Posted in Texas
August 05, 2015
Here Are The 10 Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In Texas
If you just stick to the big cities in Texas, you will miss out on the true heart and soul of what our beautiful state is all about. While Texas has hundreds of small towns scattered throughout the state, these are definitely some of the most notable and historic small towns in Texas that you simply can’t pass up.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
With a population of just under 11,000, Fredericksburg is one of the most historic German towns in the state. While here, enjoy shopping and dining in downtown Fredericksburg, pick your own peaches at Marburger Orchard, pick beautiful flowers at the country's largest wildflower farm, Wildseed Farms, or visit one of the historic museums in the area such as the National Museum of the Pacific War. There are also many gorgeous wonderful wineries in the Fredericksburg area that you definitely can't miss!
Most well-known for the numerous sightings of mysterious lights reported in this small desert town of around 2,000 people, Marfa is also an off-the-beaten-path destination for Minimalist art attractions, and many artists have flocked here to enjoy the art culture. While here, enjoy the charming town square, check out the various art exhibits, and definitely don't miss the Marfa Lights!
When talking about small towns, you can't possibly leave out Luckenbach. Listed with a population of only 25 back in 2010, I couldn't find a more recent population figure, though by visiting the town you can see for yourself how small it really is. There's a corner store, a post office, and a dance hall still standing, and you can buy plenty of souvenirs in the gift shop adorned with the town's motto "Everybody's somebody in Luckenbach." The town was memorialized by the song we all know and love, "Luckenbach, Texas" by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. Today, you can enjoy live music events each weekend, including occasional performances by local and regional country singers. Most of the time, though, locals and visitors alike gather around for informal performances and sing-alongs (which can be just as entertaining.)
With a population of 3,260 as of the 2010 census, this is the birthplace of the famous country singer George Strait. It's best known for its annual event that attracts thousands of Texans, the Poteet Strawberry Festival held one weekend each April.
This little gem of a small town is located northwest of Fort Worth in the Panhandle. The population was only 421 at the 2010 census, so it's a great place to escape the chaos of the city. Turkey is home to the famous swing musician Bob Wills, and hosts a celebration in his honor each spring that includes a parade, a cook-off, a fiddling competition, dancing, and more. While you're here, you won't want to miss the charming little general store Lacy Dry Goods, which has been open since 1927.
This quaint town right near New Braunfels is home to Texas' oldest dance hall, made famous by the movie "Michael." Definitely check out the antique shops in the town square, and if you're hungry, the Gristmill is a wonderful place to eat, both for the incredible food and the unbeatable views of the Guadalupe River.
Best known for its German heritage, this small town of less than 3,000 is home to the Texas Polka Music Museum. When visiting, you can't miss Frank's for a heavenly slice of chocolate or cherry pie, and also the Potter Country Store for fresh-picked pecans!
If you want to learn more about the Czech heritage, this is a great place to do just that. You'll find this tiny town about 20 miles north of Waco, and while you're there, stop in at one of the Czech bakeries for some delicious treats. If you time it right, you can attend the annual WestFest, a festival celebrating the Czech heritage and culture.
Arguably the most famous ghost town in Texas, it is home to a handful of residents looking for a quieter, slower-paced way of life. There's a few buildings standing in the town, including remnants of old dwellings, as well as several small souvenir shops and restaurants open for business. On the first Saturday of November, you can attend the annual chili cookoff, where thousands of Texans meet to prove their chili is indeed the best in the state.
This is a small town in East Texas of a couple thousand people, and is one of the most haunted towns in the state. The city has over 70 historic landmarks, including museums and well-preserved Greek-revival homes. Make sure to check out some of the antique and specialty shops, and stay in one of the haunted hotels (if you dare).
What’s your favorite small town in Texas? Which ones would you add to the list?
