Sip Wine And Stroll Nature Trails In The Charming Texas Town That Shaped A President

Most people outside of Texas probably haven't heard of the tiny town of Johnson City. Many people within the Lone Star State might not be familiar with the place. And even if you have, you probably think it's named for its most famous former resident: Lyndon Baines Johnson. And you'd be partially right; the 36th U.S. President is related to the town's founder. But even if you've driven past this charming little spot at the intersection of 281 and 290 on a road trip to somewhere else, you might not know how much there is to see and do there.

To start, it's smack dab in the middle of the Texas Hill Country, which is one of the state's favorite tourist destinations. With its limestone cliffs, gently rolling hills, and distinct Texas-German architecture, this region has a distinct personality all its own. Whether you love to hike the state parks, absorb Texas history, or sample some of the country's best wines, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Johnson City is the starting point of the 290 Wine Trail: a 30-mile trek down 290 dotted with wineries that ends in the popular town of Fredericksburg. There are plenty of shuttles available should you decide to hit as many tasting rooms as possible along the way. Alternatively, you can just stay in Johnson City and visit several tasting rooms within walking distance of each other, such as Farmhouse Vineyards, Crowson, Tatum Cellars, and 290 Locale.

If you prefer breweries or craft cocktails, they've got you covered. Nice N Easy as a business is fairly new, but the location has been serving alcohol for over 100 years. In fact, there's a rumor that a mischievous pre-teen LBJ once tried "medicinal wine" on this spot during Prohibition. Just around the corner, you'll find Pecan Street Brewing. Travelers on both Yelp and Tripadvisor not only loved the brew but also the Biergarten atmosphere and the substantial pub fare.

Families traveling with kids will love the Science Mill. Housed in a historic feed mill in the middle of town, this interactive museum keeps kids engaged with hands-on STEM exhibits, a science and art park, and even an aquaponics greenhouse. At Pedernales Falls State Park — just 12 miles east of town — you can explore some of that unique landscape the hill country is known for. There are miles and miles of scenic trails for hiking and biking that range from easy to difficult, and experienced riders can even bring their horse to ride the trails.

If you'd prefer a nice combination of nature and history, head to Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site 13 miles west of town. Start at the Visitors Center to learn about the former president's time in office and his Hill Country childhood. Once you've got to grips with LBJ's life and work, tour the neighboring LBJ Ranch to visit the family cemetery, his first school, and the family home (known as the "Texas White House"), where he hosted dignitaries from all over the globe. Finish the day with a tour of the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm to see how the local working farm operated during the 19th century.