Dallas To San Antonio Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide

Dallas to San Antonio road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA. The 274 miles of Dallas to San Antonio drive takes around 4 hours without stops.

This article includes 15 tips that turn your Dallas to San Antonio drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Dallas to San Antonio, take your coffee and keep reading!

5 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Dallas To San Antonio

On the Dallas to San Antonio road trip, you may want to stay at some points. Here are the top five hotels on the Dallas – San Antonio route!

1. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hillsboro

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hillsboro is one of the best hotels; you can stay on the Dallas to San Antonio road trip. Driving from Dallas to La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hillsboro might take around 55 mins.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hillsboro in Hillsboro, Texas is a great place to stay during a road trip from Dallas to San Antonio. The hotel’s location, right off the highway, makes it an easy stopover for travelers. The staff is friendly and welcoming, always willing to help guests with any needs they may have. The rooms are clean, spacious, and equipped with all the amenities one could need, including a microwave and refrigerator. The hotel also offers a range of facilities, including a fitness center, meeting room, and guest laundry area. One of the highlights of the stay is the Free Bright Side BreakfastTM, which offers a variety of tasty options to start the day off right. The outdoor pool and Jacuzzi are perfect for unwinding after a long day on the road. Overall, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hillsboro is a top-notch hotel that provides guests with everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Highly recommended for anyone passing through the area!

Check the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hillsboro, one of the best hotels in Hillsboro, Texas, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.

2. Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor, an IHG Hotel

Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to San Antonio from Dallas is Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor, an IHG Hotel. Located in Waco, Texas, the hotel is 93.8 miles away from Dallas, and it would take 1 hour and 24 mins to drive.

Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor is a great spot for a one-night stopover on a road trip from Dallas to San Antonio. Checking in and out was easy, and our room on the fourth floor was comfortable and clean. While we opted to dine at the nearby Brazos restaurant for dinner, we did enjoy a nightcap at the hotel bar, which had a nice ambiance. The hotel’s central location puts you right in the heart of downtown Waco’s business district, with easy access to local shops, restaurants, and the Brazos Riverwalk. If you’re a fan of Chip and Joanna Gaines, the hotel is just a short walk from their famous Magnolia Market. Although the food at the hotel was good, it was a bit pricey, and the room lights could have been a bit brighter. Overall, Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor is a good option for anyone looking for a comfortable place to rest on their road trip, with plenty of nearby attractions to explore.

If you want to learn more about the Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor, an IHG Hotel, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com.

3. Hampton Inn Temple

Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Hampton Inn Temple. Hampton Inn Temple is located in Temple, Texas, and it’s 130 miles away from Dallas. You can arrive there in 1 hour and 56 mins of non-stop driving.

Hampton Inn Temple in Temple, Texas, is a reliable and consistent option for anyone on a road trip from Dallas to San Antonio. The lobby and room were both well-maintained and clean, and the staff provided excellent service throughout our stay. We were pleased to find that the room’s AC had been turned on before our arrival, making for a comfortable and refreshing welcome. The only downside was the hotel’s entrance, which was a bit difficult to access due to its location behind several fast-food restaurants. However, this was a minor issue compared to the overall quality of the hotel. Our room was very quiet, ensuring a restful night’s sleep on the clean and comfortable Hampton bed. Breakfast was also very good, and we appreciated the convenience of having a Texas Roadhouse right across the parking lot for supper. The hotel’s central location between Waco and Austin made it easy to access Interstate 35, as well as shops, entertainment, and restaurants at the nearby Temple Colonial Mall. Overall, we enjoyed our stay at Hampton Inn Temple and would recommend it to anyone in need of a comfortable and reliable place to rest on their road trip.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hampton Inn Temple, for more information.

4. Fairmont Austin

If you are taking the road trip from Dallas to San Antonio, Austin, Texas is must have a place you should visit. Plus, Fairmont Austin is one of the best hotels in town. The hotel is 195 miles from Dallas, and it would take 2 hours and 52 mins to drive.

Fairmont Austin is a fantastic hotel with excellent amenities and top-notch service. The rooms are luxurious and provide breathtaking views of the city and Lady Bird Lake. The food served at the hotel is some of the best I have tasted in a hotel. The staff is very friendly, and they go above and beyond to make your stay comfortable. The location is perfect for exploring Austin, with Historic Rainey Street, lively Sixth Street, and the State Capitol just a short walk away. The spa is also an award-winning one, and the meeting facilities are state-of-the-art. The only issue I encountered was the wet bathroom due to the shower’s poor sealing, but it was fixed within an hour and of my report. Overall, I highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Austin.

If you need more info about the price and availability of Fairmont Austin, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

5. Hotel Valencia Riverwalk

Our next hotel is Hotel Valencia Riverwalk, San Antonio, Texas. It will take 4 hours of car ride o reach this hotel from Dallas.

Hotel Valencia Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas, was an exceptional stay on our road trip. The hotel’s friendly staff provided top-notch service, and our room was spacious and comfortable. The beds were especially cozy, and we had a great night’s sleep. The location was perfect, situated on the quieter part of the River Walk, yet still close to all the action. We enjoyed exploring the dining, entertainment, and shopping options along the river, as well as nearby attractions like the Pearl District. The hotel’s attention to service was evident throughout our stay, from the helpful staff who went out of their way to assist us, to the well-maintained property. We will be returning to Hotel Valencia Riverwalk on our next trip to San Antonio.

Check the Hotel Valencia Riverwalk on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hotel Valencia Riverwalk for reviews, prices, and availability.

In this part, we explained five hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Dallas to San Antonio. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by commenting on this post. It will help people who will take Dallas to the San Antonio route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Dallas to San Antonio. We have five restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

5 Best Restaurants On The Dallas To San Antonio Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Dallas to San Antonio road trip. This section lists five restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Dallas to San Antonio. Stay hungry and enjoy!

1. Lone Star Cafe, Hillsboro

We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on Dallas to San Antonio road trip with Lone Star Cafe, Hillsboro. Lone Star Cafe, Hillsboro is located in Hillsboro, Texas, and is 60.4 miles from Dallas. It would take 57 mins of driving.

I recently had the pleasure of stopping by the Lone Star Cafe in Hillsboro during my road trip from Dallas to San Antonio. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The chicken fried chicken and onion rings were delicious, and the waitstaff was friendly and attentive. The restaurant was a bit busy when we arrived, but we were seated promptly and our orders were taken in due time. The food arrived in a reasonable amount of time and tasted great. I especially enjoyed the Redfish tacos, which had just the right amount of spice. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, making for a great dining experience. If you find yourself driving through Hillsboro, I highly recommend stopping by the Lone Star Cafe for a tasty meal.

For more information about Lone Star Cafe, Hillsboro, you can visit TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Lone Star Cafe, Hillsboro.

2. Cafe Homestead, Waco

Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to San Antonio from Dallas is Cafe Homestead, Waco. Located in Waco, Texas, Cafe Homestead, Waco is 90.2 miles from Dallas and would take 1 hour and 23 mins of driving.

Cafe Homestead in Waco, Texas is a must-visit for any foodie on a road trip. From the moment we arrived, the wait staff was exceptional – friendly and efficient. The food was simply delicious, especially the pastrami sandwich and chicken salad sandwich. And let’s not forget about the carrot cake – it was simply divine! I highly recommend making a reservation as this place gets quite busy. Cafe Homestead serves fresh and natural food true to its traditional farming community setting at Homestead Heritage. With pasture-raised beef, fresh bread, and house-made sauces and condiments, this restaurant has been a beloved fixture in Waco since 1994. While you’re there, make sure to tour the farm, gardens, and craft shops, and take a scenic hayride overlooking the Brazos River. The cafe also offers convenient features like free parking and free Wi-Fi. All in all, Cafe Homestead is a true gem on any road trip through Texas.

If you want to learn more about Cafe Homestead, Waco, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

3. Buc-ee’s, Temple

Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Buc-ee’s, Temple. It will take 1 hour and 51 mins of car drive to take 125 miles from Dallas to Buc-ee’s, Temple, Temple, Texas.

Buc-ee’s in Temple, Texas is a must-stop on any road trip. Although it’s not a traditional restaurant, the food options are abundant, with ready-made sandwiches, salads, snacks, and a full menu to choose from. The brisket sandwiches are the highlight and not to be missed. The store itself is massive, with plenty of shopping opportunities for souvenirs and other items, making it a great spot to stretch your legs and take a break from the drive. Just be prepared for crowds, as this place is a tourist attraction in its own right. Despite the hustle and bustle, the service is friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere is lively and fun. Vegetarian options are available for those who need them. If you’re in the area, be sure to make a pit stop at Buc-ee’s for some delicious food and Texas-sized fun!

You can check Buc-ee’s, Temple, on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information.

4. Stella San Jac, Austin

Stella San Jac, Austin deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Austin, Texas.

Stella San Jac is a must-visit restaurant on your drive from Dallas to San Antonio, located in the heart of Austin, Texas. From the moment we stepped in, we were greeted with exceptional hospitality from our server, who provided us with excellent menu suggestions. We tried the chicken and waffles, and it was the best we’ve ever had! The eclectic Southern cuisine embodies Austin’s unique culture and flavors, and the attention to detail in every dish is impressive. The arugula beet salad is a must-try, and we highly recommend the seared chicken for a delicious main course. The ambiance was cozy and intimate, making for an unforgettable dining experience. If you have dietary restrictions, no worries, as they offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options on their menu. The restaurant also features private dining and valet parking, adding to the overall convenience. We loved everything about Stella San Jac and cannot wait to come back for more amazing food and excellent service.

Stella San Jac, Austin is 195 miles from Dallas, and it would take 2 hours and 54 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Stella San Jac, Austin, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

5. Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse, San Antonio

If you enjoy dining, Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse, San Antonio, would be an excellent choice in San Antonio, Texas. It’s 269 miles from Dallas and would take 3 hours and 58 mins of car driving.

Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse in San Antonio, Texas is a must-visit restaurant on your road trip. The quality of the food and service is exceptional. The salad bar is filled with fresh and delicious options, and the meats are of the highest quality. The lamb was a standout dish that left a lasting impression. The cheesecake was also amazing, but unfortunately, I couldn’t finish it due to the generous portions. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for gathering with friends and family, but it might not be the best place for a romantic date due to the noise level. The Brazilian Lemonade, a refreshing combination of lemonade and sweetened condensed milk, is a must-try. Overall, Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse offers a unique and delicious dining experience that you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to add it to your road trip itinerary.

If you want to learn more about the Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse, San Antonio you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

This section lists our five restaurant recommendations for your road trip from Dallas to San Antonio. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 274 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a San Antonio road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from Dallas to San Antonio. Keep reading.

5 Places To Visit On The Dallas To San Antonio Drive

A unique experience awaits you in San Antonio. However, there are also some unique destinations like Hillsboro, Texas on your road trip. We want to explain the top five destinations we recommend on the San Antonio route.

1. Roadside America Museum

Roadside America Museum will be the first destination we recommend you stop by on your Dallas to San Antonio road trip. Located in Hillsboro, Texas, Roadside America Museum is 61.8 miles away from Dallas, and it would take 58 mins to drive.

Roadside America Museum in Hillsboro, Texas, is a must-visit destination on your road trip. The museum is a treasure trove of pop culture memorabilia that will leave you in awe. The owner’s collection of old cars and trucks is restored beautifully and looks stunning. The museum is fascinating, and the owner gave us an entertaining and informative tour of the first floor. We called the number on the sign, and he arrived within minutes to let us in. The history of this museum is impressive, and you can take photos with iconic pop cultures characters like Mr. Peanut and the Looney Tunes Gang. Every corner of the room has something cool and memorable to see, making it worth the stop, especially if you appreciate classic cars and pop culture.

If you want to learn more about the Roadside America Museum, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

2. Dr. Pepper Museum

Dr. Pepper Museum, Waco, Texas is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on the Dallas to San Antonio route. It’s 94.3 miles from Dallas, and it’ll take about 1 hour and 26 mins of driving.

Dr. Pepper Museum in Waco, Texas is a must-visit destination for soda lovers and history buffs alike. The museum provides a fascinating look at the history of soda shops and the role that Waco played in the early days of Dr. Pepper. The exhibits are well-documented and feature a carefully curated selection of soft drink memorabilia, which changes regularly to keep things fresh. The soda fountain and gift shop are open to all visitors, and there are plenty of photo opportunities outside the museum, including an original 1940s delivery truck and a hand-painted advertising sign. While the free Dr. Pepper at the end of the tour was a bit watered down, the overall experience was still enjoyable and informative. I highly recommend this museum as a great stop on any road trip through Texas.

If you want to learn more about Dr. Pepper Museum, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website.

3. Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum

One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Dallas to San Antonio is Temple, Texas. And if you visit Temple, Texas, we suggest you visit Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum. You can arrive at Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum after 1 hour and 56 mins of driving.

The Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in railroad history. Not only is it an operating Amtrak station, but the museum itself is filled with amazing displays that include interactive components and actual artifacts. The scavenger hunt featuring hobo symbols was a particular hit with the kids, and I loved the temporary exhibit of Harper’s Weekly illustrations. The museum is small but packed with interesting items, and admission is only $4, making it an affordable stop on your road trip. Though we were a bit disappointed that we couldn’t explore the passenger trains on our visit, we were told that they are only open on certain days. Even without seeing the trains, we were there for two hours, and we never got bored. Plus, the museum has a small gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs from your visit. All in all, the Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum is a great place to visit for a fun and educational experience.

You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum for more information.

4. Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail

Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, Austin, Texas on the Dallas to San Antonio road trip. Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail is 196 miles from Dallas, and you can arrive there after the 2 hours and 56 mins of drive.

Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail in Austin, Texas is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The trail offers breathtaking views of Lady Bird Lake and Austin’s skyline, as well as access to various parks, bridges, and landmarks. Whether you prefer biking, hiking, or running, this urban trail is perfect for all levels of fitness. It’s no wonder why this trail is a favorite among both locals and tourists. The trail is well-maintained and dog-friendly, and the lush greenery and peaceful lakes make for a serene and enjoyable experience. Although it can get busy on the weekends, it’s still worth the visit. You might even make some feathered friends along the way, as there are plenty of birds to see and hear. If you’re driving from Dallas to San Antonio, be sure to make a stop at Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail and take in the beautiful scenery.

In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail before going there.

5. Natural Bridge Caverns

Located in San Antonio, Texas, Natural Bridge Caverns ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from Dallas to San Antonio. You must take 3 hours and 56 mins of driving to arrive at Natural Bridge Caverns.

Natural Bridge Caverns in San Antonio is a must-visit attraction for those who love adventure and exploring the beauty of nature. The tour guide was knowledgeable and passionate about the formations in the cave, making the experience even more enjoyable. The formations were breathtaking, with stunning lighting that highlighted the unique features of each room. One of the rooms was especially memorable, unlike anything I’d ever seen before. The tour took us down 180ft and back up, providing a thrilling and memorable experience. The price of the tour was worth it. The caverns also offer above-ground activities, including rock and gem mining and a thrilling ropes course. The size of the largest room, which is bigger than a football field, is simply awe-inspiring. It’s the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs during a road trip, and an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.

If you want to learn more about Natural Bridge Caverns, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

FAQ of the Road Trip From Dallas to San Antonio

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Dallas to San Antonio drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Dallas To San Antonio?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Dallas to San Antonio road trip takes approximately 4 hours to drive. The driving distance between Dallas to San Antonio is 274 miles.
• If you want to make the Dallas to San Antonio road trip by bike, the time you spend on the road will be 1 day and 2 hours.
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Dallas-San Antonio route, then you will have to walk for 3 days and 21 hours.

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Dallas To San Antonio?

There are many beautiful pits stops along the way to San Antonio. You can visit Hillsboro, Texas; Waco, Texas; Temple, Texas; Austin, Texas; San Antonio, Texas on the road. Here we list five places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Dallas to San Antonio journey, you can check the 5 Best Places To Visit On The Dallas To San Antonio Road Trip.

1. Roadside America Museum: 61.8 miles / 58 mins to drive from Dallas | 213 miles / 3 hours and 13 mins of driving to San Antonio.
2. Dr. Pepper Museum: 94.3 miles / 1 hour and 26 mins to drive from Dallas | 180 miles / 2 hours and 45 mins of driving to San Antonio.
3. Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum: 128 miles / 1 hour and 56 mins to drive from Dallas | 147 miles / 2 hours and 20 mins of driving to San Antonio.
4. Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail: 196 miles / 2 hours and 56 mins to drive from Dallas | 79.9 miles / 1 hour and 21 mins of driving to San Antonio.
5. Natural Bridge Caverns: 261 miles / 3 hours and 56 mins to drive from Dallas | 28.5 miles / 37 mins of driving to San Antonio.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Dallas To San Antonio?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Dallas to San Antonio. We have selected five hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 5 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To San Antonio From Dallas section.

• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hillsboro: 60.3 miles / 55 mins to drive from Dallas | 214 miles / 3 hours and 14 mins of driving to San Antonio.
• Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor, an IHG Hotel: 93.8 miles / 1 hour and 24 mins to drive from Dallas | 180 miles / 2 hours and 46 mins of driving to San Antonio.
• Hampton Inn Temple: 130 miles / 1 hour and 56 mins to drive from Dallas | 144 miles / 2 hours and 14 mins of driving to San Antonio.
• Fairmont Austin: 195 miles / 2 hours and 52 mins to drive from Dallas | 79.0 miles / 1 hour and 15 mins of driving to San Antonio.
• Hotel Valencia Riverwalk: 273 miles / 4 hours to drive from Dallas | 0.3 miles / 2 mins of driving to San Antonio.

Where To Eat Between Dallas to San Antonio?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Dallas to San Antonio drive, you can consider the five restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 5 Best Restaurants On The Dallas To San Antonio Road Trip.

1. Lone Star Cafe, Hillsboro: 60.4 miles / 57 mins to drive from Dallas | 214 miles / 3 hours and 15 mins of driving to San Antonio.
2. Cafe Homestead, Waco: 90.2 miles / 1 hour and 23 mins to drive from Dallas | 190 miles / 2 hours and 57 mins of driving to San Antonio.
3. Buc-ee’s, Temple: 125 miles / 1 hour and 51 mins to drive from Dallas | 149 miles / 2 hours and 20 mins of driving to San Antonio.
4. Stella San Jac, Austin: 195 miles / 2 hours and 54 mins to drive from Dallas | 79.5 miles / 1 hour and 18 mins of driving to San Antonio.
5. Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse, San Antonio: 269 miles / 3 hours and 58 mins to drive from Dallas | 18.2 miles / 23 mins of driving to San Antonio.

Conclusion

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Dallas to San Antonio. We have listed five hotels, five restaurants, and five places to visit on the Dallas to San Antonio drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from Dallas to San Antonio as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken the Dallas to San Antonio road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want to have the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from Dallas to San Antonio and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.