Austin bustles with excitement every weekend (and every weekday!), but the capital city isn’t the only place with entertaining attractions. There are some endearing small towns near Austin to explore, as well as gorgeous landscapes and historic landmarks that dazzle visitors year-round. If your regular routine is wearing you down, the 10 best day trips from Austin will revitalize your spirit. You don’t need to travel far to find some much-needed relaxation. These mini-vacations are a magnificent way to explore off-the-beaten-path.

1. Gruene Hall
Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130, USA
Gruene Hall/Google
Gruene Hall, Texas' longest-running dance hall, is just aching for your grooving feet to join the fun. This city sparkles with unique shops, entertainment, and small-town charm.
2. Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg, TX 78624, USA
Chris Litherland/Wikipedia
Schnitzel, sausage, and chocolate-covered bacon await. Fredericksburg is known for its delicious delicacies and attractive boutiques. While you're in the area, why not spend a night at this lovely VRBO rental?
3. Waco
Waco, TX, USA
Larry D. Moore/Wikimedia
Tour the Dr. Pepper Museum or the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame. Waco, Texas has its fair share of attractions.
4. New Braunfels
New Braunfels, TX, USA
Nicolas Henderson/Flickr
Make a splash in New Braunfels! Home of Schlitterbahn Water Park and the stunning Guadalupe River, this Central Texas city is a scenic place to cool off.
5. Lockhart
Lockhart, TX 78644, USA
Antony-22/Wikipedia
You can't pass up on the chance to visit the BBQ capital of Texas. Munch on some sausage at Kreuz Market or chow down on some brisket at Black's. No matter where you eat, you'll leave feeling full and satisfied. Lockhart is more than just tasty barbecue, though. It's a fun place to explore, too.

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6. Marble Falls
Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
Wil C. Fry/Flickr
Visiting Sweet Berry Farm is an autumn tradition everyone should try. No matter when you choose to visit the city, however, Marble Falls has plenty to offer. The Hidden Falls Adventure Park will get your adrenaline pumping, and Save The World Brewing Company will help you unwind.
7. San Marcos
San Marcos, TX, USA
Marilyn Brinker/Flickr
Explore the depths of Wonder World Cave or check out the antique cars at Dick's Classic Garage Car Museum. No matter how you decide to spend the afternoon, you're sure to have a lovely getaway in San Marcos.
8. San Antonio
San Antonio, TX, USA
Pedro Szekely/Flickr
Spicy chips and salsa and tangy margaritas will greet your tastebuds at the San Antonio Riverwalk. You'll beam with Texas pride as you walk through the historic halls of the Alamo.
9. Johnson City
Johnson City, TX 78636, USA
Marilyn Brinker/Flickr
Home to former president Lyndon Baines Johnson, Johnson City is full of attractions for your day-tripping delight. It will feel so great to escape the capital city's congestion for a day.
10. Wimberley
Wimberley, TX, USA
Josh Sullivan/Flickr
Wimberley, Texas is a stunning getaway. With fine wineries and relaxing creeks speckling the scenery, you'll return home feeling rejuvenated.

Which day trips around Texas will you do first? What would you add to this list? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

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More to Explore

Best Day Trips From Austin

Tori Jane | July 20, 2022

What are some truly unique things to do around Austin?  

Here are some unique places to visit near Austin:

  • Pick peaches in Fredericksburg
  • Float along the San Marcos River
  • Experience small-town charm in Smithville
  • Eat BBQ in Lockhart

 

Austin, Texas seems to get overlooked in favor of larger cities like Dallas and Amarillo, but we think that’s kind of sad – it deserves so much more! There are loads of truly unique things to do around Austin, and we think you’ll love them as much as we do.

 

  • Check out the bizarre (but fun) Cathedral of Junk, which you’ll find a very interesting... well, cathedral of junk! It’s an oddity that requires a small donation to see, but it’s just quirky enough to be perfect.
  • Head to Zilker Park and check out the Zilker Botanical Garden, where you’ll find a woodland faerie trail that’s sure to become one of your favorite hiking trails in Austin.
  • Oh, and you can’t miss a visit to the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. We won’t say what happens when the sun goes down here... but it’s definitely worth witnessing.  

Where can I go on fun day trips near me?  

The best day trips near Austin are:

  • McKinney Falls State Park
  • Hamilton Pool
  • Shop in Wimberley

 

Austin is in a great spot within close range of all kinds of excellent day trip options. Some of the best state parks in Texas are close to Austin and make for the PERFECT day trip adventure.

 

  • One of our favorites is the breathtaking Hamilton Pool, which is only 45 minutes from the city and features one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Austin (if not in all of Texas). It’s so popular that you’ll need to get a permit to explore it, but we promise it’s worth the effort.
  • We’re also obsessed with Palmetto State Park, which is nestled along the San Marco River and feels so tropical you’ll think you’ve left Texas for Florida! 


What are some amazing getaway spots near me?  

The best getaway spots near Austin are:

  • Jacob's Well in Wimberley
  • A trip on the Austin Steam Train
  • Exotic Resort Zoo in Johnson City

 

Who says there’s nothing fun to do in Austin (and its surrounding areas)? We sure don’t, and for good reason: there are some amazing getaways in Austin you’ll fall head over heels in love with, and you won’t want to miss them.

  • Some of our favorite getaway destinations in Texas are in or around Austin, like Barons Creekside Resort, in Fredericksburg. It’s a quiet escape from city life that features 26 acres of gorgeous greenery, a crystal-clear creek, and more. Sit beside the water with your person and listen to your troubles melt away.
  • Another excellent getaway spot near Austin is just 45 minutes away at the beloved Creek Haven Inn, which is another creekside getaway in Texas that you’re sure to love.  

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