Visit Bastrop's Going the Extra Mile (GEM) program gives YOU the opportunity to recognize employees in our community for exemplary service and dedicated performance to their role in hospitality. One of the most important components of the visitor experience is the quality of the interface between the visitor and the tourism worker, and their experience with tourism service providers. This award recognizes the hard work and dedication of employees in the hospitality community! Vote now through April 14!

Nominate a GEM
MENU
CLOSE

The City of Bastrop

Bastrop preserves the heritage, history and natural surroundings that draw visitors here from every destination. Our people and places are deeply influenced by a diverse ancestry that includes Native Americans, Spanish explorers, American southerners, German immigrants, republic settlers, African-Americans, Mexicans and a variety of other people from every walk of life. Each of these influences has left a mark on Bastrop and made it a Texas town unique in nature.

The city was incorporated under the laws of Texas on December 18, 1837, and many of the original landmarks, stories and families remain, giving visitors a literal walk through time. The Old Iron Bridge, built in 1923, is now a scenic walkway and bike trail that’s the perfect place for a stroll or sharing the local tradition of spittin’ off the bridge, inspired by The Andy Griffith Show.

Bastrop & Bastrop County also boast plenty of modern-day spirit, with more than 75,000 people now calling the area home. Many movies have been shot in or around Bastrop, including 2008’s Fireflies in the Garden and 2010’s Predators. There’s a thriving local arts scene, anchored by the Deep in the Heart Art Foundry, the 1889 Bastrop Opera House and the new Jerry Fay Wilhelm Center for the Performing Arts. Schulman Theatres Lost Pines 8 offers first-run movies, bowling, a sports bar and more.

Adventure Awaits You