Burnet, Texas, known as the “Bluebonnet Capital of Texas,” is a Hill Country gem just under an hour from Austin. With scenic lakes, limestone caverns, charming shops, live music, and more, there’s something for every traveler seeking Texas charm and adventure. Here are eight standout experiences you won’t want to miss!
1. Explore State Parks
Burnet County is home to some of the most breathtaking state parks in Texas. Begin at Longhorn Cavern State Park, an underground wonder formed over millennia. Tour the cavern’s winding passages, learn its history as a speakeasy, and (if you’re daring) take their Wild Cave Tour. Next, spend a day at Inks Lake State Park, famous for its cliff jumping at the scenic Devil’s Waterhole. It offers swimming, boating, hiking, fishing, and camping amid a serene hill country backdrop.
For those looking to explore beyond Burnet, the Texas Hill Country offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Just a short drive away, you’ll find some of Texas’s most iconic natural landmarks. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a massive pink granite dome estimated to be over a billion years old, is a must-see. Visitors come here for hiking, rock climbing, camping, and exceptional stargazing.
In other surrounding counties, you can discover even more state parks, each with its unique charm:
- Colorado Bend State Park is home to Gorman Falls, a beautiful 70-foot spring-fed waterfall, along with miles of trails for hiking and biking, and opportunities for caving and fishing.
- Pedernales Falls State Park showcases the stunning multi-tiered cascades of the Pedernales River as it flows over limestone. This park is perfect for hiking, swimming, tubing, and birdwatching.
2. Free Summer Concerts on the Downtown Square
Get ready for some summer fun in Burnet! Every year, the Burnet Community Coalition hosts its amazing free summer concert series in the historic downtown square.
You can enjoy live music, browse local shops, grab a bite from delicious food trucks, challenge your friends to a game of cornhole, and even join in a street dance!
3. Lakes for Day‑Trips & Water Sports
Burnet sits in the heart of Highland Lakes Country, with reservoir gems like:
Lake Buchanan
The largest lake in the area, making it ideal for jet skiing, sailing, and wakeboarding. It is well-equipped with numerous boat ramps and marinas, including popular spots such as Burnet County Park and Black Rock Park. This lake is a fishing paradise full of camping and lakeside relaxation.
Inks Lake
Inks Lake State Park is a true gem, a 1,200-acre oasis nestled on the Colorado River. This park is your go-to for year-round outdoor fun, thanks to its constant lake level that ensures endless opportunities for recreation.
You can spend your days kayaking, paddle boarding, or enjoying the serene swimming settings. With so much to do, Inks Lake State Park is the perfect escape for anyone looking to connect with nature and enjoy the water.
Lake LBJ, Lake Marble Falls, Lake Travis
Ideal for weekend watersports, boat rides, swimming, fishing, and lakefront picnics, all amidst the beautiful scenery. Lake Marble Falls is also known for its stunning sunsets and serves as a popular stop on the Bluebonnet Trail!
4. Tour the Caverns
Carved over millennia from limestone, Longhorn Cavern is Burnet’s crown attraction. It boasts an 85‐minute guided tour through historic and geological chambers.
Depending on your interest and courage level, the park also offers adventurous Wild Cave Tours, as well as scenic hiking trails and picnic spots above ground.
5. Saturday Farmers Market
Every Saturday, the Burnet Farmers Market and Crafts Market springs to life on the Courthouse Square, with farm-fresh produce, artisan crafts, baked goods, and local food vendors. It’s a lively way to experience local culture, support small producers, and stock up on treats, farm-fresh fruits, and handmade items.
6. Local Wineries
Burnet County sits amid Texas’s burgeoning wine scene. Notable vineyards include Perissos Vineyard & Winery and Torr Na Loch, both of which use 100% Texas-grown fruit. Torr Na Loch offers sweeping lake views alongside tastings, while Perissos provides intimate vineyard tours.
Guided wine tours highlight the terroir, often pairing tastings with cheese and scenic views of the Hill Country.
7. Experience some of the best Hill Country Golf
Nestled in Burnet, Delaware Springs Golf Course is an 18-hole municipal layout renowned for its year-round pristine condition and captivating Hill Country vistas. Beyond the greens, its clubhouse serves up a daily lunch menu that’s a hit with locals.
For golf enthusiasts, several nearby courses await: The Legends Golf Course and Lighthouse Country Club in Kingsland, as well as Hidden Falls Golf Club in Marble Falls, all of which offer enjoyable and challenging rounds amidst similar beautiful scenery.
8. Discover Small Town Charm
Downtown Burnet and nearby Marble Falls are treasure troves of delightful shops, perfect for a leisurely stroll. In Burnet, the Historic Courthouse Square offers a charming mix, from unique vintage homewares to stylish boutiques. Just a short drive away, Downtown Marble Falls expands on that appeal with an even wider array of options. Here, you’ll find captivating art galleries, inviting restaurants, sweet ice cream shops, and even a sophisticated 1920s-inspired speakeasy that exudes timeless elegance.
Step back in time at historic venues like the Fort Croghan Museum, where frontier life comes alive. For entertainment, visit the Globe Theatre in nearby Bertram, offering live music and classic movie showings.
Why Burnet is the Ideal Hill Country Getaway
Burnet’s blend of nature, adventure, and culture makes it a top Hill Country destination. Visitors can discover ancient caverns, paddle through crystal-clear lakes, savor local wines, enjoy live music, and shop in historic districts, all within a short drive from Austin. And trust us, the warm hospitality and Texas charm only enhance the experience.
From underground concert halls and scenic state parks to boutique shopping and lakeside leisure, Burnet, Texas, offers an unforgettable mix of activities. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a day trip, or scouting for a new home, this town has a way of capturing your heart, and maybe even your roots.
Ready to make Burnet home?
At Langley Homes, we blend modern living with the peaceful beauty of Hill Country. Whether you’re searching for local investment or relocating, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way in Burnet and the surrounding areas. Contact Langley Homes today to explore available Burnet homes and begin your journey to Texas living.
