A Weekend In {Lockhart}
The Barbecue Capital of Texas
Words by Mary Bryce Photos by Adrian Gutierrez
Life here can definitely get busy, and the grind of city life can easily wear you down. Consider taking a mini-vacation to Lockhart. Just a 30-minute drive outside of town, the calm pace of Lockhart is a rejuvenating and welcoming reprieve from urban life.
Friday
Start the weekend right with a hike through Lockhart State Park. Situated around a golf course, there are plenty of things to do such as golfing, fishing and camping. After you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Black’s Barbeque. Nationally acclaimed, this family-owned business has been operating since 1949, so they clearly know their stuff. Don’t miss the brisket and their creamed corn or one of Black’s other delicious sides. You’ll be too full afterwards to do anything, but it’s absolutely worth it.
Saturday
Begin your morning with a cup of coffee at LuLu’s Lunch Box, and if you’re feeling really indulgent, one of their tasty cupcakes. Take your time wandering through the recently opened Magic Mirror Vintage, which has an incredible selection of trinkets, vintage clothes and other unique apparel. If you feel like sampling more of Lockhart’s amazing barbeque, give Kreuz Market a try. Afterwards, book an afternoon with Maverick Horseback Riding, where you can take a horseback riding lesson or go on a trail ride. Be sure to check the calendar and see if anything is playing at Lockhart’s Gaslight Baker Theatre, which has regular theatre productions.
Sunday
Make sure to stop at Manny Gammage’s Texas Hatter, where the owners make custom hats that can take up to three weeks to complete. Conclude your barbeque tour with a stop at Smitty’s Market where you can sample their amazing pork ribs and jalapeño sausage. Alternatively, if you’re tired of eating so much meat, enjoy a fun and fancy dinner at the Lockhart Bistro, where you can eat sample pastas, seafood and some delicious fries. Afterwards, get a drink at Lilly’s Bar and Grill, an excellent dive bar, where you can soak in the relaxed, easygoing atmosphere while listening to Tejano music blast from the jukebox.
if you go…
Where To Stay
Beyond the Best Western in Lockhart there are plenty of unique Airbnb options around town. Additionally if you want to stay somewhere a little nicer, and don’t mind a drive, consider staying at the delightful Ainsworth House Inn bed and breakfast in Luling, Texas.
Events
Weather allowing, the “BBQ Capital of Texas” and Chili Championship happens the first weekend of June. Cookers set up their cooking sites after 5pm on Thursday before the cook off. You won’t want to miss this one.
Transportation
Once you’re there, your primary modes of transportation will be driving and walking around the main part of town.
