Yes to Bluebonnets: Best Spots to See Wildflowers in Texas - Kissing Tree
Mar 16th, 2018

Yes to Bluebonnets: Best Spots to See Wildflowers in Texas

Spring in Texas means sunny skies, warmer temperatures and, of course, wildflowers everywhere. From the bluebonnet, the state flower of Texas, to vibrant perennials including Indian paintbrush, verbena and primrose, the Lone Star State is awash with color during the spring.

Throughout the Texas Hill Country, there are myriad out-of-the-way spots where you can view wildflowers in all their glory. According to conservative estimates, there are about 5,000 wildflower varieties in the Hill Country. Bluebonnets and other types of flora and fauna are also on display in big cities and surrounding many popular attractions.

Here are some of our favorite spots to see wildflowers in Texas.

Bluebonnet House, Marble Falls

A 90-minute drive from Kissing Tree along state Highway 281 in Burnet County, Marble Falls boasts scenic roadways and a small-town feel. It’s home to the famous Bluebonnet House, which dates from the mid-19th century and is considered among the most photographed structures in Texas. In the spring, the fields surrounding Bluebonnet House turn a lovely shade of periwinkle, thanks to the beautiful blooms of its namesake wildflower.

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Part of the University of Texas at Austin since 2006, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center keeps the former first lady’s legacy alive: Ms. Johnson was dedicated to the preservation of natural landscapes in Austin and across her home state. The Wildflower Center houses around 650 distinct species within its 279 acres, and the facility is open to visitors seven days a week.

The Ennis Bluebonnet Trails

In 1997, Ennis was named the “Official Bluebonnet City of Texas.” Every spring, the city hosts its Ennis Bluebonnet Trails, a 40-mile stretch of mapped roadways that showcase the glory of Texas wildflowers, especially the bluebonnet.The Ennis Garden Club acts as sponsor of the scenic drive, which is the oldest of its kind in the state of Texas. Insiders recommend a visit sometime near the third week in April, when blooms are at their peak.

You can also learn more about the state flower, purchase handcrafted art, and celebrate local culture at April’s Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival. The 67th incarnation of the annual event will be held from April 20-22 in 2018.

The Beauty of the Hill Country

Wildflower viewing can be a solo activity, but it’s more fun in the company of others. No matter if you’re looking for picture-perfect photo opportunities or just want to spend some time surrounded by blue, red, and yellow blossoms, March and April are considered prime wildflower viewing months in Central Texas.

Related Articles

Feb 07th, 2024
Fans of Tarbox & Brown are likely familiar with our dear Chef Chanel, who…
Read the Article
Jan 25th, 2024
The next time you’re in the Kissing Tree Welcome Center, keep an eye out…
Read the Article
Nov 07th, 2023
Here at Kissing Tree, we talk a lot about our New Home Counselors. There’s…
Read the Article