By BGA Design & Build
One of the joys of living in San Antonio is how easy it is to get away for a weekend. With the Texas Hill Country right at our doorstep and the Gulf Coast just a few hours south, a change of scenery is never far off. As a design and build team that works throughout this region, we know these roads and towns well, and we love pointing people toward the ones most worth the drive. From wine country to rushing rivers to the Gulf shore, the options are as varied as they are close. Here are our favorite weekend trips from San Antonio for a quick and memorable Texas escape.
Key takeaways
- Some of Texas's best getaways sit within a short drive of San Antonio.
- The Hill Country offers wine, rivers, and charming small towns.
- Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather for exploring.
- A weekend away is the perfect reset without a long trip.
Sip and stroll in Fredericksburg
About an hour and a half north of San Antonio, Fredericksburg is the heart of Texas wine country. This charming town blends German heritage with Texan hospitality, and its Main Street is lined with boutiques, galleries, and bakeries. It is an easy favorite for a relaxed, romantic weekend, and the surrounding rolling hills are as scenic as the town itself.
What to do in Fredericksburg
There is plenty to fill a weekend here, from tastings to trails.
- Tour the area's award-winning wineries and picturesque vineyards.
- Explore the shops and German restaurants along Main Street.
- Hike the pink granite dome at nearby Enchanted Rock.
- Visit the town's museums and dip into its German-Texan history.
Cool off in New Braunfels and Gruene
Just half an hour up the highway, New Braunfels is a water lover's paradise built around the Guadalupe and Comal rivers. Right beside it, the tiny district of Gruene offers a step back in time. Together they make a lively, easygoing getaway that works just as well for a group as for a couple.
Ways to spend the weekend
These two neighbors pack in a surprising amount to see and do.
- Float the cool waters of the Comal or Guadalupe on a tubing adventure.
- Visit Gruene Hall, the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas.
- Explore Natural Bridge Caverns or cool off at a local waterpark.
- Catch live country music and a cold drink at an iconic Texas venue.
Escape to Wimberley
Tucked into the Hill Country about an hour and a quarter away, Wimberley is a peaceful village known for natural beauty and artistic charm. Spring-fed swimming holes and a lively arts scene make it a genuinely refreshing stop. It is ideal for anyone craving nature, art, and a slower pace for a day or two.
What makes Wimberley special
This small town rewards visitors who like the outdoors and local character.
- Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Blue Hole Regional Park.
- Take in the panoramic view from the top of Old Baldy.
- Browse galleries and the popular Wimberley Market Days.
- Relax by Cypress Creek and soak up the town's easygoing charm.
Stay close in the Hill Country
Sometimes the best getaway is right here in our own backyard. Boerne and Canyon Lake sit just a short drive from San Antonio and deliver classic Hill Country charm without the long haul. These are the kinds of places we know intimately, since we design and build homes throughout the area.
Why these spots are worth it
Close to home does not mean short on things to do.
- Stroll the shops and cafes along Boerne's Hill Country Mile.
- Walk the trails at the Cibolo Nature Center.
- Spend a day on the water at Canyon Lake.
- Take a scenic Hill Country drive and enjoy the views along the way.
Reach the coast at Port Aransas
When you are ready to trade the hills for the shore, Port Aransas is about three hours south. This laid-back beach town on the Gulf is perfect for sandy days and slow evenings. It is a favorite for a longer weekend by the water when you want a true change of scenery.
How to enjoy the coast
The Gulf Coast offers a completely different kind of weekend.
- Relax on the sandy shores and swim in the Gulf.
- Head out for deep-sea fishing or a bay tour.
- Go bird watching at the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time of year for a weekend trip from San Antonio?
Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather for exploring the Hill Country, with pleasant temperatures and, in spring, beautiful wildflowers. Summer is ideal for the rivers and the coast, though it is hot, so plan for early starts and plenty of shade.
Do I need to book ahead for these getaways?
For popular spots like Fredericksburg and Wimberley's swimming holes, yes, especially on weekends and holidays. Reserving a place to stay and any timed activities a few weeks in advance will save you stress once you arrive, since these destinations fill up quickly in peak season.
Which trip is best for a quick overnight?
Boerne, Canyon Lake, and New Braunfels are all close enough for an easy overnight without much driving at all. They let you unwind quickly and still be home in time for the rest of your weekend.
Reach out to BGA Design & Build
Exploring the Hill Country has a way of making you fall in love with this part of Texas, and there is nothing quite like coming home to a place you love just as much. Whether you dream of a custom home in Boerne, Canyon Lake, Fredericksburg, or Fair Oaks Ranch, we would be honored to help you design and build it from the ground up.