Planning the Ideal Post-Quarantine Roadtrip

Saying that 2020 has been a difficult year is kind of like saying that summer heat in Texas is a little uncomfortable: they’re both pretty huge understatements. The world has gotten a lot scarier and a lot more complicated over the last seven months or so. 

With all this in mind, I thought it would be a good idea to bring a little levity and light-hearted energy to the Internet. Quarantine has been hard for everyone, but it has been especially tough for those of us who like to get out there and explore, take trips and live life outdoors. 

So, as I was sitting in my living room watching Once Upon a Time in Hollywood for the twelfth time this summer, I came up with an idea, and it’s pretty simple: 

What would be my ideal road trip to take through Texas once lockdown ends? 

The Lone Star State is undeniably one of the most beautiful and diverse places to live when it comes to geography and landscapes, and therefore provides many different options for exploration. 

But there are a few caveats before we get started. First of all, I have no idea where you might live in Texas, or if you’re even from Texas. I’m writing from the perspective of someone that lives in Austin during the school year and Houston during the summers. 

So, if I mention a destination that’s near your hometown or if I bring up a place that’s eight hours away, that’s neither here nor there. 

With all that being said, here are several different destinations I would highly recommend you check out once the pandemic calms down a little bit.

Best Small Town with an Outdoor Destination: Dripping Springs

This is a personal opinion, so don’t flip out and start yelling, “I can’t believe he didn’t pick (insert the name of your favorite small town).” There are lots of great small towns in this great state of ours, some of which will be featured in this article. 

I just happen to be personally fond of Dripping Springs for a very specific reason: the Hamilton Pool Reserve. Being just 23 miles outside of Austin makes it more convenient, but it is genuinely one of the most breath-takingly beautiful places to go for a peaceful swim. 

It’s tranquil, it’s close to the state capital and it’s beautiful. Do you like beautiful outdoor places? Do you like swimming? Do you like combining those things? You should absolutely check it out. 

Best Place to Feel Like You’ve Gone Back in Time: Luckenbach

It’s a bit of a strange category, but give me a chance to explain. This is a great way to communicate that irresistibly western charm. Part of the charm of Texas small towns is their ability to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the days of cattle rustling and open-air saloons. If this is the type of atmosphere you crave, look no further than this little gem of a town. 

Some of the original architecture and buildings from back in the mid 1800s can still be seen up and down the main road. Luckenbach has also been a country music staple, from being the subject of a Waylon Jennings song to hosting high profile artists for years. 

Luckenbach is a quaint, quiet town full of western charm, and if this is your cup of tea, you can’t find a better place to go. 

Best Place to Climb and Watch a Sunset: Enchanted Rock

It’s famous, it’s known state-wide and it’s part of the first line of the Josh Abbott song, “My Texas”. Hands down, Enchanted Rock is easily one of the most beautiful places in our great state. If you don’t think so, you’ve never seen it. 

Go ahead, google it. I’ll wait. Trust me, you’ll be back. 

See? I told you. Obviously, it’s a little bit of a hike to get to the top and actually watch the sunset, but I promise you it is well worth the physical exertion. You’ll swear you’re looking at a painting as you’re gazing out at the endless horizon and watching the bright sun disappear beneath the horizon. 

Best Destination Spot for Hiking: Big Bend National Park

I mean, it’s a national park. Do I really need to go into a super long explanation here? If you love nature, and if you’re reading this you probably do, national parks are some of your favorite things behind Chacos and being referred to as a “granola boy/girl.” 

We live in one of the lucky twenty-nine states that are home to national parks, and once it is safe to go back we should absolutely be doing so. 

Sightseeing, canoeing, camping and of course hiking trails,lots and lots of hiking trails. If you’re looking for a place in-state to rough it and truly experience the outdoors, look no further than Big Bend. 

Best Place to Catch a Trout: Rockport 

I have such fond childhood memories of fishing with my dad, and I can distinctly remember the feeling of absolute euphoria as I was reeling in my first speckled trout. This is one of those places that, to a stranger, would have very little significance. 

For me, Rockport will always have a special place in my heart because it is my first memory of visiting a small, off the beaten path place in Texas. It’s not a very large town, and you can probably see the whole city on less than half a tank of gas. 

But if you love fishing, my goodness, is this the place to go. If you need yet another reason to go, when Hurricane Harvey made landfall this quiet little town was absolutely devastated, so  they definitely need the financial support that comes with tourism. 

If you’re looking for a peaceful place to go catch some fish, consider yourself let in on one of our state’s best kept secrets.  

Best Overall City: Austin

This isn’t up for debate. It just isn’t. I’m sorry citizens of Dallas, San Antonio, and especially to my own hometown of Houston. They all have their own wonderful parts and charming districts, but in general, the live music capital of the world is the way to go. If you’re looking for a city to spend a few days in and have completely different experiences each day, go to Austin. 

Do you want to go hiking and then cool off in a pool surrounded by trees that is filled with water from natural springs and is constantly freezing? Visit Austin. 

Do you want to start the day rock climbing and then end the day with some mini golf under a giant dinosaur statue? Visit Austin. 

Do you want to paddle board and canoe across a beautiful lake then relax by doing some tubing? Visit Austin. Just go ahead and visit Austin. I’ve never heard anyone who visited say anything other than, “This was amazing, when can I come back?” 

Coronavirus has taken a toll on every part of our lives. Personally, I haven’t left the house for much more than groceries, occasionally picking up food, or going for a walk or a run. 

I for one cannot wait for the day when we can once again safely travel our great state and see some of these and the other beautiful places in our state. But until then, stay inside, wear a mask if and when you do have to go outside, and just be kind to people. 

Times are tough: be nice y’all.

Art by Carissa Georgelos