By Robert Macias
Austin Expert, about.com
There's no shortage of convenient weekend getaways near Austin. Within a short drive from Austin, you'll find quaint small towns, water recreation, top-notch barbecue and tons of small, locally owned shops.
1. Fredericksburg
The
bed-and-breakfast capital of Texas, Fredericksburg offers
accommodations ranging from log cabins to downtown lofts. The
pedestrian-friendly downtown area is chock full of antique shops,
restaurants and clothing boutiques. For outdoorsy types, Enchanted Rock
State Natural Area is a short drive away.
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2. San Marcos
The
San Marcos River is an ideal destination during the summertime for
snorkelers, kayakers and tubers. For a mellower outing, you can enjoy a
glass-bottom boat ride at Aquarena Center. Wonder World
offers a unique way to escape the heat in cool caves. Downtown San
Marcos is home to a number of burger joints and a quaint central square.
Bargain hunters flock to the outlet mall on the edge of town.
3. Wimberley
A tiny little speck on the map, Wimberley is a haven for artists and craftspeople.
You can find everything from handcrafted furniture
to fine art, and the artist will probably invite you to hang around and
have a beer or two. Don’t miss the town’s pristine swimming holes: Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole.
4. New Braunfels
New Braunfels is best known as the home of Schlitterbahn Waterpark,
but it is also a prime destination for all-natural water recreation
along the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers. Affordable campgrounds and
historic bed-and-breakfasts provide easy access to fun on the water.
Landa Park in downtown is a favorite destination for tubers and
picnickers alike.
5. Luckenbach
Sure, it’s a bit gimmicky.
There’s really nothing here other than an old general store. The town
wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for the classic country song by Waylon
Jennings. Nevertheless, Luckenbach
is a laid-back place to stop for a little beer and barbecue, and there
are usually a few singers playing tunes in and around the store.
6. Gruene
Historic Gruene Hall
is about all there is to this small town. But if you’re interested in
dancing in a true Texas dance hall, it doesn’t get more authentic than
this. Musical acts range from Jerry Jeff Walker to the Fabulous
Thunderbirds. On Sundays, Gruene Hall hosts a gospel brunch with food
from the nearby Gristmill Restaurant.
7. LaGrange
Another Texas town made famous by a song (by ZZ Top), LaGrange also inspired the play and film titled The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.
You won’t find any brothels around town now, but there’s plenty of
beautiful scenery along the Colorado River. For great live music, head
to the Bugle Boy, a listening room devoted to Texas talent.
8. Lockhart
Barbecue is the main attraction in Lockhart. The meat is so tender at Kreuz Market
that you don’t need a fork or knife -- so they don’t provide
silverware. They also frown on sauces. The meat is served on butcher
paper and you just dig in with your hands. Down the road at Black’s Barbecue, they’re a little less hostile to sauce and silverware, and the brisket is just as good.
