Experience the vastness of Texas: The 9 ultimate road trips to embark on from Austin

We can all agree that this year is perfect for a classic road trip adventure.

Given the ongoing global COVID-19 concerns, along with the necessity of face masks and social distancing, traveling by private vehicle remains one of the safest and most comfortable ways to enjoy a vacation right now.

For those in major cities with reliable public transport, retrieving your driver's license might be the first step towards your road trip. However, for many Americans, driving is already a daily routine, making it easier to hit the road for a getaway.

If you're searching for weekend activities, here are some of my favorite road trips from Austin, Texas, categorized by distance, along with suggestions for things to do upon arrival.

In 2020, it's essential to verify websites and social media updates in advance to confirm that your destination is open and ready for visitors upon your arrival. Many state parks and public spaces require advance passes or enforce strict guest limits at any time, even under normal circumstances.

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There's a saying that "everything is bigger in Texas," and what might be a simple commute for a Texan could be considered a road trip in other states. From Conroe to Freeport, and Katy to Baytown, the greater Houston area stretches over 100 miles from north to south and more than 50 miles from east to west. The Dallas/Fort Worth area isn't much smaller, particularly as suburban expansion continues, and San Antonio has seen significant growth in recent years.

Explore our guide for additional road trip inspiration.

Large cities mean expansive highways and high-speed limits: Texas Highway 130, just east of Austin, features an 85-mile-per-hour speed limit — the highest legal limit in the nation.

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Austin, my hometown, still holds traces of its small-town charm, even as whispers grow among locals about a future where Austin and San Antonio could combine into one massive megacity. Austin is infamous for its traffic congestion, especially during peak hours: I've found that "rush hour" feels more like a three-hour marathon, occurring twice daily from 7:30 to 10 a.m. and again from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

However, there's a wealth of attractions in Texas that extends far beyond its major cities. If you're eager to escape the frenetic pace of urban life, consider any of these destinations for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

For barbecue, outdoor adventures, and a small-town atmosphere

Buda

For many, Buda, located 15 miles south of Austin, is merely a pit stop on the way to San Marcos and San Antonio — or perhaps even a super-south suburb of Austin, considering the steep cost of living in the city compared to the relatively affordable housing in Buda. However, this quaint town is more than just an extension of its northern neighbor. Its motto, "breathe easy here," perfectly encapsulates the atmosphere, and Buda, pronounced BYOO-dah, will indeed help you relax.

Antique enthusiasts will adore the downtown shops filled with unique, exciting, and vintage finds at delightful prices. Shoppers with different tastes will appreciate the expansive Cabela's along Highway I-35, so large it boasts an entire street named after it. Despite its small size, Buda's culture and vibrancy shouldn't be underestimated: within its 6 square miles, you can discover karaoke, retro arcade games, a soda fountain, delicious salsa, and much more.

Lockhart

Next time you find yourself stuck in traffic on Interstate 35, longing for a spontaneous getaway, resist the urge to stay put. Instead, take the nearest exit and head east to Lockhart. Just 25 minutes southeast of Austin's airport (AUS) and 33 miles east of the city, this small town is renowned for its barbecue. Once, a single family ran the premier barbecue spot in town, but a family feud eventually led to rival restaurants. Bad news for family gatherings; great news for barbecue lovers.

Lockhart offers much more than just smoked barbecue. This "small city with a big heart," as the town's motto claims, maintains many of its wild cowboy traditions and provides a unique perspective on Texas, especially when compared to Austin. Visit the Jail Museum to admire its Norman castellated architecture, a style popular for jails during the mid-1800s. Golfers can enjoy stunning Texas landscapes while playing at the Lockhart State Park Golf Course, which also features a swimming pool, campsite, and fishing area.

For stunning views and refreshing waters

When you think of a calm vacation by the water, Texas might not be your first thought. However, the Central Texas "Hill Country" is dotted with various swimming holes, lakes, rivers, and creeks that offer relief from the summer heat, alongside numerous hiking trails.

Within the city limits, popular spots include Barton Springs, Bull Creek, and Shoal Creek, along with their greenbelts, as well as Lady Bird Lake (previously known as Town Lake). If you seek something a bit more secluded, venture further into the Texas countryside to discover alternative options.

Float along the San Marcos, Comal, or Guadalupe rivers

If you haven't visited Central Texas yet, let me emphasize this: Our summers are sweltering. Make sure you're fully prepared for this reality before you come to visit or stay. That said, we have excellent air conditioning and plenty of relaxing outdoor activities — floating down a tranquil river with your favorite cold drink in hand is a beloved summer tradition.

When a friend suggests, "let's float the river this weekend," be sure to clarify which river you're referring to, and even which rental location you have in mind. This area is home to three major rivers that are popular for floating, all situated about 30 to 40 miles south of Austin.

There's the spring-fed San Marcos, located in the town of San Marcos, which sits exactly halfway between Austin and San Antonio. The nearby extensive outlet malls are definitely worth checking out for some travel gear after your floating adventure; then there's the shorter, spring-fed Comal in New Braunfels, just south of San Marcos; and lastly, the Guadalupe.

If you've never tried tubing before, here's what you can expect: You'll be nestled in a large inflatable tube alongside your friends, and don’t forget to bring your own drinks. Many rental locations provide string for you to connect your floats into a big raft, and it’s a good idea to get an extra tube for your cooler. You’ll begin your journey upstream at the rental facility's dock, float down to a designated stopping point, and then the facility will transport you back to where you started.

Krause Springs

Situated about 45 minutes (35 miles) west of Austin, Krause Springs is a stunning, wooded park and campsite featuring 32 natural springs, a swimming hole, trails, pools, and a quaint waterfall. It’s ideal for a quick day trip or a weekend escape; just pack a picnic and some towels to enjoy an afternoon of alternating between refreshing swims in the springs and basking in the sun on the large rocks by the swimming hole.

Jacob's Well

The Jacob's Well Natural Area, located about 35 miles southeast of Austin, encompasses an artesian spring that maintains a consistent temperature of 68 degrees year-round. The hiking trails are free and accessible to the public, but swimming is only allowed from May 1 to October 1 each year, and you'll need to make reservations in advance to swim. While hiking is an option, be cautious of the underwater caves, which are hazardous and only open to licensed professionals.

Other fantastic spots to cool off during the summer include Blue Hole and Hamilton Pool, both of which also require advance reservations. Blue Hole reopened on August 12 after a COVID-19 closure, while Hamilton Pool is still closed.

Enchanted Rock

Located about 95 miles west of Austin, Enchanted Rock is a striking monolith made of pink granite, known for its unique shape. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy here, and we suggest visiting in the fall for a hike. Keep in mind that as a state park, it may have certain restrictions due to coronavirus.

For antiques, drinks, and local charm

Fredericksburg

Just under 80 miles west of Austin, Fredericksburg and its surrounding areas are the heart of Central Texas wine country. This stunning region, often referred to as the "Texas version of Aspen" by Texas Monthly, is especially picturesque in the spring, with wildflowers bursting forth across the lush landscape. You can choose to drive yourself or opt for a winery that provides pick-up services from Austin. If wine isn't your preference, Central Texas is also famous for its breweries and distilleries, including the popular Deep Eddy vodka distillery located just south of Austin.

Round Top

Looking for antiques? Just eighty miles east of Austin lies Round Top, a treasure trove of vintage and collectible finds. This charming, eclectic town is worth a visit, even in quieter times.

However, a few times each year, Round Top transforms into an antiquing paradise during the Round Top Antiques Show, lasting nearly a week and attracting visitors and vendors from across the nation. (For a taste of Austin's coolest vintage store, don't miss Uncommon Objects in South Austin.)

For an artistic desert adventure

Marfa

For an authentic road trip experience, head west — way west. Specifically, about 430 miles from Austin.

You might already be familiar with Marfa, even if you don't realize it. If you've seen the famous "tiny Prada" store in the desert, it sits just outside this unique West Texas town. Established as a railroad water stop in the 1880s, Marfa evolved into a hub for artists and creatives beginning in the early 1970s. Today, it represents a whimsical hipster oasis in the desert, located 6.5 hours from Austin. As you drive from Austin to Marfa, you'll notice the dramatic change from hill country to arid desert.

You can experience the renowned boho glamping hotel El Cosmico, where your accommodations might be in tents or stylish vintage trailers. There are also plenty of charming Airbnb options available, including various camper rentals. For a unique experience, visit Frama Coffee at Tumbleweed Laundry, a cozy laundromat-coffee shop where you can catch up on work while doing your laundry.

Gaze at the expansive night sky from the McDonald Observatory, and make sure to drive an additional 33 miles west to snap a photo at the iconic Prada art installation. On your return east, don't miss the chance to see a similar "tiny Target" installation just 40 miles down Highway 90.

Bottom line

While Texas's small towns may be quaint, everything else tends to be larger, from the long drives to the vast open skies you'll encounter along the way. This list of destinations from Austin is just the beginning and certainly not exhaustive.