7 Texas Towns That Rival Europe's Best
Texas's bold spirit is enticing and these seven Texas towns, where settlers left indelible marks in brick and tradition, invite visitors to leave America for a moment and hop into Europe, passport-free!
If you're in the mood to explore local museums filled with transatlantic artifacts, centuries-old dance halls that host performances in the style of European ballrooms, and timeworn storefronts that recall cobblestone streets, look no further. These communities challenge the conventional image of the Lone Star State and forge a tangible link to European history. This unexpected convergence of Texan grit and Old World influence transforms these destinations into modern gateways to Europe without ever leaving home!
Boerne
Established by German settlers in 1849, Boerne's Main Street is lined with buildings that reflect its European roots, including the landmark Kendall Inn and the Boerne Village Bandstand.
Visitors to Boerne can explore the Cibolo Nature Center for a walk through diverse ecosystems, or enjoy the serene River Road Park along Cibolo Creek. The town boasts specialized establishments such as the Bear Moon Bakery for authentic German pastries and The Dienger Trading Co., which serves as both a boutique and bistro. Art enthusiasts can visit the Agave Gallery featuring local artists, while history buffs might explore the Kuhlmann-King Historical House to see life as it was in the 19th century.
Salado
Salado, established in 1859, flourishes as a hub of Scottish heritage and artistic culture, with its foundations deeply rooted in the arts and education. The town was home to the first coeducational college in the state, Salado College, remnants of which still stand near the center of the village. This educational legacy continues to influence the town, seen in the thriving community of artists, artisans, and craftsmen.
Visitors to Salado can indulge in local flavors at Alexander’s Distillery, a refined restaurant and bar set in a renovated gristmill overlooking Salado Creek. For those interested in local arts, the Salado Glassworks offers live glassblowing demonstrations. The town is also home to Pace Park, which provides scenic walking trails along the creek. Historical exploration is enriched at the Salado Museum and College Park, where the area's rich past is preserved and celebrated.
Jefferson
Jefferson, once a thriving riverport akin to New Orleans, captures a Victorian charm that rivals many European towns. Known as the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas," its streets are lined with 19th-century homes and buildings.
The Jefferson General Store, a throwback to the old general stores, provides a unique shopping experience along with old-fashioned treats and sodas. Culture seekers will appreciate the Jefferson Historical Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits on the region's history. Meanwhile, nature lovers can explore the nearby Caddo Lake State Park, a natural wonder with its cypress swamps and bayous, offering kayaking and bird watching. At Kitt's Kornbread Sandwich & Pie Bar, guests savor comfort food classics in a cozy setting.
Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg, established by German immigrants in 1846, is a town deeply rooted in its German heritage, evident in its architecture and community events such as Oktoberfest. The town's Main Street features gorgeous 19th-century buildings, embodying a European townscape. A focal point is the Vereins Kirche, a distinctive octagonal building in the center of Marktplatz, which once served as a town hall and church.
Visitors can explore the National Museum of the Pacific War, which offers an expansive account of World War II in the Pacific, housed in the original Nimitz Hotel built by the family of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz. Culinary experiences include dining at Otto’s German Bistro, where local ingredients meet traditional German techniques. For outdoor activities, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area provides a massive pink granite dome to hike and explore, offering panoramic views of the Hill Country.
Tarpley
Tarpley, a small, unincorporated community located in Bandera County, exemplifies rural Texan beauty with a landscape that could easily rival the serene, rolling hills of the European countryside. Known primarily for its tranquil environment and scenic views, Tarpley is a hidden gem for those seeking peace and quiet away from urban centers.
One of the main attractions in Tarpley is Mac & Ernie's Roadside Eatery, famous for being featured on the Food Network for its innovative and delicious cuisine that captures the essence of Texas cooking with a gourmet twist. Nearby, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities at Hill Country State Natural Area, offering miles of hiking trails and equestrian paths that showcase the natural beauty of Texas Hill Country.
Castroville
Castroville, proudly known as "The Little Alsace of Texas," was established in 1844 by Henri Castro and immigrants from the Alsace region of France. This heritage is deeply embedded in the town's architecture, with numerous Alsatian-style homes and buildings preserved and standing to this day, providing a unique European ambiance. Notably, the Steinbach House, originally built in the 1600s in Alsace and moved to Castroville in the 1990s, serves as a living museum of Alsatian heritage.
Visitors to Castroville can dine at the Castroville Café, which specializes in blending local Texan ingredients with traditional French culinary techniques. For relaxation and recreation, the Castroville Regional Park offers hiking trails along the Medina River, providing scenic views reminiscent of the lush landscapes of rural France. Additionally, the Alsatian Festival of Texas held annually celebrates the town’s rich Franco-German heritage with traditional food, music, and dance, enhancing its European-like charm.
Gruene
Gruene, pronounced "Green," is a historic district within New Braunfels that was founded by German settlers in the 1840s. A standout feature of Gruene is its conservation of the Gruene Hall, built in 1878, which is Texas’ oldest continually operating dance hall and has hosted musicians like Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett.
Visitors to Gruene can explore unique shopping experiences at The Gruene Antique Company, which houses a vast collection of antiques in an old hardware store. Dining options include the Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar, located in an old cotton gin overlooking the Guadalupe River, offering dishes that blend local flavors with traditional techniques. For wine enthusiasts, The Grapevine offers tastings of local Texas wines in a garden setting, reminiscent of European vineyard tastings.
These seven Texas towns, each uniquely defined by authentic European traditions and preserved architecture, offer travelers cultural experiences typically found thousands of miles away. Visiting them reveals a Europe-inspired heritage hidden within Texas, redefining expectations of the Lone Star State.
