One of the best things about living in Austin is how easy it is to escape for the day while not being far from home. With cooler weather and Hill Country views calling, it’s the perfect time to load up the car, grab your pup, and head out for a little adventure.
Here are some fun day trips to make memories with your pup.
Wimberley
Drive: About an hour southwest
Peaceful, artsy, and surrounded by creekside trails, Wimberley has a charm that’s hard to beat. Start your morning at Blue Hole Regional Park for a shaded walk, pups aren't allowed in the swim lawn area, but they are in other areas of the park. Then wander around Wimberley Square, where most shops are happy to see a dog on leash.
When it’s time to eat, Community Pizza & Beer Garden has plenty of outdoor tables and a relaxed, small-town feel.
Dripping Springs
Drive: Around 45 minutes west
Known as the “Gateway to the Hill Country,” Dripping Springs is packed with dog-friendly patios and breweries. Locals love Vista Brewing for its open space and good food, and Family Business Beer Co. for its laid-back weekend vibe.
On your way back, take the scenic route, those winding backroads at sunset are what Hill Country days are made of.
Bastrop
Drive: About 40 minutes southeast
Bastrop has a mix of small-town charm, pine forest trails, and river views that make it perfect for a quick escape. Spend the morning exploring Bastrop State Park, where the trails weave through tall pines and quiet creeks. Downtown, you’ll find a few great patios like Neighbor’s Kitchen & Yard, set right on the Colorado River and welcoming to pups.
If you have time, check out Sugar Shack for something sweet before heading home.
San Marcos
Drive: About 45 minutes south
San Marcos is a water lover’s paradise, especially if your pup likes to swim. Start your day at K9 Water World, an off-leash dog waterpark that’s open year-round and designed entirely for dogs to splash, swim, and socialize. Afterward, explore Rio Vista Park or Purgatory Creek Natural Area for a shaded trail walk along the river.
For lunch, stop by The Root Cellar Café or AquaBrew, both offering pet-friendly patios and great local food.
If your pup still has energy, grab a coffee at Mochas & Javas and stroll through the San Marcos Square before heading home.
Marble Falls
Drive: About an hour northwest
Marble Falls makes an easy lakeside escape. Bring your dog to Johnson Park for a walk along the creek and some off-leash play in the open areas. Afterward, head into town for a patio lunch at River City Grille, right on the water.
If you have a sweet tooth, stop at Blue Bonnet Café before heading home. Locals will tell you the pie alone is worth the drive.
Spicewood
Drive: Around 50 minutes west
A little quieter than some Hill Country towns, Spicewood is perfect for dogs who love the water. Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area has open trails, lake access, and wildflowers in the spring. For something different, Cypress Valley even offers treehouse stays for a weekend away.
Bring towels. You’ll need them.
Fredericksburg
Drive: About an hour and a half west
Between the shops, wineries, and patios, Fredericksburg has no shortage of places that welcome dogs. Check out Signor Vineyards or Barons Creek Vineyards for an easy afternoon among the vines, then take a stroll down Main Street. You’ll find water bowls outside more than a few shops.
If you want a true Hill Country moment, make a quick stop at Luckenbach Texas for live music before heading back.
Before You Go
Most of these spots ask that dogs stay on leash and up to date on vaccinations, so it’s worth checking ahead before you head out. Don’t forget extra water, snacks, Benadryl (for critter bites), and a towel if your pup’s a swimmer.
Also, we recommend getting your pup's microchip checked to make sure it's working and update the information, if needed. It's a great idea for your pup to have two forms of identification, a collar and a harness, both with tags, in case one slips off. And if you're like us and want as many safety measures in place as possible, have them wear a GPS tracker, like a Fi or Tractive, and head out with it fully charged.
Well-fitted, breathable muzzles (like a basket muzzle) that let them eat and drink are great for public places. Even if your pup is generally friendly, it's a good precaution to keep them safe; you never know who might approach them or if they might get unexpectedly anxious. We lovingly refer to muzzles as party masks.
Living Local
Days like these are what make Austin living special: the space, the community, and all the places where pups can adventure alongside you.
If you’ve been dreaming of a home that makes weekend escapes this easy, we’d love to help you find it.
Gina and Jorge
Dueñas Realty Group | Compass
Guiding meaningful moves across Austin and The Hill Country
Disclaimer:
This content is for general informational purposes only and reflects personal opinions and experiences. Any recommendations, advice, or information provided are not guaranteed and should not be considered professional or expert guidance. Dueñas Realty Group, Compass, and any affiliated businesses make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, safety, or suitability of any locations, products, or activities mentioned. Always confirm details such as pet policies, hours, and safety information directly with each venue before visiting. Visitors assume full responsibility for themselves and their pets when participating in any listed activities or travel.
