Summary
Austin, the trendy capital of Texas, is increasingly regarded as the southeastern counterpart to the San Francisco Bay Area.
The migration of talented tech professionals to this vibrant city suggests it possesses numerous appealing qualities.
This rapidly evolving state capital is highly attractive to young professionals, families, and others, offering exceptional dining options, a rich cultural scene, and, notably, remarkable day trip opportunities.
Nestled on the periphery of the Texas Hill Country and itself a cosmopolitan destination, Austin provides myriad options for theme parks, outdoor activities, and nature experiences, all within a short drive.
Here, we present fifteen of the most notable day trips from Austin:
1. San Antonio
San Antonio offers an abundance of activities, making it nearly impossible to experience everything in one day.
The destination caters to nature enthusiasts, history aficionados, and culture seekers while providing numerous engaging experiences for children.
The city hosts an array of museums, ranging from art galleries to interactive exhibits, and the Japanese Tea Garden provides a serene setting for a leisurely hour.
Visitors can stroll along the picturesque river, and the local zoo is noteworthy for its diverse range of animals.
2. Wimberley
Despite being a small town nestled in the Texas Hill Country, Wimberley boasts numerous attractions.
Renowned for its two picturesque swimming locations—Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole—and an abundance of natural wonders, Wimberley deserves a place on your day trip itinerary.
Don’t overlook the quirky yet delightful “Bootiful Wimberley” boot trail, a mapped journey showcasing 48 boot sculptures adorned by local artists throughout the community.
If visiting between March and December, consider a visit to the historic Wimberley Market held on the first Saturday of each month.
3. Johnson City
Similar to Wimberley, Johnson City offers a variety of attractions.
One standout feature is the Hill Country Science Mill.
This interactive science museum, set in an actual grist mill, encourages children’s curiosity through engaging and relevant exhibits.
Additionally, visitors can explore local breweries, distilleries, and wineries; partake in a guided safari at the nearby zoo; or enjoy the expansive natural areas found in the surrounding national and historic parks.
4. Waco
While it may seem an unusual destination, Waco’s primary attraction is the Dr Pepper Museum.
This venue is dedicated to the iconic soft drink and was the original bottling location from 1906 to the 1960s.
Visitors can explore various exhibits, including a nostalgic soda fountain, and purchase Dr Pepper-themed memorabilia.
For those less interested in soda, nearby Magnolia Market, highlighted on the popular HGTV show Fixer Upper, has also gained significant popularity.
Sports enthusiasts may appreciate a visit to the Texas Sports Hall of Fame as well.
5. Dripping Springs
Dripping Springs is rich in history and natural beauty that remains captivating.
Start with a stroll through the historic downtown district to appreciate the lovely architecture and indulge in some shopping. Following that, head north to discover remarkable natural pools and parks within Hill Country.
Take a restorative swim at Hamilton Pool and explore Reimers Ranch Park.
After immersing in nature’s offerings, consider a visit to Texas Hill Country Olive Company for a culinary experience or sample the many local breweries.
6. McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls, situated at the junction of Onion and Williamson Creeks, offers a serene setting for a day’s excursion.
Spanning over 700 acres, the park features numerous hiking trails and swimming areas alongside abundant local flora and fauna to discover.
Established in 1976, this park forms part of the El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail.
Its proximity to Austin makes it an excellent choice for a convenient day trip.
7. Canyon Lake
Both the lake and the town that shares its name are worthy of a day trip from Austin.
Dubbed the ‘water recreation capital of Texas,’ Canyon Lake and the adjacent Guadalupe River provide a multitude of aquatic activities.
Established in 1964, the reservoir boasts approximately 80 miles of shoreline, offering ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Popular activities include swimming, boating, and fishing.
8. Fredericksburg
Although Fredericksburg is a small town situated in the heart of Hill Country, it offers significant attractions featuring shopping, fine dining, and the chance to unwind in a picturesque setting.
Fredericksburg is also known for hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year, creating a vibrant atmosphere that may be surprising for a small town.
Whatever the season, visitors will find enjoyment in Fredericksburg, especially with its impressive selection of wineries—over two dozen establishments, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
9. Lake Travis
As one of Texas’ most frequented lakes, Lake Travis provides ample opportunities for water-based recreation.
Spanning over sixty miles, the lake features a scenic shoreline characterized by hills and grasslands.
Available activities include boating, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, and water-skiing, offering a diverse range of options for enjoyment.
The lake’s deep, clear waters are exceptionally inviting for swimming.
10. Luckenbach
Luckenbach embodies the essence of Texan culture.
Nestled within the tranquil Hill Country, it offers a genuine opportunity to experience the heart of Texas.
The small town gained fame through a Willie Nelson song, highlighting its unique history, where “everybody’s somebody.”
Having experienced a drastic population decline since the 1960s, it was purchased by a rancher in 1970 for $30,000. Visiting on weekends provides a chance to enjoy live local country music.
11. New Braunfels
Frequent recognition in Texas’ best-of lists is both deserved and unsurprising for New Braunfels.
The city’s main draw, Schlitterbahn, is a massive water park featuring exhilarating rides, pools of various shapes, and diverse slides.
Utilizing natural water from the Comal River, much of the park showcases a unique experience.
Beyond the water park, visitors can also explore the retro Railroad Museum, engage in mini golf at Landa Park, visit the McKenna Children’s Museum, or experience Animal World and Snake Farm.
12. Enchanted Rock State Park
Enchanted Rock ranks among the largest natural rock formations in the United States, making it a noteworthy destination.
Designated a Natural Landmark since 1970, it rises 425 feet above its surroundings.
The site also possesses a rich history related to the area’s indigenous populations.
In addition to the prominent rock, the region offers abundant hiking trails, and it is an excellent spot for avid birdwatchers.
13. Houston
Houston serves as an excellent alternative for those seeking a change from Austin.
This bustling city offers a diverse atmosphere and, notably, is home to one of the most renowned Space Centers in the United States.
While visiting, be sure to recall the iconic phrase: “Houston, we have a problem,” associated with Apollo 13. The city also provides a wealth of dining options, vibrant bars, and an impressive selection of museums for exploration.
14. Dallas
As the third most populous city in Texas, Dallas is an often-overlooked yet exceptional day trip choice from Austin.
The city’s culinary and beverage scene is continuously evolving, and attending a Dallas Cowboys game is a thrilling experience.
Dallas also holds historical significance; notably, it is the city where JFK was tragically assassinated in 1963. A visit to the Sixth Floor Museum offers valuable insights into this impactful event.
15. Marble Falls
With a plethora of outdoor activities, Marble Falls is a delightful destination for day trip visitors.
Engage in wholesome experiences such as seasonal berry picking at Sweet Berry Farm and exploring the Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, making Marble Falls a family-friendly hotspot.
Birdwatching enthusiasts can seek out various species, including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler, or simply unwind at several nearby natural water features perfect for a refreshing getaway.
