The 4 Best Small Cities in Texas

Did you know that Texas is the second largest state in the United States?

Also known as the Lone Star State, Texas has cities that range from cosmopolitan to charming and historical.

Texas is a mighty big place, and there is something to offer to everyone.

Lockhart

If you are looking for some good, old-fashioned Texas barbecue, head on over to Lockhart. Known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas, just outside of Austin, Lockhart is home to several barbecue joints that serve up heaping plates of barbecued meat with plenty of sides. Locals highly recommend the brisket and sausage from each of the restaurants — with or without barbecue sauce! Weather is warm and humid in the summer, and cool in the winter.

Photo via Flickr by kevin dooley

Franklin Mountains State Park — El Paso

El Paso is a vibrant Texas city with a bustling music scene and plenty of nightlife. Charming and luxurious hotels abound within the city, and you are never far from music venues and other attractions.

However, if you are feeling a need to step out of the city for a few hours and see some of the surrounding natural beauty, take a trip to the Franklin Mountains State Park. There are over 100 miles of hiking trails within the park, and this is a great way to get some serious exercise!

The rewards are well worth it, as you will see beautiful views of the city from the peaks. Bring plenty of water and a camera to capture those breathtaking views of El Paso. Temperatures can get pretty hot in the summer, and in the spring the wind can pick up, so it is advisable to hike and bike in the morning.

Wimberley

A little bit of heaven — that is how the local residents describe the town of Wimberley. About an hour outside of Austin, in the Texas Hill Country, this delightful little town is home to artists, writers, and musicians who enjoy the laid-back vibe.

Located at the confluence of Cypress Creek and the Blanco River, swimming and boating activities abound. Swimming in the famed Blue Hole is a must-do experience! In town, you will find plenty of art galleries and shops, delicious dining options, and lovely places to stay. During the winter months, visit the very popular Market Days event. With over 450 booths displaying produce, speciality items, and arts and crafts, you are sure to find a special treasure to bring home. Winters are on the cool side and summers can get warm and humid.

Port Aransas

When you are looking for a Texas beach, head south to Port Aransas & Mustang Island. This coastal area boasts over 18 miles of shoreline with lovely sandy beaches — perfect for a family vacation. Just outside of Corpus Christi on the Gulf of Mexico, Port Aransas can be accessed through the ferry system, or you can drive up from Corpus Christi on the causeway.

Folks who love to fish flock to Port Aransas for the numerous fishing tournaments. Festivities abound at these family-friendly tournaments. Summers can be quite warm and humid with occasional thunderstorms. However, the ocean is a pleasant temperature, and swimming is delightful.

Get out, explore, and enjoy these four small best cities in Texas!

Richard Collett