Road Trip in Hill Country

Beat the Texas heat with a dip in Hamilton Pool, a collapsed grotto that makes a magical swimming hole.

Try the rope swing at Krause Springs, which has 32 natural springs feeding into a large pool-- it's surrounded by secluded forests, which add to the fairy tale effect.

Also make sure to take a hike through Enchanted Rock State Park; the name really does describe the colorful granite formations perfectly.

Add some true Texas flavor to your trip by stopping at an authentic honky tonk, like Arkey Blue's Silver Dollar Saloon (where you can still see the bullet holes of bar brawls past).

Try a dance hall, like Gruene Hall (don't forget your best boots)!

Check out the Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum to appreciate some record-breaking taxidermy.

If that's a little too weird, then pose for a photo with the World's Largest Pair of Cowboy Boots.

Bandera is home to the Frontier Times Museum-- it's like stepping back in time to the Old West!

Since you're in Texas, there's one thing you're gonna be eating: barbecue. For breakfast, lunch, and dinner (I'm only half kidding). In Austin, chow down on Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew.

Or hit up an old school joint like Laird's or Cooper's furthur down the road.

If you aren't serious about BBQ for breakfast, then try the chicken & waffles at Austin's finer diner, 24 Diner.

Or, you can just walk up and down San Antonio's unique Riverwalk and find whatever strikes your fancy!

Enjoy some Southern hospitality during your trip by staying at a quaint little bed & breakfast like Meyer B&B (it's located in Comfort, so rest assured that you'll be able to rest assured).

If you're really looking for some authentic Austin quirkiness, then bask in the funky neon glow of the Hotel St. Cecilia.

Or, if you're looking for something really unusual, why not stay in a treehouse? (Yes, for real!) The Tree Haus Resort, with its attached water park, makes an unforgettable last stop along the route before heading back to Austin.