Looking to get away this summer without going too far? Check out some places to plan a staycation and local attractions in the Austin area.
Liberty Hill
About 45 minutes from downtown Austin lies a self-proclaimed “undecidedly and beautifully offbeat” boutique hotel in Liberty Hill. The River Ranch Inn is on the South San Gabriel River, where guests can spend time swimming, kayaking, fishing and stargazing at night.
Local attractions:Round Rock
The hotel is complete with a pool, scenic views and private event spaces. The Ruby Hotel & Bar is also conveniently located near the historic downtown, which features an abundance of shopping and dining options.
Local attractions:The City Arts Center: The local gallery showcases visual art exhibitions.Paige’s: The local bakery specializes in custom cakes and sweet treats, and is especially known for the birthday cake.Dell Diamond: The stadium is home to the Round Rock Express baseball team, with games taking place on the field throughout the summer.Georgetown
The San Gabriel Inn is a historic bed-and-breakfast, originally built in 1904. The house holds on to much of its 20th-century charm with the original pine floors and leaded-glass front door.
Local attractions:Blue Hole Park: The natural lagoon is located along the South Fork of the San Gabriel River.Georgetown Arts Center: The center is an art gallery, a gift shop showcasing local artisans and a studio space all rolled into one.Georgetown Winery: The tasting room in the town square features local wines from Wimberley, Texas.North Central Austin
The Commodore Perry is a glamorous estate for a luxury visit, wedding or private event. The venue features European-style architecture and decor, a pool and a restaurant. Various activities and entertainment are available on-site, with a location in the center of all that Austin has to offer.
Local attractions:Jo’s Coffee: The iconic Austin coffee spot is just a few steps across the street from the estate.Barton Springs Pool: The spring-fed natural pool offers views of the city skyline while swimming in the 70-degree water or lounging in the grass.Tiny Grocer Café: The grocery store and cafe carries all locally produced items.Dripping Springs
Tucked in the Texas Hill Country, the Yurtopian offers luxury camping, or glamping. The yurts are inspired by traditional Mongolian yurts, complete with resort-level amenities and picturesque views.
Local attractions:Pedernales Falls State Park: Located on the banks of the Pedernales River, visitors can swim, hike, geocache, bird-watch and more at the state park.The Pound House Farmstead and Museum: Take a tour of the Pound House, a 1854 farmstead, where the history of the Pound family is carefully preserved to offer a look into 19th-century life.Texas Hill Country Olive Company: Visit the Texas Hill Country Olive Company for an olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting or shop the award-winning olive oils.
Guests can relax and unwind at The Lost Pines Resort & Spa in Bastrop. (Courtesy Lost Pines Resort & Spa)
Bastrop
This luxury ranch-style resort provides a premier getaway equipped with accommodations for families, weddings, and quick weekend escapes. Guests can enjoy an upscale dining experience, a golf course, a waterpark and a spa.
Local attractions:Bastrop River Co.: The river company provides kayak rentals, river camping and a popular self-guided El Camino Real river trail on the Colorado River.Lost Pines Art Center: The local art center features exhibitions, classes and events for the community.Dinosaur Park: Nestled in nature along the trail, the park showcases life-size dinosaurs. Additional activities available include a playground, a fossil dig, a picnic area and a Dinosaur Store.