Epic Texas Road Trip: Dallas to Austin to NASA to The Woodlands Adventure

Day 1: Dallas to Austin

Dallas to Austin, Texas, USA on April 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cedar Grove

Enjoy a hearty southern-style breakfast at Cedar Grove, located in the Dallas Arboretum, known for its fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Perfect to fuel up for the road ahead.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive from Dallas to Austin

The drive south on I-35 takes approximately 3 hours. Enjoy scenic Texas landscapes along the way, with options to stop for quick breaks if needed.
USD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Franklin Barbecue

Sample some of the best BBQ Texas has to offer at Franklin Barbecue, a beloved Austin institution. Expect a flavorful lunch, but plan to arrive early as lines can be long.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Zilker Park

Relax and stroll through Zilker Metropolitan Park, a spacious urban park with botanical gardens, trails, and scenic views of downtown Austin.
USD0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at hotel in Austin

Settle into your accommodation in downtown Austin to easily access dining and attractions.
USD0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Uchi

Experience upscale Japanese cuisine with a Texas twist at Uchi, one of Austin's premier sushi restaurants. Reservations recommended.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Austin to NASA

Austin to Houston, Texas, USA on April 18, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Juan in a Million

Enjoy a classic Tex-Mex breakfast featuring famous breakfast tacos at this vibrant Austin spot.
USD15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive from Austin to NASA Johnson Space Center

Travel approximately 2.5 to 3 hours southeast to Houston's NASA Johnson Space Center, home to fascinating space exploration exhibits.
USD0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at NASA Space Center Cafe

Dine conveniently within the Space Center with a variety of casual options that allow you to savor a meal without leaving the site.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

NASA Johnson Space Center Tour

Explore interactive space exploration exhibits, see astronaut training facilities, and learn about NASA missions. Open daily 9:00AM to 5:00PM.
USD30, 3 hours

4:30PM

Drive to The Woodlands

Head north about 45 minutes to The Woodlands, a premier community known for shopping and outdoor activities.
USD0, 45 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Trellis

Enjoy farm-to-fork American dishes with Southern accents at Trellis in The Woodlands, perfect for a relaxing dining experience.
USD45, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Explore The Woodlands

The Woodlands, Texas, USA on April 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake House

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring fluffy pancakes and classic favorites in a cozy setting.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Walk or bike the Woodlands Waterway Trail

Enjoy scenic nature views along the peaceful waterway trail that winds through The Woodlands community.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit The Woodlands Mall

Browse a large variety of shops and boutiques, perfect for souvenir shopping and comfortable indoor exploration.
USD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hughes Landing

Dine at one of several upscale restaurants overlooking Lake Woodlands, with diverse cuisine choices in a vibrant atmosphere.
USD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at Market Street

Explore outdoor shopping, entertainment, and people watch in this charming town center filled with shops and cafes.
USD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return and prepare for departure or extend stay

Use the late afternoon to pack up or enjoy the hotel amenities for a restful evening.
USD0, Flexible

7:00PM

Dinner at Truluck’s Seafood Steak and Crab House

Savor premium seafood and steak in an elegant setting, perfect for a memorable last night dinner in The Woodlands.
USD60, 2 hours
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