Round Rock in a Rush: Quick Day Trip Facts
Short on time? Here’s everything you need to know at a glance before you head north from Austin for the day.
| Quick Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Austin | ~20 miles north of Downtown |
| Driving Time | 25-45 minutes (without traffic) |
| Average Uber Cost | $30 – $50 (one way, pre-surge) |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | Spring (March-May) & Fall (September-November) |
| Vibe | Family-Friendly, Historic, Sports-Focused |
How to Get to Round Rock from Austin
Getting to Round Rock is a straight shot up I-35, but as any Austinite knows, timing is everything. Traffic on this corridor can be a major factor in your travel time, so planning ahead is key. Here’s a breakdown of your best options.
Transportation Options from Austin
| Mode | Travel Time | Estimated Cost (One-Way) | Best For… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | 25 – 45+ minutes | ~$5-10 in gas | Flexibility & families |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 25 – 45+ minutes | $30 – $50+ | Convenience & no parking stress |
| Public Transit (CapMetro) | ~60+ minutes | ~$3.50 | Budget travelers |
- Driving: The easiest way to have full control over your schedule. A word of caution: avoid I-35 during peak rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM) if at all possible. The good news? Once you arrive, parking in Round Rock is generally free and abundant, with the exception of paid event parking at Dell Diamond (~$15).
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): For a hassle-free trip, a rideshare is a great choice. A one-way trip typically runs $30-$50, but be aware that this can surge to $70 or more during peak times or major events.
- Public Transit (CapMetro): Yes, you can take the bus! CapMetro’s MetroExpress route 980 connects Downtown Austin to the Round Rock Transit Center. However, this service is primarily geared towards weekday commuters, so weekend and evening service is limited. Always check the CapMetro app for the most current schedule before you go.
Top 5 Unforgettable Things to Do in Round Rock
From legendary pastries to historic landmarks, Round Rock packs a surprising amount of fun into a day trip. Here are the top five things you can’t miss.
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Explore Historic Downtown & Find the Real “Round Rock”
Step back in time as you wander down Main Street. The charming, walkable downtown is filled with unique boutiques, antique shops, and inviting local restaurants. This area is steeped in history; it’s where the infamous outlaw Sam Bass had his final shootout in 1878. After exploring the storefronts, take a short walk to Brushy Creek to see the city’s namesake: the large, anvil-shaped round rock that served as a low-water crossing marker on the historic Chisholm Trail. This is a top-tier free activity!
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Eat a World-Famous Round Rock Donut
You haven’t truly been to Round Rock until you’ve tried a donut from the legendary Round Rock Donuts. Famous for their unique, slightly yellow-orange hue (thanks to fresh eggs!), these pastries are light, airy, and melt in your mouth. Whether you use the convenient drive-thru or pop inside, be prepared for a treat. For a real challenge, dare to order the 2-pound “Texas-sized” donut!
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Relax and Play at Old Settlers Park
Known as the “Sports Capital of Texas,” Round Rock takes its parks seriously. Old Settlers Park is the crown jewel, spanning a massive 640 acres. It offers everything from sports fields and fishing piers to miles of walking trails. The absolute must-see here is the Play for All Abilities Park, a nationally recognized, incredibly designed playground where children of all abilities can play together. This is another fantastic free activity for the whole family.
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Catch a Round Rock Express Baseball Game
From April through September, Dell Diamond is the place to be. Home to the Round Rock Express, the Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, the ballpark offers an incredible, family-friendly atmosphere. Grab a hot dog, find a spot on the grassy berm for cheap lawn seats (starting around $15), and enjoy an all-American afternoon of baseball. It’s the perfect way to experience the city’s community spirit.
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Make a Splash at Kalahari Resorts (or Just Visit!)
Looking for a big-ticket attraction or a rainy-day escape? Kalahari Resorts is home to America’s largest indoor waterpark. While day passes can be pricey (often $50-$100+ per person), it’s an unforgettable experience. On a budget? You can still visit without a pass! The resort’s massive lobby, public restaurants, and huge arcade are open to non-guests, offering a fun dose of spectacle and entertainment on its own.
A Perfect One-Day Round Rock Itinerary
Want a foolproof plan for your day? Follow this simple schedule to hit all the highlights without feeling rushed.
Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Donuts & Park Play
Start your day the sweet way by heading directly to Round Rock Donuts to beat the longest lines. Once you’re fueled up, drive over to Old Settlers Park. Walk off the sugar on the trails or let the kids have the time of their lives at the incredible Play for All Abilities Park.
Lunch (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM): Downtown Dining
Head to historic downtown for a bite to eat. Grab a casual and delicious Cajun meal at Louisiana Longhorn Cafe or a fresh, modern bite at Urban Eat.Drink. There are plenty of options to choose from!
Afternoon (1:30 PM – 5:00 PM): History & Shopping OR Baseball
Option A (Relaxed): Spend the afternoon strolling down Main Street, popping into the shops. Take the short walk to see the actual “round rock” in Brushy Creek and snap some photos of the historic buildings and murals.
Option B (Sports Fan): Check the schedule! If the Round Rock Express has an afternoon game, make your way to Dell Diamond for some sun and baseball.
Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Dinner & Drive Home
Wrap up your day with a memorable dinner. Enjoy classic Texas barbecue at Salt Lick BBQ or try the unique Irish-Texan fusion at Cork & Barrel Craft Kitchen. By the time you’re done, the evening rush hour on I-35 should have subsided, making for a smooth drive back to Austin.
Where to Eat in Round Rock: From BBQ to Brews
Round Rock’s food scene has something for every palate and budget. Here are a few can’t-miss spots.
- Iconic Treat ($): Round Rock Donuts – A non-negotiable stop for their famous, fresh-egg donuts.
- Classic Texas BBQ ($$): Salt Lick BBQ – A legendary name in Texas barbecue, serving up delicious brisket and ribs.
- Casual Downtown Lunch ($$): Louisiana Longhorn Cafe or Urban Eat.Drink – Perfect spots on Main Street for Cajun classics or modern American fare.
- A Nice Sit-Down Dinner ($$$): Jack Allen’s Kitchen or Cork & Barrel Craft Kitchen & Microbrewery – Great options for a more upscale meal featuring farm-to-table Southern comfort or an innovative brewpub menu.
Insider Tips for Your Trip
- Beat I-35 Traffic: This is the golden rule. Plan your travel to avoid driving north between 7-9 AM and south between 4-7 PM on weekdays. Your trip will be much more pleasant.
- Check the Schedule: Many of Round Rock’s best events are seasonal. Always check the Round Rock Express game schedule or the city’s event calendar for things like “Music on Main” before you visit.
- Combine Your Trip: Round Rock is just a stone’s throw from Georgetown. If you have time, consider visiting Georgetown’s “Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas” or exploring Inner Space Cavern to maximize your day trip.
- Parking is Plentiful: Don’t stress about finding a spot. Outside of paid event parking at Dell Diamond, most parking in the downtown area and at city parks is free and easy to find.
What to Pack for Round Rock
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring downtown and the parks.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—the Texas sun is no joke!
- A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Your smartphone or camera for photos of the historic sites and murals.
- A light jacket for cooler evenings, especially in the spring and fall.
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Your day in Round Rock can be as affordable or as extravagant as you like. Here’s a sample breakdown for one person.
| Expense | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | ~$10 (Gas) | ~$70 (Round-trip Uber) |
| Food & Drinks | $25 | $60 |
| Activities | $0 (Free parks & downtown) | $25 (Baseball game ticket) |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~$35 | ~$155 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much is an Uber from Austin to Round Rock?
An Uber or Lyft from downtown Austin to Round Rock typically costs between $30 and $50 one-way. Be aware that prices can be significantly higher during peak traffic hours, special events, or due to surge pricing.
What to do in Round Rock for free?
Round Rock is fantastic for budget-friendly fun! You can explore the historic downtown, see the famous “round rock” in Brushy Creek, walk the trails at the massive Old Settlers Park, and enjoy the incredible, nationally-acclaimed Play for All Abilities Park—all without spending a dime on admission.
Is Round Rock better than Austin?
They offer different experiences! Austin is a bustling urban center famous for its live music, nightlife, and eclectic vibe. Round Rock provides a more relaxed, suburban, and family-friendly atmosphere with a strong focus on community, sports, and safety. For a day trip, it’s a perfect, easy-to-navigate escape from the city.
Does Cap Metro go to Round Rock?
Yes, CapMetro’s MetroExpress commuter bus service (specifically Route 980) connects Austin to the Round Rock Transit Center. However, its schedule is primarily designed for weekday commuters, meaning service is limited on weekends and in the evenings. It’s a great budget option if the schedule aligns with your plans.
Your Round Rock Day Trip Cheat Sheet (TLDR)
In a hurry? Here’s the absolute must-know info:
- The Drive: It’s an easy 30-minute drive up I-35, but only if you avoid rush hour (7-9 AM & 4-7 PM).
- Must-Do: Get an iconic yellow donut from Round Rock Donuts. No exceptions.
- Best Free Activity: Explore the Play for All Abilities Park inside Old Settlers Park. It’s truly special.
- The Vibe: Think “Sports Capital of Texas.” It’s clean, safe, and incredibly family-friendly.
- The Landmark: Yes, there is a real “round rock.” Go find it in Brushy Creek near Chisholm Trail Road.
