Houston’s unique geographical location offers diverse day trip options for Houstonians. Among the most popular options are excursions to Galveston Island, known for its sandy beaches and historic attractions like the Strand Historic District. Another favorite is Space Center Houston, offering an immersive space exploration experience.
The cultural hub of San Antonio with its historic sites, wildlife adventures in the Brazos Bend State Park, and the culinary delights in nearby cities like Austin roundup the myriad of exciting destinations within a short drive of the vibrant city of Houston.
For those seeking hidden gems, the serene Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge provides a peaceful escape into nature. The charming town of Brenham, with its bluebonnet-filled fields, is an ideal springtime retreat. Antique enthusiasts can explore the quaint shops in Round Top, while wine lovers can savor tastings in the Texas Hill Country.
However, what most others won’t tell you is that there is a wealth of destinations beyond these. Ever heard of Lake Houston Wilderness Park and Umbrella Alley in Baytown? Take a trip to the top of the San Jacinto Monument with us! Houstonians have the privilege of experiencing a rich tapestry of landscapes and activities just a stone’s throw away – and you’re in the perfect place to discover them all!
Also Read: 18 Best weekend Getaways from Houston, Texas
Best Houston Suburbs to explore on day trips
Houston is spread really far and white.
That means many of its suburbs also make perfect day trips from Houston, TX.
You can stay within the city and still plan a day trip to Katy or Woodlands.
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The Woodlands
The Woodlands is one of Houston’s most famous suburbs.
Located north of the city, it is famous for its shopping, dining, and outdoor attractions.
People watch while the kids play at Market Street or take the free Town Center Trolley to Waterway Square.
The Waterway Square is our favorite area.
Here you will find the beautiful water fountain.
It looks even more amazing when lit up at night. You can also take a cruise on the Waterway.
You can also go kayaking on Lake Woodlands, making this one of the popular day trips from Houston for nature lovers.
Distance – 40 mins
Kemah Boardwalk
The Kemah Boardwalk is one of the most fun day trips from Houston that you can plan for the whole family.
This amusement park has a delightful retro vibe.
Here you will find a variety of rides including a ferris wheel, roller coaster, and carousel.
You can purchase an all day pass which lets the kids enjoy unlimited rides on the boardwalk.
The boardwalk also has many great restaurants and it is perfect for people watching.
Our kids enjoy the water views and seeing the boats in the inlet.
The sunsets on the Gulf of Mexico are also very beautiful on the boardwalk.
Also the boardwalk looks very pretty at night with the neon signs and exciting atmosphere.
We definitely recommend staying here until it’s dark.
Distance – 1 hour
Also Read: 33 Best Day Trips in Texas
Katy
Katy is one of the oldest and most popular suburbs in Houston.
The area has plenty of historical, cultural, and urban attractions for families.
The Katy Heritage Society Railroad Museum is a must for train loving kids.
They can see the historic depot and a vintage caboose.
The Katy Mills Mall is an exciting destination for shopping.
Here you will find all the major brands as well as entertainment such as movies and arcade games.
For outdoor lovers, hike the mile long Mary Jo Peckham trail or go fishing at the lake.
Distance – 35 mins
Space Center Houston
Space Center Houston is a must-visit when in the area.
Here you can learn all about human initiatives in outer space exploration.
This is a fascinating place to visit for science nerds and geeks.
We enjoy spending hours here looking at the exhibits such as astronaut uniforms, moon rocks, and debris from outer space .
You can watch a space movie or take the tram tours to see the Saturn V Rocket, Astronaut Training Center, and Mission Control Room.
Spending a day at the Johnson Space Center NASA is definitely one of our favorite day trips from Houston.
Distance – 40 mins
Clear Lake City
While Clear Lake City is home to Kemah Boardwalk and Space Center Houston, there are many other things to do in this exciting suburb.
You can go hiking at the Armand Bayou Nature Center.
You will be able to spot a variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles in the park.
The Lone Star flight Museum is also based here and is home to over 40 vintage aircrafts and aviation artifacts.
Distance – 40 mins
Conroe
Conroe is based around Lake Conroe and naturally, this area is great for different kinds of water sports.
You can go bass fishing or just rent a boat to spend a day on the water.
The Margaritaville Resort is based here and makes a great place to stay, if you’re looking for something more than a day trip.
The city also has many parks and a historic downtown district and that is great for a quick stroll.
Distance – 50 mins
Sugar Land
Sugar Land is one of our favorite day trips from the Houston area where you can visit museums and enjoy a cultural experience away from Houston’s busy downtown Museum District.
Here you can visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science Sugar Land campus.
Or let the kids enjoy at Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center.
The area also has many hiking trails and the beautiful Oyster Creek Park.
Distance – 35 mins
Rosenberg and Richmond
Rosenberg is a small town located southwest of Houston.
The main attraction here is the Rosenberg Historic Downtown District.
Here you will find striking Western style buildings.
Most of them have been restored to their original glory and house boutiques, cafes, and antique stores.
Rosenberg is also home to many other attractions such as the Fort Bend Museum,
where you can learn about the first colony established in the area in the 1820s…..
…..and the George Ranch historical park, a living history park in Richmond.
Brazos Bend State Park is also located here and is great to observe the night sky at the George observatory or go hiking and spot alligators.
Distance – 50 mins
Spring
Spring was once famous for the railroad.
Since then, the suburb has grown by leaps and bounds yet Old Town Spring has retained the historic charm to attract visitors.
This historic part of the city has Victorian style buildings and is charming to take a walk.
You can spend the day eating delicious food at restaurants and cafes, sipping on drinks, and shopping at boutique stores.
A must visit Spring attraction is the Houston Texas Temple.
Mercer Botanic Gardens are also located in spring.
Spring is also home to amazing parks, nature trails, and has lots of hiking.
During the holiday season, you will find some of Houston’s most fabulously decorated homes here.
This is the perfect day trip from Houston for those living within downtown area.
Distance – 30 mins
Missouri City and Stafford
The Missouri City – Stafford area is home to one of Houston’s most Instagrammable spots, BAPS Shri. Swaminarayan Temple.
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Temple has excellent architecture and is a great place to admire the intricate carvings on its facade.
The temple is stunning and just amazing to visit.
The suburbs also have great parks where you can enjoy the natural views and local flora and fauna including the Cullinan Park and Kitty Hollow Park.
Distance – 35 mins
Best Beach Day Trip from Houston
Houston is located in the Gulf Coast region of Texas.
That means it is pretty close to some of the best beaches in the Lone Star State.
So pack your bags with a swimsuit, sunglasses, and sunscreen and put a beach chair in the trunk.
Let’s have a fun day at the beach!
Also Read: Best Beaches near Houston for a Beach Vacation
Galveston
When you think about a day trip from Houston, Galveston is the first destination that comes to most people’s minds.
This island city is the perfect fun day trip.
If you want to relax on the sand and swim in the water, then visit either Stuart Beach or East Beach.
If you love amusement rides, then visit Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier.
Or spend the day at Moody Gardens.
Galveston has just about something for everybody and is one of the best beach towns in Texas.
Distance – 55 mins
Galveston Island State Park
If you prefer undeveloped and unspoiled beaches over the beach umbrellas and beach crowds, then head to Galveston Island State Park.
Here you will likely have the beach to yourself.
You can spend a relaxing day beachcombing for sea glass and seashells or go on hiking trails or bird watch on the bayside.
You can also build a sand castle or just splash in the ocean.
This natural paradise is the perfect antidote to Houston’s busy city life.
Distance – 1 hr 5 mins
Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach located near Freeport, Texas in Brazoria County is an amazing beach day trip from Houston.
This is one of the cleanest beaches on the Gulf Coast of Texas.
It is much quieter and calmer than Galveston beaches and is a great alternative.
We love driving to the beach along the scenic Bluewater Highway Trail.
Once there, you can play on the beach, swim, walk on the jetty, or go fishing at the Surfside Jetty County Park.
The jetty is very long and amazing for a romantic sunset stroll.
You can set up the grill, have a picnic, and watch the boats come into the port.
Distance – 1 hr 5 mins
Bolivar Peninsula and Crystal Beach
Bolivar Peninsula is one of the most exciting day trips from Houston for kids because of the Galveston-Bolivar ferry.
Once on the peninsula, you can drive or set up camp anywhere along the 27 miles of coastline.
One of the most popular beaches here is Crystal Beach.
Along with the soft, powdery sand, you will also find several restaurants, shopping, and more here.
There are many other things to do on the Bolivar Peninsula including the lighthouse, birding, and the historic Fort Travis.
Distance – 1 hr 30 mins
Sea Rim State Park
Sea Rim State Park located in Port Arthur is one of the hidden gems near Houston.
This pristine state park has about 5 miles of beach frontage and hardly any visitors.
You can hike the Gambusia Nature Trail over the marshlands and spot lots of wildlife.
Or just spend a day on the beach and hunt for seashells.
The state park has excellent kayaking trails too.
Distance – 1 hr 45 mins
La Porte
Sylvan Beach Park in La Porte is an amazing beach day trip from Houston.
The beach and the water here is really clean and great for swimming.
The park also has one of the longest fishing piers in Texas.
The park is fun for the entire family as there is a play area right next to the beach.
Besides the beach, La Porte has many other attractions such as the San Jacinto Monument and Museum, The La Porte Bay Area Heritage Museum, and the Governor Ross Sterling Mansion.
Distance – 35 mins
Also Read: Houston to South Padre Island Road trip
Best Hiking and Birding Day Trips from Houston for nature lovers
Houston is also located close to many natural areas and outdoor attractions.
These are excellent for activities such as hiking, biking, birding, wildlife watching, and even camping if you want to extend your day trip.
Here are some of the best day trips in Houston for outdoor lovers.
Sam Houston National Forest
Sam Houston National Forest is one of the four national forests in Texas.
This national forest is the one located closest to Houston and is just 50 miles north of the city.
The forest has multiple recreation areas including those located along Lake Conroe.
It is a popular recreation ground for those interested in hiking, camping, hunting, and wildlife watching. Sam Houston National Forest has lots of opportunities for water sports.
You can go fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the lakes on the lakes.
The popular Lone Star Hiking Trail passes through the National Forest and is great for both short day hikes or multi day backpacking.
Distance – 55 mins
Brazos Bend State Park
Brazos Bend State Park is a favorite with our kids for alligator spotting.
In fact, this is one of the best places near Houston to see alligators in the wild.
The park is located just 45 miles south of downtown and has plenty of hiking and biking trails.
We especially love the boardwalk accessible Creekfield Lake Nature Trail.
The trail is just half a mile long and has wonderful views of the wetlands and its wildlife.
If you’re looking for more than a day trip then you can also camp within the park.
The most exciting feature of the State Park is the George Observatory.
The observatory is located within the park and managed by the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
It is open to the public on Saturday nights.
Here you can enjoy stargazing at the night sky through the observatory’s telescopes.
Distance – 50 mins
Angelina National Forest
Angelina National Forest, located in the Piney Woods region of Texas, makes a great outdoor day trip from Houston.
Popular activities here include boating and fishing on the Sam Rayburn Reservoir, boarding and wildlife watching, hiking, biking, and scenic drives.
The forest also makes a great fall day trip from Houston.
You can see splashes of vivid and vibrant fall colors amidst the dense forests of evergreen pine trees.
Distance – 2 hrs 10 mins
Davy Crockett National Forest
This one is for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts!
Davy Crockett National Forest located north of Houston is named after the legendary frontier pioneer.
This amazing outdoor recreation and wildlife habitat has many hiking trails that go through its landscape of hardwood trees, evergreen pine forests.
The forest is home to endangered birds and wildlife.
As such, birding and wildlife watching are very popular.
The Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area is popular for water activities such as swimming, paddling, canoeing, boating, and fishing.
Distance – 2 hrs
Sabine National Forest
Sabine National Forest is located east of Houston near the Texas Louisiana border.
The outdoor recreation opportunities in this national forest are dominated by the water sports on Toledo Bend Reservoir.
This massive reservoir is said to be one of the largest lakes in Texas.
Visitors can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, canoeing, paddling, swimming, and even camping by the water.
The forest has numerous hiking and mountain biking trails as well as dedicated horseback trails.
The forest also offers excellent wildlife viewing and is a great fun day trip for the entire family.
Distance – 2 hrs 50 mins
Big Thicket National Preserve
The Big Thicket National Preserve in Southeast Texas is one of the largest forests in the country.
The forest has over 40 miles of hiking trails and is an amazing natural paradise.
Inside the forest you will find creeks, bayous, and a river.
On the hikes you can admire the natural ecosystem and see carnivorous plants such as the pitcher plant and sundew, beautiful bald cypress trees, and towering pines.
Apart from hiking, you can go kayaking or canoeing as well as bird watching in the forest.
Some of the other popular ways to explore Big Thicket National Preserve include biking and horse riding on the Big Sandy Trail.
Distance – 1 hr 45 mins
Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge
Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent day trip if you want to spend time in the nature.
The best way to explore this preserve is through scenic drives on the park roads.
This preserve also has several well maintained boardwalks over the marshes and swamps.
On the trails, you can spot many alligators, songbirds, water birds, and waterfowl.
The refuge also has a butterfly hummingbird garden.
This is an excellent day trip to take the kids and enjoy the outdoors on the Gulf Coast.
Distance – 1 hr 25 mins
Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge
Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge located in Freeport is an excellent place for birding and wildlife watching.
It is also a favorite with bikers, hikers, and wildlife photographers.
Hike the Big Slough Wilderness Area boardwalk trail and spot alligators.
Go on the auto driving tour to spot roseate spoonbills and sandhill cranes.
See the exhibits inside the Discovery Center to learn about local wildlife.
Hunting and fishing are also permitted in the reserve.
Best time to visit is during April when you can watch the migrating birds.
Distance – 1 hr 5 mins
Goose Island State Park
Goose Island State Park is located about three and a half hours away from Houston in Rockport, Texas.
The park is most famous for the Big Tree which is one of the largest live oak trees in the country.
The tree is around 35 ft wide and is over centuries old.
The park is also famous for its nature.
Because of its location on the southern tip of Lamar Peninsula amidst the bays, many bird species and animals call it home.
On a visit you can spot deer, armadillos, rabbits, the endangered whooping cranes, and blue crabs.
Distance – 2 hrs 45 mins
Mustang Island State Park
Combine a beach day with a drive down the coast and some excellent hiking amongst the sand dunes at Mustang Island State Park.
The park has 5 miles of coastline where you can go beachcombing, swimming, or just relax on the beach.
The island is also excellent for bird watching and has many paddling trails.
Distance – 3 hrs 36 mins
Best Small Towns to Visit on a Day Trip from Houston
Pack your car and drive west, the Eastern border of the Texas Hill Country and its amazing small towns beckons you.
Or drive north to the small towns in the Piney Woods region.
Here are some of the best small town day trips from Houston.
Navasota
Navasota makes an excellent day trip from Houston, especially during spring.
You can explore this charming town, visit Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, and even see the Grimes County Courthouse as well as Fanthorp Inn Historic Site which is just 10 mi away in Anderson.
We love seeing the historic homes downtown in Washington Ave and Railroad St.
They have amazing architecture and some are even open for interior tours.
The Horlock Art Gallery and History Museum is also a great place to visit.
Music is also a big attraction in Navasota and the city is must visit for all blues lovers.
Distance – 1 hr 15 mins
Brenham
Time for some ice-cream!
Brenham is a favorite day trip for most Houston area families for one reason: Blue Bell Creamery!
You can go to the creamery in Brenham to see how the ice cream is being made from the observation platform.
And you can eat as many scoops of ice cream as you want for just $1 per scoop.
Our kids love visiting the Creamery.
However a day trip to Brenham is not just about ice cream.
Historic Downtown Brenham is a very pretty place to explore and shop.
Here you will find charming architecture and stunning murals.
You can shop for antiques, souvenirs, and more.
Attractions like the Brenham Heritage Museum are worth a visit.
Apart from Blue Bell and historic downtown, Brenham is also famous for its abundant Texas bluebonnets in the spring.
To see these beauties just drive around the Brenham countryside or visit the Texas Independent Trail through Independence and Chappell Hill.
Distance – 1 hr 10 mins
College Station
College Station is a great vibrant day trip from Houston.
The city is home to Texas A & M University and has a very youthful vibe.
The University campus is also home to the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum.
Here you can see a replica of the oval office and also a part of the Berlin Wall.
Take a stroll through historic downtown Bryan, see the art galleries and museums, and visit Santa’s Wonderland in the holiday season.
Another favorite with our kids is the Aggieland Safari where they can see the wild animals on a drive-through safari and even feed them.
Distance – 1 hr 30 mins
Baytown
Baytown, located to the east of Houston, is a great place to visit for art and culture lovers.
There are several types of public arts, sculptures, and murals in downtown Baytown.
The city even holds an annual arts festival every year.
The most popular attraction of Baytown is definitely the Umbrella Alley.
A canopy of rainbow colored, colorful umbrellas covers this previously unused alley.
Beautiful murals are located on the side walls.
The alley is very beautiful and one of the most Instagrammable places in Texas.
Baytown also has many other attractions.
Spend a day splashing in the water at Pirates Bay Water Park or take the Lynchburg ferry across the Houston ship channel.
At the Baytown Nature Center, you will find miles of hiking trails in tranquil surroundings.
Distance – 25 mins
Texas City
While Texas City is located on the Gulf Coast, it doesn’t have a pretty beach as such.
That’s why we have included it in this list of the best small towns that you can visit on a day trip from Houston.
Our kids love seeing the vintage steam train locomotive in Noble Park.
If you love shopping, then you will love the Tanger Outlets Houston located in Texas City.
Most renowned brands have a store here.
The Texas City Museum is another great place to visit.
Here you can see lots of historical artifacts including civil war era cannon, model trains, and exhibits related to the 1947 Texas City explosion disaster.
Of course no trip to Texas City can be complete without visiting the Texas City Dike.
This fishing pier stretches 5.3 miles in Galveston Bay and is the longest artificial fishing pier in the world.
Reload riding down the dike and watch the fishermen and their boats come in.
You can also spot dolphins and enjoy the beach at the end.
Distance – 45 mins
Rusk
Rusk is a favorite with Houston area families for one reason: its home to the Texas State Railroad.
The rail depot offers scenic train rides on vintage trains.
There are a variety of themed train rides year-round including the Pumpkin Patch Express and the famous Polar Express during holiday season.
The train rides are an amazing day trip from Houston.
Other things to do in the Rusk include walking over the Historic Rusk Footbridge, seeing the exhibits narrating the history of the area at the Heritage Center of Cherokee County, and exploring the charming city on foot.
Distance – 2 hrs 40 mins
Palestine
The most popular train excursion of the Texas State Railroad will take you to the charming town of Palestine.
Here you can see historic landmarks such as the Texas Jail House, the Railroad Heritage Center, and the Museum of East Texas Culture.
Anderson County Courthouse is also located in Palestine and is a beautiful and photogenic building.
Palestine also has many parks including Davey Dogwood Park and Reagan Park where you can enjoy nature.
You can easily combine Rusk, Palestine, and the train ride in one day trip.
During winter, the Palestine Polar Express is our favorite day trips with the kids.
Distance – 2 hrs 30 mins
Beaumont
Beaumont, located to the east of Houston, is an amazing cultural destination.
The most popular attraction here is Spindletop – Gladys City Boomtown Museum.
The museum commemorates the first discovery of oil in Texas at the Spindletop Hill Salt Dome.
Here you can experience life as it was during the time when oil was first discovered in Texas.
Beaumont has many other cool museums including the Fire Museum of Texas, Clifton Steamboat Museum, Texas Energy Museum, and the Beaumont Children’s Museum.
The beautifully landscaped Beaumont Botanical Gardens are great for nature lovers.
Another cool attraction is Gator Country, where you can view several large alligators.
Distance – 1 hr 25 mins
New Braunfels
New Braunfels in the Texas Hill Country makes a great day trip from Houston.
The main attraction here is Gruene Historic District and floating in the Comal River.
The famous Gruene Dance Hall is located in the former ghost town.
The two mile stretch of the Comal River in New Braunfels offers some of the best river tubing in Texas.
The Schlitterbahn Waterpark is also located in New Braunfels and is in great option if you don’t want to float down the river.
Distance – 2 hrs 45 mins
Port Arthur
There are many other things to do in Port Arthur other than the Sea Rim State Park and that’s why we love visiting here on a day trip.
Our favorite is the Museum of the Gulf Coast. Here you can see artifacts ranging from the arts to history and music.
The Pompeiian Villa is a historic home that is open for tours.
Built in the 1900s, the home is beautiful inside out. Sabine Pass Battleground which is the site of an important civil war era battle is also located in Port Arthur.
Distance – 1 hr 20 mins
Victoria
Victoria, Texas is located just under 2 hours from Houston near the Gulf Coast.
It is popular for its charming downtown which is home to many historic structures.
Be sure to admire the Victoria County Courthouse, DeLeon Plaza, and the Pumphouse building which is now home to a restaurant.
Kid-friendly attractions in Victoria, Texas include Museum of the Coastal Bend, Texas Zoo, and the Children’s Discovery Museum.
Best Historic Attractions to visit on a day trip from Houston
There are a variety of historical attractions near Houston which are excellent to visit for native Texans.
They make a great stop for the entire family and provide kids an opportunity to experience Texas history in its original setting.
Washington on the Brazos
Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site is known as the Birthplace of Texas.
It was here that the Texas declaration of independence was signed and the idea of the Republic of Texas was formed in 1836.
Visitors to the historic site can see Independence Hall where the declaration was signed.
Other historic buildings on site include the star of the Republic Museum and the Barrington plantation homestead.
Washington on the Brazos is an excellent place to take kids and introduce them to the history of Texas.
Distance – 1 hr 15 mins
San Jacinto Museum and Monument
San Jacinto Monument, located in La Porte, commemorates the site of the Battle of San Jacinto.
This final and victorious battle in the Texas Revolution led to the formation of the independent Republic of Texas.
The historic site is a must visit for any Texan.
The over 563 ft high towering column is a beautiful architectural structure.
The grounds have a reflecting pool and an amphitheater.
The museum located at the base of the monument has many artifacts dedicated to Texas history.
Visitors can also write to the top of the monument and see amazing views of the Houston Ship Channel.
Distance – 30 mins
Battleship Texas
USSS Texas was commissioned in 1914 and is the only battleship in existence that has fought in both the World Wars.
Today, the historic Battleship Texas is dedicated as a museum ship and is open to visitors for guided tours.
It is located near the San Jacinto Monument.
There are a couple of ways that tourists can experience the ship.
The easiest way is a self-guided tour where you can see the sleeping quarters and learn about life on the ship.
Naval and maritime enthusiasts can also take a 3 and 1/2 hour long hardhat tour which goes into the boiler room, plotting room, and many other areas not accessible on the general tour.
For the ultimate experience you can go on the overnight education program, where you can spend the entire night on the ship and visit areas that are not open to the public such as the gun turret.
Battleship Texas is currently undergoing renovation and hence all tours are stopped at the moment.
Distance – 30 mins
San Antonio Missions and the Alamo
The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, located in San Antonio, is home to four Spanish frontier missions built to spread Christianity.
The 4 missions within the park and the Alamo together are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors can see these five missions on a day trip to San Antonio.
The five missions are Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, Mission Espada, and the Alamo Mission.
While the most popularly visited mission is the Alamo, each of the missions is really beautiful and has something unique for visitors.
Distance – 3 hrs 5 mins
Read: Houston to San Antonio Drive Guide
Sam Houston Memorial Museum
The Sam Houston Memorial Museum is located in Huntsville and makes a perfect day trip from Houston.
Here you can learn about the life of Sam Houston who had a prominent role in the formation of the Republic of Texas and was its first president.
The museum is located within the Sam Houston State University.
This is an excellent place to understand the early history and culture of Texas in the 19th century.
There are plenty of historic buildings on the ground and a variety of informative and interesting exhibits.
Distance – 1 hr 5 mins
Sabine Pass Battleground Historic Site
Located in Jefferson County near Port Arthur, this historic site was home to a significant Civil War battle.
The Confederate army held off a Union attack in September 1863 at Sabine Pass.
This was a key port for the shipping of Confederate supplies and hence was of significant importance in defending Texas.
Visitors to the site can admire a statue of Confederate Lt. Dowling who led the army to victory.
You can also see a scaled model of the civil war era fort and the battleground.
There is a monument dedicated to the Union soldiers who died in the battle.
Distance – 1 hr 35 mins
Best Cities to Visit on a Day Trip from Houston
One caveat: these are not really day trips since there are lots of things to do in these Texan cities.
However, if short on time we have seen these cities on a day trip as well.
I mean, we have once seen both San Antonio and Austin on a single day trip from Houston while showing guests around the state!
You do need to leave early and devote a whole day to make these day trips work.
They also make excellent weekend getaways from Houston.
Dallas
The Dallas metropolitan area makes an excellent day trip from Houston.
Enjoy the museums in downtown Dallas including the 6th-floor museum at Dealey Plaza, the Museum of Art, and the Perot Museum.
If you love nature, then the Dallas Arboretum is a must visit.
The botanical gardens look fantastic year round and have a variety of seasonal attractions such as the pumpkin patch in fall and the colorful azalea gardens in spring.
Distance – 3 hrs 30 mins
Arlington
A day trip to Arlington means a trip to Six Flags over Texas theme park.
This amazing park has a variety of roller coasters for all ages but it’s thrilling rides are most admired by the teens.
It really makes a fun family getaway from Houston.
You can also plan a trip to Arlington without visiting Six Flags.
There are many things to do in Arlington including the amazing river legacy Park and it’s walking trails, the Museum of Art, and football games and concerts at the AT&T Stadium.
You can also see a space themed show at the Planetarium at the University of Texas Arlington.
The international Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame is a quirky attraction for the whole family.
Distance – 3 hrs 50 mins
Fort Worth
In the early days, Fort Worth was an important trading post for cowboys.
Today, that part of the Texan Heritage is preserved at the Fort Worth Stockyards and the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame.
The Fort Worth Stockyards is one of the best attractions in Texas.
From the historic buildings to the clothes selling western outfits, hats, and boots, the Stockyards are a lot of fun.
You can step back in time and order a drink at the salon or see a live rodeo.
Distance – 3 hrs 55 mins
Grapevine
If you’re looking for day trips from Houston during the holiday season, then consider a trip to Grapevine.
The city located north of Dallas is known as the Christmas capital of Texas.
Grapevine is just beautiful to visit during the holiday season when a million lights light up the historic downtown district.
Kids can even ride a North Pole Express to meet Santa, Claus making this a highlight of the holiday season.
Distance – 3 hrs 48 mins
San Antonio
San Antonio is an amazing cultural and historical destination from Houston.
The main attraction of the city is the Alamo.
This historic site has been the rallying point in Texas’s War for Independence from Mexico.
The San Antonio Riverwalk is another amazing place to visit.
Take a stroll and admire the architecture and vibrant nature of the Riverwalk.
Have a meal by the waterside and enjoy a cruise on the river.
Distance – 3 hrs
Austin
The state capital of Texas is just a little over 2 hours away from Houston and can be easily visited on a day trip.
See the beautiful Texas state capitol building, enjoy the campus of University of Texas Austin, and take a dip in the famous Barton Spring Pool.
Enjoy a meal on Rainey Street and take a stroll in Zilker Park before enjoying the city’s famous music scene at night.
Austin is known as the live music capital of the world and you can easily find a band performing in the entertainment districts of 6th Street and Rainey Street.
Distance – 2 hrs 35 mins
Rockport
Rockport, located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, makes an excellent beach getaway.
It is home to the popular Rockport Beach.
Here you can swim in the waters, enjoy fishing, and spot a variety of birds.
But there are many other things to do in Rockport besides the beach.
You can visit the Texas Maritime Museum to know all about oil drilling and pirating off the Gulf Coast.
See the amazing sculpture garden at the Rockport Center for the Arts and enjoy fresh seafood meals in the city.
This is one of the best budget friendly day trips from Houston, Texas.
Distance – 3 hrs
Corpus Christi
Another nice beachy getaway on the Gulf Coast of Texas!
Corpus Christi makes an excellent day trip from Houston for a variety of reasons.
You can see the USS Lexington Museum ship or enjoy the touch pools at the Texas state aquarium.
The drive to the city itself is also a delight as you will pass by smaller coastal fishing towns and fresh fruit stands in the countryside.
The beaches around Corpus Christi are also some of the most beautiful and calm beaches in Texas.
Distance – 3 hrs 13 mins
Lake Charles
Looking for an excellent day trip from Houston across the border in Louisiana?
Then plan a visit to Lake Charles.
This day trip is full of nature, culture, and delicious food.
You can also visit a casino and enjoy gambling in Lake Charles.
And drive the Creole nature trail to enjoy the Cajun foods, culture, and wildlife.
Sport and alligator or an osprey and listen to Zydeco music.
Return downtown to see the famous Mardi Gras museum and the beautiful homes in the Charpentier Historic District.
Distance – 2 hrs 10 mins
Also Read: Houston to New Orleans Drive
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