Road Trip from Austin

[10scoachrick]

I know it's way too close to be called a road trip on its own; but how about a couple of days in Enchanted Rock/Fredericksburg on the way back from Big Bend(or on the way out, depending on the weather)

[atxcio]

Got to second or third the recommendation for New Mexico. Ruidoso is the closest place with truly different climate and scenery from Texas, w/mountains and cool weather. Skiing, casino, nice little city. About a 10 hour drive. Depending on the route you take, you could stop at Carlsbad Caverns or in Roswell, although the majority of the route is pretty much desolate.

Big Bend has mountains (but still like west texas scenery) and is a fun visit, probably my second choice. If you go there, stop by the Gage Hotel in Marathon, TX or possibly make a side trip to Alpine/Marfa.

New Orleans is a great suggestion if you like that sort of thing. Bigger city with lots of unique culture, great food and things to do, but it's basically a similar climate to Houston and all flat.

It's very much a personal preference thing... I like vacationing in smaller cities in the mountains or on the beach. For me, most big cities in the US are pretty boring for vacation, except NYC and Vegas (although Vegas is basically a giant resort city, at least the part that you'd visit). But YMMV.

[OpenD]

If you like art, Marfa is a must. It's about 7 hours away. The Chinati Foundation museum in Marfa is a one-of-a-kind destination for visitors from New York, where there is another Chinati Foundation museum.

Here's a fun article:
Marfa, Texas: An Unlikely Art Oasis In A Desert Town : NPR

Then see Big Bend. You haven't seen Texas until you've seen Big Bend.

[Komeht]

Big Bend is really under-appreciated and there is something about those wide open west texas skies that brings peace into your life.

This is a pretty good time of year to go to Big Bend, summer heat is over, winter chills not quite here, desert is alive, light is gorgeous.

Spend time in Terlinqua when out there. Lajitas used to be worth a trek, but it may be all resorted up now and not as much of an outpost.

When in the area, spend some time in Alpine and Marfa to be sure. Also, there are some of the prettiest drives in Texas in and out of Fort Davis. Great roads for cycling too - all the way up to the McDonald Observatory if you have the lungs.

If you head Ruidoso, consider going over the mountains to White Sands. White Sands is really remarkable and worth the side trip. Carlsbad is also spectacular.