Best Road Trips from Houston
Road Trips from Houston
Beach Getaways
Nature Escapes
History & Culture
Texas Hill Country Charm
City Adventures
Looking for the best road trips from Houston? Trade the city for sun-drenched shores on Galveston Island, where pristine beaches await. For longer excursions, allow approximately 9 hours to explore the impressive rock formations of Palo Duro State Park or immerse yourself in the natural wonders and hiking trails of Big Bend National Park.
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
In case you are wondering about the choice of listings in this article, here is how we come up with our recommendations.
Also, check out our post on Best Attractions in Houston, Best Places To Take Pictures in Houston and Best Museums in Houston!
Road Trips from Houston TX – Beach Getaways
Galveston Island
Image credit: Galveston Island
Just a short 50-mile drive from Houston, this coastal gem offers salty breezes and sandy beaches. Explore marine life at Moody Gardens’ Aquarium Pyramid or embark on a 90-minute ghost tour any night.
- How Long: 51 minutes
- How Far: 50.9 miles
- Insider Tip: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach instead of spending money at beachside restaurants.
- Budget: Low-moderate. Galveston offers many free activities like exploring the Strand District and the beach. Stay in an Airbnb or campground for a budget-friendly experience.
- Best For: Families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
South Padre Island
South Padre Island is a beach lover’s dream, the perfect escape for a relaxing getaway or a fun-filled adventure. Consider taking sandcastle lessons for a unique experience
- How Long: 5 hours and 44 minutes
- How Far: 374 miles
- Insider Tip: Rent a beach umbrella and chairs instead of buying them, especially if your stay is short.
- Budget: Moderate-high. South Padre Island caters more to tourists with higher accommodation and restaurant costs.
- Best For: Families and couples.
Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi invites you to immerse yourself in turquoise waters, create sandcastles on pristine beaches, and witness dolphins playing near your kayak. This coastal city offers a balance of relaxation and adventure, from exploring vibrant underwater reefs to savoring fresh seafood at establishments such as The Mariner.
- How Long: 3 hours and 11 minutes
- How Far: 208 miles
- Insider Tip: Take advantage of free museum days and explore the USS Lexington for an educational and unique experience.
- Budget: Moderate-high. Similar to South Padre Island, Corpus Christi caters to tourists with slightly lower costs due to its larger size.
- Best For: Families, friends, and travel groups.
Houston Road Trips – Nature Escapes
Sam Houston National Forest
Choosing this over the other road trips from Houston? Discover a lush landscape of rolling pines, clear creeks, and diverse wildlife. Hike along the scenic Lone Star Hiking Trail or enjoy camping at the Cagle Recreation Area, which accommodates both tents and RVs.
- How Long: 44 minutes
- How Far: 47.4 miles
- Insider Tip: Pack bug spray and wear long sleeves and pants during mosquito season (late spring to early fall).
- Budget: Low. Camping or staying in cabins within the park are cost-effective options. Entrance fees are minimal.
- Best For: Families and friends.
Caddo Lake State Park
Caddo Lake State Park offers a nature lover’s paradise for a weekend retreat from city life. Visitors can enjoy picnics and overnight stays in historic cabins.
- How Long: 3 hours and 49 minutes
- How Far: 235 miles
- Insider Tip: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the swampy cypress forests. Be sure to bring binoculars for birdwatching.
- Budget: Low-moderate. Camping within the park or staying in cabins is affordable.
- Best For: Families, couples, and nature enthusiasts.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Experience the grandeur of Palo Duro Canyon State Park! Consider embarking on a 1-hour horseback ride along the Sad Monkey Mesa trail for opportunities to observe roadrunners, coyotes, and mule deer in their natural habitat.
- How Long: 9 hours and 3 minutes
- How Far: 613 miles
- Insider Tip: Hike through rugged trails carved into the fiery red rock along the Lighthouse Trail and go birdwatching.
- Budget: Low-moderate. Camping is an affordable option.
- Best For: Active travelers!
Hot Springs National Park
Imagine yourself immersed in the verdant landscapes and historic bathhouses of Hot Springs National Park, some dating back to the 1800s. Explore Bathhouse Row to discover the history of these elegant buildings, or indulge in a massage, hydrotherapy, and spa treatments.
- How Long: 6 hours and 29 minutes
- How Far: 411 miles
- Insider Tip: Book your bathhouse reservations in advance, especially during peak season.
- Budget: Moderate. Accommodation costs vary depending on your desired style.
- Best For: Families and groups of friends.
Lake Charles
This Louisiana destination, approximately a 2-hour drive from Houston, offers a transition from cityscapes to the marshlands of the Lake Charles Gator Pond, where alligators abound. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of historic casinos like the Golden Nugget.
- How Long: 2 hours and 10 minutes
- How Far: 144 miles
- Insider Tip: Take advantage of free festivals and events throughout the year, especially during Mardi Gras season for a vibrant experience.
- Budget: Moderate. Lodging options range from budget-friendly hotels to casinos offering accommodation packages.
- Best For: All types of travelers.
Big Bend National Park
Discover breathtaking vistas from top trails and mountain peaks such as the South Rim Trail, Santa Elena Canyon Trail, and Lost Mine Peak. For those preferring a less strenuous experience, the park offers excellent birdwatching locations and the relaxing Langford Hot Springs, a perfect respite after a long drive.
- How Long: 9 hours and 42 minutes
- How Far: 601 miles
- Insider Tip: Check out the stargazing domes for a magical evening here.
- Budget: Park entrance fees and camping options are available.
- Best For: Active travelers and nature enthusiasts.
Houston TX Roadtrips for History & Culture
Huntsville
Image credit: City of Huntsville, TX – Government
Explore history and space exploration in Huntsville, Texas, an hour’s drive north of Houston. Immerse yourself in the rich narrative of Texas at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, and then honor those who served at the poignant H.E.A.R.T.S Veterans Museum of Texas.
- How Long: 1 hour and 4 minutes
- How Far: 70.5 miles
- Insider Tip: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the Sam Houston National Forest, which offers scenic overlooks and historical sites.
- Budget: Low-moderate. Affordable lodging options are available in Huntsville, and many attractions are free or inexpensive.
- Best For: Families, history buffs, and space enthusiasts.
Waco
Waco, about a 3-hour drive from Houston, presents a blend of history, quirky appeal, and notable attractions such as the Magnolia Market, ideal for shopping and enjoying baked goods from Silos Baking Co. A visit to the Dr Pepper Museum offers a fun soda-tasting experience.
- How Long: 2 hours and 51 minutes
- How Far: 185 miles
- Insider Tip: Go on a self-guided tour
- Budget: Moderate. Lodging options range from budget-friendly hotels to vacation rentals.
- Best For: Families and couples.
Fredericksburg
Explore the town’s history at your own pace with a self-guided tour of the Pioneer Museum – sunscreen is recommended! Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the journey from Houston to Fredericksburg; the 290 Wine Shuttle departs downtown every Friday and Saturday, offering convenient access to various local wineries approximately every 10 minutes.
- How Long: 3 hours and 58 minutes
- How Far: 236 miles
- Insider Tip: Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds, especially during peak fall foliage season.
- Budget: Moderate-high. Fredericksburg is known for its wineries and charming accommodations, which can be pricier than other destinations on this list.
- Best For: Couples and friends.
San Antonio
Discover the cultural and historical richness of San Antonio, one of the 3 hour road trips from Houston! Explore the iconic Alamo, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the River Walk, and savor delicious barbacoa tacos at Taquitos West Avenue.
- How Long: 2 hours and 56 minutes
- How Far: 197 miles
- Insider Tip: Purchase a San Antonio CityPASS for discounted entry to popular attractions like the San Antonio Botanical Garden or the Tower of the Americas.
- Budget: Moderate-high. San Antonio offers various lodging options, but popular attractions and peak seasons can lead to higher costs.
- Best For: All types of travelers.
New Orleans
Discover the French Quarter’s picturesque balconies and the musical heritage of Preservation Hall, or explore intriguing voodoo shops like Voodoo Spell and historic cemeteries on this memorable road trip from Houston. Replenish your energy with flavorful Spicy Boudin Eggrolls or the rich Spicy Seafood with Duck and Sausages Gumbo at Cajun Dragon Grill.
- How Long: 5 hours and 16 minutes
- How Far: 348 miles
- Insider Tip: Research and pack comfortable walking shoes, as exploring the French Quarter and other areas is best done on foot.
- Budget: Moderate-high. New Orleans offers diverse lodging options, but factor in potential meal costs, especially during festivals like Mardi Gras.
- Best For: Adults and culturally curious travelers.
Beaumont
Image credit: City of Beaumont – Government
Escape the highway for a leisurely one-hour drive through charming Southeast Texas towns to Beaumont! History enthusiasts can step back in time at the McFaddin-Ward House Historic Museum and the Chambers House Museum.
- How Long: 1 hour and 18 minutes
- How Far: 84.9 miles
- Insider Tip: Visit Spindletop Park to learn about the history of the Texas oil boom and enjoy scenic views from the Gladys City Boomtown replica.
- Budget: Low-moderate. Affordable lodging options are available in Beaumont.
- Best For: Families, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts.
Texas Hill Country Charm Road Trips from Houston
Texas Hill Country
Begin your exploration by hiking the 425-foot pink granite dome of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Then, cool off with a relaxing float along the Guadalupe River or unwind and savor delicious barbecue at Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que.
- How Long: 4 hours and 23 minutes
- How Far: 288 miles
- Insider Tip: Purchase a Texas Hill Country Passport for discounted entry to wineries, museums, and other attractions.
- Budget: Moderate-high. Lodging options range from budget-friendly motels to luxury cabins.
- Best For: Couples, families, and friends.
Brenham
Brenham, a historic gem in the Texas Hill Country, welcomes visitors with vibrant murals, unique antique shops, and local craft breweries. For a delicious lunch, be sure to try the highly recommended chicken flautas at La Jefa Homestyle Birria food truck if you choose this over the other road trips from Houston.
- How Long: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- How Far: 76 miles
- Insider Tip: When in Brenham, you have to stop by Blue Bell Creamery and take the self-guided tour before grabbing a scoop of chocolate chip cookie dough.
- Budget: Low-moderate. Brenham offers a variety of accommodation options, including budget-friendly hotels and charming bed and breakfasts.
- Best For: Families and couples.
Wimberley
Swap skyscrapers for towering cypress trees and concrete for the winding Blanco River. Unwind after your journey with a relaxing stay at Cypress Falls Lodge, where you can enjoy cozy bonfires and breathtaking stargazing.
- How Long: 2 hours and 56 minutes
- How Far: 182 miles
- Insider Tip: Pack swimwear and towels to enjoy the cool waters of Cypress Falls Swimming Hole.
- Budget: Moderate. Lodging options range from vacation rentals and campgrounds to bed and breakfasts.
- Best For: All types of travelers.
Houston TX Road Trips to City Adventures
Fort Worth
Road Trips from Houston | Image Credit: City of Fort Worth
For a taste of authentic cowboy culture, embark on a 260-mile road trip to Fort Worth, the vibrant center of Texas’ western heritage. While there, be sure to savor the distinctive Bourbon Butterscotch at Avoca Coffee Roasters.
- How Long: 3 hours and 50 minutes
- How Far: 262 miles
- Insider Tip: Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District during the daytime to experience the cattle drives and historical reenactments.
- Budget: Moderate. Lodging options range from budget-friendly hotels to historic inns.
- Best For: Families, couples, and history buffs.
New Braunfels
Swap city views for river adventures in New Braunfels, one of the shorter road trips from Houston! This destination is a paradise for water enthusiasts, offering enjoyable tubing experiences on the Comal River and the expansive Schlitterbahn Waterpark, which also features resort accommodations.
- How Long: 2 hours and 42 minutes
- How Far: 175 miles
- Insider Tip: Pack water shoes for tubing down the Guadalupe River, a popular activity in the area.
- Budget: Moderate. Lodging options range from budget-friendly hotels to vacation rentals and campgrounds.
- Best For: Families, couples, and friends.
Austin
Expect to discover unique art installations and delicious food trucks, such as Everest Momo, as you explore this city full of surprises. If time and company permit, consider an engaging experience at the Playground escape room at The Escape Game Austin.
- How Long: 2 hours and 38 minutes
- How Far: 162 miles
- Insider Tip: Take advantage of Austin’s vibrant live music scene. Catch free shows at bars and restaurants or purchase tickets for bigger acts.
- Budget: Moderate-high. Austin is a popular tourist destination, so lodging and dining can be more expensive than other Texas cities.
- Best For: All types of travelers.
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These are all interesting but you left out an entire area just an hour’s drive to the northwest. Be sure to check out Brenham, Round Top, Burton, Chappell Hill and Carmine! Eat and shop in Round Top and go to a classical concert at Festival Hill! Go enjoy craft beer (BVB) or locally roasted coffee (Independence Coffee) in Brenham while listening to live music at Home Sweet Farm, 4 Star Concert Hall or city sponsored Hot Nights Cool Tunes every Saturday in July! Eat delicious barbecue at Truth or LJ’s! If you are a cyclist, get your bike out on the country roads.
Thank you so much for this article. It has officially molded the summer for my kids and grandkids! It’s economical, educational and there’s something for everyone. I look forward to exploring my home state of Texas with my family.
Thanks Kat!?