Best Small Towns To Visit in Texas
Texas is full of charming small towns, each offering its own unique slice of culture, history, and natural beauty. One hidden gem you shouldn’t miss is Hico—a historic town with Old West charm, boutique shopping, great food, and live music. Whether you’re enjoying locally made chocolates at Wiseman House, sipping craft cocktails at Oma Leen’s, or strolling through its walkable downtown, Hico is the perfect mix of small-town nostalgia and fresh experiences.
Morning Coffee, Breakfast, & Shopping in Hico
2nd Street Social in Hico is a unique all-day hangout serving coffee, boba, breakfast, lunch, and craft beer. Inside, you’ll find retro arcade games, a cozy library, and plenty of seating, while outside offers a laid-back patio. Whether you’re stopping by the drive-thru for a quick bite or relaxing with friends over lunch, 2nd Street Social blends small-town charm with a fun, modern vibe.
Koffee Kup Family Restaurant, located at the junction of Highways 6 and 281 in Hico, is a true Texas legend, famous for its made‑fresh‑daily pies. With over 16 flavors like coconut meringue, black forest, banana blueberry, and its unique “Doctor’s Office” pie draw visitors from far and wide. Alongside their award‑winning dessert case, they serve hearty Southern comfort food all day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including burgers (like the jalapeño cream cheese burger ranked among Texas Monthly’s best), chicken‑fried steak, daily lunch specials, and larger than life onion rings.
Hico Mercantile, housed in a beautifully restored 1890s opera house on Elm Street in historic downtown Hico, offers a delightful shopping destination. Inside, shop artisan vendors that fill two stories with farmhouse décor, unique gifts, clothing, jewelry, antiques, art, candles, and local goods—every corner showcasing handcrafted charm and Texas creativity.
Afternoon in Historic Hico, Texas
Green Canoe Outfitters & Beer Garden, located in Historic Hico, blends stylish men’s apparel, outdoor gear, and a lively taproom into one unforgettable spot. Browse top brands like Orvis and Howler Brothers while sipping craft beer in the outdoor courtyard. With live music on the patio, a relaxed beer garden vibe, and friendly staff, it’s a standout hangout in the Hico scene — perfect for a pit stop on a road trip, or as a destination all it’s own.
Stop by Goin2Be in Historic Downtown Hico for specialty coffee drinks, creamy gelato, delicious smoothies, daily lunch specials, and breakfast. Check out their wide selection of hand picked food market items to savor on the ride home.
The Midland Hotel and Chop House, anchored in Historic downtown Hico, is a beautifully restored landmark featuring 14 uniquely designed guest rooms, along with a scratch kitchen and Texas steakhouse with a French-Creole influence. Stop by for hand crafted cocktails, and a menu crafted from scratch by Chef Eric Hunter.
Evening in Historic Hico
A trip to Hico isn’t complete without a little live music, and HiCo Hall is just the place. Enjoy free live music on Friday nights at 6pm, and Sundays at 3pm, and monthly ticketed concerts to get your music fix. Sip a cold beer or hand crafted cocktail at their full bar and soak in the small town vibes.
For dinner, Oma Leen’s is a farm-to-table restaurant in downtown Hico, serving elevated, expertly crafted food with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Housed in a beautifully restored building in downtown Hico, the restaurant offers a chef-driven menu that changes often, along with a top notch drink menu. With its historic bar and warm, nostalgic atmosphere, Oma Leen’s is a must-visit dining destination in Hico. While you’re in town, be sure to check out other local favorites like Jersey Lilly’s for classic Tex-Mex, and Giovanni’s for pizza and pasta.
Keep the party going at Wild Saddle Saloon, a lively bar in historic downtown Hico, Texas, perfect for a night out. They’ve got several pool tables, including a weekly billiards tournament, a full bar serving fine spirits and cold beer, karaoke, and a weekly bingo night.
Staying at The Henry in downtown Hico is an immersive blend of boutique charm and modern comfort. Nestled atop Oma Leen’s in a historic limestone building, this chic hotel features six uniquely themed rooms, each richly designed for a memorable stay, making Hico one of the best small towns to visit in Texas.
