Things To Do
Explore Austin
We know it may not be possible for everyone, but if you’re traveling from out of town, we’d love for you to experience as much of our beloved Central Texas as you can! We recommend joining us for the sunset cruise Thursday and staying in Austin Thursday night. Then, consider spending Friday exploring some of our favorite parts of the city. Grab a coffee, wander South Congress, take a dip at Barton Springs, and enjoy some of Austin’s incredible food before making your way up to quaint Salado for the wedding weekend. We hope you’ll make a little vacation out of it and fall in love with the place we call home!
Barton Springs Pool
There is so much to explore in Austin! Take a dip in the iconic Barton Springs Pool and enjoy one of our favorite ways to experience the natural beauty of the city. It’s the perfect place to slow down, soak up the Texas sunshine, and cool off on a warm afternoon.
South Congress Avenue
South Congress Avenue, or “SoCo,” is one of Austin’s most iconic areas, filled with charming boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, and plenty of Austin character. Take a stroll down the avenue, snap a photo in front of the famous “I love you so much” mural, pop into a few shops, and enjoy a taste of classic Austin!
University of Texas at Austin
Take a stroll around the University of Texas, Emma’s alma mater, and explore the beautiful campus, historic buildings, and restaurants and shops nearby. Be sure to stop by the iconic UT Tower for a quintessential Austin photo op and a glimpse of where Emma spent her college years (mostly studying)! Hook ’em!
The Domain
The Domain is Austin’s go-to destination for upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment, with plenty of luxury and designer stores to explore. Spend an afternoon browsing the shops, grabbing a bite, or enjoying a little retail therapy before the wedding weekend begins. And if you happen to forget your tie, shoes, or a last-minute wedding outfit, don’t worry! You can find just about anything you need here.
Shopping in Salado
Salado is full of charming boutiques, antique shops, and local treasures, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering through the historic village. Be sure to stop by Maks’ Boutique and explore the many antique shops along Main Street for unique finds, Texas treasures, and gifts to take home. Fun fact: If you’re visiting Salado around the holidays, don’t miss the Salado Christmas Stroll, a beloved annual tradition that transforms the historic village into a festive Christmas wonderland filled with twinkling lights, holiday shopping, and seasonal events.
Barrow Brewing Company
Located right across from our wedding venue and hotel, Barrow Brewing is a Salado staple and a favorite among locals. Set along the Salado Creek, it’s a great spot to grab a cold drink and relax. William and Emma especially love riding their bikes here from the Villamaria family farm on the weekends, so it felt only right to include one of our favorite Salado spots!
Prellop Fine Art & Framing
Take a break from exploring Salado Main Street and step inside Prellop Art Gallery to experience a beautiful collection of Texas artwork. The gallery features a beautiful mix of paintings and other works from talented Texas artists. It’s a wonderful place to get a feel for the creativity and character of the Lone Star State, and you may even find a special piece to take home!
Stagecoach Inn
Whether or not you’re staying at the Stagecoach Inn, be sure to stop by for a meal or a drink! This historic Salado landmark is one of our favorite places in town, with delicious food, great drinks, and plenty of Texas charm. It’s the perfect spot to relax, grab a bite, and soak in a little of the history and character that makes Salado so special.
Salado Glassworks
For a truly unique Salado experience, stop by Salado Glassworks and watch a local artisan create beautiful glasswork right before your eyes! If you’d like to try your hand at it, you can also book a hands-on glassblowing session and make your very own piece to take home. Reservations are recommended for the hands-on experiences, so be sure to plan ahead. Depending on the season, you can even create your own Christmas ornaments or other festive pieces, making for a very special souvenir from your time in Salado!
McCain's Bakery & Cafe
McCain’s Bakery is a beloved local favorite in the heart of Salado and the perfect place to start your morning with a cup of coffee and something sweet. Be sure to stop in for one of their famous cinnamon rolls, along with an assortment of freshly baked breads, pastries, and other treats. Grab something to enjoy as you wander through town!
The Strawberry Patch of Salado
A quaint, cozy coffee shop in the heart of Salado and a favorite local spot to grab a coffee and relax. Strawberry Patch is veteran-owned and the perfect place to start your morning or take a little break while exploring town!
Bar 1859
Stop by Bar 1859 for a drink and a taste of Salado’s laid-back Texas charm. Think Yellowstone meets small-town Texas, with plenty of character and a good cocktail. Meet us here after our wedding reception for an after party!