Everything’s bigger in Texas—including the possibilities for an unforgettable road trip. While many travelers rush to hit only the major cities, the true magic of Texas lies in its diversity: sprawling deserts, lush pine forests, sun-kissed beaches, historic towns, and high-tech hubs all coexist within one massive state. This 10-day Texas road trip itinerary is built to take you deep into each region—showcasing not just the sights, but the spirit of Texas.
Over 10 thoughtfully planned days, you’ll journey from the skyscrapers of Dallas to the artsy desert town of Marfa, the grandeur of Big Bend to the coastal energy of Houston, and everywhere in between. Expect iconic BBQ, hidden taco trucks, hiking through canyons, dancing under Hill Country stars, and stories waiting at every mile marker.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a proud Texan ready to rediscover your home state, this regional loop will deliver the best of Texas—one sunrise, roadside gem, and bowl of queso at a time.
Day 1: Dallas to Fort Worth – Big City Meets Western Grit
Start your journey in Dallas, a city that perfectly blends modern sophistication with historic grit. Begin the morning exploring Deep Ellum, the city’s creative soul, known for its vibrant murals, indie music venues, and a killer food scene. Grab a coffee and breakfast tacos at a local favorite like AllGood Café or Merit Coffee, then wander through the Dallas Arts District or take in a skyline view from Reunion Tower.
From there, head west to Fort Worth—just 45 minutes away, but a world apart in vibe. Fort Worth delivers a dose of Western authenticity, especially at the Stockyards National Historic District, where you can see the twice-daily cattle drive, shop for cowboy gear, or even catch a real rodeo.
No visit is complete without BBQ, so make a dinner stop at Heim Barbecue—a local legend for bacon burnt ends and brisket that melts like butter. Cap off your night with a cold beer at Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk, for live music and line dancing.
Where to Stay:
Choose a Fort Worth boutique hotel like Hotel Drover in the Stockyards for luxe Western charm, or opt for a downtown Airbnb if you want quick morning access to I-35 for your next leg.
Day 2: Fort Worth to Wichita Falls – Into the North Texas Prairie
Leave the metro behind and head northwest toward Wichita Falls, one of North Texas’s underrated gems. The drive along US-287 takes you through rolling plains and windmill-dotted farmland, showcasing Texas’s wide-open charm. It’s a relaxing 2-hour drive—perfect for cruising with a road trip playlist and windows down.
Start your visit at the Museum of North Texas History, where you’ll find exhibits on oil booms, cowboy heritage, and military aviation. A quick detour to the quirky World’s Littlest Skyscraper is worth a photo and a laugh—it’s a historic 40-foot-tall structure built from a 1919 scam.
Refuel with lunch at Scott’s Drive-In, a classic burger and shake stop beloved by locals. Later, explore Lucy Park, a peaceful green space along the Wichita River with nature trails, a suspension bridge, and a scenic waterfall—yes, the city’s namesake!
Where to Stay:
Check into the Stone Palace Hotel, a charming boutique option near downtown, or stay at Lake Arrowhead State Park for a peaceful evening under prairie stars if you’re RVing or camping.
Day 3: Wichita Falls to Palo Duro Canyon – Panhandle Wonders
Today’s journey takes you deep into the Texas Panhandle—an open-sky stretch that feels endless in the best way. Head northwest on US-287, passing cattle ranches and cotton fields until you reach Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the U.S., just outside Amarillo.
Before hitting the trails, swing through Amarillo for a photo op at Cadillac Ranch, where 10 graffiti-covered Cadillacs rise nose-first from the earth. Bring your own spray paint if you want to leave your mark (yes, it’s encouraged).
Then make your way to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, a geologic wonder carved by the Red River. Hike the Lighthouse Trail (5.7 miles round trip) for panoramic views and a close-up with the park’s famous rock formation. In spring and fall, it’s especially breathtaking with wildflowers or golden leaves.
For dinner, embrace Amarillo kitsch at the Big Texan Steak Ranch, home of the 72-oz. steak challenge—but even their regular portions are juicy and generous.
Where to Stay:
Stay inside the park at a rustic Palo Duro cabin, or camp beneath the stars. For a quirkier stay, check into the nearby Bar Z Winery yurts, combining comfort with canyon views and local wine.
Day 4: Palo Duro to Marfa – The Wild West Stretch
Today is your longest drive—nearly 6.5 hours—but it’s also one of the most rewarding. Leave the high plains of Palo Duro early and head southwest toward Marfa, an artsy desert town nestled deep in Far West Texas. The landscapes shift dramatically as you descend into the Chihuahuan Desert, with wide skies, rugged mesas, and infinite horizons.
Break up the drive with a lunch stop in Fort Stockton, where you can fuel up (literally and figuratively) and visit Paisano Pete, one of the world’s largest roadrunner statues. Grab a burger or sandwich from K-Bob’s Steakhouse or opt for something quick from a local taqueria.
Roll into Marfa by late afternoon and head straight to the Chinati Foundation, a contemporary art museum founded by Donald Judd. Minimalist sculptures scattered across old military buildings blur the line between art and desert.
As evening falls, drive east a few miles to the Marfa Lights Viewing Area—a mysterious natural phenomenon where glowing orbs dance over the desert. No one knows why they appear, but that’s part of the magic.
Where to Stay:
Book a night at El Cosmico, Marfa’s iconic bohemian lodging featuring vintage trailers, yurts, and teepees. If you prefer modern comforts, Hotel Saint George offers sleek rooms and local art with walking access to downtown.
Day 5: Marfa to Big Bend – Into the Desert Frontier
Day 5 is about entering one of the most awe-inspiring natural frontiers in the U.S.—Big Bend National Park. From Marfa, head south along the FM 170 River Road, widely regarded as one of the most scenic drives in Texas. This route hugs the Rio Grande and offers dramatic overlooks, twisting canyons, and desert vistas that feel untouched by time.
Stop for a brief exploration in Presidio, then continue on through Big Bend Ranch State Park, where you can hike short trails like Closed Canyon or take in the views from The Big Hill Overlook. This drive is about immersion—there’s little cell service, no big towns, just the road, the river, and the rugged beauty of West Texas.
Enter Big Bend National Park by early afternoon. Visit the Fossil Discovery Exhibit, hike Santa Elena Canyon, or simply relax and take in the silence. Before sunset, soak in the Boquillas Hot Springs, a natural thermal pool beside the Rio Grande, especially refreshing after a day of desert exploration.
Where to Stay:
Reserve a room at the Chisos Mountains Lodge, the only hotel within the park, offering epic sunrise views. Campers can choose from Rio Grande Village, Cottonwood, or Chisos Basin campgrounds for a more immersive desert night under the stars.
Day 6: Big Bend to Del Rio – Border Culture & Canyons
As you leave Big Bend behind, head east toward Del Rio, a lesser-known border town rich in culture, history, and nature. The route cuts through desert terrain and small West Texas towns, offering glimpses of wide skies and quiet beauty. Midway through the drive, stop in Langtry—a tiny town famous for the Judge Roy Bean Visitor Center, where you’ll learn about the “Law West of the Pecos” and the eccentric justice who ruled it.
Continue east to Amistad National Recreation Area, just north of Del Rio. This massive reservoir, formed by the Rio Grande, is a paradise for kayakers, fishermen, and anyone who appreciates a swim on a hot Texas day. The blend of turquoise water and arid landscape is striking, and there are plenty of picnic areas and short trails for a peaceful break.
In Del Rio itself, dive into authentic Tex-Mex at Manuel’s Steakhouse or Julio’s, a local legend known for its seasoning (yes, the one sold in stores). Pair your meal with a visit to Val Verde Winery, the oldest bonded winery in Texas, still family-run and offering tastings of regional varietals.
Where to Stay:
Book a stay at Whispering Palms Inn for charming retro-style lodging near downtown or opt for a cabin on the edge of Lake Amistad if you’re looking to stargaze and reconnect with nature.
Day 7: Del Rio to San Antonio – Missions and Margaritas
Today’s route takes you from the quiet borderlands of Del Rio into the vibrant heart of San Antonio, one of Texas’s most historic and flavorful cities. The drive is about 2.5 hours, mostly along US-90 and I-35, with plenty of wide-open views and glimpses of rural South Texas.
Start your day with a light breakfast before hitting the road—because you’ll want to arrive in San Antonio hungry. Once in town, head straight to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This string of beautifully preserved 18th-century missions (including the famous Mission San José) offers a quieter, deeper historical experience than the Alamo—and fewer crowds.
After working up an appetite, make your way downtown for lunch along the San Antonio River Walk, a scenic network of walkways lined with shops and restaurants. Grab a plate of enchiladas or sizzling fajitas at Boudro’s on the Riverwalk, known for tableside guacamole and prickly pear margaritas.
In the afternoon, take time to explore the Historic Market Square, browse local artisan shops, or visit the San Antonio Museum of Art. For dinner, head to Mi Tierra Café y Panadería, a beloved 24-hour Mexican restaurant decked in Christmas lights year-round.
Where to Stay:
Check into the Hotel Valencia Riverwalk for upscale digs in the heart of the city, or stay at Traveler’s World RV Resort just south of downtown if you’re road-tripping in an RV
Day 8: San Antonio to Austin – Hill Country Back Roads
Trade the bustling streets of San Antonio for the scenic serenity of the Texas Hill Country. Instead of taking the interstate straight to Austin, wind your way through charming backroads with stops in classic small towns that deliver big on character—and flavor.
Start your journey with a detour to Bandera, known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” Grab coffee and a kolache from a local bakery, and if timing allows, catch a horseback riding tour or stroll through the Frontier Times Museum.
From there, take the winding roads toward Wimberley, a Hill Country treasure known for its swimming holes and relaxed vibe. Stop at Jacob’s Well Natural Area or Blue Hole Regional Park for a quick dip in cool, spring-fed waters. These are two of Texas’s most beloved natural swimming spots—refreshing and photogenic.
Arrive in Austin by late afternoon. This capital city is a perfect mix of urban energy and natural beauty. Explore South Congress Avenue for boutique shopping, street art, and some of the best food trucks in the state. Dine at Loro, an Asian-Texan smokehouse collaboration from the creators of Franklin BBQ and Uchi, or head to Home Slice Pizza for family-friendly fare.
Where to Stay:
Book a stylish room at Hotel San José in South Austin, or opt for a retro-cool Airbnb in East Austin if you want something walkable with personality. RVers can find shaded spots at Pecan Grove RV Park, just minutes from downtown.
Day 9: Austin to Bastrop & East Texas Forest
On Day 9, leave Austin’s music-fueled energy behind and head southeast to explore a quieter, greener side of Texas. In less than an hour, you’ll reach Bastrop, a historic town known as the “Heart of the Lost Pines” thanks to its unique pocket of loblolly pines that rise unexpectedly from the prairie.
Start your day with a stroll through Downtown Bastrop, where 19th-century storefronts house boutiques, galleries, and cozy cafes. Grab breakfast at Coffee Dog Roastery, then make your way to Bastrop State Park, where hiking and biking trails weave through fire-regrowth forests and serene lakeside landscapes.
Afterward, explore Buescher State Park just down the road—connected to Bastrop via a scenic, winding drive through the piney woods. This lesser-known park offers peaceful picnic spots, canoe rentals, and birdwatching away from the crowds.
For lunch or early dinner, stop by Paw Paw’s Catfish House or enjoy comfort food classics at Roadhouse Bastrop, a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
Where to Stay:
Book a rustic cabin inside Bastrop State Park, or stay in a charming cottage along the Colorado River. RVers will find full hookups and shaded serenity at Lake Bastrop North Shore Park.
Day 10: Bastrop to Houston – Gulf Coast Farewell
Your final day winds through pine forests and into the urban energy of Houston, Texas’s largest and most diverse city. The 2.5-hour drive from Bastrop brings you from small-town quiet to sprawling metropolis—but don’t worry, the city has one more unforgettable chapter waiting to end your journey on a high note.
Begin with a stop at Space Center Houston, the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. With full-size rockets, astronaut exhibits, and behind-the-scenes tram tours, it’s one of the most immersive science experiences in the country.
Next, head into Houston’s Museum District, where you can choose from gems like the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Museum of Fine Arts, or the Children’s Museum Houston—especially great if you’re road-tripping with family.
For your final feast, explore Houston’s food scene, which spans the globe. Try Viet-Cajun crawfish at Crawfish & Noodles, a James Beard–nominated hotspot, or indulge in Gulf oysters and Texas beef at State of Grace. If you’re in the mood for something quick and local, hit The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation for legendary fajitas and margaritas.
Where to Stay:
For your last night, book a stay at the Laura Hotel, a stylish downtown boutique with skyline views and luxe amenities. Prefer peace before your departure? The Houston Arboretum area offers hotels near quiet green space just minutes from city hotspots.
Where to Stay: Unique, Regional Lodging Across Texas
One of the best parts of a Texas road trip is the incredible range of lodging options, from luxury city stays to starry-sky desert escapes. Here are some of the most memorable and regional-specific places to stay during your 10-day adventure:
Boutique Hotels in Austin & San Antonio
In cities like Austin and San Antonio, boutique hotels combine comfort with local flavor. Hotel Valencia Riverwalk in San Antonio offers riverside elegance with Spanish colonial flair, while Hotel San José in Austin delivers hip, minimalist rooms just steps from South Congress.State Park Cabins & Campsites
Texas’s state parks—like Bastrop, Palo Duro Canyon, and Big Bend—feature well-maintained campgrounds and rustic cabins that immerse you in nature. They’re perfect for stargazing, early morning hikes, and disconnecting from digital life.Quirky Desert Stays in Marfa
Marfa’s reputation for creativity extends to its accommodations. El Cosmico features renovated trailers, yurts, and teepees, creating a desert glamping experience unlike anywhere else in Texas.Historic Inns & Downtown Charm
In towns like Wichita Falls, Del Rio, and Bastrop, stay in locally run inns or restored historic hotels. You’ll often find original architecture, family-run hospitality, and walkable downtown access.RV Parks with Personality
If you’re road-tripping with an RV, Texas delivers with options like Traveler’s World RV Resort in San Antonio or Pecan Grove RV Park in Austin—both offering great amenities close to city centers.
Must-Have Road Trip Tools & Apps
A great Texas road trip isn’t just about where you go—it’s also about how you plan, navigate, and enjoy the ride. These trusted tools and apps will help you stay efficient, safe, and spontaneous while discovering Texas’s backroads and hidden gems.
Roadtrippers
The go-to planning app for plotting epic road trip routes. Roadtrippers lets you discover scenic drives, quirky roadside stops, restaurants, and off-the-beaten-path attractions—plus, it calculates mileage and gas costs.GasBuddy
Essential for budget travelers, GasBuddy helps you find the cheapest fuel prices along your route in real time. With Texas being so vast, this app could save you serious money over the course of 10 days.DriveTexas
Run by the Texas Department of Transportation, DriveTexas offers up-to-date traffic conditions, road closures, and weather alerts—especially valuable when driving through rural or flood-prone areas.Hotels.com
For last-minute lodging or comparing hotel rates on the fly, Hotels.com remains one of the most traveler-friendly booking platforms. Use filters to find pet-friendly, budget, or highly rated stays across Texas.AllTrails
Perfect for nature lovers, AllTrails offers maps, user reviews, and trail difficulty ratings for hundreds of hiking and biking paths throughout Texas—from Big Bend to Bastrop.Spotify
What’s a Texas road trip without the perfect soundtrack? Create your own playlist or browse curated road trip mixes to enhance long drives through Texas’s varied landscapes.
Hidden Gems Worth the Detour
Some of the most unforgettable Texas road trip memories come from spontaneous detours. Here are a few lesser-known but truly rewarding stops scattered across your 10-day journey—perfect for stretching your legs, snapping photos, or simply slowing down the pace.
Caprock Canyons State Park (Near Palo Duro)
Often overshadowed by Palo Duro Canyon, Caprock offers rugged red cliffs, hiking trails, and herds of free-roaming bison. It’s quieter, wilder, and deeply photogenic.
Address: 850 Caprock Canyon Park Rd, Quitaque, TX 79255
For more info: Visit Website
Terlingua Ghost Town (Near Big Bend)
This former mining town has reinvented itself as a funky desert outpost with adobe ruins, quirky art, live music, and cold drinks at the Starlight Theatre Saloon. Sunset here feels like a scene from a Western dream.
Address: Terlingua Ghost Town, TX 79852
For more info: Visit Website
Monahans Sandhills State Park (West Texas)
An unexpected slice of Sahara in the Permian Basin, this park features massive dunes ideal for sandboarding, photography, or quiet contemplation. It’s serene and surreal.
Address: 2500 Interstate 20 E, Monahans, TX 79756
For more info: Visit Website
Old Tunnel State Park (Near Fredericksburg)
At dusk, millions of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from this abandoned railroad tunnel. Bring a chair, settle in, and watch one of nature’s most mesmerizing spectacles (seasonal, May–October).
Address: 10619 Old San Antonio Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
For more info: Visit Website
La King’s Confectionery (Galveston, optional Gulf Coast add-on)
If you take a bonus detour to the coast, visit this vintage candy shop for handmade saltwater taffy and root beer floats, made the old-fashioned way behind a 1920s soda fountain counter.
Address: 2323 Strand St, Galveston, TX 77550
For more info: Visit Website
Final Thoughts
A 10-day Texas road trip offers more than just a getaway—it’s a journey through landscapes as diverse as the cultures, cuisines, and communities that define the Lone Star State. From the bold skyline of Dallas to the star-soaked skies of Big Bend, from brisket in the Hill Country to modern art in Marfa, this route is designed to deliver deep, immersive experiences across every region of Texas.
You’ll pass through oil towns and college hubs, desert quiet and city bustle, discovering that every stop has its own story—and every mile tells a new one. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or as a family, this 10-day itinerary helps you go beyond the bucket list. It’s about slowing down, looking closer, and letting Texas surprise you.
So fill up the tank, pack an appetite for adventure, and don’t forget your sense of curiosity. The road ahead is long, wide, and unforgettable.
