Welcome to Dripping Springs
Known as the “Gateway to the Hill Country,” Dripping Springs offers a magical blend of wide-open landscapes, small-town character, and elevated Texas hospitality. Located just west of Austin, this picturesque community captures the heart with its rolling hills, historic charm, and vibrant local scene. It’s where rustic meets refined—where you can sip craft wine overlooking a vineyard in the afternoon and enjoy a gourmet dinner in a beautifully restored farmhouse by night.
Though Dripping Springs has seen impressive growth, it’s held tightly to its roots. The downtown core still exudes old-town charm with boutique shops, local bakeries, and community gathering spots. Beyond Main Street, sprawling ranches and luxury estates offer room to roam while the region’s flourishing food, beverage, and cultural scene continues to draw attention from across the state. Peaceful, stylish, and brimming with personality, Dripping Springs feels like a true Hill Country escape.
What to Love
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Wineries, distilleries, and breweries galore
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Stunning Hill Country landscapes
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Artisanal shops and locally owned eateries
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Family-friendly festivals and community events
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Proximity to Austin with a laid-back rural vibe
Local Lifestyle
Life in Dripping Springs moves at a more intentional pace. It’s the kind of place where mornings begin with a fresh-baked croissant from a local café, afternoons are spent exploring vineyards or hiking scenic trails, and evenings wrap up under a sky full of stars. The community is close-knit yet welcoming—perfect for families, creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone drawn to a blend of nature and culture. It’s a lifestyle that celebrates good food, great company, and the quiet luxury of space and simplicity.
Dining and Shopping
Dripping Springs has an exciting culinary scene that punches well above its small-town weight. At Rolling in Thyme & Dough, a charming café and bakery set in a converted home, locals flock for artisan sandwiches, baked goods, and locally roasted coffee. The garden patio is a favorite for leisurely weekend brunches and quiet catch-ups.
Tillie’s at Camp Lucy is a true standout for something elevated and unforgettable. The restaurant is located on a lush Hill Country resort property and offers a stylish blend of global influences and Texas ingredients. Think lacquered pork belly, house-made pasta, and inventive cocktails served in a luxurious and grounded venue.
The local shopping scene is equally special. The Mercantile at Mill & Grain offers curated home décor, gifts, and locally made goods in a thoughtfully designed space. Just down the road, Homespun Kitchen & Bar delivers comfort food with flair—crispy fried chicken, craft cocktails, and a warm, rustic vibe that keeps guests coming back.
Things to Do
There’s no shortage of adventure and entertainment in Dripping Springs. Outdoor lovers are spoiled for choice, with Hamilton Pool Preserve and Pedernales Falls State Park just a short drive away. Miles of trails, swimming holes, and picnic areas invite spontaneous getaways, while the region’s minimal light pollution makes it one of the best places in Central Texas for stargazing.
Local events bring the community together year-round. The Founders Day Festival is a beloved tradition packed with parades, live music, food vendors, and hometown pride. Throughout the year, residents also enjoy the Dripping Springs Farmers Market, seasonal fairs, and a booming scene of wineries, craft breweries, and distilleries—many of which offer tastings, live music, and panoramic views of the Hill Country.
Schools
Dripping Springs is served by the highly respected Dripping Springs Independent School District (DSISD), which is known for its academic excellence and strong extracurricular programs. Elementary options include Dripping Springs Elementary, Rooster Springs Elementary, Sycamore Springs Elementary, and Walnut Springs Elementary. Middle schoolers attend Dripping Springs Middle School or Sycamore Springs Middle School, while high school students benefit from the outstanding programs at Dripping Springs High School. With a commitment to student success and community involvement, DSISD plays a key role in making the area ideal for families.
