Gruene Hall, built in 1878, is Texas' oldest continually operating dance hall. While the Texas Hill Country is a vast area, there are a few towns that we absolutely loved spending some time in while road-tripping across Texas. Born and raised in Italy, I have been living in many different countries for 4 years and in Cancun Mexico for 7 until in 2017 I decided to leave my office job and explore the world, with lots of bags and a camera. Wimberley. Also on site are a gift and rock shop, nature trails, and RV and camping options. The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful areas of Central Texas with rolling hills, rivers and abundant wildlife. document.write(theYear) So much of the area is photo-worthy, so grab your camera and take the back roads to discover Texas Hill Country. Let us know by nominating your favorite communities, parks, and towns right here! Once inside Wildseed Farms, walk the half-mile of trails in the display gardens. The breathtaking view of the waterfall and the peaceful sound of the rushing waters make the trek well worth every step. This town boasts two of the most popular swimming holes in Texas. Check out the best places to spend Christmas in Texas to learn more. People will drive from all over to indulge in some smoked meats in Luling Texas. We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. Her culinary, wine, and travel photography adventures have led her across Peru from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu; up the Canadian Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Banff and Jasper, indulging in Fairmont luxury hotels; and to the four largest islands of Hawaii. Whether she's participating in a wine tasting, restaurant review, or local craft beer or distillery tour, Janie posts her adventures at Journey Mapped. After spending the day in the sun, head to the town square for some local shopping and good eats! But in the Hill Country, you might suspect a road was paved purely for pleasureto take drivers past stirring vistas, expansive pastures, and dense spreads of bluebonnets. In far West Texas, between the Davis Mountains and Big Bend, lies Marfa. Head to Saks off Fifth, Nordstrom Rack, or my favorite Lululemon. 7 Best Places to Live in Texas Hill Country - Top Small Towns & Big Cities Last Updated: January 29, 2023 We found the best places to live in Texas Hill Country so that you can enjoy the scenic landscapes, calm rivers, and charming small towns of this region. Over the last decade, many have visited and then just stayed. Fort Davis, with its frontier cabins, museum, and nearby state park, is one of the coolest places you can visit in the Lone Star State. Well known for camping on the cliffs overlooking Lake Travis, Pace Bend Park features boating, swimming on the beach, and miles of hike, bike, and equestrian trails. She has met the coolest people and believes to have seen the prettiest places and never wants it to stop. We are your resource for Hill Country travel, things to do, places to eat, This Texas-size expanse covers the entire Chisos mountain range, a huge portion of the Chihuahuan Desert, Santa Elena Canyon and natural hot springs. Search for wildflowers with an early morning hike at Enchanted Rock. Keep in mind that participants must be physically fit, non-claustrophobic, and able to swim. Youll see waterfalls, rose gardens, exotic birds, and a trail across the Zoysia grass through fairways with challenging bunkers and water hazards. For even more dramatic driving, head to where the hills get larger and take on shapes like traffic cones and gumdrops. Other beloved Hill Country dance halls include theTwin Sisters Dance Hallin Blanco,Mercer Dancehallin Driftwood, andJohn T. Floore's Country Storein Helotes. The arts community here is also thriving, with numerous studios and galleries, along with the Port Aransas Art Center and the Port Aransas Community Theatre. Float down the Comal River and then grab a drink at Rockin' R. Grab a Texas Pecan coffee at Gruene Coffee Haus. On weekends, local bands play on the outdoor stage. Dripping Springs is my favorite place to do a wine tour. After all, when you live in the Lone Star State, you've got access to the best cuisine around, and that's always a big plus. You have plenty of choices if you want to swim in the Hill Countryfrom the more widely known Blue Hole in Wimberley to Hamilton Pool, a massive crater created when the dome over an underground river caved in. Wrapping it up, dont forget your sun hat and sunscreen, because life is better at the lake. 13 Unforgettable Texas Hill Country Towns to Visit (+ Map) Climbing to the top takes less than an hour (albeit a very strenuous, sweaty hour) and belongs on any TX Hill Country bucket list! It must be something in the water because the watermelons in Luling seem to just be bigger, juicier, and sweeter than anywhere else. When German immigrants arrived in Gillespie County, they brought with them a love of education leading to the first school being built in the center of Main Street in 1847. The incomparable Farm Road 337 in the southern part of the Hill Country, west of San Antonio, winds from Medina through Vanderpool to Leakey, skirting rock ledges where oaks and cacti barely cling to solid ground. History buffs will enjoy learning about the area and seeing odd curiosities at the Frontier Times Museum, while those seeking a foot-stompin' good time will find just that at "the biggest little bar in Texas," 11th Street Cowboy Bar. Between Austin and San Antonio, you'll find Wimberley, a nature lover's Eden. theYear=theYear+1900 Another stunning natural wonder, Hamilton Pool, was formed when an underground river collapsed. Visit three parks with beaches at Canyon Lake. Of course, we have three major mountain ranges: the Franklin, the Guadalupe, and the Davis Mountain Range, but most people don't know about the hundreds of others waiting to be explored. Chow down on a tasty meal at the food truck. Cruise around Horseshoe Bay and Applehead Island to view multimillion-dollar mansions owned by ultra-rich Texans, professional athletes, local astronauts, and Hollywood personalities. Known for Texas oldest dance hall, Gruene Hall continues to host concerts, dance contests and is the perfect place to grab a beer with a new friend. Southern Livingphotographer Van Chaplin traveled over 600 miles through the Hill Country photographing flowers. Pie is what has made this cafe the most famous one in Texas, and you should stop in for a slice if you dont want to miss out. Two of the most stunning rivers in Texas run right through New Braunfels making it a perfect summer escape. Photo: ShengYing Lin. There are many photo opportunities, whether its the livestock, the buildings and tools, or an action shot of one of the rangers performing daily chores. Dripping Springs' most famous attraction is the Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve, a breathtaking natural grotto and wildly popular swimming hole in the summer. Pro Tip: Bring a tripod to keep the camera steady when shooting at long distances. It has become the home of many famous artists, musicians, and historians that are looking for small-town life. It is nowadays known to have the best peaches in the state. 1. Lakeside Park in Marble Falls is a green space with covered picnic tables, barbecue pits, a swimming pool, a pavilion, tennis and basketball courts, restroom facilities, and a boat ramp. Texass capital city is almost everyones favorite city in and out of Texas. 1. Horseshoe Bay Resort is THE place to stay on the lake with luxurious accommodations, family-friendly amenities, and world-class golf. This small town is right on the Comal River and has some beautiful views. With more than 268,000 square miles, Texas offers lots of room to roam. In the spring, wildflowers dot nearly every corner of the landscape but find particularly vibrant ones on Farm Road 1323, which heads west off U.S. 281 about three miles north of Johnson City. The towns saloon is world-famous and has hosted hundreds of Texas country music artists over the years. Stop in at Dripping Springs Vodka for a tasting of its small-batch vodka and gin, or check out Treaty Oak Distilling to sample its whiskey. Readers of her USA by Rail blog have come to expect an intimate look at authentic experiences. A headlamp will come in handy for helping you see while youre setting up your camera. I have never looked back ever since. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Known as The gateway to the Texas hill country Blanco, is a small town on the outskirts of the region. Winemaker Ron Yates makes the best-quality wines from Texas-grown grapes. You will remember the view and the sound because this rock talks. Grab your keys and lets explore the 17 most charming towns to visit in the hill country. 15 Top Texas Wineries You Need to Visit From the Texas Hill Country to the Texas High Plains, the Lone Star State offers top-notch wineries for oenophiles. People drive from all over to listen to some live music, boot scoot across the dance floor, and drink a cold Lone Star beer in this famous small town. Among the most fun things to do in New Braunfels head to one of the Tube shops to spend the day floating on the clear water, make sure to pack a cooler and some snacks to enjoy the long float. If you have another day, take a wine and brewery tour from Wimberley to the nearby town of San Marcos. I have no specific travel goals if not just to travel because the journey is my destination. Texas Hill Country Facebook page is growing by over 1,000 fans per Check out some of our favorite Texas towns with breathtaking scenery and fall in love with TX all over again. Get there when you drive out to 14529 Pocahontas Trail in Leander and start with a training session ensuring your safety and fun. If you appreciate Victorian architecture Georgetown is a must. Sure, check out the popular Prada Marfa sculpture outside of town for that iconic Instagram photo, but don't miss things like The Chinati Foundation, an internationally known contemporary art museum created by minimalist artist Donald Judd. If you happen to be here in the Fall, lookout for their famous two-week-long German-themed Wurstfest. It's the nation's second-largest granite dome, next to Georgia's Stone Mountain. Savor 2016 The Good Guy, a blend of Tempranillo, Graciano, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon with aromas of fresh cherries and graphite with flavors of raspberries and cedar. You can tour the caves on your own or go with an experienced guide. Jump off the limestone rocks into Jacobs well natural area, and deep natural spring that used to be a famous scuba diving spot. Boerne. The River Road takes you through four river crossings, tree tunnels, campgrounds, farmlands, ranches, and ultimately ending at the glorious Overlook Park. If you are in the hill country during the holidays, Fredericksburg is a great place to get you in the spirit. CONTACT: Isabella @ boundlessroads.com | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube, Click on the image to open the Map Photo Google Map. And though compact, these picture-perfect small towns pack in big-time appeal, with festivals, great hiking, wineries, art installations, historic edifices, and stunning beauty everywhere you turn. The 400-room resort hosts various dining options, a relaxing day spa, tennis, fitness facilities, and a full-service marina. These generous fields of lavender at Becker Vineyards, 12 miles east of Fredericksburg, along US Hwy 290 are unparalleled in beauty. One of the most famous cities in the hill country is Johnson City. Read more about all the things to do in San Antonio, Texas. For history and charm, this pre-Civil War town in East Texas is just the ticket. See them for yourself atTres Lunas Resort, a 112-acre spread on a ridge with little distracting artificial light. Its also a great spot to grab lunch and some delicious peach ice cream. Marble Falls is home to the famous Blue Bonnet Cafe. She moved to West Africa in hopes of seeing the world and has not been disappointed. Carae is a born and raised Texan and a lover of new places and adventure. Tourists visit the Hill Country for more than just delightful vineyards, sparkling rivers, and lovely scenery! Go kayaking at Canyon Lake in Central Texas. Wrights Creek Railroad Bridge, Llano County, Enchanted Rock, Enchanted Rock State Park, Photo: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas Hill Country Olive Company Groves, Dripping Springs, Edwards Plateau Formation, Garner State Park, Texas Wine Trail Vineyards, Fredericksburg, The Devils Backbone, Runs from Wimberley to Blanco. Lastly, end the day at The Auslander for some traditional German sausage and a heavy pint of beer. If planning a visit to Texas Hill Country, check out the best things to see and do in Fredericksburg and all our Texas Hill Country tips here. Everything is bigger and better in Texas - and that includes life down here, too! to visit in 2022. Here, in no particular order, are seven of the most scenic places in Texas Hill Country. Theres always an excuse to be on the water. This little town has evidence of human life from 10,000 years ago! Its main draw is its bounty of wine with over 50 wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms in the area. Go in the spring for a spectacular show of bluebonnet, Mexican hat, poppy, Indian blanket, and so much more. Plan to spend at least two days here as the beautiful Enchanted Rock state natural area park is close by and is a must-do in the hill country. In the ankle-to-waist-deep depths, people set up volleyball nets, jam to music, play Frisbee, and soak up the sunshine. A Senior Partial is available for Texas residents over age 65. The 25 Best places to visit in Texas Hill Country, The top 13 Glamping Spots in Hill Country Texas, 17 top Art Museums in Texas that you should visit, 39 fun things to do in Katy Texas All the top attractions and activities, Insider guide to the most beautiful natural hot springs in Texas, 30 Best Things To Do In Corpus Christi, Texas, The 7 best beach towns in Texas to visit in 2022, 15 Magical Sunflower fields in Texas (and farms!) Read more about Texas Caverns here. Love Texas? The second largest lake in Central Texas, Lake Buchanan, is located 60 miles northwest of Austin and is known for boating, camping, swimming, and fishing. The beautiful Canyon Lake is one of the most romantic destinations in the Texas Hill Country. You'll also find plenty of galleries, shopping, and dining, while the Round Top Area Historical Society tells the history of the town. A bit further south of Austin off Interstate 35 sits the lovely town of Wimberley, yet another Hill Country charmer. Falls Creek Park and Skatepark are connected, featuring a 12,000-square-foot concrete and granite park with incredible skating features like The Parthenon Loop, Rainbow Rail, the Bowless Corner, and Double-Dorito Hip. Here, you'll see a magnolia tree that was planted as a seedling by former first lady Lady Bird Johnson. There's a reason you'll find stickers everywhere pleading to Keep Austin Weird. With 6,534 surface acres and a maximum of 90 feet in depth, Lake LBJ offers the best fishing, boating, and overall fun. Copyright 2008 - Pro Tip: For taking photos in the caverns, use a flash or bring an off-camera flash. There is a seed spitting contest, a watermelon eating contest, and every year they judge who can grow the biggest watermelon. 2) Fort Davis cynical pink/flickr chris vreeland/flickr Located a quick 25 minutes from Austin, this town tucked in the hill country is your perfect escape. Situated along the Guadalupe River, this picturesque town is at the center of some of Hill Country's finest scenic road trip routes. Nearby, Blue Hole Regional Park offers trails, picnic spots, and an amphitheater, among other fun activities you can enjoy whether or not the swimming hole is open. Some of my favorite stops in this town are the Wimberley cafe and The Shady Llama for a cold beer. Texas Hill Country has everything you wantwildflowers, waterfalls, wine tastings, and Western dancing. Copyright 2022 Travel + Leisure Co. All Rights Reserved. A quarter-mile trail takes you to the pool, where you can spot golden-cheeked warblers and other bird species along the way. Take a winery tour of Wine Road 290, and then visit the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area for a hike. You might find locals gathering around a cake to celebrate someone's birthday or clapping with a guitarist there. Learn about Jewish history during WWII at the Holocaust and Historic Model Ship Museum, grab a Texas-sized burrito at Marfa Burrito, or shop for local artisan goods at boutiques like Cobra Rock and Skra Marfa. The last weekend in June visitors will gather in this small town for all things watermelon. She has been traveling around the world solo for 3 years now. Orchard owners Baxter and Carol Adams moved from Houston to Medina in 1980 to start a cattle ranch. For a panoramic view above Wimberley, climb 218 steps to the top of Old Baldy (Prayer Mountain) for spectacular Hill Country views. Volente Beach Resort and Waterpark is the place to gather on the shores of Lake Travis. Known as the lavender capital of Texas, this little town hosts a lavender festival every year for people from all over to come to enjoy the wildflower. Stretching along the Rio Grande River, you will find the Big Bend Ranch State Park in Presidio, offering spectacular mountain and canyon views, great hiking and camping, and virtual solitude in over 300,000 acres of rugged west Texas wilderness. They're one more reason Architectural Digest chose Fredericksburg as the prettiest town in Texas. You can find hiking trails near the Fort, a couple of which connect to Davis Mountains SP. One of the most famous outdoor activities in Boerne is visiting the Cave Without a Name. Its. Lake Travis Zipline Adventures boasts five zip lines ranging from 250 feet to the longest and fastest zipline in the Lone Star State at an incredible 2,800 feet. No major highways run through town as it's tucked away in the rolling hills of the beautiful Texas Hill Country, but it's accessible from Austin and San Antonio. Nestled along the banks of the San Saba River and among acres of pecan trees, the Hill Country town of San Saba offers the best of small-town life and outdoor adventure. It was less crowded, and the water was glassy early in the morning, perfect for waterskiing. And make sure to check out the serene herb garden and on-site restaurant. Pro Tip: Use negative space when you can. I learned to water ski years ago on Lake LBJ. Texas Hill Country. Known for water recreation, tubing the Guadalupe River is tops on your list of fun. Austin Best Places to Stay The "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin is home to more than 100 live music venues. Bring fishing gear and camping supplies if youd like to spend some time at Colorado Bend State Park. Here's our guide to our favorite off-the-beaten-path adventures deep in Texas's heart. If you visit in the summer, you're bound to see a fishing tournament, or you can try surfing, kayaking, or kiteboarding with a local guide. If you are looking to beat the heat in the Texas Hill Country then look no further than Wimberley! A vigorous 2.2-mile journey, Rimrock Trail takes you across the picturesque plateau to a gorgeous overlook. Dont forget your sunscreen! Depending on your skill level, choose from several trails at the park for a hike. Snowy apple blossoms welcome you to the pocket-size town of Medina. An ideal location and wealth of outdoor fun makes Blanco a year-round traveler hot spot. 17 Most Charming Texas Hill Country Towns and cities to visit in 2023 By Carae Hilcher January 1, 2023 The Hill Country has seen a huge flux of visitors over the last few years and it's no surprise. The park protects whitetail deer, raccoon, fox, ringtail cat, and dozens of bird species. Visit the Tuscan-inspired tasting rooms, enjoy a wine tasting, or take a guided tour with barrel samples from their selection of 90+ point wines. To get the lakes layout, visit Worry B Gone Cruises for a customized cruise on LBJ on a 21-foot pontoon boat lasting 2.5 hours. Round Rock is located right outside of North Austin, it is considered a small suburb of the area but this little town comes with a lot of fun things to do for a day out of the city. Don't miss Royers Pie Haven, which serves up some of the best pies in the state the Texas Trash pie is positively sinful. Her latest adventure was a Viking Cruise to the Norwegian Homelands. One additional person may assist you at 50 percent of the entry fee. After a long day, head to Fiesta Winery for a party and a flight of wine. Depending on your skill level, choose from several trails at the park for a hike. Be sure to wear a lifejacket or borrow one of the loaner jackets posted around. Youll see rugged cliffs, waterfalls, wildflowers, and sunsets from the climate-controlled double-decker cruise boat. Located on i-35 in between San Antonio and Austin, this German town is a must-see in the hill country. As a Kansas City expert, Jills travel guide, The Best of Kansas City: 3-Day Itinerary, launched number one in its category on Amazon. From desert art installations to kayak trips through the bayou, here's where to enjoy small-town charm in Texas. Music is a massive part of the Hill Country culture that one whole town,Luckenbach, is dedicated to it. The saying Everybody is somebody in Luckenbach still stands true today and every weekend this small hill country town welcomes people from all over. There is usually something going on every weekend in Blanco, whether it be a cycle meet-up or their local farmers market that is hosted every 3rd Saturday of the month. McKinney Falls State Park. Spend the day paddleboarding ladybird lake, taking in museums, or walking South Congress. You will find yourself wanting to call these hill country towns home soon enough. Nightlife is also popular, with bars and restaurants regularly hosting musical acts. Photo: Blake Mistich. The lake is a reservoir on the Colorado River in the Texas Hill Country about 45 miles northwest of Austin, formed in 1950. Do you know what the song says about the stars being big and bright deep in the heart of Texas? What other Texas towns with breathtaking scenery would you add to the list? Go underground for amazing photos at Cascade Caverns. The charm and heritage of these small towns run much deeper than the Guadalupe river. Pro Tip: With moving animals, take lots of photos. Wake up to the smell of rosemary, thyme, and other fresh scents when you stay in one of the cottages at theHill Country Herb Garden, a garden, day spa, and place to visit, all in one. Known for being the home of former President Lyndon B. Johnson, Johnson City is a Hill Country escape full of beauty and history. Made famous by Waylon Jennings' song of the same name, it's been a favorite venue of country stars Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, and more. 20 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the U.S. Liability is limited here, so take it easy and dont get hurt. Just 25 miles outside Austin, Dripping Springs is a mecca for those who love spirit tastings, as the town is full of distilleries. You can still see evidence of the geologic event in the cavern walls. With 6,534 surface acres and a maximum of 90 feet in depth, Lake LBJ offers the best fishing, boating, and overall fun. Pro Tip: For access to rental boats on the lakes, check out GetMyBoat here. This is Isabella, a serious case of wanderlust! If you find yourself here in the late spring you might catch the vines in full bloom with a grape picking event. Founded in 1846 by Prince Frederick of Prussia, it is the sister city of Montabaur, Germany, and much of the quaint town shows strong German influences. The Texas Hill Country is the cowboy capital and a place people come for vacation and find themselves never leaving! The town has so many vineyards its hard to keep track these days. Start with a drive along the majestic River Road, 10 miles alongside the Guadalupe River lined with enormous Cypress trees between Canyon Lake and New Braunfels. Now, she enjoys travelingand writing aboutthe U.S. and Canada by train. Passing through Marble Falls, you will witness some of the largest hills in this part of Texas, plus you have the chance to stop by the gorgeous Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, pictured above. if (theYear < 1900) At the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm, park rangers in period clothing perform daily chores such as preserving meat, baking bread, churning butter, and more. I mentioned Saltlick BBQ in Roundrock, but the restaurant got its start at its first location in Driftwood and is world-famous for its smoked meats. We also run the premiere real-estate site in the hill country at HillCountryRealestate.com. Among the most historical Texas hill country towns, Kerrville is home to one of the oldest settlements in Texas. When you get to Blanco, about an hour's drive southwest of Austin, roll down the windows and take a deep breath. TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. Canyon Lake features lodges, cabins, bed and breakfasts, cottages, hotels, vacation rentals, campgrounds, and RV parks. Its 1920s-era furnishings offer a glimpse of what rural life in Texas was like at the time. This small city has multiple distilleries, wineries, and breweries for you to visit depending on your drink of choice. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Beyond all of that, life in Texas tends to be affordable thanks to our low cost of living, and you'll find the cities and towns are safe places to raise your family. ct intro final View All Trips Marble Fall is another fun town to visit, with stunning scenery and access to Texas vineyards. Janie H. Pace is a travel writer and photographer based in Fort Worth, Texas. Road warriors will enjoy driving along the Devil's Backbone, a scenic highway that runs through Wimberley and the surrounding towns. Out west, the roads seem to go on forever, and history is on display right in front of your eyes just about everywhere you go. You'll find stone architecture by acclaimed architect Alfred Giles and many restaurants and shops, includingHigh's Cafe & StoreandThe Elephant Story. Ancient live oaks and white-flowering yucca plants decorate the roadsides, and green grasses cling to limestone outcrops. Mckinney Falls is a state park just a few minutes away from Austin and is known for waterfalls that feed into swimming holes. 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Walk Along The Beach With An Ice Cream Cone In Hand From Scoopys In Texas For A Welcome Dose Of Nostalgia, This Off-The-Beaten-Path Park In Texas Is The Perfect Place To Escape, This Texas Botanical Garden Is One Of The Best Places To View Summer Wildflowers, Enjoy Some Much Needed Peace And Quiet In This Charming Texas Small Town, What Youll Find In These 10 Small Towns In Texas May Surprise You, Texas Most Naturally Beautiful Town Will Enchant You In The Best Way Possible, This 83-Mile Drive Is The Best Way To See Texas Stunning Coast, This Tiny Texas Town Is One Of The Happiest Places In America. Check out the more than 5,000 acres of plateaus and canyons at the Hill Country State Natural Area or spend the day kayaking along the Medina River. You may even see the blacksmith in the blacksmith shop.