If your ideal weekend includes scenic views, small-town charm, and a glass of something delicious in hand, then Houston’s wine and beer trails are calling. These road trips take you through the lush landscapes of southeast Texas to sip award-winning wines, sample craft brews, and discover local hospitality—all within a few hours’ drive from the city.
Whether you prefer pinot or pilsner, rosé or red ale, you’ll find flavorful stops along winding country roads and cozy taprooms tucked into historic downtowns. From rolling vineyards to buzzing brew houses, this is a road trip that’s as much about the journey as the pour.
Why Houston is a Perfect Base for a Sip-Worthy Getaway
Houston’s central location puts you within easy reach of Texas’ up-and-coming wine country and a thriving craft beer scene. The surrounding countryside, dotted with wildflowers and oak trees, makes the drive between each tasting room a joy on its own. Most destinations are less than two hours away, making them ideal for weekend escapes or even day trips.
The diversity of the region shows up in every sip—from European-style wines in the Hill Country’s edges to bold, hop-forward brews from urban brewmasters. And unlike crowded tourist wine regions, many of these stops still feel personal, affordable, and deeply local.
Top Wine & Beer Trails Near Houston for Road Trip Sipping
1. Haak Winery & Vineyard – Santa Fe
Just 45 minutes from Houston, Haak Winery is one of the oldest in the Gulf Coast region. Set among tropical palm trees and historic oaks, the winery has a Mediterranean feel and a reputation for award-winning Blanc du Bois. Their patio and tasting room overlook lush vines, and their wine slushies are a hit in the Texas heat. Live music and food trucks make weekends festive.
Address: 6310 Ave T, Santa Fe, TX 77510
Hours: Mon–Thu 12 PM – 6 PM, Fri–Sun 12 PM – 7 PM
Approx Cost: Tasting flights $20
Famous For: Gulf Coast-grown Blanc du Bois and wine slushies
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book a tasting on the patio around sunset—it’s beautiful and breezy.
2. Brazos Valley Brewing Company – Brenham
Located in the charming town of Brenham, Brazos Valley Brewing Co. is a fun pit stop on the way toward the Hill Country. The outdoor beer garden often features live music, food trucks, and cornhole tournaments. Their lineup includes bold IPAs, smooth stouts, and their beloved seasonal brews like Mama Tried (a citrusy pale ale). It’s relaxed, dog-friendly, and very road-trip-worthy.
Address: 206 S Jackson St, Brenham, TX 77833
Hours: Thu–Sat 1 PM – 10 PM, Sun 1 PM – 6 PM
Approx Cost: $5–$8 per pint
Famous For: Laid-back vibe and small-batch seasonal brews
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Stop by nearby Blue Bell Creamery for dessert after your beer flight.
3. Bernhardt Winery – Plantersville
Tucked between pine trees and rolling hills, Bernhardt Winery offers Old World ambiance with Texas heart. Their estate wines include bold reds, delicate whites, and dessert wines—all sipped with panoramic views from the hillside deck. Live music on Sunday evenings draws a loyal crowd, and the vineyard often hosts wine and art festivals.
Address: 9043 County Rd 204, Plantersville, TX 77363
Hours: Thu–Sun, 12 PM – 6 PM
Approx Cost: Tastings $18–$25
Famous For: Italian-style wines and scenic vineyard views
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a lawn chair for their Sunday concerts—it turns into a mini wine fest.
4. No Label Brewing Co. – Katy
Set in a converted rice silo, No Label Brewing is one of the most iconic breweries near Houston. Their large outdoor area is perfect for groups, and it regularly hosts festivals, trivia nights, and local vendor markets. Beers range from easy-drinking lagers to creative one-offs like jalapeño ales or coffee porters.
Address: 5351 1st St, Katy, TX 77493
Hours: Mon–Thu 3 PM – 10 PM, Fri–Sun 12 PM – Midnight
Approx Cost: $6–$9 per pour
Famous For: Creative craft brews and lively outdoor events
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try their “1980” Kolsch—it’s light, crisp, and road trip ready.
5. West Sandy Creek Winery – Richards
A hidden gem in the Sam Houston National Forest, West Sandy Creek Winery blends nature, wine, and wildlife. Their wines are small-batch and sustainably produced, often paired with wood-fired pizzas or grazing boards. The property also houses exotic animals like zebras and camels—yes, really—which makes it a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Address: 1773 FM 1791, Richards, TX 77873
Hours: Fri–Sun, 12 PM – 6 PM
Approx Cost: Tastings $20
Famous For: Off-the-grid vibe and animal sanctuary meets vineyard
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book a wine safari in advance—it’s equal parts surreal and relaxing.
6. Galveston Island Brewing – Galveston
A beach town beer stop? Yes, please. Galveston Island Brewing is laid-back and breezy, with an emphasis on tropical-inspired beers and fun taproom vibes. Their “Tiki Wheat” is a coastal classic, and food trucks rotate on weekends. With picnic tables and ocean air, it’s a perfect sip-and-sunset combo.
Address: 8423 Stewart Rd, Galveston, TX 77554
Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $5–$8 per beer
Famous For: Tiki Wheat and beach town taproom vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Grab a six-pack for the beach—it’s a short drive to the shore.
7. Messina Hof Winery – Bryan
One of the most well-known wineries in Texas, Messina Hof offers an immersive wine experience with daily tastings, tours, and a full-service restaurant. Their wine library includes over 90 labels, and the vineyard hosts events like grape stomps and harvest festivals. It’s a road trip destination on its own.
Address: 4545 Old Reliance Rd, Bryan, TX 77808
Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: Tastings $18–$25
Famous For: Texas-grown varietals and full vineyard experience
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Stay overnight at their onsite villa for a full wine weekend.
What to Pack for a Sip-Friendly Road Trip
- Cooler bag for wine and beer purchases
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated between tastings
- Small notebook or phone app to rate wines and beers
- Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes for vineyard tours
- Picnic blanket for outdoor tastings
- Phone charger or portable power bank
- Designated driver plan or rideshare app
- Extra tote or wine carrier for bottles
- Valid ID for all tastings
Food & Drink Pairing Stops Near Trails
1. Royers Round Top Café – Round Top
Known for its pies and hearty Texas comfort food, Royers is a must-stop after visiting wineries in Brenham or Bryan. The quirky décor and family-run vibe add to its charm.
Address: 105 Main St, Round Top, TX 78954
Hours: Wed–Sat 11 AM – 8 PM, Sun 11 AM – 2 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$25
Famous For: Homemade pies and Southern plates
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Order the steak and a slice of junkberry pie—thank us later.
2. Central Market Café – Katy
Attached to the Central Market grocery store, this café offers gourmet sandwiches, charcuterie, and wine-friendly bites. It’s great for grabbing snacks to enjoy at nearby breweries or as a picnic on the go.
Address: 10505 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024
Hours: Daily, 8 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$18
Famous For: Picnic-ready fare and gourmet grocery pairing
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Grab some local Texas cheeses for your wine trail adventure.
3. Shrimp ‘N Stuff – Galveston
Close to Galveston Island Brewing, this casual seafood joint serves fried shrimp, fish tacos, and gumbo with Gulf Coast flair. Ideal for pairing with a cold beer after a beachside brew stop.
Address: 3901 Ave O, Galveston, TX 77550
Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $12–$20
Famous For: Crispy seafood and laid-back beach eats
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Call ahead for takeout if heading straight to the beach.
Where to Stay on the Wine & Beer Trail
1. Ant Street Inn – Brenham
This charming B&B-style hotel is located in downtown Brenham, offering antique-filled rooms and walking access to tasting rooms and restaurants. It’s cozy, romantic, and a local favorite.
Address: 107 W Commerce St, Brenham, TX 77833
Hours: Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 11 AM
Approx Cost: $140–$180
Famous For: Vintage charm and wine country ambiance
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book a room with a balcony for evening sipping.
2. The Villa at Messina Hof – Bryan
Onsite at the vineyard, The Villa offers luxurious rooms themed after famous lovers and wine regions. Each includes a Jacuzzi tub and bottle of wine on arrival. A must for wine lovers wanting to stay close to the action.
Address: 4545 Old Reliance Rd, Bryan, TX 77808
Hours: 24/7 reception
Approx Cost: $200–$300
Famous For: Romantic vineyard stay steps from the tasting room
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Perfect for anniversaries or romantic escapes.
3. Cambria Hotel – Houston Downtown
For those doing a beer-focused loop from Houston, the Cambria offers a stylish downtown base with easy access to local breweries and nightlife. Rooms are sleek and modern, with a rooftop bar and restaurant.
Address: 1314 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002
Hours: 24/7 check-in
Approx Cost: $120–$180
Famous For: Hip downtown vibe with brewery proximity
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask about valet parking for easier brewery hopping.
Local Tips & Seasonal Events
- Fall and spring are ideal for vineyard visits and patio tastings
- Many wineries host grape stomps, harvest parties, and live music Sundays
- Always check for reservations—some tastings are by appointment only
- Weekdays offer a quieter, more intimate experience
- Texas wine tends to lean sweeter—ask about dry varietals if preferred
- Bring snacks or charcuterie—some spots allow outside food
- Use a designated driver or join a local wine tour for multiple stops
- Some vineyards offer free tastings with bottle purchase—ask politely
- Most breweries rotate seasonal brews—ask what’s new on tap
- Follow your favorite spots on social media for event updates and discounts
Final Conclusion
Wine and beer trails near Houston offer more than just tasty pours—they offer story-filled landscapes, small-town discoveries, and the joy of the open road. Whether you’re sipping among vineyard rows or toasting under brewery lights, every stop adds a new flavor to your adventure.
So pack the cooler, rally your road trip crew, and set your sights on the scenic sips that surround the city. With good friends, great drinks, and beautiful drives, the perfect tasting trip is closer than you think.
