Best Day Trips From Austin

Written By Habiba Abdou

If you're looking for an easy day trip from Austin, you're spoiled for choice. With so many incredible attractions and activities nearby, it's hard to pick just one place! We've rounded up some of the best day trips from Austin that are sure to be a hit with all types of travelers. Whether you want to explore nature, take in a show, shop 'til you drop, or just relax and enjoy the scenery, there's something for everyone.

19 Best Day Trips from Austin, Texas

If you're looking for a great day trip from Austin, Texas, then look no further! We've compiled the best day trips from Austin so that you can explore the city and its surroundings without having to travel too far. Best of all, these day trips provide something for everyone - from outdoor enthusiasts to culture aficionados. Here are some of our favorite day trips from Austin.

Lockhart State Park

If you're looking to get out of Austin and experience the beauty of nature, Lockhart State Park is the perfect day trip destination. Located just 44 miles from downtown Austin, this park is filled with plenty of outdoor activities.

Wildlife is abundant here, with deer, armadillos, and birds being spotted on a regular basis. Birdwatchers will find the park to be particularly enjoyable as it's home to many species of waterfowl, raptors, and shorebirds.

Lockhart State Park also offers educational programs for all ages. Guests can go on guided nature hikes or take part in workshops to learn about the history of the area. The park also has a playground, making it an ideal place for families to spend some quality time outdoors.

Finally, Lockhart State Park is just a short drive away from Austin and is relatively uncrowded compared to other parks in the region. This makes it a great option for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Krause Springs

Krause Springs is a great destination for anyone looking for an easy day trip from Austin. Located about 30 miles west of the city, it's an ideal spot to enjoy a peaceful day in nature and bask in its natural beauty.

At Krause Springs, you'll find 32 springs that are fed by underground water, as well as a number of creeks and pools. The springs range in temperature from 70 degrees to 85 degrees throughout the year, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing. There are also a variety of hiking trails available for exploring the park's natural wonders, including waterfalls and wildlife.

Krause Springs is also home to the famous Butterfly Garden, featuring more than 50 native butterfly species. You can get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures as you walk through the trails and gardens.

Falls Creek Vineyards

The wine-tasting experience at Falls Creek Vineyards is unlike any other. The knowledgeable staff is always willing to answer questions about their wines and provide you with a comprehensive education on the types of wines they offer. They even have a wine club program to join if you're interested!

At the end of your trip, you can purchase some of their delicious wines as souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. Don't forget to take a few pictures to commemorate your day at Falls Creek Vineyards!

San Antonio

From the bustling city of Austin, a day trip to San Antonio is just what you need for a perfect getaway. With its rich cultural heritage, an abundance of tourist attractions, and friendly locals, there are plenty of reasons why San Antonio should be your next destination for a day trip from Austin.

First and foremost, the Alamo is a must-see for anyone visiting San Antonio. Its history is deeply embedded in the culture of Texas and makes for an unforgettable experience. Not only that but there’s also plenty to do around the Alamo, from unique shopping experiences to delicious restaurants — it’s the perfect place to explore during your day trip.

San Antonio is also home to the iconic River Walk, an area filled with numerous restaurants and bars. It’s a great spot for people to watch and take in the vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful city. Speaking of food, San Antonio has some of the best Tex-Mex cuisines around! From tacos to burritos, you can find something to satisfy your taste buds.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

If you're looking for a great day trip from Austin, you should consider heading to Waco Mammoth National Monument! The monument is the perfect place to explore Texas' natural and cultural history. From its unique fossils to its preserved habitats, there's so much to discover at this amazing site.

The National Monument is home to the largest concentration of Columbian Mammoths ever found. Some of the mammoth fossils are over 60,000 years old and can be seen in the Fossil Area onsite. It's an incredible experience to see these ancient creatures up close! There are also many other mammal species such as bison, wolves, and even armadillos that were found in the nearby Waco Creek area.

Texas Hill Country

The region is renowned for its wineries and vineyards, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring and tasting different wines. In addition, there are plenty of charming towns and villages to explore along the way. From Fredericksburg to Bandera, each town has something unique to offer visitors.

The Texas Hill Country is also home to some of the best outdoor activities in the state. Whether you want to go hiking or biking, there’s something for everyone in this area. For those looking for an adventure, there are also campsites and RV parks nearby so you can stay the night and make a weekend out of it.

Lake Travis

If you’re a fan of the outdoors, Lake Travis is a great place to take in some fresh air and explore nature. There are plenty of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the lake, as well as numerous opportunities for fishing and boating. For those looking to make it more than just a day trip, there are also camping sites available in the area.

Lake Travis also offers a few different water sports, such as wakeboarding and stand-up paddle boarding. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you can even try parasailing to get an amazing view of the lake from above!

No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, a day trip to Lake Travis is sure to provide you with an unforgettable adventure. With its natural beauty and wide range of activities, this lake will be sure to be a memorable escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Hamilton Pool Preserve

Heading out of Austin for a day trip to the Hamilton Pool Preserve is worth it! Located about 25 miles away from Austin city center, the Hamilton Pool Preserve is a historic swimming hole and natural pool that was naturally formed by thousands of years of erosion.

The majestic Hamilton Pool Preserve boasts some stunningly beautiful scenery, featuring lush vegetation and a 50-foot waterfall that feeds into the natural pool. There are plenty of activities to choose from, such as swimming, hiking, and bird watching. The pool is open for visitors all year round, making it perfect for day trips regardless of whether you’re looking for an escape during summer or winter.

Johnson City

If you're looking for an easy and enjoyable day trip from Austin, Johnson City is the perfect destination. This charming town full of Texas history offers a range of attractions for all ages, from outdoor activities to shopping.

First off, the city has some great outdoor adventures waiting for you! Whether you’re hiking in Pedernales Falls State Park or taking a scenic drive through the hill country, there’s something for everyone. There are also plenty of guided horseback riding and kayaking tours available!

Finally, Johnson City has plenty of great restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. From classic barbecue joints to upscale dining, Johnson City has something for every taste and budget.

Texas White House

Originally built in 1854, the Texas White House has seen plenty of history, from being a private residence to becoming the headquarters of President Lyndon B. Johnson during his presidency in the 1960s. Today, it is open for visitors to come to explore its fascinating history and take a look at some of the artifacts that have been preserved there.Learn more about the Texas White House by clicking this link.

The Texas White House also offers plenty of things to do outside of its historical significance. With plenty of hiking trails, picnic spots, and wildlife to observe, a day trip here can be filled with exciting activities that are sure to make your visit worthwhile.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to try some Texas-style barbeque at the Texas White House's restaurant. This one-of-a-kind eatery features some of the finest barbeques in Texas, and can be enjoyed while taking in the views from the outdoor seating area.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

At Johnson National Historical Park, visitors can explore the preserved land that was once home to the Johnson family. This area served as the birthplace, home and resting place of former President Lyndon B. Johnson. The park is filled with history, cultural artifacts and natural beauty all set in the beautiful Texas Hill Country.

Planning a day trip to Johnson National Historical Park is an amazing way to get out of the city and learn more about history, nature and the area. It's a great spot for families looking for an educational experience, or those who just want to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Lake Marble Falls

Located in the heart of the beautiful Texas Hill Country, Lake Marble Falls is a perfect spot to get away from it all and enjoy some quality outdoor time.

The lake itself is an oasis of beauty and recreation; you can take your boat out for a leisurely cruise or try your hand at fishing. The surrounding area has plenty of trails and parks to explore, with lush forests and breathtaking views.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Located just 45 minutes west of Austin, Pedernales has something for everyone — from hiking trails to swimming areas, and even great bird watching spots!

The park features some of the most beautiful views in Central Texas. On your hike, you'll pass by the picturesque Pedernales River and take in views of rolling hills and limestone canyons. For a more leisurely experience, you can spend some time exploring the many swimming areas that dot the park. And if bird watching is your thing, Pedernales Falls State Park has plenty of species to observe!

Longhorn Caverns State Park

Located in Burnet County only about an hour away from Austin, this park is full of natural wonders and incredible geological formations. The cave itself has been open to visitors since 1932 and offers daily tours that provide insight into the history and culture of the area.

The park is known for its incredible underground features, like the famous 'Bacon' formations, which are crystallized columns that look like strips of bacon from a distance. The caverns also have unique rock formations and a variety of crystal deposits that make it a great place to explore and take photos.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Enchanted Rock is more than just a typical state park - it's a geological wonder with its huge dome-shaped granite rock formation and many stunning views. As you explore the area, it's easy to get lost in the breathtaking scenery and serene atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or just want to take in some of nature's beauty, Enchanted Rock is sure to impress.

Colorado Bend State Park

Located about two hours west of Austin by car, Colorado Bend State Park is full of breathtaking scenery and amazing opportunities for outdoor recreation.

The park features five miles of trails through beautiful terrain offering plenty of chances to explore and take in the natural beauty. The trail system includes a variety of terrain from gently rolling hills and scenic outcroppings to steep rocky canyons, offering something for everyone regardless of their outdoor skill level.

Blue Hole Regional Park

The Blue Hole Regional Park is a great spot to get away from it all and take in the beauty of nature. With picnic areas, swimming holes, and plenty of trails to explore, there's something here for everyone!

The highlight of Blue Hole Regional Park is the Blue Hole. This majestic blue spring-fed pool is a great place to take a dip and cool off after a hike. There's also plenty of space to relax and enjoy the peace surrounding you.

Colorado River

Day trips to the Colorado River from Austin are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people discover just how much beauty this river has to offer. The Colorado River is known for its stunning views, with massive limestone cliffs, lush foliage, and fast-moving rapids. You can take a boat trip on the river and explore its winding pathways, or if you prefer to stay on dry land there are plenty of hiking trails that offer views of the open sky.

McKinney Falls State Park

Located just 30 minutes away from downtown, McKinney Falls State Park offers a wealth of activities to enjoy. visitors can spend their time outdoors in nature by hiking through lush trails, swimming in the falls, and fishing in the river. In addition, there are picnic areas where you can enjoy a delicious lunch with your family or friends.

What makes McKinney Falls State Park so special is its diverse wildlife and plant life. From white-tailed deer to wild turkeys, there's plenty of native animals to observe and admire. The park is also home to numerous wildflowers, cacti, and other native plant life.

Conclusion

No matter your budget, time, or interests, Austin has plenty of great day trip ideas to explore. Whether it’s a nearby state park for a picnic and hike, a special museum for educational discovery, or an amusement park for some fun with the family - there’s something for everyone! Take advantage of the plethora of best day trips from Austin, and make sure to leave yourself some extra time to enjoy the journey.

 

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