With its central location in the middle of Texas, Dallas is an ideal place to start a road trip. The city offers easy access to many exciting destinations throughout the Lone Star State, including some of the most popular cities in Texas like Austin and San Antonio.
Around a 3.5-hour drive from Dallas, Austin is the perfect place to explore the unique culture of Texas.
From live music venues and food trucks to museums and art galleries, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city – for the best results, make sure you give yourself a weekend to explore all that Austin has to offer and make the most of the secrets of the city.
While away the hours in the city’s many parks or take a stroll along the banks of Lady Bird Lake, take a hike up to the lookout point at Mount Bonnell or enjoy a bite at the Franklin Barbecue – there really is something for everyone to enjoy.
San Antonio has a rich and varied history, and the city is home to some of the most iconic attractions in Texas, including the Alamo, the San Antonio RiverWalk, and the Tower of Americas.
Take a stroll along the River Walk, explore the historic missions or take a boat tour around the city – there really is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.
Big Bend National Park is one of Texas’s most iconic natural wonders and is an 8-hour drive from Dallas Due to the dizzying distance, we recommend that you take a week minimum to complete this trip – this will give you plenty of time to travel safely, and really soak up all that the area has to offer.
The park is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Texas, with its towering mountains, deep canyons, and lush desert vegetation.
Take a hike along one of the many trails or take a scenic drive through the park – there are plenty of opportunities to explore and discover the beauty of this incredible national park.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a stunning natural wonder located just over 4 hours from Dallas.
This park is home to some of the most spectacular views in Texas, with its towering cliffs and deep canyons, second only to the expansive canyon system of Arizona, home to the Grand Canyon.
Take a hike along one of the many trails or take a scenic drive through the park – there are plenty of opportunities to explore and discover the beauty of this incredible state park and to catch a glimpse of the wide variety of wildlife that call this area their home.
For the full experience, why not camp out and take in the stars of the night sky?
Oklahoma City is just over a 3-hour drive from Dallas and is the perfect place to explore the culture of Oklahoma without having to travel too far.
From its vibrant art scene to its bustling nightlife, there is something for everyone in this city – take a stroll along the banks of the Oklahoma River or explore the many museums and galleries that call this city home – the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is a must-see, as is the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum to really get to the heart of this wonderful region.
Take a tour of the state capitol building or visit one of the many parks and gardens – there is plenty to explore in Oklahoma City.
Marfa is a small town located in the desert of West Texas, and is around a 7-hour drive from Dallas – and the route is perfect for exploring a host of smaller towns and settlements along the way to break up the journey.
This quirky town has become an art hub in recent years, with its many galleries and installations.
Take a stroll through the town and explore the many galleries or take a hike up to the Marfa Lights Viewing Platform for some incredible views of the night sky – prepare to be completely overwhelmed by the sheer amount of sky out here, and the incredible views of the night sky that can be seen and enjoyed in every direction.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a stunning natural wonder located just over 8 hours from Dallas. This park is home to some of the most spectacular views in Texas, with its towering mountains and deep canyons.
Take a hike along one of the many trails or take a scenic drive through the park – there are plenty of opportunities to explore and discover the beauty of this incredible national park.
Why not camp out and take in the stars of the night sky, take a dip in one of the many natural pools, or simply take a deep, cleansing breath of air to enjoy getting back to nature, and exploring the wonders of the mountains?
No matter how you choose to relax and unwind, there is plenty to explore and enjoy here, including breathtaking views that will stay with you on your journey home, and far beyond.
Padre Island National Seashore is a stunning natural wonder located just over 6 hours from Dallas. This park is home to some of the most spectacular views in Texas, with its miles of pristine beaches and lush coastal vegetation.
Take a stroll along the beach or take a hike up to one of the many observation points for some incredible views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Why not take a kayak or canoe out to explore the many coves and inlets, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun?
There is plenty to explore here, from its stunning wildlife to its unique marine life – no matter how you choose to spend your time here, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Fort Worth is a vibrant city located just over a half hour from Dallas and is the perfect place to explore the culture of Texas without having to travel too far.
While Fort Worth sits in close geographical proximity to Fort Worth, the culture, vibe, and energy of the two spots could not be more different.
Where Dallas has a reputation for being a bit more modern and cosmopolitan, Fort Worth is known for its laid-back atmosphere and old-school charm – and this makes it a fascinating road trip with plenty to explore.
Take a stroll through the historic Stockyards district, discover the many museums and galleries, or take a ride on the Trinity Railway Express to get an up-close look at the city.
The whole city feels almost as though you are stepping back in time, and it is a great place to explore the culture of Texas without having to travel too far and try something totally different from Dallas life.
Turner Falls is a stunning natural wonder located just over 2 hours from Dallas, across the border in Oklahoma.
This park is home to some of the most spectacular views in the state, including the tallest waterfall at an impressive 77 feet in height.
With its cascading waterfalls and lush vegetation, Turner Falls is the perfect spot to explore and get back to the wonders of nature, without having to travel too far from Dallas itself.
Take a hike along one of the many trails or take a dip in one of the many natural pools – there are plenty of opportunities to explore and discover the beauty of this incredible park.
Something of a hidden gem, Dripping Springs is a small town located just over 3 hours from Dallas, a short stone’s throw from Austin, and is the perfect spot to explore the beauty of Texas Hill Country.
Take a stroll through the charming downtown area, or take a hike up to one of the many observation points for some incredible views of the surrounding countryside.
Make sure you head to Deep Eddy – an Austin-based brand known for its delicious vodka – for a tour and tasting or take a dip in the natural swimming hole at Hamilton Pool.
Now that we have taken a closer look at some of the must-try road trips in and around Dallas, it is time to consider some of the elements that will help you to enjoy a successful road trip. The main factors to consider include:
Your Budget
Before you start planning your road trip, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Consider all of the costs associated with your trip, such as gas, lodging, food, and entertainment.
Your budget will play a key role in determining the length of your trip and the destinations you will be able to visit.
Your Time Frame
Once you have established a budget, it’s time to consider how much time you have available for your road trip.
This will help you determine which destinations are feasible and which ones may be too far away or require more time than you have available.
Your Route
Once you have determined your budget and time frame, it’s time to plan your route. Consider the destinations you want to visit and the best way to get there.
You may also want to consider taking a few detours along the way for some unexpected surprises.
Your Accommodations
You will also need to decide where you will stay during your road trip. Consider whether you would prefer hotels, motels, or camping.
Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so make sure to do your research before making a decision.
Your Vehicle
Finally, you will need to consider the type of vehicle you will use for your road trip. Consider the size of the vehicle, fuel efficiency, and comfort level.
You may also want to consider renting a vehicle if you don’t have one of your own.
Research Your Destination
Once you have planned your route and chosen your vehicle, it’s time to start researching your destination.
Make sure to read up on the attractions, restaurants, and activities available in each location. This will help you make the most of your road trip and ensure that you don’t miss out on any must-see sights or experiences.
Pack the Essentials
Before you hit the road, make sure to pack all of the essentials. This includes items such as a first aid kit, snacks, water, and any other items you may need during your trip.
You should also make sure to bring along any necessary documents such as your driver’s license and insurance information.
Stay Safe
Finally, it is important to stay safe while on your road trip. Make sure to follow all traffic laws and be aware of your surroundings at all times. It is also a good idea to let someone know where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
Final Thoughts
Road trips are a great way to explore the world and create lasting memories. With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your road trip is a success.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your epic road trip from Dallas today!
Hi, my name is Alex Kallen and I love to travel. Ever since I could afford the ticket, I hopped on a plane and never looked back. I’ve made a living writing travel guides and blogging my experience all over the world.
I want to encourage and inspire others to travel around the US like I am. There’s no need to go on vacation overseas when there is an amazing land of opportunity right on your doorstep. Enjoy my website, I hope to see you out here one day.
