Embark on a Texan adventure as we unravel the charm of Dripping Springs, a hidden gem just outside Austin. Our Neighborhood Guide invites you to explore the rustic elegance, rolling hills, and small-town allure that define Dripping Springs. Famous for its local distilleries, breathtaking natural beauty, and a vibrant arts scene, this Hill Country haven has something for everyone. From the renowned Mercer Street to the enchanting Hamilton Pool Preserve, we'll be your compass through the best eateries, outdoor activities, and cultural hotspots.
SIGHTS & ATTRACTIONS
Dripping Springs is the destination to discover new outdoor experiences, indulge in a delicious meal, or visit one of the many wineries, distilleries, or breweries that call this slice of Hill Country heaven home. Just a short drive from Austin, this city is full of big adventure.
Hamilton Pool Reserve
A trip to the picturesque 200-acre Hamilton Pool Preserve will make you feel like you are being transported to another world rich with lush plants, and a variety of wildlife species. The pool, a geological masterpiece was formed by thousands of years of water erosion which created a collapsed grotto, the canyons and a staggering waterfall.
Dreamland
This art, entertainment, and music venue is filled with really rad art installations - Willy Wonka-inspired painted water tanks to a mosaic mural, covered pickle ball courts, a bar chock full of local wines, beers and ciders with self pour taps. There’s also food trucks, two open air live music stages and one of the most challenging mini golf courses in the state. Dreamland is perfect for family fun or a date night.
Reimers Ranch
A visit to this ranch will put you right on the banks of the Pedernales River where you’ll have 3 continuous miles of river frontage to explore. The 2,400 acres park gives you access to over 18 miles of trails, perfect for hiking and biking. After you’ve worked up a sweat, you can hop in the cool, clear river for some swimming and relaxation.
Texas Hill Country Olive Company
This Tuscan inspired villa is surrounded by over 15 acres of olive trees and in some of the most beautiful lands in all of the Hill Country. The Texas Hill Country Olive Company has been in business since 2008 and offers orchard and mill tours on Fridays & Saturdays.
Shop in the Historic District
The Historic District has a charming collection of boutiques along Mercer Street and Old Fitzhugh Road. Within a few steps, you can find vintage-inspired decor at Vintage Soul TX, stylish and unique clothes and jewelry at Starrs on Mercer, and lots more.
Hudson's on Mercer
They offer music lessons, music camps, and a recording studio to encourage budding and more established musical talent. At night, you'll find them playing live music, karaoke, or an open mic night show.
Jacob's Well
A 20-minute drive from downtown will land you in one of the best swimming holes around Texas. The chilly water in Jacob’s Well is deep, bubbling up from a cave system that stretches over 100 feet underground. Jumping from the cliffs above into the mouth of this ancient spring is popular with just about everyone during a Texas summer.
Pedernales Falls State Park
This picturesque park is one of the top attractions near Dripping Springs. It is based around the Pedernales River with various hiking trails and campsites.
WINES, SPIRITS & BREWERIES
Fun Fact: Dripping Springs, Texas is the Wedding Capital with 30+ venues within 15 miles.
Deep Eddy Vodka
Known for its’ super tasty and award-winning vodkas, Deep Eddy Distillery tasting room is the ideal spot for an afternoon cocktail. One of the most popular destinations to visit, the distillery is located right off of Highway 290.
Treaty Oak Distilling
Named after the massive and majestic 500-year-old oak that symbolizes strength and longevity, the ranch is a family and dog friendly destination. Treaty Oak selects the best ingredients for their selection of beers, and spirits that include bourbon, rum, and gin. There’s a little something for everyone at Treaty Oak - a gift shop, tasting room, artisanal cocktails on tap, yard games, a kids play area, and live music every weekend.
Twisted X Brewing Company
Chill out with a beer in hand on a covered deck or at an outdoor table overlooking the Hill Country. Twisted X Brewing Company brews high-quality, small-batch craft beers using the finest ingredients to make their selection of lagers, pilsners, and IPAs. If you aren’t sure which beer to go with, you can sample all the brews that they make at the brewery on a specially made flight paddle featuring 4.5oz samples.
Hawk's Shadow
The first thing you will see is a commanding view of the Lower Estate Vineyard, and the broad expanse of nature preserves, ranches and watersheds east of the Pedernales Falls State Park. Sample their finished wines in bottles, have a picnic, relax awhile or stay for dinner in the cellar.
Barber Shop
The iconic pole out front and large "Barber Shop" sign, may lead you to think that it's a barber shop, but it's actually a popular bar! It's the ideal place to drink Texas craft beers, wine, or hard cider while listening to some live music downtown.
Acopon Brewing
Just two doors down from Barber Shop, you'll find this brewery where you can sample British-style beers with Old English and Victorian names. The brewery is like the pubs in England where everyone is a friend and people hang out for a while.
Goodnight Loving Vodka
Enjoy good vodka at this speakeasy-style distillery. Try all their vodkas while hanging out in the 1960s-inspired tasting room or relaxing in the outside garden.
Bell Springs Winery
Visit Bell Springs Winery and experience their small-production wines, chef prepared food, and a visit that you will never forgot. Whether you stop by for a wine tasting, pairing experience, glass of wine, or lunch from our food truck, they always look forward to seeing you.
Dripping Springs Vodka
Visit the original distillery and the makers of the infamous Dripping Springs Vodka for an afternoon of sipping and relaxing. These folks know what they are doing when it comes to distilling; they were the 2nd distiller and the 3rd licensed Distilled Spirits Permit holder in the great State of Texas. The award-winning Dripping Springs Vodka and Gin is micro-distilled in small batches in copper pot stills. Each product is finished with pure, mineral rich Hill Country artesian Springs Water.
Salt Lick
Salt Lick offers many fine wines for tasting and purchase such as Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Farm to Market blends, Mourvédre, Syrah, Sparkling White, and the house BBQ RED and BBQ WHITE wines.
TIt also serves amazing barbecue, having been featured various times on TV and has been recommended by Bobby Flay for their Beef Ribs, and Duff Goldman for their BBQ Plate. There's ample indoor and outdoor seating and a giant BBQ pit in the middle of the indoor seating adding a smoky flavor to the ambiance. This is definetely a must-stop when you visit Dripping Springs!
Grawlix Cocktail Lounge
Well known for their great service and friendly staff in Mercer St, this lounge serves classic and specialty cocktails. It is reminiscent of a 1920's speakeasy or a classic comic book.
EAT & DRINK
Fun Fact: Dripping Springs founded in January 1854 by three families from Mississippi.
Dripping Springs has many great spots to grab a bite. From breakfast, lunch, and dinner, here area a few of our favorites spots!
Coffee and Dessert:
Le Muse | Mexican coffee and drinks
Almost Grown Play Cafe and Ice Cream Shop | Create Your Own Coffee Bar, Restaurant and Ice Cream
Drippin Donuts | Donuts
Mazama Coffee Co. | In-House Roasted Brews and Bakes
Breakfast:
Flores Breakfast Tacos | Mexican with Outdoor Patio
Lox, Box & Barrel | Gourmet Deli
Skulls & Cakebones Craft Bakery | Locally Sourced Craft Bakery
Crepe Crazy | Breakfast Crepes
Lunch:
Rolling in Thyme and Dough | European Bakery and Coffee House, Light Luncheon Fare
The Pizza Cave | NY Style Pizza
Oak Creek Cafe | Texas Comfort Food
Proof & Copper | Picnic Fare, Drinks & Live Music
Epicure | Seafood
Dinner:
Creek Road Cafe | Date Night Dinner
Hill Country Ranch Pizzeria | Casual Dining
Carmela's Pizzeria & Deli | Italian
Stanley's Farmhouse Pizza | Pizza, Brews & Wines
Homespun Kitchen & Bar | Farm-to-Table
Salt Lick | Barbeque