Last modified on May 27th, 2020 at 6:32 pm

8 GREAT DAY TRIPS CLOSE TO GEORGETOWN, TX

The beautiful Texas Hill Country is one of the most beloved areas of the state. From its quaint historic small towns, to its picturesque parks surrounded by rolling green hills, expansive lakes and winding rivers, to the rich cultural, arts, and music scenes, there are so many wonderful towns to explore and great day trips near Georgetown, TX to make.

Gardens at Verde Vista residents have a premier central location in the heart of this gorgeous landscape that is ideal for picking an adventure in any direction. We’ve shared eight of our favorite Georgetown, TX day trips, all less than a two-hour drive from this private, luxury, low maintenance garden home and villa community. And with the blissful freedom of lock-and-leave convenience, you’ll discover you have more time than ever to experience the endless treasures of this amazing area – completely carefree!

CELEBRATE GERMAN CULTURE AND GREAT WINE IN FREDERICKSBURG

The rich German history and more than 50 area wineries make Fredericksburg one of the most popular destination cities near Georgetown, TX. Taste your way through the Hill Country Wine Trail – stopping by well-established wineries like Messina Hof, Becker Vineyards, Grape Creek and newer ones like Kuhlman Cellars, William Chris, Lost Draw, and more. When you’ve sampled your fill of local wine, head to downtown Fredericksburg to satiate your appetite at one of the many authentic German restaurants or eclectic eateries lining Main Street. If you’re looking for a unique gift for a special occasion or special someone, this charming city is brimming with antique, local artisan, and specialty shops to browse. Visiting Fredericksburg any time of year is a delight with world-famous peaches to sample in late spring and summer, the country’s largest wildflower farm, and fun-filled fall festivals including Oktoberfest, Crawfish Festival, Gillespie County Fair. If you stay overnight, be sure to check out one of the Sunday houses.

REVEL IN THE PEACE AND TRANQUILITY OF ENCHANTED ROCK

Located between Llano and Fredericksburg, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a National Natural Landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places. This mystical place is teeming with history:  400 archeological sites, prehistoric markings, a former campsite for nomadic Native American tribes, and historic encounters between the Texas Rangers and native tribes. 250,000 visitors each year climb the ancient pink dome and take in the awe-inspiring view from the summit. Hike the various trails, explore hidden caves, camp, picnic, or simply enjoy the incredible natural beauty!

TAKE A TRIP BACK IN TIME ABOARD THE AUSTIN STEAM TRAIN

Hop aboard the Hill Country Flyer or the Bertram Flyer, or take friends on a Murder Mystery trip or take the grandkids for a memorable holiday ride aboard the North Pole Flyer. Escape the 21st Century with a relaxing vintage steam train railroad ride through the Texas Hill Country, ranches, and historic neighborhoods. And for those that want time to get off and stretch their legs, the Hill Country Flyer offers a two-hour layover to explore Burnet’s historic town square and a Wild West show. All routes begin at the Cedar Park Depot.

DISCOVER OLD WEST CHARM AND LIP-SMACKING BBQ IN LLANO

A little over an hour from Georgetown, Llano is perfect for a day trip or even an overnight excursion with historic homes and hotels turned bed and breakfasts like The Badu House and The Dabbs Railroad Hotel Bed and Breakfast established in 1907. The Dabbs is the last of the Texas Railroad and River hotels and a former frequent haunt of Bonnie and Clyde. This small town will captivate your heart with its beautiful town square, shops, and the lovely Badu Park and Llano Falls. And also make sure to stop by Cooper’s Barbecue to experience some of the best barbecue in the entire State of Texas!

HIKE, FISH, SWIM OR PADDLE AT COLORADO BEND STATE PARK

Colorado Bend State Park is one of the most picturesque parks in the Hill Country with slow moving water flowing through the beautiful canyon lands of the Colorado River. Nature lovers flock to this 5,328-acre park to enjoy hiking, camping, mountain biking, caving, fishing, swimming, paddling, birding and wildlife viewing, as well as guided tours. The expansive trail system offers 32 miles of multi-use routes for various skill levels to explore the entire park. Located 70 miles from Gardens at Verde Vista, it’s the perfect place to take a picnic and spend the day enveloped in the Hill Country’s natural beauty.

BROWSE DOZENS OF LOCAL ARTISANS, ANTIQUE, CRAFT SHOPS AND MORE IN SALADO

Known as the “Best Little Town in Texas”, Salado has a little something for everyone – especially those who love to shop and eat. The Main Street area offers a marketplace with over 60 shops and artists galleries. You’ll find everything from fine art, antiques, pottery, crafts, collectibles, decor, handcrafted furniture, and trendy or exclusive fashions to gourmet food and wine scattered among the shops. It’s a great place to spend the day with friends, and it’s only a short half hour drive from the Gardens at Verde Vista’s new homes in Georgetown, TX.

VISIT ONE OF THE MOST UNIQUE PARKS IN GEORGETOWN

Just five blocks north of Georgetown Square you’ll find Blue Hole Regional Park, a scenic lagoon bordered by limestone bluffs along the South Fork of the San Gabriel River. Blue Hole Georgetown is a popular spot for those looking to cool off on a hot summer day.

Visitors to Blue Hole Park love its clear water, refreshing waterfalls, and trails. If you want to explore, paved walking and biking trails make for an easy excursion. Families will enjoy swimming and wading in the cool waters (just a note, water shoes are recommended).

Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many shaded spots, or a small grill for a cookout. This is the perfect place for a getaway, right in the middle of Georgetown! Best of all, there’s no admission charge and free parking is available about a block away.

SO MANY THINGS TO DO IN DRIPPING SPRINGS!

Dripping Springs is about an hour’s drive from Georgetown, and well worth the trip! From boutique shopping to distilleries to natural attractions, it’s easy to spend a full day exploring everything this friendly town has to offer.

You might want to start your day with a dip in Hamilton Pool. Hamilton Pool Preserve was created when the dome of an underground river collapsed thousands of years ago as the result of erosion. Hamilton Pool has been a popular summer swimming spot for local residents since the 1960s. Just a tip, this is a popular spot on hot summer days, so plan accordingly. Reserve a spot online in advance, and bring cash to cover the per-person entrance fees since credit and debit cards are not accepted at the preserve.

Once you arrive, you’ll find 232 acres of protected natural habitat. The main attraction is the jade green pool into which a 50-foot waterfall flows. Water temperatures in Hamilton Pool reach 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, we recommend a visit to Jester King Brewery in Dripping Springs. Jester King is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent beers and delicious pizza. Craving something other than pizza? Not to worry – there are tons of other breweries nearby with menus featuring everything from fish tacos to Tex Mex.

Maybe your idea of the perfect day trip includes visiting a Dripping Springs distillery. You’re in luck! There are several options within easy driving distance of each other.

One of the more popular distillery destinations near Dripping Springs is Deep Eddy Vodka. Sample the different flavors, check out the gift shop, and grab some Texas Barbecue from the food truck out front.

Frog Pond Distillery is a family-friendly spot that makes both gin and vodka. Kick back on the porch and enjoy gorgeous Hill Country views while you sip one of the day’s featured cocktails.

LIVE THE LOCK-AND-LEAVE LIFESTYLE IN A NEW GARDENS AT VERDE VISTA GARDEN HOME OR VILLA

Ready for a new life where you’re free to take great day trips whenever you want? Change your life this year!  Schedule a private tour of Gardens at Verde Vista’s model and move-in ready homes, brand new private Amenity Center, and final phase of beautiful Hill Country homesites. Don’t wait, contact us today to discover the blissful freedom of lock-and-leave living.

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