Have you heard the saying, “How do you know if someone’s from Texas? Don’t worry they’ll tell you!” Well, it’s true and for good reason. If you’ve visited Texas for any length of time you know there’s a lot to brag about — from the brisket to the bluebonnets and so much more. Many Texans stay in-state for vacations because there’s so much to see nearby without hopping on a plane. Just jump in the car and head two hours outside any major city and you’ll find historic, postcard-worthy towns filled with charm and lots of antiques. The antiques really are the best part. If you have plans to explore Texas anytime soon, you won’t regret making room for a day trip to any of these small towns. Road trip staples include a Buc-ee’s stop, BBQ, and a Texas country playlist.

Round Top

I’ve been visiting Round Top long before I moved to Texas, it’s my favorite not-so-little town to road trip to. Antique Week and The Junk Gypsy gals really put Round Top on the map and there are several rustic-chic lodging options popping up. Everybody needs to experience Round Top during one of the spring or fall antique shows, but it’s really beautiful anytime during bluebonnet season.

Hotels

The Wander Inn
Round Top Inn
The Frenchie

Activities

Antique Week
Humble Donkey Art
Workshops at The Vintage Round Top

Food

Royer’s Pie Haven
Teague’s Tavern (my favorite! You have to get the bacon jam burger)
Mandito’s
Prost Wine Bar
The Garden Co.

Waco

Everybody comes to Waco to experience the Magnolia empire Chip and Joanna Gaines have built and they keep adding more every year! I own an Airbnb in Waco and have had so many great guests stay and rave about their Magnolia weekends. I’m drinking the Kool-Aid and actually love what Magnolia has brought to Waco and their restaurant is actually pretty dang good. There’s more to see in Waco than just Magnolia so consider other activities for your next visit.

Activities

All things Magnolia
Live music at The Backyard
Baylor football games
BSR Surf Park
Waco Zoo
Balcones Distillery Tour and Tasting

Dining

Milo’s All Day
Magnolia Table
Nightlight Donuts
Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits
Common Grounds Coffee

Smithville

If you’ve seen “Hope Floats” then you’ve heard of this small town southeast of Austin. There’s not much to it, but it’s perfect for a day trip filled with antique shopping, relaxing on a front porch, and a good southern dinner.

Hotels

The Katy House

Activities

Shopping on Main Street

Dining

Honey’s
Back Door Cafe
Your Mom’s

Bastrop

This cute little town has grown so much since I moved to Texas in 2017. If you’re interested in art, this is a great place to spend the afternoon browsing galleries followed by lunch at Neighbor’s overlooking the river.

Hotels