Dripping Springs
The best way to see Drippin' (as the locals call it) is without applying your brakes. 
There is little to actually see in the town. Most people choose to live here because of its proximity to Austin and it's award winning school district, DS Independent School District.
Located about 35 miles west of Austin.
It also has some beautiful pieces of land that are still reasonably priced.
Home Depot just opened with an HEB following close behind, which will further make it a spot worth missing.
However, there are some natural wonders within 15 minutes of downtown that will cool you down in the heat of the summer and shouldn't be missed.
- Hamilton Pool
- Pedernales Falls
- Reimer Ranch, mountain biking -- this will heat you up
Dripping Springs Restaurants
Nutty Brown Cafe: This place looks like a shack not worth stopping for. The cheesy 20' cowboy sign out front doesn't help matters. But what awaits you inside and especially out back is eye-popping. A huge wooden deck with a friendly "caged" parrot to enjoy the evening and occupy the kids.
Tips:
- Tuesday is "99 cent dinner for kids" (12 and under)
- Check their website for the live music calendar
Atmosphere: casual and fun, moderately priced
Directions: From Austin head West on Hwy 290. They are on the South side of Hwy 290, about 5 miles before Dripping Springs. Look for the cheesy 20'cowboy sign.
Lodging
Memory Lane Bed and Breakfast: Two suites with private entrances. B&B is located behind a private, gated lane. Pool, spa and wireless internet.
Mt Gainor Inn: 93-year-old farm house with hill country views.
"The decks are adorned with comfortable rockers, ceiling fans and conversation nooks. Step through the rock wall and you will find the landscape is blooming. Settle back in the hammock to read your favorite book and enjoy the gentle breeze."
Drive Times
Getting from one place to another takes time in the Hill Country. Texas is a big state and there's a lot of land to traverse. I've put together a drive time grid of how long it takes to get from one place to another.
Roadtrips through the Hill Country
The very thought of a roadtrip sparks energy in the air. As a college student, my best friend and I would stock the car with candy bars, sodas and enough clothing to last a week. We'd head off to Vegas or the mountains or sites yet unknown for an overnight.
