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Thank God We Didn’t Go Broke Searching For The Top 7 Cheap Weekend Getaways from Houston

cheap-weekend-getaways-houston

Let’s be honest, we all crave those weekend escapes. That feeling of hitting the open road, exploring new places, and recharging our batteries – it’s pure bliss. 

But sometimes, the thought of expensive flights, pricey hotels, and the ever-growing cost of travel can be a real buzzkill.

Here’s the good news: living in Houston has given me the perfect base to discover some incredible weekend getaways that won’t break the bank. 

So, if you’re ready to trade the city life for a dose of adventure without emptying your wallet, here’s my list of cheap weekend getaways from Houston! 

Fredericksburg, TX  

Media Credit: visitfredtx

Website: https://www.visitfredericksburgtx.com/ 

Distance From Houston: 238 miles by car

Travel Time: 4 hours 

Accommodation Rates: Start at $60 

Fredericksburg, Texas, is a charming small town in the Texas Hill Country, known for its German heritage, historical significance, and thriving food and wine scene. 

You can start your weekend by visiting the National Museum of the Pacific War. This free museum is a must-see for history buffs, as it’s dedicated to telling the story of World War II in the Pacific. 

You can then take a stroll down Main Street, where you’ll find quirky boutiques, antiques, and plenty of German restaurants that serve delicious sausages and schnitzels.

And no trip to Fredericksburg would be complete without experiencing the area’s wine scene! You can stop by one of the many local wineries like Grape Creek Vineyards or Invention Vineyards, where you can sample wines for as little as $20. 

For accommodation, you book a room at Wine Country Inn, where you can book a room for as low as $60! It’s a 2-star hotel, but it has an excellent location near many attractions 

Pro Tips: 
Visit in April or May for the best wildflower season, especially along the Willow City Loop.

Plan ahead and book your hotel in advance, as Fredericksburg is a popular weekend destination.

 Colorado State Bend Park 

Media Credit: coloradobendstatepark

Website: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/colorado-bend 

Distance From Houston: 255 miles by car

Travel Time: 4 hours 

Accommodation Rates: Start at $10 per night plus daily entry free of $5 for adults (kids are free) 

For those who enjoy camping, Colorado Bend State Park offers the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. This park sits along the Colorado River and is an ideal spot for outdoor lovers on a budget.

This place is packed with activities! First on the list is Gorman Falls, a must-see 70-foot waterfall that’s fed by crystal-clear springs. The 3-mile hike to the falls is a little challenging, with rocky and uneven terrain, but the view is worth every step.

For a more relaxing experience, take a dip in Spicewood Springs. This area is perfect for a refreshing swim after a day of hiking. The surrounding trail also passes through more pools and small waterfalls—ideal for an easy walk through nature.

One of the best things about Colorado Bend State Park is its affordable camping options! With affordable nightly and daily rates, it’s an easy place to stay on a budget. You can choose primitive camping or stay in the more comfortable drive-up site. 

Pro Tips: Stay safe in the water! While the river and springs are perfect for a swim, always remember that swimming is at your own risk—there are no lifeguards.

Colorado Bend has limited amenities, so pack light but smart! Make sure to bring everything you’ll need, especially water and snacks for your hikes.

San Antonio, TX

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Website: https://www.visitsanantonio.com/ 

Distance From Houston: 197 miles by car

Travel Time: 3 hours 

Accommodation Rates: Start at $40 

For a quick and affordable weekend getaway from Houston, San Antonio is a great choice! It’s home to historic landmarks, gardens, and attractions that will appeal to history buffs and families looking for fun. 

One of the main attractions is the San Antonio RiverWalk. This 15-mile stretch of scenic pathways along the San Antonio River is perfect for a relaxing stroll. You can enjoy a self-guided walking tour or even take a peaceful boat ride! 

And no trip to San Antonio is complete without visiting The Alamo. Known as the site of the historic 1836 battle, it’s now a museum that tells the story of Texas’ fight for independence. Best of all, admission is free!

If you have kids who like animals, the San Antonio Zoo is a fun family destination. With over 8,500 animals, it’s an exciting and educational stop. You can also take a guided tour of the Natural Bridge Caverns, one of Texas’ largest underground attractions. 

Hotels in San Antonio can go as low as $40 per night! If you plan on visiting the zoo, you can try booking a night at Regency Inn! It’s near the area and rooms can go as low as $50. 

Pro Tips: 
Go early to beat the crowds especially at The River Walk and The Alamo because they can get busy especially during weekends. Arriving early means you can enjoy the sites with fewer people.

Many museums in San Antonio offer free admission on certain days! The Witte Museum and San Antonio Museum of Art are both free on Tuesdays. 

Dallas, TX 

Media Credit: visit_dallas 

Website: https://www.visitdallas.com/ 

Distance From Houston: 239 miles by car

Travel Time: 3 hours and 40 minutes 

Accommodation Rates: Start at $55 

Dallas is a perfect choice for a quick and affordable getaway from Houston! Its got history, art, outdoor activities, and delicious food, so it’s an exciting destination that won’t break the bank.

You can start your weekend by immersing yourself in nature at the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. This 66-acre garden showcases seasonal florals that’s perfect for vacation photos! It’s a nice spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Next, you can visit The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza where you can take a look into the life of President John F. Kennedy and the events surrounding his assassination. 

If you want to spend the day like a local, you can visit the Bishop Arts District. This quirky neighborhood has art galleries, boutiques and restaurants. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the laid-back vibe of the city. 

Hotels in Dallas can cost you $50 a night minimum! For an affordable stay without going too far from the downtown area, you can check out Studio 6 Suites, where you can book a room for around $68 a night. 

Pro Tips: 
Dallas has a light rail system (DART), which is a cost-effective way to get around and avoid parking fees.

If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions, consider purchasing a Dallas CityPASS to save on admission fees.

Galveston, TX 

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Website: https://www.visitgalveston.com/ 

Distance From Houston: 51 miles by car

Travel Time: 54 minutes 

Accommodation Rates: Start at $50 

For those who don’t like long drives, Galveston is a great choice for a cheap weekend getaway from Houston. It may be near, but it has plenty of interesting attractions and activities to offer!

You can start your trip with a ride on the Port Bolivar Ferry, a 20-minute journey across the bay. You can keep an eye out for dolphins as you take in the view of the harbor and the Gulf of Mexico! 

Once you’re back on land, you can head to The Strand, the historic district, for a stroll through cobblestone streets lined with 19th-century buildings. It’s a great spot to grab lunch, shop for unique souvenirs, or visit a few of the area’s art galleries and museums.

You can also visit The Seawall for a picturesque place to walk or bike along the coast, with nice views of the beach and ocean. And for history lovers, a visit to the Moody Mansion or the Bishop’s Palace is a must!

You can get a room at Galveston starting at $50 per night. You can check out Super 8 by Wyndham Galveston for an affordable overnight accommodation that’s near the Galveston Fishing Pier. It’s perfect if you have plans to fish! 

Pro Tips: 
Spring and fall are the best seasons for outdoor activities and sightseeing! Still, the weather in Galveston is great year-round.

Always bring sun protection like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, even in cooler months! The sun at the Gulf can be intense.

 Corpus Christi, TX 

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Website: https://www.visitcorpuschristi.com/ 

Distance From Houston: 208 miles by car

Travel Time: 3 hours 

Accommodation Rates: Start at $40

Corpus Christi is another fantastic choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly weekend getaway from Houston. This coastal city has history, nature, and cultural experiences, all without hurting your wallet!

The USS Lexington Museum is one of the city’s top attractions. It’s a WWII-era aircraft carrier that played a significant role in U.S. history. For a small fee, you can tour the 16 decks of the “Blue Ghost,” explore military artifacts and more than 20 vintage aircraft.

You can then head to Padre Island National Seashore, which is just a short drive away. Here, you can enjoy 70 miles of pristine beaches, perfect for relaxing or swimming. If you’re into nature, take a walk along the shore or try some birdwatching.

If you’re a fan of music, you can visit The Selena Museum. Dedicated to the memory of the singer Selena, the museum showcases her stage outfits, awards, and other personal items. 

Accommodation in this city can start at $45, but since you’d want to stay near downtown, you can try booking a room at the Red Roof Inn that’s near Downtown Corpus Christi. Here, you can pay for rooms at $50 a night. Not bad! 

Pro Tips: If you want to try the local food, grab a bite at one of the many seafood restaurants by the beach!

You can go camping at Padre Island, but sites can fill up quickly during peak seasons, so it’s best to make a reservation in advance if possible.

 Austin, TX 

Media Credit: visitaustintx

Website: https://www.austintexas.org/ 

Distance From Houston: 165 miles by car

Travel Time: 2 hours and 40 minutes 

Accommodation Rates: Start at $50 

Austin has a great mix of outdoor fun and historic landmarks making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway from Houston! 

You can head downtown to see the Texas State Capitol. The building is not only a symbol of Texas’ history and pride but also offers free guided tours where you can learn about the state’s legislative history. 

For history lovers, a visit to the LBJ Presidential Library is a must! Located on the University of Texas campus, this library gives you a look at President Lyndon B. Johnson’s life and presidency. 

If you love to see incredible views, you can climb to the top of Mount Bonnell. It’s a short but rewarding hike, and once you’re at the top, the views of the Colorado River are breathtaking. 

A room per night in Austin can cost you at least 50 bucks, so you can book a night  Super 8 by Wyndham near Austin University and the Downtown Area, or Motel 6 Austin if you’d like to stay near the Midtown area. 

Pro Tip: 
Visit the LBJ Presidential Library in the spring to see the beautiful bluebonnet flowers outside. The library itself offers some exhibits, so allow plenty of time to explore.

Visit Austin in January (Free Week) and July (Hot Summer Nights) for free music festivals across the city!
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