Trips & Routes

Trips & Routes

The 6 Best Outdoorsy Towns to Explore in Texas

If you're someone who loves the great outdoors, then you'll love visiting these outdoorsy small towns in Texas and the natural beauty that surrounds them.

by Christy Articola
on Jun 15
Red and blue flowers bloom under a blue Texas sky
Trips & Routes

This Walkable German City in Texas Is a Must-Visit Gem

by Cait Kontalis
on May 23
A flower field in Fredericksburg, Texas
Trips & Routes

One of Texas’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar

by Katie Lawrence
on May 11
Entrance sign to Aurora Cemetery in Aurora, Texas, framed by trees and historic stone pillars.
Trips & Routes

This Little-Known Waterfront Town Is One of the Most Charming in Texas

by Katie Lawrence
on Apr 10
Long wooden fishing pier in Palacios, Texas, stretching into blue water under a wide sky with scattered clouds at sunset.
Trips & Routes

Between Kerrville and Hunt Is an Underrated Roadside Attraction

by Katie Lawrence
on Apr 10
Landscape view of Stonehenge II in Ingram, Texas, under a blue sky.

Latest Trips & Routes

Trips & Routes

This Unexpected Place in Texas Is One of the Best Road Trip Stops You’ve Never Considered

Gas up the car and cruise to one of the best road trip stops in Texas. There is something to see around every corner at this unexpected destination.

by Melanie Johnson
on Mar 17
Historic city jail building in a small town in Texas, made of red brick, surrounded by a fence and greenery.
Trips & Routes

The Small Texas Town Locals Hope Stays Off Tourists’ Radar

Tucked between San Antonio and the Gulf Coast, Goliad is a hidden small town in Texas where centuries-old landmarks still shape the landscape.

by Katie Lawrence
on Mar 9
Colorful historic storefronts and parked trucks line the main street in downtown Goliad, Texas.
Trips & Routes

5 Vibrant Places That Show Off Texas’s Colorful Side

We found the most colorful places in Texas that will brighten any dreary day. They’re pure magic!

by Melanie Johnson
on Feb 19
Brightly painted Cadillacs, buried nose-down at Cadillac Ranch, a popular roadside attraction in Texas.
byThe Route 66 Centennial

The Ultimate Guide to Route 66: Texas

Plan the perfect Route 66 road trip through Texas, from historic towns to roadside attractions, motels, and diners.

by Matt Kirouac
on Jan 28
Route 66 sign welcomes visitors to Amarillo, TX.
Trips & Routes

4 Small Towns in Texas So Dreamy, You’ll Swear You’ve Seen Them on TV

Looking for dreamy small towns in Texas? These four hidden gems top the list. Whether you prefer the beach, the mountains, the Hill Country, or the Piney Woods, they offer a bit of everything.

by Katie Lawrence
on Jan 22
A vintage blue pickup truck with whitewall tires is parked in front of a historic general store decorated with red, white, and blue bunting, with signs advertising ice cream, sodas, T-shirts, and jams and jellies.
Trips & Routes

I Don’t Kayak, But This Epic Sunset Tour in Texas Is Seriously Mind-Blowing

Ready for a unique outdoor adventure? Paddle at sunset and witness a rare phenomenon on this kayaking tour in Texas.

by Melanie Johnson
on Jan 17
A group of kayakers on a sunset tour in Texas, drifting under a crowded bridge with the downtown Austin skyline in the distance.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Discover the Texas Small Town That Looks Like a Hallmark Movie Set

Explore Boerne, one of the most charming small towns in Texas, known for its historic Main Street, local art, boutique shopping, and Hill Country charm.

by Katie Lawrence
on Oct 8
Festive Main Street in Boerne, one of the most charming small towns in Texas, with historic buildings and twinkling holiday lights decorating local shops and restaurants.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

The Small Town in Texas That Feels Like Stars Hollow

Step into Gruene, Texas, a small town straight out of Gilmore Girls, where historic charm, live music, and cozy shops create the perfect getaway.

by Katie Lawrence
on Sep 21
Visitors explore the Gruene General Store and Cotton Eyed Joe’s on a sunny day, surrounded by blooming trees and local charm.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Escape to This Charming Mountain Town in Texas Before Fall Ends

Explore Alpine, Texas, a charming mountain town filled with art, history, and desert beauty, perfect for a fall getaway.

by Katie Lawrence
on Sep 12
Scenic desert highway winding through the West Texas mountains at golden hour.
Trips & Routes

Dreaming of France? Discover This Texas Hidden Gem Instead

Discover the town known as "Little Alsace of Texas." With wildflowers and timeless architecture, this European-inspired Texas town looks like a village in the French countryside.

by Katie Lawrence
on May 19
A field of red poppies with an old settlement and a windmill in the background, in Castroville, a European-style town in TX.
Trips & Routes

This Texas Waterfront Village Looks Like It Belongs in Europe

La Villita is one of San Antonio's oldest neighborhoods, now a shopping destination. It's nestled on the River Walk and looks like a European village in Texas.

by Katie Lawrence
on Apr 10
san antonio riveralk lit up at night in san antonio, texas
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Remote Town in Texas We Simply Can’t Get Enough Of

Have you ever been on a long road trip and driven through a tiny, remote town that looked so interesting you decided to stop? Van Horn, Texas, is one of those towns that's worth a stop.

by Melissa Mahoney
on Jul 9
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Trips & Routes
Road Trips

Why Corpus Christi, the Gateway to  Padre Island National Seashore, Is Worth a Visit in Its Own Right

Skip the sands of the National Seashore and head to the waterside activities of this adjacent coastal Texas town, instead.

by Molly O'Brien
on Jun 24
People ride horses on the beach
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Skip Europe This Summer: This Historic Village in Texas Is Just as Quaint as Braunfels, Germany

It's like a stroll back in time with traditional historic architecture, ample outdoor adventure opportunities, and tons of tasty food.

by Molly O'Brien
on Jun 11
A look at the Main Plaza Driving Cirlce
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Remote Town in Texas We Simply Can’t Get Enough Of

Terlingua is a remote town in Texas that's the perfect home base for visiting Big Bend National Park, stargazing, and more.

by Jackie Sutherlin
on Jun 10
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Trips & Routes
Day Trips

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

Austin is fantastic, but sometimes it's great to get out of the city for a while. Head out on the open road for a short jaunt and enjoy these day trips to destinations not far from the Texas state capital.

by Christy Articola
on Apr 18
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Trips & Routes
Day Trips

The Walkable Texas Town That’s Known for Its Welcoming Vibes and Charm

San Antonio is a wonderful place to visit at any time of the year and is considered one of the most walkable cities in the USA, despite its large size.

by Christy Articola
on Feb 17
San Antonio, Texas, from above on a beautiful, sunny day
Trips & Routes

From Vineyards to Vistas, This Two-Day Trip Through Texas Hill Country as Scenic as It Gets

Take a Texas Hill Country road trip to explore scenic wineries, stunning overlooks, and legendary BBQ on this unforgettable two-day getaway.

by Jasmine Vieau
on Feb 18
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Nature
National & State Parks
Trips & Routes
Travel Preparation & Advice

The Ultimate Guide to Stargazing at Big Bend National Park, According to a Texan

Stargazing at Big Bend National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but it requires careful planning.

by Katie Lawrence
on Jan 28
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Experiences
Trips & Routes

26 Exciting Things to Do in Texas in 2026 (You’ll Want to Save This List)

Discovering the best things to do in Texas in 2026 is one of my resolutions for this year, so I put together the ultimate bucket list in case you’d like to join me. From the most iconic destinations like Big Bend National Park to smaller, family-friendly attractions such as Gator Country, these 26 must-visit places across the Lone Star State promise a year filled with adventure.

by Katie Lawrence
on Dec 29
American and Texas state flags flying atop the dome of the Texas State Capitol building in Austin
Trips & Routes

Texas’ Rising Star: This Underrated City Is Ideal for Any Traveler

With all it has to offer both its residents and visitors alike, Marfa, Texas is a destination truly worth traveling to.

by Melissa Mahoney
on Dec 13
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Trips & Routes

The Remote Destination in Texas Where the Drive Is Worth the Final View

This 191-mile journey is by far one of the best scenic drives in Texas, showcasing lush greenery, pristine bodies of water, and undulating hills.

by Katie Lawrence
on Sep 27
A dirt road winds through a sunny landscape with hills, greenery, and scattered clouds in a blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Road Trips

The Scenic Road Trip That Leads to 5 of Texas’s Most Charming Small Towns

The towns I’ve chosen offer a nice mixture of urban and outdoor recreation, so you can enjoy a well-rounded vacation sure to leave you feeling refreshed.

by Katie Lawrence
on Sep 20
Aerial view of a river winding through a town, featuring a stone bridge and autumn-colored trees along the banks.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Blink-and-You’ll-Miss-It Town in Texas Is so Worth Exploring

The atmosphere at the Albert Dance Hall is one of camaraderie and lightheartedness, and plain enjoyment of life’s simple pleasures in this tiny Texas town.

by Katie Lawrence
on Oct 24
exterior of the Albert dancehall with open doors and picnic tables outside along with string lights at night in albert Texas
Trips & Routes

The Spontaneous Road Trip Through Texas That Is The Perfect Weekend Of Adventure

by Katie Lawrence
on Jun 17
Map showing a road trip route through Texas, highlighting stops like Enchanted Rock and Pedernales Falls State Park.
Trips & Routes

The Incredible Road Trip Through Texas That Leads You To 5 Stunning Lakes

by Katie Lawrence
on Jun 3
Map showing a road trip route through Texas lakes, highlighting Lake of the Pines and Lake Livingston.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

Experience A New Side Of Texas On This One-Of-A-Kind Adventure

by Katie Lawrence
on May 11
A boat named "Dolphin Watch" sails at sunset, with passengers enjoying the view against a colorful sky.
Trips & Routes

The Breathtaking Scenic Drive In Texas That Runs Through A National Wildlife Refuge

by Katie Lawrence
on May 7
A serene wetland scene with calm water reflecting clouds, surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers under a blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Road Trips

The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through Texas Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

by Katie Lawrence
on Apr 18
Map highlighting a scenic flower road trip route in Texas, featuring key locations and travel times.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Perfect Texas Getaway To Take If You Have Been Dreaming Of Europe

by Katie Lawrence
on Feb 21
A white gazebo with a pointed roof stands in a park, surrounded by bare trees and a cloudy sky. An American flag is visible.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

This Unique State Park In Texas Is Perfect For A Day Trip Any Time Of Year

by Katie Lawrence
on Feb 15
A red canoe rests on a sandy bank by a calm river, surrounded by trees and a cloudy sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Small-Town Restaurant That Is Worth A Visit From Anywhere In Texas

by Katie Lawrence
on Jan 30
Cozy restaurant interior with blue booths, wooden tables, and warm lighting, featuring framed photos on the walls.
Trips & Routes

The State Exploration Challenge – Essential Texas Stops For Any Roadtrip

by Marisa Roman
on Jan 4
A sunset view of a bridge with people, surrounded by images of Texas landscapes, promoting the Texas Exploration Challenge.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

Galveston In Texas Is The Perfect Southwest Winter Travel Destination

by Melissa Mahoney
on Dec 27
A serene beach at sunset, with gentle waves and a distant skyline under a golden sky.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Charming Community Might Just Be The Most Peaceful Place To Live In Texas

by Katie Lawrence
on Dec 7
Welcome sign for Fulshear, Texas, featuring stone structure and landscaping under a cloudy sky.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

This Charming European-Inspired Museum In Texas Is The Perfect Place For A Day Trip

by Katie Lawrence
on Nov 23
A windmill structure at Tex Ritter Park, surrounded by greenery and flowers under a blue sky with clouds.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

One Of The Most Remote Small Towns In Texas Is The Perfect Place To Get Away From It All

by Katie Lawrence
on Nov 14
Historic buildings line a street, featuring Sengelmann Hall and City Hall, with parked cars in front under a clear sky.
Trips & Routes

The Under-The-Radar Scenic Drive In Texas That Showcases Towering Mountains

by Katie Lawrence
on Nov 10
A panoramic view of a desert landscape with distant mountains and a cloudy sky. Green plants in the foreground.
Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

7 Christmas Towns in Texas That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer

Make your holiday unforgettable by visiting the best Christmas towns in Texas. They're full of holiday magic.

by Katie Lawrence
on Nov 11
Christmas Capital of Texas
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Most Charming College Town In Texas Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More

by Katie Lawrence
on Oct 13
A sunny street view of a small town with historic buildings, shops, and parked cars along a brick road.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

The Charming Small Town In Texas That’s Perfect For A Fall Day Trip

by Katie Lawrence
on Oct 13
A vibrant orange tree stands beside a wooden sign for Lost Maples State Natural Area, surrounded by greenery.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

15 Slow-Paced Small Towns Near Dallas–Fort Worth Where Life Still Feels Simple

Explore 15 charming small towns around Dallas-Fort Worth for a peaceful escape from city life.

by Robin McClure
on Apr 14
a building by the main street in small town Waxahachie, texas
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Small Town in Texas That Comes Alive in the Fall Season

With its small-town charm, Southern hospitality, and scenery, Winnsboro is a glorious place to visit in the fall.

by Katie Lawrence
on Nov 12
a road winds through fall colors in winnsboro texas
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Enjoy The Simple Life When You Visit This Tiny Rural Community In Texas

Dublin, Texas, offers a charming small-town experience with historic museums, Southern hospitality, and the first Dr Pepper bottling facility.

by Katie Lawrence
on Sep 17
A small town street scene featuring shops, traffic lights, and a clear blue sky. Traffic cones are placed along the road.
Trips & Routes

The Scenic Drive In Texas That Runs Right Near The Charming Small Town Of Rocksprings

The Twisted Sisters is a 100-mile scenic drive in Texas Hill Country known for its beautiful views and challenging curves.

by Katie Lawrence
on Aug 31
Aerial view of a winding road surrounded by green hills and clear blue sky. A motorcycle is seen on the road.