Granbury

Turn southwest when you hit Fort Worth and you'll run straight into the warm embrace of Granbury, TX. This lakeside town is known far and wide for its history, culture, and gracious small-town personality. Don't believe us? Maybe you're more inclined to trust the word of USA Today, which named Granbury the Best Historic Small Town in the country. That's right: not just in Texas, but in the entire U.S. of A. From the Historic Granbury Square to the shores of Lake Granbury, it's easy to see why Granbury has earned this kind of national attention. 

The Historic Granbury Square is worth a visit alone. It's where you'll find the soul of the city: locally owned boutiques, restaurants, tours, and year-round events. The district is entirely walkable, too, so none of that big city nonsense of sitting in traffic, paying big money for a parking spot, then rinsing and repeating. Park once; experience one of the most historic squares in Texas. 

Lest you think that's all there is to Granbury, it's also officially known as the Celebration Capital of Texas. With over 40 festivals and events each year, it's no wonder the name stuck. From food and music festivals to seasonal celebrations and holiday traditions, Granbury doesn't let a moment go by without throwing it a party. 

Consider yourself an outdoors type? Lake Granbury puts boating, fishing, swimming, and paddle sports within minutes of the square, and the surrounding parks add trails, sports fields, and open green space for anyone who just wants to stretch their legs in the fresh air. Acton Nature Center is the quieter option—trails and wildlife habitat away from the water—and golfers have several courses nearby.

The town also carries more than 40 historic landmarks, a roster of guided tours, working art galleries and studios, and the restored Granbury Opera House, which runs musicals and theatrical productions year-round. For groups, a lakefront conference center and a handful of unique local venues make Granbury a popular pick for meetings, reunions, and private events.

Everybody knows the Top 40 hits of Texas: Austin, San Antonio, El Paso, and others. But the biggest travelers know that Texas' best work can be found in the deep cuts. Granbury has all the history, small-town aura, and natural beauty you could possibly want in a weekend away.