Category: Weekend Getaways from Dallas

Category: Weekend Getaways from Dallas

Truly Outstanding Things to Do in San Antonio, Texas

Discover the best things to do in San Antonio, Texas most famous travel destination.

 2-day weekend travel itinerary in San Antonio, Texas, covering all must-sees and hidden gems!

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The Alamo, San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, one of the top travel destinations in the U.S.

San Antonio was considered in 2018  nothing less than one of the top 50 destinations in the world by Travel + Leisure Magazine and one of the 21 best places in the world to visit by National Geographic.

This charming Texas city transpires culture and history everywhere and is the ideal place to better understand the Texan cultural roots. San Antonio has a strong Mexican influence, that will make you sometimes forget that you are stepping on American territory. It is a unique and beautiful Texas town.

A lively place that totally deserves the attention it gets. It offers tons of amazing tourist attractions, as well as things to do off the beaten path.

Weekend travel itinerary in San Antonio: best things to do

The best way to experience the authentic San Antonio is mixing both the famous and under-the-radar awesome attractions.

This is what you’ll find in this post: a complete itinerary comprising San Antonio must-sees and unmissable hidden-gems, that will make your trip to San Antonio even more unique and special.

So, fasten your seat belts and follow me. Have the time of your life in San Antonio and unveil the best that one of the world’s top tourist destinations has to offer!

And if you are looking for more trip ideas in Texas and surrounding states, check our Trips from Dallas page.

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Weekend Travel Itinerary in San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio Texas Travel Itinerary - Day 1

1. Alamo and Mission San Jose

The Alamo

Start off your weekend travel itinerary in San Antonio at the world-famous and world-heritage site The Alamo. This is one of the most iconic places in San Antonio and the most popular tourist attraction in Texas.

The Alamo is the most well-preserved of all five Spanish missions in San Antonio. And it’s where the infamous Battle of the Alamo took place, almost two centuries ago.

It offers a free museum and movie which I recommend watching to put you into context and make your visit more enjoyable.  Make sure to enter the ancient church as well – lines tend to be long but move fast.

Menger Bar

On your way out of The Alamo, check out the Menger Bar, the oldest bar in Texas, just next door.

It was voted one of the top 10 Most Historic Bars in the U.S. and it’s the place where Roosevelt used to spend his time back in the Spanish-American War days.

For a treat, stop by the nearby Belgian Sweets – their cheesecake it to die for.

Mission San Jose

Head then to the less famous but not less interesting Mission San Jose.

Known as ‘The Queen of Missions”, Mission San Jose is the largest Spanish Mission of all five ones in San Antonio – and my favorite even over the Alamo! Which I know that is a very controversial statement but… I prefer less touristy attractions. 

There you can explore less crowded and more rustic grounds. Get charmed by a well-preserved Catholic Church from the 1700s. Step back in time exploring the remaining ruins of the places where the natives being catechized by the Spaniards used to live.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park Bike Tour

If time, weather and will allows, take San Antonio Missions National Historical Park Bike Tour, a different and active way to explore the area.

The five missions part of the National Park are about 2.5 miles apart from each other totaling about 15 miles. Check the map to plan your route.

2. King William Historic District

Weekend Getaway Dallas - San Antonio Texas

Head to King William District for lunch. Some excellent options there are the San Antonio classic Gunther House, overlooking the river, or Stella Public House, a charming and modern spot at the Blue Star Complex.

Then stroll through the streets to see historic preserved houses. Explore the Blue Star Complex, home to a local brewery overlooking the river – the Blue Star Brewery – and to several indie contemporary arts venues, shops and studios.

When you’re done, take a pleasant 20-minute walk along the river towards the Riverwalk, your next stop.

3. San Antonio Riverwalk

The Riverwalk is another San Antonio iconic attraction you can’t miss.

A lively and charming area full of restaurants, shops and entertainment. You can explore it walking along the river or taking a river boat cruise

Stop by La Villita Historic Arts Village  for alluring local shops and boutiques. Check on the Aztec Theater, the second most popular attraction in Texas, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and maybe watch a show. Step onto the oldest Riverwalk bar, the Esquire Tavern.

For fine dining, head to the charming Fig Tree restaurant and have dinner at their patio overlooking the river.

San Antonio Texas Weekend Travel Itinerary - Day 2

1. Pearl Weekend Market at Pearl District

On the second day of your weekend travel itinerary in San Antonio, check on the local and lively Pearl Weekend Market, at the trendy Pearl District. It takes place every Saturday and Sunday mornings in a charming and revitalized part of San Antonio around the iconic Pearl Brewery.

The area is lined up by boutiques, cafes, restaurants and a culinary school, and it is the place were locals hang out.

Make sure you come with an empty stomach to try the gourmet delicatessens sold by small and local vendors. Grab a bite, a beer or wine and sit by the grass to watch a live music free concert.

2. Historic Market Square

Historic Market Square San Antonio

Head then to the Pearl Weekend Market famous cousin, the Historic Market Square. It is a lively and colorful street market with Mexican roots. A more touristy but not less interesting experience, and one of the best things to do in San Antonio.

Browse souvenirs at the tons of local vendors indoors and outdoors. Sit by one of the several patios to sip an authentic margarita. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

One of the most famous restaurant options around is Mi Tierra. Lines are huge, so if you plan to have a late lunch there before heading back to Dallas, stop by first thing when you arrive to the Market Square to ask for a table. Then you’ll have plenty of time to take a walk and explore the area while you wait for your turn.

Summing Up

The number one travel destination in Texas

San Antonio is the number one touristic destination in Texas and one of the top places to visit in the whole world. If you haven’t been there yet, you’re missing out!

The main and most famous touristic attractions in San Antonio are the Alamo – the top 1 tourist attraction in Texas, the San Antonio River Walk and the Historic Market Square.

Places you shouldn’t miss while visiting the city and that you can explore wisely by following the recommendations in this post.

They are among the best things to do in San Antonio, but not the only ones!

Amazing things to do in San Antonio off the beaten path

No visit San Antonio would be complete without a stop at some of city’s top hidden gems: Mission San Jose, King William District, Blue Star Complex, Pearl Weekend Market and the historic Menger Bar, just to name a few.

Mixing traditional and under-the-radar attractions is the best way to experience the most authentic version of San Antonio and make you fall in love with the city.

So, go ahead and try the suggestions you found in this complete weekend travel itinerary in San Antonio. Then get back here and let me know your impressions.

If you happen to know of any amazing thing to do in San Antonio not covered in this post, please leave a comment below! I’ll love to hear your ideas and try them next time I’m in the city.

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Weekend Itinerary in Austin, TX

Top things to do and see in Austin in two days

Explore Austin must-see attractions and have the time of your life at the “Live Music Capital of the World”!

Austin, TX

Distance: 135 miles/ 3 h 00 min from Dallas

Kayak and SUP at the Colorado River in Austin, Texas.
Austin is one of the most amazing weekend travel destinations to visit from Dallas. A must-visit in Texas.

‘Keep Austin weird” is the city motto and summarizes well what to expect from your trip to Austin!

Austin is quirky, unique and offers abounding options in gastronomy, culture and outdoors, making it the perfect weekend getaway from Dallas.

Austin is also the “Live Music Capital of the World”, with live music every day, everywhere in the over 200 live music venues spread over the city.

You have so many options of things to do in Austin that it is easy to get lost on what to do to make the most of your short visit there. Here you will find my personal faves, must-visit places in Austin that will give you a good glimpse on the city’s life. 

Explore the ideas below, make your reservations and experience Austin at its best!

For more weekend travel ideas from Dallas, check this post. 

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DAY 1

1. Zilker Park and Barton Springs

Barton Springs at Zilker Park in Austin. Texas
One of the most popular swimming holes in Texas, Barton Springs is a spring fed pool and the perfect place to beat the Texas heat.

Start off your day at Barton Springs. Take a dip into this beautiful natural spring fed pool in the heart of the city, at Zilker Park. 

Yes, Barton Springs is crowded, especially during the weekends. But yes, it is worth it. And fun. And beautiful! One of the best ways to beat the Texas heat during summer in Austin.

Check here fees, operating hours and other important info before heading there. 

Coolers and food in general are not allowed inside Barton Springs. So, if you are planning to do a picnic, do it before or afterwards at Zilker Park. Or head to The Picnic, a food truck park down the road offering great food and treats.

2. Barton Creek and Colorado River

Barton Creek Kayak and Stand Up Paddle in Austin, Texas
Paddling Barton Creek and the Colorado River is a must-try activity in Austin, Texas.

Walk to the nearby Zilker Park Boat Rentals.

Rent a kayak or stand up paddle for an amazing trip down the gorgeous and crystal-clear Barton Creek. It flows into the Colorado River, which is the largest river in Texas and runs through Austin.

From the Colorado River you can enjoy beautiful Downtown views before heading back to Zilker Park and preparing for your next stop.

3. SoCo

South Congress Avenue - SoCo - in Austin, Texas
Photo Credit: Henry Huey/ Flickr

Head then to SoCo, the quirkiest part of South Congress Avenue, lined with shops and restaurants. 

For a quick bite, try Home Slice Pizza. For a treat, head to Amy’s Ice Cream, an Austin staple. Then just stroll throughout the odd stores and attractions. Don’t forget to stop by the famous “I love you so much mural”, one of Austin’s most instagrammed spots.  

For other ideas, check here the top 10 things to do in SoCo.

4. Congress Bridge Bats: Bat Watch Boat Tour

Bats at the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin, Texas
A unique natural spectacle takes place in Austin every summer, with millions of bats flying from under Congress Bridge at sunset.

From March to October, walk towards the Congress Avenue Bridge to watch 1.5 million bats emerging from it at sunset.

The largest urban colony of bats in North America lives under this bridge and every day at dusk, at this time of the year, they leave their nests in search of food.

You can watch this amazing and unique spectacle from the top of the bridge or on the nearby lawn for free.

But for the best views, take a bat watching boat tour, it is an amazing experience that I highly recommend (make reservations in advance).

5. Austin's Nightlife

Nightlife at 6th street in Austin, Texas
Nightlife at 6th street in Austin, Texas.

6th Street is Austin’s most known and explored nightlife hub. Whether you love it or hate it, it is the most iconic street in Austin and the perfect place to understand why Austin is on the map as the “Live Music Capital of the World”. 

For live music, head to The Parish or Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar. To taste a drink in the early hours of the evening, Parkside is your best bet. And make sure to stop by the emblematic Driskill Hotel’s bar for a cocktail.

If 6th St is not your style – I admit it is not mine – you might want to check on Rainey Street, one of Austin’s trendiest entertainment areas.

Rainey is a historic street lined with cute remodeled cottages converted into awesome bars and restaurants. You might want to check on the charming Lucille Lounge Patio or the laid-back Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden. But there are tons of options for every taste, so just stroll around and pick your favorite one. Take a look into this article for other ideas on bars and restaurants at Rainey Street.

DAY 2

1. Gospel Brunch

Gospel Brunch at Stubbs Barbecue in Austin, TX
One of Austin most authentic experiences, a Gospel Brunch at Stubbs Barbecue is a must.

On Sundays, indulge yourself in an authentic Gospel Brunch at Stubbs Bar-B-Q.

A legitimate southern experience that will make you stand on your feet and put a smile on your face. The music and energy are amazing, making it a unique and once in a lifetime experience.

Reservations are required. If available, make sure to reserve a seat with view of the band. It is slightly more expensive but really makes the difference.

Another option, if you can’t get a table at Stubbs, is to have Sunday Brunch at Rainey Street instead, which is also a lot of fun! Banger’s is the most popular brunch spot on Rainey’s – and lines tend to be huge – but there are also tons of other charming options around, with a cool atmosphere. Just stroll down the street and choose your favorite. 

2. Texas State Capitol

Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas
Take a free guided tour and visit the Texas Senate and House of Representatives at the majestic Texas State Capitol.

Explore the majestic Texas State Capitol building and grounds. Access is free to the public.

Tours can be self-guided (leaflets available at the entrance) but the Texas Capitol offers free guided-tours as well. A great and interesting way to learn more about politics and dive into the Texas history.

Take a step into the Texas Senate and House of Representative Chambers, among another important Capitol rooms.

Observe the beautiful and rich architecture and art collection and relax at the immaculate gardens.

3. Last but not least...

Best restaurants in Austin, Texas
Top off your weekend in Austin with barbecue at Blacks or a stunning sunset over lake Travis at Oasis.

Top off your Austin weekend getaway with a late lunch/ early dinner before hitting the road back to Dallas.

For a quick but superb bite, head to Black’s Barbecue, an authentic and laid-back barbecue joint. Try their mouthwatering brisket and sides such as the potato salad, baked beans and mac’n cheese. You’re welcome.

Or, if you are not in a rush, take a 30 minutes side trip and head to Oasis on Lake Travis. Take in the lake views and finish your weekend watching a stunning sunset (for the brave ones, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures is a short drive away and offers the longest and fastest zipline in Texas).

Franklin Barbecue is also in town and considered the best barbecue joint in Texas. But it has the disadvantage of closing its doors at 3:00 pm, so it is not suitable for late lunch/dinner… Anyhow if you can squeeze Franklin’s for lunch in your itinerary somehow, go for it!

Summing Up

Austin is one of the most amazing trips you can take from Dallas, year-round. 

It’s a lively city which offers tons of options. This 2-day itinerary covers all of Austin’s must-sees and is perfect when you have one weekend to spend in the city.

Experience the Austin amazing outdoors at Zilker Park, Barton Springs, Barton Creek and Colorado River. Spoil your eccentric inner self exploring SoCo and topping off with a bat watch experience. Enjoy Austin’s vibrant nightlife at 6th and Rainey Street. Attend an authentic Gospel Brunch at Stubbs BBQ. Visit the Texas State Capitol and step onto the real Texas Senate and House of Representatives Chamber. Try the delectable Texas barbecue at Black’s Barbecue or Franklin or watch the sunset from Oasis on Lake Travis. And, maybe, ride the longest and fastest zipline in Texas at Lake Travis.

Hit the road, head to Austin and have a blast this very next weekend! 

And get back here to leave a comment and let me know how it was. I hope you fall in love with Austin as a did and as I do every time that I visit the city.

If you know of any amazing place in Austin I’m missing out, please leave a comment bellow. I’ll be more than happy to check it out on my next trip to the “Live Music Capital of the World”.

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Weekend Itinerary in Houston, TX

Houston in 2 days: NASA and surroundings

How to spend one weekend in Houston and make the most of your visit to the NASA. 
Complete 2-days itinerary including nearby hidden gems you can’t miss out!

Houston, TX

Distance: 240 miles/ 3 h 30 min from Dallas

Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas - Houston - NASA Space Center

Houston is home to the NASA/ Houston Space Center, which by itself is already worth the trip. 

This is the NASA’s branch responsible for controlling the space missions and training astronauts, and you basically can see these facilities in person – how cool is that?

Whether you’re living in Dallas or just visiting the city, visiting the Space Center Houston is a once in a lifetime experience you simply can’t miss out while in Texas!

So hit the road and go for it. But first look into this post and find out what to do in Houston beyond the NASA. Discover amazing attractions nearby the Space Center and turn your visit to the NASA into the perfect weekend getaway.

Here you’ll find a complete 2-day itinerary in Houston with the must-sees in the NASA surroundings. Read bellow and enjoy your weekend in Houston to the fullest. I hope you have a blast!

And when you’re ready for more adventures, check our Trips from Dallas page for over 30 ideas on places to visit in Texas and surrounding states.

DAY 1

1. Space Center Houston - NASA

Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas - Houston - NASA Space Center

Start off with the very reason for your trip to Houston: the NASA Space Center. Plan to spend at least half a day there.

Buy tickets in advance to skip the usually long lines and arrive about 30 to 60 minutes before the Houston Space Center opens – might sound exaggerated, but you’ll eventually thank me for that.

Once the Space Center opens, go straight to the tram tours line. They tend to get huge, so you are better off starting there and exploring the Space Center calmly afterwards.

And don’t skip the tram tours under any circumstances! They take you from the Space Center, which is an exhibition, into the real NASA, and this is what is really special about visiting the Space Center Houston.

Check here the exhibits and experiences offered at the Space Center Houston. Or, even better, download their app to check what is going on in the day of your visit and plan ahead!

NASA Tram Tours - Astronaut Training Facility or Mission Control Center?

Here is where the magic happens. Take the tram tours to explore the real NASA grounds. Visit the place where astronauts prepare for their space journeys. Step onto the very room from where Apollo 13 was brought back to earth – does ‘Houston, we have a problem’ sound familiar?

“But do I have to choose one of them???” Noooooo. You can and should take both and they are included in your admission to the Houston Space Center.

But as each tram tour takes about 90 minutes – and lines are usually huge – if time is an issue you might have to pick one.

Both tours are amazing and completely different experiences. Which one to choose – if you really must – is a very personal matter. Here is what you can expect, so you can decide by yourself:

Mission Control Center Tour 

It takes you into the legendary Christopher C. Kraft Mission Control facility, from where history was made. The missions controlled from this room include early space shuttle missions and the first lunar landing mission. 

And it’s also the place from where the famous and almost tragic Apollo 13 expedition – ‘Houston, we have a problem’ – was brought back to earth.

Astronaut Training Facility

Here is where the future of the space expeditions take place. 

This tram tour takes you to the facility where astronauts train for future missions. And where engineers and designers work developing the next generation of space vehicles and equipment – you can see pretty cool mockups there.

Note:
Both tours finish at the Saturn V facility/ Rocket Park, where you can check on a real Saturn V massive rocket.
You should definitively stop there – but only once, in the second tour just skip it by remaining in the tram.

VIP Experiences at the Space Center Houston

You can upgrade your experience by having lunch with a real astronaut or taking a VIP behind-the-scenes tour

Both activities require advanced reservations. They come with a price tag but if you can afford it, it’s a unique and unparalleled experience.

2. Kemah Boardwalk

Weekend Getaways from Dallas - Houston - Kemah Boardwalk

Afterwards head to the nearby Kemah Boardwalk, an authentic old-school American amusement park, sat on a pier by the ocean.

Walk along the boardwalk to take in the views. Have fun on the amusement rides. 

Then explore the surroundings. Stop for Mediterranean food at Bakkhus Taverna. Grab a treat at the local Art of Coffee – their muffins are delicious. Explore quirky shops and walk towards the several piers for ocean views. Stroll through the bars on 6th Street.

Overall, just chill out and enjoy the relaxing seaside vibe.

Lodging

Consider staying at the South Shore Harbour Resort & Conference Center. It's close to the attractions mentioned in this post, in a nice area by the water channels and offers a beautiful resort style swimming pool. Ask for a room with front view of the pool (this is an independent review based on my personal experience).

DAY 2

1. San Jacinto Monument

Weekend Getaways from Dallas - Houston - San Jacinto Monument

Head to the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site.

Dig into Texas history exploring the San Jacinto Monument, raised on the San Jacinto Battle grounds, were Texas conquered its independence from Mexico in 1863. 

Inside the monument you’ll find a free exhibit where you can learn the details of the San Jacinto Battle among other historical facts. 

Visit the museum and then take the elevator to the observation floor for panoramic views. 

OR

2. Galveston

Drive 40 minutes to reach Galveston, on the Texas coast.

Galveston is not your white sand/ crystal-clear blue ocean perfect beach combo, it’s true. But it still has that beach town vibe you might be craving for.

Once there, enjoy the beach! Surfside and Stewart Beach are good options. Have a meal in a restaurant overlooking the ocean. Explore the historic Pleasure Pier. Stroll through the Strand Historic District, a lively shopping and dining area. 

Or skip it all together and spend the day at Moody Gardens, an Amusement Theme Park featuring an aquarium, a replica of the rainforest, zip-Line and lazy River, among other attractions.

Summing Up

Houston makes a great weekend getaway year-round!

The Houston Space Center is the highlight of your trip. Stepping on the mission control center room from where Apollo 13 was brought back to Earth, touching a 3.8 billion old piece of the moon or touring the real Astronaut Training Facility are once in a lifetime experiences you cannot miss.

But the NASA surroundings offer other superb attractions! Not far from there you can indulge in old-fashioned fun and breath in the coastal vibe of Kemah. Step onto Texas’ most important historic site, the San Jacinto battlegrounds, where Texas conquered its independence from Mexico. 

And even take a day trip from Houston to the beach. Galveston is a beach town only 40 minutes away from the Space Center Houston, offering beaches and fun things to do, such as Pier Pleasure, Moody Gardens, Strand Historic District and several seafood restaurants overlooking the Gulf Coast.

I hope you enjoy your weekend getaway to Houston. Go, have fun and then get back here to tell me how it was!

Leave a comment bellow letting me know if you’ve already been to the Houston area or to the NASA. 

If so, have you visited the all attractions mentioned in this post? How did you like it? Did you see something else you would recommend to someone planning to head there? 

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