Austin Insider Blog

This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of.

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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Visiting Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Less than two hours away from Austin is Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a magical outdoor wonderland, indeed. Here, a massive pink granite dome stands 425 feet above the rocky soil below, a spectacular sight amidst the rolling Hill Country landscape. At the park, campsites, hiking trails, and…

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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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Day Trip Destination: Round Rock

Just 20 minutes north of Austin, Round Rock is known for historic sites, a walk-able downtown, great shopping, and professional and amateur sports offerings. Get to know this destination and plan your day trip from Austin with our guide to the top things to do, see and eat in Round Rock. Downtown &…

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16 Day Trips & Hill Country Towns to Visit

Buckle up and get ready to cruise the incredibly scenic Texas Hill Country. We’ve rounded up 16 towns worth a day trip for browsing charming shops, touring historic landmarks, dining on true Texas barbecue, floating on pristine rivers and catching a live show at a dance hall. Winery in Driftwood…

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Day Trip Destination: Marble Falls, TX

Though just 50 miles west of Austin, the city of Marble Falls makes you feel like you’re in some kind of dream. Revel in the great outdoors! Pick berries at a quaint farm! Eat pies the size of a small country! Drink cold craft beer! Picnic in a vineyard! Let’s be honest — a day trip here simply…

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Day Trip Destination: Miraval Austin Resort & Spa

Dreaming about your next getaway, but can’t commit to a week-long vacation right now? Sometimes taking a few hours away from your usual routine is all you need to recharge your mind, body and soul - and Miraval Austin Resort & Spa's day package, which features full access to Miraval's extensive…

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Day Trip Destination: Lockhart

Lockhart has long been known as the barbecue capital of Texas. Way before Franklin was a whisper in the wind, Texans from all over have flocked to this city to get their carnivore on. There’s more than meets (or meats) the eye here though—a fascinating history, adorable shops, live music, golfing…

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Day Trip Destination: Lake Travis

Any day you’re on the lake is a good day and Lake Travis is a perfect getaway for those looking to get out on the water. The businesses that have sprung up around the lake in far west Austin, Lakeway and other nearby towns are seemingly all designed to get you to relax, have fun, and indulge in a…

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