The residents of Georgetown have done an excellent job in preserving the historical downtown area, with more than 180 National Register Historic homes and buildings preserved as they were in the 1800’s!
The beautiful town of Georgetown is also known for its preserved giant oak trees, which are some of the largest and oldest in Texas. They provide shade for the great variety of water activities and other outdoor activities during the summer months.
The San Gabriel River Trail is one of the best places for hiking, cycling, or just walking to take in the beauty of the area. Lake Georgetown is a swimming and boating spot with campsites, hunting, fishing, and much more for the nature lover. It is a favorite recreation stop for people from all over the United States.
The Inner Space Caverns just south of Georgetown are one of the most spectacular underground formations in the world. Any nature enthusiast would not miss a chance to explore these natural wonders.
LOCATION
Georgetown is the northern most “gateway” to the gently rolling hills of Central Texas. Austin is 26 miles south. Dallas is two hours north. Houston is two hours southeast and San Antonio is one-and-a-half hours south.
TRANSPORTATION
When you first arrive in Georgetown Square, you are struck by the historic feeling of the town. Access to Georgetown via the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and the north/south highway artery of Interstate 35 and east/west highway artery of Highway 29 make traveling to and from Georgetown easy and fast.
BRIEF HISTORY
The Williamson County Courthouse and other historic buildings tell a story all their own about cattle drives, Native Americans, and settlers from all over the globe who brought with them the skills for industrial growth and development.
The Development of Georgetown and Williamson County all started in 1845 when Texas became a state. Austin, the new capitol, was still a sparsely settled region. So to journey 40 miles for a marriage license, to pay taxes, or to attend court was a long way to travel.
In February of 1848, about 100 settlers along the San Gabriel River asked the legislature for their own Central Texas County. The County that was created on March 13, 1848 was 1,197 square miles of land. It was named after Major Robert McAlpin Williamson, a prominent citizen of the area, better known as “three legged Willie.”
George Washington Glasscock, a large landowner, was persuaded to donate 173 acres to be the new county seat. Georgetown was then named after him.