Scenic Road Trip to Austin: Top Stops for Food, Culture, and Nature

Day 1: Drive and Explore Waco

Waco, Texas, USA on May 20, 2025

4:00pm

Breakfast at Magnolia Table

Start your journey with a hearty breakfast at Magnolia Table, a popular spot by Chip and Joanna Gaines known for its farmhouse-style cooking and fresh ingredients. It opens at 7:00 AM, but since you will arrive later, you can plan breakfast here on your return or next morning if heading back this way.
USD15, 0h45m

1:30pm

Visit the Dr Pepper Museum

Explore the history of the famous soft drink at the Dr Pepper Museum, located in downtown Waco. The museum offers interactive exhibits and fun facts about the brand. It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
USD10, 1h30m

3:30pm

Stroll at Cameron Park

Enjoy a relaxing walk at Cameron Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Texas, which features trails along the Brazos River and beautiful wooded areas.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at George's Restaurant and Bar

Dine at George's Restaurant and Bar, known for classic American dishes with a southern twist. It is open until 9:00 PM and makes for a fantastic meal before continuing your trip.
USD25, 1h

Day 2: Georgetown to Austin

Georgetown and Austin, Texas, USA on May 21, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Monument Cafe in Georgetown

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Monument Cafe, serving a variety of classic and creative breakfast dishes made from scratch. It opens at 7:00 AM.
USD12, 1h

10:30am

Explore Inner Space Cavern

Take a guided tour of Inner Space Cavern, a spectacular underground cave with impressive formations. Tours run from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and last about 1 hour.
USD22, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Hopper Restaurant and Bar

Enjoy fresh, locally-sourced dishes at Hopper, offering contemporary American cuisine in Georgetown.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Drive to Austin and Check-in

Drive approx 30 minutes south to Austin and settle into your accommodation.
Variable, 0h30m

3:00pm

Visit the Texas State Capitol

Tour this iconic building known for its stunning architecture and learn about Texas history. The Capitol is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Franklin Barbecue

Experience one of Austin's most famous barbecue spots. Be aware it closes around 10:00 AM or sells out early, so if you want the authentic breakfast line experience, plan accordingly, or alternatively, visit La Barbecue which is open for dinner.
USD30, 1h

Day 3: Explore Austin

Austin, Texas, USA on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Juan in a Million

Start your day with a legendary Tex-Mex breakfast from Juan in a Million, open from 7:00 AM.
USD10, 1h

9:30am

Visit Barton Springs Pool and Zilker Park

Relax by the natural spring-fed pool and explore the extensive Zilker Metropolitan Park, a great place for outdoor leisure and views of downtown Austin.
USD5 for pool entry, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Torchy's Tacos

Enjoy Austin’s signature street-style tacos at Torchy’s, known for inventive combinations and bold flavors.
USD15, 1h

1:30pm

Tour the Bullock Texas State History Museum

Dive into the rich history of Texas with interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater. Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
USD13, 2h

4:00pm

Walk along South Congress Avenue

Explore quirky shops, local art, and cafes on this famous street for a true Austin vibe experience.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Uchiko

Savor high-end Japanese dining with innovative dishes at Uchiko, open for dinner starting at 5:00 PM.
USD50, 2h