There’s a lot to enjoy about living in the San Antonio area. The city’s many attractions offer endless appeal: the River Walk, parks, museums, restaurants, nightlife, and so much more. At the same time, San Antonio’s location puts it in proximity to an array of enticing destinations that extend from the Texas Hill Country to the Gulf Coast.
San Antonians get to enjoy the best of both worlds. For those looking to spend a few days away from the city, consider these five weekend getaways near San Antonio. These destinations are all within 175 miles of San Antonio—a manageable distance for a two- or three-day trip out of town.
1. Fredericksburg – 65 miles
Fredericksburg is a Hill Country gem. Here, wineries and wildflowers beckon the weekend traveler—not to mention a multitude of tastings and tours at local wineries! Select from an amazing range of accommodations while you stay in Fredericksburg: chose from bed and breakfasts, quaint cottages, safari cabins, and even yurts.
In nearby Stonewall, step out on the veranda at Becker Vineyards and gaze at the lavender fields. The display is particularly colorful from late May to July. Traverse the Willow City Loop, a route known for its wildflower displays. Hop on the Fredericksburg Trolley to witness splashes of color in the city, or stroll along the walking trails at the 200-acre Wildseed Farms. There, blossoms burst forth from March to October. Finally, there are more than 400 species of flowers at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site.
Think it might be great for a romantic getaway? Travel & Leisure, TripAdvisor, and CNN Travel all concur. The latter listed it among “America’s most romantic small towns.”
2. North Padre Island – 175 miles
San Antonio’s residents are only several hours from the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll find the Padre Island National Seashore south of Corpus Christi. Padre Island is the longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world.
Traverse marshlands along the Grasslands Nature Trail. In season, head to the beach to see baby sea turtles making a determined push toward the ocean. Remember to add the saltwater stamp to your fishing license before you fish for red drum, trout, or catfish.
North Padre Island is the perfect place to take a birding tour with a park ranger: of all the bird species identified in North America, about half have appeared here. That’s more than 380 species, including 16 threatened and endangered species. Sandhill cranes, redhead ducks, and snow geese migrate here every winter. White-tailed hawks, black skimmers, and Eastern meadowlarks are also plentiful.
3. Georgetown – 105 miles
Georgetown’s historic red poppies bloom from late March to May. The community’s love affair with the colorful flowers began during WWI after a soldier sent seeds home from the “Flanders Fields.” Consult the Red Poppy Map for the city’s best displays. You’ll also find poppy-inspired art in the city’s galleries.
Residents take pride in having Texas’ most beautiful town square. Consider a stay at one of the city’s bed and breakfasts nearby. For example, San Gabriel Bed and Breakfast is in a century-old Arts and Crafts mansion.
Lake Georgetown is a reservoir on the north fork of the San Gabriel River. The 1,300-acre lake is only six miles outside of town and it is a great place for almost all water sports. Fish for bass, crappie, and catfish, or enjoy an invigorating hike along any of the 26 miles of hiking trails.
Visit the Inner Space Cavern and enjoy year-round 72-degree comfort. Choose from one of three underground adventures: the Hidden Passages Tour, the Adventure Tour, or the Wild Cave Tour.
4. Elgin – 100 miles
Elgin serves up the small-town Texas of yesteryear. Grab a meal or some tasty treats at Meyer’s Texas BBQ or the Southside Market. October’s Hogeye Festival, which enjoys a three-decade legacy, is famous for its art shows, car shows, street dances, and dessert contests.
In the mood for an unforgettable upscale camping experience? Consider a stay at the 25-acre Green Acres, which offers several unique accommodation options. The Spartan Mansion delivers tiny house living, glamping style. The Airstream Land Yacht and the Live Oak Yurt are also popular among travelers.
In the evening, gather around the fire pit and roast gourmet s’mores. Although this isn’t the Green Acres of 1960s TV fame, you might still find yourself singing the show’s iconic jingle, “Green Acres is the place to be…”
5. Pedernales Falls State Park – 75 miles
Relax and recharge at the 5,212-acre Pedernales Falls State Park, straight north of San Antonio. Here, the Pedernales River flows over giant limestone slabs, where it runs from tranquil to turbulent depending on the season. Reconnect with nature at the bird blind or butterfly garden. Go hiking or mountain biking on the Hill Country trails, which range from a half-mile to six miles long.
Stop at a local winery or olive orchard on the way there or back. Hawk’s Shadow Estate Winery is east of the park near Dripping Springs. Attend a wine tasting and savor a rich European-style red or a dry complex white. The Texas Hill Country Olive Company is also in the Dripping Springs area. Enjoy a walking tour through the orchard and don’t forget to visit the olive mill.
Luxury Apartment Living in San Antonio
San Antonians seeking luxury apartment living need look no further than Sonterra Blue in the vibrant Stone Oak neighborhood. Select from one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartment homes and enjoy an open, spacious feeling thanks to Sonterra Blue’s open floor concepts and nine- to 10-foot ceilings.
Visit our website to browse our complete selection of luxury apartment properties in Texas.
