Planning a Hill Country getaway and wondering what to do in Marble Falls, Burnet, and the surrounding area? This corner of Texas blends small-town charm, outdoor adventure, fascinating history, and even a few spooky legends. Whether you’re looking for hiking trails, wildlife encounters, or a taste of local culture, here’s your guide to the best attractions near Marble Falls.
Animal Encounters & Wildlife Attractions
Horse + Bow (Marble Falls)
Experience the Hill Country up close with intentional horse interactions, ranch life activities, and even mindfulness-based archery.
Exotic Resort Zoo (Johnson City)
A drive-thru safari park with more than 600 animals representing over 50 species. Families love the guided tours and petting zoo.
Reptilandia – Reptile Lagoon (Johnson City)
This unique zoo houses an incredible collection of reptiles and amphibians from around the world, showcased in climate-controlled exhibits.
Texas Wildlife Park (Marble Falls area)
An appointment-only facility for small-group encounters with lemurs, capybaras, and more.
Outdoor Adventures in Marble Falls & Burnet
Longhorn Cavern State Park (Burnet)
Explore stunning underground caverns on a guided tour, then enjoy the Civilian Conservation Corps–built park grounds.
Inks Lake State Park (Burnet)
A favorite for camping, swimming, and hiking. Don’t miss Devil’s Waterhole, perfect for a swim or cliff jump.
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
Great for birdwatching, hiking, and spring wildflowers — and home to the endangered golden-cheeked warbler.
Pedernales Falls State Park (Johnson City)
A short drive from Marble Falls, this park features waterfalls, rapids, and rugged trails.
Other Outdoor Highlights
- Shaffer Bend Recreation Area
- Turkey Bend Recreation Area
- Hidden Falls Adventure Park
- Spider Mountain Bike Park
- Reveille Peak Ranch
Spooky & Strange Attractions in Marble Falls & Burnet
Dead Man’s Hole (Burnet County)
A natural sinkhole with a dark Civil War history. Though sealed for safety, the site and marker remain a must-see for legend hunters.
Burnet County Historical Jail Museum (Burnet)
By day, it’s a museum of local history — but its stone walls and cells give off just the right ghostly vibe.
Baby Head Mountain (Llano)
Named for mysterious frontier folklore, this peak and nearby cemetery intrigue history buffs and ghost story lovers alike.
Art & Culture in Marble Falls and Burnet
Belóved Gallery (Marble Falls)
Featuring the internationally acclaimed works of Akiane, this gallery is both reflective and inspiring.
Museo Benini (South of Marble Falls)
Set on 35 acres, Museo Benini celebrates the life and works of Italian artist Benini.
Sculptures on Main Street (Marble Falls)
Take a stroll through downtown and enjoy outdoor art installations along Main Street.
Falls on the Colorado Museum (Marble Falls)
Housed in a historic 1891 granite school, this museum explores local history, geology, and the Highland Lakes.
Fort Croghan Museum (Burnet)
Learn about pioneer life and the original frontier fort established in 1849.
Other Cultural Stops
Itinerary for Your Marble Falls Getaway
The Marble Falls and Burnet area is ideal for weekend getaways or day trips from Austin and San Antonio. Here’s how to structure your time:
- Day 1: Hike and swim at Inks Lake, then explore Longhorn Cavern.
- Day 2: Meet the animals at Horse + Bow, followed by an afternoon at Balcones Canyonlands.
- Day 3: Add in spooky legends like Dead Man’s Hole or tour the art at Belóved Gallery.
Plan Your Visit to Marble Falls
From outdoor adventures to quirky legends and inspiring art, there’s no shortage of things to do in Marble Falls and Burnet County. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer Hill Country stay, you’ll leave with new stories, photos, and maybe even a few goosebumps.
✨ Ready to plan your trip? Start with Horse + Bow for a one-of-a-kind ranch and horse experience right here in Marble Falls.