Looking for your next weekend getaway? There's no shortage of incredible places to explore right here in Texas. In fact, road trips are the most popular type of vacation this year. So every Friday in the month of August, we’re highlighting one destination that deserves a spot on your itinerary. This week, we're taking the 3.5-hour drive to a small town known as Buda, Texas.

Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.

Drive time: ~3-ish hours from downtown FTW

Est. population: 16,383

Average high temperature in August: 95°

🎟️ Things to do

Historic Stagecoach Park
This park is home to two historic farm structures + a nature trail on 51 acres of land. You might even spot White-tailed deer wandering through the mesquite and oak trees.

Cabela’s
You can easily spend half a day at this Texas-sized sporting goods outlet. Explore the store’s aquarium, mountain exhibit, and museum.

Pinballz Kingdom
Enjoy family fun activities such as laser tag, bumper cars, and arcade games. There’s even a giant dragon gateway to welcome visitors.

Downtown Buda Farmers Market
Shop fresh baked goods and vegetables at this year-round farmers market, which is open on Sundays. While you browse the vendors, enjoy live music from local musicians.

Doc’s Drive-In Theatre
Catch an outdoor flick at this pet-friendly drive-in. Guests can also enjoy fresh snacks and drinks during the movie.

🍔 Grub to eat

Sweet Cakes 4 U
When your sweet tooth kicks in, stop by this dessert shop, which serves up cake, cupcakes, scones, muffins, and cake balls.

Brooklyn’s Down South
Get a taste of traditional American, Cajun, and Mexican food at this restaurant. Unique menu items include crab-stuffed avocados and alligator bites.

Louie’s Craft BBQ
What’s a Texas town without barbecue? Choose from a selection of brisket, pulled pork, smoked turkey, and sausage at this food truck.

Garcia’s Mexican Food
Select from a hefty entree list of tamales, tacos, and enchiladas.

Main St. Pizzeria & Beer Garden
This pizzeria and beer garden offers pepperoni rolls, speciality pizzas, beer, and wine by the bottle.

MudBugs
Cajun dishes at this restaurant include andouille crusted redfish, shrimp + grits, and gumbo.

Doc’s Drive-In Theatre’s Mini Houses include a Star Wars-themed vacation rental. | Photo by Sarah Denny/Doc’s Drive-In Theatre

🏨 Overnight accommodations

If you get a wild hair and decide to turn this quick day trip into an overnighter, here are some spots to stay.

Doc’s Drive-In Theatre’s Mini Houses, 1540 Satterwhite Rd.
These vacation rentals feature themes such as “The Galaxy Far, Far Away,” “Wizarding World,” and “Breakfast at Audrey’s.” These properties include one bedroom and one bathroom, and cost $108+ per night.

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Buda Austin South, 1285 Cabelas Dr.
Rooms include up to two beds with a bathroom at a rate of $83+ per night.

Comfort Suites Buda - Austin South, 15295 S. I-35 Frontage Rd.
Rooms include up to two beds with a bathroom at a rate of $113+ per night.

Hampton Inn & Suites Austin South/Buda, 1201 Cabela's Dr.
Rooms include up to two beds with a bathroom at a rate of $129+ per night.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Austin South-Buda, 15295 I-35
Rooms include up to two beds with a bathroom at a rate of $121+ per night.