Lampasas should come to your mind if you’re in Texas and are trying to decide where to go for a good time with your loved ones or friends.
Explore the historical sites, outdoor activities, and natural springs of this lovely city, Lampasas, which is definitely worth a visit.
Lampasas, which is only an hour from Austin, is frequently used as a pit stop on a road trip from Austin to Dallas or as a stopover between Dallas and San Antonio, but it also has lots to offer for a great day trip!
The city often referred to as the “City of the Healing Waters,” is a charming gem nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State.
For your perfect tourist trip, here is the list of Fun things to do in Lampasas TX that will keep you thrilled throughout your vacation.
Fun things to do in Lampasas TX
1 Visit Hancock Springs Free Flow Pool
Begin your exploration of Lampasas with a dip in the historic Hancock Springs Free Flow Pool. This natural spring-fed pool, dating back to the 1800s, offers a refreshing escape from the Texas heat.
Vast numbers of people traveled here from all over Texas to bathe in the healing waters, with many even getting baptized. One look at the bottom of the pool proves just how fresh and unadulterated this water is. It may not have the smooth texture we’re all accustomed to underfoot, but you’ll feel cleaner than ever after emerging from the blue-green depths. Surrounded by lush vegetation, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely swim or a picnic.
2 Explore Downtown Lampasas
Stroll through Lampasas’s historic downtown district, where you’ll find an array of unique shops, art galleries, and charming cafes. Mingle with locals and ask them some questions about anything confusing you about the city.
Don’t forget to snap a photo with the iconic Keystone Square fountain.
3 Pamper Yourself at the Hanna Springs Sculpture Garden
Take a serene walk through the Hanna Springs Sculpture Garden, which boasts stunning sculptures and beautifully landscaped gardens. It’s a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
The Garden is a wonderful place to go stretch your legs and clear your mind. It is family and pet-friendly, and free to the public.
Each year Lampasas Association for the Arts hosts the Art in the Park Event. We curate a small group of artists and their work to come exhibit for a year. The sculptures from the previous year are moved out if they have not been purchased.
4 Learn About Local History at the Keystone Square Museum
Immerse yourself in Lampasas’s history at the Keystone Square Museum. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that shed light on the city’s past, including its Native American heritage and ranching history.
Named for the adjacent Keystone Hotel, the museum preserves period artifacts, such as a cypress-wood pipe used at Hanna Springs bathhouse and a card table from an early saloon.
Additional items include an 1880s bank teller cage, a pioneer ranch blacksmith shop, an antique doll collection, a 1911 death basket used for body transport in the days before ambulances, and a bolt-action rifle used during the 1870s Horrell-Higgins feud.
If you’re a fan of history, consider adding the Keystone Square Museum to your itinerary of things to do in Lampasas TX.
5 Go on a Hiking Adventure at Colorado Bend State Park
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you won’t want to miss Colorado Bend State Park. Just a short drive from Lampasas, this park offers hiking trails, cave tours (including the famous Gorman Falls), and opportunities for bird-watching and camping.
Marvel at the beauty of Gorman Falls, cool off in Spicewood Springs, fish or paddle the river, take a cave tour, and test your limits on 35 miles of hike and bike trails.
6 Taste Authentic Texas Barbecue
Texas is famous for its barbecue, and Lampasas doesn’t disappoint. Head to local joints like Young’s Barbeque or Storm’s Drive-In for mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and all the classic sides.
Dive into a new experience with food and allow Youngs BBQ to bring you something special. They have various options for every member of the family to explore.
Also, Read 15 Best & Fun Things to Do in Edinburg TX
7 Experience Wine Tasting at Pillar Bluff Vineyards
For a more refined outing, visit Pillar Bluff Vineyards, where you can sample a selection of Texas wines. A boutique family-owned winery, Pillar Bluff Vineyards was founded in 1999 as the 46th winery established in the state of Texas.
The excellent, hand-crafted wine produced in Pillar Bluff Vineyards’ garden is something they are proud of. The serene vineyard setting provides the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of relaxation.
8 Enjoy Watersports at Lake Buchanan
A short drive from Lampasas, Lake Buchanan offers ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities. You can rent boats, kayaks, or jet skis to explore the clear waters.
Lake Buchanan is very popular with boaters, campers, fishermen, and swimmers. People of all ages make the trip to enjoy everything the Texas Hill Country has to offer. One major benefit of being on a lake this large is that you’ll never feel crowded. There’s always plenty of elbow room on each of the Highland Lakes.
Lake Buchanan has a unique feature you won’t find at the other Highland Lakes. There are granite gravel shores along portions of the lake that provide an ideal beach for swimming, wading, and sunbathing.
Lake Buchanan is noted for its excellent striped bass and white bass fishing. It also contains under-rated largemouth bass and Guadalupe bass populations. As a watersport lover, there is much to enjoy at this lake.
9 Stay in Quaint Bed and Breakfasts
Make your visit truly memorable by booking a stay at one of Lampasas’s charming bed and breakfasts, such as the Inn at Lampasas or the Peabody House. These accommodations offer a cozy and personalized experience.
A visit to any of these will offer you the opportunity to capture the neighborhood of Lampasas at your fingertips.
10 Visit Lampasas County Courthouse
The magnificent Lampasas County Courthouse is situated in the Town Square. It is a well-known landmark in this little town. The prominent structure is incredibly scenic and looks lovely with a red-and-white color scheme.
Originally constructed in the Second Empire style in 1884, the courthouse has undergone meticulous restoration since then.
Particularly noteworthy features include the gorgeous clock tower and the limestone facade. The courthouse is worth exploring so you may take in all of its fine intricacies.
11 Visit Storm’s Drive-In Restaurant
Storm’s Drive-In Restaurant in Lampasas is somewhat of a legend.
While serving at Fort Hood in Killeen, many people, including the well-known Elvis Presley, are claimed to have eaten at this restaurant.
In 1958, Lampasas witnessed numerous appearances of the legendary Rock and roll singer pulling up in his Cadillac.
Back then, the shop was known as Dairy Cue. An old-fashioned burger and strawberry shake are considered to be Elvis’ favorite dishes.
Try a famous Storm’s Hamburger — or order up a plate of fresh catfish. The menu has been feeding folks for a long time.
At the restaurant right now, you may sample a choice of burgers, chicken sandwiches, delicious fries, ice creams, and shakes.
They have a cordon bleu burger that we particularly enjoy. Among the must-visit restaurants in Lampasas is unquestionably this one.
12 Visit the World’s Largest Spur
Who knew that Lampasas is home to the largest spur in the world? This enormous cowboy boot accessory is 33 feet tall, 10 pounds heavy, and stands tall! The amusing decorations on the spur, which is constructed of steel, iron, and copper, include a star and a cowboy boot.
The largest spur was officially documented and confirmed by the Guinness Book of World Records.
Also ideal is the location, which is close to downtown Lampasas and just off Highway 281, with a convenient parking lot. It’s literally impossible to miss! For some amusing mementos, visit the Rusty Spur Gift Shop in the same parking area.
13 Visit the Historic Keystone Star Hotel
Located in the heart of downtown Lampasas, the historic Keystone Star Hotel is a gorgeous building to visit from the outside and inside.
Built-in the 1850s by the Gracy family, the Star Hotel served as a stagecoach stop for the Austin Stage. After sitting vacant for over 30 years, the hotel was purchased and is now undergoing renovations to restore its vintage charm and deep history.
From the moment you step into the lobby, you’ll be transported back in time with antique décor and original features like original floors and high ceilings.
Visitors are welcome to visit periodically during history tours as well as for special events such as intimate concerts and other community music events.
14 Enjoy wildflowers at Cooper Spring Nature Park
Located in downtown Lampasas, Cooper Spring Nature Park is a wonderful place to visit for outdoor lovers.
This park is dedicated to preserving wildlife in the city and its neighborhood. The park is free to visit and is like an oasis in the middle of downtown Lampasas.
The sprawling nature park has several hiking loop trails, native grass and cacti landscapes, wildflowers, lots of butterflies, and even a bird sanctuary.
This is a great place to take the kids for an easy morning or evening walk. You can also often see deer in the park.
15 See the ducks at W. M. Brook Park
Another fascinating place that ought to be on your list of things to do in Lampasas TX is W.M. Brook Park.
Located right along the river, W. M. Brook Park is another great place to visit while in Lampasas. This park has a great playground for the kids and some great pedestrian suspension bridges across the River.
On a walk, you can see the ducks, geese, turtles, and fish swimming in the river. Visitors can enjoy a BBQ picnic at the park as well as go fishing in the Lampasas river stream.
The park also has many seasonal events and attractions. In summer the outdoor theater in the park holds concerts and other performances.
During the holiday season, this small park is beautifully decorated and has beautiful Christmas lights.
This is a great place to take family holiday photos without the crowds if you are in Lampasas.
16 Paint Pottery at The Cherry on Top
The adorable Cherry on Top is a hybrid ice cream shop and DIY art studio. Stop by to paint pottery or fused glass (walk-ins welcome) and then stay for ice cream! With 24 flavors available, you are sure to have trouble narrowing it down to just one scoop.
You are invited to wander in at Cherry on Top, which is open every day in the afternoon and evening. If you want to create, plan to spend at least an hour. Pieces start at just $8.
According to a vast number of tourist travelers, the best and busiest months for tourists to visit Lampasas, TX, US is July, followed by March and June.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lampasas TX
Where is Lampasas, Texas located?
Lampasas is a city in Central Texas, USA. It is situated in Lampasas County and is approximately 60 miles northwest of Austin.
What is the population of Lampasas, Texas?
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Lampasas had a population of around 7,800 people. However, populations can change, so it’s a good idea to check more recent census data for the latest figures.
What is the history of Lampasas, Texas?
Lampasas was settled in the 1850s and is known for its historic downtown area. It was once a popular spa destination due to the supposed healing properties of its spring waters. The city played a role in the cattle drives of the late 1800s and has a rich history associated with the Old West.
Are there any annual events or festivals in Lampasas?
Yes, Lampasas hosts various events throughout the year, including the Spring Ho festival, which is a week-long celebration with a parade, carnival, and other activities. There are also events like the Lampasas Trade Days, a monthly flea market, and the Lampasas County Fair and Rodeo.
What are the outdoor recreational opportunities in Lampasas?
The area offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping. Nearby, you can explore the beautiful Colorado Bend State Park, known for its caves and hiking trails.
What is the climate like in Lampasas, Texas?
Lampasas has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers are typically hot and dry, while winters are mild with occasional cold snaps. It’s a climate that’s conducive to outdoor activities for much of the year.
Is there a local school district in Lampasas?
Yes, Lampasas has its own independent school district, which includes several schools serving students from elementary to high school.
How do I get to Lampasas, Texas?
The nearest major airport is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Austin, which is about 70 miles southeast of Lampasas. You can reach Lampasas by car via US Highway 183 or US Highway 281.
Is there a local newspaper or news source for Lampasas?
Yes, the “Lampasas Dispatch Record” is a local newspaper that covers news and events in the Lampasas area.
