Day tripping!

A national magazine, World Atlas, has listed Palmetto State Park, just north of Gonzales, among the best day trips from Austin to take for the summer.

Listed in this trip are also the Hamilton Pool Preserve, which is about 30 miles or 45 minutes by car west of Austin. Named as Texas’ most beautiful watering hole, Hamilton Pool captivates visitors from all over the state of Texas, with a jade colored lake and glistening waterfall along a limestone canyon. The San Marcos River, which flows to a convergence with the Guadalupe River in Gonzales, is mentioned for the kayaking, and the crystal-clear springs and river which originate in San Marcos is a haven for all wildlife lovers. The area around the springs is known as one of the oldest continually inhabited areas in North America.

In Gonzales, the Palmetto State Park is highlighted for the activities and beauty offered by the area, as well as the charming town, itself, the one we are all lucky enough to call home.

Also listed is San Antonio, and of course the River Walk and Alamo, among other things. Inner Space Caverns is next to be mentioned, with the highlight on caverns and limestone caves. Jacob’s Well in Wimberley follows on this list, labeled as a cool haven from Texas heat, with the promise of hikes and nature. Lake Travis rounds out the list, with boating, fishing and water sports emphasized. Waterfront restaurants are mentioned among the many offerings of the area.

With a day trip being, literally, a small vacation, bringing with it the many chances to explore, relax and refill on physical, mental and emotional energies, all of these places would fit the bill, though we are partial to believing Gonzales to be the best out of the bunch of wonderful choices.