Situated about 50 miles north of Austin and 50 miles south of Waco along Interstate I-35, you’ll find the charming village of Salado. This quaint town is home to the Stagecoach Inn, the second oldest continuously operating hotel in the state, as well as Salado College Park, a historical site that was once a co-educational university. With a vibrant spirit of creativity, Salado is a place where shop owners remember your name after just one visit, and where you can immerse yourself in activities like glass-blowing, antiquing, and exploring various galleries all in a single afternoon. Steeped in history dating back to the mid-1800s and even earlier archaeological records, Salado offers plenty to discover. Here are some top things to explore in Salado, Texas.
1. Antiques Galore: Lose yourself in a treasure trove of antiques at spots like Salado Creek Antiques, Village Mill Antiques, and Fletcher’s Books & Antiques. Owner Tyler Fletcher delights in showcasing his unique collection, featuring antique furniture, art, rare books, rugs, and more. Don’t miss the chapel yard connected to Fletcher’s, where a small Episcopal church fashioned from a storage shed awaits with just four pews.
2. Handcrafted Pottery and Sweet Treats: Visit Mud Pies Pottery on Main Street for handcrafted pottery and over 20 flavors of fudge. Indulge in free samples, or check out the Salado General Store for self-serve candy and gelateria Vecchio Pallino for even more sweet options.
3. Live Music Scene: Despite its small size of 2.2 square miles, Salado offers ample opportunities for live music lovers. Enjoy live performances at Axis Winery on Fridays, or head to Barrow Brewing for music on Friday and Saturday evenings as well as Sunday afternoons.
4. Artistic Glassware: Art enthusiasts must make a stop at Salado Glassworks, a studio that has been creating hand-blown glass art for over two decades. Browse their collection, take a group class, or consider their memorial glass as a unique tribute to a loved one. Don’t forget to greet Rex, the resident shop cat!
5. Art Galleries and Gardens: Explore the art galleries along Main Street, such as Griffith Fine Art Gallery and Wells Gallery showcasing wildlife paintings. For a breath of fresh air, visit the Salado Sculpture Garden with its metal sculptures and peaceful paths, perfect for a moment of contemplation on a colorful butterfly chair.
For dining options in Salado:
– Chupacabra’s: A popular spot since 2016, offering craft beer, wine, and a casual menu of burgers, wings, and sandwiches. Join in on trivia nights held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
– Happy Pizza Co.: Located in Barrow Brewing’s Biergarten, this wood
ter, mussels, chicken piccata, and sesame-crusted tuna. Alexander’s Craft Cocktails and Kitchen offers a delectable dining experience with menu options such as citrus-poached shrimp cocktail and pan-roasted halibut. If you’re looking for a place to stay in the area, The Stagecoach Inn is a historic gem that dates back to 1860. This renowned stop along the Chisholm Trail has welcomed notable figures like Sam Houston, Robert E. Lee, George Custer, and Jesse James. The guest bedrooms are thoughtfully designed with a mid-century modern flair, featuring turquoise tile accents and serene patios. Plus, the hotel is pet-friendly. For a cozy and charming stay steeped in history, consider checking into Inn on the Creek. This multi-building property, originally built in 1892, offers various accommodation options including king rooms in The Manor, bungalows, and rooms with antique clawfoot tubs for a perfect weekend escape.
