10 Inexpensive Road Trip Destinations In Texas That Won’t Break The Bank
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Need a last-minute vacation idea for Thanksgiving or Christmas break? We’ve got 10! The following destinations are perfect places to visit year-round, but they really come to life during the holidays. Keep reading to see where you’re heading to first.
Free fun abounds in this vibrant, historic city. Tour the Alamo, find inner peace at the Japanese Tea Garden, or explore La Villita and take home treasures from merchants selling handmade jewelry, authentic Mexican garments, and everything in between. Plus, the River Walk will come alive with Christmas magic in just a few short weeks, and there's no charge to take an evening stroll!
Located along historic Route 66, Amarillo has plenty of unique activities that don't cost a cent. Leave your mark at Cadillac Ranch, then drive 40 minutes South to hike the trails of Palo Duro Canyon. Campsites start at just $26!
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Summer might be long gone, but there's still lots to do on the island that won't empty your wallet. The annual Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens begins next weekend, boasting a mile-long trail lined with dazzling displays and unparalleled views of the surrounding Galveston Bay. Tickets are just $15.95 for adults and $10.05 for children, and an extra $15 also lets you experience Ice Land, which is a massive frozen wonderland with over two million pounds of ice carved to look like popular TV characters, animals, plants, and even a giant ice slide.
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With temperatures beginning to drop, there's never been a better time to visit Big Bend. Do some hiking, visit the nearby towns of Terlingua, Alpine, and Marfa, and gaze at some of our country's darkest skies. You can camp at the park for just $14 per night!
Grapevine is the self-proclaimed "Christmas Capitol of Texas," with over 1400 festive events taking place over the next two months. Ride the North Pole Express for just $28.50, frolic through a Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer themed ice sculpture exhibit for less than $20, and marvel at Gaylord Texan Resort's 54-foot tall tree without spending a dime. Various parades are held throughout the season, and Main Street is completely decked out in holiday decor - neither of which cost anything to see!
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Lost Maples State Park easily has the most impressive fall foliage in Texas, and admission is just $6 for adults. After admiring the striking leaves, head over to The Apple Store in Medina for homemade pie and ice cream.
Texas' oldest town is bursting at the seams with cheap sights and attractions. Stroll through an azalea garden, tour the historic village of Millard's Crossing, and wander into a general store that has been around for more than 100 years.
This tiny East Texas town is the epitome of Texas charm. Visit several historic museums, landmarks rumored to be haunted, and even zip line through fall foliage in nearby Jefferson. An incredible drive-thru light display will be up soon in Athens, so plan your trip accordingly!
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In the heart of Texas Wine Country, Fredericksburg is a charming town with rich German heritage. Sample some fine vino while gazing out into the sprawling countryside, or perhaps tour the National Museum of the Pacific War and see exhibits like a replicated combat zone.
Mark your calendar for November 23, because that's when Johnson City's annual Lights Spectacular begins. Over one million lights span three city blocks, and admission is 100% free. Plus you'll be right near the otherworldly Pedernales Falls State Park, which has an entrance fee of just $6.
Have you been to any of these destinations during the holiday season? What other places would you add to this list?
Need more holiday cheer? Check out Here Are The Top 10 Christmas Towns In Texas. They’re Magical.
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