Texas is such an amazing state. From the big cities to the charming small towns, Texas has something for everyone! I guess that’s the reason Texas consistently makes the list of top travel destinations in the United States. Of course, that means there is also an abundance of weekend getaways in Texas as well!
We have called Texas home all of our lives. We were born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, and still call it home today, so we know a thing or two about the best weekend getaways in the Lone Star State!
There is so much variety available when planning getaways in Texas. Texas boasts great beaches, a fabulous wine country, national and state parks, and many locations that are great for romantic weekend getaways.
Honestly, it doesn’t matter what you are looking to do on your weekend getaway, Texas has you covered.
We have used our personal experience planning getaways in Texas to make this list for you, so you can assure that you are in good hands.
It doesn’t matter if you are visiting from out of state, or if you are a Texas local, we have you covered. If you are looking for a Texas weekend getaway, then you are in the right place!
These are some of the best places to visit in Texas!
So many of these make great Texas road trips also, just add a few days onto your weekend!
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City Getaways in Texas
If your ideas of weekend getaways include hanging out in a city where you have great dining, fabulous hotels, and fun entertainment at your doorstep, then you’re in the right place.
Weekend trips to Texas cities can be whatever you want them to be. They can easily be romantic getaways, relaxing getaways, or energetic getaways. Let’s take a look at some of the top city weekend getaways in Texas.
1. Austin
Austin, Texas is unlike any other city in Texas. This Texas town would definitely make many people’s list of best weekend getaways.
Austin is known for its live music scene, hipster-vibe, and great food. A weekend in Austin is definitely a one-of-a-kind experience.
Spend your days exploring the outdoor activities that Austin has to offer. Some favorites include Zilker Park and one of the many lakes in Austin like Lady Bird Johnson Lake, or upping your golf game at one of the many public golf courses in Austin.
Of course, a trip to Austin isn’t complete with visiting the Texas State Capital and checking out a UT sports game!
At night, be sure to visit the infamous Austin music scene and nightlife that you find around the city. You can also head to the Congress Street bridge at dusk to see the bats take flight for their nightly feeding.
For a fabulous place to stay while visiting Austin, check out Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa. This resort is located near all of the great Austin attractions but is far enough in the country to make you feel like you are truly on vacation. The Omni Barton Creek Resort is truly a destination in itself!
If you want to stay in the heart of downtown Austin, consider The Fairmont Austin which features a great rooftop pool, or the Westin Austin.
No matter how you choose to spend your weekend, Austin will not disappoint!
2. Dallas
The city of Dallas is one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.
Dallas is known for big hair, big bling, great culture, and awesome food. With loads of fun things to do in Dallas, you could easily spend every weekend here and never get bored!
History lovers can include a trip to the JFK Memorial, the Sixth Floor Museum, and the Dallas Holocaust Museum as part of their weekend getaway.
Museum-lovers will want to visit the Dallas Museum of Art, the Museum of Illusion, the Perot Nature and Science museum, and the Meadows Museum.
Dallas is hands-down one of the best weekend getaways in Texas for sports lovers as Dallas is home to so many professional sports teams.
This city is also home to some great nightlife, easy hiking trails, world-class golf courses, and a great art scene.
Home to numerous resort and spa hotels, Dallas is one of those romantic getaways where you can just relax and chill all weekend if that is what you need! You can enjoy the fabulous resort-style pool at the Hilton Anatole Hotel, the Hotel ZaZa, or the fabulous infinity edge pool at the Canvas Hotel!
If you are looking for the perfect spa resort, check out the Four Seasons Resort and Spa in Las Colinas. The Four Seasons Resort is a destination all to itself with a great resort spa, fabulous dining options, and an incredible golf course, all near the major attractions of both Fort Worth and Dallas.
If you want to be near the heart of downtown Dallas, then consider the Hotel ZaZa or the Crescent Hotel and Spa.
3. Houston
Honestly, I don’t think a lot of people really consider Houston when planning their weekend getaways in Texas, but I would say you are missing out!
Yes, Houston is a big city, and with that comes traffic, and noise, but Houston is still one of the awesome city getaways in Texas.
I mean, Houston is home to an incredible art and cultural scene, world-class museums, fun nightlife, golf courses, and an impeccable food scene. Not only that, but Houston is also home to the NASA Johnson Space Center and is very near the gulf coast town of Galveston. There are even lakes in Houston!
That alone should add Houston to your list of getaways in Texas, but if you’re still not convinced, check out all of the free things to do in Houston!
4. San Antonio
The most recognized “tourist town” in Texas is easily San Antonio. San Antonio is one of our go-to weekend getaways in Texas.
We love the way San Antonio still feels like a small town, even though it is definitely not small.
A Texas weekend in San Antonio is like stepping back in time when you take time to explore San Antonio’s Mission Trail, including the only UNESCO site in Texas, the Alamo.
Take time to explore the San Antonio River Walk to enjoy some great cuisine and fabulous people watching!
During your time in San Antonio, don’t miss out on some of the lesser-known attractions also, like the Japanese Tea Garden, the Witte Museum, and the King Williams Historic District.
For a great spa getaway, try the Mokara Resort and Spa that is located right on the San Antonio riverwalk, or the La Canterra Resort and Spa in the Texas Hill Country that also features a great pool area and a golf course.
There are also numerous state parks near San Antonio and beaches in San Antonio to explore!
No matter what you choose to do here, San Antonio is one of the best weekend getaways in Texas! There is really something for everyone in San Antonio!
5. Fort Worth
Often times you will hear Fort Worth lumped in with it’s “big brother” to the east, Dallas. But I try not to do that to our hometown! It isn’t that I don’t also love Dallas, but Fort Worth is such a great city (with a totally different vibe than Dallas) that it deserves to be a weekend trip all to itself!
There are so many great things to do in Fort Worth that it is well worth spending some time in!
If you want to visit for the cowboy culture, then you have to go to the Fort Worth Stockyards. The Stockyards is the historic district in Fort Worth and with good reason. You see, this is where the cowboys would stop to rest and get their herd together before heading out on the Chisholm Trail.
Visitors today can still live the cowboy lifestyle thanks to the daily cattle drive right through the heart of the Stockyards. You should also check out the many bars, restaurants, and shops while you are in the area to find the perfect Texas souvenirs to take home!
Of course, that isn’t all there is to do in Fort Worth! There is a great cocktail and food scene throughout the city. Some favorite areas include Sundance Square, West 7th Street, Magnolia Street, and the revitalized “Near Southside” neighborhood.
Great hotels in Fort Worth Sundance Square include the Omni Fort Worth, The Sinclair Autograph Collection, and the Worthington Renaissance.
If you want to stay in the Stockyards then you should definitely consider staying at the Hotel Drover, Hyatt Place Stockyards , or the historic Stockyards Hotel.
Fort Worth makes for an awesome Texas weekend getaway for visitors and locals!
6. El Paso
Head into far west Texas, and you will find the town of El Paso.
Bordered by the Rio Grande River, El Paso is a great city to experience some Texas culture. Visitors to El Paso enjoy the natural areas around the Rio Grande River as well as the thriving art and vibrant cutlural scene the city has to offer.
The Musem of Art houses a permanent collection of over 7,000 pieces and the El Paso Museum of History has five exhibit galleries that showcase over 400 years of U.S./Mexico border history.
This Lone Star State town also has some great Tex-Mex food and a cool craft beer festival. If visiting in the summer month, just be sure you book a hotel with a pool as you will need an escape from the Texas heat!
Texas Weekend Trips to the Beach
Let’s face it, a trip to the beach is always a good idea. Lucky for you, Texas has 367 miles of coastline to choose from! Here are a few of our favorite weekend getaways to the beach.
7. Galveston Island
Located about an hour south of Houston, Galveston Island is one of the best weekend getaways when you need a fun, vibey beach town.
In the 1800s Galveston was a thriving port community that was full of wealth! Evidence of this history still remains throughout Galveston Island, especially in the beautiful mansions that line Galveston’s historic district.
A visit here will have you enjoying the waters of the Gulf of Mexico where you can swim, fish, go horseback riding, or just watch the tide roll in.
There are numerous places to stay on the island, some of which are perfect to add to your list of romantic weekend getaways in Texas also.
The Hotel Galvez Resort and Spa has been welcoming visitors since 1911 and is still a favorite resort on Galveston Island and is near the beach and the Historic Pleasure Pier.
Another resort worth mentioning is the San Louis Resort and Spa which is a popular weekend getaway destination thanks to its fabulous amenities.
But don’t just stay in your hotel during your visit. Get out and explore Galveston. There is the Historic Pleasure Pier, the Strand Historic District, and the more just waiting for you on this beach getaway.
8. South Padre Island
You will find South Padre Island near the bottom tip of the great state of Texas. This beach town is best know for the fun spring break parties that happen here annually, but it also makes for a fabulous weekend getaway.
South Padre Island is a coastal community that has long stretches of beaches, a great birding and nature center, and loads of fun beach activities to keep you busy on your weekend getaway.
One of the highlights of a trip to South Padre is a trip to Sea Turtle, Inc. a Texas organization that offers education, rehabilitation, and release of sea turtles!
If that isn’t your thing, don’t worry. There is still plenty to do on South Padre Island. You can visit Schlitterbahn Water Park, spend time on the beach or ocean, or visit the Laguna Madre Nature Trail.
This is one of the getaways in Texas that everyone needs to experience at least once! I mean, Padre is one of the best beaches in Texas!
9. Corpus Christi
Just north of South Padre Island sits another town that should be on your list of weekend getaways in Texas, Corpus Christi.
There are so many things to do in Corpus Christi that you can stay busy for days!
This beach community is often associated with the famous singer, Selena, as this was her hometown as a child. You can take a Selena tour during your visit and see the statue honoring the singer if you would like.
Your weekend trip here can also include the Texas State Aquarium, and a trip to the naval museum, the USS Lexington.
If you are looking for something a little more romantic, then check out the steakhouse at the Omni hotel and have dinner overlooking the bay at sunset before staying in one of their fabulous hotel rooms!
10. Port Aransas
You can’t have a list of weekend getaways to Texas beach towns and not include Port Aransas.
This charming town on the Texas Gulf Coast is one of the laid-back getaways in Texas on our list!
Enjoy the warm gulf waters while you play in the surf and sand on the Port Aransas beaches (especially Mustang Island State Park), or grab your fishing pole and do some fishing! Port Aransas is known as the “Fishing Capital of Texas.”
Of course, there is more to do here than just enjoy the water. You can also enjoy shopping at the many boutique shops and galleries that call Port Aransas home before checking out some of the great restaurants that are available.
There are so many things to do in Port Aransas that you can stay busy for weeks.
Best Weekend Getaways in Texas for Outdoor Lovers
There are so many great weekend getaways in Texas for outdoor lovers to enjoy! In addition to our great weekend getaways to the beach, check out these other destinations!
11. Big Bend National Park
If you are looking for the ultimate weekend trip in Texas, head to the serenity of Big Bend National Park. Home to over 800,000 acres of land, this is one big National Park!
Your Texas weekend getaway to Big Bend National Park allows you to enjoy the diverse topography of this region that includes the mountains, desert, and canyon.
Here you can hike, mountain bike, horseback ride, and kayak in the river while enjoying the quiet, country atmosphere.
You can easily book a tour here as this west Texas park can be a little overwhelming.
12. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Another National Park that is located in West Texas, just east of El Paso, is the Guadalupe Mountain National Park. This park is home to a canyon, desert, and dunes, making this one of the best weekend getaways for outdoor lovers.
One unique aspect of this National Park is the fact that it contains the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef! How cool is that?!
This Texas weekend trip will have you hiking, birding, picnicking, and camping while you enjoy this fabulous getaway in Texas!
13. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
It’s easy to include state parks on your list of weekend getaways in Texas as it is home to 80 state parks!
These weekend trips are always so relaxing, and that includes a trip to Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Home to the second-largest canyon in the United States, Palo Duro Canyon is one of the best weekend getaways for some hiking, horseback riding, and stargazing!
14. Caddo Lake State Park
One of the weekend getaways in Texas located in the eastern part of the state is Caddo Lake State Park.
This Texas State Park has gorgeous bald cypress trees covered in Spanish moss, a load of bayous, sloughs, and ponds! This makes Caddo Lake one of the best Texas weekend trips for my water lovers!
Here you can paddle through the serene waterways enjoying the sites and sounds of nature before retiring to your cabin on the lake. Honestly, this one could even qualify as one of your romantic weekend getaways!
Caddo Lake State Park is a unique Texas destination and well worth a spot on your list of weekend getaways in Texas!
15. Float the River in the Texas Hill Country
One of the best Texas weekend trips is to head into the Texas Hill Country to float the river! This weekend getaway is guaranteed to help you beat the Texas heat!
One of the most popular places to float the river in Texas is New Braunfels. New Braunfels is a small town that is big on summer tourism thanks to the Comal River that runs straight through it. The spring-fed waters of the Comal River are brisk and cool year-round, making it a great place to escape the heat.
During your visit to New Braunfels, you can also head to Schlitterbahn Waterpark and explore the town center.
Near New Braunfels, you will also find the Frio River and the Guadalupe River, both also known for river trips. Just be warned, all of these rivers get busy on the weekends, so plan your tour accordingly!
16. Pedernales Falls State Park
Another great place outdoor destination in Texas is Pedernales Falls State Park. Pedernales Falls State Park is one of our favorite weekend getaways in Texas. We just love this Texas park!
Another Texas Hill Country gem, Pedernales Falls has a beautiful river that runs over and around the huge slabs of limestone that are located here. This makes for some great falls when the river water is high and a tranquil setting when the water is low.
In addition to enjoying the river and falls, you can also hike, camp, bike, and more on this Texas trip.
This is also a great area to see the fabulous bluebonnets in Texas!
17. Enchanted Rock State Park
Known as the big pink granite boulder, Enchanted Rock is a great park to add to your list of weekend trips in Texas.
The Native Americans that once called this area home believed that Enchanted Rock has magical powers and was known to often have ceremonies atop the granite boulder.
Small Town Weekend Getaways in Texas
Texas is full of great small towns to visit on a weekend trip. In my opinion, it is these towns that show you what real Texas hospitality is all about.
Many of them contain great wineries, charming historic downtown areas, and romantic bed and breakfast rooms.
Of course, many are located within a one or two-hour drive of some of the major cities in Texas also, making them easy to include on your list of weekend getaways in Texas.
Here are some of our favorite historic Texas small towns!
18. Wimberley
You will find the small town of Wimberley, Texas located about an hour southwest of Austin. Boasting a thriving art community, romantic cabins, and great wineries, this destination has something for everyone!
Outdoor lovers flock to Wimberley to visit the Blue Hole Regional Park and Jacob’s Well Natural area, especially in the summer months.
Those looking for a romantic escape will love the country setting that makes you feel like you have escaped the city. You can enjoy wine tasting, great spa treatments, and tour some fabulous art studios during your visit to this small Texas town!
19. Nacogdoches
Nacogdoches is a small town located in east Texas.
Visitors to Nacogdoches can enjoy exploring the history of the oldest town in Texas! A great place to start is a visit to Millard’s Crossing Historic Village where you will see an East Texas Pioneer settlement.
You can also enjoy boutique shops and restaurants, antique shopping, and a historic downtown area on your visit.
In addition to all of the things to do, Nacogdoches has some of the best bed and breakfast accommodations in Texas!
20. Port Isabel
Don’t overlook Port Isabel when planning a weekend trip in Texas. One of the oldest coastal communities in Texas, Port Isabel is the perfect place to explore one weekend.
Visitors love seeing the 1800s Isabel lighthouse and enjoy the many water activities the town is famous for. Spend your day fishing, going on a dolphin cruise, or just hanging out in the cute town when you visit Port Isabel.
21. Fredericksburg
One of our favorite small towns in Texas is Fredericksburg! Honestly, I am not sure how long it will stay a small town though as Fredericksburg is quickly becoming the destination for Texas wine lovers!
Like the town of Muenster, TX, Fredericksburg started as a small German settlement is today one of the premier wine regions in Texas. Located about one hour outside of San Antonio in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, this historic town is full of charm and loads of wine!
While Fredericksburg is one of the great weekend getaways in Texas, it also gets busty here on the weekend, so be warned.
During your weekend trip to Fredericksburg, you can enjoy learning all about the historic destination by visiting the Pioneer Museum in the center of town. You can also tour Fort Martin Scott and the National Museum of the Pacific War.
Be sure to do a wine tasting at the best wineries in Fredericksburg to try some delicious Texas wine! The center of town, Fredericksburg’s Main Street is lined with great art galleries, boutique shops, and fun restaurants.
Just west of town, you will find Enchanted Rock. A great escape to the country to reconnect with nature.
There are other small towns near Fredericksburg that are worth exploring also, including Johnson City and Luckenbach.
22. Dripping Springs
If you are looking for a romantic weekend getaway, then you definitely want to have Dripping Springs on your list. Located about 35 minutes west of Austin, this small country town is known as the “Wedding Capital of Texas.”
If you aren’t in the market to get married, don’t worry, Dripping Springs still has plenty to offer. You can visit Hamilton Pool Preserve, browse the shops, art galleries, and historic buildings in the town center on Mercer Street, and even visit the real dripping springs, the town’s namesake.
Of course, a visit to Dripping Springs would not be complete without taking a tour of some of the fabulous vineyards, distilleries, and olive orchards that call Dripping Springs home. Top places to visit in and near dripping springs include Dripping Springs Vodka, Texas Hill Country Olive Company, Deep Eddy Vodka, and Bell Springs Winery.
Rooms in Dripping Springs range from charming rooms at bed and breakfasts to great hotel rooms, so you are sure to find something that is perfect for your weekend getaway.
23. Terlingua
If you are planning a trip to Big Bend National Park, then you will likely stay in the town of Terlingua. Located near the border of the great state of Texas, Terlingua is a tiny desert town in west Texas.
Don’t make that a reason not to visit Terlingua though. This little town is a great weekend trip!
Most people come to Terlingua to explore the abandoned building and homes that were once occupied in Terlingua but now aren’t. For you see, at one time, Terlingua was actually considered a Texas ghost town.
It wasn’t until tourists “rediscovered” Big Bend that Terlingua started to experience a resurgence. Don’t get me wrong though, there still isn’t much to this small town. It’s just a small, quirky Texas town that is worth a weekend getaway to see and enjoy Big Bend from.
24. Granbury
Granbury used to be a quiet lakeside community, but it has experienced a lot of growth in the past few years. Despite that, Granbury is still one of the great small towns in Texas that are perfect for a weekend away.
The area around Granbury’s town square is perfect for a day of shopping and eating! The Granbury Square has some great boutique shops, cute casual cafes, and great wineries all within a few blocks.
Granbury is also home to the historic Granbury Opera House and the live music venue, Granbury Live.
Of course, the biggest attraction in this town is Lake Granbury. People from all over Texas come to Lake Granbury to enjoy some recreation on the lake.
25. West
The Czech town of West is the perfect weekend escape in Texas.
Known far and wide for the famous kolaches that are produced at the Czech Stop Bakery, many people make a stop in West while on their way to and from Austin. But don’t just hit up the Czech Stop and leave, explore the town of West next time you are in the area.
Every September they celebrate their Czech heritage with a huge festival called “Westfest”. Here you can have fun dancing to polka music and try all of the Czech food you can possibly think of!
Enjoy shopping at the town’s antique stores and exploring the cute boutique shops of the area during your time in West also!
26. Glen Rose
Not far from Granbury, and about 1.5 hours from Dallas, Glen Rose is a great place to head for the weekend.
Glen Rose has a great small-town feel while still having plenty of things to do to keep you busy.
Visitors come from all over to visit Dinosaur Valley State Park and Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose.
These aren’t the only attractions in this town though. While in Glen Rose you can also visit Big Rocks Park, Dinosaur World, and shop until you drop around the town Courthouse.
There is also a great River Walk area on the Paluxy River that leads guests into Glen Rose’s Heritage Park.
Read These Next:
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Austin to Fredericksburg: The Perfect Weekend Road Trip
Weekend Getaways from Dallas: 20 Great Choices
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Great Lavender Fields in Texas and Lavender Festivals to Visit
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About the Author
Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel. Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.
Melanie
Monday 6th of February 2023
I just took a long, overnight layover in Houston and honestly it was so disappointing....however, it made me want to visit the city again for longer and give it another chance. I've enjoyed my time in Austin and San Antonio.
texasonly
Tuesday 7th of February 2023
Maybe when you have more time to explore. I tell people that Houston has great museums and a good food scene. If you aren't into those things, it might not be the city for you. :)
Jenn | By Land and Sea
Monday 6th of February 2023
We've done weekend getaways in Austin and San Antonio, but the other places you mentioned here look like they have potential too! Thanks for sharing!
Lisa | Waves and Cobblestones
Monday 6th of February 2023
I love the Schlitterbahn! What an amazing water park!
texasonly
Tuesday 7th of February 2023
It is a great place for sure!
Tanya T
Sunday 5th of February 2023
All these cities look fun! I can't wait to visit Texas again.
Terri
Saturday 22nd of October 2022
Every time I visit Austin, I can count on discovering some great new restaurant and enjoy the best Tex-Mex foods, including the best salsa anywhere.