The Definitive Guide To Texas 's Hidden Gems

Texas is a big state, both by physical size and by population. Major cities like Austin, Houston, and several other bustling metro areas are known worldwide for anything from sporting events to top-tier barbeque. With its immense size, however, you will also find numerous small towns, exemplified by their laid-back attitudes and abundance of unique attractions.

Today, let's explore some of the communities in the Lone Star State that don't necessarily sit on the beaten path. Whether you're looking for an escape to the Gulf Coast or an adventure in the deserts of West Texas, surely you will see something that suits your next getaway.

Dripping Springs

Dripping Springs is a great destination in the Texas Hill Country, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty, rich history, and a growing wine scene. Known as the "Gateway to the Hill Country," it sits just a short drive from Austin, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration for city slickers.

The town’s name comes from the many natural springs in the area, and its scenic landscapes are perfect for a wonderful natural outing. Dripping Springs, for example, is surrounded by lush forested parks, including the popular Hamilton Pool Preserve, famous for its towering waterfall and the idyllic swimming hole beneath it. Local trails also provide ways for you to go hiking, biking, and birdwatching, offering a chance to further connect with the area's natural beauty.

As mentioned, the town of Dripping Springs and its surrounding lands also have a burgeoning wine scene, with several wineries, along with breweries and distilleries located nearby. The Dripping Springs Distillery, known for its award-winning spirits, and wineries like the Solaro Estate Vineyards provide both tastings and tours.

Schulenburg

Schulenburg blends its longstanding Czech and German heritage with a fun mix of festivals, restaurants, and other exciting destinations. Located in the heart of Central Texas, Schulenburg is most known for its role in the "Texas Czech Heritage Corridor" and as a center of traditional music, food, and art.

The town of Schulenberg is also notable for being situated about halfway between Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, three of Texas's largest cities, earning it the nickname "Halfway to Everywhere."

The town’s historic district contains several beautifully preserved buildings, including St. Mary's Catholic Church and St. Rose of Lima Church, both renowned for their stunning murals and architecture. Schulenburg is also home to the Painted Churches of Texas, a collection of churches with intricate, hand-painted interiors, many dating back to the 19th century.

Schulenburg hosts the annual "Schulenburg Festival," a lively celebration of local culture, with live music, tasty food, and traditional Czech dances.

This is also a decent outdoor destination, with scenic rural hills and ranches around town offering activities like hiking and birdwatching. Squawk and Skedaddle Campground, a short drive northwest, is a pristine spot to spend the night in one of the area's forested patches.

Marfa

Located in the high desert of West Texas, Marfa is a small town with a big reputation for its unique art scene and other cultural and natural offerings.

It has become an international destination for its contemporary art scene, thanks to the work of minimalist artist Donald Judd, who established the renowned Chinati Foundation in the 1970s. The foundation showcases a rotating selection of large-scale installations in repurposed military buildings, with guided tours available too.

Marfa’s quirky character extends beyond the art world. The town is famous for the mysterious Marfa Lights, a phenomenon in which unexplained glowing orbs appear to glide across the horizon just east of town. You can try to see this strange occurrence for yourself from a dedicated observation area on the edge of town. Even if you don't catch a sight of the Lights, the incredibly clear skies in this somewhat remote part of Texas make for some of the best stargazing opportunities in the country.

If you're hungry after a day out, don’t miss a meal at the Water Stop, a highly recommended bar and eatery beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Gruene

Gruene (pronounced "green") is a tiny community that exemplifies Texas's continuing ties to many of its original German immigrants. Located just outside New Braunfels, this town (which is more akin to a neighborhood of adjacent New Braunfels) is a true gem worth a visit for at least a short day trip.

The heart of Gruene is its historic district, home to the famous Gruene Hall, Texas’s oldest continually operating dance hall. This iconic venue has hosted legendary musicians such as Willie Nelson and George Strait, and you can still catch regularly scheduled live music performances on weekends.

The town’s roots as a cotton-producing community are evident as well in its well-preserved buildings and the Gruene Historic District, which features several shops, restaurants, and other amenities housed in vintage structures, while the Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar offers a relaxing spot for a meal with a view of the nearby Guadalupe River.

Tubing and kayaking along the Guadalupe River are other popular activities, offering a chance to cool off during the often sweltering summer months.

South Padre Island

South Padre Island is considered a resort town that is a truly premier coastal getaway, offering a nice blend of outdoor activities, miles of laid-back beaches, and other family-friendly attractions. Situated along the Gulf of Mexico (or Gulf of America, depending on who you ask), the barrier island in which this town rests is known for its pristine sandy beaches, making it a top destination for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

The island’s shores are a hot spot for kiteboarding and parasailing, with the region's warm waters and windy conditions. South Padre also caters to thrill-seekers, with a variety of activities like jet skiing, deep-sea fishing, and snorkeling, all available in the clear waters of the Gulf.

For something more relaxing, dolphin watching is another popular activity here, with boat tours available starting from town. If you love animals, you will also appreciate the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, where birdwatching and wildlife photography thrive in the region’s diverse ecosystems. The nearby Laguna Madre Nature Trail offers more scenic walking paths with views of the nearby salt flats and wetland habitats.

After a day in the sun, the island's dining scene offers everything from fresh seafood to Tex-Mex, making it a culinary delight for visitors. Louie's Backyard is an incredibly popular local, specializing in surf 'n' turf and featuring several bars and dancing areas within.

Salado

Incorporated in 1867, Salado is yet another small Texas town with a detailed historic district. The town’s history especially comes to life at the Salado Museum, which houses exhibits about the town’s early days, including its role as a stagecoach stop on the historic Chisholm Trail.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Salado Creek offers some scenic spots for fishing and picnicking. For something directly in town, the nearby College Hill Park features a beautiful walking trail that winds past historic landmarks, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Just north of town is one of Texas's most underrated natural landmarks- Chalk Ridge Falls Park. Sitting along the Lampasas River, the park, as you could have guessed, contains a number of picturesque waterfalls and even a suspension bridge to help get you across the water. The river is fed by Stillhouse Hollow Lake, one of the biggest bodies of water in the region and another great destination for a nature-filled outing.

Discover Texas's Best Hidden Surprises this Weekend

Texas is certainly home to some of the most distinctive small towns in the country, each offering its own assortment of friendly charm, history, and attractions. From the artistic community of Marfa to the sun-soaked shores of South Padre Island, this selection of destinations shows off the diverse landscapes and cultures that make Texas so captivating.

As you plan your next getaway, consider these hidden gems in the Lone Star State for a memorable experience.