Things to Do

Rock the Day Away in Llano

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Tony Maples Photography

 

One for the money, two for the show, three to get ready, and go, go, go on over to Llano.

After polling 100 people about which spot in the Texas Hill Country they would most like to spend a weekend, Llano won by a landslide. Heck, why would you want to go anywhere else?

This quaint little town sits right on the Llano River. If you’re able to come in the winter, you’ll get a chance to see the majestic bald eagles who have chosen to migrate there. In the spring, you’ll be able to drive over and observe the ultimate beauty of the Texas bluebonnets along with other wildflowers in all their glory. Fall and summer are a great time of year for hiking, swimming, rope climbing, fishing, birding, hunting, camping, boating, sightseeing, and boning up on some good ole fashioned Texas history.

Visit Enchanted Rock

erock

Photo: Flickr/hiltonlieberum

First, y’all have to take a short hike up to Enchanted Rock, just 30 minutes from Llano on Ranch Road 965. There are more stories and legends about this one of a kind landmark than you could shake a stick at. It’s one of the oldest rocks on the planet, it’s enormous, and it’s beautiful. You can follow the path right up to the rounded face of Enchanted Rock to get the perfect view of Central Texas and the Hill Country.

Buchanan Dam

buchanandam

Photo: Flickr/trishzatx

Even though it’s not as big as Hoover Dam, Buchanan Dam and Lake Buchanan still can boast some bragging rights. The dam was built in the 1930s and no matter what time of day you plan to arrive, this place has an amazing view. The water sounds are wonderful and relaxing. Add this to your favorite “must see” list.

Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

cooperbbq

Photo: Flickr/danhatton

Don’t leave town without at least one or two stops at a spot a lot of folks say serves the best barbecue in the entire state of Texas. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que lets you choose your meat straight off the pit. It’s downright delicious, and you can’t beat the sides. You are promised to leave with a smile on your face. Watch the clock; this place is popular and lines begin forming early. It is definitely worth the wait.

White-Tailed Deer

white-tailed deer

Photo: Flickr/larrysmith

There are more white-tailed deer in Llano than any place else in the entire world. Now that’s quite a claim to fame, don’t you think? They are beautiful and so much fun to watch. It’s a great place to bring your camera and or your gun, whichever fits your fancy best.

Downtown Llano

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Photo: Flickr/jeffreyw.spencer

There is a museum in the historic Llano town square. You’ll love the shopping and unique little stores lining the streets of old downtown Llano.  The old jail and many other historical buildings are there for history buffs. Walking trails, parks, streams, and even river cruises tempt you to catch up and relax after all the adventures you’ve experienced.

You’ll have so much fun that you’ll end up coming back again, and your time will run out long before you’ve seen everything there is to see. It’s a great place to come for a day, weekend or even longer.