Cities have their perks — the lights, the activities, the restaurants, and the almost electric energy that comes from having so many people in one place, just to name a few — but they also have plenty of downsides. Personally, I prefer smaller cities that are too large to be considered towns, but still close-knit enough to have a strong sense of community. These types of cities are the best of both worlds because they allow you to enjoy world-class dining, shopping, and events without being overwhelmed by large crowds, bumper-to-bumper traffic, and a general sense of chaos. One such place is Georgetown, Texas. With a population of roughly 95,000, it’s one of the best up-and-coming cities in Texas and ranks among the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. (but don’t worry — it’s not going to be like Houston or Austin any time soon). There’s so much to do here, yet it still has that small-town charm where locals know each other by name.

Located just 30 miles north of Austin, Georgetown is perfect for those looking to experience the splendor of the Texas Hill Country without getting caught in the rat race. Its downtown district is full of buildings (many of which boast stunning Victorian-style architecture) listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the majestic Williamson County Courthouse. Georgetown is also home to the oldest university in Texas, Southwestern University.

Whether you’re just visiting or planning on making a move to the city, you’ll be neither bored nor overstimulated. From popping into locally-owned boutiques to turning out all the charming bistros and coffee shops to attending seasonal events, Georgetown is ideal for folks who enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

Make sure to keep an eye out for the city's signature red poppies while you're strolling through town. If you happen to visit in the spring, the annual Red Poppy Festival takes place every year in April and it is not to be missed.

If you're interested in learning more about Georgetown, the city's tourism website, Visit Georgetown, is a wealth of information. You can also head over to the Visit Georgetown Facebook page.

Have you ever been to Georgetown? If so, do you think it's one of the best up-and-coming cities in Texas? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Check out our previous article to see why Georgetown is one of the best Christmas towns in Texas. If you need a place to stay in town, the Sheraton Austin Georgetown Hotel & Convention Center gets excellent reviews.