Texas is a big state — in fact, it’s the second biggest state in the contiguous United States! — and it’s no surprise that one trip to Texas won’t be enough to see everything. While many visitors flock to major cities like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin, the areas outside these cities have plenty to offer as well. So if you have a free day or two during your Texas group trip, consider taking a day trip to some of Texas’s most underrated, yet worthy destinations! Whether your group enjoys learning about history, exploring the great outdoors or experiencing the state’s vibrant culture, you’re sure to find something for everyone.
Where to go in Texas
There are so many awesome day trip destinations in Texas, but if you’re only here for a short amount of time, choosing where to go can be a challenge. Luckily, we have a few picks in mind! Your group can enjoy a beach day in Galveston, cool off at one of Texas’s many water parks, explore the state’s German heritage in New Braunfels, and more with a private charter bus rental. Don’t forget about all the fun that Texas’ national parks offer! Hike the scenic trails in Big Bend National Park, experience the mystery of the Marfa Lights in West Texas, or explore the caves and caverns at Natural Bridge Caverns.
So pack up your charter bus and hit the road!
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Distance from Houston: About 1 hour southeast
Address: 2501 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
A trip to the coast is a must for any Texas traveler, especially during the warm, sunny summer months! And if your group wants the ultimate seaside amusement park experience, plan a day trip to the historic Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. While you’re at the pier, you can enjoy 16 amusement rides with stunning views of the Gulf Coast, try your luck at one of the midway games, or even catch a concert on the pier. Your group of friends or extended family can stroll along the pier’s boardwalk for classic carnival fare like funnel cakes, and hot dogs or enjoy a delicious meal of fresh seafood at one of several upscale restaurants along the water.
We also found Galveston to be one of the most affordable warm weather destinations in the US with the average daily vacation cost sitting around $183!
Six Flags Fiesta Texas
Distance from San Antonio: About 1.5 hours north
Address: 17000 IH-10 West, San Antonio, TX 78257
From iconic wooden coasters to thrilling aquatic rides and everything in-between, Six Flags Fiesta Texas has earned its reputation as one of the best amusement parks in the Southwest. The park offers a variety of group discount programs and packages that are ideal for school field trips, company outings, and scout troop adventures. Group admission prices start at around $30 a person for parties of 15 or more. Six Flags Fiesta Texas also offers catered meals, meal vouchers, and group cabana rentals. You’ll also have access to the park’s dedicated group entrance gate for a swift, stress-free entry. You could also add Six Flags Over Texas to your itinerary, this one is located in Arlington!
Natural Bridge Caverns
Distance from San Antonio: About 40 minutes north
Address: 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266
No matter how hot it gets above ground, you can always count on a cool 70 degrees Fahrenheit when you’re exploring the Natural Bridge Caverns. These caves are home to the largest commercial cavern system in Texas. In addition to touring the caves’ stunning rock formations, your group of friends or families can spend the day zip lining, rock climbing, and digging for gems and fossils.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Resort
Distance from San Antonio: About 45 minutes northeast
Address: 400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Beat the Texas heat at one of the state’s best water parks, Schlitterbahn New Braunfels. With fun rapids, twisting slides, and relaxing lagoons, the park is a great place for an all-day getaway with your youth group, family, or company. You’ll find a variety of group discounts and ticketing packages on the Schlitterbahn website, including meal plans and reserved cabanas. To inquire about group reservation and parking information for minibuses and charter buses, contact the Schlitterbahn group sales team.
South Padre Island
Distance from San Antonio: About 4 hours south
Address: South Padre Island, TX
If you have a few days for your Texas vacation, you’ll definitely want to plan a trip to South Padre Island! Known for being the state’s most popular Spring Break beach, this is a great place to kick back, relax, and enjoy the sun and surf. Book a charter bus rental for the 4-hour trip down to the coast and you’ll have a comfortable long-distance ride with all the entertainment you’ll need (or all the space you need to have that comfy bus ride nap!). Enjoy a movie marathon with your bus’s onboard TVs, read a book, or stay up to date with family and friends through your motorcoach’s WiFi. When you book your bus rental, ask for an onboard restroom to minimize bathroom breaks so you can get to the beach as soon as possible.
Texas State Capitol Building
Distance from Austin: Central Austin
Address: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Known as one of the most impressive Capitol buildings in the U.S., the Texas State Capitol is a must-see for Texas travelers. The building is open to the public for free, self-guided tours every day of the week. The grounds surrounding the Capitol offer even more opportunities for your group to explore, including the monuments, the Visitors Center, and a restaurant. You’ll also find designated dropoff and parking zones for oversized vehicles. Your charter bus driver can drop your group off in front of the building before they find a parking spot.
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza
Distance from Dallas: Central Dallas
Address: 411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202
A quick stop for history buffs and school groups, this iconic part of Downtown Dallas is a poignant historical landmark. Explore the somber yet significant history of the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy through the museum’s exhibits about the event and his presidency. There’s a designated bus loading zone for groups to use.
Space Center Houston
Distance from Houston: ~30 minutes southeast
Address: 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058
As the official visitor center for the NASA Johnson Space Center, this attraction is a must-see for any fans of space exploration and astronomy. With exhibits highlighting some of the most significant moments in American spaceflight history and displays of space crafts like the Apollo 17, this is a day trip that will surely impress. You can even sign up for a tram tour to explore the real Johnson Space Center where real astronauts train for their missions! School groups will also find a wide array of educational programs to make the field trip a memorable one – just remember to plan for the bus ride, here are some bus games to keep in mind!
The Alamo
Distance from San Antonio: Central San Antonio
Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205
Visiting the Alamo is a must for any traveler in San Antonio, especially if it’s your first time to the city. This former Spanish mission played a major role in the Texas Revolution, and the battle that occurred there is one of the most well-known events in the state’s history. The Alamo is a great place to learn more about Texan history and see a piece of Texas culture.
Book Your Tour With Partybus.com!
We at Partybus.com are passionate about connecting groups to the best transportation option for any occasion. The charter buses and minibuses in our network can make your trip perfect! Call our team today at 1-877-563-2133 to learn more about our services and to receive a free, personalized quote. We are available 24/7 to talk to you about any group transportation needs you may have, so give us a call! We are excited to help you enjoy the Lone Star State to the fullest!