The open road stretches before you, and its time to heed the call. Central Texas is a sprawling landscape full of gorgeous views and wondrous attractions. Road tripping through Texas doesn't have to drain your wallet, however. These are 7 inexpensive road trip destinations from Austin that won't break the bank.
1. Big Bend National Park
This 6.5 hour drive is full of rolling hillsides and jaw-dropping views. Escape into another world and enjoy the blissful nature around you. This natural park sits on over 800,000 acres of land in west Texas and will soon become your home away from home.
You can camp among the stunning views for as low as $14 a night. Park passes cost $25 per vehicle and are valid for one week.
2. San Antonio
Take a quick 1.5 hour drive down S I-35 and visit Austin's neighbor, San Antonio. Feast on enchiladas and bask in the gorgeous riverwalk views. No trip to San Antonio would be complete, however, without soaking up some Texas history at the Alamo. Because of its short distance from Austin, you could even save yourself the hotel cost and complete this road trip in one day.
3. Waco
If you're short on time, Waco is another destination you can make a day trip to. In just a little over 1.5 hours, you can make it to one of Texas' hottest cities. Take photos along the stunning Waco suspension bridge and tour the Dr. Pepper Museum. You can even browse Magnolia Market, a lush shopping area owned by Fixer Upper stars Chip and Joanna Gaines. For more information about this Central Texas day trip, read the full article here
4. Marfa
If you're up for the drive, Marfa is definitely worth the trip. Settled in the 1880s as a water stop, Marfa soon became a ghost town in the '80s and '90s. Today, Marfa is considered an artsy, hipster heaven. The quirky minimalist art installations and stunning galleries attract people from all over.
5. Fort Worth
A three hour drive will take you far away from Austin's Silicon Hills and into true cowboy country. The Fort Worth Stockyards is about as Texas as you can get. Sink your teeth into some barbecue from Cooper's or Woodshed and maybe even watch the cowboys rope cattle. There's also the National Cowgirl Museum, the Fort Worth Botanical Garden, and The Kimbell Art Museum. No matter what you're in the mood for, you're sure to find some fun in Fort Worth.
6. New Braunfels
You'll hardly go through one tank of gas on your road trip to New Braunfels. This water town is only a hop, skip, and a jump away from Austin. Float down the Comal or Guadalupe Rivers and soak up the Texas sunshine. New Braunfels is also home to Schlitterbahn, a thrilling waterpark of epic proportions. After you've cooled off in the refreshing waters, visit the Snake Farm Zoo and stroll through Fischer Park.
River tube rentals start as low as $20, but you can save some cash by bringing your own.
7. Luckenbach and Fredericksburg
Hang out with Waylon and Willie and the boys in Luckenbach, Texas. After dancing the night away at the world famous Luckenbach music venue, take a quick 15 minute drive to Fredericksburg's main street. You could spend hours window shopping at these charming boutiques. Grab a bite to eat at Auslander and enjoy some authentic German sausage for only $13.45. This picturesque road trip is only 1.5 hours away from Austin.
What's your favorite inexpensive trip to take from Austin?
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