns of Sonora are some of the world’s most beautiful show caves.

If you’re one to enjoy caves, visiting the Caverns of Sonora cannot be missed.

Under 4 hours away, this is easily one of Sonora’s most beautiful natural wonders.

But that’s not all there is to see once you get inside.

Apart from the caverns’ depths, there are more attractions on the surface.

There are ranch-inspired grounds, a gift shop, and gemstone panning.

It’s also an excellent spot to cool down because of its consistent temperature of 72 degrees.

It’s not exactly a part of Austin area weekend getaways, but it’s a terrific option.

Recommended Hotel: Motel 6-Sonora, TX

30. Caddo Lake State Park

245 Park Rd 2 Karnack, TX 75661 (903) 679-3351 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Caddo Lake State Park is a wildlife management area run by the state.

Have one of the best weekend getaways from Austin by spending a weekend at a lake.

Caddo Lake State Park, located 5 hours away, is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Texas.

The area boasts stunning scenery and offers a plethora of enjoyable activities.

One of them is geocaching, a recreational activity similar to treasure hunting.

You use coordinates to find hidden stashes, or “caches,” in the surrounding region.

That’s a little out there, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed tour, why not explore the lake?

Caddo Lake can be explored by boat, kayak, or canoe while keeping a lookout for animals.

You can also go fishing, watch the dawn or sunset, or simply relax and enjoy the ambiance.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn Marshall

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing some exceptional destinations firsthand. 

At Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, I was instantly captivated by its timeless elegance. 

The room variety was impressive, offering spacious and tastefully decorated accommodations that catered to our every need. 

The comfort and cleanliness were top-notch, ensuring a restful stay for everyone. 

Located in a serene neighborhood, it provided a tranquil escape from the city buzz. 

While the price was reflective of its luxurious offerings, it might not fit every budget. 

On the other hand, The Post Oak Hotel stood out with its remarkable room variety that left us spoiled for choice. 

The level of comfort and cleanliness was impeccable, making us feel pampered throughout our stay. 

Its location, nestled in the heart of a vibrant district, offered easy access to attractions and entertainment. 

But, affordability might be a concern for some, as it caters to a more upscale clientele. 

Lastly, Stanton House El Paso presented a unique charm with its distinct character. 

While the room variety wasn’t as extensive as the other two, it still offered comfortable and well-maintained accommodations. 

Affordability was a highlight, providing excellent value for the price. 

In terms of family-friendliness, it catered well to families with its welcoming atmosphere and amenities suitable for children.

How I Picked The Destinations 

To ensure that the chosen locations would provide an exceptional experience for travelers, I sought the guidance of locals who shared their recommendations and insider knowledge. 

By engaging with the community, I gained valuable insights into hidden gems, local attractions, and unique experiences. 

Also, I extensively researched online travel resources, including reviews, travel forums, and reputable websites, to gather comprehensive information and ensure the accuracy of my recommendations. 

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are there any outdoor recreational opportunities near austin for a weekend getaway.

Yes, there are several options for outdoor activities near Austin. You can visit the Pedernales Falls State Park, which offers hiking trails and the opportunity to swim and relax by the river. Another option is Hamilton Pool Preserve, a natural swimming hole surrounded by beautiful cliffs and hiking trails. Additionally, the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing.

Can You Recommend A Family-Friendly Weekend Getaway From Austin?

Yes. One family-friendly weekend getaway option is Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels, known for its thrilling water rides and attractions. Another option is the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, where you can drive through a safari park and observe a variety of animals up close. Additionally, the Austin Zoo and Zilker Park, with their playgrounds and Barton Springs Pool, are great choices for family fun.

What Are Some Coastal Weekend Getaways Near Austin?

The city of Corpus Christi is approximately a 3-hour drive from Austin and offers beautiful beaches, water sports activities, and attractions like the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington Museum. Another option is Port Aransas, a charming beach town known for its sandy shores, fishing opportunities, and laid-back atmosphere. 

Conclusion 

After exploring the best weekend getaways from Austin, my top choice is unquestionably Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas. 

This stunning property combines timeless elegance with luxurious amenities, creating an unforgettable experience for couples, families, and solo adventurers alike. 

The tranquil location and impeccable service provide a haven of relaxation away from the bustling city. 

While The Post Oak Hotel in Houston offers remarkable room variety and family-friendly amenities, and Stanton House El Paso provides a unique charm and affordability, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek excels in its historic ambiance, exquisite dining, and impeccable service. 

Prepare for an enchanting escape at this gem.

It’s the perfect destination for your next weekend getaway from Austin.

• Mar 25, 2023

23 Best Weekend Getaways from Austin (within a 4-hour flight)

Updated: Jan 20

Austin is the capital of Texas and is a very fun city! If you live there, I don't need to tell you that. There's no shortage of nightlife, comedy clubs, restaurants, and outdoor activities. If you're looking for a change of scenery or somewhere to venture off to for a weekend, you found the right post.

With a vast array of short domestic destinations, there are also some international destinations within reach. Here are some weekend getaway ideas for locals in the Austin area within a non-stop 4-hour flight. More importantly, these trips are all possible without having to request PTO (for you M-F 9-5'ers), it just depends on what you want to do at your destination.

Miami, Florida (MIA, FLL) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Beaches, outdoors activities, clubs, restaurants, culture. I just ask that you please please please venture out beyond Miami Beach.

When to go?

Any time of the year, but best is October - February for perfect weather. Avoid the spring break crowd in late Feb/early March the best you can.

Who can fly you there?

AA from AUS - See flight deals

Spirit Airways from AUS - See flight deals

Southwest from AUS - See flight deals

How much will it cost to get there?

Airfare: $50+

Where can you stay?

See hotels in Miami

See hotels in Miami Beach

Visit the following neighborhoods to step away from the "typical Miami": Wynwood, Brickell, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Midtown, Edgewater.

Orlando, Florida (MCO) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Theme parks. Disney & Universal. Bring bug spray and an umbrella if you go during the summer.

See hotels in Orlando

New York, New York (JFK, LGA, EWR, ISP, HPN) - 3.5 Hour Flight

It might not be the same city it was before, but it'll always make for a great weekend getaway.

Summer for the best weather, but peak rates for solid hotels.

Winter for Christmas festivities!

Delta from AUS - See flight deals

United from AUS - See flight deals

JetBlue from AUS - See flight deals

Airfare: $100+

See hotels in New York

Toronto, Ontario (YYZ, YTZ) - 3 Hour Flight

Food, people, cleanliness, Hockey Hall of Fame.

Air Canada from AUS - See flight deals

Airfare: $400+

See hotels in Toronto

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PHL) - Just over a 3 Hour Flight

History, sports, cheesesteaks

Summer and Fall

See hotels in Philadelphia

Washington, DC (IAD, DCA, BWI) - 3 Hour Flight

Museums, walking tours, great mass-transit and cherry blossoms. Fly to DCA for convenience.

Year-round (spring season for cherry blossoms)

Allegiant from AUS - See flight deals

Airfare: $250+

See hotels in Washington DC

For avid runners, pack your running shoes and go for daily runs around the White House, Washington Monument, Lincoln and Jefferson memorials.

Chicago, Illinois (ORD, MDW) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Food, bars, sports, rivers!

Airfare: $200+

See hotels in Chicago

For bourbon enthusiasts, visit Untitled Supper Club on W Kinzie for an incredible speakeasy experience.

Kansas City, Missouri (MCI) - 2 Hour Flight

BBQ! BBQ! BBQ!

Airfare: $150+

See hotels in Kansas City

Visit the Power & Light District for a unique nightlife experience & go to Arthur Bryant's for BBQ.

Nashville, Tennessee (BNA) - 2 Hour Flight

Music (not just country), endless bars, brewpubs, hot chicken.

Spring, Summer and Fall

See hotels in Nashville

Stay in the Gulch or near printer's alley.

New Orleans, Louisiana (MSY) - 1.5 Hour Flight

Jazz music, other music, culture, architecture, partying, passionate football fans.

Spring, Summer, Fall

See hotels in New Orleans

Check out Bourbon Street for a little bit, but don't get sucked in. It's absolutely disgusting. Chartres Street is better for those looking to maintain their cleanliness.

Atlanta, Georgia (ATL) - Just Over a 2 Hour Flight

Brew pubs, art, nightlife, Mexican food.

See hotels in Atlanta

Walk some of the BeltLine and stop at stores, bars, and restaurants.

Raleigh, North Carolina (RDU) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Outdoors activities, restaurants, college sports, booming tech sector.

Airfare: $175+

See hotels in Raleigh

Lake Tahoe, CA & NV (RNO) - 3.5 Hour Flight

Gorgeous Lake Tahoe! Skiing, water sports, gambling, great scenery, interesting people. Reno is the closest airport, about 45 minutes away.

Airfare: $275+

See hotels in Lake Tahoe

San Diego, California (SAN) - 3 Hour Flight

Surfing, Hiking, Zoo, Mountain Biking, Partying.

Alaska from AUS - See flight deals

See hotels in San Diego

Los Angeles, California (LAX, BUR, SNA, LGB, SBA, ONT) - 3.5 Hour Flight

Surfing, Hiking, Sports, City Life, Culture, Fame, Disneyland, Food.

Spirit Airlines from AUS - See flight deals

Airfare: $75+

See hotels in Los Angeles

Portland, Oregon (PDX) - 4.5 Hour Flight

Surfing. Oregon coast is only 1 hour away. Mt. Hood is nearby as well.

See hotels in Portland

Los Cabos, Mexico (SJD) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Beaches, fun, great vacations.

See hotels in Los Cabos

Cancun, Mexico (CUN) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Your money goes a long way: all-inclusive hotels, nightlife, and activities.

December to April for the best weather.

Avoid March Spring Break travel if you want to be at peace.

See hotels in Cancun

Boston, Massachusetts (BOS) - Just Under a 4 Hour Flight

History and cool summertime temps!

Intercontinental Boston

See hotels in Boston

San Francisco, California (SFO, SJC, OAK) - 4 Hour Flight

Tours, Food, Silicon Valley, Golden Gate Bridge, Surfing

See hotels in San Francisco

Las Vegas, Nevada (LAS) - 3 Hour Flight

Gambling, Hoover Dam, Death Valley National Park, Valley of Fire State Park, Partying, more Gambling.

Frontier from AUS - See flight deals

Spirit from AUS - See flight deals

See hotels in Las Vegas

Denver, Colorado (DEN) - 2.5 Hour Flight

Mountains, beer, National Parks, hiking, clean city, nice people.

Year-round. Ski in the winter. Hike in the summer.

See hotels in Denver

Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC) - 3 Hour Flight

Skiing, Salt Flats, Mormons, and great National Parks within a moderate drive.

See hotels in Salt Lake City

• Best Weekend Getaways
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• Weekend Getaways

10 Perfect Road Trips When You Need to Escape Austin

Easy getaways under the texas sun..

The cool season is finally here—a time when the weather in Texas really allows us to enjoy the great outdoors. It’s time to hike without passing out, barbecue when you don’t mind going up to the grill , and stroll around farmer’s markets on foot without looking like you stepped straight out of a sauna. In other words, this is the sweet spot in Texas (unless you’re a victim of our infamous Cedar Fever). And knowing that many of us save our miles to escape the state in summer, it’s only fitting that we bring you the best vacay options within a 100-mile radius. From Waco’s newest family attraction to the Hill Country’s boozy estates, here’s how to have a blast on your early 2023 getaway from Austin.

Distance from Austin: 37 miles southwest; 45-minute drive Now through spring is camping and glamping season. And because we’re partial to a little social media, Wimberley is #glampinggoals for many an Austinite. There are the Collective Hill Country retreats, where you can stay in a luxurious safari-style tent perched on a 225-acre Montesino Ranch by the Blanco River (note: these are on the pricier end of the glamping spectrum). Or how about a tiny house? Getaway House offers cabins that switch you off from digital devices and encourage ample time in nature— and it’s dog friendly. Prices start at a fair $129 a night. Glamping aside, Wimberley is also famous for Jacob’s Well , which though might be a little chilly to swim in, always mesmerizes in color—or make use of that Stetson and go explore with Horseback Adventures of Central Texas . Yee haw!

New Braunfels

Distance from Austin: 48 miles southwest; 50-minute drive With Hill Country charm, historic German roots, and natural beauty, New Braunfels is a solid pick for a day trip or weekend away from Austin. The end of spring and summer months are most popular for tubing, and year-round you’ll want to head downtown for kolaches, pretzels, and strudels at Naegelin’s Bakery , the oldest bakery in Texas, before browsing 16,000 square feet of books, records, furniture, glassware, and jewelry at the Downtown Antique Mall . After that, you can practice your “prost!” at Krause’s Cafe , which in addition to traditional German eats, has an enormous Biergarten lined with communal tables and over 60 Texan and German beers on tap. On the edge of town, swing by Gruene (pronounced “green”), where live music at the historic Gruene Hall is scheduled every day.

Distance from Austin: 72 miles west; 1.5 hours drive Named after German nobleman Jakob Luckenbach, who helped settle the Texas Hill Country, Luckenbach is commonly known as a ghost town due to its deep western roots and tiny population that hovers around a dozen residents. But don’t be fooled by size—the town has attracted and swooned big-name country stars who’ve traveled all the way to perform, from Willie Nelson to Waylon Jennings, the latter of whom coined the motto “Everybody’s Somebody in Luckenbach.” Today the quaint little town remains a busy weekend draw. There are just two working buildings; a dance hall, where live music and events are scheduled each day, and a saloon meets general store that’s more of a souvenir shop, where you can purchase a t-shirt emblazoned with Jenning’s famed slogan. When you’re done, Fredericksburg is just a 15-minute drive away.

Distance from Austin: 31 miles south; 48 minutes drive Need a spring wardrobe? Then, San Marcos is calling your name. Head to Tanger Outlets and San Marcos Premium Outlets for bargains on brands from Kate Spade to Nike and Disney, or if you have more cash to blow check out the neighboring complexes which carry discounted designers like Valentino and YSL. Shopping aside, there’s a bunch of other things to do. The San Marcos River is good for tubing, paddle boarding, or a swim, but if you’d rather explore the river without getting wet, take a $10 glass boat tour from the Spring Lake Natural Area . Downtown is surprisingly bustling after dark when the nighttime revelers come out to play. Young sixth-streeters love Shade Rooftop Patio Bar , while queer folx and their pals party with delicious drag and karaoke at the Stonewall Warehouse .

Distance from Austin: 33 miles southeast; 45-minute drive Bastrop is growing in popularity among Austinites, thanks to its easy access and slew of things to do that satisfy the whole family. For culture vultures, it's all about downtown. Main Street is lined with funky local stores and galleries like The Painted Porch and Monarch Art Gallery , which you could easily spend hours browsing. Stop at 602 Brewing for craft beer on tap with lunch, and then venture inside a 1930s fire and police station to check out the Bastrop County Museum , a local institution dedicated to the town’s beginnings as a German colony. For the outdoorsy set, Bastrop State Park is where to go to marvel at the towering Lost Pines—hike through them or zip over them , depending on your state of mind. Kids will get a kick out of Dinosaur Park , where exhibits feature life-size dinosaur replicas in a natural outdoor setting. Then kick things up a notch by peeping some modern-day monsters at the Texas Reptile Zoo , where you’ll get up close and personal with 200 species and maybe even catch a feeding.

Distance from Austin: 102 miles north; 1.75-hour drive If you’re a regular Austin to Dallas commuter, then you know Waco as the halfway point along the drive or bus route. However, the town itself is worth a weekend jaunt especially now that Camp Fimfo has opened. The Bosque River resort offers camping, RV’ing, and cabins with all kinds of family fun including a water playground, mini-golf course, basketball, pickleball, tennis, zip lines, and there are swim-up bars and hot tubs for the adults. Meanwhile, soda lovers should stop by the Dr Pepper Museum , the site where the world famous coke got its start. It spans three floors of fascinating exhibits plus soda fountains and a gift shop. Next, take your road sodas five minutes up the road to Cameron Park , one of the largest municipal parks in Texas, and crack them open by the Brazos River or under the towering trees. The Cameron Park Zoo is cute for the kiddos, but adults might prefer getting to know the mammoths who once roamed the area instead at the Waco Mammoth National Monument . The paleontological site was added to the NPS by President Obama in 2015, protecting and promoting the fossilized Ice Age remains. Finally, grab your souvenirs at Magnolia Market downtown before skedaddling back to the big city.

Dripping Springs

Distance from Austin: 24 miles west; 40-minute drive Just a short drive outside of Austin, Dripping Springs is a boozy oasis home to some of the state’s top breweries and distilleries. (Pro tip: Assign a DD or hire a car.) Start at Jester King Brewery , take the tour or simply sample your way through its award-winning farmhouse ales under the shade of ancient live oak trees. Just down the road, you’ll find gin and liqueur producers Revolution Spirits , dog-friendly booze emporium Treaty Oak Distillery , and Beerburg Brewing , a beer hall stocked with farm-to-table food. If you want a one-stop-shop destination, Dripping Springs Distilling is tough to beat. The first licensed distillery in all of Texas Hill Country, it produces artisanal vodka, gin, and bourbon in small batches using limestone-filtered spring water native to the region. Continue the party at Dreamland , where a taproom awaits, plus family-friendly activities like mini-golf, pickleball, live music, and more.

San Antonio

Distance from Austin: 80 miles southwest; 1.25-hour drive San Antonio has always been buzzing, but over the last decade the city has undergone a seriously stylish glow-up. Spend a weekend exploring its offerings with a stay at one of the riverwalk hotels. Check out two awesome exhibits starting with the San Antonio Museum of Art and followed by the funky immersive experience at Hopscotch . Then head to Pearl , a massive mixed-use space built using the historic bones of the former Pearl Brewery, for shopping, eating, or just hanging out and enjoying one of the spot’s green spaces. Standout stops include Best Quality Daughter for char-siu served family-style, Cured for a wide selection of juicy meat, and The Bottling Department food hall’s Caribbean specialist Mi Roti . Need a lie-down? Book a pamper session at La Cantera Resort and Spa .

Distance from Austin: 33 miles south; 35-minute drive Meat-lovers, behold Lockhart—a.k.a. The Barbecue Capital of Texas—and consider making a pilgrimage to the town’s many formidable ‘cue destinations. Kreuz Market is enormous and stuck in time in the best way (just don’t dare ask for a fork or sauce for your ribs). Pop over to Black’s Barbecue , established back in 1932, for tender brisket, then swing by Smitty’s Market for juicy, coarse-ground sausage with just the right snap. Immerse yourself in Lockhart’s boot-scootin’ history with a visit to the Caldwell County Jail Museum (open weekends 1 pm - 5 pm), or admire the architecture of the historic Dr. Eugene Clark Library . Last but not least, Lockhart’s walkable main square offers some great food and drink options, from unfussy, comforts at Commerce Cafe and beers from historic saloon The Pearl to Little Trouble , a hip speakeasy-style spot serving cocktails and a Texas-centric menu laced with Mexican and German influences.

Fredericksburg

Distance from Austin: 80 miles west; 1.5-hour drive The charming village has something for everyone: German culture, natural attractions, and a ton of locally produced wine. In fact, there are more than 50 wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms scattered throughout the region. Kick things off at Ab Astris , a family-owned boutique winery that cranks out exceptional vintages using Texas-grown fruit. Meanwhile, Ranch Road 1 offers bike tours of the region for those itching to sweat it out between sips. Back downtown, hit up Main Street, a haven spanning 150 shops, art galleries, and boutiques, plus a vibrant and varied restaurant scene including culinary wonders like West End Pizza Company , Chase’s Place Cocktails & Kitchen , Otto’s German Bistro , and Granite House Lounge . On your way out of town, stop off for a hike up to the soaring summit of Enchanted Rock . The massive, otherworldly pink granite dome is said to be haunted by the spirits of Native Americans, who considered the site supernatural. Or you could also get your steps in the Vereins Kirche Museum at Marktplatz, a local landmark spotlighting the town’s rich history.

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15 Best Weekend Getaways from Austin Texas

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: May 13, 2024

While Austin itself is a vibrant and exciting city with so much to offer, sometimes you just need to break free and embrace a change of scenery. Luckily, there are tons of diverse destinations surrounding this Central Texas hub to discover.

There are unique experiences to be had, scrumptious foods to be savored, and treasurable connections to be built when you get out of your comfort zone.

All of these Texas destinations offer amazing weekend getaway options from romantic getaways to adventurous parks, to family-friendly beaches where you can recharge and embark on a weekend to remember.

Here is my list of the best weekend getaways from Austin .

Weekend Getaways from Austin

1.    san antonio.

Perhaps the best way to get acquainted with this city is by taking a stroll down part of the famous 15-mile San Antonio Riverwalk .

Here, you can dine al fresco, shop, and leisurely take in the ambiance of San Antonio. Read our full list of things to do in San Antonio .

History buffs can beef up their fact armory with a visit to the historic 18th-century Spanish mission, the Alamo . Walk on the very grounds where Texas gained its independence from Mexico at the site that now operates as a museum.

Be sure to ask one of the docents about the history of the Alamo, and you’ll be rewarded with a five- to ten-minute entertaining and enlightening history lesson.

You can also visit four more historic missions in San Antonio, all part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park , the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas.

LEARN MORE: 21 Best Day Trips from San Antonio

2.    New Braunfels

New Braunfels has been bringing in an increasing number of visitors in recent years, becoming well known for tubing down the Guadalupe River and Comal River in the summer.

Stroll around Gruene Historic District and shop the boutiques for Texas souvenirs; dine at the Gristmill or Gruene River Grill , then take in some local music at the Gruene Grove or at the historic Gruene Hall , the oldest dance hall in Texas.

But if you’re looking for the wurst thing to do in New Braunfels, schedule your trip in November to combine Bavarian and Texan culture at their annual Wurstfest !

Read more things to do in New Braunfels .

3.    Marfa

Prepare to take things down a notch in Marfa, as you’ll find the locals have a more laid-back approach to life.

Weekends in Marfa are the best because there are more shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars open than at the start of the week.

Take your time discovering local artists as you pore over different galleries in this small-town art hub.

What really attracts people here, however, is the mysterious phenomena of the unexplainable lights sometimes found in the sky.

What is the source of the Marfa Lights ? No one really knows…the mystery continues.

There’s no predicting when the colorful orbs will appear, but if you’re lucky, you may leave with quite an unforgettable memory of this town.

For a fun outing take a short drive out to Prada Marfa – the art installation is a popular photo spot.

READ MORE: 15 Best Small Towns in TEXAS

4.    Big Bend National Park

With over 150 miles of hiking trails to be explored, Big Bend is a must-see for those looking to get out and explore nature on their sporadic weekend getaways from Austin. Make this one a long-weekend!

Here you’ll find a wide variation of vistas, geology, flora, and fauna due to the ranging elevation levels found within the park.

Learn about the best hiking in Big Bend and put a few desert, river, or mountain hikes on the agenda.

From uneven dirt roads to paved paths, there are plenty of driving routes where you can soak in stunning vistas from the comfort of your car as well.

5.    Port Aransas

If you’re looking to take a dip in the sandy Gulf of Mexico waters or want to reel in your own catch of the day, Port Aransas is calling your name.

Home to miles and miles of shoreline, this city is a hot spot for fishing, dolphin and bird watching, kayaking, and of course lounging in the sun.

Bask in a beach chair or marvel at the impressive sandcastles during SandFest .

Everyone will be happy with this beachy weekend getaway!

6.    Fredericksburg

Although the original settlers first arrived back in 1846, the remnants of the German heritage can still be seen, felt, and tasted in Fredericksburg through the historic architecture and tasty cuisine.

Learn about the town’s unique history at the local museums, or if you’d like to engage in a more modern activity, head to one of the local wineries to indulge in a wine tasting.

For outdoor adventure head, to Enchanted Rock and hike up the giant pink granite dome.

No matter what you get up to here, you’re sure to fall for this charming city.

7.    Rockport

Rockport is another Texas coastal town that usually draws people in with its amazing climate, manicured beaches, and outdoor activities.

Spend your days here soaking up the sun at the beach, joining other bird watchers who flock to the area to see the rare whooping cranes, or hitting the trails on foot or by bike to explore the beautiful surrounding nature.

Lastly, spend a few hours in the Cultural Arts District admiring the art as you walk through the colorful, inviting streets.

Find more things to do in Rockport this weekend with our list of 21 fun things to do .

Rockport Beach is one of the cleanest beaches in Texas

8.    Galveston

The beaches in Galveston are a must-see, and if you’re taking a family trip, Stewart Beach is one of the most popular.

Here you can build sandcastles, go for a swim, or play volleyball.

The beach is located near Pleasure Pier , where you’ll find tons of rides, games, and restaurants for a jam-packed day of fun.

There are lots of historic places to visit in Galveston , like the Opera House , Moody Mansion , the Strand Historic District , and museums.

Galveston is a perfect weekend getaway from Austin.

9.    Corpus Christi

Whether you come for the beaches , museums, shopping, or seafood, there’s something in Corpus Christi for everyone.

The city is famous in part for its tribute to the late Tejano singer, Selena Quintanilla Perez.

Visitors can celebrate the life of the musician at the Selena Museum and at memorials throughout the city.

End your day with an impressive sunset by heading to Bob Hall Pier and enjoying the sounds of the waves crashing as the sky’s colors change and settle into the night.

10.    Houston

There’s no shortage of things to do in Houston.

But for an out-of-this-world experience, head over to the popular Space Center Houston and learn all about space travel and previous missions.

Or if sports speak to you more than space, you can catch almost all the major sports here: baseball, basketball, football, and soccer.

The city is filled with fine arts, incredible music venues, and intriguing museums.

Whether you come for the history, sports, arts, or even the Tex-Mex, you’ll leave Houston a happy camper.

11.    Fort Worth

Well-known as a former home to cowboys, outlaws, and cattle trading, the Old West lifestyle can still be felt in Fort Worth today.

Take a step back in time with a visit to the Stockyards National Historic District to see the cattle drive.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Sundance Square for outdoor dining, art galleries, live music, and shopping.

For a more soothing experience, head to the botanical gardens or Trinity Park and embrace the beauty and tranquility.

12.    South Padre Island

South Padre Island is a place where wildlife photographers, sun worshippers, windsurfers, and birdwatchers can all come together.

This barrier island brings in people from all walks of life to enjoy its sunny climate and beautiful, calm waters.

When you’ve had enough beach time, the docks will be calling your name with one of their many charters offered here, such as a pleasant dinner cruise, fishing trip, or dolphin-watching tour.

If your vacation needs a bit more of a thrill, head to Gravity Park for some mini golf, rock climbing, and even roller coasters.

13.    Wimberley

Everything about this small town is picturesque, from the surrounding nature to the massive market to the delectable food. You might notice a few giant cowboy boot sculptures around Wimberley—there’s over 50 of them now!

Summer is one of the best times to visit, as you may be lucky enough to see the lavender fields in full bloom.

In the scorching heat, you’ll also have the option to cool off in some pretty stunning places like the Blue Hole Regional Park or Jacob’s Well .

Before leaving this charming town, stop by Wimberley Glassworks to pick up some one-of-a-kind glass pieces as a reminder of your amazing time here.

14.    Brenham

Another city in Texas known for its German heritage , wine, and historic district, this weekend destination will not disappoint.

It is a quintessential small town, with colorful boutique shops in the center and no shortage of mouthwatering BBQ joints.

The city is well known for being home to Blue Bell ice cream, so be sure to stop by the parlor for a fresh scoop.

During springtime, when the Texas bluebonnets bloom, Brenham is a hotspot for these colorful wildflowers.

15.    Inks Lake State Park

Outdoorsy travelers, this gem is for you.

Inks Lake is a beautiful spot for hiking, biking, and camping. The park offers 9 miles of trails through beautiful terrain for you to explore.

There are places to enjoy a range of water sports, and fishing is allowed in designated areas.

Join a ranger-led trip to learn more about the park and truly embrace the experience. It’s the perfect place to kick back, relax, and simply enjoy nature.

As you can see, there are so many wonderful choices for a weekend trip from Austin. With so many different things to do, it’s hard to choose one for your next weekend escape. Not to worry, you can use this list of the best weekend trips from Austin to plan more than just one trip.

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Monday 26th of June 2023

Marfa and Big Bend are NOT weekend trips - they're 9+ hours away from Austin.

SoloTripsAndTips

Bruce, Thanks for your comment. Which route are you driving from Austin to Marfa/Big Bend? It's about 7 hours for me for either ATX to Big Bend or ATX to Marfa, with 1 pit stop for gas/bathroom break. But I get your point, it is a long weekend getaway. Leave Austin on Friday and come back on Monday, feeling a whole new vibe after a weekend in West Texas. The Texas high desert is absolutely amazing! Cheers, Susan

Best Road Trips From Austin

Top road trip destinations from austin.

Austin to South Padre Island

🚗 430 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 30 minutes

Set off on an amazing Gulf Coast adventure from Austin to South Padre Island. Enjoy stunning beaches, buzzing nightlife, and rich history along the Texas Gulf Coast.

Leaving Austin pass through New Braunfels before stopping at the historic city of San Antonio , where you can visit the famous Alamo .

Austin to Big Bend National Park

🚗 475 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 30 minutes

Journey from Austin to Big Bend National Park, and the vast, rugged landscapes of Texas await you, ideal for hiking, star gazing, and exploring the Rio Grande.

If you plan on driving to Big Bend on a day the last town before the park is Marathon , so grab any snacks and gas as you pass by.

Austin to Angelina National Forest

🚗 240 miles ⏱️ 4 hours

Drive from Austin through the scenic landscapes of East Texas to explore Angelina National Forest, offering lush greenery, plenty of wildlife, and tranquil lakes. Angelina National Forest is a fresh breah of air and a welcome break from the city life.

As you make your way stop off at impressive Davy Crockett National Forest about 200 miles west. Make sure to head for the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area during your visit.

Austin to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

🚗 100 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 50 minutes

Escape Austin for a day trip to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to hike and climb the ancient pink granite dome and enjoy panoramic views of the Texas Hill Country. It really does deserve it's own entry on the list!

As you make your way on this short but exciting journey, why not visit Fredericksburg , a short drive away. A charming town known for its historic main street, German heritage and excellent wineries.

Austin to New Orleans

🚗 510 miles ⏱️ 8 hours

Travel from Austin to New Orleans to experience the unique culture, historic architecture, and electrifying Big Easy, along with its world-famous cuisine and music.

As you make this journey we recommend stopping off at highlights including Houston, and scenic sites of Baytown Nature Center , and Sabine National Wildlife Refuge , before reaching Lafayette .

Austin to El Paso

🚗 820 miles ⏱️ 13 hours, 50 minutes

Embark on a long drive from Austin to El Paso exploring the heritage of West Texas, from the Hill Country to the desert vistas.

As you head south it'll take you straight to the historic heart of San Antonio , before arriving at must-visit Big Bend National Park . Afterwards visit quirky Marfa , with interesting art installations for all all out different vibe.

Austin to Marfa, Texas

🚗 480 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 35 minutes

Marfa is most defintely a destination in itself, and this historic route from Austin to Marfa is the ideal way to transport you to this unique West Texas town known for its minimalist art installations and mysterious lights.

A history fan? Then make sure to stop at Fredericksburg , where you can enjoy plenty of interest stops such as National Museum of the Pacific War and Pioneer Museum .

Austin to Waco

🚗 290 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 40 minutes

Journey from Austin to Waco and attractions like the Magnolia Market, Baylor University, and the Dr Pepper Museum await you! Plenty of pretty landscapes and family-friendly attractions to keep you entertained for sure.

Taking this lake detour, you can experience amazing sites like Buchanan Dam , and Lake Buchanan , one of the largest lakes in Texas. As well as Gorman Falls , in Colorado Bend State Park , and Lake Whitney .

Austin to Mustang Island State Park

🚗 240 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 30 minutes

Escape Austin to Mustang Island State Park for a beach adventure, where you can enjoy swimming, fishing, bird watching, and relaxing on the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches.

Stop off in Corpus Christi , heading then towards the sea where you'll get to Mustang Island a few minutes later.

Austin to Oklahoma City

🚗 410 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 30 minutes

Travel from Austin through Dallas to Oklahoma City, exploring different cityscapes and attractions like the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum and the lively Bricktown entertainment district.

Along the way visit Waco and then Dallas . After exploring all the sights and stops in the Dallas area, consider a short detour to Fort Worth .

Austin to Santa Fe

🚗 825 miles ⏱️ 13 hours

Embark on a scenic drive from Austin to Santa Fe, experiencing the rich history and art scene of New Mexico's capital, with stops for stunning Southwestern landscapes.

This memorable journey will take you on a course past Horseshoe Bay and San Angelo in Texas, and Roswell and Fort Sumner in New Mexico, before finally taking you up to Santa Fe.

Austin to Orlando

🚗 1,200 miles ⏱️ 19 hours, 15 minutes

Travel from Austin to Orlando via the scenic Gulf of Mexico route, enjoying diverse landscapes and cities along the way to the heart of Florida's entertainment and theme park capital.

This trip is great if you are looking for a bit of beach action. Driving alongside the stunning Florida Coast, you'll head to Panama City Beach , Miramar Beach and Laguna Beach along the way.

Austin to Carlsbad Caverns

Set off from Austin on a spectacular adventure to Carlsbad Caverns, to explore some of America's most stunning underground landscapes. Carlsbad Caverns are one of the best cave systems in the country and you can roam through the lit-up rocks.

On route make sure to stop at Guadalupe Mountains National Park . This epic park is easy to get to, and is best explored on foot and to make the most of the trails.

Austin to College Station

🚗 100 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 45 minutes

Drive from Austin to College Station, home to Texas A&M University. The city is home to the well known Texas A&M University and over 1 in 2 residents are students or staff at the university which gives the town its unique vibe.

Take a short trip from College Station and visit the historic downtown Bryan for a bite to eat.

Austin to Houston

🚗 165 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 45 minutes

Travel from Austin to Houston and you can expect some small-town feel sights and sounds as you head towards the artistic scenes of Texas' largest city.

Make sure to stop off at charming towns including Del Valle, Wyldwood , and Ellinger . This route also takes you to Columbus which is certainly worth exploring if you have the time.

Austin to Dallas

🚗 200 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 10 minutes

Explore the dynamic city of Dallas on a direct route from Austin, offering a deep dive into Texas history, modern attractions, and a bustling arts scene.

Scenic Texas Hill Country greets you during this road trip, with rolling landscapes. A major stop en route is Waco , and we'd recommend a visit to Waco Mammoth National Monument , where ancient mammoth fossils have been preserved.

Austin to Galveston

🚗 215 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 30 minutes

Head from Austin to Galveston for a coastal retreat where you can enjoy sandy beaches, historic sites, and a relaxing island atmosphere on the Gulf of Mexico.

As you head through Houston along this journey, it's a great stop to recharge and get any essentials ahead of arriving for some R&R.

Austin to Fort Worth

🚗 190 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 20 minutes

Drive from Austin to Fort Worth and you can enjoy authentic Texas cowboy culture, with visits to the historic Stockyards and world-class museums.

Add the small town of Grapevine in-between to your itinerary, boasting a real small town feel about it and great wineries nearby.

Austin to Denver

🚗 950 miles ⏱️ 14 hours

The journey from Austin to Denver is a super, taking in scenic landscapes and epic cities, ahead of reaching Mile High City, known for its outdoor lifestyle, craft breweries, and popular arts scene.

There is plenty to admire along this route, so stop off at key spots including Fort Worth , Amarillo , and Colorado Springs , as well as Lake Wichita , and interesting Cadillac Ranch .

Austin to Destin, Florida

🚗 850 miles ⏱️ 15 hours

Take the scenic and historic Natchez Trace Parkway from Austin to Destin to explore the stunning white-sand beaches and emerald waters of Florida's Emerald Coast.

This detour will take you through Natchez as well as Jackson and has been celebrated for the stunning scenic landscapes it offers on the way to and through these cities.

Austin to Las Vegas

🚗 1,300 miles ⏱️ 19 hours, 45 minutes

Take this memorable trip from Austin to Las Vegas, and be prepared to experience vast deserts and wide open views, culminating in the entertainment and excitement of Las Vegas. Not to be missed!

Head south and along the way you can catch something extra, visiting beautiful Big Bend National Park , or short detours to Apache National Forest and Coronado National Forest , and stunning Joshua Tree National Park .

Austin to Fort Davis

🚗 430 miles ⏱️ 7 hours

Head from Austin to the historic Fort Davis, where you can explore Fort Davis National Historic Site, an important outpost during the U.S. Civil War and through to the 1880s. A must-visit for history fans.

If you have time on your hands, then make sure to extend your road trip and keep on driving south the Big Bend National Park .

Austin to Caddo Lake

🚗 380 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 40 minutes

Journey from Austin to the mystical Caddo Lake, where cypress swamps offer a unique paddling experience and a chance to enjoy the lush East Texas wildlife.

Caddo Lake sits right on the border between Texas and Louisiana near the towns of Marshall and Jefferson , which are great places to visit and stay while you're in the area.

Austin to San Antonio

🚗 210 miles ⏱️ 4 hours

Explore the scenic route from Austin to San Antonio, delving into rich Texas history and vibrant cultural experiences, from the Alamo to the River Walk.

En route, a quick stop at Blanco is a peaceful start to your journey, with popular sites including Blanco State Park to visit. Fancy a tipple? Make sure to also stop off at Fredericksburg , famous for its local wineries.

Austin to Brenham

🚗 90 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 30 minutes

Travel from Austin to Brenham, a charming Texas town known for its historic downtown, antique fairs, and home to Blue Bell Creameries ice cream.

About 20 minutes out of Brenham is the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site . Known as the Birthplace of Texas, there's a visitor center, living history farm and a historic Pecan tree.

Austin to Georgetown

🚗 30 miles ⏱️ 35 minutes

Enjoy a short drive from Austin to Georgetown, home to the "Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas" and a close community with a strong historic preservation focus.

Make a stop at Round Rock during this short trip, where you can enjoy a visit to legendary Round Rock Donuts.

Austin to Fredericksburg

🚗 82 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 50 minutes

Set off from Austin to Fredericksburg, a town brimming with German heritage, and right in the heart of the Wine Country, perfect for exploring wineries, local shops, and historical sites.

En route you pass popular stop offs including Dripping Springs and Johnson City , that are both worth a visit if you have time.

Austin to Texas Hill Country

🚗 130 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 30 minutes

Discover the Texas Hill Country from Austin, with picture-perfect rolling hills, vineyards, and an escape into nature. It's a prime destination for relaxation and wine tasting.

Fredericksburg , we just recommended, is right in the heart of the Wine Country and is well worth stopping either as a base for exploring the surroundings or a day or two seeing the city itself.

Austin to Wimberley

🚗 40 miles ⏱️ 45 minutes

Escape to Wimberley from Austin for a tranquil retreat in this picturesque Texas Hill Country town. Wimberley boasts a relaxed atmosphere and a slightly retro vibe full of artisan shops and quirky places to stop for lunch.

Sitting right on the edge of Texas Hill Country , you should combine a stop in Wimberley with exploring more of this area known for its unique combination of wine and cowboys.

Austin to Jefferson

🚗 350 miles ⏱️ 5 hours

Travel from Austin to Jefferson, a town steeped in history with well-preserved antebellum homes, charming bed and breakfasts, and Civil War history.

Make sure to check out more of Marshall on the way, where locals have declared it the Cultural Capital of East Texas. Visit the Harrison County Historical Museum that occupies the big County Court building right in the middle of downtown.

Austin to Port Isabel

🚗 370 miles ⏱️ 6 hours

Head from Austin to Port Isabel, the gateway to South Padre Island, offering visitors a mix of historic sites, sea life encounters, and gateway to the beautiful beaches of South Padre Island. A visit to the Port Isabel lighthouse is ideal for great views in every direction.

As you make your way to the coast, you'll head close by Corpus Christi , an ideal pitstop for a museum visit or to enjoy the sandy Gulf shores.

Austin to Amarillo

🚗 600 miles ⏱️ 9 hours, 40 minutes

Take the scenic route from Austin to Amarillo and you get the chance to explore the rugged beauty of the Texas Panhandle, and before you even reach Amarillo you are in for a treat.

If you have time then there are some great places en route, including Fredericksburg , nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, and lesser known San Angelo . Here, you can visit the Fort Concho National Historic Landmark.

Longer road trips from Austin

Austin to Los Angeles

🚗 1,400 miles ⏱️ 21 hours, 30 minutes

Discover the epic cities, lush landscapes, and memorable landmarks of the American Southwest as head towards Los Angeles.

Austin to Phoenix

🚗 1,310 miles ⏱️ 21 hours, 30 minutes

Experience the dramatic desert landscapes of the Southwest on your journey from Austin to Phoenix via El Paso.

Austin to Zion National Park

🚗 1,340 miles ⏱️ 22 hours

Set off from Austin through Arizona to explore the spectacular hiking trails of Zion National Park, a true jewel of the American Southwest.

Austin to San Diego

🚗 1,460 miles ⏱️ 23 hours

Take on this trip from Austin to San Diego for a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches, in this vibrant Southern California city.

Austin to Miami

🚗 1,560 miles ⏱️ 24 hours

Explore from Austin to Miami, via Jacksonville, and you can expect sunny beaches, and plenty of nightlife at Florida's iconic coastal city.

Austin to Washington DC

🚗 1,650 miles ⏱️ 27 hours

Head north as you drive from Austin to Washington DC, before reaching the historic landmarks and cultural scenes of the nation's capital.

Austin to Grand Canyon

🚗 1,950 miles ⏱️ 30 hours

From Austin, passing through Albuquerque, head to the majestic Grand Canyon to enjoy the world's most jaw-dropping natural wonders.

Austin to San Francisco

🚗 1,940 miles ⏱️ 31 hours

Travel south from Austin to San Francisco for a road trip packed with culture, immense landscapes, and lively cities of the American West.

Austin to New York

🚗 1,870 miles ⏱️ 31 hours

Take an epic road trip from Austin to New York City and as you head inland you'll be treated by the epic sights of the eastern United States.

Austin to Yellowstone National Park

🚗 1,870 miles ⏱️ 32 hours

Travel from Austin through Albuquerque to Yellowstone National Park for stunning natural wonders in America's first national park.

Austin to Seattle

🚗 2,145 miles ⏱️ 33 hours

Embark on a scenic journey from Austin to Seattle through the Utah Desert, where mesmerising landscapes await you.

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Weekend Getaways Near Austin

Central Texas is Blessed with a Bevy of Charming Small Towns

There's no shortage of convenient weekend getaways near Austin. Within a short drive from Austin, you'll find quaint small towns, water recreation, top-notch barbecue and tons of small, locally owned shops.

1. Fredericksburg

The bed-and-breakfast capital of Texas, Fredericksburg offers accommodations ranging from log cabins to downtown lofts. The pedestrian-friendly downtown area is chock full of antique shops, restaurants and clothing boutiques. For outdoorsy types, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a short drive away.

2. San Marcos

The San Marcos River is an ideal destination during the summertime for snorkelers, kayakers and tubers. For a mellower outing, you can enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride at Spring Lake (formerly the Aquarena Center ). Wonder World offers a unique way to escape the heat in cool caves. Downtown San Marcos is home to a number of burger joints and a quaint central square. Bargain hunters flock to the outlet mall on the edge of town.

3. Wimberley

A tiny little speck on the map, Wimberley is a haven for artists and craftspeople. You can find everything from handcrafted furniture to fine art, and the artist will probably invite you to hang around and have a beer or two. Don’t miss the town’s pristine swimming holes: Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole .

4. New Braunfels

New Braunfels is best known as the home of Schlitterbahn Waterpark, but it is also a prime destination for all-natural water recreation along the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers. Affordable campgrounds and historic bed-and-breakfasts provide easy access to fun on the water. Landa Park in downtown is a favorite destination for tubers and picnickers alike.

5. Luckenbach

Sure, it’s a bit gimmicky. There’s really nothing here other than an old general store. The town wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for the classic country song by Waylon Jennings. Nevertheless, Luckenbach is a laid-back place to stop for a little beer and barbecue, and there are usually a few singers playing tunes in and around the store.

Historic Gruene Hall is about all there is to this small town. But if you’re interested in dancing in a true Texas dance hall, it doesn’t get more authentic than this. Musical acts range from Jerry Jeff Walker to the Fabulous Thunderbirds. On Sundays, Gruene Hall hosts a gospel brunch with food from the nearby Gristmill Restaurant.

7. LaGrange

Another Texas town made famous by a song (by ZZ Top), LaGrange also inspired the play and film titled The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas . You won’t find any brothels around town now, but there’s plenty of beautiful scenery along the Colorado River. For great live music, head to the Bugle Boy , a listening room devoted to Texas talent.

8. Lockhart

Barbecue is the main attraction in Lockhart. The meat is so tender at Kreuz Market that you don’t need a fork or knife -- so they don’t provide silverware. They also frown on sauces. The meat is served on butcher paper and you just dig in with your hands. Down the road at Black’s Barbecue , they’re a little less hostile to sauce and silverware, and the brisket is just as good. 

9. San Antonio

Founded in 1718 by Spanish explorers, San Antonio is a modern city with a long and fascinating history. The Alamo is best known as the site of a key battle for Texas independence, but it is also part of a group of five missions built in the 1700s by Spanish missionaries. In 2015, the missions were deemed to be so historically significant that they were collectively named a UNESCO World Heritage Site . In the mid-1800s, the city became a hub for both westward military expansion and commerce. Cattle barons and railroad magnates built luxurious hotels such as the St. Anthony and the brewery that later became Hotel Emma . This newfound wealth also led to the creation of upscale neighborhoods such as the King William Historic District . For those interested in the city’s longstanding connection to the Catholic faith, San Fernando Cathedral is just one of many historic churches around San Antonio. Remember, if you really want to enjoy the Alamo, get there as early as possible before the hordes of tourists arrive. Most of the other missions are considerably less crowded. 

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8 Must-Do Weekend Road Trips from Austin, Texas

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski June 10, 2021 Updated October 02, 2023

Have a free weekend and want to get out of town? You don’t have to drive far from Austin to reach another place worth your while.

Sure, there’s plenty to see and do without leaving Austin’s city limits, but when the travel itch hits, the state capital’s location in central Texas makes it the perfect starting point for your weekend adventure. From metropolitan adventures to nature escapes, these are the best weekend road trips from Austin.

Quick note: As you’re planning your getaway, just keep in mind that traffic can get bad around the big city centers during the morning and evening rush hours. To spend more time exploring and less time on the road, it’s in your best interest to plan your drives around these busy time periods. Or at least have some podcasts pre-downloaded.

Related Read: 9 Best Texas Scenic Drives for Enjoying the Lone Star State Countryside

1. San Antonio

Austin is neighbors with another one of Texas’ major cities: San Antonio. Nicknamed both Alamo City and the River City, San Antonio is known among other things for its historical attractions, amusement parks, and Hispanic heritage. It was founded all the way back in 1718 so it has plenty of history on offer.

While you’re in San Antonio, you can’t miss seeing two of the top attractions not just in the city, but in the whole state: The Alamo (the famous 18th-century mission), and the River Walk , a picturesque stretch of shops and restaurants along the water. Aside from those spots, make time to see the other beautiful Spanish missions. Along with the Alamo, they form a collective national historical park and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you love a good theme park, you’ll be happy to know there are two big ones in San Antonio. First, there’s Six Flags Fiesta Texas , which is full of roller coasters and other thrill rides. Then, there’s SeaWorld , which is the country’s largest marine life park.

• Distance from Austin: 80 miles
• Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 20 mins

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

2. Fredericksburg

Good news, vino lovers: there’s no need to fly to Sonoma to have a wine-themed getaway. Fredericksburg is the center of the Texas wine country and the best weekend trip from Austin if you’re obsessed with all things pino. From here, you can easily book a wine tour or shuttle, or you can make your own itinerary by hopping between the many tasting rooms in the city center and the vineyards in the immediate surroundings.

Not into wine? Fredericksburg still has a lot to offer its visitors. For history buffs, there’s the National Museum of the Pacific War as well as the Pioneer Museum . For hiking enthusiasts, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is has views to justify its impressive name.

Another thing that makes Fredericksburg unique is its German heritage. The city was founded by German immigrants in 1846, and you’ll see that celebrated in some of the local restaurants and biergartens (yes, they have biergartens!)

• Distance from Austin: 78 miles
• Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 30 mins

Houston is the largest city in Texas by population and by area. Needless to say, you’ll find more than enough to fill your itinerary if you choose to spend your weekend trip from Austin here.

It may be hard to believe, but Houston has over 150 museums and cultural institutions, and you can hop between many of them with a visit to the city’s Museum District. Some of the best include the Houston Museum of Natural Science , the Museum of Fine Arts , The Menil Collection , and the Holocaust Museum .

If it’s your first time in Houston, you’ll also want to visit Space Center Houston (the city is called “Space City,” after all). This attraction is the official visitor center of NASA and features awesome exhibits on science and space exploration, including real and replica spacecrafts.

You’ll also find a few beloved green spaces tucked into Houston’s sprawling city landscape. Buffalo Bayou Park, Hermann Park, Memorial Park, and Discovery Green are all popular spots with locals and the perfect spot for a picnic or walk in between museum visits.

• Distance from Austin: 162 miles
• Drive time without stops: 2 hours, 30 mins

A straight shot north from Austin on I-35, Dallas is one of Texas’ biggest cities. Given that fact, you can settle down in the neighborhood that best matches your interests, or spend a little bit of time checking out a few of the city’s unique pockets.

Does your perfect day sound like hopping between local boutiques, galleries, and restaurants? Then the Bishop Arts District (slogan: “Dallas’ most independent neighborhood”) is calling your name. Interested in catching some live music? Deep Ellum, a neighborhood known for its entertainment venues and nightlife, is the place to go. Want to shop ‘til you drop? Then it’s Uptown for you. In terms of variety, the city offers plenty, even if you have a group of travel companions taking a weekend trip from Austin all interested in different activities.

Museum-wise, there’s quite the range here from the Dallas Museum of Art to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science to the Nasher Sculpture Center . Another top attraction is the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza , which commemorates JFK’s life, death, legacy, and is located in the spot from which Kennedy’s assassin took aim.

• Distance from Austin: 195 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours

5. Corpus Christi

Austin may not be on the coast, but a weekend is definitely enough time to get there and have some leisurely fun in the sun. South of Austin on the Gulf Coast, Corpus Christi is a popular weekend trip from Austin for beach-minded Texans.

Close to the city center, you have North Beach and McGee Beach, but drive a little bit further and you can get to Padre Island – the world’s longest barrier island – where you’ll find the popular Whitecap Beach. Near there is also Mustang Island State Park, which offers more than five miles of coastline and lots of opportunities for camping, paddling, and birdwatching. You can have a party type of atmosphere, or more of a “relax and feed the seagulls” type of weekend.

It’s not just about fun in the sun in Corpus Christi, though. Other local attractions include the Texas State Aquarium (a nonprofit aquarium dedicated to conservation and rehabilitation), The Selena Museum (honoring Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the late “Queen of Tejano music”), and the USS Lexington (a World War II aircraft turned museum).

• Distance from Austin: 199 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours, 20 mins

6. Galveston

Near Houston, Galveston is another option for a coastal weekend trip. With 32 miles of shoreline, the island has a few different beaches where you can post up for the day. Another way to enjoy that ocean air is to walk along the historic Seawall, which dates back to 1902 and was built for protection from hurricanes.

Speaking of 1902, Galveston has quite a few beautiful historic sites. There’s the Strand Historic District (a national historic landmark district with Victorian-era buildings) as well as Bishop’s Palace and Moody Mansion , two impressive Victorian mansions you can tour. Are they haunted? Up to you.

If you can find some time to step away from the beach, head to Moody Gardens , a popular attraction recognizable by its three large pyramids. There’s one with an aquarium, one with tropical flora and fauna, and one with science exhibits and activities. For even more fun, you can pay a visit to Schlitterbahn Waterpark .

• Distance from Austin: 215 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours, 45 mins

7. Garner State Park

If you’re getting out of town because you want to connect with nature and get away from the concrete vibes for a bit, the best weekend trip from Austin for you will be Garner State Park , which spans over 1,700 acres and has 16 miles of trails to hike. It’s a nearly perfect place to get away for the weekend. West of Austin in Concan, it’s one of the most popular state parks in Texas.

Since a few miles of the Frio River run through the park, it’s particularly nice to come here when the weather is warm so you can go for a swim or float the river. Another reason to come during the summer? The park’s famous nightly Summer Dances at the park’s concession building and dance pavilion, a tradition that started back in the 1940s.

In terms of camping, there are tent sites, screened shelters, and cabins available, and you can make reservations online.You can also rent on-site everything you need for water-bound fun, like inner tubes, paddle boats, and kayaks.

• Distance from Austin: 175 miles

Related Read:   The 9 Best State Parks Near Austin, Texas

8. Lost Maples State Natural Area

Not too far from Garner State Park is another popular place to commune with nature: Lost Maples State Natural Area in Vanderpool. Totaling about 2,900 acres, this area is famous for its fall foliage, so plan for a weekend trip from from Austin in October or November if you want to try and catch the beautiful transformation of colors. There’s even a fall foliage color report you can check online that’s updated weekly during the season.

Even if you go to Lost Maples during a season other than autumn, you’ll be in for a good time. You can hike over 10 miles of trails; the East and West Trail loops in particular take you to some pretty great views. There’s also fishing in the Sabinal River or Can Creek (you don’t need a license to fish from a shore or pier here), and birdwatching (keep an eye out for the endangered golden-cheeked warbler).

Lost Maples has 30 campsites with water and electricity as well as primitive campsites you can backpack to, all of which you can reserve online in advance.

• Distance from Austin: 143 miles
• Drive time without stops : 3 hours

More Weekend Getaways in Texas

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Posted by Cindy Brzostowski

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

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

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15 Out-of-the-Box Weekend Getaways for Austinites

• By Avery Matschek
• September 27, 2023

From yurts to cabins to treehouses, there are many unique places to escape the city for weekend getaways full of relaxation. Hop in the car and head to one of these eccentric and amazing lodging options, each one just a short drive from Austin.

Cypress Valley

1223 south paleface ranch rd., spicewood, tx.

Childhood dreams come to life at Cypress Valley , where guests can escape to a charming treehouse that provides both comfort and adventure. Originally a family ranch, the land is home to beautiful animals and stunning cypress trees. The treehouses range in size, but each one presents a serene setting for a private getaway. Brand new to the resort are glamping tents, which feature a king-size bed and private deck.

The Yurtopian

135 winn ranch rd., wimberley, tx.

The Yurtopian , with locations in Wimberley and Dripping Springs , gives visitors the chance to relax in hilltop yurts. The retreat’s Remote Yurts each have their own hot tub/pool, kitchen, fireplace, bathroom and rooftop deck, while its Communal Yurts offer a shared playground and access to the Blanco River. Wimberley is home to both Blue Hole Regional Park and Jacob’s Well Natural Area, making it a great getaway destination for anyone looking to unplug and dive into nature .

520 Whitewater Way, New Braunfels, TX

Camp is not just for kids thanks to Camp Fimfo , a Guadalupe River retreat that offers a range of camping and glamping accommodations. From top-notch RV sites to custom-designed cabins, there are many ways to stay. Families can also enjoy a number of outdoor attractions, such as an interactive water playground, mini-golf course, wading creek and a giant jumping pillow. Interested in heading a bit north? Visit Camp Fimfo’s second location , which sits along the Bosque River in Waco.

Flophouze Shipping Container Hotel

1132 west fm 1291, round top, tx.

Recycled shipping containers transform into cozy, unique lodging options at the Flophouze Shipping Container Hotel in Round Top. A truly funky experience , Flophouze’s interiors feature sustainably harvested wood, counter tops made from old bowling alley floors and a myriad of vintage accent pieces.

The Retreat on the Hill

4325 cottonwood dr., cottonwood shores, tx.

About an hour-long drive from downtown Austin, the Retreat on the Hill provides sweeping views of the Texas Hill Country from a range of lodging options. We recommend the Stardome Suite, a clear, bubble-like structure that lends itself to an epic night of stargazing at the highest point of the property. Located 101 feet above Horseshoe Bay, this is a photo-worthy spot with views for days in a romantic, private setting.

Collective Hill Country

7431 fulton ranch rd., wimberley, tx.

At Collective Hill Country , it’s camping, but elevated . Nestled on a ridge overlooking Montesino Ranch, the retreat has a number of gorgeous tents for visitors. Along with the lush lodging, Collective Hill Country provides amazing experiences like in-tent massages, sound meditation and campfire s’mores. And don’t miss the food here — guests can take advantage of decadent multi-course tasting menus from fresh produce and hand-selected meats.

The Cell Block

120 clifton art alley, clifton, tx.

Ever wanted to spend a night behind bars? That’s the premise of The Cell Block , a former city jail that has been transformed into a quaint and quirky one-bedroom, one-bathroom hotel in Clifton, Texas. Stop in for a stay at the cleaned-up version of the original jail, complete with steel cell doors and handmade dominoes, a nod to the pastime of prisoners decades ago. The Cell Block even has its own line of wine, The Cell Block’s Tempranillo, from nearby Red Caboose Winery .

Rancho Pillow

11222 schuster rd., round top, tx.

Rancho Pillow is a 20-acre wonderland located about seven miles from Round Top’s town square. Owner and designer Sheila Youngblood has created a colorful, creative venue with a heated saltwater wading pool, poetry library, fire pit and much more. Popularity peaks during Round Top’s semi-annual Antiques Fair, held in the spring and the fall, but Rancho Pillow is a worthy place to visit any time of year.

197 Orts Ln., Paige, TX

With 54 acres of land chock full of amenities like an outdoor gym, pool and yoga deck, Serana has a lot to offer as a weekend getaway. Interaction amongst guests is fostered through a communal kitchen and dining area, but privacy is still a priority in the intimate Kampinas (cabins) that have full electricity, air conditioning and heat. Only 45 minutes east of Austin, it’s a quick trip for locals looking to get their nature fix.

Lucky Arrow Retreat

3600 bell springs rd., dripping springs, tx.

Lucky Arrow Retreat , the self-proclaimed “Glamping Capital of Texas,” is nestled in the Hill Country. With yurts and cabins, guests can choose their own getaway adventure to find an ideal setting. Lucky Arrow is also perfect for private events and weddings thanks to its ample outdoor venue space.

Walden Retreats

1388 gipson rd., johnson city, tx.

Relaxation and restoration abound at Walden Retreats , a recently renovated 96-acre nature mecca just an hour away from Austin. Their luxury safari tents offer the best of both worlds , combining a getaway experience in the great outdoors with the pleasures of a five-star hotel. The riverfront property is close to a number of activities, including the 290 Wine Trail, Luckenbach Dance Hall and Pedernales Falls.

Hill Country Herb Garden

405 whitney st., fredericksburg, tx.

Recently reopened after a significant renovation, Hill Country Herb Garden now has 14 cottages, 154 unique botanical species and a luxurious spa. Located just a few blocks away from Main Street, this wellness-focused venue is an incredible homebase for your next Fredericksburg visit . Every cottage stay includes a complimentary breakfast delivered to your door in the morning, and the spa has many customized options for unwinding.

El Castell Cabins

102 rockin river rd., castell, tx.

Get a taste of cabin life at Llano County’s El Castell Cabins , where guests can indulge in fun activities like kayaking, biking and fly fishing. The four cabins are a great fit for couples or smaller group getaways, while the large house on property is superb for extended families reuniting in the Hill Country.

Bonus: For a longer drive

Willow House

23112 fm 170, terlingua, tx.

If you’re interested in a longer road trip, head to Willow House , a twelve casita retreat in Terlingua. This relaxing setting, which is only six miles from Big Bend National Park , is for those looking to explore during the day and enjoy the views of the Chisos Mountain Range at night. Willow House can be rented out for weddings, birthdays or other events, but it’s also perfect for guests who want to meet new friends, thanks to the communal Main House and nighttime fires.

802 South Highland Ave., Marfa, TX

Take a weekend to travel all the way to Marfa — El Cosmico is worth the drive. The extensive campground is home to renovated vintage trailers, Sioux-style tepees, Mongolian yurts and much more. Nomads from around the world seek out this hotel for its rich culture and ever-growing calendar of events, including the Trans-Pecos Festival .

21 Best Road Trips from Austin, Texas

Live in Austin or just visiting the Texas State Capital and want to get out of the city?

Luckily, there are countless amazing road trips you can explore all over Texas!

From small towns in the Texas Hill Country and stunning state parks to neighboring states like New Mexico and Arizona, we’ve got the ultimate list of best road trips from Austin, Texas.

Also Read: 32 Best day trips from Austin, Texas

Best Road Trips from Austin within Texas

Countless amazing road trips can be taken within a few hours of Austin, each with its unique attractions and experiences.

Here are our favorite road trips from Austin to nearby attractions.

Austin Fredericksburg Road Trip

Fredericksburg is a small town in the Hill Country of Texas with a rich German heritage.

Visitors can explore this history at the Pioneer Museum or take a tour of the Vereins Kirche, an 1880s-style German church.

Fredericksburg is also home to several museums, including the National Museum of the Pacific War, which tells the story of the Pacific campaigns of World War II. 

The town is located just a short drive from Austin, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway. 

A must-stop on this road trip is Enchanted Rock State Park. 

The massive pink granite dome rises 425 feet above the surrounding landscape and is one of the largest monoliths in the United States.

The highlight of the park is its summit, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Other great stops on this Austin Fredericksburg road trip include Luckenbach, Dripping Springs, and Blanco.

Also Read: 17 Best State Parks near Austin, Texas to Visit Now

Texas Hill Country Road Trip for bluebonnets

The Texas Hill Country is a scenic region of rolling hills and wildflowers.

It’s an ideal destination for a road trip, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and picnicking.

Start your trip in Austin and visit Muleshoe Bend and Turkey Bend Recreation areas to see the sprawling flower fields on the shores of Lake Travis.

The area is also home to several small towns such as Burnet – the bluebonnet capital of Texas, Marble Falls, and Llano.

In addition, the Hill Country is home to several vineyards and wineries, making it the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine after a day of admiring the bluebonnets.

San Antonio Road Trip

San Antonio is a beautiful city with a rich history.

The Alamo is one of the most popular destinations in the city.

This historic site is where the Battle of the Alamo took place.

Be sure to take a tour of the Spanish Colonial mission and learn about the history of this important landmark.

The city is also home to several excellent restaurants, hotels, and parks.

Next, take a stroll along the San Antonio River Walk.

This beautiful pedestrian walkway winds its way along the banks of the San Antonio River.

The river walk is lined with restaurants, shops, art galleries, and other cultural attractions. 

San Antonio also has many museums, including the Museum of Art and The Witte Museum.

The distance from Austin to San Antonio is just under 80 miles and the trip takes about 1 hr 30 mins.

Austin Houston Road Trip

Houston is one of our favorite weekend getaways from Austin.

The city has a lot to offer, from excellent restaurants and shopping to museums and cultural attractions.

Start your road trip to Houston by visiting the Museum District.

This area is home to several different museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Children’s Museum of Houston.

Next, head to the Space Center Houston.

This museum is operated by NASA and is a must-see for anyone interested in space exploration.

The center offers tours of the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, as well as exhibits on the history of the American space program.

Spend some time at the beach by visiting Galveston Island.

The island is home to several beaches, as well as the famous Moody Gardens.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Austin, Texas

Austin Waco Drive

One of our favorite road trips in Central Texas!

Waco is home to several family-friendly attractions.

The Waco Mammoth National Monument preserves the remains of ancient mammoths in the fossil bed.

Visitors can also tour the ranger-led exhibits and learn about the area’s natural history.

The famous Dr. Pepper Museum chronicles the history of this popular soft drink.

Then, take a walk through the Cameron Park Zoo to see the animals.

And no trip to Waco would be complete without a stop at Magnolia Market at the Silos, made famous by HGTV’s “Fixer Upper.”

With its quaint shops and boutiques, Magnolia Market is the perfect place to pick up home decor, clothes, souvenirs, and gifts.

Wimberley San Marcos Road Trip

Wimberley is our favorite small town in Texas!

This quaint town is situated on the banks of the Blanco River in the Hill Country.

Wimberley is home to several art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants.

The town is also a popular destination for swimming, tubing, and kayaking on the river.

Nearby, visitors can also explore the Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well.

Just a few miles from Wimberley is San Marcos, a lively university town.

The San Marcos River is known for its excellent swimming and tubing–and even kayaking!

Dallas Fort Worth Weekend Getaway from Austin

Looking for a fun weekend getaway from Austin?

Look no further than Dallas and Fort Worth!

Start your visit by exploring downtown Dallas.

Catch a ride on the elevator to the top of Reunion Tower for a stunning view of the city.

Be sure to check out the JFK Memorial and Dealey Plaza, as well as several museums including The Sixth Floor Museum, which explores the life and death of President John F. Kennedy.

Fort Worth is only about 45 minutes away but offers a very different experience.

Visit the Stockyards National Historic District to learn about Fort Worth’s cattle ranching heritage, then grab a bite at one of the many top-rated steakhouses in the area.

No trip to Fort Worth would be complete without witnessing a live Texas rodeo, so head to Cowtown Coliseum for steer wrestling and bull riding.

Read: Austin to Dallas Road trip Guide

Arlington Road Trip from Downtown Austin

Arlington is home to Six Flags, one of the best amusement parks in America!

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer something a little tamer, Six Flags has plenty of roller coasters and other rides to keep you entertained.

If you visit in the summer months, be sure to check out Hurricane Harbor, the water park next door.

Arlington is also home to Globe Life Park – the home of the Texas Rangers baseball team.

If you’re a sports fan, be sure to catch a game there during your trip!

No visit to Arlington is complete without spending some time in the entertainment district downtown.

Here you can find several bars and restaurants serving up local craft beers and delicious BBQ.

Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park is one of the best state parks in Texas.

The park is home to miles of soft sandy beaches, as well as several hiking trails and birding areas through the dunes.

Mustang Island is a popular destination for camping, fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

South Padre Island Road Trip

South Padre Island, located on the South Texas Gulf Coast, is the spring break capital of Texas.

With miles of white sand beaches, top-rated surfing conditions, and plenty of nightlife, it’s easy to see why.

South Padre Island is also home to some great family attractions like Sea Turtle Rescue Center and the South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center.

You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities on the island including fishing, windsurfing, and horseback riding.

No trip to South Padre Island would be complete without taking a dolphin watch tour or going parasailing.

Corpus Christi Road Trip

Corpus Christi is a beautiful coastal city located on the Gulf of Mexico.

Here you will find miles of Corpus Christi beaches , as well as several great attractions.

Some of our favorites include the Texas State Aquarium, the USS Lexington Museum, and the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center.

If you’re looking for a fun day trip, head over to Padre Island National Seashore or Port Aransas.

Caddo Lake Weekend Trip

Caddo Lake State Park is the perfect spot for a weekend trip in East Texas.

The park is home to Caddo Lake, the largest natural lake in the state.

This beautiful lake is known for its fishing and boating, as well as its abundance of wildlife.

The park itself is home to a variety of hiking trails and boardwalks, making it the perfect place to spot alligators, turtles, birds, and more!

No trip to Caddo Lake is complete without taking a scenic boat tour of the lake.

Tyler and East Texas

Tyler, located in East Texas, is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

The city is home to a variety of attractions including the Caldwell Zoo, Tyler Rose Garden, and the East Texas State Fair.

If you’re looking for a more outdoorsy weekend, head to one of the nearby state parks like Tyler State Park or Daingerfield State Park.

Other small towns in East Texas worth visiting include Jefferson, Marshall , and Nacogdoches.

All three offer a variety of historical attractions, as well as outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Plan the ultimate West Texas road trip to the Guadalupe Mountains!

The national park is home to the Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas.

The park also offers several great hiking trails, as well as the opportunity to go horseback riding, mountain biking, and backpacking.

Don’t forget to pack your camera – the views from the top of Guadalupe Peak are simply breathtaking!

Extend this trip by visiting other West Texas attractions such as Carlsbad Caverns, Pecos, El Paso, and Fort Stockton .

Big Bend National Park

For the ultimate outdoors adventure, head to Big Bend National Park in West Texas.

The park offers miles of scenic hiking trails through the Chihuahuan Desert and along the Rio Grande River.

Within the park, you’ll also find plenty of opportunities for camping, backpacking, rafting, fishing, and more.

Visit the Terlingua ghost town and Marfa, two popular towns located nearby.

You can also extend your trip by visiting Alpine, Marathon, and Big Bend Ranch State Park.

The best time to visit Texas is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.

Also Read: Austin to Big Bend Road Trip

Texas Route 66

Texas Route 66 offers the perfect road trip, traveling through ghost towns, vintage gas stations, and natural wonders in the state.

Start your journey in Austin and make your way up the Texas Panhandle.

Along the way, be sure to stop at some of the most iconic attractions including Cadillac Ranch and Palo Duro Canyon.

End your trip in Amarillo where you can explore the Historic Route 66 Historic District.

Best Road Trips from Austin beyond Texas

Looking for multi-day overnight trips from Austin, Texas?

There are many amazing road trip options beyond the state’s borders, including the Grand Canyon and Sedona in Arizona;

….New Orleans in Louisiana;

Las Vegas in Nevada; or Denver and Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado!

Also Read: Weekend in Austin Itinerary

Austin New Mexico Road trip

Looking for a great road trip that combines the best of both Texas and New Mexico?

Consider taking a drive on Austin to New Mexico Road, which travels from Austin to Santa Fe.

Along the way, you’ll pass through iconic southwestern landscapes filled with canyons, red rock formations, and stunning sunsets.

Some of the highlights of this road trip include Albuquerque, Carlsbad Caverns, and White Sands National Monument.

Carlsbad Caverns is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site while White Sands is famous for its dunes made of gypsum sand.

Make sure to add this one to your bucket list!

Austin Grand Canyon Road Trip

One of the most popular road trips from Austin is to the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

This trip can be done in a week, making it the perfect summer vacation trip.

The drive from Austin to the Grand Canyon is about 18 hours, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the journey.

Along the way, make sure to stop at some of the many stunning natural wonders in this part of the country.

These include Petrified Forest National Park, Monument Valley, and the Antelope Canyons.

Once you reach Grand Canyon National Park, be sure to spend a few days exploring its many hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and historic sites.

Texas Colorado Road Trip

Another popular road trip destination from Austin is Denver, Colorado.

The beautiful Mile High city is located in the front range of the Rockies and is surrounded by stunning landscapes.

This makes it the perfect destination for a Texas Colorado road trip .

There are many amazing scenic drives in Colorado, including the famous Trail Ridge Road and Peak to Peak Scenic Byway.

You can also explore Rocky Mountain National Park, which is located just outside of Denver and features hiking trails, wildflowers, waterfalls, and alpine lakes.

In winter, Colorado is the favorite ski and snow destination for Texans.

Austin New Orleans Drive

One of the most popular road trips from Austin is to New Orleans.

This drive will take you about 9 hours, but you’ll be sure to enjoy the beautiful southern scenery along the way.

Some of the top highlights of this trip include Cajun Country in Louisiana and the Gulf Coast, with its beautiful beaches and vibrant towns.

As you near New Orleans, make sure to explore some of the city’s iconic neighborhoods including the French Quarter and Garden District.

End your trip with a beignet at Cafe du Monde, one of New Orleans’ most famous landmarks.

Texas California Road Trip

Plan the ultimate cross-country road trip adventure across the Southwest USA!

Starting in Austin, make your way to California via multiple scenic routes, including the classic Route 66 and the California Coast Highway.

Along the way, be sure to stop at some of America’s best national parks like Zion, Joshua Tree, Yosemite, and Death Valley.

Visit the iconic cities of Santa Fe, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

And don’t forget to visit the Disney Parks in Anaheim.

This is a road trip you’ll never forget!

Did you like our post on the best road trips from Austin, Texas?

Which of these trips would you most like to take? Let us know in the comments!

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Long Weekend Getaways

Whether you are a proud Austinite or a Newcomer to the area looking to escape the stress, anxiety, and structure of the big city, get ready to unwind your mind, body, and soul at local weekend getaways. If you are feeling brave and adventurous, then explore past the construction and traffic to beautiful nearby destinations.

Newcomers to Austin often seek a well-rounded long weekend getaway that provides a taste of the city’s unique culture, vibrant entertainment scene, outdoor activities, and delicious culinary offerings. Whether you have been planning a trip for some time or are making a spur of the moment decision, take note on some of these destinations that can offer relaxation, seclusion, or a dynamic family-friendly atmosphere sure to making memories of a lifetime!

Image by: Mitchell Kmetz

Here are some top recommendations for your trip throughout the city of Austin:

• Downtown Austin: Explore the vibrant downtown area, stroll along 6th Street for live music and nightlife, visit the Texas State Capitol, and take in the city’s unique atmosphere.
• Lady Bird Lake: Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or take a leisurely walk or bike ride around Lady Bird Lake. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail offers beautiful views of the city skyline.
• South Congress (SoCo): This trendy neighborhood is known for its eclectic shops, vintage boutiques, and a variety of restaurants and food trucks. Don’t miss snapping a photo in front of the “I Love You So Much” mural.
• Zilker Park: Enjoy the outdoors at Zilker Park, where you can have a picnic, fly kites, or take a dip in Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming pool.
• Barton Creek Greenbelt: If you’re a nature lover, hike the Barton Creek Greenbelt trails and cool off in the natural swimming holes along the way.
• Rainey Street: Experience a unique nightlife scene on Rainey Street, known for its bungalow-style bars and food trucks.
• Blanton Museum of Art: Explore the impressive art collection at the Blanton Museum, which features a diverse range of artworks from various cultures and time periods.
• LBJ Presidential Library: Dive into history at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum, which provides insights into the life and presidency of LBJ.
• Live Music Venues: As the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin has numerous venues where you can catch live music performances. The Continental Club, Antone’s, and Mohawk are just a few examples.
• Food Trucks and Culinary Scene: Indulge in Austin’s renowned food truck scene and try local favorites like breakfast tacos, barbecue, and gourmet donuts.
• Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum: Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the sculpture garden, showcasing the works of renowned sculptor Charles Umlauf.
• Austin’s Bat Bridge: Watch the spectacle of thousands of bats emerging from underneath the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. It’s a unique and popular Austin experience.
• Visit Nearby Wineries and Breweries: Take a short drive to the Texas Hill Country and explore the region’s wineries and craft breweries.
• Circuit of the Americas: If you’re a fan of motorsports, check the event calendar at Circuit of the Americas for exciting races and events.

Image by: J. Amill Santiago

Here are some options that are beyond the construction and traffic explosion of the city:

• Fredericksburg: Known for its German heritage, Fredericksburg offers wineries, charming shops, and a historic downtown. It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Austin.
• San Antonio: Explore the historic Alamo, stroll along the River Walk, and visit various museums and cultural sites. San Antonio is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Austin.
• Wimberley: This small town is famous for its artistic community, natural springs, and outdoor activities. It’s just about an hour’s drive from Austin.
• New Braunfels: Enjoy tubing along the Guadalupe and Comal rivers, visit Gruene Historic District, and explore Natural Bridge Caverns. New Braunfels is around a 1-hour drive from Austin.
• Lake Travis: Relax by the lake, rent a boat, or visit some lakeside parks for outdoor fun. Lake Travis is very close to Austin, making it a convenient getaway option.
• Enchanted Rock: If you’re into hiking and outdoor adventures, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers stunning rock formations and trails. It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Austin.
• Houston: While a bit farther (around 3 hours), Houston offers a plethora of attractions including museums, parks, and diverse dining options.
• Dallas/Fort Worth: These cities are about a 3 to 3.5-hour drive from Austin and provide a mix of cultural experiences, shopping, and entertainment.
• Pedernales Falls State Park: This park offers beautiful landscapes, hiking, and the chance to explore the Pedernales River. It’s located about an hour away from Austin.
• Canyon Lake: Perfect for water activities like boating and fishing, Canyon Lake is about an hour and a half drive from Austin.

Remember to check for any local events, live music performances, and any COVID-19 related guidelines or restrictions that might be in place during your visit. Austin offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to various interests, so you are sure to find something that suits your preferences.

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Driveable getaways from austin.

When you want to plan the ultimate family vacation, you can look to HomeAway  for thousands of rental listings that offer all the comforts of home. Book your stay online then pack up the car and get away from it all (whether for along weekend or a big trip) to explore some pretty amazing destinations right here in Texas.

Check out these available HomeAway rental properties to keep in mind for your next family vacation:

–> Lake Tawakoni A secluded cabin on the lake is just what your family needs (located approximately 4 hours from Austin). Parents can sleep in the master bedroom downstairs and the kids can sleep in the upstairs loft equipped with one queen bed, two twin beds and room for a queen sized air mattress. Sleeps 8; $188 average/night.

–> Lake Palestine Spend your nights gathered around the fire pit overlooking the panoramic views of the Lake Palestine (approximately 4 hours from Austin) and rock on the porch of this waterfront cottage in the morning, taking in the sights of the beautiful East Texas sunrise. Sleeps 6; $163 average/night.

–> Lake Aquilla Discover the relaxation at Trinity Trails Ranch , 24 acres of forested land located in the heart of Texas on Lake Aquilla where you can go boating, fishing, and hiking (approximately 2 hours from Austin). Sleeps 10; $199 average/night.

–> Big Bend National Park Trade in the city lights for starry nights at one of Texas’ most beautiful landmarks: Big Bend (approximately 7 hours from Austin).

— You won’t find a TV in this house. This historic hilltop home is the perfect way to “unplug” and enjoy the unobstructed views and peaceful sounds of the desert. Sleeps 6; $207 average/night.

—  Make memories and unwind in this Spirit of Texas home custom built in true adobe style. Tell stories by the firepit and get together for a home-cooked meal on the Texas-sized front porch. Sleeps 4, $160 avg/night.

–> Boerne Less than a 2-hour drive from Austin is Boerne, a Texas Hill Country treasure. Don’t leave without browsing the quaint shops on Main Street or exploring the “Cave Without a Name.”

— This restored home is located just steps away from historic Main Street in downtown Boerne. This home is full of character and your kids will love sitting on the porch sipping a glass of iced tea. Sleeps 4, $121 avg/night

— Sip on some hot cocoa under the outdoor twinkle-light seating area. This charming cottage is only a short walk from downtown Boerne. Sleeps 4,$195 avg/night

–> San Antonio After a long day of strolling the Riverwalk or riding the roller coasters at Six Flags Fiesta, relax by the pool in this renovated mid-century modern home (approximately 2 hours from Austin). Sleeps 8; $224 average/night.

–> South Padre Island Take a break from your busy schedule to enjoy the pristine beaches at South Padre Island (approximately 5.5 hours from Austin). You can drive across the scenic Queen Isabella Causeway over to Port Isabel on the mainland where you can take in the spectacular view from the historic lighthouse, do some shopping in Lighthouse Square, or cast a line from the Pirate’s Landing fishing pier!

— This second-story beach house is just minutes from the beach. This home is large enough for six family members and even welcomes your four-legged friend! Sleeps 6, $102 avg/night.

— This South Padre beach house is only a short walk to the ocean and even has its own private pool that your kids will love! Sleeps 10, $230 avg/night

–> Inks Lake This charming cottage sits right on Inks Lake resides in the most private area of the Highland Lakes chain (approximately 1.5 hours from Austin). Built in 1951 and remodeled in 2012, it is the perfect spot for your next family getaway with access to fishing from the dock or bird watching from the patio. Easy day-trips can also be made to San Antonio, Austin, Llano and Fredericksburg. Sleeps 8, $200 average/night.

–> Lake LBJ This lakefront property sits on the cove side only 100 yards away from the open waters of Lake LBJ (approximately 1.5 hours from Austin). The protected cove behind the property is perfect for recreational activities like swimming, fishing and floating. Being in between Marble Falls and Kingsland allows for this home to be close to shopping, grocery stores and more. Sleeps 14; $375 average/night

Feeling inspired to plan a getaway? We sure are! No matter where or when you want to escape, HomeAway has SO many awesome listings for the perfect family vacation. You can visit HomeAway.com and search by location and travel dates.

Get out there and enjoy some family fun and make some happy travel memories!

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Do512 Family is all about what to do in Austin with kids. We love to be out and about in Austin and are always looking for fun things to do with the family.

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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Explore Austin

Real estate advice, moves that inspire, the front porch, the best day trips and weekend getaways from austin.

From ziplining and waterparks to wine tasting and glamping, we've compiled a list of our favorite day trips and weekend getaways that are an easy distance from Austin.

We can all agree that Austin is the best city in the world, offering many different activities and events for the perfect day trip, including a visit to a museum and cooling off in its natural swimming holes. Even though Austin is the best city to live in, sometimes we need to go on an adventure not too far away and discover new activities. There are so many places to experience and travel to outside of Austin, so let us make your decision easier and check out our list of day trips and weekend getaways!

Fun Day Trips and Weekend Getaways From Austin:

Admire Artwork at a Nearby Museum

Bbq in lockhart, discover gruene, texas, drink new beers at a local brewery, drive over to magnolia market, explore sea animals, glamping and more, go-kart and more at austin’s park n’ pizza, pick fruit at sweet berry farm, play connect the dots with swimming holes, reach the summit at enchanted rock, scream your head off on a roller coaster, slip and slide at a waterpark, take a ride on a steam train, visit the san antonio riverwalk, wine tasting in the hill country, ziplining in wimberley.

Downtown Austin

If you admire the arts, check out what The Blanton Museum of Art has on its walls! The Blanton Museum of art has nearly 18,000 works of art from across the ages ranging from ancient Greek pottery to abstract expressionism and European paintings to Latin American art. With all these unique pieces, it's no wonder that The Blanton is one of the best university art museums in the country! You are guaranteed to leave with a greater appreciation for the arts! Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, the Blanton is closed. But they are offering 360 virtual tours so you can still enjoy looking at amazing work!

30 miles from Austin

Before Franklin Barbecue and food trucks like La Barbecue and BBQ Revolution became popular, there was only one place to get the best BBQ near Austin, Black's BBQ . If you want to get away from Austin for the day and have some amazing barbecue, then head out into BBQ territory in Lockhart! Lockhart is known for their lineage of BBQ stores and dueling families who claim they make the best brisket. That might be the reason why Lockhart is called the BBQ capital of Texas! If BBQ isn’t your thing, then visit one of the haunted schools at night for a scare challenge.

45-50 miles from Austin

After floating the Comal River in New Braunfels, grab dinner at the famous restaurant, Gristmill , for delicious food and stunning views of the Comal River. Then put on your cowboy boots for a show at Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall! Once you get tired from dancing, you can go to bed in a cozy cottage at the Comal River Cottages or spend the night at River Road Campgrounds for an average of $25 per night! The next morning, walk around town and buy something at some of the beautiful antique stores or on your way back to Austin, stop by the San Marcos Outlets and save big on hundreds of designers!

There are a growing amount of breweries in Austin making it easy to find fantastic local craft beers you don’t want to miss out on! Some include Austin Beerworks , Blackstar Co-op , Blue Owl Brewing , Jester King Brewery , Oasis Texas Brewing Company and more! If there are too many for you to check out in one day and you don't want to drive around Austin all day, then check out ATXcursions ! They offer public brewery tours, which are great for smaller groups, pairs, or single riders and they have custom brewery tours that are perfect for bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthday parties, business events, and other private events!

102 Miles from Austin

If you love Chip and Joanna Gaines' hit HGTV show, Fixer Upper , you should check out their amazing market in Waco, Texas! There's a little something for everyone at Magnolia Market like shopping, games, the garden and even a bite to eat. Spend time at the lawn with your family and play cornhole, potato sack races, and throw the football around. Joanna's garden has a wooden teepee to adventure under, and beds filled with seasonal produce and flowers. Let's not forget the SILOS BAKING CO! Their on-site bakery is filled with Joanna's personal recipes and hand-picked favorites such as The Silos Cookie, The Prize Pig bacon and cheddar biscuit, and the Nuts & Bolts cupcake!

90 Miles from Austin

If you love animals and sea creatures, then SeaWorld is the perfect place for you! Experience thrilling coasters and extraordinary rides for the whole family from a raft ride to a hyper coaster; SeaWorld San Antonio’s mix of rides are some of the best in Texas. They also have shows that are fun for the whole family like Ocean Discovery and the award-winning, Pets Ahoy. SeaWorld is home to many amazing animals and gives you the perfect opportunity to make a connection and swim alongside a dolphin, beluga whale or sea lion! If you want to spend more than one day at SeaWorld, then stay the night at one of their official hotel partners for a great price!

75 Miles from Austin

Camping has always been a favorite Austin pastime, but now you can do it in style at Rancho Pillow, known for its unique take on glamping. Glamping is a new glamorous style of camping with amenities and resort-style services you don't usually get with traditional camping. Located near the tiny town of Round Top, which is known for its annual antique festival, Rancho Pillow has many opportunities to stay in style in everything from a giant teepee to a huge, vintage barn from the 1940s. Whether you love antiques or want to get away from home in a cool and new style, Rancho Pillow has it all and more!

15 miles from Austin

Fill your time with memories and fun times by going to Austin’s Park n’ Pizza! Start your day by tearing around the track in one of their slick track Go-Karts! Then test your skills on their 18 hole mini-golf courses! After that, get ready to play in the dark in their laser tag arena. There’s a full-service 10 lane bowling alley and bowling alley bar games like shuffleboard, pool, and pinball. And when you get hungry, there are always the great chef-inspired menu options from their bar and grill to try! It's a great way to spend a summer day or any day!

52 Miles from Austin

Bring the kids out, and spend a day picking your own fruit at Sweet Berry Farm! Located just outside Austin in Marble Falls, this cute little farm grows delicious fruits all through the spring and summer, making it the perfect day trip. There’s no need to bring a basket, as they supply them for free on the property! Once you’ve picked enough delicious fruits, cool down with their homemade lemonade, ice cream, and popsicles, made fresh daily. Then, go and meet some of the animals living on the property! Keep in mind that Sweet Berry is closed every Wednesday, and their recommended time of the week is around 10:30 on Thursdays when it’s still cool and not too busy! Sweet Berry Farm is temporarily closed for the summer. But no worries, they are getting ready for a special fall surprise!

All Around Austin

Central Texas has some pretty amazing swimming holes, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of them during the dog days of summer. So plan a day around these swimming holes and beat the summer heat! This itinerary is perfect for families of all sizes. Start your day off at Jacob’s Well in Wimberley, then drive over to Hamilton Pool (don’t forget to make a reservation first) and, to complete the triangle, finish up at Barton Springs. There are so many more swimming holes in Austin to cool off in, so be sure to check out our list of Austin’s best swimming holes to see more! Make sure to make a reservation before heading out to swimming holes!

97 miles from Austin

Just down the road from Fredericksburg is Enchanted Rock, known for its challenging rock cliffs for climbers and massive granite summit overlooking the beautiful park. The park's most popular hiking path is Summit Trail for its scenery and rock formations. Once you’ve had your fill of hiking, head back into town for some food and a bit of shopping. At Enchanted Rock, there are so many activities you can participate in such as caving, hiking, backpacking, camping, rock climbing and picnicking! There's even a rock climbing competition you can participate in as a way to raise money for park conservation! Make sure to make a reservation before heading out to Enchanted Rock!

82 miles from Austin

Make the most of your day by going to Six Flags Fiesta Texas! Bring your family and friends for thrilling rides and good times! This year, Six Flags has lots of new experiences in store for you with new attractions, premier entertainment, additional shops, new food locations, and updated game stands! Ride their newest roller coaster, the Wonder Woman Golden Lasso! This new roller coaster is the world's first single I-beam rail coaster with a 90-degree drop, two airtime hills, a 180-degree stall, a zero-G roll, and overbanked wave turns! It's guaranteed everyone will have a blast! Make sure to make a reservation before heading out to Six Flags Fiesta Texas!

Here in Austin, there’s no shortage of water parks of all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s going headfirst down a huge slide, floating in a wave pool, or even just relaxing on the shore, you’ll always be able to find thrills wherever you go. Local classics include Volente Beach , which is located on the shores of Lake Travis, and Schlitterbahn , which is in New Braunfels, has a myriad of wet and crazy water attractions of all kinds, guaranteeing fun for everyone! Recently, water parks have been popping up all over Austin, making sure that no matter where you live, you can always find a fun and new way to cool off. Check out our guide of all Austin waterparks to learn about all the fun ways to spend a hot summer day! Make sure to check out which water parks are open and which ones are closed before planning a getaway with family and friends!

22 miles from Austin

Climb aboard one of Austin Steam Trains’ vintage trains for an adventure that perfectly blends the past with the present. Austin Steam Train offers a variety of tours with beer and wine tastings, tales of murder mysteries, and fun rides. So punch in your ticket and ride on the Bertram Flyer or Hill Country Flyer, and enjoy seeing the Hill Country from a different perspective. You can also bring your kids for a more kid-friendly ride on a Big Adventures Tour with Thomas the Train or take a ride on The Bertram Flyer! Touring with Austin Steam Trains is the perfect way to spend time with your family or have an exciting day trip with friends. Make sure to make a reservation before taking a ride on the steam train!

77 miles from Austin

Best way to see the Alamo? Skip the touristy part and stay north of the Riverwalk loop at the chic Hotel Havana (same owners as Hotel San José). Grab a bite at the hotel restaurant, Ocho , then head downstairs for a cocktail in their secret room. After dinner, see a show at the historic Aztec Theatre or enjoy people watching on the Riverwalk where you can take your drink to go! When the clock strikes, midnight don’t forget to stop by the lively bar, Howl at the Moon , for a night of fun by singing pop songs with dueling pianos!

80 miles from Austin

The Hill Country wine region is one of the most visited wine areas in the US with up to 5 million visitors each year. For us Texans, it comes to us as no surprise. There are numerous vineyards to discover, which can take a while. No worries though, Texas Wine Tours has your back! Bring your friends, jump on one of their tour buses or rent one of their limos and discover multiple vineyards in one day! You can even customize your tour by stopping by a few of your favorites vineyards like Spicewood Vineyards , Becker Vineyards , and Sister Creek . It's the perfect way to have super fun bachelorette parties, girlfriend getaways, or large gatherings who want a memorable tour and getaway!

40 miles from Austin

Prepare for high-flying fun as you harness up and glide through the air on Wimberley Zipline's thrilling, action-packed zipline adventure. This incredible adventure gives you a bird’s eye view of the surrounding hills, meadows, and canyons. Their course consists of 10 zip lines, each line ranging in length from 150 feet to 900 feet for a mile of thrilling zip-line fun! Experience a rush like never before as you soar over canyons and creeks with breathtaking views of the Wimberley Valley. 

Map of Day Trips and Weekend Getaways From Austin

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How to Plan the Perfect Weekend in Austin Texas: 3 Days in Austin Itinerary

last Updated: May 18, 2023 austin texas

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Texas and looking for the best way to spend a weekend in Austin?! Expect spring-fed watering holes. Live music. Iconic murals. Oh, and you can’t forget about that mouthwatering smoky barbecue brisket. The perfect Austin weekend getaway guide, coming right up!

Austin, Texas: Home to the Texas Longhorns, University of Texas, popular music and film festivals (like SXSW and Austin City Limits), and yes, all those delicious food trucks. Plus breakfast tacos, fuzzy little bats, and just general weirdness. You could visit Austin time and time again and never get bored. But if it’s your first time, you wanna make sure you plan the best Austin weekend trip possible!

If you’re looking for a colorful city full of vibrant culture, eclectic energy, and all the art and instagram spots you could want, you’ll be pleasantly pleased with all that Austin has to offer. All my (wildly high) expectations were met and then some. There’s a reason it’s recently become a popular spot for young professionals to move to, and a great Austin weekend getaway for couples, bachelorette parties, and girls trips!

I first spent a weekend in Austin in 2015, and loved every minute of it. So when my friends and I recently scored cheap tickets for a long weekend in Austin, we jumped on that chance and booked them right up! I mean, the city is constantly evolving and changing, so there’s always something new to see and do, and especially eat!

Before we get into the weekend in Austin itinerary, here’s a bunch of planning tools and logistics to keep in mind before you book that ticket!

Weekend in Austin Logistics

Where is austin and how to get there.

First of all, where exactly is Austin anyways?! The city is kinda smack-dab in the middle of Central Texas right on the Colorado River. It’s about 80 miles northeast of San Antonio, 200 miles southwest of Dallas, and about 160 miles west of Houston. 

And get this — it’s the southernmost state capital in the contiguous 48 states and the 13th most populous city in the United States.

Flying : When you fly into Austin, you’ll be heading to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, sometimes referred to as ABIA (airport code AUS). ABIA serves the Greater Austin metropolitan area, and thankfully is located only ~5 miles southeast of Downtown Austin! The airport has recently been expanded with a second terminal, meaning more and more nonstop flights from around the country!

Unfortunately, airfare to Austin is usually pretty pricey. Coming from the West Coast (specifically San Francisco), expect to pay at least $400 to $500 round trip. And these are typically with stops. 

BUT if you are super flexible, you may be able to score a sweet deal. I was recently able to fly to Austin for under $150 roundtrip NONSTOP! Practically unheard of — so I knew it was fate and had to go! Always be on the lookout for airfare deals (signing up for your preferred airlines’ emails usually helps you get notified of special discounts going on).

Trains and Buses: Coming from elsewhere in Texas (or from a nearby state)? Check out Amtrak’s train schedule and/or Megabus or Greyhound buses. But if you only have a weekend in Austin, it may not be worth it to spend half the time on a train or bus!

How to Get to Downtown Austin from the Airport

Uber : Ubers are quick and easy from ABIA, with rides to downtown taking less than 20 minutes. Depending on timing though, beware of surge pricing, as they can get kinda pricey (especially if it’s raining).

Capital Metro Bus : Since Ubers can be kinda expensive (especially if you’re traveling to/from the airport solo), consider taking the bus! Capital Metro runs buses to downtown Austin, UT, and Mueller every 15 minutes from the airport along Route 20 Manor Road/Riverside! Just make sure to factor in some extra time since it takes about 45 minutes or so (compared to the short 15 minutes via car). 

But at only $1.25 (yes one dollar, 25 cents), it’s by far the cheapest way to get downtown from the airport (or vice versa). Two of my friends took the bus and they said it was super easy and efficient, as well as crazy cheap! Find more information and bus routes here and here . If you’re at the airport, just look for the spectacular neon guitar bus stop!

When to Visit Austin

Austin is a year-round destination with short mild winters (it rarely gets below 50F!) and super pleasant springs and falls. The good news? With more than 300 days of sun each year, there’s no horrible time to visit the city (…but keep reading). 

The bad news? The summers are long, hot, and downright scorching. If you’re not a fan of temps in the triple digits, avoid July through August, and steer clear of September and June too. October to May are absolutely beautiful, but come with the occasional rainstorm in some months.

A few other things to keep in mind when deciding when to plan your Austin weekend getaway:

• Rain : The wettest months of the year are May, October, and June (in that order). Definitely bring an umbrella and/or rain jacket. Thunderstorms do happen, but pretty rarely and when they do happen, they seldom last all day.
• Bats : The famous bats only fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge from March to October. If this is on your Austin itinerary, visit then!
• Festivals : Hoping to come for one of Austin’s big festivals (like SXSW or Austin City Limits)? Promise me you’ll book your hotel way in advance — room rates skyrocket and get sold out months beforehand. Not looking to partake in all the fun? Don’t accidentally come during a major conference/festival — check to see what’s going on in the city before booking your flights!

Spring/Fall: March – May, September – October (High Season)

The spring and fall are peak seasons for visiting Austin, and for good reason! There’s picture-perfect weather, the kids are in school, and the temps are just right (the scorching temps of the summer haven’t arrived just yet, and the winter chill is gone). Expect bright blue skies, pleasant temps of mid-70s to low-80s°F, and even wildflowers if you come in early spring (late March to April).

But because of this, you’ll see the most crowds and hotel rates are at their highest. You’ll wanna plan in advance.

Also — this is when Austin hosts it’s most popular festivals, like South by Southwest (in March) and Austin City Limits (in late September/early October). So… if you’re not looking to visit during these world-famous festivals (trust me, the city’s absolutely wild during these times), plan your travel around these dates.

For reference, we planned our Austin weekend getaway for late October/early November, and had beautiful weather (although a tad hotter than we were expecting), and crowds seemed average to minimal.

Summer: late June — August (Low Season)

Summer in Austin is more than a little toasty – it’s absolutely sizzling! If you don’t love triple digit temps, stay away. Temperatures are SCORCHING, and just a short walk down the street can be hot and miserable (make sure you stay hydrated). With that being said, unless you really love super hot weather (who are you, haha?!), you probably don’t wanna plan your weekend in Austin during the summer. I warned you!

August is the hottest month in Austin, so I’d stay away from the city if you’re not used to scorching temps (with an average temp of around 96°F and loads of humidity, you’ll be dripping constantly). If you do find yourself with a long weekend in Austin during summer, make sure to include a few watering holes into your Austin itinerary! You might end up staying in your bathing suit all day!

The good news is that since it’s the low season, hotel rates will be at their lowest and crowds will be minimal. Just be prepared for a hot and sweaty summer! And keep hydrated!

Winter: November — February (Shoulder Season)

Winters in Austin are much more tolerable than the scorching summers. And this season is considered shoulder season in the sense that most visitors have left and hotels are less expensive. Score!

Although it’s the chillest time of year here, the temps are still warmer than most places in the US (making it one of the best winter trips in the USA !). And chilly is all relative, because low-to-mid 60s°F is hardly cold, especially if you’re coming from the snowy Northeast, haha.

But winter in Texas can be finicky. Austin see’s snow on occasion while the next week may reach highs of 70°F, so you kinda never know what you’re gonna get until you go. Packing layers is an absolute must! Winter nights can dip into the 40s, so if you’re planning on going out to experience Austin’s nightlife, make sure to bring a warm jacket.

Popular Festivals and Conferences in Austin

I normally don’t include festivals in my weekend city guides, but since there’s SO many and they will undoubtedly affect your weekend trip to Austin, here you go! I’m sure you’ve heard of the most popular festivals in Austin, but there’s actually way more than those! Here’s just a small sampling of them:

• The Austin Marathon: This race draws more than 20,000 runners from around the world. Hmm.. I should convince my husband to run it so I can spend another weekend in Austin soon, haha. (February)
• South by Southwest (SXSW) : A massive conference and arts festival and easily one of Austin’s biggest events of the year with the latest and greatest in the music and film industries. And you can’t forget about all the performances — more than 1,000 bands perform! (March)
• Austin City Limits Music Festival: Come party with 70,000 of your closest friends in Zilker Park with performances by more than 100 bands plus lots of local eats. On my USA bucket list! (October)
• Old Settler’s Music Festival: Come celebrate the best of Americana, bluegrass, and roots music — you know it’s good when it’s been going on for more than 30 years. (October)
• Austin Food + Wine Festival: Showcases the best innovative cuisine from renowned chefs and top-rated restaurants – from Central Texas and across the country. A must for any foodie! (November)

If you’re not visiting Austin for a festival, I highly advise you to google your Austin dates to see if there’s any major conferences/festivals going on. Because if there are, well, things will be more than a tad crazy (my advice – pick a different weekend in Austin to visit).

How to Get Around Austin

Walking : Downtown Austin is very walkable, as is South Congress/Lamar and the UT Campus. But you’ll need a way to get from neighborhood to neighborhood. We typically walked as much as we could, and relied on ride shares when it was too hot to walk long distances or when the walk was just far too long in general. 

Ride shares : Uber and Lyft are all around Austin, so you shouldn’t have a hard time finding a car. We found most rides to be under $10, and drivers were very friendly with lots of local tips. 

Do note that there’s been a lot of controversy around Uber and other ride sharing in Austin, and ride shares were actually on a year long hiatus due to strict regulations not too long ago. With this being said, always have a back-up plan during your weekend in Austin just in case!

Public transit — Capital Metro: Thankfully, Austin’s got a pretty decent public transit system (unlike the rest of Texas). The Capital Metro (usually called Cap-Metro by locals) has lines operating all around the city, even to and from the airport — all for $1.25. Think you’ll be using the bus at least twice a day? Grab a day pass for only $2.50 (less than the price of a single subway ride in New York City )!

Find all bus routes here ; the high-frequency lines have service every 15 minutes or sooner.

Scooters and bikes: Just like in San Diego , we saw scooters everywhere around Austin. Currently Lime, Bird, and Wheels operate in Austin, but we primarily saw Bird scooters. Make sure to download the app beforehand.

But if you don’t trust yourself on a scooter (maybe you’re clumsy like me…), check out Austin B-Cycle, Austin’s bike-share program. With over 70 stations in Central Austin, you can easily pick up and drop off bikes all around the city.

Renting a car: Honestly, I think the cons of having a car far outweigh any pros. If you’re following my Austin weekend getaway itinerary to a T, public transit and ride shares (and walking!) will suffice. Parking is difficult in the buzzy neighborhoods, traffic is bad, and hotels charge an arm and a leg for overnight parking.

But there’s one silver lining — gas is dirt cheap (and commonly less than half the price on the West Coast). Unless you’re planning on making a few day trips from Austin, I wouldn’t bother with renting a car. Save that money for more barbecue!

Where to Stay in Austin

• Canopy by Hilton Austin Downtown (where we stayed and we absolutely loved it!)
• The Driskill (one of the spookiest places in Austin!)
• The LINE Austin (super trendy and where I wanna stay next time!)
• W Austin (with a luxury spa and elegant outdoor pool)

• South Congress Hotel (one the best boutique hotels in Austin)
• Austin Motel (another trendy spot right on South Congress Ave)
• Hotel San Jose (a bungalow-style hotel in a lush garden)
• Fairmont Austin (great views of Lady Bird Lake here!)
• Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt (the pool and chic decor look awesome)

Is a Long Weekend in Austin Enough?

Personally, I felt pretty satisfied with our long weekend in Austin. It was the perfect amount of time to see the main attractions of the city, eat a bunch of barbecue, watch a few sunsets, spend ample time on South Congress Ave, and even venture off to some more obscure photo spots in Austin .

However, if you wanna take any day trips from Austin, to say the Hamilton Pool (on my bucket list for next time), Hill Country (definitely see the bluebonnets in the spring), and/or Lockhart (for what’s considered the best bbq in all of Texas), you’ll wanna tack on an extra day or two.

A Note on Austin BBQ

Austin is known for its barbecue – we all knew that. Meaning you’ve gotta have at least one stuff-yourself-silly meal full of brisket and ribs. 

But not all barbecue is created equal. You’ll wanna do your research ahead of time (thankfully I already did it for you). 🙂 While nothing is necessarily bad here, if you’ve only got a weekend in Austin (or 3 days), you wanna make sure what you’re eating is the best of the best.

Franklin BBQ is by far the most popular, but with lines literally snaking around the block, you don’t wanna spend half your day waiting for bbq. If you do, come prepared with a fold-up chair and lots of games, because the line easily takes 3-4 hours on a good day. 

Now let’s get what you’ve actually come here for – an absolutely perfect weekend in Austin itinerary, crafted by yours truly. <3

3 Days in Austin Itinerary

While you of course can’t see and do it all with only a long weekend in Austin, you’ll still be able to go shopping and have a bite to eat on trendy South Congress Ave, watch the fuzzy little bats fly out at dusk, and visit a museum or two! And of course eat a few pounds of bbq and visit a bunch of murals in Austin !

Weekend in Austin Itinerary Day 1

Morning and Afternoon: South Congress Neighborhood

Start off your weekend in Austin with a few hours on trendy South Congress Ave, known as SOCO by locals.

First stop: Jo’s Coffee in South Congress (there’s a few locations, so make sure you come here)! Stop for some caffeine and a few of their breakfast tacos. The tacos do run out, which is why I’m telling you to make Jo’s your first stop of the day in SoCo. Try the migas tacos (with crunchy tortilla chips), the hashbrown taco, and bean and cheese taco (my favorite). 

The Iced Turbo is their signature drink (a sweet and creamy coffee drink with coffee and hazelnut), but I always get the Belgium Bomber (the famous Iced Turbo mixed with cold brew, making it not as sweet and creamy). And don’t miss a photo with the iconic “I love you so much” mural on the side of the building (you can’t miss it!) – it’s easily one of the best murals in Austin (in my opinion).

Once you’re all fueled up, it’s time for some shopping (and more) in the vibrant neighborhood of South Congress. Think funky vintage shops, chic boutiques, iconic murals, and cool bars. We could have easily spent all day here, but if you’re only spending a weekend in Austin and tight on time, you can still see a lot in a few hours.

To make it super easy, here’s my favorite spots in South Congress:

• Allens Boots: Walk in and smell that leather, then stroll down the aisles full of cowboy boots in every style and color imaginable (there’s over 4,000 pairs of boots here). It’s such an iconic shop in SOCO, and it’s fun, too! Try on as many boots as you want — some of them costing over $900! Don’t be surprised if an hour goes by and you’re still mesmerized by all the boots!

• Parts & Labor: This shop in SoCo is so unique and special — everything in the store is designed exclusively by Texas artists! Not only will you find creative T-shirts, jewelry, handmade cards & other quirky gifts, but there’s literally always something new. The inventory changes on the regular, and you really never know what you’ll find! How fun is that?! A great place to pick up an Austin souvenir. 
• Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds: This shop is so totally Austin. There’s wild costumes and outrageous clothing, and a huge assortment of accessories (think colorful wigs, outlandish jewelry, full-on face masks, long gloves, etc). The store is over 8,000 square feet, so you can definitely peruse for a while if this stuff’s your jam.
• Go mural hunting: Some of my favorite murals in Austin can be found on South Congress. You’ve already seen the famous red script “I Love You So Much” on Jo’s, but make sure to check out Love from Austin, Willie for President, and of course the Legendary Memories SoCo mural. Check out this post if you’re looking for more Austin photo spots.

• Tesoros Trading Company: A funky shop with tons of folk art, furniture, jewelry & curios from around the globe. Such eye popping colors. It’s kinda pricey here, but everything’s authentic and well-made.
• Big Top Candy Shop: Exactly what all your old-school colorful candy shop dreams are made of. I especially loved the old-school jelly bean dispenser, as well as all the circus themed sweets. If you’re thirsty, try an Italian cream soda from the old-fashioned soda fountain – they’re really delicious and super sweet!

Lunch and dessert in South Congress:

You’re most likely pretty hungry by now, and thankfully there’s lots of great restaurants right here in South Congress. You can either grab a decent sized meal at one spot, or share a few things with friends like I did on my last Austin weekend getaway (it’s more fun that way)!

• Home Slice Pizza: Craving pizza? Home Slice is such an iconic Austin landmark — you’ve gotta try a slice of their New York-style pizza. With so many toppings to choose from, you’ll wanna grab a white slice as well as red!
• Gourdoughs Big. Fat. Donuts.: Ohhh Gourdough’s. I’ve been dreaming about these decadent donuts since my first visit to Austin in 2015. They’re absolutely huge and ridiculously insane, so plan to share if you’re eating elsewhere as well. The menu’s huge, but my favorites are Miss Shortcake, The Baby Rattler, and the Motherclucker! 

• Elizabeth Street Cafe: Such a cute spot if you want something a bit different than your usual Texas fare — the cafe specializes in French and Vietnamese cuisine. 
• Amy’s Ice Creams: Have you really been to Austin if you haven’t had a few scoops of Amy’s?! It’s the OG of ice creams in Austin afterall! Try some of their inventive flavors in a handmade cone — so delicious. Psst — there’s a few around town, so if you don’t make it to the location on South Congress, you’re bound to see another one later on.
• South Congress Cafe: Any place that’s known for their Bloody Marys and carrot-cake French toast gets 5-stars in my book. And psst — there’s also beignets and croque madame. Don’t miss the great happy hour out on their patio!

Late-afternoon: Before leaving buzzy South Congress, make sure to stop by the famous “Greetings From Austin” Mural! Just note you may need to wait in line as it’s a super popular spot!

With it’s 40’s postcard vibe and colorful vintage letters, it’s easily the most photographed work of art in all of Austin. And I just LOVE it ! Head across the street for another of the best murals in Austin — “You Belong Among the Wildflowers”.

Night : Bat Watching from the South Congress Bridge

Did you know that Austin’s got the largest urban bat colony in the world (yes, the world!)? Time to partake in all that fun! From March to October, people line up on the Congress Avenue Bridge to watch the 1.5 MILLION Mexican free-tailed bats fly out from under the bridge. 

While the bats emerge nightly around dusk, plan to get there about 30 minutes before sunset because you never know the exact moment they’ll fly out.

Do note that some bat shows will be better than others — you may see an insane surreal dark cloud of them all at once, or they may exit the bridge only a few at a time (making for a not-so-spectacular show).

And even if you don’t get a spectacular bat viewing (like us), the sunset is so gorgeous over Lady Bird Lake! Pro Tip: Go to P6 (at the Line Hotel) to watch the bats fly out with a cocktail in hand – I so wish we had done that! We got HUGE agua frescas from Veracruz All Natural (where we’re grabbing breakfast tacos tomorrow morning), and they were delicious.

Austin Weekend Trip Day 2

Morning : Start off day 2 of your Austin weekend getaway with more breakfast tacos! This time, from Veracruz All Natural. We loved their signature Migas Taco (with tortilla chips stuffed inside), the El Traditional Taco, and the green juice. Everything is authentic with all-natural ingredients and homemade (even the salsas), so you know you’re getting good stuff. 

Late-Morning : Get out on the water!

Once you’re fueled up for the morning, it’s time to experience some of Austin’s outdoor fun! And if you’re visiting when it’s hot out, you’ll definitely wanna get out on the water for a bit. One of the best ways to beat the heat by far. Since Austin’s located right on the Colorado River, there’s a bunch of options to choose from:

Option 1: Stand-up paddle boarding/canoeing on Lady Bird Lake: Take part in Austin’s large outdoor lifestyle (absolutely essential to any weekend in Austin) and try some stand-up paddling or canoeing on the lake! Lady Bird Lake is actually part of the Colorado River, separating North and South Austin with great city skyline views while paddling! Rent SUPs or kayaks/canoes at Rowing Dock, Live Love Paddle, or the Austin Paddle Shack.

Option 2: Walk over the Barton Creek Pedestrian Bridge and along Barton Creek: This is what we did! We loved following the dirt path along Barton Creek, filled with tons of views and cute little turtles sunning themselves on the rocks! And if you’re one of the brave ones, throw on your bathing suit and jump on the many rope swings! 

If you’re up for it, you can rent a stand-up paddle or canoe at Zilker Park Boat Rentals. Note that blue-green algae toxins have been detected in the creek, so don’t plan on going swimming here. You’ll see signs along the creek reminding you of that little detail if it’s not safe.

Option 3: Take a dip in Barton Springs Pool : Super hot day? Cool off in the refreshing waters of the Barton Springs pool, a year-round swimming pool with temps of 68 degrees no matter the month. Yes, it’s man-made, but the waters are spring-fed! Do note there’s a fee to enter (although it’s pretty reasonable for under $10 per person for a day pass), so plan to spend a few hours here.

Afternoon : Lunch and Zilker Park

Lunch : Time for lunch after a busy morning at the water. If you want something close by, I highly recommend checking out Barton Springs Picnic — an iconic food truck park right near Barton Springs.

Such a classic Austin experience with an iconic “old Austin” vibe. I had a fried chicken and avocado cone from The Mighty Cone, and boy did it fill me up. My friends had some Thai food, and they loved theirs, while another had a gyro and that was great as well! Seems like you can’t go wrong. There’s even a “Dog Treat Truck” with all things for dogs — how fun!

If you want something a bit different, Chuy’s is super close by as well! They serve up authentic Tex-Mex food in an eclectic spot full of color and lots of kitschy personality with tons of Elvis touches. Super hungry? Try the “big as yo’ face” burrito!

Zilker Park and Zilker Botanical Garden: The park is so close to Barton Springs and the food truck park, so it’d be a shame to miss it! If you come in the spring, you’ll see lots of butterflies everywhere and all the flowers blooming. Zilker Park is over 350 acres, so you obviously won’t see all of it, but it’s still worth a quick visit. 

You can check out the Zilker Botanical Garden (with lots of streams, waterfalls and Koi-filled ponds,) and the Austin Nature and Science Center (don’t miss the hands-on nature exhibits), or simply hang out on the grass and relax for a bit. The Umlauf Sculpture Garden is nearby so make sure you check that out too!

Dinner : Barbecue! 

This weekend in Austin itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a good old Texas barbecue joint. Smoky, melt-in-your-mouth brisket (that’s perfectly pink and juicy on the inside), chipotle slaw, cheesy mac n cheese, and alllll the pickles you could want.

And since Franklin’s BBQ frequently sells out by noon, I’ve got some other (almost equally as good) options for you. Both spots have your iconic Texas bbq, all served on a silver tray. Get about a ½ pound of meat per person (give or take depending on how hungry everyone is), and share a few sides.

Terry Black’s Barbecue: Traditional Texas barbecue at it’s best. Definitely get at least a bit of brisket — I couldn’t believe just how tender it was! There’s even a mural reading “brisket is king” inside and outside. We were mesmerized as our pitmaster cut our slabs of meat. Everything is made from scratch, and all the meat is smoked in-house, low and slow. Don’t miss the banana pudding – it’s my absolute favorite!

La Barbecue: One of the best bbq spots in all of Austin. Many people consider it a backup when Franklin’s runs out, so you know it’s good. They specialize in Central Texas-style barbecue, slathering the meats with salty, savory rubs. Think pork ribs falling off the bone, spicy sausage, mouth watering brisket, and mustard and dill flavored potato salad. I unfortunately haven’t made it here just yet, but I hear it’s outta this world. Psst – La Barbecue has small cups of free beer, you just have to ask for it (and give a tip).

Night: Experience Austin’s Nightlife Scene

It’s time to get out on the town! Austin does have the reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World afterall! And thankfully, there’s tons of nightlife options in Austin – really something for everyone.

Option 1: Dirty Sixth (aka East Sixth Street)

Come here if you’re looking for wild-and-touristy party vibes. And a whole lotta shenanigans (as well as questionable late night pizza and unruly chaos). It’s the original entertainment section of Austin, with tons of eclectic dive bars, lots of live music, and delicious food trucks. 

It’s a long stretch of eternally hopping bars, and they don’t die down until the wee hours of the morning. They don’t call it Dirty Sixth for nothing! It’s basically the Austin equivalent of New Orleans ’ Bourbon Street and San Diego ’s Gaslamp Quarter, with a little bit of the Las Vegas strip thrown in there for good measure. What a combo, right?!

Technically, Dirty Sixth stretches from Congress Avenue (to the west) to I-35 (to the east). If this sounds like your kinda scene, here’s a few spots to check out: 

• The Jackalope : Don’t miss one of their specialty sake bombs and a photo with the giant rabbit-antelope statue
• Casino El Camino: Try the Bloody Mary — the garnishes are wild! Yes, chicken nuggets and corn dogs hanging off the side of your glass (great to help the impounding hangover).
• Shakespeare’s Pub: Feel like you’re back in your college days with $5 pitchers! An Austin staple.
• Midnight Cowboy: Fancy cocktails in a secret-speakeasy kinda place (with no screaming college kids) — just be sure to make a reservation in advance. A bit different than your typical Dirty 6th experience.

Option 2: Rainey Street

Dirty 6th not your thing? I totally get it — the wild shenanigans aren’t mine either. Instead, head on over to Rainey Street, which caters to a slightly older, more laid-back clientele. The whole area is full of old craftsman houses that have since turned into bungalow bars and upscale eateries. It’s one of Austin’s newest nightlife districts, just blocks away from Dirty 6th, and it’s so cute! A great option if you want something a tad more low-key but still poppin’.

I went here on my first visit to Austin in 2015, but since learned it’s gotten way more popular and touristy than it used to be. Still super fun though! There’s still string-light covered patios, food trucks, and all the craft cocktails you could want. All in the adorable little bungalow houses!

A few spots to check out on Rainey Street (although you could just walk up and down the street and still have a great time!):

• Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden : It’s always busy here, and for good reason — everyone’s grabbing a spicy andouille sausage and choosing from the 100+ beers on tap (no hard liquor here).
• Clive Bar: Come here for the mezcal! And then find the semi-secret bar in a small shack out back — I kinda wanna go next time!
• Parlor Room: As instagrammable as it gets on Rainey Street. There’s a hot pink living room, a black and white tiled bar, and a giant  DRINK UP sign out on the patio.
• Lucille : Hammocks, lots of outdoor seating, and cozy indoor booths. There’s also fancy drinks!
• The Container Ba r: Yes, it’s exactly as it sounds — a bunch of shipping containers stacked together with lots of outdoor patio space.

Option 3: Country Bars and Honky-Tonks!

You’re here in Texas — why not get back to it’s legendary country roots?! You know you wanna dust off those boots and bust out the cowboy hat — it’s time to get immersed in some honky tonk culture! A great option for any weekend in Austin if you wanna check out the famous, longstanding honky-tonks and country music! 

A few legendary dance halls where you can work on your two-steppin’ skills:

• The White Horse : Try out your Texas two-step and get in on the boot-scootin’! This space is absolutely legendary, boasting live country jams and some of the best two-steppers around. No joke — you’ll wonder how they move that fast. Take a lesson for only $5 on Saturdays (and check out their famous Lone Star beer/whiskey deal). It’s hip and upbeat, and there’s even a taco truck outside.
• Broken Spoke: As old-fashioned as they come! And known to be one of the best two-steppin’ spots since 1964. They’ve got boot-scootin’ dance lessons here too (Wednesday to Saturday nights). But whatever you do, don’t miss the chicken fried steak — it’s legendary for a reason!
• The Little Longhorn Saloon : An authentically old-school honky tonk beer joint and as Austin as it gets. Come for free chili dogs (did we say FREE?!) and Chicken Sh*t Bingo every Sunday from 4 to 8pm — yes, you read that right (the chickens poop on a huge bingo board). Kinda like what I saw in Belize ; absolutely wild!

Austin Weekend Getaway Day 3

Morning : You’ve Got Options!

Option 1: You’re My Butter Half Mural and Surroundings

After a potentially wild night out on the town, take it slow and head north to a different part of town. The main reason we ventured over here — for the super iconic and cheery “You’re My Butter Half” mural! Considering my friends and I were kinda matching — unintentionally I might add — this mural was just perfect for us! It’s easily one of the most instagrammable spots in Austin , and one I couldn’t wait to see in person after missing it on my last visit.

While you’re over here, grab some breakfast at Bird Bird Biscuit for some buttery buttermilk breakfast sandwiches and some ice cream at Amy’s if you want something sweet.

Option 2: Guided Tour

If you had a low-key night (or murals just aren’t your thing), head out on a tour this morning! There’s quite a few to choose from, including these favorites:

• Austin Art Walk: The art scene is constantly changing here in Austin, and this guided walking tour takes you to all the best spots in East Austin! You’ll learn about the artists and their artwork, and of course have plenty of time to take all those Austin instagram photos ! 
• Best of Austin: This tour is literally what it seems – all the best spots in Austin! The 2-hour adventure gives you an excellent overview of the major landmarks, parks, and hidden gems. And you’ll even take a guided Capitol tour before stopping at Austin’s favorite food trucks. 
• Electric Bike Sightseeing Tour : Have you ever been on an electric bike? All the easaility of getting around without any work (my kinda exercise, haha). This electric bike sightseeing tour takes you to Austin’s favorite murals, landmarks, and history including the Austin skyline, State Capitol Building, Rainey Street and 6th Street, Barton Springs, and the University of Texas campus.
• Double Decker Sightseeing Tour: Travel on a loop around the city that passes by top landmarks in Austin’s downtown area, including 6th Street, The Museum of the Weird, The Driskill Hotel, Texas State Capitol, and the Texas Governor’s Mansion.  

Option 3: Franklin BBQ  

Wait in line for Franklin BBQ – it’s famous for a reason and a true Austin experience. Franklin is known for its succulent wood-smoked brisket, and it’s easily the most popular bbq spot in all of Austin. There’s really nothing better than brisket at Franklin’s.

But because of this, be prepared to wait in line for no joke, 3-4 hours — and yes, I’m dead serious. Either bring your own lawn chair or rent one out, bring a deck of cards to play with friends (or people you meet on the line), and lots of water to keep hydrated (especially in the heat of the summer). The wait will undoubtedly be a little longer on the weekends, so plan to come during the week if you can.

And once it’s your turn to order, don’t be shy — get some brisket, pulled pork, and whatever other smoked meats tickle your fancy.  Come early because once the meats sell out, there’s no more for the day. 

Is Franklin BBQ worth the wait? I think it’s worth doing once, but I wouldn’t wait on every visit or if you only have a day or two. The wait alone will easily take up at least half the day, and there’s so many other things to do on an Austin weekend getaway!

Afternoon : Texas State Capitol Building, Museums, and 6th Street

If you haven’t already seen the Texas State Capitol Building on one of the tours above, it’s time to head over there! 

We just walked around the perimeter of the building, but there’s actually free 30-minute guided tours (M-F 9:30-3:30, and weekends 12:30-3:30). Although the tour is pretty short, expect to learn lots about the building (it’s made almost entirely of granite and marble!), Texas history, and the legislature. Did you know the building is almost 15 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol building?!

 The park surrounding the capitol is absolutely gorgeous, with lots of sculptures and plaques outside for learning too. So if you end up visiting outside of tour hours (like we did), don’t fret — the capitol building is still worth some time!

Next up, a museum or two! The most popular ones around here are the Blanton Museum of Art and Bullock Texas State History Museum, and you can easily walk to both right from the capitol building.

We chose to visit the Blanton Museum of Art (Austin’s largest art museum) and absolutely loved the colors and art pieces. But whatever you do, don’t miss “Austin” by Ellsworth Kelly. It’s basically a rainbow-bright Austin sanctuary! Just look at those colorful stained glass windows and smooth architectural elements. 

Psst — if you’ve got a teacher or student ID, make sure to bring it! I flashed my coveted school staff ID and got completely free entry! I love when museums recognize our hard work! Active military also receive free admission as well.

If history’s more your thing, head over to The Bullock Texas State History Museum instead. It’s the state’s official history museum, with three floors of exhibition galleries and even an IMAX theater. Basically everything you could ever want to know about Texas history — a complete historical overload!

Downtown/6th Street: You may have hung out on 6th Street at night, but there’s a whole bunch of things to do here during the day as well! Hungry? Definitely check out Taquero Mucho (for pink tortillas and loads of IG worthy corners) and Torchy’s Tacos (order the fried avocado tacos and spicy queso). We actually went to both and shared a few things!

Once you’re all filled up, you’ve got a lot to choose from! Here’s my top picks;

• Historic 6th Street Mural: Don’t mess with Texas! This mural pays homage to Austin as the “Live Music Capital of the World”, and you’ll see all the things that make it great on the mural itself. From its history to it’s rockin’ music scene. The mural is massive — with bold typography and color blocking; it’s literally hard to miss! One of my favorite murals in Austin , and a must for anyone looking for the best photo spots.
• The Contemporary Austin – Jones Center: If you haven’t had your fill of art yet, here’s another art museum for ya! This one focuses on contemporary art, and since the exhibitions change a few times a year, you never know what you’ll see!
• Tau Ceti Rainbow Mural: Josef Kristo Foletti, you are a technicolor, multi-dimensional marvel! Just look at this thing! I especially love all the gradients; it’s just so cool and oh so colorful! And it’s even Austin’s tallest public artwork at over 10 stories high!

• Here Nor There: Did someone say secret speakeasy?! Here Nor There was easily a highlight during our weekend in Austin, and we LOVED our globally inspired cocktails. You need to make a reservation in advance, so be sure to head to their website and follow all the directions!
• Museum of the Weird: To say Austin is weird is a huge understatement. Here at Museum of the Weird, you’ll learn about the famous haunted hotel in Austin (The Driskill, where you can still stay the night today), see “live” models of two headed pigs and other weird animals, and even witness a pretty weird show! If you’ve been, you know what I mean. Not everyone can handle an electric pulse on their tongue… We visited the museum on our first weekend in Austin and it’s definitely pretty memorable… haha.
• Mexic-Arte Museum: The museum showcases Mexican and Latino art — so much color and vibrancy here! It’s pretty small (and only $7), but they pack a lot of art into the small space so you can really see a lot in just an hour or so.
• Voodoo Doughnut – 6th Street: Originally from Portland , if you love creative (and quirky) donuts and pink decor, definitely make a stop here! Don’t miss the original Bacon Maple Bar — it’s absolutely delicious!

Night : Sunset at Mount Bonnell

Throw on your sneakers — it’s time to watch the famous sunset at Mount Bonnell. Yes, you’ll need to climb up about 100 steps, but I promise it’s well worth it for the stunning sunset views! Mount Bonnell is one of the highest points in Austin at 781 feet, and you’ll get sweeping views of Lake Austin, the city of Austin, and the surrounding hills.

On my first visit we went during the day AND for sunset later on — we just loved it so much we had to return for all the pastel colors.

Psst — Take the short path on the RIGHT to get clear views of the lake/river (the left still has a great view but there’s a big fence blocking part of it).

Mount Bonnell is a little ways away from Downtown Austin, so if you don’t have a car, you’ll need to call an Uber and ask to get dropped off at the bottom of the steps. If I remember correctly we simply put in “Mount Bonnell” and ended up in the right spot!

Late-night: Ghost Tour 

If you’re still rearing to go (and are intrigued by Austin’s haunted paranormal history), sign up for a late-night ghost walking tour! The tours explore Downtown Austin’s most haunted places, from the “Museum of Weird” to the haunted streets of South Congress. 

Find more information, reviews, and book your Austin ghost tour here!

So there ya have it – my ultimate weekend in Austin itinerary! What are you most excited to do (and of course eat!) in this quirky city?!

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February 1, 2022 at 10:32 pm

Hi, great article. I love Austin and wish I had brought my kayak along the last time I was there. Lots of great places to explore.

July 7, 2022 at 8:02 pm

What a horrible way to describe summers in Austin texas. All I read was humid, hot, scorching, sizzling, stay away! Most people don’t mind the heat and know when traveling in the summer they are going to encounter the heat. They know to do water activities or indoor activities which there are plenty of in Austin.

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The 11 best day trips from Austin

Bat City is a great base for exploring the heart of the Lone Star State – just take a look at the best day trips from Austin

Photograph: Courtesy Signor Vineyards

If you wanted to call Austin the star attraction of central Texas, we wouldn’t disagree – the place is packed with fun  things to do , delicious restaurants  and seriously rowdy nightlife . But it also acts as a great base from which to explore the surrounding smaller towns and cities, which is where these day trips from Austin come in.

In under two hours from the heart of city, you can find yourself sampling Texan wines in the Hill Country or on a thrilling bike tour of the Texas White House. And did we mention all of the barbecue food the Lone Star State has to offer? There’s a lot to get stuck into.

One piece of advice before we begin: traveling around Texas usually requires access to a car, so make sure you sort out a rental before you set off. But with that done, you’ll be free to make the most of the part of Texas.

RECOMMENDED: the best things to do in Austin

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best day trips from Austin, ranked

1.  lockhart.

The main draw in Lockhart is its world-famous barbecue, with Black’s Barbecue (get the thickly barked brisket), Chisholm Trail BBQ (the three-meat plate is Lockhart's best bargain), Kreuz Market (sausage is king here) and Smitty’s Market (which has the only good barbecue sauce you'll find in town) all vying for your brisket buck. But there are plenty of other things to do if you need a little time to digest. Swim, fish and play a round of golf at nearby Lockhart State Park, get fitted for a 10-gallon hat at Texas Hatters or snap some pics in front of the historic limestone county courthouse. 

45mins by car

2.  Fredericksburg

Filled with old-world architecture, German restaurants and specialty shops, Fredericksburg has been drawing in Austin’s weekend warriors for decades. Start your adventure with a hike at Enchanted Rock , a massive pink granite formation located 17 miles outside of town. Then hire a shuttle to drive you to a winery or four. Our faves include Ab Astris , a family-owned, boutique winery that produces brilliant vintages using Texas-grown fruit, and Southhold Farm and Cellar , perched with breathtaking Hill Country views and delicious food pairings. Finish out the day with dinner at either contemporary German joint Otto’s or New American eatery Hill & Vine , both of which combine small town charm with a big city palate. If it’s summer, be sure to come home with a bag full of the region's world-famous peaches .

1hr and 25mins by car

3.  Dripping Springs

Whether you know your ryes from your malts or the differences between grapes, Dripping Springs is the place to go for a tipple. One of the things it's most famous for is the sheer amount of breweries, wineries and distilleries. Time it right and you can visit a whole bunch in one fell swoop. You’ve got Jester King ale, Desert Door sotol (a spirit made from desert spoon plant), Solaro wine, and vodka at Dripping Springs Distillery , to name a manageable amount. Of course, if you don’t drink, you can always head on down to the gloriously verdant Solstice Gardens or Hamilton Pool .

35mins by car

4.  San Antonio

The taco rivalry aside, there are hundreds of reasons why an Austinite should spend the day in San Antonio. The culinary scene is booming, with many of the best restaurants in San Antonio serving internationally inspired fare such as French Brasserie Mon Chou Chou (the desserts are beautiful), Asian-American restaurant Best Quality Daughter (try the famous Char Siu), and Caribbean street food stand Mi Roti (obvs, go roti-crazy). For those not wanting to venture too far from Texan fare, the coolest kid in town is Domingo , on the riverwalk. They’re a modern tribute to South Texas, so if you love fish tacos and a juicy steak, you’re in heaven. The arts scene is having a moment, too. The San Antonio Museum of Art  is always stellar, not to mention newbies like  Hopscotch  which combines cocktails and art for the best immersive museum experience statewide.

1hr and 20mins by car

📍 Check out the best things to do in San Antonio

5.  Bastrop

A little detox haven for those who overindulged in Austin. This small city, less than an hour's drive away, is home to the Lost Pines Spa , where you can get a massage and a herb garden salt glow before getting snap happy at the wild Dinosaur Park . Continue the nature walks through Bastrop State Park to work up an appetite, then head to Maxine’s Cafe where you can eat just about anything fried.

6.  Driftwood

Even closer to Austin than Bastrop is Driftwood. Here you can get your sommelier on at Duchman Family Winery , which uses Texan grapes, but looks like it could be straight out of Sicily. Before you get tipsy, though, go and marvel at the vast and architecturally stunning Radha Madhav Dham Hindu Temple , where they also have peacocks roaming freely. Finally, saving the best until last, venture forth to Salt Lick BBQ , a Driftwood institution that's second to none when it comes to grilling meat. It’s worth noting though that they accept cash only, so hit the ATM first.

7.  Waco

Waco saw tourism boon following HGTV’s Fixer Upper, but cribbing shiplap style at Magnolia Market is hardly the only thing to do. Learn the science behind soda at the Dr. Pepper museum ’s liquid laboratory. Meet Galapagos tortoises and capybara at the natural habitat Cameron Park Zoo . Or go back in time at the perfectly preserved postwar burger joint Health Camp . If you’re still in the mood for some shopping, you’ll find everything from scented candles to farmhouse antiques and womenswear at downtown’s Spice Village .

1hr and 35mins by car

📍 Check out the best things to do in Waco

8.  Wimberley

A little bit country and a little bit rock and roll, Wimberley doesn’t quite feel like any other town in Hill Country. Start the morning with a cold brew from Sip! on the Square and a few kolaches from the Sugar Shack Bakery , then take some selfies in front of one of the town’s 50 giant decorated boots (dubbed Bootiful Wimberley ). In the mood for shopping? Stop by shops that include foodie mecca Kiss the Cook, legendary thrift store The Bazaar , contemporary fiber craft spot Ply and interior design house Rancho Deluxe . In the summer, take a dip surrounded by old-growth cypress trees at the Blue Hole .

55mins by car

9.  Georgetown

You would never know it from the highway, but Georgetown boasts a town square that makes Back to the Future's courthouse square look shabby. There you can check out one of the visiting exhibits at Georgetown Art Center or catch a matinee musical at the Palace Theatre . The highway does have at least one great attraction, though: Inner Space Caverns offers everything from guided spelunking to group tours of their stunning caves.

10.  Johnson City

Johnson City became internationally known in the 1960s as the site of President Lyndon Johnson’s Texas White House , which has been open to history buffs since 2007. Try a bike tour with Ranch Road One, which takes you through his gorgeous gardens and ranch easily and breezily. Science lovers can geek out at Hill Country Science Mill , a super cool presentation of science with tech (think: 4D and virtual reality). If you visit during the winter holidays, almost the whole town gets into the festive spirit, so expect lights galore.

11.  New Braunfels and Gruene

If you’re going to New Braunfels, make sure you wear a swimsuit. For locals, tubing is almost a daily ritual during the summer, with both the Guadalupe and Comal rivers intersecting the town and the spring-fed Schlitterbahn water park providing a slightly less au naturale experience. Before you dip your toes in, stop by at Faust Brewing Co. for a plate of German nachos and a stainless steel growler of golden ale. Then head to Canyon Lake Marina to rent a kayak or Texas Ski Ranch for wakeboarding and waterskiing. Once you dry off, check out the assortment of novelties at Got Toys before honky-tonking at Gruene Hall ,  where greats like Lyle Lovett and George Strait got their start.

50mins by car

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13+ Weekend Trips From Dallas

Posted: February 15, 2024 | Last updated: February 15, 2024

13 Weekend Trips From Dallas

Fort Worth - Texas Motor Speedway

Around 35 Minutes From Dallas

Texas Motor Speedway is currently the fastest track on the NASCAR circuit, with speeds reaching 200 mph. Texas Motor Speedway, nicknamed "The Great American Speedway," contains 144 luxury suites, as well as the Lone Star, a members-only speedway club with a restaurant, gym center, and the Time Warner Cable Broadcast Center.

In addition to an Indy Racing League-IndyCar Series race, the stadium hosts two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Nationwide Series, and Camping World Truck Series races each year. Adult tickets are $49 and $10 for children’s tickets.

Fort Worth - Stockyards National Historic District

The Stockyards National Historic District is one of Texas's most famous tourist destinations, with historic buildings, restaurants, stores, saloons, and other attractions lining the old brick streets.

At the Fort Worth Herd, you will experience a cattle drive twice a day, see bulls and broncos battle cowboys at the weekly Stockyards Championship Rodeo, or dine on Texan steak at Cattlemen's Steak House. The pathways, roads, and sidewalks are all free to use. Admission is charged, however, to some venues and events.

Fort Worth - Sundance Square

Sundance Square is well-known for its entertainment and nightlife. Throughout the year, the area hosts concerts and festivals, and it features a variety of hotels, restaurants, condos, shops, lofts, museums, bars, clubs, a movie theater, and performing arts. Several Western-style stores sell urban apparel, decorative items, gifts, jewelry, toys, sports equipment, and artwork. Sundance Square is open to the public for free.

Shreveport, Louisiana - Mardi Gras

Around 3 Hours From Dallas

Mardi Gras is a celebration right before the season of Lent begins. In the Catholic Church, Lent is a preparatory period before Easter that is somber, reflective, and free from excess. There are multiple days of fasting. Thus, many years ago, Mardi Gras was a time to consume butter, sugar, milk, and meat...all the things that were forgone during Lent. It was also marked by large celebrations and street parties.

Today, the tradition continues in French-influenced Louisiana. Even though Northern Louisiana is much less Catholic than the Southern part of the state, Shreveport still has its share of large parades. The streets are closed. Double-decker floats line up and fill the streets. Visitors and locals alike crowd the curbs and sidewalks to catch beads, candy, and more thrown at them. It's something you have to experience at least once. Mardi Gras happens in February or March (depending upon when Easter falls).

Shreveport, Louisiana - Shreveport Aquarium

The Shreveport Aquarium offers a glimpse of marine life, which will fill you with wonder. Visitors can make their way through tropical lagoons, dark ocean caves, creaking shipwrecks, and coral reefs with bright colors. Guests can get up close and personal with jellyfish, rays, sharks, and many other species of marine life through one of several touch tanks in the aquarium. While here, you can travel the ocean's depths to see strange creatures hiding in the dark of the deepest waters...without ever leaving dry land.

Shreveport, Louisiana - Casinos!

The Bally’s Shreveport Casino & Hotel is truly an experience if you want to try your hand with lady luck while in town. This center aims to provide visitors with a premium gaming environment via a massive gaming space. It has over 50 table games, including poker, blackjack, and roulette.

If you would rather want to try one of the 1,400 slot machines, those are also available. Throughout the casino, the food is abundant, and the entertainment is never lacking. They offer live events, day and night. So stop by and wish that luck will indeed be a lady, tonight! Other nearby casinos include Sam's Town and Horseshoe Bossier City.

Austin - Live Music

Around 3 Hours 15 Minutes From Dallas

The Austin City Limits Music Event is a two-weekend music festival held at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas, on two consecutive weekends. The event is produced by Austin-based C3 Presents, which also produces Chicago's Lollapalooza. It is inspired by the KLRU/PBS music series of the same name.

Austin - BBQ Tasting

Several barbecue joints in Austin stand out from the crowd, including Franklin BBQ, Interstellar BBQ, Stiles Switch, Black's Barbecue, and Sam's BBQ. Franklin’s world-renowned brisket with peppery exterior draws Austinites from across the city. If you are aching for barbecue and music, Stubb's Bar-B-Q serves the best brisket and music. This cozy venue once hosted Johnny Cash.

Total cost varies depending on your barbecue appetite.

Austin - Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake is a 416-acre reservoir along the Colorado River, named after the wife of President Lyndon Johnson. It is one of Austin’s top recreation areas, with a 10.2-mile boardwalk circling the lake. This loop allows you to cycle around the reservoir. But the lake also has miles of trails along its shoreline, ideal for pedestrians and cyclists. Take kayaking lessons at the Texas Rowing Center on the north shore. When you’re ready, rent a kayak to explore Lady Bird Lake. This lake is close to other top tourist sites in downtown Austin. You can hit several spots in a 1-day tour of Austin. There is no admission, but renting a kayak will cost you between $15/hour and $30/hour.

Oklahoma City - Six Flags Frontier City & Hurricane Harbor

Frontier City is Oklahoma's only amusement park, and it is a terrific spot for the whole family to enjoy a good time. Over 40 acres of roller coasters, exciting games, and entertainment await tourists of all ages at this western-themed amusement park. The Silver Bullet and Diamond Back roller coasters will entice you to test gravity's limits. Family-friendly rides, water rides, and live shows inspired by the Wild West are fantastic attractions for those who prefer to stay closer to the ground.

On a hot day, cool off at Wild West Water Works, the nearby water park that is included in admission. The admission fee for attractions and museums varies, and prices are subject to change; adult admission is $39.99, children's admission is $29.99 (but free for children under the age of 2), and senior admission is $29.99.

Hurricane Harbor Oklahoma City is the perfect place to cool off during the summertime. There are 25 acres of cold pools and super-soaking slides for everyone in the family to enjoy. Bermuda Triangle, Blackbeard's Revenge, and Mega Wedgie are some of the thrilling rides. One-day tickets cost $25 to $65 and you can discover more about Hurricane Harbor Oklahoma.

Oklahoma City - Bricktown

The historically-themed guided tours offered by Bricktown Water Taxi are a fun way to see the heart of downtown Oklahoma City's Bricktown community in an enjoyable and relaxing way. Private charters and dinner cruises are also provided, and the water taxi is wheelchair accessible and convenient for tourists of all ages.

The Water Taxi ticket is $12 for regular admission, $9.00 for children (6-12 years old), $4.00 for children (under the age of 5), and $10.00 for seniors aged 65+, active-duty military (ID required), and people with disabilities.

Oklahoma City - Oklahoma City National Memorial

The Oklahoma City National Memorial houses the Field of Empty Chairs, East Gate of Time, Reflecting Pool, and The Survival Tree, which serve as memorials to victims, survivors, rescuers, and all who were affected by the Oklahoma City bombing on April 19, 1995.

The Museum charges $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (62 and above), $13 for military (with ID), and $12 for students aged 6 to 17. Children under the age of 5 are admitted free of charge.

Houston - Twilight Epiphany Skyspace

Around 4 Hours From Dallas

Rice University's Shepherd School of Music is home to one of the most iconic structures in the city: the Twilight Epiphany Skyspace. This edifice was designed by famous artist James Turrell and erected in 2012. Turrell is also popularly known for The Light Inside the tunnel, exhibited at the Houston Museum of Fine Arts.

The Twilight Epiphany Skyspace is a pyramid structure with built-in LED lighting which is projected to the roof. The facility is open to the general public, and you can catch a display of special lighting and sound at both sunrise and sunset.

Houston - Water Wall

The official name is Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, but Houstonians will know what you're talking about if you just asked around for the Water Wall. Located near the Galleria in the Uptown neighborhood, you can't miss this 64-foot tall waterfall in the middle of an urban park. The semicircular wall has cascading water on both sides. One side faces the park while the other has a plaza. It's a great place for pictures, and all the relaxing falling water drowns out the noise of the city. Best of all, it's free!

Houston - Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston is a scientific museum that serves as the NASA Johnson Space Center's official visitor center in Houston. In 2014, it was designated as a Smithsonian Affiliate institution. At Space Center Houston, there is always something new to see. Touch a Moon Rock, Discover Real Spacecraft, and Explore Historic Space Suits, among other things. Space Center Houston is a premier scientific and space exploration educational facility.

Tulsa - Gathering Place

Around 4 Hours 15 Minutes From Dallas

Gathering Place is a 66.5-acre park in Tulsa, Oklahoma, near the Arkansas River. It is a natural area with widely diversified programs created by the George Kaiser Family Foundation to provide inclusive and engaging experiences for all Tulsans to come together to explore, learn, and play. This inclusive space strives to engage, educate and excite while creating distinct memories for all who gather.

Tulsa - Gilcrease Museum

Pursuing knowledge and history through art is a great way to understand American culture at its core. That’s exactly what visitors can enjoy when they put the Gilcrease Museum at the top of their must-visit list.

This destination is brimming over with artwork and artifacts. The collection showcases the history of Central and South America with a close lens on the American West. Those who make their way here will find that the concept of American identity is a central theme, explored through artistic expression specific to various groups, including Europeans, Mexicans, African Americans, Native Americans, and beyond. Before you go, make sure to check out the museum’s 23 acres of themed gardens and stroll through sections designed to reflect everything from the Victorian era to the pre-Columbian period. Currently, the museum is having a major renovation is temporarily closed.

Tulsa - Route 66 Historical Village

Route 66 Historical Village is an open-air experience found at 3770 Southwest Boulevard. Visitors who head this way will enjoy a chance to step into the past. This historic location celebrates Tulsa's oil boom era by opening up grounds hosting authentic steam trains, oil derricks, and gas stations from a bygone era. It’s an homage to the city’s golden years that led to the prosperity Tulsa enjoys today.

Hot Springs, Arkansas - Bathhouse Row

Around 4.5 Hours From Dallas

Visitors are encouraged to do more than just drink the amazing water of Hot Springs; they’re enticed to relax in a spa bath. The thermal waters are piped directly into the bathhouses, making it one of the most leisurely, indulgent experiences available in the state. Of course, it just had to be our #1 thing to do in Hot Springs! Other former bathhouses along Bathhouse Row have been repurposed from their original use. Superior Bathhouse is now the first brewery operating within a U.S. national park! Prices vary according to location and services.

Hot Springs, Arkansas - Magic Springs Theme & Water Park

One of the top attractions in Hot Springs, Magic Springs houses both a full amusement park and a full water park. Get your thrills on one of the six roller coasters while the kids check out the less intense attractions. Watch a show or grab some great eats.

Need to cool off? Head over to the integrated water park for slides, splash islands, and Crystal Cove Wave Pool.

Open seasonally; prices vary.

Hot Springs, Arkansas - Enjoy the Lakes

Hot Springs is also blessed with abundant lakes: Lake Ouachita, Lake Catherine, DeGray Lake, and Lake Hamilton. Taking up roughly 78,000 acres of land, there are plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, or waterskiing enthusiasts. Check with any of the local marinas for ski boat or pontoon rentals. Adventurists can even rent jet skis or take a parasail ride.

For fishing enthusiasts, there are abundant species stocked annually, including bass, crappie, bream, catfish, and walleye—you’ll be sure to catch your limit!

Boating and water sports prices vary according to location. Visitor Fishing licenses cost $6.50.

San Antonio - Tower of the Americas

Around 4 Hours 45 Minutes From Dallas

To fully appreciate the scale of San Antonio, head up to the observation deck in the Tower of the Americas. We recommend booking a ticket for sunset here as it’s the best time of day to view the city from up above.

This 750-foot-tall tower is also home to a revolving restaurant called the Chart House Restaurant. Teens will want to have a go on the 4D Theater Ride, which takes them on an exciting tour of Texas.

San Antonio - River Walk

After a day of exploring some of the area’s best attractions, head to the San Antonio River Walk to finish off the day. We recommend arriving in the late afternoon, and you can follow the river itself on foot.

On the walk, you’ll find there are plenty of amazing spots to stop for something to eat or drink, like the notorious Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar, or the infamous Saltgrass Steak House. You could easily spend the whole evening exploring the area. If you need a break from walking, take one of the River Walk boats along the river to continue your exploration.

San Antonio - Alamo

No trip to San Antonio is complete without visiting The Alamo. It's one of the most important historical sites in the country and was home to the Battle of the Alamo back in 1836. Visitors can enjoy walking around the library and museum on the site, where you’ll learn more about the history of the state of Texas.

Even if you think the site looks quite small upon your approach, you’ll be impressed by how much history is hidden within its walls. It gets pretty busy here at the weekend, so try to visit during the week or first thing in the morning for the best experience.

Little Rock - Clinton Presidential Center

Around 4 Hours 45 Minutes From Dallas

Not many states can claim they have a presidential library, especially one run by the National Archives and Records Administration. Former President Clinton decided to locate his library in Little Rock. Visitors can tour the permanent collection that takes you through the history of the Clinton administration and showcases portions of its expansive archive that include over 79,000 artifacts, two million photographs, and eighty million pages of documents. There's even a scale model of the Oval Office you can step into.

Besides the permanent exhibit, the Clinton Presidential Center also hosts traveling exhibitions. These run the gamut from the fine arts to educational programming for children. Plus, the bottom floor has a great restaurant, 42 Bar and Table, which is honestly a hidden gem. Ask many people around town and they won't know that it has a wonderful patio overlooking the river. Admission to the exhibitions is $12 for adults, $7 for youth aged 6-17, and free for children 5 and under.

Little Rock - River Market

The River Market District is the entertainment hub of downtown Little Rock. A stay at a hotel here puts you in the center of the action, as well as a central location for checking off all of the activities we suggest on this list. Ottenheimer Market Hall is one of the distinctive buildings in this area for its tall "River Market" and "Little Rock" signs on the roof. Inside, the large open space houses numerous food stalls. The open-air pavilion behind the hall is the home of the Little Rock Farmers' Market.

President Clinton Avenue is the main thoroughfare through the River Market, and it is lined with restaurants, shops, and even piano bars that stay open later into the evening. Some of our favorite places include Buenos Aires Grill & Cafe, Willy D's, and Flying Saucer.

Little Rock - Central High School Historic Site

When the current building was completed in 1927, it was the largest and most expensive high school in the country. However, Little Rock Central High School took on a more infamous reputation in 1957. That year nine black students (known as the Little Rock Nine) enrolled at Central High. President Eisenhower had to order the Arkansas National Guard to escort the students, who were still subjected to verbal and physical abuse by mobs, into the school.

Today, a welcome center is operated by the National Park Service where visitors can learn more about this important Civil Rights moment and can even tour the school grounds. It may have been a dark time in Little Rock's history, but it's important to remember.

Galveston - Beaches

Around 5 Hours From Dallas

Galveston is one of the best places in America for birdwatching and outdoor living. In Galveston State Park, you can camp just 1.5 miles from the beach. For avid birdwatchers, you can expect to see spoonbills, egrets, and of course, pelicans.

FeatherFest is a birding and nature photography festival catered to the birdwatching faithful. Galveston is known for its 32 miles of coastline- and there’s always a perfect beach to fit your vibe. While Stewart and Seawall Beach offer unparalleled views of the gulf, East Beach is a different funky vibe altogether and allows alcoholic beverages. Soak up the Vitamin SEA and partake in a sandcastle competition or two.

Galveston - Pleasure Pier

If you’re longing for a Coney Island, Santa Monica, or Chicago Navy Pier experience, look no further than Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. This hot spot features waterfront fun and entertainment like no other Gulf Coast destination. The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier has family-oriented attractions including rides, midway games, a wide selection of food venues, and retail shops.

The pier had its origin as a recreational facility for the US Military during WWII as one of the largest dance floors of its kind. Hurricane Carla swept it away and a new pier was built. Today, rides reach out over the Gulf of Mexico that include coasters, water rides, a carousel, and a wonderous Galaxy Wheel. Multiple shops and dining options like Rainforest Café, Fish Tales, and Saltgrass Steakhouse line the pier for an all-inclusive experience.

Galveston - Schlitterbahn Water Park

Wild water fun is your ticket to happiness, and Schlitterbahn Water Park in Galveston is definitely your jam. From excitement-seeking teens to small kids, there is something for everyone at Schlitterbahn with the largest collection of heart-pounding, fast, tall, and thrilling attractions in the Schlitterbahn family of water parks.

If you prefer rivers, wave pools, and lounging in the sun, Galveston is a great place to visit. You can upgrade your experience to include cabanas, over 6 restaurants, and a swim-up bar for adults. Book early - Schlitterbahn has been known to fill up on the busiest of weekends.

Conway, Arkansas - Downtown

Downtown Conway is the place to be. Oak Street is the main drag, lined with quirky shops and local restaurants. E. Leigh's is a contemporary boutique with cute women's wear and accessories. Rock City Outfitters has more relaxed clothing options for both men and women. You'll find shirts, hats, and more with locally-relevant screenprints and sayings. Buff City Soaps has everything you could need for your face, body, bath, and shower.

Restaurants range from fine dining establishments to lunch sandwich shops. Mike's Place has been a local institution for years. It's the perfect place for a date night or anniversary. Pasta Grill is also a nice choice whose name describes the menu. JJ's Grill and Brick & Forge Taproom focus more on bar and pub food. If it's morning and you're hankering for breakfast, Bob's Grill has been a city morning spot since the 1980s. For something a little different, try Streetside Creperie.

Conway, Arkansas - Antique Shopping

Do you love snagging a good deal on a vintage item? Then Conway is exactly the right place for you to go antique shopping. According to our very unscientific count, it has more antique shops per capita than any other place in Arkansas. For those sticking around downtown, Jenifer's Antiques is right on Oak Street. If you're browsing around lunchtime, stop in at Cross Creek Sandwich Shop for a bite to eat.

The Painted Goat Flea Market and Painted Pug Flea Market are also in the immediate downtown area. North of downtown on Harkrider Street is Blue Ribbon Antiques. For those venturing further out, head east on Highway 64. There you'll find Small Town Shoppes Flea Market and Urban Renewal. Or you could plan your visit around one of the markets that Bella Rustina puts on two to three times a year.

Conway, Arkansas - Petit Jean Day Trip

Petit Jean State Park is only a 45-minute drive from downtown Conway. That makes it the perfect day trip for a free weekend on your calendar. The main draws here are the hiking trails and expansive views over the Arkansas River. The most notable hiking trail is Ceder Falls Trail which winds its way to the picturesque Cedar Falls waterfall. At 95 feet tall, it's one of the tallest in the state. During spring and summer, many hikers don bathing suits and stand underneath the falls to cool down from the 1-mile hike.

Petit Jean is also a popular camping area with accommodations ranging from yurts to cabins to lodges. There are also places to pitch a tent, if you want to go old school, or to park an RV, if glamping is more your style. The Mather Lodge Restaurant also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and features a large eclectic menu.

Northwest Arkansas - Coffee Culture

Around 5 Hours 20 Minutes From Dallas

Get caffeinated with world-class coffee in Northwest Arkansas. This area features some of the best roasters in the country. After all, we all need a cup of joe to help us jump-start the day. In this area, thy cafes take coffee to a whole other level. Arsaga’s, located on the Razorback Regional Greenway, is famous for its medium blend, small-batch roasted varieties.

Onyx Coffee Lab was named Imbibe magazine’s Coffee Bar of the Year! The owners consider themselves a blend of artists and scientists—always tinkering with brewing techniques so they can offer the best experience for their regulars. There are multiple locations throughout Bentonville, Rogers, and Fayetteville. Basecamp Coffee Co. features ethically sourced coffee in a relaxed environment. If you're on a bike adventure, we suggest a grab-and-go breakfast burrito. Others, sit and relax with some heavier fare.

Northwest Arkansas - Crystal Bridges Museum

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary are must-visits in Northwest Arkansas. The museum is a stunning compilation of art, architecture, exhibitions, and nature. Its unique setting overtop two ponds within 120 acres of native Ozark forests places world-class art in a natural context.

Designed by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie, the pavilions and glass bridges are remarkable to behold. Inside, the museum's curated collection features five centuries of American artwork. The permanent collection includes greats such as Georgia O'Keeffe, Thomas Eakins, and Jackson Pollock. The Momentary, opened in 2020, is a separate contemporary visual and performing art space in downtown Bentonville.

Northwest Arkansas - Call the Hogs!

If sports are your thing, you can hardly go wrong attending any sporting event at the University of Arkansas. Founded in 1871, the university is the home of the Arkansas Razorbacks, a proud member of the SEC. There are 19 teams competing at the highest level of NCAA competition. Therefore, an event is happening nearly every weekend on campus.

Whatever the athletic event, grab your cardinal and white ensemble, and don't forget your plastic hog hat. Cheering for the home team is unavoidable as the famed "Woo Pig Sooie!" chant is quite infectious. You may even hear it spontaneously on the street or in a bar. It's the unofficial anthem of Northwest Arkansas.

Amarillo - Globe-News Center for Performing Arts

Around 5 Hours 40 Minutes From Dallas

Amarillo is a destination known for providing a variety of options for fun to visitors. That said, if you’re an enthusiast of the arts, booking tickets for the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts is a must.

Found at 500 S. Buchanan Street, this performing arts center sits in the heart of downtown Amarillo. It’s home to the Lone Star Ballet and the Amarillo Symphony, just to name a few. A variety of events are hosted here throughout the year spanning ballet, opera, theater, and concerts. Altogether, this performing arts center enjoys three seating levels and undeniably intriguing architectural features. It can easily seat up to 1,300 audience members in the main auditorium.

Amarillo - Cadillac Ranch

If you happen to be an adventurer that brings artistic inspiration with you wherever you go, stopping by Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo will likely be the highlight of your trip. Found at 1-40 Frontage Road, Cadillac Ranch is decidedly more of a public art installation than a ranch at all.

Created by Hudson Marquez, Doug Michels, and Chip Lord, this art installation involves a collection of Cadillacs that have been placed nose-first into the ground. While all of the vehicles have been painted, the idea is to keep the installation evolving with every visit. Guests to Cadillac Ranch are encouraged to bring their own spray paint and put a personal touch on the exhibit before they go.

Amarillo - Route 66 Historic District

Perhaps one of the most iconic stops in all of Amarillo is the Route 66 Historic District. Made up of 13 blocks just west of Amarillo’s city center, this district showcases a collection of beautiful buildings that sit along with one of the most infamous highways in America.

A stroll through the Route 66 Historic District is a chance to admire architecture covering everything from art décor and Spanish Revival to styles that defined the early 20th century. From the Natatorium and Taylor’s Texaco Station to the Adkinson-Baker Tire Company, this district holds onto the past in a way that rivals the future.

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KXAN Austin

One down, many more to go

by: Nick Bannin , Kristen Currie , Rich Segal , Jim Spencer

Posted: Jun 28, 2024 / 06:07 AM CDT

Updated: Jun 28, 2024 / 06:35 AM CDT

AUSTIN (KXAN) — The first 100° high was recorded at Camp Mabry Thursday afternoon. It comes one week earlier than the average first date (July 4th) when Austin hits that first 100° high.

Afternoon highs this afternoon will return to the upper 90s to several with triple-digit heat.

Another Heat Advisory will be in effect this afternoon from 1:00 to 7:00.

A ridge of high pressure in the upper atmosphere will continue to be the area’s main weather feature for at least the next seven days.

Temperatures will remain constant at between 99° and 102° from Saturday through Independence Day.

The first plume of dust from the Sahara arrives today. The dust will get thicker this weekend into next week. This will make the sky hazy but it also leads to some pretty sunrises and sunsets.

Watching the Tropics

There are three tropical waves in the Atlantic basin.

One is in the central Caribbean with a low chance of development in the next few days.

The second one is in the eastern Atlantic a several hundred miles southwest of the Cape Verde Islands. It has a higher chance to become a tropical depression or tropical storm by the weekend/early next week. The most recent update from the National Hurricane Center saw a notable increase in the odds of development.

There is a third tropical wave a few hundred miles south-southwest of the Cape Verde Islands with a 20% chance of tropical development in the next seven days.

Various computer models show the potential path of the center of this storm with the lines below. While there’s a lot of agreement over the next few days, some divergence in track takes place as we get 7-days away. It’s still too early to determine potential strength, but once the storm becomes a tropical depression then the National Hurricane Center will issue their first forecast track for the storm.

Stay with the First Warning Weather Team as we take you through the heat and any activity in the tropics.

FIRST WARNING WEATHER: Stay up to date with your Central Texas forecast, sign up for our weather newsletter at kxan.com/newsletters

Stay up-to-date with the First Warning Weather team

Follow the KXAN First Warning Weather team on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .

You can also follow our meteorologists’ individual accounts for livestreams and a little bit of what goes on behind the scenes:

• @JimSpencerKXAN
• @KristenCurrieTV
• @NickBanninWX

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Check out the latest emmy award-winning weather lesson, when should you golf in central tx.

Golf is a big deal in Central Texas, but so is the weather. Depending on the time of day you hit the green, you could be dealing with hotter temps or wet grass. These factors could give you an extra boost or hinder your game. In this First Warning Weather University lesson, meteorologist Kristen Currie takes a closer look at how current conditions can alter your swing.

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