summer day trips from dallas

30 Incredible Day Trips from Dallas

If you are looking for fabulous day trips from Dallas, Texas , you are in the right place!

It is no secret that Dallas, Texas, is a popular tourist destination.  

Dallas boasts incredible food, world-class museums, and a great nightlife scen e. 

All of this is probably why so many people also call Dallas home. 

Let’s face it, though; sometimes you want to get out of the city and explore other areas. 

There is so much to do in the Lone Star State. From exploring historic downtown areas of the small towns to hiking in state parks !

That is why we put together this post of Dallas day trips !

We have lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth area our entire lives, so we know something about getting out of the city!

Many of these day trips are about 1 hour and 2 hours away from Dallas, making them fun and easy ! You know you spend more than 2 hours just hanging out.

Luckily, most of these suggestions consistently make the list of the best places to visit in Texas also!

So grab your  road trip essentials  and explore this list of  day trips from Dallas .

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Table of Contents (Click to Unroll)

Day Trips Less Than 1 Hour From Dallas

Weatherford.

About 1 hour west of Dallas, Texas, you will find the historic North Texas town of Weatherford, Texas, which makes for a fabulous day trip! 

Visitors can spend the day exploring the Museum of the Americas, which serves to educate on the American Indian population that was found throughout North America.

You can also explore Chandor Gardens and Chandor Mansion and the first Monday flea market if you happen to be in town that weekend.

The first Monday flea market takes place the weekend before the first Monday of the month.

Don’t miss your opportunity to grab homemade ice cream from the Malt Shop in Weatherford!

Read Next: 30 Awesome Facts About Texas (Know Before You Go)

Head about 1 hour west (less than 50 miles) of Dallas , Texas, to Fort Worth. 

Now, locals (like us) will tell you that there is a definitive difference between Dallas and Fort Worth. 

We consider Fort Worth to be the more laid-back North Texas town. LOL!

There are so many  things to do in Fort Worth  that you could stay busy for weeks.  Fort Worth offers great food, awesome museums, an amazing cowboy culture, and fun nightlife. 

Head to Fort Worth’s Sundance Square to enjoy great food, museums, shops, and live entertainment. Sundance Square is brimming with things to do.

Grab a coffee and sit by the fountains in Sundance Square to do some people-watching before having dinner.

Foodies will love visiting the West 7 th  Street area of the city, and history lovers will enjoy exploring the Fort Worth Stockyards.

While in the Fort Worth Stockyards, you can’t miss visiting ‘The World’s Largest Honky-Tonk’, Billy Bob’s.

Billy Bob’s is a Fort Worth legend and the perfect place for live music and dancing for the evening.

Now that’s the honky-tonk life!

There are lots of honky-tonk bars in the Fort Worth Stockyards, so if Billy Bob’s isn’t for you, then check out another one.

Outdoor lovers will love visiting the Fort Worth Water Gardens, Trinity Trails, the Fort Worth Zoo, or the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. 

Also, don’t miss the Kimbell Art Museum and the Fort Worth Modern Art Museum.

Fort Worth is one of the easy day trips from Dallas and a great place to spend Christmas in Texas as it comes alive during the holiday season!

Read Next: How We Travel With Only a Backpack

Located less than 1 hour (about 30 minutes) from Fort Worth and Dallas, Texas, the city of Arlington is the entertainment mecca of this area. 

Arlington has sports teams, theme parks, and wonderful outdoor spaces.

Adrenaline junkies will love visiting Six Flags Over Texas theme park and Hurricane Harbor Waterpark.

Sports fanatics will be home here since the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys call Arlington home. 

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Canton and Canton Trade Days

Canton is just about 1 hour (about 50 miles) east of Dallas. 

Canton is best known for its monthly First Monday Trade Days, the largest flea market in the United States.

The trade days come to town the weekend before the first Monday of each month.

If you love flea markets, then Canton is the place to visit.

The Canton Trade Days flea market brings thousands of visitors to Canton each month. 

Don’t worry about missing the Trade Days; Canton has other attractions. 

You can visit Zip the USA and take part in one of the longest zip lines in Texas or get wet at Splash Kingdom Water Park. 

With Canton being just over 30 minutes from Dallas, it is one of the easy trips from Dallas !

If you want to stay overnight, there is a fun place you can try covered wagon camping in Canton!

Read Next : 20 Fun Things To Do In Galveston, TX

Ennis-The Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas

Head about 35 miles south of Dallas into Ellis County, and in just under 1 hour (about 30 minutes), you will find the small town of Ennis, Texas. 

We especially love to visit Ennis during the annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival every April. 

Here you can drive over 40 miles of trails riddled with the flower of the Lone Star State, the bluebonnet. 

It is truly a sight to behold, so bring your camera as it is a great place to see  bluebonnets in Texas and one of the unique day trips from Dallas.  

Read Next : 20 Fun Things To Do In Estes Park, Colorado

Chocktaw Oklahoma

Located in Durant, Oklahoma, Chocktaw Casino Resort is a quick 30-minute getaway from Dallas. 

Chocktaw not only offers all of the casino games you would expect, but they are also a AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel! 

Of course, they also offer live events and great food.

A short drive north from Dallas up I-35E and in just over 30 minutes will land you in the college town of Denton, Texas. 

Thanks to the colleges that call this area home, Denton boasts a good live music scene, a state park, museums, and more. 

The Denton Courthouse houses a museum, which rotates its exhibits frequently.

Denton Square has fun nostalgic shops, including a homemade ice cream shop!

Denton also has a thriving art scene and great outdoor activities, including museums, art galleries, Clear Creek National Heritage Center, and Ray Roberts Lake State Park.

This is another one of the easy trips from Dallas.

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Dallas Day Trips That Are a 2 to 3-Hour Drive

Davy crockett national forest.

Head just over 2 hours east of Dallas, Texas, and you will be deep in the heart of East Texas.

While East Texas has lots to offer, one of the highlights is Davy Crockett National Forest. Yes, we have a National Forest in Texas!

Davy Crockett National Forest comprises more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands.

This is a huge area of piney woods and one of the reasons that East Texas is referred to as ‘The Piney Woods.’

Davy Crockett National Forest allows you to enjoy miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and designated horseback riding trails, making this one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Read Next: Best Time To Visit Yellowstone

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park Oklahoma

About 3 hours from Dallas sits Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park in Oklahoma.

Nature lovers flock to the town of Broken Bow as it is home to Beavers Bend State Park, one of Oklahoma’s top state parks.

You can stay in a cozy cabin in Broken Bow to call your home base while you explore the Gardner Mansion and Museum, check out the historic downtown, and sip some wine at a local winery.

Of course, as we mentioned above, Beavers Bend State Park is the biggest draw to the Broken Bow area.

Beavers Bend State Park is a piney woods forest area with miles of hiking trails, biking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, river float trips, and more.

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park are some of the great trips from Dallas!

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is in North Texas, just under 2 hours from the Dallas metroplex.

Lake Texoma is situated on the Red River between Texas and Oklahoma.

Covering more than 74,000 acres, Lake Texoma is one of the largest lake reservoirs in the United States.

Lake Texoma is a water paradise.

While visiting Lake Texoma, you can enjoy all the water activities like fishing, swimming, and canoeing.

In addition, the Lake Texoma area offers shopping, spa treatments, restaurants, and nightlife you can enjoy.

All of this makes Lake Texoma one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Read Next: 101 Travel Experiences For Your Couple’s Bucket List

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is a gorgeous state park located about 3 hours from Dallas.

Visitors flock to Pedernales Falls State Park in the summer to escape the Texas heat by enjoying the Pedernales River.

In Pedernales Falls State Park, the Pedernales River flows over large outcroppings of limestone, creating the perfect environment to enjoy the falls.

Be careful ; the water levels vary according to rain and can get very swift .

Be sure and check the conditions before getting into the river.

Pedernales Falls State Park is a great place to camp, ride horses, do some geocaching, or relax!

This is one of the great day trips from Dallas!

Read Next: 15 Fun Things To Do In Hot Springs, Arkansas

Known as the Live Music Capital of the U.S., Austin is the place to be if you love live music. 

Austin also has a hip food and art scene, making it one of the best day trips since it is just 3 hours from Dallas to Austin!

There are so many  free things to do in Austin  that you could visit the city and spend very little money. 

You can spend the day touring the Capital Building, visiting an art museum, or enjoying nature without spending a penny!

If you decide to turn this day trip from Dallas into a weekend trip, then be sure to check out the  best places to stay in Austin  as well.

Austin is always one of the fun trips from Dallas .

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Davis, Oklahoma and Turner Falls Oklahoma

Turner Falls is located in Davis, Oklahoma, near the Texas border, making it one of the best day trips.

Head about 2 hours north of Dallas to find the city of Davis and Turner Falls.

Turner Falls offers a gorgeous waterfall, multiple swimming areas, and even trails to explore. 

A visit to Turner Falls is fun for all ages. 

Spend your day enjoying the water slides or just lounging on the sandy beach at Turner Falls. 

Turner Falls also offers cabins and camping if you want to spend the night.

Just note that Turner Falls gets extremely busy on holiday weekends, so we always avoid visiting then!

Located just over 2 hours from Dallas, Jefferson is well known for its historic homes that can be found throughout the city. 

Combine that with the museums, the Big Cypress Bayou, and the Texas charm of the city, and make it one of the great day trips from Dallas.

While visiting, you can tour some of the historic homes in the area or ride the Jefferson Historic Railway.

A major draw to this area is the Big Cypress Bayou, a series of wetlands at the edge of Caddo Lake.

The Big Cypress Bayou is said to have the largest variety of fish in any river in Texas.

People love to spend the day here fishing and kayaking.

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The lovely little lake town of Granbury, Texas, is just under 2 (about 1 hour and 30 minutes) from Dallas.

With a great little town square and a wonderful recreational lake, Granbury is the perfect place to head for a day trip in Texas.  There are so many  things to do in Granbury, TX  that you could stay busy for days!

Granbury has a great lake to enjoy. In addition, do some shopping around all of the cute boutiques, shops, and restaurants the Granbury Square. 

Arbuckle Wilderness-Oklahoma

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is located in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains in Davis, Oklahoma, about 2 hours outside of Dallas. 

This drive-thru safari park is definitely one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Arbuckle Wilderness is a treat located about 2 hours away from Dallas.

At Arbuckle Wilderness, you can enjoy feeding and interacting with their collection of exotic animals from the comfort of your vehicle.

Located on more than 200 acres and being open year-round makes a trip to Arbuckle Wilderness a fun time, anytime!

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Glen Rose and Dinosaur Valley State Park

Glen Rose is a great little town to visit for a day trip, especially since it is about 2 hours away from Dallas. 

Glen Rose boasts a unique history and an awesome Texas state park that is fun for explorers of all ages.

The biggest draw to this area is Dinosaur Valley State Park.

At Dinosaur Valley State Park, you can enjoy swimming in the cool waters of the Paluxy River, hiking over 20 miles of trails, and seeing some of the finest examples of dinosaur tracks in Texas.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is also home to miles of trails, and you can find horseback riding there.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is physical proof that dinosaurs once roamed in the Lone Star State years ago.

Of course, there are many other things to do in Glen Rose, TX, making it one of the best day trips from Dallas .

A visit to Hico, Texas, is like a day trip back into Texas’ past. 

This charming little town is a fun and easy day trip from Dallas as it is under 2 hours (really, it’s about 1 hour and 30 minutes) away.

Hit up Hico’s downtown area to explore the many boutique shops and restaurants that line the street. 

You can check out Siloville. 

Visitors can climb inside the silo walls and participate in a zip-line and ropes course.  The area also has a great golf course and some fun outdoor recreation.

Read Next : 12 Awesome Things to do in Marble Falls

You can get from Dallas to Salado in just about 2 hours. 

Situated on the banks of Salado Creek, Salado is a great escape for those that love art, antiques, and small-town charm.

Make your first stop at the 1.5-mile stretch of Main Street in Salado. 

Here you will find numerous shops housing antiques, clothing, home goods, and works from local artists. 

You can also check out the Salado Sculpture Garden and the historic Stagecoach Inn and watch a glass-blowing demonstration! 

Lake Murray State Park

Head about 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Dallas, and you will find the gorgeous Lake Murray State Park. 

This 12,500-acre park is more than half covered with Lake Murray.  

This state park is the perfect spot to enjoy some great outdoor activities. 

You can enjoy cooling off in the refreshingly clear waters of the lake or hike and bike on the many trails you will find on the state parklands. 

Waco-Magnolia Market and Dr. Pepper Museum

Waco has quickly gained popularity thanks to the popular HGTV couple Chip and Joanna Gaines thanks to their show Fixer Upper. 

While Fixer Upper has drawn many visitors to this Texas town, Waco has been popular far before. 

Located just over 1 hour from Dallas, Texas , Waco is an easy day trip!

Of course, you will want to visit Magnolia Market and get a cupcake from the Silos Baking Co.

Once you have your fill of Magnolia Market, check out Waco’s craft breweries, wineries, and even a distillery. 

While here, you can also explore the Dr. Pepper Museum and see the remains of a mammoth!

The Dr. Pepper Museum is a Lone Star State original (because Dr. Pepper was invented here), so don’t miss it!

Consider taking a bus from Dallas to Waco to save someone else’s driving.

This makes the trip quick and easy for you!

Head about 2 hours west of Dallas to find the fun town of Dublin, Texas.

One of our favorite places in Dublin is Dublin Bottling Works and the Dr. Pepper Museum. 

When you visit, you can grab lunch at their 50’s themed soda fountain before taking a tour of the bottling factory and heading to the Dr. Pepper Museum.

While you are here, shop downtown Dublin’s fun and quirky shops, like Things Celtic.  This store took us back to our time in  Ireland . 

Marshall is about 2 hours outside of Dallas, so why not try it?

You know you are in for a treat if you visit a town with an annual Fire Ant Festival. LOL!

Visitors to Marshall can enjoy shopping at the boutique and specialty shops you will find downtown. 

While in this area, take in the historic 1901 Harris County Courthouse and visit some East Texas wineries like Walker’s Mill and Enoch’s Stomp ! 

Day Trips That Are a 3-4 Hour Drive

San antonio.

Known for its Mexican heritage and awesome Riverwalk area, San Antonio is another one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Like Austin, there are so many  free things to do in San Antonio  that you can spend as much or little visiting this Texas gem.

Of course, the San Antonio Riverwalk is a must-do. 

Here you can enjoy strolling along the river or taking one of the riverboat tours.

Of course, you can’t miss the national historic landmark in San Antonio, The Alamo. 

After touring the Alamo, we recommend you follow the San Antonio Mission Trail and visit the other national historic missions within 30 minutes of the Riverwalk.

In addition, try visiting the Japanese Tea Gardens and the Pearl Brewery area.

Head about 3 hours and 30 minutes south of Dallas, and you will hit Houston, Texas.

Houston is one of the best day trips to experience incredible museums, great food, sports, and music.

You must visit the awesome Houston Museum of Natural Sciences, the world-famous Space Center Houston, and the Downtown Aquarium and catch a sports game at Minute Maid Park or NRG Stadium.

Of course, there are countless outdoor parks and green spaces to enjoy outside while visiting Houston.

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Colorado Bend State Park-A Texas Jewel

Head about 3 hours southwest of Dallas, and you will find Colorado Bend State Park.

A trip to this Texas state park makes you feel like you have been transported to another world.

Colorado Bend State Park is home to Gorman Falls, one of the most beautiful falls in Texas.

Standing under Gorman Falls makes you feel like you are in Costa Rica, not Colorado Bend State Park in Texas!

In addition to Gorman Falls, Colorado Bend State Park is home to Spicewood Springs, miles of hiking trails, and even caves!

All of this makes Colorado Bend State Park one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Boerne is one of the fun small towns outside San Antonio.

Visit the historic downtown and tour the shops before heading out into nature to enjoy the state park and caves.

Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Texas Hill Country at the Guadalupe River State Park or the Cibolo Nature Center. 

One of the most popular things to do in the summer is to enjoy tubing the Guadalupe River at the Guadalupe River State Park.

Boerne also hosts two caverns, the Cave without a Name and Cascade Caverns.

Read Next : 36 Fun Things to Do in Colorado Springs

Wimberley-A Great Art Community

Wimberley, TX, is about 3 hours and 30 minutes southwest of Dallas. 

Located near Austin, this artsy community packs a big punch for such a  small Texas town . 

There are so many  things to do in Wimberley, TX ; deciding how to spend your day will be hard!

Wimberly has several swimming holes, including Jacob’s Well, Cypress Creek, and Blue Hole.

You can do a wine tasting at Wimberley Valley Winery or an olive oil tasting at Bella Vista Ranch while visiting as well. 

Shoppers and art lovers will love the town’s many art galleries and boutique stores and will definitely think this is one of the best day trips.

Read Next : 3 Steamboat Springs Hot Springs You Must Visit

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is about 3 hours north of Dallas and packed with things to do. 

Oklahoma City has a fun entertainment area, many museums, and a great food scene.

Oklahoma’s Bricktown area has shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. 

If you are into street art, be sure and stop by the Plaza District and visit the Plaza Walls.

Oklahoma City is also full of museums. 

There is a State Firefighters Museum, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, and one of our favorite museums in this area, the Oklahoma Railway Museum.   

Another fun Oklahoma attraction is the Oklahoma elephant sanctuary, the Endangered Ark Foundation, which can be found in Hugo, Oklahoma.

Fredericksburg

We love the small-town feel, German heritage, and many  things to do in Fredericksburg .

There are so many  wineries in Fredericksburg, TX , that you could easily spend a week or more just tasting wine. 

While in the area, you should definitely check out Enchanted Rock State Park. 

This giant pink granite boulder is perfect for a day hike and a picnic. Note, though, this is one popular state park, so make reservations.

Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War and the Pioneer Museum before shopping at the many shops on Main Street.

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Dallas

There are so many day trips from Dallas that are within a 1 hour or 2 hours drive from Dallas !

We hope we have inspired you to explore the great areas within a short drive of the city! 

Comment below and tell us what to add to our trips from the Dallas list.

We still have lots of exploring in the great Lone Star State.

Happy Travel, friends!!

While You’re Here, Check Out These Other Texas Posts:

50 Awesome Texas Bucket List Experiences

15 Awesome Things to Do in Spicewood, TX

5 Great Road Trips in Texas

Eating Our Way Through Dallas’ Bishop Arts District

15 Fun Things to Do in Canyon Lake, TX

Romantic Getaways in Texas

Fabulous Lake Buchanan Cabins, RV Park, and Camping

25 Epic Things To Do In New Orleans

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Michelle Snell-Founder/Writer

Born and raised in Texas, Michelle Snell graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from the  University of Texas at Arlington  and her Master’s Degree from  Texas Wesleyan University . Her passion for travel has taken her all over the world. She has received multiple awards for her writing. She has been featured in numerous publications, including  Travel Awaits ,  Fort Worth Magazine ,  Fort Worth Weekly ,  NewsBreak ,  Voyage Dallas ,  Ella Inspires Magazine , and more. You can view her complete profile on  MuckRacks .

Monday 21st of November 2022

You didn't mention something cool about Murray Lake State Park. It has tons of buildings built in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps. This weekend we climbed up the Turner Tower, which was built by CCC/WPA with the intention of providing a weekend retreat for Oklahoma governors. It wasn't ever used for that purpose, but instead was opened as a museum. Today there is a museum of the WPA/CCC work at Murray Lake, as well as a mastodon skull and tusks shown there. Next to Turner Tower is a Nature Museum showcasing local wildlife. We had a great visit.

thattexascouple

Friday 25th of November 2022

Thank you for the this, Suzie. We will definitely check it out on our next visit.

Lana Paredes

Wednesday 1st of December 2021

I’m doing a little online research trying to find a quick holiday getaway , feeling quite nostalgic having visited many of these places as a child. When much to my surprise, I scroll down to read about the author and it’s an old friend! Good memories all around!

Saturday 4th of December 2021

Hi Lana!! Oh my gosh! It is so great to hear from you! I am so glad that you found our little piece of the internet. Please reach out if you have questions or just want to chat!!

Saturday 19th of June 2021

I lived in Dallas for a few months in 2018 for an internship, and I wish I had more time to explore the nearby cities. There's so much to see down south!

Monday 21st of June 2021

There really is. Maybe you can come back and visit!

I had no idea there were so many cool day trips from Dallas! The bluebonnet trail would be so amazing in full bloom.

Yes! They are so beautiful. It truly is one of my favorite times of the year!

Jacqueline Le

Monday 22nd of March 2021

Did not realize Oklahoma City could be done as a day trip from Dallas. I'd love to knock that one off the bucket list next time I visit Dallas. Also, Hico sounds right up my alley I love things that look historic so I can pretend I'm in a wild west movie hah

You would definitely love Hico. Oklahoma City is about a 4-hour drive so it is a long day but can definitely be done if you don't mind that. :)

48 Fun & Interesting Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

Have a long layover in DFW and looking for nearby day trips from Dallas?

Live in Dallas and need a short break from routine?

Discover our favorite Dallas day trips in this epic guide.

Dallas is a bustling city with an impressive skyline in the Lone Star State.

From Six Flags over Texas and the Fort Worth Stockyards to Oklahoma City and Lake Texoma, there’s something for everyone near Dallas!

Explore a small town in North Texas or sip wine in the Texas Hill Country wineries.

The options are endless!

Also Read: Best Things to do in Dallas

Best Texas cities & suburbs to visit on a day trip from Dallas

Looking for a way to escape Dallas but still want to enjoy urban attractions?

Plan a visit to one of these nearby Texan cities and suburbs to enjoy a relaxing day. 

Spend time in museums and art galleries and enjoy a fine meal on these urban day trips from Dallas.

Fort Worth is very close to Dallas, making it one of the perfect day trips from Dallas.

One of the major attractions in Fort Worth is the Historic Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.

The Fort Worth Stockyards are filled with historic buildings, cattle drives, and mock shootouts.

Fort Worth also has many museums including the Modern Art Museum of Worth Worth, Kimbell Art Museum as well as restaurants, bars, and shops to explore.

Also Read: 20 Romantic Date Ideas in Dallas

Arlington is a city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

It’s easily commutable from Dallas, and is one of our favorite day trips from Dallas for a variety of reasons.

Arlington is home to the University of Texas campus and the UTA Planetarium.

On a visit, kids can see a variety of interactive space themed exhibits and spot celestial objects through the telescope.

Watch a game at AT&T Stadium, visit one of the theme parks, go on a walking tour of the murals downtown, or see the Arlington Museum of Art.

If you’re looking for something outdoors, there’s plenty of fishing, boating, paddle boarding, and kayaking opportunities at River Legacy Parks, located on the banks of the Trinity River.

Denton is a great place to live because it’s so diverse.

The town is also one of the best trips from Dallas.

One of the best things about the city is that you can visit many different restaurants and find something for anyone’s taste.

The town has a lot of bike trails, parks, and festivals that happen throughout the year.

If you’re looking for arts and culture, there are many galleries in Denton, as well as an art museum.

You can also find historic homes in the Downtown area!

A highlight is the Old Alton Bridge, a historic iron truss bridge which makes for a charming photo op.

Frisco is a popular city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, and there are so many things to do!

This is the perfect place for people who love nature and exploring.

There are a lot of hiking trails, parks and fishing opportunities at Arbor Hills Nature Preserve.

Downtown Frisco has plenty of history, charm, and activities to enjoy.

Museums such as the Frisco Heritage Museum and National Videogame Museum are great to spend the day.

The city also hosts festivals throughout the year, including a holiday lights festival in December.

Grapevine is one of the best day trips from Dallas for the entire family because it’s surrounded by kid-friendly attractions, wineries, shopping, and restaurants.

In the heart of Grapevine , you will find a walkable downtown district that features charming historic buildings, a vintage railroad, shopping, and restaurants.

The city also has plenty of outdoor attractions, including water activities such as fishing and boating.

Grapevine is famous all over Texas for its Christmas celebrations, making this one of the popular times to visit the city.

Also Read: Best Places to Spend Christmas in Texas

Highland Village

Located near Lewisville Lake, Highland Village suburb of Dallas has a lot of things to offer visitors.

One of the most popular attractions is shopping and the many lakeside parks.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing at Pilot Knoll Park or LLELA Nature Preserve.

Irving is a city just outside of Dallas, and has many fun things to do!

There are lots of museums to explore, such as the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, which includes interactive exhibits about the life and career of George W. Bush.

The Irving Convention Center is also located in the heart of downtown Irving, and it has hosted many different events over the years.

If you’re looking for something artsy, Irving is home to multiple galleries and museums including the Irving Arts Center.

For the outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of parks and fishing opportunities. 

Irving offers a variety of restaurants to try as well as shopping malls if you’re looking for something new.

Grand Prairie

Grand Prairie is one of the great day trips from Dallas if you’re looking for shopping and culture.

It is home to a variety of historic sites such as the Pioneer Museum, which is a favorite with kids.

Texas Motor Speedway, one of the most iconic race tracks in Texas is also located here.

Check out the Crockett Civic Center where you’ll find plenty of live music shows, games, and activities for people of all ages to enjoy.

Plano is one of the best day trips from Dallas.

The city is only a few miles from Dallas and it’s home to many fun things to see and do for both kids and adults.

Plano has a variety of attractions that will make you want to plan a whole day just for this city.

There are plenty of unique restaurants, theatres such as Arbor Theatre, as well as outdoor activities in Plano.

Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas

Southlake has a lot of things to offer visitors.

There are family-friendly activities such as shopping and dining, nature, and outdoor recreation.

Shopping in Southlake includes rodeo shops, unique boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, and more.

There are also many lakeside parks that provide fishing opportunities and hiking trails.

Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities like camping, birding, photography, or biking.

Keller is a city in Tarrant County that offers visitors a variety of things to do.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like biking, birding, hiking, and swimming.

Visitors will also come across many lakes and streams which provide fishing opportunities for the more adventurous travelers.

The town also has a lot of shopping and dining opportunities including Keller Farmers Market, Shannon Brewing Company, and art galleries.

There are also restaurants throughout the area that offer meals with an eclectic flare from burgers to pizzas to tacos.

The city of Glen Rose, Texas is one of the best day trips from Dallas for families with small kids.

Glen Rose has many family-friendly attractions and museums as well as a charming walkable downtown district.

The highlights are Dinosaur Valley State Park and Dinosaur World, which are beloved by dinosaur crazy kids.

The Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose offers more than 500 acres of natural beauty in four different areas.

Visitors can see all sorts of wildlife, including buffalo, bison, deer, prairie dogs, and more on a drive through safari visit.

Visitors also have the opportunity to meet with a variety of animals and learn about their adaptations.

Waco is located on the Brazos River and offers nature, outdoor recreation, and history.

The Brazos River winds through Waco creating a natural barrier between the city’s east and west sides.

Lively downtown Waco offers a variety of shopping opportunities as well as local art galleries.

Outdoor activities include tubing, canoeing, hiking, biking, and camping.

Take a cruise down the river or visit the famous Magnolia market at the Silos or…..

….see the mammoth skeletons at Waco Mammoth National Monument or,

tour the Dr Pepper Museum to spend a fantastic day in Waco.

The Dr. Pepper Museum is sure to be a hit with any fans of the popular soda!

The interactive museum explores the history and mystery of Dr. Pepper by telling its story in four parts: History, Mystery, Taste and Adventure.

Visitors can taste dozens of flavors at the “Taste Lab” and learn about the soda’s past at the Dr. Pepper Museum.

Magnolia Market, from the show Fixer Uppers, is known for its homespun apparel, flea market treasures, and excellent food.

Waco makes one of the best day trips from Dallas for all types of travelers.

Best Dinosaur Attractions to visit on a day trip from Dallas with kids

Did you know that the Lone Star State has many dinosaur attractions for the littles?

Many of them are located close to Dallas, such as Glen Rose and Bastrop.

Take the kids out on one of these day trips to learn about the prehistoric beasts such as T-Rex and see the dinosaur skeletons, tracks, and fossils.

Also Read: Best Dinosaur Attractions in Texas

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Dinosaur Valley State Park is located in the town of Glen Rose, the Dinosaur Capital of Texas.

The dinosaur tracks were formed in the Paluxy river bed several million years ago during Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.

The fossil beds are considered some of the most significant of any kind in North America.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is a national treasure and favorite with all dinosaur lovers, making it one of the best day trips from Dallas.

It’s the only park of its kind where visitors can actually follow the trails and touch the preserved dinosaur tracks.

The park terrain is wooded and hilly with steep limestone cliffs. Other activities include biking, camping, and swimming in the river.

Dinosaur World, Glen Rose

The cool attraction of Dinosaur World in Glen Rose, Texas is not just for little kids.

The museum is one of the world’s largest indoor dinosaur attractions and features more than 40 life size dinosaurs in a natural environment.

Kids can learn more about the prehistoric creatures through interactive displays that teach them all they need to know about fossils and dinosaur life.

Visitors can also explore a museum onsite, view giant skeletons of some of the largest animals ever to walk the earth, and dig for dino bones!

Arlington Archosaur Site

The Arlington Archosaur Site is a fossil locality in the east Texas area.

It consists of a limestone outcrop containing the remains of terrestrial animals that lived about 195 million years ago during the early part of the Jurassic Period.

Visitors on this day trip can see fossils from some of the oldest mammals, crocodiles, and dinosaurs in North America.

Dinosaur Park, Bastrop

Dinosaur Park in Bastrop / Cedar Creek is the place where everyone in the family will have fun!

The kids can enjoy 2 miles of scenic nature trails, and the dinos will be waiting for them at the end.

Also Read: 21 Best Things to do in Bastrop, Texas

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, McKinney

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, located in McKinney, Texas is one of the best Dallas day trips.

Located on several acres of forested land, the Heard Sanctuary is an excellent destination to spend time with friends and family while learning about nature and wildlife.

In the museum, kids can see dinosaur skeletons and fossils.

They can also see exhibits about ecosystems of North America, explore the Texas coastal area and more.

There are also picnic areas and boardwalk hiking trails through the sanctuary.

The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is a fun-filled day trip from Dallas that can be enjoyed by all ages!

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco Mammoth National Monument is a national monument that is located in Waco, Texas.

The national park was created to preserve the remains of two American mastodons and Columbian mammoth.

The fossils were found around 60 years ago.

Visitors can view exhibits that show how these giants lived on earth.

Best Beach & Swimming Day Trips from Dallas, Texas

Looking to cool off and soak up the sun?

These are some of the best beach day trips from Dallas.

Joe Pool Lake Recreation Area

Joe Pool Lake is located in southwest Dallas County and is the perfect place to go swimming.

This is one of the largest lakes in Texas.

There are 3 boat ramps for watercraft, fishing jetties, and a swimming beach that is supervised during the summer time.

Lakeside Park in White Rock Lake

Lakeside Park at White Rock Lake offers beautiful scenery and a wide variety of outdoor fun for everyone.

This urban park has picnic shelters, an outdoor eating area and a half mile walking trail around the shoreline.

The White Rock Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing and swimming.

Burger’s Lake, Fort Worth

One of Burger’s Lake’s highlights is its sandy beaches.

In the summer, they are a popular summer attraction with people who come to cool down and have fun in the water.

This lake has sparkling-clean water and is spring-fed.

The area has picnic tables, play areas, diving platforms, and more making it a must-visit place during the summer.

Ray Roberts Lake State Park Beach

Ray Roberts Lake State Park is a scenic destination with a sprawling park and clean beach.

It has campsites and boat slips, too.

The park provides boating, swimming and fishing opportunities.

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma, located on the border of Texas and Oklahoma, is a fantastic day trip from Big D.

The main attraction of Lake Texoma is its vast size.

Lake Texoma has a lot to offer with 520,000 acres of water.

It also has 1,286 miles of shoreline, making it one of the largest lakes in Texas.

Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, camping, trails for hiking and biking, bird watching, and ATV riding.

Lake Texoma State Park is full of opportunities for outdoor recreation and even makes a great weekend trip.

Cedar Hill State Park

Cedar Hill State Park is a large park with beach and water recreation.

The park has hiking trails, paddle boat rentals, canoe and kayak launches, picnic grounds and a playground.

Little Elm Park

Looking for a great place to swim and have fun in the sun?

Little Elm Park is on beautiful Lewisville Lake.

It is a popular swimming, water-skiing, and fishing spot.

Campers can enjoy camping by the lake, too!

Tyler State Park Beach

Tyler State Park is a popular destination for swimming, boating and fishing.

The park has a wide variety of activities available including camping, picnicking and hiking.

It is located in Tyler, Texas at the northern shoreline of Lake Palestine.

Rockwall & Lake Ray Hubbard

Rockwall is a great destination for visitors who love jet skiing, sailing, and watersports.

The lake covers several acres of water that are open to boat-racing, fishing and swimming in the summer.

There’s also beautiful Lakefront Park with picnic tables, playgrounds and walking trails.

Six Flags Theme Park, Arlington

Arlington is known for its Six Flags theme park.

It’s a fun place to spend the day with your family.

There are thrill rides, water parks and wave pools making it popular to beat the Texas heat.

Best Dallas Day Trips for nature lovers

Dallas is known as one of the most visited cities in America and has plenty of attractions.

But sometimes it’s nice to just get away from all that metropolitan noise and into nature where you can unwind with some peace and quiet.

Here are our favorite hiking, camping, biking, and birding destinations near Dallas.

Davis, Oklahoma

Davis, Oklahoma is a town that has a rich history.

It can be easily reached from Dallas via I-35.

In addition to exploring the rustic charm of this old Western town, visitors can enjoy some of the recreational opportunities Davis has to offer.

The most popular outdoor destinations here are Turner Falls Park and the stunning wilderness of Arbuckle mountains.

Located in Davis, Oklahoma, Turner Falls is one of the state’s most popular spots for family vacations.

The natural waterfall is 78 feet high and it is surrounded by several caves with trails that lead to different faces of the falls.

Turner Falls Park also has fishing opportunities, birding, wildlife viewing, and picnic areas.

The Turner Falls are especially beautiful during the spring when they’re at their peak flow rate.

During the summer, Turner Falls are popular for cooling off and splash fun.

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is great for hiking and all kinds of outdoor adventures.

If you’re looking for a day trip or even a weekend trip close to Dallas, this is the perfect place!

Also Read: Best Things to do in North Texas

Caddo Lake State Park

This is a great day trip for people who love the outdoors and exploring. 

Caddo Lake State Park is located in Piney Woods region in East Texas, and it’s the perfect place for families.

The park includes walking trails, kayaking and paddling trails, fishing, and a lot of wildlife.

Kayaking on Caddo Lake and Big Cypress Bayou is amongst the best kayaking trips in Texas .

The scenery of bald cypress trees and Spanish moss on the Big Cypress Bayou looks stunning at dusk or during fall.

If you want to extend the trip, you can enjoy camping facilities as well as cabins on the lakefront and spend time in nature.

Beavers Bend State Park, Oklahoma

Beavers Bend State Park, located in Broken Bow, is a great place for family fun.

Kids will love the natural attractions, including scenic drives through the pine forests and wildlife encounters.

There are also horseback riding opportunities just outside of the park as well as opportunities to go birdwatching.

If you’re looking for something more serene, there are plenty of trails to explore in the park that are perfect for hiking.

The Fall colors at Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow are spectacular.

The trees display a variety of colors: oranges, yellows, and reds, making Broken Bow one of our favorite fall day trips from Dallas .

Ennis, Texas is a small town just a few miles southwest of Dallas.

The Ennis Bluebonnet Trails are famous during the spring season when visitors can enjoy close-up views of the fields in bloom.

The city parks also have other scenic drives and trails, and are a favorite spot for fishing.

Downtown Ennis, you will find historic buildings, murals, charming shops, and more.

Visitors come from all over to enjoy the scenery and outdoor activities that Ennis has to offer, and it’s a great place for groups with varying interests to have a good time together.

Also Read: Best Places to see Bluebonnets in Texas

Davy Crockett National Forest

The Davy Crockett National Forest is located in Rusk County, Texas.

The forest was named after the Texas hero Davy Crockett, who died defending the Alamo in San Antonio.

There are many opportunities for visitors to experience nature while at Davy Crockett National Forest.

There are great hikes that cover a variety of terrains and distances, as well as horseback riding and biking opportunities.

Visitors can see amazing wildlife including deer, coyotes, wild boar, raccoons, river otters and more in the Davy Crockett National Forest.

Visitors will also come across many lakes that provide fishing opportunities as well as primitive camp sites for outdoor enthusiasts looking to camp in an isolated environment. 

Best Small Towns to Visit on Day Trips from Dallas

Dallas is surrounded by several charming small towns that offer a glimpse into Texas’s history.

These adorable downtowns are a haven for cultural travelers.

Visitors can wander their historic streets, look for antiques, revel in the old-world charm, and have lunch at a delicious mom and pop restaurant. 

Here are our favorite small towns near Dallas.

Canton, Texas

Canton, Texas is a wonderful day trip from Dallas. 

The town is most famous for First Monday trade days. 

It’s the largest outdoor flea market in Texas, and is amazing for hunting for one of a kind treasures.

Canton is also filled with historic buildings – several of them have been designated as historical landmarks. 

For a fun day trip from Dallas that allows you to learn a little about Texas history, Canton is one of the best places to visit.

Granbury, Texas

Another charming small town near Dallas is Granbury .

There are many historical buildings in the Historic Granbury Square such as the Hood County Courthouse, Jail Museum, Railroad Depot Museum and more. 

Visitors can stroll around and shop for antiques, or grab some barbecue at one of the local restaurants.

Terrell, Texas

Terrell, Texas is a wonderful small town in Hunt County.

This former railroad town prides itself on being a quaint and historic place

There are tons of year round events that celebrate the culture and welcome tourists every year. 

Visitors can dine at quaint restaurants or relax at one of the many bed and breakfasts that dot the small town.

Greenville, Texas

Greenville, Texas is a wonderful historic town filled with beautiful architecture and old time ambiance.

There are many great ways to experience Greenville such as the American Cotton Museum, the Greenville Farmers Market, and the Landon Winery.

Athens, Texas

Athens, Texas is a small town known for the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center.

Here you can see the large collection of different freshwater fish species in tanks and exhibits as well as alligators!

There are several great dining options as well as unique shops to explore when in Athens.

Looking for something fun to do outdoors? Try ziplining or visit the Athens Scuba park.

The town is filled with history and classic architecture and makes a fun day trip from Dallas.

Rusk, Texas

If you’d like to escape to a completely different part of Texas, Rusk is the perfect day trip!

The town is known for its rich history and unique architecture. 

The primary attraction in Rusk is the scenic tour on the vintage steam train at Texas State Railroad to adjacent Palestine, Texas.

Palestine, Texas

Palestine, Texas is a great small town on the outskirts of Dallas.

During the Holiday Season, the Texas State Railroad conducts the Polar Express Ride from Palestine which is a hit with kids.

It has many attractions besides the famous Texas State Railroad ride.

In Palestine, you can visit the Museum for East Texas culture located downtown or take a tour of the historic buildings adjacent to the Anderson County Courthouse.

There are several antique stores as well as craft shops to explore while you are in Palestine.

Rusk, Palestine, as well as the railroad can be combined to create one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Salado, Texas

If you want to experience a small town with a truly unique culture then you need to visit Salado, Texas. 

This quaint little town is known for its artsy residents and upscale shops.

Salado is a wonderful place to window shop because it has a vast collection of interesting boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and wine tasting.

Visitors to Salado can spend an afternoon discovering this unique little town.

Jefferson, Texas

If you’ve always wanted to explore the attractions in the Piney Woods Region of East Texas , then Historic Jefferson is your best bet.

This quaint little town has several great historical buildings and a local downtown district that is perfect for shopping or dining.

Each year there are many events such as the candlelight tour of historic homes and the Christmas Parade.

Jefferson is also a great place to explore the scenic Caddo Lake.

If you’re looking for a quiet day trip from Dallas with lots of nature, this is the perfect place!

Best Major Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Dallas

You can also visit major Texas cities on a day trip from Dallas including Houston, San Antonio and Austin.

Here are some of our favorite cities to visit on a day trip from Dallas.

Austin, Texas

Austin is the state capital of Texas and also one of the most popular cities in Texas.

You’ll find Austin has a unique “weird” culture that contrasts with Dallas’ corporate styled city.

There are tons of great things to see and do in Austin, ranging from visiting the sprawling University of Texas campus or checking out the funky live music scene.

San Antonio, Texas

If you’re looking for a big city feel in Texas then San Antonio is the place to be!

The Alamo and RiverWalk are two of the most famous attractions in this Texan city.

This city has a rich history and is also filled with unique cultural traditions.

There are many great hotels, restaurants and shopping opportunities as well as live music entertainment in the city of San Antonio, making it one of the best Dallas day trips.

Houston, Texas

Houston is a vibrant modern city and a great day trip from Dallas.

You can visit the Houston Space Center or see some more modern attractions such as The Medical Center and Downtown District!

This city has several large museums, art galleries and performing arts venues.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Houston, Texas

Galveston Island, Texas

Looking for a true beach vacation near Dallas?

Galveston Island is your best bet!

Popular Galveston attractions include museums, beautiful beachfront resorts, and seafood restaurants.

Galveston also has an historic district with some great shopping opportunities!

If you’re looking to explore Galveston, be sure and take the historic Seawall Boulevard tour.

Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City makes an amazing trip from Dallas.  You can enjoy hiking, biking, camping or just sightseeing.

Popular attractions in Oklahoma City include  the Oklahoma City Zoo, The Myriad Botanical Gardens, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, and the Frontier City Theme Park.

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a must visit for those who love arts and the rodeo.

Also Read: Best Road Trips from Dallas to explore attractions such as New Orleans, Denver, and even Big Bend!

The innumerable day trips from Dallas are a great way to relax and have a fun day within a short time.

Whether you like history and unique architecture or artsy shops and upscale boutiques, there is the perfect day trip destination waiting to capture your interest near Dallas.

From historic Jefferson to bustling Galveston Island, you can find great options for Dallas day trips if you’re seeking an escape from city life.

Which one would make a good day trip destination from Dallas for yourself? Let us know in the comments below!

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• Day Trips from Dallas
• Trips From Dallas

28 Day Trip Destinations Up to 2 Hours Driving from Dallas

Get a break from the city and spend a different day in the amazing Dallas surroundings. Discover 14 small towns and 14 State Parks near Dallas ideal for a day trip!

Looking for a change of air but not in the mood for a sleepover? Browsing side trips within a short driving distance from Dallas? 

These 28 top day trip destinations near the city will do the job!

Say goodbye to boredom and enjoy a different scene exploring the rich and diverse Dallas surroundings. Discover surprising travel destinations as close as 30 minutes from Dallas, ideal for a quick day trip. 

Looking for things to do in Dallas as well? Check 52 ideas to enjoy a leisure day in DFW here . 

Planning to spend the weekend away? Explore the 16 weekend travel destinations up to 4h30 from Dallas .

Peek at our ideas below and start exploring DFW suburbs, neighboring towns and nearby nature preserves.

1. Glen Rose, TX

Distance: 75 miles/ 1 h 20 min from dallas.

Start your day exploring Fossil Rim Wildlife Center , Texas’ finest zoo safari and only a short driving-distance from Dallas.

Enjoy the 7.2-mile Gosdin Scenic Drive and stop along the way to admire wildlife and feed the animals. 

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Head to  Dinosaur Valley State Park to enjoy the rest of your day. Bring a picnic, hiking gear and a good camera – be prepared for great photo ops. And swimming suits and water shoes on summer.

Spend the day exploring the several and beautiful hiking trails and looking for real Dinosaur footprints along Paluxy’s river riverbed. During the excruciating Texas summer, cool off at beautiful swimming holes and river beaches.

Nestled in an area once part of an ancient ocean, Dinosaur Valley features real dinosaur tracks left millions of years ago, making this place incredibly unique and a must-visit destination from Dallas year-round.

Insider’s tip: dinosaur tracks are not always visible – it depends on the water levels – so check the State Park Facebook page in advance for current trails status and dinosaur tracks visibility.

Big Rocks Park

Have some extra time left? Pay a visit to Big Rocks Park , a beautiful and unique natural area featuring Big Rocks along the Paluxy River.

A cool place to contemplate nature, have fun climbing the rocks and cool off on summer. Best part? The access is completely free!

2. Piney Woods Wine Trail, TX

Distance: starting 70 miles/ 1h00 min from dallas.

With locations as close as one hour driving from Dallas, the Pine Woods Wine Trail features 19 Texan Wineries and Vineyards, offering experiences ranging from wine tours to wine tastings and onsite restaurants.

Visiting some of them is an amazing way of enjoying a different day in the Dallas surroundings, and one of the best ways to soak in beautiful East Texas.

Here you can find all wineries part of the Piney Woods Wine Trail, as well as the trail map. Click on each one of the wineries to check the activities offered, make reservations and plan your self-guided tour

3. Davis, OK

Distance: 130 miles/ 2h00 min from dallas.

Arbuckle Wilderness

Start off your day at Arbuckle Wilderness . Drive through the beautiful rustic zoo safari and feed the animals from your car.

Allow about one hour to fully experience it. Head then to your next stop, Turner Falls.

Turner Falls Park

On your way to Turner Falls stop by Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies to grab some delicious pies for a picnic.

At Turner Falls hike, visit the castle, explore the caves, go zip-lining and, weather-permitting, swim in the falls and adjacent swimming areas.

Turner Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oklahoma and specially gorgeous low-season – you usually cannot swim during the colder months, but you get to skip the crowds and enjoy this stunning nature setting at its best.

4. Island View Park - Pottsboro, TX

Distance: 85 miles/ 1 h 20 min from dallas.

Scenic Beach near Dallas

Life is better at the beach. And your best bet to bury your feet in the sand without driving long hours, is to head to gorgeous Island View Park, a little over one hour driving from Dallas.

By Lake Texoma shores, Island View features two beach areas. One with infra-structure including covered shelters and picnic tables, and another wilder – and more beautiful – with nothing more than white sand and the crystal-clear lake.

Bring a picnic, an umbrella, water shoes (the bottom is rocky) and enjoy a day by the beach right at the Dallas outskirts.

5. Waco, TX

Magnolia Market

Visit the town made famous by HGTV Fixer Upper show stars Chip and Joanna Gaines.

Start by exploring the couple’s Magnolia Market at the Silos , a shopping, entertainment and gastronomy complex. Have a cupcake at Magnolia Bakery, chill out playing lawn games and grab a bite at one of the local gourmet food trucks. Stroll through the store to check Joanna Gaines home goods selection.

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Head then to the nearby Waco Mammoth National Monument and tour a real excavation site featuring Columbian mammoth fossils. 

It is the only place in the world with an entire herd of Colombian Mammoths on display.

Cameron Park

For some outdoor fun, climb the short but steep Jacob’s Ladder at the beautiful Cameron Park.

The park is a gorgeous nature setting right in the middle of Waco, crossed by the Brazos River, with cliffs, picnic areas and trails.

6. Burger's Lake - Fort Worth, TX

Distance: 39 miles/ 0 h 45 min from dallas.

Not an Ordinary Waterpark

Memorial Day through Labor Day, this is the place to cool off and have a summer blast in the Dallas surroundings!

Burgers Lake is beautiful and sparkling clean spring-fed lake with sandy bottom, surrounded by two white sand beaches, lounge areas and picnic tables. It features slides, diving boards, trapezes and more.

A popular summer destination in DFW and a must for those looking for summer fun at its best.

Distance: 145 miles/ 2 h 00 min from Dallas

Chalk Ridge Falls Park

Only 10 minutes away from Downtown Salado, Chalk Ridge Falls is a beautiful nature area featuring a gorgeous waterfall, trails, swimming holes and even a small suspended bridge!

A must visit for nature lovers year-round, and an amazing way to kick off a leisure day in Salado.

Barrow Brewing Company

Head to Barrow Brewing Company for beer tasting. Grab a wood fired pizza from the onsite food truck and, on select days, listen to live music while enjoying it.

Salado Glassworks

Salado is known by its vibrant artsy community. And Salado Glassworks , right next door to Barrow Brewing, is one of the best places in town to enjoy it.

Stop by to watch artists blowing amazing glass pieces. Or dive headfirst into the experience and create your own masterpiece in one of the blowing events offered in the studio.

Main Street

Stroll down historic Main Street.

Explore its shops and art galleries. Stop by rustic and charming Salado Winery Co tasting room.

Prepare to head back home or, if you still have some energy left, have dinner at Barton House , an over 150 year old historic restaurant.

8. Tyler, TX

Distance: 98 miles/ 1 h 30 min from dallas.

Tyler State Park

Tyler is a home to the gorgeous   Tyler State Park .  

With a beautiful lake ideal for paddling and swimming and more than 13 miles of trails, Tyler State Park is a nature lover’s paradise any time of the year.

Nestled in the Pine Woods region of Texas, it is the closest place to Dallas to experience this unique environment and find yourself in the middle of the woods only a short drive away from the city.

Head to Tyler early in the morning and enjoy the day at Tyler State Park.

Bring a picnic or, summer-only, stop by Ham Orchards and grab a mouthwatering pulled pork sandwich and a pint of homemade peach ice cream to be enjoyed surrounded by tall trees.

Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary

Top off your day with a tour at Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary . Learn more about their rescue and rehabilitation programs and see the beautiful wild cats.

A wildlife preserve home to over 40 rescued big cats and other endangered species, Tiger Creek offers an inspiring and educational experience, only a few miles away from Tyler State Park.

9. Rockwall, TX

Distance: 25 miles/ 0 h 30 min from dallas.

Lake Ray Hubbard

Enjoy the day at Lake Ray Hubbard, one of the largest lakes in north Texas. 

Head to the  Chandler’s Landing Marina to rent a boat or jet ski and explore the lake. For a more modest budget, drive 10 minutes to Paddle Point Park on the neighboring town Rowlett and rent a kayak or a stand up paddle board to take an amazing leisure trip through Lake Ray Hubbard.

Later on, on a clear sky day, breath in an amazing sunset from The Harbor , a lakefront dining and entertainment district. Watch it from Gloria’s or Rodeo Goat’s patios while you have a margarita, a beer or enjoy a delicious meal at one of these top restaurants. 

Or on summer, for privileged views from the water, take a sunset cruise instead through Sail with Scott , and watch the sun going down while you sip a glass of wine and enjoy some snacks (BYOBF).

San Jacinto Plaza

At night, head downtown. 

On summer, listen to live music at San Jacinto Plaza while you enjoy a beer from Beer Geeks .

Any other time of the year, enjoy a few drinks or dinner at locals favorites’ Zanata or Bin 303

Distance: 35 miles/ 0 h 40 min from Dallas

Bluebonnet and Sunflower Fields

Flowers, flowers, and more flowers. If you are looking for beautiful Bluebonnet Fields on Spring and inspiring Sunflower fields on summer, Ennis is your destination.

Throughout April, the small town is home to the ‘Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas’, an over 40-mile long drive. It is one of the best places in Texas – and the closest one to Dallas among those – to spot these beautiful wildflowers protected by law and take that perfect Spring snapshot. 

On early summer, you can find beautiful Sunflower fields (check US 287 from Ennis to Wax late June for some beautiful photo ops).

Drive-In Movie Theater

A perfect spring or summer day trip to Ennis?

After driving through the beautiful Bluebonnet or Sunflower fields – depending on the time of the year you’re visiting – head to  Galaxy Drive-In Movie Theater  for an old-fashioned movie session under the stars.

11. Grapevine, TX

Distance: 22 miles/ 0 h 25 min from dallas.

Wineries and Wine Tastings

Explore local wineries, embark on a vintage train and stroll through unique shops and boutiques at Historic Main Street, in this charming small town less than half an hour away from Dallas.

For wine lovers, try Homestead Winery, Messina Hof Winery or Cross Timbers, all part of the Texas’ Grapevine Wine Trail  and located on or right off Main Street. Texas is – surprisingly for most – the 5th largest wine producer in the U.S, so if you love wine and have not tasted the Texas’ varieties yet, you are missing out.

Grapevine Vintage Railroad

To step back in time, hop on an authentic Victorian-era train from the 1920’s at the Grapevine Vintage Railroad .

Embark on a short 1-hour excursion – ideal for families with small kids – or take the long Cotton Belt Route ride instead, including a stop at the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Stroll along Main Street and explore quaint and unique shops. 

Stop by the Grapevine Olive Oil Co and Vetro Glass Blowing Studio and Art Gallery, to name a few.  For a quick – and delicious – bite, head to the Main Street Bistro & Bakery. For a treat, Dr Sue’s Chocolate. 

Christmas Capital of Texas

Grapevine is also the self-proclaimed Christmas Capital of Texas with over 1400 events happening in 40 days during this time of the year.

Some of the most famous not to be missed include the Ice! exhibition at the Gaylord Texan Resort , the Grapevine Vintage Railroad’s  North Pole Express® and the Carol of Lights street event.

12. Canton, TX

Distance: 60 miles/ 1 h 00 min from dallas.

The World's Largest Flea Market

Visit the largest outdoor flea market in the world and the oldest in the US at Canton, about one hour away from Dallas.

The First Monday Trade Days takes place from Thursday to Sunday before the first Monday of each month ( check the dates here ). It features over 5,000 vendors sprawled over 700,000 sq. ft. It is huge and a destination by itself. Plan to spend the whole day there. 

Spring and fall are the best times of the year to visit it – avoid summer at all costs, the heat can be excruciating! If possible, go on a Thursday to skip the crowds.  Wear comfy shoes and bring cash – there are tons of good food options on site and many vendors do not accept credit cards.

Canton’s First Monday is not your ordinary shopping experience. There you will find almost anything you can imagine and interact with vendors like in the old times. Prepare to treasure hunt, bargain, and walk a lot. If you like vintage stuff, collectibles, and antiques, you will love this place. 

13. Fort Worth, TX

Distance: 32 miles/ 0 h 35 min from dallas.

Sundance Square and Fort Worth Water Gardens

Home to the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards and to one of the best small museums in the US, Fort Worth is a perfect destination for a short day trip from Dallas – or even a staycation.

Start off the day with a brunch at the Sundance Square . Reata and Bird Cafe are some good restaurant options in the area.  Afterwards take a short walk towards the Sundance Square Plaza and head then to the beautiful Fort Worth Water Gardens .

Kimbell Art Museum

Visit the nearby  Kimbell Art Museum , a master piece of modern architecture. It is considered one of the best small museums in the USA.

There you will find world-class exhibitions as well as premium art pieces from the permanent collection, including Michelangelo’s first known painting as well as works from Miro, Picasso, Monet, and Rembrandt

Fort Worth Stockyards

Top off with a r eal rodeo championship , held every Friday and Saturday night year-round at the Fort Worth Stockyards. 

Or hit the floor at an authentic Honky Tonk instead – the Stockyards is home to Billy Bob’s Texas , the world largest honky tonk, and to the legendary White Elephant Saloon .

Coyote Drive-In

Or watch a movie under the stars from the comfort of your trunk – or lawn chairs – at Coyote Drive-In , an old fashioned movie theater offering live music on Fridays and Saturdays night.

A seasonal i ce rink is also available on site late November through mid-January.

14. Granbury, TX

Distance: 70 miles/ 1 h 15 min from dallas.

Historic Granbury Square

Explore Historic Granbury Square, considered one of the most beautiful in Texas. Stroll through unique shops, boutiques, cafes and visit the nearby museums.

Have lunch at Ketzler’s Schnitzel Haus & Biergarten or Christina’s Bistro – you cannot go wrong with any of them.

Local Goat Distillery and Barking Rocks Winery

Walk a few blocks from Granbury square and go tour or spirits tasting at Local Goat Distillery . 

Or hop in the car and drive a few minutes to Barking Rocks , a quaint winery and vineyard with beautiful grounds, offering wine tastings.

Granbury Beach City Park

Finish your day with a sunset at Granbury Beach City Park.

A well-kept white sand beach by lake Granbury and popular destination summertime, but also enjoyable any time of the year.

14 Texas State Parks up to 1h30 from Dallas

Distance: 0h25 to 1h30 min from dallas.

14 State Parks up to 1h30 driving from Dallas

In need of a nature fix? The Dallas surroundings are home to 14 State Parks, up to 1h30 from the city.

Gorgeous nature preserves, maintained by the government, featuring everything from hiking, horseback riding and cycling trails to swimming holes, lake beaches, rock-climbing areas and more.

Here you find all of the 14 State Parks you can visit in a day trip from Dallas , with distance and relative location to the city, links for reservations and insider tips to make the most of your visit.

My favorites? Tyler, Dinosaur Valley, Eisenhower, Lake Whitney, and Lake Mineral Wells.

The Dallas surroundings offer amazing day trip opportunities. And here you discovered great ideas to spice up your weekends and make you enjoy the experience of living in Dallas to the fullest!

Glen Rose, the Piney Woods Wine Trail, Davis, Island View Park, Waco, Burgers Lake, Salado, Tyler, Rockwall, Ennis, Grapevine, Canton, Fort Worth and Granbury are all amazing destinations up to 2 hours from the city.

Add the 14 State Parks up to 1h30 listed here to the equation and you got yourself 28 travel ideas to choose from whenever you feel like taking a break from routine!

What is your favorite day trip from Dallas? Share in the comments section below.

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27+ Incredible Day Trips from Dallas, Texas (2024)

Whether you want beautiful national forests or quirky small towns, these day trips from Dallas are all wonderful options to spend a day away from the hustle and bustle.

Take the boat out on Whitney Lake or spend time browsing the antique shops in Waco.

Discover the history streets of Granbury, or head to Tyler to learn more than you ever knew you wanted to know about rose cultivation techniques (and seriously, it’s fascinating!).

You can choose options that are a bit closer by, like Fort Worth, or you can really venture out to further flung destinations like the Davy Crockett National Forest.

There’s a treasure trove of Dallas day trips options waiting for you, whether you want just one or you want options for the future so you can keep exploring the great state of Texas using Dallas as a base.

Let’s get going!

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How to get around Dallas

Like most of Texas, the best way to get around Dallas is to explore on your own by car!

If you’re visiting and need to rent a car, we highly recommend Discover Cars where they find you the best car rental deals from all of the competitors (has saved us so much money!).

1. Waco, Texas

Waco , home to the famous Magnolia Market designed by Chip and Jo Gaines, has a lot more than just Fixer Upper history (though if you’re interested in that, this Fixer Upper tour is the best one!)

This bustling Texas town has everything from the esteemed halls of Baylor University to the electric atmosphere of a football game at McLane Stadium to a museum dedicated to the history of American soda!

There’s also plenty to do if you like the great outdoors, including walking the Cottonbelt Trail or exploring Brazos Park East.

Got kids with you?

The interactive exhibits at the Mayborn Museum Complex will keep them busy for hours, or you can enjoy the weather at the Cameron Park Zoo.

If you’re into shopping, Waco is home to plenty of the best antique shops, as well as Spice Village , an incredibly colorful market selling everything from knick knacks to home decor to Texas T-shirts!

Waco is relatively walkable, filled with culture, and a great place to go on a day trip from Dallas.

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 1 hour, 32 minutes

2. College Station, Texas

Football fans?

College Station is just the Dallas day trip for you.

College Station is home to Texas A&M , a giant university with a gorgeous campus and equally large stadium that plays home to Aggie football.

Really, College Station and Texas A&M go hand-in-hand, with most residents either being students, alumni, or otherwise related to the university.

Make sure to visit on a game day for the incredible tailgating opportunities (they’re super friendly!) or wander around the campus and check out all of the history, the superstitions, and the Aggie culture.

In fact, Kyle Field, where the Aggies play, is actually fifth largest stadium worldwide.

College Station is also home to the George HW Bush Presidential Library , as well as awesome barbecue places like C&J Barbecue .

It’s one of the longest day trips from Dallas, so you’ll want to get moving early!

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 2 hours, 48 minutes

3. Texarkana, Arkansas (and Texas)

From Dallas, you can actually reach other states in a day trip!

Texarkana , so named because it combines Texas and Arkansas, is a fantastic place to go if you want to be in two states at once.

Downtown Texarkana is walkable and historic, and while you’re there you’ve got to head to the Ace of Clubs House .

This House, built in 1885, is shaped like a playing card club and is a must-see.

There’s also other things to do, like the Museum of Regional History and the Four States Auto Museum.

If you’re hungry, stop at Zapata’s for some incredible guacamole and margaritas or try Pecan Point Gastropub for the burgers that you’ll talk about the whole ride home.

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 2 hours, 43 minutes

4. Cedar Creek Lake

Want to get outdoors and into the fresh air?

Look no further than Cedar Creek Lake , the best day trip from Dallas for anyone looking to soak in the Texas sunshine.

If you do want to hit the water, you’ll feel at home here as there are plenty of boating and fishing opportunities as it’s the fourth largest lake in Texas.

The lake is usually home to catfish year-round, and bass more in the springtime.

If you want to be on the water without the fishing, you can also go swimming in the coves or rent water equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, and pontoon boats.

If you prefer to stick on the shore, that’s fine too, just bring a picnic and watch the world go by.

This is a great way to stretch your legs and leave the city for awhile!

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 1 hour, 7 minutes

5. Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth is actually considered part of the Dallas metro area (hence the name “Dallas – Fort Worth” that is often used, but it is it’s own city as well!

It’s one of the closer Dallas day trips, which makes it super easy for families, and there’s one attraction here to rule them all: the Fort Worth Stockyards.

If you want to have a local show you around, this electric bike and BBQ tour is the best one in Fort Worth !

The Stockyards are a popular thing to do as it’s free to walk through them and you’ll feel the history of the cattle trade in Fort Worth as soon as you get there.

You’ll find saloon doors on every corner, lots of stores selling cowboy hats, and even the daily cattle walk through the streets.

Looking for some other options?

The Kimbell Art Museum has a wide European and Asian art collection, while the Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a great outdoor activity in Forth Worth on a nice day, as you can meander around the native plants and ponds.

When you’re hungry, stop by Panther City BBQ for some of the best smoked meats around or grab some burritos from Los Vaqueros.

There’s also the Fort Worth Zoo if you want to take the kids!

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 33 minutes

6. Wichita Falls, Texas

At just about 2 hours from Dallas, Wichita Falls is a fantastic day trip from Texas that makes you feel like you’ve really embarked on a trip, but it’s over before you get too bored in the car!

You might not have heard of Wichita Falls before, but it’s a must-see if you like quirky history.

Perhaps the most important attraction is the “ World’s Littlest Skyscraper .”

Yes, you read that right.

The story goes that this “skyscraper”, at only 40 feet tall, was actually part of a swindle from the developer who created blueprints for a skycraper 480 inches tall.

When he proposed it to investors, they didn’t ask questions and just automatically assumed it was going to be 480 feet.

That’s the local legend, at least, and today there’s an antique shop in the building to check out.

There are also some other things to do in Wichita Falls, including dining at the Highlander Public House or Gypsy Kitchen & Bar (you’ll find them downtown).

Stop by the Kell House to explore this historic home that was built in 1909 and still has some original furniture, or visit the Museum of North Texas History which focuses on Native American culture as well as the oil and gas industry within the region.

There’s also a dog park and people park at Wichita Lake Park if you want to stretch your legs after getting out of the car.

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 2 hours, 7 minutes

7. Texas Motorplex

Want to experience the thrill of cars zipping past you?

Drag racing is the name of the game at the Texas Motorplex, and the 1/4 mile strip is known for breaking speed records.

It’s an award-winning place with past awards from the National Hot Rod Association and plenty of passionate fans.

You’ll find it near Ennis, Texas, and this is a great day trip if you’re attending one of the other events like bike racing, rodeos, or concerts that are held here.

There’s food and amenities on-site, so you can just pack yourselves in the car and spend time here on a day trip from Texas.

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes : 39 minutes

8. Granbury, Texas

It’s all about the history in Granbury , consistently rated as one of the best small towns in Texas.

Spend your time experiencing the incredible museums, meeting new friendly faces, shopping in the boutique stores or marveling at the gorgeous architecture around town.

If you’re looking for the heart of the town, you’ll find the most social activity and events in the Historic Downtown Square.

Getting hungry?

Stop by the Filling Station downtown for hamburgers and fries that can’t be turned down.

Granbury is both historic and casual, where every corner feels like home and there’s a real feeling of community.

If you want to class it up a bit, spend the day at the art galleries and wineries, sipping local wines and experiencing the tasting rooms.

You can swim at Granbury City Beach Park along the Brazos River, or you can head indoors to the Bridge Street Historic Museum (focusing on Granbury’s history through the lens of a Granbury family) or the Hood County Museum.

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 1 hour, 17 minutes

9. Caddo National Grassland

Spend your day in the great outdoors at Caddo National Grassland, one of the most wonderful Dallas day trips if you’re interested in getting lots of open space and taking part in outdoor activities.

Go trail riding on horseback, or spend the night camping there to extend your day trip into a weekend trip.

Take part in fishing, hiking, archery, or bird spotting and enjoy the peace and quiet you’ll find here.

If you can stay into the night before driving back to Dallas, you’ll see so many incredible stars, as the dark skies over the grassland make for a sky perfectly illuminated by stars.

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 1 hour, 47 minutes

10. Davy Crockett National Forest

Another day trip for outdoor lovers from Dallas, the Davy Crockett National Forest actually became a National Forest in 1936 and has been providing a family-friendly place to become one with nature ever since.

Put on your hiking boots and walk all around the forest, or go fishing in the lake or enjoy a swim at Ratcliff Lake.

It was named for none other than of course, Davy Crocket, an icon of the “wild frontier” and you can even go primitive camping if you want to really get back to the basics.

Hiking lovers will enjoy the view from the Four C National Recreation Trail, and you can even go horseback riding on Piney Creek Horse Trail.

Keep an eye out for that wildlife, including turkeys, deer, and woodpeckers!

Make sure to “leave no trace” of your visit and take trash with you when you leave.

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 2 hours, 47 minutes

11. Lake Whitney

There’s nothing better than a day on the lake, and Lake Whitney is one of the best places near Dallas to do that!

Go kayaking on the lake for a peaceful, floating, endeavor, or take to the boat ramp and go boating across the lake (tubing, anyone?)

Lake Whitney is fed by the Brazos River, and there’s also camping options if you want to take in the campgrounds (for those who want a cabin, you’ll find them at McCown Valley Park nearby).

Pack some snacks and spend the whole day on the lake after pushing off at Cedar Creek Park boat ramp.

If you need any essentials, you’ll find them in the town of Whitney as they have grocery stores, an urgent care center, and even a sports bar if you want to catch a game before heading back to Dallas.

Make sure to practice water and boating safety for a great day out!

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 1 hour, 38 minutes

12. Angelina National Forest

At almost 3 hours, it’s definitely a day trip from Dallas you’ll want to leave early for, but if you have explored more nearby areas, this is one to check out!

This national forest is where you’ll find your inner peace, get your steps in on the hiking trails, or reconnect with nature with over 100,000 acres of recreational areas.

Birdwatchers absolutely love this national forest, and fishermen can check out the incredible lake with lots of things to catch.

There are marked trails for hiking so you can plan out your day, and return to Dallas both happy and ready for a good night’s sleep!

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 2 hours, 53 minutes

13. Tyler, Texas

The town of Tyler is fascinating for botanical lovers as well as families with kids!

This town holds the annual Rose Festival (dedicated to the one and only type of flower!) and you can visit the Tyler Rose Museum to learn more about the history of rose cultivation in the city.

There’s also the kid-friendly Discovery Science Place where the kids can immerse themselves in incredible exhibits that allow them to play pretend and learn more about the world around them, or you can head to the Cotton Belt Depot Museum which features the history of trailways in the area.

There’s also historic architecture, like the Goodman-LeGrand House.

If the weather is good, check out the Caldwell Zoo where you an spend the day seeing the animals and learning more about them from their keepers.

To finish off your day, head to Rick’s on the Square with incredible southern seafood that you’ll remember forever.

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 1 hour, 35 minutes

14. Sam Houston National Forest

Another national forest near Dallas, the Sam Houston National Forest is great for hiking and biking, and there are marked hiking trails for day hikes if you want to visit on a day trip from Dallas.

Find shady spots under the trees to eat lunch, or get out on the boat as there is a lake with great sunset views if the water is more your thing.

A lot of people don’t necessarily associated Texas with forests, but as we’ve shown, there’s a lot more than you would expect!

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes : 2 hours, 32 minutes

15. Eisenhower State Park (Oklahoma/Texas border)

While Eisenhower State Park is on the Texas side of the border, you can see Oklahoma over the water!

This state park has wonderful, well-maintained hiking trails, as well as biking or walking trails that take you around the lake.

You can go swimming in the lake, or rent a boat to take out from the marina.

There’s a gift shop with the bare essentials if you need them and some souvenirs, as well as plenty of spaces to eat lunch if you want to camp out at a picnic table.

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 1 hour, 26 minutes

16. Cooper Lake State Park

Another state park that you can reach in a day trip from Dallas is Cooper Lake State Park.

It’s particularly known for its stunning flowers in the springtime, and they also have a great fishing area.

This is more secluded than some of the other state park options, so if you really want to get out in the wilderness and clear your mind, this is the place to go.

It’s also easy driving distance at just under an hour and 30 minutes from Dallas.

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 1 hour, 27 minutes

17. Richland Creek Wildlife Management Area

Some people love going out into nature, but don’t need the paved nature trails that you’ll find in some state parks.

This area is a great glimpse into rugged Texas life, where you’ll find swamps, wetlands, and marshlands for miles.

It’s great for birdwatching, as well as other wildlife spotting (keep an eye out for the pigs!)

Distance from Dallas, in driving minutes: 1 hour, 31 minutes

18. Georgetown

Where can you find “the most beautiful town square in Texas?”

Right here in Georgetown , south of Dallas!

Take a casual stroll through historic downtown and view its Victorian architecture, including the Old Williamson County Jail and the courthouse dating back to 1911.

Get your dose of vitamin D on the waters of Lake Georgetown, a 1200-acre lake known as one of the best fishing areas in the region and a great place for boating, water skiing, fishing, camping, and swimming.

If swimming holes are more your style, make a splash at Blue Hole Park!

Open from 5am – 10pm, this scenic lagoon on the South San Gabriel River is a preferred summer wading spot for locals!

End your day trip with a tour of Inner Space Cavern , a vast “living” cave with hundreds of stalactites and ever-changing formations, and one of the best-preserved caves in Texas!

Driving distance from Dallas: 2 hours and 31 minutes 

19. Round Rock

Boasting the largest indoor water park in the country – Kalahari Resorts and conventions – Round Rock, Texas is one of the most fun day trips from Dallas there is!  

This 1.5 million square foot resort includes 30 waterslides, 20 pools, restaurants, an indoor adventure park, and artisan style retail outlets.

You could spend an entire day in Round Rock and never have to leave the resort!

But you’d be missing out if you didn’t experience the rest of what the city has to offer – like legendary 2lb donuts from Round Rock Donuts , a Round Rock Express baseball game at the 11,000+ capacity Diamond Dell stadium , and the annual downtown festivals!  

Before you leave, head over to Chisholm Trail Crossing Park to see the city’s namesake – a round rock jutting from the waters of Brushy Creek.

This rock indicated a low point in the water where settlers would cross with their wagons.

If you look closely, you can even see the wagon ruts in the rocks!  

Driving distance from Dallas: 2 hours and 40 minutes

20. Bend, TX

Bend is a great city for enjoying the great outdoors!

Located on the Colorado River, fishing is one of its main attractions.

Take a self-guided tour to Gorman Falls, a 70-foot waterfall (one of the best waterfalls in Texas ,) swim in Spicewood Springs, or tour one of the more than 400 caves in Colorado Bend State Park.

(Be prepared for a 3-mile round trip hike over rough, rocky terrain to see the beauty of Gorman Falls!)

Swim, bird watch, play volleyball and canoe at Sulphur Springs Camp !

Driving distance from Dallas: 3 hours

21. Sam Houston National Forest

About 2 hours south of Dallas, you’ll find Sam Houston National Forest, one of only four national forests in Texas.

The 128-mile long Lone Star Hiking Trail makes this a perfect hiking day trip from Houston.

The area’s mild climate means hiking is possible year-round!

Camp in one of three developed campgrounds offering showers and restrooms and proximity to hiking and biking trails and lake recreation.

Rent canoes and paddleboats at Double Lake, a 24-acre lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and picnicking along the shores.

Find convenient boat access at Scott’s Ridge Day-Use Area, a public boat ramp on Lake Conroe.

Fishing is plentiful in Lake Livingston, and with the right permit, hunting deer and small game is also an option.

Driving distance from Dallas: 2 hours and 37 minutes

As the fastest growing city in Texas, and bordered by Lake Conroe and state and national parks, Conroe, Texas is one of the best day trips from Dallas to find city life and scenic views all in one spot!

Boating, fishing, and watersports abound in the 22,000 acres of Lake Conroe.

Bring your own boat, hire a guide, or rent a boat from the many options available in the area.

Lakeside dining is plentiful and a great way to end a day trip on the lake.

If you’d rather stay on land, downtown Conroe is the place to be!

Entertainment, restaurants, antique shopping, breweries, theaters, and a unique arts scene bring the community to life!

Plenty of live music has earned the city the designation of Music Friendly Community by the state of Texas!

Driving distance from Dallas: 3 hours, 2 minutes

23. Nacogdoches

There’s no better place for an old-fashioned day trip than Nacogdoches, the oldest town in Texas!

Stroll leisurely through the red brick streets of historic downtown or hike miles of trails that once served as trade routes for Native Americans.

Sip your way through the city on the Wine, Whiskey and Brew tour, antique and dine through downtown at any number of family-owned shops and restaurants, or enjoy the outdoors at various parks, rivers, creeks, lakes, and sports venues.

History lovers will appreciate the historical landmarks and museums that trace the history of Texas and Nacogdoches.

Families can come together at the many family-friendly attractions, like Camp Tonkawa Springs RV Park, Splash Kingdom waterpark and Ellen Trout Zoo.

However you’re looking to unwind, you can find it here in Nacogdoches!

24. Abilene

From historic houses to storybook character statutes all around town (it is the Storybook Capital, after all!), Abilene is a wonderful day trip from Dallas, Texas.

Attend a concert put on by the Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra, visit the 1910 Swenson House for a history tour, or check out the 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum to learn about the heroism of this World War II divison.

Kids will fall in love with the animals at the Abilene Zoo, art lovers will enjoy the Grace Museum, and everyone will dig into a steak dinner at Lytle Land and Cattle Company to finish off your day.

Driving distance from Dallas: 2 hours, 42 minutes

25. Possum Kingdom Lake 

Located in Caddo, Possum Kingdom Lake is a 17,000 acre reservoir on the Brazos River. 

With 310 miles of shoreline, scenic coves, and clear blue water Possum Kingdom Lake is one of the nicest lakes in Texas. 

Swim in one of the many beaches. 

Near the dam, scuba dive as you explore caves and cut-outs with views up to 100 ft. 

Fish or swim at Hell’s Gate between the two 90-ft tall cliffs.

Rent boats to water ski, wakeboard, or go tubing with views of the picturesque cliffs and rocky bluffs at Possum Kingdom Lake State Park.

Hike along trails that wind you up along the rolling hills and limestone canyons and be surrounded by the untouched wilderness (be sure to hike to the top of the 90 ft cliff to see the breathtaking view!) 

See how many of the 280 species of birds you can spot. 

Driving distance from Dallas: 2 hours, 39 minutes

26. Lewisville Lake

For an idyllic and peaceful retreat, check out Lewisville Lake, just to the north of Dallas.

Visit the Tribute Shoreline Nature Trail, which has wonderful winding pathways through natural scenery right along the lakeshore (it’s relatively flat, so an easy path to walk).

Check out the pristine beach shores (bring a picnic to maximize your time out of Dallas), or head to Sneaky Pete’s, which is right on the water and features everything from incredible Americana food to volleyball courts.

If you want a golfing day out from Dallas, you can also check out the Stewart Peninsula Golf Course, one of the best in the area.

Driving distance from Dallas: 35 minutes

27. Wichita Falls

When you find yourself looking for day trips from Dallas, make sure to check out Wichita Falls!

When American settlers arrived in this area in the 1860’s this falls were a prominent feature of the landscape and the city itself was named for it but just 10 years later, a massive flood destroyed the water feature.

Have no fear though, just 100 years later, in the 1970’s, the waterfall was restored and now stands at 54 ft high and recirculates at 3,500 gallons of water per minute!

The falls themselves are visible to south-bound traffic on Interstate 44 but if you’re looking for a more natural experience, make sure to visit the nearby River Bend Nature Center which features nature trails and exhibits all about the surrounding area.

Driving distance from Dallas: 2 hours, 5 minutes

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27 Worthy Day Trips from Dallas: All Under 4 Hours!

So, you’ve finally got a day to spare in Dallas, and you’re itching to explore. No worries! 

There are tons of fun day trips from Dallas that are just a short drive away, like walking in real dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park or literally stopping to smell the roses in the small town of Tyler. Texas is a big place, but all the spots on this list are less than 4 hours away and ranked by distance.

I understand how tricky it can be to choose the perfect spot when you’re short on time. I used to juggle corporate with weekend escapes that were always just a bit too far away.

Fortunately, adopting the van living lifestyle let me work full-time while going all over the West Coast. So, after exploring all the best of Dallas during my month+ Texas adventure, here are my top picks for places to visit near Dallas that are just a short drive away.

Easy Day Trips from Dallas: Less than 1 Hour

1. fort worth, texas.

Distance:  ~32 miles/30 minutes  Type:  Urban Best Time to Go to Fort Worth:  Spring or fall

Merging the nostalgia of the Old West with urban sophistication, Fort Worth is more than just cowboy boots and rodeos. The Stockyards National Historic District, with its cattle drives and Western saloons, is the heart of cowboy culture and the chance to two-step in Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk. I personally went just to see the Fort Worth Water Gardens.

Fort Worth is worth visiting for its well-preserved history and art scene, and it is absolutely one of the quickest Dallas day trips to take. The city is a jewel for those wanting to experience the Texan bravado without straying too far from downtown Dallas. Also, if you’re an art aficionado, the Cultural District houses masterpieces by the likes of Warhol and Picasso.

2. Arlington, Texas

Distance:  ~20 miles/30 minutes  Type:  Entertainment Best Time to Go:  Year-round

Arlington is your go-to spot for thrills and spills. As the home of the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Rangers, you can catch a game and soak up the electric atmosphere at AT&T Stadium or Globe Life Park. The energy at the stadiums is contagious, regardless of whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in it for the hot dogs and halftime shows. 

Nearby, the Six Flags Over Texas offers roller coasters galore for those who dare to ride!

3. Denton, Texas

Distance:  ~40 miles/45 minutes  Type:  College Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring or fall

Feel the youthful energy and quirky vibes of Denton, a small town with a big personality that lies just north of Dallas. Known for its vibrant music scene, it’s often referred to as “Little Austin.” The town square is sprinkled with vintage shops, cool cafes, and upbeat music venues.

If you’re someone who delights in discovering local artistry and musical talent, the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University always make sure there’s something happening. Don’t miss the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival if you’re around in the fall.

4. Canton (Canton Trade Days)

Distance:  ~60 miles/1 hour  Type:  Shopping & Cultural Best Time to Go:  First Monday of each month

Experience one of the largest and most famous flea markets in the world! The First Monday Trade Days are a massive event that consumes the small town of Canton each month.

Canton Trade Days is worth it for its sheer scale and variety. You’ll find everything from unique home decor to farm animals for sale at this flea market. It’s a treasure hunter’s dream with the added bonus of hearty Texas food and live entertainment. Plus, the friendly Southern atmosphere makes it as much a social occasion as a shopping spree.

Best Day Trips from Dallas: Less than 2 Hours

5. athens, texas.

Distance:  ~73 miles/1.25 hours  Type:  Nature & Adventure Best time to visit:  Spring or Fall

Affectionately labeled as the “Black-Eyed Pea Capital of the World,” Athens, Texas, is set in the lush, green rolling hills of East Texas . 

Dive into freshwater fun at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center where fishing and interactive exhibits make a splash with the entire family. The East Texas Arboretum showcases nature trails and beautiful gardens.

Cultural curiosity is also satisfied with historical landmarks like the Henderson County Courthouse and the Athens Scuba Park for those up for underwater exploration. After working up an appetite, savor the local cuisine with down-home eateries that serve up more than just black-eyed peas. Think succulent barbecue and sweet slices of pie that taste like Southern hospitality.

6. Granbury, Texas

Distance:  ~70 miles/1.25 hours  Type:  Historic Town & Lake Retreat  Best Time to Go:  Spring to fall

Stroll around the well-preserved 19th-century buildings of Granbury. It’s an attractive spot for those who appreciate history, architecture, and a slower pace of life.

With Lake Granbury at its doorstep, pull up for a day of boating, fishing, or chilling on a lakefront bench. Add to that a lineup of unique boutiques, wineries, and cozy eateries, and you’re in for a treat. 

Check out Granbury Opera House for a show, and the night-time Ghosts and Legends tour is a must for a spooky encounter with the town’s past residents. 

7. Waco, Texas

Distance:  ~95 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Eclectic Attractions & Heritage Best Time to Go to Waco:  Late spring or early fall

Before going, I used to only know Waco from that miniseries, but it really is a hidden gem for those looking for an authentic slice of Texan life. 

Why should Waco be on your go-to list? For starters, it’s home to the renowned Magnolia Market at the Silos, birthed by the visionaries Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper” fame. Here, shopping, dining, and leisure converge, all set in a rustic, beautifully landscaped space. Here, you can sample some of the best food trucks in the area.

Learn something from the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum or the Dr. Pepper Museum, which is all about the nation’s oldest major soft drink. The Cameron Park Zoo has exotic animals, while the Waco Mammoth National Monument offers a jaw-dropping peek at the remains of mammoths that roamed the region thousands of years ago.

8. Tyler, Texas

Distance:  ~98 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Roses and Outdoor Activities Best Time to Go:  Spring for the Rose Festival or fall

Dubbed as the “Rose Capital of America,” Tyler, Texas is a city renowned for its enchanting rose gardens and charming historic district. Wander through the Tyler Rose Garden to experience one of the largest public rose gardens in the U.S., home to thousands of rose bushes and myriad vibrant blooms. It is especially breathtaking during the annual Texas Rose Festival in October.

Other than roses, go visit the historic Carnegie Library, the Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum, the contemporary exhibits at the Tyler Museum of Art, or go chill by Lake Tyler.

9. Lake Texoma, Oklahoma

Distance:  ~95 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Nature  Best Time to Go:  Early summer through fall

Straddling the border between Texas and Oklahoma, Lake Texoma is a massive reservoir, one of the largest in the United States, for fishing, boating, and windsurfing fun. It covers an impressive 89,000 acres.

Anglers from everywhere come to test their skills against this sought-after game, Striped Bass. But with over a hundred miles of shoreline dotted with scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds, Lake Texoma is a great spot to get into nature without venturing too far from the conveniences of the city.

10. Glen Rose (Dinosaur Valley State Park)

Distance:  ~80 miles/1.5 hours  Type:  Historical & Family Fun Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

Travel back in time at  Dinosaur Valley State Park  in Glen Rose, Texas, where you’ll find real dinosaur footprints preserved in the riverbed. Take a dip in the Paluxy River while keeping an eye out for these ancient tracks, or walk along the park’s hiking and biking trails.

For even more dino fun, visit Dinosaur World to see life-size replicas of various species and take part in interactive exhibits. At the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, you can drive through and see over 1,000 animals, including bison and giraffes, in their natural habitats. 

Nearby, there is another park filled with unusually large rock formations creatively named Big Rocks Park.

11. Mineral Wells Fossil Park, Texas

Distance:  88 miles/1.5 hours Type:  Outdoor & Nature Best Time to Go : Year-round

For the young or young at heart,  Mineral Wells Fossil Park  is a great spot for fossil hunting and learning about Earth’s history.

The park is open to the public, and you can keep whatever fossils you find. The park is a treasure trove from the Pennsylvanian Period, meaning you can literally pick up fossils that are over 300 million years old. Just BYOT – bring your own tools.

12. Paris, Texas

Distance:  ~100 miles/1.75 hours  Type:  Quaint Small Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring for the annual Dogwood Festival

Just a short drive from Dallas is a charming town named after its French counterpart. Paris, Texas, boasts gorgeous architecture with a mix of Victorian and Art Deco styles. 

Take a tour of the Eiffel Tower with a replica built in Paris, or visit the Red River Valley Veterans Memorial to pay tribute to those who have served our country. And there’s an annual Dogwood Festival in spring, where you can see thousands of blooming dogwood trees throughout the city. 

13. Dublin, Texas

Distance:  ~122 miles/2 hours  Type:  Small Town Charm Best Time to Go:  Spring for the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration

Dublin, Texas, may be a small town, but it is known as the birthplace of Dr. Pepper. You can actually go taste the original formula at the Dublin Bottling Works. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area to admire its collection of murals, or stop by the Ben Hogan Museum to learn about the legendary golfer’s roots.

Dublin’s annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration is a total highlight, complete with a parade and plenty of Irish-inspired activities. And for a dose of outdoor adventure, head to nearby Lake Proctor for fishing and boating.

14. Davis, Oklahoma (Turner Falls Park)

Distance:  ~130 miles/2 hours  Type:  Natural Landmark & Water Recreation Best Time to Go:   Summer for swimming

Turner Falls State Park  in Davis, Oklahoma, boasts the state’s highest waterfall, measuring at seventy-seven feet. This landscape set in the Arbuckle Mountains is filled with miles of trails, swimming, and photography. 

The waterfall isn’t the only attraction here; there are also caves, rock formations, and natural pools to explore. For those wanting to extend their stay, there are campsites and cabins available for rent. Plus, the nearby town of Davis offers a variety of restaurants and shops to complete your trip.

15. Texas State Railroad, Palestine & Rusk, Texas

Distance:  ~127 miles/2 hours Type:  Train ride and historical tour Best Time to Go : Spring through fall

Ride on the  Texas State Railroad , a historic train chugging through the piney woods of East Texas. The railroad has both vintage steam and diesel locomotives, with different themes for each car, such as the first-class First Lady or open-air coach Sunset Limited.

The trip includes a stop at an 1880s-style train depot where you can explore exhibits and watch a traditional train robbery reenactment. You can also opt for a themed ride, like the popular Polar Express during the holiday season or a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner train.

Dallas Day Trips: Less than 3 Hours

16. old zoo nature trails, cisco, texas.

Distance:  140 miles/2.5 hours Type:  Outdoor Adventure & Nature  Best Time to Go : Anytime except for during hunting season

Los Angeles isn’t the only place with an abandoned old zoo to wander around. If you’re up for some hikes in a unique spot, check out the Old Zoo Nature Trails in Cisco, Texas. 

Opened in the 1920s, the local residents were delighted to have some tourism come to their part of town. Despite its limited animal variety compared to today, people loved it. That is, until the zoo’s closure was triggered by a murder mystery involving a poisoned bear and suspicious deer deaths. 

Abandoned in the 1930s, a local nonprofit later transformed the site into a hiking trail. Visitors can still walk by the old enclosures, shelters, and staff offices, creating an eerie yet tranquil 1.5-mile track.

17. Austin, Texas

Distance:  ~200 miles/3 hours  Type:  Urban & Foodie Adventures Best Time to Go to Austin:  Spring or Fall

Probably better for weekend trips than an Austin day trip , I was surprised by how much I loved this city! I’ve since gone back three more times, staying 2 weeks to a month each. It helps when one of your best buds just became a homeowner.

As the state capital of Texas, Austin is a young city filled with fun activities, music, and delicious food, especially Terry Black’s Texan BBQ. Stroll South Congress Avenue to see street art, boutique shops, and tasty food trucks. Watch the bats fly out from under Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset (best in summer months). 

And, of course, paddleboard Ladybird Lake or catch a live music show along Sixth Street (Dirty Six) or at one of the many music festivals throughout the year, such as South by Southwest (SXSW) or Austin City Limits.

18. Caddo Lake State Park, Karnack, Texas

Distance:  168 miles/3 hours Type:  Water Recreation & Wildlife Watching Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

Caddo Lake  is a hidden gem in Northeast Texas, bordering Louisiana. This magnificent bayou is created by a 25,400-acre mix of swamps and ponds. Spanish moss hangs over bald cypress trees, and in winter, the moss turns silver, resembling long gray hair on the trees. Birds chirp, frogs croak, and alligators swim through the water. 

The lake’s rich history dates back to the pearl rush of 1910 when freshwater pearls were found in the mussels. The rush lasted three years until rising water levels made it hard to reach the mussels. Though the pearl seekers are gone, Today, most visitors journey by boat through the sloughs and ponds to fish, observe the birds, or search the murky waters for signs of its reptilian inhabitants.

Travel Tip:  Beware the alligators here!

19. Colorado Bend State Park

Distance:  ~186 miles/3 hours  Type:  Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

 Located in the scenic Texas Hill Country,  Colorado Bend State Park  is over 5,000 acres of stunning landscapes, rivers, moss, and caves. The park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and investigating the many caves within its boundaries. 

One of the highlights of the park is Gorman Falls, a 60-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. 

20. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Distance:  ~205 miles/3 hours  Type:  Urban Exploration Best Time to Go to Oklahoma City : Spring and Fall

Although it’s not in Texas, Oklahoma City is still a great option for a day trip from Dallas. The city has a rich history with the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, as well as the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, dedicated to the victims of the 1995 bombing.

For some family fun, visit the Oklahoma City Zoo or Frontier City amusement park. And Oklahoma is also quite famous for its barbecue joints. 

Dallas Day Trips: Less than 4 Hours

21. san marcos, texas.

Distance:  ~225 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go to San Marcos : Spring to fall

Located halfway between Austin and San Antonio, San Marcos is another great spot for river tubing on the crystal-clear San Marcos River. Although tubing here is a bit far from Dallas, I can attest to how fun this is, even if we got caught in a lightning storm the day we went. 

After a day of outdoor fun, head to one of the many local breweries or wineries for some craft drinks. 

22. Pedernales Falls State Park

Distance:  ~235 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go:  Spring and fall

Located just west of Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park is a peaceful retreat. The highlight of the park is the beautiful Pedernales River, which flows over limestone ledges and large smooth rocks.

Dive into the cool waters at the limestone falls, a local favorite for swimming and tubing, or lace up your hiking boots to explore trails that lead you to sunset views atop white cliffs.

23. Houston, Texas

Distance:  ~240 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Cultural & Urban Exploration Best Time to Go to Houston : Spring and fall

As the largest city in Texas, there’s no shortage of things to do on a Houston itinerary. This is another city that shocked me. I spent three days running around trying to fit everything in and just couldn’t, so this city might be better left for a longer road trip.

If you don’t get to anything else, go see the Space Center Houston to learn about NASA’s space exploration missions, or go see the immersive art at Seismique or famous works at the Menil Collection. Although it’s just a centerpiece for a park, the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is pretty darn cool too.

If you really want to spend another hour driving, you can reach the coast of Galveston Island. 

24. Wimberley, Texas

Distance:  ~230 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Small Town Charm & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go : Spring and fall

For a peaceful day trip with small-town charm, head to Wimberley. This Hill Country gem is known for its quaint shops, art galleries, and beautiful scenery. Take a dip in the amazing-looking Blue Hole or hike to Jacob’s Well, an artesian spring that is actually a submerged cave system that divers have explored to depths of over 100 feet!

Try a new activity at the Wimberley Glassworks for a glass-blowing experience and some of the delicious local wines at one of the many wineries in town. 

25. New Braunfels, Texas

Distance:  ~240 miles/3.5 hours  Type:  Water Recreation & Outdoor Adventure Best Time to Go to New Braunfels:  Summer for river tubing and water parks

Between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels is a popular summer destination for its two main attractions: the Comal and Guadalupe rivers. These beautiful bodies of water are a fun and popular way to beat the Texas heat with river tubing, kayaking, and rafting. 

You’ll see hordes of groups tie tubes together and float down the river, with packed coolers of beer and snacks. There’s also a city tube chute in town for a more intense experience.

If you’re more into traditional water parks, check out Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort or Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

26. Fredericksburg, Texas

Distance:  ~249 miles/4 hours  Type:  Small Town & Wine Country Best Time to Go to Fredericksburg : Spring and fall for Oktoberfest celebrations 

Known as the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a small town with a German background. Although best known as the Napa of Texas for its many wineries and tastings, you can also explore the historic Main Street or take a scenic drive to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. And try some German cuisine while you’re in town! 

During the spring, check out the beautiful wildflower fields, and in the fall, don’t miss out on their annual Oktoberfest celebration. I love bat caves, so there’s also a deserted railroad tunnel 10 miles away that’s home to up to 3 million bats if that’s something you want to see up close. 

27. San Antonio, Texas

Distance:  ~275 miles/4 hours  Type:  Historical & Family Fun Best Time to Go to San Antonio : Fall and spring

Now, this is starting to be a long drive, but San Antonio is a must-visit destination in Texas and a pretty small city good for one day . The city’s beloved River Walk is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with its beautiful waterway lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. You can also visit the historic Alamo for a lesson in Texas history.

 For some family fun, head to SeaWorld San Antonio or Six Flags Fiesta Texas for roller coasters and water rides. And eat delicious Tex-Mex food while you’re in town!

Final Thoughts: Best Mini Road Trips from Dallas

Isn’t it wild how much there is to see just outside of Dallas? This list should guide you to some surprisingly fun spots like Canton Trade Days or lead you to natural gems like Pedernales Falls State Park. 

And if you’re eager to explore other parts of Texas, don’t forget to check out our other guides on the Lone Star State.

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in Texas?

I’ve stayed with friends and vanlifed around, about, and through much of Texas. If you’re looking for more information on the Lone Star State, check out these other destination itineraries.

• One Day in Dallas Itinerary: Perfect First-Timers Day Trip
• One Day in Big Bend National Park Itinerary for First-Timers
• One Day In San Antonio Itinerary: What To Do In 24 Hours
• Perfect One Day In Houston Itinerary For First Timers

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

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• This Unique Desert is the Largest Gypsum Dune Field in the World! Here's How to Visit in One Day
• 12 Legendary USA Festivals You Must Experience at Least Once
• 11 Irresistible US Lakes to Cool Off in Before Summer's Over

30 Incredible Day Trips from Dallas

Posted on Published: August 8, 2020 Categories Texas

By: Author thattexascouple

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It is no secret that Dallas, Texas is a popular tourist destination.  Dallas boasts incredible food, world-class museums, and a great nightlife scene.  All of this is probably why so many people also call Dallas home. 

Let’s face it though, there are times when you want to get out of the city and explore other areas.  I mean, there is so much to do in the Lone Star State. From exploring historic downtown areas of the small towns to hiking in state parks!

Many of these day trips are about 1 hour and 2 hours away from Dallas, making them fun and easy ! You know you spend more than 2 hours just hanging out.

Lucky for you, most of these suggestions consistently make the list of the best places to visit in Texas also!

So grab your  road trip essentials  and head out to explore this list of  day trips from Dallas .

*This post contains affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you. That Texas Couple is also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Day Trips Less Than 1 Hour From Dallas

Weatherford.

About 1 hour west of Dallas, Texas, you will find the historic North Texas town of Weatherford, Texas. 

Visitors can spend the day exploring the Museum of the Americas, which serves to educate on the American Indian population that was found throughout North America.

You can also explore Chandor Gardens and Chandor mansion, and the first Monday flea market if you happen to be in town that weekend. The first Monday flea market has been taking place the weekend before the first Monday of the month.

Don’t miss your opportunity to grab some homemade ice cream from the Malt Shop while in Weatherford!

Head about 1 hour west (less than 50 miles) of Dallas, Texas to Fort Worth.  Now, locals (like us) will tell you that there is a definitive difference between Dallas and Fort Worth.  We consider Fort Worth to be the more laid-back North Texas town. LOL!

There are so many  things to do in Fort Worth  that you could stay busy for weeks.  Fort Worth offers great food, awesome museums, an amazing cowboy culture, and fun nightlife. 

Head to Fort Worth’s Sundance Square to enjoy great food, museums, shops, and live entertainment. Sundance Square is brimming with things to do. Grab a coffee and sit by the fountains in Sundance Square to do some people-watching before having dinner.

Foodies will love visiting the West 7 th  Street area of the city and history lovers will enjoy exploring the Fort Worth Stockyards.

While in the Fort Worth Stockyards, you can’t miss visiting ‘The World’s Largest Honky-Tonk’, Billy Bob’s.

Billy Bob’s is a Fort Worth legend and the perfect place for live music and to go dancing for the evening. Now that’s the honky-tonk life! Really, there are lots of honky-tonk bars in the Fort Worth Stockyards, so if Billy Bob’s isn’t for you, then check out another one.

Outdoor lovers will love visiting the Fort Worth Water Gardens, Trinity Trails, the Fort Worth Zoo, or the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens. Also, don’t miss the Kimbell Art Museum and the Fort Worth Modern Art Museum.

Fort Worth is one of the easy day trips from Dallas .

Arlington-One of the Easy Day Trips

Located less than 1 hour (really about 30 minutes) from both Fort Worth and Dallas, Texas the city of Arlington is the entertainment mecca of this area.  Arlington is home to sports teams, theme parks, and wonderful outdoor spaces.

Adrenaline junkies will love visiting Six Flags Over Texas theme park and Hurricane Harbor Waterpark and sports fanatics will be right at home here since both the Texas Rangers and the Dallas Cowboys call Arlington home. 

Canton and Canton Trade Days

Canton is located just about 1 hour (about 50 miles) east of Dallas. 

Canton is best known for its monthly first Monday Trade Days, the largest flea market in the United States. The trade days come to town the weekend before the first Monday of each month.

If you love flea markets, then Canton is the place to visit. The Canton Trade Days flea market brings thousands of visitors to Canton each month. 

Don’t worry if you miss the Trade Days, Canton has other attractions as well.  You can visit Zip the USA and take part in one of the longest zip lines in Texas, or get wet at Splash Kingdom Water Park. 

With Canton being just over 30 minutes from Dallas, it is one of the easy trips from Dallas !

Ennis-The Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas

Head about 35 miles south of Dallas into Ellis County and in just under 1 hour (really, about 30 minutes), you will find the small town of Ennis, Texas. 

We especially love to visit Ennis during the annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival that takes place every April.  Here you can drive over 40-miles of trails that are riddled with the flower of the Lone Star State, the bluebonnet. 

It is truly a sight to behold, so bring your camera as it is a great place to see  bluebonnets in Texas and one of the unique day trips from Dallas.  

Chocktaw Oklahoma

Located in Durant Oklahoma, Chocktaw Casino Resort is a quick 30 minutes getaway from Dallas. 

Chocktaw not only offers all of the casino games that you would expect but they are also a AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel!  Of course, they also offer live events and great food.

A short drive north from Dallas up I-35E and in just over 30 minutes, will land you in the college town of Denton, Texas.  Thanks to the colleges that call this area home, Denton boasts a good live music scene, a state park, museums, and more. 

The Denton Courthouse houses a museum, which rotates its exhibits frequently Denton square has some fun nostalgic shops, including a homemade ice cream shop!

Denton is also home to a thriving art scene and some great outdoor activities, including museums, art galleries, Clear Creek National Heritage Center, and Ray Roberts Lake State Park.

This is another one of the easy trips from Dallas.

Dallas Day Trips That Are a 2 to 3 Hour Drive

Davy crockett national forest.

Head just over 2 hours east of Dallas, Texas and you will be deep in the heart of East Texas. While East Texas has lots to offer, one of the highlights is Davy Crockett National Forest. Yes, we have a National Forest in Texas!

Davy Crockett National Forest is comprised of more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands. This is a huge area of piney woods, and one of the reasons that East Texas is referred to as ‘The Piney Woods’.

Davy Crockett National Forest allows you to spend the day enjoying miles of hiking trails, campgrounds, and designated horseback riding trails, making this one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park Oklahoma-One of the Best Day Trips

About 3 hours from Dallas sits Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park in Oklahoma. Nature lovers flock to the town of Broken Bow as it is home to Beavers Bend State Park, one of Oklahoma’s top state parks.

You can stay in a cozy cabin in Broken Bow to call your home base while you explore the Gardner Mansion and Museum, check out the historic downtown, and sip some wine at a local winery.

Of course, as we mentioned above, Beavers Bend State Park is the biggest draw to the Broken Bow area. Beavers Bend State Park is a piney woods forest area with miles of hiking trails, biking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, river floating trips, and more.

Honestly, Broken Bow and Beavers Bend State Park are one of the great trips from Dallas!

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is located in North Texas just under 2 hours from the Dallas metroplex. You will find Lake Texoma situated on the Red River between Texas and Oklahoma. Covering more than 74,000 acres, Lake Texoma is one of the largest lake reservoirs in the United States.

Lake Texoma is a water paradise. While visiting Lake Texoma, you can enjoy all of the water activities like fishing, swimming, and canoeing. In addition, the Lake Texoma area offers shopping, spa treatments, restaurants, and nightlife you can enjoy.

All of this makes Lake Texoma one of the best day trips from Dallas .

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is a gorgeous state park located about 3 hours from Dallas. Visitors flock to Pedernales Falls State Park in the summer to escape the Texas heat by enjoying the Pedernales River.

In Pedernales Falls State Park, the Pedernales River flows over large outcroppings of limestone, creating the perfect environment to enjoy the falls. Just be careful, the water levels vary according to rain and can get very swift. Be sure and check conditions before getting into the river.

Pedernales Falls State Park is a great place to camp, ride horses, do some geocaching, or just spend the day relaxing! This is one of the great day trips from Dallas!

Austin-Music Capital of U.S.

Known as the Live Music Capital of the U.S., Austin is the place to be if you love live music.  Austin also has a hip food and art scene, making it one of the best day trips since it is just 3 hours from Dallas to Austin!

There are so many  free things to do in Austin  that you could visit the city and spend very little money if you wanted.  You can spend the day touring the Capital Building, visiting an art museum, or enjoying nature without spending a penny!

If you decide to turn this day trip from Dallas into a weekend trip, then be sure to check out the  best places to stay in Austin  as well. Austin is always one of the fun trips from Dallas .

Davis Oklahoma and Turner Falls Oklahoma

Turner Falls is located in Davis, Oklahoma not far from the Texas border, making it one of the best day trips. Head about 2 hours north of Dallas to find the city of Davis and Turner Falls.

Turner Falls offers a gorgeous waterfall, multiple swimming areas, and even trails to explore.  A visit to Turner Falls is fun for all ages.  Spend your day enjoying the water slides or just lounging on the sandy beach at Turner Falls. 

Turner Falls also offers cabins and camping if you want to spend the night. Just take note, Turner Falls gets extremely busy on holiday weekends, so we always avoid visiting then!

Located just over 2 hours from Dallas, Jefferson is well known for its historic homes that can be found throughout the city.  Combine that with the museums, the Big Cypress Bayou, and the Texas charm of the city and you have the making it one of the great day trips from Dallas.

While visiting, you can tour some of the historic homes in the area, or ride the Jefferson Historic Railway.

A major draw to this area is the Big Cypress Bayou, a series of wetlands at the edge of Caddo Lake. The Big Cypress Bayou is said to have the largest variety of fish in any river in Texas. People love to spend the day here fishing and kayaking.

The lovely little lake town known as Granbury, Texas is just under 2 (really about 1 hour and 30 minutes) from Dallas.

With a great little town square and a wonderful recreational lake, Granbury is the perfect place to head for a day trip in Texas.  I mean, there are so many  things to do in Granbury, TX  that you could stay busy for days!

Granbury has a great lake to enjoy. In addition, do some shopping around all of the cute boutique, shops, and restaurants the Granbury square. 

Arbuckle Wilderness-Oklahoma

Arbuckle Wilderness Park is located in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains in Davis, Oklahoma, about 2 hours outside of Dallas.  This drive-thru safari park is definitely one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Located about 2 hours away from Dallas, Arbuckle Wilderness is a treat for sure. At Arbuckle Wilderness, you can enjoy feeding and interacting with their collection of exotic animals from the comfort of your own vehicle.

Located on more than 200 acres, and being open year-round makes a trip to Arbuckle Wilderness a fun time, anytime!

Glen Rose and Dinosaur Valley State Park

Glen Rose is a great little town to visit for a day trip, especially since it is located about 2 hours away from Dallas.  Glen Rose boasts a unique history and an awesome Texas state park that is fun for explorers of all ages.

The biggest draw to this area is Dinosaur Valley State Park. At Dinosaur Valley State Park, you can enjoy swimming in the cool waters of the Paluxy River, hike over 20 miles of trails, and see some of the finest examples of dinosaur tracks in Texas.

Dinosaur Valley State Park is also home to miles of trails and you can find horseback riding in the area. Dinosaur Valley State Park is physical proof that dinosaurs once roamed in the Lone Star State years ago.

Of course, there are lots of other things to do in Glen Rose, TX as well, making it one of the best day trips from Dallas .

A visit to Hico, Texas is like taking a day trip back into Texas’ past.  This charming little town is a fun and easy day trip from Dallas as it is under 2 hours (really its about 1 hour and 30 minutes) away.

Hit up Hico’s downtown area to explore the many boutique shops and restaurants that line the street. 

You can check out Siloville.  Here visitors can climb the inside of the silo walls, and participate in a zip-line and ropes course.  There is also a great golf course and some fun outdoor recreation in the area also.

You can get from Dallas to Salado in just about 2 hours.  Situated on the banks of Salado Creek, Salado is a great escape for those that love art, antiques, and small-town charm.

Make your first stop at the 1.5 mile stretch of Main Street in Salado.  Here you will find numerous shops housing antiques, clothing, home goods, and works from local artists. You can also check out the Salado Sculpture Garden, the historic Stagecoach Inn, and watch a glass blowing demonstration! 

Lake Murray State Park

Head about 1 hour and 30 minutes north of Dallas and you will find the gorgeous Lake Murray State Park.  This 12,500-acre park is more than half covered with Lake Murray.  

This state park is the perfect spot to enjoy some great outdoor activities.  You can enjoy cooling off in the refreshingly clear waters of the lake, or hike and bike on the many trails that you will find on the state parklands. 

Waco-Magnolia Market and Dr. Pepper Museum

Waco has quickly gained popularity thanks to the popular HGTV couple, Chip and Joanna Gaines thanks to their show Fixer Upper.  While Fixer Upper has certainly drawn many visitors to this Texas town, Waco was been popular far before that. 

Located just over 1 hour from Dallas, Texas, Waco is an easy day trip!

Of course, you will want to visit Magnolia Market and get a cupcake from the Silos Baking Co.  Once you have your fill of Magnolia Market, check out Waco’s craft breweries, wineries, and even a distillery. 

While here, you can also explore the Dr. Pepper Museum and see the remains of a mammoth! The Dr. Pepper Museum is a Lone Star State original (because Dr. Pepper was invented here), so don’t miss it!

Head about 2 hours west of Dallas to find the fun town of Dublin, Texas.

One of our favorite places in Dublin is Dublin Bottling Works and the Dr. Pepper Museum. 

When you visit, you can grab lunch at their 50’s themed soda fountain before taking a tour of the bottling factory before heading over to the Dr. Pepper Museum.

While you are here, shop the fun and quirky shops in downtown Dublin, like Things Celtic.  This store took us back to our time in  Ireland . 

Marshall is located about 2 hours outside of Dallas, so why not give it a try? I mean, you know you are in for a treat if you are visiting a town that has an annual Fire Ant Festival. LOL!

Visitors to Marshall can enjoy shopping at the many boutiques and specialty shops that you will find around the downtown area.  While in this area, be sure to take in the historic 1901 Harris County Courthouse. 

Day Trips That Are a 3-4 Hour Drive

San antonio.

Known for its Mexican heritage and awesome Riverwalk area, San Antonio is another one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Like Austin, there are so many  free things to do in San Antonio  that you can spend as much or little as you like when visiting this Texas gem.

Of course, the San Antonio Riverwalk is a must-do.  Here you can enjoy strolling along the river or taking one of the river boat tours.

Of course, you can’t miss the national historic landmark in San Antonio, The Alamo.  After touring the Alamo, we recommend you following the  San Antonio Mission Trail  and visiting the other national historic missions also, all of which are within 30 minutes of the Riverwalk.

In addition, try visiting the Japanese Tea Gardens and the Pearl Brewery area.

Head about 3 hours and 30 minutes south of Dallas and you will hit Houston, Texas.

Houston is one of the best day trips if you want to experience the incredible museums, great food, sports, and music.

Make sure that you visit the awesome Houston Museum of Natural Sciences, the world-famous Space Center Houston, the Downtown Aquarium, and catch a sports game at Minute Maid Park or NRG Stadium.

Of course, there are countless outdoor parks and green spaces to enjoy some time outside while visiting Houston as well.

Colorado Bend State Park-A Texas Jewel

Head about 3 hours southwest of Dallas and you will find Colorado Bend State Park. A trip to this Texas state park makes you feel like you have been transported to another world.

Colorado Bend State Park is home to Gorman Falls, one of the most beautiful falls in Texas. Standing under Gorman Falls makes you feel like you are in Costa Rica, not Colorado Bend State Park in Texas!

In addition to Gorman Falls, Colorado Bend State Park is also home to Spicewood Springs, miles of hiking trails, and even caves! All of this makes Colorado Bend State Park one of the best day trips from Dallas.

Boerne is one of the fun small towns located just outside of San Antonio. Visit the historic downtown and tour the shops before heading out into nature to enjoy the state park and caves.

Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Texas Hill Country at the Guadalupe River State Park or the Cibolo Nature Center. One of the most popular things to do in the summer is to enjoy tubing the Guadalupe River at the Guadalupe River State Park.

Boerne also hosts two caverns, the Cave without a Name and Cascade Caverns.

Wimberley-A Great Art Community

Wimberley, TX is about 3 hours and 30 minutes southwest of Dallas.  Located not far from Austin, this artsy community packs a big punch for such a  small Texas town . 

There are so many  things to do in Wimberley, TX  it will be hard for you to decide how to spend your day!

Wimberly is home to several swimming holes, including the famous Jacob’s Well, Cypress Creek, and the Blue Hole. You can do a wine tasting at Wimberley Valley Winery, or olive oil tasting at Bella Vista Ranch while visiting as well. 

Shoppers and art lovers will love the many art galleries and boutique stores throughout the town and will definitely think this is one of the best day trips.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is located about 3 hours north of Dallas, and is packed full of things to do.  Oklahoma City has a fun entertainment area, many museums, and a great food scene.

Oklahoma’s Bricktown area is full of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.  If you are into street art, be sure and stop by the Plaza District and visit the Plaza Walls.

Oklahoma City is also full of museums.  There is a State Firefighters Museum, Oklahoma City Museum of Art, The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum , and, one of our favorite museums in this area, the Oklahoma Railway Museum.   

Fredericksburg-One of Our Favorite Day Trips

We love the small town feel, German heritage, and the plethora of  things to do in Fredericksburg .

There are so many  wineries in Fredericksburg, TX  that you could easily spend a week or more just tasting wine. 

While in the area, you should definitely check out Enchanted Rock State Park.  This giant pink granite boulder is perfect for a day hike and a picnic. Take note though, this is one popular state park, so make reservations.

Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War and the Pioneer Museum before shopping the many shops on Main Street.

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Dallas

There are so many day trips from Dallas that are within a 1 hour or 2 hours drive from Dallas ! We hope that we have inspired you to explore the great areas that are located within a short drive of the city! 

Comment below and let us know what to add to our trips from Dallas list.

I know that we still have lots of exploring to do in the great Lone Star State.

Happy Travel, friends!!

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About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures.  While she is a professional educator by day, her passion for travel has her jet-setting all over the world during her free time. 

Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blog, That Texas Couple.  Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

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Jacqueline Le

Monday 22nd of March 2021

Did not realize Oklahoma City could be done as a day trip from Dallas. I'd love to knock that one off the bucket list next time I visit Dallas. Also, Hico sounds right up my alley I love things that look historic so I can pretend I'm in a wild west movie hah

thattexascouple

You would definitely love Hico. Oklahoma City is about a 4-hour drive so it is a long day but can definitely be done if you don't mind that. :)

Sunday 21st of March 2021

Did not know there were so many day trips you can take from Dallas. I would love to visit Texas to do a few of these activities.

You really should. Texas is such a great state with so many great things to do!

Sunday 23rd of August 2020

I would love to do all of these day trips! I have not been to Dallas or most of these spots so there are tons of great road trip ideas on this list. Hope to get back to the states once COVID sanctions are lifted :)

I had nooooo idea there were this many amazing road trips from Dallas!! I've only really been to Austin, the hill country & some of the surrounding springs, but every time I see a Tx blog, I realize more & more I need to spend more time in Texas... the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival is definitely on my list now.

You really should visit and explore Texas. I am so glad to hear that we have sparked your interest in our great state!

So many options in this place! I'll be honest, I've never had a huge desire to travel to Texas, but now that I know there are so many things to do, I'm sorry I wrote it off! I would love to see the Bluebells or go to Austin someday.

I am so glad we could change your mind. Texas is a fabulous place that is full of diversity. Give it a try :)

35 of the Best Day Trips from Dallas, Texas in 2024

January 7, 2024.

After four years living in Dallas, I’ve learned that there is so much to discover within a three hour’s drive. Welcoming tiny towns, beautiful parks, historic sights and more are waiting for you if you are willing to venture out of your neighborhood bubble.

I hope this list reminds you that opportunities to explore are everywhere and you might not have to travel far away to find your next adventure.

These day trips from Dallas are listed in order from closest to furthest when navigating from the city of Dallas.

Table of Contents

Weatherford, canton first mondays, go skydiving, dinosaur valley & glen rose, turner falls, daingerfield state park, jefferson + caddo lake, oklahoma city, colorado bend state park, wichita mountains wildlife refuge, dripping springs, final thoughts, day trips under one hour from dallas.

Fort Worth is an obvious but often overlooked destination near Dallas. The most iconic stop is the Stockyards: a historic district where you can watch the rodeo, drink in a saloon and experience a daily cattle drive.

Other great places to visit in Fort Worth include the Kimbell Art Museum , the Japanese Gardens and the Fort Worth Water Gardens . The Water Gardens are free and especially unique, as they are a large urban fountain that you can actually climb down into and explore (and stay mostly dry!).

After exploring the city, head to Joe T. Garcia’s for an iconic Tex-Mex dinner served on a gorgeous patio.

Grapevine is a charming small town centrally located between Dallas and Fort Worth. Main Street in Grapevine has so many shops, wineries and restaurants that you could spend hours stepping in and out of unique places. Some stops to make include the Messina Hof Winery , Main Street Bistro for brunch and the Grapevine Olive Oil Company to sample a wide selection of olive oils and balsamics.

You can also ride the Grapevine vintage railroad to Fort Worth or visit the House of Shine interactive museum to unearth your strengths, needs and more. Grapevine has also been nicknamed the “Christmas Capital of Texas” and is a great place to visit around the holidays.

Frisco is another suburb north of Dallas and is a great area for sports fans. It is home to the training facility of the Dallas Cowboys, the Frisco Roughriders minor league baseball team and the FC Dallas soccer team.

If you’re a Cowboys fan, walk around the Ford Center Frisco Star , which is full of restaurants, official Cowboys merchandise and outdoor tv’s. If you time your day trip correctly, you can also catch a Frisco Roughriders game. The minor league games are a lot of fun and there is even a lazy river in the stadium!

If you are interested in rail transportation, spend your day in Frisco visiting the Museum of the American Railroad to see an impressive collection of rolling stock.

For a post-exploring treat, grab one of the best doughnuts in DFW at Detour Doughnuts , enjoy soft serve inside of a taiyaki cone (a Korean dessert) at Somisomi or enjoy a giant gourmet cookie from Cookie Society .

Plano is a large suburb located just north of Dallas that offers some of the best outdoor activities in DFW. I recommend hiking in Arbor Hills or climbing the rope course at Go Ape .

Go Ape’s aerial obstacle course is a very adventurous outdoor activity that includes testing your balance, ziplining from the treetops and more, all with the safety of a fall harness. After enjoying the outdoors, head to quaint downtown Plano or bustling Legacy West for dinner, shopping and drinks.

Ennis is one of the best places near DFW to spot the famous Texas bluebonnets (the state flower of Texas)! Typically, the bluebonnets bloom throughout the month of April, and Ennis holds a bluebonnet festival during the third weekend of the month. During your visit, you can drive the bluebonnet trails, have a drink at Sugar Ridge Winery and pose for photos among fields of bluebonnets at the Meadow View Nature Park.

Denton is a college town with so much to explore. The city is located right next to the University of North Texas campus and has a charming and historic downtown square. During your trip, be sure to explore the downtown area surrounding the courthouse and stop into the various shops and restaurants.

LSA Burger is a great place for lunch, it’s an iconic spot on the square serving a variety of burgers with a strong Texas attitude. I also love shopping at Recycled Books Records and CDs for a huge selection of secondhand books, vinyl, movies and more. If you enjoy beer, be sure to stop at Armadillo Ale Works for a local brew in a large industrial space.

McKinney is yet another historic and beautiful small town located north of Dallas. Get a taste of the town by exploring the historic downtown area of McKinney and entering all of the wonderful shops.

Don’t miss Fair and Square Imports for home goods from all around the world and McKinney Hat Company for an authentic custom hat.

After shopping, visit Layered for brunch, Franconia Brewing Company for a beer or Hutchins for authentic Texas BBQ.

Weatherford, Texas is a beautiful small town near Fort Worth. For hiking or rock climbing nearby, be sure to visit Lake Mineral Wells State Park , which has awesome rock formations surrounding a lake.

After a morning of hiking, visit The Full Cup for coffee and the beautiful Chandor Gardens to immerse yourself in tranquil gardens full of fountains and waterfalls. Weatherford also has a great downtown area to explore, complete with murals, shops and more.

Cleburne State Park is one of my favorite day hiking trips from Dallas. The park has great hiking trails that offer a bit of challenge in terms of elevation change. The park also has a lake, an historic CCC limestone spillway and Texas bluebonnets in the spring.

If you still want to explore after hiking, visit the small town of Cleburne. Here you’ll find a Gone with the Wind Museum , a Railroad Museum and a museum all about the Chisholm Trail . When you get hungry, visit Burger Bar , La Cima or the Garden of Eating Bistro for a great meal.

Canton is a great small town in the Texas Piney Woods if you love deal hunting! Be sure to schedule your day trip to Canton on the correct weekend of the month to shop at Canton First Mondays. This is the world’s largest flea market and typically occurs on the first weekend of the month.

Canton First Mondays is the place to find handcrafted goods, clothing, antiques and so much more. There are food vendors, farm animals and other activities, so you can easily make a day out of this event. Admission is free. Downtown Canton also has additional shops and restaurants nearby.

Day Trips Under 2 Hours from Dallas

Just over an hour from Dallas, you can have an exhilarating skydiving adventure at Skydiving Dallas 35 . They offer regular and high altitude tandem jumps and it’s a great place to go for first time skydivers.

Athens, Texas is a small town east of Dallas offering a couple fun outdoor adventures. Visit the East Texas Arboretum for a beautiful garden display and go hiking at Purtis Creek State Park a few minutes outside of town. For a more exhilarating adventure, visit the New York, Texas ZipLine Adventures and fly from treetop to treetop while enjoying amazing views.

Denison is located next the border of Oklahoma, a little over an hour from Dallas. The town has a lot to offer, from Dwight Eisenhower’s birthplace to a beautiful downtown Main Street.

For outdoor adventures, visit Eisenhower State Park and Waterloo Lake Regional Park . Eisenhower State Park has picturesque rocky cliffs right along Lake Texoma and includes a beach, hiking trails and OHV trails.

Waterloo is a great place to hike, rent kayaks and search for caves. One of the best places to eat in Denison is Incubator Rail Yard , a food hall with a variety of different restaurants and a bar.

Waco is a college town known as the heart of Texas. One of the most popular things to do in Waco is to visit the Magnolia Market at the Silos, which you may recognize from the tv show Fixer Upper. At the silos, you can shop for home goods, enjoy a cupcake at Silos Baking Co and more.

Other fun things you should do in Waco include learning about the history of Dr Pepper at the Dr Pepper Museum , seeing mammoth bones at the Waco Mammoth National Monument and going hiking in Cameron Park . For a great American dinner, check out Brazos Bar & Bistro , Union Hall or Jake’s Texas Tea House .

The city of Tyler is the largest city in Northeast Texas and has a lot to offer. Many are drawn to the town for the annual rose festival in the fall or the Azalea trail in the spring. Year round, visit the 14-acre Tyler Rose Garden to see over 500 types of roses and other plants.

Other things to do include exploring historic downtown Tyler, enjoying a cup of coffee at The Foundry , learning about trains at the Cotton Belt Depot Museum or learning about planes at the Historic Aviation Memorial Museum. After some exploring, enjoy a drink at a large patio at True Vine Brewing Company .

Right outside of town, you can also hike in Tyler State Park . The park features a pine-hardwood forest that surrounds a man-made lake. You can swim, kayak, hike, mountain bike or just enjoy the outdoors in this Texas State Park .

Granbury is a small town on the outskirts of DFW that is home to a city beach along the Brazos River, a historic downtown, breweries and more. Spend an afternoon swimming in Lake Granbury or hiking at the Acton Nature Center.

For a drink, visit Revolver Brewing for a beer and live music, or Barons Creek Wine Room for high quality Texas wine. If you like German food, also check out Ketzler Schnitzel Haus and Biergarten for traditional German fare.

Dinosaur Valley is one of my favorite hiking day trips from Dallas! However, the park offers more than great hiking trails: it even has real preserved dinosaur tracks right along the riverbank!

While visiting the park, you can enjoy the hiking trails, swim in the Paluxy River and of course, see the dinosaur tracks! I recommend the Overlook trail for an amazing view of the river and valley below. After hiking, you can also explore the small but charming town of Glen Rose.

Another adventure nearby is Fossil Rim , a non-profit wildlife center that is dedicated to wildlife conservation and the protection of endangered animals. There are over 50-species of animals including giraffes, cheetahs and emu. To visit, you can either drive your own car through the wildlife area or take a guided safari tour. Dinosaur Valley also makes a great day trip from Dallas for families.

Hico ’s motto is “Where Everybody is Somebody” and you’ll feel right at home in the small town atmosphere. Start your day at 2nd Street Bakeshop or the Koffee Kup and then go shopping in some of the historic buildings. Blue Star Trading offers clothing, home decor and more in a restored building from the 1890s, and Hico Mercantile has a collection of vendors inside an 1895 Opera House. For drinks in town, enjoy a whiskey tasting paired with cheese at the Pecan Street Drink Shoppe or a glass of wine at Silver Spur .

Turner Falls is the highest waterfall in Oklahoma and just a couple hours north of Dallas. In the summertime, it’s a wonderful place to swim and relax next to the river. The park also has miles of hiking trails, caves and a quirky Rock Castle. Note that the admission to Turner Falls varies by season and is typically $16 per person in the peak summer months.

Paris, Texas is a small town east of Dallas known for historic buildings, great food and most iconically, a miniature replica of the eiffel tower wearing a cowboy hat.

During your day trip, visit the town square and see the beautiful Culbertson Fountain, find Jesus wearing cowboy boots in the Evergreen Cemetery and learn about the local history in the town’s historic sights. When you get hungry, enjoy a pastry from Paris Bakery or street corn followed by gelato at Street Eats Paris .

Clifton is a small town with a population under 4,000 that has been nicknamed “The Norwegian Capital of Texas.” Learn the history of the area at the Bosque Museum , catch a show at the historic Cliftex Theatre and explore the historic downtown full of antique shops, galleries and restaurants. If you appreciate wine, stop in at the Red Caboose Winery for a tasting and a cheese platter.

Day Trips Under 3 Hours from Dallas

Dublin, Texas is nicknamed the “Irish Capital of Texas” and there is evidence all around town with four leaf clovers, Irish shops and more. One of the best things to do in Dublin is to visit the Dublin Bottling Works . In this historic soda bottling facility, you can tour the bottling line, have a soda at Old Doc’s Soda Shop and see Dr. Pepper memorabilia at the Dr. Pepper Museum.

Another great place to visit is Veldhuizen Farm , where you can take a cheese making tour of a family run farm. During the tour, you will learn all about cheese making and finish with a cheese tasting paired with wine. Finally, visit Lucky Vines Winery and enjoy wine in a light and airy space.

Salado makes for a great day trips from Dallas for couples! Salado is a small town north of Austin full of art, wineries and riverside views. Spend your day watching a glass demonstration at Salado Glassworks , swimming in the Salado Creek or exploring the Salado Sculpture Garden.

For a unique and quick stop, don’t miss the historic Salado College Ruins in town either. For drinks and food, visit Salado Winery , The Shed or Barrow Brewing Company .

Daingerfield is a small but very charming North Texas state park. Visit year round to enjoy the hiking trails, which total 3.6 miles and include lake views and forest scenery.

In the summertime, you can swim and paddle in the lake, while in the fall, the park has nice fall foliage. It’s a beautiful park that is perfect for relaxing in nature and packing a picnic lunch.

Georgetown is a town on the edge of Texas Hill Country known for its red poppies in the spring, beautiful town square and variety of outdoor activities. Hike to the gorgeous Crochet Garden Falls in Cedar Breaks Park, go swimming at the Blue Hole and explore underground at the Inner Space Caverns .

When you’ve worked up an appetite, visit the retro-feeling Monument Cafe or enjoy a farm-to-table experience at 2020 Market Scratch Kitchen & Bar .

Brownwood is a small town in central Texas with a lot to offer. Go hiking and enjoy the views in Lake Brownwood State Park , where you can see historic buildings built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, see wildlife and enjoy nature.

After exploring the park, head into Brownwood where you can eat in a train car at the Runaway Train Cafe, walk through an arch of books at Intermission Bookshop and enjoy the many murals that the town has to offer.

Caddo Lake is a mysteriously beautiful lake right on the border of Louisiana. To visit, either head to the town of Uncertain, Texas and take a guided boat tour of the lake, or visit Caddo Lake State Park and rent a kayak to explore Mill Pond, a portion of the lake full of lily pads.

Just a few minutes away from the lake is the historic town of Jefferson, which used to be a major port city in the mid-1800s. In Jefferson, you can go on a ghost tour, explore the antique stores, get a view of the Howe Truss Train Trestle Bridge and more. Be sure to check out the Jefferson General Store for gifts and Kitt’s Kornbread Sandwich and Pie Bar for comfort food.

Austin has way more to offer than can be seen in one day, but if you don’t want to spend the night, a day trip is still a good option!

If you have only one day, I recommend checking out some of the Austin must-do’s like shopping on South Congress Ave, swimming in Barton Springs and eating tacos or BBQ. One of my favorite tacos spots in Austin is Veracruz All Natural , which has a few different locations around the city.

Broken Bow is located in the southeastern corner of Oklahoma and is home to a large lake, cozy cabins and many outdoor activities. If you have one day, I recommend paddling down the rapids of the Mountain Fork River. The river has Class 2+ Rapids and ends with a three foot waterfall. It’s a very fun adventure that you can do on your own or in tandem with a partner. Many outfitters offer rentals but I had a good experience with Tippa Canoe.

After a few hours on the river, hike the 1.5 mile Friends Loop Trail in Beavers Bend State Park for beautiful views of the river and forest. Finally, end the day at one of the local restaurants like the Mountain Fork Brewery for pizza, burgers and beer.

Day Trips Under 4 Hours from Dallas

Oklahoma City is the capital of Oklahoma and is full of great activities, art and food. One must-see in Oklahoma is the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum . This museum commemorates the victims and heroes involved in the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995 and is an emotional and powerful place to visit.

If you love art, be sure to visit Factory Obscura while you’re in town, an impressive interactive art museum that is similar to the famous Meow Wolf in Santa Fe .

Finally, if you love architecture be sure to visit the Myriad Botanical Gardens , a greenhouse and park with a beautiful cylindrical glass greenhouse.

For food in Oklahoma City, visit Stitch Cafe for a delicious and fresh brunch spot and Cheever’s Cafe for a wonderful date night dinner. And if you have enough time, Bricktown is a great neighborhood for more restaurants, breweries and activities like mini golf.

Colorado Bend is a beautiful state park located at the northern edge of Texas Hill Country. The best things to do at Colorado Bend State Park include hiking to the famous Gorman Falls, a beautiful 70 foot waterfall accessible via a moderate 2.8 mile trail.

The park also has many more hiking trails including some that even lead to swimming holes. Other things to do in the park include renting kayaks and going on a cave tour. If you have time, Fiesta Winery is located not far outside of the park.

The Wichita Mountains are located in Oklahoma and are one of the closest mountain ranges to Dallas. If you enjoy hiking, I recommend the 1.4 mile Forty Foot Hole Trail and the 2.7 mile Narrows Trail , both of which have beautiful rock formations with rivers that have carved narrow canyon walls.

For views without much hiking, be sure to drive to the top of Mount Scott for 360 views of the entire area, visit the Lake Quanah Parker Dam and stop at the prairie dog town. After outdoor adventures, head to Medicine Park for a meal or to cool off in the Medicine Creek.

Dripping Springs is an adorable Texas Hill Country town nicknamed the ‘Gateway to Texas Hill Country.’ Some of the best things to do in Dripping Springs include taking a tour of olive vineyards at the Texas Hill Country Olive Co , hiking to a grotto at Hamilton Pool Preserve and visiting the lush greenery at West Cave.

Also nearby, Pedernales Falls State Park is a gorgeous park to hike on a waterfall and see hill country views. For food in Drippings Springs, visit Rolling in Thyme and Dough for brunch, Crepe Crazy for lunch and Tillie’s for a high end dinner in a beautiful space.

Houston is another city that deserves more than a day, but you can still cover a lot if a day is all you have! Be sure to visit one or more of the iconic museums in Houston, such as the Space Center Houston and the Museum of Fine Arts . For something unique and quirky, check out the Art Car Museum , which is full of wildly decorated cars and the Beer Can House , which is made of over 50,000 recycled beer cans.

Houston is also a great foodie destination and has food options from all around the world. Options include enjoying dim sum at Ocean Palace , high tea at Proper Rose Garden and an upscale Indian meal at Kiran’s .

Wimberley, Texas is great for a summertime destination in Texas Hill Country. Make reservations at Jacob’s Well to jump into a submerged cave and Blue Hole Regional Park to swim under shady cypress trees.

If you visit during cooler weather, the short hike to Old Baldy is a great way to take in the Texas Hill Country views. For food and drinks in Wimberley, visit Shady Llama for a beautiful beer garden space, Community Pizza for great Italian food and Sugar Shack Bakery for a pastry and coffee.

As you can see, there is no shortage of day trips from Dallas and the surrounding area! For more inspiration for Texas travel, check out some of the articles below. Happy Exploring!

A Four Day Itinerary of Dallas, Texas

The Ultimate Texas Nature Bucket List

The Best Hiking Trails Near Dallas, Texas

40+ Things To Do in Texas Hill Country

Things To Do in the Texas Piney Woods

The Best Romantic Getaways from Dallas, Texas

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8 Great Day Trips From Dallas (Under 3 Hours’ Drive)

Craving a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Dallas? Here are some great ideas for day trips from Dallas – all within a 3-hour drive.

Whether you’re a long-time resident, a newcomer to the city or visiting Dallas for a weekend , sometimes you just need a change of scenery. And what makes Dallas so great is that within 3 hours’ drive you could be soaking up the sun by a lake, living your cowboy or cowgirl dream, or discovering dinosaur footprints.

Dallas was my home for 2.5 years, and while there’s so much food, nightlife and history to be discovered, there are also some incredible day trips that get you out of the city and exploring more of Texas.

So, if you’re looking to escape the Big D, here are the best day trips from Dallas.

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Forty-five minutes northwest of Dallas, Denton has been a college town since 1890.

Start your day trip to Denton with a stroll around Denton Square, checking out the cute shops, candy stores and historic buildings. There are a huge number of second-hand stores, full of all sorts of bric-a-brac. You’ll find old toys that bring back childhood memories, nostalgic signs and knick-knacks.

Check out the street art, which line the buildings from Fry Street to downtown.

When you’re ready to eat, the burger at Barley & Board can’t be beat. Simple, with just two thin patties, cheese, pickles and a creamy sauce, it’s perfectly cooked and something worth driving 45 minutes to eat!

Finish up your day trip with a beer at Oak St. Drafthouse. Located in one of the oldest houses in Denton, it’s a cool spot with indoor seating and a huge outdoor patio.

2. Fort Worth

Dallas’s sister city, Fort Worth is always a must-visit. Just half an hour from Dallas, it’s so close but has such a different vibe.

Your first stop in Fort Worth should be the Sundance Square environment distract, where you can shop until you drop at its unique boutiques, eat your way through a variety of cuisines or listen to live music.

You also can’t miss the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. It’s here that Longhorn cattle are paraded through the streets twice a day – time your visit to Fort Worth with this!

Once you’ve had your cowboy fix, Fort Worth is also home to the oldest botanic gardens in the state, as well as award-winning museums like the Kimbell Art Museum and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

Hungry? Eat at 61 Osteria, a classic Italian restaurant that’s a local favourite. Atico is a rooftop tapas bar with great views over the Fort Worth Stockyards and the city.

While Fort Worth is one of the best day trips from Dallas, it’s also one of the best romantic getaways in Texas if you want to stay a little longer.

Recommended by Ossama of Awesome Traveler

3. Glen Rose

As the Dinosaur Capital of Texas, Glen Rose is a must-visit from Dallas.

A million years ago, herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaurs roamed the area. They left hundreds of footprints that you can still see along the bed of the Paluxy River in Dinosaur Valley State Park. When the river is low in the summer is the best time to look for  dinosaur tracks at the Dinosaur Valley .

Besides looking for dinosaur tracks, visitors enjoy hiking around here because they can get some elevation. And when the river flows and the weather gets warm, the Paluxy River becomes a favourite swimming hole.

A few yards before you enter the state park, you’ll see Dinosaur World on the left-hand side. Hundreds of life-sized dinosaurs are spread in a natural setting throughout this park – you’ll feel like you’re walking with the dinosaurs, just like in Jurassic Park . Families with little children will love it. You can bring a picnic lunch, and dogs are welcome, too.

Another place that’s worth a stop is Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. It offers ecotourism to visitors via guided tours or drive-your-own vehicles. You’ll get a chance to feed giraffes from inside your car. Isn’t that cool?

When it’s time to eat, head out to Loco Coyote Grill. Try their delicious monster burgers, BBQ or chicken fried steak with an order of onion rings for the side. It’s open from Thursday to Sunday and dog-friendly.

If you like Mexican food, go to Mama Mia – their poblano rice is to die for.

Recommended by Umiko of Two Worlds Treasures

4. Grapevine

Grapevine’s downtown is loaded with shops, wine-tasting rooms and restaurants, and you can even hop aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad for a short excursion. 

The town is an easy day trip from Dallas and is popular with visitors from all around. Grapevine is just 27 miles, or a half-hour drive, from downtown Dallas. It also makes a good stopover for airport travellers with time on their hands as it’s just a 10-minute shuttle ride from Dallas-Fort Worth Airport. 

There are lots of fun things to do in Grapevine . The Settlement to City Museums is a complex of historical museums that includes two 19th-century pioneer homes and a school house. Several model train exhibits are located in town. And a favourite spot with children is Nash Farm, a sort of living museum that displays and re-enacts life on a late 19th-century farm. 

The incredible Meow Wolf has also opened in Grapevine. Meow Wolf is an immersive, interactive art venue that’s a lot of fun – and very Instagrammable!

Among the many restaurants, Esparza’s Restaurante Mexicano is a favourite. Situated in a renovated 1800s house, it’s well-known for its Tex Mex cuisine (don’t miss the deep-fried stuffed avocado) and margaritas. Old-school Italian classics and wine flights are a specialty at Farina’s Winery & Café.

One of the best times to visit Grapevine is Christmas. The town is the official Christmas Capitol of Texas and schedules more than 1,400 events over 40-plus days. Festivities happen all around the town. 

Recommended by Carole of Travels with Carole

5. Jefferson

Jefferson is an ideal day trip from Dallas. Just under 3 hours from Dallas, it offers both historic attractions and nearby natural wonders.

It’s a small town where it’s easy to talk to the locals and see everything in a day. To begin, take a historical tour in a vintage red bus. It will take you to the highlights of the town, such as the magnificent Kennedy Manor Bed & Breakfast and the traditional buildings of the town centre.

Jefferson was founded prior to the Civil War, so its history stretches far back. Named after the USA’s third president, you can learn more about the city’s history at the Jefferson Historic Museum.

After a great tour, enjoy lunch at Jefferson’s epic McGarity’s Restaurant & Saloon. It’s an institution in town, with kitchen decor and everyday objects hanging from the ceiling. The menu is classic and varied, from pastas to steaks, fish and herbivore dishes. If it’s full, head next door to the Haywood House Restaurant, with its vintage decor.

If the weather’s nice and you’d rather explore the surrounding countryside, you’ll find two beautiful lakes: Lake O’ the Pines, a 15-minute drive west of Jefferson, and Caddo Lake and its incredible Wildlife Refuge, a 20-minute drive east of Jefferson.

All of these options make Jefferson one of the best road trips from Dallas.

Recommended by Soline of On the Road Diary

6. Mineral Wells

Mineral Wells is a surprising haven of cultural, historical and outdoor opportunities, located under an hour and a half from Dallas. This makes Mineral Wells an ideal Dallas day trip, with a small-town vibe and plenty of places to unwind away from the big city.

Mineral Wells is a mecca for outdoor recreationists. There’s the Brazos River, with plenty of fishing and boating opportunities. The Lake Mineral Wells State Trailway is a 20-mile-long multi-use path perfect for runners, walkers, and bikers. Enjoy the botanical Clark Gardens, or conquer some challenging mountain biking at Texas Frontier Trails.

Finally, there’s beautiful Lake Mineral Wells State Park, one of the  top 8 state parks near Dallas , with its namesake lake, miles of trails and campgrounds. The highlight of the park is the ominously named Penitentiary Hollow, filled with craggy canyons and cliffs that’s home to some of the best rock climbing in Texas.  

Downtown Mineral Wells is lined with small shops and historic icons like the Baker Hotel.  Downtown also hosts several yearly events, including the annual Crazy Water Festival, now in its 44th year.

When it comes to historical roots, there are several places of interest, including the Fort Wolters Historical Park and the National Vietnam War Museum.  

After all those outdoor activities you’ll need to fuel up. The best local German food can be found at Jamie’s German Restaurant, or go for traditional Texas BBQ at Natty Flat Smokehouse.  

Mineral Wells is an ideal year-round day trip from Dallas, but if outdoor recreation is on your list, the best seasons to visit are fall and spring, in order to avoid the more extreme temperatures.

Recommended by Kristen at Yonderlust Ramblings

Tyler is the perfect choice for a day trip from Dallas. In just an hour and a half, you’ll be transported to the Piney Woods of East Texas – a refreshing change of scenery!

Tyler is known as the Rose Capital of the World, so you’ll definitely want to visit the Tyler Rose Garden. One of the city’s biggest celebrations is the annual Rose Festival. Held in October, this is a great time to visit. And don’t miss the Azalea and Spring Flower Trail, held from the end of March through the beginning of April.

Even if you’re not a big fan of flowers, there are plenty of fun things to do in Tyler. History buffs will enjoy stepping back in time at the Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum. If you’re interested in the arts, visit the Tyler Art Museum, featuring works by Texas artists. 

Visiting with kids? Check out the interactive science exhibits at the Discovery Science Place.

For lunch, sink your teeth into smoky brisket or ribs at Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue. Enjoy hearty Tex-Mex fare at Mercado’s – the fajitas are fantastic, and don’t forget to grab your free soft-serve ice cream cone on your way out! Or, for lighter fare, enjoy salads and sandwiches at the Potpourri House, a local favourite.

Recommended by Lisa Garrett of  Travel to Lyon

For a wonderful day trip from Dallas, check out the sweet town of Waco, Texas. Located just 1.5 hours from Dallas, Waco offers outdoor adventures, historic architecture, and  several fun things to do . 

Head downtown to visit the Dr. Pepper Museum to experience hands-on activities with plenty of taste testing allowed! For gorgeous views of the skyline, take a stroll across the Waco Suspension Bridge.

Waco’s National Mammoth Monument allows visitors to experience a real archaeological site with prehistoric animals, including the remains of 24 Columbian mammoths. For more history and science, walk the beautiful Baylor University campus and visit the Mayborn Museum featuring several exhibits that vary from geology to space technology.

Feel like getting more active? Try your hand at surfing at Waco Surf. The wave park – 200 miles from the ocean! – has waves for everyone from beginners to advanced surfers.

Waco’s most popular place to visit is undoubtedly Magnolia at the Silos, featuring Chip and Joanna Gaines’ beautiful shops filled with treasures. You’ll also find seasonal events, a great outdoor lawn space with a wiffle ball field and food trucks, and of course, their delicious bakery cupcakes. True fans will want to take a tour of their renovated homes or even visit their castle.

Next to Magnolia Market is Union Hall, an indoor food hall with several delicious restaurants to choose from. For southwestern fare with a river view, check out Café Homestead and don’t skip the peach cobbler!

Spring and fall are wonderful times to visit Waco, not only for the fantastic weather, but also for the festivals that take place throughout the seasons. The Texas Food Truck Showdown, Homestead Fair, Annual Rodeo and Silobration are filled with tasty food, live entertainment and local culture.

Recommended by Sierra of Very Truly Texas

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What are your favourite Dallas day trips?

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12 Best Day Trips From Dallas, Texas (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for some of the best day trips from Dallas? Here’s our list of 12 incredible Dallas day trips you should add to your itinerary!

The Lone Star State is packed with incredible things to see and do. If you’re visiting the busy city of Dallas , the attractions here alone could entertain you for days on end.

In Dallas, a city known for its cosmopolitan flair and rich cultural offerings, some of the best things to do include exploring the historic Dealey Plaza, where the Sixth Floor Museum chronicles the events surrounding President John F. Kennedy’s assassination.

Additionally, visitors can indulge in the city’s vibrant arts scene by touring the renowned Dallas Museum of Art or strolling through the picturesque Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, offering a delightful escape into nature within the heart of the city.

But if you have time for a day trip, consider venturing outside the city to explore more of Texas !

Our list of the top day trips from Dallas combines all the most fascinating parts of East, Central, and North Texas. Some of these day trips from Dallas even take you all the way into Oklahoma!

You can tour art galleries in cities like Austin or go horseback riding through a state park. You can visit the gorgeous natural wonder of Turner Falls, or lounge on the sandy beaches of a lake. Or head up to Oklahoma’s capital city or explore the wilderness in Beaver Bend State Park.

These day trips from Dallas allow you to make the most of your time in Texas and see beyond the excitement of the city. So make sure you save some time in your exploration of Texas to try some of these day trips from Dallas!

Explore more of the Lone Star State with our list of the best things to do in Texas .

Table of Contents

1. Fort Worth

2. oklahoma city, 4. davy crockett national forest, 5. beavers bend state park and nature center, 6. big cypress bayou, 7. lake texoma, 8. turner falls park, 9. dinosaur valley state park, 11. glen rose, wrapping up, the 12 best day trips from dallas, texas.

Dallas is located in northeastern Texas without many other major cities nearby. So many of these day trips from Dallas require a bit of driving. Just start the day early and you can easily fit any of these day trips into your Dallas itinerary !

If you don’t already have a car, try to rent one in the city. There isn’t tons of public transport that reaches these Dallas day trips, so having your own vehicle is ideal. Any of these day trips would also make a great weekend trip as well, particularly the further destinations that require 3 hours of driving one way.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

• Distance from Dallas: 32 miles
• Driving time: 30 minutes

Fort Worth , located in the heart of North Texas, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its rich Western heritage with a modern urban atmosphere. It’s one of the easiest and most popular day trips from Dallas!

Known as the “City of Cowboys and Culture,” Fort Worth proudly embraces its cowboy roots, evident in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards District. Here, visitors can witness the daily cattle drives, explore the iconic Fort Worth Stockyards, go on a pub crawl , and soak in the Old West charm of saloons and rodeo arenas.

Beyond its Western allure, Fort Worth boasts a thriving cultural scene, with world-class museums like the Kimbell Art Museum, the National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum, and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. These institutions showcase an impressive collection of art, history, and culture, making Fort Worth a great place to dive into Texas’s cultural influences.

The city’s downtown area, Sundance Square, is a bustling hub of entertainment, dining, and shopping. With its red-brick streets and historic architecture, Sundance Square exudes a welcoming atmosphere and serves as a focal point for community events and festivals.

Fort Worth is also home to other attractions like the Fort Worth Zoo and The Fort Worth Water Gardens. The latter is a stunning urban oasis that captivates visitors with its modernist architecture, serene pools, and cascading waterfalls.

Whether one is exploring its cowboy heritage, indulging in cultural pursuits, or enjoying the vibrant city life, Fort Worth stands as a dynamic and multifaceted destination, inviting residents and visitors alike to experience the best of Texas hospitality and charm.

• Distance from Dallas: 207 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours

You can venture all the way up to Oklahoma on a day trip from Dallas! At just about 3 hours away, Oklahoma City is a great option for Dallas day trips.

Oklahoma City, the capital and largest city of the state of Oklahoma, blends a rich history with modern progress.

Nestled in the heart of the Great Plains, the city’s skyline is marked by impressive architecture, including the iconic Devon Energy Center. The Oklahoma City National Memorial, located at the site of the tragic 1995 bombing, stands as a solemn tribute to those who lost their lives, offering a place for reflection and remembrance.

The Bricktown Entertainment District, once an industrial area, has transformed into a vibrant hub featuring an array of restaurants, bars, and shops along the scenic Bricktown Canal. This district is particularly lively in the evenings, offering a lively atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.

Oklahoma City is deeply connected to its Western heritage, evident in attractions like the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, which showcases an extensive collection of Western art and artifacts.

The city’s commitment to the arts is further exemplified by the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, home to a diverse range of exhibits and a stunning collection of Dale Chihuly’s glass sculptures.

With a thriving cultural scene, a welcoming community, and a mix of historic charm and contemporary offerings, Oklahoma City is one of the best day trips from Dallas. Because it is a 3-hour drive, this also makes a great weekend trip from Dallas!

Related: Check out these other great road trips from Dallas !

• Distance from Dallas: 95 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

One of the most popular day trips from Dallas is Waco, an exciting city situated along the banks of the Brazos River in central Texas.

Known for its friendly atmosphere and cultural attractions, Waco has gained national attention in recent years, thanks in part to the popular renovation of the historic Magnolia Market at the Silos. Founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper” fame, Magnolia Market has become a major draw, attracting visitors with its stylish shopping, delicious food trucks, and vibrant community space.

Beyond Magnolia Market, Waco offers a range of cultural experiences, including the iconic Dr Pepper Museum. Housed in the original bottling plant, the Dr Pepper Museum offers a delightful journey through time, showcasing vintage advertisements, memorabilia, and a glimpse into the evolution of the beloved beverage.

Waco’s downtown area has undergone revitalization, featuring a mix of trendy boutiques, eateries, and entertainment venues. The Brazos Riverwalk provides a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities, offering a peaceful escape within the heart of the city. You can even go horseback riding with a cowboy guide !

The city is also known for the Waco Mammoth National Monument a paleontological site that preserves the fossilized remains of a herd of Columbian mammoths and other Ice Age creatures. Visitors to the monument can take guided tours to explore the well-preserved mammoth fossils in their original context.

Between its ancient fossils, bustling markets, and Dr Pepper Museum, Waco is one of the top Dallas day trips!

• Distance from Dallas: 144 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 20 minutes

Davy Crockett National Forest, located in East Texas, is a sprawling expanse of woodlands and waterways that honors the legendary frontiersman Davy Crockett.

Encompassing over 160,000 acres, Davy Crockett National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring an extensive network of hiking trails, including the 20-mile Four C National Recreation Trail, which winds through scenic pine and hardwood forests.

The forest’s terrain is interspersed with serene lakes and rivers, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Big Slough Wilderness , a designated wilderness area within the forest, offers a pristine and untouched natural environment for those seeking a more secluded and immersive outdoor experience.

Davy Crockett National Forest is a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to a variety of plant and animal species. The forest’s diverse ecosystems range from upland pine forests to bottomland hardwoods, creating a gorgeous day trip destination. Birdwatchers can delight in the abundance of avian life, while deer, squirrels, and other wildlife are commonly spotted by those exploring the forest trails.

Davy Crockett National Forest serves as a peaceful retreat, inviting travelers to engage in camping, picnicking, and simply soaking in the tranquility of the East Texas wilderness.

Read next: 14 Best Day Trips From Austin, Texas

• Distance from Dallas: 181 miles

Located in the southeastern corner of Oklahoma, Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Encompassing over 1,300 acres along the shores of Broken Bow Lake and the Mountain Fork River, the park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, dense forests, and crystal-clear waters.

Visitors to Beavers Bend State Park can explore a network of hiking trails that wind through the towering pine and hardwood trees, offering glimpses of native wildlife and providing a serene escape into nature. The park’s centerpiece, Broken Bow Lake, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and water recreation against a backdrop of picturesque hills.

The park’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty is complemented by the Beavers Bend Nature Center, where educational programs and exhibits enhance visitors’ understanding of the diverse ecosystems that thrive within the park.

The Beavers Bend Nature Center serves as an interpretive hub, providing valuable insights into the flora and fauna of southeastern Oklahoma. Naturalists and park rangers lead guided tours and educational programs, engaging visitors with hands-on experiences and informative exhibits that highlight the region’s biodiversity.

Additionally, the center offers a range of family-friendly activities, making it an excellent resource for those looking to deepen their appreciation for the great outdoors. Beavers Bend State Park and its Nature Center offer one of the best day trips from Dallas for people of all ages.

• Distance from Dallas: 170 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 40 minutes

Big Cypress Bayou , located in the Piney Woods region of East Texas, is a picturesque waterway known for its serene beauty and rich ecological diversity. Flowing through the historic town of Jefferson, the bayou has played a significant role in the region’s history, serving as a vital transportation route during the steamboat era in the mid-19th century.

Today, it remains a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The bayou is surrounded by lush cypress and hardwood forests, providing a tranquil setting for activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and birdwatching.

Visitors can explore the scenic waterway, immersing themselves in the peaceful ambiance while spotting a variety of wildlife, including turtles, waterfowl, and the occasional alligator.

One of the notable features along Big Cypress Bayou is the Caddo Lake, a sprawling and iconic lake known for its bald cypress trees draped with Spanish moss, creating an enchanting and almost mystical atmosphere.

The interconnected waterways offer a unique opportunity to explore the bayou’s beauty and the historic remnants of the steamboat era, such as old paddlewheel boats and remnants of riverboat landings. Big Cypress Bayou and Caddo Lake State Park collectively form a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a tranquil day trip into the natural wonders of East Texas.

• Distance from Dallas: 88 miles

One of the less touristy day trips from Dallas is Lake Texoma. Straddling the border of Texas and Oklahoma, this is one of the largest reservoirs in the United States and a popular destination for outdoor recreation.

Formed by the confluence of the Red River and the Washita River, the lake spans over 89,000 acres, offering a vast expanse of water for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Known for its clear blue waters and scenic shoreline, Lake Texoma attracts visitors from both states and beyond, providing a diverse range of experiences, from serene coves for relaxation to open waters for sailing and jet-skiing.

The lake’s extensive shoreline is dotted with marinas, campgrounds, and parks, providing ample opportunities for camping, hiking, and picnicking. Fishing enthusiasts flock to Lake Texoma for its reputation as a prime fishing destination, hosting a variety of fish species, including striped bass, catfish, and crappie.

The lake is also home to the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge , a haven for birdwatchers, where migratory birds and waterfowl find sanctuary. You could easily spend a whole day trip exploring this one spot, but there is so much to see here!

Lake Texoma’s combination of recreational amenities, natural beauty, and diverse ecosystems make it a year-round destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and a peaceful escape into the heart of the Southern Plains.

Heading south? Check out our list of the best things to do in San Antonio !

• Distance from Dallas: 128 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours

Turner Falls Park, nestled in the Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma, is a scenic and recreational haven renowned for its stunning waterfalls and natural beauty.

The park’s crown jewel, Turner Falls, cascades 77 feet into a natural swimming pool, creating a picturesque landscape that draws visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. The clear spring-fed waters and the surrounding lush greenery make it a popular destination for swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

Visitors can explore the park’s extensive trail system, which leads to panoramic viewpoints, cave formations, and the Collings Castle, a historic structure built in the 1930s that adds a touch of enchantment to the park’s landscape.

Turner Falls Park also offers diverse recreational amenities, including water activities in Honey Creek that meanders through the park, providing opportunities for canoeing and paddle boating. There are plenty of places to camp and there are some fun family attractions such as Arbuckle Wilderness Park.

Due to its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and family-friendly atmosphere, Turner Falls State Park is one of the best day trips from Dallas for families and nature lovers.

• Distance from Dallas: 80 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 22 minutes

Another one of the best day trips from Dallas is Dinosaur Valley State Park , a captivating destination that allows visitors to step back in time to the prehistoric era.

The state park is renowned for its exceptional fossilized dinosaur tracks, which can be found along the riverbed. These tracks, dating back millions of years, offer a unique opportunity for visitors to witness the footprints of massive dinosaurs such as the Acrocanthosaurus and Sauroposeidon.

Beyond the dinosaur tracks, the state park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching, providing nature enthusiasts with a chance to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Visitors to Dinosaur Valley State Park can also enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the river, with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and even camping. The state park features well-maintained trails that lead to scenic overlooks, and the iconic Blue Hole offers a refreshing spot for swimming in the clear waters of the Paluxy River.

With its combination of paleontological wonders and outdoor recreational opportunities, Dinosaur Valley State Park stands as a unique and educational destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone intrigued by the mysteries of the ancient past.

Find more gems with our list of the best places to visit in Texas .

• Distance from Dallas: 195 miles

Another one of the best Dallas day trips is the mighty capital city of Texas, Austin ! Known for its unique blend of live music, thriving tech scene, and recreational opportunities, Austin has so much to offer travelers.

Located along the banks of the Colorado River, Austin has earned the moniker “Live Music Capital of the World,” boasting a dynamic music scene that comes to life in its numerous live music venues, festivals, and events.

The iconic South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, an annual celebration of film, music, and technology, draws creative minds from around the globe, solidifying Austin’s reputation as a cultural hub. The city’s famed Sixth Street, also known as the “Dirty Sixth,” is a lively entertainment district lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, offering a diverse array of experiences for both locals and visitors.

Beyond its musical scene, Austin embraces its natural surroundings with an abundance of parks and green spaces. Travelers can explore the scenic Barton Creek Greenbelt, hike along the trails of the Barton Creek Wilderness Park, or go kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, all within the heart of the city.

Austin also has an amazing culinary scene that celebrates local flavors and diverse cuisines, making it a haven for food enthusiasts. Join a guided food tour to uncover all the local secrets of Austin’s eateries!

Whether enjoying the energetic atmosphere of downtown, immersing oneself in the beauty of nature, or savoring the culinary delights, Austin captures the essence of Texas’s diverse and dynamic spirit.

• Distance from Dallas: 75 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Glen Rose, a charming town in Somervell County, Texas, is nestled in the picturesque Brazos River Valley and is renowned for its rich history, natural beauty, and unique attractions. The town is often celebrated for its dinosaur tracks at Dinosaur Valley State Park, offering a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric past.

Beyond this iconic state park, Glen Rose exudes a small-town charm with historic buildings, boutique shops, and family-owned restaurants. The downtown area, surrounded by rolling hills, provides a relaxing atmosphere, inviting visitors to stroll along the streets and enjoy the local hospitality.

The town is also known for its cultural events and festivals, including the annual Somervell County Peach and Melon Festival, which celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage.

Glen Rose boasts cultural attractions as well, such as the Barnard’s Mill Art Museum, housed in a historic gristmill, showcasing local and regional artwork.

With its unique blend of natural attractions and community warmth, Glen Rose is one of the best day trips from Dallas for those seeking a tranquil escape with a touch of Texas history and charm. This small town is close by and perfect for a day trip!

Read next: The Ultimate 3 Days In Austin Itinerary

• Distance from Dallas: 97 miles

Tyler, known as the “Rose Capital of America,” is another one of the best day trips from Dallas and it’s only about an hour and a half drive. This vibrant city in East Texas is celebrated for its blooming rose gardens and charming Southern hospitality.

The Tyler Rose Garden, one of the largest in the country, showcases over 38,000 rose bushes and 500 varieties, attracting visitors from far and wide. Each October, the Texas Rose Festival transforms Tyler into a floral wonderland, featuring parades, garden tours, and other events that highlight the city’s deep-rooted connection to horticulture and the rose industry.

Beyond its floral fame, Tyler offers a diverse range of cultural attractions and recreational activities. The city’s downtown area is home to a mix of historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and local eateries. The Caldwell Zoo provides a family-friendly adventure, housing a variety of wildlife species in naturalistic habitats.

Tyler State Park, just outside the city, offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping amid the beautiful piney woods of East Texas. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and community spirit, Tyler stands as a welcoming day trip destination that embraces both its floral heritage and the modern amenities that make it a thriving hub in the region.

So whether you’re looking to explore a small town in a hidden corner of the Lone Star State, or head up to Oklahoma to check out the capital city, there are so many amazing day trips from Dallas!

If you have more time, there are plenty of weekend trips from Dallas that are worth trying as well.

Head down to Houston and check out the famous Space Center Houston, or explore the eclectic neighborhoods like the Museum District and tour the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

Or spend more time in central Texas near Austin and embark on a journey out to the scenic Texas Hill Country. Here you can tour Guadalupe River State Park or explore the historic town of Fredericksburg.

Or try to see it all on a 10-day Texas road trip itinerary ! Whether you’re looking for day trips, weekend trips, or epic road trips, Texas really does have it all!

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9 Easy & Fun Day Trips from Dallas for a Weekend Adventure

Looking for day trips from Dallas to get out of the city and explore Texas? Want something within driving distance? Check out these 11 cities outside Dallas for a day trip! Whether you want something by the lake, a good shopping trip, a fun outdoor adventure, or something quiet and cozy these are the places you should check out. I’ve lived up in Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) for 18+ years, and I have definitely had my fair share of Dallas Day Trips! I wanted to share some of my favorites; the one’s my family and I can’t help but go back to. These are the gems we love! SEE MORE: 11 Hidden Gems in DFW You Haven’t Seen Yet

Visit Waco, Texas for the Day

Driving Distance 1.5 – 2 Hours from Dallas Things To Do Believe it or not, there is more to do in Dallas outside of Magnolia Market ! However, not going to lie that’s it’s one of my personal favorite places. You have to try their cupcakes at the Magnolia Bakery ! Otherwise, check out some of these great furniture spots in Waco. You can also walk around the beautiful Baylor Campus (Hook ‘Em though) or check out these water slides during the summer!

Visit the Wineries in Grapevine

Driving Distance 20-30 Minutes Things To Do Grapevine is SUCH a short trip from Dallas, and it happens to be my hometown! From hanging out at Grapevine Lake to walking through Main Street to checking out one of the famous Grapevine Wineries there is an endless list for a day’s worth of adventure in Dallas. If you want a quick Dallas day trip, this is the way to go! Check out our Things To Do in Grapevine list for a full guide!

Gamble the Night Away at Winstar Casino

Driving Distance 1 Hour Things To Do Other than gamble the night away? Winstar always has great live music concerts and comedians at the casino in addition to being one of the largest casinos in the USA! However, I do have to recommend the gambling part. It’s the perfect quick getaway with your date or your friends for a girls trip!

READ MORE ON A GIRL FROM TX 12 Unique Date Ideas in Dallas You Haven’t Thought of Yet 20 Most Romantic Restaurants in Dallas for Date Night 10 Texas State Parks Worth a Camping Adventure

Go Shopping at Canton Market

Driving Distance 1 Hour Things To Do Ever heard of First Monday Trade Day ? Basically, Canton throws a giant flea market that takes place Thursday through Sunday before the first Monday of each month featuring TONS of artists and creators across Texas. It’s the perfect place for a shopping trip, and one my mom and I hit all the time! From antiques to furniture to artwork, this has everything and is such a fun day trip from Dallas!

SEE MORE \\ 18 ROAD TRIP PODCASTS YOU’LL LOVE LISTENING TO

Explore Beavers Bend State Park

Driving Distance 3 Hours Things To Do Whether you want to go hiking on one of their beautiful trails or spend time by the water or just relax by a campfire, this is the perfect place to be! Such gorgeous scenery and nature all around, and you actually do escape Texas for a minute. However, I highly recommend you turn this Dallas day trip into an overnight stay at one of these stunning cabins! Wanna see more Texas State Parks? Check out our full list of favorites!

An Afternoon Rodeo Adventure in Fort Worth

Driving Distance 30 Minutes – 1 Hour (yay traffic) Things To Do SO MUCH! Spend the day at the Stockyards followed by the rodeo and some two-stepping. Or if country isn’t your thing, walk around the beautiful Sundance Square and check out the Fort Worth Water Gardens. Literally endless things to do in this gorgeous city just next door to Dallas. The ultimate Dallas Day Trip, if you ask me! Check out our full Fort Worth Guide full of what to do, see, & eat!

Climb Around at Mineral Wells State Park

Driving Distance 1 – 2 Hours Things To Do Mineral Wells was where my family loved to go camping when I was growing up, and it holds as one of my favorites. Not only can you take your boat out on the lake and spend some time fishing, but their rock climbing is absolutely incredible. Who wants to rock climb indoors when you can climb actual cliffs?

Rent a Boat on Lake Tyler or Lake Grapevine

Driving Distance Lake Grapevine: 30 Minutes Lake Tyler: 1.5 – 2 Hours Things To Do Ah, this is a post-prom throwback for me. Lake Tyler is definitely one of the best places to rent a boat and spend a day out on the lake! Definitely a prettier option than Lake Grapevine in my opinion. This is the perfect place to rent some jet skis or go tubing too! And if you want to opt for something closer to home, then just go with Lake Grapevine! I just…wouldn’t recommend a swim in Lake Grapevine personally

Expand to a Weekend Trip in Austin, Texas

Driving Distance 3 Hours (2.5 if I speed to a level that upsets my mother) Things To Do Okay there is so much to do that you will literally run out of time. I have lived here FIVE YEARS and still have things to do. But the best things to know out? Walking around downtown, checking out the view from Mount Bonnell or 360 Bridge, eating BBQ from Franklins or Terry Black, kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, and ending your day on South Congress! Check out our complete Austin Guide for what to do, see & eat in ATX!

Thanks for checking out our Dallas Day Trips post with all my favorite Day Trips from Dallas! Hope you got to add some to your list to check out soon enough, Dallas is full of great spots!

Looking for more fun things in Dallas? Check These Out! 8 Dallas Fort Worth Museums to Explore 11 Hidden Gems in DFW You Haven’t Seen Yet The Complete Dallas Mural Guide

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Comments (10).

January 16, 2019 at 7:26 pm

These all sound like so much fun! I’ve only been to Ft Worth and Austin (on this list) but I’m ready to get back to Texas!

January 16, 2019 at 10:20 pm

This is a great post. We’ve been to Dallas several times in the past couple of years. We went to Waco on our last one. Really enjoyed the afternoon there.

Rachel R Ritlop

January 17, 2019 at 9:13 am

ahhh so many fun things to do! I always think of texas as dry and like a desert. so wild to see how many bodies of water there are! the fort worth gardens look beautiful!

January 17, 2019 at 10:46 am

I live in DC but I always forget how vast other big cities are! DC has a condensed population but it’s still a physically small city compared to Dallas! I’d love to visit someday!

January 17, 2019 at 11:09 am

So many amazing places near Dallas! Road trips are the best and the distances to these cities are perfect! 3 hours is definitely a good amount!

January 17, 2019 at 2:59 pm

We’re planning a family reunion for this summer and we’re thinking about the Dallas area! These are some great places.

Tara Fuller

January 18, 2019 at 12:07 pm

this is such a fun list! i haven’t even tried most of these – now i have a little bucket list!

January 18, 2019 at 2:34 pm

All of these places look so inviting and relaxing -shay

January 20, 2019 at 8:02 pm

these all look great! like most i’d love to visit waco, but fort worth looks quite interesting as well. thanks for sharing!

February 10, 2019 at 3:00 pm

Ooooo, this is a good one. I’m going to have to do the slide and Beaver Bend state park. Winstar is tons of fun. If you’re traveling from Dallas and not coming home that same night make sure you call ahead and make sure there are rooms available, particularly if it’s a holiday or there’s a big concert.

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The Best Day Trips From Dallas

For those looking for a fun day trip from Dallas, this guide has several options for you to choose from. Dallas is within a few hours of stunningly pretty state parks, charming cities, and a string of postcard-worthy small Texan towns just waiting to be explored.

Fort Worth: World-Class Art and Cowboy Culture

TripSavvy / Vincent Mercer

First up, the most logical day trip from Dallas is Fort Worth. The true flavor and history of Texas are embodied in this vibrant city, which became famous during the open-range cattle drives of the 19th century. Today, the main draw is the Stockyards National Historic District, where cowboys, cattlemen, and outlaws used to roam. The city is also home to several world-class art museums, including the Kimbell Art Museum , the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth , and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art .

Getting There: Just 30 minutes west of Dallas, Fort Worth is easily accessible by car or bus .

Travel Tip: In addition to soaking up art and exploring the Stockyards, take a moment to walk around the Water Gardens if you’re downtown—this modernist, urban oasis of pools and water features is a marvel.

Beavers Bend State Park: Enjoy a Weekend in the Great Outdoors

Nestled in the scenic mountainous region of southeast Oklahoma, Beavers Bend State Park is a wonderful weekend getaway if you’re craving a dose of nature. Crystal-clear waters and lush, hilly terrain make this state park a nature lover’s dream. There’s plenty to do here, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating, water skiing, canoeing, horseback riding, and more. Spend the night at Lakeview Lodge , one of the park’s many cabins, or at a tent or RV campsite. 

Getting There: Take Highway 75 north to exit 45; the journey takes about three hours. 

Travel Tip: Make time for a glass of wine at Girls Gone Wine , an adorable winery in Broken Bow. After a long day at the lake, there’s no better way to unwind.

Denton: Explore a Culturally-Rich Texas Town

Less than an hour from Dallas, Denton boasts a spectacular live music scene and a lively culture all its own. Home to two major universities (the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University), this bustling college town is loaded with cool boutiques, breweries, bars, galleries, and restaurants, along with a plethora of up-and-coming musicians who perform around town.   

Getting There: You can take the DART to get to Denton if you’re not up for the drive: Take the Green Line to the Trinity Mills station in Carrollton, transfer to the A-train, and take the A-train to the Downtown Denton Transit Center.

Travel Tip: For a real treat, head here for either the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival or the Denton Blues Festival .

Caddo Lake State Park: A Maze of Natural Wonders

Caddo Lake State Park is located roughly two and a half hours from Dallas, but the drive is well worth it. This is one of the state’s most popular parks, for good reason. With its thick bald cypress trees dripping with Spanish moss, alligators (yep!), and maze of sloughs and pools, Caddo Lake has an eerie, gothic beauty that’s unlike other parts of Texas. Caddo Lake, the largest naturally formed lake in Texas, has over 50 miles of paddling trails that can be explored by canoe or kayak. Visitors can also experience the Pineywoods on more than 13 miles of trails. 

Getting There: Caddo Lake State Park is about three hours east of Dallas, via I-20.  

Travel Tip: Apart from getting out on the water (which is a must), don’t miss the Whispering Pines Nature Trail, a historic trail built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1938 that passes through mixed hardwood-pine woodland.

Dinosaur Valley State Park: Follow the Footsteps of Ancient Beasts

It may be tough to believe, but dinosaurs used to roam just west of the Dallas metroplex. At Dinosaur Valley State Park, visitors can follow the real-life, fossilized dinosaur tracks along the banks of the park’s Paluxy River. The prints are preserved in stone and are visible at five different locations along the river. 

Getting There: Drive along I-35 S towards Waco and continue on US-67; the park is about an hour and a half from the Metroplex. 

Travel Tip: Hikers will rejoice at the 20-mile network of interconnected, mixed-use trails in the park, the longest of which, the Cedar Brake Outer Loop, takes you on a looping tour of the terrain atop limestone ridges.

Canton: A Small Town With Substantial Charm

Charming Canton has a slew of small-town treasures—like America's largest flea market—just waiting to be discovered. The incredibly walkable city is perfect to explore on a quick trip from Dallas.

Getting There: Canton is just an hour’s drive from Dallas, along US-80 and I-20.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit around First Monday Trade Days, the biggest continually operating flea market in the country, which takes place Thursday through Sunday before the first Monday of every month.

Austin: Experience the Weirdest City in Texas

Austin may be located just three hours from Dallas, but the city’s cultural landscape is vastly different from that of the Big D. Come here to experience the food, the music, the culture, and the weirdness—see the bats on Congress Avenue, take a dip in Barton Springs, hike along the Greenbelt, and peruse galleries on the East Side. 

Getting There: Austin is about four hours south of Dallas, via I-35.

Travel Tip: Avoid visiting during any of the major festivals (like South by Southwest or Austin City Limits) when the city is swarming with tourists.

Possum Kingdom State Park: Scenic Nature and Aquatic Beauty

Larry D. Moore / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY-SA 4.0

Another mega-steamy Texas summer got you down? Possum Kingdom State Park is the perfect place to cool off. Located roughly one hour northwest of the Metroplex, the park caters to those who love the water, though there are also plenty of hiking trails. Scenically situated in the rugged canyon country of the Brazos River Valley and the Palo Pinto Mountains, this 1500-acre state park is on the west side of Possum Kingdom Lake. Visitors to the park can scuba dive, swim, snorkel, and go boating or fishing in the cool, clear waters. 

Getting There: It’s a scenic jaunt along I-30 to Possum Kingdom Lake; the journey should take you around three hours. 

Travel Tip: Aside from water sports, the rolling hills that surround the lake are home to several great trails, including the popular Lakeview Trail, the Longhorn Trail, and the Chaparral Ridge Trail, all of which offer magnificent views of the park

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20 Swoon-Worthy Summer Weekend Getaways from Dallas

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A lot of people in Dallas skip town and head out of state during the summer months. But who said you had to cross state lines to enjoy a top-tier summer getaway? In fact, this big ole’ state has plenty to offer in every direction. Ready to hit the highway and explore? Here, 20 swoon-worthy Texas getaways just hop, skip and jump away from Dallas.

6 Charming Small Towns in Texas That You Probably Haven’t Been to Yet

1. The Hummingbird At Sunrise Point (1 hour 10 minutes from Dallas)

This Cedar Creek Lake rental is perfect for summer social distancing. Located at Sunrise Point, it is one of four rentable cottages, making it the ideal destination for a friend group who likes a mix of togetherness and see ya later. Each cottage has a queen-sized bed and a full bathroom. Common areas include a putting green, lakeside seating, pool, jacuzzi and more. Think of this one like a summer fun camp, but you know, for adults.

2. Inn On Lake Granbury (1 hour 20 minutes from Dallas)

Love wine and water? This three-acre waterfront property in Granbury might be just what the doctor ordered for a weekend away. Enjoy amenities of a cozy inn like complimentary appetizers and wine delivered to your room for happy hour or book the full breakfast package to truly unwind. Spend the morning relaxing by the pool and then walk the two blocks to downtown for wineries, breweries, restaurants, and shops galore. Have a Revolver Blood & Honey for us, will you?

3. High Hill Farm (1 hour 50 minutes from Dallas)

For something totally different, try heading east. To East Texas, that is. This charming resort in Arp is an excellent option for those that want to relax and recharge but don’t want to skimp on quality cuisine. Relax by the pool, dine at Côte, and even play a 9-hole round of golf all without leaving the grounds. Be sure to check out their events schedule so you don’t miss movie night on the lawn or one of their epic Sunday brunch experiences.

4. Brazos Moon At Hell’s Gate Basin (2 hours and 40 minutes from Dallas)

Possum Kingdom Lake (or “PK” as the regulars call it) is home to Hell’s Gate, however, a weekend here will feel like heaven. Nestled in the foothills of the Palo Pinto mountains, the rugged coastline here is a far cry from Dallas living and you just can’t help but unwind from a hectic work week while lapping up the beautiful views here. This particular rental has four bedrooms, a new swimming pool and hot tub in addition to a killer firepit pavilion that’s perfect for watching the big game and enjoying the scenery.

5. Through The Looking Glass At Broken Bow (2 hours and 50 minutes from Dallas)

Broken Bow is the new IT vacation spot that Texans simply cannot get enough of. The wilderness vibes are just strong enough to scratch the itch for most city dwellers in need of some time outside. This glass cabin features split buildings for family and friends to spread out and although there are only three bedrooms, it accommodates up to 12 people. We are really digging the game room that features both a poker and pool table in addition to the covered porch that connects the two buildings. Anyone want to build a fire and roast a marshmallow or two?

6. Lake Austin Spa (3 hours from Dallas)

Possibly the biggest splurge on the list but this luxe retreat is definitely worth it. Whether you find yourself here for the mind, body or soul, this rejuvenating destination is sure to fill your cup. Not only is this waterfront property stunning, but the food is next level. Pair that with innovative wellness treatments (the serenity scalp massage is divine) and serene surroundings and you are destined to fall in love.

7. Sage Hill Inn & Spa (3 hours and 15 minutes from Dallas)

The Texas Hill Country is on full display at this Kyle, Texas inn located on 88 acres above the Onion Creek. Whether you enjoy wildflowers, observing animals in their nature habitat (hello antelope, deer and birds galore), or simply relaxing, there is something for everyone here. The pool, hot tub, and Garden Spa facility are big hits in addition to the Restaurant at Sage Hill. We cannot wait to see what cozy cottage you select.

8. Wahwahtaysee Resort (3 hours and 15 minutes from Dallas)

These luxury safety tents are the talk of Texas. So much so that it is hard to snag a reservation at this Kingsbury resort that is sittin’ pretty on the banks of the San Marcos River. And while just being in nature is perfectly OK, optional activities like fly fishing, kayaking, yoga classes, and horseback riding set this spot apart from your basic rental property. All tents come with fun amenities like a Yeti cooler, Green Egg barbecue cooker, a golf cart, Bluetooth speaker and more. Not about that tent life? First off, your loss, but they also have one container cabin for rent too.

9. Jl Bar Ranch And Spa (5 hours from Dallas)

It was only a matter of time before a Texan tapped in to the type of property that gives you the feeling of staying at a luxurious family ranch without actually having to own it. This Sonora sensation spans 13,000 acres and invites guests to experience horseback riding, mountain biking, spa and culinary classes galore. Do yourself a solid and check out the events schedule before picking a date to enjoy, as there tends to be stellar entertainment that comes to the ranch.

10. Cinnamon Shore (6 hours and 30 minutes from Dallas)

Want the simplistic beach charm of 30A but simply don’t have time to make the 12-hour trek? Cut your driving time in half and hit up this marvelous master planned community that has something for everyone in the family from your playful pup to your vitamin D-obsessed teenager. The community has a pizza shop, ice cream parlor, pool and even a fishing pier. Rentals include houses, condos, townhomes and cottages.

11. The Local Chapter At Big Bend National Park (8 hour and 30 minutes from Dallas)

For those who are ready to go full throttle down the Texas highway, hit up The Local Chapter in Terlingua for an experience unlike anything else in the state. These four luxury yurts, owned by rewardStyle’s Amber and Baxter Box, give you an up close and personal view of the majestic West Texas Terrain. It just so happens to border Big Bend National Park. Amenities include air conditioning and heat (hey, it’s a yurt after all), an indoor fireplace, personal telescope, king bed with Sferra Italian linens and more. And while it might be your first trip out to this part of Texas, we can almost guarantee that after staying here that it won’t be your last.

12. Yurt Life On The Lake In Shell Knob (6 Hours And 20 Minutes From Dallas)

Now this is a yurt! Located a stone’s throw Table Rock Lake, this stylish rental is a unique place to road trip with the family and even get a slight reprieve from the Texas heat. Its midcentury vibes are relaxing yet refined and adults and children alike appreciate the architecture. From lake activities to evening chats and s’more roasting in the firepit, this is going to be a destination that your Dallas friends are going to want the info on as you soon as you post about it.

13. 67a On The Bend In Carlton Landing (3 hours and 9 minutes from Dallas)

Looking for Long Cove vibes but with the potential to actually rent for a long weekend? Give Carlton Landing a try. Despite being a bit farther than Long Cove, it is a darling destination with many of the amenities people are looking for in a vacation destination and thoughfully-planned community—swimmable “beach,” pools, tennis courts, kayaks, fire pits, playgrounds, and more. It’s a place to put high on your road trip list if you’ve got a car full of kids who are already claiming to be bored this summer.

14. Hill Top Retreat In Bastrop (3 hours and 19 minutes from Dallas)

Austin gets a lot of credit for being amazing, and for good reason, it totally is. But sometimes it is nice to step back away from the beaten path. So, for those that love Austin—and might even want to venture into town for a little shopping and sipping—but want a little something different (say, an affordable water view), consider this rental in Bastrop with hilltop views and a large game room. You are close to Bastrop River Company , Dinosaur Park , and 602 Brewing Company (for parents who survive the aforementioned Dinosaur Park).

15. The Willows Casa Grande In Fredericksburg (4 hours and 17 minutes from Dallas)

Head to Texas wine country for farm-to-table food and vineyards and this special rental, which was featured in both the New York Times and Parade. It’s an ideal place to return after a day of wine tasting. And make sure to bring some bottles back with you to enjoy on the front porch as you’re surrounded by nature. But might we suggest you head out at least one more time for a fancy dinner at Vaudeville ? (Just look at that caviar presentation on the dinner menu.)

16. Gage Hotel In Marathon (7 hours and 5 minutes from Dallas)

Surrounded by Big Bend Country, this hotel is one of those surreal places that feels like it is in its own little world. Set up an adventure through Big Bend National Park and then rest and recharge at the Gage Spa with an aromatherapeutic massage. Don’t leave without sipping your cocktail of choice at the iconic White Buffalo Bar. We suggest the Brush Fire which consists of Tito’s, Texas Paula Orange, lime juice, fresh jalapenos and is served up with a spicy salted rim.

17. Walden Retreats In Johnson City (4 hours, 3 minutes from Dallas)

A luxury safari tent overlooking the Pedernales River, this 96-acre property is the definition of privacy. Whether you are climbing Enchanted Rock, fishing for bass and carp, or headed to Garrison Brothers Bourbon, it is nice to “retreat” to a place that feels so uniquely residential and ranch-like.

18. Hotel Lulu In Round Top (3 hours and 43 minutes from Dallas)

Round Top? OMG like Round Top , Round Top? Yes! That Round Top. And while you better hold your breath and pray if you plan to book these highly coveted quarters during antique-show weeks, it is still a darling place to get away during the other weekends of the year. The property recommends Mandito’s margaritas and Tex-Mex on the patio after exploring both Henkel and Rolland Square. And who are we to argue with that?

19. St. Francisville Inn In Saint Francisville, Louisiana (6 hours and 8 minutes from Dallas)

Want to step back into yesteryear? W e mean, really step back? Head to this town of less than 2,000 that will hit you with the nostalgia bug as quickly as the Louisiana Heat. The Inn, owned by Jim Johnston and Brandon Branch, represents a simpler time. Looking for antiques? Shop the darling Sage Hill Gifts. Consider yourself a green thumb? You’ll adore Afton Villa Gardens and its 25 acres of manicured beauty.

20. Thompson San Antonio–riverwalk (4 hours and 19 minutes from Dallas)

It’s another big city but with its own unique twist thanks to its Spanish history and thriving downtown that has a literal river running through it. What we love most about this new-ish property is the fact that while it is technically on the famous San Antonio Riverwalk, it is tucked in a peaceful part of the city center. We suggest spending the morning at the spa followed by lunch and lounging at the pool. After getting cleaned up in what just might be the biggest bathtubs in town, it's time for cocktails at The Moon’s Daughter which is serving up the best sunset sips in town. Craving a little culture? Head next door to the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts followed by dinner at Brasserie Mon Chou Chou at the Historic Pearl.

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Dallas Editor

19 Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas (Fun Road Trip Ideas!)

Planning a quick escape from the city and looking for the best weekend getaways from Dallas?

From small towns to state parks to funky cities, we’ve rounded up the best road trips from Dallas (or Fort Worth) here!

With one exception, each of these Dallas weekend getaway ideas is located between 3 and 8 hours from Dallas, making these destinations ideal for trips that last 1-3 nights away (if you’re looking for destinations a bit closer to Dallas, check out our guide to the best day trips from Dallas here ).

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a weekend full of family memories, an adventure with friends, or even a solo escape, one of these weekend getaways from Dallas is no doubt right for you.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Dallas

The capital of Texas and self-proclaimed Live Music Capital of the World is the perfect weekend trip from Dallas for those looking to keep things just a little weird.

Take a dip in one of Austin’s many nearby natural swimming holes , go hunting for street art on South Congress, tour the Texas State Capitol Building, watch the sunset at Mount Bonnell, escape to the Texas Hill Country for the day, and of course enjoy plenty of nightlife!

With a huge variety of fun things to do, Austin is perfect for travelers looking for a great mix of city fun and outdoor adventure.

Driving Distance from Dallas

New Orleans, LA

Featuring some of the best food, music, and culture in all of the country, having a city as incredible as NOLA reachable as a road trip from Dallas is definitely something to take advantage of!

While you’re there, be sure to enjoy Bourbon Street, but get off of it, as well: NOLA is more than just its incredible partying (though the partying does indeed live up to the legends).

Consider visiting the Garden District, taking a ghost tour, visiting the nearby bayou, taking a steamboat cruise, and of course, eating plenty of excellent food, from po’boys to beignets, during the course of your weekend getaway in New Orleans .

7 hours, 45 minutes.

San Antonio, TX

As the most-visited city in all of Texas, San Antonio knows how to show visitors a good time, and it is absolutely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Be sure to visit the famous Alamo, as well as the rest of the San Antonio Missions.

All five missions, including the Alamo, are recognized together as a UNESCO World Heritage Site–the only UNESCO site that exists in Texas!

You’ll also want to sample the Riverwalk, of course, as well as visit the San Fernando Cathedral, go shopping at the Historic Market Square and in La Villita, and visit one of San Antonio’s incredible museums.

When driving from Dallas to San Antonio , you’ll also find plenty to do along the way–if you have time, consider adding a pitstop in Waco or Austin to your trip!

Oklahoma City, OK

Oklahoma City may not be what you immediately think of when considering getting away from Dallas for a weekend, but this smaller city to the north offers a surprising number of things to see and do!

Consider visiting the Bricktown entertainment district, checking out the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, strolling through the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens, and paying your respects at the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Head a bit north of the city, and you’ll quickly find yourself on Route 66, with quirky roadside attractions like the Arcadia Round Barn within easy reach.

3 hours, 15 minutes.

Houston, TX

As the 4th-largest city in the USA, Houston is positively packed with interesting things to do, starting with its most famous attraction of all: the incredible Johnson Space Center!

Once you finish up at the Space Center, though, there’s still plenty to see in Houston, including several parks to visit, an enormous number of museums and art galleries, and plenty of delicious food to eat–Houston is home to one of the best (and most diverse) food scenes in Texas!

Want to squeeze in a quick trip to the beach?

With some careful planning, you can enjoy some time on the sand in Galveston into your weekend in Houston!

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Located on the Arkansas River–and more importantly, along Route 66–Tulsa is an unexpectedly fun place to spend a weekend!

This unexpectedly charming city is complete with Art Deco architecture, plenty of interesting museums (don’t miss the stunningly beautiful Philbrook Museum of Art), and the fun Blue Dome District.

Want to see some classic Route 66 quirkiness while you’re there?

The famous Blue Whale of Catoosa is just outside the city!

4 hours, 30 minutes.

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Dallas

Palo duro canyon state park, tx.

The second-largest canyon in the USA is reachable as a weekend trip from Dallas–and it’s one of the coolest places in all of Texas!

While you’re there, be sure to soak in the excellent views from the top of the canyon, drive the park loop road, and hike a couple of trails. Most importantly, be sure to hike to the Lighthouse formation!

It’s the most famous formation in the park for good reason.

Colorado Bend State Park, TX

Want to feel like you’ve left Texas behind… without actually leaving Texas?

Staring up at 70-foot Gorman Falls can definitely have that effect: this stunning living waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas, and looks more like it belongs in Hawaii than in the Lone Star State!

Come to Colorado Bend State Park for hiking, swimming, and beautiful views in the heart of Texas.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM

Located in southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Cavern is one of the most impressive caves in the USA.

It’s one of the most unique weekend getaways from Dallas!

While you can tour the main cavern, including the aptly-named Big Room, in a single day, with some extra time you can also add some more hiking in the Chihuahuan Desert to your trip… or you can combine your Dallas road trip to New Mexico with our next destination in this guide.

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

Set just south of the New Mexico border in west Texas–only half an hour from Carlsbad Caverns National Park–sits the beautiful Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Here, you can find the four highest peaks in Texas and some excellent hiking , making it another fantastic option for weekend getaways from Dallas.

If you happen to be planning your road trip in the fall, Guadalupe Mountains National Park also happens to be home to some of the prettiest fall foliage in Texas !

Lake Texoma, TX/OK

Located right on the Oklahoma/Texas border, Lake Texoma is a doable day trip from Dallas but definitely deserves to be called out in any guide cataloging road trips from Dallas, as it’s absolutely one of the most popular weekend getaways for locals.

Popular for fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking, Lake Texoma is a fun outdoor getaway for the whole family!

1 hour, 40 minutes.

Hot Springs National Park, AR

Aptly named Hot Springs National Park is the perfect Dallas getaway destination for those looking for a relaxing weekend away, complete with a soak in a thermal spa!

Located in an urban setting surrounded by shops, restaurants, and more, Hot Springs offers a fantastic mix of natural highlights and small-town charm.

Nine historic bathhouses line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, two of which you can still take a soak in today!

Broken Bow, OK

As the gateway to beautiful Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas for those looking for a quiet retreat into nature near a small town.

While in Broken Bow, you can go canoeing on the lake, take a hike, stay in a cozy cabin, and enjoy a relaxing trip that feels worlds away from the city.

Best Small-Town Weekend Trips from Dallas

Fredericksburg, tx.

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is definitely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Featuring plenty of nods to its German heritage, a beautiful downtown packed with shops and restaurants, great antiquing, and–most famously of all– plenty of easily accessible wineries to choose from, Fredericksburg is a fantastic change of pace from Dallas.

The town is also easily accessible to plenty of hiking (including Enchanted Rock ) and other beautiful small Texas towns (like Luckenbach , Johnson City , and Wimberley ).

4 hours, 15 minutes.

Round Top, TX

The tiny town of Round Top, Texas, is best known for its antique shows … but you can shop thousands of antiques, meander through a small town, and enjoy the famous (and delicious) pies at Royers Pie Haven year-round on a Dallas weekend getaway to Round Top!

Don’t miss Henkel Square Market or Rummel Square while you’re there!

And, if you’re into unique roadside stops on your road trips from Dallas, don’t miss the charming nearby St. Martin Catholic Church, which is considered the smallest Catholic church on Earth!

3 hours, 45 minutes.

Long known as the home of Baylor University, Waco has become one of the most popular road trips from Dallas in recent years for a very different reason: the opening of Magnolia Market, owned by Chip & Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame.

Even beyond the immensely popular Silos, though, Waco has plenty to see!

Consider also stopping by the Dr. Pepper Museum, enjoying Baylor’s beautiful campus, and checking out the Wooly Mammoth National Monument during your visit.

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Jefferson, TX

The small town of Jefferson, Texas, combined with nearby Caddo Lake State Park, makes one of the best and most diverse Dallas getaway ideas (for the lovebirds out there, it’s arguably one of the most romantic getaways from Dallas, too).

The best things to do in Jefferson itself include antiquing in the historic downtown center, shopping at the famous Jefferson General Store, staying in one of  the many bed and breakfasts  that the town is famous for, and learning about Jefferson’s railroad history–touring Jay Gould’s opulent private rail car is a great place to start.

From there, head to Caddo Lake, where you’ll find a very different side of the Lone Star State–one dotted with giant cypress trees that drip Spanish moss and leisurely canoe rides.

This isn’t a lake for swimming–the alligators who live in the lake are best avoided–but it is utterly beautiful, and a fantastic road trip from Dallas for those looking to leave city vibes behind entirely.

Branson, MO

Tucked into the Ozarks, Branson is a (polarizing) regional favorite, with a distinct flair that draws in visitors from surrounding states–including people looking for fun road trips from Dallas!

Branson is known for its live entertainment and shows (typically with a country music twist), its easy access to Table Rock Lake, and for being the home of Silver Dollar City, an amusement park that’s a favorite of families visiting the area.

New Braunfels, TX

For a fairly small town, New Braunfels is positively packed with things to do, from the beautiful Gruene Historic District (home to the iconic Gruene Hall), to floating the river, to visiting Schlitterbahn, to touring the incredible Natural Bridge Caverns.

Whether your ideal weekend getaway from Dallas includes natural beauty, dancing the night away, or one of the best theme parks in Texas, you’ll find it in New Braunfels!

3 hours, 40 minutes.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 15 Best Day Trips from Dallas

15 Best Day Trips from Dallas

Dallas, Texas’ third most populous city, holds appeal for its modernity and metropolitan range of things to do and see.

From museums, culture and arts, to a thriving food and drink scene – and not just for Texas barbecue – it’s understandable that its popularity is growing, even among those who aren’t Dallas Cowboys fans.

Don’t just come for its historical significance – it was, after all, the place where JFK was assassinated – come for the broad range of activities to be had within the city, as well as the plentiful options in its nearby surrounds.

Let’s explore the best day trips from Dallas :

1. Beavers Bend State Park

Natural beauty is one of many things that Dallas’ surrounds has going for it, and Beavers Bend State Park is one great example of this.

Located in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, the fresh, clear waters of Beavers Bend Lake is its main source of entertainment, with kayaking, jet skiing and boating on offer.

If you’re after a more relaxed visit, however, nearby Hochatown has great restaurants and wineries to browse; perfect for a tranquil escape from the busy city life of Dallas.

2. Fort Worth

For a truly authentic Texan experience, nearby Fort Worth, ‘where the West begins’, is certainly worthy of a visit (if you’ll pardon the pun). Cowboy boots and ten gallon hats abound, and the place is complete with plenty of Tex-Mex foodie options, as well as the world’s largest honky-tonk at Billy Bob’s.

In Fort Worth you can experience the real Wild West, with cattle drives twice daily and regular rodeos – and all of this is just 45 minutes’ drive to the west of Dallas.

If the cowboy hype just isn’t doing it for you, there’s also the nearby zoo, and plentiful other cultural attractions in the city to keep you entertained.

3. Athens, Texas

If finding the birthplace of the great American hamburger has been languishing on your bucket list for ages, then making the 90-minute drive from Dallas to Athens would be a worthwhile excursion.

Rumor has it that a local man introduced his minced beef sandwich invention at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904, but the quaint town is far from a one-hit-wonder.

The downtown area is full of shops, galleries, restaurants, and historic buildings, and there’s a popular farmer’s market on the weekends as well.

There’s also a scuba park on the town’s clear lake, so plan on making a day of it.

4. Fredericksburg

Some of the state’s best wines hail from Fredericksburg, set right into Texas Hill Country.

Its picturesque setting means Fredericksburg would certainly be a great option for couples or girls groups looking to escape.

With more than two dozen different wineries on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice – but any and all will certainly satisfy.

Then, when you’re done sipping on the region’s best, a stroll along the town’s gorgeous historical streets will provide the perfect way to end your day.

5. Jefferson

The home of US history, Jefferson has heaps of options for culture lovers.

Located in the Piney Woods region, the city’s biggest draw is the historic houses, some of which are opened up for tours during the day, and others of which actually operate as bed-and-breakfasts.

A great place to get a sense of pre-civil war America, Jefferson’s many museums are one of the main things to do there – check out the Gone With the Wind museum for a diverting couple of hours! If museums aren’t really your thing, you can also take a river boat tour of the Big Cypress Bayou.

6. Turner Falls State Park

Yet another nature-lover’s option, Turner Falls State Park offers lots of things to the passing day-tripper, among them swimming holes, picnic spots and hiking trails.

It is also home to Oklahoma’s biggest waterfall, a 77-foot beauty tumbling into the water below.

Visitors can spend the day exploring the walking trails around the park, seeking out caves and strolling along streams, and there’s also opportunity to spot some wildlife along the way.

When you get tired, you can always stop and relax on one of the park’s many sandy beaches.

Not many things would attract a day tripper from Dallas to Waco, if not for the intriguing highlight of the town: the Dr Pepper museum.

Undoubtedly the only one of its kind, the museum was where the popular soda was bottled from 1906 until the 1960s.

Nowadays you can wander round to explore the many exhibits, take a look at the old-fashioned soda fountain, and of course, purchase one of a whole range of Dr Pepper-based memorabilia from the gift shop.

Also nearby is the Magnolia Market, made famous by US HGTV show Fixer Upper.

Many people make the trip to the home improvement store just for the novelty value!

8. Lake Texoma

If you’re after a tranquil day trip, why not take the opportunity to go to Lake Texoma to check out its fishing scene? With over seventy species of fish swimming around in its depths, this is a great place for both amateurs and experts.

There are also lots of other activities on offer in Lake Texoma, from boating on the lake to hiking and biking on the many trails that adorn its circumference.

You can also spend some time exploring some of more than fifty parks that fringe the lake.

9. Davy Crockett National Forest

Though this forest is also used for commercial purposes, there’s plenty of fun activities on offer around the Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area for the whole family.

The 45-acre lake is great for swimming, of course, but also for boating and fishing, and there are some great picnic spots nearby for lunch.

For something a bit different, there’s also Piney Creek Horse Trail, which stretches for over 50 miles through the forest.

It would only be right to see the park on horseback, given its famous namesake.

• 10. Pat Mayse State Park

Located in the town of Arthur, Texas, Pat Mayse State Park is comprised of nearly 10,000 acres of varied environments that are particularly popular with nature lovers, sportsmen, and those looking to escape the big city crowds in Dallas.

Don’t expect to relax with a cappuccino at the welcome center or rub elbows with the park’s staff, because there aren’t any of either.

For rugged and independent types, that means tons of wide-open spaces and minimal crowds.

It’s open to hunters during the various game seasons, and anglers who come match wits with their aquatic quarry at the park’s streams and reservoir.

11. Arbuckle Wilderness Park

Safari in style at Arbuckle Wilderness Park in Davis, Oklahoma.

One of the best places around to get up close and personal with nature, Arbuckle Wilderness Park is situated in more than 200 acres of great outdoors, just waiting to be explored.

Visitors drive through the park where the animals reside, and might even be lucky enough to have some curious creatures come right up to their windscreen.

There’s also a petting zoo and a reptile house located in the park, as well as designated feeding times for some of the animals.

• 12. Palestine, Texas

Even for law-abiding drivers who obey Texas’ liberal speed limits, Palestine is less than two hours from Dallas, making it another fun day trip option.

It’s a great town in which to relax and stock up on Old West regalia like cowboy boots, hats, and leather belts studded with silver and turquoise.

Don’t worry if they’re not your thing, because the town also boasts a number of historic attractions like the Anderson County Courthouse and the Carnegie Library.

There are two golf courses in town too, and four lakes that are magnets for anglers and water recreation enthusiasts during the warm summer months.

Claimed to be the world’s first and oldest flea market, Canton is certainly worth a visit if you’re there for its First Monday Trade Day – check the date before you go.

In operation for over 150 years, since the 1850s, the flea market hosts antique dealers and artists and craftsmen, and generally a whole host of people who just love to chat.

With slightly unsavoury beginnings, as vendors used to set up shop outside the site of local hangings, the Canton market is, in its modern iteration, certainly a sight to be seen.

Bring lots of cash, and get your bargaining hat on.

14. Lake Whitney State Park

Lake Whitney State Park offers all the usual park-bound activities – hiking, biking, swimming and picnicking – but it has some more unusual activities, too.

Visitors can, strangely, check out the scuba diving available in the waters of the lake – and see what it has to offer from an underwater perspective.

You can even do your PADI open water certificate here (though not on a day trip, of course). Diving aside, Lake Whitney also boasts the option of jet skiing, as well as bird watching around its outer fringes – you might spot anything from wild turkeys to bald eagles to burrowing owls.

15. Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose

For one of the more intriguing state park offerings, head to Glen Rose and check out the prehistoric fascinations of Dinosaur Valley, straddling the Paluxy River.

Search along the riverbed and you might just spot the footsteps of an ancient creature, who trod where you stand over 113 million years ago.

You can also use the park’s Mapping Dinosaur Tracks app to help you in your search – an advantage little George Adams didn’t have when he first discovered the tracks in 1909.

Aside from dinosaur hunting, the park can be explored on foot, by mountain bike, or on horseback, and provides more than 20 miles of trails for its eager visitors.

15 Best Day Trips from Dallas:

• Beavers Bend State Park
• Athens, Texas
• Fredericksburg
• Turner Falls State Park
• Lake Texoma
• Davy Crockett National Forest
• Arbuckle Wilderness Park
• Lake Whitney State Park
• Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose

10 Ultimate Day Trips from Dallas within a 2 hour drive

Posted on Last updated: September 10, 2024

Categories Travel , Family Fun

Best Day Trips from Dallas on less than a tank of gasoline

Despite the seemingly endless new things to do in our city, the desire to get out of town for Weekend trips is always popular and Day Trips from Dallas are ideal.

Drive somewhere within 2 hours for a Road Trip in Texas can be the perfect way to escape and explore more of the United States. Let us tell you all about our favorite places, like Waco, Glen Rose , the best lakes and beaches to try, Fort Worth and so many more.

More: Places to visit in Texas

10+ Ultimate Day Trips from Dallas

Travel can be such a chore, so we’ve made it easier than ever to find your ideal RV, trailer, or camper van to get you out there, so you can start your next adventure.

Traveling should be affordable, accessible, and simple, so we’re going back to the basics.

And yes, there are some charming small towns, a few historical sites, and beautiful recreational parks outside of Plano and Dallas but yet perfect for a day trip in Texas. 

More: Choose from one of 45 Lakes and Beaches you can drive to from DFW

Want to go for day Trips from Dallas, within a 2-hour drive for day trips nearby which will give you the out-of-the-city adventure you’re seeking and you’ll be back home in time for dinner? Yes? Perfect.

Here are our Best 10 Day Trips from Dallas & Road Trips from North Texas

Check out these 32 Beautiful Texas State Parks and National Parks within driving distance too that you can also visit as one of your many Day Trips!

Glen Rose, Texas – 1 hour 45m drive

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center , a 1,800-acre ranch is home to over 1,000 animals from almost 50 different species.

It offers visitors a chance to see these exotic, threatened, and endangered animals in a free-range setting.

It also has the largest cheetah breeding facility in the world, they support the health and future of cheetahs in human care and in the wild.

You can get a membership plan, and if you have out-of-town visitors, take them here for one of a few Day Trips – it’s guaranteed that everyone, young and old will have a blast. There is also lodging available if you want to have an overnight. The price includes breakfast and a morning safari guided tour.

More: Here are 6 great spots to go on a visit to Glen Rose, Texas

Dinosaur Valley State Park

YES, it’s for real! Today, you can walk in dinosaur tracks in the bed of the Paluxy River.

There are other things to do here including going for a hike, picnicking, camping, swimming, fishing, riding your horse, bike, watching for wildlife and visiting the interpretive center.

Please be aware that the Dinosaur tracks are in the riverbed and are not always visible. Contact the park before arrival for current trail status and dinosaur track visibility.

Make this one of many day trips from Dallas for a full weekend , by heading down to Glen Rose, where you can enjoy the Dinosaur State Park and Fossil Rim and much more!

Paris, Texas – 1 hour 30m drive

Just an hour and a half away, you can get your “Parisian” adventure, Texas-style by visiting the town’s Eiffel Tower, a 65-foot-tall replica topped with a big red cowboy hat. Sorry, this is one time where “Everything is bigger in Texas” isn’t true.

This is a perfect day or road trip for friends and family . 

You can walk around Historic Downtown Paris and the town square where you see the Culbertson Fountain and take a tour of the historic Sam Bell Maxey House.

For outdoor enthusiasts, you can enjoy walking, jogging, or cycling at Trail de Paris, a beautiful family-friendly trail just within the city limit. Perfect to add to your list of Day Trips!

Lake Texoma – 1 hour 20m drive

Located between Texas and Oklahoma is Lake Texoma, where you can have a relaxing or an energy-pumping adventure.

You pick your experience, and Lake Texoma will give you what you want especially if you are a nature lover and want to escape on one of many day trips from Dallas.

On the Texas side of the lake, there is Eisenhower State Park , which makes it a great landing point for you and your crew.  If you want to stay in the State of Texas, this is a great option for a day trip in Texas.

This park has everything you need for a day trip from Dallas full of fun, for example, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and all the water sports that you can think of for a day trip.

And, don’t forget to check their Junior Ranger Program so your kids can complete a Junior Ranger Badge. 

We found some great places to stay at Lake Texoma too!

Fort Worth – About an hour from Dallas

There is a saying around these parts that goes like “This ain’t my first rodeo!” but many of us haven’t actually been to a rodeo !

A day trip to Fort Worth is a must for your street-cred when next you bring “out of towner visitors” here.

The historic Fort Worth Stockyards has earned Fort Worth, Texas its nickname, Cowtown, and if you come to Texas for a taste of the Old West, this is your perfect place! A visit to Billy Bob’s is a must if you go.

On your way West to Fort Worth, you could even fit in a tour at the AT&T stadium to see where the Dallas Cowboy’s play.

You may want to come back time and time again – be sure to add this to your list of Day Trips from Dallas.

We have some great ideas and offers for Tours and Experiences here and our favorite Museums

Read more: How to spend a Family Fun day in Fort Worth 

There are so many things to do in Fort Worth for the whole family but a favorite to mention is the Fort Worth Zoo – which has been named as a top zoo in the nation by Family Life magazine, the Los Angeles Times and USA Today.

You can get a 50% discount on the Pogo Pass membership which gets you admission free to the Zoo! 

Turner Falls in Davis , Oklahoma – 2 hour drive

Head North to Turner Falls Park, known for excellent hiking with beautiful scenery and as the home to Oklahoma’s largest waterfall.

It is open all year long, but in summer this is especially a great spot to cool off from hot summer days.

The park covers 1,500 acres (6.1 km2), which contains miles of trails, caves, and geological features. One of the great features you do not want to miss here is Collings Castle. And, there are campsites and cabin rentals available if you’re going to go for an overnight stay.

There are great campsites at Arbuckle Mountains which is very close by.

If you’re planning to visit this area, we recommend that you also go to the drive-thru safari at the Arbuckle Wilderness Park.

Waco, TX – 2 hour drive

Waco, Texas is the home of Dr. Pepper, and Baylor University, and Magnolia Market has a lot to offer for a day trip.

This small city has become a popular day-trip destination since Chip, and Joanna Gaines started appearing on HGTV’s Fixer Upper.

If you a fan of the show, then that would be one good reason to visit this place. However, there are a lot of other things to do other than visiting the Magnolia Market, and Magnolia Table.

There is the Dr. Pepper Museum, Texas Ranger Museum, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, and Cameron Park Zoo, to name a few.

It’s also a great place for a Weekend getaway and one of our favorite day trips from Dallas.

More: Here are 32 of the absolute best places to eat, shop and things to do in Waco, Texas!

Canton, TX – 1 hour drive

Love to shop for antique pieces? Well then head to Canton, Texas!

Known as the home of one of the largest flea markets in the country. The “ First Monday Trade Days market ” is an event that is held on one weekend per month from Thursday to Sunday before the first Monday of the month.

However, you can come here any day to visit and check out the shops around the square downtown.

If you are tired of shopping or not shopping, this small town offers a lot more!

There are other things to do like a water park, a golf course, museums, a lakes golf course, a zip-line course, and many other local area attractions.

Check out some of these lists of places to include for your visit.

Tyler, TX – 1 hour 45m drive

Go East on one of your Day Trips From Dallas. The Rose Capital of America and home of the Annual Rose Festival because it has the nation’s most extensive municipal rose garden. Tyler Rose Garden is a 14-acre park filled with the beauty of hundreds of different varieties of roses.

It is worth visiting, and every October is a celebration of its beauty, the annual Rose Festival. 

You can also check out Tyler State Park, a beautiful park for you and your family to enjoy.

There are ample activities for the kids and adults to enjoy like swimming, boating, hiking, camping, etc. 

Jacksonville, TX – 2 hour drive

Jacksonville, Texas, was once known as the Tomato Capital of the World and the town still celebrates its tomato history with a Tomato Fest every second Saturday each June.

So many fun activities, including a tomato eating contest, tomato peeling contest, tomato packing contest, best homegrown tomato contest, salsa contest, etc.  All things tomato! 

Before you get into town, remember to stop by at Loves Lookout off Highway 69, you can take in the view of East Texas. With an elevation of 713 feet, it has long been known for its spectacular views to the east. It is also a perfect place for a picnic or to take a walk with the whole family.   

And, Jacksonville is where the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari & Wild Animal Park is located. 

You can see a beautiful variety of wildlife and exotic animal at your own pace from the comfort of your own vehicle.

These are our favorite 10 places that are easily reachable within 2 hours of DFW, perfect for a Day Trip.

We also love these great ideas and if you’d like to go a little further you can head to 45 Lakes and Beaches you can drive to from DFW

Kim, from My Traveling Roads also has some great ideas on short trips from DFW too!

What are yours?

All articles and photos belong to Plano Moms LLC unless otherwise noted. It’s all copyrighted. If you wish to request to use our content  Email Us  first. All rights reserved. This site uses cookies to enhance your experience. We make no guarantees of any prices or venue-specific information listed on our site. We are not responsible for content on external websites linked to, including linked resources, an external blog post, any partner site, hotel property sites, or affiliate sites. We only write about places we love but we can’t guarantee you will love them, too. Posts may contain affiliate links at no cost to you. Some of our experiences have been hosted but this never impacts how we share the experience with you – opinions are always our own! We do not sell links or accept unsolicited guest posts under any circumstances. United States Copyright, Plano Moms LLC

Hi, I’m Abbie, super mom, and busy-bee who moved to Plano from London, England with my husband and 2 kids, Jesse and Lucy, in the Summer of 2013. Plano Moms was my lifeline when I arrived as I didn’t know anyone or anything about my new city that I now called home. When I’m not being a Plano Mom or being a taxi service to my kids, working out, cooking and reading (when I find the time!)

Kim Croisant

Wednesday 15th of September 2021

Thank you for including my quick getaways from DFW in this wonderful post here. I love all the destinations listed here!!

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Relocating to DFW

11 drivable day trips from dallas.

Summer is in full swing and we’ve rounded up some fun day trips just outside Dallas! No road trip is complete without starting and ending with a clean car so make sure to go to Carnation Auto Spa to get your car road trip ready!

Updated June 2024

DAY TRIPS FROM DALLAS

Ham orchards.

This peach paradise has been open since 1979 and features five orchards with over 10,000 peach trees, two blackberry patches, and an adorable Market Store. Stop by to grab some juicy peaches to take home, and don't forget to try their famous peach-flavored ice cream and peach pulled pork BBQ! Learn more.

45 minutes from Dallas

Terrell, TX | Directions

FIRST MONDAY TRADE DAYS

Explore the world’s largest and oldest flea market featuring over 5,000 vendors! This place is truly a vintage lovers haven with 45 acres of shopping including jewelry, furniture, clothing, and so much more. The market is only open for a few days each month, so check their calendar before you go!

1 hour from Dallas

Canton, TX | Directions

TX TURE FARM

This family-owned 23-acre farm offers fun activities like alpaca yoga, candle making, and even a Walk-A-Paca experience! Plus, you can shop homemade products using ingredients grown on the farm including lavender, honey, and more! Temporarily closed as of June 2024, check their website for updates .

Aubrey, TX |  Directions

CHOCTAW CASINO & RESORT

If you're looking for a fun weekend getaway, Choctaw Casino and Resort is a perfect escape. Enjoy thousands of slot machines, a variety of table games, a resort-style pool, multiple dining options, entertainment venues, a spa, and more!

1.5 hours from Dallas

Durant, OK | Directions

DINOSAUR VALLEY STATE PARK

Did you know dinosaurs used to roam around Dallas-Fort Worth, along an ancient ocean?! Head to this incredible state park to walk in real-life dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River bed! Spend the day hiking, picnicking, camping, swimming, fishing, biking, or even horseback riding.

Glen Rose, TX | Directions

This 1,800-acre ranch houses over 1,000 animals in a free-range setting for visitors to observe exotic and endangered animals! Visitors can see giraffes, zebra, goats, antelope, and more on the 7-mile drive-through safari. Check out our recent experience .  (Featured header image)

MAGNOLIA MARKET

This Texas favorite was founded by the iconic Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of the HGTV show Fixer Upper! Enjoy the market, bakery, garden, and adorable food trucks, and restaurant. Don't forget to snap a few Instagram pics!

Waco, TX | Directions

LAKE MINERAL WELLS STATE PARK

Experience healing mineral water, explore historic sites, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing! We recommend the Penitentiary Hollow hike , which has amazing scenery and unique rock formations. Be sure to make a reservation, the park often reaches capacity fairly quickly!

Mineral Wells, TX | Directions

This premier surf destination has a state-of-the-art artificial wave system, and you can even take surf lessons! There are also massive waterslides, a cable park, and a lazy river. Our go-to is to hit the beach bar and spend the day chilling at their private beach!

TURNER FALLS PARK

This 1,500-acre park is home to Oklahoma’s largest waterfall, standing at 77 feet tall! Plus, visitors can explore miles of trails, caves, campsites, and more. Pro tip: get there early, as they only let a certain number of people in the park each day!

2 hours from Dallas

Davis, OK | Directions

Situated on the border of Texas and Louisiana, Caddo Lake is one of Texas’s only natural lakes! The State Park offers 25,000 acres of beautiful bayous, with a fishing pier, boat ramps, cabins, and more.

3 hours from Dallas

Karnak, TX | Directions

Carnation Auto Spa

One of the most important parts of a road trip is cleaning your car before and after! Carnation can help you get your car road trip ready with their team of experts! They do such an amazing job plus they offer great deals on their monthly wash plans!

Get unlimited washes FREE for one month when using our code DALLASITES101 after signing up for a wash plan!

Multiple DFW locations | Find a location

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The 9 Best Day Trips from Austin

Published : September 17, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, WA

Table of contents.

• Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
• New Braunfels, TX
• Pedernales Falls State Park
• San Antonio, TX
• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
• Fredericksburg, TX
• Dripping Springs, TX
• Lockhart, TX
• Inks Lake State Park

Plan Your Trip to Austin with AAA

Austin, Texas is known around the world for its live-music scene and an artsy, creative vibe infused Texas spirit. From museums and concert halls to purveyors of authentic Texas barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine—and a crammed events calendar that includes the well-known Austin City Limits Music Festival—the Lone Star State’s fourth-largest city offers plenty to do, see and hear all year-round.

Often referred to as the live music capital of the world, Austin is surrounded by a diverse and beautiful landscape, including the charming towns and scenic woodlands of the Texas Hill Country just to the west. This picturesque area offers a perfect escape for those seeking somewhere outside the city to escape to during a visit. Below, explore our list of the best day trips from Austin.

1. Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

• Distance From Austin: 40 miles
• Address: 24518 E. FM 1431, Marble Falls, TX

Established in 1992 to protect the habitats of two threatened native songbirds—the golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo—Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is a premier destination near Austin for nature enthusiasts and those captivated by the beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

The refuge features stunning canyons and ravines carved into the Balcones Escarpment, which forms the eastern edge of the Edwards Plateau, a vast landscape at the southern end of the Great Plains and the heart of Texas. Visitors can explore rolling juniper-oak woodlands and oak thickets by hiking trails such as Cactus Rock, Shin Oak, Vista Knoll, and Ridgeline, all while enjoying the natural beauty of the Lone Star State.

2. New Braunfels, TX

• Distance From Austin: 50 miles

German immigrants settled New Braunfels in the mid-1840s on land purchased by Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels. The still-strong German-American heritage is one of the many reasons to visit, alongside annual cultural celebrations such as Wurstfest and Wassailfest.

After admiring architecture in the Downtown New Braunfels and Gruene historic districts, consider following in the paths of the locals and cool off with a tubing float on the Guadalupe or Comal rivers (or a visit to the Schlitterbahn Waterpark). The town also harbors a number of intriguing museums, including the Sophienburg Museum & Archives, Heritage Village: Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture and the McKenna Children’s Museum.

3. Pedernales Falls State Park

• Distance From Austin: 30 miles
• Address: 2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX

Pedernales Falls State Park is near the top of many Austin day trip lists, given how close it is to the Live Music Capital of the World and the slice of the Texas Hill Country it preserves. The park is named for the splendid cascade where the Pedernales River drops some 50 feet down pale, potholed Marble Falls Limestone over about 3,000 feet.

A quarter-mile hike leads to a popular swimming hole, while extensive trails offer immersive sightseeing for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. From bald-cypress along the river to mixed-hardwood draws and oak-juniper hills, there’s a great selection of Hill Country habitats to appreciate. Other activities include angling (for catfish, sunfish and other quarry) and paddling.

4. San Antonio, TX

• Distance From Austin: 80 miles

Texas’s second-biggest city is easily another of the top day trips from Austin, as the number-one tourist attraction in the state lies in Downtown San Antonio. The Alamo is one of five centuries-old Spanish missions composing the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But this city has plenty more to offer, from a variety of restaurants and shops to such attractions as the San Antonio Botanical Garden, Tower of the Americas, SeaWorld San Antonio, San Antonio Zoo, McNary Art Museum, Six Flags Fiesta Texas and the traditional El Mercado market.

5. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

• Distance From Austin: 100 miles
• Address/Location: 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX

The huge pink granite dome of Enchanted Rock, rising nearly 430 feet from its base, forms a mighty landmark on the Llano Uplift of the Edwards Plateau. This isolated rock mountain, or monadnock, was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1971 and forms the centerpiece of a state natural area that also encompasses several other, lesser domes, including Little Dome and Turkey Peak. Close to 11 miles of hiking trails await you here, including the standout Summit Trail leading to the top of Enchanted Rock and its sweeping Texas Hill Country vista.

6. Fredericksburg, TX

• Distance From Austin: 78 miles

Another well-known hub of Central Texas’s rich German heritage, Fredericksburg was founded in 1846 by Otfried Haus Freiherr von Meusebach and the Society for the Protection of German Immigrants (Adelsverein). You can try German-style beer at Altstadt Brewery or Fredericksburg Brewing Co., enjoy Deutschland cuisine at hotspots such as Opa’s Smoked Meats and listen for the old “Texas German” dialect still spoken occasionally in the area.

Fredericksburg is also known for its viticultural industry, with over 60 wineries and tasting rooms to visit in the vicinity. One such location is Wildseed Farms, the largest wildflower farm in the country—as well as the outstanding National Museum of the Pacific War. The Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site, meanwhile, includes a living-history farm and herds of American bison and Texas longhorn cattle.

7. Dripping Springs, TX

• Distance From Austin: 24 miles

The small, friendly town of Dripping Springs —“Gateway to the Hill Country”— acts as one of the many great day trip sports from Austin. Here you can relish the bright starshine of this International Dark Sky Community, visit the natural limestone swimming hole of the Hamilton Pool Preserve and stroll amid the eye-catching vintage buildings of Mercer Street, where you’ll also find the namesake Dripping Springs themselves.

Fans of country music will also thrill at the area’s musical heritage: A ranch outside town hosted the 1972 Dripping Springs Reunion, which featured such performers as Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Charlie Rich, Loretta Lynn and Kris Kristofferson and inspired Nelson’s famous (and ongoing) Fourth of July Picnic, held for the very first time at the same venue the following year.

8. Lockhart, TX

• Distance From Austin: 35 miles

Be sure to bring your appetite when you come to Lockhart as this is the Texas Legislature-declared Barbecue Capital of Texas. At long-running joints such as the Original Black’s Barbecue, Chisholm Trail Bar-B-Q and Smitty’s Market, you can sample brisket, ribs, smoked chicken and other barbecue classics, made as authentic as it can get.

The town also includes some handsome historical architecture to appreciate post-BBQ, such as the Caldwell County Courthouse (1894), the Gaslight-Baker Theatre (1920) and the Classical Revival-style Dr. Eugene Clark Library (1899), the oldest continuously operating public library in the Lone Star State.

9. Inks Lake State Park

• Distance From Austin: 67 miles
• Address: 3630 Park Rd 4 West, Burnet, TX

Inks Lake State Park is a beloved Hill Country destination, offering both outdoor adventure and peaceful natural beauty. Sitting along the shores of the 831-acre Inks Lake on the Colorado River, it's a great Austin day trip spot for swimming, kayaking, fishing for bass and sunfish or even trying your hand at water skiing. For those who prefer to stay on land, the park features nine miles of scenic hiking trails and unique rock formations, known as Valley Spring Gneiss, which are perfect for exploring.

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