Things To Do
in Round Rock
Round Rock sits just north of Austin in central Texas, blending a growing suburban vibe with a family-friendly small-city feel. The city is anchored by a vibrant downtown with shops, eateries, and the iconic Round Rock Water Tower as a landmark. Outdoor spaces like Old Settlers Park and nearby Brushy Creek offer plenty of recreation, while Dell Diamond hosts entertaining minor-league baseball.
With easy access to Austin, Round Rock serves as both a convenient home base and a lively day-trip destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike along the Brushy Creek Regional Trail. This winding path through lush greenery and along the creek offers a peaceful escape from the city. Don't forget to pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy by the water.
Continue your exploration by visiting the Round Rock Donuts, famous for their bright yellow donuts and rich flavor. After satisfying your sweet tooth, head to Chisholm Trail Crossing Park to learn about the area's history and enjoy the scenic views. Take some time for optional shopping at local boutiques or the Round Rock Premium Outlets.
As the sun sets, unwind with dinner at one of Round Rock's renowned barbecue joints such as Salt Lick BBQ or Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q. After dinner, catch a local live music show to soak in the vibrant culture of the area. Round off your evening with a leisurely stroll through downtown, enjoying the charming ambiance.
Begin your day at Old Settlers Park, where you can engage in a variety of outdoor activities such as jogging, biking, or simply strolling through the expansive green spaces. Enjoy the scenic lakes and abundant wildlife as you breathe in the fresh morning air. Bring along breakfast to savor while soaking in the atmosphere.
Spend your afternoon at the nearby Dell Diamond, home of the Round Rock Express, to catch a minor league baseball game if the season permits. If you prefer less sports, explore the playgrounds and picnic areas with family or friends. Cool down with an afternoon treat at a local ice cream shop.
Wrap up your day with dinner at Jack Allen's Kitchen, savoring some delectable Texas-inspired cuisine. Post-dinner, explore the local nightlife with a visit to various bars or breweries, enjoying craft beers with friends. Alternatively, spend a cozy evening in one of the parks, enjoying an outdoor movie night or concert if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥗Main course at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-5 |
| 🏡Rent (1 bedroom, city center) | $1,400-2,000 |
| 🚌Monthly public transport pass | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Austin while staying in a quieter, family-friendly city
- Strong parks and outdoor recreation; safe neighborhoods
- Limited nightlife compared to Austin
- Can get hot in summer; traffic near IH-35 during peak hours
Places to Visit in Round Rock
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic round water tower with a plaza and fountain, ideal for classic sunrise or skyline shots.
Historic storefronts and colorful murals along Main Street provide strong urban photography opportunities.
Distinctive stadium architecture and nighttime lighting perfect for sports and cityscape photography.
Water reflections and open spaces ideal for tranquil landscape photography.
Wooded views and creek perspectives at golden hour make for dramatic nature imagery.
Food in Round Rock
Round Rock Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoked brisket tucked into soft tortillas with pico de gallo, a popular fusion found in local BBQ joints.
Must-Try!
Tender smoked brisket, ribs, and sides like baked beans and coleslaw—commonly found at local BBQ pits.
Sweet Czech pastries adapted into local bakeries, great for a breakfast treat or pastry stop.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods on Saturdays.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual, polite, and respectful; small talk is common in service settings.
A friendly greeting is typical; tipping in service industries is customary and expected.
Safety
Tipping in Round Rock
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% for good service at restaurants; 10-15% for subpar service; tip bartenders and hotel staff accordingly.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common in many venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heat and humidity with daytime temperatures often in the 90s and potential afternoon storms; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening and stay hydrated.
Pleasant temperatures and drier air; ideal for outdoor sightseeing, festivals, and fall foliage spotting.
Mild to cool days with rare cold snaps; layering is key and holiday events bring seasonal cheer.
Warmer days with blooming landscapes and higher thunderstorm risk; best enjoyed with flexible plans around weather.
Round Rock at Night
Hiking in Round Rock
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails through woodlands and creeks, ideal for hiking and biking.
Accessible hiking and scenic overlooks within a short drive to Round Rock for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Round Rock by plane.
Major international airport about 20-25 miles south; easy access to Round Rock by car or rideshare.
Smaller regional airport located roughly 60-70 miles north; serves domestic flights.
Larger international airport about 160 miles south; alternative for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Family-friendly neighborhoods with good schools and numerous parks.
Growing population drawn by proximity to Austin and expanding job opportunities.
Diverse cultural mix with bilingual communities and local events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Round Rock Express plays at Dell Diamond, a major local sporting attraction.
High school football is popular in the region with community events and games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Round Rock.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer veggie fajitas, salads, and sides like beans and rice; ask for meat-free options and verify ingredients such as lard in sauces.