Sometimes, the best adventures are just a short drive away. These Austin day trips offer unforgettable road trip stops that are less than two hours from the city — making them perfect for spontaneous getaways, relaxing escapes, or exciting day-long explorations. Whether you’re craving a dip in a spring-fed swimming hole, a stroll through historic towns, or a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country, this guide has you covered.
From wine country charm to riverside views and legendary BBQ, discover the top destinations that prove you don’t need to go far to feel far away. Pack light, grab your keys, and hit the road — your next favorite spot is closer than you think.
Why Austin Day Trips Are the Perfect Mini Getaway
Central Location Means Options in Every Direction
Located in the heart of Central Texas, Austin is surrounded by charming towns, scenic parks, and unique attractions in every direction. Head west for Hill Country views, south for river floats and BBQ, or north for historic squares and boutique shopping. With most destinations under two hours away, you can see a whole new side of Texas without the stress of long travel.
Ideal for Families, Couples, and Solo Travelers
Day trips from Austin are designed for everyone. Families will find swimming holes, museums, and wildlife parks. Couples can sip wine in Fredericksburg or enjoy small-town strolls in Wimberley. Solo travelers can recharge with a hike at Enchanted Rock or a peaceful walk through Bastrop’s pine forests. These destinations offer something for every travel style and pace.
Less Planning, More Exploring – No Overnight Needed
The beauty of an Austin day trip is how simple it is. No hotel bookings. No suitcase packing. Just pick a place, hop in the car, and start your day. It’s ideal for last-minute plans, budget-friendly outings, or weekend routines that need a refresh.
Best Day Trips From Austin (All Within 2 Hours)
1. Wimberley – Springs, Shopping & Small-Town Charm
Wimberley blends natural beauty with artistic flair, making it one of the most popular day trip destinations from Austin. Located just over an hour southwest of the city, Wimberley offers spring-fed swimming holes, rustic boutiques, local art galleries, and scenic Hill Country views. The Blue Hole Regional Park is a must-visit in warmer months, and the town’s Market Days (held monthly) bring together live music, vintage finds, and small-town hospitality.
Address: Wimberley Square, Wimberley, TX 78676
Hours: Most shops open 10 AM–6 PM; Blue Hole: 8 AM–sunset
Entry Fee: Free to explore the town; Blue Hole swim entry ~$12/adult (in season)
Famous For: Tree-lined swimming, artist galleries, monthly market days, and laid-back charm
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive early for parking near the Square and bring a change of clothes if you plan to swim or walk the creekside trails.
2. Fredericksburg – Wine, German Eats & Wildflowers
Known for its German roots and thriving wine scene, Fredericksburg is a cultural and culinary gem nestled in the Hill Country. Just under two hours west of Austin, the town offers award-winning wineries, historic architecture, charming bakeries, and beautiful wildflower fields in spring. Main Street is lined with tasting rooms, boutique shops, and museums like the National Museum of the Pacific War.
Address: Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Hours: Most businesses open 10 AM–6 PM; wineries may vary
Entry Fee: Free to explore; tastings ~$15–$25/person
Famous For: German cuisine, vineyards, peach season, bluebonnet fields, and Main Street shopping
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit mid-week to avoid winery crowds, and don’t miss a scenic drive along the Willow City Loop if traveling in spring.
3. San Marcos – River Floats & Outlet Shopping
San Marcos offers the perfect blend of outdoor fun and retail therapy. Just 45 minutes south of Austin, it’s home to the San Marcos River, which is ideal for tubing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. After the float, hit the San Marcos Premium Outlets — one of the largest in the U.S. — or explore the local art scene and historic downtown.
Address: 201 N CM Allen Pkwy, San Marcos, TX 78666 (River); 3939 I-35 S, San Marcos, TX 78666 (Outlets)
Hours: River access 6 AM–10 PM; Outlets open 10 AM–9 PM
Entry Fee: Free river access; tube rentals ~$15
Famous For: Tubing on the river, outlet deals, Texas State University campus, and vibrant murals
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring water shoes for the river and a large tote for your outlet finds. Early mornings and weekdays are best for both.
4. Lockhart – BBQ Capital of Texas
Just 35 miles southeast of Austin, Lockhart is a meat lover’s dream and a must-visit for any foodie road trip. Known as the official Barbecue Capital of Texas, this small town is home to legendary smokehouses like Kreuz Market, Black’s BBQ, and Smitty’s Market — each with its own loyal following. Beyond brisket, Lockhart offers a charming courthouse square, antique shops, and film history (many movies have been shot here).
Address: Downtown Lockhart, TX 78644
Hours: BBQ joints open from 10 AM (some closed Mondays)
Entry Fee: Free to explore; BBQ meals ~$12–$30
Famous For: Iconic BBQ pits, smoked meats, and Texas culinary heritage
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Try to sample two spots in one visit — go light at the first so you have room for round two!
5. Johnson City – Art, Nature & LBJ History
Located about 75 minutes west of Austin, Johnson City blends presidential history with Hill Country beauty. It’s home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, Pedernales Falls State Park, and an up-and-coming arts district with galleries and studios. It’s a peaceful day trip for travelers interested in Texas heritage, riverside trails, and local makers.
Address: 100 Ladybird Ln, Johnson City, TX 78636
Hours: LBJ site: 9 AM–5 PM; Pedernales Falls: 8 AM–5 PM
Entry Fee: LBJ Park is free; Pedernales Falls: $6/adult (kids free)
Famous For: Presidential history, river hikes, Hill Country art galleries
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring walking shoes and a picnic — the nature areas around Johnson City are great for a quiet lunch away from crowds.
6. Marble Falls – Lakeside Views & Bluebonnet Trails
An hour northwest of Austin, Marble Falls is ideal for scenic drives, lakeside relaxation, and springtime wildflower photos. Stop by Blue Bonnet Café for a slice of famous pie, stroll the historic downtown, or head to Inks Lake State Park for hiking and kayaking. In March and April, nearby fields explode with bluebonnets.
Address: 305 Main St, Marble Falls, TX 78654
Hours: Shops: 10 AM–5 PM; Parks: sunrise to sunset
Entry Fee: Free downtown; Inks Lake $6/person
Famous For: Bluebonnet blooms, pies, lake views, and peaceful small-town energy
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Arrive by mid-morning to walk Main Street, catch lunch by the lake, and enjoy afternoon nature time at the park.
7. Bastrop – Lost Pines & Historic Downtown
Only 45 minutes east of Austin, Bastrop is a hidden gem where history and nature meet. Stroll through the preserved 19th-century buildings of downtown, explore quirky antique shops, or paddle along the Colorado River. Just outside town, Bastrop State Park features unique “Lost Pines” forest trails and peaceful campgrounds — perfect for a relaxing outdoor escape.
Address: 1006 Main St, Bastrop, TX 78602
Hours: Downtown shops: 10 AM–6 PM; State Park: 6 AM–10 PM
Entry Fee: Free in town; Bastrop State Park: $5/adult
Famous For: Pine forests, vintage charm, kayaking, and peaceful trails
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Combine a walk through historic Bastrop with a short trail hike or a quiet river picnic in the park.
8. Georgetown – Blue Hole Park & Victorian Square
Just 35 minutes north of Austin, Georgetown is one of Texas’s most picturesque small towns. Its downtown square features Victorian-era architecture, boutique shopping, and cozy cafes. Just a short walk away, Blue Hole Park offers clear swimming water backed by limestone cliffs — ideal for both cooling off and snapping scenic photos.
Address: 101 E 7th St, Georgetown, TX 78626 (Square); 100 Blue Hole Park, Georgetown, TX 78626
Hours: 6 AM–10 PM (Blue Hole); downtown shops: 10 AM–6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Famous For: Charming square, walkable streets, and creekside swimming under stone cliffs
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pair your visit with lunch at a local bakery, then cool off at Blue Hole. Bring water shoes for creekside comfort.
9. Dripping Springs – Breweries, Wineries & Hamilton Pool
Nicknamed the “Gateway to the Hill Country,” Dripping Springs is only 45 minutes from Austin and offers natural beauty alongside craft beverages and laid-back vibes. The highlight is Hamilton Pool Preserve, a stunning natural grotto with a waterfall and emerald waters. The area also features top-notch breweries, distilleries, and farm-to-table restaurants.
Address: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Hours: Hamilton Pool: 9 AM–5:30 PM (reservation required)
Entry Fee: $12/vehicle + $8/person
Famous For: Natural grotto swimming, scenic vineyards, breweries with live music
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book Hamilton Pool in advance and plan lunch at a nearby winery or brewery like Family Business Beer Co. or Bell Springs Winery.
Where to Eat on Your Austin Day Trip
1. Lockhart – Legendary BBQ
No trip to Lockhart is complete without sinking your teeth into authentic Texas BBQ. Stop at Kreuz Market for smoky brisket and sausage with no sauce required, or head to Black’s BBQ, one of the oldest family-run barbecue joints in the state.
Tip: Go early to avoid the lunch rush. Many locals arrive by 11 AM for the freshest cuts.
2. Dripping Springs – Farm-to-Table Meets Craft Beer
Dripping Springs is a hotbed for local dining and craft beverages. For upscale bites, visit Tillie’s at Camp Lucy, or try Rolling in Thyme & Dough for relaxed outdoor seating and fresh baked goods. Pair your meal with a visit to Jester King Brewery or Treaty Oak Distilling for a full-day experience.
Tip: Many spots offer pet-friendly patios — perfect if you’re road tripping with your dog.
3. Fredericksburg – German Bistros & Hill Country Flavors
Along Main Street, you’ll find schnitzel, sausages, and streusels at places like Otto’s German Bistro and Der Lindenbaum. For wine-country elegance, book a table at Vaudeville, a restaurant and gallery experience all in one.
Tip: Make reservations if you’re going on weekends — Fredericksburg fills up quickly.
4. San Marcos – Riverside Bites & College Eats
Post-tubing, grab lunch at Ivar’s River Pub overlooking the San Marcos River or stop by The Root Cellar Café for fresh, local fare in a cozy basement setting.
Tip: Bring a change of clothes if you’ve been floating — many cafes are casual but still indoor dining.
5. Bastrop & Georgetown – Small Town, Big Flavor
In Bastrop, try Neighbor’s Kitchen & Yard on the river or Piney Creek Chophouse for steaks and wine. In Georgetown, Monument Café serves comfort food classics, while 600 Degrees Pizzeria is beloved for slices and craft brews.
Tip: Both towns have charming town squares — perfect for a meal followed by a stroll with ice cream or coffee.
What to Pack for a Texas Day Trip from Austin
Essentials for Comfort and Weather
Texas weather can shift quickly, especially in spring and summer, so it’s best to come prepared.
- Reusable water bottle or hydration pack to stay cool
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for sun protection
- Light layers in cooler seasons or early mornings
- Bug spray if you plan to hike or picnic
Outdoor Gear & Nature Stops
If your day trip includes parks, trails, or swimming holes, pack accordingly:
- Towel and swimsuit for Hamilton Pool, Blue Hole, or the San Marcos River
- Water shoes for rocky or slippery creek beds
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for trails
- Portable folding chair or blanket for scenic picnic spots
- Park pass or printed reservation confirmation for state parks and preserves
Tech & Travel Tools
Don’t forget these extras to stay connected, navigated, and photo-ready:
- Phone mount for your car (especially for GPS navigation)
- Power bank and phone charger
- Camera, tripod, or GoPro for high-quality photos
- Offline maps or saved Google Maps in case of poor reception
- Small cooler for snacks, drinks, or local food pickups
Optional Add-ons
Depending on the season and destination, these can add extra comfort and convenience:
- Umbrella or rain poncho in spring and early summer
- Notebook or travel journal for sketching, journaling, or keeping track of your favorite stops
- Books or games for relaxing under a shade tree or riverside break
- Dog supplies if you’re bringing your furry friend (leash, water bowl, waste bags)
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Freedom of Austin Day Trips
With so much to see within just a couple hours of the city, Austin day trips offer the perfect escape when you need fresh air, inspiration, or just a break from the usual routine. Whether you’re tubing a river in San Marcos, eating brisket in Lockhart, or sipping wine in Fredericksburg, each destination offers its own flavor, pace, and charm.
Best of all? There’s no need to pack heavy, spend the night, or overplan. These low-stress, high-reward road trips prove that adventure is always within reach. So next weekend, skip the airport and hit the open Texas road instead — your next unforgettable memory might just be a few exits away.
