The Hills TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near The Hills, Texas.
1. Texas State Capitol
HISTORIC LEGISLATIVE BUILDING
The Texas State Capitol is an impressive historic landmark that serves as the seat of government for the state of Texas. Its distinctive pink granite exterior and Renaissance Revival architecture make it one of the most recognized buildings in Texas. Visitors can take free guided tours of the building and grounds to learn about Texas history and government.
2. Mount Bonnell
SCENIC OVERLOOK POINT
Mount Bonnell offers one of the best panoramic views of Austin and the surrounding Hill Country landscape. Visitors climb 102 steps to reach the summit, which stands at 775 feet above sea level. The site has been a popular tourist destination since the 1850s and provides spectacular sunset views over Lake Austin.
3. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
MASSIVE PINK GRANITE DOME
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area features a massive pink granite dome that has attracted people for hundreds of years with its natural beauty and rock formations. Visitors can hike to the summit, rock climb, or backpack through the park's diverse terrain. The area is also designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it perfect for stargazing and experiencing Hill Country views.
4. Gruene Hall
OLDEST DANCE HALL
Gruene Hall is the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas, established in 1878 and maintaining much of its original design. The venue hosts live music every day of the week, providing an authentic Texas cultural experience. Its historic atmosphere makes visitors feel like they've stepped back in time when walking through the doors.
5. Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar
HISTORIC RIVERSIDE DINING
Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar is located next to Gruene Hall in the historic town of Gruene. The restaurant is set in a converted cotton gin overlooking the Guadalupe River, offering Texas-style cuisine in a rustic setting. Visitors enjoy the multi-level dining areas with scenic views and the restaurant's connection to the area's rich history.
6. Hamilton Pool Preserve
NATURAL SWIMMING HOLE
Hamilton Pool Preserve features a stunning natural pool created when the dome of an underground river collapsed thousands of years ago. A 50-foot waterfall cascades into the jade-green pool, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush vegetation. Visitors must make reservations in advance to enjoy swimming in this unique natural formation.
7. Fredericksburg Historic District
GERMAN HERITAGE TOWN
Fredericksburg Historic District showcases the town's rich German heritage through well-preserved architecture and cultural attractions. The town's Main Street features over 150 shops, galleries, and restaurants housed in historic buildings dating back to the mid-1800s. Visitors can explore the charming town center with its mix of German traditions and Texas hospitality.
8. Wimberley Square
ARTSY SHOPPING DISTRICT
Wimberley Square is the heart of this artistic Hill Country community, offering a collection of unique boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. The charming town center features locally-owned businesses selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to Texas-made food products. Visitors can spend hours browsing the eclectic mix of stores while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of this creative community.
9. Pedernales Falls State Park
RIVERSIDE NATURAL WONDER
Pedernales Falls State Park features dramatic limestone formations where the Pedernales River cascades over layered steps creating a series of falls and pools. The park offers miles of hiking trails, swimming areas, and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore over 5,000 acres of Hill Country landscape with activities ranging from mountain biking to equestrian trails.
10. LBJ Ranch
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIC SITE
LBJ Ranch, also known as the Texas White House, was the home of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson. Visitors can tour the ranch house, see the presidential aircraft, and learn about rural life in the Texas Hill Country during the mid-20th century. The working ranch continues to operate as it did during Johnson's time, with cattle grazing in the pastures.
11. Salt Lick BBQ
LEGENDARY TEXAS BARBECUE
Salt Lick BBQ is an iconic Texas barbecue restaurant known for its open pit cooking method and family recipes dating back generations. The sprawling restaurant set on a beautiful ranch property serves brisket, ribs, and sausage that have made it a destination for barbecue enthusiasts from around the world. The BYOB policy and family-style seating create a communal dining experience that captures the spirit of Texas hospitality.
12. Natural Bridge Caverns
UNDERGROUND CAVE SYSTEM
Natural Bridge Caverns is Texas' largest show cave system featuring spectacular limestone formations that have developed over thousands of years. Guided tours take visitors through chambers filled with stalagmites, stalactites, and other dramatic cave features. The attraction also offers above-ground activities including a zip line, maze challenge, and gem mining experience.
13. Blue Bonnet Cafe
CLASSIC AMERICAN DINER
Blue Bonnet Cafe is a beloved Hill Country institution that has been serving homestyle meals since 1929. The restaurant is famous for its award-winning pies and hearty breakfast served all day. Locals and tourists alike flock to this classic diner for its authentic atmosphere and consistent quality that has earned it recognition in numerous Texas travel publications.
14. Jester King Brewery
FARMHOUSE CRAFT BREWERY
Jester King Brewery is an authentic farmhouse brewery set on 165 acres of picturesque Hill Country land. The brewery specializes in wild fermented ales using local ingredients and traditional brewing methods. Visitors can tour the facility, sample unique craft beers, and enjoy wood-fired pizza while taking in the scenic rural setting.
15. Jacob's Well Natural Area
ARTESIAN SPRING SWIMMING HOLE
Jacob's Well Natural Area features an artesian spring that creates a stunning natural swimming hole with crystal-clear water. The main attraction is a 12-foot wide vertical underwater shaft that descends 120 feet into one of the longest underwater cave systems in Texas. Swimming reservations are required during peak season for this popular spot that serves as the headwaters of Cypress Creek.