Day Trips from Austin
← All Austin day tripsDay Trips from Austin Within 3 Hours
The best day trips from Austin within a 3 hours drive. Discover destinations, attractions, and activities — all with real drive times, ratings, and photos.
12 destinations within 3 hours of Austin
Cave Without A Name
Boerne, TX 78006
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.9 by 1.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 48 min from Austin
Japanese Tea Garden
San Antonio, TX 78212
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 17.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 19 min from Austin
Longhorn Cavern State Park
Burnet, TX 78611
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 5.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 15 min from Austin
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
TX, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 9.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 24 min from Austin
Natural Bridge Caverns
San Antonio, TX 78266
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 17.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 9 min from Austin
Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center
Round Mountain, TX 78663
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 48 min from Austin
Dinosaur Valley State Park
TX 76043, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 4.7k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 42 min from Austin
Waco Mammoth National Monument
Waco, TX 76708
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.7 by 4.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 44 min from Austin
Carleen Bright Arboretum
Woodway, TX 76712
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 36 min from Austin
Fort Worth Water Gardens
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 14.6k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 48 min from Austin
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
Glen Rose, TX 76043
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 4.7k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 36 min from Austin
Silos at Magnolia
Waco, TX 76706
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.6 by 2.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 35 min from Austin
Where to stay:
Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips from Austin
What are the best day trips from Austin within 3 hours?
The best day trips from Austin within 3 hours include state parks, historic towns, wineries, scenic drives, and outdoor recreation. Use the destination cards above to see top-rated options with real drive times and ratings from Google.
What cities and attractions are within 3 hours drive of Austin?
There are many cities, towns, and attractions within 3 hours of Austin, TX. Our page shows the best destinations you can reach in that time, including attractions, parks, and activities -- not just a list of city names.
What are cheap or free things to do near Austin?
Many of the best day trips from Austin are free or low-cost, including state parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets. Check the destination cards above for budget estimates and options.
Is 3 hours enough time for a good day trip from Austin?
Yes! A 3 hours drive opens up plenty of great day trip destinations from Austin. Many popular spots -- state parks, historic towns, and scenic areas -- are within this range, giving you a full day of exploration without needing an overnight stay.
Explore Other Drive Times from Austin
Want personalized results?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We will find the perfect trip for you.
Try our trip finder →