How Many Days Does It Take to Road Trip in Texas?

By Alice Nichols

Texas is a state that boasts of a diverse cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and numerous tourist attractions. If you are planning to explore Texas by road, you may be wondering how long it will take to cover the state’s vast expanse.

In this article, we will answer the question “How Many Days Does It Take to Road Trip in Texas?” Let’s dive in!

Factors to Consider

The number of days you need for a Texas road trip depends on several factors. The first factor is your starting point and your final destination.

Texas is the second-largest state in the United States, covering an area of over 268,000 square miles. Therefore, if you plan to drive from one corner of the state to another, it may take several days.

Another factor that determines how long your Texas road trip will take is the places you want to visit. From vibrant cities like Austin and Houston to natural wonders like Big Bend National Park and Palo Duro Canyon State Park, there are plenty of attractions in Texas that you can explore.

Recommended Itineraries

If you’re planning a road trip in Texas but don’t have enough time to cover the entire state, here are some recommended itineraries:

Weekend Getaway

If you only have a weekend for your Texas road trip, consider driving from Dallas to Austin or San Antonio. These cities are about three hours apart by car and offer plenty of attractions and activities for visitors.

  • In Dallas, visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza or explore the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
  • In Austin, check out the live music scene on Sixth Street or go for a swim at Barton Springs Pool.
  • In San Antonio, visit the historic Alamo or stroll along the River Walk.

One-Week Trip

If you have one week for your Texas road trip, consider driving from Houston to Big Bend National Park.

  • In Houston, visit the Space Center Houston or explore the Museum of Fine Arts.
  • Drive to San Antonio and visit the Alamo and River Walk.
  • Continue on to Big Bend National Park, where you can go hiking, stargazing, and explore the natural wonders of the Chihuahuan Desert.

Two-Week Trip

If you have two weeks for your Texas road trip, you can cover more ground. Consider driving from Dallas to El Paso.

  • Drive to Austin and check out the live music scene on Sixth Street or go for a swim at Barton Springs Pool.
  • Continue on to San Antonio and visit the Alamo and River Walk.
  • Drive west to Big Bend National Park, where you can go hiking, stargazing, and explore the natural wonders of the Chihuahuan Desert.
  • Head north to Marfa, a quirky town known for its art galleries and mysterious Marfa Lights.
  • Finally, drive to El Paso and enjoy stunning views of the Franklin Mountains from Scenic Drive.
  • Tips for Your Texas Road Trip

    No matter how long your Texas road trip is, here are some tips that will help you make the most of it:

    • Pack plenty of water and snacks since some parts of Texas are remote with few options for food or drink.
    • Wear comfortable shoes since there will be plenty of walking involved in exploring cities like Austin and San Antonio.
    • Be prepared for the weather since Texas can get extremely hot in the summer and chilly in the winter.
    • Make hotel reservations in advance, especially during peak travel season.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the number of days you need for a Texas road trip depends on several factors, including your starting point, your final destination and the places you want to visit. Whether you have a weekend or two weeks, there are plenty of attractions in Texas that you can explore.

    Just make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks, wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the weather. Happy travels!