Dripping Springs VG Fall Winter 2022

Dripping Springs

Dripping

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Welcome to Dripping Springs

hether you are visiting for the weekend, new residents or opening a business, make sure to stop by the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau for information to guide you on the wonderful things to do in Dripping Springs e Visitors Bureau is located at the end of historic Mercer Street at 0 est Mercer Street.

Named the “ ateway to ill Country”, Dripping Springs o ers a small town feel in an ideal location. Surrounded by beautiful scenery and nature, enjoy the wineries, breweries and distilleries, local restaurants, historic downtown Dripping Springs and family fun events throughout the year.

Make your first stop the Visitors Bureau where President and CEO Pam Owens, Brand Manager Samantha arghe, or one of the many wonderful volunteers help you plan out your must see spots across Dripping Springs. nder the same roof, Chamber of Commerce CEO Susan imball and her sta are a great resource for new businesses.

e town features many wonderful outdoor sites to visit for events, hiking, birding and biking including Dripping Springs anch Park, ounders Park and estcave Outdoor Preserve.

Visit the historical sites including e Pound ouse and the Pump Station on Mercer Street or shop till you drop at evel ilde and Starrs on Mercer Depending on when you visit check out the Brewers estival in March, ounders Day celebration in April, the air odeo in May, the Songwriters estival in October and Christmas on Mercer in December

Dripping Springs has many casitas, hotels, bed breakfasts, cabins and inns to stay in whether you’re on a family trip or a romantic getaway. “ e promote year round tourism for those visiting our community”, Owens says, “ hether you’re here for the week, a wedding or a lifetime, you’re never going to run out of things to do.” earn more at DestinationDrippingSprings. com or download the Destination Dripping Springs app for trip planning, events, live music and local businesses to visit ollow the Visitors Bureau on acebook DestinationDrippingSprings and Instagram DestinationDripping.

Pam Owens (right) is the President and CEO of the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau. Samantha Larghe (left) is the DSVB Brand Manager.

Eat

Bringing food to the forefront

Food in Dripping Springs is anything but an afterthought.

e Gateway to the Hill Country is home to dozens of local, culinary artisans, producing a variety of fresh and homemade provisions. Many of these are featured in the Dripping Springs Farmers Market: the top-ranked farmers market in Texas, according to the American Farmland Trust. Others are carried and used by local restaurants in the area.

Dos Olivos Market, a marketplace and restaurant in downtown Dripping Springs, carries a variety of products from producers throughout the Hill Country and beyond. For the business, as for many others in the region, shopping locally is a way of helping other small and family-owned businesses.

“Quite simply, we strive to connect top producers of quality wines, beers and gourmet foods with customers that are searching for unique and authentic experiences,” its website reads. “We love to showcase Texas’ independence and creativity in its original artisan products, and… we have reached out and extended to bring exceptional products

DOS

from Spain whose producers have a familiar approach to quality, family and distinction.”

Although Dos Olivos just opened in Dripping Springs in 2022, its local roots run deep.

“When we were rst looking to start the business, Dripping Springs was always the rst place we thought of,” says partner Rebecca Varela. “We have a ranch here in the area that’s been in the family for a while, so we always wanted to come in the area, but we just didn’t nd a space until now. It’s our fourth location, but our rst priority.”

Varela says she thinks the new location has been a great success thus far, tting in seamlessly with the Dripping Springs culinary scene.

“We came in at the perfect moment where a lot of things are popping up and more restaurants are popping in,” she explains. “Right now, we’re lling a gap in the market with our happy hour and lunch menu; our brunch and Sunday brunches are also something you don’t really see in the area. We have a lot of things you won’t necessarily nd anywhere else.”

Some of those things include daily wine tastings, Spanish-Texan cuisine and an unexpectedly large patio with a scenic view of the Hill Country.

“We’ve really achieved that homey, friendsand-family atmosphere,” Varela said. “It’s old world tradition with Texas charm.”

But Dos Olivos is not the only restaurant in town with a view; e Driftwood Bistro certainly gives it a run for its money with its location at the award-winning Driftwood Estate Winery.

e bistro, a rustic spot with mostly outdoor seating, is all about the ambiance.

“We really let Mother Nature do the work out here,” says owner Mark Sewell, referring

to the restaurant’s hillside location. “We’re not going for a fancy or high-end, ne-dining experience. We want people to be able to come out in ip ops and shorts, have really good wine and really good food.”

Every meal at e Driftwood Bistro is created to create a sense of relaxation, serving globally-inspired comfort food.

“We want people to have food that tastes good, isn’t too weird but gives them the opportunity to try something new without a bunch of ingredients they can’t pronounce,” Sewell said. “We might dress up the presentation, but nothing is something most people wouldn’t eat. One example is our ribeye quesadilla; we’ve also served croquettes monsieur (French street food), chilled ai

noodles and an open-faced stu ed avocado with marinated chicken (which is Chilean in uenced).”

In addition to its unique o erings, e Driftwood Bistro also strives to set itself apart with exceptional service, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment.

“As a company… we try to focus on good food, good service, and being able to provide that on a consistent basis,” Sewell said. “We let the experience do the talking, and after four years of doing business, people just keep coming back.”

e Driftwood Bistro’s involvement in the community doesn’t hurt either. Like so many Dripping Springs businesses, the bistro is a frequent donor to churches, schools and other nonpro t organizations.

“It’s part of being the community,” Sewell explained. “ e community helps us grow; we, in turn, want to help the community grow.”

Community is a common theme for Dripping Springs restaurants, including Alice’s Restaurant at Treaty Oak Distilling.

“ ere really is a sense of community here, coming together for common events,” said Carolyn Calhoun, social brand manager for Treaty Oak. “It’s very engaging, very familyoriented.”

Alice’s, which ts over 3,000 people in its indoor and outdoor spaces, frequently hosts the community through live music and events. But events and music aside, its Texas barbecue and comfort food is more than enough to draw in the masses.

“We started out with southern cooking in general, and it just kind of evolved,” said Calhoun. “Barbecue was one of the biggest things to hit the community, and we were really at the forefront of the barbecue craze in Texas in 2019. We’re always innovating when it comes to food.”

ALICE’S RESTAURANT

DRIFTWOOD BISTRO

Coffee & Breakfast

Hill Country Sweet Treats

ill Country anch Sweet Shop is the newest locally owned and operated stop for sweets and treats. “ e are not just a bakery, we are a sweet e perience,” said owner Mark Sewell. “ e wanted to create a fun place guests could visit and enjoy a variety of di erent candies and desserts.” Browse the cases for cakes, brownies, pastries, gourmet marshmallow, cookies, cupcakes, cheesecakes, and so much more. Spend some time looking through the whimsical selection of nostalgic candy, chocolates, and packaged treats. Breakfast items and co ee are available throughout the day.

Skull & Cakebones

e ill Country’s first plant based bakery, Skull Cakebones, is a wonderful place to stop and pick up a quick bite to eat. Skull Cakebones has an e tensive selection of breakfast items from Blue Com pancakes to breakfast bowls to more typical bakery staples like cinnamon rolls and bagels. e bakery focuses on all natural products that are vegan, non MO and incorporate local avors.

or an “old Dripping Springs” feel try Oak Creek Cafe, a traditional southern style diner where local veterans and old timers go for breakfast. Traditional comfort food, egg omelets, pancakes, farm raised catfish, “Bama fries” topped with chili cheese, and bacon, ribeye steaks and a salad bar.

Abby Jane Bakeshop

Inside of the Barton Springs Mill facility is the Abby ane Bake shop. eir goal is to make baked goods from heritage grains grown in Te as and milled in Dripping Springs. ou can even watch the mill workers through a nine foot wide window that leads from the bakery to the mill. Abby ane o ers a regular menu of breads, pastries, pi a, sandwiches, grain salads, treats and sweets.

Mazama Coffee

ocated in the heart of downtown Dripping Springs, Ma ama is a rela ed, sit down or take out co ee shop that perfectly encapsulates the Mercer Street vibe. ere is a quiet “ e room” inside the shop for people who’d like to work away from home with free wi fi, of course or you can just enjoy the community atmosphere in the cafe. ere’s also a shady courtyard where well behaved dogs are welcome. Ma ama “roasts, bakes, and brews” in house daily, o ering a variety of quality co ee and tea beverages, plus breakfast, lunch and baked goods.

Thyme &

e grande dame of the food scene in Dripping Springs, olling in yme and Dough was started in 200 by abienne Bollom, a professionally trained European baker. As you can imagine, Bollom’s bread and baked goods are out of this world delicious, and her ha elnut co ee, especially, is marvelous. ey also have a second location with a drive thru at the comer of it hugh oad and anch oad 12.

EDG Coffee

ED Co ee has a simple but significant goal. ey want to make sure their co ee benefits everyone from the farmer to the consumer. ey have their own farm in Nicaragua that pays farmers nearly 0 above the national minimum wage. ey also care about quality and roast all of their small batch co ee in house. ou can show up at their new location on ighway 2 0 west of Dripping Springs and get breakfast and a cup of oe or you can sign up for their subscriptions to have the grounds sent right to your house.

Food & Drink

ALMOST GROWN PLAY CAFE

18901 Hamilton Pool Rd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-761-4622 almostgrownplaycafe.com

CHICKEN EXPRESS

230 Hwy 290 East

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-2035 chickene.com

CHICKFILA

165 Hargraves Drive

Austin, TX 78737 512-551-2200 CFABelterra.com

CRIMSON CREEK SMOKEHOUSE

2250 E. Hwy. 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-786-6626 crimsoncreekbbq.com

DOS OLIVOS MARKET

12680 W. US 290 Suite 110

Austin, TX 78737 956-621-2996 losolivosmarkets.com

THE DRIFTWOOD BISTRO

4001 Elder Hill Rd

Driftwood, TX 78619 737-414-0222 thedriftwoodbistro.com

EDG COFFEE

2001 W US Hwy 290

Dripping, TX 78620 256-929-5585 edgcoffee.com

EPICURE MARKET

1025 Cannon Drive, Ste 105

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-7300 epicuretx.com

FITZHUGH BREWING

15435 Fitzhugh Rd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-657-8749

fitzhughbrewing.com

FLORES MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2440 E. Hwy 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-2221 floresmexican.com

FREEBIRDS WORLD BURRITO

12680 US 290, STE 230

Austin, TX 78737 512-501-6447 freebirds.com

GET ALONG GRILL

333 Hwy 290 E Suite 437

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-829-4300 getalonggrill.com

HAYS CITY STORE

8989 FM 150 West Driftwood, TX 78619 512-722-3905 hayscitystoretx.com

HILL COUNTRY RANCH DINING & TAVERN

598 US 290, Ste 250

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-9697 hillcountryranchpizzeria.com

HILL COUNTRY RANCH SWEET SHOP

2001 US Hwy 290 West #101

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-739-0052 hcrsweetshop.com

HOMESPUN KITCHEN & BAR

131 E Mercer St

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-829-4064 homespunkitchenandbar.com

IHOP DRIPPING SPRINGS

165 Hargraves #100 Austin, TX 78737 512-902-1174

JERSEY MIKES SUBS

165 Hargraves Dr, Ste M500

Dripping Springs, TX 78737 512-291-7369 jerseymikessubs.com

JESTER KING BREWERY

13187 Fitzhugh Rd

Austin, TX 78736 512-661-8736 jesterkingbrewery.com

LE VACHER

136 Drifting Wind Run

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-337-6977 levachertx.com

MAZAMA COFFEE CO. + ROASTERY

301 W Mercer St, Ste B Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-200-6472 mazamacoffee.com

MCDONALD’S RESTAURANT

333 E. Hwy 290, Bldg A

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-9920 mcdonalds.com

OAK CREEK CAFE

660 Hwy 290 W

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-829-4593 facebook.com/oakcreekcafeds

PIG PEN BBQ

301 Hwy 290 W

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 804-216-5419 pigpenbbq.com

ROLLING IN THYME & DOUGH

333 Hwy 290 W

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-0001 thymeanddough.com

THE SALT LICK

18300 FM 1826

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-894-3117 saltlickbbq.com

SPOON AND FORK KITCHEN 166 Hargraves Dr Austin, TX 78737 512-599-5428 spoonandforkkitchen.com

SQUARERUT KAVA BAR 164 Belterra Village Way Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-904-0204 squarerut.com

SUDS MONKEY BREWING 12024 West Highway 290 Austin, TX 78737 512-222-3893 SudsMonkeyBrew.com

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY OLIVE CO 2530 W Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-607-6512 texashillcountryoliveco.com

THUNDERCLOUD SUBS 598 E Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-4400 thundercloud.com

TILLIE’S RESTAURANT & BAR 3509 Creek Rd. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-2633 tilliesdrippingsprings.com

TOOTIE PIE CO. & THE CAKE PLATE 3992 E Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-263-9305 tootiepieco.com

TORCHY’S TACOS 166 Hargraves Drive Austin, TX 78737 737-717-6951 torchystacos.com/location/belterra

TRATTORIA LISINA

13308 FM 150 W

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-894-3111 trattorialisina.com

TREATY OAK DISTILLING

16604 Fitzhugh Rd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-400-4023 treatyoakdistilling.com

TURCOTTE BUTCHERS AND DELICATESSEN

100 Commons Rd Suite 9

Dripping Springs, TX 78610 603-438-5922 Turcottebutchers.com

VERDE’S MEXICAN PARRILLA 16018 Hamilton Pool Rd Austin, TX 78738 512-263-0500 verdesmexican.com

VISTA BREWING

13551 FM 150

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-766-1842 vistabrewingtx.com

WELL YEAH CAKES

28109 Ranch Road 12

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-2042 facebook.com/wellyeahcakes

WHATABURGER

598 E HWY 290, Ste 500 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-1280 whataburger.com

Stay

No place be er to stay than Dripping Springs

When it comes to places to stay in the Hill Country, no one does it better than Dripping Springs.

What separates the Dripping Springs area from other locales is not only the quality of the places but also the wide variety of options available to guests. From staying in the city to out in the country or from simple hotel service to RV-park living, there is a place for everyone.

One of the more established resorts in the area is Camp Lucy. Famous for Ian’s Chapel, a church building imported from Vietnam, Camp Lucy’s expansive landscape is full of eyecatching buildings.

“Camp Lucy has the most striking architecture due in great part to the antiques and Vietnamese buildings that were imported to create this resort,” co-owner Kim Hanks says. “Where the magic really takes shape is in the hands of our world-class employees who work together to create the famous Camp Lucy Experience each day. We have something for everyone whether it be leisure travel, a corporate retreat, wedding and everything in between. Pairing that with unique design and

JERRY HAYES PHOTOGRAPHY

JERRY HAYES PHOTOGRAPHY

CAMP LUCY

CAMP LUCY

delicious cuisine, it’s quite a combination.”

From luxurious in-house amenities to outdoor amenities such as the resort pool, restaurant and bar, hiking trail and re pit, Camp Lucy creates a phenomenal experience for wedding parties, event attendees and any and all other visitors to Dripping Springs. is experience is only enhanced by its proximity to local shops, businesses and attractions.

“Camp Lucy is nestled amongst countless wineries, distilleries and breweries,” Hanks says. “ ere are also outstanding parks, artisans and interesting independent shops all around us. ere is much to see, taste and do once you arrive on property.”

“We match new and exciting activities with a sense of southern hospitality and comfort from the second a guest enters the Camp Lucy gates,” she added.

While some might enjoy the full Dripping Springs experience, others simply want to get away. For them, Harrod’s Hill Country Hideaway is the perfect lodging destination. Opened in May, Harrod’s Hill Country Hideaway o ers vacation cottage rentals that surpass the standard stay.

“We went out of the way to pay attention to detail,” says Monte Harrod, co-owner of Harrod’s Hill Country Hideaway. “ e homes are really nice, luxurious, and rst class everything from the tile shower and bathroom to the xtures to the king size bed. We went above and beyond to not provide something that was basic.”

Harrod’s Hill Country Hideaway gives its guests plenty of room to enjoy the peace and quiet of the outdoors. Amenities include a king bed, sleeper sofa, shower, co ee bar, refrigerator, microwave, patio/ deck, kitchen, bathroom, washer and dryer in every room.

“We tried to create something that was a little more private,” Harrod said. “ is way people feel like they are truly experiencing the Texas Hill Country and not just a big lot with houses stacked on top of each other.”

Another non-traditional choice just opened up for Dripping Springs visitors with the opening of e Fitz RV Resort in April. A high-end RV resort in the middle of the Hill Country, e Fitz has some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the area — what they describe as “pure Hill Country.”

“It’s a beautiful park, and [guests] love the sunsets,” says Jill Fredenburg, co-owner of the Fitz. “Our motto is ‘Slow down and take in the sunset.’”

With amenities such as a community center, repits, a dog park, showers, bathroom facilities, laundry machines and more, e Fitz o ers everything needed for a RV trip, while still allowing visitors to enjoy and commune with the nature around them.

“Our overlook observation deck o ers views of the hill country and sunset that are truly special and worth the price of admission,” Fredenburg says. “Our proximity to state parks, breweries, wineries, and wedding venues puts us in the hot spot of what makes Dripping Springs, Dripping Springs.”

HILL COUNTRY HIDEAWAY

Lodging & RV

3 DAWG NIGHT

509 Cottonwood Creek Dr

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-589-4433 3dawgnite.com

THE ALEXANDER AT CREEK ROAD

6730 Creek Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 866-515-1142 thealexanderatcreekroad.com

ARBOR HOUSE OF DRIPPING SPRINGS

931 Sycamore Creek

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 281-923-7308 arborhouseofds.com

ASANTE LODGING & EVENTS

16580 Fitzhugh Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-829-1046 stayasante.com

BEST WESTERN JOHNSON CITY

INN

107 South Hwy. 281 at Hwy. 290 Johnson City, TX 78636 830-868-4044 bestwesternjohnsoncity.com

CAMP DAVID RETREAT

4451 McGregor

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-560-3238 campdavidretreat.com

CAMP LUCY RESORT

3509 Creek Rd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-4400 camplucy.com

CANYON ROAD OLIVE RANCH

218 Canyon Road

Johnson City, TX 78636 214-907-4603 oliveranch.org

CARTER CREEK WINERY RESORT & SPA

4064 US Highway 290 Johnson City, TX 78636 877-232-0138 cartercreek.com

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

1002 Rob Shelton Blvd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-2897 marriott.com/AUSDI

DEER RUN BED AND BREAKFAST

20 Long Creek Road

Austin, TX 78737 512-633-5595 deerrunbandb.com

DRIPPIN’ INN

304 Mercer Street

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-750-5755 facebook.com/drippininn

FALL CREEK VINEYARDS

18059A FM 1826

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-858-4050 fcv.com

HARROD’S HILL COUNTRY

HIDEAWAY

2193 Harmon Hills Rd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-878-9151 harrodshillcountryhideaway.com

HILL COUNTRY CASITAS

7400 McGregor Ln

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-829-1558 hillcountrycasitas.com

HILL COUNTRY PREMIER

LODGING

3 Palos Verdes Drive Wimberley, TX 78676 512-847-7460 hillcountrypremier.com

HILLSIDE ACRES RETREAT 4032 RR 3232

Johnson City, TX 78636 830-868-7515 hillsideacresretreat.com

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS

333 Hwy 290 E, Suite 500

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-0280 hiexpress.com

HOMESTEAD AT THE DRIPPING SPRINGS

500 Mercer St

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-4547 dshomesteadbandb.com

I LOVE DRIPPING SPRINGS VACATIONS

2400B W Hwy 290 Suite 4 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-640-7941 ilovedrippingspringsvacations.com

LUCKY ARROW RETREAT

3600 Bell Springs Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-400-4197 luckyarrowretreat.com

MERCER DANCEHALL CABINS 23490 Ranch Road 12 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.mercerdancehall.com

THE MERLOWE

13555 Nutty Brown Road

Austin, TX 78737 512-940-7797 merlowe.com

MT. GAINOR INN

2390 Prochnow Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-0982 mtgainorinn.com

MYSTIC SKY RANCH

5818 Ranch Road 165

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 830-833-0799 mysticskyranch.com

NEST VACATION RENTALS

1503 Spring Garden Rd

Austin, TX 78746 512-422-8503 nestvr.com

OUTPOST MOTEL 26200 RR 12 S

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-0052 OutpostMotelTX.com

REVIVAL DSTX 102 Bluff St

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-565-5064 revivaldstx.com

RUSTX RANCH

3607 Lone Man Mountain Rd. Wimberley, TX 78676 512-766-8641 rustxranch.com

SLEEP INN & SUITES

2720 East US Hwy. 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-2400 choicehotels.com/texas/drippingsprings/sleep-inn-hotels/txe80

SONESTA BEE CAVE AUSTIN 12525 Bee Cave Parkway Bee Cave, TX 78738 512-483-5915 sonesta.com/sonesta-hotels-resorts/ tx/bee-cave/sonesta-bee-cave-austin

STAR HOUSE BED AND BREAKFAST

3230 Ranch Road 165

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-689-6950 starhousebandb.com

TYROSA RANCH  DRIPPING SPRINGS LODGING & RETREAT 775 Pioneer Trail Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-222-8481 tyrosaranch.com

THE YURTOPIAN DRIPPING, LLC 7000 McGregor Lane

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-720-0405 theyurtopian.com

RV PARKS

COTTONWOOD CREEK RV PARK 2951 RR 165

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-0321 cottonwoodcreekrvpark.com

DRIPPING SPRINGS RANCH PARK

1042 Event Center Drive

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-2390 drippingspringsranchpark.com

DRIPPING SPRINGS RV PARK 250 Windy Hills Rd. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-649-8913 dsrvpark.com

THE FITZ RV RESORT 6990 West Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-923-9125 fitzrv.com

HENLY RV PARK

710 Henly Loop

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-660-1273 henlyrvpark.com

SUNSET RV RESORT 16910 Hamilton Pool Road Austin, TX 78738 512-632-7878 sunsetrvresort.com

Shop scene diversifies in Dripping Springs

As Dripping Springs continues to grow and diversify, so too does its shopping scene.

In what was once a sleepy little town, stores of all kinds have popped up. In pockets along Mercer Street and Belterra, in strip malls and stand alones, locals and visitors can find clothing, jewelry, home goods and much more. No matter the occasion, the shops in Dripping Springs — and nearby Driftwood — have got you covered.

Many of Dripping Springs’ signature stores and boutiques are located on or around Mercer Street, creating a quaint community in the heart of historic Dripping Springs.

“Mercer Street was home to some of the first businesses in Dripping Springs and many of the storefronts have remained unchanged for decades,” says Pam Owens, president and CEO of the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau. “Downtown, you will find unique and eclectic shops and businesses full of energy, entertainment and accessibility for folks of all ages.”

Vintage Soul TX, a women’s boutique established in 2012, is right in the middle of

Julie Crawford, owner of Vintage Soul, says her passion for fun, comfortable and stylish pieces without breaking the bank is what continues to set Vintage Soul apart from other boutiques.

“Our goal is to help you strive to be the best version of yourself and have fun doing it,” she continues. “From stylish out ts that make you feel good, to great jewelry that will make you feel pulled together, to being a part of the richness of true friendships within our walls at the shop and beyond in our social media world — we want you to be here and to be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”

In addition to women’s clothing and accessories, Vintage Soul also sells gifts, stationery and home goods.

While stores like Vintage Soul cover the basics, other stores in Dripping Springs are a bit more specialized. Dripping Springs Chocolate Company, a family-run chocolate and gift shop o of U.S. Highway 290, is exactly that.

“Several years ago, we went on a family mission trip to Nicaragua,” said Tracey Wilson, co-owner of DSCC with her husband Bob. “During this trip, we saw the poverty and the need for jobs to strengthen the economy. After much searching, discussion and evaluating the local markets in central Texas, we decided that a chocolate company using ethically sourced beans was a great way to support the local economies.”

Wilson and her family quickly devoted themselves to learning everything they could about chocolate, creating their own mini chocolate factory in Dripping Springs establishing a business around ethically sourced, raw cacao beans from Nicaragua, Ecuador and Venezuela.

“We are bean-to-bark, craft chocolate makers,” Wilson explained. “ at varies a little bit from chocolatiers. ere’s some overlap, but rather than taking chocolate and making confections, we take cocoa beans and make chocolate. Most of what we’re making is into bars, but we do also make some into barks and other fun things.”

DSCC, which creates “Chocolate with a Mission,” sells primarily dark, artisan chocolate — with seasonal o erings such as “Pecan Pumpkin Pie Spice” and “Candy Cane.” ey also partner with local businesses, such as Westcave Cellars, to produce items such as wine-infused chocolate.

Unique as their products may be, DSCC isn’t the only family-run, artisan game in town. Texas Hill Country Olive Company, on the north end of Dripping Springs o of Fitzhugh Road, brings its own high-quality products to

the Hill Country community.

Run by father-daughter duo Cara and John Gambini, the olive oil company was rst established in 2008 with the intent of bringing a little bit of their Italian heritage to the region.

“We fell in love with this area,” John says. “ e romance of the Hill Country was what grabbed me, reminding me of Sicily and Tuscany with its sloped hills and limestone soil.”

Together, the Gambinis established an 17acre, old-style orchard, keeping a low density and hand-picking their olives. Beginning with their Terra Verde Extra Virgin Olive Oil, the pair started selling at farmers markets and festivals in 2010. Now, over a decade later, the brand sells over a dozen extra virgin olive oils and infused olive oil blends, as well as barrelaged balsamic vinegar and various olive-related products, including table olives, olive oil dips and olive-oil based spa products.

“We’re always creating something new, experimenting with sta and trying customer suggestions,” said John. “We’re both really proud of the creativity shown over the years, and that creativity continues today. We really take our time testing and taste-testing to ensure we continue to produce award-winning products.”

e rst award-winning producer of EVOO in Texas and the rst certi ed organic olive orchard in Texas, Texas Hill Country Olive Company has won awards internationally every year since 2010, competing in the United States, Italy, Germany, France and Japan. eir products can be purchased in retailers throughout the Dripping Springs area, as well as online or in-person directly through their store. eir Fitzhugh location also o ers tours, a gift shop and a restaurant with a carefully crafted, seasonal menu.

“We’re a place for food, learning and relaxation,” said Cara. “We really pride ourselves on our customer service, and we have an awesome team of sta waiting to welcome you.”

PHOTO BY ROBERT WILSON

TEXAS

DRIPPING SPRINGS CHOCOLATE CO

Shopping

2 MOONS ART LOFT

400 W Hwy 290 512-296-2308 2moonsartloft.com

THE ART GARAGE

11190 Circle Dr., Ste 202

Austin, TX 78736 512-852-9900 theartgarageaustin.com

THE BEESWAX CO.

120 Frog Pond Ln, Bldg A-100 512-829-5586 beeswaxco.com

BELTERRA VILLAGE

Hwy 290W & Belterra Dr. Austin, TX 78737 512-219-7717 danlyproperties.com/belterra-village

BREED AND COMPANY

166 Hargraves Dr., B100

Austin, TX 78737 512-828-3510 shop.breedandco.com

CARVED STONE, INC.

5300 Bell Springs Rd. 512-858-5665 carved-stone.com

COWGIRLS & LACE/LE RAGGE RUGGS

1111 Hwy 290 W 512-894-0350 cowgirlsandlace.com

CURATED COTTAGE

330 W. Mercer Street 512-894-2324 facebook.com/CuratedCottageDS

DRIPPING SPRINGS CHOCOLATE COMPANY

391 Sportsplex Drive, Ste C 512-894-8002 dschocolateco.com

DRIPPING SPRINGS FLOWERS

220 W Hwy 290 512-858-7625 drippingspringsflowers.com

DRIPPING SPRINGS PHARMACY WELLNESS & COMPOUNDING 100 Commons, Ste. 1 512-858-7935 drippingspringspharmacy.com

FARMHOUSE CORTALE

330 W Mercer St 512-829-5028 facebook.com

FRESH NATIVE 28101 Ranch Road 12 512-858-5300 facebook.com/FreshNativeTX

GALLERY OF THE REPUBLIC 2600 Hwy 290 E 512-472-7701 galleryoftherepublic.com

HAUS OF JAYNE 766 Old Fitzhugh Rd 512-648-7420 hausofjayne.com

HEB 598 E Hwy 290 512-858-2972 heb.com

HIGH COTTON AT THE BARN 130 Schoolhouse Ridge Rd Driftwood, TX 78619 512-423-1963 highcottonhomedesign.com

HILL COUNTRY SENIOR CENTER 1310 Hwy 290 W 512-858-4663 HCseniorcenter.org

HOME SWEET HOME

296 Mercer St 512-695-2777

JAM MOM BABY KIDS

750-B Old Fitzhugh Rd 512-894-2198 jambabykids.com

JUNIPER TREE MARKET

301 W Mercer St 737-733-2138 junipertreemarket.com

LIVING FELT

2440 E Highway 290, Ste E1 512-892-2099 livingfelt.com

MAIN PLACE LIGHTING

31560 RR 12 unit 203 562-676-7660 shopmainplacelighting.com

MARS BEADS AND FOURTH ROCK RECORDS

400 W Hwy 290 512-213-5417 marsbeads.com

MERCER ST ART

330 W Mercer St, Suite 6 512-894-2236 facebook.com/MercerStArt

MONOGRAMMING & ETC.

120 Frog Pond Lane, Bldg 3, Ste 100A 512-894-4061 monogrammingetc.com

OPAL AESTHETICS & WELLNESS  206 W Mercer St 512-601-0092 opalmedspa.com

PANACHE

330 W Mercer St 512-829-4877 panachehillcountry.com

REVEL WILDE

330 W Mercer Street, Ste 1 512-858-7401 revelwilde.com

THE RURAL HOME 104 W. Mercer St 512-983-6168 theruralhome.com

SACRED MOON HERBS 305 Mercer St 512-858-7305 sacredmoonherbs.com

THE SATED SHEEP 100 Commons Rd, Ste 5 512-829-4607 satedsheep.com

SOL’STICE GARDEN EXPRESSIONS

4230 Hwy 290 W 512-569-0175 solsticegardens.com

STARRS ON MERCER 209 Mercer Street 512-858-4100 shopwithstarrs.com

TEXAS DANCE SUPPLY 13834 Sawyer Ranch Blvd 512-692-9211 texasdancesupply.com

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY OLIVE CO. 2530 W Fitzhugh Rd 512-607-6512 texashillcountryoliveco.com

TMOBILE|GPMOBILE 136 Drifting Wind Run 512-858-6640

TOMLINSON’S FEED

164 Belterra Village Way 737-484-0107 tomlinsons.com

TRIPLE S FEED AND GENERAL STORE

2111 US 290 512-894-0344 triplesfeedstore.com

TWIN LIQUORS

598 E. Highway 290, Suite 200 512-858-7744 twinliquors.com

VIK JEWELERS

598 E. Hwy 290, Ste 240 512-858-1234 vikjewelers.com

VINTAGE SOUL

302 Mercer St. 512-567-5934 vintagesoultx.com

WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED OF DRIPPING SPRINGS

333 E. Hwy 290 Suite 405 512-829-4782 drippingsprings.wbu.com

All businesses listed are in Dripping Springs unless otherwise noted.

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Sipping in Dripping

With 32 wineries, breweries, distilleries and tasting rooms, the Dripping Springs area is one of the most densely populated craft alcohol attractions in the state of Texas.

Between Dripping Springs and Driftwood, locals and visitors alike can nd whatever it is that quenches their thirst — from quality liquors and cocktails to relaxing beers and ciders. But what really makes the area unique is the way in which each local brewer, vintner and distiller supports the other, encouraging all to explore Dripping Springs and sip local.

“If another brewery pops up, it’s not really a competition, it’s a synergy,” says John McIntosh, co-owner of local bar, e Barbershop. “We’ve never viewed other businesses as taking from us or taking our customers; we view them as partners in helping this to become a destination. And I think that’s a perspective most people in this area would agree with.” is type of beverage scene was not always the case in Dripping Springs, McIntosh says. In fact, there used to be very few alcohol providers in general.

“People drank here, but it was kind of a taboo thing,” McIntosh recalls. “I think the community has really kind of grown up around it, and it’s a nice thing to be part of.” e Barbershop, which opened in 2011, was the rst bar in Dripping Springs, pioneering the local industry that would become a staple of the area. And as the beverage industry grew, so too did the city.

“Mercer Street, and downtown Dripping Springs in general, was kind of quiet and underutilized,” McIntosh says. “When we rst opened, we’d have people sit at the bar and realize they were neighbors. People just didn’t have the same opportunities to go out and meet and socialize. e Barbershop was one of the rst places where people could go and do that.”

In the 11 years since e Barbershop was established, it has become a community

DEEP EDDY VODKA

watering hole in what is now a hotspot for shopping, dining and entertainment. As the downtown center has grown, beverage businesses have also popped up in the surrounding areas, up Fitzhugh Road and both ways down U.S. Highway 290. One of these was 12 Fox Beer Company, which sits west of downtown o of 290 and opened in 2019.

“Our uniqueness is twofold: beer and atmosphere,” says Joe Hogge, owner of 12 Fox. “We don’t produce your typical IPAs; we produce craft, European-style beers. Our thing is to do something more traditional with just ve ingredients (water, malt, hops, avorings and sugars) and no preservatives. We try to make a really pure product.”

For 12 Fox, pure also means “made with rainwater,” an environmental measure that not only sets the brewery apart but is also good for the community it’s a part of. And for Hogge, the community is as much of a priority as the beer.

“We have a big space made for the community,” he says. “I want families to come out, people to meet each other… it’s all about establishing those connections with neighbors. Between our playscapes and our 150 picnic tables, we really have the ability to bring the community together and throw events.”

is is a priority many local businesses share. Down the opposite direction of 290, east of downtown Dripping Springs, Deep Eddy Vodka Tasting Room hosts a plethora of its own community events, all the while producing quality, small-batch vodka and infused vodkas.

“We eat, sleep and yes, drink, for one purpose: To bring people together for good times,” its website reads. “Whether it’s your backyard, the patio of your favorite bar, the biggest outdoor music festivals, or the most intimate concerts from up-and-coming musicians, Deep Eddy is there.”

For Deep Eddy, the tasting room is an opportunity for visitors to experience the brand, all the while learning about the production process and socializing with others, says Eustacio Lara, sales and marketing manager for the location.

“It’s a beautiful facility in a beautiful area,” Lara says. “You can come in and just talk for hours about our vodka with people at the tasting room.”

“We’re getting to the point now where there really is no reason to leave Dripping Springs if you don’t want to,” he added. “You can come and relax and be able to try almost everything.” is same sentiment is echoed by many in the area, including those at Solaro Estate Winery, a local, family-run producer of limited production, internationally awarded wines.

“People can stay in Dripping Springs now and not feel the need to venture out,” says Erika Fritz, vineyard manager for the winery. “It used to be that Dripping Springs was a stop on the way to Fredericksburg or a day trip out from Austin. Now, it’s the destination.”

Solaro, which planted its rst vines o of Fitzhugh Road in 2000, has seen a lot of change throughout its years of operation. As the rst wine producer in Dripping Springs, the estate was at the forefront of the development of what some refer to as the Fitzhugh district, now ripe with beverage producers. But despite all of the growth, Solaro has stuck to its roots: Italian winemaking in a rural landscape.

“My dad’s side of the family is Italian and has been making wine in Italy for almost 300 years now,” Fritz says. “We wanted to bring that tradition of winemaking to our family’s historic place here.”

Although the winery was started in 2000, the family estate was settled in 1909, giving the location a wild and beautiful history. While the original farmhouse still stands at the front of the property, the winery and its tasting room sit further back, looking out onto the rolling hills of the Texas countryside.

“Because our tasting room is in our vineyard, we focused on having lots of windows and lots of glass, so that when you’re inside it feels like you’re outside as well,” Fritz said. “All of our windows open up, so when we’re having our fall events, when the weather’s nice, we can open the windows and have more of a cohesive space. It’s a great way to sit with a nice glass of wine, just enjoying and experiencing the Hill Country.”

THE BARBER SHOP

Dripping With Taste Trail

e Dripping Springs area — including Dripping Springs and Driftwood — is a prime beverage destination of the ill Country with 2 wineries, breweries and distilleries.

Dripping Springs is home to a variety of well known and loved alcohol brands, as well as small “craft” brewers, vintners and distillers. e best way to e perience this local beverage scene is to check out the Dripping with Taste Trail. Sip wines from a selection of unique local wineries, taste craft cocktails from small batch distilleries and enjoy beer from award winning brewers.

Included on the trail are trendy, downtown hangouts in the historic district ofDripping Springs,while others are tucked away in the hills, o the beaten path. One thing’s for sure no matter which ones you visit, you’ll always be greeted with a smile and a drink .

If you’re a beer fan, you’ll be happy to know Dripping Springs hosts 11 breweries as well as the Dripping Springs Brewers estival. host Note Brewing o ers plenty of outdoor seating with local beers and cider, while Twisted X Brewing, recently opened in Dripping Springs,

craft beers with lagers, pilsners, IPAS and much more.

But if you’re not a beer fan, don’t worry — there’s plenty left for you. If you’re after quality liquors, refreshing cocktails can be found at Desert Door Sotol or Dripping Springs Distilling.

If wine is more your scene, check out the beautiful Bell Springs inery and their rela ing patio or amilton Pool Vineyards, one of the pioneer vineyards of the Te as ill Country.

No matter what you’re looking for, Dripping Springs probably has it. ank you for sipping local

Wineries, Breweries & Distieries

WINERIES

BELL SPRINGS WINERY

3700 Bell Springs Rd 512-643-7398 bellspringswinery.com

C.L. BUTAUD WINES

12345 Pauls Valley Rd Austin, TX 78737 clbutaud.com

DRIFTWOOD ESTATE WINERY

4001 Elder Hill Road

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-858-9667 driftwoodwine.com

THE DUCHMAN FAMILY WINERY

13308 FM 150 West

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-858-1470 duchmanwines.com

FALL CREEK VINEYARDS AT DRIFTWOOD 18059A FM 1826

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-858-4050 fcv.com

GRAVEYARD VINEYARDS

5258 Bell Springs Road 512-858-0612 graveyardvineyards.com/texas

HAMILTON POOL VINEYARDS & FARMS

25711 Hamilton Pool Rd Cypress Mill, TX 78663 512-400-4173 hamiltonpoolvineyards.com

HAWK’S SHADOW WINERY

7500 McGregor Lane 866-551-9463 HawksShadow.com

HENLY VINEYARDS LLC

P.O. Box 1783 512-431-3736 henlyvineyards.com

SOLARO ESTATE WINERY

13111 Silver Creek Rd 832-660-8642 solaroestatewinerytx.com

WINE FOR THE PEOPLE

12345 Pauls Valley Rd Austin, TX 78737 winerforthepeople.com

BREWERIES

12 FOX BEER CO. 4700 W Fitzhugh Rd 512-626-4458 12foxbeer.com

ACOPON BREWING CO. 211 W Mercer St. 512-829-4723 acoponbrewing.com

BEERBURG BREWING 13476 Fitzhugh Rd Austin, TX 78736 512-265-0543 beerburgbrewing.com

BELL SPRINGS BREWERY

3700 Bell Springs Rd 512-643-7398 bellspringswinery.com

FAMILY BUSINESS BEER CO. 19510 Hamilton Pool Rd 512-829-4202 familybusinessbeer.com

FITZHUGH BREWING 15435 Fitzhugh Rd 512-657-8749 fitzhughbrewing.com

GHOST NOTE BREWING 23663 Ranch Road 12 512-375-3300 ghostnotebrewing.com

JESTER KING BREWERY 13187 Fitzhugh Rd Austin, TX 78736 512-661-8736 jesterkingbrewery.com

ONE SHOT BREWERY 31610 RR 12 North 512-858-8755 oneshotdripping.com

SUDS MONKEY BREWING 12024 West Highway 290 Austin, TX 78737 512-222-3893 SudsMonkeyBrew.com

TWISTED X BREWING COMPANY 23455 W RR 150 512-829-5323 twistedxbrewing.com

VISTA BREWING 13551 FM 150 Driftwood, TX 78619 512-766-1842 vistabrewingtx.com

DISTILLERIES

CROWDED BARREL WHISKEY 16221 Crystal Hills Dr Austin, TX 78737 512-850-9662 crowdedbarrelwhiskey.com

DEEP EDDY VODKA TASTING ROOM & EVENT VENUE 2250 E. Hwy. 290 512-994-3534 deepeddyvodka.com/visit-us

DESERT DOOR TEXAS SOTOL 211 Darden Hill Road, A200 Driftwood, TX 78619 512-829-6129 desertdoor.com

DRIPPING SPRINGS DISTILLING 5330 Bell Springs Rd. 512-858-1199 drippingspringsdistilling.com

ISLAND GETAWAY RUM 231 Frog Pond Ln 737-274-4786 islandgetawayrum.com

ONE SHOT BREWERY 31610 RR 12 North 512-858-8755 oneshotdripping.com

REVOLUTION SPIRITS 12345 Pauls Valley Rd Austin, TX 78737 revolutionspirits.com

TREATY OAK DISTILLING 16604 Fitzhugh Rd 512-400-4023 treatyoakdistilling.com

TASTING ROOMS & BARS

BACKSPIN SPORTS BAR & GRILL 165 Hargraves Dr Austin, TX 78737 512-518-3033 backspinsportsbar.com

THE BARBER SHOP 207 Mercer 512-626-0086 barbershopbar.com

DRIFTWOOD DUGOUT

18992 FM 150

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-650-0008

EPICURE MARKET

1025 Cannon Drive, Ste 105 512-858-7300 epicuretx.com

GRAWLIX

332 W Mercer St 512-894-2414 Grawlixcocktaillounge.com

HILL COUNTRY TASTING ROOM

18992 FM 150

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-829-8977 hillcountrytastingroom.com

HUDSON’S ON MERCER 381 Mercer St 512-894-2075 hudsonsonmercer.com

MERCER DANCEHALL 23490 RR12 South Driftwood, TX 78619 512-858-4314 mererdancehall.com

SIDECAR TASTING ROOM

501 Old Fitzhugh Rd 512-607-4544 sidecartastingroom.com

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY OLIVE CO 2530 Fitzhugh Rd 512-607-6512 texashillcountryoliveco.com

History

Step back in time at e Pound House

Transport yourself into 19th-century pioneer life with a visit to the oldest surviving structure from the original Dripping Springs settlement.

e Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead Museum has long been at the heart of Dripping Springs’ cultural heritage, rst as the log cabin home of Dr. Joseph and Sarah Pound and, since 2003, as a history museum. e building is included in the National Register of Historic Places and was recorded as a Texas State Historic Landmark in 1965.

Nestled on ve oak- lled acres, e Pound House o ers an immersive glimpse into our community’s inception. e site includes a dog-trot-style home, smokehouse, windmill with cistern, barn, outhouse, and gardens. e restored 1854 family residence showcases original furnishings and heirlooms. As one of the town’s founding families, the Pounds’ home and land were a hub for the developing community and gave Dripping Springs its rst school house, doctor’s o ce and site for the settlers’ rst church services. Pound descendants lived in the house until 1983.

e Pound family tradition of hospitality continues today. e farmstead hosts events year-round, including the weekly Dripping Springs Farmers Market, the Dripping Springs Pumpkin Festival, school eld trips and docent-led tours of the museum. e completely fenced grounds are available for private parties and special uses.

e Pound House grounds and museum are open Wednesday during the Dripping Springs Farmers Market and by appointment. We invite you to participate with us in preserving the historic farmstead; come and enjoy a tour, attend an event or volunteer. For a full event calendar and details, please visit phfmuseum.org.

e farmstead is now maintained by the Friends of the Pound House Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonpro t organization. e site is supported entirely by grants and donations, which are tax-deductible. Contributions from the community keep Dripping Springs history alive for the enjoyment and bene t of current and future generations.

PHOTO BY DAVE WILSON

Discover the Gateway to the Hi Country

Eight years after Te as became the 2 th state of the nited States, three American families trekking from Mississippi and entucky decided to make their homes in this part of the Te as ill Country.

ollowing the road that carried supplies to a .S. Army fort in redericksburg, the “Old ree” e Pound, Moss, and allace families stopped their wagons to form a frontier settlement between 1 and 1 , amongst the area’s rolling hills, rock bottomed streams, majestic views and abundant wildlife.

By 1 , this modest settlement of log cabins and farmsteads needed a post o ce, which required them to pick a town name. Indiana “Nannie” Moss called it as she saw it inspired by lush, fern covered, limestone ledges that still drip with water to this day. enceforth, the town would be known as Dripping Springs.

Discover the rich history of Dripping Springs, “ e ateway to the ill Country,” with a walking tour brochure available at the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau. e brochure highlights the three historical districts of Dripping Springs dating back to the 1 0s.

Antiques, Gaeries & Museums

2 MOONS ART LOFT

400 W Hwy 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-296-2308 2moonsartloft.com

GALLERY OF THE REPUBLIC

2600 Hwy 290 E

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-472-7701 galleryoftherepublic.com

MERCER ST ART

330 W Mercer St, Suite 6

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-2236 facebook.com/MercerStArt/

POUND HOUSE FARMSTEAD

419-B Founders Park Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-2030 phfmuseum.org/

PRIMAL GALLERY

246 American Way

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 (512) 829-4647 primalgallery.com

THE RURAL HOME

104 W. Mercer St

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-983-6168 theruralhome.com

SCIENCE MILL

101 South Lady Bird Lane

Johnson City, TX 78636 844-263-6405 sciencemill.org

SOL’STICE GARDEN EXPRESSIONS

4230 Hwy 290 W

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-569-0175 solsticegardens.com

2 MOONS ART LOFT

400 W Hwy 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-296-2308 2moonsartloft.com

ALMOST GROWN PLAY CAFE AND COFFEE BAR

18901 Hamilton Pool Rd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-761-4622 almostgrownplaycafe.com

THE ART GARAGE

11190 Circle Dr., Ste 202

Austin, TX 78736 512-852-9900 theartgarageaustin.com

AUSTIN ZOO

10808 Rawhide Trail

Austin, TX 78736 512-288-1490 austinzoo.org

BOARD AND BRUSH CREATIVE STUDIO

333 E Highway 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-643-3800 http://boardandbrush.com/ drippingsprings

DREAMLAND DRIPPING SPRINGS

2770 W Hwy 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-827-1279 dreamlanddstx.com

DRIPPING SPRINGS COUNTRY CLUB

3000 W Hwy 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-945-4545 drippingspringscountryclub.com

ings to Do

EVO CINEMAS BELTERRA

166 Hargraves Drive

Austin, TX 78737 512-884-5183 evocinemas.com/belterra

GALLERY OF THE REPUBLIC

2600 Hwy 290 E

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-472-7701 galleryoftherepublic.com

HUDSON’S ON MERCER STREET

381 Mercer St

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-2075 hudsonsonmercer.com

LYNDON B. JOHNSON

NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

100 Lady Bird Lane

Johnson City, TX 78636 830-868-7128 x 222 nps.gov/lyjo

MARS BEADS AND FOURTH ROCK RECORDS

400 W Hwy 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-213-5417 marsbeads.com

MERCER DANCE HALL 23490 Ranch Road 12 Driftwood, TX 78619 512-858-4314 mercerdancehall.com

MERCER ST ART

330 W Mercer St, Suite 6

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-2236 facebook.com/MercerStArt

POUND HOUSE FARMSTEAD

419-B Founders Park Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-2030 phfmuseum.org

SCIENCE MILL

101 South Lady Bird Lane

Johnson City, TX 78636 844-263-6405 sciencemill.org

SOL’STICE GARDEN EXPRESSIONS

4230 Hwy 290 W

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-569-0175 solsticegardens.com

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY OLIVE CO.

2530 W Fitzhugh Rd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-607-6512 texashillcountryoliveco.com

THE EMILYANN THEATRE & GARDENS

1101 FM 2325

Wimberley, TX 78676 512-847-6969 emilyann.org

THE WIMBERLEY PLAYERS

450 Old Kyle Rd

Wimberley, TX 78676 512-847-0575 wimberleyplayers.org

Parks

Dripping Springs parks offer the outdoors the way it should be — with minimal development and a focus on Mother Nature in her natural state. Trails surrounding the Hill Country are in place for locals and visitors alike who want to wind down, clear their heads, take a deep breath, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the area’s natural beauty.

Area parks shine across the Hi Country

REIMERS RANCH PARK

“If you want to come see Central Te as in its natural state, you can come on out to eimers anch,” says Michael Brewster, park supervisor of Milton eimers anch Park.

Milton eimers anch Park is about 2, 00 acres of mostly undeveloped land with more than 1 miles of trails through the scenic landscape. It has largely been kept the same as it was when Travis County purchased the ranch from its namesake, Milton eimer.

“ e Pedernales iver, like most of eimers, is kept in a primitive state,” Brewster says. “Once you get down to that location there is a nice sandy beach, and if you go walking along the river you’ll be walking through a sort of canyon. ou’ll see the hills on either side.”

“ e sandy beach is limited to a couple of hundred yards and the rest is a grassy area,” he continues. “ e have some trails that will let you walk along the river shoreline.”

e pristine parkland, open space and preserved land in western Travis County, just a few minutes from Dripping Springs, o ers almost three miles of continuous frontage along the Pedernales iver.

“If you want to get out in nature, there is a lot of backcountry hiking to do,” Brewster said. “It’s an undeveloped river shoreline, so you can sit on a beach and look at a river. It’s the natural beauty of eimers anch that makes it so popular.”

Beyond the swimming and hiking trails, there are many other popular uses for eimers anch such as rock climbing, fishing, mountain biking and horseback riding. Astronomical programs have recently been added to enjoy the beautiful dark skies of Central Te as at the eimers anch Observatory.

Visit the park’s website for information about current capacity limitations and pricing.

Milton

Hamilton Pool is truly astonishing. An 80-foot concave cli arches around a deep blue-green natural pool, fed by a waterfall and surrounded by lush greenery.

“Most people can’t believe they are in Texas, because it looks more like the rainforest. When people come in from out of town, and I want to show them the natural beauty of Central Texas, I take them to Hamilton Pool,” says Michael Brewster, park supervisor for Hamilton Pool Nature Preserve. “It never fails to astonish people.”

Known since the time of Native Americans, the preserve has an overhang that is a stunning backdrop for a beautiful waterfall. Just minutes north of Dripping Springs, the park is begging to be explored and enjoyed.

Swimming is currently limited to the area accessible from the beach, due to safety concerns with falling rocks from the cli . Nevertheless, there are still plenty of areas to hike and see the incredible natural beauty of Hamilton Pool. e limestone cli s, the cave and the beauty that surrounds it are well worth the price of admission.

“You walk down, it’s a steep quarter-mile hike down to the pool,” Brewster said. “When you start out you see a typical oak juniper savanna of Central Texas. As you go down into the canyon you are in a region that has a lot more vegetation and diversity.

ere is a very thick canopy over you. Even ferns are growing in the summertime. You know you are in a di erent type of ecosystem.”

Picnicking and hiking are just a few of the pleasures the park has to o er in its 232 acres. e waterfalls and the con uence with the Pedernales River is a must see. Hamilton Pool is also a nature preserve with a mission to provide habitat for wildlife. ere is diverse vegetation throughout the park, which serves as a home to the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and a variety of other birds.

PEDERNALES FALLS STATE

Flowing over and around huge slabs of limestone, the blue waters of the Pedernales River alternate between wide and calm pools of cool, clear water to turbulent rapids cascading through narrow rock channels.

ere are plenty of great places to relax — either cooling o in the river during the heat of the summer or sitting under a shade tree to watch the world go by during the fall and winter.

One of the biggest attractions at the State Park are the horizontally unique falls which give the park its name.

“What we have is not a traditional vertical waterfall,” says Jason Hairston, assistant superintendent for Pedernales Falls State Park. “It is more horizontal. It is water owing over limestone rock, but it is such a large area that it is a unique sight to see.” ere is plenty more to see than the falls though. Located on 5,000 acres, Pedernales Falls is one of the largest state parks in Texas. ere are miles of riverfront along the Pedernales River, and more than 40 miles of hiking, biking and horse trails. While the river is the main draw, the hiking trails hold the hidden gems of the park.

“ e Twin Falls Trail has a more intimate, smaller-scale double waterfall,” Hairston says. “ It is a really lush green area that people can hike too. It is very quiet, pristine and a more tranquil experience. e Wolf Mountain Trail is a popular trail with four or ve creek crossings. Some do have some interesting features that are accessible. A lot of the trails are heavily canopied so you get some shade and there are interesting rock outcroppings to see.”

Beyond the plethora of day-use activities, Pedernales Falls State Park also o ers both tent camping and RV use. (Campsites with electricity and water will be temporarily closed from Oct. 3 through Feb. 28, 2023.)

e park often reaches capacity, so reservations are recommended.

PHOTO BY DAVE WILSON

hile neighboring amilton Pool takes up all the press, estcave Outdoor Discovery Center is the hidden gem of the ill Country.

“It is the same formation as amilton Pool, just smaller,” says Amber Ahrns osselin, conservation director of estcave Outdoor Discovery Center. “Once you get into the canyon, you are hiking along ein Branch Creek, which is spring fed. It is lush and green and you can hear the water through the trees. It is like you are in awaii or somewhere else. ou don’t e pect to see this in the Te as ill Country.”

estcave is a bo canyon grotto covered in native ferns. ater drips over the elevated, concave wall into ein Branch creek. “It creates an emerald green pool, which is 20 feet deep,” osselin said. “Along the hike, there are big boulders that collapsed down along the way when the canyon was formed. hen we get to the grotto, we walk behind the waterfall first, and you can see the sunlight catch the water and then we go up into the cave.”

estcave is a nature preserve, which means there are more restrictions to protect the land and features. A guided tour is required to hike into the grotto, which, for the most part, is only o ered on weekends. eservations are necessary and can be booked online.

“ e newly acquired uplands is basically an area to hike on your own, and it takes you through the oak juniper savannah and has nice ill Country views,” osselin says. “Bird viewing blinds are available. ou can sit and enjoy the wildlife. e also have butter y gardens under the Ahrns rove, which is named after the family that created the preserve. ere is a mile and a half of self guided hiking trails with benches along the way. ere is a restored prairie area. It is an e ploration on your own at your own pace.”

PHOTO BY JERRY MORENO

City Parks

For a city that retains a “small town” feel so well, Dripping has a wealth of outdoor recreation areas. More than 270 acres have been set aside for outdoor activities. If you’re interested in sports, check out Sports and Recreation Park for soccer and baseball or Founders Park for football, lacrosse or swimming. Interested in going for a hike? Charro Ranch Park and Dripping Springs Ranch Park have extensive trails. ( e Special Events Center at DS Ranch Park typically also has at least one event going on every weekend.) e Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead at Founders Park and Veterans Memorial Park provide quieter experiences in thought-provoking settings.

CHARRO RANCH PARK

Home of some of the prettiest nature paths, cross-country jogging trails, and birdwatching in the area, Charro Ranch Park gives visitors a rustic, away-from-it-all feeling, even though it’s right o FM 150. e park has picnic tables and a pavilion, but the emphasis is on enjoying nature in all its calming beauty. For a healthy and fun start to your day, hike the trails from the bird viewing station to the chimney swift tower, then head over to the solstice circle and peace walk. Charro Ranch Park is located at 22690 W. FM 150.

SPRINGS RANCH PARK

e Dripping Springs Ranch Park is home to the City’s regional 206,000 square foot Event Center and the Parks & Community Services administrative o ces Ranch House. e expansive grounds boast 110 acres of meandering, iconic Texas Hill Country. e event center hosts a variety of events throughout the year from weddings to livestock shows and seasonal markets. It also serves as a program hub for community events like skateboard nights and Coyote Kids Day Camp. Recreational pursuits at the park include hiking, bird viewing, star gazing, mountain biking, trail running, dogs on-leash walking and horseback riding. Dripping Springs Ranch Park is located at 1042 Event Center Drive.

SPORTS AND RECREATION PARK

If you’re in the mood for sports, the Sports and Recreation Park is the place for you. e park boasts baseball elds, soccer elds, a basketball court and even a sand volleyball court. ere’s a running and walking trail surrounding it all, a big playscape for the kids, picnic tables in the shade, a concession stand and restrooms open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. e trail goes through sunny and shady areas and makes for a very pleasant walk or jog. Sports and Recreation Park is located at 27148 Ranch Road 12.

FOUNDERS MEMORIAL PARK

Founders Memorial Park features Dripping Springs’ beloved historical and recreational resources. e Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead, an 1854 farm which once belonged to Dripping Springs founder Dr. William Pound, provides a glimpse into simpler days gone by. e community pool is open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day and visitors can purchase season pool passes, sign up for swim lessons or reserve a picnic pavilion on the City’s website. e pavilion can accommodate up to 50 people and looks out onto multiple age-varied play structures. It is also the new home of the famed Dripping Springs Farmers Market every Wednesday. Founders Park is located at 480 Founders Park Road.

VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK

Located right in the heart of Dripping Springs, Veterans Park started as a place for members of the community to honor those who have served in the military. Surrounding the American ag, there is a display with the names of local veterans, a ag disposal box, and a memorial to POWs and those killed in battle. e park has expanded to host di erent events of interest to the community. Veterans park is where the “Welcome to Dripping Springs” sign is, at the intersection of RR 12, HWY 290 and Mercer St.

e Wedding Capital of Texas

In 2015, Dripping Springs earned the o cial title of the Wedding Capital of Texas® — and has since lived up to that name.

Dripping Springs’ countryside is full of natural splendor, enchanting groves of trees and rippling creeks, o ering the perfect backdrop to say, “I Do.” Within the Wedding Capital of Texas, there is a robust community of expert wedding professionals devoted to helping couples plan their big day.

Endless variety awaits even the most discerning couple, and with venues and vendors of all sizes and styles o ering so many choices, choosing the best t can be overwhelming.

To assist with the wedding search and planning process, Destination Dripping Springs hosts e Wedding Capital of Texas Showcase each January and July. e Showcase in January of 2023 will take place at Distillers Hall at Dripping Springs Distilling on Bell Springs Road. e boutique wedding and bridal event is free to attend and will showcase a variety of Dripping Springs wedding experts in the area.

e Wedding Capital of Texas Showcase has two components. First, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., couples and their wedding parties will have the chance to visit each of the over 30 vendors for a one-on-one connection. e second element will feature open tours all around the Dripping Springs area from noon to 4 p.m. Guests will have opportunities to visit locations like venues and lodging properties with no appointments needed.

e Wedding Capital of Texas Showcase is a twist on the traditional bridal extravaganza. Plus, it is the best place to meet the wedding experts of Dripping Springs and Driftwood face-to-face and all in one location and discover why Dripping Springs is the Wedding Capital of Texas.

And after all the wedding planning, discover one of Dripping Springs’ scenic parks, stroll down historic Mercer Street to shop the boutique and antique stores, or enjoy a craft beverage from one of the 35+ wineries, breweries, or distilleries in the area.

Visit the Wedding Capital of Texas website to nd out more information at weddingcapitaloftexas.org.

MICHAEL T DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY

MICHAEL T DAVIS

Wedding & Event Venues

THE ALEXANDER AT CREEK ROAD

6730 Creek Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 866-515-1142 thealexanderatcreekroad.com

ALLEGRO WEDDING AND EVENTS VENUE

5001 McGregor Lane

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-813-5915 allegroatx.com

THE ARLO EVENTS

10700 Signal Hill

Austin, TX 78737 512-215-0691 thearloevents.com

ASANTE LODGING & EVENTS

16580 Fitzhugh Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620

512-829-1046 stayasante.com

CACTUS MOON LODGE

5508 W HWY 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-877-0464 cactusmoontx.com

CAMP LUCY

3509 Creek Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-4400 camplucy.com

CARRIAGE HILLS RANCH

125 Moore Lane

Blanco, TX 78606 512-222-9821 carriagehillsranch.com

CARTER CREEK WINERY RESORT & SPA

4064 US Highway 290

Johnson City, TX 78636 877-232-0138 cartercreek.com

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

1002 Rob Shelton Blvd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620

512-894-2897 marriott.com/AUSDI

CREEKSIDE WEDDING & EVENT VENUE

18315 RR 1826

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-894-3218 austincreeksidewedding.com

CRICKET HILL RANCH

7220 Creek Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-774-8177 crickethillranch.com

DEEP EDDY VODKA TASTING ROOM

2250 E. Hwy. 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-994-3534 deepeddyvodka.com/visit-us

DREAMLAND DRIPPING SPRINGS

2770 W Hwy 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-827-1279 dreamlanddstx.com

DRIFTWOOD ESTATE WINERY

4001 Elder Hill Road

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-858-9667 driftwoodwine.com

DRIPPING SPRINGS DISTILLING 5330 Bell Springs Rd.

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-1199 drippingspringsdistilling.com

DRIPPING SPRINGS RANCH PARK

1042 Event Center Drive

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-2390 drippingspringsranchpark.com

THE DUCHMAN FAMILY WINERY

13308 FM 150 West

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-858-1470 duchmanwines.com

FALL CREEK VINEYARDS AT DRIFTWOOD 18059A FM 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 512-858-4050 fcv.com

FELTON RANCH 1100 Lanier Ranch Rd Driftwood, TX 78619 512-709-5251 feltonranchweddings.com

FLORES MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2440 E. Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-2221 floresmexican.com

HAWK’S SHADOW WINERY 7500 McGregor Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 866-551-9463 HawksShadow.com

HILL COUNTRY TASTING ROOM 18992 FM 150 Driftwood, TX 78619 512-829-8977 hillcountrytastingroom.com

HUDSON’S ON MERCER STREET 381 Mercer St

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-2075 hudsonsonmercer.com

JESTER KING BREWERY 13187 Fitzhugh Rd Austin, TX 78736 512-661-8736 jesterkingbrewery.com

LONGHORN HALL AT TRIPLE H RANCH

2995 Old Ranch Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 972-965-3531

MA MAISON WEDDING & EVENT VENUE

2550 Bell Springs Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-777-1642 themamaison.com

MAE’S RIDGE

3965 Ranch Road 3232 Johnson City, TX 78636 512-626-9219 maesridge.com

MEMORY LANE EVENT CENTER 403 KC Memory Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-0700 memorylaneweddings.com

MERCER DANCE HALL 23490 Ranch Road 12 Driftwood, TX 78619 512-858-4314 mercerdancehall.com

MYSTIC SKY RANCH 5818 Ranch Road 165 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 830-833-0799 mysticskyranch.com

OLD GLORY RANCH 3633 River Road Wimberley, TX 78676 512-847-3646 oldgloryranch.com

PECAN SPRINGS RANCH EVENT VENUE 10601 B Derecho Austin, TX 78737 512-632-1046 pecanspringsranch.com

POUND HOUSE FARMSTEAD 419-B Founders Park Road

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-858-2030 phfmuseum.org

PROSPECT HOUSE 12745 Silver Creek Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-850-2884 prospecthousetx.com

THE SALT LICK RESTAURANT AND PAVILION 18300 FM 1826

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-894-3117 saltlickbbq.com

STONE HOUSE RANCH 2750 McGregor Lane

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-945-6940 stonehouseranchweddings.com

THE TERRACE CLUB 2600 E Hwy 290

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-4009 theterraceclub.com

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY OLIVE CO. 2530 W Fitzhugh Rd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-607-6512 texashillcountryoliveco.com

TREATY OAK DISTILLING 16604 Fitzhugh Rd

Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-400-4023 treatyoakdistilling.com

VISTA BREWING

13551 FM 150

Driftwood, TX 78619 512-766-1842 vistabrewingtx.com

WIZARD ACADEMY 16221 Crystal Hills Dr Austin, TX 78737 512-295-5700 wizardacademy.org

TRANSPORTATION

HILL COUNTRY WINE TOURS LLC 512-815-1900 hillcountrywinetours.com

RICKSHAW RIDES 512-348-7410 rickshawridestx.com

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CHARTER AND LIMOUSINE 512-656-8299 hillcountryshuttleservice.com

TEXAS TIPSY TOURS 512-593-1858 texastipsytours.com

YOUR DAY CHARTERS 512-574-6022 yourdaycharters.com

Dripping Springs Events

e annual Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival presents more than 35 showcases a day, featuring a wide variety of nely-crafted songs and the people and stories behind them.

Over 50 extremely talented songwriters will play “in-the-round,” Nashville-style. o e venues are e Barber Shop, Acopon Brewing, Mazama Co ee Co., Hudson’s on Mercer, e Courtyard at the Warehouse District, Dog ‘N’ Bone, Haus of Jayne and Sidecar Tasting Room.

All Festival shows are free except for the Saturday night Headliners Showcase. Performances run continuously on

Friday and Saturday, from afternoon to evening. Sunday’s festivities include a spirited Gospel Brunch Showcase at Hudson’s on Mercer; followed by the ever-popular Festival Wrap-Party in front of the H-E-B Welcome Tent. Parking is plentiful and food and drinks will be available at each venue. ere will also be a complimentary golf cart shuttle service between venues.

Saturday night’s ticketed Headliner Showcase will feature three award-winning songwriters: Aaron Barker, Leslie Satcher and David Lee.

Since its inception in 2014, the Dripping

Springs Songwriters Festival has been focused on the art of songwriting and the story of the artists who write them. After performing at the festival’s very rst year; Grammy-winning, Nashville songwriter Dean Dillon commented, “ is festival could grow to be something big, you’ve really got a great thing going here.”

You won’t want to miss a single note of the Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival, now run by the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau, so mark those calendars!

For more info about the 2022 Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival, visit drippingspringssongwritersfestival.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS PUMPKIN FESTIVAL

Bring the family out to the Dripping Springs Pumpkin Festival and experience a full day of unlimited fun with over 50 fall-inspired games, activities and attractions.

Enjoy live music presented by 100.1 Sun Radio, a courtyard marketplace featuring family-friendly products and an incredible selection of seasonal foods and beverages for both children and adults. You’ll also nd an abundance of photo opportunities, so don’t forget your cameras.

e Dripping Springs Pumpkin Festival is held at the Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead, a Texas State Historical Landmark, which is also included on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally settled in 1854, the farmstead is nestled on ve beautifully shaded, oak- lled acres, making it the perfect setting for a fall celebration.

Christmas will o cially kick o in Dripping Springs with the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony on Friday, Dec. 2 at dusk.

When the sky goes dark, everyone gathers around the Christmas tree at Veterans Memorial Park (also known as e Triangle). e celebration really gets going the next day — Saturday, Dec. 3 — with Christmas on Mercer from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. e festival, hosted by the City of Dripping Springs and the Lions Club, takes over downtown Dripping Springs. Mercer Street, Dripping Springs’ main street, is closed to vehicle tra c, allowing shoppers to meander about and check out vendor booths and local shops. Shoppers can nd everything from crafts to decorations, art, handcrafted furniture, clothing, food and beverages and many other items.

ere are also plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained. Parents will nd a petting zoo, trackless train, pony rides and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus. Folks can also enjoy holiday-themed live music and performances by local dance groups, making the whole event perfect for families.

For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page at facebook.com/ christmasonmercerstreet.

CHRISTMAS ON MERCER

Dec. 2–3, 2022 facebook.com/christmasonmercerstreet

With 11 craft breweries in the area, it’s only tting that Dripping Springs is now home to the Brewers Festival.

If you’re looking for an enjoyable and unique experience in the Hill Country, this festival features a host of award-winning local artisans. New in 2022, the festival o ers the opportunity to select tastings from 11+ brewers with 22 options. Additional highlights included live music, a variety of local foods and a keepsake beer mug.

As in the rst year, the 2023 festival will require an advance purchase of a wristband with two tasting options available: eight tastings or unlimited tastings. Last year’s Brewers Festival featured 12 Fox Brew Co., Acopon Brewing, Beerburg Brewing, Bell Springs Brewing, Family Business Beer Co., Fitzhugh Brewing, Ghost Note Brewing, Jester King Brewery, Suds Monkey Brewery, Twisted X Brewing and Vista Brewing.

“Destination Dripping Springs wants to highlight the importance of our local brewers and their contributions to Texas breweries,” said Pam Owens, president and CEO of Destination Dripping Springs. “ ey are a vital part of our local economy and make a signi cant impact on the growing tourism industry.”

e event is held rain or shine on Old Fitzhugh Road in downtown Dripping Springs with free parking, all within walking distance.

PHOTO BY DAVE WILSON

FOUNDERS DAY

28–30, 2023

Founders Day is a three-day festival in April celebrating the founding of the Dripping Springs community, and it’s the largest event of the year.

Locals and visitors look forward to the wide variety of festivities that are o ered including the Mighty omas Carnival, delicious food, barbecue cooko competitions, live music, and the more than 150 arts and craft booths and vendors that line-up along historic Mercer Street in additions to hundreds of barbecue cooko teams with plenty of delicious fare available. e rst day of the festival kicks-o on a Friday evening with a parade made up of the small businesses, organizations and schools of Dripping Springs as they ride through downtown on decorated oats. Afterwards, the Mighty omas Carnival is ready for the kids to enjoy and the booths and vendors set up for the parents to stroll by and shop.

On Saturday and Sunday, spend the day at the carnival, listen to live music and try all the di erent food options.

e festival is hosted by the City of Dripping Springs, as well as the Founders Day Commission, which includes representatives from di erent local organizations. e proceeds collected from the three-day event are contributed back to the community, and bene t local nonpro t organizations, parks, churches, schools, youth groups and charities.

e annual Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo at Dripping Springs Ranch Park showcases the best rodeo skills, live music, food and drink and entertainment to the community for the past eight years.

e Cowboy’s Professional Rodeo Association is popular with residents and visitors alike.

Enjoyable for anyone of all ages, bring your family to enjoy the arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities and more throughout the three-day event.

e Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo also includes bareback bronc riding, saddle bronc, bull riding, barrel racing, roping, rodeo clowns, a cowboy breakfast and mutton busting.

Dripping Springs Ranch Park is located at 1042 Event Center Drive in Dripping Springs. For more information, visit drippingspringsfairandrodeo. com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS FAIR & RODEO

May 29, 2023 drippingspringsfairandrodeo.com

Pride of Dripping Springs, a community-led nonpro t, holds its annual LGBTQ+ Pride festival every June.

e festival, held at the Dripping Springs Ranch Park and Event Center, takes place the last Saturday of June in celebration of June as National LGBTQ+ Pride Month. e annual event is split into two segments, the rst of which is a family-friendly festival from noon to 7 p.m. Sponsored and facilitated in part by the Springs Family YMCA, the family-friendly festival features a variety of games and activities for children, teens and families, as well as vendor booths for all ages.

e second segment is designed for ages 18 and up, a part of the festival Pride of DS has described as “Pride After Dark.” is portion of the festival features a DJ and drag show.

Both segments o er food and drinks for purchase.

In addition to raising money for health and wellness resources, proceeds from the event will help fund future events and scholarships from Pride of DS.

For more information, visit prideofdrippingsprings.org.

PHOTO BY DAVE WILSON

FARMERS MARKET

or the third time in four years, Dripping Springs has the title as the number one armers Market in Te as. is comes after a three month long nationwide vote organi ed by American armland Trust.

e contest, which celebrates armers Markets across the country, not only recogni es the Dripping Springs armers Market as number one in Te as, but also ranks it atop the Southwest region. Markets were voted on by patrons and shoppers at thousands of farmers markets across the nited States.

And now, the armers Market gets to truly spread its wings in a new location at e Pound ouse armstead just o of anch oad 12.

e Pound ouse armstead has been the center of Dripping Springs’ heritage since the 1 0’s — first as the original log cabin home of one of the town’s founding families and, in recent decades, as a history museum. Combining the two local landmarks is a recognition of the agrarian heritage of Dripping Springs, according to representatives from each, and is intended to create a deeper connection between the iconic DS M and the heritage of the city. It has also provided more room for vendors, activities and future growth.

e armers Market hosts a variety of vendors with fresh produce, grass fed and pasture raised meats and eggs, freshly baked breads and homemade pies, regional honeys, handcrafted jellies and jams, natural soaps and and more.

e Pound ouse armstead is located adjacent to ounders Memorial Park o ounders Park oad and can be accessed via 12 North or via ob Shelton Boulevard. Market hours will be from to p.m. every ednesday.

Daily Event Updates

Up to date event information can be found at destinationdrippingsprings.com

Live Music

Many

HUDSON’S ON MERCER STREET

Mercer Street

Springs, TX 78620

MERCER DANCEHALL

Ranch Road 12

TX 78619

Dri wood offers

e most recent update from the U.S. Census Bureau estimated that there are 176 people living in Driftwood. If that is the case, there is a restaurant table and a seat or a barstool for each one of them, because this tiny community is bursting at the seams with food, drink and entertainment.

ere are a dozen restaurants, breweries, wineries and distilleries that dot the landscape. Trattoria Lisina, an upscale, Italian restaurant in the area, looks like it should be placed in the Italian countryside rather than in the heart of the Hill Country. Meanwhile, e Salt Lick BBQ, may just be the best barbecue in the state of Texas; some media outlets, like e New York Post, have even named it one of the best barbecue restaurants in the United States.

e list of accolades and accomplishments is long. ere is also Hays City Store, which has quickly become one of the hottest

also has upscale

while overlooking some of the best views in the Hill Country.

To lift your spirits, try Desert Door, which is a craft distiller of a premium and unique Texas spirit known as Texas sotol. eir liquor is made from the sotol plant, which they wild-harvest all across Texas, from Driftwood to Marfa. Sotol was the rst alcoholic beverage ever consumed by humans in Texas 800 years ago, and the plant has been in use for over 13,000 years. e sotol is smoother than whiskey, less smokey than mezcal and it doesn’t burn like tequila.

For the beer lover, Vista Brewing is one of the newest additions to the Driftwood scene.

e destination has a “holistic approach to hyper-local, delicious foods and beverages.” Vista brews beers in “traditional European style” while “highlighting our own Texas Hill Country terroir.” All of the beers are made with water sourced from the Trinity Aquifer via a well on the

you want to try

If so, stop by the Hill Country Tasting Room, which

of local, regional and statewide options to choose from. And for the sports fan, directly behind the Hill County Tasting Room is the brand-new Driftwood Dugout. Attached to a tournament-quality Little League baseball eld, the dugout is the perfect spot to stop in for a beer and catch whatever sporting event is on TV. And for those coordinated enough to handle a beer and a bat, batting cages are available for rent on site.

Driftwood may be a tiny town, but even still it is a blip on the map worth stopping at as there are so many restaurants, entertainment and cultural venues worth visiting.