The City of Elgin was created by the Houston and Texas Central Railroad in 1872 and named after Robert Morris Elgin, the railroad’s land commissioner, as was the practice back then to name a new railroad town after an officer of the company.
The city owes its existence to a major flood on the Colorado River in 1869. Originally, the railroad was to have run from McDade, ten miles east of Elgin, southwest to the Colorado River at a point somewhere between Bastrop and Webberville, then to Austin, following the river.
Besides the history, and obviously the world-class BBQ, Elgin offers a big taste of small town Texas!
Meyer’s Elgin Smokehouse – 188 US-290, Elgin, TX 78621
Known as ‘Cuetopia, Texas, Meyer’s has been rolling out world-class BBQ since 1949. A four-generation family-owned business, the Meyer family has been perfecting their family’s secret sausage recipe, as well as mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and chicken for hungry Texans for almost seven decades. Stopping here first or last, this Elgin hot spot is too good to pass!
The Elgin Depot Museum – 14 Depot Street, Elgin, TX 78621
Please call ahead for museum hours. Upon arriving at the historic Union Depot, discover an extensive archive collection, providing a detailed look at the communication equipment since the town’s founding. The museum features permanent and rotating exhibits as well as an extensive collection of historic photographs from the area. The museum gift shop sells books and souvenirs, like local postcards, depot logo patches and hats, as well as Elgin made afghans. (All proceeds go to the upkeep of the museum.)
Elgin Antique Mall – 195 Hwy 290, Elgin, TX 78621
The Elgin Antique Mall provides over 8,000 square feet of year-round treasure shopping–collectibles, glassware, oak furniture, toys, advertising, and knives – plus more! Open daily from 10AM to 5PM. (Closed on major holidays.)
Liberty Tree Tavern – 117 N. Main Street, Elgin, TX 78621
If you’re looking for a refreshing beverage and some live music in a building that was once a funeral home, then the Liberty Tree Tavern is for you. Rumor has it there’s a ghost or two keeping the taps cold! Give them a call at (512) 285-5555 to find out which talented singer-songwriter is performing. No kitchen, but full bar and free peanuts.
Down Home Ranch – 20250 FM 619, Elgin, TX 78621
Down Home Ranch is a 410-acre working farm, empowering people’s lives through residential, educational, social, and vocational programs such as residency, ranch camp, or respite opportunities. Get in touch to donate, tour, or shop. (512) 856-0128.
Hogeye Festival (October 24 – 26) – 109 Depot Street, Elgin, TX 78621
If you’re fortunate enough to visit Elgin toward the end of October, you’re in for a “Sooooie” treat! The streets are closed down for an annual cook-off, arts and crafts, a Road Hog Car Show, live music, a carnival, talent show, a kids parade, and SO much more!
Thomas Memorial Park – 411 Madison Street, Elgin, TX 78621
Are you in the mood to get outside and burn off some of those easy-earned BBQ calories? The Thomas Memorial Park would treat you right. It’s a 12-acre park, featuring several ball fields, picnic tables, a nine-hole disc golf course, volleyball court, a playground, and trail systems.
White Fences Equestrian Center – 10908 Jones Road, Manor, TX 78653
Located just outside the Elgin city limits, and just 15 minutes from Austin, you’ll find the White Fences Equestrian Center. They offer lessons, boarding, training, and shows, as well as guided trail rides. The trail rides take you through miles of rolling hill country and forest trails. Suitable for all experience levels.
Sip, Shop & Stroll – Main Street, Elgin, Texas 78621
Every second Thursday of the month from 5pm to 8pm, local retailers invite folks to sip, shop and stroll their way through downtown Elgin. You’ll find live music, beer and wine tastings, store specials and more with extended store hours and specials throughout town. Hope to see you there!
The Old Coupland Inn and Dancehall – 101 Hoxie Street, Coupland, TX 78615
Eat. Drink. Dance. If you’re staying in Elgin, you don’t want to miss The Old Coupland Inn & Dancehall located just 10 minutes from downtown Elgin. Built in 1904, the building began as the Coupland Drug Company in 1911. It’s changed hands from doctors, to newspapers, and now, to a tavern. The building now has a restaurant, dancehall with live music, and rooms to book in their unique 1800s wild west brothel-style Bed and Breakfast. Order up some delicious chicken fried steak and experience the dancehall with live music Fridays and Saturdays (and, sometimes Sundays!)
