About 50 miles north of Austin and 50 miles south of Waco along Interstate I-35 sits the village of Salado, home to the Stagecoach Inn, the second oldest continuously operating hotel in the state, Salado College Park, a historical site where a co-educational university once stood, and an undeniable spirit of creativity. It’s the type of town where shop owners remember your name after just one visit and where you can take part in glass-blowing, browse for antiques, and visit an array of galleries all within one afternoon.
With history spanning to the mid-1800s and archaeological records dating even further, there’s a lot to explore. Here are the best things to do in Salado, Texas.
What To Do
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Get Lost in a Maze of Antiques
There are antiques galore in Salado. Salado Creek Antiques, Village Mill Antiques, and Fletcher’s Books & Antiques, a shop offering antique furniture, art, rare books, rugs, and more, is ideal for those who love the art of the hunt. Fletcher’s owner, Tyler Fletcher, is always happy to show visitors his collection, an impressive assortment of one-of-a-kind finds. After a trip to Fletcher’s, walk through the connected chapel yard, which features a storage shed-turned-small Episcopal church with just four pews.
Pick Up Some Pottery
Where can you find handcrafted pottery and more than 20 flavors of fudge in one spot? Only at Mud Pies Pottery on Main Street. Pick up some new ceramic flatware and try one too many free samples. If you still have a sweet tooth, the Salado General Store with its serve-yourself-candy and jelly bean stations, and gelateria, Vecchio Pallino, are good options.
Support a Local Band
Despite the town’s size—covering just 2.2 square miles—there are always opportunities to listen to live music. Head to Axis Winery on a Friday night for a glass of wine and live music or Barrow Brewing for music on Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons.
Craft Your Own Custom Glassware
While there are many places to stop in for those who appreciate art, Salado Glassworks is a must-visit. In operation for more than 20 years, they offer hand-blown glass works, group classes, as well as memorial glass for a special way to remember a loved one. Pick up a new piece and be sure to say hi to the shop cat, Rex.
Enjoy the Arts
Salado is known for its multiple galleries like Griffith Fine Art Gallery and Wells Gallery, a gallery featuring wildlife paintings. If you’re wanting some fresh air, the Salado Sculpture Garden, featuring metal sculptures and contemplative paths, is a refreshing place to rest or take a seat on a colorful butterfly chair. You’ll find them dotting Main Street.
Where To Eat
Courtesy Happy Pizza Co.
Where the Locals Gather
Since opening in 2016, Chupacabra’s has become a watering hole for those that live in Salado and those lucky enough to visit. The menu includes craft beer on tap, wine, and a casual mix of burgers, wings, and sandwiches. Plus, they offer trivia on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.
Grab a Slice
Located in Barrow Brewing’s Biergarten is Happy Pizza Co., a wood-fired pizza food truck, dishing out the perfect meal to pair with a local brew. On a warm day, enjoy a slice while dipping your feet in Salado Creek.
Enjoy a Refined Meal
If you’re looking for something more formal, head to The Barton House, a Southern steakhouse located in a historic limestone home built in 1866. In addition to steak, you can find plates like lobster, mussels, chicken piccata, and sesame-crusted tuna. Alexander’s Craft Cocktails and Kitchen is another option for a fine dinner with menu items including citrus-poached shrimp cocktail and pan-roasted halibut.
Where To Stay
Courtesy The Stagecoach Inn
A Historic Haunt
The Stagecoach Inn is one of the town’s most famous stops, and for good reason. Opened in 1860, it served as an important point along the Chisholm Trail and has hosted guests such as Sam Houston, Robert E. Lee, George Custer, and Jesse James. The mid-century modern inspired guest bedrooms are peaceful and colorful with turquoise tile and peaceful patios. The hotel is also dog-friendly.
A Cozy B&B
Inn on the Creek, a multi-building property originally constructed in 1892, is another place to consider for a tranquil stay oozing with history. Choose a king room in The Manor, select a bungalow, or book a room with an antique clawfoot tub for the ultimate weekend getaway.
