Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cedar Park, TX and Pflugerville, TX
Driving from Cedar Park, TX, to Pflugerville, TX, takes approximately 30 minutes. However, instead of driving straight, the journey can become an exciting and memorable experience by stopping at some unexpected places. The journey is relatively short, but it offers a different side of Texas that is not well-known to outsiders. From a historic destination to a cookie shop, here are five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Cedar Park, TX and Pflugerville, TX worth exploring.
Round Rock, TX
Located halfway between Cedar Park, TX and Pflugerville, TX, Round Rock, TX, is the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs. The city gets its name from a large, round rock found in Brushy Creek. Visitors can see the "round rock" at the corner of Brushy Creek Road and Chisholm Trail. In addition to its name, Round Rock, TX is famous for its downtown district known as "Avenue of the Diamonds" due to its concentration of art deco buildings. Travelers can visit the Round Rock Art Walk and see the public art murals and sculptures. It is also home to the historic Round Rock Memorial Cemetery, which has graves dating back to the 1850s.
Must-Stop Destination: The Co-Op District is a mixed-use development that offers visitors a variety of activities from dining and shopping to living and working. Its open-air, pedestrian-friendly layout is perfect for a solo trip or a family outing.
Must-Try Food: The Jack Allen's Kitchen restaurant offers classic Austin-style cuisine, locally sourced ingredients, and a relaxed ambiance. They have an extensive menu, and their brunch options are especially a hit.
Granger, TX
Granger, TX, is a quaint town north of Pflugerville, TX, known for its Czech heritage. It is home to the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center, which preserves Czech and German-Texan culture and history. The museum is in the same location as the famous Granger Cotton Oil Mill, one of the largest cottonseed oil mills in the world that became a Cotton Club in the 1920s. Visitors can learn about the Czech settlers and their traditions and enjoy live music and local cuisine.
Must-Stop Destination: The Eagles Hotel and Restaurant is one of the oldest and continuously operated Czech lodges in Texas, dating back to 1899. It features traditional Bohemian fare such as spaetzle, schnitzel, and homemade bread.
Must-Try Food: The Kolaches from the Granger City Bakery are a must-try when visiting Granger, TX. Kolaches are Czech pastries that are baked with a sweet filling. The bakery offers a wide variety of flavors, including apricot, apple, and cream cheese.
Taylor, TX
Taylor, TX, is a city that is often overlooked in favor of Round Rock or Austin, but it has a unique history that is worth exploring. Taylor, TX, was named after former U.S. president Zachary Taylor and was once known as the "best little town in Texas." It has a bustling Main Street, which is home to several noteworthy family-owned businesses and restaurants. The city is also home to the Moody Museum, which is dedicated to the life and legacy of Texas Governor Dan Moody, the youngest governor in Texas history.
Must-Stop Destination: Venson's Blues Club is a must-visit for music lovers. It has been around for over three decades and is a mecca for blues enthusiasts. It's a laid-back venue where guests can listen to live blues and enjoy a cold beer.
Must-Try Food: When in Taylor, TX, visitors shouldn't miss out on the famous Louis Mueller BBQ. Open since 1949, the restaurant is a local institution that has won numerous awards and was featured in Texas Monthly's "Top 50 BBQ Joints" list.
Elgin, TX
Located 19 miles east of Austin, Elgin, TX, is often referred to as the "Sausage Capital of Texas" due to its thriving meat-packing industry. It is home to the famous Southside BBQ and Meyer's Elgin Smokehouse. However, Elgin, TX, is also known for its artisan shops that feature unique crafts and styles. Its vibrant downtown has been preserved and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1996.
Must-Stop Destination: The Owl Wine Bar & Home Goods store is a unique spot to grab a glass of wine and do some shopping. The store features a selection of home goods and fine wines from around the world.
Must-Try Food: Southside Market & BBQ and Meyer's Elgin Smokehouse are two famous BBQ spots that offer a wide variety of smoked meats and sausage. Visitors should try the spicy jalapeño sausage or the classic brisket for an authentic Texas experience.
Waco, TX
Although Waco, TX, is not on the direct route between Cedar Park, TX, and Pflugerville, TX, it is worth taking a detour, especially for first-time visitors. It is home to the famous Magnolia Market at the Silos, Waco Mammoth National Monument, and the Dr. Pepper Museum. Visitors can also explore the local wineries and breweries or experience the Baylor University campus.
Must-Stop Destination: The Waco Suspension Bridge is a one-of-a-kind destination, especially for engineering enthusiasts. The bridge was built in 1869 and was the first suspension bridge west of the Mississippi River. Visitors can stroll along the bridge and enjoy the view.
Must-Try Food: Visitors should make MacKenzie's burgers their first stop in Waco, TX. The restaurant is known for its classic burgers, fries, and milkshakes and has been around since 2004.
Conclusion
Exploring the small towns and cities between Cedar Park, TX and Pflugerville, TX, is a refreshing change from the big-city sights and sounds. These locations provide an opportunity to discover hidden gems and experience local cuisine. From a historic destination to a cookie shop, there are plenty of things to do and see on this journey. Travelers are encouraged to take the scenic route and embark on a road trip adventure that will create memories to last a lifetime.