With the cost of fuel continuing to climb, more and more vacationers are looking for close-to-home getaways. Luckily, the Lone Star State offers plenty such options. In fact, every region of Texas offers attractions and destinations that can be reached with less than a tank of gas.
1. Island Retreat
Danno Wise
Located less than an hour's drive from from Houston, the nation's fourth-largest city, Galveston Island offers a full vacation experience reachable for many Texans with less than half a tank of gas. Swimming, sunning, fishing, surfing, golfing and birding are just a few of the outdoor recreational activities available on the island. Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Moody Gardens, the Strand and other attractions help round out the vacation itinerary. Galveston also offers a wide variety of hotels, condos and restaurants.
2. Head for the Hills
Danno Wise
The Texas Hill Country is literally filled with things for visitors to do. Any number of Hill Country towns, such as Wimberley, San Marcos, New Braunfels and Fredricksburg, can serve as a 'home base' for a vacation adventure. Each of these towns, plus several others, offer a variety of outdoor activities, much of which is based around the clear, cold Hill Country Streams, as well as quaint shops and restaurants.
3. Run for the Border
Danno Wise
Located just a short drive northwest of Del Rio - and only two hours southwest of San Antonio - Lake Amistad is a sprawling reservoir shared by the United States and Mexico. Since it is located in a mountainous region, Amistad's waters are clear and deep, making it a popular destination for swimmers, boaters, scuba divers, windsurfers, and fishermen. The area also have several locations for hiking and exploring cave paintings left by ancient indian tribes.
4. Pitch a Tent
For those visitors who never want to be indoors, Texas has a number of excellent spot to pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars. Whether it is a state park, national park, a sandy stretch of beach or a natural reserve, Texas offers campers a vast variety of areas to choose from. Many of these areas are within an easy drive of major Texas cities.5. See San Antonio
Danno Wise
San Antonio is not only one of Texas' largest cities, it is also the state's top tourist destination. Between historic sites, novelty museums, modern attractions, fine restaurants and the winding RiverWalk, there is more than enough to fill out a vacation schedule. Just outside of San Antonio are a number of caverns and caves for those interested in exploring natural wonders. Lakes Brauning and Calavaras are also within easy reach for those interested in watersports. Best of all, San Antonio is within a few hours drive time of most major Texas cities.
