Bite into a fresh jalapeño bacon cheeseburger served in a restored train car. Take a relaxing kayak ride along the Pecan Bayou. Sample award-winning Texas-made wines and beers from local brewers and winemakers. Experience legendary barbecue 90 years in the making. Shop more than a dozen trendy, locally-owned boutiques. Spend a weekend on a lakefront golf course resort. Attend a live performance at a beautifully preserved 1920s theatre. Snap some selfies on the mural trail.
All of this and more is why Brownwood feels like home. A Central Texas destination in the midst of fast-moving and extremely successful revitalization efforts, the community of Brownwood has become energized by the blending of classic small-town Texas charm with vibrant new activity from local entrepreneurs investing in downtown Brownwood while restoring and preserving the beautiful historic downtown buildings.
Whether you are a daytripper, foodie, RV enthusiast, antiquer, history buff, or just looking for a fun family road trip, Brownwood has something for everybody. Our community welcomes visitors from all over the world, and more and more people are discovering all of the great things Brownwood has to offer. We are situated in close proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, not too far away from Austin and Abilene, so chances are you just might find yourself closer to Brownwood than you think.
Brownwood has some iconic local businesses including Underwood’s BBQ, a Texas legend for over 90 years, as well as the Runaway Train Cafe, a 1950s-style diner set in a train car. And we can’t forget the award-winning Turtle Restaurant, featuring some of the best slow-food in all of Central Texas. The Lyric Theatre, one of the oldest still-operating theaters in the West, provides high-quality entertainment and a glimpse into the past.
Alongside these amazing established business owners, new businesses have grown over the past few years and have helped Brownwood’s downtown blossom into a lively, fun experience for all ages. Teddy’s Brewhaus, Pioneer Tap House, and Primal Brewing provide delicious Texas beer options, live music, and great atmospheres. 10 Mile Productions offers regional wines as well as fun events. Stone’s Grove has some of the coolest decor in the city and the best cocktails. CJ’s Cigar Lounge is another great option for unique drinks and the finest cigars. A new favorite, is Lucille + Mabel Kitchen and Libations featuring an extensive menu, cocktail options, and dry-aged steaks. If you find yourself in town on a Friday afternoon, be sure to search out for Baked Artisan Goods, a micro-bakery in downtown! If nightlife isn’t your thing, the Intermission Bookshop is a beautifully preserved building that once served as a theater that has become a hub for those looking for a good book and great conversation. Brownwood also has a variety of museums to explore including the Lehnis Railroad Museum & Visitor Center.
When it comes to shopping, Brownwood has so much to offer. Shaw’s Marketplace offers a curated vendor marketplace with everything from gourmet popcorn to women’s boutique clothing and camping equipment. Matt’s Mantiques hits a home run with its concept that brings vintage signs, motor works, and sports memorabilia under one roof. Clothing boutiques are in ample supply as well with Earth and Noble, Glamour Shop, Hamilton’s, and the Hen House providing a variety of styles and options. Brownwood also has unique antique and curiosity shops including Saturday’s and Duke Street. You can easily spend a weekend shopping all around town with our local business owners who are the heart of our community.
Brownwood also features outdoor fun with the nearby Lake Brownwood State Park, featuring hiking trails, reservable spaces, and boat ramps to experience Lake Brownwood. We also have an outstanding Aquatic Center open during the Summer months that kids absolutely love. Numerous parks are scattered across the city featuring disc golf, playscapes for the kids, and kayaking and paddleboarding along the Pecan Bayou.
If you have never considered visiting Brownwood, now is the time! Check out our website below, where you can plan your trip, find unique places to stay—like the Star of Texas Bed and Breakfast or the The Hideout Golf Club & Resort—discover our mural trail that highlights creativity and artists from the region, and find out why Brownwood feels like home.
