Houston’s Quick Getaways: 10 Day Trips Worth the Drive
Day Trips from Houston – Houston’s central location makes it the perfect base for exploring some of Texas’s most unique and exciting destinations. Whether you’re looking for a beach getaway, a historic adventure, or a nature escape, there’s something for everyone within a short drive. Here are the 10 best day trips from Houston, complete with things to do, places to visit, and the best spots to eat.
1. Matagorda Bay
Drive Time: ~2 hours
Things to Do:
- Relax on the quiet and unspoiled Matagorda Beach.
- Go fishing or kayaking in the Colorado River Delta.
- Take a scenic boat ride through Matagorda Bay Nature Park.
Places to Visit:
- Matagorda Bay Nature Park – A pristine coastal sanctuary with walking trails and fishing spots.
- LCRA Matagorda Bay Birding Center – A paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 species.
Where to Eat:
- Waterman’s Restaurant – Fresh seafood with waterfront views.
- Snappers Bar & Grill – A casual spot for burgers and fried shrimp.
Special Tip:
For an unforgettable experience, book a nighttime kayak tour to see glowing bioluminescent plankton in the bay!
2. Shiner
Drive Time: ~2 hours
Things to Do:
- Tour the Spoetzl Brewery, home of Shiner Beer, and enjoy tastings.
- Explore Downtown Shiner, a charming small-town area with historic buildings and shops.
Places to Visit:
- Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church – A stunning Czech-German painted church.
- Howard’s Convenience Store – A quirky stop with an old-school gas station and live music.
Where to Eat:
- Kasper’s Meat Market – Famous for its delicious homemade sausages.
- Friday’s Fried Chicken – A local favorite for crispy fried chicken and country-style sides.
Special Tip:
Visit in October for Shiner Oktoberfest, featuring live polka music, German beer, and bratwurst!
3. Brenham
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
Things to Do:
- Tour the famous Blue Bell Creameries and enjoy free samples.
- Stroll through Downtown Brenham to explore antique shops and boutiques.
Places to Visit:
- Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site – The birthplace of Texas.
- Antique Rose Emporium – A beautiful garden center with rare roses.
Where to Eat:
- Must Be Heaven – Home to delicious pies and sandwiches.
- Truth BBQ – Ranked among the best BBQ joints in Texas.
Special Tip:
Visit in spring for the spectacular Texas bluebonnet bloom!
4. Huntsville
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
Things to Do:
- Hike through the Sam Houston National Forest.
- Explore the Huntsville State Park for kayaking and birdwatching.
Places to Visit:
- Sam Houston Statue & Visitor Center – A towering tribute to Texas’ first president.
- Texas Prison Museum – Discover the history of the Texas penal system.
Where to Eat:
- Farmhouse Café – Famous for its Southern comfort food and pies.
- City Hall Café – A cozy spot for Tex-Mex dishes.
Special Tip:
Bring a camera—the Sam Houston Statue is the world’s tallest statue of an American hero.
5. Lake Conroe
Drive Time: ~1 hour
Things to Do:
- Rent a boat or jet ski to explore Lake Conroe.
- Visit the charming town of Montgomery, known as the birthplace of the Texas flag.
Places to Visit:
- Margaritaville Lake Resort – A perfect spot for relaxation and water activities.
- Fernland Historical Park – Features historic log homes and cabins.
Where to Eat:
- The Toasted Yolk Café – Great for a hearty breakfast before your lake adventure.
- Pacific Yard House – A fantastic gastropub with live music.
Special Tip:
Book a sunset cruise for the best views of the lake!
6. Beaumont
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
Things to Do:
- Visit the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum to see an oil gusher re-enactment.
- Explore Big Thicket National Preserve with its unique swampy trails.
Places to Visit:
- Fire Museum of Texas – Features a giant Dalmatian-spotted fire hydrant.
- Gator Country Adventure Park – See and feed alligators up close.
Where to Eat:
- Rao’s Bakery – A legendary Italian bakery and café.
- Floyd’s Cajun Seafood – The best place for gumbo and crawfish.
Special Tip:
Take a swamp tour to spot alligators in their natural habitat!
7. College Station
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
Things to Do:
- Tour Texas A&M University, one of the largest campuses in the U.S.
- Watch an Aggie football game for an authentic Texas college experience.
Places to Visit:
- George H.W. Bush Presidential Library – A must-see for history buffs.
- Bonfire Memorial – A tribute to Texas A&M traditions.
Where to Eat:
- C&J Barbecue – A Texas BBQ favorite.
- Dixie Chicken – The most famous college dive bar in Texas.
Special Tip:
Wear maroon if you visit on game day to blend in with the Aggie fans!
8. Waco
Drive Time: ~3 hours
Things to Do:
- Visit Magnolia Market at the Silos, created by Chip and Joanna Gaines.
- Explore the Waco Mammoth National Monument to see Ice Age fossils.
Places to Visit:
- Dr Pepper Museum – Learn about the Texas-born soda brand.
- Cameron Park Zoo – A scenic zoo with unique animal exhibits.
Where to Eat:
- Café Homestead – A farm-to-table restaurant with fresh ingredients.
- Health Camp – An old-school burger and milkshake joint.
Special Tip:
Arrive early at Magnolia Market to avoid crowds!
9. San Antonio
Drive Time: ~3 hours
Things to Do:
- Walk the famous San Antonio River Walk.
- Explore the historic Alamo.
Places to Visit:
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Market Square – The largest Mexican market in the U.S.
Where to Eat:
- Mi Tierra Café y Panadería – A vibrant Tex-Mex restaurant and bakery.
- The Esquire Tavern – The oldest bar on the River Walk.
Special Tip:
Take a boat cruise on the River Walk for the best sightseeing experience!
10. Austin
Drive Time: ~2.5 hours
Things to Do:
- Hike to Mount Bonnell for a panoramic view of the city.
- Check out the live music scene on Sixth Street.
Places to Visit:
- Texas State Capitol – A stunning historic landmark.
- Barton Springs Pool – A natural spring-fed swimming spot.
Where to Eat:
- Franklin Barbecue – Home to legendary brisket.
- Torchy’s Tacos – A local favorite for creative tacos.
Special Tip:
Catch the bat flight at Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset!
Day Trips from Houston
No matter what kind of adventure you’re seeking, these day trips from Houston offer history, culture, nature, and great food all within a few hours’ drive. Which trip will you take first? 🚗✨
