5 Weekend Getaways from Houston (and the Right Rental for Each)

Houston's location is a road-trip gift. Within four hours you can hit beaches, wineries, antique towns, and historic ports. Here are five favorites and what to rent for each.\n\n## 1. Galveston — 1 hour south\nBeach day or pleasure pier weekend. A compact sedan is plenty unless you're bringing surf gear or coolers, in which case grab a small SUV.\n\n## 2. Fredericksburg & Hill Country — 4 hours west\nWine trails and Sunday brunches. A comfortable mid-size sedan or SUV is the move — you'll log 250+ miles round trip and want the road comfort.\n\n## 3. Austin — 2.5 hours northwest via 290\nIf you're starting from Brookhollow, you're already on the right highway. Any reliable sedan works; pick something with good MPG.\n\n## 4. Round Top antiques — 90 minutes west\nTwice a year, Round Top doubles in size for antique week. An SUV or small truck gives you room to haul finds back.\n\n## 5. New Orleans — 5.5 hours east\nBig weekend, long drive. Splurge on a comfortable SUV or a premium sedan — your back will thank you on the way home.