The Friendly Small Town In Texas That’s Perfect For A Summer Day Trip

If you're in the midst of planning your summer getaways for this year, might I suggest adding Lago Vista to your list? This charming small town is just a stone's throw away from Austin, yet it feels lightyears away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Boasting gorgeous scenery, direct access to Lake Travis, great food, nearby wineries, and some of the friendliest locals you'll ever meet, Lago Vista is one of the best summer day trips in Texas. I just know you'll fall in love with the town and want to come back every year!

Welcome to Lago Vista! While the city's population has grown to around 9,000 since this photo was taken, the fact still remains that it is a charming small town perfect for a day trip (especially during the summertime!).

Tucked away on the northern shores of the beautiful Lake Travis, Lago Vista offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the Austin metro despite being only 20 minutes away from the Capital City.

Since we're trying to pack as much fun as possible into a single day, some java is definitely in order. Latte Vista Cafe & Coffee Shop uses 100% fair trade coffee, and it's every local's choice for grabbing their morning cup of joe.

The abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities in and around Lago Vista are what make it especially worth visiting during the summer. Arkansas Bend Park, for example, is a 323-acre hidden gem that offers direct access to Lake Travis for swimming, boating, fishing, and more.

I had to pinch myself when I first saw how blue the water is here. The rich, sapphire hue is almost too beautiful for words!

Arkansas Bend also offers several multi-use hiking trails, picnic tables, a playground, and BBQ grills, so you could easily spend a few hours having fun in the sun without getting bored.

There's a good chance you'll be starving after a full morning of outdoor play, so refuel with a hearty lunch at The Bunker Bar and Grille, which is located within the Lago Vista Golf Course complex.

Here, you'll find everything from burgers and chicken-fried steak to fresh seafood, plus unparalleled lakefront views.

A mere seven miles to the northwest is where you'll find Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, which, at over 33,000 acres, is one of the nation's largest urban preserves. Boating numerous hiking trails and providing a habitat for several endangered species, this secluded treasure will make you feel like you're the last person on earth.

Oenophiles, rejoice! Also in Marble Falls lies Flat Creek Estate Winery and Vineyard, one of the best (and most beautiful) wineries in all of Texas.

Enjoy a relaxed wine tasting (indoors or out), which consists of a flight of 35 of the vineyard's finest labels.

The winery also has an on-site restaurant, Ellera, that is the perfect place for a Tuscan-inspired dinner. Enjoy pizza, pasta, and fine steak and seafood in an elegant, yet rustic setting.

Have you ever visited Lago Vista? If so, do you think it's one of the best summer day trips in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don't forget to check out our previous article for more day trips in Texas that are perfect for any time of year.