It’s been more than a decade since Dripping Springs was named the “Wedding Capital of Texas” by the Legislature, but the title is still holding strong. With 35-plus wedding venues within 15 miles of downtown, the town of just over 10,000 residents has plenty of options for nuptials. It’s also home to nearly 30 wineries, distilleries, and breweries. A lot has changed since the first settlers arrived in the area in the 1840s. The town has grown slowly but steadily as a reliable pit stop on the road from Fredericksburg to Austin along State Highway 290. As the capital city’s population has increased in recent years, urban sprawl has brought more permanent residents to the once-sleepy suburb, skyrocketing Dripping Springs’ population by 500% since 2010. Outside of wine and weddings, travelers can cool off at Hamilton Pool Preserve and Reimers Ranch Park or head downtown for spots to shop, sip, and dine.
DISTANCE FROM
Austin
30 minutes
San Antonio
1.5 hours
Houston
3 hours
Dallas
3.5 hours
El Paso
8 hours
Stay
LUCKY ARROW RETREAT
Spend the night under the stars in a yurt, safari tent, or cabin. There are 41 options available, and the property backs up to a verdant view of the Hill Country. The recreation area has two pools, a beer garden, and two axe-throwing cages. Rates start at $150/night.
eat, DRINK, & SHOP
ROLLING IN THYME AND DOUGH
Right off SH 290, this locally owned café serves pastries, soups, and sandwiches in a rustic home setting. There’s also an expansive coffee and tea menu, vegan and gluten-free options, ample outdoor seating, and a selection of locally crafted gifts.
DRINK & SEE
HUDSON’S ON MERCER STREET
Every night offers something new at Hudson’s, the linchpin of Dripping Springs’ live music scene. Partake in trivia on alternating Wednesday nights, sing at open mic night on Thursdays, or see live music on Saturdays.
DRINK & EAT
TWISTED X BREWING CO.
This taproom offers an array of craft beers brewed on-site, from full-bodied lagers to hoppy IPAs. Sample a flight of 5-ounce pours in the tasting room and grab a snack at the food truck, which serves street tacos, smash burgers, and nachos.
SEE
FOUNDERS MEMORIAL PARK
The historical homestead of Dr. Joseph Pound, a founding member of the community, lies in the heart of Founders Memorial Park off Ranch Road 12. The park features a picnic pavilion, a lap pool, multiple football fields, and a playground. There’s also a trailhead connected to the park for hikers.
SHOP
SHOPPING ON MERCER STREET
A variety of clothing boutiques line Mercer Street, the heart of downtown. Starrs on Mercer and Vintage Soul offer colorful Southern styles, while other shops sell jewelry, kitchen essentials, and home goods.
