Everything is bigger in Texas, including the fun. While Texas is a vast state to explore, Hill Country is where the heartbeat of the Lone Star State steadily pounds. Residents and visitors alike will find natural wonders like waterfalls and caverns to explore in this breathtaking region of Texas. For the less outdoorsy types, Austin shows why it deserves the title of the state capital with its offerings of incredible attractions and vibrant nightlife.
If you are vacationing at the Sunset Ranch RV Park in Leander, Texas, fully take advantage of your visit by discovering the best things to do in Hill Country, Texas.
What Is There To Do in the Texas Hill Country?
A better question to ask is, what is there not to do in the Texas Hill Country? You will soon discover an array of excursions, hobbies, and activities. In fact, you may wonder when you will find time to rest from all the fun. From bourbon tastings and fruit picking to horseback riding and cave tours, the limit to fun is big-sky-country high.
The Top 6 Activities In Texas Hill Country
While you do not want to tone down any of the excitement, you may be overwhelmed trying to decide what to do in Hill Country, Texas. Consider these six activities worth exploring.
1. Ziplining
Sometimes it is okay to let the world zip right by you, especially if you are on a ziplining tour. There are a couple of excellent places to zipline, like Wimberley or Lake Travis. Wear close-toed shoes, strap on a helmet, and go!
2. Drive-thru Safaris
There is no need to visit the African Savanna as several attractions offer visitors a chance to see exotic animals such as giraffes, emus, and zebras. Explore places like the Exotic Resort Zoo or Longneck Manor.
3. See a Castle
You may picture yourself seeing many ranches in Texas, but did you know that nestled in the hills of Texas Hill Country lies Falkenstein Castle? While it is currently not open to the public, you may be able to spot its towers driving through Burnet. Just outside of Hill Country is another castle you can visit – Newman’s Castle.
4. Rodeos
If you want to experience the Texas culture, you ought to visit a rodeo. Experience all the excitement at Kerrville Open Pro Rodeo or the Tejas Rodeo Company.
5. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
The state of Texas is vast and hard to take all in. It may be best to see it from a higher elevation, like in a hot air balloon. While there are a few festivals that are held throughout the year where hot air balloons are available, you can also reserve a private ride with the Austin Aeronauts.
6. Try Some Texas Barbeque
It would be amiss for you to travel to Texas without sampling some mouthwatering Texas barbeque. In the war on who holds the crown for best barbeque, there are viable claims for the throne in Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, and even Missouri, but Texas certainly throws down the gauntlet with its brisket. Restaurants worth a visit include Hays Co. Bar-B-Que or Eaker Barbecue.
What is Special about the Texas Hill Country?
There are a variety of things to do in Texas Hill Country, which makes it a pretty special place to visit. While there are regional restaurants or activities, such as line dancing, that may satisfy the Southern palate or heart, this region does not cater to one specific group alone.
There are plenty of fun activities for all types of people to enjoy when spending time here. It ultimately depends on your trip’s purpose to determine which event or attraction is right for you, your family, or your friend group.
Kid-Friendly Activities
For those bringing the kids along, deciding what to do in Hill Country, Texas, must include activities that will keep them entertained.
- Take the plunge in the Blue Hole or Canyon Lake.
- Go on a thrilling scavenger hunt provided by many visitor centers.
- Indulge in a sweet treat from shops like The Wooden Spoon or Casa Costa Bake Shop.
Romantic Adventures
If you are just bringing your partner for a romantic getaway, there are plenty of opportunities to express your love.
- Find respite in the Sunset Ranch RV Park’s breathtaking scenery.
- Sip on pleasant wine vintages or artisanal brews at a local vineyard or brewery.
- Delight in the beauty found at many of the state parks.
- Have an elegant evening out in Austin.
Friends Weekend
If you have planned a weekend retreat for your friends in the Texas Hill Country, you will find several means of entertainment.
- Check out any local festivals and attractions like the Hairy Man Festival.
- Spend time on the water fly fishing or cruising on a boat.
- Visit a theme park or sporting event.
Where is the Heart of the Texas Hill Country?
The heart of Texas Hill Country must be answered in three parts. For many, the heart of Hill Country is located in Central Texas in the Edwards Plateau. This area provides a beautiful landscape of hills and springs as well as caves.
Centered in the Edwards Plateau is Gillespie County with the county seat in Fredericksburg. Fredericksburg is the largest city in Gillespie County and offers visitors a unique culture to experience. With a rich history of German heritage, many people in the area speak a Texas German dialect.
Many, however, consider Bandera as the heart of Texas Hill Country. Located also in the Edwards Plateau, Bandera has been dubbed as the “Cowboy Capital of the World” as far back as the late 1800’s. While Fredericksburg has a rich history of German culture, Bandera can find its roots in Polish as well as Native American and Hispanic cultures from the immigrants who settled there.
Where Is the Prettiest Place in the Texas Hill Country?
There are many gorgeous areas around the Texas Hill Country. However, the prettiest place to explore has to be the Willow City Loop. This drive is thirteen miles long and offers you stunning views of the wildflowers bedazzling the hills and canyons around Fredericksburg.
The Best Time to Visit the Hill Country in Texas
All year round, the Hill Country in Texas provides a pleasant atmosphere with excellent leisure activities to pursue, however, the peak time to visit the area is in springtime from March until May when the wildflowers are in bloom. The dazzling spectacle of colors is something you will want to see, and the weather is also quite pleasant around this time.
Of course, if you have not ever visited, the best time to visit is now. There are so many things to do in Hill Country Texas! If you are looking for a relaxing place to stay for the week or weekend, Sunset Ranch RV Park offers you the perfect retreat. Contact us today to reserve your stay.