As the unofficial start of summer, Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to explore all that Texas has to offer. From scenic outdoor destinations to vibrant urban centers, there's something for everyone in the Lone Star State. And with Texas Shuttle's transportation services, getting around the state has never been easier. Here are some of the best places to visit in Texas during Memorial Day weekend, all easily accessible with Texas shuttle service.
San Antonio
If you're looking for a lively and historic city, San Antonio is the perfect destination. Check out the famous River Walk, where you can stroll along the river and enjoy shops, restaurants, and live music. For history buffs, the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park are must-visit sites. And with Texas Shuttle's shuttle services in Texas, you can easily get around the city without worrying about parking or traffic.
Austin
For music lovers and foodies, Austin is the place to be. Home to the famous South by Southwest festival, Austin boasts a vibrant music scene year-round. And with countless food trucks, trendy restaurants, and bars, there's always something new to try. Austin and San Antonio travel guide Take advantage of Texas Shuttle's shuttle services in Texas and enjoy the ride to Austin without worrying about navigating the busy city streets.
Galveston
For a beach getaway, head to Galveston, located on the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy miles of sandy beaches, historic architecture, and plenty of seafood restaurants. Catch the shuttle service from Houston to Galveston and take in the scenic views along the way.
Hill Country
If you're looking for a more scenic and laid-back destination, the Texas Hill Country is a must-visit. Explore charming small towns like Fredericksburg and Wimberley, or take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Hamilton Pool Preserve. With Texas Shuttle's transportation services, you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery without worrying about driving. Hill Country transportation services
Big Bend National Park
For outdoor enthusiasts, Big Bend National Park is a must-visit destination. Located in the southwestern corner of Texas, the park boasts stunning desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and the winding Rio Grande River. Book the shuttle service from El Paso to Big Bend and take in the breathtaking scenery along the way.
No matter where you choose to go in Texas during Memorial Day weekend, Texas Shuttle's shuttle services in Texas can help you get there safely and comfortably. Our affordable shuttle services in Texas make it easy to explore all that the Lone Star State has to offer, without breaking the bank. Book your Texas shuttle service today and get ready for an unforgettable Memorial Day weekend in Texas!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good spots for live music in San Antonio?
The River Walk in San Antonio is known for its lively music scene with various venues along the river.
Can I visit both Austin and San Antonio in one day?
Yes, you can explore both cities in a day using Texas Shuttle's services to navigate between them efficiently.
What are some must-visit places in Big Bend National Park?
Big Bend offers stunning desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and the Rio Grande River for visitors to enjoy.
Are there any good seafood options in Galveston?
Galveston is famous for its miles of sandy beaches and numerous seafood restaurants along the Gulf Coast.
More Texas Gems to Add to Your Memorial Day Weekend Itinerary
The destinations above are just the beginning. Texas is enormous — bigger than many countries in the world — and a long holiday weekend gives you just enough time to add one or two more stops to your route. Below are additional towns and cities that belong on any Texas Memorial Day weekend guide, along with practical notes on highways, landmarks, and how to link them together into one smooth trip.
South Padre Island
If Galveston is the classic family beach town, South Padre Island is the subtropical one. Sitting at the southern tip of the state near Brownsville, the island is famous for its wide, soft-sand beaches, calm Gulf waters, and wildlife experiences like sea turtle rescue centers and dolphin-watching cruises. Memorial Day weekend marks the true start of beach season here, and the town fills up fast, so plan lodging and transportation well before you leave. Travelers typically reach the island via Highway 100 from Harlingen or Brownsville, and those flying in can arrange ground transportation from Valley International Airport or Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport rather than renting a car for the short island stays.
New Braunfels
Located on the busy I-35 corridor between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels is one of Central Texas' favorite Memorial Day playgrounds. The Comal River — often called one of the shortest navigable rivers in the world — stays refreshingly cool all summer, and tubing down it has become a beloved Texas tradition. The larger Guadalupe River also runs through town, drawing paddlers and families with children looking for a gentle float. Downtown New Braunfels has a strong German heritage you can taste at local bakeries and see in the historic districts, and Gruene Historic District — home to the legendary Gruene Hall dance hall — is a short drive away. It makes an easy day trip if you're basing yourself in either of the bigger cities.
Galveston Island, In More Depth
Because Galveston is only about 50 miles south of Houston via I-45, it's one of the most convenient beach escapes in the state. Beyond the sand, visitors can stroll the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier amusement park, catch a show at the beautiful Grand 1894 Opera House, or explore the Aquarium Pyramid and Rainforest Pyramid at Moody Gardens — a hit with children and adults alike. History lovers should set aside time for The Strand downtown, where 19th-century architecture houses museums, shops, and restaurants. For a memorable side trip, head to the postcard-worthy 19th-century lighthouse at Bolivar Point across the channel. Since holiday traffic on I-45 can be heavy, a Houston-to-Galveston shuttle lets you skip the parking scramble entirely.
Arlington
Sitting roughly 20 minutes from both Dallas and Fort Worth, Arlington packs big-city entertainment into a mid-sized city. Sports fans know it as home to the Dallas Cowboys' AT&T Stadium and the Texas Rangers' Globe Life Field, and the surrounding Entertainment District adds restaurants and attractions within walking distance. For a quieter afternoon, the lush 1,031-acre River Legacy Park offers shaded trails along the Trinity River, and the River Legacy Living Science Center features an aquarium, nature exhibits, and a children's playground — an ideal stop for families traveling with kids. Arlington also makes a smart home base if you want to explore both Dallas and Fort Worth without paying downtown prices for lodging (always check current rates before you book).
Kerrville and the Guadalupe River
Kerrville anchors the western Hill Country along the Guadalupe River, reached most easily by following I-10 west from San Antonio or US 83 through the hills. The Kerrville River Trail runs along the water and connects parks, public art, and river access points — a relaxed way to spend a morning before the afternoon heat. Kerrville is also known for its Texas heritage museums and arts scene, and it serves as a quieter alternative to busier Hill Country towns during holiday weekends.
Fredericksburg and Wimberley
No Texas Memorial Day weekend guide is complete without these two small towns. Fredericksburg, about 70 miles west of Austin on US 290, blends German heritage with Texas hospitality — think Main Street museums, wineries, and the nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, where a short hike rewards you with sweeping Hill Country views. Wimberley, southwest of Austin, is built around a charming town square with artisan shops, galleries, and swimming holes like the famous Blue Hole Regional Park. Both towns host lively holiday events and seasonal markets around Memorial Day, so check local event calendars before your trip.
San Marcos
Halfway between Austin and San Antonio on I-35, San Marcos centers on one of the clearest spring-fed rivers in Texas. The San Marcos River begins at Spring Lake, where glass-bottom boat tours have operated for generations, and flows right through downtown past parks, cafes, and the historic Hays County courthouse square. The city is also a major outlet shopping destination, drawing bargain hunters from across Central Texas. Combine it with New Braunfels for a classic I-35 river weekend.
Burnet and Marble Falls
Known as the "Bluebonnet Capital of Texas," Burnet sits in the heart of the Highland Lakes region northwest of Austin. Nearby Longhorn Cavern State Park offers guided tours through a fascinating hillside cave, and the town square retains a wonderfully old-fashioned Texas feel. Just down the road, Marble Falls sits on the Colorado River at Lake Marble Falls, with lakeside parks, a walkable downtown, and easy access to Lake LBJ for boating and swimming. These towns pair naturally with Fredericksburg via scenic ranch roads, making a perfect Hill Country loop.
Quick Comparison: Which Texas Destination Fits Your Weekend?
| Destination | Vibe | Best For | Getting There |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Padre Island | Tropical beach | Beach lovers, wildlife tours | Highway 100 from the Rio Grande Valley |
| Galveston Island | Historic beach town | Families, history buffs | I-45 from Houston |
| Arlington | Big-league entertainment | Sports fans, kids | I-30 between Dallas and Fort Worth |
| New Braunfels | River town | Tubing, live music | I-35 between Austin and San Antonio |
| San Marcos | Spring-fed river | Swimming, outlet shopping | I-35 Central Texas corridor |
| Kerrville | Relaxed Hill Country | Trails, arts, museums | I-10 west of San Antonio |
| Fredericksburg | German heritage town | Wine, hiking, boutique shopping | US 290 west of Austin |
| Burnet / Marble Falls | Highland Lakes | Caves, lake days, scenic drives | US 281 / US northwest of Austin |
Memorial Day Weekend Travel Tips
Book transportation and lodging early
Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, and Texas beaches, rivers, and Hill Country towns sell out quickly. Reserve your shuttle, hotel, and any guided tours well before the holiday.
Plan around holiday traffic
Corridors like I-45 to Galveston and I-35 between Austin and San Antonio see heavy congestion on Friday afternoon and Monday evening. Leaving early or riding with a shuttle service instead of driving yourself can save hours.
Pack for heat and water
Late May in Texas is hot. Bring sunscreen, refillable water bottles, water shoes, and a light layer for air-conditioned museums and shops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is South Padre Island worth the drive for Memorial Day?
Yes — it offers some of the warmest Gulf water in Texas, plus wildlife experiences and wide beaches, though it's best suited to longer trips from South Texas hubs.
What is there to do in Arlington besides sports?
The 1,031-acre River Legacy Park and its Living Science Center offer trails, an aquarium, and playgrounds, while the Entertainment District adds dining and attractions near the stadiums.
Which Hill Country town is best for families with children?
Wimberley and Marble Falls are both family favorites thanks to swimming spots, easy walks, and relaxed downtown squares.
Can I visit New Braunfels and San Marcos in one day?
Absolutely — they're only a short drive apart on I-35, making it easy to float one river in the morning and shop downtown in the afternoon.
How far is Galveston from Houston?
Roughly 50 miles south via I-45, typically about an hour's drive without heavy holiday traffic.
Do I need a car in the Hill Country?
A shuttle can handle airport and city-to-city legs, while local attractions like Fredericksburg's Main Street and Wimberley's square are walkable once you arrive.
