6 Easy Day Trips You Can Take From Austin, My Favorite Included

Austin, Texas, is arguably one of the coolest cities in the USA by anyone's standards. I love visiting it whenever I can, and I'm always amazed by how many different things there are to see and do. However, if you're visiting Austin, or even if you live there, don't sleep on the many great places to visit just beyond the city limits as well!

You can experience much of this part of Texas by taking short day trips. There are so many adventures to be had, and you'll have a richer experience when you take some time to check out the many wonderful places that are just a short drive beyond Austin's edge. Learn more about six places you'll love that aren't far from Texas's state capital—and get ready to make some new memories you'll treasure for years to come.

1. Wimberley

If you love small towns surrounded by natural beauty, you'll surely enjoy a short jaunt to Wimberley, Texas, just 45 minutes away. Travel Holiday Magazine included it on its list of America's Best Small Towns, and it's easy to see why. This small Texas town of just under 3,000 residents is known to be welcoming and friendly, and you'll love visiting its many shops, galleries, and restaurants. Swim at Jacob's Well artesian spring, take a horseback ride in the Hill Country, picnic at Blue Hole Regional Park, or sit back and enjoy some local music. You'll love visiting Wimberley, and as soon as you leave, you'll likely start planning a future visit to explore it even more.

2. Lockhart

Another fantastic small town to visit near Austin is Lockhart. It's quite a bit bigger than Wimberley, with a population of around 15,000 residents, but you'll still find it quite quaint and pleasant in every way. The Texas state legislature declared Lockhart the BBQ Capital of Texas, and over 250,000 people come to eat at Lockhart's four incredible BBQ restaurants each year. You'll also love wandering Lockhart's historic downtown and visiting places like Lockhart State Park, the Caldwell County Jail Museum, and the Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches. It's a lovely place to spend a relaxing day in South Texas.

3. San Antonio

If a large but different city is what you crave, then you can take I-35 south for 90 minutes to San Antonio. San Antonio has so much to offer and is one of the state's largest and most historic cities. The most popular attractions in this southern city are The Alamo and the city's famous and beautiful River Walk, but there are plenty of other things to see and do during a day trip there as well. You might consider touring some of San Antonio's historic missions at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, riding some roller coasters at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, or dining at one or more of San Antonio's 12 Michelin-recognized restaurants. You'll love San Antonio as much as I do!

4. New Braunfels & Gruene

Slightly closer than San Antonio but also to the south, you might instead enjoy checking out the city of New Braunfels. It was founded in 1845 by German settlers, and numerous historic German buildings from that time period have been preserved in the beautiful Greune Historic District. This city of 110,000 residents is known for its rivers—the Comal and Guadalupe—and you might consider kayaking or tubing on them, or simply relaxing in the parks along their shores. You'll surely find New Braunfels charming and welcoming, and have a fun and full day of exploring everything it offers.

5. Dripping Springs

Travelers looking to spend time surrounded by natural beauty might enjoy visiting Dripping Springs. It's just 35 minutes west of the city, but you'll feel like you're a million miles from the hustle and bustle of Austin. This town is known for its natural wonders like Hamilton Pool Preserve, but it is full of unique shopping, history, quaint shops, breweries, distilleries, live music venues, and more. Take a leisurely stroll down historic Mercer Street, visit the Pound House Farmstead and Museum, or simply relax and enjoy the best of all Texas Hill Country offers.

6. Pedernales Falls State Park

Are you looking to enjoy a relaxing day in nature? If so, then Pedernales Falls State Park may be your perfect choice. This large, 5,212-acre state park is 25 miles west of Austin, and it's quiet, serene, and exceptionally beautiful. It has 19.8 miles of hiking and biking trails, but most visitors opt to spend their time doing activities that focus on the Pedernales River, like tubing, wading, fishing, and swimming. The park is also home to abundant wildlife, including birds, deer, armadillos, rabbits, coyotes, possums, raccoons, and more. Bring a picnic lunch and relax by the river all day.

Any or all of these day trips are sure to please! No matter which you choose, you'll have an unforgettable adventure that you'll never forget. Choose one or more and get ready to hit the road—and don't forget to pack some snacks. Have a great trip!