Known as the Lone Star state and being the second largest state in the United States of America, Texas is home to many beautiful small towns, scrumptious food, great and growing music scene, and gorgeous landscapes. From historic landmarks to fantastic live music venues, exciting football games and picturesque mountains, Texas has an endless list of things to discover for every type of traveller there is. One of the best ways to explore Texas is through its lovely small towns, which each has its own charm. We’ve compiled a list of 10 beautiful small towns in Texas for you to check out on your next trip here!
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.
1. Gruene (from USD 318)
Gruene is a lovely small town in Texas that is a historic district situated within New Braunfels, which is roughly an hour drive from Austin. Gruene was originally populated by German cotton farmers since before the Civil War but has now shifted its economy to be supported by tourism. Till today, tourists have loved its rustic old Texan feel and are known to be the best spot for antique lovers, river sports enthusiasts and even music lovers. The next time you’re in town, make sure to stay at Gruene River Hotel & Retreat. All guestrooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV with cable channels and fitted with a private bathroom. Just a few minutes drive from this hotel are several popular fishing spots, Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort and San Marcos Premium Outlets.
Gruene River Hotel & Retreat
Address: 1235 Gruene Road
80.24 km (49.9 mi) from Grape Creek Vineyards
2. Yoakum (from USD 74)
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms with comfortable beds.
Convenient location with clean, updated facilities and friendly staff.
Great access to local events and attractions, though some minor maintenance issues in rooms.
Breakfast options were satisfactory, but some inconsistencies and limitations were noted.
Located in the heart of South Texas and the home of cattle country is where you’ll find a small town called Yoakum. Yoakum boasts gorgeous rolling hills and fields, lovely historic structures, and stunning wildlife. Since the 19th century, Yoakum has been Texas’ land of leather, so make a visit to any Saddle-makers tanneries and bring home any of their handcrafted leather goods. The best place to stay in Yoakum is Black Gold Inn located along 207 Highway 77 Alternate South. This comfy accommodation is equipped with an outdoor pool and barbecue facilities, which is great if you’re planning for a family trip or just a hang out with friends. Each room includes a private bathroom with a bath, while certain rooms come with a kitchen and an oven.
Black Gold Inn
Address: 207 Highway 77 Alternate South
182.36 km (113.4 mi) from Grape Creek Vineyards
3. Wimberley (from USD 309)
Home to scenic locations and one of the best swimming holes in Texas, Wimberley is situated where the Cypress Creek and the Blanco River meet. Wimberley has an artsy vibe with a downtown square that welcomes both locals and tourists from all over the world. Market Days, which is held the first Saturday of every month, featuring over hundreds of vendors. You’ll be able to shop for a plethora of things, ranging from clothes to furniture and even scrumptious local food. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, be sure to check out the Jacobs Well and The Blue Hole, where you can take a dip in a stunning natural pool. Enjoy a cosy stay at Collective Hill Country when you’re in Wimberley. There is an in-house restaurant, which serves local cuisine and offers gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options. Guests can even enjoy hiking nearby Collective Hill Country. Closest landmarks include San Marcos River, Dunbar Park and the Blanco River just to name a few.
Collective Hill Country
Address: 7431 Fulton Ranch Rd
70.18 km (43.7 mi) from Grape Creek Vineyards
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4. Port Aransas (from USD 69)
Port Aransas is a city on Mustang Island, which is on the Texas coast. Known as the ‘Best Kept Secret on the Gulf Coast, Port Aransas is perfect for great family vacations and also home to the finest fishing spots in Texas. Port Aransas has always been a famous summer spot for visitors looking for a mix of outdoor activities, delectable seafood restaurants and cultural attractions. Be sure to stay at Shark Reef Resort Motel & Cottages, a beach-themed décor motel located nearby popular landmarks such as Port Aransas Art Center and I.B. Magee Beach Park.
Shark Reef Resort Motel & Cottages
Address: 314 Cut-Off Road
310.08 km (192.7 mi) from Grape Creek Vineyards
5. Fredericksburg (from USD 250)
Known for its wineries and vineyards, Fredericksburg is a city located in central Texas. The city’s German heritage can be seen at the Pioneer Museum, which showcases settlers’ homesteads and artefacts. This beautiful small town is also one of the best destinations in Texas for authentic German and Czech dining. For shopping wise, stroll along the Main Street where you can find everything ranging from home décor to antique shops and local artisans. Enjoy a comfy stay at Rarumpelpunzeldornaschenwittchen, placed just nearby famous Texas Wine Country wineries. It’s a German-themed bed and breakfast where guests can enjoy the on-site gardens, frog pond and patio. It is the ideal place to stay as the area is popular for its wineries and agriculture. Each cottage includes a living room, private bathroom and patio.
Rarumpelpunzeldornaschenwittchen
Address: 527 Chaparral Dr
3.26 km (2.1 mi) from Grape Creek Vineyards
6. Salado (from USD 129)
Reasonable rates for a historic hotel with a resort-like feel.
Beautiful pool, lush grounds, and a quaint, boutique lodging experience.
Conveniently located in the heart of Salado, walking distance to shops and restaurants.
Delicious food at the on-site restaurant, with plenty of dining options nearby.
Situated just an hour north of Texas, Salado is a fantastic choice for a weekend getaway and family trips. Known for its creativity, you’ll be able to find endless shops filled with the works of locally and nationally known artists. Salado often has events that celebrate their heritage and festivals as well. Make a visit to Salado Creek and Salado’s Cultural Arts District where you’ll be able to appreciate its abundance of art and culture. Make a visit to any of their local craft breweries to have a taste while you’re in town. Check in at the Stagecoach Inn just situated at 416 South Main St. It features an outdoor swimming pool, garden, restaurant and even a bar.
Shady Villa Hotel
Address: 416 South Main St
138.69 km (86.2 mi) from Grape Creek Vineyards
7. Canyon (from USD 59)
Canyon is known for its famous tourist attractions in the state of Texas. One if it includes The Palo Duro Canyon State which is the perfect place to enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and biking. The Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum is the largest history museum in Texas where visitors can revisit the time of the dinosaurs or read through the history of the city’s heritage. You don’t have to look far to find unique shopping, entertainment and delicious food when in Canyon. Make sure to stay at Buffalo Inn, where the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum is just less than a 5-minute drive. Located just across from West Texas A&M University, guests loved how centrally situated this motel is and the friendly staff are always ready to accommodate your needs.
Buffalo Inn Vintage MOTEL
Address: 300 23rd Street
608.05 km (377.9 mi) from Grape Creek Vineyards
8. Dripping Springs (from USD 125)
Just a half hour from Austin, Dripping Springs is home to some of the best outdoor activities in Texas and wonderful attractions. Hamilton Pool has invited plenty of people from all over the states just to take a dip in this pool. Surrounded by lush landscapes and filled with cool waters, the pool was formed when the dome of an underground river collapsed hence, the unique structure of the pool. Visit the picturesque park, Pedernales Fall State Park, and enjoy a day of hiking trails, horseback riding and plenty of other outdoor activities. Dripping Springs is also big on craft distilleries and historic shopping districts so don’t forget to check them out. Outpost Motel is the ideal accommodation if you’re looking for easy access to grocery stores, restaurants and markets.
Outpost Motel
Address: 26200 Ranch Road 12
61.33 km (38.2 mi) from Grape Creek Vineyards
9. Marfa (from USD 172)
A small desert city located in west Texas, Marfa is an artistic haven. Just outside of town, there is a viewing platform where both locals and tourists can view the “Marfa Lights” phenomenon. Some of the things to do in Marfa include checking out The Chinati Foundation, which was created by artist Donald Judd. Visit Prada Marfa, a working Prada store that sits on the dusty desert road, which is actually an installation by Elmgreen and Dragset. If art isn’t your thing, hike the many state and national parks in the Big Bend region! Once you’re done for the day, rest up at 105 Lincoln, a minimally designed accommodation located right in the centre of town. 105 Lincoln offers facilities such as an outdoor fireplace, sun terrace, barbecue facilities, and a garden just to name a few.
The Lincoln Marfa
Address: 105 West Lincoln Street
509.22 km (316.5 mi) from Grape Creek Vineyards
10. Jefferson
Situated in the northeast corner of the state, Jefferson has a population of just over 2,000 people and is known for its history. The town boasts a vivid presence in the history of Texas. Jefferson has tons of bed and breakfast inns, places of entertainments and shops. It’s a must to visit the Jefferson Historical Museum, Caddo Lake State Park, Freeman Plantation, and Turning Basin Riverboat Tours. When you’re in Jefferson, make sure to stay at Benefield House Bed & Breakfast for homely comfort. A quaint Victorian home, Benefield House Bed & breakfast offers daily breakfast to guests made by the owner. This accommodation comes equipped with free Wifi, an outdoor terrace, garden and even wellness facilities.
Benefield House Bed & Breakfast
Address: 1009 S LINE ST
500.93 km (311.3 mi) from Grape Creek Vineyards
Small towns with an endless list of experiences
Texas is known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich and historic culture, and friendly Southern hospitality. Texans are absolutely welcoming people who love their outdoors and city fiercely. Stay in one of these Texan towns to feel the culture and beauty of this state!
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