Georgetown, Texas is arguably one of the most picturesque towns in America
Hosting everything from Instagram hotspots to mysterious caverns that give outer space a run for its money (you’ll see). Georgetown is considered by many as one of the best places to live in Texas, and possibly, the whole United States. But it’s also a fantastic town to spend the day in, attracting more and more day-trippers with each passing year.
Where is Georgetown, exactly?
Where else but our wonderful, Williamson County? Georgetown is located 26 miles north of downtown Austin’s central business district and is centered around a historic square where, each year, upwards of 30,000 visitors flock to the town to take part in the vibrant, Red Poppy Festival.
As the seventh fastest-growing city in the United States, Georgetown boasts a population of 79,604 people as of the 2019 census. Perhaps this has something to do with the town playing host to Southwestern University, a private, highly-respected liberal arts institution established in 1840 that sits just a half-mile away from the historic square. The town is spliced with the North and Middle Forks of the San Gabriel River; approximately 8.42% of its square mileage is covered in water. Residents and visitors have plenty of opportunities to escape the heat with Georgetown’s numerous watering holes.
Where to eat in Georgetown
First thing first, we have got to talk about South Fork Fun, Food, & Brew. This one-of-a-kind venue is a local hotspot renowned for its live music, local food and craft brews, and open-air dining. Expect to taste-test from a variety of food trucks beneath the lights in the trees while kids enjoy the playground. The venue is nicely fenced in and dogs are welcome; it is a safe and friendly town favorite (with some of the best shrimp burgers you can find).
Next up, a newer eatery in town is one we are fond of for their fresh, ultra-healthy menu. Between the poke bowl and the avocado roll, Nancy’s Sky Garden has one of the most colorful menus you can find, along with a delicious drink menu that includes kombucha and a list of unique, hot teas.
Speaking of hot, we would be remiss if we failed to mention two special places in Georgetown to pick up a refreshing drink to start another hot day in Texas. We are big fans of Hydrate, a delicious and healthy cafe with two locations in Georgetown, offering smoothies, juice, and sandwiches. And if boba tea is your thing? It doesn’t get better than Adelyn Bakery Boutique. Don’t be fooled by the decadent celebration cakes and macaroons; this bakery also offers smoothies, Taiwanese boba tea, slushies, smoothies, and more.
Georgetown is a Cyclist’s Dream
Georgetown has fully embraced one of America’s favorite pastimes—cycling. All throughout the town, there are cycling trails that follow the river and take you exploring through diverse nature parks, where you can camp, swim, climb, and more. But before you head to the trails, you’re going to need a bike! Fortunately, Georgetown is home to two bike shops that are equally as welcoming for recreational bicyclists and competitive cyclists alike.
First on our list is Cyclewerx, a well-respected bike shop where you can purchase a bicycle that suits you and whatever terrain you will be exploring. Commuter bikes, electric bikes, mountain bikes, and kids bikes all aplenty here, along with a strong supply of safety gear so that you’re ready for whatever the trail throws your way. Not to mention, Cyclewerx also offers bike servicing, so that you never have to slow your roll. As a second (but just as worthy) option, cyclists in Georgetown are big fans of a special place called Bikeology, which offers properly maintained used bikes in addition to bike servicing.
To get you in shape for your big cycling journey, you may want to start with some indoor cycling classes. Enter, Georgetown Truecore, known for its reformer Pilates, barre, boxing, and cycling with Real Ryder bikes. Truecore is known for its small class sizes and tight-knit community. It is the perfect place to get your muscles in gear.
And now for a hodgepodge of places, you cannot miss in Georgetown:
Inner Space Cavern: A supremely preserved cavern that was hidden for over 10,000 years before the Texas Highway Department discovered it in 1963. Thousands of visitors visit the cavern year, which is as close as it gets to visiting Mars.
The Blue Hole: A turquoise lagoon on the South San Gabriel River bordered by limestone bluffs, and a favorite spot among locals for swimming and photographs.
The Quarry Splash Pad: A splash pad for kids to frolic featuring a water slide and picnic area.
Lake Georgetown: A reservoir along the North Fork of the San Gabriel River managed by the Forth Worth District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. A popular recreation destination for camping, fishing, and boating.
Downtown Historic District: Top sites include the Williamson Museum, Georgetown Art Center, the Palace Theatre, Berry Springs Park and Preserve, and Veteran’s Memorial Plaza.
Instagram Heaven: There are Instagram murals galore in Georgetown. You’ll find a great guide to them on Jesse Coulter’s blog.
No matter what you are into, Georgetown has something in store for you. Beyond cycling, walking, and taking photographs of the town, there are innumerable events all year long, from the Red Poppy Festival to the Georgetown Wine & Music Festival, and of course, First Fridays on Georgetown’s historic square. The community is bustling, romantic and creative and full of life, and there’s a little something for everyone.
