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15 Fun Texas Road Trips For Your Bucket List

April 27, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Searching for the best Texas road trip? We’ve got you covered! As the largest state in the continental US, there is so much to do in Texas. This can be quite overwhelming for many tourists and locals alike! There is no need to worry, though, as we have compiled a list of some of the best road trips in Texas.

Texas is best known for its barbecue and its proud history. However, there is so much more that this great state has to offer. Whether your passion lies in majestic waterfalls, scenic drives, or anything in between, Texas is the state for you!

With so much to see and do in this state, it is very easy to get lost. That is why we have categorized each road trip by theme, so you are able to see exactly the sights you want to see. So grab your travel partners, hop in the car, and go find your perfect Texas road trip.

Small Towns in Texas Road Trip

• Marble Falls
• Nacogdoches

Texas is well known for sprawling cities like Dallas and Houston, but this state is full of hidden gems. Texas is littered with cute small towns , and this Texas road trip will take you right through the best of them!

The small towns in Texas each have their own unique personality. Wimberley is the perfect chic spots for nature lovers, while Nacogdoches has the quintessential Texas small town feel. Each small town feels like its own little world, and this is the perfect road trip for those who want to stray from the beaten path.

Starting out of Austin, this road trip has relatively short round trip time of 11 hours. This gives you ample time to explore these small towns to their fullest. The Small Towns in Texas Road Trip is one of the best road trips from Austin if you want to explore the more local side of Texas.

This is truly one of the Best Things To Do In Texas to put on your Texas bucket list!

Haunted Texas Road Trip

• Yorktown Memorial Hospital

With all of the history in Texas, there’s bound to be a few haunted hide outs. There have many instances of the strange and unnatural in the Lone Star state. If you’re brave enough for a little night driving on this Texas road trip, you might see something you can’t explain.

Come to Lobo to experience a true Texas ghost town. This once thriving farm city was left abandoned after the area dried up. Terlingua is also a famous ghost town in Texas. Complete with a ghost town cemetery, this is one city you might want to bring a friend, or a safety blanket, to.

However, Texas is not just ghost towns. The Yorktown Memorial Hospital is your textbook haunted, abandoned hospital. If ghosts are not your thing, Marfa may be a cute small town, but it is home to some close encounters of the third kind. The Marfa Lights were a serious of mysterious glowing orbs seen in the west Texas sky.

Texas Waterfalls Road Trip

• Spring Falls
• Gorman Falls
• Pedernales Falls
• Dripping Springs Falls

While waterfalls are not the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Texas, the state boasts some of the prettiest waterfalls in the country. The many rivers flowing through Texas combing with a deceptively hilly terrain to create some majestic waterfalls. Start in Dallas, and work your way down to Austin with this amazing Texas road trip.

Much of the water in Texas is spring-fed, making it exceptionally blue and cool year-round. This water looks especially nice cascading down a smooth or directly off a cliff. One this road trip, you will be able to visit all kinds of waterfalls. From the sheer drops of spring falls to the gentle decline of Pedernales, Texas has it all.

The waterfalls might be the stars of the show, but there is much more to this road trip. Many of these waterfalls reside in beautiful state parks. Take some time to tour these parks and enjoy one of the most beautiful road trips from Dallas.

Coastal Texas Road Trip

• Corpus Christi
• South Padre Island

Let the top down and take a drive down the iconic Texas coast. There are many fantastic cities and towns along the Texas coast that are perfect for a leisurely trip. The beaches along this trip are perfect for soaking up some sun, or taking a relaxing dip in the water.

Thanks to the warm Gulf of Mexico currents, the Texas coast has some of the warmest water in the US. This is perfect for those who can’t quite get time off in the heat of the summer. Ditch the huge crowds in Miami and cruise along one of the most relaxing road trips in Texas.

The cities and towns along this trip are also very unique. From the giant glass pyramids of Galveston to the amusement park of South Padre Island, there is so much to do in these cities. Be sure to take some time and explore the vibrant cities along the beautiful Texas coast.

Texas National Park Road Trip

• Guadalupe Mountains National Park
• Fort Davis National Historic Site
• Big Bend National Park
• San Antonio Missions National Historic Park

One of the most naturally beautiful states in the US Texas boasts fourteen individual lands managed by the US National Parks Service, including two national parks . Both of these parks are on the west side of Texas, making this west Texas road trip a must for all nature lovers.

Texas may be better known for its prairies and deserts, but the state features one of the most stunning mountain ranges in the US. The stunning Guadalupe Mountain Range is the perfect combination of desert and mountain. Watching the sun set over this mountain range is most certainly a bucket list item.

These national sites and parks are also perfect for exploring. There are many hiking, biking, and walking trails in each one of these stops. Be sure to take your time and soak in the natural beauty of Texas.

Epic Nature Road Trip

• Bayou Big Bend Collection and Gardens
• Caverns of Sonora
• Santa Elena Canyon

This is one of the most involved Texas road trips on this list. The lengthy road trip time is more than justified, though, as this trip takes you along a greatest hits tour of nature in Texas.

Start in Houston and visit the Bayou Big Bend Collection and Gardens. Here you will be able to see much of the wildlife and flora specific to this great state. After this warm up, you will be ready to see all of the natural wonders of Texas.

This trip has too many highlights to list. However, El Capitan stands out as one of the most awe inspiring spots in Texas. The peak of this formation seems to rise up out of nowhere to pierce the Texas sky. If you are in the area want to see the natural beauty of Texas, be sure to embark on one of the most stunning road trips from Houston.

Abandoned Places Road Trip

• Patient Buildings at Terrell State Hospital
• Baker Hotel
• Walnut Ridge Mansion
• The Rig Theatre

Step in to Texas history without the need for a museum. These abandoned buildings will transport you back into the old days of Texas. This eerie road trip is equal parts fascinating and spine chilling.

Who doesn’t love an abandoned hospital? Terrell State Hospital closed in 1985, but it still serves the public as nightmare fuel. However, you can go during the day to get a much more calming glimpse of what hospitals were like in the past.

The other spots along this Texas road trip highlight the everyday aspects of early life in the state. From old hotels to movie theatres of yesteryear, this road trip will let you peek through the curtain of history. Museums often gloss over mundane aspects of history like this, so visiting these sites will be very refreshing for history lovers.

Texas Hill Country Road Trip

• Ennis Bluebonnet Trail
• Willow City Loop

Bluebonnets are the official state flowers of Texas, and it is clear to see why. There is nothing more Texan than a field covered in the beautiful Texas Bluebonnet flower. These flowers grow abundantly in the hill country region of the state, making this Texas hill country road trip is full of the best places to see bluebonnets .

Texas is very proud of their bluebonnets, and will take any opportunity to show them off! There is actually a rumor that it is illegal to pick these flowers, since they are sacred to Texans. This is not true, however, it is illegal to trespass on private property to hunt for these flowers.

One of the highlights of this road trip is the Willow City Loop. Within the already beautiful Willow City there is a famous 13 mile trail perfect for viewing bluebonnets. This is one of the most scenic drives in Texas, and provides some of the best bluebonnet viewing in the state.

Texas Castles Road Trip

• Bishop’s Palace
• Newman’s Castle
• Falkenstein Castle
• Castle Avalon

Castles in Texas? Finding a fairytale castle in Texas seems as likely as finding a fish in the Sahara desert. However, this state features an abundance of beautiful castles, as long as you know exactly where to look.

Start at the scenic Bishop’s Palace. This castle is located right on the water, giving it a pristine view of the Gulf of Mexico. Dating back to 1892, this wonderful historic castle offers tours through its dazzling three story layout.

The other castles along this list mix everything you love about your favorite fairytale castle. Newman’s Castle features a moat and drawbridge. Falkenstein Castle features historically accurate German flair and is one of the best castles in Texas. Castle Avalon greets you with a fantastical two story gatehouse. Texas may not conjure images of fantasy castles, but these ones are definitely worth a visit.

Texas Spirits Road Trip

• Hill Country Distillers
• Shiner Brewery
• Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery
• Firestone & Robertson Distilling Co.

Texas produces some of the finest drinks in the entire US, and this road trip will take you along some of the finest breweries and distilleries the state has to offer. If you want to drink in all the state has to offer, this boozy Texas road trip is perfect for you.

Some of the finest distilleries in the US can be found in Texas. With a wide range of drinks that can cater to any palette, Texas is perfect for a boozy road trip. Deep Eddy specializes in fantastic flavored vodka, Firestone and Robertson supplies authentic Texas whiskey and bourbon, and Hill Country Distillers offers fantastic moonshine.

This trip also takes you into the town of Shiner, Texas. The birthplace of Shiner beers, this brewery offers extremely interactive tours. Complete with multimedia experiences and a “big new honky-tonk bar,” this brewery is not one you want to miss.

Texas International Road Trip

• Fredericksburg
• Castroville

People of every race and nationality have come to Texas looking to start a new life. This has been great for Texas, as each new addition to the state has added to the broad identity of Texas. There are many cities and towns within Texas that make it feel like you are entering a whole new country.

The story of Texas is composed of many different cultures. West is Czech, Dublin is Irish, Fredericksburg is German, and Castroville is French. Each city offers a new experience, and this Texas road trip is perfect for those who do not have the time to traverse Europe.

Each of these stops offers unique highlights that you must check out. There is a roadside stop called Slovacek’s in West that serves as an amazing Czeck bakery. Walking through downtown Castroville transports you to a quaint town in the wine country of France. While in these cities, be sure to talk to locals to find the best places to stop to get the full cultural experience.

Everything’s Bigger in Texas Road Trip

• World’s Largest Cowboy Boots
• World’s Largest Pecan
• Buc-ee’s New Braunfel
• Moontower Pizza Bar

Everything is bigger in Texas! This state is well known for it’s never ending pursuit to be the largest. From arbitrary records to functional size, Texas features all kinds of colossal attractions worth visiting.

Texas features many “World’s Largest” attractions, and they are very serious about them. The World’s Largest Pecan was briefly leapfrogged by a rival pecan statue, and the state of Texas quickly came together to snuff out this competition. The World’s Largest Cowboy Boots are a bit more safe, though, as no one has even attempted to compete with this 35-foot-tall pair of footwear.

There are also many other, more functional giant attractions in Texas. Buc-ee’s is an iconic gas state and convenience store in Texas, and its giant New Braunfel location is also the world’s largest convenience store. Moontower Pizza serves the world’s largest commercially available pizza, perfect for a road trip of you and your 40 closest friends.

Texas Museum Road Trip

• Space Center Houston
• Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
• Bullock Texas State History Museum

Texas is a treasure trove of science and history, and these wonderful museums let you explore it all. This state is more than happy to show off their accomplishments in science, art, and history. This is one of the best Texas road trip ideas for anyone who has a passion for learning.

Texas boasts a very unique history. The state has been occupied by the French, Spanish, and Mexican, and even spent a brief period as its own country. This history is on full display at both the Bullock State History Museum as well as the Alamo.

The Space Center Houston shows off Texas’ deep ties with NASA, as well as highlighting the technological advancements in space travel. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is the perfect place to view works from throughout the world, from antiquity to the present. This museum road trip is perfect to experience the nerdier side of Texas.

Texas Springs Road Trip

• Hamilton Pool Preserve
• Barton Springs Pool
• Jacob’s Well Natural Area
• Hancock Springs

Some of the finest natural springs in the US can be found in Texas. Natural springs are known for their consistent temperature year-round, which is perfect for cooling off on a summer day or warming up on a winter’s day.

Many of these springs are very popular swimming holes for the locals. Barton Springs is a prime spot for the residents of Austin to cool off. Many of them are very friendly and will gladly fill you in on some of the hidden gems of the city.

Many of the other springs are less tourist destination and more natural wonder. Jacob’s Well is the second-largest completely submerged cave in Texas and is one of the most epic places in the south . Along with swimming, Jacob’s Well is a great place for hiking and bird watching. It is also possible to go on an hour-long tour with a naturalist guide.

Texas BBQ Road Trip

• Tejas Chocolate + BBQ
• Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue
• Harris Bar-b-que
• Hutchins BBQ

When you think of barbecue, you are most likely thinking of Texas barbecue. This state is well known for smoky brisket and delicious pulled pork. It is no wonder why barbecue heavyweights like Houston and Austin are some of the best food cities in the south .

This trip starts at Tejas Chocolate + BBQ. This specialty shop pairs smoky brisket with rich chocolate truffles to create a unique experience that you won’t soon forget. Be sure to save some room, though, as this Texas road trip is sure to leave you with a full stomach.

All of these barbecue restaurants boast awards too numerous to mention, and each one comes with its own unique specialty. Stanley’s does an excellent pork rib dish, Harris Bar-b-que serves iconic Texas brisket, and Hutchins invented the uniquely Texan dish called a “Texas Twinkie,” which is a brisket-stuffed jalapeño wrapped in bacon.

It is easy to feel overwhelmed with all there is to do in Texas. This state has everything from natural wonders, to delicious food, to man made marvels. There road trips in Texas will be your guide through this amazing state and help you experience the wonder of Texas.

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

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

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

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

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

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Why Roadtrip in Texas?

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

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

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

The Ultimate Texas Road Trip – 6 days

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

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

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

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

Road Trip Highlights:

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

Day 1: Austin to San Antonio (1.25 hours)

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

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

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

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

Day 2: San Antonio and the Hill Country 

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

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

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

Day 3: San Antonio to Houston (3.5 hours)

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Houston to Dallas (3.5 hours)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: San Antonio to Fredricksburg (2 hours)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Renting a Vehicle in Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road Rules in Texas

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

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

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

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

Insurance in Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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15 Most Exciting Road Trips From Texas

Road trip cities from texas.

Take a state as big as Texas — 268,597 square miles — and couple it with a pandemic, and you have another meaning to "Lone Star State."

If you are antsy and in need of travel, we've found cities you can visit that are just a road trip away. Some may only take a few hours, but all can be done in a day to get you to a new place to see, explore and shake up repetitive days.

Ready to go? We have the mileage, hotels and attractions already planned out for you on these 15 most exciting road trips from major cities in Texas.

New Orleans

Let the good times roll in New Orleans, home to the nation's biggest Mardi Gras celebration and Jazz Fest.

Where to Go: Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World museum, the French Quarter and the Garden District

Where to Stay: Maison de la Luz , the top-ranked hotel in the city

Where to Eat: Cafe du Monde for its famous beignets

Getting There

From Houston: 348 miles, 5 hours and 15 minutes

From Dallas: 506 miles, 7.5 hours

From San Antonio: 543 miles, 8 hours

From Austin: 564 miles, 9 hours and 15 minutes

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Go farther afield to the crossroads between the American Plains and the West, where ample skiing and crisp air await.

Where to Go: The Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak and one of many zipline tours

Where to Stay: The Broadmoor , a destination resort dating back more than 100 years

Where to Eat: Salsa on the Rock, the top-rated restaurant in the city

From Houston: 958 miles, 14.5 hours

From Dallas: 724 miles, 10.5 hours

From San Antonio: 862 miles,13 hours

From Austin: 849 miles, 13 hours

Oklahoma City

You won't be able to squeeze in all of the sights in OK City in one weekend — there are more than 50 attractions here.

Where to Go: Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Bricktown, and the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Where to Stay: Inside a 1920s renovated building at the Ambassador Hotel Oklahoma City, Autograph Collection  

Where to Eat: Metro Wine Bar & Bistro, the city's favorite

From Houston: 445 miles, 6.5 hours

From Dallas: 206 miles, 3 hours

From San Antonio:  466 miles, 7 hours

From Austin: 388 miles, 5 hours and 45 minutes

Shreveport, Louisiana

Check out the border city offering riverboats, gaming and waterfront entertainment.

Where to Go: R.W. Norton Art Galley, Shreveport Water Works Museum and Shreveport Aquarium

Where to Stay: Try the Remington Suite Hotel and Spa , and get pampered during your visit.

Where to Eat: Leave behind Tex-Mex for Athena Greek & Lebanese Grill.

From Houston:  238 miles, 4 hours

From Dallas: 188 miles, 2 hours and 45 minutes

From San Antonio:  414 miles, 6.5 hours

From Austin: 336 miles, 5.5 hours

Kansas City, Missouri

Visit the City of Fountains, and enjoy its wide array of music clubs — this is where swing and bebop began.

Where to Go: The National WWI Museum and Memorial, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Union Station and Arabia Steamboat Museum

Where to Stay:  Crossroads Hotel , a charming boutique property beloved by travelers

Where to Eat: Devour the barbeque ribs at Jack Stack Barbeque Freight House.

From Houston:  745 miles, 11.5 hours

From Dallas: 508 miles, 8 hours

From San Antonio:  780 miles, 12 hours

From Austin: 702 miles, 11 hours

Santa Fe, New Mexico

See the oldest continuously inhabited city in the U.S. — a place that inspired artist Georgia O'Keeffe.

Where to Go: Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, Museum of International Folk Art and Canyon Road

Where to Stay: Sample the exceptional at the luxurious Inn of the Five Graces .

Where to Eat: Sazon, the city's best restaurant with a Latin flair

From Houston: 874 miles, 13 hours

From Dallas: 640 miles, 9.5 hours

From San Antonio: 706 miles, 10 hours and 45 minutes

From Austin: 686 miles, 10 hours and 45 minutes

Mesa Verde, Colorado

Visit the oldest archaeologically preserved city in the country at this national park and heritage site.

Where to Go: The site's Cliff Palace, Balcony House, Spruce Tree House and numerous hiking trails

Where to Stay: The Far View Lodge is the only lodging within the park's entrance.

Where to Eat: The Metate Room at the Far View Lodge, featuring park views and fine dining

From Houston: 1,102 miles, 17.5 hours

From Dallas: 912 miles, 14 hours

From San Antonio:  978 miles, 15.5 hours

From Austin: 959 miles, 15.5 hours

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Step back in time in the town that became a retreat a century ago, due to its naturally heated thermal waters.

Where to Go: Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs National Park, Fordyce Bathhouse and Lake Catherine State Park

Where to Stay: Lookout Point Lakeside Inn will give you the best views of the lake and provide plenty of peace.

Where to Eat: Grab breakfast at the Pancake Shop dinner.

From Houston:  402 miles, 6 hours and 45 minutes

From Dallas: 287 miles, 4.5 hours

From San Antonio: 548 miles, 8 hours and 45 minutes

From Austin: 470 miles, 7.5 hours

Lake Charles, Louisiana

Don't miss the Festival Capital of Louisiana, Lake Charles, which gives NOLA a run for its money.

Where to Go: Millennium Park, USS Orleck Naval Museum and Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu

Where to Stay: You don't need to spend a fortune to get away to the Hampton Inn Lake Charles .

Where to Eat: Save room for the steaks at Ember Grille & Wine Bar.

From Houston: 143 miles, 2 hours and 15 minutes 

From Dallas: 342 miles, 5.5 hours

From San Antonio:  339 miles, 5 hours

From Austin: 404 miles, 4 hours and 45 minutes

Memphis, Tennessee

Visit the home of blues and rock 'n' roll — the likes of Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded here and Elvis and B.B. King called it home.

Where to Go: Sun Studio, Graceland, Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the National Civil Rights Museum – Lorraine Motel

Where to Stay: Stay at the iconic Peabody Hotel and watch the ducks parade in the lobby.

Where to Eat: Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken for real soul food

From Houston: 567 miles, 8 hours and 45 minutes

From Dallas: 452 miles, 6.5 hours

From San Antonio:  725 miles, 10.5 hours

From Austin: 647 miles, 9.5 hours

Dodge City, Kansas

Go back to the Wild West, where Wyatt Earp regained control of the Old West town and Westerns have been filmed.

Where to Go: Dodge City Trail of Fame, Boot Hill Museum and Dodge City Zoo

Where to Stay: Take a pick from chain hotels like the Best Western Plus Country Inn & Suites .

Where to Eat: Central Station Bar & Grill for a taste of home

From Houston: 696 miles, 10 hours and 45 minutes

From Dallas: 466 miles, 7.5 hours

From San Antonio:  658 miles, 10 hours and 15 minutes

From Austin: 628 hours, 9 hours and 45 minutes

Branson, Missouri

Head to the Ozarks, and enjoy the vacation town of Branson, a four-season resort area.

Where to Go: Sparky Free Downtown Branson Trolley, Historic Owen Theatre and Burbank Jones specialty shop

Where to Stay: There are 15 suites in the award-winning and rustic Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks Lodging .

Where to Eat: The Keeter Center is also the go-to for great food.

From Houston: 597 miles, 10 hours

From Dallas: 432 miles, 7 hours

From San Antonio:  699 miles, 11 hours

From Austin: 621 miles,  9 hours and 45 minutes

Gulfport, Mississippi

Hit the white-sand beaches of Gulfport and the Gulf Islands National Seashore on the barrier islands, and try your luck at the casinos of Mississippi.

Where to Go: Ship Island, the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies and the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum

Where to Stay:  The area is home to many cozy B&Bs, including the Guest House at Gulfport Landing .

Where to Eat: Seafood is the way to go here, and you'll find it at Half Shell Oyster House.

From Houston: 528 miles, 8 hours and 45 minutes

From Dallas: 560 miles, 8 hours and 15 minutes

From San Antonio:  598 miles, 9 hours

From Austin: 566 miles, 8.5 hours

Taos, New Mexico

Heed the calling of the slopes in one of the best ski resorts in the country surrounded by an artistic community.

Where to Go: Taos Ski Valley and the Spa and Wellness Center at the Blake

Where to Stay: The alpine resort, The Blake , puts you in the heart of it all, with its location adjacent to a ski lift.

Where to Eat: Continue the alpine adventure at the Bavarian Restaurant, serving authentic German fare.

From Houston: 893 miles, 14 hours

From Dallas: 658 miles, 10.5 hours

From San Antonio: 737 miles, 11 hours and 45 minutes

From Austin: 723 miles, 11 hours and 45 minutes

Meet where the East meets West in the Gateway City of St. Louis, well worth the drive.

Where to Go: Gateway Arch, Soldiers Memorial Military Museum, City Garden, and the Thaxton & Speakeasy

Where to Stay: Embrace the arts with a stay at the Angad Arts Hotel in the Grand Center Arts District.

Where to Eat: Pappy's Smokehouse for St. Louis-style barbeque

From Houston: 779 miles, 12 hours and 15 minutes

From Dallas: 636 miles, 10 hours

From San Antonio:  903 miles, 14 hours

From Austin: 825 miles, 13 hours

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

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Where To Stay In Dallas + Fort Worth

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

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

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

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

Day 1 & 2 – Dallas + Fort Worth

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

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

Dallas Arts District

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

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

Sixth Floor Museum

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

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

Klyde Warren Park

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

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

Perot Museum of Nature & Science

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

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

African American Museum

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

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

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

AT&T Stadium

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

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

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

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

Sundance Square

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

Kimbell Art Museum

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

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

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

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

Billy Bob’s Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This drive takes 5.5 hours from downtown Dallas.

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

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

Cadillac Ranch

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

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

Sixth Street Historic District

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

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

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

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

Day 3 & 4 – Austin

This drive takes 3 hours from downtown Dallas

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

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

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

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

Downtown Austin

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

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

Texas State Capitol

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

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

University of Texas

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

Sunset at Congress Avenue Bridge

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

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

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

The Dirty Sixth

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

Rainey Street Historic District

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

Lady Bird Lake

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

South Congress

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

The Cathedral of Junk

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

Travelers must call ahead before visiting.

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

McKinney Falls State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Magnolia Market at the Silos

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

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

Dr. Pepper Museum

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

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

Wooly Mammoth National Monument

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

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

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

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

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

Pedernales Falls State Park

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

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

Frederiksburg

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

Visit the Wineries

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

Day 5 – San Antonio

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

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

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

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

San Antonio Missions

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

The San Antonio Riverwalk

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

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

Historic Market Square

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

Natural Bridge Caverns

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

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

Ranger Creek Brewing

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 & 7 – Corpus Christi

This drive takes 2 hours from downtown San Antonio.

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

Mustang Island

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

Padre Island National Seashore

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

South Padre Island

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

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

The Rio Grande

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

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

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

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

Day 8 – Houston

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

Space Center Houston

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

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

The Museum District

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

Buffalo Bayou Park

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

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

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

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

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

Day 9 – Galveston

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

Stewart Beach

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

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

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The 8 Most Scenic Road Trips in Texas

Even if you only have a day or two to explore, these road trips deliver natural swimming holes, stunning views, and good eats aplenty..

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With the largest highway system in the United States, Texas is ideal for road-tripping.

Photo by IrinaK/Shutterstock

In the largest state in the contiguous United States, it can take hours just to drive out of Texas, especially if you live toward the center—say, near San Antonio or Austin. So, when most Texans plan road trips, it’s usually an in-state jaunt. The good news is thanks to its size, there are many scenic things to see and do within the borders of the Lone Star State.

Texas sits in an interesting geographical position and boasts 10 different, distinct biomes—it’s not all rolling tumbleweeds and high desert—so there is plenty of scenery to enjoy. Some areas of interest to consider for your trip: the piney woods and Louisiana-like swamps of East Texas; the charming knolls of the Hill Country (and all the clear, cool rivers that run through it); the enchanting, mountainous West Texas desert; the rolling plains of the Panhandle.

If you’re a history buff, there are many historical museums, towns, and monuments to add to your itinerary. Texas was its own country for nine years, something no other state can claim, and has all of the drama, military conflict, and political spats that go along with nation building. With more than 16,000 historical markers throughout all 254 counties of the state, be ready to tap on the brakes and pull over for a quick stop. As John Steinbeck noted in Travels With Charley , the smaller a town is, the more historical markers it is likely to have.

Perhaps what makes a Texas road trip truly unique and worthwhile are the distinctive communities you’ll encounter. Most of central Texas was settled by German immigrants and many small towns in the area—like Gruene, Fredericksburg, and New Braunfels—have German-style restaurants, shops, and even festivals like Wurstfest . South Texas is home to the second-largest population of Latino people in the country after California, with a vibrant Tejano culture that’s been around for centuries. (I sure hope you like Tex Mex.) For a more traditional Southern jaunt, head to Houston where the drawls grow longer, the sweet tea flows free, and the barbecue ribs are as sweet as honey.

All of that, and I haven’t even talked yet about Buc-ee’s , aka the best (and cleanest) gas station chain ever and current record holder for the largest gas station in the world . Consider stocking up on beef jerky and beaver nuggets while you’re there and picking up a chopped brisket sandwich. And keep your eyes peeled for those good ol’ mom-and-pop diners as well—they might be selling homemade pies that will put your mama’s recipe to shame. Oh, and don’t forget to make a pit stop for barbecue if you happen to be near one of the best ’cue joints in Texas.

Ready to ride? Here are the eight of the best Texas road trips:

Highway 170 partially runs along Texas’s border with Mexico, making for striking canyon views.

Photo by jamsedel/Shutterstock

1. Lajitas to Presidio

• Start: Lajitas
• End: Presidio
• Distance: 50 miles
• Recommended time: One day

In the far reaches of West Texas, in the desolate-yet-beautiful borderlands between Mexico and the U.S., is Highway 170, arguably one of the most gorgeous drives in the whole country. Don’t just take my word for it—in 2008, National Geographic Traveler named it one of the nation’s most scenic highways, along with classics like California’s Highway 1 .

You could begin this journey in either direction, but the canyons are most spectacular if the drive starts in the small town of Lajitas (not much there besides a high-end golf resort and air strip) and ends in the slightly bigger small town of Presidio. There are no tourist traps or cultural stops along the way; this is a drive purely for enjoying the ruggedness and solitude of the West Texas desert landscape. Be sure to bring snacks or enough food for a roadside picnic—there are plenty of places to pull off from the road and enjoy a scenic meal.

For fans of Lonesome Dove , consider a detour to see the casita that served as Maria’s Ojinaga home in the miniseries Streets of Laredo , in the ghost town of Contrabando within Big Bend Ranch State Park . And if you happen to be driving from Presidio to Lajitas, make the extra 13 miles to Terlingua, where you can refill on fuel and refill your belly at the legendary Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon —the margaritas are chilly and strong.

The Davis Mountains Scenic Loop begins and ends in Fort Davis.

Photo by Mae Hamilton

2. Davis Mountains Scenic Loop

• Starts and ends in: Fort Davis
• Distance: 75 miles

The Davis Mountains of West Texas are classified as a “ sky island ,” and their green slopes certainly strike a sharp contrast to the brown scrub brush of the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert. Encompassing a scenic 75-mile stretch of Texas State Highway 118 and Texas 166, the Davis Mountains Scenic Loop is the most elevated highway in the state as well as one of the least crowded and most scenic. When I made this trip in November 2021, I didn’t see a single car besides our own for the entire duration.

Along the way, travelers can admire historic ranches, rolling golden grasslands, and mountaintops teeming with flora and fauna found nowhere else in the state. There are several picturesque places to stop for a picnic, including the fancifully named Dead Man’s Canyon , which, as legend has it, got its moniker when the body of young Horace Powe was found propped up next to a boulder in the 1880s—he had been shot 11 times.

The route also passes through 33,000 acres of wild mountain land that’s stewarded by the Nature Conservancy’s Davis Mountains Preserve as well as the University of Texas’s famous McDonald Observatory . The McDonald is a working observatory; academics travel from all over the world for the dark sky reserve that encompasses much of the Big Bend region of West Texas. However, there’s also a museum on campus where visitors can learn all about the research facility’s history and current functions.

Because the loop begins and ends in Fort Davis, spend some time in the small mountain town that still does not have a single traffic light. Blue Mountain Bar and Grill , which uses local ingredients in its kitchen, is a favorite.

If you have a few days to burn in the area, consider embarking on a more thorough West Texas road trip .

The Bluebonnet House in Marble Falls, built in the 1800s, is one of the most photographed homes in the state.

Photo by JaDipity/Shutterstock

3. Mineral Wells to Marble Falls

• Starts: Mineral Wells
• Ends: Marble Falls
• Distance: 163 miles
• Recommended time: One or two days

This is a Texas road trip best suited for summer thanks to its watery itinerary—there are several places to swim along this route.

The journey begins in the small North Texas town of Mineral Wells, once a bustling, premier spa destination known for its hot springs that lured the likes of Judy Garland, Clark Gable, Will Rogers, and even Bonnie and Clyde to its alkaline, mineral-rich waters. Sadly, the Baker Hotel , the place that put the town on the map, shut down in 1972. However, a group of investors bought the hotel in 2019 and are restoring the Grand Old Lady (placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982) to its former glory. (Keep up with their progress on their popular TikTok account.) But you don’t need to stay at the Baker to enjoy the water: Mosey on over to Lake Mineral Wells State Park , if the urge to splash around strikes you. Mineral Wells also has a cute downtown with plenty of shops and restaurants; try the shrimp and grits and ribs at Hole in the Wall Grill & Bier Garten .

Highway 281, which will take you from Mineral Wells to Marble Falls, is full of Hill Country charms and views. Stop in Hico for its Billy the Kid Museum (and an Old West conspiracy theory that says Billy wasn’t killed by Pat Garett in Fort Sumner—instead, he ran away to Hico in some sort of Elvis-Presley-is-still-alive kind of plot twist). Lampasas is home to the oldest spring-fed swimming pool in the state if you’re ready for another dip.

Finally, the journey ends in the small town of Marble Falls, set along the Colorado River, where retirees flock; you can get in one last swim here. Marble Falls is also home to the Blue Bonnet Cafe , a cozy diner famous for its homemade-style pies.

If you’re looking to spend a few days exploring the area, consider embarking on the ultimate Texas Hill Country road trip .

Port Aransas has over 18 miles of fluffy, white-sand beaches.

Photo by Stephanie A Sellers/Shutterstock

4. Galveston to Port Aransas

• Starts: Galveston
• Ends: Port Aransas
• Distance: 209 miles
• Recommended time: Two or three days

The saying goes that the West Coast is the best coast, but how about the third coast? Texas has 367 miles of shoreline, making it the sixth-longest coastline in the country. Unlike the East and West coasts where some of the most expensive property in the world comes with an ocean view, the beach communities of Texas are, for the most part, composed of working-class folks.

This road trip begins in the island city of Galveston, 50 miles from Houston. Thanks to its proximity to H-Town, Galveston is one of the most popular beach towns in the state and features attractions like the Moody Gardens and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier . I think the best beaches in the state are a little farther south—thankfully, the road south along State Highway 35 is a beautiful one. Winding through marshlands, the route provides peekaboo views of the Gulf Coast and meanders through cute towns like West Columbia (capital of the Republic of Texas for eight months in 1836) and the fish-crazy city of Rockport.

Finally, the journey will end in Port Aransas, one of the prettiest beach towns in Texas. There you’ll find 18 miles of white-sand beaches and fresh Gulf Coast seafood. In the colder months, be sure to make a detour to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge , where the last wild flock of endangered whooping cranes likes to winter. Between April and August, baby sea turtles hatch and make their big journey to the ocean.

After you’re done with the Twisted Sisters, hop over to the nearby Frio River for a dip.

Photo by Taylor Leto/Shutterstock

5. Twisted Sisters Motorcycle Route

• Starts and ends in: Leakey
• Distance: 100 miles

Comprised of three Farm to Market roads—FM 335, FM 336, and FM 337—the Twisted Sisters Motorcycle Route is known the most challenging motorcycle loop in the state. And, it also happens to be one of the nicest drives in Texas. Located northwest of San Antonio, the Twisted Sisters cuts through the heart of the Hill Country. Expect gentle, rolling hills, lush live oaks, and limestone outcroppings.

But for motorcyclists, the road can also be dangerous—a sign off of FM 336 warns that 10 bikers have lost their lives on the Twisted Sisters since 2006. However, for experienced motorcycle enthusiasts, the twists, turns, and occasionally bumpy pavement of the famed loop are a delight to experience.

The Twisted Sisters ends and begins in the same place: Leakey, Texas, population 555. After the Twisted Sisters, consider relaxing by the banks of the Frio River, lined with bald cypress trees that turn a gorgeous shade of umber in the fall.

Texas’s stretch of old Route 66 will take you across the Panhandle.

Photo by TLF Images/Shutterstock

6. Route 66

• Starts: Shamrock
• Ends: Glenrio
• Distance: 164 miles

The Lone Star State is home to the shortest stretch of Route 66, a little under 165 miles (not everything is bigger in Texas), and it cuts almost straight across the Panhandle. As elsewhere in the USA, most of the road is not in service or has been demolished, but Route 66 mostly follows the modern path of Interstate 40. There are several Route 66–themed attractions to stop by during this drive, including the iconic, art deco–style U-Drop Inn and the public art installation of Cadillac Ranch . But perhaps one of the most famous stops is the Big Texan Steak Ranch , which serves 72-ounce steaks for free —if participants can eat the entire hunk of meat in less than an hour with no assistance.

Established in 1878, Gruene Hall may be the most famous dance hall in Texas.

Photo by Philip Arno Photography/Shutterstock

7. Gruene to Fredericksburg

• Starts: Gruene
• Ends: Fredericksburg
• Distance: 71 miles

This is probably one of this Texan’s favorite road trips on this list, mostly for sentimental reasons. As anyone who grew up in Central Texas knows, options for convenient day trips are scarce in the region, but Gruene and Fredericksburg are tried and true, and the drive between them is gorgeous.

Gruene (pronounced “green”) is a little German Texan town on the banks of the Guadalupe River; it is most famous for Gruene Hall , the state’s oldest continuously operating dance hall. Gruene Hall is something of a Texas legend and is worth visiting all on its own—musicians like Townes Van Zandt, Willie Nelson, and George Strait have played at the famed venue. Gruene was initially established by German immigrants interested in cotton farming; a giant cotton gin facility in town has been converted into the Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar , which has a fine view of the Guadalupe (its rushing waters once powered the gin).

The jaunt up to Fredericksburg, about 78 miles west of Austin, takes drivers through rolling Hill Country landscapes and vineyards. Much like Gruene, Fredericksburg was also settled by German immigrants and is famous for its German-style fare—consider stopping by the Old German Bakery and Restaurant on Main Street for some schnitzel and potato pancakes. Fredericksburg is famous for its peaches, so the best time to visit is in the summer when things like peach cider and ice cream are available and farm stands line the highways.

How do you know if you’re in East Texas? Take a deep breath—smell pine? You’re there.

Photo by @invadingkingdom/Unsplash

8. Houston to Sam Houston National Forest

Starts: Houston Ends: Sam Houston National Forest Distance: 47 miles Recommended time: An afternoon is fine, but plan an overnight visit to truly immerse yourself in the area.

The metropolitan crown jewel of East Texas is Houston (with its insanely delicious and diverse culinary scene ), but to get a taste of what the surrounding countryside is like, venture outside city limits to the Pineywoods . The Pineywoods of East Texas is a large area of woodlands that’s part of a bigger forest system that extends into Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Here, travelers will find swamps as well as heavily forested areas peppered with oak, mesquite, ash, elm, and, of course, pine trees. Hundreds of different bird, mammal, amphibian, and reptile species call the Pineywoods home, including the red-cockaded woodpecker, southern short-tailed shrew, and rafinesque big-eared bat. Keep a careful eye out for venomous water moccasin (aka cottonmouth) snakes as well as the fearsome American alligator.

One of the best and most convenient places to explore the Pineywoods from Houston is Sam Houston National Forest , just under an hour’s drive from the city. Day hikes like the Lone Star Hiking Trail or Double Lake Trail make it easy to get a sense of the area in a few hours, but there are overnight camping options in the park as well. Try visiting in the spring or fall to avoid those broiling Texas summer temperatures. If you’re looking for a place to cool off, head to the Blue Lagoon , an old limestone quarry that’s been turned into a swimming hole. Though it primarily caters to scuba divers, casual swimmers are also welcome.

Huntsville is only a 10-minute drive from Sam Houston National Forest. The town is infamously the home of the Texas State Penitentiary at Huntsville, which houses the Death Row unit of the state. In Huntsville, travelers can visit the Texas Prison Museum , which is dedicated to “preserving the history and the culture of the Texas prison system.” Inside, there are exhibits that cover Bonnie and Clyde, the history of how the state’s penitentiary system grew, plus a display dedicated to those who were proven innocent after being wrongly executed by the state—it’s an intense, but sobering experience.

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The Family Vacation Guide

20 of the Best Family Road Trips in Texas

posted by James Brockbank on December 8, 2021 // last updated on December 8, 2021

Howdy, y’all! Is your family looking for fun ideas for close-to-home vacations in the Lone Star State? Texas is the second-largest state in the United States and offers many educational, fun, and nature-filled road trip adventures for the entire family. 

Whether the gang wants to drive far and spend a few nights basking in nature or take a short drive to somewhere beautiful, we’ve got the 20 best family road trips in Texas to help you get inspired for your next family vacation. 

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Big bend national park , enchanted rock state park , port aransas & mustang island state park , galveston island , fort worth , garner state park , san antonio , brenham and round top, amarillo , grapevine , bandera , spicewood , new braunfels , corpus christi , austin , dallas , houston .

Just a short drive outside of Fort Worth, the Dinosaur Valley State Park is an incredible road trip adventure for the entire family. For families with little ones who get a thrill out of dinosaurs, this is a dream trip that allows you to literally walk in the footsteps of these prehistoric creatures. 

Located near Glen Rose, Texas, your family can explore over twenty miles of trails along the Paluxy River and look for visible dinosaur prints. There are also two giant dinosaur statues that the kids will go wild over. Other options include camping, picnicking, mountain biking, swimming, horseback riding, and more. 

You can take a guided tour of the 1,500-acre park or download the dinosaur print map on your phone and try and spot them all for yourself.

Children twelve years and under have free entrance here for day use. Anyone over the age of thirteen must pay a $7 entrance fee. 

If you plan on hitting up multiple destinations on this list, consider getting a Texas State Parks Pass which gives you unlimited access to nearly 90 different national parks in the state. Y’all will also get discounts on camping fees, park store purchases, and equipment rental. 

To visit the Dinosaur Valley State Park from Austin, head north for around three hours. From Fort Worth, head south then west along Route 67 for about a one-hour road trip. 

The Big Bend National Park is a protected park in West Texas that spans over 800,000 hectares of scenic landscapes. This location is one of the best family road trips in Texas for the incredible scenery the whole family will enjoy during the drive and within the park. 

Enjoy family camping, day hikes, and exciting educational exhibits about animals, plants, sea fossils, dinosaur bones, and birds found in the area. 

Take the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and explore thirty miles of gorgeous landscapes as you and the family take pictures at various overlooks, viewpoints, and canyons.

Big Bend charges entrance fees per vehicle. Families coming here in the same car will only need to pay $30, which gives the whole family access to the park for seven days. Camping fees depend on which campground your family prefers and can cost anywhere between $16-$10 per night. 

Big Bend National Park is an eight-hour drive from Dallas and about a seven-hour drive along Route 10 from Austin. 

One of the best family road trips in Texas is a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area .

Located in Fredericksburg, Texas, the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area has been a protected historical landmark since 1936 and a national natural landmark since 1971. It has over eleven miles of hiking trails, but its claim to fame is a 425-foot pink granite natural rock formation called a batholith. 

Here the family can learn about rock formations and geology while taking in the natural scenery of the unique landscapes. Listen to folklore and stories about why many local tribes deem this area enchanted. In fact, archeological evidence suggested humans inhabited this natural area even 12,000 years ago, giving the region a rich history worth learning about on your vacation. 

Note that you cannot swim at Enchanted Rock State Park nor ride bikes on the hiking trails. 

If you have a Texas State Parks Pass, it includes this park. Otherwise, entrance fees are $8 for visitors aged thirteen and up or free for children twelve years old or younger. 

Head west for about two hours from Austin to visit this state park. If coming from Dallas, plan for four hours of car time as you head southwest to this natural wonderland. 

Port Aransas is a beach community and city located on Mustang Island well worth a visit on your next family road trip in Texas. 

The Mustang Island State Park has five miles of coast where the entire family can enjoy surfing, swimming at the beach, kayaking, and fishing in the bay. Camping here has electricity and hot water for added comfort. 

Port Aransas Beach is on the northernmost point of Mustang Island. It is within walking distance to the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center , which has a 700-foot boardwalk that allows parents and kids to walk over the freshwater wetlands and take in the spectacular animals and vistas. 

From Dallas, Port Aransas is about a six-hour drive south. From Austin, it’s around four hours of driving time. Parking permits to park near the beach in Port Aransas are $12 per day. 

Just a short drive outside of Houston, Galveston is a coastal island city with so many family activities to do along the way and once you arrive. 

Most notably is the Moody Gardens Aquarium that gives the kids an opportunity to see sharks, penguins, and exotic rainforest animals. 

Families will love heading to the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier for rollercoasters and water rides that are sure to thrill the whole family. The smell of funnel cakes permeates the air and will draw you to the delicious dining options that include a Brewing Station for the parents. 

Or dive into nature at the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge or the Galveston Island State Park. Here you can rent a lodge or go camping, hike along trails, mountain bike, fish, and so much more. 

Galveston Island is only a one-hour drive outside of Houston. Pack some snacks and movies for the 4-5 hour drive from Dallas or Austin. 

Fort Worth is a town just outside of Dallas and is an excellent place for the family to escape for some together time. 

Immerse yourself into cowboy culture by visiting a cattle drive, rodeo, or the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame . Kids love to explore the Fort Worth Zoo with over 7,000 different animals to see and learn about. Check out the Kimbell Art Museum with paintings from world-famous artists if your family enjoys art. 

Another highlight of Fort Worth is the wide variety of restaurant options for some famous Texan flavors. 

Perfect for long and short family roads trip in Texas, Fort Worth is only about forty-five minutes from Dallas and a three-hour drive north of Austin. 

Garner State Park is a wonder to behold, especially on an autumn family road trip when the forest leaves change into a sunset of colors. 

This state park has sixteen miles of trails for scenic hiking that the entire family will enjoy. Jump into the Frio River or enjoy fishing from its shores. The concession building is where it’s at for nighttime fun as everyone gathers to dance around an old-school jukebox. 

Depending on how your family best enjoys their time in nature, you can reserve a cabin or campsite. 

Entrance fees for visitors aged thirteen and up is $8 and free for kids aged twelve and under. 

Garner State Park is approximately five and a half hours southwest of Dallas, so pack some snacks and fun driving activities for this family Texas road trip. If your family is heading to Garner State Park from Austin, expect a drive time of around three hours. 

Waco is a superb destination for a scenic and fun family road trip in Texas. Located in central Texas, Waco has many things to see for the entire family to enjoy. 

If your kids get a kick out of animals, then the Cameron Park Zoo should be one of your first stops. With nearly 2,000 different animals, visitors will have a chance to see their favorite animal and learn something new at the same time. Or head to the Waco Mammoth National Monument to learn about wooly mammoths and see their prehistoric bones. 

If sports are more your family’s thing, then you shouldn’t miss the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. Here you can learn about sports history from 1951 and onwards. Have fun placing your hands up against famous NBA players’ handprints and other interactive exhibits. 

For outdoor recreation, explore Lake Waco, local farmers markets, and many areas for family picnics. 

Last but not least, Waco is home to the Dr. Pepper Museum. Here, you and the family can learn about the oldest drink manufacturer in the United States and, of course, taste some of the delicious products. 

From Austin, Waco is a two-hour drive going north. From Dallas, it is about a two-hour drive, headed south.

San Antonio houses the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas, the San Antonio Mission National Historical Park. Head here for one of the best family road trips in Texas. 

Drive through scenic Texan landscapes as you arrive into this historical city with a lot to discover and explore. 

Walk the 8-mile stretch along the scenic San Antonio River and visit the Spanish colonial missions Concepción, San José, San Juan, and Espada. Your family will learn about life in Texas in the 18th century. 

“Remember the Alamo!” at the Alamo San Antonio and Alamo Gardens with interactive tours and exhibits that are an educational and fun experience for everyone in the fam. Watch demonstrations about frontier life with a visit to the Living History encampment. 

San Antonio also has the Sea Life Aquarium and a LEGOLAND® Discovery center that are both sure to widen your kid’s eyes and bring a smile to their faces. 

San Antonio is approximately four and a half to five hours southwest of Dallas. From Austin, head south on Route 35 for a two-hour family road trip. 

Why not check out our guide to the best family hotels in San Antonio ?

Round Top and Brenham are two small Texas towns for short family road trips an hour’s drive away from both Houston and Austin. 

Brenham is known as a must-stop for authentic and delicious Texas BBQ. It also houses an annual Texas Arts and Music Festival that will give the whole family new things to see and hear to inspire the kids for their next school art project. 

With plenty of museums, wineries, parks, shopping, and even the Blue Bell Aquatic Center, there are things to do in Brenham to keep the whole family entertained.  

Nearby is the small town of Round Top, where the family will enjoy the oddities they spot at the local antique fair held twice each year. 

If your starting destination is Dallas, drive south for around four hours and pass through many picturesque landscapes and cute towns as you venture forth on your family road-trip adventure. 

The Texas Panhandle has many amazing stops for family road trips in Texas, and Amarillo is the largest city located in the Panhandle region. Head here for your next family road trip for all the beautiful stops along the way – or make this your final destination. 

Check out Cadillac Ranch, a permanent art installation of ten upturned Cadillacs that have now been colorfully covered in graffiti and make for really cool family photoshoots. 

The Palo Duro Canyon State Park is another must-visit during your family road trip through the Texas Panhandle. Here you can hike and take in the iconic scenery of the second largest canyon in the United States after the Grand Canyon. 

There’s also the Wonderland Amusement Park with rollercoasters, arcade games, and rides for all ages to get a thrill out of Amarillo. 

Drive five and a half hours northwest from Dallas to visit Amarillo. If coming from Austin, you’ll have nearly eight hours straight of driving if you don’t make stops at the many scenic spots along the way. 

Grapevine is right in between Dallas and Fort Worth, making it a quick family getaway if you’re starting out from either of these locations. If not, it is a fantastic family road trip option for families also looking to spend time getting to know more of Fort Worth and Dallas. 

True to its name, parents and adult family members can expect some world-class wine tasting in Grapevine. On the other hand, kids will have their fill of fun at the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center and Sea Life Aquarium. 

Check out a glassblowing studio or see if your family can work as a team to get out of an escape room in the allotted time. Then, finish your day with a murder mystery dinner. 

Stay at the Great Wolf Lodge for the whole family to enjoy the waterpark, fun MagiQuest, rope courses, arcade games, and even a Build-A-Bear workshop. 

Grapevine is around three hours north of Austin. Heading up Highway 35, you can easily incorporate a stop in Waco on your way from Austin to Grapevine. 

Close to San Antonio, Bandera is a tiny town nicknamed the cowboy capital of the world . If your little ones love all things cowboy and cowgirl, this is definitely a destination to add during one of the best family road trips in Texas. 

You can find anything cowboy-themed here. Horseback riding is a must, but you can also head to the waterpark or jump into the Medina River. 

Visit the Natural History Museum and the Frontier Times Museum or even see the historic Bandera county jailhouse. Your family has a wide choice of things to do, like checking out a rodeo, going ziplining, or hunting for antiques.  

You can visit both Bandera and San Antonio on one great road trip. If you’re driving from Dallas, plan for around five and half hours of driving time though there are many tempting stops along the way. 

Fort Davis, Marfa, and Alpine 

Fort Davis, Marfa, and Alpine are three small towns located on the western border of Texas. Here you can really immerse yourself into the picturesque desert landscapes and explore some of the lesser-seen sides of Texas. 

Go on historic walking tours with the family to get a feel for these small towns brimming with history and aching to tell their stories. You can tell dad that there’s also a 9-hole golf course with some incredible views at the Alpine Country Club. 

Take a scenic drive on Highway 166 through the Davis Mountains, then go for a short hike at the Fort Davis National Historic Site. 

Driving directly from Dallas to any of these three towns will take approximately seven and a half to eight and a half hours, depending on traffic. If driving to one of these western towns from Austin, the drive time will be around six and a half to seven hours. 

Located along the snaking Colorado River, Spicewood is a natural paradise your family will be so happy to escape to on a memorable family road trip away from home. 

Krause Springs is a spot worth checking out for natural hot springs and geysers. There are numerous recreational areas, vineyards, and distilleries worth visiting if your family members are interested in those activities. 

While there are many camping spots and hotels to choose from, your family will surely get a kick out of sleeping at a treehouse hotel. For even more treetop views, go on a ziplining adventure that ends with a splash in the river. 

From Austin, Spicewood is only forty-five minutes up Highway 71. From Dallas, your family will need about four hours in the car to arrive at their fun-filled destination.

German settlers founded New Braunfels , a small town in Texas located on the Guadalupe and Comal rivers. This town is filled with antique shops, outdoor adventures, and great shopping. 

Landa Park, Canyon Lake, and The Natural Bridge Caverns are fantastic options as a first taste of the fun outdoor activities that New Braunfels has to offer. 

Head to the McKenna Children’s Museum for interactive exhibits about science, space, culture, and technology to promote enjoyable educational opportunities. Your family might also love to catch a play at the Circle Arts Theatre. 

New Braunfels is about four hours by car from Dallas, Texas. New Braunfels is a shorter forty-five-minute to one-hour drive from Austin. 

Corpus Christi is one of the major cities in Texas that is a great place to park and stretch your legs during your Texas family road trip. 

The top sites to see include the Texas State Aquarium and, of course, South Padre Island . These destinations ensure a fun beach-time getaway by the ocean. 

Austin is the capital city of Texas and is brimming with unique activities for families discovering the best family road trips in Texas. 

As the capital, you can expect plenty of options for museums, art galleries, and lots of live blues and country music. On top of that, there are endless dining options that even the pickiest eater of your family will have a hard time turning their nose down at. 

Why not check out our guide to the best family hotels in Austin for inspiration on where to stay?

Dallas is another major Texas city that your family needs to see during your next road trip, especially if you plan to head to Fort Worth, Grapevine, or anywhere else north of Waco. 

Dallas boasts the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, the Dallas Museum of Art, and a Six Flags amusement park. 

Why not check out our guide to the best family hotels in Dallas for inspiration on where to stay?

As the hometown of Beyonce, Houston doesn’t need to brag much about the other things worth doing here when there’s a slight chance you could spot the visiting superstar roaming around town. 

If your kids or more fans of stars than superstars, Houston is still a great place to visit during your family road trip since it is also the hometown of the Houston Space Center. NASA astronauts receive training here, and your kids can get an up-close look at what that space program is like. 

Why not check out our guide to the best family hotels in Houston for inspiration on where to stay?

Start the Car 

Get your family ready to start the car and explore some of the best family road trips in Texas! Since everything really is bigger in Texas, be sure to keep your eyes peeled and your camera charged because there are so many wonderful things to see and do for the whole family.

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

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17 Fantastic Texas Road Trip Ideas (2024)

Fancy a drive?

If you’re feelin’ the need for speed, fire up the family speed wagon, rent a convertible for you and your best pal, and keep reading for some awesome Texas road trip ideas.

Jump in a car and head out of town to be transported to the old west, see the stars and sights in Texas’ magnificent Hill Country, or soak up some sun along the Texas coastline.

Follow the map below as your plan your next adventure and remember, it’s not the destination, it’s the journey.

Hey! Want more super helpful Texas guides? Check these out!

• 19 Incredible Texas AirBnbs
• 15 Amazing Texas Hotels
• 17 Best Beaches in Texas
• 25 Enchanting Castles in Texas
• 11+ Best Beach Towns in Texas
• 19 Best Things to Do in Austin, Texas
• 19 Fantastic Day Trips from Houston
• 21 Charming & Romantic Getaways in Texas for Couples
• 31 Fun Things to Do in El Paso, Texas

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How to get around Texas as a visitor

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

Don’t forget to pack…

For all of your road trip hacks, don’t forget to bring:

• roadside emergency kit: always have an emergency kit like this one on hand – this is our non-negotiable for road trips
• foldable car trash can: you’d be surprised how much trash you can accumulate in a road trip! Keep it all stored in this awesome foldable car trash can until you get to your next stop
• car power charger: keep all of those electronics charged using this extension for your power port, including 4 USB plugs and 2 regular plugs!

West Texas Road Trips

Starting at El Paso, there are lots of places in West Texas to visit, and with lots of open road.

It’s the perfect place to start your Texas road trip itinerary.

Just three hours’ drive is Marfa , and the infamous Prada Marfa art installation, which makes for a great Texas day trip .

Snap a pic in your best road trip outfit, or window shop on your way into town.  

It’s a small town with big appeal.

There’s a quirky art scene with lots of local galleries and places to pick up some one-of-a-kind Texas pottery.  

Grab a spot at the viewing area at dusk and debate what causes the infamous Marfa Lights.

Scientists can’t explain it, but maybe you’ll develop a new theory?

The lights are just a warmup for your next road trip destination – the McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis . 

2. McDonald Observatory

Just 45 minutes from Marfa and three hours from El Paso is the BEST star gazing in all the lone star state, really in all of the continental U.S.!

Book passes early for the Evening Sky Viewing and Star Party, $25 for adults and only $5 for children, with military discounts.

Held every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, spend two hours on the top of Mount Locke in the Davies Mountains with a guided open-air constellation tour and live telescope viewing in the amphitheater. 

You’ll see the darkest sky lit up by the brightest stars, which is a once in a lifetime experience.

3. Fort Davis Historic Site

If you’ve gotten into Fort Davis a bit early for the star party, check out the Fort Davis Historic Site.

A must-see for Texas history buffs and a step back in time for those looking to escape the everyday on their road trip.

The site is a former military post from the 1880s during the American Indian Wars, and the buildings have been restored to that time period.

Listen for the bugle call which sounds on a daily schedule to add some authenticity to your visit.

Learn about the famed Buffalo Soldiers, take a hike in frontier land, or kids can go on a scavenger hunt to become a Junior Park Ranger – even earning a ranger badge to wear proudly on the rest of your road trip!

Worked up an appetite?

Stop by the Fort Davis Drug Store , a legend known for its’ Southern fare.

The drug store turned full-service restaurant offers the most flavorful chicken fried steak you’ve ever tasted.

And it should be, as this place invented it!

That’s right, the Fort Davis Drug Store is home to the original recipe.

4. Big Bend Ranch State Park

Staying in West Texas, follow the renowned River Road, or El Camino del Rio through Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Talk about a scenic drive – this one has it all!

Travel along the 50-mile stretch between Lajitas and Presidio following the Rio Grande River to see wildlife and remote Texas prairie land.

Reach the “Big Hill” for an awe-inspiring picnicking spot overlooking the Chisos Mountains, Colorado Canyon, river and mountains straddling Mexico. 

With 238 miles of trails, this is an excellent time to stretch your legs with a hike.

The Park offers trails for varying levels, good for both families and those more experienced.

Closed Canyon is highly recommended as a short 1.5-mile moderate trek deep into a canyon.

Be careful about the 12 ft. drop!

Fill up your tank and bring all the essentials as the park is not near modern conveniences.

It takes about 4.5 hours to get there from El Paso or 1.5 hours from Marfa. 

Worth the drive if you’re looking to catch up with the great outdoors.

Best Texas Road Trips for Couples

In north Texas, you’ll find some ultimate road trips in Texas between Amarillo and Lubbock .

Only an hour and 45 minutes apart, with loads of stops in between, you’ll want to grab a friend for these next ideas.

5. Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo

Driving along Route 66, find your kicks with quick a stop at Cadillac Ranch .

It’s the quintessential road trip stop with a short but fun agenda.

Buried in the ground are 10 Cadillacs from a 1974 sculptural art installation.

Graffiti artists have been leaving their own mark on these rusty frames ever since, causing a Jackson Pollock like drip effect.

It’s the perfect setting for your desert meets urban photo session.

Free to enter anytime, but a bit of a hike to get there from the road, you can BYO-paint or purchase a can from the gift shop. 

The Cadillac RV Park and Gift Shop is located 2 minutes away and has kitsch galore – souvenirs, t-shirts, snacks, and plenty of Caddy themed merch for your own vehicle.

And with friendly staff, clean restrooms, and everything at reasonable prices, it’s the ultimate roadside pit stop.

6. The Big Texas Steak Ranch and Brewery

On the other side of Amarillo, don’t miss the Big Texas Steak Ranch & Brewery .

Being in the car all day sure does work up an appetite.

Are you up to the 72-oz. steak challenge?

7. Will Rogers Range Riders Rodeo

This area of Texas is well-known for being horse country, with plenty of places to stop for a trail ride. 

Why not be a little more adventurous and plan ahead for a truly Texas experience – a rodeo!

Held on Amarillo Rodeo Grounds, the Will Rogers Range Riders Rodeo occurs the last weekend in June with day tickets at $15 (under 12 free) or a weekend pass for $40. 

Park on the grounds and strap in to watch a full day of steer wrestling, bronc and bull riding, and barrel racing.

Only in Texas!

8. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Time now to switch your ride for something a bit different – choose either horses or a Jeep.

Rent your own horse for the day at Palo Duro Riding Stables or Palo Duro Canyon Jeep and Horseback Rides.  

Both are rated highly for their care of the horses and love of the land.

Costs vary depending on size of the party and how long you’d like to be out but count on a starting rate of $35 per person.

Kids must be of a certain age and weight to ride.

Guided rides on horseback or tours in a Jeep are available.

The Park also offers hiking trails for those who prefer to travel on foot. 

Plan your route as there are many options for length and climbing challenge. 

Be sure to lather up with sunscreen and bring water as the Texas sun can be brutal here.

9. Bar Z Winery

Need some refreshments after your hike?

Next stop is Canyon, near Palo Duro, where you’ll want to grab a seat for some of the area’s best wine from local grapes.

On a nice day, select a flight to taste outside, where the beautiful Texas landscape matches the warm hospitality.

Head indoors to kick your feet up on the couches and chill with your favorite person, watch whatever national Texas team is playing that night, or just vibe to the live music.

Either way, it will be a memorable moment on your dreamy Texas road trip.

Best Family Road Trips from Texas

10. wichita falls.

Blink and you might miss this pitstop a little under two hours northwest of Dallas/Fort Worth.

But what it lacks in size it makes up for in places worth stopping for on the itinerary.

First up, the “ world’s littlest skyscraper ” found at 701 La Salle.

This small building has an interesting beginning, involving a businessman that skipped town with his investor’s money after promising a 40-story skyscraper.

Find out what happened when you visit, as it’s an interesting business lesson to ponder when you hop back on the road. 

Sitting on the Wichita River, find Lucy Park to give the kids time to stretch their legs, have a picnic or jump in the pool. 

There’s even a man-made waterfall for some cooling off time.

Originally a cattle and oil hub, today Wichita Falls boasts an acclaimed arts and culture scene with two love theatre troupes and a ballet school.

Check schedules before you venture out to catch a performance while you’re in town.

11. Nacogdoches

Nacogdoches is a sweet spot equally situated between Dallas and Houston , worth a swing by on your way in either direction.

This is the oldest town in Texas with lots to do as you pass through.

Step back in time at Millard’s Crossing Historic Village , with a tour through an 1800’s pioneer village featuring wood and leather crafts makers, and blacksmithing during certain months.

Kids enjoy the log homes, displays with authentic artifacts, and interacting with the shopkeepers for a turn the clocks back experience sure to keep them talking for hours back in the car.

Visit during the Blueberry Jam music festival or drive through the impressive lights display during the holidays.

A great place to refresh after hiking or exploring any of the three surrounding national forest areas.

South Texas offers loads of fun Texas road trips around San Antonio and Houston.

12. Banderas

An hour north of San Antonio is the self-proclaimed Cowboy Capital of the World, Banderas .

Known as the place where Apache and Comanche Indians fought the Spanish Conquistadors, then later becoming a staging area for the last great cattle drives in the 1800’s, this lively town is home today to many National Rodeo Champions.

First, stop by the Visitors Center for a map of scenic drives and rides found throughout the area.

They’ve done all the work for you, just bring a bike or car and choose your own adventure.

One of the favorite drives is called the Three Sisters or Twisted Sisters, which follows winding roads along picturesque vistas, limestone paths, valleys, and rivers.

You may just plan an entire day for this one postcard-worth route.

Back in Banderas, take your pick of activities between horseback riding, golf, hunting, rodeos, shopping, wineries, or dancing to live music played on the main street every weekend.

Nearby dude ranches make for an interesting overnight activity for the family or group of friends.

Count this stop as one of the best family road trips in Texas.

13. Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is just over an hour northwest of San Antonio , but full of outings for everyone.

First stop is the Pioneer Museum , one of the best museums in Texas , which tells the story of the German settlers and features displays on the Hill Country heritage through a self-guided tour on the 3.5-acre property.

Price is $15-20 per person, but the staff are knowledgeable and friendly.

There’s also plenty of Fredericksburg tours to uncover, including the Fredericksburg trolley tour which is a must for families and the Fredericksburg Winery Tour .

If you’re still keen for more, next visit the National Museum of the Pacific War.

This vast space was voted as the fifth-best history museum in the United States by USA Today readers in 2020.

Strolling through the grounds expect to see WWII exhibits and artifacts, including a highlight for history buffs – a recreated combat zone.

Reenactments take place on the ground throughout the year.

Book your tickets in advance for $16 per person, with discounts for children, seniors and military. 

Ultimate Texas Road Trip Ideas

14. urban wine trail.

Hire a designated driver for this next road trip idea.

Consider a group trip roaming through the Urban Wine Trail , which includes 50 wineries located throughout Texas Hill Country, 10 of which are in downtown Fredericksburg alone.

Enjoy a glass to go while you shop and stroll along main street, on your way to the next local watering hole.

Moving further into north Texas, add Waco to the list of destinations for your journey across the state. 

Equi-distant between Austin and Dallas (making it a great day trip from Austin ), this Heart of Texas spot has lots more to offer outside of the famous Magnolia Silos (which offers fun for everyone and you should definitely check out on one of these Fixer Upper tours !)

Families love the Dr Pepper Museum, the original home of America’s favorite cherry flavored soda. 

Make the most of your time with one of the soda themed experiences – make-your-own flavor, create your own tasting (soda this time, not wine), or check out the paranormal tour if you’re bold.

These extras range in coast form $10 up to $30 per person, with limitations on age for the paranormal experience.

Kids love being soda scientists and creating their own concoction.

No need for another souvenir when they can bring home their very own bottle.

Last, travel back to the wild west with a visit to the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum .

Located on the Brazos River, fans of the nation’s oldest law enforcement agency won’t want to miss this stop to learn more about this storied time in American history.

Admission is $8 and the gift shop has plenty of exceptional gifts for anyone that couldn’t hop in the car with you for a quick getaway.

Personal favorite?

The Texas state flag belt buckle. 

16. Corpus Christi

Two hours from San Antonio and three from Houston, Corpus Christi is a go to destination for road tripping and one of the best places to visit in Texas .

Loads of sea life exploration with a visit to the Texas State Aquarium , or dolphin excursions.

Leave the car behind and book the sunset tour with Dolphin Watch Nature Tours or this incredible glowing kayak tour .

Best prices in the area for a trip out on the water to view all kinds of sea animals.

They offer family-friendly day tours too, each costing an average of $35 per person.

Lots of options for other activities including jet ski rentals, kayaking, hiking, boating, fishing and more.

Add this one to your schedule for a chance to soak up the sun as you cruise around Corpus Christi Bay.

17. Texas Coastline

While you’re there, drive along the Texas coastline, stopping at any number of Texas beach towns along the way.

From South Padre Island up to Galveston , each sandy spot offers a different place to cool off with a dip in the water, climb up lighthouses for a scenic Gulf view, or stop at a local seafood shack for some of the freshest catch of the day you’ll rave about for years to come.

Feeling inspired to hop in the car and go?

Pack a cooler, fill up, roll the windows down and coast to any of these destinations for a memorable road trip.

Don’t just drive through Texas, stop and learn along the way.

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Texas Road Trip

23 Amazing Family Road Trip Ideas In Texas

23 Most amazing family road trip ideas in Texas are right here.

There’s no place like Texas. And there’s no better way to experience it than a road trip with your family. We’ve put together 23 of the most amazing family road trip ideas in Texas so you can get out there and explore this great state with your loved ones. Some may be obvious, and some might not have even crossed your mind. It’s worth a look. I have a 13-year-old grandson that I raise who will get mighty bored if we don’t go anywhere, so I’m off to find fun things for us and you, too!

Whether you’re looking for something that’ll get everyone talking or just looking for an easy ride through some beautiful scenery, we’ve got you covered.

Family Road Trip Ideas In Texas

If you’re planning a kid-friendly trip, these ideas are some of the most common. Considering factors such as length of stay, the age of your children, and if you want to take your pet, you can plan a vacation that your kids and yourself will remember forever.

1. Texas State Parks

Camp out at your nearest state park or another one further down the road. State parks offer kids outdoor activities, like canoeing, hiking, geocaching, swimming, etc. If you’re not a tent camper like me, some state parks have cabins and screened shelters with cots to rent. We like to go geocaching in state parks because they make sure the treasure is usually there, unlike some places we’ve been to where there’s nothing to find when you get there. Be sure you download the geocaching app before you leave home.

I’ll never forget our day trip to  Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, TX. Seeing those dinosaur footprints for the first time was a woozer. Besides searching for dinosaur tracks in the cold water, the kids also went geocaching, had a picnic, and hiked as much as possible until we got tired. If you go to this state park, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is a short drive and close to Dinosaur World. You could probably make a pretty fun weekend right in Glen Rose.

Or how about a hatchery tour at Sea Center Texas? It’s under the umbrella of the Texas State Parks located in Lake Jackson, TX, near Brazosport …and admission is free.

2. Texas Water Parks Trip Ideas In Texas

Water parks in Texas are preparing for their opening day in May, and some offer specials on season passes. Take a look here at the Texas Water Parks Open for 2023 .

3. Jellystone Parks In Texas

Why yes, Yogi Bear still exists! Did you know there are five Jellystone Parks in Texas? They are all spread out in the Lone Star State. Earlier this month, my grandson and I enjoyed staying at the North Texas Jellystone Park in Burleson, TX. He had a blast, and I got to act like a kid, too!

The other four are in or near Tyler, Houston, Texas Hill Country, and San Antonio.

And, if you vacation with your grandkids, you may want to read about the  best Texas towns to visit with your grandkids . I’ve taken mine to a lot of them.

4. Texas Area Lakes

We have tons of lakes to use. And I’m sure camping spots will fill up quickly in summer and fall. If you’re not a tent camper, this is the year to try it out. Yikes, I can’t believe I said that!! But bring your kayak and stay in the water all day or fish from the bank or a pier. This is probably one of the cheapest vacations you and the kids will enjoy.

5. Stay In A Yurt Or Glamping Tent

Do you know that companies like Hipcamp, Tentrr, and Airbnb have yurts, glamping tents, and camping areas that may be in the next town over from you? Staying in a yurt or glamping tent is an experience; some are on a river, lake, or in the woods. You never know where they might be unless you look. Try looking up the next town from you and seeing what you find.

6. Staycation At A Nearby Hotel or A Resort

Have you noticed some of these new hotels have more amenities than ever? Like live music at night, an outdoor lounge area with yard lights lit up at night, drink specials at the bar for the adults, and more. The ones that come to mind are Texican Court in Las Colinas and  Cavalry Court in College Station.

Or what about a resort hotel with many amenities for kids and families? Great Wolf Lodge might not be a bad idea. No spoiling the fun with that indoor pool.

7. Stay At A Guest Ranch

Depending on where you live, you may have a guest ranch near you. But if not, maybe a short road trip might be worth it. Guest Ranches have some activities on the ranch, like horseback riding and perhaps fishing, but indeed, time out in nature, hiking, and good hearty meals. Check it out.

8. Rent An RV

Camping season is upon us, and road-tripping in an RV for the first time might be fun. There are over 18,000 campgrounds in Texas that allow RVs. The pets can come, you make your meals if you want, and some campgrounds have fun weekly activities all lined up. And, best of all, you don’t have to go that far to enjoy an RV camping experience. Ending the day with a homemade meal cooked over the campfire or portable grill would be heaven for this girl. This could very well be an inexpensive road trip you’ve been looking for.

There is even a website where you can actually go to the campsite of your wish and rent an RV that is already hooked up, so all you have to do is make it your home for however long you rented it.

Try GOrving.com for that.

9. Take A Zipline Road Trip

Indeed, there is a zipline course near you. Take the whole family and go ziplining for the day. It’s an adventure and one I must confess that I love. Maybe that’s why I’m mentioning it here. I know not everyone loves the idea of flying through the air attached to a cable, but it sure is fun! My kid loves it, too. In the above photo, we were at the NY Texas Zipline Course in LaRue, TX (East Texas). That’s the city of Tyler behind us.

10. Find A Haunted Town

There are haunted towns and places in Texas just waiting for you. Most are haunted all year long – HA! Check out the  Haunted Towns and Places In Texas  that we found. Halloween might be the only time you’ll find a haunted house, but haunted towns are year-round destinations …because they’re haunted!!

11. Trek A National Park In Texas

Big Bend National Park has abundant outdoor adventures and would make a fantastic Texas road trip with the family. Providing you all like the outdoors, this is a great place for a day hike with great views of the mountains and the Rio Grande. It would be an unforgettable family vacation for sure. Bring more water than you think you’ll ever need.

There are entrance fees per vehicle. Last year it was $30. FYI, if you have a Texas State Park pass, you won’t be able to use it here.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is Texas’ other national park in far West Texas and east of El Paso. You may want to go here if you like hiking ancient fossil reefs. Entrance fees here are $10 a person.

12. South Padre Island

If you don’t like crowds, you may want to go to the beach in the off-season, but the weather is still great. It doesn’t ever get that cold in Padre, so going any time other than summer is good.

13. Port Aransas Beach

Again, going to a beach in the off-season may be a better choice for you and your family. Not only will it be less crowded, but prices may have dropped as it goes into its off-season. I remember a time when my grandson swam at the beach in October. We had no idea that could be possible and didn’t pack his swimsuit. We let him go in – clothes and all.

14. New Braunfels For The Win

There is much to do in the town all year round. The Guadalupe River is fun any time …but the water does get cold. Many restaurants and places to stay are all over town, from cabins on the rivers to hotels and Airbnb.

15. Canoe The Colorado River

Canoeing the Colorado River is a great option for beginners. When I was there many years ago, there weren’t many rapids in the water, so it wasn’t terrifying. But hey, I’m terrified of large white caps!

Here are the towns the river runs through – take your pick.

Marble Falls, Austin, Bastrop, Smithville, La Grange, Columbus, Wharton, and Bay City.

​16. Road Trip to Small Towns East of Dallas

My thought is the four towns that make up Washington County – Brenham, Caldwell, Washington, & Burton . There are a lot of historic sites in this part of Texas, especially in Washington, where 59 delegates from all parts of Texas met at Washington, Texas, to formally declare independence from Mexico and to sign the papers. There’s even a tour guide to tell you all about it. I took my grandson when he was in the 5th grade, and he was so interested because he had already studied it in school. Each small town has something they boast about.

17. Fort Worth Stockyards

I highly recommend Cowtown, aka the Fort Worth Stockyards, especially if you’ve never been. You need to go to this place at least once in your life to say you’ve been there. Cattle drives happen every day at 11 am and again at 4 pm. It resembles the legendary Chisholm Trail from the late 1800s when cowboys and wranglers took the cattle down south to Abilene, Kansas.

18. Hike Enchanted Rock

After a long day of hiking Enchanted Rock, go into the town of Fredericksburg, TX, and have a glass of wine. There is a tasting room on just about every corner. You’ll want to make sure to spend some time in the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area for its scenic views of the mountains. Everyone who goes is in awe. Make reservations online before you go; all state parks only allow a certain number of people inside at a time. This park is busy, especially on a Saturday.

19.  Palo Duro Canyon – Texas Panhandle

Palo Duro Canyon, a Natural Wonder of Texas, should be on everyone’s travel list soon or later. It’s just as beautiful as the Grand Canyon. And if your family is into ziplining, you can do that over the canyon. You’ll forever want to do it again …but that’s coming from someone who got the ziplining bug after her first trip here.

If road tripping here, stop and see the Cadillacs all lined up in a row at the iconic Cadillac Ranch.

Tip: Bring a can of spray paint for each person and let them make their mark on the cars – yes, it’s allowed.​

20. Corpus Christi

Heard of Lively Beach? It’s a resort that caters to Corpus Christi beaches. It’s on Mustang Island, where everything is happening. Look for better deals in the off-season here too.

21. Galveston Island Beach

You can always take a road trip to Galveston. The food is good, and the beaches are okay. The entire family will have fun at Pleasure Pier. Stay until the evening when the party really starts! Moody Gardens would be an excellent place to check out – it’s got something fun for the whole family.

22. Go Tubing Down The Frio River

One of the best road trips I’ve taken with my grandson. We went four years ago and stayed with my uncle and his family. Brody had a blast jumping off the rocks and tubing down the river. Garner State Park is nearby, too, and I hear that this park has remarkable views.

23. San Marcos

San Marcos River in Central Texas, about 30 miles south of Austin right off Interstate 35, is a great place to consider for a family road trip in Texas. Though the river is cold, you’ll get used to it! I’m not really fond of cold water, but the kids love it. Tubing the San Marcos River is pretty cool if you’ve never done it. There are also places to jump off into the water. That’s what I remember when I was there as a kid.

I hope you’ve got something out of these family road trip ideas in Texas and are on your way to somewhere good!

About Kim Croisant

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

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Home » North America » USA » Texas » The Perfect Texas Road Trip

The Perfect Texas Road Trip

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: November 17, 2022

This fabulous Texas road trip itinerary is packed with sites we love. They’re some of the best places to visit in Texas—ones that don’t make it on most tourists’ radars. From the antiques of Round Top to the painted churches of Schulenberg and the wineries and attractions of Fredericksburg, these are the small towns mostly known about and loved only by Texans.

Day 1: Visit Brenham and Round Top

Day 2: see painted churches and jacobs well, day 3: visit dripping springs and hamilton pool, day 4: explore pedernales falls state park, hye, and stonewall, day 5: visit fredericksburg and luckenbach.

In Texas, Blue Bell ice cream is life. Like BBQ, Whataburger, and Dr. Pepper up the road in Waco , Blue Bell is a Texas staple. Going to see where it’s made in the small town of Brenham just 90 miles from Austin was the fulfillment of a childhood fantasy and the first of our road trip destinations.

The Blue Bell ice cream factory experience is designed to evoke a particular kind of nostalgia and small-town feel. In front of the charming red brick building, we were greeted by a shiny antique 1930s delivery truck and the US and Texas flags flying high against the blue sky. Inside, we donned our old-time soda jerk paper hats with the Blue Bell logo on the side and took a walk through company history.

From Blue Bell’s beginnings as a creamery in 1907 to its development as a major ice cream brand, the exhibit shows the company’s evolution and its importance to Brenham. Upstairs is where the magic is, though.

One floor up, a huge window observation deck peers down onto the production area where you can see employees moving across the floor in every state of making the cold treat. In one corner, the bright half-gallon tubs and pints moved across the conveyor belt being filled with what anyone in Texas will tell you is the best ice cream in the country, if not the world.

Around the corner from the observation deck is what people come to the factory for—the scoop shop. For just $1, you can get a scoop of any of the Blue Bell flavors. From homemade vanilla to mint chocolate chip and pecan pralines ‘n cream, they have it all. Choosing was the toughest part.

Full from our time at the scoop shop, we headed a few miles away into downtown Brenham.

When I was growing up, Blue Bell commercials showed an idyllic version of a Texas summer—swinging on the front porch, swimming, running outside. Sometimes the running was through a field of iconic bluebells—no coincidence on how the name of the ice cream was chosen. Much of that atmosphere remains in the Brenham area, but there’s definitely a cooler edge to it these days, too.

Downtown Brenham is decked out with some of the coolest murals. With pink bears, giant owls, and plenty of tributes to the state, we immediately had the feeling of being in a hip small town, not just a wide spot in the road between Austin and Houston.

Brenham has two beer gardens and a brewery, and you’ll find tapas alongside the fabulous BBQ and Southern food offerings in town. There’s a cozy used book store—the Book Nook —and even a handful of art galleries. Several nights a week, things come alive with live music at Home Sweet Farm , and a professional theater company has regular performances at the 125-seat Unity Theatre. For a town of only 16,000 residents, Brenham offers lots of things to do.

There’s more than enough to occupy your time in Brenham, especially on a weekend. So, if you want to explore more, stay for the night at the Ant Street Inn and enjoy its antique furnishings and stained glass.

After a few photos and snacks in Brenham, we headed on to nearby Round Top. There was pie in our future, and we would not be stopped!

We arrived in Round Top for a late lunch at Royers Round Top Café , a quirky and super popular destination in this super tiny (population: 90) town. On the outside, we were greeted with an eclectic, folksy mix of personality-filled signs and places to rest our feet while we waited for a table. Plus, there was an “honor cooler” of beer on the front porch to help pass the time.

Inside, the hospitality continued as we dug into the fish tacos and the Bud’s café salad. But pie is the thing here, so go light on the lunch and make sure you save room. Our choice was the sweet ‘n salty—a mix of fudge, caramel, and sea salt.

Having eaten our way through much of the day, it was time to do a bit of walking in the square a few steps away. We browsed the collection of art galleries and studios, which feature everything from fine art to antique dishes to saddles and spurs. We looked through some of the clothing shops and stopped for a minute under the oak trees at Royers Pie Haven, an offshoot of the café and the place to go if you’re only looking for their famous pies.

Round Top is the place to go for antiques, so if you’re visiting during one of the antique fairs, don’t miss the array of vendors in the big red barn. Otherwise, your best bet is to hit up some of the other shops and warehouses (mostly open on the weekends) along Highway 237.

The pink station wagon—complete with Longhorns on the front—drew us into Junk Gypsy , the decorators and collectors of HGTV fame. Curiously, there’s no junk, but there is plenty of unique merchandise to choose from to add a lot of shabby chic and personality to your home and wardrobe. There’s lots of furniture, jewelry, and country-themed decorations. I even found a crown to wear while I shopped around, which is always a sign of a good time.

For a fun place to stay, check out Junk Gypsy’s Wander Inn or the nearby Coyote Station Lodging .

Make a pit stop in the town of La Grange on your Texas roadtrip. The 90-year-old Weikel’s Bakery is a great place for a mid-morning snack of their famous kolaches. These award-winning fruit pastries reflect the area’s Czech heritage (more on that to come), and they’re delicious. I like the cherry and apple the most, but you can’t go wrong.

If you have time, take a walk by the gorgeous Fayette County Courthouse, which dates from 1891, or head to Monument Hill for more historic sites, including a stately stone home and the remains of one of the first breweries in Texas. Otherwise, get back on the road for a quick trip to the area’s painted churches .

The painted churches of Texas are not the kind of sites one might expect to see here. Across the landscape of the Hill Country, these 20 unassuming churches look like any small-town place of worship on the outside, but, inside, the craftsmanship is outstanding.

The churches are the work of German and Czech immigrants who settled the area beginning in the 1840s. They had left behind everything they knew in Europe but brought the love of their homeland with them. They christened their new towns with names from Europe—Moravia, Praha (“Prague” in Czech), and Weimar, among others—and they built churches that reminded them of where they came from.

We visited four of these lovely buildings that are located near each other and are easily accessible to the public. Although they’re all in different tiny towns (like Dubina: population 44), they are informally known as the painted churches of Schulenburg, which is the largest town nearby.

What makes these churches worth exploring are their eye-popping interiors. With brilliant colors, swirling ivy, life-sized statues, and ceilings and pillars painted to fool the eye, there are a lot of unique things to see.

Our first stop was in Ammansville to see the dusty rose interior of St. John the Baptist. With the unexpected color scheme and floor-to-ceiling decorative elements, it stands out even among this unique group of buildings. Just outside the church, the cemetery is clearly European-influenced and reminded me of our day at the famous Bone Church in Kutna Hora near Prague. Many of the tombstones have inscriptions in Czech and include birthplaces a continent away.

Our second road trip stop—and my favorite—was Saints Cyril and Methodius Church in Dubina. Although access to the small interior is limited by a gate, a stop here gave us a look at the bluest indoor sky we’d ever seen. Admittedly, it was something I had never known I was missing, but the colors were spectacular. Even without lights on, the sanctuary felt like it glowed from within.

To reach the next stop, we crossed over the locally-famous Piano Bridge, which is one of only a few remaining iron bridges in the US. Supposedly, the bridge got its name from the noise it made when cars drove over it. A renovation has quieted the “music,” but it’s still a pretty sight.

After a 6-mile drive, we arrived at the “Queen of the Painted Churches,” St. Mary’s Catholic Church in High Hill. With stained glass from Germany, outstanding statues, and remarkable paintings, this heavily-adorned church lived up to its name. Nearby, another St. Mary’s — St. Mary’s Church of the Assumption in Praha — has stars that grace the ceiling and walls and a beautiful white altar gilded in 24 karat gold. It’s clear that each one of these buildings was a source of pride for its congregations who spared no expense in making them as lovely as possible.

Lockhart is the perfect place for a late lunch on the second day of your Texas road trip. The town is famous as one of the best places to go for barbecue. Try Lockhart Chisholm Trail BBQ for pit-smoked barbecue sandwiches or head to Kreuz Market for their jalapeno cheddar sausage. If barbecue isn’t your preferred (don’t say that too loudly—Lockhart is the “barbecue capital of Texas”), check out delicious Market Street Café for their Monte Christo French toast sandwich or shrimp penne.

After a bit of history and a lot of barbecue, we made our way to Jacob’s Well Natural Area , a park near Wimberley . The 81-acre site is a great place for birding ( not our thing ), geocaching, and hanging out with wildlife, but the real appeal is its swimming spot.

One of the prettiest and most popular places to cool off on your central Texas trip, Jacob’s Well is deceptively deep, bubbling up from a cave system that stretches over 100 feet underground. Make a reservation to swim and jump from the cliffs above if you’re brave enough. It’s one of our top Texas destinations and a fun place to spend a late afternoon.

For dinner, we headed on to Jester King Brewery in Dripping Springs. Along with the wild fermented ales, Jester King has a wide selection of pizzas and a few other bites. Enjoying the warm evening while listening to the live music under the stars was the perfect way to cap off our day.

There are some fun places to stay in the area including the beautiful Camp Lucy .

We started out day three of our Texas getaway in the cute Historic District with breakfast at Rolling in Thyme and Dough. It’s one of our favorite spots in Dripping Springs . Their breakfast croissant was the ideal fuel for our day, and the weather was nice enough for us to sit out on the patio and soak up a few morning rays.

After breakfast, we wandered the collection of boutiques along Mercer Street and Old Fitzhugh Road. Between Vintage Soul TX and Starrs on Mercer, you can find just about any kind of vintage-inspired decor or unique clothing item you’re in the market for.

By early afternoon, it was time to head about 10 minutes out of the center of town to Treaty Oak Distillery. We’ve visited a number of local distilleries in Texas , and Treaty Oak is one always love visiting.

The idea that Treaty Oak is just a distillery is a little bit misleading. Yes, they make some wonderful whiskeys and gins, and their craft cocktails are killer, but Treaty Oak is not just a place for spirits—the area they lovingly call “the ranch” is a great place to hang out and it’s completely family-friendly, too.

In addition to the drinks, there are picnic tables and lawn games, and there’s frequently live music. You can tour the distillery and chat with the bartenders. When you need something to sop up the drinks, there’s an on-site restaurant offering everything from poached pear salad to shrimp and grits. And like any good Texas joint, there is also a food truck serving BBQ. Treaty Oak is a great place to enjoy life for a few hours .

One of the realities of a trip to Texas is that it’s warm more often than not. Sometimes, it’s actually blazing hot. So as much as we loved lazing around at Treaty Oak, we needed to cool off. It was time to head to another one of the most famous swimming holes around, Hamilton Pool.

The pretty landscape and cool waters of Hamilton Pool draw people from all over central Texas and beyond because it’s a fabulous place to swim, but it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Texas. The pool itself is the result of the collapse of an underground river, so it has a unique formation with a waterfall and a natural cave-like structure, so you can get away from the sun, if you choose. There’s even a tiny beach.

We wandered down the trail (it’s about a quarter-mile uneven hike) to the swimming hole and plunged in. The water, which comes from a natural spring, is what some would call refreshing and other might deem a bit on the cold side. Either way, it’s a welcome break from the heat. Because the parks system limits the number of people at any one time, the pool never feels overrun or crowded. It’s a little corner of heaven.

We hadn’t had enough BBQ yet, so we headed to the famous Salt Lick in nearby Driftwood for dinner. We first visited several years ago after seeing the restaurant featured on Top Chef , and we return whenever we can. It helps that there are now few locations, including in the Dallas and Austin airports, in case you can’t make it to Driftwood.

The Salt Lick is one of the older barbecue joints in Texas and a very popular road trip stop. For more than 50 years, they have been slow cooking brisket, pulled pork, and other meats, and winning just about every award there is.

We always go for the pulled pork and a bit of sausage—with pickles and onions, of course. Since it’s the South, there’s always sweet tea and soda, or you can get wine from Salt Lick Cellars next door. We passed on the booze this time because we had one more destination on our list for the day.

Back in Dripping Springs, we decided to end the night at the Sidecar Tasting Room. The cozy house serves wines from Bell Springs Winery along with a limited menu, and we loved trying all their Mediterranean varietals. A glass of Tempranillo and a little guitar finished out our day in Dripping Springs.

Less than a half-hour away is Pedernales Falls State Park. This picturesque park is based around the Pedernales River whose rushing waters have carved out the bumps and crags of its ancient limestone bed over millions of years.

At over 5200 acres, the park offers an opportunity for a wide variety of outdoor activities. There are waterfalls, hiking trails, places for mountain biking, and lots of chances for tubing, kayaking, and swimming. It’s one of the best places to go on a road trip in Texas if you love nature.

It was a warm day, and we had a lot of fun ahead of us, so we decided to do a short hiking trail. Luckily, there’s a lot of flexibility at the park, and many of the sites are within easy walking distance of a parking lot. We headed straight for the Pedernales Falls Overlook. Water levels can change pretty quickly here, so the area looks different at different times of the year. It was low during our visit, so it was fun to walk out in the riverbed and see the mini-falls as the elevation changed.

Back in the car, we were off to Hye.

Hye is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it sort of place on Highway 290 that cuts through Central Texas. Hye Market is the best place to stop for lunch. Next to the town’s historic post office that dates from 1886, you can have all kind of delicious sandwiches, salads, and cheese plates featuring Texas products. Our choice was the BLT with tomato marinated in salt, rosemary, and cracked black pepper.

A few miles off the road from the Hye Market is one of the best distilleries in Texas, Garrison Brothers Distillery . The first legal whiskey distillery in Texas, Garrison Brothers makes only grain-to-glass bourbon. We booked in advance to get a spot on one of the 20 tours they offer each week.

The Garrison Brothers tour walked us through the whole process of making their Texas whiskey from the grain they grow themselves to aging the spirits in the barns out back. Sampling the bourbons is the best part, and you can hang out in their rocking chairs and relax as long as you want.

Just 15 minutes west in Stonewall, our next stop was the LBJ State Park and Historical Site . The park is home to several different sites that were significant in the life of Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th president of the United States. LBJ was born a few minutes away in Johnson City (you can backtrack from Hye to tour his childhood home) but spent his later years on the ranch in Stonewall.

At the park, we visited the one-room schoolhouse where LBJ learned to read and viewed the Johnson family cemetery where the President and Lady Bird are buried. You can see a replica of his birthplace, view his plane known as Air Force One-Half, and visit the descendants of the longhorn herd he started here (beware, these guys can be fierce).

The biggest attraction at the park is the Texas White House where Johnson spent about one-quarter of his presidency—he was, apparently, much more comfortable in this white farm house than on Pennsylvania Avenue. The house looks much as it did when the President lived there, so we were immediately transported back to the 1960s, complete with wood paneling and loud floral upholstery. Walking through the house and seeing how the Johnsons lived offered a fascinating window into their lives. (Note: as of October 2022, the Texas White House remains temporarily closed for repairs, but there are many other things to see.)

For dinner, we were off to Fredericksburg, our favorite place in the Hill Country. There are lots of restaurants to choose from ranging from fine dining to self-serve. We opted for Otto’s German Bistro , which puts a modern spin on the traditional food of Fredericksburg’s German settlers. Their flammkuchen and spaetzle are fabulous, and they have an extensive selection of German and Austrian wines.

Fredericksburg, one of the best getaways in Texas, is known for its B&Bs, and we’ve tried a fabulous selection of them over the years. Consider Hoffman Haus , a luxury B&B just of Main Street in town, comfortable cabins at the Vintage Trail Cottages , or one of the other cute places to stay in town.

After breakfast at our B&B, we were off for a bit of browsing on Main Street, mostly because it seemed a little too early to start drinking.

Main Street in Fredericksburg has a little bit of everything. There is every kind of leather good under the sun, lots of clothes, and plenty of housewares and decorations emblazoned with their love of Texas, wine, and general sass. There are also lots of food items, so if you’ve ever wanted candy, a dip, or anything spicy, you’ll find it here. Check out Texas original James Avery for jewelry or the Fredericksburg General Store for literally anything.

There are also plenty of wine tasting rooms on Main Street, so if you want to get started trying the famous Hill Country wines, stop in for a sip. Grape Creek’s wines are great, and Texas Wine Cellars has a little bit of everything from different wineries.

After shopping for a little while and checking out some of the town’s historic buildings (the Vereins Kirche Museum tells the story of Fredericksburg’s German settlers), we stopped for lunch at Burger Burger. The burgers are fabulous and bigger than your head, and if you don’t care for beef, they and can be substituted for vegetarian or chicken options. Adding one of their milkshakes to your order may well leave you in a food comma.

Full from lunch, we decided to do a bit of walking. Texas is known for its gorgeous wildflowers, and Wildseed Farms collects many of them in one lovely place, so it’s a great location for enjoying the outdoors close to Fredericksburg.

In the spring, summer, and fall, the fields at Wildseed Farms teem with flowers of every shade from bright bluebonnets to brilliant red standing cyprus. Laced among the fields are walking trails, butterfly gardens, and an endless number of opportunities for taking photos. We’re a bit obsessed with colors, so we loved walking around the beautiful grounds.

Having burned off a bit of lunch, we were ready for one of the best indulgences in the Fredericksburg area—sampling local wines. Texas may not seem like the most obvious place for wine, but the climate lets the same grapes thrive here that do well in the Mediterranean, so there are lots of Cabernet Sauvignons, Albarinos, Merlots, Viogniers, and more to choose from.

There are dozens of wineries in the Fredericksburg area , many with sprawling grounds, beautiful cellars, and on-site restaurants (or weekend food trucks). On this trip, we opted to revisit two popular ones—Pedernales Cellars and Hilmy Cellars.

With gorgeous views of the Hill Country, Pedernales Cellars is known for its Spanish and Rhone-style wines and its commitment to using Texas grapes. Their GSM—a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre—is a wonderful choice.

Hilmy Cellars is unique among the Fredericksburg wineries because it’s biodynamic. We found sheep, guinea fowl, goats, and others doing their part to keep the award-winning winery functioning. Their Viognier and Sangiovese were among our favorites.

After a quick dinner at Fredericksburg Brewing Company, we headed out to Luckenbach. This one-name bar and performance venue in a three-person town was made famous by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings in the 1970s. Today, Luckenbach, Texas , welcomes musicians just about every day of the year for formal concerts and informal picking circles.

Luckenbach has a vibe all its own, is one of the most unique places to visit in the Hill Country and one of the top Texas roadside attractions . Decked out with a million stickers, flyers, and unusual memorabilia, it is informal homey. Everyone is there to have fun, and you don’t have to be a country fan to enjoy the music. We just grabbed a beer and a seat and joined in with the toe tapping.

After a couple of hours of music at Luckenbach, it was time to head back to our B&B to pack up and get ready to fly out of Austin the next afternoon. In truth, Fredericksburg is worth a full weekend if your schedule allows. There’s never enough time to explore Texas.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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New road trip on my list!!

Saturday 23rd of February 2019

Yes, I agree with you. Blue Bell Ice Cream is life - just like BBQ. Been traveling for 2 years but I can't still find ice cream that as delicious as Blue Bell. This article takes me back to my childhood days. Take me back to Texas.

7 Perfect Texas Road Trips

By: Author texasonly

Looking for Texas road trips ?

Then you are in the right place!

Texas is a huge state that is best discovered by hitting the open road.

We were born and raised in the great state of Texas, and still call it home.

This means you are in good hands while exploring this list of road trips in Texas .

Famous for delicious Texas barbecue, cowboy culture, and true southern hospitality, Texas will not disappoint!

Texas road trips allow you the opportunity to explore everything that the Lone Star State has to offer.

From big cities to small towns, national parks, state parks, and everything in between, inspiring Texas quotes and captions for years!

Here are some of the best road trips in Texas for you to explore!

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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Join the texas travel community and get a free texas bucket list checklist, 1. texas road trip to the hill country.

Towns Include:

Fredericksburg

San antonio.

The beautiful Texas Hill Country draws visitors from all over the world.

People come to this part of Texas to see the beautiful rolling Texas hills and to explore the Texas wine country .

Some of our favorite Texas small towns are in this area also!

Begin your trip in the Texas State Capitol, Austin .

Here you can explore the state capitol building, eat some great food , and enjoy the live music scene that Austin is so famous for.

Austin is full of outdoor activities as well. Hike Mount Bonnell to get a great view of the area or paddle your day away on Lady Bird Johnson Lake, one of the lakes in Austin .

Of course, visitors flock to Austin’s Congress Street Bridge to see the bat colony go out for their nightly feeding.

If you drive about 45 minutes southwest of Austin, you will find the artsy community of Wimberley, Texas .

Wimberley is home to the spring-fed Jacob’s Well and the Blue Hole Regional Park , both popular Texas swimming holes.

You can also visit the popular Hamilton Pool swimming hole to swim and see one of the waterfalls in Texas as well.

During your time in the Texas small town of Wimberley, you can visit the many wineries and distilleries that call this part of the Texas Hill Country home.

Our next stop is Fredericksburg , a German settlement that today is one of the premier wine regions in Texas.

While here you will definitely want to do a wine tasting (or two) at the best wineries in Fredericksburg .

You should also stay in one of the charming family-owned bed and breakfast hotels in Fredericksburg.

This Texas road trip is great anytime, but it is especially beautiful in the spring when all of the Texas wildflowers are in bloom.

If you are visiting in spring, add the gorgeous Willow City Loop to your Texas Hill Country itinerary.

If you have extra time in Fredericksburg, consider taking a day trip to Marble Falls .

Marble Falls is a great little lakeside town containing fun, boutique shops, and an epic pie shop, Bluebonnet Cafe.

Of course, it is also a great area to see all of the Texas bluebonnets if you are visiting during the spring months.

If you have time, you can also check out nearby Johnson City, TX . Johnson City is full of history and well worth exploring!

Our final stop on this epic Texas road trip is San Antonio.

The most popular attraction in San Antonio is the San Antonio River Walk.

The River Walk is a great place to grab a great meal, drink a margarita, and do some serious people-watching.

Of course, the River Walk isn’t the only thing to do in San Antonio.

Be sure to visit the San Antonio Mission Trail which includes the famous Alamo.

San Antonio also has a great botanic garden, fabulous parks, great shopping, and there are loads of beaches and state parks near San Antonio !

2. Route 66 Road Trip in Texas

Attractions on the road trip:

• Cadillac Ranch

Amarillo and Route 66

The historic Route 66 cuts through a portion of the Texas panhandle from Oklahoma to New Mexico.

If you make the entire Texas portion of the trip, it is only 178 miles!

Granted, there aren’t a lot of towns on this Texas road trip, it is definitely one that should be on your bucket list.

Many people who stop in Amarillo while on a road trip make their way to the Big Texan Steak Ranch to try out the 72 oz steak challenge.

If you can eat the steak and all of the side items within the allotted time, your meal is free and you get your picture on the wall.

Of course, along the way, you will want to visit the popular roadside attraction, Cadillac Ranch.

This 1974 art exhibition is comprised of 10 cars (Cadillacs) stuck nose down in the desert landscape.

Other stops to consider along Route 66 include Dot’s Mini-Museum and the Vega motel near the border with New Mexico, Midpoint Café, a 1950s dining establishment.

3. Road Trips in Texas to the Gulf Coast

Cities Include:

Corpus Christi

South padre island.

A Texas road trip along the Gulf of Mexico will have you traveling to some of the best cities on the Texas coast.

It’s hard to believe that Texas has over 3,000 miles of coastline, now that makes for an epic road trip for sure!

The first stop on this road trip is in the fun seaside town of Galveston, Texas.

Galveston has played a big role in Texas history as it was once one of the wealthiest towns in the United States thanks to the bustling port.

Galveston is a great city to enjoy some time on the best beaches in Texas , do some bird watching, or play on the amusement park rides of the Historic Pleasure Pier.

After leaving Galveston, hit the road for the next stop on this Texas road trip, Corpus Christi.

While in Corpus Christi , visit the Texas State Aquarium and take a tour of the USS Lexington.

Our final stop on this Texas road trip is South Padre Island.

South Padre Island is popular for the epic spring break parties that happen here each spring, but there is more to South Padre Island than that.

Along the way, explore the island’s 113 miles of Texas coastline before heading into town to discover what Padre Island has to offer.

You can enjoy Schlitterbahn Water Park or get your adrenaline fix at Gravity Park.

Of course, taking a fishing or sailing charter from Padre is always a good idea also.

Many are offered year-round thanks to the tropical climate found here.

4. West Texas Road Trip

This road trip includes:

The vast land that is found in west Texas will help visitors to understand why we always say ‘everything is bigger in Texas.’

The sprawling landscape of this area is something that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

You definitely don’t want to miss it!

Road trips in Texas that include Big Bend should also include stops in Marfa and Terlingua along the way.

The small town of Marfa will have you trying to decide if the Marfa lights are one of the natural wonders of the area or are from aliens.

It will also have you exploring Texas history museums and eating some really great food.

Terlingua and Big Bend

Terlingua is an eccentric Texas town that is known as a Texas ghost town.

This tiny town is home to some quirky places to stay, some interesting roadside attractions, and a population of 50 people!

This is one of the best Texas road trips for outdoor lovers as it ends up in Big Bend National Park.

Big Bend National Park encompasses over 1,200 acres of land just waiting to be explored.

Take note though, this national park is known for its harsh environment, so be careful out there!

While in the area, don’t forget to visit Big Bend Ranch State Park also.

The largest state park in Texas, Big Bend Ranch has incredible views of the night sky, numerous hiking trails, and some incredible canyon views.

Another great small town in this area is Alpine, Texas .

5. El Paso Loop Road Trip

• Guadalupe Mountains State Park

The El Paso Loop road trip is probably one of those road trips that many people don’t really know about, but I am here to tell you it should be on your Lone Star State road trip list for sure.

This road trip will have you exploring the remote area of far west Texas, taking in some amazing views, and exploring the west Texas landscape.

Start out exploring Franklin Mountain State Park before visiting the attractions in town like the El Paso Museum of Art.

There are some great restaurants and lots of pretty murals around El Paso also.

You can leave the city and visit the Hueco Tanks State Park and see the unusual granite features that draw loads of rock climbers to this area.

Guadalupe Mountain State Park

About 1.5 hours from the Hueco Tanks State Park is the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, home to the world’s largest fossil reef!

The small town of Fort Davis is on this Texas road trip also.

Here you can explore Davis Mountain State Park, the Fort Davis Historic Site, and the historic downtown area.

6. Piney Woods of East Texas Road Trip

Cities include:

A road trip through the Piney Wood of East Texas is one of the best Texas road trips for nature lovers.

Drive a couple of hours east of Dallas -Fort Worth, and you will feel like you are in a totally different area of Texas.

The first stop here is the small town of Canton, Texas.

This little town is known for the world’s largest flea market that takes place here the first Monday weekend every month.

When they say the world’s largest flea market, they mean it.

The population of the town skyrockets during these weekends!

After exploring Canton, head to Tyler, Texas. Tyler has so many great restaurants, great shopping, and a fabulous lake.

They are also famous for their Tyler roses and are home to the largest rose garden in the United States.

Your final stop on the Piney Woods road trip is Longview.

Longview is a great place to visit in the fall as when the fall foliage takes over and covers this area.

Longview is also home to some great museums, restaurants, and cute shops.

This is also one of the best road trips for festival lovers as Longview is known to host several festivals throughout the year.

You can also do the Piney Woods Wine trail while in this area.

This wine trail has you visiting some of the great Texas wineries that call this region of Texas home.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the wineries in East Texas !

7. International Cities of Texas Road Trip

Castroville.

You don’t have to leave Texas to feel like you have traveled internationally thanks to the road trips in Texas that include the cities formed by international immigrants.

These towns are evidence of the diversity and culture of the people of Texas.

About 1.5 hours southwest of Fort Worth , you will find the small central Texas town of Dublin.

Dublin is a small Texas city that is big on personality and fully embraces its Irish culture.

While visiting, you can make your own soda at Dublin Bottling Works before you eat one of their delicious hamburgers at Doc’s Soda Shop which is located on-site.

Be sure to take your picture with the 4 leaf clover sign and the other murals you will find around town. You can also shop for Irish souvenirs at Things Celtic.

This fun store has everything from kilts to keychains.

While in Dublin, you have to visit Veldhuizen Cheese and taste some of the delicious homemade cheeses that are made.

The town of West is a small city about on hour south of Dallas .

West is best known for their amazing kolaches. That is thanks to the Czech heritage that shaped this town.

The best time to experience all things Czech is during their annual Westfest.

Westfest celebrates all things Czech!

Visitors to West during this festival get to enjoy dancing the polka to a live band, shop the many great vendors, and eat their heart’s fill of Czech food!

Immersing yourself in the German heritage of Fredericksburg is easy.

The German influence is everywhere in this city.

Start out by visiting Fredericksburg’s Pioneer Museum to see how the first German settlers lived. Here you can tour homes and see the artifacts from this era.

While here you can also drink some German beer and wine and eat some delicious German food.

A visit to Castroville, Texas will have you thinking you have been transported to a small town in the French countryside.

The half-timbered Steinbach Haus is the perfect place to start your journey.

This house was built in the early 1600s and was imported to Castroville!

This isn’t the only house though, there are examples of Alsatian architecture all over town.

Visit the boutique shops in town to find the perfect ‘French’ souvenir before grabbing a tasty treat from Haby’s Alsatian Bakery.

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About The Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel.  Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Jen | Local Love & Wanderlust

Saturday 8th of July 2023

Good reference, my inlaws moved to Texas - if we ever visit them this will come in handy.

Monday 10th of July 2023

Thanks for checking it out, Jen!

A Capone Connection

I'm going to be in San Antonio in September so this is super helpful. Thanks so much! I love road trips.

I'm so glad to hear this! I hope you have fun!

Saturday 17th of June 2023

These are so great! I went to Austin for a wedding a few years ago and had an awsome time checking out the music scene. I would love to spend more time there and do some Texas road tripping!

Sunday 18th of June 2023

Yes, Austin has an awesome music scent. Texas is a great place to road trip option. The sheer size means there are so many fun itineraries you can create!

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Wednesday 20th of July 2022

[…] Depending on the region, Texas is a vast state with diverse landscapes and climates. This means you can have a different experience in our state by driving just a few hours in any direction. That means Texas is great for road trips. […]

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Monday 10th of January 2022

[…] then Big Bend National Park should definitely be on your list. Big Bend is one of the perfect Texas road trips that allow you to escape and become one with […]

17 Fun Weekend Getaways from Austin (Road Trip Ideas!)

As absolutely fantastic of a city as Austin is, everyone needs a change of scenery once in a while! These weekend getaways from Austin, including everything from national parks to beach towns, are the perfect way to enjoy a change of pace.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a quick family trip, a vacation with friends, or even a solo adventure, one of these road trips from Austin is no doubt right for you.

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How We Structured Austin Weekend Getaways Guide

We intentionally structured this guide to the best weekend getaways from Austin to cover destinations between roughly 3 and 8 hours from the city (with a couple of small exceptions).

While there are dozens of destinations closer to Austin that could certainly justify a fantastic weekend escape, including Fredericksburg, Wimberley, Waco, and San Antonio, we have already covered those in our Austin day trips guide , so chose not to include them here.

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Austin

Garner state park.

Encompassing more than 1700 acres of beautiful Texas Hill Country, nearly 3 miles of the stunning Frio River, and roughly 16 miles worth of trails, Garner State Park is absolutely one of the best weekend getaways from Austin!

Whether you’d like to hike, camp, float the river, or simply enjoy a picnic and a swim, Garner State Park’s unforgettable beauty will be on full display.

Driving Distance From Austin

Big Bend National Park (+ Beyond)

Home to some of the most stunning views in Texas, Big Bend National Park is a fantastic place to hike and explore–don’t miss the incredible Santa Elena Canyon or the Lost Mine Trail while you’re there!

In addition to the national park, the immediate area surrounding the park has plenty more to see, including Big Bend Ranch State Park and the ghost town of Terlingua. 

If you’d like to go a bit out of your way, this road trip from Austin can also hit up the ultimate Instagram darling of West Texas–the small town of Marfa.

7 hours, 30 minutes.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Located just half an hour from Amarillo , not far from Route 66, sits the second-biggest canyon in the USA and one of the best weekend trips from Austin: Palo Duro Canyon!

There are plenty of hikes and overlooks to choose from, but be sure to prioritize hiking to the lighthouse formation! The trail is scorching and can be a bit grueling, especially during the final ascent, but the payoff is absolutely worth it.

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Set just south of the New Mexico border in West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the four highest peaks in Texas and some incredible hiking trails.

Depending on how long you plan on exploring, you could extend your Austin road trip into New Mexico, as well: just over the border sits Carlsbad Caverns National Park, which features more than 100 caves and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Caverns of Sonora

The founder of the National Speleological Association, Bill Stephenson, once said this about the Caverns of Sonora: “This is the most indescribably beautiful cave in the world, its beauty cannot be exaggerated, not even by a Texan.”

With a sales pitch like that, it’s not hard to see why the Caverns of Sonora are among the most famous caverns in Texas!

Even though they don’t take long to tour, they’re a bit far from the capital for a practical day trip–but they are among the best overnight trips from Austin!

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Caddo Lake State Park

While Texas may be classically characterized as a place of desert landscapes and cowboys, at Caddo Lake State Park, you’ll find a very different side of the Lone Star State–one dotted with giant cypress trees that drip Spanish moss and leisurely canoe rides.

This isn’t a lake for swimming–the alligators who live in the lake are best avoided–but it is utterly beautiful, and a fantastic road trip from Austin for those looking to leave city vibes behind entirely.

5 hours, 15 minutes.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

Lost Maples State Park makes for a beautiful weekend getaway from Austin year-round, but never more so than during the fall, when the park becomes one of the best places to enjoy fall foliage in Texas!

The foliage is typically best from late October through mid-November and lasts 3-4 weeks, but the season does vary by year, so if you have your heart set on catching the foliage at its best, be sure to check its status before heading out.

2 hours, 45 minutes.

Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Austin

As the largest city in Texas, the fourth-largest city in the USA, and one of the most diverse cities in the country, it’s safe to say that Houston is packed with enough fun things to do to fill more than one weekend trip from Austin!

Be sure to check out the Space Center Houston and NASA–the most famous of all the attractions in Houston–as well as sample some of Houston’s other top museums and parks.

Head to Kemah Boardwalk for a charming slice of Americana, and be sure to enjoy the food scene: Houston’s diversity is perhaps best displayed through its enormous collection of fantastic restaurants featuring cuisines from across the world.

New Orleans

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

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

During your weekend in NOLA , consider visiting the Garden District, taking a ghost tour, visiting the nearby bayou, taking a steamboat cruise, and of course, eating plenty of excellent food, from po’ boys to beignets, during the course of your weekend getaway.

Known for big hair, big (oil) money, and big buildings, Dallas is a quintessentially Texan city–and also one of the fastest-growing cities in the USA, with an excellent food scene and plethora of things to do.

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

On a lighter note, though, Dallas offers far more than morbid history: with phenomenal shopping, excellent skyline views at Reunion Tower, walkable neighborhoods like the Bishop Arts District, and great gardens and museums (the Dallas Arboretum is stunning), you’ll find plenty of fun things to do during a weekend in Dallas.

Best Beach Road Trips from Austin

South padre island.

The only tropical island in Texas is, hands down, one of the best road trips from Austin. 

Here, you’ll find 34 miles of sandy beaches with calm, beautiful water, dolphins to watch, recovering sea turtles to visit, the opportunity to take a horseback ride on the beach, and some stupendous sunrises.

South Padre Island is one of the most popular beaches in Texas for good reason, and though it is known for its raucous Spring Break parties during March, outside of those weeks, the island is a far more laid-back escape.

5 hours, 30 minutes.

One of the most popular weekend getaways from Austin, but even more so from Houston, Galveston is home to some of Texas’ best-known beaches!

With miles of coastline, a small, picturesque theme park on the Galveston Island Pier, the East End Historic District that features beautiful Victorian-era homes, and tons of family-friendly attractions and parks, Galveston is a favorite for families looking for a quick beach trip in Texas.

Corpus Christi

As one of the closest beaches to Austin, Corpus Christi is popular with visitors looking to enjoy the beach for a bit while still retaining access to some small tastes of city life, like the beautiful Art Museum of South Texas and the interesting USS Lexington, a WWII-era aircraft carrier turned museum.

Mustang Island

Just a bit further from Austin than Corpus Christi–really, so close that you can conceivably visit both places in one trip if you’d like to–sits Mustang Island, a barrier island that is a popular Austin road trip for those looking for beach towns a bit quieter than Corpus Christi.

Port Aransas, the largest town on the island, has a population of merely 4,000, making Mustang Island a laid-back retreat for those looking to fish, go boating, or simply take a swim.

Best Small Town Weekend Trips from Austin

Of all of the weekend getaways from Austin outlined here, this one is the closest to the city–but the best thing to do in Bandera definitely justifies more than a day trip!

As the self-proclaimed Cowboy Capital of the World, Bandera is known for its horseback riding, outdoor activities, and dude ranches!

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at staying on a dude ranch, a weekend in Bandera may be the perfect road trip for you.

As the home of the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail, Ennis (located about 45 minutes from Dallas) is the ultimate road trip from Austin when the flowers are blooming each spring.

Even outside of bluebonnet season, though, Ennis still has plenty of charms that make it worth visiting, including Bardwell Lake, a drive-in movie theater, and historic downtown.

Drive into Dublin, and you’ll be greeted with a gigantic sign in the shape of a 4-leaf clover that reads “Welcome to Dublin, Texas”, making it immediately obvious that Dublin considers it the Irish capital of Texas!

Home of Dublin Bottling Works, which bottled the original Dr. Pepper, Dublin features a Dr. Pepper museum, a bottling tour, beautiful shops and restaurants, and a historic downtown.

Without a doubt, Dublin is one of the best weekend getaways from Austin!

Map of the Best Weekend Getaways from Austin

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9 Most Scenic Road Trips to Take in Texas

A road trip is fun, but a road trip in Texas is a bucket-list-worthy experience. From the beaches of the Gulf Coast to the historic sites of the Old West in Marfa, no two destinations in the Lone Star State are alike. It’s a place of diversity, intrigue, and always warm hospitality. Experience Texan hospitality for yourself on a scenic and memorable road trip through the state with one of these nine itineraries. 

El Paso to Big Bend National Park

Experience the true Old West of the United States on this epic road trip through Far West Texas. The route from El Paso to Big Bend National Park is approximately 292 miles and takes around 4.5 hours when driving straight through, but there are plenty of exciting stops along the way. The small town of Marfa is a hub for artists; it sits about 1.5 hours outside of Big Bend National Park and is worth spending a night or two exploring along this route. The Chinati Foundation is a must-visit attraction in this art town because it's an art museum founded by artist Donald Judd. The vast property of the museum houses various contemporary art exhibits, including Robert Irwin's "untitled (dawn to dusk)" installation.

For dinner, dining at Margaret’s provides a small-town experience on the quaint and visually stunning main street of Marfa. Plan for another stop in Marathon, where the historic Gage Hotel is located. Star gazing here in the Chihuahuan Desert is the perfect way to spend a night before continuing to the dramatic desert landscapes of Big Bend National Park to go hiking.

Austin to San Antonio

Austin to San Antonio is a much shorter, easier Texas road trip that connects two unique, vibrant cities. It’s a leisurely drive along the I-35, spanning approximately 80 miles. For most people, the drive takes only 1.5 hours, but the journey can (and should) take much longer when making the most of the drive. Along the drive, you'll get a glimpse of the beautiful natural scenery of Canyon Lake, but it's worthwhile to pull off the highway a few times to make stops in the small towns and unique diners just off the Interstate.

Stop in the towns of San Marcos and New Braunfels for swimming or floating in the rivers. In San Marcos, float in inner tubes down the San Marcos River (perfect during the summer heat) with a rental from Lions Club Tube Rental or Texas State Tubes. In New Braunfels, there is a meeting of two rivers, The Comal River and Guadalupe River to view, photograph, or float in.

Route 66 and the Texas Panhandle

The Texas Panhandle refers to the 26 northernmost counties in the Lone Star State. The famous Route 66  spans a whopping 177 miles through the Texas Panhandle, from the border with Oklahoma all the way to New Mexico. Travelers can start in Texola in the far east or begin the venture west from any of the small towns along the route, such as Adrian, depending on which Texas city you fly into.

Along Route 66 in the Panhandle, must-visit towns to stop in are Shamrock, McLean, Groom, Conway, and Amarillo. The Texas Panhandle offers completely different scenery to admire from other areas of the state. Its vast, grassy plains are awe-inspiring, and travelers can also enjoy a   visit to Palo Duro Canyon State Park on this route.

Dallas-Fort Worth to Waco

Dallas Fort Worth is part of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan area, which encompasses 11 counties in Texas. This massive urban center is the perfect place to begin a scenic Texas road trip since so many international flights have direct routes to DFW. From the airport, pick up the rental car; start the day at the Dallas Art Museum, and end in the Fort Worth Stockyards. Spend a night in Fort Worth before continuing towards Waco the next day for the scenic drive portion of the road trip.

Stop en route at the town of Granbury, which sits on the banks of one of the largest rivers in the state, the Brazos River. Continue on for a tour of Dinosaur Valley State Park, in Glen Rose, which is an expansive area of natural beauty. The park spans 1,524 acres and is home to rolling hills, wide open spaces, and vibrant blue waterways (as well as dinosaur-themed attractions). Admire the tranquility of the waterways and park before continuing to Waco.

San Antonio to South Padre Island

The drive from San Antonio to South Padre Island is rewarding but long – fortunately, there is a lot of beautiful scenery to admire along the way. The drive takes a little over 4.5 hours and spans 298 miles , taking travelers from the vibrant city of San Antonio south toward the coast. While in San Antonio, take time to enjoy the River Walk and the historic Missions.

Besides the beautiful Texas countryside and palm trees dotting the landscape, travelers won't want to miss a stop in Kingsville to see the historic beauty along this route. The old town charm and historic buildings, like the King Ranch Museum, coupled with the scenery of Dick Kleberg Park, make Kingsville a photo-worthy destination on this route. Finally, arrive in South Padre Island, where you’ll find one of the most picturesque beaches in Texas .

Austin to Houston

Austin to Houston is a Texas road trip that connects two of the state’s most interesting, bustling cities. While they are both well known, they couldn’t be more different. Austin is a quirky city known for its art scene and live music. Houston has a more urban, industrial appeal, being the base of space exploration, museums, and cultural centers. The route is 165 miles and takes around 2.5 hours, but with stops along the way, it could take a day or more.

This scenic cross-country road trip passes many impressive state parks and natural attractions, making it visually interesting the entire way. McKinney Falls State Park and Mount Bonnell Park in Austin are some of the most scenic places to explore at the beginning of the route, close to Austin. Then, there are two route options to Houston, either Interstate 10 or Route 290. Driving Interstate 10 from Austin to Houston offers scenic views of Bastrop State Park, and McKinney Roughs Nature Park. Opting for Route 290 means seeing Somerville Lake. On the way into Houston, check out Buffalo Bayou Park and Bear Creek Pioneers Park.

Texas Hill Country

For a peaceful, scenic road trip through Texas, the Texas Hill Country is the ideal choice. This part of the country is underrated and leaves behind the hustle and bustle of the big cities for rural retreats and wineries. There are many beautiful loops you can drive through the Texas Hill Country, but one of the most classic options is to start in Austin and take the US-290 W to Pedernales Falls State Park for hiking and waterfall views. The next day, continue to Fredericksburg (the city in the heart of the Texas Hill Country) via US-290 W through Lyndon B Johnson State Park and Historic Site.

Along this route, travelers will find some of the best wineries in the area. After a night at a picturesque Bed and Breakfast in Fredericksburg, take the US-87 south towards the quaint town of Boerne. Scenic attractions of the day include the Cascade Caverns and Cave Without a Name. Take a short, half-day trip to Guadalupe River State Park from Boerne for more beautiful nature in the Texas Hill Country. End the trip by driving from Boerne to the lovely town of Wimberley, passing by Canyon Lake. Finish up the loop by making your way back to Austin.

Galveston to Corpus Christi

The drive from Galveston to Corpus Christi is approximately 250 miles, which takes about 4 hours when driving straight through. The route provides a scenic tour of the Gulf Coast, with lots of charming beaches (like Matagorda Beach) and towns to stop at along the way. First, stop in the town of Jackson Lake for hiking on the Dow Wood Trails, offering beautiful forest scenery and tranquility. Drive past the lovely Brazoria Reservoir and enjoy a rest stop or a quick lunch in Brazoria.

The drive into Port Lavaca is gorgeous as you cross Lavaca Bay and approach Lighthouse Beach. Be sure to stop at Buc-ee's in Port Lavaca for the complete Texas road trip experience. Continue on to Rockport and Port Aransas, which are must-visits for swimming and beaches (Rockport Beach, Mustang Island State Park Beach, or Port Aransas Beach). Arrive in Corpus Christi and embrace the coastal views.

El Paso To Odessa via Fort Davis

The Far West of Texas isn't just about the artsy town of Marfa and Big Bend National Park. Another fantastic road trip route that begins in El Paso takes travelers on a long and winding road to two historic towns in this remote part of the Lone Star State. Start driving on the I-10 E from El Paso towards Van Horn (121 miles) and spend a night admiring the vast desert landscapes and Van Horn Mountains. Hotel El Capitan is a coveted spot to stay in town. Then, drive 89 miles via the I-10 E and TX 118-S towards historic Fort Davis. The most beautiful attractions along this route include the Davis Mountains Preserve, Dead Mans Canyon, and the views from the McDonald Observatory.

A road trip through Texas is the best way to get a sense of just how vast the Lone Star State is. The beauty of Texas doesn’t just lie in its vibrant urban centers or well-preserved national parks. The magic is in the wild, open, and untouched expanses of land that spread across the state, emphasizing just how much there is to discover.

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5 Awesome Road Trips in Texas To Take Now

If you know anything about Texas, you probably know that Texas is a huge state.  I mean, we are the largest state in the lower 48 United States, so it is no surprise when I tell you that  road trips in Texas  are popular.

It does not matter if you are looking for  small Texas towns , or lively big cities,  Texas road trips  will have you covered!  Besides, Texas consistently makes the list of  affordable family vacations , so why not plan a road trip here?

We have lived in Texas our entire lives and have seen so many of the great towns in Texas, so you are in the right place to start planning your road trip.  It really does not matter which direction you head in Texas, you are bound to find something of interest.

While I love the big Texas cities of San Antonio, Austin , and Dallas, there truly is so much more of Texas to explore.  We have small-town gems just waiting for you!

So, grab all of your  road trip essentials  and hit the road to see what really makes up the great state of Texas .

If you’re new to Texas, be sure and read these facts about Texas to learn more about the Lone Star State before your visit!

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

Road Trips in Texas

Texas hill country road trip-austin, wimberley, fredericksburg, san antonio.

The Texas Hill Country is one of the best road trips in our opinion.  The hill country is one of our favorites areas in the Lone Star State. There is just something about the rolling hills and wide-open spaces in the hill country that make it so beautiful, and thus making it one of our favorite road trips in Texas also!

Here you will find charming towns surrounded by rolling Texas hills amidst some of the most laid-back big cities in Texas.  Of course, we are just going to hit the highlights so feel free to adventure out and make this Texas road trip your own.

Start your road trip adventure by spending a couple of days in the Texas state capitol, Austin .  Now, do not be overwhelmed by the big city.  After figuring out  the best place to stay in Austin , go check out some of the local hangouts.  Austin is full of them!

Some examples of things to do in Austin include heading to South Congress for some funky, vintage shopping, or exploring the Texas State Capital before heading out for some awesome food and great nightlife that includes Austin’s ever-popular music scene .

There are so many  free things to do in Austin  that you could stay busy and barely spend a dime!

After leaving Austin, plan to spend a night in one of the  romantic getaways in Texas , Wimberley .  We love the artistic vibe of this small Texas Hill Country community.

Head out to Wimberley Valley Winer y to sip on some Texas-made wine or cool off in the famous spring-fed Jacob’s Well or the famous Blue Hole if you are visiting during the summer months.

Hamilton Pool in the town of Dripping Spring is another cool place to swim that isn’t too far away from Wimberley. Just be sure you make reservations for the Blue Hole, Hamilton Pool, and Jacob’s Well as they all get crowded!

There are so many  things to do in Wimberley , making it the perfect place to spend a night out of the big city.

Fredericksburg

The next stop worth of any list of road trips in Texas is one of our favorite Texas Hill County towns, Fredericksburg. Along the way, you may want to stop off in Johnson City and hike at Pedernales Fallas State Park or visit Lyndon B. Johnson State Park. There are also several wine tasting rooms to try while in Johnson City.

For this Texas road trip, we recommend spending two nights in Fredericksburg .  Take your time to explore all of the  things to do in Fredericksburg .

Outdoor lovers will enjoy hiking at Enchanted Rock State Park and watching the bats emerge at Old Tunnel State Park . (Note that you need reservations at Enchanted Rock State Park).

Wine lovers will definitely want to visit the  Fredericksburg, TX wineries . There are vineyards and tasting rooms all over town. If you are here in the spring, be sure to check out their wine and wildflower wine trail!

History lovers will definitely want to see the Fredericksburg Pioneer Museum and the Pacific War Museum.  Of course, you can always just grab a drink and stroll down Main Street browsing all of the great shops if you choose.

San Antonio

After a couple of days in Fredericksburg, we suggest that you enjoy the beautiful countryside as you head south to San Antonio.

Along the way, stop off in another of the charming Texas Hill Country towns, Boerne. Boerne is home to some great antique shops, charming boutique shops, and some awesome restaurants.

If you liked the small-town charm of Wimberley and Fredericksburg, then you might want to consider spending a night or two in Boerne also.  If not, just stop in for a day before going on to San Antonio.

The final stop of this Texas road trip is San Antonio.

We recommend spending about three nights in San Antonio .  This will allow you to get a good feel for the city without rushing.

Of course, your Texas road trip must include some good Mexican food , and our favorite in San Antonio is Nicha’s.  You can hit it up while exploring the San Antonio Mission Trail as it is right across from Mission San Jose.

While in San Antonio, be sure to spend some time on the world-famous San Antonio River Walk and go to the El Mercardo. The San Antonio River Walk is lined with restaurants and shops, making it a great place to spend the evening. You can also take a cruise on the San Antonio River to learn more about the history and culture of the area.

Another great area is San Antonio’s Pearl District. Here you will find great boutique shops, historic buildings, and one-of-a-kind restaurants that often offer live music.

Theme park enthusiasts will also want to visit San Antonio Fiesta Texas and Sea World San Antonio.

While you are in this area, consider checking out the tiny town of Gruene also. This fun town located just north of San Antonio has an awesome historic district, including a historic dance hall, wineries, cute shops, and several companies offering the opportunity to float the river to cool off from the hot Texas sun!

This area is also great in the spring to see all of the  bluebonnets in Texas !

North Central Texas Road Trip-Weatherford, Fort Worth, Dallas, Canton

This itinerary is one of the best road trips if you love a good mix of big cities and small towns. North Central Texas is packed with awesome big cities surrounded by fun small towns that will exhilarate you while allowing you to experience some true southern hospitality. This region of Texas is big on charm and huge on culinary delights, making it one of the top road trips.

Weatherford

Let’s begin our North Texas road trip in one of the towns surrounding the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Weatherford .  We recommend spending 1-2 nights in Weatherford.

Weatherford is a great Texas town boasting a pioneer spirit and many great small-town attractions.

Make sure to head out to Chandor Gardens to enjoy the 3.5-acre estate that is filled with beautiful gardens and ornate Chinese architecture.  Another great garden area to enjoy is Clark Gardens where you can explore the 143-acres of nature waiting for you here. You can also explore Lake Mineral Wells State Park which isn’t too far away if you’re a state park lover.

Roam the historic downtown area and shop and the cute and quirky vintage shops that line the streets here before heading to the perfect bed and breakfast.  (I personally love the peach wine that I find in Weatherford.)

Speaking of peaches, if you visit in July, you can enjoy the Parker County Peach Festival where you can taste all things peach!!  It is one of my favorite times of the year in Weatherford.

After exploring Weatherford for a couple of days, we are heading to Fort Worth on our road trip adventure.

Tourists flock to Fort Worth to enjoy the cowboy way of life.  While this is an awesome draw, there is so much more to this city than just the cowboy culture .

I would recommend spending 2-3 nights in Fort Worth so that you can enjoy all that it has to offer.

While here, definitely stay in the Sundance Square area of Fort Worth as you could easily see most of the attractions that we are going to talk about from this area. I

f you really want to explore the cowboy culture, then your first stop should be The Fort Worth Stockyards .  Here you can watch the daily cattle drive down Exchange Street before exploring Stockyard Station and all that it has to offer.

While in this area, you have to pull up your boots and do some Texas 2 stepping while listening to country music.  One of the most iconic places to do this is Billy Bob’s Texas , the World’s Biggest Honky Tonk.

While in Fort Worth, you will also want to check out the trendy West Seventh area of the city.  This area is full of great bars, restaurants, and shops for you to enjoy.

Of course, Fort Worth has a fabulous zoo, botanical garden, and a beautiful water gardens area in Downtown.

By the way, the Fort Worth Water Gardens is one of the many  free things to do in Dallas-Fort Worth .

Explore Fort Worth’s Sundance Square area as well.  Here you will find many great ideas for  date night in Fort Worth .

Enjoy a great dinner before catching a live theatre or comedy performance in this fun area of the city.

If you are a sports lover then you will want to head to the suburb of Arlington to enjoy some Texas football by seeing the world-famous Dallas Cowboys.   Baseball lovers will enjoy visiting the ballpark in this area as well to catch a game with The Texas Rangers .

While in Arlington, adrenaline junkies will love a visit to Six Flags Over Texas theme park .  Be sure and ride my two favorite rides, The Texas Giant and The Titan!

After leaving Fort Worth, our Texas road trip takes us to Dallas, Texas .  Now while Dallas and Fort Worth are geographical neighbors, most people from this area would agree that they feel like different worlds.  Dallas boasts excellent museums, great outdoor spaces, and awesome culinary adventures.

There are so many  things to do in Dallas  that you could easily spend a week or more exploring the area.  We recommend staying 2-3 nights for this portion of your Texas road trip.

Start out your time in Dallas by visiting the great Dallas Arts District .  Here you can explore awesome museums, catch some live theatre, and enjoy the great art scene that Dallas has to offer.

History lovers will want to explore the Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza to learn about President John F. Kennedy’s life and unfortunate assassination on this spot in Dallas, Texas.  You can also learn about the history of Dallas at the Old Red Museum before stepping back in time at Dallas Heritage Village.

If you find yourself in Dallas in the fall, then you have to head to Fair Park and enjoy all of the fried culinary delights at The Texas State Fair .  If the fair is not in town, you can still enjoy this area by catching a performance at Music Hall at Fair Park.

Spend some time exploring the Dallas Arboretum or the great views while walking the trails around White Rock Lake. State park lovers can head to Cedar Hill State Park and enjoy the trails just outside of the city.

Foodies will be delighted in Dallas as there is a great food and beverage scene here.  Take a food tour to be acclimated to the local cuisine before venturing out on your own.

After spending a few days exploring Dallas, our road trip takes us to another Texas town, Canton.  Canton is located about an hour east of Dallas and is a great little escape to end this portion of your Texas road trip.

We recommend visiting on the weekend before the first Monday of the month so that you can enjoy the  Canton, TX trade days .

Book one of the  great cabins in Canton, Texas  or these try out covered wagon camping to enjoy a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.  The trade days of Canton draw over 100,000 shoppers to this otherwise small Texas town.

Of course, there are other things to do in Canton as well.  You can shop the cute shops around the square, visit Canton Plaza Museum, play some golf, or check out Splash Kingdom Waterpark.

West Texas Road Trip-Marfa, Big Bend, and Terlingua

West of the cities of Wichita Falls and Abilene, you will find the arid, dry region of Texas loosely called “West Texas”.  This area has a unique geography as West Texas experiences much less rainfall than the rest of the state.

However, don’t let that dry, desert-like terrain keep you from visiting.  For you see, West Texas has a hidden gem that you must visit at some point in your life.

Our West Texas road trip will begin in Marfa, TX.

The small town of Marfa is most popular for the “Marfa Lights” .  People have reported seeing these mysterious light orbs in the desert for years.

According to witnesses, the orbs are about the size of a basketball and vary in color.  Supposedly, they appear, twinkle a little, split into two, and then quickly dart across the Texas sky.

Maybe you will get lucky and find yourself in Marfa during their annual Marfa Lights Festival.  If not, you can try to find the epic Texas Marfa Lights for yourself by heading about 9 miles out of town on Highway U.S. 90 toward Alpine to the Marfa Lights Viewing Area.

We recommend spending one night in Marfa to ensure that you have the opportunity to see all of the things to do in this West Texas town.  Don’t forget to check out the Prada store as well. ?

Big Bend National Park

After leaving Marfa, we are heading to the hidden gem that is Big Bend National Park .  I would recommend spending 3-5 nights in Big Bend National Park, depending on how much you love the outdoors.

You might be curious as to why I said Big Bend National Park was a “hidden gem”.  Well, it turns out that Big Bend is one of the least visited National Parks in the country, seeing only about 300,000 tourists a year.  When you compare that to the over 10 million visitors that the Great Smokey Mountain National Park receives, you can see why Big Bend National Park is a hidden gem.

The fact that Big Bend is so remote means that you need to keep a few things in mind.  There are fewer amenities here than around other National Parks, so come prepared.

Fill up on gas along the way, wear good shoes, and bring plenty of water and food for camping, which is always good advice when visiting the National Parks.

If you are a stargazer like Marty, you definitely want to bring your telescope, as Big Bend is one of 10 places in the world that is an International Dark Sky Park , meaning that you can see over 2,000 stars a night because of the lack of light pollution.

Also, remember, you are in a desert area, so watch out for snakes!

Of course, the best part of being in Big Bend is exploring the park itself.  Hike the Closed Canyon Trailhead for an easy walk down to the Rio Grande River.  Another popular hike is the trail to The Window, where the rocks perfectly frame the Texas desert. There are miles of hiking all around this huge state park, so just pick a trail!

Water lover can get their fix in Big Bend also.  You can hike to Cattail Falls to see a gorgeous waterfall or kayak in Santa Elena Canyon.  Santa Elena Canyon surrounds you with 1,500-foot walls, making this a spectacular activity.

Along the way, don’t forget to visit the Texas ghost town of Terlingua as well.  This former mining community that was centered around Chisos Mining Company is most popular for their yearly chili cook-off, but you can visit anytime.

This quirky town has taken full advantage of its fame by creating fun roadside attractions, including a pirate ship and a sand-locked submarine, just to name a few.

This is also a great place to try out some of the glamping in Texas !

Don’t forget to add the small West Texas town of Alpine to this itinerary also!

Texas Coast Road Trip-Galveston, Part Aransas, and South Padre Island

This is one of the best road trips if you love coastlines! Why? Well, the Lone Star State boasts over 3,000 miles of coastline.  That’s a lot of epic Texas coastline !  While we aren’t going to cover every mile on our coastal tour, we will show you some of the most popular places to visit on the Texas Coast.

The Texas Coastline is teeming with a diverse ecosystem and fun activities that you won’t find anywhere else in The Lone Star State.

We begin our coastline road trip in Galveston , Texas.  We recommend staying 2-3 nights in Galveston.

Galveston is an island city located not far from Houston , Texas.  Known for an epic Mardi Gras celebration, Galveston Island definitely knows how to have fun.  Of course, you can spend time on one of Galveston’s many wide-open beaches to enjoy all that the Gulf of Mexico has to offer.

Once you have your fill of the beach, get out and explore what Galveston has to offer.  Adults and kids will love visiting Moody Gardens .  Boasting indoor rain forests, awesome aquariums, zip lines, and awesome 3D theatre experiences, Moody Gardens can fill a whole day in your itinerary.

Of course, you won’t want to miss Pleasure Pier with its great amusement-style rides and games while near the beach.

Shoppers and history lovers will both like visiting the Strand area of Galveston to do some shopping, see the historic building, and tour the Railroad Museum.  There are also many great restaurants in Galveston.  A great way to discover great places to eat in Galveston is to take a food tour.

Port Aransas

After exploring Galveston, our Texas road trip takes us to the Port Aransas/Mustang Island area.  Port Aransas and Mustang Island make up 18-miles of Lone Star State shoreline.  Boasting year-round outdoor activities like parasailing, fishing, and birding, visitors flock to Port Aransas.  We recommend spending 2-3 nights in Port Aransas.

The art scene in this town is big.  Art lovers can enjoy the Port Aransas Community Theatre, a museum honoring the wild mustangs and anglers of the area.  If you would like to see boats being made, then Port Aransas has you covered there also, just head to Farley Boat Work.

There are numerous outdoor activities in Port Aransas.  Anglers will feel right at home here, as Port Aransas is the “Fishing Capital of Texas.”  You can fish in the local bays, channels, or cast a line right off of one of the docks into the ocean.  There are dolphin cruises and bird-watching expeditions originating in Port Aransas as well.

South Padre Island

Our final stop on our coastal road trip in Texas is South Padre Island .  One of the most popular beach destinations in the state, South Padre Island deserves 2-3 nights of your time as well.

Filled with miles of shopping, beaches, recreational activities, and great restaurants, Padre Island is the perfect escape.  Of course, the most popular activities center on the beach!

One of those activities is for sure surfing as Padre Island is one of the best destinations to learn surfing !

Ride horses along the beach, charter a fishing trip, go parasailing, or just spend the day lounging on the beach enjoying the Texas sunshine!

While here, be sure and check out the South Padre Island Sea Turtle Art Trail.  Local artists have been commissioned to build sea turtle art sculptures throughout the city to celebrate this beautiful aquatic creature and to bring awareness to the Island’s endangered sea turtles.  You can learn more about sea turtles by visiting Sea Turtle Inc. as well.

No matter what you are looking for in a beach town, South Padre Island has you covered.

East Texas Road Trip- Longview, Tyler, and Nacogdoches

The Piney Woods region of East Texas is one of the best road trips for nature lovers. East Texas is a sharp contrast to the desert terrain we introduced you to in West Texas.

East Texas will have you traveling through thousands of acres of green forests dotted with beautiful blue lakes.  It is also in this region that you can discover loads of Texas history.

Our first stop on this Texas road trip is the town of Longview.  One visit here and you will see exactly where its name originated from, the long view that you have across this area of Texas.  Sure, it is loaded with pine trees, but look closely and you will see so much more.

Visit in the fall to discover the gorgeous fall foliage that stretches for as far as the eyes can see (a great place to do some bird watching).  We recommend spending 1-2 nights in Longview.

Visitors here enjoy great golf courses, a historical museum, the Longview Museum of Art, and the great hospitality the town offers.  Longview also hosts multiple festivals throughout the year.  Be sure and check  their calendar of events  to see if there are any the interest you.

While you’re in the area, consider booking an East Texas Wine Tour and visit some of the awesome wineries in the area like Enoch’s Stomp !

Our next road trip stop leads us to Tyler, Texas.  Nicknamed “The Rose Capital of America”, Tyler has a long history of being associated with roses.

It is home to the largest rose garden in the United States that encompasses 14-acres and houses over 38,000 rose bushes!  If you find yourself here in October, you can enjoy the annual Texas Rose Festival as well.

Roses aren’t the only thing to do in Tyler though.  Tyler is also home to a drive-thru wildlife safari park, several wineries and breweries, and live event venues.

Outdoor lovers won’t want to miss the numerous lakes in and around this area to enjoy some outdoor recreation.

Nacogdoches

After spending a couple of days exploring Tyler, we are going to end our East Texas road trip in Nacogdoches.  Nacogdoches is a quintessential East Texas town that has something for everyone.

Nicknamed “The Garden Capital of Texas,” Nacogdoches is home to numerous beautiful gardens that you will find sprinkled throughout their city.

A true Texas delight is their crepe myrtle garden that is located on the Stephen F. Austin campus.  Another notable garden in this area is the Durst-Taylor Historic House and Gardens that surround the historic 1835 home.

Shopping is not in short supply in Nacogdoches either.  You will find numerous antique stores and specialty boutiques in this small Texas town.

Of course, there are also numerous restaurants, wineries, and breweries when you need to take a break from all of that shopping.

Visitors can also enjoy the many arts and entertainment venues that call Nacogdoches home.  I am sure a visit to Nacogdoches will have you returning again and again.

Final Thoughts on Texas Road Trips

Well, there you have it.  Some of our favorite places to hit the road and see in Texas.  Of course, this list is not all-encompassing.

There are so many great Texas trips that we could go on and on forever.  Planning a great Texas road trip is easy since there are so many awesome places to see in Texas along the way.  Pick a geographical region and take off!

Of course, if you are short on time, feel free to adapt these and make them a short weekend getaway!

We would love to hear what Texas towns you love.  Comment below and let us know.  Until then….SAFE TRAVELS, FRIENDS!

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About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through creative content creation and her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel and accompanying social media accounts.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Tuesday 4th of May 2021

I'm about to pack up my laptop and go work from Texas! There's so much to do!! All of these road trips just seem too fun. Thanks for sharing :)

thattexascouple

Thursday 6th of May 2021

Yes! Mission accomplished. Not only is there a lot to do here, but our economy is great and the people are super friendly! Come on down! :)

Wow! So many awesome options on places to go in Texas! But, I have to say vintage shopping and Weatherford historic downtown and the Sixth Floor Museum and Dealey Plaza would be my first stops.

Those are great choices. My family is actually from Weatherford and many still live there. It is an awesome place!

These places look just amazing. To be honest, I always thought that Texas is a mix of prairies and deserts - little did I know. I would love to visit that part of the US, my only disadvantage is that I'm not driving, which makes travelling the US a bit difficult.

Monday 3rd of May 2021

Loved driving in Texas! I lived in Houston a few months while at uni and the driving was so easy! Such straight roads! Such lovely people! The speed limit sucks, though. We drive to San Antonio, Dallas/Ft Worth, Austin easily on weekends, driving is wonderful in Texas. Also crossed the country on a Greyhound Bus, so we got an idea how huge the country is...

That sounds so fun. Yes, there are so many places to visit in Texas, and easily drivable. The state is just so big so don't try to cover it to end too quickly. LOL!

Rudy @ Backpack & Snorkel

Wednesday 30th of September 2020

You write: "If you know anything about Texas, you probably know that Texas is a huge state.". Many years ago I was on a business trip and was supposed to fly into San Antonio from Pennsylvania the day before. My first flight was rerouted due to bad weather and we landed in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina instead of Atlanta. After waiting on the tarmac for over an hour, the airline finally decided to cancel the flight to San Antonio and rebook passengers. Unfortunately, the last flight of the day to San Antonio had left while I was deplaning. Due to the bad weather, the only flight I could get was to Dallas, but this flight was delayed. Long story short, I arrived in Dallas after midnight, got one of the last rental cars and drove to San Antonio where I arrived at 5am and made my customer meeting at 9am after sleeping in the hotel for like 90min. On a map, Dallas and San Antonio look close...in real life, it is a 4-5h drive. So, yes, Texas is biiiiiiiiiiiiig!

Oh no. I hate this for you, but yes, Texas is HUGE!!

These 14 Unique Day Trips In Texas Belong On Your State Bucket List

Kristen Lawrence

Texas staff writer for Only in Your State, blogger for Power of Positivity, and freelance health, wellness, and travel writer. I spend any chance I get traveling, enjoying nature, trying out new recipes, and meditating. I love sharing smiles, good food, and great conversation :)

More by this Author

With Texas being the second largest state in the country and all, it sometimes seems overwhelming when you think about just how much there is to see here! Luckily, though, there are day trip destinations scattered throughout the Lone Star State that will satisfy any traveler’s need for adventure. From caves to theme parks to West Texas towns known for sightings of unexplained lights flashing in the night sky, these unique day trips in Texas belong on everyone’s bucket list.

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So, are you ready to gas up your car and hit the road yet? What are some more of your favorite day trips in Texas ? Let us know in the comments below!

Got a few extra days to spare? Extend that vacay and dive into some of the best Texas road trips across the state!

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

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Day trips in texas & related info.

What are the best little known attractions in Texas?

In a state as large as Texas, you can bet the Lone Star State is just overflowing with lesser-known attractions that are just waiting for you. For swimming and diving, pay a visit to the Blue Lagoon in Huntsville. The crystal blue waters will positively enchant you, and the tree-lined scenery is simply stunning. For a scenic hike, head town to Southeast Texas where you’ll find Claiborne West Park. Located in Vidor, this picturesque little park features hiking trails that will lead you through the towering trees and delightful scenery.

What are the most picturesque hiking trails in Texas?

From the well-known to the hidden gems, Texas has hundreds of miles of picturesque hiking trails that are ideal for your next hiking adventure. The 12-mile South Rim Trail at Big Bend has enchanted hikers for years, but if 12 miles is a little too long for you, you can always enjoy the beautiful Hill Country State Natural Area trail, Spring Branch Loop which clocks in at a much more reasonable 5.6 miles and features a gorgeous overlook of the Texas Hill Country valley.

What places in Texas should I see before I die?

Texas is full of beautiful natural scenery, historic landmarks, and picturesque towns that all should be added to your bucket list . For nature lovers, a visit to Big Bend is an absolute must. This National Park features a unique topography, protects countless species of plants and animals, and has some of the most stunning canyon and cliff views in Texas. For history buffs, visit Alamo, Texas where you can visit this historic destination and learn more about this famous battle.

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Explore Texas

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The essential guide to visiting Texas

Here’s everything you need to know about exploring the Lone Star State—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit Texas

Big skies and bigger parks. Barbecue and Tex-Mex food (don’t miss the breakfast tacos). A vibrant live music scene in   Austin and world-class birding in South Texas. Plus, cowboys .

Best time to visit Texas

Spring:   March and April bring colorful wildflowers (indigo-hued bluebonnets , red-and-yellow Indian blankets) to the highways and backroads in Central Texas. In Austin,   the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center has 284 acres of native plants inspired by the   Texas-born first lady . Outdoor festivals crowd the calendar. Austin’s South by Southwest Festival offers films and concerts each March; San Antonio ’s ebullient Fiesta   celebrates the city’s Hispanic heritage with parades, a stuff-your-face food festival , and concerts in April. And midway between Austin and Houston , the March Round Top Antiques Fair fills tents, barns, and hayfields with French furniture, vintage cowboy boots, and more.

Summer:   Y’all, it’s hot, with temperatures often soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Beat the heat at one of the state’s Gulf of Mexico beaches , including South Padre Island , where you can watch hatchling releases of baby Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles . Or do as the locals do and go tubing in the Guadalupe River near New Braunfels or in the Frio River in Garner State Park .

Autumn:   Cooler temps lure Texans outdoors to events such as the Austin City Limits Music Festival , with bands in Zilker Park,   or the State Fair of Texas   in Dallas where you can eat a corn dog and wave to Big Tex ,   the 55-foot-tall animatronic greeter.   Lost Maples State Natural Area ,   northwest of San Antonio, has the state’s best fall colors. Celebrate New Braunfels ’ German heritage at Wurstfest .

Winter:   Mild weather makes outdoor activities pleasant around the holidays. In San Antonio, stroll the Riverwalk, where the bald cypress trees are draped with twinkling lights. Amid the Victorian downtown of Galveston , Dickens on the Strand brings costumed revelers and roving musicians.  

Four of America’s largest cities are in Texas.

In the south, San Antonio was once a part of Spain and later Mexico, a history that shows up at the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions . Houston has high culture (art museums, the acclaimed Alley Theatre ) and the NASA Johnson Space Center , where tram tours take in Mission Control and other sites.  

Sister cities Dallas and Fort Worth are just 30 miles apart in North Texas. In “Big D,” catch home games from the Dallas Cowboys football team or hear live music in funky Deep Ellum . A good art museum scene and cowboy culture rule in neighboring Fort Worth, where hatted herders lead longhorn cattle through the Stockyards District every day.

The capital city of Austin is known for live music, barbecue, and Barton Springs Pool , a natural, spring-fed watering hole and the soul of the city.

In the Rio Grande Valley,   an agricultural region bordering Mexico, there are cities such as McAllen and Brownsville plus the varied wildlife habitats (wetlands, thorn forests) of the World Birding Center .

In West Texas, El Paso   offers Tex-Mex bordertown culture amid the stark beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert and the foothills of the Franklin Mountains , best explored via mountain bike or hiking trails.

Parks and smaller cities

The Hill Country

The rolling terrain of the Hill Country in Central Texas is home to Fredericksburg , with its throwback main street full of indie boutiques and German restaurants plus 60-plus wineries in and around town. You’ll also find cowboy culture in Bandera and the beer-drinking enclave made famous in Waylon Jennings’   song “ Luckenbach , Texas .”

The Big Bend  

Two of the state’s largest parks— Big Bend National Park and the adjacent Big Bend Ranch State Park —lure hikers, bikers, and campers to the desert and mountain landscapes of West Texas. Stargaze at the University of Texas’ McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, or check out the Donald Judd art installations in funky Marfa .  

Texas Coast  

The longest barrier island in the world, Padre Island stretches for 113 miles from the tip of South Texas to Corpus Christi .   Farther north, Galveston Island is the birthplace of Juneteenth and home to Victorian mansions.  

Panhandle  

Palo Duro Canyon , the second largest canyon in the U.S. and a state park, carves through the Panhandle for 120 miles.  

Getting in and around Texas

By plane: Dallas-Fort Worth International, George Bush Intercontinental in Houston, and Austin-Bergstrom International offer domestic and international service; San Antonio International serves Mexico and other cities in the U.S.

By bus: Vonlane   and RedCoach   have luxury bus service between Austin, Dallas/Forth Worth, Houston, and San Antonio. Valley Metro serves the Rio Grande Valley.

By train: Amtrak operates two train routes through Texas—the Texas Eagle   and Sunset Limited .

By car: Texas is easily accessible via major interstates including I-10, I-20, I-35, I-45, and I-37. One of the most scenic drives is FM 170, or the River Road, which hugs the Rio Grande and cuts through Big Bend Ranch State Park between Presidio and Lajitas.

In town: Major cities including Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso have bus service and bike share systems. DART rail in Dallas serves 65 stations. Austin’s CapMetro rail operates a single line from downtown to the northern suburbs. Houston’s three METRORail   lines connect tourist destinations. The Streetcar in El Paso loops through uptown and downtown.

Know before you go

Cultural history: Native Americans have occupied Texas for more than 14,000 years. Coastal tribes like the Karankawa were semi-nomadic, the Caddos in East Texas and Jumanos in the West farmed and traded. Comanches and Apaches hunted bison and raided villages in the north and west. Enslaved Africans helped the Spanish settle parts of Texas in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The flags of France, Spain, and Mexico once flew over the state, which declared its independence from Mexico in 1836 and joined the U.S in 1846. Texas seceded from the Union and joined the Confederate States of America in 1861. The end of enslavement was announced in Galveston at the end of the Civil War, leading to the Juneteenth holiday .   Immigrants from around the world, including Germany and Czechia,   arrived during the 18th   and 19th centuries, making their marks on places such as New Braunfels, Fredericksburg, and Kerrville .

LGBTQ+ : Texas ranked 27th in a 2020 24/7 Wall St. report of the most LGBTQ+-friendly states in the U.S. Despite Texas’ conservative politics, cities such as Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, and San Antonio get high marks on the Human Rights Campaign 2022 Municipal Equality Index scorecard.

How to visit Texas sustainably

Help preserve habitat by sticking to designated trails and roads. Support businesses that promote dark night skies. It’s legal to drive on public beaches, but watch for wildlife, including nesting sea turtles, and use reef-safe sunscreen. The Love Fredericksburg and Port A Way stewardship   campaigns encourage visitors to keep an eye out for wildlife and pick up litter. Look for LEED-certified hotels and restaurants committed to selling locally grown food.

What to read  

Empire of the Summer Moon , by S.C. Gwynne. This sweeping historic account follows four decades of fighting with the Comanches, Spanish colonialism, the decimation of the American bison and the arrival of railroads.

Forget the Alamo ,   by Bryan Burrough, Chris Tomlinson and Jason Stanford. The myths surrounding the Texas “cradle of liberty” get debunked and explored in this fascinating look at the evolution of the Lone Star State, its legends, and its prejudices. Valley of Shadows ,   by Rudy Ruiz. In this novel set in 19th-century West Texas, tensions along the Mexican border bubble up in dramatic, dark style—with a dash of magical realism.  

( For more tips on what to do in Texas, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• STATE PARKS
• DARK-SKY PRESERVES
• CITY GUIDES

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The top things to do on an I-40 road trip

Iconic Route 66 sites, cool towns, and picturesque parks from California to North Carolina

• Featured Trip Guides
• Classic American road trips

Created by Roadtrippers - January 7th 2021

Route 66 is the fabled pathway known as the Mother Road. Established in 1926, it connected Chicago and California and became a classic U.S. road trip.

Much of present-day Interstate 40 runs along Historic Route 66; however, where Route 66 turned northeast, Interstate 40 continues east, running through Arkansas, Tennessee, and North Carolina.

Connecting the East Coast and West Coast, I-40 takes travelers from Barstow, California, to Wilmington, North Carolina, passing through major cities such as Flagstaff, Albuquerque, Little Rock, Memphis, and Nashville.

Along the way, you'll find iconic Route 66 sites, cool towns, and picturesque parks. Check out our favorite things to do on I-40.

Barstow, California, United States

Barstow is a small town that oozes kitschy Historic Route 66 vibes. Check out the town's Route 66 Mother Road Museum or the Western American Rail Road Museum. Stock up on snacks and souvenirs at Barstow Station, a massive rest stop.

36600 Ghost Town Road, Yermo, CA, US

Calico Ghost Town

Ghost towns are dotted all across the west, and Calico is one of the cutest. Though it's been well-preserved, it is now more of a tourist attraction than an authentic historic stop. You'll find museums, shops, restaurants, train rides, and restored buildings. There's even a campground, if you're looking for a place to stay the night.

Mojave National Preserve

For a taste of the desert landscape you've been driving through on I-40, stop at the Mojave National Preserve. Scrubby plants, multicolored rocks, and stark, stony earth provide a unique view. The Mojave is especially breathtaking at sunset and sunrise. If you plan on hiking here, remember to be careful of the heat and lack of shade.

Old Route 66, Golden Valley, AZ, US

Cool Springs Gas Station

Don't expect to top off your tank here—the gas pumps, while beautifully restored, don't actually work. However, a pit stop at Cool Springs Gas Station is worthwhile because it's an authentic Route 66 icon. This once-abandoned gem of the Mother Road now includes a museum and souvenir shop.

Flagstaff, Arizona, United States

Surrounded by National Forests and U.S. Forest Service Wilderness Areas, Flagstaff is an oasis of natural beauty that also provides the pleasures of a big city. Check out the Museum of Northern Arizona during the day and the Lowell Observatory come nightfall. Grab lunch or dinner at Diablo Burger, which is known for its fresh, locally-grown ingredients. If you're in search of a place to stay in Flagstaff, the city provides unique options. The Little America Hotel features a gorgeous setting in a pine forest, and the Starlight Pines Bed and Breakfast will make you feel like royalty, thanks to the clawfoot tubs, private balconies, and delicious breakfasts.

I 40 Exit 233, Winslow, AZ, US

Meteor Crater

Just outside Flagstaff is one of the weirdest attractions in the west: Meteor Crater. This unbelievably massive impact crater formed from a meteor that hit Earth thousands of years ago. The mile-wide hole in the ground is topped with a visitor center that features a museum, videos, and an observation deck.

Exit 311, AZ, US

Petrified Forest National Park

Like Historic Route 66, I-40 cuts right through Petrified Forest National Park, which features impressive hikes and scenic viewpoints. The park is named for its glittering petrified wood, made from fossilized redwood trees that lived over 225 million years ago. Tour the Rainbow Forest, the Crystal Forest, and the Agate House, or hike the Blue Mesa Trail for views of the Painted Desert.

1000 E Historic Hwy 66, Gallup, NM, US

El Rancho Hotel and Motel

Click to discover a great deal!

Stepping into Hotel El Rancho is like stepping back in time to the 1930s, when Route 66 first started to gain popularity. The lobby features Southwestern motifs and native stone and wood. Even if you don't stay the night in one of the vintage rooms, grab enchiladas and a drink at the bar and soak up the history.

Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States

Eventually, I-40 will take you to Albuquerque. Famous for its balloon festival and association with the TV show Breaking Bad , this town has artsy Southwestern charm. Visit the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, grab a bite to eat at Perea's New Mexican Restaurant, and tuck in for the night at the Nativo Lodge. As for hotels in Albuquerque, there are some cool options. Hotel Parq Central is an old hospital turned sleek hotel, and the Casas de Suenos rents private adobe casitas in Old Town.

Route 66, Santa Rosa, NM, US

Blue Hole of Santa Rosa

If you're looking for a place to cool off while driving through the desert, then you won't find a better spot than the Blue Hole of Santa Rosa. The crystal-clear, deeply blue water is quite refreshing. Jump off the rocks into the pool, scuba dive to the bottom, or just dip your toes in and soak up the natural beauty of the setting.

924 E Tucumcari Blvd, Tucumcari, NM, US

Tee Pee Curios

The whole town of Tucumcari is pure retro bliss, but the crown jewel of the community might be Tee Pee Curios. The sign, decor, and building—with its concrete teepee out front—ooze an authentic 1950s aesthetic. Inside, you'll find a collection of souvenirs that range from kitschy to authentic Native American art. Stay in Tucumcari until after to dark to snap pictures of the vintage neon signs around town.

12601 W Interstate 40, Amarillo, TX, US

Cadillac Ranch

Amarillo is home to the iconic folk art attraction known as Cadillac Ranch. Proposed by three artists and financed by an eccentric millionaire, Cadillac Ranch went relatively unnoticed for a few years before becoming a popular road trip stop. The interactive nature adds to the fun—you can add your own graffiti to the row of Cadillacs. Bring your own paint—just be sure to take your trash with you when you go.

Amarillo, Texas, United States

Since I-40 only passes through a small portion of the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo is a great place to experience the Lone Star State. Home to the larger-than-life Big Texan Steak Ranch and authentic Tyler's BBQ, it has some good eats. You'll also find the vintage Wonderland Amusement Park and the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. If you are staying overnight, the Courtyard in Downtown Amarillo is in a historic building with a great location.

11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, TX, US

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is home to the second-largest canyon in the U.S. There are several trails that traverse the bottom of the canyon, and others take you to the rim for more expansive views. The campground gets high reviews and offers unbeatable stargazing.

1242 N Main St, Shamrock, TX, US

Tower Station and U-Drop Inn Café

Another major icon from the glory days of Route 66, the Tower Station Conoco and U-Drop Inn Cafe are probably recognizable to most because they inspired scenes in Disney's Cars . The classic Art Deco architecture has been thoroughly restored. Today, this is home to Shamrock's Chamber of Commerce and a visitor center.

3000 E Logan Rd, Weatherford, OK, US

Stafford Air & Space Museum

From a recreation of the Wright Brothers glider to an F-4 Phantom to spacesuits that were worn by astronauts in flight, the Stafford Air and Space Museum covers the history of air and space flight. There are 3,500 artifacts and objects on display, including a very impressive exhibit on the U.S.'s nuclear missiles, complete with a Titan II rocket.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States

Oklahoma City is the next major urban center along I-40. Home to offbeat attractions like the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, the Museum of Osteology, and the American Banjo Museum, along with an aquarium, a zoo, a science museum, an art museum, a history museum, and more, it's a rich city bursting with things to see and do. Hit up Ann's Chicken Fry House or Tucker's Onion Burgers for a classic OKC meal. If you are staying overnight, check out the Colcord luxury boutique hotel.

South side of Broadway between 3rd and 4th St, Okemah, OK, US

Woody Guthrie Statue

Woody Guthrie was a massively influential folk artist from Okemah. Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Johnny Cash, and more drew inspiration from Guthrie's huge catalogue of songs, many of which were based on his experiences during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. Today, a small park stands in Okemah with a statue and memorial plaque dedicated to Woody Guthrie.

301 Parker Avenue, Fort Smith, AR, US

Fort Smith National Historic Site

As you continue along I-40, you'll make your way into Arkansas. Stop at the Fort Smith National Historic Site for a look into the state's past. The fort was established in 1817, which means that this fort was the backdrop for an interesting history involving outlaws, settlers, and Native Americans. Tour the old buildings and the visitor center, which houses a museum with artifacts.

11901 Pinnacle Valley Rd., Roland, AR, US

Pinnacle Mountain State Park

Get out of the car and breathe in the fresh air at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. You can get a taste of the landscape at the visitor center or by hiking or biking one of the trails. The views from the top of the mountain are utterly breathtaking.

There's no bad time to road trip I-40. Since the route is pretty far south, snowy weather isn't too much of a concern. However, if it happens to snow, be prepared for slick roads. Never underestimate how hot it can get in the desert between Texas and California. Always bring plenty of water, and make sure your car's AC is in good working condition.

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Airlines compete for longhorn fans with promotions, flights for game trips, southwest added nonstop flights for travel between austin and detroit for ut-michigan matchup.

Ben Spicer , Digital Journalist

SAN ANTONIO – Two national airlines are trying to win over sports fans with new travel promotions and flights for 2024 game trips.

Southwest Airlines, according to their website , will fly nonstop to Detroit for fans choosing to attend the Texas Longhorns versus Michigan Wolverines football game, which is slated for 11 a.m. on Sept. 7, in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

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“Thinking about following your favorite college football team on the road this season? Southwest just made it easier for you with extra flights to see six marquee matchups in September and October,” the airline said. “On key weekends, we’ve added extra service between New Orleans and Las Vegas, Nashville and Oklahoma City, as well as Atlanta and Austin. Additionally, new service kicks off between Austin and Detroit, Birmingham and Milwaukee, and Columbus and Portland, Ore.”

The two non-stop flights are designed to help with game day travel. The flights will depart Austin at 11:40 a.m. on both Thursday and Friday, Sept. 5 and 6, and will land at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) at 3:35 p.m. local time. The airport is roughly 25 miles east of Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor.

Now THAT'S how you make a touchdown. 🏈 #sports pic.twitter.com/wBNNEhBxV4 — Southwest Airlines (@SouthwestAir) January 8, 2024

The airline said they are also offering return flights, one on Sunday, Sept. 8, leaving Detroit at 9 a.m. and arriving in Austin at 10:55 a.m. and another leaving at 4:55 p.m. and arriving at 6:50 p.m.

There is speculation that the flights will actually help in setting the largest attendance record for a Texas Longhorns’ football game. The current official record for attendance at a Texas football game home or away, is 105,565 and that was set on September 10, 2005, when the Longhorns played the Ohio State Buckeyes, which was a 25-22 victory.

Southwest Airlines, however, didn’t stop there for football fans, as the airline also is offering flights to Austin from Atlanta in anticipation of the big Oct. 19 game against the likely No. 1 Georgia Bulldogs. A return flight is also scheduled for Oct. 20.

American creates contest for lucky Longhorn fan

American meanwhile, has created a contest where a lucky winner and a guest will be able to fly to a Texas Longhorns’ volleyball game in Florida, courtesy of the airline.

The Longhorns are scheduled to play in the state of Florida during the dates of Oct. 5 and Oct. 7, according to a social media post released by the school. The teams and times for the games have not yet been announced.

Fans are able to enter daily for a chance to win, according to the airline.

The University of Texas already has an American Airlines Longhorns Perks Program, making it the official airline and airline rewards program of the school.

Travel to Florida to cheer on @texasvolleyball , courtesy of @americanair ! Enter daily at  https://t.co/aFsHf3k4oP for your chance to win🏐✈️ pic.twitter.com/Bw7dpkDr02 — Texas Longhorns (@TexasLonghorns) June 1, 2024

Copyright 2024 by KSAT - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Ben Spicer is a digital journalist who works the early morning shift for KSAT.

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Solo vacations: the 36 best places to travel alone in 2024.

These fun destinations make traveling on your own simple and spectacular.

(Getty Images) |

From beach retreats to artsy escapes, take your next solo trip to somewhere spectacular.

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The 10 best graduation trips to take in 2024

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Grab your friends and get ready for the trip of a lifetime © Frazao Studio Latino / Getty Images

There's nothing like graduating to make you want a celebratory vacation.

Both a massive accomplishment and a bittersweet end of an era, completing your studies can also be a reality check as you begin the next phase of your life.

So, where should you go once you graduate? These 10 incredible destinations allow you to put off real life for a little bit longer.

Affordable and with a wealth of diverse things to do, Mexico is the perfect post-graduation escape. The country has a happy place for everyone. Head to Tulum for a beachy, out-till-dawn vacation that is bursting will beach clubs, upscale cocktails and cerulean cenotes. Look to Puerto Vallarta for a classic, lay-by-the-pool escape. In Mexico City , you can try local delicacies and get lost in a museum for the afternoon. Stop by the stunning Museo Universitario del Chopo , which boasts an extensive contemporary art collection.  Oaxaca offers a mix of Indigenous and colonial influences, with day trips out to explore the natural world and local villages. Head to Santiago Apoala for a look at a remote Mixtec village in the heart of a towering mountain range. If the last four years in the library require some sunshine and a warm place to recover, there is no better place than Mexico to finish that beach read. 

2. Road trip across the US

Nothing bonds a group together like a long car journey, making a road trip across the US with your mates the perfect post-graduation send-off. It's hard to grasp the magnitude of the United States until you drive through it. Pick between visiting iconic national parks like Yellowstone ,   Yosemite  and the Grand Canyon , or cruising along the West Coast from the Redwoods to Joshua Tree  with a stop in some of the Golden State's famed cities, like San Francisco and Los Angeles . Uncovering the mysteries of the West has long been an American tradition, not to mention watching the landscapes change and evolve in a matter of days is a mesmerizing experience.

To keep this adventure affordable, try camping in the national parks rather than staying in hotels. It will require some advanced planning, maybe even some reservations. Visit nps.gov for more information.

Few places have the same vacation appeal as Greece . With its hot, sunny climate and stellar museums, especially the Acropolis Museum , the fantastic restaurants and endless island hopping opportunities, it's hard to have a dull moment. Pro-tip: Don't skip Athens . The birthplace of Western civilization and a paradise for thinkers, artists and scientists, come see the starting place for man's greatest ideas. 

When it comes to Greece's islands, Mykonos is where the nightlife takes center stage, while Santorini provides a more romantic and relaxing atmosphere. Beware, a steep price tag comes with Greece's most popular island spots. Alternatively, if you crave a slightly less touristy experience, the Ionian Islands in early autumn make a great escape. Slow down, eat your way through fresh local delicacies and see what makes the Mediterranean way of life so revered. 

4. Costa Rica

If college wasn't enough of a thrill, head to Costa Rica . Considered one of the happiest places on earth and packed with adventure opportunities, you can white water raft, zipline, traverse sky-high bridges, and surf the most stellar waves to your heart's content. 

If you've spent the last four years in the heart of a city and are in dire need of some nature, warm weather, and delicious food , this after-graduation trip is for you. Start your day with a hearty serving of gallo pinto , take refuge from the heat with a street mango smothered in lime juice, salt and chili powder and wrap up the day with chifrijo,  a local dish of fried pork and beans with all the toppings. Not to mention, eating your body weight in ceviche is considered a right of passage. Pura Vida is right!

5. Vietnam 

Affordable, beautiful and warm, a graduation trip to Vietnam gets you out of your comfort zone. Get lost in a sea of mopeds in Hanoi and slurp pho on stools along the sidewalk. Head up to Halong Bay , where you can tour its limestone islands on a junk boat. Enjoy an urban metropolis like Ho Chi Minh City , wander the Binh Tay Market  or visit Vietnam's only Taoist temple,  Khanh Van Nam Vien Pagoda , before cruising along the Mekong Delta and getting to know the locals at the Cai Rang Floating Market .

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

For a graduation trip that melds celebration with culture, look no further than New Orleans . The loud streets of this city burst with energy: live bands, dancing, cocktails and more. As New Orleans continues to be impacted by climate change, try to reduce your impact during your visit by using trains, bikes and public transport to explore the city.  Eat beignets (deep-fried pâte à choux pastries) in the French Quarter , listen to jazz in a dimly lit bar, and if you time it right, join in with the commotion of Mardi Gras . Beyond the nightlife, the Big Easy is famous for its flavorful cuisine and unique rich history. Make sure to take the time to appreciate both. Don't miss having a steaming bowl of gumbo or biting into a massive Po'boy. Follow it up with a visit to the  Ogden Museum of Southern Art , which explores the city's complex influences and longtime connection to the natural world.  

7. New York City

A graduation trip can also be an opportunity to test out potential places you may want to live. For many, that means New York City . Visit before you commit to living here: it's busy, loud, (sometimes) stinky and eye-openingly wonderful. But it's not for everyone. For this test run, spend your time checking out galleries and parks while eating at some amazing restaurants. It will be a pricey trip, no matter how hard you try to budget. Still, it's a great chance to meet new people and try every cuisine you can imagine. Make sure to catch the train to Brooklyn for an afternoon in the Botanical Gardens .

8. South Africa

Not ready to stop learning? Head to South Africa . With a tumultuous and storied history, a trip to this stunning country can be life-changing. Apartheid isn't that far in the rearview mirror, and its lasting effects are visible across much of the nation. Dedicate time to visiting some of the historical sites in Johannesburg, such as the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill , a former prison turned Constitutional Court. Then, hit the beach to surf some famous waves at Addington Beach along the iconic Golden Mile or catch glimpses of South Africa's diverse wildlife in the expansive Kruger National Park . Keep your eyes peeled for big cats, elephants, rhinos and more. Find time to catch at least one sunset from the top of Table Mountain . Its unmatched views are accessible by cable car in Cape Town.

With stunning fjords, shooting geysers, natural hot springs and the northern lights – Iceland offers an otherworldly reset from your studies. A nature-first vacation, try and dedicate some time beyond the beautiful capital Reykjavik . You'll need a large budget to chase waterfalls, sip pints and toast your graduation in Iceland, but you'll look at the world entirely anew. 

10. Florence, Italy

Florence offers a decadence and youthfulness that is easier to access than in Rome or Naples , and its Renaissance beauty will fill your aching heart if you don't want to leave university or college. Marvel at Botticelli's masterpiece, the Birth of Venus, in the Uffizi and wander the expansive Boboli Gardens . Luxuriate with two-hour dinners on one of their many piazzas, climb to the top of the fabled Duomo to take in the rolling hills in the distance. There is so much to love about Florence, but like most major cities in Italy, it can be expensive, but it's the price you pay to heal your heartache.

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