For hundreds of years, the tiny little Village of Salado has welcomed visitors and Texas legends alike. Salado offers a friendly atmosphere deep in the heart of Texas.
You might be asking yourself “So where did this tiny town come from? Why is this somewhere people want to visit anyways?” Well let me start wayyyyy back at the beginning. The story of Salado goes hand in hand with the Republic of Texas. Here, you can experience the history that makes this history of Texas SO inspiring. You can walk the grounds and ruins of one of the nation’s first co-ed colleges, or even check out the Gault Site- which is the home of some America’s very first settlers. Only a 15 minute drive out from Salado, you can have the chance to explore this site with archaeologists. Another peek into history can be taken by joining a lantern-lit stroll down Salado‘s historic Main Street where you can get lost in tales of cowboys, Indians, buried treasure, and ghosts!
Where do you stay? There are so many unique choices- guaranteed to have the best southern hospitality around!
From Texas’ second oldest hotel, historic inns, cute bed and breakfasts, to more common hotels with names you trust, you’ll be sure to find something that is just right! Let’s highlight a few of my favorites:
Salado’s Shady Villa Hotel was one of the first lots sold in 1860. Thomas Jefferson Eubanks built the Salado House Hotel to house travelers along the stagecoach route. It’s location is perfect- on the banks of Salado Creek and is the oldest, continuously operating hotel in Texas, hosting guests such as Sam Houston, Robert E. Lee, George Custer, Shanghai Pierce, Sam Bass and the famous Jesse James.
The Inn on the Creek is nestled beside beautiful Salado Creek. Recline in hammocks or relax in rocking chairs listening to the sounds of the spring fed creek and enjoy the shade of towering oaks. FUN FACT!! Inn on the Creek is a part of BedandBreakfast.com’s Diamond Collection of properties – one of only ten in the State of Texas!
The Salado Inn is conveniently located within walking distance to all the action! Each suite comes with a private restroom and entrance. This Inn is absolutley gorgeous and made for hosting events! From the crystal chandeliers to the reclaimed wood floors and exposed wood beams… you will find the attached Creekside Wedding Venue to be the perfect place for your next event.
Salado has it ALL. Traditional Texas tastes at historic sites, hip coffee joints, upscale dining, bistros, and other delectable specialties that will make all your Instagram followers jealous! Here are two of my personal favorites:
Alexander’s Craft Cocktails & Kitchen
Alexander’s offers several floors of dining, with verandas overlooking the creek on each floor. It’s deep purple and copper walls let you cozy up and contrast the amazing art representation from local galleries. The stunning view of Salado Creek provide the perfect spot to enjoy your favorite beverage and excellent appetizers, salads, shared plates, entrées and sweet treats. Located right in the Inn on the Creek, Alexander’s is named after the distillery that was located on the grounds from 1861-65, which washed away in a flood. FUN FACT!! Alexander’s was voted “One of the Best Intimate Meals in Central Texas” by the Killeen Daily Herald’s Reader’s Poll.
And if you love BEER… visit Barrow Brewing Company!
Located on Salado Creek, Barrow Brewing Company brews Texas craft beer in a restored 1950’s granary. Each beer was inspired by family history, characters in the Village of Salado, and an abiding love of Texas. Get a peek directly into the brewing area from the taproom as you have a pint of quality craft beer from the source. They also offer growlers and growler refills to go so you can take your favorites home with you. The taproom is kid and dog friendly and they hve lots of games and live music to keep you entertained.
ALL THIS SOUNDS GREAT, I know… but what is there to do besides eat, drink, and sleep? There’s LOTS! Let’s take a look at some popular spots:
Mill Creek features three nine-hole courses designed by world renowed architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. The courses weave and flow around Salado Creek and are surrounded by towering Oak and Elm trees. The casual atmosphere of the facility, the beauty of the environment and the classic test of the golf course combine to provide one of the finest golf experiences in Texas. Whether you come with just yourself or a large group, Mill Creek will not dissapoint.
Salado Glassworks is a glassblowing studio and gallery that specializes in one of a kind custom blown fine art glass. Owned by artist Gail Allard, the artwork in the gallery ranges from custom art installations or sculptures to signature vessels and vases as well as full blown lighting solutions. There is also a large selection of hand blown glass stemware, mugs, tumblers and sippers as well as other gifts and decor. They welcome commissions and offer the opportunity for you to experience the live art being created in their working studio. They host family friendly “Blow Your Own” events offer the chance experience and interact with the art of glassblowing for yourself by assisting in the creation of pumpkins, ornaments, keepsake bowls and beer mugs.
Feeling festive? Experience the magic of Christmas in the Village EVERY YEAR during the Annual Salado Christmas Stroll, held the first 2 weekends of December. Salado’s Boutiques will be open for extended hours and will be well stocked with a variety of unique merchandise, so you are sure to find something for everyone on your Christmas list. Sip hot chocolate while strolling (or taking a horse drawn carriage) down Main Street’s beautifully lit sidewalks.
No matter what you’re looking to do, there is something you will love in Salado. I have been going with my family & friends for years and have loved it each time because you are certian to find something new and unique with every trip! Whether you come from near or far, I hope you get the chance to visit Salado.
