15 Amazing Things to do in Lampasas, TX
Discover the best things to do in Lampasas, Texas, from historic sites to outdoor adventures to natural springs! If you’re looking for a great place to explore and take in the sights, then Lampasas is definitely worth a visit. This small town offers plenty of things to do and see.
Located just an hour from the city of Austin, Lampasas is often seen as a road trip stop between Dallas and San Antonio, or a pit stop on a Austin to Dallas road trip, but Lampasas has plenty to offer for a fun day trip as well!
I love visiting this small, charming town in Hill Country, especially lunch at Storm’s and strolling around the colorful, historic streets. Get inspired by these fun things to do in Lampasas, Texas – a hidden gem in Central Texas!
1. Visit the World’s Largest Spur
The World’s Largest Spur is located in Lampasas- who knew?! This giant cowboy boot accessory stands tall at a height of 33 feet and weighs 10 pounds! The spur is made of steel, copper, and iron and features fun designs like a star and cowboy boot. Guinness Book of World Records verified the largest spur with official paperwork.
The location couldn’t be more perfect either – right off Highway 281 near downtown Lampasas with an easy parking lot to pull into. You literally can’t miss it! Head into the Rusty Spur Gift Shop in the same parking lot for some fun souvenirs!
2. Uncover Antiques at The Trading Post
The Trading Post is an antique and collectibles shop in downtown Lampasas and is a favorite of tourists and visitors alike. Dozens of vendors fill the space with a variety of historical items and locally crafted items as well.
Whether you are interested in clocks, figurines, glassware, furniture, ceramics, or jewelry, you are sure to find it here. Visitors love the variety of merchandise, reasonable prices, and friendly staff. The Trading Post is open 9am-5pm every day except Sunday.
3. Paint Pottery at The Cherry on Top
The adorable Cherry on Top is a hybrid ice cream shop and DIY art studio. Stop by to paint pottery or fused glass (walk-ins welcome) and then stay for ice cream! With 24 flavors available, you are sure to have trouble narrowing it down to just one scoop.
Cherry on Top is open daily for afternoons and evenings (specific hours found here) and you are welcome to walk-in. If you want to create, plan to spend at least an hour. Pieces start at just $8.
4. Take a Dip at Hancock Springs
This hidden gem is located in the heart of Lampasas, Texas and offers visitors a chance to soak in natural mineral springs. Hancock Springs is made up of a pool, bathhouse, and large park.
One of the main attractions at Hancock Springs is the historic bathhouse. Built in the late 1880s, travelers have been coming from all over Texas to soak in (and drink!) the healing mineral waters. Historic parts of the original bathhouse remain with crystal-clear turquoise water making for a beautiful sight.
If you’d like to try one of the best the natural springs in Texas for yourself, the Swim Area is open seasonally and is a refreshing 69 degrees year round. Natural springs pump thousands of gallons of fresh water through the pool each day.
5. Stroll through Hannah Springs Sculpture Garden
The beautiful Hanna Springs Sculpture Garden is home to an impressive collection of sculptures created by a variety of artists.
As you walk through the park along the path, you’ll admire the beauty and variety of each piece and how they each blend with nature. From abstract works to more traditional pieces that celebrate nature and wildlife, there’s something for everyone in this stunning outdoor gallery.
Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply looking for a peaceful place to escape into nature, Hanna Springs Sculpture Garden is definitely worth checking out!
6. Grab a Burger from the Iconic Storm’s Drive-In
If you’re a fan of Elvis Presley or just of quality burgers, then you simply have to check out Storm’s Drive-In. You can grab some delicious food without ever having to leave the comfort of your car or you can park and eat at the picnic tables.
Established in 1950, and originally named “Dairy Cue,” Storm’s began when the Storm Family observed that post-war Americans loved their cars and would likely enjoy ordering their meal and eating in them too. Elvis Presley was one of those that enjoyed frequenting Storm’s when he was in basic training at nearby Fort Hood.
The food here is top-notch, with everything from traditional burgers and fries to their popular Cordon Bleu burger. The family has stayed loyal to their roots and still process their own beef from finest cuts and hand slice their French fries. Elvis was also a fan of their strawberry shakes as well. Try one and you’ll see why!
7. Hancock Park Golf Course
The Hancock Park Golf Course is the perfect spot to spend the afternoon with your clubs. Established in 1945, the 18 holes here wind along Sulphur Creek within the native trees. The landscape provided a beautiful backdrop for a day of golf, and also a challenging course.
8. Admire the Street Art Murals
Art murals decorate many walls and buildings of this adorable town and they are such a joy to discover! Vision Lampasas is on a mission to tell the stories of this town, both modern and historical, and it has become a great success!
Discover the Boots Round Up at 411 S. Western, Generations at 302 S. Western, Postcard from Lampasas at 401 E. 6th Street, and Patriot at 405 N. Key Avenue, among others.
9. Stroll the Streets of Historic Downtown Lampasas
Our favorite thing to do in Lampasas is to stroll the friendly, historic streets. The colorful buildings are beautiful and provide the perfect backdrop to an afternoon of exploring this small town.
Watch for plaques outlining historical details of each building. Don’t miss the Humble Station next to the Keystone Hotel! Sometimes music events are performed here.
10. Discover the Lampasas County Courthouse
The historic Lampasas County Courthouse has been restored and sits prominently on the corner of the downtown square. The Lampasas County Courthouse is one of the oldest courthouse in Texas still in operation. It has been restored to its 1883 aesthetic.
The surrounding area is a Nationally Registered Historic District. Almost all attractions in this article are within easy walking distance of this courthouse so it makes for the perfect spot to park.
11. Check out the Historic Keystone Star Hotel
Located in the heart of downtown Lampasas, the historic Keystone Star Hotel is a gorgeous building to visit from the outside and inside. Built in the 1850s by the Gracy family, the Star Hotel served as a stagecoach stop for the Austin Stage. After sitting vacant for over 30 years, the hotel was purchased and is now undergoing renovations to restore its vintage charm and deep history.
From the moment you step into the lobby, you’ll be transported back in time with antique décor and original features like original floors and high ceilings. We wish these walls could talk!
Visitors are welcome to visit periodically during history tours as well as for special events such as intimate concerts and other community music events. Follow their Facebook page for up to date info on historical narratives, restoration projects, and open house events.
12. Wine Taste at a local Texas Winery
Both Texas Legato Winery and Pillar Bluff Vineyard call Lampasas home. Stop by either winery for a wine tasting with beautiful vineyard views and true Texas hospitality. Both tasting rooms are open Thursdays – Mondays.
Texas Legato Winery offers a 4-wine tasting, but if you buy the bottle, you can waive the tasting fee. Do you prefer a sweet wine like Sweet Peggy Sue or a drier choice like Eyes of Texas Rosé? Plan your visit ahead of time so as not to miss the all-you-can-eat Crawfish Boil in April!
Pillar Bluff Vineyard is a family-owned boutique winery with delicious merlots, cabernets, and more. If you plan your visit on a Sunday, prepare to have a wood-fired pizza from their brick oven with your glass – yum!
13. Visit the Lampasas County Museum
Open on Fridays and Saturdays, the Lampasas County Museum is filled with historical artifacts and stories about the long ago, but not lost, days of Lampasas.
From taxidermy exhibits to old bank safes and shoe shine stands, visitors will also find exhibits showing recreated rooms of houses with authentic artifacts and memorabilia. Carpentry tools from craftsmen are also a popular exhibit. The museum wouldn’t be complete without an exhibit dedicated to the mineral springs that first attracted the Native Americans and then the first settlers in the later 1800s who put Lampasas on the map as a traveler’s destination.
Musician perform here frequently, so keep an eye on their Facebook page with up to date schedules and artist line-up. They are sometime closed on holiday weekends, so check in advance before making a special trip.
14. See the Historic Lampasas Train Station
In 1882, the railroad came to Lampasas and brought with it travelers who wished to soak in the mineral springs to heal various ailments. The Santa Fe Syndicate built this building, promoted Lampasas as the “Saratoga of the South,” and transported visitors from the Old Depot to the Park Hotel near the Springs via mule car.
15. Cooper Spring Nature Park
This 25 acre park is filled with walking trails, open space, and plenty of wildlife to observe. Filled with native plants and plenty of birds and butterflies, it is the perfect place for a stroll or a picnic – or both!
Bonus Activity – See the Texas Eclipse in 2024
April 8, 2024, an eclipse path passes through Texas and Lampasas is at the center! For over 4 minutes, the sky will be dark as viewers experience the eclipse in totality. Don’t miss his rare event!
Things to do in Lampasas FAQs
Is Lampasas considered Hill Country?
Lampasas is located on the northeastern edge of Texas Hill Country and is a gateway to all the beauty that this area offers. This adorable small town was officially settled in 1850 and drew many travelers and residents with its natural springs with healing properties.
What is Lampasas known for?
Established in 1850, Lampasas drew settlers with its infamous beautiful and healing spring waters. These mineral waters can still be enjoyed at Hancock Springs. The military has played an instrumental role into the the development of Lampasas due to the proximity to Fort Hood.
Being on the edge of Texas Hill Country, Lampasas is an adorable and historic town with many preserved buildings, beautiful wineries, the mineral springs pool, and many parks with lovely walking trails. Storm’s Drive-In is a tasty place to grab a burger and you just might pull up to the same parking spot as Elvis did!
What else is there to do near Lampasas?
Lampasas is only a short drive from several other amazing places to explore! Head to Burnet, TX to check out the bluebonnet fields, hike to Gorman Falls at Colorado Bend, and check out the prettiest town square in Georgetown.
Lampasas, Texas has so much to offer visitors looking for a taste of authentic Texan culture. From exploring the historic downtown district and indulging in delicious local cuisine, to hiking the picturesque trails at Cooper Springs Nature Park or cooling off at Hancock Springs Pool, there is something for everyone in this charming small town. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Lampasas promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more!
