1. Introduction: Experience the charming town of Georgetown, Texas, just 30 miles north of Austin, offering a delightful mix of natural attractions, local eateries, and a vibrant wine scene.
2. Top Activities: Explore the best activities in Georgetown, including stunning parks, local restaurants, and cultural sites.
3. Relaxation and Fun: Enjoy a range of options for relaxation and entertainment during your visit.
Situated about 30 miles north of Austin, Georgetown is a low-key getaway with a surprisingly diverse mix of things to do. The quaint downtown square is anchored by the Williamson County Courthouse and surrounded by restaurants, art galleries, shops, and wine tasting rooms. Beyond downtown, you’ll find a wealth of natural attractions, antique shops, and wineries. If you enjoy visiting small towns without sacrificing big-city amenities, consider staying at the luxurious 211-room Sheraton Georgetown. The hotel borders Rivery Park and is only two miles from the downtown square. For more of a bed-and-breakfast experience, check out the Sweet Lemon Inn, which is located within walking distance of the square. Once you’re checked in and settled, it’s time to explore Georgetown.
1. Jog Your Stress Away at San Gabriel Park
San Gabriel Park is located near the point where the north and south forks of the San Gabriel River converge to form a single waterway. The 1.6-mile hike-and-bike trail meanders along the river, and some segments are shaded by 200-year-old oak trees. For long-distance runners, the route also connects with several miles of trails at Rivery Park. It’s common to find tall white birds known as great egrets hunting for fish in the shallows of the San Gabriel River. You may also spot a few humans fishing along the banks. You can always find a shady spot to sit in the park in the spring and summer because grapevine arbors are installed as “roofs” over several picnic benches. The hardy muscadine vines are thick enough to block much of the sunlight, providing an exotic backdrop for photos.
2. Enjoy a Locally Sourced Brunch at Blue Corn Harvest
After working up a healthy appetite, head to Blue Corn Harvest for breakfast or brunch. The casual eatery enthusiastically supports local farmers and vendors. Sources for the restaurant’s meat and produce include Tecolote Organic Farm, Texas Meat Purveyors, and Brazos Valley Cheese. The green pork and eggs will satisfy even the hungriest hiker. It’s essentially a big bowl of slow-roasted pork, eggs, Hatch chile peppers, tomatillos, and cheese. It’s mildly spicy and seriously delicious. Those with moderate appetites and a sweet tooth will adore the harvest blue mini-pancakes and eggs, accompanied by potatoes and bacon. The $5 bloody mary bar is also a local favorite on Sunday mornings, and parties of one or two can often get served faster by sitting at the bar.
3. Take a Dip at Blue Hole
A beautiful swimming hole on the south fork of the San Gabriel River, Blue Hole is bordered by limestone bluffs, creating a scenic backdrop. The water is generally cool and slow-moving, and there’s even a small waterfall formed by a low manmade wall across the river. When swimming, keep your eyes at water level, and you’ll see turtle heads popping up from time to time. If swimming with kids, be cautious as the water depth can change abruptly, particularly near the middle of the waterway. Test the bottom carefully before letting your kids enter. The bottom is fairly firm in most places, but it can be extremely muddy in others. Admission is free, with a restroom onsite. Parking is available; there’s a free lot near the entrance and a garage about 30 yards away that is free only on weekends.
4. Get Inspired at the Georgetown Art Center
Built out of a historic fire station, the Georgetown Art Center showcases rotating exhibitions featuring everything from ceramics to paintings by emerging artists. Most artwork is for sale, catering to almost any budget. The center also serves as a community hub, offering classes, artist receptions, guest lectures, and student contests. For kids who quietly observe and appreciate the art, there’s a surprise waiting right next door: a splash pad. Built by the City of Georgetown, the splash pad is completely free and open to the public, allowing visitors to turn it on themselves.
5. Learn History at the Williamson County Courthouse
Led by knowledgeable guides from the nearby Williamson Museum, free tours of the Williamson County Courthouse are offered on Fridays and Saturdays. You’ll learn about the architectural details of the striking Greek Revival building and highlights of the legal history that has unfolded within its halls. Historical markers around the courthouse offer glimpses into the county’s early history, notably discussing the Ku Klux Klan trials held there in the 1920s, viewed by many as the first successful prosecutions of the KKK.
6. Work Out the Kinks at Spa Luxe
If you’re looking to unwind further, consider an 80-minute full-body massage at Spa Luxe. Therapists, like Marissa, know how to ask about your pressure preferences and adjust accordingly. This balance is crucial for a satisfying massage experience. During your session, enjoy collagen booties that soften your feet along with a touch of aromatherapy. At times, the therapist holds herbs beneath your nose, encouraging deep breaths for relaxation.
7. Grab a Light Lunch at Sweet Lemon Kitchen
Built out of a cozy old home, Sweet Lemon Kitchen is quickly becoming one of the most popular breakfast and lunch spots in Georgetown. The Better Half, which is half a sandwich and soup or salad, is just the right size for a satisfying lunch. A standout option is the chimichurri steak panini, which offers a delicious mix of sweet and spicy flavors along with the crunch of toasted Italian bread. Fresh breakfast choices include house-made scones, croissants, breakfast sandwiches, and Greek yogurt parfaits with berries and lemon curd. The restaurant strives to use only regional suppliers, ensuring freshness and quality.
8. Sample Local Wines at Grape Creek Vineyards’ Tasting Room
At Grape Creek Vineyards, tastings are relaxed and inviting. Simply approach the bar, share your wine preferences, and begin sampling. The standard tasting includes six different wines, among them the award-winning Viognier, which displays a hint of sweetness alongside flavors of peach and apricot. Grape Creek’s Syrah and Syrah/Cabernet blends have also garnered prestigious awards. Other notable wines include the Merlot, with hints of vanilla and cinnamon, and the Rose of Malbec, a dry rosé with a fruity and floral aroma.
9. Take a Short Trip to Mexico via El Monumento Restaurant
Featuring four dining areas separated by an interior courtyard and floor-to-ceiling windows, El Monumento delights the senses even before the food arrives. The Mexican-style architecture and landscaping create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. An outdoor balcony overlooks the Blue Hole lagoon. Although the menu may seem brief, the quality is exceptional. The chile relleno is a crowd favorite, filled with mushrooms, almonds, spinach, and a mildly spicy jitomate sauce. Enchilada aficionados rave about the San Gabriel Special, a combination of beef, chicken, and cheese enchiladas. Don’t forget to leave room for the tres leches cake—a sweet and gooey delight.
10. Dine in Style at Brix and Ale
If you’re craving refined American comfort food, Brix and Ale is the place to be. Start with the crispy prosciutto flatbread, complete with smoked almonds, truffle honey, grapes, and goat cheese. The dish is light yet tasty enough to tantalize your taste buds for the delicious offerings ahead. One of the chef’s specialties, the Grilled Faroe Island Salmon, is served with a colorful Mediterranean quinoa salad, featuring quinoa, mint, green onion, tomato, cucumber, and honey. Beef lovers will not be disappointed with the Grilled Fillet of Beef, served with a homemade steak sauce and a twice-baked potato soufflé. End your meal with their amazing Lemon Ricotta Doughnuts, served with caramel and powdered sugar.
11. Listen to Country Music at Mesquite Creek Outfitters
While Georgetown may not be known for its nightlife, Mesquite Creek Outfitters is a vibrant spot on Friday and Saturday nights. This unique venue offers outdoor clothing, beer, pizza, and country music, creating a perfect Texas experience. While savoring one of the 16 craft beers on tap, you can shop for a new fishing shirt or cap. The music usually starts around 8 p.m. featuring local and regional country bands, and importantly, there’s never a cover charge. Outdoor tables are often full, making it a great place to relax, and some visitors even bring their dogs for the evening!
12. Get Deep at Inner Space Cavern
When temperatures soar above 100 degrees, there’s no better place to be than underground, where it’s always cool. Inner Space Cavern was discovered during the construction of Interstate 35 in the 1960s, making it a fascinating spot to entertain kids for an hour without much planning. Just arrive and take the tour. The hike is easy, and the sights inside—huge chambers and delicate rock formations—will amaze you.
