Make the best out of your weekend when you visit one of these weekend getaway destinations from Austin, Texas. If you’re looking for a change of scenery, a weekend vacation to these Texas cities will give you the recharge you need. From coastal cities to urban hot spots to small Texas towns, there is a destination on this list that is sure to please your weekend travel bug. You’ll be counting down the days till Friday when you book a stay at one of these 10 weekend getaways from Austin, Texas.
Fredericksburg
Texans regularly flock to Fredericksburg for a weekend getaway because this central Texas town has a lot to offer. Outdoor enthusiasts should explore nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, while wine lovers shouldn’t miss out on a tour of the wineries in the area. With a number of great bed and breakfasts found here too, Fredericksburg is the perfect location for a charming weekend escape.
Corpus Christi
Hit the beach for the weekend by taking a drive out to Corpus Christi. Although the drive to Corpus Christi from Austin is a few hours, it is well worth the wait once you reach the sandy coast. Spend the weekend on the Padre Island National Seashore. If you’re too sunburnt for another day in the sun, spend Sunday browsing the Selena Museum or the Texas Surf Museum.
Johnson City
If you’re not interested in driving too far from Austin, then consider taking a trip to Johnson City, which is only an hour away. This central Texas town is home to Pedernales Falls State Park, where you can spend the weekend camping and hiking. If you’re not interested in outdoor recreation, consider visiting Johnson City’s historic sites.
New Braunfels
New Braunfels is a small German town found in the Texas Hill Country. Since it’s home to two spring-fed rivers, the Comal and the Guadalupe, it’s a popular weekend destination for tubing and swimming. Weekenders will also enjoy the craft beer scene here, along with Schlitterbahn water park, one of the biggest water parks in the state.
San Antonio
If you’ve grown tired of the restaurants in Austin, then head to San Antonio for the weekend to hit up some of San Antonio’s best eateries. Foodies will enjoy visiting restaurants along the Riverwalk, which is also home to a number of topnotch hotels. However San Antonio isn’t just home to some of the best tacos in the state, here you’ll also find historic sites like the iconic Alamo.
Georgetown
This small Texas town has a charming downtown area that will make you want to move away from the big city. If you’re interested in antique shopping, then Georgetown is a great place to visit. However, not just antique enthusiasts and Southwestern University alumni visit here. Georgetown attractions like Inner Space Cavern and Lake Georgetown are two big draws of this little Texas town.
Houston
Houston, Texas, one of the biggest cities in the nation, has a lot to offer weekend travelers coming from Austin. Choose to stay in downtown Houston where many luxury and boutique hotels are found. Sports fans should catch an Astros game at Minute Maid Park, or see the Houston Rockets play at the Toyota Center. Downtown Houston is also home to a number of great eateries, no matter if you’re craving great barbecue or a farm-to-table gourmet meal. Other notable Houston attractions to consider for your weekend are the Downtown Aquarium, Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Dallas
Dallas is another metropolitan area that is worth a weekend trip for those traveling from Austin. Make sure to bring an empty suitcase because this city has plenty to offer shopaholics from outlet malls to stylish boutiques in the Bishop Arts District. If shopping isn’t your thing, you can take a stroll in Klyde Warren Park or visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. If you’re wanting a taste of cowboy life, head to nearby Fort Worth to experience the Stockyards.
Galveston
If you’re up for the three-hour drive, your weekend will be unforgettable when you spend it in Galveston, Texas. With miles of beach, you may never want to leave the sandy shore. However, Galveston has a number of great attractions worth your visit too, like Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Pleasure Pier and Moody Gardens.
Waco
If you’re wanting to escape city life in Austin, then head to this small Texas town that is only an hour and a half away from Texas’ capital city. Waco has grown in popularity in recent years due to Magnolia Market, a store owned by Chip and Joanna Gaines from HGTV’s “Fixer Upper.” Although if you’re really wanting to escape the weekend crowds at Magnolia Market, consider visiting Waco’s other attractions like the Dr. Pepper Museum or the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame.