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.

Love this post? Share it!

1 thought on “33 Charming Small towns in Texas to Visit Now”

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.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

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.

Spread the Love! Please Share This Post on Social Media

While You’re Here, Check Out Our Other Texas Posts:

Visiting the Fredericksburg, TX Wineries (Everything You Need to Know)

5 Reasons to Visit This East Texas Winery

Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard & Winery: The Perfect Weekend Getaway

6 Reasons to Take an East Texas Wine Tour

18 Fabulous Beaches in Texas

10 Awesome Port Aransas Beaches

20 Fabulous Waterfalls in Texas

Fun Things To Do In Kingsland, Texas

Covered Wagon Camping in Texas

50 Awesome Texas Bucket List Experiences

15 Romantic Getaways in Texas

30 Fun Things To Do In Roswell, NM

Ultimate List of Road Trip Essentials

Great Places to See Bluebonnets in Texas

15 Fun Things to Do in Canyon Lake, TX

55 Date Ideas in Fort Worth

101 Ideas for Date Night in Dallas

30 Incredible Day Trips from Dallas

Great Cabins in Canton, Texas

Fabulous Lake Buchanan Cabins

10 1 Travel Experiences for Your Couple’s Bucket List

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight:

We love using CheapOAir, Kayak, and Kiwi to search for the best flight prices. We love using these search engines because they search the web for airlines worldwide to ensure you get the best deal! In addition to flights, you can also find great hotel prices on Kayak and Kiwi.

Book Your Vacation Package:

If you want to book an entire vacation package, we suggest using Expedia. We love how easy Expedia is to use, and we always find good deals on entire vacation packages on their site.

Another great site for vacation packages is BookVIP . BookVIP offers super cheap vacation packages to incredible destinations. You are sure to save money using their site!

For full guided vacations, including hotels, some meals, transportation, and guides, then we book with Trafalgar. Trafalgar is a trusted tour company that will meet all your needs while ensuring a great experience.

Trip.com allows you to book flights, hotels, train tickets, rental cars, airport transfers, tours, and more all on one site. Owned by the parent company that also owns Skyscanner, this is a trusted resource for travel booking and a great “one-stop shop.”

Book Your Accommodations:

We always begin our search by checking out honest reviews on TripAdvisor hotels. This allows us to narrow our search for specific properties once we are ready to book. Of course, you can also book directly on the TripAdvisor site!

There are several accommodation sites that we like to use. One of our favorites is Booking.com because it offers a wide variety of hotels and guesthouses at a good price.

Another “go-to” hotel booking site for us is Hotels.com . We love their loyalty program that allows you to earn free nights, and their “secret prices” for members are fabulous deals!

HotelsCombined is another cool site. They allow you to compare all the top travel sites with one search to ensure you find the best deal out there. Kayak works in this way as well.

If you want a luxurious all-inclusive vacation, consider checking out the Sandals/Beaches properties. Sandals properties are for couples only and Beaches are for families. We have visited Sandals in the past and absolutely love the attention to detail and the service they provide.

Tour Companies We Trust:

We love taking guided tours when visiting new places. Our go-to tour companies are Viator.com and Get Your Guide . Both of these companies have been in business for years and provide excellent customer service. You can trust booking tours from their sites for sure!

For a guided city tour, check out City Sightseeing and BigBus Tours . These bus tours are so much fun and easy to hop on and hop off at top attractions in cities around the world.

CityPass is a great way to save money when visiting large cities. CityPass allows you to get free admission to major attractions once you buy their pass. The savings add up quickly with this pass, often saving 50% with combined admissions.

Another great pass to save money in larger cities is the Sightseeing Pass . This pass allows you to save valuable time and money by combining admissions to major attractions. They also have a handy app that keeps everything you need at your fingertips.

Looking to Save Time and Money?

Check out our resource page for all of our favorite vendors. These companies help us to save time and money on our travels!

Let’s Connect on Social Media!

• Instagram Follow
• Pinterest Follow
• TikTok follow
• Twitter follow
• YouTube follow
• Flickr follow
• facebook link

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.

.css-1shyvki:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-right:-0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-1shyvki:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:none;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:inline-block;}} Best Small Towns .css-unxkmx:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin:0.7rem auto 0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-unxkmx:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:block;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:none;}}

Coastal Meets Country in This Tiny Florida Town

A Texas Town Famous for a Two-Steppin' Christmas

30 Magical Christmas Towns to Visit This Year

The Best Vermont Town To Visit This Fall

The 35 Best Thanksgiving Towns in America

40 of the Cutest Main Streets in the U.S.

Is This the Best Small Town in the Midwest?

40 of the Best Small Towns in California

The Country Girl's Guide to New York's North Fork

Big Easy Livin' Beckons in Covington, Louisiana

The Best Small Town in Every State

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

The 8 Best Small Towns in Texas

From desert art installations to kayak trips through the bayou, here's where to enjoy small-town charm in Texas.

With more than 268,000 square miles, Texas offers lots of room to roam. Seven different regions mean diverse topography abounds, including rolling hills, grasslands, and natural springs in beloved Hill Country; vast canyons and desert mountains in the Big Bend area; hundreds of miles of coastline, as well as estuaries and barrier islands on the Gulf Coast; and towering pine forests that mingle with swamps in the Piney Woods.

Throughout the state, small-town life still largely exists between buzzing metropolises. And though compact, these picture-perfect small towns pack in big-time appeal, with festivals, great hiking, wineries , art installations, historic edifices, and stunning beauty everywhere you turn. Here are eight of the best small towns in Texas.

Luana Rigolli / Getty Images

In far West Texas, between the Davis Mountains and Big Bend, lies Marfa. Known as the filming location for the James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor movie "Giant" and the mysterious Marfa Lights , this small town offers plenty to see and do. Sure, check out the popular Prada Marfa sculpture outside of town for that iconic Instagram photo, but don't miss things like The Chinati Foundation , an internationally known contemporary art museum created by minimalist artist Donald Judd. Nearby, the Ayn Foundation includes works by Andy Warhol, while numerous other galleries in town create an art paradise. Learn about Jewish history during WWII at the Holocaust and Historic Model Ship Museum , grab a Texas-sized burrito at Marfa Burrito , or shop for local artisan goods at boutiques like Cobra Rock and Skóra Marfa . Meanwhile, thrill seekers can take to the sky with Marfa Gliders for a flight over the Marfa Plateau.

Roberto Galan / Getty Images

Between Austin and San Antonio , you'll find Wimberley, a nature lover's Eden. Depending on whether or not the natural aquifer has enough water that year — check the website before you go — you can take a dip at Jacob's Well Natural Area , a swimming hole created from an artesian spring and underground cave system. Nearby, Blue Hole Regional Park offers trails, picnic spots, and an amphitheater, among other fun activities you can enjoy whether or not the swimming hole is open. Road warriors will enjoy driving along the Devil's Backbone , a scenic highway that runs through Wimberley and the surrounding towns. For a panoramic view above Wimberley, climb 218 steps to the top of Old Baldy (Prayer Mountain) for spectacular Hill Country views. Looking for some culture? Head to town for boutique shopping, restaurants, art galleries, and live music.

For history and charm, this pre-Civil War town in East Texas is just the ticket. Jefferson is home to nearly 100 historical landmarks, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Local self-guided walking tours show off historic homes, churches, and buildings throughout the town, including The Excelsior House Hotel and the Jefferson Carnegie Library , the latter of which was funded by American industrialist and steel magnate Andrew Carnegie. Stop by the Jefferson General Store , built in the 1860s, for old-fashioned candy and root beer floats, or the Jefferson Historical Museum , housed in the former federal courthouse and post office. Here, you'll see a magnolia tree that was planted as a seedling by former first lady Lady Bird Johnson. The seedling originated from a tree on the White House lawn that was planted when former President Andrew Jackson was in office. For outdoor pursuits, paddle through bayous at Caddo Lake State Park , a 20-minute drive east.

Known as the Cowboy Capital of the World, Bandera was a staging area for some of the last major cattle drives of the late 1800s — the Great Western Cattle Trail ran from here to Dodge City, Kansas, in its heyday. Home to multiple dude ranches, Bandera is the perfect place to learn how to be a cowboy or cowgirl. At Dixie Dude Ranch , try horseback riding, enjoy a campfire sing-along, or hunt for fossils and arrowheads after a cowboy breakfast on the range. Visitors can also take a trail ride and dance lessons at Mayan Dude Ranch . Check out the more than 5,000 acres of plateaus and canyons at the Hill Country State Natural Area or spend the day kayaking along the Medina River. History buffs will enjoy learning about the area and seeing odd curiosities at the Frontier Times Museum , while those seeking a foot-stompin' good time will find just that at "the biggest little bar in Texas," 11th Street Cowboy Bar .

Dripping Springs

Kristine Pham / Getty Images

Just 25 miles outside Austin , Dripping Springs is a mecca for those who love spirit tastings, as the town is full of distilleries. Stop in at Dripping Springs Vodka for a tasting of its small-batch vodka and gin, or check out Treaty Oak Distilling to sample its whiskey. Deep Eddy Vodka also has a tasting room here. Wineries dot the area, and the Texas Hill Country Olive Co. offers orchard walking tours, olive mill tours, and olive oil tastings. For a bit of nature, check out the Hamilton Pool Preserve , formed by thousands of years of water erosion, which created the collapsed grotto, canyons, and 50-foot waterfall. A quarter-mile trail takes you to the pool, where you can spot golden-cheeked warblers and other bird species along the way. Looking for something a bit less strenuous? Boutique shopping, live music, and dining are plentiful.

Between Austin and Houston , you'll find the tiny town of Round Top, known for its epic antiques show that occurs bi-annually. In the historic district, Henkel Square Market has various shops housed in historic buildings that date back to the 1800s. Visitors will find fine art, jewelry, clothing, and beautiful artwork here. Don't miss Royers Pie Haven , which serves up some of the best pies in the state — the Texas Trash pie is positively sinful. You'll also find plenty of galleries, shopping, and dining, while the Round Top Area Historical Society tells the history of the town. Theater fans will love Shakespeare at Winedale , which holds performances of the Bard's plays in the spring and summer. Snap a pic at the world's smallest Catholic Church , and head out to explore the area's numerous wineries.

Port Aransas

With 18 miles of beaches, Port Aransas, located on Mustang Island on the Gulf Coast, is a haven for anglers and beachgoers. Fishermen can cast a line from the beach or a public fishing pier, or take an off-shore excursion for various fish species. If you visit in the summer, you're bound to see a fishing tournament, or you can try surfing, kayaking, or kiteboarding with a local guide. Visit Farley Boat Works to partake in building a boat, or head out on a bird-watching expedition — Port Aransas has six sites along the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail , with hundreds of bird species frequenting the area. The arts community here is also thriving, with numerous studios and galleries, along with the Port Aransas Art Center and the Port Aransas Community Theatre . Nightlife is also popular, with bars and restaurants regularly hosting musical acts.

Johnson City

Raul Rodriguez / Getty Images

Known for being the home of former President Lyndon B. Johnson, Johnson City is a Hill Country escape full of beauty and history. Visit the former president's boyhood home , where he lived from the age of five until his 1924 high school graduation. Its 1920s-era furnishings offer a glimpse of what rural life in Texas was like at the time. At the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park , visit the LBJ Ranch, which includes the Texas White House , where Johnson spent time during his presidency. Just up the road at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site , meander down nature trails while passing bison and longhorn, tour historic cabins built by a German immigrant, and visit the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm , where park rangers in period costumes show what life on the farm was like in the 1800s. Wine enthusiasts can head down State Highway 290 for numerous wineries showcasing Texas wines.

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.

Follow Us on Social Media

Join the texas travel community and get a free texas bucket list checklist.

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.

Spread the Love! Share This Post On Social Media!

You Might Also Like These Posts:

Weekend Getaways in Texas

65 Awesome Texas Quotes and Texas Captions

8 Wineries in East Texas You Must Visit

5 Reasons to Visit Addison Oktoberfest

11 Reasons to Visit Kingsland, TX

14 Fun Lakes In Dallas (& Nearby)

7 Fun Things to Do in Muenster, TX

16 Fun Things to Do in Georgetown, TX

21 Fun Things to Do in Denton, Texas

12 Lakes in Austin (& Nearby) You Will Love

Castroville, TX: 9 Reasons to Visit the Little Alsace of Texas

Austin to Fredericksburg: The Perfect Weekend Road Trip

41 Free Things to Do in Houston

14 Great Dallas Beaches

15 Fun Things to Do in Canyon Lake, TX

7 Perfect Texas Road Trips

Lakes in Houston That Are Worth a Visit

14 Great State Parks Near Dallas

Great Lavender Fields in Texas and Lavender Festivals to Visit

23 Fabulous Things to Do in Corpus Christi

Driving from Dallas to San Antonio: Stops and Tips

Weekend Getaways from Dallas: 20 Great Choices

Hiking in Dallas: 20 Great Hiking Trails In (& Near) Dallas, Texas

Souvenirs From Texas That Make Great Texas Gifts

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.

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.

Friday 14th of April 2023

You ever been to canton, cause it's east of Dallas, not west

Monday 17th of April 2023

We have...plenty of times. It was just a typo. Those things happen and I have corrected it. Thanks for bringing it to my attention. You could have probably done it in a nicer way though!!!

Thursday 16th of March 2023

I love Texas! Worked there and wish I had more time to explore the state. this is a beautiful city. This is a great guide

Tuesday 21st of March 2023

Thank you so much!

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

12 Best Small Towns In Texas For Lone Star Charm

Add these Texan gems to your travel bucket list.

All 270,000 square miles of Texas have plenty of travel appeal. Between the bustling cities  to the tiny honky-tonk towns, it'd be nearly impossible to see and do it all—but you can certainly try. Find the Lone Star State's spirit through its charming small towns where friendly smiles and Southern hospitality are still the norms, and you're rarely far away from a Tex-Mex taco or piled-high  barbecue sandwich .

While innumerable places and sights are worth visiting, we've rounded up our favorite Texas towns in every part of the Lone Star State. Here are the best small towns in Texas.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Located in the thick of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg has held onto its German heritage with biergartens on its Main Street (which also has plenty of galleries, restaurants, and boutiques for all-day perusing) and an annual Oktoberfest celebration each fall. This part of Texas, known as "wine country," has over 100 wineries and tasting rooms in and outside town for entertainment and education of Texas grapes.

New Braunfels, Texas

New Braunfels has long been a favorite family destination for Texans for more reasons than one, starting with its position along the Guadalupe River, which is a popular route for floating on rafts and inner tubes during warm months. It's also home to the oldest live music dance hall in Texas, Gruene Hall, in the historic district near the beloved rustic eatery, the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar. (Tip: Get the chicken-fried steak. It's as authentic as it gets.)

Boerne, Texas

If you're looking for old-fashioned fun,  Boerne (pronounced BUR-nee) is where to grab a Coke float and feel transported back in time. Located only about half an hour from San Antonio and less than two hours from Austin, the town is primarily centered around a lively downtown district known as the Hill Country Mile, which consists of the Main Street drag lined with dozens of antique shops and specialty stores, including The Dienger Trading Co.

Round Top, Texas

It's easy to get distracted by the twice-yearly antiques fair extravaganza in Round Top , where you can score all sorts of unexpected goodies, but this town has much more to it than just shopping. Visit Royer Round Top Café, a family-run institution since 1987, for a slice of their famed pies, such as the Original Buttermilk Pie and the Texas Trash Pie . The  converted silos  in Round Top are available for a one-of-a-kind glamping experience.

Port Aransas, Texas

We'd be remiss to ignore Texas' Gulf Coast, and Port Aransas —a town of around 4,000—can be found on Mustang Island, a barrier island just off the mainland. Known for the abundant fishing nearby, it's a treasure trove of boating charters and fresher-than-fresh seafood restaurants steps from the marina. You're rarely ever further than a quick walk or golf-carting traipse away from the beach. (Golf carts are the main transportation around town.)

Grapevine, Texas

It's almost impossible to get bored in this  nostalgic town  just 30 minutes from Dallas via car. You'll find winery tasting rooms and plenty of shopping in the historic downtown. Take a ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, a unique experience on authentic 1920s Victorian coaches, or plan a visit to the kid-friendly LEGOLAND Discovery Center. You can even catch a Christmas Wine Train in December.

Marathon, Texas

This West Texas town is just a short distance from Big Bend National Park, one of the country's  most majestic natural areas . Back in town, Marathon's center of gravity is undoubtedly the  Gage Hotel , a carefully restored historic property opened in 1927 by wealthy local rancher Alfred Gage, which is the perfect spot to wind down after a day of hiking.

Johnson City, Texas

Johnson City usually rings a bell in Texans' minds for two reasons. First, it's the hometown of former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson. Secondly, it is famous for throwing one of the biggest  "lights spectacular" holiday events  in the South—with over one million twinkling lights draped across the town square and streets for visitors to stroll through or drive through with hot chocolate. To top it off, come summertime, the local peaches are delightful.

Dripping Springs, Texas

Hamilton Pool Preserve, a unique grotto with a 50-foot cascading waterfall, is an obvious attraction near this Texas Hill Country town. But Dripping Springs has plenty to do in its own right, like an award-winning olive orchard, two-stepping at Mercer Dancehall, plenty of authentic barbecue, and the Deep Eddy Vodka Tasting Room.

Brenham, Texas

Make a pit stop midway between Austin and Houston, and you'll come upon the home of Blue Bell Creameries. The famous ice cream maker has occupied a factory in Brenham since 1911, and you can see for yourself how the magic happens (and get a taste of the goods, of course). This little town is also packed with historic buildings dating back to the 1860s. Ride the old wooden carousel at Fireman's Park, stop at a brewery or winery, and admire the fields of wildflowers if you're lucky enough to visit during bluebonnet season.

Bastrop, Texas

Visit Bastrop

Thanks to its location only 30 minutes from Austin, this small Texas town has had a renaissance. In town, you can catch a show at the Bastrop Opera House, built in 1889, or check out the shops and galleries. You'll find comfort food of every kind in Bastrop , along with farm-to-table experiences at restaurants like the Store House Market & Eatery. The town is situated on the banks of the Colorado, with outfitters that provide easy access to kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

Granbury, Texas

This town in north Texas about an hour from Fort Worth will make you feel like you've traveled back in time—but with the charming shops and eateries we expect today. Granbury's courthouse square dates back to the 1890s and was the first courthouse square in Texas to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The 1886 opera house hosts performances year-round, while the Granbury Historic Railroad Depot will remind you of frontier times. There's plenty to see outside of town, too: wineries and breweries, Lake Granbury's watersports and sandy beach, and Dinosaur Valley State Park, which is just a half-hour drive away.

Related Articles

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for traveling the great state of Texas

VERY TRULY TEXAS

Best Small Towns in Texas (+ why you’ll want to visit them!)

Texas is known for its larger-than-life personality, but it’s the small towns in Texas that truly capture the heart and soul of the Lone Star State! You’ll find charming Main Streets, scenic natural beauty, rich history and culture, adorable cafes, and beautiful holiday events.

One of the best things about small towns in Texas is their unique character. Each town has its own distinct personality, shaped by its history, geography, and local culture. Gruene, a small town established by German farmers in the 1840s, is known for its historic dance hall, while Fredericksburg is a charming escape for foodies and history buffs in the heart of Texas Wine Country.

We live in smack dab in the middle of Texas and absolutely love to explore all the small towns surrounding us! My personal favorite currently is beautiful Wimberley with its artsy cowboy boot street décor and stunning swimming holes. If the holidays are near, then you will find me in festive Boerne or charming Johnson City!

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, there’s a small town (or three!) that’s sure to capture your heart. From scenic drives to local festivals, there’s always something happening in small towns in Texas!

Best Small Towns in Texas

Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor adventure, these small towns in Texas are perfect for next day trip or Texas road trip itinerary. We love each of them for their uniqueness, activities, tasty food, small town charm, and beautiful views!

You’ll find that many of these towns are in the beautiful Hill country, and that’s because it is a gorgeous area of Texas and Hill Country has so many things to do!

In no particular order….drum roll, please!

Fredericksburg

• Location on the Map
• Closest Big City: Austin (1.5 hours) + San Antonio (1 hour)
• Known for: German history + tasty peaches + wineries

While we often say “located in the heart of Texas Hill Country,” Fredericksburg is a quaint town actually located right in the middle of Hill Country. With it’s German heritage that is reflected in its architecture, food, and festivals, you can soak up some deep Texas history on a relaxing getaway here.

No doubt, Fredericksburg is one of the most popular small towns in Texas on our list. Everyone we know (including us!) has been there numerous times to wine taste, shop, relax in a beautiful hotel or cottage, and discover the history.

Stroll along Main Street, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, or explore the town’s historic sites, such as the Pioneer Museum and the National Museum of the Pacific War . Fredericksburg is also known for its wineries, which offer tastings and tours, as well as beautiful views.

During peach season, early to mid summer, the peach orchards around Fredericksburg are bursting with ripe fruit ready to offer you a juicy snack! Stop by a roadside stand for some fruit or homemade ice cream, or better yeast, head to Jenschke Orchards and pick your own !

Wildflower season is the most beautiful time of year to visit this Texas small town. The hills are covered in Texas bluebonnets , among other gorgeous blooms, so a scenic drive and a picnic is definitely in order. Willow City Loop is a popular path, and Wildseed Farms (with free entry!) will be bursting with color and photo spots. This is also the perfect time of year to explore the state parks near Fredericksburg , such as Enchanted Rock or Lyndon B. Johnson Historic Site.

>>> Read More about Fredericksburg:

• A Magical Guide to a Christmas in Fredericksburg
• Road Trip Guide from Austin to Fredericksburg
• Beautiful Flower Farms in Texas
• Location on the Ma p
• Closest Big City: Austin + San Antonio (1 hour away from both)
• Known for: Blue Hole + Jacob’s Well + natural beauty + charming downtown

Wimberley is a charming town also in the Texas Hill Country that is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. You can swim in the clear waters of Wimberley’s Blue Hole (this natural spring is our FAVORITE summer spot!), hike along the trails in Jacob’s Well Natural Area (currently closed for swimming), or browse the shops and galleries in the town square.

We also LOVE the nature paths along the water at Cypress Creek Nature Preserve ! This hidden gem is beautifully green and there are picnic tables available as well.

Wimberley is also home to the EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens , which hosts outdoor performances and events throughout the year. During the holiday season, they host the most beautiful Trail of Lights – one of the best things to do in Wimberley !

Johnson City

• Known for: LBJ history + peaches + waterfalls

Johnson City is a charming, picturesque small town that is one of my favorites on this list. Every time I visit or just drive through on beautiful Highway 71, it makes me smile!

In this Texas small town, you will find true hospitality and a rich historical legacy. The rolling hills and clear blue skies provide a stunning backdrop to a town that has managed to preserve its small-town charm . Quaint, locally-owned shops line Main Street with unique treasures and local flavors. The town is also home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park which pays tribute to one of America’s most notable presidents.

Johnson City’s natural beauty, with the Pedernales River and Falls nearby provides hiking, bird-watching, swimming, and wildlife. Historic oak trees that grace the town square and light up during the holidays as Johnson City becomes the “ Twinkliest Town in Texas .”

Children will love the interactive Science Mill museum and don’t ever forget to come by during peach season for a box fresh from the peach picking farm !

• Closest Big City: Dallas (three hours away)
• Known for: historical homes + museums + beautiful lake

Located in East Texas, Jefferson is a charming, historic town that was once a bustling river port . You can take a stroll through the historic downtown area, which is home to over 70 historic buildings. The town is also has several museums, including the Jefferson Historical Museum and the Museum of Measurement & Time .

Pop into the General Store for some old-fashioned candy or a drink from the soda fountain. Plan to lodge at a bed and breakfast in one of the beautifully restored Victorian mansions.

Jefferson is located near Caddo Lake which is a great place to head if you love the outdoors. You can take a guided boat tour of the lake, go fishing, or explore the surrounding wetlands on foot. Keep your eye out for alligators – yes, really!

• Closest Big City: San Antonio (1 hour away)
• Known for: History + Dance Hall + Proximity to the River

Gruene (pronounced “green,” you’re welcome :))is a small historic district located in New Braunfels. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town was founded in the 1800s and was once a thriving cotton-producing community.

Today, you can take a stroll through the historic district, which is home to several restored buildings, including the Gruene Hall, which is the oldest dance hall in Texas. If live music is your jam, definitely head to Gruene where you can find it 7 days of the week.

In addition to its historic district, Gruene is also known for its wineries, which offer tastings and tours. You can also explore the the opportunity for Guadalupe River tubing , which is a popular spot and Texas bucket list activity!

• Closest Big City: Dallas (1.5 hours away)
• Known for: history + lake activities

Located southwest of Fort Worth, Granbury is a small town that is known for its historic downtown area. Take a stroll down the town’s main street, which is lined with historic buildings and shops . The town is also home to several museums, including the Hood County Jail Museum , which is housed in a historic jail that was built in 1885.

Nearby Lake Granbury is a popular spot for boating and fishing. You can also take a scenic drive through the nearby Brazos River Valley and soak up the stunning views and rugged terrain.

• Closest Big City: San Antonio ( 1 hour)
• Known for: cowboys + dude ranches + nature

Known as the “ Cowboy Capital of the World ,” Bandera is a great destination for those who love horseback riding and other Western-themed activities. For a extra special stay, book a couple of nights at a dude ranch and immerse yourselves in life on the ranch from sun up to sun down with horses, delicious, campfire meals, archery, lasso lessons, and more.

The town is surrounded by beautiful hill country, making it a great place to hike, bike, or go on a scenic drive. The nearby Medina River offers a spot to kayak, tube, and fish, while the Hill Country State Natural Area is a beautiful state park in Hill Country for camping and hiking.

• Closest Big City: Austin (30 minutes)
• Known for: pine trees + state parks + charming downtown

Located just 30 minutes from Austin, Bastrop is a charming small town that offers plenty of outdoor activities. The town is surrounded by the beautiful Bastrop State Park , which is home to miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing and camping. This is the best place to see pine trees in the Central Texas area – my favorite for a winter hike!

The Colorado River runs through town, offering opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The town is also home to the Lost Pines Golf Club , which is considered one of the best courses in the state.

For an amazing place to stay we highly recommend a stay at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa in Bastrop. This resort is less than an hour from our hometown, but is our favorite getaway spot at a family resort near Austin ! From nightly s’mores to a lazy river and water slide to daily activities and complimentary bikes, this is a great spot to get out in to the country with just a few minutes’ drive from the city.

• Closest Big City: Austin (1 hour)
• Known for: caverns + lakes + bluebonnets

Burnet is a Texas small town that is a great destination for those that love nature and everything there is outdoors. The town is not only home to one state park, but two. Inks Lake State Park is beautifully blue with opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, and swimming. The nearby Longhorn Cavern State Park is a great place to explore underground caves and rock formations.

Check out Highland Lakes Air Museum which houses a collection of vintage aircraft. For a taste of Texas life years ago, head to Fort Croghan for their history museum and to explore their historic cabins and property.

Burnet is also the official Bluebonnet Capital of Texas. I highly recommend visiting in April when the bluebonnets are at peak and Burnet is hosting their annual Bluebonnet Festival !

>> Read More about Burnet:

• Things to Do in Burnet
• Texas State Parks in Hill Country

Marble Falls

• Known for: beautiful lake + adorable downtown + holiday fun

Marble Falls is a charming town that we drive to and through often. This gem attracts visitors with its warm Texan hospitality and a ton of of activities that showcase the beauty of this picturesque town.

Whether you’re strolling along the banks of the serene Lake Marble Falls, eating freshly baked pie at the iconic Bluebonnet Café, or exploring the historic Main Street lined with boutique shops and quaint cafes, Marble Falls offers a beautiful blend of nature and culture.

Falls on the Colorado River is an informative museum that you will give you some background on the history of the town. Wine enthusiasts can savor the local wineries and vineyards that dot the surrounding landscape.

When it comes to Texas Christmas towns , Marble Falls is one of the best! Their holiday calendar is loaded with merry activities from ice sculpting to lights to ugly sweater contests.

>> Read More about Marble Falls:

• Sweet Things to do in Marble Falls
• Marble Falls Christmas Lights

Port Aransas

• Closest Big City: San Antonio ( 2.5 hours)
• Known for: beaches + fishing + seafood + golf carts

Along the Texas Gulf Coast, is beautiful Port Aransas – one of our very favorite Texas beach towns . You may hear this coastal small town referred to as “Port A” by the Texans who know and love it well.

You’ll find beautiful beaches that are perfect for unwinding, swimming, and even some fishing by boat or from the shore. If you’ve ever dreamed of conquering the waves, Port Aransas is the perfect place to take surf lessons near the popular pier.

Whitecap Beach is our family favorite for some great boogie boarding and soft sand ( we stayed in this condo nearby on our last trip over Memorial Day- it was fantastic!).

A short drive down the island will bring you to the majestic Padre Island National Seashore , a sprawling stretch of natural beauty, where you can observe sea turtles, go birdwatching, and explore the dunes. A few times a year, typically summer months, you can even observe a sea turtle release at sunrise.

To immerse yourself fully in the island’s charm, rent a golf cart in Port Aransas . It’s the town’s unofficial mode of transportation, and check out the colorful beach town streets cute boutiques, art galleries, souvenir shopping, and seafood shacks that offer the freshest catch of the day.

• Closest Big City: San Antonio (1/2 hour)
• Known for: caverns + shopping + holiday fun

Boerne is a captivating small town just north of San Antonio that is filled to the brim with charm and sweetness. With its historic Main Street, you’ll find boutique shops, art galleries, and tasty restaurants, making it perfect for an afternoon of browsing.

The Cibolo Nature Center and Herff Farm offer the perfect place to explore for nature lovers, with hiking trails, wildlife observation, and educational programs that highlight the region’s natural beauty. Don’t miss a visit to Cave Without Name and Cascade Caverns to explore the stunning underground formations.

Boerne also hosts a variety of amazing annual events, like the Hill Country Mile Rod Run, where classic cars line the streets, and the charming Dickens on Main, a festive Boerne Christmas celebration that transports you back to the Victorian era with food, entertainment, costumes, and music.

• Closest Big City: San Antonio (1.5 hours)
• Known for: beautiful river + tubing + state parks

Concan is a hidden gem with a tiny population, but incredible beauty. With its breathtaking Frio River winding through the town, it’s a a great spot for outdoor activities and nature lovers. Spend your days tubing or kayaking down the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax by the riverbanks and soak up the sun.

Garner State Parkoffers hiking trails, camping spots, and evening dances under the stars during the summer. Concan is also known for the popular Neal’s Lodges, a family-owned and operated retreat that has welcomed generations of visitors to its rustic cabins and provides easy access to the area’s natural beauty. C

Come enjoy the vibrant local music scene, experiencing the annual Fourth of July fireworks display, epic summer floating the Frio , or mouthwatering BBQ at the various local eateries.

• Closest Big City: Dallas (1 hour)
• Known for: farms + kolaches + Czech history

The Texas small town of West is a warm and welcoming place with a taste of Czech culture, small-town charm, and true farm life.

One of the town’s most cherished highlights is the iconic Slovacek’s West Bakery, where the aroma of freshly baked kolaches, a Czech pastry delight, fills the air. These treats, a nod to the town’s Czech heritage, are a must-try, and you’ll find an array of flavors to choose from. If you want to bakery hop – we highly recommend it! – you’ll also love Gerik’s Ole Czech Bakery & Deli, West Donuts & Kolaches Shop, and Oak Street Bakery.

As you stroll through the town, don’t miss a short drive to Western Belle Farm , a picturesque farm that showcases the beauty of the Texan countryside. Here, you can enjoy hayrides, explore their friendly petting zoo, take plenty of photos at their themed areas, travel the corn maze, try the zipline, and more. Pick your own flowers and strawberries in the spring and pumpkins in the fall.

• Closest Big City: Austin (1.5 hours)
• Known for: history + live music

Luckenbach, population 3, wraps up this list of the best small towns in Texas. Yep, Luckenbach is the tiniest of towns but it packs a big punch! Stop by the old post office that that still hosts regular events with live music, dancing, and a rich history of the area.

Most afternoons, and weekend evenings, you’ll find a great line up of musicians and a relaxing good time under the oak trees. Check out their event calendar here .

Texas Small Town Festivals and Events

Texas is known for its vibrant and unique festivals, but many people don’t know about the charming small-town festivals that take place all around the Lone Star State. Here are some of the most popular small-town festivals in Texas.

Texas Blueberry Festival

The Texas Blueberry Festival is held annually in Nacogdoches, Texas, in the heart of the East Texas Piney Woods. This festival, which is usually held in June, celebrates the blueberry harvest with a variety of activities for the whole family. Visitors can enjoy live music, a car show, a 5K run, a pet parade, and more. Of course, there are also plenty of blueberries to sample, including blueberry ice cream, blueberry pancakes, and blueberry lemonade – seriously delicious!

Texas Mushroom Festival

The Texas Mushroom Festival is held annually in Madisonville, Texas, in October. This festival celebrates the unique and delicious mushrooms that grow in the area. You can enjoy a variety of mushroom-themed activities, including a mushroom cook-off, a mushroom-growing workshop, and a mushroom hunt. There are also plenty of other activities for the whole family, including live music, a carnival, and a parade.

Texas Rose Festival

The Texas Rose Festival is held annually in Tyler, Texas, in October. This festival celebrates the beautiful roses that grow in the area, and visitors can enjoy a variety of rose-themed activities, including a rose show, a rose parade, and a rose garden tour. There are also plenty of other activities for the whole family, including live music, a carnival, and a craft fair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some affordable small towns in texas.

Texas has a plethora of affordable small towns that offer a great quality of life without breaking the bank. Some of the most affordable small towns in Texas include Pecos, Monahans, and Kermit. These towns have a low cost of living, affordable housing options, and plenty of amenities to make life comfortable.

What are the best small towns to retire in Texas?

Texas is a great place to retire, and there are plenty of small towns that offer a great quality of life for retirees. Some of the best small towns to retire in Texas include Fredericksburg, Georgetown, and Boerne. These towns have a low cost of living, plenty of amenities, and a relaxed pace of life that is perfect for retirees.

What are some underrated small towns in Texas?

Texas has many small towns that are underrated and often overlooked by visitors. Some of the most underrated small towns in Texas include Burnet, Wimberley, and Granbury. These towns offer a unique charm, beautiful scenery, and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

What are the best small towns in central Texas?

Central Texas is home to many charming small towns that offer a unique Texas experience. Some of the best small towns in central Texas include Fredericksburg, Wimberley, and New Braunfels. These towns offer beautiful scenery, great food, and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

What are some small towns near Dallas, Texas?

If you’re looking for small towns near Dallas, Texas, you won’t have to look far. Some of the best small towns near Dallas include McKinney, Grapevine, and Denton. These towns offer a relaxed pace of life, great food, and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

What are some good small towns in Texas to explore in winter?

Winter is a great time to explore small towns in Texas, and there are plenty of towns that offer a unique winter experience. Some of the best small towns in Texas to explore in winter include Fredericksburg, Wimberley, and Boerne. These towns offer beautiful scenery, great food, and plenty of winter activities to keep visitors entertained. Grapevine is the perfect small town for Christmas festivities.

Sierra Schmidt is the founder of Very Truly Texas as well as the lead writer and photographer. She is a Texas local living near Austin in the beautiful Texas Hill Country and exploring every inch of this vast state.

She provides detailed itineraries, inspiring images, and hidden gems to encourage locals and visitors to discover their own next adventure in the great state of Texas!

Similar Posts

18 Beautiful Natural Springs in Texas (that you can swim in!)

Beautiful Lakes in Texas with Cabins

Things to Do in Georgetown Texas

Most Beautiful Places to See Brenham Bluebonnets in 2024

A Magical Guide to a Fredericksburg Texas Christmas

Dallas to Austin Drive: Best Spots to Stop

Leave a reply cancel reply.

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

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

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

15 Most Charming Small Towns in Texas

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.

Share this post:

12 Best Cities to Visit in Texas

16 Best Places to Visit in Texas

12 Best Beaches in Texas

7 Most Beautiful Regions of Texas

25 Top Tourist Attractions in the USA

25 Best Places to Visit in the USA

10 Best National Parks in Texas

27 Top Tourist Attractions in San Antonio

12 Best Things to Do in El Paso, Texas

15 Best Things to Do in Houston, Texas

Reader interactions.

June 10, 2019 at 9:35 am

Georgetown is north of Austin and south of Belton.

January 25, 2019 at 9:06 am

where is georgetown?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

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.

Related Posts

10 Offbeat Things To Do In Amarillo, Texas

Top Things To Do In Las Colinas Texas

Top Things To Do In San Marcos Texas

12 Best Restaurants In Allen Texas

12 Beautiful Sunsets In Texas You Need To See

Best Beaches In Texas For A Weekend Getaway

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!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Notify me of new posts by email.

What are you looking for?

• National Parks
• Tiny Houses

The 11 Best Small Towns in Texas To Visit This Year

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski August 09, 2021 Updated March 14, 2022

Sure, the shows, bars, and events in cities are fun and all, but many of the small towns in Texas deliver big on charm and entertainment, too.

In Texas, the major metropolises of Austin, Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio each have their individual appeals, but the same holds true for the small towns in Texas you’ll find around the state. From a quaint community in  wine country to a ghost town in the desert to a beach retreat on the coast, there are a variety of landscapes, histories, and activities to explore in the quieter corners of the state. Texas isn’t all just cowboys and honky-tonks, after all.

Whether you’re looking for some interesting places to stop by on a road trip or simply want to get away from the stress of big-city living for a while, these are the best small towns in Texas to explore this summer and beyond.

Related read: 12 Unique Places to Stay in Texas

1. Fredericksburg

A small town in Texas might not be the first place you think of when dreaming about a wine country getaway, but Fredericksburg should definitely be on your travel bucket list if you love all things pinot and chardonnay.

In the heart of the Hill Country, Fredericksburg is somewhat of a home base for exploring the Texas Wine Country. There are over 40 wineries in the area, and you can either pop into the tasting rooms up and down Main Street or drive out to the many nearby vineyards for some on-site sampling. Book a wine tour if no one wants to skip out on the tasting.

Aside from wine, this charming small town is also known for its boutique shopping, German heritage (evident in many of the restaurants), and the impressive National Museum of the Pacific War.

Related read: The 6 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Texas

No, it’s not just tumbleweeds out in West Texas. Over the years, Marfa, a small town with around 1,800 residents, has gained popularity as an oasis for art lovers. It boats attractions like the Chinati Foundation (a contemporary art museum located in a former military base) and Ballroom Marfa , an internationally recognized cultural space. Oh, and the Prada shop is nearby, too.

Out here, it’s all about taking things slow and enjoying the expansive Texas landscape (and skies). And speaking of the skies, another one of Marfa’s claims to fame is the mystery of the Marfa lights . People from around the world come out to the designated viewing area off the highway near town to see if they can spot the colorful, dancing lights that others have reported seeing around the horizon. The cool Hotel Pasiano has some interesting Hollywood and ghost history.

Related read: The 6 Best Islands in Texas for an Unforgettable Vacation

3. Wimberley

Wimberley is one small town with a pair of great attractions: two of the best swimming holes in all of Texas.  First, there’s Jacob’s Well , a beautiful spring famous for its complex, underwater cave system. Then there’s the Blue Hole , where you can go for a dip under the shade of towering bald cypress trees. If the weather is good, keep the outdoor fun going with a hike up Old Baldy or a visit to Wimberley Zipline .

Shopping is another popular activity in town, and you’ll find plenty of cute boutiques in the town’s downtown Wimberley Square. One Saturday every month from March to December, vendors set up hundreds of stalls at Wimberley Market Day , the largest outdoor market in the Texas Hill Country.

When it’s time to eat, you’ll have your pick of delicious local establishments, but both The Leaning Pear and Wimberley Cafe come highly recommended (expect a wait at both.)

4. Port Aransas

Port Aransas happens to be the only established town on Mustang Island, a barrier island along Texas’ Gulf Coast. Back in the 1800s, pirates used to roam these parts, but these days, the excitement mostly comes from visiting the beach (there are 18 miles of it) and enjoying all that the water has to offer. There’s surfing, jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and so much more.

Called the “Fishing Capital of Texas,” Port Aransas is an excellent destination for anglers who can fish for redfish, flounder, black drum, and trout in the bay and shallow water, or try for tuna, marlin, kingfish, and more out on an offshore excursion. The town is also great for birdwatchers since it’s located in the Central Flyway, which sees hundreds of different bird species pass through annually.

While you’re here, drive down to Mustang Island State Park for even more outdoor recreation.

5. Terlingua

Just a few minutes from  Big Bend National Park , Terlingua is arguably the most famous “ghost town” in the state. Back in the early 1900s, it was a popular mining town before operations ended and people left in droves around the end of World War II. These days, it’s become a quirky tourist destination, especially for those visiting the national park or going on road trips out west. It has a few residents and a few cheesy shops and art installations, but otherwise, it’s pretty much abandoned.

While you’re here, have a meal at the Starlight Theatre and Saloon and check out the old Terlingua Cemetery to soak up some creepy Old West vibes. If you’re planning your trip for November, you may get a chance to visit the famous Terlingua Chili Cookoff, where thousands of people arrive to witness a battle for the best bowl of red — a.k.a. chili, Texas’ official state dish.

Related Read: Sunshine & Solitude: Best Backpacking Routes in Big Bend National Park

6. Port Isabel

Need some vitamin sea? Head south to Port Isabel, near the Mexico border, for a tropical beach vacation. Here, the average temperature is a nice 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the shallow drop-off means the water is pretty warm, too.

From Port Isabel, you can join one of the Sea Life Center Dolphin Educational Boat Tours to catch a sight of dolphins out in the wild. You can also drive less than 15 minutes to reach Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge to bike, fish, hike, or see the more than 130 species of butterflies that visit the refuge in October and November.

Make a quick drive in the other direction over the causeway and you’ll be on South Padre Island, a destination popular with spring breakers but also known for its birding and sea turtle rescue. The South Padre KOA has great little cabins on the waterfront. It’s a small town, but there’s lots to do.

Related Read:   The 6 Best Islands in Texas for an Unforgettable Vacation

7. Jefferson

Jefferson lies east of Dallas, close to the borders with Arkansas and Louisiana. While the exact date of the town’s founding is up for debate, many point to the early 1840s. Jefferson was an important river port for the state and a critical supply point for the Confederacy during the Civil War.

Modern-day visitors can delve into Jefferson’s history by joining a tour , whether that be on foot, by carriage, on a riverboat, or on the historic railway. For even more learning, you can also pay a visit to the Jefferson Historical Museum . Attractions of note in town include the Excelsior House Hotel (one of the oldest hotels in Texas), Jay Gould’s private rail car, The Grove historical house, and the Jefferson General Store. This is certainly a top small town in Texas for travelers who like US history.

You’ll also be near Caddo Lake State Park, where you can kayak or canoe along miles of paddling trails through the swamps and bayous.

8. Marble Falls

Marble Falls: Come for the nature, stay for the pie. It’s not the official town slogan, but it does give you an idea of what makes this small town, founded in 1887, so special. It’s less than an hour from Austin, making it a great small town Texas day trip if you’re after a change of pace for a weekend.

Since Marble Falls straddles the Colorado River, you can enjoy views of the water and set off on a boat from Johnson Park or Lakeside Park. There’s also Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge nearby for hiking and birdwatching, and Hidden Falls Adventure Park for some off-roading.

Now, on to the pie: Marble Falls is home to the beloved Bluebonnet Cafe , which serves exactly the hearty, homey dishes you’d like to find in a quaint small town. The restaurant has been around since 1929 and is particularly famous for its freshly baked pies.

Additional Read: The 10 Best RV Campgrounds in Austin, Texas

9. Granbury

Outside Fort Worth next to the Brazos River, the town of Granbury was voted as the USA Today Reader’s Choice best historic small town in America in 2019 and 2020. As such, you’ll find dozens of historic buildings, including the Old Opera House from 1886.

During your visit, Granbury’s Historic Square is the place to head to first. It was the first downtown square in Texas to be added to the National Historic Register, and it’s where you’ll find plenty of important landmarks, shops, and restaurants. It’s also where you’ll meet for activities like ghost tours or carriage rides.

From there, you can walk to Granbury City Beach and Lake Granbury, where you can while away the time kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, and more. Rentals are available at the marina.

Related Read:   10 Best Hikes in Texas for Top-Notch Lone Star State Scenery

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Gruene is technically a historic district within the city of New Braunfels. But back in the day, it was a prosperous town settled by German immigrants. With its various historic buildings, it still feels like its own little world and visiting this small Texas town is like a trip back in time.

Of these historic buildings, Gruene Hall is the most famous as is the oldest continually operated dance hall in the whole state. Built in 1878, the 6,000-square-foot venue has hosted a slew of great country musicians, including Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and George Strait.

For more things to do, go shopping downtown, spend the afternoon floating the Guadalupe River , and have a meal at one of the local restaurants like Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar.

Related Read:   9 Awesome Cabin & Cottage Rentals Near New Braunfels, Texas

11. Luckenbach

There are small towns in Texas, and then there are the downright tiny towns in Texas — Luckenbach is definitely the latter. It’s named after Jacob Luckenbach, a German nobleman and one of the first settlers in the area, and it consists of a general store, a bar, and a dancehall. That’s it.

You may have heard of the town from the hit country song “ Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love )” by Waylong Jennings. In fact, the main reason to swing by Luckenbach is to catch some live country music, and shows are hosted throughout the year.

While there’s technically nowhere to stay in Luckenbach, Fredericksburg is just a 15-minute drive away.

Explore More in Texas

8 Best Weekend Roadtrips from Dallas, Texas

9 Best Texas Scenic Drives for Enjoying the Lone Star State Countryside

10 Luxury Cabin Rentals in Texas for a Pampered Getaway

10 Cozy Romantic Getaways in Texas for Couples

The 8 Best Texas Lake Camping Destinations

Sign up for the Weekend Wanderer to join thousands of readers getting epic travel and gear ideas every week.

Seen in: Road Trips , Southwest , Texas

Posted by Cindy Brzostowski

Cindy Brzostowski is a freelance writer focusing on travel and other lifestyle content. Originally from Texas, she is currently based in Berlin. Her work has been featured in Travel & Leisure, Thrillist, TripSavvy, Food & Wine, The Infatuation, and more.

When not writing, reading, or eating, you can probably find her making an itinerary for her next adventure or dreaming about pizza.

Find your next adventure

Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly.

Related Posts

While Texas is lucky to have great coastal destinations and warm islands, you shouldn’t overlook the rad possibilities offered inland at one of the state’s many lakes.

5 Incredible Backpacking Excursions in Zion National Park, Utah

Zion averages around 4.5 million annual visitors — but only a handful of those get to see the true wild of the park’s backcountry.

11 Best Scenic Drives in Southern California

Southern California is loaded with beautiful sights, and exploring them on a scenic byway drive is a great way to escape the workday grind.

10 Awesome Things to Do in Winter in Park City, Utah

When the mountains are blanketed with snow, there's never a shortage of things to do in Park City.

7 Spectacular Places to See Arizona’s Fall Colors

Despite its reputation as a gigantic desert full of sand and cactus, Arizona offers plenty of autumn action too.

Backpacking West Fork of Oak Creek: From Populous to Seclusion

The West Fork Trail is one of the most popular and most beautiful trails in the Coconino National Forest. But the crowds thin out after a mile or two — so by backpacking in you leave the masses behind and step into a canyon of wildness and primitivity.

Think Texas is all tumbleweeds and empty desert? A scenic drive in the state will prove just how wrong you are.

9 Awesome Cabin & Cottage Rentals Near New Braunfels, Texas

“Life is good in New Braunfels” — boasts the town saying, so why not come see for yourself?

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

• lol Badge Feed
• win Badge Feed
• trending Badge Feed

Browse links

• © 2024 BuzzFeed, Inc
• Consent Preferences
• Accessibility Statement

20 Of The Best Small Towns In Texas That Are Absolutely Worth Visiting

Let's avoid Elon Musk's ranch, OK?

BuzzFeed Contributor

Texas is a huge and diverse state that's steeped in culture. You'll find everything from cowboys with Wild West lore to Vietnamese shrimping boats and gumbo along the southeastern Gulf beaches.

With the recent stream of techies and millionaires flocking to the larger cities, let's not forget the charming, hidden gems that make up the Lone Star State. Here are 20 of the best small towns in Texas you should visit. (And if I missed your favorite, drop it in the comments!)

Best for:  Experiencing the old Wild West.

Established in 1850, the desert border city of El Paso straddles the Rio Grande on the US–Mexico border. El Paso is the birthplace of many Wild West legends; Pat Garrett, Wyatt Earp, Pancho Villa, and President William Howard Taft all walked the city's first and oldest street, El Paso Street, during the infamous Four Dead in Five Seconds Gunfight in 1881 . Roam around town under the 400-foot-tall manmade star on the side of Franklin Mountain and learn about tall tales of Billy the Kid making his way to Texas (and freeing the only man ever to escape from the old El Paso jail).

Best for:  Aspiring cowboys.

Situated along the historic cattle-driving Chisholm Trail, Bandera is steeped in cowboy culture and features regular rodeo events and shoot-'em-up gunfight shows ( Cowboys on Main ). Pick out a belt buckle, boots, and a cowboy hat at the Bandera General Store and make your way to a dude ranch for a full cowboy experience. 

3. San Marcos

Best for: Water lovers.

Situated just 30 minutes outside of Texas's capital, Austin, San Marcos is a charming town that houses Texas State University and the San Marcos River. During the summer months, you'll find locals tubing down the lazy river and sipping beers. San Marcos also has a thing for mermaids: There are more than 10 mermaid statues around the city, and current Texas Gov. Greg Abbott just named San Marcos "the Mermaid Capital of Texas." If you visit, don't miss great outlet shopping, driving through Hill Country, and taking a tour on a glass-bottom boat .

Best for: Canyon trekkers.

The eponymously named city of Canyon boasts America's second-largest canyon. But before you venture to Palo Duron Canyon State Park to explore the impressive natural landscapes, grab some food and learn more about Canyon's history at the Historic Downtown Square and the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. The state park features trails for horseback riding and hiking, and you can also camp overnight under a gorgeous spread of stars. Every summer the Texas Outdoor Musical extravaganza performs at the Pioneer Amphitheater against the backdrop of canyon walls. 

5. Terlingua

Best for: The gateway to Big Bend.

On the fringes of Big Bend National Park in West Texas is Terlingua, a former quicksilver mining boom-and-bust town. Today it's mostly abandoned, but it retains a beautiful, almost haunting quality. Full of derelict buildings and rusted cars that make visitors contemplate the immutable force of time, Terlingua stays on the map because of its lively food scene. Have a hearty Mexican breakfast at Chili Pepper Cafe, stop off for a drink at the Porch , or chow down at the annual international chili cook-off festival. 

Best for: Artists and creatives.

Another must-see remote West Texas town is Marfa, a former truck stop that has been transformed into a hipster stomping ground, thanks to artists who have flocked to the desert in search of cheap rent and creative inspiration. Large-scale art projects like the Prada installation have been springing up around Marfa since Donald Judd's 1970s giant art installation. Intimate art galleries and thrift stores exist alongside squat casitas and stark skylines under the Marfa Lights  — mysterious glowing orbs that regularly appear at night. 

7. Georgetown

Best for: Family day-trippers.

Georgetown's proximity to the capital make it an appealing Austin suburb, but it's so much more than that. With its plentiful farm-to-table dining options and charming historic architecture, Georgetown is one of Texas's cutest towns. It actually boasts what is commonly called "the most beautiful town square in Texas." Georgetown offers lots of cute wineries and a pretty  lagoon park  just a stone's throw from downtown.

8. Jefferson

Best for : A romantic getaway.

Driving through the quaint East Texas town of Jefferson feels like traveling back in time. The historic downtown area is stocked with rows of antique shops, and just about every corner boasts a charming bed-and-breakfast for couples seeking a quiet getaway. Grab some ribs and brisket at Riverport BBQ , and look for excellent souvenirs in the  Jefferson General Store .

Best for: Austin day-trippers.

Gruene (pronounced "green") is located just an hour from Austin and was founded by German settlers. In fact, the architecture downtown still pays homage to its Bavarian roots. Dance the night away at the Historic Gruene Hall , where country music legends like Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard used to perform, tube down the Guadalupe and Comal rivers, and satisfy your sweet tooth with local handmade treats at the Great Texas Pecan Co . 

10. South Padre Island

Best for: Beaches.

Each spring break, thousands of young Texan teenagers and young adults make the pilgrimage to South Padre Island. This tropical island is just a short ferry ride from the southeast coast. While it gets a reputation as a rowdy spring break locale, there's plenty of room for families and tamer beachgoers, thanks to over 30 miles of sandy beaches. Take a sunset stroll along the Laguna Madre Nature Trail , explore the island on horseback, or hop over the causeway to the tiny, quiet town of Port Isabel . 

11. Amarillo

Best for:  A road trip stop along Route 66.

Amarillo is located on historic Route 66, deep in the Texas panhandle (although Route 66 doesn't technically pass through Amarillo anymore, thus the word "historic").  The free-spirited attitude of the classic American road trip reverberates as you explore  Amarillo's Sixth Street Historic District . After checking out the numerous quirky museums that line the town, bring a can of spray paint to Cadillac Ranch , one of the most popular roadside attractions along Route 66. You'll find 10 Cadillacs with their front ends buried in the sand, all lined up in the middle of the desert and coated in decades of spray paint.

12. Dripping Springs

Best for: Texas swimming holes.

Located about 40 minutes west of Austin, Dripping Springs is home to the Hamilton Pool Preserve swimming hole and lots of craft wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Take a short hike down to the Hamilton Pool Preserve , a lush oasis that is ringed with overhung maidenhair ferns and shady cliffs. If you're planning on visiting, always reserve a spot, because this place fills up! When you're done, quench your thirst at  Twisted X Brewing Co. for craft beer. Learn about sustainable farming practices at Hills of Milk and Honey family farm, and then taste those farm-to-table offerings at Rolling in Thyme and Dough . 

Best for:  Bluebonnets in bloom.

Settled by Czech farmers, the town of Ennis boasts an adorable historic district, an annual polka festival, and great Czech food. If you visit in April, you'll see that Ennis is home to the Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas . During Bluebonnet season, over 40 miles of fields are blanketed by Texas's stunning, iconic wildflowers. 

14. Round Top

Best for: Antiquing.

Round Top is a beautiful, small Texas town best known for its triannual antiques fair , where you can browse 30,000 square feet of antique shops. A large array of antique stores dot the town, including McLaren's , a whimsical spot with London-style double-decker buses out front. Stroll around Henkel Square and Rummel Square, grab a slice of pie from Royers, and drop by St. Martin's Catholic Church, the world's smallest active Catholic church. 

As the name implies, the town of Dublin was founded by an Irish settler. Today it's still known for its many Irish-themed businesses and a huge annual St. Patrick's Day celebration. But the town's deep Irish heritage is not its only standout feature. Dublin is known as the home of Dublin Bottling Works , the original bottlers of the iconic Dr Pepper soda (sadly, the drink is no longer bottled there). 

16. Port Aransas

Best for:  Great fishing.

With a population of just over 4,000 residents, Port Aransas is the largest town on Mustang Island . The beach town draws in fans of deep-sea fishing seeking its excellent fishing areas along the coast. If fishing isn't your thing, you can still enjoy the miles of beautiful beaches on the Gulf of Mexico: Go bird-watching or parasailing, or spot wild dolphins as you explore the ocean. 

17. Lockhart

Best for:  Texas barbecue.

Be sure to arrive in Lockhart with a big appetite and an empty stomach. This is the "Barbecue Capital of Texas," and it's home to an array of legendary barbecue spots, like Black's, Kreuz, and Smitty's, along with many craft breweries to quench your thirst after a big plate of brisket and pulled pork.

Best for: Beer aficionados.

The birthplace of Shiner beer  (a Texas grocery staple), this tiny, 2,000-person town was named after Henry B. Shiner, who donated 250 acres for a railroad right-of-way. The most popular tourist activity in Shiner is visiting Spoetzl Brewery, where the iconic Shiner beer is produced. After a trip to the brewery, check out the adorable little downtown area , which still holds traces of its original German-Czech heritage. 

19. Luckenbach

Best for: Live country music.

With just 13 official residents, Luckenbach is the tiniest of all the small Texas towns on this list. Despite its minuscule size, Luckenbach is an established country music hot spot, with a well-known dance hall that boasts a regular rotation of high-quality live shows. Tear it up at the legendary Luckenbach Dance Hall , and stay overnight at one of the dozens of charming bed-and-breakfasts just 15 minutes away in Fredericksburg.

20. Marble Falls

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts.

Marble Falls is a cute Hill Country town perched on the banks of Lake Marble Falls. It's an ideal destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and downtown day-trippers looking to browse local boutiques. Don't leave the town until you grab a slice of some of the best pie in Texas from the legendary Bluebonnet Cafe.

What's your favorite small town in Texas? Share in the comments!

Share this article.

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

TravelAwaits

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

11 Small Towns With Big Texas Charm You Need To Visit

Travel with me / Shutterstock

• Destinations
• Fredericksburg
• Texas Hill Country
• United States

A rich history, vast landscapes, warm weather — that’s Texas in a nutshell. While it’s known for thriving large cities like Dallas and Houston, the Lone Star State is also home to many charming small towns. I feel blessed to live in a state with so much diversity and so much history — and, of course, lots of small towns that I never get tired of visiting.

I have many good memories of driving through Texas with my family in our green station wagon, playing games in the car. The most memorable times were when my dad would help me find that horse for 20 points, the next word in the ABC game, or that slug bug for a slap. I’ll also never forget the jokes he would tell us while on the road. The funny thing was that he always told us the same jokes over and over, but we loved them every time.

While Texas is full of small towns, my list here consists of towns I’ve visited a time or two and remember fondly. For a real Texas experience, take in a few of these small towns with big charm on your next road trip through the state. Don’t be surprised if you hear the word “howdy” a hundred times!

xradiophotog / Shutterstock

1. Granbury

Granbury is a short drive from Fort Worth and has a wonderful lake to play on. It’s also home to many award-winning bed and breakfasts that are packed with charm. When visiting this small Texas town, walk around the historic town square, especially if you like to shop for unique gifts, antiques, and food items. This is one town I can’t pass without checking out the local antique shops! You can even catch a Broadway production at the old opera house.

LMPark Photos / Shuttertstock

2. Jefferson

Jefferson is a small East Texas town you won’t want to leave! The town is home to some great history museums and a charming downtown. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or hanging out in nature, you’ll have countless activities to choose from. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, check out these outdoor activities near Jefferson that are available all year long, such as kayaking and lake tours. There are a vast number of very nice bed and breakfasts in town in case you want to extend your stay. But be sure to find one that serves breakfast each morning — some do not offer this option.

Dorti / Shutterstock

3. Grapevine

Grapevine never stops growing. It’s home to a quaint downtown, fabulous eateries, the Grapevine Mills Mall , the Gaylord Texan Resort , and lots of popular festivals. During the holidays, Grapevine is like a picture from a storybook, and you’ll want to return again and again. If you’re in this area for Christmas, take a look at these reasons to visit Grapevine during the holidays . If you love large festivals, you may want to visit in May for the Main Street Fest or in September for GrapeFest . Both are family friendly, but the latter serves up wines of all kinds!

ShengYing Lin / Shutterstock

4. Fredericksburg

Every time I write a story about Texas, it seems that Fredericksburg makes my list. This charming town has something for everyone , including rich German heritage, wineries, plenty of shopping, restaurants of all kinds, and awesome nightlife. Don’t skip the restaurants and shops on the town’s side streets! This is a great place to gather your girlfriends for a weekend getaway to tour the wineries. Fredericksburg can also be the ultimate place to go for a romantic getaway or holiday vacation .

There’s a small town between Waco and Austin that you may have passed up a time or two. But, let me tell you, you’re going to want to stop next time. Salado is nothing short of a small town with big charm, especially if you love wine, shopping, and golfing. Make this place your next getaway, and you won’t regret it. You’ll love the boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, lodging options, nature opportunities, and festivals. If you decide to stay the night, find a quaint cottage or hang your bonnet at the Stagecoach Inn , with its newly renovated rooms, Sferra bed linens, and Turkish cotton bath towels.

Pro Tip: Try not to visit on a Sunday or Monday, since many of the shops are closed.

Alizada Studios / Shutterstock

There’s always a good reason to take a trip to Brenham — a big scoop of ice cream for just $1 at the Blue Bell Creameries and Ice Cream Parlor ! But in the spring, the town is covered in brilliant bluebonnets and all kinds of other wildflowers. The Texas state flower springs up around the first of April along Highway 290 East and FM 390. Stop by the visitor center to pick up a bluebonnet map that outlines the best scenic routes. If you’re only visiting for a day, check out our guide to spending a great day in Brenham — but there are plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy for a full weekend.

When visiting Gruene , formerly its own town but now part of the town of New Braunfels , you must visit Gruene Hall , Texas’s oldest operating dance hall. If time allows, take in a show — you never know what the next act will be. Back in the day, George Strait played here a time or two. This small town is full of charm, and the funky shops and good grub are just two of the reasons I love it.

LMPark Photos / Shutterstock

8. Waxahachie

There’s so much to love about Waxahachie . Its stunning Victorian homes are unmatched in the Dallas region, and if you love antiquing, you’ll be spoiled for choice: Waxahachie is located on the Texas Antique Trail, Antique Show Trail, and Vintage Market Trail. Vintage Market Days take place in March and October.

When I was a young woman, I always wanted to spend Christmas in this charming town. Back then, I thought traveling an hour or so away from home was a big deal, so I never ventured out that way. Now that I’m all about travel, this charming small town is high up on my list of road trips to take during the holidays.

For a splurge-worthy day, drive out to Canton for First Monday Trade Days , a full day of outdoor shopping. I have found many unique antiques there, and the last time I went, I stocked up on artificial flowers. My favorite months to go are September, October, and November, since it’s not too hot or too cold, and it’s when you might find spring and summer items marked down. Bring your friends and a massive vehicle, because you will all leave with something!

Note that First Monday always takes place on the weekend before the first Monday of the month. For this reason, there are a couple of months in the year where First Monday happens twice.

Canton is an easy day trip from Dallas , but if you’d like to stay overnight, there are a few bed and breakfasts in town. These book up quickly for First Monday Trade Days, though!

Bradly Hulce / Shutterstock

10. Weatherford

If you love peaches, you’ll want to visit Weatherford in July, despite the heat. Weatherford is known for its Parker County Peach Festival , where everything is peachy for a week, including the burgers! Though it’s hot in July, this peach week is worth a visit just for a sweet taste of the homemade peach cobbler. You can also try H-E-B’s scrumptious peach tea (for free!) and a peach margarita.

Other popular attractions that bring people to Weatherford include the First Monday Trade Days , which take place every weekend before the first Monday of the month, and the beautiful Chandor Gardens . You can check out these two attractions year-round.

Nestled in the Texas Hill Country just north of San Antonio , this lovely German town boasts lots of charm. From one end of Main Street to the other, Boerne offers visitors a wide range of unique shops, restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, and wineries all year long. This street is long, so if you plan to walk it, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. A weekend here is the perfect place for a girlfriends’ getaway or an outdoor experience or two. It’s also a fabulous place just to slow down and unwind.

Travel writer and road trip enthusiast of My Traveling Roads , Kim Croisant, is a proud native Texan passionate about seeing the world by car, plane, train, RV — any way she can. Her travels include many road trips through Texas and beyond. Kim is raising her grandson and takes him and her Yorkie/Shih Tzu mix doggies on as many trips as possible. When she's feeling the love, she lets her darling 84-year-old mother come along as well. But her favorite way to travel is solo. When Kim's not writing, she is hiking through nature and camping in the woods in a cabin full of amenities.

Protect Your Trip »

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

You may be interested in.

Best Beaches in Texas

Best Places to Visit in Florida in 2024

Best Places to Visit in Arizona

Best Cheap Vacations in the U.S. for 2023

Best Food Cities in the U.S.

Best U.S. Cities to Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

35+ Best Places to Visit in Texas (Cool Vacation Spots!)

Here’s the thing about exploring the best places to visit in Texas: the more vacation-worthy places you visit, the more you find.

As the second-largest state in the USA, potential Texas vacation spots include everything from tropical beaches to mountaintops, city lights to lush waterfalls, and wide-open deserts dwarfed by larger-than-life skies to quirky small towns.

Assembling a list of the best places to go in Texas is no easy feat–and actually making it to all the coolest vacation spots in Texas is even harder.

As Rosemary Kent once said, “Most Americans can cover their home state in less than a week. In Texas, if you concentrate and work at it steadily, you can traverse your territory by about age thirty-seven.”

Though it’s tempting to write a list of a hundred or more travel destinations in Texas (we do have a list of 101 bucket list things to do in Texas , after all), we want to keep this short enough that it’s not overwhelming, while still giving Texans and visitors alike new beautiful places in Texas to add to their list of places to see.

Featuring every region and climate in the Lone Star State, here are the best places to visit in Texas!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Best Cities to Visit in Texas

The capital of Texas is known for its many festivals, beautiful setting in the Hill Country, self-proclaimed weirdness, and for being the Live Music Capital of the World–and without a doubt, it’s one of the best cities in Texas to visit!

Whether you come into town for an event or just for a weekend getaway, be sure to make the most of your trip to Austin.

Some of the best things to do in the city include strolling down South Congress, going for a swim in Barton Springs, renting a kayak on Lady Bird Lake, and seeking out some of Austin’s famous street art.

Check out our guide to spending a long weekend in Austin !

San Antonio

As the home of Texas’ most famous building and the state’s most-touristed, city, San Antonio is a delightful place to visit.

Meander along the Riverwalk, tour the Alamo , cycle between San Antonio’s five historic (and UNESCO-recognized) missions, step inside the San Fernando Cathedral, and browse Historic Market Square, and you’ll soon find yourself smitten with San Antonio.

Check out our guide to spending a long weekend in San Antonio !

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, Dallas is one of the best cities to visit in Texas and has plenty to offer all kinds of travelers, from artists to sports-lovers to history buffs.

Of course, no weekend trip to Dallas would be complete without a somber exploration of the assassination of President Kennedy, whose murder in Dallas in 1963 is one of the most haunting in the USA’s collective memory.

On a lighter note, though, Dallas offers far more than morbid history: with phenomenal shopping, excellent skyline views at Reunion Tower, walkable neighborhoods like the Bishop Arts District, and great gardens and museums (the Dallas Arboretum is stunning), you’ll find plenty of fun things to do during a weekend in Dallas .

Though it’s often lumped in with Dallas, Fort Worth–also known as Cowtown–is a distinct Texas travel destination in its own right.

While in Fort Worth, be sure to watch a cattle drive at the Stockyards, watch US currency being printed at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (yes, really–it’s even free to visit!), and check out the beautiful Fort Worth Water Gardens.

Want to get a bit of a thrill during your trip? Hop over to Arlington to ride roller coasters at Six Flags Over Texas!

As the largest city in Texas, the fourth-largest city in the United States, and one of the most diverse cities in the country, it’s safe to say that Houston is one of the best cities to visit in Texas!

Be sure to check out the Space Center Houston and NASA–the most famous of all the attractions in Houston–as well as sample some of Houston’s other top museums and parks.

Head to Kemah Boardwalk for a charming slice of Americana, and be sure to enjoy the food scene: Houston’s diversity is perhaps best displayed through its enormous collection of fantastic restaurants featuring cuisines from across the world.

Amarillo may not immediately come to mind as one of the best vacation spots in Texas, but not only is this small, out-of-the-way city in Texas full of quirky attractions, it’s also located right on Route 66 !

While driving Texas’ (admittedly short) portion of the Mother Road, be sure to stop in Amarillo to see the Route 66 Historic District, the famous Cadillac Ranch , and–if you’re so inclined–take on the 72 oz. steak challenge at the Big Texan Steak Ranch.

Plus, be sure to drive slightly outside of town to visit Palo Duro Canyon State Park , home of the second-largest canyon in the USA (aka the Grand Canyon of Texas)!

Primarily known as a Texas vacation destination for Houstonians looking for a beach close to home, Galveston is worth visiting for more than just a chance to cool off in the water.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the Strand, to tour one of the city’s historic Victorian homes, and to pay a visit to the Historic Pier (and hop on the Ferris Wheel for great views if you’re so inclined)–all of which, along with enjoying the beaches, rank among the best things to do in Galveston !

When it comes to cities in Texas to visit, El Paso often flies under the radar–but this desert city situated in the far, far western corner of the Lone Star State has a lot of offer.

Some of the best things to do in El Paso include touring the El Paso Mission Trail, visiting the Chazimal National Monument, admiring the views from the Scenic Drive Overlook, and visiting nearby state parks like Hueco Tanks State Park and Franklin Mountains State Park.

For those flying in, El Paso also makes an excellent jumping-off point for visiting Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park, as it offers the biggest airport located close to the parks (“close” is relative in West Texas, however–it’s about a 5-hour drive from El Paso to Big Bend National Park, though less than 2 to Guadalupe Mountains NP ).

Long known as the home of Baylor University, Waco has become one of the most popular Texas cities to visit in recent years for a very different reason: the opening of Magnolia Market, owned by Chip & Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame.

Even beyond the immensely popular Silos , though, Waco has plenty to see!

Consider also stopping by the Dr. Pepper Museum, enjoying Baylor’s beautiful campus, or checking out the Wooly Mammoth National Monument during your visit.

Cool Small Towns in Texas to Visit

For the purposes of this guide to the best places to visit in Texas, we’re trying (emphasis on trying) to keep things at a reasonable length… but I have a special love of small towns, so be sure to check out our complete guide to the best small towns in Texas for more great vacation spots!

Fredericksburg

Undoubtedly one of the best-known small towns in Texas, popular Fredericksburg is known for two things: its German heritage and its many, many vineyards.

While you’re there, consider making the short drive to Enchanted Rock, too–after all, you’ll no doubt want to stretch your legs after feasting on Texas wine and German food!

Check out our guide to the  best things to do in Fredericksburg !

Legendary Marfa is known in and outside of Texas for its quirky, artistic atmosphere set in the middle of the desert… and for having the world’s smallest Prada store (which is actually an art installation located in the nearby town of Valentine, and is definitely worth a stop on a West Texas road trip!).

Head to Marfa to enjoy interesting art, a much more vibrant downtown than you might expect in a small desert town, an excellent food scene, and–of course–the legendary Marfa Lights, which have been mystifying visitors for generations.

A beloved Texas Hill Country gem, Wimberley is known for its artsy downtown packed with galleries and unique boutiques, its natural beauty, and–most of all–its swimming holes.

Two of Wimberley’s swimming holes ( Jacob’s Well  and the  Blue Hole ) rank among the most sought-after places to swim in Texas, and you’ll need to plan weeks in advance to score reservations to jump in during the summer!

Check out our guide to the  best things to do in Wimberley !

Corsicana, made notable for the Netflix show “Cheer”, is a cute and cozy small town that is rising in fame thanks to the film industry, its beauty, and how easy of a getaway it makes from Fort Worth or Dallas !

There is a quaint winery, great lakes for kayaking or fishing, and mouthwatering restaurants to try from. Downtown is a charming area that preserves so much of that old school country charm.

The beautiful town of Jefferson, with its historic charm, railroad history, and proximity to Caddo Lake, is one of the coolest vacation spots in Texas.

The best things to do in Jefferson include antiquing in the historic downtown center, shopping at the famous Jefferson General Store, staying in one of the many bed and breakfasts  that the town is famous for, and learning about Jefferson’s railroad history–touring Jay Gould’s opulent private rail car is a great place to start.

Check out our guide to the  best things to do in Jefferson !

Texans know of Brenham as one of the best places to go in Texas for one very important reason: it’s where the original Blue Bell Creameries is located–and yes, you can visit (and buy ice cream at the rate of $1 per giant scoop).

Once you finish  touring Blue Bell , though, there’s still plenty more to explore in Brenham, including a walkable downtown center complete with lots of beautiful murals, a nearby lavender farm to visit, the gorgeous Giddings Stone Mansion that is worth a tour, and even an antique carousel for kids to ride!

Check out our guide to the  best things to do in Brenham !

Home to just a handful of official residents, the positively minuscule town of Luckenbach is the smallest of these vacation spots in Texas.

Despite its small size, Luckenbach is well-known as a country music hotspot, and is home to a popular dance hall and far more live shows than one would expect from a town of its size!

Charming Round Top is synonymous in Texas with its annual antiques fair, but it is one of the most best places to visit in Texas year-round.

In addition to the many, many antique stores around town (don’t miss McLaren’s, complete with London-style double-decker buses out front), a visit to Round Top should definitely include a slice of pie from Royer’s, strolls around Henkel Square Market and Rummel Square, and a quick visit to nearby St. Martin’s Catholic Church , the smallest (active) Catholic Church in the world!

For much of the first half of the 20th century, Terlingua was a booming mining town–but today, it is officially known as Terlingua Ghost Town.

After the Chisos Mining Company went bankrupt in 1942, this small settlement between Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park ended up abandoned–but the remains of the town have become a tourist attraction, which has sparked a small revival.

Today, you can eat dinner in the historic Starlight Theater and shop in one of the quirky galleries that have sprung up among the abandoned buildings and historic cemetery, making Terlingua one of the most unique places to visit in Texas.

Located right on Lake Granbury, the quaint town of Granbury has been named the  best historic small town  in the country by USA Today, and a quick stroll through its historic center makes it clear why!

Granbury is beautiful, charming, and packed with a wide variety of things to do for a town so small, from getting out on the lake to touring the Hood County Jail Museum.

Check out our guide to the  best things to do in Granbury !

South Padre Island

One of the most beloved beach towns in Texas , South Padre Island is the only tropical island in the Lone Star State and a fantastic place to visit.

Relax on the long beaches, try to spot wild dolphins, enjoy the sunset from the pier, ride horses on the beach, and learn about rescued sea turtles while visiting South Padre!

Check out our guide to the best things to do in South Padre !

Texas National + State Parks to Explore

Big bend national park.

Home to some of the most stunning views in Texas, Big Bend National Park is a fantastic place to hike and explore–don’t miss the beautiful Santa Elena Canyon or the Lost Mine Trail while you’re there!

Visiting Big Bend National Park is a commitment–no matter where you’re coming from, it’ll be a long drive to get there, and cell phone service is spotty at best–but in exchange, you’ll be treated to some of the best hiking and most magnificent viewpoints in Texas (not to mention some of the most incredible night skies).

Big Bend Ranch State Park

Wild and remote, Big Bend Ranch State Park is located right next door to the national park and is every bit as beautiful.

The Camino del Rio (FM 170) drive hugs the Rio Grande as it flows through the desert, and is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the country!

Be sure to stop for a swim in the river, check out the hoodoos, and hike Closed Canyon, one of the only easily accessible slot canyons in Texas and an unforgettable experience.

Colorado Bend State Park

For a park so lush that you’ll almost forget you’re in Texas, head to Colorado Bend State Park, home to great hiking, beautiful waterfalls (including incredible 70-foot Gorman Falls), and great swimming holes.

Want a little more adventure? Consider signing up for a wild cave tour!

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

Twentieth-century US History and the Texas Hill Country combine to make the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park one of the most unique places to visit in Texas.

Comprised of several different sites, including Johnson’s childhood home and one-room schoolhouse as well as the Texas White House he worked from as president and even a presidential jet nicknamed Air Force One and a Half, history buffs and lovers of Texas ranches alike will enjoy this park.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Made of pink granite, this bald dome stands 425 feet tall and has been fascinating humans for thousands of years.

Climbing to the top takes less than an hour (albeit a very strenuous, sweaty hour) and delivers you to a beloved and memorable view of the Texas Hill Country!

There are also several other interesting  hikes at Enchanted Rock  worth enjoying after your ascent.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

The second-largest canyon in the USA is located just outside of Amarillo, and it’s one of the coolest vacation spots in Texas!

While you’re there, be sure to soak in the excellent views from the top of the canyon, drive the park loop road, and hike a couple of trails. Most importantly, be sure to hike to the Lighthouse formation! It’s the most famous formation in the park for good reason.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Set just south of the New Mexico border in West Texas sits the beautiful Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Home to the four highest peaks in Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a hiker’s dream.

If you feel like extending your trip, you can also easily hop north to reach Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico as part of your trip!

Caddo Lake State Park

While Texas may be classically characterized as a place of desert landscapes and cowboys, at Caddo Lake State Park, you’ll find a very different side of the Lone Star State–one dotted with giant cypress trees that drip Spanish moss and leisurely canoe rides.

This isn’t a lake for swimming–the alligators who live in the lake are best avoided–but it is utterly beautiful, and one of the many fantastic places to vacation in Texas.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

Lost Maples State Park makes for a beautiful Texas travel destination year-round, but never more so than during the fall when the park becomes one of the best places to enjoy fall foliage in Texas!

The foliage is typically best from late October through mid-November and lasts 3-4 weeks, but the season does vary by year, so if you have your heart set on catching the foliage at its best, be sure to check its status before heading out.

Padre Island National Seashore

The Padre Island National Seashore encompasses the longest stretch of an undeveloped barrier island in the world, which separates the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre.

It also happens to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Texas and a favorite Texas vacation destination for generations!

Garner State Park

Encompassing more than 1700 acres of beautiful Hill Country, nearly 3 miles of the stunning Frio River, and roughly 16 miles worth of trails, Garner State Park is absolutely one of the most beautiful Texas vacation spots!

Whether you’d like to hike, camp, float the river, or simply enjoy a picnic and a swim, Garner State Park’s unforgettable beauty will be on full display.

More of the Best Places to Visit in Texas

Beyond the Lone Star State’s cities, towns, and parks, there are several other places that are, in their own right, among the best places to visit in Texas. Here are a few of them!

Hamilton Pool

The legendary Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs is one of the most famous swimming spots in Texas–and despite the fact that you’ll probably need to wait weeks for a reservation, it’s absolutely worth the effort it takes to get there.

Cadillac Ranch

Indisputably the most famous stop on Texas’ portion of Route 66, there’s nothing quite like seeing 10 heavily spray-painted Cadillacs buried in the desert!

Bluebonnet Fields

From roughly late-March to mid-April each year, the Texas countryside positively explodes into color, with fields of bluebonnets and other assorted wildflowers stretching as far as the eye can see.

Without a doubt, these fields are among the most stunning travel destinations in Texas.

Some of the best places to see the flowers include Ennis, Willow City Loop, and Burnet, but you can find the flowers all over the state.

Check out our complete guide to Texas bluebonnets !

Caverns of Sonora

Widely considered one of the most beautiful caves in Texas and even in the world, the founder of the National Speleological Association, Bill Stephenson, once said this about the Caverns of Sonora: “This is the most indescribably beautiful cave in the world, its beauty cannot be exaggerated, not even by a Texan.”

With a sales pitch like that, it’s not hard to see why the Caverns of Sonora are considered one of the most beautiful places in Texas to visit–even if they are located a few hours from any of Texas’ larger cities.

Pit Barbecue Joint

Whether it’s The Salt Lick in Driftwood , one of the rightfully famous joints in Lockhart , Opie’s in Spicewood , Truth Barbecue in Brenham, the legendary Franklin’s in Austin, or one of the many, many other incredible pit barbecue joints in Texas, sidling up to the counter to order meat by the pound and sides by the pint is a must-have Texas travel experience!

And, until you’ve visited a pit barbecue joint, you simply can’t consider a trip to Texas complete.

Bracken Cave

Each summer, Bracken Cave hosts 20 million Mexican free-tailed bats–making Bracken Cave home to the largest bat colony in the world and indisputably one of the best places to see bats in Texas .

If you’re visiting at the right time of year, you’ll never forget visiting to watch the bats fly out from the cave near sunset (advance reservations are required).

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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

19 Best Small Towns to Live in Texas

In our travels, we’ve been to so many great places to live in Texas that narrowing the list down to just a few has not been easy, but here it is!

From tiny, remote communities to larger towns close to city hubs, these are the best small towns to live in Texas!

GET A FREE TEXAS GUIDEBOOK WITH LOCAL TIPS!

With 71 pages of helpful travel tips and the “best of” Texas lists, this is your ad-free key to your Texas trip.

I consent to receive this Texas guide book and other e-mails from Happy to Be Texas.

Okay, everyone grab their favorite Texas candle and let’s get going!

1. Texarkana

Skip the hustle and the hassle of the big city but don’t miss out on the facilities.

Texarkana has history, arts, and all the facilities you will need.

Your kids’ education is looked after with college and two universities.

The Parks and Recreation Department provides indoor and outdoor activities for all ages to enjoy.

The Texarkana Texas Farmers’ Market is a great place to shop for seasonal produce.

Who knows, you might even become a stallholder yourself!

Texarkana is one of the best towns in Texas to live in if you love to belong to a community that cares about its environment.

2. Wichita Falls

As the Wichita Falls website says … Blue Skies, Golden Opportunities.

Make the most of your move to small-town Texas.

Get involved.

Share your talents by volunteering locally.

Enjoy the natural environment.

Get your education right through university.

Whether you’re a young professional starting out, a family with kids still at school, or ready to retire, you’ll find your place in this community-spirited town.

And, yes, there is a waterfall.

It’s a man-made fall, created after the original, natural falls were destroyed in a flood more than 100 years ago.

3. Amarillo

Is this the way? It sure is.

At first glance of the map, Amarillo might seem remote.

But sometimes that’s the point, isn’t it?

Get away from the big cities and still have all the facilities you need, and want.

Schools, churches, businesses, events, parks, sports, and recreation.

All this and more makes Amarillo the economic hub of the Texas panhandle.

Amarillo has a vibrant community feel and a focus on the environment.

Throw in cultural activities, history, and the amazing natural landscape

The second largest canyon system in the US is right nearby.

There’s really not much left to wish for in this family-friendly town.

Amarillo really is one of the best small towns in Texas to raise a family.

4. Galveston

Honestly, what doesn’t Galveston have to offer?

Not much as far as we can see.

Why not live the beach lifestyle all year round?

Soak up the history, the fun, the shopping, and the community.

Churches, and schools – both public and private – have excellent healthcare, business, and employment opportunities.

Don’t forget the fun.

This major tourist destination has plenty to do in your downtime.

And, of course, the amazing climate.

With all the facilities of a big city, you’ll never want to leave.

But if you do want to spread your wings a bit, Dallas isn’t far away.

Live, work, and play.

It’s the small-town life, island style – you won’t miss a thing.

5. Beaumont

A little something extra!

That’s what “ Beaumont ” means in the Cajun from which the name is taken, and that’s what it has to offer.

With a southern Texas climate and sunshine all year round, outdoor sports feature in this active community.

Parks, gardens, and recreation facilities promote an active and healthy lifestyle, as do the many free programs offered by the City.

Blend all this with history, culture, churches, and Beaumont’s coastal location and you just might have found your ideal hometown.

Find your home in one of the oldest towns in Texas !

Texas history and modern facilities combine in this slice of “Real America”.

You won’t be short of things to do in your “spare” time in this community-focused town.

Their calendar is chock-a-block full of events all year round – from trivia to arts to seasonal celebrations and more – so you’re going to find something to be involved in.

Health, government, and educational facilities, as well as other businesses, provide countless employment opportunities and make this one of the best small towns in Texas to retire.

Parks and recreation offer sports, youth programs, and great locations to enjoy your downtime.

We love the vibe in this great little town, and we know you will too!

Want to get out of town?

And we mean really out of town!

Tucked away in the eastern corner of Texas, Socorro is almost in Mexico, almost in New Mexico.

It’s a small town with a big family focus, great schools, and business and employment opportunities.

A blend of cultures works together to build a cooperative, diverse, and inclusive community.

Here you will find the preservation of the town’s history is just as important as building the future.

Why not take the plunge and really get away from the big cities to this safe and vibrant town?

It might be remote, but you’ll never feel isolated in Socorro.

Socorro truly is one of the best rural places to live in Texas.

The heart of Texas!

Lying halfway between Austin and Dallas, Waco has the small-town feel you want and all the big-city facilities you need.

Here you’ll find everything you’d expect from a city – parks, sports and recreation, education, public transport, healthcare, and cultural activities.

There’s a calendar of fantastic events – something for everyone.

Add to that a world-class zoo, museums, the mammoth monument, and the Lake Waco Wetlands.

You’ll always have something to see, do and take part in.

9 . Sherman

Classic Town, Broad Horizon!

Named after General Sidney Sherman, the town is proud of its history and celebrates it in museums and historic trails.

Sherman’s location ensures its future growth and ongoing prosperity as the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex continues to expand.

Why not be part of this dynamic future?

Infrastructure projects and thriving businesses mean employment opportunities and residents have plenty of choices for social activities.

One of several towns nicknamed “The Athens of Texas”, Sherman is known for its range of educational institutions.

With a past to be remembered and a future to be embraced, Sherman must surely be one of the best small towns in Texas to live in.

10. Midland

Feel the Energy!

There’s so much more to the energy of this big little town than being a major centre for oil and natural gas production.

Midland has a great range of services and businesses offering employment for its diverse population.

Great cuisine and an amazing calendar of events are just two reasons you’ll love it here.

Try ballroom dancing, karaoke or even axe throwing – wow! 

That sounds like fun.

Join in Family Fridays or eat, shop, and catch up with friends at the weekly downtown Farmers Market.

In Midland, you’ll find the ideal mix of work, leisure, community, and culture you’ve been looking for.

Midland is a small town that packs a big punch.

11. Killeen

Wouldn’t it be nice to have space to call your own and still live in a welcoming, family-friendly town?

Killeen’s location means that there is plenty of room to grow, so residents aren’t living on top of each other.

Most of us barely know what that feels like.

Midway between Austin and Waco is where you’ll find Killeen with its small-town living with city convenience.

Everything you want and need is here – education, recreation, business and employment opportunities, and more.

Killeen’s history really is a tale of two cities – the railroad town it was born as and the military base it became.

And with that rich history comes the development of the facilities that make Killeen one of the best small towns to live in Texas for families.

12. Victoria

Victoria is so confident this will be the small town for you that they publish their own relocation guide.

As well as a warm welcome, the guide tells you everything you’ll need to know for your move to this vibrant and very liveable hub.

With strong manufacturing and fuel exploration industries, there are many employment opportunities here.

As for somewhere to live, whether you’re renting or buying, you’ll find super-affordable housing for your budget.

Whether you’re just starting out or planning to retire, here you’ll find all the services, recreation, and facilities to put Victoria high on your list of great places to live.

13. Mission

The historic La Lomita Mission, which gives this town its name, still stands and is a popular attraction for residents and visitors.

Located close to the Rio Grande and the border with Mexico, Mission has strong multi-cultural influences reflected in its community, its architecture, and its culture.

Citrus production is a major industry that is celebrated in the annual Citrus Fiesta, a major tourist drawcard.

In Mission and nearby towns, you’ll find a friendly and lively community and opportunities that will make it a great place to raise a family.

Here is the truly small-town Texas lifestyle, combining the town and country influences, you’ve been looking for.

14. New Braunfels

Of all the small towns in Texas to live in, this has to be one of our personal favorites.

Close to San Antonio and not far from Austin, this thriving community has a welcome to offer anyone looking for a new home.

The growing population of New Braunfels builds on the German and Hispanic heritage which gives this town its unique character.

Waterways feature prominently in the scenery and recreation, with the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers flowing through the town and nearby Canyon Lake offering many facilities for residents and visitors.

From work to play, you’ll find countless ways to become involved in day-to-day life in New Braunfels.

Why not join the many families and young professionals who call New Braunfels home?

15. San Angelo

A showcase in West Texas!

San Angelo prides itself on its blend of visual and performing arts, with resident and visiting artists of all genres.

But it’s not just arts and culture that make San Angelo a great place to live.

You’ll also find world-class educational facilities.

And, as you might expect, one of the longest-running rodeos in the world at the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo.

Combine this with a rich blend of ethnic groups, low cost of living compared to many other Texas towns, and indoor and outdoor recreation facilities, and you have a great place to live, work, or retire to.

You can be sure of a friendly welcome in San Angelo.

Sharing culture and building community.

That’s what this small-town feel with the big-city amenities is all about.

Though close to Dallas, Denton definitely has its own unique personality.

Live music is all around you – in venues and on the streets.

The arts community thrives and the unusual and eccentric are positively encouraged – it is fuelling the town’s economy.

Residents are proud of their quirky community and love to engage young and old alike in playing their part.

They may be odd, but they wouldn’t have it any other way.

17. Greenville

Greenville will surprise you!

You’ll find all your needs met with jobs, education, and medical needs taken care of, plus a competitive cost of living to leave a bit extra for playtime.

History, museums, performance spaces, wine and dining, and the great outdoors.

Living in Greenville might feel like being on holiday every day.

Why not plan a staycation minibreak?

Greenville is well known as a weekend getaway destination – with events, festivals, and weekend activities all year round.

So you can have a weekend “away” every weekend if you want to.

And what could be more surprising than that in your new hometown?

18. Nacogdoches

The oldest town in Texas!

You’d expect history to be a big part of a town this old … and it is.

But there’s much more to Nacogdoches .

The combination of being a college town and a community focused on church and family makes it a place full of unseen opportunities.

Looking for that small-town American home to raise your family?

Or a welcoming community to retire in?

This could be it!

With its low-density traffic and very affordable housing, and so many things to do and ways to be involved in the community, Nacogdoches could well be your new home.

19. Lake Jackson

Located on the site of the old Lake Jackson Plantation, the “City of Enchantment” is a planned community originally built for employees of Dow.

The surrounding area affords natural protection from Gulf storms and takes advantage of the scenic beauty of the area.

In Lake Jackson, you will enjoy the best of all worlds, with all the facilities you need, as well as businesses and industries offering employment for everyone.

You’ll be close to the beach, and close to the rural areas too, so take your pick of where to spend your leisure time.

Get involved with community groups or attend one of the many events in Lake Jackson and nearby towns.

Whatever you choose to do, you’ll be truly enchanted by Lake Jackson.

Looking for more small town Texas charm? Check out these expert travel guides!

• 25 Hidden Gems in Texas that You’ve Never Heard Of

Pin for Later!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Privacy Overview

21 Charming Texas Coastal Towns You’ll Love

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

White sand, seafood restaurants, wildlife spots, and salty breezes. It’s true what they say – everything is bigger and better in Texas. While the Lone Star State might not be the first place that pops into your mind when you think of beach vacation, this guide will prove to you why it should be.

Texas is full of fantastic coastal towns to sit back, relax, and have a sip of some sweet ice tea. Whether you’re planning a warm winter vacation, a road trip, or a water-centric summer holiday, these Texas coastal towns are incredible. These coastal towns should absolutely be on your must-see landmarks and vacation list.

This list has 21 of the best coastal towns in beautiful Texas and has everything you need for a perfect beach vacation.

21 Charming Texas Coastal Towns

1. galveston.

This island city is full of Southern charm. If you’re looking to get away from the noise of the city, Galveston is the best place to relax.

In the past, it was the largest city in Texas and one of the largest ports in the United States. But the Galveston Hurricane of the 1900s ended their reign. Now, it is filled with restaurants, decorated Victorian houses and a colourful boardwalk. Galveston is a vibrant slice of paradise.

Be sure to head over to the Galveston Island State Park, and enjoy the scenic hiking trails or have a dip in one of the many swimming spots.

In the evenings, you can head to the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier for carnival rides, fried food, and gorgeous sunset views.

2. South Padre Island

South Padre Island is known as the “Spring Break Island”. It’s a party in the USA for sure on this island. However, South Padre Island is a year-round destination with warm waters and sunny skies. So, if you’re not up for a college flashback on vacation, you can still enjoy the perks of the island in late August and early September and avoid the crowds.

SPI is located at the southern tip of Texas, along the Gulf of Mexico and you are sure to have a vacation full of adventure. Go horseback riding on the beach, join a dolphin watching tour or learn how to kitesurf here.

The crown jewel of South Padre Island is Isla Blanca Park, located along the southern edge of South Padre. This park is filled with white-sand beaches, boating facilities, picnicking pavilions, and fishing spots.

Kemah is located near Houston and this small Texan beach town is unlike any small town you know.

Kemah is a mecca of fun, family-friendly activities. Famous for its boardwalk, you and your family can enjoy a variety of attractions, including roller coasters, arcade games and shopping.

This beach town is also great for indulging in a variety of water sports and swimming. Visit the Kemah Clear Lake Park and you will find a children’s play area, local flora and fauna, picnic tables and an excellent fishing spot or two.

Kemah is also home to many museums including the Bay Area Museum, Old Railroad Station Museum, and the Lone Star Flight Museum.

4. Rockport

If you’re coming from Houston or Austin, take a road trip to the beach town of Rockport, Texas . This lovely beach town has a unique culture, excellent weather and great restaurants that might make you want to buy a house and settle down there.

Rockport Beach is Texas’ first 1.6 km (one-mile) long Blue Wave Beach. This means it is clean, managed responsibly, and focuses on protecting human health and the environment. And, the beach is accessible to people with decreased mobility. Unfortunately, Rockport does not allow pets on the beach.

If you love standing by the grill, Rockport also has a few BBQ grill spots for beachgoers who want to have a Texas-style beach vacation.

5. Port Aransas

Port Aransas is one of Texas’ most popular beach destinations. It has everything you want on vacation. With a wide range of incredible outdoor activities to cultural activities, this spot on the Gulf Coast is a must-visit.

The beaches are incredibly unique, and you can get the most of the Texas coast here. So, why not indulge in all the outdoor activities the town has to offer? Like parasailing, kayaking, or windsurfing. But don’t worry, if all you want to do on your vacation is take things slow, you can rent a bike and cruise down the town and soak up the Port Aransas sun.

Port Aransas also hosts the annual Sand Fest . This is where sculptors create impressive lifesize sandcastles. Thousands of people head over to Port Aransas to see them. The bonus to the event is that the profits earned from the festival go to local schools and the community.

6. San Jose Island

San Jose Island is the perfect place for nature lovers. Besides the amazing beaches here, there are tons of tropical birds that love to serenade their guests. Talk about southern hospitality.

On this island, you can enjoy some downtime because the beaches offer 33 km (12 miles) of pristine coastline and are not very crowded. So, take the opportunity to enjoy the salty breeze and the sunshine, uninterrupted.

The beaches offer plenty to do, though. Popular activities include birding, shelling and fishing. While swimming or fishing from the island’s jetties, keep an eye out for sea turtles; these marine animals are commonly spotted in the area.

7. Corpus Christi

You might have heard of Corpus Christi but if not, this is the largest coastal city in Texas.

It is home to 300,000 people and it’s a beach town that has something for everyone. In Corpus Christi, you’ll have easy accessibility to the big city and its long, beautiful coastline.

The beaches here are great for swimming and other water activities. Corpus Christi has a lot of history and culture to learn about, so visit some of their biggest attractions like the USS Lexington . This is a large aircraft carrier from the Second World War.

Corpus Christi also has a great art scene. One of the best museums in this beach town is the Art Museum of South Texas. You will mainly find great contemporary art from local artists. Not to mention, Corpus Christi is famous for its walking ghost tours , so if you love scary ghost stories, this is the place you need to see.

You might enjoy reading my article on top attractions in downtown San Antonio and San Antonio for couples.

8. Freeport

Freeport is another small coastal town. But dynamite comes in small packages so don’t rule this town out.

If you consider yourself an outdoorsy person, Freeport is an excellent destination for all things nature. You can go camping at Brazoria County Beach Park or enjoy the beaches at Quintana or Bryan Beach. You can also go jet skiing in the nearby Old Brazos River.

Love to go birdwatching? Freeport also offers multiple tours to see migrating birds and songbirds. You can also explore the historic downtown of Freeport and the history museum to see the shrimping history of the beach town. Don’t forget to stop by the Freeport Municipal Golf Course for a few rounds on the green.

In Freeport Beach, dining options include the Red Snapper Inn for fresh seafood and Kitty’s Purple Cow Cafe for family-friendly dining.

The Ocean Village Hotel is located right on the sand in Surfside Beach, so you won’t have to walk far to get your feet wet.

9. Crystal Beach

Crystal Beach, located on the Bolivar Peninsula, is a fan favourite along the Texas coastline. This great beach town is an easy ferry ride away from Galveston. This Texas beach getaway is home to wide sandy beaches, excellent fishing, and amazing bird watching. Crystal Beach also has a fun boho beach vibe, plus, there is plenty to do here.

The beach makes for the perfect base for exploring other attractions on the Bolivar Peninsula, including the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge and the Point Bolivar Lighthouse.

Make sure you soak up the sun and add ‘rent a golf cart’ to cruise up and down the beach, onto your itinerary. Crystal Beach is also an excellent place to listen to live music, especially in the genres Country and Rock n Roll.

You might enjoy reading my article on the Cowboy Capital of the world, Bandera Texas .

10. Boca Chica

Boca Chica, located near South Padre Island, is a hidden gem around Texas. This extremely small, quaint coastal beachside community is home to the Boca Chica State Park on the Gulf Coast.

However, due to the nature of this laid-back Texas beach town, there aren’t a lot of amenities readily available to their guests. So, you will need to bring all your equipment for fishing, bodyboarding, and whatever other beach activity you may want to do here.

While remaining off the grid for years, recently, Boca Chica has become famous as the launch site of SpaceX, the private space exploration company founded by Elon Musk of Tesla.

Boca Chica is home to a 12km (8 miles) stretch of sandy beach located north of the mouth of the Rio Grande river. This Texan beach is only a 30-minute drive from the Mexican border.

Boca Chica needs to be at the top of your beach destinations in Texas

11. Matagorda

Matagorda is the third oldest town in Texas and has many historical buildings and markers in its downtown area. It is a small beach town located near the mouth of the Colorado River on the upper Gulf Coast of Texas. This town’s motto is “ the hidden treasure of the Texas Gulf Coast ,” and it’s known for its excellent fishing opportunities.

Here, you will find over 37km (23 miles) of beach area that is easily accessible for camping, swimming, and relaxing. The Matagorda Bay Nature Park is also an excellent place for birding and wildlife.

If you have a kayak or a personal watercraft, then you have access to another 56km (35 miles) of the beachfront area south of the Colorado River.

12. Port O’Connor

The city of Port Lavaca is located southeast of Houston and is also one of the most underrated Texan coastal towns in this guide. Why? Well, Port Lavaca and the nearby town of Port O’Connor are coastal towns that are rich in cultural activities. Port O’Connor is also excellent for swimming, kayaking, paddling, and other water activities.

The coastal city Port Lavaca includes the Main Street Theater and the Calhoun County Museum. It is also home to the coastal city’s top attraction, the Half Moon Reef Lighthouse, which was built in 1858.

But besides the abundant cultural scene, its outdoor activities are scenic and heaps of fun too. Golf lovers will enjoy playing a round at the beautiful Hatch Bend Country Club. Port Lavaca is also home to two fabulous beaches, Magnolia Beach and Lighthouse Beach.

While Magnolia Beach is excellent for fishing, launching boats, and playing volleyball, Lighthouse Beach is also wonderful for birding. It even has a birding tower and a family-friendly hiking trail.

13. Port Lavaca

Port Lavaca has managed to fly under the radar when travellers are looking for a Texas beach destination. Port Lavaca is known for its incredible fishing culture, and more and more people are starting to flock here for their summer holidays.

This city sits on the Gulf Coast and is home to 12,000 people and only a 2-hour drive from Houston, making it the perfect place to spend a weekend.

The park also has a locally owned bird sanctuary, where you can explore the Alcoa Birding Tower and the Formosa Wetlands Walkway. Also spend a day at LightHouse Beach Park, for its shallow warm water and sandy dunes. This park makes for a relaxing day in nature.

Made out of recycled material, the 670m (2,200-foot) Port Lavaca boardwalk will guide you directly from the beach to the birding tower. It’s the perfect place to reel in a big catch at Marina Bay.

14. Seabrook

Seabrook is a wonderful Texas coastal town vacation destination. You can find Seabrook in Harris County, which is close to the city of Houston. To reach Seabrook from Houston you have to drive about 30 minutes. The distance between the two places is about 56 kilometres (35 miles).

There are lots of great things to do in Seabrook. Making it one of the most fun beach towns in Texas to visit. For example, Seabrook is famous for the large and diverse number of birds that live here.

You could easily spend the whole day bird watching. This is due to the location of the coastal town. Seabrook lies on a very large path for bird migration in North America.

Not only is nature here phenomenal, but you can also find lots of activities at these parks. For example, there is a skate park and a swimming pool in a few of the parks in Seabrook. You can also find some scenic hiking trails connecting the 18 amazing parks in Seabrook, which you can also bike along.

15. Bolivar Peninsula

Bolivar Peninsula is a 43 km (27 miles) stretch between Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico with some small communities, such as Crystal Beach and Port Bolivar.

Because it’s a short drive there, it makes for the perfect weekend getaway from Houston.

In the Bolivar Peninsula, you are sure to find clean beaches, soft sand, and a lot of fun.

16. Port Arthur

This thriving port town has an alluring combination of Texas coastal charm and Cajun flair.

Port Arthur is an idyllic location that offers lots of delicious fresh seafood, breezy coastal walks, and natural beaches.

If you are looking for something more and want to venture out to partake in adrenaline-pumping activities, you’ll be well served here. Port Arthur is the perfect backdrop for dozens of outdoor adventures, including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking.

17. North Padre Island

Take a stroll along North Padre Island’s soft sandy beaches and watch the crashing waves. Not only is North Padre a picturesque setting for some time alone or with a plus one, but it’s also home to the sea turtle. Padre Island National Seashore separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Laguna Madre and is one of a few hypersaline lagoons in the world.

North Padre draws a huge crowd to Kemp’s Ridley to see the sea turtles every year. These turtles nest on the shores of North Padre Island and are very well protected by the state park system. People come from all over to watch the baby sea turtles being released into the ocean for the first time.

If you’re looking for one of the more rustic and off-the-beaten-path beaches in Texas, North Padre Island is for you. With over 112km (70 miles) of protected land, this national seashore is the longest undeveloped stretch of coastline on a barrier island in the entire world.

The Padre Island National Seashore is a great place to learn and uncover different wildlife and plants. It’s also a great nook to set up for a beach day with family and friends.

18. Jamaica Beach

Jamaica Beach is another place you should see when you’re looking for beach towns. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a small vacation spot in Texas.

Jamaica Beach City Park is one of the best places to see while you’re in the South. It’s a relaxing place to go to and there are several things to do – especially for large families.

Plan a day at the local basketball court and picnic area for the whole family to enjoy. This is also a great place to go for the kids, as there’s a playground with swings as well.

And of course, we can’t forget about the beautiful beaches here. The sand is wonderfully soft and white with crystal blue waters – it’s the perfect place to relax.

The closest large city in Texas near Jamaica Beach is Houston. You can reach this lovely town from there within 1.5 hours.

19. Mustang Island

This barrier island is located just east of Corpus Christi, Mustang Island is a favourite beach destination for families and active travellers.

Surfing and camping are popular things to do at this beach, however, the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail also offers opportunities to kayak, canoe and paddleboard. The Paddling Trail is a 32km (20 miles) series of shallow-water canals.

If you’re not keen on breaking a sweat during your visit, you can stretch out and watch for turtles, dolphins and birds on the island’s 28-plus kilometres (18 miles) of beautiful sands.

20. La Porte

La Porte is a great place on the coast of Texas, close to the city of Houston. To reach La Porte from Houston it’s a short 30-minute drive.

You’ll find lots of great sights in La Porte. One of those sights is the San Jacinto Museum of History. This is a museum where you can learn about the history of Texas.

Be sure to check out La Porte Pecan Park too. People gather here to watch baseball, take leisurely hikes along the designated trails, let their kids have fun at the playground, and so much more.

Also, when you are in La Porte, don’t miss an opportunity to go to Sylvan Beach Park. This is a lovely waterfront park with a pier that stretches into the sea.

La Porte is close to many other beach towns on this list, such as Kemah and Galveston. You could make a day of it and opt to visit all three beach destinations. You’ll be sure to have limitless amounts of fun in the sun at all three places.

21. San Leon

San Leon is a  lovely beach town in Texas. One of the best things to do in San Leon is to visit Bayshore Park. This is a lovely park next to the San Leon waterfront.

San Leon has an amazing variety of restaurants and bars to choose from along the beach. After spending a day in the sun, head over to San Leon’s most loved bar- the Sunset Lounge. Besides, the people of San Leon call it the Sunset Lounge for nothing. It is truly the perfect place to see the sunset.

Final Thoughts on Best Coastal Towns in Texas

As the second-largest state in the USA, Texas has over 563 km (350 miles) of sandy coastline calling your name. Hopefully, this guide made you curious to explore the many different landscapes Texas has to offer.

The Texas coastline, right on the Gulf of Mexico is a haven for every type of traveller. The coastal cities have consistently warm weather and a variety of charm and appeal. So, are you ready and rarin’ to go yet? The Texas coast is awaiting.

I covered all of the costs associated with writing this article. However, this Texas coastal towns post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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

Like this post? Why Not Share It?

Thanks for Sharing!

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

USA TODAY 10Best

Enjoy waterfront charm at the 10 best coastal small towns across the US

Best Coastal Small Town (2024) April 10, 2024

Big cities on the water have their perks, but these 10 coastal small towns — nominated by an expert panel and voted by readers as the best in the country — offer a calm and charm that is hard to find in more heavily populated areas. You can enjoy scenic views, historic attractions, delicious food, and plenty of things to do both on and off the water.

No. 10: Long Beach, Washington

Not to be confused with the Southern California city, Washington's Long Beach is just as relaxed, albeit with a different vibe (and somewhat chillier weather come winter). People-watch on the boardwalk, go birding or biking along their nature trails, take a leisurely lighthouse tour, check out the unique World Kite Museum, or just go restaurant-hopping — the choice is yours in this quaint seaside spot.

No. 9: Washington Island, Wisconsin

Trek to Wisconsin's Washington Island via car ferry and then let your adventure begin! Whether you do some biking and hiking, go back in time at the local history museums, or slow down to smell the lavender at Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm, you're bound to go home with plenty of marvelous memories of this delightful town.

No. 8: Cape May, New Jersey

This seaside town in the southernmost part of the Cape May Peninsula is a popular destination that's quieter and cleaner than its more boisterous cousin to the north, Atlantic City. Families love the free Cape May County Park and Zoo, as well as free summer movies on the beach, while couples might enjoy a sunset cruise, strolling through the various gardens and parks, and getting pampered at the local Cape May Day Spa.

No. 7: Sandusky, Ohio

This Ohio town on the coast of Lake Erie is home to Cedar Point — one of the top roller coaster-laden amusement parks in the country — but there's more to Sandusky than thrill rides. Visitors can enjoy learning more about the town's maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum of Sandusky, visit scenic Shoreline Park, go on an island-hopping cruise, and dine at a number of top-notch waterfront restaurants.

No. 6: Newport, Rhode Island

This Rhode Island town has a little something for everyone, from breweries and wineries to regattas and Gilded Age mansions — and that's just the start. Go paddleboarding or sailing, visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame, hike along the Cliff Walk with gorgeous ocean views, or simply stroll about downtown to grab a bite and do some souvenir shopping.

No. 5: Pismo Beach, California

Located along California's Central Coast, Pismo Beach draws in plenty of visitors with its quiet beaches and array of wineries and outlet shopping. Other highlights to check out include Dinosaur Caves Park, the Monarch Butterfly Grove, and the award-winning boardwalk. You might also enjoy some fishing or surfing if you prefer to stay on the water.

No. 4: Gulf Shores, Alabama

Drive an hour west of Pensacola, Florida, and you'll find yourself in the midst of Alabama's best beaches aka Gulf Shores. Swim, surf, and sunbathe by the sea, and then check out some of the area's top attractions like Waterville USA, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo (home to sloths and kangaroos), and Gulf State Park. Visitors also love the multitude of beachfront restaurants.

No. 3: Key West, Florida

Key West boasts everything from conch train tours and six-toed cats to a bevy of bars and festivals, not to mention it's the southernmost point in the continental United States. This walkable Florida town is full of historic and coastal charm, with gorgeous white sand beaches and palm-tree lined streets. It's also home to a robust arts scene, a butterfly garden, an aquarium, and buskers a-plenty for year-round entertainment.

No. 2: Saugatuck, Michigan

This lakeside destination is home to award-winning beaches, spas, breweries, art galleries, and so much more. Whether you're looking for a wedding venue or a romantic place to renew vows, want to enjoy a fun wine tasting, or take an unforgettable family vacation with plenty of outdoor time, Saugatuck has it all.

No. 1: Stuart, Florida

Part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, with the impressive Roosevelt Bridge to its north, is the under-the-radar town of Stuart. Walk along the St. Lucie River at Flagler Park or Shepard Park, both great spots for picnicking, fishing, or otherwise relaxing. The Stuart Heritage Museum, Road to Victory Military Museum, and restaurant-lined downtown Stuart are all among the local attractions.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Allison tibaldi.

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based...   Read More

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based in New York City. She has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne Australia, Toronto and Los Angeles.  She studied early childhood development in graduate school and firmly believes that travel is the best education.  She writes for numerous publications including CNN, Travel Channel, HGTV, am New York, Emirates Open Skies, Family Traveller and Travel Weekly. 

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jonathon Stalls

Jonathon Stalls (he, his) is a multi-disciplinary...   Read More

Jonathon Stalls (he, his) is a multi-disciplinary "Walking Artist". Some of his creative work involves media/organizing with the Pedestrian Dignity project, hosting walking/rolling events and leader training with Walk2Connect (a program of America Walks), pen drawing, meditative practices, and more. He is the author of  WALK - Slow Down, Wake Up & Connect at 1-3 Miles Per Hour  (North Atlantic Books, Aug 2022). In 2010, he walked for 242 days across the U.S., walked el Camino de Santiago in 2012, and has continued to move, write, and create alongside a wide variety of longer-distance routes. Learn more:  www.IntrinsicPaths.com

Kirstie and Christine of On Airplane Mode Travels

Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz are award-winning...   Read More

Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz are award-winning LGBTQ+ travel creators and trailblazers, using their platform, On Airplane Mode, to inspire others to follow their passions while celebrating their unique identities. With the leading LGBTQ+ travel platform in the US, they have a thriving community of over 650,000+ followers. The dynamic duo craft unique storytelling content that resonates with diverse audiences, sparking positive transformation within the travel industry, making it a more inclusive and vibrant space.

Kristen Lummis

Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in...   Read More

Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in Western Colorado. The mom of two now-adult sons, Lummis broke into her writing career through snowsports, founding the website  braveskimom.com  in 2010 to provide family-friendly tips across a full range of winter topics. And while skiing is Lummis’ first true outdoor love, she grew up camping, hiking, biking, kayaking and traveling extensively with her family — pursuits that she continues today. She prides herself on unbiased opinions, based on activities and destinations she’s visited and experienced. Lummis is honored to be considered an “expert” for 10Best. Follow her @braveskimom on Instagram and Facebook. 

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of...   Read More

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Melody Pittman

Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Read More

Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Wherever I May Roam Blog  and is co-owner of the Southern Travelers Explore annual conference, in its 4th year, which brings CVBS and writers/influencers together from all over the country. She is a digital influencer and writes for both online and print publications, such as Travel Awaits, Charleston Home and Living Magazine, Matador Network, She Buys Travel, and more. Melody has worked with major brands during her nine-year career, such as Viking River Cruises, Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Disney, hundreds of tourism boards, and GO RVing.  Melody’s first book “100 Things to Do in West Virginia Before You Die” was released in the spring of 2023. She has a podcast, 100ThingsWV, and social channels to go along with the book. Melody loves road trips, small towns, cruising, and sharing lesser-known destinations with her followers via TikTok , Youtube, IG , and FB . After a year of full-time RV travel, she now resides in Mesquite, Nevada. 

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

Best Scenic Train Ride

Best Aquarium

Best Drive-In Theater

Best Hiking Trail

Best Place to See Fireworks

Browse the best.

Best City Park (2024)

Best Recreational Trail (2024)

Best Public Square (2024)

Best Main Street (2024)

Best Riverwalk (2024)

Back to readers' choice.

• 6 Most Idyllic Small Towns In The Southern United States

The Southern United States , commonly referred to as the American South, is home to the Appalachian Mountains, coastal plains, and the Mississippi Delta. It is defined by a warm climate, with some areas experiencing subtropical conditions, making agriculture a major part of its economy; crops like cotton, tobacco, and sugarcane have historically been significant. The South is also rich in cultural heritage, known for its distinct music genres, such as blues, country, and jazz, and its culinary styles that include barbecue and soul food.

The Southern US is home to idyllic small towns that embody traditional Southern hospitality, offering a picturesque lifestyle amid historical settings. Do not hesitate to book a flight or plan a road trip to these six towns.

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, Florida , is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, it predates Plymouth, Massachusetts, by 55 years. Its location on the northeast coast of Florida made it a vital military outpost for the Spanish Empire and later for the British and Americans. The town's geographical setting by the Matanzas River and the Atlantic Ocean gave it a defensive advantage.

The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is one of the town's most known historical sites, where visitors can explore the legendary waters said to have been sought by Ponce de León. The park includes exhibits on the Timucua tribes and re-creations of the first Spanish settlements. The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a massive stone fortress built by the Spanish in the 17th century, symbolizes the clash between cultures that defines much of Florida’s early history. Lastly, the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum lets visitors climb the lighthouse for views of the Atlantic Coast.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg, Virginia, is a town steeped in American history. Established in 1699 as the capital of the Colony of Virginia , Williamsburg was at the center of political, cultural, and educational developments in early America. The town was home to the College of William & Mary, founded in 1693, the second oldest university in the United States. Williamsburg is also part of the "Historic Triangle" along with Jamestown and Yorktown, thanks to its well-preserved restoration area, Colonial Williamsburg.

Colonial Williamsburg is the heart of the town's tourist appeal, where actors and artisans in period costumes depict daily colonial life in the streets, shops, and workshops. This outdoor museum allows guests to experience first-hand the operations of a colonial town. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a change of pace with its European-themed amusement park, featuring roller coasters, live shows, and seasonal events. The Governor's Palace, once the official residence of the Royal Governors of the Colony of Virginia, is now a reconstructed building complete with period furnishings and elaborate gardens. Tours of the palace look at the political and social life of the colonial elite.

Natchez, Mississippi

[Image suggestion: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/natchez-mississippi-united-states-july-19-2148645695]

Natchez, Mississippi, is a town on the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River . Established by the French in 1716, Natchez is one of the oldest European settlements in the lower Mississippi Valley. Throughout the antebellum period, it was a prosperous center for cotton plantations. Natchez was also known for its relatively high population of free Black people.

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic drive that follows the historic travel corridor used by American Indians, settlers, and future presidents. The parkway is for driving, cycling, and hiking and has numerous trails and picnic spots. Longwood, also known as Nutt's Folly, is the largest octagonal house in the United States, with a byzantine onion-shaped dome and an unfinished interior that remains a monument to the upheaval of the Civil War. Lastly, the Natchez National Cemetery, established in 1866, is a reminder of the town's military history in a somber setting with its well-kept grounds overlooking the river.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg, Texas , founded in 1846 by German immigrants, is a town in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. This region is known for its rolling hills and climate for growing peaches and grapes. Fredericksburg was established through the Society for the Protection of German Immigrants in Texas, aiming for a peaceful coexistence with local Native American tribes. The treaty signed with the Comanche is a rarity in American history.

The National Museum of the Pacific War is dedicated to telling the story of the Pacific Theater during World War II. The museum includes the Admiral Nimitz Museum, housed in the restored Nimitz Hotel, which has personal artifacts and exhibits related to Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, a native of Fredericksburg. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a change of scenery with its pink granite dome rising above Central Texas. It's a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing. Wildseed Farms, the largest wildflower farm in the United States, lets visitors wander through fields of blooming wildflowers and shop for seeds and garden accessories.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs, Arkansas, is located in the Ouachita Mountains and is unique for its thermal springs that emerge directly from the Earth’s surface. Historically, these thermal waters were believed to have healing properties. The town was officially incorporated in 1851 and developed rapidly as a spa destination, especially during the early 20th century when grand bathhouses and hotels were built along what is now known as Bathhouse Row.

Hot Springs National Park, America's oldest federal reserve, predates Yellowstone National Park. It features bathhouses, where visitors can still bathe in the waters, and has numerous hiking trails and scenic drives. Garvan Woodland Gardens is another natural attraction, located on a 210-acre peninsula on Lake Hamilton. The gardens are part of the University of Arkansas and have botanical landscapes, architectural structures, and the Anthony Chapel, ideal for nature walks. The Gangster Museum of America shows Hot Springs’ history as a place for notorious figures during the Prohibition era. The museum has interactive exhibits and historical artifacts of the gangsters who once frequented the town.

Manteo, North Carolina

Manteo, North Carolina, is a town located on Roanoke Island, part of the Outer Banks , a stretch of barrier islands off the North Carolina coast. Rich in history, Manteo holds a special place in American lore as it is close to the site of the Lost Colony, where English settlers vanished in 1587, leaving behind the mysterious word “Croatoan” carved into a tree.

Roanoke Island Festival Park is a 25-acre interactive historic site that is a glimpse into the 16th century, representing the settlement of the Lost Colony and the Elizabeth II ship. Actors in period costumes re-enact daily life and crafts from the Elizabethan era. North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island is another must-visit. Visitors can see the region's aquatic environments through marine animals, from sharks to sea turtles, and interactive programs that promote conservation. Elizabethan Gardens was created as a living memorial to the Lost Colony. The 10-acre space is filled with themed gardens, antique statues, and a collection of native and antique plants.

The Southern US has an array of idyllic small towns that exemplify the region's history and hospitality. St. Augustine, as the oldest European-established settlement, and Williamsburg, a living museum of early American life, both take visitors back in time. Natchez has scenic beauty and a deep connection to the antebellum South, while Fredericksburg combines German heritage with Texas Hill Country. Each of these towns not only has natural beauty but also embodies the varied cultural and historical landscapes that define the American South.

More in Places

These 7 Towns in North Carolina Have Beautiful Architecture

8 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in New Mexico

7 Most Affordable Towns to Retire in Wyoming

6 Most Inviting Towns in Washington

8 Of The Most Charming Small Towns To Visit In Colorado

8 Coolest Towns in Illinois for a Summer Vacation in 2024

Adirondack Park

Top Travel Destinations for Retirees

When will solar eclipse reach your town? These maps show path's timing, how long it lasts.

Hundreds of cities in 13 u.s. states fall directly on the april 8 eclipse's path of totality as the moon blocks the sun's disc and ushers in darkness. these interactive maps offer a closer look..

Come Monday, millions of Americans from Texas to Maine will stop what they're doing to step outside and spend a few minutes gazing skyward .

Few celestial events have the power to capture our collective attention the way this upcoming total solar eclipse has managed to do. And for those making time to witness it, two questions are bound to be on their mind : Will totality reach my area and if so, how long will the resulting darkness last?

Most people across the country are bound to experience the eclipse in some form, but only 13 states fall directly on the path of totality, where the moon will appear large enough to shield all but the sun's outermost layer, the corona.

As you make your eclipse-viewing plans, these interactive maps should help you chart the time and duration for when totality will occur in cities along the path.

Solar eclipse experiment: Here's why NASA is launching 3 sounding rockets into space during the total solar eclipse

Total solar eclipse path of totality map

The 115-mile-wide path of totality will pass from southwest to northeast over portions of Mexico the United States and Canada.

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which will occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow travels northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin at 1:27 p.m. CDT in Eagle Pass, Texas. From there, the path will cut diagonally across the country before ending around 3:35 p.m. EDT in Lee, Maine.

Remember: If you plan to witness the eclipse, proper eyewear is a must until the eclipse reaches totality, then it can be viewed with the naked eye.

Here's a map of some of the larger cities in each of the 13 states on the path to show how the duration of totality will vary:

Cities, states on the path of totality

All told, nearly 500 cities in 13 U.S. states are located on the eclipse's path of totality. Here are some of the major cities in each of the 13 states:

• Dallas and San Antonio, Texas
• Idabel, Oklahoma
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Paducah, Kentucky
• Indianapolis and Evansville, Indiana
• Carbondale, Illinois
• Cleveland and Toledo, Ohio
• Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont
• Lancaster, New Hampshire
• Caribou, Maine
• Erie, Pennsylvania

This interactive map provides a closer look at cities along the path, when totality will arrive there and how long totality will last:

Eclipse watch parties, festivals

Such a rare event is sure to attract skygazing tourists unlucky enough to live outside the path of totality. Fortunately, many cities that will experience the total eclipse are planning plenty of festivities for tourists and locals alike.

This map , courtesy of Kristian Campana at festivalguidesandreviews.com , includes locations of watch parties, music festivals and more all tied to the eclipse's arrival:

2024 total solar eclipse interactive map with zip code search

Perhaps the easiest way to see how the eclipse will impact your city or town, is to put your zip code into USA TODAY's interactive eclipse map .

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]