If you live in Dallas, these top vacation spots in Texas make for great weekend getaways not just because they offer unique attractions but also because they all are a three-hour drive or less from Dallas. From shopping spots to outdoor recreation to top-notch museums, say no to another boring weekend. Discover your new favorite place by visiting these awesome locations outside of Dallas.
Waco, Texas
Waco makes for a popular weekend getaway for Dallas residents since it’s only about 95 miles from the city, and of course, it offers some great sightseeing options. The city itself lies on the Brazos River, making it quite picturesque and full of open space. History buffs will enjoy the number of museums, such as the Mayborn Museum Complex and Waco’s Mammoth Site. For shoppers and fans of HGTV’s Fixer Upper, head to Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Market, a shopping experience with an eclectic mix of modern and vintage home goods. As if this town couldn’t get any cooler, it has a great zoo that will make both kids and adults happy.
Fort Worth, Texas
Every Texan knows that Dallas and Fort Worth are friendly neighbors, and many may clump them together as one mega-city. However Fort Worth is interesting enough to stand on its own with its list of attractions, therefore Dallas residents shouldn’t knock out the idea of Fort Worth as a great weekend getaway. Nicknamed as “Cowtown,” Fort Worth does have some cowboy-ish influence. Therefore, head to Fort Worth to grab yourself a pair of custom cowboy or cowgirl boots while also enjoying the number of museums and excellent restaurants here.
Granbury, Texas
Head 80 miles west of Dallas and you will find yourself in Granbury, Texas. This charming Texas town is an underrated treasure and the spot of your next weekend getaway. Enjoy cute boutique shopping along with fine restaurants and relaxing bed-and-breakfasts. Don’t miss out on a performance at the Granbury Opera House, which was originally built in 1886 and is rumored to be haunted. For those looking for a cold brew or a great glass of wine, hit up Revolver Brewery for Texas-made craft beer or visit Barking Rocks Winery for wine made of Texas grapes.
Palestine, Texas
For a great weekend getaway, especially during the spring and autumn months, take a one hour trip to Palestine, Texas. Pronounced “pal-uh-steen,” this Texas town has beautiful scenery, remarkable architecture, and fun shops and restaurants. You won’t be able to miss the roads lined with oak, magnolia, and cypress trees. The azaleas and dogwoods brighten up the city when they are in full bloom in spring. Walk the famous dogwood trails or visit during the Dogwood Trails Festival.
Possum Kingdom State Park
Load up a great road trip playlist, and make sure to include “Possum Kingdom” by The Toadies, as you drive the two-and-a-half-hour trip to Possum Kingdom State Park. The main attraction at the Possum Kingdom is the massive lake, which makes for a great spot for a summer getaway. Swim, scuba dive, hike, or camp at this North Texas treasure.
Mineral Wells, Texas
Only a 1.5-hour drive away from Dallas is the town of Mineral Wells. This town is known for its natural spring water that allegedly has healing properties. Now you don’t have to believe the legend, or the tales of the town’s haunted and abandoned hotel known as The Baker Hotel, to enjoy a great weekend getaway here. The Crazy Water Bath House is still an awesome spot to soak in this “magic” water as well as indulge in a spa treatment or two. If you’re more into an outdoor escape, explore the state park, which highlights more of Texas’ natural beauty.
Tyler, Texas
Two hours east of Dallas is the quaint town of Tyler. Known as the “Rose Capital of America,” about 20 percent of the country’s rose bushes come from Tyler. Therefore your first stop on a weekend getaway here should be the Tyler Rose Garden, which features over 500 different rose varieties. However, roses aren’t the only things that make this city great. Tyler State Park is a great spot for camping and outdoor recreation. Don’t leave Tyler without visiting Kiepersol, a local winery, distillery, restaurant, and B&B.
Muenster, Texas
Head to this small German town north of Dallas for a relaxing weekend getaway. Fishermen will enjoy Muenster Lake and shoppers will have plenty to do at Muenster Antique Mall. However, all visitors should indulge in the incredible German sausages, that are smoked and stuffed on-site, at Fischer’s Meat Market.
Broken Bow, Oklahoma
We all know Texas is the best, but take a chance for your next weekend getaway by heading to Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Only three hours from Dallas, Broken Bow is an outdoor paradise. Ride ATVs, take a relaxing canoe ride, explore the area on horseback or fish, and golf to your heart’s desire.
Lake Texoma, Texas
Lake Texoma, located on the Texas and Oklahoma border, is the perfect spot to cool off this summer. Dallas residents only need to drive 1.5 hours north of the city to locate this gem. Lake Texoma is perfect for numerous outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, camping, golfing, and horseback riding. Known as the “Striper Capital of the World,” Lake Texoma is full of striper fish and 79 other fish species, making this a great place for a fishing trip.
