Small towns with Southern charm, some of Central Texas’ most acclaimed wineries and miles of scenic views can be found just outside of Austin. Enjoy the cool fall weather with a weekend trip to one of these Hill Country Destinations.
1. Fredericksburg
This cute Hill Country town has much to offer visitors, including a short drive to Enchanted Rock, intriguing historical monuments, eclectic shops, tasting rooms and restaurants. Start the day off with a slice of pie from Fredericksburg Pie Co before exploring the Japanese Garden of Peace and Pioneer Memorial Library. Grab an authentic German bite to eat from Auslander and a drink from Becker Vineyard Tasting Room or Fredericksburg Brewery and head out to shop at the Fredericksburg General Store or one of its neighboring shops.
2. Wimberley
Known for its extensive art scene and multitude of galleries, Wimberley is a great Hill Country spot for shopping and dining or swimming at Blue Hole Regional Park or Jacob’s Well nearby. Grab a taste of Texas Hill Country wine at Wimberley Valley Winery before you head to the town center and peruse art galleries like Wandering Oaks Fine Art Gallery and Bent Tree Gallery. Wimberley Cafe is the perfect spot to grab a light bite or coffee before heading out to shop at Must Haves Boutique or Santa Fe Connections.
3. Gruene
The perfect town for a day trip or weekend stay, Gruene boasts old Texas Charm. Best known for Gruene Hall and Gruene Water Tower, the town is well-known for the food served up at Gristmill overlooking the river. The wait can get long, but The Grapevine tasting room and main street shops like Gruene General Store will help you pass the time.
4. Kerrville
Full of gorgeous natural scenery and scenic spaces, Kerrville is home to Kerrville-Schreiner Park — a state park where you can camp, swim, kayak and hike. The Museum of Western Art promotes Western Heritage through art, and the Riverside Nature Center is a wonderful free attraction in the area. Grab a bite to eat or drink at Rails A Cafe at the Depot or Kerrville Hills Winery before spending the afternoon exploring Sunrise Antique Mall, The Coming King Sculpture Prayer Garden or Cailloux Theater.
5. New Braunfels
Home to Schlitterbahn Waterpark and Wurstfest, New Braunfels embodies its historic the German heritage through its architecture and cuisine. Take a photo or two at Main Plaza while enjoying coffee from New Braunfels Coffee and a sweet treat from Naegelin’s Bakery, or visit Krause’s Cafe & Biergarten for a meal. If you have time for a game of golf, head to Landa Park Golf Course.
6. Marble Falls
Marble Falls is best known for its proximity to Pace Bend Park and many homestyle eateries to enjoy with friends and family after a long day of boating. Get your fix of lake fun at Jolly Rodgers Paddle Co. or Lakeside Park before heading to lunch at River City Grille or Blue Bonnet Cafe. For happy hour, stop by Double Horn Brewing Company or Save the World Brewing Company.
7. Dripping Springs
Dripping Springs is considered the entryway into the Texas Hill Country, with famous attractions including The Salt Lick BBQ and Hamilton Pool Preserve. Be sure to stop by one of the nearby wineries or distilleries such as Solaro Estate Winery, Bell Springs Winery or Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery.
8. Round Top
Best known for its bi-annual antique fair, Round Top is perfect for the personality that loves to mozy into galleries and shops. Copper Shade Tree and The Humble Donkey Studio are a few notable galleries, while specialty shops like Junk Gypsy and Porch Office Antiques have plenty of unique finds to gift or enjoy for yourself. Do a wine tasting at Fall Creek Vineyards, or grab a slice of pie from Royer’s Pie Haven.