Winter Road Trip Ideas Across the Lone Star State
When you think road trip in the Lone Star State, your mind goes to beaches, camping, and unforgettable sunsets — all summer features, right? Well, your seasonal getaways don’t have to only take place during the warmer months — this season, round up your family and head out on a winter road trip to one of these exciting destinations.
Fredericksburg
This quaint German town in the heart of the Texas Hill Country is just a hop, skip, and jump away from both San Antonio and Austin. Home to Enchanted Rock and the National Museum of the Pacific War, Fredericksburg also boasts more than 400 bed-and-breakfasts, guest ranches, and inns, making it a splendid destination for your wintertime getaway — just don’t forget to swing by the giant German Christmas pyramid, a 26-foot-tall traditional wooden German decoration also called a “Weihnachtspyramide,” at Marketplatz.
Goose Island State Park
If you want to escape Texas’ bare winter landscape and head for the beach, Goose Island State Park is the perfect place to warm your winter doldrums. The water will likely be too cold for swimming, but Goose Island provides plenty of other amazing activities to keep you occupied. A mere three-hour drive from either Houston or San Antonio, this gem of a state park is home to the aptly named Big Tree, Texas’ largest oak that’s been standing for more than 1,000 years. You’ll also find great fishing, birding, and camping.
Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge
While Texas is home to some jaw-dropping wildlife, you won’t find any tigers lurking through the live oaks on a drive to Dallas. However, if you pay a visit to Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge, you’ll find more than 40 big cats living on a 150-acre preserve just north of Tyler.
But don’t let the name fool you, Tiger Creek is home to more than just tigers — lions, pumas, leopards, and bobcats that were previously neglected, abused, or displaced also roam the premises.
Visit Tiger Creek’s website for more information about hours of operation, tours, and history.
Pinto Canyon Road (FM 2810)
One of the most breathtaking drives in the U.S., let alone in Texas, this 50-mile stretch takes you from the quirky town of Marfa to the border community of Ruidosa (population 43). You’ll wind through the Chinati Mountains and witness stunning views of this sparsely populated and seldom-traveled region of Texas. While in Marfa, be sure to spend a night outside with a few lawn chairs and cups of hot cocoa to catch a glimpse of the legendary Marfa Lights.
Whether driving through live oak-clad hills, gorgeous mesas, or thick pines, it’s tough to find an unenjoyable route or an unforgettable destination in the beautiful and diverse state of Texas.
Don’t forget to take advantage of the deals available through your Texas Farm Bureau member benefits — think rental cars, hotels, entertainment, and more.
Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms and may vary by situation. © 2016 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance
