Get the full Texas experience by taking a road trip from Houston to Dallas. The quickest route north takes just over 3.5 hours on Interstate 45, although there are other options that are partially on highways. We’ve mapped a route that takes you off the interstate if you have extra time to stop at some landmarks and enjoy nature. You’ll be driving mostly through small towns with fun names like Angus and Groesbeck, with plenty of chances to stop and explore or get something to eat.
Tips for a One-way Road Trip from Houston to Dallas
Getting from Houston to Dallas takes part of a day, and has interesting stops to offer in between. It is a good idea to leave early in the morning to beat the traffic and enjoy your ride, especially if you plan to stop for some hiking or at one of our other suggestions. If this is your first time driving this route, it is a good idea to have GPS to avoid taking wrong turns, especially if you leave the interstate.
Driving Directions from Houston to Dallas
If you are flying into Houston, pick up your car rental at Houston Airport, follow the signs to Interstate 45 and continue driving until you reach New Waverly. Here, you can get off on the highway and explore Sam Houston National Forest just to the east if you like. After this detour, you can get back on I-45 N until you reach the town of Buffalo and Highway 164 W. After a short time you’ll reach the town of Groesbeck and an interesting historic site. From here you can head north on Highway 14 and you’ll meet back up with I-45, which you can follow all the way north to Dallas.
5 Stops to Make Along the Way
Old Town Spring, Spring, TX
The Old Town Spring historic settlement in the charming town of Spring is home to cute boutiques, antique shops, and several great restaurants. The art galleries are also worth a visit.
Sam Houston National Forest
Take a nature break on your drive to Houston and stretch your legs in the Sam Houston National Forest. Named for the first president of the Republic of Texas and U.S. Senator, this forest offers hiking and camping, as well as swimming in one of the nearby bodies of water like Lake Livingston.
Old Fort Parker, Groesbeck, TX
See what frontier life was like in the early 1800s by visiting the Old Fort Parker Historic Site just outside the small town of Groesbeck. See where the Parker family lived and learn about the raid on the fort that took place in 1836.
Pearce Museum, Corsicana, TX
The Pearce Museum located in Corsicana is an interesting place to see a celebration of artwork and artifacts from the American West and learn about the Civil War.
Bluebonnet Park, Ennis, TX
Enjoy the colorful wildflower trails in this park in Ennis that bloom in the spring. A huge bluebonnet festival is held every year when the flowers bloom, but you can enjoy the park and adjacent Bardwell Lake any time of the year.
SIXT car rental in Houston
If you need to get from Houston to Dallas by car, you can do it in style and comfort with a SIXT rental. You can pick up your vehicle at our George Bush Airport location and have easy access to I-45 N, which will take you to Dallas. Whether you need an economical sedan, a roomy SUV or a rugged pickup, our fleet can meet your needs and get you on the road quickly.
