If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Austin, Texas, there are a plethora of day trips you can take to get out of town and enjoy some fresh air and relaxation. From small towns to nearby lakes, here are 8 of the best day trips from Austin.
- Austin Zoo
- Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
- Marble Falls
- San Antonio
- City Park
- Hamilton Pool Preserve
- Inks Lake State Park
- Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site
1. Austin Zoo
The Austin Zoo is a fun and educational day trip away from the city. Located just 20 minutes outside of Austin, this zoo is home to hundreds of animals from all around the globe. From exotic species like zebras, emus, and kangaroos, to beloved domestic animals like goats and cows, you can explore the unique and diverse animal life the zoo has to offer.
The zoo features a variety of interactive and educational exhibits, including a petting zoo, a reptile house, and a koi pond. You can get up close and personal with some of the animal inhabitants, and learn about the different species. The Austin Zoo also offers a variety of educational programs, from overnight camping trips to special events like birthday parties.
Whether you’re looking to catch a glimpse of exotic wildlife or to take part in educational activities, the Austin Zoo is a great destination for a day trip from Austin. With its wide variety of animals and activities, it’s the perfect way to spend a day in nature and learn more about the animal kingdom.
2. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is located just north of Austin, making it an ideal day trip destination. The main attraction of this park is the massive pink granite outcropping, which is estimated to be as old as 1.1 billion years. It’s the perfect place to take in the stunning Texas Hill Country views and get your heart rate up with some hiking and rock climbing. The summit of Enchanted Rock is open to the public, and is worth the steep climb for its stunning views of the surrounding area, from the wildflowers to the wildlife. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take the Summit Trail, which offers a more challenging climb and a stunning view of the surrounding hills.
For a more leisurely activity, you can head to Enchanted Rock’s Echo Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped canyon that is perfect for an afternoon of exploring. The Echo Canyon Nature Trail is an easy 1.5-mile loop that’s great for nature lovers, and the more experienced hikers can take the Moss Lake Trail for a greater challenge. With plenty of picnic areas, bathrooms, and a campground, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area has everything you need for a day of adventure and relaxation.
3. Marble Falls
Marble Falls is a picturesque town located just a short drive away from Austin, Texas. With plenty of shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities, it’s a great place for a day trip from Austin. The town of Marble Falls is nestled in the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country, and is home to a stunning lake and river that provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. From fishing and kayaking to swimming and hiking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
For those looking to explore the charming downtown, there are plenty of local shops and restaurants to explore. Browse the unique boutiques and enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the local cafes. Or, take a stroll along the banks of the lake and take in the picturesque views.
If you’re looking to make a weekend out of it, there are plenty of options for lodging. From cozy cabins to luxury hotels, Marble Falls has something for everyone. Plus, there are plenty of nearby attractions to explore, such as the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge and the nearby wineries.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway or a fun and adventurous day trip, Marble Falls has something to offer. With plenty of outdoor activities and a charming downtown area, it’s the perfect day trip from Austin.
4. San Antonio
San Antonio is the perfect day trip for those looking to experience a different flavor of Texas. Located just a few hours drive south of Austin, the city is home to the iconic Alamo and the historic River Walk. From the Alamo, you can take a walking tour to explore the other historic sights, such as the Spanish Governor’s Palace and the Mission San Jose.
If you’re looking for a shopping experience, the San Antonio River Walk is the perfect destination. Here, you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options to keep you busy all day. Be sure to take a boat tour along the river to get an up-close look at the historical sites and colorful architecture.
For a unique experience, visit the Japanese Tea Garden in the heart of the city. Established in the early 1900s, it’s a great place to take a stroll and admire the landscaped gardens, koi ponds, and bonsai trees. If you’re visiting in the spring, you’ll also be able to enjoy the cherry blossom trees in full bloom.
After a day of exploring, relax with a night out on the town. San Antonio is home to some of the most vibrant nightlife in the Lone Star State. From live music venues to cozy bars, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.
San Antonio is a great day trip from Austin, and it offers something for everyone. Pack your bags and hit the road to experience a taste of the Alamo City.
5. City Park
City Park is the ideal getaway for a day trip from Austin. Located about an hour outside of the city, you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while still being close enough for a day trip. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, hiking, and picnicking. You can also rent paddle boats and kayaks to explore the lake. For those wanting to stay on land, City Park has a 3.5 mile trail that circles the lake. The edge of the trail is lined with trees and native plants, so you can take in the beauty of the area while you stroll.
The park also has a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and fish, so you can watch the animals in their natural habitat. There is also a variety of picnic tables around the lake, so you can grab a bite to eat while taking in the views. You can also enjoy bird watching, fishing, and even geocaching if you’re feeling adventurous.
City Park is a great getaway for a day of relaxation and fun. Whether you’re looking for a day of swimming, hiking, or just relaxing and taking in the views, City Park is the perfect spot for an Austin day trip.
6. Hamilton Pool Preserve
Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the most beautiful and unique day trips from Austin, Texas. Located just 30 miles outside the city, it’s an excellent opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Austin and reconnect with nature.
The main attraction at Hamilton Pool Preserve is the stunning natural pool that was formed when an underground river collapsed thousands of years ago. It’s perfect for swimming, with crystal-clear water surrounded by beautiful limestone cliffs. There are also plenty of trails for hiking, with a variety of different terrains and plants.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a guided tour of the preserve to learn about its history and the unique ecological systems that make it so special. If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, you can find plenty of spots to lounge by the pool and enjoy the scenery.
No matter what you’re looking for, Hamilton Pool Preserve is a great option for a day trip from Austin. It’s a unique and beautiful spot to spend the day, and it’s a great way to get away from the city and experience the beauty of nature.
7. Inks Lake State Park
Inks Lake State Park is a great option for a day trip from Austin, Texas. Located in Burnet County, it’s about an hour drive away and offers plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. At the center of the park is the namesake Inks Lake, which is great for swimming, fishing, and sailing. The freshwater lake is surrounded by picturesque limestone cliffs that make it an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic or some peaceful contemplation.
The park has several miles of hiking trails, making it easy to explore the area. There are also plenty of wildlife and bird watching opportunities, so be sure to bring a camera and binoculars to capture the beauty of the park. There are facilities to rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats, and visitors can also enjoy fishing in the lake.
Inks Lake State Park is also known for its stunning sunsets – the perfect way to end a day of relaxation and exploration. So if you’re looking for a unique and beautiful day trip from Austin, be sure to visit Inks Lake State Park and enjoy some of the best outdoor activities Texas has to offer.
8. Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site
- Explore the life of LBJ Take a trip to Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site for a day of exploring the historic site and learning about the life and times of the former president. This state park, located outside of Johnson City, Texas, is a great spot for a day trip from Austin. At the historic site, visitors can tour the home and ranch of President Lyndon B. Johnson, which he called ‘the Texas White House’. The site also features a Visitor Center which includes exhibits about the 36th president and his wife Lady Bird, as well as a gift shop and a cafe. There are also opportunities for bird watching, picnicking, and fishing in the park, making it a great spot for a day of adventure.
- Explore the Lost Pines of Texas Bastrop State Park is located just outside of Austin and is a great spot for a day trip. The park is home to the Lost Pines of Texas, an area of pine forest which is over 100 miles away from the nearest pine forest. The park offers a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. There are also a number of historic sites to explore, including the ruins of the CCC-built cabins from the 1930s. Bastrop State Park is a great spot for a day of adventure and exploration.
- Relax and unwind at Inks Lake Inks Lake State Park is located just outside of Burnet, Texas and is a great spot for a day trip from Austin. The park offers a variety of activities, such as fishing, swimming, boating, and camping. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and turtles. The park is also home to a number of hiking trails, perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation. Inks Lake State Park is the perfect spot for a day of adventure and relaxation.
- Explore the geological wonder of Enchanted Rock Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is located outside of Fredericksburg, Texas and is a great spot for a day trip from Austin. The park is home to Enchanted Rock, an immense pink granite dome that rises 425 feet above ground and is one of the largest batholiths in the United States. The park offers a variety of activities, such as hiking, camping, rock climbing, and bird watching. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a great spot for a day of adventure and exploration.
