Great Road Trips from Dallas-Fort Worth

Living in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area has its perks, and one of the best is the central location that makes it easy to take exciting road trips. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip, a weekend escape, or a longer adventure, there are plenty of scenic and fun destinations just a drive away. Here are some great road trips from Dallas-Fort Worth that are perfect for every type of traveler.

1-Day Road Trips

These destinations are perfect for a quick getaway. They’re close enough to enjoy a full day of adventure and be back home by nightfall.

Waco

Driving distance: 95 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 1.5 hours

Waco is a popular destination for fans of Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Market at the Silos, but the city offers much more. Visit the Dr. Pepper Museum, explore the Waco Mammoth National Monument, or stroll through Cameron Park Zoo. Don’t forget to visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum to dive into the state’s legendary law enforcement history.

Austin

Driving distance: 195 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 3 hours

Known for its vibrant music scene, quirky culture, and natural beauty, Austin is a great spot for a day trip. Wander around Zilker Park, take a dip in Barton Springs Pool, and stroll down South Congress Avenue to explore unique shops and restaurants. Don’t miss out on the Texas State Capitol and the city’s thriving food truck culture.

Caddo Lake State Park

Driving distance: 185 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 3 hours

For a peaceful retreat into nature, Caddo Lake State Park offers the perfect escape. With its moss-draped cypress trees and slow-moving bayous, the park provides a serene atmosphere ideal for kayaking, canoeing, or hiking. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching and fishing.

Fort Worth

Driving distance: 35 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 45 minutes

For those in DFW, Fort Worth offers a quick and easy getaway. Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards for a taste of cowboy culture, stroll through the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, or explore art at the Kimbell Art Museum. Fort Worth’s lively downtown also features great dining and entertainment options.

Turner Falls Park

Driving distance: 85 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 1.5 hours

Nestled in the Arbuckle Mountains of Oklahoma, Turner Falls Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With waterfalls, natural swimming holes, hiking trails, and caves, this park offers plenty of adventure for a day trip. Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit for a dip in the refreshing waters!

Davy Crockett National Forest

Driving distance: 160 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 3 hours

Named after the legendary frontiersman, Davy Crockett National Forest offers over 160,000 acres of stunning natural beauty. This is an excellent spot for hiking, camping, birdwatching, and fishing. The Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area provides a great spot to relax and take in the serene surroundings.

Weekend Road Trips

For those with more time to spare, these weekend road trips offer plenty to explore and enjoy.

Texas Hill Country

Driving distance: 225 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 4 hours

With rolling hills, charming small towns, and vineyards, Texas Hill Country is one of the most picturesque regions in the state. Spend your weekend visiting wineries, exploring quaint towns like Fredericksburg or Dripping Springs, and hiking in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

San Antonio

Driving distance: 275 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 4.5 hours

San Antonio is steeped in history, making it a perfect destination for a weekend road trip. Visit the Alamo, stroll along the scenic River Walk, and explore San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. The city also has great restaurants, shopping, and family-friendly attractions like SeaWorld and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

Oklahoma City

Driving distance: 205 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 3 hours

Head north to Oklahoma City for a weekend of culture, history, and fun. The Oklahoma City National Memorial honors the victims of the 1995 bombing, while the Bricktown entertainment district offers restaurants, bars, and boat tours. Don’t miss the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for a deep dive into the American West.

Hot Springs

Driving distance: 300 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 5 hours

Hot Springs, Arkansas, is known for its historic thermal baths, scenic trails, and unique charm. Spend a weekend soaking in the healing waters of Hot Springs National Park, hiking Hot Springs Mountain, or exploring the shops and restaurants in downtown Hot Springs.

Houston

Driving distance: 240 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 3.5 hours

As the largest city in Texas, Houston offers a diverse range of activities. Visit the Houston Museum District, explore Space Center Houston, and enjoy shopping and dining in The Galleria. For outdoor lovers, nearby Buffalo Bayou Park offers great views and hiking trails.

Galveston

Driving distance: 290 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 4.5 hours

Just an hour outside of Houston, Galveston is the perfect beach getaway for a weekend road trip. Relax on the sandy shores of the Gulf of Mexico, visit the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, and stroll through the historic Strand District filled with shops, restaurants, and museums.

Colorado Bend State Park

Driving distance: 200 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 3.5 hours

For outdoor enthusiasts, Colorado Bend State Park offers a weekend full of adventure. The park features hiking trails, caves, and waterfalls, including the beautiful Gorman Falls. It’s a perfect spot for camping, fishing, or just immersing yourself in nature.

Longer Road Trips

If you’re ready for a longer adventure, these destinations offer incredible landscapes, unique experiences, and plenty of time to explore.

Big Bend National Park

Driving distance: 480 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 8 hours

For those seeking a more rugged and remote experience, Big Bend National Park is the ultimate destination. Located in West Texas along the Rio Grande, this national park offers stunning desert landscapes, dramatic canyons, and hot springs. It’s ideal for hiking, stargazing, and exploring the beauty of the Texas wilderness.

New Orleans

Driving distance: 510 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 7.5 hours

For a mix of vibrant culture, delicious food, and rich history, New Orleans is the perfect road trip destination. Explore the lively French Quarter, indulge in Creole and Cajun cuisine, and enjoy live music on Bourbon Street. Be sure to visit Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the city’s famous above-ground cemeteries.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Driving distance: 485 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 8 hours

Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico offers a one-of-a-kind adventure with its vast underground cave system. Spend the day exploring the Big Room, the largest single cave chamber in North America, and stick around for the evening bat flight program where thousands of bats take flight from the caves.

Lake Charles

Driving distance: 330 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 5 hours

Known for its casinos, creole culture, and outdoor adventures, Lake Charles in Louisiana is a great destination for a longer road trip. Enjoy the casino resorts, explore the Creole Nature Trail, or sample authentic Cajun cuisine.

El Paso

Driving distance: 605 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 9 hours

Nestled along the border with Mexico, El Paso offers stunning desert landscapes, rich history, and cultural experiences. Visit Franklin Mountains State Park, explore the historic Mission Trail, or take a day trip to nearby White Sands National Park.

Palo Duro Canyon

Driving distance: 360 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 6 hours

Often called the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the U.S. and offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and camping spots. Don’t miss the Texas Outdoor Musical, which showcases the history of the state through song and dance in an outdoor amphitheater set within the canyon.

Lafayette

Driving distance: 390 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 6 hours

Known as the heart of Cajun culture, Lafayette is a fantastic destination for music, food, and history lovers. Explore the Vermilionville Historic Village, savor authentic Cajun dishes, and enjoy live Zydeco music.

Corpus Christi

Driving distance: 390 miles
Driving time from Dallas: 6 hours

For a beach vacation with a little Texas flair, head to Corpus Christi. Relax on the beaches, visit the Texas State Aquarium, and tour the USS Lexington, a World War II aircraft carrier-turned-museum. Padre Island National Seashore is a must-see for nature lovers and offers some of the best birdwatching in the region.

Final Thoughts

With so many incredible destinations just a drive away, Dallas-Fort Worth is the perfect hub for unforgettable road trips. Whether you’re looking for a day trip, weekend escape, or a longer adventure, there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning a group trip, family outing, or corporate retreat, Dallas Bus Service can help with all your transportation needs. Contact us today for comfortable, reliable bus transportation across the DFW area!