Everything’s bigger in Texas—including the road trips. This 7-day Texas road trip itinerary is your ultimate guide to exploring the Lone Star State in one unforgettable week. From vibrant cities like Austin and San Antonio to the wide-open beauty of Big Bend and the quirky desert vibes of Marfa, this route stitches together the very best of Texas—no fluff, just the must-sees. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family, this itinerary balances culture, history, natural wonders, and culinary landmarks in perfect proportion.
Texas spans over 260,000 square miles, and trying to see it all in a week is impossible—but this expertly curated route gets you the most high-impact experiences in just 7 days. You’ll hit legendary BBQ joints, historic missions, star-lit deserts, and scenic byways through Hill Country and West Texas. The trip begins in Austin and loops through central, western, and southern regions before returning, giving you a full circle of Texas at its finest.
Buckle up—this is your one-week road trip plan to see the best of the best in Texas.
Day 1: Austin – Live Music, BBQ & Hill Country Start
The Texas capital makes the perfect launchpad for your 7-day road trip. Austin blends creative energy, natural springs, and a nationally acclaimed food and music scene—all in a walkable city center. Arrive early to make the most of the day.
1. Breakfast at Josephine House
Start your day on a stylish note at this charming cottage-turned-café nestled in the historic Clarksville neighborhood. Known for its locally sourced menu and airy patio, Josephine House serves up a refined but hearty Texas breakfast—think lemon ricotta pancakes, avocado toast with farm eggs, and French press coffee. It’s the kind of spot where Austin’s character—laid-back but sophisticated—shines.
Address: 1601 Waterston Ave, Austin, TX 78703
For more info: josephineofaustin.com
2. Tour the Texas State Capitol
Just minutes away, take a free self-guided or official tour of the Texas State Capitol—one of the most impressive state buildings in the U.S. Built from sunset-red granite and taller than the U.S. Capitol in D.C., this building is rich in both history and grandeur. Don’t miss the panoramic views of Congress Avenue from the front lawn.
Address: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
For more info: tspb.texas.gov
3. Barton Springs & Zilker Park
Cool off with a swim at Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed oasis in Zilker Park. With water temperatures averaging 68–70°F year-round, it’s refreshing no matter the season. After your dip, stroll through Zilker’s sprawling trails or rent a kayak on Lady Bird Lake for skyline views.
Address: 2201 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
For more info: austintexas.gov
4. Explore South Congress + The Continental Club
In the late afternoon, head to South Congress Avenue, a funky strip packed with local boutiques, mural walls, and Austin vibes. Snap a selfie at the “I love you so much” mural, shop handmade goods, and catch a live show at The Continental Club, an iconic venue that’s been rocking since 1955.
Address: 1315 South Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
For more info: continentalclub.com
5. Stay: Hotel San José
End the night with a stay at Hotel San José, a minimalist-cool boutique hotel right on South Congress. With lush courtyards, modern rooms, and an unbeatable location, it captures the spirit of Austin—creative, calm, and a little rebellious. Perfect for unwinding after a full day.
Address: 1316 South Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
For more info: sanjosehotel.com
Day 2: San Antonio – History, Culture & Riverwalk
Only 80 miles from Austin, San Antonio offers a complete shift in atmosphere. It’s a city that blends Spanish colonial roots with vibrant Mexican-American culture, set along one of the most scenic downtowns in the country. Arrive mid-morning to start your deep dive into one of Texas’s most soulful cities.
1. The Alamo & San Fernando Cathedral
Begin your day at The Alamo, the most iconic symbol of Texas independence. Explore the 18th-century Spanish mission and battleground that helped define Texas’s revolutionary spirit. Afterward, walk a few blocks to San Fernando Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in the U.S., dating back to 1731.
Address:
The Alamo: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205
San Fernando Cathedral: 115 Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205
For more info:
thealamo.org
sanfernandocathedral.org
2. Mission Reach Trail (Bike or Walk)
Explore San Antonio’s other historic missions—Mission Concepción, San José, San Juan, and Espada—connected by the scenic Mission Reach Trail along the San Antonio River. Rent a bike or walk a portion of the 8-mile path, a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of wildlife, murals, and heritage.
Address: 6701 San Jose Dr, San Antonio, TX 78214 (Mission San José starting point)
For more info: nps.gov/saan
3. Lunch at Mi Tierra Café y Panadería
Step into a kaleidoscope of color, light, and mariachi music at Mi Tierra, a 24-hour Mexican restaurant and bakery in Market Square. Family-run since 1941, it’s famous for its enchiladas, margaritas, and pan dulce (Mexican sweet bread). It’s not just a meal—it’s a full cultural experience.
Address: 218 Produce Row, San Antonio, TX 78207
For more info: mitierracafe.com
4. Evening Riverwalk Cruise & Dinner
As the sun sets, head to the San Antonio River Walk, a charming network of cobblestone paths, bridges, and lush landscaping. Book a GO RIO river cruise for a narrated tour, then dine riverside under string lights at Boudro’s or Ocho—two local favorites that combine ambiance with serious flavor.
Address: 849 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205 (GO RIO Dock)
For more info: goriocruises.com
5. Stay: Hotel Emma at The Pearl
Spend the night at Hotel Emma, housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century brewhouse. Located in the Pearl District, this luxury hotel is both stylish and steeped in history. With culinary delights and shops nearby, it’s a destination in itself.
Address: 136 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215
For more info: thehotelemma.com
Day 3: Hill Country Detour – Fredericksburg & Wine Road 290
Day three offers a slower pace and a scenic detour through the Texas Hill Country, where vineyards, limestone bluffs, and German heritage blend beautifully. The drive from San Antonio to Fredericksburg is just under 90 minutes, and the scenery along Highway 87 makes every mile worth it.
1. Morning Drive to Fredericksburg
Leave San Antonio after breakfast and cruise into wine country. On your way, enjoy rolling hills, wildflowers (especially in spring), and small towns with big charm. If time permits, stop briefly in Boerne for local shops or a pastry at Bear Moon Bakery.
Address (Boerne stop): 401 S Main St, Boerne, TX 78006
For more info: visitboerne.org
2. Fredericksburg Main Street Stroll
Upon arrival, park downtown and take a walking tour of Main Street, lined with boutiques, German bakeries, antique stores, and wine tasting rooms. Visit the Pioneer Museum for a look at 19th-century German settler life and pop into Java Ranch for a locally roasted coffee.
Address: 312 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
For more info: visitfredericksburgtx.com
3. Wine Tasting on Wine Road 290
Fredericksburg is the heart of Texas wine country, with over 50 wineries in the area. Choose two or three from Wine Road 290, including:
Grape Creek Vineyards – Napa-style estate with Italian varietals
Becker Vineyards – Lavender fields + bold reds in a rustic setting
Barons Creek Vineyards – Beautiful grounds and Tuscan architecture
Designate a driver or use a local wine shuttle for safety.
Address (Grape Creek): 10587 E US-290, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
For more info: grapecreek.com
4. German Lunch at The Ausländer
Settle in for lunch at The Ausländer, one of Fredericksburg’s most authentic Bavarian-inspired restaurants. Try the jägerschnitzel or bratwurst with sauerkraut, and pair it with a cold German lager. Outdoor seating is ideal on sunny days.
Address: 323 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
For more info: theauslander.com
5. Stay: Hoffman Haus or Camp at Enchanted Rock
You have two great options for the night:
Hoffman Haus: A boutique B&B tucked behind Main Street with private cottages and a legendary delivered breakfast
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: For campers and hikers, spend the night near this massive pink granite dome with hiking and stargazing
Address (Hoffman Haus): 608 E Creek St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
For more info: hoffmanhaus.com
Address (Enchanted Rock): 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov
Day 4: West Texas Drive – Scenic Stretch to Marfa
Today is about the journey as much as the destination. You’ll traverse the vast, cinematic landscapes of West Texas, ending the day in Marfa, a high-desert town famed for its art scene, mystery lights, and surreal remoteness. The drive from Fredericksburg to Marfa takes about 6.5 hours, so plan for scenic stops and a steady pace.
1. Depart Early & Drive Through the Hill Country Fade
Leave Fredericksburg just after sunrise to soak up early golden light as you head west on US-290, merging with I-10. As the Hill Country slowly gives way to desert terrain, you’ll pass towns like Junction and Ozona, ideal for fuel and coffee breaks.
Address (fuel & rest stop in Junction): 2421 Main St, Junction, TX 76849
For more info: junctiontexas.net
2. Lunch in Alpine – Cow Dog Food Truck
By midday, stop in Alpine, a small college town with character. Park near Cow Dog, a cult-favorite food truck serving gourmet hot dogs with fresh toppings on toasted buns. Grab a “Berlin Dog” with sauerkraut and spicy mustard and enjoy it picnic-style under the West Texas sun.
Address: 215 E Holland Ave, Alpine, TX 79830
For more info: facebook.com/cowdoghotdogs
3. Arrive in Marfa & Explore Town
Marfa may be small, but its cultural footprint is enormous. Founded as a water stop, it evolved into a minimalist art mecca thanks to Donald Judd’s installations and permanent galleries. Wander through:
The Chinati Foundation (by appointment)
Local boutiques like Communitie and Wrong Store
Pop into Marfa Book Company inside Hotel Saint George
Address (Chinati Foundation): 1 Cavalry Row, Marfa, TX 79843
For more info: chinati.org
4. Sunset at the Marfa Lights Viewing Area
Just east of town, visit the Marfa Lights Viewing Area at dusk. These mysterious glowing orbs have baffled visitors for over a century. Whether they’re atmospheric illusions or something stranger, the wide-open sky and desert silence make this a mystical stop.
Address: US-90, 9 miles east of Marfa, TX 79843
For more info: visitmarfa.com
5. Stay: El Cosmico
Marfa is not your average town, and El Cosmico is not your average hotel. Choose from vintage trailers, yurts, safari tents, or tepees, all styled with funky boho flair. There are communal hammocks, wood-fired hot tubs, and a shared kitchen—all set under a blanket of stars.
Address: 802 S Highland Ave, Marfa, TX 79843
For more info: elcosmico.com
Day 5: Big Bend National Park – Desert Majesty
One of the crown jewels of Texas, Big Bend National Park is an awe-inspiring expanse of desert, mountain, and river landscapes tucked along the U.S.–Mexico border. Day 5 takes you from the artful quirk of Marfa to the raw natural beauty of Big Bend, offering a full day of hiking, scenic driving, and dark-sky stargazing.
1. Drive to Big Bend via Study Butte
Leave Marfa early and drive south through Alpine to Study Butte, the western gateway to Big Bend. The route winds through high desert and empty plains before dipping into the Chihuahuan Desert. Stop at the Panther Junction Visitor Center for maps, trail updates, and essential safety tips.
Address (Panther Junction Visitor Center): Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
For more info: nps.gov/bibe
2. Hike Santa Elena Canyon or Lost Mine Trail
Big Bend is known for its dramatic hiking trails. Choose one of the park’s best half-day hikes:
Santa Elena Canyon Trail: A relatively easy 1.7-mile round trip along the Rio Grande, with towering 1,500-foot cliffs and water-accessible photo spots.
Lost Mine Trail: A moderately strenuous 4.8-mile hike with sweeping views of the Chisos Mountains—especially magical at sunrise or late afternoon.
Both offer signature views that define the Big Bend experience.
Trailhead Address (Santa Elena Canyon): Ross Maxwell Scenic Dr, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
For more info: nps.gov/bibe
3. Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
This 30-mile drive showcases some of the park’s most picturesque views. Pull off at Tuff Canyon, Sotol Vista, and Castolon Historic District to stretch your legs and soak up geologic marvels. Wildlife sightings (javelina, roadrunners, hawks) are common.
Address (start of Ross Maxwell Drive): Near Maverick Junction, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
For more info: nps.gov/bibe
4. Dinner at the Starlight Theatre in Terlingua
After a day in the wild, head to Terlingua Ghost Town, a dusty outpost with bohemian vibes. Dine at the Starlight Theatre, a former 1930s movie house turned legendary eatery with live music, cold drinks, and dishes like tequila-marinated quail or chicken-fried antelope.
Address: 631 Ivey Rd, Terlingua, TX 79852
For more info: thestarlighttheatre.com
5. Stay: Chisos Mountains Lodge or Camp in the Park
End your day under the stars. Choose between:
Chisos Mountains Lodge: The only lodge inside the park, offering rustic comfort and unbeatable access to trailheads.
Camping: Reserve in advance at Rio Grande Village, Chisos Basin, or Cottonwood campgrounds—some of the darkest night skies in the U.S. await.
Address (Chisos Lodge): Basin Junction, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
For more info: chisosmountainslodge.com
Day 6: Heading North – Fort Davis + Davis Mountains
After the remote grandeur of Big Bend, Day 6 offers a scenic and peaceful transition northward into the Davis Mountains, one of Texas’s most underrated natural regions. Anchored by the historic town of Fort Davis, today is all about high-altitude beauty, astronomy, and crisp mountain air.
1. Breakfast in Terlingua, Then Depart
Wake up with a sunrise view over the desert and grab breakfast at Espresso … y poco más, a beloved roadside café in Terlingua. Try their breakfast burrito, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and strong espresso before hitting the road.
Address: 100 TX-170, Terlingua, TX 79852
For more info: facebook.com/expressopocomas
From there, the drive to Fort Davis takes about 2.5 hours via TX-118, a scenic highway with minimal traffic and vast desert vistas that slowly rise into forested hills.
2. Explore Fort Davis National Historic Site
Arrive in town and step back into the 1800s at the Fort Davis National Historic Site, one of the best-preserved frontier military posts in the American Southwest. Walk through restored barracks, officer homes, and museums that bring Texas frontier life to vivid detail.
Address: 101 Lt. Flipper Dr, Fort Davis, TX 79734
For more info: nps.gov/foda
3. McDonald Observatory
Just 15 miles outside town, the McDonald Observatory offers daytime solar viewings and guided tours, as well as star parties on select nights. The high elevation and clear skies make this one of the top stargazing locations in North America.
Address: 3640 Dark Sky Dr, Fort Davis, TX 79734
For more info: mcdonaldobservatory.org
4. Davis Mountains State Park Scenic Drive or Hike
Explore Davis Mountains State Park, which offers panoramic views from Skyline Drive and well-maintained hiking trails ranging from short nature walks to 5-mile loops. The cooler climate and pine-dotted terrain provide a refreshing change from desert landscapes.
Address: TX-118 N, Fort Davis, TX 79734
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov
5. Stay: Indian Lodge
Spend the night at Indian Lodge, a white adobe-style hotel built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Nestled inside the state park, it’s both a historic treasure and a peaceful retreat, offering rustic comfort, on-site dining, and unbeatable sunrise views.
Address: TX-118 N, Fort Davis, TX 79734
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov
Day 7: Return to Central Texas via Sonora Caves
Your final day winds through West Texas back toward Central Texas, wrapping up the journey with one last awe-inspiring natural wonder. From Fort Davis, you’ll drive east through rugged ranchland and rolling plains, with a memorable stop at one of the most stunning cave systems in the country.
1. Depart Fort Davis Early for Scenic Drive
Start your morning with coffee and a light breakfast at Stone Village Market, a charming general store and café in downtown Fort Davis. Then begin your drive east toward Sonora, roughly 3.5 hours via TX-17 and I-10. This route includes rolling landscapes, wildlife sightings, and minimal traffic.
Address (Stone Village Market): 509 State St, Fort Davis, TX 79734
For more info: stonevillagetouristcamp.com
2. Explore the Caverns of Sonora
Located just outside the small town of Sonora, the Caverns of Sonora are widely considered one of the most beautiful show caves in North America. Guided walking tours lead you through intricate formations of crystal, helictites, and flowstones in chambers 155 feet below ground. The air is a cool 72°F year-round—a welcome break from the Texas sun.
Tours last about 1.75 hours, and reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays.
Address: 1711 PR 4468, Sonora, TX 76950
For more info: cavernsofsonora.com
3. Picnic Lunch and Final Stretch
After the cave tour, enjoy a relaxing picnic on the grounds or grab lunch in the town of Sonora. Local favorites include Sutton County Steakhouse or Dairy Queen for a classic road trip vibe. From there, continue east toward Austin or San Antonio, depending on your loop.
Sonora to Austin: ~3.5 hours
Sonora to San Antonio: ~2.5 hours
This marks the end of your Texas loop, having covered cities, rivers, deserts, hills, and the underground in just one incredible week.
4. Optional Final Stop: Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood
If your route takes you near Austin around dinner, swing by the iconic Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood. With picnic tables under oak trees, slow-cooked brisket, and family-style service, it’s the perfect Texas farewell.
Address: 18300 Farm to Market Rd 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619
For more info: saltlickbbq.com
Where to Stay: Best Lodging Options by Region
Whether you prefer boutique hotels, rustic cabins, or unique desert stays, Texas offers a wide range of lodging experiences that reflect the character of each destination. Here’s a curated mix of stays across the itinerary—from luxury to laid-back, family-friendly to off-the-grid.
1. Austin – Boutique Vibes & Central Access
Hotel San José is the ideal stay for those who want to be in the heart of South Congress. With minimalist design, peaceful courtyards, and walkability to music venues and restaurants, it blends style with substance. Great for couples or solo travelers.
Address: 1316 South Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
For more info: sanjosehotel.com
For a more family-friendly option, check out Hyatt Regency Austin, located downtown on Lady Bird Lake with direct access to Zilker Park and the hike-and-bike trail.
Address: 208 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
For more info: hyatt.com
2. San Antonio – Luxury, History & River Views
Hotel Emma, located in the repurposed Pearl Brewery, is one of Texas’s most celebrated hotels. It offers plush rooms, a rich backstory, and walkable access to the Pearl District’s restaurants and shops.
Address: 136 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215
For more info: thehotelemma.com
For a more budget-conscious stay, consider Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk, set inside a historic bank building with rooftop pools and complimentary evening snacks.
Address: 105 S St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205
For more info: druryhotels.com
3. Hill Country – Cabins, B&Bs & Glamping
Hoffman Haus in Fredericksburg is a hidden gem tucked just off Main Street. Each cottage has its own charm, and the gourmet breakfast basket delivered to your door each morning is a beloved touch.
Address: 608 E Creek St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
For more info: hoffmanhaus.com
For a glamping experience, book a stay at Walden Retreats near Johnson City, where safari-style tents offer river views, wood-burning stoves, and upscale bathrooms.
Address: 1388 Gipson Rd, Johnson City, TX 78636
For more info: waldenretreats.com
4. West Texas – Unique Desert Escapes
El Cosmico in Marfa redefines what a hotel can be. Choose from teepees, trailers, yurts, or safari tents, all wrapped in desert mystique and minimalist comfort. Hammocks, communal kitchens, and stargazing make it unforgettable.
Address: 802 S Highland Ave, Marfa, TX 79843
For more info: elcosmico.com
Alternatively, stay at Hotel Paisano, a classic 1930s hotel where the cast of Giant (including James Dean) once stayed. It’s right in downtown Marfa.
Address: 207 N Highland Ave, Marfa, TX 79843
For more info: hotelpaisano.com
5. Big Bend – Lodges, Campgrounds & Ghost Town Inns
Chisos Mountains Lodge is the only in-park lodge in Big Bend and offers unmatched proximity to the park’s major trails. Ideal for hikers and families looking to stay inside the park boundaries.
Address: Basin Junction, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
For more info: chisosmountainslodge.com
For something more offbeat, try La Posada Milagro in Terlingua, a boutique inn built from historic ruins with desert views and walking distance to restaurants like the Starlight Theatre.
Address: 100 Milagro Way, Terlingua, TX 79852
For more info: laposadamilagro.com
6. Fort Davis – Historic Lodges & Mountain Seclusion
Indian Lodge inside Davis Mountains State Park offers unique adobe architecture, peaceful trails, and stargazer-worthy skies. It’s affordable, atmospheric, and perfect for nature lovers.
Address: TX-118 N, Fort Davis, TX 79734
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov
You can also stay in downtown Fort Davis at Harvard Hotel, a cozy, Western-style inn with porch swings and a local coffee shop next door.
Address: 208 N State St, Fort Davis, TX 79734
For more info: harvardhoteltx.com
Where to Eat Along the Route
Texas road trips are just as much about the food as the destinations. From legendary BBQ pits to German biergartens, taco trucks to fine-dining ranch houses, this 7-day itinerary includes iconic bites and local gems that add flavor to your journey.
1. Austin – BBQ, Brunch & Bold Flavors
Franklin Barbecue is a Texas institution, and if you’re willing to wait in line, you’ll be rewarded with melt-in-your-mouth brisket that regularly tops national “best BBQ” lists. Go early—doors open at 11 a.m., and they often sell out by 2.
Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
For more info: franklinbbq.com
For brunch, try Bouldin Creek Café, a vegetarian-friendly, funky spot beloved by locals for its tacos, tofu scrambles, and homemade pastries.
Address: 1900 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
For more info: bouldincreekcafe.com
2. San Antonio – Tex-Mex Icons & Riverwalk Dining
Mi Tierra Café y Panadería is more than a meal—it’s a cultural explosion of mariachi, papel picado, and colorful murals. Open 24 hours, it’s perfect for an early lunch or late-night flan.
Address: 218 Produce Row, San Antonio, TX 78207
For more info: mitierracafe.com
For dinner, head to Boudro’s on the Riverwalk, known for tableside guacamole, grilled Texas quail, and its candlelit patio on the water.
Address: 421 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205
For more info: boudros.com
3. Fredericksburg – German Cuisine & Texas Wine Pairings
The Ausländer serves hearty German fare like bratwurst, schnitzel, and potato pancakes, all paired with local beers and Hill Country wines. The interior feels like an old-world beer hall, but the patio is prime for people-watching.
Address: 323 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
For more info: theauslander.com
For dessert or a morning treat, stop at Old German Bakery & Restaurant for apple strudel and kolaches.
Address: 225 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
For more info: oldgermanbakeryandrestaurant.com
4. Marfa – Small Town, Big Flavor
Food Shark, a retro food truck serving Mediterranean-Texan fusion (like lamb gyros and falafel tacos), is a Marfa legend parked under the stars.
Address: 909 W San Antonio St, Marfa, TX 79843
For more info: facebook.com/foodsharkmarfa
For something more sit-down, Stellina offers upscale comfort food with locally sourced ingredients, perfect for date nights or slow evenings.
Address: 103 S Highland Ave, Marfa, TX 79843
For more info: stellinamarfa.com
5. Big Bend – Desert Dining with Character
Starlight Theatre in Terlingua is the must-do dining experience in the area, offering regional specialties and live music in a ghost town movie house. The chili and the prickly pear margaritas are local favorites.
Address: 631 Ivey Rd, Terlingua, TX 79852
For more info: thestarlighttheatre.com
For a morning bite, La Posada Milagro Espresso Bar serves strong coffee, breakfast tacos, and panoramic views of the desert hills.
Address: 100 Milagro Way, Terlingua, TX 79852
For more info: laposadamilagro.com
6. Fort Davis – Simple, Local & Satisfying
Blue Mountain Bistro, inside the Hotel Limpia, offers elegant yet approachable dishes like chicken-fried steak, trout almondine, and fresh pies.
Address: 101 Memorial Square, Fort Davis, TX 79734
For more info: thehotellimpia.com
Also worth a stop is Fort Davis Drug Store, a vintage soda fountain serving up root beer floats, burgers, and classic breakfasts with Texas charm.
Address: 113 State St, Fort Davis, TX 79734
For more info: fortdavisdrugstore.com
7. Driftwood – Final Feast at Salt Lick BBQ
Close out your trip with a communal-style meal at The Salt Lick BBQ, where brisket, ribs, sausage, and peach cobbler are served family-style under centuries-old oak trees. It’s BYOB and often packed, so come early or expect a wait—and don’t forget to bring your appetite.
Address: 18300 FM 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619
For more info: saltlickbbq.com
Essential Texas Road Trip Apps & Tools
To make your 7-day Texas adventure smoother, safer, and more fun, equip your phone with these tried-and-true apps. From route planning to finding gas and avoiding traffic, these tools can save time, money, and even headaches on the road.
1. Roadtrippers – Plan Your Route with Attractions
Roadtrippers is one of the most powerful apps for long-distance travelers. You can map your entire route and easily discover must-see stops along the way—including roadside attractions, historic sites, local eateries, and offbeat gems. It also estimates fuel costs and travel time, making it a road trip planner’s dream.
2. GasBuddy – Find the Cheapest Gas
With gas prices fluctuating across the state, GasBuddy helps you save money by locating the cheapest fuel nearby. The app is crowdsourced and frequently updated, ensuring you avoid overpaying—especially in remote areas like West Texas or Big Bend where stations can be sparse.
3. DriveTexas – Real-Time Road Conditions
A must for navigating unpredictable Texas highways, DriveTexas (by the Texas Department of Transportation) gives real-time updates on construction zones, closures, traffic delays, and weather-related hazards. It’s especially helpful during spring storms or when passing through areas prone to flash floods or icy conditions.
4. Hotels.com – Last-Minute Lodging Deals
Need to book a hotel last-minute in Marfa, Fort Davis, or San Antonio? Hotels.com lets you compare prices, read verified reviews, and book rooms directly. The app is perfect for travelers who want flexibility without sacrificing quality or location.
5. AllTrails – Trail Maps for Hikes
For hikes in Big Bend, Davis Mountains, or even urban trails like Mission Reach in San Antonio, AllTrails is your go-to. It offers detailed trail maps, difficulty ratings, user photos, and elevation stats. You can even download offline maps—a lifesaver when cell service drops in remote areas.
6. OpenTable – Reserve Restaurants in Advance
In cities like Austin, San Antonio, or Fredericksburg—especially on weekends—dinner reservations can fill up fast. Use OpenTable to secure a table at high-demand restaurants like Boudro’s, Josephine House, or Stellina, so you don’t have to wait or miss out.
7. iOverlander – For Campers and Van Lifers
Planning to camp through Big Bend or Terlingua? iOverlander is a community-based app listing campgrounds, boondocking spots, dump stations, and travel tips shared by fellow overlanders. It’s especially valuable in West Texas, where cell service is limited and options can be sparse.
Final Thoughts
A week may not be enough to see everything Texas has to offer, but this 7-day itinerary comes remarkably close. From live music in Austin to the haunting silence of Big Bend, from German bakeries in Fredericksburg to cosmic vistas in Fort Davis, this journey offers a perfectly balanced mix of natural wonder, cultural depth, and iconic roadside flavor.
Each region of Texas you’ve visited offers its own rhythm: Austin’s creative pulse, San Antonio’s layered history, Hill Country’s rustic charm, Marfa’s minimalist mystery, and Big Bend’s humbling wilderness. What ties them together is the open road—the spaces in between, the people you meet, the conversations had under wide skies or around BBQ smoke.
Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time explorer, this route was crafted to give you not just a tour, but an experience. And because Texas is ever-changing and endlessly vast, this is just the beginning. There’s always another bend in the road, another small-town diner, another state park trail just waiting to be added to your next itinerary.
So pack your memories, charge your camera, and keep that adventurous spirit alive—because in Texas, the journey never really ends.
