Taking a drive from Dallas to Austin tommorrow and would like a good route (other than Interstate) for the drive down. Can anyone suggest a good one? I am leaving from downtown and ending up at "The Backyard" for a show. Thanks in advance.

 

If you find one out, let me know! I freaking hate I-35...

 

Take 281 the whole way.

It starts a little west of fortworth, so depending on where you are leaving in Dallas depends on where you should get on 281. It is perfect because if you are going to the backyard, you can take 183 from 281 to 620 and head south to 71. Or just take 281 all the way to 71 you will end up in Marblefalls, and then take 71 east to the backyard.

 

Hey, thats great. Thanks alot!

 

Once you get on 281, you may not want to get off 'til you get to San Antonio. Beautiful drive.
Another route will put you into north Austin. 281 south to Lampassas (sp?), east on 190 for a short distance (I think less than one mile), then south on 183.

 

If you haven't driven much in Austin, take 281 to Marble Falls as John said.

Then, take 1431 from Marble Falls toward Cedar Park.

Right before you get to Cedar Park, turn left on Lime Creek road. Lime creek is a really twisty road that is fun to drive (but be careful there are cyclers/runners and some gravel). Take Lime creek road to Volente, then turn right to take Volente road. Volente has a short but beautiful/peaceful canopied section.

Go straight and that should dump you onto 620. Take 620 south for a few miles and then left on Bullock Hollow (2222). Go down the big hill, under Loop 360, and through the twisty two-lane section. Turn left on 2222, and you will end up on Loop 1 (Mopac Expwy).

Go south on Mopac, exit 5th street and that will take you straight to downtown.

Have fun!

 

All, it was a great drive. Thanks much for the tips!