Collaboration: Best Texas Road Trips
Emily Forsythe
We've taken Anna the Vanna to every corner of the U.S. and beyond, so we know a thing or two about road trips. There's nothing better than hitting the road with the radio up, windows down, and some great company in the passenger seat!
While we have traveled via van to some beautiful places across the U.S. and abroad, we must admit that we have some pretty spectacular sites and varied landscapes in our own backyard, here in Texas! Palo Duro Canyon was our last stop on our long road trip and it is one that won't be forgotten, maybe because we have a large photo in our house of our bus at the canyon underneath the dazzling Texas star-studded sky! It doesn't get enough credit for it's beauty and we didn't realize until visiting that it is the second largest canyon in the country next to the Grand Canyon.
When it comes to road tripping, the Lone Star State has no shortage of amazing places to visit. We've teamed up with a few of Austin's top creatives for a look into their favorite places to travel in Texas. Read on for recommendations by Chelsea Francis, Jake Pritchard, Jane Ko and Travis Hallmark!
Chelsea Francis | Photographer, Connector, Creative
@ohhhchelsea
When it comes to taking a roadtrip in Texas, I've found that some of the most beautiful gems lie within the state lines. One of my favorite places to visit is Big Bend National Park. I visited Big Bend last year for the first time. It was my first National Park and I was absolutely hooked. Big Bend is naturally stunning + incredibly vast. You could visit 10 times and have a different experience each time. I definitely recommend driving the scenic byway and hiking a few trails!
Jake Pritchard | Co-Founder of Adventure Assist
@adventuringjake
My favorite Texas road trip destination has to be the mythical, art filled town of Marfa. I love Marfa mostly for its raw simplicity mixed with modern art and design, but can’t help get a kick out of the genuine quirkiness of the tiny desert town. Plus, the 6 1/2 hour drive through Texas hill country from Austin is actually really nice, and not complete without a stop for a quick dip at the springs in Balmorhea and coffee at Cedar Coffee Supply in Alpine.
Koko | Food and Travel blogger, A Taste of Koko
@atasteofkoko
I really love Fredericksburg in the fall when the leaves have changed colors and the weather is cooler to explore the wineries. Stay at the Das Peach Haus farmhouse, taste the wine at the local Texas wineries like Four Points Cellars, and dine at Airport Diner, Burger Burger, and Otto's German Bistro.
Travis Hallmark | Photographer
@travishallmark
Being a photographer and a competitive cyclist I’ve found one of my favorite road trip spots nestled deep in the heart of West Texas at Palo Duro Canyon. With miles of red dirt, you can't help but feel like you’re smack dab in the middle of a John Wayne film. Most of my time spent out there is exploring the miles of trails that weaved throughout the canyon. From rattlesnakes and bighorn sheep to storms rolling through, this place never leaves you bored. Finish a long day of riding with a latte or cold beer at a craft coffee shop and tap house.
