Worth the Drive
Old West Meets Small-Town Texas in Hico
Wild West legends, pecan tree-lined riverbanks, and small-town hospitality all come together in Hico, a charming historic Texas town about 2 hours north of Jarrell. Here, visitors can spend the day in a museum tracing the story of an infamous outlaw, browsing Western goods and antiques, and indulging in artisan chocolates and farm-to-table meals as they enjoy all the storied Texan charm that make Hico (pronounced high-koh) special.
A Walk Through the Past
Founded in 1883 along the Texas Central Railroad, Hico grew from a community rooted in cotton and cattle into a bustling commercial center. Today, traces of that history remain along Pecan Street with Victorian-era buildings, limestone and brick facades, and colorful vintage advertising murals. History buffs can follow one of Hico's most intriguing legends to the Billy the Kid Museum, where exhibits explore the controversial story that notorious outlaw Billy the Kid may not have been shot and killed by Pat Garrett in New Mexico in 1881 but lived in Hico under the name Brushy Bill. A statue of Billy the Kid stands downtown as another nod to the town's Wild West lore.
For a deeper look into Hico's past, the Hico Retrospective Museum—located upstairs in Blue Star Trading—showcases historic photographs, artifacts, and other pieces of the community's story. Even simply wandering downtown offers a glimpse into Hico's past, with historic buildings now housing a lively collection of modern businesses.
Tastes of the Town
One of the best ways to experience Hico is to browse the town's shops, which offer everything from antiques and home décor to Western apparel, handmade goods, art, and gifts. The Hico Mercantile, housed in a historic 1895 opera house, brings together multiple vendors under one roof, while other downtown shops offer everything from custom leather goods to locally crafted treasures.
A visit to Hico wouldn't be complete without stopping at Wiseman House Chocolates, where handmade truffles, toffees, and other chocolate creations are crafted in a beautifully restored Victorian home. For another quintessential Hico treat, Hico Popcorn Works pops its own specialty popcorn in a variety of flavors.
Travelers can also choose from classic Texas comfort food to more contemporary fare. Hico's food scene includes longtime favorites as well as chef-driven dining, farm-to-table offerings, and local Mexican cuisine. The historic Midland Hotel is home to the Chop House, while Two Clay Birds Bakery & Garden Market offers fresh produce, homemade goods, and a farm-to-table experience.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Hico City Park provides a chance to stretch your legs along the Bosque River, while the park features walking and biking trails and picnic areas. For something a little more adventurous, the Siloville Climbing Gym transforms several abandoned grain silos into an epic rock climbing gym and obstacle-course experience.
Planning Your Trip
While Hico is easy to enjoy in a single day, staying overnight gives visitors more time to discover the town at its own pace. Lodging options range from historic accommodations and bed-and-breakfasts to a vintage Airstream and RV parks near the Bosque River.
Scan the code to start mapping out your Hico adventure, or online at VisitHicoTexas.com.
