Instagram-Worthy Day Trips from Austin, Texas
We know that Austin, TX is one of the greatest cities in the country. Even though there are many things to see and do in the city, isn’t it nice to get out of town every once-in-awhile for a spontaneous day trip? You’ll be amazed by all the sights and places to visit near Austin.
Best Day Trips from Austin, TX
Here’s a friendly reminder that there are some amazing places to see in Texas outside of the city limits. You may think you’ve seen all there is to see in the Texas Hill Country, but here are some other destinations for your next road trip – only a short distance from Austin – that we think you would enjoy.
Jacob’s Well
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We’ll start our trip about 50 minutes southwest of downtown Austin at Jacob’s Well Natural Area. Jacob’s Well is the perfect place to relax on a hot Texas day. This cool, crisp swimming hole leads to a complex network of underwater caves. You may want to dawdle the day away at Jacob’s Well or continue your day trip north to Dripping Springs.
Hamilton Pool
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You’ll quickly understand why Hamilton Pool near Dripping Springs is often named one of the most beautiful places in the USA. This tucked-away grotto features pristine water and a picturesque mossy limestone overhang. The only problem with this road trip destination is that you might not want to leave. Hamilton Pool is the perfect Austin day trip for a hot summer’s day!
There’s a lot to do in Dripping Springs! Visit Deep Eddy Vodka or other distilleries in the region.
Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center in Round Mountain
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Round Mountain is the next stop on our Instagram-worthy Texas day trip. There, you will enjoy a 76-acre wildlife conservation preserve in the Hill Country, which features a 40-foot waterfall. If your trunks haven’t dried out since your last stop, you might as well take a dip in the sapphire pool below the falls.
Round Mountain should not be overlooked! It’s one of the most beautiful regions of West Texas Hill Country.
Enchanted Rock State Park
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You may have already visited Fredericksburg on a day trip into the Texas Hill County, but this time consider bypassing the attractions of the historic downtown to enjoy Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. The park’s namesake is a giant granite monolith that extends over 400 feet into the sky. There you can enjoy 11 miles of trails, including one that takes you up to the rock’s summit. Plan on arriving at sunset – the views are breathtaking, making it one of the most popular trips from Austin.
Gorman Falls
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If you still have the energy on your day trip from Austin, visit Colorado Bend State Park in the Hill Country. Once there, listen for the sounds of Gorman Falls, an incredible 70-foot waterfall. This hike to the falls is three miles (round trip), but you’ll feel like you are a million miles away from civilization when you visit this Texas Hill Country site. Take time to see the Wind Cave tours at Colorado Bend State Park!
Lake Travis
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One of the top nature destinations in Central Texas is Lake Travis. This hot spot has something for everyone – whether you prefer to spend your day on a boat or at a water park. After a hot summer day on the water, you’ll be ready to enjoy live music at one of the area venues. Looking for a clothing-optional area near Lake Travis? Check out Hippie Hollow Park.
There’s so much to do in the area that this will be one of your favorite destinations to explore on a weekend trip from Austin, Texas.
San Antonio
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The Lone Star State has a lot to offer visitors. However, Texas residents should also spend their weekends exploring all the fun places our state has to offer. So take time to act like a tourist in San Antonio.
Take a guided tour of the Alamo. This national museum is worth a second or third visit as there is much to learn about Texas history. Of course, take time to visit Mission San Jose, too!
Of course, if you are acting like a tourist in your own state, you’ll want to spend time at the San Antonio River Walk. Spend a fun day taking a river cruise, enjoying a few margaritas, listening to live music, and looking at the works of local artists.
Of course, there are a lot of natural destinations between San Antonio and Austin. Consider taking a float trip down the San Marcos River – a must-do when visiting Central Texas. (Also, check out floating opportunities in the Comal River!) There are also state parks to explore, including Guadalupe River State Park and Blanco State Park.
Fredericksburg
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At the top of almost every “Best Austin Day Trips” list, you will find the charming city of Fredericksburg. This Texas Hill Country town, proud of its German heritage, has quaint shops, art galleries, and many wineries. Check out Fat Ass Ranch and Winery and Grape Creek Vineyards. Then, on your way back to Austin, swing through historic Luckenbach to see who is on stage that evening.
Blue Hole Regional Park
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Are you looking for a fun day trip to enjoy during the heat of the summer? Take a dip in one of our swimmin’ holes (or “natural pool” if you prefer). Blue Hole Park is one option. This natural, spring-fed swimming hole is lined with cypress trees and features crystal clear water and rope swings. Don’t forget to make reservations, as this is one of the popular Austin day trips!
Are you having a hard time getting reservations for your day trip? Check the availability at Hamilton Pool Preserve.
Waco
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Even before Chip and Joanna, Waco was one of the popular day trips from Austin. But when Fixer Upper became popular, tourists and Texas residents flocked to Waco. Besides visiting Magnolia Market at the Wilos, take time to go to the Waco Mammoth National Monument and the Dr. Pepper Museum.
More Day Trips From Austin
We’ve given you a lot to consider as you plan some day trips from Austin. However, we’ve only given you a small sampling of things to do in the Texas Hill Country. Why not go horseback riding at Pedernales Falls State Park? How about spending time on hiking trails around Marble Falls? Marble Falls is also known for fishing, golfing, hunting, camping, and bird-watching.
Just an hour from downtown Austin, you’ll find Johnson City, which features the Pedernales River Nature Preserve and the Johnson National Park. Johnson City is also home to the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs.
Also, escape from the big city to the small Texas town of Driftwood. Salt Lick BBQ is on many foodie’s bucket lists – plus, stop at Fall Creek Vineyards. It’s amazing what such a small town has to offer!
Ready for new day trips from Austin? It will take a lifetime to explore all that the Texas Hill Country and the surrounding region have to offer.
Why Not Escape to Nature Every Day?
Think about the times of your life when you have felt the most alive –or your most authentic self. If your mind immediately goes to the times you spent in nature, perhaps that says something about your personality.
If you dream of weekend getaways to the country during your workweek, perhaps you should consider moving to a more rural setting. If you currently live in Austin or San Antonio, you should also check out these thoughtfully planned community living options in the up-and-coming Round Mountain city area nearby. You’ll be close to all of the natural wonders we listed in this road trip guide, plus you’ll still have access to some of the greatest cities in the country.