One of the best things about living in Austin is how easily you can escape it. Within an hour or two, the landscape shifts from city skyline to rolling Hill Country, spring-fed swimming holes, historic small towns, and lakeside views.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, live music, wine tasting, or just a peaceful change of scenery, these five day trips make for perfect getaways from Austin.
1. New Braunfels & Gruene — Rivers, History, and Live Music
About an hour south of Austin, New Braunfels blends Texas and German heritage with classic Hill Country charm. It’s best known for tubing on the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers — a favorite warm-weather activity.
Just minutes away is the historic district of Gruene (pronounced “green”), where you can stroll through preserved 19th-century buildings, browse boutiques, and catch live music at Gruene Hall, the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas.
Best for: river floats, live music, relaxed Hill Country vibes.
2. Wimberley — Swimming Holes and Small-Town Charm
Less than an hour from Austin, Wimberley feels like a hidden retreat tucked among cypress trees and limestone bluffs. The town is especially popular for Blue Hole Regional Park, a spring-fed swimming hole with clear water and shaded picnic areas.
Beyond the water, Wimberley offers art galleries, boutiques, local cafés, and a relaxed pace that makes it ideal for a slow afternoon.
Best for: families, nature lovers, and summer swimming.
3. Dripping Springs & Hamilton Pool Preserve — Waterfalls and Wineries
Just 30 to 45 minutes west of Austin, Dripping Springs serves as the gateway to the Texas Hill Country. The highlight is Hamilton Pool Preserve, a stunning natural grotto formed thousands of years ago. A limestone overhang frames a turquoise pool fed by a seasonal waterfall — one of the most photographed natural spots in Texas.
After hiking and swimming (reservations are often required), you can explore the area’s growing number of wineries, breweries, and distilleries.
Best for: scenic hikes, photography, and wine tasting.
4. Johnson City — Presidential History and Hill Country Views
Roughly 90 minutes west of Austin, Johnson City offers a mix of small-town atmosphere and national history. The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park allows visitors to tour President Lyndon B. Johnson’s boyhood home and the “Texas White House.”
Nearby, Pedernales Falls State Park features scenic limestone waterfalls and hiking trails along the Pedernales River — perfect for a picnic or peaceful afternoon walk.
Best for: history buffs and outdoor explorers.
5. Marble Falls — Lakeside Relaxation
About an hour northwest of Austin, Marble Falls offers beautiful views along the Highland Lakes chain. The town is perfect for boating, lakeside dining, and scenic drives through rolling hills.
Spend the day exploring local shops, relaxing near the water, or enjoying fresh air and open skies — a refreshing contrast to city life.
Best for: lake lovers, couples, and laid-back day trips.
Making the Most of Your Day Trip
- Start early to avoid traffic and weekend crowds.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Check ahead for reservations at parks and swimming preserves.
- Turn the drive itself into part of the adventure — Hill Country roads are part of the experience.
From historic dance halls and presidential landmarks to swimming holes and scenic lakes, these day trips showcase the diversity and natural beauty that surround Austin. Sometimes the best way to appreciate the city is to leave it — just for the day.