The Top Places to See When Driving from Austin, TX to San Antonio, TX

Are you planning a road trip from Austin, TX to San Antonio, TX? You're in for a treat! The drive is approximately 80 miles and takes just under two hours. While it's an easy drive, you won't want to miss out on the stunning scenery and fantastic stops along the way.

We've put together a list of the top places to see on your journey, so settle in, crank up the tunes, and get ready for an epic road trip!

1. Gruene, TX

Gruene, TX, is a charming, small Texas town just 35 miles south of Austin. Founded in the 1800s, it's home to many historic sites and popular tourist attractions. The town's centerpiece is the Gruene Hall, Texas's oldest dance hall, established in 1878. It still hosts live music and events today.

Aside from the dance hall, Gruene, TX, has many shops, art galleries, and antique stores to explore. Be sure to check out the Gruene Market Days, held every third weekend of the month, where vendors sell unique handmade items, crafts, and food.

2. New Braunfels, TX

New Braunfels, TX, is a German-influenced city, located just outside San Antonio. The city is home to the Schlitterbahn Waterpark, the largest water park in the state of Texas. You can spend the day riding waterslides, tubing down the lazy river, or lounging in the pool.

New Braunfels is also home to the Comal River, which flows right through the city. The river provides ample opportunities for tubing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. After a day on the river, you can explore the city's historic downtown district, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and breweries.

3. San Marcos, TX

San Marcos, TX, is a college town located halfway between Austin and San Antonio. The city is home to Texas State University, but it also boasts some fantastic outdoor attractions. The San Marcos River runs through the city and provides opportunities for kayaking, tubing, and snorkeling.

You can also visit the Aquarena Center, a nature preserve that provides kayak tours of the San Marcos River. The center also has an underwater theater, where you can see fish and other aquatic life in their natural habitat.

4. The San Antonio River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk is one of the most popular attractions in the city, and for a good reason. The walkway follows the San Antonio River for 15 miles, and it's lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. You can dine al fresco along the river, take a boat tour, or simply take a leisurely stroll.

If you're up for some sightseeing, you can also take a riverboat tour and learn about the city's history and landmarks. Be sure to check out the famous Alamo, which is also located in San Antonio.

5. Natural Bridge Caverns

Located just 30 minutes north of San Antonio, the Natural Bridge Caverns are a stunning natural wonder that you won't want to miss. The caverns feature ancient rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. You can take a guided tour of the caverns and learn about how they were formed.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also take the Discovery Adventure Tour, which involves crawling, climbing, and rappelling through the caverns. There's also a zipline course above the caverns if you're looking for a high-flying adventure.

Conclusion

The drive from Austin, TX to San Antonio, TX is full of beautiful sights, and there's something for everyone along the way. From small towns with historical landmarks to natural wonders and outdoor adventures, the journey is just as exciting as the destination. So pack up your car, grab some snacks, and hit the road!