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AI-MarcoPolo
27 Feb 2026
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10 best places for weekend getaways in Southern Texas

Weekend Getaways in Southern Texas: Itinerary Overview

This Southern Texas weekend itinerary blends history, nature, and coastlines into a flexible route you can tailor to your pace. Start in San Antonio with iconic culture: walk the San Antonio River Walk for scenic city views, then visit The Alamo to connect with Texas history. Continue with a deeper, quieter experience at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (Mission San José), where preserved Spanish colonial architecture and interpretation bring the region’s early communities to life. For a change of scenery, head to Natural Bridge Caverns for a guided underground adventure among towering formations and cool cave air.

From there, aim for the Gulf Coast. Choose a beach-focused escape at Padre Island National Seashore for wide, undeveloped sands and wildlife viewing, or South Padre Island Beach for a livelier seaside weekend with swimming and water activities. In Corpus Christi, tour the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay for hands-on naval history and panoramic harbor views. Nearby Port Aransas Beach offers an easygoing coastal town vibe, ideal for sunrise walks and relaxed downtime. If you prefer a variety of indoor and outdoor attractions, Moody Gardens in Galveston combines aquarium and rainforest experiences in one stop. Round out the trip with a meaningful detour to Palo Alto Battlefield near Brownsville for open landscapes, short trails, and an important window into borderlands history.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    San Antonio River Walk (Paseo del Río)

    A scenic network of pedestrian paths along the San Antonio River lined with bridges, public art, and lush landscaping—great for an easygoing weekend stroll, river-level city views, boat rides, and quick access to downtown attractions without needing a car.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    The Alamo

    One of the most significant historic sites in Texas, offering a compact but powerful look at early Texas history through the mission complex and exhibits—an essential stop for understanding San Antonio’s cultural identity and the events that shaped the region.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (Mission San José)

    A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring remarkably preserved Spanish colonial architecture, a peaceful grounds for walking and photography, and interpretive exhibits that explain mission life and the area’s early communities—often less crowded and more immersive than central downtown.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Natural Bridge Caverns

    A dramatic underground cave system with massive chambers, stalactites and stalagmites, and well-run guided routes—ideal for a weekend adventure, a break from Texas heat, and memorable geology-focused sightseeing.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Padre Island National Seashore

    A protected stretch of barrier island offering wide, undeveloped beaches, dunes, and wildlife viewing (including seasonal sea turtle activity)—great for uncrowded beach time, nature photography, fishing, and stargazing far from city lights.
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  • Trip Point Pin6

    South Padre Island Beach

    A classic Gulf Coast beach getaway with soft sand, warm-water swimming in season, and plenty of outdoor fun like beach walks, dolphin-spotting cruises, and water sports—an easy choice when you want a lively, resort-style weekend by the sea.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    USS Lexington Museum on the Bay (Corpus Christi)

    A chance to explore a historic WWII aircraft carrier with flight deck views, onboard exhibits, and restored aircraft—engaging for both history buffs and families, and a uniquely hands-on attraction right on the water.
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  • Trip Point Pin8

    Port Aransas Beach

    A laid-back beach town with a long sandy shoreline, great sunrise/sunset walks, and easy access to boating and fishing—perfect for a relaxed weekend that mixes beach time with small-coastal-town vibes.
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  • Trip Point Pin9

    Moody Gardens (Galveston)

    A multi-attraction complex known for its themed pyramids, including a rainforest and aquarium experience—good for an all-in-one day of wildlife, exhibits, and indoor/outdoor activities, especially if weather at the coast is unpredictable.
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  • Trip Point Pin10

    Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park (Brownsville)

    A significant historic site preserving the location of the first major battle of the U.S.-Mexican War, with open prairie landscapes, walking trails, and interpretive exhibits—great for understanding South Texas border history while enjoying a quiet, uncrowded outdoor setting.
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Restaurants

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    2M Smokehouse (San Antonio)

    4.4
    $$$$

    2M Smokehouse (San Antonio)

    Frequently cited by Eater as a top San Antonio BBQ stop and consistently praised on Reddit for standout brisket and house-made sides—an essential meal if you’re doing the city + Hill Country portion of the trip.
    4.4
    $$$$
    Picture for 2M Smokehouse (San Antonio)
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    Curry Boys BBQ (San Antonio)

    4.8
    $$$$

    Curry Boys BBQ (San Antonio)

    An Eater favorite that also comes up on Reddit for its creative Thai-curry-meets-Texas-BBQ mashup—great when you want something memorable beyond standard smokehouse plates.
    4.8
    $$$$
    Picture for Curry Boys BBQ (San Antonio)
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    Gaido's (Galveston)

    4.4
    $$$$

    Gaido's (Galveston)

    A long-running Galveston institution recommended in Eater coverage and often suggested on Reddit for a classic Gulf seafood dinner with historic, special-occasion vibes.
    4.4
    $$$$
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    Vera's Backyard Bar-B-Que (Brownsville)

    4.5
    $$$$

    Vera's Backyard Bar-B-Que (Brownsville)

    Well-known in Eater’s Texas BBQ discussions and regularly mentioned on Reddit for its traditional barbacoa—worth the detour if you’re exploring the Rio Grande Valley and want a culturally rooted specialty.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    Ceviche Ceviche (South Padre Island)

    4.7
    $$$$

    Ceviche Ceviche (South Padre Island)

    Often recommended by Reddit travelers for fresh, bright coastal seafood and a casual beach-day meal; a strong pick when you’re prioritizing Gulf flavors over formal dining.
    4.7
    $$$$
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Hotels

  • Hotel Icon

    Hotel Emma (San Antonio)

    Hotel Emma (San Antonio)

    A splurge-worthy stay in the Pearl District; it’s commonly featured as a top-rated option on Hotels.com for its design-forward rooms and walkable access to bars, shops, and the River Walk area (verify current ratings/dates in the app).
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    Omni La Mansión del Rio (San Antonio)

    4.4

    Omni La Mansión del Rio (San Antonio)

    A classic River Walk hotel that’s often highlighted on Hotels.com for location—easy access to downtown sights like the River Walk and The Alamo without needing to drive (check current guest scores/availability).
    4.4
    Picture for Omni La Mansión del Rio (San Antonio)
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    JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa (San Antonio area)

    4.5

    JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa (San Antonio area)

    A resort-style option that’s frequently listed on Hotels.com for a weekend ‘getaway’ feel—pools, spa, and a quieter Hill Country setting while still being within driving range of key attractions (confirm current amenities/seasonal closures).
    4.5
    Picture for JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa (San Antonio area)
  • Hotel Icon

    Hotel Galvez & Spa, a Wyndham Grand Hotel (Galveston)

    4.3

    Hotel Galvez & Spa, a Wyndham Grand Hotel (Galveston)

    An iconic historic beachfront hotel that Hotels.com travelers often choose for classic Galveston atmosphere and a prime Seawall location (double-check current renovation status and guest ratings).
    4.3
    Picture for Hotel Galvez & Spa, a Wyndham Grand Hotel (Galveston)
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    Isla Grand Beach Resort (South Padre Island)

    4.1

    Isla Grand Beach Resort (South Padre Island)

    A popular Hotels.com pick for a full beach-resort setup (beach access, pools, and on-site amenities), convenient for maximizing South Padre Island time on a short weekend (verify current room conditions and seasonal events).
    4.1
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    World Ballet Company: Swan Lake

    World Ballet Company: Swan Lake

    The World's MOST Iconic Ballet - Live on Stage! The legendary tale of Swan Lake takes flight in a breathtaking production from World Ballet Company, as fate and magic entwine in a timeless battle between good and evil. Featuring a cast of 50 internat...
    Map IconSelena Auditorium in Corpus Christi (28.04 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
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  • Event Icon

    Whose Live Anyway?

    Whose Live Anyway?

    The event will take place at Selena Auditorium in Corpus Christi.
    Map IconSelena Auditorium in Corpus Christi (28.04 mi)
    Calendar Icon14 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Whose Live Anyway?
  • Event Icon

    Rene Vaca - 2026 Tour

    Rene Vaca - 2026 Tour

    The event will take place at Selena Auditorium in Corpus Christi.
    Map IconSelena Auditorium in Corpus Christi (28.04 mi)
    Calendar Icon15 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
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  • Event Icon

    Jennifer Pena: El Camino Tour 2025

    Jennifer Pena: El Camino Tour 2025

    Originally scheduled for October 17, 2025. Previously purchased tickets will be honored for the new date.
    Map IconSelena Auditorium in Corpus Christi (28.04 mi)
    Calendar Icon21 Mar 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
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  • Event Icon

    Bailey Zimmerman: Different Night Same Rodeo Tour 2026

    Bailey Zimmerman: Different Night Same Rodeo Tour 2026

    The event will take place at Hilliard Center Arena in Corpus Christi.
    Map IconHilliard Center Arena in Corpus Christi (28.04 mi)
    Calendar Icon5 Apr 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Bailey Zimmerman: Different Night Same Rodeo Tour 2026
  • Event Icon

    Be Like Blippi Tour!

    Be Like Blippi Tour!

    Blippi is coming to your hometown in the all-new Be Like Blippi Tour! Get ready to see the world more curiously as you move like, play like, and explore just like Blippi! Join Blippi and Meekah. live on stage in a high-energy live show packed with mu...
    Map IconSelena Auditorium in Corpus Christi (28.04 mi)
    Calendar Icon14 Apr 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Be Like Blippi Tour!
  • Event Icon

    Be Like Blippi Tour! - Photo Experience

    Be Like Blippi Tour! - Photo Experience

    Meet Blippi ON STAGE and have the opportunity to take your photo with Blippi in this one-of-a-kind Photo Experience! You'll also receive a souvenir tour lanyard with a Be Like Blippi Tour Pass to commemorate the day. Don't miss your chance to create ...
    Map IconSelena Auditorium in Corpus Christi (28.04 mi)
    Calendar Icon14 Apr 2026
    Website IconVisit Website
    Picture for Be Like Blippi Tour! - Photo Experience

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Trying to find a town in Texas for a weekend away. We will get an Airbnb. Trying to find somewhere we haven't explored yet but that is interesting

    Weekend away spot?

    Trying to find a town in Texas for a weekend away. We will get an Airbnb. Trying to find somewhere we haven't explored yet but that is interesting

    /r/texas
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  • Reddit Icon

    Went to Tulsa for a weekend - about the same distance as here to Austin. Eastern Oklahoma was pretty green despite the incoming storm and theres a surprising amount of art, hi...

    What are some day/weekend trip ideas from DFW?

    Went to Tulsa for a weekend - about the same distance as here to Austin. Eastern Oklahoma was pretty green despite the incoming storm and theres a surprising amount of art, hi...

    /r/Dallas
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    I saw giraffes fighting at fossil rim once. It was so cool More replies ... Marble Falls, Dripping Springs, Perdnales, Canyon Lake, Wimberley, Enchanted Rock, Greune, Comal Ri...

    Weekend trip ideas?

    I saw giraffes fighting at fossil rim once. It was so cool More replies ... Marble Falls, Dripping Springs, Perdnales, Canyon Lake, Wimberley, Enchanted Rock, Greune, Comal Ri...

    /r/Dallas
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Suggestions for a 2-3 day weekend trip FROM Houston? Preferably places with some nice scenery/nature. Been to Galveston, San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, Nacogdoches countless tim...

    Suggestions for a 2-3 day weekend trip FROM Houston?

    Suggestions for a 2-3 day weekend trip FROM Houston? Preferably places with some nice scenery/nature. Been to Galveston, San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, Nacogdoches countless tim...

    /r/houston
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Austin, TX is a 2.5 hr drive. Paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake. Eat some BBQ (Terry Blacks, Franklin's, La Barbecue). Hike the Greenbelt or swim at Barton Springs Pool.

    Good overnight or weekend trips?

    Austin, TX is a 2.5 hr drive. Paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake. Eat some BBQ (Terry Blacks, Franklin's, La Barbecue). Hike the Greenbelt or swim at Barton Springs Pool.

    /r/houston
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Looking for road trips from San Antonio for a long weekend ... little hidden gems ... For everything you want to see, do, eat, and buy in the Alamo City, and places you can dr...

    Looking for fun family summer road trip

    Looking for road trips from San Antonio for a long weekend ... little hidden gems ... For everything you want to see, do, eat, and buy in the Alamo City, and places you can dr...

    /r/texas
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  • Reddit Icon

    Hi! Im planning on a little weekend getaway and I would like to take a drive some where in Texas! I currently live in Dallas and I just recently

    Perfect city for a weekend trip in Texas?

    Hi! Im planning on a little weekend getaway and I would like to take a drive some where in Texas! I currently live in Dallas and I just recently

    /r/texas
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    We are in Dallas, so a trip to Ft Worth is a treat. Go to the zoo, the science museum, attend a show at Bass Hall, walk along the Trinity Riverfront, and eat at Joe T.s. If yo...

    Weekend trips from Dallas

    We are in Dallas, so a trip to Ft Worth is a treat. Go to the zoo, the science museum, attend a show at Bass Hall, walk along the Trinity Riverfront, and eat at Joe T.s. If yo...

    /r/Dallas
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    If you are good with southern OK, Turner Falls. ... It's not what it used to be. ... Yeah I went there a few years ago and it was kind of depressing. ... Broken Bow Lake/...

    What are the best weekend trips around Dallas?

    If you are good with southern OK, Turner Falls. ... It's not what it used to be. ... Yeah I went there a few years ago and it was kind of depressing. ... Broken Bow Lake/...

    /r/texas
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    84 votes, 104 comments. 460K subscribers in the Dallas community. /r/Dallas is a home for discussion and content related to the Dallas/Fort Worth

    Where is your favorite short getaway destination from DFW??

    84 votes, 104 comments. 460K subscribers in the Dallas community. /r/Dallas is a home for discussion and content related to the Dallas/Fort Worth

    /r/Dallas
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Consider heading to Wimberley, Texas. It's a charming town less than two hours from Austin, known for its picturesque scenery, art galleries, and the lovely Blue Hole Regional...

    Where is a good place to get away that isnt too far from Austin?

    Consider heading to Wimberley, Texas. It's a charming town less than two hours from Austin, known for its picturesque scenery, art galleries, and the lovely Blue Hole Regional...

    /r/Austin
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  • Reddit Icon

    Think like kings Hawaiian but instead of pineapple juice to make it sweet theres just a fuxk ton of sugar. But man they are great for breakfast and another unique Texas treat....

    Texas Road trip. Looking for those hidden gems.

    Think like kings Hawaiian but instead of pineapple juice to make it sweet theres just a fuxk ton of sugar. But man they are great for breakfast and another unique Texas treat....

    /r/texas
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Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Bob Wills - San Antonio Rose

    Bob Wills - San Antonio Rose

    A Texas classic that fits perfectly for rolling into San Antonio and soaking up the city’s old-school charm.
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    George Strait - Amarillo By Morning

    George Strait - Amarillo By Morning

    Smooth, open-road country for long stretches of highway between towns and the coast.
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    Khruangbin - Texas Sun

    Khruangbin - Texas Sun

    Laid-back groove with warm desert-to-coast vibes—great for late-afternoon drives and golden-hour views.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Robert Earl Keen - Corpus Christi Bay

    Robert Earl Keen - Corpus Christi Bay

    A direct nod to the Coastal Bend with an easygoing feel that matches beach-town pacing.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Jerry Jeff Walker - London Homesick Blues

    Jerry Jeff Walker - London Homesick Blues

    An upbeat Texas anthem that’s ideal for kicking off a weekend getaway with energy and humor.
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    George Strait - All My Ex's Live In Texas

    George Strait - All My Ex's Live In Texas

    Playful, sing-along country that keeps the mood light while you cruise between stops.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Ernest Tubb - Waltz Across Texas

    Ernest Tubb - Waltz Across Texas

    Classic, timeless storytelling—nice for quiet moments like early mornings on the River Walk.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Willie Nelson - Blue Eyes Crying In the Rain

    Willie Nelson - Blue Eyes Crying In the Rain

    Gentle and reflective, perfect for sunset beach walks or a calm night drive back to your stay.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Alabama - If You're Gonna Play in Texas (You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band)

    Alabama - If You're Gonna Play in Texas (You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band)

    High-spirited road-trip fuel that matches the fun, festival-like energy of coastal weekends.
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    ZZ Top - La Grange

    ZZ Top - La Grange

    Gritty Texas rock that pairs well with big-sky highways and a little extra swagger on the drive.
    Listen on Spotify
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