east texas road trip

East Texas Road Trips

With its rolling hills, deep woods, pasture land, and Gulf beaches, East Texas has a wide range of appeal, and things to do on short road trips.

From world-class golf courses, walking trails, cultural attractions, state parks, festivals, antique shopping, fall motoring and art museums, the East Texas area has something for everyone to enjoy.

Those Early Trails and Roads in East Texas

When embarking on a road trip today in East Texas, it is often useful to study the history of the main roads, trails and highways in earlier days. Combining today's attractions with a historical perspective makes the road trip that much more fun, entertaining and educational.

As you plan your East Texas road trip, keep these earlier trails and roads in mind ...

Dixie Overland Highway

U.S. Highway 80 was an early transcontinental route, known as the Dixie Overland Highway , from Savannah, Georgia, to San Diego, California, covering a distance of 1,032 miles. It entered Texas from the East between Shreveport, Louisiana, and Waskom as a two-lane road. It then was routed through Marshall, Longview, Gladewater, Mineola, Grand Saline, Wills Point and on to Dallas.

Bankhead Highway

The Bankhead Highway was a transcontinental route connecting Washington, D.C., with San Diego.

The primary 850-mile route through Texas was originally Texas Highway No.1, which became part of U.S. Route 67 and U.S. Route 80. The main route passed through Texarkana, Mount Pleasant, Mount Vernon, Sulphur Springs, Greenville and Garland before arriving at Fort Worth where it turned onto former U.S. Route 80.

In 2009, the Bankhead Highway was designated a Texas Historic Highway as part of the new state Historic Roads and Highways Program.

The Old Spanish Trail

The Old Spanish Trail was another transcontinental route that passed through Texas, connecting San Augustine, Florida with San Diego in California.

In south East Texas, the Old Spanish Trail can still be seen in some places. The trail runs alongside Interstate 10 through Orange and Vidor. When it reaches the Neches River, it merges with Interstate 10 crosses the Purple Heart Bridge, then detours through Downtown Beaumont. It then travels on to Houston.

El Camino Real ... the Old San Antonio Road, or The King's Highway

This historic road spanned 47 miles in Louisiana, and 540 miles in Texas. The route of the El Camino Real passed through Natchitoches and Many in Louisiana, crossed the Sabine River and into Nacogdoches. From there it went through Crockett and Caldwell before connecting with San Marcos, New Braunfels, San Antonio and Niederwald.

The State of Texas has marked some East Texas county roads as State Highway OSR . Originally, the whole route from the Sabine River to San Marcos carried this designation, but it has since been reduced to a short bypass around Bryan.

A series of granite markers were placed by the Texas Society Daughters of the American Revolution that marked the main route of the Old San Antonio Road through Texas, as surveyed in 1915 and placed in 1918.

In 2004, President Bush signed a bill designating The El Camino Real de Los Tejas, of which the Old San Antonio Road is part, a National Historic Trail.

East Texas Highway

The East Texas Highway was created in June of 1917 when the Texas Highway Commission announced the establishment of the state's first highway system. It was designated as SH 8 and was the easternmost of the three north-south highways that the Commission created at that time.

Although the northern third of the East Texas Highway generally followed a straight north-south path from the Red River at the Oklahoma border to the Harrison-Panola county line, the rest of the highway paralleled the Sabine River as it flowed to the Gulf of Mexico.

The highway linked some of the oldest and most active communities in the region at that time including Port Arthur, Beaumont, Orange, Jasper, San Augustine, Carthage, Marshall, and Linden.

Popular Day Trips Around East Texas Today

Today, East Texas has large cities and an extensive system of state highways, county roads, and interstate highways. But it has many rural areas, quaint small towns and hundreds of miles of back roads and scenic trails. Get off the beaten path, and explore East Texas in several directions!

Marshall - On your Highway 80 road trip, visit the "Cultural Capital of East Texas" . Marshall has more than 100 historical markers and medallions, such as the T&P Depot marker, with several sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Many of Marshall's Victorian homes have been restored, and several function as B&Bs. Also fully restored is the Harrison County Courthouse .

Marshall is also known for its famous Wonderland of Lights during the Christmas season.

Longview - While exploring Historic Highway 80, stop in Longview and experience historic buildings, shopping, restaurants, hot air balloon festivals, museums, Gregg County Fair and much more! For a great review of the area, visit the Gregg County Historical Museum

Gladewater - antique capitol of East Texas, located on historic US Highway 80 at U.S. Highway 271. When in the area in the spring, don't miss the Lee Daffodil Garden with its acres of beautiful floral displays, just south of Gladewater, off US Highway 271

Grand Saline - make a stop while on Historic U.S. Highway 80 and lick the Salt Palace! And see lots of wildlife at the nearby East Texas Gators & Wildlife Park

Linden has strong music roots as the home of famous musicians like Rock Star Don Henley, Blues Legend Aaron T-Bone Walker , and others. Music City Texas Theater hosts music concerts throughout the year.

Carthage is home to the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame, created to celebrate the contributions of Texans to the country music profession. The project highlights those individuals who are recognized nationally as outstanding in their field.

More about Linden and Carthage

Tigers, Big Foot and More!

Those looking for a road trip in Upper East Texas might enjoy this one ... about 2.5 hours driving time (without stops), 113 miles.

Tyler State Park , accessible on a short drive north of Tyler on scenic State Highway 14, provides overnight camping venues, mountain biking, fishing, picnicking, hiking and more.

Leaving the state park, continue north on Highway 14, and visit the Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary .

After a visit with the tigers, turn west on State Highway 16 to Lindale , hometown of Miranda Lambert and The Cannery . From Lindale, travel north on U.S. 69 to the City of Mineola, the site of the Mineola Nature Preserve and Big Foot Paddling Trail. North of Mineola on Highway 37 is Lake Fork and the town of Quitman.

Continuing north from Quitman on Highway 154 is the City of Sulphur Springs and its Celebration Plaza and Southwest Dairy Museum and Learning Center . Then journey east on old US Highway 67 and see all the attractions in Mount Vernon and Mount Pleasant .

Hotels are available in Mount Pleasant, or journey on to Texarkana or back to Tyler.

A good starting point for road trips in this area is the The Ben J. Rogers Regional Visitors Center, which provides information and assistance to travelers throughout South East Texas. It is located at 5055 Interstate Highway 10 South. Phone 409.842.0500 for opening hours and other information.

From the Visitors Center, drive into downtown Beaumont and visit the Fire Museum of Texas and the McFaddin-Ward House .

If spending the night in the area, enjoy the sights, sounds and dining in the Crockett Street Entertainment District. Also popular with Beaumont visitors are the Babe Didrikson Zaharias Memorial Museum and the beautiful Saint Anthony Cathedral . And you are likely to see remnants of the Old Spanish Trail on Willow, Park, Pearl and College Streets downtown.

Head east from Beaumont and exit at Vidor to avoid the I-10 congestion, with a more leisurely segment to Shangri La Botanical Gardens and the W.H. Stark House in Orange.

Then head southwest on State Highway 87, crossing the Neches River, to Port  Arthur, and visit attractions such as the Museum of the Gulf Coast and Pompeiian Villa .

Take U.S. Highway 96 back towards Beaumont, stopping to see the Dutch Windmill Museum and the French House in Nederland.

Beaumont offers a wide array of lodging, restaurants and entertainment, a great place to start, and end, an East Texas road trip!

For more information:

• Beaumont Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Orange Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Visit Port Arthur

Deep East Texas Road Trip from Nacogdoches

3 hours, 165 miles

Start your tour in Nacogdoches! With various lodging options in hotels and B&Bs, the city makes a great launch pad for road trips all around East Texas, like this one to Lufkin, Crockett, Palestine and Alto.

The city features many popular attractions including antique shopping, historic homes, art and athletics events at Stephen F. Austin University, boating and outdoor activities on area lakes, the Deep East Texas Fall Foliage Trail, Holiday in the Pines, and more.

Be sure to stop at the Charles Bright Visitor Center located in Plaza Principal in the historic downtown Nacogdoches district for valuable area information and trip planning ideas.

Read more about Nacogdoches

Begin the road trip out of the city by heading south on U.S. Highway 59 to Lufkin. There, downtown features numerous unique retail and antique shops, eating establishments, professional businesses, and also includes a historic walking tour describing the history of Lufkin.

The First Street Arts Center promotes East Texas artists whose work ideally captures the Piney Woods experience. And don't miss the mural in Cotton Square Heritage Park .

Also popular with tourists is the Museum of East Texas, the Ellen Trout Zoo , the Texas Forestry Museum , and the Temple Theater in the Angelina Center for the Arts on the Angelina College campus.

Read more about Lufkin

Head west on Highway 103, through the Davy Crockett National Forest, which contains 160,000 acres of woodlands, streams, recreational areas, and wildlife habitat.

Crockett offers its residents and visitors a variety of festivals with family friendly activities, outdoor recreation including fishing, boating and hunting, several entertainment venues, and numerous historical homes and sites.

The Piney Woods Fine Arts Association presents a number of popular events and concerts at the Crockett Civic Center, at 1163 Edmiston Drive.   Other popular area attractions include the Houston County Museum, the Downs-Aldrich House, the Monroe-Cook House, Houston County Lake, Grapeland Drive-Thru Safari and Mission Tejas State Park.

Read more about Crockett

After touring Crockett, take U.S. Highway 287 north to Palestine. Over 1,800 historical sites are located in Palestine, the county seat of Anderson County.

A wide variety of attractions welcome the visitor to Palestine, including the Anderson County Courthouse, the Texas State Railroad, the Palestine Community Forest, and Elmwood Gardens. Davey Dogwood Park is home to more than 200 acres of picturesque roads meander throughout the park. The park is featured during the annual Texas Dogwood Trails Festival in March and April. Admission is free.

Popular Palestine attractions include the well known Texas State Railroad , which has a rail station in Palestine and one in Rusk . The railroad has a beautiful park at each end of the excursion route.

Read more about Palestine

As we begin the final leg of this road trip, head east on Highway 294 to Alto, located on U.S. 69. It is a small town established in 1849, and near the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site , just west of town at 1649 State Highway 21.

After touring the historic site, continue east on Highway 21 through Douglass and back to Nacogdoches.

For more information on cities and attractions on this road trip:

• Visit Nacogdoches
• Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce
• Lufkin Convention and Visitors Bureau
• Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce
• Texas State Railroad
• Crockett Chamber of Commerce
• Piney Woods Fine Arts Association
• Visit Houston County

Other Attractions and Road Trip Ideas

Edom - between Canton and Tyler on quiet Texas Highway 279 ... festivals, potters, artists, garden centers, restaurants, eclectic shopping. Explore Blue Moon Gardens, and pick blueberries!

Canton - site of the famous First Monday Trade Days each month, plus a nearby waterpark for the kids. On I-20, and Texas Highways 19 and 64.

Athens - State Fish Hatchery, East Texas Arboretum, scuba park, and fall foliage tours and road trips. Located on State Highways 19 and 31, and U.S. Highway 175.

Stand in three states at once! The states of Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas meet just to the southeast of Atlanta at the Ark-La-Tex Three States USGS Monument .

Jefferson - Take a short 17-mile road trip north from Marshall on US Highway 59 to Jefferson. This small city is full of antique shops, B&Bs, restaurants, festivals and more. While in the area, don't miss a photo op in the tiny village of Uncertain , and steamboat rides.

Caddo Lake is a 25,400 acre lake and wetland near Jefferson on the border between Texas and Louisiana.

Kilgore - This small city is centrally located in Upper East Texas, and is easily accessible on short trips from Tyler, and Longview, on State Highway 31. It features several attractions such as the East Texas Oil Museum, Kilgore College, the historic Crim Theatre, the Rangerette Museum, and the "City of Stars" holiday festival.

Joinerville - located south of Kilgore on U.S. 64. Stop at the Gaston Museum and see first hand the place where the famous East Texas Oil Field was discovered.

Jacksonville - on U.S. 69, home of the annual Tomato Fest, a good starting point for road trips to the west to Athens, and east to Reklaw, Mount Enterprise, Timpson and Tenaha. East of Jacksonville is the Cherokee Trace Drive Thru Safari , a wildlife park that is home to an amazing variety of wildlife. Near Reklaw is the popular Lake Striker .

Love's Lookout - while in Jacksonville visit this beautiful 30-mile vista to the East. It is a great picnic location and a place to pick up tourist information for area attractions and trips!

Toledo Bend Reservoir - On the Texas-Louisiana border, near Shelbyville, San Augustine, and Hemphill. This massive lake offers boating, fishing, swimming, marinas, hiking,  camping, golf, resorts, and restaurants.

Rusk - ride the Texas State Railroad through deep forests to Palestine, and back. While in the Rusk area, you may want to visit the quaint Maydelle Country Wines . Nearby is Moore Farms , a fun place to visit for all ages of the family year round.

Bullard - Located 15 miles south of Tyler on U.S. 69, Bullard features quiet country roads in every direction! A few miles east on FM 344 is Kiepersol Enterprises . On the grounds are a complete range of activities, facilities and services including Kiepersol Bed & Breakfast, Kiepersol Vineyard and Winery, KE Bushman's Camp/RV Park, and the KE Bushman's Celebration Center.

Plus, don't miss the American Freedom Museum near downtown Bullard, and nearby Dewberry Plantation , dating to 1854. This historic home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and registered as a Texas State Historical Landmark.

Lake Palestine - 25,000 acres of boating, fishing, swimming, marinas, waterfront restaurants ... minutes southwest of Tyler on Texas Highway 155 near Coffee City, Chandler and Frankston

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Road Trip Around East Texas

A trip from  Houston  through  East Texas  takes you on an adventure like no other, where the trees get taller and the leaves become more evergreen. Experience history and the natural world in a duet that sounds like the wind whistling through the pines and makes road trip memories that will last a lifetime. 

This journey starts in the hubbub of Houston, but we won’t do museums or downtown shops on this trip. Instead, we’ll take it slow at the  Houston Zoo , voted one of the best in the nation. Then take a rest from being on your feet, grab some picnic food and sprawl out by  Buffalo Bayou , a waterway stretching through the heart of Houston and surrounded by a beautiful urban park. You can walk your dog, rent a bike, try your hand at paddleboarding or just sit and admire the skyline. By this time, you might be ready for a short trip out of the city to hit the wineries on the  Texas Bluebonnet Wine Trail . The vineyards won’t disappoint.

From there, grab your trail mix and head up to  Sam Houston National Forest  for a retreat into peace and pine trees. As the city skyline disappears in your rearview mirror and the woods start to surround you like a blanket, feel yourself relax and soak in the scenery. This beautiful stretch of land hosts an abundance of wildlife and natural lakes for fishing or canoeing. For the hikers among you, the Lone Star hiking trail provides 129 miles of beautiful scenery to explore. Feel free to stay all night if you like. There are some great camping options available in the area.

Less than two hours of driving directly north, you’ll find yourself in  Palestine, Texas , a small town famous for its wonderful old-timey train ride. When you arrive, grab a bite from Switch Brick Oven Pizza & Wine Bar will set you on the right foot for the adventure ahead. Your train adventure will leave from the  Texas State Railroad train depot  for a four-hour round trip that will transport you to a simpler time. Before heading out of town, check out  Bralys Ace Hardware . You might not need a new socket wrench, but the converted 1938 school building is worth a look around. The old lockers and bookshelves are still in operation—except now they hold merchandise. 

Next, head east toward  Nacogdoches , Texas’ quintessential Piney Woods town. If you’ve got the time, be sure to hit the  Caddo Mounds State Historic Site , which is on the way, and take in the history of the Hasinai natives from over a thousand years ago. Originally a ceremonial space for ritual purposes, the site is a great place to learn all about the area’s Native American culture.

Nacogdoches is commonly thought of as the oldest town in Texas, and when you’re there, you’ll feel the history in the charming downtown and historic landmarks. For our nature lovers, we recommend meandering through the  SFA Gardens  and admiring the gorgeous collection of native plants.  Millard’s Crossing Historic Village  is another great option for those who want to be immersed in the history of the area. Stroll through the town center filled with real 19 th -century buildings for a unique opportunity to see a bygone era up close.

Just a 15-minute drive from Nacogdoches, you’ll find  Angelina National Forest , a great place for quiet and secluded camping or just sightseeing on a few short, pleasant trails.  Bouton Lake  is one great scenic option for fishing or a simple lakeside lunch. There is an abundance of hiking trails to choose from, but  Sawmill Hiking Trail  is a great option. It’s a short, moderate trail that goes right by the ruins of the Aldridge Sawmill, abandoned in 1923, which is now covered in greenery – striking amid the wilderness surrounding it.

If you’re up for one more nature park, this is a good one: Head south to  Big Thicket National Preserve , a complex and beautiful combination of nine different ecosystems with a diverse medley of plant and animal species. Camping here is “primitive,” meaning you’re on your own. Get a permit and you’re good to set up almost anywhere. The Neches River area provides miles and miles of scenery to enjoy by kayak or canoe, and there are 40 miles of Big Thicket trails to choose from for any level of hiker.

The Neches River runs all the way down to your final stop:  Beaumont  (although we recommend you travel there by road). Here you can find  Gator Country , a large alligator sanctuary. The kids will likely never forget the feeding show they put on here. For gators in their natural habitat, check out  Cattail Marsh . There’s always a plethora of activities being put on at the marsh, including Saturday morning yoga for a good stretch to end a long journey. 

This trip is best when you slow down and take your time, listening to the sounds of the native birds, discovering the wonders of the flora and fauna and finding the perfect rock to balance your lunch on. What an adventure! So hit the road and remember to drive friendly, the Texas way.

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Discover the Five Most Scenic Drives in East Texas

If you’ve spent any time in East Texas, you’re most likely already aware that this area features some of the most scenic highways and byways in the state. Whether you enjoy cruising by vineyards and rose farms, exploring the hilly shorelines of numerous lakes, or just leisurely driving down winding, tree-covered country lanes, the roads of East Texas have a lot to offer.

Here are five of our personal favorites:

Pineywoods Autumn Trail: This picturesque drive from Athens to Palestine, commonly known as the Pineywoods Autumn Trail, is a 145-mile road trip bursting with beautiful foliage and a host of scenic stops along the route. Some of the highlights include Lake Athens, the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, the East Texas Arboretum, and Tara Vineyard & Winery.

Daingerfield State Park to Caddo Lake: This 54-mile route passes through a number of interesting places, including the historic town of Jefferson. Daingerfield State Park is known as one of the best parks to view fall foliage, so consider starting your journey there. Along the way, you’ll pass Lake O’ the Pines. Complete your scenic drive at Caddo Lake State Park and a visit to the mystical, magical Caddo Lake.

Tyler to Rusk: The drive from Tyler south along Highway 69 will take you to Rusk, where you can check out Jim Hogg State Park and the Texas State Railroad. Just south of Rusk and Alto, visit the Caddo Indian Mounds State Historic Site and the Mission Tejas State Park near the Davy Crockett National Forest.

Carthage to San Augustine: From Carthage, head south on U.S. Highway 59. Soon you’ll be greeted with a thick canopy of trees and miles of dense forests on both sides of the road. In Tenaha, Highway 59 merges with U.S. Highway 96 and begins approaching the Sabine National Forest. About 35 minutes later, you’ll arrive in San Augustine, a settlement that boasts not just beautiful scenery, but a rich history as well.

Dan Blocker’s Ranch: Do you remember Dan Blocker, who played Hoss Cartwright on the classic TV western series, “Bonanza?” Dan once owned a beautiful ranch in East Texas. He sold it well before his death in 1972, but the breathtaking views of the ranch from Highway 154 between Rhonesboro and Rosewood live on as some of the best in all of East Texas.

As an added bonus, hop on virtually any portion of U.S. Highway 96, and you’ll be guaranteed numerous views of East Texas’ beauty, especially when you get beyond Jasper.

So gas up your vehicle and head out on the highways of East Texas this weekend. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Please feel free to e-mail us or call us at 903-530-2488 if you have any questions or need more information about Roadrunner Acres RV Ranch. We look forward to hopefully welcoming you as one of our new residents soon!

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This Rural Road Trip Will Lead You To Some Of The Best Countryside Hidden Gems In Texas

Katie Lawrence

Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015. Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).

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East Texas is definitely one of the most underrated regions in the state. From the lush, evergreen landscape that earned it the nickname “Piney Woods” to the plethora of charming small towns scattered about, there’s so much about the area to love. This 3-hour road trip showcases some of the very best things to do in East Texas. You’ll visit the oldest general store in the state, two remote and beautiful state parks, and a museum honoring a NASA space shuttle that crashed upon reentry into the atmosphere. Here are some of the best hidden gems in East Texas .

Visit Google Maps for the customizable trip itinerary.

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Would you take this road trip to the best hidden gems in East Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a great BBQ restaurant to try while you’re in the Piney Woods.

Before hitting the road on this or any other road trips in Texas, make sure you check out our Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List , and don’t forget the snacks !

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

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Hidden gems in texas.

What are some other hidden gems in Texas I should visit?

If you love uncovering hidden gems as much as I do, here are more of the best hidden gems in Texas:

• Boca Chica Beach in Brownsville
• Blue Lagoon Huntsville
• San Felipe Springs in Del Rio
• Hueco Tanks State Park in El Paso
• Claiborne West Park in Vidor
• Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center in Orange
• Copper Breaks State Park in Quanah
• Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve in Austin
• Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge in Freeport
• Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge in Tyler
• Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in Los Fresnos

Check out more details on these and more hidden gems in Texas .

What are some of the best natural wonders in Texas?

Hidden gems and natural wonders are parts of what makes a state so special. Here are some of the best natural wonders in Texas:

• Big Bend National Park
• Jacob's Well in Wimberley
• Palo Duro Canyon
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Salt Flat
• Gorman Falls in Bend
• Enchanted Rock State Park in Fredericksburg
• Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park in Mission
• Hamilton Pool Preserve in Dripping Springs
• Big Thicket National Preserve in Kountze

Uncover more details on these and a few more natural wonders in Texas .

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East Texas Texas Road Trip

9 Exciting East Texas Weekend Getaways

East Texas weekend getaways are just around the corner!

East Texas is among the favorite destinations for family vacations with Texans (me included), and fair reason. The scenery is green, the weather is a little hot but doable because of the shade from the tall pine trees, and the natural beauty all around is hard to find anywhere else. Plan one of these East Texas weekend getaways for fabulous golf courses, national forests, historic sites, and natural beauty that the Piney Woods offers daily. And, if you’re looking for weekend getaways in Texas on a budget , our friends and writers Jennifer and Troy can help with their tips and tricks.

There are plenty of other outdoor activities in this part of the Lone Star State if these activities are not what you’re seeking. I’ve been to many of these places.

Welcome To East Texas Weekend Getaways

A weekend trip could be all you need to make the most of your time in East Texas. Below are 8 of my favorite weekend getaways in East Texas and a hidden gem I came across. These are some of the best places I can recommend you go to. I know there are many more, and I may add more as I find them, but this list is a good start.

Things To Do In East Texas For Couples

So, I said I’ve been to some of the most beautiful places in East Texas , and normally I travel alone or with my mother. But, believe me, you – I’ve seen plenty of couples on the same road trip as I. Especially in Jefferson, at Caddo Lake, and in Conroe. If you’re looking for a couples getaway, any of these places will work. Try Walston Spring Ranch in Palestine – they offer quaint romantic cabins with breakfast in the morning. That’s hard to beat.

1. Caddo Lake & Caddo State Park

Caddo Lake is as far east as you can go between the borders of Texas & Louisiana. Many cabins are available to rent, and it’s an East Texas popular destination any time of year. Caddo Lake State Park is a wonderful state park with cypress trees. Find a tour guide to take you on a boat tour of Caddo Lake. I went on one a couple of years ago, but the person I took the tour with is no longer in business. If anything, there are hiking and biking trails for your enjoyment.

2. Holly Lake Ranch (Near Tyler)

An East Texas hidden gem in the piney woods roughly 2-hrs from Dallas and 30 minutes from Tyler is where you’ll find Holly Lake Ranch. It’s an unincorporated private and gated community with a golf course where an adorable 2-bedroom lake resort cabin called Hank’s Hideaway is for rent .

The cabin is equipped with amenities like a home. Enjoy a wood-burning fireplace, a screened-in back patio with a gas fire pit to watch the wildlife go by, and an open-concept kitchen perfect for hosting friends and family. These are just a few of the amenities that are my favorite.

The cabin is within walking distance from the two main lakes – Lake Greenbriar and Holly Lake. Holly Lake is a no-wake zone where you can fish, kayak, paddleboat, or canoe. You’ll want to see it all for yourself. Check out Hank’s Hideaway on Houfy . FYI – Houfy is a vacation rental site for homes, condos, cabins, and more.

3. Jefferson, Texas – Quaint Small Town

Jefferson is one of Texas’s most historical tourist destinations. It has over 135 recognized historic structures, including historic bed and breakfast accommodations, charming restaurants, and historic downtown. Whether you’re interested in history, attractions, food, or shopping, the city of Jefferson offers something unique to everyone who visits. Book a B&B and enjoy your time. There are riding tours, walking tours, ghost tours, etc.

If you’re into  local haunts , you might want to book a  Historic Jefferson Ghost Tour , or if riding horses is your thing, there is wonderful horseback riding in Marshall (the next town over) with Karma Farms.

Big Cypress Bayou is the name applied to a series of wetlands at the western edge of Caddo Lake, making up part of the largest Cypress forest in the world.

Explore the historic downtown either by walking or on a golf cart. Don’t forget to get your picture taken by the iconic blue truck from the General Store. It’s a popular photo thrill!

Rent a golf cart and stroll Main Street, perusing the antique shops. Rent golf carts from Made in the Shade kayak . Visit historical homes and museums, and you can choose between historical walking tours or ghost tours at night. Either one sounds nice.

The Ranch at Walston Springs – The Shady Lady Room

4. The Ranch At Walston Springs – Palestine, TX

Does a romantic weekend getaway sound good to you? If so, consider booking a romantic cabin at the Ranch At Walston Springs . My mom and I stayed in one of the adorable cabins that were decorated in sassy gunslinger decor, and the homemade breakfast each morning was worth the stay.

The Texas State Railroad is one of the popular attractions in Palestine that offers train rides through the Piney Woods. I highly recommend doing this at least once. You’ll get to view the natural beauty of East Texas, and if you plan your trip just right, the Dogwoods will be out. They usually start popping out in April.

Go by the farmers’ market on Saturdays located by the visitor center. I found some nice things and put a smile on some girls’ faces when I brought a bag they made from a dog food bag for a fundraiser – it made my day …and theirs.

Margaritaville Resort Lake Conroe

5. Conroe, Texas – Margaritaville Resort

Conroe, TX, is about 45 minutes from Houston, a 3-hour drive from Dallas, and a couple of hours from Baton Rouge, LA. I can’t tell you how often my family drove to Houston to visit family during the holidays and special occasions, only to pass through Conroe and The Woodlands and never stop. My parents didn’t know what they were missing. However, to their defense, Conroe didn’t offer much back in the ’90s, but as time passed, the city grew. I’m shocked at all the beautiful things I no longer pass up.

Margaritaville Resort, for one. Where else can you and your family play in the sun, eat, swim, and walk barefoot while listening to music? No other than Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Resort Lake Conroe in the Lone Star State! After all, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere!!

If you do stay at the resort and want to see the town, downtown Conroe is very friendly and walkable. There are many shops and boutiques and a couple of breweries downtown.

Tyler State Park

6. Tyler, Texas – An East Texas Gem

Tyler State Park offers family fun kayaking and canoeing on Lake Tyler, staying in screened cabins, exploring nature, and viewing wildlife. I have one memory here when I took my first son and niece when they were eight years old. That was so long ago, but I remember how much fun we had. Consider Tyler State Park  as one of your East Texas weekend getaways.

Travel Tip:  Depending on where you’re coming from, visit the  Texas Freshwater F isheries Center in Athens to see exhibits, learn about fish, and see hatchery and educational programs. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 9 am–4 pm, and Sunday, 1 pm–4 pm.

7. Family Time In The Woodlands

There is this massive resort in The Woodlands that I know every family wants to visit. Have you been there? It’s called The Woodlands Resort . I have not been there, but I’ve read plenty about it to know this would be an excellent weekend getaway in East Texas. Check it out.

8. Stay At Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards

Pittsburg, Texas, 127 miles from Dallas, 77 miles from Texarkana, and near Bob Sandlin State Park, as this is Northeast Texas at its finest. It’s where thousands of red, yellow, and orange leaves fall to the ground when the fall season finally arrives. It’s beautiful that time of year.

At  Los Pinos Ranch , you can enjoy staying in a quaint cottage beside the vineyard. After your wine tasting, stroll through the vineyard before returning to your cottage. This, to me, would be the perfect romantic weekend getaway.

9. Visit a National Forest In East Texas

Did you know Texas has four National Forests, and they are all in East Texas? Take your pick.

• Davy Crockett National Forest near Crockett and Lufkin.
• Sam Houston Natuibak Forest in Coldspring.
• Sabine National Forest is on the cusp of the Texas and Louisiana border near San Augustine.
• Angelina National Forest between Lufin and Hemphill and below Nacogdoches.

Any of the National Forests would make an excellent weekend stay in East Texas. If you’re not a camper, I wouldn’t think you had to camp. Find a quaint hotel or BnB.

Choose one of these places in East Texas to visit and make it a great weekend stay.

About Kim Croisant

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

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East Texas Road Trip: 10 Sites to Explore this Summer

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip — Southern California Itinerary

Looking for a getaway to explore East Texas this summer that’s both budget friendly and back to nature? We’ve got you covered. Here are 10 sites to explore this summer in far East Texas.

Jefferson, Texas

Overlook Point, Lake O’ the Pines Dam, Jefferson, TX 75657

Step back in time in the charming town of Jefferson. Known for its well-preserved historic homes and antique shops, take a leisurely stroll through the streets and soak up the old-world charm.

Caddo Lake State Park

Park Headquarters, Karnack, TX 75661

Experience the enchanting beauty of Caddo Lake, known for its cypress trees and Spanish moss. Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle through the serene waters, or hike the trails that meander through the park.

Toledo Bend Reservoir

“Swede” Johnson Recreation Area, FM 2572, Joaquin, TX 75954

Indulge in water-based activities at Toledo Bend Reservoir, a sprawling lake perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. Enjoy the scenic views and relax in the tranquil ambiance. The reservoir is also surrounded by the Sabine National Forest.

Sabine National Forest

5050 TX-21, Hemphill, TX 75948

Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Sabine National Forest. Enjoy camping, hiking, and birdwatching in this peaceful and pristine forested area.

Lake Sam Rayburn

Overlook Park, 7696 Hwy 255, Jasper, TX 75951

Escape to Lake Sam Rayburn, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Engage in water sports, fishing, or simply relax on the shoreline, taking in the stunning vistas.

Rusk, Texas

Heritage Center of Cherokee County Museum, 208 S Henderson St, Rusk, TX 75785

Visit the historic town of Rusk, home to the Texas State Railroad Depot and the Rusk Penitentiary Museum. Explore the rich history and learn about the fascinating past of the region.

Texas State Railroad

535 Park Rd 76, Rusk, TX 75785

Embark on a scenic train ride through the picturesque piney woods on the Texas State Railroad. Enjoy the nostalgic charm of a bygone era as you traverse the tracks and take in the natural beauty.

Big Thicket National Preserve

FM 420, Kountze, TX 77625

Explore the vast wilderness of Big Thicket, home to diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and picturesque waterways. Immerse yourself in nature and discover its hidden wonders.

Davy Crockett National Forest

18551 Texas 7, Kennard, TX 75847

Discover the outdoor wonders of Davy Crockett National Forest. Camp, hike, or go fishing in the serene surroundings, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.

Mission Tejas State Park

19343 State Hwy 21 E, Grapeland, TX 75844

Experience the beauty of Mission Tejas State Park, known for its historic sites and scenic trails. Discover the replica of Mission San Francisco de los Tejas and enjoy hiking through the lush forest.

These road trip ideas in far East Texas offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and outdoor adventure. Embark on an unforgettable journey and create lasting memories as you try to escape the heat in the piney woods of East Texas.

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You need to visit these places in East Texas

When people hear ‘Texas,’ they think of the Wild West, the Cowboys, cattle, dust, and oil. But nestled on the eastern side of the state, bordering Louisana, is a near-polar opposite world – though there is plenty of oil and likely lots of Cowboys fans. East Texas has forests, rivers, colorful swamps, beautiful birds, and even gators.

Talk about some of the best vacation destinations in Texas! While the places to see in East Texas are too numerous to do in a day, they provide for one helluva road trip. The focal point is Big Thicket National Preserve and the stunning beauty it offers to so many guests.

As with any Texas road trip, you have to start somewhere, and for this one, the bustling city of Houston is your home base. Filled with wonderful people and delicious Texas BBQ (seriously, I want to go back for it), it’s a great place to spend a day/night before embarking on your trip.

While in Houston, we enjoyed walking around Buffalo Bayou Park, which has a gorgeous view of the Houston skyline at sunset.

The Ultimate Guide to Places to See in East Texas

What to know about a Texas road trip

• Driving days aren’t too bad. Maybe two hours max per day. However, Houston traffic is known for being congested. Plan extra time coming back into the city. However, it’s a pretty mild Texas road trip overall.
• Once you leave major metro areas, however, food can get scarce. So make sure to bring snacks from a grocery store and plan your meals.
• East Texas’s climate is far different than the rest of the state. Expect humid conditions and possibly rain.
• Pinkerton’s BBQ is the real deal. But be warned; you’ll likely spend $30 without trying.
• Some of the places to see in East Texas take cash only. Come ready.
• If you’re coming from the west coast, New England, or the Eastern Seaboard, gas prices will be shockingly low.
• Big Thicket National Preserve is amazing, providing some great photo opportunities and adventuring. Definitely one of the best places to see in East Texas.

My favorite places to see in East Texas

Huntsville state park.

Seventy minutes north of Houston lies Huntsville State Park. Ripe with hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and mountain biking opportunities, this is a gold mine for outdoor enthusiasts and one of the best places to see in East Texas.

I enjoyed spending time on the piers, watching an alligator swim below and cranes fly just feet above the water. We also explored the Prairie Branch Loop Trail to the Headwater Boardwalks. As it’s a loop, my brother and I started on the trail that parallels the lake and returned on the “normal” path.

In all, it’s about 2.3 miles round trip and suitable for the entire family.

View the State Park hiking map here.

Lone Star Hiking Trail

Spanning 129 miles across Texas is the Lone Star Hiking Trail, offering outdoors lovers a place to hike, backpack, or thru-trek nearly year-round. Unfortunately, we only did a small section of it, just north of Conroe and south of Huntsville State Park. This area was gorgeous, with thousands and thousands of trees erupting from the soil to the sky.

I wish I could point you to the ‘best’ place, but that’s what makes this fun. Find a section that looks good and tackle it! Regardless of the views, you’ll be better off adding this to your Texas road trip.

For those curious about thru-hiking, here’s a good guide .

Exploring the Incredible Big Thicket National Preserve

Kirby nature trail.

Minutes from the Big Thicket National Preserve Visitor Center, the Kirby Nature Trail is the most popular trail in the park. The trail is a figure eight, allowing you to do two small loops or one big loop before returning home. Make sure to add this to your vacation destinations in Texas for this year!

I took the left loop to see the slough, though it was dry during my November visit. If you do the left side and go clockwise, you’ll also reach a bridge with a creek below it. While you can keep hiking further in for more solitude, we stopped here and headed back.

Cooks Lake to Scatterman Paddling Trail

This was the highlight of the Texas road trip and one of the places to see in East Texas and Big Thicket National Preserve. This paddling trail is among the top-ranked in the United States, and for a good reason. We spent over three hours in the water and saw one other kayak and two boats. I call that a perfect day in nature. Our loop brought us next to hundred-year-old Cyprus’ stunning fall colors and magical, dreamy reflections. And best of all, it’s not hard. The water is calm and easy to navigate in the river and swamp. If you want to get your family into nature, this is the place to do it.

Our route: We went clockwise from our launch point at the Confluence Boat Ramp. I recommend working with Gerald at Big Thicket Outfitters . He will give you all the details you need for a perfect outing. In all, it was $100 for two kayaks. More than reasonable, in my view.

After kayaking for hours in Big Thicket National Preserve, we were starving and headed to Beaumont and grabbed some food at JWilson’s. (The habanero jelly pork belly put me on cloud nine).

Village Creek Paddling Trail

This is another classic Big Thicket paddling trail and an East Texas gem, but we didn’t get a chance to do it. The route is 21 miles, but it’s a chose-your-own-adventure style, and you can go however far you want to. You can rent from the Village Creek State Park staff if you do this one.

Related: Finding Gators in Texas

Gator Swamp Tour

When you’re near gators, you might as well make sure you see some! To make this happen, we headed east to Orange, TX, for our gator swamp tour with Swamp and River Tours . It’s about 25 minutes of easy highway driving from Beaumont.

I wasn’t sure what to expect, but by the end of the tour, I was enamored with the alligators and thankful we could swing the trip. I’d never seen a huge gator before, but the last one we saw was more massive than I could imagine.

Seeing it so close was striking. Again, for the two of us, it was $100, including tip.

What to do in East Texas – 4-Day Texas Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Land in Houston. Grab BBQ for lunch. Check into the hotel. Visit Buffalo Bayou Park for sunset. Then, head to dinner at Southern Yankee Beer, Co.

Day 2 : Let”s start our Texas road trip. Grabbed breakfast to go from Snooze. Drove 70 minutes north to Huntsville State Park, where we hiked and photographed. Headed south 15 minutes to the Lone Star Hiking Trailhead #6. Drove 100 mins to the Big Thicket National Preserve and our lodging, Cabins in the Thicket . (You can find other nearby hotels here .)

Day 3: After waking up before sunrise, we drove an hour to our paddling trip near Vidor, TX. Enjoyed lunch at JWilson’s in Beaumont. Checked out the Big Thicket National Preserve Visitor Center and hiked the Kirby Nature Trail. Grabbed dinner at Mama Jack’s. (Seafood buffet… I hope you like fried foods!)

Day 4: Final day of our Texas road trip. Headed to Village Creek State Park for a quick walk. Drove 50 minutes to the Swamp and River Tours, which lasted 90+ minutes. Then we returned to Houston for our flight out.

Wrapping up my Texas road trip guide

While I love my mountains and alpine lakes, I’ve been looking for new destinations and unique experiences, and exploring these East Texas gems sure fits the bill. These places to see in East Texas will give you tons of photographs, memories, and hopefully a couple of gators too!

Now that you know what to do in East Texas, it’s time to book your adventure! I know you’ll have a great time finding solitude and connection with nature while on your Texas road trip.

Until next time adventurers, take care and be safe.

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The Ultimate Texas Road Trip

By Meredith Carey

The largest city in the state lives up to the “everything’s bigger in Texas” adage, and that doesn’t just mean in size: The art scene in Houston has exploded in the last decade, turning it into a cultural center full of museums, like the Menil Collection , and art exhibits, like [James Turrell’s “Twilight Epiphany” at Rice University . And, while Austin may be home to some of the best taco joints and craft breweries in the state, Houston is on its way up, with a massive beer hall at Saint Arnold Brewing Co. and Underbelly , a 180-seat restaurant that serves a daily menu of locally raised meats, seafood, and seasonal produce.

San Antonio

San Antonio is known to most as the home of the Alamo and Riverwalk. But outside of the tourist hotspots, there’s plenty to enjoy (and eat). The city’s Pearl District should be your starting point, with home base at the offbeat Hotel Emma, , which itself is plenty of reason to visit San Antonio. Test out some Tex-Mex street food at the nearby La Gloria, which specializes in tacos al pastor , ceviches, and tlayudas , a sort of open-faced taco covered with refried beans, meat, cheese, and more.

Distance from Houston: 190 miles

On the way to Austin, make a lunch pit stop in Lockhart. It may be a little out of the way, sure, but this town of around 13,000 houses some of the best barbecue in the world . With three standout barbecue restaurants, you’ll have to leave your ego at the door and join the ranks of brisket and rib enthusiasts eating with their hands off butcher paper “plates.” Stop at least one joint from the town’s holy trifecta: Kreuz Market , Black’s Barbeque , or Smitty's Market . Remember: true Texans eat their brisket sans sauce, so try to refrain from asking for any .

Distance from San Antonio: 70 miles

It’s no surprise that the Texas capital is the fastest-growing city in the U.S. To make sure you make it to the best of the nearly-all outstanding restaurants, shops, and bars that Austin has to offer, plan a few days in for this stop. Start at Hope Outdoor Gallery (pictured), and make sure to pick up a can of spray paint on the way to this outdoor graffiti free-for-all, that offers incredible views of Austin. Then, try Whip In, the Tex-Mex-meets-Indian restaurant that serves goat sliders with jalapeño on naan (we’re drooling already). Come evening, there’s only one place to be: Rainey Street , Austin’s own cocktail row. Fit in a shopping trip down South Congress when you can, making sure you don’t miss Uncommon Objects , a veritable treasure trove of antiques—and taxidermy. If you’re visiting in the summer, cool off in the natural Barton Springs Pool , a local summer hotspot in Zilker Park, Austin's own version of Central Park.

Distance from Lockhart: 35 miles

Laura Kiniry

Stacey Lastoe

Jemima Sissons

Fredricksburg

Next up: Texas… wine country ? Surprisingly, the state’s Hill Country is a prime climate for vineyards, and Fredericksburg is at the center of it all. Drive down Highway 290 between Austin and you’ll come across 15 wineries. Take your pick, but drink in moderation—you have a long drive ahead, after all. If you’re not ready to leave the bluebonnet hills just yet, spend a night at Hotel Flora and Fauna and stargaze from the pool.

Distance from Austin: 78 miles

Not for the faint of heart, Big Bend National Park is a national treasure hidden in the south west corner of Texas. If you'd rather drive through the park and have ten hours to spare (though you'll need a truck or an SUV), take the River Road, which follows the course of the Rio Grande. Stops at the Mariscal Mine and Glenn Springs are a must, with stunning views of the park's canyons. If you're up for a moderately difficult hike, try the Window Trail. At 5.6 miles round-trip, the hike can be done in a day, and drops you in the middle of a large rock canyon that cuts through the rim of the Chisos Mountains.

Distance from Fredericksburg: 357 miles

Marfa has become a bucket list trip for anyone who's tapped into culture. Here, there are 16 galleries, one for every 124 residents of this isolated town, in addition to the Chinati Foundation , which holds hundreds of works by Dan Flavin, John Chamberlain, Donald Judd, and more. The key to tackling Marfa is timing, as restaurants have odd hours and can be closed unexpectedly. Your best bet falls between Thursday and Sunday, though there will still be one or two stores or galleries closed during that time. Recently, the town received its first full service hotel, the Hotel Saint George, though budget-conscious and adventurous travelers should look into spending the night in a teepee at El Cosmico . Our editors' advice? Try out whichever of these restaurants is open: Marpho, a Vietnamese bánh mì and pho emporium, or Planet Marfa , which serves up a mean plate of nachos.

Distance from Big Bend National Park: 98 miles

El Paso is the last stop on this trip, unless you'd like to add on an additional trip to White Sands National Monument. Drop off your rental car with one pit stop, up the Wyler Aerial Tramway for sweeping views of El Paso and its sister city, Juarez, Mexico.

Distance from Marfa: 194 miles

Optional: White Sands

We know, we know: White Sands National Monument isn't in Texas. It's in neighboring New Mexico. But after all of that driving, how could you miss out on surfing down otherworldly sand dunes? Try to go early in the morning, as these dunes heat up quickly during the day.

Distance from El Paso: 96 miles

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

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

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

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

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

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Why Roadtrip in Texas?

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

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

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

The Ultimate Texas Road Trip – 6 days

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

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

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

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

Road Trip Highlights:

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

Day 1: Austin to San Antonio (1.25 hours)

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

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

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

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

Day 2: San Antonio and the Hill Country 

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

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

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

Day 3: San Antonio to Houston (3.5 hours)

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Houston to Dallas (3.5 hours)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

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

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

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

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

Day 1: San Antonio to Fredricksburg (2 hours)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Renting a Vehicle in Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road Rules in Texas

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

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

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

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

Insurance in Texas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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

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

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Texas Road Trip Ideas For The Ultimate Getaway

Here are eight Texas road trip ideas for the ultimate getaway. 

Texas is a big state. It’s huge. Drive 12 hours out from Amarillo in the direction of Brownsville and you’ll still be in Texas. The landscape will shift. So will the food. But at the end of the day, it’s all Texas to the core. 

In the past five years of living in Texas, I’ve traveled north-and-south, east-and-west in search of the best small towns , quirky bookstores, fall colors, and spring hikes ( a little bit of anything and everything ). 

These are the routes I travel again and again whenever I get a chance because they’re the ones that make my jaw hit the wheel every time. 

So if you’re looking for the ultimate Lone Star getaway, here are eight Texas road trip ideas to try. 

Table of Contents

East Texas Road Trip

There are two times a year that strike the sweet spot of the perfect East Texas Road Trip: the start of summer ( June, July ) and the midst of fall ( October ). 

Make your way to Caddo Lake, the only natural lake in Texas, on a weekend . Caddo is swampland. Tall trees. Murky waters. Alligators. It’s a bit eerie but also beautiful ( book a swamp tour in advance ). 

From Caddo, head to nearby Jefferson. Jefferson is a pre Civil War small-town – quaint, old-world, charming. There’s a Gone With The Wind Museum and antique stores by the dozen. 

As Jefferson pulls into Longview, the landscape slowly shifts. The trees are still tall but the hills begin the curve upwards and downwards ever-so-slightly and by the time you land in Love’s Lookout near Jacksonville , they roll. 

Stop by Tyler in between for a cup of joe and a stroll around the Tyler Rose Garden . If your getaway coincides with the cusp of June, take a day trip to Edom and pick your own fruit at Blueberry Hill Farm & Nursery. 

Panhandle Road Trip

If you’re looking for a spirit of Texas road trip – the kind of long drive that could sit on the tongue of a Cormac McCarthy novel but doesn’t skip on modern conveniences – head to the Panhandle.

The Panhandle is the top west corner of Texas. It’s where you’ll find meaty Southern foods ( lots of chicken fried steak ) and quirky roadside attractions ( like Cadillac Ranch ). 

The towns spread thin across The Panhandle are mostly ghost towns. But Amarillo, once a stop on Route 66, is a great weekend escape unto itself. 

Thirty minutes south of Amarillo is the entrance to Palo Duro Canyon State Park , home of the second-largest canyon in the United States. The park’s scenic byway traces through flatlands that plunge and rise into jagged drops and cliffs. 

If you want to stretch your legs a little, opt for a hike along the popular Lighthouse Trail before hitting the road again. 

North Texas Road Trip

If nature isn’t your groove, consider a North Texas road trip. North Texas is a hub of bigger cities and bigger suburbs and bigger towns. Most of your trip will be concentrated in-and-around the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex (DFW) . 

So if you can, start in Dallas. Spend a morning exploring the big-name museums – DMA, Crow Collection, Perot – before slipping into Bishop Arts District come evening. 

Then, depending on your interests, stretch your drive out to the neighboring suburbs – Carrollton for a slice of Korean culture , Frisco for sports , Grapevine for the holidays. 

Spend a night in Texas’ favorite cowtown ( when in Texas ). With an incredible number of free art museums and of course, the Stockyards , Fort Worth is a must-see. Drive further out to either Weatherford ( during peach season ) or Granbury ( for lakeside beaches ). 

Nature-lovers, squeeze in a few hours at Dinosaur Valley State Park , where there are real dinosaur prints etched under the Paluxy River. And continue up north until Wichita Falls for a taste of something a little different ( if you’re willing to zig-zag, roll by Paris and Decatur as well ).

P.S. In the spring, add Irving and Ennis to take in all the bluebonnets . 

Hill Country Road Trip

Hill Country is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parts of Texas. 

Across lush green hills colored by wildflowers in the springtime, Hill Country is tightly packed with European-influenced small towns .

Crescent curve Willow City Loop. Spend a night in Fredericksburg ( compare hotel prices here ), another in Wimberley, a third in Luckenbach ( followed by a Stonewall stopover ). Hike Pedernales Falls and Enchanted Rock . Go glamping in Eden.

Nights in town and days outside is the hum of a Hill Country Texas road trip.

P.S. In several parts of Hill Country, the signal isn’t great. You’ll want to keep some offline maps on hand.

Gulf Coast Road Trip

At the start of last year, in the cooler winter months, I went on the ultimate Texas road trip – tracing the Gulf Coast.

I thought finding good beaches in Texas would be a challenge but after a night in Galveston ( compare hotel prices here ), I stopped by Victoria and Fulton and Rockport and Aransas Pass and Corpus Christi and changed my mind.

Three hours further down is South Padre Island, the mother of all Texas beaches ( compare hotel prices here ). South Padre is known as a spring break destination but as years go on, it’s evolving into an off-season family-friendly spot. 

From gray waters to clear blue waves, you’ll see the tune of Texas beaches change from calm to rough to calm to rough again as you drive along the Gulf Coast. 

Texas BBQ Road Trip

If you’re a foodie planning a Texas road trip, consider all the BBQ spots in Central Texas. 

With long lines that stretch hours and hours , each stop will easily knock off a day ( or at the very least, a half-day ). 

Most of Texas’ BBQ scene lies right outside of Austin. And Franklin Barbecue is the place to start. 

Aaron Franklin’s day begins at 2 in the morning. He’s a James Beard winner and a man on a mission to serve some of the juiciest ( and tastiest ) meats in the USA. 

After experiencing Franklin’s menu, head to Driftwood for a chance to try the ever-popular Salt Lick BBQ. 

And if you’re vegan, don’t worry. BBQ Revolution is an Austin food truck that dishes out no-meat Texas-style BBQ eats . 

Missions Trail Road Trip

Drive to buildings now faded ( but still active ) along the Missions Trail in San Antonio.

Begin at The Alamo , a UNESCO World Heritage Site , an attraction just a few steps away from the ever-popular River Walk .

If you want a mini Texas road trip in San Antonio , follow the Mission Trail from The Alamo to Mission Concepcion to Mission San Jose to Mission San Juan Capistrano to Mission Espada.

And if you only have time to hit up a select few, drive to Mission San Jose first. It’s the largest of the missions with sprawling grounds and ornamental walls. Follow up with Mission Concepcion, the only unrestored church in the United States . Like Mission San Jose, Mission Concepcion is old and worn but it’s darker and grainier, like a scene from a black and white movie.

West Texas Road Trip

For a road trip that looks like it’s plucked straight out of a John Wayne flick, West Texas is all things raw and wild and wonderful.

The roads are long and straight and empty. And for the most part, the towns are sparse. Eventually, you’ll hit artsy chic gems like Marfa and the every rugged Terlingua.

A West Texas road trip comes into play if you’re planning on driving out to Big Bend, a National Park on every Texan’s bucket list ( though few have made the drive as it takes so long to get there from most major cities and is far from a reasonable weekend getaway ).

You’ll need at least a week in West Texas to meander past the rough-and-tumble landscape and savor it all.

And when you finally make it to Big Bend, take a little day trip to Boquillas, Mexico . You won’t regret it.

Did you find these Texas road trip ideas useful? What’s your favorite Texas road trip getaway? Let me know in the comments below!

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

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21 Amazing & Incredible Road Trips in Texas

Looking for the best road trips in Texas?

With its vast distances, far-flung cities as well as natural areas, and offbeat roadside attractions, the Lone Star State is one of the best road trip destinations in America.

Here you will find several unforgettable road trips, scenic drives, and backcountry gems.

Also Read: Best Weekend Getaways in Texas for 2022

Texas promises the ultimate vacation for road trip lovers.

Whether you want a themed road trip like the best barbeque joints or a family trip to natural attractions or a drive down the best beaches in the state, Texas has the ultimate road trip for you!

Discover the best road trips in Texas in this epic guide!

Also Read: Texas to California Road Trip Itinerary

Best Texas Road Trip Ideas – Long Distance Trips!

Planning a long distance road trip around Texas?

The state is so vast and spread out that you can easily spend two to three weeks planning a road trip to Texas and still not see it all!

The 7 regions of Texas make excellent road trips in themselves as do the major attractions in Texas.

Here are our favorite places to road trip in Texas in a week or more.

Also Read: 20+ Best Spots to Watch 2024 Solar Eclipse in Texas

Highlights of Texas Road Trip

If you can visit Texas only once, then use this itinerary!

Our Best of Texas road trip will take you through the highlights of the state.

From the megacities of Dallas and Houston to the lovely San Antonio River walk, explore the best places to visit in the state in one epic Texas road trip. 

Begin your trip in Dallas at the historic Dealey Plaza.

The Sixth Floor museum is a must visit – this is where the assassination of JFK took place.

Next, enjoy the cultural heart of Dallas by visiting the museum district.

See the dinosaurs at Perot Museum of Nature and Science. Art lovers should visit the Dallas Museum of Art.

Enjoy the nightlife in Deep Ellum and the trendy vibe of Bishops Arts District.

Up next, Fort Worth.

Fort Worth is home to the Fort Worth Stockyards.

This is your chance to admire the cowboy side of Texas.

Plan your visit to see the daily cattle drives as well as mock shootouts.

Two step at Billy Bobs and eat the famous Texas bbq. Buy western hats and boots while you’re there!

Then drive down to lively Austin.

Tour the magnificent Texas State Capitol building made of pink granite. Visit the museums and walk around Lady Bird lake.

Enjoy the city’s nightlife and music scene.

Austin is the live music capital of Texas and you can find events as well as performances happening almost everywhere in the city.

San Antonio

Make the short drive south to San Antonio.

Begin your trip at the Alamo where the famous Battle of Alamo took place.

The Spanish Mission is an iconic part of the rich Texas history.

After Alamo, visit the city’s second most popular attraction of the San Antonio River Walk.

Dine at the River walk restaurants and take a stroll on the paved paths. Take a boat trip down the river.

Finally, it’s time to drive east to Houston.

Marvel at the exhibits in Johnson Space Center and enjoy the culinary scene of Houston on Westheimer Road. 

Finally, spend some time relaxing on the beach at Galveston.

If you have more time you can even drive down the Gulf Coast to Mustang Island or South Padre Island or head to West Texas and Big Bend. 

To plan this trip down to the details, read our Ultimate Texas Road Trip Itinerary now.

West Texas Road trip to Big Bend National Park

West Texas is one of the least visited regions of the state and has spectacular natural attractions and desert scenery. 

The West Texas road trip is a delight for those who love off the beaten path attractions.

The highlight of this trip is, undoubtedly, Big Bend National Park.

This is one of the most beautiful national parks in America.

It has many attractions such as hiking in the Chisos mountains, paddling down the Rio Grande river, scenic drives, bird watching, and wildlife.

Santa Elena Canyon is amongst the best kayaking trails in Texas.

Apart from the national park, the Big Bend region also offers many other attractions for travelers.

Visit the quaint town of Alpine, visit the Gage gardens in Marathon, and also admire the unique art installations in Marfa.

Take a walk through the abandoned ghost town of Terlingua on a day trip and catch a magnificent sunset out in the desert.

The peak season to visit Big Bend National Park is from fall to spring when the weather is cool enough to make hiking in the desert a pleasure.

Big Bend and West Texas are the ultimate Texas road trip destinations in winter!

Our Most Popular Big Bend Road Trip Planners! Austin to Big Bend Road Trip Guide Houston to Big Bend National Park Trip Planner Dallas to Big Bend National Park Itinerary San Antonio to Big Bend Trip Itinerary

Gulf Coast road trip

Lighthouses and pristine Lone Star beaches !

This epic road trip down the Gulf Coast of Texas is definitely one for beach lovers.

On the way, you can explore some of the last remaining lighthouses along the Texas Coast….

…. splash and swim at beautiful beaches,

camp on the Texas beaches, and enjoy the sound of the waves pounding the coast at night. 

You can beach comb for seashells and shark teeth or watch out for dolphins and sea turtles.

Take a stroll in the charming Texas beach towns and cities by day and step inside a seafood shack for dinner at night.

Other activities include building sandcastles and horse riding on the beach at dawn.

Hands down, one of our favorite Texas road trips ever! 

Texas Hill Country road trip

The Texas Hill Country is one of our favorite regions of Texas.

The region is bounded by Austin in the east, San Antonio in the south, Llano in the north, and stretches west as far as Rocksprings.

There are many amazing things to do in the Hill Country for all ages.

Fredericksburg, a delightful town with German heritage is located in the heart of Hill Country. 

The region offers many attractions including stunning natural areas like Enchanted Rock and Hamilton Pool, romantic bed & breakfasts, cowboy ranches, barbeque joints, and charming small towns such as Brenham and New Braunfels . 

Caves and caverns, waterfalls and swimming holes, scenic drives, dinosaur tracks and fossils – the Hill Country has it all!

With its abundant wineries, vineyards, tasting rooms, and wine festivals, the region is also known as Texas wine country.

It is a favorite with wine lovers.

A road trip to the Hill Country is delightful in all seasons.

In spring, you can spot the famous Texas bluebonnets blooming all over the Texan countryside while in summer, you can beat the hot Texas sun by floating down the Guadalupe River.

See enchanting fall colors and attend events at wineries in autumn and see the holiday lights in the Hill Country at Christmas. 

Route 66 in Texas

If you are a fan of road trips, then you must drive along Historic Route 66 in the Texas Panhandle.

Route 66 is known as the Mother Road and extends from Chicago to Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles.

The Texas section of Route 66 crosses the panhandle and has plenty of unique road trip stops.

The road is 180 miles long and extends from Shamrock to Adrian. 

The U-Drop Inn in Shamrock was featured in the movie ‘Cars’.

Adrian marks the midpoint of the road and is home to the famous Midpoint Cafe.

This cafe is the inspiration for Flo’s V8 Cafe in the movie’ and also a must see photo op along the road. 

But the main attraction of Route 66 is in Amarillo .

See the Route 66 Historic District, visit the museums in Amarillo, then have dinner at the famous Big Texan Steak Ranch.

Here you will also find Cadillac Ranch : one of a kind art that features 10 vintage Cadillac cars painted in vibrant shades and hues!

The cars at Cadillac Ranch look simply fantastic and make for Instagram worthy shots.

A short way outside of Amarillo, off Route 66, you will find Palo Duro Canyon State Park .

Known as the Grand Canyon of Texas, the beautiful natural area of Palo Duro Canyon is worth the detour on your Texas panhandle road trip.

East Texas road trip to Caddo Lake

This classic road trip is a must for adventurers and outdoor explorers.

Make the trip out to the Texas Louisiana state border and go on an epic adventure at Caddo Lake State Park .

With its Spanish moss curtains, bald cypress trees that grow out of the shallow water, and hundreds of tree stumps all around you, Caddo Lake State Park is an enchanting place.

The best way to explore it is by kayaking the water trails.

The three small towns of Carthage, Marshall , and Jefferson are located quite close to Caddo Lake and are worth a visit.

At Carthage, you can visit the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.

See the beautiful Victorian architecture in Marshall before checking out the historic structures in Jefferson. 

Other attractions in the Piney Woods region of East Texas include the Sabine National Forest, the town of Port Arthur, and the Sea Rim State Park.

At Sea Rim, you will find one of the least crowded beaches along the Gulf Coast as well as saltwater marshes which are great for birdwatching.

If you are making the trip from Houston, then take the time to see Nacogdoches – one of the oldest towns in Texas!

Best Short Road Trips in Texas

These short Texas road trips are good to explore the major cities and their surrounding attractions and perfect if you have a long weekend in Texas.

Austin and Hamilton Pool Preserve

One of our favorite weekend road trips from Houston is to Austin and Enchanted Rock Natural State Area.

This road trip combines beautiful Hill Country views with unique roadside attractions and the urban attractions of Austin.

Austin is home to the University of Texas as well as the State Capitol building. 

Zilker Park is a great place to spend a day amidst lush green trees while Lady Bird Lake is great for paddling and enjoying downtown views.

Austin has many museums for culture lovers and is also a culinary destination.

To end your day, enjoy the nightlife on 6th Street or watch the bats fly under the Congress Bridge at sunset for a unique experience.

Also Read: Best Places to see Bats in Texas

A road trip to Austin cannot be complete without visiting the nearby city of Dripping Springs.

It promises a variety of outdoor experiences including the popular swimming hole of Hamilton Pool Preserve and the rolling vineyards of Hill Country.

You can also visit distilleries, breweries, and go horseback riding at a ranch in Dripping Springs.

San Antonio and Natural Bridge Caverns

Similar to the Austin road trip, this short road trip along I-10 offers plenty of fun attractions.

San Antonio is the #1 tourist destination in the Lone Star State and has a variety of things to do for visitors.

The Alamo, a former frontier Spanish Mission and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the top attractions in the city. 

The other most popular attraction is the iconic San Antonio River walk .

The River walk is a beautifully landscaped vibrant place with shops, restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.

You can cruise down the San Antonio River and learn more about the history of this beautiful city from tour guides. 

While you are visiting San Antonio, you should take the time to visit Natural Bridge Caverns.

Here you can explore two distinct cave systems of guided tours and see geological landforms such as stalactites and stalagmites.

The adjacent Natural Bridge Wildlife Safari is one of our favorite drive-through safaris in the state – kids can feed zebras and deer from the car in the park. 

Prehistoric road trip to Glen Rose

Glen Rose is one of the best places to visit in Texas with kids.

This underrated road trip has plenty of attractions and should be on the top of your Texas bucket list.

Glen Rose is home to 3 awesome kid-friendly attractions: Dinosaur Valley State Park, Dinosaur World, and Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. 

At Dinosaur Valley State Park, kids can walk and explore real dinosaur footprints that were left in the river bed millions of years ago.

It is amazing to see these huge footprints and walk in the steps of the giants.

Just outside of the state park, you will find Dinosaur World.

Here kids can see hundreds of giant dinosaur statues, dig for fossils, see dinosaur skeletons and fossils in the museum, and buy a variety of dinosaur-themed souvenirs. 

Nearby Fossil Rim Wildlife Center has a drive-through safari where kids can feed deer, zebras, ostriches, goats, and even giraffes right from the car!

Dallas and Fort Worth

The Dallas Fort Worth metropolitan area is vast and worthy of a long road trip in itself.

The region has plenty of historical attractions, cultural destinations, barbecue spots, and Wild West charm.

You will also find loads of outdoor areas, green spaces, and stunning natural attractions in the vicinity. 

Begin your trip in Dallas at the Sixth Floor Museum, which overlooks the Dealey Plaza.

Then explore the Dallas Arts District and it’s attractions including the Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas Museum of Art, and the Nasher Sculpture Center.

Take the time to explore the stunningly landscaped grounds of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens along White Rock Lake. 

If you can, attend the Texas State Fair. The event has many attractions for the whole family.

Spend the rest of your trip in Fort Worth.

If you are a fan of cowboys, rodeo, and the Wild West then you will love Fort Worth.

Begin your trip at the historic Fort Worth Stockyards.

This is cowboy country!

You can see cattle walking down the streets, visit the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, and experience a Wild West saloon at Billy Bob’s.

Fort Worth also has many other attractions such as the zoo, museums, and street art.

End your trip with a visit to Six Flags Fiesta theme park in Arlington .

To spend time outdoors, visit the Cedar Hill State Park or Fort Worth Botanic Garden.

These are perfect to spend the day out in the open with the entire family. 

Houston, Kemah, and Galveston

Explore the best of the Texas Gulf Coast region with this road trip to Houston and Galveston.

Along the way stop at Kemah and have fun at the boardwalk. 

Begin your trip by checking out the popular attractions in Space City.

See the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall fountain and the museums downtown.

If you have kids, visit the Houston Zoo, Children’s Museum, and the Butterfly Center.

Then tour the Johnson Space Center and see the Apollo 13 spacecraft. 

If you happen to visit during March, attend the famous Houston Livestock Show – the Rodeo !

Watch the downtown Rodeo parade , try carnival rides, and see the famous concerts.

Then take the trip out to Kemah.

The Kemah Boardwalk has many attractions for all ages.

Here you will find excellent waterfront dining, thrilling rides, a rainforest exhibit, and beautiful water views. 

For your final stop, relax on Galveston Island.

Take a stroll along the promenade and swim in the Gulf waters.

Relax on the beach and catch some sun – unless it’s summer! Enjoy the rides at the historic pleasure pier.

On hot summer days, see the beautiful Moody Gardens pyramids.

Dine on seafood and take the ferry to Bolivar peninsula to spot the dolphins swimming in the waters.

Rio Grande Valley & South Padre Island

Follow the epic US-83 south through Rio Grande Valley to the beautiful South Padre Island .

Along the road, in the valley, you will find beautiful fruit orchards and roadside stands selling fresh fruit. 

The valley is a favorite Texas winter vacation getaway for snowbirds from up north – these are known as the Winter Texans.

Go hiking through the marshes of the valley and on birding trails to see Texas’s amazing wildlife. 

End your trip in the Resort City of South Padre Island, only skip the spring break season!

While the island is home to the college population and beachside parties during spring break, it is perfect for families for the rest of the year.

Go horseback riding on the beach, learn to make a sandcastle, or just enjoy a day by the sea.

South Padre Island is our favorite weekend getaway in Texas. 

Brenham and Washington County

This makes the perfect short Texas road trip from either Dallas, Houston, Austin, or San Antonio.

While it’s most popular during the wildflower season, Brenham is great to visit year-round. 

Take a stroll in the town and see the historic architecture as well as beautiful homes on Main Street.

See the museums and beautiful murals in town. Shop for antiques and eat in local restaurants.

Brenham is romantic and charming, a perfect place for couples. 

Then see the other attractions in Washington County .

Explore the small town of Independence.

Visit the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site and see the place where the Declaration of Texas Independence was passed. 

Guadalupe Mountains road trip

Looking to explore hidden natural wonders in Texas?

Take a long road trip in southeastern Texas to the Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Up for an adventure?

Hike to the top of Guadalupe Peak and admire the Texan desert spread around you.

Looking for something less strenuous? Explore the park on scenic drive and family friendly hiking trails.

While you are there be sure to visit the city of El Paso and the Monahans Sandhills State Park.

El Paso is a booming frontier Texan town along the Mexico border. It has plenty of character.

See the city’s historic buildings and Spanish mission, shop in ethnic markets, and enjoy the cuisine.

The beautiful Franklin Mountains State Park is located at the center of El Paso and also worth a visit.

In Monahans Sandhills State Park, you can go sandboarding over the sand dunes.

Kids of all ages love this state park for the sand play opportunities.

Love caverns? Drive across the New Mexico border to see Carlsbad Caverns National Park!

Be sure to plan this road trip in the cooler fall to spring months as the region gets very hot during summer.   

Seasonal Texas road trips

In addition to these year-round road trip attractions, Texas also has many seasonal road trips.

In the fall, you can go on a beautiful road trip to see the fall colors. That’s right, Texas has fall colors! 

And in spring, you obviously need to go on a bluebonnet jaunt – search for those beauties and other flower fields including Indian paintbrushes and poppies along roadsides.

In the holiday season, drive to Grapevine – the Christmas Capital of Texas.

Meet Santa and play in the snow to ring in Christmas. 

And come summer, you can go on one of our favorite Texas road trips.

Load up your 4WD or RV with camping gear and go driving on 60 miles of sandy beach at Padre Island National Seashore near Corpus Christi.

Actually, you can even do this trip year-round!

Here are our favorite seasonal road trip inspiration ideas for travel in the Lone Star State. 

Texas fall colors trip

When you think of fall foliage and scenic drives, Texas doesn’t immediately come to mind.

You’d be surprised to know that Texas sports some of the most vibrant fall colors – if you know where to go!

Start this nature lovers road trip by hiking the beautiful Lost Maples State Natural Area, then enjoy fall colors from the water at Garner State Park.

Next head to Guadalupe River State Park for the most beautiful fall displays in Central Texas.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is also spectacular during the fall while in East Texas, the fiery reds and oranges are most beautiful at Tyler State Park.

With advance reservations and careful planning, you can visit these hidden gems together on an epic fall colors road trip. 

Also Read: Best Places to see Fall Colors in Texas

Fredericksburg and Willow City Loop wildflowers trip

Come spring, and nothing is more enchanting than the Texas Hill Country.

While the entire Hill Country is scenic and colorful during spring, it’s heart is the vibrant city of Fredericksburg and the unpaved Willow City Loop that is located just a few miles away. 

On the Willow City Loop, you will find cowboy boots, famous Texan ranch signs, beautiful homes, as well as simply stunning displays of the bluebonnets and other wildflowers including Indian paintbrushes.

You can take the iconic photos of cattle and horses among the flowers. 

Ennis Bluebonnet Trails

Ennis , located just a little over half an hour south of Dallas, is home to pretty and colorful bluebonnet hills in spring.

The town holds the Ennis Bluebonnet Festival, which is one of the major spring festivals in Texas.

Visitors from all over the world come to see the beautiful flowers.

There are assigned bluebonnet driving trails as well as audio tours to make sure you enjoy the blooming flowers.

There are other activities like concerts, barbeque cookoffs, and more to enjoy time in Ennis.

Christmas road trip to Grapevine

Grapevine is popularly known as the ‘Christmas Capital of Texas’ due to its over the top holiday decorations, the sheer number of Christmas themed events, and the vibrant holiday atmosphere.

The Great Wolf Lodge is an excellent place to stay, enjoy the snow, and have a fabulous Christmas vacation.

During the holiday season, Grapevine’s Main Street including the Town Square is resplendent with millions of lights and looks magical.

The town also has many holiday-themed events including the North Pole Express and is amazing to visit for the entire family. 

Beach camping trip to Padre Island National Seashore

Looking for a quiet beach away from the crowds on the Texas Gulf Coast? Looking for a budget friendly beach vacation?

Head down to Padre Island National Seashore near Corpus Christi.

Padre Island National Seashore is one of our favorite national parks in Texas.

It is located on the undeveloped barrier island of North Padre.

The national park has over 60 miles of beach area – South Beach – which is open for beach driving and primitive camping.

Camping here is an amazing experience. You sleep by the ocean in the shade of the sand dunes and wake up to seagulls soaring in the sky.

Other things to do at Padre Island National Seashore include birding trails, kayaking, windsurfing, as well as turtle hatchling release programs. 

Padre Island National Seashore is, undoubtedly, one of the best places to road trip in Texas!

Marble Falls

Marble Falls makes the perfect Hill Country road trip during spring.

If you have seen Ennis and Fredericksburg and want something new to visit this spring, then check out beautiful Marble Falls.

The road to Marble Falls goes through rolling hills and blooming bluebonnet fields. It looks enchanting in the spring. 

Downtown Marble Falls is a charming place to explore.

Shop in the boutique stores, browse through art galleries, and admire the sculptures on Main Street.

A must visit on the Marble Falls road trip is the iconic Blue Bonnet Cafe .

This eatery has existed for ages and is most famous for its pie.

The abandoned Bluebonnet House is also a must-see attraction during spring.

Turkey Bend Recreation Area in Marble Falls is awesome for mountain biking amidst the flower fields.

We hope you liked our ideas to plan the perfect Texas road trip.

Did we miss any cool places to road trip in Texas? Let us know in the comments.

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7 Perfect Texas Road Trips

By: Author texasonly

Looking for Texas road trips ?

Then you are in the right place!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Towns Include:

Fredericksburg

San antonio.

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

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

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

Begin your trip in the Texas State Capitol, Austin .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Route 66 Road Trip in Texas

Attractions on the road trip:

• Cadillac Ranch

Amarillo and Route 66

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Road Trips in Texas to the Gulf Coast

Cities Include:

Corpus Christi

South padre island.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. West Texas Road Trip

This road trip includes:

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

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

You definitely don’t want to miss it!

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

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

It will also have you exploring Texas history museums and eating some really great food.

Terlingua and Big Bend

Terlingua is an eccentric Texas town that is known as a Texas ghost town.

This tiny town is home to some quirky places to stay, some interesting roadside attractions, and a population of 50 people!

This is one of the best Texas road trips for outdoor lovers as it ends up in Big Bend National Park.

Big Bend National Park encompasses over 1,200 acres of land just waiting to be explored.

Take note though, this national park is known for its harsh environment, so be careful out there!

While in the area, don’t forget to visit Big Bend Ranch State Park also.

The largest state park in Texas, Big Bend Ranch has incredible views of the night sky, numerous hiking trails, and some incredible canyon views.

Another great small town in this area is Alpine, Texas .

5. El Paso Loop Road Trip

• Guadalupe Mountains State Park

The El Paso Loop road trip is probably one of those road trips that many people don’t really know about, but I am here to tell you it should be on your Lone Star State road trip list for sure.

This road trip will have you exploring the remote area of far west Texas, taking in some amazing views, and exploring the west Texas landscape.

Start out exploring Franklin Mountain State Park before visiting the attractions in town like the El Paso Museum of Art.

There are some great restaurants and lots of pretty murals around El Paso also.

You can leave the city and visit the Hueco Tanks State Park and see the unusual granite features that draw loads of rock climbers to this area.

Guadalupe Mountain State Park

About 1.5 hours from the Hueco Tanks State Park is the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, home to the world’s largest fossil reef!

The small town of Fort Davis is on this Texas road trip also.

Here you can explore Davis Mountain State Park, the Fort Davis Historic Site, and the historic downtown area.

6. Piney Woods of East Texas Road Trip

Cities include:

A road trip through the Piney Wood of East Texas is one of the best Texas road trips for nature lovers.

Drive a couple of hours east of Dallas -Fort Worth, and you will feel like you are in a totally different area of Texas.

The first stop here is the small town of Canton, Texas.

This little town is known for the world’s largest flea market that takes place here the first Monday weekend every month.

When they say the world’s largest flea market, they mean it.

The population of the town skyrockets during these weekends!

After exploring Canton, head to Tyler, Texas. Tyler has so many great restaurants, great shopping, and a fabulous lake.

They are also famous for their Tyler roses and are home to the largest rose garden in the United States.

Your final stop on the Piney Woods road trip is Longview.

Longview is a great place to visit in the fall as when the fall foliage takes over and covers this area.

Longview is also home to some great museums, restaurants, and cute shops.

This is also one of the best road trips for festival lovers as Longview is known to host several festivals throughout the year.

You can also do the Piney Woods Wine trail while in this area.

This wine trail has you visiting some of the great Texas wineries that call this region of Texas home.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the wineries in East Texas !

7. International Cities of Texas Road Trip

Castroville.

You don’t have to leave Texas to feel like you have traveled internationally thanks to the road trips in Texas that include the cities formed by international immigrants.

These towns are evidence of the diversity and culture of the people of Texas.

About 1.5 hours southwest of Fort Worth , you will find the small central Texas town of Dublin.

Dublin is a small Texas city that is big on personality and fully embraces its Irish culture.

While visiting, you can make your own soda at Dublin Bottling Works before you eat one of their delicious hamburgers at Doc’s Soda Shop which is located on-site.

Be sure to take your picture with the 4 leaf clover sign and the other murals you will find around town. You can also shop for Irish souvenirs at Things Celtic.

This fun store has everything from kilts to keychains.

While in Dublin, you have to visit Veldhuizen Cheese and taste some of the delicious homemade cheeses that are made.

The town of West is a small city about on hour south of Dallas .

West is best known for their amazing kolaches. That is thanks to the Czech heritage that shaped this town.

The best time to experience all things Czech is during their annual Westfest.

Westfest celebrates all things Czech!

Visitors to West during this festival get to enjoy dancing the polka to a live band, shop the many great vendors, and eat their heart’s fill of Czech food!

Immersing yourself in the German heritage of Fredericksburg is easy.

The German influence is everywhere in this city.

Start out by visiting Fredericksburg’s Pioneer Museum to see how the first German settlers lived. Here you can tour homes and see the artifacts from this era.

While here you can also drink some German beer and wine and eat some delicious German food.

A visit to Castroville, Texas will have you thinking you have been transported to a small town in the French countryside.

The half-timbered Steinbach Haus is the perfect place to start your journey.

This house was built in the early 1600s and was imported to Castroville!

This isn’t the only house though, there are examples of Alsatian architecture all over town.

Visit the boutique shops in town to find the perfect ‘French’ souvenir before grabbing a tasty treat from Haby’s Alsatian Bakery.

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About The Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel.  Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Jen | Local Love & Wanderlust

Saturday 8th of July 2023

Good reference, my inlaws moved to Texas - if we ever visit them this will come in handy.

Monday 10th of July 2023

Thanks for checking it out, Jen!

A Capone Connection

I'm going to be in San Antonio in September so this is super helpful. Thanks so much! I love road trips.

I'm so glad to hear this! I hope you have fun!

Saturday 17th of June 2023

These are so great! I went to Austin for a wedding a few years ago and had an awsome time checking out the music scene. I would love to spend more time there and do some Texas road tripping!

Sunday 18th of June 2023

Yes, Austin has an awesome music scent. Texas is a great place to road trip option. The sheer size means there are so many fun itineraries you can create!

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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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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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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.

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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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10 Scenic Texas Road Trips That Should Be On Your Bucket List

• Take a scenic 154-mile drive through rolling hills and pink granite domes in the Texas Hill Country, passing charming towns along the way.
• Travel from Dallas to Galveston for a beachy Gulf Coast road trip, exploring cultural attractions like Buffalo Bayou Park and Moody Mansion.
• Experience the peaceful and scenic 120-mile Bluewater Highway to Galveston, passing coastal bayous and fishing villages along the way.

With its sprawling deserts, hill country, pine forests, and gulf coast beaches, Texas offers some of the most scenic and diverse road trip routes in the South and the entire United States. From panoramic desert vistas to stunning mountain ranges and coastal drives to winding riverside routes, Texas offers ideal road trip terrain. Many wind through national and state parks to protect the state's natural beauty. Others travel back in time along historical routes. Travelers will traverse endless expanses of West Texas, beach towns lining the Gulf Coast, Hill Country vineyards, and more. Here are 10 scenic Texas road trips that should be on your bucket list.

Road Trip From Mineral Wells To Marble Falls

This 154-mile texas hill country drive showcases rolling hills, pink granite domes, and the brazos river.

This scenic 154-mile drive through the scenic Texas Hill Country region showcases rolling green hills, massive pink granite domes, and the clear waters of the Brazos River. Departing the town of Mineral Wells, the route winds through pastoral countryside dotted with livestock, old barns, and charming farmhouses on its way to Granbury on the shores of Lake Granbury. Stop and wander around picturesque Granbury Square, filled with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, before continuing on to the massive granite Pink Dome Wilderness Area. These huge pink granite dome structures rising from the green landscape are a stunning geological sight. Further along, cross the Brazos River en route to Marble Falls, a lively Hill Country town known for wineries, art galleries, festivals, and many charming things visitors can do in springtime .

• Distance : 154 miles
• Time to Drive: 3 hours 32 mins
• Top Attractions: Granbury Square , Lake Marble Falls
• Most Scenic Stops: Pink Dome Wilderness Area

Related: 10 Towns In Texas Hill Country To Add To Your Bucket List

Road Trip From Dallas To Galveston

Embark on a 288-mile gulf coast road trip, with stops at buffalo bayou park and moody mansion.

This easy 4-hour drive departs the big city of Dallas for island time on the Gulf Coast. Travelers can enjoy some of the free things in Dallas before departing, like touring the Dallas Museum Of Art . Follow Interstate 45 South as it crosses through open coastal prairies blanketed in bluebonnets in spring on its way to Galveston. Make a stop in Houston to explore the historic old town area of Buffalo Bayou, which is filled with unique shops, restaurants, and colorful street art. After grabbing a tasty bite, travelers can continue with their trip down the coast to the island city of Galveston.

• Distance: 288 miles
• Time to Drive : 4 hours 39 mins
• Top Attractions: Strand District , Moody Mansion
• Most Scenic Stops: Buffalo Bayou Park , Stewart Beach

Related: Road Trip Texas: What To Know About Driving From Austin To Dallas

Bluewater Highway

The peaceful 120-mile bluewater highway to galveston passes coastal bayous and lagoons along the intracoastal waterway.

The Bluewater Highway travels alongside the Intracoastal Waterway through marshy coastal bayous on its route from Palacios to Galveston. This is a peaceful, scenic detour off the busy highways. Travelers can spot a variety of coastal birds like great blue herons, pelicans, and egrets as they pass small waterfront towns and cross over salty lagoons and coastal lakes. Stop at public fishing piers and scenic pullouts to photograph fishing boats and those graceful birds in their natural habitat. Travelers should make sure to savor fresh gulf seafood straight from the docks in fishing villages and relax at a waterfront inn before ending their trip in beachy Galveston.

• Distance: 120 miles
• Time to Drive: 2 hours 52 mins
• Top Attractions: Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge , Smith Point
• Most Scenic Stops: Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive

This 30-mile big bend drive offers stunning views of the chisos mountains and santa elena canyon in an underrated national park.

Winding through the spectacular landscapes of Big Bend National Park, America’s most underrated National Park , this desert drive offers stunning views of the Chisos Mountains and Santa Elena Canyon. Travelers can depart the Chisos Basin, surrounded by rocky peaks and home to some of the park's best hiking trails, and watch as the craggy limestone peaks of the Chisos Mountains loom ever larger outside their window. Stop at scenic pullouts like Mule Ear Spring Overlook for panoramic views before reaching Santa Elena Canyon , a towering slit carved through sheer limestone cliffs by the Rio Grande River . At the end of the drive, take a short walk into the canyon along the Santa Elena Canyon Trail to view the massive 1,500-foot tall rock walls up close and see the emerald green Rio Grande passing through.

• Distance: 30 miles
• Time to Drive: 54 mins
• Top Attractions : Santa Elena Canyon , Chisos Mountains
• Most Scenic Stops: Mule Ear Spring Overlook

Big Bend National Park

Epic mountain and canyon scenery await on this massive 300-mile loop through the heart of remote west texas.

Big Bend National Park is seven hours from San Antonio and a six-hour drive from El Paso. Epic mountain and desert scenery await around a 300-mile drive through the heart of Big Bend National Park in far West Texas. Along the route, gaze up in awe at the steep 1,500-foot walls of Santa Elena Canyon and unique volcanic rock balance formations like Elephant Tusk and the Pinnacle. Make sure to stop and hike into oak and juniper-lined canyons like Grapevine Canyon to view its 100-foot waterfall before cooling off with a refreshing dip in the emerald waters of the Rio Grande. As the road winds on through the Chisos Mountains, admire the domed caprock peaks and the jagged reddish cliffs of the Rosillos Mountains. With stunning natural scenery around every corner, from massive canyons to forested high country, this is undoubtedly one of the most scenic drives in all of Texas.

• Distance : 336 miles
• Time to Drive: 6 hours from El Paso , 7 hours from San Antonio
• Top Attractions: Grapevine Canyon , Santa Elena Canyon
• Most Scenic Stops: Sotol Vista Overlook

Related: These Two Towns Are The Closest to Big Bend National Park

Road Trip From Austin To San Antonio

Connect austin and san antonio, two of texas’ most vibrant cities, on this 79-mile drive past the stunning hamilton pool.

Following sections of the historic El Camino Real trail used by Spanish explorers, this easy and scenic 79-mile trip connects two of Texas' most vibrant cities. Depart Austin, the funky and eclectic capital of Texas. Visitors can stop to hike the gorgeous Hamilton Pool Preserve, where they can swim in a pristine natural pool surrounded by limestone cliffs. Other highlights include strolling the charming old town square in New Braunfels and visiting historic German heritage sites like the Graf Haus.

• Distance: 79.30 miles
• Time to Drive : 1 hour 30 mins
• Top Attractions: Hamilton Pool Preserve , San Antonio River Walk
• Most Scenic Stops: Natural Bridge Caverns

Dallas-Fort Worth To Waco

Travel 113 miles from dallas to waco through rolling prairies and charming small towns like waxahachie and west.

Tracing sections of the old Chisholm Trail used by cowboys driving cattle to market, this scenic drive starts in the DFW Metroplex and passes through rolling open prairie, the Victorian architecture of Waxahachie, hills dotted with livestock, wildflowers in spring, and charming small towns. Travelers will meet all those scenic adventures on their way to Waco. Must-see stops include strolling through historic downtown Waxahachie and viewing the Depression-era murals at the Ellis County Courthouse depicting the area's history and heritage. Waco offers several things for travelers to do , including touring Magnolia Market, Chip and Joanna Gaines' home decor shop made famous by Fixer Upper, and learning about Texas history at the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.

• Distance: 113 miles
• Time to Drive: 1 hour 16 minutes
• Top Attractions: Magnolia Market , Texas Ranger Hall of Fame
• Most Scenic Stops: Chalk Ridge Falls

San Antonio To South Padre Island

Depart historic san antonio for endless beaches and breezy south padre island on this 297-mile coastal road trip.

This scenic coastal road trip departs historic San Antonio, home to San Antonio Missions National Historical Park , for the sunny beaches and tropical breezes of South Padre Island. Stop to explore the seaside village of Rockport, known for its art galleries and fresh seafood. Further south, spend some time in Corpus Christi touring the massive USS Lexington aircraft carrier museum.

• Distance : 297 miles
• Time to Drive : 4 hours 26 mins
• Top Attractions: Padre Island National Seashore , USS Lexington
• Most Scenic Stops : Mustang Island State Park

Related: 10 Things To Buy In San Antonio If You're Visiting For The First Time

Texas Castles Road Trip

Tour texas hill country’s castle attractions like stone castle, hangar hotel, and napa valley resort on this 242-mile fairytale drive.

Travelers can get their cameras ready for this route, traveling through the Texas Hill Country and visiting unique castle attractions and German-influenced towns. Start at Round Top's storybook Stone Castle, which was built purely as an art piece by an eccentric millionaire. Further along, stop in Luckenbach to see its historic old west dance hall before reaching Fredericksburg, which is home to some of the best vineyards . Here, travelers can tour the landmark Hangar Hotel , designed to resemble an old zeppelin hangar. Next up is the Celtic-inspired Driftwood Estate Winery & Vineyards, followed by the Bavarian-styled village of Gruene, settled by German farmers.

• Distance : 242 miles
• Time to Drive: 3 hours 46 mins
• Top Attractions: Gruene Historic District
• Most Scenic Stops: Hangar Hotel Stonehenge

Road Trip From Waco To Longview

This 174-mile trip from waco to longview explores busy interstates for quintessential small-town texas charm and scenery.

Traversing sections of rural Texas countryside characterized by gently rolling hills and open fields, this under-the-radar road trip departs Waco and journeys towards Longview in East Texas pine forest country. Stops include strolling around the charming historic town squares of Athens and Henderson, taking a refreshing dip in Lake Palestine, and touring elegant historic homes and museums highlighting the region's history and cultural heritage. Visitors will also find dinosaur tracks along the way! Explore beyond the busy interstates for a relaxing sampling of quintessential small-town Texas life.

• Distance : 174 miles
• Time to Drive: 3 hours
• Top Attractions: Lake Athens , Lake Palestine
• Most Scenic Stop s: Athens Town Square

23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

• 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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