The process of crafting this blog on day trips to small towns from Austin revealed an unexpected twist from its original concept. The enthusiasm was palpable as details about Burnet’s captivating attractions, dining establishments, and historical landmarks flowed effortlessly onto the screen. However, with the passage of hours and the accumulation of a thousand words, a realization dawned— the blog had expanded beyond manageable proportions, fixating solely on one town. Adjustments became imperative. The encompassing charm of the Hill Country’s small towns, numerous and distinct, demanded an exclusive blog to truly do them justice. In essence, this compilation seeks to unveil the primary day trips to small towns from Austin. Let’s delve into the exploration…
Burnet
Distance: 80 km (50 miles) northwest of Austin
Covering a distance of 80 km (50 miles) northwest of Austin, you’ll find the Burnet Farmers and Craft Market nestled in the town square. Operating every Saturday from May to mid-November, the market welcomes visitors from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Pronounced as “Burnit,” this hidden gem of the Highland Lakes region is poised to fulfill your day trip aspirations. Situated on the fringes of the Hill Country, the historic town of Burnet preserves its pioneer heritage and architectural allure. A prime highlight is Burnet’s historic town square, which boasts distinctive shopping and dining opportunities. The picturesque countryside comes alive with verdant parks, vibrant wildflowers, and inviting wineries.
Noteworthy Places to Explore:
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Inks Lake State Park | 3630 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet, TX 78611 |
| Longhorn Cavern State Park | 6211 Park Road 4 S, Burnet, TX 78611 |
| Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park | 16942 Ranch Road 2341, Burnet, TX 78611-3168 |
| Fort Croghan Grounds and Museum | 703 Buchanan Dr, Burnet, TX 78611 |
| Perissos Vineyard and Winery | 7214 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet, TX 78611 |
Driftwood
Distance: 39 km (24 miles) southwest of Austin
Located just 39 km (24 miles) southwest of Austin, Driftwood shares both adjacency and a rich Texan history with Dripping Springs. One standout gem in Driftwood is the renowned Salt Lick, a barbeque restaurant that originated in 1967. The restaurant alone is an attraction, boasting the added charm of housing Salt Lick Cellars, which introduced a tasting room in 2009. This establishment has flourished into one of the region’s largest restaurants while remaining family-operated.
Behind the restaurant’s success lies a heartwarming love story. Thurman Roberts, Sr. and his wife, Hisako, forged their connection in Hawaii, where Thurman was stationed. Settling in Driftwood, the couple aimed to make the town their permanent home. With this aspiration in mind, Thurman and Hisako penned 54 ideas on a legal pad, all aimed at sustaining a life in Driftwood. The concept of a barbeque restaurant claimed the 14th spot on their list, thus giving birth to Salt Lick. The sauce, a reflection of Hisako’s Japanese heritage, blended seamlessly with Thurman’s traditional, slow-smoking techniques passed down from his grandmother, resulting in culinary magic among the Hills.
Driftwood also boasts a collection of wineries and distilleries to explore.
Noteworthy Places to Explore:
- The Original Salt Lick – 18300 Farm to Market Rd 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619 (cash only)
Dripping Springs
Distance: 43 km (27 miles) west of Austin
Situated 43 km (27 miles) to the west of Austin, the telltale sign on Main Street announces Dripping Springs’ presence. Often hailed as the “Gateway to Hill Country,” Dripping Springs extends across a broad area. However, the quaint downtown area hosts an array of shops with welcoming staff. Every store entrance greeted us with a hearty “howdy,” while warm wishes of “have a good day y’all” accompanied our departure. It’s worth noting that shopping here leans toward the pricier side compared to other neighboring small towns. The town finds itself encircled by a multitude of distilleries, breweries, and wineries. Dripping Springs holds the title of the “Wedding Capital of Texas,” owing to its scenic splendor that offers perfect backdrops for exquisite wedding photos.
Noteworthy Places to Explore:
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Texas Hill Country Olive Company | 2530 W Fitzhugh, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 |
| Treaty Oak Distillery | 16604 Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 |
| Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve | 24300 Hamilton Pool Road, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 |
| Reimer’s Ranch Park | 23610 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 |
Fredericksburg
Distance: 131 km (81 miles) west of Austin
Covering a span of 131 km (81 miles) to the west of Austin, the Memorial Courtyard of the National Museum of the Pacific War stands adorned with commemorative plaques on the Memorial Wall, an honor bestowed upon those who valiantly served their country during World War II.
“Willkommen!” Greets Fredericksburg, a small town that resonates with Texas spirit and a vibrant German essence, captivating tourists year-round. Echoes of German heritage resound in the town’s eateries and beer gardens. Equally celebrated are Fredericksburg’s succulent peaches. The downtown’s sensory tapestry, a harmonious fusion of Texan and German allure, beckons with flavors, sounds, and aromas. Whether you crave the quintessence of Texan cuisine or seek the allure of a Biergarten’s German charm, the abundance of options along the main street ensures gratification.
Noteworthy Places to Explore:
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| National Museum of the Pacific War/Memorial Wall/Avenue of the Presidents/Japanese Memorial Garden | 328 E. Main, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 |
| Veteran’s Walk of Honor | Located in the Memorial Courtyard of the National Museum of the Pacific War |
| Wine Road 290 | Fredericksburg 290 (17 wineries minutes apart on US 290) |
| Enchanted Rock State Natural Area | 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 |
| Luckenbach | 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Fredericksburg, TX 79624 |
Luckenbach, known for its “everybody’s somebody in Luckenbach” ethos, could certainly secure a place on the list of small-town day trips from Austin. With a population that boasts a mere “3,” this minuscule town boasts a dance hall, post office, and general store. Seize a lawn chair and savor the melodies at the free music venue where guitars serenade daily. Beneath the sheltering oak trees, let your worries dissipate. From 1995 to 1999, Willie Nelson hosted his legendary Fourth of July Picnic here. For the latest performer and event details, visit luckenbachtexas.com.
Johnson City
Distance: 82 km (51 miles) west of Austin
Named after former President Lyndon B. Johnson, this petite yet vibrant Texan town embodies his personality as it stands as his birthplace. Embark on a tour of his childhood home and the Texas White House premises. Be sure to verify the schedule, as our visit saw the Texas White House closed for maintenance. The Johnson Settlement is a must-explore, even for those unfamiliar with President Johnson. This is your chance to observe the iconic Texas Longhorn cattle up close—just remember to maintain a safe distance from those formidable horns. An intriguing facet is how the town harmoniously incorporates the homestead; Johnson City thrives in the embrace of its historic farm. Exploring the homestead and settlement comes free of charge.
Highlighted Points of Interest:
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park | 1048 Park Road #49, Stonewall, TX 78671 |
| Pedernales Falls State Park (pronounced Perdehnahless) | 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636 |
| Pecan Street Brewing | 106 E Pecan, Johnson City, TX 78636 |
Salado
Distance: 82 km (51 miles) north of Austin
Dubbed as the “Jewel in the Crown of Texas,” this small town within The Lone Star State easily clinches the title of our favorite. Our multiple visits to Salado still haven’t scratched the surface of its numerous shops, restaurants, cafes, and breweries. The town’s allure is simply captivating, boasting an enchanting vibe that effortlessly balances a bustling energy with a warm friendliness. An air of sophistication mingles with a laid-back ambiance, creating a unique atmosphere that’s both upscale and unpretentious.
Taking a drive through the residential quarters offers a glimpse of the charming Texan homes and their inviting yards. Moreover, Salado’s expansive landscapes of old and new homes provide an unparalleled sensation distinct from other Texan towns, showcasing an individuality that veers away from the mundane.
Noteworthy Places to Explore:
- Stagecoach Inn – 416 S Main St, Salado, TX 76571 (You must try the burger);
- Strawberry Patch – 171 S Main St, Salado, TX 76571 – Our favourite store in Texas (and the BEST coffee, Texas Gold). Sadly, the store will be closing in January 2020; however, you will still be able to order coffee online;
- The Barton House Restaurant – 101 N. Main St, Salado, TX 76571;
- Salado Antique Mall – 751 N Stagecoach Rd, Salado, TX 76571 (I-35 frontage North);
- The Shed – 220 Royal St, Salado, TX 76571;
- Salado Lone Star Winery & Chupacabra Craft Beer – 401 S Main St #105, Salado, TX 76571.
Small-Town Travel Tip: To prevent any letdown, steer clear of visiting Salado on Monday or Tuesday, as numerous stores take a breather from the bustling weekend flow.
Wimberley
Distance: 61 km (38 miles) southwest of Austin
Prepare to be captivated by the vibrant energy of Wimberley, predominantly through its spectacular Market Days event. Let it be known that we’ve encountered few outdoor markets as expansive as this one. Encompassing 475 vendors spread across 16 sprawling acres, it’s a treasure trove brimming with delights, from farm-fresh produce to captivating antiques. Amidst the charming and rustic shanty town ambience, one can easily lose oneself in hours of treasure hunting. Beyond the shopping extravaganza, the venue features a convenient beer garden, a lively music stage, ATMs, and well-placed porta-potties. Grab a map from the tourist information booth; it’s an essential tool to navigate the vast expanse.
Wimberley’s traffic and ceaseless bustle might initially astound you. Consider parking at the Visitor Information center and embarking on a delightful stroll across the bridge to the heart of the town square. It’s worth noting that this town square deviates from the conventional, characterized by multiple short streets branching in every direction, each adorned with captivating and eclectic boutiques awaiting exploration.
Keep an eye out for the distinctive oversized painted cowboy boots scattered throughout the town. These “Bootfiul Wimberley” installations originated in 2014 to spotlight the arts and enhance cultural tourism. Following the town’s near-devastation in the 2018 flood, these boots took on a new purpose as fundraisers. A total of 50 boots stand as symbols of resilience and creativity. How many can you uncover?
Noteworthy Places to Explore:
| Notable Attractions | Address |
|---|---|
| Jacob’s Well Natural Area | 1699 Mount Sharp Rd, Wimberley, TX 78676 |
| Cypress Creek Nature Trail | Off the main square along the creek. |
| Blue Hole Regional Park | 100 Blue Hole Lane, Wimberley, TX 78676 |
| Old Baldy | 33 LaToya Trail, Wimberley, TX 78676 |
Small-town Day Trips from Austin, Texas
Every town bears the essence of Texas, yet each one radiates its own unique character. A unifying thread that gracefully weaves through these charming locales is the embodiment of Texas hospitality. Above all, amidst these small towns, you’ll find Texans radiating warmth and openness, a shared sentiment that remains constant. Be it an affinity for culinary delights, beverages, shopping sprees, scenic hikes, or historical treasures, one certainty prevails: Texans exude a welcoming spirit. Their friendliness, humor, and genuine passion for life will indelibly shape your sojourn to any Hill Country small town, rendering it an unforgettable experience. With eager anticipation, we look forward to returning for more.
Conclusion
The diverse and charming small towns surrounding Austin offer a wealth of captivating experiences for day trips. Burnet welcomes you with its historic town square and picturesque countryside, while Driftwood entices with its renowned Salt Lick and wineries. Dripping Springs, the “Gateway to Hill Country,” boasts a variety of shops and scenic backdrops, perfect for weddings. Fredericksburg, with its German essence, offers a blend of Texan and German allure, accompanied by unique culinary experiences. Johnson City, birthplace of President Lyndon B. Johnson, invites you to explore history and nature side by side. Salado stands out as a sophisticated yet unpretentious gem, while Wimberley captivates with its expansive Market Days and vibrant energy. Each of these towns offers a distinct and memorable journey into the heart of Texas culture and heritage.
