Need a smoky, flavorful escape in the Texas Hill Country? Head to Lockhart! Known as the Barbecue Capital of Texas, Lockhart offers mouthwatering smoked meats, a walkable historic downtown, and scenic countryside charm. Whether you’re tasting brisket or admiring Victorian architecture, Lockhart serves up bold flavor with small-town soul.
Lockhart, TX Highlights:
- For Foodies: Devour legendary BBQ at Kreuz Market or Black’s – Iconic pits and Texas-sized flavor from historic smokehouses.
- For History Buffs: Explore the Caldwell County Courthouse – Marvel at this 1894 Romanesque Revival masterpiece anchoring the town square.
- For Shoppers: Browse boutiques and antiques downtown – Local finds, vintage treasures, and handmade goods in a historic setting.
- For Couples: Take a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country – Rolling roads, bluebonnets, and old-fashioned charm just outside town.
- For Families: Picnic and play at Lockhart State Park – Hike wooded trails, swim, or enjoy a round of golf in a peaceful setting.
When I like to visit Lockhart, TX
The best time to visit Lockhart is during spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), when mild weather makes for ideal BBQ hopping, festival strolling, and time outdoors. Summer can be hot but still lively, especially around Fourth of July festivities.
My tips for getting to Lockhart, TX
- If you are traveling by car: Lockhart is located on U.S. Route 183, about 35 minutes south of Austin and 1 hour northeast of San Antonio.
- By Plane: Fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), then rent a car for the easy 30-minute drive to Lockhart.
Where I like to stay in Lockhart, TX
- Recommended for Families: Best Western Lockhart Hotel & Suites – Pool access, breakfast, and close to parks and barbecue joints.
- For Couples: The Ellison House – A stylish and historic guesthouse with modern decor in a classic Texas home.
- For Unique Lodging: Kreuz House – An Airbnb stay right across from the pit, with rustic-chic style and BBQ bragging rights.
Best Things to Do in Lockhart, TX
1. Gaslight-Baker Theatre
"Catch a live show and enjoy an affordable night of small-town charm." - VI
The history of the Gaslight-Baker Theatre goes back into the booming 1920s when pleasure and luxury were at its peak. Though ownership has changed over the decades, the theater is still a magnificent piece of history. At first, it showed films, but today, guests are treated to live performances.
Shows still harken back to the early 20th century, with some performances like a USO tribute show and a vaudeville show. Each year, the Vaudeville show changes to provide a unique experience for visitors. While a cry room used to stand in the lobby, a concession stand is now in its place.
Gaslight-Baker Theatre, 216 S. Main Street, Lockhart, TX 78644, Phone: 512-376-5653, website
2. Lockhart State Park
"Hike scenic trails and enjoy a relaxing weekend trip filled with nature." - VI
Typically, state parks do not bring to mind a beautifully manicured golf course, by at Lockhart State Park, there is a 9-hole course. This golf course is great for beginners and long-time players, offering affordable fees and equipment rental. There’s much more to this state park, with picnic areas, hiking, and camping areas open.
If camping is on your mind, there are both full-hookup campsites and more rustic ones. Fishing is also available, with fishing gear available for loan. Also, visitors do not need a fishing license. After a warm day of activity, check out the on-site swimming pool to cool and relax you.
Lockhart State Park, 2012 State Park Road, Lockhart, TX 78644, Phone: 512-398-3479, Map
3. Manny Gammage’s Texas Hatters
I like:
"Try on custom hats and explore an unusual piece of Texas tradition." - VI
No visit to Lockhart would be complete without a trip to Manny Gammage’s Texas Hatters. As the name implies, this is a hat shop highly sought out by celebrities, politicians, and tourists. Though the hat store opened many years ago, and the original Gammage has passed, his apprentice still makes the personalized hats with lifetime warranties. With famous customers, like President Ronald Regan and Willie Nelson, in your company, why wouldn’t you be interested in one of the felt or straw hats made just for you? Trying to keep up with the times, Gammage’s now takes online orders with specific instructions for measurements, but nothing beats going in to be measured by a pro.
Manny Gammage’s Texas Hatters , 911 S. Commerce Street, Lockhart, TX 78644, Phone: 512-398-4287, Map
Recommended Activities for Families
4. Kreuz Market
"Savor legendary barbecue and enjoy a fun, family-friendly food stop." - VI
Just as important to the Texas culture as cowboy hats is authentic Texas barbeque. Kreuz Market has been serving up smoked meats and authentic BBQ since 1900. Thought the generations have passed, and the business has moved buildings, the same family still owns and run the market/restaurant. Originally, Kreuz Market was a grocery store with a butcher, whose mission was to use animals nose to tail. Roy Perez has been the pitmaster for over 30 years and insists that BBQ not be pretty or dressed up. Though sides are offered on the menu, don’t bother looking for forks or sauce, as these are not meant to be used on Kreuz’s meats.
Kreuz Market, 619 N. Colorado Street, Lockhart, TX 78644, Phone: 512-398-2361, Map
5. The Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches
"See rare timepieces and explore exciting attractions for curious minds." - VI
Today’s students can often be complaining that it is difficult to read the clocks in grandparents’ homes. Digital is the wave of the future and what the younger generation know. The Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches is dedicated to preserving the beauty of the horological arts. Not only does the museum contain some beautiful clock and watch masterpieces, but there is also a hands-on restoration center to visit. Some timepieces are over 300 years old from around the world. An education center teaches the younger generations about horological appreciation, while the Tower Clock Initiative has members restoring and maintaining clock towers around Texas.
The Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches, 109 E. San Antonio Street, Lockhart, TX 78644, Phone: 512-658-3853, Map
6. Dr. Eugene Clark Library
"Admire historic architecture and enjoy a quiet retirement moment with local history." - VI
Dr. Eugene Clark was a New Orleans native but spent at least 13 years practicing medicine in Lockhart. During this time, his love for the city grew, and in his will, he left a stipend for the building and maintenance of the library in Lockhart. Today’s patrons can check out digital magazines, e-books, hard copy books, and research books. Dr. Eugene Clark Library is currently the oldest running library in the state of Texas, and today’s visitors can spend time checking out reading material, joining in library-sponsored programs, or just finding a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the history.
Dr. Eugene Clark Library, 217 S. Main Street, Lockhart, TX 78644, Phone: 512-398-3223, Map
If you are interested in local events:
- For BBQ Fans: Lockhart’s “BBQ Capital of Texas” Celebrations (various dates) – Enjoy pitmaster events and food-focused festivals year-round.
- For Families: Chisholm Trail Roundup (June) – Parade, carnival, live music, and rodeo in Lockhart’s biggest summer celebration.
- For Music Lovers: Lone Star Loop Fest (fall) – Regional music acts perform across venues during this grassroots music weekend.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Lockhart, TX:
- For Beer Fans: San Marcos (25–30 min) – Explore craft breweries, float the river, or stroll The Square.
- For Culture and Nightlife: Austin (30–35 min) – Enjoy live music, food trucks, museums, and more in the capital city.
- For Antique Lovers: Luling (15–20 min) – Discover watermelon-themed fun, a historic downtown, and quirky shops.
- For Nature: Palmetto State Park (25 min) – Swampy boardwalks, fishing, and hiking in a unique Central Texas ecosystem.
- For Wine Tasting: Driftwood (30 min) – Sip wines at Hill Country vineyards with scenic views and rustic patios.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Lockhart located?
- Lockhart is pretty much in the heart of Texas. This small city sits between Austin and San Antonio.
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Why is Lockhart known as the barbecue capital of Texas?
- It is considered the barbecue capital of Texas and the birthplace of smoky meats.
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Has Lockhart been featured in movies and TV shows?
- Because of its quintessential Texas appearance, it has been the location set for many Hollywood films and television shows, such as What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?
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What should visitors do in Lockhart?
- When visiting Lockhart, be sure to check out all that the city and its friendly residents offer.
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