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Distance from Austin to Fredericksburg | Party Bus Austin Texas
- Austin Nites Party Bus
- Aug 9
- 5 min read
How Far Is It from Austin to Fredericksburg, TX? (2025 Complete Travel Guide)
Looking to explore Texas Wine Country or take a scenic drive into the Hill Country? One of the most frequently asked travel questions is:
Whether you're planning a day trip, a romantic getaway, or a wine tasting weekend, understanding how far it is from Austin to Fredericksburg — and how to make the most of the drive — is key. This guide breaks down the exact distance, best routes, travel tips, and local stops, helping you turn a simple drive into a memorable experience.
Quick Facts: Austin to Fredericksburg
Travel Method | Distance | Average Time |
Driving via US-290 | 78–80 miles | 1 hour 25 mins |
Scenic Route via TX-71 | ~90 miles | 1 hour 40 mins |
Straight-line (Air) | ~68 miles | N/A |
Table of Contents
How Far Is It from Austin to Fredericksburg?
Best Time to Drive from Austin to Fredericksburg
FAQs: Austin–Fredericksburg Travel
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of the Journey
How Far Is It from Austin to Fredericksburg?
If you're wondering how far Fredericksburg is from Austin, the answer is: about 78 to 80 miles by car, depending on where you start in Austin and the route you choose.
Direct Drive Time: ~1 hour 25 minutes
Highway Route: US-290 West
Scenic Route: TX-71 West to US-281 North
The distance from Austin to Fredericksburg TX is ideal for a spontaneous road trip, a full-day itinerary, or a relaxing weekend getaway in the heart of Texas Hill Country.
Driving Distance from Austin to Fredericksburg TX
The most common and efficient way to get from Austin to Fredericksburg is by driving.
Start: Downtown Austin or Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
End: Fredericksburg, TX (Main Street or Wine Road 290)
Route: US-290 W through Dripping Springs and Johnson City
Total Distance: ~80 milesEstimated Time: 1 hour 20–30 minutes
Pro Tip: Add buffer time for Hill Country traffic on weekends, especially during spring wildflower season or wine festivals.
Best Routes to Fredericksburg from Austin
Here are the top three routes to get from Austin to Fredericksburg, depending on your travel goals:
1. US-290 W (Direct & Popular Route)
Fastest route
Best for first-time visitors
Speed traps near Johnson City
Dozens of wineries and breweries
2. TX-71 W to US-281 N (Scenic Alternate)
Great for avoiding US-290 weekend traffic
Lake views and less congestion
Passes through Marble Falls and scenic overlooks
3. FM Roads / Hill Country Byways (Backroads Adventure)
Most scenic, least traffic
Access to small towns and hidden gems
Slower due to winding roads
Austin to Fredericksburg Road Trip Highlights
Make your trip memorable with these iconic stops between Austin and Fredericksburg:
Dripping Springs
Gateway to Hill Country
Breweries, BBQ, natural swimming holes
Johnson City
Home of LBJ's boyhood home and visitor center
Pedernales River access
Texas Wine Trail (US-290)
Over 50+ wineries and vineyards between Austin and Fredericksburg
Popular names: Becker Vineyards, Grape Creek, William Chris
Wildseed Farms
The largest working wildflower farm in the U.S.
Free to visit, just outside Fredericksburg
Return Trip: Fredericksburg to Austin
After a day (or weekend) of wine, hiking, and Hill Country charm, heading from Fredericksburg to Austin is as easy as the way there.
Tips for the Return:
Time Your Departure: Avoid Sunday evening traffic
Stop for Dinner: Eat in Johnson City or Driftwood
Catch Sunset: Aim to leave Golden Hour at Wildseed Farms or Enchanted Rock
Best Time to Drive from Austin to Fredericksburg
Best Days to Travel:
Tuesday through Thursday (least traffic)
Saturday morning for weekenders
Times to Avoid:
Sunday evenings (return traffic)
Friday 4–6 PM (Austin congestion)
Best Season to Go:
Spring: Bluebonnets, wildflowers, wine festivals
Fall: Harvest season, Oktoberfest events
Winter: Fewer crowds, Christmas markets
Frequently Asked Questions: Distance from Austin to Fredericksburg, TX
How far is Fredericksburg from Austin by car?
Fredericksburg is approximately 78 to 80 miles west of Austin, Texas by car. The drive typically takes 1 hour and 25 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and your starting point in Austin.
What is the best route to drive from Austin to Fredericksburg?
The most popular and direct route is via US-290 West, which passes through Dripping Springs and Johnson City before reaching Fredericksburg. This route is also known as the Texas Wine Trail, with plenty of scenic stops and vineyards along the way.
Alternate scenic routes include:
TX-71 W to US-281 N, great for less traffic
FM 1323 or Ranch Roads, ideal for a more rural experience
How far is Fredericksburg from Austin airport (AUS)?
From Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) to Fredericksburg, the distance is around 85 miles, and the drive takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Can I make a day trip from Austin to Fredericksburg?
Yes! Fredericksburg is one of the most popular day trips from Austin due to its close distance, scenic drive, and wide range of activities including wine tasting, boutique shopping, hiking at Enchanted Rock, and dining at German restaurants.
Is the drive from Austin to Fredericksburg scenic?
Absolutely. The route along US-290 W offers stunning Texas Hill Country views, with vineyards, wildflowers (especially in spring), small historic towns, and rolling countryside. It’s a favorite among road trippers and photographers.
How long does it take to drive from Austin to Fredericksburg without stops?
If you drive non-stop, the travel time is typically 1 hour and 25 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. However, many travelers choose to stop at wineries, breweries, or scenic viewpoints along the way, which can add 30–60 minutes to the trip.
Is there public transportation from Austin to Fredericksburg, TX?
There is no direct public transportation between Austin and Fredericksburg. However, you can:
Book a private shuttle or wine tour
Rent a car
Use a rideshare service (though return trips may not be guaranteed)
When is the best time to drive from Austin to Fredericksburg?
The best time to travel is:
Mid-morning (8:30–10:00 AM) on weekdays or Saturdays
Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) offer the most pleasant weather and beautiful landscapes
Avoid:
Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons, which can have heavy traffic due to weekenders.
What are some good places to stop between Austin and Fredericksburg?
Top stops include:
Dripping Springs – great food and craft breweries
Johnson City – historic LBJ sites and charming cafes
Wildseed Farms – largest wildflower farm in the U.S.
Pedernales Falls State Park – for hiking and nature photography
Multiple Wineries – along the 290 Wine Trail
How far is it from Fredericksburg back to Austin?
The return trip from Fredericksburg to Austin is about 78 to 80 miles, the same as the outbound trip. Depending on traffic and route, it will take between 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes.
Bonus: Quick Distance Snapshot
From → To | Distance | Drive Time |
Austin (Downtown) → Fredericksburg | ~78 mi | ~1 hr 25 mins |
Austin Airport (AUS) → Fredericksburg | ~85 mi | ~1 hr 40 mins |
Fredericksburg → Austin (Return) | ~78 mi | ~1 hr 25 mins |
Final Thoughts: Make the Most of the Journey
The drive from Austin to Fredericksburg is more than just a route — it’s a journey through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Texas. With its perfect balance of accessibility, charm, and adventure, Fredericksburg to Austin (and vice versa) offers one of the best short trips in the state.
Whether you're in it for the wine, the food, or the history, the Austin to Fredericksburg distance is close enough for convenience, yet far enough to feel like a real escape.
Need Local Recommendations?
Looking for the best wineries, restaurants, or places to stay in Fredericksburg? Check out our full Fredericksburg Travel Guide for 2025 — coming soon!
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