9 Incredible Trips Around Austin That Will Change Your Life

This pink granite rock in Fredericksburg is like nothing you've seen before. Bask in the blissful atmosphere. This lovely trip can be taken in one day, or you could spend the night at a cozy bed and breakfast.

Fans of HGTV's "Fixer Upper" will swoon over Chip and Joanna's pristine store in Waco, Texas. The rustic silos and open picnic areas will make your heart soar. Waco is only a quick 1.5 hour drive from Austin, so this stop is perfect for a day trip. If you want to extend your stay, visit the Dr. Pepper museum, suspension bridge, and the Waco Mammoth National Monument.

West Texas glistens with art and natural beauty, and Marfa is no exception. If you're a fan of the quirky and unusual, you'll fall head over heels for this one-of-a-kind city. Take the 6.5 hour drive. It's so worth it.

San Antonio becomes a colorful party every April for Fiesta, and you won't want to miss it. Full of parades, food, and Texas Pride, this annual event celebrates Texas' heroes.

Pull down your shades and sink your toes into the sand at Padre Island. You'll want to stay the weekend at this luxurious Texas beach.

The views at Palo Duro Canyon will drop your jaw. It's a bit of a hike from Austin, but you haven't lived until you've seen these majestic canyons. Are you ready for a road trip? Palo Duro Canyon is 7.5 hours north of Austin.

After strolling through Moody Garden's flashy aquarium, explore the Galveston pier! The twinkling lights will make you feel like a kid again.

From contemporary art museums to the Houston Space Center, there's no shortages of fascinating places to discover. Stay for a day or stay for a week! Houston is only a quick 2.5 hour drive from Austin.

You'll really feel like a Texan in the Fort Worth Stockyards. Stare at the longhorn cattle and watch an old fashioned rodeo. Fort Worth will have you saying "Yeehaw!" all weekend long.