The Best Day Trips from Austin: Driftwood and Beyond

The Best Day Trips from Austin: Driftwood and Beyond

Looking for a quick escape from the city without going far? Central Texas is full of laid-back towns, outdoor adventures, and local flavors — all within a short drive of Austin. Whether you’re after BBQ, wine, swimming holes, or small-town charm, here are five unforgettable day trips from Austin.

🌳 Driftwood, TX – Hill Country Simplicity

Only 35 minutes from downtown Austin, Driftwood is all about relaxed vibes, rustic scenery, and world-famous food and drink.

What to Do:

  • 🍖 Grab lunch at the legendary Salt Lick BBQ

  • 🍷 Sip wine at Duchman Family Winery or Driftwood Estate

  • 🍺 Chill at Vista Brewing for live music and cold beer

  • 🌲 Take a quiet walk at Charro Ranch Park

🧢 What to Pack:
Lightweight, breathable shirts and a good hat. Our Driftwood Collection was made for days like this.

🌊 Wimberley, TX – Nature & Nostalgia

A cozy Hill Country town filled with art, water, and small-town soul — about 50 minutes from Austin.

What to Do:

  • 💦 Swim in Blue Hole Regional Park or see the famous Jacob’s Well

  • 🛍️ Browse art galleries and local boutiques

  • ☕ Grab a coffee and people-watch in the Wimberley Square

🧢 Style Tip:
Go relaxed and functional — think soft cotton and casual denim.

🍻 Dripping Springs, TX – Breweries & Beyond

Just 30 minutes from Austin, Dripping Springs is the “Gateway to the Hill Country” and ideal for groups.

What to Do:

  • 🍺 Visit breweries like Twisted X and Beerburg

  • 🥃 Stop by Deep Eddy Vodka or Desert Door Distillery

  • 🌊 Book ahead for a swim at Hamilton Pool Preserve

👕 Pro Tip:
Pack layers — shaded patios and canyon breezes can cool down quick.

🥨 Fredericksburg, TX – Wine & German Flavor

A bit farther out (90 minutes) but worth the drive. Fredericksburg offers Texas wine country with a Bavarian twist.

What to Do:

  • 🍑 Pick peaches (in summer)

  • 🍷 Hop through vineyards on Wine Road 290

  • 🥨 Try schnitzel and beer downtown

  • 🥾 Hike Enchanted Rock for sunrise views

📷 Bring a camera — this place is Instagram gold.

🌄 Johnson City / Pedernales Falls – Peace & Parks

About an hour west, this is a perfect outdoor escape when you want fewer crowds and more wide-open spaces.

What to Do:

  • 🚶♂️ Hike and picnic at Pedernales Falls State Park

  • 🧀 Visit the Science Mill or local goat farms

  • 🍷 Enjoy laid-back tastings at smaller Hill Country wineries

🎒 Don’t Forget:
Good walking shoes, sun protection, and a cooler for farm finds.

🗺️ Ready to Hit the Road?

You don’t have to go far to feel far away. These quick trips from Austin are packed with good food, good views, and the perfect pace.

👕 Before you go, outfit yourself in gear that fits the road — our Driftwood-inspired styles are designed to move with you.

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