You’ll find Georgetown, Texas, just 30 miles north of Austin, but it’s much more than a “bedroom community” for the big city. Although it was once considered a small town, it’s now one of the fastest-growing small cities in the country. You’ll find more fun things to do in Georgetown than you can shake a rattlesnake at (not that we recommend shaking rattlesnakes).
From historic downtown Georgetown to beautiful nearby vineyards, there are options for everyone from wine connoisseurs to spelunkers, to thrill-seekers, to those who prefer their adventures to be a little more laid-back.
Downtown Georgetown, Texas
Home to the “most beautiful town square in Texas,” downtown Georgetown offers numerous must-see attractions, from the Downtown Splash Pad to the historic Williamson County Courthouse. There’s no better way to start your visit to Georgetown than by stopping at the town square.
- Historic Structures: Designed by Austin architect C. H. Page and newly restored in 2007, the historic Williamson County Courthouse is the perfect place to begin your journey. While you’re there, tour the Williamson Museum, which features exhibits and activities for all ages covering the history of Texas and Williamson County.
- Family Entertainment: Need to cool off after your walk? Beat the heat at the Downtown Splash Pad or catch a show at the Georgetown Palace Theatre, a former movie palace restored as a breathtaking live performing arts venue.
- Art Galleries: Find something new to hang on your walls or just broaden your cultural horizons at the Georgetown Art Center or the Estrada Garcia Gallery.
- Local Landmarks: Tour a historic chapel steeped in local lore at the Grace Heritage Center or find something to read at the Georgetown Public Library, which won a 2018 National Medal for Museum and Library Service!
- Family Shopping: Bring the kids or just rediscover your own inner child at All Things Kids, just one of the many amazing shops you’ll find downtown.
- Unique Attractions: No trip to downtown Georgetown would be complete without a dip in the one-of-a-kind lagoon at Blue Hole Park, the entrance to which is right off of Second Street behind Encantada restaurant, where you can also enjoy some delicious Mexican food with a spectacular view of the river.
A stroll through downtown Georgetown will give you an opportunity to appreciate some of the town’s amazing Victorian architecture and a chance to check out shops, boutiques, restaurants, and more.
What is There To Do in Georgetown and Nearby
Of course, there’s more to Georgetown than its beautiful and historic town square. When you venture a little farther afield, you can find all sorts of fun things to do in Georgetown and points beyond.
- Natural Beauty: With a history that begins in Flanders Fields during World War I, Georgetown has become the “Red Poppy Capital of Texas.” You can find plenty of the bright red blooms throughout the city, and don’t miss the annual Red Poppy Festival, packed full of music and other fun events!
- Beautiful Scenery: Grab a boat or toss in a line at Lake Georgetown. If you’d rather, you can always paddle the San Gabriel River. Got land legs? No worries! You can still enjoy the scenic waterways by hiking or biking along more than 10 miles of trails.
- Team-Building Opportunities: Looking for more of a challenge? Join your coworkers or a nonprofit volunteer group to participate in the Georgetown Challenge Course. Just be warned: You’ve got to book several weeks in advance.
- Unique Shopping: Of course, the to-do list in Georgetown isn’t limited to outdoor fun in the sun. You can check out countless unique local shops like Six Strings Guitar & Lounge and Nathaniel’s Custom Hats. Shop till you drop in the mall at Wolf Ranch Shopping Center.
- Beautiful Wineries: Wine connoisseurs have plenty of places to sample the fruits of the vine, including the award-winning Georgetown Winery and Baron’s Creek Vineyards on the downtown square. If you’re up for a short drive, Georgetown isn’t far from some incredible vineyards, such as Grape Creek Vineyards and The Vineyard at Florence.
- Local Food: While you’re having all this fun, you’ll need the occasional bite to eat and maybe even a cold beer. Enjoy a slice of pizza at 600 Degrees or some authentic Texas craft brews at Mesquite Creek Outfitters. For something a little more romantic, try a night out at Wildfire. None of that is quite what you’re looking for? Grab something sweet at Galaxy Bakery or cool off with a Hula Cowgirl Shaved Ice.
You’ll find plenty of sculptures and pieces of public art all over Georgetown. No visit is complete unless you snap a selfie with the statue of Williamson County’s namesake, “Three-Legged Willie,” across from the courthouse.
Off the Beaten Path
We’ve still only scratched the surface of all the fun things to do in Georgetown. From seasonal favorites to skydiving and beyond, you can find one-of-a-kind experiences to fit any budget and any interest within city limits or just a short drive away.
- Holiday Cheer: If you’re coming by during the holidays, you won’t want to miss the square at Christmastime, when the “most beautiful town square in Texas” becomes even more enchanting.
- Scenic University: Did you know the oldest university in Texas is right in Georgetown? It’s true! Take a turn through the campus of Southwestern University, and you might just want to stay and become a student.
- Subterranean Adventure: Want to get out of the sun for a while? Go deep underground at the Inner Space Cavern. While you’re there, try out the new zip line!
- Local Culture: Finally, what could be more Texan than watching some bucking broncos? Stop by in June for the annual Georgetown Rodeo.
Whatever you do on your trip, you’ll find that there are so many fun things to do in Georgetown that you’ll wish you lived here. Already live here? Then we hope we’ve helped to make your next few weekends a little less ordinary. There’s so much to do in Georgetown that you’ll never have a dull weekend again!
