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How to Have a Perfect Day in Salado, Texas

August 21, 2017 by Danielle Fritz 15 Comments

Day Trip to Salado Texas

No matter the time of year, you can make good use of a free Saturday or Sunday by taking a day trip. Forty-five minutes north of Austin lies the village of Salado, a quaint town whose main street offers a variety of attractions that will interest visitors of any age. The street itself is only about one mile long, but browsing the shops and cafes can fill a whole day.

Where to Eat in Salado

McCain’s Bakery & Cafe

A post shared by Free Fun In Austin (@freefuninaustin) on May 13, 2016 at 7:28am PDT


Main street has plenty of free parking spaces in front of shops, as well as larger lots near the north and south ends. Start your day with a hearty meal, then start walking. At McCain’s Bakery & Cafe, you’ll find lots of friendly locals enjoying mostly traditional American fare, homemade kolaches, and other bakery items, for breakfast and lunch.

417 North Main, Salado, TX – Yelp

Lively Coffee House & Bistro

Lively Coffee House & Bistro Salado

Lively Coffee House & Bistro serves build-your-own toast and other cafe entrees

Lively Coffee House & Bistro lies at the middle of main, tucked behind a shop called Magnolias (walk underneath a series of flags to find it).

With its inviting atmosphere, this cafe is a respite from the heat and another opportunity to jump on the toast train. You can build your own toast, with a variety of sweet and savory toppings, ranging from Nutella to Brie. Sandwiches are available for those wanting a little more substance.

21 North Main, Ste 4, Salado, TX – Website

Johnny’s Steaks and BBQ

A post shared by Andie Livengood Jodko (@andieblive) on Oct 13, 2016 at 12:00pm PDT


If you prefer barbecue with breakfast, Johnny’s Steaks and BBQ is on the other side of I-35. They have a full breakfast menu, but I recommend stopping there on the way home. Their cheeseburger on a homemade jalapeño cheddar bun will guarantee you don’t get hungry heading south, especially when paired with crispy fried okra and blackberry cobbler.

If visiting on a Saturday night, check the live music calendar. Recent concert headliners have included Pat Green and Gary Allan.

301 Thomas Arnold Rd., Salado, TX – Website

Where to Drink in Salado

Chupacabra Craft Beer

A post shared by Elijah (@hudson__elijah) on Jun 25, 2017 at 6:49pm PDT


Walking along main street, you’re bound to get thirsty. Chupacabra Craft Beer features only Texas draft beers, with flights to aid indecisive drinkers. Not a beer connoisseur? Wines from different regions are available, as well. Bring your dog; bring your squad. This pooch-friendly hangout has ample seating and free popcorn, so everyone can hang out for a bit.

401 S. Main St., Ste. 105, Salado,TX – Website

Things to See and Do in Salado

Every shop along main street has its own unique vibe. Locally-owned and locally-loved, you’ll find products personally made or curated by the owners.

Mud Pies Pottery

Mud Pies Pottery and Chocolate Salado

Mud Pies features clay bakeware, serving dishes, and 40+ flavors of fudge

Mud Pies Pottery has been in business for over 20 years. Owner Titia Arledge showcases her own pottery and that of her students, from a university class she teaches. While you’re browsing stone bakeware and serving dishes, make sure to sample Sir Wigglesworth’s homemade fudge, too.

18 N. Main St., Salado, TX – Facebook

Ro Shaw Clay Studio

Ro Shaw Clay Studio Salado Texas

Ro Shaw Clay Studio showcases a variety of ceramic and wood art pieces

Ro Shaw Clay Studio offers functional ceramics, such as beer growlers perfect for filling up at Barrow Brewing Company across the street, as well as individual raku and wood art pieces. Open studio wheel sessions and scheduled classes are available for those interested in learning the craft or needing a fun date idea.

#2 Peddlers Alley, Salado, TX – Website

Salado Glassworks

Salado Glassworks

Salado Glassworks’ Aaron Gist showcases hand-blown products (and his muscles)

Salado Glassworks hosts their popular Blow-Your-Own events alongside their gallery, which showcases custom pieces created by Gail Allard and Aaron Gist. Reservations for events can be made online, and aspiring artists can blow their own glasses and mugs in September, pumpkins in October, and ornaments in December. Reservations go quickly, but if you’re not able to get a ticket, you can purchase products in the gallery.

#1 Peddlers Alley, Salado, TX – Website

Oo la la Gifts

Walkable Salado Texas

Main street in Salado is pedestrian-friendly with bridges and wide street shoulders suited for walking

Several shops, such as Oo la la Gifts, showcase a Sirena Shop designation. The Salado Sirena Shops consist of independent retailers who are just a little off the beaten path of main street, and have formed an alliance to support each other through customer patronage. Each shop gives customers a complimentary necklace or charm with purchase, along with offering excellent merchandise and customer service.

Lisa Jackens, owner of Oo la la, is part of the relatively new Sirena Shop program. The name is a nod to the actual Sirena of Salado (an Indian mermaid from local legend whose sculpture is located by Salado Creek).

555 Pace Park, Salado, TX – Facebook

Salado Creek

Salado Creek Entrance

Salado Creek intersects the middle of main street

Troy Kelley’s bronze sculpture of Sirena welcomes visitors to Salado Creek, which intersects main street. With picnic tables and shallow waters, it’s a great place to take a break from shopping. Don’t be afraid to act like the locals and take off your shoes. I saw several families in the creek with water chairs and rafts, so consider packing yours, too!

Chalk Ridge Falls Park

Chalk Ridge Falls Salado Texas

Walk a quarter mile from the main entrance into Chalk Ridge Falls Park to find a quiet oasis

For more privacy, drive 10 minutes north to Chalk Ridge Falls Park in Belton. One exit north of main street, go west on FM 2484 for about one mile; turn right onto FM 1670 north for about 3.5 miles; then right again at the park entrance.

After driving into the park, a parking lot will appear, and the trailhead will be right next to it. Only a quarter mile of hiking will lead you to a small fall, and the shady trails and relatively quiet atmosphere will be the perfect ending to your day.

5600 FM1670, Belton, TX

Nearly every block of main street in Salado houses a locally-owned eatery, brewery, gallery, or boutique. I spent a day browsing just a few blocks’ worth and listening to the business owners tell their stories. I’m already planning a return trip (for a weekend, not just a Saturday) to explore the rest.

If you haven’t taken the short drive up north yet, expect to be pleasantly surprised! With a variety of festivals and events, Salado is worth the 45-minute trip. Just be aware that shops close around 5 p.m. on most days, and some are closed on Sunday.

For information about upcoming events, individual shop information, and lodging, visit salado.com.

 

@theAustinot wants to know:

What is your favorite place in Salado, Texas?

 

Danielle Fritz enjoys exploring new places and eating all the things. Follow her on Instagram and let her know your favorite places to try.

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Filed Under: Day Trips, Discoveries

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Comments

  1. Astrid Hanover says

    August 22, 2017 at 6:25 pm

    Barrow Brewery 784!!! The Shed, pulled pork nachos, potato pizza!!!! How are these not on the list!!!!!! Salado Glassworks!!! The best, It’s HOT in there !!!!

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    • Danielle Fritz says

      August 23, 2017 at 1:48 pm

      Thanks for the recommendations! I’m actually going back this weekend and plan on checking out both Barrow and The Shed Friday night…I’ve heard The Shed has great burgers and Ro Shaw mentioned Barrow as well. There are so many great places to check out that I quickly realized a weekend trip was in order! = )

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  2. Katy Moore says

    August 23, 2017 at 9:33 pm

    I love ❤️ the Salado Antique Mall, 751 N. Stagecoach Road
    Open Thursday-Monday. They also have a Market Day the 2nd Weekend of Every Month
    Saturday & Sunday 9 – 5. Your sure to find some one of a kind treasures, & dinner at the historic Stagecoach Inn.

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    • George Renninger says

      December 7, 2020 at 2:48 pm

      Yes great place.

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  3. Katy says

    July 1, 2020 at 12:35 am

    I love ❤️ the Salado Antique Mall, 751 N. Stagecoach Road
    Open Thursday-Monday. They also have a Market Day the 2nd Weekend of Every Month
    Saturday & Sunday 9 – 5. Your sure to find some one of a kind treasures, & dinner at the historic Stagecoach Inn.

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  4. Mud Pies Pottery says

    August 24, 2017 at 12:10 am

    Thank you so much! We are a strong family in Salado!❤️

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    • Danielle Fritz says

      August 31, 2017 at 11:03 pm

      Enjoyed visiting your shop and bought a couple slices of fudge for home. = )

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  5. Jay Ford says

    August 27, 2017 at 2:45 pm

    Thanks for the great article on Salado and some of our favorites. Feel free to drop by LoneStar eBikes for a free test ride in order to burn off some of Mud Pies fudge & Barrow’s brews. In fact, join Barrow on an evening bike ride on Monday or Thursday.

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    • Danielle Fritz says

      August 31, 2017 at 11:01 pm

      Sounds great, Jay! Will definitely check out the eBikes next time.

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  6. Mary says

    August 28, 2017 at 2:53 pm

    What? No Barrow Brewing? They actually brew on site. For Shame! And, yes, definitely check out Mud Pies…..and The Shed! Super super glad for a mention of Lively, though! Their sandwiches are TO DIE FOR!

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    • Whatever says

      August 29, 2017 at 1:15 pm

      Hater lol

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      • Mary says

        August 29, 2017 at 1:30 pm

        I know what’s good in my town!

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    • Danielle Fritz says

      August 31, 2017 at 11:00 pm

      Mary, I had a chance to check out Barrow last weekend when I went back. Loved the atmosphere and am a big fan of their coffee beer!

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  7. Danielle Fritz says

    August 31, 2017 at 11:11 pm

    We tried the Stagecoach for after-dinner drinks (and ended up eating a second dinner because their burgers looked so good)! Food was yummy and they had tasty drinks too!

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  8. Jim says

    July 1, 2020 at 12:34 am

    I love the strawberry Patch. Best coffee and gourmet foods to sample. Can’t believe it isn’t on this list. And, what about Barrow Brewery? Are you kidding? Another must stop in Salado.

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