Pick your favorite from these weekend getaways from Houston, then book your retreat.
Houston is a big city with a ton of things to do. But sometimes, you need to get away and explore somewhere new – like the new Great Wolf Lodge Houston. We’ve rounded up some ideas for weekend getaways from Houston within an hour or so drive. And these aren’t just quick escape plans—they’re full-on adventures where you can spend your whole day away from home and still feel like the trip was worth it when you return!
Shop, dine, and experience numerous attractions north and south of Houston. The big city can sometimes feel too crowded and overwhelming to enjoy. So, locals and visitors alike desire to escape the busy city for a weekend.
Did you know Houston is America’s fourth-largest city? And it just so happens it’s in the big state of Texas, too!
It’s time to get in the car for a road trip to a place other than downtown Houston or any part of Houston ….because, well, it’s big. There are many, but we have noted some of the best weekend getaways.
If you only have a day in Houston, you may want to check out Day Trip Ideas Near Houston. Most of these ideas are not too far from the city. There are some places to overlap, but you’ll find shorter trips here.
Weekend Getaways From Houston
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, family time, or going solo, we’ve got some great places to head to for the weekend from Houston. Some weekend getaways from Houston are only half an hour, and some are a three-hour drive. It’s not bad if you can leave early on Friday and return late on Sunday.
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Houston, we have plenty of suggestions for where and what you can do in other Texas cities within driving distance.
Hotel ZaZa In Houston
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or somewhere to go with all the luxury – Hotel Zaza is the place to go. There are two locations in Houston. They offer everything you need for an unforgettable stay – an onsite spa, pool, restaurant, and rooftop bar. You can even bring your dog!
Hotel ZaZa often has specials and discounts on its website, so you can stay there without breaking your bank account, and it’s not far to drive to.
Kemah Boardwalk
Kemah Boardwalk is a great place to visit in Houston. It’s a fun, family-friendly area that offers something for everyone. There are plenty of restaurants and shops along the boardwalk, including a candy store. It’s also on Galveston Bay, so you can rent boats or go fishing to try something different! If you’re into walking or biking, this is an ideal spot because it’s flat terrain with plenty of sidewalks and bike paths along both sides of the bayou that run through town.
Alvin, Texas
Alvin is a city in Brazoria County, Texas, about an hour’s drive south of Houston. There are many things to do in Alvin for the whole family. Froberg Farm is a popular place to go in the fall and to pick your own strawberries. Alvin also has a zoo with rides to get close to the animals—and goat yoga instruction at The Goatel. Get the full scoop at Fun Things To Do In Alvin, TX.
Brazos Bend State Park
Only about a 30-minute drive to Brazos Bend State Park in Needville, Texas, you can float on the Brazos River. The park offers many recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and swimming. You can also enjoy fishing at several ponds within the park. The park has an RV campground with full hookups and tent sites available, and so much more for families.
The Woodlands Resort
The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton is in the heart of The Woodlands, Texas. This area is known for its beautiful scenery, diverse attractions and activities, and friendly people.
The hotel itself boasts a range of amenities, such as:
- outdoor pool with waterslide
- hot tubs and sauna
- fitness center
- golf course
- full-service restaurant
- coffee shop
- lounge & bar
- Free Parking
- Free WiFi
- pet-friendly
There’s an amphitheater where live music performances occur during the summer and family activities such as Kids’ Day Out or Camp Waconda (ages 4-12). There are also hiking trails nearby to enjoy nature while staying here!
Sam Houston National Forest
A beautiful national forest close to Conroe is only a little over an hour’s drive from Houston. If you don’t mind roughing it out, why not try camping at Sam Houston National Forest or Lake Livingston State Park? Both parks offer excellent camping facilities, including rental cabins and tent sites with electricity hookups. There are many nature trails to wander and explore.
Moody Gardens
The Gulf Coast, I’m sure, is a popular destination from Houston. But have you been to Moody Gardens in Galveston? This place has so many options for the whole family, restaurants, attractions, and activities that you’ll never want to leave. It’s the perfect place to take the family for a weekend getaway from Houston. Be sure to visit Pleasure Pier, and if time allows, visit Galveston Island State Park for kayaking, fishing, hiking, bird watching, and more.
Texas Hill Country
There are so many options in the hill country. This area seems to be on many lists I’ve been researching.
It’s best to take a long weekend getaway to the hill country if you can swing it. It’s about a 3-1/2 hour drive from Houston, depending on where in Houston you’re starting and where the hill country you want to go. But all these attractions are great options for scenic views of the hill country.
- The Comal River and the Guadalupe River in New Braunfels
- Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
- Lyndon B. Johnson State Park
- Wine Road 290 – Fredericksburg to Johnson City for wine tasting at all the local wineries
- Wildseed Farms in Fredericksburg
Austin
The live music capital of the world – Austin, TX – can’t be beaten when you want to spring from Houston to listen to music of all kinds and have a little wine. There are many live music venues in Austin.
San Antonio
San Antonio Riverwalk is the famous riverwalk in Texas; there is nothing like it in the state. If you’re looking for a fabulous place to stay on the riverwalk, try the one above – San Antonio Riverwalk Valencia Hotel.
Houston is a great place to live and visit, and we hope these weekend getaways from Houston inspire you to try something new.
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