Texas is nearly 900 miles across, yet only a handful of cities are responsible for the majority of our population. As a result, many people are led to believe the rest of the state is nothing but wide-open prairies (and maybe a few tumbleweeds). That couldn’t be further from the truth – in between the hustle and bustle of big city life lies a plethora of small towns filled with Southern charm. Hiding everywhere from the mountainous desert out west to the sprawling Hill Country landscape, here are seven of the best small towns for a weekend getaway in Texas.

1. Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg, TX 78624, USA
Flickr/sheffieldb
Perhaps the most well-known small town in Texas, Fredericksburg is famous for its German heritage and plethora of award-winning vineyards. It's also a nature lover's dream, with the iconic Enchanted Rock State Natural Area just outside the city. We aren't the only ones who think Fredericksburg is awesome, either - in fact, Buzzfeed recently named it the coolest small town in Texas!
2. Boerne
Boerne, TX 78006, USA
Wikimedia Commons/Jonmallard
Another charming Hill Country town, Boerne is less than 15 miles from San Antonio - but it feels like an entirely different world. Instead of the hustle and bustle of a big city, Boerne is full of the small-town Texas charm we all know and love. From locally-owned shops and restaurants to an abundance of outdoor activities to not one, but two amazing caverns, there's something for everyone here. Oh, and we'd be remiss not to mention that House Beautiful ranked Boerne among the 25 happiest small towns in the U.S. back in 2019.
3. Jefferson
Jefferson, TX 75657, USA
Flickr/Nicolas Henderson
With tons of local history (and a few hauntings for good measure), Jefferson is a totally bucket-list-worthy small town. This itty bitty city of a few thousand boasts more than 70 historic landmarks, plus tons of antique shops where you're bound to find some cool treasures. Jefferson is also home to several of the most haunted buildings in the state, including two hotels...would you dare to spend the night?

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4. Luckenbach
Luckenbach, TX 78624, USA
Flickr/Gino
Next up is Luckenbach, which happens to be the very smallest town in Texas. The population may not be the largest, but they're all part of the family who runs the only building in town: a general store, post office, and dance hall rolled into one. Come hang out, jam out to live music, and have a great time in the town where "everybody's somebody." If you're lucky, you just might run into Willie Nelson!
5. Alpine
Alpine, TX, USA
Flickr/Luis Tamayo
A charming mountain town tucked away in the west Texas desert, Alpine is the definition of a hidden gem. It might take a while to get to, but you'll definitely want to stay awhile once you're here. There's so much to see, from delicious restaurants to historic hotels and museums to - of course - the breathtaking scenery all around.
6. Marble Falls
Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
Flickr/jaygannett
Marble Falls is such an underrated Hill Country destination. This small town is home to about 6,000 people and has a little bit of everything - especially when it comes to the outdoors. You can explore sprawling canyonlands, enjoy water recreation on the lake, and have a blast at an adventure park. Afterward, hit up the iconic Blue Bonnet Cafe for a slice of their world-famous pie (and maybe a few for the road, too).
7. Granbury
Granbury, TX, USA
Flickr/Dana Smith
Recently named the #1 historic small town in the U.S. by USA Today, Granbury is a must-visit. The town square is charming as can be, and there are over 40 Texas Historic Landmarks scattered all over town. Other activities include an old-fashioned trolley ride, a park with a white sandy beach, and the longest continuously operated drive-in theatre in Texas. The whole family is sure to have a blast!

How many of these small Texas towns have you visited? Did we leave off your favorite? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section, and check out a previous article of ours to learn more about Marble Falls. If you’re planning to hop in your car to travel to any of these places, make your fun weekend trip in Texas that much better by using our ultimate road trip packing list. It will make planning your next small town texas getaway a breeze!

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More to Explore

Best Towns For A Weekend Getaway

Tori Jane | September 18, 2022

What are the best towns for a weekend getaway in Texas?  

People don’t tend to think about Texas as a great getaway destination, but they should – after all, there are literally hundreds (and hundreds) of small towns in Texas, many of which are ideal for a short escape. Some of our favorite towns for a weekend getaway in Texas include:

  • South Padre Island is a stunning resort town that’ll make you forget you’re in Texas at all
  • Port Aransas is a beach town where you can check out ocean views from high-up towers and even spot dolphins from time to time.  

 

Where are the best towns in Texas to retire?  

Believe it or not, Texas is a great state to retire in. There are many excellent small towns in Texas that work perfectly for retirees:

  • Beaumont boasts a population of almost 400,000 and has access to some of the best fishing in Texas.
  • Corpus Christi is another excellent option thanks to its plethora of fun things to do
  • Killeen is also a place we love

 

What are some cute small towns in Texas for a day trip? 

You don't have to travel far to find a cute small town in Texas. Some favorites include:

  • Dripping Springs is one of our favorite cute small towns in Texas; it’s very quaint, and it’s close to one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in Texas: the Hamilton Pool Preserve.
  • Marfa is another excellent day trip destination in Texas thanks to its artsy, quirky nature
  • We can’t get enough of places like Luckenbach, which is adorable (and outrageously tiny) and well-known for its place in the country music scene.
  • Ennis is also absolutely gorgeous (on top of being cute), and if you’re seeking Texas bluebonnets, you’re in luck: this region is home to the Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas, which measures 40 miles.  

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