Long regarded as the Barbecue Capital of Texas, Lockhart’s barbecue roots date back to the early 20th century and are still going strong. In the charming town of Lockhart, you’ll find longtime, storied places sitting alongside vibrant, new-school spots. Just a 45-minute drive from Downtown Austin, you’ll find fascinating history, cute boutiques, art galleries and of course a great restaurant and barbecue scene.
Restaurants
We’d be remiss if we didn’t start with Lockhart’s legendary barbecue scene. Kreuz Market is arguably the godfather of the city’s barbecue scene. Established in 1901 as a market and a smoked meats shop, it has weathered decades and the incredible smoked meats still stand the test of time. Smitty’s Market is housed in the original Kreuz Market building, and the owners are related. Smitty’s has a massive smoking room with a seasoned oak fire always ablaze. Get some prime rib, brisket, smoked turkey breast, and jalapeno sausage while you’re on site, and then pick up some meats to go for the road.
Perhaps the most famous from a name recognition standpoint is Black’s Barbecue. They’ve been featured in all the publications and on every TV show that claims to know the best BBQ. Their beef ribs are Flinstone-style, and it pays to get there early enough to get your choice of meats. Joining these iconic ranks is Barbs-B-Q, a woman-owned barbecue joint, serving all the classics with a twist. Barbs-B-Q has even garnered national attention with Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition in 2024.
For non-barbecue seekers, Loop & Lil’s Pizza serves up hand-tossed pizzas with creative ingredients, salads, beer, ciders and wine. American fare (sandwiches, fried chicken) and fabulous desserts are on the menu at Market Street Cafe. Homestyle Mexican cooking with a local and cozy feel can be found at the family-owned and operated La Cantera. This restaurant is inspired by Doña Mari, who started selling homemade tortillas from home in Lockhart nearly a decade ago, and strives to maintain the same standard of fresh home cooking.
Bars & Beverages
Start your day with a caffeine boost at Chaparral Coffee on the Downtown Square. Then, in the evening, head next door to Chaparral Cantina for cocktails and small bites in this inviting bar with desert, modern vibes. The Pearl is equal parts hole-in-the-wall and cocktail bar. Located right on the main drag, it’s a hometown bar with a wide selection of beer, solid wine, and craft cocktails. Check their live music schedule on the weekends and get an order of chicharron while you’re there. Stop by the divey Old Pal Bar on the town square for cold beer and homemade comfort food like fried chicken and drop biscuits.
Museums & Things to Do
Lockhart has a fascinating history to explore. Dive into stories of the Comanche people and other tribes of the Southern Great Plains, and pioneers and cattle ranchers making their livelihoods along the Chisholm Trail. Stop into the Caldwell County Museum housed in the old jail for pictures, stories, films and other historical information, plus a tour of the actual jail cells. Lockhart’s Dr. Eugene Clark Library is the oldest continually operating library in the State of Texas. Built in 1899, this magnificent building hosts many community events, including author readings, story walks and outdoor story time for kids. Catch a show at the Gaslight-Baker Theater. A historic theater that now puts on local theater and movies. Check out the theater’s events calendar to see what’s upcoming.
Step outside and get some fresh air at Lockhart State Park. Spend a nice day swimming in the on-site pool, drop a line in the water at Clear Fork Creek, and snap ‘grams at the waterfall. Enroll your kids in the exciting Junior Ranger Program, where they can complete interactive activities to earn a special badge. Harness the cowboy spirit in the Texas Hill Country during a guided horseback trail ride with Maverick Horseback Riding in Lockhart.
Shopping
In downtown Lockhart, you’ll find a selection of quaint, locally owned boutiques and shops perfect for popping in and out of, collecting a few souvenirs along the way. Stop into Best Little Wine & Book Shop for a curated bottle selection, local goods and a packed events calendar. At the pharmacy turned art gallery, Get Lucky Gallery, you’ll find art, curated goods, handmade homeware, and more from local and regional artisans.
Vintage and thrift fans will want to check out Fringe House Vintage for a curated selection of kitschy apparel and Field Stable Antiques for apparel, home goods and accessories.
Events
One of Lockhart's noteworthy events is the Chisholm Trail Roundup, the city's largest annual festival celebrating its part of the historic Chisholm Trail. Expect three sun-drenched June days of barbecue cook-offs, parades, live entertainment, a petting zoo, an old west gun fight, pig races, a carnival and more. Decidedly more in the present is the Texas Monthly BBQ Fest, an annual festival celebrating the best of smoked meats in the state of Texas with lots of food and fun events at local venues all over town.
To learn more about things to do in Lockhart, visit hellolockhart.com. Inspired to explore more of the hidden gems in the Texas Hill Country? Explore more Hill Country day trips a short drive from Austin.
