Fun Weekend Trips to Make in the Fall in Texas

fun-fall-weekend-trips-texas

Fall is in full swing, and with the weather finally cooling off after a brutally hot summer– it’s about time! The fall weather makes this season the perfect season for exploring our great state of Texas and going on an adventure! Texas has a whole lot of exciting things to offer, and if you’ve been telling yourself that you need to travel more, now is your chance.

Even if you can’t swing a full-fledged vacation, there is no reason you can’t make a day (or two) trip to a great destination–without even having to leave the state. There is so much to do and explore right here in the great state of Texas, so why not choose a destination, grab your family or friends, and head out to one of these fun weekend trips to make in the fall in Texas?

Family Friendly Destinations

If you have children in tow or are looking for fun activities to entertain the entire family on your weekend trip, these destinations are for you! Check out these fun day trip ideas and be sure to bring along a camera to capture the excitement!

Dinosaur Valley State Park: That’s right, dinosaurs! Did you know that millions of years ago, hundreds of species of dinosaurs roamed Texas? At Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, you can see real dinosaur footprints and explore where dinosaurs used to live, and maybe stumble upon a fossil or two. Entrance fees are $7 per adult, and free for children 12 and under.
Distance from Dallas: About an hour and a half

Go Hunting for Topaz: Mason County, Texas is the only place in the state where folks can hunt for natural Topaz. You can find plenty of ranches all around the county that can help you and your kids hunt for the state gem of Texas for a day of excitement your kids won’t soon forget

Distance from Dallas: About 4 and a half hours!
Corpus Christi: What could be better than packing up the family for a fall trip to South Texas? With summer over, the beaches will be much less crowded, and you will be able to truly enjoy some of the best beaches in the state. If you prefer your marine life indoors, take a trip to the Texas State Aquarium where the kids can get up close and personal with marine animals, and take a tour of the USS Lexington Battle Ship Museum!
Distance from Dallas: About 6 and a half hours!
Visit Paris: Well, Paris, Texas at least. This family-friendly destination is a fun getaway for explorers of all ages and includes a replica of the famous Eiffel Tower, a gorgeous and educational historic district, art galleries of all kinds, great educational museums and wonderful shopping selections in Town Square.
Distance from Dallas: About an hour and forty five minutes
Route 66: The original Texas road trip, the famous Route 66 snakes through 178 miles of the Texas Panhandle. Taking this route will take you and your family on an adventure through history. The stretch of road winds its way through historic relics, ghost towns and quirky roadside attractions like the famous Cadillac Ranch. I-40 runs parallel to much of the old Route 66 today, so even if you can’t make a full day out of it, you can still pop over for an hour or two and see a few of the sights.

Galveston: Take a trip to the famous coastal town of Galveston, Texas for a weekend full of historical adventure. This gorgeous town has tons of history dating back to the 1800s and features great shopping and restaurants, historical building and museum tours, a historic district, a water park, fishing piers, theatres and much more. Galveston is a town full of adventure, so if you decide to visit, you may need to plan an entire weekend to take it all in!

Distance from Dallas: About four and a half hours

Outdoor Adventures

Are you hoping to enjoy some of that fresh autumn air this season? Check out these weekend trip destinations for some outdoor fun for your entire group to enjoy. Be sure to bring along some snacks and water, too!

Cascade Caverns: The famous Cascade Caverns are as beautiful as they are interesting. Hike around ancient caverns and rock formations and catch some truly breathtaking views.

Distance from Dallas: About 4 hours

The Grand Canyon of Texas: Well, it’s not the real thing, but it is the second largest canyon in the United States. Palo Duro Canyon offers plenty of exciting hiking trails for all skill levels along with Native American history.

Distance from Dallas: About 5 and a half hours

Gorman Falls: If a fall hike to a waterfall sounds like your idea of a good time, make a day trip out to Gorman Falls! This beautiful waterfall is located at the Colorado Bend State Park and offers beautiful scenery, great hiking trails, and the best fresh air nature has to offer.

Distance from Dallas: About 3 hours
Enchanted Rock: The famous Enchanted Rock State Natural Area has everything an outdoor adventurer wishes for–adventure, beautiful scenery, and lore! This pink granite dome has gorgeous views during the fall season, and the rock’s nightly noises have inspired Native American legends for centuries. Take a trip to Enchanted Rock to see this state landmark and enjoy the state natural area for a weekend.
Distance from Dallas/Fort Worth: About 4 hours

Romantic Getaways

Are you hoping to make your weekend adventure a getaway for two? The state of Texas offers many destinations that are perfect for romantic weekend getaways to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy time together.

New Braunfels: Located only about 50 miles from Austin, New Braunfels is a fantastic destination for couples to escape to. Take a relaxing tube ride down the Comal River and enjoy the cool water for an afternoon. Then, head over to Dry Comal Creek Vineyards and Winery for a wine tasting and even a tour! If you are looking for a little adventure, New Braunfels is also the home of New Braunfels Schlitterbahn, a mega-waterpark!.

Distance from Dallas/Fort Worth: About 3 and a half hours

Wimberly: If you and your loved one are big art fans, a trip to Wimberly is the ticket! Located only 45 minutes from Austin, Wimberly is an art lover’s paradise, with artists of all mediums and styles featuring their artwork from paintings to pottery to glasswork and everything in between. Don’t miss Market Days, featuring food, music and art at one of the state’s oldest outdoor art markets.

Distance from Dallas/Fort Worth: About 3 and a half hours

Whatever adventures you choose to enjoy in Texas, be sure to make it memorable. You don’t have to spend your time cooped up at home–get out there and make this season your most adventurous yet.

What are some of your own favorite weekend trips to make in Texas?