15 Best Day Trips From San Antonio To Revel Real Getaways of Texas

San Antonio is a country located at south-centred of Texas, which is hearty Tex-Mex food, Spanish missions, colourful river walks. And Texas has many places to visit, giving a big experience in your day trips from San Antonio.

Nearby destinations will retreat you with vibrant life, the historic cities offer breweries, a growing art district and plenty of shopping to see and do.

But sometimes it is good to leave the feeling of adventure in familiar streets and say bye-bye to the city of San Antonio with your car rearview mirror while the drive to the open roads for your weekend getaways.

The Lone Star State boasts many and beautiful big cities open spaces between them. Why not venture into Austin to enjoy live music, learn about our horizons in Houston or return to nature at one of the state parks in Texas? There are plenty of destinations and many things to do in Texas day trips from San Antonio.

15 Top Day Trips From San Antonio

1. San Marcos

Though this is only an hour out of San Antonio, still feels like a different world. Start off at the San Marcos Visitors Bureau. Day trips from San Antonio are little like New Braunfels as there is a lot to do over the water.

The San Marco River in San Marvelous is crystal clear, bubbling up from the Aquarena Springs and you can even swim, canoe, kayak, and tube. There are also glass-bottom boat trips, scuba diving and snorkelling on offer.

Spend the morning by the river, enjoy lunch in town and then perhaps take a walk, hike or cycle ride on one of the many marked trails in the San Marco Park.

You can also visit Dick’s Classic Garage Car Museum if you’re into old cars. There are several vintage stores in the town and one of the biggest retail shopping outlets in the USA.

No visit to San Marcos is complete without a stop at Middleton Brewing and enjoy with 13 craft beers brewed on-site. Take sunbath, a hat, good walking shoes, a swimming costume and a change of clothes.

Address:- 316 N Edward Gary St, San Marcos, TX 78666, United States.
Time to Reach:- 50 mins from San Antonio

2. New Braunfels

The new Braunfels not only flow with old-world charm but also offer the most amazing nature and entertainment. The drive for day trips from San Antonio is just over an hour and you can park in the small town and then go straight into the water.

There are two rivers, Komal and the Guadalupe which are beautiful for single or group swimming together. Enjoy tubing and kayaking, and there are tons of nature for walkers, hikers, and cyclists.

Downtown New Braunfels has a large selection of restaurants including a Waffle House and ice cream parlour, craft beer bar and farm-style delicatessens and even tons of speciality stores.

It is guessed, great emphasis on fishing! If considered as a fisherman then you will fall in love with the rivers. And if considered after a little adventure, fall in love with Schlitterbahn.

Wake up early in the morning, at the waterpark or in the bank of the river, spend a few hours while walking the city for lunch and then one-two hours and enjoy walking in the city. Take your swimming clothes so that you can swim over the water waves.

Suggestion to read:

• Places To Visit in Panama for Water Sports Enthusiasts and Eco-Tourists

Address:- 144 Landa St, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States.
Time to Reach:- 35 mins from San Antonio

3. Hamilton Pool Preserve

You can head over to the Hamilton Pool Preserve from Austin or make a separate day trip from San Antonio to this spectacular watering hole. About 2 hours from San Antonio, the 232-acre preserve is well worth the trek.

Visit during the winter to hike the trails and view the year-round waterfall spilling into the pool from 50 feet overhead is something mesmerizing.

Speaking of beauty even during summer, when the weather is hot and the water is cold. The collapsed grotto’s rocky overhang provides plenty of cool shade.

Due to the pool’s popularity, Travis County has established a reservation system. Make sure to reserve a time slot so that you might be turned away at the gate.

You can enjoy the preserve between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. or between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and you must pay $ 15 in cash or $ 11 by credit card online at the entrance.

Address:- 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620, United States.
Time to Reach:- 1 hour & 40 mins to reach Hamilton Pool Preserve

4. Nature Bridge Caverns

Here at Nature Bridge Cavern, you will discover a whole new world. It’s something different where you will feel like its a natural amusement park and perfect adventure for day trips from San Antonio for your weekend holiday.

Upon arrival visit the Visitor Center to manage where you can choose your tour, it may include underground caving, hidden trails, gem and mining tours, or lantern tours.

Above the ground, you can travel a canopy challenge, explore an open-air maze and watch Bracken Bait flying. There are many other-worldly structures here and if you have never gone underground, this is your opportunity.

Take your time, see the caves, enjoy a picnic lunch and plan about getting a ticket that gives you access to all the activities. Wear a pair of shoes and comfortable clothes as you have to hike long.

Address:- 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, United States.
Time to Reach:- 50 mins by car

5. Canyon Lake

The lake is a hidden gem best for day trips from San Antonio, just an hour late by driving away from San Antonio.

Going to Canyon Lake is a great family outing and all you need is a lot of sunblocks, a hat, swimming costume, towel, pair of clothes and a sense of adventure.

Grab one picnic spot and walks along the river, otherwise, head to the city where there are many lovely family-friendly restaurants and bakeries that fulfil the food craving.

If you want to spend the night, check out the Inn and Guesthouse, otherwise drive back home with that luxurious holiday feeling as its not soo far from San Antonio.

Address:- Canyon Lake, TX 78133, United States.
Time to Reach:- drive of 1 hour approx.

6. Austin

The city of Austin is not only the capital of Texas but an exciting and thriving city. About an hour and a half from San Antonio, the state capital, has full of best places to see and do numerous things for day trips from San Antonio.

This vibrant city, Austin is growing rapidly due to its creative expression and reputation for its stunning culinary scene. The first stop for food – and barbecue lovers in particular – should be the iconic Franklin Barbecue.

After you have a stack of Texas barbecue, visit the Natural State Capitol for a free guided tour of the building, as well as an overview of Texas’ political history (Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm).

Or you can wander up to the trendy South Congress Street, take a picture in front of the famous “I Love You So Much” article, and even more, you can taste the scoop from Amy’s ice cream.

In the evening, before popping into one of the city’s 250 music venues, you must come to watch the sunset at the head of Mount Bonnell, which includes everything from jazz to country.

Address:- 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States.
Time to Reach:- 1 hour & 20 mins to the city of Austin

Want more to know about the Capital then do Check-Out: Day Trips from Austin

7. Honey Creek State Natural Area / Guadalupe River State Park

Honey Creek State tours must be done with a ranger and there are guided tours only. There are nature and interpretive trails, creeks, canyons, hills, and valleys and the area is very beautiful. Take a hat, water and a love for spring wildflowers and beautiful views.

There is a fabulous Discovery Center for kids (and adults) from where you can pick up a trails map too. Take an extra set of clothes, swimsuit and hiking boots, sun hat and sunblock cream. There is a small shop where you can buy food, otherwise, take a picnic with you.

Address:- Spring Branch, TX 78070, United States.
Time to Reach:- 50 mins drive from San Antonio

8. Morgan’s Wonderland

A total novelty and heaps of fun, Morgan’s Wonderland is a relaxed and family-friendly day out for all for San Antonio day trips travellers.

Spanning an impressive 25-acres, Morgan’s Wonderland is one of the newest theme parks in the USA. Created by local builder Gordon Hartman, Morgan’s Wonderland was inspired by his daughter’s disabilities and desire to enjoy the same activities as other able-bodied children.

Visitors with special abled persons are welcome to enjoy the park for free.

Whether you visit for an hour or two or spend the whole day at the park. Suffice to say you’ll leave with a beaming smile and memories that will last a lifetime.

Address:- 5223 David Edwards Dr., San Antonio, TX 78233, United States.
Time to Reach:- just 20 mins from the city, San Antonio

9. Houston

Being honest, Houston deserves more than just one-day San Antonio day trips due to its size. However, even a day will provide a taste everything of the fourth-largest city in the United States has to offer.

Some of the city’s downtown attractions include the 500,000-gallon Aquarium; Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros; and the stunning Houston Waterwall Park.

If you only have time to do one thing, however, make it happen at Space Center Houston. Dedicated to space education, the centre provides a comprehensive look at the past, present, and future of space exploration.

Here, you can touch a genuine moon rock, tour a space shuttle, and — if you’re lucky — meet real astronauts. You can easily spend 3 to 4 hours perusing the many exhibits exploring a great experience.

After an afternoon of sightseeing, head over to one of the city’s many barbecue places or Tex-Mex joints before making the 3-hour drive back to San Antonio. Rudy’s Texas Bar-B-Q and Hugo’s Restaurant are some of the local’s favourites.

Address:- 3845 Cypress Creek Pkwy # 250, Houston, TX 77068, United States.
Time to Reach:- 3 hours approx.

Do checkout Day trips from Houston to know more about the city.

10. Corpus Christi

Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi, Texas, is about a 2-hour drive from San Antonio. As one of the closest beach towns to the Alamo City. It’s the perfect oceanside getaway for locals and even for day trips from San Antonio being visitors buzz.

In addition to the beach, one of the city’s most popular attractions is the Texas State Aquarium. It’s home to more than 460 species, and you’ll learn about coral reefs, dolphins, sharks, and stingrays, among other creatures. The aquarium helps to protect the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles that are native to the Gulf of Mexico.

You can also tour the USS Lexington, known for its participation in World War II battles. The ship features an onboard museum, a 3-D theatre, an escape room, a flight simulator, and a café. Several tours, including a self-guided tour, cover the ship’s history and significance

Address:- 4500 Ocean Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, United States.
Time to Reach:- 2 hours & 10 mins maximum to reach Corpus Christi

11. Big Bend National Park

For lovers of the great outdoors. The Big Bend National Park offers a welcome retreat from the bustle of San Antonio day trips for the visitors to embrace the joy of nature.

Emory Peak is the most popular hiking trail closely followed by Window Trail. Big Bend National Park covers the entirety of the Chisos mountain range and covers much of the Chihuahuan Desert.

If hiking is not your game but you do want to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Big Bend. Then take a ride through the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to the now-ruined, Sam Nail Ranch.

Big Bend National Park is home to some of the most photogenic landscapes in Texas. Be sure to charge your camera for some amazing photographs to be clicked.

Address:- Big Bend National Park, TX, United States.
Time to Reach:- quite long 5 hour of drive from San Antonio

12. Lockhart State Park, Lockhart, Texas

It is known as the ‘Barbecue Capital of Texas. This makes it a good reason for day trips from San Antonio. Four famous barbecue places add new meaning to the word hangar.

Armed with your hunger because the meat here is good and the servings are huge. There is also a Lockhart Prime Cowboys area where you can go horse riding, shoot a rifle, and go to Caldwell County Court. Heard stories of the old cowboy days, buy yourself a cowboy hat from Manny Gammage’s Texas Haters, and roam the streets of the city. You may well feel to consider challenging a duel.

When hunger is considered, and feeling starved. Choose one of these, Cruise Market, Smitty’s Market, Black’s BBQ, or Chisholm Trail BBQ to have some great soulful food. Before you leave, buy some cold cuts or brisket to meet up your non-veg craving.

Lockhart State Park is lovely and if you want to walk a bit of your meal, go for a nice hike before heading home. Take your wallet so that you can probably buy a new good leather.

Address:- 2012 State Park Rd, Lockhart, TX 78644, United States.
Time to Reach:- 1 hour & 10 mins approx.

13. Fredericksburg 

There is a real feeling of Germany in this town. And if you feel like indulging in a little European lifestyle for a day, head to Fredericksburg for day trips from San Antonio.

It’s a charming small-town, famous for its German heritage and food, but also famous for amazing shopping. You’ll find cowboy boots as well as German delicacies. There are some fantastic craft stores, boutiques, vintage shops, galleries, and specialty stores along Main Road.

Wander around and then head to Enchanted Rock, just a further 20 miles north, rumored

to be haunted by the ghosts of ancient Comanche and Tonkawa Warriors.

There is great walking, hiking, cycling, and fishing here too. Take your hiking boots, fishing rods, shopping for shoes, and an appetite. There’s plenty to do for the weekend trips from San Antonio.

Address:- 923 Sophia St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
Time to Reach:- 1 hour & 15 mins by car to Fredericksburg

Suggested To Read:

Best Places To Visit In Germany: Attractions That will Amaze You

14. USS Lexington

For travelers with an avid interest in maritime and military history, a visit to the USS Lexington would be something of a dream come true.

Nicknamed as ‘Lady Lex’, the USS Lexington is an early aircraft carrier that played a vital role in WWII. It is possible to take a guided tour through the gallows of the USS Lexington and above deck too.

The bay views from the top deck are pretty impressive. The cool fresh air of the sea, makes your San Antonio day trips more worthful for freshening up you.

After the excitement of the tour, you can take a rest and refuel at the Mess Deck Cafe where they serve a great selection of sandwiches, burgers, and sides.

Address:- 2914 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78402, United States.
Time to Reach:- 2 hours & 10 mins approx.

15. Davy Crockett National Park

This National Park is an easily accessible national park that makes for the perfect day trip from San Antonio.

Featuring towering pine trees and an abundance of birdlife there is so much to explore in this petite national park.

It is named after the pioneer and folk hero Davy Crockett who was known as the King of the Wild Frontier.

He famously said ‘be always sure you are right – then go ahead. So be sure to swing by the visitor’s center to find out which trail to take and then set out on an epic adventure in the name of this iconic explorer. 

Address:- 18551 Texas 7, Kennard, TX 75847, United States.
Time to Reach:- 4 hours & 30 mins approx.

Summary

After discovering the 15 best breathtaking day trips from San Antonio, you might already feel a tour of these places through this article.

Venture into nature trails to the foody lanes of the city. Each place is much better than the other one. You will feel such a memorable trip that will kick back your boring life with zest.

But all of these fascinating places are full of thrills and experiences to feel which can be felt much better if you make a plan to go there.

Safe travel!!!