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

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

Best Road Trips from Houston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Road Trips from Houston – Beach Getaways

Galveston island.

Road Trips from Houston | Image Credit: Galveston Island

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

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

South Padre Island

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

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

Corpus Christi

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

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

Best Road Trips from Houston – Nature Escapes

Sam houston national forest.

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

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

Caddo Lake State Park

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

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

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

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

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

Hot Springs National Park

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

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

Lake Charles

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

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

Big Bend National Park

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

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

Texas Road Trips from Houston – History & Culture

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

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

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

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

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

Fredericksburg

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

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

San Antonio

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

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

New Orleans

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

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

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

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

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

Houston Road Trips – Texas Hill Country Charm

Texas hill country.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities Near Houston to Visit – City Adventures

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

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

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

New Braunfels

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

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

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

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

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

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About The Author

Kathryn Yacovodonato

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

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

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

Thanks Kat!?

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7 Epic Texas Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

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

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

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

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

Unforgettable Texas Road Trip Ideas

Austin to san antonio loop.

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

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

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

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

Recommended Road Trip Length

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

Small Hill Country Towns + Outdoor Adventures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wide Open Spaces in West Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dallas Loop Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gulf Coast Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Piney Woods Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tricks + Tips for Road Trips in Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Texans drive fast, so be prepared!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Glad to hear it, Fred! Enjoy Texas 🙂

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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

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The 9 Best Weekend Road Trips from Houston, Texas

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

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

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

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

Related Read: The 8 Best Texas Lake Camping Destinations

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

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

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

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

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

2. San Antonio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Read:   8 Cozy Cabin Rentals Near Dallas, Texas

4. Fort Worth

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

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

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

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

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

5. Fredericksburg

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

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

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

Related Read: 12 Refreshing Swimming Holes Near Austin, Texas

6. Galveston

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

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

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

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

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

7. Corpus Christi

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

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

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

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

8. New Braunfels

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

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

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

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

9. Lake Charles

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

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

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

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

Related Read:   6 Awesome Campervan Rentals in Houston, Texas

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Seen in: Houston , Road Trips , Texas

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski

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

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

The Ultimate Houston to Austin Road Trip Itinerary

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Texas road trip - The ultimate 1 week itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a lazy lunch then visit the Cathedral of Junk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have a classic Texas BBQ feast at Black's Barbecue

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Drive west to Hamilton Pool Preserve

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Head back to the car and drive south to Bandera

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Head to Silver Spur Ranch to go horseback riding

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

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

Drive on to San Antonio and have dinner on the Riverwalk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Head to the Historic Market Square for lunch

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Have dinner then head to the Pearl District for a drink

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

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

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

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

Drive straight to space center houston.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go for dinner at The Pass & Provisions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go for dinner at the top of Reunion Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Browse the Kimbell Art Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy the tranquillity of the Fort Worth Water Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

Go to the Fort Worth Stockyards and watch the cattle drive

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spend the evening at Billy Bob's Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Say goodbye to Texas and head to the airport

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

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The 6 most spectacular road trips in Texas

Aug 28, 2023 • 8 min read

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

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

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

1. Hill Country

Best scenic road trip Austin–San Antonio; 200 miles 

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

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

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

2. Big Bend Loop

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

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

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

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

3. Houston & the Gulf Coast

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

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

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

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

4. Route 66 & the Texas Panhandle Loop

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

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

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

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

5. Fort Worth, Dallas & Northeast Texas

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

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

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

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

6. Texas BBQ and Dance Halls

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

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

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

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

This article was first published November 2020 and updated August 2023

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20 Great Road Trips from Houston

Whenever you are a resident of Houston , or just visiting by, you can be sure to enjoy some of the great and unforgettable road trip moments. Right from rivers, lakes, city breaks to nature parks, and many more road trip destinations, you are spoilt for choice. You’re also sure to have fun, as well as unwind through fantastic outdoor moments with either friends or family.

Read on to discover some of the 20 great road trips from Houston that you may as well live by.

1. Galveston, Texas and the Kemah Boardwalk

This one-hour drive destination from Houston is incredible for a road trip during summertime. It is one that you may wish to enjoy all day long: you never get enough of it. You get to catch the deep-sea breeze as you take pleasure in relaxation and entertainment. Galveston Island is one of the most popular Gulf Coast tour destinations in Houston. Also, along the Gulf freeway is the Kemah Boardwalk, a fabulous amusement park situated alongside the Trinity bay coastal areas. The place contains a serene atmosphere for you to unwind, and afterward enjoy the great rides.

2. Nasa Center

The 30-minute drive from Houston location is a museum found at the Johnson Space Center. You can visit at any time of the year apart from Christmas day. The destination is a focal point for USA’s space exploration-based programs. You can travel around the facility behind the scenes, where astronauts live and train from.

3. Texas City

Texas City is a perfect destination for road trips all year long, with awesome sunsets during fall. It is a 50-minute drive from Houston. Surrounded by water, the city makes your road trip worthwhile. It is an incredible picnic site, alongside taking long strolls, as you wait for the breathtaking moment of the sun setting over the water. There is also the Texas museum, which is well-equipped with exhibits, local history, and even model train sets collection.

4. Austin, Texas

Having been identified as the fastest developing city in the United States, the almost 3-hour drive from Houston to Austin is always worth it, especially in September and October. In essence, the weather is perfect, and you enjoy a lesser crowd. The city of Austin stands out from other significant towns in Texas. It offers a beautiful and serene atmosphere. Nature here offers you the Colorado River flowing through Austin’s downtown, plus parks aligned to the river banks. There are also extensive outdoor swimming pools whose water sources include the local springs.

5. San Antonio, Texas

It takes you around 3-hours to travel from Houston to San Antonio . Apart from having some of the best historic sites in the USA, the city also contains Riverwalk , one of the best scenic locations in Texas, including a calm atmosphere, plus varied striking places that offer you long-lasting memories. You can sit and gaze upon the surrounding beauty, as you sip on your favorite drink, or take your best meal.

6. Marshall, Texas

The almost 4-hours drive from Houston to Marshall offers you scenic views that you will live to cherish. The Pacific and Texas Railway museums contain rich cultural histories worth your visit.

7. College Station, Texas

College Station, a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Houston, is famous for its many beautiful sites to behold. Some major sights include the great George Bush Presidential Library and historical museum. With the excellent models of the situation room, as well as the Oval Office, you can get photo shootings while sitting behind the image. There are also beautiful parks for picnicking around the College Station.

8. Huntsville Texas and the Blue Lagoon

It takes about one hour and a half driving from Houston to Huntsville. While visiting Huntsville, some of the sites to look out for include the Sam Houston Memorial Museum that commemorates General Sam’s life. It positions directly in front of the house that he lived in. Also, the Steamboat House, where he died, is another prominent site. Some miles away from the museum, there’s also General Sam Houston’s colossal statue, which you can stare at for a while. There’s also the stunning blue lagoon, the two water pools formed in the old limestone quarry.

9. Brazos Bend State Park

The small state park sits on the West of the Brazos River. Elm Lake is at the center. As you make your way around the different paths connecting the lakes, you will see different types of beautiful birds that will catch your attention. However, you should stay keen on alligators around the lakes. Usually, it’s a one-hour drive from Houston to Brazos.

10. Twin Lakes

Twin Lakes is situated closely to Houston. It is beautiful scenery where you can visit and swim, paddle, fish, and scuba. There are also barbeque pits for grilling.

11. Seguin, TX

Seguin is a beautiful town surrounded by Guadalupe. There are plenty of cascading waters featuring around town. You’ll never miss a number of exciting activities while in Seguin. There are amazing festivals, live music, kayaking, and home to the world’s largest Pecan. Son’s Island located in the middle of Lake Placid, together with the sandy beach, blue water, and cabana rentals are all sights to behold.

12. Sea Center Texas

It is an aquatic and aquarium educational center situated close to Lake Jackson. There are several exhibits, as well as fish hatcheries. Your visit is also made complete by the three forest areas, the interactive museum, and the Center for Arts and Sciences.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nF4GQzo7eg

13. Fort Worth

There are tons of fun activities for you in Fort Worth , hence worthy consideration for a great road trip. You can visit the cultural district, Sundance Square, the trailhead, stockyards, and get to enjoy fantastic meals at their restaurants. They also have a permanent collection of Monet, which is a must-see for you to complete your visit.

Waco, the heart of Texas has so much for you. The Magnolia markets, flagship home, the great Waco Mammoth National Monument , the Cameron Park nationally-recognized trails, are all worth your whole day visit. A visit to the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame , and an evening trip to Buzzard Billy’s Swamp Shack, will wrap up your fabulous day.

15. Fredericksburg

You can take a road trip to this destination in Texas, not only for the fabulous shopping but also for its great attractions and natural beauty that will captivate you. Ensure you do not miss out on the Pioneer Museum or Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park , and above all, the fascinating Rock State Natural Area- a vast dome-like limestone mountain, with trailblazers.

16. Barton Springs in Austin

The spring-fed municipal pool has lifeguards all-year-round. It is located right off Austin’s Colorado River and is a perfect road trip destination near Houston. You will also enjoy plenty of grass spots for sunbathing.

17. Wimberley

Famous for its swimming and tubing, Wimberley houses both Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole Regional Park . You will fancy both of these natural areas, which contain beautiful and clear water holes. You can also have a glimpse of the Corral Theatre, as well as the drive-in movie theater.

18. Rio Frio – Three Rivers, Texas

Located in Three Rivers, Texas, it is one of the best rivers around. As spring-fed rivers, the waters are crystal-clear. There are also rapids and waterfalls within. Nothing beats nature, and you can be sure to enjoy your trip to Rio Frio. The river is also close to Garner State Park, which is identified as the most attractive park in Texas. The place is also friendly to kids, as well as to the elderly. Ensure you confirm the water levels and the rates of flow before you visit.

19. Chisos Mountains

This is a perfect road trip destination from Houston. The mountain basin contains scenic drives, rivers, and many more for your exploration. It forms one of the most alluring parks in the state, with landscape varieties that include well-carved canyons, limestone cliffs, and desert scenes. The kids will love their trip to Colorado Canyon, as well as the Mariscal experienced rafters.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lv5YsqOeyAw

20. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Texas,’ Palo Duro is like a world wonder. The sunset-colored cliffs and crimson mountains give you an ‘out of this world’ feeling. It is also a fantastic place for horse-riding. Visiting this destination, you’re sure to have a memorable road trip from Houston.

With the day drives to the rivers, lakes, mountains, parks, Gulf beaches, museums, and drives through Texas desert, as well as the incredible city breaks, Houston surroundings form the perfect destination to enjoy breathtaking road trip moments.

8 Road Trips from Houston

Written by jill robbins, louisiana | north america | road trips | texas | travel | united states.

Starting out in Houston and want to explore? Whether you have one day or a few, these are our favorite road trips from Houston.

If you’re looking for a fun trip with Houston, Texas as your starting point, here are eight places you may or may not have considered. Many of these are great day trip lengths—two hours or less each way. A couple (Fredericksburg and San Angelo) have drive times of more than three hours and may be better suited to a long weekend. Whatever length is right for you, these eight trips from Houston will get you in the mood to start planning that road trip .

What's in This Article:

I’ve included the mileage and average drive time according to Google, with the center of Houston as your starting point, so your mileage will vary a little bit from the time and mileage I’ve listed. And, if you’re starting out from Houston, you probably already know that traffic can be a wildcard.

Enjoy these eight trips from Houston. I hope they make you want to explore the area.

There are some great road trips from Houston, Texas. Photo by João Cachapa

• Traveling to Texas is unlike any other adventure you crossed off your bucket list. The ultimate dreamland for free spirits whose soul craves deep connection with nature, Texas is rich in picturesque landscapes that’ll leave you breathless.

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

1. Beaumont

85 miles/1 hour 13 minutes

Beaumont is located directly off Interstate 10, which makes it a quick and easy ride from Houston, depending on what the traffic is doing. One bonus of visiting Beaumont is that there are so many free things to do, so it’s easy to do this trip from Houston on a shoestring budget.

Beaumont, TX offers great things for families, all within an easy drive of Houston. Photo by Dwain Cox for Beaumont CVB

Don’t miss Beaumont’s Cattail Marsh , especially if the weather is nice. There’s a boardwalk overlooking scenic wetlands that are great for wildlife watching. You might even spot an alligator.

Visiting the Spindletop Gladys City Boomtown Museum is another activity to put at the top of your list. This open-air museum on the campus of Lamar University gives a great, hands-on view of the Texas oil boom.

Spindletop is an open-air museum that offers fun and learning for all ages. Photo by Jill Robbins

While there’s no shortage of places to eat, Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp is a don’t miss for me. I live about five hours from Beaumont, and I’ve seriously thought about going back solely to eat at this restaurant. There are plenty of places to spend the night just off I-10. You won’t find anything fancy, but there’s a good variety of familiar hotel chains to choose from.

Check out more things to do in Beaumont here .

2. Lake Charles, Louisiana

143 miles/2 hours

Texas is such a large state that it usually takes a few hours of driving to cross the border. Not so when you begin in Houston and head East on I-10.

Whether you’re looking to celebrate Mardi Gras, enjoy outdoor activities like golf or kayaking, or sample legendary Cajun Cuisine, Lake Charles, Louisiana is an easy trip from Houston.

There is a lot to love about Lake Charles, LA. If you are looking for a more family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration, this just might be it. Photo by Jill Robbins

My top picks for places to eat are Luna Bar & Grill , Crying Eagle Brewery (awesome pizzas and a full bar if craft beer isn’t your thing), and   Insane Sausages in nearby Vinton.

If you’re looking to stay and play, The Golden Nugget and L’Auberge are my top picks. They’re located near all the action and offer a ton of in-resort amenities, such as gambling, shopping, live entertainment, and a lazy river if you don’t feel like leaving your resort.

Check out more things to do in Lake Charles here .

3. San Antonio

197 miles/2 hours 49 minutes

With the drive from Houston to San Antonio being just under three hours each way, this is one of the trips from Houston that’s probably best if you have an entire weekend to spend. Remember to pack your cooler with all of your favorite treats!

There are lots of hotels and dining options located along the San Antonio Riverwalk. Photo by Jill Robbins

As a popular convention and tourist city, visitors to San Antonio usually want to explore the River Walk and the historic  Pearl , which is a former brewery that’s been redone. It includes a luxury hotel, shops, a food hall, and lovely outdoor space. A weekend trip is the perfect length of time to spend in either location, but the options in this large Texas city are almost endless.

The Alamo might already be on your list of things to check out, and if you’re staying downtown, that’s easy to do. If you have time, the other four San Antonio missions are worth a little extra effort. The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas.

Check out more things to do in San Antonio here .

4. A Day Trip from Houston to the Capital City of Austin

162 miles/ 2 hours 33 minutes

If you fancy a visit to Texas’ capital city, you won’t lack things to do in Austin. From a legendary music scene to trendy restaurants, Austin has some of the best nightlife in the state.

There are so many things awaiting you during a visit to Austin, Texas. Photo by Kate Baucherel via Pixabay

If you want to focus on outdoor activities, check out the famous SoCo district. South Congress Avenue offers plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars that always feature live music. Or you might decide to float or Kayak one of the area lakes or rivers or swim in one of the nearby natural watering holes, such as Barton Springs Pool or McKinney Falls State Park .

Barton Springs Pool is a great natural swimming hole to check out if you visit Austin during the hot summer. Photo courtesy of Unsplash/Tomek Bagzinski

Check out more things to do in Austin here .

5. Fredericksburg

237 miles/3 hours 45 minutes

Because of Fredericksburg’s proximity to the 290 Wine Trail, you’d be correct in assuming that wine tasting is a popular activity for those visiting Fredericksburg. If you’re interested in something besides wine, the newly-opened Dietz Distillery is a fun stop. In addition to day drinking, downtown Fredericksburg has fantastic shopping and two museums, The Pioneer Museum and the National Museum of the Pacific War . There are nearby hiking trails and gorgeous views at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Photo courtesy S. Rawls and Visit Fredericksburg

If you want to enjoy a great meal, Fredericksburg is certainly the place to do it. With such a German name, you’d be correct in your guess that Fredericksburg is a great place to grab schnitzel and bratwurst. However, upscale yet still approachable Fredericksburg eateries such as Hill & Vine and Sage are perfect if you want to explore something a little more adventurous.

Spring strawberries and summer peaches—buy fresh or pick your own—are part of the fun of visiting Fredericksburg TX. Photo by Jill Robbins

Check out more things to do in Fredericksburg here —there’s something going on every weekend.

6. Columbus

73 miles/1 hour 3 minutes

Just an hour from downtown Houston, the small city of Columbus is a fun place to explore for the day. There are several campgrounds and RV parks along the Colorado River, which makes this area a popular spot for outdoor fun.

Fun things to do in Columbus include checking out the Live Oak Art Center , the Santa Claus Museum (dedicated to Santa memorabilia from all over the world), taking a walking or driving tour of the picturesque downtown area, and snapping pictures in front of the third-largest Live Oak in Texas. The latter might sound a little corny, but at over 70 feet high, this tree is still very impressive, even if it’s now in third place.

This massive Live Oak once held the title of “Biggest Live Oak Tree in Texas.” Although now it’s in third place, it’s still impressive. Photo by Jill Robbins

Columbus is a fun little afternoon escape from Houston or a new town to explore while you’re camping or doing a more outdoor-centered trip. To read more about things to do and local events, click here .

7. Brazosport

65 miles/1 hour 4 minutes

The Brazosport area encompasses Clute, Freeport, Lake Jackson, Quintana, and Surfside Beach. While the beaches may be the draw, there are a variety of things to do in the area besides going to the beach. There are four beaches in the Brazosport area: Surfside Beach, Follet’s Beach, Quintana Beach, and Bryan’s Beach. You may hear the locals refer to Follet’s Beach as “the free beach” because there’s no fee to drive and park on the beach.

Surfside Beach—the beaches in the Brazosport area make great trips from Houston. Photo by Jill Robbins

Other things to do include visiting the Varner Hogg Plantation State Historic Site , Sea Center Texas , and Brazos Bend State Park. Lake Jackson is the largest city in the Brazosport area and you’ll find lots of shopping and lodging options there.

Here’s more about Brazosport and the things to do there.

8. San Angelo

365 miles/5 hours 42 minutes  

Houston to San Angelo is the longest trip listed. Unless you really, really enjoy driving, this is best saved for a three- or four-day weekend or a longer vacation. I wanted to include it on this list of trips from Houston because it takes you to a completely different part of Texas, and it’s fun to get a peep at such a different landscape. There’s a lot of small-town charm and enough activities to keep you going for two or three days.

Enjoy art, a walking path, and other outdoor activities along the Concho River in San Angelo. Photo courtesy of Visit San Angelo

Enjoy shopping and restaurants and take in the murals and other street art in the walkable downtown area. You can learn about Old West History at Fort Concho , you’ll find a variety of things to keep you busy in San Angelo. For those who are interested in camping or hiking, there’s San Angelo State Park , which is home to Bison and the state herd of Texas Longhorn cattle.

See the state herd of Texas Longhorns in San Angelo. Photo by Candice Estep via iStock by Getty Images

Articles Related to Road Trips from Houston

• Fredericksburg: Luxury Escape in the Texas Hill Country
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• 9 Day Trips from San Antonio
• George H.W. Bush Presidential Library

Great Road Trips from Houston—Which One Will You Take?

Some of these trips from Houston are easy to combine to make a longer trip, such as either San Antonio or Austin with Fredericksburg or Beaumont and Lake Charles. Whatever destination you pick and whether you’re looking to plan a quick escape or a longer, more immersive trip, I hope you’ve found something on this list of cities that sparks an interest in discovering something new.

When it’s time to plan your next day trip or a longer family vacation , be sure to check out Wander for great travel ideas and let the adventures begin.

Beach Vacations | Family Travel | Fredericksburg | Houston | Outdoor Activities | San Antonio | Small Towns | Summer Travel | Weekend Getaway

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Absolutely Best Road Trips from Houston

Texas lends itself well to adventure

America’s fourth-largest city is a cosmopolitan destination filled with world-class dining, arts, entertainment, shopping, and outdoor recreation. Take a stroll through the historic Heights, spend the day exploring the Museum District, or head down to Space Center Houston.

We love Houston even for its bonkers weather. But that doesn’t mean we don’t like to get away from it all. With that in mind, we’ve put together a little road trip bucket list with mini itineraries for a variety of interest. Best of all, you won’t even need to be on the road that long: we’re talking six-hour drives, tops, which in Texas terms is basically a trip around the corner.

Best Outdoor Getaway: Guadalupe River State Park, Texas

Distance from Houston: 206 miles

With Big Bend roughly 640 miles and 5 billion worlds away (qualifying it for more than just a short road trip), Guadalupe River State Park is a great spot for a scenic adventure in the Great Outdoors. Many folks come here to swim but the park is more than a great swimming hole with beautiful scenery and colorful history.

On the river, you can swim, fish, tube, and canoe. In the dog days of summer, you’ll want to beat the heat and kayak or canoe the Guadalupe River which boasts the 5 mile Guadalupe River State Park Paddling Trail.

While on land, you can camp, hike, ride mountain bikes or horses, picnic, geocache, and bird watch. Explore 13 miles of hike and bike trails. Trails range from the 2.86-mile Painted Bunting Trail to the .26-mile Barred Owl Trail, which leads you to a scenic overlook of the river. Camping is the way to go, here with 85 campsites offering amenities like picnic tables, outdoor grills, fire pits, and water, and electricity.

Best Barbecue Getaway: Lockhart, Texas

Distance from Houston: 156 miles

A short trip to this flavor-packed smoke town should be on any food lover’s bucket list. Dubbed the “BBQ Capital of Texas,” Lockhart is easily one of the most legendary barbecue destinations in the world. While you could make it a daytrip you’ll need several days or more to eat your way through it. Don’t forget to pack a cooler, though, because you’ll want to bring some meat home.

Your Day One itinerary includes the bulk of your eating, as you tackle at least two of the Big Three: Black’s Barbecue (open since 1932), Kreuz Market (est. 1900), and Smitty’s Market (since 1948). You need to consume a lot of meat today, so be sure to stop for breaks. Proceed in any order you please. 

At Black’s, third generation pitmaster Kent Black is slow smoking his barbecue with a simple rub and local Post Oak wood. Choose the behemoth beef rib, packing a 9-inch long bone with around 2 inches of fatty, marbled beef cocooning it; and don’t forget the hand-stuffed and -tied homemade sausage (original, garlic, or jalapeno-cheddar), made from an 80-year-old recipe that has stood the test of time.

The black soot covering Smitty’s foyer and pit room is a good sign—it means the place is alive and kickin’ after all these years. Go for the Texas trinity of brisket, pork ribs, and sausage, fresh from the pit, and throw on a pork chop if you’re feeling wild. This is the kind of spot where asking for sauce is welcome and it’s a tasty sauce indeed. 

Lockhart has one more stop in store for you before the drive home: Chisholm Trail Barbecue (opened by a Black’s alum in 1978). There’s a drive-through and BBQ sandwiches if you so please, but you can also head inside for a full plate lunch packed with smoked turkey, sausage links, and moist brisket with sides like mac and cheese, hash browns, and broccoli salad… because you should probably get some greens in.

Best Getaway to Czech Out: La Grange

Distance from Houston: 100 miles

Etched in the eroded headstones in the city cemetery and the cemeteries at the nearby “painted churches”—quaint little chapels with exquisite, spangled interiors—are the names of German and Czech immigrants who flocked to the town starting in the 1840s. With its rich heritage, it’s no surprise that La Grange is the hub for celebrating the Czech culture in Texas. Over 80 percent of the Czech Moravian families that settled in Texas at some time lived in Fayette County before they spread out across the state.

For starters, Czech out the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center. Vitáme Vás is the Czech equivalent of “howdy”, and you’ll certainly feel welcome.

Monument Hill State Park is 40-acres of land on a bluff overlooking La Grange. The state park is home to the site of Monument Hill, the grounds on which the war to keep Texas free was fought. Also housed in the park are the ruins of Kreische Brewery, one of Texas’ first commercial breweries.

The Czech immigrants incorporated different aspects of their culture into the town, perhaps the most apparent being the architecture of the buildings standing in the town square. In the center of the Square sits the current Fayette County Courthouse, the fourth structure to house county business since 1838.

The settlers also introduced a town favorite treat—the kolache! The best spots to grab a kolache is Weikel’s Bakery. Don’t worry—you don’t have to squeeze every flavor into one trip… Weikel’s will ship these goodies anywhere in the country!

Best Island Getaway: Galveston Island, Texas

Distance from Houston: 50 miles

Come to the island to stroll the beach or splash in the waves. Or come to the island to go fishing or look for coastal birds. No matter what brings you here, you’ll find a refuge at Galveston Island State Park. Just an hour from Houston, but an island apart!

The Texas coast is on an hourglass-shaped migratory path called the Central Flyway that extends from Alaska to South America. This makes Galveston Island State Park a must-see birding spot, especially with its combination of beach, prairie, and marsh.

Love it or hate it, Galveston is the closest beach to Houston (and we do love it). Here’s how you can love it, too: If it’s not a beach day, you’re spending the rest of the day exploring. Hit the historic Strand District, a 70-block jewel where you’ll find gorgeous Victorian buildings housing museums, boutiques, theaters, shops, and La King’s Confectionary, an old-timey sweets shop where you’ll be picking up some ice cream, dipped chocolates, and taffy. 

Before you make the short trip back to H-town, get in some extra island time by hitting the 32-miles of sands, having some old school fun at the Pleasure Pier amusement park, checking out historically and architecturally significant spots like the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa and 1892 Bishop’s Palace, or at the very least, getting a beer at Galveston Island Brewing Company. 

Texas Spoken Friendly

Worth Pondering…

Well it’s lonesome in this old town Everybody puts me down I’m a face without a name Just walking in the rain Goin’ back to Houston, Houston, Houston 

—lyrics by Lee Hazelwood, recorded by Dean Martin (1965)

15 Road Trips from Houston That Show Off the Best Part of Texas

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While Houston, Texas is chock-full of culture and things to do, The Lone Star State is home to dozens of just-as-incredible destinations within easy driving distance. Whether you prefer to hit the beach, explore a new city or spend the weekend wine-tasting away, these road trip destinations are sure to impress any type of traveler. Have we got your attention yet? Read on for the best road trips you can take from Houston that make for an easy—and fun!— weekend getaway . Happy travels, y’all!

The 25 Most Beautiful Places in Texas

1. Dallas, Texas

Tripadvisor.

• Driving Distance: 240 miles (approx. four hours)
• Why We Love It : great food and drink, shopping, arts and culture, history
• Where to Stay : The Joule (from $262/night), Wild Stallion (from $136/night), Loft Penthouse Suite (from $89/night), Thompson Dallas (from $263/night)

Embark on a road trip to Dallas to experience some of the Lone Star State’s best food and drink offerings, which range from artisan bread and pastries at Eatzi’s Market & Bakery to fresh sushi at Nobu Dallas , to innovative cocktails at Punch Bowl Social . Tight on time? Take a food and culture walking tour to experience everything this modern metropolis has to offer in both realms. Meanwhile, art lovers can spend some time in the city’s Arts District , home to the Dallas Museum of Art , the Crow Collection of Asian Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center . Indulge in some retail therapy at the boutique-lined Highland Park Village followed by a celebratory happy hour drink at Uchi and The Standard Pour . 

2. Grapevine, Texas

• Driving Distance: 261 miles (approx. four hours)
• Why We Love It : historic charm, quaint Main Street, wine tasting, outdoor adventure
• Where to Stay : Hotel Vin, Autograph Collection (from $308/night), Robin’s Nest (from $134/night) 

Grapevine is best known for its historic centuries-old buildings, most of which can be found along quaint Main Street. Here, you’ll also find a slew of mom-and-pop eateries, shops (don’t miss the Texas General Store for fun Texas-themed souvenirs) and galleries. Don’t skip town without spending an afternoon exploring the historic Cotton Belt Railroad District, either. Wine lovers , rejoice: Grapevine is also home to seven tasting rooms where you can kick back, relax and sip on a glass (or two) of vino. Lastly, if the weather’s nice, make your way to the 8,000-acre Lake Grapevine , where outdoor activities—from boating, fishing, water-skiing, hiking and biking—abound.

3. Irving, Texas

• Driving Distance: 253 miles (approx. 4 hours)
• Why We Love It : art and culture, history, spas, golf
• Where to Stay : Texican Court (from $149/night), Luxury Lake Loft (from $118/night)   

Like Grapevine, the city of Irving is located right outside of Dallas. The destination is home to the namesake Irving Arts Center, which has over 90,000 square feet of performing and visual arts space. The Ruth Paine House Museum —where JFK’s assassin spent the night before committing the heinous act—is a must-visit for U.S. history buffs. Golf enthusiasts can even practice their swing at one of four courses . Besides, no trip to Irving is complete without checking out the Mandalay Canals , best explored via gondola or stand-up paddle board. Afterward, treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage at a nearby spa (there are around a dozen to choose from). Lastly, for ample shopping, drinking and dining, make your way to the bustling Las Colinas Entertainment District .

4. Fort Worth, Texas

• Driving Distance: 265 miles (approx. 4 hours)
• Why We Love It : history, art, entertainment, shopping, mouthwatering food
• Where to Stay : Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection (from $369/night), Western-Inspired Home (from $182 /night)

For a fun-filled getaway, hit the road and head to the Forth Worth Stockyards . Here, you’ll find over two-dozen bars and restaurants that run the gamut from fresh-baked biscuits at The Biscuit Bar to haute Italian fare at Caterina's , to ice-cold brews at Second Rodeo Brewing . Later, head to Billy Bob’s —home of the world’s largest honky-tonk—to catch a show or hop on the mechanical bull. The next day, spend the morning strolling through Mule Alley before checking out the world’s only year-round rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum . Alternatively, catch the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive on Exchange Street before listening to live music at Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall . Don’t skip town without snagging an epic souvenir: We recommend customizing a hat at Flea Style .

5. Beaumont, Texas

• Driving Distance: 85 miles (approx. 1.5 hours)
• Why We Love It: nature, outdoors, food, art
• Where to Stay: MCM Elegante Hotel (from $100/night), Stylish, Cozy, Peaceful Home (from $131/night)

Just one-and-a-half hours from Houston is the coastal city of Beaumont. A popular place for nature enthusiasts, Beaumont offers loads of outdoor activities like birding, paddling (don’t miss the Village Creek Paddling Trail ) and hiking, the latter of which can be enjoyed at Big Thicket National Preserve , the first Preserve in the National Park System. After a day spent exploring the outdoors, you’re likely to work up an appetite. In this case, check out some stops along the stops on the Cajun Food Trail and savor regional delicacies like gumbo, crawfish and etouffee. Art lovers will also appreciate a visit to Beaumont, which is home to the Art Museum of Southeast Texas , the Dishman Art Museum and lots of ‘gram-worthy murals . 

6. Waco, Texas

• Driving Distance: 185 miles (approx. 3 hours)
• Why We Love It: history, shopping, nature, shops
• Where to Stay: Hotel Indigo (from $138/night), Red Oak Cabin 102 (from $82/night), Bagby Bungalow (from $99/night)

This central Texas city—about halfway between Houston and Dallas—is home to an abundance of antique shops (including Sparrow and Central Goods , among many others) and local boutiques, making it the perfect place for a shopping spree. Waco’s vibrant Downtown Cultural District is home to some of the destination’s best galleries, bars and restaurants, making it well worth a stroll. Other must-see attractions include the Dr. Pepper Museum , Magnolia Silos , Waco Mammoth National Monument and Cameron Park Zoo . Meanwhile, HGTV fans should certainly check out the Magnolia Trail , a list of locales featured on locals Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Network. Finally, feast on local favorites like Texas BBQ at Vitek’s or decadent ‘wiches at Schmaltz Sandwich Shop .

7. Tyler, Texas

• Driving Distance: 198 miles (approx. 3.5 hours)
• Why We Love It: flowers, scenery, shopping, antiques, arts
• Where to Stay: The Thomas Hotel (from $219/night), High Hill Farm (from $302/night), Modern 2 Bedroom in Azalea District (from $134/night)

As The Rose Capital of Texas, Tyler is a fantastic spot for floral lovers. From late March to early April, visitors can admire springtime flowers along the Azalea & Spring Flower Trail , in which you’ll find azaleas, tulips, wisteria, dogwood and more. The Texas Rose Festival , which takes place every fall, is also spectacular. Meanwhile, the 14-acre Tyler Rose Garden is open year-round and boasts over 200 varieties of roses. Beyond the blooms, Tyler boasts a great shopping scene (especially for antique lovers!), a vibrant local arts scene and a namesake state park with a 64-acre lake and 13 miles of hiking and biking trails. Culinary connoisseurs will also love it here: Eclectic food and drink options also abound, from locally roasted brews at Big Shot Coffee House to fresh seafood at Black Pearl , to mouthwatering Mexican at Don Juan .

8. South Padre Island, Texas

• Driving Distance: 374 miles (approx. 6 hours) 
• Why We Love It: beaches, nature, seafood, scenery, wildlife
• Where to Stay: Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island (from $135/night), Courtyard by Marriott South Padre Island (from $111/night)

South Padre Island offers 34 miles of coastline and 300-plus days of sunshine, making it one of America’s top beach destinations . Soak up the sun from the sand or splash around in the clear, warm waters. With its prime oceanfront locale, the island is home to some great seafood joints, like Sea Ranch and Daddy’s Seafood & Cajun Kitchen . Once you’ve refueled, try your hand at surfing, snorkeling or fishing—and, if you’re lucky, you may even spot some dolphins. If you want to escape the party vibes, check out SPI Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary for a guided birding tour or a meet-and-greet (from a safe distance) with rescued alligators. There’s also the very special Sea Turtle Inc. , an organization’s dedicated to saving the sea turtle population. There, you can visit some rehabilitating patients and non-releasable residents. For local arts, check out the Sea Turtle Art Trail , which is comprised of 12 sea turtle art sculptures—and the Sandcastle Trail , which boasts around 30 magnificent sand sculptures.

9. San Antonio, Texas

• Driving Distance: 197 miles (approx. three hours)
• Why We Love It: food, culture, arts, history, scenery
• Where to Stay: Hotel Emma (from $495/night), Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk (from $275/night), Omni La Mansión del Rio (from $244/night), At Ease (from $132/night) Southtown Casita (from $66/night)

San Antonio offers something for every traveler, including a fascinating history, iconic eats and plenty of arts and culture. Start your trip with a stroll along the scenic River Walk. Then, make your way to some of the city’s most iconic sites, including The Alamo , the King William Historic District and the Historic Market Square , the latter of which is the largest Mexican market in the country. But above all, this city is about the food. In fact, you may be surprised to learn that San Antonio is one of just two U.S. destinations that’s been designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy . As such, innovative food offerings can be found at nearly every corner of the city, and local favorites include Cured , Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery and Best Quality Daughter . Make sure to get your reservations on early (and often).

10. Austin, Texas

• Driving Distance: 162 miles (approx. 2.5 hours)
• Why We Love It: college town, food, culture, arts, history, scenery, shopping
• Where to Stay: The Line (from $233/night), Lone Star Court (from $233/night), Austin Proper Hotel (from $399/night), Blue Sky Thoughts (from $272/night), Beautiful Luxe 2 Bedroom (from $103/night)

The state’s capital city and home of University of Texas is loaded with cool things to do . What’s more, it’s nearly impossible to be bored in this fun- and food-filled locale. If the weather’s warm, cool off in the Barton Springs Municipal Pool located on the grounds of Zilker Park. Alternatively, paddle along Lady Bird Lake or explore Austin’s vibrant street art on foot (or via e-bike !) Beer enthusiasts will especially love it here: The city and its surrounding area are home to over 20 breweries, including the beloved Lazarus Brewing . For endless shopping opps, head straight to South Congress Ave. Once you’ve shopped the afternoon away, get ready for dinner at trendy Aba for Mediterranean fare or the more laid-back (albeit still delicious!) Gabriela’s for Mexican food and refreshing cocktails. The fun doesn’t stop there, though: After your meal, make your way to Sixth Street for a fun night of bar hopping.

11. Fredericksburg, Texas

• Driving Distance : 237 miles (approx. 4 hours)
• Why We Love It: wine, charm, history, flowers, shopping
• Where to Stay: Hoffman Haus (from $219/night), Luxury Tree House (from $684/night), Blue Bungalow (from $110/night), The Loft on Main St (from $191/night), Ashlee's Farmhaus (from $303/night)

Fredericksburg is famous for two things: Its wineries and German heritage, which dates back centuries. Speaking of the former, travelers can—and should!—embark on a wine-tasting tour through the area’s many wineries . Spring is arguably the best time to visit since it’s when thousands of wildflowers (including bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, poppies and more) begin to bloom. Admire the colorful florals at Wildseed Farms , the nation’s largest working wildflower farm. In town, you’ll find a charming Main Street lined with boutiques, galleries and tasting rooms. Enjoy a scenic hike on Enchanted Rock —which offers panoramic Hill Country Views—before listening to live music at Hondo’s on Main , Hill Top Cafe or Crossroads Saloon & Steakhouse .

12. Corpus Christi, Texas

• Driving Distance: 207 miles (approx. 3 hours)
• Why We Love It: beaches, scenery, outdoor activities, wildlife, nature
• Where to Stay: Omni Corpus Christi Hotel (from $135/night), Charming Guesthouse (from $95/night), Cozy & Stylish Home (from $110/night)

Ideally situated along the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi is an absolute must-visit for sun-seekers. With over 100 miles (!) of sandy shoreline, the destination is sure to delight beach bums of all ages. Whether you prefer to lounge out on the sand or head into the warm waters for a refreshing soak, this oceanfront oasis is beloved for good reason. Travelers can also sign up for a surfing lesson , go fishing, get paddling , try a floating yoga class or embark on an uber-romantic oceanfront horseback ride . Among the city’s most famous attractions is the awe-inspiring Padre Island National Seashore, which offers 66 miles of unspoiled coastline, where you might just spot some wildlife. If you need a break from the beach (though, TBH, why would you?), consider visiting the waterfront Texas State Aquarium or step back in time with a visit to the USS Lexington .

13. Galveston, Texas

• Driving Distance: 51 miles (approx. one hour)
• Why We Love It: under 1-hr, wildlife, beaches, scenery, family-friendly attractions
• Where to Stay: The Tremont House (from $209/night), Little Gem (from $128/night), Beachfront Vacation Home (from $155/night)

You don’t need to travel too far from Houston to enjoy an epic beach getaway—just drive an hour south to Galveston! This island city is best known for its sunny weather and pristine beaches. Between dips in the ocean, travelers can partake in water sports like kayaking or fishing; if they’re lucky, they may also be able to spot dolphins, too. At ​​Galveston Island State Park, visitors can enjoy 2,000 scenic acres of beaches, dunes, coastal prairie, wetlands and so much more. Animal lovers can check out the family-friendly Moody Gardens, which is home to creatures like penguins, sharks and monkeys, to name a few. Finally, no trip to Galveston is complete without a stroll through The Historic Strand District or a visit to the nostalgia-inducing Pleasure Pier , an amusement park that boasts plenty of rides, games, shops and entertainment.

14. New Braunfels, Texas

• Driving Distance: 175 miles (approx. 3 hours)
• Why We Love It: adventure, charm, scenery, family-friendly attractions, waterparks
• Where to Stay: The Resort at Schlitterbahn (from $198/night), The NB White Haus (from $163/night), Dean's Den (from $137/night)

Located near San Antonio, the riverfront city of New Braunfels is chock-full of charm and natural beauty. Unwind with a picnic in Landa or Cypress Bend Parks before tubing or paddling down the Comal River. Adventure enthusiasts should certainly check out the underground limestone caves at the Natural Bridge Caverns or Schlitterbahn , one of the country’s best water parks . Thanks to its riverfront location, tubing is also popular here. And if getting your hair wet isn’t your think, head to town to explore the Gruene Historic District’s 1800s-era architecture,  plus an array of great shops and restaurants such as Gristmill (the chops here are *chef’s kiss* ) and Mozie’s (don’t miss the burgers). Cheer to an excellent trip with a beer along the Hill Country Craft Beer Trail .

15. Arlington, Texas

• Driving Distance: 258 miles (approx. 4 hours)
• Why We Love It: entertainment, family-friendly attractions, sports, museums
• Where to Stay: Live! by Loews - Arlington, Texas (from $191/night), Kasa (from $79/night), Cozy Townhome (from $108/night), Sophisticated Pecan (from $121/night)

Arlington is best known as the home of the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers (AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field are both located here), but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Beyond football and baseball, theme parks Six Flags Over Texas & Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. Alternatively, get out and explore the outdoors at the 1,3000-acre River Legacy Parks, which offers miles of hiking and biking trails. Here, you’ll also find the River Legacy Living Science Center, which houses aquariums, terrariums and interactive exhibits for the whole family. The museums here are equally impressive —albeit a bit quirky!—like the International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame and the National Medal of Honor Museum. Not only is Downtown Arlington a hub for arts and culture, but it’s also where you’ll find some of the city’s best shopping and dining.

The 6 Most Charming Small Towns in Texas

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These Summer Road Trips from Houston Take 5 Hours Tops

By Geneva Diaz May 25, 2023

Image: Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock.com

“Are we there yet?” It’s a common groan on any long drive, and on a typical weekend , it’s best not to spend all your free time in the car. But if you have extra days to spare this summer, a healthy five-hour drive is a piece of cake in Texas time.

Texas borders four US states and four Mexican states, so there’s no limit of places to go. Whether grabbing your passport, crossing state lines, or staying within Texas, choose from these four summer road trips and follow our guide for where to eat, play, and stay.

Pair a cup of au lait with a beignet at Cafe du Monde for breakfast.

Image: Andriy Blokhin/Shutterstock.com

Houston to New Orleans 

Eat When it comes to food and drink, be spontaneous—it’s the NOLA way. Sip on the most popular drink in town at Pat O’Brien’s, a sweet red rum Hurricane served with cherries. Don’t forget to try a frozen drink from the drive-through daiquiri stands sprinkled across town and in the French Market, where you can also shop for souvenirs. The food in New Orleans stretches from Paris to Port-au-Prince and from Cádiz to the Congo. Pair a cup of au lait with a beignet at Cafe du Monde for breakfast, order a fried oyster po’boy at Parkway for lunch, and indulge in the Creole redfish court-bouillon at Gris-Gris for dinner.

Play Because you can never see everything in one trip, the best way to tour the Crescent City is to prioritize. Looking to learn about the city's architecture and complex history? Head to the Historic New Orleans Collection in the French Quarter for a free and accessible self-guided tour. Want to know more about Mardi Gras? Feast your eyes on elaborate masks and costumes at the Backstreet Cultural Museum in the Tremé neighborhood. And what’s up with the city’s obsession with death? Find out at the Museum of Death, also in the French Quarter.

Stay The key is to find a place with personality that’s close to the French Quarter but not directly in it, to avoid the noise. The nearby Warehouse District or the Lower Garden District are great alternatives during the summer months.

Summer happenings: Essence Festival (June 29–July 3), Bastille Day Fête (July 14), Tales of the Cocktail (July 23–July 28)

Canopy Walk at the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge.

Image: Wildnerdpix/Shutterstock.com

Houston to McAllen, Texas

Eat The border town of McAllen has many influences from all along the Rio Grande Valley and Mexico. It’s celebrated for world-class citrus and produce (the best grapefruit of your life awaits you at the local farmers market), but the trip wouldn’t be complete without going to Palenque Grill for its puntas de filete al albañil, sirloin beef tips in a spicy sauce. For a quick bite, the McAllen Food Park has a plethora of local options, and for dinner, make a reservation at the Patio on Guerra. End your evening bar hopping along 17th Street, an entertainment district known for its nightlife scene—think Austin’s famous Sixth Street, but smaller.

Play McAllen has an acclaimed birding scene. Visit the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, which harbors some of the most diverse birdlife in the world, to see hook-billed kites, gray hawks, chachalacas, and great kiskadees. At Quinta Mazatlan, a 1935 Spanish Revival country estate located downtown, take a tour through the 15-acre Tamaulipan thornscrub forest and stroll through the gardens to see the most colorful birds.

The city also boasts several art museums and galleries, including the International Museum of Art and Science dedicated to Latin American art, the Spanish Colonial Nuevo Santander Gallery, and the new Art Village on Main. For shopping, check out downtown’s small boutiques, or head to La Plaza Mall or the newest shopping and entertainment complex, Palms Crossing.

Stay Downtown McAllen is the best place to stay for its central location. If you want to immerse yourself in Spanish architecture, reserve a room at the Casa De Palmas, which features a pool, restaurant, and gym, and is located just two blocks down from the entertainment district.

Summer happenings: MXLAN (July 27–31)

National Soccer Hall of Fame located in Toyota Stadium in Frisco.

Image: Dorti/Shutterstock.com

Houston to Frisco, Texas

Eat Visitors to Frisco will consider this a hidden gem, but locals know that if you want a solid breakfast any time of day, you go to the Depot Cafe. Try the buttery biscuits, huevos rancheros, or the extensive vegan menu. For lunch, visit TruFire Kitchen & Bar, a Mediterranean-American restaurant that has the best garlicky noodles and pizza in the area. Bottled in Bond Cocktail Parlour & Kitchen is next door, but if you already ate, head to the speakeasy-style bar adjacent to the restaurant for a nightcap and live music.

Play Whether you’re into football, golf, soccer, or baseball, Frisco shines on all fronts. Lounge in the Lazy River at Riders Field while catching a baseball game, or tour the Dallas Cowboys headquarters and watch them practice at the Star. If you’re feeling fancy, head to the new Omni PGA Frisco Resort for a game of golf at the 10-hole short course or one of two championship 18-hole courses. For a more casual golf experience, there’s the Omni Ice House, a modern ranch-style venue with six live hitting bays and great views of the green.

Tour the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Toyota Stadium, which uses facial recognition (and a survey you fill out before touring) to deliver a one-of-a-kind experience. Build your own soccer team, create a scarf to take home, and design an MLS kit. For the young at heart, visit the National Videogame Museum, where you can view gaming relics of the past and play the games that once kept you up all night ( Super Mario Bros ., anyone?) in the ’80s-style arcade.

Stay The Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa has eight luxurious treatment rooms and guest-only golf courses (also part of the Stonebriar Country Club, which has its own members). For those who consider shopping a serious sport, the Hyatt Regency Frisco-Dallas is attached to the Stonebriar Centre mall. If you’re an aspiring Jon Rahm, be one of the first to stay at the brand-new Omni PGA Frisco Resort and experience the ultimate golf trip.

Summer happenings: Mustang Sally Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show (June 4), Frisco Freedom Fest (July 4)

From Eagle Pass, cross the Mexican border into the charming town of Piedras Negras, Coahuila.

Image: Billy Hathorn/CC/Wikimedia

Houston to Piedras Negras, Mexico

Eat From Eagle Pass, cross the Mexican border into the charming town of Piedras Negras, Coahuila. Try one of the state’s specialties known as a discada (also sometimes called a chatarra ), which features a meaty mixture of chorizo, venison, beef, tomato, and onion cooked on a comal. The city also claims the invention of the nacho. That’s right: Before it became a Tex-Mex staple, the tortilla chips and melted cheese combo was born in the 1940s in this Mexican town.

Play As Coahuila’s fifth-biggest city, and a popular place for expats, Piedras Negras has many attractions. Upon crossing the Mexico border onto Bridge 1, you’ll come across the Museo De La Frontera Norte (Northern Border Museum) and the Museo Del Niño (The Children’s Museum). Tour old buildings in the Downtown Historic Center like Antiguo Hotel del Ferrocarril and Zaragoza Market.

Plaza de las Culturas is a bustling city square that contains smaller-scale replicas of famous archaeological sites in the country, such as the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the 365 Niches, and the Pyramid El Castillo. The plaza also has many colorful murals and sculptures, an auditorium, a musical fountain, a cultural building, a planetarium, and shops to enjoy, all within walking distance of each other.

Stay Whether you want to stay close to the border or drive deeper into the city, there are many budget-friendly hotels to choose from. Hampton Inn by Hilton Piedras Negras is a top-rated hotel in the area that’s walking distance from some of the main attractions like the Sanctuary of Guadalupe and Gran Plaza.

Summer happenings: Market Day at the Lake in Eagle Pass (June 3), Dog Days of Summer Festival in Eagle Pass (August 12)

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

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

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

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

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

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Texas Hill Country

Distance from Houston : 3 hours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Best credit cards for eating out

Bolivar Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: How to find the perfect home rental

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

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

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

San Antonio

Distance: 3 hours west on I-10

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

7 Must-Experience Road Trips from Houston, Texas

By Shreya Suresh Kumar

Houston may be known as a bustling metropolis, but it is also an excellent starting point for an epic road trip with your family. From charming coastal towns to picturesque countryside, there are many scenic wonders surrounding it. You can indulge in local flavors and marvel at the breathtaking landscapes. So buckle up as we bring to you the 7 best road trips from Houston. A road trip with family from this place will leave you with lasting memories.

Take a refreshing road trip along the Gulf of Mexico from Houston to escape city life. Start your journey in Galveston and experience the breathtaking historic architecture and the laid-back beach vibe. Seafood enthusiasts will also find this place to be a haven. As you continue to drive along the Gulf Coast, you can revel in the tranquility of quaint coastal towns like Rockport. You can soak up the sun on pristine beaches, go fishing, or even glimpse playful dolphins.

New Orleans

For a taste of Southern charm and vibrant nightlife, your next road- trip will take you on a five-hour drive east to the vibrant city of New Orleans , Louisiana. You can sample delicious Creole cuisine and groove to the soulful jazz melodies in the French Quarter. Don’t forget to immerse yourself in the world-renowned Mardi Gras festivities. New Orleans offers a unique blend of history, music, and culinary delights that will leave you spellbound. Perfect, isn’t it?

San Antonio

Are you searching for a mix of historical, cultural, and adventurous experiences? Look no further than the road trip to San Antonio. Just a few hours’ drive from Houston, you’ll arrive at the bustling city steeped in Texan charm. Visit the iconic Alamo, stroll along the famous River Walk, and savor mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine. For the thrill-seekers, a visit to Six Flags Fiesta Texas or a relaxing boat ride at the Natural Bridge Caverns will surely get your adrenaline pumping.

Big Bend National Park

If you crave vast wilderness and stunning landscapes, a road trip to Big Bend National Park is necessary. As you journey west from Houston, the flat plains gradually transform into rugged mountains and deep canyons. Marvel at the majestic Rio Grande, hike through stunning desert trails and soak in the beauty of the bright starry skies. Don’t forget to visit the historic Terlingua Ghost Town and treat yourself to some mouthwatering Texas barbecue along the way! This is one road trip from Houston that you won’t regret.

Heading north for our second road trip, we find ourselves in Austin, the state capital and live music epicenter. Just a three-hour drive from Houston, Austin is a vibrant city known for its thriving music scene, cultural diversity, and mouthwatering culinary experiences. Enjoy the music in the streets, try the tasty food from trucks, and swim in the cool Barton Springs Pool. Get ready to witness the undeniable charm of the “Live Music Capital of the World”!

Galveston Island

Just an hour away lies the beautiful Galveston Island, where sun, sand, and sea await your family. As you drive across the gorgeous causeway, you will be welcomed by pristine beaches, historic charm, and a vibrant, full-of-life coastal community. Explore the iconic Pleasure Pier and delve into the island’s rich history at the Moody Mansion. For food enthusiasts in the family, there is a variety of fresh seafood available at local eateries. With so many attractions and activities, Galveston Island is a must-visit destination for a road trip from Houston.

Texas Hill Country

Immerse yourself in the splendor of Texas Hill Country on a breathtaking road trip that showcases rolling hills and quaint small towns. Take a dip in the refreshing waters of the stunning Hamilton Pool Preserve or sample award-winning wines in the vineyards of the Fredericksburg Wine Road 290. You can also indulge in mouthwatering barbecue at the legendary Salt Lick BBQ. As you drive through scenic routes, you’ll definitely fall in love with the rolling hills and incredible vistas of Texas Hill Country.

Houston, Texas, proves to be an excellent starting point for exploring the wonders that surround it. Whether you’re seeking coastal beauty, charming small towns, or untamed wilderness, the top 7 road trips from Houston will undoubtedly satisfy your wanderlust. So, fuel up your car, hit the road to create unforgettable memories, and embark on an epic adventure you’ll treasure forever. Happy road-tripping!

Read to know The 10 Best Family-Friendly Activities in Houston .

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Road trip guide from houston.

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

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Family friendly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Road Trips from Houston

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Near Rice University

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Near Houston Zoo

Here is the list of 23 Road Trips from Houston

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

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

3. Chisos Mountains

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

4. Rio Frio

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

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5. Lost Maples

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

6. Barton Springs

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

7. Wimberly

A relatively newer and small city, Wimberly was established recently in 2000. The city is located at Blanco River and Cypress creek's confluence and thus offers some of the most natural and scenic views to its visitors of the hills and rivers. The city also has its own Wimberly valley that allows the visitors to go camping and hiking. Fishing is also a common activity in the region. Owing to its hilly locations, the city is most attracted by adventurous and outdoor people who love exploring nature and its wonders. Jacob’s well swimming hole is also a famous attraction within the city. Distance from Houston: 182 miles

Named after Henry B Shiner, the city of Shiner is located in the Lavaca County of Texas. It is known that Henry B SHiner had given away 250 acres of land to the city, intending to create a railroad that increases the city's connectivity and productivity. The city is home to a minimal number of people and households, with fewer schools and other essentials than Texas's other cities. Shiner, although it is a developing and growing city.  Distance from Houston: 120 miles

9. New Orleans

Known for its Creole cuisine, unique dialect, and world-famous music, the city of New Orleans is located in Louisiana's heart. The diverse city of New Orleans is also known for its melting pot of African, American, and French cultures. The city also serves one of the best cuisines in its small, vintage, and homely cafes and restaurants. The Sazerac drink in New Orleans is the city's specialty; invented in early 1800, the drink instantly became a hit and is now the official drink of New Orleans. In addition to this, the city is also known for its French and American architecture and buildings prevalent in almost all the small lanes and corners of the city. Distance from Houston: 377 miles

10. Big Bend National Park

Established in 1916, the Big Bend National Park is a 3,242 km² natural forest reserve. With more than 318 million visits every year, the national park is involved in protecting and preserving over 1200 species of plants, 450 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, and 75 species of animals. Big Bend also has many archeological sites of dinosaur bones as well as volcanic dikes. These features make the state park extremely useful for research and development. The Big Bend National Park's primary activities for visitors include camping, birdwatching, and backpacking trails. Another feature of the park is its certification as a dark sky park. It is one of the few parks where the stars, moon, and even the milky way galaxy is clearly visible at night. Address: Big Bend National Park, TX, United States Activities:  The night sky, camping, bird watching Distance from Houston: 563 miles

11. Caddo Lake

Caddo Lake is a 26,810-acre lake and wetland located on the border of Texas and Louisiana. It is one of the largest lakes in the Southern part of the United States. Caddo Lake is home to several alligators, making it different from any other lake in the city. Other animals that can be spotted there include owls, snakes, frogs, bobcats, and ferrets, among many others. There is also an alligator park where visitors can feed alligators and understand their habitats. Fishing and camping are also popular adventure activities around the lake. 46 campsites around the lake are built for visitors for a fun-filled stay at the park, in addition to the ranger programs and rental paddle boats. Address : Harrison County, Texas Activities:  fishing, hiking, camping Distance from Houston: 247 miles

12. Marshall

A city known for its revolutionary history, Marshall is filled with several historical sites and buildings, all telling a story. The area was initially used for cotton plantations, which later became a developed area, although it is yet developing in several ways. The city is also known for its well-established railroad that increases its connectivity throughout the city as well as the state. Distance from Houston: 219 miles

13. Garner State Park

Located 287.5 miles away from the city of Houston the Garner State Park is 1774 acres of pure scenic beauty, with hills, mountains, and rivers. The Garner State Park is also home to the Frio Rio river, where visitors can swim, rent paddle boats also go fishing. Hiking, trekking, and camping are activities that are thoroughly enjoyed by all the visitors. Along with these popular activities, visitors can also picnic on the grass, canoe, and fish in the river, study nature, play mini-golf and go mountain biking in the premises of the state park. In addition to these exciting and adventurous activities, one can also buy souvenirs as a memory of this panoramic place. Address: 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838 Open Hours: 8am-10pm Activites: Hiking, camping Entry Fee: USD 8 Distance from Houston: 285.7 miles

14. Sam Houston National Forest

Located 50 miles north of Houston, the Sam Houston National Forest is one of the four largest natural habitats of Texas. The forest covers an area of more than 163,037 acres of land and is home to a variety of species of birds, animals, and trees. Hiking is an exciting and popular activity in the Forest Reserve. The region has a 128-mile long trail called the lone star train that runs through the heart of the forest. Home to the 3000-acre lake where the visitors can enjoy fishing and boating, the forest reserve also allows camping within the region with more than 48 camping sites that have an electricity supply. The forest is a very scenic location where people can enjoy their life outside the busy city life. Address: 394 FM 1375 West, New Waverly, TX 77358, United States Activities: Hiking, Camping, Bird watching Distance from Houston: 50 miles

15. Huntsville

Located in the Appalachian range of Alabama, Huntsville is also known as the city of Rockets. The city is home to the U.S Space and Rocket center, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, as well as the United States Aviation and Missile Command, making it one of the most technologically developed cities in Texas. Built with a strong infrastructure, the city of Huntsville also has a revolutionary history of civil wars, world wars, and depressions. With this rich and flourishing history, the city is now home to developing technology with its space centers and research institutions. Address: Morgan County, Alabama Time from Houston: 2 hours by flight

16. Brenham

Considered as the Texan’s Texas, Brenham is the city where one can feel the real authenticity of Texas and its lifestyle. The city brings out its culture, lifestyle and festivals in a pure and orthodox manner showcasing the roots of the state. There are many activities in Brenham that make it a very adventurous and exciting city to visit. Brenham holds many annual events and festivals that make the city very happening and lively. Some of the famous festivals include the yearly German Heritage Fest and the Texas rangers day. Other attractions include museums and clubs that make the place adventurous and informative. Distance from Houston: 76 miles

17. Texas City

A metropolitan city located in the heart of Galveston County is Texas City, known for its Magical WInter lights and clear lake. Texas city is one of the largest cities in the state and is also home to one of the most important Texas ports. The city is well developed and is famous for its beautiful sunsets and sunrises. Being an environmentally friendly city, they have built around 40 conservational parks in Texas city. Texas City also houses a famous aquatic center and its very own museum which showcases the events of World War 2 and how it impacted the city in particular. Other activities one can come across in the town include fishing. Experienced fishers and water enthusiasts also visit Texas City Dike, the largest human-made pier in the world stretching close to 5.3 miles. Address:  Galveston County, Texas Activities:  Fishing Distance from Houston:  45.9 miles

18. College Station

A city in Brazos County, Texas, College Station is known for being home to the world-famous Texas A&M University. The research university today has the highest student population in the country. In addition to this, they also have several other business gardens, a well built and connected transportation system throughout the city. The city also has airports and railroads to increase the connectivity of the place. Address: Brazos County, Texas Distance from Houston: 87 miles

19. Bolivar Peninsula

Bolivar Peninsula is a census-designated place located in the Galveston County of Texas. The peninsula is a 27 mile stretch of land that is filled with exciting activities and adventurous events. These activities include birdwatching, a tour of the Travis fort and the Bolivar lighthouse, and much more. Filled with cultural and historical monuments as well, the region is also covered with thousands of different species of birds. There are specific birding centers as well where one can go bird watching. The area is also filled with elegant restaurants and bars so that people can enjoy the beautiful sunset along with delicious food. Address:  Galveston County, Texas Activities:  Bird watching, historical monuments Distance from Houston:  72 miles

20. Texas Hill Country

Forming the southern part of the Edwards Plateau, located between south and central Texas, is the Texas Hill country. The region is known for its topography of soluble rocks as well as the hills filled with minerals like granite and limestone. The mountains, hills, vegetation and rivers build up together to make the region more beautiful and scenic as a whole. The Texas Hill Country has several places to walk, hike and trek and enjoy the freshness of the serine beauty and extensive vegetation. It is one of the most peaceful and calming atmospheres which is spread throughout the ranges of mountains and valleys—the area dominated with the Spanish and German influence of food stalls, beer and architecture. Activites: Hiking, trekking, camping Distance from Houston:  250 miles

21. New Braunfels

New Braunfels is placed in the middle of the crossroads of the crystal clear Comal and the overpopulated city of Guadalupe. The city is majorly known for its widely spotted German and Texas architecture, in most of the heritage buildings around the city. The winter months here often attract visitors to cool rivers and adventurous water parks. New Braunfels has a humid and subtropical climate which is similar to most of its surroundings. The weather permits the people to shop at various renowned locations as well as smaller local stores. The town also holds the famous Wurstfest, a German-style sausage festival every November, and another festival in December highlighting the heritage buildings in Lockhart. Distance: 174.6 miles

22. Lockhart

Also known as the barbeque capital of Texas, Lockhart is loved by the visitors for the wide range of delicious meats that go into making the world-famous barbeques. Here, one is more likely to find budding musicians and small brewers who live at Lockhart to escape the high prices and hectic city life of the metropolitan cities. The Caldwell courthouse and jailhouse are major attractions in the city with a unique and impactful history. The Downtown square is also the right place for people to relax, sit, and spend time together. Lockhart also is home to a bunch of art galleries that have the work of growing artists, to empower and highlight their talent. Distance: 140 miles

23. San Marcos

A charming college town, SanMarcos is located amid the metropolitan cities of San Antonio and Austin. Home to the largest outlet mall in the country, San Marcos is also known for its historic downtown square and unique water parks. Visitors get a chance to experience out of the world things like a unicycle football match and an uphill waterfall at the park. In addition to this, San Marcos allows its visitors to take a glass-bottom tour in the Spring Lake and go paddle boating during the nights. The Lyndon Baines Johnson Museum and the World War 2 aircraft museum are also places that add value to the small town of San Marcos. Distance: 165 miles

These are a few road trips that one can take from the city of Houston. These destinations are ideal for a getaway from the hustle of Houston. We hope you like it.

This post was published by Priyal Jhaveri

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50 Breathtaking Day Trips From Houston

Houston’s unique geographical location offers diverse day trip options for Houstonians. Among the most popular options are excursions to Galveston Island, known for its sandy beaches and historic attractions like the Strand Historic District. Another favorite is Space Center Houston, offering an immersive space exploration experience.

The cultural hub of San Antonio with its historic sites, wildlife adventures in the Brazos Bend State Park, and the culinary delights in nearby cities like Austin roundup the myriad of exciting destinations within a short drive of the vibrant city of Houston.

For those seeking hidden gems, the serene Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge provides a peaceful escape into nature. The charming town of Brenham, with its bluebonnet-filled fields, is an ideal springtime retreat. Antique enthusiasts can explore the quaint shops in Round Top, while wine lovers can savor tastings in the Texas Hill Country.

However, what most others won’t tell you is that there is a wealth of destinations beyond these. Ever heard of Lake Houston Wilderness Park and Umbrella Alley in Baytown? Take a trip to the top of the San Jacinto Monument with us! Houstonians have the privilege of experiencing a rich tapestry of landscapes and activities just a stone’s throw away – and you’re in the perfect place to discover them all!

Also Read: 18 Best weekend Getaways from Houston, Texas

Houston's Best Day Trip Destinations

Best Houston Suburbs to explore on day trips

Houston is spread really far and white.

That means many of its suburbs also make perfect day trips from Houston, TX.

You can stay within the city and still plan a day trip to Katy or Woodlands. 

Related Posts: Best Things to do in Houston One Day in Houston Itinerary 20 Awesome Christmas Events in Houston

The Woodlands

The Woodlands is one of Houston’s most famous suburbs. 

Located north of the city, it is famous for its shopping, dining, and outdoor attractions.

People watch while the kids play at Market Street or take the free Town Center Trolley to Waterway Square. 

The Waterway Square is our favorite area.

Here you will find the beautiful water fountain.

It looks even more amazing when lit up at night. You can also take a cruise on the Waterway.

You can also go kayaking on Lake Woodlands, making this one of the popular day trips from Houston for nature lovers.

Distance – 40 mins

Kemah Boardwalk

The Kemah Boardwalk is one of the most fun day trips from Houston that you can plan for the whole family.

This amusement park has a delightful retro vibe.

Here you will find a variety of rides including a ferris wheel, roller coaster, and carousel.

You can purchase an all day pass which lets the kids enjoy unlimited rides on the boardwalk. 

The boardwalk also has many great restaurants and it is perfect for people watching.

Our kids enjoy the water views and seeing the boats in the inlet.

The sunsets on the Gulf of Mexico are also very beautiful on the boardwalk.

Also the boardwalk looks very pretty at night with the neon signs and exciting atmosphere.

We definitely recommend staying here until it’s dark. 

Distance – 1 hour

Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas

Katy is one of the oldest and most popular suburbs in Houston.

The area has plenty of historical, cultural, and urban attractions for families.

The Katy Heritage Society  Railroad Museum is a must for train loving kids.

They can see the historic depot and a vintage caboose.  

The Katy Mills Mall is an exciting destination for shopping.

Here you will find all the major brands as well as entertainment such as movies and arcade games.

For outdoor lovers, hike the mile long Mary Jo Peckham trail or go fishing at the lake. 

Distance – 35 mins

Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston is a must-visit when in the area.

Here you can learn all about human initiatives in outer space exploration.

This is a fascinating place to visit for science nerds and geeks.

We enjoy spending hours here looking at the exhibits such as astronaut uniforms, moon rocks, and debris from outer space . 

You can watch a space movie or take the tram tours to see the Saturn V Rocket, Astronaut Training Center, and Mission Control Room.

Spending a day at the Johnson Space Center NASA is definitely one of our favorite day trips from Houston. 

Clear Lake City

While Clear Lake City is home to Kemah Boardwalk and Space Center Houston, there are many other things to do in this exciting suburb.

You can go hiking at the Armand Bayou Nature Center.

You will be able to spot a variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles in the park.

The Lone Star flight Museum is also based here and is home to over 40 vintage aircrafts and aviation artifacts. 

Conroe is based around Lake Conroe and naturally, this area is great for different kinds of water sports.

You can go bass fishing or just rent a boat to spend a day on the water.

The Margaritaville Resort is based here and makes a great place to stay, if you’re looking for something more than a day trip.

The city also has many parks and a historic downtown district and that is great for a quick stroll. 

Distance – 50 mins

Sugar Land is one of our favorite day trips from the Houston area where you can visit museums and enjoy a cultural experience away from Houston’s busy downtown Museum District.

Here you can visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science Sugar Land campus.

Or let the kids enjoy at Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center.

The area also has many hiking trails and the beautiful Oyster Creek Park. 

Rosenberg and Richmond

Rosenberg is a small town located southwest of Houston.

The main attraction here is the Rosenberg Historic Downtown District.

Here you will find striking Western style buildings.

Most of them have been restored to their original glory and house boutiques, cafes, and antique stores. 

Rosenberg is also home to many other attractions such as the Fort Bend Museum,

where you can learn about the first colony established in the area in the 1820s…..

…..and the George Ranch historical park, a living history park in Richmond.

Brazos Bend State Park is also located here and is great to observe the night sky at the George observatory or go hiking and spot alligators. 

Spring was once famous for the railroad.

Since then, the suburb has grown by leaps and bounds yet Old Town Spring has retained the historic charm to attract visitors.

This historic part of the city has Victorian style buildings and is charming to take a walk.

You can spend the day eating delicious food at restaurants and cafes, sipping on drinks, and shopping at boutique stores. 

A must visit Spring attraction is the Houston Texas Temple.

Mercer Botanic Gardens are also located in spring.

Spring is also home to amazing parks, nature trails, and has lots of hiking.

During the holiday season, you will find some of Houston’s most fabulously decorated homes here.

This is the perfect day trip from Houston for those living within downtown area. 

Distance – 30 mins

Missouri City and Stafford

The Missouri City – Stafford area is home to one of Houston’s most Instagrammable spots, BAPS Shri. Swaminarayan Temple.

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple has excellent architecture and is a great place to admire the intricate carvings on its facade.

The temple is stunning and just amazing to visit.

The suburbs also have great parks where you can enjoy the natural views and local flora and fauna including the Cullinan Park and Kitty Hollow Park. 

Best Beach Day Trip from Houston

Houston is located in the Gulf Coast region of Texas.

That means it is pretty close to some of the best beaches in the Lone Star State .

So pack your bags with a swimsuit, sunglasses, and sunscreen and put a beach chair in the trunk.

Let’s have a fun day at the beach! 

Also Read: Best Beaches near Houston for a Beach Vacation

When you think about a day trip from Houston, Galveston is the first destination that comes to most people’s minds.

This island city is the perfect fun day trip.

If you want to relax on the sand and swim in the water, then visit either Stuart Beach or East Beach. 

If you love amusement rides, then visit Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.

Or spend the day at Moody Gardens.

Galveston has just about something for everybody and is one of the best beach towns in Texas . 

Distance – 55 mins

Galveston Island State Park

If you prefer undeveloped and unspoiled beaches over the beach umbrellas and beach crowds, then head to Galveston Island State Park.

Here you will likely have the beach to yourself. 

You can spend a relaxing day beachcombing for sea glass and seashells or go on hiking trails or bird watch on the bayside.

You can also build a sand castle or just splash in the ocean.

This natural paradise is the perfect antidote to Houston’s busy city life. 

Distance – 1 hr 5 mins

Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach located near Freeport, Texas in Brazoria County is an amazing beach day trip from Houston.

This is one of the cleanest beaches on the Gulf Coast of Texas.

It is much quieter and calmer than Galveston beaches and is a great alternative. 

We love driving to the beach along the scenic Bluewater Highway Trail.

Once there, you can play on the beach, swim, walk on the jetty, or go fishing at the Surfside Jetty County Park.

The jetty is very long and amazing for a romantic sunset stroll.

You can set up the grill, have a picnic, and watch the boats come into the port. 

Bolivar Peninsula and Crystal Beach

Bolivar Peninsula is one of the most exciting day trips from Houston for kids because of the Galveston-Bolivar ferry.

Once on the peninsula, you can drive or set up camp anywhere along the 27 miles of coastline. 

One of the most popular beaches here is Crystal Beach.

Along with the soft, powdery sand, you will also find several restaurants, shopping, and more here.

There are many other things to do on the Bolivar Peninsula including the lighthouse, birding, and the historic Fort Travis. 

Distance – 1 hr 30 mins

Sea Rim State Park

Sea Rim State Park located in Port Arthur is one of the hidden gems near Houston.

This pristine state park has about 5 miles of beach frontage and hardly any visitors. 

You can hike the Gambusia Nature Trail over the marshlands and spot lots of wildlife.

Or just spend a day on the beach and hunt for seashells.

The state park has excellent kayaking trails too. 

Distance – 1 hr 45 mins

La Porte 

Sylvan Beach Park in La Porte is an amazing beach day trip from Houston.

The beach and the water here is really clean and great for swimming.

The park also has one of the longest fishing piers in Texas.

The park is fun for the entire family as there is a play area right next to the beach. 

Besides the beach, La Porte has many other attractions such as the San Jacinto Monument and Museum, The La Porte Bay Area Heritage Museum, and the Governor Ross Sterling Mansion. 

Also Read: Houston to South Padre Island Road trip

Best Hiking and Birding Day Trips from Houston for nature lovers

Houston is also located close to many natural areas and outdoor attractions.

These are excellent for activities such as hiking, biking, birding, wildlife watching, and even camping if you want to extend your day trip. 

Here are some of the best day trips in Houston for outdoor lovers. 

Sam Houston National Forest

Sam Houston National Forest is one of the four national forests in Texas .

This national forest is the one located closest to Houston and is just 50 miles north of the city. 

The forest has multiple recreation areas including those located along Lake Conroe.

It is a popular recreation ground for those interested in hiking, camping, hunting, and wildlife watching. Sam Houston National Forest has lots of opportunities for water sports.

You can go fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the lakes on the lakes. 

The popular Lone Star Hiking Trail passes through the National Forest and is great for both short day hikes or multi day backpacking. 

Brazos Bend State Park

Brazos Bend State Park is a favorite with our kids for alligator spotting.

In fact, this is one of the best places near Houston to see alligators in the wild.

The park is located just 45 miles south of downtown and has plenty of hiking and biking trails. 

We especially love the boardwalk accessible Creekfield Lake Nature Trail.

The trail is just half a mile long and has wonderful views of the wetlands and its wildlife.

If you’re looking for more than a day trip then you can also camp within the park. 

The most exciting feature of the State Park is the George Observatory.

The observatory is located within the park and managed by the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

It is open to the public on Saturday nights.

Here you can enjoy stargazing at the night sky through the observatory’s telescopes. 

Angelina National Forest

Angelina National Forest, located in the Piney Woods region of Texas, makes a great outdoor day trip from Houston. 

Popular activities here include boating and fishing on the Sam Rayburn Reservoir, boarding and wildlife watching, hiking, biking, and scenic drives. 

The forest also makes a great fall day trip from Houston.

You can see splashes of vivid and vibrant fall colors amidst the dense forests of evergreen pine trees. 

Distance – 2 hrs 10 mins

Davy Crockett National Forest

This one is for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts!

Davy Crockett National Forest located north of Houston is named after the legendary frontier pioneer.

This amazing outdoor recreation and wildlife habitat has many hiking trails that go through its landscape of hardwood trees, evergreen pine forests. 

The forest is home to endangered birds and wildlife.

As such, birding and wildlife watching are very popular.

The Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is popular for water activities such as swimming, paddling, canoeing, boating, and fishing. 

Distance – 2 hrs

Sabine National Forest

Sabine National Forest is located east of Houston near the Texas Louisiana border.

The outdoor recreation opportunities in this national forest are dominated by the water sports on Toledo Bend Reservoir.

This massive reservoir is said to be one of the largest lakes in Texas. 

Visitors can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, canoeing, paddling, swimming, and even camping by the water.

The forest has numerous hiking and mountain biking trails as well as dedicated horseback trails.

The forest also offers excellent wildlife viewing and is a great fun day trip for the entire family. 

Distance – 2 hrs 50 mins

Big Thicket National Preserve

The Big Thicket National Preserve in Southeast Texas is one of the largest forests in the country.

The forest has over 40 miles of hiking trails and is an amazing natural paradise.

Inside the forest you will find creeks, bayous, and a river. 

On the hikes you can admire the natural ecosystem and see carnivorous plants such as the pitcher plant and sundew, beautiful bald cypress trees, and towering pines.

Apart from hiking, you can go kayaking or canoeing as well as bird watching in the forest. 

Some of the other popular ways to explore Big Thicket National Preserve include biking and horse riding on the Big Sandy Trail.

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent day trip if you want to spend time in the nature.

The best way to explore this preserve is through scenic drives on the park roads.

This preserve also has several well maintained boardwalks over the marshes and swamps. 

On the trails, you can spot many alligators, songbirds, water birds, and waterfowl.

The refuge also has a butterfly hummingbird garden.

This is an excellent day trip to take the kids and enjoy the outdoors on the Gulf Coast. 

Distance – 1 hr 25 mins

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge located in Freeport is an excellent place for birding and wildlife watching.

It is also a favorite with bikers, hikers, and wildlife photographers.

Hike the Big Slough Wilderness Area boardwalk trail and spot alligators.

Go on the auto driving tour to spot roseate spoonbills and sandhill cranes.

See the exhibits inside the Discovery Center to learn about local wildlife.

Hunting and fishing are also permitted in the reserve.

Best time to visit is during April when you can watch the migrating birds.

Goose Island State Park

Goose Island State Park is located about three and a half hours away from Houston in Rockport, Texas.

The park is most famous for the Big Tree which is one of the largest live oak trees in the country.

The tree is around 35 ft wide and is over centuries old. 

The park is also famous for its nature.

Because of its location on the southern tip of Lamar Peninsula amidst the bays, many bird species and animals call it home.

On a visit you can spot deer, armadillos, rabbits, the endangered whooping cranes, and blue crabs. 

Distance – 2 hrs 45 mins

Mustang Island State Park

Combine a beach day with a drive down the coast and some excellent hiking amongst the sand dunes at Mustang Island State Park.

The park has 5 miles of coastline where you can go beachcombing, swimming, or just relax on the beach.

The island is also excellent for bird watching and has many paddling trails. 

Distance – 3 hrs 36 mins

Best Small Towns to Visit on a Day Trip from Houston

Pack your car and drive west, the Eastern border of the Texas Hill Country and its amazing small towns beckons you.

Or drive north to the small towns in the Piney Woods region. 

Here are some of the best small town day trips from Houston.

Navasota makes an excellent day trip from Houston, especially during spring.

You can explore this charming town, visit Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, and even see the Grimes County Courthouse as well as Fanthorp Inn Historic Site which is just 10 mi away in Anderson . 

We love seeing the historic homes downtown in Washington Ave and Railroad St.

They have amazing architecture and some are even open for interior tours.

The Horlock Art Gallery and History Museum is also a great place to visit. 

Music is also a big attraction in Navasota and the city is must visit for all blues lovers.

Distance – 1 hr 15 mins

Time for some ice-cream!

Brenham is a favorite day trip for most Houston area families for one reason: Blue Bell Creamery!

You can go to the creamery in Brenham to see how the ice cream is being made from the observation platform.

And you can eat as many scoops of ice cream as you want for just $1 per scoop.

Our kids love visiting the Creamery. 

However a day trip to Brenham is not just about ice cream.

Historic Downtown Brenham is a very pretty place to explore and shop.

Here you will find charming architecture and stunning murals.

You can shop for antiques, souvenirs, and more.

Attractions like the Brenham Heritage Museum are worth a visit. 

Apart from Blue Bell and historic downtown, Brenham is also famous for its abundant Texas bluebonnets in the spring.

To see these beauties just drive around the Brenham countryside or visit the Texas Independent Trail through Independence and Chappell Hill. 

Distance – 1 hr 10 mins

College Station

College Station is a great vibrant day trip from Houston.

The city is home to Texas A & M University and has a very youthful vibe.

The University campus is also home to the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

Here you can see a replica of the oval office and also a part of the Berlin Wall. 

Take a stroll through historic downtown Bryan, see the art galleries and museums, and visit Santa’s Wonderland in the holiday season.

Another favorite with our kids is the Aggieland Safari where they can see the wild animals on a drive-through safari and even feed them. 

Baytown , located to the east of Houston, is a great place to visit for art and culture lovers.

There are several types of public arts, sculptures, and murals in downtown Baytown.

The city even holds an annual arts festival every year. 

The most popular attraction of Baytown is definitely the Umbrella Alley.

A canopy of rainbow colored, colorful umbrellas covers this previously unused alley.

Beautiful murals are located on the side walls.

The alley is very beautiful and one of the most Instagrammable places in Texas. 

Baytown also has many other attractions.

Spend a day splashing in the water at Pirates Bay Water Park or take the Lynchburg ferry across the Houston ship channel.

At the Baytown Nature Center, you will find miles of hiking trails in tranquil surroundings.  

Distance – 25 mins

While Texas City is located on the Gulf Coast, it doesn’t have a pretty beach as such.

That’s why we have included it in this list of the best small towns that you can visit on a day trip from Houston.

Our kids love seeing the vintage steam train locomotive in Noble Park. 

If you love shopping, then you will love the Tanger Outlets Houston located in Texas City.

Most renowned brands have a store here.

The Texas City Museum is another great place to visit.

Here you can see lots of historical artifacts including civil war era cannon, model trains, and exhibits related to the 1947 Texas City explosion disaster. 

Of course no trip to Texas City can be complete without visiting the Texas City Dike.

This fishing pier stretches 5.3 miles in Galveston Bay and is the longest artificial fishing pier in the world.

Reload riding down the dike and watch the fishermen and their boats come in.

You can also spot dolphins and enjoy the beach at the end. 

Distance – 45 mins

Rusk is a favorite with Houston area families for one reason: its home to the Texas State Railroad.

The rail depot offers scenic train rides on vintage trains.

There are a variety of themed train rides year-round including the Pumpkin Patch Express and the famous Polar Express during holiday season.

The train rides are an amazing day trip from Houston. 

Other things to do in the Rusk include walking over the Historic Rusk Footbridge, seeing the exhibits narrating the history of the area at the Heritage Center of Cherokee County, and exploring the charming city on foot. 

Distance – 2 hrs 40 mins

The most popular train excursion of the Texas State Railroad will take you to the charming town of Palestine.

Here you can see historic landmarks such as the Texas Jail House, the Railroad Heritage Center, and the Museum of East Texas Culture. 

Anderson County Courthouse is also located in Palestine and is a beautiful and photogenic building.

Palestine also has many parks including Davey Dogwood Park and Reagan Park where you can enjoy nature.

You can easily combine Rusk, Palestine, and the train ride in one day trip. 

During winter, the Palestine Polar Express is our favorite day trips with the kids.

Distance – 2 hrs 30 mins

Beaumont , located to the east of Houston, is an amazing cultural destination.

The most popular attraction here is Spindletop – Gladys City Boomtown Museum.

The museum commemorates the first discovery of oil in Texas at the Spindletop Hill Salt Dome.

Here you can experience life as it was during the time when oil was first discovered in Texas. 

Beaumont has many other cool museums including the Fire Museum of Texas, Clifton Steamboat Museum, Texas Energy Museum, and the Beaumont Children’s Museum.

The beautifully landscaped Beaumont Botanical Gardens are great for nature lovers.

Another cool attraction is Gator Country, where you can view several large alligators. 

New Braunfels

New Braunfels in the Texas Hill Country makes a great day trip from Houston.

The main attraction here is Gruene Historic District and floating in the Comal River.

The famous Gruene Dance Hall is located in the former ghost town. 

The two mile stretch of the Comal River in New Braunfels offers some of the best river tubing in Texas.

The Schlitterbahn Waterpark is also located in New Braunfels and is in great option if you don’t want to float down the river. 

Port Arthur

There are many other things to do in Port Arthur other than the Sea Rim State Park and that’s why we love visiting here on a day trip.

Our favorite is the Museum of the Gulf Coast. Here you can see artifacts ranging from the arts to history and music. 

The Pompeiian Villa is a historic home that is open for tours.

Built in the 1900s, the home is beautiful inside out. Sabine Pass Battleground which is the site of an important civil war era battle is also located in Port Arthur. 

Distance – 1 hr 20 mins

Victoria, Texas is located just under 2 hours from Houston near the Gulf Coast.

It is popular for its charming downtown which is home to many historic structures.

Be sure to admire the Victoria County Courthouse, DeLeon Plaza, and the Pumphouse building which is now home to a restaurant.

Kid-friendly attractions in Victoria, Texas include Museum of the Coastal Bend, Texas Zoo, and the Children’s Discovery Museum.

Best Historic Attractions to visit on a day trip from Houston

There are a variety of historical attractions near Houston which are excellent to visit for native Texans.

They make a great stop for the entire family and provide kids an opportunity to experience Texas history in its original setting. 

Washington on the Brazos

Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site is known as the Birthplace of Texas.

It was here that the Texas declaration of independence was signed and the idea of the Republic of Texas was formed in 1836. 

Visitors to the historic site can see Independence Hall where the declaration was signed.

Other historic buildings on site include the star of the Republic Museum and the Barrington plantation homestead.

Washington on the Brazos is an excellent place to take kids and introduce them to the history of Texas. 

San Jacinto Museum and Monument

San Jacinto Monument, located in La Porte, commemorates the site of the Battle of San Jacinto.

This final and victorious battle in the Texas Revolution led to the formation of the independent Republic of Texas.

The historic site is a must visit for any Texan. 

The over 563 ft high towering column is a beautiful architectural structure.

The grounds have a reflecting pool and an amphitheater.

The museum located at the base of the monument has many artifacts dedicated to Texas history.

Visitors can also write to the top of the monument and see amazing views of the Houston Ship Channel. 

Battleship Texas

USSS Texas was commissioned in 1914 and is the only battleship in existence that has fought in both the World Wars.

Today, the historic Battleship Texas is dedicated as a museum ship and is open to visitors for guided tours.

It is located near the San Jacinto Monument. 

There are a couple of ways that tourists can experience the ship.

The easiest way is a self-guided tour where you can see the sleeping quarters and learn about life on the ship.

Naval and maritime enthusiasts can also take a 3 and 1/2 hour long hardhat tour which goes into the boiler room, plotting room, and many other areas not accessible on the general tour. 

For the ultimate experience you can go on the overnight education program, where you can spend the entire night on the ship and visit areas that are not open to the public such as the gun turret.

Battleship Texas is currently undergoing renovation and hence all tours are stopped at the moment. 

San Antonio Missions and the Alamo

The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, located in San Antonio, is home to four Spanish frontier missions built to spread Christianity.

The 4 missions within the park and the Alamo together are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Visitors can see these five missions on a day trip to San Antonio.

The five missions are Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, Mission Espada, and the Alamo Mission.

While the most popularly visited mission is the Alamo, each of the missions is really beautiful and has something unique for visitors. 

Distance – 3 hrs 5 mins

Read: Houston to San Antonio Drive Guide

Sam Houston Memorial Museum

The Sam Houston Memorial Museum is located in Huntsville and makes a perfect day trip from Houston.

Here you can learn about the life of Sam Houston who had a prominent role in the formation of the Republic of Texas and was its first president. 

The museum is located within the Sam Houston State University.

This is an excellent place to understand the early history and culture of Texas in the 19th century.

There are plenty of historic buildings on the ground and a variety of informative and interesting exhibits. 

Sabine Pass Battleground Historic Site

Located in Jefferson County near Port Arthur, this historic site was home to a significant Civil War battle.

The Confederate army held off a Union attack in September 1863 at Sabine Pass.

This was a key port for the shipping of Confederate supplies and hence was of significant importance in defending Texas. 

Visitors to the site can admire a statue of Confederate Lt. Dowling who led the army to victory.

You can also see a scaled model of the civil war era fort and the battleground.

There is a monument dedicated to the Union soldiers who died in the battle. 

Distance – 1 hr 35 mins

Best Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Houston

One caveat: these are not really day trips since there are lots of things to do in these Texan cities.

However, if short on time we have seen these cities on a day trip as well. 

I mean, we have once seen both San Antonio and Austin on a single day trip from Houston while showing guests around the state! 

You do need to leave early and devote a whole day to make these day trips work.

They also make excellent weekend getaways from Houston. 

The Dallas metropolitan area makes an excellent day trip from Houston.

Enjoy the museums in downtown Dallas including the 6th-floor museum at Dealey Plaza, the Museum of Art, and the Perot Museum. 

If you love nature, then the Dallas Arboretum is a must visit.

The botanical gardens look fantastic year round and have a variety of seasonal attractions such as the pumpkin patch in fall and the colorful azalea gardens in spring. 

Distance – 3 hrs 30 mins

A day trip to Arlington means a trip to Six Flags over Texas theme park.

This amazing park has a variety of roller coasters for all ages but it’s thrilling rides are most admired by the teens.

It really makes a fun family getaway from Houston.

You can also plan a trip to Arlington without visiting Six Flags.

There are many things to do in Arlington including the amazing river legacy Park and it’s walking trails, the Museum of Art, and football games and concerts at the AT&T Stadium. 

You can also see a space themed show at the Planetarium at the University of Texas Arlington.

The international Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame is a quirky attraction for the whole family. 

Distance – 3 hrs 50 mins

In the early days, Fort Worth was an important trading post for cowboys.

Today, that part of the Texan Heritage is preserved at the Fort Worth Stockyards and the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. 

The Fort Worth Stockyards is one of the best attractions in Texas.

From the historic buildings to the clothes selling western outfits, hats, and boots, the Stockyards are a lot of fun.

You can step back in time and order a drink at the salon or see a live rodeo. 

Distance – 3 hrs 55 mins

If you’re looking for day trips from Houston during the holiday season, then consider a trip to Grapevine .

The city located north of Dallas is known as the Christmas capital of Texas. 

Grapevine is just beautiful to visit during the holiday season when a million lights light up the historic downtown district.

Kids can even ride a North Pole Express to meet Santa, Claus making this a highlight of the holiday season. 

Distance – 3 hrs 48 mins

San Antonio

San Antonio is an amazing cultural and historical destination from Houston.

The main attraction of the city is the Alamo.

This historic site has been the rallying point in Texas’s War for Independence from Mexico. 

The San Antonio Riverwalk is another amazing place to visit.

Take a stroll and admire the architecture and vibrant nature of the Riverwalk.

Have a meal by the waterside and enjoy a cruise on the river. 

Distance – 3 hrs

The state capital of Texas is just a little over 2 hours away from Houston and can be easily visited on a day trip.

See the beautiful Texas state capitol building, enjoy the campus of University of Texas Austin, and take a dip in the famous Barton Spring Pool. 

Enjoy a meal on Rainey Street and take a stroll in Zilker Park before enjoying the city’s famous music scene at night.

Austin is known as the live music capital of the world and you can easily find a band performing in the entertainment districts of 6th Street and Rainey Street. 

Distance – 2 hrs 35 mins

Rockport, located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, makes an excellent beach getaway.

It is home to the popular Rockport Beach.

Here you can swim in the waters, enjoy fishing, and spot a variety of birds. 

But there are many other things to do in Rockport besides the beach.

You can visit the Texas Maritime Museum to know all about oil drilling and pirating off the Gulf Coast.

See the amazing sculpture garden at the Rockport Center for the Arts and enjoy fresh seafood meals in the city. 

This is one of the best budget friendly day trips from Houston, Texas.

Corpus Christi

Another nice beachy getaway on the Gulf Coast of Texas!

Corpus Christi makes an excellent day trip from Houston for a variety of reasons.

You can see the USS Lexington Museum ship or enjoy the touch pools at the Texas state aquarium. 

The drive to the city itself is also a delight as you will pass by smaller coastal fishing towns and fresh fruit stands in the countryside.

The beaches around Corpus Christi are also some of the most beautiful and calm beaches in Texas. 

Distance – 3 hrs 13 mins

Lake Charles

Looking for an excellent day trip from Houston across the border in Louisiana?

Then plan a visit to Lake Charles.

This day trip is full of nature, culture, and delicious food.

You can also visit a casino and enjoy gambling in Lake Charles. 

And drive the Creole nature trail to enjoy the Cajun foods, culture, and wildlife.

Sport and alligator or an osprey and listen to Zydeco music.

Return downtown to see the famous Mardi Gras museum and the beautiful homes in the Charpentier Historic District. 

Also Read: Houston to New Orleans Drive

Interested in knowing about Fredericksburg, Port Aransas , and other amazing destinations from Houston?

Read our post on the best road trips from Houston . 

We hope you liked our post on the most awesome and terrific day trips from Houston.

Did we miss any amazing destination near H-Town? Let us know in the comments.

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7 Best Small Towns To See Wildflowers In Texas

• Embark on a scenic road trip to Ennis, Texas, in late March to May to witness the stunning bluebonnets in bloom.
• Brenham is a hidden gem for wildflower lovers, offering bluebonnet views along Route 290 from early March to May.
• From late March to early May, visit Kingsland, another one of the best small towns in Texas to see wildflowers in spring, and witness a blanket of bluebonnets and other floral blooms along the Llano River.

Texas, known for its huge size, rich history, diverse landscapes, amazing barbecue, and Tex-Mex cuisine, is also among the more popular US states to visit in the spring , thanks to its abundance of gorgeous wildflowers that come into bloom. With vivid yellows, blues, reds, and pinks, the Lone Star State transforms into a stunning floral wonderland in spring.

The bluebonnet is the official state flower , inspiring people to go on beautiful road trips to see Texas's famous bluebonnets in bloom throughout the spring between early March and the end of May. However, there are many more wildflowers that attract visitors to the state in spring. This wildflower bloom marks the ideal time of year to enjoy scenic road trips in Texas through charming small towns and learn about the area's rich history while also enjoying vibrant hues of blooming flowers along the way.

The question now is: where is the best place to go in Texas for wildflowers? While there are many fantastic places in Texas to see spring blooms, small towns are perhaps the ideal choice for those eager to take in the state's most spectacular wildflower show without the crowds.

Not only are these scenic small towns in Texas popular spring destinations between March and May, but they also have more excitement to add to a trip. Don't wait; pick up any destination and head off to enjoy the majesty of Texas's brilliant wildflowers and a wonderful springtime vacation.

7 Hikes To Take On This Scenic Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Witness a variety of wildflowers along the ennis bluebonnet trail from late march through may.

Spring is the best time to visit Ennis, the official bluebonnet city of Texas, to see the blooming wildflowers. In Ennis, the third week of April is usually when the wildflowers reach their peak.

Admire this colorful grandeur at Meadow View Nature Area or drive State Highway 31 from Corsicana to Athens to admire pink evening primrose and wild indigo. There is a 40-mile official Texas Bluebonnet Trail in Ennis, maintained by the Ennis Garden Club. The annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival takes place during the second or third week of April and is a great opportunity to enjoy spring festivities and food.

Ennis has a lot more to offer, such as unique shops, wonderful cuisine, and fascinating history. It is one of the bucket list places in Texas to enjoy scenic beauty and have some memorable experiences.

Download the wildflower trail map from the Bluebonnet Trail's website or pick it up at the Ennis Visitor Center .

Capture stunning photos of bluebonnets and other wildflowers along Highway 290 from March through April

Brenham, well-known for its Blue Bell Creameries and bluebonnet vistas, is a delight for fans of ice cream, landscape, wine, and nightlife. Visitors can see bluebonnets along Route 290 as well as behind Brenham’s Walmart.

Plus, those interested in getting out of town can head straight for the Bluebonnet Trail in Washington County, one of the most scenic road trips to see Texas bluebonnets. Springtime colors beautify undulating farm roads meandering through Brenham, Chappell Hill, Washington, Independence, and Burton from early March to early May.

Brenham offers a variety of attractions, activities, and experiences that can make the trip unforgettable. Explore wineries and pubs, walk through the bustling downtown, enjoy nightlife, and, of course, don't forget to try the numerous ice cream flavors at Blue Bell Creameries .

Visit Brenham's Wildflower Watch webpage for updates on the wildflower season, scenic driving directions, and tips on where to locate the best views of bluebonnets.

Fredericksburg

Observe bluebonnets and indian paintbrushes at wildseed farms from the end of march to mid-may.

Whatever time of year one visits Fredericksburg, Wildseed Farms, the nation's largest operating wildflower farm just outside the town, is almost always in bloom.

After admiring the farm's splendor, take a leisurely drive around the Willow City Loop, which spans 13 miles, or venture into the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to witness an array of wildflowers, such as bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and red poppies.

Fredericksburg is among the quirky and unique small towns in Texas , boasting German roots, numerous wineries, and cultural attractions. Also, it is renowned for the Enchanted Rock, which produces strange creaking sounds as the temperature changes during the day.

Take the Willow City Loop drive during the weekdays to have a more serene experience free of crowds.

7 Reasons To Retire In Texas Over Arizona

Marble falls, breathe in the delightful aroma of bluebonnets and texas paintbrush along country roadsides from early march to may.

Whether one is after bluebonnets or simply wants to unwind amid serene surroundings, Marble Falls is a captivating spring destination in Texas. Camping in Turkey Bend Recreation Area and a scenic drive down Highway 281 to Burnet make for an unforgettable springtime adventure.

Hold on, though—there's nothing quite like seeing thousands of bluebonnets gracing the Bluebonnet House. Take in the sights of the Bluebonnet House as the sun sets, and don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a fantastic meal and pie at Bluebonnet Cafe .

Marble Falls has something special for everyone. From boutique shopping, exploring breweries and wineries, and kayaking to exploring art galleries, there is no dearth of things to do in Marble Falls during the spring .

Download a Wildflower Scenic Route Map from Visit Marble Falls ' website and embark on an exciting floral road trip starting in Marble Falls.

6 Unique Texas Day Trips Less Than Three Hours From Houston

See bluebonnets andindian paintbrushes along roadsides, highways, and farms from early march to late may.

Kingsland, one of the underrated yet scenic small-town alternatives to big Texas cities like Austin , is swiftly emerging as one of the top spots in Texas for wildflower hunters. Every spring, from late March to early May, Kingsland is blanketed in bluebonnets and wildflowers.

There are numerous spots to see wildflowers in Kingsland, including "The Slab" on the banks of the Llano River and an abandoned train track blanketed with bluebonnets. A variety of wildflowers around the nearby Lake Buchanan and Inks Lake State Park provide breathtaking views. Additionally, along Highway 1431 and Park Road 4, beautiful fields of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush also mesmerize.

Located right next to Lake LBJ, Kingsland is also a haven for thrill seekers, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.

Admire stunning wildflower vistas along Highway 29 and other roads leading to Burnet from late March to early May

Burnet, the bluebonnet capital of Texas, is widely regarded as one of the best places in Texas for wildflowers. It is a must-visit in the spring for its annual Bluebonnet Festival, held in April. Visitors get the chance to appreciate blooms, concerts, artwork, Texan souvenirs, and delicious food.

For those who wish to witness wildflower blossoms, Burnet offers a wide range of possibilities. Take a lovely road trip toward Mason on Highway 29, or rather any route leading to Burnet; all are adorned with carpets of springtime wildflowers. Another popular spot to enjoy wildflowers in the spring and summer is Inks Lake State Park. In the spring, nearby fields and roadside areas are also painted blue.

Burnet offers a plethora of exciting attractions in addition to the bluebonnets, such as Falkenstein Castle , vineyards, and Inks Lake State Park. Take a day trip to Burnet in the springtime to create some beautiful memories! This charming little town is Burnet, also known as the bluebonnet capital of Texas, is a wonderful place to retire and enjoy one's golden years.

See Texas bluebonnets and coreopsis along the highways and byways from late March to early May

Linden is perhaps one of the most beautiful small towns in Texas, where visitors can enjoy the best of the Lone Star State . The Wildflower Trails of Texas Festival , which marks the beginning of the wildflower blooming season, is held in the town.

Visitors will love the blooming splendor along the Wildflower Trail, which consists of Highways 49, 155, and 11 between Avinger, Hughes Springs, and Linden. Furthermore, there are chances to take in the beauty of wildflowers in neighboring Atlanta State Park and Caddo Lake State Park.

Additionally, Linden is rich in culture, history, and entertainment. Explore the stores, sample some regional cuisine, take in the historical architecture, and don't miss the opportunity to see a musical at the Music City Texas Theater .

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‘the birthplace of houston’s kolache scene’ still serving great breakfasts nearly 70 years after it opened, chris shepherd hits up some of his favorite kolache spots in ‘eat like a local’.

Dawn Campbell , Audience Engagement Director

Christie Schultz , "Eat Like a Local" producer

Enrique Ramirez , "Eat Like a Local" Photojournalist/Editor

Kolaches can be found all over Houston, but some have a reputation for quality and taste that’s hard to match.

In this episode of “Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” , Shepherd shares some of his favorite places to pick up breakfast or even road trip treats, including one that got its start almost seven decades ago.

“This is the birthplace of Houston’s kolache scene. My grandparents opened the shop in 1956. They ran the shop for about 23 years,” said Kevin Dowd, current owner of The Original Kolache Shoppe. “Mom took over after them. She ran the shop for about 32 years. My brother and I grew up in here.”

In 2011, Dowd took over the bakery when his mother passed away.

“It’s been a labor of love. This tiny little shop on Telephone (Rd.),” said Dowd.

• GET YOUR TICKETS: KPRC 2′s Eat Like a Local Crawfish Fest on sale now! 🦐

Watch this episode of “Eat Like a Local” in the video player above

“Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” is your guide to the best food in Houston. Watch new episodes Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC 2.

The Original Kolache Shoppe

5404 telephone rd. | houston.

Customers who file into The Original Kolache Shoppe can get their fill of fruit-filled kolaches, meat-filled klobasneks, cinnamon rolls, and much more.

The kitchen is open, so customers can watch the impressive prep work.

“We always say there’s no substitute for quality ingredients and freshness,” said Dowd who follows the same recipes his grandparents did for many of the restaurant’s traditional pastries.

He has expanded the business -- adding new breakfast treats -- and developing their own in-house brand of roasted coffee.

“My goal was to craft coffee as special as the pastries we’ve been crafting for three generations.”

Luloo’s Day & Night

1223 w. 34th street | houston.

Luloo’s Day & Night is the creation of the owners of Blood Bros. BBQ restaurant. It’s a bakery, sandwich shop, and full bar wrapped into one.

Here, you can enjoy a brisket-filled klobasnek with a side of Blood Bros BBQ sauce or a fruit kolache made entirely from scratch in house.

Check out this episode of “Eat Like a Local” to hear about unique creations you’ll find only at Luloo’s Day & Night. The flavors change regularly.

The Hot Bagel Shop

2015 s. shepherd dr #900 | houston.

Bagel may be in this restaurant’s name, but the variety of delicious breakfast items you can find is wide and delicious.

More “Eat Like a Local” restaurants featured in this episode

• Mrs. Donuts : 14765 Memorial Dr. | Houston
• Christy’s Donuts : 1103 W Gray St. | Houston
• Kolache Shoppe - Heights : 1031 Heights Blvd. | Houston

Bookmark the Eat Like a Local website , so you can find more restaurants serving up great food near you. We’re adding restaurants to the map every week.

Watch “Eat Like a Local with Chris Shepherd” Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC 2.

More “Eat Like a Local” episodes

• EPISODE 1: Smashed, buttery, or old school: These are top places to get a burger in Houston
• EPISODE 2: Brisket, ribs, and all the sides: Here are mouth-watering craft barbeque spots in Houston
• EPISODE 3: Bánh mì and Pho: These Vietnamese restaurants are doing it right in Houston
• EPISODE 4: Tacos for any day of the week! Chris Shepherd takes us on a taco crawl around Houston
• EPISODE 5: Cooking with fire! 🔥 Flames and smoke are the secret to success at these Houston restaurants
• EPISODE 6: Secret wings, sparkling cocktails, ‘heaven on a slice’: This is what top chefs order on their days off
• EPISODE 7: Oysters and caviar! Dig into the science of seafood and Gulf Coast flavors on ‘Eat Like a Local’
• EPISODE 8: Blood Bros. and Feges: These Houston restaurants put their own delicious spin on BBQ
• EPISODE 9: Take a trip to Katy Asian Town and your taste buds will thank you
• EPISODE 10: This acclaimed chef rightfully refuses to compromise on her ‘unapologetically, and authentically Thai’ recipes
• EPISODE 11: Explore cuisine from across Mexico in Houston🍽️These restaurants’ family recipes will have you coming back
• EPISODE 12: A fusion of flavors awaits as Chris Shepherd takes us on a Mediterranean food truck tour
• EPISODE 13: Hear the stories behind two iconic Houston restaurants told by the women running them
• EPISODE 14: Flavor with flair🍽️Tony’s in Houston adds fun to your fine dining experience
• EPISODE 15: ‘Contemporary luxury’ and a ‘house party’ in a dining room | Memorable meals await at these neighborhood restaurants
• EPISODE 16: Dim Sum to dine for! Get your dumpling fix at these Houston restaurants
• EPISODE 17: From seafood to cinnamon rolls, here’s where to go when you’re craving uniquely Houston coastal cuisine
• EPISODE 18: Date night! Chris Shepherd & friends dish on their favorite places to go for a special night out
• EPISODE 19: Shop and dine at one of Houston’s most beloved international grocery stores
• EPISODE 20: For the love of Lucille: Meet the Houston chef inspired by his great-grandmother’s passion for cooking and community
• EPISODE 21: ‘Eat Like a Local’ at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
• EPISODE 22: Craving crawfish? Chris Shepherd visits a Louisiana crawfish farm and then finds some of the best mudbugs in Houston
• EPISODE 23: Pizza perfection: These Houston restaurants are worth visiting for your next slice

Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.

About the Authors

Christie schultz.

Field producer by day. Cruise director by night to a busy, foodie, outdoorsy family, which includes two sports loving boys and one craft beer loving husband.

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• Solar Eclipse 2024

See the 2024 Solar Eclipse’s Path of Totality

A total solar eclipse is expected to pass through the United States on April 8, 2024, giving stargazers across the country the opportunity to view the celestial phenomenon in which the sun is completely covered by the moon.

The eclipse will enter the U.S. in Texas and exit in Maine. It is the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044.

Here's what to know about the path of the eclipse and where you can see it.

Read More : How Animals and Nature React to an Eclipse

Where can you see the total solar eclipse?

The eclipse will cross through North America, passing over parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. 

The eclipse will enter the United States in Texas, and travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

Much of the eclipse's visibility depends on the weather. A cloudy day could prevent visitors from seeing the spectacle altogether.

When does the solar eclipse start and end?

The solar eclipse will begin in Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. It will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

The longest duration of totality—which is when the moon completely covers the sun — will be 4 minutes, 28 seconds, near Torreón, Mexico. Most places along the path of totality will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes.

Read More : The Eclipse Could Bring $1.5 Billion Into States on the Path of Totality

Where’s the best place to see the total solar eclipse?

The best place to witness the event is along the path of totality. Thirteen states will be along the path of totality, and many towns across the country are preparing for the deluge of visitors— planning eclipse watch parties and events in the days leading up to totality.

In Rochester, NY, the Rochester Museum and Science Center is hosting a multi-day festival that includes a range of events and activities. Russellville, Arkansas will host an event with activities including live music, science presentations, tethered hot-air balloon rides, and telescope viewings.

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Write to Simmone Shah at [email protected]

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Tornado rips through katy strip center as overnight storms cause damage, power outages across houston region.

The National Weather Service says an EF1 tornado formed west of Houston early Wednesday, when much of the region got at least 1 inch of rainfall and experienced wind gusts in excess of 30 mph.

A tornado touched down west of Houston early Wednesday, causing significant damage to a strip center that includes an auto repair shop and sports bar.

A social media post by Harris County Emergency Services District 48 showed a partial building collapse at the shopping center, located in the 800 block of Mason Road in Katy. The damage was caused by a tornado, according to meteorologist Brad Brokamp of the National Weather Service’s Houston/Galveston office.

“We do believe it was an EF1 tornado that hit the Katy area, a short-track tornado with estimated maximum winds around 90 mph,” Brokamp said.

The tornado formed as a line of thunderstorms blew through the Houston region early Wednesday, causing other building damage, downed trees and power outages for more than 170,000 area residents.

About 30,000 remained without electricity as of about 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, according to CenterPoint Energy , which provides power to the region. Power and internet outages prompted the closure of at least one Houston-area school district as Columbia-Brazoria ISD, which serves an area about 50 miles south of the city, canceled classes Wednesday.

The storms also caused significant damage in Galveston County, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Sean Luchs, who said the office received reports of home damage in the League City area.

Wind speeds reached 62 mph in Tomball, which is northwest of the city, 55 mph in Pearland to the south, and 46 mph along the Gulf Coast in Galveston, according to Luchs, who said most of the Houston region experienced wind gusts in excess of 30 mph.

Most of the Southeast Texas region also got at least 1 inch of rainfall, Luchs said, with some areas such as Katy receiving between 2-4 inches. And while roads were wet early Wednesday, Luchs said the local National Weather Service office had not received reports of any structural flooding.

"Fortunately, the storms were moving pretty quickly," Luchs said. "Even though it may have been briefly heavy rain, the amounts were kind of held down by how quickly the storms were moving through."

Luchs said the National Weather Service also got reports from across the region about downed trees and broken branches. Cleanup efforts could begin almost immediately, though, as the skies had started to clear by late Wednesday morning.

There is no more rain in the Houston area's forecast through the weekend.

"The rain has moved out," Luchs said. "The sun's already starting to break out, and it will continue to do so through the rest of the day and tonight."

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