If you’re anything like us, you’ve likely wondered, “what are the best day trips near me in Texas?” Fortunately, we’ve done the research and have pinpointed some of the best attractions in the Lone Star State. Of course, not all of us have the luxury of being able to take a week or more off of work for vacation, each of the following can be accomplished as a day trip. Without further ado, here are 10 of the best day trips in Texas that will make you feel like you’ve been gone much longer than 24 hours:

1. Round Top
Round Top, TX 78954, USA
Flickr/john_f
Round Top is a sleepy little town between Houston and Austin. At first impression, it might seem like an ordinary Texas small town, but it's hiding something absolutely incredible. Learn more about planning your trip to Round Top.
2. Mustang Island
Mustang Island, Texas, USA
Flickr/gruenemann
Texas beaches aren't known for being the prettiest, but you can find diamonds in the rough if you know where to look. Mustang Island, an 18-mile stretch of land near Corpus, has white sand, pristine water, and is never crowded. You'll feel like you've escaped to a faraway tropical paradise. Mustang Island is one of the very best beaches in Texas.
3. Balmorhea State Park (Toyahvale)
Balmorhea State Park, 9207 TX-17, Toyahvale, TX 79786, USA
Flickr/Angi English
This park contains the world's largest spring-fed swimming pool, holding a whopping 15 million gallons of water - not to mention the surroundings are breathtaking. Learn more about why Balmorhea State Park belongs at the very top of your Texas bucket list.
4. Barton Springs Pool (Austin)
Barton Springs Municipal Pool, 2201 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746, USA
Flickr/wallyg
Barton Springs Pool is the best of both worlds: it has the cleanliness of a swimming pool yet the water is spring-fed and riddled with aquatic plant life and minnows. It will definitely be one of the most unique swimming experiences you've ever had.
5. Hamilton Pool (Dripping Springs)
Hamilton Pool, Texas 78620, USA
Flickr/darrellrhodesmiller
There's a reason we've covered Hamilton Pool so many times; it's simply impossible to overdo such a breathtaking place. We dare you to find a scene more reminiscent of a Disney movie. Learn more about what makes Hamilton Pool such a magical place to visit.

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6. Flat Creek Estate Winery & Vineyard (Marble Falls)
Flat Creek Estate Winery & Vineyard, 24912 Travis Peak Trail, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
Yelp/Keri B.
Wine is a big deal here in Texas. The Hill Country is full of expansive vineyards offering full-bodied, robust wines that you can't find anywhere else. Flat Creek Estates is one of the best - it's secluded, relaxing, and will remind you of a rustic Tuscan villa. Flat Creek Estate might just be one of the best remote vineyards in Texas.
7. South Padre Island
South Padre Island, TX 78597, USA
Flickr/ritahogan
South Padre Island easily has the most gorgeous beaches in Texas, so combining that with the plethora of tourist activities available there makes it the perfect destination for your summer vacation. When it comes to fabulous island getaways in Texas, you can't do much better than a trip to South Padre Island.
8. Lockhart
Lockhart, TX 78644, USA
Yelp/David S.
Lockhart has arguably the highest concentration of good barbecue joints in the country. From Black's to Kreuz Market, Smitty's to Chisholm Trail, and several other amazing restaurants, you'll be hard-pressed to find better barbecue anywhere else. Ready to plan your trip to the barbecue capital of the world?
9. Alpine
Alpine, TX, USA
Flickr/roberthensley
Not many people know about Alpine considering how it's sort of hidden in the West Texas mountains, but that definitely needs to change. It's a quaint little town of less than 6,000 that will charm you instantly and make you never want to leave. This tiny Texas town is completely surrounded by natural beauty, and you just have to experience it for yourself.
10. The River Walk (San Antonio)
San Antonio, TX, USA
Flickr/roberthensley
The River Walk has been entertaining people for nearly a century with its vibrant Hispanic culture, amazing restaurants, and unbeatable scenery. This summer wouldn't be complete without a trip here, that's for sure. So if you find yourself near San Antonio and wondering, "what are some incredible day trips near me in Texas?" the famous River Walk might just be the ticket!

We hope we’ve provided some answers to the question, “what are some day trips near me in Texas?” What’s your favorite place to day trip to in our state? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!

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day trips near me in Texas

Beth C. | August 23, 2021

What are some other unique day trips in Texas?

In the list above, we featured some truly unique Texas adventures; however, we only scratched the surface of all that the Lone Star State has to offer. There are countless unique day trips in Texas that belong on your radar. For example, you can head underground and explore the epic Caverns of Sonora, which have been named as one of the most beautiful show caves in the world. Plus, this destination is conveniently located between two other unique day trips in Texas: Big Bend National Park and San Antonio. The ancient formations that make up the caverns of Sonora have been around for millions of years, and visiting them is a bit like stepping back in time. Learn more about the fascinating Caverns of Sonora. Other worthwhile day trips in Texas include the Alamo in San Antonio, Monahans Sandhills State Park, Lake Sam Rayburn, Brenham, Blanco State Park, and the Alabama-Coushatta Indian Reservation.

What are the best state parks in Texas?

Texas boasts some of the best scenery in the country and nowhere is that more apparent than our state parks. Some of the best state parks in Texas include Pedernales Falls State Park, Davis Mountains State Park, Franklin Mountains State Park, Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Caprock Canyons State Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Seminole Canyon State Park, Monahans Sandhills State Park, Garner State Park, Dinosaur Valley State Park, Colorado Bend State Park, and Inks Lake State Park. Learn more about planning a trip to some of the best state parks in Texas.

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