Are you looking for the best road trips from Dallas? If so, you’re in luck! There are plenty of amazing places to explore within driving distance of Dallas. From desert landscapes and mountain peaks to lush forests and vast lakes, there’s something for everyone when it comes to road trips from Dallas. Whether you want a day trip or an extended adventure, these destinations should be at the top of your list. So grab your road trip essentials (aka snacks, duh) and get ready for an unforgettable journey.
Best Road Trips from Dallas
1. Fort Worth
Distance to Dallas: 1 hour
Forth Worth, Texas is the sister city of Dallas and it is the perfect destination for a quick day trip. Just an hour’s drive away, this vibrant city has plenty of attractions to explore, including the renowned Fort Worth Stockyards and the must-see Kimbell Art Museum. Enjoy delicious local cuisine at one of its many award-winning restaurants or catch a movie or concert at Sundance Square.
2. Granbury
Distance to Dallas: 1 hour 15 minutes
Granbury, Texas is a charming little town situated about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Dallas. This quaint destination is known for its excellent shopping and year-round festivals. Cruise down the historic downtown district lined with unique antique shops, boutiques, and cafes. Enjoy swimming, fishing, and camping at Lake Granbury, or take in some of the stunning views from nearby Granbury Mountain. History buffs will love exploring the town’s many historical sites, such as the Hood County Courthouse and Granbury City Cemetery.
3. Waco
Distance to Dallas: 1.5 hours
Waco, Texas is a charming city located 1 hour and 30 minutes south of Dallas and it offers plenty of fun activities, natural beauty, and attractions. Take a stroll along the banks of the Brazos River or explore Martin Luther King Jr Park with its historic monuments and excellent picnic spots. Marvel at Cameron Park Zoo, where you can view exotic animals from all over the world. The longest lazy river in the world (or so they claim) is located at WacoSurf for a day spent on the water outdoors. And, of course, make a stop at the Magnolia Silos. If you’ve been living under a rock, the Silos were made popular by Chip and Joanna Gaines on their HGTV show. With a sprawling green lawn, a baseball field, multiple food trucks, and the coveted home decor shops you could really spend your whole day there! Don’t forget to save room for a cupcake from the Magnolia Bakery, my personal favorite is the “Shiplap” flavor (vanilla cake with vanilla icing – basic, but on brand).
4. Glen Rose
Distance to Dallas: 1 hour 15 minutes
Glen Rose, Texas is an adventure-lover’s paradise, located just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Dallas. This small town is home to numerous outdoor activities, including floating down the majestic Brazos River, hiking in Dinosaur Valley State Park, and exploring Fossil Rim Wildlife Center. Then take a break at the charming square, where you can find unique shops and restaurants.
5. Fredericksburg
Distance to Dallas: 4 hours
Fredericksburg, Texas is a favorite road trip destination for Texans, situated about four hours from Dallas. This peaceful town is located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country and has a unique German heritage. It’s renowned for its abundant wineries, excellent restaurants, art galleries, and late Summer peaches. Enjoy all that Fredericksburg has to offer with its countless shops, boutiques, cafes, spas, and more! There’s even the impressive National Museum of the Pacific War located on the main street, which is considered one of the top 5 museums in the country. It may seem an unlikely place for a WWII museum, but Admiral Nimitz was from Fredericksburg. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll along Main Street, explore one of its many vineyards, or take in some history there’s something for everyone in Fredericksburg!
6. Witchita Falls
Distance to Dallas: 2 hours 15 minutes
Wichita Falls, Texas makes for a great destination as a road trip from Dallas. Located 2 hours and 15 minutes northwest of Dallas, this city offers plenty of attractions to explore. Enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Wichita Park where you can take part in numerous activities such as fishing, kayaking, and paddle boating. Visit The Kemp Center for the Arts or see a show at Backdoor Theatre. Then end your evening with a night out on the town along Seventh Street with its countless restaurants and bars – there really is something for everyone in Wichita Falls!
7. Canton
Distance to Dallas: 1 hour
Canton, Texas is a perfect destination for a road trip from Dallas. Located about 1 hour away this small town offers numerous attractions to explore. Spend your days browsing unique antiques in the historic downtown district or take a drive up to First Monday Trade Days, where you can find almost anything! There are plenty of outdoor activities available as well; go fishing at Cedar Creek Reservoir, pack a picnic lunch, and spend some time along the shores of Lake Tawakoni. With so much to offer, Canton makes for one of the best road trips from Dallas!
8. Nacogdoches
Distance to Dallas: 2 hours 45 minutes
Nacogdoches, Texas is a great spot for a road trip from Dallas. Located 2 hours 45 minutes east of Dallas in Pineywoods East Texas, this charming city offers numerous activities and attractions to explore. Nacogdoches is known as the first city in the state of Texas, founded in 1779. The historic downtown district features eclectic shops, restaurants, and galleries housed within beautifully restored buildings. Take a stroll along the banks of Banita Creek or hike through Stephen F. Austin State Park where you can find majestic old-growth forests as well as colorful wildflowers and beautiful Azeleas in the Springtime. Enjoy unique events such as the Nacogdoches Blueberry Festival or take part in outdoor activities like biking and kayaking at Lake Nacogdoches.
9. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Distance to Dallas: 5 hours 45 minutes
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a great road trip destination from Dallas for a long weekend. Located just outside Amarillo, about 5 hours and 45 minutes from Dallas, it is considered to be the second largest canyon in North America, behind the Grand Canyon. Palo Duro Canyon State Park provides incredible views and activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping. Explore its numerous trails that range from easy level walks to more rugged terrain or take part in an educational program offered by park rangers.
10. Galveston
Distance to Dallas: 4 hours 15 minutes
Galveston Beach is the closest beach to Dallas, which is located about 4 hours and 15 minutes away. Enjoy a day of fun in the sun with activities like swimming, fishing, beach volleyball, and more. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore the area’s unique history, such as the Galveston Island State Park, Historic Strand, and Moody Mansion. It’s also one of the important areas in the state during the bird migration in the Spring.
11. Ouachita Mountains
Distance to Dallas: 4 hours
The Ouachita Mountains is the closest mountain range to Dallas. Located about 4 hours away in Southeastern Oklahoma and Western Arkansas, this mountain range offers stunning scenery and plenty of activities for the whole family. Enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing in its numerous state parks or explore some of the area’s unique attractions such as Hot Spring National Park and The Arkansas Museum of Natural History.
Whether you are looking for a short day trip or planning an extended road trip, the Dallas area offers plenty of great options. From Canton to Nacogdoches, Palo Duro Canyon to Galveston Beach, and the Ouachita Mountains, there is something for everyone when it comes to planning your best road trip from Dallas! So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!
From our entire family to yours, happy travels!
