11 Best Texas Towns For A Weekend Trip

Between world-famous barbecue, breathtaking landscapes, and an endless array of entertainment, Texas is the ideal place for a weekend escape. Whether you are a foodie, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, the Lone Star State's small towns present just as much charm and excitement as its big cities—if not more. There are a plethora of hidden gems brimming with art, culture, and adventure that make for an unforgettable getaway. From historic streets and quirky museums to scenic trails and refreshing natural springs, these towns are packed with one-of-a-kind experiences. If you are craving delicious eats, rich history, or a taste of small-town hospitality, the perfect Texas weekend trip awaits.

Granbury

Experience natural beauty and Texan history by spending the weekend in Granbury. Granbury Historic Square is the heart of the town, providing boutique shopping, cozy cafés, and a glimpse into Texas' past with its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. For a deeper dive into history, visit the Hood County Jail Museum, a former frontier jail that now tells the stories of outlaws and lawmen who once walked its halls.

Balance a day of history with an evening by Lake Granbury, a scenic retreat ideal for boating, fishing, or simply unwinding by the water. At sunset, catch a live performance at the Granbury Opera House, a beautifully restored theater dating back to the 1880s. Book a room at The Inn on Lake Granbury, a luxurious waterfront bed-and-breakfast featuring elegant rooms, private balconies, and a peaceful lakeside setting.

Marfa

Spending the weekend in Marfa will transport you into a world where art, mystery, and West Texas allure collide. Art lovers should visit The Chinati Foundation, which features large-scale minimalist installations against the backdrop of Marfa’s vast desert landscape. Founded by artist Donald Judd, this museum redefines the relationship between art, space, and nature. For a dose of mystery, head to the Marfa Lights Viewing Area at dusk. These unexplained glowing orbs have fascinated visitors for decades, appearing in the distance with no scientific explanation, adding an element of the supernatural to this getaway.

During the day, discover Prada Marfa, a surreal roadside art installation resembling a high-end boutique in the middle of the desert. Then, wind down at the Hotel Paisano, a historic hotel that once housed Hollywood stars during the filming of Giant.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg mixes German culture with Texas style, making a rare getaway weekend for history fans. This small town loves to share its German past and has multiple museums to choose from. Start at the Vereins Kirche Museum, a museum showcasing and preserving the town's heritage. Pioneer Museum also shares insight into the town's German ancestry, including homesteads and artifacts depicting 19th-century life.

For the best restaurant and shop options, stay right on Main Street at The Trueheart Hotel. To listen to live music and taste local fare, visit Fredericksburg Trade Days market at Sunday Farms.

Dripping Springs

There are under 9,000 residents in this small town, making Dripping Springs a cozy place to spend the weekend as a local. Venture through the town's geological wonders by swimming in the basin of a 50-foot waterfall at Hamilton Pool Preserve. This natural pool is an excellent place to swim in crystal clear water surrounded by moss-covered limestone and Cypress trees. For more colorful limestone, take a tour of the limestone canyon, which leads to a stunning grotto and cave at Westcave Preserve Discovery Center.

For a taste of local brew, check out Twisted X Brewing Company. In the Twisted X tasting room, you can try small-batch craft lagers, IPAs, pilsners, and more. To combine the natural beauty of Hill Country with modern amenities, stay at Camp Lucy for the weekend. At this resort, take a long walk on their gorgeous property and treat yourself to an evening at their spa.

Wimberley

Wimberly is another small town with breathtaking views that make for a great weekend of adventure. Start at Jacob's Well Spring, where 81 acres of wooded trails wrap around crystal-clear ponds. To discover Wimberly by car, drive the scenic Devil's Backbone route. The leisurely loop drive boasts stunning views of the 400-mile-long Balcones Fault over rolling hills and winding roads. Head back into town and stretch by walking through Wimberly Square.

Comfortable accommodation is just a ten-minute walk away from this lively street at Creekhaven Inn & Spa. For a peaceful sleep, a spa treatment, and tranquil grounds to wake up to, this is the ultimate refreshing option. This enchanting Inn is nestled against Cypress Creek, meaning you won’t have to walk far to find some of the natural beauty Wimberly has to present.

Galveston

Where the Gulf of America (Gulf of Mexico) meets Galveston's shore, find endless family-friendly entertainment. If you are spending the weekend here and want a lot of options in a small amount of time, head to Moody Gardens. This amusement park has entertainment for all ages, with pools, aquariums, 3D cinemas, and golf courses.

To admire the gulf, walk along Pleasure Pier. Stretching out above the water, the pier holds roller coasters and carnival games. There are plenty of snack stands to choose from between adventures. Sleep locally at what is often referred to as the "Queen Of The Gulf." Otherwise known as The Grand Galvez Resort and Spa, this resort is a historic beachfront hotel with beautiful views of the Gulf.

Port Aransas

Spending the weekend in Port Aransas is a great way to escape into the beauty of the Texas coast. Nestled on Mustang Island, this small beach town blends relaxation and adventure. Start your getaway at Port Aransas Beach, where miles of soft sand and gentle waves make it excellent for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing. An early riser can see the sunrise over the peaceful shoreline, setting a peaceful tone for a weekend retreat. For a dose of nature, visit the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center, a hidden gem where visitors can spot a variety of coastal birds, alligators, and other wildlife while walking along a scenic boardwalk.

For nature and entertainment, go to Roberts Point Park. Locals gather at this waterfront spot to watch dolphins play in the channel and enjoy live music at the pavilion. The park's observation tower offers stunning views of the harbor, making it an idyllic place to soak in the coastal atmosphere.

In the evening, experience the laid-back appeal of Port Aransas at The Tarpon Inn, a historic hotel dating back to 1886. With its breezy porches, antique furnishings, and walls adorned with signed tarpon scales from famous guests, this historic accommodation captures a true taste of Texas's coastal history.

Salado

From historic streets to artisan boutiques, Salado is a mix of small-town charm and artistic spirit, making it a fantastic weekend retreat. History lovers will be drawn to the Stagecoach Inn, one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in Texas that dates back to the 1800s. The inn was once a resting place for weary travelers on the Chisholm Trail and continues to offer a warm, inviting atmosphere today.

For those looking to connect with nature, Salado Creek provides a peaceful escape. The serene paths around the creek are perfect for a morning stroll or an afternoon picnic beneath the towering oak trees. Nearby, Salado Sculpture Garden blends art and the outdoors, featuring rotating sculptures set against a lush Hill Country backdrop. Afterward, a tour of the town for a meal at The Shed or Barrow Brewing Company is a must.

Jefferson

The small town of Jefferson is known for its historic Inns and hotels. For a truly special experience, stay at Excelsior House Hotel, Texas’s oldest accommodation in continuous operation. Across from the hotel, find Jay Gould's Railroad Car, which has a luxurious interior featuring a dining room, lounge, and ballroom.

Ceinemophiles will love the Gone With The Wind Museum, which explores the novel and film of the same name through exhibits and artwork. For another nostalgic experience, go to Jefferson General Store. The shop offers more than a isles of vintage cady. It also has a jukebox, a soda fountain, and more.

Port Isabel

Spending the weekend in Port Isabel means getting beautiful views of the Gulf of America (Gulf of Mexico) and the Laguna Madre. Start your trip by witnessing the heart of the community, the Port Isabel Lighthouse. Built in 1852, the lighthouse once provided guidance to ships passing the Brazos Santiago Pass. Near the lighthouse, shops, restaurants, and boutiques are only a few miles away at Lighthouse Square.

To truly appreciate Port Isabel's community, see Laguna Madre Art Gallery. The gallery features handmade jewelry, art prints, sculptures, and paintings, all made by local artists. You can also attend workshops at Laguna Madre, where you can learn different artistic techniques such as acrylic pour and block printing, among other techniques.

For weekend accommodation, Southwind Inn sits on the Laguna Madre Bay, offering travelers a place to truly enjoy a beachside vacation. This Inn is a good fit for those interested in dolphin watching and fishing off of the nearby pier that stretches over the bay.

Lockhart

With a population of only 15,000 people, Lockhart is a wonderful small town for a weekend getaway, especially for foodies. Known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas, this town has a lot of natural beauty and rare experiences to go along with its delicious barbecue. To see a collection of watches and other timepieces, go to the Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches to learn the history and beauty of timepieces.

Then, see a show in a beautiful vintage venue at the Gaslight Baker Theatre. This historic venue has hosted live performances and entertainment since the 1920s. Taste what made Lockhart famous among foodies at one of Lockhart's notorious barbecues, such as Black's Barbecue or Barbs BQ. For a lot of flavor and even more fun, take a private cooking class at Barbs BQ. The Ellison House, a charming bed and breakfast, is the perfect place to stay.

Whether nestled in the Hill Country or set along the coast, each destination is packed with truly unique experiences that can be fully enjoyed in just a weekend. These destinations, rich in culture and history, offer an effortless way to experience the best of Texas. Unwind in a spring-fed pool, savor world-class cuisine, or enjoy live entertainment. No matter what you choose, each town promises a memorable escape.