Dallas to San Antonio covers nearly the length of the I-35 corridor through Central Texas — about 275 miles through Waco and Austin to the Alamo City. It's a busy, well-trodden Texas route.
The drive passes through Waco (the halfway point) and then continues through Austin before the final run down to San Antonio. Many travelers break the trip with a night in Austin.
Stops Along the Way
The classic halfway stop on I-35 — Magnolia Market, the Waco Mammoth National Monument, and Dr Pepper.
Many stop here for an evening on 6th Street or a morning at Franklin Barbecue, making it a natural overnight between Dallas and San Antonio.
Tips for This Trip
Make Austin a stopover
Breaking the drive in Austin turns a long one-day trip into an enjoyable two-city journey — 3 hours to Austin, 1.5 hours Austin to San Antonio.
The San Antonio approaches are straightforward
Unlike Austin or Dallas, I-35 into San Antonio is relatively free-flowing except near loop roads at rush hour.
Time for the River Walk at golden hour
San Antonio's famous River Walk is stunning in the late afternoon light — time your arrival to enjoy it before dinner.
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Frequently Asked Questions
San Antonio is about 240 miles (386 km) from Dallas in a straight line, and approximately 275 miles (443 km) by road via I-35 through Waco and Austin.