things to do
in castroville, texas
Castroville is one of the Hill Country’s most quietly charming destinations. With deep Alsatian roots, scenic river views, and a pace that encourages you to slow down, it offers a refreshing alternative to busier Texas towns.
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Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a weekend escape from San Antonio or Austin, or a stay centered around great food and scenery, Castroville offers meaningful experiences without the crowds.
This is a place to explore, linger, and enjoy at your own rhythm.
Explore Castroville’s Alsatian History
Castroville is known as the Little Alsace of Texas, founded in the 1840s by European settlers whose influence still shapes the town today. History here feels lived in rather than staged, and it is best explored slowly.
Castroville Historic Walking Tour
One of the best ways to experience the town is through the Castroville Historic Walking Tour. This self guided tour leads visitors through the Historic District, highlighting more than fifty preserved homes and buildings dating back to the mid nineteenth century.
As you walk, you will notice distinctive stone construction, Alsatian influenced design, and plaques that share stories of the families who shaped the town. The route is easy to follow and allows you to explore at your own pace, making it a relaxed way to connect with Castroville’s past.
Steinbach Haus
The Steinbach Haus offers a deeper look into the town’s European roots. Originally built in Alsace, France, the house was later transported and reconstructed in Castroville. Today it serves as a cultural landmark that gives visitors insight into daily life, craftsmanship, and traditions from the town’s early days.
Landmark Inn State Historic Site
Set along the Medina River, the Landmark Inn State Historic Site provides another layer of history. The preserved buildings, shaded grounds, and river views offer a peaceful place to learn about early Texas travel and hospitality while enjoying the natural surroundings.
All of these historic sites are just minutes from Hillside Boutique Hotel, making it easy to explore during the day and return to comfort and scenic views in the evening.
Stay close to Castroville’s history by staying at Hillside.
Enjoy the Outdoors at
Castroville Regional Park
Castroville Regional Park offers an easy way to enjoy the outdoors without leaving town. Spanning 126 acres on the southwestern side of Castroville, the park blends wooded landscapes with scenic views along the Medina River.
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Guests can enjoy a peaceful walk along the one mile hiking trail, relax under shaded trees, or spend time by the river taking in the natural surroundings. The park also features open green spaces, a pavilion, and an amphitheater, making it a welcoming spot for both quiet moments and community gatherings.
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Nature lovers will appreciate the variety of wildlife found here, including more than 160 species of birds. The park is also home to one of only three butterfly gardens in Texas, adding an unexpected and colorful element to a visit.
Browse Local Boutiques and Shops
Shopping in Castroville is relaxed and personal. Small, locally owned boutiques and antique shops line the historic streets, offering vintage finds, home decor, and thoughtful gifts you will not see everywhere else.
It is easy to wander, browse at your own pace, and discover something unexpected along the way. Many guests enjoy pairing an afternoon of shopping with a walk through the Historic District before returning to Hillside for dinner and evening views.
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Local Events, Shopping, and Golf
Castroville offers simple pleasures that make a stay feel well rounded. On the first Friday of each month, Fiorella Friday brings the historic downtown to life as Fiorella Street closes to traffic and local boutiques, shops, and restaurants welcome visitors for an evening of strolling, music, and community atmosphere. It is a favorite way to experience the town and discover local businesses in a relaxed setting.
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For guests who enjoy time on the course, the Alsatian Golf Club is just minutes away and offers an easy, scenic round surrounded by Hill Country landscapes. Many visitors pair a morning of golf or an afternoon of shopping with dinner at La Colline and a quiet evening back at Hillside.
Eat and Drink Well in Castroville
Dining is an essential part of the Castroville experience. Meals here feel intentional, unhurried, and rooted in place.
La Colline at Hillside Boutique Hotel
At the heart of Hillside is La Colline, the hotel’s on site restaurant inspired by Alsatian cuisine and Texas ingredients.
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The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it ideal for date nights, celebrations, and relaxed dinners after a day of exploring. The cocktail program is thoughtful and balanced, and the menu offers elevated comfort dishes designed to be enjoyed without rush.
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Guests staying at Hillside love the ease of enjoying an exceptional meal without leaving the property.
Famous Pastries and Local Favorites
No visit to Castroville feels complete without a stop at Haby’s Bakery. A longtime local favorite, Haby’s is known for its classic pastries, pies, and baked goods that generations have grown up with.
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It is an easy and enjoyable stop while exploring town, whether you are picking up something sweet in the morning or grabbing a treat to enjoy later. Many guests love pairing a bakery visit with a walk through the Historic District before returning to Hillside to relax and prepare for dinner.
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For a leisurely afternoon, Medina River Winery offers a casual tasting experience surrounded by Hill Country scenery. It is an easy addition to a day spent exploring Castroville and nearby areas.
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Many guests enjoy visiting the winery before returning to Hillside for dinner at La Colline or relaxing on the property as the evening sets in.
Live Entertainment and Movies at Rainbow Theater
Castroville is also home to the Rainbow Theater, a local venue that adds a fun cultural element to a stay. Guests can catch a movie, enjoy live music, or experience live entertainment in an intimate setting that feels personal and relaxed.
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Several bars and restaurants in Castroville host local musicians throughout the week. Catch a local country singer at Schattenbol or Elevate on Fiorella.
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It is an easy evening outing and a great option for couples or families looking to add something different to their visit. Many guests enjoy attending a show or film before returning to Hillside for a quiet night or a late dinner at La Colline.
Stay Close to It All at Hillside Boutique Hotel
Many of Castroville’s most memorable experiences are just minutes from Hillside Boutique Hotel, making it easy to explore during the day and return to comfort, views, and thoughtful hospitality in the evening.
From scenic overlooks to historic sites and dining, Hillside serves as an ideal home base for discovering Castroville.