Lockhart is the barbecue capital of Texas, but that’s not all they have going for them. Here are our five of our favorite things to do in Lockhart, Texas!
5 Free Things To Do In Lockhart
1. Marvel at the Caldwell County Courthouse
There are so many beautiful buildings to see in Lockhart and your first stop should be the Caldwell County Courthouse. Often called the most photographed courthouse in Texas, you may have seen it on screen in projects like HBO’s “The Leftovers” and the films Waiting for Guffman or What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. The courthouse was built in 1894 in the Second Empire architectural style and is nearly identical to the courthouse in Goliad County, Texas.
2. Tour the Caldwell County Jail Museum
Located on the site of the county’s first log jail, this five-story red brick structure was built in 1908-09. It contains nine main cells, each divided into smaller compartments on the upper three floors. You can see them for yourselves by visiting the museum on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. – or you may schedule an appointment by calling (512) 398-5879.
3. Relish in that old book smell at the Dr. Eugene Clark Library
The oldest continuously operating library in the State of Texas, the architecture of the Dr. Eugene Clark Library has been a source of curiosity to many professional architects. The library is visited annually by amateur and professional architects, including regular visits by architecture majors from the University of Texas. They do host free events but even if an event isn’t happening, a stop by this historical building is worth it.
4. Visit Lockhart State Park
Just a 45-minute car ride south of Austin, this 260-acre park is the perfect place to escape. The park offers short, flat trails ideal for novice hikers and fishing is as easy as casting your line—no license required. There is a small fee for adults ($3) but children 12 and under are free.
5. Learn the value of time at the Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches
Located on the square in the shadow of the courthouse clock tower, the Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches is a well-known tourist attraction drawing visitors from all over the world. The only other major museums in the country devoted to clocks and watches are in Columbia, PA, and Bristol, CT. Admission is always free, but they are only open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment.
