The Friendly Small Town In Texas That's Perfect For A Summer Day Trip
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 10, 2023
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Katie Lawrence
Author
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).
If you’re in the midst of planning your summer getaways for this year, might I suggest adding Lago Vista to your list? This charming small town is just a stone’s throw away from Austin, yet it feels lightyears away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Boasting gorgeous scenery, direct access to Lake Travis, great food, nearby wineries, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet, Lago Vista is one of the best summer day trips in Texas. I just know you’ll fall in love with the town and want to come back every year!
Welcome to Lago Vista! While the city's population has grown to around 9,000 since this photo was taken, the fact still remains that it is a charming small town perfect for a day trip (especially during the summertime!).
Tucked away on the northern shores of the beautiful Lake Travis, Lago Vista offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the Austin metro despite being only 20 minutes away from the Capital City.
Since we're trying to pack as much fun as possible into a single day, some java is definitely in order. Latte Vista Cafe & Coffee Shop uses 100% fair trade coffee, and it's every local's choice for grabbing their morning cup of joe.
Latte Vista Cafe & Coffee Shop, 20520 Farm to Market Rd 1431 B, Lago Vista, TX 78645, USA
The abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities in and around Lago Vista are what make it especially worth visiting during the summer. Arkansas Bend Park, for example, is a 323-acre hidden gem that offers direct access to Lake Travis for swimming, boating, fishing, and more.
Arkansas Bend also offers several multi-use hiking trails, picnic tables, a playground, and BBQ grills, so you could easily spend a few hours having fun in the sun without getting bored.
Arkansas Bend Park, 16900 Cherry Ln, Lago Vista, TX 78645, USA
There's a good chance you'll be starving after a full morning of outdoor play, so refuel with a hearty lunch at The Bunker Bar and Grille, which is located within the Lago Vista Golf Course complex.
A mere seven miles to the northwest is where you'll find Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, which, at over 33,000 acres, is one of the nation's largest urban preserves. Boating numerous hiking trails and providing a habitat for several endangered species, this secluded treasure will make you feel like you're the last person on earth.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, 24518 Ranch Rd 1431, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
The winery also has an on-site restaurant, Ellera, that is the perfect place for a Tuscan-inspired dinner. Enjoy pizza, pasta, and fine steak and seafood in an elegant, yet rustic setting.
Flat Creek Estate Winery & Vineyard, 24912 Travis Peak Trail, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
Have you ever visited Lago Vista? If so, do you think it’s one of the best summer day trips in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more day trips in Texas that are perfect for any time of year.
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