Known as the "Historic Triangle," Bastrop County includes Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville, which were voted three of the most historic small towns in Texas. Explore Bastrop County’s culture at the historic cemeteries and museums, or celebrate their vibrant community with the locals at one of many year-round.

Bastrop

Just a 30-minute drive from Austin, visitors will find plenty to explore in the historic town of Bastrop. Soak in the small-town feel with a walk down Main Street, on which you’ll find the Bastrop County Museum & Visitor Center where you can learn more about the town’s history. The historic buildings still standing on Main Street now house a variety of locally-owned shops, boutiques and restaurants. Find something to take home to remember your trip by at The Painted Porch Book Shop or Monarch Art Gallery, and dine on delicious dishes at local mainstays like Gracie’s, Maxine’s Cafe & Bakery or Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard.

For those looking to spend some time in the great outdoors, Bastrop is home to one of Texas’ many State Parks. Bastrop State Park is perfect for camping, hiking, biking and fishing. Check out McKinney Roughs Nature Park and explore from the treetops with Zip Lost Pines’ six zipline runs and multiple suspension bridges. 

Learn more about day trips to Bastrop.

Elgin

Located less than 20 miles north of Bastrop, Elgin is big on small-town charm and full of history. The redirection of a new railroad line in 1886 put the city on the map and allowed sustained growth through the early 20th century. Designated as an official Historic District in 1991, most of the buildings in Downtown Elgin were erected in the 1920s using brick from the local brick manufacturers. To learn more about the railroad’s impact on the town visit the Elgin Depot Museum housed in the historic Union Depot built in 1903.

With plenty to do throughout the year, join in on one of the community's events and festivals hosted in Veterans’ Memorial Park, like the Arts & Cultural Festival in May, the Watermelon Festival in July, the Hogeye Festival in October or one of the many others. While you’re in town, stop by Millie’s on Main for live music, cocktails and food trucks all housed in a former auto shop. Shop for something that’s pre-loved at NewBo Vintage, a bohemian-style thrift and vintage apparel store, or the Elgin Emporium, an antique shop with everything from furniture to knick-knacks. 

Smithville

Just 13 miles southeast of Bastrop, Smithville is a picture perfect small town and we're not the only people that think so. Capitalizing on the town's old architecture and rural feel, the 1998 film Hope Floats starring Sandra Bullock was filmed primarily in Smithville. Aside from Smithville's Hollywood claim-to-fame, the town packs a punch with plenty of things to do whether you’d prefer to explore the outdoors, try new restaurants and bars or shop till you drop.

Although it’s one of the smaller State Parks in Texas, Buescher State Park offers a serene spot to hike, bike or paddle on the Buescher State Park Lake. In town, you’ll be surprised by the amount of killer cafes, restaurants and bars packed into this quaint town. Stop by the Smithville General Store for a hot cup of coffee and to peruse a curated selection of local goods. It’s right there in the name at Comfort Cafe, a pay-what-you-can cafe serving up delicious comfort foods like pancakes and French toast along with a few other non-breakfast offerings. For a cold drink in the evenings try Charlie’s, a classic dive with solid drinks, a jukebox and a pool table, or Huebel’s Bier Garden, a no-frills, old-school watering hole with weekly Texas Hold Em poker where neon signs adorn the walls.

Learn more about day trips to Smithville.

Take a day to see Bastrop County just a short drive east of Austin on Hwy 71. Looking to explore more of Central Texas on your next trip to Austin? Check out more day trip ideas on the Insider Blog.