Stuck in a rut and need to shake up your weekend routine? Maybe you’re looking for an affordable getaway with your partner or the whole family. If you’re a San Antonio local, the proximity of the Hill Country and other unique destinations makes it easy to do just that! Here are some of the best day trips from San Antonio TX that will have you back home in four hours or less!
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Best Day Trips from San Antonio TX < 1 Hour
New Braunfels
Located just a short drive north of San Antonio, New Braunfels offers multiple attractions for daytrippers. Take a leisurely float down the Comal River or challenge yourself on the whitewater rapids of the Guadalupe River.
Go on a guided tour 200 feet underground at Natural Bridge Caverns or an African safari at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. Enjoy incredible shopping downtown and sample some of the town’s favorite local food, including German cuisine!
Don’t miss out on a visit to Schlitterbahn Waterpark, one of the largest waterparks in Texas, or their 10-day festival, Wurstfest, that takes place at the beginning of November.
Gruene
Head over to Gruene, an idyllic little town in New Braunfels County. Visit the area’s unique shops, galleries, and restaurants, like Gristmill Restaurant & Bar, a multi-story restaurant with seating overlooking the treetops.
Be sure to stop by Gruene Hall, the longest continuously operating dance hall in the country!
Not much for dancing? Grapevine is a local tasting room that serves German and New Age wines with patio seating and live music.
San Marcos
If you are looking for day trips from San Antonio TX full of outdoor fun, then San Marcos is the perfect place! With its free swimming spots along the San Marcos River, it’s a great place for swimming in the summertime!
When the temperatures cool down, explore the Upper Purgatory Trail, play disc golf at Flying Armadillo, and visit Wonder World Park. Or, visit San Marcos during their Mermaid Festival in September!
Castroville
Castroville is home to dozens of historic buildings, charming shops, art galleries, and antique stores. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of Castroville’s iconic restaurants or sample local delights like handmade kolaches at Haby’s Alsatian Bakery.
Don’t skip out on snapping a photo in front of the iconic Steinbach House or attending their notorious Alsatian Festival in April!
Boerne
Head to Boerne for a day of simultaneous exploration and relaxation. Wander through the quaint downtown area and shop along the Hill Country Mile. Explore the nearby Cibolo Nature Center or take a leisurely boat ride on Lake Boerne with Trisum Sailing.
Don’t miss out on opportunities to experience the concerts at Cave Without a Name or eat delicious food like giant cinnamon rolls from Richter Bakhaus.
Bandera
Bandera is nicknamed “the Cowboy Capital of the World.” You can go horseback riding through the Hill Country, stay at a dude ranch, swim in the Medina River, learn where Bandera gets its nickname at the Frontier Times Museum, and more!
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Blanco
Experience the beauty of Blanco, a quaint Hill Country town surrounded by stunning scenery and rich history. Spend some time wandering its cobblestone streets, visiting the local shops, restaurants, bars, and distilleries, or spending the day at Blanco State Park.
Blanco is most well-known for its June Lavender Festival, so if you can make it into town, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience!
Seguin
In Seguin, you can visit Pape’s Pecan House, home to over 8,000 nutcrackers and what’s thought to be the largest pecan in the world.
Have exhilarating fun with the family at ZDT Amusement Park, shop at the local boutiques and antique shops, or eat wings and tasty Southern food while enjoying live music.
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Best Day Trips from San Antonio TX < 2 Hours
Austin
Take a day trip to the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin! Enjoy some of the city’s iconic sites, including Congress Avenue Bridge, Barton Springs Pool, and Zilker Park. Kayak on Lady Bird Lake and catch Austin’s population of Mexican free-tailed bats taking flight at dusk from March through October.
Explore downtown Austin with its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, murals, and shops. Listen to live music at venues like the Mohawk and end the night with delicious tacos from the local food trucks.
Fredericksburg
Visit this charming Hill Country town, famous for its wineries and German heritage. Spend the day exploring historic sites like the National Museum of the Pacific War or visit some of Fredericksburg’s many wineries, including Texas Wine Collective, Grape Creek Vineyards, and Becker Vineyards.
Take a stroll down Main Street, browse boutique shops like the Magnolia Pearl, and sample German cuisine at local restaurants like Otto’s!
Kerrville
Embark on a day trip to the picturesque city of Kerrville, nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Delight in its natural beauty by visiting local parks like Kerrville-Schreiner Park along the Guadalupe River, with activities like hiking, kayaking, or picnicking.
Roam downtown Kerrville’s many local shops and admire the castle-like Schreiner Mansion. Enjoy a high tea service, share a giant pizza, or eat on a boat!
For art enthusiasts, the Museum of Western Art houses works by world-famous Western artists. Don’t forget to stop by Stonehenge II, a replica of one of the most magical structures in the world!
Junction
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, venture to Junction, a tranquil city located at the convergence of the North and South Llano Rivers, and one of the best day trips from San Antonio TX. It’s known for its prime fishing, tubing, and kayaking spots.
Explore scenic South Llano River State Park or immerse yourself in local history at the Kimble County Museum. After a day of adventure, satisfy your appetite with local burgers, barbecue, or Mexican food.
Belton
Escape the hustle and bustle with a day trip to Belton. It’s home to Mother Neff State Park, Texas’ first state park, and beautiful “beaches” at Temples Lake Park.
Visit the Bell County Museum, shop downtown, and cap off your day with dinner and a movie at the Beltonian Theatre.
Bertram
Uncover the quiet charisma of Bertram, a hidden gem in the Texas Hill Country. Discover the town’s locomotive history with a ride on the Hill Country Flyer. It runs out of Cedar Park and is operated by the Austin Steam Train Association. The train transforms during the holidays into the North Pole Flyer, which rides directly out of Bertram.
Experience local spirits and wine at Flanigan’s Texas Distillery & Winery. Then, end your visit with authentic Texas barbecue at Hill Country Smokehouse.
Burnet
Experience the unique culture and stunning landscape of Burnet, a city at the edge of the Texas Hill Country. Stop by its local wineries and shops, or try to plan your trip so you can be there for Utopiafest in October!
As for outdoor activities, go swimming, fishing, kayaking, or camping at Inks Lake State Park, or explore the underground caves at Longhorn Caverns State Park.
Concan
Find a slice of paradise with a trip to Concan, an unspoiled escape in the Texas Hill Country you have to add to your list of the best day trips from San Antonio TX. Take a dip in all of the unique swimming spots along the Frio River and explore Garner State Park for some quality time outdoors.
End your visit with ice cream from the Frio Float and a delicious meal at Neal’s Lodges, one of the area’s oldest restaurants. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to go on a Frio Bat Flight tour, where you’ll get to see the second-largest bat population in the world take flight at sunset!
Driftwood
Find yourself in an oasis of small-town charm with a trip to Driftwood, located just outside of Austin. Go for a walk through Charro Ranch Park, which is speckled with wildflowers in the spring, and take in the sights and sounds of the Texas Hill Country.
Visit the area’s several, well-known distilleries and wineries for some of the best sips in the state. Then, grab a nice Italian dinner at Trattoria Lisina.
Dripping Springs
Experience the historic allure of Dripping Springs on a full-day excursion. Unwind in the pastoral beauty of Hamilton Pool Preserve, with its limestone cliffs and lush greenery, or swim, mountain bike, and hike at Reimers Ranch Park.
Visit Dripping Springs’ several wineries and distilleries, or sample some unique brews and eat pizza at Suds Monkey Brewing. End your visit with some dancing at Mercer Dancehall!
Georgetown
Discover the beauty of Central Texas on a day trip to Georgetown. Go swimming in Blue Hole, tour Inner Space Caverns, and wander through San Gabriel Park.
Enjoy a stroll along Main Street for boutique shopping, antiquing, and winery hopping. Before hitting the road, stay for the sunset over Lake Georgetown.
Hye
Explore the heart of Texas Hill Country on a day trip to Hye. Spend the morning hiking and exploring the trails at Pedernales Falls State Park for breathtaking views of the park’s canyons, bluffs, and riverbanks.
As a stop along the 290 Wine Trail, it only makes sense to add some wine tastings to your list! If you aren’t a wine drinker, there are also distilleries and breweries! Then do some dancing at Hye Dance Hall before heading home.
Johnson City
Head to Johnson City for an exciting day trip. Visit some of the city’s historic sites, like the Lyndon B. Johnson Boyhood Home and Pedernales Electric Coop Museum, for a glimpse into its past. Enjoy a stroll along Main Street for boutique shopping, tasty eateries, and unique art galleries.
Take in the Hill Country’s most beautiful scenery, on the shores of the Pedernales River, at Blanco State Park. Enjoy a relaxing evening with an outdoor concert at Johnson City Music Hall, featuring some of the best local musicians in Texas.
Kingsland
Start your day soaking along the banks of the Llano River, have fun with watersport rentals from Splash Boat Rentals, and eat at Hooper’s, the former set of a 1970s American slasher film. Finally, wind down at one of Burnet’s nearby wineries.
Manchaca
For a laid-back day trip, head to Manchaca and go fishing off of Keeper Cider before grabbing a refreshing drink at Manchaca Springs Saloon. Or, book a guided safari tour or the coolest photo session at Indian Springs Ranch.
No visit to Manchaca would be complete without sampling the famous Texas barbecue at Valentina’s!
Marble Falls
Learn about early life in Marble Falls and more at the Falls on the Colorado Museum. Test your hiking skills at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, a free park that is home to bird species like the endangered Golden-Cheeked Warbler.
Round off your day with some local cuisine at a local favorite, the Blue Bonnet Cafe. They serve everything from all-day breakfast to Southern comfort food and pies with real whipped cream.
Round Rock
Experience vibrant city life in Round Rock. Roam the historic downtown area, filled with local shops, eateries, and bars. Make sure to visit the town’s namesake, Round Rock, and the waterfall at Chisholm Trail Crossing Part across the road.
For sports enthusiasts, a minor league baseball game at the Dell Diamond is a must, with several unique food stands, on-site bars, and even a kid’s area! You could easily spend the entire day at Kalahari Resorts, the largest indoor waterpark in the country!
Spicewood
Escape to the countryside with a day trip to Spicewood. Begin your visit with tours and tastings at some of Spicewood’s many wineries.
If you’re adventure-inclined, go swimming at Krause Springs, explore Westcave Preserve, or book a tour of the treetops with Cypress Valley Canopy Tours.
Stonewall
Step into the past with a visit to Stonewall, a town steeped in history and famed for its peaches. Start your day at the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Site to learn about our nation’s 36th president’s legacy.
Then, stop by the local shops for goodies made from their all too-famous peaches, or plan your trip for June during their Peach JAMboree & Rodeo!
Stonewall is another stop along the 290 Wine Trail, where there are several wineries to choose from. Or close out your day trip with a drink and two-stepping to live music at Albert’s Ice House & Dancehall.
Wimberley
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and artistic spirit of Wimberley. Browse local crafts at the monthly Wimberley Market Days, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Blue Hole Regional Park. Be sure to visit the EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens, home to annual Shakespeare performances and a stunning holiday Trail of Lights, as well as the Wild West replica, Pioneer Town.
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Best Day Trips from San Antonio TX < 3 Hours
Houston
Houston, the largest city in Texas, invites you to visit its abundance of attractions. Visit the Houston Museum District, which consists of a whopping 19 museums! Or, explore the NASA Space Center, stop by a winery, spend time near the water in the Bay Area, and more!
Don’t miss out on the bustling culinary scene – from food trucks to five-star dining. Houston has it all if you’re looking for another place to add to your list of day trips from San Antonio, TX!
Calvert
Calvert, Texas is a charming day trip destination that shouldn’t be missed for San Antonio explorers. Steeped in history, this quaint town boasts a delightful downtown adorned with historic buildings, antique treasures, and inviting cafes perfect for a leisurely stop.
And of course, no trip to Calvert would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. The town has a number of restaurants serving up delicious comfort food. Be sure to try the pecan pie at Royalty Pecan Farms!
Corpus Christi
Delight in a beach getaway to Corpus Christi! Start your day with a cup of coffee at the Coffee Mugg, a Harry Potter-themed coffee shop. Tour the USS Lexington and visit the Texas State Aquarium, the South Texas Botanical Gardens, or the iconic Selena Museum.
Enjoy pristine sandy beaches and a walk along the seafront promenade. As the sun sets, dine on fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants while enjoying the breathtaking view.
Waco
Set off for a day of fun and discovery in Waco. Drop by the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos for a shopping spree, or cool off in the longest lazy river in the world at the Waco Surf Park. Explore the Mayborn Museum Complex for a mix of history and natural science. Wrap up your day with a refreshing soda or an ice cream float at the iconic Dr. Pepper Museum.
Laredo
Embark on an enriching cultural journey in Laredo. Dive into the city’s rich history at its many museums, like the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum. Sample its multitude of coffee shops and tasty restaurants. Then, explore the many activities at the Laredo Safari and Adventure Park.
If you can, plan your trip during Laredo’s Washington Birthday Celebration, a month-long festivity in February filled with vibrant parades, traditional food, and music.
Victoria
Victoria, known as “The Crossroads,” is one of the best day trips from San Antonio TX for history buffs. Explore the Museum of the Coastal Bend and immerse yourself in over 10,000 years of Texas history. Kayak the Guadalupe River, or go bird watching at the Texas Zoo, where you can also meet more than 200 species of Texas native animals.
Then, choose from a selection of yummy BBQ joints along the Great Coastal Texas Barbecue Trail so you don’t have to drive home on an empty stomach.
Bellville
Discover the quaint charm of Bellville, fit for royalty. Meander through the downtown square and browse the unique shops. Tour Newman Castle and pay a visit to the Austin County Jail Museum to learn about the area’s historic past. It’s one of the most magical places you could add to your list of day trips from San Antonio TX!
Brownwood
Experience the allure of small-town Texas in Brownwood. Take a refreshing dip in Lake Brownwood or explore the surrounding state park. Learn about trains at the Frances Lehnis Railroad Museum, eat inside one at the Runaway Train Café, and do some shopping downtown.
Finish your day trip by sampling local wines at the Skies Over Texas Winery, or visit the Wild West Town of Los Trece for live music and more!
Bryan
Often referred to as “Aggie Land,” Bryan is filled with local boutiques and eateries. Stop by the Messina Hof Winery for a wine tasting or visit during a full moon for a chance to attend a moonlit dinner at the Ronin Farm.
Learn about the Bush family at the George H. W. Bush Museum and stroll through the adjoining Barbara Bush Rose Garden.
Lampasas
Revel in the rustic Texas charm of Lampasas. Visit the beautiful Hanna Springs Sculpture Garden, adorned with unique artwork by local artists. Head to the scenic Hancock Springs Free Flow Swim Area or go on a drive-thru safari at Topsey Exotic Ranch.
Take this day trip as a chance to eat at Elvis’ favorite burger spot and to pose for a photo with the World’s Largest Spur!
Leander
Leander offers a delightful mix of outdoor pursuits and culinary delights. Grab Portuguese and Brazilian pastries at Casa Costa Bake Shop. Ride the state’s longest zipline at Lake Travis Zipline Adventures, explore Sandy Creek Park, and visit the Leander Dinosaur Tracks.
Finish your trip with Indian-Nepalese fusion at Lali Son or one of Leander’s other options for international cuisine.
Liberty Hill
Liberty Hill is a lovely small town where you can visit a multitude of distilleries, breweries, downtown shops, and parks.
Join the locals at the annual Liberty Hill Fair and Rodeo in May with live music, food, and more!
San Saba
San Saba, the “Pecan Capital of the World,” promises an array of unique experiences. Visit the Wedding Oak Winery for a wine tasting, or explore the local pecan shops scattered around town. The beautiful Mill Pond Park offers a tranquil setting for picnics by its waterfall or go hiking at Colorado Bend State Park.
You can even go pecan-picking in the fall at the Great San Saba River Company, the only pecan tree open to the public!
Sonora
Just a short drive from San Antonio, the charming town of Sonora is a must-visit for anyone looking for a quaint day trip!
The Caverns of Sonora are one of the most beautiful show caves in the world, with stunning formations that have developed over millions of years. Visitors can take a leisurely guided tour of the caves or do something a little more daring like rappelling!
In addition to the caves, Sonora also has a historic downtown and a local museum that tells of Sonora’s roots in ranching. It’s a great place to spend a day exploring the natural beauty of Texas!
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Best Day Trips from San Antonio TX < 4 Hours
Fort Worth
Experience the vibrant culture of Fort Worth, a city steeped in cowboy heritage. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Fort Worth Stockyards, where you’ll have the chance to see a longhorn cattle drive. Then, visit the Japanese Tea Gardens or the Fort Worth Zoo!
In between adventures, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local barbecue joints or international restaurants before finishing with some dancing and live music at Billy Bob’s.
Galveston
Galveston, a coastal city, offers an endless array of seaside adventures. Enjoy a thrilling ride at Pleasure Pier or bask in the beauty of Galveston Island State Park. Explore the grand Moody Mansion Museum or take a leisurely walk through the Strand Historic District, brimming with unique shops and eateries.
Alvin
Alvin is a hidden gem in Texas with a mix of outdoor fun and historical landmarks. Visit the Bayou Wildlife Zoo, an open-range zoo full of exotic animals, or Froberg’s Farm during its seasonal festivals. See the town’s historic train depot, eat at the Red Oak Cafe, and play disc golf at the local course.
Cleburne
Cleburne offers a delightful blend of history, nature, and culture. Discover the town’s past at the Chisholm Trail Museum or enjoy a scenic hike at Cleburne State Park. Don’t skip out on the internationally recognized burgers at the Burger Barn!
For theater lovers, catch a show at the Plaza Theatre Company, known for its theater-in-the-round style performances. Be sure to explore historic downtown Cleburne, with its antique shops and murals.
Clifton
Clifton, often referred to as the “Norwegian Capital of Texas,” is a charming city that promises unforgettable experiences. Here, you can visit the Bosque Memorial Museum for a dive into the region’s history and local art. Then do some antiquing and enjoy a wine or spirit tasting.
Conroe
Conroe is a city brimming with natural beauty and culture. It will prove to be another one of the best day trips from San Antonio TX! Go boating, fishing, and picnicking on Lake Conroe, walk through W.G. Jones Forest; or visit the Crighton Theatre!
Sample the city’s variety of spirits, wine, and even mead. Or pay a visit to P6 Farms during one of its seasonal events.
Dublin
Dublin, the “Irish Capital of Texas,” is full of charm and heritage, with more museums per capita than any other city in Texas. Visit the W.P. Kloster Museum Annex to explore its unique Dr. Pepper memorabilia or Dublin Bottling Works for its rich array of craft sodas.
Stop by Lucky Vines Vineyard for a wine tasting and the Veldhuizen Cheese Shop for some treats to take home with you!
Hico
Hico is a small city with a big heart and a rich history. Spend a day at the Billy the Kid Museum or visit the Koffee Kup Family Restaurant, famous for its delicious homemade pies. The Blue Star Trading Company, one of the largest Native American jewelry stores, is also worth a visit!
Huntsville
Experience the unique blend of history and nature in Huntsville. Explore the Sam Houston National Forest, Huntsville State Park, or go swimming in the picturesque Blue Lagoon. Visit the Texas Prison Museum for a glimpse into the region’s past and go antiquing downtown.
Livingston
Livingston offers a plethora of outdoor activities! Choose from fishing, boating, and camping at Lake Livingston State Park. The Polk County Historical Museum and the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas’ Culture Center offer insight into the region’s history and heritage. Make a stop in downtown Livingston to explore the quirky antique shops while you’re at it!
Pearland
Pearland, known for its vibrant food scene and shopping venues, is another one of the best day trips from San Antonio, TX. Visit the Sri Meenakshi Temple for its stunning architecture and unique collection of Hindu objects. Do some shopping at the BLK Market, a huge collection of Black-owned businesses, visit a local watering hole, or visit the free Delores Fenwick Nature Center.
Sugar Land
Sugar Land is a city rich in culture and entertainment that offers an array of experiences. Visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science in Sugar Land for an educational adventure or enjoy a concert at the Smart Financial Center. Explore downtown Sugar Land, visit the Sugar Land Heritage Museum to learn about the town’s roots, and, as the name implies, try all the sweet treats!
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Best Day Trips from San Antonio: Final Thoughts
With all the charming small towns, breathtaking natural wonders, unique restaurants, and captivating historic landmarks, day trips from San Antonio TX have something to offer everyone!
From the rich cultural heritage of Laredo and the unique landmarks of Lampasas to the vibrant food scene of Pearland and the whimsy of Wimberley, there’s no shortage of adventure! So hop in your car and leave home in your rearview for the day!
Last Updated 8 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: August 23, 2023
