road trip through texas hill country

4 Terrific Texas Hill Country Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

Planning a Texas Hill Country road trip?

You’re in for a magical experience!

The Hill Country is one of my favorite places on the planet and incorporates everything from whimsical small towns to magical swimming holes, from magnificent rivers to a national historic site, from fantastic wildflowers to some of the absolute best food on the planet.

I’ve spent countless days on road trips in the Texas Hill Country when living in both San Antonio and Austin.

Here are the best Hill Country road trip itinerary ideas to help you start exploring this magical corner of Texas!

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.

How We Structured These Texas Hill Country Road Trips

There are truly limitless numbers of ways to design a Texas Hill Country road trip, and once you account for all of the lakes, small towns, swimming holes, barbecue joints, waterfalls, and beyond, it can easily take a lifetime to discover all of the secret corners and hidden gems that the region has to offer.

That being said, we’ve designed these road trips in the Hill Country to show off the most remarkable corners of the region.

These road trips are targeted to first-time visitors to the region, but even locals (myself included) are bound to find plenty to love here.

We’ve structured each road trip to last for 5 days, though of course, you can easily add or subtract days depending on how long you have available to road trip the Hill Country.

Each route begins in either Austin or San Antonio, and at the beginning of each itinerary, we’ve noted which.

However, since the drive from Austin to San Antonio is both short and (if you take the scenic route) beautiful, you can easily adjust each road trip to your preferred starting point.

Each of these Texas Hill Country road trips is fairly geographically compact, and it’s rare for a point-to-point drive to last longer than 2 hours.

Additional Texas Hill Country Travel Resources

We’ve intentionally kept this guide to road trips in the Texas Hill Country fairly high-level, and avoid getting bogged down into too many details about how to spend time in a particular place.

When you are ready to plan your stays in certain destinations in detail, though, we have you covered!

We’ll link our guides to specific cities, towns, state parks, and more throughout this travel guide, such as our guides to the best things to do in Fredericksburg , Wimberley , and Boerne .

Other guides, like our suggestions on the best things to do in the Hill Country or our guide to visiting Enchanted Rock , will also be included.

You can also use the search bar in the top-right hand corner of the screen (or on mobile, as part of the main menu) in order to search for any destination that we’ve covered here on Lone Star Travel Guide!

The Best Road Trips in the Texas Hill Country

The classic texas hill country road trip.

Starting Point: Austin

Day 1: Dripping Springs + Waterfalls

Start your Hill Country road trip in Dripping Springs, the self-declared “Gateway to the Hill Country” and home to the famous Hamilton Pool!

On your way, stop in Driftwood for Salt Lick BBQ, then set off to go chase waterfalls.

In addition to Hamilton Pool, Westcave Preserve is also nearby and is home to one of the most–if not  the most–stunning waterfall in Texas . 

Day 2: Pedernales Falls State Park + LBJ National Historic Area

A mix of history and beautiful nature awaits on the second day of this Texas Hill Country itinerary!

Start your morning enjoying beautiful river views and subtle waterfalls in popular Pedernales Falls State Park, and then head to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park to visit the former president’s birthplace, ranch, the famous Texas White House, and more.

On your way to the main park, be sure to stop in Johnson City to briefly check out the Johnson Family Homestead (the home of LBJ’s grandparents and part of the national historical park).

You’ll also find a wine castle in Johnson City if you’d like to break up your day.

Day 3: Fredericksburg + Wine Road 290

The ultimate classic Texas Hill Country itinerary destination is the beautiful town of Fredericksburg .

Known for its German heritage (complete with German food!), many museums, access to dozens of the best wineries on Wine Road 290, and proximity to popular stops like Enchanted Rock and Luckenbach, it makes a fantastic central attraction to your road trip.

Check into a beautiful bed and breakfast in Fredericksburg , head to Main Street, and start exploring immediately!

Day 4: Boerne + Guadalupe River State Park

From one beloved Hill Country town to the next: from Fredericksburg, head to charming Boerne to shop the Hill Country mile and to visit one of the most beautiful caves in Texas .

Both Cascade Caverns and Cave Without a Name are located in Boerne and are a great way to experience a totally different side of the Hill Country.

In the afternoon, head over to beautiful Guadalupe River State Park for a little hiking and–depending on the season– tubing or even leaf-peeping .

Day 5: Wimberley and/or Canyon Lake

To wrap up your Hill Country vacation, head to the delightful town of Wimberley !

While you’re there, browse the many galleries and shops, enjoy views from Mount Baldy , and (during the summer) go for a swim in one of the town’s legendary swimming holes.

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the many painted boot statues around town, either!

During your drive from Boerne to Wimberley, consider also stopping to spend some time at gorgeous Canyon Lake .

Waterfalls + Swimming Holes Road Trip

Day 1: dripping springs + hamilton pool.

This TX Hill Country road trip is all about waterfalls and swimming holes–two things the region does exceptionally well.

Like the above itinerary, start your trip in Dripping Springs, the self-declared “Gateway to the Hill Country” and home to the famous Hamilton Pool.

On your way, stop in Driftwood for Salt Lick BBQ, then set off to go chase waterfalls, starting with Hamilton Pool.

Day 2: Westcave Preserve + Pedernales Falls State Park

On the second day of your road trip, get started with a visit to Westcave Preserve, home to one of the most magnificent hidden gems in Texas!

You’ll need to plan ahead and make a reservation to visit this waterfall, but it’s worth it.

From there, spend the afternoon at Pedernales Falls State Park.

In addition to the main falls, you can also take a short hike to visit the beautiful Twin Falls (though fair warning, you can’t get too close to this one).

Day 3-4: Wimberley

Wimberley is one of the most popular small towns in the Hill Country for good reason.

With tons of art galleries, great food, and two of the most popular swimming holes in Texas ( Jacob’s Well and the Blue Hole ), a couple of days in Wimberley is bound to leave you smitten.

Be sure to take the time (you won’t need much of it) to climb Mount Baldy , too!

Day 5: Canyon Lake and/or McKinney Falls

Whether you want to dive into one of the most beautiful lakes in Texas or go swimming amongst the delightful McKinney Falls, the final day of your Texas Hill Country road trip is bound to charm!

Looking for something a little different and visiting during lavender season ?

Blanco , AKA the lavender capital of Texas, would also make a great stop and boasts a swimming hole of its own!

State Parks + Horseback Riding Road Trip

Starting Point: San Antonio

Day 1-2: Bandera Dude Ranch

What could be more iconic on a Texas Hill Country itinerary than spending a couple of nights at a dude ranch?

The self-declared Cowboy Capital of the World is home to several world-class dude ranches where you can stretch your riding skills, learn about the care and keeping of the ranch, and eat excellent home-cooked meals while staying in cozy cabins.

Day 2-3: Garner State Park

As one of the most beloved state parks in Texas , stunning Garner State Park is known for tubing and swimming in the gorgeous Frio River, as well as for its hikes like the popular Mount Baldy.

Float the river one day and hike the next at this beautiful park!

Day 4-5: Lost Maples State Natural Area

Known for having some of the most stunning fall foliage in Texas, Lost Maples State Natural Area is a magnificent addition to any Texas Hill Country road trip!

Don’t miss quirky Monkey Rock or the sweeping views from the East Trail during your visit!

Highland Lakes Hill Country Road Trip

Day 1: spicewood + lake travis.

Rather than heading southwest of Austin, this road trip turns north!

Start your day by heading to Spicewood , where you’ll find Krause Springs (one of the best swimming holes in Texas), delicious Opie’s Barbecue (order the sausage + cobbler), and beautiful Lake Travis views.

If it happens to be bluebonnet season, don’t miss Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area, and if you want great views, don’t miss Pace Bend Park (bring cash for the entry fee).

Alternatively, you could start your morning with a boat rental on Lake Travis and head to Spicewood once you wrap up!

Day 2: Marble Falls + Longhorn Cavern State Park

The small town of Marble Falls is known for its excellent bluebonnet blooms, the incredible pie at the famous Blue Bonnet Cafe, and its proximity to Lake LBJ and Longhorn Cavern State Park.

As one of the most unique-looking caves in Texas, touring Longhorn Cavern is a great way to mix up this lake-heavy Texas Hill Country itinerary.

Day 3: Inks Lake State Park

Popular Inks Lake State Park is perfect for swimming, hiking, or enjoying a boat day–all of which are excellent options for this day on your itinerary for the Texas Hill Country.

Consider taking a short hike to visit (and swim at) the beautiful Devils Waterhole while you’re there!

Day 4: Llano + Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Start your morning with a visit to downtown Llano , where you’ll find everything from one of the most beautiful courthouses in Texas to gorgeous views of the Llano River to lots of interesting street art on Shakedown Street!

After having an excellent barbecue lunch at Cooper’s Old Time Pit BBQ or nearby Inman’s Kitchen, head over to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to climb the most famous piece of granite in Texas.

Day 5: Burnet + Lake Buchanan

Above all, the small town of Burnet, Texas is known for its Bluebonnet Festival each spring–but it’s a delight to explore year-round!

Be sure to visit Fort Crogan for some hands-on 19th century Texas history, and then potentially visit either the Highland Lake Squadron Commemorative Air Force to see historic aircraft or the Hill Country Motorheads Motorcycle Museum.

In the afternoon, hop on a boat tour to visit the Falls Creek Waterfall in Lake Buchanan, which just may be one of the best hidden gems in the Hill Country!

Texas Hill Country Road Trip Tips

Don’t change hotels every night..

We’ve intentionally designed these road trips in the Texas Hill Country to be geographically compact, so there’s no reason to move hotels every night!

Depending on your itinerary, we recommend staying in 1-3 hotels (or bed and breakfasts, or cabins, or treehouses) throughout your 5 day trip.

Plan your activities around the season.

From bluebonnet season to peach season to swimming hole season to fall foliage season , there’s always something special happening in the Hill Country, and your road trip will be greatly enhanced by planning your visit around when you’re visiting!

In April, for example, we’d absolutely choose to head to the Highland Lakes for their legendary bluebonnet blooms.

Meanwhile, in late October, Lost Maples State Natural Area’s famous foliage is the clear winner.

Be very cautious when driving at night.

Driving in the Hill Country at night means lots of dark country roads, limited street lights, and plenty of wildlife that like to wander into the road.

Pay close attention when driving at night!

You may need reservations.

Popular swimming holes like Hamilton Pool, Jacob’s Well , and the Blue Hole all require reservations to swim in (and in the case of Hamilton Pool, even to visit).

Other attractions like Enchanted Rock and some wineries may require reservations as well, so be sure to book in advance when planning your road trip in the Hill Country!

Don’t spend your whole Texas Hill Country road trip on the road!

While the Hill Country is a fairly compact region, you can still end up overstretching your itinerary if you try to see the whole region from end to end in less than a week!

We highly recommend focusing on one small corner of the region during a fairly short Texas Hill Country road trip to ensure that you spend most of your time exploring rather than on the road.

1 thought on “4 Terrific Texas Hill Country Road Trip Itinerary Ideas”

i would lov to do a 4 day road trip leaving san antonio & back on backroads please advise if you can

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip – A Detailed Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: 12/03/2024

Categories TEXAS , USA

A comprehensive guide to a Texas Hill Country road trip for anyone wanting to see the highlights of this stunning part of the Lone Star State. This epic itinerary for the Texas Hill Country will provide you with everything you need to help you make the most of your adventure.

Embarking on a road trip through the Texas Hill Country offers a great opportunity to experience the region’s diverse landscapes, which range from cascading waterfalls to rolling hills dotted with wildflowers.

The journey through this part of Texas is as much about the voyage itself as the destinations, where you can uncover the natural beauty and cultural aspects of the area.

With its winding roads meandering through scenic backdrops and past charming small towns, you will experience a journey of both relaxation and adventure.

Table of Contents

• 1 Why go on a Texas Hill Country road trip
• 2 Best time to do this Texas Hill Country road trip
• 3.1 Day 1 – San Antonio
• 3.2 Where to eat in San Antonio
• 3.3 Where to stay in San Antonio
• 4.1 Where to eat in Bandera
• 4.2 Where to stay in Bandera
• 5.1 Where to eat in Fredericksburg
• 5.2 Where to stay in Fredericksburg
• 6.1 Where to eat in the Johnson City and Dripping Springs area
• 6.2 Where to stay in Austin
• 7.1 Where to eat in Austin
• 7.2 Where to stay in Austin
• 8 Texas Hill Country road trip FAQs

Why go on a Texas Hill Country road trip

The Texas Hill Country offers a diversely rich experience for travellers. With a mixture of unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage, you can explore a combination of rolling hills, natural springs, and vibrant wildflowers, especially during spring.

You really are spoiled for choice with things to do like hiking across the scenic State Parks, strolling through quaint towns with whimsical charm, and immersing yourself in cowboy culture. 

But that’s not all. Tasting your way through the local vineyards, and experiencing true Texan hospitality and cuisine, without forgetting the deservedly world-famous BBQ, is a must too.

And no journey through the Texas Hill Country is complete without acknowledging the musical roots inherent in the region. Don’t miss enjoying some live country music in a rustic honky-tonk bar!

Best time to do this Texas Hill Country road trip

The Texas Hill Country offers distinct seasonal experiences, each with its own charm. The spring months are especially delightful due to the mild weather and the region’s famous wildflower bloom, including the celebrated bluebonnets.

During autumn you can enjoy a scenic drive with cooler temperatures and the rare sight of fall foliage in Texas. This period is a good time to visit, as it marks the start of the harvest for local vineyards, which is the perfect time for wine enthusiasts.

It’s best to avoid the peak of summer, when the heat can be quite intense, especially for those not used to Texan summers.

Each season in the Hill Country has its merits, but for a balance of pleasant weather and natural beauty, I’d recommend spring or autumn.

Texas Hill Country Road Trip itinerary

Day 1 – san antonio.

Starting in San Antonio sets the tone for an authentic Texan adventure. Spend your first day here, exploring historical landmarks, fascinating museums, and foodie Tex-Mex hotspots before setting off on this adventure.

The most famous attractions are the iconic Alamo , the Shrine of Texas Liberty, with centuries of history about the battle for Texan independence; and the San Antonio River Walk , a vibrant waterside promenade brimming with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

Wandering around Downtown you will also come across the Historic Market Square , which claims to be the largest Mexican market in the USA, offering an array of unique goods and a festive atmosphere.

The Alamo City has a lot of things to do, and one day would likely not be enough, so the best way to discover it when you are tight for time, is by joining a full-day historic tour of San Antonio . > Book your full-day historic tour of San Antonio here

San Antonio is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy so another great way to explore the city is by taking a tour that combines historic sites with the best Tex-Mex food .  > Book your San Antonio food and culture tour here

The San Antonio Missions are another UNESCO World Heritage Site that can be visited independently or with a tour . The advantage of joining a tour is that you will get a great insight into the history and the significance of the Missions. > Book your San Antonio Missions tour here 

Other places to visit in San Antonio

1. Briscoe Western Art Museum : This excellent museum celebrates the rich heritage of the American West with a fantastic collection of art and artefacts.

2. Witte Museum: Another great museum that houses interactive exhibits focused on science, history, and the indigenous culture of Texas.

Popular San Antonio Tours

Where to eat in san antonio.

Located on the San Antonio River Walk lining up the waterfront with vibrant, multi-coloured umbrellas is Casa Rio, the go-to spot for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine.

It opened its doors in 1946, which makes it the oldest restaurant on the River Walk. Casa Rio offers a wide array of Tex-Mex favourites. I had the veggie quesadilla and it was so good!

Their famous “regular plate” is a classic, and it comes with a cheese enchilada , a tamal , Mexican Rice, refried beans, and their famous chilli con carne. It’s the perfect choice for those wanting to sample a bit of everything.

Where to stay in San Antonio

San Antonio has so many options for accommodation that it would be hard to pick just one. I stayed at The Westin Riverwalk , which is conveniently located in a central and scenic location with stunning river views.   > Book The Westin Riverwalk in San Antonio here

These are other highly recommended places to stay in San Antonio

• Mokara Hotel & Spa – Nestled in the heart of San Antonio’s vibrant River Walk area, this lovely hotel is known for its beautiful rooms, top-tier spa services, and exceptional hospitality. Book it here
• Brackenridge House Bed and Breakfast – A charming and cosy retreat located in the historic King William District, just a stone’s throw from the famous River Walk. Book it here

Day 2 – Bandera and Dude Ranch

Day two of this Texas Hill Country road trip takes you to Bandera, ‘Cowboy Capital of the World’, where the spirit of the Wild West is alive and kicking. 

Bandera may be a small town, but it is much more than just a destination – it’s an experience steeped in cowboy culture and Texas heritage, and it is one of the best places to visit in Texas Hill Country .

Whether you’re a history buff, a shopping enthusiast, or someone who simply enjoys live music with a cold drink in hand, Bandera has something special for you.

While you are here, dive into Bandera’s fascinating past at the Frontier Times Museum . This isn’t your ordinary museum, it’s a treasure trove of captivating stories and unique exhibits that paint a vivid picture of life on the Texas frontier.

From early Native American artefacts to cowboy memorabilia and even a petrified cat, the museum offers an eclectic mix that’s sure to pique your curiosity.

For those who love to take a piece of their travels home, Spirits of Texas is your go-to spot. This charming shop is a homage to all things Texan. It offers a wide selection of items, from locally crafted goods to unique souvenirs.

Don’t miss a night out at Arkey Blue’s Silver Dollar . Tucked away beneath the historic Bandera Courthouse, this hidden gem is Texas’ oldest honky-tonk bar, and a proper spit and sawdust type of place.

It has live country music performances most evenings, so getting a drink and even hitting the dance floor is a must when in Bandera.

Another unmissable thing to do in Bandera, is experiencing the cowboy way of life at a dude ranch . I stayed at the Mayan Dude Ranch , a family-run guest ranch where you can truly immerse yourself and get involved in the lifestyle.

Horseback riding , learning to line dance , and joining the family and staff on their Texan BBQ dinner and cowboy breakfast were highlights of my Texas Hill Country road trip.

Other things to do in Bandera

1. Gunfight reenactment: Now, I’m not one to endorse gun use or ownership – quite the opposite. But watching the Bandera Cattle Company gunfight reenactment at Rattlesnake Ridge (back of the Visitor Center) is highly entertaining.

2. Texas Salt Co. : Sample a seemingly infinite amount of spiced and smoked salts at this unique shop. I guarantee that you will want to take some Cowboy Salt with you home, like I did.

Where to eat in Bandera

Old spanish trail restaurant.

For an authentic Texan dining experience, Old Spanish Trail (OST) Restaurant is the place to go in Bandera.

The OST has been serving hearty meals since 1921, making it the oldest continuously run restaurant in Bandera. The cowboy-themed decor is one of the attractions of this place too. You will not be able to resist saddling up at the bar.

Where to stay in Bandera

I stayed at the Mayan Dude Ranch , right outside the town on the banks of the Medina River. This ranch encapsulates the spirit of Texas with its variety of cowboy activities.

Indulge in a traditional cowboy breakfast outdoors, enjoy horse riding across the scenic landscape, and end the day with a delicious BBQ dinner under the vast Texan skies. > Book the Mayan Dude Ranch here

These are other highly recommended places to stay in Bandera

• The Vaquero Motel – With a Western-themed decor and hospitable atmosphere, the Vaquero Motel provides a unique lodging experience that reflects the local heritage and charm of Bandera. Book it here
• Bandera Tin Star – A small and charming retreat with three rooms named after legendary watering holes from Bandera’s colourful past. Book it here

Day 3 – Fredericksburg and Luckenbach

On day 3 of this Texas Hill Country road trip, you will be treated to the historic charms of Fredericksburg, and the iconic musical heartbeat of Luckenbach, Texas.

After enjoying a hearty cowboy breakfast at the Mayan Dude Ranch in Bandera, head to Fredericksburg, a town known for its rich German heritage, its picturesque streets, and a vibrant wine scene.

Learn about the history of the German settlers that founded this charming town at the Pioneer Museum . Wander through historic buildings, including homes, a schoolhouse, and a church, each meticulously preserved to offer a glimpse into the lives of early settlers.

The museum showcases hundreds of artefacts and exhibits, and also hosts live demonstrations, making history come alive before your eyes.

For foodies like me, Rustlin’ Rob’s Texas Gourmet Foods is an absolute paradise.

This family-owned store is a treasure trove of flavours. It has an astounding variety of sauces, salsas, jams, and spices that capture the essence of Texas cuisine. Sample some of their unique creations, like peach salsa or prickly pear jelly, and discover new favourites.

Fredericksburg is at the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the third largest American Viticultural Area (AVA) wine growing region in the US, with over 100 wineries , and it’s the perfect place to do some wine tasting.

But before we get to taste some of this surprisingly delicious Texan wine, take a little detour to Luckenbach, Texas , population: 3. 

This tiny town was founded by German farmers, including Jacob and August Luckenbach, almost 200 years ago. Today all that remains is the general store and the post office .

But Luckenbach is far from being a ghost town. Made famous by Waylong Jennings and Willie Nelson’s famous song ‘Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)’ back in the 70s, it is now the centre of some of the best country music in Texas.

Spend some time here drinking with visitors from all over the US and the world, at the bar at the back of the post office, and enjoy some incredible live music. The atmosphere is so contagious that you may even want to stay longer.

Once you’ve had your fill of country music, head to the vineyards to enjoy some of that Texan vino.

I was lucky to have a designated driver, so I visited the Texas Wine Collective , a cooperative of four local wineries with a tasting room where you can sample local wines, with or without a cheese pairing. I chose WITH cheese, of course!

Another well known winery to stop at is William Chris Vineyards , a family owned winery and vineyard operation nestled on the edge of Hye that uses 100% Texas grown fruit.

If you don’t have a designated driver, I would recommend joining this boutique winery experience , which includes pick up from your hotel. > Book your boutique winery experience here

Finish your day in Fredericksburg with more live music at the famous Hondo’s on Main . Named after the legendary Hondo Crouch , this spot is the heart and soul of Fredericksburg’s nightlife, offering live music that ranges from country to blues and everything in between. 

Other places to visit in Fredericksburg

1. National Museum of the Pacific War: A museum dedicated to all those who served in the Pacific War. It was recognized as the fifth-best history museum in the United States by USA Today readers.

2. St Mary’s Catholic Church: Founded in 1846 by a group of German settlers, this is one of the famous Painted Churches of Texas.

Popular tours in Fredericksburg

Where to eat in fredericksburg, sage restaurant and lounge.

For an exceptional culinary experience in Fredericksburg, I would highly recommend Sage Restaurant and Lounge . It serves contemporary American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Don’t miss the Texan red fish with Spanish chorizo and creamed corn. Super fresh and tasty!

Where to stay in Fredericksburg

I stayed at the most unique hotel on this whole Texas Hill Country road trip. Hangar Hotel is a boutique 40s aviation-themed hotel located on the runway of the Gillespie County Airport. The design has been inspired by a World War II aeroplane hangar and it’s stunning. > Book the Hangar Hotel here

These are other highly recommended places to stay in Fredericksburg

• Jolly’s Haus – Built in 1886, this historic stone house is conveniently located on Main Street, just a short walk from many shops and restaurants. It has two bedrooms and one bathroom, offering a cosy and convenient stay. Book it here
• Morningstar Ranch at Enchanted Rock – A large apartment perfect for groups and ideally located for the next morning’s adventure of climbing Enchanted Rock at dawn. Book it here

Day 4 – Enchanted Rock, Johnson City & Dripping Springs

Today has a little bit of everything. From the majestic Enchanted Rock, to the historical streets of Johnson City, and the serene beauty of Dripping Springs, each destination has a unique character. 

Start your day with a sunrise hike to the top of Enchanted Rock , a massive pink granite dome rising above Central Texas. It reminded me a lot of Pidurangula Rock in Sri Lanka.

Located within the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area , this geological marvel isn’t just a sight to behold. It’s steeped in rich Native American folklore and the 360-degree views from the top will literally take your breath away. 

But remember, that the Rock is as enchanting as it is popular, so arrive early before it gets too busy.

Head back down to Fredericksburg and on to Johnson City , a quaint town with deep roots in American history, famously known as the hometown of President Lyndon B. Johnson.

You may want to visit the LBJ National Historical Park to explore his boyhood home, which gives you an insight into his life and legacy, and stroll down the charming streets lined with art galleries, boutiques, and cosy eateries.

Johnson City also shines bright during the holiday season with its spectacular Christmas lights display, turning the town into a festive wonderland, so don’t miss it if you’re here over the holiday season.

Make Dripping Springs your next stop. Known as the ‘Gateway to Hill Country’, it is renowned for its rolling hills, crystal clear waters and lush landscapes.

If you have time for a refreshing dip, take a short detour to Hamilton Pool Preserve , a stunning natural swimming hole with a waterfall. 

Dripping Springs also boasts a growing culinary scene, which includes everything from rustic Texas barbecues to gourmet dining experiences.

Make the most of this, and head to one of the most famous BBQ joints in the area – The Salt Lick in Driftwood. Their meat is insanely good, but their Spicy BBQ sauce is out of this world!

End your day in Austin , so you can be ready to explore this really cool city the next day.

Other places to visit in the Johnson City and Dripping Springs area

1. Pedernales Falls State Park: Located 10 miles from Johnson City, this 5,000-acre state park sits on the banks of the Pedernales River. It’s said to be the most beautiful state park in the Hill Country.

2. Longhorn Cavern State Park: Longhorn Cavern is an underground wonder created by the cutting action of an ancient river. Enjoy a guided cave tour or go for a hike on one of the many trails.

Popular tours in the Johnson City and Dripping Springs area

Where to eat in the johnson city and dripping springs area, the salt lick bbq.

The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood is an obligatory stop. Patrons can savour the slow-smoked flavours of Texan barbecue, an iconic element of the state’s culinary tradition. But here, their recipes date back to the times of the wagon trains in the mid 1800s.

Whatever cut of meat you order here, it’s going to be mouthwateringly delicious. And don’t forget to try their Spicy BBQ Sauce. Possibly my favourite of all the ones I tried in Texas. And I tried a lot!

Where to stay in Austin

I stayed in the centrally located Fairmont Austin , a modern hotel within a glass building that offers sweeping views of the city, including Lady Bird Lake, the State Capitol, and Austin’s spectacular skyline. Don’t miss a dip in Austin’s largest rooftop pool.  > Book the Fairmont Austin here

These are other highly recommended places to stay in Austin

• The Driskill – The Driskill Hotel in Austin is more than a hotel. It’s a landmark of Texas luxury and history, offering guests an opulent stay right in the heart of downtown. Its stunning architecture and rich heritage come with their own ghost stories too! Book it here
• CitzenM Austin Downtown – This tech-savvy hotel is located in the vibrant heart of the city, with easy access to Austin’s bustling nightlife, foodie hotspots, and cultural attractions. Book it here

Day 5 – Austin

The final day of this Texas Hill Country road trip is reserved for Austin, the state capital. Known as the ‘Live Music Capital of the World’, Austin has a vibrant arts scene, unique museums, and boundless energy.

Austin’s soul beats with live music, echoing through the streets, bars, and venues across the city. 

There are a few areas of interest spread over a few neighbourhoods. So one of the best ways of getting a good feel for where the main attractions are, including the Texas Capitol , is by joining a driving tour of Austin with a local guide .

I took this tour and it was a great way of finding my bearings and getting insider tips and recommendations to go back and explore myself later. > Book your driving tour of Austin with a local guide here

Another great option to explore Austin is an e-bike tour where you get to see the sights and feel the vibes of the city on two wheels. > Book your Austin e-bike tour here

But if you prefer, you can explore the city independently too.

Head to the famous Sixth Street Historic District to experience the heart of Austin’s nightlife and live music scene. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to attend one of the many music festivals such as Austin City Limits and South by Southwest , where the city truly comes alive with sounds from around the globe.

Here you will also find murals dedicated to iconic artists that have played a big part in Austin’s musical history, such as Janis Joplin and Willie Nelson .

Stop by at The Driskill , a local institution, to admire its architecture and learn about the ghost that still haunts this historic hotel.

Head south of Lady Bird Lake to South Congress Avenue (SoCo) , a popular hangout for both locals and visitors that captures the essence of Austin’s rich history through its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, art spaces, and music spots.

Don’t miss a photo opportunity at the now iconic ‘i love you so much’ mural , and a bit of a spot of shopping for the finest Texan cowboy boots in town at Allens Boots .

For a bit of nature within the city, follow the Lady Bird Lake Trail , a hike and bike trail with stunning views of Austin’s skyline.

If you love water, stop at Barton Springs , a natural pool fed from underground springs with an average temperature of 20-21 C degrees. It’s a great place for a swim all year round.

If you are a wildlife lover, head to South Congress Bridge at dusk to watch a true spectacle of nature. As the sun sets, almost a million Mexican bats come out from under the bridge to eat their body weight in mosquitos.

In the evening, East Austin is the place to be. An eclectic neighbourhood where you’ll find all sorts of world cuisine and an array of entertainment venues.

Some venues worth a mention are Hotel Vegas , a venue with live music and DJs just about every day of the week, Skylark Lounge , home to the best blues and soul in Austin, and my personal as well as a local favourite, The White Horse , the best honky-tonk bar in Austin.

I got to know all these places and more on an Austin Live Music Crawl with Austin Detours . It’s the perfect way to get to know Austin’s live music scene if you are short on time. > Book your Austin Live Music Crawl here

Other things to do in Austin

1. Museum of the Weird: Living up to the slogan of ‘Keep Austin Weird’, this quirky museum has a bizarre but fascinating collection of exhibits. It’s a good contender for America’s strangest attraction.

2. Austin Walking Food Tour: Join a delicious food tour and explore the city’s central and historic area and sample numerous foods – from barbecue brisket to Austin-style breakfast tacos and even an Italian cannoli. BOOK IT HERE

Popular tours in Austin

Where to eat in austin, franklin barbecue.

Eating barbecue from Franklin’s is an unmissable stop in Austin. Founded in 2009 out of trailer, it was made famous by Anthony Bourdain, Barack Obama and many other celebrities. It’s one of the best places to try true Texan barbecue in Austin.

Arrive as early as possible. The line to get in will be long but it’s worth the wait, and you don’t want to risk getting to the front to find out that they’ve sold out, which they do every day.

Texas Hill Country road trip FAQs

The Texas Hill Country region is located in central Texas, covering the area between San Antonio and Austin and stretching west towards the Edwards Plateau. This region is characterised by its rolling hills, limestone outcrops, and spring-fed rivers, creating a distinctive and scenic landscape that defines the heart of central Texas.

The Texas Hill Country is famous for its picturesque landscapes, featuring rolling hills, vibrant wildflowers, and winding rivers, creating a natural retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.  It also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a notable German influence evident in its charming towns, festivals, and culinary scene. Additionally, the region is rapidly gaining recognition for its burgeoning wine industry, with numerous vineyards and wineries offering a taste of Texas terroir.

The Texas Hill Country is worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty, from the iconic bluebonnets in spring to the serene, crystal-clear waters of its rivers and lakes. It’s a haven for those seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a taste of Texas’ growing wine scene, all set against a backdrop of charming small towns with a rich history.

Do you have any questions about this Texas Hill Country Road Trip? Let me know in the comments!

Like this post? Pin and save for later

Disclosure: This post has been created as a partnership with Travel Texas. As always, all views are my own. 

Teresa is an award-winning travel blogger based in London. She’s on a mission to explore the world through responsible cultural and adventure travel , and through deeper, more meaningful local experiences. She’s a lover of adventure, the outdoors and everything food related, and she’s always looking for ways to make a positive impact through sustainable travel .

Epic Texas Hill Country Road Trip – A Complete Guide and Itinerary

Fancy a road trip? The Texas Hill Country has your answer. My Texas Hill Country road trip has a little something for everyone. Whether you want to jump into swimming holes, taste fine wines, craft beer, and spirits, or hike at beautiful State Parks – my guide has everything you need to know for an epic Texas Hill Country road trip.

The Texas Hill Country is vast. You can spend a full week in the region and only just scratch the surface. So, if you only have four days, use my guide at your leisure to find what works best for you. Choose from the many fun things to do in the Texas Hill Country and create your epic road trip.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Take a Texas Hill Country Road Trip

The best time to take a Texas Hill Country Rod Trip is during the spring and the fall because the weather is perfect! Moreover, springtime brings beautiful wildflowers and bluebonnets along the road for a scenic drive. Surprisingly, you can also find a little fall foliage in the Texas Hill Country.

During the summer, Texas is very hot! However, the summertime is also a great time for a Texas Hill Country road trip because you can cool off in one of many swimming holes.

Texas Hill Country Road Trip Itinerary

As a born and raised Texan, the Texas Hill Country is all about the smaller cities, State Parks, craft breweries, distilleries, wineries, and hidden gems that make this region special. This is why I will be focusing on all of the above in my Texas Hill Country road trip itinerary.

This 4-day Texas Hill Country road trip itinerary includes: chasing four waterfalls, hiking at three State Parks, exploring a cavern, swimming in natural pools, drinking wine, craft beer, and spirits, and more.

The most central location for this itinerary is Marble Falls. So I recommend finding a hotel in this city as your Texas Hill Country hub. Another fun option is to stay in an epic treehouse in the Texas Hill Country .

On the third day, I recommend checking out of your Marble Falls hotel and checking into a hotel in Fredericksburg. That way you can wake up and easily begin your day of wine-hopping in Fredericksburg!

Please remember to book and reserve your tickets for all of the parks and places below ahead of time.

Texas Hill Country Road Trip – Day 1

Colorado bend state park.

Colorado Bend State Park is well known for its beautiful 70-foot Gorman Falls – a true Texas hidden gem. People travel near and far just to hike to this waterfall.

Ideally, you want to save two hours to complete this hike and admire its rewarding scenery. The 3-mile hike to Gorman Falls is considered moderate because of the steep and slippery descent at the end of the trail. However, a majority of the hike is fairly easy because the trail is flat in a desert-esque setting.

Please note, due to the fragile ecosystem surrounding Gorman Falls, you will have to admire the waterfall from a distance. Nevertheless, it is an awe-aspiring waterfall that you would never imagine existed in the middle of the hill country.

I suggest taking your time in this majestic landscape with a small picnic lunch while admiring the landscape.

Longhorn Cavern State Park

After a long hike in the heat, cool off inside one of the most spectacular and cool (no pun intended) caves at Longhorn Cavern State Park. I have visited several caves in Texas and around the world – this cave is by far the BEST. No wonder why it is named the National Cave of Texas. Be prepared to be amazed and feel like you are on the set of an Indiana Jones movie.

Longhorn Cavern State Park has two different tours for guests to enjoy – a cavern walking tour and a wild cave tour. The cavern walking tour takes guests on an incredible 90-minute journey through several “rooms” of different geological features. Whereas, the wild cave tour takes guests on a 3-hour adventure deeper into the cavern by using special equipment to crawl through undeveloped areas.

Estimated driving time: Colorado Bend State Park → Longhorn Cavern State Park → Marble Falls = 1 hour and 36 minutes

If you have more time:  Inks Lake State Park is another wonderful Texas State Park just a few minutes from Longhorn Cavern State Park.

Texas Hill Country Road Trip – Day 2

Krause springs.

Start your day fresh by making a big splash at Krause Springs’ crisp natural pool. I mean this literally because there is an epic rope swing! Additionally, it’s also advised to arrive early because as the day progresses it gets very busy here.

Krause Springs is a wonderful natural wonderland for several reasons. There is a beautiful butterfly garden, at least 32 springs that feed into a manmade pool, and a natural pool with a waterfall. The manmade pool is best-suited for families with young children, whereas the natural pool is more for advanced swimmers.

As you can see, there are so many fun things to do at Krause Springs, and it’s the perfect destination for all ages.

Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery

Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery is one of the best distilleries in the Texas Hill Countrybecause it has several different types of crafted spirits. From vodka, gin, rum, bourbon, or whiskey – Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery has a drink for everyone.

Guests can enjoy a tasting tour which includes ALL of the spirits, order specialty made cocktails or both!

Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery is a great stop during a Texas Hill Country road trip because it’s family-friendly. As the name states, the property both a ranch AND a distillery. The ranch has a kid’s playground, Bocce ball, corn hole, washers, life-size “Bourbon Pong”, 9 hole PDGA disc golf course, fire pits, scenic hill country views, food trucks on-site, and a stage for live music.

So though you might visit for the crafted spirits, you will stay for the fun atmosphere.

Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is another great place to swim and hike in the Texas Hill Country. The Pedernales River runs throughout the park cascading over slabs of limestone creating several little waterfalls and wading pools.

Visitors can enjoy scenic hiking trails throughout the park, but the one you cannot miss is the Pedernales Falls Trail. This trail will take you to one of the most beautiful overlooks of the river. One glance and you will quickly know why this park is named Pedernales Falls State Park.

After you break a sweat from your hike, cool off by swimming, wading, or tubing in the river at designated areas within the park.

Estimated driving time: Marble Falls → Krause Springs → Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery → Pedernales State Park → Marble Falls = 1 hour and 48 minutes

Texas Hill Country Road Trip – Day 3

Hamilton pool preserve.

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a Texas oasis. It is one of the best things to do in Dripping Springs and a popular destination in the Texas Hill Country. Rightfully so, it is a true natural wonderland.

Your adventure at Hamilton Pool Preserve begins with a quarter-mile hike on a narrow trail before arriving at paradise. Then you will feast your eyes upon a beautiful 50-foot waterfall plunging into a natural pool surrounded by a box canyon.

After you soak in the majestic waterfall and scenic views, swim in the crisp pool or enjoy a picnic. Please note, swimming at the pool is not always guaranteed!

Reservations are required to visit Hamilton Pool Reserve and they fill up quickly. So I highly recommend booking your reservation at Hamilton Pool Preserve as soon as possible. There are two time slots available per day – morning (9:00 am – 12:30 pm) and afternoon (2:00 pm – 5:30 pm).

Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center

Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is a beautiful 76-acre preserve with both lush greenery and a savannah landscape. One step on this preserve and you will feel transported to another part of the world.

Guests can enjoy two different guided tours at Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center – the Uplands Trail or a Walk Through the Grotto. Both tours are wonderful and offer a unique experience.

The Uplands Trail is an opportunity to walk through a savannah landscape with wildlife sightings, bird watching, and expansive views of the Texas Hill Country. A Walk Through the Grotto is the most popular tour and provides guests with a breathtaking journey. A guide takes you through a  sheltered canyon to find a beautiful waterfall with a grotto pool below it. 

Jester King Brewery

Finish your day at one of the BEST breweries in Texas, Jester King Brewery. I recommend visiting Jester King Brewery before sunset, so you can enjoy a glass of beer with a delicious slice of pizza and gorgeous views.

Jester King Brewery sits on 165 acres of property, which includes craft beer production, nature trails, a farm, a restaurant, accommodations, an event hall, Texas Hill Country views, outdoor seating, and more. Needless to say, you might visit Jester King Brewery for the craft beer, but you will find yourself staying for much more.

So let’s talk beer. Jester King Brewery is by far one of the coolest craft breweries you will ever visit. They produce several different types of beer – culture IPAs, lagers, stouts, and spon. The beers are fermented in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels and are all mixed with a culture of native yeast and bacteria. Moreover, the spon beers are inspired by Belgian lambic beers and are 100% spontaneously fermented.

Every beer produced at Jester King Brewery is unique. In fact, they have some of the craziest flavor combinations you could ever imagine, but they all work beautifully! Moreover, the master brewers are always working on something new. So the beer menu is always changing. What you find one weekend may not be there the next weekend.

Jester King Brewery is also one of the best kid-friendly breweries in Dripping Springs . Kids can explore the cool wooden fort, play in the open-fields, and hang out with the farm goats.

Estimated driving time: Marble Falls → Hamilton Pool Preserve → Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center → Jester King Brewery → Fredericksburg = 2 hours and 14 minutes

Texas Hill Country Road Trip – Day 4

Wine hopping in fredericksburg.

On the last day, it is time to “wine” down by visiting some of the best wineries in Fredericksburg . Fredericksburg, Texas is the epicenter of the Texas Wine Country and the second-largest wine region in the nation! As one of the fastest wine regions in the nation, it is certainly a destination you cannot miss during your Texas Hill Country road trip.

When you wine-hop in Fredericksburg, you can do a self-guided tour by driving yourself or book a wine shuttle . A self-guided experience will allow you to pick and choose wineries you want to visit, whereas a wine shuttle has a route with specific winery stops.

With over 50 wineries in Fredericksburg, it is hard to choose a handful to visit for one day. So I will share my favorite wineries and offer a variety of options for every palate.

Fiesta Winery

Fiesta Winery is one of my all-time favorite wineries in Fredericksburg. This fun winery has a lively atmosphere with live music and plenty of shaded outdoor seating. It is the perfect place to casually enjoy a full bottle of wine with family and friends.

Fiesta Winery is known for its sweet red and white wines, but also produce fantastic dry reds and whites, rose, sparkling, and dessert wines. 

My Favorite Wines:  Skinny Dippin (absolute favorite!), Back Porch Sittin’, and Savannah Rose.

Grape Creek Winery

Grape Creek Winery is the first winery in Fredericksburg, Texas. It is also one of the largest with over 100 acres of land. Guests can enjoy a grand tour of the winery on the tram which also includes a wine tasting.

Moreover, Grape Creek Winery is one of the most beautiful wineries in Texas. When you enter the estate, you will immediately feel like you have left the Texas Hill Country and escaped to Tuscany, Italy.

My Favorite Wines:  Cuvee Blanc, Rose of Malbec, Cabernet Blanc, and Grand Rouge.

The Wine Garage

If you love cars or have a man on this Texas Hill Country road trip, then this winery might be perfect. The Wine Garage is Texas’ best-kept secret because it is not only a winery but a classic car collection too.

So instead of sipping wine with outdoor views, you can sip wine next to a blue 1955 Ford Thunderbird or a yellow 1972 Volkswagon Van. Moreover, you can enjoy a guided tour inside the classic car collection with a progressive wine tasting. Throughout the tour, a guide will pair a glass of wine with a specific car, while also providing its history and significance. How cool is that?!?

My Favorite Wines:  Rat Rod Rust Bucket Red, Apache Pick up Orange Mimosa, and Orange Muscat.

Estimated driving time: depends on how many wineries you visit!

If you have more time:  enjoy a lovely hike or go stargazing at Enchanted State Park.

I hope you have enjoyed my guide on an epic Texas Hill Country road trip. Drive safe, and enjoy!

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• © Roadtrippers
• © Mapbox
• © OpenStreetMap
• Improve this map

The Definitive Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Large towns, small towns and loads of natural wonders!

• Featured Trip Guides
• Scenic Drives

Created by Roadtrippers - March 19th 2016

I t doesn't get much better than a road trip through Texas's Hill Country. It has just about everything you'd want: Beautiful countryside, friendly locals, hidden swimming holes, rolling hills and small towns that are just bursting with charm. "Bucolic" doesn't even begin to describe Hill Country. One need only stumble upon the tiny hamlet of Luckenbach, outside Fredericksburg, where live music plays in an outdoor, make-shift theater pretty much 24/7. Here, you'll find old-timers, young folks, moms with kids dancing around, bikers hanging in the shack that's actually a bar, and a guy in the back that lets you take pictures on his massive ox. Driving around Hill Country really is like being in another world. Time moves slower here, the people speak their own language, and life is just a bit sweeter when you're exploring spring-fed rivers, rambling through wooded canyons, and driving past fields of bluebonnets. The Hill Country sunrises and sunsets alone will make you believe in magic.

Austin, TX, US

Start off in Austin, TX where there's loads to see (and tons of delicious places to eat.) Grab a donut and some coffee at Gourdough's - Big. Fat. Donuts for breakfast, and head to local favorites like Top Notch Hamburgers or Franklin's Barbecue​ for lunch. Then head down to Ginny's Little Longhorn Saloon if you need to wash it all down with a cold beer. A few other notable joints in town include Spider House and the Hula Hut, when you're looking for a place with a li'l extra kitsch.

Magnolia Cafe South

An amazing place for breakfast in Austin is the Magnolia Cafe. Open 24/7 and serving up diner fare that's a little more refined than you might expect, it's been a staple in Austin for ages. Pro tip: the French toast is to die for.

Barton Springs Pool

Austin is also home to a few refreshing swimming spots, like the Deep Eddy Pool (and there's also a Deep Eddy Cabaret if you're looking for some evening entertainment). A couple miles away from Deep Eddy Pool is another swimming hole: Barton Springs Pool. It's a massive spring-fed pool where the water is always a refreshing 68 degrees, making it a great place to spend a hot afternoon.

Jacob's Well Natural Area

Wimberley, TX

Once you leave Austin, you'll head about 12 miles to Driftwood. Driftwood was first settled in the mid-1800s and still retains that Old West feel. In fact, the town has been almost a ghost town since the 1970s, but its still got some pretty important places to visit, like the world-famous Salt Lick BBQ and Driftwood Estate Winery. Both are must-stops along your way to Jacob's Well Natural Area, which is about 8 miles from Driftwood. Jacob's Well is a hidden gem in every sense of the word. It's actually a spring-fed swimming hole with a system of caves running underneath it. The hike to Jacob's Well is a bit strenuous, and there are cliffs you have to circumnavigate in order to make your way down to the hole itself. But, it really is a gorgeous spring and one of Hill Country's best kept secrets.

Devil's Backbone Tavern

Fischer, TX

Hop in the car and enjoy a scenic drive to Devil's Backbone Tavern in Canyon Lake. This tavern is considered a local Texas legend that comes complete with plenty of ghost stories. No spoilers, though! You'll have to buy a drink here and have one of the locals tell them to you.

The Crystal River Inn

San Marcos, TX

Click to discover a great deal!

Then head to San Marcos, which is a pretty sizable town with loads of amazing places to eat and drink and one of the best bed and breakfasts in the Lone Star State: The Crystal River Inn, located in a grand Victorian mansion. Be prepared though... San Marcos can be pretty busy during the school year, because it's actually a bustling college town. This settlement has earned loads of national attention as one of America's "best small towns to raise kids," and one of "the most exciting small towns in the country".

Gruene Hall

New Braunfels, TX

When you're hungry, a couple miles down the road is Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar. Then walk over and dance the night away at Gruene Hall (one of the longest continuously running dance halls in America.) While you're there, you can check out the Gruene Historic District.

Schlitterbahn New Braunfels

New Braunfels is also home to the world-famous Schlitterbahn Waterpark, which has a resort attached as well (The Resort at Schlitterbahn.) If you want to shell out some extra cash, you could even spend the night in one of the Treehaus luxury suites!

El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel

San Antonio, TX

Once you get to San Antonio, definitely hit up the San Antonio Zoo & Aquarium and Six Flags Fiesta Texas if you're traveling with kids. A few other can't miss attractions in San Antonio are the Tower of the Americas, Mission San Juan Capistrano, La Villita Historic Arts Village and of course, The Alamo. El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel is a stylish, yet very affordable hotel that's just a few minutes' walk from the Riverwalk and the Alamo, and pretty much everything else in downtown.

Luckenbach Texas

Fredericksburg, TX

Just thirteen miles south of Fredericksburg is Luckenbach Texas, a very, very special place. This hill country hamlet is an iconic country music venue that looks like a working Old West town. There's a blacksmith shop, post office, on-site bar shack, dance hall and cotton gin. During summer, this place gets busy; I mean packed, with thousands of people. In fact, during music festival season, you'll need to get tickets well in advance if you hope to visit. But, during the off-season, fall and winter, it's a great place to pop down to during a weekend or weekday, grab a beer and listen to whoever's on the stage.

National Museum of The Pacific War

Next up is Fredericksburg, TX, which has an incredibly vibrant downtown with loads of shopping and plenty of places to eat. If you're in the mood for a wine tasting, there's the Fredericksburg Winery, or the Fredericksburg Brewing Company if you're more of a beer-drinker. Hondo's on Main is an eatery that's a local favorite, thanks to its tasty burgers and BBQ and charming vibes. For history buffs, Fredericksburg is the childhood hometown of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz who commanded the Pacific Fleet to victory in World War II. Visit the National Museum of The Pacific War right in the middle of downtown; it's a phenomenal history museum and there's a fantastic on-site gift shop.

Enchanted Rock State Park

Willow City, TX

Just 20 miles down the road from downtown Fredericksburg is Enchanted Rock State Park. If you're up for a bit of hiking, this state park is perfect. It would be difficult managing this hike with a baby or toddler because it involves a lot of walking and there's really not much shade, so a summer or early fall hike would be considerably hot. Bring plenty of water though, and even if you just picnic at the park, it's absolutely worth the detour.

Texas Chainsaw Massacre House

Kingsland, TX

Next, drive to the "Texas Chainsaw Massacre House" (from the movie) in Kingsland. The iconic horror home was actually dismantled after filming and relocated to Kingsland, where it's currently operating as a delicious restaurant called the Grand Central Cafe. It's actually pretty surreal. Not only did the filmmakers use the house for exteriors, but it was used for interior shots as well. Order the "Leatherface Lemonade"... it's a killer cocktail.

Longhorn Cavern State Park

Longhorn Cavern State Park in Marble Falls is a fantastic place to work off your lunch. Once a month, they offer paranormal cave tours during "the witching hours." The cavern is a limestone cave that was made by an old underground river. Over the years it's been used by Native Americans, Confederate soldiers, and outlaws like Sam Bass. The cave was also used as a dance hall and speakeasy during Prohibition.

Krause Springs

Spicewood, TX

Founded in 1955, the 115-acre Krause Springs in Spicewood, Texas (about 30 minutes outside of Austin) has become a classic stop for roadtrippers traveling around Hill Country. It offers camping and swimming at their historic natural springs. It's open year-round, but be aware that pets are not allowed, and there's no lifeguard on duty. Also, it's cash only so come prepared for the $7 adult admission fee (the price is $5 for kids 4-11), and if you wanna camp it's $14 per adult, $6 per kid, and $14 for an RV spot.

Hamilton Pool

Dripping Springs, TX

Next, head to Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs; remember to check beforehand to make sure it's open. You might even be able to make a reservation in advance, because this collapsed grotto-turned-swimming hole has become pretty popular. It's not hard to see why, though: imagine cooling off in the pool underneath that waterfall!

Lakeway Resort and Spa

Lakeway, TX

When you're ready to rest your weary head, check into Lakeway Resort and Spa, and be prepared to get pampered. It's pretty much the perfect ending to your Texas Hill Country road trip.

Best time to visit Texas Hill Country: The climate in Texas Hill Country is rather hot and humid in the summer, and is pretty much perfect in the fall. Winters can bring chilly temperatures in the evening, but for the most part, the climate of much of Hill Country is classified as a humid subtropical zone, so expect mild to hot temperatures.

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers helps you find the most epic destinations and detours—from roadside attractions to natural wonders and beyond.

Explore More Trip Guides

The loneliest road: a road trip along nevada's highway 50, get your kicks on illinois's route 66, weekend scenic drive along highway 23, aka the pig trail, california sr25: the airline highway, keep exploring with the roadtrippers mobile apps..

Anything you plan or save automagically syncs with the apps, ready for you to hit the road!

Connect with us and hit up #roadtrippers

Tall tales, trip guides, & the world's weird & wonderful.

• Roadpass Digital
• Mobile Apps

Business Tools

• Partnerships

Get Inspired

• Road trip ideas by state
• National parks
• Famous routes
• Voices from the Road

Fresh Guides

• The ultimate guide to Mammoth Cave National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Badlands National Park
• Route 66 Leg 2: St. Louis to Tulsa
• Route 66 Leg 1: Chicago to St. Louis
• Route 66 Leg 3: Tulsa to Amarillo
• Top 10 things to do in Ohio
• Offbeat Road Trip Guides
• Road Trip USA
• Scenic Routes America
• National Park Road Trips
• Terms and Conditions

Travelspirations

The Ultimate Guide to the Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Reading time:

You won’t find invasive popups or giant ads on Travelspirations.com – we’re not fans either. To support our site, we use affiliate links. If you click one and make a purchase, we might earn a small commission. It won’t cost you extra.

Last updated 5 months ago

Ah, the Texas Hill Country. An expanse of rolling hills, sparkling rivers, and historic towns that truly captures the essence of the Lone Star State.

If you’ve never been, you might be wondering what the fuss is all about. Allow me to enlighten you.

So, you’re thinking of getting behind the wheel and embarking on a Texas Hill Country road trip? Well, buckle up, my friend, because you’re in for a treat!

Table of Contents

Why the Texas Hill Country is a Must-Visit

Natural beauty everywhere you look, rich cultural heritage, a haven for food and wine lovers, endless outdoor activities, preparing for your journey, best times to visit, setting up your itinerary, must-visit spots in the texas hill country, nature retreats and parks, historic towns and villages, keeping safe on the road, wrapping up your adventure.

I’ve ventured through these roads myself, and let me tell you, the experience is nothing short of breathtaking.

Imagine driving through vast landscapes, where every turn introduces you to a new picturesque view. One moment you’re admiring the sprawling vineyards, and the next, you’re coasting alongside serene bodies of water reflecting the Texas sun.

And just when you think it can’t get any better, you stumble upon a charming town with friendly folks ready to share their stories and traditions.

Now, I’m not one to oversell, but the Texas Hill Country is truly a patchwork of nature’s beauty and rich history. So, if you’ve been seeking an adventure, a journey through its roads is bound to offer an experience you’ll cherish. From the moment you set out to the last mile, every moment in the Hill Country is a discovery.

And with this guide by your side, you’re well on your way to creating unforgettable memories. So, let’s dive right in!

When most people think of Texas, their minds often conjure images of cowboy hats, vast ranches, and the occasional honky-tonk bar playing country tunes.

While all that’s part of the Texas charm, there’s so much more to the state. Especially when we talk about the Texas Hill Country.

Now, you know, Texas isn’t just about cowboys and rodeos. The Hill Country, in particular, stands out with its unique charm that beckons travelers from near and far. If you’ve ever met someone who’s been there, you’ve probably heard them gush about it.

And there’s a good reason for that enthusiasm. Let’s explore why this region is truly a must-visit for every road trip enthusiast.

The scenery here is unlike any other. From the majestic Enchanted Rock to the tranquil waters of the Guadalupe River, every twist and turn brings forth a fresh, picturesque vista.

Wildflowers carpet the landscape, especially during the spring, turning the countryside into a riot of colors.

Stepping into the Texas Hill Country is like taking a trip back in time. The region is home to a multitude of historic sites, from German-inspired towns like Fredericksburg to Spanish missions.

These places offer a window into the diverse cultures that have shaped Texas.

Oh, and did I mention the food and wine? Texas may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of vineyards, but the Hill Country is making waves in the wine industry.

There are numerous wineries dotted around, offering delightful tastings. Pair that with some authentic Texas BBQ, and you’re in for a culinary experience to remember.

For those who love to stay active, there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether it’s hiking, cycling, or kayaking, the Hill Country offers a diverse range of outdoor adventures.

You can explore caverns, go tubing down a river, or simply take a leisurely walk amidst nature.

In conclusion, while Texas as a whole has much to offer, the Hill Country stands out as a gem in its crown. It’s a blend of natural wonders, history, and culture that promises an enriching experience. And if you’re anything like me, once you visit, you’ll find yourself longing to return.

So, gear up and set your sights on this mesmerizing region. The Texas Hill Country awaits!

Embarking on a road trip through the Texas Hill Country isn’t just about hopping in a car and driving. As much as we love a good spontaneous adventure, there’s something to be said about being well-prepared.

Trust me, a bit of planning goes a long way in making your trip enjoyable and hassle-free. From choosing the right vehicle to ensuring you’ve packed just right, let’s go through a quick checklist to set you on the right path.

Ah, the age-old question of timing.

When it comes to the Texas Hill Country, timing isn’t just about the calendar but also about capturing the essence of the region.

• Spring (March to May) : This is perhaps the most popular time, and for a good reason. The wildflowers, especially the iconic Texas bluebonnets, are in full bloom, blanketing the landscape in vibrant colors.
• Fall (September to November) : As temperatures mellow down, the foliage puts on a colorful show. It’s a less crowded time, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
• Summer (June to August) : While the temperatures can soar, this is a great time for water-based activities. Think tubing down the rivers or visiting the many natural swimming holes.
• Winter (December to February) : A quieter season, but the cooler weather is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking. Plus, you get to experience the festive charm of Hill Country towns.

Choose a time that aligns with what you want to experience.

Want to see the wildflowers? Spring’s your season. Love wine? Fall brings many wine festivals.

The Texas Hill Country is vast, and while wandering without a set plan has its charm, having a rough itinerary can help you maximize your experience.

• Start with the Big Names : Places like Fredericksburg, Luckenbach, and the Natural Bridge Caverns are popular for a reason. Mark them on your map.
• Seek Out Hidden Gems : Ask locals, do some online sleuthing, or even follow intriguing road signs. You might discover places like the lesser-known swimming holes or a charming family-owned winery.
• Stay Flexible : Sometimes, the best adventures are the unplanned ones. If you hear of a local event or spot an interesting trail, don’t be afraid to deviate from your itinerary.

Remember, the journey is as important as the destination. While the Texas Hill Country has a plethora of attractions, taking the time to savor each moment, each view, and each interaction is what will make your trip truly memorable. Safe travels!

The Texas Hill Country isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. As you traverse its vast expanses, you’ll find that every mile, every turn, brings something new to the table.

The challenge isn’t finding places to visit; it’s choosing which ones to prioritize! So, without further ado, let’s delve into some spots that are bound to make your trip unforgettable.

The Texas Hill Country is a canvas painted by Mother Nature herself. With each brushstroke, she’s crafted landscapes that’ll leave you awe-inspired.

For those who find solace amidst the wonders of the natural world, these retreats and parks are a dream come true.

• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area : This massive pink granite dome offers a challenging hike but rewards you with panoramic views of the Hill Country.
• Hamilton Pool Preserve : A breathtaking natural pool created thousands of years ago, complete with a 50-foot waterfall. Remember to reserve in advance; it’s quite the popular spot!
• Lost Maples State Natural Area : Especially captivating in the fall, this park offers vibrant foliage, steep canyon walls, and the serene Sabinal River.

Don’t forget your hiking boots, your camera, and a sense of wonder when you visit these gems!

While nature is a big draw, the heart and soul of the Texas Hill Country lie in its historic towns and villages.

Each one tells tales of times gone by, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich tapestry of cultures and traditions.

• Fredericksburg : With its German heritage, this town is known for its historic buildings, unique boutiques, and a vibrant food and wine scene. Don’t miss out on the National Museum of the Pacific War located here.
• Luckenbach : It might be tiny, but it’s mighty in charm! This hamlet offers a laid-back vibe, historic dance halls, and some unforgettable live country music sessions.
• Gruene (pronounced ‘Green’) : Home to Texas’ oldest dance hall, this town along the Guadalupe River is a perfect blend of history, music, and shopping.
• Boerne : A treasure trove of history, Boerne boasts beautifully preserved buildings, lovely walking trails, and the captivating Cave Without a Name.

As you meander through these towns, take a moment to chat with the locals.

Their stories, tips, and warmth will only add to your Hill Country experience. Safe travels, and may each stop on your journey be as enchanting as the last!

Ah, the allure of the open road — the sense of freedom, the ever-changing sceneries, the spontaneous detours. Road trips are truly one of life’s greatest pleasures. But as with any adventure, they come with their share of risks.

As someone who’s been on many a journey, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of staying safe. After all, it’s the smooth rides, the little hiccups, and the safe returns that make a trip memorable. So, here are some pointers to ensure you have not just a fun, but also a safe road trip through the Texas Hill Country (or anywhere else for that matter!).

• Vehicle Check-Up : Before you set out, give your car a thorough once-over. Check the brakes, tires (including the spare!), lights, and fluid levels. If it’s been a while since your last service, consider getting one.
• Stay Updated on Weather : The Texas Hill Country can have varied weather conditions. Keeping an eye on forecasts will help you prepare for sudden rainstorms or temperature drops.
• Avoid Driving at Night : While the allure of a moonlit drive can be tempting, unfamiliar terrains, wildlife, and reduced visibility make nighttime driving riskier.
• Stay Hydrated and Rested : Texas heat can be draining. Carry plenty of water and take regular breaks. If you’re feeling fatigued, it’s okay to pull over and rest or even take a short nap.
• Watch Out for Wildlife : Especially during dawn and dusk, animals might wander onto roads. Always be vigilant, and if you spot an animal, slow down and give it space.
• Stay Informed About Local Condition s: Especially in rural areas, road conditions can change, or certain routes might be closed. Local radio stations or community boards can offer valuable real-time information.
• Respect Speed Limits : They’re there for a reason. Adhering to them not only ensures your safety but also allows you to truly soak in the beauty of the landscape.
• Avoid Distractions : We all love a good car karaoke session or an engrossing podcast, but never let them divert your attention from the road. And remember, texting and driving is a definite no-no!
• Travel With a Buddy : If possible, travel with a companion. They can help with navigation, share the driving load, and it’s always nice to have someone to share the journey’s memories with.

At the end of the day, a safe journey is a fulfilling one. Taking a few precautions can make all the difference between a trip you’d rather forget and one that you’ll cherish for years to come. Here’s to safe travels and unforgettable adventures!

The Texas Hill Country has a magical way of leaving its mark on travelers. The sprawling landscapes, the historic towns, the unique encounters — each forms a patchwork of memories that will stay with you long after the journey ends. But as the sun sets on your adventure, it’s essential to conclude on a high note.

After all, the last chapter is often what stays etched in our memories. Here are some suggestions to ensure your road trip concludes as spectacularly as it began:

• Revisit a Favorite Spot : Did a particular place tug at your heartstrings? Head back! Spend a few more hours soaking up its ambiance. This second visit can often bring out nuances you might’ve missed the first time.
• Document Your Journey : Set aside some time to journal your experiences, feelings, and encounters. Not only does it serve as a personal memento, but it also allows you to reflect on your adventure.
• Local Souvenirs : Pick up a souvenir from a local store. It could be a handmade craft, a regional delicacy, or even a postcard. It’s a small reminder of the vast, beautiful expanse you traversed.
• Plan Your Next Adventure : As one journey ends, another beckons. Maybe there’s a spot you missed or a festival you’d like to attend. Start sketching out plans for your next Hill Country adventure!
• Leave No Trace : Ensure that you leave each place as pristine as you found it. Dispose of any trash, and be mindful of your impact on the environment.
• Share Your Experience : Once you’re back, share your journey online. Write a blog post, leave reviews, or simply post photos. Your insights could guide future travelers.

Remember, the end of a journey is just the beginning of reliving it through stories, photos, and memories. Cherish each moment, embrace the nostalgia, and look forward to many more adventures ahead.

Help us improve your experience

We strive for accuracy and reliability in our travel articles. If you have noticed any inaccuracies, outdated information, or errors in this article, please help us improve by reporting it. Your feedback is valuable and will contribute to providing the most up-to-date and reliable travel information to our readers. Kindly specify the section and details of the mistake you found, and we will promptly review and rectify it. Thank you for your assistance in making our travel content better!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Join the Travelspiration Club. Never miss a story!

Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

This five-day excursion starts and ends in san antonio and zigzags through uvalde and bandera, two lesser-explored counties in texas’s bucolic hill country..

• Copy Link copied

The Hotel Emma is one of San Antonio’s most chic locales.

Photo by Nicole Franzen

In the loosest geographic terms, the Hill Country is where South Texas, Central Texas, and West Texas meet. It’s where enormous live oaks and Ashe junipers flirt with dusty scrubland, where granite karsts rise like hunchbacks from the plains, where bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush festoon the landscape in a watercolorist’s daydream. Bound in by the Balcones Escarpment, the southeastern edge of the Hill Country starts just above San Antonio. After spending a day exploring Texas’s second most populous city, cut northwest toward Bandera and Uvalde counties, where you can sleep in a TV-famous tree house, explore the unspoilt Sabinal and Frio rivers by inner tube, and stuff yourself silly on tacos and country-fried steak.

Suggested itinerary

This five-day excursion begins in San Antonio, home to the efficiently run San Antonio International Airport . The first night is spent in the city; the next three in the countryside. Can you hear the cicadas yet?

Day one: Shopping and taquerias

Grab a rental car and get thee to Carnitas Lonja . Chef-owner Alex Paredes’s southside taqueria always sells out of its crispy-delicious pork, sometimes as early as 1:30 p.m. For two diners, order a pound of meat with six homemade corn tortillas and beans on the side. If you’re there on a weekend, try a seafood tostada and Clamato-spiked beer from Fish Lonja, Paredes’s brand-new sister kitchen, run out of Carnitas Lonja’s backyard.

Take refuge from the Texas heat in a cute, air-conditioned boutique like Nativa.

Courtesy of Nativa

In the hottest part of the afternoon, make like a Texan and seek out shops with air-conditioning. Fiesta On Main sells a broad array of colorful San Pablito and Otomo quilts, painted tin signs, and Día de los Muertos figurines. Fair-trade Mexican boutique Nativa has some of the city’s cutest clothing and home goods, including palm earrings, carved gourd bowls, and flowing caftans. Cheever Books is loaded with rare first editions and autographed tomes, heavy on the Texana. In tony Alamo Heights, sloan/hall is good for Turkish floor pillows and couture dresses, while Temple of Offering caters to an earthier, neo–New Age crowd with its Ojai-esque ceramics and smudge sticks.

Making the museum rounds is another smart way to avoid the blistering heat: The San Antonio Museum of Art has a remarkable collection of ancient Greek, Roman, Etruscan, and Egyptian sculptures, plus creative traveling shows. The Briscoe Western Art Museum , meanwhile, covers five centuries of the American West, from the Spanish conquistadors to present day. Look for Apache-woven baskets, bronze sculptures by John Coleman, and a full-size replica of a Wells Fargo & Co. stagecoach.

After 3 p.m., drop your bags at the 146-room Hotel Emma , located in the heart of San Antonio’s revitalized Pearl District . The Roman and Williams– designed inn was named after Emma Koehler, the CEO who ran the former brewery during Prohibition. Boutique touches include luxurious Frette linens, lavender bath salts from Los Poblanos, supple leather sofas contrasted with vintage kilim rugs, and mini-larders stocked with Topo Chico and Mexican Cokes. Head down to the hotel library to indulge in a free welcome cocktail and canapés or go for a stroll along the Pearl’s handsomely manicured section of the ever-expanding River Walk .

The Japanese Tea Garden is a bucolic place for a stroll.

Photo by Rose West/Shutterstock

As the sun starts to set, drive over to the Japanese Tea Garden , a rock quarry turned green space with stone arch bridges, a lily pond, and a 60-foot-tall cascading waterfall. You’ll see turtles, ducks, koi, and wedding parties snapping photos.

Dinner has got to be at Ray’s Drive Inn , originator of the puffy taco. The beef or carne guisada , enveloped in a fresh-from-the-fryer crackly taco shell, is the way to go. For dessert, loop north to El Paraiso , San Antonio’s first paletería . José Flores’ real-fruit pops take their inspiration from his Mexican home state of Zacatecas, as well as Guadalajara and Aguascalientes. The neon green pickle pop is sour and tangy, with bits of pickle skin floating in its frozen orbit. Sweeter teeth might prefer horchata, coconut, or pineapple.

Day two: More Mexican bites and a Treehouse Utopia

After checking out of Hotel Emma, kick things off with a leisurely meal at Cascabel Mexican Patio . The daily brunch service starts with a complimentary bowl of fideo : thin noodles submerged in a restorative chicken broth. The machacado is a Nuevo León dish made with dried beef, diced jalapeños, onions, and tomatoes, served in warm tortillas. The enmoladas , or chicken enchiladas in mole poblano, are equally tempting. If you’re anxious to hit the road faster, swing by the downtown location of La Panadería , an upscale Mexican bakery where the decadent tequila almond croissant deserves write-in nominations on election ballots and the vanilla conchas are so light and airy, you’d think they were filled with helium.

The tres leches croissant at La Panadería is something to write home about.

Courtesy of La Panadería

From here, you’re heading to Utopia (population: 227) via a scenic two-hour route through Bandera. There are two reasons for this. One, to meet Billy Howard, owner of Flashback Funtiques in Boerne. Howard started collecting gumball machines at age 11 and now sells beautifully refurbished soda dispensers from the 1950s, mint-con Mobil gas signs, and larger-than-life Big Boy statues. Two, to hang out with Kymberli Word, one of the hilarious, down-to-earth owners of Hill Country Cellars Winery in Bandera. She and her husband, Rhett, set up this tasting room three years ago but have been making wine—two whites (chardonnay and symphony), three reds (cabernet sauvignon, malbec, and lenoir), a rosé, and a dessert wine—for almost a decade. Word doesn’t take kindly to snobs from California telling her Texans don’t know how to make wine, and she’s determined to prove it—one mind-changing flight at a time.

Treehouse Utopia overlooks the lazy Sabinal River.

Courtesy of Treehouse Utopia

From Bandera, it’s another 40 minutes to Utopia, where you’ll be checking into your home base for the next three nights: Treehouse Utopia . The extraordinary property, which overlooks the lazy Sabinal River, turned a year old in June. Texas-born chef and entrepreneur Laurel Waters teamed up with “tree whisperer” Pete Nelson of Treehouse Masters , a popular TV show about arboreal living that ran on Animal Planet from 2013 to 2018, to construct this quartet of luxury tree houses. Inspired by Waters’s love of antiquing and her extensive travels throughout France, the Chapelle has a 25-foot steeple, stained glass, and a decor rife with French ecclesiastical artifacts. The two-story Chateau has an expansive deck, fairy tale–like spiral staircase, and a grand clawfoot bathtub. The Carousel features a hidden porch and a vintage merry-go-round horse as its centerpiece. And the Biblioteque is jammed wall-to-wall with books, plus two cozy leather armchairs that invite guests to linger.

The grounds are blessedly remote (even Google Maps doesn’t have the address, which is how Waters likes it), yet centrally located to everything you’ll want to see and do in Uvalde and Bandera counties in the coming days, starting with a no-fuss dinner at Neals Dining Room in Concan. The family-owned café has been serving up country-fried steak, lima beans, buttered rolls, and yes-ma’am/no-ma’am hospitality since 1929.

Day three: A cowboy storyteller, trail riding, and a Twisted Sister

Start with breakfast at Lost Maples Cafe in Utopia, where the Redden family makes buttermilk pancakes the size of hubcaps and the building is notable, too: Dating to 1904, it has served as a Masonic lodge, a drugstore, a classroom, and a doctor’s office.

Next, join “cowboy storyteller” Lee Haile for a guided nature tour to some of the Hill Country’s mightiest trees, including a 96-foot-tall, 438-inch-round Bald Cypress next to Buffalo Creek. The trees are located on private land, so you need permission to access them. Besides, Haile is good company—entertaining his troops with campfire songs and an impressive knowledge of the local ecology.

After bidding Haile adieu, drive to Elm Creek Stables in Concan, a quarter mile north of Garner State Park, to go trail riding. Beverly and George Streib have run the Frio Canyon Horse Refuge for nearly a quarter of a century. Of the 30+ horses in their stable, only a dozen or so people-loving equines lead tours; the rest of the seniors are free to simply enjoy their retirement. The horses are gentle and the terrain is easy to navigate, dotted with dainty wildflowers and strapping oaks. The low trails are particularly novice-friendly; experienced riders may request a steeper amble along higher paths.

Ten minutes north of Elm Creek, turn right onto Ranch Road 337. This is one of the Twisted Sisters, three routes widely considered the best motorcycle drives in the Hill Country. But even in a car, it’s a blast of a roller-coaster ride, winding past shallow creeks and under towering limestone bluffs.

Thirsty yet? Cool off under a shade tree, sipping chilled Polvadeau Vin Symphonique. Order a glass of this smooth white wine at Lost Maples Winery and Polvadeau Vineyards in Vanderpool, or request a flight with 10 generous pours. (The winery’s best seller, Polvadeau Vin Elegante, is a velvety Hill Country cab with hints of plum and currant.)

You’ll have to plan well in advance to nab a seat at The Laurel Tree, which is open just one day a week.

Courtesy of Laurel Waters/The Laurel Tree Restaurant

Dinner tonight is at The Laurel Tree , back in Utopia, the restaurant where Treehouse Utopia co-owner Laurel Waters really shows off her Le Cordon Bleu training. The antiques-stuffed hideaway is open just one day a week, on Saturdays, and reservations are essential. Waters grows many of her own vegetables and herbs, and her five-course menu is seasonally inspired. (Count your blessings if she’s making her tangy lemon-artichoke soup or signature brisket Wellington.)

In the backyard, you’ll notice yet another stunning tree house: this one perched in a 450-year-old live oak. This tree house was Waters’s first collaboration with Nelson , before they cofounded Treehouse Utopia. The tiny lofted abode seats two to six people and may be reserved for private dinners. Alas, nabbing a reservation in the tree house dining room requires considerable planning because seatings book out six months in advance.

Day four: Floating on the rio

Rise and shine and put on your finest swimming costume: Today you’re floating the Rio Frio, a spring-fed river that winds conveniently through Leakey and Concan. Many locals bring their own floats, but you can rent yours from Andy’s on the River , a Concan-based outfitter that provides shuttles to pick-up and drop-off points.

Tubing is like one big river party. Coolers with built-in radios blast country and western and reggaeton songs. Folks are drinking and singing and flipping out of their floats for maximum Instagram laughs. You’ll bump tubes with strangers at least half a dozen times in the slower patches and that’s OK: Everyone is out here to have a good time.

The length of the trip depends on the water levels, but bank on three to six hours. For food, you can gulp down a Texas-sized cinnamon bun from Bonnie’s Bakery at Crider’s on the Frio in Concan before hitting the water; pack a picnic lunch with provisions from Concan General Store , stopping to eat it on a deep rock ledge about halfway down the river; or save your appetite for a late lunch at Bear’s Den in Leakey. Tucked behind Bear’s Market & Specialty Meats , the warehouse-like space with comfy couches and stadium TVs welcomes folks in all their messy post-float glory. Order a basket of brisket quesadillas and fried green beans with jalapeno-ranch dressing and life is good.

Back on the road, heading south toward Concan, look for the rainbow-striped bus parked in front of The Inn Between , a clutch of rental cottages just off Highway 83. Married co-owners Jake and Leah Guerrero make a mean mangonada inside the cheerfully painted bus. The icy Mexican fruit treat tastes great in the wicked Texas heat. Stick with the classic combo (chamoy, mango, lime juice, and chili powder) or go wild with pickle sauce, gummy worms, an ice pop, a Tootsie Pop, and a chewy tamarind-coated straw.

Around 7:30 p.m., meet at the first gate south of the Frio River in Concan, about a third of a mile down FM 2690. This is where you and probably two dozen other folks will find a real-life batman. Bain Walker has been leading the Frio Bat Flight tours for 20 years and knows everything there is to know about bats, guano, and the poor souls whose job it is to collect bat guano for our fertilizers and toothpaste. After paying for your tour (advance reservations recommended) and trailing Walker down a dusty gravel road through a 10,000-acre private ranch, you’ll schlep up a small hill, listen to his spiel about bats, and then wait. And wait. And wait. Finally, after the sun sinks over the distant hills, they’ll appear—10 to 12 million of them, mostly ladies—racing like madness out of the cave and turning the pink sky above into a ribbon of black. After the Bracken Cave Preserve in Comal County, this is the second largest colony of Mexican free-tailed bats in the world. Their en masse flight is spectacular to witness.

Garner State Park is the place to go for day hikes and summer evening dances.

Photo by Richard A McMillin/Shutterstock

The night is still young though, so jump back in the car and drive 20 minutes north to Garner State Park . This 1,774-acre green space is great for day hikes (Old Baldy is a popular summit), but it gets extra busy after dark thanks to its family-friendly jukebox dances . Folks of all ages have been gathering at this open-air pavilion on summer nights since the 1940s, with country and western shindigs held nightly (8 to 11 p.m.) until August 17. After Labor Day, check the calendar for special events.

Day five: More tacos and back to San Antone

Bid adieu to the tree house of your dreams and hop onto scenic Ranch Road 187 toward Sabinal. Your final breakfast in Hill Country will no doubt be your best: Nora’s Tacos . The unimpeachable egg, potato, bacon, and cheese combo is the top choice if you’re craving a classic breakfast taco, although owner Nora Gomez has a huge blackboard menu of other options— queso flamenco, machacado , nopalitos —all of them absurdly tasty.

Mission San Jose is one of the stops in San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

Photo by Paul Brady/Shutterstock

From Sabinal, pick up U.S. 90 East back to San Antonio. This leg takes about an hour without traffic, leaving you enough time to pack in more sightseeing. Visit San Antonio Missions National Historical Park , which encompasses four historic missions spaced about 2.5 miles apart. There are 10 miles of pedestrian-only trails connecting the missions, should you feel a burning desire to walk or rent a bike, or you can park for free.

And don’t you dare board your plane home without sampling San Antonio’s absolute best barbecue: 2M Smokehouse . A pro order goes something like this: half a pound of brisket (“moist”), a quarter pound of juicy pulled pork, two big honkin’ pork ribs, a sausage spiked with Oaxaca cheese and Serrano chilies, and sides of soupy borracho beans, chicharrón -topped macaroni and cheese, and pickled nopales. Arrive by 11:30 a.m. to avoid a crazy line and the crushing disappointment of seeing the words Sold Out .

What to bring

Summers in Texas are no joke. Pack light, breathable clothing, sunblock, bug spray, a good hat, sweat rags, and a reusable water bottle . If you plan to float the Frio, bring a swimsuit, rashguard or coverup, water shoes, waterproof camera casing, and a good length of rope. That last one is so you can tether your inner tube to your fellow travelers’ tubes—or your floating beer cooler (no judgment). Should you forget any of these items, Frio’s Dry Fifty in Concan sells all this and more.

Additional tips

• Besides the Alamo, the Pearl District is one of the greatest tourist draws in San Antonio. If you’re struggling to find parking, check the multilevel Ace parking garage at Isleta Street and Emma Koehler. It’s free and almost always available.
• One can only eat so much jerky on a road trip. Stop by the Pearl Farmers’ Market to pick up fresh fruits and veggies for your drive. It’s Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Treehouse Utopia is blissfully out of range for anyone who doesn’t have cell service with AT&T. Though the Wi-Fi is fast, why not log off and read a book? The Gates of the Alamo , by Stephen Harrigan, is considered one of the best novels ever written about this neck of the world.

>>Next: The Scenic Route: A Guide to the World’s Best Road Trips

• Arts, History & Culture
• Attractions & Family Fun
• Texas Beaches
• Food & Drink
• Music & Film
• Outdoor Adventure
• Texas Road Trips
• The Western Experience
• Texas Cities
• Big Bend Country
• Hill Country
• Panhandle Plains
• Piney Woods
• Prairies & Lakes
• South Texas Plains
• Texas Travel Guide
• Hotels, Resorts and B&Bs
• Campgrounds
• Guest Ranches
• The Great Texas Eclipse
• Where to Stay in the Prairies & Lakes
• Getting Outdoors in the Prairies & Lakes
• Online Travel Guide

Driving the Hill Country

About 5,000 varieties of wildflowers transform a car window’s view of the Texas Hill Country into a live-action Van Gogh. Taking routes on ranch roads and well-trodden highways, we zigzagged the map, in no rush at all.

Our love affair with the road reaches new levels in the Hill Country , where highways crisscross a landscape blanketed by blooming flowers. Awed at every turn, we glided down tried-and-true routes and hidden backroads, blissfully aware that in the Texas countryside, the ride is the destination.

A Scenic Odyssey

The Hill Country’s topography resembles a piece of paper that has been crumpled up and straightened out again. Inconstant, rolling, packed with surprising creases and shifts, it provides the perfect, uneven canvas for nature’s paintbrush.

And oh, is it painted! Especially in spring, the green hills are ablaze with wildflowers in every hue. Bluebonnets, with their vertical shafts bedecked in deep blue blossoms, dominate the view from mid-March to the end of April, when they begin to fade.

They’re rivaled in vibrancy and number only by the Texas paintbrush, an annual that owes its red-orange brilliance to its bracts, or leaves, not its petals. Paintbrushes are hemiparasitic, meaning their roots siphon off nutrients from surrounding plants. Growing side by side in fiery patches among the cool-colored bluebonnets, they wage a silent battle for territory, and our eyes reap the benefits.

The countryside boasts an estimated 5,000 varieties of wildflowers, including violet winecups, yellow square-bud primroses, and pink Indian blankets. Drivers who happen to pass through become de facto gallery visitors, a wall of art on each side of the road.

We decided to take a long tour: a 250-mile-plus route that begins in New Braunfels, just 30 miles north of San Antonio, and loops clockwise to end in Austin. Including pit stops and our leisurely driving speed, it took us about four hours overall.

The westward leg of the trip featured a series of turns on several Texas highways and farm roads, passing through lush greenery and small ranching towns. We traveled west on Texas Highway 46, past the town of Boerne, then made a right on Texas Highway 16 to Bandera, known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.”

From there, we turned left on Ranch Road 470, down a meandering path through an undulating landscape filled with junipers and oaks. From there we boomeranged northward and eastward on a route that included several ranch and farm roads and U.S. 83; the roadside brush was ensconcing.

Heading east to Vanderpool, we navigated several twists that offered panoramas of the Frio and Sabinal River gorges. And the eastward drive on Texas Highway 39 to Kerrville totally blew us away, with a tree-lined stretch of road that made us feel as if we were navigating a lush, natural maze.

Once in Kerrville, we were in a part of the countryside where wildflowers rule. The very familiar drive from that point—northwest on Texas Highway 16 to Fredericksburg, then west on U.S. 290 to Austin—is well worth the hype. The indigo glow of bluebonnet patches soothed our eyes, Texas paintbrushes speckled the roadside thrush, and the quaintness of the towns invited us to stop and stretch our legs.

Who were we to say no?

A Brief Jaunt

For a shorter trek—the round trip took us about an hour and a half—we tried the Willow City Loop.

We headed north from Fredericksburg on Texas Highway 16, passed the Farm Road 1323 junction that leads to Willow City, and kept going on Texas 16. Hitting Ranch Road 965, we turned left and traveled west. Our destination? Enchanted Rock, a giant pink landform that has inspired Native American myth and tourist fascination due to some very odd behavior: it emits flashes of light and noises because of the granite’s expansion and contraction.

The scenery to and fro? Astounding. Cliffs and valleys of boulder and brush, bluebonnets and paintbrushes in their eternal struggle, and meadows strewn with bright pink phlox.

FUN FACT Former first lady Lady Bird Johnson is partly responsible for the thriving of the state’s wildflowers. She established an initiative to conserve natural landscapes and had many road medians seeded with flowers. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin is open to visitors seven days a week.

More Texas Inspiration

Find Natural Beauty in the Hill Country

Zip Line Through Texas

Family Fun in the Hill Country

Ryan b. martinez.

Ryan B. Martinez is a freelance writer and editor based in Austin. He loves and has written about popular music, comic books, issues pertaining to the LGBTQ community and his hometown of El Paso.

Published By: Texas Monthly  Texas Monthly is an authority on the Texas scene, covering music, the arts, travel, restaurants, museums, and cultural events since 1973.

We use cookies to improve your experience and to analyze the use of our website. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy .

• Travel & Meeting Pros
• Accessibility
• Privacy Policy & Terms Of Use

All Material © 2024 Office of the Governor, Economic Development and Tourism. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Office of the Governor, Economic Development & Tourism 1100 San Jacinto, Austin, Texas 78701, (512) 463-2000

Texas Travel Talk

Let's Talk Texas Travel!

Adventure & travel are all about forging ahead, trying something new. Let’s Texas!

Texas Hill Country Texas Road Trip

Texas Hill Country Scenic Drives

The Texas Hill Country scenic drives are worth the road trip!

Small towns in the picturesque countryside of the Hill Country offer rich cultural and natural attractions–an ideal lifestyle many seek. Never mind that it might take an hour to drive to the nearest movie theater or the mall, but getting there will ensure that the Texas Hill Country scenic drives will be in your path.

Texas Trivia:

What is the most scenic road in Texas?

Slacker of 106.1 Kiss FM (iHeart Radio) states that the most scenic road in Texas is the Lonesome Highway . Why? Because drivers are more likely to encounter a tumbleweed than another vehicle on this highway. Spanning roughly 50 miles from Carlsbad, New Mexico, to Pine Springs, Texas, the Lonesome Highway is a straight and lonely shot into the Guadalupe Mountains.

The Hill Country has some extraordinary Texas Highways. Creeks, rivers, rolling hills, small mountains, wildflowers, green valleys, windy roads, deer, and other wildlife are just some of the scenic views to experience on these scenic drives. Are you ready to take a Texas Hill Country road trip? Pack a lunch and look for picnic areas along the way.

But first, for the ones who don’t know what the abbreviations stand for (I didn’t know all), here they are:

SH – State Highway RM – Ranch to Market Road CR – County Road US – United States Route or US Highway FM – Farm to Market Road

Bandera Scenic Drives

Bandera is the Cowboy Capital of the World and a popular destination for guest and dude ranches.

• SH 173 North winds through Camp Verde and Kerrville. SH 173 South rolls through the hill country in the South Texas Plains.
• Explore this scenic route on SH 46 East from Pipe Creek to Boerne.
• Look for the ripples in creeks as you travel the rolling hills on SH 16 and FM 470 West.

Blanco State Park

Blanco Scenic Drive

Two miles south of Blanco on RM 32 from US 281, offer scenic views of the Hill Country. And if you veer towards San Marcos, you’ll see Devil’s Backbone. While you’re in the area, stop at Devil’s Backbone Tavern for a few spirits (for real), and maybe you’ll see a ghost! Add a trip to Blanco State Park for a bonus!

If you’re going to Blanco from the San Antonio area, you may want to turn right on Hwy 290 and scout out the unique town of Dripping Springs (one of my favorite THC areas). There are many attractions, including Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve, Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center (hike down to a grotto), and all the unique waterfalls in this area !

Also, north of Blanco is the small town of Johnson City and the Pedernales Falls State Park. Take a few days to enjoy the scenic views in both. You will not regret it.

Bracketville Scenic Drives

Going north on RM 674 and RM 334 will lead into a scenic landscape of the West Nueces River winding among steep cliffs and hills.

Torr Na Lochs Winery outside of Burnet

Burnet – Texas Hill Country Scenic Drives

• SH 29 West – a scenic drive to Spider Mountain
• RM 2341 Northwest – a scenic drive to Spider Mountain
• RM 2342 offers fabulous landscapes, especially at the turnout near the merging of the Llano and Colorado rivers.

Speaking of scenic views – Torr Na Lochs Winery just outside Burnet has the most beautiful view a winery could ever have – it’s my favorite. It’s a great place for wine tasting and lunch outside, overlooking the Buchannan Dam and Inks Lake.

If any time is left during your visit to Burnet, check out the Longhorn Cavern State Park. Aside from crouching like a duck, this cave is one of my favorite guided cave tours I’ve been on so far. Yes, so be aware there is a section in the cave that you’ll have to duck down to get through. It’s not good if you have back problems.

Concan Scenic Drives

Along US 83, FM 1050, and SH 127, enjoy exceptional views of the Frio River.

And a jump or swim in the Frio will be a good one! Check out our visit to the Frio River .

Photo Credit: Chastity V.

Fredericksburg

If you’re road-tripping to Enchanted Rock, you may want to travel on SH 16 to Willow City Loop.

The iconic Texas Hill Country scenic drive is on Willow City Loop (off 16) – a paved ranch road that winds for 13 miles through the rugged scenery of the country. Though the land around it is private, anyone can drive the ranch road. Obviously, the best time of year would be spring when the Texas bluebonnets and other wildflowers are blooming and in the fall to see fall foliage. Motorcyclists love this road – so be sure to share it nicely and always look for them.

May through October. is a great time to visit Old Tunnel State Park on Old San Antonio Road to see 3 million Mexican free-tailed bats and 3,000 cave myotis bats. The state park is open in the evening just for this. But of course, you probably must like bats!

Junction Scenic Drive

Follow the South Llano River on US 377 southwest. Look for the overlook about 22 miles south at a highway rest stop.

Kerrville Scenic Drives

These scenic roads are a motorcyclist haven for scenic views and the land’s natural beauty.

• SH 16 to Medina
• FM 337 to Vanderpool, Leaky, and Camp Wood
• FM 335 through Barksdale
• Follow SH 41 to Mountain Home, then SH 27 through Ingram

There is also a road trip motorcyclist love called Good Ol’ Texas Hills Loop . It’s a 150-mile ride that provides a beautiful drive for Hill Country scenery, cafes, and points of interest.

For a beautiful spring road trip, travel 1431 to see the Texas Bluebonnets and other beautiful wildflowers.

• FM 337 offers great views.
• Head north on FM 187 to the Lost Maples State Natural Area.
• Going US 83 north, you’ll see bits of the Frio River, and about 12 miles north is a roadside park with picnic tables and spectacular views.
• SH 39 East is another beautiful route to take.

Lake Marble Falls

Marble Falls Scenic Drives

• FM 1431 offers breathtaking views of rolling hills and windy roads (go west on FM 1431 from Hwy 281 in Marble Falls. I’ve driven it several times in the last two years. Not to mention, the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is on this route. It’s free to enter the hiking trails.
• RM 2147 will take you to the western shore of Lake Marble Falls.
• SH 71 is another road with memorable drives.

Guadalupe River in Gruene

New Braunfels

RM 32, Devil’s Backbone, River Road from New Braunfels to Sattler along the Guadalupe River. More on visiting New Braunfels with the family .

Rocksprings

Rugged scenic routes on RM 674 South and US 377.

On your way to the San Marcos River, follow FM 12 northwest to RM 32 (Devil’s Backbone) to witness exceptional views of the Hill Country and the wildflowers during spring.

Uvalde Scenic Drives

• Go north on US 83 through Concan (pass Garner State Park) to Leaky, then west on RM 337 and south on SH 55.
• From Leaky, drive east on RM 337 to Vanderpool (Lost Maples Natural Area).
• From Leaky, go south on RM 187 to Sabinal.
• FM 337 in the exceptional scenic drive.
• Climb the surface of the Edwards Plateau (2300 ft) on RM 187 to SH 39.

Get to Devil’s Backbone (RM 32) for a winding, razor-backed ridge overlooking Hill Country vistas.

There you have it – top scenic views in the Texas Hill Country. I’m sure there are some hidden gems out there, too! My motto is “Always take the back roads.”

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.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More From Our Authors

Girl’s Getaway In Marble Falls

Plan your girl's getaway in Marble Falls! The Texas Hill Country is an excellent

Best Of South Padre Island: Eat, Sleep, Play

Where to Eat, Stay, & Play: The Best of South Padre Island. Texas's tropical

New Braunfels For Families

Find all the fun in New Braunfels for families right here! New Braunfels, TX, is

Places To Visit Near Austin

Take a peek at these fabulous places near Austin for a day trip. Places to visit

Restaurants On Main Street In Grapevine, TX

Here are excellent restaurants on Historic Main Street In Grapevine, TX. (plus where

Weekend Getaway To Abilene, TX

Family Fall Camping Checklist & Camping Tips

Top Things To Do In Port Aransas

Tiny Cabin Rentals In Texas

• Terms & Conditions

Kim Croisant, Owner, DFW, TX. Contact me at [email protected] .

· © COPYRIGHT 2022-CURRENT Texas Travel Talk  · ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Fantastic Stops On A Texas Hill Country Road Trip

• Destinations
• Road Trips In The U.S.
• Texas Hill Country
• Types of Travel
• United States

Draw a circle in the center of Texas, and you’ve practically defined the Texas Hill Country, an area of rugged hills comprised of limestone and granite west of Austin and San Antonio reaching southwest, almost to the Mexico border. Take this drive in the spring to see the bluebonnets and wildflowers, or in the fall to see the changing colors. You’ll find cool oases in spite of the Texas heat.

For a real taste of Texas, begin your Texas Hill Country road trip at one of San Antonio’s most luxurious locales, the Hotel Emma, then move on to Uvalde, and picturesque Leakey, the Swiss Alps of Texas. Stay at a dude ranch in Bandera, the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” We’ll explore the scenic route to Kerrville, the wineries and tasting rooms on Main Street in Fredericksburg, and Johnson City, LBJ’s home. Plus, I’ve added my favorite eateries along the way. 

1. San Antonio

The 22-acre Pearl mixed-use development was formerly a brewery, and Hotel Emma was the main brewhouse that was transformed into a top 146 room luxury hotel that keeps winning awards. Make reservations through the concierge for Hiatus Spa & Retreat , just steps across Brewer’s Alley in the Cellars Residences building.

Dine at the newly opened French Brasserie Mon Chou Chou , featuring quintessential French comfort food and named after an affectionate French nickname. Indulge in the likes of lobster Benedict for brunch, escargots in garlic butter as an appetizer, and a lemon tart for dessert.

The Asian-American concept evident in Best Quality Daughter offers a collection of comfort food from Chef Jennifer Dobbertin’s youthful approach teaming with Quealy Watson for a warm, gorgeous atmosphere. Small plates feature Impossible Potstickers and Crab Boudin Egg Rolls. Savor family-style dishes like salt-n-pepper shrimp or Thai pork-fried rice.

Hopscotch is an interactive art gallery in downtown San Antonio that brings together artists in collaborative environments co-founded by Nicole Jensen and Hunter Inman. Hopscotch creates platforms for local, national, and international artists to experiment with a broad spectrum of mediums and techniques.

Don’t miss the sophisticated cocktails that pay homage to the tiki atmosphere at Hugman’s Oasis by restaurateur Chris Hill along the River Walk. The bar menu follows an Izakaya tavern concept: small dishes for snacking so you can linger with good drinks, good food, and good friends.

Located halfway between San Antonio and the Mexican border at Del Rio, Uvalde has some unique sites along our driving tour.

The first floor of the Briscoe-Garner Museum documents the life of Uvalde’s “Cactus Jack” Garner, vice president of the United States during President Roosevelt’s first two terms. The second floor honors Dolph Briscoe, who served two terms as Texas governor and led a distinguished career in public service, business, and ranching.

Briscoe Art & Antique Collection represents former Governor Dolph Briscoe and his wife Janey’s extensive art collection, including western oils, bronzes, and works by Rembrandt, Remington, and other artists.

Constructed in 1881, the Benson Guest House , located in the heart of Uvalde, is filled with historic touches, mid-century modern décor, with a historical marker honoring the Benson family.

Ox Ranch offers a personal guide to help you and your grandkids hand-feed the giraffes, pet the rhinos, and view dozens of wild exotic animals on a photo safari. You can explore caves, hunt for arrowheads, visit fossilized dinosaur tracks, kayak, paddleboard, and swim. Stay in comfortable cabins and eat delicious meals, including the best cookies and bear claws ever.  Dad and the boys can drive and shoot fiery 76mm Sherman WWII tanks at the facility. You don’t have to come for the exotic hunting that is also available.

Pro Tip: Fly and land or drive to Hangar 6 Air Café , at Garner Field, formerly one of 65 Texas Airfields training WWII Army Air Force pilots. Enjoy hot plates, chef-inspired entrees including ribeye steak, sandwiches, salads, appetizers, and desserts like a classic coke or root beer float. A rare special on this menu: The $100 Hamburger. Buy $100 of AvGas or Jet-A fuel from Uvalde Flight Center and get any of the Hangar burger meals FREE. Take your pick from six hangar burgers like the P-51 Mustang or The Spitfire.

Known as the Swiss Alps of Texas and one of the most picturesque areas of the rugged Hill Country, Leakey (LAY-key) is 35 miles north of Uvalde.

Known for scenic drives in the area, F. M. 337 east and west traverse wooded inclines, secluded valleys, and river camps on the picturesque Nueces River . A turn north on F. M. 187 leads to Lost Maples State Natural Area . U.S. 83 North, skirting the East Frio River , leads 12 miles north to a roadside park that offers spectacular views of the Texas Hill Country and relaxing picnic areas. Texas 39 East, paralleling the Guadalupe River , takes you along gently winding roads, runaway creeks, and breathtaking sunset views to Ingram and Hunt .

Real County Historical Museum preserves pioneer living with a log-cabin parlor, bedroom, and kitchen with locally donated pieces. See the extensive collection of arrowheads, an 1880s horse-drawn hearse, blacksmith shop, ranch relics, and farm implements.

Rio Frio Landmark Oak is the third-largest live oak tree in the state, with a historical marker posted. The tree is on private property on the east side of the Rio Frio on Farm Road 1120.

Pro Tip: Lost Maples Café on Main Street in nearby Utopia is famous for homemade pies like coconut, lemon, chocolate meringue, fudge pecan, buttermilk, apple, and cherry.

Bandera , known as the Cowboy Capital of the World, is situated on the banks of the Medina River, in the Texas Hill Country, an hour’s drive northwest of San Antonio. At least eight Texas Dude Ranches surround Bandera. Among the most familiar are Dixie Dude Ranch , Mayan Dude Ranch , The Flying L Ranch , and Twin Elm Guest Ranch , to name a few. Attend Friday Night Rodeos all summer long.

Pro Tip: OST Restaurant , a family Old Spanish Trail restaurant since 1921, boasts saddle bar stools, a John Wayne Room, plus family-style meals like chicken fried steak, fried catfish, and fried chicken.

Arkey Blue’s Silver Dollar Saloon in Bandera is one of the oldest continuously operating honky-tonks in Texas, featuring country music stars like Ernest Tubb, Willie Nelson, and Arkey Blue himself.

5. Kerrville

Take the scenic drive from Bandera to Kerrville along Highway 16, left on 470 to Vanderpool, right on 337 to Medina, and north on Hwy 16 to Kerrville.

Museum of Western Art represents the most distinguished living artists who follow Russell and Remington, documenting memories of the Old West. See the rotating collection of art, the western art library, and teaching facilities.

In the heart of downtown Kerrville, Schreiner Mansion Historic Site & Event Center appears on the National Register of Historic Places. The mansion courtyard, overlooking the expansive plaza, is available for special events. Don’t miss the guided mansion tour on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

YO Ranch Headquarters, Mountain Home has recently come under new ownership, with extensive renovations, including new roads, unique lodging, and more land expansion. Cabin or room rates include three meals at the Chuckwagon, an open bar in the lodge, and plenty of water and sodas for the kids. Enjoy the pool, exotic game photo safaris, wildlife tours, the traditional Y. O. social hunting club, or even a wedding venue.

Pro Tip: Savor lunch or dinner at Rails, A Café at the Depot , offering steaks, beef tenderloin, or shrimp Alfredo. Save room for the crème Brulee of the day or brownie turtle torte.

The Sleepy Side of Rails , a Guest House located in the historic train depot, is a charming one-bedroom apartment next door to the bakery, candy store, and Rails restaurant.  

Basement Brewers of Texas , the best craft brewery in Kerrville, has the largest selection in the Texas Hill Country. Kids, dogs, and outside food are welcome.

6. Fredericksburg

Enjoy over a dozen wineries and tasting rooms on Main Street in Fredericksburg, stay safe, and keep the business in town. Here are a few to visit: Grape Creek On Main Tasting Room , serving vineyard-designated collections from the owner’s estates in Fredericksburg and Paso Robles, California. Fat Ass Ranch & Winery , which has a catchy phrase (check it out), and Pontotoc Vineyard Weingarten which makes award-winning vintage wines from Texas Hill Country grapes.

Fiesta Winery Fredericksburg offers wine from four locations or shipped to your door. Narrow Path Main Street Tasting Room has offered Narrow Path wines from the Turbeville family since the early 2000s.

Japanese Garden Of Peace was installed at the National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg , dedicated, and opened on May 8, 1976, celebrating the 130 th anniversary of the founding of Fredericksburg, then renovated in 2015 to restore the original design.

The Vaudeville Supper Club is designed for epicureans searching for culinary adventures, with seven-course menus featuring rich cultural flavors and paired with exquisite wines by chef Jordan Muraglia.

The Blacksmith Quarters On Barons Creek offers the main house and cottages with private hot tubs, gardens, and more for groups or single rentals, located one block off Main Street.

7. Johnson City

Lyndon B Johnson National Historical Park , in Johnson City, and the LBJ Ranch District, protect the birthplace, the grandfather’s Johnson Settlement, visitor center, the ranch known as the Texas Whitehouse, the home, the Jet-Star , LBJ’s plane, the family cemetery, and final resting place of our 36th President, Lyndon B. Johnson and his wife, Lady Bird.

The Crossroads Inn , located in Johnson City, has more than 50 wineries within 30 miles of the Inn. It’s situated on six acres with herb gardens and perennial flowers leading to private porch swings and benches among 100-year-old shady oak trees surrounding the Inn. Enjoy art galleries, gift shops, antique shops, clothing boutiques, wine cafes, and restaurants within walking distance.

In conclusion, Texan Matthew McConaughey recently reflected: “In Texas, there is a certain honor of being a Texan that is doing something the best that you can.”

Road trips have gained popularity in the last few years, and there are many scenic drives to choose from:

• 49 Best Stops Along Iowa’s Beautiful Loess Hills Scenic Byway
• The 8 Most Scenic Drives In Colorado
• The 14 Most Scenic Drives In The U.S.

Janie H. Pace is a travel writer and photographer based in Fort Worth, Texas. Her culinary, wine, and travel photography adventures have led her across Peru from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu; up the Canadian Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Banff and Jasper, indulging in Fairmont luxury hotels; and to the four largest islands of Hawaii. Her latest adventure was a Viking Cruise to the Norwegian Homelands. After a career in advertising and sales, Janie knows what makes compelling, substantial content. Whether she's participating in a wine tasting, restaurant review, or local craft beer or distillery tour, Janie posts her adventures at Journey Mapped .

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

Road Trip: Hill Country, Texas

Head down south for a visit to Texas's famed hill country, quirky cowboy towns and all.

Texas's famed hill country is a bucolic, rumpled terrain marked by wooded canyons cut by spring-fed rivers. It's also laced with endless miles of appealing two-lane blacktop—and, best of all, it's quirky. One minute you'll see a vista of bluebonnets and the next a sign advertising "Emu Oil, Next Exit" or "Cowboys for Christ Silent Auction."

The Hill Country begins just north of Austin, continues south to San Antonio, and sweeps west some 200 miles (322 kilometers) before the land begins to flatten out. Follow a route linking state and U.S. secondary highways, which lead to a series of colorful towns fit for dawdling.

Start in San Antonio

These attractions form a loop starting in San Antonio and taking in Bandera, Kerrville, Fredericksburg, Enchanted Rock, Johnson City, and New Braunfels, before returning to San Antonio.

From San Antonio, follow Highway 16 northwest to Bandera, which considers itself the hell-raising "Cowboy Capital of the World." Here you can order a chicken-fried steak bigger than your "haid" and dance to live country music. But nowadays you're apt to see travelers' SUVs parked in front of Arkey Blue's Silver Dollar saloon alongside the usual beat-up pickup trucks. The Frontier Times Museum in Bandera (510 13th St.; tel. 1 830 796 3864; www.frontiermuseum.org ) has a bewildering collection of prehistoric arrowheads, mounted animals, bells, and a shrunken human head no bigger than an orange. Duck into the gift shop, which stocks those must-have rubber tomahawks. Also in Bandera is the Old Spanish Trail Restaurant (305 Main St.; tel. 1 830 796 3836), famous for its home-cooked pot roast, catfish platter, and chicken-fried steak.

Next stop is Kerrville, which you can reach by looping around on Highway 16 or cutting straight to it on 173. Stop for a meal at Billy Gene's Restaurant (1489 Junction Hwy.; tel. 1 830 895 7377; www.billygenesrestaurant ), known for its chicken-fried steak and its views of the Guadalupe River. Then check in at the Inn of the Hills (1001 Junction Hwy.; tel. 1 830 895 5000; www.innofthehills.com ), with such amenities as live country music and an Olympic-size pool. Next door is a family sports center with a 16-lane bowling alley, so pack your finest bowling shirts.

Fredericksburg

Among the first non-natives to settle the area were German immigrants who'd purchased millions of acres sight unseen. Old-timers still refer to the "German Hill Country," where the mother tongue was commonly spoken until the 1970s. One town that clings to its German heritage is Fredericksburg. Besides its more than 300 B & Bs, it has a Main Street lined with galleries, boutiques, bistros, and specialty shops with names like Der Küchen Laden.

Follow the oompah music to the Ausländer Biergarten (323 E. Main St.; tel. 1 830 997 7714) featuring German cuisine and an astounding selection of beers. Order a frosty mug of Paulaner Salvator and feast on kasseler rippchen —smoked pork chops—with hot German potato salad, sauerkraut, and a slice of Black Forest chocolate cake for dessert.

Fredericksburg native son Chester Nimitz served as commander in chief of the Pacific Fleet during World War II. Honoring his memory are the Admiral Nimitz Museum and the National Museum of the Pacific War (340 E. Main St.; tel. 1 830 997 4379; www.nimitz-museum.org ), displaying over a thousand artifacts, including a Japanese midget submarine captured during the Pearl Harbor attack.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Detour 18 miles (29 kilometers) north of Fredericksburg to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, whose centerpiece is a 425-foot (130-meter)-tall dome-shaped mountain of pink granite about a billion years old. Hike to the top, then overnight in pleasant campgrounds at the base (tel. 1 830 685 3636; www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/enchanted_rock ).

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park Visitor Center

A few miles away in Johnson City, the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park Visitor Center (Ave. G and Ladybird Ln.; 1 830 868 7128; www.nps.gov/lyjo ) offers a self-paced stroll past video monitors with footage of the War on Poverty, Vietnam, and other events of Johnson's life. Most surprising is a retirement photo of him with long hair, looking a little like Timothy Leary without the beads.

New Braunfels and Gruene

• Nat Geo Expeditions

In New Braunfels, the 65-acre (26-hectare) Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort (305 W. Austin St.; tel. 1 830 625 2351; www.schlitterbahn.com/nb ) has more than enough waterslides, tube chutes, and high-speed thrills to put dear old dad in traction for months. Not far away is a must-see, Gruene (pronounced "green"), the historic district of New Braunfels, which, according to the town motto, has been "gently resisting change since 1872." It's home to Gruene Hall (1281 Gruene Rd.; tel. 1 830 606 1281; www.gruenehall.com ), a landmark on the country music scene. Opened in 1878 and touted as the oldest continuously operated dance hall in Texas, Gruene Hall features a huge, scuffed-up dance floor with a big stage at one end and an even bigger bar at the other. The dance hall seems out of place among the boutiques and restaurants that sprouted around it, but it's still genuine, complete with spartan restrooms and old boys sitting at the bar, yukking it up in German.

A block away is the New Braunfels Museum of Art & Music (1259 Gruene Rd.; tel. 1 830 625 5636), affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution and celebrating Texas artists. Afterward, stop in for the best tasting tea this side of Istanbul at the River House Tea Room (1617 New Braunfels St.; tel. 1 830 608 0690). It serves legendary salads, homemade soups, and marble-bread sandwiches. A premier B & B experience awaits you at the Gruene Mansion Inn (1275 Gruene Rd.; tel. 1 830 629 2641; www.gruenemansioninn.com ), an 1872 Victorian-style time warp overlooking the Guadalupe River.

Comal and Guadalupe Rivers

Cap off your drive with an inner tube trip down the Comal or Guadalupe Rivers, both of which run through New Braunfels, making it a haven for paddlers and floaters. On either stream, the warm sunshine filtering through the oaks and cypresses overhead creates a soothing strobe effect as you glide downstream. Just kick back, shift your mind into neutral, and go with the flow. That's the best way to see the Texas Hill Country.

To find out more, contact Texas Tourism (tel. 800 888 8839; www.traveltex.com ). Check out B & Bs in Fredericksburg at www.fredericksburglodging.com , and for the New Braunfels region, www.texasbedandbreakfast.com . Also see www.hat.org , the website for the Texas Bed & Breakfast Association.

—Text by Patrick J. Kelly, adapted from National Geographic Traveler

Related Topics

You may also like.

How to plan the ultimate road trip adventure in Canada

Route 66: America's most celebrated road trip is going electric

Free bonus issue.

Lobster, lighthouses and sea breezes on a road trip in nautical Nova Scotia

See monarch butterflies in all their glory on this California road trip

Is this the ideal Swiss road trip?

An epic rainforest road trip along North Queensland's Cassowary Coast

How to take the ultimate Florida road trip

• Environment
• Paid Content

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• History Magazine
• Gory Details
• 2023 in Review
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

TWO WORLDS TREASURES

Explore Texas & beyond from Dallas/Ft. Worth

Best Road Trips in Texas Hill Country Itinerary

After making countless trips to the Texas Hill Country, I will share the best itineraries for road trips in the Texas Hill Country region with you. 

Disclaimer: Two Worlds Treasures contains affiliate links and is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my Privacy Policy for more information.

Our family made these road trips in the Texas Hill Country in four different seasons several times.

One time, we spent the whole Spring Break in the Texas Hill Country , and a couple of times, we went during Thanksgiving Break.

In the summer we jumped into the swimming holes and went peach picking .

Christmas in Fredericksburg was one of my favorite times in the region.

We did road-tripping to the Texas Hill Country for the weekend and stayed for longer days, too.

On one occasion, we even did a day trip to the Texas Hill Country.

We went on trips with our relatives and with a group of friends.

These road trips to the Texas Hill Country, the epicenter of Texas Wine Country, were started from where we live south of Fort Worth. But you can adjust these Texas Hill Country road trip itineraries from the different starting points in Texas. It’s either from Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, or Houston.

Where is the Texas Hill Country?

After searching and comparing findings, it’s safe to say that the Texas Hill Country location is in Southwestern Central Texas, west of Austin and north of San Antonio.

Check out this map of Texas Hill Country from the Texas Heritage Trail Program. If you see the blue line, that is the Texas Hill Country Travel Trail. We like to plan our Texas Hill Country route around this travel trail. 

When we visited Boerne in May 2019, we found the Texas Hill Country Trail passport in the Visitor Center. It highlighted thirty-four historic sites, attractions, or destinations within the 19 counties in the Texas Hill Country. You can also find the map of the region in the passport. 

This passport is a keeper even after the program is over.

Road Trips in Texas Hill Country Itinerary

As I mentioned above, our road trips to the Texas Hill Country always started from south of Fort Worth. We prefer the back road rather than the highway. Firstly, it’s less traffic. Secondly, it’s more beautiful, and there are so many things to do between Fort Worth and Fredericksburg .

We pitched a tent, set up our travel trailer in RV Campground, or stayed in a hotel. Fredericksburg has hotels that suit your style and family; travel as a couple, with friends, or with your dog. Check out what accommodation you can find in the city here .

Bear in mind there are so many places in the Hill Country that we have yet to visit. You will need frequent visits to see all the places in this region.

So, check out these best road trips in the Texas Hill Country itinerary for your next vacation or weekend getaway.

1-3 Days Road Trips in Texas Hill Country

A day trip to burnet.

Cities visited: Burnet and Lampasas.

Longhorn Cavern is one of the most beautiful cave systems in Texas. It’s not big, but you will be amazed by the beauty of this underworld in Burnet.

It is a flow cave where water ran and penetrated the limestone bedrock for many years. As a result, it made the cave look more sculpted and has a very long, nearly level.

From Fort Worth to Longhorn Cavern State Park in Burnet, it takes about a 3-hour drive (180 miles.) From US-67 S, continue to US-281 S to Park Rd 4 S in Burnet.

Book your ticket for the tour, and adjust your starting point based on the tour time. You can visit the rest of the park before or after the cave tour.

On the way home, we stopped in Lampasas and visited the Hanna Springs Sculpture Garden .

Christmas Break in Fredericksburg – 2 Days

When my sister and mother made a short visit from Indonesia, we took them to Fredericksburg for two days.

We left the day after Christmas through Hico, Hamilton, Goldthwaite, San Saba, and Llano. It was cold and wet, and fortunately, the rain stopped when we arrived in Fredericksburg.

After checking in at the hotel we went to Main Street for lunch and window shopping. My mother was in a wheelchair, so we couldn’t move fast. But we managed to stop at the Markplatz to see the Pyramid and Christmas Tree. Then we continued to Das Peach Haus. One of our favorite stores in Fredericksburg.

From Das Peachhaus, we went to wineries. As most of you know, the Texas Hill Country is home to over 100 wineries and vineyards. With more than 50 wineries in Fredericksburg, it is the epicenter of Texas Wine Country.

You will find wine tour operators and shuttle services that will take you to wineries from town. So, you don’t need to find a designated driver when you go wineries hopping.

Some of the wineries are pet-friendly and kid-friendly. A few of them serve food as well. Find all the information you need about wineries and vineyards in Fredericksburg here.

After supper, we went back to town to see the Christmas Lights. 

The next day, we left through Lampasas. We stopped at Momma Jean’s BBQ for lunch. It was delicious, but too bad a few months later, the owner/chef got a heart attack. He couldn’t work anymore and couldn’t find people to continue the place. Eventually, he had to close the restaurant.

Chasing Fall Foliage to Pedernales Falls State Park in Johnson City – 3 Days

Cities visited: Fredericksburg, Johnson City, Comfort, and Marble Falls. 

We like to hike, and I have a subscription to Backpacker magazine. One year there was an article about hiking in Pedernales Falls State Park for a dramatic view in the fall. Mid-to-late November is the best time to see the cypresses along the riverbank change colors. So, we decided to make a trip there during Thanksgiving Break.

On this road trip to Hill Country, we took our dog Snoopy who was 6 months old at the time. It was his first long trip. We decided not to make too many visits. 

After we pitched our tent at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park , we went to town. We went to see the German Christmas Pyramid and the town’s Christmas Tree. The city put them up a week before Thanksgiving.

The next morning we went to Pedernales Falls State Park in Johnson City. It’s about an hour’s drive from where we stayed in Fredericksburg. Not too many visitors that day. I think we saw less than 10 people on the trails. 

We hiked the Pedernales Falls Trailhead, Twin Falls Nature Trail, and part of Trammell’s Crossing Trail. Cypresses were along the riverbanks, but I think Thanksgiving Break was too late to see the colors. Most leaves were already on the ground, and what was left were brown and dry leaves. It still looked beautiful, but not dramatic like the Backpacker magazine’s said.

In the afternoon we made a trip to Comfort, about a 30-minute drive from Fredericksburg. It’s a small town in the south of Fredericksburg. The reason we went there was because I wanted to visit The Elephant Story . 

The Elephant Story is a store selling a wide variety of vintage fabrics, craft products, clothing, and jewelry from Asian elephant countries. Most of the products had elephant prints. The owners opened the store to fund elephant conservation in Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. 

Then we went home the next morning with a stop at Marble Falls. From Fredericksburg to Marble Falls takes around an hour’s drive. Go on US-290 E towards Johnson City. Then turn left onto US-281 N until you get to Marble Falls.

Since it’s a quick stop, we only visited the Marble Falls downtown area. It’s not big, so it’s completely walkable. Shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and boutique galleries were dotting the area. What I liked was finding sculptures on Main Street.

Note: In Texas Hill Country, cypress trees grow along the riverbanks, such as the Guadalupe River and Frio River. In the fall, the leaves change color to vibrant orange turning the river views exceptionally beautiful. Some said the peak season is between the end of October to the end of November. I would say try to come at the end of the first week in November to the end of the third week. Lost Maples State Natural Area, Guadalupe River State Park, Garner State Park, Enchanted Rock, and Pedernales Falls State Park are a few of the best places to see fall colors.

Long Weekend Road Trips in Texas Hill Country

Long weekend road trip to fredericksburg.

Cities visited: Fredericksburg, Ingram, Boerne.

One Labor Day weekend we made another road trip to Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country. I just heard about bat emergence from Old Tunnel State Park in Fredericksburg which took place every year from May through October.

After we pitched our tent at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park in Fredericksburg, we drove to Ingram for about 30 minutes in the southwest direction. We went to see Stonehenge and Easter Island’s head and torso . 

In case you do not know, you can see both of these world’s famous on your Texas Hill Country trip. They are located at 120 Point Theatre Rd. S in Ingram.

In the late afternoon, we went to Old Tunnel State Park at 10619 Old San Antonio Road in Fredericksburg. We wanted to see millions of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from the abandoned railroad tunnel. The bats emerge every night from May to October, and you need to make a reservation to see them.

On Sunday, the second day we were in Fredericksburg, we visited the National Museum of the Pacific War at 340 E. Main St. It’s a great museum and the right place to learn about World War II in the Pacific. We spent around 4 hours here. 

After a lunch break at Rathskeller, we continued to the Pacific Combat Zone which is also part of the museum. Its location is one block away from the museum, at 508 E Austin St.

From here we went to Boerne to visit our friends. But first, we stopped at Luckenbach where ‘Everybody’s Somebody’. After all, it is located between Fredericksburg and Boerne. Just around 20 minutes drive from Fredericksburg.

On our last day in Hill Country, we took a dip in the Guadalupe River in Boerne. You can always do it at Cibolo Nature Center or somewhere along the road. But for this one, you must have a local friend that knows the right place. That’s what we did with our friends.

Long Weekend Trip to Boerne

Cities visited: Boerne and Blanco.

One Memorial Day weekend our family had a fun road trip to Boerne , another Germantown in the Texas Hill Country.

Even though Boerne is not as big as Fredericksburg, you can easily spend a long weekend there without having to visit the neighboring towns.

Our visit to Boerne started on Saturday at the Visitor Center for some info. Then we continued to the Farmers Market in Historic Herff Farm & Homestead. They have it every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm, from March to December.

While at the Homestead, we explored the area all the way to the back pasture. Wildflowers were abundant. There’s a connecting trail to Cibolo Nature Center, but we didn’t visit the center that day.

Then we went back to town and explored the Main Plaza area. Lots of old buildings, occupied by shops and restaurants/cafes.

We stayed on the campground of Cave Without a Name , just outside the city. It has a restroom facility with flush toilets and hot showers. The water source was from the river inside the cave. It was so quiet when we were there.

Our Sunday morning started with a tour inside Cave Without a Name. One of the most beautiful caves in the Hill Country. You must visit this cave while in Boerne. They even conduct music performances inside the cave. Go check Cave Without a Name website for the schedule. 

After that, we had brunch in town. Then we did the Cibolo River Trail while looking for sculptures along the trail. We also walked the Hill Country Mile, which is the 1.1 mi street along historic downtown Boerne. At the same time, we did part of the Historic Walking Tour and did a little shopping.

Then we visited two old churches in town, St. Helena’s Episcopal Church and St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Churches. 

The Kronkosky Tower, the highest point in town, is in the same complex as the Catholic church. You can see Boerne from the tower, but by appointment only. 

In the afternoon we went to Cibolo Nature Center and had fun playing in Cibolo Creek. It was shaded with towering cypress trees that canopied the creek. Even our dog Snoopy had fun here.

Our visit to Boerne ended with watching a Memorial Day Concert in the Main Plaza.

On the way home to Fort Worth, we made a stop in Blanco. We drove through Blanco State Park and strolled the historic downtown. Blanco State Park has one of the favorite swimming holes in the region.

Blanco is known as The Lavender Capital of Texas. Part of it is because Blanco is home to the first commercial lavender field in the state. Normally you can enjoy the field from late May to early July. But they were still in the early stages when we were there. The second weekend of June is where you can visit the Lavender Festival in town.

No lavender, but we got to visit Arnosky Family Farm. Texas’ premier cut flower farm on the east side of historic downtown.

Longer Road Trips in Texas Hill Country

Thanksgiving break road trip to kerrville – 5 days.

Cities visited: Burnet, Llano, Mason, Kerrville, Bandera, Castroville, Boerne, Comfort, Concan, Uvalde, Rio Frio, Leakey, Ingram, Fredericksburg, Luckenbach.

A road trip to the Texas Hill Country we did during Covid. All of the Visitor Centers were closed, as well as some businesses.

Our first stop for this Texas Hill Country road trip was Inks Lake State Park in Burnet. Famous for its Devil’s Hole swimming hole . At this time of year, the water might be too cold for a swim, but you can always hike or kayak.

Then we headed to Llano, driving through Buchanan Dam on TX-29 W. A quick dangerous stop was made when I saw the Lake Buchanan Lighthouse on the right. Cars were moving fast and it seemed nonstop from both directions. 

Llano is the Deer Capital of Texas, but of course, it’s more than deer hunting here. Explore all the cool things to do in Llano during your quick stop in town.

From Llano, we continued to Kerrville where we stayed for this trip. Instead of driving through Fredericksburg on SH-16, we stayed on TX-29 W towards Mason.

Mason is known as the Gem of the Hill Country and the only place in Texas where you can find topaz in nature. There are three places where you can mine for topaz here, but we didn’t have time to do it. Save it for another visit.

In the end, we still had to drive through outskirt Fredericksburg to get to Kerrville. This is where we stayed for 5 days, at Kerrville-Schreiner Park. 

Kerrville-Schreiner is the city’s busiest park. It has two areas separated by I-173 S. The Park Office and several camping sites and cabins are on one side, and bigger and more sites and hiking trails are on the other side. Free WiFi is only available around the Park Office.

Our campsite was across the street from the Park Office. It was big and spacious between sites.

On the second day, we visited Castroville, the Little Alsace of Texas . We drove on I-173 S to I-90 through Bandera for about an hour.

Just around 10 minutes from our campsite, we made an unplanned stop at Camp Verde General Store & Restaurant. It wasn’t in our itinerary and we never heard about the place before. 

I fell in love with Camp Verde General Store . The store was pretty and full of cool things including kitchen stuff, gifts, jewelry, baby stuff, and more. It was just a few days before Thanksgiving, but the store was ready for Christmas.

Too bad we just had our breakfast so we couldn’t eat at the restaurant. Later my friend who lives in Boerne told me that the food there was great. Put this in your itinerary.

Next stop, Bandera. Another small town in the Texas Hill Country. They proclaimed themselves as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” This is where you go for the Texas Dude Ranch.

We made a quick stop at the Courthouse Square. The Nativity Set was out in the courtyard, but instead of the three Wisemen, they had a cowboy.

Then we continued to Castroville, a charming little town that sits around 30 30-minute drive to the west of San Antonio. Explore the downtown area by foot or car, and don’t forget to stop at the only Alsatian house in Texas. It housed the Visitor Center and a small museum on the second floor. Too bad it was closed because of Covid.

From Castroville, we headed to Boerne. The downtown area was already dressed up for the holiday. It’s so pretty.

Then we continued to Comfort, another small town in the Hill Country. It’s our second time in town around Thanksgiving Break. The town was ready for Christmas, but there weren’t too many people there. The pandemic was killing businesses, but I hope it starts back on track again. 

Elephant lovers, you must stop at The Elephant Story. This was the reason we went to Comfort the first time.

Since it’s not dark yet by the time we arrived in Kerrville, we decided to drive to Ingram. It’s where you see the Texas’ Stonehenge and Easter Island torso.      

Our road trips in the Texas Hill Country continued to Garner State Park in Concan on the third day. 

Initially, we would drive through Medina and Vanderpool to see the fall colors. But just a few minutes on Ranch Road 337 from Medina to Vanderpool, the road was closed for construction works. I was bummed because the view was beautiful.   

Then we turned around and drove on Ranch Road 470 through Tarpley and Utopia. It turned out the view was beautiful, too, especially the part between Utopia and Garner SP.

At Garner State Park we hiked to Old Baldy to see the spectacular fall view of Frio River from the summit. Apparently, it’s already at the end of fall, so the colors weren’t sharp anymore. But it’s still beautiful. 

Then we drove to Uvalde, famous for its Opera House. It is located right across the courthouse. At this time of year, the courthouse was ready for Christmas, too.

From here we drove on TX-55 N towards Camp Wood. Here we turned east to Leakey. 

From Leakey, we went back to Kerrville. We followed US-83 N to TX-41 E, then made a right to I-10 E. It was a beautiful drive, too. There was part between TX-41 E and I-10E that reminded me of the drive in Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado.

On Thanksgiving Day, we went to Enchanted Rock near Fredericksburg. We made a morning reservation because at this time of year weather in the Texas Hill Country could still warm around noon.

My son and I went to the summit and did several other trails before we met my husband and Snoopy in the car. Dogs are not allowed on all elevated areas including the Summit Trail. So, my husband took him to part of Loop Trail, the trek around the perimeter of the park.

Then we went to town for our Thanksgiving lunch. We had lunch at the only restaurant opened that day, Cultures. I had Wiener Schnitzel, my husband had Chicken Fried Steak, and a burger for our son. We sat outside, so Snoopy could come with us.

After lunch, we walked around the main street. So quiet, I could count people on the street. It’s a good time to take pictures, especially around the Christmas Tree and the Christmas Pyramid.

Before we went back to our campsite, we visited The Coming King Sculpture Prayer Garden in Kerrville. 

Back at the campsite, I saw our neighbor enjoying their deep-fried turkey for supper while we had grilled cheese. Haha…

Since the radar showed an 80% chance of thunderstorms starting at 9 a.m. for the rest of the day, we decided to pack and go home.

But first, we stopped at Luckenbach. It’s so quiet and they were about to open. For people who like crowds at this place, maybe it’s not a good time to visit. We liked it because we could take pictures without others in the frame.

Then we continued to LBJ National Historical Park and Sauer Beckmann Farm in Stonewall. We were probably the first visitors at both places. We’ve been here before but without our dog Snoopy.

Pedernales Falls was our last stop in this 5-day road trip in the Texas Hill Country. There weren’t too many people like in the summertime or Spring Break. Too bad the water volume was a bit low that day.

RV Trip to Fredericksburg – 4 Days

Cities visited: Fredericksburg and Johnson City.

Just recently we spent four days in Fredericksburg with our Small Group friends. Two couples in our group haven’t been to Fredericksburg before. Four days in Germantown (including travel times) would be a good introduction for them.

For this trip, we stayed in the Vineyards of Fredericksburg RV Park . Check-in time at the campground was 2 p.m. That’s when we met with others.

Day 1 – Monday

Before we got to Fredericksburg, we made a stop at Baby Head Cemetery in Llano. Its location is around 9.5 miles south of Llano. If you come from the DFW area, you will get here before Llano. 

For supper on the first night, we decided to eat dinner in town. We ate at Auslander on 323 E Main St. because it’s a pet-friendly restaurant. Our dog Snoopy could sit with us at the Biergarten. 

The food was good, but the wait was super long. I couldn’t blame the restaurant, because we were a group of eleven and they only had one table that could fit a big group like us.      

Day 2 – Tuesday

Not that we didn’t want to cook breakfast, but today was the only chance for us to eat breakfast at an Old German Bakery Restaurant. Originally we would go there on Wednesday, but they closed that day. The food was really good, you must give it a try.

After breakfast, we went to Pottery Ranch. I couldn’t believe my eyes at all the stuff they have there. You might need a trailer if you plan to shop here. Seriously!

Then we went to Jenschke Orchards for peach picking . They open from May to September for peach picking, February to May for strawberries, May to June for blackberries, September to October for pumpkins, and November to December for Christmas Trees. It’s a fun experience!

Jenschke Orchards’ location is 8301 US-290. It’s around a 15-minute drive from Main Street to the west. 

From here we drove to Johnson City for lunch and planned to visit the Boyhood Home of LBJ. We canceled the trip to LBJ’s place because everyone was exhausted from the peach picking. It was really hot that day. 

We had a good lunch at Proof and Cooper the Lumberyard. It has outdoor seating where Snoopy could come with us.    

On the way back to Fredericksburg, we visited Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park .

When everyone else went back to the campground, we stopped at Das Peachhaus. We just like the place, so it’s like a mandatory stop when we are in Fredericksburg.

Day 3 – Wednesday

In the morning we visited the National Museum of the Pacific War at 311 E Austin St. It’s a cool museum that you must visit if you haven’t been yet. Everything you want to know about the Pacific War during World War II is here.

After having lunch at a pet-friendly Tubby’s Ice House across from the museum, some of us went back to the museum, and some of us went for a stroll around Main St.

We stopped at Der Kuchen Laden, a kitchen store that is also one of our favorite places in town. Then we went to a dog owner’s must-visit store, the Dogologie. We also went to Dooley’s 5-10 & 25c Store.

After a yogurt treat (it was another hot day in Fredericksburg,) we went to Das Peachhaus. Second time for us during the trip, but the first time for our friends.

Day 4 – Thursday

It’s time to go home. I was sad because I couldn’t get anything from the Old German Bakery & Restaurant. They also closed every Thursday.

Store hours in Fredericksburg are a bit weird. Some of them are closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, while some others are closed on Wednesday and Thursday. I think it’s because they rely heavily on tourists who mostly come for the weekend.

On the way home we stopped at pecan.com in Goldthwaite. I just wanted to check what’s in the store, and I was glad we made a stop. I have found the best pecan Sandie cookies ever from their store. If you like pecan sandies and drive through Goldthwaite, stop here. Of course, they have all kinds of pecans as well.

Spring Break Road Trip in the Texas Hill Country – 4 Days

Cities visited: Fredericksburg, San Saba , Stonewall, Mason, Johnson City, Burnet.

One Spring Break we went for a road trip to the Texas Hill Country. We pitched a tent at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park in Fredericksburg and visited different state parks in the Texas Hill Country.

As always, our first stop on the way to the Texas Hill Country is Hico. A small town about an hour and a half drive to the southwest of Fort Worth. We liked to grab donuts or cinnamon rolls from Koffee Kup and chocolate treats from Wiseman House Chocolate in town.

From Hico, we followed US-287 S to Hamilton, then turned to TX-16 S to Llano. 

When we got to Llano, we turned to Rural Road 152. It is said as one of the scenic drives in the Hill Country that will “take your breath away” during springtime. I guess it was too early as we didn’t see any wildflowers. We ended up in Mason, the Gem of the Hill Country.

After we pitched our tent at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, we made a quick visit to downtown Fredericksburg. It’s about a 10-minute drive, depending on the traffic. 

A scoop of ice cream from Clear River Pecan Co. on E Main St. was always a special treat when in town.    

In the morning we went to C olorado Bend State Park near San Saba. We spent about 5 hours there, hiking to the famous Gorman Falls and a few other trails.

From Fredericksburg to the park was about 1 hr 30 min drive. We drove on TX-16 N towards San Saba passing Llano. Before we got to San Saba, we turned east from Cherokee to Bend.

It was a long day and we decided to take a rest by the time we got back to the campground. 

Today’s trip was a bit of a history tour in the morning. We visited Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park and Sauer-Beckmann Farm in Stonewall.

After lunch, we went to Pedernales Falls State Park in Johnson City. It’s about a 30-minute drive from LBJ National Historical Park.

Pedernales Falls is one of the must-visit state parks in Hill Country with its unique potholes. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit because the water might be warm enough for swimming.

Last day in the Texas Hill Country. Our first stop on the way home was Enchanted Rock. It’s a must-visit on your first time in Fredericksburg. 

Enchanted Rock gets very busy during the Spring Break. Check their website whether you must make a reservation to get in. If not, try to arrive before 8 a.m. to secure a parking spot. Whenever parking is full, they will close the park until spots are available.

Our next stop was Llano, to have lunch at Cooper’s BBQ. It was really delicious!

Then we continued to Inks Lake State Park in Burnet. We drove through TX-29 E and Bluebonnet and Indian paintbrushes were blanketing the roadsides already. Very pretty!

We didn’t stay long in the park. It was late and we still had 3 hours to drive before we got home. For a short visit like this, make sure you walk to Devil’s Waterhole.

The Texas Hill Country is my favorite place to visit in Texas. My family and I like to visit the region, and we don’t see a plan to stop road-tripping here. There are so many places that we haven’t got to see, and there are places that we like to revisit. 

Over time I will add more itineraries to this article. If you notice, I didn’t even put San Antonio or Austin here, because those cities deserve their own articles. There are so many things to see and do there. 

I hope you can use these itineraries for your future road trips in Texas Hill Country.

Thank you for sharing this:

Umiko Buhl is a travel blogger and the founder of Two Worlds Treasures. She travels around Texas to neighboring states and around the country with her family and dog from their family home in the south of Dallas/Fort Worth. Originally from Indonesia, she tries to go home every 2-3 years to spend time with her families and friends while exploring Indonesia. Her mission is to share her honest reviews of places she visited.

Similar Posts

Driving The Million Dollar Highway in Southwest Colorado

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from the discount codes used or when a link/ad is clicked. All purchases made will come at no extra cost to you, and I only include products and services that I have personally used and would recommend. Also, Two Worlds Treasures…

Guide to Dinosaur Valley State Park Fall Colors

Are you planning a trip to Dinosaur Valley State Park to see the fall colors? I can assure you that it is tricky. For the past three years, I’ve visited Dinosaur Valley State Park during the fall season and documented my visits with my cell camera. Now I’m going to tell you what I discovered…

Camping in Ouray Colorado: A Review of 4J + 1 + 1 RV Park & RV Campground

Quick Stops Between Fort Worth and Fredericksburg Texas

I always think back road is the best choice to take from Fort Worth to Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country, rather than the highway (I-35W). Less traffic and more scenic, and what’s better than finding Texas’ small towns gems between North Texas and the Hill Country? When I mentioned a quick stop, it means…

Fall Foliage in Daingerfield State Park, Texas.

Fall is the best time to visit Daingerfield State Park in Texas. Every published article about fall foliage in Texas included Daingerfield State Park as one of the best places for leaf peeping. Disclaimer: Two Worlds Treasures is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases….

2 Days in Acadia National Park with a Dog (or without)

Just recently we spent 2 days in Acadia National Park with our dog Snoopy. It was our first time in Acadia, and we know that we must go back for longer days. Acadia’s natural beauty is amazing, a mix of shorelines, forests, and mountains. Not to mention that Acadia is one of the dog-friendliest National…

28 Comments

I never knew that there were so many great road trips that you could do in Texas Hill County. You have put together a good selection of itineraries that cover a different areas which I like. I would definitely do the Long Weekend Trip to Boerne to see the Cave Without a Name.

You won’t be disappointed on your visit to Cave Without a Name. It’s really beautiful!

There are some pretty adventurous road trips! I would love to do a fall color road trip in Pedernales Falls State Park. I have heard about the Devil’s Hole swimming hole years ago and always wanted to visit it. Pinning this for when we make it to TX!

Such a diverse landscape! These road trips would be an incredible adventure project for me. With tour of the vineyards and wine tasting included the road trip itineraries sound so good.

I do like the look of those caves and would make them a priority when choosing from your day trips. So many amazing places to visit.

Darn! Wish I had this last summer. Saving for next time!

I love the Christmastime idea! I also had no idea there were so many wineries. I haven’t explored Texas much, but I need to. So fun!

It’s not a surprise that not too many people know about wineries in Texas, especially because Texas is hot.

Love all these exciting road trips. There’s always something to do, not just at the destinations, but alpng the way as well!

Such a great article for first time visitors, I’d definitely love to check out the Devil’s Hole swimming hole, looks similar to a place I’ve been to in Mexico

True! So many ideas for first time visitors.

The state passport is probably so much fun! I hope they reinstate it soon. The NPS has one too, and I collect the stamps at each one. Texas has such a diverse landscape, all of these road trips would be an incredible adventure. It would be so hard to choose which one to do!

I really hope they reinstate the passport program. My son also has the NPS passport.

Did someone say wine? I’ll admit I didn’t know that there were vineyards in Texas, but of course it makes sense now! I’d be very interested in a doing a tour of the vineyards and wine tasting and being shuttled around! What a super idea!

I’ve seen ladies used the shuttle most. Probably they did girls’ weekend getaway.

Love that you’ve broken down the various itineraries into time frames—you can’t do it all, especially if you only have a day so good to prioritize. Hill Country is by far my favorite part of Texas. The rock formations, wineries, swimming holes, and charming towns always make it so much fun.Next time you go, hit up Enchanted Rock…it’s incredible!

Oh, we have visited Enchanted Rock twice. I mentioned about the park under the Spring Break and Thanksgiving Breaks. A must-see for visiting Texas Hill Country for the first time.

The Trail Passport sounds like lots of fun, especially for the adventure kids who like to collect or tick things off. I’ve done something similar with the Dinosaur Trail in Australia. It sounds like you’ve had such a blast exploring so much of what Texas Hill Country has to offer. It’s also nice to hear the fur baby gets to explore with you!

Yes! The passport is a good idea, just like National Parks Passport. Kids and adults, too, love it. And that’s what we like about the Hill Country. Most places are pet-friendly.

Guadalupe River looks like a scene from another country — love the trees and reflection in the water! So many things actually to see and do in the Texas Hills region. I, too, prefer backroads exploring and would love to check out at least a portion of your itinerary. Particularly interested in the caves and seeing some fall colors!

Love the idea of spending the Christmas Break in Fredericksburg. A trip to the wineries sounds really nice. Happy to know that there are many tour operators and shuttle services available. Will definitely consider this.

Wow so many ideas for the road trips. I usually love the short one or two days road trips. Honestly, I have never been to Texas but have had it on my list for a long time. I think I would love to follow one of these itineraries to do the road trip. I especially like the idea of visiting the places that have some water bodies.

Texas is big. Even though Texas Hill Country is not that big, but some of the towns are located far from each other. So, you can’t always visit them in one day.

I have to admit that I never heard of Texas Hill County before, but it seems there is a lot to do. I would enjoy exploring some of the caves you mentioned in your post. And of course do some of the hikes.

What a great variety for road trips in Texas Hill Country. We too prefer taking the back roads for our road trips. A great way to find fun things you had not planned on seeing. I do love in these times that so many of the road trips offer great outdoor fun. Caves, waterfalls and fall colours are all great ways to enjoy a day outside. Great fun for the family and your dog. A great post to save for a visit one day.

I’ve never really thought about visiting Texas Hill Country, but it sounds like a great thing to do. All your Texas Hill Country itineraries sounds great, I love the idea of the 5 day Thanksgiving Road trip. Seems like you’d need a good amount of time to see everything there is to see.

I think Texas Hill Country is the best region to visit in Texas. And yes, there are so many places and things to do whenever you go back to the region.

Such a great number of choices for locals and tourists alike for day trips and things to do. I think what I would like to experience the most would be Christmas Break in Fredericksburg. It sounds like the perfect place to get you in the holiday spirit.

Any thoughts? Leave your reply here. Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Discover more from TWO WORLDS TREASURES

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Food and Drink

This Epic Texas Road Trip Visits Underrated Vineyards and Rolling Hills Blanketed in Bluebonnets

Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful stretches of the Lone Star State, and its impressive wine scene is only growing.

Mariah Tyler is Travel + Leisure's associate visuals director. She is a photographer and writer who covers Texas, Mexico, desert and city destinations, and design-forward hotels. She also commissions photo essays that highlight diverse voices in travel and unique cultural experiences.

From early spring well into early winter, there is always a great time to take a weekend trip through Texas Hill Country — home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Texas.

This vast, rural region of south-central Texas is conveniently close to all major cities. Its rolling hills are only an hour-long drive from Austin and San Antonio and a four-hour jaunt from Dallas and Houston. You will not have an easier day trip in the largest continental state in the country.

The hills dotted with sprawling cypress and oak trees make for an idyllic road trip route that's especially picturesque in spring and fall. Some of the lushest fields of bluebonnets bloom in spring, and there's nothing more Texan than a bluebonnet photograph .

The main attraction of the region is no longer a secret — Texas Hill Country has become widely known as Texas Wine Country. In fact, Texas is the fifth-highest wine-producing state and is home to the fifth-highest number of wineries, according to data from WineAmerica.org . Texas wine isn't new, but it is rapidly growing, and the quality is only getting better as growers perfect the grapes that do best in the rocky Texas soil.

There are a few noteworthy towns along Highway 290, better known as the Texas Wine Trail, where you will find numerous vacation rentals and historic hotels. Some newer and noteworthy rental accommodations to book are Honey Tree Farm for a real treehouse experience, A-Frame Ranch for tucked-away luxury cabins, and Blue Skies Retro Resort for incredibly fun vintage trailer stays. For a true luxury experience with zero hassle, book a stay at La Cantera Resort & Spa , a Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards winner outside of San Antonio, and their concierge will plan a wine country tour day trip for you.

When it comes to touring wineries, there are bus and limousine tours, of course, but for a more intimate experience, designate a driver to achieve the real road trip vibe. (Drivers should be weary of the abundant deer population along the roadway.) From Dripping Springs to Fredericksburg, the wineries and distilleries are in such abundance, planning can quickly become overwhelming for the first-timer.

The best route to choose is based on wine preference, notable wineries, and approximate distance to your booked accommodation. The Texas Vintners Cup is a solid start for selecting award-winning wineries.

Lost Draw Cellars and Slate Theory Winery are in Fredericksburg and offer tastings by reservation. Out on the wine trail, in Hye, Texas, William Chris Vineyards boasts panoramic views of Hill Country from its stunning modern welcome center and Hye Society Wine Club. The new building opened in 2019, and the wine tastings in the library offer a delectable crash course in Texas wines. From learning about the best Texas-grown grapes to sampling the best vintages available, the expert-guided tasting is a valuable experience.

Back in the town of Fredericksburg, take a stroll down Main Street, where you can sip wine and beer while you shop. With a long history of German influence, Otto's German Bistro is the best place in town for a Texas German dinner. For the brunch lovers, Hill & Vine offers a unique brunch menu with black-eyed pea hummus and peachy pecan pancakes. Short on time and need a bite to go? Hye Market and Deli has delicious sandwiches, perfect for lunch in between tastings.

Nature enthusiasts can experience Pedernales Falls State Park and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area — each one has options for anyone who loves to hike, swim, and even ride on horseback. Texas Hill Country, with its winding roads and hilly vistas of live oak trees and prickly pear, is one of the most scenic places in the Lone Star State and offers some of the best wines east of California.

Over the Hills

A travel guide to Texas Bluebonnet Country, without the Bluebonnets

by Alexandra Kennon Shahin

March 22, 2023

Alexandra Kennon

Jacob’s Well Natural Area, just northwest of Wimberley, Texas

This story was supposed to be about bluebonnets.

For those who have not spent considerable time visiting or romanticizing rural Texas, bluebonnets are the small, wispy, purplish-blue-colored wildflowers that drape the state’s highway medians and cow pastures in regal robes of indigo each spring. The “Yellow Rose of Texas” may have been responsible for saving the Alamo, but it’s the bluebonnets that wildly contribute to the Hill Country’s natural beauty, and keep tourists and locals alike pulling cars over to snap photographs, year after year.

The biggest show of bluebonnets we saw on this Hill Country excursion was not on the roadside, unfortunately, but at the lovely Wildseed Farms near Fredericksburg.

The bluebonnets were what brought us to Texas a couple of days before our friends’ wedding south of Austin, and kept us a couple of days after they exchanged vows. But at the time of our excursion, the lingering impacts of an unseasonable drought rendered the bluebonnets all but non-existent. Spotting one or two drooping speciments on the roadside, I’d jump with excitement, eagerly alerting my Austin-raised partner Sam, “There!” Each time, he would sigh: “Yeah, but it’s not the same. They’re normally everywhere this time of year. Seas of them.” We heard the sentiment again and again from locals, especially those invested in tourists like us who flock to these hills each spring.

Where we missed the bluebonnets, we found plenty of pit barbecue, country music history, unexpected natural wonders, chicken fried steak, local libations, and colorful characters—making it a much more than worthwhile adventure.

[Read about another Texas excursion taken by writer Alex and her partner Sam, which landed them in the serendipitous position of being judges at a chili cook-off in Marble Falls.] 

Lone Star Court

The Hill Country is plenty worthwhile on its own accord, but admittedly, the close proximity to Austin is a major asset.

Though Lone Star Court, the boutique hotel where we were staying, is part of North Austin’s upscale shopping area The Domain, its design foreshadowed our more rural Hill Country experience to come. A Tiffany blue vintage Buick Roadmaster (or that’s my guess based on Googling, so don’t come for me, car people) with Texas plates and a sixties motel-style neon sign brandishing “Lone Star Court” greeted us out front. After we checked in inside the smartly cowhide-accented office, a fragrant waft of woodsmoke beckoned from a barbecue smoker on the sprawling covered courtyard: “Welcome to Texas”.

Lone Star Court in Austin

As if a remote southwest highway motel received a metropolitan education, the accommodations at Lone Star Court have each their own outdoor entrances overlooking the courtyard, outfitted with a pair of rocking chairs and a ceiling fan. The retro motel atmosphere carried into our room, which greeted us with cold Lone Star beers in the vintage-style Smeg refrigerator (the same shade of blue as the Buick) and local salsa and snacks. A sliding barn door to the sleek, pristine bathroom and leather chair with the exposed-wood desk conjured a ranch house feel—the cloud-soft mattress and smooth, cool Egyptian cotton sheets reminded us we were in a luxury hotel in recently-reimagined North Austin.

Fredericksburg & Enchanted Rock

We started out early the next morning with the under two-hour drive to Fredericksburg . The further out we got, the subdivisions and shopping centers gave way to long stretches of pasture speckled with cows and cacti, occasionally broken up by ranch houses—longhorn-adorned iron gates protecting their long gravel driveways.

Then, rising up like a Western movie set, came the town of Fredericksburg. Though founded on land originally occupied by Comanche Native Americans, the town received its name, derived from Prince Frederick of Prussia, upon its founding by German settlers in 1846. Today, the downtown length of Main Street stretches flat and picturesque, lined with over 150 locally-owned shops, restaurants, and galleries in historic buildings bearing Texas and German flags.

The Marketplatz Fredericksburg

After a stop by the tourism office, we met Sam’s cousin Gary, a local peach farmer, for breakfast at Caliche Coffee . We were impressed by the wide-ranging menu options that nodded to the Southwest and beyond—Sam went for the earthy red chile-sauced Chilaquiles; I had some kind of yogurt and granola parfait laced with a gingery, citrusy ribbon of fruit; and Gary generously let me snap a photo of his thick avocado toast, loaded with colorful veggie garnishes and boiled egg. As we sipped our coffee on the sunny back deck, Gary told us about the many changes increased tourism has brought to Fredericksburg, and a few things that have stubbornly and gloriously remained the same (like the General Store). It wasn’t lost on me how my being there to write about my visit for a magazine, photographing his avocado toast, was fairly emblematic of the things that Gary cited were fueling this change; he was warm, friendly, and matter-of-factly hospitable regardless.

[Add Marble Falls to your Hill Country itinerary, using this travel guide by Managing Editor Jordan LaHaye Fontenot]

Next, we headed for Enchanted Rock . The massive, orangey pink granite dome’s name comes from the considerable lore associated with it—local Comanche, Apache, and Tonkawa tribes believed the rock possessed spiritual and magical powers. Legends range from the rock making Native people invisible to aid them in hiding from Anglo settlers, to the Tonkawa believing ghost fires light the top of the dome, and reporting it creaking (which geologists believe is a result of the stone contracting at night after being heated by the sun during the day).

Chilaquiles at Caliche Coffee in downtown Fredericksburg.

As is true of most Texas State Parks and Natural Areas, reservations at Enchanted Rock are highly recommended since the park closes when it reaches capacity. The park offers around eight and a half miles of hiking trails throughout—experienced hikers can opt to take the full 4.6 mile loop trail, and more leisurely sight-seers can take the 0.1 mile Scenic View Trail or easy 0.3 mile Frontside Trail. With limited time and over-confident estimations of our hiking capabilities, we opted for the fairly challenging 0.8 mile Summit Trail, which takes visitors directly to the top of Enchanted Rock.

The hike up to Enchanted Rock

The incline was steep enough to be quite invigorating—at least at first—as we galumphed ahead, stopping every hundred yards or so to turn around and marvel at the increasingly-impressive view of the surrounding Hill Country as we ascended. About a third of the way from the top, I had to stop to sit down on a rock. I don’t normally struggle with vertigo, but something about a hike that gradually steep (and my continuous turns to look back down and admire the view) had me a bit lightheaded. After a grounding little water break, we pressed forward to the top—and from the very peak of the mysterious not-quite-mountain, the lofty perspective of the vast, arid landscape around us was well worth the effort. The descent was a quick and pleasant reward for our efforts on the way up.

Feeling accomplished, we headed back into town to meet Gary and his partner Kaye for lunch at Hill & Vine . The “Texas table and wine hall” offers creatively-laid-back, locally-inspired-and-sourced dishes like chicken schnitzel with chimichurri and grilled lemon, a watermelon and green tomato salad with spiced pecans and herbed goat cheese, a Texas cheeseburger with local Wagyu and house-brined pickles, and pimento mac & cheese you can add pulled pork to. We all thoroughly enjoyed our entrées, and I was surprised that when I hesitated to order the Roadside Fried Pies—hand pies made with local peaches and spiced pecans—Gary intervened. He wanted to try them, too. Even having spent much of his life on a peach orchard, he still appreciated the deliciousness of the local bounty—particularly decadent wrapped in its crispy-thin pastry, Texas rum sauce, and local Clear River ice cream.

Hill & Vine in Fredericksburg

After lunch, we moseyed around Fredericksburg’s historic downtown area. We made our obligatory stop in the Marketplatz, the historic park at the center of town that surrounds the Vereins Kirche—an octagonal building that has been rebuilt on the site of Fredericksburg’s first church and school, that today houses a museum of Fredericksburg’s history.

[Planning summer travels? How about Florida? Here's our travel guide along the coast.]

Down the street, Rustlin’ Robs overwhelmed and excited us, with its absurdly varied selection of hot sauces, dip mixes, spices, and more stretching from the floor all the way to the vintage-knick-knack-covered ceiling. Other stores we perused offered everything from women’s clothing, to cowboy boots, to home goods, to chocolate truffles, to gag gifts. Clear River Ice Cream and Bakery touted a huge list of small batch flavors, and claimed to have the “Best Peach Cobbler in Texas” (still full from the hand pies, we were unable to verify).

Speaking of peaches, a little further out from Main Street, Das Peach Haus is worth a visit. The family-owned company Fischer & Wieser Specialty Foods’ jams, jellies, and sauces are long-standing staples of area grocery stores; the current shop sits in the same location as the family’s historic peach stand from 1870, which remains on site. It’s surrounded by tall pine trees, which were planted by a previous generation and remain towering over the sweet wooden shop and Adirondack-surrounded pond out back.

The Adirondacks just behind Das Peach Haus

Bolstered by its German heritage, Fredericksburg has always been a leader in this country’s craft beer scene— Fredericksburg Brewing Company right on the Main Street stretch has been open since 1994, giving it the distinction of the “Oldest brewpub in Texas”.

Serious beer connoisseurs will also want to prioritize a visit to Altstadt Brewery , opened in 2018 on an impressive Bavarian-inspired campus further out from the downtown stretch. Altstadt’s brewers implement principles of Reinheitsgebot, German beer purity laws that date back to the 1500s, and brew Altstadt’s beers using a copper-plated rolec brewhouse imported from Germany. The restaurant on-site continues the trend of elevated Texas-meets-German-inspired dishes, brewer-led tours are available, live music acts frequently play the Grand Hall, and there’s even a museum of vintage tractors that’s free for visitors to check out.

Beyond beer, the hills surrounding Fritztown propagate a rich vineyard scene—with ample tour options.

We were steered toward Becker Vineyards Estate Tasting Room , one of the more impressive, with its imposing stone facade and fifty-six acres of vineyards on an over-three-hundred-acre estate. While founders Dr. Richard Becker and his wife Bunny were in France studying the Viognier grape (which they would be the first to commercially plant in Texas), they observed the abundance of lavender plants thriving in that dry and arid climate. In 1998, they enlisted their daughter and friends to assist in planting 10,000 lavender plants at their estate vineyard, which has grown to three acres and now includes poppies, bluebonnets, sunflowers, and zinnias. Becker even hosts an annual Lavender Festival , whose twenty-fourth edition will take place the weekend of April 15–16, 2023.

Down 290, Wildseed Farms also offers stunning wild floral displays, with bluebonnets and other wildflowers (when in season) stretching to the horizon, a Brew Bonnet Biergarten, and a cute associated gift shop (we bought a couple of shot glasses with little bluebonnets painted on the side, to drown our sorrows over the drought).

Luckenbach, Willow City Loop & Llano

A full day exploring Fredericksburg under our belts (and still so much left on the table for next time), we headed southeast toward one of the more legendary destinations on our itinerary (in a landscape full of legends, jutting out of the desert like Enchanted Rock). In under twenty minutes, we arrived at Luckenbach : an autonomous zone where country music history and reverence thereof surpass all else on that beer-soaked acreage. It started as a trading post in 1849 that is said to have never broken a peace treaty with the Comanche Native Americans who utilized it alongside German settlers. The small community grew to include a cotton gin, a blacksmith, and a school, and the population increased to nearly five hundred residents at its highest in 1904, before steeply declining over the course of the next several decades. In 1970, an advertisement in a local paper touted “town — pop. 3 — for sale,” which earned the attention of rancher and Texas folklorist/writer Hondo Crouch, rancher Kathy Morgan, and actor Guich Koock, who together bought Luckenbach in 1970 for $30,000. In 1973, Jerry Jeff Walker recorded the groundbreaking country rock record Viva Terlingua in the local Dancehall—that was three years before Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson would launch Luckenbach to worldwide fame with the hit “Luckenbach Texas (Back to the Basics)” .

The Post Office and General Store in Luckenbach.

With its dancehall and funky tree-branch-draped outdoor stages, Luckenbach continues to host regular live country acts for audiences who also enjoy sipping local beer and pursuing the kitschy items in the historic Post Office and General Store . We sat at a picnic table in the shade sipping Altstadt Pilsner watching the weeknight pickers’ circle guitarist play and crack jokes as the sun teased at setting.

Wanting to maximize our remaining daylight and take advantage of already being so far out, we impulsively decided to knock the Willow City Loop off of our itinerary that evening. Willow City Loop is a thirteen-mile meandering drive through some of the most scenic countryside in the Hill Country—the narrow ranch road brought us over creeks, past craggy rock formations, plenty of “loose cattle” signs and what they warn of, and other wildlife. Even though we were too early for the bluebonnets and other wildflowers that make Willow City Loop “the iconic Texas Hill Country scenic drive,” I was captivated by the ruggedly remote landscape.

[Read another travel guide by Arts & Entertainment Editor Alex Kennon, this time closer to home in Mandeville.]

And then, like a beautiful Texan beacon on that lonely ranch road (one perk of our random evening drive out of season was that we entirely avoided the traffic that can come with such a famous route), there was the road sign, matter-of-factly telling us that Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Q in Llano was less than twenty miles north. Having been raised by a Texas barbecue reviewer, Sam extolled the virtues of the legendary joint, and we took off. A young man lording over a vault-like pit holding links of sausage, massive pork chops, quarters of chicken, a sizable brisket, and racks of ribs greeted us. Sam pointed out the exact pork chop and sausage links we wanted and asked him to slice from the fattier side of the brisket. Then we took our tray inside to round up sides of simple ham-hock flavored pinto beans, potato salad, and mac ‘n’ cheese. As we moaned through each smokey, fatty bite of simply-seasoned perfection dunked in thin, porky sauce, a dozen sets of mounted deer eyes upon us,  we were reminded of the delicious rewards that often come with willingness to go a few extra miles for something truly special.

Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Q

Blanco & Wimberley

The next day, departing from our Austin launchpad one last time, we grabbed migas for breakfast at one of Sam’s no-frills Tex-Mex favorites, Enchiladas Y Mas . Then, back into the Hill Country we went—this time with our sights set on Jacob’s Well Spring at the head of Cypress Creek, northwest of Wimberley . What makes Jacob’s Well notable is its impressive underwater cave that descends vertically for about thirty feet. The crystal clear water allows visitors to see pretty far down the well, which is a popular natural swimming destination. Arriving after a short walk from the parking lot, we found a family enjoying the swimming hole and opted to sit on the walkway and stick our bare feet in the water, as icy cool and clean as its crystal blueness promised, contrasted by the midday sun beating against the back of our necks.

Next, we set our sights on Blanco State Park —only to be seduced along the way by a small red building with a rusty tin roof promising “Homemade Apple Pie”. Like out of a nostalgic dream, the Deutsch Apple Bakery displayed apple pastries of any and every variety, lovingly shaped by hand, beautifully rustic; piled high in the case alongside blackberry pie bars, some local delicacy called butter bars, lemon lavender cookies, and so much more. A kind-eyed older lady piled too many sweets to justify on a road trip into boxes for us, and asked about where we were from. “This might be my favorite bakery ever,” I said incoherently through bites of the thick and crumbly blackberry pie bar back in the car, an assessment I stand by as only slightly hyperbolic. Four days later, when we had returned home to New Orleans, I broke into a loaf of apple pecan bread and marveled anew at how it could still be so moist, so rich in buttery spice.

The Deutsch Apple

Blanco State Park covers a one-mile stretch of the Blanco River’s banks, where visitors enjoy swimming, picnicking, camping, and bountiful fishing with no license required. We watched as kids and their parents enjoyed walking along the top of a dam and exploring safe and shallow waters nearby, before departing for our lodging near Wimberley.

The restored 1956 Airstream that would be our home for the weekend emerged at the center of a private clearing in the woods—a hammock draped invitingly beside it. We used the provided wagon to deliver bags from the car, and marveled at the Airstream’s restoration—with warm wooden interior details and ‘60s inspired white furnishings, party games, and a cocktail shaker in the window. A separate tin structure housed the bathroom, and a surrounding deck came equipped with a propane grill and hot tub.

[Read this : A Travel Guide to Birmingham—French Bistros, Local Brews, and Botanical Gardens in Birmingham]

The next day was our friends’ big wedding day, and Sam was in the groom’s party. So, while he hustled off to fulfill his groomsman duties of tie-tying and whiskey swigging, I was left to get better acquainted with the hammock and explore downtown Wimberley’s shops on my own. We’d done a bit of preliminary roaming as we drove the winding, tree-shaded country roads coming in the previous day, admiring the homes along the Blanco River and pointing out stray cattle and deer. While the scenery surrounding Fredericksburg and Johnson City was so striking in its open, desert landscape; Wimberley with its plentiful trees and swimming holes evoked a more whimsical, wooded feel.

Shadowland Ranch’s restored 1956 airstream, near Wimberley

I was eager to peruse the funky smattering of shops that seemed to split their allegiance between Western and hippy aesthetics; plenty chaotically incorporating both. Some carried cowboy boots and kitschy coffee mugs, some kept stock a bit more colorful (literally, in some cases—I bought a pair of bright orange socks printed with expletives for a friend). The next morning, I would drag Sam back to show him Los Olivos Market : a Texas wine, craft beer, and olive oil market that sold charcuterie boards and other bites, where I bought a bottle of Texas Hill Country Olive Co. olive oil infused with Harissa and another with white balsamic. Continually on a quest for the elusive bluebonnet, I also grabbed a couple of Texas-shaped wooden magnets with the purplish flowers printed on them at a print shop. “Yeah, that drought has been hard on ‘em this season,” the salesman sighed, wrapping my consolation prize in tissue paper. “You should really come back in a couple weeks.”

The next morning, after some more cloying, crumbling bites of Deutsch Apple delicacies on our deck, we headed to Cypress Falls Swimming Hole —a site we’d noticed advertised on a roadside sign a few days prior. We parked along the blueish green water and ambled up to the open bar/deck/boat rental operation that had clearly received the “funky-fun” memo Wimberley operates on. $8 gives visitors access to the deck and swimming hole all day, and only $10 gets you a canoe, paddle board, or tube rental. I asked the guy who handed us our paddles and helped carry our canoe to the water if we’d need life vests. “You’re overthinkin’ it,” he laughed at me. “It’s like, four feet deep.”

Cypress Falls Swimming Hole in Wimberley

Comforted, we shoved out onto the sun-reflective water and paddled around leisurely for around an hour, stopping across the way to climb a big natural rock formation before returning the boat. We could have been quite happy sipping local beer and watching the boats and families splash about from a wicker chair on that deck the rest of the afternoon, but it was our last day in the area, and we had more ground to cover.

Suckers for Tex-Mex and particularly susceptible when in the land of it, we grabbed lunch at Durango’s in Wimberley—a bright orange building that called with its promise of “Homemade tortillas” painted on the window. We ordered a plate of huevos smothered in a green chile sauce next to spicy carne guisada, refried beans, hashbrowns, and bacon, and a cup of menudo in the naive hope that we would both forget our disdain for tripe long enough to enjoy the spicy red soup. We agreed that if we were to enjoy menudo, that would have been a good one.

While we were eating, Sam’s buddy Calvin invited us to join him and his dad at nearby Devil’s Backbone Tavern in Fischer. It’s named for The Devil’s Backbone, a limestone ridge in the area that’s known as a scenic-if-incredibly-haunted drive, beloved as a backdrop in Western films.

Durango's in Wimberley

After pulling up to the legendary dive bar and honky tonk dancehall, we walked past the conglomeration of bikers and cowboys and their big slobbery dogs holding court at picnic tables out back. Inside, we were greeted by a dimly-lit world of Lone Star beer, the twang of country music, and allegedly the oldest shuffleboard in Texas (regulation length). Saloon-style vintage light fixtures crusted with dust, lit-up domestic beer signs, a skeleton in a cowboy hat, and hundreds of tattered dollar bills affixed to the ceiling completed the atmosphere. We grabbed glass bottled Lone Stars and moseyed into the dancehall portion, where we listened to the Michael O’Connor band play for a few songs, couples occasionally getting up to dance on this Sunday afternoon. “You didn’t pay nothin’, the least you can do is dance,” O’Connor prodded the crowd. When Calvin and his dad arrived, we joined them for a game of shuffleboard, feeling part of the singular local scene as we took our shots at knocking each other’s pucks off the long, sandy board, cursing between pulls of beer.

Only a quick drive away from Old Baldy, we tackled the short but vigorous hike up a set of stone stairs to the top of what some refer to as “Lookout Mountain”. We aren’t the most skilled hikers, but we do like a nice view—and sure enough, the added elevation from the top provided a beautiful panorama of the surrounding Hill Country, which was worth being a little winded by the two-hundred-twenty steep steps.

Cypress Falls Swimming Hole in Wimberley.

Still working to squeeze as much natural beauty as possible into our last day, we headed to Canyon Lake . A reservoir of the Guadalupe River constructed by the Army Corps of Engineers in the 1950s to provide flood control and water for communities south of the Canyon Dam, the massive blue body of water looks pretty out of place in the middle of this dry Texas countryside. That doesn’t stop it from being picturesque, lined with its sandy beaches dotted by sunbathing tourists. We walked along the top of the imposing dam, marveling at the blueness of the water and the rolling hills on the opposite shore.

Chicken Fried Steak at Gristmill in Gruene

Just as we felt our skin turning pink, we hopped in the car and started towards the last Hill Country town on our agenda, which made our list primarily for its legendary chicken fried steak and historic dance hall: Gruene . We passed historic buildings and an eclectic stretch of quirky shops overseen by a big old water tower bearing the town’s name. After making a sweep of the shops, we headed to Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar , where we sought the Hill Country delicacy rivaled only by barbecue: chicken fried steak.

Housed in the historic Gruene Cotton Gin with a back deck overlooking the Guadalupe River, the Gristmill building is worth seeing all on its own—but when our cheery waitress brought out the reason we’d come, I could tell from the shatter-crispy coating and thick, creamy and peppery gravy that Gristmill’s chicken fried steak had been worth the wait. We finished every bite, the expertly-breaded-and-fried meat paired dreamily with the homemade-tasting mashed potatoes and gravy.

Gruene Historic Dance Hall

Afterwards, we passed the famous Gruene Hall —the oldest continually-operating dancehall in Texas, which has been hosting honky tonks since 1878, and takes pride in the fact it hasn’t changed a bit. Through the wooden boards of the old hall, country superstar Lyle Lovett’s guitar chords and deep, twangy voice floated out into the Texas night air. Though we hadn’t had the foresight to buy tickets to the sold-out show, just being in close enough proximity to hear him play such an iconic hall was a real thrill. As we drove away from the little town of Gruene that night, Sam played Lyle Lovett’s songs over the car speakers, and one in particular felt like the perfect note on which to end our trip ambling around the Hill Country:

“That’s right, you’re not from Texas

But Texas wants you anyway.”

There is so much to see and do in the sprawling Texas Hill Country, that our experience barely scratches the surface. 

Disclaimer: This trip was hosted in part by Lone Star Court and Visit Fredericksburg , though the opinions of the writer are entirely her own.

Note: Gary Marburger, Sam’s second cousin who owned the peach farm outside of Fredericksburg, sadly passed away a week after our visit. We are so grateful to him and his partner Kaye for their warm hospitality. In his obituary, next to a photo of him smiling wide holding a bowl of peaches and following his extensive local volunteer work, it notes that, “he found himself happiest among dear friends and his peach trees in the Texas Hill Country.”

• Issue Archive
• Find a Copy
• Privacy Policy
• Contact Sales Team
• Country Roads Offerings
• CR Auto Pay Signup Form
• Send Us Your Event
• Baton Rouge Events
• New Orleans Events
• Acadiana Events

Keep in Touch

• Print Subscription
• Digital Archive

Current Issue

© 2021 COUNTRY ROADS MAGAZINE

2023 Country Roads Magazine

• Texas Hill Country News
• Spirits & Libations
• Places to Eat
• Hill Country Happenings
• Places to Stay
• Things To Do
• Online Magazine
• Caussey’s Corner
• Our Writers
• Real Estate

Things to Do

Texas railroad lovers’ road trip through the hill country.

If you love locomotives, can’t get enough cabooses, and rave for railroads , you need to take this trip through the Texas Hill Country. From train rides to spooky, abandoned tunnels, you can experience railroads in the Texas Hill Country in a new way. Don’t miss this Texas railroad lover’s road trip through the Hill Country.

Hill Country Flyer Train

Photo: Facebook/Austin Steam Train

Ride the rails on a restored diesel train with the Austin Steam Train Association . Train rides occur regularly on weekends, though tickets tend to sell out quickly. If you don’t know which ride to take, opt for the six-hour Hill Country Flyer. It takes two hours each way with a two-hour lunch break between. This ride gives you the chance to travel as people once did in the 1950s or 1960s. Don’t miss this opportunity to take a ride into history.

Old Tunnel State Park

Photo: Facebook/Old Tunnel State Park – Texas Parks and Wildlife

Visiting Old Tunnel State Park gives you a rare chance to see a Texas railroad tunnel. Due to the gently sloping landscape of the Hill Country, train tunnels are not very common. The train that ran to Fredericksburg once ran through this tunnel, but over time, many rail lines were decommissioned, including this one. Today, millions of bats make their homes in this tunnel from May through October. Try to visit when you can watch a bat flight . Seeing millions of creatures flying out of the tunnel at sunset will be a memory you will cherish for life whether you include yourself among railroad buffs or not.

Texas Transportation Museum

Photo: Facebook/Texas Transportation Museum

Explore a variety of types of transportation people have used through history, including trains at the Texas Transportation Museum in San Antonio. Your $10 admission gets you into the museum and it gets you a train ride around the property. Visit here if you have young budding railroad buffs because this museum has exhibits for the entire family.

New Braunfels Railroad Museum

Photo: Facebook/New Braunfels Railroad Museum

The New Braunfels Railroad Museum lets you get up close to both miniature trains and full-sized cars. Historic models give you a glimpse into the past, but you can also see current trains. Due to the museum’s location on active Texas railroad tracks, you will likely see modern trains pass by. Don’t miss this chance to juxtapose the past and present of train travel in Texas. And one of the best parts of a visit to this museum is the free admission.

The Antlers Inn

Photo: Facebook/The Antlers

Have you ever had a hankering to catnap in a caboose? In 1901 The Antlers Inn in Kingsland started life as a hotel for riders along the Austin and Northwestern Railroad from Burnet to Llano. But 21 years later, a fire destroyed the train depot, taking the Antlers Inn’s business. The following year, a private owner purchased the hotel and lived in it with his family for the next 70 years. In 1993, the family sold the hotel to its current owners who restored it to its original use and brought cabooses as additional sleeping quarters. These train cars sleep entire families in comfort and give you a great chance to have your own retreat next to Lake LBJ. A stay at the Antlers Inn is the perfect way to cap off a road trip through Texas railroad history in the Hill Country.

We are your resource for Hill Country travel, things to do, places to eat, places to stay, tourism, events, lodging, and we feature Texas Hill Country info of all manners. Our Texas Hill Country Facebook page is growing by over 1,000 fans per day! We also run the premiere real-estate site in the hill country at HillCountryRealestate.com . We are born and bred in The Hill Country, and we welcome you to our family. Join the discussion on our new social platform Texjas.com !

Latest News

Do you know the meaning of gtt left on abandoned homes, ride the fastest ziplines in all of texas, from texas to the tetons: tony maples, dr pepper jalapeno beef jerky is the most texan recipe there is, do you know what was named the official dog breed of texas, lubbock book festival: free, two-day event on the south plains.

Get tips to file federal and state tax returns, boost tax refunds, avoid IRS penalties and more.

Popular Searches

AARP daily Crossword Puzzle

Hotels with AARP discounts

Life Insurance

AARP Dental Insurance Plans

Suggested Links

AARP MEMBERSHIP — $12 FOR YOUR FIRST YEAR WHEN YOU SIGN UP FOR AUTOMATIC RENEWAL

Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.

• right_container

Work & Jobs

Social Security

AARP en Español

• Membership & Benefits
• AARP Rewards
• AARP Rewards %{points}%

Conditions & Treatments

Drugs & Supplements

Health Care & Coverage

Health Benefits

Staying Fit

Your Personalized Guide to Fitness

AARP Hearing Center

Ways To Improve Your Hearing

Brain Health Resources

Tools and Explainers on Brain Health

How to Save Your Own Life

Scams & Fraud

Personal Finance

Money Benefits

View and Report Scams in Your Area

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

Free Tax Preparation Assistance

AARP Money Map

Get Your Finances Back on Track

Budget & Savings

Make Your Appliances Last Longer

Small Business

Age Discrimination

Flexible Work

Freelance Jobs You Can Do From Home

AARP Skills Builder

Online Courses to Boost Your Career

31 Great Ways to Boost Your Career

ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Tips to Enhance Your Job Search

Get More out of Your Benefits

When to Start Taking Social Security

10 Top Social Security FAQs

Social Security Benefits Calculator

Medicare Made Easy

Original vs. Medicare Advantage

Enrollment Guide

Step-by-Step Tool for First-Timers

Prescription Drugs

9 Biggest Changes Under New Rx Law

Medicare FAQs

Quick Answers to Your Top Questions

Care at Home

Financial & Legal

Life Balance

LONG-TERM CARE

​Understanding Basics of LTC Insurance​

State Guides

Assistance and Services in Your Area

Prepare to Care Guides

How to Develop a Caregiving Plan

End of Life

How to Cope With Grief, Loss

Recently Played

Word & Trivia

Atari® & Retro

Members Only

Staying Sharp

Mobile Apps

More About Games

Right Again! Trivia

Right Again! Trivia – Sports

Atari® Video Games

Throwback Thursday Crossword

Travel Tips

Vacation Ideas

Destinations

Travel Benefits

Beach vacation ideas

Vacations for Sun and Fun

Plan Ahead for Tourist Taxes

AARP City Guide

Discover Seattle

How to Pick the Right Cruise for You

Entertainment & Style

Family & Relationships

Personal Tech

Home & Living

Celebrities

Beauty & Style

TV for Grownups

Best Reality TV Shows for Grownups

Robert De Niro Reflects on His Life

Free Online Novel

Read 'Chase'

Sex & Dating

Spice Up Your Love Life

Navigate All Kinds of Connections

How to Create a Home Gym

Store Medical Records on Your Phone?

Maximize the Life of Your Phone Battery

Virtual Community Center

Join Free Tech Help Events

Create a Hygge Haven

Soups to Comfort Your Soul

AARP Smart Guide

Spring Clean All of Your Spaces

Driver Safety

Maintenance & Safety

Trends & Technology

How to Keep Your Car Running

We Need To Talk

Assess Your Loved One's Driving Skills

AARP Smart Driver Course

Building Resilience in Difficult Times

Tips for Finding Your Calm

Weight Loss After 50 Challenge

Cautionary Tales of Today's Biggest Scams

7 Top Podcasts for Armchair Travelers

Jean Chatzky: ‘Closing the Savings Gap’

Quick Digest of Today's Top News

AARP Top Tips for Navigating Life

Get Moving With Our Workout Series

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Go to Series Main Page

Take a 5-Day Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

You'll enjoy wine, charming small towns and urban fun on this route from austin to san antonio.

Becca Hensley,

This scenic road trip takes you through Central Texas’ acclaimed Hill Country , a fantastic region for wines. Beginning in music-centric Austin and ending in San Antonio, the tour leads you on a slow, hilly ramble through small towns with rejuvenated Main streets and past vineyards, farms, peach and apple orchards, and lavender fields.

Day 1: Austin

Bustling Austin, the state capital, revels in its slightly eccentric, music-obsessed reputation. Spend your day and evening in South Austin, an attraction-filled area just south of downtown that some consider a microcosm of the city’s spirit. 

AARP Membership — $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal

A few options for the day: Take a stroll or ride along the 10-mile Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake. (You can rent a set of wheels at Barton Springs Bike Rental & Tours.) Afterward, if you've packed a swimsuit, take a dip in nearby  Barton Springs , a quarter-mile-long swimming hole beloved by locals with a temperature between 68 and 70 degrees.

Also consider exploring SoCo (South Congress), an eclectic entertainment district about 2 miles east of Barton Springs. There, eccentric shops sell everything from funky artifacts to handmade cowboy boots, and you'll find lots of spots for tacos and other quick bites. Grab a hot one at Jo’s Coffee.

For hearty meals, there are many great restaurants in the SoCo area. For lunch or dinner, try Loro Austin, a local hot spot near SoCo where two James Beard Award winners fuse barbecue and Asian cuisines with tasty results. On a nice night, grab an al fresco table at Perla’s in the heart of the district for fun people-watching and a delicious seafood meal. The wood-grilled Creole oysters are as good as the name sounds. 

For your evening entertainment, take your seat in a SoCo mainstay: the Continental Club, the legendary live-music venue that hosts performances on its famous stage daily.

Or have a cocktail in the Rainey Street entertainment district, an enclave of 19th-century bungalow houses turned clever bars on the southern edge of downtown, less than 2 miles from SoCo’s main buzz. Try Icenhauer’s, housed in a well-preserved circa-1895 home.

Where to stay:  A former union hall near Barton Springs, the 93-room Carpenter Hotel appeals with a minimalistic, mid-century chic feel.

Day 2: Austin to Johnson City/Hye (92 miles)

Prepare for a day of wine tasting with a hearty breakfast at Forthright, a cozy café in downtown Austin. A favorite: the thickly cut avocado toast.

ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT

Depart Austin on Highway 290 West, then watch the Hill Country terrain appear almost instantly as you make your way about 40 miles down the road to Dripping Springs. There, in a revamped historic district, you’ll find breweries, distilleries, shops and even a wedding venue. Get a boost with a hot house-roasted brew at Mazama Coffee Co. & Roastery. 

Hop back on 290 (and Ranch Road 3232) for 19 miles, taking a short detour to Pedernales Falls State Park. At this leafy haven, stretch your legs on the half-mile Twin Falls Nature Trail, where two waterfalls cascade down about 30 feet into a natural spring pool.

AARP® Dental Insurance Plan administered by Delta Dental Insurance Company

Dental insurance plans for members and their families

Continue about 23 miles on 290 to the tiny town of Hye (population 238), favored by oenophiles and spitting distance from the birthplace of President Lyndon Baines Johnson. Grab a pecan salad or BLT sandwich at the Hye Market, adjacent to the Hye Post Office, where LBJ purportedly mailed his first letter at age 4.

Just a short drive away is Ron Yates Wines, located right off the highway. Drop in and enjoy a glass of cabernet sauvignon or tempranillo on the patio, surrounded by verdant grounds. Another option for wine lovers: Drive 10 more miles along 290 to Johnson City, where you can tipple in a treehouse at Sandy Roads Vineyard while you learn about unusual grapes, such as mencia and prieto picudo. If you’re hungry, munch on luscious cheese and charcuterie.

Where to stay:  The Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa sits between Johnson City and Hye. Besides 78 ranch house-style villas, the property boasts its own tasting room, a brewery/restaurant and a spa.

Day 3: Hye/Johnson City to Fredericksburg (30-plus miles)

Today, savor more wine en route to the Hill Country’s most emblematic town, Fredericksburg, founded by 19th-century German settlers. As most wineries lie in the countryside, you’ll be backpedaling to the main road after stops.

Among the best is family-owned Pedernales Cellar. From Carter Creek, travel west on 290 for 11 miles, then 2 miles south on Ranch Road 1623 to reach the pastoral estate. Here, you can sample ethereal viognier and heady tempranillo wines while taking in striking views. 

If you continue west for about 7 miles on 290, you’ll hit Becker Vineyards, the unofficial regal prince of this wine region. In a replica 19th-century stone barn, you can sip wines so exceptional that they’ve been served at the White House. 

Three more scenic miles down 290 takes you to the Texas Wine Collective, serving wines from three local wineries: Brennan Vineyards, Lost Oak Winery and McPherson Cellars.

Drive along 290 for another 10 miles to reach Fredericksburg, a lively town where German restaurants, festivals and shops share space with vestiges of the frontier (cabins and cows) and contemporary shops and galleries. Celebrate the town’s roots with Wiener schnitzel at the family-owned Old German Bakery & Restaurant.

Stroll and relax in town, check into your cabin or cottage at Cotton Gin Village, and later dine at Cotton Gin’s Cabernet Grill for a contemporary riff on Texas-style cuisine. Try the Texas Twinkies: jalapenos stuffed with beer sausage and cheese.  

Not ready for bed yet? Head to Lost Draw Cellars for live music and more spectacular wines.

Where to stay:  At Cotton Gin Village, you can choose from 14 cabins and cottages teeming with old-time charm. Come morning, breakfast is delivered right to your door.

Day 4: Fredericksburg to San Antonio (89 miles)

Linger in your cabin or cottage over breakfast in bed, then hit the road. Pecans, pumpkins, lavender, peaches, berries and apples all grow abundantly in the Hill Country, depending on the season. Many farms offer pick-your-own programs, an entertaining (and delicious) way to immerse in the terrain. A good choice on 290: Jenschke Orchards, a storybook family-run farm about 8 miles southeast of Fredericksburg that grows a variety of crops.

If you take U.S. Highway 87 south for 29 miles you’ll find Comfort, a quaint, revitalized Texas town that’s home to Bending Branch Winery — worth a stop, if it’s late enough in the day for a delicious glass of red wine.

Continue 16 miles southeast to Boerne, another German-intoned town with a vibrant Main Street. Here, go on a shopping spree that must include homemade pickles from Fickle Pickles, which also sells beautiful antiques. Next, for a change of pace, venture 6 miles south on County Road 290 to  Cascade Caverns , where you can honor your inner spelunker with an hour-long guided cave tour through five jaw-dropping natural rooms full of rock formations. Picnic (open those pickles) beside one of the on-site nature trails.

Drive 30 miles south on Interstate 10 to  San Antonio , and check into your hotel (see below). If you’re planning a visit to the Alamo while in town, you’ll want to buy tickets in advance online. Later, dine at La Fonda on Main, a local favorite for Mexican food since 1932. Two menu standouts: oak-grilled fajitas and verdes enchiladas.    

Where to stay:  Bunk at the 316-room Menger Hotel, adjacent to the Alamo and home to Menger Bar, where Teddy Roosevelt gathered with the Rough Riders in 1898.

Day 5: San Antonio

Start the morning at the Pearl, an entertainment district within the bones of a sprawling 19th-century brewery complex. Located on the San Antonio River about 2 miles north of downtown,  the district  draws both locals and visitors with its shops, galleries, restaurants, boutique hotel and outdoor green spaces. If possible, schedule your visit for the weekend to coincide with a humming farmers market packed with vendors of every stripe. (On Saturday’s, you'll find food purveyors, and Sunday’s market is focused on crafts.) Whatever the day, eat breakfast at Bakery Lorraine, where French-trained bakers serve up fantastic macarons, almond croissants and croque madames (the French version of a ham-and-cheese sandwich, topped with a fried egg).

Four miles north, you’ll find the  McNay Art Museum , set in a stately Italianate villa built by prescient art collector Marion Koogler McNay to hold her cache of 19th-century artwork. The first modern art museum in Texas is home to masterworks by the likes of Paul Cézanne, Georgia O’Keeffe, Pablo Picasso and Diego Rivera.

Austin-based travel writer Becca Hensley contributes to the  New York Post, Travel + Leisure, Elite Traveler  and other publications and websites .

Austin-based travel writer Becca Hensley contributes to the New York Post, Travel + Leisure, Elite Traveler  and other publications and websites.

MORE FROM AARP

A Spectacular Road Trip Along Oregon's Rugged Coast

Exploring Tennessee Back Roads from Knoxville to Chattanooga

Mountain Adventures Fueled by Great Food

Or Call: 1-800-675-4318

Enter a valid from location

Enter a valid to location

Enter a valid departing date

Enter a valid returning date

Age of children:

Child under 2 must either sit in laps or in seats:

+ Add Another Flight

Enter a valid destination location

Enter a valid checking in date

Enter a valid checking out date

Occupants of Room

Occupants of Room 1:

Occupants of Room 2:

Occupants of Room 3:

Occupants of Room 4:

Occupants of Room 5:

Occupants of Room 6:

Occupants of Room 7:

Occupants of Room 8:

Enter a valid date

You didn't specify child's age

There are children in room 1 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age for room 1

There are children in room 2 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 2

There are children in room 3 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 3

There are children in room 4 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 4

There are children in room 5 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 5

You have more than 6 people total

Please select a trip duration less than 28 days

There must be at least 1 traveler (age 12+) for each infant in a lap

Enter a valid From location

Enter a valid start date

Enter a valid drop location

Enter a valid drop off date

Select a valid to location

Select a month

Enter a valid going to location

Enter a valid from date

Enter a valid to date

AARP VALUE &

MEMBER BENEFITS

Denny's

15% off dine-in and pickup orders

AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia: Vacation Packages

$50 gift card of your choice when booking any flight package

$20 off a Walmart+ annual membership

AARP® Staying Sharp®

Activities, recipes, challenges and more with full access to AARP Staying Sharp®

SAVE MONEY WITH THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS

This is the Ultimate Texas Hill Country Roadtrip for Families

Texas hill country – not just for wine lovers.

The Texas Hill Country is well-loved for its beauty, accessibility, and reputation for fun. If you like to take trips in Texas it is definitely a can’t-miss! But, a lot of the time it gets a bad rap for being an adult-only weekend type of place. Girls weekend? Head to Fredricksburg. Tubing? Pick a crystal clear river. Fortunately, the Hill Country is so much more and your kids will love it!

How we designed this Road Trip

Texas is big. Even our regions are big. The Hill Country is a geographic area that is fairly central. If you start in Fredericksburg and go out 50-80 miles in each direction you will be in the Hill Country.

To give you some scale the Texas Hill Country is about the size of Connecticut, Rhode Island, and half of Massachusetts. Another way to put it is that this one Texas region is similar in size to the countries of Belize, the Netherlands, and Israel (and, believe me, you want more than a few days in these countries!).

As such, you will not see it all in one trip. And, do you really want to?! You will want a reason to come back. I promise!

And, comeback we shall! This itinerary was constructed during our statewide quarantine orders and COVID-19 outbreak. As such, we had to be very flexible. Many things were simply not available. Many had entry requirements that were adjusted and updated weekly. You can see on our map below several locations with grey pins. These are suggestions for future trips or maybe they will work into your family’s outing!

5-Day Itinerary, Texas Hill Country with Kids from Houston

Houston to Cedar Creek

Cedar Creek

Austin to Johnson City

Johnson City, Burnet, Blanco

Fredericksburg to Luckenbach

Fredericksburg to Houston (by way of New Braunfels or San Antonio)

Day 1: Houston to Cedar Creek

(Drive time: about 2 hours)

Cedar Creek is tucked cozily between Bastrop and Austin. Why should you stop there? Because it has several family friendly destinations all packed into a little speck of Texas.

First stop – lunch at The Texas Road Stand . If you head out early on a Wednesday through Saturday try to swing by this local scratch kitchen for lunch. Be sure to call ahead if you are going to get there later in the day as sometimes they have to close early because they sell out! It is definitely a blink and miss it kind of place – but don’t! They have a myriad of burgers, Roadstand pickles, cheesesteak, onion rings, French fries and everything you could want to eat at a picnic table on the side of Texas highway.

From there it is less than five miles to Capital of Texas Zoo . This zoo is not the neat polished big city zoo you may be used to. It is a privately owned labor of love. You will likely be checked in by the owner and founder, Michael Hicks. The zoo is well maintained and there is evidence of continual improvements everywhere. That being said it may be problematic for those with mobility issues. A stroller will be fine but uneven ground is common.

The zoo offers a lot of encounter opportunities but nothing alarming like cub petting . You can, however, swim with otters or feed Tank the Hippo! And, expect to see the free roaming peacocks calling to one another and prairie dogs running rampant.

After wandering around the zoo for a few hours you will likely be ready for some down time. This is the perfect time to check into the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa . This hotel is definitely a splurge but one worth making!

Day 2: Cedar Creek

(Drive time: less than 15 minutes)

A couple of days at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort is the consummate way to begin your Texas Hill Country adventure. First, you do not have to go anywhere. You can but just being on the property is a fantastic way to spend the day.

The resort has an amazing pool (complete with sand beach, lazy river, slides, and tacos!), bikes to check out and ride all around the property, animal mascots, games and playgrounds, as well as seasonal family programming, and nightly s’mores.

If that does not keep you busy enough, it is adjacent to McKinney Roughs Nature Park for a nice morning or evening hike. To get a better view head to the park and then go up on an adventure with Zip Lost Pines . For younger people (or those who would like to keep two feet on the ground), The Dinosaur Park , is directly across the street – it is shady, has a playground, and, naturally, life-size dinosaurs.

Day 3: Austin to Johnson City

(Drive time: about 4 hours, divided)

Our perfect Texas Hill Country itinerary with kids does not spend a lot of time in Austin. We do not ignore it, but Austin can easily be its own destination. Plus, if you are here for the family, for food and hotels, Austin is pricey and the traffic is horrendous. Rather, we use Austin as a layover.

In particular, if you are traveling with younger kids after an hour and half you are ready to get out of the car. And, that is about how long it will take you to get from the Hyatt Lost Pines to Kerbey Lane !

There are a few things you need to do if you are heading to Austin – especially if you have never gone before! Eat breakfast at Kerbey Lane and eat ice cream at Amy’s (there are several locations for each depending on where your day takes you, you will be sure to find one nearby!).

First, stop pancakes! Kerbey Lane is famous for their gigantic pancakes. They have classic options but also rotate through some amazing seasonal and monthly specialties like blueberry cornbread or s’more pancakes. Additionally, there is a robust menu of non-pancake items that are equally delicious!

After breakfast swing by the Cathedral of Junk. Swing is the casual way and you may not see much beyond the tower because it is in a neighborhood in the creator, Vince Hannemann’s backyard. If you want to actually get back there and see it give him a call 512-299-7413. However, it is quirky and weird – which is why you came to Austin, right?

The next part is very open to what most interests and is appropriate for your family and, due to health restrictions, is open. For us, we headed to the Austin Aquarium. I would recommend it with caveats. The aquarium is much more fun inside than its strip-center façade implies. We had some issues with some employees not being particularly nice so I do not want to ding the entire place based on a couple of ill-behaved college students.

Some great options for your day in Austin are:

Indoor Options

• Austin Aquarium
• Bullock Texas State History Museum
• Texas Capitol

Outdoor Options

• Austin Nature & Science Center
• Barton Springs Pool
• Covert Park at Mount Bonnell
• Lone Star Bat Watching Cruise

On your way out of town you will want to swing by HEB or another grocery store to stock up on some dinner and breakfast supplies. The next two nights you will have a kitchen or kitchenette so you can make breakfasts and lunches, if desired. Now head further west into the Texas Hill Country – next stop: The Exotic Resort Zoo !

Yep, you get to sleep in a zoo!

The Exotic Resort Zoo is just north of Johnson City and should take you about an hour to get to from Austin. They offer tractor rides or drive-through options but you can take the tour tomorrow. Tonight, just check-in and relax.

Your cabin is in the middle of the driving loop (in a fenced-in area). Along with the cabins are a pool & playground for cabin guests, a fishing pond, and a private petting zoo. We recommend making dinner in, visiting the petting zoo, taking the kids swimming, and generally relaxing!

Day 4: Johnson City, Burnet, and Blanco

(Drive time: about 2 1/2 hours, divided)

Every time you drive in and out of the zoo you will be on the drive-through loop (there is a bypass for cabin guests). So, when you check-in, make sure you grab a bag of food so you can feed the animals and give yourself a little extra time for coming and going. Once on the road head north to the Longhorn Cavern State Park .

The tours run regularly and are an enchanting experience. The guides are well-informed and the temperature in the cavern is constant year-round so likely to be a respite from the surface temperatures.

After the caverns head up to Burnet for lunch at Storm’s Drive-In then head back to the south and stop by the Highland Lakes Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force. The hours are limited so even if it is not open you can still see some aircraft and tanks outside.

After taking in the planes head back toward the Exotic Resort Zoo. If you are traveling with younger children this might be a good time to stop by for naps or swimming. If you have older kids or troopers continue into Johnson City to visit the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park .

The LBJ National Historic Park has a few indoor areas but many are closed and much of the facility is outdoors. Here, you will be able to see LBJ’s boyhood home. This makes it a great stop if you happen to be going south a little later in the day and just want to tour the grounds.

After touring the grounds head a few minutes south to Blanco. It is hard to suggest a trip to the Texas Hill Country without finding a way to step into the pristine crystal clear rivers that it is so famous for. Blanco State Park is a perfect stop. The park is small. Really, the only attraction at Blanco SP is the river. Find a shady spot along the bank and climb in for awhile. It is beautiful and refreshing.

The park has restroom facilities. When you get hungry just clean up and head over to Josie’s Kitchen . The restaurant is just outside of the park and the food is perfect for families. There really is something for every age from grilled cheese sandwiches to the G.O.A.T. Burger.

After this fun filled day, head back to your cabin and enjoy the sunset with the deer and camels.

Day 5: Johnson City to Fredericksburg (and Luckenbach!)

(Drive time: about 1 hour and 45 minutes, divided)

Day five of the Texas Hill Country tour has you leaving your cabin and heading toward Fredericksburg. First stop is the Science Mill.

The Science Mill is an hidden gem easily on par with larger city’s science museums. It is naturally more compact but the displays and activities are top notch. Geared toward children, the Science Mill, is enjoyable for all ages. I spent a long time in the hydroponic garden.

Outback, there are several over-sized interactive exhibits and it all backs up to the Longhorns at LBJ National Historic Park. The museum is wonderful, the scenery first rate, and the fun limitless!

When you leave the Science Mill you head west toward Stonewall, but just before you get there stop at the blink-and-you-will-miss-it Hye Market Deli & Eatery for lunch. It will be hard to find bad food choices out near Fredericksburg so you will not be disappointed here.

After you fill up continue down the road about five minutes to the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site & the LBJ Ranch (which is part of the LBJ National Historic Park). Your interest and what is currently open will determine the amount of time you spend here. We took the self-guided driving tour to see the ranch (get a permit at the LBJ State Park Visitor Center – they are free). And, there is an app for this check it out before you start your drive.

After the LBJ Ranch tour it is finally time to head to Fredericksburg! We went to the National Museum of the Pacific War . If this is a bit mature for your crowd some alternate places to consider are the Pioneer Museum, the Texas Rangers Heritage Center, and Fort Martin Scott. Or, it may just be time to check into your hotel for a nap!

There are so many great choices for hotels or AirBNBs in Fredericksburg. We knew this would be a busy day and did not need to be in Fredericksburg for this trip. We were not looking for quaint and full of ambiance, we just needed the basics – a clean place to rest. As such, we saved a little money by staying outside of the main city and stuck with a chain that provides breakfast, the Fairfield Inn and Suites .

After the museum we checked into our hotel and took a little break before dinner. But, dinner was heading down to Luckenbach so we also made sure we had enough time to not feel rushed there.

Luckenbach is only about 15-20 minutes southeast of Fredericksburg so it makes a perfect dinner option when you are heading to a twilight bat chat at the Old Tunnel State Park. It is a quintessential Texas Hill Country experience. Outdoor dining, country music, perfect photo ops, and a gift shop to commemorate your visit! (If someone is house or dog sitting for you it makes a great place to grab a thank you gift!)

After dinner it is time to turn off the paved road! Not really. But things are a little less polished for this part of the drive. You will need to purchase tickets in advance for the bat emergence viewing at Old Tunnel State Park (well in advance if you are visiting on a weekend).

Both viewing areas are great. You will get a different experience from the Lower than the Upper so there is not really a “better” spot. However, the Lower Viewing area ticket also includes an education program about the Mexican free-tailed bat (the ones that will be emerging).

The experience is worth the advance planning and waiting around. They are bats not robots so no one can say exactly when they will emerge. Sometimes they come out early, sometimes they take their time. But once they emerge expect a show. The swooping, the vortex they create so they can get lift, the sound of thousands of bat wings is an experience like none other!

Day 6: Fredericksburg to Houston (by way of New Braunfels or San Antonio)

Finally, it is time for your Texas Hill Country adventure to end and start heading home. Depending on the time of year you could drive straight home. The most direct route will take you about four hours.

Or, you could swing by Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels. This detour only adds twenty minutes to your drive time. The park is open from May through September. If you are up for a longer trip a night here would be amazing! I recommend not telling them about this one – surprises are the best! If you have been to Schlitterbahn Galveston this one definitely worth a stop. It is a completely different experience.

If you are traveling October through April another option would be to spend the day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas . Suprisingly, it only adds ten minutes to your overall drive as you do not actually have to drive into San Antonio to get there.

Texas Hill Country Roadtrip for the Family

We love roadtripping with our kids. Fortunately, they are great travelers – start ’em early! And, we are so blessed to call Texas and all of its wide open spaces home. There are not many places you can drive for ten hours and still be home!

Where are your family-friendly favorites in the Texas Hill Country or anywhere in the state?

Similar Posts

A good place for deep thoughts.

Houston Groups and Field Trip Opportunities

We’ve just added a great page to our directory that covers Houston Groups and Field Trip Opportunities! Sometimes you just have to get a group together!  There are…

Day 11, Thursday, Oct 21: Old Jaffa “The eyes of Texas are upon you.  That is the sound they sing.. well – SOUNDS LIKE HELL!” This is how…

Houston to San Antonio & Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Part Three of our Big Bend with Kids Series delves into the first leg: Houston to San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas!

17 | Wild Romance at the Arboretum

COST $35-$50 TIME 6-8pm LOCATION Houston Arboretum & Nature Center | 4501 Woodway Dr, Houston, TX 77024 More Information Wild Romance DETAILS From the organizer: $35 member /…

Two Boys and a Squirrel

It is the small things that make me note the vast differences between my children.  If I had asked my elder, “What is your squirrel’s name? ” Until…

One Comment

• Pingback: October 2023 | What to Read this Month | Greater Houston Moms

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Lost your password?

Not a member? Click here to join Team Daytripper.

Your Cart Is Currently Empty

The ULTIMATE Bluebonnet Road Trip

By chet | April 1, 2022

It’s the time of year when wildflowers are popping up all over the countryside painting Texas in shades of red, blue, yellow and white. Here at “The Daytripper” we respect the beauty of all wildflowers, but because we’re Texan, we must say the bluebonnet is the best (it is our state wildflower after all). So, to make sure you get your fill of bluebonnet beauty, we’ve planned the Ultimate Bluebonnet Road Trip through the heart of the Hill Country.

Here’s the map…

Next, take Highway 29 west to your second stop –  Llano, TX , the heart of Llano County which is the other “Official Bluebonnet Co-Capital of Texas.” You’ll see more beautiful Hill Country granite and more beautiful shades of blue.

Your third destination is a detour through the Willow City Loop which is a 13-mile scenic drive that will take you through creeks and hills all sprinkled with bluebonnets and wildflowers. The land surrounding the road is private so just enjoy the scenery from your car. To get there from Llano, head south on State Highway 16 and turn left onto the Willow City Loop. Follow this road through twists and turns until you hit Farm Road 1323, then take a right toward Willow City, TX . This road will take you back to State Highway 16.

By this time, you’ll probably be starving for lunch. Just down State Highway 16 is the Knot in the Loop Saloon where you can dine on burgers and sip a cold one while the jukebox plays old tunes.

Finish the trip by traveling up 281 back to  Burnet, TX . And you, my friends, have just taken the ULTIMATE BLUEBONNET ROAD TRIP through the Hill Country.

Keep Exploring

Sports Betting: a Beginner’s Handbook

The Tripper’s Guide to Christmas Shopping!

OKTOBERFEST Fredericksburg Giveaway!

Shop General Store

Shop Apparel

Shop Dry Goods

Shop Episodes

Shop Drinkware

See The Best Of The Texas Hill Country In One Day On This Epic Road Trip

Katie Lawrence

Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015. Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).

More by this Author

Who’s ready for another road trip? It seems like forever since we’ve put one together, but I think we’ve more than made up for it with this one. If you’re looking for a last-minute spring break vacation, look no further – this Hill Country trip can be done in just ONE day!

The entire thing is less than five hours of travel time, so you can still spend an hour or so at each stop. You may need to stay in a hotel the night before and after depending on where you’re coming from, but the trip itself can be completed in a day.

As always, the Google Map with exact directions and addresses can be found here . Safe travels!

Related Stories

Everyone From Texas Should Take This Awesome Mountain Vacation Before They Die

These 9 Beautiful Byways In Texas Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive

Try Out This Mini Texas Roadtrip Where You Can View Spring From Your Car

So, what do y’all think? Ready to hop in the car? I know I am!

For all the foodies out there, here’s another road trip especially for you: The Ultimate Texas BARBECUE Road Trip.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Texas in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Texas!

An error occured.

Related Articles

• The 75-Mile Road Trip Around Davis Mountains Scenic Loop Is A Glorious Spring Adventure In Texas
• The Best Texas Hill Country Road Trip You'll Ever Take
• Hop In Your Car And Take El Camino Del Rio For An Incredible 50-Mile Scenic Drive In Texas
• The 8 Best Backroads In Texas For A Long Scenic Drive
• This Dreamy Road Trip Will Take You To The Best Fall Foliage In All Of Texas
• The Lighthouse Roadtrip On The Texas Coast That's Dreamily Beautiful
• This Speakeasy Hidden In A Former Bookstore In Texas Is Perfect For A Date Night
• 7 Waterfront Retreats In Texas That Are Perfect For Warm Weather Adventures

10 Scenic Texas Road Trips That Should Be On Your Bucket List

• Take a scenic 154-mile drive through rolling hills and pink granite domes in the Texas Hill Country, passing charming towns along the way.
• Travel from Dallas to Galveston for a beachy Gulf Coast road trip, exploring cultural attractions like Buffalo Bayou Park and Moody Mansion.
• Experience the peaceful and scenic 120-mile Bluewater Highway to Galveston, passing coastal bayous and fishing villages along the way.

With its sprawling deserts, hill country, pine forests, and gulf coast beaches, Texas offers some of the most scenic and diverse road trip routes in the South and the entire United States. From panoramic desert vistas to stunning mountain ranges and coastal drives to winding riverside routes, Texas offers ideal road trip terrain. Many wind through national and state parks to protect the state's natural beauty. Others travel back in time along historical routes. Travelers will traverse endless expanses of West Texas, beach towns lining the Gulf Coast, Hill Country vineyards, and more. Here are 10 scenic Texas road trips that should be on your bucket list.

Road Trip From Mineral Wells To Marble Falls

This 154-mile texas hill country drive showcases rolling hills, pink granite domes, and the brazos river.

This scenic 154-mile drive through the scenic Texas Hill Country region showcases rolling green hills, massive pink granite domes, and the clear waters of the Brazos River. Departing the town of Mineral Wells, the route winds through pastoral countryside dotted with livestock, old barns, and charming farmhouses on its way to Granbury on the shores of Lake Granbury. Stop and wander around picturesque Granbury Square, filled with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, before continuing on to the massive granite Pink Dome Wilderness Area. These huge pink granite dome structures rising from the green landscape are a stunning geological sight. Further along, cross the Brazos River en route to Marble Falls, a lively Hill Country town known for wineries, art galleries, festivals, and many charming things visitors can do in springtime .

• Distance : 154 miles
• Time to Drive: 3 hours 32 mins
• Top Attractions: Granbury Square , Lake Marble Falls
• Most Scenic Stops: Pink Dome Wilderness Area

Related: 10 Towns In Texas Hill Country To Add To Your Bucket List

Road Trip From Dallas To Galveston

Embark on a 288-mile gulf coast road trip, with stops at buffalo bayou park and moody mansion.

This easy 4-hour drive departs the big city of Dallas for island time on the Gulf Coast. Travelers can enjoy some of the free things in Dallas before departing, like touring the Dallas Museum Of Art . Follow Interstate 45 South as it crosses through open coastal prairies blanketed in bluebonnets in spring on its way to Galveston. Make a stop in Houston to explore the historic old town area of Buffalo Bayou, which is filled with unique shops, restaurants, and colorful street art. After grabbing a tasty bite, travelers can continue with their trip down the coast to the island city of Galveston.

• Distance: 288 miles
• Time to Drive : 4 hours 39 mins
• Top Attractions: Strand District , Moody Mansion
• Most Scenic Stops: Buffalo Bayou Park , Stewart Beach

Related: Road Trip Texas: What To Know About Driving From Austin To Dallas

Bluewater Highway

The peaceful 120-mile bluewater highway to galveston passes coastal bayous and lagoons along the intracoastal waterway.

The Bluewater Highway travels alongside the Intracoastal Waterway through marshy coastal bayous on its route from Palacios to Galveston. This is a peaceful, scenic detour off the busy highways. Travelers can spot a variety of coastal birds like great blue herons, pelicans, and egrets as they pass small waterfront towns and cross over salty lagoons and coastal lakes. Stop at public fishing piers and scenic pullouts to photograph fishing boats and those graceful birds in their natural habitat. Travelers should make sure to savor fresh gulf seafood straight from the docks in fishing villages and relax at a waterfront inn before ending their trip in beachy Galveston.

• Distance: 120 miles
• Time to Drive: 2 hours 52 mins
• Top Attractions: Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge , Smith Point
• Most Scenic Stops: Big Boggy National Wildlife Refuge

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive

This 30-mile big bend drive offers stunning views of the chisos mountains and santa elena canyon in an underrated national park.

Winding through the spectacular landscapes of Big Bend National Park, America’s most underrated National Park , this desert drive offers stunning views of the Chisos Mountains and Santa Elena Canyon. Travelers can depart the Chisos Basin, surrounded by rocky peaks and home to some of the park's best hiking trails, and watch as the craggy limestone peaks of the Chisos Mountains loom ever larger outside their window. Stop at scenic pullouts like Mule Ear Spring Overlook for panoramic views before reaching Santa Elena Canyon , a towering slit carved through sheer limestone cliffs by the Rio Grande River . At the end of the drive, take a short walk into the canyon along the Santa Elena Canyon Trail to view the massive 1,500-foot tall rock walls up close and see the emerald green Rio Grande passing through.

• Distance: 30 miles
• Time to Drive: 54 mins
• Top Attractions : Santa Elena Canyon , Chisos Mountains
• Most Scenic Stops: Mule Ear Spring Overlook

Big Bend National Park

Epic mountain and canyon scenery await on this massive 300-mile loop through the heart of remote west texas.

Big Bend National Park is seven hours from San Antonio and a six-hour drive from El Paso. Epic mountain and desert scenery await around a 300-mile drive through the heart of Big Bend National Park in far West Texas. Along the route, gaze up in awe at the steep 1,500-foot walls of Santa Elena Canyon and unique volcanic rock balance formations like Elephant Tusk and the Pinnacle. Make sure to stop and hike into oak and juniper-lined canyons like Grapevine Canyon to view its 100-foot waterfall before cooling off with a refreshing dip in the emerald waters of the Rio Grande. As the road winds on through the Chisos Mountains, admire the domed caprock peaks and the jagged reddish cliffs of the Rosillos Mountains. With stunning natural scenery around every corner, from massive canyons to forested high country, this is undoubtedly one of the most scenic drives in all of Texas.

• Distance : 336 miles
• Time to Drive: 6 hours from El Paso , 7 hours from San Antonio
• Top Attractions: Grapevine Canyon , Santa Elena Canyon
• Most Scenic Stops: Sotol Vista Overlook

Related: These Two Towns Are The Closest to Big Bend National Park

Road Trip From Austin To San Antonio

Connect austin and san antonio, two of texas’ most vibrant cities, on this 79-mile drive past the stunning hamilton pool.

Following sections of the historic El Camino Real trail used by Spanish explorers, this easy and scenic 79-mile trip connects two of Texas' most vibrant cities. Depart Austin, the funky and eclectic capital of Texas. Visitors can stop to hike the gorgeous Hamilton Pool Preserve, where they can swim in a pristine natural pool surrounded by limestone cliffs. Other highlights include strolling the charming old town square in New Braunfels and visiting historic German heritage sites like the Graf Haus.

• Distance: 79.30 miles
• Time to Drive : 1 hour 30 mins
• Top Attractions: Hamilton Pool Preserve , San Antonio River Walk
• Most Scenic Stops: Natural Bridge Caverns

Dallas-Fort Worth To Waco

Travel 113 miles from dallas to waco through rolling prairies and charming small towns like waxahachie and west.

Tracing sections of the old Chisholm Trail used by cowboys driving cattle to market, this scenic drive starts in the DFW Metroplex and passes through rolling open prairie, the Victorian architecture of Waxahachie, hills dotted with livestock, wildflowers in spring, and charming small towns. Travelers will meet all those scenic adventures on their way to Waco. Must-see stops include strolling through historic downtown Waxahachie and viewing the Depression-era murals at the Ellis County Courthouse depicting the area's history and heritage. Waco offers several things for travelers to do , including touring Magnolia Market, Chip and Joanna Gaines' home decor shop made famous by Fixer Upper, and learning about Texas history at the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum.

• Distance: 113 miles
• Time to Drive: 1 hour 16 minutes
• Top Attractions: Magnolia Market , Texas Ranger Hall of Fame
• Most Scenic Stops: Chalk Ridge Falls

San Antonio To South Padre Island

Depart historic san antonio for endless beaches and breezy south padre island on this 297-mile coastal road trip.

This scenic coastal road trip departs historic San Antonio, home to San Antonio Missions National Historical Park , for the sunny beaches and tropical breezes of South Padre Island. Stop to explore the seaside village of Rockport, known for its art galleries and fresh seafood. Further south, spend some time in Corpus Christi touring the massive USS Lexington aircraft carrier museum.

• Distance : 297 miles
• Time to Drive : 4 hours 26 mins
• Top Attractions: Padre Island National Seashore , USS Lexington
• Most Scenic Stops : Mustang Island State Park

Related: 10 Things To Buy In San Antonio If You're Visiting For The First Time

Texas Castles Road Trip

Tour texas hill country’s castle attractions like stone castle, hangar hotel, and napa valley resort on this 242-mile fairytale drive.

Travelers can get their cameras ready for this route, traveling through the Texas Hill Country and visiting unique castle attractions and German-influenced towns. Start at Round Top's storybook Stone Castle, which was built purely as an art piece by an eccentric millionaire. Further along, stop in Luckenbach to see its historic old west dance hall before reaching Fredericksburg, which is home to some of the best vineyards . Here, travelers can tour the landmark Hangar Hotel , designed to resemble an old zeppelin hangar. Next up is the Celtic-inspired Driftwood Estate Winery & Vineyards, followed by the Bavarian-styled village of Gruene, settled by German farmers.

• Distance : 242 miles
• Time to Drive: 3 hours 46 mins
• Top Attractions: Gruene Historic District
• Most Scenic Stops: Hangar Hotel Stonehenge

Road Trip From Waco To Longview

This 174-mile trip from waco to longview explores busy interstates for quintessential small-town texas charm and scenery.

Traversing sections of rural Texas countryside characterized by gently rolling hills and open fields, this under-the-radar road trip departs Waco and journeys towards Longview in East Texas pine forest country. Stops include strolling around the charming historic town squares of Athens and Henderson, taking a refreshing dip in Lake Palestine, and touring elegant historic homes and museums highlighting the region's history and cultural heritage. Visitors will also find dinosaur tracks along the way! Explore beyond the busy interstates for a relaxing sampling of quintessential small-town Texas life.

• Distance : 174 miles
• Time to Drive: 3 hours
• Top Attractions: Lake Athens , Lake Palestine
• Most Scenic Stop s: Athens Town Square