Rashida Wright

Visiting cities nearby can open your eyes to the everyday wonders within driving distance. While international travel can be exciting and life-changing, local “staycations” can spark an attitude of gratitude for the areas nearby. They are also excellent when you’re itching to go somewhere but your budget is not conducive to a lavish trip 😊  

As a current resident of Kyle, Texas, I am always amazed by the cool cities surrounding the greater Austin area that are beefing up their downtown scene and making themselves an attraction of their own. But it’s not just happening in central Texas, it’s happening all over the U.S. And if you are curious and a little wanderlust-y (yes, I said wanderlust-y), like me, you’re interested in seeing what these places have to offer. So, this is the beginning of a travel series I would like to call Small Town Travels. I am starting with central Texas (which has plenty of to cover) and will branch out to other places as we explore these gems together. The first city we’re checking out is Buda!

And it’s…

Byoo-dah not Buddha.

#BTX is just 15 miles south of the “Live Music Capital of the World” and it is a laid-back town teeming with community-centered events, local art and a little country charm. At times, it can feel like a less congested extension of Austin, since a good number of the local establishments have sprawling outdoor seating, a heavy emphasis on live music and a couple outposts of some of Austin’s hottest restaurants. However, it’s the people of Buda that give you permission to stop by and “breathe easy” while you’re passing through.

It may be small, but Buda is loaded with cool things to do from the morning into the evening. And after relaxing, shopping and dining around downtown you realize you didn’t even get to do everything that you planned to explore. This list isn’t a complete one, nor is it a “how to do Buda” manifesto. I’ll leave that up to you 😉 So, take it on in a day or make it a mini vacay and stay for the weekend. Just make sure it is an experience all your own.

Sights & Scenes

Soak in the sunshine at Historic Stagecoach Park.

Take a leisurely stroll around the 51-acre green space complete with a small pond, playground, walking trails and a windmill reminiscent of the area’s farming history. Grab something to munch on at the local eateries nearby (there are great local and mainstream options within walking distance) and learn about the history of the park’s namesake, located at the entrance of the facility.

Relax on a bench around the park, play with the kids on the playground or take some quiet time to bird watch if you’re a true nature enthusiast. It is a beautifully designed nature-scape that is maintained but true to its Central Texas topography.

Filled with mesquite trees and lush green spaces, it’s a great way to take the edge off the week and burn some calories before feasting throughout Buda’s  Main Street.

Old Main Street Station & Little Bluebird Boutique

This unique 2-in-1 shop located in a historic 100 year-old building is not only preserving a bit of Buda’s history, but is full of one-of-a-kind items and a great pit stop while you make your way across downtown Buda. It has both new and used items that are sure to stand out. If you need a bite to eat after finding some unique things, you can head out back where you’ll stumble into Louie’s Craft BBQ. Get a bit more of the outdoors and dine on some hearty BBQ on their communal style turquoise benches spread across the quaint backyard of the shop.

Buda’s Red Door

You can’t miss this cute boutique located right on Main Street. True to its moniker, the outfitter strikes a storefront pose with a fun red door, that begs you to stop by and look for a little something for yourself.

It was founded by Nelda and Liz who have been friends for over 20 years and offers a selection of women’s clothing, handbags, fun hats and other knick-knacks. If you love to shop locally and enjoy bragging about the fun things you got during your getaway, then this place is a must.

Zoi Market

Take in more of the easy-going vibes and do something good for your mental and physical health. Focusing on holistic wellness and locally- made brands, Zoi Market has a well-curated assortment of feel-good items and light meals that will do the body and mind good. It is owned and managed by Noa and Travis Sutherland, co-founders of UtopiaFest, Zoi Clinic & Meridian (located next door and mentioned here).

Grab a snack while you browse around and take a tincture to-go. The unique storefront features products developed by Zoi Medicinals, and other local vendors such as Teal House Coffee and Bakery (my personal Austin fave).

Inspired Minds Art Center

Bring out your inner artiste and take a class at Inspired Minds Art Center. Located in the middle of Main Street, this community center adds even more color to Buda’s landscape, leaning into the town’s creative personality. They offer a variety of classes on the weekday and weekends including a Throw and Glaze Ceramics Class, Pottery Painting on the Patio and an Outdoor FAM Day! So if you’re looking to co-create a souvenir with your honey or make a vibrant memory with the whole family, I highly recommend planning ahead and RSVPing for one of their events.

Good Eats, Sweet Drinks & Tasty Treats on Main

Buda Mill & Grain Co. (Eating and Shopping District)

This area may be small but it’s loaded with modern, upscale dining, shopping and farmhouse-style swag. Formerly Buda’s first cotton gin and later a dairy feed mill, the facility got an upgrade in the early 2010s and was renovated for commercial use. With its pristine white wood panels, crisp, black accents, and beautiful low hanging oak trees, surrounding the plaza, the latest addition to Buda’s downtown feels like a luxe bonus to an already amazing townscape.

So, What Can You Expect?  

Ma’Coco

Ya’ll. This place took me away mentally. It literally gives you a beach vacation atmosphere without having to leave the city. And while there aren’t any scenic waves crashing nearby, what it does have is a sultry, tropical vibe that makes you want to put on a flowy dress and linger a little longer. If the name rings a bell, it’s because the flagship restaurant is located in Downtown Austin. Thankfully, you can get a piece of the Baja California atmosphere without hopping on I35 or a flight to our neighbors across the border. Owned by Javier Equihua, the establishment is very new to the Buda area (it opened in January 2024), taking over a former sweets shop. The space is neutral in color, but the plates and cocktails tell a completely different story. Spirited (pun intended), vivid and lively, the food and drinks truly become the stars they deserve to be on the table. Save this place for summer date nights or girls night out if you want a grown and mature environment. So good!  

Nate’s Coffee & Cocktails

Polished on the surface, Nate’s has an undercurrent of soul that runs through the foundation of the establishment. Just walk by the open-air patio and you’ll get an earful of soul, blues or old school 90s jams to set the mood for the night. And, depending on the evening, you might be able to catch a comedy show filled with diverse acts that will make you belly over in laughter.

Valentina’s Tex-Mex BBQ

This former Austin fave found its new and, if I dare say, prettier home in Downtown Buda. Valentina’s may be in a new location, but it still has that same great homegrown taste. I always thought that Valentina’s gave huge portions and most of the time I was satisfied with just one beefy taco and a cold brew. Ladies and gentleman, I am proud to announce the portions are still portioning!  Everything is made from scratch in-house, including their tortillas, and with all that outdoor space?? I cannot wait to come back for more during the summer.

The Merchantile at Mill + Grain

This cute, one stop shop is simply adorable and has a little something for everyone. Coated in large, natural light drenched windows, The Merchantile, inspired by Kate Traver’s late grandmother and late aunt, has so many eye-catching items that you will want to give to others while holding a few things for yourself. While the owner considers it a general store, they focus on cultivating a “highly-curated, always classic” selection of apparel, home décor, apothecary brands and more. Definitely a place to include in your trip if you are seeking something extra special for a good friend or sprucing up your home with something uncommon and chic.

Los Olivos

Another cool spot in this fun district! If the name sounds familiar, you may have seen some of their other outposts across Hill Country including Harlingen, Dripping Springs and Wimberly. It is small yet bright and sophisticated without feeling stuffy. And from the outside looking in, the storefront makes you curious and invites you into the experience. Their food menu is a delicate balance of tasteful Texas cuisine and Spanish- European flair and their wine list boasts vinos all around, Texas, California, Oregon, Washington, South Africa, France, Spain, Argentina and more. On the weekdays, you can stop in for lunch and dinner but if you’re blessed enough to catch them on the weekends, you’re in a for a special brunch treat (think Kaarage Croissant Bennie, Buzzed Overnight Oats and Barbacoa Donuts, yum!). Plus, all their food is served market-style, so you don’t have to book ahead to dine in. And, in true central Texas fashion, the eatery offers indoor and outdoor seating, which is great for breezy days and warmer weather. I dig the whole “world-market” vibe and look forward to taking my friends and family with me when it heats up.

Willie’s Joint Bar & Grill

As the self-proclaimed “oldest bar in Buda”, this town staple opened its doors in 2014 and hasn’t looked back. The large outdoor space is perfect for vibing on the patio with a cold drink while listening to live music. It is a spirited, down-to-earth bar that offers a good selection of eats plus boasts three different food trucks on property to satisfy that taste for something fresh out the kitchen. It even has a small store, Grace Monroe Boutique on the premises. If you have children along for the weekend, the playground is open and available all day (but they have to be heading to bed by 10pm). The setting is super chill and it’s an easy place to unwind at the start of the evening while the sun begins to set on the town.

Meridian

Meridian is a must visit while you are in Buda. It is a laid-back coffee house during the day, that morphs into a relaxed bar scene for special events and live shows. It is managed by Noa and Travis Sutherland, the co-founders of this festival and its extension storefront, Zoi Market located next door to Meridian. Not only do they serve high quality coffee and tea drinks in this communal space, but they also specialize in medicinal mocktails and wellness shots carefully crafted with Zoi Medicinals special formula that you can enjoy inside or on their spacious outdoor patio.

Taste on Main

Have you ever walked by a restaurant and thought, “that looks like a whole vibe.” That is this restaurant. Ya’ll, I’m a sucker for outdoor seating (if you can’t tell) and I love the set-up of this place. This restaurant serves surf and turf with a side of grown people ambience. It offers plenty of indoor seating but I truly think you’re missing out if you don’t take advantage of the outside seating (unless it’s cold of course 😊 ). They serve lunch and dinner daily, plus they have a bomb happy hour from 4pm – 6pm each day ( can you say $15 meals and $6 steak sliders? ) AND for my non-drinkers they have some great mocktail options if you’re not feeling soda or tea. If you are out with your girls or want to spruce it up with your boo, this is somewhere I would recommend, for sure.

Brooklyn’s Down South

Named after the owner, who is a Utah native, the restaurant has a can’t miss exterior that awakens your curiosity to explore what they are serving. The cuisine is a rather eclectic mix of American favorites, Cajun/Southern influences, and traditional Mexican dishes. Their drink menu looks pretty interesting as well, spotlighting a cocktail of the month. Certainly, not your typical restaurant! There is no outdoor seating space, but the cozy interior makes up for it on a cooler day. Plus, they offer a happy hour menu Tuesday – Friday and a weekend brunch menu.

Esther’s Tex-Mex

This place makes you smile before you even enter the door. Decorated with eye-catching light blue fencing, pretty pink painted flowers and yellow and orange accents, Esther’s Tex-Mex brightens your day as you walk towards the front door. The long-time restaurant has been serving the community for over 10 years, plating up bits of joy and happiness one dish at a time. Humble yet vibrant, Esther’s draws you in with its fun and festive curb appeal but keeps you there with the tasty dishes! Kick back and relax at their cute outdoor tables or get a social-worthy selfie against the pink wall. I recommend stopping by a little earlier for a late lunch, early dinner or brunch because it’s not open super late, so I would recommend it for a late lunch, brunch on the weekends.

Do you have any Buda-ful favorites? Let us know in the comments.

Rashida