Georgetown, Texas has an old-world charm that has enchanted many visitors into staying for good. Apart from that, this major Texan city also offers excellent grounds for convenient and comfortable living. Its location alone is already a huge advantage as it is close to many excellent schools, teems with diverse job opportunities, and revels in its vibrant community.
Those looking for a refreshing start, whether as someone seeking to grow as an individual or with a family, will find this city to be a great place to live, work, and play. Let’s dive into the different things to do in Georgetown, Texas.
DISCOVER GEORGETOWN, TEXAS
Georgetown, Texas is a medium-sized city located in the central area of Texas. There are many things that Georgetown is well-known for but perhaps the most common association with it is that it is the home of the oldest university in Texas, Southwestern University.
Currently, the city is growing rapidly as it has become a desirable destination for many who want to relocate or come here for a vacation getaway. One of the main reasons behind the influx of visitors and new residents to the area is Georgetown’s mild and pleasant climate. With an average annual temperature of 65°F, it’s an ideal place for a respite from the hot Texas summers.
There’s more to Georgetown than the expected businesses targeting the college/university market. Local bars and restaurants sit alongside museums and galleries, thus providing a diverse array of places to visit and things to do – from chugging your favorite pint with friends to more cultural pursuits.
Given Georgetown, TX’s nature as a lovely place where time seems to stop, you will find a bevy of historic landmarks and attractions, as well as festivals, fairs, and carnivals throughout the year. One of the biggest city highlights is the annual Red Poppy Festival which will be featured later in detail.
Most importantly, the people of Georgetown are friendly and welcoming, making tourists feel right at home. With so many great things happening throughout the year and so many interesting attractions in Georgetown, TX, it comes as no surprise that many are considering this city for their next home.
Location
Georgetown, Texas is one of the premier cities in the Greater Austin Metropolitan Area located in Williamson County. There are more than 86,000 residents living in the city as of July 2022 U.S. Census estimates. This is a substantial 29.1% increase from 2020 figures which saw the population at around 67,000.
Surrounding Georgetown are the areas of Round Rock, Austin, and Pflugerville. Austin and Dallas are accessible via Interstate 35, which runs right through the city. Other nearby major Texas arteries are State Highway 29 and U.S. Highway 195, all of which give Georgetown residents easy mobility in and around the city.
Those from out of state or from outside the country can fly to Austin and land at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), and then drive north for around 34 miles via I-35 to get to Georgetown.
What it is known for
Even though Georgetown is not necessarily a major industrial or economic hub, it’s still largely considered to be one of the most promising small cities in Texas. This can be attributed to its convenient proximity to bigger urban hubs like Austin and Round Rock. Those working in these two cities can enjoy a more tranquil suburban vibe by living in Georgetown which is just a short drive away. Moreover, a comparison of real estate options between Georgetown and these larger cities reveals that home prices in Georgetown are generally more affordable and the lots, more spacious.
While local businesses have been flourishing in Georgetown thanks to the spike in the city’s population, several Fortune 500 companies have also decided to open offices here. This, in effect, has led to a rise in employment stats and an even more progressive city. With companies launching offices like computer developer and manufacturing giant, Dell, many residents no longer have to travel to Georgetown’s neighboring cities for promising career choices.
THINGS TO DO IN GEORGETOWN, TEXAS
Whether it’s a solo trip, an adventure with friends, or settling roots here, there’s something for everyone in Georgetown, Texas. Check out the many things to do here.
Historical sites and landmarks
Georgetown is home to a myriad of historical sites and landmarks, including state parks, churches, and local museums. Listed below are some of the most popular among them.
Stepping into Inner Space Cavern almost feels like entering another world with its stunning stalagmite and stalactite formations, as well as cave chambers of varying sizes. It’s considered a landmark due to its impressive size and the fossilized prehistoric animal remains found here. The dark and humid environment of this cave has also become the habitat of a unique ecosystem that includes a blind shrimp called the eyeless Antrolana, as well as several species of bats and beetles.
This gorgeous lagoon by the San Gabriel River is a favorite place for cooling down among locals, especially since it has a mini waterfall and scenic limestone bluffs along its fringes. The best part is that it’s not far from the downtown area. Before coming here for a dip, though, first check out its website as the city government is taking pains to preserve the natural beauty of the area. That said, it has regulations on what and what not to do while enjoying the time spent here.
The Williamson County Courthouse is a stunning architectural beauty that’s hard to miss. Originally done in the Beaux Arts style in 1909, repairs and renovation efforts were conducted to bring back the structure’s grandeur. It now stands at the center of the city’s central business district. While it no longer serves as the base for present-day court proceedings (there’s a new courthouse in Round Rock that could accommodate more cases in the county), this remarkable building has become a tourist attraction and is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
It’s quite common to see some of the oldest buildings in the downtown area of a city, and Georgetown, TX shares this same trait. Spanning 40 blocks, this area is filled with a merry mix of municipal offices, commercial establishments, and residences that sport a classic Victorian look. At its very core is the Williamson County Courthouse.
One truly unique characteristic of Old Town is the fact that you will find an abundance of red poppies planted just about anywhere in the area. Said to be the gift of a World War I soldier to his mother who planted the first seeds, this has given rise to a festival that celebrates the blossoming of these flowers all around the town square and the rest of the city.
Outdoor beauty and recreation
Georgetown, TX offers both historic charm and places of unmatched natural beauty. And with the city’s residents making an orchestrated effort to protect Mother Nature’s treasures within their midst, you can expect some of the most spectacular and well-preserved nature vistas meant for present and future generations to enjoy.
Here are some of the city’s finest venues for outdoor travel and recreation to add to your list of great things to do in Georgetown, Texas.
PARKS
San Gabriel Park is not only a fun and relaxing recreational facility in the heart of Downtown Georgetown but it also has an official designation as one of only nine parks in the State of Texas owning the title of Lone Star Legacy Park. Built on the banks of the San Gabriel River where two forks of the river meet, this 180-acre park is a favorite venue for concerts and other local events.
The North Fork of the San Gabriel River (or Lake Georgetown), meanwhile, is where you’ll find a good number of the city’s parks and camping areas. Among them are
- Cedar Breaks Park
- Jim Hogg Park
- Russell Park
- Overlook Park
- Sawyer Park
- Walnut Spring Park
GARDENS
A popular spot for garden weddings and outdoor events, the Sunken Garden is a place where one can detach themselves from the rest of the world and walk in a field splashed with various colors. Apart from the default red poppies of Georgetown, you’ll find other flowering plants like lilies, tulips, and hydrangeas in this San Gabriel Park attraction. In its midst is a round water fountain surrounded by plant boxes and benches.
Meanwhile, the Heritage Community Garden is where the locals of Georgetown can put their green thumbs to work. A unique community feature, the plots here are rented out to interested folks. There are certain guidelines to follow when planting here, especially since organic gardening and green waste disposal are being advocated by the Georgetown Parks and Rec Department. Nevertheless, it’s a great way to bond with fellow citizens and save money on the usual groceries.
NATURE AND HIKING TRAILS
A well-known trail in Georgetown is the San Gabriel River Trail/Goodwater Loop. Spanning nearly 27 miles, the trail completely goes around Lake Georgetown and passes through several nature parks and campsites. Whether you’re hiking or biking through the area, the scenic views of both the lake and its surrounding grounds never fail to astound.
Meanwhile, Inner Space Cavern is part of a network of caves that form the Texas Cave Trail. If you’re a dedicated spelunker or someone looking for adventure in the Lone Star State, visiting this trail is an absolute must-do. As many as five caves are part of this underground exploration so a day is not enough to check out all five.
Here are the other four caves you will encounter in this expedition:
- Natural Bridge Caverns
- Cave Without a Name
- Cascade Caverns
- Longhorn Cavern State Park
FISHING AND BOATING
Lake Georgetown is a great place to enjoy a day of boating. Whether you’re fishing for several species of bass, catfish, and crappie or boating around the lake to take in the views, this body of water offers beautiful and calming scenery. There are several boat launches throughout the lake, as well as plenty of places for renting various types of watercraft from jet skis to pontoon boats.
Arts and entertainment
Georgetown is not only known for its historic structures and vast outdoor activities – it also has a vibrant cultural and art scene. From art galleries to museums, theaters to festivals, there is something for everyone to explore here.
ART GALLERIES
The old firehouse near the Downtown Square has been standing for more than a century already. After its renovation in 2013, it was repurposed and turned into the Georgetown Art Center. Not only is it a place for viewing the works of various artists but it is also a venue for learning and improving one’s skills and talents in the visual arts scene.
MUSEUMS
The Williamson Museum acts as a veritable time capsule of the area. Established in 1997, the museum provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the history of Williamson County and explore the various artifacts, photographs, and costumes from the county’s storied past. Guests can also see the restored Clayton-Little House, a 19th-century homestead set up onsite.
THEATERS
Georgetown also has venues for enriching and enjoying the performing arts, from outdoor cinemas to traditional auditoriums. The Georgetown Palace Theatre provides visitors with an immersive entertainment experience, featuring classic films and live performances. As the theater is located in the heart of Georgetown, visitors have easy access to the downtown amenities for a full night of entertainment.
FESTIVALS/EVENTS
As mentioned earlier, the Red Poppy Festival is the main festival in Georgetown that has been celebrated for around 23 years already. This event coincides with the blooming of wild poppies in the area every mid-April. During this period, local businesses, artists, and performers come together to celebrate the city’s history and artistry. Activities include a parade, concerts, and art markets. Patrons also get the chance to sample delicious local cuisine, explore the Children’s Art & Family Zone, and shop for souvenirs from local vendors.
Shopping and dining
Georgetown may not have the standard malls you see in larger urban centers but it has a number of shopping and dining districts that keep residents and visitors close to modern conveniences and the occasional shopping sprees.
Listed below are some retail and dining options in Georgetown, TX.
RETAIL AND DINING HOTSPOTS
Find an array of grocery options plus other popular retail finds when you shop in Wolf Ranch Town Center. It has anchor stores like Target, PetSmart, and Best Buy, as well as popular retail brands like Bath & Body Works and Old Navy within this open-air shopping complex. Restaurants are also available for a caffeine fix, a quick bite, or a big feast.
LOCAL MARKETS
Residents have not only one but two options for farmers markets where they could get the freshest produce, fish, meat, dairy products, artisanal items, and everything else in between from local producers:
- The WilCo Farmers Market is Central Texas’ oldest farmers market, having been in operation since the mid-80s. Get their schedules and venues here.
- Wolf Ranch Farmers Market, meanwhile, opens every Saturday morning in the parking lot of Wolf Ranch Town Center. It plays host to a variety of products from honey to homemade kimchi to sandwiches to your granny’s baked goodies. Visit their Facebook page here.
COFFEE SHOPS
You will find an assortment of coffee shops that not only serve your favorite cuppa Joe but also provide a variety of meals, pastries, and desserts to pair with it. Get your caffeine fix in these highly recommended Georgetown, TX coffee shops:
- August Beverage Co. Get your coffee on the go from this new drive-through shop.
- Monument Cafe. Reminiscent of the 1920s Texas roadside cafes, this establishment in Downtown Georgetown has more than coffee. It also serves breakfast meals and pastries.
- 309 Coffee. This quaint cottage is home to one of the best coffees served in Georgetown. But apart from coffee, it also serves other drinks from teas to wines.
- Alouette Bistro at Lark & Owl. You can enjoy a good book and your cup of coffee at the same time in this coffee shop within a bookstore.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GEORGETOWN, TX WITH BLUE LINE REALTY, LLC
With all the fun and exciting things to do in Georgetown, Texas, it’s no wonder why many people who visit end up settling down in this urban center with a suburban feel.
To get a better understanding of what to expect when you decide to make that crucial move to Georgetown, TX, consulting with a local real estate professional with a thorough knowledge of the area and its housing market and years of experience in the industry is the best course of action. And no one knows the Texas Hill Country more than the team of Blue Line Realty.
Our team at Blue Line Realty focuses on providing clients with personalized services in various endeavors from handling new construction to buying and reselling homes in the Texas Hill Country.
You, too, can look forward to a seamless and hassle-free transaction in Georgetown, TX when you let us help you in buying real estate here. Call us at 512.496.6784 or send an email here so you can start fresh in Georgetown, Texas.