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Day Trips & Weekend Getaways

Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Denton, TX

Denton sits north of Fort Worth with access to the Denton County Historical Park, the University of North Texas, and the Clear Creek Natural Heritage Area.

The UNT College of Music and the Clear Creek offer culture and nature.

Popular Interests

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Try: birdwatching, disc golf, covered bridges, antique shopping, hot springs, photography spots

12 destinations near Denton

FunFront, Campbell, TX 75422

FunFront

Campbell, TX 75422

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (5.0 stars) · 1 hr 32 min from Denton · fits $15 - $50 budget

1 hr 32 min5.0 (21)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

Travertine Nature Center, Sulphur, OK 73086

Travertine Nature Center

Sulphur, OK 73086

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 47 min from Denton · fits Free - $20 budget

1 hr 47 min4.8 (383)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.

Tucker Tower, Ardmore, OK 73401

Tucker Tower

Ardmore, OK 73401

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 7 min from Denton · fits $15 - $50 budget

1 hr 7 min4.8 (493)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Sulphur, OK 73086

Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Sulphur, OK 73086

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 3.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 40 min from Denton · fits Free - $20 budget

1 hr 40 min4.8 (3,853)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.

Tucker Tower Nature Center, Ardmore, OK 73401

Tucker Tower Nature Center

Ardmore, OK 73401

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 7 min from Denton · fits Free - $20 budget

1 hr 7 min4.8 (243)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.

The Harbor Rockwall Great Wishing Fountain, Rockwall, TX 75032

The Harbor Rockwall Great Wishing Fountain

Rockwall, TX 75032

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.8 stars) · 56 min from Denton · fits $15 - $50 budget

56 min4.8 (33)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dallas, TX 75218

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Dallas, TX 75218

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 26.8k+ visitors) · 54 min from Denton · fits $15 - $50 budget

54 min4.7 (26,808)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

Little Niagara Falls, OK 73086, USA

Little Niagara Falls

OK 73086, USA

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 46 min from Denton · fits Free - $20 budget

1 hr 46 min4.7 (1,029)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.

Lighthouse, Oklahoma City, OK 73120

Lighthouse

Oklahoma City, OK 73120

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.1k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 40 min from Denton · fits $15 - $50 budget

2 hrs 40 min4.7 (1,136)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

Turner Falls Overlook, Davis, OK 73030

Turner Falls Overlook

Davis, OK 73030

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 23 min from Denton · fits Free - $20 budget

1 hr 23 min4.6 (637)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.

Kiwanis Falls, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482

Kiwanis Falls

Sulphur Springs, TX 75482

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.6 stars) · 1 hr 47 min from Denton · fits $15 - $50 budget

1 hr 47 min4.6 (40)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

Lake Murray State Park, Ardmore, OK 73401

Lake Murray State Park

Ardmore, OK 73401

Why this destination?

Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 2.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 3 min from Denton · fits Free - $20 budget

1 hr 3 min4.6 (2,681)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best day trips from Denton, TX?

The best day trips from Denton include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.

How far should I drive for a day trip from Denton?

Most great day trips from Denton are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.

What are cheap things to do near Denton?

Many of the best day trips near Denton are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.

What is the best time of year for day trips from Denton?

Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Denton, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.

Are there weekend getaways near Denton?

Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Denton make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.

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