Cherokee, Texas: Great Things to See and Do in This Charming Town

Situated approximately an hour’s drive north of Fredericksburg, the town of Cherokee is a Texas hidden gem. First of all, the trip to this quaint location is nothing short of beautiful. The scenery en route from either Austin (two hours away) or Brownwood (almost an hour’s drive north) is so scenic, it’s sure to refresh your spirits! Your arrival in this unincorporated San Saba County community, via the back roads of Texas, will have you breathing the fresh country air, not to mention a sigh of relief in knowing you’re right where you need to be. It’s a place where nature and the outdoors meet poetically with good food and good people, and more than a few great things to see and do.

1. Experience the Great Outdoors

Photo: @kelstagram via Twenty20

Cherokee is famed for its breathtaking bluebonnets in the springtime, but it’s also a wonderful place to simply get out and “be” in the fresh air. Hunting is a huge pastime here, and in the fall, hunters looking for that prize whitetail buck travel from across the state to try their hand at it. San Saba County is recognized as being in the top five Texas counties for the sport, and a number of local ranches maintain great business in hunts and hosting sportsmen and women. There’s also wild hog hunting and turkey in the area, if deer isn’t your game. Those unable to stay right in Cherokee can also find accommodations in nearby Llano.

2. Take a Break & Chat With the Locals

Stop in at the Cherokee Corner Café to see what’s cooking and what’s up in the town of Cherokee! Here you’ll find Hunts Brothers pizza, burgers, homemade pimiento cheese and chicken salad sandwiches, and tasty salads to cool you down on a warm summer day. The conversation, service, and food amounts to a great stop on your tour through a unique part of Texas.

3. Have a Sit-Down Meal at Southside BBQ

Photo: @djrage via Twenty20

Although actual family dining choices are few in Cherokee, they are outstanding! Southside BBQ serves up traditional Texas barbecue in fine style, and their sides can’t be beat… but especially their dessert! The banana pudding is actually raved about on Yelp reviews. Open on weekends and featuring a variety of smoked meats together with potato salad, coleslaw, stuffed baked potatoes, and pickle sides, this place has a great following, which is always a good sign!