Texas is a huge state, which means there are various areas and places that you may wish to visit for a quick weekend getaway. In every corner of this state you will find the ideal weekend getaway for you to enjoy.
Depending on what you are looking for, you will be able to find it in Texas. From big cities to mountains, beaches and small towns. There is a lot to see and enjoy, if you are searching for the perfect mini break.
In this article, we have found the top 19 amazing weekend getaways that you can find in Texas(see also: Top 14 Treehouses You Can Rent In Texas). Discover your next Texas mini break here!
Galveston
Galveston is seen as the perfect beach getaway and has become a hot post for many summer vacations. With its tranquil surf, expansive sandy beaches, and energetic boardwalk, this incredible beach location has been enticing tourists for decades.
There are various beaches you can enjoy during your time here.
If that wasn’t enough, Galveston is also considered one of the most romantic areas and gateways that you can find in Texas as well.
Get your thrills at the waterfront amusement park Historic Pleasure Pier, or take in the vibrant Victorian architecture of the Strand Historic District.
If you are a history buff, then why not learn more about the local history at one of the numerous nearby museums that explore topics like oil drilling and the Wild West of America.
Also, why not visit the glass towers at Moody Gardens. These include the Rainforest Pyramid, the Discovery Pyramid and the Aquarium Pyramid. This is a popular tourist destination for anyone that comes to visit Galveston.
You can learn all about these natural wanderers and how they came to be.
Fort Worth
Don’t let Fort Worth’s more well-known neighbor, Dallas, cast a shadow over this dazzling city. You might not think of Fort Worth when you picture weekend getaways in Texas. However, this area should be on your list of places to visit.
Witness a cattle drive at the Fort Worth Stockyards, and explore the National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame to learn about the Wild West’s heroines. After that, visit the Log Cabin Village to get a taste of life in nineteenth-century Texas.
However, Fort Worth is home to more than just the Wild West and cowboys. There are lots of beautiful art museums to explore as well. These include The Amon Carter Museum of American Art, The Kimbell, and The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.
San Antonio
San Antonio, is located in the center of Texas. It is seen as one of the greatest weekends getaways in the state, since it is a well-known and loved cultural area. You can find a brilliant fusion of various cultures including American, Spanish, and Mexican.
Spend your weekend in San Antonio strolling and shopping along the city’s famous River Walk. Or you may want to visit Mission Trail’s 18th-century buildings. This is alongside dining on delicious Mexican food at the Historic Market Square.
You can purchase mementos to take home due to the city’s abundance of art galleries and antique shops that display locally crafted paintings and traditional pottery.
However, if you are a more physical person, you may want to try one of the many hiking trails that San Antonio offers. There are also gorgeous state parks that can keep you busy all weekend.
Corpus Christi
In Corpus Christi, beautiful and pristine white sand beaches can be found alongside a busy downtown area. In fact, Corpus Christi, is protected by a harbor and surrounded by the lovely Padre Island.
Visit memorials to the beloved singer Selena, or jump aboard a World War II aircraft carrier that has been transformed into a floating museum at the USS Lexington. Also, why not trek through stunning oceanfront scenery at the Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve.
Once you’ve seen some local wildlife, have a look at the local plants as well! There are 180 acres of roses, orchids, cacti, and other plant species, both indigenous and non-native. These are found at the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center.
Marfa
This quirky, wacky town in West Texas offers a wealth of art, culture, and stories. Marfa is a small town far away from any cities. It is most known for its wild legends about bizarre, unexplainable lights that flicker across the sky.
Numerous residents and tourists have both reported seeing this occurrence since the 1800s.
Although there are many possibilities, no one has pinpointed the exact cause. Get a ticket and try to see them for yourself at the annual Marfa Lights Festival.
Nevertheless, even if you don’t come for the lights, you may simply enjoy the eccentric culture that makes Marfa so lovable. Window-shop at a flawless replica Prada store on the side of a peaceful highway, and watch desert sunsets.
Jefferson
Jefferson, a little spot on the map, which happens to be located 30 minutes from the Louisiana border. This is another small town which genuinely appreciates the relaxed way of life. Visitors have said It feels a bit like going back in time when entering this village.
Historical highlights include the 1866 Jefferson Playhouse, which is still performing today! Also consider the 1897 Howe Truss Bridge, the nation’s last train trestle bridge.
After you’ve finished admiring the architecture, visit the Jefferson Ordnance Magazine to see one of the remaining Civil War artifacts. Then go to the Jefferson General Store to buy penny candies and 5-cent coffee. Or why not visit the “Gone With the Wind” Museum.
As a result, if you are searching for a quieter gateway that isn’t in a big city, you may want to consider going to Jefferson.
Houston
The largest city in Texas is also home to some of the state’s most popular attractions. Hence, it is a great weekend getaway.
On your weekend trip to Houston, eat at Ninfa’s on Navigation, the restaurant where fajitas were originally created. Then look around the vintage stores and trendy coffee shops in the Montrose district.
In the trendiest spot in the city, you may experience what it’s like to launch into orbit. This is done by riding in a simulator at Space Center Houston, where you can also touch a piece of Mars.
Additionally, there are wonderful beaches, holding trials and state parks that offer you even more activities to do during your short time here.
You won’t get bored during your stay in Houston.
Conroe
With that being said, if you don’t want to deal with a busy city like Houston, then Conroe may be a better option for you. Yet it is still close to Houston if you want to pop over one day.
Conroe acts as a great entry point to various local state parks and national parks. There are miles of peaceful, shaded trails in both the Sam Houston National Forest and the W. G. Jones State Forest.
Here you may hike, cycle, picnic, and observe birds.
Additionally, you may tour Conroe’s historic downtown and enjoy local wines there. This area is famed for its original brick storefronts constructed during the early 1900s oil boom.
Dallas
If you are searching for a weekend getaway during the fall, then you should consider going to Dallas. There are a lot of areas surrounding it, but you should also spend some time exploring Dallas itself.
During your weekend in Dallas, climb Reunion Tower for 360-degree views of the city. However, if you are bringing all your family, you could have a picnic and play at urban Klyde Warren Park.
Don’t forget to snap photos in front of spectacular Dallas murals, and discover works of art from 5,000 years ago at the Dallas Museum of Art.
There are many award-winning restaurants and cafés that you should make sure you stop by. Although, if you want to spend more time outdoors during your getaway, then Dallas has gorgeous hiking trails to complete, and beaches that you can visit.
Port Aransas On Mustang Island
On Mustang Island, Port Aransas has a beach where people go to swim, surf, and look for seashells. In addition to that, there are also a few lovely nature trails to take part in.
Go bird watching at Padre Island National Seashore, observe dolphins in Roberts Point Park, or take a stroll through Port Aransas Nature Preserve while keeping an eye out for the resident rare birds and enormous alligators.
This is the perfect spot for animal lovers.
However, why not spend some time learning more about Port Aransas by visiting their museum and art museums.
Wimberley
Wimberley, a community of just over 3,000 people tucked away in the Hill Country, is an accessible weekend getaway from San Antonio and Austin. Wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home there.
There are lots of things that you can partake in. At Wimberley ZipLine Adventures, soar above the Central Texas woodlands. While at Jacob’s Well, plunge into pristine natural springs.
Then there are the Wimberley Glass Works, where you can see live glass blowing demonstrations.
During your time at Wimberley, you can stay in a lovely cabin and really enjoy nature.
During the warmer months, Blue Hole Regional Park is a charming swimming location with rope swings, picnic areas, and hiking paths where you could easily spend your entire weekend.
Fredericksburg
With its combination of German culture, stunning architecture, and numerous top-notch wines, Fredericksburg is a truly relaxing vacation spot.
To make it even better, this German community is considered as another romantic gateway that can be found in Texas.
Therefore, instead of staying in a hotel, we advise choosing a gorgeous cabin instead. In Fredericksburg, there are lots of cozy cabins that you can select from.
A model of a German church from the 19th century, and picnic spots, are some highlights of this location. During Christmas, there is an abundance of Christmas lights, which makes Fredericksburg a must-see location.
The National Museum of the Pacific War has been praised as one of the best history museums. This is due to its captivating WWII storytelling and battle reenactments. Making this the ideal place for history lovers.
Finally, anyone who enjoys spending their weekends outside will enjoy climbing Enchanted Rock. This is very close to the town and gives you wonderful views.
Dripping Springs (Texas Hill Country)
Dripping Springs is one of those Texas getaways that makes you feel as though you’re in a completely different state. This is thanks to its wine, natural beauty, and quaint old streets. The flowing vineyards will take you to Italy, yet you are still in America.
One of the best places to visit in Texas (see also: The 28 Best Places To Visit In Texas (Including Some Great Vacation Spots))is the nearby Hamilton Pool Preserve. This happens to feature a 50-foot waterfall, a pleasant teal swimming hole, alongside hiking paths to explore the surrounding area.
Dripping Springs is undoubtedly one of the most amazing locations in the Texas Hill Country for a weekend escape.
Austin
Austin is a Texas weekend destination that has earned the distinction of being a true classic.
There is so much for you to partake in. Kayak on Lady Bird Lake, and stand on Mount Bonnell to get a bird’s-eye view of Austin. Also, why not try one of Austin’s hiking trails that can be completed by any experienced hiker.
Or you may want to relax on their beautiful beach.
Although, if you prefer to stay indoors, there are plenty of activities to choose from as well. Visit the Texas State Capitol, which houses the state legislature. You can also take in one of their many history, art, or science museums that are on offer.
Of course, you must experience the renowned Austin nightlife before leaving. We recommend heading to West 6th Street for live bands, eccentric pubs, and plenty of Texas barbecues.
You can never be bored on your weekend getaway in Austin, as there is so much for you to do!
Dinosaur Valley State Park
As you may already be aware, there are a lot of state parks all over America. However, when it comes to Texas, the Dinosaur Valley State Park is the ideal state park for families to enjoy together. You can hike on the same terrain that enormous monsters once walked on.
In the Paluxy riverbed of the park, which was formerly an old ocean, are preserved dinosaur footprints. You’ll feel as though you’ve stumbled across the Jurassic Park set while you mountain bike, hike, and paddle around the park.
Dinosaur Valley has 20 miles of trails and campsites in addition to its primary attractions. Hence, you can spend the entire weekend reliving the past. If you still have some time on your hands, spend a few hours in Glen Rose, a delightful town about 5 miles away.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon system in the nation, is around 120 miles long. It is also rich in biking, hiking, and equestrian riding paths. You can drive and simply take in the breathtaking sights. Or you can tough it and hike down to the bottom of the canyon yourself.
Palo Duro Creek Ranch provides guided Jeep excursions that carry you on a wild journey through the rough terrain. While also educating you on the history of the area.
There are numerous campsites tucked away in the canyon, from where you can see the Milky Way on clear evenings. This is another feature that makes this pick an amazing weekend getaway.
Luckenbach
Luckenbach is a fantastic weekend getaway spot, as this location is a refuge for country music. Luckenbach, a Hill Country village with only 13 residents, gets crowded on weekends due to live music events, dancing, and traditional Southern fun.
You might not need a full weekend to enjoy a quick tour of Luckenbach’s two main structures or attend one of their concerts. As a result, keep Luckenbach in mind when you are nearby and searching for a day trip or a pit stop during a road trip across Texas(see also: Top 12 Texas Road Trips To Tick Off Your Bucket List).
Although, there are museums you can visit if you do wish to spend an entire weekend here. Yet people often stay for the nightlife and the music and concerts that are put on.
Big Bend National Park
Big Bend doesn’t get nearly as many tourists as other US parks. Despite being one of the most amazing national parks, Texas has to offer. As a result, this ensures you can enjoy the breathtaking views and scenery without being crowded by lots of people.
There’s a lot to do here. Why not raft down a narrow river flanked by soaring red rocks in Santa Elena Canyon.
However, if you love to hike, why not reach Emory Peak, the highest point in the Chisos Mountains, or hike the strenuous South Rim Trail to be rewarded with expansive panoramic views.
It goes without saying that this is among the top camping weekend destinations in Texas. Ideal for anyone who loves to spend their time outdoors and hike.
South Padre Island
One of Texas’s more action-packed weekend getaways is South Padre Island. This is a tropical island famed for its spring break parties as well as its gorgeous white-sand beaches.
Some of the key highlights this island has to offer includes experiencing the tallest reverse-bungee in the world at Gravity Park. Then compete in the biggest outdoor laser tag tournament in Texas, and dance the night away at Clayton’s.
In fact, Clayton’s is the largest beach bar that can be found on the coast of Texas.
If you are an adventurer lover, then there’s even more for you to do. Why not parasail over Laguna Madre, and dive into a WWII shipwreck. Finally, you could spend the night beneath the stars at the South Padre Sand Dunes
Hence, if you want to stay busy on your weekend getaway then you can’t go wrong with South Padre Island, as there are plenty of things for you to do.
Conclusion
There is so much for you to do in Texas when you are searching for a great weekend getaway. Whether you want to spend time at the beach, observing history, hiking or taking part in other fun activities, there are so many options for you to choose from.
Each location we have suggested has a lot to offer, so you won’t get bored. Whether you want to go to a busy city or a quieter town, we have covered all the bases.
In this article, we have discussed the top 19 amazing weekend getaway areas spots found in Texas. You should consider all of these locations for an unforgettable weekend getaway.
