Just an hour west of Austin, Johnson City is a perfect day trip destination. Whether you are interested in the story of LBJ, outdoor adventures, wineries, art or science, this area of the Texas Hill Country has a lot to offer.
Johnson City Day Trip Planner
- Distance from Austin: 48 miles West (~50-60 minutes)
- Best For: Families, Wine Lovers, History Enthusiasts and Outdoor Adventurers
- Top Attractions: Science Mill, Pedernales Falls State Park and LBJ National Historic Park
Johnson City Quick Pick Itineraries
Family Fun
Grab breakfast on the go leaving Austin and head to the Science Mill when you first arrive in Johnson City. Let the kids burn off energy while they engage in hands-on STEM focused exhibits and an outdoor Backyard Park. For lunch stop by Lady Bird Lane Cafe or Pig Pen BBQ for a kid-friendly meal. After lunch, hop on a guided tour or drive-through the Exotic Resort Zoo to see 45 wild animal species.
Hill Country Sip & Shop
Start your day with some retail therapy checking out boutiques in Johnson City's Historic Town Square. Stop for a bite a El Charro or Bryans on 290 for something a bit more upscale. Spend the evening popping into tasting rooms in downtown or sip wines and hangout on the patio at Carter Creek Winery.
History & Outdoors
Start your morning with a caffeine jolt from Johnson City Coffee Co. then dive into the town's history which revolves around the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon Baines Johnson. Visit President Johnson's boyhood home, before heading out to the LBJ Ranch to explore more. Stop for Southern comfort food at Hill Country Cupboard, then hit the trails at expansive Pedernales Falls State Park.
History
The town is named after the ancestors of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon Baines Johnson, and is home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. To learn about his roots, start in town at LBJ’s Boyhood Home and make sure to visit the Johnson Settlement, where Johnson’s grandfather lived during the Chisholm Trail Days. Then head 14 miles west on Highway 290 to explore the LBJ Ranch. When you arrive, pick up a map and free permit for a self-guided driving tour of the ranch in your own vehicle. For even more in-depth information, you have the option to purchase an audio CD to narrate your drive.
Attractions in Johnson City
From outdoor adventures to historical sites and boutique shopping and kid-friendly attractions, there's plenty to fill your day in Johnson City.
Science Mill: Located near the town square, this family-friendly museum filled with high-tech exhibits created to engage kids with STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) concepts. Kids love regular exhibits like Cell Phone Disco, Fossil Dig, Mind Ball and other hands-on activities. The Science Mill has a café and a great gift shop so you can easily spend half a day exploring.
Exotic Resort Zoo: Get up-close and personal with over 40 wild species. Drive yourself through the park or hop on a guided tour to learn more about the animals and feed them as they get close.
Pedernales Falls State Park: Spend some time exploring one of the largest state parks in Central Texas. With more than 5,000 acres, Pedernales includes 20 miles of trails, scenic views and plenty of cooling waters to splash around in. The park is great for families and offers hiking trails with different levels of difficulty.
Shopping on the Square: Johnson City's compact downtown makes it perfect for spending the afternoon popping between boutiques. Shop home goods and curated lavender products at June Bloom Lavender. Grace & Gratitude brings together multiple merchants and artisans so you can find something everyone will like. Find women's fashion with a bohemian vibe at The Haloed Hippie.
Where to Eat & Drink in Johnson City
Whether you just need a bite for lunch or want an evening out on the town, Johnson City offers many restaurants, wineries and breweries to find grub for your whole crew.
Bryans on 290: Try the best of Hill Country dining where Southern hospitality meets upscale local fare.
Carter Creek Winery: Experience the beautiful vineyards and delicious wine. After meandering through their picturesque vines, grab a bite at their on-site restaurant, Old 2090 Brewery & Restaurant.
El Charro: El Charro's classic Mexican dishes are not to be missed this as they're been a local and visitor favorite for over 20 years.
Fat Boy Burgers: Dig into enormous local Texas beef burgers paired with crispy fries and onion rings. If the weather's nice, take your meal out onto the Fatz Garten patio.
Hill Country Cupboard: This local staple has been serving up their famous chicken-fried steak for over 40 years.
Johnson City Coffee Co.: Get your morning started off right with a cuppa joe and small breakfast bites.
Lady Bird Lane Cafe: This casual cafe locted at the Science Mill serves soups, salads, sandwiches and wraps.
Nice N Easy: Sip on good drinks, try tasty bar bites and soak in the causal West Texas vibes.
Pecan Street Brewing: Dine on classic American fare and brews in a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere.
Annual Events in Johnson City
Annual events include the Blanco County Fair & Rodeo in August, Johnson City Jazz & Art Festival in October, Texas Wine Jam in November, and Lights Spectacular from late November through early January.
Learn more about this day trip destination at www.explorejctx.com or by stopping by their Visitor Center, 100 E. Main St. Looking for other day trips? For more day trip inspiration, check out our Hill Country guide.
