2015 georgetown visitor guide

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EXPLORE GEORGETOWN, TEXAS!

VISIT GEORGETOWN, TX

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VisitGeorgetown.co

VisitGeorgetown.com

HISTORY Sandwiched between the North and South San Gabriel River, the City of Georget own, Texas, was once nothing more than a plot of land in the middle of a river. So how is it that this “fork in the road” came to be the Hill Cou ntry’s favorite neighbor? According to the histo ry books, a wealthy landowner, George Washington Glasscock, offered to donate 172 acres of his land to Williamson County. In exchange for his generos ity, Glasscock asked that the new county seat bear his name.

Probably a good thing they wen t with his first name.

Since its establishment more than 160 years ago, Georgetown has developed into a community rich in history, culture and character.

With an emphasis on architectural preservation, accl aimed annual events and economic growth, the city has proven that hard work and dedication mak es for the Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas.

It’s no wonder that Georgetown has earned quite the reputation as an award-winni ng community.

In 1997, the town became the first Texas city to earn the Great American Main Street Award, a National Trust Award, and has continued to gain accolades, most recently for the restoration of the Georgetown Art Center.

Ready to find yourself at the proverbial fork in the road?

Stop by the Visitor Center located at 103 West 7th Street and discover that when you visit Georgetown, there is no wrong choice.

visitgeorgetown.com

I

t’s true. Our curtain called and he wants your number.

Interested, but want more than a date with the Palace Theater on your visit? Why not lace up your sneakers and hit the trails around San Gabriel Park or roll your sleeves and dig up an archeological experience at Inner Space Cavern. Whether you want a family-friendly adventure or a romantic getaway for two, our attractions know how to make your vacation anything but square.

ATTRACTIONS

IN GEORGETOWN DOWNTOWN SQUARE

Visit the Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas and fill your day with Victorian architecture, unique shops, wineries and delicious dining. Enjoy Georgetown to its fullest by exploring downtown. Make learning fun with an impromptu history lesson on the Downtown Square where you’ll find more than 20 historical markers in the Williamson County Courthouse Historic District. Tour four residential Historic Districts near the Square, including the Olive Street National District where you’ll discover dozens of Victorian homes and Arts and Crafts-style bungalows.

BLUE HOLE

While you enjoy your day in the great blue yonder, be sure to marvel at the limestone bluffs that border the lagoon along the South Fork of the San Gabriel River.

The Park is located five blocks north of the Downtown Square along N. Austin Avenue.

The entrance to Blue Hole Park is at W. Second Street and Rock Street.

INNER SPACE CAVERN

Ever wondered what is below the earth’s surface? Well the Inner Space Cavern can answer that and so much more. Hidden for 10,000 years, Inner Space Cavern is one of the most well preserved caves in Texas.

Over the years, archeologists have unearthed remains of prehistoric animals and found some of nature’s finest works of art. To learn more about the cave or schedule a tour, visit the Inner Space Cavern website.

4200 S. IH-35 | 512-931-CAVE, Toll Free: 877-931-2283

myinnerspacecavern.com

VisitGeorgetown.com

GEORGETOWN SCULPTURE TOUR

The Georgetown Sculpture Tour includes pieces in San Gabriel Park (near the intersection of Morrow St. and Stadium Drive), downtown along Main Street between 7th and 8th Streets, and at the Georgetown Public Library, 402 W. 8th Street.

The Georgetown Tour is part of the Central Texas Sculpture Tour, which includes the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Sculpture on Main in Marble Falls and the Sculptors Dominion in San Antonio. For more information, visit the website.

arts.georgetown.org

THE PALACE THEATER

Plan a night out on the town and be sure to catch the curtain call at The Palace Theater in the historic Downtown District. In 2001, this former movie house was reopened as a performing arts hall. The venue now showcases a year-round season of live theater productions including musicals, comedies and dramas.

810 S. Austin Avenue 512-869-7469

georgetownpalace.com

DISC GOLF

Come on out and give disc golf a throw. The family-friendly sport is free to play and open to the public at one of Georgetown’s three disc golf courses. Spend an afternoon at Rivery Park’s 18-hole course or go for nine at San Gabriel Park or Pinnacle Park.

parks.georgetown.org

SAN GABRIEL PARK

San Gabriel Park with its 200-year-old Oak trees and river access makes for the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

Bring your kids for a day of imagination and fun on the newly renovated Playscape or pack a lunch and cast a line for a relaxing day of fishing. If hiking or biking suits your fancy, the San Gabriel River Trail, designated a National Recreation Trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior is a great 9-mile tour.

For information on Georgetown’s many parks, visit the website.

445 E. Morrow Street

parks.georgetown.org

SOUTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY

Exercise your mind with a stroll through the halls of Southwestern University. As the oldest chartered university in Texas and home to one of the most beautiful structures in the state, you’ll get more than just a history lesson. The architecture is something to behold with much of its Gothic-style buildings dating back to the 1800s, while the labs and athletic arenas are pure twenty-first century.

1001 E. University Avenue 512-863-1487

southwestern.edu

WILLIAMSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE

Located at 710 Main Street and visible for miles around, the imposing neoclassical structure is the focal point of the central business district and the fifth structure to serve as the county courthouse. For free tours of the Williamson County Courthouse, available Fridays and Saturdays at 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30PM, contact the Williamson Museum.

ATTRACTIONS

IN GEORGETOWN LAKE GEORGETOWN

HIKE AND BIKE TRAILS

Enjoy all nature has to offer by hiking or biking the nine miles of trails along the San Gabriel River.

No bike, no problem. Our free bike share program offers daily bike rentals. From natural springs and star gazing to bird watching and wildflowers, the trails offer more than enough reasons to take in the great outdoors. Entry points are available at San Gabriel Park, McMaster Athletic Complex, Blue Hole Park, Rivery Park, Chandler Park, Chautauqua Park and Booty’s Road Park. Need a break or want to linger longer? Benches, drinking fountains and restrooms are conveniently located along the way.

parks.georgetown.org

WILLIAMSON MUSEUM

There is so much to learn about the unique culture and rich heritage of Williamson County and there is no better place to take it all in than at the museum dedicated to making education fun. Take a peek at the museum’s website to see the upcoming exhibits and stop by to enjoy some free, hands-on educational programs, innovative tours and extensive outreach services.

For the more serious angler or water enthusiast, this 1,200-acre lake offers boating, skiing, fishing, four separate camping areas, a wildlife preserve and 16 miles of hiking trails. Several camping areas are available ranging from primitive to modern. Cedar Breaks Park and Jim Hogg Park have boat ramps and camping facilities with RV hook-ups and restrooms with showers.

Russell Park offers a camping and swimming area, a boat ramp and restrooms with showers, while Tejas Park offers primitive camping and picnic areas.

Off Williams Drive 512-930-5253

swf-wc.usace.army.mil/georgetown

ART CENTER

Located in the Historic Firehouse No. 1 (circa 1892), the new Georgetown Art Center, managed by the local, nonprofit organization Georgetown Art Works, offers the community a place to appreciate art at every level. The Art Center hosts the works of a nationally renowned artist each month and features the arts and crafts of local artisans in the gift shop.

816 S. Main Street 512-930-2583

arts.georgetown.org

716 S. Austin Avenue 512-943-1670

williamsonmuseum.org

VisitGeorgetown.com

N

o need to count sheep. When you hit the hay in Georgetown, you’re guaranteed a good night’s rest. Whatever your sleep style, we’ve got your eight hours covered.

In search of a familiar place to stay? Give one of our conveniently located hotels or motels a try. Looking for something a little outside the box? Our campgrounds are perfect for rolling in or popping up, while our bed and breakfasts serve up some serious charm.

LODGING

IN GEORGETOWN SAN GABRIEL HOUSE

Located across the street from Southwestern University and walking distance to Georgetown’s Downtown Square, this 1908 mansion is the quintessential bed & breakfast. Relax in one of the six handsomely appointed guest rooms, curl up with a book in the cozy library or enjoy the great outdoors with a stroll through the flourishing gardens.

Once you stay at the San Gabriel House we’re sure you will want to linger longer.

1008 E. University Avenue | 512-930-0070

sangabrielhouse.com

SWEET LEMON INN

Relax and refresh at the Sweet Lemon Inn! Located just off the Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas, this newly renovated inn features 2 beautifully-appointed suites, with 3 guest rooms, a living area and kitchenette.

Watch the sun set from Sweet Lemon’s balcony after enjoying another wonderful day in Georgetown.

812 S. Church Street | 512-270-0812

sweetlemoninn.com

RANCH HOUSE

It’s not a visit to Texas without a stay at a Texas-style rock house. The Ranch House submits beautifully to its heritage with a metal roof, rolling hills and 100-year-old oak trees offering a quiet shade. The four bedrooms invite you to kick off your boots and stay a while. With fresh flowers and homemade cookies awaiting your arrival, you may choose to come home to the Ranch more often. Close to Sun City and The Vineyard at Florence.

95 Redbird Trail | 512-863-2331

ranchhousebandb.com

VisitGeorgetown.com

HOTELS/MOTELS CANDLEWOOD SUITES 451 N. IH 35 | Georgetown, TX 78628 512-591-7888

COMFORT SUITES 11 Waters Edge Circle | Georgetown, TX 78626 512-863-7544

BEST WESTERN PLUS 600 San Gabriel Village Boulevard | Georgetown, TX 78626 512-868-8555

GEORGETOWN INN 209 N. Interstate 35 | Georgetown, TX 78628 512-863-5572

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES 431 N. Interstate 35 | Georgetown, TX 78628 512-591-7890

LA QUINTA INN 333 N. Interstate 35 | Georgetown, TX 78628 512-869-2541

ECONO LODGE 1005 Leander Road | Georgetown, TX 78628 512-863-7504

BUDGET INN 1908 S. Austin Avenue | Georgetown, TX 78626 512-869-0709

CAMPING BERRY SPRINGS RV PARK 140-C Market Street | 512-864-2724

www.berryspringsrv.com

EAST VIEW RV RANCH 552 East View Drive | 512-931-2251

www.EastViewRVRanch.com

LAKE GEORGETOWN 512-930-5253

www.swf-wc.usace.army.mil/georgetown NEW LIFE RV PARK 1200 County Road 152 | 512-931-2073

www.newlifervpark.com

SHADY RIVER RESORT 7450 E. Highway 29 | 512-930-1140

www.shadyriverrvresort.com

# OF ROOMS

BREAKFAST

71 69 76 47 74 99 54

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# OF SITES

71/78 50

LAUNDRY FAC.

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212 regular 39 tent-only 90 18

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LODGING

IN GEORGETOWN

INTERNET

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MEETING ROOMS

PETS

INDOOR/ OUTDOOR

POOL

FITNESSROOM

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O

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SHOWER/RESTROOMS

INTERNET

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O O

AMPS

20/30/50 30/50

PULL-THRUS

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20/30/50 30/50

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VisitGeorgetown.com

W

hen you’re spending time in Georgetown, you’ll discover that our happiest hours last all day. And while that might have something to do with the hand manning the tap, we’ve also found that visitors are prone to falling in love at first bite. Not hard to do, considering there are more than 100 restaurants and bars to choose from. Need more information about where to go or what to try? Download the Explore Georgetown Texas app or stop by the Visitor Center at 103 West 7th Street.

DINING

IN GEORGETOWN BEST OF GEORGETOWN • 2014

Winners for Best Overall Restaurant

DOS SALSAS

GO LD!

The family owned and operated Tex Mex restaurant offers Texas-size plates with all of the fixings. From burritos and tamales to Mexican style barbeque, the Plata family ensures that you’ll leave full and happy.

True to their Tex Mex roots, Dos Salsas serves up the perfect margarita; add chips and salsa and you might just be in heaven.

1104 S. Main Street | 512-930-2343

dossalsas.com

WILDFIRE

S ILVER!

The place to ignite your palate and warm your senses. Both the restaurant’s name and unique flavors are derived from the large oak log burning grill and smoking applications with apple, hickory and mesquite wood. Their full service bar offers the most extensive Texas wine list in the world. If you are looking for a big city meal with small town style, Wildfire is the place to savor.

812 S. Austin Avenue | 512-869-3473

wildfiretexas.com

EL MONUMENTO

BRO NZE!

Craving some made-from-scratch Mexican fare? Who isn’t? Prime your palette with a Prickly Pear Margarita or dive into some quintessentially delicious cuisine at El Monumento. From the architecture of the grounds to the construction of the Platos Classicos, it’s obvious that this restaurant was built with taste in mind.

500 S. Austin Avenue | 512-930-9586

elmonumentogeorgetown.com

VisitGeorgetown.com

W

e’ve been told that our windows encourage shopping, and, what can we say, we have a thing for retail therapy. In need of the perfect present for that not-so-easy-to-shop-for friend or planning to give yourself a pat on the back in the form of something trendy and new? You’ll find just what you were looking for — and maybe a few things that you weren’t — at one of the many locally owned boutiques, shops and galleries around town.

SHOPPING

IN GEORGETOWN BEST OF GEORGETOWN • 2014

Winners for Best Specialty Store

THE ESCAPE

GO LD!

When you walk into the shop, you are met with a warm embrace of color and variety.

Owned by Len and Judy Lester, the couple has searched far and wide to find handmade gifts and home furnishings. The Escape welcomes new products and pieces from craftsman and artists each month. Be sure to take an Escape because you never know what you might find.

713 S. Main Street | 512-930-0052, 888-492-7777

shoptheescape.com

SWEET TOOTH CANDY AND CAFÉ

S ILVER!

Get a sugar rush! With more than 500 types of candies, 200 old-fashioned soda bottles, 49 different root beers and 17 types of cream sodas, Sweet Tooth Candy and Café has discovered the sweetest way to our heart.

1102 S. Austin Ave. | 512-864-9800

sweettoothcandycafe.com

ALL THINGS KIDS

BRO NZE!

The toy store is a unique nook where your child’s imagination takes center stage. The toys, treats and books sold are not the typical battery-operated gadgets you find elsewhere, instead they are knowledge-building, mind-puzzling, generation-lasting, creators of fun.

Friendly owners and staff make this a perfect place for children and adults to enjoy.

703 S. Main Street | 512-868-2659

allthingskidsusa.com

VisitGeorgetown.com

MONTHLY FIRST FRIDAY

First Friday of every month (February – December) Georgetown’s First Friday events are a wonderful time to explore the city under a blanket of stars.

Relax into your weekend by strolling the historic streets, visiting galleries, meeting local artists, viewing new works and exhibits and tapping your toes to live music. If you still haven’t had your fill, take a seat at one of the great restaurants around town and savor a sumptuous meal.

THE GEORGETOWN SWIRL March 7, 2015

Sip, Savor, Shop… and Swirl around the Square, a downtown award-winning event, sponsored by the Georgetown Main Street Program, offers an evening full of indulgence. Sample some of the finest Texas-grown wine while you shop for the perfect gift or savor a taste of Texas at one of the prime restaurants on the square.

swirl.georgetown.org

thegeorgetownsquare.com

MARKET DAYS

ANNUAL

Join us as Downtown comes alive with booths featuring handmade arts & crafts, jewelry, unique clothing, woodcrafts, ironworks, festive foods, antiques & collectables, stained glass, music and entertaining fun for all ages.

Top off a great day of family time with a visit or two to the shops and restaurants around the Square.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY GEM & MINERAL SHOW February 20 & 21, 2015

The Williamson County Gem and Mineral Show is perfect for the mineralogist or gem enthusiast. With exhibits, demonstrations, games, educational displays, fluorescent minerals, custom and designer jewelry and door prizes, your family will enjoy a hands-on learning experience. You won’t even need to pack a lunch because food and refreshments can be found throughout the show. So bring your friends and family out to meet featured artisans, discover unique minerals and support the College of Earth Sciences.

wcgms.org

Second Saturday of every month (March – November)

thegeorgetownsquare.com

GEORGETOWN QUILT & STITCHERY SHOW March 27 & 28, 2015

Find a quilt to match every room in your house. The Georgetown Quilt and Stitchery Show show features a silent auction, quilt raffles, a tearoom and so much more. Come spend the day learning about quilting from our local experts.

georgetownquiltshow.org

EVENTS

IN GEORGETOWN RED POPPY FESTIVAL April 24 – 26, 2015

The Red Poppy Festival marks the coming of spring and the arrival of Georgetown’s colorful springtime visitor, the Red Poppy Flower. These beautiful flowers have been a part of Georgetown’s heritage and landscape for more than seventy years, a fact certified by the Texas legislature in naming Georgetown as the Red Poppy Capital of Texas. Plan to spend a weekend exploring the 125 unique handcraft vendors, fabulous free children’s area, car show, bike ride, parade, outstanding live music and a complimentary Saturday night concert and a street dance.

redpoppyfestival.com

MUSIC ON THE SQUARE

Summer Concert Series

Every Friday evening (June – August) This summer, enjoy live music on the Courthouse. All concerts are free and are from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Fridays in June, July and August.

Bring your lawn chair or blanket, grab dinner to go from any of the downtown restaurants and enjoy an evening of great live music.

GEORGETOWN FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS May 28 – 31, 2015

Georgetown’s Festival of the Arts offers visitors and residents alike a taste of art and culture.

The festival offers a weekend filled with nationally recognized musicians and scholars, concerts and presentations and a brilliant fireworks display to ignite all the senses.

gtownfestival.org

WILLIAMSON COUNTY SHERIFF POSSE RODEO June 26 & 27, 2015

Come out and enjoy a fun, family-friendly weekend at the annual Williamson County Sheriff Posse Rodeo. Enjoy mutton bustin, calf scramble, rodeo clowns, kids corral area, vendors and the HEB Steer Saddling Challenge. So whether you’re a full-fledged cowboy or city slicker, there’s something for you!

georgetownrodeo.com

www.visitgeorgetown.com

MOVIES IN THE PARK

Summer Series

Visit site for movie dates & times.

Pop some popcorn, grab your family and meet your friends for a movie in San Gabriel Park. All shows begin at dusk.

parks.georgetown.org

VisitGeorgetown.com

CHISHOLM TRAIL DAYS October 17, 2015

ANNUAL JULY 4TH CELEBRATION July 4, 2014

Celebrate the Fourth of July with more than 50,000 of your fellow patriots in beautiful San Gabriel Park. From morning till night, you can shop in one of the 80+ vendor booths, feed baby livestock at the petting zoo, watch and wave as the street parade goes by, listen to the beats of live entertainment, tour the area on a train ride and watch as the fireworks display ignites the sky with a splendor of color and sound.

georgetownsertoma.org

GALLERY GEORGETOWN October 10, 2015

Tour galleries, discover fine arts and crafts, taste local fare and enjoy live entertainment during Gallery Georgetown.

The city-wide art gallery tour is a collaborative effort between the local art community and local art businesses to expand support and awareness of fine art.

arts.georgetown.org

Don your cowboy hats and boots and head on over to San Gabriel Park to experience an authentic Longhorn cattle drive. Learn about life in the past through hands-on activities and western living history camps. You’ll have a chance to enjoy a cowboy breakfast cooked over an open fire, listen to western music and play at the Children’s Corral. The event wraps up with the Cattleman’s Ball later that night at the Community Center.

upthechisholmtrail.org

GHOSTS ON THE SQUARE

October 23 — 24 & 30 — 31, 2015 Listen to tales of ghostly adventures around the Square during these docent-led tours of downtown Georgetown. Tours leave from The Williamson Museum every half-hour each night. Advanced ticket purchase is recommended since tours fill up quickly. Tour times and tickets are available online.

williamsonmuseum.org

LIGHTING OF THE SQUARE November 27, 2015

Come experience the magic as we kick off the holiday season with our annual Lighting of the Square, traditionally held at dusk on the Friday after Thanksgiving.

Sing along with the Austin Carolers to your favorite holiday tunes and warm your tummy with cookies and hot chocolate.

visitgeorgetown.com

EVENTS

IN GEORGETOWN SUN CITY KIWANIS CLUB HOLIDAY HOME TOUR December 4 – 6, 2015

The annual Sun City Holiday Home Tour includes six professionally decorated homes.

These homes feature interiors styled with the assistance of a designer, as well as the homeowner’s own furniture and collectables from around the world. From modern to traditional, we are sure that you will leave with a little inspiration for your own home.

suncitykiwanisgt.org

CHRISTMAS STROLL December 4 & 5, 2015

Block by block the Stroll unfolds.

Wander downtown and witness how the Square sparkles with vitality and Christmas charm. Offering foods and fashions, gifts and glitter, music and magic – everything to make the holidays bright. This exciting Christmas extravaganza kicks off the season with specialty gift stores, fashion jewelry, clothing, gourmet foods, decorations and ideas, home accessories and décor, food and wine sampling, arts and crafts, and of course, Santa!

GEORGETOWN HERITAGE SOCIETY HOLIDAY HOME TOUR December 12 & 13, 2015

Join the Heritage Society for its annual Holiday Home Tour.

Tour-goers enjoy charming, restored, historic homes decorated in holiday finery that celebrate the past and present of old Georgetown neighborhoods.

Docents give tours as well as offer information about the history of each residence with interesting facts and tidbits.

georgetownheritagesociety.com

thegeorgetownsquare.com

VisitGeorgetown.com

Texas | 78627 P.O. Box 409 | Georgetown, Georgetown.org B@ CV e: | p: 1(800) 436-8696

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