Austin may be known for its live music and quirky charm, but it’s also the gateway to some of the best wineries and craft breweries in Texas. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a hop-loving beer connoisseur, the rolling hills and vibrant towns outside the city offer the perfect backdrop for a flavor-packed road trip.
This guide highlights the top wine and beer trails near Austin—each one carefully curated for great taste, beautiful views, and memorable sips. From sun-drenched vineyards to cozy taprooms and barrel-lined tasting rooms, these stops are ideal for couples, friends, and anyone chasing good vibes and great pours.
Overview of Wine & Beer Road Trips Near Austin
Central Texas is home to an ever-growing scene of vineyards and breweries that combine artisanal flavors with scenic Hill Country backdrops. Thanks to the unique climate and soil, the region produces award-winning varietals—while Austin’s craft beer culture fuels some of the most creative breweries in the state.
Just an hour or two from downtown Austin, you can discover charming small towns like Dripping Springs, Johnson City, and Fredericksburg. Each has carved out its place on the map for wine and beer lovers with curated tasting rooms, live music patios, and epicurean pairings that turn any weekend into an unforgettable experience.
Top Wine and Beer Trail Destinations Near Austin
1. Dripping Springs Wine & Spirits Trail
This Hill Country gem is often called the “Gateway to the Texas Wine Trail.” With a mix of family-run wineries, distilleries, and breweries, Dripping Springs is ideal for a full day of tastings.
Address: Multiple stops along US-290 W and RR-12, Dripping Springs, TX
Hours: Varies by location, generally 11 AM – 6 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$25 per tasting
Famous For: Scenic tastings and variety of wine, beer, and spirits
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Start at Bell Springs Winery for wine, then hit Treaty Oak Distillery for spirits and beer—both offer live music on weekends.
2. Johnson City Wine Trail
Located just an hour west of Austin, Johnson City has become a rising star in the Texas wine scene. It offers a more relaxed, less crowded experience compared to its neighbors—with plenty of bold reds and dry whites to sample.
Address: Clustered around US-290 W, Johnson City, TX
Hours: Most tasting rooms open daily, 11 AM – 5 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$20 per tasting
Famous For: Dry Texas reds and boutique wine makers
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Don’t miss 290 Wine Castle for a medieval-themed tasting experience complete with castle views and port-style wines.
3. Fredericksburg Wine Road 290
The crown jewel of Texas wine country, Fredericksburg’s 290 Wine Trail features more than 50 wineries, making it one of the largest concentrations of tasting rooms in the country. It’s a wine lover’s paradise.
Address: US-290 E between Fredericksburg and Johnson City, TX
Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 6 PM
Approx Cost: $20–$40 for tastings at multiple stops
Famous For: Texas High Plains varietals and stunning vineyard estates
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Use a shuttle or guided tour—sampling from multiple wineries is best enjoyed safely and stress-free.
4. Blanco Beer Trail
Home to Real Ale Brewing Company, Blanco’s beer trail is small but mighty. Real Ale is a Texas craft beer institution with tours, tastings, and a relaxing hilltop taproom.
Address: 231 San Saba Ct, Blanco, TX 78606
Hours: Wed–Sun, 12 PM – 8 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$15 per flight
Famous For: Devil’s Backbone Tripel and Fireman’s #4 Blonde Ale
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a cooler—many beers are only available on-site and worth bringing home.
5. Spicewood Wine Trail
Spicewood offers scenic vineyard drives and small-batch producers known for Muscat, Tempranillo, and Viognier wines. The tastings are unpretentious and the views are stunning.
Address: Off TX-71 in Spicewood, TX
Hours: Varies; most open Fri–Sun
Approx Cost: $15–$25 per tasting
Famous For: Hilltop vineyards and unique blends
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a blanket—several wineries allow picnics overlooking the vines.
6. Hye Wine & Spirits Trail
Nestled between Johnson City and Fredericksburg, Hye is home to standout spots like Hye Meadow Winery and Garrison Brothers Distillery. The vibe is relaxed and distinctly Texan.
Address: US-290 W, Hye, TX 78635
Hours: Most open daily, 11 AM – 6 PM
Approx Cost: $15–$20 per tasting
Famous For: High-end wines and handcrafted bourbon
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Pair a tasting at William Chris Vineyards with a food truck lunch—it’s one of the most scenic winery patios in Texas.
7. Marble Falls Beer & Wine Loop
Marble Falls offers a mix of wineries, breweries, and cideries nestled in rolling hills just over an hour from Austin. It’s a lesser-known but incredibly rewarding trail.
Address: FM 1431 and FM 2147 in Marble Falls, TX
Hours: Varies; generally 12 PM – 7 PM
Approx Cost: $12–$25
Famous For: Creative craft brews and low-key vineyard vibes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Flat Creek Estate is a must for pizza and wine pairings on their open-air patio.
Best Food Spots Along the Trail
1. Hays City Store – Driftwood
This rustic roadhouse is loved for its scratch-made comfort food, local beer list, and shaded oak tree patio—perfect after a day of tastings.
Address: 8989 FM 150 W, Driftwood, TX 78619
Hours: Mon–Fri 11 AM – 9 PM, Sat–Sun 10 AM – 10 PM
Approx Cost: $12–$25
Famous For: Chicken-fried steak and house cocktails
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Check their live music calendar—weekends often feature local country artists.
2. Otto’s German Bistro – Fredericksburg
A modern twist on German cuisine with a locally sourced, seasonal menu. Great for foodies looking for refined flavors on the Wine Road 290.
Address: 316 E Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Hours: Wed–Sun, 5 PM – 9 PM
Approx Cost: $18–$35
Famous For: Duck schnitzel, wurst boards, and fine wine pairings
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Make a reservation in advance—it’s small, intimate, and often packed.
3. Thyme & Dough – Dripping Springs
This garden café and bakery is a hidden gem for breakfast or brunch before hitting the wineries. Their pastries and sandwiches are just as beautiful as they are delicious.
Address: 398 W Mercer St, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Hours: Tue–Sat, 8 AM – 3 PM
Approx Cost: $10–$18
Famous For: Rustic baked goods and fresh seasonal dishes
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Grab a picnic to-go for your next winery stop.
Where to Stay Along the Trail
1. Camp Lucy – Dripping Springs
A luxury Hill Country retreat with charming cottages and sweeping views. Perfect for couples looking to unwind after a long tasting day.
Address: 3509 Creek Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Approx Cost: $250–$400
Famous For: Luxury cabins and event-worthy scenery
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask for a vineyard-view cottage—you won’t regret it.
2. Barons CreekSide – Fredericksburg
This Swiss-inspired cabin resort blends rustic comfort with a touch of European charm. It’s located minutes from Main Street and dozens of tasting rooms.
Address: 316 Goehmann Ln, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Approx Cost: $180–$300
Famous For: Hand-built log cabins and private vineyard
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book mid-week for better rates and fewer crowds.
3. Blanco Riverside Cottages
Affordable, clean, and cozy, these cottages sit right along the Blanco River and are walking distance to Real Ale Brewing Company.
Address: 20 Main St, Blanco, TX 78606
Approx Cost: $100–$150
Famous For: Peaceful riverside location
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a chair and enjoy a sunset drink by the river.
Packing Tips for a Wine & Beer Trail Road Trip
- Insulated wine tote or cooler
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Lightweight picnic blanket
- Snacks or charcuterie
- Portable phone charger
- Printed map or trail brochure
- Breath mints (trust us)
- Designated driver or ride service plan
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice
- Spring and fall offer the best weather and event lineups
- Call ahead—some tasting rooms require reservations
- Most places close early (by 6 PM), so start your day early
- Join wine clubs for discounts and private tastings
- Many towns host wine festivals and beer crawls—check local calendars
- Weekdays = smaller crowds and personalized service
- Pace yourself—split tastings or sip slowly
- Take notes on your favorites to buy later
- Uber and Lyft may not be available—use a local tour or shuttle
- Check for live music at wineries and breweries—it adds to the experience
Final Conclusion
Whether you’re a fan of bold reds, crisp whites, or inventive lagers, a wine and beer trail road trip near Austin is one of the most flavorful adventures you can take. It’s not just about the drinks—it’s about discovering the people, places, and passions behind every pour.
So grab your tasting glass, roll down the windows, and follow the road where flavor leads. Texas Hill Country is waiting—with a bottle, a view, and a story you’ll want to relive again and again.
