Burnet Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more in Burnet with our informative and helpful travel guide.


Introduction to Burnet

If you’re seeking a charming small town in the heart of Texas, look no further than Burnet. Located in central Hill Country, Burnet boasts a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality. This travel guide will take you through the top things to see and do in Burnet, where to stay and eat, and how to get around the town.

List of Places to Visit in Burnet

There is no shortage of attractions in Burnet, from local museums to outdoor adventures. Here’s a list of places to visit in Burnet:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Croghan Museum: This museum showcases the history of Burnet and Texas through exhibits, artifacts, and events.
  • Highland Lakes Squadron Museum: This aviation museum displays a collection of military aircraft dating back to World War II.
  • The Texas Hill Country Olive Co.: A unique attraction, visitors can tour the orchard and see how olive oil is made.
  • Historic downtown Burnet: This area boasts a variety of historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.

Natural Attractions of Burnet: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Inks Lake State Park: With over 1,200 acres of land, Inks Lake offers opportunities for swimming, boating, hiking, and more.
  • Longhorn Cavern State Park: Explore underground caves and take guided tours through stunning rock formations.
  • Canyon of the Eagles: A nature park that features hiking trails, camping spots, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Lake Buchanan: The second largest of the Highland Lakes, here you can fish, swim, rent boats, and enjoy the scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Burnet

Burnet is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of trails for hiking and biking. Some popular routes include:

  • Colorado Bend State Park: With over 32 miles of trails, visitors can explore waterfalls, caves, and scenic overlooks.
  • Reveille Peak Ranch: This park contains over 10 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails through rugged terrain.
  • Lake Georgetown: This recreational area has over 26 miles of multi-use trails, suitable for hiking and biking.
  • Grelle Recreation Area: Considered one of the most scenic parks in Burnet County, visitors can hike through rolling hills and hardwood forests.

Best Things to Do in Burnet: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Burnet has plenty of other activities and tours to offer:

  • Air tours of the Highland Lakes: Get a bird’s eye view of the lakes and surrounding countryside with a scenic flight.
  • Wine tasting: Visit local vineyards and wineries for samples of the region’s finest wines.
  • Fishing: Cast a line on Lake Buchanan or any of the other Highland Lakes for a chance at catching a variety of fish.
  • Horseback Riding: Enjoy the beauty of the Texas Hill Country while riding on horseback.
  • Scenic Drives: Take a drive through the countryside to appreciate the stunning beauty of the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Burnet

If you have a week to spend in Burnet, here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Visit Fort Croghan Museum and tour downtown Burnet.
  • Day 2: Spend the day at Inks Lake State Park, hiking and swimming.
  • Day 3: Take a guided tour of Longhorn Cavern State Park, followed by a visit to Highland Lakes Squadron Museum.
  • Day 4: Rent a boat and enjoy the waters of Lake Buchanan.
  • Day 5: Explore the different hiking and biking trails in Colorado Bend State Park.
  • Day 6: Take a scenic drive through the countryside and visit local wineries for wine tasting.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy the scenic views at Canyon of the Eagles.

Food and Drink Scene of Burnet

Burnet has a burgeoning food and drink scene, with restaurants serving up a variety of cuisines and local wines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • BBQ brisket: Texas is famous for its BBQ, and Burnet is no exception. Head to a local BBQ joint and try some brisket.
  • Fried catfish: A southern staple, catfish is a popular dish in Burnet.
  • Enchiladas: With a strong Mexican influence in Texas, enchiladas are a popular and delicious option in Burnet.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: A number of wineries and vineyards in the area offer tastings and tours of their facilities, allowing visitors to sample local wines.
  • Craft beer: Burnet is home to several breweries that specialize in small-batch craft beers.

Where to Stay in Burnet: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From hotels to bed and breakfasts, Burnet has a variety of options for lodging. Here are some suggestions:

  • Canyon of the Eagles: This nature resort offers campground and cabin options, as well as hotel-style rooms.
  • Best Western Post Oak Inn: This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Burnet, making it a convenient option for exploring the area.
  • Painted Sky Inn: A boutique inn that offers stunning views of Lake Buchanan.

What to Buy in Burnet: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a unique souvenir or gift from your trip to Burnet? Here are some ideas:

  • Olive oil: The Texas Hill Country Olive Co. produces award-winning olive oil using their own locally grown olives.
  • Antiques: Burnet has a number of antique shops, offering a variety of vintage finds.
  • Local art: Several art galleries in Burnet feature the work of local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Burnet

Burnet is known for its friendly and hospitable residents, who often greet visitors with a warm welcome. Be sure to respect local customs and traditions, such as saying “ma’am” and “sir” when interacting with others.

Best Time to Visit Burnet

The best time to visit Burnet is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. Summers can be hot, while winters can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Burnet

Do:

  • Do visit local museums and historical attractions to learn about the town’s rich history.
  • Do take advantage of the area’s outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking.
  • Do try local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the Texas heat in the summer months.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t leave without trying some BBQ.

Safety and Health

Safety in Burnet

Burnet is generally a safe town, but visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking or exploring outdoor areas.

Health in Burnet

Burnet has several medical facilities, including a hospital and urgent care clinics. Be sure to bring any necessary medication, and stay hydrated during hot weather.

Getting to Burnet: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Burnet

  • Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (71 miles)
  • Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport (47 miles)

Bus Stations Near Burnet

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Marble Falls (15 miles)

Other Options

  • Car rental: A rental car is the best way to get around Burnet and the surrounding areas.
  • Taxi/Uber: Taxis and Uber are available in the area for those without a rental car.

How to Get Around in Burnet

The best way to get around Burnet is by car, either your own or a rental. Public transportation options are limited, so it’s best to have your own transportation.

Where to Go Next from Burnet: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations and excursions to take from Burnet, including:

  • Marble Falls: This nearby town has a charming downtown area, as well as lake activities and waterfalls.
  • Fredericksburg: Known for its German heritage and wineries, Fredericksburg is a great destination for a day trip.
  • Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: A popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, this state park features stunning rock formations.

Conclusion

Burnet is a hidden gem in the heart of Texas Hill Country. With its natural beauty, rich history, and friendly locals, it’s a destination worth exploring. Use this travel guide to plan your trip to Burnet and make the most of your time in this beautiful town.