Central Texas

Just north of San Antonio begins Central Texas, an area tucked between the Hill Country to the west and the coastal plains to the east.

The heart of Central Texas is Austin, the capital city. This quickly expanding city is not only the seat of state government but a capital in the world of high-tech industry and education, home of the University of Texas with over 50,000 students.

South of Austin you'll find busy I-35 leading to San Antonio, traveling through several communities that are tops with travelers. Like the city's northern reaches, the south and southwest side of Austin is also home to many bedroom communities including Bee Cave, Dripping Springs, Spicewood, and Buda. Further south, San Marcos is a favorite with shoppers from across the state (and Mexico) because of its truly Texas-sized outlet malls. New Braunfels also offers outlet shopping as well as natural attractions including one of the state's best caverns.

East of I-35 lie many historic communities such as Seguin (also home to the world's largest pecan, not to be missed), Smithville, and Luling, well known among barbecue buffs.

North of Austin you'll find the community of Round Rock, a former stagecoach stop named for the round rock in Brushy Creek. Further north, the city of Georgetown is home to the state's oldest university.

I-35 continues to wind its way north, traveling through the quaint shopping village of Salado, the cities of Belton and Temple and finally Waco, home to Baylor University and several excellent museums.