A Scenic Drive from Albuquerque to Austin: The Unforgettable Places You Don't Want to Miss
Road trips are the perfect opportunity to soak in all the beauty that a route has to offer, particularly when you're travelling through picturesque places like New Mexico and Texas. The part that everyone loves is stopping every few miles to take in the stunning beauty, snap some killer photos, and snag a few tasty snacks. As you make your way from Albuquerque to Austin, there are heaps of hidden gems to explore. We've put together a list of the best places to stop while making the journey, so get your map ready and be prepared for a journey to remember!
1. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a wonderland of caves and underground crystal formations, perfect for exploring with loved ones. Be sure to start your adventure with a guided tour of this eerie and wonderful park. The caves are decorated with striking stalactites and stalagmites, which seem to be placed like sculptures in the darkness. It's recommended to take the "Big Room" tour, which is a 1.5-mile self-guided tour to visit the natural cave chamber. Make sure you don't leave without watching the bats fly out of the caverns at sunset; it's an experience you'll never forget!
2. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
If you're fond of hiking and climbing mountains, the Guadalupe Mountains National Park is right up your alley. Located a few miles from El Paso, this park features the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak, with an elevation of 8,747 feet. The Park also boasts striking rock formations, canyons, and scenic vistas. It's the perfect place to refresh your mind and soul with a refreshing hike on one of their extensive trails. Don't leave Guadalupe Mountains National Park without snapping a photo of El Capitan, one of the most outstanding rock formations in the region.
3. Fredericksburg, Texas
This charming little Texan town is travelling back in time, with historic buildings and storefronts all over the place. Fredericksburg is renowned for its beautiful architecture and vast stores, with hundreds of shops, antique stores, and galleries to explore. This town is also home to a robust wine industry, so you better believe there are some vineyards nearby. Try to visit Main Street for the best shopping experiences and make your way to the National Museum of the Pacific War to learn about American history during World War II.
4. Enchanted Rock State Park
While the landscape around Fredericksburg is rocky and rugged, Enchanted Rock State Park is where an enormous pink granite dome comes into play! It's best viewed from afar, as it awesomely stands tall. Referred to as the "devils playground" by the Tonkawa Indians, you can explore its many caves and crevices. The park also features trails with varying difficulty levels and a night sky dedicated area, which is in guidance by the International Dark-Sky Association. It's the perfect spot for stargazing.
5. Austin's Food Scene
Austin isn't only made famous by its thriving music scene; this city is also renowned for its food scene. With numerous food trucks dispensing local treats sprinkled across the town, you're guaranteed to find something that tastes great. Try the food truck favorite, Franklin BBQ, for lip-smackingly good brisket (you can't leave Austin without trying it). For something healthier, check out Juiceland for a fresh, refreshing smoothie. A great place to find a wide range of foods is definitely at the beloved and historic food market, The Texas Farmer's Market at Mueller.
In Conclusion
The journey from Albuquerque to Austin is a scenic and majestic one, and the above destinations can make quite the adventure. Enthralling caves, mesmerizing landscape, charming towns, and finger-licking-good food; there's something to see and taste for everyone. With this insightful list, you can count on having the perfect road trip – safe, scenic, and unforgettable! Don't forget to bring your camera, keep the GPS handy, and keep an open mind to seize every opportunity that presents itself. Happy adventuring!