Day Trips from Austin
← All Austin day tripsDay Trips from Austin: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Austin, TX. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Austin
River Overlook
TX 78663, USA
Just 1 hr 8 min from Austin, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook
San Antonio, TX 78023
Just 1 hr 46 min from Austin, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic Overlook on Pumphouse Trail
Blanco, TX 78606
Just 1 hr 6 min from Austin, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook Parking
Bastrop, TX 78602
Just 47 min from Austin, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Overlook, Hurst Creek
Lakeway, TX 78734
Just 38 min from Austin, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sunset Deck
TX 78654, USA
Just 53 min from Austin, rated 4.7 stars by 391 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Pennybacker Bridge Overlook
Austin, TX 78730
Just 21 min from Austin, rated 4.7 stars by 1,918 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Lookout Mountain
Kingsland, TX 78639
Just 1 hr 17 min from Austin, rated 4.6 stars by 200 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Canyon Lake Observation Area
Canyon Lake, TX 78133
Just 1 hr 4 min from Austin, rated 4.6 stars by 2,823 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Devil's Backbone
Canyon Lake, TX 78133
Just 54 min from Austin, rated 4.4 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Big View Sunset Lookout
Austin, TX 78730
Just 30 min from Austin, rated 4.3 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic overlook
Austin, TX 78759
Just 22 min from Austin, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Austin
What are the best scenic drives near Austin, TX?
The best scenic drives near Austin include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Austin?
Most scenic drives near Austin range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Austin?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Austin, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Austin?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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