Rolling hills, winding rivers, and some of the coolest small towns in Texas—welcome to the Hill Country, where every stop has a story waiting to be discovered.
This is the kind of road trip that’s all about slowing down, exploring back roads, and stumbling upon hidden gems along the way.
You’ll find crystal-clear rivers, dance halls where live music plays every night, and wineries serving up Texas-made reds and whites.
Some towns are famous for their German roots, others for their cowboy culture, and a few have surprises you’d never expect—so buckle up for an unforgettable ride!
1. Dripping Springs
Dripping Springs, just 23 miles west of Austin, is a small town packed with natural beauty, legendary barbecue, and top-notch breweries and distilleries.
It’s home to Hamilton Pool Preserve—a jaw-dropping limestone grotto with a 50-foot waterfall—plus rolling vineyards and the famous Dripping Springs Vodka distillery.
If you’re into dreamy wedding venues, epic swimming holes, or sipping local whiskey while watching the sunset, this place is calling your name.
2. Wimberley
Just down the road from Dripping Springs, Wimberley is the kind of place that makes you want to ditch your phone and soak up every second of its charm.
It’s famous for Blue Hole, a spring-fed swimming spot lined with cypress trees, and Jacob’s Well, a stunning yet mysterious underwater cave.
Quirky shops and local art fill the downtown square, but the real magic is at Old Baldy’s hilltop lookout, where 218 stone steps lead to gorgeous panoramic views.
3. New Braunfels & Gruene
Next up is New Braunfels, a town rich in German heritage and Texas-sized fun, with the tiny but legendary district of Gruene (pronounced “Green”) just around the corner.
Floating the Guadalupe or Comal River in an inner tube with a cold drink in hand is practically a rite of passage here.
If you time it right, Wurstfest—a massive German festival with brats, beer, and polka—is an absolute blast.
Over in Gruene, you can dance where Willie Nelson and George Strait have played, then grab a chicken-fried steak at the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar.
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4. Boerne
Going west, Boerne (pronounced “Bernie”) brings old-school appeal with a side of Hill Country adventure.
Stroll down Main Street for antique shops, bakeries, and incredibly delicious Texas-style barbecue.
You can also explore the otherworldly caves at Cascade Caverns and Cave Without a Name—yes, that’s actually what it’s called.
If you’re into scenic hikes, Cibolo Nature Center has trails through woodlands, prairies, and even a cypress-lined creek.
5. Bandera
Keep driving west, and you’ll land in Bandera, the self-proclaimed “Cowboy Capital of the World,” where boots, buckles, and honky-tonk music are a way of life.
This is the place to saddle up for a horseback ride across a ranchland, catch a live rodeo, or learn to line dance at a saloon that feels like the Old West.
For a true cowboy experience, grab a chuckwagon dinner, then watch the sunset over the Medina River—bonus points if you do it after tubing or kayaking.
6. Mason
Head north, and eventually you’ll find Mason, a town known for its sparkling blue topaz, scenic beauty, and some seriously cool history.
(On the way to Mason you can also stop by Kerrville to break up the drive.)
It’s the only place in the state where natural blue topaz has been found, though access to hunting for it is now restricted to private land and limited locations.
If you’re into frontier history, Fort Mason (once commanded by General Robert E. Lee) is worth a stop.
After a day of exploring, swing by a local winery for a glass of Tempranillo and soak up the quiet beauty of this laid-back town.
7. Llano
Keep heading east, and you’ll roll into Llano, a town that takes its barbecue, bluebonnets, and riverfront views very seriously.
Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is the main event here—just pick your brisket or pork chop, and they’ll serve it up with a side of Texas hospitality.
If you need to walk off all that barbecue, the Llano River offers clear waters, shaded spots, and a peaceful escape from the heat.
Come spring, the town bursts into color with vibrant wildflowers that look straight out of a postcard.
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8. Enchanted Rock
Just south of Llano, Enchanted Rock isn’t a small town, but it’s definitely worth a visit.
It’s a massive pink granite dome that’s been wowing visitors (and puzzling scientists) for centuries.
Climbing to the summit is a must—a short, steep climb that will test your legs, but the 360-degree Hill Country views make it all worthwhile.
Legends say the rock is haunted, but nothing beats watching the sunset from the top, with the whole landscape glowing in shades of orange and pink.
9. Fredericksburg
A short drive from Enchanted Rock, Fredericksburg blends German heritage with Texas wine country, serving up schnitzel and Sauvignon Blanc in style.
Main Street is lined with biergartens, bakeries, and shops selling everything from handcrafted leather boots to homemade peach jam.
Pro tip: Fredericksburg peaches are legendary for their sweetness, so don’t leave without trying some.
If you need a break from shopping, hit the Texas Wine Trail for a tasting tour or explore the National Museum of the Pacific War, which is way bigger and more fascinating than you’d ever expect in a small town.
10. Luckenbach
Down the road from Fredericksburg, Luckenbach is a tiny town with a big spirit—where the population sign humorously says “3,” and live country music plays daily.
This spot consists of a general store, a dance hall, and a whole lot of Hill Country soul, made famous by the Waylon Jennings song that put it on the map.
Grab a cold beer, relax under the oak trees, and soak up the kind of guitar-pickin’ magic that only exists in a place where “everybody’s somebody.”
11. Blanco
Head east, and you’ll hit Blanco, a small town with a big love for rivers, beer, and all things lavender.
Blanco State Park is the highlight, with crystal-clear swimming holes, picnic spots, and a historic dam that’s a favorite gathering place for visitors.
If you’re here in June, the whole town smells like lavender, thanks to the Blanco Lavender Festival.
Any time of year, you can stop by Real Ale Brewing for a cold Firemans #4 and a tour of one of the state’s best craft breweries.
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