Best Weekend Trips from Austin, Texas
One of the best parts about living in Austin is how easy it is to escape for the weekend. In just a few hours, you can trade city energy for Hill Country views, charming small towns, waterfront relaxation, or big-city culture. Whether you want outdoor adventure, great food, or a quiet reset, there’s a perfect getaway right outside the city.
Here are some of the best weekend trips from Austin that deliver big experiences without a long drive.
Fredericksburg
Right in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a favorite escape less than two hours from Austin. Known for its wineries, German heritage, and walkable Main Street, it blends culture with laid-back charm.
Wine lovers enjoy the dozens of nearby vineyards and tasting rooms, while shoppers browse antique stores, boutiques, and local cafés downtown. For outdoor enthusiasts, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers scenic hikes and sweeping views that make the trip even more memorable.
Fredericksburg is perfect for a romantic weekend, girls’ trip, or relaxed recharge.
San Antonio
Just about 80 miles south, San Antonio offers a mix of history, entertainment, and culture that makes for a well-rounded weekend.
The Alamo and the River Walk are must-sees, while families enjoy attractions like SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo. Art lovers can explore the McNay Art Museum or the San Antonio Museum of Art, and foodies will find everything from classic Tex-Mex to upscale dining.
San Antonio gives you that “big city” feel with a slower, more historic charm than Austin.
Wimberley
About 45 minutes from Austin, Wimberley is a peaceful Hill Country escape with a creative soul. This small town is known for its rivers, swimming holes, and artistic vibe.
Spend your days at Blue Hole Regional Park, exploring Jacob’s Well, or floating along Cypress Creek. In town, you’ll find local art galleries, boutiques, and weekend markets that make it feel personal and relaxed.
Wimberley is perfect when you want nature, quiet, and a slower pace.
New Braunfels
Located between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels combines outdoor fun with Texas tradition. It’s famous for tubing on the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, especially during the warmer months.
Families love Schlitterbahn Waterpark, while history lovers head to Gruene Historic District, home to Gruene Hall, the oldest continuously operating dance hall in Texas. Live music, local shops, and river activities make New Braunfels a fun, all-ages destination.
Lake Travis
If you’re craving water, sunshine, and easy fun, Lake Travis is hard to beat. Just outside Austin, it offers boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, and lakeside dining.
Pace Bend Park is great for camping and cliff-side views, while Volente Beach Resort adds family-friendly activities and water slides. And of course, catching a sunset at The Oasis is a local tradition for a reason.
Lake Travis is ideal for a quick, no-stress weekend reset.
Houston
About a two-and-a-half-hour drive, Houston offers a completely different energy with world-class dining, museums, and entertainment.
Explore the Museum District, visit NASA’s Johnson Space Center, or enjoy outdoor spaces like Hermann Park and Buffalo Bayou Park. From food to theater to professional sports, Houston delivers something for everyone.
It’s a great option when you want culture, nightlife, and a true city experience.
Big Bend National Park
For those who love wide-open spaces and dramatic scenery, Big Bend National Park is one of Texas’ most breathtaking destinations. It’s a longer drive, but the reward is unmatched.
Hike Santa Elena Canyon, take in the views from Lost Mine Trail, relax in hot springs, and experience some of the darkest night skies in the country. Whether you camp or stay nearby, Big Bend feels like a true escape from everyday life.
This one is perfect for adventurous weekends and nature lovers.
Start Your Next Adventure, and Find Your Next Home
One of the things I love most about Central Texas is how easily you can go from city life to Hill Country views, lakes, rivers, and historic towns in just a short drive. These weekend escapes are not just great places to visit, they’re also incredible communities that many people choose to call home.
If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I could really see myself living here,” that’s where I come in. Whether you’re dreaming about a home near the lake, in a charming Hill Country town, or right here in Austin, Cedar Park, or Round Rock, I’d love to help you explore what’s possible.
Let’s turn your favorite weekend destination into your next address.