Looking for an easy weekend escape from Austin that's filled with nature, great food, charming shops, and unforgettable memories? Bastrop offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm—all less than an hour from downtown Austin. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a relaxing retreat, here's how to spend an unforgettable 48 hours in Bastrop County.

Friday Evening: Arrive and Unwind

Check Into Your Home Away From Home

After leaving behind the traffic and stress of the city, settle into your vacation rental at Lost Pines Shire. Nestled among the beautiful Lost Pines forest, it's the perfect place to slow down and reconnect with nature before your weekend begins.

Take a few minutes to explore the property, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and breathe in the fresh pine-scented air.

Dinner in Historic Downtown Bastrop

Head into downtown Bastrop for your first meal of the weekend. The historic district is full of locally owned restaurants offering everything from Texas barbecue to burgers, pizza, Tex-Mex, and vegetarian-friendly options. We love Storehouse Eatery for fresh farm to table fare in a historic building.

After dinner, stroll along Main Street, browse local boutiques, and admire the beautifully restored historic buildings. Walk along the Colorado riverfront and take in the views or grab a beer and play some games at Bastrop Brewing Company.

End the Evening Under the Stars

Return to Lost Pines Shire for a quiet evening. Enjoy your private outdoor space, listen for owls and crickets, and take in one of the best night skies you'll find this close to Austin.

Saturday: Explore the Best of Bastrop

Breakfast and Coffee

Start your morning with fresh coffee from one of Bastrop's locally owned cafés before heading out for a day of adventure. We love Maxine’s for classic diner breakfast fare and pancakes as big as your head!

Morning Adventure at Bastrop State Park

No trip to Bastrop is complete without visiting Bastrop State Park.

Here you'll find:

Scenic hiking trails
Towering Lost Pines
Wildlife viewing
Historic architecture
Picnic areas

Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply want an easy nature walk, the park has trails for every skill level.

Optional Adventure: Zip Through the Pines

If your group enjoys a little excitement, consider booking a zipline adventure over the Lost Pines and Colorado River. It's one of the area's most memorable outdoor experiences.

Lunch Downtown

Recharge with lunch at one of Bastrop's many local restaurants. Try the pizza and a locally brewed beer at Neighbor’s Kitchen!

Afterward, spend some time walking around and exploring:

Locally owned shops and cafes including Good Old Habit (vintage clothing), Cedar’s Coppice (coffee, snacks, vintage and local artists), and Horseman Co. (plant shop with hand crafted air plant hangers)
Local art galleries
Bastrop 1832 Farmer’s Market (open every Saturday from 10am-2pm)
The Painted Porch Bookshop (unique bookstore owned by author Ryan Holiday complete with cats)

Historic downtown Bastrop is incredibly walkable and makes for a relaxing afternoon.

Afternoon on the Water

Depending on the season and your interests, spend the afternoon enjoying one of Bastrop's water activities:

Kayaking on the Colorado River
Paddleboarding
Canoeing
Fishing
Relaxing at Fisherman's Park
Letting the kids cool off at the splash pad (seasonal)

For families, Fisherman's Park combines a playground, river access, picnic areas, and a splash pad into one fun destination. The Colorado River also offers beginner-friendly paddling opportunities through local outfitters. Visitors can also enjoy Lake Bastrop for fishing, paddling, and lakeside recreation. Check out our article on the Best Family-Friendly Water Activities Near Bastrop for more information.

Sunset in the Lost Pines

As evening approaches, head back to Lost Pines Shire. Cook dinner together, enjoy your private outdoor space, or simply relax while the sun filters through the pine trees. The peaceful setting is one of the biggest reasons guests return again and again.

Sunday: One Last Adventure

Slow Morning

There's no rush. Sleep in a little, enjoy breakfast outside, and soak in the quiet atmosphere before checking out. Sometimes the best vacation memories come from doing absolutely nothing.

Visit Lake Bastrop

Before heading home, stop by Lake Bastrop.

Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy:

Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Fishing
Walking trails
Picnic areas
Wildlife watching

It's a beautiful place to stretch your legs before the drive home.

Why Bastrop Makes the Perfect Weekend Getaway

One of Bastrop's biggest advantages is that you don't need a long vacation to enjoy it.

Within just two days you can experience:

Beautiful hiking trails
River adventures
Family attractions
Historic downtown shopping
Excellent local restaurants
Quiet evenings under the pines

It's close enough for a spontaneous weekend but feels like you've traveled much farther from everyday life.

Stay at Lost Pines Shire

Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a peaceful retreat with friends, Lost Pines Shire offers a unique place to relax after a full day of exploring Bastrop.

Our comfortable accommodations are surrounded by the beautiful Lost Pines forest while remaining just minutes from Bastrop State Park, historic downtown, the Colorado River, Lake Bastrop, and many of the area's best attractions.

Book your stay today and discover why so many guests fall in love with Bastrop—and why they can't wait to come back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bastrop a good weekend trip from Austin?

Absolutely. Bastrop is less than an hour from Austin and offers hiking, kayaking, shopping, restaurants, and beautiful scenery, making it one of Central Texas's easiest weekend escapes.

What is there to do in Bastrop in two days?

Visitors can explore Bastrop State Park, kayak the Colorado River, shop in historic downtown, enjoy local restaurants, visit Lake Bastrop, and relax among the Lost Pines.

Is Bastrop family-friendly?

Yes. Families love the splash pad at Fisherman's Park, playgrounds, hiking trails, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal events throughout the year.

When is the best time to visit Bastrop?

Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer is ideal for river activities, kayaking, and enjoying the splash pad and local parks.

48 Hours in Bastrop, Texas: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary