Local residents often refer to Burnet, TX as the hidden gem of the Hill Country. To help you select the perfect activities for your group, we’ve created a list of some of the attractions that make Burnet special.
15 Fun Things to Do in Burnet, TX
1. Longhorn Cavern State Park
Longhorn Cavern State Park features Longhorn Cavern, a Texas Hill Country wonder created over thousands of years by the dissolving and cutting action of water on the limestone bedrock of the area. The park is open daily except Christmas. The 85-minute tour covers 1.25 miles of underground caverns. There are also picnic areas, short hiking trails, a gift shop, and a deli lunch counter. For more adventurous spelunkers, ask about the Wild Cave Tours!
2. Vanishing Texas River Cruise
Enjoy the premier ecological cruise of Texas. Departing from Lake Buchanan in the Central Texas Hill Country, the cruise provides spectacular views of Lake Buchanan, the Colorado River, native Texas wildlife, waterfalls, world-class bird watching, and wintering bald eagles. Year-round kayak and canoe rentals are also available.
3. Spider Mountain Bike Park
Located on the banks of Lake Buchanan, Spider Mountain is home to Texas’ first and only lift-serve mountain bike park and only lift-served, year-round mountain park in the U.S. Spider Mountain Bike Park offers a variety of trails for all abilities. Bike and equipment rentals are available on a first come, first serve basis. Those who prefer hiking will soon have the option to ride to the top of the mountain and hike down a path reserved for pedestrians. Once you’ve had your fill of gravity-fueled thrills, sample our lake resort amenities where you’ll find lodging, camping, SUP and boat rentals at our private marina and more.
4. Austin Steam Trail Association – The Hill Country Flyer
The popular Hill Country Flyer runs on Saturdays from January – May and again in September and October. The train departs from the Cedar Park depot and travels to Burnet for a two-hour layover before returning to Cedar Park.
5. The Burnet Gunfighters
The Burnet Gunfighters present their popular gunfight before the train leaves Burnet for the return trip to Cedar Park.
6. Delaware Spring Golf Course
Delaware Springs Golf Course is one of 12 golf courses in the Burnet area. The course is an 18-hole championship public golf course and offers a pro shop, driving range, putting green, snack bar, and dining room. Its 17th hole is named one of the “1001 Golf Holes you Must Play Before You Die” by golf writer Jeff Barr. The course was also named one of Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play.”
7. Inks Lake State Park
Inks Lake State Park features 1201 acres of recreational facilities adjacent to the Colorado River. Located in the High Lakes chain (7 lakes) surrounded by granite hills, it makes a great day trip or weekend getaway. The water level of Inks Lake is usually maintained at a constant level allowing for year-round swimming, boating, scuba diving, and fishing. Paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks can be rented at the park store. On land, you can camp, backpack, geocache, play volleyball, picnic, or enjoy 9 miles of hiking trails.
8. Fort Croghan Museum & Grounds
Hours: Thurs-Sat, 10-5 from the 1st Thursday in April to mid-October. FREE ADMISSION
See pioneer log cabins built in the 1800’s furnished authentically with items used during that era. Visit the working blacksmith shop, a one room schoolhouse, an original stagecoach stop, syrup mill, and a rock house built in the 1850’s by a veteran of the Battle of San Jacinto. Also visit the two original buildings constructed by the U.S. Army when this site, Fort Croghan, was an active frontier fort (1849-1853). The museum is loaded with artifacts dating from Native American Indian era to the 1900’s recording the history of Burnet County and Texas.
9. Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park
Canyon of the Eagles is a 940-acre nature park and resort with guestrooms, RV, and tent camping featuring an observatory and 16-miles of nature trails for walking, biking, and birding. The private lakefront is ideal for waterfront recreation, and the 8-passenger boat offers 2-hour cruises on Lake Buchanan. Overlook Restaurant serves delicious food with Hill Country views.
10. Hill Country Motorheads Museum
With over 200 motorcycles in the collection, the museum regularly showcases more than 70 bikes of many brands from around the world. Interesting facts/ background information is shared for each motorcycle displayed. The museum additionally showcases an assortment of vintage posters and photos making it a nostalgic display of history. Those wanting to stay a bit longer can enjoy the man cave which includes a pool table, sofa, and TV.
11. Highland Lakes Squadron Commemorative Air Force Museum
The museum houses historical artifacts as well as a “working” aircraft hanger where WWII era aircraft are brought back to life. Specific exhibits include the front turret from a B-24 bomber, a cutaway radial engine of the type used in the AT-6/SNJ, a WWII machine for making dog tags, a WWII instrument flying trainer, and an air-to-missile. The B-24 turret is accessible, especially for younger visitors.
12. Reveille Peak Ranch
The ranch is a 1,300-acre outdoor event, education, and adventure center in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Whether you’re looking for some of the best mountain bike/ running trails in Texas, camping, or water sports, Reveille Peak Ranch provides an experience like no other.
13. Downtown Shopping & Eating
Visit Burnet’s Historic Business District with broad sidewalks that invite visitors to stroll the District. Immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant heritage on a walking tour including numerous historical buildings housing modern businesses. The District, bound by Polk, Pierce, Jackson, and Water Streets, is home to four buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, and numerous places designated by the City of Burnet as historical properties. Shop at the local boutiques and sample the local cuisine at various food/ beverage establishments.
14. Burnet Farmers Market & Crafts Market
Saturday mornings from 9am – 1pm from May 1-Nov 20 on the Courthouse Square. Organized by the Highland Lakes Master Gardeners, the market shares information on gardening as well as an opportunity to purchase farm fresh foods and handcrafted items.
15. Local Wineries
There are multiple award winning wineries within a short drive. Wedding Oak Winery, located on the Burnet Square, is housed in a beautifully restored historic building. Torr Na Lochs Vineyard & Winery sits high above the Colorado River Valley, overlooking Inks and Buchanan Lakes. Down in Hoover’s Valley, enjoy a view of the surrounding hills while visiting Perissos Vineyards‘ 16 acres of estate vines. Want to tour multiple wineries? More than just a van that takes you to wineries, Wine on 29 offers an elevated, curated, wine tour experience with a focus on wineries along 29.
