The Perfect Austin to Wimberley Day Trip: A Complete Itinerary
Tired of the Austin hustle and craving a genuine Texas Hill Country escape? Look no further. A short drive south lies Wimberley, a charming town where crystal-clear rivers meander, artists thrive, and life moves at a more relaxed pace. If you’ve ever asked, “Is Wimberley, Texas worth visiting?” the answer is a resounding yes! It’s the perfect blend of breathtaking natural beauty, unique boutique shopping, and authentic small-town spirit that makes for an unforgettable day trip.
Wimberley Day Trip at a Glance
For those in the early planning stages, here’s a quick overview of what to expect on your trip from Austin to Wimberley.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Austin | 38 miles (approx. 61 km) from downtown Austin |
| Drive Time | 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending heavily on traffic (especially on I-35) |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | Spring (for wildflowers and mild weather), Fall (for cooler temps), Summer (for swimming, but expect crowds/heat) |
| Estimated Cost | $50 – $150 per person (excluding major shopping) |
| Known For | Natural swimming holes, art galleries, boutique shopping, Wimberley Market Days, Hill Country scenery |
How to Get From Austin to Wimberley
Getting to Wimberley is part of the Hill Country experience, but driving is your only practical option as there is no direct public transport from Austin. The scenic drive itself sets the stage for the day ahead.
| Transportation | Details | Pros & Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Driving (Car) | The most common and recommended method. Take I-35 S to TX-45 SW, then US-290 W to Dripping Springs, and finally RR 12 S to Wimberley. | Pros: Complete flexibility, can explore surrounding areas. Cons: Austin traffic can be heavy, plan accordingly. |
| Ride-Sharing | Uber/Lyft are available. The cost is approximately $50-$80 each way from downtown Austin. | Pros: No need to worry about parking. Cons: Very expensive, potentially long wait times for a return trip from a smaller town. |
Parking Info: Parking around Wimberley Square is free but can be very limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early to snag a good spot. Note that Wimberley Market Days has its own designated paid parking lots (around $5, cash is best). Major attractions like Blue Hole Regional Park have their own parking included with your entry fee.
Top 5 Things to Do on Your Wimberley Day Trip
Wimberley packs a punch when it comes to activities. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a shopaholic, or an art lover, you’ll find something to love. Here are the absolute must-do experiences.
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Swim in a World-Famous Swimming Hole
Wimberley is home to some of Texas’s most legendary swimming spots, fed by cool, clear spring water. CRITICAL NOTE: Reservations are required for both of these popular locations and must be made weeks or even months in advance for a summer weekend in 2025.
- Blue Hole Regional Park: This is a picture-perfect, family-friendly spot. Shaded by ancient cypress trees, the park features expansive lawns for picnicking and iconic rope swings that launch you into the crisp, blue water.
- Season: Swimming season is typically May through September. The park’s trails are open year-round for hiking.
- Reservations: Absolutely required for swimming. Book online through the official park website.
- Cost: ~$12 for adults, with discounts for youth/seniors.
- Jacob’s Well Natural Area: An ecological wonder, Jacob’s Well is the opening to the second-largest fully submerged cave in Texas. Swimming is restricted to the “well” itself, making it a truly unique and breathtaking experience.
- Season: Swimming season is typically May through September.
- Reservations: Absolutely required and sell out extremely fast. Book as soon as your date becomes available online.
- Cost: ~$9 for adults.
- Important: The area is sometimes closed to swimming due to low water flow or bacteria levels. Always check the official Hays County website before you go!
- Blue Hole Regional Park: This is a picture-perfect, family-friendly spot. Shaded by ancient cypress trees, the park features expansive lawns for picnicking and iconic rope swings that launch you into the crisp, blue water.
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Explore the Shops and Galleries at Wimberley Square
The “Square” is the charming, walkable heart of the town. Forget generic souvenir shops; here you’ll find quirky boutiques, stunning art galleries featuring local artists, antique troves, and cozy cafes. Spend an afternoon wandering through boot shops, home decor stores filled with Hill Country style, and shops showcasing local artisan crafts.
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Hunt for Treasures at Wimberley Market Days
If you can plan your day trip for the first Saturday of the month, you’re in for a treat. Wimberley Market Days is a Texas institution and a must-do experience.
- Schedule: The First Saturday of the month, from March through December 2025.
- Hours: Roughly 7 AM to 4 PM. Go early to beat the heat and the crowds.
- What it is: The oldest outdoor market in the Texas Hill Country, with nearly 500 booths. You’ll find everything from antiques, handcrafted furniture, and clothing to plants, jewelry, and delicious food.
- Cost: Entry is free, but parking costs about $5 (cash only is highly recommended).
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Hike Old Baldy for a Panoramic View
For the best view in town, head to “Prayer Mountain,” more affectionately known as Old Baldy. It’s a short but steep climb that pays off in a big way.
- The “Hike”: A challenging but rewarding climb up 218 stone steps to the summit.
- The Reward: A breathtaking 360-degree view of Wimberley and the rolling hills of the surrounding Hill Country. It’s a fantastic spot for photos.
- Cost: Free.
- Best Time: Go in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat.
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Watch Artists at Wimberley Glassworks
Escape the Texas heat and be mesmerized by the art of glassblowing. This is a unique and fascinating indoor activity perfect for any time of day.
- What to expect: Watch live glassblowing demonstrations as master artists transform molten glass into stunning art pieces right before your eyes.
- Hours: Demonstrations usually run throughout the day, but it’s always wise to check their website for the latest 2025 schedule.
- Cost: The demonstrations are free to watch. The attached gallery has beautiful pieces available for purchase if you’re looking for a special souvenir.
Sample One-Day Itinerary: The Best of Wimberley
To help you make the most of your time, here are two sample schedules—one for a typical day and one for a Market Day Saturday.
| Time | Activity (Non-Market Day) | Activity (First Saturday of the Month) |
|---|---|---|
| 8:30 AM | Leave Austin to beat the traffic. | Leave Austin early to get good parking at Market Days. |
| 9:30 AM | Arrive & hike Old Baldy for stunning morning views. | Arrive at Wimberley Market Days. Park and start exploring the hundreds of booths. |
| 11:00 AM | Head to your pre-booked swimming spot (Blue Hole/Jacob’s Well). | Spend the morning shopping and grabbing food from vendors. |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch at Wimberley Cafe or Community Pizza. | Lunch at a food stall at Market Days or head to the Square for a sit-down meal. |
| 2:30 PM | Explore the shops and art galleries in Wimberley Square. | Explore the unique shops and galleries in Wimberley Square. |
| 4:30 PM | Go to Wimberley Glassworks for a glassblowing demo. | Relax by the cool waters of Cypress Creek or grab a coffee at a local cafe. |
| 6:00 PM | Dinner with a view at The Leaning Pear or Creekhouse. | Dinner with a view at The Leaning Pear or Creekhouse. |
| 7:30 PM | Drive back to Austin. | Drive back to Austin. |
Where to Eat in Wimberley
From casual creekside cafes to upscale Hill Country cuisine, Wimberley’s food scene is as charming as the town itself.
Casual Lunch & Coffee
- Wimberley Cafe ($): A true small-town diner experience. It’s the perfect spot for a classic breakfast or a simple, hearty lunch right on the Square.
- Community Pizza & Beer Garden ($$): Enjoy delicious pizza and fresh salads in a relaxed, family-friendly outdoor setting. They have a fantastic selection of local craft beers.
Scenic Dinner
- The Leaning Pear ($$-$$$): Known for its upscale, locally-sourced menu and beautiful setting near Cypress Creek. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner.
- Creekhouse ($$): Serving up classic Texas cuisine with beautiful wooden decks overlooking Cypress Creek. It’s an ideal spot for a sunset meal.
- Chill’s On The Creek ($$): A laid-back spot located right on the creek, famous for its great burgers, cold drinks, and ultra-relaxed atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit & Insider Tips
A little planning goes a long way in making your Wimberley day trip smooth and stress-free. Here are some key tips from locals.
- BOOK EVERYTHING IN ADVANCE! This is the most important tip. For a 2025 visit, swimming holes (Blue Hole, Jacob’s Well) and popular dinner spots (like The Leaning Pear) need to be booked well ahead of time, especially for weekends.
- Check for Burn Bans & Water Levels: During hot, dry summers, Hays County may have burn bans in effect. Always check the official websites for Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole for any alerts about swimming closures due to drought.
- Cell Service Can Be Spotty: Don’t rely on your phone’s GPS entirely. Download offline maps of the area before you leave Austin, particularly if you plan on exploring scenic backroads like the Devil’s Backbone.
- Bring Cash: While most shops and restaurants accept cards, many vendors at Wimberley Market Days and some parking lots are cash-only.
- The Celebrity Connection: To answer the question, “What country singer lives in Wimberley, Texas?”, the area is famously home to country music legend George Strait, adding to its authentic Texas allure.
- The Millionaire Appeal: Wondering “Why are millionaires moving to Wimberley?” It’s the perfect mix of privacy, large tracts of beautiful land, and the coveted “Hill Country lifestyle” while still being just a short drive from the airports and amenities of Austin and San Antonio.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
Pack smart to stay comfortable all day. Here’s a simple checklist:
- Swimsuit and towel (if you have swimming reservations)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Comfortable walking shoes are a must
- Camera or smartphone for all the photo ops
- Cash for parking or small market purchases
- A change of clothes if you plan on a nice dinner
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Your day trip can be done on a budget or can be a more luxurious experience. Here’s a general idea of costs.
| Category | Low-End Estimate | High-End Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas (shared) | $10 | $15 | Based on round-trip from Austin. |
| Food & Drinks | $30 | $75 | Casual lunch vs. a nice sit-down dinner. |
| Activities | $0 | $15 | Hiking is free; swimming holes have entry fees. |
| Shopping/Souvenirs | $10 | $50+ | Varies greatly by person. |
| Total | $50 | $155+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Wimberley, Texas worth visiting?
Absolutely. Wimberley is worth visiting for anyone who loves natural beauty, unique shopping, and a relaxed, artistic atmosphere. It offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm, making it an ideal escape from the city.
What to do in Wimberley, Texas today?
On any given day in Wimberley, you can hike to the top of Old Baldy, explore the boutiques and art galleries on the Square, enjoy a meal with a view of Cypress Creek, or watch a live glassblowing demonstration. If it’s the first Saturday of the month (Mar-Dec), Wimberley Market Days is the main event.
What country singer lives in Wimberley, Texas?
Wimberley is famously associated with country music icon George Strait, who owns a ranch in the area, cementing its status as a true Texas gem.
Why are millionaires moving to Wimberley?
Millionaires are attracted to Wimberley for its combination of rustic Hill Country beauty and relative proximity to Austin. It offers privacy, the opportunity for large properties with scenic views, a strong community feel, and a slower pace of life without being completely isolated from city amenities.
TL;DR: Your Wimberley Day Trip Cheat Sheet
In a hurry? Here’s the short version for your perfect day trip from Austin.
- Go For: Swimming in natural springs, boutique shopping, and Hill Country views.
- Must-Do: Book swimming at Blue Hole or Jacob’s Well MONTHS in advance for summer 2025.
- If it’s the 1st Saturday (Mar-Dec): Go to Wimberley Market Days.
- Top Tip: Arrive early to find parking, especially on weekends.
- Don’t Forget: Cash, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
