Despite triple-digit temperatures and rising travel costs, the Austin metro has been named one of the best summer travel destinations in the U.S. for 2026.
The Austin-Round Rock-Georgetown metropolitan area placed No. 3 nationally in WalletHub’s annual ranking of the best summer travel destinations, and it was ranked the No. 1 destination in Texas.
The report analyzed 100 of the largest U.S. metros across 41 indicators, including travel costs, number of attractions, dining expenses and travel convenience.
“When picking a summer travel destination, it’s easy to focus just on the types of activities you want to do or certain cities you’ve always wanted to see,” said WalletHub analyst Chris Lupo. “However, choosing a destination that’s not only entertaining but also affordable is important when travel, dining and activity costs have surged so much in recent years. It can also allow you to have a longer, more relaxing trip.”
Austin earned particularly strong scores in categories related to low travel costs and local activities, with the report stating it is “exciting to explore and easy on the wallet.”
The report highlighted the availability of low-cost activities — like Zilker Park, Barton Springs Pool and the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake — that continue to draw visitors during the summer. Museums and indoor destinations like the Texas State Capitol, LBJ Presidential Library and the Bullock Texas State History Museum were also noted as popular options for those looking to escape the heat.
Austin also ranked highly for travel convenience, though the report noted travelers often pay at least $397 for direct flights into the region.
San Antonio-New Braunfels ranked No. 11 nationally, making it the second-highest Texas metro on the list. Other Texas metros included in the report were Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land at No. 20, Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington at No. 21 and El Paso at No. 33.
