Johnson City is a charming Texas Hill Country town with locals that will make you feel right at home. It’s a quick 30 mins drive from Fredericksburg, and an hour drive from San Antonio, offering you the ideal spot for a weekend getaway. Plus, being an hour west from Austin, it’s easy enough to make Johnson City TX a stop on your travels through the state.
Let’s chat about the good times waiting for you. Whether it’s soaking up the vibes at LBJ State Park, getting your brain buzzing at the Science Mill, or visit the town’s historic jail, you will have a glimpse into the past.
This charming town of around 1700 residents is a special place that you’ll be glad you had the chance to visit for a quick trip. As you read through this guide, you’ll discover all the amazing things to do in Johnson City TX for your trip.
What Is Special About Johnson City?
- Johnson City is the hometown of Lyndon B. Johnson. The LBJ Ranch is where he was born and spent much of his life. He often held meetings here, making it known as another White House of sorts, and if you think about it, was a pioneer of the work-from-home movement. Johnson City is also his final resting place.
- Surprisingly, Johnson City wasn’t named after President Lyndon B. Johnson. It was actually named after LBJ’s father’s cousin, James Polk Johnson.
- If you can visit Johnson City during the holiday season, you will be in for an incredible treat. The Christmas Lights Spectacle takes place each year, transforming the town into a festive wonderland. This spectacular Christmas lights display is so renowned that it attracts many visitors from nearby areas.
11 Best Things to Do in Johnson City TX
Start planning your quick trip to TX Hill Country with a visit to Johnson City, TX. Grab some comfort food like the best chicken fried steak, Texas BBQ, and other delightful eats in between visiting these great little stops!
#1 – Pedernales Falls State Park
Pedernales Falls State Park is the place to experience nature in Johnson City, Texas. When the weather is warm, the Pedernales River offers a great swimming spot to cool off. You could start with a hike first with options that range from easy to challenging.
The Twin Falls Nature Trail is one of the best hiking trails that gives you a stunning view of the falls. Wolf Mountain Trails winds around the mountains, canyons, and provides river access through the natural pools. Keep active with kayaking and mountain biking, or take a more relaxed approach with bird watching.
There’s even a bird blind that makes it easy to spot endangered nesters including the golden-cheeked warbler. Families and couples alike may prefer horseback riding, though the perfect stop for photo opportunities is in the butterfly garden.
#2 – Visit the Science Mill
If you are visiting Johnson City, Texas with the kids, then the Science Mill is something you must see. This educational experience brims with interactive exhibits and programs that make science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fun for children.
Some of the most beloved exhibits in Johnson City’s Science Mill include
- The fractalarium which unites science and art; understanding how live animals use camouflage; robotics deep in the sea with oceanic drones
- The paludarium with an incredible swamp ecosystem, and a virtual reality experience called the Jurassic Flight that transports visitors to what it was like in the prehistoric era. Even adults will be fascinated with the interesting exhibits here.
#3– Visit the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
Another must-do activity for all ages in Johnson City, Texas is to take a tour of the LBH Ranch and the President Lyndon Johnson National Historical Park, often called the Texas White House. The Johnson family donated the Texas White House at LBJ State Park, allowing it to become a part of the National Park Service. Despite this 1972 donation, Lady Bird lived in it until her passing in 2007. Visitors get to see Johnson’s home that resides next to the Pedernales River. President Johnson once conducted presidential business here and plenty of world leaders made their way to this site.
The driving tour around the ranch is a great way to see it all when you’re pressed for time. There’s also a hangar and air strip that made it easier for President Johnson to get to and from Washington DC when he was the country’s leader. When you first arrive to the President Lyndon Johnson State Park, you’ll notice the shady oak trees and longhorns on the land that create a distinctive look. The park rangers add to the vibe by dressing in period clothing, sharing stories of what it was like back in the 1860s. In fact, if you have any questions at all about President Johnson, his life, his family, or this
If you have the time, make sure you try your hand at gathering eggs, churning real butter, or tending the garden, making this historic site a living history farm of sorts. You can also roam the trails and catch a glimpse of bison, or stop by the visitor center for some fantastic souvenirs.
#4 – Boyhood Home of LBJ
LBJ’s boyhood home is another place to go once you are back in town. The Johnson Boyhood Home was where President Johnson resided from age 5 until he finished high school. Built by President Johnson’s grandparents in the 1880s, the family moved to Johnson’s boyhood home after living in Stonewall. The furnishings still remain from the 1920s when the family called this rural Texas place their home.
#5 – Hike the Johnson Settlement Trail
In Johnson’s hometown of Johnson City, Texas, the Johnson Settlement Trail is a great way to get exercise out in the open air. This short trail is scenic and full of learning opportunities. It’s also quick to get through, and easy for walkers of all ages and skill levels.
On this trail, you’ll see the log cabin, barns, cooler house, and windmill still standing from the 1860s. A modern exhibit center gives you more to learn about the cattle business and how those in the Texas Hill Country survived. In total, the trail, which takes you from start to finish in a self-guiding way, is less than a mile in length.
#6 – Visit the Local Wineries
Johnson City, Texas is along US Highway 290, known as wine road, a place brimming with wineries in Texas Hill Country. Think of it as the Texas wine country, where you can sample wines made with only Texas grapes or ones from other states. If you love wine, visiting wineries should be on your list. Here are just a few of them to try though Johnson City in Blanco County has plenty more of them including the entire stretch on Highway 290 with Ron Yates Wines, Zero Zero Wine, and Hye Meadow Winery.
- 290 Wine Castle: Sitting on 11 acres of Texas Hill Country in Johnson City, Texas, this family-owned castle of wine is one place you simply must see. Not only is it stunning, but it’s also known for some of the best wines in Texas. Grab some cheese to pair with your tasting or a wood-fired pizza to nibble on while enjoying this sublime view. The dungeon chocolate is another item you will want to make sure you taste during your visit.
- Farmhouse Vineyards Marketplace & Tipsy Trailer: Texas grapes are what they use at the Farmhouse Vineyards Marketplace and Tipsy Trailer. Enjoy an array of varietals out of the wine tasting trailer, a converted 1978 Airstream!
- Texas Hills Vineyards: The vines at Texas Hills Vineyards were planted in 1995, which started thanks to the Gilstraps who found the land to resemble the Tuscan countryside. It’s like a slice of Tuscany in Texas, complete with a tasting room. Vineyard tours are also available, and it is recommended you enjoy both for the best experience.
- Alex Anthony Vineyards: Johnson City, Texas is also home to Alex Anthony Vineyards, located next to the Blanco Courthouse. It’s a cozy place with friendly people that welcome you in like family. The food is top notch too with stone baked pizzas and other classic comfort foods.
#7 – Visit Pecan Street Brewing for a Drink
Head to the Old Blanco County Supply and Hardware Building to have a drink at Pecan Street Brewing. Put this stop on your itinerary after you’ve spent the day exploring Johnson City, Texas and join the locals. It’s still very much the gathering place it has always been, but now it offers craft beer brewed on site for your pleasure. If you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s the perfect spot for tasty comfort foods. The biergarten outside is pet friendly and at night, it becomes a lively place on the weekends with live bands.
#8 – Texas Vintage Motorcycle Museum
Gordon Massie showcases his enormous collection of classic motorcycles in this Johnson City Museum. The Texas Vintage Motorcycle Museum, located just off Main Street, features motorcycles from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. Whether you’re an avid motorcycle enthusiast or not, these unique motorcycles are fascinating.
#9 – The Exotic Resort Zoo
The Exotic Resort Zoo is fun for the whole family in Johnson City, TX. You’ll have the chance to discover over 700 animals and more than 45 different species including antelope, gazelle, deer, camel, water buffalo, zebra and more. There are several tour options that will help you get the most out of your experience. If you have a dog along with you during your trip to this town, this is not the place to bring them. Even service animals can cause an uproar with the creatures that call this zoo home.
The zoo features a drive-thru safari, petting zoo, and guided tours. They also offer safari cabins if you’d prefer to stay the night, which includes a tour in the price. It’s a fun place that is perfect for animal lovers.
#10 – Shop in The Town Square
The Town Square is the place to visit in Johnson City, TX if you want to do a little shopping. Here are a few stops to check out, though there are plenty of other stores too!
- Old Annex Market: At the Old Annex Market, you’ll find over 20 different vendor booths. Home décor, handcrafted jewelry, and upcycled creations will make for a great memento from your visit.
- Vintage 205: Antique lovers must stop by Vintage 205, located on Main Street. There are tons of vintage items for sale, including furniture, baskets, old signs, and much more.
- Pearl Goods: Pearl Goods specializes in eclectic items that are incredibly rare. You’ll find repurposed home goods to add that special touch to your décor. Every glimpse will remind you of Johnson City!
#11 – Visit Texas Art House
If art galleries are your pleasure, you’ll love the contemporary works you’ll find at Texas Art House. This diverse gallery features the works of renowned Texas artists. Throughout the year, new exhibitions arrive that make different topics the point of focus. It is a great way to enjoy the culture in the country, and this friendly venue is quite often a favorite stop for visitors.
Conclusion
Johnson City is a bit of a marvel since it’s a small town with plenty of rich history. Those who are fascinated with American presidents or the past will find it a learning experience. However, you don’t need to be a history buff to adore this little place. There are plenty of modern things to do in Johnson City that are great for families, couples, or even groups of friends that will bring out your sense of adventure or even help you unwind.
Those living in nearby cities will find Johnson City a wonderful romantic place to visit for all the wineries. It’s more accessible and affordable than a trip to California’s Napa Valley, and the locals are friendlier too. Make sure you plan your trip soon to enjoy this charming nostalgic town!
