On occasions of extended weekends or holidays, our advantageous location allows us to readily explore a variety of getaways around Houston. Make sure to include these crucial day outings from Bayou City in your agenda for your next urban escape.
1. Conroe
Distance from Houston: 40 minutes
Conroe, TX offers an incredibly diverse range of activities, from well-preserved state parks and a sprawling 22,000-acre lake to captivating cultural attractions such as its historic downtown buildings that trace back to the early 1900s.
2. Brazos Bend
Distance from Houston: 48 minutes
Situated just 45 miles away from Downtown Houston, Brazos Bend State Park is a hidden treasure of nature. Encompassing almost 5,000 acres, this scenic park stretches alongside the Brazos River, offering 37 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, with certain paths accommodating wheelchairs as well. While in the area, you can do an exploration of the stargazing kind at the George Observatory.
3. Bellville
Distance from Houston: 1 hours and 3 minutes
Just a brief journey away from Houston, in the quaint town of Bellville, Texas, you’ll discover a medieval castle featuring a 3,000-pound drawbridge, a surrounding moat, and even accommodations fit for knights. This fortress, situated amidst the picturesque landscapes of Bellville, boasts five corner turrets, a chapel, a portcullis, and a courtyard – all meticulously constructed by Newman, brick by brick.
4. Beaumont
Distance from Houston: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Located in the middle of the Texas Gulf Coast, Beaumont was once a booming oil town. Today, there is plenty to enjoy indoors and outdoors in the city. From reading up on its oil history at Spindletop/Gladys City Boomtown Museum to wading in Gator Country, to kayaking the Neches River, to cruising all the breweries, antique shops, and restaurants in the downtown area, the Texas town is right for a day trip.
5. Huntsville
Distance from Houston: 1 hour and 22 minutes
Nestled within the Pineywoods of East Texas, just an hour’s drive north of Downtown, lies Hunstville State Park. This picturesque woodland area boasts a network of 21 miles of trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and bird-watching. The park also features the serene 21-acre Lake Raven, offering a designated swimming area open from 10 am to 8 pm. Additionally, visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and camping opportunities in this charming natural haven.
The region also hosts the Blue Lagoon, which can be found at 649 Pinedale Road. This pristine swimming spot is situated in a scenic natural environment, creating a picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy.
6. Port Arthur
Distance from Houston: 1 hours and 25 minutes
Located on the southeastern coast of Texas near the Louisiana border, Port Arthur is a maritime town with robust railroad links, surrounded by neighboring towns such as Nederland, Groves, and Port Neches.
Dubbed as the “Cajun capital of Texas,” Port Arthur offers a captivating blend of cultural influences. It features captivating attractions like the Buu Mon Buddhist Temple, the Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, and the Queen of Peace Shrine and Gardens, making it a destination with a diverse range of compelling sites to explore.
7. Galveston
Distance from Houston: 1 hours and 30 minutes
Whether getting your thrills on all the rides at Kemah Boardwalk, partaking in the midway games at Pleasure Pier, just taking in the scenery, or using the trolley to admire the splendid Victorian residences, discovering the recently revitalized state park, or indulging in the delectable offerings of the town’s exceptional eateries, Galveston provides all the elements for a enjoyable evening, weekend, or holiday staycation.
This Gulf Coast destination offers unparalleled waterfront amusement and entertainment, setting it apart from other coastal areas. Galveston Island’s Historic Pleasure Pier features a range of family-friendly attractions including rides, games, and shows.
Visitors also have the opportunity to check out the nearby Crystal Beach/Bolivar Peninsula. At Camp Margaritaville RV Resort Crystal Beach, patrons can spend the day resort-style pool, clubhouse, swim-up bars, and private cabanas for ultimate relaxation. Other amenities include the Fins Bar & Grill, an arcade, golf cart rentals, and private poolside cabana reservations, among others.
8. San Marcos
Distance from Houston: 3 hours
San Marcos, located half-an-hour or so south of Austin, is home to an abundance of natural beauty. Surrounding green spaces, wooded areas, and swimming holes, make the town an oasis for outdoors types.
If you’ve already cruised the Buffalo Bayou on local boat tours, or more curious to see what’s going on elsewhere in clearer waters. The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment offer a series of Glass-Bottom Boat Tours on Spring Lake, an emerald lake sparkling with aquatic life.
One of the most unique aquatic experiences in Texas is located in the town of San Marcos. Here, you can cruise down a glow-in-the-dark river on paddle boards and translucent kayaks for the ultimate night-time float!
9. Hamilton Pool
Distance from Houston: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Numerous millennia ago, Hamilton Pool took shape following the cave-in of an underground river, leading to the creation of a submerged cavern beneath a flowing waterfall. Swimming is presently allowed, though guests are advised to check conditions beforehand. Visitors can also explore the neighboring trails and relax on the stunning beach of this awe-inspiring oasis. Keep in mind that advance reservations are obligatory prior to entering, ensuring you secure your spot before embarking on a journey to this remarkable Texan treasure!
10. Westcave Preserve
Distance from Houston: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Situated in Southwest Travis County, the West Cave Outdoor Discovery spans 76 acres and serves as a haven of nature. In addition to its geological formations, elevated terrains, and vibrant avian population, the preserve boasts a captivating grotto and a 40-foot waterfall.
To bask in the splendor of this wondrous natural enclave, individuals are required to secure a reservation via the preserve’s official website. The guided tour offers one of the most exceptional hiking experiences in Texas. During the journey, participants descend through a limestone crevice via a staircase, entering a sheltered canyon that leads to the head of the canyon. This lush expanse is adorned by a waterfall cascading onto limestone deposits, ultimately flowing into the grotto pool.