Texas road trip – The perfect 7-day travel plan

Howdy, welcome to Texas! As the second biggest state in the U.S. by both size and number of residents, Texas offers endless sights to explore, ideal for an unforgettable road trip adventure.

Numerous Texas road trip routes exist, but this seven-day loop itinerary includes all the major cities—Austin, San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, and Fort Worth—along with a scenic diversion through the beautiful Hill Country.

Before we start the journey, a brief note about driving in Texas. Cars dominate the roads here, so you’ll likely depend on your vehicle both within cities and when traveling between them. While this might seem inconvenient at first, it ensures that highways are well-maintained and straightforward to follow, with plenty of parking available in urban areas. This makes getting around by car surprisingly hassle-free.

Apart from that, everything else is straightforward, so dive right into your journey and have a great time!

Day 1: Explore Austin by visiting local attractions, enjoy a swim at Barton Springs Municipal Pool, and savor traditional Texas BBQ cuisine.

The lively city of Austin marks the beginning of your Texas road trip, serving as the perfect starting and finishing point for your round-travel journey.

In addition to boasting a major international airport with excellent connections to the rest of the United States and London Heathrow, it serves as a vibrant cultural center that immerses you in the lively energy you’ll experience across your Texas journey.

Plan to arrive in the morning and take it easy today—since you’ll return to Austin on day 7, there’s no need to rush or see everything if you’re dealing with jet lag or travel fatigue.

Travel advice:Collect your vehicle immediately upon arrival at the airport—you’ll value the convenience of having it to explore today’s attractions.

Arrive in Austin, check into your accommodation, and make your way to the Texas State Capitol Building.

After unwinding briefly at your hotel, make your way to the iconic Texas State Capitol Building for an initial glimpse of Austin.

This grand structure serves as the Texas state government’s headquarters, showcasing remarkable 19th-century design and standing as an iconic emblem of the Lone Star State.

Perched atop a hill with a view of downtown Austin, its dome rises above the rooftops, creating a striking contrast against the sleek, contemporary skyscrapers nearby.

The building is surrounded by scenic landscapes, adorned with statues and monuments nestled beneath the canopy of lush trees and foliage.

Once you’ve experienced the outdoors, the ideal way to explore the interior is by joining a complimentary tour led by an expert guide. They’ll share insights into Texan history, legislature, and the building’s unique architectural design.

Tours leave every 30 to 45 minutes starting from the south foyer, with each lasting approximately 30 minutes. Operating hours are from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday, 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM on Saturdays, and 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM on Sundays.

Enjoy a relaxed midday meal before exploring the Cathedral of Junk.

The next stop on your Austin adventure is delightfully unconventional and far from the usual tourist spots, ensuring an experience you won’t soon forget.

Enjoy a relaxed midday meal at a café or eatery that catches your eye (keep the barbecue for another time), then make your way to the Cathedral of Junk—a massive artwork constructed solely from, as you might expect, discarded items.

Nestled in a suburban backyard, this eccentric art installation was created by artist Vince Hannemann. Its cathedral-like form consists of intricate webs of bicycles, household items, toys, CDs, and nearly any object imaginable—whatever you can think of, chances are it’s hidden somewhere within the structure.

At first sight, it might appear to be nothing more than a heap of discarded items, but in reality, it’s crafted with remarkable detail and unexpectedly profound. (After all, as the saying goes, “one man’s trash”!)

Step inside and gaze up at the spire-shaped roof to fully experience the cathedral, interpreting its artistic message in your own way. Some believe it encourages reflection on waste and consumerism.

The Cathedral of Junk is located at 4422 Lareina Drive. Since it’s situated in a peaceful residential area, you must schedule an appointment in advance to visit. To set up a time, dial (512) 299-7413.

The experience is available at no cost, though a $10 donation per group is recommended to help maintain and further develop it.

The simplest way to reach the destination (and later head to the pool) is to take your rental car and drive.

Keep in mind that parking on Lareina Drive isn’t permitted, so be sure to check for parking regulations and locate a space on an adjacent side street instead.

You might also consider dining at nearby Casa Maria before your visit—it offers plenty of parking and serves excellent Tex-Mex cuisine!

Spend the remainder of the afternoon heading to Barton Springs Municipal Pool by car.

The Barton Springs Municipal Pool is approximately 20 minutes north of the Cathedral of Junk, making it convenient to arrive with plenty of time for a swim before sunset.

Even during winter travel, don’t hesitate to swim in this three-acre natural pool, which is supplied by underground springs and maintains a warm temperature of 20ºC (68ºF) year-round.

Additionally, Austin’s climate remains fairly temperate year-round, meaning there’s no reason to hold back.

Not only is it a beautiful spot for swimming and sunbathing, but the water also serves as a habitat for the threatened Barton Springs Salamander, making it a significant part of Austin’s natural environment.

For this purpose, the pool is shut down each Thursday between 9am and 7pm for cleaning and maintenance. To ensure you don’t miss the opportunity, it’s best to schedule day 1 of your trip on any other day.

Entry to the pool is priced at $9 for adults. Please be aware that lifeguards are not always present, so exercise caution while swimming and supervise any children accompanying you.

Enjoy the sunset and observe the bats from the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge.

Return to your hotel with ample time to refresh before making your way to the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge by sunset—being late is not an option.

At dusk from March through October, this modest bridge spanning the Colorado River transforms as countless bats emerge from beneath it, their dark forms striking against the vibrant orange hues of the evening sky.

After the bridge was redesigned in 1980, the structure now features numerous ideal crevices for bats, providing spaces where they roost and raise their young.

If you visit in August, you’ll witness the newborn pups making their debut, nearly doubling the swirling mass of bats against the soft-colored sky.

The east side of the bridge offers the finest scenery from its walkway, though laying out a blanket on the riverbank below is another option for those who prefer to sit. Just keep in mind that choosing the riverbank means a higher chance of being struck by bat droppings!

Even if your visit doesn’t coincide with bat season, the bridge remains a great spot to catch the sunset before heading out for dinner.

Enjoy a traditional Texas BBQ meal at Black’s Barbecue

Start your Texas food journey by indulging in classic BBQ dishes—head north from the bridge to Black’s Barbecue and get ready to satisfy your hunger.

This BBQ spot, operated by the third generation of the Black family, continues to smoke all its meat with the original techniques pioneered by their founders.

With just a basic rub, oak wood, and plenty of patience, this restaurant prepares some of the best meat cuts around.

The menu features traditional favorites like brisket, ribs, and turkey, accompanied by sides such as beans, potato salad, and mac and cheese. However, the sides are the sole vegetarian choices available, so it’s best to consider another spot if you’re dining with vegetarians.

Diners who choose to eat here can anticipate leaving completely satisfied, overjoyed, and eager to head straight to bed.

Day 2: Travel from Austin to San Antonio through the Hill Country – journey along scenic routes, with stops to explore Hamilton Pool Preserve, Bandera, and enjoy a horseback riding adventure.

The goal of day 2 is to travel from Austin to San Antonio, with a scenic diversion through the Hill Country to fully appreciate Texas’ breathtaking scenery—it’s not just about the urban centers!

Nestled between Austin and San Antonio, this picturesque region features undulating hills, sparkling waterways, and towering oaks, offering an ideal setting for leisurely drives and a taste of cowboy heritage.

Travel advice:When visiting in spring, keep an eye out for vibrant bluebonnet blooms that appear throughout the Hill Country. The best time to see them is between March and mid-April.

Head westward toward Hamilton Pool Preserve

For your initial destination, we’re keeping with the aquatic motif by directing you to Hamilton Pool.

This nature reserve boasts a stunning 50-foot waterfall that cascades into a pristine blue pool, surrounded by rough-hewn rocks and lush trees—truly as picturesque as it seems.

Unlike Barton Springs Pool, the water at this spot is quite chilly, making swimming enjoyable mainly during the summer months. Still, it’s a beautiful location worth visiting while traveling through the Hill Country.

When planning a trip to Hamilton Pool Preserve, keep in mind that securing a paid reservation in advance is required for entry.

While this might seem particular, it ensures the area never becomes overly busy, benefiting both visitors and the protection of the breathtaking natural surroundings.

The event features two sessions—a morning one and an afternoon one. Admission is priced at $11 per person, with an extra $15 fee per vehicle upon arrival.

Keep in mind that swimming may not always be permitted. Heavy rainfall or increased bacteria levels in the water can pose risks, so always verify conditions online before your visit.

Keep in mind that the pool is approximately a 30-minute walk from the parking area, featuring uneven terrain and steps. Wear suitable footwear and assess your mobility beforehand, as the path may not be suitable for everyone.

Once the technical details are settled, take an hour or two to savor this breathtaking spot—wander around the pool’s edges, bask in the sunlight, or take a refreshing swim (if you’re feeling daring).

Travel advice:If the weather isn’t ideal, the pool is fully reserved, or you simply don’t feel like heading to the pool, you might consider driving a bit farther and exploring Enchanted Rock instead.

This pink granite hill stands out against the lush green landscapes of the Hill Country, offering a perfect spot for a stroll and some crisp, refreshing air—though be sure to bundle up if you venture to the summit, as temperatures can drop significantly!

Return to the vehicle and head south toward Bandera

Your upcoming destination in the Hill Country is Bandera, located approximately 105 miles away from the pool.

You’ll likely need nearly two hours to reach your destination, so if you’re hungry, consider stopping for lunch or grabbing snacks in Fredericksburg along the route.

Hopefully you’ll reach Bandera by early or mid-afternoon, allowing ample time to enjoy its authentic Texan rustic appeal.

Known as the self-declared ‘Cowboy Capital of Texas,’ this is the spot to visit for authentic cowboys, dude ranches, rodeo events, and honky-tonk bars.

This town stays loyal to its heritage, celebrating classic southern U.S. traditions while avoiding an overflow of chain restaurants and stores. A trip here is essential for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the cowboy lifestyle.

This area doesn’t have many notable attractions, so simply take a stroll to soak up the authentic Texan vibe. A walk along Main Street is the perfect introduction, with its lively array of shops, bars, and eateries.

A must-visit spot is Bandera General Store, offering a wide range of items, including cowboy boots, hats, gifts, BBQ sauces, and ice cream.

The shop boasts one of just 11 vintage soda fountains remaining in all of Texas, making it the perfect spot for a classic refreshment after your journey.

Visit Silver Spur Ranch for an exciting horseback riding adventure.

Gear up in cowboy clothing, get back in your vehicle, and take a 15-minute drive to Silver Spur Ranch for a horseback riding adventure. This iconic ranch offers the perfect opportunity to soak in the final moments of the Hill Country before continuing your journey to San Antonio.

The ranch provides one-hour rides priced at $45 or two-hour rides for $80 (including a $5 parking fee). Slip into your blue jeans, hop on a horse, and get ready to embrace your inner cowboy (or cowgirl).

Continue your journey to San Antonio and enjoy an evening meal along the Riverwalk.

Once you’ve reached San Antonio and settled into your hotel, it will likely be evening. Head to the Riverwalk for a peaceful dinner to end the day on a pleasant note.

This delightful area of the city features scenic pathways winding alongside the San Antonio River, bordered by an array of fantastic bars and dining spots.

The Riverwalk sparkles with dazzling lights after dark, so choose a waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy the vibrant ambiance. Since you’ll return on day 3 for a thorough exploration, focus on savoring a great meal tonight without hesitation.

Here are two restaurant ideas to spark your creativity… just steer clear of Tex-Mex since you’ll be indulging in that tomorrow.

• Boudro’s Boudro’s, a beloved Texas bistro located along the Riverwalk, offers a robust menu featuring seafood, specialty meats, soups, salads, and delectable starters. Don’t miss their famous tableside guacamole, made fresh right before your eyes—it doesn’t get any fresher than this!

Boudro’s Boudro’s, a beloved Texas bistro located along the Riverwalk, is renowned for its robust seafood and specialty meat offerings, alongside an array of soups, salads, and delectable starters. Don’t miss their famous tableside guacamole, freshly made right before your eyes—it doesn’t get any fresher than this!

• Ocho Nestled in a glass conservatory with scenic river views, Ocho earns high praise for its prime setting and delectable cuisine. The menu blends Latin and Texan inspirations, offering bold flavor pairings and a touch of timeless elegance. Don’t miss their renowned Margaritas at the Havana Bar downstairs—a perfect post-dinner stop for some of San Antonio’s finest cocktails.

Ocho Nestled in a glass conservatory with scenic river views, Ocho earns high praise for its prime setting and delectable cuisine. The menu blends Latin and Texan inspirations, offering bold flavor pairings and a touch of timeless charm. Don’t miss the exceptional Margaritas at the Havana Bar downstairs—a perfect post-dinner stop for some of San Antonio’s finest.

Stay for a beverage and a walk by the Riverwalk before returning to your hotel to end the evening—after all, it’s been an exhausting day!

Day 3: San Antonio – explore the Alamo, wander through the Historic Market Square, and unwind at the Japanese Tea Garden

Take a leisurely walk along the Riverwalk during the day, then explore the Alamo.

Start your third day with a peaceful morning walk along the Riverwalk. At night, this area comes alive with bars and restaurants, but during the day, it transforms into a serene spot for a leisurely walk. Enjoy the abundant greenery and charming architecture lining the water’s edge.

Start your day with a leisurely morning stroll, pick up a coffee to go, and spend the remainder of the morning exploring the Alamo.

Officially known as the Alamo Mission (or the Mission San Antonio de Valero), the historic site is a former Spanish mission and fortress compound located in present-day San Antonio, Texas. Established in the 18th century, it played a pivotal role in the Texas Revolution, particularly during the famous Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Today, it stands as a symbol of courage and sacrifice, attracting visitors from around the world.The Alamo MissionConstructed in the 18th century, the building (known as in Spanish) served as one of the first Spanish missions in Texas, aimed at teaching American Indians the principles of Christianity.

Originally serving as a stronghold, it gained prominence as the location of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, fought against the Mexican Army. Today, it stands as a symbol of Texan identity, honoring the courage of those who stood their ground during the conflict.

Today, it stands as a captivating historical destination, featuring a stunning church, a Long Barrack that hosts a detailed exhibition on the area’s past, and picturesque grounds complete with a fountain, courtyard, and expansive green areas to explore.

Admission to the Alamo is free, though it operates on donations, so contributing a small amount to one of the donation boxes is appreciated.

Grab a bite to eat at the Historic Market Square during lunchtime

After a morning of exploring, you’ll likely be hungry, so head to the Historic Market Square for lunch and some leisurely shopping. It’s approximately a 20-minute walk west of the Alamo or just a short drive away.

Among the biggest Mexican markets beyond Mexico’s borders, this vibrant open-air plaza features more than 100 independent vendors and stores offering authentic Talavera pottery, bright garments, and artisanal souvenirs.

The market also features classic music and live shows, immersing you in the vibrant atmosphere of Mexico City.

Before exploring the stalls, take a moment to enjoy the delicious food available and treat yourself to lunch—the market highlights San Antonio’s finest Tex-Mex offerings.

Enjoy tacos and craft beer at Viva Villa Taqueria, then indulge in a dessert from Mi Tierra Cafe and Bakery. Afterward, take time to explore, immerse yourself in the vibe, and pick up a few keepsakes.

Enjoy the remainder of your afternoon unwinding in the serene setting of the Japanese Tea Garden.

Discover Spanish history at the Alamo and immerse yourself in Mexican customs at the Historic Market Square, then embrace Japanese culture at the Japanese Tea Garden.

Tucked away in Brackenridge Park, just north of the city (driving is likely your best option), this peaceful garden offers a surprising touch of Japan in Texas. It’s a stunning but often overlooked spot worth exploring.

Originally a rock quarry, the site was transformed into the Japanese Tea Garden in 1917, now featuring walkways, stone bridges, and a classic pagoda throughout the area.

Following a thorough renovation from 2005 to 2011, the garden now features rare plants, Japanese Koi fish, and the iconic Jinju house.

Stroll leisurely through the garden, taking time to admire the stone Pavilion, lily ponds, and waterfall, then stop by Jingu House Cafe for a relaxing cup of tea. To fully appreciate this peaceful urban retreat, we suggest setting aside an hour or two to explore.

If you’re tired of the garden but still have a few hours before dusk, Brackenridge Park also houses the San Antonio Zoo, a golf course, and a botanical garden, offering plenty of other ways to spend your time.

Enjoy a meal before making your way to the Pearl District for cocktails.

Immerse yourself in Texan culture for the night and enjoy a meal before venturing to the Pearl District for cocktails. This vibrant neighborhood, transformed from the former Pearl Brewery, is rapidly emerging as one of the city’s most fashionable spots.

Celebrate the district’s heritage by choosing a pint of Southerleigh Brewery’s distinctive craft beers (watch for the playful names, like ‘Texas Uncommon Ale’ and ‘Koalas, Cocker Spaniels and Unicorns’), or visit for an elegant cocktail paired with live music.

No matter which you pick, both perfectly capture the essence of this area and serve as an ideal way to conclude your San Antonio visit before heading to Houston the next day.

Day 4: Travel from San Antonio to Houston, tour the Space Center, and discover the city’s attractions

Head directly to Space Center Houston without any detours

The trip from San Antonio to Houston typically lasts about three hours and 45 minutes, so it’s best to leave shortly after breakfast to reach Space Center Houston by late morning.

Famous globally as the location of NASA Mission Control, no trip to Houston is complete without exploring the Space Center. Secure your tickets early to skip the lines and dive into the experience.

This engaging and educational center is dedicated to sharing the wonders of space exploration, featuring more than 400 space artifacts, numerous captivating exhibits and hands-on displays, as well as flown spacecraft and detailed replicas for visitors to discover.

As you might have noticed, there’splentyThere’s plenty to explore here, enough to fill the remainder of your day, so if touring Houston isn’t a priority, you can focus entirely on space-related attractions during this part of the trip.

To make the most of your afternoon, we recommend dedicating approximately three hours to explore the center, focusing on the sections that interest you the most.

To help you prepare, here’s an overview of what you’ll experience during your visit:

The NASA Tram Tour offers an immersive journey through the facilities, providing a firsthand look at the agency’s groundbreaking work and historic landmarks.A ride on the center’s tram offers a journey through the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC), providing an exclusive glimpse into the world of space exploration. Highlights include visiting the astronaut training facility, exploring the historic Mission Operations Control Room (where NASA directed the legendary first moon landing), and a stop at Rocket Park.

Gallery of the International Space Station –This engaging exhibit provides a glimpse into the innovations and purpose of the International Space Station (ISS), showcasing what daily life in space entails while displaying authentic artifacts worn or utilized during actual ISS missions.

Starship Gallery –This section of the Space Center showcases several historic spacecraft, such as Apollo 17 (the final Apollo mission to the moon) and Gemini V (which carried two astronauts to the moon amid the Cold War). Visitors can even touch an authentic moon rock—an undeniably impressive experience.

Independence Plaza –One of the center’s standout features is the Independence Plaza. Here, visitors can step inside the replica shuttle Independence, positioned atop the authentic NASA 905 shuttle carrier aircraft. It’s a rare chance to explore a shuttle up close, so don’t miss this unforgettable experience during your visit.

Mission Mars –This immersive exhibition lets you glimpse the sensation of a voyage to Mars. Witness a simulated sunset on the red planet, interact with an authentic Mars rock, and explore a life-sized Orion capsule to grasp the monumental expedition astronauts will undertake to reach this captivating world.

The Astronaut Gallery showcases a collection dedicated to space explorers and their achievements.Featuring one of the most extensive spacesuit collections globally, this exhibit showcases suits utilized for various purposes, ranging from training exercises to lunar missions. Among the highlights are the suits worn by the first two American female astronauts, representing pivotal milestones in the evolution of space exploration.

Admission to all the listed exhibitions is included with each ticket, priced at $29.95.

Discover Houston and dedicate the remainder of your afternoon to uncovering the city’s attractions.

After exploring the Space Center, if you still have extra time, head into Houston and take the opportunity to discover what the city has to offer.

Houston stands as Texas’s largest city, teeming with top-tier dining, mesmerizing art galleries, an outstanding retail experience, and vibrant after-dark entertainment.

After your incredible trip to the Space Center, you’ll likely feel done with museums for the day, so we recommend simply strolling through the city at a relaxed pace.

Make time to explore a section of the downtown underground tunnels—a climate-controlled maze linking hotels, banks, stores, and government buildings. Don’t miss visiting the Rothko Chapel with its distinctive octagonal shape, and capture a sunset picture of the Sam Houston monument (a key figure in the Texas Revolution) standing in Hermann Park.

Have dinner at The Pass & Provisions

When hunger strikes, head to The Pass & Provisions for dinner (the easiest route is to take your rental car, as the restaurant offers both self-parking and free valet service).

At this dual-concept restaurant, you can opt for an elegant tasting menu in The Pass’s sophisticated dining area or enjoy a casual, laid-back meal at Provisions—the choice is entirely yours.

At The Pass, enjoy a sophisticated five-course tasting menu ($65) featuring fresh seasonal ingredients, with the option to complement each dish with a carefully selected beverage pairing ($110).

The menu offers a diverse and thrilling selection of dishes, with the choice to enjoy a vegetarian alternative if preferred.

Provisions offers a satisfying, robust dining experience, featuring generous pasta dishes, rich pizzas, and hearty bistro-style meals in a relaxed and casual setting.

The dishes remain quite upscale (consider options like squid ink pasta and duck confit pizza), though not as refined as those at The Pass.

Savor your meal, indulge in a cocktail or two (Provisions) or a glass of wine from their wide selection (The Pass), then return to your hotel and unwind.

Day 5: Houston to Dallas – journey to Dallas, visit the Arts District, learn about the events surrounding John F. Kennedy’s assassination, and enjoy an evening meal at Reunion Tower’s summit.

The journey from Houston to Dallas is another lengthy trip (approximately three and a half hours), so muster the energy to wake up early once more to reach your destination with enough time for sightseeing before lunch.

Take a leisurely walk through the Arts District and explore the Dallas Museum of Art or the Nasher Sculpture Centre

Use the remaining morning hours to explore the Dallas Arts District.

Known as the biggest arts district in the nation, this neighborhood boasts a wide variety of artistic attractions to explore. Take a stroll and choose a spot to visit indoors.

Consider choosing the Dallas Museum of Art, featuring more than 22,000 works spanning from the third millennium BC to modern times, or the Nasher Sculpture Centre, renowned for its exceptional assortment of contemporary sculptures. Both options are highly recommended, either individually or together.

Entry to the Dallas Museum of Art is complimentary, while the Nasher Sculpture Centre charges a $10 fee.

Once you’ve satisfied your art cravings, enjoy a meal (both museums feature excellent cafés), then trade art for history as you head to Dealey Plaza for the afternoon.

Visit Dealey Plaza to explore the history surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

While it might not be the most uplifting distinction, Dallas is widely recognized as the location where the 35th U.S. President, John F. Kennedy, was assassinated in 1963. This historic event remains a significant part of the city’s legacy and is essential to explore during your time there.

JFK was assassinated in Dealey Plaza in Downtown Dallas as he traveled in an open-top vehicle alongside his wife and then-Texas Governor John Connally. Several attractions at this site are connected to the events surrounding his death.

The initial stop should be the Sixth Floor Museum, situated on the sixth level of the former Texas School Book Depository, precisely where Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly took the deadly shots.

The museum explores the president’s life, death, and enduring impact using historical footage—such as the unsettling Zapruder Film of the assassination—alongside artifacts, photographs, and educational exhibits that chronicle the shooting’s events and consequences.

You can stand precisely where Oswald allegedly fired the shot.

Amid the countless conspiracy theories about JFK’s assassination, this museum offers a captivating opportunity to explore the complete narrative and ponder what truly occurred to the President on that fateful day.

Admission to the museum is priced at $18, and purchasing tickets online ahead of time is recommended.

After familiarizing yourself with the details, visit the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza to honor his memory—it’s common to become absorbed in the speculation surrounding the events and forget that these displays exist to commemorate the President’s passing, not merely to recount his life.

The plaza features a modest concrete monument created by Philip Johnson, an architect and close associate of the Kennedy family, meant to serve as a secluded sanctuary amidst the city’s hustle.

The structure is designed as a cenotaph, an empty tomb representing the liberation of JFK’s spirit, with words engraved on granite slabs in the plaza (we’ll let you uncover this epitaph on your own).

Spend some leisurely moments exploring these landmarks, then stop by the nearby Commissary Cafe for a coffee and dessert before taking one last stroll through downtown Dallas.

Travel adviceHead over to Pioneer Plaza to see the Giant Eyeball and the Cattle Drive sculptures—these impressive landmarks will brighten your day after such a gloomy afternoon.

Enjoy a meal at the summit of Reunion Tower

Once you’ve settled in at your hotel, make your way to the Reunion Tower for an evening meal. The tower’s modern design features a unique illuminated sphere at its peak, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Dallas from every angle.

Secure a spot at , a dining venue perched atop the tower, offering modern Asian cuisine along with an impressive array of unique beers and sake to complement your dining experience.

Beyond the delicious cuisine, one of the standout features of this restaurant is its rotating dining room, allowing you to take in breathtaking 360-degree views without moving from your seat—an enchanting way to commemorate your Texas road trip adventure.

Enjoy a leisurely dinner, taking your time to savor the scenery as long as you can, before heading back to your hotel to end the evening.

Day 6: Travel from Dallas to Fort Worth to experience its contemporary art culture and rich cowboy history.

Sleep in late and enjoy brunch in Dallas before heading out on a drive to Fort Worth

Take it easy on day 6—your schedule has been packed until now, so you’ve earned the right to sleep in!

When you’re set, make your way to All Good Cafe in the Deep Ellum area for a satisfying brunch.

The menu offers a diverse selection, ranging from light and airy buttermilk pancakes to traditional fried breakfast dishes, along with Mexican-inspired options.huevos rancheros,breakfast tacos, along with Texas omelettes.

If you’re especially hungry, try their “world’s best” chicken-fried steak and eggs—it’s their standout dish, guaranteed to keep you fueled throughout the day.

After your meal, return to the vehicle and begin your drive to Fort Worth. This blend of contemporary and classic culture sits just 32 miles from Dallas via Route 30, ensuring the journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

Travel advice:When you arrive in Fort Worth, it’s best to travel by car between attractions instead of walking, as the locations on your list are somewhat spread out and each offers ample parking.

Explore the collections at the Kimbell Art Museum

For the ultimate Texas art education experience, make the Kimbell Art Museum your first stop after arriving in Fort Worth—just park and go straight in.

This renowned art museum boasts an extraordinary permanent collection, showcasing works by legendary artists such as Matisse, Picasso, Rembrandt, and Goya, solidifying its status as one of the nation’s finest collections.

A truly remarkable work of art to keep an eye on is Michelangelo’s *The Torment of Saint Anthony*.

This renowned Italian artist’s earliest known work is thought to have been created at the age of 12 or 13, prior to his focus on sculpture. Make sure to look for this small but significant painting during your visit.

The structure, crafted by the celebrated architect Louis Kahn, stands as a masterpiece in its own right.

The modern building features vaulted ceilings with skylights, letting sunlight pour in and brighten the artwork inside—creating a truly remarkable effect.

Entry to the permanent collection is free, but certain exhibitions require a ticket. Visit the website before your trip to see current offerings and their associated fees.

Free parking is available on site, so you won’t need to stress about locating a place to park your vehicle.

Experience the serene beauty of the Fort Worth Water Gardens

After exploring the museum, return to your vehicle and take a short drive east to visit the Fort Worth Water Gardens, a top attraction you won’t want to miss in the city.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Fort Worth, this serene urban park provides a peaceful escape from the surrounding city bustle.

The gardens boast striking architectural design while offering a tranquil atmosphere, featuring contemporary pools, tiered fountains resembling waterfalls, and shaded plazas surrounded by trees to discover.

The Active Pool remains the undeniable highlight of the exhibition.

Water tumbles 38 feet over rocky tiers before reaching a basin below, and visitors can descend alongside the flow to immerse themselves in its movement and sounds. For those able to navigate the steps, the journey is highly recommended—it’s an unforgettable adventure!

Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards to witness the cattle drive in action

Your last destination in Fort Worth is the Stockyards, located a bit farther north of the Water Gardens.

This legendary cattle region is deeply rooted in cowboy lore, offering a striking departure from the contemporary city center you’ve discovered until now.

Composed of modest structures, western shops, lively honky-tonk bars, and rodeo events, the Stockyards epitomize the essence of the Wild West.

Stroll around at your leisure, soaking up the cowboy excitement and popping into the stores for a few keepsakes if you’d like.

Plan your Stockyards adventure however you like, but don’t miss the 4pm cattle drive—it’s a must-see.

This daily ritual, occurring twice each day, features a procession of longhorn cattle guided by authentic Texas cowhands along Exchange Avenue, upholding a cherished local tradition.

Every detail of the exhibit, from the breeds of cattle to the authentic attire of the cowhands, stays true to history, vividly recreating the Old West in today’s urban setting.

If you’re concerned about the ethical issues surrounding rodeos, the cattle drive offers a fantastic option.

Enjoy a night out at Billy Bob’s Texas

Since you’ve just spent the afternoon at the Stockyards and it’s your final night in Texas, it feels perfectly appropriate to end the evening at one of the planet’s largest honky-tonk bars, .

This massive 100,000-square-foot country and western club in the Stockyards features every cowboy-inspired element imaginable, from an indoor rodeo arena and multiple bars to live country performances and a sprawling dance floor.

Before your visit, check their website to see if there’s a live performance scheduled for the evening, so you can enjoy a night of two-stepping to mark the finale of your perfect Texas road trip.

Day 7: Fort Worth to Austin – return to Austin, explore any final attractions, and head home.

Head back to Austin and enjoy your final moments in Texas to the fullest.

Day 7 marks the conclusion of your Texas travel plan, and your activities for today will hinge on when you need to arrive at the airport for your return flight.

If you have a moment to spare, here are some last-minute suggestions we’d like to share:

The Bullock Texas State History Museum showcases the rich heritage and stories of Texas, preserving its past through engaging exhibits and educational programs. Located in Austin, the museum offers a deep dive into the state’s cultural and historical evolution. Visitors can explore artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations that bring Texas history to life. The Bullock Texas State History Museum serves as a vital resource for understanding the events and people that have shaped the Lone Star State.For one last dose of history, visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Covering more than 400 years of Texas’ past, it’s the ideal spot to brush up on your understanding of the Lone Star State before your trip ends.

Discover a wealth of fascinating artefacts and displays, with the stunningly restored shipwreck as a standout attraction. Entry is priced at $12.

Franklin Barbecue is a renowned establishment celebrated for its exceptional smoked meats and traditional barbecue techniques. The restaurant has gained widespread acclaim for its meticulous approach to crafting flavorful, high-quality dishes. Patrons frequently praise the tender brisket, succulent ribs, and signature sauces that define the Franklin Barbecue experience. With a commitment to authenticity and excellence, it remains a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts.If you prefer to spend your last moments in Texas indulging your palate, then queuing up for the famous brisket at Franklin Barbecue—endorsed by former President Barack Obama—is the perfect way to do it.

Arrive early and join the line because they shut down once the food is gone, usually by 3 p.m., so you can enjoy a meal that’s the finest in town before heading out of Texas.

Zilker Park –For a more laid-back option before heading home, consider visiting Zilker Park.

This expansive green area is ideal for a peaceful stroll, enjoying a picnic, or basking in the sun before your flight, offering a wonderful spot to relax.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, Lady Bird Lake offers the perfect spot for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding during the warmer seasons.

The Tower at the University of TexasOne alternative is to ascend to a vantage point and say goodbye to Austin from the University of Texas Tower. The 45-minute guided tours conclude at the observation deck, providing panoramic views of the entire city. It’s a perfect way to wrap up your visit.

Tickets are priced at $6 and must be purchased ahead of time, with the tower remaining closed throughout the winter season.

Leave Texas behind and make your way to the airport

Wrap up your activity, bid farewell to Austin, and get back in the car to head to the airport—we hope you all enjoyed your stay in Texas!