Brownwood

Set among the green rolling hills of the Hill Country, you’ll find Brownwood, a captivating community that perfectly blends small-town charm with a dynamic spirit of growth. With its picturesque setting along the tranquil Pecan Bayou, Brownwood continues to be a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, a premier hunting destination, and a burgeoning cultural hub with an increasingly vibrant downtown. The city's theme can be encapsulated as "Feels Like Home", emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere, strong community bonds, and a deep connection to the rich history noted throughout the town.

Brownwood’s idyllic setting about two hours west of Waco offers many ways to enjoy the great outdoors. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Brownwood State Park remains a cornerstone of the city's appeal. This expansive 530+ acre park, with 7,300 surface acres of lake, is a paradise for camping, swimming, fishing, kayaking, boating, and bird watching. You can also explore three miles of rocky trails that wind through oak trees and grassy hills. Just minutes from downtown, Riverside Park offers overnight camping at Riverside Park RV, a popular disc golf course, and opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and fishing along the Pecan Bayou.

Brownwood reinforces its status as a premier hunting destination in Texas, with abundant open land teeming with white-tailed deer, doves, quails, hogs, and turkeys, attracting hunters from across the state. Numerous leases and guided trips are available, including exotic game excursions. Meanwhile, golfers will appreciate Brownwood's two excellent golf courses, notably The Hideout Golf Club & Resort and Brownwood Country Club, which seamlessly integrate the natural landscape for breathtaking playing experiences year-round. During the summer months, the Camp Bowie Family Aquatic Center provides a refreshing escape with waterslides and a lap pool. For a more natural experience, head to Fabis Primitive Park.

Beyond Brownwood's abundant outdoor offerings, the town itself is a captivating destination rich in history and charm. The pulsating heart of Brownwood is its Historic Downtown, which is undergoing significant revitalization in 2025. Here, you'll find an array of boutique shops and diverse dining experiences. This vibrant area is set against a backdrop of fascinating historical points that truly spark tourist interest, such as the beautifully restored Lyric Theatre, a vaudeville-era gem; the imposing old county jail, now a piece of the Brown County Museum of History; the nearby historic Santa Fe Depot; and businesses like Intermission Bookshop, which carry tales of the past that still remain in the storefront. To dive deeper into Brownwood's history, explore the exhibits and climb aboard the mini train at the Martin & Francis Lehnis Railroad Museum, conveniently located near the historic depot. Then, head to the Camp Bowie 36th Division Memorial Park to see authentic vehicles and military equipment from World War II through Vietnam, and be sure to stop by The Gordon Wood Hall of Champions Museum to see the tribute to the most successful high school football coach in Texas.

After exploring the museums, you'll discover a fantastic selection of dining options throughout Brownwood, catering to a diverse range of tastes. You can still tuck into a rack of savory ribs at Underwood's Cafeteria, a longtime local favorite for classic Texas barbecue. For a unique experience, check out the Runaway Train Café, serving up traditional favorites like juicy hamburgers and chilly milkshakes in a charming, one-of-a-kind setting. If you're looking for a lively evening, head to places like Pioneer Tap House, Wild Duck Bar & Grill, or The Turtle Restaurant, Gelateria & Enoteca for a great selection of entertainment, food, drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.

Along with a bevy of delicious choices, Brownwood is consistently buzzing with its vibrant calendar of annual events and festivals. Throughout the year, you can experience exhilarating occasions like the Brown County Rodeo, a thrilling annual tradition. Popular seasonal events, including various holiday celebrations, bring joy and community spirit, while the Feels Like Home Festival brings a fantastic celebration of community and music each fall. Later in the year, the popular Corks & Caps event celebrates local flavors and spirits, all contributing dynamic energy to the community.

Not only does Brownwood offer a plethora of local experiences and these exciting ongoing happenings, but it also serves as a fantastic starting point for exploring some of the best of Texas. The town is a focal point on the Way-out Wineries Trail, the Texas Forts Trail, the Great Texas Wildlife Trail, and the Wildflower Trail.

Whether you're looking for an unforgettable escape to the great outdoors, some of the best hunting in Texas, or a weekend getaway to a friendly small town, you'll find much to like about Brownwood.