Summertime in Austin can unveil a treasure trove of delights, from plunging into Barton Springs to grabbing a snowball at Casey’s to enjoying a show at Blues on the Green. But if all of your tried-and-true summer staples have lost their shine, it might be time to get out of town. Here are five close-to-home day trips to consider that are ideal for a summer jaunt.
Frontyard Brewing, Spicewood
Frontyard Brewing is a family-friendly destination in Spicewood. Contributed by Frontyard Brewing
The Austin area boasts a slew of incredible breweries, wineries and distilleries, ranging from the tree-shaded Treaty Oak Distilling to the always-fun Deep Eddy Vodka Tasting Room. A newcomer on the scene that’s sure to please the entire family – including multigenerational families – is Frontyard Brewing in Spicewood, where there is literally something for everyone. Love sports? Reserve a spot at one of the six on-site pickle ball courts. Have kids? Let them roam the turf-lined grounds to discover just-for-them features such as a gaga ball pit. Love beer? Sample on-tap selections including a Belgian blonde ale, a hazy IPA and a coffee milk stout. Don’t like beer? Visit the adjacent 5 Soul Wine Co. for a glass of red or white. Love dogs? Bring ‘em! Hungry? Enjoy fare including pizza, subs and soft pretzels – including impossible-to-find gluten-free soft pretzels! – from the on-site food trucks. After just one visit, Frontyard Brewing became an instant favorite for my family – we can’t wait to go back. https://frontyardbrewing.com/
Pizza is among the offerings at Frontyard Brewing. Contributed by Mirielle Badgley-Finan
Hill Country Galleria, Bee Cave
Sonesta Bee Cave offers a close-to-home respite. Contributed by Kristin Finan
In addition to expansive shopping, dining and entertainment options, the Hill Country Galleria, located in Bee Cave, hosts a variety of community events that are fun for the whole family, including regular live music and a weekly farmer’s market. Want to make a night of it? Book a room at Sonesta Bee Cave, an upscale yet affordable Hill Country Galleria property that boasts a refreshing swimming pool, well-appointed rooms and the wonderful Meridian 98 restaurant, where fresh fare, local brews and Hill Country views are the order of the day. https://www.hillcountrygalleria.com/, sonesta.com
Meridian 98 at Sonesta Bee Cave offers food, brews and views. Contributed by Mirielle Badgley-Finan
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Horseshoe Bay, Lake LBJ
There’s so much to love about Horseshoe Bay Resort. First of all, it’s only an hour’s drive from Austin. Second, it has every amenity you can dream of, from world-class golf to yes, a private airport. And while it may sometimes get overshadowed by San Antonio-area resorts, it has everything kids love, too, from nightly s’mores to sprawling pools to giant lawn chess. For my family, Horseshoe Bay Resort has always provided the most perfect respite. Sometimes we’ll rent a pontoon boat and spend a day on the water. Sometimes we’ll hit the links on one of four championship golf courses. And sometimes, such as during our most recent visit, we’ll simply plant ourselves by one of four pools and splash the day away. The property’s recent $100-million renovation – which included updates to the golf courses and spa, upgraded guest rooms, expanded conference space and the addition of new restaurants in the hotel tower, yacht club and entertainment complex – only added to its appeal. Whether you spend the morning traversing the hiking trails, rent a bike and roll your way across the property or take a boat out on the water, Horseshoe Bay Resort is sure to delight all types of travelers. www.hsbresort.com
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Kalahari Resort, Round Rock
Kalahari’s indoor water park is open daily. Contributed by Kalahari
There’s no better time to splash the day away than during the 100-degree days of summer, but if you want to enjoy the water without fear that a late-afternoon Texas thunderstorm is going to ruin your plans, consider a stay at Kalahari Resort. Here, at the country’s largest indoor waterpark, no matter the weather, the slides are fast, the lazy river is winding and the hot tub is bubbling. The resort also offers a variety of summer-themed activities, including live entertainment, a Father’s Day barbecue buffet and Fourth of July fireworks. Want to make it a staycation? Waterpark admission is always included with your stay. https://www.kalahariresorts.com/texas
Udoscape, Lago Vista
Experience life in a bubble at Udoscape, a luxury glamping resort in Lago Vista that features fully decked-out geodesic domes that offer panoramic views of the sprawling Texas sky. While the experience inside your dome is sure to be relaxing – think full kitchen, luxurious linens and a full bathroom – you’ll likely spend most of your time on the deck, soaking in your own private hot tub. Just in time for summer, the property also recently installed a pool and deck ideal for lazy lounging. Be sure to make it a couple’s trip, though – no kids are allowed here. https://udoscaperesorts.com/
