There are several towns in the Texas Hill Country that offer all the amenities that many people enjoy on weekend trips—bed and breakfasts, antiques, art galleries and outdoor activities. Whether you delight in sampling wine, art or music, Central Texas has something for you. All of these towns are popular destinations, so you’ll want to make reservations for your accommodations in advance.
Driving into Fredericksburg, you’ll feel as though you are driving back in time. The town was founded in 1846 by German settlers and is now designated a National Register Historic District. You’ll see historic homes and shops, and there is a wide variety of bed and breakfasts from which to choose. Spend one day shopping for antiques and the next attending a wine tasting at a local winery. You may also enjoy driving 18 miles out of town to hike at Enchanted Rock, a mountain-like granite rock formation that people travel from miles around to hike.
Wimberley is the considered by many to be the quintessential small town, as evidenced by its inclusion in “America’s Ten Best Small Towns” by "Travel Holiday Magazine." Go on the first Saturday of the month (March through December), so that you won’t miss out on the town’s Market Days, which offers a large selection of booths featuring handmade crafts, furniture and other goodies. While you’re there, stop by Wimberley Glassworks (6469 RR 12), where Wednesday through Saturday, you can enjoy watching glass-blowing demonstrations. If weather permits, go for a swim in one of Wimberley’s swimming holes or streams.
If you love live music, plan a trip to Kerrville during the first two weeks of June, when the acclaimed Kerrville Folk Festival is going on. You’ll get to hear up-and-coming musicians and enjoy the society of other passionate music lovers. Even if you don’t attend the music festival, you’ll find there’s plenty to occupy your time in this community. Don’t miss the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, located downtown at 228 Earl Garrett St. You’ll see the work of more than 600 artists in a variety of media. If the weather is agreeable, enjoy a picnic at a natural pool created by the Guadalupe River. You’ll find it in Louise Hays Park, which is conveniently located downtown.
Gruene is a small historic town settled in the mid 1800s just steps down the river from New Braunfels. Spend time exploring antique shops in the quaint downtown area. Have lunch or dinner at Adobe Verde (1724 Hunter Road), which is housed in an electric gin built in 1922. Surrounding Gruene is the city of New Braunfels, where you can spend a day at the Schlitterbahn water park, tube down the Guadalupe River or max out your credit cards at the outlet malls. Spring and summer are the best times to visit this area, as it is a shame not to take advantage of the water park or river tubing when you are here.
