Texas is known for its larger-than-life reputation and in many ways, it lives up to that. The state’s vast size means its roads stretch for miles, with a drive from one border to another taking over 10 hours. Along the way, travelers encounter a remarkable variety of landscapes, climates and cultures. Despite its size, much of Texas enjoys mild weather throughout the year, especially outside the peak summer heat. With its rich history, multicultural roots and distinct character, Texas is an exceptional destination for a weekend getaway.
The Lone Star State offers an impressive array of experiences, from fields of wildflowers and rolling hills to lush forests, sprawling ranches, serene coastal escapes and dramatic desert mountains. With so much to choose from, narrowing down options for a weekend trip can be challenging. To make planning easier, this guide highlights 4 great weekend getaways from Texas, perfect for creating unforgettable memories.
1. Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg, TX is nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. This is a region boasting rolling hills, excellent wines and endless small-town charm. Known for its German heritage, you'll find small biergartens, wineries, cozy restaurants and art galleries throughout Fredericksburg and the hill country. Fredericksburg is located just about an hour and a half from Austin or just over an hour from San Antonio, making it an easy weekend getaway from either of those cities.
- Where to Stay: Inn on Barons Creek. Offering traditional rooms, suites and cottages, this Three Diamond inn packs in the Southern charm. A hot tub, heated outdoor pool and gorgeous surroundings make this a gorgeous laid-back escape.
- Suggested Activities:
- Explore the local wineries. Either enjoy a self-guided tour of some of the lovely wineries in the area or take the pressure off and enjoy a 3-location wine tasting and lunch that includes transportation, so you can take in the views stress-free.
- Take a Trolley Tour. The Fredericksburg City Trolley Tour is a great way to see the town and learn about its landmarks from a local guide. This is a great way to take in the sights and determine where you want to stop to spend more time, whether it's shopping, trying out one of the city's excellent restaurants or strolling few a museum or gallery.
2. San Antonio
Known as The Alamo City, San Antonio is one of the state's bigger cities, with its riverwalk, rich history and sparkling arts and culture scene making it a fantastic place to spend a long weekend. You'll find world-class restaurants, fabulous shopping and dining and natural beauty around every corner during your time in San Antonio.
- Where to Stay: Thompson San Antonio Riverwalk. Contemporary luxury meets style in this high-rise hotel right on the famous riverwalk. Enjoy the on-site night club, restaurant and spa, along with the comfort and attention to detail you expect from a Four Diamond property.
- Suggested Activities:
- See The Alamo. When in San Antonio, stopping by The Alamo is often considered to be a must-do, even if only to take in the famous facade and to brush up on the history-altering battle that happened there.
- Take a boat tour. While there are lots of boat tour options available, a favorite is this small group night tour, which includes transportation and takes you on a spellbinding cruise of the riverwalk from the water as it's illumined by the city lights.
3. Port Aransas
Located in a peaceful curve of the Texas Gulf Coast, Port Aransas is a city on Mustang Island, a barrier island connected by bridge and ferry to the mainland. Port Aransas is one of the Texas top places for a weekend getaway thanks to its cozy size and hometown charm. Most visitors opt to stay in Corpus Christi or Rockport and drive to Port Aransas for the day; accommodations on the island itself are very limited. No matter where you stay, you'll find some of the state's best seafood, stunning views and excellent deep-sea fishing.
- Where to Stay: Omni Corpus Christi Hotel. A scenic high-rise hotel right in the heart of Corpus Christi, the Omni offers lovely views of the marina, with Port Aransas being ust a few minutes away over the bridge.
- Suggested Activities:
- Take a Boat Tour. Like many islands, a boat offers one of the best Port Aransas experiences. Take a private dolphin watch and sunset boat tour and you'll see the Gulf Coast at its most picturesque.
- Go on a Scavenger Hunt. Port Aransas may not be large, but it's chock-full of small shops, boutique stores and galleries, as well as eateries to explore. Sign up for the Port Aransas Prowl Scavenger Hunt to make the most of a day of exploring and uncover a few hidden gems.
4. Marfa
Marfa is a far-West-Texas town, meaning it's not within easy driving distance of any major cities. Marfa is located way out in the desert, a three-hour drive from El Paso or about six and a half hours from Austin. Just when you think you've truly left civilization behind, you'll encounter one of the smallest personality-laden towns in the U.S. Despite its small size and unlikely location, you'll find fine dining and a thriving arts scene.
- Where to Stay: Hotel St. George. The Hotel St. George is located in the center of tiny Marfa and it offers an impressive contemporary-comfort vibe. The spacious rooms, on-site hotel and bar and pool and hot tub make it a lovely spot to relax after a long drive.
- Suggested Activities:
- See the Marfa Lights. The Marfa Lights are an unexplained phenomenon that draws UFO-seekers and night sky lovers together to try to get a glimpse of glowing orbs that have been known to light up the desert. A viewing area on Hwy 90 a few miles east of Marfa often fills up with visitors after the sun sets.
- Check out the art galleries. The Chinati Foundation is home to a 340-acre contemporary art museum encompassing a huge variety of exhibits on art, architecture and the natural environment. Countless other galleries and museums in town make great spots to stop, browse and shop.
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