5 Best {Escapes for the Day}
Day Destinations throughout the Hill Country
Words by Alison Bryce Photos by Brandon Buckley and Alison Bryce
Living in Austin has more perks than just what is inside city limits. Its proximity to other interesting towns makes for easy access to a variety of places to escape for a day-cation.
Johnson City
Full of history and places to explore, Johnson City is located an hour’s drive west of Austin. Step back in time at the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park and explore the house where the 36th president grew up. For an added bonus, ask a park ranger for a tour. Be sure to add a visit to Pedernales Falls State Park. With the clear water and 5,212 acres to explore, Pedernales is a wonderful place to spend time. If visiting this historic gem during the holidays, be sure to stay until sundown to experience the annual Lights Spectacular. Stroll by foot or horse drawn carriage throughout downtown and enjoy the buildings and trees covered in colorful and sparkling lights.
Bastrop
For a day outside, drive to Bastrop State Park and enjoy trails ranging in difficulty. Regrowth from the 2011 and 2015 fires is visible all around, and there are plenty of spots neither fire touched. The park connects to Buescher State Park with a scenic, 12-mile road which is perfect for a slow drive with the windows down and the radio on. Breathe in the sweet scent of pine and stop on the side of the road for photo opportunities. When it’s meal time, head over to Maxine’s for some home cooking.Â
Canyon Lake
Is the water calling? Canyon Lake not only brings the beauty of the Hill Country but also the joy of being on the water. Stop at Granny D’s for breakfast or lunch then head to the water. Canyon Lake Marina is a good place to rent water equipment. See the wonders created by the historic 2002 flood by taking a tour through the Canyon Lake Gorge. Not only learn about the flood that created the 64-acre gorge, but explore dinosaur tracks and perfectly preserved fossils. Canyon Lake is a relaxing weekend escape, but being a small town, some of the local establishments are closed Sundays.
Waco
Head to Waco to view all the hidden gems and history the city has to offer. For a day full of fun, start with a stop to the Dr Pepper Museum and learn how the brand got its roots. Explore the 300 species of animals in Waco’s 52-acre Cameron Park Zoo. Want to try some whisky? Balcones Distilling offers a spacious tasting area to sample different whiskies. Or if you are a history buff, don’t miss the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, the official historical center of this historical law enforcement agency. Before heading home, stop by Cafe Homestead for a meal. The menu at this local favorite is full of traditional Texas, Mediterranean, and specialty cuisines so there is a dish for everyone.
Buda
Not far from home, Buda may be the perfect day destination. Downtown Buda offers a variety of shops and restaurants sure to make you feel miles from city life. Walk through local shops such as Thatcher and Red Door along Main Street or step back into the 1940’s by getting a drink and snack at Buda Soda Fountain. Finish the day with a walk through Historic Stagecoach Park and see the McElroy-Severn Stagecoach House.
