Oceans of Texas Bluebonnets await!
Every self-respecting Texan knows that in spring it is an absolute necessity to pay homage to the official flower of the Lonestar State – the majestic and pure bluebonnet. With the sun shining and warm weather incoming, bluebonnets are already to show signs of blossoming in southern Texas. See our list to find the best places to spot these beautiful bluebonnets across the state! As always, be sure to treat the areas with respect – don’t mess with Texas (bluebonnets)! [Featured image: @www.jasminealley.com]
1. Ennis
If you’ve never visited Ennis, the “Official Bluebonnet City Of Texas”, do not fret. Located a short drive southwest of Dallas, the bluebonnets in Ennis reach peak bloom around the third week of April – so there’s still plenty of time to plan a trip! With over 40 miles of trails winding through their famous blue fields the entirety of April, the trip is an absolute must. This year, the Ennis Bluebonnet Festival kicks off the weekend of April 16 – 18 with live music, arts & crafts, food, and more!
2. Brenham
Halfway between Houston and Austin, the middleground town of Brenham in Washington Country is renowned for ice cream, barbecue, and bluebonnets. Murals decorate downtown facades, patches of bluebonnets adorn resident porches, and bluebonnet fields blossom alongside Highway 290. For a closer look, the fields straddling FM 360 are more accessible for environment-friendly photo shoots!
3. Washington County
While we’re here, we should point out that Washington County as a whole is a worthy destination for wildflower sightseeing. The county is knitted with a framework of scenic roads running through Brenham, Chappell Hill, and Independence beset with spring wildflowers. Head to Independence Trail, Chappell Hill Lavender Farm, and the Antique Rose Emporium for ultimate sightseeing!
4. Fredericksburg
If the wineries, surrounding camp grounds, and adorably quaint downtown Main Street weren’t reason enough to visit the German town of Fredericksburg, add wildflowers and bluebonnets to the list. The town’s Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historical Site is populated with longhorns roaming in pastures of wildflowers. Acres of bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and yellow poppies can be spotted at Wildseed Farms, while Willow City Loop runs 13-so miles through brilliant fields of wildflowers.
5. Marble Falls
Located an hour west of Austin, Marble Falls is home to the one and only Bluebonnet House. Planted in the middle of a bluebonnet field off of Highway 281, the rustic home is oft the backdrop for springtime photo shoots and for good reason. The Turkey Bend Recreation Area on Lake Travis is also a sight for sore, mildly allergic, eyes.
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6. Llano
Not far out from Fredericksburg, the bluebonnets of Llano are a constant and wonderful delight in the springtime. While Highway 29 east and west, 16 north and east, as well as Highway 71 give sight to spectacular displays, visitors are also encouraged to take the dirt country roads for something a little more Texan. We’d be remiss if we didn’t also recommend stopping by Cooper’s BBQ for some top-notch barbecue.
7. Big Bend
The stars at night are not the only things that shine big and bright at Big Bend National Park. Named the second best place in America to stargaze, the park is also filled with bursting bluebonnets. Back in 2019, visitors were treated to a rare “superbloom,” due to the unprecendent amount of blossoming bluebonnets – let’s hope we see its return in 2021!
8. Kingsland
The town slogan of Kingsland is something out of a John Steinbeck novel: “where the rivers flow and bluebonnets grow”. When visiting the hidden gem, be sure to visit the Buchanan Dam bridge, and take passage down FM 1431. If you’re looking to shoot the album cover of your new country record, you can boot-scoot down to the Kingsland train tracks – be apprised, though, it is private property that requires permission for entry.
9. Poteet
Planted in Atascosa County, Poteet’s claim to fame is the birthplace of George Strait and annual Strawberry Festival. It’s also the birthplace of a myriad variety of spectacular Paintbrush, Sandyland and Texas Bluebonnets which reach peak bloom toward the end of March.
10. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Conveniently located in the state capitol, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center consistently harvests an awe-inspiring crop of bluebonnets. In addition to bluebonnets, the botanic garden is home to a gorgeous mix of native plants that include sunflowers, lilies, and paintbrushes!