Smithville, TX

Tucked along the Colorado River about 40 miles southeast of Austin, Smithville offers a relaxed, small-town lifestyle just down the road from Bastrop. Home to roughly 4,000 residents, the town is known for its quiet, tree-shaded streets, preserved historic homes, and welcoming atmosphere. Its roots as a bustling railroad stop still show in the classic downtown architecture, creating a picturesque setting that has even served as a backdrop for Hollywood films.

ATTRLarry D. Moore / CC BY 4.0

Main Street serves as the local hub, lined with friendly shops, neighborhood cafes, and rotating outdoor art displays. For recreation, residents head down to Riverbend Park for walking trails and easy river access for kayaking and fishing. Families are served by the close-knit Smithville Independent School District, and while big-city conveniences are within commuting distance, the town retains an independent, community-centered spirit that makes it easy to settle into.