Taylor, Texas Travel Guide

Taylor calls itself "The Barbecue Capital of the World." With its central location and its position as home of two heavy-hitting names in the barbecue world, Taylor would have to be considered the rodeo-sized belt buckle in the Texas barbecue belt. To reach the pinnacle of pits, head north from Austin on I-35 to Round Rock. Turn east on US 79 and then continue for 17 miles. Taylor is surrounded by acres of cotton fields and blackland farms that stretch on for miles.

Taylor's claim to fame is its International Barbecue Cook-off in August (photo album, video) and its controversial National Rattlesnake Sacking Championship and Roundup held every March.

Taylor was the hometown of former Texas governor Dan Moody whose home now serves as a museum. Taylor was also home to Bill Pickett, an African-American cowboy born in the area in 1860. Pickett originated the practice of "bulldogging" — throwing a bull by twisting his head until he falls. The well-known cowboy also had a habit of biting the steer's upper lip, a trick called "biting the bull" that he practiced on the rodeo circuit.

Attractions

Moody Museum. Governor Dan Moody was born in this 1887 home, located in the downtown area. Today this home is filled with his furniture and personal belongings. Moody went to law school at the University of Texas, served in World War I, then returned to become governor at the age of 33. The hometown hero was best known for prosecuting members of the Ku Klux Klan in Williamson County. Open Sunday afternoon. Location: 114 W. Ninth St.

Hotels

Hotels and Motels in Taylor Find special rates on hotels in Taylor through our booking partner, IHSAdvantage. We selected this booking company because we found they offer the largest number and variety of Texas properties.

Map

Map to Taylor This searchable map will allow you to type in your address and obtain driving instructions to Taylor.

Taylor Restaurants

Rudy Mikeska's Bar-B-Q

Louie Mueller's

Taylor Cafe

Photo Gallery, Video

30th Annual Taylor International Barbecue Cook-Off Photo Gallery

Video: Taylor International Barbecue Cook-Off

In-Depth Travel Articles:

Taylor International Barbecue Cookoff

For More Information: visit the Taylor Chamber of Commerce