Welcome to Driftwood
Lots of wide-open space remains in this historic area
Less than 30 miles outside of Austin, you’ll find Driftwood. This tiny town may not be as well developed or as well-known as other Texas Hill Country towns and suburbs, but that’s not because of a lack of merit. In the 1800s, Driftwood was an important supply center for surrounding ranches. Its old-time Driftwood General Store is no longer open but its historic Texaco sign, gas pumps, and quaint look is a testament to this small town’s once strategically important location. There hasn’t been much development in this town, which provides room for large homes in the area located on large estates. Driftwood is a great place for those who want peace, tranquility, and privacy.
The population of Driftwood is quite small and even though residents are spread out on estates, they are all friendly and on a first name basis. In addition to the landmark General Store, Driftwood is also known for having some of the best barbecue around at Salt Lick BBQ. Vineyards and wineries like Fall Creek Vineyard in the area are also well known and appreciated. Finally, the Driftwood Golf and Ranch Club has a scenic golf course and beautiful residential opportunities for those who want the links to always be close by.
What to Love
- Peace and quiet
- Large, ranch estates
- Great golfing
- Just outside Austin
- Lovely vineyards nearby
Local Lifestyle
With such a tiny population, the lifestyle in Driftwood is best described as easy going and seemingly from another era. While so close to Austin, the area remains remarkably rural, with ranch homes and vineyards dominating the landscape. There are still a handful of standout gatherings spots and living here allows you to enjoy your peace and quiet where you can still get out and enjoy yourself locally.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Driftwood’s most famous place to eat is without a doubt Salt Lick BBQ. This family-run business dates to 1967 and has earned quite a reputation in the surrounding area, using a special family technique of searing their meat before slowly cooking it over wood coals. Keeping with the old-time feel, it’s still BYOB. Nearby, an old gas station known as Hays City Store is now a sports bar and taproom.
A number of good choices for imbibing are located around Driftwood. Fall Creek Vineyards are located right in town. Twisted X Brewing Company is nearby. Vista Brewery is also a favorite and offers farm tours and an apiary bee tour. There are also spirits made here. Stinson is both a distillery and winery and is a nice place to enjoy a drink as well. Desert Door Distillery is America’s only Sotol distillery, and the Eden West food truck serves up seriously tasty and gourmet dishes totally different from your standard food truck fare.
Things to Do
Besides enjoying the tasty eats and drinks near Driftwood, there are some natural areas to see nearby. The 64-acre Charro Park has trails for hiking and biking; 117 different species of birds have been seen on the property. For golfers, the Driftwood Golf and Ranch Club is well regarded.
Camp Ben McCulloch originated as a reunion of Confederate soldiers and holds an annual event today. Held in June, the event has a variety of activities and is open to the public. On the pretty Onion Creek, Camp Ben McCulloch is a nice way to enjoy the outdoors in Driftwood, and the campsite here is popular as a picnic and swimming spot for locals.
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