Are you looking for some fun things to do in Dripping Springs, Texas? I’ve got you covered!!
Drip is known for being a tourist hot spot in the Texas Hill Country overflowing with trendy places to eat, drink and stay. Coined as the Wedding Capital of Texas, Dripping Springs hosts over 1000 weddings per year and massive amounts of travelers come through the town as a result.
There are century oaks, rolling hills, limestone cliffs with rivers and an endless supply of brews and wine as people continue to create unique wineries, breweries and distilleries in this area.
We have festivals, nature adventure and so much more. It is truly a dream place to live and visit!
I am a local realtor and lifestyle blogger and love to tell everyone the BEST places to go while visiting Drip! I make it my aim to try as many new places and experiences as possible so that I can be a living tour guide to help make your memories the most fun and enjoyable.
So let’s get started with the TOP places to visit and things to do in Dripping Springs in 2024…
1. Milton Reimer’s Ranch Climber’s Canyon trail
Climbers Canyon Trail at Milton Reimers Ranch is my absolute favorite place to send nature lovers who are visiting Dripping Springs. This trail offers access to some of the best climbing in Texas with routes that cater to both beginners and seasoned pros along with being a hidden “Fernguli” like trail down to the Pedernales River. I’m putting it as my top thing to do because so many locals haven’t even seen it before. It’s the most gorgeous place in Dripping in my opinion.
Milton Reimers Ranch Park is about a 20 minute drive northwest from downtown Dripping Springs and operates daily from 7:00 AM until civil twilight, which varies but is around 9:00 PM during the summer months. For those planning to visit, the park charges a day use fee of $5 CASH per person, with specific discounts available for seniors and disabled veterans. The park, renowned for its extensive trails and outdoor activities like rock climbing and fishing along the Pedernales River, offers a mix of adventure and scenic beauty ideal for nature lovers and is hands down my favorite place to go when I need a good dose of nature! Read more about it HERE!
2. Abby Jane Bakeshop
If you are wanting to stop by one of the best bakeries around the hill country then definitely check out Abby Jane Bakeshop! Those belgian croissants crunch like tiny potato chips and the flour is milled in the same building by the famous ancient grain flour company- Barton Springs Mill. Abby brings so much expertise and creativity to her bakery and it’s worth stopping it and trying!
Abby Jane Bakeshop is tucked away at 16604 Fitzhugh Rd, Unit C in Dripping Springs, Texas behind Treaty Oak Distilling. This yummy bakery opens its doors from Thursday to Sunday, operating from 9 AM to 3 PM on weekends and starting an hour earlier at 8 AM on Thursdays and Fridays. It’s the perfect spot for a fresh, handcrafted treat in the heart of Texas Hill Country. Read more about it HERE !
3. Dripping Springs Distilling
I have to tell you that I’m not much of a drinker and so my alcohol recommendations are extremely limited, but the Spicy Springs drink at Dripping Distilling is about the only thing that I’ll drink when visiting a local drinking place! Dripping Distilling has a variety of cocktails, a great menu to order from for brunch, lunch or dinner and has a great property with a playground along with indoor and outdoor dining. I host a monthly networking meetup here solely for the Spicy Springs- you’ve got to try it!
Dripping Springs Distilling, located at 5330 Bell Springs Road in Dripping Springs, Texas, is renowned for its premium, handcrafted spirits. The distillery is open Thursday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 8:00 PM and on Sunday from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Visitors can enjoy craft cocktails, tasting flights of award-winning spirits, and tours of the small batch distillery. The facility includes a beautiful tasting room, a patio, and outdoor seating under oak trees, making it a perfect spot to relax and savor the Texas Hill Country ambiance.
Dripping Springs Vodka is micro-distilled 20 times in 50-gallon copper stills and finished with pure Hill Country artesian spring water, ensuring a smooth and high-quality product. The distillery also offers a range of other spirits, including gins and bourbons, each crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail.
For more details or to book a tour, visit Dripping Springs Distilling
4. Speeding Springs
Speeding Springs is a 70 acre property owned by the Salyard family who collect, restore and sell classic cars! They have built a huge show barn where they store these incredible cars and open it up to the public to come and hang out and be around these cars. They have car shows, vintage sign swap meets and are now building a kids drag racing track!
Located at 7100 Creek Road, this premier destination for vintage automotive lovers is open to the public Monday through Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Whether you’re looking to purchase a classic car or simply admire the timeless beauty of automotive history, Speeding Springs provides a perfect setting to indulge your passion in the Texas Hill Country! Click HERE for more info.
5. Tillies
If you are looking for the fanciest dinner for a date night or special occasion then Tillie’s is the go to spot. Camp Lucy is one of the most picturesque venues in the entire area and you feel like you are on another continent when you are walking around the grounds. Tillie’s upscale dining is where you can dress up and eat the most fabulous food and even look out the window and watch the flock of Alpacas grazing.
Tillie’s at Camp Lucy, located at 3509 Creek Road in Dripping Springs, Texas, offers an exquisite dining experience in a uniquely historic setting. Named one of the “50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America” by People magazine, Tillie’s features a reconstructed Vietnamese town hall building, meticulously shipped and reassembled at Camp Lucy. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, Tillie’s serves a menu inspired by global flavors with a focus on local ingredients. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating amidst the stunning Texas Hill Country backdrop. Whether for brunch, lunch, or dinner, Tillie’s promises a memorable culinary journey.
For more details, visit Tillie’s at Camp Lucy
6. Mercer Street Dancehall
Looking to get your boot scoot boogie on? Drive a few miles south on RR12 to Mercer Dancehall and experience a true Texan delight of two-stepping to live country music.
Mercer Street Dancehall is a beloved family-run venue offering an authentic Texas dancehall experience. Located at 23490 Ranch Road 12, this lively spot features live music every weekend, making it a perfect destination for music enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a night of dancing. The dancehall also boasts a newly opened kitchen, Mercer Munchies, and charming cabins for those wishing to extend their stay. With events running from Friday to Sunday, visitors can enjoy free dance lessons on Friday night, live bands, and a welcoming atmosphere on the spacious wrap-around porch.
For more information, visit Mercer Street Dancehall
7. Mercer Street shopping
Historic Mercer Street in downtown Dripping Springs may not look like much at first glance, but there are fun shops and stores hidden all around the area! You can shop for everything from women’s and men’s clothing to antiques, home furnishings, outdoor supplies and even pick up raw milk behind Mazama at the new Homegrown store!
Start at one end by Starrs on Mercer and work your way all the way down to The Palm Social at the other end. Don’t forget to swing behind Vintage Soul and check out Sicara Design, Mercer Street Art, Grawlix, Farmhouse Cortale and Revel Wilde!
8. Walk down to the Dripping Spring
The Dripping Spring on Mercer Street, located in the heart of historic downtown Dripping Springs, Texas, is a picturesque spot that perfectly embodies the town’s namesake. Found on the west end of Mercer Street by the Fed Ex drop off box in the visitor center parking lot, this natural spring is surrounded by lush, fern-covered limestone ledges that continuously drip water into a serene stream.
This landmark has historical significance, serving as a gathering place for Native Americans and early settlers of the Hill Country. Today, it remains a beloved natural feature for visitors and locals alike, offering a hidden spot to appreciate the natural beauty of the area. So many locals don’t even know it’s down there because it id hidden by a bamboo forest and a ton of trees!
9. Hamilton Pool
Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the most famous places in Dripping Springs. Although the big freeze of 2022 stopped people from being able to hike under the grotto, you can still swim when water levels are approved (check the website for updates). One of the most beautiful parts of going to Hamilton Pool is not only the grotto and waterfall, but hiking down to the Pedernales River on the river trail! Don’t forget to check that out and enjoy splashing around in the cool water!
Hamilton Pool Preserve, located at 24300 Hamilton Pool Road in Dripping Springs, Texas, is a stunning natural oasis featuring a 50-foot waterfall that plunges into a clear, jade-green pool. This historic swimming hole is surrounded by steep canyon walls and large stalactites.
To visit Hamilton Pool Preserve, reservations are required every day of the week, and can be made online through the Travis County Parks website. The preserve operates with two reservation periods daily: from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Each reservation allows for one vehicle and up to eight people. Fees include a $12 reservation fee per vehicle and additional entrance fees of $8 per adult and $3 per senior; children 12 and under are free. Note that swimming is not guaranteed and depends on water quality and conditions.
For more details or to make a reservation, visit the Travis County Parks website.
10. Coffee at Mazama Coffee Co
What can I say about Mazama? It is the local hot spot to grab a drink, meet a friend or schedule meetings outdoors when the weather is great. They have just remodeled their side room to accommodate more seating and also made it a more beautiful place to gather. I always try to sit outside in their patio when it’s not blazing hot. You’ll often find locals and business owners outside enjoying the relaxjng lifestyle that this amazing town has to offer. I always get the iced mocha and ham and swiss croissant. Their chai is also great too!
Mazama Coffee Co. in Dripping Springs is a beloved local coffee house, bakery, and roastery located at 301-B Mercer Street. They serve sandwiches, salads, and other delightful lunch options. Mazama Coffee operates Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 4 PM, Saturdays from 8 AM to 4 PM, and Sundays from 8 AM to 2 PM. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee under the spreading oak tree or in their welcoming indoor space. For more details, visit Mazama Coffee Co.
11. Summer Revival Wine and Restaurant
Summer Revival Wine quickly became my go to spot for lunch with friends. The owner, Becky, is such a delight and is one of the most thoughtful and intentional business owners I’ve met. She is quick to refill your drinks and recommend so many great pairings. The rotating food menu is always fresh, creative and so delicious and the space is curated with beauty, interesting design and color- my favorite!
Summer Revival Wine Co., located at 665 W Highway 290 in Dripping Springs, TX, offers a delightful combination of a neighborhood restaurant, wine bar, and tasting room. Open from Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM, they feature elevated casual cuisine that pairs perfectly with their natural wines, crafted by owner and winemaker Ian Atkins. The menu focuses on simple, seasonal dishes that highlight the beauty of the Texas Hill Country. No reservations are needed, and they operate on a casual, counter-service concept.
12. Hudsons on Mercer
Want to hear some local talent and enjoy live music on Mercer Street? Hudson’s on Mercer is a place where music is king! This is one of the main places to send your aspiring musicians to take singing or music lessons and is a local’s favorite event venue to grab a beer and enjoy live music on the weekends.
Hudson’s On Mercer in Dripping Springs is a vibrant live music venue and bar that doubles as a music school, making it a central hub for both entertainment and education in the community. Located at 381 West Mercer Street, Hudson’s offers live music performances from Wednesday to Saturday, with doors opening from 5 PM to 11 PM. The venue features a variety of musical acts and hosts fun events like trivia nights and karaoke. Their menu includes a selection of bar snacks, burgers, salads, and more, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy while soaking in the live music atmosphere. For more details, visit Hudson’s On Mercer.
13. Westcave Preserve
If you love serenity and honor the preservation of nature then you will love the guided tours at Westcave Preserve! I went without my kids (so glad I did!) and learned so much about conservation, the land and how these unique grottos were formed. There is a palpable reverence when hiking this tour and it is not a free for all to roam the area. The guide is there to educate and inspire you to respect this beautiful place. I even learned what nature bathing was and loved it! What a cool way to unplug and take a slower pace in such a beautiful area.
Westcave Preserve, located at 24814 Hamilton Pool Road in Round Mountain, Texas, is a 76-acre natural sanctuary that showcases the unique beauty of the Texas Hill Country. Managed by the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, this preserve offers a variety of guided tours and educational programs aimed at fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and conservation.
Visitors can enjoy guided canyon tours that take them through an arid savanna, down a limestone crevice, and into a lush canyon featuring a stunning 40-foot waterfall that feeds an emerald pool below. The tours include a visit to a one-room limestone cave and are available by reservation only. The preserve also offers specialty hikes, such as meditative walks, photography tours, and forest bathing sessions, each providing a unique way to experience the tranquility and natural splendor of the area.
Westcave Preserve is dedicated to environmental education and offers field trips for school groups, private tours, and a variety of community outreach programs. Membership at Westcave provides exclusive benefits, including free hikes, member-only events, and discounts on special programs.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center
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Well there you have it! A Dripping Springs local’s TOP 13 Things To Do in Dripping Springs Texas! Want to see 9 weekend itineraries based on personalities? Check out my Enneagram Itineraries for Dripping Springs by clicking HERE!
Do you love Dripping Springs and want to learn more about the area or move here? I’m a local real estate agent and would be happy to answer any questions you have or help you buy or sell real estate in Dripping Springs or the Austin area! Call or email me today to get started! 512-569-8480 or laurenclark@magnoliarealty.com
Check out my Dripping Springs Guide HERE.
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