best small cities to visit in texas

33 Charming Small towns in Texas to Visit Now

Small towns in Texas make for great summer vacations, winter holiday destinations, weekend getaways, and romantic escapes in the Lone Star State.

An epic road trip through these small Texas towns is a great way to see the state.

Fishing towns along the Gulf Coast attract families looking for beaches and surf while the charming towns and wineries of Texas Hill Country make great honeymoon destinations for couples. 

The Old Wild West towns appeal to those seeking Texas history, excitement, and adventure.

Also Read: 17 Best Texas honeymoon destinations

In some of them you can step back in the days of cowboys and drink moonshine at a saloon.

You can see a gunfight or cattle ranching in action. 

Also Read: 10 Best German Towns in Texas

Texas also has many ghost towns: places that were once thriving but were abandoned due to the Great Depression, natural disasters, end of the railroad era, and changing routes.

Their shuttered shops and derelict homes are perfect for exploring. 

Here is our list of best small towns in Texas that you can visit now!

Best Small Towns to Visit in Texas

From unique cultures to delicious local cuisine, you will find a lot of things to do in Texas small towns.

Most of the best towns in Texas have their own free local history museums, county parks, excellent antiquing, and plenty of outdoor attractions.

A recent awareness of public art campaigns is bringing art walks, arts & crafts festivals, beautiful public art pieces, murals, sculptures, and intriguing architecture to many of these Texas small towns. 

For those who love slow travel and local travel, these Texas small towns provide the best experience and bang for your buck.

So fasten the seatbelts and let’s take the backroads to our favorite small towns in Texas! 

Also Read: Best Texas Winter Vacations

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is a picturesque Hill Country town in central Texas, known for its German heritage and charming Main Street.

The city is also home to a number of museums, including the National Museum of the Pacific War.

There are numerous German restaurants and shops in the city, as well as a Bavarian-style brewery.

In addition to its German heritage, Fredericksburg is also known for its wine industry.

It is located in the Texas wine country and there are over 40 wineries located in the Fredericksburg area .

Want to feel like you’re walking through a ghost town in the old west?

Well, strap on your boots, cowboy, ‘cause Luckenbach is your kind of rodeo.

This small town is famous for country music and over hundreds of people gather to listen to concerts any given weekend. 

The town has a very small population of just 3 people and is only about an hour north of San Antonio which makes it a great place to stop for a day trip.

The general store is a cluster and culmination of all things Texas with cowboy hats, boots, leather, and hides dangling in all corners of the old wood building. 

Besides the general store, Luckenbach also has a post office and a dance hall.

There are also a few vineyards nearby offering wine tours.

South Padre Island

Want to find an awesome Texas beach town for your trip?

Look no further than South Padre Island .

Situated just off the tip of Texas’ southeastern coast, South Padre is about 3 hours from Corpus Christi and 4 and a half from San Antonio. It is very close to the Mexican border. 

The island has a few beaches for you to choose from, the best of which is probably Isla Blanca Park located on the southern part of the Island.

Here you can do some snorkeling, relax on the beach, or visit ​El Christo de Pescadores, a giant metal statue that speaks to the rich history of fishing in the area. 

The town also has great hikes and nature trails, a theme park, and even aquarium activities with sea turtles and dolphins.

Port Aransas

​A great seaside experience that exemplifies the Texas coastline!

Take a trip to Port Aransas and you will find 18 miles of sandy Texas beach on the Gulf of Mexico .

The town is located on Mustang Island, a little under three hours from San Antonio, and only 45 minutes from Corpus Christi. 

For activities, you can take a trip over to Port Aransas beach for swimming or surfing.

Be sure to visit the Leonabelle Turn Bull center for a birding tour along a boardwalk in the Texas wetlands or do some camping in Mustang Island State Park. 

For good seafood in the area try Fin’s Grill and Icehouse to sample the catch of the day.

One of our favorite charming small towns in Texas!

It is located within the city limits of New Braunfels, Texas about an hour south of Austin. 

Founded in 1845 by German immigrants, Gruene was once a thriving cotton-producing community.

It flourished with a cotton gin, Gruene general store, and a gristmill – all of which are on the National Register of Historic Places today!

Gruene (pronounced like “Green”) has preserved its rich history and unique culture in the Gruene Historic District.

Visitors can step back in time as they stroll down Main Street, lined with Victorian-style buildings housing antique shops, boutiques, and ice cream parlors.

Gruene is also home to the oldest dance hall in Texas, where visitors can enjoy live country music by popular artists.

The Gristmill Restaurant, located in the town’s original cotton gin, is another must visit attraction.

Spend some time on the Guadalupe River or Comal River for some fun rafting, fishing, or river tubing while you are visiting Gruene.

Jefferson, Texas is a small town with a lot of character.

Founded in 1836, it was one of the earliest towns in Texas and served as the capital of the Republic of Texas for a brief period of time.

Today, Jefferson is known for its historic downtown, which is full of quaint shops and restaurants, oodles of small town charm, as well as excellently preserved Victorian architecture.

Visitors can explore the historic buildings – many of which are on the National Register of Historic places, shop for antiques, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.

This old brewery town is a great place to visit if you’re a fan of local beers and wines.

Shiner, also the name of a popular beer produced in the area, is about an hour and a half from both Austin and San Antonio. 

One of the best places to stay in the town is a bed and breakfast called Spoetzl Haus.

This lovely little residence has dark hardwood floors and a complimentary breakfast with every stay.

It’s also decorated with little pieces of Shiner’s history, so you can ask your host for interesting tidbits about the town. 

Other popular locations in Shiner are Spoetzl Brewery, ​Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, and Edward Wolter’s Memorial Museum and Licorice and Lemon Drop’s old fashioned candy shop. ​

The town is full of character and is definitely fun for a couple of day’s trip.

Want to see and experience life on the Mexico/Texas border?

Laredo is a beautiful Spanish-villa style town that was built 258 years ago. 

The small texas town is on the Mile 1 marker of Interstate Highway 35 and about 2 and a half hours from Corpus Christi.

Beyond exploring the unique location and eating some awesome tex-mex, there are several other activities available in Laredo. 

Visit the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum to see an authentic Laredo home for the 1830s.

Go to the reservoir in Lake Casa Blanca State Park, hike the trail along Zacate Creek (a famous battle site during the Civil War), or even learn something about space in the Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium. 

With countless other activities, there is a ton to do in this border town. 

Boerne, Texas is a nature lover’s paradise. 

The town’s Main Street shopping district is called the Hill Country Mile.

It is full of quaint boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and delicious restaurants.

The Guadalupe River runs through the center of Boerne and is perfect for swimming, fishing, canoeing, and tubing. 

There are also several riverfront parks where you can picnic or take a leisurely stroll.

The Cave without a Name is one of Boerne’s most popular attractions. 

The cave is a stunning example of Mother Nature’s handiwork and offers tours for all ages. 

The cave is approximately 3 miles long and features beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. 

Be sure to bring your camera so you can capture all the beauty that this attraction has to offer.

A town in northeastern Texas with a ton of small-town flavor.

West has some of the prettiest prairies, mountains, and rock formations in the whole state right on its doorstep. 

The town is a little under 2 hours north of Austin and just north of Waco .

Book a room at the Holiday Inn or the Bed and Breakfast on Whitecreek rock, and stay for a couple of days to enjoy great open Texas outdoors. 

One famous hiking trail runs through this town: the Kolache trail.

Although, it’s not really a trail at all but a food tour sampling the famous Czech pastry the Kolache.

Texas has a rich Czech immigrant history and it is exemplified in their baking of this delicious dessert.

Dripping Springs

Situated just outside of Austin, Dripping Springs is a small town with a lot to offer. 

From hiking and biking trails to wineries and breweries, there’s something for everyone in Dripping Springs. 

Popular attractions include the Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve, Reimers Ranch, Dreamland, and the charming downtown. 

There are also plenty of opportunities to shop for handcrafted goods, listen to live music, and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Georgetown , Texas is a charming town located just north of Austin.

This small town in Texas is known for its beautiful Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and a beautiful town square.

Georgetown is home to a variety of different attractions, including the Georgetown Palace Theatre and the Williamson Museum.

There are also plenty of places to eat and drink in Georgetown, from local cafes to upscale restaurants.

Marfa is an artistic, quaint town located in the high desert of far West Texas.

In recent years, it has become a popular destination for artists, musicians, and other creative types.

The city is home to a number of art galleries, studios, and performance spaces.

It is also home to the Marfa Lights, mysterious orbs of light that have been spotted in the night sky for centuries.

Marfa makes a perfect stop on the Big Bend National Park road trip.

Whether you’re drawn to Marfa for its creative vibes or its inexplicable phenomena, there’s no denying that it’s a truly unique place.

Known as the Irish capital of Texas, this central Texas small town has a robust and diverse population with a number of great local artisans and history to explore.

It is 2 hours southwest of Dallas and two hours northwest of Austin. 

While you’re there make sure to stop at the Dublin Bottling Works and Old Doc Soda shop, the birthplace of the famous brand of American soda Dr. Pepper.

You can wander through the cute and tiny shops of downtown or even take a tour of a local farm! 

Head over to De Leon Inn if you’re looking for a cheap place to stay and grab a bite at Woody’s Place to sample some awesome American Barbecue. 

​Just outside of the Texan city of Amarillo is a comfy little North Texas town with a special charm and frontier feel. 

Canyon is actually closer to major cities outside of Texas than inside.

It is a little over 4 hours from Albuquerque and Oklahoma City.

The tiny town is actually located inside of the Palo Duro Canyon , which is nicknamed the Grand Canyon of Texas because it is the second-largest Canyon in the U.S. 

Nearby, you can go camping or enjoy the hiking trails in Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Or, you can go downtown to do some shopping, take a gander and a few historic buildings, and see the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum.

Welcome to the Cowboy Capital of the World.

Historically, the town was the site of several bloody battles between the Apache and the Comanche Indian tribes and gained relevance as a cypress logging community in the mid-1800s. 

Located only one hour from San Antonio, Bandera is close to two state natural areas and has great trails for hiking, bicycling, or even horseback riding. 

When you come in from a rough day on the saddle take a trip over to the local museum, check the event calendar for some live music, or lay your head down to rest at the River Oak Inn. 

On the western edge of Texas, this small town’s isolation will give you a brightly lit image of the night’s sky.

The nearest big city is El Paso and that is more than 3 hours away.

Alpine is also very close to the Mexican border and is popular for its proximity to Big Bend National Park.

This desert town is a great place to visit if you like peace and quiet and spending time outside.

Take a walk along Hancock Hill Trails where you can see “the desk” a metal desk dragged out into the wilderness by college students so they could have a scenic place to study. 

North of Alpine is the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center, also a great place to go for a stroll and learn about the local desert critters.

You can also take a historic walking tour of the town to help you better understand its history.

Come here to see the birthplace of the Texas Revolution.

The town’s motto, “Come and take it,” speaks to the defiant history where Texas’ fight for independence from Mexico and their annexation by the U.S. began. 

It is conveniently located a little over an hour from Austin and about 2 and a half from Houston.

There are multiple museums in the town that speak to both Texas and frontier history including Gonzales Memorial Museum, Living History Farm, Pioneer Village, and Gonzales County Jail Museum. 

The town is also close to Palmetto State Park where you can enjoy some outdoor activities and is home to many restaurants like the Gonzales Food Market, Baker Boys BBQ, and Cow Palace. 

Port Isabel

Love coastal towns? Port Isabel is a small town located on the Gulf of Mexico in southeastern Texas.

The town is home to a number of historic sites, including the Historic Port Isabel lighthouse and the Port Isabel Museum.

The town is also a popular destination for fishing and birdwatching.

Visitors to Port Isabel can enjoy a number of activities, including swimming, kayaking, and windsurfing.

The town is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes, as well as shops selling souvenirs and local arts and crafts.

Fort Stockton

Talk about remote, this West Texas town is over three hours from the nearest major city of El Paso .

This town used to be a popular stop for cowboys and other old west folks and today serves as a pleasant reminder to a time once forgotten. 

Take a walk through Fort Stockton’s historic district to see Pecos County Courthouse, the “Old Jail” from 1884, and the “Oldest House” believed to be built in 1855.

The town is also home to an Authentic old west saloon: Grey Mule Saloon.

This is a great place to unbuckle your spurs and have a whiskey or root beer. 

You’ll probably be tired from all the driving so lay your head down to rest at the La Quinta Inn, it is very central within the town. 

Want to go off the beaten track?

Terlingua, Texas is a unique ghost town located in the Chihuahuan Desert.

Founded in the 1880s as a mining town, Terlingua later became known for its position on the Rio Grande and its proximity to Big Bend National Park.

Terlingua Ghost Town was once home to more than 2,000 people.

However, the miners left in the early 20th century, and the town was largely abandoned.

Visitors can explore the abandoned mines, visit the old cemetery, or take a hike through the surrounding desert.

This is actually one of the bigger towns on our list, with a population of 12,000.

However, that does not subtract from its warm and quaint atmosphere. 

At just 30 minutes outside of Austin, it is a must-visit for anyone who is curious about the smaller towns within the state… and has a taste for BBQ.

Lockhart has been dubbed the “BBQ Capital of Texas,” and rightfully so. 

Their potent trio of BBQ restaurants (Black’s, Smitty’s, and Kreuz) have been highly awarded and BBQ lovers make the pilgrimage to Lockhart annually to have another taste of their delicious meats. 

Beyond the food, the town also has a lot of beautiful, colonial-style buildings like their courthouse and county jail museum in the town square.

Want to see a town with an extremely small population?

Take a trip over to Uncertain in East Texas.

In the 2010 census, it was recorded to have a population of just 94, down from 150 in 2000. In 2018 it was believed to have only 59 people. 

While it may not be the best town for clubbing, there is still plenty of fun to be had in Uncertain.

It is located in the northeastern corner of the state, almost three hours from Dallas. 

The town is located right on the banks of Caddo Lake.

The gnarled and enormous cypresses of the lake/swamp form beautiful scenery for walks around the town and the surrounding area.

It also has a number of water activities like boat tours and lakeside hiking/walking trails for you to choose from. 

If you want to really spice up your accommodation, try renting a cabin with Moonglow Lodges, they will set you up in a fully wooden hut situated on stilts in the lake.

Uncertain makes the perfect base to explore Caddo Lake State Park .

Granbury was voted the “Best Historic Small Town in America,” – primarily because of its Historic Downtown Square!

The buildings that line the square date back to the late 19th century, and the original brick paving stones are still in place.

The courthouse, which anchors the historic town square, was built in 1893 and is still in use today.

The town has a rich culture and deep southern hospitality that will make your heart warm.

Go to the Acton Nature center for a look at some wildlife and flora, then head over to the Granbury historic Railroad Depot to learn about the iron horses of the old west. 

Spend some time on the banks of Lake Granbury.

It is about an hour and 15 minutes from Dallas and only 48 minutes from Fort Worth. 

Nacogdoches

Founded in 1716, Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas and has a rich history.

The streets are lined with beautiful old buildings, and the residents are friendly and welcoming.

There is a lot to do in Nacogdoches, from shopping and dining to visiting museums and exploring the great outdoors.

Downtown Nacogdoches is full of unique shops and restaurants, and the city hosts several festivals throughout the year.

It is undoubtedly one of the most charming small towns in Texas!

Marble Falls

Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Marble Falls is a charming small town with a big personality.

From its scenic location on the shores of Lake Marble Falls to its rich history and vibrant arts community, there is much to love about this special place.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming, or explore the many shops and galleries downtown.

And no trip to Marble Falls would be complete without sampling the famous pies at Bluebonnet Cafe!

Hidden Falls Adventure Park is perfect for biking and ATV enthusiasts.

Schulenberg

Take a peek at some of the German cultures hiding in Southeastern Texas.

Schulenberg is also very easy to reach as it is in between and almost equidistant from Houston, San Antonio, and Austin, no more than an hour and thirty minutes from each. 

You won’t want to miss the painted churches, Model Airplane Museum, and homemade German sausage and schnitzel.

Saint Mary’s Catholic Church is known as the Queen of Painted Churches, but St. John the Baptist Church and Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church are close seconds. 

The Stanzel Model Aircraft Museum is owned by the Stanzel Family; model aircraft royalty who was inducted into the Model Aircraft hall of fame.

Finally, for some great German cuisine try to visit the City Meat Market or Mama’s at Sengelmann Hall for some of the best Schnitzel and Sausage dollars can buy. 

Come here to see some gorgeous open vistas in the Davis Mountains.

People have compared the scenery here to New Mexico, Chihuahua, and even Australia due to the intricate rock formations and wide-open spaces. 

Like most of West Texas, the biggest city nearby is El Paso at about three hours away.

While you’re here trying to do some bird watching, West Texas has 17 of the 18 species of hummingbird native to the state. 

You can also do a trip hiking or camping in the Davis Mountains, or cycle through them on a ride through the “Scenic Loop.”

The town also has glider flying, the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Gardens, and Fort Davis National Historic Site. 

Johnson City

Johnson City is a city in the Hill Country region of Texas about an hour away from Austin.

It is the county seat of Blanco County and is located on the Pedernales River.

This town is named after the 36th president of the United States: Lyndon B. Johnson.

Johnson City is known for its quaint downtown area, which features a variety of shops and restaurants.

The city is also home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Site.

Visitors to the park can tour the Johnson family home, as well as see exhibits on LBJ’s childhood, his time in Congress, and his presidency.

The LBJ Ranch is the most popular site in the park. It served as Texas white house for President Johnson.

This primarily historic town has several buildings from the late 1800s. It is a little under three hours from Fort Worth. 

Some of the historic sites you can visit in this town include an old railroad depot, an authentic book store in the town square,…..

…..a restored Aztec Theatre and Art Center in the Old Jail and….

….a massive colonial-style courthouse from 1883 that still has the original clock and bell!

It can get hot in Texas, so after you finish with a long day of walking go and eat ice cream at the Albany Ice Company, established in 1926.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay try stopping at the Albany Inn and RV campground, a perfect pit stop for a long road trip across Texas or the U.S. in general.

Located in one of the hilliest parts of Texas, Llano is awesome for travelers who like hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation.

This historic town was the last stop on the railroad for adventures traveling west into the wild frontier.

It is a little under two hours from San Antonio and about an hour and a half from Austin. 

If you’re planning on staying for a night or two, try and book a room at the Dabbs Railroad Hotel, a fully operational railside hotel in business since the times of the old west.

If you want to see an interesting rock formation check out the Llano uplift, where unusually shaped stones emerged when granite pushed itself to the Earth’s surface. 

Located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, Wimberley is a charming small town with a thriving arts community.

The town is home to several art galleries, as well as the Wimberley Players, a community theater group.

There are also several excellent restaurants, cafes, and shops.

In addition to its arts and culture scene, Wimberley is also popular with outdoor enthusiasts.

The town is surrounded by hiking and biking trails, and there are several lakes and rivers nearby for swimming, fishing, and canoeing.

Another one of its most beloved attractions is the Blue Hole.

This natural swimming hole is spring-fed and consistently stays at around 68 degrees, making it a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

Rockport is a small town located on the Gulf of Mexico coast.

The town is known for its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and variety of outdoor activities.

Rockport is also home to a number of art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking, and bird watching.

Goose Island State Park, located near Rockport, is another major attraction.

We hope you liked our post on best small towns to live and visit in Texas.

Did we miss out on any amazing small town in the Lone Star State? Let us know in the comments.

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Lake Jackson, on the Gulf Coast, near Freeport, Texas, and 1- hour equidistant from Houston and Galveston, is a lovely small town. The Sea Center Texas, with its fish hatchery and ponds, plus a wild-life marsh outside is a wonderful attraction as are the huge aquariums and touch-tank inside the Center. The town was built by Alden Dow, founder of Dow Chemical Co. during WW II for the plant workers. There is a Historical Museum downtown with animatronics of Alden Dow, and Albert “Dutch” Beutel, one of the designers of the town, as well as the Windecker Eagle plane, a prototype using Stealth plane technology. Lake Jackson is next-door to Clute, Texas, another small town with the Center for the Arts & Sciences in the front of Brazosport Community College. The Center contains a Nature Museum, an Art Gallery, a Planetarium, a theatre-in-the-round, and a proscenium theatre, as well as being the home of the Brazosport Symphony. Lake Jackson, Clute, and 11 other small towns comprise an unincorporated community known as Brazosport, which is located within the Greater Houston Metroplex. Lake Jackson’s many parks and numerous trees have earned it many awards, and outside of the town is the relics of the sugar mill and plantation that gave the town its name, as well as the “Enchanted Oak” that symbolizes the town.

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20 Fabulous Small Towns in Texas You Must Visit

Sure, everyone knows Austin, Houston, and Dallas, but what about all the charming small towns in between that make up the heart and soul of Texas?

Those are my favorite towns, and this is a list of a few fabulous small towns in Texas for you to see !

These charming small towns will make you feel right at home with their southern charm, interesting history, and incredible people.

We love visiting these towns in Texas, especially on Texas road trips, and we hope you will too!

When you need a break from the big cities, these small towns will fit the bill!

*This post contains affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you.  That Texas Couple also participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Small Towns in Texas We Love

Fredericksburg, texas.

Fredericksburg is definitely one of the small towns in Texas that we love, thanks to its unique German heritage! 

You will find this great place about 70 miles north of San Antonio, which is on the list of  up-and-coming US Travel Destinations .

You can enjoy some awesome German restaurants and see some sites on this town’s National Register of Historic Places!

Visitors love to camp or hike at Enchanted Rock State Park and find it the perfect place to connect with nature.

History lovers will enjoy visiting the National Museum of the Pacific War. The National Museum of the Pacific War is a world-class museum that is definitely worth seeing.

Boerne is one of the best small towns in Texas for nature lovers as it sits right on the Guadalupe River in the Texas Hill Country , an easy day trip from several Texas cities.

Visitors will enjoy the Hill Country Mile, Boerne’s main street historic district, which is a shopper’s paradise .

Nature lovers won’t want to miss Cibolo Nature Center, the Guadalupe River, and Guadalupe State Park. 

Read Next : Epic Things To Do In New Orleans

Grapevine is one of the best small towns in Texas for family fun .

In North Texas, between Dallas and Fort Worth, Grapevine has many great family activities and is an easy day trip from Dallas .

Grapevine’s Main Street, which is also its his toric downtown , boasts loads of boutique clothing stores, fabulous restaurants, and wine bars.

Grapevine also hosts festivals and events year-round.  

Dubbed “ The Christmas Capital of Texas ”, December is a great time to visit Grapevine as it is a fabulous Texas Christmas town !

Located about 45 minutes southwest of Fort Worth, Granbury is one of our favorite small towns in Texas.

The quaint town of Granbury is best known for the great recreational lake that the town is located around, but Lake Granbury isn’t the only draw for this town.  

Granbury is full of Texas history and is one of the most charming small Texas towns .

Not only that, but there are so many  things to do in Granbury, TX , that you can easily stay entertained!

In addition to the lake activities, visit Granbury’s historic town square.

On the historic downtown square, you will find The Granbury Opera House, boutique shops, eateries, wine-tasting rooms, and more!

Located just off of I-35 in the Hill Country is Gruene.  

One of the best small towns in Texas, Gruene is a town that is a favorite for locals and tourists alike, making it an easy day trip from Austin .

Gruene is home to the famous Gruene Hall dance hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas. 

People love to hear the live music performed at this historic dance hall while two-stepping to the beat of country music. 

Gruene Hall dates back to the 19th century (1878, to be exact) and has purposefully not changed much since its inception.

Visitors will also find a fun square with antique shops, a General store, wine bars, river tubing outfitters along the Guadalupe River, and the historic Gruene River Inn at this town in Texas.

Honestly, this town is full of Texas charm!

Dripping Springs

Take the scenic drive about 23 miles west of Austin into the Texas Hill Country, and you will run into one of the best small towns, Dripping Springs.

Dubbed the “Wedding Capital of Texas” and one of the charming small towns in Texas we love!

If a wedding isn’t in your future, don’t worry, there are other things to do in town. 

Take note of the town’s namesake located in the downtown area, the dripping springs. 

The limestone ledge constantly drips water into the small stream below.

Don’t let the small size of Dublin fool you. 

There are so many  things to do in Dublin, TX  that you will easily stay entertained (and full)!  

Dublin is best known for the Texas soda Dr. Pepper.

Although they no longer bottle Dr. Pepper, Dublin Bottling Works still has amazing soda flavors from their small production facility. 

Take a tour through the factory and make your own souvenir soda before visiting the museum and checking out the shops around town.

Marble Falls

It’s easy to pass through Marble Falls on your way through the Texas Hill Country, but trust me; Marble Falls is worth spending some time in.

Marble Falls is another great town for nature lovers. 

Explore the Balcones Canyonlands Natural Wildlife Refuge or spend a lazy day on Lake Marble Falls.

A trip to Marble Falls is not incomplete until you get a delicious slice of pie from the Bluebonnet Cafe. Trust us!

Located off of I-35, about an hour north of Waco, West is the place for Czech heritage in Texas.

The Czech Stop Bakery is a favorite stop for anyone traveling through this area.  

Famous for their kolaches, The Czech Stop never disappoints when it comes to having fresh pastries that are big on flavor.  

Every year in September, West turns into Czech heaven when “Westfest” takes over the town, and they celebrate their Czech heritage in this tiny town.

Read Next : Visiting the San Antonio River Walk at Christmas

Luckenbach, Texas

This historic town of Luckenbach, TX, dates back to 1970 when Hondo Crouch founded it as a joke.

Luckenbach, Texas, is a tiny dot on the big Texas map located just north of San Antonio and west of Austin.

The small town consists of a post office, a general store, and the main draw, a Texas dance hall.  

Spend the evening listening to live music, having drinks, and two-stepping until your feet hurt.

Oh, and don’t forget to pick up a souvenir from the general store and take your picture in front of the post office!

Luckenbach, TX, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

New Braunfels

Beating the Texas heat is easy in New Braunfels, so it had to make our list of the best small towns in Texas to visit.

Grab your tube and a cooler and join the hundreds of other people relaxing the day away on the Comal River.  

No worries if it isn’t summertime when you visit; there is still plenty to do in New Braunfels. 

Catch a movie at their drive-in theatre or sip wine in the local winery.

Read Next: 15 Fun Things to Do in Glen Rose, TX

If you are looking for a small town in Texas with charm and originality, you must head to Wimberley, Texas.  

Located about an hour from Austin and other big cities, Wimberley is a great small town.

Head down to the Wimberley town square to shop at the boutiques, tour the art galleries and the general store, and enjoy some great food at the local eateries.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to  do in Wimberley  as well.  

Located on the Blanco River and Cypress Creek, you can enjoy various outdoor activities, including fishing, swimming in the Blue Hole, hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, and camping.

Salado is a charming small town with a big art community! 

Salado prides itself on being an artistic community, apparent everywhere in this small Texas town.

You can spend hours on Salado’s main street shopping in eclectic shops, eating at the yummy eateries, or sipping wine in the wine bars.  

Art lovers will appreciate the glass-blowing studio, the beautiful art galleries around town, and the Salado Sculpture Garden.

Port Isabel

Of course, we couldn’t make a list of small towns in Texas and not include Port Isabel.

This little jewel on the Texas coast is just begging you to visit.

Port Isabel is most famous for the 1800s Isabel lighthouse (one of the oldest in Texas), part of this family-friendly community.

Don’t overlook that Port Isabel is also one of the oldest coastal towns in Texas.

Read Next: 20 Fun Things to do in Galveston

Johnson City

Johnson City is a truly historic Texas town in Texas located about 60 miles north of San Antonio .  

Home to President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “Texas White House” and LBJ National Park, history lovers will appreciate that the Texas White House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Pedernales Falls is full of hiking trails and a beautiful river to help you find some relief from the summer heat.

This town offers a cute town square with several antique and various shops, a couple of wineries, Pecan Street Brewing, and Garrison Distillery.

Canyon is such a unique, small West Texas town. 

We love that Canyon is packed with a nice historic district with great food, unique shopping, and fun small-town charm.

Many people visit West Texas, and specifically Canyon, to tour  Palo Duro Canyon State Park  and see the acclaimed outdoor performance of the musical drama TEXAS.

The second-largest canyon in the United States, Palo Duro Canyon State Park, is called the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” 

In addition to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, you must spend time in its historic downtown area with unique shops, fun restaurants, and historic buildings.

Another one of the great towns on the coast of the Lone Star State, Rockport, is home to long fishing piers, historical sites, and soft sandy beaches. 

Be sure to visit the Aransas National Refuge Area and the Goose Island State Park while visiting.

Rockport before visiting Fulton Mansion State Historic Park. 

Visitors are introduced to life on the Texas coast in the 19th century.

Of course, there are also several museums, shopping, and great restaurants in the Rockport area. 

Read Next : 150 Dreamy Beach Quotes and Beach Captions

Nacogdoches

Located in East Texas, Nacogdoches makes for a great weekend getaway. 

Nacogdoches has such great attractions you are sure to stay busy and have a great time. 

Not only that, but Nacogdoches has tons of history as it is the oldest town in the Lone Star State.

Visit the red brick street of the downtown historic district area to get your fill on shopping, especially antiques, before grabbing lunch and exploring the historical sites of east Texas.

Located in the desert land of west Texas, Marfa is a little Texas gem. 

If you were driving through the area, you might miss the quaint town of Marfa. 

The Marfa Lights, glowing orbs that appear in the desert, were first seen in 1883 and have attracted visitors to the area ever since.

Be sure to visit the Ballroom Marfa. It is a great place to see some world-class art on display.

One of Marfa’s most popular attractions is the Prada Marfa store, although it is not technically in Marfa. 

The Prada store, Prada Marfa, is about minutes northwest of town.

Located near the Lone Star State border and the Rio Grande River, Terlingua is probably the town you will stay in if you visit Big Bend National Park.

The tiny desert town of Terlingua was a former mining town until the city was abandoned when the mining went under.

It was named a ghost town until its resurgence with Big Bend National Park.

Most people come to Terlingua to explore the abandoned buildings and homes and to use it as a home base when visiting Big Bend National Park.

While in the area, you should also check out the small towns of Alpine and Marfa.

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About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through creative content creation and her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel and accompanying social media accounts.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Sunday 7th of April 2024

Great suggestions! When I studied in Houston, we also went to Galveston a lot... perhaps my favourite town in Texas, although I am not sure it still counts as a "small town"

thattexascouple

Monday 8th of April 2024

You're right, it has grown so much! I still think of it as a small town though ;)

Laureen Lund

Saturday 6th of April 2024

I have visited several of these on a visit a few years ago. But most of these I have never heard of! Looks like I need to get back to the Lone Star State. Thanks for opening my eyes.

Thanks for checking it out, Laureen!

I love how you constantly reveal new places and things to see in Texas. I find small towns are a favorite place to visit in my travels.

Thank you so much, Terri!

Fun and FREE Things to Do in Glen Rose, Texas You Cannot Miss!

Tuesday 25th of October 2022

[…] Rose is also one of the prettiest small towns in Texas. It is located on the outskirts of the Texas Hill Country with a calming river running through the […]

Thursday 21st of April 2022

Love the suggestions. Have you been to Calvert, TX? Cute little town with a winery and a lovely coffee shop with fresh made pastries that would put Starbucks to shame. Wonderful day trip just 30 minutes north of College Station.

Friday 22nd of April 2022

Hi Sheila. Thank you so much for reading the post and taking time to comment. We have not been to Calvert (well, other than just passing through). I will definitely add it to our list. Hopefully we can visit soon! What's the name of the coffee shop?

34 of the Best Small Towns in Texas That You Don't Hear About Enough

There's a world of hidden gems beyond the bustling metropolises of Dallas, Houston, and Austin.

From Amarillo to Terlingua, these treasures beckon with their authentic charm, warm hospitality, and a glimpse into the heart and soul of Texas. Whether it's a town known for its world-class barbecue, a haven for artists and craftsmen, or a place steeped in historical significance, each stop on this list offers something truly special, but most importantly: the chance to slow down, take in the sights, and experience the true essence of Texas.

From the friendly locals who greet you with a warm "howdy, y'all" to quaint main streets lined with boutique shops and local eateries, every small town (or, yes, a city or two that we find equally charming) in Texas has unique character waiting to be explored.

When visiting Gruene , a town established by German farmers in the 1840s, the no. 1 thing on your to-do list should be seeing a show at the famous Gruene Hall , Texas's oldest operating dance hall, built in 1878. And just a few steps away, you'll find this sweet bed and breakfast : Gruene Mansion Inn .

Fredericksburg

If you're looking for the perfect spot for a girls' getaway , Fredericksburg is a great home base for visiting some of Texas's best wineries. The Texas Hill Country region is home to more than 45 vineyards, including favorites like Barons Creek Vineyards and 16 others that are all a part of the local winery association, Fredericksburg Wine Road 290 .

Only 13 miles from Fredericksburg, Luckenbach is another must-see Hill Country town. You can still visit its oldest building today—it's a combination of a general store, post office, and a saloon, which opened in 1886, a few decades after the town was established as a trading post in 1849.

Visit the border town of Laredo, one of the oldest border-crossing points, which sits on the north bank of the Rio Grande River. In the heart of the downtown historic district, don't miss visiting the Cathedral of San Agustin, which dates back to 1872.

It might seem unlikely that a Prada-themed art exhibit would exist in the middle of nowhere, a.k.a. Marfa, Texas , a city with less than 2,000 people—but that's precisely what has made this little town so famous. The 2005 Prada Marfa exhibit is a one-room, stucco replica of an actual Prada store, designed by artists Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset. It's become a cultural landmark for the tiny town, with visitors, including celebs like Beyoncé , passing through to see it.

Brownsville

Saying you've visited Brownsville , located at the southernmost tip of Texas, is an accomplishment in and of itself, since the state is so large! While you're there, don't forget to visit the beautiful historic downtown on Elizabeth Street.

If you're driving along Route 66 , make a pit stop in Amarillo, where you'll find The Big Texan Steak Ranch , home of a 72-ounce steak. And if you're in the mood for something quirky, check out the roadside art attraction Cadillac Ranch , featuring 10 graffiti-covered Cadillacs.

Known for its historic courthouse square and namesake lake, Granbury has plenty to offer visitors. After a walk around the square, check out the Granbury Opera House for a live performance. When you’re ready to hit the lake for fishing and water sports, Granbury has its own sandy beach, City Beach Park, perfect for families looking for a fun day out.

If there’s one town on this list you’ve heard of, Waco is probably it. Home to HGTV's "Fixer Upper" stars Chip and Joanna Gaines, Waco has significantly transformed since the pair first appeared on your TV set. Head downtown to the Silos and Magnolia Market to shop and grab a bite to eat at the Magnolia Table—and then see a Broadway-style show at the Waco Hippodrome Theatre . Not far away, the Dr. Pepper Museum showcases the history of the beloved Texas soft drink invented in the town. Baylor University also has several museums that are open to the public, including the Texas Sports Hall of Fame and the Mayborn Museum Complex.

Port Lavaca

Port Lavaca is a coastal Texas town that offers a serene escape with its beautiful beaches and scenic waterfront. The town is especially popular for fishing and water sports, but visitors can also relax on the sandy shores of Magnolia Beach or explore the nearby Matagorda Island Wildlife Management Area.

Port Isabel

Located on the southern tip of Texas, Port Isabel is a small coastal town that boasts a rich history. Climb to the top of the Port Isabel Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and explore the nearby Port Isabel Historical Museum to learn more about the area's past.

This small north Texas town features a charming town square with many unique boutiques and antique shops. The square is the heart of the town’s many festivities, like the Cooper Crawfish Bash and the Tour de Paris Bicycle Rally. You can also find plenty of outdoor recreational activities at Cooper Lake State Park nearby, like camping, fishing, swimming, and hiking.

Dripping Springs

About 23 miles west of Austin, you'll find the town of Dripping Springs, where you can take a refreshing dip in the Hamilton Pool Preserve , a picturesque swimming hole created thousands of years ago after an eroded underground river collapsed.

This vibrant coastal city is located on Galveston Island in the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its historic architecture, stunning beaches, and lively entertainment, Galveston offers plenty of things to do: Visitors can explore the Strand Historic District, filled with Victorian-era buildings; relax on beautiful beaches; and enjoy attractions, such as the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and Moody Gardens.

Ask any Texan, and they'll tell you: The Dr. Pepper you can get in Dublin, where the drink originated, is the best of its kind. For more than 120 years, Dublin Bottling Works has been bottling sodas, and the company's Texas-made Imperial Pure Cane Sugar makes their Dr. Pepper so unique and sweet. While the company no longer bottles Dr. Pepper, you can still taste the soda at Old Doc's Soda Shop .

Port Aransas

As the only established town on Mustang Island, Port Aransas offers plenty of family-oriented activities, including visiting several local beaches, fishing on the Horace Caldwell Pier, and visiting the Lydia Ann Lighthouse.

This small town in Caldwell County holds a big claim to fame: It's renowned as the "Barbecue Capital of Texas." Famous for its mouthwatering barbecue, with several legendary barbecue joints serving up delicious smoked meats, Lockhart also boasts a charming downtown area with historic buildings, boutique shops, and local restaurants. The nearby Lockhart State Park also offers camping, hiking, and swimming.

It might be home to a little more than 2,000 people, but Shiner is also home to the famous Texas brewery, Shiner Beer , which started brewing in 1909. You can take a tour of the Spoetzl Brewery, where they still produce every single drop of Shiner Bock.

New Braunfels

If you've never been floatin', grab your inner tube, because New Braunfels is a good place to start. Relax while floating down the Guadalupe River, or you can visit the famed Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort if nature's not your thing.

The Comanche Museum and Cultural Center features exhibits on the town's interesting history, including the Comanche Indian tribe, pioneer life, and the Chisholm Trail. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike or trail ride through beautiful terrain at nearby Comanche Trail Park and end the day by checking out one of the town's many wineries.

Laura Ratliff is a New York City-based writer, editor, and runner. Laura's writing expertise spans numerous topics, ranging from travel and food and drink to reported pieces covering political and human rights issues. She has previously worked at Architectural Digest , Bloomberg News , and Condé Nast Traveler and was most recently the senior editorial director at TripSavvy . Like many of us, Laura was bitten by the running bug later in life, after years of claiming to "hate running." Her favorite marathon is Big Sur.

Madison Alcedo was the Assistant Editor at WomansDay.com and Redbookmag.com.

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24 Best Small Towns In Texas That You Need To Visit

Here are 24 of the best small towns in Texas.

Sprinkled in southern charm, baked in history, and saddled up in sweet shopping outlets, my favorite small towns in Texas are all heart. These quiet and cozy hamlets, perfect for a girl’s getaway (or family day trip), are all part of my weekend go-to list.

So if you’re planning a trip to the Lone Star State, here are 24 of the best small towns in Texas you need to visit!

Table of Contents

It’s no secret that Canton is one of the most popular small towns in Texas to visit over a weekend.

Canton hosts the largest and oldest flea market in the United States . First Monday trade days draw a huge weekend crowd each month, and it’s easy to see why. Booming with markets carrying vintage goods, Canton transforms, once a month, into a Saturday buzz.

Pack a picnic lunch and head on out from DFW ( or grab some funnel cake, nachos, and lemonade on-site ). Stroll through the market slowly. Take it all in. Repeat.

Celina is a quiet, bucolic town. The quietness stems from its simplicity . There isn’t much to do in Celina apart from lounge around and drink wine . But you’ll love it all the same.

From Pickens Lake to the Farm Museum to Caudalie Crest , Celina’s attractions are just as rustic and idle as the town itself!

Amidst farmland, rusty pick-up trucks, and worn signs is one of the most rugged small towns in Texas ( near Amarillo ) – Canyon.

Canyon’s known as the home of the second-largest canyon in the United States ( titled Palo Duro Canyon ).

A multi-colored spectacle formed by intense water erosion , Palo Duro Canyon locks over 15,000 years of history, from early Native American settlers to European colonizers, within its historic cliffs.

Stop by the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum , the largest history museum in Texas, before extending your trip out west!

Nacogdoches

With a train depot, scattered mural art, and Victorian-style architecture , Nacogdoches is a bit of a time warp. A little to the east and surrounded by tall deciduous trees, this is easily the best small town in Texas to catch the fall colors .

Start your trip at the Stone Fort Museum, hit up the SFA Plantery , and if you’re feeling adventurous, zip line!

From a little chapel in the woods to a gorgeous marble-floored library, Denton is one of the quaintest Texas small towns.

To be honest, I always visit for Boca 31, a hole-in-the-wall Latin American flare restaurant that serves sweet and savory Al Pastor tacos .

Although Denton is technically a city, it feels like a small town ( that’s what counts – right? ).

A former cotton cash crop reliant small Texas town, Gruene has now settled into its natural charm.

Here you’ll find a dance hall set in an old-school building, vintage shops, and quaint local eateries .

Home to Dinosaur Valley State Park , Glen Rose is one of the best small towns in Texas for hiking.

Glen Rose’s history predates the dawn of people. If you’re a Jurassic Park fan, this Texas town is a must-see. After all, dinosaurs once roamed the lush, green forest surrounding the Palauxy River . And today, their deep Sasquatch prints are still embedded into the mud.

If you’re craving a safari, add Fossil Rim to your DFW day trip bucket list!

One of the most underrated small towns in Texas, Terrell’s British roots are sown into the town’s architecture, stories, and museums. From local cafes to a cute neighborhood bookstore, this Kaufman County gem had me head-over-heels in love.

Start off your trip at the No. 1 BFTS Museum , then head on over to Ben Gill Park or the Terrell Heritage Museum. If it’s peach season, grab some peaches from the local market as well ( Kaufman County grows some of the best peaches in North Texas ).

South Padre

Known as a college spring break destination, South Padre’s reputation drowns in wild, party rumors.

But after digging deep and finding PG activities hidden within the small town, I was sold on the idea of spending a relaxing weekend there . You can go bird watching, build one of the largest outdoor sandcastles ( there’s an annual competition ), or just lounge along the coast.

Weatherford

As a die-hard fan of Rosemary & Thyme ( I’ve watched the series six times through ), I had to include Weatherford in this list of best small towns in Texas.

The idea of dreamy, British gardens peppered in one flat-land town was too good to be true. Of course, Weatherford is everything I imagined it would be and more. From the Doss Heritage and Cultural Center to The Malt Shop , there’s plenty to see, eat, and do in Weatherford.

You can easily make this Texas town the base of a cozy staycation-style weekend getaway ( I’d recommend staying overnight if you plan on exploring the Fort Worth area as well ).

This town, once simply known as Dallas to Austin road trip stopover , is quickly gaining popularity by foodies . 

If you’re craving Eastern European treats , look no further than Czech Stop or Slovacek’s in West, Texas.

Probably the most recognizable name on this list, Galveston is a popular summer small town in Texas.

If you love sandy stretches and drive up beaches ( Jamaica Beach ), this small town, a quick drive from Houston, makes the perfect weekend getaway.

Break up your beach days with a trip to Bishop’s Palace or the Strand Historic District .

Dotted with fishing piers, Rockport is a marine town known for its laid back vibe. Unlike most coastal towns in Texas, Rockport plays a historic angle .

From the Maritime Museum to Fulton Mansion , the sights around Rockport’s sandy beach compound make this Texas small town a family-friendly destination.

I was blown away by the number of art galleries. Although the works were ( far ) out of my price range, I loved seeing all the gorgeous oil paintings in-and-around town.

Corpus Christi

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this naval base draws huge crowds . But Corpus Christi isn’t a sit in the sand, toes in the water style beach.

More commercial and developed , Corpus Christi is perfect for beach-lovers who are looking to branch out from standard beach trips.

Although Corpus Christi is huge , most of the population resides in the metropolitan area not the coastal area, which is why I decided to include it in this list of small towns in Texas.

P.S. Check out the USS Lexington and Harbor Bridge whilst on your Corpus Christi trip!

Port Isabel

Port Isabel is a colorful small town in Texas . Known for its 75 stair lighthouse and historic museums, Port Isabel is a mix of historic and picture-perfect .

Ennis, Texas is a small town with a big Czech heritage .

At a surface level, Ennis looks like every other small town but during the spring, every field is ridden in bluebonnets . The grassy lawns turn into oceans of blue. The dry landscape revives with a painting-worthy energy.

Fredericksburg

If you’re a mom and pop shop lover, Fredericksburg is hands-down one of the best small towns in Texas.

It has a huge German touch . Think authentic German food and Texas-German style speech . The fascinating history of Fredericksburg is detailed at the Pioneer Museum (a must while you’re in town).

Granbury sits at the crossroads of old and new. With a pep in its step, Granbury is a one-of-a-kind town (and easily my favorite in Texas).

I mean, there are a lot of small towns that are easy to exhaust in one day. But Granbury is not one of them.

Stay here a week and you’ll find something new every single minute. Serving twenty-first-century experiences in a richly historic backdrop, Granbury reimagines the stereotypical notions of a small town.

Opt for a morning at Lake Granbury , an afternoon on the square (with a stop by The Doll Museum), and an evening at the Opera House .

Known as the Christmas capital of Texas, Grapevine definitely takes the holidays seriously .

In the winter, lights string the historic district . The mall is decorated in wreaths and giant red bows. Nativity scenes proudly sit on the yards of every other home.

If you’re looking for a cute small town in Texas to visit over end-of-the-year break , make a day trip to Grapevine.

P.S. Grapevine is right near the DFW Airport so if you have a stopover in Dallas and want to explore, this is one of the best small towns in Texas to quick start your Lone Star adventure!

For a town with a medium-sized population, Little Elm gets crowded quickly at night .

When the sun sets, the locals ( and visitors from nearby towns ) all flock to Little Elm Beach, a manmade mix of water and sand that sings a coastal tune. Whilst the restaurants are mostly chains, Little Elm is a breath of fresh air from the suburbs of DFW.

I haven’t had a chance to visit Marfa yet but I’m in love with the idea of this small town. Glamping tents, fine art installations, and celebrity-worthy hotels , Marfa’s most popular attractions make it an elegant boho-escape.

Everything from the Chinati Foundation to the elusive Marfa Lights is alluring. At times, Marfa seems unreal ( but in a way, that’s its charm ).

Rockwall is wrapped in East Coast beach vibes. With q uirky restaurants, spas, a romantic trail, and a charming theater , this Texas small town is perfect for couples looking for a quick getaway.

The lighthouse is the main draw. But along the boardwalk , you’ll also find a plethora of seafood eateries and sunset jams .

Terlingua is the town for off-road adventures . A short distance from Big Bend National Park, Terlingua is raw, slightly off-the-grid, and wild.

You’ll definitely want to make this a three-day trip at minimum ( extending to a short romp in Boquillas, Mexico ). And if you’re driving in ( you most likely will be ), note that Terlingua takes a while to get to from most of the big Texas cities.

The drive is a slow burn but it’s worth it.

The last Texas small town on this list is an Austin resident favorite . Wimberley is a quiet oasis filled with hidden nooks and crannies.

Exploring Wimberley is like winding through a maze of quirky attractions , each equally weird and wonderful.

If you plan on visiting Jacob’s Well ( the most popular stop ), you’ll want to make reservations as far in advance as possible ( at least two weeks ).

Did you enjoy this post on the best small towns in Texas? What are your favorite small towns in Texas?   Let me know in the comments below.

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

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18 comments.

I had never heard about this place before. Thanks for sharing! Saving this so I can have another read before visiting Texas (hopefully soon) 🙂

Awww…thanks! If you find yourself near Fort Worth, Weatherford is definitely a charming day trip! Wishing you a fabulous day, Marita! 🙂 xx – Anshula

OK, it is a very pleasant place. I enjoyed reading your post and the photos are lovely. I’m probably not going to visit, however, unless Texas comes up on my travel radar soon. And who knows, it might. Nice post.

Thanks, Christine! Weatherford is definitely one of those vague small towns that I somehow always seem to land up in, but I’m so glad I got to take you on a virtual tour! Warm wishes to your next adventure (Texas or otherwise!) 🙂 xx – Anshula

looks like an interesting place. Lots of green, which I love. great photograph

Yes! I was quite surprised by how green the landscape was considering this is North Texas. I’m so glad you enjoyed the photographs! Have a fabulous day, Isabella! 🙂 xx – Anshula

Wow, what beautiful gardens! So much character!

Hey, Kevin! Character is the word for gardens in Weatherford. I was surprised by how many there were in one small town and how each of them carried their own flavour! Have a great day! 🙂 xx – Anshula

This is so beautiful! I’ve never been anywhere in Texas, so this would be a great first visit!

-Clarissa @ The View From Here

Ooohh! I’d definitely suggest either Amarillo, San Antonio, Austin, or Dallas for a first visit to Texas! They all offer very different flavours! Amarillo is the stereotypical cowboy city. San Antonio is historic. Austin is plain weird (in a good ol’ Texas way). And Dallas has a little bit of everything! 🙂 xx – Anshula

I’ve honestly never heard of this quaint little town. Convinced I need to check it out, so charming!

Glad you enjoyed the tour, Shane! 🙂 xx – Anshula

Of those small towns in Texas, I can say that I have been to Canyon. Recently visited Palo Duro and can heartily recommend it. It was totally surprising to see the canyon in what seemed like the middle of nowhere.

I looked up more about Wimberly and I think this one would be my favorite to check out.! They have a wooded area with a swimming hole that looks excellent- Blue Hole Regional Park. I find myself wanting to break up big city visits with small towns more and more these days.

Didn’t know that the Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest in United States. I don’t know much about Texas all together to be honest, but that’s why it’s so lovely when I stumble upon posts like yours. Weatherford sure looks like a place to visit, would love to find out more and stroll around the garden.

That’s quite some list. I’ve never heard of most of these towns. You got me sold with these beautiful photos. The first one is just wow. Such nice flowers!

The list of coastal towns are very useful. Apart from that I have always been wanted to visit Canyon. Much informed post. Very helpful!!

I was really surprised to see and hear about some of the places on the list. For example, British gardens in Weatherford? Amazing. It just goes to show how much hidden treasures you can find in the US when you look at the smaller places off the beaten track!

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30 Charming Texas Small Towns

By: Author texasonly

Most people come to Texas to spend time in our popular, big cities like Austin , Dallas, and San Antonio.

While these are all great Texas vacation destinations, I would say you are missing the best part of the state, our Texas small towns!

Texas small towns are what makes our state so fabulous.

The small towns in Texas have so much to offer.

From quirky attractions to rolling vineyards dotted with wineries, Texas has it all.

Honesty, it would be amiss to not include some small towns on your Texas itinerary as many of these are some of the top places to visit in Texas !

We have included small towns in all regions of Texas, so we have you covered!

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links.  By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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Named Canyon because it is the gateway to Palo Duro Canyon , the second largest canyon in the United States.

Most people come to the town of Canyon to spend time in Palo Duro Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of Texas.

While in Canyon, can explore the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum , the largest history museum in Texas, and the Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

Granbury TX

One of the most charming small towns in Texas, Granbury will win your heart the moment you see it.

Made popular by Granbury Lake, and located just outside of Dallas- Fort Worth, Granbury is a great place to plan a weekend getaway.

Here you can walk around the historic downtown square, which is home to several boutique shops and restaurants.

In addition, there are a couple of great wineries in the downtown area that are well worth seeing as is City Beach Park on Granbury Lake, one of the best lakes in Texas .

There are so many things to do in Granbury, TX that you can stay busy for months!

Marfa is one of the small towns in Texas that is unlike any other!

Known as a thriving art community in west Texas, Marfa is a unique Texas town indeed!

Here you can see the art installations that are scattered throughout the town, including the infamous Prada Marfa Prada Store art installations.

Of course, many people come to Marfa to see the Marfa Lights.

You can decide for yourself when you see them if you think this is a naturally occurring phenomenon or visits from aliens.

It has been an ongoing debate for years!

South Padre Island

Head to the tip of Texas’ Gulf Coast region and you will find South Padre Island , one of the top spring break destinations in Texas and one of the best small towns on the beach.

This barrier island consists of more than 30 miles of beach, so you are sure to get your fix of the Texas Gulf Coast while visiting.

Padre Island is a great place for fishing, horseback riding on the beach, or just lounging around in the Texas sun.

I mean, it is one of the best beaches in Texas !

While here, don’t miss visiting the nearby small town of Port Isabel.

You can check out the Port Isabel Lighthouse and the Museum of Port Isabel.

Port Isabel is a great little town to check out!

Luckenbach TX

You will find one of the smallest small towns in Texas, Luckenbach, located a short drive west of Austin, TX, making this a popular road trip.

The official census showed Luckenbach to have as many as three people living here!

Made famous by the country music song titled, “Luckenbach, Texas,” this Texas town draws visitors from all over the United States to come and listen to some live music.

Also in the tiny town of Luckenbach are a general store and the Luckenbach post office.

Both of which, especially the post office, are a piece of Texas history.

Located along the iconic Route 66 in the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo is another one of the quirky small towns in Texas to make our list.

I say quirky because most people associate Amarillo with the infamous roadside attraction of Cadillac Ranch.

Cadillac Ranch is an art installation on Route 66 that consists of ten Cadillac cars being buried nose down in the desert.

Of course, you can grab a bottle of spray paint to leave your make on the Cadillacs as well.

While here, check out the Sixth Street Historic District and check out the shops, museums, and restaurants that call this small town home.

Once you see Bandera you will understand why this Texas small town is called the “Cowboy Capital of the World.”

Numerous dude ranches and guest ranches call Bandera home and love to welcome guests that want to experience the “cowboy lifestyle” for a little while, thus the “Cowboy Capital of the World”.

Bandera is also home to two State Natural Areas, including the Hill Country State Natural Area where which contains over 5,000 acres of plateaus and canyons.

Dripping Springs

If you are into visiting distilleries and wineries, then you have to add Dripping Springs to your list of small towns in Texas to visit!

Dripping Springs is home to several distilleries and wineries.

We love visiting Dripping Springs Vodka, Frog Pond Distillery, and Deep Eddy Vodka when visiting.

Of course, we can’t forget the wineries here.

You definitely want to check out Bell Springs Winery, Solaro Estate, and Driftwood Estate Winery.

In addition, there are also several boutique shops just waiting to welcome you as is Hill Country Olive Co.

Salado is one of the charming small towns to make our list. Visiting Salado truly makes you feel as though you have stepped back in time to the 19th century.

Here, you can tour the many places in Salado that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, like the George Washington Baines House and the Stagecoach Inn.

In all, there are 40 historical sites in this small town, as well as art galleries, and boutique shops!

Head about an hour east of Dallas, and you will find the town of Canton.

Canton is home to the world’s largest flea market where over 5,000 vendors sell a variety of items.

These items include everything from unique housewares to boutique clothing.

While in Canton you can also the shops that reside in this small west Texas town.

Be sure to check out the breweries and restaurants in Canton like Q & Brew at the Silver Spur Resort .

Canton is truly one of the best small towns in Texas for a laid-back, relaxing weekend of eating and shopping.

If you are an antique lover, then Round Top has to be on your list!

Antique enthusiasts have been visiting the twice a year antique show known as Round Top Antiques Show for over 50 years.

Here you can experience the largest antiquities market in Texas.

Of course, there are antique shops open in town year-round as well.

This town is proud of its tiny size. They even have a slog of “big-time small.”

You can explore the world’s smallest Catholic church, go to the region’s many wineries, and enjoy Round Top’s historic downtown while here.

Jefferson is one of the historic small Texas towns as Jefferson boasts almost 100 historic landmarks!

During your time in this Texas town, you can explore historic landmarks like the Excelsior House Hotel and The Jefferson Carnegie Library before taking in the Historic Jefferson Railway.

Of course, Jefferson also offers plenty of outdoor activities many of which can be enjoyed on Caddo Lake State Park or a day of boating on Lake O’ the Pines.

Read Next: 23 Fabulous Things to do in Corpus Christi

Hunt is one of the small towns in Texas that is often overlooked by visitors, but, I say, add Hunt to your list!

While in Hunt, you have to visit Criders, home to the Saturday night rodeo and dance.

The cool thing about Criders is that the dancehall is located under a giant oak tree that is incorporated into the design!

A popular swimming hole, Schumacher’s Crossing, and Stonehenge II, a replica of the Stonehenge site in Europe, should be on your list also.

Fredericksburg, TX

Fredericksburg , Texas is one of the oldest German settlements in Texas, numerous wineries, and Enchanted Rock State Park.

Enchanted Rock State Park is one of Texas’ popular state parks and a huge draw for Fredericksburg.

Here, you can hike, camp, and explore Enchanted Rock State Park while in this historic town.

While spending time in Fredericksburg, Texas, be sure to explore the many wineries in Fredericksburg and check out the great shopping area up and down its main street.

The town square has a cute little museum devoted to Fredericksburg’s German heritage also.

Nacogdoches

Nacogdoches started out as a Spanish settlement and was one of the oldest towns in Texas.

The Missionaries that settled here wanted to convert the American Indians to Christianity.

Today this east Texas city welcomes tourists to explore its historic downtown and learn about the town’s heritage.

At Stone Fort Museum, you can tour a fort that never served as a fort. Instead, this fort was a trading post, a private home, a jail, and even a saloon, but never a fort!

A trip to Nacogdoches offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to play disc golf, go fishing, try out horseback riding, or just walk around one of the many parks that call Nacogdoches home.

Terlingua is a former 19th-century mining community that many claimed had become a west Texas ghost town. Today, only about 50 people call Terlingua home!

Most people come to Terlingua to spend time in Big Bend National Park. Big Bend National Park is a huge national park that is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and more!

While in this area, don’t overlook the small town of Terlingua though.

You can enjoy some delicious Mexican food at the Chili Pepper Cafe and explore the quirky roadside attractions that are located in Terlingua.

This is one of the best small towns close to Big Bend.

Shiner is a great little town in The Lone Star State!

Shiner’s close proximity to Austin, San Antonio, and Houston makes it easy to do on a day trip from one of these larger cities.

A trip to Shiner has to include visiting Spoetzl Brewery , where Shiner beer is made!

While here, you can also see the Edwin Wolters Memorial Museum, shop for antiques, or enjoy being outside at Welhausen Park.

Marble Falls

Marble Falls is a great little town that is built around Lake Marble Falls, one of the Highland Lakes of Burnet County.

It is home to several great wineries like Flat Creek Estate and Spicewood Vineyards that are well worth a visit.

You will also want to head into town to shop at all of the fabulous boutique shops on Main Street before grabbing a slice of pie from Bluebonnet Cafe.

Bluebonnet Cafe has been serving up delicious pies in Marble Falls since 1929.

Of course, this is also a great are to explore the bluebonnets in Texas if you are visiting during the springtime.

The small town of Lockhart, TX has been designated the ‘Barbecue Capital of Texas’ thanks to the abundance of famous Texas barbecue you will find here.

If you are choosing to eat your way through the ‘Barbecue capital of Texas,’ then you have to eat at Black’s, Smitty’s, and Kreuz Market for sure.

When you’re ready to work off some of that delicious barbecue, you can head to Lockhart State Park.

Lockhart Park is the perfect place for an afternoon hike, a day of golf, or a refreshing swim to escape the Texas heat.

Port Aransas

Another one of the great coastal towns in The Lone Star State, Port Aransas should definitely be on your list of small Texas towns to visit.

Known for its sandy shores lining the Gulf Coast, Port Aransas is the perfect place to enjoy some downtime!

There are so many things to do in Port Aransas .

You can go fishing, try your hand at windsurfing, or go on a relaxing dolphin-watching cruise from this town.

Ennis, Texas was settled in 1872 when the Central and Houston Railroads emerged on this spot in Texas.

One of the biggest draws to the small town of Ennis is its annual Ennis Bluebonnet Festival.

This celebration welcomes the blooming of the Texas state flower, the bluebonnet, where guests can drive over 40 miles of mapped driving trails in Ennis to see the gorgeous flowers.

The town of Gruene, Texas dates back to 1872 when it was founded by Ernst Gruene, a German farmer.

While the downtown area is home to several cute shops, including a general store, that isn’t what draws people to Gruene.

Gruene is home to the famous Gruene Hall, a Texas dance hall that dates back to 1878 and is the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas!

The history of this dance hall includes performances from country music legends like George Strait and Willie Nelson.

Tubing the river is another popular activity in Gruene as is eating at the Gristmill Restaurant.

The Gristmill serves up great food and honors the history of the town as it is modeled after the original cotton gin that stood there before burning down in 1922.

The town of Boerne is located on the Guadalupe River in the Texas Hill Country. Visitors to Boerne love shopping at the Hill Country Mile which is the downtown historic district of the town.

Boerne has art galleries, eclectic home shops, boutiques, antique shops, and cute cafes for you to explore.

When you want to spend some time outdoors, you can relax at one of Boerne’s many breweries, distilleries, or wineries.

Boerne is also home to the Cibolo Nature Center and the Guadalupe Nation Forest, both of which offer walking and hiking trails for visitors to enjoy.

New Braunfels

Another great Texas Hill Country town in Texas is New Braunfel s.

People flock to New Braunfels to float the river and explore the quirky mix that makes up historic downtown New Braunfels.

In addition to floating the river, you can also play at Schlitterbahn Water Park and the beautiful Canyon Lake to keep cool during the hot Texas summers.

You will also find Natural Bridge Caverns and a great drive-in theatre in town.

Be sure to eat at Naegelin’s, the oldest Texas bakery, during your time here. Trust us, you will be glad you did!

The small town of Dublin is a great addition to your Texas itinerary.

Locals know Dublin for the delicious soda that was invented here at Dublin Bottling Works, Dr. Pepper.

You can tour the production facility, although they are no longer allowed to make Dr. Pepper.

During your visit, you can even make a soda creation of your own.

There is also a cool little museum celebrating the history of the beloved Lone Star State soda.

Brenham is a small town celebrated by Texans.

This town offers up the best ice cream in The Lone Star State, Blue Bell.

You can still visit the original Blue Bell Creameries and get a scoop of that delicious ice cream.

Take time to tour more of Brenham while you’re here.

The town has some cute murals, an antique carousel, and some fun little shops and restaurants to visit.

Read Next: 19 State Parks Near San Antonio

Johnson City

Johnson City is a great little Texas town full of history.

Here you can tour the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Site.

This historical site is the former home of the former President.

You can visit the home and the historical site, which is still a working ranch.

Alpine, Texas is where many visitors to Big Bend choose to stay but don’t forget to spend some time in Alpine also.

It is home to America’s most remote brewery, Big Bend Brewing Company. You can also see the Brewster County Courthouse and Jail and the Museum of the Big Bend.

Alpine is such a great little town in Texas and well worth a visit!

Wimberley is one of the best small towns in Texas for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Wimberley town square is the perfect place to start exploring.

Visit the art galleries, shops, and restaurants in this area before heading out to visit one of the region’s top attractions, the Blue Hole.

Wimberley’s Blue Hole is a popular swimming hole as is Texas’ Hamilton Pool.

Visit the wineries and distilleries in the area and take a drive down the Devil’s Backbone, a scenic drive in the Wimberley area.

Laredo, TX is a Texas border town that is the oldest border crossing in the state.

Sitting on the edge of the Rio Grande River, this town is worth a visit.

Check out the Laredo historic district and the many parks of the area.

There is also a great children’s museum, the Imaginarium, which offers students hands-on learning.

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About The Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel.  Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Anastasia Finch

Sunday 12th of May 2024

Thank you! I love tiny artsy towns, so I've added Marfa to my to-visit list.

Monday 13th of May 2024

That is so great! Thanks for checking it out, Anastasia!

15 Free Things to Do in San Antonio - Totally Texas Travel

Saturday 4th of May 2024

[…] 30 Charming Small Towns in Texas […]

Saturday 17th of June 2023

Great list! We visited Bandera last fall and really enjoyed it.

Anna Schaeffer

I can't believe I've still never been to Texas AT ALL. Looks so lovely! And omg the FOOD!

You totally need to come!

Dripping Springs looks amazing! And I've heard such great things about Fredericksburg.

30 Top-Notch Small Towns in Texas

If you desire to excape the hustle of the big city, visit one of the small towns in Texas for unique culture, friendly people, and layed back charm.

When you think of Texas, big cities like Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Houston come to mind, and are all great vacation spots. But the real gems are the small towns! There’s something special about the small towns in Texas, where it seems that life just moves a little bit slower. Everyone knows everyone and is willing to offer a helping hand. Southern towns, with their quiet charm and friendly people, will make you feel right at home. If you’re looking for a more laid-back kind of vacation this year, or just a great weekend getaway in Texas, one of these tiny towns will do the trick!

Tour Texas with Let’s Roam!

After you’ve decided on the ideal small-town destination for your trip, why not add a fun and engaging activity to your itinerary? Let’s Roam offers a wide range of scavenger hunts that can help you explore cities and towns in a more immersive way. Our scavenger hunts are designed to offer a fun and interactive experience while learning about the history, culture, and landmarks of your destination .

Top-Notch Small Towns in Texas

The Lone Star State is home to a host of adorable small towns that offer fantastic summer and winter holiday destinations, weekend getaways, and romantic escapes. For families seeking beaches and relaxation, the fishing towns along the Gulf Coast are ideal. Couples looking for a romantic hideaway can enjoy the charm of Texas Hill Country’s wineries. For those interested in history and adventure, the Old Wild West towns are where it’s at. With all these options, a road trip through small-town Texas is an epic way to explore the state. Let’s find your perfect community!

Nestled in the heart of a remote desert landscape, Marfa may be a small town with a population of 1,600, but its artistic and cultural significance is much larger. Back in the 1970s, artist Donal Judd moved to Marfa and transformed the town, which is now widely acclaimed for its galleries and annual film and music festivals. The town also boasts some peculiar attractions, such as the popular art installation, Prada Marfa, a faux luxury shoe store that draws photographers from far and wide. Additionally, the Marfa Lights have made the town a hotspot for UFO enthusiasts and those intrigued by extraterrestrial life.

2. Fredericksburg

With its distinctive German heritage and a myriad of attractions, Fredericksburg is undoubtedly one of the top small towns in Texas. Located about 70 miles north of San Antonio, Fredericksburg boasts a charming character that draws visitors from far and wide. This delightful town is famous for its superb wineries, exciting shopping options, antique shops, and the stunning pink granite rock formation known as Enchanted Rock, which offers scenic hiking trails. Get to know the little town on our “ Wilkommen to Fredericksburg ” scavenger hunt! Fredericksburg also features several lively festivals, delicious German restaurants, and multiple sites that have earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

Aptly named for its location as the gateway to the Palo Duro Canyon, Canyon is an interesting historical town in a jaw-dropping setting. Palo Duro is the second-largest canyon in the United States, also known as the Grand Canyon of Texas. In addition to the natural wonder, Canyon has plenty to offer in terms of cultural and historical exploration. The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum , the largest history museum in Texas, is a must-visit for history buffs, while the Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the area.

4. Dripping Springs

The downtown area is named after the beautiful Dripping Springs. This natural wonder is a limestone ledge that continually drips water into a nearby stream. If you’re a fan of exploring distilleries and wineries, then Dripping Springs should definitely be on your list of small towns to visit in Texas! The town boasts numerous distilleries like Dripping Springs Vodka, Frog Pond Distillery, and Deep Eddy Vodka. Oenophiles can choose from Bell Springs Winery, Solaro Estate, and Driftwood Estate Winery.

5. New Braunfels

New Braunfels is another charming town in the Texas Hill Country that is popular among outdoor enthusiasts. Grab a tube and cooler, and join the crowds of people floating down the Comal River, When you’ve got crinkly and you’re done with the water, head for a hike at Natural Bridge Caverns. Finish off your evening at the delightful Stars & Stripes drive-in theatre. No visit to New Braunfels would be complete without trying the delicious treats at Naegelin’s, which happens to be the oldest bakery in Texas. With a huge selection of tasty treats, it’s the perfect place to indulge after a long active day!

Shiner is a great little town in the Lone Star State, which is home to a mere 2,000 people! Most Texans are undoubtedly familiar with Shiner. Shiner Beer, a staple in all Texas grocery stores and dive bars, is the town’s pride and joy. As such, the most popular activity in Shiner is touring the Spoetzl Brewery, the home of Shiner Beer. It’s worth extending your visit to check out the adorable downtown area after you’ve completed your brewery tour. You can also see the Edwin Wolters Memorial Museum, shop for antiques, or enjoy being outside at Welhausen Park. Centrally located between Austin, San Antonio, and Houston, Shiner is an easy day trip from one of these larger cities.

San Antonio is a beautiful city and one of the best ways to see the city is by going on one of our “ four great scavenger hunts and tours in San Antonio .”

The Irish Capital of Texas is two hours southwest of Dallas and two hours northwest of Austin, making it another easy day trip or weekend getaway.  Dublin is the birthplace of Dr. Pepper! Dublin Bottling Works and Old Doc Soda shop sadly don’t bottle it anymore, but you can still tour the facility. Wander through the cute shops downtown or even take a tour of a local farm! 

Dublin is also home to the Rodeo Heritage Museum, which showcases the origins of modern rodeo and the cowboys and cowgirls who performed in them. The museum also highlights the company that provided rodeo stock and performers for some of the most significant rodeos in the world for a period of 22 years. Dublin is also home to the Ben Hogan Museum, which is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts. The museum, located in Hogan’s childhood home, pays homage to the man and his golfing legacy.

8. Luckenbach

Made famous by the country music song titled, “Luckenbach, Texas,” this Texas town draws visitors from all over the United States to experience its live music shows. Luckenbach dates back to 1970 when it was founded by Hondo Crouch as a joke. Despite its tiny population of just thirteen people, Luckenbach is full of fun attractions. If you’re looking to experience an Old West ghost town, then Luckenbach is the place for you.

The town is renowned for its country music scene, and hundreds of people gather here to attend concerts on any given weekend. Downtown consists of a post office, the general store, a working saloon, and the main draw—a Texas dance hall. It’s only an hour’s drive north of San Antonio, making it an excellent destination for a day trip.

9. Granbury

Granbury has been named the “Best Historic Small Town in America” by USA Today, and its Historic Downtown Square is the star attraction. The buildings surrounding the square date back to the late 1800s, and the original brick paving still adorns the streets. The town’s centerpiece is the 1893 courthouse, which is still active. Granbury’s rich cultural heritage and gracious southern hospitality make visitors feel right at home. For a glimpse of local wildlife and flora, visit the Acton Nature Center. To learn about the Wild West’s iron horses, stop by the Granbury Historic Railroad Depot. Then, take some time to relax by the peaceful Lake Granbury. It’s conveniently located just an hour and 15 minutes from Dallas and 48 minutes from Fort Worth.

10. Johnson City

Located approximately 60 miles north of San Antonio, Johnson City is a truly historic Texas town that offers something for everyone. History buffs will appreciate the town’s connection to President Lyndon B. Johnson. The “Texas White House” and the LBJ National Park, the former presidential residence, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

For those who prefer outdoor activities, Johnson City is also home to Pedernales Falls State Park, which features hiking trails and a picturesque river, making it the perfect place to escape the heat during the summer months. Explore the town’s charming square, which boasts a variety of antique and specialty shops, as well as Pecan Street Brewing and Garrison Distillery. With its small-town charm and diverse range of attractions, Johnson City is one of the best destinations for experiencing authentic Texas culture.

Nestled in the Texas Hill Country, and situated along the Guadalupe River, Boerne is a must-visit small town for nature enthusiasts. Its convenient location makes it an ideal day trip destination from several Texas cities. Visitors to Boerne can explore the Hill Country Mile, the town’s charming main street historic district, which is a shopper’s paradise filled with art galleries, unique home shops, antique stores, boutiques, and cafes. Nature lovers will find plenty of attractions to keep them entertained, including the Cibolo Nature Center, watersports on the Guadalupe River, and hiking in Guadalupe State Park. As the day winds down, tourists can unwind at Boerne’s Random Beer Garden.

12. Port Aransas

If you’re seeking a perfect seaside experience that showcases the charm of Texas, head on over to Port Aransas. This town is situated on Mustang Island, boasting 18 miles of sun-kissed sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, conveniently located about three hours from San Antonio and just 45 minutes from Corpus Christi. Once you’re there, swimming and windsurfing at Port Aransas Beach are the name of the game. Birders will want to explore the Leonabelle Turn Bull Center and its birding tours through the wetlands. Alternatively, you can pitch a tent at Mustang Island State Park for a rustic camping experience. One of the great coastal towns in The Lone Star State, Port Aransas should definitely be on your list of small Texas towns to visit.

The famous beach town of Corpus Christi is just next door! Check out our “ Sparking City by the Sea ” scavenger hunt for a fun way to explore the hometown of Selena!

13. Port Isabel

If you’re looking for a charming and historic small town to visit in Texas, Port Isabel should definitely be on your list. Located on the southern tip of Texas, Port Isabel is a vibrant coastal community that offers a range of exciting sights. One of the top attractions in Port Isabel is the Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site, which offers visitors a climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The museum at the base of the lighthouse also provides fascinating insights into the town’s rich maritime history.

Another must-see attraction is the Treasures of the Gulf Museum, which showcases artifacts related to the natural history and culture of the Gulf of Mexico. The museum is a great place to learn about the area’s diverse flora and fauna, as well as its history of piracy and exploration. For outdoor enthusiasts, Port Isabel offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. The Laguna Madre Nature Trail is a particularly popular destination, offering scenic views of the local wetlands and wildlife.

14. Marble Falls

Marble Falls, located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, is a delightful small town that packs a big punch. With its picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Marble Falls, rich history, and lively arts community, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in hiking, fishing, and swimming. For biking and ATV enthusiasts, Hidden Falls Adventure Park offers the perfect opportunity to get off the beaten path and explore the rugged terrain. Shoppers can peruse the various shops and galleries in the downtown area. No visit to Marble Falls would be complete without indulging in the renowned pies at Bluebonnet Cafe. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Marble Falls is a town that truly has it all.

15. Wimberley

Nestled in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, Wimberley is a quaint small town that boasts a thriving arts community. Explore the numerous art galleries, catch a performance by the Wimberley Players, or browse the various boutiques and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Wimberley’s proximity to numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as several nearby lakes and rivers perfect for swimming, fishing, and canoeing. One of the town’s most beloved attractions is the Blue Hole, a natural spring-fed swimming hole that maintains a refreshing temperature of around 68 degrees, making it an ideal spot to beat the summer heat. With its diverse range of attractions, from arts and culture to outdoor recreation, Wimberley is a small town that offers something for everyone.

16. Terlingua

For those seeking a one-of-a-kind adventure, Terlingua is a must-visit ghost town located in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert. Originally established in the 1880s as a mining town, Terlingua later gained fame for its location along the Rio Grande and proximity to Big Bend National Park. While Terlingua Ghost Town was once a bustling community with over 2,000 residents, the miners left in the early 1900s, and the town was largely abandoned. Today, visitors can wander through the deserted mines, explore the historic cemetery, or venture out on a hike through the rugged surrounding desert. Terlingua offers a unique glimpse into the Wild West and a chance to step back in time to a simpler era.

17. Jefferson

Established in 1836, Jefferson was one of the first towns in the Lone Star State and even briefly served as the capital of the Republic of Texas. Today, Jefferson is renowned for its picturesque downtown area, filled with quaint shops, delightful restaurants, and beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. Take a stroll and marvel at Jefferson’s many historic buildings, such as the Jefferson Carnegie Library and the Excelsior House Hotel.

For those interested in history, a visit to the Jefferson Historical Museum is a must. The museum features exhibits on everything from early Texas transportation to the town’s role in the Civil War and offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past. Nature enthusiasts will also find plenty to love in Jefferson. The nearby Caddo Lake State Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bald eagles, alligators, and herons, and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. One of the most popular attractions in Jefferson is the Historic Jefferson Railway, which takes visitors on a scenic tour through the piney woods and along the Big Cypress Bayou. You’ll learn about the history of the railroad and the important role it played in the town’s development. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its natural beauty and unique attractions, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Jefferson.

18. Bandera

Bandera earns its nickname as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” This charming small town is home to numerous dude ranches that offer visitors the chance to experience the authentic cowboy lifestyle. In addition to horseback riding and other ranch activities, visitors enjoy hiking, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits. Bandera is also surrounded by intense natural beauty, including two State Natural Areas. The Hill Country State Natural Area covers over 5,000 acres of plateaus and canyons, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. If you are looking to get away from the hustle of the city and experience a slower pace, then book a trip to Bandera.

Nestled in West Texas, Alpine is a charming college town that offers visitors a unique blend of history and culture. The town is home to Sul Ross State University and boasts a picturesque historic downtown with colorful street art and quirky attractions such as the desk on Hancock Hill. It is home to America’s most remote brewery, Big Bend Brewing Company. You can also see the Brewster County Courthouse and Jail and the Museum of the Big Bend. With its proximity to both Marfa and Big Bend National Park, Alpine is an ideal base for exploring the area and enjoying all that the region has to offer.

Gruene, a charming town located in Comal County, an hour’s drive from Austin, was established in 1872 by German settler Ernst Gruene who was engaged in cotton production. Despite falling from its past glory, the town has managed to retain its rich history and distinctive culture, which can be experienced in the Gruene Historic District.

Strolling down Main Street, tourists can witness Victorian-style architecture, housing antique shops, boutiques, and ice cream parlors. The town is home to the oldest dance hall in Texas-Gruene Hall, dating back to the 19th century, where country music legends such as George Strait and Willie Nelson have performed. Today, visitors still relish live country music from popular artists. The Gristmill Restaurant, located in the original cotton gin, is another prominent attraction that serves delectable food while paying homage to the town’s heritage. Moreover, visitors can indulge in rafting, fishing, or river tubing on the Guadalupe River or Comal River.

21. Schulenburg

Schulenburg is renowned for its exquisitely painted churches, each adorned with detailed interiors. Built primarily in the 19th century by German and Czech immigrants, these painted churches are considered a historical gem of Texas. While Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, also known as the Queen of Painted Churches, is a must-visit, St. John the Baptist Church and St. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church are also worth exploring. The Stanzel Model Aircraft Museum, owned by the Stanzel family, who was inducted into the Model Aircraft Hall of Fame, is a fascinating attraction as well. Visitors can also treat their taste buds to some delectable German cuisine at City Meat Market or Mama’s at Sengelmann Hall, where they can savor some of the best Schnitzel and Sausage that money can buy.

22. Driftwood

Driftwood, Texas, may be a tiny town with less than 200 residents, but it’s famous for one thing. It’s home to the renowned Salt Lick BBQ, one of the top barbecue joints in the state. Located close to popular Dripping Springs, you can plan a day trip to explore both small towns and even add in a visit to the famous Hamilton Pool.

23. Georgetown

Georgetown, located just 30 miles north of Austin, is a vibrant community that offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Georgetown Square is a top attraction, featuring a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. The Williamson Museum provides fascinating insights into the history of Williamson County and Georgetown, while the Inner Space Cavern offers the opportunity to explore a network of underground caves that date back millions of years. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the town’s parks and world-class golf courses, taking a dip in Georgetown’s Blue Hole (distinct from Wimberley’s Blue Hole), and attending the renowned Red Poppy Festival.

24. Gonzales

Renowned as the birthplace of the Texas Revolution, Gonzales’ town motto is, “Come and take it!” Don’t mind if we do! Located just over an hour from Austin and about 2.5 hours from Houston, Gonzales is easily accessible. History enthusiasts can explore the Gonzales Memorial Museum, Living History Farm, Pioneer Village, and Gonzales County Jail Museum, which provide insight into Texas and frontier history. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities at nearby Palmetto State Park, and savor the cuisine of local restaurants, such as Gonzales Food Market, Baker Boys BBQ, and Cow Palace.

25. Nacogdoches

As one of the oldest towns in Texas, Nacogdoches was originally a Spanish settlement founded by missionaries who aimed to convert the local Native American population to Christianity. Today, this charming East Texas city invites visitors to explore its historic downtown and learn about its rich heritage. At Stone Fort Museum, tourists can tour a fort that never actually served as a fort, but instead functioned as a trading post, private residence, jail, and even a saloon. Don’t miss the Old University Building, the oldest continuously operating university building in Texas. The Sterne-Hoya House Museum and Library offer fascinating insights into the town’s past, while the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden is a stunning display of colorful flowers and foliage. With its friendly locals, beautiful scenery, and rich history, Nacogdoches is a delight!

26. Lockhart

Lockhart is known as the “Barbecue Capital of Texas” due to the plethora of famous barbecue joints you can find here. To experience the town’s reputation fully, you must visit Black’s, Smitty’s, and Kreuz Market for their legendary meats. After indulging in the delectable cuisine, you can head to Lockhart State Park to burn off some calories. The park offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, and swimming to help you beat the Texas heat.

With a rich history dating back to 1872, Ennis is perhaps best known for its annual Ennis Bluebonnet Festival, which celebrates the blooming of the Texas state flower, the bluebonnet. During this festival, visitors can explore over 40 miles of mapped driving trails throughout Ennis to witness the beautiful blooms. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area in mid to late April.

28. Uncertain

Nestled in the northeast corner of Texas, on the banks of Caddo Lake, you’ll find the charming town of Uncertain. Home to stunning cypress trees that create a beautiful backdrop, Uncertain is popular for water-based activities such as boat tours and lakeside hiking trails. Experience the serenity and splendor of Caddo Lake through canoeing or kayaking on specifically designated Texas Paddling Trails, which showcase the distinctive flora and fauna of this exceptional ecosystem. For a truly unique experience, consider renting a cabin from Moonglow Lodges. These fully wooden huts are perched on stilts right in the lake and offer a one-of-a-kind accommodation option.

29. Fort Davis

Visit the Davis Mountains to witness breathtaking panoramic views of the Chihuahua Desert. Located in West Texas, the nearest major city is El Paso, which is approximately three hours away. While here, indulge in bird watching as Fort Davis is home to 17 of the 18 native hummingbird species. Additionally, embark on a hiking or camping trip in the Davis Mountains, or opt for a scenic cycling tour along the “Scenic Loop.” The town also offers glider flying, the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Gardens, and Fort Davis National Historic Site to further enrich your experience.

30. Brenham

Texans are familiar with Brenham, primarily for its association with the original Blue Bell Creameries, where you can visit and indulge your ice cream addiction. Once you’re done exploring Blue Bell, there’s still plenty to see in Brenham. Take a leisurely stroll through the walkable downtown center, adorned with beautiful murals, or visit a nearby lavender farm to relax amidst fragrant blooms. For a dose of history, tour the gorgeous Giddings Stone Mansion, or take the kids for a ride on the working antique carousel.

Closing Thoughts

These 30 small towns in Texas offer the visitor a chance to relax, enjoy nature, and slow down for a bit. With laid-back vibes, interesting historic cores, vibrant art scenes, and delectable Southern cuisine, a visit to this side of Texas is truly a treat! Pack up the car. Dot these babies on the map, and enjoy your road trip through the tiny towns of Texas.

Considering visiting small towns in other states take a look at our “ The Best Small Towns to Visit in Every State “ for some ideas of where to start.

For some truly awesome accommodations for your Texas road trip, check out “ The Most Unique Places to Stay in Texas .”

Frequently Asked Questions

Boerne is home to an incredible shopping district known as the Hill Country Mile and is one of the most walkable small towns in Texas.

Georgetown has one of the most beautiful town squares in Texas with its farm-fresh restaurants and historic buildings.

Historic Fredericksburg is considered one of the prettiest towns in Texas. Another is Dripping Springs with its limestone ledge waterfall.

Port Aransas is a charming beach town and a great day trip from Corpus Christi . Port Isabel is also a charming beach town that offers beautiful beaches and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

Canyon , located near the Palo Duro Canyon, has beautiful trails to trek through. New Braunfels is another charming town where you can float down the Comal River or visit the Natural Bridge Caverns.

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15 Most Charming Small Towns in Texas

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on November 3, 2023

The second largest state in America, Texas is positively huge. The landscape changes dramatically throughout the expanses of the Lone Star State, from deserts and scrublands to swamps, pine forests, and mountains.

So do the small towns of Texas; from Spanish-influenced former Mexican villages to whole areas founded and settled by German immigrants, the culture of Texas lies in mines, cowboys and a whole lot of nature to explore and conquer. Get ready for some long, beautiful road trips and some big, tasty plates of food: Texas awaits.

15. Port Isabel [SEE MAP]

Boasting the only town in Texas with its very own lighthouse, Port Isabel is the place to go for warm sea breezes on a charming backdrop. The town dates back to the 1700s when Mexican ranchers settled a small village here which was abandoned and reclaimed by the US.

Lighthouse Square is a quaint area of town to explore, full of quirky shops stocking sea-themed souvenirs, as well as little restaurants. There’s also Pirate’s Landing Fishing Pier, which grabs the title of the longest pier in the state. Pirate’s Landing Restaurant nearby is set on an actual pirate-esque ship and serves up tasty seafood.

14. Shiner [SEE MAP]

Set in Lavaca County, Shiner developed as a town from humble beginnings. Originally, there was just a trading depot here, but things began growing when a post office was set up in 1885. The town originally attracted German and Czech immigrants; this heritage is definitely something that has rubbed off on the town’s cultural landscape.

Sausage and polka aside, most notably that would be in terms of beer. Shiner is famous – maybe just with beer-drinkers – throughout the US; beers carrying the ‘Shiner’ brand are sold in 43 states. Tours of the Spoetzl Brewery, America’s fourth-largest, are a beer lover’s dream.

13. Marble Falls [SEE MAP]

This central Texan town, founded in the late 19th century, is home to the Blue Bonnet Cafe – famous throughout Texas for serving what are regularly touted as the state’s best pies. But laid back Marble Falls is also well known for being a mecca for adventure sports enthusiasts.

Nearby, there’s the Hidden Falls Adventure Park, where you can get let loose on an ATV or 4X4 to explore the rugged terrain and waterfalls that attract adrenaline junkies and tourists from far and wide. Back in town, there are tons of galleries to explore if getting out into nature doesn’t float your boat.

12. Alpine [SEE MAP]

Way out in west Texas, Alpine is a key hub in the state’s Big Bend region. It’s a relatively large town to explore, packed full of things to do. From nightlife to America’s most remote brewery, and museums like the Museum of the Big Bend and the historic Brewster County Courthouse and Jail (1888), there’s lots to see in town.

For great views, hike up nearby Hancock Hill, or drive west out of town and head through Paisano Pass Volcano. It’s also easy to reach Big Bend National Park from here.

11. Llano [SEE MAP]

The capital of the eponymous county of Llano, this town is filled with historic buildings. There’s the 1881 Southern Hotel, the Badu Building, and the impressive Llano County Courthouse and Jail. You can also soak up some more history and heritage at the Llano County Museum, which is set inside the vintage fittings and fixtures of a former drugstore.

Just opposite is the Historic Railyard District. If you’ve had your fill of history, head south to explore the Llano Uplift, which is full of eerie rock formations like Enchanted Mountain.

10. Bandera [SEE MAP]

Founded by Polish immigrants, Bandera is home to one of the oldest churches in Texas – St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, built in 1887 and boasting some beautiful artwork. Though other historic buildings like the Bandera County Courthouse dot the town, it’s much more famous as “The Cowboy Capital of the World”. That’s because of the amount of cowboys and ranches that are still active in the area. You can even kit yourself out in cowboy garb at the Bandera General Store. The Frontier Times Museum shows what life was like in 1920s Bandera.

9. Marfa [SEE MAP]

The Presidio County Courthouse in Marfa, dating back to 1886, isn’t just an impressive slice of history – you can actually get to the top of the courthouse itself for an amazing view of the whole town. Really though, Marfa is known for its art, particularly of the minimalist kind.

New York artist Donald Judd moved here in 1971, bought a couple of hangars, and the rest is history. Those hangars now make up the Chinati Foundation, where you can head for a slice of kooky art. But for true kookiness, hit up Prada Marfa: a “pop architectural land art project” that looks just like a Prada store.

8. Rockport [SEE MAP]

Rockport is a fun coastal town where you’ll get to fish, go out on a boat, go swimming, waterskiing, and get your fill of seafood, of course. It’s not just the sea that makes this Arkansas County town so attractive, though; Rockport boasts a beautiful heritage district where you can wander around marveling at historic buildings, like the Queen Anne style Hoopes-Smith House and the Fulton Mansion.

For even more ancient history, get yourself over to Goose Island State Park, where you’ll find The Big Tree. At anywhere between 1,000 – 2,000 years old, this is one of the largest living oak trees in the USA.

7. Luckenbach [SEE MAP]

Nestled in Texas Hill Country, you could be forgiven for thinking that tiny Luckenbach has anything going for it. It really is small. Just under 20 kilometers from the much, much larger Fredericksburg, Luckenbach takes up just over nine acres.

There are some quaint old buildings to admire here, like the Luckenbach Post Office (1850) and the former general store – which doubled as a saloon. Since the early 1970s, Luckenbach has had an affinity with country music and, if you’re a fan, you should definitely catch a show here.

6. Granbury [SEE MAP]

This northern Texas town features an iconic and historic town square, filled with shops, restaurants, and bars – the perfect place to start a day or an evening of fun in Granbury. There’s a lot of history too. The Hood County Courthouse in the square still even has its own hand-wound clock dating all the way back to the 1800s.

Throughout Granbury, there are a number of late 19th century houses to discover, like the Daniel-Harris Home and the Ashton House. It’s said that John Wilkes Booth, who assassinated Abraham Lincoln, fled to Granbury and lived under a different name. Apparently, a man claimed to be Jesse James is buried in Granbury Cemetery.

5. Terlingua [SEE MAP]

The desert town of Terlingua is located close to the Mexican border and is famous for its ghost town. Once a former mining colony, the town’s population dwindled and it was abandoned altogether. You can even stay in the former Perry Mansion, which looks derelict from the outside but is well furnished within!

A local hangout is the Terlingua Trading Company, where you can browse the quirky shop and sip a beer on the porch. Terlingua’s proximity to the Big Bend National Park makes it the perfect jumping off point for exploring all the natural wonders on offer here.

4. Wimberley [SEE MAP]

Located in Hays County, Wimberley is a small, chilled-out town that’s great for a remote retreat. There are some good opportunities to soak up the natural environment that this region is blessed with.

You can take a drive down the Devil’s Backbone – a scenic slice of highway – get some fantastic views by walking the 218 steps up Prayer Mountain, or simply cool off at the Blue Hole – one of the nicest swimming holes in Texas. The clue is in the name: the water is a mesmerizing shade of blue!

3. Jefferson [SEE MAP]

Tourists flock to Jefferson because it’s a beautiful place to visit. First of all, there are a whole lot of historic buildings in town – such the imposing Old Post Office, Excelsior House, and the Jefferson Carnegie Library, as well as almost all the buildings of the downtown area.

Secondly, there are also bayous to explore; you can head to Caddo State Park to do just that. Jefferson also holds the title of “The Most Haunted Small Town in Texas” – you should go to The Grove to see why.

2. Gruene [SEE MAP]

For all things old, vintage and antique, you should definitely make your way to Gruene. Much of this town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a definitively historic place to wander around.

You can soak up the ambiance at the Gruene Hall – one of the oldest open-air dance halls in Texas – or even stay in a slice of the town’s heritage yourself at the Greune Family Home, an utterly charming Victorian-style building that dates back to 1872. When the tourist crowds get too much, head out of town and watch the Guadalupe River surge by.

1. Fredericksburg [SEE MAP]

The home of German culture in America, Fredericksburg was founded in 1846 by German immigrants and named after Prince Frederick of Prussia. For fans of beer, you’re in luck; there are a few places to enjoy a stein or two of the good stuff in Fredericksburg. These include the Altdorf Biergarten, the Fredericksburg Brewing Company – where you can partake in a tour – and the Auslander, which is also a restaurant where you can dig into pretzels and sausages.

Fredericksburg Historic District is a great place to learn about, and admire, the heritage of this interesting Texas town.

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June 10, 2019 at 9:35 am

Georgetown is north of Austin and south of Belton.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Texas

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Texas

Texas is the second largest state in the U.S. and it takes this ranking seriously.  You’ll find big cities, big portions, big hats, big houses, big everything when you visit.  But just like in smaller states, the real heart of Texas can be found in the small towns and natural landscapes scattered throughout.

Whether you’re travelling along the Gulf of Mexico or through major cities like Dallas or Houston you won’t want to miss at least a few stopovers in some of these unique and charming small towns.

1. Granbury

If you’re looking for the American old west and outlaw history, Granbury is a great place to start.  Most believe that Jesse James, a famous outlaw of the late 19th century is buried in Missouri, but locals in Granbury are adamant that he’s actually buried there.

Be sure to check out the Granbury Opera house (established just after the Texas revolution) and the Revolver Brewing company while you’re at it.  Go a little further back in time when you visit Dinosaur World, complete with life sized replicas of some of the creatures whose fossils have been found nearby.

2. Round Top

Between Houston and Austin is the well-loved town of Round Top.  Texans know it for the antique show, incredible art scene, and mouth-watering pies that you can only get at Royers Café.  The entire town is about 600 acres total and a whopping 100 inhabitants, but don’t count Round Top out.

Each summer you can attend performances at the Festival Hill music institute which attracts musicians from across the country and the Shakespeare at Windedale festival.

3. Jefferson

B&B-ers will love a visit to the Bed and Breakfast Capital of East Texas.  Jefferson is located close to the Louisiana border and has a population of just over 2,000 people.  Thanks to its proximity to Lake O’ the Pines and Caddo Lake, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had here. You can take a lake tour, steam paddleboat trip, and, of course, great fishing.  Visiting Jefferson is a bit like stepping back in time to the mid-19th century.

The town offers horse-drawn carriage rides, ghost tours, and antiquing.  When it was first founded, the town was a thriving river port and many of the tourist activities you can experience today are centred on this foundation.

4. Nacogdoches

Originally a Spanish settlement, Nacogdoches is the oldest city in Texas. Missionaries who hoped to convert American Indians settled in the area and the blending of cultures grew naturally into the town it is today. In addition to being difficult to spell and pronounce, Nacogdoches is an historical town.

Visitors enjoy the Stone Fort, Old Stone Fort Museum, Ruby Mize Azalea Garden, the Oak Grove Cemetery, hiking trails that were once trade routes, Camp Tonkawa, the Durst Taylor House, Sterne-Hoya House, Millard’s Crossing Village, the Old University Building, and the Hotel Fredonia.

But if you’re arriving for the first time, be sure to make the Historic Town Center and Visitor Center your first stop. Wander down the red brick streets and fall in love with southern hospitality. Bring a camera!

5. Rockport

Founded as little more than a slaughterhouse in the late 19th century, Rockport has grown into a popular tourist attraction thanks to it the fantastic beach there.  Local officials know that the beach is a big draw and so a lot of resources are put into maintenance and services.  Making it a truly spectacular beach experience.

The Fulton Mansion and Education History Center is a 19th century building that was considered quite innovative for its time – including things like indoor plumbing and central air. The Texas Maritime Museum allows guests to explore the history of the area from the Spanish settlement to the process of searching for offshore oil.

Be sure to check out the Rockport Center for the Arts, Connie Hagar Wildlife Refuge, Oysterfest, the Windmill in the Tree, and the Wine Festival.

Just between El Paso and Dallas sits Pecos.  Known throughout Texas for its wonderful heritage, its cantaloupes, and its most famous resident – American Folk Hero Pecos Bill.

But what Texans really know about the town is that it hosts the biggest and best rodeo in the country. In fact, history has it that the very first rodeo was held here in 1883.

7. Wimberley

Wimberly is small, but it is not quiet.  Every Friday, locals turn out for the Bluegrass Jam.  Held in a vacant parking lot – full of small town charm – the gathering is informal and everyone who loves music and can pick an instrument is welcome to join in.  The part goes late into the night and defines the tiny town. If you’d like some dinner to go with you Jam, try sitting on the porch at Ino’z.

You’ll also love the Blue Hole – a lovely swimming spot at Jacob’s Well.  There are great trees with ropes tied to them for swinging over and into the water. Other outdoor activities include hiking, horseback riding, camping, and fishing.

This is a tiny but gorgeous town sometimes referred to as the Best Art Town in Texas.  With just about 2,000 people there, Salado has managed to retain its historical relevance.

You can stay in the Stagecoach Inn – the oldest hotel in town, visit the old college, which briefly opened its doors in the 1860’s, tour the George Washington Baines House – which is one of 20 Salado locations listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  And the first entry on the Texas Natural Landmarks is Salado Creek – a big point of pride for locals. But the best part of Salado is the atmosphere.  You’ll feel like you’re moving through the American Old West.

Small but internationally known in the art world, Marfa is tucked away in the desert of West Texas.  It’s a bit out of the way to reach, but almost every list you find about Texas will tell you: do not miss it.  Scattered about town are fantastic installations by Dan Flavin, Donald Judd, and more.  Packed with galleries and fine dining, Marfa is a cultural event from dawn until dusk.

After dinner you get to judge for yourself whether the Marfa Lights are a natural phenomenon or the work of aliens – an ongoing community debate since the late 19th century! Have your fill of museums, wineries, and the Cowboy Hall of Fame. Part of the Texas Big Bend National Park is in Marfa. The park has documented over 60 species of cactus and is a great location for backpacking.  Guided backpacking and birdwatching tours are available weekly.

10. Schulenburg

Originally settled by Austrian and German pioneers, Schulenberg is home to the famous painted churches – buildings with stunning architecture, interesting history, ornate statuary, and unbelievably detailed design. It goes by any number of names, including “railroad town,” “musician town,” and “halfway to everywhere.” Travelers also have a lot of fun at the Von Minden Hotel and Theatre– it’s supposedly haunted.

If you really want to experience some fun, don’t miss the Texas Polk Music Museum. There is so much to see in Schulenburg that the local chamber of commerce provides docents who will join you in your bus or car in order to give you a personalized tour of the town.

In central-south Texas you’ll find a series of lovely limestone hills.  In the middle of those, you’ll find Hunt.  It’s the landscape that makes Hunt worthy of a visit.  The north and south forks of the Guadalupe River meet here to create remarkable landscapes and great recreational areas at every turn.  Stunning lakes, rivers, and hills combine to make this a nature lovers dream.

Many visitors choose to rent a home along the river or tuck in at a resort and stay for a while.  Be sure to visit the Kerr Wildlife Management Area, Crider’s Rodeo and Dance Hall where cowboys put on a show on summer nights, and the Stonehenge II – a replica of the original built on the north fork of the river. Roughly 60% as tall as the original, the site also has replicas of the mysterious statues found on Easter Island.

Canyon is named for its functionality.  It serves as the primary gateway to the Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the U.S.  Most Texan’s call it the Grand Canyon of Texas, and it is every bit as impressive as it sounds. Archaeological digs have found evidence that American Indians once inhabited the place – thus giving it recognition as a U.S. National Landmark.

The small panhandle town of Canyon is not only home to the state park where Palo Duro is, but also the Panhandle-Plains Historic Museum, Buffalo Lake Refuge, Texas Musical Drama, and great tours of the nearby ranches – including a working ranch that once belonged to one of the original founders of Canyon. Plan to stay awhile as there is a lot to absorb in this beautiful area.

13. Luckenbach

Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings (two American country and western singers) put Luckenbach on the map with their song of the same name.  This is a town that defines sleepy – with few residents and few shops.

In fact, their welcome sign hilariously reads, “Population:  3.” Luckenbach started out as a trading post and grew steadily over the years until the 1970’s when the ‘owners’ of the town tried to sell it. And believe it or not, they did.  Three Texans bought the town and put in entertainment venues throughout town – creating the modern day music and entertainment destination. Come for a show, relax in a great B&B, and do as the locals do – just chill out.

14. Port Isabel

Close to the border with Mexico , Port Isabel is one of the oldest coastal towns in Texas.  Port Isabel is simply one of the most beautiful spots in the state, and that alone draws crowds from year to year. Its two big attractions are the Port Isabel Lighthouse and the Texas International Fishing Tournament.

The lighthouse is located in the town square (the only town square in the U.S. with a lighthouse) and dates back to the mid-19th century and was instrumental in the Civil War battles in the area.  Visitors love parasailing, kayaking, boating, sports fishing, and dolphin sighting. Don’t forget to check out the Lighthouse Keepers Cottage, the Treasures of the Gulf Museum, and the Historic Museum.

15. Fredericksburg

Founded in the 19th century by Prince Frederick of Prussia, Fredericksburg is incredibly popular in Texas.  Strongly German in origin, the historic district there is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Most people think of boutique shopping, eclectic stores, antiquing, and charming museums like the Pioneer Museum and the National Museum of the Pacific War, when they think of Fredericksburg.  Enjoy a stroll through the historic district and after, head out to the Enchanted Rock –  a pink granite rock formation that is as mysterious as it is beautiful.  Be sure to listen out for “Texas German” while you’re there. Fredericksburg is one of the few places you can still hear it.

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Texas:

• Nacogdoches
• Schulenburg
• Port Isabel
• Fredericksburg

26 Best Small Towns in Texas You’ve Got To Visit

They say everything is bigger in Texas – and that’s true, even when it comes to the small towns in Texas. Sure, the towns are small in size, but they are BIG on charm. 

Across the Lone Star State, you’ll find quaint small towns with plenty of art, history, food, and play to keep visitors on their toes. So, buckle up and get ready to road trip through Texas’ most charming small towns.

Here are 26 small towns in Texas that we know you’ll love!

NEW BRAUNFELS

Though certainly not the smallest town in Texas, New Braunfels has small-town gumption and big-time beauty in its Gruene Historic District. Before New Braunfels annexed the district in 1978, it was a small town that had lived through every stage, from boomtown to a ghost town, until it entered the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

Just exploring the gorgeous architecture of the Gruene Historic District is worth the trip. The first home to grace the district was the Gruene family’s fachwerk-style home around 1845, but the Gruene family did not stop there. By 1878, multiple buildings had popped up in the German fachwerk, Victorian, and Mission style as more settlers came to the small town. Many of these buildings still stand today, including the Gruene Mansion Inn, the Gruene House, and the old cotton mill (now a restaurant and bar). 

The Comal River is one of the top attractions in New Braunfels. The Comal River stretches through the city, eventually merging into the Guadalupe River. People travel from all over the United States to float along the river in large rubber tubes.

Of course, this former small town within New Braunfels also has ample shopping, dining, and other attractions for visitors to enjoy. The town is 25 miles North of San Antonio; it’s the perfect escape from big city life. In the Gruene District, you’ll find ample boutiques and local restaurants, The Grapevine winery storefront, Gruene Hall, and other unique shops to fill your day with. 

Read More: 21 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS

Shiner, Texas has a population of about 2,000 people. Located in Southern Texas, this small town has become a national sensation thanks to its prime export – Shiner Beer. 

Visiting the Shiner Beer factory is a must if you drive to Shiner. The factory opened in 1909, and is Texas’ longest operating and oldest independent brewery. Tours include exploring interactive experiences and tastings, plus a stop at the brewery’s taproom.

While you’re in Shiner, you should also check out a few of their museums. The Cigar Factory Museum explores the history of cigar-making in Shiner by the Louis Ehlers Cigar Factory, and next door, the Green Cabin Museum brings the life of pioneers to life in a home that’s stood since 1853.

Across the U.S., people everywhere buy Blue Bell ice cream. But did you know that the sweet, creamy treat comes from a small town in Texas with a population under 20,000? Welcome to Brenham , home to an American ice cream giant, the world’s largest BBQ pit, and a German-heritage festival called Maifest .

A visit to Brenham will keep you busy for days! Between touring Blue Bell’s Creamery (two words for you: Free. Samples.), visiting the town’s wineries, and strolling downtown, you’ll get your fill of small-town charm here.

Personally, I highly recommend checking out the brewery and wine scene because Brenham’s German roots have inspired many a delicious micro-brew. In addition, the wineries Pleasant Hill and Windy Winery offer locally grown wine.

Marfa, TX is the place for you if you enjoy a good mystery and a healthy dose of the arts. Here, you can go hunt for aliens, find delicious Texan cuisine, and visit a dairy all in the same town. 

Marfa is most famous for the Marfa Lights, a strange phenomenon of glowing orbs that has entranced residents and visitors alike for generations. No one knows what the lights are or where they come from, but aliens and ghosts seem to be popular answers. 

If hunting for ghosts isn’t your jive, Marfa offers plenty of other entertainment. The town has the Marfa Maid Dairy, the “little dairy on the prairie,” which offers tours and interactions with the cute goats that make the dairy’s milk.

There’s also a thriving restaurant scene downtown, a winery, and glider experiences at the Marfa Airport, so you won’t run out of things to do on your visit!

In West Texas, the small town of Alpine is nestled beneath the majestic backdrop of Davis and Chisos mountain ranges. This village may seem small, but it’s known as the Heart of Big Bend for a reason – it’s the gateway to Big Bend National Park, and it has enough “heart” to fill a city.

Big Bend National Park is the perfect place for folks to escape the city and find relaxation on a hike through Texas’ natural wonders. After hiking through the scenic vistas, you’ll definitely want to swing by one of Alpine’s local restaurants, like Gringo’s Bar and Grill or El Jardin, to refuel.  

Alpine also hosts a variety of festivals. The town has an annual 4th of July fireworks display, the Big Bend Ranch Rodeo, a massive Cinco de Mayo fiesta, and more exciting events throughout the year.

DRIPPING SPRINGS

In Dripping Springs, Texas , you’ll discover a cool oasis waiting for you. This tiny town is just a short drive from Austin, but it’s a world apart from the big city!

Dripping Springs’ biggest attraction is the Hamilton Pool Preserve . The naturally formed pool has a 50-foot gushing waterfall and crystalline waters that have created a lush Eden, perfect for a day of swimming with the family. For more family fun, swing by Dreamland, a venue with mini-golf, food trucks, artwork, and live music for everyone to enjoy.

The quaint town of Dripping Springs is also home to the Texas Hill Country Olive Company, which brings the beauty of Tuscan architecture to Texas with its villa and rows of olive plants. You’ll also find Deep Eddy Distillery, Bell Springs Winery, and Twisted X Brewery open for tours and tastings in this small town. 

Ennis, Texas is a nexus point for everything from hot rod racing to the National Polka Dot Festival. You’ll find majestic scenery, delicious food and wine, and plenty of shopping in the historic downtown district. Yes, Ennis is as fun to visit as it sounds!

This little city resides near Lake Bardwell, and has several parks for outdoor fun like horseback riding, hiking, and swimming. On the Bluebonnet Trail, 40 miles of trails provide an up-close look at Texas’ state flower in April – the trail also hosts a Bluebonnet Festival during peak blooming season, typically in early April. 

Ennis is also home to an NHRA racing track, for folks wanting to burn some rubber while in town. You can also visit the Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum for a taste of local history!

Canyon, TX likely received its name thanks to the nearby beauty of Palo Duro Canyon State Park . This slice of small town heaven resides in the Amarillo Metropolitan Area, and has some of the best views of the Texas sky in the state.

Canyon’s Palo Duro is probably the biggest attraction in town. The canyon is known as “The Grand Canyon of Texas,” and is the second-largest in the country. The park has gorgeous landscapes of rugged buttes, sweeping desert, and brilliant blue skies perfect for a horseback ride or day of hiking.

Luckenbach, TX is famous for its German heritage, country music, and its population of three (yes, three ) people. Luckenbach grew out of the immigration boom of the 1800s, but by the 1960s, it was a ghost town. 

Today’s Luckenbach contains a General Store, a working saloon and dance hall, and the remains of the post office. Every weekend, the dance hall hosts a live music get-together full of dancing, singing, and good ol’ fashioned fun!

Read More: 18 AMAZINGLY FUN THINGS TO DO IN LUBBOCK, TEXAS

FREDERICKSBURG

Wine, military history, and enchanting nature have made the small town of Fredericksburg, TX famous. Located in the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg was named after Prince Frederick of Russia in 1846, and its German heritage remains one of its distinctive features to this day.

Visitors to Fredericksburg will find more than just a delicious schnitzel (but yes, there is delicious schnitzel to be had). You can also explore over 100 nearby wineries by taking a drive down the Urban Wine Trail, visiting a peach orchard, and even taking the kids to visit giraffes at Longneck Manor.

While you’re in the Texas Hill Country, don’t miss out on visiting Enchanted Rock State Park, which has stunning hiking trails, rock climbing, and the occasional yoga retreat for your enjoyment. If history is your thing, Fredericksburg has the Pioneer Museum, National Museum of the Pacific War, and a living history farm for you to explore.

Read More: 19 SUPER FUN THINGS TO DO IN FREDERICKSBURG TX

PORT ISABEL

Port Isabel, TX brings ocean life to the Lone Star State. Its town square lighthouse has guided many ships safely to the harbor over the years. The lighthouse is one of Port Isabel’s best attractions; the climb to the top rewards visitors with amazing views of the harbor and town.

But, there’s more to Port Isabel than just the lighthouse. You can also take a cruise on one of Black Dragon’s pirate boats, go fishing on the bay, and try wind sailing on the waters. In town, you’ll find haunted ghost tours, boutique shopping, and plenty of restaurants to fill your visit with.

WIMBERLEY 

Wimberley, TX is a small town full of quaint ranches, honky tonk dancing, and multiple swimming holes for folks to escape the hot Texas sun. 

Of all the attractions near Wimberley, Blue Hole Regional Park is perhaps the most famous. The natural spring-fed swimming hole provides a welcome respite from the Texas heat! Nearby, Jacob’s Well offers a chance to swim and scuba dive in the cooling waters of Cypress Creek.

Wimberley is also close to The Cave With No Name. The cave is a popular exploration site with gorgeous natural sculptures of stalactites and stalagmites. The Cave With No Name also has the Throne Room, a concert hall within the cave that hosts live music throughout the year. Talk about a unique experience!

Georgetown, TX is Texas charm at its finest. The small town is famous for its annual Red Poppy Festival, which celebrates the scarlet flowers that have been growing in Georgetown since WWI, when Henry Purl Compton sent them to his mother from Europe. The plants have spread and pollinated so well, that Georgetown is now “The Red Poppy Capital of Texas.” 

Georgetown is also home to a Blue Hole swimming area (it seems to be a popular name in Texas). The park features a natural lagoon that locals enjoy fishing, wading, and swimming in. For more outdoor fun, visit the San Gabriel River or explore the caves of Inner Space Cavern, before hitting up downtown Georgetown for food, live music, and shopping.

Llano, TX is a postcard-perfect town nestled in Central Texas. Its historic buildings, art guild, and a multitude of small businesses have created a slice of Americana in the heart of Texas.

Llano’s proximity to Enchanted Rock State Natural Park and the Llano River provides ample opportunities for escaping to Mother Nature during your visit. You’ll find the art guild’s exhibits as enchanting as Enchanted Rock in town. A leisurely stroll downtown will bring you to old-time candy shops, the Llano Craft Distillery, and other boutiques and shops that now reside in the historic buildings of the city.

Horses and Texas go together like peanut butter and jelly. In Bandera, TX , you can experience the life of a cowboy at a dude ranch, before visiting one of the western saloons in town to top off your night of cowboy living. 

Bandera offers more than just horseback riding to its visitors. The town also has a wonderful golf course, Flying L Golf Course, which has a hotel, waterpark and pool, wagon rides and smores, putt-putt, and traditional golf on the grounds. You’ll definitely get your fill of luxury and cowboys after a visit to Bandera!

Much of Texas has German heritage, with roots stemming from immigration during the 19th and 20th centuries. Boerne, TX is no exception. The town came to be after liberal abolitionists from Germany, called “Free Thinkers,” settled there. Many of Boerne’s buildings date back to the 1880s, when those settlers began to build.

When you visit Boerne, you’ll find a welcoming community full of history and fun. I recommend touring the Kuhlmann-King House to learn more about the German heritage of the town, or swinging by the old jail to get locked up and learn about crime in the Old West. 

Of course, if you want to get a taste of Boerne, its multitudes of German restaurants, American cuisine, and bakeries will keep your hunger satisfied. Dodging Duck Brewhaus is a popular stop, with German-fare and homemade beers that have won medals at the World Beer Championships.

Just 20 miles north of Waco lies a hub of Czech heritage. West, TX boasts the largest concentration of Czech Texans in the state, so it should come as no surprise that much of the town has Czech-themed gift shops, restaurants, and bakeries.

West, TX is famous for two things: One, it was the home of Scott Podsednik of the Red Sox. Two, it’s the official home to the Kolache of the Texas State Legislature. If you haven’t had a kolache, imagine a buttery pastry stuffed with bacon, sausage, or other meats, cheeses, and fillings. They are a delightful breakfast treat, and West has some of the best around.

JOHNSON CITY

Johnson City is a tiny town big on friendly, Texan charm. Its quaint town square evokes the imagery of Victorian Texas, with its 19th century courthouse and flower-lined shop fronts.

Highlights of Johnson City include its nearness to Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, and over a dozen wineries. Visitors to Johnson City should check out one of the nearby lavender farms to see stunning acres of gorgeous violet flowers.

Families will love visiting the Science Mill – an interactive STEM museum – and the Exotic Resort Zoo, where camels and kangaroos are just two of the animals you’ll meet on safari.

Boca Chica resides on the southernmost tip of Texas. No doubt you’ve seen its most famous attraction on the news recently – the SpaceX rocket currently resides there. 

The town is largely dominated by SpaceX today, but Boca Chica hides a gem for visitors to discover – its beach. Boca Chica Beach offers majestic views of the crashing ocean and is perfect for a day of picnicking, building sandcastles, and napping on the sand.

If you’re looking to get a few chills while out in the Texas heat, check out Terlingua . The lonely outpost near Big Bend is a ghost town, with a view of the Santa Fe de Los Pinos. The former mining town fell into abandonment by the late 1940s. 

Today, Terlingua offers tours of the abandoned city and a gift shop at The Terlingua Trading Company. Over at the Starlight Theatre, you’ll find live music and Mexican cuisine in a historical environment. The town also has several bed and breakfast options if you want to stay in the ghost town for a night or two.

Speaking of bed and breakfasts, Jefferson, TX has a superb array of them. Jefferson is the cutest little riverfront town in Texas. Its bed and breakfasts provide historical lodgings, each with its own mark of Texan gentility. Popular inns include the Azaela, the Carriage House, and the House of the Seasons.

Jefferson’s attractions are many, but the most fabled is the Gould Rail Car. Legend says that Jefferson declined a chance for Gould to build a railroad through the city because of their booming river trade, and Gould declared grass would grow in the streets because of their choice. Eventually, the river trade declined, but no grass has since grown in Jefferson’s streets. However, the town did buy Gould’s rail car and now displays it as an attraction near the Carnegie Library.

PORT ARANSAS

Port Aransas resides on Mustang Island, a small community with amazing beaches and eco-tourism opportunities for visitors. Port Aransas comes to life in the summer months, with thousands of tourists milling about the beaches, fishing, and strolling downtown.

During your visit to Port Aransas, I recommend reserving a dolphin excursion. You’ll get to head out onto the waves and meet the ocean’s friendliest resident. Or, you can always check out some fishing gear or go kayaking to get your fill out the water!

Read More: 22 SUPER FUN THINGS TO DO IN PORT ARANSAS, TEXAS

Round Top is the antiquing king of Texas towns. This tiny city, with a population numbering only about 100, is home to the Round Top Antiques Fair, which draws massive crowds in the spring and fall. 

Alongside antiquing, Round Top offers a diverse array of restaurants for the gastronome visitor. There’s funky Americana dining at Royer’s Round Top Cafe, live music at the Stone Cellar Pub, and pies galore at Royer’s Pie Haven. The town also has plenty of rustic bed and breakfasts, several museums, and vineyards to explore.

Grapevine, TX resides in Texas wine country, and is home to the Urban Wine Trail and GrapeFest, the largest wine festival in the Southwest. Its historic Main Street takes visitors back to the 19th century as they explore over 80 shops and restaurants, while the town’s aquarium brings ocean life to the plains of northeast Texas.

Grapevine has another name in the winter – The North Pole! From November to early January, the Grapevine Railroad transforms into the North Pole Express. Visitors can explore the Christmas Village, share a train ride with Mrs. Claus, and enjoy plenty of holiday shopping in town during their time in Grapevine – I mean, the North Pole.

Read More: 18 PHENOMENAL THINGS TO DO IN GRAPEVINE TX

MARBLE FALLS

The lakefront town of Marble Falls is a serene, welcoming community. The town is a hotspot for nature lovers, thanks to its abundance of lake activities and its proximity to outdoor adventures. The town is located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, within an hour of Inks Lake State Park, Balcones Canyonlands, and Longhorn Cavern.

Visitors exploring Marble Falls simply must stop by the Bluebonnet Cafe, a local haunt serving delicious pies and baked goods. The town also has a brewery, distillery, and winery for adult visitors to explore. Marble Falls is one of the best small towns in Texas!

SCHULENBURG

Schulenburg, TX is halfway to everywhere, or so the locals say. Its remarkable dedication to German culture is visible in the architecture and attractions of the city, from the buildings downtown to the Texas Polka Music Museum.

If you’re visiting Schulenburg, I highly recommend taking the time to tour the painted churches. From the outside, the churches look like your average gothic-style building, but inside , a kaleidoscope of colors dazzles the eyes. You’ll find yourself in awe of the portraits, stained glass, and stunning frescos that have wowed visitors since the 19th and 20th centuries. 

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO TEXAS

• GRAPEVINE:  18 Phenomenal Things To Do In Grapevine TX
• LUBBOCK:  18 Amazingly Fun Things To Do In Lubbock, Texas
• ARLINGTON:  11 Outstanding Things To Do In Arlington TX
• TYLER:  20 Things To Do In Tyler TX Everyone Will Love
• GLAMPING TEXAS: 23 Great Spots You’re Gonna Love

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13 Charming, Small Texas Towns You Should Definitely Visit

• Small towns in Texas may have low populations, but they offer genuine Southern hospitality, delicious food, and unique boutiques.
• Jefferson, Marfa, Fredericksburg, and Gruene are just a few examples of small Texas towns with rich history and attractions to visit.
• From art scenes to vineyards, charming downtown squares to outdoor recreation, these small towns offer a variety of experiences for visitors to enjoy.

They say everything is bigger in Texas, but there are actually a number of adorable small towns in Texas worth adding to the bucket list . Not just small as in 20,000 people; these are some truly tiny spots with populations as low as 10,000, 2,000, 300, and all the way down to 91!

Don’t let these small numbers deceive you. The Lone Star State is also known for its Southern hospitality, and these towns serve it up in an amazing way. From the friendly cafés that serve drool-worthy comfort food and cozy boutiques with stylish clothes that can’t be found anywhere else to the residents who smile, wave, ask how someone is doing, and actually care, these are small towns with some real charm. Here are some of the best small towns in Texas that are definitely worth a visit.

UPDATE: 2023/10/22 21:22 EST BY NICOLE HANSEN

More To Love In Tiny Texas Towns!

Ready to visit some of the smallest, most charming towns in Texas? This list has been updated with even more small towns to visit in the Lone Star State, as well as additional information about each small-town destination. Have fun exploring!

RELATED: 10 Small Towns In America That Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List

At less than 2,000 permanent residents, according to the 2020 US census, Jefferson is the definition of a small town. Jefferson may not be one of the tourist towns that generally make the list in Texas, but there is plenty to see and enjoy in this quirky rural area.

Jefferson is one of relatively few towns in Texas with pre-Civil War history. Despite the low population, there are nearly 100 historic landmarks in the small town of Jefferson, including churches, a Civil War meat packing plant, and several factories that are over 100 years old.

After exploring the rich history of the area, visitors can enjoy the cozy southern-style cooking from local restaurants and make the most of their time in one of the best small towns in Texas.

• Population of Jefferson: ~1,875 people

Travelers looking for a vibrant art scene may not think of West Texas, but hiding in the tiny town of Marfa, a place that just over 1,800 people call home, is a unique display. Marfa has gained some fame in recent years for its unexpected variety of artwork, including several pieces by Andy Warhol, among others.

Some particularly unique permanent displays, like the " Prada Marfa ," continue to draw visitors to this unusual stop. With the added benefit of the town's small size and friendly disposition, there is no reason not to visit this one-of-a-kind small Texas town.

• Population of Marfa: ~1,840 people

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is slightly larger than some of the absolute smallest towns in Texas. With just over 11,000 people, Fredericksburg is hardly big city material, but attractions are sure to invite. Fredericksburg is known for having some of the best vineyards in Texas , many of which can be visited and toured by guests.

Fredericksburg also has a unique German theme throughout the town. The locally owned restaurants and shops are full not only of southern hospitality but German-themed food, sweets, and souvenirs. With such an exceptional vibe and a wide variety of things to do and see, Fredericksburg is absolutely one of the best small towns to visit in Texas.

• Population of Fredericksburg: ~11,072 people

Related: 8 Most Charming B&Bs To Book Near Fredericksburg, Texas

Gruene was a town known for its cotton, but now, it's a tourist destination full of unique finds. With just 20 permanent residents, the entire town has been added to the National Register of Historic Places. There is a historic Victorian mansion, the Gruene Family Home, which is an inn. There are antique stores and gift shops full of treasures.

There is the Gruene Hall, which is one of the oldest dance halls in the state. There is an old cotton gin that was turned into an amazing place to eat, the Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar. And there is the iconic water tower that stands above it all.

• Population of Gruene: ~20 people

Marble Falls

Marble Falls, one of the best small-town destinations in spring , is located near Austin, Texas, and has just over 6,000 people in it. Outdoor recreation is a big draw to the area, as Lake Marble Falls offers pretty views, hiking trails, and a large drag boat race each year.

The downtown square is full of adorable shops (including one that sells the best toffee in the world). One of the most notable spots in town is the Blue Bonnet Cafe. It opened up in 1929, and it is known for its Southern hospitality and food, such as delicious pies!

• Population of Marble Falls: ~7,227 people

Munday has around 1,300 residents, and it sits in between Abilene and Wichita Falls (two towns in Texas that are a little bit bigger!). This is a farming community with an emphasis on cotton, but there are many other perks, as well. There is a school that has earned several state titles in extracurricular activities such as football, track, cross-country, band, one-act play, and CX debate.

There is a downtown square with cute stores, such as a flower shop called Buds For You and a clothing store called Casa Blanca Boutique. There is also a public art project that has resulted in several murals and other pieces going up in town.

• Population of Munday: ~1,240 people

During its last census, Wimberley had 2,626 people living in it, and this is another charming town to see. First up, there is the Blue Hole Park, a lagoon in which people can swim, and the Blanco River. There is a downtown square that attracts numerous visitors with its shops and restaurants.

There are wineries and inns nestled in this pretty Hill Country area. And there are regular Market Days, too, which allow even more people to discover even more goodies in one of the best small towns in all of Texas!

• Population of Winberly: ~2,626 people

RELATED: 10 Of The Best Burgers In Texas And Where To Find Them

Graham is in north central Texas, it has been around since 1871, and it has around 8,900 residents. There are several churches, a hospital, a radio station, a couple of parks, and a drive-in movie theater.

There are a number of exceptional downtowns to explore in Texas , but they would be hard-pressed to compete with the small-town downtown scene in Graham. Graham's downtown square, which claims to be the biggest in the nation, also has a movie theater, as well as several shops and eating establishments. Up until just a couple of years ago, Graham was one of the few towns left in the state that was dry, meaning no one could sell wine or beer.

• Population of Graham: ~8,765 people

Bastrop is part of the Greater Austin area, and its population is 7,218. This charming place is full of historical homes, lovely shops, a state park, art galleries, annual community events, and The Bastrop Advertiser, which is the oldest continuously published weekly newspaper in the state.

Furthermore, several films have been filmed in this location over the years, such as The Texas Chain Saw Massacre , Courage Under Fire, Michael, Hope Floats, Bernie and Boyhood, and director Richard Linklater is even from Bastrop.

• Population of Bastrop: ~7,218 people

Albany is an additional cute town in Texas, and it has just under 2,000 residents. Like the other spots that have been listed out here today, there is a great square full of boutiques, as well as a gorgeous courthouse.

One of the biggest draws in Albany is the Fort Griffin Fandangle, which happens each year in June in order to give the history of Fort Griffin, a military outpost in the area that now functions as a state park. As the oldest outdoor musical in the state, this show combines the American West, catchy songs, humor, and a true look back through time.

• Population of Albany: ~ 1,927 people

RELATED: 10 Haunted Spots In Texas

Dripping Springs

About 4,800 people live in Dripping Springs, near Austin, and it has become a real tourist destination. It is the state’s wedding capital. It is full of wineries, breweries, and distilleries. It is also the state’s first Dark Sky Community, which has a lighting ordinance that has reduced outdoor lighting to a minimum since 2011.

There are also several celebrities from this Central Texas town, such as Kyle Chandler, Jesse James, and Jensen and Danneel Ackles, who own the Family Business Beer Company in Dripping Springs.

• Population of Dripping Springs: ~4,787 people

Near Fort Worth, people can find Granbury, which is another little spot that is full of charm and history. There are just over 11,400 people in this town, and a good amount of the buildings found on the downtown square are historical landmarks.

One of these is the iconic Granbury Opera House, which actually puts on productions. Additionally, Davy Crockett's wife, Elizabeth, lived here in the 1800s and is buried here at the Acton State Historic Site, Texas’ smallest state park.

• Population of Granbury: ~11,424 people

One of the most unique places to visit in Texas , there is one small town that boasts tons of activity, despite housing less than 100 permanent residents. That small Texas town would be Round Top, with just 91 residents. This place is best known for pie at the Royers Round Top Café and for the Round Top Antiques Fair; this event happens every spring and fall, it draws in tons of people from around the country, and it features booth after booth of antiques.

Speaking of antiques, Round Top is also home to the Junk Gypsy Company, as these design stars have a store and an inn in this location. With such unusual activities to enjoy, it's no wonder Round Top is one of the best small towns in Texas.

• Population of Round Top: ~91 people

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

16 Cutest Small Towns In Texas

March 2, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you heading south to see some of the cutest small towns in Texas? Well, howdy! You’ve found the best list of small cities in Texas that will make you want to plan a trip across the entire state!

Maybe you’re from outside of Texas and you want to experience this southern state, or maybe you’re just looking for a day trip out of Austin , either way, you will want to check out each of these small Texas towns!

Allow us to provide the list for you!

Fredericksburg

One of the most notable small towns in Texas is Fredericksburg. Fredericksburg is a chic town in Central Texas known for its German background and tons of wineries!

Fredericksburg has a number of museums that showcase the German heritage we were talking about. Theres the Pioneer Museum that displays 19th-century German artifacts, but even more notable is the National Museum of the Pacific War. This museum has a recreation of a combat zone to let visitors fully explore what World War II was like on the battlefield in the Pacific.

Outside of the museums, there are plenty of surrounding wineries that are worth adding to your list of places to visit. The Pontotoc Vineyard Weingarten is a popular winery where “pontotoc” means “land of the hanging grape.”

Dripping Springs

Dripping Springs is truly one of the cutest small towns in Texas. It’s located near the state’s capital, Austin, and is a city you will not want to miss while you’re down south.

If you’re a vodka enthusiast, this town is calling your name! Dripping Springs has two extremely popular vodka distilleries that are known across the entire state of Texas!

Deep Eddy Distillery, home to Deep Eddy Vodka, is one attribute to this small town you will put at the top of your list. This distillery created the famous Deep Eddy Ruby Red, a vodka infused with real grapefruit.

Then there is the famous Dripping Springs Distillery. This distillery was the second distillery ever in Texas! When you get tickets to come here, you also get a nice shot glass to take home with you!

Dripping Springs is also home to the most beautiful pool. The Hamilton Pool Preserve is a must see for any trip to these Texas small towns. Hamilton Pool has a 50-foot waterfall that would make an incredible background to any picture-perfect moment!

If you’re looking for an old western ghost town feel, this is one of the best small towns in Texas to experience!

With a population of just 3 people, this Texas city is the exact definition of ghost town. But just because the population is down to an extreme few, Luckenbach is rich of country music culture and Texas history!

Luckenbach’s has an extremely popular General Store and Saloon. While the General Store used to be the store for the town, now the building is still running as a souvenir store for the town’s visitors. This is definitely a stop you’ll want to bring some extra souvenir money for!

But when we think of Texas, we think of country music, which is exactly what you can find when you come to Luckenbach.

This Texas small town is known for its connection to country music stars Jerry Jeff Walker and Willie Nelson. In 1973, Jerry Jeff Walker and the Lost Gonzo Band created their live recording of their album, Viva Terlingua , at the Luckenbach Dance Hall.

Willie Nelson chose Luckenbach as the site for his Fourth of July Picnic between the years 1995-1999 making this town a hot spot for country music for decades!

Luckenbach needs to be on your list of Texas small towns to visit!

Marfa is one of the cutest small towns in Texas chances are you’ve seen before, you just can’t remember where and why you know it..

One popular exhibit in Marfa is Prada Marfa, an art exhibit that is photographed all over. We’re sure you’ve seen the mini Prada in the desert before, even if you didn’t know it belonged to this small Texas city!

Located between the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park, Marfa is famous for more than just its mini Prada. Marfa has been the site of numerous films, one of which being Warner Bros. movie, Giant , starring Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean.

Outside of being a movie set, Marfa is artistically beautiful. This Texas city is in the arts hub of West Texas, and has tons of art galleries and exhibits to visit during your trip. But one thing you won’t want to miss is the Marfa Lights.

The Marfa Lights just might make you believe in magic, or at least an unexplainable phenomena. The Marfa Lights are there orb lights that have been around since the 19th-century, and no scientist has been able to discover why this happens. This is the type of magic you can only see in Marfa!

Nacogdoches

Not only is this one of the cutest small towns in Texas, but Nacogdoches is actually nicknamed the Oldest Town in Texas as it was the first official town in the state!

Nacogdoches is also home to Stephen F. Austin State University, one of Texas’ most popular colleges. The SFA Mast Arboretum is just off campus and has the most beautiful 19 acre plant and tree experience. But if 19 acres doesn’t feel like enough plans for you, there is also the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden. You will want to get your camera ready!

Nacogdoches is known for its brick streets and relaxing trails. Some notable trails are the Lanana Creek Trail and Banita Creek Park. If you’re looking for a relaxing walk or nature viewing during your trip to Texas, you’ll need to make stops here!

Nacogdoches is not only the oldest town in Texas, it is also home to the largest blueberry production in the state. The Blueberry Place is the blueberry version of a strawberry farm, only here you’re able to pick your own blueberries!

Nacogdoches is one of the cutest small towns in Texas for an endless amount of reasons, but there’s nothing more exciting than seeing the city that gave Texas its first town!

Round Top is located in Fayette County which is east of Austin with a population of 85. If you love antiques, then Round Top, Texas is a small town you must plan a trip to!

Round Top is home to numerous antique stores and major antique shows. To start, this small Texas city has a large store called Antiques on the Square. This is one of the largest locations for antique collectors visiting the city. There is also another shop called Antiques & Vintage at the Bull Market where you can find antique artifacts and paintings that would add a southern feel to your home after your trip!

There is also a place for antique lovers and candle lovers to unite. Bella’s Candle’s produces candles out of antique and vintage moldings so that you get something new out of history!

Round Top is one of the cutest small towns in Texas for its location in University of Texas in Austin’s English Department Program for recreating Shakespeare plays.

The English Department at UT Austin travels to Round Top to reenact scenes during an event called Shakespeare at Winedale. They put on performances during the summer and spring, so if you are traveling around that time, you will want to block some time to experience this!

Mineola is one of the best small towns in Texas if you’re looking for a city with an interesting history and hidden gems.

Located just east of Dallas, Mineola is part of Texas’ Wood County. Mineola played a primary role in the railroad industry because of the amount of endless timber found throughout the city.

In fact, if you want to understand more of Mineola’s railroad history, you’ll need to make a stop at the Mineola Depot and Railroad Museum. The museum has artifacts on display and even a model train to help tell the history of railroads to anyone that visits Mineola.

Speaking of timber and wood, Mineola is also home to the Mineola Nature Preserve where you can take a walk and relax in the meadows or take a seat at the pond and just soak in the day. Here, you’ll experience over 193 different bird species, and other exciting wildlife.

You can see wildlife outside of the Mineola Nature Preserve, as well! Mineola is one of the cutest small towns in Texas in part because of C.A.R.E.S (Conservation Advocacy for Rare & Endangered Species), previously known at Mini ‘S’ Exotic Zoo.

At C.A.R.E.S, you’ll see animals that you might not have access to anywhere else! This place is home to lemurs, otters, fennec foxes, and llamas. If this wasn’t already on your list of places to visit, we’re sure it is now!

You won’t want to miss out on Mineola on your trip to Texas!

Willow City

Willow City is a cute small town just 15 miles away from Fredericksburg. This town has a population of 75, but has a huge culture!

This small Texas city is known for Das Peach Haus and the Pecan Grove Historic Ice House. If you’re looking for a tasty drink, you can swing by Das Peach Haus and grab a refreshing glass of peach cider!

Or if you are looking for a historic (and huge) burger, you can drop by the Pecan Grove Historic Ice House and have a famous “Dino Burger.” This burger is best served with a beer from the Biergarten while relaxing under the giant pecan trees in the area.

But the most scenic part of Willow City is the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a great place to see beautiful rock formations. This picture perfect area is a great place got enjoy a picnic or spend time looking at the stars.

You can also plan a day trip here for the 11 miles of hiking. You can spend the day on a leisure hike while taking a look at all the different rock formations along the trails.

If you want something a little more adventurous, you can bring your rock climbing gear and get to work! Make sure to plan ahead, as some of these trails close during wet weather, and they close 30 minutes after sunset.

Wimberley, Texas is a chic small town south of Austin, in Hays County.

This is one of the best smalls towns in Texas for nature lovers. Wimberley has beautiful cyprus trees and spring wildflowers, making this city such a picturesque experience. Not only that, Wimberley has two large and popular swimming holes!

The Blue Hole Swimming Area is surrounded by wood trails and is the perfect place for to spend the day relaxing with friends and just enjoying the sun. If you’re looking for another swimming hole, there’s Jacob’s Well.

Jacob’s Well is one of Wimberley’s hidden gems, and it’s so popular that you have to make a reservation before going to the well. You can only swim in the well during summer time, as the rest of the year the city dedicates to wildlife restoration. Wimberely focuses this time to help ensure that the wildlife that calls the area home is able to be maintained despite all of the visitors to the well.

If you’re feeling like a hike or trying something new, you will want to check out Old Baldy Mountain. Old Baldy is about 1850 feet high, and is located in Garner State Park. Spend the day hiking to the top and experience the best view of Wimbereley!

Other than hiking a mountain, Wimberley has their own Wimberley Ziplining Course consisting of 10 different ziplines. Here, you’ll get a 15 mile view of the Wimberley Valley and it will take your breath away! If you want to check this out, plan ahead because it is by reservation only!

Salado, located between Waco and Austin, is one of the coolest small towns in Texas because it only exists in part as a way to build a bridge over the Salado Creek.

This Bell County Texas city is a great place for artists to explore glassblowing or painting. At Salado Glassworks, you can take a seat and watch as the professionals blow beautiful glass works of art, or you can come to a “blow-your-own” event and see how quickly you can become the professional.

You can also head down to the Royal Street District and explore the Barrow Brewing Company, or take a second to learn about the city’s history at the Salado Museum and College Park.

One of the coolest things to check out in Salado is the Salado Winery Co. Here, they produce what they call the “Texiest” wines. These wines are crafted from grapes grown and harvest right from Texas. All of the wines crafted here are Texas born and raised! If you love wine, you will definitely want to take a second to see this place!

Alpine is located in Brewster County, just 90 miles away from Big Bend National Park and Mexico. This is one of the most exciting small towns in Texas for it’s history and places to visit!

Alpine has a historic walking tour that takes you through the entire town. While taking the walking tour, you will see numerous historic homes, art galleries, murals, and bookstores along the way. Any history lover must add this to their Texas bucket list!

Being so close to Big Bend National Park, it only makes sense that there is the Museum of Big Bend. After visiting this museum, you will have all the knowledge of Big Bend at your fingertips!

Sports lovers, don’t fret, there is a little something for you as well! Kokernot Field has been called the Yankee Stadium of Texas, basically saying, if this wasn’t already a place you want to visit, you will want to visit now!

There is one stop you will have to make and leave your mark on this small Texas city before heading out, and that’s the Desk on Hancock Hill. At the top of this hill, there is a metal desk that contains a notebook inside. People travel from all over to leave their messages and stories in this notebook as a way to tell their story.

The best way to mark your travels is to find this notebook and leave your own story!

West, Texas is known for its Czech culture and they are proud of their kolache skills!

Located in McLennen County, right between Austin and Dallas, this Texas city is extremely famous for its Czech Stop truck store. People from all over the state regularly make their way to this truck stop to grab breakfast at any hour of the day!

West, Texas is known for more than their famous kolaches, they have entire bakeries dedicated to pastries that best showcase their Czech culture. One bakery in particular that you will want to check out is the Little Czech Bakery.

Other than bakeries and kolaches, this small Texas town is known for holding Westfest, a celebration of the Czech culture. Bands from all over come to play at this celebration. One notable band is the Denton, Texas-based Bravo Combo that joins this celebration yearly!

At Westfest, they have carnivals, 5k Kolache Runs, and a parade! If you happen to be planning a trip to West, Texas, we recommend coming during Westfest!

This is one of the most cutest small towns in Texas for its soda connections and Irish backings!

Dublin is recognized by the Texas Government as the Irish Capital of Texas. Here you will find thousands of Irish themed souvenirs to take home and Irish themed buildings to sight see.

Not only that, but Dublin is basically the soda capital of Texas! Dublin is famous for Old Doc’s, the oldest Dr. Pepper bottling plant in the world. This soda shop is full of vintage bottles and decorations to make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time for a brief period!

After visiting the home of Dr. Pepper, you can make a quick stop at Dublin Bottling Works, home of Dublin’s real sugar cane root-beer!

Don’t forget to check out the museums while you’re in this historic town!

First you’ll need to check out the Dublin Historical Museum so that you can learn all about the city you are visiting. Golf enthusiasts will want to check out the museum for hometown golf ledger, Ben Hogan!

Dublin, Texas is a small Texas town with a big love for soda and Ben Hogan! You won’t want to leave this town off your list!

Terlingua, Texas is one of the smallest Texas towns with a population of 110.

Terlingua is one of the most visited ghost towns in Texas! People from all over come to visit Terlingua and explore Big Bend. This small town in Texas has the perfect location between Big Bend National Park and the Rio Grande River.

This town has numerous outdoor attractions to visit while you are here! One of which is the Far Flung Outdoor Center. Here you can go on Jeep tours, AVT explorations, go camping, or enjoy a dip in the river. If you are really enjoying the river, you can take a river tour!

You can also head to the Lajita & Big Bend Stables and take a day trip on the horse trails! You can enjoy the views and outdoors while letting the horses do all the walking!

While enjoying the outdoors, you can go to the Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon for some live music. Don’t forget to bring the lawn chairs! This wold be a fantastic way to end a day of hiking trails or lounging on the river.

Terlingua may be a ghost town, but it isn’t lacking in history and adventure!

Marble Falls

Another one of the cutest small towns in Texas is Marble Falls. This small city is located near Austin and San Antonio and is perfect for anyone that loves spending time outside!

One place you will want to visit while here is Marble Falls Lake. You can take a walk, enjoy a picnic, or just lounge on lake for the day and just enjoy the sun and the company of those around you. You can spend the day boating, camping, or fishing!

You can also take a nature walk in Backbone Creek, or take a guided cave tour! Where else in Texas can you take a cave tour? Your guess is as good as ours, so you might not want to miss this opportunity!

One chic little place you will want to visit is Sweet Berry Farm. Here you can pick your own seasonal treasures on the farm. Most people love to pick strawberries and blackberries during the summer, and pumpkins in the fall! No matter what season you choose to visit, you won’t leave empty handed!

Shiner, Texas is a small Texas city located near San Antonio, and is home to Shiner Beer.

Being the home to Shiner Beer, it only makes sense that this city would be home to numerous breweries! One of which is Spoetzl Brewery, the most popular in the city.

Other than beer, Shiner is also used to be home to one of the cutest candy stores. Licorice and Lemon Drops Old Fashioned Candy Shop was a local favorite and many residents of Shiner, Texas have been mourning the loss of their vintage candy store.

One interesting hot spot in this Texas city is Howard Convenience Store. It seems odd that a convenience store would be on our list of must-sees but this is no ordinary convenience store.

Howard’s has also been dubbed the Shiner Country Club. At Howard’s, you can rent movies, buy Shiner memorabilia, eat or drink without ever feeling like you are at a convenience store!

While Texas is one of the largest states in America, it is home to the cutest small towns in Texas. Whether you are looking near Big Bend, or you’re looking for a ghost town to visit, you will find something exciting at every city on this list!

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Best places to visit in texas.

They say everything is bigger in Texas. And if you take into account all that the state has to offer, it's easy to see why the Lone Star State packs such a potent punch with travelers. Texas is filled to the brim with breathtaking countrysides, significant historical attractions, diverse museums, pristine city parks, suburban shopping meccas, mouthwatering barbecue and more. U.S. News took into account traveler sentiment and expert analysis to come up with the best places to visit in Texas. Want to share your opinion? Make sure to vote below to help determine next year's list. 

Big Bend National Park

Fredericksburg, tx, san antonio, guadalupe mountains national park, port aransas, south padre island, mustang island, corpus christi, san josé island.

This sprawling metropolis promises a jam-packed itinerary for every type of traveler, whether you're traveling with the family or on a romantic getaway . Explore the many museums, parks and historical sites the city has to offer, including the infamous Dealey Plaza, where JFK was assassinated, or get to know Dallas' vibrant, artsy neighborhoods like Trinity Groves and the Design District. And if you're visiting during football season, catch a Dallas Cowboys game to see state pride at its best. However you spend your time, you'll be surrounded by top-notch restaurants and a surplus of shopping options.

Every year, more than 500,000 people visit this national park along the U.S.-Mexico border to spend some time outdoors. Big Bend National Park features hundreds of miles of paved and dirt roads for scenic drives, as well as 150-plus miles of hiking trails. While exploring the park's sections of the Chihuahuan Desert, the Chisos Mountains and the Rio Grande, keep your eyes peeled for more than 450 bird species, including several kinds of woodpeckers, thrashers and sparrows. At night, camp (or glamp) under the moonlight to see why Big Bend is one of the best dark sky parks in the country.

For a different kind of Texas vacation, skip the state's main cities and beach towns in favor of a visit to Fredericksburg. This Texas Hill Country locale is known for its superb shops, rich German roots and tasty wines. When you're not enjoying some retail therapy on Main Street, learn about the town's connection to Germany at the Pioneer Museum. Don't forget to sample some of Fredericksburg's delectable vino before you leave; you'll have your pick of more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms in and around Fredericksburg.

Historical relics like The Alamo are no doubt San Antonio's biggest draw. However, you don't need to be a history buff to enjoy all the city has to offer. The River Walk makes for a soothing stroll along the San Antonio River, while the expansive Brackenridge Park offers a variety of attractions and amenities. Active travelers can practice their swing at the park's golf course and ball fields, nature lovers can pass the time in its stunning Japanese Tea Garden and families can get an up-close look at the on-site San Antonio Zoo's animals. Before you leave, sample a San Antonio staple – the puffy taco.

If hiking is one of your favorite pastimes, then you'll want to venture to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. This national park by the southern Texas-New Mexico border houses eight of the state's 10 highest peaks, including the iconic El Capitan, and features 80-plus miles of hiking paths, such as traveler-approved routes like Devil's Hall and the Guadalupe Peak Trail. Although the scenery is stunning year-round, for extra-memorable vistas, visit in fall when the park's tree leaves turn vivid shades of red, orange and yellow.

This small town on Mustang Island (about 40 miles northeast of Corpus Christi) provides ample opportunities for fun in the sun. When you're not sunbathing, parasailing or splashing around at the beach, put your angling skills to the test in the "Fishing Capital of Texas" or sign up for a dolphin-watching cruise. You'll also want to keep an eye out for the endangered whooping crane and other birds in this bird-watching paradise. If you love festivals, time your visit to coincide with one of Port Aransas' events, which focus on everything from art to music to food.

Texas is home to some prime Gulf Coast shorelines , and South Padre Island is considered one of the best. South Padre offers 34 miles of relaxing beaches along the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. While the island has a reputation for being a prime party spot for spring breakers, the rest of the year it's favored by families thanks to its affordability and bevy of kid-friendly attractions. Head to Sea Turtle, Inc. to learn about local sea turtle rehabilitation efforts, or visit Beach Park Waterpark to cool off on a hot day.

The capital city's colorful character takes Texas to an entirely new level. Austin offers loads in the way of culture, cuisine and natural scenery. While here, enjoy unique outdoor areas like Zilker Metropolitan Park (where you'll find the natural Barton Springs Pool), various museums and plenty of delectable Tex-Mex joints. The best way to soak up Austin's contagious energy is to visit Sixth Street. This music hub is packed with bars, restaurants and live music venues that have helped Austin earn its "Live Music Capital of the World" moniker. For a souvenir, head to SoCo to pick up a pair of authentic cowboy boots.

Originally inhabited by wild horses, the aptly named Mustang Island is now known for its miles of beaches and outdoor activities. On this 18-mile-long barrier island, which sits about 30 miles southeast of Corpus Christi, visitors will find Mustang Island State Park, a popular place to go mountain biking, kayaking and swimming. The park is also home to endangered sea turtles and more than 400 bird species, making it an excellent destination to spot wildlife, and boasts 5 miles of beaches. For more outdoor recreation outside the park, travelers can visit North Packery Beach to enjoy water sports like kiteboarding, wakeboarding and surfing.

Once a lesser-known, low-key getaway, this small town just north of Mexico now attracts space enthusiasts thanks to its SpaceX launch site. Beachgoers will still find plenty of allure with Boca Chica's 8-mile-long stretch of sand, but remember to bring your own equipment since water sports rentals like surfboards and kiteboards are not available on-site. You'll also want to plan ahead, as the beach is closed near rocket launch dates. While here, save time for wildlife watching, as the area is a haven for various bird and sea turtle species, particularly in spring and fall.

Renowned as one of America's top barbecue destinations, Houston offers travelers a finger-licking good time. But did you know Houston is also a culture hub? Within the urban sprawl, visitors can check out museums galore, from NASA's impressive Johnson Space Center to the quirky Art Car Museum. Many of the city's restaurants and shops are also covered in Instagram-worthy murals. Plus, with the world-class Houston Zoo , verdant Buffalo Bayou Park and a children's museum, Houston is an ideal (and affordable) vacation spot for families. Consider purchasing a CityPASS to save even more coin.

Corpus Christi features several scenic shorelines and can't-miss attractions to keep you entertained for days. Popular stretches of sand in this Gulf Coast city include McGee Beach and North Beach, which is also home to two of Corpus Christi's most visited sights, the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington. Additional museums and entertainment venues can be found in SEA, the city's Sports, Entertainment and Arts District. Meanwhile, music fans can visit several sites dedicated to the emblematic Tejano singer Selena, including the Selena Museum and the Mirador de la Flor memorial.

Sitting in between Fort Worth and Dallas (roughly 23 miles from both), Grapevine delights all travelers, whether they're outdoorsy types, historians or wine lovers. Lake Grapevine is a popular boating and fishing spot, while its surrounding trails attract hikers and bikers. Meanwhile, history buffs can engage in 19th-century heritage events at Nash Farm or ride into the past on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. As its name suggests, Grapevine is also home to several tasting rooms along Texas' Urban Wine Trail. What's more, with some of the best water parks in Texas , an aquarium and a LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Grapevine is incredibly kid-friendly.

Located about 50 miles southeast of Houston, Galveston attracts Texans looking for a convenient place to spend some time at the beach. The island features family-friendly spots like Stewart Beach (with amenities like lifeguards, volleyball courts and a playground) and Pleasure Pier (which features an array of games and rides). Meanwhile, Schlitterbahn Waterpark offers yet another place to play. Away from the sand, visitors can explore the shop-, restaurant- and nightclub-filled Strand District, named a National Historic Landmark for its well-preserved Victorian architecture. Travelers will also want to check out other historical sights, such as Bishop's Palace and Moody Mansion.

Easy to reach by ferry from Port Aransas, this former ranch is now a prime beach destination. Because San José Island is privately owned, the island's only publicly accessible land is its 21-mile stretch of unspoiled sand situated below the vegetation line. But visitors will find plenty to do on the beach. The island's more than 600 kinds of fish and roughly 300 bird species make it a terrific place to go fishing and birding. Other popular pastimes here include shelling and surfing.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Padre Island National Seashore

Texas Hill Country

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• 10 Underappreciated Towns to Visit in Texas

In eras past, Texans were legendary for their ability to brave frontiers that no other pilgrim dared to contest, especially when the Mexican government at that time had its eye on the same plots of land. A few dozen decades and wild-west conflicts later, Texas is now the proud home to many a ripe community waiting to take in wanderers lucky enough to stumble in. While San Antonio and Houston might receive the majority of international attention, these underrated towns are also owed some love.

Marfa is an unusual town planted in the midst of West Texas, and its mystery comes not just from an otherworldly arts scene but the ever-mysterious phenomenon called 'Marfa Lights.' During the Marfa Lights Festival, the skies are painted with mysterious lights that are still not fully understood. Earlier in June, visitors could also check out the annual Agave Festival, which celebrates plant species of the same name. The town is further known for Donald Judd’s minimalist installations at the Chinati Foundation, and it also features works by Andy Warhol at the Ayn Foundation.

When you are ready to stretch your legs, try exploring Big Bend National Park or Davis Mountains State Park, because both are ideal for hiking and soaking in a bit of sun. Some of Marfa’s other most visited spots include the tiny Prada Marfa sculpture, or the somber Holocaust and Model Ship Museum which is dedicated to the rafts which escorted people to safety in World War II . From there, catch an uplift and a boost of adrenaline and soar over the Marfa Plateau by booking with Marfa Gliders.

If scent triggers memories, then the smoky aroma of Lockhart, the "Barbecue Capital of Texas," is unforgettable. Located just south of Austin , this town is a paradise for BBQ lovers, featuring legendary spots like Black's BBQ and Kreuz Market. But Lockhart is not just about food. The Lockhart State Park offers a golf course, a pool, and fishing ponds for a relaxing day outdoors. Indoors, opportunities to peer into history exist at the Caldwell County Museum or marvel at the stunning architecture of the Caldwell County Courthouse and the Southwest Museum of Clocks.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is a quirky blend of Old West charm and German heritage, founded in 1846 by German immigrants. Just 90 minutes west of Austin, this small town of 11,000 grants a peek into the past via locations like the Pioneer Museum and Fort Martin Scott. The town's streets are lined with eclectic shops (in line with Austin's tradition of "weird"), antique stores, and the steamboat-inspired Nimitz Hotel, now the National Museum of the Pacific War. If you are craving a breath of fresh air, you can explore the mysterious Enchanted Rock, a pink granite formation, or visit the nearby Lyndon B. Johnson State Park.

Alpine is like a desert flower blooming off in the wayside of West Texas. Once a vital stop on the Southern Pacific Railroad, Alpine invites you to explore the Museum of the Big Bend, where regional artifacts weave tales of the past. Take a hike up Hancock Hill for astounding views, or roam downtown to admire over 40 murals capturing the town's essence. If one prefers art to be indoors, catch up on what the local talent is creating at the Catchlight Art Gallery or the Curry Studio & Gallery. For a nostalgic treat, catch a movie at Rangra Theaters or cheer on a baseball game at historic Kokernot Field. If the sun is out, feel free to cool off at Kokernot Park’s refreshing pool.

Nacogdoches

Fancy a trip to one of Texas' oldest cities, Nacogdoches? This historic town, where Spanish missionaries blended cultures with indigenous Americans, is a treasure trove of stories and sights. Walk the red brick streets and chat with friendly locals while admiring the Historic Town Center's architecture. Visit the Stone Fort Museum and the Victorian Fortney House for a peek into the past. Then, enjoy the natural beauty of the Ruby Mize Azalea Garden and local hiking trails. Do not miss the Spring Garden Gala, Earth Day festivities, or the Blueberry Festival. To learn more about the area and events like these, stop by the Nacogdoches Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Kerrville, along the Guadalupe River , is a lively Texan town brimming with activities. Louise Hays Park, featuring a splash pad and serene picnic spots, encourages relaxation. For a more educational experience, the Riverside Nature Center features guided walks through native plant sanctuaries. The local art scene also buzzes with energy, showcased by performances at the Cailloux Theater and exhibitions at the Museum of Western Art. The annual Kerrville Folk Festival attracts crowds with concerts and craft shows, highlighting the town's community spirit. Additionally, residents and guests with senior companions appreciate the excellent healthcare provided by Peterson Regional Medical Center, which ultimately makes Kerrville a welcoming and worry-free retreat.

Rockport, known for its resilience post-Hurricane Harvey, welcomes visitors with its lively festival scene and personality-rich downtown. The town is stretched along the Texas Riviera, and it invites beachgoers to stroll barefoot on the sands and watch dolphins play by the pier. Rockport Beach, Texas's first 'Blue Wave Beach,' guarantees clean, family-friendly fun. For those who enjoy these doses of nature, another option is Goose Island State Park, which provides forests and seashore. Moreover, fishing, whether by land or by boat, is a particularly popular pastime in this area. To learn more about the stories of Rockport's past, the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site or the Texas Maritime Museum are excellent places to begin a historical journey. Or, you can add a little color by checking out the Rockport Center for the Arts and attending the Rockport Art Festival in July. To finish off your day, enjoy a wine tasting at the Winery on the Bay.

Port Aransas

If you ever dreamt of meeting dolphins while angling for snappers, Port Aransas on Mustang Island is your go-to haven. Known as the “Fishing Capital of Texas,” this coastal jewel gives visitors gorgeous weather perfect for dolphin watching, fishing, and boogie boarding. However, guests are not the only ones searching for sea life: Mustang Island's 18-mile stretch features rolling dunes and a wildlife haven where nearly 400 bird species, including the rare whooping crane, gather at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. The area is also rich in art galleries and quiet watersports, allowing a serene alternative to crowded beaches elsewhere. Finally, do whatever it takes to avoid missing a sunrise at Mustang Island State Park, just a short drive away.

With a cannonball's roar, Gonzales marked the start of the Texas Revolution in 1835, a legacy captured at the Gonzales Memorial Museum, home to a legendary cannon with the moniker "Come and Take It," which once represented defiance against Mexican dictatorship. On that note, the town's heartbeat is its patriotic downtown decorated in 19th-century architecture around spaces like the Texas Heroes Square. These Texan heroes cannot be mentioned without also bringing up the annual 'Come and Take It' celebrations, which bring parades and reenactments to life. History lovers can further explore the Eggleston House, J.B. Wells House Museum, and Pioneer Village Living History Center for a taste of frontier life.

Ready to wander where dinosaurs once roamed? Head to Glen Rose, just 50 miles from Fort Worth and Dallas , where you can explore Dinosaur Valley State Park and its ancient tracks preserved in limestone. As you walk through these historic footprints, consider a detour to downtown Glen Rose to admire its well-preserved buildings, including the Somervell County Courthouse and Paluxy Heritage Park. For a mix of adventure and tranquility, hike the Limestone Ledge Trail or enjoy the serene Oak Springs Trail. Fall is an especially great time to visit, with cooler weather and vibrant foliage enhancing the experience. Glen Rose truly melds prehistoric intrigue with present-day charm.

Final Thoughts

It takes nerve to venture far into the reaches of regions like West Texas, but thankfully, these towns lay out the welcome mat. History and state pride are in ample supply here, so with a little respect and an eagerness to learn, guests can expect to make lifelong friends with local folk. So, treat yourself and discover a few of these marvelous spots in person.

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Texas Travel 365

30 Things To Do In Texas: The Ultimate Bucket List

August 23, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365

Are you starting your next adventure and need a list of things to do in Texas? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve got the most epic stops, sightsees, road trips, and more in Texas that will make you want to bring a pen to keep track of where you’ve been so you can complete the list!

Texas is extremely unique and there’s a little something for everyone here! Whether you’re here for a day, a couple of weeks, or you live in Texas and just want to explore, this list is the perfect companion to your Texas adventure.

Hamilton Pool

Hamilton Pool is a nature reserve located in Travis County Park. This is one of the most epic things to do in Texas during your stay! It’s so popular that they require a reservation before you are able to show up, and you have to be prepared for reservations to fill up early!

Hamilton Pool is home to a 50-foot waterfall that will be the perfect subject of any picture, or provide the perfect background for your group photos!

Hamilton Pool is also home to the Golden-cheeked Warbler and many other various bird species. The Golden-cheeked Warbler is even pictured on their Travis County Park logo!

This is one sight you will want at the top of your itinerary!

Explore The Small Towns

One thing you have to do while in Texas is explore the small towns !

You can visit Luckenbach with a population of only 3 people, or visit the popular Prada location in Marfa! No matter which small town you choose to explore, you will find a uniqueness that can only be found in that particular town!

Many of the small towns are located near each other so you can make it a weekend trip, or take a few days and stretch from Dripping Springs to Nacogdoches!

Exploring the small towns in Texas is one way to find some of the most hidden gems that state has to offer!

Haunted Texas Road Trip

Now this one might now be for the faint of heart. A Haunted Texas Road Trip is the perfect way to test your limits and experience something you just can’t explain!

The most notable stops are the Yorktown Memorial Hospital, Lobo, Marfa, and Terlingua. Each stop has an unexplainable feeling that will make your trip memorable.

While the Marfa Prada store seems like a great place to stop, the city has an unexplainable phenomenon called the Marfa Lights which are floating bright orbs that no one has been able to explain. Not to mention in Lobo, the town has been abandoned so the isolation you might feel here will have the hairs standing on the back of your neck!

We guarantee you will want to stick around during this road trip and see what phenomena you can experience.

See The Bluebonnets

Of course one of the things in Texas you have to do is stop and look at the Bluebonnets! The official state flower is an eye-catching experience as the areas they are located create blue fields!

You can visit the Bluebonnet House in Marble Falls, or head to Ennis, just south of Dallas, to travel through the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas! In Ennis, you will see the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail and will experience hundreds of beautiful Bluebonnets!

You also have to stop in Burnet, the Official Bluebonnet Capital of Texas! If there’s any place to see the glorious fields of Bluebonnets, it’s Burnet.

Gorman Falls Waterfall

If you find yourself around Wichita, Texas, you must stop and see the Gorman Falls Waterfall!

This 650-foot waterfall is full of tiered cascading falls and is one of the most captivating things to do in Texas. This waterfall is positioned in Colorado Bend State Park, and you will have to pay the park’s entrance fee to view the falls, but it will be worth every penny!

You absolutely need to utilize the bridge and see that perfect viewing spot!

Swimming is not allowed here, but viewing the falls will make the mile-round trip hike from the parking lot completely worth it!

You can’t come to Texas without taking the time to visit Big Bend!

Located in Brewster County, Big Bend is often named “Texas’ Gift to the Nation.” You’ll have to make the trip to Big Bend National Park and spend time in the Chisos Mountains.

Here, you can stop and explore the Langford Hot Springs, or take a day hike through the park. The best time to visit Big Bend is the Spring or Fall so that it is not too hot or cold outside.

The beauty of Big Bend is one of the best things to experience in Texas, so don’t leave this off your itinerary!

Kayak at Nichol’s Landing Paddle Trail

Kayakers traveling to Texas will definitely want to add this kayaking hot spot to their list of things to do in Texas!

Nichol’s Landing Paddle Trail is located at the Upper Guadalupe River and is comprised of about 10 miles of kayaking trails.

Here you’ll see beautiful Cypress Trees and have plenty of trails to relax and spend time in the water. This kayaking hot spot is great for a 3-6 hour experience, so make sure to plan to spend a good portion of your day here!

The trail ranges from rapid and rushing to calm and serene so all skills are necessary when experiencing this trail!

Dallas Museum Of Art

The Dallas Museum of Art is one of the most elaborate museums in Texas. With art from the third millennium BC stretching all the way to present day, you’re sure to see a lot of history and even a few famous artists.

At the Dallas Museum of Art, you can see works from Jason Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Vincent van Gogh. These works have people traveling from all over to see these famous works!

They also have programs for kids and plenty of lecture series with famous authors and artists. There’s a little something for everyone at this Texas museum!

Boca Chica Beach

Located in the southernmost part of Texas, this beach is considered a hidden Texas gem.

This beach is located near Corpus Christi and South Padre Island with a huge view of the border of Mexico! At Boca Chica Beach, you’ll find the clearest water in Texas. If that doesn’t sound like reason enough to stop and check out the beach, there’s always the special wildlife to entice you!

This beach is home to the critically endangered Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle, and every Spring and Summer they nest on Boca Chica Beach!

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

One thing you have to experience while in Texas is the Guadalupe Mountains, National Park!

This Texas park is known for having the 4 highest peaks in Texas, and the stargazing on a clear night that is unlike anywhere else! From here, you can see over 11,000 stars and have a perfect view of the Milky Way!

You can also hike any of their numerous trails, or spend a few days camping on the land. If you’re crunched for time, you can visit their visitor’s center and spend some time in the museum!

The entrance fee to the park is $10, but worth every penny!

Castle Falkenstein

This Texas castle will feel straight out of a fairy tale!

This castle was created by Terry Young and his wife after a trip to Europe left them inspired to build a castle of their own in Texas.

Located in Burnet, part of Texas Hill Country, this castle is frequently used for privately hosted events, weddings, and even lodging rentals! If you’re looking for a fairy tale experience for your Texas trip, this castle is perfect for you!

Fall Foliage In Lost Maples State Park

If you find yourself in Texas during Fall, this location needs to be one of your first stops!

Here you’ll find Uvalde bigtooth maple trees that turn red, orange, and yellow during the fall season. The park even has a Fall Foliage Color Report that gets updated every week in November so that you can ensure you are going at a time when the colors are the most vibrant!

The park tends to fill to capacity quickly, especially the week of Thanksgiving, so make sure to head out there early!

San Antonio River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk is one of the most famous attractions in Texas!

The River Walk is home to numerous hotels and dining experiences that will put you right into the heart of the River Walk. The River Walk also hosts festivals and parades year round.

Some of the most notable parades are the Parade of Lanterns and the Holiday River Parade!

You can also kayak in the San Antonio River Walk between March and September!

Jacob’s Well

Jacob’s Well is located in Hays County and is one of the most popular places in Texas! The natural well area is roughly 81 acres and is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily!

Jacob’s Well is the second-largest submerged cave in Texas and at its deepest point reaches 140-feet deep! People from all over come here to swim, so much so that you have to make a reservation to swim in the well!

The allowed time for each swim reservation is 2 hours, so make sure you plan your day for this! You can also hike in this area, and you do not need a reservation to hike, only to swim!

A Fabulous Weekend Getaway

While in Texas, you must have a fabulous weekend getaway at The Driskill Hotel in Austin!

The Driskill Hotel is located on 6th Street, which is one of Austin’s most famous streets! This street is historic and is home to the Austin nightlife and culture! The hotel is within a 10-minute walk from the State Capital Building.

The hotel is extremely luxurious and you will feel like a royal for the entire duration of your stay! You won’t want to come to Austin without spending a weekend treating yourself to this experience!

Go Camping At Palo Duro Canyon State Park

You can’t come to Texas without a camping trip! The perfect place to pitch a tent is at Palo Duro Canyon State Park! This state park is truly one of the best things to do in Texas!

This area is known as the Grand Canyon of Texas. Located in the Texas Panhandle, this park offers campsites in multiple different areas! All campsites in the area offer electricity, but you can opt-out of using it to get the full camping experience!

No matter which campsite you stay at, you are guaranteed views of the Palo Duro Canyon! It is truly one of the best things to do in Amarillo.

Visit Jester King Brewery

Are your really in Texas if you don’t stop at a brewery while you’re there?

Jester King Brewery is located in Austin, and it is much more than just a brewery! Here they serve pizza, wine, beer, and many events for their guests!

There is a nature trail located on the 165-acre ranch, and plenty of areas to stop and enjoy the brewery experience. They also host many summer concert series and Goat Yoga!

We know you’ll enjoy this Texas brewery!

Houston Museum Of Natural Science

One of the best things to do while in Texas is to visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science! The world around you will seem so much more interesting after a visit here!

There are many permanent exhibits here such as the Cabinet of Curiosities, Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals, and the Morian Hall of Paleontology!

Not only do they have those awesome exhibits, you’ll also need to stop by the Burke Baker Planetarium and see Lamps of Atlantis and Black Holes, two very popular exhibits!

Tour Kyle Field

Being in Texas, one of the first connections you might make is Texas football! That’s why you should take a tour at Kyle Field, the largest stadium in Texas!

This stadium is the largest ranked by its 102,000 capacity limit. It’s located at the Texas A&M campus in College Station.

The tour lasts between 45 to 60 minutes and is a cheap fun way to experience the largest home to Texas football!

Coastal Texas Road Trip

With the Gulf of Mexico nearby, it’d be a shame to not take a coastal Texas road trip!

This road trip would take you through the most popular Texas towns on the coast like Galveston, Matagorda, Corpus Christi, and South Padre Island.

At any of these stops, you can stop and explore the beaches, or take a dip in the warm waters thanks to the Gulf of Mexico!

You’ll find a uniqueness to each stop on this road trip that will keep you entertained for days!

Go To The Texas State Fair

If you’re in Texas during September or October, you must check out the Texas State Fair in Dallas!

This Texas fair is the longest-running fair in America, and even better, it is also the largest! This fair is home to Big Tex, the World’s Tallest Cowboy, and also a famous Texas icon!

Beginning in 1886, the Texas State Fair prides itself on promoting Texas traditions in Agriculture, Education, and Community Involvement.

When you’re in Texas, this will end up at the top of your list!

Visit The Fort Worth Zoo

This one is for animal lovers!

The Fort Worth Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Texas, and is home to 540 animal species! The zoo hosts special events all the time such as field trips, weddings, holiday parties, and corporate events!

Here you can interact up close and personal with sharks and stingrays! This is one of the reasons this zoo was ranked by USA Today as the number 5 zoo in the nation!

Get ready for an animal-filled day here!

Eat At Tito’s Mexican Restaurant

Tito’s Mexican Restaurant is located in San Antonio and is a great place to experience authentic Mexican food in Texas!

Tito’s is known famously for their Margarita/Tequila Bar, as well as their fajitas and enchiladas. Here you’ll get the taste of Mexico in Texas!

This San Antonio restaurant was established in 2003 in the Historic King William District! When you’re in Texas, you’ll want to make a stop here for delicious food and Happy Hour drinks!

Bat Watch At Congress Avenue Bridge

This is one experience in Texas that you simply can’t do anywhere else!

The Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Here, over 1.5 million bats reside during the summer before heading back to their home in Central Mexico for the fall.

The best time to view these night flyers is at dusk on any summer night! You can access the bridge for perfect viewing free of charge.

The largest bat colony in North America is waiting for you during your time in Texas!

Visit Space Center Houston

You definitely won’t want to miss out on this experience!

The Space Center Houston is one of the most popular places to visit in Texas. This is in part because it is home to NASA’s Mission Control Center!

Here, you’ll find the world’s largest collection of moon rocks, and you’ll see tons of NASA’s systems on display. If you’re here during the holidays, you’ll even get to experience Galaxy Lights, a holiday display that the center is famous for during the winter!

Start planning your trip to NASA!

The Fort Worth Stockyards

The Fort Worth Stockyards is the perfect place to feel like you’re in an old Western movie!

The Fort Worth Stockyards is the perfect place to view a true Texas rodeo. There are also concerts and western theme shops all throughout the stockyards!

You can stop at the museum and learn about the history of Fort Worth while you buy the best pair of boots you can’t find anywhere else!

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch is one Texas location that you are able to leave your mark on the state!

Located in Amarillo, Cadillac Ranch is an iconic fixture of Cadillac vehicles stationed in the ground, with years of layering from past visitors. People come from all over to spray paint their own mark on a vehicle!

You can bring your own spray paint, or you may be lucky enough to find a can that was left behind by a previous visitor!

You can also visit the visitor center and buy jewelry made from paint chips that have come off the cars! There’s no record of how many layers of paint are currently on this fixture!

Visit The Texas State Aquarium

In 2019, this Texas aquarium was voted by USA Today as the number 4 aquarium in America!

One of the coolest things about this aquarium is the 4 bottlenose dolphins they house in their Dolphin Bay exhibit! They also have a Saving Sharks exhibit where you can track tagged sharks in real-time!

Other popular exhibits here are Jungle, Caribbean Sea, and Living Shores. Each with something to teach you about wildlife and oceanic life.

You’ll want to make sure to stop here at least once while in Texas!

Visit The Gaylord Texan At Christmas

A Texas Christmas that you’ll remember can happen at the Gaylord Texan!

While Texas isn’t known for snow, that isn’t true for the Gaylord Texan. During the holidays, this hotel offers snow tubbing, snow throwing, various snow slides, as well as its famous ICE! show.

The ICE! show is a 9-degree ice showing of a true winter wonderland. You’ll want to pack a coat and mittens for this experience!

One thing you need to do is.. remember the Alamo! You can’t come to Texas without stopping at this historic marker.

The Alamo is known as the Shrine of Texas Liberty, and there’s no doubt that this is a huge piece of Texas history! You’ll be able to take a guided tour and see everything the Alamo has to offer.

Make sure to walk through the Living History and talk to the Living Historians. Here you’ll get an up-close and personal take on what life was like during the 1800s and even learn about events surrounding the Battle of the Alamo in 1836!

Texas is one of the largest states in America, and that means there are a lot of things to experience in Texas! Whether you want to spend a weekend getaway somewhere, are looking for the best place to see various animal species, or you just want to see what makes Texas.. well Texas!

There is something unique in Texas for everyone. We know you’ll love the stops on this list!

Reader Interactions

October 10, 2023 at 9:21 pm

As a native Texan I have fond memories of most of the these. Even though I spent most of my art education career taking my students to the Dallas Museum of Art, it is not my favorite museum in Texas. The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston and the Kimbell in Ft Worth also have internationally acclaimed collections. Each have their collection of quality pieces and host international touring exhibits of masterpieces.

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The 15 Best Things To Do In Tyler, Texas, The "Rose Capital of America"

Outdoor Fun

Things to do, where to eat, where to stay.

Courtesy Visit Tyler

Starting in the 1940s, more than half of all roses purchased in the United States came from the area surrounding Tyler, Texas, earning the city the sobriquet “Rose Capital of America.” But many more things have recently started blooming in this East Texas city, as well. New businesses are moving into old vacant spaces downtown, with new road and pedestrian projects slated to breathe new life into the downtown corridor within the next five years. A quaint new development with brick fronted buildings called the Mosaic District is drawing new food and craft beer fans three miles southwest of downtown, and a larger dining scene on the rise, with some businesses attracting national attention, all indicate that Tyler will be smelling just as sweet decades after its rose boom years.

Here are the best things to do on your trip to the charming small town of Tyler, Texas.

Courtesy of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Visit the Famed Rose Garden

True to its legacy as the Rose capital, a significant number of the rose bushes sold commercially and to average gardeners are still grown near Tyler today by companies such as Chamblee’s Rose Nursery . You can explore some of the beautifully fragrant varieties with a visit to the 14 acres of flowers at Tyler Rose Garden , bursting with 38,000 rose bushes.

Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, which reach peak bloom twice a year: mid to late May and October—coinciding with the annual Tyler Rose Festival. You can also explore the exhibits at the on-site Tyler Rose Museum and Gift Shop, showcasing the beautiful costumes from past queens.

visittyler.com/business/tylerrosegarden ; 420 Rose Park Dr., Tyler, TX 75702; (903) 531-1212

Explore a Newly Revamped Zoo

While smaller than some of its other Texas counterparts, Caldwell Zoo still delivers an afternoon of big fun communing with wildlife—even more so after a soon-to-be-unveiled redevelopment of its South American section, promising an immersive rainforest experience with a giant river otter exhibit, capybaras, sloths, and a variety of birds.

caldwellzoo.org ; 2203 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tyler, TX 75702; (903) 593-0121

Spend the Day at the Park

East Texas is known for its tall pine forests, providing ample shade and tranquil vibes. A great place to experience both the forest and the lake life together is at Tyler State Park, with plentiful trails and campsites for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tyler State Park Lake is a great place for fishing and swimming in warm months—and you can rent all the equipment you need right on site. A new headquarters and visitors center debuted this summer providing interpretive exhibits exploring the park’s historic roots dating back to the days of the Civilian Conservation Corps.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/tyler ; 789 Park Road 16, Tyler, TX 75706; (903) 597-5338

Cynthia J. Drake

Head to the Planetarium

Go for an old fashioned planetarium show at the Hudnall Planetarium at Tyler Junior College. The 40-foot dome features comfortable reclined seating, and offers public shows from 11am to 4:30pm Tuesday through Saturday, with themed shows for young kids and documentaries for adults. Stay tuned to the calendar for special events planned throughout the year.

sciencecenter.tjc.edu ; 1411 E. Lake St., Tyler, TX 75701; (903) 510-2312

Find a Pair of Boots

Explore the selection of hand-crafted cowboy boots, belts, handbags, and leather goods at Lucio’s Boot Repair & Western Wear, a family-owned business operated by Jose Lucio and his son Gabriel for more than 25 years. 

luciosboots.com ; 305 W. Front St., Tyler, TX 75702; (903) 595-6164

Explore the Mosaic District

Walking through the Mosaic District, with its charming brick facades and old timey signage, feels like you’ve traveled back in time—though this development is just a few years old. Anchored by True Vine Brewing , Tyler’s first brewery featuring a small outdoor play space for kids, the district has expanded to include Sola Bread Co. , where you can order wood-fired pizzas and fresh-from-the-oven garlic knots, and The Apple Gal Candy Co. , home of hand-dipped caramel apples with gourmet toppings of your choice. mosaicdistricttyler.com ; 2453 Earl Campbell Pkwy., Tyler, TX 75701

Enjoy a Local Dinner

When restaurateur Scott M. Williams opened his fourth Tyler restaurant, III Palms , this past spring, it was one of the few locally owned fine dining establishments in the city. Inside, a crisp neutral tableau accented by artistic fixtures sets the stage for a memorable culinary experience, from craft cocktails to prime filet mignon and tableside bananas foster. For more steak and seafood selections, go to Prime 102 , home to a legendary crab cake, lobster macaroni and cheese, and butter cake for dessert. 

Get Your Fill of Tex-Mex

If you’re craving Mexican or Tex-Mex, head to Don Juan Mexican restaurants —there are three locations in Tyler—for signature tacos and tostadas filled with barbacoa, al pastor, or fresh seafood. Try a freshly made tortilla or a tamale from the Tyler Tortilla Factory , where they’ve been making corn and flour tortillas, chips, and salsas for nearly 40 years.

Indulge in a Sweet Treat

For dessert, visit Janie’s Cakes , a mother-daughter bakery that skyrocketed to fame after being featured on the Oprah’s Favorite Things List for owner Janie Clapp’s scrumptious pound cake recipe. You can visit the store or order online. Tip: The Vanilla Pound Cake Biscotti makes a great accompaniment to breakfast coffee.

Stay in a Refurbished Bus Station

In an innovative example of building reuse, an old bus station now enjoys its next life as a comfortable overnight stay for travelers at the Greyhound Inn. Contactless entry in this downtown hotel, full of character with its glass block walls and sleek subway-tiled bathrooms with bright pops of color puts you right in the middle of Tyler’s newest chapter.

greyhoundinntx.com ; 311 N Bois D'Arc Ave., Tyler, TX 75702; (903) 476-3911

Stay in a Stylish Downtown Hotel

The Thomas Hotel also offers boutique hotel accommodations right on the downtown square. Enjoy plush bedding, welcome refreshments, and marble bathrooms in this cozy environment. While there, be sure to visit The Judge , a cocktail bar with a signature Fig Old Fashioned and the lavender-infused Garden 75.

thethomastyler.com ; 109 E Erwin St, Tyler, TX 75702; (903) 426-8958

Related Articles

The 10 Best Places to Live in Texas in 2024

Reading Time: 13 minutes

If you’re planning on moving to Texas, add these cities to your list.

In this Redfin article, we’ve uncovered the best places to live in Texas, ranking them on qualities such as affordability, navigability, and number of amenities. You can find more information about our methodology here or at the bottom of the article.

Overview of Texas

Texas is big. Big landscapes, big cities, and big personalities define the southern state, along with a southern culture that values progress and tradition . This unique combination has helped create sprawling cities full of bright lights and innovation adjacent to vast prairies where ranchers have farmed for generations . 

These qualities have attracted people to the state for years: Texas was among the fastest growing states in the U.S. from 2010-2020, and is still growing rapidly as people look for sunshine and affordability . Most people are moving to the state’s large urban centers, like Austin, Dallas, and Houston. 

Because of its size, Texas’ landscape varies widely from one end to the other. There are woodlands to the east, marshes in the south, mountains and desert to the west, and thousands of miles of rolling prairies in the center and north.

Texas’ climate is also very diverse . Western Texas sees dry, sunny weather for most of the year, with very hot summers. Central and Northern Texas experience a windy , temperate climate. As you move east, the climate becomes wetter and more humid, especially in the far east . The entire Gulf Coast sees a huge amount of rain every year, primarily from tropical storms.

Importantly, extreme weather is common in Texas. It sees the highest number of tornadoes in the U.S. (usually in the central and northern plains), is highly prone to flooding, wildfires, and drought, and commonly sees tropical storms and prolonged heat waves .

1. Fort Worth, TX

Built around the fertile banks of the West Fork Trinity River, Fort Worth tops our list as the best place to live in Texas. Relatively affordable housing costs, plenty of job opportunities, and a steady economy helped earn the city top marks. Cattle ranching and oil drilling have shaped the city since its founding in 1853 , but a diverse and engaged population have kept it thriving. 

Fort Worth is generally considered a quieter , more affordable alternative to Dallas where you retain the big-city amenities and gain a small-town community feel. Fort Worth’s Downtown neighborhood is a great example of this: it’s historic, slower paced, and full of locally-owned businesses, but also has large attractions like the Water Gardens and Convention Center .

“Living in Fort Worth is a treat, full of charm and history. I love it for its outdoor activities, specifically the serene Fort Worth Botanic Garden and the scenic Trinity Trails, perfect for sightseeing and fitness enthusiasts. You’ll also find well-maintained parks and gardens throughout the city.” – John Friar from Tree Service Fort Worth  

While often referred to as part of the larger Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area , Fort Worth is a world-class city in its own right. Nearly a million people enjoy the city’s huge open spaces, unique cuisine, and annual events. The Botanic and Japanese Gardens at Trinity Park are a must-see. For foodies, Panther City BBQ , Birria y Taqueria de Cortez , and Swiss Pastry Shop (get the black forest cake!) are among the best local eats. And if you’re looking for a fun weekend, the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo every winter is iconic. 

However, minimal public transportation and a fast-growing population often leads to heavy traffic congestion in the mornings and evenings.

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Located in Southern Texas, 150 miles from the Gulf Coast, San Antonio is second on our list. San Antonio is referred to as the Alamo City after its most famous landmark , and manages to blend colonial history , agricultural traditions , and modern luxuries into one. Along with a very affordable cost of living (housing costs are ~40% less than the national median ) and plenty of amenities, San Antonio has a lot to offer.

“San Antonio’s charm lies in its community and culture. As a family, my wife and I love taking our children to explore the historic Pearl, where modern eateries and shops blend seamlessly with century-old architecture.” – Michael Street, San Antonio native and owner of Fidelity Home Inspection

A defining feature of San Antonio is its food scene. San Antonio is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy , giving credence to the city’s diverse population and outstanding cuisine. Barbecue and Mexican food is world-class, of course, but there is so much more. Great options are available at all price points, too. San Taco, Shiro Japanese Bistro, and Dough Pizzeria Napoletana are among the best .

Beautiful parks and trails are a bit of a hidden gem in San Antonio. More than 240 fields, pools, and facilities are scattered throughout the city, with Pearsall Park , Southside Lions Park , and Phil Hardberger Park among the most popular. You can’t miss the iconic River Walk , either. And just outside city limits, you can see Government Canyon and Natural Bridge Caverns , home to forested trails and underground concerts.

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3. Austin, TX

“When you live in Austin, it’s not hard to find something fun and unique to do. On weekends, you can find vendors at places like the Texas Farmers Market or Eastside Pop Up. And on weekdays, you can take a dip in Barton Springs or attend a public program at the Texas Science & Natural History Museum.” – Alex Donovan from the Texas Science & Natural History Museum , located on the UT Austin campus

An hour and a half northeast of San Antonio, Austin is a historic and rapidly growing hub of technology, culture, and education.

Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, millions of people flock to Austin every year for its music, highlighted by the South by Southwest and Austin City Limits festivals. But that’s just the tip of the musical iceberg; more than 250 music venues (plus the airport) host shows year-round. Some bands will even skip the formalities and just set up on a corner downtown. 

“I love living in Austin because of the plentiful hiking trails located in and around the city. The Lady Bird Lake Trail is one of my favorites because it runs near excellent restaurants and outdoor activities, and showcases the many flavors of the city.” – Justin Black from 1618 Asian Fusion , a popular restaurant in Austin

Importantly, Austin has been the poster child of growth in the past few decades, and really took off during the pandemic housing boom. The ensuing housing frenzy led Austin to be a national hotspot, adding wealth, jobs, and new communities seemingly overnight. What was already a hip destination became renowned nationwide. 

In part due to the growth, house prices in Austin rose from $382,000 in January 2020 to $599,450 today. Unfortunately, the increase priced some homebuyers out of the city , and continues to impact locals. However, the Austin metropolitan area remains among the fastest-growing in the country.

“Exploring Barton Springs Pool or kayaking on Lady Bird Lake are among the best ways to enjoy Austin’s natural beauty and beat the Texas heat. Favorite outdoor spots include the Greenbelt for hiking and Zilker Park for picnics and outdoor festivals like Austin City Limits Music Festival.” – Sara Malek Barney, founder of BANDD/DESIGN , an Austin-based interior design firm

Even with all of the recent changes, the Texas capital manages to stick to its “ Keep Austin Weird ” slogan. Eat breakfast tacos, float down the river with friends, and see your favorite band at a bar. In Austin, the world is your oyster.

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4. Dallas, TX

Dallas comes in at number four on our list of the best places to live in Texas. Sitting adjacent to Fort Worth, Dallas is known for its football, cowboy culture, glamorous downtown, and great barbecue. Dallas is generally pricier than Fort Worth, but both sit below the national median house and rental prices. Plenty of people have been taking advantage of the affordability recently, too: the area saw the largest population growth of all U.S. metros in 2023.  

“Dallas is so rich with amenities and opportunity that even one of its suburbs, Irving, has more than enough amenities to satisfy a motivated resident. If you’re in Irving, the Las Colinas neighborhood is the place to be. You have the Toyota Music Factory, which showcases great performers, and the beautiful Campion Trail for outdoor enthusiasts.” – Christine Brown, Irving-based interior designer and owner of Design Zoo

People of all ages will have plenty to do in Dallas. The Great Wolf Lodge, Six Flags in Arlington, and the Dallas Zoo are perfect for weekend fun, while 180 miles of pedestrian trails make for easy recreation. Dozens of historic landmarks dot the city’s gridded streets, too, like Founder’s Plaza , the Old Red Museum and Courthouse , Old City Park , and Degolyer House & Gardens . 

And you can’t miss the food, whether it’s Tex-Mex or good ol’ barbecue. Avila’s , Hutchins BBQ , and Maple and Motor offer some of the best cuisine the city has to offer. 

Make sure to consider the climate before making the move. Similar to many other Texas cities, Dallas summers can be unbearably hot and very stormy . But a mild, sunny climate the rest of the year is a fair tradeoff for locals, perfect for enjoying sporting events, eating outdoors, or enjoying one of 410 city parks .

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5. Houston, TX

“Houston is massive, so I’m always stumbling upon areas that feel completely new to me. In fact, I find it hard to be bored here – there’s always something happening. Most importantly, though, are the people. They’re the best part about living in the city.” – Patrick Bertolino , a Houston-based real estate photographer

Houston, the largest city in Texas, is next on our list. The city extends over 600 square miles nearly to Galveston, and hasn’t stopped growing for decades. It saw the second-largest population growth in the country in 2023, and the larger metropolitan area has added one million new residents since 2010. Many people choose to live in Houston for its economic opportunities and affordable cost of living, especially in the city’s suburbs. 

“I love living in The Woodlands (a Houston suburb) with my husband and four spunky canines. With over 200 miles of hiking and biking trails, it’s hard to believe that behind the trees lies convenient shopping of all kinds.” – KAT Troulinos, owner of TA DA by KAT , a local, award winning staging and design company

In Houston, a sparkling, historic downtown gives way to a seemingly endless number of buildings and attractions. You’ll find 10,000 restaurants , miles of bayous and trails, thousands of acres of parks, a Space Center, war memorials, ritzy shopping districts, and much more.

“We love Houston for its treasure trove of landmarks that offer us photographers a wealth of subjects. The Water Wall in Uptown is perfect for capturing stunning shots against dynamic water features. Plus, the murals and street art in EaDo (East Downtown) are a must-visit for any photographer.” – The team at Strata Visuals , a real estate photography company based in Houston

Oil, natural gas, and manufacturing are the major industries in town, but startups and technology are growing, too. You will likely need a car to get to work, though, as public transportation and pedestrian access are generally lacking . As a result , traffic can be very heavy during rush hours. 

It’s also essential to consider climate risks. Due to the city’s massive sprawl , very wet climate, and poor urban planning , flooding is common and can be extreme. Hot, humid summers give way to strong tropical storms and hurricanes. Thunderstorms are common during the spring and summer, too. Drought has also been a regular occurrence in the past decade. Fall and winter are the best seasons in Houston, when mild weather and plenty of sunshine dominate the forecast. 

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6. El Paso, TX

El Paso, located in the Chihuahuan Desert, has a markedly drier, sunnier , hotter climate than most other cities in Texas. It’s named the Sun City for a reason, after all. Great affordability, plenty of open space, and outdoor recreation earned it the number six spot on our list. 

The area has been both a railroad and cow town , both legacies of which are still obvious today . You’ll find plenty of steakhouses, historic grazing lands, and modern-day ranchers with their Stetson hats and spurred boots, as well as railroad exhibits at the Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens . 

El Paso is great for those who enjoy the outdoors. The Rio Grande River provides plenty of opportunities for whitewater rafting, fishing, sunbathing, and more. Franklin Mountains and Hueco Tanks State Parks are probably the most popular spots, though, with amphitheaters, trails, vistas, and more. You can explore old mine shafts , too. 

Importantly, El Paso is located on the border of Mexico, adjacent to its southern twin, Ciudad Juárez (whose name used to be El Paso Del Norte ). The two cities were originally founded as one, but they were split by the border in 1848 . Today, the cities have a cordial relationship with one another, with daily life often split between the two. For example, it’s commonplace for binational children to cross the border every day for school. 

El Paso homes for sale | El Paso houses for rent | El Paso apartments for rent

7. Denton, TX

Denton is home to great food, quiet neighborhoods, and historic buildings throughout its compact layout, along with 41 parks and thousands of acres of open space. Housing is relatively affordable, too, although more expensive than Dallas proper. In general, a strong economy , great schools , and a steadily growing population help make the city an attractive place to live.

Denton has long been a university town with a youthful vibe, home to the University of North Texas (UNT) and Texas Woman’s University (TWU). More than 50,000 students are enrolled across the two colleges, influencing the city’s culture and economy. Education is the city’s top industry.

The heart of Denton is the recognizable Denton Square, home to the historic Denton County Courthouse and a new, large shopping mall. As you move out, you’ll find suburban neighborhoods, parks, and lively community hubs. 

Restaurants of all types, from black-tie establishments to casual diners, are a local highlight. However, the city’s music scene may be its best-kept secret. The Denton Arts and Jazz Festival , Denton Blues Festival , and Make Music Day are annual highlights. UNT’s renowned College of Music bolsters the music community, too. 

Denton homes for sale | Denton houses for rent | Denton apartments for rent  

8. Richardson, TX

A suburb just 20 minutes from downtown Dallas, Richardson is the eighth-best place to live in Texas. Economic stability , an abundance of housing, and delicious food are the city’s main calling cards. Housing prices are relatively expensive, though, with sale and rental prices sitting above the national average. 

Richardson is best known for its telecommunications industry. In fact, the city is often referred to as the Telecom Corridor due to the concentration of companies like AT&T, Cisco, and Texas Instruments. This abundance helped move the city beyond a small suburb, and currently makes the area appealing to professionals. 

Even though Richardson is a relatively quiet, business-focused suburb, you won’t easily run out of things to do. You can play more than 80 retro games at Free Play Arcade (not actually free), sip a beer from Guitars and Growlers , or see a show at the Eisemann Center for Performing Arts . Live music is a big deal in Richardson, too. 

Richardson homes for sale | Richardson houses for rent | Richardson apartments for rent

9. College Station, TX

College Station, known as The Heart of Aggieland®, is located in Central Texas between Dallas, Austin, and Houston. Texas A&M’s flagship campus is situated in the heart of the city, around which residential neighborhoods, parks, and other amenities are located. The city of Bryan is directly adjacent, to the northwest. Strong education and an affordable cost of living helped College Station earn a high score. 

College Station is well and truly a college town. More than 71,000 Texas A&M students live in the city, accounting for well over half its population. Many of the city’s attractions are also attached to the university in some way. For example, the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum , Gary Halter Nature Center , and The Gardens are all on the campus, but welcome everyone who wants to visit. Beyond campus limits, you can find places like the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park and BigShots Golf . 

You will also find plenty of restaurants in town beloved by students and longtime residents alike. The Northgate district is where you’ll find most student hotspots, including Nam Cafe and the iconic Dixie Chicken , A&M’s favorite watering hole. To the south, Stella Southern Cafe and Urban Table are great spots for people of all ages. 

College Station homes for sale | College Station houses for rent | College Station apartments for rent

10. Plano, TX

Plano is a dense suburb of Dallas but has recently become a city in its own right. A strong economy, high per-capita income, and plenty of popular amenities help make Plano a great place to live. It will cost quite a bit more to buy a house than surrounding areas, though – nearly $200,000 more than Dallas proper.

Plano saw a massive surge in growth from 1970-2020 , increasing nearly 15x. As a result of this booming population, and a business-friendly environment , numerous Fortune 1000 companies now have headquarters in the city, including JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Toyota, Liberty Mutual, and more. If you’re looking to relocate for a career, Plano may be the place for you. 

Most popular amenities in town are located at one of many malls, such as Preston Park Village , Park Pavilion Center, and Lakeside Market . Other unique amenities, like the Japanese food and goods store Mitsuwa Marketplace , can be found along main boulevards. 

Plano homes for sale | Plano houses for rent | Plano apartments for rent

House hunting made easy

Methodology.

Redfin’s Best Places to Live rankings are meant to help home searchers make an informed decision when choosing where to live. To attempt to measure the overall quality of a metro area, each ranking takes into account several key factors, including access to healthcare, open outdoor space, navigability, housing trends, employment statistics, income, and travel time to work. Only metros with a population of 100,000 or greater were considered for our Texas list. More information about our methodology can be found here .

Data valid June 2024. This article is for informational and educational purposes only.

Jamie is part of the content marketing team and is passionate about climate change, housing affordability, and housing market trends. His dream home is a small, modern, and minimalist forested home where he can hear the wind blowing at night.

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10 Best Places to Live in the South, According to Local Real Estate Experts

Here’s where to look if you’re thinking about relocating to the Southeastern U.S.

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The American South — which encompasses more than a dozen states, from Virginia to Florida, Texas, and Arkansas — is one of the most diverse regions in the United States. Not only is it home to some of the country’s most dynamic cities and charming small towns, but it also claims a large portion of the Appalachian Mountains, thousands of miles of coastline, and millions of acres of rolling hills and lush farmland.

Many people associate it with moderate to warm temperatures, though many Southern states boast a true four-season climate. Take North Carolina, for example. In the summer, enjoy the sun, sand, and surf in the Outer Banks; come autumn, the mountains host some of the best fall foliage in the nation. And when winter arrives, you can take to the slopes at six different ski resorts.

These factors, plus a generally slower lifestyle, lead to highly favorable living conditions. Some Southern destinations, however, are better suited for new residents than others, so we spoke to several local real estate experts to compile a list of the best places to live in the South — based on standards of living, recreational activities, and housing opportunities. See which ones made the cut below. 

Charleston, South Carolina

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U.S. News & World Report's latest ranking for the best places to live in the United States included several Southern destinations — including Charleston, South Carolina . “Its proximity to the ocean and vibrant nightlife are magnificent,” Christine Quillin , an affiliate broker and partner with Parks Real Estate at Compass , tells Travel + Leisure . “It is truly suitable for young professionals and families looking to plant their roots.”

According to Zillow, the average Charleston home value is currently around $567,000 which is higher than the overall U.S. housing market average of around $360,000, although you’re likely to find better deals outside of downtown Charleston. Redfin notes that North Charleston, Goose Creek, and Ladson are some of the more affordable Charleston suburbs, and they’re all within driving distance of the Holy City’s beaches, historical sights, and cultural activities. John Darby, president and CEO of The Beach Company , also shares that Johns Island is a great alternative to the downtown area, as it’s a “charming escape from busy city life and [has] an easy-going lifestyle,” not to mention it’s seeing “newer communities such as Kiawah River attracting [both] locals and out-of-towners discovering the sea island lifestyle.”

Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley

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“Recently, we've been seeing a significant increase in homebuyers moving to the more rural parts of the state, such as the Shenandoah Valley in Western Virginia,” says Ryan Price, chief economist of the Virginia Realtors Association . “These rural areas offer natural beauty and a slower pace than many suburban and urban areas.” Price also shares that with remote and hybrid work opportunities, as well as expanding broadband internet availability, there’s been more demand for smaller cities like Harrisonburg, Waynesboro, Lexington, and Staunton.

“People are finding more value in terms of the home sizes, land, and lifestyle, while still being close enough to drive to the job centers a couple days per week,” he adds. For example, Zillow estimates that in Staunton, the average home value is around $289,000, more than $70,000 less than the national average.

Charlotte, North Carolina

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“The Charlotte real estate market truly offers something for everyone,” says Kate Terrigno , a realtor with Corcoran HM Properties , who shares that Myers Park, Dilworth, Plaza Midwood, and South End are some of the most desirable neighborhoods in the Queen City. “These neighborhoods offer a combination of historical charm, modern amenities, green spaces, and convenient access to the city's core.” For a more residential feel, she recommends Myers Park. Both Dilworth and Plaza Midwood are more walkable, and South End, she notes, is “a hub for professionals and is characterized by its trendy lofts, apartments, and modern townhomes.”

While the average home value in Charlotte is around $400,000 , slightly higher than the national average, this is a destination that truly combines the best of everything: public transportation, an international airport, top-rated restaurants, a growing brewery scene, professional sports, and more.

Lafayette, Louisiana

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“We call it the Hub City, as in the hub of Acadiana. Lafayette is the center of all things southwest of the Mississippi River in Louisiana, with a strong French influence in the way we speak, dance, eat, and laugh,” says Arla Slaughter , a realtor with Latter & Blum and Compass. Here, the average home value is about $219,000 , and U.S. News & World Report named it the best place to live in Louisiana in 2024-2025 . It earned this title due to its culinary offerings, festival calendar, and exciting live music scene. “The world over comes to our free music festivals, where we dance with abandon while holding [our] favorite beverage,” says Slaughter. Whether you’re purchasing a house or renting an apartment — according to RentCafe , the average rent in Lafayette is $1,084 — you’ll have unparalleled access to the amazing cultural celebration that is the Festival International De Louisiane , as well as a lineup of smaller musical events throughout the year.

Dallas, Texas

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“Dallas emerges as a top choice… for its dynamic economy, cultural diversity, and favorable living costs,” says Graham Sowden, chief investment officer at RREAF Holdings , a private real estate investment and development firm. Though downtown Dallas has experienced climbing real estate prices in recent years, U.S. News & World Report notes that the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area “offers a better value than similarly-sized metro areas when comparing household costs with median household income.”

If the average Dallas home value, estimated by Zillow to be around $320,000 , isn’t in your budget, consider exploring more affordable suburbs. Places like Duncanville, Irving, Mesquite, and Wilmer are all within 20 miles of Dallas, giving their residents relatively easy access to all the Dallas highlights — including its international airport, art galleries, museums, and ever-impressive roster of hotels and restaurants. 

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

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Charleston may tempt home buyers with its waterfront communities and public beaches, but it’s not the only South Carolina city with real estate opportunities and appealing weather. Historically known as a tourist town, Myrtle Beach makes its way to this list due to its relatively lower home prices. Zillow shares that the average Myrtle Beach home value is currently about $308,000, and Redfin reports that homes sold for a median price of $286,000 in April 2024.

Given the city’s association with tourism, it’s no surprise that leisure is a top priority in the area. Myrtle Beach has a number of golf courses, two beautiful state parks, and a seemingly endless number of places to swim, fish, sunbathe, and go boating — all of which can be equally enjoyed by retirees, families, and young professionals.

Franklin, Tennessee

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There are a few reasons Franklin, Tennessee’s population increased by 33 percent from 2010 to 2020, according to population numbers provided by the United States Census Bureau . “It has small-town charm, and its proximity to downtown Nashville offers the best of both worlds,” says Quillin, who shares that its residents enjoy “trendy restaurants, quaint antique shops, and even a captivating downtown square.” As an added bonus, she notes that “Franklin has one of the best school systems in Tennessee.”

It’s important to note, however, that Franklin’s average home value is incredibly steep, so potential home buyers may want to narrow down their real estate search and focus on more affordable neighborhoods like Shadow Green, Rolling Meadows, and Simmons Ridge.

Richmond, Virginia

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Noted by real estate experts as one of the top places to live in Virginia , Richmond is the definition of a livable city. Within the capital of Virginia, you’ll find all of the amenities you’d expect from a thriving metropolis: art museums, historical sites, several universities, and one of the best culinary scenes in the South. Still, there’s an inherent small-town feel to the 226,000-person city, and its access to the great outdoors and the James River is much appreciated by residents.

Zillow reports the average home value in Richmond has risen 5.7 percent in the last year — now almost $360,000 — and Redfin details that homes spend a median of nine days on the market. According to Steadily , Richmond has continued to be a seller’s market, but there is still hope for buyers: May 2024 witnessed a 5.1 percent increase in homes for sale compared to April 2024. Though it’s a competitive market, home buyers should make a concerted effort to research each of Richmond’s neighborhoods, determining which one best suits their wants and needs. 

Chattanooga, Tennessee

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“Chattanooga, Tennessee offers beautiful scenery on the Tennessee River [and] a walkable town where you can hike in the morning and enjoy an amazing BBQ in the evening,” says Quillin. Plus, she says, “It has the hustle and bustle of a college town with lots of up-and-coming neighborhoods.” For those who want to be surrounded by history and green spaces, Redfin reports that Alton Park, where the median sale price of homes is $228,000, is a good place to look. Alternatively, there’s East Chattanooga, where homes sell for an average of $180,000.

When the U.S. News & World Report named the Scenic City one of the best places to live in the South, it noted that this relative affordability was one of the top determining factors. Zillow estimates the average home value in the entire city is around $308,000, over 10 percent below the national average.

Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville, Alabama made the top 10 on the U.S. News & World Report ’s 2024-2025 Best Places to Live rankings — a position it earned thanks to its recent growth and overall real estate value. Spurred by the Space Race in the 1960s, Huntsville’s development has historically been directly tied to NASA and the Marshall Space Flight Center as well as Boeing’s facilities. Redfin reports that the technology and engineering job markets continue to thrive, with the addition of a Meta Data Center in 2021.

Modern-day Huntsville has evolved in other areas, too — from shopping and dining to arts and real estate. It’s also incredibly favorable for first-time homebuyers; as of July 2024, Zillow reports that the average home value in Huntsville is around $281,000, significantly below the national average.

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