Things To Do
in Georgetown
Georgetown, Texas sits about 30 miles north of Austin along the San Gabriel River, blending Hill Country scenery with a well-preserved 19th-century downtown. The centerpiece is the 1870 Williamson County Courthouse with a tall clock tower that anchors a picturesque square dotted with boutiques, eateries, and live music. Outdoor lovers will enjoy river trails, parks, and easy access to nearby nature reserves and cottages along the Hill Country corridor.
The town offers a friendly, family-friendly vibe with a growing arts and dining scene set against charming brick storefronts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Georgetown, admiring the historic architecture and charming boutiques. Don't forget to stop by the old courthouse for a quick photo op and some interesting historical insights.
For lunch, head to a local eatery that specializes in Southern cuisine, trying out some classic favorites. After your meal, visit the Georgetown Museum to explore exhibitions that highlight the rich history and culture of the area. Take your time wandering through the nearby parks, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
As the sun begins to set, make your way to the waterfront for stunning views of the Potomac River. Dine at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and a vibrant ambiance. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the river promenade, where you can enjoy the evening breeze and the twinkling lights of the city.
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at a café overlooking the waterfront. Then, rent a kayak or paddleboard for an adventurous outing on the Potomac River, where you can enjoy the scenic views of Georgetown from the water. The calm morning waters provide a perfect setting for some relaxation and fun.
After your water activities, grab lunch at a nearby food truck offering local favorites, like crab cakes or BBQ. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic C&O Canal, where you can walk or bike along the scenic towpath, taking in views of the canal and the lush surroundings. Pause to watch the ducks and enjoy the tranquility of the natural habitat.
In the evening, return to the waterfront for a sunset cruise that showcases the beauty of the city skyline. Enjoy light appetizers and a refreshing drink as you glide along the river, capturing breathtaking photos of the sunset. Conclude your day with dessert at a nearby gelato shop, indulging in a sweet treat to round off your adventure.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏡Rent for 1 bedroom (city center) | $1,400-2,000 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $120-240 |
| 🚗Gas per gallon | $2.80-3.60 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic downtown charm
- Access to river trails and nature
- Friendly, family-friendly atmosphere
- Growing arts and dining scene
- Limited nightlife compared to nearby Austin
- Hot summers with humidity
- Somewhat car-dependent outside the downtown core
Places to Visit in Georgetown
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic photo subject featuring the clock tower, especially striking at golden hour.
Scenic river bridges and parklands along the San Gabriel provide colorful composition opportunities.
Dramatic underground formations with lighting that lends itself to unique cave photography.
Historic campus architecture and manicured greens offer classic university photography.
Historic storefronts and neon signs create a nostalgic street photography setting.
Food in Georgetown
Georgetown Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Texas-style smoked beef often served with sides like coleslaw or potato salad; available at local BBQ spots.
Must-Try!
A Texas staple served with gravy; a favorite at local diners and diners like The Monument Cafe.
Border-inspired flavors featured at many Mexican eateries and family-run diners.
Classic Southern dessert common in local bakeries and diners; pair with coffee.
Slow-smoked ribs with tangy sauce; a common offering at barbecue joints around town.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, jams, and crafts in a community setting.
Occasional street food stalls and food trucks around the historic square offering eclectic bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Georgetown residents are friendly and polite; small talk is common in casual settings, but rude questions are best avoided early on.
Tipping nearly always expected for service workers in restaurants, bars, and taxis.
Casual-but-neat attire is typical for most venues; dress a bit nicer for nicer restaurants and events.
Safety
Tipping in Georgetown
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, standard tips are 15-20% before tax; higher for exceptional service. For bartenders and service staff, tips are customary.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common in most venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Georgetown summers are hot and humid; hydrate, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening; occasional thunderstorms are possible.
Mild temperatures with blooming wildflowers make walking the square and river trails particularly pleasant.
Cool daytime temps and comfortable evenings ideal for outdoor dining, photography, and town events.
Milder winters with occasional cold fronts; layer up for outdoor exploration and enjoy indoor attractions.
Georgetown at Night
Hiking in Georgetown
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and creekside trails with wildlife viewing opportunities.
Multi-use trail along the San Gabriel River suitable for walking and cycling.
Underground hiking and cave exploration with guided tours.
Airports
How to reach Georgetown by plane.
A small public airport primarily for general aviation; no commercial service.
Major regional airport about 28-40 miles south; broad airline options and short domestic connections.
Regional airport about 60-70 miles north; serves domestic flights and regional carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Forms the majority of the population in Georgetown.
A sizable and growing community represented in local culture and business.
Smaller share within the overall population.
Growing presence; reflects increasing regional diversity.
Includes multiple smaller groups and mixed heritage residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school and college football hold strong local followings; Southwestern University competes in NCAA Division III.
Indoor community events and college games are popular year-round.
Several public and semi-private courses in the Georgetown area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Georgetown.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Georgetown restaurants offer vegetarian options. Look for veggie burritos, salads, and sides, and ask to swap meat dishes for plant-based mains or sides at farm-to-table spots.