Castroville Day Trip
If you’re looking for a unique day trip experience close to home, look no further than Castroville TX! Located just 45 minutes from San Antonio, this small town boasts big attractions and plenty of family-friendly activities.
Each time I make the drive from San Antonio to Leakey, I drive through Castroville Texas. Castroville is a picturesque little town with a German influence on my way to see my husband’s parents.
It takes 20 minutes or so to get to Castroville from our house in San Antonio by way of Loop 410 and then get on Highway 90 West. Slow down as you approach it or you will get a ticket! There are some great eateries and a pretty river.
I used to work with some people who live there and they hated the commute each morning into San Antonio, but they really enjoyed living out there. There is no big industry for anyone to make a living out there. There are small shops, a bakery, a jerky shop, and tourist places. If you want to make real money, you need to go to San Antonio unless you are a teacher or a shop owner.
Explore the Historic Mission Espiritu Santo
Explore the Historic Mission Espiritu Santo, located in nearby Goliad, Texas, and home to one of the most influential Spanish colonial missions in Texas. The mission was established by Father Antonio Margil de Jesus in 1722 and was named for the Holy Spirit. Although it has been damaged by war, floods, and fires, it still stands today as a reminder of Texas’s rich history.
Mission Espiritu Santo served many important roles during its heyday including being a place of prayer, education, trade, and refuge for native peoples such as the Karankawa Indians. Visitors to Mission Espiritu Santo can explore its ruins and learn about how life was lived here centuries ago. From examining artifacts such as tools used by local tribes to learning about Spanish colonial architecture, there is something interesting for everyone at this historic site.
Take a Stroll Through Zorn Park
Zorn Park in Castroville, Texas is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. With its sprawling green grass, winding walking paths, and picnic areas, this park is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s also conveniently located in the heart of Castroville, making it an ideal place to spend some quality time with family and friends while enjoying nature’s beauty.
The park has something for everyone – from open fields to playgrounds to fishing spots. Restrooms are available onsite so visitors can take full advantage of all Zorn Park has to offer without having to worry about finding a bathroom elsewhere. A variety of trees decorate the area as well; offering shade during hot summer days or providing stunning views during fall foliage season. There are also plenty of benches for resting or just taking in the sights and sounds around you.
Shop at the Castroville Farmers Market
The Castroville Farmers Market is a weekend staple for residents in Castroville, Texas. Every Saturday morning, locals flock to the market for fresh produce and homemade goods from local vendors. The farmers market offers something for everyone; from seasonal fruits and vegetables to homemade jams, jellies, and baked goods.
The market also features an array of specialty items such as organic soaps, candles, and jewelry crafted by local artisans. For those looking for unique gifts or souvenirs, the markets are an excellent place to find one-of-a-kind items that can’t be found anywhere else. In addition to shopping at the farmers market, visitors can indulge in delicious food truck cuisine while listening to live music performances from local bands every week. There is something fun for everyone at the Castroville Farmers Market!
Visit the Magnolia Hotel Museum
The Magnolia Hotel Museum in Castroville, Texas is the perfect visit for anyone looking to learn more about the history of this small town. Located in the heart of historic downtown, it’s a great way to get a glimpse into what life was like here many years ago.
Built over 150 years ago, the Magnolia Hotel has been lovingly preserved and now provides an interactive experience that allows visitors to explore its past as a stagecoach stop and hotel. The museum offers self-guided tours through period artifacts and photographs that detail the area’s rich heritage between 1840 and 1940. With an audio-visual presentation featuring original voices from local citizens, travelers can feel connected to Castroville’s ancient roots while learning how it has changed over time.
Go Hiking at Hill Country State Natural Area
Head to Hill Country State Natural Area for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Located in Castroville, Texas, the area is renowned for its unique combination of hills, rivers, and meadows. Take a few hours or even a day to explore the stunning landscapes and discover why this park has become such a popular destination.
The 5,300-acre state natural area is home to many species of wildlife ranging from whitetail deer and coyotes to armadillos and songbirds. The terrain offers hikers the opportunity to traverse rolling hillsides while admiring breathtaking views along the way. With trails ranging from easy one-mile paths to more challenging ones up to 8 miles long, there’s something here for everyone looking for their next adventure in nature.
Stop by Alsatian Village
When you visit Castroville, be sure to stop by the Alsatian Village. This restored village was built in the early 1800s and is the only one of its kind in Texas. It’s a great way to learn about old-timey life – plus it makes for some really cool photo ops! Don’t miss out on all of the local restaurants either – they offer delicious food with a Texas twist that your family will love. Make sure to grab dessert at The Big Dip Ice Cream & Treatery – their soft-serve ice cream is especially popular among visitors!
Just take U.S. Highway 90 west and you will run right into it. Stop and feed the ducks at the Medina River. Then stop by one of the eateries for a relaxing lunch. Haby’s Alsation Bakery is the place to get something good to eat. The sweets here are heavenly, but they are not open on Sundays.
The funny thing about this town is that they are not open 24/7. If you want to be sure and see everything, plan your visit on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday. On Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, most things are closed. Some places are closed on Wednesday as well. At most, you will need only a few hours to explore on your way to visit another town such as Leakey.
Each year in early December, they have an old-fashioned Christmas.
San Antonio to Castroville TX
Driving from San Antonio to Castroville, TX is relatively straightforward. The most direct route is to take I-10 West for about 40 miles until you reach the exit for US-90 West. You’ll then drive on US-90 for another 30 miles until you reach Castroville.
If you’d like to take a more scenic route, consider taking I-37 South and then turning onto FM 471 East. This will take you through some of the beautiful Texas Hill Country and should add an additional 20 minutes or so to your drive time.
No matter which route you choose, make sure to give yourself plenty of time and be mindful of other drivers on the road. Enjoy your trip!