Planning Dallas to San Antonio road trip?
While Dallas has many attractions including the JFK Memorial Plaza, Dallas Cowboys Football team and the West End Historic District, sometimes you just need to get out of the city!
San Antonio, aka the Alamo City, makes a fun road trip destination from Dallas or even a great weekend getaway from the Big D.
Here is everything you need to know to plan the Dallas San Antonio road trip including fun things to do along the way and quirky roadside stops.
Also Read: 19 Best Road Trips from Dallas
Dallas to San Antonio Driving Distance
Just how far is San Antonio from Dallas?
The distance between Dallas and San Antonio via I-35 or the main route is 275 miles.
The other route between the two cities goes through the rolling hills, historic sites, and hidden gems of Central Texas.
This scenic drive on the road trip from Dallas to San Antonio is 288 miles long.
To follow this route, you will be taking US-67 and then US-281 via Burnet and Johnson City.
Dallas to San Antonio Drive Time
During normal traffic, you will need a little under 5 hours for the I-35 drive.
However, the rush hour traffic on I-35 is really bad!
The Dallas to San Antonio drive hours can easily increase to 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours during rush hour.
Dallas to San Antonio by car on the alternate route will take you about 5 hrs 15 mins.
The drive may be just extra half-hour long but the amazing stops here are perfect if you have more time.
Especially, if you want to save on gas and explore local, then this is a great option.
Also Read: Romantic weekend getaways near San Antonio, Texas
Dallas to San Antonio Drive via I-35
This is the best route from Dallas to San Antonio if you are short on time.
Here are our favorite stops on the direct drive.
Planning to see Houston as well? Read our post on Dallas to Houston Road Trip.
Waxahachie
This is one of the most beautiful small towns in Texas and it is only a half-hour drive from Dallas.
Here you can see the Victorian-era homes, go antiquing, or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.
Hillsboro
Hillsboro is the county seat of Hill County and it has a lot of rich history.
The Hill County Courthouse is one of the most beautiful in Texas and it is worth a quick stop.
The town is also known for its museums including the Roadside America Museum and the Texas Heritage Museum.
If you are looking for somewhere to eat, then try the charming Lone Star Cafe.
West
Ah, the famous kolache stop!
This small town is home to the Czech Stop & Little Czech Bakery, a must-stop on any road trip.
The bakeries here are known for their kolaches – a pastry that is popular in Czech and German cuisine.
Slovacek’s is another great place to get some kolaches or other baked goods.
West is a must stop on the Dallas Fort Worth to San Antonio drive for foodies.
Waco
Waco is one of our favorite destinations in Central Texas.
There is so much to do here including visiting the Dr. Pepper Museum, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Waco Mammoth National Monument.
You can also take a tour of the Baylor University campus or go shopping at Magnolia Market at the Silos.
If you are looking for somewhere to eat, then try one of the many food trucks in town or the famous Waco restaurants.
Cameron Park Zoo is also a great option if you are traveling with kids.
Wondering how far from Waco to San Antonio?
You have just 3 more hours left on the road.
Temple
Temple is the perfect stop for a quick break on the drive from Dallas to San Antonio.
This town is home to the beautiful downtown and the Temple Railroad Museum.
You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants or go shopping.
Belton
Heading south, Belton is another great stop for a quick break.
This town is home to the Bell County Museum, Belton Lake, and the Summer Fun Waterpark.
Chalk Ridge Falls Park is home to a beautiful waterfall, one of the best waterfalls in Texas!
You can also grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants or go shopping.
Salado
Salado, Texas is a beautiful historic town located just north of Austin.
The town is home to a variety of attractions, including the Stagecoach Inn Museum, the Salado Sculpture Garden, and the Mill Creek Golf Course.
Salado is also known for its annual Art Walk, which features local artists and musicians.
Georgetown
One of the last stops on our I-35 road trip is Georgetown, Texas.
This town is home to a variety of attractions, including the Georgetown Inner Space Caverns.
It is also one of the best places to see bats in Texas.
The Georgetown Palace Theatre is another popular stop, as it is one of the oldest continuously operating theatres in Texas.
Last but not least, be sure to check out the Williamson County Museum, which chronicles the history of this region of Texas.
Round Rock
Next stop, Round Rock!
This town is home to the Round Rock Donuts, which are some of the best in Texas.
The Old Settlers Park is also a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy the outdoors.
For something a little different, be sure to check out the Rock’n River Family Aquatic Center, where you can go swimming, tubing, and more.
Austin
Austin is an essential stop on the San Antonio Dallas road trip.
There is so much to do in Austin, including visiting the Texas State Capitol building, the Bullock Texas State History Museum, and the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
The Bullock Museum chronicles several years of Texas history and is fascinating to visit.
The Texas Capitol building can be seen on self-guided tours during weekdays.
Also Read: Dallas to Austin Road Trip Itinerary
Be sure to check the artwork and exhibits inside, the dome, the stained glass ceiling, as well as the monuments on the grounds while you are here.
Outdoor lovers will enjoy the city’s many parks including the Zilker Metropolitan Park, the Barton Creek Greenbelt, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
If you are looking for a place to eat, then try one of Austin’s many food trucks or the famous Franklin Barbecue.
If you have some time – spend the night or even a weekend in Austin!
Austin is the live music capital of the world and there are always concerts going on.
There are also a ton of bars and clubs to check out if you are looking for a nightlife scene.
Wondering how much time left ahead?
The distance between Austin and San Antonio is 80 miles and the Austin to San Antonio drive hours are just an hour and 20 mins.
San Marcos
San Marcos, Texas is home to the Wonder World Cave and Park, which is a great place to explore with the family.
The Aquarena Springs are also a popular stop, as you can go swimming with the fish in the crystal-clear waters.
For something a little more unique, be sure to check out the glass-bottom boats that offer tours of the springs.
The San Marcos River is popular for floating and kayaking.
Not interested in all the outdoor activities?
Visit the San Marcos Premium Outlets and indulge in some shopping.
New Braunfels
The last stop on our I-35 road trip is New Braunfels, Texas.
This town is home to a variety of attractions, including Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Natural Bridge Caverns, and the New Braunfels Zoo.
You can also take a stroll down Main Street, where you will find a variety of shops and restaurants.
Buc-ee’s Gas Station
If you are driving on I-35, then you will definitely want to make a stop at Buc-ee’s.
This quintessential Texan icon is a gas station chain that is known for its clean bathrooms and a huge selection of snacks.
Try beaver nuggets, jerky, or the brisket sandwich here.
Going healthy? Buc-ee’s also has fruit cups, granola, and nuts!
Don’t want any food? Check out their huge selection of Texan decor and souvenirs!
Seriously, you can’t not visit a Buc-ee’s while in Texas!
San Antonio
Last but not least, you have arrived in San Antonio!
There are so many great things to do in San Antonio including visiting the Alamo, taking a river boat ride, and exploring the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
You can also go shopping at the San Antonio River Walk or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.
There are also a ton of great museums in San Antonio, including the Witte Museum, the San Antonio Museum of Art, and the McNay Art Museum.
Other attractions include the San Antonio Zoo and SeaWorld San Antonio.
Dallas to San Antonio Drive via US-67 and US-287
Take the road less traveled from Dallas to San Antonio!
This route via the Texas Hill Country is just stunning in spring.
Here is a detailed road trip itinerary via the scenic route on the drive Dallas to San Antonio.
Cleburne
Start your road trip in Cleburne, Texas which is just a short drive from Dallas.
This charming town is home to the Chisholm Trail Museum, Cleburne State Park, and the Railroad Museum.
If you are looking for something to eat, then be sure to try one of Cleburne’s many BBQ joints.
Glen Rose
One of the most fun road trip stop for families while driving from Dallas to San Antonio!
The charming town of Glen Rose in North Texas is known as the dinosaur capital of the Lone Star State.
Dinosaur Valley State Park is a great spot to explore with the kids.
Here you can see real dinosaur tracks, go hiking and mountain biking, and even go swimming in the Paluxy River.
You can also check out Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, where you can take a drive-through safari ride and see animals from all over the world.
Also Read: Best dinosaur museums in Texas
Dinosaur World is another great spot for kids, as they can dig for fossils in the dig pit and see over 150 life-size dinosaur replicas.
There are also many great restaurants in Glen Rose if you need to refuel.
Hico
Hico is a small town that is full of charm.
The main street is lined with cute shops and restaurants.
Some of the popular spots include the Billy the Kid Museum, Historic Hico downtown, and the Silver Spun Winery.
Hamilton
Hamilton, Texas is a charming small town.
It is home to a variety of attractions, including the Hamilton County Courthouse and the historic downtown.
Visitors can also enjoy hiking and biking trails, picnicking in one of the town’s parks, or shopping at one of the many local boutiques.
Lampasas
Lampasas is a small town in the Texas Hill Country.
It is home to many historical buildings, including the downtown buildings, Hanna Springs Sculpture Graden, murals, and the famous spring-fed pool.
The city also has a variety of parks and recreation areas, perfect for a picnic or a day of hiking.
It is a great place to stop on the San Antonio to Dallas drive to explore the surrounding Texas Hill Country.
Burnet
Burnet is a beautiful city in the Texas Hill Country.
It is home to many historical landmarks and scenic views.
It is known as the bluebonnet capital of Texas and home to the bluebonnet festival in spring.
The festival is one of our favorite things to do between Dallas and San Antonio in the wildflower season.
Some of the popular area attractions include the Bluebonnet Trail, Inks Lake State Park, and the Longhorn Caverns.
Also Read: Best Places to see bluebonnets in Texas
Marble Falls
Marble Falls is a city in the Texas Hill Country and one of the best places to stop on the way to San Antonio from Dallas for nature lovers.
It is home to many beautiful lakes and rivers.
The city is also home to the Marble Falls Dam, which provides hydroelectric power to the area.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking in one of the city’s parks.
Johnson City
Johnson City is a quaint city in the Texas Hill Country.
It is home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, which commemorates the 36th President’s life and legacy.
It is a great stop on the road trip Dallas to San Antonio for history lovers.
The city is also home to many art galleries, shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Blanco
Blanco is a small town in the Texas Hill Country and your last stop on the San Antonio drive from Dallas.
It is home to the Blanco State Park, which offers hiking, biking, and picnicking.
The city is also home to the Blanco County Courthouse, which is a National Historic Landmark.
San Antonio
Finally, you have arrived in San Antonio!
There are so many things to do here including visiting the Alamo and other historic missions, taking a riverboat or paddling down the San Antonio River, or exploring the Historic Market Square.
You can also enjoy the city’s nightlife by checking out some of the local bars and clubs.
Also Read: Best Restaurants on the San Antonio Riverwalk
Dallas to San Antonio flights
Do not wish to make the long road trip?
You can also take a flight between the two cities.
There are many direct flights between Dallas and San Antonio by all major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest airlines, and more.
However, there are not that many cheap flights on the Dallas to San Antonio flight route.
This option is best for those who are traveling for business and have very short time in San Antonio.
Looking for tips for cheapest flights to San Antonio Intl airport from Dallas?
Keep scanning for San Antonio flight prices for a week or more to see trends, book flights well in advance, and consider nearby airports like Austin and Houston.
Leave from DFW airport, land at the San Antonio International Airport and then explore the Alamo City.
So there you have it, our Dallas San Antonio road trip itinerary!
We hope you enjoy your travels and make some great memories along the way.