Escape for the Day

The fun continues outside of the city limits. Here are some quick day adventure ideas located in nearby towns.

Fredericksburg The 75-minute drive to the quaint German settlement is worth the trip. Visit the charming houseware and gift shops on Main Street and stay the night in one of the town’s many bed and breakfasts.

Gruene Located between Austin and San Antonio, this tourist town was designated as an Historic Town by the State of Texas. It’s known for river tubing, live music, dining, and wine tasting.

Horseshoe Bay This is a resort and retirement community on Lake LBJ, only about 50 minutes northwest of Austin. It is famous for its golf courses and watersports on the lake.

Kerrville Less than 100 miles west of Austin, Kerrville is known for its historic buildings and the “Winter Texans” who visit. Located on the Guadalupe River, there is plenty of fishing and other water activities.

Lockhart This tiny, historic town 20 minutes south of Austin is the self-proclaimed barbecue capital of Texas and has the meat to prove it. Be sure to visit the four famous BBQ joints: Black’s, Chisholm Trail, Kreuz Market and Smitty’s Market.

Marble Falls Only a 45-minute drive northwest of Austin, this town is on Lake Marble Falls. While there, you will want to stop at the “World Famous” Blue Bonnet Cafe for Pie Happy Hour. Then visit Sweet Berry Farms and pick everything from berries to peaches to pumpkins.

New Braunfels Located about halfway between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels boasts plenty of outdoor water activities, including the original Schlitterbahn waterpark and floating the Comal River.

San Antonio Head about 90 minutes south on I-35 and you’ll hit the seventh largest city in the country. Take in the sites of The Alamo, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, San Antonio Zoo, SeaWorld, and the shops and restaurants on The Riverwalk.

San Marcos Just a short drive south of Austin, this small town is home to Texas State University and makes for a quick, refreshing day trip. Activities include glass-bottom boat tours of Spring Lake, floating the San Marcos River, and shopping at the Tanger Outlet Mall.

Wimberley A quick 30-minute drive south of Austin, this town is perfect for shopping at the quaint boutiques and floating the Blanco River, and don’t miss the Wimberley Pie Company.