Start your day off early at Maxine’s Café and Bakery for an award-winning breakfast. Maxine’s has been voted best breakfast in Bastrop by locals for nine years running. It was also recognized by Texas Monthly as one of the “40 Best Places for Breakfast in Texas,” one of the “40 Best Small Town Cafes in Texas,” and was featured by Texas Highways and Day Tripper as an essential experience in Bastrop for road trippers. Might we suggest the “Texas Monthly Stacker”, or our personal favorite The “Texas Benny!” While you’re on Main Street – keep your eyes peeled, there are plenty of little shops and boutiques you might want to check out later.
Next up, head west to The Dinosaur Park! This unique, outdoor museum like park has realistic, life-size dinosaur exhibits. This is a fun & educational place to bring the kids and learn about the majestic animals that ruled our Earth for over 150 million years. Don’t miss: the exhibits, fossil dig, playground, picnic area and the Dino Store!
Go just a bit further and you’ll discover Berdoll Pecan Candy & Gift Company! (driving tip: Keep your eyes peeled for Mrs. Pearl the Squirrel!) This family-own business has been serving up pecans, pies, candy and Texas-themed gifts for quite some time. Grab goodies like shelled pecans, homemade fudge, jellies, honey or pecan brittle – just to name a few. They are open seven days a week, but it you happen to catch them after hours, don’t fret – just use the 24-hour vending machine on the front porch. (We got you!)
On your way back into town, snag lunch Ma’Coco located at Community Gardens for a serving of authentic Baja Californian Mexican cuisine and drinks. Their fresh approach to food emphasizes scratch ingredients & made-to-order meals so you’re sure to find something you love! Don’t leave without snagging AT LEAST a six-pack of churro donuts for the road! The kids will also enjoy the unique indoor/outdoor market area, aquaponic farming system, chicken coop and plant nursery.
Photo Credit: Ma'Coco
On your way back into town, be sure not to miss the Texas Boot Company! They’ve got the largest selection of western gear including boots, denim, jewelry, hat and handbags for miles and miles. Appreciate the overwhelmingly wonder smell of fresh leather, make sure kids see the stuffed bear and other taxidermy - and of course, grab some boots for the fam!
Photo Credit: Texas Boot Company
Be sure to stop by the Bastrop Museum and Visitors Center where you can tour the history exhibits or join the kids on a scavenger hunt. As you head out ask for the "Toads in Town" brochure that helps you seek out the small bronze toads that have been perfectly placed around historic downtown. Hint – there are eight toads, can you find them all?
After some downtown shenanigans sneak into PawPaw’s Catfish House for some seriously delicious catfish and a huge glass of iced tea. The menu is simple, easy to navigate and the food is hand battered to order! Their motto is “Fish, Family and Big Stories!” and the atmosphere is down-home friendly. This restaurant is a local favorite.
Photo Credit: Paw Paw's Catfish House
After a full day of fun-filled adventures, slip away to the quiet sanctuary that is the Pecan Street Inn. This elegant but cozy Victorian home is tucked right around the corner from historic downtown and a short jaunt (two-blocks) from the Colorado River! Rest your head is modernly appointed king and queen beds, including suites with private restrooms. Rise and shine to their signature gourmet breakfast, (wait for it!) pecan waffles served on fine china with silver!! Mmmmmmm. Don’t forget juices, coffees, teas, and hot chocolate to boot! Dietary modifications are always cheerfully arranged. The owners are also great resources to help you find restaurants, attractions and shops!
Photo Credit: Pecan Street Inn
In Bastrop, TX, we welcome you to make yourself at home, create your next story and enjoy our special brand of Texas hospitality.
