During summer, most people take vacations to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Unfortunately, not everyone is able to take off a full week from their job, or even two weeks, so we’ve compiled a list of 10 day trips near me that can be experienced in a single day, or even a weekend. They’re also some of the best day trips in Texas.

1. Visit The Dallas World Aquarium - Dallas
Yelp/The Dallas World Aquarium
The Dallas World Aquarium, 1801 N Griffin St, Dallas, TX 75202, USA
Yelp/Mark B.
The name "Aquarium" is actually a bit misleading because you'll find much more than just sea life here. There are owls, tigers, and everything in between. It's basically a three-story indoor zoo, and if that doesn't excite you, I don't know what will. For more information about The Dallas World Aquarium, be sure to take a look at its official website.
2. Go tubing down the Frio River - Concan
Frio River, Concan, TX 78838, USA
Flickr/danielray
Many people access this river through Garner State Park, which is a good time in and of itself. The water is cool (hence its name), there are rapids, and the surrounding greenery is beautiful. Take a look at this article for more information about Texas' Frio River.
3. Kayak on Caddo Lake - Uncertain
Caddo lake, United States
Flickr/freewine
You've never known true peace and serenity unless you've been to Caddo Lake. The only noises you'll hear are the sounds of the animals residing within the trees and the water gently parting for you to move through it. To learn more about Caddo Lake, check out this article.
4. Explore the Fort Davis National Historic Site - Fort Davis
101 Lt Flipper Dr, Fort Davis, TX 79734
Flickr/mytravelphotos
This is one of the best examples of a U.S. Army fort in the country. There are 24 fully restored buildings and more than 100 ruins for you to explore. Self-guided tours start at the visitor center, and living history demonstrations are common during the summer. Visit this website to learn more about Texas' Fort Davis National Historic Site.

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5. Drive the "Three Sisters" - Vanderpool to Medina
The Texas Twisted Sisters NW Corner, Ranch to Market Rd 335, Rocksprings, TX 78880, USA
Flickr/matthigh
Also called the "Twisted Sisters," these three ranch roads (335, 336, 337) intertwine and wind through the Central Texas hills to make for a drive like nothing you've ever experienced. Although commonly associated with motorcyclists, this ride is just as fun in a car. You'll learn all about the "Twisted Sisters" drive with a look at this article.
6. Stroll through the Fort Worth Stockyards - Fort Worth
131 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76164, USA
Flickr/stevenm_61
Can you really say you're a Texan if you've never been to the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards? There's so much to do here, but you can't leave without visiting the world's largest honky tonk, Billy Bob's. Visit this website to learn all about the Fort Worth Stockyards.
7. Tour the Natural Bridge Caverns - New Braunfels
26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, USA
Flickr/bendini
We know how hot Texas summers can be, so much so that sometimes escaping underground is the only option. There are several tour options ranging from a simple walk-through to an adventure tour with rappelling and tiny crawl spaces. Take a look at this article to learn all about Texas' Natural Bridge Caverns.
8. Hike the Palo Duro Canyon - Canyon
Palo Duro Canyon, Texas 79226, USA
Flickr/sarowen
Also known as the "Texas Grand Canyon," Palo Duro Canyon is only lesser in size to the real thing. You'll hardly believe you're in Texas when you see the towering red rocks. For more information about Texas' Palo Duro Canyon, take a look at this article.
9. See real dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park - Glen Rose
1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043, USA
Yelp/Iris L.
Kids will absolutely love this park! They can compare their footprints to those of ancient beasts that walked the earth millions of years ago. It's pretty amazing to look at. Check out this article for more information about Texas' Dinosaur Valley State Park.
10. Ride the day away at Six Flags Over Texas - Arlington
2201 E Road to Six Flags St, Arlington, TX 76010, USA
Flickr/wallaceperspective
Would it really be summer without paying a visit to an amusement park? Lucky for us, we've got an awesome one right in our own backyard. Whip and whirl all day long on roller coasters and get the adrenaline rush of a lifetime. You'll learn all about Six Flags Over Texas with a visit to this website.

Have you been lucky enough to take any of these 10 Texas day trips? If so, please share your experience(s) with us in the comments below. Also, share with us one of your favorite day trip destinations.

For a list of unique day trips near me in Texas, be sure to take a look at the following article: These 14 Unique Day Trips In Texas Belong On Your State Bucket List.

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Jennifer Young | March 31, 2022

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