28 Epic Day Trips from Austin You Might Never Have Known Existed

So, you’ve got a free day and the itch to escape Austin, but you’re not sure where to go?

Want to find yourself floating in a Texas “cenote” or maybe twirling a glass of wine in Fredericksburg, feeling like a connoisseur? Well, you’re in luck because I’ve got a list of must-visit day trips from Austin close enough to fit into a single day.

I remember the days when my weekends and precious PTO were crammed with trying to max out on fun between those never-ending work deadlines. It’s tough choosing where to go when you’re pressed for time and want something different.

But, after spending a glorious month road-tripping through Texas and uncovering the coolest places around the state, I’ve compiled the ultimate list of day trips from Austin. These are the places that promise a good time without having to spend half your life on the road.

1. McKinney Falls State Park 

Distance: 10 miles/15 minutes
Type: Nature & Outdoors
Best Time to Go: Year-round

Located just 15 minutes from downtown Austin, McKinney Falls State Park boasts over nine miles of hiking trails, two waterfalls, and you can even take a dip in Onion Creek. Perfect for picnics and camping trips!

The park is home to several historic structures, including an old homestead and a reconstructed Smith Rock Shelter, where early Native Americans once camped. There are also some neat exhibits and guided tours that tell you all about the place’s history.

2. Round Rock

Distance: ~20 miles/25 mins
Type: Small Town & Sports
Best Time to Go: Spring for baseball season

Round Rock is a small town famous for its minor league baseball team, the Round Rock Express. Enjoy a game at Dell Diamond, with Friday night fireworks in the summer. 

If sports aren’t your thing, explore Round Rock’s lively historic downtown and savor a treat at Round Rock Donuts. Nature enthusiasts can stroll the Brushy Creek Regional Trail or kayak the San Gabriel River.

3. Lake Travis 

Distance: 35 miles/40 minutes
Type: Nature & Outdoors, Water Sports
Best Time to Go: Summer for water activities

Satisfy your need for vitamin “sea” with a day trip to Lake Travis. Known as the longest lake in Texas, grab a group of friends as it’s perfect for water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and boating. We managed to gather 8 of us to rent a speedboat for the afternoon, which was surprisingly affordable and included all the water toys you could imagine.

For those who prefer land-based activities, Lake Travis also offers hiking trails with beautiful foliage during the fall season. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try zip-lining over the lake for a unique experience!

4. Lockhart State Park 

Distance: ~35 miles/35 mins
Type: Nature & Outdoors
Best Time to Go: Spring to fall

Visit Lockhart State Park for a fun round of golf on their nine-hole course or cool off in the swimming pool. You can also explore hiking trails, enjoy picnic areas, and try your luck at the fishing pond.

Yet, what really makes this state park stand out is its close proximity to Lockhart, famously dubbed the “Barbecue Capital of Texas.” Don’t miss the chance to savor some mouthwatering brisket, ribs, or sausage at one (or more) of the renowned barbecue spots in town. I highly recommend the original Black’s Barbeque and the amazing Kreuz Market.

5. San Marcos

Distance: ~30 miles/35 mins
Type: Water Recreation & Outdoor Adventure
Best Time to Go to San Marcos: Spring to fall

Situated midway between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos has fantastic river tubing along the crystal-clear San Marcos River. Having gone myself, I can vouch for how much fun it was despite getting caught in a lightning storm on our visit.

Following a day lazing along in the outdoors, explore the many local breweries or wineries to enjoy some handcrafted beverages.

6. Hamilton Pool Preserve, Dripping Springs

Distance: ~30 miles/45 mins
Type: Outdoor Adventure & Scenic Views
Best Time to Go: Spring to fall

This natural pool is an absolute must-see destination during the hot summer months. It’s basically a Texas version of a Mexican cenote.

The Hamilton Pool Preserve features a stunning swimming spot with a 50-foot waterfall etched into the limestone bedrock and supplied by an underground river. The freshwater has transformed the entire area into a lush green oasis. There’s an impressive deep overhang above the pool, a relic of a natural dome that collapsed long ago, hiding the spring. 

Due to its popularity, reservations are now mandatory year-round. Also note that dogs are not allowed in the park, not even in vehicles.

7. New Braunfels 

Distance: ~45 miles/50 minutes
Type: Water Recreation
Best Time to Go: Summer for river tubing

New Braunfels is another place to beat the summer heat. Thanks to the Comal and Guadalupe rivers, it’s a go-to summer hangout. Imagine floating down these scenic waterways, river tubing, kayaking, or even rafting.

You’ll see folks linking their tubes together, drifting along with coolers packed with drinks and snacks, and making new friends. And for those looking for a bit more excitement, check out the city tube chute. It’s like a water slide, but cooler because you’re in the river.

Prefer the slides and waves of a water park? Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort is right there. And if you’re up for a bit more theme park action, Six Flags Fiesta Texas isn’t far either.

8. Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, Round Mountain

• Distance: ~30 miles/45 mins
• Type: Outdoor & Nature
• Best Time to Go: Spring and fall

Discover a hidden grotto through guided tours at the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center. Situated in the Texas Hill Country, this center offers a challenging hike to remarkable natural wonders, including a 40-foot waterfall and a breathtaking grotto.

9. Wimberley

Distance: ~40 miles/50 mins
Type: Small Town Charm & Outdoor Adventure
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall

For a relaxing day trip filled with small-town charm, visit Wimberley. This Hill Country treasure is famous for its cozy shops, quirky art installations, and galleries. 

Jump into the beautiful natural watering hole at Blue Hole Park or hike to Jacob’s Well, an artesian spring that hides a submerged cave system explored by divers to depths exceeding 100 feet! Check out glass blowing at Wimberley Glassworks and try some awesome local wines at the town’s many wineries.

10. Krause Springs, Spicewood

Distance: ~50 miles/40 minutes
Type: Nature & Outdoors, Water Recreation
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall

Krause Springs in Spicewood is this awesome hidden natural oasis where you can chill in cool spring-fed pools surrounded by lush trees and gorgeous waterfalls. It’s the perfect place for a picnic with loads of shade and tables ready for you. Nearby, there are plenty of trails to explore and you can even try fishing in the pond nearby. 

11. Gruene 

Distance: ~50 miles/45 minutes
Type: Historic Town
Best Time to Go: Year-round, but especially during the summer for live music events.

Known as the oldest continuously operating dance hall in Texas, Gruene is a cute historic town. Stroll through the shops and boutiques, grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants, and then head to Gruene Hall for some live music. 

You can also rent tubes and float down the Guadalupe River or take a guided fishing tour on Canyon Lake. And don’t forget to stop by the famous Gristmill restaurant for mouthwatering food and beautiful views of the river.

12. Palmetto State Park

Distance: ~55 miles/1 hour
Type: Outdoor & Nature
Best Time to Go: Year-round

Palmetto State Park in Gonzalez County is about an hour from Austin. It has a diverse ecosystem with unique dwarf palmetto plants and wetlands. The abundance of palmettos made these trails feel otherworldly, as if a dinosaur might pop out at any moment! 

The trails are easy and great for any age. Since the area was teeming with caterpillars, I’m sure there must be times when it’s bursting with butterflies.

13. Pedernales Falls State Park, Johnson City

Distance: ~40 miles/1 hour
Type: Small Town & Outdoor Adventure
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall for outdoor activities 

Situated just west of Austin, the Pedernales Falls State Park’sk’s main attraction is the picturesque Pedernales River, meandering over limestone ledges and large smooth rocks.

Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters at the limestone falls, a popular spot for swimming and tubing, or put on your hiking boots to follow trails leading to stunning sunset vistas from atop white cliffs.

14. Marble Falls

Distance: ~50 miles/1 Hour
Type: Outdoor Recreation & Scenic Views
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall for mild weather, summer for lake activities

Marble Falls is a town right in the middle of Texas Hill Country. It’s home to Lake Marble Falls where you can go boating, fishing, and lots of water activities. Plus, there are some pretty cool scenic places like Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

Just wander around the historic downtown, check out the shops, and grab a bite at one of the local spots.

15. Natural Bridge Caverns, San Antonio

Distance: ~50 miles/1 Hour
Type: Cave Exploration
Best Time to Go: Year-round

The Natural Bridge Caverns boasts one of Texas’ largest cave systems. Imagine descending 180 feet below the ground to massive chambers and cool rock formations.

You can pick from all kinds of tours, whether you’re in for a small walk or all-out caving expeditions. And if you’re more about sunshine, there’s an aerial ropes course, zip line, and even fossil digging to get into.

Come the holiday season, the caves turn into a Christmas wonderland, all lit up and festive. Right next door, there’s this Wildlife Ranch where you can go on a sort of safari from your car and hang out with animals up close.

16. Longhorn Cavern State Park

Distance: ~65 miles/1 hour and 15 minutes
Type: Cave Exploration & History
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall

Located in Burnet, Longhorn Cavern State Park is one of the Hill Country’s best-kept secrets. This living cave is home to some unique rock formations, including intricate calcite crystals and a large underground lake.

Take a guided tour of the caverns, go on a scenic hike around the park, or even try geocaching.

17. Inks Lake State Park

Distance: ~70 miles/1 hour and 15 minutes
Type: Outdoor Recreation & Camping
Best Time to Go: Spring to Fall

Austin might be hot, but it’s got loads of cool spots to chill out by the water. Inks Lake State Park has gorgeous clear water that’s just begging for a swim, a boat ride, or a fishing trip. Feel like a hike with awesome views, or maybe just lounging by the lake with a picnic? This is the spot. And if you’re up for an adventure, the Devil’s Waterhole is the go-to place for cliff jumping and taking a dip.

18. San Antonio, Texas

Distance: ~200 miles/3 hours 
Type: Historical & Family Fun
Best Time to Go to San Antonio: Fall and spring

Despite being a major city, San Antonio feels like a pretty small city, perfect to be explored in a day or weekend. The River Walk in the city is a hit for both tourists and locals, thanks to its awesome waterway surrounded by cool restaurants, shops, and places for entertainment. And if it’s your first time in San Antonio, you can’t not go to the Alamo or the historic Missions. 

If you’re looking for fun times with the family, SeaWorld San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas have thrilling roller coasters and water rides. Oh, and you’ve got to try the amazing Tex-Mex food while you’re here!

19. Fredericksburg, Texas

Distance: ~80 miles/1 hour and 30 mins
Type: Small Town & Wine Country
Best Time to Go to Fredericksburg: Spring and fall for Oktoberfest celebrations 

Referred to as the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a quaint town rooted in German heritage and famous for its wine. With all its wineries and tasting rooms, it’s like Texas’s version of California’s Napa Valley.

If you’re there in spring, the wildflower fields are a must-see. And if it’s fall, you definitely want to get drunk at their Oktoberfest. 

If you’re not wining and dining on German food, stroll down historic Main Street or take a scenic drive to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. 

20. Waco, Texas

Distance: ~100 miles/1 hour and 30 mins
Type: Eclectic Attractions & Heritage
Best Time to Go to Waco: Late spring or early fall

Before my trip, all I knew about Waco was from that miniseries, but it’s actually a nice spot for a real taste of Texas. Why should you hit up Waco next? First off, it’s got the Magnolia Market at the Silos, thanks to Chip and Joanna Gaines from “Fixer Upper.” 

It’s an awesome place to shop, eat, and chill in a super nice, rustic setting. And, the food trucks there? Top-notch. Otherwise, go to the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum and the Dr. Pepper Museum. If you’re into animals, Cameron Park Zoo and the Waco Mammoth National Monument are worth a visit!

21. Colorado Bend State Park 

Distance: ~95 miles/1 hour and 45 mins 
Type: Outdoor & Nature
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall

Colorado Bend State Park sprawls across more than 5,000 acres of awesome scenery, rivers, moss-draped rocks, and caves. It’s a favored spot for hiking, camping, and exploring the numerous caves it holds. Among its many natural wonders, Gorman Falls stands out as a magnificent 60-foot waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool surrounded by greenery. 

22. Glen Rose (Dinosaur Valley State Park)

Distance: ~165 miles/2 hours and 45 mins
Type: Historical & Family Fun
Best Time to Go: Spring and fall

Find genuine dinosaur footprints in the riverbed at Dinosaur Valley State Park! Take a dip in the Paluxy River and hunt for these prehistoric tracks, or go on the park’s hiking and biking trails.

Swing by Dinosaur World to see life-sized dino replicas and get hands-on with interactive displays. Don’t miss out on Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, where you can go for a scenic drive and spot over 1,000 animals like bison and giraffes roaming free.

Close by, another park has remarkably large rock formations, smartly named “Big Rocks Park”.

23. Lost Maples State Natural Area 

Distance: ~155 miles/2 hours and 50 mins
Type: Hiking and Nature
Best Time to Go: Fall for the colorful foliage

Lost Maples State Natural Area is 2,900 acres of hills, canyons, and streams with lots of opportunities for hiking, camping, bird watching, and stargazing. The park is particularly popular in the fall when the maple trees turn brilliant shades of red and orange.

24. Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas

Distance: ~195 miles/2 hours and 50 mins
Type: Urban
Best Time to Go to Dallas: Year-round

From the top of the Reunion Tower to finding street murals and the best coffee in Deep Ellum, Dallas is a great, albeit a bit far, place to explore with a single day. 

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza offers an in-depth look at JFK’s life and legacy, while the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the impressive art collections at the Dallas Museum of Art will impress you.  And make sure to eat some amazing Tex-Mex cuisine and barbecue – a must-try on a day in Dallas!

Drive to nearby Fort Worth for some more cowboy culture or just to snap a pic at the beautiful Water Gardens.

25. Garner State Park, Concan, Texas

Distance: ~170 miles/2 hours and 55 mins
Type: Outdoor & Nature
Best Time to Go: Summer for swimming; fall and spring for hiking

Garner State Park is an outdoor standout for its clear Frio River and hiking trails. In the summer, people love to swim, tube, and camp by the river to beat the Texas heat. When it’s cooler, it’s all about going on those scenic trails through the hills and valleys. Throughout the year, there are events like a Halloween dance and a birding fest.

26. Houston, Texas

Distance: ~165 miles/2.5 hours
Type: City & Culture
Best Time to Go to Houston: Year-round, but hot in the summer

As one of the largest cities in America and the birthplace of Texas independence, Houston is better saved as a weekend trip. Visit the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site and the Battleship TEXAS to learn more about this pivotal moment in Texas history. 

For art and culture, the Museum District has almost 20 museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. And if you have even a slight interest in space and science, Space Center Houston is hands down one of the coolest museums I’ve visited.

27. Corpus Christi

Distance: ~215 miles/3 hours and 15 mins
Type: Beach & Outdoor Recreation
Best Time to Go to Corpus Christi: Spring or Fall

Even my East Coast family once eyed Corpus Christi for a vacation spot. Sitting pretty on the Gulf of Mexico, it’s a go-to for anyone chasing some beach time. With over 100 miles of coastline, choices abound from North Beach to Padre Island National Seashore and Mustang Island State Park.

Beyond beach activities, you can also explore the city’s attractions, like the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay or the Texas State Aquarium. For outdoor lovers, check out places like Padre Island National Seashore for wildlife sightings or Corpus Christi Bay Trail for scenic bike rides.

28. Galveston Island, Texas

Distance: ~225 miles/3 hours and 40 mins
Type: Beach & Outdoor Recreation
Best Time to Go to Galveston Island: Spring and Fall

Head to Galveston Island State Park for a beach day escape from city life. Did you know it was the first Texas city with gas lights in 1856? With 32 miles of beaches, it’s perfect for a sandy day out. 

Rent kayaks or paddleboards for waterway adventures. Check out Moody Gardens, a botanical garden with giant glass pyramids filled with sharks and monkeys. Close to vibrant Galveston city, you can mix beach fun with shopping and dining.

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES

✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures.