Texas is known for several things, and one of them is the spectacular bluebonnet flowers that blanket the state every spring.
As the Texas state flower, the bluebonnet is revered and celebrated and for good reason. The flower symbolizes bravery and sacrifice — two qualities that align well with the history of the Lone Star State.
As this renowned bud is now hitting its peak bloom, you might be wondering how to best capture the sight before the blooming period ends in late April.
House Beautiful — a magazine focused on interior decorating — has compiled a list of the top seven places to see bluebonnets in Texas.
Austin: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
If you prefer to stay in the city, head to Austin’s Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center — but be sure to make a reservation!
This garden got its start as a research center in 1982 at another location in East Austin.
Now it serves as Texas’ state botanical garden and arboretum on La Crosse Ave.
General admission costs $15, and there are reduced fares available for children and seniors.
Visitors can enjoy walking trails, art exhibits, and educational programs at the center.
There are plenty of wildflower displays, including bluebonnets.
Additionally, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center provides wildflower bloom forecasts across Texas, as well as real-time reports of the blooms.
You can even spot blooms virtually on the center’s Instagram account.
Big Bend National Park: Home of the Big Bend Bluebonnet
While most bluebonnet destinations are in Central Texas, that shouldn’t stop you from heading to Big Bend National Park to see the tallest species of bluebonnet — the Big Bend bluebonnet.
This impressive bloom, also known as Lupinus havardii, can reach up to three feet tall.
Act fast if you want to see those blue hillsides, as this species blooms a little earlier than elsewhere in the state.
Visitors can enjoy a hike in the park while admiring the stunning bluebonnet displays.
Brenham: Bluebonnet Hotspot
Brenham, together with its surrounding towns, is a highly sought-after location for bluebonnet enthusiasts.
The town of around 17,000 lies between Houston and Austin.
Bluebonnets flourish along the town’s roadways, in parks, and in open fields. Check out the driving map etched out by the local authorities.
After a scenic drive, visitors can enjoy a taste of Brenham’s renowned Blue Bell ice cream at the local creamery.
Burnet: The Official Bluebonnet Capital of Texas
Just northwest of Austin, Burnet is a Texas Hill Country town that has earned the title of the Official Bluebonnet Capital of Texas.
The town hosts an annual bluebonnet festival, which falls on Easter weekend this year.
It typically draws some 35,000 people to the area.
Visitors can enjoy the festival’s parade, live music, food vendors, competitions, and more.
Ennis: The Official Bluebonnet City of Texas
Located outside of Dallas, Ennis is a city that boasts over 40 miles of driving trails specifically designated for prime bluebonnet viewing.
They are the oldest known trails in the state.
The Ennis Garden Club recommends coming around the third week of April to see peak blooms.
The city is also home to the annual Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival, held this year from April 14 to April 16.
During the festival, visitors can experience a wide range of bluebonnet-themed events and activities, including guided walking tours, live music, as well as arts and crafts shows.
Tickets can also be purchased here for the Wine Wander event for adults looking to taste some wine and visit downtown as well.
Fredericksburg: Wildflower Farm and Willow City Loop Scenic Drive
Another Hill Country town, Fredericksburg, is home to Wildseed Farms on Legacy Drive, the country’s largest wildflower farm.
Visitors to the farm can witness bluebonnets and other wildflowers in full bloom.
A biergarten and wine-tasting room are also on offer, so guests can sample some of the region’s specialty products.
But if you want to see bluebonnets in the wild, go for a spin on the Willow City Loop.
The 13-mile drive offers breathtaking views of bluebonnet fields, as well as other wildflowers, which are expected to be particularly striking this year.
Marble Falls: Home of the Bluebonnet House
Located just down the road from Burnet, Marble Falls is a town with its own unique bluebonnet attraction — the Bluebonnet House.
To get there, head north on Highway 281 toward Burnet.
This iconic yet abandoned house, situated in the middle of a bluebonnet field, is a popular spot with photographers.
While on Highway 281, visitors can also stop by the century-old Blue Bonnet Café.
The establishment serves up delicious homestyle comfort foods and delectable pies loaded with whipped cream or meringue.
Breakfast is served all day long.
