Road Tripping in Texas | Top 15 Best Road Trips in Texas
When it comes to road tripping in Texas, the options are as vast and diverse as the state itself. From the sprawling deserts of West Texas to the rolling hills of the Hill Country and the vibrant cultural centres in its major cities, a Texas road trip promises adventure, history, and stunning landscapes. Join us on a journey to explore the best road trips in Texas, as we share the best Texas road trip itinerary that showcases the essence of the Lone Star State of Texas.
In order to tick of these Top Road Trips in Texas, and enjoy a once in a lifetime road tripping in Texas experience, you need to rent a self drive car, and we recommend you to book your Rental Self Drive Car in Texas on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
Contents
- Top 15 Road Trips in Texas
- 1. The Hill Country Wine Trail
- 2. The Texas Gulf Coast
- 3. Big Bend National Park
- 4. Texas BBQ Trail
- 5. Texas Independence Trail
- 6. The Bluebonnet Trail
- 7. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
- 8. Texas Lakes Trail
- 9. East Texas Piney Woods
- 10. The Texas Pecan Trail
- 11. The Chisholm Trail
- 12. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
- 13. The Texas Tropical Trail
- 14. The Texas Plains Trail
- 15. The Texas Panhandle Heritage Foundation
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Top 15 Road Trips in Texas
1. The Hill Country Wine Trail
Start: Austin, Texas
End: Fredericksburg, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 80 miles
Sip your way through the picturesque Texas Hill Country, known for its rolling vineyards and charming towns. Sample award-winning wines in wineries that offer stunning hillside views, and explore Fredericksburg’s historic Main Street, filled with boutique shops and German-influenced cuisine. Don’t miss the stunning wildflower displays in spring, including bluebonnets, that carpet the landscape.
2. The Texas Gulf Coast
Start: Houston, Texas
End: South Padre Island, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 350 miles
Embark on a journey from the vibrant city of Houston to the serene shores of South Padre Island. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning coastal vistas, fresh Gulf seafood, and a range of water-based activities, including deep-sea fishing and dolphin watching. Explore the rich maritime history of Galveston and enjoy the island life on South Padre, with its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife.
3. Big Bend National Park
Start: El Paso, Texas
End: Big Bend National Park, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 330 miles
Experience the rugged beauty of West Texas as you venture to Big Bend National Park, which also happens to be one of the Best National Parks in the USA. Marvel at the towering canyons, explore the banks of the Rio Grande River, and camp under a star-studded sky. Hiking trails lead to breathtaking vistas, while the park’s remote location offers a true escape from the everyday. Witness the fiery colours of sunrise and sunset against the dramatic desert landscape, and don’t forget to visit the historic Terlingua Ghost Town nearby.
4. Texas BBQ Trail
Start: Austin, Texas
End: Lockhart, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 30 miles
Immerse yourself in the tantalising world of Texas barbecue. Your journey takes you to iconic smokehouses in Austin, Lockhart, Luling, and more, where you’ll feast on mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and sausages, each cooked to perfection with their unique flavours and secret rubs. Meet pit masters who have perfected the art of smoking meat, and delve into the rich barbecue traditions that have made Texas a BBQ mecca.
5. Texas Independence Trail
Start: San Antonio, Texas
End: Goliad State Park, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 100 miles
Trace the footsteps of Texas history on this road trip. Visit the hallowed grounds of the Alamo in San Antonio, the birthplace of Texas at Washington-on-the-Brazos, and the preserved colonial-era mission at Goliad State Park, where tales of independence and courage come to life. Learn about the sacrifices made by early Texas settlers and the events that shaped the state’s fight for independence.
6. The Bluebonnet Trail
Start: Austin, Texas
End: Texas Hill Country
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 50 miles
Spring in Texas brings fields of vibrant bluebonnets, creating a mesmerising carpet of blue. The countryside around Austin and the Hill Country becomes a tapestry of wildflowers, providing a stunning backdrop for scenic drives, picnics, and outdoor photography sessions. Witness nature’s vibrant display, and explore the charming towns of the Hill Country, each offering unique attractions and a warm Texan welcome.
7. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Start: Amarillo, Texas
End: Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 120 miles
Referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers jaw-dropping views and vibrant red-rock landscapes. Hike along the rim or venture into the canyon, camp under the starry sky, and be prepared to be awed by the dramatic beauty of this hidden gem. Explore the park’s extensive trail system, spot local wildlife, and enjoy the awe-inspiring colours of the canyon walls during sunrise and sunset.
PS – Useful Travel Resources to use while heading to Texas to tick off these Best Road Trips in Texas –
- Book your Rental Car in Texas on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
- Book the best Texas Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
- Book your Accommodation in Texas on Agoda or Booking.com
- Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
- Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Texas, to enjoy premium Airport Lounge Access.
- Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free road trip vacation in Texas.
8. Texas Lakes Trail
Start: Austin, Texas
End: Possum Kingdom Lake, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 200 miles
Escape to the tranquility of Texas lakes. Discover the clear waters of Lake Travis and Lake Buchanan, ideal for boating and swimming. Your journey culminates at Possum Kingdom Lake, a picturesque spot surrounded by limestone cliffs, offering an array of water activities and breathtaking sunsets. Enjoy water-sports, fishing, and hiking around these stunning lakes, and take in the natural beauty of the Hill Country.
9. East Texas Piney Woods
Start: Houston, Texas
End: Jefferson, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 250 miles
Dive into the lush pine forests of East Texas. Explore the towering pines of Davy Crockett National Forest and step back in time in Jefferson, a charming town with historic buildings and scenic riverboat rides, offering a taste of Southern hospitality. Stroll through picturesque streets lined with antebellum architecture, and experience the rich history and culture of East Texas.
10. The Texas Pecan Trail
Start: San Antonio, Texas
End: Seguin, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 40 miles
Satisfy your sweet cravings with a road trip dedicated to pecans, the state’s favourite nut. Discover the secrets behind delicious pecan pies, visit pecan farms, and savour pecan-related treats and desserts unique to Texas. Delve into the world of this versatile nut, from freshly roasted pecans to pecan brittle and pralines, and experience the delectable flavours of Texas.
11. The Chisholm Trail
Start: San Antonio, Texas
End: Fort Worth, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 275 miles
Step into the Old West on the historic Chisholm Trail. Explore the cultural blend of San Antonio, soak up the rich history of the Fort Worth Stockyards, and uncover the cowboy heritage that has left an indelible mark on Texas. Enjoy live rodeo shows, visit historic cattle ranches, and dine in authentic Texan steakhouses that pay homage to the cowboy way of life.
12. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Start: El Paso, Texas
End: Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 100 miles
Embark on a rugged adventure in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Hike through challenging terrain, summit Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, and relish the sweeping panoramic vistas that reward your efforts. Experience the thrill of wilderness exploration, and immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of this remote desert park. Visit the salt flats and unique geological features that define this remarkable landscape.
13. The Texas Tropical Trail
Start: Corpus Christi, Texas
End: Rio Grande Valley, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 150 miles
Dive into a unique cultural and natural experience as you journey south to the Texas Tropical Trail. Explore the Rio Grande Valley, known for its rich Hispanic heritage, and discover the lush landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant communities of this enchanting region. Visit butterfly gardens, birding hotspots, and historic missions, all while enjoying the flavours of Tex-Mex cuisine and the warmth of the local culture.
14. The Texas Plains Trail
Start: Lubbock, Texas
End: Amarillo, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 120 miles
Journey through the vast Texas plains and explore the unique culture of Lubbock and Amarillo. Visit renowned museums, discover the region’s musical heritage, and indulge in local culinary delights, all set against the backdrop of the sweeping plains. Explore the West Texas landscape, experience the musical legacy of Buddy Holly, and immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of Amarillo.
15. The Texas Panhandle Heritage Foundation
Start: Amarillo, Texas
End: Shamrock, Texas
Total Distance Covered: Approximately 100 miles
Unearth the history of the Texas Panhandle at the Pioneer West Museum in Shamrock. Immerse yourself in the Old West, explore the exhibits, and gain insight into the lives of the pioneers who shaped this region. Discover the captivating stories of cowboys, cattle ranchers, and the role of the railroad in transforming the Panhandle, all within the backdrop of this charming Texas town.
In conclusion, road trips in Texas are an adventure waiting to happen. From wineries to canyons, beaches to BBQ, and everything in between, the Lone Star State has it all. So, pack your bags, gas up the car, and hit the road for one of the best road trips in Texas.
Your Texas road trip itinerary promises unforgettable memories, captivating landscapes, and a taste of true Texan hospitality.
Discover the heart of the USA on these epic road trips in Texas.
And if you are wondering, Where to stay in Texas? All you have to do is, fill in your dates, the destination and click on the search button in the box below, and save upto 50% on the Best Hotels and Resorts in Texas.
If you love Road Trips, you might also want to check out these Best Travel Blogs featuring the Most Scenic Road Trips in Europe, 5 Scenic Road Trips in United Kingdom and the Best Road Trips in the World.
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