Since Texas is such a large state, it might not seem like there’d be many weekend getaways from Houston. But luckily, there are lots of exciting cities right in Texas, and some in nearby states too. You don’t have to leave Texas to get out of Houston because there are plenty of fun destinations within a few hours from it.
So, if you’re looking for some great weekend getaways from Houston, here are 11 options to consider.
#1 – Galveston, Texas
Galveston Island is a popular Texas attraction right along the water. It’s just under an hour from Houston, so people visiting Houston often check out Galveston too. Galveston has everything your family could dream of, including beaches, a waterpark, and an aquarium. It’s also known for the famous “Historic Pleasure Pier.” On the pier, you’ll find rides, carnival games, and lots of food. Galveston is full of waterfront activities that the whole family can enjoy.
#2 – Fredericksburg, Texas
Fredericksburg is just under a four-hour drive from Houston. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the city life. Fredericksburg is known for its German influences, cultural attractions, and nature charm. It has a historic downtown area, which has wine tasting and museums. It also has many parks for outdoor enthusiasts, including the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. This city is full of indoor and outdoor adventures, and it’s fun whether you’re with your family or on a romantic trip.
#3 – San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is one of the best weekend getaways from Houston because it’s another fun city in the state. It’s about three hours away, and it’s home to many famous Texas attractions. While visiting, you might want to check out the Alamo and the famous River Walk. Plus, there’s a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions to discover while exploring downtown San Antonio. Like many Texas cities, this location is full of gorgeous architecture, including historical cathedrals. You also won’t want to miss the rodeo show!
#4 – Austin, Texas
Austin is one of the biggest cities in Texas, so it’s no surprise that it has lots of fun things to do. This capital city is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Houston. It has a big live music scene, with over 100 live music venues. So, if you’re planning to visit, be sure to check out what artists will be performing. On top of the entertainment side, Austin also has a historic side, with plenty of museums, and of course, the capitol building. Like many cities, it’s also full of food trucks that you might want to try.
#5 – Brenham, Texas
Brenham is a lesser known Texas city, but it’s still worth a visit. It’s just over an hour from Houston, and it’s a peaceful alternative to the busy city. It’s the home of Blue Bell Creameries, so you’ll want to get some ice cream during your trip. It also has other quaint attractions, including a farmer’s market and an antique fair. Texas natives describe Brenham as a quiet small-town oasis, so it’s a great stop if you’re looking for a relaxing weekend.
#6 – Lockhart, Texas
Lockhart is known as the barbecue capital of Texas. So, be sure to visit with a big appetite. But this city is more than just loads of tasty meals. It’s also known for its beauty, which includes vibrant farmlands, calming waters, and historical structures. It has plenty of outdoor activities, such as horseback riding, kayaking, and fishing. But the hardest part of your visit will be deciding which restaurants to try out because there are too many to choose from!
#7 – Dallas, Texas
Like Austin, Dallas is another major Texas city with lots of popular attractions. It’s about three and a half hours away. It’s also one of the best weekend getaways from Houston because it’s very family-friendly. It has museums, a zoo, an aquarium, and even Six Flags! So, no matter what type of activities you enjoy, there’s something for everyone. Many people also visit this city to catch a Dallas Cowboys game or to attend live concerts and festivals.
#8 – Fort Worth, Texas
Fort Worth is near Dallas, but it’s a little further with a four-hour drive from Houston. Despite being overshadowed by or lumped together with Dallas, Fort Worth is its own city with its own activities. You can see unique attractions like indoor rodeos, cattle drives, and drive-in movie theaters. You can even tour a place that shows you how U.S. currency is made. Plus, Six Flags Over Texas is just as close to Forth Worth as it is to Dallas, so your family might beg to stop there as well.
#9 – Wimberley, Texas
Wimberley is a serene outdoor getaway that’s only three hours from Houston. It’s full of rivers, creeks, and forest areas. Some of the most popular nature spaces in this city are the Blue Hole Regional Park and the Old Baldy Mountain. It also has the famous Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well, which are natural swimming holes. And when you want a break from the outdoor adventures, don’t forget to enjoy some wine tasting and dining options.
#10 – Lake Charles, Louisiana
Not all Houston weekend getaways have to be in Texas, some can go from Texas to other states. Lake Charles is one of the closest out-of-state cities that you can visit with limited time. It’s just over two hours away, and it has plenty of indoor and outdoor attractions. You’ll find many museums, including the USS Orleck Naval Museum and the Mardi Gras Museum. Lake Charles is also home to the Lake Charles Symphony. Plus, there are lots of nature trails to explore with hundreds of bird species living there.
#11 – New Orleans, Louisiana
A trip from Houston to New Orleans might not be as quick as the other options, but it’s still worth it. New Orleans is just over five hours away, but it’s perfect if you’re looking to get out of Texas. New Orleans is located right on the Mississippi River next to the Gulf of Mexico. It’s known for its lively music events and parties, but it also has remarkable views. The best time of the year to visit is during Mardi Gras, where the city has a one-of-a-kind celebration.
Even if you love living near Houston, you might want to go on short vacations throughout the year. So, finding some weekend getaways from Houston can help keep life exciting for you. Hopefully, these 11 suggestions helped you feel optimistic about your future trips.
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