Seeing the bluebonnets in bloom is a gorgeous sight in The Texas Hill Country. Each year in early April, we see Texans and tourists flock to find the best spot to take in these beautiful flowers. While the bluebonnets are our state's claim to fame, don't forget about other blooming wildflowers like the Indian paintbrush, Indian blanket, pink evening primrose, Mexican hat, winecups, black-eyed Susan, coreopsis, and more. We've rounded up some of our favorites and best-known spots that are available to visit. As you venture out, be sure to stop at your favorite local winery!
Bluebonnet House - Marble Falls, TX
Built-in the mid-19th century, the Bluebonnet house has two-stories of limestone and in early spring is surrounded by fields of bluebonnets. Head out to Marble Falls the turn right off of Highway 281 North after you pass through the town. The scenery is gorgeous, and the vibrant color of the wildflowers make for stunning photos and a breathtaking view. Enjoy the juxtaposition of old world history and newly sprung flowers.
Wineries on the way:
Pedernales State Park - Johnson City, TX
Head out to Johnson City to take in the spectacular display of Texas Hill Country wildflowers at Pedernales State Park. You'll see bluebonnets, pink evening primroses, and winecups. Allot an entire day as there is plenty to explore with several hiking and mountain bike trails, along with a river. Visit the Texas State Park website to purchase your permit before you visit. As an added benefit, you'll pass several wineries as you drive out and back from the park!
Wineries close by:
Willow City Loop - Willow City, TX
Just outside of Fredericksburg, Will City loop is a 13-mile two-lane stretch of some of the best wildflowers in Texas. Take State Highway 16 North from Fredericksburg approximately 13 miles and turn east on Ranch Road 1323 to Willow City. Roadside property along this route is private, so no wandering into the fields. Stay in the car or park to walk this stunning color-cloaked stretch of road. You'll see everything from bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush to firewheels and poppies.
Wineries close by:
Kerrville, TX
At the southern end of the Texas Hill Country lies Kerrville, a small Texas town of 20,000 that sits on the Edwards Plateau ecoregion. The beauty of Kerrville is evident with its rugged stony hills, broad divides, rangy cedar, towering cypress, and the beautiful Guadalupe River. In springtime, the town comes to life as the wildflowers bloom along the highway.
Wineries close by:
Bring a little brightness to your day by getting outside with a day trip to see the beauty of Texas wildflowers! Although picking wildflowers isn't illegal, we don't recommend it. Leave them for others to enjoy and for our great pollinating critters, who help spread seeds to ensure next year's bloom is even better. Also, be mindful of where you step. In the same way that we don't want you to pick flowers, we also don't want you to trample them. Crushing plants repeatedly can destroy the flowers. Let's keep Texas beautiful! To stay up to date on the latest bloom news, give the Texas Department of Transportation Wildflower Hotline a call (800-452-9292) before your trip for even more up-to-date information.
