4 Destinations to Take In Texas Bluebonnets and Other Wildflowers
The sun’s staying out longer, and April showers are starting to drizzle over the plains which means one thing: Texas is about to bloom with wildflowers.
The Lone Star State is home to some 2,700 different wildflower species, including the Indian paintbrush, pink evening primrose—and of course—the beloved bluebonnet. They’re all just about ready to bloom, blanketing the fields and lining the highways. And that’s why now is the perfect time to plan a Texas wildflower road trip.
Lucky for us Texans, our state is home to some tried-and-true destinations to enjoy these picturesque views during peak bloom time, with wildflower season generally running from late February through October (although, bluebonnets typically only bloom in the spring).
So, grab your camera and pack up the car. Here’s your guide to the best bluebonnet and other wildflower destinations in the Lone Star State:
Fredericksburg
In Fredericksburg, do not miss Wildseed Farms—the nation’s largest working wildflower farm. There, you will find beautiful fields of blooms and lots of family-friendly activities, as well as the option to buy bluebonnets and wildflower seeds.
Another flower viewing option in the area is to join the swarm of day-trippers on what is called the Willow City Loop, a 13-mile trail that winds along lush meadows and farmland near Fredericksburg. Most of the property you will pass is privately owned, so just enjoy the views along this drive. Stopping and trespassing for photos is a no-no.
Austin
For wildflowers blooming near the big city, Austin has you covered. You can spend the day in awe of nature and still take in the nightlife on Sixth Street. That’s a win-win.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, located in the heart of the capitol city, celebrates the Texas’ former First Lady’s love of nature. With 650 native Texas plant species in the gardens, the center includes gardens, hiking trails, a family garden, guided tours, and a cafe. Basically, if you want to get a Texas wildflower education, this is the place.
Marble Falls
The terrain of Marble Falls produces swoon-worthy Texas wildflowers. Plus, it’s a quick trip to Burnet, where Inks Lake State Park has been recognized by the Texas Legislature as The official Bluebonnet Capital of Texas.
Another must-see stop is The Bluebonnet House. It has long been an iconic backdrop for photographers. Located at 4554 North Highway 281 in Marble Falls, this Burnet County landmark is an abandoned two-story, mid-19th century limestone structure, resting on an idyllic swath of prairie. Professional and amateur photographers alike gather around the outside of the fence to capture this peaceful and romantic scene.
Ennis
Not all the bluebonnets are in South and Central Texas. In fact, one of the best bluebonnet viewing spots is located right here in DFW. The town of Ennis lays claim to the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails, with more than 40 miles of mapped driving trails for peak viewing in the month of April.
Less than an hour’s drive from Fort Worth, the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails are some of the oldest in Texas, and Ennis has been designated as the home of the Official Texas Bluebonnet Trail by the Texas State Legislature and the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas (you know, because Texas needs an official capital, city AND trail for bluebonnets).
Explore the Best Texas Wildflower Destinations While They're In Season
Texas has so much beautiful wildlife to discover, we hope you can find a spare weekend during wildflower season to visit one of these locales and take in all the beauty the Lone Star State has to offer.