Austin, Texas is known for its incredible live music scene, diverse cuisine, and beautiful landscapes. There are plenty of scenic drives and road trips to explore the area and take in the sights. From the winding roads of the Hill Country to the historic neighborhoods of downtown Austin, this guide will help you plan your next adventure.
- The Lakes
- Downtown Austin
- San Antonio
- The Hill Country
- The Texas Hill Country Wineries
- The Balcones Escarpment
- Big Bend National Park
- The Texas Coast
1. The Lakes
The lakes of Austin are some of the most beautiful parts of the city. From Lake Travis to Lady Bird Lake, these stunning bodies of water are an integral part of the city’s culture. Whether you’re looking for a day of swimming, fishing, or boating, the lakes are great spots to relax and soak in the beauty of the area.
At Lake Travis, visitors can take in the stunning views from the Oasis Restaurant and Bar, located right on the lake. Here, you can watch the boats sail by, or you can even take a sunset cruise. For those looking for a more active adventure, the lake also offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, or paddle boarding.
Just down the road, Lady Bird Lake is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a morning jog along the waterfront. Along the banks, you’ll find plenty of trails and pathways to explore, from the popular Hike & Bike Trail to the lesser known Butler Hike & Bike Trail. There’s also plenty of opportunity to get out on the water, with kayak and paddle board rentals available.
Further west, Lake Buchanan is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and camping. With its clear blue waters, it’s the perfect place to spend a day or two relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
No matter which lake you choose, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore the lakes of Austin. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day of fishing or an active day of swimming and boating, the lakes of Austin are the perfect way to take in the beauty of the area.
2. Downtown Austin
Downtown Austin is the perfect place to explore the city and take in its sights. The Texas Capitol sits proudly in the heart of the city, surrounded by historical buildings and monuments. From here, you can take a leisurely stroll along the banks of Lady Bird Lake, or explore the emerging neighborhoods of East Austin. Here you’ll find a vibrant art scene, unique restaurants, and the ever-expanding nightlife.
The downtown area is also home to some of Austin’s most iconic attractions, such as the Congress Avenue Bridge, home to the world’s largest urban bat colony. Take a guided boat tour of the bridge at dusk and witness the incredible display of hundreds of bats flying out into the night sky – a truly unforgettable experience.
The downtown area also offers a wide array of cultural experiences, from the world-class museums and galleries to the historic theaters and live music venues. Whether you’re looking for a unique shopping experience or a night out on the town, downtown Austin has something for everyone.
For those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, the surrounding Hill Country offers some of the most stunning scenery in the state. There are plenty of small towns and villages to explore, with winding roads and lush landscape. Take a day trip and visit some of the wineries, or just relax and take in the views.
No matter how you choose to explore Austin, its downtown area is a must-see. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s culture or take a scenic road trip, downtown Austin offers something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today!
3. San Antonio
San Antonio is the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Austin. Just a short drive away, you can explore the incredible city of San Antonio and all it has to offer. The Alamo is one of the most iconic destinations in the city, and a must-see for any trip. Take a tour of the historic mission and learn about its rich history.
The San Antonio Riverwalk is another popular destination, with plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. Stroll along the winding paths and take in the beauty of the area. Stop for a bite to eat to sample some of the delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, or take a boat tour for a unique way to experience the city.
No trip to San Antonio would be complete without a visit to the San Antonio Zoo. This unique zoo features over 3,500 animals from across the globe, ranging from elephants to pandas and more. There are also a variety of attractions, such as a carousel and an aquarium, for visitors to enjoy.
San Antonio is filled with plenty of attractions, making it a great place to explore. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, San Antonio is the perfect destination to explore the unique culture and scenery of Texas.
4. The Hill Country
The Hill Country northwest of Austin is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the area. Rolling hills, winding roads, and stunning views of the Pedernales River await adventurers on a road trip through the Hill Country. Start your journey in the charming town of Fredericksburg, home to a unique blend of historic German architecture and modern Texas flair. Stop by the shops, galleries, and restaurants that line Main Street, and take in the unique atmosphere.
After exploring Fredericksburg, drive west to the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site. This park is home to the boyhood home of our 36th president and the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm. Here, visitors can take a step back in time and experience life on an early 20th-century German immigrant farm.
Heading further west, you’ll come across numerous scenic outlooks, where you can take in the Texas Hill Country’s rolling hills and wildflowers as far as the eye can see. If you’re looking for a more adventurous excursion, take a stop at Enchanted Rock, the largest pink granite monolith in the state. Here, visitors can hike, camp, and explore the area.
The Hill Country northwest of Austin is an incredible region, full of winding roads, beautiful views, and unique experiences. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely drive or an adventurous excursion, the Hill Country has something for everyone. So get ready to explore, and happy travels!
5. The Texas Hill Country Wineries
The Texas Hill Country is a must-see destination for any wine connoisseur. The area is home to some of the most prestigious wineries in the state, producing some of the highest quality wines in the world.
A visit to the Hill Country Wineries is an experience like no other. From the cozy vineyards of Fredericksburg to the rolling hills of Driftwood, each winery offers its own unique atmosphere and ambiance. Visitors can sample award-winning wines, learn about the winemaking process, and even take part in guided vineyard tours. And, with the Hill Country’s stunning natural scenery, it’s the perfect place to spend a day sipping wine and taking in the views.
For a truly unique experience, visitors can attend one of the many events hosted by the wineries throughout the year. From wine tastings and live music performances to farm-to-table dinners and outdoor movie screenings, the Hill Country Wineries offer a variety of special events and activities for all.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a fun weekend activity, or just a chance to experience the Hill Country’s legendary winemaking culture, the Texas Hill Country Wineries are sure to provide the perfect backdrop for your adventure. With its stunning landscapes, unique atmospheres, and award-winning wines, the Texas Hill Country is an ideal destination for any wine enthusiast.
6. The Balcones Escarpment
The Balcones Escarpment is one of the most picturesque spots in all of Central Texas. This geological formation runs along the western side of the Balcones Fault, from San Antonio to the outskirts of Austin, and is full of stunning vistas. The area is known for its rolling hills and valleys, lush landscapes, and sparkling creeks and streams.
The Balcones Escarpment offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor exploration. From hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views, to unique botanical gardens, this is a great place to take in the beauty of nature. The area is also home to some of the most iconic views in the state, including the “Enchanted Rock” and “Jacob’s Well”.
The Balcones Escarpment is a great place to spend a day or weekend exploring. Visitors can take a leisurely drive along the winding roads to take in the breathtaking scenery, or they can take a more adventurous route and go off-roading on one of the many trails in the area. There are plenty of activities for all ages and skill levels, such as kayaking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, the Balcones Escarpment is a great choice. With its stunning views, unique attractions, and abundant outdoor activities, it’s an ideal spot for those who love to explore and take in the beauty of nature. So why not take a drive and explore this beautiful part of Central Texas? You won’t regret it!
7. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is an incredible destination to explore in southwest Texas. Located on the Rio Grande, the park provides a stunning backdrop of rugged mountains and canyons. Visitors can explore the Chisos Mountains, with its sweeping views of the desert. The Rio Grande is ideal for canoeing and kayaking, with its fast-flowing water and spectacular scenery.
Big Bend is also home to diverse wildlife. From the secretive javelinas and coatis to the majestic golden eagles, visitors will find plenty of animals to spot. The park is also full of native plants, such as the prickly pear cactus and creosote bush.
One great way to experience Big Bend National Park is through a road trip. There are many scenic drives and lookouts throughout the park that provide spectacular views. Stop at the Panther Junction Visitor Center to learn more about the park and pick up a map. Then, take the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to explore the Santa Elena Canyon, or drive the Old Maverick Road to experience the Chihuahuan Desert.
Big Bend National Park is a great place to explore if you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip. With its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, you’ll be sure to see something new and exciting. So, pack your bags and head to Big Bend to create a unique experience that will last a lifetime!
8. The Texas Coast
The Texas Coast is a must-see for anyone visiting Austin, Texas. Just a short drive away, the Coast offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From Galveston to South Padre Island, the Texas Coast has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a relaxing day trip, Galveston is a great option. With its historic downtown, beautiful beaches, and popular Pleasure Pier, the island has plenty of activities to offer. For a slightly longer road trip, Port Aransas, Corpus Christi, and South Padre Island are all great options. These coastal towns are known for their unique restaurants, historic sites, and local attractions.
The Texas Coast is also a great spot for outdoor activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an adventurous excursion, there is something for everyone along the Coast. For those looking for a unique experience, a visit to Padre Island National Seashore is a must. This protected area is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and migratory birds.
The Texas Coast is an ideal spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Austin. With its stunning views, beautiful beaches, and wide range of activities, it’s no wonder the area is so popular with visitors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an adventure-filled excursion, the Texas Coast has something for everyone.
