highlight: hill country
Austin, TX – West Side
Blanco, TX
Blanco is that little town in the Hill Country that you could drive through in 5 minutes, or spend a week exploring. Those that are in the know travel here to spend a day or longer diving into the history, blue water, and food. To download the episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.
CULTURE
The first thing most notice when they visit Blanco is the Old Blanco County Courthouse which was built in 1886. While it looks very official, it only served as the county courthouse for 4 years, because in 1890 the authorities moved the county seat 14 miles up the road to Johnson City. Today this old building serves as a museum, a gathering place, and a movie set. If you walk upstairs into the courtroom, you can feel the presence of Rooster Cogburn (aka Jeff Bridges) from the 2010 film “True Grit.”
If you love movie history or just history in general, then you’ll want to head to the Blanco Buggy Barn Museum which showcases over 100 different buggies from around the globe. Many of the buggies have been used in films such as “Gone With the Wind,” “There Will Be Blood,” and “Abe Lincoln: Vampire Hunter.” It’s amazing to look at how the technology progressed during the era of horse-drawn transportation. If you arrange it early, the owners will take you on a buggy ride around town.
Blanco’s biggest modern-day contribution to Texas culture is to the growing Texas craft beer scene. If you’re into craft beer, then you’ve heard of Real Ale Brewing, or at least Firemans #4, it’s most popular variety. Many don’t realize that it’s brewed down a dirt road in the heart of Blanco. They offer great tours of their facilities and brewing processes on weekends but even if you don’t take a tour, you can visit their tasting room and sample one (or more) of their dozen or so brews. I highly recommend sampling some of their barrel-aged “Mysterium” series, where they let beer sit in wine and whiskey barrels. It comes out completely different.
If you’re more into Texas wildflowers than Texas beer, then you’ll be happy to know that Blanco is the “Lavender Capital of Texas” and during the summer months, you can visit lavender fields to pick your own puffs of the purple stuff. I highly recommend Hill Country Lavender. Not only do they offer a really great picking experience, but they also sell all of their lavender products on site, so you can stock up on sleep-inducing and bug-repelling lotions, creams, and soaps.
Lastly, there’s a hill country tradition that exists ONLY in a number of small German communities across Texas. It’s 9-pin bowling, and is done in private bowling clubs. It’s different than traditional 10-pin bowling in that the pins are set up in a diamond and bowlers get extra points if they leave the middle one standing. It’s very fun but hard for an outsider to experience. UNLESS – you are in Blanco on a Saturday night, when the Blanco Bowling Club is open to the public. Make sure to call ahead and let them know you are coming, as they’ll need to make sure a pin-setter is on site. This is such a rare game that there are NO machines to do the work, so high schoolers earn extra cash setting up pins after folks knock ’em down.
FOOD
No trip to Blanco would be complete without a trip to the Redbud Cafe on the square. This local favorite mixes fresh sandwiches, baked cookies, and craft beer to become the most charming cafe-bakery-bar combo in Texas. They make perhaps the best reuben sandwich I’ve ever had, and in the winter they make amazing potato chip cookies. Seriously, try them.
If you’re in the mood for Bar-B-Q, then make your way to Old 300 BBQ. This is a very Texas kind of joint smoking up brisket, sausage, ribs, pork loin, and more over live oak wood. You’ll love it. If you’re in town on a Saturday, you can sample their special “Akaushi” beef brisket made from an amazing flavorful and rare bovine breed.
OUTDOORS
The biggest outdoor attraction of Blanco is definitely the Blanco River where folks do everything from swim to paddle to fish, and just generally relax beside the calming blue water. The river flows right through the middle of town where you’ll find Blanco State Park – the best place to jump into the Blanco.
Georgetown, TX
If a place is known for having the “Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas” it’s probably a good idea to start your day trip on the square. Grab a cup of coffee at local shop and roaster Cianfrani Coffee Co and then get to exploring. Check out the old-fashioned and American-made toys at All Things Kids. Strap on some moccasins and buffalo headdress at Tribal Impressions, a southwest apparel and artwork store. Work on your guitar licks at Ken’z Guitars. And learn about the history of Georgetown and Williamson County at the Williamson County Museum and Historic Courthouse.
When you are ready to eat, there are tons of options. Juicy burgers from Burger University. Tasty pizza and sandwiches at Roots Bistro. Seafood at Gumbo’s. Or Thai from Dia Thai Cuisine. And finally, wash it down with a cupcake from Galaxy Bakery. Just blocks away from the square are the legendary Monument Cafe for homecooking and El Monumento for delectable interior Mexican.
For adventure on this trip, there are tons of things to do. Georgetown has the legendary Blue Hole where you can take a dip in the San Gabriel River. You can rock climb behind St. David’s Hospital. You can go deep into the earth at Inner Space Caverns. Or, with a group of about 10, you can do the most challenging thing in town by team building and flying high at the Georgetown Challenge Course.
Kingsland, TX
Imagine a place flowing with pristine rivers and lakes, a place with vineyards as far as the eye can see, and home-cooked food so delicious you’ll feel like you’re eating a royal feast. That is a land fit for a king, which is exactly why they call it KINGSLAND. The true beauty of this Kings…land doesn’t lie in the city, but in its surroundings which contains tons of things to do. Kingsland sits along the Colorado River and the beautiful Lake LBJ. It also straddles the border between Burnet and Llano counties. Both Lake LBJ and the nearby Inks Lake are constant level lakes, meaning the lakes stay full year round when other Texas lakes dip due to droughts. To experience Lake LBJ, start at the Lake LBJ Yacht Club and Marina. Don’t worry, this isn’t a snooty yacht club, but a down-home, hill country place to rent a boat or play at the Granite Beach Waterpark full of inflatable water toys. The waterpark is open weekends Memorial to Labor Day. If you are looking for history, check out Kingsland’s Antler’s Inn, built in 1901 as a resort and refuge for railroad workers and travelers. Also on property is the actual house from the filming of the 1974 classic Texas Chainsaw Massacre. The house has received a new coat of paint and doesn’t look as terrifying as it once did, but if you cock your head just right, you can almost hear the grind of a distant chainsaw. Today the home serves up delicious cuisine as the Grand Central Cafe. And the steaks are way better than the ones Leatherface whipped up. If you are looking for grub, head for a delicious burger or chicken fried steak at the local Hoover’s Valley Cafe, one of the few remaining relics of a long-forgotten town. And if you want a view to go with that food, head to On The Rocks, a delicious homemade Italian joint perched atop a tall cliff and overlooking Lake LBJ. Finally, if you are looking to truly feel like a king, head to one of the area’s wineries. I highly, highly recommend visiting the Martin family of Perissos Vineyards. Beyond being incredibly nice, they are making some of the finest wines in Texas. Visit in July and August and you can even help them harvest and stomp the produce!
Canyon Lake, TX
This reservoir along the Guadalupe River is a great place for swimmin, eatin, and explorin. Check it out.If the first thing on your list is taking a dip, then Canyon Lake has what you need. If you can navigate some steep steps, head to Overlook Park. But if youve got small ones that want to play on a flat, rocky beach, then Comal Park has your name on it.
If you are part explorer, part science nerd, and part history buff, then you need to check out the Canyon Lake Gorge. For some grub, head to Franks Bait & Tacos.
Wimberley, TX
This town calls itself A Little Bit of Heaven. And the funny thing is they may be right. Wimberley is an artists haven in the truest sense. It must be the rolling hills that inspire the inner soul, but whatever it is, youll want to check it out.
CULTURE
Local artisans peddle their craft all around the Wimberley Town Square. Outside of town, you can visit the very prominent artists behind Wimberley Glassworks. Not only can you peruse a gallery of breathtaking glass artworks like light fixtures and vases, but you can also watch glassblowing demonstrations to see how the pros do it.
If you are there during the summer time, theres nothing better than capping off your day with a movie under the stars at the Corral Theater which shows current movies in an old horse corral. You can sit in the chairs at the theater or bring your own, either way, you’re bound to have the best seat in Texas as you enjoy the movie and the beautiful night sky at the same time.
There’s nothing better than cruising with the top down…well except cruising down one of the most scenic drives in Texas, the Devil’s Backbone on Highway 32. The route gets its name from the rolling hills and vertebrae-like rock outcroppings, but there’s really nothing devilish about it — it’s a heavenly view!
OUTDOORS
Wimberley boasts some of the most beautiful nature in the Hill Country. The best way to see a panoramic view of it all is at the top of Prayer Mountain (aka “Mount Baldy”). And if you’re not much of a mountain climber, don’t worry — it’s actually a mound with 218 stairs leading up the mountain to the “bald” rocky top where you can see the hilly Texas landscape for miles and miles.
To take in the work of the great Artist who created everything, take a dip in Blue Hole, one of Texass finest swimming holes. Just one look at the water and you’ll know why it’s called “Blue Hole.” And there’s even a rope swing so you can spend the afternoon just hanging around… (sorry, I had to!)
FOOD
All this art will leave you starving, so I highly recommend fixing that at Brewsters Pizza (also home of the Wimberley Brewing Company) which is run by the Collie family from top to bottom. What could be better than washing down a delicious slice of hand-tossed pizza with a ice cold pint of handcrafted beer? NOTHING!
You might also want to check out the INOZ Brew and Chew to enjoy burgers outside by the creek or the Wimberley Pie Co. for some of the best pies in town. I suggest the Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie — it’s out of this world! You can find both restaurants in the town square area.
Unfortunately, the Gourmet Tamale Kitchen featured in the episode has closed its doors.
Lockhart, TX
Lockhart is the officially the Barbecue Capital of Texas. Need we say more?There is a challenge in Texas that few brave souls attempt, but for those willing to accept this meaty mission, it carries BBQ street credibility unlike anything else. It is the Lockhart BB-Q challenge. The rules are simple Eat at all 4 BBQ joints in Lockhart in one day. Good luck and bring your antacid.
The 4 joints (in alphabetical order) are Blacks Barbecue, Chisholm Trail BBQ, Kreuz Market, and Smittys Market. Each is unique in its own smoky way. I recommend them all.
If you need a break between BBQ binges, check out Lockhart State Park and enjoy its 9-hole golf course or take a hike along Clear Fork Creek. For history buffs that want to stay in the middle of town, tour the historic Caldwell County Courthouse or the Caldwell County Museum sitting inside of the old jail.
Spicewood, TX
Spicewood is a Texas town nestled along Lake Travis and the home of Country Music Legend Willie Nelson. Need I say more
You will undoubtedly want to kickstart your day with a cup of coffee from Cuvee Coffee, one of the most respected specialty roasters in America that is hidden behind a metal gate marked inconspicuously with a C. If you find it, then you can join them for a cupping and get a tour from the guys roasting the beans. If you like wine more than coffee, then head to Spicewood Vineyards for a tour and tasting. Unfortunately Willies Luck, Texas ranch isnt open to the public, just you can still crank up the tunes as you cruise around town.
To indulge in the adventurous side of Spicewood, cruise through the air on a Zipline tour at Cypress Valley Canopy Tours or hit the trails at Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area on the banks of Lake Travis. If the weather is right, take a dip in Krause Springs, a hidden-oasis swimming hole complete with rope swing, sunbathing rocks, waterfalls, and a hidden grotto.
After a day like this, you will be starving. So indulge in the spicy BBQ (or any BBQ) from Opies Barbecue. The sweet and spicy ribs are killer, as is the brisket, sausage, chicken, banana pudding, spicy creamed corn you get the picture .everything. To cap off your day with some live music, or to eat one of the best burgers in Texas, head to Poodies Hilltop Roadhouse. Poodie was Willie Nelsons longtime stage manager and, before passing, was the proprietor behind one of the best burgers in Texas. Enjoy a burger, a cold one, and an incredible view at Poodies.
Fredericksburg, TX
Ah Bavaria! Its beautiful, its German, and its about 5,000 miles away. Lucky for us, settlers brought Germany to Texas and named it Fredericksburg.
Fredericksburg, TX is a culture clash between boots and lederhosen. It isnt uncommon to see trailers full of cows traveling through downtown and being hauled by German-speaking man wearing a cowboy hat. Seriously! Go see for yourself.
Downtown Fredericksburg is a collection of shops offering just about everything you can imagine. From lady-friendly candles (Circle E Candles) and home accessories, to man-friendly beer and brats (Fredericksburg Brewing Company) and brats. If you are looking for the full German food experience, look no further than The Auslander, an authentic German restaurant in the heart of town.
One thing you cant miss when visiting is the National Museum of the Pacific War. Believe it or not, the national museum commemorating the Pacific combat of WWII is in Fredericksburg. The museum has complete war machines, like a B-12 bomber, tanks, and a Japanese pygmy submarines.
For outdoor-minded folks, head north of town to Enchanted Rock, a stunning pink granite dome rising out of the Texas hill country.
Llano, TX
Llano is the little hill country town that rocks literally. Check it out!
This charming little Texas town sits on the Llano River. Its the the county seat of Llano County. And sits atop the Llano Uplift. See a theme here?
The Llano Uplift is a peculiar rock formation created when granite pushed its way to the surface exposing rocks all around Llano. The most impressive example is Enchanted Rock in South Llano County. The uplift also kicked up tons of rare earth minerals that are scattered all over the county. There is even a type of granite called Llanite that can only be found in Llano County. To learn more about Llanos rock culture and be pointed in the right direction for your own rock hunt, check out Enchanted Rocks and Jewelry on Llanos square.
For the historic side of Llano, drive across Roy Inks Bridge and take a tour of the old Red Top Jail, built in 1895 with its original hanging gallows still inside. Also check out the Dabs Hotel (a stop for Bonnie & Clyde), the Llano Courthouse, the Historic Railyard District, and the LanTex Theater, a classic theater still showing current movies. For something creepy, you can always head to Baby Head Cemetery up Highway 16 from Llano.
All this touring will surely stir up an appetite. For what many consider the best BB-Q in Texas, head to Coopers Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que and choose your meat straight from the outdoor pit. Dont miss the house pecan cobbler. Another great BBQ spot is Inmans Kitchen serving its famous and one-of-a-kind turkey sausage. For lighter fare and a cup of joe, head to Fuel Coffee House, a nonprofit coffeehouse that also serves up free burgers on Sunday evenings.
If you are around town in the winter, you might also get a chance to see wild Bald Eagles that migrate to Llano in the winter to build nests and have babies. For the past couple years, the nest has been just off Highway 29 between Burnet and Llano. Look for the TXDOT pull-off.
You can read my column about Llano from Texas Highways HERE.
For information about Lake Buchanan visit our Burnet, TX page CLICK HERE.
Burnet, TX
Burnet is a town that sits within spitting distance to two perfect hill country lakes. Need we say more
Thats right, Inks Lake and Lake Buchanan are two great reasons to make a trip to Burnet. But they arent the only reasons. While in Burnet, check out Fort Croghan for some frontier history and the Highland Lakes Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force for some aviation history and to hop aboard their beautifully restored antique planes. If you are looking for a bite to eat, I highly recommend picking up some homemade Tex-Mex and a backrub from The Maxican or BB-Q at Burnet Feed Store BBQ located inside an old feed store. (Unfortunately, Bertram BB-Q featured in the episode closed its doors.)
Now for the lakes! To explore Inks Lake, head to Inks Lake State Park with miles of hiking trails and plenty of ways to get in the water. If you are feeling risky, I recommend cliff jumping in at the Devils Waterhole. But if you are more vampire than swimmer, then go underground at Longhorn Cavern State Park to caves that have been everything from a tribal council room to a 1920’s speakeasy.
To see Lake Buchanan, hop aboard a Vanishing Texas River Cruise taking visitors upstream to experience the wild side of Texas. In the winter you might even get the chance to spot bald eagles that spend the winter around the lake. But whether you see eagles or not, you can see the beautiful 25 foot Fall Creek waterfalls, a stunning and unexpected surprise in the Texas Hill Country. To ride through the falls or just around the lake, rent a kayak or canoe from Buchanan Adventure Tours based out of the LCRAs beautiful Canyon of the Eagles nature park. Which is an excellent place to stop and have dinner over the lake or spend the weekend.
