Texas is big, bold, and perfectly positioned for easy escapes. Because major hubs like Austin, Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio connect by fast highways and short flights, you can trade city routines for beaches, mountains, desert skies, or historic neighborhoods in just a few hours. In this guide to the best weekend getaways from Texas, you’ll find quick ideas for relaxation, outdoor adventure, and culture—without needing a long vacation.
You’ll discover short trips near Texas, plus in-state favorites that feel wonderfully far away. Whether you want wine tasting, hiking, live music, or spa time, we’ve curated the best weekend destinations near Texas and explained how to get there, what to do, and where to stay.
Why Plan a Weekend Getaway from Texas?
Short getaways reset your routine without the logistics of a full week off. In 2–3 days, you can unwind, try a new restaurant, catch a show, or hike a trail—then return refreshed. From Texas, many great spots sit within a 2–6 hour drive; others are a quick 1–1.5 hour flight. That means less time traveling, more time enjoying.
Weekend trips also help you sample new destinations before planning longer vacations. You can chase the best season—wildflowers in spring, beaches in early fall, desert stargazing in winter—while keeping costs and planning simple.
Why should I plan a weekend trip from Texas? Because you can maximize variety with minimal effort. With smart timing—leave Friday afternoon, return Sunday evening—you’ll fit in a satisfying dose of scenery, food, and fun without draining vacation days.
Top Weekend Getaways from Texas
Fredericksburg, Texas — Hill Country Wine and Wildflowers
• Distance/Travel Time: From Austin (1.5–2 hours by car), San Antonio (1–1.5 hours), Houston (4 hours), Dallas–Fort Worth (4–4.5 hours). • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Texas to Fredericksburg blends small-town charm, German heritage, and a booming wine scene along Highway 290. Rolling vineyards, peach orchards, and bluebonnet-lined roads make the area photogenic, while tasting rooms, live music patios, and farm-to-table dining keep the vibe lively yet laid back. • Top Things to Do:
- Taste along Wine Road 290 (book a driver or join a shuttle tour).
- Hike Enchanted Rock at sunrise for sweeping pink-granite views.
- Browse Main Street boutiques, bakeries, and biergartens.
- Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War for thoughtful exhibits.
- Book a wildflower or peach-picking outing in season. • Where to Stay: Choose a boutique inn on or near Main Street for walkability; consider a countryside B&B, vineyard cottage, or modern farmhouse for quiet nights. Book early on reputable platforms if traveling during spring bloom or holiday markets. • Best Time to Visit: March–May for wildflowers and mild temps; September–November for harvest season and crisp evenings. Summers run hot; plan midday winery visits and morning hikes.
Optimized phrase: A weekend getaway from Texas to Fredericksburg offers wineries, hikes, and charming stays that feel worlds away—yet close enough for two nights.
Big Bend National Park, Texas — Epic Desert Skies and River Canyons
• Distance/Travel Time: Driving from Austin (7–8 hours), San Antonio (6–7 hours), Dallas–Fort Worth (8–9 hours), Houston (9–10 hours). Fly to Midland/Odessa or El Paso, then drive 3–4 hours to the park. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Texas to Big Bend delivers raw desert solitude, star-filled skies, and dramatic geology. The Rio Grande carves towering canyons, while the Chisos Mountains rise above cactus-studded basins. It’s one of the nation’s best dark-sky parks for Milky Way viewing. • Top Things to Do:
- Hike Santa Elena Canyon or the Lost Mine Trail for big views.
- Soak in the historic Hot Springs near the river (check water levels).
- Drive the Ross Maxwell Scenic Road at golden hour.
- Stargaze from Terlingua or the Chisos Basin amphitheater.
- Paddle a guided canoe trip if conditions allow. • Where to Stay: Inside the park, the Chisos Mountains Lodge is the only lodging. Nearby, choose Terlingua casitas, desert glamping, or simple motels in Study Butte. Reserve months ahead in peak season. Consider the America the Beautiful pass for entry savings if you visit multiple parks. • Best Time to Visit: October–April for cooler weather (daytime 50s–70s°F, chilly nights). Summer gets very hot; plan early hikes and bring plenty of water.
Optimized phrase: A weekend getaway from Texas to Big Bend pairs rugged hikes with world-class stargazing and quiet desert nights.
Port Aransas & Mustang Island, Texas — Easygoing Gulf Coast Beach Time
• Distance/Travel Time: From San Antonio (2.5–3 hours), Austin (3.5 hours), Houston (3.5–4 hours), Dallas–Fort Worth (6–6.5 hours). • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Texas to Port Aransas serves relaxed beaches, coastal wildlife, and fresh Gulf seafood. Mustang Island’s wide, drive-on beaches make family logistics simple, while dolphin cruises, fishing charters, and waterfront patios keep everyone entertained. • Top Things to Do:
- Walk or bike the Port Aransas Nature Preserve for birdwatching.
- Book a dolphin-watching cruise in the ship channel.
- Cast a line from Horace Caldwell Pier or join a bay charter.
- Beach-hop from Mustang Island State Park to Padre Island National Seashore.
- Eat shrimp po’boys and oysters at local seafood shacks. • Where to Stay: Choose beach condos, pastel cottages, or budget motels near downtown Port A. For quieter stays, look at Mustang Island rentals. Book ahead for spring break and summer; consider refundable rates during hurricane season. • Best Time to Visit: April–early June and September–October bring warm water, lighter crowds, and temps in the 70s–80s°F. Summer is busy and hot; winter can be breezy but pleasant.
Optimized phrase: A weekend getaway from Texas to Port Aransas means soft sand, dolphins, and sunset dinners just a few hours from home.
Marfa, Texas — Art, Stars, and Minimalist Desert Vibes
• Distance/Travel Time: Drive from Austin (6.5–7 hours), San Antonio (6–7 hours), Dallas–Fort Worth (8–9 hours), El Paso (3 hours). • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Texas to Marfa blends contemporary art with West Texas mystique. You’ll find world-renowned installations, minimalist galleries, and cinematic desert light. Evenings invite stargazing and the enigmatic Marfa Lights, while mornings feel slow and creative over coffee and pastries. • Top Things to Do:
- Tour the Chinati Foundation’s large-scale installations (book in advance).
- Photograph the Prada Marfa art piece near Valentine.
- Stargaze at the Marfa Lights Viewing Area or nearby state parks.
- Browse indie shops and sip natural wine at laid-back bars.
- Day-trip to Fort Davis or Balmorhea State Park for high desert views and spring-fed swimming. • Where to Stay: Pick a cool boutique hotel, vintage trailer park, desert casita, or artist-run guesthouse. Availability is limited on weekends; reserve early and consider midweek if you can. • Best Time to Visit: October–April for crisp air and clear skies; spring and fall feel ideal. Summers bring heat midday but spectacular sunsets.
Optimized phrase: A weekend getaway from Texas to Marfa offers art-forward experiences, quiet streets, and unforgettable stars.
Santa Fe, New Mexico — Adobe Charm and Mountain Air
• Distance/Travel Time: Fly into Albuquerque (ABQ) or Santa Fe (SAF). Flights from Dallas–Fort Worth, Austin, and Houston often run 1.5–2 hours (sometimes with a connection). From ABQ, drive or shuttle about 1 hour to Santa Fe; driving from Dallas can take 10–11 hours. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Texas to Santa Fe layers Pueblo-style architecture, rich art history, and flavorful Northern New Mexican cuisine with high-desert scenery. Museums anchor the Plaza, while nearby trails offer pine-scented hikes and cool mountain breezes. • Top Things to Do:
- Browse Canyon Road’s galleries and sculpture gardens.
- Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the Plaza’s historic sites.
- Taste green and red chile at local institutions—try a combo plate “Christmas style.”
- Hike in Hyde Memorial State Park or the Dale Ball Trails.
- Relax at a traditional spa or hot springs resort. • Where to Stay: Choose a boutique adobe inn near the Plaza, a casita with a kiva fireplace, or a spa resort in the foothills. Book early for summer arts festivals and autumn foliage; shoulder seasons offer value. • Best Time to Visit: May–June and September–October for pleasant highs (70s–80s°F) and crisp nights. Winter brings skiing at nearby Santa Fe and Taos.
Optimized phrase: A weekend getaway from Texas to Santa Fe delivers art, chile-forward cuisine, and mountain walking paths in a compact, strollable city.
Broken Bow & Beavers Bend, Oklahoma — Cabin Life and Clear Lakes
• Distance/Travel Time: From Dallas–Fort Worth (3–3.5 hours), Austin (5.5–6 hours), Houston (5–5.5 hours), Oklahoma City (3.5 hours). • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Texas to Broken Bow swaps city noise for pine forests, trout streams, and cozy cabin retreats with fire pits and hot tubs. Beavers Bend State Park loops around the Mountain Fork River and Broken Bow Lake, creating a natural playground for paddling, hiking, and family time. • Top Things to Do:
- Paddle a kayak or SUP on Broken Bow Lake’s turquoise coves.
- Hike the Beaver Lodge Nature Trail and Friends Trail Loop.
- Fish for trout in the Lower Mountain Fork River (guides available).
- Book a zipline, horseback ride, or scenic train ride.
- Sample local breweries, wineries, and coffee shops in Hochatown. • Where to Stay: Cabins range from romantic tiny homes to large luxury lodges with game rooms. Reserve popular weekends far in advance; consider pet-friendly listings if traveling with a dog. • Best Time to Visit: March–May and September–November for mild days and cool nights. Summer lake days shine; winter brings quiet cabins and starry skies.
Optimized phrase: A weekend getaway from Texas to Broken Bow means s’mores by the fire, forest hikes, and lake time without long drives.
Hot Springs, Arkansas — Bathhouses and Ouachita Trails
• Distance/Travel Time: From Dallas–Fort Worth (4.5–5.5 hours), Austin (7–7.5 hours), Houston (6.5–7 hours). Fly to Little Rock (LIT), then drive about 1 hour. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Texas to Hot Springs mixes relaxation and outdoor fun. Historic Bathhouse Row offers traditional thermal soaks and modern spa treatments, while nearby Hot Springs National Park and the Ouachita Mountains serve up leafy hikes and scenic overlooks. • Top Things to Do:
- Soak at a bathhouse or book a spa session on Bathhouse Row.
- Hike the Hot Springs Mountain Tower area for panoramic views.
- Walk Central Avenue’s galleries, pie shops, and retro neon signs.
- Boat or paddle on Lake Hamilton or Lake Ouachita.
- Explore the Garvan Woodland Gardens’ seasonal displays. • Where to Stay: Choose a vintage hotel near Bathhouse Row for walking access, a lakeside resort for water views, or a cozy cabin in the hills. Book ahead for spring and fall weekends. • Best Time to Visit: March–May and September–November bring comfortable highs (60s–80s°F). Winter is spa-perfect and calm; summer is warm but great for lake activities.
Optimized phrase: A weekend getaway from Texas to Hot Springs pairs classic bathhouse culture with wooded trails and lake sunsets.
New Orleans, Louisiana — Jazz, Food, and Festival Energy
• Distance/Travel Time: Drive from Houston (5.5–6 hours), Austin (7–7.5 hours), Dallas–Fort Worth (7–8 hours). Flights from Texas hubs take about 1–1.5 hours. • Why Visit: A weekend getaway from Texas to New Orleans serves soulful music, singular cuisine, and centuries-old architecture. You can wander oak-shaded streets, listen to live brass bands, and feast on beignets, gumbo, and chargrilled oysters—all in a compact, walkable core. • Top Things to Do:
- Stroll the French Quarter, then listen to live jazz on Frenchmen Street.
- Tour the Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery (check hours/permits).
- Eat your way through po’boys, crawfish (in season), and Creole classics.
- Ride the St. Charles streetcar and explore Magazine Street boutiques.
- Visit the National WWII Museum for world-class exhibits. • Where to Stay: Pick a boutique hotel in the French Quarter or Central Business District for walkability, or a quieter B&B in the Garden District. Book early for festivals (Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, Voodoo). Consider flexible rates during hurricane season. • Best Time to Visit: February–May and October–November offer mild temps (60s–80s°F) and vibrant events. Summer is hot and humid but budget-friendly.
Optimized phrase: A weekend getaway from Texas to New Orleans brings nonstop flavor, music, and history—ideal for a quick cultural recharge.
Travel Tips for Weekend Trips from Texas
- Plan around drive vs. flight time: If you’ll spend more than 40% of the trip traveling, choose a closer spot. Nonstop flights save hours.
- Leave early: Hit the road Friday by noon or depart at dawn Saturday to avoid traffic and gain an extra activity block.
- Book smart: Reserve high-demand items first—lodging, park permits, winery tours, and top restaurants. Use trusted platforms for flexible rates and price alerts.
- Build a “two plus two” itinerary: Two anchor plans (like a hike and a dinner reservation) plus two floaters (a museum or a scenic drive). You’ll stay flexible without feeling rushed.
- Pack light: Use a weekender bag, pack layers, and bring a compact rain shell. Add a portable charger, reusable water bottle, and small first-aid kit.
- Think passes: Consider a Texas State Parks Pass or the America the Beautiful pass if you’ll visit multiple parks this year.
- What should I pack for a weekend trip from Texas?
- Clothing: 2 outfits, one extra layer, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear if relevant.
- Essentials: ID, insurance cards, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, bug spray for lakes and forests.
- Tech/gear: Phone charger, car mount, offline maps, headlamp for night hikes or beach walks.
- Nice-to-haves: Travel towel, compact cooler for road snacks, and a small daypack.
Best Time to Plan Weekend Getaways from Texas
Texas and its neighbors offer year-round options, but timing impacts comfort and cost.
- Spring (March–May): Hill Country blooms, comfortable 60–80°F days, and cool evenings. Great for Fredericksburg, Broken Bow, and Hot Springs.
- Summer (June–August): Gulf beaches shine (water temps 80–85°F), but expect 85–95°F highs and humidity. Plan early activities and midday breaks. Mountain destinations near Santa Fe feel cooler (70s–80s°F).
- Fall (September–November): Often the sweet spot—warm days, low humidity, and fewer crowds. Ideal for wineries, beaches, and city breaks like New Orleans.
- Winter (December–February): Big Bend, Marfa, and Santa Fe deliver crisp air, clear skies, and stellar stargazing; daytime highs often range 50–65°F with colder nights. Beaches feel quiet and affordable.
For storms: The Gulf Coast sees peak tropical activity August–October; book flexible rates. Desert nights can drop below freezing in winter—pack layers.
Budget and Planning Advice
- Typical 2–3 day budget (per person):
- Lodging: $120–$300 per night for midrange hotels or cabins; boutique and festival weekends run higher.
- Transport: Road trips usually $50–$120 in gas; flights from Texas hubs often $150–$350 round trip when booked early.
- Food: $35–$70 per day for casual dining; add more for tasting menus or winery tours.
- Activities: Many hikes and beaches are free; national park entry around $30 per vehicle; museum tickets $10–$35.
- Smart tools: Use Google Maps or Roadtrippers for route planning; Hopper or Skyscanner for fare alerts; HotelTonight for last-minute deals; AllTrails for hikes; OpenTable or Resy for dining; and your state DOT road app (like Drive Texas) for live traffic.
- Affordability tips: Travel off-peak, choose cabins with kitchens, and bundle activities. For wine regions, join shared shuttles instead of private drivers.
How much does a weekend trip from Texas cost? Most travelers spend about $300–$700 per person for a driving weekend and $500–$1,000 per person for a fly-and-stay weekend, depending on lodging style, dining, and activities. Booking early, traveling in shoulder seasons, and using flexible rates help you lock in value.
By starting in Texas, you can reach vineyards, beaches, deserts, mountains, and music-filled streets with minimal fuss. Pick a destination that matches your mood, pack light, and make two or three can’t-miss plans. Then let the rest unfold—because the best weekend getaways from Texas leave space for serendipity.
Frequently Asked Questions
From Dallas–Fort Worth (3–5 hours): Broken Bow/Beavers Bend, OK (3–3.5 hrs); Hot Springs, AR (4.5–5.5 hrs); Fredericksburg, TX (4–4.5 hrs).
From Houston (3–5 hours): Port Aransas & Mustang Island (3.5–4 hrs); Fredericksburg (4 hrs). New Orleans runs 5.5–6 hours by car, but nonstop flights take about 1–1.5 hours.
From Austin (3–5 hours): Fredericksburg (1.5–2 hrs); Port Aransas/Mustang Island (3.5 hrs).
From San Antonio (3–5 hours): Fredericksburg (1–1.5 hrs); Port Aransas/Mustang Island (2.5–3 hrs). Tip: If a drive pushes beyond five hours (like Marfa or Big Bend), consider a quick flight to a nearby airport (El Paso, Midland/Odessa, or New Orleans) to keep your weekend relaxing.
You can do Big Bend in a weekend if you plan tightly. However, the drive is long (6–10 hours from major Texas cities). To save time, fly to El Paso or Midland/Odessa, then drive 3–4 hours to the park. For a 2-night plan, focus on the Chisos Basin (Lost Mine Trail), Santa Elena Canyon, and the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. Base yourself in Terlingua or at Chisos Mountains Lodge, start hikes early, and book lodging months in advance. If you want backcountry roads or river trips, add a day.
Visit in spring (March–May) for bluebonnets and mild weather, or in fall (September–November) for grape harvest, patio season, and crisp evenings. Weekdays feel calmer along Wine Road 290, while weekends book fast. For peaches, late May through July is prime around Gillespie County farm stands. Tastings often end by 4–5 p.m., so plan earlier appointments and a designated driver or a shuttle.
Port Aransas and Mustang Island are the easiest choices. From San Antonio, expect 2.5–3 hours; from Austin, about 3.5 hours. You’ll get wide, drive-on beaches, dolphin cruises in the ship channel, and easy access to Mustang Island State Park and Padre Island National Seashore for quieter stretches. For calm, kid-friendly water, Rockport Beach (about 3 hours from San Antonio) offers gentle waves and amenities. Summer brings warm water (often 80–85°F); early fall stays warm with lighter crowds.
Yes—especially for cabins, lake time, and forest hikes. Broken Bow sits about 3–3.5 hours from DFW and packs in clear coves for kayaking and SUP, trout fishing on the Lower Mountain Fork River, and short trails in Beavers Bend State Park. Hochatown has breweries, wineries, and coffee spots, and many cabins come with hot tubs and fire pits. Aim for spring or fall for mild weather; book early for popular weekends.
Two to three days is perfect for a first-timer. Fly from Texas hubs in 1–1.5 hours and base in the French Quarter or Central Business District for walkability to the Quarter, the streetcar, and the National WWII Museum. For a quieter vibe with easy transit, consider the Garden District. With limited time, focus on the French Quarter, Frenchmen Street for live music, a Garden District stroll, and a signature meal (beignets, gumbo, and chargrilled oysters are classics).
On weekends, yes—reserve tastings at popular wineries along Highway 290, especially during spring wildflower season and fall harvest. Many tasting rooms accept walk-ins but fill by midday. If you plan to visit several wineries, book a shuttle or guided tour so you don’t drive. Note that last seatings often happen around 4–5 p.m., and many wineries close by early evening.
You don’t need 4×4 for the park’s main sights. Paved routes to Chisos Basin, Panther Junction, and Santa Elena Canyon work for standard vehicles. However, several backcountry and primitive roads—like Old Ore Road, Black Gap Road, or parts of River Road—require high clearance and sometimes true 4×4. Conditions change with weather, so check with rangers before heading out, carry water, and don’t attempt remote roads late in the day.
Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30, with the highest risk from August to October. If you’re booking Port Aransas, Mustang Island, or the wider Corpus Christi area then, choose refundable rates, consider travel insurance that covers named storms, and watch NOAA forecasts. Also, pack a light rain shell and have a Plan B inland (San Antonio or the Hill Country) if a system develops.
Most driving weekends run about $300–$700 per person for 2–3 days. That usually covers a midrange hotel or cabin ($120–$300 per night), gas ($50–$120 round trip), food ($35–$70 per day), and a few paid activities (like a winery tasting or a museum ticket). Fly-and-stay weekends—like New Orleans or Santa Fe—often total $500–$1,000 per person with early airfares ($150–$350 round trip from Texas hubs) and two nights in a boutique hotel. To save, travel in shoulder seasons, book early, and use flexible rates.
Susan CalliesSusan Callies is a travel writer at Travleon.com, where she shares guides, itineraries, and hidden gems from around the world. When she’s not writing about new destinations, Susan enjoys playing the violin, ice skating during the winter months, and exploring local food scenes wherever she travels. She's also passionate about photography, journaling her adventures, and visiting art museums. Susan believes that the best stories are found off the beaten path — and she’s always chasing the next one.