Spend the Day Away from Nolina
Georgetown is considered an ideal place for Austin-area residents wanting to get away for a day. But where do Georgetown residents go? Fortunately, Georgetown and Nolina are ideally situated for day trips to explore the diverse attractions and landscapes of Texas. Here are some fantastic day trip options from Georgetown and Nolina:
Traverse the Hill Country Wine Trail
Taste local wines and immerse yourself in German culture with a trip to Fredericksburg. The Texas Hill Country Wine Trail runs from Austin to Fredericksburg, so tasting local vintages from storied wineries such as Messina Hof, Becker Vineyards and Grape Creek is easy. The town is also known for its German heritage. You can find many authentic German restaurants in downtown as well as cute boutiques, art galleries and antique shops.
A Day in Dripping Springs
Known as the “Gateway to Texas Hill Country,” Dripping Springs is a mere one hour away from Nolina. A favorite spot for those looking to cool down when temperatures start to rise is Hamilton Pool Preserve. The preserve itself is 232 acres of protected natural habitat. You can take guided hikes to better appreciate the beauty. Wineries, breweries and distilleries dot the area around Dripping Springs, so if you like a tipple, this is the place to be. You’ll also discover plenty of shops, restaurants and historical sites.
What About Wimberley?
Wimberley is home to the famed Blue Hole Regional Park swimming hole but there is more to it than that. The park itself offers swimming, hiking trails and opportunities for picnicking in a tranquil setting. The town features art galleries, wineries, dance halls, live music venues and more. Be sure to stop in at the Blair House Inn for a massage or facial.
Lovely Llano
Llano is tiny but mighty. The Dabbs Railroad Hotel Bed and Breakfast established in 1907 was a favorite haunt of Bonnie and Clyde. Llano is also known for its award-winning barbecue. Stopping in at Cooper’s Old Time Pit Barbecue is a must. Inman’s Kitchen Bar-B-Q is famous for their smoked turkey sausage. Near the town is Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. This mystical place is teeming with history, including 400 archeological sites, prehistoric markings, a former campsite for nomadic Native American tribes and historic encounters between the Texas Rangers and native tribes.
See Salado
Salado, aka the “Best Little Town in Texas,” is a charming village located about 20 miles north of Georgetown. One of the many things Salado is known for is Main Street. Stroll along it and take in the many unique shops, art galleries and boutiques. The Salado Sculpture Garden is a serene outdoor space featuring a collection of sculptures by local and regional artists. If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at glassblowing, stop in at Salado Glassworks. Finish the day with dinner at Alexander’s Craft Cocktail & Kitchen located in the Stagecoach Inn, the oldest continuously operating hotel in Texas.
Wonderful Waco
Waco is worth spending the weekend at as there is so much to do, but if you only have a day, here are the most popular spots. Waco is home to the popular Magnolia Market at the Silos, created by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s "Fixer Upper." Other attractions include the Waco Mammoth National Monument and the Dr Pepper Museum. Grab your teens and take a stroll around Baylor University. If you love birds, get out the binoculars and pay a visit to the Lake Waco Wetlands.
Horseshoe Bay
Horseshoe Bay is a scenic resort community located on Lake LBJ about 70 miles northwest of Georgetown. Adventures here include various water activities such as boating, fishing, swimming and kayaking on the lake and hiking at Balcones Canyon Lands National Wildlife Refuge. For off-road enthusiasts, Hidden Falls Adventure Park offers miles of trails for ATVs, motorcycles and 4x4 vehicles. Horseshoe Bay is known for its excellent golf courses. The Horseshoe Bay Resort features three championship courses: Slick Rock, Apple Rock and Ram Rock.
History Lives in Johnson City
Johnson City, located about 50 miles west of Georgetown, offers a variety of activities and attractions. Primary among them is Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. Here you can visit LBJ’s boyhood home and where his grandparents first settled in the 1860s. For STEM-minded kids, the Science Mill is a family-friendly science museum featuring interactive exhibits, a 3D movie theater and hands-on activities. The Exotic Resort Zoo is a drive-through safari park where you can see and interact with exotic animals like zebras, camels and antelope. If you love the outdoors, make a beeline for Pedernales Falls State Park just 10 miles east of Johnson City.
Awesome Austin
Austin residents often head to Georgetown so why not return the favor? Austin is an exciting city with something for everyone. Austin’s well-known live music scene is just one of the many reasons to visit. You’ll also discover a lively arts scene with museums, ballet companies and theatrical performances. Zilker Park is a 361-acre urban park that is home to Barton Springs, a spring-fed swimming hole where the water is always a comfortable 68 degrees. You’ll also find plenty of great shopping, dining and adventure.
Find Your Home in Nolina Today
If you want to explore Texas Hill Country all day, every day, Nolina is the place to be. Our Georgetown location puts you at the center of it all. Stop by today.