When was the last time you left the Dallas skyline behind for a weekend of relaxation or outdoor adventure in a less-populated town or designated park area nearby?
If you’re itching to make an escape, reconnect with nature or step back in time with one of these great weekend getaways.
Lake Tawakoni State Park
If you’re the type who likes your weekend trips to be marked by little time on the road and as much time as possible at your destination, Lake Tawakoni State Park should be on your radar. Just over an hour’s drive from AMLI Uptown, you can be at the lake by sundown on Friday and stay until late afternoon on Sunday.
The park offers 376 acres of natural beauty and no shortage of fun. Swimming, boating, fishing, geocaching, hiking, and mountain biking are some of the most popular outdoor activities. Camp at one of the park’s various campgrounds or hole up in nearby Wills Point if you’d rather sleep in a hotel room.
Marble Falls
With its rolling hills, scenic falls, and abundance of natural pools, Marble Falls is tremendously easy on the eyes. Spend a weekend in the small city’s peaceful surroundings, and you’ll feel your blood pressure drop. At just over three hours from AMLI at Escena, Marble Falls is farther from Dallas than any of the other getaway destinations on this list. Make the longer journey, however and you’re unlikely to regret it. Friendly residents, outdoor activities, dining, and shopping add to the appeal. If you like breakfast or pies, don’t let a weekend pass without a visit to the iconic Bluebonnet Cafe.
Mineral Wells
An hour and 35 minutes west of AMLI Campoin Trail in Irving, Mineral Wells is a place of contradictions. One of its two claims to fame is deeply relaxing and therapeutic. The other, if you’re inclined to believe the tales, is unsettling and shock-inducing.
The city’s namesake is the healing springs in the area, which drew large crowds of sick and wounded people around the turn of the 20th century. While the claim that water in Mineral Wells’ therapeutic pools has healing powers is tenuous, it certainly is mineral-rich. Today, this water is bottled by Famous Mineral Water Co. and can be purchased as Crazy™ Water.
Mineral Wells’ other claim to fame is the long-defunct Baker Hotel. The hotel was frequented by the rich and famous during the early 20th century, but has long been abandoned and is said to be haunted by former guests. If you’re too scared to stay the night in this “haunted” city, it’s close enough to your Dallas apartment to be a manageable day trip.
Possum Kingdom Lake
Possum Kingdom (P.K.) Lake and State Park, 140 miles west of Dallas, is a mix of man-made and natural treasures that has something to offer everyone. Camping is one option, but the lake’s massive 300-mile-long shoreline is dotted with inexpensive cabins offering stunning views. Hike, swim, practice yoga, scuba dive, or lounge around. At Possum Kingdom Lake, there’s space for everything and everyone.
Tyler
Known for its rose gardens and production, Tyler is a peaceful mid-sized city with enough shopping and dining options to keep you engaged while offering a respite from big city life. An hour and a half is all you’ll need to get from your Dallas apartment to this quaint east Texas gem. The 82nd Annual Texas Rose Festival, in case you’re interested, will be held from October 15 to 18, 2015.
Washington-on-the-Brazos
Flush with natural beauty and historical significance, Washington-on-the-Brazos is an idyllic place to spend a hustle-and-bustle free weekend. A brief getaway here might consist of pampering, fine dining, a visit to the spot where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed in 1836, a stroll along the Brazos River, and plenty of relaxation. Luxurious resorts and rental homes offer comfortable places to stay with prime views. Washington is a three-hour drive from downtown Dallas.
The Dallas – Fort Worth metroplex is conveniently situated near several spectacular weekend getaway destinations. Pick a weekend to escape and allow yourself to unplug, relax, and recharge with a getaway you’ll cherish for months to come.
When you leave your Dallas apartment behind for a weekend getaway, where do you like to go?
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View All Posts by Jason Ernst