16 Outstanding Weekend Getaways from Dallas to Spice up Your Weekends!
Discover the top places to visit in Texas and the surrounding States.
The very best weekend getaways from Dallas, 1h30 to 4h30 hours driving from the city.
Do you think that there isn’t much to see in the Dallas surroundings? Think twice.
If your idea of embarking on an amazing weekend trip from Dallas always includes hopping on an airplane, you might want to peek into this post.
Get new ideas on short trips from the city. Discover the best weekend getaways from Dallas within a 4h30 driving distance, perfect for a 2-day mini vacation.
Explore Texas and surrounding states. Be awed by underrated hidden gems less than a tank of gas away from you.
Looking for day trips as well? Willing to drive a little further to reach even more stunning places?
Check all of our road travel ideas from Dallas and prepare to be amazed by the wonderful things out there waiting to be discovered by you!
1. Glen Rose, TX
Step on authentic dinosaur tracks and experience a world-class safari experience.
Distance: 75 miles/ 1 h 20 min from Dallas
Dinosaur Valley State Park
Explore Dinosaur Valley State Park, a beautiful scenic natural area around the crystal-clear Paluxy River.
Look for real Dinosaur footprints along the riverbed, hike up to 20 miles of trails, fish, or cool off in the water.
The state park offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained for a whole day and is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas.
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
The following morning, head to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center and take the 7.2-mile Gosdin Scenic Drive or a guided safari tour to see and feed the animals.
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is a top-notch safari-style drive-thru zoo in Texas and is worth the drive by itself.
Big Rocks Park
Top off with a stop at the Big Rocks Park, on the Paluxy River.
It is a beautiful and free park, featuring giant rocks and a breathtaking landscape.
Places to Stay in Glen Rose
Inn on The River and Best Western Dinosaur Valley Inn & Suites are top-rated hotel alternatives in Glen Rose.
You can also camp at Dinosaur Valley State Park. Or spend the night in a cabin inside Fossil Rim Wildlife Center.
Photo Credits: Dinosaur Track – Flickr mcdlttx, Giraffe Wasif Malik.
2. Davis, OK
The largest waterfall in Oklahoma, a rustic safari, and Chickasaw tribal culture.
Distance: 130 miles/ 2 h 00 min from Dallas
Arbuckle Wilderness
Head to neighboring Oklahoma to visit the gorgeous Turner Falls State Park and its beautiful surroundings.
Start at Arbuckle Wilderness Park, a rustic drive-through style safari.
Go in the early morning to avoid the crowds and be corralled by the animals. Or even have some of them snooping inside your car.
Be eventually spat by a llama (really).
Turner Falls & Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies
Head then to Turner Falls.
Make sure to stop by Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies on your way there to try their delicious fried pies, a local staple.
At Turner Falls, the centerpiece is a stunning 77 ft waterfall – the state’s largest waterfall.
The park is also home to great trails, a zip-line, caves, and a rock castle.
Chickasaw Cultural Center & Chickasaw National Recreation Area
On the following day, explore the Chickasaw area, about 30 minutes away from Turner Falls.
Watch a (free) stomp dance performance at Chickasaw Cultural Center and explore a native American tribe, the Chickasha Inchokka’ Traditional Village.
Head then to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area for bison watching, hiking, and enjoying beautiful waterfalls – such as gorgeous Little Niagara Falls.
Places to Stay near Turner Falls
Cedarvale Cabins at Turner Falls is your best bet if you want to be in the middle of the action and look for a rustic experience in the woods.
Echo Canyon Spa Resort is another amazing (and more upscale) option, and it is right between all of the attractions mentioned here.
Photo Credit: Chickasaw Warrior– Flickr Sheila Scarborough
3. Salado, TX
Charming small-town, B&Bs, artsy vibe, and top-rated brewery and winery.
Distance: 144 miles/ 2 h 10 min from Dallas
If you are an artsy type or history buff and look for a place not too far to chill out, you’ll love Salado.
Only 2h 30m from Dallas, the charming small town is the perfect weekend getaway from Dallas.
Constantly featured as one of the most charming small towns in Texas by several publications, Salado is home to a historic and charming main street. To an ebullient artistic community. And is surrounded by beautiful nature.
Royal Street District
On Salado’s trendy Royal Street District, you can watch artists creating amazing glass and pottery pieces at Salado Glassworks and Ro Shaw Clay Studio.
Or get your hands dirty and create your own masterpiece at the classes offered by both studios.
Nearby Barrow Brewing Company offers locally crafted beer and live-music on selected weekend days.
If you have kids in tow (or a sweet tooth), the Sugar Shack candy store is a cool stop in the area.
Main Street
On the Main Street area, stroll through boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries.
Taste authentic Texas wine at Salado Winery Co‘s rustic and lovely tasting room.
Have dinner at Barton House, an 150+ years old restaurant in a historic house with a cozy atmosphere.
Chalk Ridge Falls Park
The Salado surroundings hide a true Texas nature gem, Chalk Ridge Falls Park. A must-visit destination only a short 15-minute drive away.
It features a beautiful small waterfall, crystal-clear swimming holes, a rustic suspension bridge, and hiking trails.
Places to Stay in Salado
To soak into the small-town vibe, stay in one of Salado’s bed and breakfasts.
The historic Stagecoach Inn is a neat option.
It’s the oldest continuously operating hotel in Texas and was once a stop along the historic Chisholm Trail – a post-Civil War cattle trail between Texas and Kansas.
The Vineyard at Florence is another outstanding alternative near Salado.
It is only a short drive from the city and offers a unique stay, with beautiful and cozy rooms surrounded by vineyards and the option to indulge in a wine tasting.
4. Jefferson, TX
Visit a historic haunted town, tour a cypress swamp, maybe, spot an alligator!
Distance: 167 miles/ 2 h 30 min from Dallas
Jefferson is a charming and beautiful small town full of 1800’s history, considered the most haunted place in Texas.
It is only 15 minutes away from the idyllic Caddo Lake State Park, home to the only natural lake in Texas and the world’s largest Bald Cypress Forest.
And also on the route of the Piney Woods Wine Trail.
One of my favorite weekend getaways from Dallas, Jefferson offers tons of inspiring things to do and is a must-visit travel destination in East Texas.
Jefferson
In Jefferson, stay in a historic B&B, stroll through antique shops and historic buildings.
Eat at Joseph’s Riverport Barbecue, voted as one of the best barbecue joints in Texas.
Get bold and take a Historical Ghost Walk at night or tour The Grove, a historical home said to be the most haunted place in Texas.
If you are a fan of the ‘Gone with the Wind’ movie, visit the curious Gone with the Wind museum.
Caddo Lake
At nearby Caddo Lake, take a boat tour to explore the picturesque cypress swamp and maybe spot an alligator!
Or head to gorgeous Caddo Lake State Park, an amazing place for paddling, hiking, and fishing.
For lunch with a (jaw-dropping) view, stop by at Riverbend Restaurant on Caddo Lake.
Piney Woods Wine Trail & Daingerfield State Park
Jefferson is also a short drive away from top-rated Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard and Winery, part of the Pine Woods Wine Trail.
There you can taste wines in their inviting tasting room, have dinner and listen to live music on selected weekend nights.
You can also combine your visit to Jefferson with gorgeous Daingerfield State Park.
Check here a complete itinerary through East Texas, featuring Jefferson, Caddo Lake, Piney Woods Wine Trail, and Daingerfield State Park.
Places to Stay in Jefferson
Jefferson is considered the Bed & Breakfast Capital of Texas, and staying in one of them is the most authentic way to explore the town.
Kennedy Manor B&B, The Steamboat Inn, White Oak Manor B&B, and Delta Street Inn are some of Jefferson’s best lodging options, offering great location and superb amenities.
Photo Credits: The Grove Haunted House – Jefferson, TX Renelibrary [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], Freeman Plantation – Clarence Bulger [Public domain]; Caddo Lake – Flickr Maciej Kraus, Jefferson General Store – Flickr Nicolas Henderson, Caddo Lake Canoe – Flickr _Gaspard_ , Caddo Lake Cypress Forest – Larry D. Moore [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)]
5. Beavers Bend, OK
Cross the State line and visit the nature lover's paradise in Oklahoma.
Distance: 180 miles/ 3 h 00 min from Dallas
Head to one of Oklahoma’s most beautiful nature spots, Beavers Bend State Park. Rent a cabin and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Beavers Bend is a place to disconnect from reality and enjoy nature at its finest. And one of the most popular weekend getaways from Dallas among locals.
Activities
Beavers Bend is a nature lovers’ paradise.
The best way to explore the park is by foot through the tons of amazing trails – stop by the visitors center and grab a map.
My favorite trail at Beavers Bend is Friends Trail. It takes you through a gorgeous wooded area towards a river stream, with beautiful cascades and stunning views along the way.
Paddling, fly fishing, and horseback riding are other popular activities in the area.
And Rugaru Adventures offers a zipline course with scenic views and heights up to 60ft from the floor!
If you have kids in tow, make sure to stop by Hochatown Petting Zoo to feed the animals. It is a wildlife rehabilitation site, both fun and educative.
Local Tastes
Stop at local Girls Gone Wine for wine tasting.
Try Whip-Poor-Will Cabins & Original Fudge Factory homemade fudges.
For pizza, head to Grateful Head Pizza Oven & Tap Room.
Mountain Fork Brewery is another must-visit, with a cool outdoor patio featuring games and live music.
Places to Stay near Beavers Bend State Park
Your best bet to spend an unforgettable weekend at Beavers Bend State Park is to rent a cabin.
Most offer firepits, hot tubs, and other amenities and are a destination in themselves.
There are many available options, and I usually book my stays through Booking.com.
6. Colorado Bend State Park/ Gorman Falls, TX
Explore one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas and tour wild caves.
Distance: 188 miles/ 3 h 20 min from Dallas
Colorado Bend State Park is an awe-inspiring natural setting.
Crossed by the Colorado River, it is home to over 400 underground caves. And to Gorman Falls, a gorgeous cascade waterfall shaped by unique travertine formations.
It is one of the top weekend getaways from Dallas, especially for nature lovers.
Gorman Falls
Hike Gorman Falls Trail on your own or through a guided ranger-led tour. A 3-mile out and back trail leading to the stunning Gorman Falls, a set of 3 gorgeous waterfalls in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
Spicewood Springs is another amazing trail option, taking you through spring feed pools, cascades, and scenic overlooks.
Cave Tour
Go caving! Take a cave tour to explore caves in their nature state.
There are different options to choose from, for all levels and ages.
Other Things to Do at Colorado Bend State Park
Colorado Bend also offers 35 miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing, and camping sites.
It’s a popular State Park, so make reservations in advance.
7. Austin, TX
One of the top U.S. destinations and the live music capital of the world.
Distance: 195 miles/ 3 h 00 min from Dallas
Considered the second-best place to visit in the US, Austin is Texas’s capital and the state’s most vibrant big city.
It is only 3 hours away and offers gastronomy, music, culture, and outdoors, making it the perfect weekend getaway from Dallas.
Here you find a complete weekend itinerary to the city. Follow below some of the highlights:
Barton Creek and Barton Springs
Kick-off early in the day at Zilker Park.
Take a dip into Barton Springs, a gorgeous and giant natural spring feed pool.
Walk to the nearby Zilker Park Boat Rentals. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddle and go paddling through the beautiful Barton Creek and Colorado River.
SoCo and Bat Watching
For lunch, head to Franklin BBQ considered the best BBQ joint in Texas.
Afterward, head to SoCo, the quirkiest part of Congress Avenue, and understand a little better the motto “keep Austin weird.” Stroll through the unique shops, grab a treat at Amy’s Ice Cream and take a snapshot at the famous “I love you so much” mural.
Finish your walk at the Congress Avenue Bridge for a bat-watching experience.
From March to October, the largest urban colony of bats in North America lives under this bridge. Every day at sunset, 1.5 million bats leave their nests in search of food.
An amazing and unique spectacle best experienced from a boat in the Colorado River – staying on the bridge or laying on the green area right under it are other (free) options.
Nightlife in Austin
Not ready to call it a day yet?
Go to the iconic 6th Street or trendy historic Rainey Street to enjoy Austin’s vibrant nightlife and world-famous live music scene.
Gospel Brunch
On Sundays, experience an authentic Gospel Brunch at Stubbs Bar-B-Q (make reservations in advance).
Or head to Rainey’s St and try the lively Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden brunch, considered one of Austin’s essential brunch spots.
Texas State Capitol
Top off with a free tour at the nearby imposing Texas State Capitol.
Explore the majestic building and beautiful gardens. Learn more about Texas history and politics and step on the Texas Senate and House of Representative Chambers.
Places to Stay in Austin
The Driskill is the most iconic hotel in Austin, with a gorgeous and imposing historic facade. And staying there leaves you right in the middle of the action.
Hotel Zaza Austin and Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt are other top-rated well-located options.
For a luxury alternative, you cannot go wrong with Four Seasons Austin Hotel.
For the ultimate resort experience in the Texas Hill Country, choose the Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa, only 30 minutes from the city.
8. Marble Falls, TX
Explore a cave, a canyon, a natural pool, and a vineyard. And live a crossroad adventure!
Distance: 208 miles/ 3 h 20 min from Dallas
Marble Falls is your base to discover the beautiful nature spots nestled in this part of the Texas Hill Country.
One of the top weekend getaways from Dallas, featuring two of my favorite state parks to visit in Texas.
Colorado River Canyon
Take a scenic cruise or kayak adventure along the Colorado River Canyon on Lake Buchanan.
Navigate through waterfalls, cliffs, and wildlife. In winter, maybe spot a bald eagle.
Longhorn Caverns & Inks Lake State Park
Explore two amazing State Parks in one single trip: Longhorn Caverns and Inks Lake State Park.
At Longhorn Caverns, take a guided walking tour to see magnificent cave formations, learn historical tales and experience complete darkness.
At Inks Lake, go swimming or cliff-jumping at magnificent Devil’s Waterhole. Or hiking through the beautiful natural surroundings.
Krause Springs & Other Things to Do near Marble Falls
Perissos Vineyard and Winery is a must-visit in the area and only a few minutes away from Longhorn Caverns.
Krause Springs is among Texas’s top swimming holes and the perfect place for a splash.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is an amazing place for hiking.
And Hidden Falls Adventure Park the place to go for an unforgettable crossroad adventure.
Photo Credits: Hidden Falls Adventure Park – Flickr Nan Palmero , Lake Buchanan aerial view – NASA Earth Observatory; Allen, Jesse; Simmon, Robert [Public domain], Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge –
Flickr U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters, Lake Buchanan – Flickr John W. Schulze.
9. Wimberley, TX
Texas' most charming small town, top swimming holes, and an award-winning winery.
Distance: 230 miles/ 3 h 30 min from Dallas
Wimberley is absolutely gorgeous.
The tiny and charming small town right in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, which I discovered by accident taking a detour (!), is among my favorite weekend getaways from Dallas
Things to Do in Wimberley
Have brunch at colorful Wimberley Cafe.
Stroll through unique artisan and native shops at the lively and lovely Wimberley’s Town Square.
Then grab a treat at the Wooden Spoon and enjoy it at their outdoor patio overlooking the Blanco River.
For dining, try the modern and top-rated Leaning Pear.
Or treat yourself with pizza and a beer at Community’s Pizza and Beer Garden’s outdoor patio, featuring a play area and, eventually, live music.
Blue Hole Regional Park & Jacobs Well
In town, go rope jumping into the crystalline waters of Cypress Creek at the famous Blue Hole Regional Park.
Jacob’s Well, only a short 15-minute drive from Wimberley, is another must-visit swimming hole around.
One of the most beautiful and unique swimming holes in Texas, Jacobs Well is formed by underwater caves and is known for cliff-jumping.
It is also a beautiful nature preserve ideal for nature walks.
Other places to visit near Wimberley
Wimberley Zipline Adventures offers a unique way to enjoy the Texas Hill Country from the top.
Cypress Falls Swimming Hole is an amazing place for paddling.
And The Shady Llama is an amazing beer patio where you can eventually see llamas and donkeys roaming around!
RESERVATIONS
The swimming holes require reservations in advance and fill up pretty quick. Make your reservations through their website:
Wimberley Blue Hole
Jacob’s Well
10. Dripping Springs, TX
Amazing nature spots, stunning swimming holes and stargazing.
Distance: 230 miles/ 3 h 40 min from Dallas
Enjoy nature at its finest in this amazing part of the Texas Hill Country.
Dripping Springs is a tiny Texas town within a short driving distance from Pedernales Falls State Park and Hamilton Pool.
And the perfect base to explore the area.
Hamilton Pool
Hamilton Pool Preserve is home to one of the most beautiful swimming holes in the USA.
The hike to the Hamilton Pool swimming hole is short but steep. And rewards you with jaw-dropping views and pristine waters to cool off in the summer.
Swimming is not always allowed, though – it depends on the water bacteria levels.
Check their website for current conditions.
Westcave Preserve
Less than 5 minutes away from Hamilton Pool, you will find the terrific Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center.
The preserve is home to one of Texas’s most well-kept secrets, an awe-inspiring grotto nestled in a canyon.
You can visit the grotto through a beautiful guided nature walk, framed by tall trees, canyon walls, and superb views of the Pedernales River.
Pedernales Falls
Pedernales Falls State Park offers is one of Texas’s most beautiful State Parks.
The landscape, marked by natural pools and cascades is gorgeous.
It is a place for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and swimming.
And, if you are into camping, an amazing alternative to Dripping Springs to explore the area.
RESERVATIONS
The activities mentioned above require reservations in advance and fill up pretty quick. Make your reservations through their website:
Hamilton Pool
Westcave Preserve
Pedernales Falls State Park.
11. Houston, TX
To infinity...and beyond: NASA and surroundings.
Distance: 240 miles/ 3 h 30 min from Dallas
Visit the Space Center Houston (aka NASA Houston).
Explore the interactive exhibition, touch a real piece of the moon and take the 2 tram tours offered – included in admission price. They take you straight into the actual NASA and should be the very reason of your visit. One of them goes to the astronaut training facility, Johnson Space Center. The other one takes you into the NASA Mission Control, where you can see in person the controlling room from where Apollo 13 was brought back to earth – ‘Houston, we have a problem.’
Head then to the nearby Kemah Boardwalk, an authentic old-school American amusement park and restaurant area sat on a pier by the ocean.
Next morning, dig into Texas history at the San Jacinto Monument, raised on the grounds of the San Jacinto Battle, were Texas conquered its independence from Mexico. Go up the monument for panoramic views.
Or drive around 40 minutes to reach Galveston, on the Texas Coast. Not my favorite beach, but a cool place to explore. Take a stroll at Pier Pleasure, have a seafood lunch overlooking the ocean and explore the charming historic district. Or spend a day at Moody Gardens, one of Texas’ most famous amusement parks.
Insider Tips
(1) Take the tram tours first thing you arrive at the Houston Space Center. Lines tend to get huge. Each tour takes about 90 minutes, and both include a final stop at the Saturn V Facility, where you can see the largest rocket ever flown – you can skip this stop the second time by staying in the tram.
(2) Consider staying at the South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center. It close to the attractions mentioned above, in a nice area by the water channels and offers a beautiful resort style swimming pool
12. Crater of Diamonds State Park, AR
Dig for diamonds in the only active mine in North America.
Distance: 234 miles/ 3 h 45 min from Dallas
Visit the unique Crater of Diamonds State Park for an Indiana Jones-style adventure.
Pair it with a stay in the Diamonds Old West Cabins thematic hotel, and you’ll assure memories your kids will treasure forever.
Crater of Diamonds State Park
Start at the Crater of Diamonds State Park.
Dig in the dirt at the only active diamond mine in North America.
It is said that at least one small diamond is found every day in the park!
But in case it is not your lucky day, you will still have a lot of fun pretending to be a gold miner and having your findings identified by an expert on your way out.
Diamonds Old West Cabin
After some serious digging, head to the Diamonds Old West Cabins to enjoy the amenities.
It is a straightforward hotel – and not perfect at all, be aware – but the old west thematic cabins, the kids’ infrastructure, and activities make it a no-brainer for the ones with children on the tow.
Giant inflatable, archery, corn house, pirate ship playground, pedal kart, foam party (weather permitting), tepees with bonfires to make s’mores… You name it.
Kids will have a blast.
Daisy State Park
The next morning explore the scenic Daisy State Park on Lake Greeson.
Hike Daisy Creek Trail, an easy 0.75-mile trail that takes you through a wooded area, Daisy creek, and Lake Greeson.
Or, for adrenaline seekers, take the popular Bear Creek Cycle Trail, a 37 miles trail open to ATVs.
For water sports, head to the neighboring Self Creek Lodging and Marina to rent a kayak, stand-up paddle, or jet ski and explore Lake Greeson.
Texarkana
On your way back to Dallas, stop by Texarkana.
Eat at Naaman’s Barbecue, an old-school barbecue joint with some character.
Then head to Texarkana’s courthouse to take a snapshot at the sign that marks the line between Texas and Arkansas – yes, the city is divided between the two states, thus the name.
13. Gruene, TX
Step on Texas' oldest dance hall, explore the largest cave system in-state, tour the Canyon Lake Gorge and the crystal-clear Guadalupe River.
Distance: 240 miles/ 3 h 40 min from Dallas
Stroll through Gruene’s Historic District to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Stop by the quaint Gruene’s General store to shop for local products, gifts and treats. Grab a glass of Texan wine at The Grapevine wine bar and tasting room and enjoy live music at their outdoor area. Eat at the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar, under Gruene’s landmark water tower and overlooking the beautiful Guadalupe River. Head then to Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, for live country music in an authentic cowboy atmosphere.
In the following day explore the beautiful outdoors. Take a tubing or rafting trip through the Guadalupe River while you enjoy the beautiful scenery. Visit the nearby Natural Bridge Caverns, the largest cave system in Texas. Explore the neighboring Canyon Lake Dam Area, which offers short trails as well as a guided tour through the beautiful Canyon Lake Gorge (must be reserved in advance).
14. Fredericksburg and Enchanted Rock, TX
Hike the unique Enchanted Rock to the top of the Texas Hill Country and enjoy Fredericksburg wineries and charming small-town vibe.
Distance: 260 miles/ 4 h 10 min from Dallas
If you love nature, Enchanted Rock worth the trip by itself. If you are into wine, Fredericksburg is a must.
If you enjoy both, you’re in paradise! Fredericksburg is a lively German heritage town in the heart of the Texas Hill country, surrounded by nature and award-winning wineries. Enchanted Rock is one of the top and most unique hiking experiences in Texas.
In Fredericksburg, start off with brunch at the Old German Bakery and Restaurant. Stroll down lively Main Street to check on charming boutiques and unique shops. Stop by Pontotoc Vineyard Weingarten‘ to taste wine at their rustic and intimate patio. Then take a slight detour and walk a few blocks off Main Street to reach Lost Draw Cellars, an award-winning winery right in the heart of Fredericksburg.
On Saturdays, hop on the 290 Wine Shuttle to explore over a dozen of Texas wineries along Wine Road 290. Grape Creek Vineyards is not to be missed. If you drive there on your own, make sure to include a stop at Signor Vineyards as well.
For free live music, head to the neighboring tiny town of Luckenbach – just off Hwy 290. For an authentic Germany dinner, try Otto’s German Bistro. Das Peach Haus is another amazing place to visit in town. A peach farm and culinary school with a rustic store and beautiful outdoors, offering wine tastings as well.
Enchanted Rock is just outside Fredericksburg (about 20 min away). It’s huge pink granite dome right in the middle of the gorgeous Texas Hill country. A unique geologic formation, once part of a large underground pool of magma, which erupted from down the earth’s surface millions of years ago. A jaw-dropping spot for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
At Enchanted Rock, hike Summit Trail for amazing views. It’s a short but steep trail that requires moderate effort. Avoid high temperature days: the hiking can be extenuating under those conditions (but under the right conditions it is suitable even for the ones with little kids in tow). Check the trail conditions ahead and make reservations online in advance to avoid being turned away, as the number of daily visitors is limited and unexpected closures can happen depending on weather conditions.
Photo Credits: Winery – Flickr Nan Palmero , Luckenbach Truck – Flickr Mobilus In Mobili .
15. San Antonio, TX
One of the world's top destinations according to Travel+Leisure and National Geographic, right in Texas!
Distance: 274 miles/ 4 h 20 min from Dallas
From the most visited tourist attractions in Texas such as The Alamo and the Riverwalk to hidden gems off the beaten path as the Pearl District and the San Antonio Missions tour, San Antonio offer amazing things to do to entertain you for quite a while.
Take a look into this post to find out how to explore San Antonio in one weekend, covering the very best attractions to make the most of your time in the city! Discover San Antonio must-sees, local favorites and offbeat places, so you don’t miss out on anything.
16. Hot Springs, AR
Soak into hot springs, hike and stroll through a charming Historic District.
Distance: 274 miles/ 4 h 20 min from Dallas
Soak into one of the oldest and best natural hot springs in the U.S., in the neighboring state of Arkansas. The Hot Springs National Park is nestled in the gorgeous Ouachita Mountains.
It is home to 47 naturally heated springs and over 20 miles of hiking trails, an outdoorsy paradise. It has also a charming historic district, perfect for a weekend getaway.
At the Hot Springs Historic District, stroll through shops, cafes and restaurants. Stop by the beautiful hot water cascade in the downtown area. Check out the historic Arlington Hotel, which has hosted famous guests, from American Presidents to Al Capone – sit at their bar and have a drink while listening to jazz.
Tour the Bathhouse Row, a National Historic Landmark lined with eight historic bathhouses from the 19th and 20th centuries. Visit Fordyce Bathhouse, the largest of them, fully restored and converted into a museum. Head to one of the only ones still operating, Buckstaff Baths, to soak into natural hot springs waters (visitors must be 10 years old or older). Walk the Grand Promenade, a short paved trail just behind Bathhouse Row, with great views of downtown and hot springs steams.
Hike 1.7-mile Hot Spring Mountain Trail towards Hot Springs Mountain Tower. Take the elevator to the 216-ft tall observation deck for panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains vast and lush landscape.
Grab a bite and taste local beer crafted with thermal spring waters (!) at Superior Bathhouse Brewery.
Visit nearby Anthony Chapel, at Garvan Woodland Gardens. An awe-inspiring structure with high ceilings made of native wood and glass, merging into the woods (call in advance to confirm if it’s open to the public in the day of your visit).
Summing Up
Superb Weekend Travel Destinations in Texas and Surroundings
The Dallas surroundings are absolutely amazing and offer tons of weekend travel opportunities – no need to wait for the next long vacation to unwind.
Explore! There is beauty everywhere. You only need to know where to look for that.
16 Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas
Here we covered 16 of the best weekend travel destinations in Texas and its surroundings.
Choose your favorites, create your own Texas bucket list and allow yourself to enjoy the best of the Lone Star State.
Which is your favorite weekend escape from Dallas? Leave a comment below.
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