What Are the Best Texas Hill Country Cities?

Encompassing over 31,000 square miles of Central Texas, the beautiful Texas Hill Country is the fourth largest region in Texas. This sprawling landscape combines rolling hilltops with peaceful meadows, serene woodlands, winding rivers, and natural springs, making it a hub for outdoor activities. There are over 18 counties that are a part of Hill Country, including major cities like San Antonio and Austin, as well as more rural towns. But what are the best Texas Hill Country Cities? With so many towns to choose from, deciding on one can feel a bit daunting. But cast your worries aside; we’ve done the hard work for you. Check out favorites among Texas Hill Country cities below.

Discover the Charm of Texas Hill Country Towns

If you want to trade in the big cities for a small town feel, a vacation to Texas Hill Country is for you. Across these charming towns, go wine tasting at Hill Country wineries, wander meadows at the lavender capital of Texas, or take a day trip to float and fish along the Guadalupe River or the Pedernales River. Whichever Hill Country city you stay in, you’re in for a treat. But what are the best Texas Hill Country cities? See our top picks below.

Wimberley

Experience “a little bit of heaven” when you retreat to Wimberley, Texas. This picture-perfect destination boasts unique charm in its historic downtown area, featuring many wineries, restaurants, live music dance halls, and more. Not to mention, Wimberley is loved for its close proximity to top outdoor attractions like the Blue Hole Regional Park and Jacob’s Well, two natural swimming holes, and Old Baldy, where travelers hike 218 rock steps to the peak of the mount for gorgeous views of Wimberley Valley. Moreover, Wimberley features access to the Blanco River, which is popular for picnics, fishing, swimming, and camping. Whether you’re looking for a blissful trip in nature or a getaway filled with good food, great wine, and charming southern culture, Wimberley is a clear answer to “What are the best Texas Hill Country cities?”

Where to Stay in Wimberley

Looking for a lodging as sweet as the city? The Cedars Ranch has just what you need (and more), especially for romantic getaways in Hill Country. Learn more about this top Wimberley hotel below.

The Cedars Ranch

Located just a short walk from town is The Cedars Ranch, an upscale Texas glamping resort. This eco-friendly property combines modern architecture with the rugged beauty of Texas Hill Country. Indulge in countless indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, whether around the fire pit, for yoga in the Meditation Garden, or for cards in the Event Hall & Lounge. Moreover, spend your downtime playing yard games or bocce ball with the family, or break a sweat at the full-size pickleball courts on-site. Not to mention, this 20-acre property features walking trails through the serene landscape.

You’ll also find a stunning resort-style pool on-site, complete with daybeds, in-water loungers, and a glamorous shaded sitting area. When it comes time to retire for the night, you’ll settle right into your luxurious accommodation, be it a tiny home cabin, a dreamy Geodome, or breathtaking Eco Yurt. These lodgings are perfect for all size parties and feature creature comforts like king beds, full bathrooms, panoramic windows, spacious porches, and more.

Fredericksburg

Still wondering, “What are the best Texas Hill Country cities?” Hidden among the cypress trees of Texas Hill Country is the lovely town of Fredericksburg. Known as Hill Country’s unofficial food and wine capital, a stroll down Main Street reveals a vibrant culinary scene, including farm-to-table dining, breweries, barbecue, sushi, and more. You’ll even find hints of German culture and cuisine! Many Germans sought refuge in Hill Country in the 19th century, providing Fredericksburg, as well as New Braunfels, with rich German heritage seen in the architecture and small businesses around town and displayed at the Pioneer Museum in town. Other area activities include visiting Enchanted Rock, orchards, local farmers markets, and biking through the backroads of Gillespie County.

Where to Stay in Fredericksburg

Luckily, there’s no shortage of stunning boutique hotels to stay at in Fredericksburg. Take a look at our top two picks below.

Onera Fredericksburg

Onera Fredericksburg is one-of-a-kind luxury landscape hotel just steps from downtown. If you’re looking to truly immerse yourself in nature during your stay in Hill Country, then Onera is the clear choice for you. This breathtaking outdoor hotel features a handful of magical accommodations that will leave you reminiscing (if not returning) for years. Stay in treehouses like the Monarch or Spyglass, glamp in glamorous “tents” like the Sage Safari, Cocoon, Lantana Dome, or Buckeye Bungalow. Or, cozy in a stunning lodge with floor-to-ceiling windows and rooftop decks, perfect for stargazing in this Dark Sky community.

Each accommodation here at Onera Fredericksburg features lavish individual amenities, such as cedar hot tubs, outdoor handcarved stone tubs, plunge pools, wraparound porches, fire pits, and more. Moreover, this dreamy outdoor property also features a communal pool area on an elevated deck, surrounded by lush trees and grassy plains. So, when you’re not out visiting shops and exploring Texas Wine Country on the main road, sunbathe on the pool deck or refresh in the pool. You’ll also find a luxurious cedar barrel sauna for cleansing after a long night out.

Dripping Springs

What are the best Texas Hill Country cities? We’d say Dripping Springs is on the top of the list. This beautiful city is just 25 minutes from Austin and full of rich Texas culture. From the annual Brewers Fest and rodeos to unique shopping and restaurants down Historic Mercer Street, there’s plenty to enjoy year round in Dripping Springs. Spend the day hiking and birdwatching at the 130-acre Dripping Springs Ranch Park, featuring six miles of trails through enchanting wooded areas and creeks. Or, make a reservation at the Hamilton Pool Preserve, one of the most spectacular watering holes in Central Texas nestled beneath an overhanging cliff and 50-foot waterfall. Moreover, as a Dark Sky Community, Dripping Springs features breathtaking views of millions of stars in the midnight sky.

Where to Stay in Dripping Springs:

If you decide to stay in Dripping Strings, we have the perfect retreat for you! Learn more about the Liney Moon, a stunning retreat venue, below.

The Liney Moon

The Liney Moon is an 8-acre private retreat nestled among the natural beauty of Texas Hill Country in Dripping Springs. Whether you’re seeking a weekend getaway or a group vacation, this beautiful landscape hotel has what you’re looking for. Find rest and reprieve with the cozy cottages on-site, which are arranged in a semi-circle facing a communal courtyard. Here, you’ll find a picnic area and grills, as well as a variety of yard games to enjoy during downtime, including horseshoes, washers, grass volleyball, a putting green, and more. Soak up the sun by the outdoor pool, venture down the walking trails through scenic terrain on-site, or spend chilly nights beside the fire pit.

Outside of the cottages, which sleep two with a plush king bed, you’ll find other charming accommodations here at Liney Moon. For larger parties of six, settle into a Triplet, or tiny home, featuring a single bedroom, kitchenette, living area, and washer/dryers. If you have the extended family in tow, the Stellar House on-site sleeps 22 guests with four separate bedrooms and all the comforts of home.

What Are the Best Texas Hill Country Cities? Decide for Yourself!

So, what are the best Texas Hill Country cities? Explore them all this summer and decide for yourself! From Wimberley to Fredericksburg, to Dripping Springs, Comfort, and beyond, there are countless delightful towns and breathtaking landscapes to experience in Hill Country. What’s more, see them all with Nook Outdoors. Nook is your gateway to the great outdoors. Our curated collection of boutique hotels, glamping resorts, and more puts nature at the forefront of your vacation. With Nook, you can visit America’s top outdoor destinations without sacrificing the modern luxury of a resort hotel. Whether you’re seeking weekend getaways from Boston or simple two-day vacation ideas, Nook has you covered. Start planning your next adventure by browsing our collection below.