Austin’s a great city surrounded by other great cities and small towns. Check out these 3 Best Day Trips to take, about only 45 minutes away from Austin, Texas, this 2022.
- Dripping Springs
Start your day with a swim at the beautiful Hamilton Pool Preserve. Hiking trails, picnic tables, and portable toilets are located on the park. Please note, you must make a reservation in advance. Check their website for fees and to reserve a time slot.
In the mood for a drink? Stop by Deep Eddy’s Vodka Distillery. This gluten free vodka is distilled from corn and comes in a variety of flavors. There’s bound to be one perfect for you.
- Wimberly
Grab the kids and visit The Shady Llama. Drinks including sodas, iced tea, beer, and wine are available at the bar. Food is available at one of the food trucks on site. Visit the 6 llamas and 2 miniature donkeys. If you get there early and ask at the bar, they’ll give you some food to feed the furry and cute little guys. Some may be up and about and others maybe napping. Definitely check out their website to see pics and learn about each shady llama. There are picnic tables and a play area for kids. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the day. We got to see one llama and two donkeys on our visit there. I was able to order chicken drums from the BBQ food truck which was delicious.
Next, visit this fun and unique wild west town – Pioneer Town. It includes Jack Glover’s Cowboy Museum, an opera house, a house made of bottles, ice cream parlor; and ride or take a picture on the big jackalope. This is a fun a unique place. If you plan to stay the weekend, you can rent a cabin right next door and swim in the river just yards away. I want to warn you, there was a bit of a tricky road on the way. For a very short distance along the river, the road narrows and only one car can pass, so stay alert 🙂
- Fredericksburg
Explore this town’s German heritage, famed wineries, delicious food, and shopping. Stay at one of the town’s quaint B&Bs. If you’re a history buff, check out the National Museum of the Pacific War or visit the Pioneer Museum to learn more about the town’s German settlement history. Fredericksburg has great wineries and B&Bs. Take a walk down Main Street to grab some food and visit one of the many quaint shops you won’t see anywhere else. The burgers at Burger Burger on Main St. are great and have gluten free buns. Need to walk off your lunch? Head over to Enchanted Rock to walk the trails, rock climb, or try geocache (treasure hunting) during the day. Come at night for the stargazing.
Anyone of these options for a day trip is great! Each is unique and fun. If you go during the summer months, it is very hot. You’ll enjoy these outdoorsy trips better during fall and spring. Have your camera ready. You’ll definitely want to take pics!