Johnson City TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Johnson City, Texas.
1. Exotic Resort Zoo, Inc.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SAFARI PARK
Exotic Resort Zoo, Inc. is a privately-owned safari park where visitors can meet over 600 animals from more than 45 exotic species. Guests enjoy guided tram tours that wind through scenic Hill Country terrain, offering close-up encounters and feeding opportunities. The zoo is a popular family attraction with educational and interactive experiences for all ages.
2. Pedernales Falls State Park
HILL COUNTRY NATURE ESCAPE
Pedernales Falls State Park features more than 5,200 acres along the Pedernales River, offering stunning limestone waterfalls and diverse wildlife. The park is beloved for hiking, swimming, horseback riding, and photography in scenic Texas Hill Country. Its accessible trails and natural pools make it a top outdoor destination.
3. Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY SITE
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park preserves the legacy, boyhood home, and ranch of America's 36th president. Visitors can explore the Texas White House, family cemetery, historic buildings, and scenic drives that reveal LBJ's rural roots. The park showcases key chapters from the life of this influential leader.
4. Science Mill
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE MUSEUM
The Science Mill is an innovative science and technology museum housed in a restored 1880s mill. It features hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and futuristic installations that engage visitors of all ages. The museum provides a dynamic learning environment focused on STEM education in the heart of the Hill Country.
5. Texas White House
HISTORIC PRESIDENTIAL RETREAT
The Texas White House, located at the LBJ Ranch in nearby Stonewall, served as President Johnson's official residence during his time in office. The home is preserved as part of the National Historical Park, offering guided tours and a glimpse into the private life of the Johnson family. Its rural setting and historical significance attract history enthusiasts year-round.
6. Lyndon B. Johnson Boyhood Home
PRESIDENTIAL CHILDHOOD HOME
The Lyndon B. Johnson Boyhood Home gives visitors a look at the formative years of the future president. Maintained to reflect the era in which young LBJ grew up, the home is open for guided tours. This site is an essential stop for those interested in presidential history and early 20th-century Texas life.
7. Lost Draw Cellars
HILL COUNTRY WINERY
Lost Draw Cellars is a boutique winery known for its thoughtfully crafted Texas wines and welcoming tasting room atmosphere. Located in the heart of Johnson City, it showcases the unique flavors of Texas-grown grapes. Guests can savor guided tastings and enjoy a relaxing outdoor patio experience.
8. Untamed Wine Estates
MODERN WINE EXPERIENCE
Untamed Wine Estates presents a contemporary approach to Texas winemaking, featuring bold varietals and a stylish tasting space. The estate is popular for its food and wine pairings, as well as its picturesque setting. It's a must-visit for both oenophiles and casual wine lovers.
9. Farmhouse Vineyards Marketplace
LOCAL WINE AND GOODS
Farmhouse Vineyards Marketplace offers tastings of estate wines alongside an eclectic retail shop featuring gourmet foods, gifts, and Texas specialties. Known for its friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, the marketplace highlights the spirit of local entrepreneurship. Visitors enjoy curated wine flights and shopping in a charming historic building.
10. Johnson City Coffee Company
CRAFT COFFEE HUB
Johnson City Coffee Company is a favorite community gathering spot offering freshly roasted coffee, homemade pastries, and a relaxed vibe. The café is committed to quality ingredients and frequently features art from local creators. It is a welcoming stop for visitors exploring downtown Johnson City.
11. James Polk Johnson Building
HISTORIC TOWN LANDMARK
The James Polk Johnson Building is a significant historic structure on the town square, built by the city's founder. It stands as a reminder of Johnson City's rich heritage and early development. The site draws history buffs and those interested in small-town Texas architecture.
12. Texas Hills Vineyard
SCENIC VINEYARD & WINERY
Texas Hills Vineyard is renowned for its Italian-inspired wines produced in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Guests can enjoy tastings in a beautiful setting surrounded by rolling vines. The vineyard hosts frequent events, making it a vibrant part of the local wine scene.
13. 1885 Ice House
RUSTIC BAR AND GRILL
The 1885 Ice House blends classic Texas bar ambiance with a modern menu of craft beers and hearty favorites. Its historic building setting adds to the charm, making it a popular spot with locals and visitors alike. Weekly live music and outdoor seating create a genuine Hill Country experience.
14. Pecan Street Brewing
LOCAL BREWPUB GATHERING PLACE
Pecan Street Brewing is a beloved brewpub located in a renovated historic building in downtown Johnson City. Offering a rotating selection of handcrafted beers, wood-fired pizzas, and live music, it's a social hub for the community. The brewery's laid-back atmosphere and diverse menu attract both beer enthusiasts and families.
15. Willow City Loop
ICONIC WILDFLOWER DRIVE
The Willow City Loop is a scenic drive famous for its vibrant wildflower displays each spring, winding through the rugged countryside near Johnson City. This 13-mile route offers breathtaking vistas of bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, and Texas landscapes. It's a must-see for nature lovers visiting the Hill Country.