Did you know that Round Rock is named after an actual round rock that settlers used to cross Brushy Creek in the 1850s, and you can still visit it today? If you didn't, there are probably a few other surprises just waiting to be discovered on your next trip to Round Rock.
Only 15 miles north of Austin, the Sports Capital of Texas is home to one-of-a-kind attractions like America's largest indoor waterpark and unique treats like an Instagram-worthy 14-inch-wide doughnut. On top of all that, it boasts spectacular shopping and dining and a calendar packed with must-attend events.
Here are just a few ideas for your next getaway:
Upcoming events
Any time is a good time to visit, with Round Rock Market Days happening the first Saturday of each month and Music on Main Street occurring each Wednesday during the spring and fall.
From March 31-April 2, 2023, see stunning sugar creations from some of the world's most talented bakers at That Takes The Cake. In April, travel back in time for Williamson Museum Pioneer Days and then celebrate the Juneteenth Festival before the July 4th Frontier Days Celebration.
Chalk Walk Arts Festival takes over in October and then it's time for Dia de los Muertos and the annual Rockin’ Around The Holidays Bazaar, both in early November. Raise a glass to Beaujolais Nights on the third Thursday of November before it's time for the Holiday Model Train Exhibit and Light Up The Lake in December.
Play ball
Round Rock earned its Sports Capital of Texas title because of the world-class facilities located throughout the city, including Dell Diamond stadium where the Round Rock Express, the Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, play. Delicious dining, activities like a rock wall and a bungee trampoline, and family photo opps also await at Dell Diamond.
Head outdoors
There are more than 2,270 acres of parks and open spaces for visitors to enjoy here. A variety of outdoor activities can be enjoyed at Old Settlers Park, the crown jewel of Round Rock’s park system. The 640-acre park features seven playgrounds, disc golf, cricket, 20 baseball fields, a five-field softball complex, soccer facilities, fishing at Bright Lake, football fields, 40 picnic areas, a remote-control airplane area, and much more.
Speciality parks include the Play For All Abilities Park and Dog Depot Dog Park. Hit Brushy Creek Trail for 20 miles of terrain to bike, run, or leisurely walk. And of course you'll want to view the Round Rock at Chisholm Trail Crossing Park.
Make sure to practice your swing at Round Rock's top-rated golf courses, Forest Creek Golf Club and Teravista Golf Club, during your visit.
Make a splash
The authentically African-themed Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is the site of America’s largest indoor waterpark, at 223,000 square feet. It boasts 30 waterslides, 20 pools and whirlpools, a wave pool, wave simulator, and much more.
Kalahari is also home to Tom Foolerys, an indoor adventure park complete with arcade games, escape rooms, laser tag, and zip lining. Visitors won’t want to miss out on the relaxing spa treatments at Spa Kalahari, plus the artisan-style shopping and award-winning dining offered at Kalahari.
Dig in
Speaking of dining, Round Rock is home to a variety of local restaurants offering authentic Italian, Texas barbecue, and dishes from around the world. No stop to Round Rock is complete with a stop to the famous Round Rock Donuts, where you can order the 14-inch-wide Texas Size Donut for the entire family. Some other local spots that rock include Liberty Barbecue, Palermo Pasta House, and Rock N Grill Authentic Indian Cuisine.
Shop to it
Come for the Texas-Size Donut, stay for the Round Rock Premium Outlets. This open-air mall is home to 125 designer and name-brand outlet stores. For Round Rock souvenirs and other Texas centric items and unique finds, drop into boutiques such as Rhae Boutique, Mercantile On Main & Haute Boutique, Mays Street Boutique, Cristales - The Boutique, and Tammy Kay’s Boutique.
At Kalahari Resorts & Conventions you'll find Amatuli, an outdoor marketplace featuring handcrafted items made by local artists and African craftsmen, and Marrakesh Market, the perfect place to find a souvenir at the end of your trip. Ikea and Bass Pro Shops are also popular places to stop and shop during a visit.
History abounds
Downtown Round Rock is the site of the gunfight and subsequent capture — and then death — of train robber Sam Bass by a member of the Texas Ranger Division on July 19, 1878. Bass is buried in Round Rock Cemetery located northwest of “Old Town” on Sam Bass Road.
Get a glimpse of Round Rock's past when you view artwork from Texas sculptor Jim Thomas. He was commissioned by the city to create a 1.5 scale, 22-figure bronze sculptural composition depicting life along the Chisholm Trail in the late 1800s.
You can get more glimpses into the past by admiring the historical architecture of the Old Broom Factory, the J.A. Nelson Co. Building, the Masonic Lodge/Old Post Office Building, and more. Historical homes include the Nelson-Crier House (also known as the Woodbine Mansion), Palm Valley House, and Palm Valley Mansion.
Tour the Firehouse Museum and the Williamson County Old Settlers Association to gain even more insight.
Where to stay
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions has proved to be a sought-after lodging option for family, friends, and lovebirds alike thanks to its unique African-themed decor and one-of-a-kind attractions.
Visitors also rest easy in many of the local hotels, including the newly opened Embassy Suites by Hilton, Holiday Inn, La Quinta Inn & Suites, and more. For boutique experiences, The Ruby Hotel is the perfect boutique hotel for fun Instagram photos and a memorable stay.
Learn more about Round Rock and plan your next visit here.
Round Rock sign
Round Rock was first settled in the 1850s.
