Did you know Georgetown is home to the “Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas” and hosts the vibrant Red Poppy Festival each spring, where thousands of crimson blooms transform the city into a sea of color? Just 30 miles north of Austin, this charming destination offers a perfect blend of small-town Texas hospitality with surprising natural wonders, Victorian architecture, and outdoor adventures along the San Gabriel River.
Getting to Georgetown & Planning Your Journey
Georgetown is conveniently located just 30 miles north of Austin, making it easily accessible for travelers. The closest major airport is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, about 40 minutes away by car. Many visitors combine Georgetown with an Austin trip, but this charming town deserves its own dedicated visit.
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If you’re driving from other Texas cities, Georgetown is accessible via Interstate 35, which runs directly through the city. From Houston, it’s about a 3-hour drive, while Dallas is approximately 2.5 hours away. The town’s proximity to major highways makes it a perfect weekend getaway or road trip stop.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Georgetown experiences hot summers and mild winters, with spring and fall offering the most pleasant temperatures for exploring. The best times to visit are March through May and September through November when temperatures typically range from 65°F to 85°F.
Spring (March-May)
The most magical time to visit Georgetown is during spring when the famous red poppies bloom throughout town. Don’t miss the Red Poppy Festival in late April, which draws thousands of visitors. Spring temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 60°F to 80°F.
Summer (June-August)
Summers can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F. However, this is the perfect time to enjoy Georgetown’s water attractions like Blue Hole and Lake Georgetown. The Music on the Square Summer Concert Series offers free Friday night entertainment.
Fall & Winter (September-February)
Fall brings pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter is mild with occasional cold snaps, but rarely sees snow. The holiday season transforms the historic square with festive decorations and special events like the Christmas Stroll.
Getting Around Georgetown
While Georgetown’s downtown area is very walkable, having a car is recommended to fully explore all the attractions, especially those outside the city center like Inner Space Cavern and Lake Georgetown.
Explore Georgetown at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover all of Georgetown’s hidden gems and nearby attractions.
For those who prefer not to drive, the Sheraton Georgetown Hotel offers free bike rentals for guests, which is perfect for exploring the San Gabriel River Trail. The GoGeo bus service provides limited public transportation within Georgetown, but routes and schedules are restricted.
Local Tip: The Visitor Center on the town square offers free walking tour maps of historic Georgetown. This self-guided tour is a great way to learn about the town’s history while exploring on foot.
Where to Stay in Georgetown
Georgetown offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets, from modern hotels to charming bed and breakfasts.
Hotels & Resorts
The Sheraton Austin Georgetown Hotel is the premier accommodation option, located less than 2 miles from downtown. It features an outdoor pool, onsite restaurant, and free bike rentals. The hotel’s location on the San Gabriel River makes it ideal for both relaxation and adventure.
Other quality options include the Comfort Suites and Hampton Inn & Suites, both offering comfortable rooms and convenient locations near Interstate 35.
Bed & Breakfasts
For a more intimate experience, consider staying at one of Georgetown’s historic bed and breakfasts. The San Gabriel House and Sweet Lemon Inn offer charming accommodations in restored Victorian homes within walking distance of the town square.
These B&Bs provide a more authentic experience of Georgetown’s historic character and typically include homemade breakfast and personalized service.
Find Your Perfect Georgetown Stay
Book your accommodation early, especially during the popular Red Poppy Festival and summer months.
Dining & Local Cuisine in Georgetown
Georgetown’s food scene is surprisingly diverse for a small town, with everything from Texas barbecue to farm-to-table restaurants and international cuisine.
Must-Try Restaurants
Monument Cafe
This retro roadside diner gained fame after being featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” Don’t miss their famous King Ranch Chicken Casserole or the juicy burgers topped with fried jalapeños. Their homemade pies are legendary among locals and visitors alike.
Blue Corn Harvest
Specializing in Southwestern cuisine with ingredients sourced from local farms, Blue Corn Harvest offers dishes like chicken rellenos and artichoke spinach bacon gratin. Their margarita flight is perfect for sampling different flavors.
Sweet Lemon Kitchen
Located in a charming downtown cottage, this cafe is ideal for breakfast or lunch. Try their chicken salad on a flaky croissant or their fresh-baked pastries. The outdoor picnic tables make it perfect for a sunny day meal.
Local Beverages
Georgetown has embraced the craft beverage movement with several local options:
- Rentsch Brewery offers locally crafted beers in their taproom with a beautiful outdoor patio shaded by oak trees.
- Georgetown Winery, Williamson County’s first and most award-winning winery, offers tastings of wines made with Texas-grown grapes.
- Grape Creek Winery and Barons Creek Vineyards have tasting rooms on the downtown square, allowing you to sample Hill Country wines without leaving Georgetown.
Top Attractions & Things to Do in Georgetown Texas
From natural wonders to historic sites, Georgetown offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors of all interests.
Natural Attractions
Blue Hole Park
Just a few blocks from downtown, Blue Hole is a scenic lagoon on the South San Gabriel River. With limestone bluffs and clear water, it’s the perfect spot for swimming on hot summer days. The park connects to the South San Gabriel River Trail for additional exploration.
Inner Space Cavern
One of the best-preserved caves in Texas, Inner Space Cavern offers tours ranging from the family-friendly Adventure Tour to the more challenging Wild Cave Tour. The cave maintains a constant 72°F year-round, making it a perfect escape from summer heat.
Explore this underground wonder with a guided tour!
Historic Downtown
Known as the “Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas,” Georgetown’s downtown features a stunning collection of Victorian-era architecture surrounding the Williamson County Courthouse. The entire district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Georgetown Square
Spend time exploring the boutiques, wineries, and restaurants housed in beautifully preserved historic buildings. The Visitor Center offers self-guided walking tour maps highlighting architectural points of interest and local history.
Williamson Museum
Located in an old bank building on the square, this free museum features rotating exhibits about local history and culture. Don’t miss their First Friday ghost tours for a spooky look at Georgetown’s past.
Georgetown Palace Theatre
This 1925 Art Deco theater is the only building of its style on the square. Today it hosts a variety of musicals, plays, and performances throughout the year. Check their calendar for upcoming shows during your visit.
Outdoor Adventures in Georgetown
With the San Gabriel River flowing through town and Lake Georgetown nearby, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in this Central Texas destination.
Water Activities
- Lake Georgetown – This 1,200-acre reservoir offers swimming, fishing, boating, and paddling opportunities. Russell Park has a beach area perfect for families.
- Blue Hole – This natural swimming hole on the South San Gabriel River is ideal for cooling off during hot summer days.
- San Gabriel River Paddling Trail – Bring your kayak or paddleboard to explore the river. Several access points are available throughout Georgetown.
Hiking & Biking
Georgetown boasts nearly 9 miles of multi-use trails along the San Gabriel River, perfect for walking, running, or cycling. The Sheraton Georgetown Hotel offers free bike rentals for guests, making it easy to explore without a car.
Popular Trails
- Crockett Garden Falls Trail – This 3.7-mile moderate hike leads to a unique spring-fed waterfall that drips over limestone formations.
- San Gabriel River Trail – Both the north and south banks of the river feature scenic trails connecting various parks.
- Goodwater Loop – This challenging 26-mile trail circles Lake Georgetown and is popular with mountain bikers and hikers looking for a full-day adventure.
Garey Park
This 525-acre former ranch offers over 7 miles of hiking and equestrian trails, a dog park, and a play ranch for children. The park’s location on the South San Gabriel River provides beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Discover Georgetown’s natural beauty with guided outdoor adventures!
Seasonal Events & Festivals
Georgetown hosts several annual events that showcase the town’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Planning your visit around these festivals can enhance your experience.
Red Poppy Festival (April)
Georgetown’s signature event celebrates the town’s designation as the “Red Poppy Capital of Texas.” This three-day festival features live music, a parade, car show, artisan market, and family activities. The red poppies typically bloom for about a month between March and April.
Music on the Square (Summer)
Every Friday night during summer, the historic courthouse lawn hosts free concerts featuring local musicians playing country, pop, jazz, and other genres. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy music under the stars from June through August.
Georgetown Christmas Stroll (December)
The historic downtown transforms into a holiday wonderland with festive decorations, a Christmas market, visits with Santa, and a parade. The lighting of the square is a magical moment that kicks off the holiday season in Georgetown.
Seasonal Attractions
Sweet Eats Fruit Farm offers seasonal activities throughout the year:
- Spring – Easter egg hunts and strawberry picking (March-April)
- Summer – Sunflower Festival and peach picking (May-July)
- Fall – Pumpkin patch, corn maze, and fall festival activities (September-November)
Shopping in Georgetown
Georgetown’s historic downtown is a shopper’s paradise, with unique boutiques, antique stores, and specialty shops housed in beautifully preserved Victorian buildings.
Downtown Shopping
The blocks surrounding the courthouse are filled with one-of-a-kind stores offering everything from fashion and home decor to specialty foods and gifts. Some highlights include:
Boutiques & Fashion
- Blushing Belle Boutique – Features a custom hat bar and women’s clothing
- Outlaws and Gypsies – Western-inspired fashion and boots
- The Exchange – Upscale consignment shop with designer finds
Home & Gifts
- Rough and Ready Antiques – Vintage treasures and collectibles
- Georgetown Antique Mall – Multiple vendors offering antiques and vintage items
- Mesquite Creek Outfitters – Outdoor gear and apparel with an in-store bar
Specialty Shops
- Lark and Owl Bookstore – Independent bookshop with gifts and a bistro
- Georgetown Winery – Local wines and wine-related gifts
- All Things Kids – Toy store with interactive play areas
Practical Travel Tips for Georgetown
Make the most of your Georgetown visit with these helpful tips and local insights.
Visitor Resources
The Georgetown Visitor Center on the town square is an excellent first stop. They offer free maps, brochures, and local advice. The center also has a great photo opportunity with a Georgetown-themed wall perfect for social media posts.
Getting Around
- Downtown parking is free but can be limited during festivals and weekends. Several public lots are available around the square.
- The downtown area is very walkable, with most attractions within a few blocks of the courthouse.
- For attractions outside downtown, a car is recommended.
- Bike rentals are available at the Sheraton Georgetown Hotel for guests.
Local Etiquette
- Georgetown maintains a friendly, small-town atmosphere. A smile and “hello” to locals is always appreciated.
- Many restaurants are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
- Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
- Tipping 15-20% is customary at restaurants and for tour guides.
Local Tip: Visit the Visitor Center to pick up free red poppy seeds to plant at home! These seeds are from the same strain as Georgetown’s famous poppies and make a wonderful souvenir.
Day Trips from Georgetown
Georgetown’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other parts of Central Texas.
Austin (30 minutes)
Texas’s capital city offers world-class music, food, and culture. Visit the State Capitol, explore South Congress Avenue, or enjoy the nightlife on 6th Street. Don’t miss Barton Springs Pool for a refreshing swim.
Round Rock (15 minutes)
Home to the Round Rock Express minor league baseball team and the famous Round Rock Donuts. The Old Settlers Park offers recreational activities and hosts many festivals throughout the year.
Texas Hill Country Wineries (1 hour)
The Texas Wine Trail features dozens of wineries scattered throughout the picturesque Hill Country. Fredericksburg, about 2 hours away, is the heart of Texas wine country and also offers German heritage sites.
Explore Beyond Georgetown
Discover the best tours and activities in Central Texas!
Ready to Experience Georgetown?
From the historic charm of the Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas to the natural wonders of Blue Hole and Inner Space Cavern, Georgetown offers a perfect blend of small-town hospitality and diverse attractions. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures along the San Gabriel River, a shopping expedition through unique boutiques, or a culinary journey through local restaurants and wineries, Georgetown delivers an authentic Texas experience that will leave you planning your return visit.
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