The Best Small Towns in Texas to Chill Out

Texas is one of the largest states in the United States, renowned for its vast and diverse geography. Considering how large it is, it is not surprising that there is so much to see, from the Rio Grande along the southern border to the vast Gulf Coast on its eastern shores. People come to Texas to chill out at natural destinations such as Big Bend National Park, the 15th-largest US National Park in the country. However, there are also cultural hotspots, like the Bastrop Opera House, where visitors can sit back and enjoy live performances. If you are looking to relax in Texas, visit one of these small towns.

Presidio

Guests to Presidio are typically nature lovers, and there are few better places to relax outdoors than Big Bend National Park. From Presidio, you can drive about an hour and a half to Study Butte, which sits just two miles west of the park. This hour-and-a-half drive is worth it if you want to experience unparalleled natural beauty. The park is a globally recognized nature destination where the Rio Grande passes through. Mountains rise alongside the river, and plains transform into desert, creating a lovely wilderness opportunity for visitors. Those with an interest in ancient history may want to drive an hour further east from the Study Butte entrance to find the new Fossil Discovery Exhibit, which showcases some of the many fossils discovered in the area.

Returning to Presidio, the reason this is a gateway to the park is that it provides access to the River Road. Called "The Most Scenic Drive in Texas," this stretch of highway extends through Big Bend while passing close to the Rio Grande. Those heading out for a relaxing, scenic drive will find few better options than the River Road. Those spending the night in town will enjoy the Riata Inn Presidio, which sits next to some of the most popular destinations in the area. It is easy to launch from the inn to Big Bend National Park and nearby Marfa, as well as visit Fort Leaton State Historic Site, a 19th-century fortress and one of the largest adobe structures in the state.

Marfa

Those who enjoy quirky attractions love the town of Marfa. One of the iconic sights in Texas is the nearby Prada Marfa installation, just a half hour outside of town. This replica of a Prada store has stood in isolation on the Texas plains for over two decades, intriguing visitors who hope for a charming photo opportunity.

Visitors should also make sure to visit the Marfa Lights Viewing Area. For over a century, residents and visitors have reported seeing unusual, ethereal lights in the distance. Intrigued visitors can head to the viewing site to spot these mysterious lights when they appear in the evening. Not far away, you can find the "Giant" Marfa Mural. This mural was created in honor of the movie "Giant" (1956), the final film starring the rising star James Dean. Massive hand-painted figures of Dean and other stars of the film make for yet another distinctive photo opportunity on the Texas plains.

Karnack

Visitors to Karnack typically enjoy the relaxing sight of Caddo Lake. Located just minutes away, the lake sits in a state park of the same name. Guests can launch into the water by canoe and paddle along the shores, or explore the trails winding through the grounds. Anglers can toss a line into the water to fish, and there are plenty of places to camp if you decide to spend the night.

If you are staying in Karnack instead, the Caddo Lake Hideaway is an ideal vacation getaway. Guests are just five minutes from Caddo Lake State Park and enjoy a cabin-style retreat with modern amenities. You can also rent kayaks from the property if you are heading out for a day on the water. If you want a true day of chilling out without having to look for the most sought-after spots around the lake, then look no further than Chill-Lax-N Boat Tours. These tours take guests on private, couples, and group tours to see some of the hidden gems aboard a 24-foot tri-toon boat. No paddling required!

Port Aransas

Port Aransas is situated on Mustang Island, making it the perfect coastal destination for relaxation and unwinding. IB Magee Beach Park is situated at the northeastern end of town, providing easy access to the beach. Guests can enjoy RV camping near the shore, or day trippers can walk the beaches and cast a line out from the Port Aransas South Jetty.

Relaxing times continue nearby at Roberts Point Park. Visitors come here for the observation tower, which affords unparalleled views of the ship channel and ideal opportunities to spot dolphins as they swim the nearby waters. A perfect day in Port Aransas includes a trip with Salt Devil Cruises, which takes guests out on a 30-foot Tritoon boat for dolphin and bird watching and the chance to see the island's most majestic scenery.

Bastrop

There are a few ways to enjoy the most relaxing vacation possible in Bastrop. About a half hour away, the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort is situated along the Colorado River and adjacent to the Lost Pines Golf Club. Guests can expect scenic suites along the river, live music, soothing times in the spa, rounds of golf at the nearby golf club, and even a 1,000-foot lazy river as a part of the resort's water park.

Closer to Bastrop is Lake Bastrop. Visitors can find parks on both the north and south shore. Both parks offer a variety of activities, ranging from fishing from the lake piers and kayaking on the water to hiking along the trails or even staying the night at any of the many camp sites. In town, guests can enjoy a calming night of live entertainment at the Bastrop Opera House. This venue showcases live theater performances, including popular shows like "Rent," as well as seasonal celebrations such as the "Rockin' Holiday Revue."

Wimberley

Wimberley is a small, cozy town located on the banks of the Blanco River. Relaxing days lie ahead for anyone who wants to go tubing on the river, although it is also popular among those who prefer kayaking or enjoying a day of fishing from its shores. Blue Hole Regional Park is another popular natural destination. This park is named after the Blue Hole, a natural swimming area filled by Cypress Creek, which sparkles with a memorable blue hue. This park is a relaxing spot to enjoy time in the water or go hiking before enjoying a picnic.

You might want to complement your visit to The Wimberley Inn + Bar. The Inn welcomes both guests and community members to its bar and swimming pool. You are sure to strike up a conversation with locals at the outdoor tables or while relaxing by the pool. And when the day is over, you can retreat to your room or sit alongside the scenic fish pond.

Fredericksburg

The primary attraction for those seeking relaxation in the area is the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, where a dome of granite rises above a landscape of trees and plains. Located just 20 minutes away, Enchanted Rock boasts hiking trails and rock climbing routes. Stargazers also enjoy pitch-dark evenings when the stars brighten up the night.

Yet there are plenty of ways to chill out in town. The Pontotoc Vineyard Weingarten is located in the heart of town and features outdoor picnic tables in addition to its tasting room, where guests can enjoy a glass of wine. Just next door, visitors to town can stay at the Itz Inn. A historic inn made of flagstone, the inn puts visitors close to the Shopping District. Guests can head just down the street to find uncommon vintage items at Farmhaus Antiques, featuring a broad selection of wall-mounted mirrors, candles, beauty products, and woven baskets.

Relaxing In Texas

There is so much to see and do in Texas, which boasts a natural beauty that makes for relaxing vacation days. From the banks of Caddo Lake to the Rio Grande as it flows through Big Bend, visitors can enjoy numerous natural sites to relax in the great outdoors. Yet, the towns nearby also feature quirky and cultural sites, such as Prada Marfa and the Bastrop Opera House, that are sure to delight. If you are looking for a place to chill out in Texas, pick any of these towns for your next stop.