This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Texas chapter.
It’s the most dreaded time of the collegiate calendar; the long stretch between Spring Break and vacation. Or what real world people like to call Spring. I admit, I can be a bit neglectful to this season in favor of her more sought after and hotter cousin, Summer. So I think it’s time we appreciate Spring in all of it’s glory and not just experience it through the flower beds by the six pack. Plus, it’s been a rainy winter here in Texas, so the next few months should be beautiful. Or at least that’s what my Biology teacher told me. Here are a few road trips easily made from Austin to places that are soon to be in full bloom:
1. Johnson City
A sea of Bluebonnets. Along with the boutiques and the breweries, this place is rich in history. The home of Texas’ very own former President, Lyndon B. Johnson can be found here, as well as his wife’s wild life center. However, on the hour long drive there, beware of the many families and high school seniors taking portraits on the side of the road.
2. Cedar Creek
The Lost Pines Forest in Cedar Creek is just a 35 minute drive away, and should be beautiful this time of year. If the weather is nice, walking along the trails is always a relaxing option. If you think you see Dinosaurs along the way, those berries you ate weren’t poisonous, you’re just passing the Dinosaur Park where full sized models of dinosaurs “roam.” Texas is full of surprises.
3. Wimberley
Provides cool, swampy springs to swim in that should be less crowded than the rivers in New Braunfels and less campy than Barton Springs. Also, it’s home to many art galleries, wineries and the highest zip line in Texas. However, I suggest you don’t visit those things in that order. An old ancient proverb: if you wine, you don’t zip line.
4. Fredericksburg
The hour and a half drive provides a great view of the hill country and the town itself has an old, Texan charm about it. The boutiques are always filled with eclectic things and the peaches are to die for. There are also many vineyards here too. There is a reason Grapecreek Vineyard is called Tuscany of Texas! Are you seeing a trend here?
5. Burnet
Home of the annual Burnet Bluebonnet Festival. There’s a carnival, parade, vendors and of course, lots and lots of flowers. It begins April 10th and is just an hour away from Austin. From here, you can also follow the bluebonnet trail to Lake Buchanan, where, you guessed it, there will be more flowers. But also, plenty of cabins to rent on the banks and restaurants spotted along the lakes. Perfect for the long weekend before finals!