← Back to the guideAn evolving guide to the county’s best. Explore at your own pace; keep what you’ve done.
Not sure where to start? Follow a day we’ve mapped out.
Coffee, the market, a long lunch, and the river. The classic Bastrop weekend, in order.
Get on the water early, dry off in the shade, and end with the bridge at golden hour.
A day built for the kids: water to splash in, snacks, and space to roam.
The Lost Pines, the river, and the trails that hold them together.
This is Bastrop's iconic 100-year-old steel truss bridge over the Colorado River, right off downtown. It's closed for a full restoration at the moment, set to reopen for walkers and bikes in fall 2026.
Skip the headquarters loop. The Scenic Overlook Trail off Park Road 1A is a ten-minute walk to the best view of the Lost Pines you'll get without backpacking.
The quiet Lost Pines park. No gas motors on the lake, and the Park Road 1C drive over from Bastrop State Park is the prettiest stretch in the county.
The western edge of the Lost Pines, where the pine forest finally gives out. Hike Riverside down to the Colorado, but save something for the climb back.
Put in above town and float a calm, easy stretch of the Colorado. The classic Bastrop half-day on the water.
Hardly anyone knows it's out here. Walk the bluff trail toward evening and you'll likely have the best river view in Bastrop to yourself.
Come in the last hour of daylight. The river turns gold under the old iron bridge, and the boardwalk is the best free seat in town to watch it.
Two shores on a warm lake, with boat ramps, swimming, kayak rentals, and campsites right on the water.
Where the county actually eats: counter spots, patios, and a few worth the drive.
A backyard stage, a full plate, and a crowd that knows the band.
Sausage links and brisket from one of the oldest pits in Texas.
Pay-what-you-can plates and a whole lot of heart, out in Smithville.
Small-batch roast and a patio, the morning regular's pick.
Local makers, Saturday mornings, and the goods you can only get here.
Produce, eggs, tamales, and makers on Chestnut every Saturday.
Rotating local makers and vintage, when it lands in town.
Galleries and working studios in a restored downtown building.
Stages, galleries, and the rooms where the town gathers.
Built in 1889, it's the oldest stage in town and still runs a full season. In the 1950s teenagers packed it as a hangout they called the Teen Tower. Most people drive right past it.
The county's story, from the Lost Pines to the fires, in one stop.
The handful of things you have to do at least once around here.
Galleries and shops on Main stay open late the first Friday of the month.
Guided weekend walks built for families, out at the river bluffs.