This One Small Texas Town Has More Outdoor Attractions Than Any Other Place In The State
By Katie Lawrence|Published May 30, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
You can always find something to do outdoors in a big city. Whether it’s a city park or town lake, there’ll never be any shortage of summertime fun to be had in, say, Houston or Austin. The only drawback is that these places just aren’t relaxing. This time of year is about experiencing the peace and serenity that come along with spending time in nature, and those feelings just don’t exist in the middle of a crowded metropolis.
But what if there was a small town with the same amount of outdoor recreation as a big city? Marble Falls, a town of about 6,000 on the outskirts of Austin, is one such place in Texas. With more than five separate attractions within the city limits and plenty more in surrounding areas, this little gem will be your new favorite summer destination. Here are a few of the best things to do there:
Central Texas is called the "Wine Country" for a reason, and Marble Falls truly has one of the best. Flat Creek Estate sits on over 80 acres, 20 of which belong to the vineyard alone. Tour the grounds, taste fine wines from a 10,000-case display, and even play a round of disc golf with the most beautiful surroundings imaginable (yes, wine is included).
After you've explored the estate, dine at the bistro while marveling at panoramic views of the endless rows of grapevines. Menu options include wood-fired pizza, burgers, premium steaks, decadent desserts, and even brunch on weekends. Reservations are required and can be made here.
No feeling quite compares to enjoying a glass of vino with the people you love most - especially when it involves a Texas sunset and beautiful venue with nothing but lush greenery as far as the eye can see.
Lake Marble Falls is a 611-acre reservoir on the Colorado River, so if you've ever been to Mount Bonnell in Austin, you know how breathtaking the water is. Pack a picnic lunch, secure a shady spot, and prepare for a fun-filled day in the sun.
If you're into water sports, this is an ideal place for them. Whether you have a fast and furious jet ski, a relaxing kayak, a motorboat, or anything in between, the whole family is sure to have a blast.
We're all about eating homegrown and local here in Texas, so there are plenty of pick-your-own farms scattered throughout the state. Sweet Berry Farms is one of those, and it provides delicious fruit straight to your table whether it be spring, summer, or fall.
Strawberry and blackberry picking draws to a close this Saturday, but if you can't make it, never fear! The farm will reopen in September with a pumpkin patch that rivals many in the area. There are also plenty of fun activities for the kiddos including a bounce zone, train ride, pottery, and sand art.
If you have a dirt bike, ATV/UTV, or full-sized Jeep, Hidden Falls Adventure Park is a gem you can't waste another second not visiting. Do tricks on the motocross course, drive through rapids and up steep cliff sides, and pose your baby just right for a sick photo-op.
There are also firing ranges and designated areas for skeet shooting, so even if you don't ride, you can still more than enjoy yourself. More information about pricing and camping can be found here.
And we've saved the best for last. Balcones Canyonlands is an absolutely magical natural area that resembles an African savannah moreso than the Texas Hill Country. One of the most ecologically diverse places in the entire world, over 245 species of bird and 37 of dragonfly alone occupy the land for much of the year - so you can only imagine how much wildlife truly occupies this area.
Hike over seven miles of trails with difficulty levels ranging from extremely easy to rigorous, take in panoramic views of the park at scenic overlooks, and step inside bird blinds to get a better look at some of the rarest, most unique types. You'll leave here with a whole new appreciation for nature and all who inhabit it.
24518 Farm to Market Road 1431, Marble Falls, TX 78654
Have you ever been to Marble Falls? What’s your favorite thing to do there?
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