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Music, History & Nature – Texas-style 

Music, History & Nature – Texas-style 

Austin San Antonio Big Bend National Park
Trip length4-6 days
Route distance570 mi
Stops3
Customize this tripFree account · edit dates, stops & pace

Trip overview

This Texas trip showcases music, culture, history, and scenic beauty – all with a Texas flair! Start by exploring the eclectic cities of Austin and San Antonio, each with thriving food, music, culture, arts, and history scenes. Then, wind your way to the southwestern part of the state to Big Bend National Park in the rugged Chisos Mountains. Let AdventureGenie help you plan an exciting journey through the Lone Star State. 

Who will love this trip
All ages and abilities. You can be as active or relaxed as you prefer in the cities and Big Bend National Park. Choose an activity level that best suits you and your family during this trip. March and April are the most popular months to visit Big Bend, so be warned that the park and its trails may be crowded.

Your route

Route map: Music, History & Nature – Texas-style 
1Austin2San Antonio3Big Bend National Park
1
Stop 1 1-2 day stay

Austin, TX

Austin, TX

Austin is an ideal combination of nature and urban activities. The city has grown tremendously over the last decade and seems to be having its “moment.” Boasting more than 200 parks, unique museums, ample live music, and a famous food and craft beer scene, it truly has offerings for everyone. The Texas capital, known for its slogan "Keep Austin Weird," is a unique stop that sets the tone for the rest of the trip with diverse activities, quirky welcoming locals, and consistently sunny days.

Top things to do

Explore Austin, by checking out some of these popular attractions:

1
Live MusicIs synonymous with Austin. While exploring the town, you’ll hear musicians playing in airports, grocery stores, clubs and nearly everywhere you go – that's why Austin is also known as “Live Music Capital of the World." The Continental Club is one of the oldest and most popular clubs in Austin.
2
Craft Beer & Food SceneA top reason people visit Austin is food and drink. This foodie city is filled with eclectic restaurants featuring Tex-Mex, BBQ, vegan, and more. You will find delicious gourmet food trucks all around the city – a great way to sample local fare without spending too much. Additionally, Austin boasts tons of breweries, wineries, and distilleries.
3
Texas Capitol BuildingTake a tour of this National Historical Monument which is the largest Capitol building in the country. The Capitol is a wonderful example of Renaissance Revival architecture. The Texas Capitol Building lies in the 22-acre Capital Park, surrounded by Texas monuments. Learn about Texas' history by strolling on the Great Walk, which offers views of the Capitol Building and monuments.
4
Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and MuseumIs another top attraction in Austin. The museum contains historical documents and presidential papers from Lyndon B Johnson's decades in politics and government. The library also gives visitors insights into the important issues Johnson faced, like the Civil Rights Movement – and it features a replica of President Johnson’s Oval Office.
5
Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike TrailNamed after President Lyndon B. Johnson’s wife, Lady Bird, this park contains a lake and a ten-mile scenic trail along the Colorado River that is great for biking, hiking, and running. The 464-acre lake is good for non-motorized boating and paddling. Swimming is not allowed.
6
Barton Creek GreenbeltThis 809-acre park with trails, swimming holes, and rock climbing is a great way to spend time outdoors.
7
The University of Texas at AustinTour the state’s premier public university. The main campus is 431-acres in the heart of the city. Check out the Tower, the Perry-Castaneda Library which houses over seven miles of book stacks, and the Blanton Museum of Art.
8
Zilker Metropolitan ParkThis 351-acre urban park, considered Austin’s most-loved park, includes the Zilker Botanical Gardens, the Austin Nature & Science Center, and the Umlauf Sculpture Gardens + Museum.
9
Bullock Texas State History MuseumThis museum tells the story of Texas' history through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Austin, TX activities

SwimmingHikingBikingGolfWatersportsMuseumsArt GalleriesLive MusicWalking ToursBreweries

RV campgrounds near Austin, TX

Austin has a bevy of public and private RV campgrounds and parks within the city and in surrounding areas. You can find options that are more rugged or amenity-packed RV resorts. Let AdventureGenie help you find your ideal campground in Austin!

Next stop: San Antonio
2
Stop 2 1-2 day stay

San Antonio, TX

San Antonio, TX

San Antonio remains one of the top cities to visit in Texas due to its rich history, modern attractions, and outdoor adventure opportunities. It's home to the famed Alamo, the only UNESCO World Heritage Site within the state. You can shop, dine, drink, explore, and learn about San Antonio's history through a visit. Packed with diverse culture, San Antonio is a must-see while road-tripping through Texas.

Top things to do

San Antonio is an eclectic city with plenty to do and see. Below are some of our top choices for your visit:  

1
The AlamoNo visit to San Antonio would be complete without a stop at The Alamo – perhaps the most well-known attraction in the state! The Alamo is where 200 Texans fought for independence for the state during the Texas Revolution. It was here that the phrase "Remember the Alamo!" was coined. You can learn about the importance of this site and its history through exhibits, tours, and a Living History area with demonstrations. This is an excellent stop for families who want a fun, educational activity.
2
Market Square PlazaOffers insight into the Latin culture and heritage in San Antonio. This market square includes local shops which offer authentic Mexican artifacts and goods. Additionally, you can find Mexican restaurants which have been serving locals for years. In the center of the market is an outdoor stage which often features traditional Latin music and dances.
3
San Antonio River WalkThis 15-mile network of scenic paths and waterways winding through the city center is the most visited attraction in San Antonio. Walk or take a river barge tour for a more in-depth dive into San Antonio's history. Top city attractions are found on either side of this waterway.
4
San Antonio Missions National Historical ParkThis UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of four Spanish Colonial missions from the 1700s.
5
Downtown San AntonioIs filled with historic sites and attractions that tell San Antonio’s story. You’ll find cathedral houses, museums, art schools, theatres, public artwork, local shops, and more. Stroll downtown San Antonio to take a break and stretch after driving.
6
SeaWorld San AntonioFor the young and young at heart, plan a visit to SeaWorld San Antonio to see fun aquatic life plus rides, shows, and other attractions.
7
San Antonio ZooSee over 750 species of animals at this wonderful zoo. The giraffe feeding experience is memorable.
8
San Antonio Museum of ArtSAMA is a complex of museums with art and artifacts spanning 5,000 years. SAMA is “renowned for the most comprehensive ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art collection in the southern United States.” It also has a wonderful collection of Latin American art.
9
McNay Museum of ArtThis small but impressive museum has wonderful collections including Impressionism and modern art.

San Antonio, TX activities

SwimmingHikingGolfMuseumsHistoric SitesLive MusicTheatresArt GalleriesBoat ToursBicycle Tours

RV campgrounds near San Antonio, TX

San Antonio area has several RV parks including public campgrounds. Let AdventureGenie help you find the perfect campground near San Antonio!

Next stop: Big Bend National Park
3
Stop 3 1-2 day stay

Big Bend National Park, TX

Big Bend
Big Bend National Park, TX

Big Bend National Park is a breathtaking spot in the southwestern part of Texas, covering more than 80,000 acres. Filled with rugged terrain, jagged cliffs, the Rio Grande River, and the majestic Chisos Mountains, it’s easy to see why this national park is often referred to as Texas' "Gift to the Nation." This is the only U.S. national park that encompasses an entire mountain range. It has more than 150 miles of hiking trails and many other outdoor recreation opportunities.

Top things to do

To explore the breathtaking Chihuahuan Desert and Chisos Mountains in Big Bend National Park, consider some of these popular activities:

1
Ross Maxwell Scenic DriveIs a great way to see some of the historical and geographical features that define Big Bend National Park. This 30-mile route takes you to the Castolon Historic District, Mule Ears Peak, and the Santa Elena Canyon areas. It's a top choice for those who are short on time or those wanting to view some of the park's highlights without hiking.
2
Chisos Basin Visitor CenterOne of two visitor centers in the park (the other is the Panther Basin) offering information on the wildlife and plants in the Chisos Mountains. There is a bookstore, restrooms, and water faucet for filling water bottles. You can also purchase river and backcountry permits here. Entrance fees can be paid at this visitor center.
3
Hot SpringsAre a great way to relax after a day spent hiking and exploring the park. You can find them in the Hot Springs Historic District alongside rock art. The springs are reachable via a 0.5-mile trail.
4
Rio GrandeThe Rio Grande River runs through the park and is one of its top attractions. This river acts as a natural border between Texas and Mexico. It’s accessible via the Santa Elena Canyon Trail. Rafting and kayaking are popular. There are private guided boat tours. The park has information on its website for self-guided tours.
5
StargazingThis dark sky park is a great place to enjoy star gazing since it has the lowest light pollution levels of any national park in the lower 48 states. You can view the stars on a self-guided tour or attend a night sky program.
6
Santa Elena Canyon TrailOne of the most popular hikes in the park, this easy 1.7-mile roundtrip hike leads to the Santa Elena Canyon and has wonderful views of the canyon. When the river water is low, you can wade into the canyon, but be prepared to emerge covered in mud!

Big Bend National Park, TX activities

HikingBikingHorseback RidingFishingStargazingBird WatchingScenic DrivesCanoeing, Kayaking & PaddlingGuided River TripsGuided Ranger Trips

RV campgrounds near Big Bend National Park, TX

Four front country campgrounds are available within the park, three of which allow RVs with limited hook ups and one – Rio Grande Village RV Campground – with full hookups. All require reservations. There are several private campgrounds in nearby Terlingua. Let AdventureGenie help you find your perfect campground near Big Bend National Park!

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