Day Trips from Waco
← All Waco day tripsDay Trips from Waco: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Waco, 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 Waco
Scenic overlook
TX 76227, USA
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Waco, 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
805 N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin
Just 1 hr 42 min from Waco, 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.
Copper Mountain Overlook
Arlington, TX 76005
Just 1 hr 40 min from Waco, 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.
Love's Lookout Texas
Jacksonville, TX 75766
Just 2 hrs 16 min from Waco, rated 4.8 stars by 876 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.
Mount Bonnell
Austin, TX 78731
Just 1 hr 34 min from Waco, rated 4.8 stars by 1,510 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Lou Neff Point
Austin, TX 78746
Just 1 hr 37 min from Waco, rated 4.8 stars by 486 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.
Pennybacker Bridge Overlook
Austin, TX 78730
Just 1 hr 34 min from Waco, 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.
Overlook, Hurst Creek
Lakeway, TX 78734
Just 1 hr 50 min from Waco, 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 1 hr 53 min from Waco, 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.
Lookout Point
Austin, TX 78731
Just 1 hr 33 min from Waco, 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.
Lookout Mountain
Kingsland, TX 78639
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Waco, 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.
North Capital of Texas Highway Scenic Overlook
Austin, TX 78746
Just 1 hr 39 min from Waco, rated 4.6 stars by 150 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Waco
What are the best scenic drives near Waco, TX?
The best scenic drives near Waco 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 Waco?
Most scenic drives near Waco 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 Waco?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Waco, 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 Waco?
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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