Texas Photo Festival , SmithVille TX 227, originally uploaded by Ruben Chiquillo.
The railroad town of Smithville, in Central Texas, is so picturesque that it has caught the attention of Hollywood (see the film Hope Floats). With a historic main street full of restored shop fronts and many wide, tree-lined streets, it is worth an extended stop. Spend a few days at a Smithville Texas bed and breakfast to allow ample town to explore the area.
Visit antique shops, galleries and restaurants in town, dine in Texas and Tex-Mex restaurants, or visit a museum. The Smithville Heritage House and Museum and the Railroad Museum and Depot give a full picture of Smithville’s past. Each Saturday there is a Farmers Market featuring delicious local produce, and the first Saturday of each month there is an Art Show and Sale at the Gazebo in town.
When you are ready to get back to nature, check out Buescher and Bastrop State Parks, north of Smithville. A lovely, hilly 12-mile road between the parks that makes a pleasant scenic drive or a great bike ride for experienced cyclists. In the parks, enjoy non-motorized boating, fishing, swimming and hiking. In addition, the Colorado River passes through Smithville, and when temperatures rise, it’s a great place to cool off. Rafting, canoeing and kayaking are all popular, as are swimming and fishing.
Golfers bring your clubs, because there are four golf courses in the area worth playing. Pine Forest Golf Club affords some terrific views of the Colorado River from several tees. Ask the innkeepers of your bed and breakfast Smithville which golf course they prefer.
Central Texas is full of interesting towns and sites. Before leaving the region, visit neighboring Bastrop and La Grange, too.
