9 Little-Known Towns In Texas
Across Texas's vast expanse, there are numerous lesser-known communities. Towns like Mason, right in the heart of Texas, are popular spots for topaz hunting. Marfa, in the remote west, boasts one of the clearest night skies. And in Jefferson, the Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas, you can tour Caddo Lake, the largest natural lake in the state. Take a deeper look at some of the best of these little-known towns and see what they have to offer their residents and visitors alike.
Mason
In the heart of Texas, Mason is a charming town rich in history and surrounded by beautiful outdoor attractions. One of its most notable sites is the Fort Mason Historic Site, a pre-Civil War military outpost that provides insight into early frontier life in Texas. This landmark also highlights the career of Robert E. Lee, who served there as a Lieutenant Colonel from 1856 to 1861 before his promotion to general. For a touch of modern culture, visit Mason Square, the town's central hub, which features the historic Odeon Theater, one of the oldest continuously operating movie theaters in Texas.
Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the nearby Llano River, where popular activities include kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. Additionally, Mason is renowned for topaz hunting, with public lands offering visitors the opportunity to seek out the state's official gem, the Texas blue topaz, designated as such in 1969.
Marfa
Marfa, a remote town in West Texas of less than 2,000 residents, is a hub for modern art fans and mysterious desert phenomena. Known internationally for the Chinati Foundation, an art museum founded in 1986 by minimalist artist Donald Judd, Marfa is a truly unique destination with its mix of contemporary installations and rugged landscapes.
Visitors also often come for the enigmatic Marfa Lights, unexplained orbs of light that appear on the horizon. A viewing platform just outside town provides an ideal spot to witness this natural mystery. Even if you do miss the lights, the night sky here is one of the clearest you will find in the country, with its sheer lack of light pollution that you would get in bigger cities.
Nearby, the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park offer opportunities for you to go hiking in this arid desert environment, and more spots to go star-seeking at night.
Jefferson
Tucked away in East Texas near the Louisiana border, Jefferson is known as the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of Texas." This charming town offers a wide selection of restored antebellum-era homes, many of which welcome visitors for overnight stays. The Jefferson Historical Museum provides an in-depth look at the town's past as a major inland port city during the steamboat era. One notable accommodation here is the Excelsior House Hotel, dating to 1858 and one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in Texas.
Ghost tours are another popular attraction, with numerous local legends linked to the town's history, making it a fun outing, especially during the Halloween season. The Jefferson Ghost Walk is the most popular service in town for those interested in exploring these eerie tales.
For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby Caddo Lake State Park offers opportunities for boating and fishing in its bayou-like waters, which is the largest natural lake in Texas. This beautiful area is surrounded by picturesque, moss-draped cypress trees, making it a perfect spot for a day of relaxation and exploration.
Terlingua
Another community situated near Big Bend National Park, Terlingua is a ghost town that has since evolved into a vibrant community blending history, art, and wonderful desert landscapes. Once a bustling mercury mining town in the early 1900s, Terlingua now draws visitors with its historic ruins, quirky charm, and proximity to the Chihuahuan Desert.
The Terlingua Cemetery, dating back to the early mining era, is a morbid yet popular stop for those interested in who the area's earliest residents were, while the Starlight Theatre, seemingly pulled right out of a cowboy movie, serves as a restaurant and live music venue.
Each November, the community hosts the Terlingua International Chili Championship, which has run annually since 1967 and attracts chili cooks and foodies from across the country. Come in for a bowl and stay for everything else that makes this former ghost town a top-tier destination in Texas!
Alpine
Alpine, located in the Trans-Pecos region, serves as a convenient gateway to the rugged beauty of West Texas. The city is home to Sul Ross State University and boasts a vibrant academic atmosphere, all set against a stunning desert mountain backdrop.
Begin your visit at the Museum of the Big Bend, situated on the university campus. This museum features exhibits covering the region's natural and human history, ranging from prehistoric times to the present day.
Downtown Alpine is famous for its colorful murals and the historic Holland Hotel, which has been operating since 1928. Sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts should not miss Kokernot Field, a vintage-style baseball stadium built in 1947, while the nearby hiking trails in the Davis Mountains offer breathtaking views of Alpine's downtown and the surrounding southwestern deserts.
Additionally, Alpine hosts annual events such as the Texas Cowboy Poetry Gathering, which celebrates the area's rich ranching heritage.
Llano
Located along the banks of the Llano River in central Texas, Llano is sometimes called the "Deer Capital of Texas," as it's a popular destination for hunters due to its large local population of the ruminants.
Non-hunters can enjoy the outdoor delights of Llano, too. Nearby, the Llano River provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing, with scenic riverfront spots like Badu Park coming in highly recommended.
Explore this town's history too at landmarks like the Llano County Courthouse. Built in 1893, it is a striking example of Romanesque Revival architecture that was more common at the time and serves as a beautiful centerpiece of the town square.
Llano's barbecue scene, particularly at the iconic Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, is another draw for food enthusiasts. The town also hosts events such as the Llano Earth Art Festival, celebrating natural art and stone balancing, making Llano a classic Hill Country destination for anyone in the area.
Goliad
Goliad, steeped in Texas history, played a crucial role in the state's fight for independence. The Presidio La BahÃa, established at its current location in 1749 as a Spanish fort, stands as a well-preserved testament to this history, serving both as a museum and a memorial for the 1836 Goliad Massacre. Next to the fort, you will find the beautiful Our Lady of Loreto Chapel, a spiritual landmark that is still in use today.
Additionally, you should visit the nearby Goliad State Park and Historic Site, which offers campsites, maintained hiking trails, and access to the San Antonio River. This town in the deep south of Texas is just a short drive from San Antonio and is a worthwhile stop for anyone heading to the picturesque shores of the Gulf of Mexico.
Blanco
Sitting between San Antonio and Austin, Blanco is a charming and easy escape from big city life. At the heart of the town is Blanco State Park, a favorite destination for swimming, fishing, and picnicking along the clear waters of the Blanco River. The park's accessible trails and scenic views attract nature lovers year-round.
Blanco's historic downtown includes the Old Blanco County Courthouse, a restored structure from 1886 that now serves as a visitor center and event venue. Surrounding the square, you will find local shops and eateries showcasing Hill Country flavors, including a few spots where you can try some top-notch Texas BBQ. Try out Old 300 BBQ, one of the region's most visited joints serving up delicious smoked meats of all kinds.
Blanco is also recognized as the "Lavender Capital of Texas," with several nearby farms offering seasonal tours and products made from the fragrant herb.
Granbury
Granbury, located southwest of Fort Worth, is one of the most walkable lakefront towns in Texas. The town square, which centers around the iconic Hood County Courthouse built in 1890, is part of the Texas Main Street District and is renowned for its intricately preserved original buildings. The Granbury Opera House, another beautiful historic landmark, hosts live performances year-round, providing even more activities for visitors in this district.
Be sure to visit the Granbury Doll House Museum, as well as the reputed resting place of outlaw Jesse James at Granbury Cemetery. The number of notable landmarks in Granbury is truly impressive!
Lake Granbury is a major attraction for many, offering places to launch your boat, go fishing, or simply relax by the water. The sandy City Beach is a favorite spot for families, while guided tours on the lake provide insight into local history and wildlife.
See Another Side of Texas
Texas is home to many lesser-known towns that boast some of the state's most unique and intriguing attractions. From the remote desert landscapes of Terlingua to the charming historic districts of Goliad and Granbury, these towns offer a quieter and more authentic glimpse of Texas beyond its larger cities.
