posted on October 14, 2025
The Dallas to Austin drive is a Texas classic. Following I-35, a straight shot from city to city will take you 3 hours to travel 195 miles. While you can complete the trip in one morning or afternoon, it’s worth slowing down a little to take in all that the drive has to offer. There truly is something for everyone. From breathtaking views in nature parks to iconic restaurants, this road trip is not one to miss.
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Dallas to Austin drive: Overview
- Your road trip map from Dallas to Austin
- Top tips for driving from Dallas to Austin
- Your stop-by-stop Dallas to Austin drive itinerary
- Top places to stop between Dallas and Austin
- Frequently asked questions about the Dallas to Austin drive
An overview of the drive from Dallas to Austin
- Drive time: 3 hours (direct route)
- Drive distance: 195 miles (direct route)
- Suggested road trip length: 1-2 days
- Recommended itinerary:
- Stop 1: Dallas to Dinosaur Valley State Park
- Stop 2: Dinosaur Valley State Park to Hico
- Stop 3: Hico ot Lampasas
- Stop 4: Lampasas to Austin
- Top stops:
- Waco Mammoth National Monument
- Dr Pepper Museum (Waco)
- Dinosaur Valley State Park (Glen Rose)
- Hico
- Lampasas
- Inner Space Cavern (Georgetown)
- Krause Springs (Spicewood)
- South Congress (Austin)
- Gas stations and EV chargers along the drive: You’ll find frequent gas stations and EV chargers all along I-35, with easy stops in Waco, Temple, Belton, Georgetown, and Round Rock. If you’re taking the scenic backroads, plan your fuel/charging stops in Glen Rose, Hico, Lampasas, and Killeen. Gas services are available, but hours can be shorter outside of larger towns.
- Driving conditions: Driving from Dallas to Austin is typically a smooth drive year-round, especially if you’re following the most direct route south on the I-35 highway. Around peak times, the highway can get congested, particularly around Waco and when entering or leaving the two cities. If you’re going for the more scenic option to enjoy more of the Lone Star State, the backroads reward you with winding, tree-lined views and charming historic towns. It’s always worth checking the weather before you go, as flooding can occasionally impact this route.
- Recommended vehicle: If you prefer extra space for gear or family, a midsize SUV is ideal for the scenic stretches around Dinosaur Valley State Park and Lampasas. For a more eco-friendly option, an EV with a decent range will serve you well on the road trip from Dallas to Austin. Charging stations are available in major towns like Waco and Georgetown, and smaller stops along the backroads like Killeen.
Distance from Dallas to Austin
The direct route from Dallas to Austin is 195 miles when you follow the I-35 South. One of the easiest road trips in Texas, most drivers can complete the trip in under half a day, depending on conditions. But there is so much to see and fun activities for everyone between the two great cities, which is why we suggest turning it into a 2-day trip.
Dallas to Austin drive time
The drive from Dallas to Austin takes around 3 hours if you follow the direct route, making it one of the most convenient big-city connections in Texas. Travel times can stretch closer to 3.5-4hours during peak traffic, especially around Waco or as you approach Austin. So leave yourself extra time if you’re driving on weekends or holidays.
If you’re taking the recommended scenic drive through central Texas and detouring through Dinosaur Valley State Park, Hico, and Lampasas, expect the journey to take closer to 5-6 hours, depending on how long your pit stops are.
When to go from Dallas to Austin
This trip has something to offer year-round. However, the best time to drive from Dallas to Austin is in the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November), when Central Texas enjoys mild weather and scenic views. In spring, you’ll catch the famous Texas Bluebonnets blooming along the highways and backroads, while fall brings comfortable temperatures for exploring some of the many trails along the road trip from Dallas, like the Brazos River or Lake Buchanan.
Summer is the busiest season, but also the hottest, with temperatures often climbing above 95°F. If you’re travelling in summer, make sure you’re prepared with water, snacks and plan plenty of rest stops along the picturesque views.
No matter the season, it’s smart to avoid peak times such as Friday evening or Sunday afternoon departures, as the I-35 traffic between Dallas, Waco, and Austin can be heavy with weekend travellers.
The best Dallas to Austin route
For a more memorable trip, the best route from Dallas to Austin is one that offers picturesque views of the scenic backroads through Central Texas. Instead of staying on the I-35, you can detour west toward Dinosaur Valley State Park, continue through the small town charm of Hico, and wind your way down to Lampasas before arriving in Austin.
The best stop between Dallas and Austin
The best halfway stop between Dallas and Austin is Waco, which is right off the I-35, about 100 miles from Dallas. It’s an easy place to break up the trip, with plenty of gas stations, and a few standout attractions like the Dr Pepper Museum, the Waco Mammoth National Monument, and Magnolia Market at the Silos.
Your road trip map from Dallas to Austin
Top tips for the drive from Dallas to Austin
While the Dallas to Austin road trip is a straightforward journey, a little planning goes a long way. From knowing where traffic tends to build up to the best places for a pit stop, these tips will help you spend more time taking in the stunning views and less time mulling over trip logistics.
Driving conditions: What is the road from Dallas to Austin like?
- I-35 South is a modern, well-maintained highway that makes the direct drive from city to city smooth and straightforward.
- Traffic congestion is common during peak hours, especially near Waco and when entering Austin.
- Construction Zones occasionally appear along the I-35, which can slow travel times.
- Tolls: I-35 is largely toll-free, but SH-130 east of Austin is a paid bypass that can save time in heavy traffic.
- Plenty of services (gas stations, food, rest stops) are available along the highway route.
- Scenic backroads via Dinosaur Valley State Park, Hico, and Lampasas feature rolling hills, tree-lined drives, and historic small towns.
- Narrower country roads on the scenic route may require slower driving and extra caution, especially when driving at night.
- Wildlife crossing (like deer) is more likely on rural stretches of Central Texas.
- Weather impacts can include sudden storms or stretches of flooding in low-lying areas, particularly during Spring and Summer.
Recommended type of car for the drive
A midsize SUV is ideal if you’re packing hiking gear or travelling with family, especially on the scenic backroads near Dinosaur Valley State Park and Lampasas. Prefer an eco-friendly ride? An EV with solid range works well, with convenient charging in Waco and Georgetown.
Tip from the author: With Turo, you can choose the exact car for your trip, from roomy SUVs to efficient EVs, hosted by locals.
How to stay safe on this road trip
- Plan rest breaks every 1.5-2 hours to stretch your legs for a few minutes and recharge at one of the many scenic pit stops.
- Share the driving if you’re travelling with friends or family to spread the load and stay fresh.
- Avoid peak traffic hours, especially when leaving Dallas or entering the capital city.
- Pack plenty of refreshments, especially if you’re travelling in summer when the Texas heat is at its highest.
- Check the weather before you leave, as storms and flash floods can affect Central Texas roads.
- Stay alert for wildlife on the backroads near Dinoraur Valley State Park or Lampasas River, particularly at dusk.
- Make sure your car is road trip ready.
The perfect Dallas to Austin drive itinerary
The most direct route from Dallas to Austin follows I-35 and takes just under three hours. It’s quick, convenient, and passes through popular spots like Waco, making it ideal if you’re short on time.
But if you’re looking to turn the trip into an adventure, this scenic route is worth the detour. Winding through Central Texas backroads, this path leads you past state parks, camping spots, wineries, antique shops, and charming small towns that showcase the Lone Star State’s rich history and character. Here’s how to make the most of the drive with a stop-by-stop itinerary.
Dallas to Dinosaur Valley State Park
- Drive time: 1 hour 20 min
- Drive distance: 80mi
- What to do: Take a step, or multiple steps, back in time at Dinosaur Valley State Park, where you can see real dinosaur tracks that have been preserved in the Paluxy River. A great place for curious minds, the park also offers scenic hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, and opportunities to swim and picnic by the river. It’s an especially fun stop for families, with a mix of history, science and outdoor adventure.
Tip from the author: Bring water shoes if you plan to walk in the riverbed to see the dinosaur tracks up close, as the rocks can be slippery.
- Where to stay:
- $ – Camping spots within Dinosaur Valley State Park offer amenities for both tent and RV camping.
- $$ – Glen Rose Inn & Suites in nearby Glen Rose for a simple, comfortable stay.
- $$$ – Rough Creek Lodge & Resort, a luxury option just outside of Glen Rose.
- Where to eat: Grab a bite to eat in Glen Rose, the closest town, which offers several casual diners and BBQ spots.
- Glen Rose Coffee Company is the perfect stop for a quick pick-me-up after a morning of exploring the Dinosaur Valley State Park.
- Pie Peddlers is a local favourite for the perfect slice (or 6). You can’t go wrong with a taste tester pack of all your classic favourites, plus a few twists.
- Loco Coyote Grill is known for hearty Texas BBQ and burgers served with a side of live music on a Saturday. This local hot spot tends to get busy on the weekends, so if you prefer a quieter dining experience, maybe check it out on a weekday.
Dinosaur Valley State Park to Hico
- Drive time: 30 min
- Drive distance: 28.6mi
- What to do: Hico is a small but charming Texas town with a historic downtown square. Hico claims it is the final home of the famous outlaw Billy the Kid. Learn more about this famous outlaw’s story at Hico’s Billy the Kid Museum, or wander through the town’s antique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. The small town atmosphere is a great place for a slower-paced stop on this route from Austin to Dallas.
- Where to stay:
- $ – Hico Hills Inn offers affordable and comfortable rooms.
- $$ – Midland Hotel is a historic inn located right on the town square, perfect for staying a little longer to soak up the town’s character.
- $$$ – Consider a boutique guesthouse or Airbnb in the area for a more private stay with countryside views.
- Where to eat:
- Koffee Kup Family Restaurant is a must-visit, famous for its homemade pies and hearty comfort food.
- The Chop House is nestled inside the beautifully restored Midland Hotel. Serving beautiful Texas steaks, burgers, and salads.
- Craving something sweet? This 4 Ewe Bakery & Gifts has over 40 years of combined baking experience, crafting delicious homemade cupcakes, cookies, and candies.
Tip from the author: Hico makes a great lunch spot! Plan your trip for arrival around midday to enjoy a meal and stretch your legs before hitting the road again.
Hico to Lampasas
- Drive time: 1 hour
- Drive distance: 66mi
- What to do: Lampasas is known as the gateway to the northern Hill Country, with natural springs, more of that small-town charm, and a relaxing place to break up the drive. Take a dip in the Hancock Springs Pool, one of the oldest spring-fed pools in Texas. Perfect for nature lovers, enjoy a stroll through the Sculpture Garden at Hanna Springs, which mixes outdoor art with bubbling natural springs. History buffs will have fun exploring the Lampasas County Courthouse Square, lined with murals, historic buildings, and local shops.
- Where to stay:
- $ – Best Western Plus Lampasas Inn & Suites is a budget-friendly option with reliable amenities.
- $$ – The Inn at Lampasas is a simple, comfortable option closer to the town centre.
- $$$ – Private Hill Country ranches like Bent Tree Ranch offer self-contained Airbnb-style accommodation with stunning countryside views.
- Where to eat:
- Eve’s Cafe serves hearty German fare and sandwiches in a welcoming, family-run setting.
- Storm’s Drive-In is a retro-style burger joint that’s been a Lampasas favourite since the 1950s.
Tip from the author: If you’re travelling in summer, make time for Hancock Springs Pool; it’s the perfect way to cool off before the final leg into Austin.
Lampasas to Austin
- Drive time: 1 hour
- Drive distance: 68mi
- What to do: The last stretch of your road trip into Austin, the live music capital of the world. Once you arrive in the city, take time to stroll down South Congress Avenue for eclectic shops and eateries, or head to Lady Bird Lake for kayaking or paddleboarding with city skyline views. In the evening, catch a show at one of Austin’s iconic venues like the Continental Club or dive into the city’s famous BBQ scene.
- Where to stay:
- $ – Austin Motel, a quirky budget-friendly option on South Congress.
- $$ – Hotel Indigo, located in downtown Austin, for a central location.
- $$$ – The Driskill, Austin’s most historic luxury hotel, or the LINE Austin for modern riverfront views.
- Where to eat:
- Franklin Barbecue is legendary for brisket. Tip: get in early, as lines can be long!
- Torchy’s Tacos offers all the classics alongside local creative spins on the Texas staple.
- Home Slice Pizza is a local favourite if you’re craving a casual slice.
Tip from the author: Arrive in Austin hungry! The food scene is one of the highlights of the trip, including world-class BBQ and inventive Tex-Mex.
Top places to stop between Dallas and Austin
A good Texas road trip is never short of charming small towns, good food, and hidden gems. This road trip from Dallas through the Lone Star State is no exception. Packed with places worth pulling over for, here are some of the best stops and must-visit sites to add to your Texas city-to-city road trip.
Top stops for nature lovers
- Waco Mammoth National Monument: See the remains of Ice Age mammoths at this fascinating national monument.
- Inner Space Cavern (Georgetown): Explore the underground caves filled with fascinating formations.
- Krause Springs: A beloved swimming hole and camping spot with waterfalls and natural springs.
- Marble Falls: A Hill Country town surrounded by lakes and many trails, a great place for outdoor fun.
- Cedar Hill State Park: An outdoors enthusiast’s heaven. Just south of Dallas, this state park features hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities.
- Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge: This national park is a protected landscape with trails designed for fantastic birdwatching.
- Lake Whitney State Park: Located just north of Waco, this scenic park offers picturesque lake views and idyllic camping spots.
- Pedernales Falls State Park: Explore the cascading waterfalls and swimming spots with breathtaking views in the Texas Hill Country.
Top stops for families
- Cameron Park Zoo (Waco): A well-loved family fun attraction with diverse animal exhibits.
- Lake Travis Zipline Adventures: Take a break from the road and travel on the adrenaline highway. For the older kids or thrill seekers, Lake Travis Zipline is the longest in Texas.
- Waco Suspension Bridge: A pedestrian bridge with sculptures and walking paths, this is great for a quick stop with stunning views.
- Cinergy Copperas Cove: Family fun for all. Take your pick from bowling, arcade games, and movies.
- Mayborn Museum Complex (Waco): Explore indoors withhands-on exhibits and natural history displays.
Top stops for history buffs
- Fort Worth Stockyards: Classic Texas history with cattle drives, rodeos, and western heritage.
- Top O’ Hill Terrace: Known as Vegas Before Vegas, this history-packed place tells the story of an old Tea Room turning into a secret Texas gambling hot spot that lights up at night.
- Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum (Waco): Learn about the history of the legendary lawmen of Texas.
- Historic Downtown Georgetown: Explore and admire the Victorian architecture, antique stores, and courthouse square in this town full of history.
- Lampasas Country Courthouse Square: The history of this Courthouse Square is captured in stunning murals, historic buildings, and all its small-town charm.
- Billy the Kid Museum (Hico): A quirky museum highlighting Hico’s claim to the famous outlaw. A must-visit if you’re looking for something less mainstream to add to your trip.
Top stops for foodies
- Sweet Berry Farm (Marble Falls): Fun for the whole family with seasonal fruit picking and homemade sweet treats from Sweet Berry Farm.
- Dr Pepper Museum (Waco): Learn the history of the iconic soda and sample unique flavours at the home of it all, the Dr Pepper Museum in Waco, Texas.
- Koffee Kup Restaurant (Hico): Famous for its giant pies and classic comfort food, this is a must-visit for all foodies.
- Franklin Barbecue (Austin): Known for its legendary brisket that draws foodies from across the country.
- Torchy’s Tacos: A modern Texas taco staple, taking the iconic dish and putting their own fun spin on fresh new flavours.
- Eve’s Cafe (Lampasas): A family-owned German eatery serving traditional dishes alongside well-known favourites.
- Czech Stop & Little Czech Bakery (West Texas): Famous for their kolaches and pastries, located right off the I-35 highway.
- The Silos Baking Co. (Waco): Check out the famous Magnolia’s bakery for their irresistible cupcakes, cookies and plenty more.
- Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que (Lampasas): Classic Texas BBQ where you can pick your meat straight from the pit.
Frequently asked questions about the Dallas to Austin road trip
Is the drive from Austin to Dallas nice?
Yes – the route is straightforward, with smooth highway driving or scenic country backroads. There are plenty of small-town or nature stops along the way.
Is there a train that runs from Dallas to Austin?
You can travel from Dallas to Austin by rail. Amtrak’s Texas Eagle service connects to Dallas and Austin once daily, although it takes longer than driving.
Can I Uber from Austin to Dallas?
Yes, but it’s not very practical. The cost for a one-way trip would be very high compared to driving or renting a car, and you wouldn’t be able to be as flexible with where and how often you stop.
Is Austin closer to Dallas or Houston?
Austin is closer to Houston than Dallas. It’s approximately 165mi from Houston to Austin, and about 195mi from Dallas to Austin.
Is it worth driving from Dallas to Austin?
It is absolutely worth the drive. Whether you’re taking the direct route south on the I-35 Highway or going via the backroads, both options offer must-visit destinations.
How many days does it take to travel from Dallas to Austin?
You can do it in a single day, but spending 1–2 days gives you time to enjoy attractions along the way.
How long is the Dallas to Austin road trip?
The direct route is about 195mi, taking around 3 hours. The scenic backroads route is closer to 5-6 hours with stops.
Can you tackle the Dallas to Austin road trip in reverse?
Yes, the Austin to Dallas trip is just as popular, with the same great stops along the way.
Can I get from Dallas to Austin by train or bus?
You can take Dallas to Austin by rail via Amtrak or travel by Greyhound/Megabus. Driving is faster and more flexible.
Can I fly from Dallas to Austin?
Yes, nonstop flights take just under an hour, though the time spent at the airport often makes driving more convenient.
Final word: Planning the Dallas to Austin road trip of a lifetime
Whether you’re making the quick 3-hour dash down I-35 or taking the scenic route through Central Texas, the Dallas to Austin drive is a road trip worth taking. Along the way, you’ll find charming small towns, historic landmarks, and natural wonders that turn a simple journey into a memorable adventure.
Take some time to plan your stops, browse Turo for a Dallas rental car that fits your style, and set out to explore the Lone Star State at your own pace. From family SUVs to eco-friendly EVs, Turo makes it easy to hit the road on your terms. So pack your playlist, grab some road trip snacks, and make your Dallas to Austin journey uniquely yours.
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Isobelle Walker
Isobelle is a writer who is passionate about what's on her front doorstep - she has road tripped the length and width of the beautiful Aotearoa, New Zealand multiple times, and believes the best way to travel is with a good playlist, a full tank, and friends and family on board. Typically, from the passenger seat, Isobelle is the list maker. The curator of the best spots for food, shopping, and stretching your legs. A keen photographer, she's always taking the scenic route and stopping at every cute and quaint small town along the way.
