Looking for an easy, lowkey getaway? Look no further than beautiful Central Texas.

The 2024 Texas Travel Awards just dropped, so we wanted to share the day trip-worthy spots in the Central Texas area that made the list. Let's dive in.

Austin

The Otis Hotel | Best hotel, big market

Georgetown (~30 minutes away)

@VisitGeorgetownTX | Best destination social media account, small/mid market

Dripping Springs (~35 minutes away)

Dripping Springs Distilling | Best distillery

Sit back, relax, and enjoy some live music on the grass at Bastrop Music Festival. | Photo courtesy Visit Bastrop

Bastrop (~35 minutes away)

Best destination for families, people's choice
Best destination for outdoor adventures, people's choice
Bastrop Music Festival | Best music festival or event, small/mid market

Don't miss @paintedporchbookshop next time you're exploring Downtown Bastrop. | Photo by @bookstagramgold

Liberty Hill (~40 minutes away)

River Ranch County Park and Interpretive Center | Best park

New Braunfels (~45 minutes away)

Destination of the Year
Phoenix Saloon | Best bar, big market
8Sages – The Dolly Cottage | Best Instagrammable spot, big market
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch | Best outdoor activity, big market
Thru the Chute Cardboard Boat Race | Best community event, big market
Gruene Hall | Best iconic tourist attraction
Gruene Historic District | Best shopping district
Dry Comal Creek Vineyards | Best winery

Marble Falls (~one hour away)

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge | Best hiking/biking trail

Giddings (~one hour away)

Freedom Fest | Best community event, small/mid market

Looking for more inspiration? Check out the winners of the 2023 Texas Travel Awards.