There’s something beautiful about experiencing the different aspects of a city during different seasons. We’re sharing some of our favorite things to do in Johnson City, Texas in the spring, but you can also enjoy many of these activities all year-round.
These are some of our favorite Johnson City activities for when the weather is warm, the days are starting to get longer and the wildflowers are painting the community with color.
See the Wildflowers.
Spring in the Texas Hill Country is prime time wildflower viewing season. Everyone loves the opportunity to explore the wildflowers and to grab those quintessentially Texas shots of kids in the bluebonnets or sunsets over fields of florals.
Some favorite spots in and around Johnson City include:
- The Willow City Loop, a 13-mile loop, includes some gorgeous floral vistas. This drive is well-known throughout the Hill Country, and the local topography plays into how pretty it is. You’ll see valleys, hilltops and meadows splashed with spring color from bluebonnets, Indian Paintbrush, firewheels, daisies and more. The Willow City Loop is a great option for cyclists, as well as for those who want to enjoy a scenic drive with some potential stops for Instagrammable moments.
- Lyndon B. Johnson State Park, which includes fields blanketed with wildflowers and plenty of places for both taking photos in the bluebonnets and Indian blankets, and for enjoying plenty of wide open spaces. Plan to come back in the fall and enjoy the seed stomp to help reseed the area as well!
Explore More at the Science Mill
The Science Mill is a Hill Country gem, a place where families can come out to explore and enjoy the community. Pollinator-palooza is a big event on the spring Science Mill must-do list, where families can learn about the impact butterflies, bees and other pollinators have on our ecosystem. This hands-on, minds-on, family-focused programming is a perfect accompaniment to your wildflower exploring, as it will give everyone a deeper appreciation of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into the fields of wildflowers we get to enjoy all spring.
Fish at Pedernales River Nature Park
Load up your fishing gear and plan for a day of relaxation at Pedernales River Nature Park.
The park is easy to access, at the intersection of Highway 281 and Highway 290, and it has plenty of space for casting a line, packing a picnic, and enjoying a day of springtime in the great outdoors.
Eat Farm Fresh Seasonal Goodness
Just because you’re headed into the Hill Country doesn’t mean it has to be an all-casual, all-outdoors weekend. There’s plenty of room for wildflower exploration during the day and luxurious dining before enjoying a star-filled sky and a romantic evening stroll.
Enjoy a delightfully curated meal at Bryans on 290 (if the crème brulee is on the menu, it’s a must-try), followed by an overnight in one of the many quaint and comfortable Johnson City short-term rentals. It’ll create a Hill Country weekend getaway you won’t soon forget!
Take Mom on a Girls’ Trip
Speaking of weekends away, it’s always a good time to do some family bonding in the Hill Country. Whether you come out for Easter, Mother’s Day weekend or any other celebration in between, you’ll create some sweet, small-town memories that Mom will cherish. Spend the night, so you can enjoy a sleepover and giggle like girls again!
Then, up your game by taking her shopping in some of our favorite Johnson City stores and boutiques. The spring weather makes floral gifts, like those at local boutique June Bloom Lavender, perfect options to send Mom home with a sweet-scented memento of your time together in Johnson City.
Plan a Tasting Weekend
The Texas Hill Country is known for its wine, beer and whiskey, and Johnson City has plenty of options for tastings and exploration. While you can plan a drive throughout the Hill Country, there are also tasting options that allow you to spend less time in the car and more time savoring the flavors and experience.
For example, Pebble Rock Cellars is “a tasting room hidden in plain sight” and within a stone’s throw of downtown Johnson City. Set up a reservation in advance to ensure you have time and space to really enjoy the experience.
For a casual taste of locally brewed goodness, Pecan Street Brewing is a fun and easy option, with cleverly named beers (try the Czech Ya’ll Self lager) that complement their Hill Country-inspired eats.
Whatever your plans are this spring, a Texas Hill Country weekend in Johnson City should be at the top of your list. In fact, you should probably plan a trip every quarter, so you can experience all the different nuances of seasons across the Hill Country.
From spring festivals to summers on the river to our legendary Lights Spectacular, there’s something for everyone in Johnson City, Texas, and we can’t wait to see you here!