The Main Street in Boerne, Texas. Editorial credit: Philip Arno Photography / Shutterstock.com

11 Cutest Small Towns in Texas

Spanning a territory larger than France, Texas is vast; its enormity ensures it is home to numerous attractions. And it's not just the awe-inspiring Big Bend National Park or the heart-ravishing beauty of its coastline that draws visitors. From Austin to Fort Worth and from San Antonio to Houston, Texas is studded with big cities and metropolises. However, what often goes unnoticed is a delightful array of lovely small towns, many of which are unbelievably cute and full of character and charm. From Fredericksburg to Mineral Wells, discover below the 11 cutest small towns in Texas.

Fredericksburg

The Main Street in Fredericksburg, Texas.
The Main Street in Fredericksburg, Texas. Image credit ShengYing Lin via Shutterstock.com

It would be inconceivable to omit Fredericksburg from any list of the cutest small towns in Texas. Hosting about 11,500 residents, Fredericksburg sits squarely in the middle of the deliciously scenic Texas Hill Country. Known for its picturesque setting, Fritztown (as Fredericksburg is affectionately nicknamed) is the quintessential destination for a Texas outing. Visitors enjoy strolling through Marktplatz, the epicenter of Fredericksburg’s Main Street. Marktplatz exudes an endearing Old West facade and brims with antique stores suitable for any budget. It is not uncommon to spot a few people walking around with alcohol, a feature that speaks to the town’s free-spirited character. The National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg provides a surreal and moving walk-through of World War II and is among the town’s most sought-after attractions. The town is home to countless attractions. Just grab a table at Altstadt Brewery, known for its German-style beers and delicious food, and plan your day accordingly.

Ozona

Street view in Ozona, Texas
Street view in Ozona, Texas, via michelmond / Shutterstock.com

Tucked away on the western edge of the Texas Hill Country, about 100 miles north of the Mexican border, Ozona might easily be missed or overlooked. But once discovered, visitors enjoy exploring the ruins of a beautiful frontier town, whose quaint and historic town square exudes old-fashioned charm. Dubbed “The Biggest Little Town in the World,” Ozona is an underrated gem. The Crockett County Courthouse, an ornate piece of architectural eye candy situated in Ozona’s Historic Town Square, is hard to miss. Also, the David Crockett Monument, celebrating a hero of the historic Battle of the Alamo, is engraved with the inspiring words: “Be sure you are right, then go ahead." The tree-covered central plaza, home to this monument, is peacefully green. Visitors also love “The Tie That Binds” sculpture, a bronze family statue on the courthouse grounds that serves as a memorial to the area's pioneering families. Finally, the Escondido Draw Recreational Area, the newest motorized offroad park in Texas, lies about 27 miles southwest of Ozona.

Comfort

Historic downtown Comfort, Texas
Historic downtown Comfort, Texas, By Renelibrary - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, File:Comfort17 (1 of 1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Although tiny, with just about 1,500 residents, Comfort boasts a charming historic district and could just be the Hill Country’s best-kept secret. Visitors will want to stay in a clean and cozy cabin at Camp Comfort, a boutique bed-and-breakfast originally built as an athletics club and bowling alley just before the Civil War. This little piece of heaven is a gorgeous place to watch a sunset or stargaze at night. Guests can then stroll through Comfort’s historic business district, a bewitching stretch reputed to be among the most well-preserved in Texas. More than 100 structures here date back to the 1800s, seven of which were designed by Alfred Giles, one of the most admired and celebrated architects in Texas. Before heading back, visitors will need to check out the James Kiehl Natural Area, a lovely park with a river running through it, boasting a wonderful forest feel.

Rockport

Rockport Texas waterfront
Rockport Texas waterfront, By BrianGrunberger - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, File:Rockport, Texas.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Although it was devastated by Hurricane Harvey a few years ago, Rockport has rebounded to its old, charming self. Home to about 10,900 residents, Rockport is celebrated for its quirky downtown area and vibrant festival scene. Nestled along a long, beautiful stretch of coast often referred to as the Texas Riviera, Rockport epitomizes the quintessential Texas beach town. Walking barefoot on the beach and soaking in the sumptuous waterfront views is a must-do. Visitors can often spot pods of dolphins frolicking in the water near the picturesque pier. For those interested in retail therapy, the Rockport Cultural Arts District (RCAD), the first of its kind in the Coastal Bend, promises to engage all senses. The Rockport Center for the Arts, a highlight of the district, serves as a beacon of artistic inspiration. Just steps away, the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site offers a memorable and nostalgic journey, ranking among the best historical sites in the state.

Boerne

old vintage buildings in western style and decoration in Boerne, Texas
Old vintage buildings in western style and decoration in Boerne, Texas, via travelview / Shutterstock.com

Lively and spirited, Boerne (pronounced “Bernie”) is situated along the scenic Cibolo Creek, less than 15 miles from San Antonio. Founded by German immigrants in 1852 and named after a German author, Boerne is steeped in history, boasting more than 140 historic structures. The Kendall County Courthouse, built in 1870, stands as a beautiful testament to history and is the second-oldest courthouse in Texas. Surrounded by bald cypresses that punctuate the rugged limestone landscape, Boerne may be understated yet features a vibrant Main Street known as the Hill Country Mile. A visit to Peggy's on the Green is recommended for a sizzling brunch in a thoughtfully restored 19th-century dining room, where the lobster rolls are a culinary delight. Outdoor attractions include the Cave Without a Name, filled with stalagmites, and Boerne City Lake Park, an excellent spot for paddling.

Granbury

Hood County Courthouse during renovation in Granbury, Texas.
Hood County Courthouse during renovation in Granbury, Texas. Editorial credit: xradiophotog / Shutterstock.com

Granbury, a town of about 13,000, has been recognized by USA Today as the Best Historic Small Town in America for three consecutive years. Its historic downtown square was the first courthouse square in Texas to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Granbury is quaint and rustic, thanks in part to the shimmering waters of Lake Granbury, which is one of the town's most defining features. The lake gives the town a peaceful, homely ambiance that enchants first-time visitors. The 1886 Granbury Opera House, a cultural staple for almost 140 years, is a must-visit for theater enthusiasts. The Hood County Jail Museum brings the town's history to life with fascinating artifacts, photographs, relics, and engaging stories.

Llano

The historic Llano Courthouse, Texas.
The historic Llano Courthouse, Texas. Image credit Fotoluminate LLC via Shutterstock

From the moment you arrive, it's clear that Llano is a gem. Situated on a wide, open landscape on the Edwards Plateau, about seventy-two miles northwest of Austin, Llano boasts a rustic ambiance thanks to the Llano River winding through it. First-time visitors are often captivated by the Llano County Courthouse, a landmark that anchors the town's historic square. Built in the 1890s and over 120 years old, this imposing courthouse is distinguished as both a designated historic and an archaeological landmark. The Llano County Historical Museum, located on the scenic banks of the Llano River, showcases interesting historical artifacts, such as a full-sized chuck wagon, and tells the story of Llano in an engaging manner. For authentic Texas BBQ, where you pick your meat straight from the pit, Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que is a must-visit.

Glen Rose

Downtown Glen Rose, Texas
Downtown Glen Rose, Texas, By Renelibrary - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, File:Downtown Glen Rose Texas (1 of 1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Home to about 2,900 residents, Glen Rose is renowned for being the gateway to Dinosaur Valley State Park. This park is famous for its dinosaur footprints, a rocky yet picturesque shoreline, and a scenic river. However, Glen Rose offers much more than its prehistoric wonders. Visitors enjoy exploring the many well-preserved buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places in downtown Glen Rose. The Somervell County Courthouse, one of the town's most striking features, is celebrated for its beautiful architecture, a statue of the town's founder, and abundant shade trees. Nearby, the charming Paluxy Heritage Park, situated along the Paluxy River, serves as an excellent spot for relaxation or reflection.

Wimberley

Wimberley, Texas: The small shops at Wimberley Square
Wimberley, Texas: The small shops at Wimberley Square

The Texas Hill Country boasts another gem with the quaint town of Wimberley, a Texas treasure known for its wineries, spring-fed swimming holes, and vibrant artist community. However, before you take a refreshing dip in Jacob’s Well, an artesian spring with a constant water temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit, consider indulging in some retail therapy at Wimberley Square. This bustling area is filled with numerous restaurants, such as the Wimberley Cafe, which offers a delectable brunch including standout chicken and waffles. For those interested in exquisite hand-blown glass art, including chandeliers, Wimberley Glassworks, a town feature for over 20 years, is a must-visit. Afterwards, take your time wandering through the area’s beautiful lavender fields.

Salado

Davis Mill historical marker in Salado, Texas.
Davis Mill historical marker in Salado, Texas. Image credit Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Positioned midway between Waco and Austin, Salado is one of Texas's most underrated small towns. Quaint, charming shops are scattered throughout, while historic sites capture your attention at every turn. Salado is nestled along a picturesque creek that shares its name, set in the rolling hills of Bell County. The Shady Villa Hotel, originally known as the Stagecoach Inn and thought to be the town’s oldest surviving structure, was built in 1852 as a rest stop along the famous Chisholm Trail. For outdoor enthusiasts, the town offers attractions like the dog-friendly Chalk Ridge Falls Park, featuring lush foliage, rock formations, bridges (including a wavy suspension bridge), and scenic hiking trails.

Mineral Wells

A sign over a road in Mineral Wells Texas that reads Welcome to Mineral Wells Home of Crazy
A sign over a road in Mineral Wells Texas that reads Welcome to Mineral Wells Home of Crazy, via jmanaugh3 / Shutterstock.com

Mineral Wells, with a population of about 30,300, is famous for the Mineral Wells Fossil Park, where enthusiasts can find well-preserved fossils from the "Pennsylvanian Period," and Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway, an outdoor paradise featuring miles of scenic trails, a 640-acre lake, and a rock climbing area. Located just 50 miles from Fort Worth, Mineral Wells' downtown area is adorned with impressive murals on buildings, showcasing stunning architecture and surrounded by breathtaking scenery. For first-time visitors, the Blue Oval Car Barn, with its collection of 1971 Mustangs and other muscle cars, will be a fascinating discovery.

Final Thoughts

Whether you find yourself in the Texas Hill Country or lounging on a sandy beach along the Gulf Coast, Texas is as beautiful as it is vast. You might be enjoying a quiet getaway in the woods or relishing picturesque waterfront views, and you don’t have to be in noisy, overcrowded cities to do so. Scattered across the vast Texas landscape is a delightful array of quaint, small towns, many of which effortlessly enchant first-time visitors. While Fredericksburg may be a well-known destination, towns like Ozona, Comfort, and Rockport also rank among the cutest small towns in the Lone Star State, often mistakenly referred to as the Sunshine State, which is actually Florida.

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