Points of Interest between Austin, Texas to Briarcliff, Texas

picture of Austin, Texas

The Top Places to See When Driving from Austin, Texas to Briarcliff, Texas

If you're planning a road trip from Austin, Texas to Briarcliff, Texas, there are plenty of sights to see along the way. From natural beauty to historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We’ve compiled a list of the top places to see during your drive to help make your road trip one to remember.

Before we get started, we should mention that the drive from Austin to Briarcliff is approximately 30 miles long and takes about 45 minutes. That being said, you may want to plan some extra time in your schedule to visit some of these amazing places.

Natural Beauty Galore

  1. Pace Bend Park - This park is located on Lake Travis and offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding foothills. Whether you like fishing, kayaking, or just soaking up the sun, Pace Bend Park has activities for everyone.
  2. Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge - This refuge is home to endangered species like the golden-cheeked warbler and the black-capped vireo. You'll be able to see a mix of grasslands, canyons, and forests as you drive through or hike some of the trails.
  3. Hamilton Pool Preserve - This natural pool is formed by a 50-foot waterfall and a collapsed grotto. The water is a beautiful emerald green color and makes for a great swimming spot. While reservations are required to visit, it's worth it to see the stunning beauty of this place.
  4. Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center - Located west of Austin, the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center offers guided tours of a canyon, grotto, and cave. During your visit, you'll be able to see waterfalls, pools, and a variety of plants and animals that live in the area.
  5. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area - This park is home to a huge pink granite rock that stands out in the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the top for sweeping views of the Texas Hill Country, or take a guided tour to learn more about the geological features of the area.

Historic Landmarks

  1. Johnson City - This small town is the birthplace of former U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson. The town features a variety of attractions related to Johnson's life, including his boyhood home, a museum, and the "Texas White House," which was his residence during his presidency.
  2. Blanco - Another small town along the route, Blanco is known for its charming downtown area and historic courthouse. The courthouse was built in 1885 and now serves as a museum highlighting the history of the area.
  3. Pioneer Farms - This living history museum in Austin offers visitors the chance to step back in time and experience life in the 1800s. The museum features several restored buildings, like a log cabin and a blacksmith shop, and regularly hosts events and demonstrations.
  4. LBJ Presidential Library and Museum - Located in Austin, the LBJ Presidential Library and Museum offers insight into the life and career of Lyndon B. Johnson. The museum features exhibits on various aspects of his presidency, including the Vietnam War and his work on civil rights.
  5. State Capitol - Also located in Austin, the Texas State Capitol is a must-see for any history buff. The building is the largest state capitol in the United States and features stunning architecture, beautiful artwork, and a variety of exhibits on Texas history.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the many amazing places to see on a road trip from Austin to Briarcliff. Whether you're a nature lover or a history buff, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So hit the road, take in the sights, and make some memories that will last a lifetime.