Bastrop, Texas is only about 33 miles outside of Austin's city limits, but this small town will make you feel worlds away from it all. When you arrive, ask any local where you should grab a bite and they will inevitably lead you to this mouthwatering restaurant. Maxine's on Main is full of southern home-cooking, charming characters, and tantalizing desserts. Take day trip to Maxine's and treat your taste buds.
This restaurant is home-cooking heaven.
Maxine's is, hands down, the best place for breakfast in Bastrop.
advertisement
Bacon + eggs + potatoes = breakfast bliss
You've got to try the meatloaf.
Their fried catfish sandwiches will reel you in.
But the pies really steal the show.
And cakes!
advertisement
Desserts everywhere.
Maxine's Cafe and Bakery is located in Bastrop Texas at 905 Main St. Stop by for some of the best home-cooked fare you've ever had.
Most Americans are very disconnected from the source of the food they eat. In Austin, we enjoy beef from cattle ranches and seafood from commercial fishermen that we never come into contact with. There are small towns near Austin, TX that have lots of charm. However, Fulton is a little Texas fishing town about 188 miles directly south of Austin that is such a treat to see. Visitors to this pretty place can see fishing firsthand and even do a little of their own. It's certainly one of the best fishing towns in Texas.
advertisement
The bustling Fulton Harbor supports commercial fishermen.
This is a working pier, where you'll see fishermen unloading shrimp, oysters, and fish.
Fishing is a mainstay in this town's economy.
This shrimp boat not only supports the economy, it brings back delicious treasures from the sea for all to enjoy.
The harbor is a quiet, peaceful place at sunset.
There's plenty for visitors to see and do here, too.
Thousands of people visit Fulton every year for the great seafood, shopping, dining, and scenery.
advertisement
Do some fishing of your own.
Fish off the dock, or hire a charter for the big sea catches.
Stay at Lighthouse Inn at Aransas Bay.
This beautiful hotel sits right on the water, and you can't beat the sunrise on a Saturday morning.
Visit Rockport Bakery.
This adorable little shop has some of the best apple fritters you've ever tasted.
Enjoy a meal at The Old Fulton Seafood Cafe & Deli.
advertisement
This quaint little restaurant has delicious seafood and also sandwiches and other entrees.
Stop by The Fulton Mansion State Historic Site.
This mansion was built in 1877 by George Ware Fulton, The home has indoor plumbing, gas lighting, and flush toilets - very modern conveniences for that time period.
This little fishing town is definitely worth the drive - go for a day trip, or stay overnight. Have you visited Fulton? Do you agree it's one of the best fishing towns in Texas? What's your favorite thing to do there? Let us know in the comments.
Hustle and bustle can be nice every once in a while, but sometimes we all need a break. As one of the fastest-growing cities in America, Austin can become overwhelming at times. Thankfully, there are still some slow-paced small towns near the capital city that know how to keep life simple. These small towns around Austin, Texas, are loaded with charm, gorgeous scenery, and friendly faces.
advertisement
1. Liberty Hill
With a population of 1,608 people, it's easy to know your neighbor in Liberty Hill. This small town sits 35 miles north of downtown Austin.
2. Dripping Springs
Right in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Dripping Springs has some amazing views. This area is full of picturesque wineries and quaint fields.
3. Elgin
Home of the annual Hogeye Festival, Elgin, Texas, is bursting with charm. Several blockbusters have filmed in this small town including Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Alamo, and Transformers 4.
4. Buda
Head south of Austin for affordable housing and small-town charm. This Austin suburb has its quirky traditions such as the annual wiener dog races.
advertisement
5. Hutto
Beginning as a small railroad stop in 1876, Hutto has blossomed into a charming city full of Texas flair. While you're there, definitely dine at The Texan Cafe, a beloved local diner that's known for having the best pies in Texas!
6. Johnson City
This friendly city is famous for being President Lyndon B. Johnson's childhood home. Founded by LBJ's uncle, James Polk Johnson, this tiny town is bustling with history. Visitors can still visit LBJ's childhood home in Johnson City to this day.
7. Driftwood
North of San Marcos sits a town that seems frozen in time. People flock to Driftwood, Texas, for some epic barbecue, delicious wine, and quiet relaxation.
8. Florence
Drive 40 miles north of Austin and you'll come across this little slice of paradise. Florence has been around since the early 1850s. To this day, there's no view more stunning than a Florence, Texas sunset.
advertisement
9. Marble Falls
Home of Sweet Berry Farm, Marble Falls, Texas, attracts visitors from all over the Austin area.
10. Wimberley
Only about 2,626 people live in Wimberley, but thousands of people visit this Texas Hill Country wonderland every year. Its quaint surroundings and down-home feel will make you never want to leave.
11. Fredericksburg
When the holidays roll around, there's no better place to frolic than in Fredericksburg. This town began as a small German city named after Prince Frederick of Prussia. Today, it's full of delicious candy shops, boutiques, and museums.
12. Taylor
Taylor, Texas, was founded in 1876 as a stop for the International–Great Northern Railroad. It's historically been a huge shopping post for grain, cotton, and cattle. Today, it's known as one of the best BBQ destinations in TX!
advertisement
Have you visited any of these small towns near Austin? Did we miss any of your favorite little locales in this part of the Lone Star State? Share them with us in the comments below -- we are always excited to explore new Texas towns! Tiny towns have some of the best diners, too. If you're ever in Elgin, be sure to swing by this small-town restaurant.