If you’re planning a road trip from Houston to Austin, you’re in for a treat. This route takes you through some of Texas’s most beautiful countryside and offers a wide variety of stops to make along the way. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, you’ll find it all on this drive.
Hertz
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Enterprise
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Fox Rent-A-Car
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Houston to Austin Drive
Driving from Houston to Austin will take you approximately 2 hours and 59 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 165.3 miles (266 km). The fastest and most direct route is to take I-10 West to Katy, then take the 71 West exit to Austin.
If you’re looking for a more scenic drive, consider taking Highway 290 West instead. This route will take you through some picturesque towns, including Brenham, known for its Blue Bell ice cream, and the charming German town of Fredericksburg.
Houston to Austin: How far is Houston from Austin?
The distance from Houston to Austin is approximately 165 miles. It takes around 2 hours and 59 minutes to drive from Houston to Austin, depending on traffic conditions and your chosen route.
How far is Houston to Austin by plane?
The flight distance from Houston to Austin is around 140 miles (225.3 km). The flight time from Houston to Austin is around 1 hour.
There are several airlines that operate flights between these two cities, including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.
What is the time difference between Houston and Austin?
There is no time difference between Houston and Austin. Both cities are located in the Central Time Zone (CT) and observe daylight saving time.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Houston
The cheapest way to get from Houston to Austin is by bus. Several bus companies offer trips between these two cities, including Greyhound, Megabus, and Flixbus. The cost of a one-way ticket can be as low as $30.90, making this a budget-friendly option for travelers.
Houston to Austin Drive – Rent A Car In Houston
If you’re planning a road trip from Houston to Austin, renting a car is a convenient option. Here are some rental car companies that offer car rental services in Houston:
- Alamo: starts at $51 per day
- Avis: starts at $45 per day
- Budget: starts at $41 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $51 per day
- Hertz: starts at $46 per day
- National: starts at $49 per day
Gas prices will vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $44 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $2.932 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Houston to Austin – Driving Stops Along The Way
Here are some recommended stops you can make along the way:
Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site
If you’re a history buff, the Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site is a must-see. This site is where Texas declared its independence from Mexico in 1836. Visitors can explore the Star of the Republic Museum, the Barrington Living History Farm, and the Independence Hall.
Blue Bell Creameries
If you take Highway 290 West, you’ll pass through Brenham, the home of Blue Bell Creameries. This ice cream company is famous for its delicious flavors, and you can take a tour of the creamery to learn more about the ice cream-making process.
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
If you’re interested in politics and history, a visit to the Lyndon
B. Johnson National Historical Park is a must. Located in Stonewall, this park preserves the birthplace, home, ranch, and final resting place of President Johnson. Visitors can tour the Johnson family’s ranch, known as the “Texas White House,” and see the former President’s grave site.
Fredericksburg
Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a charming German town that is known for its wineries, galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can stroll down Main Street and browse the shops, visit the National Museum of the Pacific War, or take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a beautiful park located just outside of Fredericksburg. The park is home to a massive pink granite dome that rises 425 feet above the surrounding terrain. Visitors can hike to the top of the dome for stunning views of the Texas Hill Country.
Final Destination – Austin
Once you arrive in Austin, there is no shortage of things to see and do. From the live music scene on Sixth Street to the beautiful Lady Bird Lake, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Some must-see attractions include the Texas State Capitol, the Blanton Museum of Art, and the Barton Springs Pool.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the road trip from Houston to Austin is a scenic and enjoyable journey through the heart of Texas. Whether you choose to take the direct route on I-10 or the more picturesque Highway 290, there are plenty of stops and attractions along the way to explore, from historical sites like Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site to culinary delights like Blue Bell Creameries. With a driving time of approximately 2.5 hours, this road trip is perfect for a weekend getaway or a day trip. No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone on the Houston to Austin drive.