Scenic Drive: San Antonio to Austin with Key Stops

Day 1: San Antonio to Austin Road Trip

San Antonio to Austin, Texas, USA on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Magnolia Pancake Haus

Start your morning in San Antonio with a hearty breakfast at Magnolia Pancake Haus, famous for their German pancakes and fresh pastries. A great way to fuel up before the drive.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Drive to New Braunfels

Take a short 30-minute scenic drive northeast to New Braunfels, a charming town known for its German heritage and beautiful river.
USD0, 30m

10:00am

Explore Gruene Historic District

Walk around the Gruene Historic District, enjoy unique shops, and check out the famous Gruene Hall, Texas' oldest dance hall. Open daily from 10am to 6pm.
USD0, 1h

11:00am

Visit Schlitterbahn Waterpark (seasonal)

If the weather is warm, enjoy some fun at Schlitterbahn Waterpark, open from 10am to 6pm. Otherwise, relax by the Guadalupe River nearby.
USD60, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar

Dine in a rustic setting overlooking the Guadalupe River. They serve classic Texas dishes with fresh ingredients, making it a perfect lunch stop.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Drive to Austin

Continue the drive north for about 1.5 hours on I-35 to arrive in Austin.
USD0, 1h30m

3:30pm

Check-in and explore South Congress Avenue

After settling in your accommodation, stroll along South Congress Avenue to explore local shops, galleries, and street art. Open all day, shops typically close around 7pm.
USD0, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Home Slice Pizza

Enjoy casual dining with authentic New York-style pizzas, open until 10pm. A local favorite perfect for a relaxed first night in Austin.
USD20, 1h
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