Great Things to See in the Texas Hill Country

By Danno Wise

Texas Travel Expert, about.com

The Texas Hill Country is extremely popular among both in-state and out-of-state visitors. Among the rolling hills are a number of quaint cities and towns, which offer visitors the opportunity to experience some unique attractions in addition to the Hill Country's natural beauty.

1.  Wonder World Park[post_ads_2]

The only earthquake formed cave open to the public in Texas is the central attraction of Wonder World Park, which is located along the Balcones Fault Line in San Marcos. Wonder World Park is also the oldest cave tour in Texas, having operated continuously since 1903. Today, Wonder World Park offers cave tours, educational earthquake programs, a wildlife park, train rides and many more activities for the whole family, including an anti-gravity chamber and 'Mystery Mountain.'

2.  Schlitterbahn Water Park - New Braunfels

New Braunfels' Schlitterbahn Park is Texas' oldest and most unique waterpark. In fact, it is generally considered one of the best and most innovative waterparks in the country. Schlitterbahn New Braunfels has been named the 'World's Best Waterpark' by Amusement Today magazine nearly a dozen times. And, with good reason. Schlitterbahn New Braunfel's features over 3 miles of tubing, 3 watercoasters, the world's first artificial wave machine, 7 children play areas, and 17 waterslides. Its most unique feature is the use of inner tubes for a variety of water rides and recreation, ranging from the lazily flowing Kristal River to the wild rapids of the Whitewater Tube Chute. Without a doubt, Schlitterbahn New Braunfels offers something for everyone and is especially welcoming on those hot Texas summer days.

3.  Enchanted Rock State Park[post_ads_2]

Rising 425 feet above the ground (1825 feet above sea level), Enchanted Rock is one of the largest natural rock formations in the nation. Having been designated a National Natural Landmark since 1970, Enchanted Rock also has a fascinating history with the native peoples of Texas and early Texas settlers. Hiking is hands down the most popular recreational activity at Enchanted Rock State Park, but camping, birdwatching and rock climbing are also popular activities

4.  Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, a 400-acre drive-through safari located in the Texas Hill Country, features four miles of driving trails. Visitors to the park are able to stay in their vehicle and tour the park while viewing exotic animals such as giraffes, ostrich, zebras, rhinos, wildebeast and more. In all, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch boasts more than 40 species of animals.

5.  Texas State Capitol[post_ads_2]

The largest city in the Texas Hill Country region, Austin is also the capital of Texas. The state capitol building is one of the state's most popular attractions and is a must-see for anyone visiting the Texas Hill Country. Located on 11th Street, between Lavaca and San Jacinto in Austin, the Capitol Complex covers 22 acres. The capitol, which was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1986, is open to the public at no charge.

6.  Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum

Also located in Austin, the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum is one of the most impressive museums in the country. With an extensive array of exhibits, the Texas State History Museum encapsulates the history of Texas from prehistoric times to the present. The Museum also houses an IMAX theatre as well as a café and store and frequently hosts traveling exhibits and special features. 

7.  Longhorn Caverns State Park[post_ads_2]

Located just outside Burnet, Longhorn Caverns State Park is home to one of the state's best known caves (caverns). Through the centuries, this natural cavern has at times been home to Comanche Indians, Confederate Soldiers and, most likely, a few outlaws.