Dripping Springs, the charming “Wedding Capital of Texas,” has become a popular destination for those seeking natural beauty and unique venues like Camp Lucy and the iconic Dancehall. This Texas Hill Country town, just a short drive on Highway 290 from downtown Dripping Springs, offers a range of picturesque settings, from rustic ranches to elegant wineries. Consider day trips to explore attractions like Westcave Preserve, the serene Grotto, or enjoy a relaxing time at The Barber Shop. Embrace the town’s laid-back atmosphere and discover hidden gems like Hawk Lager while immersing yourself in the captivating allure of Dripping Springs.
SEE ALSO: Ultimate Guide To Things To Do in Fredericksburg
Dripping Springs is the perfect place to tie the knot if you’re looking for a destination wedding at a farmstead or visit for a weekend getaway.
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The Salt Lick BBQ
The Salt Lick BBQ, is a world-renowned barbecue restaurant with a long history dating back to the mid-1800s. It’s actually a short 10-minute drive to a neighboring town, Driftwood. The recipes have been transformed since taking on the local flavors of the Texas landscape and today they serve over an average of 2000 people each Saturday. You can’t go wrong with any of the bbq- brisket, pork ribs, or sausage. And, don’t forget to leave some space for Pecan Pie.
18300 FM 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 saltlickbbq.com
Texas Hill Country Olive Company
The Texas Hill Country Olive Co. is a family-owned firm that grows olives on their picturesque 17-acre site nestled among the rolling hills of Texas’ countryside with a Tuscan-style building. Only 35 minutes from southwest Austin, this is an ideal location for special weddings, welcome parties, rehearsal dinners, or those passing through on a road trip. For those who want to taste Texas Hill Olive Company’s olives and olive oil in flatbreads, sandwiches, salads, and more, the company has a bistro on site. The tour covers their olive press, milling methods, and the history of Extra Virgin Olive Oil. For individuals wanting to enjoy some food with their education or snacks, there is a tasting of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar where they will walk you through the tastings and pairings with tiny bites.
2530 W Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 texashillcountryoliveco.com
Treaty Oak Distilling
Tucked away from the noise of the city, the Treaty Oak Ranch sits on a twenty-seven-acre plot of land. Treaty Oak Distilling, a distillery that specializes in whiskey and gin, has been operating for over a decade. With the goal of “the pursuit of the curious,” they have some interesting products, including the world’s longest-aged gin. Treaty Oak also has a restaurant, live music, and a lively cocktail bar. You’ll enjoy a rustic hill country atmosphere with simple, modern spaces.
16604 Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 treatyoakdistilling.com
Dreamland
Dreamland is a 64-acre amusement park, music venue, leisure area, and art center all rolled into one. You can rent out a pickleball court if you’re seeking some activity! Pickleball is a hybrid of tennis and ping pong that’s open to everyone. The game speed is adjustable, allowing you to change it from slow to fast or vice versa. Mini-golf is a popular recreational activity in many areas, but none does it quite like Dreamland. For those seeking a colorful and magical course, they have the Dream Course. The Dream course is designed for children yet welcomes everyone to play. The Challenge course, which derives its name from the fact that it challenges you more than other courses, features hills, stunning sculptures, historical places, and a chicken coop among other attractions. The Art and Sculpture Garden at Dreamland is a unique collection of international art and sculptures. It’s impressively curated, showcasing many forms of beauty and style. Events are common as is live music so check their events calendar when planning.
2770 US-290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 dreamlanddstx.com
Pedernales Falls State Park
The 5,400-acre Pedernales Falls State Park is located in Central Texas and is about a 1.5-hour drive from San Antonio. The magnificent Pedernales Falls – a set of cascades that descend the steps of layered limestone rocks along the Pedernales River – are the main draw. The falls are only a quarter-mile walk from the lot, making it ideal for families with children. The park also has camping and hiking trails, as well as bike paths. You can have lunch with a designated area for picnic tables, go geocaching, bird-watch, hike, mountain bike, and even ride horses in the area. There is a swimming area on the river throughout the year; however, it’s best during the summer months when temperatures are warmer.
2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636 tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/pedernales-falls
Twisted X Brewing Company
Twisted X Brewing Company is based in Dripping Springs and specializes in creating handcrafted Texas-American beverages using high-quality, local ingredients. The combination of Texas craft beer with Mexican-style spirit and taste brings this cocktail together. The brewery is available for pub crawls and tastings. Their most popular choices are Twisted X, Cow Creek, and Fuego, but they also have a rotation of fan favorites and seasonal items on tap. The food truck outside serves delectable pizzas, Mexican dishes, and more depending on the time of year. Twisted X Brewing also has live performances, making it a great spot for business gatherings and holiday parties.
23455 FM150 W, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Hamilton Pool Preserve
The Hamilton Pool Preserve is a swimming hole in the Hill Country of Texas. This heritage preserve is located 20 miles west of Austin, Texas on Highway 71. A 50-foot waterfall cascades down into a pool below, following along a limestone emergence. The natural pool, which is a protected ecosystem, never runs dry during droughts. The trip to the pool and waterfall is 1 mile long and slightly uphill via rough trails. The main features and outdoor activities of the 232-acre Hamilton Pool Preserve include- the stunning 50-foot waterfalls that feed into Hamilton Preserve, limestone bluffs, caves, and guided hiking tours available on request. The confluence with the Pedernales River is a spectacular sight. There are several uncommon bird species, including the Golden-Cheeked Warbler.
24300 Hamilton Pool Road, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
SEE ALSO: 11 Best Swimming Holes in Austin
Dr. Joseph M. and Sarah Pound Farmstead
If you are looking for a unique and educational experience, be sure to visit the Dr. Pound Pioneer Farmstead. This historic farm, located in Hays County, Texas United States, was founded and built by Doctor Joseph McKegg Pound and his wife Sarah in 1854. You may visit the historical site of a Central Texas Pioneer and see their restored barn, smokehouse, windmill, and garden areas while taking in the rural life. The farmstead isn’t just an interesting sight–it’s also full of knowledge about our community’s history.
419-B Founders Park Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Dripping Springs Distilling
If you’re looking for a distillery with a bit of history, Dripping Springs Distilling is the place for you. Built in 2005, their first bottle was sold in 2007. Not only did they build the first distillery in the Texas Hill Country, but they’ve been producing award-winning vodkas, gins, and bourbons ever since. In August 2021 they opened their new Visitor Center and Distillers Hall, which offers tastings, tours, and craft cocktails. Shareable dishes include Texas Caviar with chips and Salsa, great with a tasting flight of three spirits. Note they’ve also got a great brunch with items like boozy bourbon French toast and carnitas street tacos. So if you’re looking to take a trip back in time and learn about the origins of distilling in the Lone Star State, be sure to check out Dripping Springs Distilling.
5330 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 drippingspringsdistilling.com
Driftwood Estate Winery
Driftwood Estate Vineyard and Winery is a family-owned company that has been in operation since 1998. The vineyard is tucked on 18 acres in Hays County and produces 10,000 cases of wine each year, making it one of the delectable activities in Dripping Springs. Driftwood Estate specializes in producing high-quality wine from 100% Texas grapes, and they would be delighted if you tried them during their year-round wine tastings. For larger gatherings, they provide standing room at the wine counter, sitting tasting area tables, and group reservations. They have a restaurant on site that serves burgers, gyros, salads, pizzas, small dishes, and more. If the tasting room is closed, you may purchase a bottle of wine to enjoy with your meal in the bistro. The views from their bluff are breathtaking, and spending a few hours with a glass of wine and friends, family, or alone is enough reason to visit!
4001 Elder Hill Rd, Driftwood, TX 78619 driftwoodwine.com
Dripping Springs Vodka
Dripping Springs Vodka is a craft vodka made in small batches and micro-distilled twenty times in their proprietary 50-gallon copper pot stills. Founded by brothers Gary and Kevin Kelleher in 2005, the first batch of Dripping Springs Vodka was released in April 2007. The distillery’s visitor center has a tasting room, craft cocktail bar, and Texan bites. Visitors can take a full distillery tour between Thursday-Sunday.
5330 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 drippingspringsvodka.com
Milton Reimers Ranch Park
For those looking to break the heat of summer, there are many options for a dip including swimming holes, rivers, and creeks. The Pedernales River is open for swimming at their state park. Kayaking is great with a launch Milton Reimers Ranch Park which is also popular for rock climbing and mountain biking.
23610 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/reimers-ranch
Charro Ranch Park
Charro Ranch Park is was donated to the City of Dripping Springs in 2008 though is actually a short drive to Driftwood. This is a great place for relaxed recreation such as nature viewing, leisurely walks, or picnicking.
22690 W. FM 150 Driftwood, TX 78619
Lucky Arrow Retreat
Looking for a unique and luxurious lodging experience? Look no further than Lucky Arrow Retreat! This resort offers beautiful cabin rentals & yurts, each designed with a perfect mix of rustic charm & modern style. Whether you’re visiting solo or need accommodations for a large group, we have just what you need to make your stay unforgettable. Plus, their property is pet-friendly so everyone can enjoy their time here!
3600 Bell Springs Road Dripping Springs, Texas 78620 luckyarrowretreat.com
Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery
Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery, established in 2010, is named after one of the city’s most famous swimming holes. They take pleasure in being an inconspicuous alternative — simply pour yourself a glass of wine, get together with your friends, and have a good time! The tasting room is open for shots, flights, and cocktails using their numerous vodkas. You’re welcome to bring your own food or have your preferred food delivered on days when they don’t have a food truck outside. And the best part is that they want you to celebrate your birthday there! Cakes and cupcakes are always appreciated! The facility is pet and kid-friendly!
2250 East Hwy 290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Sidecar Tasting Room
In a memorable, Prohibition-style setting, the Sidecar Tasting Room is great for getting a glass of wine. The Bell Springs Winery outpost in town features Tempranillo, Albarino, Montepulciano, and other varietals alongside a modest selection of cheese plates and other delights. Live music is performed several days each week at this laid-back tasting room.
501 Old Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 sidecartastingroom.com
Whether you’re exchanging vows surrounded by towering oak trees at one of the many picturesque parks in town, going rock climbing, or visiting Dr. Joseph M. and Sarah Pound Farmstead, you’re guaranteed to have a beautiful setting in Dripping Springs.
In addition to its many lovely outdoor settings, Dripping Springs also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and many fun things to keep guests entertained before and after your big day. Take a stroll down historic Mercer Street, browse the unique boutiques downtown, or hit the links at one of the area’s championship golf courses. There’s something for everyone in Dripping Springs!
