On one hand, Georgetown is less than an hour away from Austin, Texas. On the other hand, it feels like it couldn’t be further away from the live music capital of the world. Drive thirty minutes away from Austin and you’ll transition from skyscrapers to a town square that feels like you’ve truly taken a step back in time. With a population just shy of 60,000, Georgetown is a much-needed change of pace in today’s busy and noisy world.

If you’re not a Texan, this may be your first time hearing about Georgetown. However, it is home to the ‘The Most Beautiful Town Square’ in the state and it’s known as the Red Poppy capital. Georgetown has made its claim to fame with several blockbusters being filmed in the area, including Dazed and Confused, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, and more. The Southwestern University campus is located in Georgetown and it was the first college built in Texas back in 1840. Needless to say, there’s more to Georgetown than meets the eye.

I truly enjoyed my recent solo trip to Georgetown and I’d highly recommend it for a quick day-trip or weekend get-away. Keep reading my guide to discover all that Georgetown has to offer.

Where To Play In Georgetown

Explore the Underworld at Innerspace Caverns

If you’re looking for a unique adventure, then Innerspace Caverns is a must-visit. People visit from all over the world to see this otherworldly cave that is nearly 5 miles deep and 20 million years old. The caverns were discovered by drillers in 1963 as they set out to build IH-35 just above it. You’ll witness some of the original drilling holes among stalactites or stalagmites as you wander through the dark cave. You can sign up for a 75-minute Adventure guided tour or you can get down and dirty(headlamp, helmet, and all) with their 4-hour long Wild Cave Tour. Either way, you can’t go to Georgetown without touring the Innerspace Caverns. You may book your tour ahead of time here.

Go Shopping In Georgetown’s Downtown Square

Georgetown boasts the ‘Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas’ and it’s easy to see why. The Victorian historic district will make you feel like you’ve been transported to another era. The square is full of restaurants, wineries, bars, and shops for you to enjoy. As there are no open container laws in Georgetown, I personally loved exploring the square with a cup of wine in hand. A few of my favorite shops included Mikey V’s Hot Sauce Shop, The Baked Bear, Georgetown Winery!

Stroll Through San Gabriel Park

Get active at the San Gabrial Park which offers over 9 miles of trails for you to hike, bike, or run. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can go kayaking or fishing with San Gabriel Sports.

Go Swimming In Georgetown’s Blue Hole

The Texas Hill Country is full of swimming holes and Georgetown is no exception. This lagoon is the perfect spot to unwind, soak up the sun, and spend time outdoors! While I didn’t get the chance to visit, I’m looking forward to returning for a swim when I return to the area.

Where To Eat In Georgetown

El Monumento

When it comes to Tex-Mex, El Monumento just get’s it. Do yourself a favor and order the prickly pear margarita!

600 Degrees Pizza

You can order a slice of pizza that’s bigger than your face at 600 degrees pizza without skimping on quality. They serve pizza, craft beer, and wings. Honestly, what more could you ask for?

Monument Cafe

You know I couldn’t create this guide without suggesting a spot for brunch, right? Well, Monument Cafe is THE place to go for a tasty breakfast or brunch menu. If you visit on the weekend, you’ll get to see live music in their beer garden.

Sweet Lemon

This farm-to-table cafe offers fresh eats in a bright green cottage that is beyond insta-worthy. Aesthetics aside, their pastries are worth the visit alone. If you needed any more convincing, then you should know that they’ve been voted the best dessert place in town.

Stay At The Sheraton

If you decide to spend the weekend in Georgetown, there’s one place you should stay and it’s the Sheraton. The Sheraton Georgetown is the epitome of small-town sophistication. It is one of few full-service hotels in the area and it is simply gorgeous! There’s a nearby running trail, a 24-hour fitness center, a swimming pool set among Rivery Park, and an onsite restaurant that will have you coming back for more. You can’t leave without ordering the Charcuterie board from Brix + Ale, which offers rich honey that is sourced at the Sheraton. Thank me later!