8 Best Texas Road Trips

By Dejan B.. Published on June 13, 2017

Start your engine and discover all the cool places worth visiting in Texas. Yes, Texas probably has the best BBQ joints in the world and there are tons of interesting things to do and sightseeing spots to check out. Here is our list of best road trips from Texas.

Austin

The capital of Texas, Austin is considered being the "Live Music Capital of the World". If you decide to go on road trip to this amazing city, take a tour of the Texas State Capitol Building. Those who love to hike will be happy to hear that there are 12 miles of trail paths in Barton Creek Greenbelt. In the evening, head out to Rainey Street and see some of the best live music performances in the city. Austin is also known for its barbecue. Salt Lick, Franklin’s and many other BBQ joints offer delicious smoked meats.

Big Bend National Park

If you wish to get away from all the hustle and bustle of big cities in Texas, drive to Big Bend National Park for some peace and quiet. Perfect for hiking, this beautiful national park also offers amazing mountain views. Don’t forget to check out the lively art scene in Marfa and the ruins of Sam Nail Ranch. Some of the main attractions here at Big Bend National Park include Santa Elena Canyon, Boquillas Canyon, and Hot Springs Historic District.

Galveston

Galveston is known for its Historic Downtown Strand District where you will find a great selection of art galleries, historic buildings, and shops. Check out the Texas Seaport Museum and learn about the shipping trade in early 19th century. Go on a hiking trail or visit the famous Bishop’s Palace. Galveston is also famous for great restaurants such as Millers Seawall Grill, Mario's Seawall Italian Restaurant, and Nick's Kitchen and Beach Bar. Don’t leave the city before going to Lone Star Flight Museum and Galveston Island State Park.

San Antonio

San Antonio has a lot to offer to its visitors and it’s no wonder that there are thousands of tourists each week walking down the streets of the Alamo. Head out to the River Walk, a pedestrian walkway where you will see a number of riverside bars, lovely gardens, and a couple of picturesque footbridges. Explore the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park or escape the large crowds of tourists and go to the Natural Bridge Caverns. There are several museums worth visiting such as Briscoe Western Art Museum and McNay Art Museum. After all the sightseeing, it’s time to get some food. If you are in the mood for some premium Mexican cuisine, check out Pollos Asados Los Nortenos. Travelers who more into BBQ should definitely try smoked meats at Bohanan's Prime Steak and Seafood and Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse.

Houston

Houston is a perfect destination If you are looking for a weekend road trip that will include sightseeing, delicious food, and a chance to see some of the best museums in Texas. For spectacular city views take the elevator to the 60TH floor of the JPMorgan Chase Tower. Don’t forget to explore the famous Space Center Houston and the Cockrell Butterfly Center. Houston is also famous for its BBQ joints such as Taste of Texas Restaurant, Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, and Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse. Travelers who prefer Mexican dishes may want to visit Hugo's and Caracol Coastal Mexican.

Fort Worth

Fort Worth is the home to the oldest zoo in Texas, the Fort Worth Zoo. Check out around 7,000 exotic and native animals including white tigers, African lions, rockhopper penguins and many others. Take a stroll through the National Historic District and see the largest collection of Asian art in the country at the Kimbell Art Museum. Some of the other must-see attractions in Fort Worth include Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and Fort Worth Japanese Garden.

Wimberley

Located right between Austin and San Antonio, Wimberley is famous for Jacob's Well Natural Area-Hays County Parks. This 140ft deep cave is the longest underwater cave in all of Texas. Regular visitors can go to a 12ft swimming hole, while only professional divers can go all the way down. Take a walk through the Blue Hole Regional Park or watch a show at the Corral Theatre. In the evening, head out to the outdoor movie theater here in Wimberley.

Lockhart

The BBQ capital of Texas with food joints like Black's Barbecue and Smitty’s Market, Lockhart is a great destination for a road trip if you are into smoked meats. Explore the Caldwell County Jail Museum and check out Dr. Eugene Clark Library. Purchase souvenirs at Manny Gammage's Texas Hatters and grab a drink at the Pearl.