A mini road trip from Houston to Fredericksburg isn’t for the faint of heart. It takes approximately four hours to arrive at Fredericksburg, and that’s without taking a break along the way. Driving fatigue is real and it could drive any adult to boredom.
But! Fredericksburg is a perfect weekend getaway. The small Texas Hill Country town offers many opportunities for boutique shopping in its historic Main Street and wine and spirit tasting rooms you can chase with German-inspired dishes. You can even take your Hill Country experience further by staying at one of our Cozi Vacation Rentals.
And, what if we told you your Houston to Fredericksburg mini-road trip doesn’t have to be boring? In this guide, you’ll find the different routes available, must-stop visits to consider, and tips to make your journey to Fredericksburg much more enjoyable.
Planning Your Houston to Fredericksburg Round Trip
Before packing up your car, you’ll need to consider which route you wish to take toward Fredericksburg as both pass you near two main Texas cities, the capital city of Austin and San Antonio.
The travel time for both routes is similar, so take into consideration any potential tolls, traffic delays, accidents, and places to stop, which can add time to your road trip. The driving time is just under four hours.
Fredericksburg via Austin
If you decide to arrive in Fredericksburg via Austin, just follow the I-10 W out of Houston and merge into US-290 W toward Austin. Alternatively, stay on I-10 W and merge into US-71 W. From Austin, continue on US-290 W until you arrive at your vacation rental in or near downtown Fredericksburg.
Fredericksburg via San Antonio
For those who would prefer San Antonio, follow I-10 W out of downtown Houston and merge into US-87 N (Exit 523). This is the most hassle free route. You’ll stay on this road until you reach Fredericksburg.
We highly recommend you get an early start in Houston and take some rest stops at the must-visit places along the way. No matter what you decide, you’ll see a mix of rural areas and Texas small towns.
Fredericksburg via Greyhound Bus
Not driving? Greyhound offers bus trips from Houston to Fredericksburg with a bus stop transfer at the San Antonio Bus Station. Greyhound buses also have power outlets and offer free wi-fi to passengers, so you’ll have some entertainment during the 8 hours it’ll take to arrive in Fredericksburg.
7 Must-Visit Stops Via Austin, TX
Visit the Dewberry Farm
We believe the Dewberry Farm is a great first stop for families, and it’s less than an hour away from Houston. The fall season brings a pumpkin patch, corn maze, barnyard animals, and other favorite fall activities. It’s also a great way for kids to burn some energy before getting back on the road to Fredericksburg.
Visit the Cathedral of Junk
In the spirit of Keeping Austin Weird, why not visit the Cathedral of Junk? It’s a massive art installation created and maintained by Vince Hannemann. Not so surprisingly, it’s made out of junk, so you’ll find tools, car parts, signs, bottles, bicycle tires; whatever Hannemann can get his hands on. However, a visit requires some planning, so give Hannemann a call and he’ll happily accommodate you.
Take a Dip at the Barton Springs Pool, Austin
The Barton Springs Pool is a great stop you can make during the summer as it’ll give you a nice driving break. It’s located in Zilker Park, where you can relax and swim in the cool, clear spring water, have a picnic, or even go kayaking. Just be mindful of the swans you might encounter, as they like to glide near the Springs.
Explore the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a botanical garden and arboretum located at UT Austin. Walk around the garden to stretch your legs and eat a snack and coffee at the cafe. Don’t miss the observation tower for better views of the Center.
Hike at the Pedernales Falls State Park
Pedernales Falls is a Texas State Park filled with mountain biking and hiking trails, and it’s home to the Pedernales River. It’s another place where you can swim, kayak, canoe, or paddle and have a nice picnic. Perfect way to recharge in nature before making the last leg to Fredericksburg.
Explore Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site Grounds
Along the route between Austin and Fredericksburg, you’ll pass by the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site. This state park used to be the home of the US 36th President, so you’ll find memorabilia about the life of LBJ, the Sauer-Beckmann Farm, walking trails, and the LBJ Ranch.
Sip Wine at Grape Creek Vineyards
Wine tasting is one of the main reasons to visit Fredericksburg, and the Grape Creek Vineyards is one of the must-visit wineries and vineyards in the Hill Country. Grape Creek offers vineyard tours, where you can learn about wine processing and see the steel fermentation tanks, wine wood barrels, and bottling lines. You can also sit back and relax with a glass of your favorite wine while taking in the vineyard views.
5 Must-Visit Stops Via San Antonio, TX
Tour the K. Spoetzl Brewery and Distillery
K. Spoetzl is the oldest independent brewery and home of the Shiner Bock. Take a driving break from your Houston to Fredericksburg trip and go on an interactive tour of the brewery or the distillery tour. On the latter, you can do a Shiner spirits tasting and get a shot class. Plan your lunch at their BBQ restaurant.
Visit Seguin, TX
You can ride the rollercoaster at Seguin’s ZDT’s Amusement Park or go shopping in the historic downtown district. We recommend the Austin Street Market as it has a variety of items and handmade products. It’s also a good place where you resupply your road trip snacks, like pecans!
Tour the Spanish Governor’s Palace
Take a tour of the Spanish Governor’s Palace in San Antonio. It used to be the former residence of the captain of the Presidio San Antonio de Bexar, and it represents the history and culture of when Texas used to be under Spanish rule. You’ll see wrought-iron windows, arched doorways, thick adobe walls, and a courtyard – a classic Spanish-style home.
Explore the Cave Without a Name
Once you’re out of San Antonio, follow the route on US-290 W to the Cave Without a Name, it’s about 11 miles northeast of Boerne. We’re not sure about the origin of its name – a good question to ask your tour guide! It makes a great stop during your road trip and fun fact, the cave maintains a temperature of 66 degrees year-round.
Dance at Luckenbach, TX
Luckenbach is about 13 miles southeast of Fredericksburg – and if you don’t stop along the way to Fredericksburg – include it on your list of the best things to do. Luckenbach houses its famous dance hall and has live music performances. Take your dance partner and brush off on your two-step and line-dancing moves!
Tips Before You Get on the Road
We hope this information makes your drive from Houston to Fredericksburg much more enjoyable. Here are some tips before you get on the road:
- Pack snacks, water, and phone chargers. Use your GPS app.
- Have your copilot take photos and videos during any stops.
- Bring cash for small-town shops that may not take cards.
- Check your car before leaving, including the gas tank, tires, fluids, etc.
- Prepare a music playlist.
- Plan your breaks to avoid driver fatigue.
Book Your Stay in Fredericksburg, TX
Book your stay in Fredericksburg at one of our Cozi Vacation Rentals and be adventurous! Take a different route home – it’s the perfect solution to enjoy all the must-visit stops during your weekend getaway.
