Houston offers something for everyone—museums, parks, shopping and dining—along with a lively atmosphere. When you're ready for a change of scenery, a short drive from the city takes you to peaceful parks, bustling boardwalks and other interesting spots. Whether you're visiting or live in Houston and want a quick getaway, there are plenty of nearby destinations to explore.
Below we've highlighted the eight top day trips from Houston, to help you plan a full day or a quick afternoon escape.
1. Kemah Boardwalk
- Address: 215 Kipp Avenue, Kemah, Texas
- Distance from Houston: 32 miles
As a top Houston getaway with kids, Kemah Boardwalk delivers plenty of smiles with its pleasant ambiance and numerous attractions. You may find that this feels a lot like visiting the country fair — but with a better view.
Simply strolling the boardwalk is a joy, although, if you're like most visitors, you'll be tempted by the mouthwatering eats. If you bring kids, don't be surprised if they demand to hit the rides and explore the aquarium. Tiny tots will love hanging out at the playground and splashing around in the plaza's dancing fountains.
2. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
- Address: 2501 Seawall Boulevard, Galveston, Texas
- Distance from Houston: 50 miles
Galveston is worth a trip in its own right, with enough attractions to easily keep you entertained for several days. If you're committed to exploring Houston, however, you can still get a taste of the Galveston experience by meandering along the Pleasure Pier.
This popular destination holds a lot in common with the previously described Kemah Boardwalk, but takes a bit longer to reach. The extra driving time will be well-rewarded, however, as Galveston offers plenty beyond the pier. If you're like many day trippers, however, this is where you'll spend the bulk of your time: gazing at the ocean, enjoying the rides and eating your fill. If you want to extend your day, stop by the nearby historic seaport to check out the 1877 tall ship Elissa — or tour one of the island's mesmerizing mansion museums.
3. Typhoon Texas Waterpark
- Address: 555 Katy Fort Bend Road, Katy, Texas
- Distance from Houston: 29 miles
The beach might seem like a natural destination when you're desperate for a break from the heat — but you'll feel just as refreshed if you head to Typhoon Texas, where thrills are guaranteed. This is a must-visit when vacationing in Houston with older kids or teens — but there's plenty to keep little tykes busy as well.
You're welcome to visit the lazy river if you need to relax, but you'll have just as much fun goofing off with your toddler in the Buckaroo Bayou. Thill-seekers will head straight for The Duelin' Daltons but will also be amazed by the Snake Pit. There are plenty of other appealing attractions in Katy, including excellent shopping and even a construction-inspired theme park.
4. Lake Houston Wilderness Park
- Address: 25840 FM 1485, New Caney, Texas
- Distance from Houston: 32 miles
A popular weekend getaway among Houston locals, Lake Houston Wilderness Park beckons with its abundant camping sites and cozy cabins — but it's also close enough to accommodate a fantastic day trip. Depending on traffic, you could easily reach this gorgeous park in under an hour. Once you arrive, however, you'll feel as if you've entered a different world altogether.
Featuring an idyllic woodland setting, this park is a great hiking destination. The trails are easy, yet secluded, offering wonderful scenery and a chance to gaze at local wildlife. You can learn even more about the park's many critters at the nature center. Playing in the creek is always a blast and, if you go fishing, you can score some impressive catches. You'll return to Houston feeling wonderfully refreshed.
5. Newman's Castle
- Address: 1041 Old Highway 36, Bellville, Texas
- Distance from Houston: 68 miles
Castles are not exactly abundant in the Houston area, but you can explore a fortress like no other if you make the short drive to Bellville. Get ready to travel back in time and explore a Medieval wonderland, complete with a drawbridge, a moat and a perimeter wall.
Constructed by the ambitious Mike Newman, this castle provides a European-inspired escape in the heart of Texas. Self-guided tours are available, but you'll need to schedule your visit in advance. After you've explored the castle, you can head into the charming town of Bellville, where you'll find plenty of additional activities — a historic jail and a charming brewery, to name a few.
6. Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum
- Address: 5550 Jimmy Simmons Boulevard, Beaumont, Texas
- Distance from Houston: 86 miles
Enjoy a taste of boom town life at the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum, which reveals what it was like to live in Texas at the turn of the century — and at the beginning of an iconic oil boom. As a charming replica of Gladys City, this open-air museum includes a post office and a saloon, plus plenty of antiques.
For a decidedly different historic experience, head to the nearby McFaddin-Ward House, which is a lot fancier and just as worthy of a visit. Continue your Beaumont adventure with a stop by the world's largest working fire hydrant or a leisurely evening at one of the city's top breweries.
7. Creole Nature Trail All-American Road
- Address: 3964 Martin Luther King Jr Drive, Port Arthur, Texas — or 2740 Ruth Street, Sulphur, Louisiana
- Distance from Houston: 100+ miles
Interested in crossing state lines and immersing yourself in a decidedly different atmosphere? It is possible to experience the best of Louisiana in a single day — if you're willing to get an early start. Meander along the Creole Nature Trail's All-American Road and discover what Creole culture is all about.
While this route technically begins at Adventure Point (home to many hands-on displays) the best way to begin your journey from Houston is at the state line and just past Walter Umphrey Park. From there, you'll continue along Highway 82 and enjoy spectacular views. Consider stopping at the rustic Mae's Beach to stretch your legs, or discover the wonders of the migratory flight path at the Peveto Woods Sanctuary. You can also enjoy a wetland hike at the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge. This can be a lengthy drive, but you will be amazed by all you discover along the way.
8. Austin's Sixth Street
- Address: 412 East 6th Street, Austin, Texas
- Distance from Houston: 165 miles
There's a lot to love about Houston's nightlife and entertainment scenes, but Austin is also worth a visit. Known for keeping it weird, this decidedly quirky town deserves its own, extended trip — but if you don't anticipate returning to Texas for some time, you can easily justify a day trip to Austin's world-famous Sixth Street.
If you can't spend the night, you can always head over early for a delightful Austin-based brunch. From there, you'll be ready to explore the strangest shops and goofiest attractions in town. Hang out with monsters and mummies at the Museum of the Weird or grab a drink at one of the iconic saloons. A short walk will take you to the glamorous Congress Avenue, which also captures Austin's distinct culture.
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