Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city packed with music, culture, and incredible food. But sometimes, even the most devoted Austinites need a break from city life. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, an adventure-filled weekend, or a historic escape, there are plenty of fantastic destinations just a short drive away.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best weekend trips from Austin, featuring charming small towns, scenic nature spots, and exciting attractions. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a group adventure, or a solo getaway, you’ll find the perfect destination within a few hours of the city.
1. San Antonio – History and Culture Combined
- Drive Time – Around 1.5 hours from Austin
- Best Time – Spring and winter for pleasant weather
- Expert Tip – Book River Walk hotels early in peak season
- Trip Type – Perfect for culture and history seekers
San Antonio blends rich Texas history with vibrant city energy, making it one of the best weekend trips from Austin. From the iconic Alamo to the lively River Walk, this city tells its story through every step. Whether you’re a history buff or a cultural explorer, San Antonio promises a weekend full of heritage and charm.
Things to Do:
- The Alamo: Visit the historic site that played a crucial role in Texas’ independence.
- San Antonio River Walk: Enjoy a boat cruise, shop, and dine at riverside restaurants.
- San Antonio Missions: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Mission San José & Mission Concepción.
- Pearl District: A trendy spot with local eateries, boutique shopping, and lively weekend markets.
- San Antonio Zoo: A great stop for families with kids who love wildlife.
2. Wimberley – A Hidden Gem in Texas Hill Country
- Drive Time – Just about 1 hour from Austin
- Best Time – Spring and early summer for swimming
- Expert Tip – Reserve Jacob’s Well swim slots in advance
- Trip Type – Ideal for nature lovers and quiet escapes
Wimberley is a serene Hill Country retreat, perfect for a nature-filled escape from Austin. Its crystal-clear springs, quiet hiking spots, and artistic soul make it a peaceful getaway. Ideal for those seeking calm, this hidden gem invites you to slow down and reconnect with the outdoors.
Things to Do:
- Jacob’s Well: Swim in this stunning natural spring with crystal-clear water.
- Blue Hole Regional Park: A scenic swimming hole surrounded by cypress trees.
- Wimberley Market Days: Explore Texas’ second-largest flea market with unique artisan goods.
- Old Baldy: Climb 218 steps to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Hill Country.
- EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens: A wonderful outdoor space featuring art installations and trails.
3. Houston – A Dynamic City Escape
- Drive Time – Around 2.5 hours from Austin
- Best Time – Fall and winter offer cooler sightseeing days
- Expert Tip – Weekdays are best for museum visits
- Trip Type – Great for urban explorers and art fans
Houston offers an exciting urban weekend getaway from Austin, packed with museums, shopping, and culinary gems. As one of Texas’ largest cities, it thrives with energy, diversity, and cultural attractions. If you crave a fast-paced, experience-rich escape, Houston is the place to be.
Things to Do:
- Space Center Houston: Explore NASA’s visitor center and learn about space exploration.
- Museum District: Visit top museums like the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts.
- The Galleria: Go on a shopping spree at Texas’ largest shopping mall.
- Buffalo Bayou Park: Rent a bike, kayak, or enjoy a relaxing walk with a view of Houston’s skyline.
- Hermann Park: A beautiful urban park with gardens, a golf course, and a pedal boat lake.
4. New Braunfels – River Fun and German Heritage
- Drive Time – Roughly 1 hour from Austin
- Best Time – Late spring to summer for water fun
- Expert Tip – Bring water shoes for river tubing
- Trip Type – Best for families and festival-goers
New Braunfels combines German heritage with water-filled adventure, making it a favorite weekend destination near Austin. With tubing on the Guadalupe River and lively local festivals, it’s made for fun. Great for families and thrill-seekers, this town balances tradition with Texas-sized recreation.
Things to Do:
- Schlitterbahn Waterpark: One of the best waterparks in the U.S.
- Tubing on the Guadalupe River: A classic Texas summer experience.
- Gruene Historic District: Visit the iconic Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall.
- Natural Bridge Caverns: Explore one of Texas’ largest and most impressive cave systems.
- Landa Park: A scenic park with paddle boating, miniature train rides, and picnic areas.
5. Marfa – A Quirky, Artistic Escape
- Drive Time – About 6 hours from Austin
- Best Time – Spring and fall for comfort in the desert
- Expert Tip – Stay overnight to catch Marfa Lights
- Trip Type – Suits art lovers and offbeat adventurers
Marfa is a remote and artistic escape from Austin, where desert skies meet minimalist art. Known for its mysterious Marfa Lights and creative spirit, it’s a place that inspires. For travelers seeking something offbeat, reflective, and visually stunning, Marfa is an unforgettable road trip destination.
Things to Do:
- Marfa Lights: Witness the famous unexplained glowing lights.
- Chinati Foundation: Explore minimalist art installations.
- Prada Marfa: Snap a photo at the iconic desert art installation.
- Big Bend National Park: If you have extra time, explore the stunning landscapes of Big Bend, just a couple of hours away.
- Marfa Burrito: Enjoy a simple yet legendary local breakfast spot.
6. Colorado Bend State Park – Outdoor Adventure at Its Best
- Drive Time – Close to 2 hours from Austin
- Best Time – Spring and fall for active hiking
- Expert Tip – Carry cash; no cell signal in park
- Trip Type – Great for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts
Colorado Bend State Park is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a wild weekend trip from Austin. From hiking to Gorman Falls to exploring hidden caves, every path here leads to adventure. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want to explore Texas at its most untouched and raw.
Things to Do:
- Gorman Falls: Hike to a stunning 70-foot waterfall nestled in lush greenery.
- Cave Exploration: Take a guided tour through hidden caves and underground wonders.
- Kayaking & Fishing: Paddle down the Colorado River or try your luck with fishing.
- Hiking & Camping: With over 35 miles of trails, it’s a paradise for hikers and campers.
- Wildlife Watching: Spot deer, armadillos, and a variety of bird species.
Events and Festivals Near Austin You Shouldn’t Miss
Every destination near Austin comes alive through its local events and festivals. Whether you’re a culture seeker, art lover, or seasonal traveler, these annual celebrations offer a deeper taste of Texas charm and give your weekend escape a memorable twist.
Fiesta San Antonio (San Antonio)
When: Every April
Vibe: Colorful, historic, and lively
Best For: Culture lovers & families
Fiesta San Antonio is a 10-day celebration of heritage and fun that transforms the city with parades, live music, and cultural events. It’s the perfect time to explore historic landmarks, indulge in authentic Tex-Mex, and experience the heart of San Antonio in full color.
Wimberley Arts Fest (Wimberley)
When: Mid to late April
Vibe: Artistic, scenic, relaxed
Best For: Creative souls & couples
Set along the Blanco River, Wimberley Arts Fest brings together painters, sculptors, and musicians in a peaceful outdoor setting. You’ll find hand-crafted treasures, live performances, and the kind of easygoing charm that makes for a truly refreshing weekend escape.
Space City Comic Con (Houston)
When: Summer (dates vary annually)
Vibe: Pop culture, energetic, family-friendly
Best For: Comic fans, kids & solo geeks
From cosplay to celebrity panels, Space City Comic Con is a celebration of everything geek and fun. It’s a vibrant choice for a summer trip to Houston, especially if you’re into gaming, sci-fi, and immersive pop experiences.
Wurstfest (New Braunfels)
When: Early November (10-day event)
Vibe: Festive, German-inspired, musical
Best For: Foodies & partygoers
Wurstfest serves up German traditions with Texas flair — think bratwurst, beer gardens, and non-stop polka. It’s a high-energy festival perfect for anyone who loves lively crowds, cultural vibes, and classic comfort food in a scenic riverside town
Marfa Lights Festival (Marfa)
When: Labor Day weekend (September)
Vibe: Quirky, mysterious, small-town
Best For: Offbeat travelers & road-trippers
Celebrate the mystery of the Marfa Lights with parades, food trucks, and laid-back entertainment. This small but iconic festival adds a unique twist to your desert getaway and offers a true taste of West Texas eccentricity.
Wildflower Hikes (Colorado Bend State Park)
When: Late March through April
Vibe: Natural, scenic, peaceful
Best For: Hikers, families & nature seekers
During spring, the trails at Colorado Bend explode with color. Join a guided wildflower hike to learn about Texas flora, breathe in fresh air, and experience the park at its most beautiful. It’s a gentle, rewarding adventure for all ages.
Planning Your Weekend Trip from Austin, Making it Easier for You
- Escape – Weekend trips within 1–3 hours of Austin
- Vibes – A mix of nature, art, history, and city life
- Timing – Ideal seasons for every destination
- Plan – Quick travel prep and budgeting insights
Choosing the Right Destination
Before you plan your getaway, decide what kind of experience you’re looking for. Nature lovers may prefer spots like Wimberley or Colorado Bend State Park, while culture seekers might enjoy the historical richness of San Antonio or the vibrant city life in Houston.
If you’re in the mood for something unique and offbeat, Marfa offers an artistic and remote escape worth the drive. Consider travel time, too—places like Marfa need a full weekend, while others like New Braunfels or Wimberley are perfect for a short, quick escape.
Timing Your Trip Wisely
The best time to travel depends on where you’re heading. Spring and fall are ideal for most locations, especially if you want to avoid the Texas heat. For water activities like tubing or swimming, summer works well, but it can be crowded.
City escapes like Houston or San Antonio are more pleasant during cooler months, especially in winter. Always check local events and weather before finalizing your plans to avoid surprises or packed weekends.
Packing Essentials
Pack based on your destination and planned activities. If you’re hiking or camping, bring comfortable shoes, breathable clothing, and plenty of water. For water-based destinations, add swimwear, towels, and quick-dry gear. City trips might call for casual wear and extra spending money for shopping or dining.
Always include sunscreen, bug spray, and a backup charger—they come in handy everywhere. For remote areas like Marfa, offline maps or printed directions are also smart to carry.
Fueling Up and Hitting the Road
Most destinations from Austin are within 1 to 3 hours, making them perfect for weekend travel. That said, fill up your tank beforehand, especially for rural or remote spots like Colorado Bend or Marfa where gas stations may be sparse.
Leaving early helps beat city traffic and gives you more time to explore. Consider planning a midway stop for coffee or a quick bite, especially if you’re traveling with kids or friends—it keeps the journey fun and relaxed.
Here is a summarized plan for you:
| Destination | Ideal Trip Duration | Accommodation Tips | Packing Essentials | Budget Range (Approx.) | Pro Planning Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Antonio | 2 days | Book a hotel near the River Walk or downtown | Comfortable shoes, sunhat, ID for museums | $150–$300 per person | Use city passes to save on museum and tour entries. |
| Wimberley | 1–2 days | Stay in a cozy cabin or riverside B&B | Swimwear, hiking sandals, reusable water bottle | $100–$250 per person | Reserve Jacob’s Well or Blue Hole ahead of time—slots fill quickly. |
| Houston | 2–3 days | Opt for a hotel in the Museum District or Galleria | Light clothing, daypack, charger | $200–$400 per person | Plan museum visits for weekdays if possible to avoid long lines. |
| New Braunfels | 2 days | Choose a riverside resort or Gruene area hotel | River shoes, dry bag, casual clothes | $150–$300 per person | Pack snacks and rent tubes early to avoid price surges. |
| Marfa | 2–3 days (at least) | Book early—limited hotels and Airbnbs | Layers (desert nights), camera, sunscreen | $250–$450 per person | Combine it with Big Bend if you have extra time for an extended trip. |
| Colorado Bend State Park | 1–2 days | Camp on-site or stay in nearby Bend or Lampasas | Hiking gear, flashlight, insect repellent | $80–$200 per person | Arrive early; parking and trails can get crowded on weekends. |
Conclusion: Mastery of the Whole
Whether you’re craving cultural depth in San Antonio, artistic serenity in Wimberley, big-city thrills in Houston, or natural adventures at Colorado Bend, Austin is surrounded by some of the best weekend getaway destinations in Texas, each offering a unique experience just a short drive away.
From relaxing river tubing in New Braunfels to chasing desert art and mystery in Marfa, these trips cater to every kind of traveler; families, solo explorers, couples, and nature lovers alike. With our guide covering the top attractions, expert travel insights, seasonal tips, and even local events and festivals, planning your next weekend trip is now easier than ever.
So next time you feel like escaping the routine, use this travel guide to pick your perfect destination, align it with the best time to visit, and enjoy an unforgettable short vacation, all without leaving the Lone Star State far behind.
FAQs (People also want to know)
1. What are the best weekend getaways from Austin?
Some of the best weekend getaways from Austin include San Antonio, Wimberley, New Braunfels, Houston, Marfa, and Colorado Bend State Park.
2. How far is Fredericksburg from Austin?
Fredericksburg is about a 1.5-hour drive from Austin, making it a perfect option for a quick weekend trip.
3. What can I do in Wimberley for a weekend?
You can swim at Blue Hole, visit Jacob’s Well, shop at Market Days, and enjoy peaceful Hill Country views in Wimberley.
4. When is the best time to visit San Antonio?
The best time to visit San Antonio is during spring and fall when the weather is cooler and the city hosts exciting events like Fiesta.
5. What is New Braunfels known for?
New Braunfels is famous for its German heritage, river tubing, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, and lively festivals like Wurstfest.
6. Is Marfa a good place for a weekend trip?
Yes, Marfa offers unique art, mysterious desert lights, and a quirky small-town vibe perfect for a creative and relaxing escape.
7. What can I do at Colorado Bend State Park?
You can hike to Gorman Falls, explore caves, go kayaking, and enjoy the natural beauty of Central Texas at Colorado Bend.
