Family Vacation

14 Best Weekend Getaways In Texas You Cannot Miss

Source : instagram

Texas is huge in size and reputation. If you are in search of a usual, weekend getaway in Texas, it is an ideal way to enjoy your time with friends and family besides the hustling working days.

The city is known for its food scene, southern hospitality, and of course the cowboy culture. The state also offers exciting outdoor adventures in different cities like horse riding, hiking and biking trails, and swimming in natural springs. So, let's explore some of the best weekend getaways in Texas you can't miss.

1. Marfa

Source : instagram

Marfa is a small town in West Texas known for its art installations and food. Sitting between Big Bend National Park and Davis Mountains, this small town offers more than meets the eye being a slice of heaven in the middle of the desert.

Why Marfa?

One of their major attractions is the Prada Marfa, which looks like a high-end Prada store, full of shoes and handbags. Visitors enjoy taking photos there. Also, the town offers an impressive food scene, you can find various delicious options from Tex-Mex to fine dining.

2. The San Luis Resort

Source : facebook

The San Luis Resort is a year-round oceanfront resort located about 80 miles south of Houston, Texas. This resort has expanded 32 acres and offers so many things to do.

The resort offers the perfect Galveston Hotel and resort experience with lavish accommodations, breathtaking Gulf views, and personalized service. You can enjoy the sun-drenched beaches, historic sites, and famed shopping. You can also relax and unwind the Gulf-view guest rooms, which exudes luxury and comfort.

3. Dripping Springs

Source : instagram

Dripping Springs is known for its vineyards, breweries, and distilleries, and some of the most incredible natural beauty, including the historic swimming hole. It is convenient for a day trip or a long weekend gateway, located less than 30 miles from Austin.

Whether you are looking for a break or want to experience the best of this place, Dripping Springs has something for everyone. You can also enjoy water-based activities, drinking spots, antique shopping, hiking, live music, and more.

4. Frio River

Source : instagram

Frio River is the most majestic and dramatic of all the Hill Country valleys. It is the canyon centerpiece, shadowed by soaring limestone bluffs and some dramatic hills in the region. It caters to those seeking a relaxing outdoor experience with crystal clear, spring-fed waters perfect for tubings, swimming, and kayaking.

The most popular activity to be done is floating along its gentle current on tubes, with many access points available along the river. You can also find numerous natural swimming holes along the river, perfect for relaxing and taking a dip.

5. South Padre Island

Source : instagram

It is a 34-mile-long tropical paradise located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, ranked as top beach destinations across the globe. The hidden gem tucked away on the southern tip of Texas boasts a kaleidoscope of experiences that make for the ultimate weekend trip.

It's a beautiful setting rich with leisure and experiences, ranging from stunning sandy beaches, extensive natural tourism attractions, and water activities to outstanding local restaurants providing delicious cuisine and seafood dishes.

6. San Antonio

Source : instagram

San Antonio is among the perfect getaway weekend spots as the city has many things to do and various culinary eateries to enjoy delicious meals. It has the historic Market Square where you can enjoy its Mexican heritage and culture where the city truly comes alive.

You can get a lay of the land and unwind after a day of travel stroll along its famous River Walk. Along the River Walk, you can find different eateries and cafe spots serving famous Tex-Mex cuisine, including Casa Rio, Boudro's, and Iron Cactus.

7. Houston

Source : instagram

Houston can be an ideal getaway place during the weekend if you are looking for a family-friendly adventure or an exciting day trip.  It offers nationally recognized shopping, dining, nightlife, and entertainment experiences.

You can walk through the replica of a space shuttle and the US's first space station or visit the Houston Zoo, home to over 6000 indigenous and exotic animals, including giraffes, lions, tigers, and many more. You can also visit The Galleria, the home to more than 400 class stores, food outlets, charming restaurants, and a Cheesecake Factory.

8. New Braunfels

Source : instagram

New Braunfels is a picturesque city in the Texas Hill Country which blends the characters of its German namesake with the charm and beauty of the country. It offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, including tubing at the Comal River, Natural Bridge Caverns with limestone formations, fossil mining, and the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch.

It has top-notch dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The city is home to the world-famous Schlitterbahn Waterpark, the oldest dancehall Guene Hall, and the oldest bakery Naeglin's Bakery. New Braunfels offers an unforgettable experience during the weekend for visitors.

9. Ennis

Source : instagram

Ennis is a medieval town located just 25 minutes south of downtown Dallas and is the perfect place to spend a day, week, or a lifetime. It is a great weekend destination known as the " The Official Bluebonet City and Trail of Texas."

You can take in the Bluebonnet Spirit as you sip, shop, and stroll along the brick streets of the historic downtown district. Also, enjoy the nostalgia of watching your favorite stars in a big screen at Galaxy Drive-in at Theatre Rocks. You can stroll along the brick streets or visit the Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum.

10. Luckenbach

Source : instagram

Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Luckenbach is known as a venue for country music and its German-Texan heritage, including live concerts by country music stars. The town offers live music, including Sunday pickin' and performances by visitors.

You can visit the Luckenbach Dance Hall, known as the historic dance hall since 1887, which features live country music every day. The tiny town has an old schoolhouse built in 1855, which is a designated historic landmark and is now a community center, where tours and open houses are offered.

11. Big Bend National Park

Source : instagram

Big Bend National Park is located in the southwestern part of Texas along the Texas-Mexico border. The park boasts 150 miles of hiking trails through mountainous desert terrain and along rivers. It is a place where you can feel the whispers of pioneers, ranchers, miners, and Native Americans.

The National Park offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. You can be drawn to geological structures that date back millions of years, 1,200 species of plants and 450 bird species. The park also offers additional activities, including scenic drives, programs led by Big Bend park ranges, and stargazing.

12. Corpus Christi

Source : instagram

Corpus Christi is a great spot for a slow, relaxing weekend getaway offering a laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and sunny weather. You can spend a day at the beach, shopping and trying new restaurants.

It possesses all of the main ingredients for an ideal weekend trip, the sun, the sea, the sight seeing, plus exhilarating and engaging activities the whole family can enjoy. You can spend your day on the beach soaking up the sun or wind surfing, the breezy favorite pastime. At night, enjoy the succulent seafood dinner at any of their fine restaurants with true flavors and cozy ambiance.

13. Miraval Austin Resort & Spa

Source : facebook

Miraval Austin is an inclusive destination resort and spa where you can embark on a wellness journey with signature wellness experiences and luxury accommodations. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque Austin location, with its clean, spacious rooms, and a plethora of activitiess contributing to a serene and engaging stay.

This luxurious wellness spot can help you create a life in balance through mindfulness during the weekend. With its pioneering programs, exclusive spa treatments, nourishing cuisine, and world-class wellness specialists, it will make you getaway a best life experience.

14. Terlingua

Source : instagram

Terlingua is a small desert community which is a perfect getaway if you want to visit Big Bend National Park, explore a former mining town, and attend a famous chili cook-off. It consists of the old cemetery which is a great place for taking pictures, especially against the desert views of Chisos and Big Bend.

This mining town offers a variety of lodging options, from historic to modern, all within walking distance of restaurants and bars. Once called the ghost town due to abandoned buildings, many of them have now been transformed into hotels, restaurants. and other visitor's services.