Top Places to See When Driving from Arlington, Texas to Austin, Texas

Are you planning a road trip from Arlington to Austin? Texas is a vast state with amazing landscapes, charming small towns, and great history. Whether you’re driving to visit family, go on a business trip, or simply explore Texas, you’re in for a treat. Buckle up and get ready for a beautiful drive with plenty of sights to see along the way.

From cowboy culture to vibrant music scenes, the 210-mile journey from Arlington to Austin offers diverse experiences that will make any road trip memorable. Here are the top places to see when driving from Arlington, Texas to Austin, Texas:

Fort Worth

Start your journey in Fort Worth, a city known as the "Cowtown" with a rich Western heritage. Take a stroll in the Fort Worth Stockyards, a National Historic District that offers plenty of cowboy experiences. You can watch a cattle drive, visit a rodeo, or grab some Texas barbecue from one of the restaurants.

Stop by the famous Billy Bob's Texas, a honky-tonk nightclub that has been recognized as the "World's Largest Honky-Tonk." Billy Bob's offers diverse music acts and plenty of entertainment, from line dancing to bull riding.

Waco

About halfway through the journey, you’ll reach Waco, a city with a history that dates back to the Native American tribes that lived in the region. Today, Waco is famous for being the home of Baylor University and the Fixer Upper hosts Chip and Joanna Gaines.

Check out the Magnolia Market at the Silos, a massive shopping complex created by Chip and Joanna Gaines. The Magnolia Market features a huge selection of home decor, clothes, and accessories, as well as a beautiful garden to explore. If you’re feeling hungry, grab some Southern-style treats from the food trucks parked on-site.

Temple

As you head south to Austin, make a stop in Temple, a city with a history that dates back to the 1880s. Temple is known for being one of the largest medical centers in the state, with plenty of healthcare providers and universities that focus on healthcare sciences.

If you’re looking for a fun activity, check out the Mayborn Museum Complex, a family-friendly destination that offers interactive exhibits, a historic village, and a natural history exhibit. The Mayborn Museum Complex also houses a planetarium that offers shows for all ages.

Gruene

Just 45 minutes away from Austin, you’ll find Gruene, a historic German town with a charming vibe. Gruene is famous for being home to the oldest dance hall in Texas, Gruene Hall, which has been around since 1878. Many famous musicians, such as Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett, have played at Gruene Hall.

Take a stroll in the Gruene Historic District, where you can find plenty of antique shops, art galleries, and fashion boutiques. If you’re feeling hungry, grab some classic Texas cuisine at the Gristmill River Restaurant, which offers beautiful river views and a cozy atmosphere.

Austin

Your road trip ends in Austin, the capital of Texas, and one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the state. Austin offers plenty of attractions for all ages, from live music venues to outdoor activities and excellent dining.

Check out the Texas State Capitol, a stunning landmark that houses the offices and chambers of the state’s legislature and governor. The Capitol is open to visitors and offers free tours that explain the history and architecture of the building.

If you’re a music lover, you can’t miss the opportunity to catch a show at the famous Austin City Limits Live, a state-of-the-art venue that hosts a wide range of performers, from emerging artists to world-famous bands.

Conclusion

From cowboy culture to historic landmarks to vibrant cities and live music scenes, the drive from Arlington to Austin is full of amazing experiences. Whether you’re a Texan local or a first-time visitor, these top places to see will make your road trip memorable and fun. So, pack your bags, hit the road and enjoy what Texas has to offer!