A Weekend Getaway in the Texas Hill Country
Curated By
Samantha Dwinell
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Curator’s statement
The Texas Hill Country is a hidden gem. Just a short drive from Austin or San Antonio, it is a great weekend escape with outdoor activities, up-and-coming wineries and breweries and small town shopping in places like Fredericksburg. While you may not think Texas when you think about wine destinations, Texas is the fifth-largest producer of wines and has been ranked in the top three in USA Today's Ten Best Readers' Choice awards (2021). With rolling hills and world-class accommodations, there's no better weekend getaway than the Texas Hill Country.
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Insider knowledge
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Where to stay in Texas Hill Country
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Things to do in Texas Hill Country
Outdoor activities
Enchanted Rock State Park: Great hiking for various levels of activity. Be sure to reserve your entry spot through the state website.
Colorado Bend State Park: About a three-mile roundtrip hike to the 70-foot Gorman Falls, or book yourself a cave tour in advance.
Float down the Guadalupe River in rented tubes or rafts.
Winetasting
With typical Texas hospitality, you can stop almost anywhere along US-290 between Austin and Fredericksburg to sample without a reservation (assuming you're a car-sized group). Some of the best options are: William Chris Vineyards, Bingham Family Vineyards and Grape Creek Vineyards. Most of the Hill Country wineries allow children, but not all (Grape Creek, for example, is 21+ only).
Shopping
Spend an afternoon in downtown Fredericksburg, wandering through the many craft and local stores. If you happen to be visiting the first Saturday of the month, don't miss Wimberly Market Days (the oldest and second largest outdoor market in Texas).
Places to eat & drink in Texas Hill Country
Blue Bonnet Café in Marble Falls: best breakfast! The building looks a little worn around the edges, but the food is outstanding. Best pies in Texas!
Salt Lick: Texas barbecue is a must-have while in Hill Country, so stop at Salt Lick outside Dripping Springs. With lots of indoor and outdoor seating, you'll still always face a line, but the wait is worth it. Check out the amazing smoke pit inside the restaurant.
Hill & Vine in Fredericksburg: Amazing outdoor patio with an extensive TX-and-beyond wine list. Come early to put your name on the list. No reservations.
Otto's German Bistro: Wonderful small restaurant in a converted old Fredericksburg home. Modern take on German fare with an extensive wine list. Reservations recommended.
Stout's at Grape Creek Vineyard: Delicious spot to stop for lunch while wine tasting in the Hill Country. Only members can make reservations, but it's worth signing up for a shipment or two to enjoy the free tastings and beautiful lunch setting.
Redbud Café and Pub in Blanco, TX: Right on the main square, this is a great comfort-food spot with indoor and outdoor seating.
The Creek Restaurant in Boerne, TX: Fine dining in Hill Country. Listen to the water mill while you enjoy some of the best dishes in the area. Reservations recommended.
Pritzer Sweet Shop in Fredericksburg: Get a famous sweet German pretzel or other tasty pastries at this main-street shop.
Need to Know
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out this Guide to Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort in Boerne, TX.
Travel Advisor
Samantha Dwinell
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Texas.