Hey, we love Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston, but there’s something nice about finding a charming little town in Texas to get away from it all. As a Texas native, I have compiled my list of best small towns in Texas.
They may look like they’re lacking in big city amenities, but they are overflowing with richness, hospitality, and charm. Each of these Texas towns is a gem, and worth a weekend getaway when you’re in the mood to explore.
Best Small Towns in Texas
McKinney
Old town McKinney is consistently listed as a favorite Texas spot for its restaurants, shops, art, and events year-round. Take off for a nice weekend near the holidays for the Christmas Tree lighting, or come earlier for the annual Oktoberfest celebration. Whatever you do, don’t skip the coffee and a slice of pie at Emporium Pies.
Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg is one of my personal favorite destinations in Texas. It’s one of those well-preserved historic towns where you could easily spend a weekend and still not see everything. If you love celebrations and festivals, their Oktoberfest is second to none in Texas.
If you prefer a less crowded weekend experience, spring, early summer and fall are excellent times to go. Visit local Fredericksburg TX wineries along Hwy 290, vineyards, breathtaking Hill Country lavender fields, and eat at award-winning restaurants.
If shopping is your passion, there is no place in Texas like Fredericksburg at Christmas. Not to mention the abundance of boutiques along Main Street.
Grab an AirBnB and sit a spell for a few days while you eat some great German food at Otto’s, drink Texas wines and support local artisans. Don’t forget to hit up Hill Country Donuts for a Kolache!
Rockport
Nothing says quaint coastal town quite like Rockport does. Rockport has always had a special place in my heart. Just down the coast from where I grew up, and the honeymoon destination of my grandparents, Rockport is still a special place to relax for a few days or a few months (Hey, winter Texans!).
Hit hard by Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Rockport is in its “rebirth” phase. After visiting this past fall, I realized the community has really banded together. I have no doubts it will rise like a phoenix and come out stronger than ever.
The main street in Rockport (Austin St.) is lined with colorful shops, boutiques and art galleries just waiting to be explored.
If fishing and birdwatching are your hobbies, there is no town in Texas more perfect than Rockport. In fact, Aransas County is a destination to some of the best fishing in the country. Rockport Beach is also Texas’ first blue wave beach, meaning it’s super clean.
While you’re there, stop by The Texas Maritime Museum, take in a stroll along the nearby marina to watch the fishing boats roll in, and grab a bite to eat at 495 Chesapeake Eats. There are plenty of rental cottages in Rockport, but if you’re more of a camper, the RV parks are abundant.
New Braunfels & Gruene
Founded in 1845 by German settlers, New Braunfels and the neighboring village of Gruene are my favorite little day-trip spots in the Central Texas region. But for those who like to take their time exploring, these two Texas towns are worth a full weekend trip.
The shopping in New Braunfels’ historic downtown offers something for everyone; from antiques to local artisans, home and gift shops. Points of interest in New Braunfels include Alpine Haus and Krauses German Restaurant, Schlitterbahn or tubing down the river. Before you leave, stop by Naeglin’s Bakery for fresh-made bread and pastries.
When you arrive in Gruene, the first stop should be Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest continuously operated dance hall. For Texans, Gruene Hall is a national treasure. Oftentimes busy with tourists on weekends, it’s best to go on off-days or early to avoid any crowds that may appear later in the evening, unless dancing to live music is on your agenda!
Such country acts like George Strait, Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, and even my step-grandfather, who played there on Sundays when it was still just a German dance hall. If you’re lucky enough to grab tickets for Gruene Hall Gospel Brunch, do it!
Besides Gruene Hall, the village boasts tons of boutique shopping, restaurants, and a wine tasting room offering some of Texas’ best wines. If you’re looking for even more outside of the box things to do, check out this awesome list of Best Things to Do in New Braunfels.
Boerne
Just 30 miles north of San Antonio, you’ll find the adorable town of Boerne (pronounced “Bernie”). The town’s Main Street is lined with exquisite restaurants (Little Gretel, The Creek, Mary’s Tacos), gift shops, antique shops, art galleries, local businesses, craft beer, coffee shops, bakeries, and wine bars.
Cibolo Creek runs through the idyllic town of historic buildings, creating a perfect waters edge trail for jogging, hiking, and biking.
Boerne is also home to the Cave Without a Name and Cascade Caverns. Make sure to stop into Bear Moon Bakery & Cafe for the best pastries and coffee!
Helotes (Old Town Helotes)
Old Town Helotes is definitely on the up and up. Named a ‘best cool spot in Texas’ by Reader’s Digest, Helotes is maintaining that reputation. I stumbled upon this little town on a Thursday afternoon. It’s a great place to park and walk for a day or relax in the evening under the string lights at the beer garden. Before you go, download the walking tour brochure below.
What small Texas towns have you fell in love with? Leave a comment below! 👇