Craving a scenic escape that blends natural beauty, historic charm, and laid-back adventure? This curated road trip through the Texas Hill Country offers a picture-perfect route filled with dance halls, wine tastings, creekside strolls, and small-town treasures.
Salado
Begin your journey in Salado, a peaceful enclave known for its artistic spirit and quaint downtown. Stroll the tree-lined Main Street, visit working studios and galleries, and stop in for a bite at one of the local bakeries or coffee shops. With boutique lodging and handmade goods, it’s a relaxed start to your Hill Country loop.
Georgetown
Just up the road, Georgetown features one of the most beautiful courthouse squares in Texas. Enjoy a patio lunch downtown before heading to Blue Hole Park, a spring-fed swimming spot nestled beneath limestone cliffs. Historic charm and natural beauty blend seamlessly here.
Dripping Springs
Dripping Springs, often called the “Gateway to the Hill Country,” is a favorite for wine lovers and weekend wanderers. Explore local vineyards, enjoy farm-to-table dining, and don't miss nearby Hamilton Pool Preserve—a stunning grotto surrounded by lush trails.
Blanco
Known for its lavender farms and river views, Blanco offers a quiet pause in your road trip. The Old Blanco County Courthouse sits at the heart of town, surrounded by antique shops, bakeries, and the inviting waters of the Blanco River—perfect for a mid-day dip or picnic.
Gruene
Gruene (pronounced “green”) is all about good times and timeless tunes. Stop in at Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, where live music still fills the air daily. Just steps away, local shops and restaurants line the streets, and the Guadalupe River offers tubing and riverside relaxation.
Luckenbach
Tiny but legendary, Luckenbach captures the essence of Hill Country cool. With live music under the oak trees and a general store turned post office turned hangout, this no-frills town is a short but unforgettable stop.
Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg is rich with German heritage and surrounded by Texas wine country. Spend the afternoon exploring Main Street’s boutiques, sipping award-winning vintages, and dining on schnitzel or handcrafted chocolates. It’s the perfect mix of culture and countryside.
Boerne
Boerne offers a walkable downtown known as the Hill Country Mile, where boutiques, antique shops, and cafés create a welcoming pace. Explore Cibolo Creek or venture into the nearby nature center for trails and wildlife just minutes from town.
New Braunfels
End your journey in New Braunfels, a vibrant town that blends river recreation with Old World charm. Float the Comal or Guadalupe River, visit Schlitterbahn Waterpark, and explore the historic Gruene district one more time for food, fun, and live music to wrap up your trip.
The Heart of Texas, One Stop at a Time
From Salado to New Braunfels, this Hill Country road trip reveals why Central Texas continues to capture hearts. Whether you're floating a river, sipping a local vintage, or two-stepping under the stars, each stop invites you to slow down and stay awhile.
Roadside Bites & Bonus Stops
Start in Austin with Franklin Barbecue, grab snacks/fuel at Rusty’s & Yes Way, enjoy smoked perfection at The Switch, and detour to Storm’s for a classic Texas burger. Don’t skip Wimberley—Hill Country charm and hidden gems await.