5 Weekend Getaways Within Driving Distance of Dallas

Dec 28, 2015

Dallas is a sprawling metropolis full of the hustle and bustle of over 2 million residents. Over time, this wears down even the most strong-headed and stubborn Dallasite. If this describes you, then check out a few of these weekend getaways that are only a short trip from downtown or uptown.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Located just a four-hour drive up Interstate 30, Hot Springs, Arkansas, is the premier relaxation destination. It features tons of spas to soak in the natural hot springs, with eight famous and historic bathhouses located on famous Bathhouse Row. If spas aren’t exactly your thing, there is also a ton of other activities including hiking, golfing, or just perusing the interesting shops, restaurants, and bars downtown.

Shreveport, Louisiana

This is definitely a destination for the risk-taker. Lined with tons of casinos along the Red River, downtown Shreveport is the perfect place to try your hand at blackjack and poker or take in one of the many shows offered by the casinos. There’s also a boardwalk and an area to do some window shopping, or you can grab a beer and watch the river on a nice, sunny day.

Possum Kingdom Lake

This little gem just 150 miles west of Dallas is probably the closest thing you’ll see to a beach in Texas outside the Gulf Coast. Possum Kingdom Lake offers tons of options for the avid outdoorsman, such as hiking, camping, and scuba-diving opportunities. You can also rent a cabin and take in the amazing view of stars without the overwhelming lights from the city.

Horseshoe Bay, Texas

Just 30 minutes west of Austin and three and a half hours southwest of Dallas, you’ll find Horseshoe Bay. This quaint little resort town borders Lake LBJ and has tons of amenities. One of the best aspects of the area is its proximity to three of the top-rated golf courses in the country. There are also tons of water activities on Lake LBJ such as boating, water skiing, and sailing. If you want something that’s a bit off the beaten path, Horseshoe Bay is definitely a consideration.

Mustang Island State Park

Although Mustang Island State Park is a bit of a drive at about 400 miles, it’s worth the trip. Right next to its party-crazy sibling, South Padre Island, Mustang Park is far more of a relaxing destination and much less of a partying locale. Most people who come here rent out a camping spot on the beach for only $5 a night, which provides a buffer zone from many of the late-night festivities elsewhere. Once you’re here you can just take in the lovely views of the Gulf of Mexico, or you can become an active participant in some of the water sports offered by local vendors.

Dallas is one of the best cities in the country for partying, attending sporting events, or even going to a museum. But sometimes, everyone needs a little change of scenery. By hopping on the road and traveling just a short distance, you’ll find yourself in a new place and a world all your own.

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