Sometimes we just need to get away and hit the open road. When adventure calls, explore some of Austin’s surrounding areas with a quick day trip. From hill country vineyards to sparkling waterfalls, there’s plenty to discover in central Texas. Get off the beaten path! These are the 10 very best day trips in Austin and the surrounding area.

1. Waco
Waco, TX, USA
Magnolia Market/Facebook
The hour and half drive from Austin to Waco will breeze by. Get ready to gape at ancient Mammoth bones, stroll through the park, and explore Dr. Pepper soda's rich history. If it's shopping you're looking for, search no further than Magnolia Market. This stunning store is owned by HGTV's Chip and Joanna Gaines. There's plenty to see and do in Waco, Texas.
2. Lost Maples State Park
Lost Maples State Natural Area, 37221 RM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885, USA
Adam Baker/Flickr
Drive three hours west of Austin and you'll arrive in Vanderpool, Texas. This tiny town may not have a huge population, but it's home to one of the most gorgeous state parks around, Lost Maples State Park. The park is especially stunning in the fall so grab your camping gear and pitch a tent under the stars. This serene setting has a way of sticking with you.
3. Schulenburg's Painted Churches
Schulenburg, TX 78956, USA
Cynthia Azzam/Flickr
Schulenburg, Texas is home to some truly stunning architectural wonders. Scattered throughout the town sits several ornately decorated painted chapels. Collectively referred to as Schulenburg's Painted Churches, these buildings look like they've been plucked straight from a fairy tale.
4. Driftwood
Driftwood, TX 78619, USA
Driftwood Estate Winery/Facebook
Picturesque views, delicious barbecue, and down-home music are easy to come by in Driftwood. You'll love the city's attractions, but you'll swoon over the winding hillsides. The drive to Driftwood is easily one of the most beautiful in the country. If you haven't made it out to Driftwood yet, now is the time.
5. Lockhart
Lockhart, TX 78644, USA
bk1bennett/Flickr
Foodies from all over the region flock to Lockhart to taste some of the best barbecue in the world. This tiny town boasts several famous BBQ joints, and you'll want to come hungry. After you finish chowing down on brisket, take a stroll through the historic city. You'll love peeking in shop windows and exploring the gorgeous courthouse building.
6. Fulton
Fulton, TX, USA
Andy/Flickr
Not many know about the tiny fishing village in Fulton, but it's definitely worth the trip. Soak up the brilliant sunsets and taste the fresh food. You can even bring a fishing pole and see what you catch! A day trip to Fulton is the ultimate way to escape from it all, and one of the most unique things to do around Austin.
7. Round Top
Round Top, TX 78954, USA
Keith Ewing/Flickr
Round Top is only an hour an a half away from Austin, but it will make you feel like you've gone back in time. This charming city blossoms with Southern charm. Taste the desserts at Royers Cafe and watch a Shakespearian play at Winedale Farm. You definitely need to take a trip here when just you need to get away from it all.
8. The Hamilton Pool
Hamilton Pool, Texas 78620, USA
Marcus Calderon/Flickr
This majestic waterfall is other-worldly. The Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs will completely relax you, which, after all, is the whole point of going on a little getaway. You might want to plan a day trip here in advance, as this jaw-dropping oasis is very popular and can sometimes fill up quickly.
9. Gruene
Gruene Historic District, New Braunfels, TX 78130, USA
Gruene Historic District/Facebook
Gruene is so much more than a tiny town. This little getaway will take you away to paradise. Enjoy wine in the sunshine and window shopping at boutiques. No trip to Gruene is complete, however, without a night of dancing at the historic Gruene Hall.
10. Blanco
Blanco, TX 78606, USA
Blanco State Park/Facebook
The small town of Blanco is often over overlooked, but that would be a mistake because it's a true Texas gem. Stroll through the historic district, sip coffee at cute cafes, and soak up the slow-paced lifestyle. In the afternoon, take a visit to Blanco State Park. There, you can wade in the waterfalls and hike through clear, untouched nature.

What’s your favorite day trip destination in or around the Austin area? We’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences!

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More to Explore

Best day trips in Austin

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | June 30, 2022

I’m looking for unusual day trips near me. Can you suggest one?

How about the Dr. Pepper Museum? You might not consider it to be unusual, but it is certainly unique! Located in Waco, it is a true Texas gem. Here, you’ll learn all about this company started in a little Texas bottling facility in 1906 grew to become a world renown beverage institution. You’ll find oodles of memorabilia, classic bottles (not just of Dr. Pepper but other brands as well), interactive exhibits and much more.

Where is a good place to stay for a romantic weekend near Austin?

The Austin area is chock full of wonderful accommodation options. Among them are numerous romantic bed and breakfast inns. For example, the Park Lane Guest House is the place to go if you’re looking for romance and a place focusing on organic and eco-friendly practices. An upscale bed and breakfast option is the Blair House Inn in Wimberley, featuring eight charming guest rooms and five luxury cottages. These are just a few of the romantic bed and breakfast inns to suit any taste, desire, and budget.

Are there any boat tours in Texas?

Because of all the distinctive waterways peppered around The Lone Star State, boating and boat tours are among the most popular activities year-round. A real fun one is Tiki Tours in Port Aransas. One look at it and you’ll think its something right out of “Gilligan’s Island,” but boy is it fun! Grab your grass skirt, your sense of adventure, and come along for the ride. You might even catch a glimpse of the numerous dolphins and rays that live in the water here.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Texas?

That would definitely be the San Antonio River Walk. Located in San Antonio, it has been ranked among the 15 best river walks in the U.S. Extending an astounding 15-miles, it is chock full of restaurants and bars, live music venues, retail boutiques, and much more. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Texas.

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