Quick vacation in texas

It’s time to take a break from the daily grind and spend some time in Texas.

Texas is a great place to go if you’re looking for a quick vacation. The state has plenty of cool things to see and do, so you won’t feel like you’re wasting any time there.

There are tons of beautiful beaches and lakes that you can visit during your stay in Texas, so it’s perfect if you want to relax on the beach while also enjoying great weather. You can also get back in touch with nature by hiking through some of the state’s many forests or taking an evening stroll through one of its many parks. If that doesn’t sound like your thing, there are plenty of museums that offer educational exhibits as well as fun activities like miniature golf courses and arcades where kids can hang out while their parents shop around town or catch up on some much-needed rest time!

Stay in a Retro Camper and Experience Mysterious Marfa

Don’t let Marfa’s facade as a sleepy desert town fool you. This tiny town, hidden far away from any major city near the Texas- Mexico border, may only have 2,000 residents but it is bursting at the seams with art, creativity, and mysticism making it one of the coolest weekend getaways in Texas.

Check into El Cosmico, a bohemian hotel on the edge of town so cool that it has welcomed celebrities as big as Beyoncé. It offers a range of lodging options including teepees, yurts, safari tents, and artistically restored retro campers. El Cosmico is a destination in itself and a perfect place to base yourself for one of the most unique weekend trips in Texas.

One of the town’s most popular attractions is the fake Prada store in the middle of the desert that is actually an art installation. In town, there are a few hip restaurants and coffee shops to grab a bite to eat as well as eclectic boutiques and a few art galleries and installations to explore. It is one of the best things to do in Texas!

At night, drive outside the city and park at the Marfa Lights Viewing Area to try to catch a glimpse of the mysterious phenomenon that has puzzled residents, visitors, and even scientists since the 1800s. The Marfa Lights are a series of different colored lights that appear and disappear randomly throughout the night and appear dance on the horizon at different speeds.

Some believe the lights are paranormal while others believe they are just headlights. Either way, the mysterious lights are just part of what makes Marfa so mystical. Experience Marfa for yourself to make your own conclusions about the mysterious lights and this unassuming little town that has become one of the coolest weekend getaways in Texas.

Photo of a retro camper at El Cosmico in Marfa, one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Hit the Beach on Galveston Island

Galveston Island is one of the quickest and easiest weekend getaways from Houston. Located less than a 50-mile drive from downtown Houston, you can have your toes in the sand on the shore of the Gulf of Mexico in as little as an hour.

Spend the weekend relaxing on the beach, learn about sea life at Moody Gardens, brave the waterslides at Schlitterbahn Galveston, or ride an over-water rollercoaster at Pleasure Pier. Take a stroll through historic downtown Galveston which is lined with trendy shops and restaurants as well as many museums to learn about the history of the island.

The temperate climate allows Galveston’s visitors to enjoy the sunshine year-round making it one of the best weekend getaways in Texas any time of year! There are miles of beaches to soak up the sun and swim in the gulf as well as plenty of exciting attractions to keep you entertained.

Photo of Pleasure Pier, an over-water waterpark on Galveston Island, one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Immerse Yourself in History in San Antonio

Famous for being the home of the Alamo, San Antonio is packed full of history making it one of the best weekend getaways in Texas for history buffs or anyone who appreciates old-world charm.

Check into one of the many historic hotels such as The Menger, Hotel Gibbs, or The St. Anthony and spend the weekend retracing the footsteps of Davy Crockett at the Alamo, admiring the colonial architecture of the city, and exploring historic Spanish missions.

Hop on a colorful boat and enjoy a leisurely cruise down a 15-mile urban waterway that snakes through the heart of downtown while learning about San Antonio’s rich history from a knowledgeable guide. After dark, join a ghost tour to learn which Alamo defenders never really left and enjoy lesser-known stories from the city’s past.

San Antonio is a well-known destination for families with attractions such as Sea World and Six Flags Fiesta Texas, but the historical charm and plethora of luxury hotel and dining options make it one of the best weekend trips in Texas for couples.

Photo of colorful umbrellas on a  restaurant patio lining the river walk in San Antonio, one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Go Winery Hopping in Fredericksburg

The hills surrounding the charming town of Fredericksburg is the Texas equivalent of Napa Valley and has quickly become one of the trendiest weekend getaways in Texas. This historic town, which is one of the cutest smalls towns in Texas, dates back to 1846 and is surrounded by more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms! This is truly one of the best romantic getaways in Texas!

With so many wineries and so little time, the best way to visit as many as possible is to join one of the many guided tours. You can also choose to go at your own pace and hop on the 290 Wine Shuttle that runs between Main Street and the wineries that line Highway 290 East every Saturday.

After winery hopping until you drop on Saturday, start Sunday off with brunch in historic downtown followed by an afternoon of hunting for antiques in the warehouse district or learning about Fredericksburg’s German heritage at the Pioneer Museum.

Who needs an expensive flight to California when this wine lover’s paradise is just a drive away? Pack your road trip snacks and head to Fredericksburg to see why this small town is one of the most unique weekend getaways in Texas and is the perfect destination for a girl’s trip or romantic escape from the city.

Photo of wine glasses and a plate of cheese and crackers at a winery in Fredericksburg, one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Camp Under the Stars at Big Bend National Park

Situated just across the Rio Grande from Mexico, Big Bend National Park feels like it’s a world away from the rest of Texas. Its remote location, stunning mountain views, and unique desert landscape make it one of the best weekend getaways in Texas for camping.

Spend the weekend hiking through the park’s many trails, soaking up the scenic mountain views, relaxing in the hot springs on the edge of the Rio Grande, or even crossing the border to have lunch in the small Mexican village of Boquillas.

After a long day of adventures, pitch a tent at one of the park’s campgrounds and drift to sleep under the starry sky. Big Bend National Park is considered to be one of the best places for stargazing in North America which makes it one of the most epic weekend getaways in Texas. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear night, you can even catch a glimpse of the milky way.

Photo of the Rio Grande River flowing through Big Bend National Park, one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Treat Yourself to a Stay at The Driskill in Downtown Austin

If you’re looking for one of the most luxurious weekend getaways in Texas, head to the heart of Austin and book a stay at this historic hotel dripping in art deco details. Spend the weekend treating yourself to luxury and enjoying all of the finer things this vibrant city has to offer.

The moment you walk into the Driskill’s opulent lobby featuring marble floors and a stained glass ceiling, you will be transported back to the turn of the century when the hotel first opened its doors. Check into one of the timelessly decorated rooms or suites and admire the hotel’s magnificent architecture.

Austin is one of the best weekend getaways in Texas with endless things to keep you entertained. Located right in the center of the action on 6th Street, The Driskill is the perfect place to base yourself for an upscale weekend in the city. Experience Austin’s legendary nightlife and music scene right outside the hotel’s doors if you ever decide to leave your luxurious room.

Photo of the lobby inside the Driskill Hotel in Austin, one of the most fabulous weekend getaways in Texas.
Photo Credit: Booking.com via The Driskill Hotel

Float Down a River in New Braunfels

While there are many places to choose from to go river tubing in Texas, New Braunfels is by far the most popular choice. With two rivers and lots of tour companies to choose from, New Braunfels is one of the most exciting weekend getaways in Texas for River tubing.

You can choose between the Guadalupe River or the Comal River for your tubing adventure. The Guadalupe River offers the longest tubing trips with exciting rapids and is known for its party scene. The Comal River is shorter but has fun chutes along the way that are like waterslides.

Whether you choose to float the Guadalupe River or the Comal River, the tour company you choose will handle all the logistics of getting you to the river so all that’s left to do is pack a cooler full of refreshments, pick out a cute swimsuit and get ready for a fun day of floating!

If you’re looking to pack even more fun into your weekend, visit Schlitterbahn Waterpark or explore the historic town of New Braunfels and learn about its rich German history. With so many exciting things to do, New Braunfels is one of the best summer weekend getaways in Texas!

Photo of tubes floating down the Guadalupe River in New Braunfels, one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Soak Up the Sun at South Padre Island

With white sand beaches and crystal clear water, South Padre Island is the only tropical island in the state. While it is located at the very south tip of the state, South Padre Island is within a day’s drive of most major cities and is one of the most relaxing weekend trips in Texas!

When you’re not lounging on the beach or swimming in the emerald water, take a dolphin-watching cruise on the gulf or a guided horseback ride on the beach. Stop by the visitor’s center to marvel at the giant sandcastles and learn a little history about the island. You can even book a lesson to learn how to build your own!

For a more adventurous weekend, there are plenty of water sports to choose from such as surfing, kiteboarding, parasailing, and jet-skiing. The Laguna Madre trail is a nature lover’s paradise and the perfect place for a leisurely stroll to spot wildlife.

South Padre Island boasts 300 days a year of sunshine so it’s one of the warmest weekend getaways in Texas most of the year. However, it’s best to avoid visiting in March to avoid the massive spring break crowds.

Photo of sand dunes on the beach at South Padre Island, one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Relax and Unwind at the Charming Inn on Lake Granbury

Looking for one of the most romantic weekend getaways in Texas? This charming and award-winning lakefront Bed and Breakfast located in historic Granbury is the perfect place for a weekend away with your sweetheart.

The Inn offers 15 lakefront luxury suites, each uniquely decorated and offering amenities such as private porches, fireplaces, jetted bathtubs, and stunning views. Spend the evening relaxing in the luxurious saltwater pool that features a waterfall. Your stay includes gourmet breakfasts in the morning as well as wine and appetizers every afternoon.

Situated just a short walk from Granbury’s historic district, the Inn on Lake Granbury offers easy access to all the many local dining options and attractions. From theatre productions to wine tastings and cooking classes, the wide variety of romantic activities to choose from makes Granbury one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Photo of a guest room with a private porch at the Inn on Lake Granbury, one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.
Photo Credit: Booking.com via The Inn on Lake Granbury

Road Trip the Piney Woods Wine Trail

Lesser known than the Hill Country wine region, the Piney Woods Wine Trail is an up-and-coming wine travel destination. A road trip through the region exploring quaint towns, tasting delicious wines, and experiencing the famous warm hospitality is one of the most romantic weekend getaways in East Texas!

There are 20 wineries along the trail that stretches from Naples down to Nacogdoches. Many of the wineries are open daily for wine tastings and some even offer live music and full menus of gourmet cuisine. During the summer months, some of the wineries host grape stomping events so you can join in on the fun.

Check into one of the many adorable Bed and Breakfasts in the quaint East Texas towns along the trail or treat yourself to a stay at one of the wineries that offer guests accommodations. The Piney Woods Wine Trail is one of the state’s best-kept secrets so head east and enjoy having one of the most unique weekend getaways in Texas to yourself before the secret gets out!

Photo of a vineyard located on the Piney Woods Wine Trail, one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Connect With Nature at Palo Duro Canyon State Park

The Texas Panhandle is home to the second-largest canyon in the United States, Palo Duro Canyon. Although it is located just 25 miles south of Amarillo, making it one of the most accessible weekend getaways in Texas, it feels like a world away.

Formed by thousands of years of water erosion, Palo Duro Canyon descends almost 800 feet into the earth and offers spectacular views. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the plethora of nature trails ranging from easy strolls along the canyon floor for wildlife spotting to challenging climbs up the canyon walls.

If you are visiting Palo Duro Canyon during the summer months, you can’t miss Texas the Outdoor Musical, a lively production set in an outdoor rock amphitheater surrounded by views of the canyon. The experience begins with an optional chuckwagon barbeque dinner and ends with a grand finale fireworks display lighting up the night sky.

What makes Palo Duro Canyon one of the best weekend getaways in Texas is the wide variety of things to do. From ziplining over the canyon to horseback riding along the trails, there are plenty of adventures to keep you entertained!

red rock formations at Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Escape the City to The Woodlands Resort

Located just 30 minutes from downtown Houston, The Woodlands Resort is not only one of the easiest weekend getaways from Houston, but also one of the most luxurious weekend getaways in Texas! Situated on 330 acres of lush, beautifully landscaped grounds, you will hardly remember you are just outside of a big city.

When you’re not unwinding in your luxury suite, head to the resort’s Forest Oasis Waterpark for some fun in the sun! The waterpark is heated and stays at the perfect temperature year-round so you float down the lazy river, race down the water slides, and swim in the lagoon-style pool any day of the year!

Head to one of the resort’s golf courses and book a training session to perfect your swing or spend the day relaxing at the spa. Whether you are looking for a fun family weekend or one of the best Texas weekend getaways for couples, The Woodlands Resort has a little something for everyone!

Photo of the waterpark at The Woodlands Resort, one of the most fabulous weekend getaways in Texas
Photo credit: Booking.com via The Woodlands Resort

See the Bluebonnets in Ennis

If you’re looking for the perfect place to see the famous Texas bluebonnets, Ennis is for you! Designated the “Official Bluebonnet City of Texas”, Ennis is one of the best places to see bluebonnets in the state.

Every April, the city hosts the Bluebonnet Trails Festival featuring over 40 miles of driving trails to see the famous wildflower plus music, food, and entertainment. The festival attracts thousands of visitors and is one of the best weekend getaways in Texas during the spring!

You can also learn about the town’s history at the Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum, catch a movie at the Galaxy Drive-In, or shop for fresh produce at the weekly farmer’s market. Ennis is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas, located just a 35-minute drive away from the city.

Photo of a field of bluebonnets. Bluebonnet sightseeing is one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Experience Luxury in the Texas Hill Country

Over 10,000 square miles of rolling hills dotted with bluebonnets, pristine lakes, and picturesque small towns await in the region of Texas surrounding Austin and San Antonio known as Hill Country. If you’re looking for one of the most romantic getaways in Texas, consider a stay at one of the region’s many luxury resorts.

Check into your own luxurious private cottage at Campy Lucy, an idyllic ranch located in Dripping Springs, or get rejuvenated in an authentic salt cave followed by a romantic couples massage at Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort.

Splurge for the ultimate luxurious weekend at Lake Austin Spa Resort, which has been rated the number one destination spa resort in North America, or go horseback riding through the trails surrounding the stunning Hyatt Regency Lost Pines.

No matter what resort you choose, the beautiful Texas Hill Country is the perfect backdrop to a romantic escape from city life and one of the best weekend getaways in Texas.

Photo of Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, one of the most fabulous weekend getaways in Texas.
Photo Credit: Booking.com via Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa

With so many amazing weekend getaways in Texas to choose from, there is something for everyone! We hope this list inspired you to explore all of the incredible adventures the state has to offer. If you’re looking for even more Texas adventures, plan a trip to one of the state’s National Parks.

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