Fun Things to See and Do in Central Texas

 

1. Explore the National Museum of the Pacific War.

The National Museum of the Pacific War is a must-visit museum in Fredericksburg, Texas. Established in 1969, the museum features in-depth exhibits that bring to life the conflict in the Pacific Theater in painstaking detail. Spread across three buildings and six acres, the museum has thousands of artifacts and heavy machinery on display, including personal letters written by soldiers, photographs, and more.

Notable exhibits include the outdoor Pacific Combat Zone, which hosts battle reenactments, and the oral history exhibits where visitors can hear gut-wrenching stories. There are also interactive displays, a full theater, and a replica battlefield complete with troop carriers, tanks, and foxholes. The National Museum of the Pacific War is a powerful and educational experience that visitors will remember for years.

 

2 Hidden Falls Adventure Park.

Hidden Falls Adventure Park is a must-visit attraction for adventure seekers in Central Texas. Activities cater to all skill levels, including off-road trails for ATVs, dirt bikes, and 4×4 vehicles. Novice riders can enjoy the park’s beginner trails, while expert riders can take on the challenging off-road courses. The park also features hiking trails that lead to a beautiful 50-foot waterfall framed by a moss-covered cave. Hidden Falls Adventure Park has cabins, RVs, and rustic camping options for staying overnight. This park is the perfect place to satisfy your need for speed and explore the great outdoors.

 

3. Sleep Next to a Giraffe at Longneck Manor.

At Longneck Manor, guests can experience a unique stay by spending the night next to a 16-foot giraffe in their private Giraffe Suite. The suite boasts a stunning view of the conservation park’s three majestic giraffes, and guests can even feed them carrots through an adjoining window. The suite features state-of-the-art facilities and is booked out until 2024 after going viral on TikTok. However, four more lodgings will be built on-site by next summer. Visitors can also sign up for twice-daily, 90-minute tours of the grounds to learn about the resident white African rhinos and giraffes and enjoy a little taste of Africa in the Hill Country. Overall, Longneck Manor is an unforgettable experience for those looking for a luxurious and unique stay.

 

4. Drink Some Local Brews in Central Texas.

Jester King in Austin is a must-visit.

Acopon Brewing in Dripping Springs is also worth checking out for its British-style beers, including cask beers served from a traditional hand pump.

Fredericksburg Brewing Company and Altstadt Brewery are two other great options in the Fredericksburg area, offering Hill Country and German-style craft beers, respectively.

If you’re looking for a unique drinking experience, head to Desert Door to try their sotol, a wild west Texas plant-based spirit that smells like tequila but tastes like gin.

For bourbon lovers, Garrison Brothers on Highway 290 is a must-visit. With award-winning spirits, it’s a great spot to sip and savor.

 

5. Get Spooked at The Gas Station

The Gas Station in Bastrop, Texas, is not your ordinary pit stop. Once the real-life gas station featured in the 1974 horror classic, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, it transformed into a horror-themed barbecue resort that provides a unique experience for horror film fanatics. The eerie surroundings of The Gas Station are enough to make anyone’s hair stand on end.

Everything about this place screams horror, from the green van with a flat tire to the chainsaw atop the porch bench. Upon entering, one is transported into a horror movie mecca, with posters, dolls, masks, and costumes from throwback slashers adorning the walls. The four quaint cabins feature eerie red walls and a DVD player, where guests can watch horror movies to set the tone.

The bathhouse has a bloody bucket sitting underneath meat hooks on the wall, a disturbing photo op that fans of the film will recognize immediately. Overall, The Gas Station is a must-visit for horror film enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill of the iconic movie, with the bonus of delicious, non-human barbecue.

 

6. Climb Enchanted Rock.

Enchanted Rock is a massive pink granite batholith in the heart of Texas Hill Country. It stands 425 feet tall and spans over 640 acres, making it the nation’s second-largest granite dome. Visitors can hike to the top of the dome, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area also offers outdoor activities, including:

• camping
• rock climbing
• backpacking
• picnicking
• geocaching
• stargazing
• birdwatching

 

 

7. Walk Through the Flowers at wild seed Farms.

Walking through the flowers at wild seed farms is an experience unlike any other. The blooming wildflowers’ vibrant colors are breathtaking, and the serene environment is perfect for a peaceful stroll. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing escape, this place will not disappoint. The best time to visit is when the flowers bloom in the spring and summer.

 

8. Wimberley Glassworks.

Visitors to Wimberley Glassworks can expect a unique and immersive experience watching skilled artisans create beautiful glass pieces right before their eyes. Free glassblowing demonstrations are held every Thursday to Sunday, allowing viewers to feel the heat, hear the furnaces roaring, and see torches blazing. The gallery features a range of unique glass items, including vases and lawn ornaments.

In addition to the glassblowing demonstrations, visitors can explore the charming artists’ colony with quirky shops selling handmade crafts, paintings, and other artwork, as well as locally owned restaurants and bakeries.

 

9. Get a Staycation at Camp Lucy.

Camp Lucy in Dripping Springs is a luxurious staycation experience that feels like a trip to the French countryside. With gorgeous accommodations, including estate rooms with stone soaking tubs, treetop rooms, plushy cottages with shuffleboard tables, and safari-style tents with Casper king-size beds and clawfoot tubs, guests can indulge in comfort and style.

 

10. Stargaze at GLAT Austin.

GLAT Austin, located at Lake Bastrop North Shore Park, offers a unique glamping experience with excellent stargazing opportunities. With eight different glamping tent options, guests can choose from a modest tent with two single beds to a large tent that can sleep up to six people and includes a private restroom and shower.

In addition to the cozy accommodations, GLAT Austin also features fire pits and a large hot tub for guests to relax and enjoy the night sky. Surrounded by natural beauty and away from the city’s bright lights, GLAT Austin is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and serene stargazing experience.

 

11. Find Serenity at The Yurtopian.

The Yurtopian is a serene and secluded glamping destination in Central Texas, perfect for a peaceful and romantic getaway. The property features six remote hilltop yurts, each located 300 feet apart, ensuring privacy and noise control, along with three community river bluff yurts with direct access to the Blanco River. The yurts are climate-controlled and equipped with a pillowy king-size bed, leather couch, and desk with books and magazines to read on the rooftop hammock.

Guests can also enjoy a private plunge pool that can be heated into a hot tub, a gas fire pit, and an alfresco shower. The outdoor kitchen is perfect for cooking breakfast, and the natural beauty of the surrounding woods and river adds to the peaceful atmosphere.

 

12. Cool Off at Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well.

Blue Hole and Jacob’s Well are two of the most beloved natural swimming holes in Central Texas. Blue Hole is a spring-fed spot in Wimberley with a refreshing temperature of 75 degrees. The site offers rope swings that entice swimmers to backflip into the water, and it is surrounded by Bald Cypress trees that add to its natural beauty. Advanced paid reservations are required to visit Blue Hole, so plan accordingly.

Jacob’s Well, on the other hand, is an artesian spring located within an immersed cavern that goes 140 feet deep and maintains a temperature of 68 degrees. It is one of the best swimming holes in Texas and a top Wimberley attraction. The chilly water here is deceptively deep, bubbling up from a cave that stretches over 100 feet underground. From May through September, reservations are required for swimming.

 

 

13. Go Birding at Horseshoe Bay Nature Park.

Horseshoe Bay Nature Park, located on a rolling upland prairie in Central Texas, offers a serene and picturesque setting for bird-watching enthusiasts. With an 11-acre area, the park is home to unique bird species such as black-bellied whistling ducks, painted buntings, scissor-tailed flycatchers, bell’s vireos, and yellow-billed cuckoos. Visitors can grab their binoculars and birding guide to explore the scenic space while keeping an eye out for these feathered creatures. The park’s peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts. We highly recommend adding this activity to your itinerary when visiting Central Texas.

 

14. Snap Photos of a Waterfall at Hamilton Pool Reserve

Hamilton Pool Reserve is a breathtaking natural wonder outside Austin, Texas. The pool is a jade-green water hole surrounded by limestone rocks and a seasonal 50-ft waterfall. Visitors can swim, hike, and enjoy a picnic in the beautiful outdoors. The pool is part of a protected natural preservation area, allowing vegetation and trees to thrive. Reservations are required before visiting, and visitors should bring close-toed shoes for the rugged hike from the parking lot. Taking the plunge into the pristine blue-green waters of Hamilton Pool is an unforgettable experience and a must-see for anyone visiting Texas.

 

15. Take a guided fly-fishing tour of the region’s rivers.

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the beauty of the rivers in Central Texas, consider taking a guided fly-fishing tour. Expert guides provide all the necessary equipment, including rods, reels, and flies, so you can focus on catching some of the many different types of fish in the area, such as rainbow and brown trout. With years of experience and knowledge of the local waters, the guides will help you navigate the river and improve your fishing skills. You’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery as you cast your line and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.

 

16. Explore the stunning natural formations at Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown.

Inner Space Cavern in Georgetown, Texas, is a geological wonder worth visiting. Discovered in 1963 during the construction of Interstate 35, the caverns are estimated to be around 10,000 to 14,000 years old. Visitors can expect to see incredible formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique geological formations.

 

17. Go on a hot air balloon ride with Austin Aeronauts and see the Hill Country from above.

Take to the skies with Austin Aeronauts on a hot air balloon ride over the stunning Texas Hill Country. Enjoy the breathtaking views of rolling hills, winding rivers, and rustic towns while gently drifting through the sky. Experience the sensation of weightlessness as you soar above the treetops and take in the panoramic vistas from a unique perspective. The best hot air balloon ride times are during the cooler months, such as fall and winter when the weather is calm and clear. However, any time of year can provide a memorable experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the unforgettable moments and views.

 

18. Visit the unique art installations at the Museum of the Weird in Austin.

The Museum of the Weird in Austin is a rare find, boasting a plethora of oddities and unique art installations. Visitors can view a fee jee mermaid, a pickled hand of a hanged man, shrunken heads, ancient mummies, and even a cyclops-like pig. The museum also features a theater with a rotating cast of strange performers, including one who holds a live wire and performs a traditional sideshow. The museum’s displays will amaze and fascinate visitors who love the bizarre and unusual.

 

19. Take a helicopter tour and see the region’s natural beauty from a new perspective.

Lone Star Heli offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Central Texas with their helicopter tours. Take to the skies and soar over the stunning landscapes of the Texas Hill Country, with views of crystal-clear streams, towering oak and cedar trees, and grand hillside vistas.

 

20. Go on a guided hike through the Hill Country with Hill Country Outdoors.

Hill Country Outdoors offers guided hikes through the Texas Hill Country, allowing one to explore the region’s natural beauty while learning about the local flora and fauna. Hikers can choose from trails ranging from easy to challenging, with options for all skill levels.

The knowledgeable guides provide information about the history and ecology of the area, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. Participants should wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen. By going on a guided hike with Hill Country Outdoors, hikers can enjoy the beauty of the Hill Country and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s unique landscape and wildlife.

 

21. Sample the award-winning wines at Grape Creek Vineyards in Fredericksburg.

Grape Creek Vineyards in Fredericksburg, Texas, is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. The vineyard offers award-winning wines, a beautiful setting, and a welcoming atmosphere. The Mediterranean-style tasting room overlooks the vineyard, providing a stunning backdrop for tasting sessions. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard and winery and a tasting of their signature wines. The vineyard also hosts live music events and offers a selection of food and snacks to complement its wines.

 

22. Experience the thrill of ziplining through the trees with Wimberley Zipline Adventures.

If you’re looking for an exhilarating adventure in the heart of Central Texas, look no further than Wimberley Zipline Adventures. Nestled among the cypress treetops, this attraction offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape that will leave you in awe. But don’t worry; safety is their top priority, and they provide top-of-the-line equipment and trained guides to ensure your experience is thrilling and safe.

 

23. Take a scenic drive along the winding roads of the Twisted Sisters in the Hill Country.

The Twisted Sisters is a 100-mile loop of winding roads that offer breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country. The drive takes visitors through the lush greenery of limestone outcrops, ancient live oaks, and white-flowering yucca plants. The hills take on shapes like traffic cones and gumdrops, and the roads twist so much that you may have to slow down to a crawl in some places.

 

24. Visit the charming small town of Gruene and attend a live music show at Gruene Hall.

Gruene, Texas, is a small town full of history and charm. Established in 1850, the town was once a thriving cotton-producing community that saw a decline during the Great Depression. However, developers purchased and restored many of the buildings in the town, turning it into a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the Gruene Historic District, which features preserved buildings from the 1800s that now house boutiques, restaurants, and more. The best time to visit is during sunny weekends when tourists can explore the town and attend a live music show at Gruene Hall. As the oldest continuously operating dance hall in the great state of Texas, Gruene Hall has hosted some of the biggest music names since 1975, including George Strait, Willie Nelson, and Garth Brooks.

 

25. Explore the historic sites and artifacts at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin.

The Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum in Austin, Texas, is a must-see attraction for history buffs. Located on the University of Texas campus at Austin, the library and museum showcase the life and presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th President of the United States.

Visitors can explore thousands of books, historical relics, and interactive exhibits highlighting the tumultuous time when Johnson was president in American history. The museum features a replica of the Oval Office, an 11-minute film on President Johnson, and an audio tour suitable for children and adults. Exhibits cover major events of the 1960s, including the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement. The library also includes a research center for scholars and researchers interested in studying the Johnson presidency and its impact on American history.

 

26. Horseback through the Hill Country with Texas Trail Rides.

If you’re looking for a more traditional way to explore the Texas Hill Country, a horseback ride with Texas Trail Rides is the perfect adventure. You’ll be able to appreciate the stunning scenery of the Hill Country, with towering oak and cedar trees, crystal clear streams, and rolling hillsides that meet the majestic hills.

The horses provided by Texas Trail Rides are well-trained and friendly, making the ride a comfortable and enjoyable experience for riders of all levels. Along the way, you may discover notable landmarks such as the Cowboy Capital of Texas, Bandera, or the Tourist Capital of Texas, San Antonio. With Texas Trail Rides, you’ll have an unforgettable experience exploring the beauty of the Hill Country on horseback.

 

27. Take a sunset kayaking tour of Lady Bird Lake in Austin with Live Love Paddle.

Live Love Paddle offers a one-of-a-kind experience kayaking on Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas. The sunset tour is a perfect way to end your day, paddling along the downtown skyline as the sun sets over the water and the bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. You’ll have the chance to see local wildlife up close and personally and capture stunning photos of the Austin skyline. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours and costs $55 per person. With friendly and knowledgeable guides, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Austin.

 

28. Attend a cooking class at Fischer & Wieser Culinary Adventure Cooking School in Fredericksburg.

At Fischer & Wieser Culinary Adventure Cooking School, one can embark on a flavorful journey of learning to cook, taste, share, and laugh. From a four-course meal to a sweet pastry class, classes include notes on local history and culture, chefs’ and grandmother’s techniques, tips on Fredericksburg wineries and restaurants, and wisdom about food, wine, and life. What’s more, wines from the Texas Hill Country are served with every class. For a more intimate experience, groups of two to 10 can book a private lesson, complete with instruction, a full meal, wine, and recipes. Multiple menu options are available.

 

29. Take a guided ATV tour with Hill Country Adventure Rentals through the rugged Hill Country terrain.

Experience the thrill of exploring the rugged terrain of the Texas Hill Country on a guided ATV tour with Hill Country Adventure Rentals. With multiple areas suitable for novice riders and expert-level off-road courses, you can fulfill your need for speed on a dirt bike, motorcycle, ATV, UTV, or full-size 4×4. As you navigate through the crystal-clear streams, towering oak and cedar trees, and grand hillside vistas, be sure to capture the breathtaking views with your camera. After an exhilarating day in the dirt, relax in one of Marble Falls’ cabins, RVs, or rustic campsites. Don’t forget to make your reservations in advance!

 

30. Visit the stunning Hamilton Pool Preserve and swim in the natural pool.

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a magnificent natural wonder in Central Texas that offers visitors a glimpse of paradise. This awe-inspiring natural swimming pool is landscaped by a gorgeous grotto hidden under a 50-foot waterfall in a canyon. It is a natural and relaxing oasis that you can dip into as a break from the local heat. The jade-green water and limestone rocks surrounding the entire pool create a stunning visual spectacle that is unique and breathtaking.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, picnicking, and even guided hikes to learn about the area’s history. Visitors must make reservations in advance to access the preserve, as they are limited to protecting the ecosystem. Close-toed shoes are recommended for the rugged quarter-mile hike from the parking lot and for walking around the swimming area. Don’t miss this picturesque and unforgettable experience!

 

31. Attend a live performance at the historic Palace Theatre in Seguin.

The Palace Theatre in Seguin, Texas, has a rich history dating back to its opening in 1925. Originally built as a vaudeville house, the theater has seen many changes, including a stint as a movie theater and a period of disrepair. However, after extensive renovations, the Palace Theatre has returned to its former glory as a live performance venue. Attending a show at the Palace Theatre is a truly unique experience, as the historic Mediterranean-style architecture and ornate detailing create a charming and intimate atmosphere. Whether you’re watching a local play or a touring Broadway production, the Palace Theatre is sure to impress.

 

32. Take a guided cave tour at Cascade Caverns in Boerne TX

Get ready for an adventure through time and nature at Cascade Caverns! Located just 3 miles south of Boerne, Texas, this limestone solutional cave is a historical, geological, and biological gem. With its commercial operation as a show cave since 1932, visitors can explore its stunning formations and learn about its rich history. From informal tours dating back to 1875, when Dr. Benjamin Hester owned the property to the native Lipan Apache people who inhabited the area before 1800, the cave is brimming with fascinating stories. Come discover this natural wonder for yourself!

 

33. Explore the world-class contemporary art collection at the Blanton Museum of Art in Austin.

The Blanton Museum of Art is one of Austin, Texas’s most prestigious art museums. Established in 1963, the museum houses an extensive collection of contemporary art, with works by renowned artists such as Robert Rauschenberg and Thomas Hart Benton.

The museum’s permanent collection includes over 18,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Greek pottery to contemporary prints and paintings. Visitors can also explore the museum’s rotating exhibitions, which showcase works by emerging and established artists worldwide. 

 

34. Experience the thrill of wakeboarding at Quest ATX in Austin.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity in Central Texas, look no further than wakeboarding at Quest ATX in Austin. This park offers a unique experience where riders are pulled by a cable system instead of a boat, allowing longer rides and more opportunities to perfect your moves. With obstacles and ramps to choose from, wakeboarders of all skill levels can challenge themselves and have a blast.

 

35. Take a scenic drive through the winding roads of the Devil’s Backbone in the Hill Country.

The Devil’s Backbone is a breathtaking scenic drive that winds through the Hill Country of Central Texas. The 30-mile stretch between Kerrville and Medina features twisting roads that lead visitors through a landscape of ancient live oaks, limestone outcrops, and white-flowering yucca plants.

 

36. Go on a guided rock-climbing excursion with Rock About.

Rock About offers an exhilarating guided rock-climbing experience perfect for adventure seekers. With knowledgeable guides and top-of-the-line equipment, climbers of all levels can enjoy the thrill of scaling the gym’s challenging walls. The climb is an adrenaline-fueled adventure with routes and obstacles to conquer.

Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a first timer, the team at Rock About will provide expert guidance and support throughout the journey. We highly recommend this experience for anyone looking to push their limits and take on a new challenge in a safe and controlled environment.

 

37. Visit the historic German town of Fredericksburg and explore its unique shops and restaurants.

Fredericksburg, a charming town in Central Texas, is a must-visit destination for those interested in history, great food, and unique shops. Founded by keen German immigrants in the nineteenth century, the town still honors its heritage through its many German restaurants and festivals, such as Oktoberfest. The Vereins Kirche in the town square is also a notable landmark.

Fredericksburg is also known for its bed-and-breakfast accommodations and its many wedding venues, wineries, and distilleries. Visitors can also explore the National Museum of the Pacific War, which features exhibits about World War II in the Asia-Pacific War Theater. For a break from the crowds, nearby Comfort offers stone architecture, quirky shops, and restaurants.

 

38. Attend a live rodeo show at the historic Tejas Rodeo Company in Bulverde.

Tejas Rodeo Company in Bulverde is a historic rodeo that has been around since 1927, making it one of the oldest rodeos in Texas. Visitors can expect to see thrilling rodeo events such as bull riding, barrel racing, and team roping, live music performances and delicious food options. The rodeo also hosts special events throughout the year, such as the Annual Cowboy Christmas Ball and the Annual Pro Rodeo Finals. Guests can enjoy the rodeo from the covered grandstands or opt for a VIP experience with access to a private bar and lounge area.