Best State Parks & Recreation Areas Near Austin

Austin is surrounded by incredible parks and outdoor recreation areas. With rolling green meadows, wide open spaces, giant cypress and oak trees throughout the countryside and along creeks, limestone cliffs, rocky riverbeds, rivers, lakes and caves, Central Texas has some of the most diverse…

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Day Trip Destination: Bastrop County

Known as the "Historic Triangle," Bastrop County includes Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville, which were voted three of the most historic small towns in Texas. Explore Bastrop County’s culture at the historic cemeteries and museums, or celebrate their vibrant community with the locals at one of many…

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Day Trip Destination: San Marcos

Just a short drive south of Austin, San Marcos offers a quaint Texas experience. Make time for a day trip with our guide to San Marcos, where you can go tubing and float the scenic San Marcos River, explore the Texas State University campus, spend a day shopping at two expansive outlet malls, visit…

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Day Trip Destination: Wimberley

In the past five years, Wimberley has skyrocketed in popularity, making it one of the most interesting day trip adventures in the Texas Hill Country. Set against a backdrop of our state’s natural beauty, it’s abuzz with artsy and entrepreneurial energy. Choose your own perfect day—whether it’s…

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Day Trip Destination: Waco

If you’re itching for some new scenery, Austin’s central location in the Lone Star State makes it easy to take a day trip to and from. In the past decade, Waco has garnered a ton of national attention (in a good way.) The wild popularity of Chip and Joanna Gaines’ show, their Magnolia Market, the…

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Day Trip Destination: Spicewood

Home of Texas icon and country music legend Willie Nelson, Spicewood has a charm all its own. Fantastic barbecue, rolling hills, fabulous vineyards, and incredible views make this day trip one to remember. You’ll feel miles away from the city while still satisfying that need for novelty. Nature &…

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Day Trip Destination: Smithville

If you were a fan of Hope Floats , then Smithville is probably already on your “must visit” list. For everyone else, it should be. There’s a reason it’s been the backdrop for 13 different movies. This great little town is about 40 miles from Austin and boasts all the small-ish town charm you’re…

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Day Trip Destination: San Antonio

Just over an hour from Austin, San Antonio has emerged as a Texas hot spot and a great day-tripping destination. While it’s always been one of the largest cities in the state, over the past several years it’s come into its own as a great destination for food, fun, drinks and cultural adventures. You…

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Day Trip Destination: Salado, TX

Our favorite state has many historic spots but Salado, Texas has that old town look-and-feel that really connects you with small-town Texas history. Just an hour north of Austin, it’s the ideal spot for a quick getaway. Take to the charming streets to stroll the art galleries, split a dish at lovely…

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Day Trip Destination: Bastrop

Visitors travel across Texas in search of serene vistas and wide-open skies… but that road trip isn’t necessary. Austin is lucky enough to be just 30 minutes away from neighboring Bastrop, a city whose charm cannot be overstated. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the heart of Austin, Bastrop feels a…

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