These 13 Towns In Texas Were Ranked Among US Favorites In 2024
Texas shines as a state filled with gorgeous landscapes, diverse cultures from all over the world, and a vibrant history dating back to the birth of our nation. Some areas of the state are favorites among residents and visitors alike. The cities that people tend to like are the ones that have a lot of natural beauty and places to enjoy the outdoors. Visitors also like charming architecture with a mix of modern and interesting buildings and structures that have historical significance. Finally, many people love towns with a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of things to do and places to relax and connect with friends and families. Here are the 13 Texas towns that are among the favorites in 2024.
Fredericksburg
The 2011 film “Seven Days in Utopia” is the most recognizable use of this town in Texas. Nestled in the rolling hills of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a town filled with an interesting history and a rich diversity of cultures where America and Mexico come together. Many visitors to Fredericksburg feel they are experiencing life as it was decades ago as if they had stepped back in time.
Visitors to Fredericksburg love to see sights like Cross Mountain, a point overlooking the town that is steeped in history dating back to when Native Americans lived there. Many parks throughout the area, such as Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, have other opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with campgrounds and natural hiking trails. There are also many modern buildings in Fredericksburg.
Fredericksburg has many museums and festivals that celebrate the vast amount of cultures in the city’s population. Visit the Pacific Warfare Museum to discover the history of a short-lived time in the city’s past. If you are looking to try some good food, you can enjoy the annual Oyster Festival, one of the country's most popular eating events.
Strolling down the streets of Laredo offers a unique look into the history of Texas Hill Country. With shops like All Gussied Up and the Antiques Mall of Fredericksburg lining the streets and places like Java Ranch to have a cup of coffee or a drink, you will find a lot of reasons to come back again and again.
Horseshoe Bay
If you like relaxing by the water or doing activities like fishing, swimming, and water skiing, Horseshoe Bay will be a place you should put on your itinerary. This resort town is located on Lake Lyndon B. Johnson and is a vacation destination for many Texans.
When you wake up in the morning and see the sunlight glistening on the top of Lake Johnson, you will know that your eyes are not big enough to take in all the beauty Horseshoe Bay has to offer. The lake is framed with rolling hills and a vast expanse of pristine land.
The design of the beautiful homes and waterfront properties is one of the reasons to visit Horseshoe Bay. In addition, you will find breathtaking views of the lake that was once a favorite spot of President Johnson where he and his wife entertained foreign dignitaries.
Every year, the skies fill with hot air balloons during the annual festival. It is a sight to behold you will not soon forget. Visitors also love viewing art at places like the Olio Art Gallery.
Horseshoe Bay is a great place to go to escape the world and enjoy relaxing. Sitting on the banks of Lake LBJ will help you release your worries and enjoy a cool breeze and a drink by the water.
Marble Falls
Marble Falls is a much-loved destination for many visitors coming through Texas, as well as people who have lived in Texas their entire lives. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and the beautiful Lake Marble Falls. This town has a lot of lush parks and scenic trails that are inviting to people who love the outdoors. You will find many activities to do, such as hiking and fishing.
The downtown area of Marble Falls is quaint, but vibrant. There are many unique places to visit and things to see. You can find great food at Adriano's Italian Restaurant, do some shopping at Bernie's Art Gallery, and unwind at the end of the day with a drink at the Blue Bonnet Cafe. Many visitors enjoy the events that happen in town like Music on Main where the Old Oak Square comes alive with music and fun that makes everyone feel at home.
Visitors love Marble Falls because of its small-town charm and natural beauty. With plenty of activities and attractions available, this is one of the most sought towns to live in today.
Grapevine
With Lake Grapevine as a backdrop, Grapevine, Texas, offers a community that blends the outdoors and rich history. It is a prime destination for visitors who want to feel like part of a connected and diverse community while not losing the natural appeal that many towns in Texas have to offer. Stunning waterfronts and picture-perfect trails line the border of Grapevine. There are plenty of places to fish and have a picnic, such as Lakeview Park. You will be able to see a beautiful sunset over Lake Grapevine at Rockledge Park.
Grapevine has a lot of contemporary architecture, but you will find plenty of old buildings with a lot of rich history. You can find a lot to do downtown, like shopping in boutiques such as Ooh La La, looking at beautiful art at A Touch of Paris, or having a romantic dinner at Balkan Garden Bistro. There are plenty of events happening in town all the time, including the Grape Jam Bluegrass Festival, where the town square gazebo comes alive with music, food, and fun!
Grapevine has much to offer residents, from beautiful natural landscapes to a vibrant city filled with culture and history. It is truly one of the hidden gems of Texas.
Weatherford
Weatherford is a charming city that offers small-town charm and modern amenities while still having a classic feel. It is a destination for visitors to Texas and residents of neighboring communities. Surrounded by rolling hills, Weatherford has fields full of lush greenery and wildflowers. Beautiful parks and lakes offer a gorgeous backdrop for spending time outside.
Many historic buildings are featured throughout Weatherford, including the Parker County Courthouse and its unique look. This classic architecture is also reflected in many of the homes in the downtown area that have been well-preserved.
The annual Peach Festival is a staple for the citizens of Weatherford. Every year the streets are filled with vendors, food trucks, musicians, and fun activities. In addition, visitors will appreciate the town’s art scene with many galleries and antique shops.
Visitors and residents find plenty to love in Weatherford. There are a lot of reasons to keep going back time and again.
Copperas Cove
This community is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and the southern charm visitors are looking for. There is no short supply of rolling hills and gorgeous landscapes. Copperas Cove City Park offers outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
The downtown area of Copperas Cove features many pieces of historic architecture and modern delights. There is plenty to do, like taking a walking ghost tour of the town or seeing exotic animals up close at Topsey Exotic Ranch and Drive Thru Safari. Do not miss out on the events happening throughout the year, such as the Fall-O-Ween Festival and Fishing in the Park.
Copperas Cove’s sense of community and family helps to keep it filled with a small-town atmosphere that visitors love to experience.
Rockport
This lovely coastal community is located near the Gulf of Mexico. Rich wildlife and colorful sunsets are some of the features to be found in Rockport. The town also boasts beautiful walking trails and greenery. The Gulf is not far away when you feel like fishing or going for a swim.
The gorgeously designed Fulton Mansion stands out among some older homes that sightseers love to visit when coming through town. Other unique destinations include the Big Tree, a 1,000-year-old live oak tree that stands over 40 feet tall and 90 feet wide. It has stood since long before the birth of our nation and is one of the wonders of the US that has to be seen.
There are many unique festivals and events taking place in Rockport all year long. Some events focus on music, like the Rockport Gospel Music Festival. Other events happen so that visitors can experience the wonderful food the area has to offer, such as the Rockport Crawfish Cook-Off.
Rockport is a cultural tapestry and a fascinating destination and oasis in South Texas.
Salado
One of the most unique towns in Texas, Salado is a perfect blend of history and modern flair. With many interesting buildings, landscapes, and churches, Salado has a lot of history.
The downtown area of Salado is framed with beautifully restored buildings filled with history and character. They are now home to modern businesses such as 300 Royal where you will find an ecclectic collection of antiques, or Big Tony's Cheesesteaks where you can get a beautifully crafted meal.
Events happen all the time for the entertainment of the community. Live music is played frequently in the downtown area, and a glassworks event is set up occasionally where shoppers can blow their own glass items. You will truly love visiting this charming small town.
Huntsville
Huntsville is a wonderful destination for anyone looking for a rich cultural heritage and plenty of history. This town is nestled near the gorgeous Sam Houston National Forest, offering opportunities to hike amid the stunning natural landscapes, fish for crappie, catfish, or trout, or spend some time watching the local wildlife and abundant birds.
The downtown area has many charming historic buildings that are now home to unique local businesses. Shops and boutiques of all types line the streets, and a range of foods can be found as well. If you want some classic Texas barbecue or delicious authentic pizza, you can find it there.
Huntsville is a welcoming town filled with southern charm. It offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural uniqeness to make it an inviting destination for visitors again and again.
Smithville
If you are looking for a charming getaway that has a mix of outdoor activities and small-town charm, you should pay a visit to Smithville. Every sunrise brings stunning views of rolling hills and the lush greenery that surrounds the area. This tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking on the Colorado River. The town is surrounded by natural beauty that lends itself to a day of exploration, trekking the endless winding trails, and enjoying the crisp, clean air.
Music fills the air at events like the Smithville Fiddlers' Reunion. People come together for a day of dancing, fellowship, and food. Many of the local cafes and diners set up food trucks and tents. You can taste many of the delicacies the town has to offer and explore the historic streets. Smithville offers a unique place to unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy some southern hospitality.
Gonzales
This town has a rich cultural heritage and is influenced by Mexico. Located outside San Antonio, the warm Central Texas climate makes it a stopping point for many travelers. Gonzales is in the beautiful Texas countryside, surrounded by hills and landscapes that make it perfect for spending time outside.
Beautifully preserved buildings bring out the charming historic architecture Gonzales has to offer. History buffs will love touring the town and seeing sites like the cannon that was used in the "Come and Take It" incident against Mexican troops. Visitors also enjoy the festivals that come to town, such as the Cattle Country Music Festival and the Gonzales Winterfest Celebration.
Boerne
This vibrant city is steeped in history and culture. It offers a unique blend of natural Southern charm and modern growth. With delicious local cuisine and a diverse community, Boerne is a favorite among residents and visitors.
Lush piney woods, peacefully quiet bayous, and gorgeous fields of wildflowers are some of the things Boerne can be proud of. People who love the outdoors can enjoy the parks and wildlife refuges of the area. Historic Victorian homes and modern structures give a blend of old and new. The city’s cultural heritage is displayed with buildings throughout the downtown area. Wine tasting, golf, horseback riding, and shopping are a few of the things you will find to do here.
Events unique to the city happen in Boerne all the time. Enjoy the Farmers Market at the Cibolo and the Old West Christmas Light Fest. Boerne is a welcoming community with a vibrant Southern charm. Visitors are welcome year-round to enjoy its unique beauty.
South Padre Island
This barrier island draws in visitors from around the world to enjoy its beautiful beaches and take part in a fun nightlife. With a warm climate all year, vacationers can enjoy both as much as they want. Nature was kind to South Padre Island by giving it gorgeous beaches with crystal clear waters. Watching a sunset from the island’s coastal dunes is a stunning sight.
The most interesting architecture to be found on South Padre Island is in the colorful beachfront homes. Mostly painted with pastel colors, they blend with the beach surroundings and give a relaxing vibe.
The beach culture is strong on South Padre Island. There is an endless supply of beach events like sandcastle-building competitions. The community is determined in its conservation efforts, protecting the local ecosystems and wildlife such as rare birds, turtles, and fish.
If you want stunning beaches and atmosphere, South Padre Island offers a paradise filled with memories to last a lifetime.
Texas offers plenty of culture, history, and fun for residents and visitors. These 13 towns are among the favorites in 2024, but the list is far from complete. There are interesting things to see and enjoy throughout the Lonestar State. When you plan a visit or consider moving, these towns show the true soul of the state and help to invite everyone to experience what Texas has to offer.
