Hit the Road: 13 Road Trip Ideas for Summer Fun

While gas prices are higher than we’d like, piling into the car for a getaway is still a great way to up your summer fun. If you need road trip ideas or are looking for somewhere new to visit, look no further. Whether you want to explore another city for a weekend or just take a day trip, we’ve got 13 road trip ideas close to San Antonio to up your summer road trip game.

And if you’re wondering how to keep your gas costs low, stick to the speed limit, make sure your tires are inflated properly, and be sure to check out gas apps like Gas Buddy. And of course, don’t forget that if you’re a Costco or Sam’s Club member, you can always gas up at any of their locations.

Explore Austin and enjoy a “capitol” time.

Get away to Houston for dinosaurs, sharks, and NASA fun.

dinosaur skeletons
Dinosaurs at the Houston Museum of Natural Science

Go north to New Braunfels for water fun and more.

Visit sea turtles at Padre Island National Seashore.

Go batty with 20 million bats—without ever leaving San Antonio.

a young boy looking at a ribbon of bats in the sky
A ribbon of bats headed off to find dinner

Get a new view underwater in glass bottom boats in San Marcos.

Check out some charming Hill Country towns.

Hit these beaches close to San Antonio.

Enjoy a getaway without going far away.

See dinosaurs close to home.

Visit unique destinations in the Lone Star State.

See dolphins, sharks, and more at Texas State Aquarium.

young girl looking at a dolphin in an aquarium
Watching dolphins swim

Have some fun off the beaten path.

Dawn
An Army brat who came to Texas for college and ultimately managed to make the Lone Star State her permanent home, Dawn became a mom “AMA” (advanced maternal age), giving her the opportunity to use a stroller vs. a walker as she navigates the world of motherhood. Her growing up way too fast native Texan loves all things Star Wars, Legos, dinosaurs and keeping his parents on their toes. When she’s not busy parenting the original strong-willed child, Dawn runs Tale to Tell Communications, a San Antonio-based PR and marketing agency. An award-winning writer, Dawn also contributes to San Antonio Woman, Rio Magazine and Texas Lifestyle Magazine. She and her family enjoy exploring all that San Antonio has to offer, going on adventures and playing tourist together as much as possible. Favorite Restaurant: Clementine Favorite Landmark: The beauty of the River Walk, especially La Villita Favorite San Antonio Tradition: Celebrating anything and everything with color, music and food