When the open road calls, San Antonio answers with scenic routes, rolling hills, and small-town gems that make road tripping feel like a breeze. Surrounded by the lush Texas Hill Country and dotted with charming backroads, San Antonio is the perfect launchpad for relaxing, picture-perfect drives that soothe your soul and spark your wanderlust.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic drive, a family day out, or a solo escape into nature, these scenic routes deliver a mix of peaceful landscapes, cultural richness, and roadside surprises. This guide features the top drives that showcase the beauty of South Central Texas — all within a short trip from San Antonio.
Why Scenic Drives Near San Antonio Are Worth the Ride
From winding hilltop highways to shaded river roads, the region around San Antonio offers some of the most tranquil and visually stunning drives in Texas. You’ll pass through wildflower meadows, canyons, wineries, state parks, and historic towns — all while avoiding the stress of heavy traffic or long distances.
Best of all, many of these drives can be enjoyed in a single afternoon, with options to stretch them into overnight getaways if you want to linger under the big Texas sky.
Top Scenic Drives Around San Antonio
1. Willow City Loop
This legendary 13-mile stretch just north of Fredericksburg is one of the most beautiful drives in Texas — especially during bluebonnet season. Expect winding roads through rolling hills, blooming wildflowers, and sweeping vistas of ranch land.
Address: Start near TX-16 N and Willow City Loop, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Spring wildflowers, especially bluebonnets
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit in late March or April for the best wildflower displays — but be respectful of private property.
2. River Road (New Braunfels to Canyon Lake)
This 10-mile drive hugs the Guadalupe River, winding past towering cypress trees, river tubing spots, and scenic cliffs. It’s especially popular during summer and makes a great pairing with a float or picnic by the river.
Address: River Road, New Braunfels, TX 78132
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Riverside beauty and tubing outfitters
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Drive early in the morning for peace and fog-laced views, or enjoy it post-float for a golden hour glow.
3. Texas State Highway 16 (Bandera to Kerrville)
This route combines the rustic charm of Bandera — the Cowboy Capital of the World — with serene drives through wooded hills and ranchland. As you approach Kerrville, you’ll see the Guadalupe River meandering alongside the highway.
Address: TX-16 between Bandera and Kerrville, TX
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Hill Country curves and cowboy culture
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Stop for lunch in Bandera and enjoy a riverside park in Kerrville to complete your loop.
4. FM 337 (Medina to Leakey)
This stretch of FM 337 is part of the iconic Twisted Sisters drive and offers spectacular panoramic views, switchbacks, and scenic elevation changes. It’s a favorite among motorcyclists and photographers alike.
Address: FM 337, starting near Medina, TX
Hours: Daylight recommended
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Dramatic views and sharp curves
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Drive slowly and enjoy the views — there are several safe pull-offs perfect for photo ops.
5. Mission Trail
For a culturally rich urban drive, follow the San Antonio Mission Trail, connecting five historic missions (including The Alamo). This route winds through parklands and neighborhoods, offering history with every mile.
Address: Begin at The Alamo, 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX
Hours: Daylight hours
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: UNESCO Heritage Sites and history-packed drive
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Combine driving with short walks — each mission has a peaceful park worth exploring.
6. Boerne to Sisterdale via FM 473
A lesser-known but incredibly peaceful drive through vineyards, cattle pastures, and limestone cliffs. Sisterdale is a tiny town with a big personality — home to a historic dance hall and winery.
Address: FM 473 from Boerne to Sisterdale, TX
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Quiet countryside and wine country vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Stop at Sister Creek Vineyards for a tasting and live music in the cellar.
7. Scenic Loop Road (Grey Forest)
Just outside San Antonio, this short but sweet route loops through the hills of Grey Forest, a charming enclave with winding roads, dense oaks, and rustic homes. It’s the perfect mini-escape within city limits.
Address: Scenic Loop Rd, Helotes/Grey Forest, TX
Hours: Open 24/7
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Hidden urban nature drive
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Follow it up with breakfast at The Cracked Mug or a hike at nearby Government Canyon.
Packing Tips for a Scenic Road Trip from San Antonio
- Reusable water bottles and car snacks
- Fully charged phone with offline maps or GPS
- Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
- Road trip playlist or downloaded podcasts
- Printed map or directions for remote areas
- Lightweight binoculars for nature spotting
- Camera or phone with extra storage
- Blanket or chairs for picnic stops
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- Cooler with drinks and snacks for the day
Food & Drink Stops Along the Scenic Drives
1. The Leaning Pear – Wimberley, TX
A Hill Country favorite with seasonal dishes, garden views, and a chic rustic vibe — perfect after a Willow City or FM 337 drive.
Address: 111 River Rd, Wimberley, TX 78676
Hours: Wed–Sun, 11 AM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$30
Famous For: Farm-to-table dishes with local flair
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try the wood-fired flatbread and house lemonade on the patio.
2. OST Restaurant – Bandera, TX
A Western-style diner with saddle stools, cowboy memorabilia, and hearty comfort food. A great stop before or after exploring TX-16.
Address: 305 Main St, Bandera, TX 78003
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$20
Famous For: Chicken-fried steak and Texas-sized breakfast plates
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Browse the John Wayne Room while waiting for your food.
3. Sister Creek Vineyards – Sisterdale, TX
A cozy, family-run winery offering tastings in a historic cotton gin building. Ideal for relaxing after the Boerne to Sisterdale drive.
Address: 1142 Sisterdale Rd, Sisterdale, TX 78006
Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 6 PM
Approx Cost: Tastings $10–$20
Famous For: Barrel-aged reds and charming setting
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Check their calendar for weekend music or cellar events.
Accommodations Along the Scenic Route
1. Hangar Hotel – Fredericksburg, TX
An aviation-themed boutique hotel located next to a real airfield. Classy, nostalgic, and perfectly placed for Hill Country exploration.
Address: 155 Airport Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $180–$250
Famous For: Vintage charm and airport views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit the Officer’s Club lounge for cocktails and WWII-era vibes.
2. Pecan Street Inn – Johnson City, TX
A charming B&B in the heart of wine country. Offers easy access to scenic drives, LBJ Ranch, and the 290 Wine Trail.
Address: 101 N Pecan St, Johnson City, TX 78636
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $120–$180
Famous For: Homey charm and proximity to Hill Country highlights
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book during wildflower season for unbeatable views along the drive.
3. Hotel Valencia Riverwalk – San Antonio, TX
For those starting and ending their trip in the city, this riverside hotel offers boutique comfort and a central base.
Address: 150 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $200–$300
Famous For: Elegant, romantic setting on the River Walk
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask for a balcony room and enjoy views with your morning coffee.
Local Tips for Scenic Driving Near San Antonio
- Fill up with gas before heading into rural areas — stations are sparse
- Pack extra water and light snacks for longer loops
- Avoid speeding — some roads have cattle crossings or blind turns
- Start early to beat traffic and catch golden hour light on the return
- Check seasonal road closures or event traffic in towns like Fredericksburg
- Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) offer the best scenery and temps
- Keep a picnic blanket handy — many roadside parks offer quiet places to relax
- Bring a paper map for areas with poor reception
- Stop often and explore — the real joy is in the hidden side roads
Final Conclusion
The scenic drives around San Antonio offer more than just a means of getting from point A to B — they deliver peace, discovery, and that undeniable joy of the open road. Whether you’re tracing the curves of FM 337, drifting along the River Road, or wandering through wine country, each drive reveals a different flavor of Texas.
So roll your windows down, cue up your favorite playlist, and let these serene, soul-refreshing roads lead the way. From spring wildflowers to fall foliage, San Antonio’s scenic routes are ready whenever you are.
