As the official Bluebonnet Capital of Texas and one of the most beloved Highland Lakes towns, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of fun things to do in Burnet, Texas!
From parks to festivals to a historic fort, we’ve rounded up the best Burnet activities and attractions for any time of year.
Oh, and for the out-of-towners–it’s “burn-it”, not “bur-net”.
Here’s what to do in Burnet, TX!
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The Best Things to Do in Burnet, Texas
Pay a visit to the Fort Croghan Museum.
In the mid-19th century, Fort Croghan was one of several forts built along the Texas frontier–and today, it acts as a peek into the past.
Open from April to October each year, this seasonal Burnet attraction is a fantastic place to learn about the local century dating back more than a century.
It’s also free to visit!
Fort Croghan includes a small indoor museum, but its most striking features are the 8 19th century buildings found on the property.
Check out historic planes at the Highland Lakes Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force.
Of all the places to visit in Burnet, Texas, this may be the hardest to miss: as you drive by, these historic planes at hard to miss!
The museum primarily focuses on the preservation of WWII-era planes and other memorabilia, including uniforms.
They also put on great air shows–be sure to check their website for upcoming events!
Stroll through Hamilton Creek Park.
This shady, peaceful city park is the perfect place to relax outside in the heart of Burnet, Texas.
You’ll find walking trails, picnic areas, and even a gazebo here, flanked by plenty of gorgeous live oaks.
The water is often stocked with fish, as well.
Stop by the Hill Country Motorheads Motorcycle Museum.
If you’re a motorcycle fan, the Hill Country Motorheads Motorcycle Museum absolutely belongs on your list of what to do in Burnet!
Run by two local brothers with a passion for bikes, the museum features a wide range of vintage motorcycles, mostly from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s.
It’s also pet-friendly!
Seek out bald eagles.
Each winter, bald eagles call an area near Burnet, Texas home–and lucky visitors can view them from afar.
Without a doubt, this is one of the most unique things to do in Burnet.
November to March is generally the best time to spot the eagles, but their arrival date changes by the year.
Ask around if you’re visiting in the fall to see if they’ve arrived yet!
Browse your way through the courthouse square.
Burnet’s courthouse square isn’t quite as lively as some Texas towns (looking at you, Granbury), but it’s still quite charming and well worth checking out when visiting Burnet, TX!
Be sure to duck into some of the antique shops while you’re there–you never know what treasures you’ll find.
Get underground at Longhorn Cavern.
Slowly carved by an ancient river, Longhorn Cavern is one of the most unique caves in Texas, with a distinctly different look than caverns like Sonora or Natural Bridge.
Take a guided tour of the cavern itself (or even sign up for a Wild Cave Tour if you’re feeling adventurous), and then consider exploring the state park further and hiking one of the trails!
Unfortunately, you can’t explore Longhorn Cavern itself independently, but it’s worth planning ahead in order to experience this beautiful place!
Chow down on great food at Bill’s Burgers, Wings & Things.
If you’re in the mood for a great burger in a laid-back setting, you absolutely have to try Bill’s Burgers while in Burnet, or so we were told before a recent visit.
And, this local, family-owned joint lived up to the hype!
Large, delicious burgers, great customer service, and excellent sides–you can’t go wrong with lunch here when visiting Burnet, Texas.
Explore Inks Lake State Park.
From fishing to kayaking to bird-watching, you’ll find all the classic Texas lake past times at the beloved Inks Lake State Park near Burnet.
Consider taking a short hike to visit (and swim at) the famous Devils Waterhole while you’re there!
… and Lake Buchanan.
As the first and largest of the Highland Lakes, Lake Buchanan is a fantastic place to rent a boat, go camping, or simply enjoy views from the shores.
It also happens to be home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas–they alone are worth signing up for a boat tour for!
Hit up a Highland Lakes winery.
The Highland Lakes region is filled with fabulous wineries, but for a popular local option very close to Burnet, you can’t go wrong with the gorgeous Perissos Vineyard and Winery.
The wine is lovely, and the views arguably better!
If you’re looking for a casual lunch after, the Hoover Valley Cafe is very popular and right across the street!
Enjoy the bluebonnets and accompanying Bluebonnet Festival.
Burnet is famous across the Lone Star State for the remarkable fields of bluebonnets that pop up each spring, and admiring them is easily one of the best attractions in Burnet!
Want to get beyond just enjoying the fields?
Burnet’s Bluebonnet Festival takes place on the second weekend of April every year and is an incredibly fun experience.
Events include a biergarten, pet parade, musical acts, contests, and much more.
Where to Stay in Burnet, TX
Understandably, many visitors to Burnet prefer to stay a bit outside of town in order to take better advantage of the Highland Lakes!
For something right on the water but a 15-minute drive or so from the center of town, the Painted Sky Inn gets fantastic reviews.
Independent cabins and lakehouses like this are also popular–all the better to enjoy the solitude of nature with!
Looking for maximum convenience during your trip to Burnet?
For a standard hotel right in the heart of Burnet, the Comfort Inn and Suites is a reliable choice.
No matter what kind of lodging you prefer, if you plan to visit during bluebonnet season (and especially during the bluebonnet festival), be sure to book somewhere to stay well in advance!
Where is Burnet, Texas?
Burnet, TX is located along Highway 281, just east of Lake Buchanan, on the northern edge of the Texas Hill Country.
It’s about an hour (55 miles) northwest of Austin and 15 minutes (13 miles) north of Marble Falls.
Exploring the best things to do in Burnet, TX can easily be combined with visits to Llano, Marble Falls, or Spicewood.
Great job covering Burnet. I moved here from Houston and love it!
Thanks, Krista! What a change from Houston–the Hill Country really is something special.