12 Can’t-Miss Stops on the Drive from Dallas to Austin
The drive from Dallas to Austin offers more than just a journey between two major Texas cities. Along this three-hour stretch of I-35, you’ll find hidden gems that showcase the heart of Texas culture, history, and cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or nature lover, these stops will transform your road trip into an unforgettable adventure through the Lone Star State.
1. Czech Stop & Little Czech Bakery – West, TX
Hungry travelers have been pulling off I-35 at exit 353 for generations to sample authentic Czech pastries at this beloved roadside institution. The kolaches—soft, pillowy dough filled with fruits, cheese, or savory meats—are legendary among Texans.
Lines often stretch out the door, but the friendly staff keeps things moving quickly. Grab a few extras for the road; you’ll thank yourself later when hunger strikes again.
2. Waco Mammoth National Monument – Waco, TX
Step back in time 65,000 years at this remarkable paleontological site where you can view the remains of Columbian mammoths in their original discovery position. The climate-controlled dig shelter protects these ice age treasures while allowing visitors an up-close view.
Park rangers offer engaging tours explaining how an entire herd was trapped during a flash flood. The visitor center features interactive exhibits perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Allow about an hour to fully experience this natural wonder that only became a national monument in 2015.
3. Magnolia Market at the Silos – Waco, TX
The rustic-chic empire created by HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines has transformed downtown Waco into a design lover’s paradise. Two massive grain silos tower over a grassy courtyard where families play games while food trucks serve up delicious local fare.
Inside the market, you’ll find carefully curated home goods that capture the famous Magnolia farmhouse aesthetic. The on-site bakery offers Joanna’s personal recipes, with the signature “Silos Cookie” being a must-try.
Even if shopping isn’t your thing, the festive atmosphere makes this a worthwhile stop.
4. Dr Pepper Museum – Waco, TX
Housed in the 1906 bottling plant where Dr Pepper was first produced commercially, this three-story brick museum celebrates America’s oldest major soft drink. The soda’s mysterious blend of 23 flavors has been delighting taste buds since 1885.
Vintage advertisements, antique bottling equipment, and interactive exhibits tell the story of this Texas-born beverage. The highlight for many visitors is the old-fashioned soda fountain where you can enjoy a float made with pure cane sugar Dr Pepper.
Don’t miss the gift shop’s exclusive memorabilia—perfect souvenirs for soda enthusiasts!
5. Baylor University Campus – Waco, TX
Founded in 1845, Baylor’s beautiful 1,000-acre campus offers the perfect place to stretch your legs midway through your journey. Stately red-brick buildings and century-old oak trees create a picturesque setting along the Brazos River.
The Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat houses the university’s live mascots, Judge “Joy” Reynolds and Judge “Lady,” in a naturalistic environment. These American black bears delight visitors with their playful antics.
Armstrong Browning Library, with its 62 stained-glass windows, provides a peaceful retreat even for those unfamiliar with the Victorian poets it celebrates.
6. Homestead Heritage – Just north of Waco
Tucked away on 510 acres of rolling countryside sits a traditional crafts village where artisans practice timeless skills. Blacksmiths hammer red-hot iron, potters shape clay on wooden wheels, and woodworkers create furniture using centuries-old techniques.
The Homestead Café serves farm-fresh meals with ingredients grown just steps away. Their freshly-baked bread and homemade ice cream alone justify the short detour off I-35.
Children especially enjoy watching the water-powered gristmill in action and petting friendly farm animals. The peaceful setting offers a welcome contrast to highway travel.
7. Buc-ee’s – Temple, TX
More than just a gas station, this Texas institution has achieved cult status among road trippers. The beaver-mascotted travel center spans nearly 70,000 square feet—larger than many grocery stores!
Famous for spotlessly clean bathrooms (they’ve literally won awards), Buc-ee’s also offers an overwhelming array of road snacks. Their warm beaver nuggets (sweet corn puffs), homemade beef jerky, and freshly-made fudge have devoted followings.
Forgot something? Buc-ee’s probably sells it, from Texas-themed souvenirs to fishing gear. The massive selection of products makes this stop an experience unto itself.
8. Mother Neff State Park – Near Moody, TX
Texas’s first official state park offers a serene escape just a short detour from your route. Named after Mother Neff, who donated the original 6 acres in 1921, this hidden gem features diverse ecosystems from prairie to woodland.
The CCC-built stone structures add historical charm to hiking trails that wind through limestone cliffs and along the Leon River. Spring visitors are treated to spectacular wildflower displays, including the iconic bluebonnets.
Bird enthusiasts should bring binoculars—the park hosts over 160 species throughout the year. Even a quick visit provides refreshing natural beauty before returning to the highway.
9. Salado, TX
Creative spirits have been drawn to this charming village since the 1860s when it became a Chisholm Trail stop. Today, Salado’s historic Main Street houses dozens of galleries, boutiques, and studios where artists work in everything from blown glass to handcrafted jewelry.
Stagecoach Inn, recently restored to its former glory, has been serving travelers since 1861. Their famous hush puppies and strawberry kiss dessert remain unchanged from the original recipes.
Salado Creek’s clear waters flow through the town center, creating picturesque spots for photos or quiet contemplation. The town’s unhurried pace offers welcome relief from highway stress.
10. Inner Space Cavern – Georgetown, TX
Accidentally discovered in 1963 when highway workers drilled into the ceiling, this spectacular cave system had remained sealed for over 10,000 years. The constant 72-degree temperature makes it a refreshing stop year-round.
Dramatic formations with names like “Flowing Stone of Time” and “Soda Straw Balcony” showcase nature’s artistry. Fossilized remains of ice-age animals, including saber-toothed cats, have been found throughout the caverns.
Multiple tour options accommodate different interests and abilities. The Adventure Tour thrills those seeking to squeeze through tight passages, while the standard tour provides plenty of wonder without the crawling.
11. Blue Hole Park – Georgetown, TX
A local secret until recent years, this natural swimming hole on the South San Gabriel River provides an idyllic spot to cool off. Crystal-clear water flows over limestone ledges, creating small waterfalls and refreshing pools surrounded by towering cypress trees.
Rope swings hanging from tree branches invite the adventurous to make a splashing entrance. The grassy banks offer perfect picnic spots where you can relax and watch swimmers brave the chilly spring-fed waters.
During summer months, arrive early to claim your spot—this paradise gets crowded on hot days. The short walking trail from the parking area builds anticipation for the stunning blue-green waters ahead.
12. Round Rock Donuts – Round Rock, TX
The distinctive orange-yellow glow of these world-famous donuts comes from fresh eggs in the original 1926 recipe—not food coloring as many assume. The small shop produces over 500 dozen daily, yet lines still form before dawn.
Their Texas-sized donut, weighing in at two pounds, makes for great photos and bigger appetites. The regular-sized treats strike the perfect balance between crispy exterior and cloud-like interior that melts in your mouth.
Cash-only until recent years, this old-school bakery maintains its commitment to handmade quality while serving a new generation of donut enthusiasts. You’re just minutes from Austin—but this stop is absolutely worth the delay.
