Escape the City: 10 Picturesque Day Trips to Experience from the Heart of Texas
There’s no denying that Houston is a vibrant and exciting city with a wealth of sights and attractions to offer. But sometimes, it’s nice to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the surrounding area. Fortunately, Texas is home to some stunning scenery and incredible destinations that are just a short drive or train ride away.
So if you’re looking to explore beyond Houston and discover some of the Lone Star State’s hidden gems, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 10 scenic day trips that are perfect for escaping the city and experiencing the natural beauty of Texas. From charming small towns to breathtaking national parks, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, these day trips will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of the most beautiful parts of Texas. So pack a picnic, grab your camera, and get ready to hit the road on one of these amazing day trips!
Lake Livingston
Located about 75 miles north of Houston, Lake Livingston is the second largest lake in Texas, covering over 90,000 acres. It offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping.
For fishing enthusiasts, Lake Livingston is known for its large population of catfish, as well as largemouth bass, white bass, and crappie. There are several marinas and boat ramps available for those who want to explore the lake by boat.
The Lake Livingston State Park is a popular destination for camping, with over 140 campsites available. The park also has hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beach for swimming.
In addition to outdoor activities, there are also several small towns located around the lake that offer unique shopping and dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventure-packed weekend, Lake Livingston is worth the trip.
Galveston Island
Overview
Located about an hour’s drive from Houston, Galveston Island is a popular day trip destination for those looking for sun, sand, and sea. The island is approximately 27 miles long and three miles wide, offering plenty of space to relax, explore, and have fun.
Things to Do
- Visit the historic Pleasure Pier, which features carnival games, rides, and tasty food options.
- Check out the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier Aquarium, which has 21 different exhibits showcasing sea creatures from all over the world.
- Take a stroll along the Seawall Urban Park, a scenic promenade that stretches for 10 miles and offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Visit the Galveston Island State Park, which has miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as campsites for those who want to spend the night.
Where to Eat
Galveston Island has a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront cafes to upscale seafood restaurants:
- Shrimp ‘N Stuff is a popular spot for seafood lovers, serving up fresh shrimp, oysters, and more.
- Miller’s Seawall Grill is a local institution that has been serving up delicious burgers, sandwiches, and seafood since 1978.
- BLVD. Seafood is a great option for those looking for a more upscale dining experience, with a menu featuring fresh seafood and prime steaks.
| Location: | Galveston Island, Texas |
|---|---|
| Distance from Houston: | Approximately 50 miles |
| Population: | Approximately 50,000 |
| Weather: | Warm and humid, with highs in the 80s and 90s during the summer. |
Brazos Bend State Park
Located just 45 miles southwest of Houston, Brazos Bend State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. The park spans over 5,000 acres of wetlands and grassy prairies, making it a great destination for fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching.
One of the park’s main attractions is the opportunity to spot alligators in the wild. Visitors can safely observe these impressive creatures from a distance, making for a unique and memorable experience. Other possible wildlife sightings include turtles, snakes, and a variety of bird species.
In addition to wildlife watching, Brazos Bend State Park features over 35 miles of hiking trails. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, you’re sure to find a trail that suits your needs. One popular trail is the Creekfield Lake Nature Trail, which provides stunning views of the park’s lakes and wetlands.
For those who prefer fishing, the park’s four lakes are stocked with catfish, bass, and other species. Anglers must have a valid Texas fishing license and follow all state regulations.
Overall, a day trip to Brazos Bend State Park is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of Houston and connect with nature. Be sure to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water, as temperatures can get quite hot in the summer months.
Round Top
Located just over an hour and a half from Houston, Round Top is a charming small town with a population of less than 100. Despite its size, there is plenty to see and do in Round Top, particularly for those interested in antiques.
The town is best known for its bi-annual Round Top Antiques Fair, which draws thousands of visitors from around the world. The event features hundreds of vendors selling everything from furniture to clothing to decorative items.
In addition to the fair, Round Top itself is a lovely place to spend a day. The town has several antique shops and art galleries, as well as a number of charming cafes and restaurants. Visitors can also explore the nearby countryside by taking a scenic drive or going for a hike.
Overall, Round Top is a great destination for those who enjoy antiques, art, and small-town charm. And for visitors who want to stay longer, there are several bed and breakfasts in the area where they can spend the night.
San Antonio
San Antonio is a city located about 200 miles south of Houston, and it is known for its rich history, delicious food, and famous attractions like the Alamo and the River Walk.
The Alamo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for anyone visiting San Antonio. It is a historic mission where a small group of Texans fought against Santa Anna’s army in 1836. The Alamo is a symbol of Texas’ fight for independence and an important part of Texan history.
The River Walk is a popular attraction that runs through downtown San Antonio and is famous for its restaurants, shops, and nightlife. A boat tour along the river is a great way to see the city and learn about its history.
San Antonio is also known for its delicious food. Tex-Mex cuisine is a staple in the city, with dishes like fajitas, nachos, and tacos being popular options. The city is also home to the famous Big Red soda, a regional favorite.
Other popular attractions in San Antonio include the San Antonio Zoo, SeaWorld San Antonio, and the Tower of the Americas. Whether you’re looking to learn more about Texan history or just enjoy some delicious food, San Antonio is a great day trip option from Houston.
Questions & Answers:
What are some popular day trips from Houston?
Some popular day trips from Houston include visiting Galveston Island, exploring the natural beauty of Brazos Bend State Park, touring the Space Center Houston, taking a wine tour in the Hill Country, and enjoying the historical sites in San Antonio.
Is it possible to take a beach day trip from Houston?
Yes, it’s possible to take a day trip to Galveston Island which has several beautiful beaches and is only an hour away from Houston.
Are there any nature reserves close to Houston that are worth visiting?
Yes, Brazos Bend State Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and is located only 45 minutes away from Houston. It’s home to an abundance of wildlife including alligators, deer, and hundreds of species of birds.
What can I expect to see on a wine tour in the Hill Country?
On a wine tour in the Hill Country, you can expect to visit several wineries and taste a variety of wines. You’ll also enjoy picturesque views of rolling hills, vineyards, and wildflowers. Some tours even offer a gourmet picnic or lunch at a local restaurant.
What historical sites can I visit on a day trip to San Antonio?
On a day trip to San Antonio, you can visit several historical sites including The Alamo, the oldest church in Texas – San Fernando Cathedral, and the Spanish Governor’s Palace. You can also enjoy a stroll along the famous Riverwalk and visit the San Antonio Museum of Art.
Reviews:
John Anderson
As someone who recently moved to Houston, I have been eager to explore the surrounding areas and experience all that Texas has to offer. This article has been an invaluable resource in planning my day trips. I was particularly excited to learn about the charming town of Brenham and its famous Blue Bell Creamery. The idea of indulging in some delicious ice cream while admiring the wildflowers is simply irresistible! I also appreciate that the article includes a mix of natural and man-made attractions. The San Jacinto Battlegrounds and Battleship Texas sound like fascinating historical sites, while the Clear Lake and Lake Conroe offer a chance to enjoy some fun in the sun. Going forward, I will definitely be keeping this article bookmarked for future reference. Thank you for providing such a comprehensive guide to the best day trips from Houston!
Robert Johnson
As a Houstonian, I appreciate this article for providing new ideas for quick getaways from the city. I’ve been wanting to visit Galveston Island for a while, and this article has convinced me to finally make the trip.
David Smith
Living in Houston can feel suffocating at times, but this article has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me. I never would’ve thought to visit the Brazos Bend State Park or the Space Center Houston, but they both sound like incredible day trips. I appreciate the detailed descriptions of each destination and the tips for what to do and see while there. Thank you for sharing this valuable information!