central texas towns to visit

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8 Charming Central Texas Towns Less Than an Hour Away

Those who are new to San Marcos, Texas, and our campground are always astonished by how much there is to do in our area. The Central Texas region surrounding us, including Texas Hill Country, is full of charming small towns. You can spend a half or full day wandering around each one: visiting boutique shops, exploring history museums, tasting local wine and food, or relaxing in a swimming hole.

For those who are new to the area, here’s your crash course guide to 8 charming Central Texas towns less than an hour away from Pecan Park Riverside RV Park in San Marcos.

1/ Lockhart

Credit: Wally Gobetz via Flickr CC

20 minutes away

Go hungry when you make your way to Lockhart, the “Barbecue Capital of Texas.” The three meat-loving cornerstones are The Original Black’s Barbecue , Smitty’s Market , and Kreuz Market . Try to visit them all in one day for an accurate comparison. Just don’t expect to fit in your pants afterwards. (And don’t expect barbecue sauce. This meat is so good that many of the joints don’t provide condiments.)

Loop & Lil’s Pizza is another local restaurant we love. Nice people, welcoming atmosphere, good food. 

There are three Lockhart events you should know about. First Friday takes place downtown on the first Friday of each month, from 5-8 p.m. Shop local merchants and meet the locals.

Sip & Stroll is an annual festival that highlights the historic square with food, drink, music, and more. The event usually takes place in April. 

Chisholm Trail Roundup is the biggest local event of the year, a full weekend of rodeo events and music. The festival celebrated 46 years in June 2018.

And when you’re ready to unwind in nature (and walk off all that barbecue), Lockhart State Park  features a historic golf course, fishing, geocaching, and a junior ranger program. Rental electric carts and clubs are available for the golf course.

2/ Gruene 

Gruene Hall (Credit: arsheffield via Flickr CC)

25 minutes away

We could write a full article about Gruene (pronounced “green”) because there’s so much to do. Stop for a beer and live music at Gruene Hall , the oldest continuously operating dance hall in Texas. Then wander next door to Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar for a delicious meal. If it’s a nice day, ask for a seat out back overlooking the river.

The unique shops on main street could keep you occupied for a full day, all on their own. When  Gruene Market Days comes around (full weekend, once a month), you’ll really have your fill of antiques and artisan goods.

Last but not least, the Christmas town lighting and related holiday events are really something to see. Nothing will put you in the holiday season like hearing the gasp from the crowd as this beautiful town illuminates in shiny lights, with Old Kris Kringle looking on from the saddle of his horse.

You will love Gruene.

3/ Wimberley

Jumping into Blue Hole in Wimberley (Credit: annaspies via Flickr CC)

30 minutes away

Wimberley is another small town (population 3,000) that manages to supply countless points of interest. Wimberley Glassworks is a must, where you can watch a free and fascinating glassblowing demonstration.

For the adventurous spirit, Wimberley Zipline Adventures is a lot of fun. Once you’ve taken a day time tour, you’re “qualified” to run the course at nighttime, which is something special. 

This area is full of swimming holes, such as 7A Ranch (day pass required), Blue Hole Regional Park (reservation required), and Jacob’s Well . Swimming at Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well is seasonal, roughly May through September.

Other highlights include hiking up Lookout Mountain , dining at  The Leaning Pear , experiencing a tasting at  Cypress Creek Rum Distillery , and seeing Wimberley Holiday Trail of Lights .

4/ Driftwood

Behold the barbecue pit at The Salt Lick (Credit: Wally Gobetz via Flickr CC)

35 minutes away

Driftwood doesn’t have a walkable main street like many of the towns on this list. However, you won’t go home hungry or thirsty. 

The Salt Lick is famous in the region. Spend an hour or two at the original location with a wine glass in hand, relaxing in the shade of the oak trees. When you’re ready, get a table and inhale some of the best Texas barbecue around. You can even stop at the pit and ask for a sample of meat.

If you haven’t had your fill yet, drive eight minutes to Duchman Family Winery , one of the most beloved staples of Texas Wine Country. The selections here are made of 100% Texas grapes.

Or if you’d like to try something more exotic, Desert Door is a newcomer to our area, distilling a spirit called sotol. Get an education while trying a unique cocktail you can tell your friends about.

5/ Dripping Springs

Hamilton Pool (Credit: Darrell Miller via Flickr CC)

45 minutes away

A few years ago, Dripping Springs may not have made this article. But today, the area is exploding as an affordable alternative to Austin.

And we really mean exploding. It’s hard to know what to suggest first. A meal at  Rolling in Thyme & Dough , Crepe Crazy , or  The League Kitchen & Tavern ?

A drink at  Sidecar Tasting Room ,  Treaty Oak Distilling , San Luis Spirits  (tours available), or Mazama Coffee Co ?

Or what about “hopping” around the craft breweries in the area, including  Jester King Brewery , Last Stand Brewing Company , and  Twisted X Brewing Company ?

This is barely scratching the surface of the standout local businesses in the area.

When it comes to outdoor activity, Hamilton Pool is that bucket list item you’ve got to do at least once. The place has become so popular that reservations are now required for most of the year, so make sure you plan ahead.

Canoes available for use at Bastrop State Park (Credit: TrekTexas.com )

50 minutes away

To the northeast of us, Bastrop is home to a few points of interest.  Bastrop and Buescher State Park have both come a long way since the wildfires of 2011, which burned 34,000 acres. Today, both state parks are beautiful respites, featuring opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and ranger programs. 

Dinosaur Park is a fun stop for kids and kids at heart. The nature trail is unlike any you’ve probably ever seen, with life-sized dinosaurs of all kinds!

When it’s time to eat, Roadhouse Bastrop is a good bet.

Last, but not least, make Bastrop a part of your Christmas season, with Bastrop River of Lights and the Lighted Christmas Parade.

Blanco State Park (Credit: Texas Parks and Wildlife via Flickr CC)

Blanco visitors enjoy wandering around the quaint town square, which features local dining at  Old 300 BBQ and  Redbud Cafe , and hosts the  Bluebonnet Festival every April.

Blanco State Park is a fabulous swimming hole, especially if you have a tube for relaxing in the deeper water.  Hill Country Lavender is another stop you’ll enjoy, if you’re visiting at the right time of year. The season usually begins in May, and you can stroll through the perfumed fields to cut your own lavender.

When it’s time to hydrate, Ben Milam Whiskey and Real Ale Brewing Company are Blanco originals.

8/ Canyon Lake

Canyon Lake (Credit: Will-travel via Flickr CC)

55 minutes away

When you want to experience that #lakelife, there’s nowhere quite like Canyon Lake. Pick your boat rental of choice at Canyon Lake & Cranes Mill Marinas  and stock up on supplies at the marina store before spending a day on the water.

If you’d prefer to enjoy the lake view from shore, then Overlook Park is a good choice.

As far as we’re concerned, we’d drive all the way to Canyon Lake just for the pancakes at Granny D’s, where breakfast is served all day. Specialty pancake options include caramel apple with pecans, cinnamon roll, carrot cake, and banana foster!

Exploring Small Central Texas Towns

We hope you feel equipped to get out and explore the Central Texas towns within an hour of our campground! We’d love to hear your questions and suggestions. We love this region we call home and hope you will, too.

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16 small towns near Austin you need to visit

Something for everyone in the heart of Texas

This post was originally published in October 2016 and has been updated.

Sure, there's no shortage of things to do in Austin, but sometimes it's fun to get away—especially, this time of year, in an air-conditioned vehicle. Luckily, Central Texas is a full of interesting small towns with distinct cultures, highlights, and histories.

Important note: A stop at a Buc-ee's is absolutely mandatory on any Texas road trip. We'll let you discover those on your own.

Are we missing any of your favorite small-town Texas destinations? Tell us in the comments, or drop us a line .

Even if it’s too hot to hike (and for you, it might not be), a trip Enchanted Rock, near the town of Llano, is a must. A rock formation caused by the Llano Uplift, when granite pushed its way to the surface around the area, Enchanted Rock is a favorite of hikers and mystical wisdom-seekers. In addition to the odd formation itself, the area has a whole “rock culture” due to the fact that there are rare earth minerals that are scattered all over the county—including “Llanite,” a kind of granite unique to the area. The charming town square has a rock shop and other quaint stores, as well as the legendary Dabbs Hotel, part of the Historic Railyard District and reputed Bonnie-and-Clyde stop (as well as home to many an Austin-instigated overnight punk rock party in the 1980s and 90s), and the LanTex Theater, a classic theater still showing current movies. Cooper's Pit Bar-B-Q is also some of the best you'll find.

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Long known as the original location of Louie Mueller Barbecue, which is in perpetual contention for the coveted (and unofficial) “best barbecue in Texas” label, Taylor has of late become a mecca for some of the coolest kids of Old Austin, who have been relocating (shhh) to its remarkable Victorians and other old-timey homes in the area. Visitors will find plenty enjoy in that vein, as well, especially on its self-guided architectural walking tour, which features buildings dating back to the 1870s. Plenty of diverse restaurants, bars, and live-music spots have expanded the culinary scene, though a stop at Mueller’s in ore or less mandatory for first-timers.

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Oh, Elgin. How we take you for granted. Some see you as a bedroom community, but you are so, so much more than that. Yes, you are known for your formidable sausages, but few know that just half an hour or so from Austin lies a quite picturesque, still quite operational downtown whose businesses include restaurant, general store, and unofficial city history center Elgin Local Goods and retail gems like the Owl Wine Bar & Home Goods.

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Johnson City

Known as the “Crossroads of the Texas Hill Country,” Johnson City claims the LBJ National Historical Park, the place President Lyndon Baines Johnson made his “Texas White House” when he was in office. He grew up in the town, which was founded by one of his uncles. For those not inclined to tour the house and grounds, the Pedernales State Park nearby offers a refreshing dip in a cool, clear river. Pecan Street Brewing and Garrison Distillery offer still more forms of entertainment. As do longhorn sightings.

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Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg has long attracted visitors who appreciate its natural beauty, old-timey downtown strip, cute B&Bs, vineyards, and wineries. Lately, it has become a bit of a culinary destination as well. Along with nearby New Braunfels, it keeps alive and celebrates the heritage of German immigrants who came to Central Texas in the 1800s.

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If you’re passing through the Hill Country, you might as well stop in Luckenbach, which is more of a country music reference and operating performance hall than a town. The town was primarily a trading post with a general store and a saloon for most of its life and was purchased by a rancher when the town’s population allegedly dwindled to 3. Country musician Jerry Jeff Walker recorded a live album there (somewhat confusingly called Viva Terlingua, after a different tiny Texas town), and it was made most famous in a song recorded by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings. The concert hall is hosts regular shows, and there are reportedly jam sessions there on Sunday nights. Also: great place for selfies.

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A trip to the Lost Pines, including the ones in Bastrop State Park, is practically mandatory for Austin residents and visitors alike. Like many towns on this list, it has a charming downtown, good local restaurants, live music, and, perhaps most awesomely, the Sherwood Forest Faire in nearby McDade. But it’s also a place where Central Texas starts transitioning to East Texas (hence the pines) with some especially marvelous outdoor exploring to be done.

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Only a few miles north of San Antonio, Blanco nevertheless retains a small-town feel, partly due to its proximity to the gorgeous Blanco State Park. It’s home to the Real Ale Brewing Company as well as several lavender farms (being “The Lavender Capital of Texas” and all), horseback riding opportunities, and hiking and swimming opportunities galore.

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Known country-wide (seriously) for its annual fall and spring antiques festivals (where many of Austin's most upscale home stores scoop up plenty of goods for resale), Round Top is also a beautiful Central Texas destination and home to the longtime Shakespeare at Winedale program, a summer residential program of the University of Texas wherein participants live onsite while developing performances of the Bard's plays in a local barn.

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Where to Eat and Drink in Round Top

In addition to being home to some of the area’s best swimming spots (The Blue Hole, Jacob’s Well) and other lovely stretches of cool water, Wimberley has wine tours and tastings galore, lots of laid-back meandering through vintage, thrift, and handcraft stores, and an entrance point to the Devil’s Backbone, one of the most scenic drives in the state.

Fayetteville

Located almost exactly halfway between Austin and Houston, Fayetteville offers a magic triad of Texas tourism: historic buildings, antique shopping, and nearby outdoor recreation (at Fayette Lake). Be sure to check out the understated courthouse, the historic Hugo Zapp Building/Country Place Hotel, and Red & White Gallery square, which shows mostly Texas artists and the occasional movie in a restored old building that retains its original sloped wood floor.

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Before Austin decided to get its BBQ on, Lockhart was the self-declared "Barbecue Capital of Texas," boasting three, then more (as family schisms multiplied the smoked bounty) purveyors of the preciously regarded Texas meat. But Lockhart has also long boasted some of the sweetest historic residences in the area, not to mention a town square that just says "small-town Texas," and has verily been featured in numerous movie and TV productions, from  What's Eating Gilbert Grape? to  Waiting for Guffman  to  The Leftovers . As Austin housing prices have pushed out many of its musicians, Lockhart has become a sort of satellite music capital, with many musicians moving, performing, and in some cases opening recording studios there.

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Well. If you have ever used and/or appropriated via graphic design the term "Come and Take It," you really should know about Gonzales. Created by another empresario, it was one of the first European-American settlements in Texas and was the site of the first skirmish in the Texas war for its (brief) independence, from which the "Come and Take It" and graphic accompaniment (a cannon) derives (Google it and learn lots). It's also home to Discovery Architecture, one of the area's best historic/architectural salvage outlets, and so many intact historic homes that in 2012, HGTV show  This Old House  named it one of its Best Old House Neighborhoods.

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Most of us have at least heard of Shiner beer, produces by the Spoetzl Brewery, which was local craft beer before that term really existed. The town is still the home of the state's oldest independent brewery, which continues to produce beer under the Shiner name, though it's now owned by San Antonio's Gambrinus Company. The town is also home to the historic Gaslight Theatre, a cigar factory, and the Wolters Museum. Let's also give props to local gas-station hangout Howard’s, which offers Shiner historical memorabilia, live music, and nine beers on tap.

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Castroville

First of all, Castroville was established by an empresario (Henri Castro, 1844), a word we love (it means, basically, a 19th-century developer). Further, Castro populated the town with immigrants from the Alsace region of Europe (bordering Germany and Switzerland in France) and the Grand Duchy of Baden. The local population maintained the distinctive architecture—think mostly tiny houses, but in the Alps—and, to a lesser extent, the Alsatian language and cuisine over the years. It's not exactly trapped in amber, and its Landmark Inn State Historic Site, typical of its architecture, is state-owned, inexpensive bed & breakfast, but it's uncanny how much influence from a very specific European regions remains.

Sometimes known as “the other Alamo,” Goliad is perhaps best known of site of a massacre in Texas’ battle for independence from Mexico. These days, it has much more life-affirming activities on offering, including a look at the restored, historic Presidio La Bahia and Mission Espiritu Santo. Built in 1749, they are the only Spanish Colonial mission-fort complex still in existence in the Western Hemisphere. It also has a recently established brewery, a lively town square, and a hike-and-bike trail.

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Paniolo Ranch

Read: 38 things to do in central texas: top attractions in the texas hill country, get inspired for your special day.

So you’re ready to visit The Hill Country and looking for things to do in Central Texas…awesome! There is no shortage of activities, whether you’re a thrill seeker, outdoor enthusiast, or want to sip on some wine and eat delicious cheese all weekend.

38 Attractions for Everyone to Do in Central Texas

Without further ado, we’ll start the list of the best things to do in Central Texas with our favorite museum. And don’t worry, if you’re more of the thrillseeker type, you can keep scrolling :)

p.s. – you can spend the night at Paniolo Ranch and get room service, onsite spa services, lounge by the pool or at the lake, and take advantage of enjoying nature on our 100 acres. If that sounds like your type of weekend, you can learn more on our lodging or spa page.

1. Explore the National Museum of the Pacific War.

The National Museum of the Pacific War is a must-visit museum in Fredericksburg, Texas. Established in 1969, the museum features in-depth exhibits that bring to life the conflict in the Pacific Theater in painstaking detail. Spread across three buildings and six acres; the museum has thousands of artifacts and heavy machinery on display, including personal letters written by soldiers, photographs, and more.

Notable exhibits include the outdoor Pacific Combat Zone, which hosts battle reenactments, and the oral history exhibits where visitors can hear gut-wrenching stories. There are also interactive displays, a full theater, and a replica battlefield complete with troop carriers, tanks, and foxholes. The National Museum of the Pacific War is a powerful and educational experience that visitors will remember for years.

Hidden Falls Adventure Park.

2. Get Muddy at Hidden Falls Adventure Park.

Hidden Falls Adventure Park is a must-visit attraction for adventure seekers in Central Texas. Activities cater to all skill levels, including off-road trails for ATVs, dirt bikes, and 4×4 vehicles. Novice riders can enjoy the park’s beginner trails, while expert riders can take on the challenging off-road courses. The park also features hiking trails that lead to a beautiful 50-foot waterfall framed by a moss-covered cave. Hidden Falls Adventure Park has cabins, RVs, and rustic camping options for staying overnight. This park is the perfect place to satisfy your need for speed and explore the great outdoors.

Giraffe at Longneck Manor.

3. Sleep Next to a Giraffe at Longneck Manor.

At Longneck Manor, guests can experience a unique stay by spending the night next to a 16-foot giraffe in their private Giraffe Suite . The suite boasts a stunning view of the conservation park’s three majestic giraffes, and guests can even feed them carrots through an adjoining window. The suite features state-of-the-art facilities and is booked out until 2024 after going viral on TikTok. However, four more lodgings will be built on-site by next summer. Visitors can also sign up for twice-daily, 90-minute tours of the grounds to learn about the resident white African rhinos and giraffes and enjoy a little taste of Africa in the Hill Country . Overall, Longneck Manor is an unforgettable experience for those looking for a luxurious and unique stay.

Drink Some Local Brews in Central Texas

4. Drink Some Local Brews in Central Texas.

• Jester King in Austin is a must-visit.
• Acopon Brewing in Dripping Springs is also worth checking out for its British-style beers, including cask beers served from a traditional hand pump.
• Fredericksburg Brewing Company and Altstadt Brewery are two other great options in the Fredericksburg area, offering Hill Country and German-style craft beers, respectively.
• If you’re looking for a unique drinking experience, head to Desert Door to try their sotol, a wild west Texas plant-based spirit that smells like tequila but tastes like gin.
• For bourbon lovers, Garrison Brothers on Highway 290 is a must-visit. With award-winning spirits, it’s a great spot to sip and savor.

5. Get Spooked at The Gas Station. ????

The Gas Station in Bastrop, Texas , is not your ordinary pit stop. Once the real-life gas station featured in the 1974 horror classic, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, it transformed into a horror-themed barbecue resort that provides a unique experience for horror film fanatics. The eerie surroundings of The Gas Station are enough to make anyone’s hair stand on end.

Everything about this place screams horror, from the green van with a flat tire to the chainsaw atop the porch bench. Upon entering, one is transported into a horror movie mecca, with posters, dolls, masks, and costumes from throwback slashers adorning the walls. The four quaint cabins feature eerie red walls and a DVD player, where guests can watch horror movies to set the tone.

The bathhouse has a bloody bucket sitting underneath meat hooks on the wall, a disturbing photo op that fans of the film will recognize immediately. Overall, The Gas Station is a must-visit for horror film enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill of the iconic movie, with the added bonus of delicious, non-human barbecue.

enchanted rock texas

6. Climb Enchanted Rock.

Enchanted Rock is a massive pink granite batholith in the heart of Texas Hill Country. It stands 425 feet tall and spans over 640 acres, making it the nation’s second-largest granite dome. Visitors can hike to the top of the dome, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area also offers outdoor activities, including:

• rock climbing
• backpacking
• birdwatching

Families can join the Junior Ranger program, where kids discover ways to conserve the area and learn about unique nuances in this region. Enchanted Rock is a must-visit attraction in Central Texas for those seeking adventure, natural beauty, and a glimpse into the area’s fascinating history.

Walk Through the Flowers at Wildseed Farms

7. Walk Through the Flowers at Wildseed Farms.

Walking through the flowers at Wildseed Farms is an experience unlike any other. The blooming wildflowers’ vibrant colors are breathtaking, and the serene environment is perfect for a peaceful stroll. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing escape, this place will not disappoint. The best time to visit is when the flowers bloom in the spring and summer.

Get Blown Away at Wimberley Glassworks

8. Get Blown Away at Wimberley Glassworks.

Visitors to Wimberley Glassworks can expect a unique and immersive experience watching skilled artisans create beautiful glass pieces right before their eyes. Free glassblowing demonstrations are held every Thursday to Sunday, allowing viewers to feel the heat, hear the furnaces roaring, and see torches blazing. The gallery features a range of unique glass items, including vases and lawn ornaments.

In addition to the glassblowing demonstrations, visitors can explore the charming artists’ colony with quirky shops selling handmade crafts, paintings, and other artwork, as well as locally owned restaurants and bakeries.

9. Get a Staycation at Camp Lucy.

Camp Lucy in Dripping Springs is a luxurious staycation experience that feels like a trip to the French countryside. With gorgeous accommodations , including estate rooms with stone soaking tubs, treetop rooms, plushy cottages with shuffleboard tables, and safari-style tents with Casper king-size beds and clawfoot tubs, guests can indulge in comfort and style.

10. Stargaze at GLAT Austin.

GLAT Austin , located at Lake Bastrop North Shore Park, offers a unique glamping experience with excellent stargazing opportunities. With eight different glamping tent options, guests can choose from a modest tent with two single beds to a large tent that can sleep up to six people and includes a private restroom and shower.

In addition to the cozy accommodations, GLAT Austin also features fire pits and a large hot tub for guests to relax and enjoy the night sky. Surrounded by natural beauty and away from the city’s bright lights, GLAT Austin is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and serene stargazing experience.

11. Find Serenity at The Yurtopian.

The Yurtopian is a serene and secluded glamping destination in Central Texas, perfect for a peaceful and romantic getaway. The property features six remote hilltop yurts, each located 300 feet apart, ensuring privacy and noise control, along with three community river bluff yurts with direct access to the Blanco River. The yurts are climate-controlled and equipped with a pillowy king-size bed, leather couch, and desk with books and magazines to read on the rooftop hammock.

Guests can also enjoy a private plunge pool that can be heated into a hot tub, a gas fire pit, and an alfresco shower. The outdoor kitchen is perfect for cooking breakfast, and the natural beauty of the surrounding woods and river adds to the peaceful atmosphere.

12. Cool Off at Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well.

Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well are two of the most beloved natural swimming holes in Central Texas. Blue Hole is a spring-fed spot in Wimberley with a refreshing temperature of 75 degrees. The site offers rope swings that entice swimmers to backflip into the water, and it is surrounded by Bald Cypress trees that add to its natural beauty. Advanced paid reservations are required to visit Blue Hole, so plan accordingly.

Jacob’s Well, on the other hand, is an artesian spring located within an immersed cavern that goes 140 feet deep and maintains a temperature of 68 degrees. It is one of the best swimming holes in Texas and a top Wimberley attraction. The chilly water here is deceptively deep, bubbling up from a cave that stretches over 100 feet underground. From May through September, reservations are required for swimming.

Jacob’s Well is the state’s second-biggest entirely submerged cave and a fascinating place to visit. Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well are popular destinations for tourists and locals, offering a refreshing and unique swimming experience in natural waters.

13. Go Birding at Horseshoe Bay Nature Park.

Horseshoe Bay Nature Park , located on a rolling upland prairie in Central Texas, offers a serene and picturesque setting for bird-watching enthusiasts. With an 11-acre area, the park is home to unique bird species such as black-bellied whistling ducks, painted buntings, scissor-tailed flycatchers, bell’s vireos, and yellow-billed cuckoos. Visitors can grab their binoculars and birding guide to explore the scenic space while keeping an eye out for these feathered creatures. The park’s peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for bird-watching and nature enthusiasts. We highly recommend adding this activity to your itinerary when visiting Central Texas .

14. Snap Photos of a Waterfall at Hamilton Pool Reserve

Hamilton Pool Reserve is a breathtaking natural wonder outside Austin, Texas. The pool is a jade-green water hole surrounded by limestone rocks and a seasonal 50-ft waterfall. Visitors can swim, hike, and enjoy a picnic in the beautiful outdoors. The pool is part of a protected natural preservation area, allowing vegetation and trees to thrive. Reservations are required before visiting, and visitors should bring close-toed shoes for the rugged hike from the parking lot. Taking the plunge into the pristine blue-green waters of Hamilton Pool is an unforgettable experience and a must-see for anyone visiting Texas.

fly fishing in texas

15. Take a guided fly fishing tour of the region’s rivers with ReelFly.

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the beauty of the rivers in Central Texas, consider taking a guided fly fishing tour with ReelFly . Their expert guides provide all the necessary equipment, including rods, reels, and flies, so you can focus on catching some of the many different types of fish in the area, such as rainbow and brown trout. With years of experience and knowledge of the local waters, the guides will help you navigate the river and improve your fishing skills. You’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery as you cast your line and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.

16. Explore the stunning natural formations at Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown.

Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown, Texas, is a geological wonder worth visiting. Discovered in 1963 during the construction of Interstate 35, the caverns are estimated to be around 10,000 to 14,000 years old. Visitors can expect to see incredible formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique geological formations.

17. Go on a hot air balloon ride with Austin Aeronauts and see the Hill Country from above.

Take to the skies with Austin Aeronauts on a hot air balloon ride over the stunning Texas Hill Country. Enjoy the breathtaking views of rolling hills, winding rivers, and rustic towns while gently drifting through the sky. Experience the sensation of weightlessness as you soar above the treetops and take in the panoramic vistas from a unique perspective. The best hot air balloon ride times are during the cooler months, such as fall and winter when the weather is calm and clear. However, any time of year can provide a memorable experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the unforgettable moments and views.

18. Visit the unique art installations at the Museum of the Weird in Austin.

The Museum of the Weird in Austin is a rare find, boasting a plethora of oddities and unique art installations. Visitors can view a fee jee mermaid, a pickled hand of a hanged man, shrunken heads, ancient mummies, and even a cyclops-like pig. The museum also features a theater with a rotating cast of strange performers, including one who holds a live wire and performs a traditional sideshow. The museum’s displays will amaze and fascinate visitors who love the bizarre and unusual.

19. Take a helicopter tour with Lone Star Heli and see the region’s natural beauty from a new perspective.

Lone Star Heli offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Central Texas with their helicopter tours. Take to the skies and soar over the stunning landscapes of the Texas Hill Country , with views of crystal clear streams, towering oak and cedar trees, and grand hillside vistas.

The tour also offers a chance to see fascinating rock formations and gardens of indigenous cacti. We highly recommend booking a tour with Lone Star Heli for an unforgettable experience of Central Texas’s natural beauty.

20. Go on a guided hike through the Hill Country with Hill Country Outdoors.

Hill Country Outdoors offers guided hikes through the Texas Hill Country, allowing one to explore the region’s natural beauty while learning about the local flora and fauna. Hikers can choose from trails ranging from easy to challenging, with options for all skill levels.

The knowledgeable guides provide information about the history and ecology of the area, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. Participants should wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen. By going on a guided hike with Hill Country Outdoors, hikers can enjoy the beauty of the Hill Country and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s unique landscape and wildlife.

21. Sample the award-winning wines at Grape Creek Vineyards in Fredericksburg.

Grape Creek Vineyards in Fredericksburg, Texas, is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. The vineyard offers award-winning wines, a beautiful setting, and a welcoming atmosphere. The Mediterranean-style tasting room overlooks the vineyard, providing a stunning backdrop for tasting sessions. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard and winery and a tasting of their signature wines. The vineyard also hosts live music events and offers a selection of food and snacks to complement its wines.

22. Experience the thrill of ziplining through the trees with Wimberley Zipline Adventures.

If you’re looking for an exhilarating adventure in the heart of Central Texas, look no further than Wimberley Zipline Adventures . Nestled among the cypress treetops, this attraction offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape that will leave you in awe. But don’t worry; safety is their top priority, and they provide top-of-the-line equipment and trained guides to ensure your experience is thrilling and safe.

With both a Canopy Tour and a Canopy Challenge, there’s something for all skill levels. And for those looking for a truly unique experience, spend the night in a tree house after zipping through the trees. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure. Add Wimberley Zipline Adventures to your must-visit list today!

23. Take a scenic drive along the winding roads of the Twisted Sisters in the Hill Country.

The Twisted Sisters is a 100-mile loop of winding roads that offer breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country. The drive takes visitors through the lush greenery of limestone outcrops, ancient live oaks, and white-flowering yucca plants. The hills take on shapes like traffic cones and gumdrops, and the roads twist so much that you may have to slow down to a crawl in some places.

The breathtaking Farm Road 337 winds from Medina through Vanderpool to Leakey. The road skirts rock ledges where oaks and cacti barely cling to solid ground; you must see it for yourself! Visitors can stop in the stunning vistas, explore the charming small towns, and sip along the Hill Country Wine Trail.

24. Visit the charming small town of Gruene and attend a live music show at Gruene Hall.

Gruene , Texas, is a small town full of history and charm. Established in 1850, the town was once a thriving cotton-producing community that saw a decline during the Great Depression. However, developers purchased and restored many of the buildings in the town, turning it into a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the Gruene Historic District, which features preserved buildings from the 1800s that now house boutiques, restaurants, and more. The best time to visit is during sunny weekends when tourists can explore the town and attend a live music show at Gruene Hall. As the oldest continuously operating dance hall in the great state of Texas, Gruene Hall has hosted some of the biggest music names since 1975, including George Strait, Willie Nelson, and Garth Brooks.

25. Explore the historic sites and artifacts at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin.

The Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum in Austin, Texas, is a must-see attraction for history buffs. Located on the University of Texas campus at Austin, the library and museum showcase the life and presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President of the United States.

Visitors can explore thousands of books, historical relics, and interactive exhibits highlighting the tumultuous time when Johnson was president in American history. The museum features a replica of the Oval Office, an 11-minute film on President Johnson, and an audio tour suitable for children and adults. Exhibits cover major events of the 1960s, including the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement. The library also includes a research center for scholars and researchers interested in studying the Johnson presidency and its impact on American history.

26. Horseback through the Hill Country with Texas Trail Rides.

If you’re looking for a more traditional way to explore the Texas Hill Country, a horseback ride with Texas Trail Rides is the perfect adventure. You’ll be able to appreciate the stunning scenery of the Hill Country, with towering oak and cedar trees, crystal clear streams, and rolling hillsides that meet the majestic hills.

The horses provided by Texas Trail Rides are well-trained and friendly, making the ride a comfortable and enjoyable experience for riders of all levels. Along the way, you may discover notable landmarks such as the Cowboy Capital of Texas, Bandera, or the Tourist Capital of Texas, San Antonio . With Texas Trail Rides, you’ll have an unforgettable experience exploring the beauty of the Hill Country on horseback.

27. Take a sunset kayaking tour of Lady Bird Lake in Austin with Live Love Paddle.

Live Love Paddle offers a one-of-a-kind experience kayaking on Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas. The sunset tour is a perfect way to end your day, paddling along the downtown skyline as the sun sets over the water and the bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. You’ll have the chance to see local wildlife up close and personal and capture stunning photos of the Austin skyline. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours and costs $55 per person. With friendly and knowledgeable guides, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Austin.

28. Attend a cooking class at Fischer & Wieser Culinary Adventure Cooking School in Fredericksburg.

At Fischer & Wieser Culinary Adventure Cooking School , one can embark on a flavorful journey of learning to cook, taste, share, and laugh. From a four-course meal to a sweet pastry class, classes include notes on local history and culture, chefs’ and grandmother’s techniques, tips on Fredericksburg wineries and restaurants, and wisdom about food, wine, and life. What’s more, wines from the Texas Hill Country are served with every class. For a more intimate experience, groups of two to 10 can book a private lesson, complete with instruction, a full meal, wine, and recipes. Multiple menu options are available.

29. Take a guided ATV tour with Hill Country Adventure Rentals through the rugged Hill Country terrain.

Experience the thrill of exploring the rugged terrain of the Texas Hill Country on a guided ATV tour with Hill Country Adventure Rentals . With multiple areas suitable for novice riders and expert-level off-road courses, you can fulfill your need for speed on a dirt bike, motorcycle, ATV, UTV, or full-size 4×4. As you navigate through the crystal clear streams, towering oak and cedar trees, and grand hillside vistas, be sure to capture the breathtaking views with your camera. After an exhilarating day in the dirt, relax in one of Marble Falls’ cabins, RVs, or rustic campsites. Don’t forget to make your reservations in advance!

30. Visit the stunning Hamilton Pool Preserve and swim in the natural pool.

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a magnificent natural wonder in Central Texas that offers visitors a glimpse of paradise. This awe-inspiring natural swimming pool is landscaped by a gorgeous grotto hidden under a 50-foot waterfall in a canyon. It is a natural and relaxing oasis that you can dip into as a break from the local heat. The jade-green water and limestone rocks surrounding the entire pool create a stunning visual spectacle that is unique and breathtaking.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, picnicking, and even guided hikes to learn about the area’s history. Visitors must make reservations in advance to access the preserve, as they are limited to protecting the ecosystem. Close-toed shoes are recommended for the rugged quarter-mile hike from the parking lot and for walking around the swimming area. Don’t miss this picturesque and unforgettable experience!

31. Attend a live performance at the historic Palace Theatre in Seguin.

The Palace Theatre in Seguin, Texas , has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1925. Originally built as a vaudeville house, the theater has seen many changes, including a stint as a movie theater and a period of disrepair. However, after extensive renovations, the Palace Theatre has returned to its former glory as a live performance venue. Attending a show at the Palace Theatre is a truly unique experience, as the historic Mediterranean-style architecture and ornate detailing create a charming and intimate atmosphere. Whether you’re watching a local play or a touring Broadway production, the Palace Theatre is sure to impress.

32. Take a guided cave tour at Cascade Caverns in Boerne TX

Get ready for an adventure through time and nature at Cascade Caverns! Located just 3 miles south of Boerne , Texas, this limestone solutional cave is a historical, geological, and biological gem. With its commercial operation as a show cave since 1932, visitors can explore its stunning formations and learn about its rich history. From informal tours dating back to 1875, when Dr. Benjamin Hester owned the property to the native Lipan Apache people who inhabited the area before 1800, the cave is brimming with fascinating stories. Come discover this natural wonder for yourself!

33. Explore the world-class contemporary art collection at the Blanton Museum of Art in Austin.

The Blanton Museum of Art is one of Austin, Texas’s most prestigious art museums. Established in 1963, the museum houses an extensive collection of contemporary art, with works by renowned artists such as Robert Rauschenberg and Thomas Hart Benton.

The museum’s permanent collection includes over 18,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Greek pottery to contemporary prints and paintings. Visitors can also explore the museum’s rotating exhibitions, which showcase works by emerging and established artists worldwide. Notable exhibitions in the past have included “The Open Road: Photography and the American Road Trip” and “Warhol By the Book.” The Blanton Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for any art lover in Austin.

34. Experience the thrill of wakeboarding at Quest ATX in Austin.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity in Central Texas, look no further than wakeboarding at Quest ATX in Austin. This park offers a unique experience where riders are pulled by a cable system instead of a boat, allowing longer rides and more opportunities to perfect your moves. With obstacles and ramps to choose from, wakeboarders of all skill levels can challenge themselves and have a blast.

35. Take a scenic drive through the winding roads of the Devil’s Backbone in the Hill Country.

The Devil’s Backbone is a breathtaking scenic drive that winds through the Hill Country of Central Texas. The 30-mile stretch between Kerrville and Medina features twisting roads that lead visitors through a landscape of ancient live oaks, limestone outcrops, and white-flowering yucca plants.

36. Go on a guided rock climbing excursion with Rock About.

Rock About offers an exhilarating guided rock climbing experience perfect for adventure seekers. With knowledgeable guides and top-of-the-line equipment, climbers of all levels can enjoy the thrill of scaling the gym’s challenging walls. The climb is an adrenaline-fueled adventure with routes and obstacles to conquer.

Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a first-timer, the team at Rock About will provide expert guidance and support throughout the journey. We highly recommend this experience for anyone looking to push their limits and take on a new challenge in a safe and controlled environment.

37. Visit the historic German town of Fredericksburg and explore its unique shops and restaurants.

Fredericksburg , a charming town in Central Texas, is a must-visit destination for those interested in history, great food, and unique shops. Founded by keen German immigrants in the nineteenth century, the town still honors its heritage through its many German restaurants and festivals, such as Oktoberfest. The Vereins Kirche in the town square is also a notable landmark.

Fredericksburg is also known for its bed-and-breakfast accommodations and its many wedding venues , wineries, and distilleries. Visitors can also explore the National Museum of the Pacific War, which features exhibits about World War II in the Asia-Pacific War Theater. For a break from the crowds, nearby Comfort offers stone architecture, quirky shops, and restaurants like the Comfort Meet Market.

historic Tejas Rodeo Company in Bulverde

38. Attend a live rodeo show at the historic Tejas Rodeo Company in Bulverde.

Tejas Rodeo Company in Bulverde is a historic rodeo that has been around since 1927, making it one of the oldest rodeos in Texas. Visitors can expect to see thrilling rodeo events such as bull riding, barrel racing, and team roping, live music performances and delicious food options. The rodeo also hosts special events throughout the year, such as the Annual Cowboy Christmas Ball and the Annual Pro Rodeo Finals. Guests can enjoy the rodeo from the covered grandstands or opt for a VIP experience with access to a private bar and lounge area.

Bonus Ideas for Your Hill Country Getaway by Sara at Travel A-Broads

Stay in a Getaway cabin in Wimberley

Nestled deep in the heart of Texas, Wimberley is a small town in Hays County that’s known for its “true Texas culture” and slower pace of life – and, it’s the perfect place for  a quick getaway to Texas Hill Country .

Wimberley offers lots of hiking and outdoor activities, as well as several wineries, and booking a Getaway cabin is the perfect way to explore this area, while getting the unique experience of disconnecting, immersing yourself in nature, and relaxing among comforts and amenities similar to that of a hotel or Airbnb.

Their cozy cabins are dog-friendly and equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, AC/heat, a bed(s), a bathroom, shampoo and conditioner, pots and pans, a mini fridge, stove, a fire pit, picnic table, chairs and more.

Booking a cabin is easy and can be done online at  Getaway’s website ; choose an outpost, pick a cabin size and select dates, and Getaway will handle the rest!

Celebrate a birthday with a private tour of some of Fredericksburg’s most charming wineries

A private tour of Texas Wine Country is a great way to  celebrate your birthday in Fredericksburg .

Reserve Tours provides vans that have been renovated to look like limos on the inside, picks visitors up right in front of their Airbnb or hotel and schedules private visits to boutique wineries based on their client’s preferences.

Enjoy a delicious wine tasting while sitting in a private nook at Signor Vineyards, do some shopping at the adorable Joanna’s Market, which is also located on site, take a private tour of the facilities and munch on a plate of delicious meats and cheeses at Ron Yates Wines, and enjoy some live music and the fun atmosphere at Ab Astris Winery.

If this itinerary doesn’t sound ideal for you, work with  Reserve Tours  to make your own! The opportunities are truly endless.

What are some of the natural attractions in Central Texas and San Antonio?

Central Texas is home to natural attractions that presents visitors the chance to explore and appreciate the region’s unique landscape. Here are some of the most notable natural attractions in Central Texas:

• Natural Bridge Caverns: Located in New Braunfels, these underground caverns are popular tourist destinations due to their stunning natural formations and guided tours.
• Palo Duro Canyon: Located in Canyon, this state park features outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and horseback riding.
• Hamilton Pool Preserve: This natural spring in Dripping Springs is a popular spot for swimming and cooling off in the summer months.
• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: This park in Fredericksburg features a giant pink granite natural dome formation, as well as opportunities for camping, hiking, and stargazing.

What are the best hikes in Central Texas and near Dripping Springs?

Central Texas is home to numerous beautiful hiking trails. Here are the top 5 best hikes in the region:

• Enchanted Rock Summit Trail: This 1.5-mile trail is a challenging hike leading to the summit of the pink granite Enchanted Rock, with breathtaking views of the Hill Country. It is a popular trail in Fredericksburg.
• Hamilton Pool Preserve Trail: This 0.6-mile trail leads to a beautiful natural pool formed by a waterfall. The trail is relatively easy, passing through a lush green environment with a small grotto and a 50-foot waterfall.
• Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail: This 10-mile trail is an easy hike around Lady Bird Lake in Austin. It features stunning city skyline views and is a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail: This 7.9-mile trail is a moderate hike that passes through a scenic canyon, showcasing opportunities for swimming in natural pools and waterfalls.
• Pedernales Falls Trail: This 7.5-mile trail is a challenging hike that leads to Pedernales Falls, a beautiful natural waterfall. The trail boasts stunning views of the Hill Country and the river and features terrain including rocky paths and river crossings.

Are there any historical landmarks or monuments in Central Texas?

Yes, there are several historic landmarks and monuments in Central Texas. Here are five notable ones:

• Texas State Capitol: Completed in 1888, this iconic landmark in Austin is the largest state capitol building in the US and a National Historic Landmark. It has free guided tours and is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and monuments, including a Vietnam War monument and a monument to the Battle of the Alamo.
• The Alamo: Located in San Antonio , this historic mission was the site of a pivotal battle in the Texas Revolution. Today, it serves as a museum and a symbol of Texas’s fight for independence.
• San Fernando Cathedral: Founded in 1731, this is the oldest church in Texas and is located on the edge of Main Plaza in San Antonio. It is a popular tourist attraction known for its stunning architecture.
• Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library: Located in Austin, this library and museum is dedicated to the life and presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President of the United States. It contains a wealth of information and artifacts about his presidency, including a replica of the Oval Office. It is also a National Historic Landmark.

Have a wonderful trip!

Central Texas and the Hill Country are breathtaking in their own regard; we even have visitors from Colorado and California that come to Paniolo Ranch to experience our relaxing lodging and onsite spa services, even though they’ve got plenty of mountains and beauty. We hope you have the most relaxing Hill Country trip, and enjoy your stay.

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33 Charming Small towns in Texas to Visit Now

Small towns in Texas make for great summer vacations, winter holiday destinations, weekend getaways, and romantic escapes in the Lone Star State.

An epic road trip through these small Texas towns is a great way to see the state.

Fishing towns along the Gulf Coast attract families looking for beaches and surf while the charming towns and wineries of Texas Hill Country make great honeymoon destinations for couples. 

The Old Wild West towns appeal to those seeking Texas history, excitement, and adventure.

Also Read: 17 Best Texas honeymoon destinations

In some of them you can step back in the days of cowboys and drink moonshine at a saloon.

You can see a gunfight or cattle ranching in action. 

Also Read: 10 Best German Towns in Texas

Texas also has many ghost towns: places that were once thriving but were abandoned due to the Great Depression, natural disasters, end of the railroad era, and changing routes.

Their shuttered shops and derelict homes are perfect for exploring. 

Here is our list of best small towns in Texas that you can visit now!

Best Small Towns to Visit in Texas

From unique cultures to delicious local cuisine, you will find a lot of things to do in Texas small towns.

Most of the best towns in Texas have their own free local history museums, county parks, excellent antiquing, and plenty of outdoor attractions.

A recent awareness of public art campaigns is bringing art walks, arts & crafts festivals, beautiful public art pieces, murals, sculptures, and intriguing architecture to many of these Texas small towns. 

For those who love slow travel and local travel, these Texas small towns provide the best experience and bang for your buck.

So fasten the seatbelts and let’s take the backroads to our favorite small towns in Texas! 

Also Read: Best Texas Winter Vacations

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is a picturesque Hill Country town in central Texas, known for its German heritage and charming Main Street.

The city is also home to a number of museums, including the National Museum of the Pacific War.

There are numerous German restaurants and shops in the city, as well as a Bavarian-style brewery.

In addition to its German heritage, Fredericksburg is also known for its wine industry.

It is located in the Texas wine country and there are over 40 wineries located in the Fredericksburg area .

Want to feel like you’re walking through a ghost town in the old west?

Well, strap on your boots, cowboy, ‘cause Luckenbach is your kind of rodeo.

This small town is famous for country music and over hundreds of people gather to listen to concerts any given weekend. 

The town has a very small population of just 3 people and is only about an hour north of San Antonio which makes it a great place to stop for a day trip.

The general store is a cluster and culmination of all things Texas with cowboy hats, boots, leather, and hides dangling in all corners of the old wood building. 

Besides the general store, Luckenbach also has a post office and a dance hall.

There are also a few vineyards nearby offering wine tours.

South Padre Island

Want to find an awesome Texas beach town for your trip?

Look no further than South Padre Island .

Situated just off the tip of Texas’ southeastern coast, South Padre is about 3 hours from Corpus Christi and 4 and a half from San Antonio. It is very close to the Mexican border. 

The island has a few beaches for you to choose from, the best of which is probably Isla Blanca Park located on the southern part of the Island.

Here you can do some snorkeling, relax on the beach, or visit ​El Christo de Pescadores, a giant metal statue that speaks to the rich history of fishing in the area. 

The town also has great hikes and nature trails, a theme park, and even aquarium activities with sea turtles and dolphins.

Port Aransas

​A great seaside experience that exemplifies the Texas coastline!

Take a trip to Port Aransas and you will find 18 miles of sandy Texas beach on the Gulf of Mexico .

The town is located on Mustang Island, a little under three hours from San Antonio, and only 45 minutes from Corpus Christi. 

For activities, you can take a trip over to Port Aransas beach for swimming or surfing.

Be sure to visit the Leonabelle Turn Bull center for a birding tour along a boardwalk in the Texas wetlands or do some camping in Mustang Island State Park. 

For good seafood in the area try Fin’s Grill and Icehouse to sample the catch of the day.

One of our favorite charming small towns in Texas!

It is located within the city limits of New Braunfels, Texas about an hour south of Austin. 

Founded in 1845 by German immigrants, Gruene was once a thriving cotton-producing community.

It flourished with a cotton gin, Gruene general store, and a gristmill – all of which are on the National Register of Historic Places today!

Gruene (pronounced like “Green”) has preserved its rich history and unique culture in the Gruene Historic District.

Visitors can step back in time as they stroll down Main Street, lined with Victorian-style buildings housing antique shops, boutiques, and ice cream parlors.

Gruene is also home to the oldest dance hall in Texas, where visitors can enjoy live country music by popular artists.

The Gristmill Restaurant, located in the town’s original cotton gin, is another must visit attraction.

Spend some time on the Guadalupe River or Comal River for some fun rafting, fishing, or river tubing while you are visiting Gruene.

Jefferson, Texas is a small town with a lot of character.

Founded in 1836, it was one of the earliest towns in Texas and served as the capital of the Republic of Texas for a brief period of time.

Today, Jefferson is known for its historic downtown, which is full of quaint shops and restaurants, oodles of small town charm, as well as excellently preserved Victorian architecture.

Visitors can explore the historic buildings – many of which are on the National Register of Historic places, shop for antiques, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.

This old brewery town is a great place to visit if you’re a fan of local beers and wines.

Shiner, also the name of a popular beer produced in the area, is about an hour and a half from both Austin and San Antonio. 

One of the best places to stay in the town is a bed and breakfast called Spoetzl Haus.

This lovely little residence has dark hardwood floors and a complimentary breakfast with every stay.

It’s also decorated with little pieces of Shiner’s history, so you can ask your host for interesting tidbits about the town. 

Other popular locations in Shiner are Spoetzl Brewery, ​Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, and Edward Wolter’s Memorial Museum and Licorice and Lemon Drop’s old fashioned candy shop. ​

The town is full of character and is definitely fun for a couple of day’s trip.

Want to see and experience life on the Mexico/Texas border?

Laredo is a beautiful Spanish-villa style town that was built 258 years ago. 

The small texas town is on the Mile 1 marker of Interstate Highway 35 and about 2 and a half hours from Corpus Christi.

Beyond exploring the unique location and eating some awesome tex-mex, there are several other activities available in Laredo. 

Visit the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum to see an authentic Laredo home for the 1830s.

Go to the reservoir in Lake Casa Blanca State Park, hike the trail along Zacate Creek (a famous battle site during the Civil War), or even learn something about space in the Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium. 

With countless other activities, there is a ton to do in this border town. 

Boerne, Texas is a nature lover’s paradise. 

The town’s Main Street shopping district is called the Hill Country Mile.

It is full of quaint boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and delicious restaurants.

The Guadalupe River runs through the center of Boerne and is perfect for swimming, fishing, canoeing, and tubing. 

There are also several riverfront parks where you can picnic or take a leisurely stroll.

The Cave without a Name is one of Boerne’s most popular attractions. 

The cave is a stunning example of Mother Nature’s handiwork and offers tours for all ages. 

The cave is approximately 3 miles long and features beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. 

Be sure to bring your camera so you can capture all the beauty that this attraction has to offer.

A town in northeastern Texas with a ton of small-town flavor.

West has some of the prettiest prairies, mountains, and rock formations in the whole state right on its doorstep. 

The town is a little under 2 hours north of Austin and just north of Waco .

Book a room at the Holiday Inn or the Bed and Breakfast on Whitecreek rock, and stay for a couple of days to enjoy great open Texas outdoors. 

One famous hiking trail runs through this town: the Kolache trail.

Although, it’s not really a trail at all but a food tour sampling the famous Czech pastry the Kolache.

Texas has a rich Czech immigrant history and it is exemplified in their baking of this delicious dessert.

Dripping Springs

Situated just outside of Austin, Dripping Springs is a small town with a lot to offer. 

From hiking and biking trails to wineries and breweries, there’s something for everyone in Dripping Springs. 

Popular attractions include the Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve, Reimers Ranch, Dreamland, and the charming downtown. 

There are also plenty of opportunities to shop for handcrafted goods, listen to live music, and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Georgetown , Texas is a charming town located just north of Austin.

This small town in Texas is known for its beautiful Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and a beautiful town square.

Georgetown is home to a variety of different attractions, including the Georgetown Palace Theatre and the Williamson Museum.

There are also plenty of places to eat and drink in Georgetown, from local cafes to upscale restaurants.

Marfa is an artistic, quaint town located in the high desert of far West Texas.

In recent years, it has become a popular destination for artists, musicians, and other creative types.

The city is home to a number of art galleries, studios, and performance spaces.

It is also home to the Marfa Lights, mysterious orbs of light that have been spotted in the night sky for centuries.

Marfa makes a perfect stop on the Big Bend National Park road trip.

Whether you’re drawn to Marfa for its creative vibes or its inexplicable phenomena, there’s no denying that it’s a truly unique place.

Known as the Irish capital of Texas, this central Texas small town has a robust and diverse population with a number of great local artisans and history to explore.

It is 2 hours southwest of Dallas and two hours northwest of Austin. 

While you’re there make sure to stop at the Dublin Bottling Works and Old Doc Soda shop, the birthplace of the famous brand of American soda Dr. Pepper.

You can wander through the cute and tiny shops of downtown or even take a tour of a local farm! 

Head over to De Leon Inn if you’re looking for a cheap place to stay and grab a bite at Woody’s Place to sample some awesome American Barbecue. 

​Just outside of the Texan city of Amarillo is a comfy little North Texas town with a special charm and frontier feel. 

Canyon is actually closer to major cities outside of Texas than inside.

It is a little over 4 hours from Albuquerque and Oklahoma City.

The tiny town is actually located inside of the Palo Duro Canyon , which is nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Texas because it is the second-largest Canyon in the U.S. 

Nearby, you can go camping or enjoy the hiking trails in Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Or, you can go downtown to do some shopping, take a gander and a few historic buildings, and see the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum.

Welcome to the Cowboy Capital of the World.

Historically, the town was the site of several bloody battles between the Apache and the Comanche Indian tribes and gained relevance as a cypress logging community in the mid-1800s. 

Located only one hour from San Antonio, Bandera is close to two state natural areas and has great trails for hiking, bicycling, or even horseback riding. 

When you come in from a rough day on the saddle take a trip over to the local museum, check the event calendar for some live music, or lay your head down to rest at the River Oak Inn. 

On the western edge of Texas, this small town’s isolation will give you a brightly lit image of the night’s sky.

The nearest big city is El Paso and that is more than 3 hours away.

Alpine is also very close to the Mexican border and is popular for its proximity to Big Bend National Park.

This desert town is a great place to visit if you like peace and quiet and spending time outside.

Take a walk along Hancock Hill Trails where you can see “the desk” a metal desk dragged out into the wilderness by college students so they could have a scenic place to study. 

North of Alpine is the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center, also a great place to go for a stroll and learn about the local desert critters.

You can also take a historic walking tour of the town to help you better understand its history.

Come here to see the birthplace of the Texas Revolution.

The town’s motto, “Come and take it,” speaks to the defiant history where Texas’ fight for independence from Mexico and their annexation by the U.S. began. 

It is conveniently located a little over an hour from Austin and about 2 and a half from Houston.

There are multiple museums in the town that speak to both Texas and frontier history including Gonzales Memorial Museum, Living History Farm, Pioneer Village, and Gonzales County Jail Museum. 

The town is also close to Palmetto State Park where you can enjoy some outdoor activities and is home to many restaurants like the Gonzales Food Market, Baker Boys BBQ, and Cow Palace. 

Port Isabel

Love coastal towns? Port Isabel is a small town located on the Gulf of Mexico in southeastern Texas.

The town is home to a number of historic sites, including the Historic Port Isabel lighthouse and the Port Isabel Museum.

The town is also a popular destination for fishing and birdwatching.

Visitors to Port Isabel can enjoy a number of activities, including swimming, kayaking, and windsurfing.

The town is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes, as well as shops selling souvenirs and local arts and crafts.

Fort Stockton

Talk about remote, this West Texas town is over three hours from the nearest major city of El Paso .

This town used to be a popular stop for cowboys and other old west folks and today serves as a pleasant reminder to a time once forgotten. 

Take a walk through Fort Stockton’s historic district to see Pecos County Courthouse, the “Old Jail” from 1884, and the “Oldest House” believed to be built in 1855.

The town is also home to an Authentic old west saloon: Grey Mule Saloon.

This is a great place to unbuckle your spurs and have a whiskey or root beer. 

You’ll probably be tired from all the driving so lay your head down to rest at the La Quinta Inn, it is very central within the town. 

Want to go off the beaten track?

Terlingua, Texas is a unique ghost town located in the Chihuahuan Desert.

Founded in the 1880s as a mining town, Terlingua later became known for its position on the Rio Grande and its proximity to Big Bend National Park.

Terlingua Ghost Town was once home to more than 2,000 people.

However, the miners left in the early 20th century, and the town was largely abandoned.

Visitors can explore the abandoned mines, visit the old cemetery, or take a hike through the surrounding desert.

This is actually one of the bigger towns on our list, with a population of 12,000.

However, that does not subtract from its warm and quaint atmosphere. 

At just 30 minutes outside of Austin, it is a must-visit for anyone who is curious about the smaller towns within the state… and has a taste for BBQ.

Lockhart has been dubbed the “BBQ Capital of Texas,” and rightfully so. 

Their potent trio of BBQ restaurants (Black’s, Smitty’s, and Kreuz) have been highly awarded and BBQ lovers make the pilgrimage to Lockhart annually to have another taste of their delicious meats. 

Beyond the food, the town also has a lot of beautiful, colonial-style buildings like their courthouse and county jail museum in the town square.

Want to see a town with an extremely small population?

Take a trip over to Uncertain in East Texas.

In the 2010 census, it was recorded to have a population of just 94, down from 150 in 2000. In 2018 it was believed to have only 59 people. 

While it may not be the best town for clubbing, there is still plenty of fun to be had in Uncertain.

It is located in the northeastern corner of the state, almost three hours from Dallas. 

The town is located right on the banks of Caddo Lake.

The gnarled and enormous cypresses of the lake/swamp form beautiful scenery for walks around the town and the surrounding area.

It also has a number of water activities like boat tours and lakeside hiking/walking trails for you to choose from. 

If you want to really spice up your accommodation, try renting a cabin with Moonglow Lodges, they will set you up in a fully wooden hut situated on stilts in the lake.

Uncertain makes the perfect base to explore Caddo Lake State Park .

Granbury was voted the “Best Historic Small Town in America,” – primarily because of its Historic Downtown Square!

The buildings that line the square date back to the late 19th century, and the original brick paving stones are still in place.

The courthouse, which anchors the historic town square, was built in 1893 and is still in use today.

The town has a rich culture and deep southern hospitality that will make your heart warm.

Go to the Acton Nature center for a look at some wildlife and flora, then head over to the Granbury historic Railroad Depot to learn about the iron horses of the old west. 

Spend some time on the banks of Lake Granbury.

It is about an hour and 15 minutes from Dallas and only 48 minutes from Fort Worth. 

Nacogdoches

Founded in 1716, Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas and has a rich history.

The streets are lined with beautiful old buildings, and the residents are friendly and welcoming.

There is a lot to do in Nacogdoches, from shopping and dining to visiting museums and exploring the great outdoors.

Downtown Nacogdoches is full of unique shops and restaurants, and the city hosts several festivals throughout the year.

It is undoubtedly one of the most charming small towns in Texas!

Marble Falls

Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Marble Falls is a charming small town with a big personality.

From its scenic location on the shores of Lake Marble Falls to its rich history and vibrant arts community, there is much to love about this special place.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming, or explore the many shops and galleries downtown.

And no trip to Marble Falls would be complete without sampling the famous pies at Bluebonnet Cafe!

Hidden Falls Adventure Park is perfect for biking and ATV enthusiasts.

Schulenberg

Take a peek at some of the German cultures hiding in Southeastern Texas.

Schulenberg is also very easy to reach as it is in between and almost equidistant from Houston, San Antonio, and Austin, no more than an hour and thirty minutes from each. 

You won’t want to miss the painted churches, Model Airplane Museum, and homemade German sausage and schnitzel.

Saint Mary’s Catholic Church is known as the Queen of Painted Churches, but St. John the Baptist Church and Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church are close seconds. 

The Stanzel Model Aircraft Museum is owned by the Stanzel Family; model aircraft royalty who was inducted into the Model Aircraft hall of fame.

Finally, for some great German cuisine try to visit the City Meat Market or Mama’s at Sengelmann Hall for some of the best Schnitzel and Sausage dollars can buy. 

Come here to see some gorgeous open vistas in the Davis Mountains.

People have compared the scenery here to New Mexico, Chihuahua, and even Australia due to the intricate rock formations and wide-open spaces. 

Like most of West Texas, the biggest city nearby is El Paso at about three hours away.

While you’re here trying to do some bird watching, West Texas has 17 of the 18 species of hummingbird native to the state. 

You can also do a trip hiking or camping in the Davis Mountains, or cycle through them on a ride through the “Scenic Loop.”

The town also has glider flying, the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Gardens, and Fort Davis National Historic Site. 

Johnson City

Johnson City is a city in the Hill Country region of Texas about an hour away from Austin.

It is the county seat of Blanco County and is located on the Pedernales River.

This town is named after the 36th president of the United States: Lyndon B. Johnson.

Johnson City is known for its quaint downtown area, which features a variety of shops and restaurants.

The city is also home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Site.

Visitors to the park can tour the Johnson family home, as well as see exhibits on LBJ’s childhood, his time in Congress, and his presidency.

The LBJ Ranch is the most popular site in the park. It served as Texas white house for President Johnson.

This primarily historic town has several buildings from the late 1800s. It is a little under three hours from Fort Worth. 

Some of the historic sites you can visit in this town include an old railroad depot, an authentic book store in the town square,…..

…..a restored Aztec Theatre and Art Center in the Old Jail and….

….a massive colonial-style courthouse from 1883 that still has the original clock and bell!

It can get hot in Texas, so after you finish with a long day of walking go and eat ice cream at the Albany Ice Company, established in 1926.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay try stopping at the Albany Inn and RV campground, a perfect pit stop for a long road trip across Texas or the U.S. in general.

Located in one of the hilliest parts of Texas, Llano is awesome for travelers who like hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation.

This historic town was the last stop on the railroad for adventures traveling west into the wild frontier.

It is a little under two hours from San Antonio and about an hour and a half from Austin. 

If you’re planning on staying for a night or two, try and book a room at the Dabbs Railroad Hotel, a fully operational railside hotel in business since the times of the old west.

If you want to see an interesting rock formation check out the Llano uplift, where unusually shaped stones emerged when granite pushed itself to the Earth’s surface. 

Located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, Wimberley is a charming small town with a thriving arts community.

The town is home to several art galleries, as well as the Wimberley Players, a community theater group.

There are also several excellent restaurants, cafes, and shops.

In addition to its arts and culture scene, Wimberley is also popular with outdoor enthusiasts.

The town is surrounded by hiking and biking trails, and there are several lakes and rivers nearby for swimming, fishing, and canoeing.

Another one of its most beloved attractions is the Blue Hole.

This natural swimming hole is spring-fed and consistently stays at around 68 degrees, making it a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

Rockport is a small town located on the Gulf of Mexico coast.

The town is known for its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and variety of outdoor activities.

Rockport is also home to a number of art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking, and bird watching.

Goose Island State Park, located near Rockport, is another major attraction.

We hope you liked our post on best small towns to live and visit in Texas.

Did we miss out on any amazing small town in the Lone Star State? Let us know in the comments.

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1 thought on “33 Charming Small towns in Texas to Visit Now”

Lake Jackson, on the Gulf Coast, near Freeport, Texas, and 1- hour equidistant from Houston and Galveston, is a lovely small town. The Sea Center Texas, with its fish hatchery and ponds, plus a wild-life marsh outside is a wonderful attraction as are the huge aquariums and touch-tank inside the Center. The town was built by Alden Dow, founder of Dow Chemical Co. during WW II for the plant workers. There is a Historical Museum downtown with animatronics of Alden Dow, and Albert “Dutch” Beutel, one of the designers of the town, as well as the Windecker Eagle plane, a prototype using Stealth plane technology. Lake Jackson is next-door to Clute, Texas, another small town with the Center for the Arts & Sciences in the front of Brazosport Community College. The Center contains a Nature Museum, an Art Gallery, a Planetarium, a theatre-in-the-round, and a proscenium theatre, as well as being the home of the Brazosport Symphony. Lake Jackson, Clute, and 11 other small towns comprise an unincorporated community known as Brazosport, which is located within the Greater Houston Metroplex. Lake Jackson’s many parks and numerous trees have earned it many awards, and outside of the town is the relics of the sugar mill and plantation that gave the town its name, as well as the “Enchanted Oak” that symbolizes the town.

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Central Texas

Central Texas is characterized by prairies and lakes, two lane roads that twist and climb, green valleys and limestone cliffs. It's rich in German heritage, wineries, abundant wildflowers, crystal clear rivers lined with cypress and oak, music, cafes offering ample country cooking, and history.

It's also a great outdoor destination for hiking, tubing, swimming, and camping.

Map of Central Texas Points

Things to see & do in central texas.

Between Rosebud And Wilson

The road from Rosebud to Wilson has some of the prettiest ranches and farmland I’ve ever seen. This particular ranch was gorgeous. I saw no cattle there, and the grass has been allowed to grow...

Sunset in McKinney Falls

Sunset in McKinney Falls State Park, located at the southeastern edge of Austin around the confluence of Onion and Williamson Creeks and is administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department...

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in New Bielau

The Rev. G. Geiger organized Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church on June 2, 1886, with a membership of six families. The church serves two communities, Content and New Bielau, located within one mile...

Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Fredericksburg

Several black families were residing in Gillespie County by the 1870s. A schoolhouse was built in 1877 on property adjacent to this later church site. Blacks probably met in the school for worship...

The original name was Jones Post Office and named after the town's postmaster John Rice Jones Jr. who also happened to be the first postmaster general for the Republic of Texas.

Bend is an unincorporated community in Lampasas and San Saba Counties in Central Texas. It is located on Farm to Market Road 580 on the western leg of a horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River...

The Village of Salado is the best small town in Texas! With several bed and breakfasts and only a short drive up I35, between Waco and Austin.

Devils Waterhole in Inks Lake State Park

Devil’s Waterhole is a small extension of Inks Lake in Burnet, which is almost completely surrounded by rock. A canoe tour is conducted at Devil’s Waterhole, and although diving and...

Colorful Tour of the Hill Country Painted Churches

When immigrants from Moravia found passage into Galveston, the Ellis Island of the South, many headed for the Texas Hill Country bringing a piece of their homeland with them.

Hill Country Sunrise

A Spring sunrise in the Hill Country. Photo by Adam Barker

Wimberley is the geographic center and the aesthetic heart of the Wimberley Valley and is located at the confluence of Cypress Creek and the Blanco River.

Originally called Sylvan, the name was changed to honor Newton Carmean, the first postmaster in 1892.

Navasota was founded in 1831 as the stagecoach stop of Nolansville. Its name was changed in 1858 to Navasota, a name perhaps derived from the Native American word nabatoto (“muddy water”).

Hearn-Gidden House in Kosse

Kosse, located in Limestone County in Central Texas, has a colorful history dating to 1869. Born as a railroad village, Kosse has had booms and busts throughout its history. It is the birthplace of...

Lawrence Chapel, Williamson County

Lawrence Chapel is off Farm Road 112 eleven miles southeast of Taylor in southeastern Williamson County. It was named for Adam Lawrence, a pioneer rancher and farmer and a veteran of the Texas...

Fredericksburg

Located in Gillespie County, Fredericksburg was founded in 1846 and named after Prince Frederick of Prussia. Old-time German residents often referred to Fredericksburg as Fritztown, a nickname that...

From an architectural viewpoint, Comfort is extremely rich. Nearly the entire downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places. Many rock buildings and businesses remain in a splendid state of...

Lake Belton Sunset

Belton Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir on the Leon River in the Brazos River basin, 5 miles (8 km) northwest of Belton, United States. The lake extends into both Bell...

A trip worth the drive—11 unique places to visit in central Texas

Here are 11 unique places in central texas worth a day trip..

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5 Souls Wine Co.

Now that spring has arrived, a day trip is just what the doctor ordered. Lucky for Texans, the state is filled with eccentric and unique locations worth visiting.

Whether you want to visit places that will make you feel like you’ve traveled across the world or quirky locations where you can find good food, company and people, here are 11 places worth the day trip.

Berdoll Pecan Candy & Gift Company, 30 minutes away

Photo via Berdoll Pecan Candy & Gift Company

Berdoll Pecan Candy & Gift Company

Address: 2626 TX-71, Cedar Creek

If you find yourself craving delicious pecan pies in the middle of the night, take a short 30 minute drive to Cedar Creek where you will find not only the world’s largest squirrel statue holding a pecan, but a fully-operated pecan pie vending machine.

The vending machine was made possible by the family-operated venture of Berdoll Pecan farm , whose pecan pies are so good and in such high demand, they had to make it more accessible for all 24 hours of the day. Located right outside of the Berdoll Pecan Candy & Gift Company shop, pecan pie lovers can buy not only sweet pecan treats but full-sized pecan pies.

The squirrel, also known as Ms. Pearl, stands tall at 14 feet and has hundreds of visitors from all around the country every week. With her sassy attitude and large size, it’s hard to miss Ms. Pearl and the amazing smell of pecan pies at this Cedar Creek treasure.

The Gas Station, 40 minutes away

Address: 1073 SH 304, Bastrop

Fans of the horror classic “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” have a must visit location less than an hour away from Austin.

The Gas Station , located in Bastrop, is home to the living tribute of the 1974 horror classic. Owner Roy Rose turned the location into a horror barbecue resort, where fans of the film can enjoy barbecue and a stay at the formerly known Last Chance gas station where in the film, customers were turned into smoked meats and chili by the cannibal Sawyer family.

Lucky for us, the new and improved gas station will be serving delicious brisket sandwiches instead of, as the film goes, people. And if eating barbecue isn’t enough for all the horror film fanatics, the location offers four rustic cabins and a campsite for the full Texas Chainsaw overnight experience. Although, if you are planning on staying overnight, the cabins are in high demand so book in advance.

5 Soul Wine Co., 40 minutes away

5 Soul Wine Co .

Address: 4514 Bob Wire Road, Spicewood

With sunny and warm weather ahead of us, some days a relaxing location is all we need to enjoy our days. Whether that means sipping on glasses—or bottles—of wine or playing Pickleball in the Hill Country, 5 Soul Wine Co. hase you covered for a wonderful Austin-style good time.

Located in Spicewood, 5 Soul Wine Co. is operated as an adult playland for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Longtime friends Shannon Grant and Chris Carson, along with their wives Danielle and Kellie, wanted to create a place where people could drink wine and surround themselves with other great souls. The winery offers five different wines: rosé, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon.

If you’re in need of some food and snacks, light appetizers are offered in the tasting room as well as a food truck onsite. Bringing your kids? The 5 Souls Wine Co. courtyard, shared with Frontyard Brewing , has a playground area for kids of all ages. Wanting to play a game? The courtyard also has Pickleball Courts available to rent per hour.

Gruene Hall, 1 hour away

@GrueneHall

Address: 1281 Gruene Road, New Braunfels

Put on your dancing boots and head out to Gruene where all things are green, friendly and in the full Texas spirit.

Gruene Hall, located in the historic district of Gruene, is the oldest continually operating and most famous dance hall in Texas. Built in 1878 in the former German town, Gruene Hall has hosted some of the biggest music names such as George Strait, Willie Nelson, Garth Brooks, The Dixie Chicks, now known as The Chicks, Miranda Lambert and many more since 1975.

During sunny weekends in Gruene, the town is crowded with hundreds of tourists who can explore boutiques, different restaurants and enjoy the outdoors before attending a concert at Gruene Hall.

The Painted Churches, 1 hour and 21 minutes away

Address: St Mary’s Catholic Church, Schulenburg

Dating all the way back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, The Painted Churches of Texas were built by Czech and German immigrants throughout Schulenburg and as they searched to begin their new lives in Texas.

Over a dozen active churches, filled with breathtaking works of art and historical sentiment, still stand strong as a reminder of the important meaning it had to all the settlers who made Texas their home. With detailed hand-painted ceilings and decorative paintings, the churches can be visited in a tour or individually throughout Central Texas.

Although the churches look ordinary from the outside, the amount of detail and art inside is worth any day trip. From the well-known queen of painted churches, St. Mary’s Church High Hill, to the pink St. John the Baptist Church, the Central Texas historical churches are a sight to be seen in person, so make sure to plan ahead your painted churches tour .

Fischer & Wieser’s Das Peach Haus, 1 hour and 40 minutes away

Fischer & Wieser’s Das Peach Haus

Address: 1406 S. US Hwy 87, Fredericksburg

If the smell and beautiful sight of peaches isn’t enough to entice a visit to Fredericksburg, Das Peach Haus has everything you need for a perfect trip: wine, food, jam and a beautiful outdoor venue to help you enjoy the sunny spring weather.

The specialty food company was founded by Case Fischer and Mark Wieser as a culinary exploration in the Texas Hill Country. Born on a peach orchard in 1928, the historic place has over 170 sauces, jams and jellies along with a vegetable garden and delicious unique wines. If you are a food and wine amateur connoisseur, this Fredericksburg gem is a perfect culinary playland for all adults.

Dr. Pepper Museum, less than 2 hours away

Address: 300 S. 5th St., Waco

Texans are prideful of all things Texas, and Dr. Pepper is no exception. Invented in 1885, the beloved soft drink has made a name for itself throughout the nation and it all started in Waco.

The Dr. Pepper museum is run by a nonprofit organization telling the story of Dr. Pepper and how it became a hit in the soft drink industry. The museum is located in the original Dr. Pepper bottling plant building from 1906, and sees hundreds of visitors wanting to know more about their favorite fizzy drink.

Museum admission is $10 for adults and no reservation is needed, so pack up the car and learn about Texas’ most popular soft drink, while sipping on a handcrafted Dr. Pepper from the museum’s Soda Foundation.

Antique Rose Emporium, 1 hour and 40 minutes away

Antique Rose Emporium

Address: 10000 FM 50, Brenham

With the arrival of spring comes blooming and thriving flowers across the state. Whether you’ve driven past some bluebonnets or are in search of beautiful fields of bright colors, Antique Rose Emporium has all the beautiful springtime colors ready to welcome you for a breathtaking view.

Located in Brenham, The Display Gardens were created in 1984 by owner Mike Shoup as a way to showcase roses in a new, different way.

While visiting the Antique Rose Emporium, you can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine while touring the eight acres of award-winning gardens and the old church on the property. If you’re interested in purchasing plants and flowers or having a picnic, the Antique Rose Emporium, with tranquil music playing in the background, is a perfect day trip for all.

Newman’s Castle: 2 hours away

Newman’s Castle

Address: 504 E. Main Street, Belville

Filled with surprises and unique places, it should be no surprise to any Texan exploring the state to find a medieval castle in the middle of Bellville.

Newman’s Castle , built and owned by local bakery owner Mike Newman, is another gem in the Lone Star State worth visiting. Newman, who explored Europe in his early 20s and had the idea to build his own castle, broke ground in 1998 to build his fortress and now lives in the home. The project was completed in 2006 and has been visited by hundreds of people from around the country, along with his bakery, Newman’s Bakery.

If you are interested in a castle tour, make a reservation and visit Newman’s Bakery where for $20 per person, King Mike Newman will give you the eccentric grand tour himself.

Dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area

Dinosaur Tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area

Address: 12861 Galm Road, San Antonio

If you took Texas History in school, you might remember learning about The Alamo, but over 100 million years ago, prehistoric creatures, roamed what once was a beach in the San Antonio area.

Government Canyon State Natural Area is the only place in Texas where you can stroll along where dinosaurs once wandered. The dinosaur tracks were encountered in 2014 by park officials and after being explored by local paleontologists, hundreds of tracks were found throughout the area. Previously buried beneath layers of sediment and water, the tracks were found to match two different dinosaurs: Acrocanthosaurus and Sauroposeidon.

The historic finding is another treasure found along the Texas borders where hundreds of visitors every year can discover amazing tracks and learn about what once roamed the Lone Star state.

Stonehenge II, 2.5 hours away

The Hill Country Arts Foundation Point Theatre

Address: 120 Point Theatre Road S., Ingram

Most people around the world are familiar with the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge in England, but lucky for us Texans, we don’t have to travel too far to see a replica of the world-renown exhibit.

Originally located in the city of Hunt, Stonehenge II was created as an art project by the late and retired oilman Al Shepperd with help from his friend and neighbor Doug Hill. The replica, which took nine months to build, is 90% the height and 60% the width of the original but is still a sight to be seen. And if Stonehenge II is not enough for you to make the trip out, Shepperd also added two 13 foot Easter Island monolithic human figures of moai to make visiting Hunt seem like a trip around the world.

In order to preserve the beloved Texas landmark and monument, the sculptures were relocated in 2010 on the campus of the Hill Country Arts Foundation beside the Guadalupe River in the city of Ingram, where Shepperd was a patron. Nowadays, thousands of tourists from all over the world travel to see the replica of prehistoric times in the small town.

34 of the Best Small Towns in Texas That You Don't Hear About Enough

There's a world of hidden gems beyond the bustling metropolises of Dallas, Houston, and Austin.

Welcome to the Lone Star State, where the possibilities for an epic road trip are as vast as the Texan landscape itself. Texas , known for its sprawling highways that seem to stretch on forever, offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking adventure on the open road—and as you hit that road, you'll discover that beyond the towering skyscrapers and bustling metropolises of Dallas and Houston, there are plenty of hidden gems tucked away along Texas's charming backroads.

From Amarillo to Terlingua, these treasures beckon with their authentic charm, warm hospitality, and a glimpse into the heart and soul of Texas. Whether it's a town known for its world-class barbecue, a haven for artists and craftsmen, or a place steeped in historical significance, each stop on this list offers something truly special, but most importantly: the chance to slow down, take in the sights, and experience the true essence of Texas.

From the friendly locals who greet you with a warm "howdy, y'all" to quaint main streets lined with boutique shops and local eateries, every small town (or, yes, a city or two that we find equally charming) in Texas has unique character waiting to be explored.

When visiting Gruene , a town established by German farmers in the 1840s, the no. 1 thing on your to-do list should be seeing a show at the famous Gruene Hall , Texas's oldest operating dance hall, built in 1878. And just a few steps away, you'll find this sweet bed and breakfast : Gruene Mansion Inn .

Fredericksburg

If you're looking for the perfect spot for a girls' getaway , Fredericksburg is a great home base for visiting some of Texas's best wineries. The Texas Hill Country region is home to more than 45 vineyards, including favorites like Barons Creek Vineyards and 16 others that are all a part of the local winery association, Fredericksburg Wine Road 290 .

Only 13 miles from Fredericksburg, Luckenbach is another must-see Hill Country town. You can still visit its oldest building today—it's a combination of a general store, post office, and a saloon, which opened in 1886, a few decades after the town was established as a trading post in 1849.

Visit the border town of Laredo, one of the oldest border-crossing points, which sits on the north bank of the Rio Grande River. In the heart of the downtown historic district, don't miss visiting the Cathedral of San Agustin, which dates back to 1872.

It might seem unlikely that a Prada-themed art exhibit would exist in the middle of nowhere, a.k.a. Marfa, Texas , a city with less than 2,000 people—but that's precisely what has made this little town so famous. The 2005 Prada Marfa exhibit is a one-room, stucco replica of an actual Prada store, designed by artists Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset. It's become a cultural landmark for the tiny town, with visitors, including celebs like Beyoncé , passing through to see it.

Brownsville

Saying you've visited Brownsville , located at the southernmost tip of Texas, is an accomplishment in and of itself, since the state is so large! While you're there, don't forget to visit the beautiful historic downtown on Elizabeth Street.

If you're driving along Route 66 , make a pit stop in Amarillo, where you'll find The Big Texan Steak Ranch , home of a 72-ounce steak. And if you're in the mood for something quirky, check out the roadside art attraction Cadillac Ranch , featuring 10 graffiti-covered Cadillacs.

Known for its historic courthouse square and namesake lake, Granbury has plenty to offer visitors. After a walk around the square, check out the Granbury Opera House for a live performance. When you’re ready to hit the lake for fishing and water sports, Granbury has its own sandy beach, City Beach Park, perfect for families looking for a fun day out.

If there’s one town on this list you’ve heard of, Waco is probably it. Home to HGTV's "Fixer Upper" stars Chip and Joanna Gaines, Waco has significantly transformed since the pair first appeared on your TV set. Head downtown to the Silos and Magnolia Market to shop and grab a bite to eat at the Magnolia Table—and then see a Broadway-style show at the Waco Hippodrome Theatre . Not far away, the Dr. Pepper Museum showcases the history of the beloved Texas soft drink invented in the town. Baylor University also has several museums that are open to the public, including the Texas Sports Hall of Fame and the Mayborn Museum Complex.

Port Lavaca

Port Lavaca is a coastal Texas town that offers a serene escape with its beautiful beaches and scenic waterfront. The town is especially popular for fishing and water sports, but visitors can also relax on the sandy shores of Magnolia Beach or explore the nearby Matagorda Island Wildlife Management Area.

Port Isabel

Located on the southern tip of Texas, Port Isabel is a small coastal town that boasts a rich history. Climb to the top of the Port Isabel Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and explore the nearby Port Isabel Historical Museum to learn more about the area's past.

This small north Texas town features a charming town square with many unique boutiques and antique shops. The square is the heart of the town’s many festivities, like the Cooper Crawfish Bash and the Tour de Paris Bicycle Rally. You can also find plenty of outdoor recreational activities at Cooper Lake State Park nearby, like camping, fishing, swimming, and hiking.

Dripping Springs

About 23 miles west of Austin, you'll find the town of Dripping Springs, where you can take a refreshing dip in the Hamilton Pool Preserve , a picturesque swimming hole created thousands of years ago after an eroded underground river collapsed.

This vibrant coastal city is located on Galveston Island in the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its historic architecture, stunning beaches, and lively entertainment, Galveston offers plenty of things to do: Visitors can explore the Strand Historic District, filled with Victorian-era buildings; relax on beautiful beaches; and enjoy attractions, such as the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and Moody Gardens.

Ask any Texan, and they'll tell you: The Dr. Pepper you can get in Dublin, where the drink originated, is the best of its kind. For more than 120 years, Dublin Bottling Works has been bottling sodas, and the company's Texas-made Imperial Pure Cane Sugar makes their Dr. Pepper so unique and sweet. While the company no longer bottles Dr. Pepper, you can still taste the soda at Old Doc's Soda Shop .

Port Aransas

As the only established town on Mustang Island, Port Aransas offers plenty of family-oriented activities, including visiting several local beaches, fishing on the Horace Caldwell Pier, and visiting the Lydia Ann Lighthouse.

This small town in Caldwell County holds a big claim to fame: It's renowned as the "Barbecue Capital of Texas." Famous for its mouthwatering barbecue, with several legendary barbecue joints serving up delicious smoked meats, Lockhart also boasts a charming downtown area with historic buildings, boutique shops, and local restaurants. The nearby Lockhart State Park also offers camping, hiking, and swimming.

It might be home to a little more than 2,000 people, but Shiner is also home to the famous Texas brewery, Shiner Beer , which started brewing in 1909. You can take a tour of the Spoetzl Brewery, where they still produce every single drop of Shiner Bock.

New Braunfels

If you've never been floatin', grab your inner tube, because New Braunfels is a good place to start. Relax while floating down the Guadalupe River, or you can visit the famed Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort if nature's not your thing.

The Comanche Museum and Cultural Center features exhibits on the town's interesting history, including the Comanche Indian tribe, pioneer life, and the Chisholm Trail. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike or trail ride through beautiful terrain at nearby Comanche Trail Park and end the day by checking out one of the town's many wineries.

Laura Ratliff is a New York City-based writer, editor, and runner. Laura's writing expertise spans numerous topics, ranging from travel and food and drink to reported pieces covering political and human rights issues. She has previously worked at Architectural Digest , Bloomberg News , and Condé Nast Traveler and was most recently the senior editorial director at TripSavvy . Like many of us, Laura was bitten by the running bug later in life, after years of claiming to "hate running." Her favorite marathon is Big Sur.

Madison Alcedo was the Assistant Editor at WomansDay.com and Redbookmag.com.

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20 Fabulous Small Towns in Texas You Must Visit

Sure, everyone knows Austin, Houston, and Dallas, but what about all the charming small towns in between that make up the heart and soul of Texas?

Those are my favorite towns, and this is a list of a few fabulous small towns in Texas for you to see !

These charming small towns will make you feel right at home with their southern charm, interesting history, and incredible people.

We love visiting these towns in Texas, especially on Texas road trips, and we hope you will too!

When you need a break from the big cities, these small towns will fit the bill!

*This post contains affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you.  That Texas Couple also participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents (Click to Unroll)

Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg is definitely one of the small towns in Texas that we love, thanks to its unique German heritage! 

You will find this great place about 70 miles north of San Antonio, which is on the list of  up-and-coming US Travel Destinations .

You can enjoy some awesome German restaurants and see some sites on this town’s National Register of Historic Places!

Visitors love to camp or hike at Enchanted Rock State Park and find it the perfect place to connect with nature.

History lovers will enjoy visiting the National Museum of the Pacific War. The National Museum of the Pacific War is a world-class museum that is definitely worth seeing.

Boerne is one of the best small towns in Texas for nature lovers as it sits right on the Guadalupe River in the Texas Hill Country , an easy day trip from several Texas cities.

Visitors will enjoy the Hill Country Mile, Boerne’s main street historic district, which is a shopper’s paradise .

Nature lovers won’t want to miss Cibolo Nature Center, the Guadalupe River, and Guadalupe State Park. 

Read Next : Epic Things To Do In New Orleans

Grapevine is one of the best small towns in Texas for family fun .

In North Texas, between Dallas and Fort Worth, Grapevine has many great family activities and is an easy day trip from Dallas .

Grapevine’s Main Street, which is also its his toric downtown , boasts loads of boutique clothing stores, fabulous restaurants, and wine bars.

Grapevine also hosts festivals and events year-round.  

Dubbed “ The Christmas Capital of Texas ”, December is a great time to visit Grapevine as it is a fabulous Texas Christmas town !

Located about 45 minutes southwest of Fort Worth, Granbury is one of our favorite small towns in Texas.

The quaint town of Granbury is best known for the great recreational lake that the town is located around, but Lake Granbury isn’t the only draw for this town.  

Granbury is full of Texas history and is one of the most charming small Texas towns .

Not only that, but there are so many  things to do in Granbury, TX , that you can easily stay entertained!

In addition to the lake activities, visit Granbury’s historic town square.

On the historic downtown square, you will find The Granbury Opera House, boutique shops, eateries, wine-tasting rooms, and more!

Located just off of I-35 in the Hill Country is Gruene.  

One of the best small towns in Texas, Gruene is a town that is a favorite for locals and tourists alike, making it an easy day trip from Austin .

Gruene is home to the famous Gruene Hall dance hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas. 

People love to hear the live music performed at this historic dance hall while two-stepping to the beat of country music. 

Gruene Hall dates back to the 19th century (1878, to be exact) and has purposefully not changed much since its inception.

Visitors will also find a fun square with antique shops, a General store, wine bars, river tubing outfitters along the Guadalupe River, and the historic Gruene River Inn at this town in Texas.

Honestly, this town is full of Texas charm!

Dripping Springs

Take the scenic drive about 23 miles west of Austin into the Texas Hill Country, and you will run into one of the best small towns, Dripping Springs.

Dubbed the “Wedding Capital of Texas” and one of the charming small towns in Texas we love!

If a wedding isn’t in your future, don’t worry, there are other things to do in town. 

Take note of the town’s namesake located in the downtown area, the dripping springs. 

The limestone ledge constantly drips water into the small stream below.

Don’t let the small size of Dublin fool you. 

There are so many  things to do in Dublin, TX  that you will easily stay entertained (and full)!  

Dublin is best known for the Texas soda Dr. Pepper.

Although they no longer bottle Dr. Pepper, Dublin Bottling Works still has amazing soda flavors from their small production facility. 

Take a tour through the factory and make your own souvenir soda before visiting the museum and checking out the shops around town.

Marble Falls

It’s easy to pass through Marble Falls on your way through the Texas Hill Country, but trust me; Marble Falls is worth spending some time in.

Marble Falls is another great town for nature lovers. 

Explore the Balcones Canyonlands Natural Wildlife Refuge or spend a lazy day on Lake Marble Falls.

A trip to Marble Falls is not incomplete until you get a delicious slice of pie from the Bluebonnet Cafe. Trust us!

Located off of I-35, about an hour north of Waco, West is the place for Czech heritage in Texas.

The Czech Stop Bakery is a favorite stop for anyone traveling through this area.  

Famous for their kolaches, The Czech Stop never disappoints when it comes to having fresh pastries that are big on flavor.  

Every year in September, West turns into Czech heaven when “Westfest” takes over the town, and they celebrate their Czech heritage in this tiny town.

Read Next : Visiting the San Antonio River Walk at Christmas

Luckenbach, Texas

This historic town of Luckenbach, TX, dates back to 1970 when Hondo Crouch founded it as a joke.

Luckenbach, Texas, is a tiny dot on the big Texas map located just north of San Antonio and west of Austin.

The small town consists of a post office, a general store, and the main draw, a Texas dance hall.  

Spend the evening listening to live music, having drinks, and two-stepping until your feet hurt.

Oh, and don’t forget to pick up a souvenir from the general store and take your picture in front of the post office!

Luckenbach, TX, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

New Braunfels

Beating the Texas heat is easy in New Braunfels, so it had to make our list of the best small towns in Texas to visit.

Grab your tube and a cooler and join the hundreds of other people relaxing the day away on the Comal River.  

No worries if it isn’t summertime when you visit; there is still plenty to do in New Braunfels. 

Catch a movie at their drive-in theatre or sip wine in the local winery.

Read Next: 15 Fun Things to Do in Glen Rose, TX

If you are looking for a small town in Texas with charm and originality, you must head to Wimberley, Texas.  

Located about an hour from Austin and other big cities, Wimberley is a great small town.

Head down to the Wimberley town square to shop at the boutiques, tour the art galleries and the general store, and enjoy some great food at the local eateries.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to  do in Wimberley  as well.  

Located on the Blanco River and Cypress Creek, you can enjoy various outdoor activities, including fishing, swimming in the Blue Hole, hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, and camping.

Salado is a charming small town with a big art community! 

Salado prides itself on being an artistic community, apparent everywhere in this small Texas town.

You can spend hours on Salado’s main street shopping in eclectic shops, eating at the yummy eateries, or sipping wine in the wine bars.  

Art lovers will appreciate the glass-blowing studio, the beautiful art galleries around town, and the Salado Sculpture Garden.

Port Isabel

Of course, we couldn’t make a list of small towns in Texas and not include Port Isabel.

This little jewel on the Texas coast is just begging you to visit.

Port Isabel is most famous for the 1800s Isabel lighthouse (one of the oldest in Texas), part of this family-friendly community.

Don’t overlook that Port Isabel is also one of the oldest coastal towns in Texas.

Read Next: 20 Fun Things to do in Galveston

Johnson City

Johnson City is a truly historic Texas town in Texas located about 60 miles north of San Antonio .  

Home to President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “Texas White House” and LBJ National Park, history lovers will appreciate that the Texas White House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Pedernales Falls is full of hiking trails and a beautiful river to help you find some relief from the summer heat.

This town offers a cute town square with several antique and various shops, a couple of wineries, Pecan Street Brewing, and Garrison Distillery.

Canyon is such a unique, small West Texas town. 

We love that Canyon is packed with a nice historic district with great food, unique shopping, and fun small-town charm.

Many people visit West Texas, and specifically Canyon, to tour  Palo Duro Canyon State Park  and see the acclaimed outdoor performance of the musical drama TEXAS.

The second-largest canyon in the United States, Palo Duro Canyon State Park, is called the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” 

In addition to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, you must spend time in its historic downtown area with unique shops, fun restaurants, and historic buildings.

Another one of the great towns on the coast of the Lone Star State, Rockport, is home to long fishing piers, historical sites, and soft sandy beaches. 

Be sure to visit the Aransas National Refuge Area and the Goose Island State Park while visiting.

Rockport before visiting Fulton Mansion State Historic Park. 

Visitors are introduced to life on the Texas coast in the 19th century.

Of course, there are also several museums, shopping, and great restaurants in the Rockport area. 

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Nacogdoches

Located in East Texas, Nacogdoches makes for a great weekend getaway. 

Nacogdoches has such great attractions you are sure to stay busy and have a great time. 

Not only that, but Nacogdoches has tons of history as it is the oldest town in the Lone Star State.

Visit the red brick street of the downtown historic district area to get your fill on shopping, especially antiques, before grabbing lunch and exploring the historical sites of east Texas.

Located in the desert land of west Texas, Marfa is a little Texas gem. 

If you were driving through the area, you might miss the quaint town of Marfa. 

The Marfa Lights, glowing orbs that appear in the desert, were first seen in 1883 and have attracted visitors to the area ever since.

Be sure to visit the Ballroom Marfa. It is a great place to see some world-class art on display.

One of Marfa’s most popular attractions is the Prada Marfa store, although it is not technically in Marfa. 

The Prada store, Prada Marfa, is about minutes northwest of town.

Located near the Lone Star State border and the Rio Grande River, Terlingua is probably the town you will stay in if you visit Big Bend National Park.

The tiny desert town of Terlingua was a former mining town until the city was abandoned when the mining went under.

It was named a ghost town until its resurgence with Big Bend National Park.

Most people come to Terlingua to explore the abandoned buildings and homes and to use it as a home base when visiting Big Bend National Park.

While in the area, you should also check out the small towns of Alpine and Marfa.

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Sunday 7th of April 2024

Great suggestions! When I studied in Houston, we also went to Galveston a lot... perhaps my favourite town in Texas, although I am not sure it still counts as a "small town"

thattexascouple

Monday 8th of April 2024

You're right, it has grown so much! I still think of it as a small town though ;)

Laureen Lund

Saturday 6th of April 2024

I have visited several of these on a visit a few years ago. But most of these I have never heard of! Looks like I need to get back to the Lone Star State. Thanks for opening my eyes.

Thanks for checking it out, Laureen!

I love how you constantly reveal new places and things to see in Texas. I find small towns are a favorite place to visit in my travels.

Thank you so much, Terri!

Fun and FREE Things to Do in Glen Rose, Texas You Cannot Miss!

Tuesday 25th of October 2022

[…] Rose is also one of the prettiest small towns in Texas. It is located on the outskirts of the Texas Hill Country with a calming river running through the […]

Thursday 21st of April 2022

Love the suggestions. Have you been to Calvert, TX? Cute little town with a winery and a lovely coffee shop with fresh made pastries that would put Starbucks to shame. Wonderful day trip just 30 minutes north of College Station.

Friday 22nd of April 2022

Hi Sheila. Thank you so much for reading the post and taking time to comment. We have not been to Calvert (well, other than just passing through). I will definitely add it to our list. Hopefully we can visit soon! What's the name of the coffee shop?

Touropia Travel

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15 Most Charming Small Towns in Texas

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on November 3, 2023

The second largest state in America, Texas is positively huge. The landscape changes dramatically throughout the expanses of the Lone Star State, from deserts and scrublands to swamps, pine forests, and mountains.

So do the small towns of Texas; from Spanish-influenced former Mexican villages to whole areas founded and settled by German immigrants, the culture of Texas lies in mines, cowboys and a whole lot of nature to explore and conquer. Get ready for some long, beautiful road trips and some big, tasty plates of food: Texas awaits.

15. Port Isabel [SEE MAP]

Boasting the only town in Texas with its very own lighthouse, Port Isabel is the place to go for warm sea breezes on a charming backdrop. The town dates back to the 1700s when Mexican ranchers settled a small village here which was abandoned and reclaimed by the US.

Lighthouse Square is a quaint area of town to explore, full of quirky shops stocking sea-themed souvenirs, as well as little restaurants. There’s also Pirate’s Landing Fishing Pier, which grabs the title of the longest pier in the state. Pirate’s Landing Restaurant nearby is set on an actual pirate-esque ship and serves up tasty seafood.

14. Shiner [SEE MAP]

Set in Lavaca County, Shiner developed as a town from humble beginnings. Originally, there was just a trading depot here, but things began growing when a post office was set up in 1885. The town originally attracted German and Czech immigrants; this heritage is definitely something that has rubbed off on the town’s cultural landscape.

Sausage and polka aside, most notably that would be in terms of beer. Shiner is famous – maybe just with beer-drinkers – throughout the US; beers carrying the ‘Shiner’ brand are sold in 43 states. Tours of the Spoetzl Brewery, America’s fourth-largest, are a beer lover’s dream.

13. Marble Falls [SEE MAP]

This central Texan town, founded in the late 19th century, is home to the Blue Bonnet Cafe – famous throughout Texas for serving what are regularly touted as the state’s best pies. But laid back Marble Falls is also well known for being a mecca for adventure sports enthusiasts.

Nearby, there’s the Hidden Falls Adventure Park, where you can get let loose on an ATV or 4X4 to explore the rugged terrain and waterfalls that attract adrenaline junkies and tourists from far and wide. Back in town, there are tons of galleries to explore if getting out into nature doesn’t float your boat.

12. Alpine [SEE MAP]

Way out in west Texas, Alpine is a key hub in the state’s Big Bend region. It’s a relatively large town to explore, packed full of things to do. From nightlife to America’s most remote brewery, and museums like the Museum of the Big Bend and the historic Brewster County Courthouse and Jail (1888), there’s lots to see in town.

For great views, hike up nearby Hancock Hill, or drive west out of town and head through Paisano Pass Volcano. It’s also easy to reach Big Bend National Park from here.

11. Llano [SEE MAP]

The capital of the eponymous county of Llano, this town is filled with historic buildings. There’s the 1881 Southern Hotel, the Badu Building, and the impressive Llano County Courthouse and Jail. You can also soak up some more history and heritage at the Llano County Museum, which is set inside the vintage fittings and fixtures of a former drugstore.

Just opposite is the Historic Railyard District. If you’ve had your fill of history, head south to explore the Llano Uplift, which is full of eerie rock formations like Enchanted Mountain.

10. Bandera [SEE MAP]

Founded by Polish immigrants, Bandera is home to one of the oldest churches in Texas – St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, built in 1887 and boasting some beautiful artwork. Though other historic buildings like the Bandera County Courthouse dot the town, it’s much more famous as “The Cowboy Capital of the World”. That’s because of the amount of cowboys and ranches that are still active in the area. You can even kit yourself out in cowboy garb at the Bandera General Store. The Frontier Times Museum shows what life was like in 1920s Bandera.

9. Marfa [SEE MAP]

The Presidio County Courthouse in Marfa, dating back to 1886, isn’t just an impressive slice of history – you can actually get to the top of the courthouse itself for an amazing view of the whole town. Really though, Marfa is known for its art, particularly of the minimalist kind.

New York artist Donald Judd moved here in 1971, bought a couple of hangars, and the rest is history. Those hangars now make up the Chinati Foundation, where you can head for a slice of kooky art. But for true kookiness, hit up Prada Marfa: a “pop architectural land art project” that looks just like a Prada store.

8. Rockport [SEE MAP]

Rockport is a fun coastal town where you’ll get to fish, go out on a boat, go swimming, waterskiing, and get your fill of seafood, of course. It’s not just the sea that makes this Arkansas County town so attractive, though; Rockport boasts a beautiful heritage district where you can wander around marveling at historic buildings, like the Queen Anne style Hoopes-Smith House and the Fulton Mansion.

For even more ancient history, get yourself over to Goose Island State Park, where you’ll find The Big Tree. At anywhere between 1,000 – 2,000 years old, this is one of the largest living oak trees in the USA.

7. Luckenbach [SEE MAP]

Nestled in Texas Hill Country, you could be forgiven for thinking that tiny Luckenbach has anything going for it. It really is small. Just under 20 kilometers from the much, much larger Fredericksburg, Luckenbach takes up just over nine acres.

There are some quaint old buildings to admire here, like the Luckenbach Post Office (1850) and the former general store – which doubled as a saloon. Since the early 1970s, Luckenbach has had an affinity with country music and, if you’re a fan, you should definitely catch a show here.

6. Granbury [SEE MAP]

This northern Texas town features an iconic and historic town square, filled with shops, restaurants, and bars – the perfect place to start a day or an evening of fun in Granbury. There’s a lot of history too. The Hood County Courthouse in the square still even has its own hand-wound clock dating all the way back to the 1800s.

Throughout Granbury, there are a number of late 19th century houses to discover, like the Daniel-Harris Home and the Ashton House. It’s said that John Wilkes Booth, who assassinated Abraham Lincoln, fled to Granbury and lived under a different name. Apparently, a man claimed to be Jesse James is buried in Granbury Cemetery.

5. Terlingua [SEE MAP]

The desert town of Terlingua is located close to the Mexican border and is famous for its ghost town. Once a former mining colony, the town’s population dwindled and it was abandoned altogether. You can even stay in the former Perry Mansion, which looks derelict from the outside but is well furnished within!

A local hangout is the Terlingua Trading Company, where you can browse the quirky shop and sip a beer on the porch. Terlingua’s proximity to the Big Bend National Park makes it the perfect jumping off point for exploring all the natural wonders on offer here.

4. Wimberley [SEE MAP]

Located in Hays County, Wimberley is a small, chilled-out town that’s great for a remote retreat. There are some good opportunities to soak up the natural environment that this region is blessed with.

You can take a drive down the Devil’s Backbone – a scenic slice of highway – get some fantastic views by walking the 218 steps up Prayer Mountain, or simply cool off at the Blue Hole – one of the nicest swimming holes in Texas. The clue is in the name: the water is a mesmerizing shade of blue!

3. Jefferson [SEE MAP]

Tourists flock to Jefferson because it’s a beautiful place to visit. First of all, there are a whole lot of historic buildings in town – such the imposing Old Post Office, Excelsior House, and the Jefferson Carnegie Library, as well as almost all the buildings of the downtown area.

Secondly, there are also bayous to explore; you can head to Caddo State Park to do just that. Jefferson also holds the title of “The Most Haunted Small Town in Texas” – you should go to The Grove to see why.

2. Gruene [SEE MAP]

For all things old, vintage and antique, you should definitely make your way to Gruene. Much of this town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a definitively historic place to wander around.

You can soak up the ambiance at the Gruene Hall – one of the oldest open-air dance halls in Texas – or even stay in a slice of the town’s heritage yourself at the Greune Family Home, an utterly charming Victorian-style building that dates back to 1872. When the tourist crowds get too much, head out of town and watch the Guadalupe River surge by.

1. Fredericksburg [SEE MAP]

The home of German culture in America, Fredericksburg was founded in 1846 by German immigrants and named after Prince Frederick of Prussia. For fans of beer, you’re in luck; there are a few places to enjoy a stein or two of the good stuff in Fredericksburg. These include the Altdorf Biergarten, the Fredericksburg Brewing Company – where you can partake in a tour – and the Auslander, which is also a restaurant where you can dig into pretzels and sausages.

Fredericksburg Historic District is a great place to learn about, and admire, the heritage of this interesting Texas town.

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June 10, 2019 at 9:35 am

Georgetown is north of Austin and south of Belton.

January 25, 2019 at 9:06 am

where is georgetown?

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25+ Best Small Towns in Texas (+ Map to Find Them!)

While the cities are popular and natural areas stunning, there’s no way to fully appreciate the beauty and diversity of the Lone Star State without checking out some of the best small towns in Texas!

From the vineyards and natural beauty of the Hill Country to quirky spots like Marfa, Texas’ small towns are like nowhere else.

One of our favorite aspects of running a Texas travel blog is having a great excuse to visit new-to-us cute towns on a regular basis.

We’ve rounded up the most charming small towns in Texas here!

Here on Lone Star Travel Guide, we have detailed guides to most of the towns on this list, so be sure to check underneath each description for the link to the full guide to the towns that intrigue you the most.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

25+ Incredible Small Towns in Texas

Fredericksburg.

Undoubtedly one of the best-known small towns in Texas, popular Fredericksburg is known for two things: its German heritage and its many, many wineries .

While you’re there, consider making the short drive to Enchanted Rock , too.

After all, you’ll no doubt want to stretch your legs after feasting on Texas wine and German food!

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Fredericksburg !

Dripping Springs

Home to the famous Hamilton Pool Preserve, plenty of wineries and distilleries, and some of Texas’ loveliest Hill Country wedding venues, Dripping Springs is a delightfully charming town–and it makes an excellent day trip from Austin!

Be sure to also check out Tillies, a beautiful restaurant housed in a former Vietnamese courthouse that was imported to Texas, charming Mercer Street with its boutiques and restaurants, the Dr. Pound Farmstead.

Jester King Brewery, where you can drink craft beer and also hang out with goats, is wildly popular for a reason.

Another must, in my opinion, is the delightful Texas Hill Country Olive Oil Co., where you can pick up local Texas olive oil (it’s delicious).

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Dripping Springs !

Charming Round Top is synonymous in Texas with its annual antiques fair, but it is one of the most beautiful small towns in Texas to visit year-round.

In addition to the many, many antique stores around town perfect for shopping in Round Top (don’t miss McLaren’s, complete with London-style double-decker buses out front), a visit to this tiny town should definitely include a slice of pie from Royer’s!

Also, be sure to take strolls around Henkel Square Market and Rummel Square.

A short drive away, you can also pay a quick visit to nearby St. Martin’s Catholic Church , the smallest (active) Catholic Church in the world!

Johnson City

As the hometown of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s family, today this tiny town is best known for being a short drive from the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Site and State Historic Site, which can be found on the former president’s beautiful (and still working) ranch.

While most of the historic site is technically a short drive away in Stonewall, the Johnson Family Homestead, where the former grandparents’ lived, is right in town.

However, it’s also very close to Pedernales Falls, so if you swing by, consider making time for visiting both the ranch and charming Pedernales Falls State Park.

Also, if you happen to be looking at small cities to visit in December, Johnson City’s impressive Lights Spectacular makes it one of the best Christmas towns in Texas !

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Johnson City !

Home to just 3 official residents, the positively minuscule town of Luckenbach is the tiniest of all the best small towns in Texas!

Despite its small size, Luckenbach is well-known as a country music hotspot, and is home to a popular dance hall and far more live shows than one would expect from a town of merely 3 people!

While Luckenbach doesn’t offer enough sightseeing to fill up a whole trip on its own, its proximity to other hotspots like Fredericksburg and Stonewall makes it an excellent addition to a Texas Hill Country road trip .

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Luckenbach !

Tucked into a quiet corner of west Texas, Marfa has gained notoriety in recent years for how utterly unexpected it is!

Home to several works by Andy Warhol, the mysterious Marfa Lights, plenty of filming locations for historic movies, and a downtown that looks like it was designed by Wes Anderson, Marfa is incredibly entertaining to visit and one of the most unique small towns in Texas.

The famous “Prada Marfa” store is located in nearby Valentine rather than right in town, but there’s no doubt that the vibe of the art installation is pure Marfa!

This East Texas gem is known as one of the most romantic towns in Texas, thanks in large part to its outsized collection of historic bed and breakfasts to stay in!

While many visitors travel to Jefferson to reach the unique Caddo Lake State Park , downtown is also a delight.

You can’t miss perusing the charming Jefferson General Store, touring Jay Gould’s elaborate private rail car that dates to the late 19th century, or browsing the many antique shops downtown when visiting Jefferson!

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Jefferson !

Most Texans are incredibly familiar with Shiner, even if they’ve never considered visiting this small Texas town with a population of merely 2,000 people.

This is the home of Shiner Beer, a staple of all Texas grocery stores and dive bars!

This claim to fame means that, by far, the most popular thing to do in Shiner is touring the home of Shiner Beer, Spoetzl Brewery

However, it’s worth staying long enough to check out the cute downtown after you wrap up your time at the brewery!

With a name like Dublin, is it any surprise that Dublin, Texas is extremely proud of its Irish heritage, mostly invented or otherwise?

This small Texas town is home to plenty of nods to Ireland, but surprisingly–despite the enormous St. Patrick’s Day celebration and its numerous Irish-themed businesses–this (possible) heritage is not what the town is best known for!

Instead, Dublin is best known as the home of Dublin Bottling Works, the original bottlers of Dr. Pepper (sadly they don’t bottle the drink anymore).

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Dublin !

There are plenty of reasons that Ennis could qualify as one of the best small towns in Texas, including its cute historic district, great Czech food, and annual Polka festival.

The absolute best reason to check out Ennis, though, comes around each April: bluebonnet season .

Home to 40 miles of what is called the Official Texas Bluebonnet Trail , there is no better place in North Texas to admire the iconic–and absolutely stunning–wildflowers each spring.

Though West is home to a cute-if-small downtown, it is primarily known for its Czech heritage and–more specifically–its kolaches.

Though the kolaches you find in West have certainly been Texas-ifed (I would never find my favorite combo, a sausage, cheese, and jalapeno klobasnek, for sale across the pond in the Czech Republic!), they are incredibly delicious.

The kolaches of West, Texas alone are delicious enough to rank West as one of the best small towns in Texas.

Known as the “barbecue capital of Texas”, you’ll definitely want to be sure to arrive in Lockhart with an empty stomach and a big appetite!

Smitty’s, Kreuz, and Black’s are among the most legendary barbecue spots in the area, but Lockhart is also home to plenty of breweries, one of the most beautiful courthouses in Texas, and a big helping of small-town Texas charm.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Lockhart !

The adorable small town of Boerne is located just outside of San Antonio, but it feels worlds apart from the hustle and bustle of the city.

With a strong German heritage, a beautiful downtown packed with restaurants and antique shops, and plenty of year-round festivals to hit up, Boerne is a fun and simple way to enjoy a classic small Texas town without traveling far.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Boerne !

For much of the first half of the 20th century, Terlingua was a booming mining town–but today, it is the only Texas ghost town on this list of the best small towns in Texas.

After the Chisos Mining Company went bankrupt in 1942, this small settlement between Big Bend National Park and Big Bend State Park ended up abandoned.

Today, though, the remains of the town have become a tourist attraction, and are incredibly interesting to visit.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Terlingua !

Home to the “most beautiful town square in Texas”, Georgetown can sometimes be overlooked as one of Texas’ cutest towns simply because it is so close to Austin that it more-or-less operates as a suburb of the capital these days.

But, its gorgeous downtown and plethora of things to do make Georgetown a destination in its own right!

Georgetown is technically one of the best small Texas cities, rather than towns, but it definitely offers classic Texas small-town vibes in its core.

In addition to touring the downtown square and historic courthouse, be sure to also visit the incredible Inner Space Caverns, go for a swim in Georgetown’s Blue Hole (not to be confused with Wimberley’s !), and attend the Red Poppy Festival.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Georgetown !

Located right on Lake Granbury, the quaint town of Granbury has been named the best historic small town in the country by USA Today, and a quick stroll through its historic center makes it clear why!

Granbury is beautiful, charming, and packed with a wide variety of things to do for a town so small, from getting out on the lake to touring the Hood County Jail Museum.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Granbury !

Located right where the Blanco River meets Cypress Creek in the Texas Hill Country, Wimberley is one of the best small towns in Texas for those looking for a swim.

The nearby Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well both draw in plenty of visitors hoping to beat the Texas heat, but if you visit, be sure to also for exploring Wimberley’s wonderful art and music scenes!

If you’re looking for easy-to-access Hill Country views, be sure to also climb Old Baldy (it’s not nearly as daunting as it sounds) during your trip to Wimberley!

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Wimberley !

Texans have all heard of Brenham for one very important reason: it’s where the original Blue Bell Creameries is located!

And yes, you can visit (and buy ice cream at the rate of $1 per giant scoop).

Once you finish touring Blue Bell , though, there’s still plenty more to explore in Brenham.

Consider exploring the walkable downtown center complete with lots of beautiful murals, paying a visit to a nearby lavender farm, touring the gorgeous Giddings Stone Mansion, and even taking the kids to ride a working antique carousel!

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Brenham !

Marble Falls

Located on the banks of Lake Marble Falls (which aren’t set on marble at all, but that classic Texas staple of limestone), Marble Falls is a charming Hill Country town .

Marble Falls is the ideal cute Texas town for both outdoor enthusiasts and those hoping to hit up the small-but-lovely downtown.

Be sure not to leave town without trying a slice of pie from the Blue Bonnet Cafe, which serves up some of the best pie in Texas!

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Marble Falls !

Port Isabel

Home to the second-smallest Texas State Park and the only lighthouse on the Texas coast that is open to the public, Port Isabel is a charming, small port town and a fun addition to a trip to the Gulf Coast!

Located right across the causeway from popular South Padre Island , Port Isabel is easy to visit.

Be sure to climb the historic lighthouse while you’re there!

Of all the lighthouses in Texas , Port Isabel’s is one of the only ones that you can climb.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Port Isabel !

The minuscule town of Driftwood, Texas may be barely a dot on the map–it’s home to less than 200 people–but most Texans have heard of it for exactly one reason.

Driftwood is the home to the legendary Salt Lick BBQ , one of the best barbecue joints in Texas!

Driftwood is also located just down the road from popular Dripping Springs, so with a little planning, you could even hit up the famous Hamilton Pool and Salt Lick BBQ in a single day.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Driftwood !

The self-proclaimed Cowboy Capital of the World can be found just an hour outside of San Antonio, and is definitely worth checking out when exploring the best small towns in Texas!

If you’re looking for a great place to take a horseback ride or spent a weekend at a dude ranch, Bandera is the Texas town for you.

Set east of Marfa and north of Big Bend National Park, this college town in West Texas is home to both Sul Ross State University and plenty of charm!

Featuring a historic downtown center, plenty of colorful street art, and unique attractions like the desk on Hancock Hill, Alpine is one of the best towns near Big Bend to set up a base during your time in the area.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Alpine !

Unlike the rest of these small towns in Texas, Gruene isn’t technically a town at all, but rather a historic district in New Braunfels –but that wasn’t always the case.

Once upon a time, Gruene was an independent town known for its cotton production.

Today, it is best known for Gruene Hall, a classic Texas dance hall that dates back to the 19th century and is the oldest continually operating dance hall in the Lone Star State!

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Gruene !

Boasting a downtown so delightful that it has charmed Hollywood producers for decades, Smithville is located less than an hour outside of Austin and makes a fun day trip!

Peruse the quaint downtown, stroll through the streets filled with carefully manicured, historic homes, and seek out filming locations for Hope Floats.

Don’t forget to stop by the railroad depot to visit historic train cars and to visit Smitty, the world’s largest gingerbread man!

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Smithville !

Port Aransas

As the largest town (relatively speaking–the population is just over 4,000 people) on Mustang Island, Port Aransas is known for nearby excellent fishing, and plenty of long, beautiful beaches on the Gulf of Mexico.

If you’re looking for a laid-back weekend at the beach, add Port Aransas to your list of small towns in Texas to visit!

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Port Aransas !

Schulenburg

Above all, Schulenburg is known for its collection of beautiful painted churches, each with a detailed interior that is a work of art in its own right.

Primarily built in the 19th century by German and Czech immigrants, these painted churches are one of Texas’ historical treasures and the biggest reason that Schulenburg is undoubtedly one of the best small towns in Texas to visit!

Map of the Best Small Towns in Texas

19 thoughts on “25+ Best Small Towns in Texas (+ Map to Find Them!)”

One shouldn’t leave Jefferson off this list, a great small town with a wonderful history. Brenham is a good choice as well. And Alpine. Just sayin.

We’ll definitely update this list with more towns eventually! Just published a post on Jefferson this week. :-)

Dublin was actually named for the Double N hotel that once stood near where the local Dairy Queen now stands. Eventually people started calling it Dublin and that’s where the Irish aspect came from. Technically no Irish history here though, although there are a few shops on the square that represent it. There are several good museums to visit here for rodeo buffs, golf enthisiasts, and Healthcare workers alike. The Dublin Dr Pepper Company is also pretty interesting, especially if you take a tour of the still running factory and museum. Lots of old Victorian homes line St Patrick Street and if you’re hungry for good food you’ve gotta stop by Granny Clark’s, one of the best hometown cafes you’ll ever eat at. Dublin is small, but it can be quite surprising if you look hard enough.

Do ElCampo Texas. Our popular is around 1,000 something

Which small town has the best employment options?

We’re all about travel and tourism here, so that’s not really our area of expertise. :-) Also depends heavily on your industry, of course–an agricultural town vs a university town vs a small town that is has a reasonable commute to a major city will all have wildly different options.

Canyon is bestnin panhandle

Check out San Saba

San Isidro, Tx off FM 1017

Corsicana Tx. Home of Collin Street Bakery. Fruit cakes.

Medina, Texas, home of Love Creek Orchards, where the apple pies are fresh and delicious. Beautiful scenery. About 13 miles northwest of Bandera, Texas, and adjacent to the lovely Medina River.

Check out Florence! Downtown Florence is growing and their are several fun spots to check out.

Salado is definitely a must see. The cute little shops, art galleries, antiques, a brewery, vineyards and a blown glass shop where you can watch and participate while the artists create beautiful glass art.

What about small towns with family homes. I hate looking into a place to visit and it’s all businesses and 1 to 2 bedroom apt. Towns should have family homes 3 – 4 bedrooms and lots of community events like festivals, town picnics, cafe’, book stores, parades.

I would like to suggest Fort Davis. An unincorporated area in Jeff Davis County, it is @ 30 minutes to either Alpine or Marfa. Surrounded by the Davis Mountains there are approximately 1400 ppl in the whole County. Major attractions include: Fort Davis National Historic Site, Davis Mountains State Park, Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center, McDonald Observatory and The Scenic Loop Drive. The small shops include a hat maker, fudge shop, wood carvings, museum and local artisans. There is a historic downtown walking or driving tour and annual events like their Coolest July 4th celebration.

A lot of towns on this list are not small. Eastland, with ol’ Rip and the walking art exhibit is a great choice.

I’ve been in search of a lady by the name of Helen and last name Reeves. I just wondered if it is you who I am writing to. She attended Sul Ross State University in Alpine and probably graduated around 1969. I lost track of her when I was drafted into the U. S. Army in 1969. I took my basic training at Ft. Bliss down El Paso way and ended in Vietnam from 1970 to the early part of 1971. I was discharged then and now I’m living here in Boerne, Texas. If you know of a Helen, please let me know. Thank you.

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VERY TRULY TEXAS

Best Small Towns in Texas (+ why you’ll want to visit them!)

Texas is known for its larger-than-life personality, but it’s the small towns in Texas that truly capture the heart and soul of the Lone Star State! You’ll find charming Main Streets, scenic natural beauty, rich history and culture, adorable cafes, and beautiful holiday events.

One of the best things about small towns in Texas is their unique character. Each town has its own distinct personality, shaped by its history, geography, and local culture. Gruene, a small town established by German farmers in the 1840s, is known for its historic dance hall, while Fredericksburg is a charming escape for foodies and history buffs in the heart of Texas Wine Country.

We live in smack dab in the middle of Texas and absolutely love to explore all the small towns surrounding us! My personal favorite currently is beautiful Wimberley with its artsy cowboy boot street décor and stunning swimming holes. If the holidays are near, then you will find me in festive Boerne or charming Johnson City!

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, there’s a small town (or three!) that’s sure to capture your heart. From scenic drives to local festivals, there’s always something happening in small towns in Texas!

Best Small Towns in Texas

Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor adventure, these small towns in Texas are perfect for next day trip or Texas road trip itinerary. We love each of them for their uniqueness, activities, tasty food, small town charm, and beautiful views!

You’ll find that many of these towns are in the beautiful Hill country, and that’s because it is a gorgeous area of Texas and Hill Country has so many things to do!

In no particular order….drum roll, please!

Fredericksburg

• Location on the Map
• Closest Big City: Austin (1.5 hours) + San Antonio (1 hour)
• Known for: German history + tasty peaches + wineries

While we often say “located in the heart of Texas Hill Country,” Fredericksburg is a quaint town actually located right in the middle of Hill Country. With it’s German heritage that is reflected in its architecture, food, and festivals, you can soak up some deep Texas history on a relaxing getaway here.

No doubt, Fredericksburg is one of the most popular small towns in Texas on our list. Everyone we know (including us!) has been there numerous times to wine taste, shop, relax in a beautiful hotel or cottage, and discover the history.

Stroll along Main Street, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, or explore the town’s historic sites, such as the Pioneer Museum and the National Museum of the Pacific War . Fredericksburg is also known for its wineries, which offer tastings and tours, as well as beautiful views.

During peach season, early to mid summer, the peach orchards around Fredericksburg are bursting with ripe fruit ready to offer you a juicy snack! Stop by a roadside stand for some fruit or homemade ice cream, or better yeast, head to Jenschke Orchards and pick your own !

Wildflower season is the most beautiful time of year to visit this Texas small town. The hills are covered in Texas bluebonnets , among other gorgeous blooms, so a scenic drive and a picnic is definitely in order. Willow City Loop is a popular path, and Wildseed Farms (with free entry!) will be bursting with color and photo spots. This is also the perfect time of year to explore the state parks near Fredericksburg , such as Enchanted Rock or Lyndon B. Johnson Historic Site.

>>> Read More about Fredericksburg:

• A Magical Guide to a Christmas in Fredericksburg
• Road Trip Guide from Austin to Fredericksburg
• Beautiful Flower Farms in Texas
• Location on the Ma p
• Closest Big City: Austin + San Antonio (1 hour away from both)
• Known for: Blue Hole + Jacob’s Well + natural beauty + charming downtown

Wimberley is a charming town also in the Texas Hill Country that is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. You can swim in the clear waters of Wimberley’s Blue Hole (this natural spring is our FAVORITE summer spot!), hike along the trails in Jacob’s Well Natural Area (currently closed for swimming), or browse the shops and galleries in the town square.

We also LOVE the nature paths along the water at Cypress Creek Nature Preserve ! This hidden gem is beautifully green and there are picnic tables available as well.

Wimberley is also home to the EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens , which hosts outdoor performances and events throughout the year. During the holiday season, they host the most beautiful Trail of Lights – one of the best things to do in Wimberley !

Johnson City

• Known for: LBJ history + peaches + waterfalls

Johnson City is a charming, picturesque small town that is one of my favorites on this list. Every time I visit or just drive through on beautiful Highway 71, it makes me smile!

In this Texas small town, you will find true hospitality and a rich historical legacy. The rolling hills and clear blue skies provide a stunning backdrop to a town that has managed to preserve its small-town charm . Quaint, locally-owned shops line Main Street with unique treasures and local flavors. The town is also home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park which pays tribute to one of America’s most notable presidents.

Johnson City’s natural beauty, with the Pedernales River and Falls nearby provides hiking, bird-watching, swimming, and wildlife. Historic oak trees that grace the town square and light up during the holidays as Johnson City becomes the “ Twinkliest Town in Texas .”

Children will love the interactive Science Mill museum and don’t ever forget to come by during peach season for a box fresh from the peach picking farm !

• Closest Big City: Dallas (three hours away)
• Known for: historical homes + museums + beautiful lake

Located in East Texas, Jefferson is a charming, historic town that was once a bustling river port . You can take a stroll through the historic downtown area, which is home to over 70 historic buildings. The town is also has several museums, including the Jefferson Historical Museum and the Museum of Measurement & Time .

Pop into the General Store for some old-fashioned candy or a drink from the soda fountain. Plan to lodge at a bed and breakfast in one of the beautifully restored Victorian mansions.

Jefferson is located near Caddo Lake which is a great place to head if you love the outdoors. You can take a guided boat tour of the lake, go fishing, or explore the surrounding wetlands on foot. Keep your eye out for alligators – yes, really!

• Closest Big City: San Antonio (1 hour away)
• Known for: History + Dance Hall + Proximity to the River

Gruene (pronounced “green,” you’re welcome :))is a small historic district located in New Braunfels. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town was founded in the 1800s and was once a thriving cotton-producing community.

Today, you can take a stroll through the historic district, which is home to several restored buildings, including the Gruene Hall, which is the oldest dance hall in Texas. If live music is your jam, definitely head to Gruene where you can find it 7 days of the week.

In addition to its historic district, Gruene is also known for its wineries, which offer tastings and tours. You can also explore the the opportunity for Guadalupe River tubing , which is a popular spot and Texas bucket list activity!

• Closest Big City: Dallas (1.5 hours away)
• Known for: history + lake activities

Located southwest of Fort Worth, Granbury is a small town that is known for its historic downtown area. Take a stroll down the town’s main street, which is lined with historic buildings and shops . The town is also home to several museums, including the Hood County Jail Museum , which is housed in a historic jail that was built in 1885.

Nearby Lake Granbury is a popular spot for boating and fishing. You can also take a scenic drive through the nearby Brazos River Valley and soak up the stunning views and rugged terrain.

• Closest Big City: San Antonio ( 1 hour)
• Known for: cowboys + dude ranches + nature

Known as the “ Cowboy Capital of the World ,” Bandera is a great destination for those who love horseback riding and other Western-themed activities. For a extra special stay, book a couple of nights at a dude ranch and immerse yourselves in life on the ranch from sun up to sun down with horses, delicious, campfire meals, archery, lasso lessons, and more.

The town is surrounded by beautiful hill country, making it a great place to hike, bike, or go on a scenic drive. The nearby Medina River offers a spot to kayak, tube, and fish, while the Hill Country State Natural Area is a beautiful state park in Hill Country for camping and hiking.

• Closest Big City: Austin (30 minutes)
• Known for: pine trees + state parks + charming downtown

Located just 30 minutes from Austin, Bastrop is a charming small town that offers plenty of outdoor activities. The town is surrounded by the beautiful Bastrop State Park , which is home to miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing and camping. This is the best place to see pine trees in the Central Texas area – my favorite for a winter hike!

The Colorado River runs through town, offering opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The town is also home to the Lost Pines Golf Club , which is considered one of the best courses in the state.

For an amazing place to stay we highly recommend a stay at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa in Bastrop. This resort is less than an hour from our hometown, but is our favorite getaway spot at a family resort near Austin ! From nightly s’mores to a lazy river and water slide to daily activities and complimentary bikes, this is a great spot to get out in to the country with just a few minutes’ drive from the city.

• Closest Big City: Austin (1 hour)
• Known for: caverns + lakes + bluebonnets

Burnet is a Texas small town that is a great destination for those that love nature and everything there is outdoors. The town is not only home to one state park, but two. Inks Lake State Park is beautifully blue with opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, and swimming. The nearby Longhorn Cavern State Park is a great place to explore underground caves and rock formations.

Check out Highland Lakes Air Museum which houses a collection of vintage aircraft. For a taste of Texas life years ago, head to Fort Croghan for their history museum and to explore their historic cabins and property.

Burnet is also the official Bluebonnet Capital of Texas. I highly recommend visiting in April when the bluebonnets are at peak and Burnet is hosting their annual Bluebonnet Festival !

>> Read More about Burnet:

• Things to Do in Burnet
• Texas State Parks in Hill Country

Marble Falls

• Known for: beautiful lake + adorable downtown + holiday fun

Marble Falls is a charming town that we drive to and through often. This gem attracts visitors with its warm Texan hospitality and a ton of of activities that showcase the beauty of this picturesque town.

Whether you’re strolling along the banks of the serene Lake Marble Falls, eating freshly baked pie at the iconic Bluebonnet Café, or exploring the historic Main Street lined with boutique shops and quaint cafes, Marble Falls offers a beautiful blend of nature and culture.

Falls on the Colorado River is an informative museum that you will give you some background on the history of the town. Wine enthusiasts can savor the local wineries and vineyards that dot the surrounding landscape.

When it comes to Texas Christmas towns , Marble Falls is one of the best! Their holiday calendar is loaded with merry activities from ice sculpting to lights to ugly sweater contests.

>> Read More about Marble Falls:

• Sweet Things to do in Marble Falls
• Marble Falls Christmas Lights

Port Aransas

• Closest Big City: San Antonio ( 2.5 hours)
• Known for: beaches + fishing + seafood + golf carts

Along the Texas Gulf Coast, is beautiful Port Aransas – one of our very favorite Texas beach towns . You may hear this coastal small town referred to as “Port A” by the Texans who know and love it well.

You’ll find beautiful beaches that are perfect for unwinding, swimming, and even some fishing by boat or from the shore. If you’ve ever dreamed of conquering the waves, Port Aransas is the perfect place to take surf lessons near the popular pier.

Whitecap Beach is our family favorite for some great boogie boarding and soft sand ( we stayed in this condo nearby on our last trip over Memorial Day- it was fantastic!).

A short drive down the island will bring you to the majestic Padre Island National Seashore , a sprawling stretch of natural beauty, where you can observe sea turtles, go birdwatching, and explore the dunes. A few times a year, typically summer months, you can even observe a sea turtle release at sunrise.

To immerse yourself fully in the island’s charm, rent a golf cart in Port Aransas . It’s the town’s unofficial mode of transportation, and check out the colorful beach town streets cute boutiques, art galleries, souvenir shopping, and seafood shacks that offer the freshest catch of the day.

• Closest Big City: San Antonio (1/2 hour)
• Known for: caverns + shopping + holiday fun

Boerne is a captivating small town just north of San Antonio that is filled to the brim with charm and sweetness. With its historic Main Street, you’ll find boutique shops, art galleries, and tasty restaurants, making it perfect for an afternoon of browsing.

The Cibolo Nature Center and Herff Farm offer the perfect place to explore for nature lovers, with hiking trails, wildlife observation, and educational programs that highlight the region’s natural beauty. Don’t miss a visit to Cave Without Name and Cascade Caverns to explore the stunning underground formations.

Boerne also hosts a variety of amazing annual events, like the Hill Country Mile Rod Run, where classic cars line the streets, and the charming Dickens on Main, a festive Boerne Christmas celebration that transports you back to the Victorian era with food, entertainment, costumes, and music.

• Closest Big City: San Antonio (1.5 hours)
• Known for: beautiful river + tubing + state parks

Concan is a hidden gem with a tiny population, but incredible beauty. With its breathtaking Frio River winding through the town, it’s a a great spot for outdoor activities and nature lovers. Spend your days tubing or kayaking down the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax by the riverbanks and soak up the sun.

Garner State Parkoffers hiking trails, camping spots, and evening dances under the stars during the summer. Concan is also known for the popular Neal’s Lodges, a family-owned and operated retreat that has welcomed generations of visitors to its rustic cabins and provides easy access to the area’s natural beauty. C

Come enjoy the vibrant local music scene, experiencing the annual Fourth of July fireworks display, epic summer floating the Frio , or mouthwatering BBQ at the various local eateries.

• Closest Big City: Dallas (1 hour)
• Known for: farms + kolaches + Czech history

The Texas small town of West is a warm and welcoming place with a taste of Czech culture, small-town charm, and true farm life.

One of the town’s most cherished highlights is the iconic Slovacek’s West Bakery, where the aroma of freshly baked kolaches, a Czech pastry delight, fills the air. These treats, a nod to the town’s Czech heritage, are a must-try, and you’ll find an array of flavors to choose from. If you want to bakery hop – we highly recommend it! – you’ll also love Gerik’s Ole Czech Bakery & Deli, West Donuts & Kolaches Shop, and Oak Street Bakery.

As you stroll through the town, don’t miss a short drive to Western Belle Farm , a picturesque farm that showcases the beauty of the Texan countryside. Here, you can enjoy hayrides, explore their friendly petting zoo, take plenty of photos at their themed areas, travel the corn maze, try the zipline, and more. Pick your own flowers and strawberries in the spring and pumpkins in the fall.

• Closest Big City: Austin (1.5 hours)
• Known for: history + live music

Luckenbach, population 3, wraps up this list of the best small towns in Texas. Yep, Luckenbach is the tiniest of towns but it packs a big punch! Stop by the old post office that that still hosts regular events with live music, dancing, and a rich history of the area.

Most afternoons, and weekend evenings, you’ll find a great line up of musicians and a relaxing good time under the oak trees. Check out their event calendar here .

Texas Small Town Festivals and Events

Texas is known for its vibrant and unique festivals, but many people don’t know about the charming small-town festivals that take place all around the Lone Star State. Here are some of the most popular small-town festivals in Texas.

Texas Blueberry Festival

The Texas Blueberry Festival is held annually in Nacogdoches, Texas, in the heart of the East Texas Piney Woods. This festival, which is usually held in June, celebrates the blueberry harvest with a variety of activities for the whole family. Visitors can enjoy live music, a car show, a 5K run, a pet parade, and more. Of course, there are also plenty of blueberries to sample, including blueberry ice cream, blueberry pancakes, and blueberry lemonade – seriously delicious!

Texas Mushroom Festival

The Texas Mushroom Festival is held annually in Madisonville, Texas, in October. This festival celebrates the unique and delicious mushrooms that grow in the area. You can enjoy a variety of mushroom-themed activities, including a mushroom cook-off, a mushroom-growing workshop, and a mushroom hunt. There are also plenty of other activities for the whole family, including live music, a carnival, and a parade.

Texas Rose Festival

The Texas Rose Festival is held annually in Tyler, Texas, in October. This festival celebrates the beautiful roses that grow in the area, and visitors can enjoy a variety of rose-themed activities, including a rose show, a rose parade, and a rose garden tour. There are also plenty of other activities for the whole family, including live music, a carnival, and a craft fair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some affordable small towns in texas.

Texas has a plethora of affordable small towns that offer a great quality of life without breaking the bank. Some of the most affordable small towns in Texas include Pecos, Monahans, and Kermit. These towns have a low cost of living, affordable housing options, and plenty of amenities to make life comfortable.

What are the best small towns to retire in Texas?

Texas is a great place to retire, and there are plenty of small towns that offer a great quality of life for retirees. Some of the best small towns to retire in Texas include Fredericksburg, Georgetown, and Boerne. These towns have a low cost of living, plenty of amenities, and a relaxed pace of life that is perfect for retirees.

What are some underrated small towns in Texas?

Texas has many small towns that are underrated and often overlooked by visitors. Some of the most underrated small towns in Texas include Burnet, Wimberley, and Granbury. These towns offer a unique charm, beautiful scenery, and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

What are the best small towns in central Texas?

Central Texas is home to many charming small towns that offer a unique Texas experience. Some of the best small towns in central Texas include Fredericksburg, Wimberley, and New Braunfels. These towns offer beautiful scenery, great food, and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

What are some small towns near Dallas, Texas?

If you’re looking for small towns near Dallas, Texas, you won’t have to look far. Some of the best small towns near Dallas include McKinney, Grapevine, and Denton. These towns offer a relaxed pace of life, great food, and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

What are some good small towns in Texas to explore in winter?

Winter is a great time to explore small towns in Texas, and there are plenty of towns that offer a unique winter experience. Some of the best small towns in Texas to explore in winter include Fredericksburg, Wimberley, and Boerne. These towns offer beautiful scenery, great food, and plenty of winter activities to keep visitors entertained. Grapevine is the perfect small town for Christmas festivities.

Sierra Schmidt is the founder of Very Truly Texas as well as the lead writer and photographer. She is a Texas local living near Austin in the beautiful Texas Hill Country and exploring every inch of this vast state.

She provides detailed itineraries, inspiring images, and hidden gems to encourage locals and visitors to discover their own next adventure in the great state of Texas!

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15 Texas Small Towns Voted Most Picturesque In America

These 15 Texas small towns were voted the most picturesque small towns in America, AND #1 is in Texas! 

There is no shortage of  Texas small towns. It is fantastic that fifteen small towns in Texas made the list of 120 Most Picturesque Small Towns in America. And the #1 Most Picturesque Small Town in America is in Texas! Yep, according to a recent poll (2023), of the 120 picturesque small towns in America, 15 are in Texas. I bet you’re not surprised by the small town that got number one! But don’t skip the other ones!

Travel experts with North Carolina Travel Guides compared 500 small towns in the United States by studying search trends, the photos most shared by photographers, and the photos posted by the general public. I put the list in reversed order. No skipping down to #1!

So, if you’re looking to vacation to or in Texas and love small towns, you may want to consider one of these Texas destinations. I have to agree with most. And there’s one small town I’ve never heard of.

Fifteen Most Picturesque Texas Small Towns

Travelers wanting to come to Texas for a weekend getaway or a vacation need to take note of these small towns – as they are pretty special to Texas Travel Talk …and, I guess, to America, too!

An editor once told me that a town with a population of 25,000 or less is considered small. Well, you’ll see a few small towns here having more. We will see a rise in small-town populations very soon as more people find them to offer so much that the “big cities” don’t.

15. Port Aransas (3,478)

Known for its beautiful beaches, Port Aransas is a coastal town at the tip of Mustang Island on the Texas Gulf Coast. It is also known as the “Fishing Capital of Texas.” I highly recommend vacationing here if catching a “big one” is your goal! Several shops, boutiques, and studios line the streets of downtown Port Aransas.

Port Aransas is also a popular spring break destination. Most Texas spring breakers go around early March to the end of March – FYI.

14. Driftwood (87)

Is Driftwood part of Dripping Springs? Well, I heard it was, then now I’m reading it’s not and that it’s its own town with a different zip code. Either way, Driftwood is a very quaint and tiny town to visit with much charm. Driftwood in the heart of the Hill Country is 40 minutes from Austin, under two hours from San Antonio, and a hop, skip, and a jump from Dripping Springs.

This small town houses two places I’m very fond of: Fall Creek Vineyards and Salt Lick BBQ. Both sites are across the street from one another and are must-visits when in the area. If going to Salt Lick for dinner – get there early or wait in a long line – it’s that good, and the place inside and out is even more quaint. You can watch them make the barbeque – it’s a great Insta-worthy photo op.

13. Round Top (99)

Round Top, Texas, is a charming little town located just an hour southeast of Austin. The city is known for its historic downtown area and annual Round Top Antiques Festival three times a year, which draws visitors from all over to see the latest vintage decor, fine antiques, collectibles, and people’s treasures and junk! I can already tell you that there are more antiques in this small town than there are people – so you probably should love antiques if you want to visit here!

Granbury 4th of July Celebration. Photo Credit: Visit Granbury

12. Granbury (12,884) 

Granbury is a lovely small town to visit, and its town square is in the center of it all. Many things happen on the square, providing locals and visitors places to eat, shop, and gather. If you like lake water and a sandy beach, Lake Granbury is accessible from the square. Granbury has many BnBs, lakefront homes for rent, and more special places to stay.

NEW: Granbury is now the “Celebration Capital of Texas.” It also won Best Historic Small Town In America by USA Today in 2019, 2020 & 2021.

11. Wimberley (2,881)

Wimberley is a small town near the bottom of the Texas Hill Country off I-35 past Austin. It’s best known for its picturesque setting and outdoor activities. The town is located along the Blanco River, which offers plenty of opportunities to go rafting or kayaking in the summer months. It’s also home to several wineries and breweries where you can enjoy wine tastings or beer sampling. For an outdoor experience, try bike riding the many trails – you’ll have your choice because there are so many.

Stay tuned as I write a full article on Wimberley, Texas, and everything you can do outside.

10. Gruene (part of New Braunfels)

Gruene (pronounced ‘green’) is a small New Braunfels, Texas town. It’s known for its historic district, unique shops, Gruene Hall, and German heritage from the original settlers who came from Germany in the 1840s. Though Gruene should be its own tiny town (in my opinion), I’m not sure anyone lives there. But the Guadalupe River’s views are worth taking that short drive to see. So are the many upscale restaurants. The whole town is walking distance –park, walk, shop, eat, drink, then do it all over again.

9. Brenham (19,477)

Brenham is a charming small town in Washington County, Texas. The town is known for its annual Texas Bluebonnet Festival , held every April since 1954 and named after the state flower that blooms throughout central Texas during this time of year.

Blue Bell Creamery is in Brenham, too. It’s a huge draw to the town with its $1 scoop of ice cream. Open during the week only.

8. Rockport (11,092)

Rockport is a small town on the Texas Coast that offers unmatched beach beauty and fun things to do year-round. The heart of this charming coastal community is its waterfront district, where visitors can enjoy shopping in boutiques, dining at fine restaurants, or watching live music at one of several outdoor cafés.

The Rockport/Fulton area offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation, including kayaking and bird-watching. In addition to its many natural attractions, Rockport has become known for its art scene: The Arthouse at Rockport Center for the Arts houses more than 200 works by local artists each year; you’ll also find galleries featuring paintings from around the world as well as sculptures crafted from everything from driftwood to chandeliers made from antlers!

7. Bandera (876)

Bandera is a small town in Texas known for its cowboy culture. In fact, Bandera is the “Cowboy Capital of the World’ (not just Texas).

Today, Bandera is known as one of the top destinations in Texas for family vacations, dude ranches, guest ranches, and outdoor adventures like riding horses!

6. San Elizario (10,067)

San Elizario is less than an hour from El Paso but feels like another world. For most of us who haven’t heard of this small town, it’s a hidden gem with unique and beautiful architecture dating back to the 1800s. San Elizario is also one of the oldest towns in Texas.

I read that the food is terrific, but I wouldn’t know because this is a town I’ve never heard of. But for it to be on the list, it’s worth a visit, especially if you’re in the El Paso area.

5. Dripping Springs (8,253)

This town houses plenty. It’s a nature lover’s dream. Hamilton Pool Preserve, Westcave Discovery Center, and the Texas Hill Country Olive Co. are just three of the places I recommend. And, if you like to drink, there are wineries, breweries, and distillers in town – plenty to keep you happy! (Don’t drink buzzed).

Dripping Springs is known as the Gateway to the Hill Country from Austin, Texas,  and the scenic drive pays off. There are also plenty of live music venues all over town. Camp Lucy is one of my favorite places to stay. It is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a nice dinner in its on-site restaurant.

4. West (2,618)

West, Texas, is located near Waco off I-35 (north of Austin). It’s known for its strong sense of community and tight-knit neighborhoods. Look for the Slovacek’s sign off the highway, and you’ll know you’re there.

The town has small businesses, including restaurants and coffee shops. Locals love their town. Here is what they had to say. “It’s not just our weather and water, nor our friendly neighbors and good schools. It’s not even just our strong sense of community (we’ve got a saying around here: ‘This town looks out for its own’). No, I think what really makes West so special is something more intangible: it feels like home.”

3. Boerne (21,966)

If you’re looking for a fantastic day trip from San Antonio, look no further than Boerne, Texas. This small-town charmer is south of Kerrville and Comfort on Hwy 10 and only a 25-minute drive north of the big city. It’s also 4 hours from the Fort Worth/Dallas area, making it a perfect weekend trip.

The Cibolo Creek is a true Hill Country experience and one of my favorite places to visit. Bring a picnic or hang out on one of the benches and watch the ducks paddle their way down the creek. Walk around the creek to enjoy the view of trees, shops, flowers, and more.

Shop the Hill Country Mile, aka Main Street, for everything under the sun. It may take more than one day to see everything – just FYI.

2. Nacogdoches (31,992)

This town in East Texas has a lot to offer, from historic buildings to its picturesque downtown area to being the oldest town in Texas with a rich Texas history. There are many great shops and restaurants to explore and some historical buildings that date back to the early 1900s. Be sure to visit the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University for photo ops and the many parks and gardens around town.

This small Texas town is the most picturesque destination in America. 

Drum roll, please.

1. Fredericksburg (11,631)

Have you ever heard of Fredericksburg, Texas? If not, it’s time to get acquainted. There’s a reason Fredericksburg has been voted #1 most picturesque small town in America. And it’s hard not to fall in love with this charming town as soon as you arrive.

One of the most popular things and the primary reason many flock to Fredericksburg is to stroll through its charming downtown area filled with shops, boutiques, restaurants, antique stores, wine-tasting rooms, and more! Fredericksburg, TX, also made our list of the 12 most charming Christmas towns in Texas .

Fredericksburg is located in the Texas Hill Country and is known for its German heritage, architectural style, and vineyards. It’s also home to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a beautiful granite mountain that offers views of the surrounding natural landscape. I’ll be going there soon (for the first time).

P.S. I’ll be on my way to Fredericksburg later this month (September 2023) and will have so many photos and more information about this precious town, so stay tuned for my article sometime first of October.

Update: I’ve written two articles on Fredericksburg since my visit in September. Please find the readings here.

26 Things To Do In Fredericksburg, TX

Things To Do In Fredericksburg For The Holidays

____________________________________

Now, it’s your turn. If you’ve lived in or visited one of these towns, please take a minute to rate it on a scale of 1-10 (one being the least picturesque and 10 being the most dramatic), just like it’s been done here. If you think a small town in Texas should be on this list, let us know that, too!

Source: North Carolina Travel Guides

About Kim Croisant

Kim Croisant is a freelance writer and owner/writer at Texas Travel Talk and a native Texan living north of Fort Worth. When not writing about travel destinations (not just in Texas), restaurants, and hotels, she is most likely juggling family life, caring for her mother, and raising her grandson. She loves red wine, chips & dip, and travel magazines. Follow her on Instagram @texastraveltalk.

September 7, 2023 at 11:58 pm

Concerning San Elizario, do you mean the El Paso area and not the San Antonio area?

September 8, 2023 at 7:26 am

Thank you, Jay for catching that. I have changed it to El Paso!!

September 11, 2023 at 6:23 pm

Blanco, Texas, is a fantastic little town that does not get enough recognition. It has the original limestone County Court house on the square, the Blanco River and Blanco State Park right in town. There’s a quilting shop, great BBQ, terrific donut store, and other restaurants and shops on the square. It’s got an adorable small Town Park with a brief walking trail, which is beautiful at Chistmas, and it’s within half an hour of Wimberley, Johnson City or Dripping Springs, or an hour to Fredericksburg.

September 12, 2023 at 7:51 am

I certainly agree with you and that’s why I wrote a dedicated article about Blanco. You can read it here. https://texastraveltalk.com/best-of-blanco-texas/

Thank you for your comment and concern.

September 13, 2023 at 8:34 am

Please note that Brenham is in Washington County, not in Austin County.

September 13, 2023 at 8:53 am

You’re right, Debbie – thanks for bringing that to my attention. It’s changed.

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Central Texas: Everything You Need to Know

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Also known as the Lone Star State, Texas is famous for various things, making it one of the best spots to visit. 

When you visit Texas, you have a chance to try the best chili and Tex-Mex dishes, you can enjoy a lively sports culture, and there are many places where you can afford to buy a home. 

And visiting Central Texas is the best way to explore the real essence of the State. 

Central Texas is the space that surrounds Austin and is home to 1.2 million people, who represent about 4.3% of the state’s population. 

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Central Texas from a resident. So, let’s dive in. 

What Is Central Texas?

Central Texas is a region that surrounds Austin, the capital city of the Texas State. The area is bordered by Bryan, Hillsboro, San Marcos, and San Saba. 

It includes Texas Hill Country and Greater Austin, a growing economic hub. It’s home to some of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in Texas and the whole US. 

Central Texas is made up of 20 counties and stretches over an area of 17,400 square miles. Due to its increasing popularity, the region’s population increased by 10.7%. 

However, between 2010 and 2019, the population’s growth rate slightly declined, with Brazos and Bell’s higher-than-average rates of 17.6% and 17% , respectively. 

Facts About Central Texas

Here are some interesting facts about Central Texas:

• Location: Central Texas is located right in the middle of Texas, surrounding Austin. 
• Counties: There are 20 counties in Central Texas. The most populated one is Travis County, with a population of 1.1 million people. 
• Towns: There are several towns in Central Texas. Some of the most famous ones are Austin, Round Rock, Waco, Wimberley, and Dripping Springs. 
• Population: In 2019, the population estimate was 1.2 million people. The least populated town is Luckenbach. 
• Climate: It’s warm and dry most of the year. The summers are hot and the winters are cold and windy. 

Spring and fall are warm transitional periods, and Central Texas receives about 35.5 inches of rainfall yearly. Most of this rain falls in May, June, and October. 

• Famous People: Several people were born and raised in Central Texas before becoming famous worldwide. These include Farrah Fawcett, Ethan Hawke, Jamie Foxx, Ciara, Adrian Grenier, Selena Gomez, and Dakota Johnson. 
• Education: Central Texas College is located in Killeen, and it’s an open-admission community college. The NCTC, or North Central Texas College, is the oldest 2-year college in the region, as it was founded in 1924. 

Who Lives in Central Texas?

Many people consider moving to Central Texas because it’s one of the best places to start a family and buy a home. But that’s not all. 

There are actually several celebrities who decided to move to Central Texas and call it home. 

James Van Der Beek

After becoming a star in Dawson’s Creek, the actor took a break from acting. He thought that moving to Central Texas would be better for his family, so he decided to leave LA and move to live near Austin in 2020. 

Van Der Beek liked the move because he got to spend much outdoor time with his six children. He reported that playing together helped him bond with them. 

Business magnate, entrepreneur, and investor Elon Musk started spending more time in Texas in 2020. The owner of Tesla and SpaceX was voted the second richest man in 2023 , with a net worth of $180 billion. 

Rumor has it that Musk is moving to Central Texas to build his version of Texas Utopia along the Colorado River. He has also built a manufacturing and warehouse facility in Bastrop County and plans to expand it by offering accommodation to his employees. 

James Marsden

Although born in Oklahoma, the American actor, singer, and voice actor decided to move to Austin, Texas, with his family. He moved in 2020 and explained that he liked the region and had many friends there. 

Marsden also explained that being closer to his family in Oklahoma made the decision easier. It was definitely better than living in California. 

What Is Central Texas Famous For?

Central Texas is the home of cowboys and cowgirls. As a result, it will be the best place to visit and even relocate if you’re fond of this culture. 

You might not spot these adventurous people in the big cities, but you can see them riding on their horses near the highways. 

Texas is the home of many country musicians as well, and you can listen to country music wherever you go. 

In addition to the delicious Tex-Mex dishes, many people enjoy the fantastic landscape of Hill Country and its rolling hills. The rolling hills represent gently sloped low hills, where the landscape changes from hills to grassland. 

Although many people think of barren deserts when they think of Texas, this isn’t true for Central Texas. It has many landscape regions, including grasslands, woodlands, hills, and deserts. 

Moreover, there are lots of rivers and lakes in the region. 

What Should You Do Before Moving to Central Texas?

As of April 2023, studies show that the average home price in Central Texas has decreased by 11% to $565,500 . 

This is a lot lower than the average price a family would pay in California, where a home costs an average of $737,900 , or in Washington, D.C., where it costs around $650,000 . 

About 1 million people moved to Central Texas between 2010 and 2017, so they definitely saw something they liked about the region. 

Yet, there are a few things you need to know before moving to Central Texas. 

Population Diversity

Central Texas is one of the most diverse regions in the state. Only about half of the population is white. The rest are Hispanic or Latinos, African Americans, or Asians. 

About 5% of the region’s population comprises Native American Indians, and about 3% belong to other races like Middle Eastern. 

Many Native Hawaiians or Pacific Islanders also live in the region. 

Due to this fantastic diversity, you should expect to experience different cultures and cuisines once you move to the region. 

Some cities and towns have a prominent Mexican heritage, while others have a German one. You’ll be able to enjoy Spanish, Mexican, and German food, and you’ll see people celebrating various festivals on the streets. 

Warm Weather

The weather is usually hot all around Texas, but it’s warmer in Central Texas during summer due to the winds blowing from the west. 

The western region of Central Texas is the hottest and most arid, while the southern part is almost tropical, with humid winds blowing from the Gulf of Mexico. 

So, if you’re locating to Central Texas, you should expect the weather to be hot almost all year. 

This can help you understand what life will be like and the type of vegetables you can grow in your garden. 

You can expect a little cold in winter, but it doesn’t last much. 

Amazing Home Value

Despite having affordable housing prices, the real estate market is growing steadily in Central Texas. 

In some towns of Central Texas, the average home price can be around $200,000 — almost one-third of what you can pay for a similar property in another state. 

However, due to the region’s increasing popularity, many people are considering relocating. As a result, you can sell your property for a fantastic price. 

Different-Sized Towns

Central Texas was previously known for the small-town feel that people loved when they moved out of the big cities. 

So, if you’re trying to settle and wish to start a family in a hassle-free environment, you’ll definitely find more than one town to call home. 

But this is only true for some cities and towns in the region. 

Middle and big-sized towns are growing in Central Texas, with some of the biggest names in the economics and manufacturing worlds building new offices and factories in the region. 

If you and your family are interested in small-town living, you can try relocating to New Braunfels or San Marcos. However, moving to Austin or San Antonio would make more sense if you live to wish in a cultural hub and a busy metropolitan area. 

Enjoy the Natural Beauty

Central Texas is the right place for nature lovers. It has a diverse landscape and many natural wonders you’d be happy to explore and see while spending time in the region. 

On top of the list sits the rolling hills and grassy lands of Hill Country. You can also see rivers and lakes like Lake Travis. 

Getting Around Central Texas

There are multiple ways to explore Central Texas if you’re coming for a visit or have decided to relocate to the region. 

If you’re fond of walking, Central Texas won’t disappoint you. The roads are safe, and people are friendly, so they’ll give you a hand if you’re lost. 

Hiking lovers will find a lot of trails to explore. The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake is one of the best, as it’s a 10-mile hiking and biking trail you can enjoy while indulging in the beauty of the lake. 

This is also an excellent chance to study the water birds and other animals that live near the lake. 

Public Transportation

This will be the best way to get around Central Texas if you don’t own a car or want an eco-friendly transportation option. 

The 32-mile railway is an excellent commuting option, whether you want to explore different parts of the region or go to work. 

You can also visit the Hills Country Transit District website to find the correct bus route to take you to your destination. However, the public transportation system isn’t that extensive. 

The interstate highway system in Texas covers 3,239.7 miles, with some highways running through the central region. 

The speed limit on multi-lane highways is 70 miles per hour, but it’s only 60 miles per hour on two-lane undivided roads. 

You can find plenty of gas stations and other stops while driving. But finding a parking spot can be a hassle, and you should pay attention to the traffic. 

Top Things to Do in Central Texas

If you’ve just moved to Central Texas or are planning for a short visit, don’t worry. There are plenty of activities that you can enjoy alone or with your friends and family to make your visit one of a kind. 

Go to the Hidden Falls Adventure Park

You shouldn’t miss this park if you’re looking for an excellent adventure spot. Regardless of your fitness level, you can find something interesting. 

The park features off-road trails for bike lovers, hiking trails, a waterfall, and exciting RV and camping sites. 

Enjoy the National Museum of the Pacific War

This place should be on the list of every history lover, as it tells the incredible story of the Pacific War that took part in World War II. The museum was established in 1969 and shows many artifacts and exhibits from this era. 

You can see some war machinery on display, in addition to personal letters written by soldiers, some of their personal belongings, and photographs. 

Visit Longneck Manor

Animal lovers are in for a treat if they decide to visit Central Texas. You can spend the night in your Giraffe Suite and get visited by one of the three giraffes that live on the conservation. 

The facility is booked until 2024, but more suites are to be built in the future, so you might be able to reserve a spot. 

Visitors can enjoy the luxurious amenities and feed the giraffes by hand. 

Climb the Enchanted Rock

This pink granite rock is not to be missed as it lies in the center of Texas Hills Country. Research shows that this rock formed about 1.1 billion years ago when molten magma cooled to create this beautiful formation. 

You can hike, rock climb, study birds, or stargaze at the site. 

Spend Time at AGE of Central Texas

AGE of Central Texas is a nonprofit organization that helps residents and visitors care for elderly family members. 

The foundation serves people as they age, providing healthcare and entertaining activities contributing to their physical and mental well-being. 

If you care for an older adult, you can contact the organization to assist you in securing some medical assistance equipment. It also provides emotional and educational support during early memory loss stages. 

Visit the Waco Mammoth National Monument

You can visit the Waco Mammoth National Monument to learn more about our planet and how animals lived thousands of years ago. 

You can see the fossils of 24 Columbian mammoths and other animals that lived in the region. Most of the fossils are left where they were initially found. 

There’s much to see and enjoy if you ever visit Central Texas. Many people consider this one of the best spots to start a family, thanks to the affordable housing prices. 

The region’s diversity is a major attraction, as you can find the right spot for you whether you’re looking for a small town to settle in or a metropolitan area to work. 

Moreover, there are unique attractions and cool spots to visit, so you’ll never get bored. 

Robert is a native Texan writer for TexasWalkabout, passionate about Texas culture and food, wearing cowboy boots daily. He interviews local pitmasters and chefs, tastes and reviews innovative dishes, and explores hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Graduating magna cum laude in Cyber Security from the University of Texas at San Antonio , Robert excels academically and professionally while also being knowledgeable in Texas history and culture. After living in Texas for over 28 years, he provides first-hand and trustworthy information for all your Texas needs!

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The 8 Best Small Towns in Texas

From desert art installations to kayak trips through the bayou, here's where to enjoy small-town charm in Texas.

With more than 268,000 square miles, Texas offers lots of room to roam. Seven different regions mean diverse topography abounds, including rolling hills, grasslands, and natural springs in beloved Hill Country; vast canyons and desert mountains in the Big Bend area; hundreds of miles of coastline, as well as estuaries and barrier islands on the Gulf Coast; and towering pine forests that mingle with swamps in the Piney Woods.

Throughout the state, small-town life still largely exists between buzzing metropolises. 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. Here are eight of the best small towns in Texas.

Luana Rigolli / Getty Images

In far West Texas, between the Davis Mountains and Big Bend, lies Marfa. Known as the filming location for the James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor movie "Giant" and the mysterious Marfa Lights , this small town offers plenty to see and do. 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. Nearby, the Ayn Foundation includes works by Andy Warhol, while numerous other galleries in town create an art paradise. 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 Skóra Marfa . Meanwhile, thrill seekers can take to the sky with Marfa Gliders for a flight over the Marfa Plateau.

Roberto Galan / Getty Images

Between Austin and San Antonio , you'll find Wimberley, a nature lover's Eden. Depending on whether or not the natural aquifer has enough water that year — check the website before you go — you can take a dip at Jacob's Well Natural Area , a swimming hole created from an artesian spring and underground cave system. 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. Road warriors will enjoy driving along the Devil's Backbone , a scenic highway that runs through Wimberley and the surrounding towns. For a panoramic view above Wimberley, climb 218 steps to the top of Old Baldy (Prayer Mountain) for spectacular Hill Country views. Looking for some culture? Head to town for boutique shopping, restaurants, art galleries, and live music.

For history and charm, this pre-Civil War town in East Texas is just the ticket. Jefferson is home to nearly 100 historical landmarks, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Local self-guided walking tours show off historic homes, churches, and buildings throughout the town, including The Excelsior House Hotel and the Jefferson Carnegie Library , the latter of which was funded by American industrialist and steel magnate Andrew Carnegie. Stop by the Jefferson General Store , built in the 1860s, for old-fashioned candy and root beer floats, or the Jefferson Historical Museum , housed in the former federal courthouse and post office. Here, you'll see a magnolia tree that was planted as a seedling by former first lady Lady Bird Johnson. The seedling originated from a tree on the White House lawn that was planted when former President Andrew Jackson was in office. For outdoor pursuits, paddle through bayous at Caddo Lake State Park , a 20-minute drive east.

Known as the Cowboy Capital of the World, Bandera was a staging area for some of the last major cattle drives of the late 1800s — the Great Western Cattle Trail ran from here to Dodge City, Kansas, in its heyday. Home to multiple dude ranches, Bandera is the perfect place to learn how to be a cowboy or cowgirl. At Dixie Dude Ranch , try horseback riding, enjoy a campfire sing-along, or hunt for fossils and arrowheads after a cowboy breakfast on the range. Visitors can also take a trail ride and dance lessons at Mayan Dude Ranch . 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. 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 .

Dripping Springs

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Just 25 miles outside Austin , Dripping Springs is a mecca for those who love spirit tastings, as the town is full of distilleries. 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. Deep Eddy Vodka also has a tasting room here. Wineries dot the area, and the Texas Hill Country Olive Co. offers orchard walking tours, olive mill tours, and olive oil tastings. For a bit of nature, check out the Hamilton Pool Preserve , formed by thousands of years of water erosion, which created the collapsed grotto, canyons, and 50-foot waterfall. A quarter-mile trail takes you to the pool, where you can spot golden-cheeked warblers and other bird species along the way. Looking for something a bit less strenuous? Boutique shopping, live music, and dining are plentiful.

Between Austin and Houston , you'll find the tiny town of Round Top, known for its epic antiques show that occurs bi-annually. In the historic district, Henkel Square Market has various shops housed in historic buildings that date back to the 1800s. Visitors will find fine art, jewelry, clothing, and beautiful artwork here. Don't miss Royers Pie Haven , which serves up some of the best pies in the state — the Texas Trash pie is positively sinful. You'll also find plenty of galleries, shopping, and dining, while the Round Top Area Historical Society tells the history of the town. Theater fans will love Shakespeare at Winedale , which holds performances of the Bard's plays in the spring and summer. Snap a pic at the world's smallest Catholic Church , and head out to explore the area's numerous wineries.

Port Aransas

With 18 miles of beaches, Port Aransas, located on Mustang Island on the Gulf Coast, is a haven for anglers and beachgoers. Fishermen can cast a line from the beach or a public fishing pier, or take an off-shore excursion for various fish species. 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. Visit Farley Boat Works to partake in building a boat, or head out on a bird-watching expedition — Port Aransas has six sites along the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail , with hundreds of bird species frequenting the area. 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 . Nightlife is also popular, with bars and restaurants regularly hosting musical acts.

Johnson City

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Known for being the home of former President Lyndon B. Johnson, Johnson City is a Hill Country escape full of beauty and history. Visit the former president's boyhood home , where he lived from the age of five until his 1924 high school graduation. Its 1920s-era furnishings offer a glimpse of what rural life in Texas was like at the time. At the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park , visit the LBJ Ranch, which includes the Texas White House , where Johnson spent time during his presidency. Just up the road at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site , meander down nature trails while passing bison and longhorn, tour historic cabins built by a German immigrant, and visit the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm , where park rangers in period costumes show what life on the farm was like in the 1800s. Wine enthusiasts can head down State Highway 290 for numerous wineries showcasing Texas wines.

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11 Small Towns With Big Texas Charm You Need To Visit

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• Destinations
• Fredericksburg
• Texas Hill Country
• United States

A rich history, vast landscapes, warm weather — that’s Texas in a nutshell. While it’s known for thriving large cities like Dallas and Houston, the Lone Star State is also home to many charming small towns. I feel blessed to live in a state with so much diversity and so much history — and, of course, lots of small towns that I never get tired of visiting.

I have many good memories of driving through Texas with my family in our green station wagon, playing games in the car. The most memorable times were when my dad would help me find that horse for 20 points, the next word in the ABC game, or that slug bug for a slap. I’ll also never forget the jokes he would tell us while on the road. The funny thing was that he always told us the same jokes over and over, but we loved them every time.

While Texas is full of small towns, my list here consists of towns I’ve visited a time or two and remember fondly. For a real Texas experience, take in a few of these small towns with big charm on your next road trip through the state. Don’t be surprised if you hear the word “howdy” a hundred times!

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1. Granbury

Granbury is a short drive from Fort Worth and has a wonderful lake to play on. It’s also home to many award-winning bed and breakfasts that are packed with charm. When visiting this small Texas town, walk around the historic town square, especially if you like to shop for unique gifts, antiques, and food items. This is one town I can’t pass without checking out the local antique shops! You can even catch a Broadway production at the old opera house.

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2. Jefferson

Jefferson is a small East Texas town you won’t want to leave! The town is home to some great history museums and a charming downtown. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or hanging out in nature, you’ll have countless activities to choose from. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, check out these outdoor activities near Jefferson that are available all year long, such as kayaking and lake tours. There are a vast number of very nice bed and breakfasts in town in case you want to extend your stay. But be sure to find one that serves breakfast each morning — some do not offer this option.

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3. Grapevine

Grapevine never stops growing. It’s home to a quaint downtown, fabulous eateries, the Grapevine Mills Mall , the Gaylord Texan Resort , and lots of popular festivals. During the holidays, Grapevine is like a picture from a storybook, and you’ll want to return again and again. If you’re in this area for Christmas, take a look at these reasons to visit Grapevine during the holidays . If you love large festivals, you may want to visit in May for the Main Street Fest or in September for GrapeFest . Both are family friendly, but the latter serves up wines of all kinds!

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4. Fredericksburg

Every time I write a story about Texas, it seems that Fredericksburg makes my list. This charming town has something for everyone , including rich German heritage, wineries, plenty of shopping, restaurants of all kinds, and awesome nightlife. Don’t skip the restaurants and shops on the town’s side streets! This is a great place to gather your girlfriends for a weekend getaway to tour the wineries. Fredericksburg can also be the ultimate place to go for a romantic getaway or holiday vacation .

There’s a small town between Waco and Austin that you may have passed up a time or two. But, let me tell you, you’re going to want to stop next time. Salado is nothing short of a small town with big charm, especially if you love wine, shopping, and golfing. Make this place your next getaway, and you won’t regret it. You’ll love the boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, lodging options, nature opportunities, and festivals. If you decide to stay the night, find a quaint cottage or hang your bonnet at the Stagecoach Inn , with its newly renovated rooms, Sferra bed linens, and Turkish cotton bath towels.

Pro Tip: Try not to visit on a Sunday or Monday, since many of the shops are closed.

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There’s always a good reason to take a trip to Brenham — a big scoop of ice cream for just $1 at the Blue Bell Creameries and Ice Cream Parlor ! But in the spring, the town is covered in brilliant bluebonnets and all kinds of other wildflowers. The Texas state flower springs up around the first of April along Highway 290 East and FM 390. Stop by the visitor center to pick up a bluebonnet map that outlines the best scenic routes. If you’re only visiting for a day, check out our guide to spending a great day in Brenham — but there are plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy for a full weekend.

When visiting Gruene , formerly its own town but now part of the town of New Braunfels , you must visit Gruene Hall , Texas’s oldest operating dance hall. If time allows, take in a show — you never know what the next act will be. Back in the day, George Strait played here a time or two. This small town is full of charm, and the funky shops and good grub are just two of the reasons I love it.

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8. Waxahachie

There’s so much to love about Waxahachie . Its stunning Victorian homes are unmatched in the Dallas region, and if you love antiquing, you’ll be spoiled for choice: Waxahachie is located on the Texas Antique Trail, Antique Show Trail, and Vintage Market Trail. Vintage Market Days take place in March and October.

When I was a young woman, I always wanted to spend Christmas in this charming town. Back then, I thought traveling an hour or so away from home was a big deal, so I never ventured out that way. Now that I’m all about travel, this charming small town is high up on my list of road trips to take during the holidays.

For a splurge-worthy day, drive out to Canton for First Monday Trade Days , a full day of outdoor shopping. I have found many unique antiques there, and the last time I went, I stocked up on artificial flowers. My favorite months to go are September, October, and November, since it’s not too hot or too cold, and it’s when you might find spring and summer items marked down. Bring your friends and a massive vehicle, because you will all leave with something!

Note that First Monday always takes place on the weekend before the first Monday of the month. For this reason, there are a couple of months in the year where First Monday happens twice.

Canton is an easy day trip from Dallas , but if you’d like to stay overnight, there are a few bed and breakfasts in town. These book up quickly for First Monday Trade Days, though!

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10. Weatherford

If you love peaches, you’ll want to visit Weatherford in July, despite the heat. Weatherford is known for its Parker County Peach Festival , where everything is peachy for a week, including the burgers! Though it’s hot in July, this peach week is worth a visit just for a sweet taste of the homemade peach cobbler. You can also try H-E-B’s scrumptious peach tea (for free!) and a peach margarita.

Other popular attractions that bring people to Weatherford include the First Monday Trade Days , which take place every weekend before the first Monday of the month, and the beautiful Chandor Gardens . You can check out these two attractions year-round.

Nestled in the Texas Hill Country just north of San Antonio , this lovely German town boasts lots of charm. From one end of Main Street to the other, Boerne offers visitors a wide range of unique shops, restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, and wineries all year long. This street is long, so if you plan to walk it, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. A weekend here is the perfect place for a girlfriends’ getaway or an outdoor experience or two. It’s also a fabulous place just to slow down and unwind.

Travel writer and road trip enthusiast of My Traveling Roads , Kim Croisant, is a proud native Texan passionate about seeing the world by car, plane, train, RV — any way she can. Her travels include many road trips through Texas and beyond. Kim is raising her grandson and takes him and her Yorkie/Shih Tzu mix doggies on as many trips as possible. When she's feeling the love, she lets her darling 84-year-old mother come along as well. But her favorite way to travel is solo. When Kim's not writing, she is hiking through nature and camping in the woods in a cabin full of amenities.

15 Small Texas Towns You Need to Visit

"I saw miles and miles of Texas, all the stars up in the sky, I saw miles and miles of Texas, gonna live here 'til I die,"  -- "Miles and Miles of Texas" by Bob Wills

Traveling the state of Texas you can see the skyscrapers of Houston, the music of Gruene Hall in New Braunfels, the beaches all along the Gulf of Mexico, visit the "Big D" (that's Dallas to you non-Texans) and get a taste of Mexican culture in San Antonio or get weird in Austin.

But if you're only hitting the big cities, you're missing a lot of what Texas is really about. Don't drive out to El Paso without taking a detour to Marfa , Alpine or Terlingua. And don't head to Waco without getting a kolache at the Czech Stop in West.

Check out these 15 tiny Texas towns you don't want to miss on your next road trip.

Table of Contents

15. Granbury

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Granbury, Texas is full of old Texas history. The Granbury Opera house was established just after the Texas revolution, and if you're interested in old west outlaw history, you probably thought Jesse James was buried in Missouri. But a Granbury legend says the outlaw survived until 1954 and is buried in Granbury.

If you want to go a little further back in history, check out Dinosaur World, a 20-acre attraction that features life-sized models of dinosaurs.

If you're looking for accommodations in Granbury, why not stay in the Nutt House ? While you're there, take the ghosts and legends tour, or maybe go fishing in Lake Granbury or the Brazos River.

Granbury is also home to the family-owned Revolver Brewing company, one of Texas's fastest growing microbrews. The brewery is open to customers for tours and tastings.

14. Wimberley

Nestled deep in the lush greenery of the Texas Hill Country sits Wimberley, a small town that is anything but quiet. Every Friday night for as long as most folks can remember, Wimberley has hosted what they call "Bluegrass Jam" in a vacant parking lot, as is true Texas small-town style. Bluegrass Jam is just what it sounds like, an informal gathering of incredible bluegrass musicians and bluegrass lovers who sit, pick and sing together late into the night. You can also catch some live music and incredible views on the patio at Ino'z:

Wimberley is also home to Blue Hole, a particularly picturesque swimming hole surrounded by a beautiful park where you can spend all day in the shade of bald cypress trees swinging into the cool water from a hoop and chain.

"The little town that beer built" is mostly known as the home of the Spoetzl Brewery, makers of Shiner beer. The brewery is certainly something to see, but there is more to Shiner than just beer.

The historic Gaslight Theatre hosts local productions three times a year, and if you don't get your fill of history there, you can check out the cigar factory or the Wolters Museum. And, like any self-respecting small Texas town, one of the local hangouts is a gas station. Howard's isn't just any gas station however, it offers Shiner historical memorabilia, live music and has nine beers on tap .

12. Schulenburg

Situated on I-10 half way between San Antonio and Houston is the small town of Schulenburg. Schulenburg is home to the famous "painted churches" with their intricately designed and ornate statuary.

While visiting, check out the supposedly haunted Von Minden Hotel and theatre. Schulenburg was settled mainly by German and Austrian pioneers, and is the location of the Texas Polka Music Museum.

11. Chappell Hill

Located along Highway 290 between Brenham and Hempstead, the historic town of Chappell Hill is home to only about 600 residents. Don't let its size fool you though, Chappell Hill is rich with history and industry. Situated not far from the Brazos River, Chappell Hill was part of Stephen F. Austin's original colony.

Today, the tiny hamlet boasts a meat market called Chappell Hill Sausage Company that sells incredible sausage and homemade canned goods. Every April the town bursts into activity for the Bluebonnet Festival, which includes live music, antiques, crafts and every good thing small town Texas has to offer.

10. Seymour

Just about an hour south of the Texas/Oklahoma border is the tiny town of Seymour. This blink-and-you-missed-it whistle stop is definitely a place you shouldn't miss if you're interested in paleontology. Seymour and the surrounding area of Baylor County are a hotbed archeological activity. "Seymour and Baylor County is the best place in the world to find lower Permian reptiles and amphibians," said Paleontologist Chris Flis. Flis is also the Museum Director for the Whiteside Museum of Natural History  in Seymour.

The land around Seymour is currently being excavated by Flis and Anthropologist Mallori Hass to unearth a Dimetrodon they've christened "Mary." Seymour even has a Permian reptile named after it, Seymoria, a small, reptilian, lizard-like creature. The first one discovered (found in 1875) is currently on display at the Smithsonian.

Want to see the best live music show in Texas? Of course, you do! The tiny town of Liberty, northeast of Houston claims to have just that at the Liberty Opry on the Square. The Liberty Opry in a traditional old opry house and hosts a variety style show, including several music acts and some wholesome country comedy.

Liberty is also the location of some other interesting attractions, including a full-size replica of the original Governor's Mansion and a few other homes with historical significance that were built in the 1800's.

8. Archer City

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Made famous as the inspiration behind the book "The Last Picture Show," Archer City is still as captivating as it was when renowned Texan author Larry McMurtry was growing up there. In 2014, the town elected an 18-year-old high school student as its mayor in an uncontested election.

Archer City is now also almost as well-known for the two labyrinthian bookstores that surely house more volumes than the library at Alexandria. If you're looking for a rare first edition of any particular book, this would be an ideal place to start.

7. Fredericksburg

Georgia doesn't have a monopoly on peaches; we have plenty right here in the Lone Star State. Just a short trip down Highway 290 west of Austin, you can walk through verdant orchards picking your own peaches when they're in season. While you're in town, check out Wildseed Farms to get your hands on some beautiful native Texas flowers and plants.

Far from a one-trick pony though, Fredericksburg is also home to many historical museums including the National Museum of the Pacific War, which commemorates the heroes and events of World War II in the Pacific Theater. You can also visit several wineries in and around the Fredericksburg area.

The tiny hamlet of Gruene sits on the eastern edge of the Texas Hill Country along the Guadalupe River. Gruene is home to the oldest dance hall in Texas , Gruene Hall. They regularly host some of the best national and regional country and American music talent.

The picturesque dance hall is surrounded by quaint shops and restaurants like the Gristmill, which has delicious German food and an unbeatable view of the river.

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"Tough to get here, tough to explain, but once you get here, you get it," say residents of Marfa, Texas. To most, the tiny west Texas town might seem an odd choice for an art installation, much less several art installations by world-renowned artists. Yet there they stand for all to see.

4. Gonzales

If you ever want to achieve any real sense of understanding of what makes Texans the way we are, study the Texas revolution. It's a fascinating history, and part of it took place in this small south Texas town. Even if you've never heard of Gonzales, chances are you've seen its historical flag, or heard the phrase made famous when Gonzales became the site of the first battle of the Texas Revolution, "Come and take it!"

Gonzales still has its original jail, built in 1887, that is now a museum open for tours. In addition, Gonzales has several Texas-themed annual events such as the Come and Take it Day, the First Shot Cook Off and color run, and the Come and Pull It tractor pull.

If you're wondering about the Czech heritage many Texans claim, a great place to learn more about it is in West, Texas. Located about half an hour north of Waco on I-35, West has an incredible culture handed down from its original settlers that still endures today.

West is home to the Czech Stop, a local bakery famous for its kolaches. Also, every year the town hosts "Westfest" which is a celebration of Czech culture and heritage.

2. Terlingua

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Out west, settled near the Rio Grande and just a stone's throw from Big Bend State Park lies the little community of Terlingua, Texas. Home to fewer than 60 residents and the location of a storied  ghost town , Terlingua bursts into life every November to host one of Texas's biggest chili cook-offs. Every year hundreds of people descend upon the tiny town en masse to prove their chili is the best in the state.

1. Luckenbach

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"Population: 3" reads the famous city limits sign in Luckenbach, Texas. Immortalized by Waylon Jennings in his song "Luckenbach, Texas", the town is really not much more than a general store, post office and a dance hall. What more do you really need in Texas?

READ MORE:  A Country Music Fan's Guide to Texas: A Musical Road Trip Through the Lone Star State

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• 14 Best Small Towns To Visit In Texas

While the saying is "everything is bigger in Texas," Texas has many small towns that beg to differ. Known for its cowboy culture, diverse landscapes, delicious BBQ, and its large cities, Texas has many picture-perfect small towns. Whether you love history, country music, or adventure, Texas has many small towns that ooze Southern hospitality and small-town, Texan charm. So, grab your cowboy hats and your blue jeans, and come hungry and ready to experience some of the best BBQ meals in the world. These small Texas towns are worth the journey. 

Dripping Springs

As the “gateway to the Hill Country,” known to have some of the most beautiful state parks and natural attractions, Dripping Springs is a haven for nature lovers. Hill Country is known for its limestone bluffs, deep canyons with cool springs lined with lush greenery and towering cypress trees, and Dripping Springs is no expectation. Created over thousands of years of water erosion, the Hamilton Pool Preserve is a beautiful spot with canyons, a collapsed grotto, and a 50-foot waterfall. Before you go, make sure to reserve your spot, as Hamilton Pool is only open by reservation in order to preserve the natural landscape. The surrounding woodland is perfect for bird-watching native species like golden-cheeked warblers. 

Fredericksburg

Located 80 miles away from the Greater Austin area, Fredericksburg is full of historic sites. The birthplace of Texas German, a dialect spoken by the first generations of German settlers who immigrated to the town, many long-time German residents referred to the town as Fritztown, a nickname that many businesses still use. With popular attractions such as the National Museum of the Pacific War, Fredericksburg is a popular destination for weekend getaways for anyone looking for small-town culture, delectable food, and boutique shopping. The over 150 locally-owned stores, boutiques, and art galleries make Fredericksburg a great place for a shopping trip. Franchises and chain stores are not allowed within the National Historic District of the town, so every shop on Main Street is one of a kind. Get a new pair of boots at Allens Boots, or go antiquing at the Antiques Mall of Fredericksburg, and end your shopping trip with a glass of local wine at the Andreucci WineRoom.  With a vibrant music and nightlife community and wineries, maximize your time by exploring pre-built itineraries on the town’s website. 

Established in 1849 by German farmers,  the town of Luckenbach may be small, but it has a big personality. The town's popular dancehall has hosted some of the biggest names in Country music, including Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Lyle Lovett. The town’s dance hall still hosts live music events, including Pickers Circle and Song Swap Sunday.  Relax under a 500-year-old oak tree, listen to live music, poke around the General Store for unique souvenirs and immerse yourself in small-town living at its finest. A short drive from Fredericksburg, Luckenbach is a great spot to see live music and explore small-town charm. 

Known as the Cowboy Capital of the World, Bandera is a haven for anyone wanting to experience ranch life, learn horseback riding, or attend a rodeo. Take a trail ride on horseback, toast marshmallows over a campfire, and catch a Saturday afternoon “gunfight”. With beautiful rolling skies, nightly music events, and 5000 acres of plateaus and canyons to explore, Bandera is steeped in history and adventure.  If you're wanting to see more of Texas' natural beauty, kayak along the Medina River. To learn about the past, check out the Frontier Times Museum to learn about Texas’ rich history. End your day at Arkey Blue's Silver Dollar-the oldest continuously operating honkytonk in Texas.

Founded in the early 1880s as a water stop, Marfa is one of Texas's most unique small towns. With its unique blend of arts, culture, and natural beauty, its stark landscapes have inspired artists and creatives for decades, giving rise to its renowned art scene. With modern art installments, art galleries, and filming locations, Marfa’s tranquil, dreamy downtown looks like something out of a Wes Anderson set. Home to several works by Andry Warhol, Marfa is a major center for minimalist art and has some iconic art installations, such as the Prada Marfa Installation. At night, experience the mysteries of the Marfa lights, strange dancing orbs that appear in the night sky have intrigued scientists and visitors alike for decades.

The town of Shiner radiates warmth and small-town charm. Spoetzl Brewery, the oldest independent brewery in Texas and creator of Shiner Beer Shiner, celebrates its German heritage yearly with its Oktoberfest celebration. Home to Kaspar Companies, one of the oldest continuously operating companies in America. Theatre lovers can catch an amateur production at The Gaslight Theatre, which originally opened in the late 1800s, and was revived in 1975 by a local nun and her drama class. The city has several notable and historic buildings and shopping attractions, including the Cigar Factory, which first opened in 1895, and Antiques, Art & Beer, a one-of-a-kind establishment with a very literal name. Swing by Howard's Convenience Store for Shiner memorabilia, 9 kinds of beer on tap, video rentals, snacks, and a covered beer garden out back. With one foot solidly in the past and another in the present, Shiner blends its rich history, and vibrant present, creating its own unique Texan tapestry. 

Lovingly known as the “Official Irish Capital of Texas,” Dublin’s annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration pays homage to its Irish roots.  Known as the original bottlers of Dr. Pepper, Dublin Bottling Works (which, sadly, is no longer bottled here) continues to produce pure cane sugar sodas. Dublin has a  nostalgic main street and downtown core lined with historic storefronts, welcoming cafes situated amid rolling hills, and several museums about its history and picturesque landscapes.  Check out the Ben Hogan Museum, dedicated to the legendary golfer who lived in Dublin as a child, the Dublin Historical Museum, or the Rodeo Heritage Museum to learn more about Dublin's past before heading to a wine tasting at Lucky Vines Vineyard and Winery.

A nature lover’s paradise, Wimberley is an enchanting town with an artistic undercurrent and serene beauty. Swim or kayak on the Blanco River, or explore Jacob’s Well Natural Area, an artesian spring with an underground cave system. Enjoy the outdoors at Blue Hole Regional Park, which is full of trails, picnic spots, and an amphitheatre. If you enjoy long drives, explore the Devil’s Backbone-a scenic highway that runs through Wimberley and the surrounding towns. Climb up Old Baldy (Prayer Mountain) for an amazing Hill Country View, or visit during annual events such as the Wimberley Arts Fest. 

Johnson City

Emanating a rich blend of history and natural beauty, Johnson City is a history lover’s dream. The hometown of President Lyndon B. Johnson, LBJ National Historical Park, is a must-see destination. Offering insights into the president’s life and legacy, the town’s Main Street features charming boutique shopping, eateries, and the Rustin Science Mill. Surrounded by rolling landscapes and Pedernales Falls State Park’s rugged trails and spectacular waterfalls. Johnson City has several renowned wineries and is part of the Texas Wine Trail. A winning combination of small-town charm, heritage, and natural beauty, Johnson City encompasses classic, small-town Texas charm. 

Arrive hungry when visiting Lockhart! Known as the “Barbecue Capital of Texas,” Lockhart has plenty of breweries, smokehouses, and historic charm. Originally called Plum Creek and later changed to Lockhart, the town is full of heritage and history and has several historical attractions, such as the Dr. Eugene Clark Library and the Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches.  Adorned with vintage storefronts, and the picturesque Caldwell County Courthouse, Lockhart celebrates its Cowboy heritage annually with its Chisholm Trail roundup, with rodeos and parades. 

Nestled near Big Bend National Park, this remote desert oasis in West Texas looks like it has come right from the pages of a Western novel. Once a booming mining town, Terlingua is now a ghost town filled with weathered ruins, creating a mysterious, enchanting atmosphere that attracts tourists. The annual Terlingua International Chili Cookoff brings life and flavors to the desert, while local art and music festivals allow Terlingua to continue to serve as a hub for eclectic adventurers, nature lovers, and free spirits.  

Starting off as a square and log cabin courthouse and now a beautiful, charming historical town, Granbury is the definition of a quaint, southern small town. Situated along the shores of Lake Granbury, water lovers will be attracted to the lake-side activities, from boating to fishing. The town’s historic downtown is home to ornate Victorian architecture, charming shops, and eateries. The Granbury Opera House is a cultural landmark and still boasts incredible productions that transport audiences back in time. With annual events like their Old-Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration and the Granbury Wine Walk, visitors flock to Granbury for its combination of southern hospitality, history, recreation, and quintessential Texas charm. 

Known as the city with the original Blue Bell Creamery, where you can still get giant ice cream cones for $1 per scoop and enjoy factory tours, Brenham’s historic district is filled with antique shops, vintage storefronts, and the Brenham Heritage Museum. The Unity Theatre enriches the community with live performances, while the annual Maifest and Christmas Stroll festivals celebrate the local spirit. With a touch of nostalgia and Texan pride, Brenham’s downtown center is very walkable and is home to lots of beautiful murals. 

Full of history and charm, Jefferson, a pre-civil war town in East Texas, has nearly 100 historical landmarks. Transport yourself to a bygone era with Jefferson’s well-preserved antebellum architecture. Nestled along the Big Cypress Bayou, see a different view of Jefferson on a  steamboat ride, and see a glimpse into the town’s past. Home of the Jefferson Carnegie Library, which was funded by American industrialist and steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, explores the town’s history with the Jefferson Historical Museum. Fans of Gone with the Wind won’t want to miss the Gone with the Wind Museum, which pays homage to the iconic novel and film. Unofficially known as "the most haunted town in Texas", the Historic Jefferson Ghost Walk is one of the most popular tours in town. A nighttime walk through Jefferson's Historic Haunts, the tours happen year-round every Friday and Saturday night at 8 pm. 

With plenty to do, see, and eat, Texas has a rich history that encompasses Southern charm and American ingenuity. Go horseback riding through scenic trails, walk down historic main streets, and experience a unique combination of state pride, historic charm, and delicious food that makes Texas, Texas. Immersed in picture-perfect landscapes and timeless traditions, small towns in Texas reveal the true essence of the Lone Star State, which leaves a lasting impression and deep appreciation for its diverse and welcoming communities. 

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Best places to visit in texas.

They say everything is bigger in Texas. And if you take into account all that the state has to offer, it's easy to see why the Lone Star State packs such a potent punch with travelers. Texas is filled to the brim with breathtaking countrysides, significant historical attractions, diverse museums, pristine city parks, suburban shopping meccas, mouthwatering barbecue and more. U.S. News took into account traveler sentiment and expert analysis to come up with the best places to visit in Texas. Want to share your opinion? Make sure to vote below to help determine next year's list. 

Big Bend National Park

Fredericksburg, tx, san antonio, guadalupe mountains national park, port aransas, south padre island, mustang island, corpus christi, san josé island.

This sprawling metropolis promises a jam-packed itinerary for every type of traveler, whether you're traveling with the family or on a romantic getaway . Explore the many museums, parks and historical sites the city has to offer, including the infamous Dealey Plaza, where JFK was assassinated, or get to know Dallas' vibrant, artsy neighborhoods like Trinity Groves and the Design District. And if you're visiting during football season, catch a Dallas Cowboys game to see state pride at its best. However you spend your time, you'll be surrounded by top-notch restaurants and a surplus of shopping options.

Every year, more than 500,000 people visit this national park along the U.S.-Mexico border to spend some time outdoors. Big Bend National Park features hundreds of miles of paved and dirt roads for scenic drives, as well as 150-plus miles of hiking trails. While exploring the park's sections of the Chihuahuan Desert, the Chisos Mountains and the Rio Grande, keep your eyes peeled for more than 450 bird species, including several kinds of woodpeckers, thrashers and sparrows. At night, camp (or glamp) under the moonlight to see why Big Bend is one of the best dark sky parks in the country.

For a different kind of Texas vacation, skip the state's main cities and beach towns in favor of a visit to Fredericksburg. This Texas Hill Country locale is known for its superb shops, rich German roots and tasty wines. When you're not enjoying some retail therapy on Main Street, learn about the town's connection to Germany at the Pioneer Museum. Don't forget to sample some of Fredericksburg's delectable vino before you leave; you'll have your pick of more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms in and around Fredericksburg.

Historical relics like The Alamo are no doubt San Antonio's biggest draw. However, you don't need to be a history buff to enjoy all the city has to offer. The River Walk makes for a soothing stroll along the San Antonio River, while the expansive Brackenridge Park offers a variety of attractions and amenities. Active travelers can practice their swing at the park's golf course and ball fields, nature lovers can pass the time in its stunning Japanese Tea Garden and families can get an up-close look at the on-site San Antonio Zoo's animals. Before you leave, sample a San Antonio staple – the puffy taco.

If hiking is one of your favorite pastimes, then you'll want to venture to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This national park by the southern Texas-New Mexico border houses eight of the state's 10 highest peaks, including the iconic El Capitan, and features 80-plus miles of hiking paths, such as traveler-approved routes like Devil's Hall and the Guadalupe Peak Trail. Although the scenery is stunning year-round, for extra-memorable vistas, visit in fall when the park's tree leaves turn vivid shades of red, orange and yellow.

This small town on Mustang Island (about 40 miles northeast of Corpus Christi) provides ample opportunities for fun in the sun. When you're not sunbathing, parasailing or splashing around at the beach, put your angling skills to the test in the "Fishing Capital of Texas" or sign up for a dolphin-watching cruise. You'll also want to keep an eye out for the endangered whooping crane and other birds in this bird-watching paradise. If you love festivals, time your visit to coincide with one of Port Aransas' events, which focus on everything from art to music to food.

Texas is home to some prime Gulf Coast shorelines , and South Padre Island is considered one of the best. South Padre offers 34 miles of relaxing beaches along the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. While the island has a reputation for being a prime party spot for spring breakers, the rest of the year it's favored by families thanks to its affordability and bevy of kid-friendly attractions. Head to Sea Turtle, Inc. to learn about local sea turtle rehabilitation efforts, or visit Beach Park Waterpark to cool off on a hot day.

The capital city's colorful character takes Texas to an entirely new level. Austin offers loads in the way of culture, cuisine and natural scenery. While here, enjoy unique outdoor areas like Zilker Metropolitan Park (where you'll find the natural Barton Springs Pool), various museums and plenty of delectable Tex-Mex joints. The best way to soak up Austin's contagious energy is to visit Sixth Street. This music hub is packed with bars, restaurants and live music venues that have helped Austin earn its "Live Music Capital of the World" moniker. For a souvenir, head to SoCo to pick up a pair of authentic cowboy boots.

Originally inhabited by wild horses, the aptly named Mustang Island is now known for its miles of beaches and outdoor activities. On this 18-mile-long barrier island, which sits about 30 miles southeast of Corpus Christi, visitors will find Mustang Island State Park, a popular place to go mountain biking, kayaking and swimming. The park is also home to endangered sea turtles and more than 400 bird species, making it an excellent destination to spot wildlife, and boasts 5 miles of beaches. For more outdoor recreation outside the park, travelers can visit North Packery Beach to enjoy water sports like kiteboarding, wakeboarding and surfing.

Once a lesser-known, low-key getaway, this small town just north of Mexico now attracts space enthusiasts thanks to its SpaceX launch site. Beachgoers will still find plenty of allure with Boca Chica's 8-mile-long stretch of sand, but remember to bring your own equipment since water sports rentals like surfboards and kiteboards are not available on-site. You'll also want to plan ahead, as the beach is closed near rocket launch dates. While here, save time for wildlife watching, as the area is a haven for various bird and sea turtle species, particularly in spring and fall.

Renowned as one of America's top barbecue destinations, Houston offers travelers a finger-licking good time. But did you know Houston is also a culture hub? Within the urban sprawl, visitors can check out museums galore, from NASA's impressive Johnson Space Center to the quirky Art Car Museum. Many of the city's restaurants and shops are also covered in Instagram-worthy murals. Plus, with the world-class Houston Zoo , verdant Buffalo Bayou Park and a children's museum, Houston is an ideal (and affordable) vacation spot for families. Consider purchasing a CityPASS to save even more coin.

Corpus Christi features several scenic shorelines and can't-miss attractions to keep you entertained for days. Popular stretches of sand in this Gulf Coast city include McGee Beach and North Beach, which is also home to two of Corpus Christi's most visited sights, the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington. Additional museums and entertainment venues can be found in SEA, the city's Sports, Entertainment and Arts District. Meanwhile, music fans can visit several sites dedicated to the emblematic Tejano singer Selena, including the Selena Museum and the Mirador de la Flor memorial.

Sitting in between Fort Worth and Dallas (roughly 23 miles from both), Grapevine delights all travelers, whether they're outdoorsy types, historians or wine lovers. Lake Grapevine is a popular boating and fishing spot, while its surrounding trails attract hikers and bikers. Meanwhile, history buffs can engage in 19th-century heritage events at Nash Farm or ride into the past on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. As its name suggests, Grapevine is also home to several tasting rooms along Texas' Urban Wine Trail. What's more, with some of the best water parks in Texas , an aquarium and a LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Grapevine is incredibly kid-friendly.

Located about 50 miles southeast of Houston, Galveston attracts Texans looking for a convenient place to spend some time at the beach. The island features family-friendly spots like Stewart Beach (with amenities like lifeguards, volleyball courts and a playground) and Pleasure Pier (which features an array of games and rides). Meanwhile, Schlitterbahn Waterpark offers yet another place to play. Away from the sand, visitors can explore the shop-, restaurant- and nightclub-filled Strand District, named a National Historic Landmark for its well-preserved Victorian architecture. Travelers will also want to check out other historical sights, such as Bishop's Palace and Moody Mansion.

Easy to reach by ferry from Port Aransas, this former ranch is now a prime beach destination. Because San José Island is privately owned, the island's only publicly accessible land is its 21-mile stretch of unspoiled sand situated below the vegetation line. But visitors will find plenty to do on the beach. The island's more than 600 kinds of fish and roughly 300 bird species make it a terrific place to go fishing and birding. Other popular pastimes here include shelling and surfing.

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13 Charming, Small Texas Towns You Should Definitely Visit

• Small towns in Texas may have low populations, but they offer genuine Southern hospitality, delicious food, and unique boutiques.
• Jefferson, Marfa, Fredericksburg, and Gruene are just a few examples of small Texas towns with rich history and attractions to visit.
• From art scenes to vineyards, charming downtown squares to outdoor recreation, these small towns offer a variety of experiences for visitors to enjoy.

They say everything is bigger in Texas, but there are actually a number of adorable small towns in Texas worth adding to the bucket list . Not just small as in 20,000 people; these are some truly tiny spots with populations as low as 10,000, 2,000, 300, and all the way down to 91!

Don’t let these small numbers deceive you. The Lone Star State is also known for its Southern hospitality, and these towns serve it up in an amazing way. From the friendly cafés that serve drool-worthy comfort food and cozy boutiques with stylish clothes that can’t be found anywhere else to the residents who smile, wave, ask how someone is doing, and actually care, these are small towns with some real charm. Here are some of the best small towns in Texas that are definitely worth a visit.

UPDATE: 2023/10/22 21:22 EST BY NICOLE HANSEN

More To Love In Tiny Texas Towns!

Ready to visit some of the smallest, most charming towns in Texas? This list has been updated with even more small towns to visit in the Lone Star State, as well as additional information about each small-town destination. Have fun exploring!

RELATED: 10 Small Towns In America That Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List

At less than 2,000 permanent residents, according to the 2020 US census, Jefferson is the definition of a small town. Jefferson may not be one of the tourist towns that generally make the list in Texas, but there is plenty to see and enjoy in this quirky rural area.

Jefferson is one of relatively few towns in Texas with pre-Civil War history. Despite the low population, there are nearly 100 historic landmarks in the small town of Jefferson, including churches, a Civil War meat packing plant, and several factories that are over 100 years old.

After exploring the rich history of the area, visitors can enjoy the cozy southern-style cooking from local restaurants and make the most of their time in one of the best small towns in Texas.

• Population of Jefferson: ~1,875 people

Travelers looking for a vibrant art scene may not think of West Texas, but hiding in the tiny town of Marfa, a place that just over 1,800 people call home, is a unique display. Marfa has gained some fame in recent years for its unexpected variety of artwork, including several pieces by Andy Warhol, among others.

Some particularly unique permanent displays, like the " Prada Marfa ," continue to draw visitors to this unusual stop. With the added benefit of the town's small size and friendly disposition, there is no reason not to visit this one-of-a-kind small Texas town.

• Population of Marfa: ~1,840 people

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is slightly larger than some of the absolute smallest towns in Texas. With just over 11,000 people, Fredericksburg is hardly big city material, but attractions are sure to invite. Fredericksburg is known for having some of the best vineyards in Texas , many of which can be visited and toured by guests.

Fredericksburg also has a unique German theme throughout the town. The locally owned restaurants and shops are full not only of southern hospitality but German-themed food, sweets, and souvenirs. With such an exceptional vibe and a wide variety of things to do and see, Fredericksburg is absolutely one of the best small towns to visit in Texas.

• Population of Fredericksburg: ~11,072 people

Related: 8 Most Charming B&Bs To Book Near Fredericksburg, Texas

Gruene was a town known for its cotton, but now, it's a tourist destination full of unique finds. With just 20 permanent residents, the entire town has been added to the National Register of Historic Places. There is a historic Victorian mansion, the Gruene Family Home, which is an inn. There are antique stores and gift shops full of treasures.

There is the Gruene Hall, which is one of the oldest dance halls in the state. There is an old cotton gin that was turned into an amazing place to eat, the Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar. And there is the iconic water tower that stands above it all.

• Population of Gruene: ~20 people

Marble Falls

Marble Falls, one of the best small-town destinations in spring , is located near Austin, Texas, and has just over 6,000 people in it. Outdoor recreation is a big draw to the area, as Lake Marble Falls offers pretty views, hiking trails, and a large drag boat race each year.

The downtown square is full of adorable shops (including one that sells the best toffee in the world). One of the most notable spots in town is the Blue Bonnet Cafe. It opened up in 1929, and it is known for its Southern hospitality and food, such as delicious pies!

• Population of Marble Falls: ~7,227 people

Munday has around 1,300 residents, and it sits in between Abilene and Wichita Falls (two towns in Texas that are a little bit bigger!). This is a farming community with an emphasis on cotton, but there are many other perks, as well. There is a school that has earned several state titles in extracurricular activities such as football, track, cross-country, band, one-act play, and CX debate.

There is a downtown square with cute stores, such as a flower shop called Buds For You and a clothing store called Casa Blanca Boutique. There is also a public art project that has resulted in several murals and other pieces going up in town.

• Population of Munday: ~1,240 people

During its last census, Wimberley had 2,626 people living in it, and this is another charming town to see. First up, there is the Blue Hole Park, a lagoon in which people can swim, and the Blanco River. There is a downtown square that attracts numerous visitors with its shops and restaurants.

There are wineries and inns nestled in this pretty Hill Country area. And there are regular Market Days, too, which allow even more people to discover even more goodies in one of the best small towns in all of Texas!

• Population of Winberly: ~2,626 people

RELATED: 10 Of The Best Burgers In Texas And Where To Find Them

Graham is in north central Texas, it has been around since 1871, and it has around 8,900 residents. There are several churches, a hospital, a radio station, a couple of parks, and a drive-in movie theater.

There are a number of exceptional downtowns to explore in Texas , but they would be hard-pressed to compete with the small-town downtown scene in Graham. Graham's downtown square, which claims to be the biggest in the nation, also has a movie theater, as well as several shops and eating establishments. Up until just a couple of years ago, Graham was one of the few towns left in the state that was dry, meaning no one could sell wine or beer.

• Population of Graham: ~8,765 people

Bastrop is part of the Greater Austin area, and its population is 7,218. This charming place is full of historical homes, lovely shops, a state park, art galleries, annual community events, and The Bastrop Advertiser, which is the oldest continuously published weekly newspaper in the state.

Furthermore, several films have been filmed in this location over the years, such as The Texas Chain Saw Massacre , Courage Under Fire, Michael, Hope Floats, Bernie and Boyhood, and director Richard Linklater is even from Bastrop.

• Population of Bastrop: ~7,218 people

Albany is an additional cute town in Texas, and it has just under 2,000 residents. Like the other spots that have been listed out here today, there is a great square full of boutiques, as well as a gorgeous courthouse.

One of the biggest draws in Albany is the Fort Griffin Fandangle, which happens each year in June in order to give the history of Fort Griffin, a military outpost in the area that now functions as a state park. As the oldest outdoor musical in the state, this show combines the American West, catchy songs, humor, and a true look back through time.

• Population of Albany: ~ 1,927 people

RELATED: 10 Haunted Spots In Texas

Dripping Springs

About 4,800 people live in Dripping Springs, near Austin, and it has become a real tourist destination. It is the state’s wedding capital. It is full of wineries, breweries, and distilleries. It is also the state’s first Dark Sky Community, which has a lighting ordinance that has reduced outdoor lighting to a minimum since 2011.

There are also several celebrities from this Central Texas town, such as Kyle Chandler, Jesse James, and Jensen and Danneel Ackles, who own the Family Business Beer Company in Dripping Springs.

• Population of Dripping Springs: ~4,787 people

Near Fort Worth, people can find Granbury, which is another little spot that is full of charm and history. There are just over 11,400 people in this town, and a good amount of the buildings found on the downtown square are historical landmarks.

One of these is the iconic Granbury Opera House, which actually puts on productions. Additionally, Davy Crockett's wife, Elizabeth, lived here in the 1800s and is buried here at the Acton State Historic Site, Texas’ smallest state park.

• Population of Granbury: ~11,424 people

One of the most unique places to visit in Texas , there is one small town that boasts tons of activity, despite housing less than 100 permanent residents. That small Texas town would be Round Top, with just 91 residents. This place is best known for pie at the Royers Round Top Café and for the Round Top Antiques Fair; this event happens every spring and fall, it draws in tons of people from around the country, and it features booth after booth of antiques.

Speaking of antiques, Round Top is also home to the Junk Gypsy Company, as these design stars have a store and an inn in this location. With such unusual activities to enjoy, it's no wonder Round Top is one of the best small towns in Texas.

• Population of Round Top: ~91 people

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Charming and Historic Small Texas Towns

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Having been ruled by six countries, including its own sovereign government, it's no surprise that Texas has developed a diverse and interesting history. Much of the history that shaped the Lone Star State took place in towns that are relatively small by modern standards. When non-Texas think of the state of Texas, the larger cities often come to mind: Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio. Luckily, there's more to the small-town Texas charm than the eye can see, whether traveling through on a road trip, taking a solo trip, or looking for some family fun. In fact, there are many notable small and historic Texas towns for travelers to visit.

Small Town Charm

These tiny Texas towns have unique communities like antique shows, music halls, and famous rodeos. Travelers are encouraged to explore some of the hidden cultures that historic Texas towns can offer, whether it's a sleepy town, entertainment spot, or just an ordinary place with countryfolk. Visitors looking to get a feel for Texas history should hit the backroads and visit the list of tiny towns below.

Known as the "Cradle of Texas Independence," the tiny town of Gonzales still celebrates its prominent place in Texas history today. Gonzales is a small historic town located in the southeast area of Texas . There are many museums and centers to visit such as the Old Jail Museum and ​Pioneer Village Living History Center.​​

This historic town is full of inns, shops, and places to dine, along with attractions like cemeteries, walking and driving tours, monuments, and other recreational activities.

The site of one of the most infamous battles of the Texas Revolution, Goliad, is a top spot for history buffs traveling through Texas. Goliad is the third oldest municipality in Texas and is the County Seat of Goliad County, which is one of the oldest counties in all of the state.

The original name for Goliad was Santa Dorotea, noted by the Spaniards in the 16th century. It was then changed to Goliad in 1829 with religious origins. Famous places to visit include the Goliad State Park and the General Ignacio Zaragoza state park and historic site.

Port Isabel

Originally known as "Point Isabel," this seaside town and its famous lighthouse date back to the early 1800s. There are several lighthouses, piers, boardwalks, and history museums to visit, such as the Port Isabel Lighthouse, Pirate's Landing Fishing Pier, and the Port Isabel Historical Museum.

The top restaurants recommended grabbing a bite at including Joe's Oyster Bar, Los Tortugo's Seafood Market, and Marcello's Italian Restaurant.

Nacogdoches

The oldest town in Texas, Nacogdoches, was originally a Spanish settlement. Over the years, Nacogdoches has blended Southern hospitality with its Spanish heritage to make it a uniquely " Texas town."

Nacogdoches offers secluded cabins, comfortable cottages, and even Victorian-style mansions for a trip away from home. There are several recreational activities to explore in the outdoors and plenty of day trips to take nearby, such as to the Henderson Oil Field Tour.

Presidio means garrison or fort in Spanish, which is what the town of Presidio originally was in colonial times. Amazingly, tiny Presidio hasn't grown or changed that much over the years.

Nevertheless, there are plenty of expeditions to take both on the Rio Grande, at the Big Bend State Ranch , and at the National Park. Presidio is a great place to get some BBQ and explore authentic Mexican food after a day of exploration.

Floresville

Floresville is a popular spot for history buffs. This tiny South Texas Town features a number of historic landmarks and buildings, many of which are still in use today. Floresville is located outside of San Antonio, north of oil and gas areas, from the Eagle Ford Shale region.

This small community was originally named Lodi and was discovered in 1867. It is known as the Peanut Capital of Texas where the annual Peanut Festival is held.

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