Day Trips in the Texas Hill Country: Small Town Shopping & Things to Do

There is so much to do and see in the Hill Country. Antique shops, weekend craft fairs, historical sites, music festivals, wine tastings, peach and apple festivals, and wildflower drives. Here are just some of the suggested day trips in my area. All of these are close enough to drive to, spend the day and return to your resting place.

Austin

 

Blanco

  • The Bean and Biscuit. Located at the Blanco Settlement.
  • Blanco Market Days. Open air market on the grounds of the historical Blanco County Courthouse. Booths with an assortment of goods and crafts from local artisans. Local lavender farms are sometimes set up.
  • Brieger Pottery. Run by local potters, they feature the works of local Hill Country artists.  A selection of gifts, local and imported gift items.
  • Real Ale Brewing Co. Our local and quite famous brewery. For tours and tastings, check for current schedule
  • Blanco State Park. Off US 281, just south of downtown on the Square in Blanco. Located along the banks of the Blanco River, the park offers picnic sites, fishing, swimming, canoeing and hike-bike trails. Open Daily. 
  • Hill Country Lavender. Located on the corner of RR 165 and RR 2325. Call for seasonal hours.  Products available at Brieger Pottery on the Square
  • Arnosky Family Farm. Located on the corner of RR 165 and RR 2325. Check for hours
  • Blanco County Courthouse. Located on the Square of downtown Blanco, this beautiful old courthouse has been lovingly restored to its original 1885 glory and featured in the recent remake of “True Grit”. The Visitor’s Center is located on the ground floor. 
  • Andalusia Whiskey Co. 
  • Milam and Greene Whiskey.
  • Oro Bianco Italian Creamery. Texas’ first and only water buffalo dairy and creamery, selling delicious gelato, burrata and mozzarella. Selection of charcuterie and other specialty foods. Plus, espresso! Call for hours.
  • Texas Canon Brewing Company.

 

Comfort

  • Juniper Green Antiques. A wonderful collection of European copper, re-lined for modern day use.

View more on the city website.

Dripping Springs

  • Cowgirls and Lace. An amazing selection of fabrics that bring top designers to Dripping Springs, including unique gifts, home accessories, and clothing. 

Explore Mercer Street area in Dripping Springs:

 

Fredericksburg

 

Gruene

 

Johnson City

  • The Science Mill. Located on 101 South Lady Bird Lane. Call for details: 844-262-6405

Kerrville

Luckenbach

View more on the city website.

 

Llano

  • Explore Wildlife. Our national bird, the bald eagle, nests from November through mid March in the large trees overhanging the Llano River, just a yard or so from the road and 8 miles east of Llano on Highway 29. TXDOT has designated parking areas on either side of the road for bird viewing. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!

 

Medina

  • Love Creek Orchards. In addition to apple cider, ice cream, apple pies, and other edible goodies, they also sell an assortment of quilts and kitchen accessories.

 

New Braunfels

  • Wurstfest. Usually in late October, this 10 day festival celebrates all things German.

 

San Antonio

Also just 45 minutes away lies San Antonio, a city full of cool stuff to do!

 

Stonewall

View more on the city website.

 

Wimberley

View more on the city website.

There’s so much more to explore in the Texas Hill Country. You and your group can experience the art of food in hands-on cooking classes or intimate private dining experiences with expert chef, Sibby Barrett!
Learn more and book your experience today.