In between San Antonio and Austin, lies the vast land known as the Texas Hill Country. With its rolling hills and natural beauty, this region oozes with true Texas charm, from sparkling rivers to stunning wineries. If you visit any of these ten towns, you'll be blown away by the lush landscapes and outdoor adventures that await you!
Updated April 2022
GRUENE
GRUENE
Pronounced like the color "Green", Gruene, Texas is the German historic district of New Braunfels. Set on the Guadalupe River, fishing and floating down the river are a given. Two step your heart out at the iconic Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas after having the best ribs and fried chicken steak of your life at the Gristmill River Restaurant where you can sit riverside!
Photo courtesy Gruene Hall
FREDERICKSBURG
FREDERICKSBURG
With over fifty wineries in the area, Fredericksburg is the main event of the beautiful Texas Wine Country. You can feel the German soul of the town through its food and historical architecture. Grab a bite to eat at Otto's for some authentic German food after shopping up and down adorable Main Street!After a day of wine tasting at the Signor Vineyards, get some handcrafted goodies from Joanna's Market and be sure to snap a pic at the famous Wine Barn on the way out!
DRIPPING SPRINGS
DRIPPING SPRINGS
Right outside of Austin, Dripping Springs is considered the "Gateway to the Hill Country". Take a weekend long nature retreat in this tranquil town, you'll be in awe of the natural beauty that it has to offer. Set up camp at Pedernales Falls State Park before going on a horseback riding tour, or go swimming or hiking near the limestone bluffs of the Hamilton Pool Preserve. Sipping in Dripping is a must at the various breweries, wineries and distilleries in the region, one of the most popular being the iconic Deep Eddy Distillery.
GEORGETOWN
GEORGETOWN
Famous for having the best town square in Texas, Georgetown is the ideal day trip from Austin. From the Red Poppy Festival in the Spring to the Christmas Stroll Parade in the Winter, there is so much to do here year round. Splash around in the lagoons of Blue Hole Park or embrace your inner adventurer and explore the unique formations of the Inner Space Cavern. On your way out of town, stop by the Monument Cafe for some good old comfort food and be sure to snag one of their famous cinnamon rolls before they run out!
Photo courtesy of Aquila Commercial
MARBLE FALLS
MARBLE FALLS
In the heart of the Hill Country, Marble Falls is the perfect summertime destination. The incredible historic downtown district is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and even wineries too. Start your leisurely day at the Sweet Berry Farm for strawberry picking & sunflower fields before heading to the famous Blue Bonnet Cafe for the best pies and chicken fried steak in all of Texas. Pop over to Horseshoe Bay for a day on Lake LBJ and stay for dinner at the Yacht Club with lakeside views.
Photo courtesy of TexasHillCountry
BLANCO
BLANCO
As the lavender capital of Texas, Blanco is truly a magical little town. When the fields bloom in the spring, you'll feel like you've been transported to the French countryside of Provence. Come for the Summer Lavender Festival, but stay for the bbq at Old 300 on the historic town square.
Photo courtesy of Texas Hill Country
BURNET
BURNET
Burnet is a Texas town for the true adventurer. Home of the famous Camp Longhorn, see the gorgeous grounds of Inks Lake before a day off fun in the sun full of swimming, boating, and cliff jumping. Set out on an underground escapade at the Longhorn Cavern or the aquatic journey of a Vanishing River Cruise on beautiful Lake Buchanan to see the wildlife and waterfalls.
BOERNE
BOERNE
Boerne, Texas is a town that will entertain history buffs and foodies alike. Stroll down Hill Country Mile and pop into the boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants. Start at the Cibolo Creek Brewing Company for lunch and a local brew before grabbing a sweet treat at the Bear Moon Bakery. Venture out to the Cascade Caverns or the Kuhlmann King Historical House to learn the story of some of the first German immigrants in Texas.
Photo courtesy of City of Boerne
WIMBERLEY
WIMBERLEY
There is so much to see and do in whimsical Wimberley, Texas. Visit Jacob's Well, the famous swimming hole with crystal clear water and Blue Hole, known for its vibrant teal hues. Who knew such a small town could have so many well known watering holes! After your aquatic adventure, climb Old Baldy Mountain for some hill country views or go shopping for hidden gems at Market Days, one of the oldest outdoor markets in the state.
Photo courtesy of Visit Austin
LOCKHART
LOCKHART
As the barbecue capital of Texas, you better bring your appetite with you to Lockhart. If you're a true bbq lover, stop at all four famous spots starting with the oldest, Black's Barbecue, Chisholm Trail BBQ, Smitty's Market, and Kreuz Market. Work off your brisket and mac n cheese at the Lockhart State Park with some fishing and hiking near the creeks or golfing at the stunning nine hole golf course.
Photo courtesy of Kreuz Market