$3399
South Texas Spur
An epic 14-day road trip through the southern region of Texas. Begin the journey by exploring the cosmopolitan side of Texas from its largest city to the State's capitol, before driving through the famous Texas Hill Country. Dive into the cowboy culture and Hispanic heritage that help shaped the Lone Star State, before finishing the trip along the Gulf Coast.
Deal Includes
✔ 15 days rental car
✔ 14 nights accommodation
South Texas Spur
From $3399 per person share twin
Based on Select Departures between: 10-31 Oct24
Ask us about other departure dates.
Itinerary
Day 1: Houston arrival
Travel through time and expand your mind at the Houston Museum District home to many world class museums, gardens and parks. Start your adventure at the Sam Houston Statue (the father of Texas and Houston's namesake). Later on, head to the ION District for bites and drinks. The completed phase 1 houses multiple dining and drink establishments, including The Lymbar, an all-day neighborhood craft cocktail bar and restaurant with Latin and Mediterranean flavors from local chef David Cordua.
Day 2: Houston - Austin
As you drive into Austin take I-35 North from Highway 71 West to get a great view of the downtown and capital. Experience Lady Bird Lake's allure with a 10-mile loop trail, including the iconic boardwalk for stunning downtown skyline views. Cap off the afternoon with a sunset bat cruise with Capital Cruises. Watch as over one million Mexican free-tailed bats take flight from under the Congress Avenue Bridge for their nightly feast. A top attraction in Austin, hundreds of people line the bridge nightly to catch a glimpse of this natural phenomenon. The best viewing times are from March-October.
Day 3: Austin
Stroll down Rainey Street, where bungalow-style houses have been converted into trendy bars and food trucks. Try Craft Pride for a Texas craft beer experience or Bungalow for a cozy backyard vibe. No trip to Austin is complete without a little BBQ. Stop at the famed Terry Black's along Barton Springs Road. Take the opportunity to dive into the heart of live music at the Red River Cultural District, where iconic venues like Mohawk Austin, Barracuda, and Antone's host an array of performances spanning various genres. Expect an electrifying atmosphere and some of the city's best bands.
Day 4: Austin - San Marcos
Today take a short drive to San Marcos. Go deep underground in an earthquake formed cave at Wonder World Park. Take the Stratavator high into the sky to the Tejas Observation Tower where you can see for miles. Explore The Heart of San Marcos in downtown San Marcos. Certainly, a colorful destination, and we aren't just talking about our vibrant natural colors either... San Marcos has a blossoming art scene, and you can find an ever-growing collection of murals, sculptures, galleries, and more.
Day 5: San Marcos - San Antonio
For breakfast stay in the heart of San Marcos and try for example the Root Cellar Cafe, a quaint restaurant with San Marcos flair homestyle classics. Go explore native wildlife and migratory birds abound in 2,100 acres of natural areas in San Marcos' city limits such as Purgatory Creek Natural Area. Then hit the road for a short drive to San Antonio.
Day 6: San Antonio
Start your day at Hemisfair. It is an urban park with eclectic dining options including brunch, and dinner with additional libation experiences as well. Explore the Alamo, an iconic historical site that played a significant role in Texas history and is part of the city's UNESCO World Heritage site. Embark on a scenic riverboat cruise along the San Antonio River Walk. While on the River Walk's Downtown Reach, choose among many of the alfresco dining options under a canopy of beautiful trees and along the stone walkway paths.
Day 7: San Antonio - Bandera
Drive to the Natural Bridge Caverns, where you can take a guided tour to explore the stunning underground formations. Opt for the Discovery Tour to see the largest underground chambers. From there it is a short drive to Bandera, often referred to as the "Cowboy Capital of the World," offers a rich Western experience with numerous options for wagon rides and horseback riding adventures.
Day 8: Bandera - Laredo
Today the road takes you to Laredo. Stroll along the scenic Laredo Riverfront, which features beautiful parks, walking trails, and picnic areas. The area comes alive during festivals and events, providing a lively atmosphere. Continue your exploration with these museums and attractions that offer a diverse range of experiences, from cultural immersion to astronomical wonders, making your visit to Laredo both educational and enjoyable.
Day 9: Laredo - Corpus Christi
Leave Laredo for Corpus Christi. Head straight to the beach on Padre Island National Seashore. The most significant undeveloped barrier island in the world is 30 miles south of Mustang Island State Park. The Padre Island National Seashore offers more than 130,000 acres of dunes, grasslands, and beaches - a national park and a haven for all sorts of family-friendly activities, it's an untouched paradise of federally-protected wildlife.
Day 10: Corpus Christi
If you are looking for a unique aquarium experience, the Texas State Aquarium is guaranteed to leave you in awe with 15+ exhibits displaying dolphins, sharks, jellyfish, and jungle animals and the Wildlife Rescue Center. The historic USS Lexington is a must do when visiting Corpus Christi! Escape rooms, Flight Deck experiences, flight simulators, and more, you can expect a day full of fun.
Day 11: Corpus Christi - Port Aransas
Enjoy the drive to Port Aransas and have a delicious lunch at the marina-side restaurant, Trout Street Bar & Grill. Savor a delightful lunch. Satisfy your sense of adventure by getting wet and going full throttle with Port Aransas jet ski rentals.
Day 12: Port Aransas - Galveston
Upon arriving in Galveston, you'll find a plethora of activities to immerse yourself in the charm of the Oleander City. Head over to Pleasure Pier, a thrilling waterside theme park with a wide array of exhilarating rides and delicious dining options. Galveston has several venues that feature live music performances. Check out places like The Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe, Yaga's Cafe, and Old Cellar Bar for live music nights.
Day 13: Galveston - Beaumont
Enjoy the sunrise with a leisurely stroll along the shoreline of Galveston before heading to Beaumont. On the way, check out Space Center Houston, an iconic destination for space enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Arriving in Beaumont, cruise around Old Town and take a look at some of the historical homes and the latest murals.
Day 14: Beaumont - Houston
Today you drive back to Houston. Go explore the Heights neighborhood's main street, a delightful way to experience local shopping and dining in Houston. You can discover unique boutiques and savor local cuisine. If you're a fan of craft beer, make sure to visit Karbach Brewery for some of Texas's famous brews. Additionally, Rice Village offers a diverse shopping experience with outdoor cafes, multicultural restaurants, and local boutiques, providing a vibrant atmosphere.
Day 15: Houston Departure
Today your adventure ends upon check-out from the hotel in Houston. Return your rental car at the airport.
Customise this itinerary to travel at your own pace.
Note: Road tolls, one way rental car fees, fuel, meals, hotel parking charges, admission fees and surcharges are paid direct.
Our packages are based on dynamic pricing which means you get the best available rates of the day at the time of booking. Pricing is subject to current availability and pricing may change without notice.
Visit your local House of Travel store for more information on travel dates, pricing & inclusions.
Highlights worth seeing along the way
Houston - Discover Houston's Museum District, gardens and parks or check out the Space Center.
Austin - Explore the famous food trucks and live music in Austin.
San Antonio River Walk - Embark on a scenic riverboat cruise along the San Antonio River Walk.
Bandera - Visit Bandera the "Cowboy Capital of the World."
Corpus Christi - Head straight to the beach in Corpus Christi.
Galveston - Stroll along the shoreline of Galveston.
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Terms and Conditions
Valid for new bookings only for sales until sold out. Availability and pricing is current as at 23 Apr 24. • Pricing is based on dynamic pricing which means you get the best available rates of the day at the time of booking. Pricing is subject to current availability and pricing may change without notice until time of confirmation. Prices may vary due to a number of factors including tax and surcharge increases, exchange rate movements and availability • Full payment is required at time of booking. • Prices are per person, twin share, in NZ dollars for cash or eftpos purchase only • Travel must be commenced and completed as specified • Accommodation is limited and is subject to availability at time of booking • Some surcharges and closeouts may apply. • Twin share is two adults travelling together and sharing a room using existing bedding. • Rental car is based on an Intermediate SUV, Nissan Rouge (or similar) and excludes road tolls, one way rental car fees, fuel, meals, hotel parking charges • Admission fees and surcharges are paid direct.• Packages are based on consecutive night stays at specified hotel – should your needs differ please ask your House of Travel consultant • Amendment and cancellation fees apply. • Please ask your House of Travel consultant for full terms and conditions.
HOT Code: CMPBUSA2904
