Find cheap weekend trips from Dallas — flight times, typical fares, and smart booking tips for DFW and Love Field to nearby, desert, and beach destinations.
Looking for a quick and affordable escape from Dallas? With two major airports - DFW and Love Field - offering numerous flight options, weekend getaways are easy to plan. From nearby cities like Austin and Houston to farther destinations like Cancun and Las Vegas, there’s something for every traveler. Flights are often budget-friendly, with deals as low as $29 one-way on carriers like Frontier, Spirit, and Southwest. Timing is key: booking 1–3 months in advance, flying midweek, and traveling during off-peak months can save you up to 67%.
Dallas travelers have endless options for short, affordable trips - whether it’s vibrant city life, outdoor adventures, or beach relaxation. Start planning your next weekend escape today!
10 Weekend Getaways from Dallas: Flight Times, Prices & Distance Comparison
Being flexible with your travel dates can help you save big - think 20% to 40% off your weekend airfare. For instance, shifting your trip within a one- to two-week window can unlock these savings compared to sticking with fixed dates. Typically, flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays offers the best deals, while Fridays and Sundays tend to be pricier. And here’s a pro tip: booking your flight at least 15 days in advance could save you up to $200. These simple strategies can make your Dallas weekend getaways much more affordable.
When deciding between Dallas airports, consider the perks of each. DFW Airport boasts a wide range of routes, making it ideal for flexibility, while Love Field often shines with domestic deals. If you’re eyeing last-minute escapes, keep an eye on Southwest Airlines’ flash sales, which typically drop on Tuesdays around 3:00 PM - just make sure to book by Thursday.
For budget travelers, ultra-low-cost carriers like Frontier and Spirit are worth a look. These airlines frequently slash fares for flights out of DFW. For example, you might snag a ticket to Orlando for as low as $47 or find deals to Las Vegas around $54. To keep costs down, skip the checked luggage and stick to a personal item to avoid those pesky baggage fees.
Timing your trip during the shoulder season can also stretch your dollar further. January and February are typically the cheapest months to fly from Dallas, and traveling in spring or fall lets you dodge summer crowds and inflated prices. For example, winter flights to Denver can range from a wallet-friendly $54 to $89 roundtrip.
To stay on top of these deals, real-time alerts can be a game-changer. Services like Joe's Flights monitor fares at both DFW and Love Field 24/7, flagging price drops, flash sales, and rare mistake fares. The platform filters out less appealing offers, focusing on high-value savings tailored to Dallas-based travelers. Free members get one hot deal per week, while Premium members - at $59 a year - receive unlimited alerts, ensuring they never miss out on the best bargains.
Austin is just a short hop away from Dallas, with a quick 1-hour flight making it an ideal weekend getaway. With more than 130 nonstop flights each week, scheduling is a breeze. American Airlines operates 84 flights from DFW, while Southwest adds another 46 from Love Field.
Round-trip tickets typically cost around $327, but deals are often available. For instance, American Airlines has offered nonstop round-trips for as little as $228, with one-way fares starting at just $57. The best time to book? About 88 days ahead. Flying out on a Thursday or Sunday and coming back on a Friday usually nets the lowest prices. If you're looking for bargains, August is the month to go, with fares ranging from $110 to $340. On the other hand, February tends to be pricier, with tickets running between $240 and $400.
Once you land, Austin has no shortage of activities to fill your weekend. Cool off at Barton Springs Pool, a spring-fed swimming spot that stays a crisp 68°F all year. For stunning views, climb the 100 steps to Mount Bonnell, which stands nearly 800 feet tall and offers breathtaking panoramas. From March to October, don’t miss the nightly spectacle of 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerging from under the Congress Avenue Bridge - it's the largest urban bat colony in North America.
Austin’s reputation as the "Live Music Capital of the World" is well-earned. Explore the quirky bungalow bars on Rainey Street, try your hand at Texas two-stepping at the Broken Spoke (dance lessons are available Wednesday through Saturday at 8:30 PM), or enjoy some jazz at the Elephant Room. When hunger strikes, head to Veracruz All Natural for some of the city’s best tacos, or grab a famous breakfast taco at Juan in a Million for just $3.50.
With its lively music scene, outdoor adventures, and unbeatable food, Austin sets a high bar for quick escapes from Dallas.
Houston is just 247 miles from Dallas, making it one of the easiest weekend getaways. If you're flying, nonstop flights take between 1 hour 9 minutes and 1 hour 20 minutes. With 95 weekly nonstop flights from American Airlines and 79 from Southwest (departing Love Field to Hobby), you’ll have plenty of scheduling options.
Round-trip tickets generally cost between $134 and $222, depending on how far in advance you book. The ideal booking window is 35 to 45 days ahead, which can save you around 31% compared to last-minute fares. March is the best month for deals, with weekend flights priced between $50 and $150, while July tends to be the most expensive, with fares ranging from $155 to $260. For additional savings, consider flying on a Thursday instead of a Sunday to cut airfare by up to 16%, or book on a Sunday instead of a Friday to save another 6% to 13%.
Once you arrive, Houston offers an array of attractions perfect for a weekend escape. Space enthusiasts can’t miss NASA's Space Center Houston, which offers behind-the-scenes tours of the U.S. space program. Art and science lovers will enjoy the Museum District, home to renowned institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science - all within walking distance. For shopping, head to The Galleria, the fourth-largest shopping center in the country, featuring over 375 stores and even an indoor ice rink.
Foodies will love Houston’s thriving culinary scene, from casual food trucks to upscale dining. Nightlife seekers can explore the EaDo neighborhood, known for its Vegas-style spots like Sekai Night and Day, or hit Washington Avenue for boutique clubs such as Wyld Child. Visiting in March? Be sure to check out the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, one of the city’s biggest annual events.
For the easiest access to downtown, fly into William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), located just 11 miles from the city center, compared to 23 miles from George Bush Intercontinental Airport. If you're on a budget, public transit or a quick rideshare can get you downtown without breaking the bank.
San Antonio is about 247 miles from Dallas, with nonstop flights typically taking around 1 hour and 13 minutes. Both American Airlines (AA) and Southwest Airlines offer 11–12 daily direct flights, with AA reporting an on-time arrival rate of 66.8%.
Round-trip tickets generally range from $128 to $143. To snag the best deals, book at least four weeks in advance to save up to 56%. Flying on a Thursday can also save you up to 16%. February and April are the most budget-friendly months to visit, while July sees fares climb to between $175 and $275. Once you touch down, San Antonio's vibrant mix of history and attractions awaits.
From San Antonio International Airport (SAT), it’s an easy 30-minute VIA bus ride to downtown. A must-see is the 15-mile San Antonio River Walk, known for its picturesque boat cruises, diverse restaurants, and unique shops. History buffs should make time for The Alamo and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Texas's only UNESCO World Heritage site.
For a unique experience, explore The Pearl District, a former brewery turned trendy hub with a weekend farmers market and the historic Hotel Emma. Families will love the San Antonio Zoo, Tower of the Americas, and interactive spots like The DoSeum and the Witte Museum. Art enthusiasts can visit the immersive Hopscotch exhibit or the McNay Art Museum, while shoppers will enjoy Historic Market Square, home to over 100 shops and the largest Mexican market in the U.S..
Plan your trip around major events like the 11-day Fiesta San Antonio in April or "Remember the Alamo Weekend" in March. For a smoother return flight, aim to depart before 3 PM to avoid a 22% higher risk of delays.
At just 436 miles from Dallas, New Orleans is a quick getaway with nonstop flights taking as little as 1 hour and 20 minutes. You’ll find around 88 direct flights each week from DFW and Dallas Love Field, with airlines like Southwest, American Airlines, and Spirit Airlines covering the route.
Round-trip fares typically range between $221 and $233, but budget travelers can snag tickets for as low as $98 on Frontier or Spirit during February and March. Booking four weeks in advance could save you up to 67%. October tends to have the cheapest fares, with prices dropping about 22%, while November and December average around $246. Flying out on a Monday can help you save, but Sunday flights are often the priciest.
Once you arrive at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), rideshares and taxis are conveniently located outside Level 1, Door 7, ready to whisk you to the French Quarter. While there, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting iconic spots like Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the French Market, where you can sample local dishes and shop for handcrafted goods. Stop by Cafe Du Monde, open 24/7, for their famous beignets and café au lait - just try to get there before 7:30 AM to beat the crowds. For a scenic experience, hop on the St. Charles streetcar to take in the Garden District’s historic mansions.
If you want to catch New Orleans at its liveliest, plan your trip around major events like Mardi Gras (February/March), Jazz Fest (April/May), or the Essence Music Festival (July). Keep in mind, these are peak travel times, so booking well in advance is a must. Flying Southwest has the added perk of two free checked bags, which can help stretch your travel budget. Plus, flights from DFW are generally 33% cheaper compared to other Dallas-area airports.
For a hassle-free travel experience, download the DFW airport app to check real-time security wait times before heading out. If you prefer a smaller, more centrally located airport, consider flying Southwest from Love Field for added convenience. With these tips, your New Orleans adventure promises to be as smooth as it is unforgettable.
Denver, located 641 miles from Dallas, is just a quick 2-hour and 12-minute nonstop flight away. From Dallas, you’ll find plenty of flight options - 12 to 17 flights daily from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and about 8 from Dallas Love Field. Frontier Airlines often has the most budget-friendly fares, with one-way tickets starting at just $28 and round-trip options as low as $56. If you’re flying out of Love Field, Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, while American Airlines and United Airlines are popular choices from DFW.
For those looking to save, February is the sweet spot for booking weekend getaways, with average round-trip fares around $126 - approximately 25% below the yearly average. October is another prime time for deals. To snag the best prices, try flying Saturday to Friday, book 22 days ahead if departing from DFW, or plan 5 weeks in advance for Love Field departures. Avoid July, as fares typically spike by about 17% during this time.
Once you land at Denver International Airport, getting to the heart of the city is easy. Hop on the RTD A Line, which takes you downtown in just 40 minutes for about $10. From there, Denver’s mix of outdoor adventures and urban attractions awaits. Check out iconic spots like Red Rocks Amphitheatre or enjoy a scenic ride along the 40-mile Cherry Creek Trail. If you’re visiting during ski season (November to March), resorts like Keystone and Winter Park are just a short drive away. Summer visitors can explore Rocky Mountain National Park, located 71 miles north, or take a drive along the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, which climbs to over 14,000 feet - just remember to reserve your time slot in advance.
Denver’s food and drink scene is another highlight. With more breweries than any other U.S. city, the Denver Beer Trail is a must for craft beer enthusiasts. For dining, head to Union Station for an upscale experience or try the Denver Milk Market for a more laid-back vibe. Don’t miss the River North Art District (RiNo), where you’ll find street art, galleries, and live music at venues like Mission Ballroom. If your trip aligns with major events like the National Western Stock Show & Rodeo in January or "A Taste of Colorado" in September, plan ahead and book early, as these draw large crowds.
For travelers who value punctuality, United Airlines boasts an 82% on-time performance on this route, with morning flights generally experiencing fewer delays. And if you have extra time at DFW, take advantage of the walking path between Gates D6 and D40 or unwind in the airport’s yoga studio.
Denver perfectly combines outdoor adventure and urban culture, making it a fantastic destination for a quick weekend escape from Dallas.
Las Vegas is just a short 2-hour and 55-minute nonstop flight away from Dallas, making it a convenient getaway. Major airlines like Southwest, American Airlines, Frontier, and Spirit operate between the two cities, offering between 390 and 508 flights weekly [64,65]. For those looking to save, flying out of Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is your best bet, with fares averaging 57% lower than those from Dallas Love Field. Round-trip tickets have been known to drop as low as $69 from DFW and $147 from Love Field [66,67]. These budget-friendly fares and quick flights make Las Vegas an attractive option for a weekend escape.
For the best deals, aim to book your tickets 2–3 weeks in advance, which can save you 28%–41%. In February, fares typically range from $85–$173, while peak months like July, November, and December can see prices climb to around $419 [64,66,67]. Traveling on a Tuesday or Saturday often yields lower fares, and if you're flying Frontier or Spirit, one-way tickets can cost as little as $27–$48 [65,67]. Las Vegas combines fast travel with nonstop entertainment, making it a top pick for Dallas travelers.
Once you land, getting around is simple. Harry Reid International Airport is just 6 miles from the famous Las Vegas Strip, and you can quickly get to your destination via buses, taxis, or rideshares [66,69]. The city's attractions are conveniently clustered, making it easy to explore. Watch the iconic Bellagio Fountain show every 30 minutes, take in breathtaking views on the High Roller observation wheel, or enjoy free nightly concerts at the Fremont Street Experience [68,70]. For a change of pace, consider day trips to Red Rock Canyon, the Hoover Dam, or even the Grand Canyon via helicopter or bus [68,70].
Las Vegas also offers free activities, like the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden and morning casino game lessons at spots like Excalibur and Luxor. If you're flying Southwest, you'll be glad to know that only 16% of their flights experience delays, and morning departures are less likely to be delayed than afternoon or evening flights [66,67]. Planning outdoor activities? Avoid the summer months of June through August, when temperatures can soar to a sweltering 99°F [64,65].
Phoenix is just a 2-hour and 42-minute flight from Dallas, making it an easy desert getaway for a quick weekend trip. This route sees around 832 flights weekly, with American Airlines offering 78 nonstop flights from DFW and Southwest providing 51 from Dallas Love Field. Frontier also operates flights on this route, often with one-way fares starting as low as $29 [74,75,76].
Looking for the best deals? February is your month, with round-trip fares typically ranging from $65 to $190 - and sometimes even dropping to $57–$69. On the flip side, October tends to be the most expensive, with prices climbing to $135–$175. Booking two weeks in advance - ideally 40 days - can save you up to 27%. Flying out on a Thursday and returning on a Friday often results in even better savings [74,75,76,78]. Once you've secured your flight, Phoenix awaits with its mix of outdoor adventures and cultural attractions.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is just 3 miles from downtown, placing you close to some of the area's best desert experiences. Winter and spring are perfect times to visit, with temperatures in the mid-60s°F - ideal for hiking Camelback Mountain, wandering through the Desert Botanical Garden's 50,000+ plant displays, or exploring the Heard Museum ($22.50) and the Musical Instrument Museum ($20). Don't miss the Roosevelt Arts District, which comes alive during its "First Friday" art walks. With over 300 sunny days each year, Phoenix is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts [74,75,79,80].
The city also hosts major events like the Phoenix Open in late January through early February and the Great American Barbecue & Beer Festival in March. Sports fans can catch the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field or the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena. For a change of scenery, head two hours north to Sedona's stunning red rock formations or take a short drive to the Salt River for kayaking and paddleboarding. Just be sure to skip the summer months when temperatures often soar past 100°F [74,75,79].
Nashville is just 1 hour and 49 minutes away from Dallas by air, making it an ideal destination for a quick weekend getaway. Between DFW and Love Field, you’ll find 14–17 nonstop daily flights (69 weekly with American Airlines and 41 with Southwest), which makes planning your trip super convenient [87,88].
Round-trip fares typically average $249, but you can snag deals as low as $101–$104. August is often the sweet spot for finding cheaper flights, while prices tend to rise between March and May. For the best savings, aim to book at least four weeks in advance - around 88 days is the magic number for cutting costs by about 34%. Choosing to fly on a Tuesday instead of a Sunday also helps stretch your travel budget further [85,86,87]. Once you land, Nashville International Airport is just 6 miles from downtown, and WeGo Public Transit's Route 18 will get you there in about 15 minutes.
When it comes to entertainment, Nashville doesn’t disappoint. Spend your weekend soaking in live music, indulging in some hot chicken, and enjoying a dose of Southern hospitality. Lower Broadway's Honky Tonk Highway is the heart of the action, with neon-lit bars and live music pouring out of iconic spots like Tootsie’s and Robert’s Western World. For a truly legendary experience, catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry, where tickets range from $40 to $62. You can even take a backstage tour and stand on the same stage where country music greats have performed. Other must-see landmarks include the Country Music Hall of Fame (tickets $32) and the historic Ryman Auditorium, where self-guided tours cost about $35.
While music takes center stage, Nashville has plenty more to offer. Check out the full-scale Parthenon replica in Centennial Park or explore the buzzing food scenes in East Nashville and Germantown. If you’re feeling adventurous, take advantage of the city’s 80+ miles of paved bike trails to see more of what Nashville has to offer [90,91]. Events like Hot Chicken Week and CMA Fest bring in crowds, so you can plan your trip around these festivities - or avoid them, depending on your vibe.
"Nashville's food scene has gained national attention, its neighborhoods beyond downtown (like East Nashville) are vibrant and worth exploring, and if you're into sports, you can choose from football, soccer, hockey, and baseball." - Southern Living
Cancun is just a quick 2 hours and 41 minutes flight from Dallas, making it an ideal weekend beach getaway. Both Dallas-Fort Worth International and Love Field airports offer daily nonstop flights. American Airlines leads the pack with 49 weekly departures, but you’ll also find plenty of options with Spirit, Frontier, Southwest, United, and Delta.
Budget carriers have round-trip fares starting at $195–$234, while American and Southwest tickets typically range from $350 to $460. Want to save? Flying on a Thursday can cut costs by 16% compared to Sunday, and booking on Sunday instead of Friday saves an additional 6–13%. For the lowest prices, aim to travel in January, February, or April, and book at least two weeks ahead to snag discounts of up to 25%.
Once you land at Cancun International Airport, pre-book a taxi to avoid overpaying, and don’t forget your passport - it’s a must for U.S. travelers.
When you arrive, dive straight into the beach vibe. Start with Playa Delfines, Cancun’s largest free public beach and a favorite on TripAdvisor. For day trips, you can explore the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza on a budget-friendly tour, snorkel at the MUSA underwater museum, or hop on a catamaran to Isla Mujeres (starting at $30). Visiting between mid-June and August? Don’t miss the chance to snorkel with whale sharks.
"Coming here and not spending the day at one of the beaches is like going to Disney and not seeing Mickey Mouse." - Joan S, Destination Expert, TripAdvisor
Skip the all-inclusive resorts and head downtown to El Parque de las Palapas for authentic street food like cochinita pibil or browse the local mercado for a true taste of Mexico. For thrill-seekers, Xcaret Park (tickets from $114) and Xplor offer ziplining and white-water rafting adventures. Prefer something more low-key? The Mayan Museum of Cancun, located in the Hotel Zone, is a perfect cultural escape for just $14.
Albuquerque is just a short nonstop flight from Dallas, typically taking between 1 hour 42 minutes and 2 hours. Southwest Airlines offers direct flights from Dallas Love Field, while American Airlines provides nonstop service from DFW. Round-trip fares can start as low as $179, with one-way tickets available from about $96.
To snag the best deals, aim to book about 53 days in advance. Departing on a Thursday or Monday and returning on a Thursday can help you lock in fares around $179. Evening flights might save you an extra 12%. August is generally the cheapest month to fly, while February sees a slight price increase - about 6% - due to higher demand.
Once you land at Albuquerque International Sunport, located just 4 miles from downtown, the city’s rich heritage awaits. Start with Old Town, where adobe buildings dating back to 1706 surround the historic San Felipe de Neri Church. Nearby, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center provides a deep dive into the traditions of New Mexico's 19 Pueblos, and you can savor authentic Indigenous dishes at the Indian Pueblo Kitchen. For breathtaking views, take the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway to a 10,378-foot summit overlooking the desert landscape.
Breaking Bad fans will enjoy visiting iconic filming locations, including "The Breaking Bad Store ABQ" and "The Candy Lady". If you're visiting in early October, keep in mind that the International Balloon Fiesta draws large crowds over its 9-day run. Booking accommodations early is a smart move, or you can opt for a sunrise hot air balloon ride with operators like Rainbow Ryders. The high desert climate means crisp mornings and warm afternoons, so pack light layers for comfort.
To avoid the busiest times, consider traveling during the off-season (November through February), when flights are cheaper and tourist numbers are lower. Whether you're hiking through the ancient carvings at Petroglyph National Monument or enjoying the lively neon-lit breweries and nightlife along Route 66 in Nob Hill, Albuquerque offers a mix of culture, adventure, and affordability for a quick and memorable getaway from Dallas.
When it comes to booking weekend getaways from Dallas, speed is everything. Mistake fares and flash sales can vanish within hours. For example, Southwest often rolls out flash sales on Tuesdays around 3:00 PM, while ultra-low-cost carriers occasionally slash prices dramatically. If you're planning a last-minute trip, aim to book by Thursday to lock in the lowest fares. This urgency makes it crucial to keep an eye on all available airport options.
Dallas is served by two major airports - DFW and Love Field - and tracking both can expand your chances of finding a bargain. Love Field is heavily dominated by Southwest, which accounts for about 95% of its passenger traffic. Recent deals have included roundtrip flights to Austin for as little as $67 from Love Field, and flights to Phoenix dropping to just $47 on Frontier from DFW.
To make things easier, services like Joe's Flights monitor both airports around the clock, sending you instant alerts when fares drop. As Joe's Flights puts it, "You can tweak dates for hours, or you can get pinged when the fare drops and book in minutes". Their free plan offers one hot deal per week, while the Premium plan - priced at $59 per year - unlocks unlimited instant alerts.
Timing is just as important as speed when booking. For domestic weekend trips, booking 1–3 months in advance generally secures the best prices. If you're flexible with your travel dates, you can save 20–40% by leaving some wiggle room within a 1–2 week window. Flying on ultra-low-cost carriers like Frontier or Spirit? Stick to a personal item to dodge checked bag fees, which can eat into your savings. And don’t forget: midweek bookings often come with lower fares than weekend searches. Whether you're eyeing Austin for $67, Las Vegas for $54, or Cancun for under $200, acting fast is the secret to snagging these unbeatable deals.
To snag the best flight deals from Dallas, consider signing up for Joe’s Flights alerts. These notifications give you a heads-up when fares from DFW or Love Field drop, so you can jump on savings right away. Timing and flexibility are your best friends - aim to travel mid-week or during less busy, non-holiday periods. Being open to shifting your travel dates can also make a big difference.
For quick getaways, focus on short, direct flights to nearby spots like New Orleans, Austin, or Nashville. These routes, typically under two hours, often come with lower price tags. And when you spot a great deal, don’t wait - those cheap fares can vanish within hours. Stay adaptable and act fast to lock in budget-friendly weekend trips.
The most budget-friendly times to book flights from Dallas are usually during the quieter travel months like January and September, when fewer people are flying. May can also be a good time to find affordable fares, particularly if you plan ahead.
Flight prices often depend on your destination and how early you book. Being flexible with your travel dates can make a big difference in landing the best deals!
If you're thinking about a weekend escape from Dallas, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines are worth checking out. These airlines are popular for their wallet-friendly fares, making them ideal for quick, budget-conscious trips.
That said, ticket prices can fluctuate based on where you're headed and when you plan to travel. Booking early and staying alert for price changes can help you snag the best deals.
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