Need a quick getaway beyond the city? I’ve found that some of the best escapes from San Antonio (or even my home base in Austin) are just a scenic drive away. From Hill Country vineyards to riverfront strolls and underground wonders, these spots gave me the perfect mix of adventure and Texas charm. If you’re looking for your next favorite day trip, these are the ones I always suggest.

Highlights:

  • Every time I visit Fredericksburg, I end up sipping wine and browsing shops for hours—if you love German-inspired charm and a good tasting flight, you’ll love it here too.
  • I’ve hiked Enchanted Rock more times than I can count, and the views from the top never disappoint. You’ll want to start early for cool temps and fewer crowds.
  • Gruene has this laid-back riverfront vibe I keep going back to—after browsing shops, I always make time to catch live music at Gruene Hall. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
  • If you’re in the mood for something unexpected, the underground beauty of Cascade Caverns and Natural Bridge Caverns is incredible. I toured both and left feeling like a kid again.
  • On hot days, I always head to New Braunfels. Tubing down the Comal River or just relaxing by the water with a picnic is the perfect way to reset. You’ll feel like you’re miles away from city life.

Best Day Trips from San Antonio, Texas:

Austin - 1 hour and 30 minutes from San Antonio

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Austin - 1 hour and 30 minutes from San Antonio - Explore vibrant live music scenes, visit historic landmarks, and enjoy a quick city trip.                                    

Blue Hole Nature Park - a 1 hour and 45-minute drive

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Blue Hole Nature Park - a 1 hour and 45-minute drive - Swim in crystal-clear waters, walk along scenic trails, and admire towering cypress trees.                                    

Canyon Lake - 1 hour from San Antonio

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Canyon Lake - 1 hour from San Antonio - Go boating on turquoise waters, explore hiking trails, and enjoy a peaceful retreat.                                    

Kuhlman Cellars - 1 hour and 30 minutes

Kuhlman Cellars

Kuhlman Cellars - 1 hour and 30 minutes - Visit a boutique winery, admire vineyard views, and taste locally crafted Texas wines.                                    

Comanche Lookout Park - a 25-minute drive

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Comanche Lookout Park - a 25-minute drive - Hike scenic hilltop trails, admire panoramic city views, and explore historic ruins.                                    

Corpus Christi - 2 hours and 15 minutes

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Corpus Christi - 2 hours and 15 minutes - Walk along sandy beaches, visit the Texas State Aquarium, and explore lively waterfront districts.                                    

Davy Crockett National Forest - a 4-hour drive

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Davy Crockett National Forest - a 4-hour drive - Hike through towering pines, admire diverse wildlife, and explore Texas’s natural beauty.                                    

Dr Pound Historical Farmstead Museum

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Dr Pound Historical Farmstead Museum - Walk through historic homesteads, admire antique artifacts, and explore Texas pioneer history.                                    

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

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Enchanted Rock State Natural Area - Hike up a massive pink granite dome, admire stunning views, and explore rugged trails.                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)