Marble Falls, Texas, is nestled in the rolling hills of Central Texas, also known as the Texas Hill Country, and is surrounded by many prestigious lakes, state parks, natural wonders, and dozens of wineries and breweries. It’s located about a 1-hour drive northwest of Austin and 1.5 hours from San Antonio.
I love exploring small towns with big adventures, and Marble Falls is that kind of place. If you’re wanting to get outdoors and explore nature, shop, dine, and drink wine or beer, you’re going to want to visit soon. Activities in Marble Falls are open year-round, and there are many — too many to see and do on one trip. But hey, anywhere in the Hill Country is worth a second trip!
To experience the Hill Country’s beautiful scenery and gorgeous views, you’ll want to avoid driving the interstate and take the backroads whenever possible. When we road trip to Marble Falls, we take scenic Highway 281 from Fort Worth to take in the Hill Country’s beauty and visit antique shops on the way. For a true Hill Country getaway, consider these nine things to do in beautiful Marble Falls as you’re making your plans.
1. Historic Downtown District
The Historic Downtown District is a quaint, charming part of Marble Falls that features unique, locally owned shops and some out-of-this-world handmade chocolates at Choccolatte’s. If you love antiques, art galleries, fine restaurants, and sweets, you’re in for a treat. It’s an easy walk from one end to the other. And, if wine is on your mind, you can order “a glass to go” at Fiesta Winery located under the oak tree in Old Oak Square and keep strolling down Main Street. For nostalgic treats that will bring you back to yesteryear, visit Ms Lollipop for some fun! Aww, that’s my kind of shopping!
Pro Tip: Lake Marble Falls is only a couple of blocks down Main Street and is easy to walk to. You can almost see the lake from Main Street, and once you’re there, the view is spectacular.
2. Lake Marble Falls
Did you know Marble Falls is right smack in the middle of the largest chain of lakes in the hill country? And, Lake Marble Falls is one of the freshwater lakes that form the Highland Lakes area chain. Explore from Lake Buchanan to Lake JBJ all the way down to Lake Travis and into the Colorado River. There are many activities offered here — in all of the lakes — such as swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, and kayaking.
If you’re looking for a park to have a fabulous picnic, Lakeside Park and Johnson Park are two close by. Dogs are always welcome in Marble Falls, and Westside Park has its own leash-free dog park (Ruff Park). On a beautiful day, it’s easy to spend all day on Lake Marble Falls.
Pro Tip: You can rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard from local outfitter Just Yakin’. They offer hourly rates on Marble Falls throughout the year, and they will bring their equipment to you.
3. Sweet Berry Farm
Sweet Berry Farm, a pick-your-own seasonal farm, offers two picking seasons: spring and fall. In the spring, you can pick your own vine-ripened strawberries and blackberries, feed the goats, have a picnic, and enjoy more family fun. In the fall, get pumped for pumpkins and cut-your-own flowers. Plus, in the fall, the farm offers hayrides, a Texas-shaped maze, stuff-a-scarecrow, and more fun activities for families. My grandson and I had so much fun the first day we were there that we went back the next day to stuff a scarecrow. That was the best $20 I have ever spent, and we made some cute memories.
Pro Tip: It’s free to get in, but each activity has its own price. Cash or credit accepted. No pets allowed.
4. Wine Country Tour
Taking a wine tour through the Hill Country is a great way to see the spectacular views of rolling hills, winding roads, beautiful colors, and lake views. If you want to venture out to see other Texas Hill Country wineries — such as in Johnson City, Fredericksburg, and Dripping Springs — a great way to do this is to take a wine tour in a luxury Mercedes Euro Bus with Heart Of Texas Wine Tours. Let someone else do the driving while you and your bunch take in the delights of the scenic Hill Country and conversation.
5. Scenic Drives
In Burnet County alone, there are many scenic routes for views of the Hill Country. Ranch to Market Road 1431 (RM-1431), for instance, crosses Highway 281 right in the heart of Marble Falls, and no matter which way you go, the drive offers nothing but breathtaking views while driving on winding curves and hills. With lakes and state parks everywhere, sideroads in Marble Falls are an opportunity to see gorgeous views.
I can guarantee RM-1431 offers a beautiful scenic drive because we spent a lot of time driving this road to our activities. Plus, the cabin we rented was off this road, too. The further you go on RM-1431, the better the view. So up and down we went, and each time I was in awe of the view and the winding curves. I caught myself a time or two going over the speed limit when driving downhill, and though I didn’t mean to, it was fun!
6. Hiking And Biking Trails
There’s no better way to explore nature than on a hiking trail. Whether you hike or bike, you’re going to want to save some time to explore Marble Falls on foot … or pedal. Backbone Creek Hike and Bike Trail (1.3 miles) offers scenic views and a chance to see wildlife. It’s located in Marble Falls between the town’s two parks. Another place to hike is at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge located east on RM-1431. It offers several different trails to hike, and you may spot a golden-cheeked warbler or two.
7. Hidden Falls Adventure Park
Are you the adventurous type? Hidden Falls Adventure Park is an outdoor adventure park with over 200 miles of wide-open trails for ATV/UTV, jeep, motorcycle, and dirtbikes. Take your pick of an off-road vehicle and drive the rugged trails. There’s endless fun here for the outdoor adventurer. It’s pet-friendly, too, and located off scenic RM-1431.
8. Four Area Golf Courses
Whether you’re looking for a challenge or an easy swing, Marble Falls lies near four fabulous golf courses. This area is truly a golfer’s paradise with breathtaking views of the Texas Hill Country and lakeside landscapes. You don’t have to be a skilled golfer to enjoy golf at any of the courses. Just keep your head down and follow through with your swing, and you’ll be good to go. Be sure to stop by the visitor center at 100 Avenue G in Marble Falls and let the pretty, nice lady tell you all about each of the golf courses.
9. Longhorn Caverns State Park
Located about 15 miles from Marble Falls on Park Road 4 in Burnet is Longhorn Caverns State Park, a unique destination full of natural beauty. The park is home to one of the most enduring caves in Texas and is a very popular one for locals. Two types of cave tours are offered through the 68-degree-year-round primitive cave. The Cavern Walking Tour is for most to enjoy, and although it has steep stairs down to the cave and back up again, it’s very doable — just be sure to wear nice comfortable shoes. Once inside, I think you’ll be glad you put this activity on your list of things to do while in Marble Falls. I will say, though, there is a part of the cave where participants will have to do the duck walk (that’s what the tour guide called it). It’s where you’ll be walking like a duck with your head and back downward for at least 66 yards, but don’t worry — it’s only one-way! Oh, and if you like bats, you’re in for a surprise. We saw at least eight to 10 bats on our tour, but they were sleeping. This cave tour is by far the best one we’ve been on in Texas.
The other tour is for adventures. It’s not called the Wild Cave Tour for nothing! It’s a three-hour guided tour through the same cave but involves narrow passages and other areas that are hard to get to. This tour is physically demanding and requires participants to be in good physical condition. Well, that left me out!
Pro Tip: Get there early or stay after your tour to enjoy walking trails, an observation deck, the visitor center, and exhibits. All trails are very well-maintained and appropriate for all skill levels.
Where To Stay In Marble Falls
If you plan to enjoy the outdoor life then cozy up inside, there are plenty of places to stay in and around Marble Falls. But, if you’re looking to stay outside of town, I found the most adorable place to rent called The Bait House. It’s a tiny rustic house, and it’s located off the scenic road I mentioned above. I also got to bring my two precious dogs at no extra cost.
In case you’re in need of more Texas travel inspiration, here are a few of our other recommendations!
