Plan at least half a day to enjoy the old-fashioned Main Street, Old Town and more than 130 distinguished homes and buildings. The city was incorporated under the laws of Texas on December 18, 1837, and highlights include the 1883 Courthouse and the 1853 residence that now houses the Bastrop County Historical Society Museum. Along Chestnut Street’s sidewalks, a new series of bronze medallions chronicle Bastrop’s past — so history buffs can literally take a walk through time.
Bastrop also boasts plenty of modern-day spirit, with more than 73,000 people now calling the area home. Many movies have been shot in or around Bastrop, including 2008’s “Fireflies in the Garden” and “Predators” from 2010. The Old Iron Bridge, built in 1923, has been converted to a scenic walkway/bike trail. It’s the perfect place for a stroll, as well as the local tradition of spittin’ off the bridge, inspired by Opie Taylor of Mayberry. There’s a thriving local arts scene, anchored by the Deep in the Heart Art Foundry, 1889 Bastrop Opera House, and the new Jerry Fay Wilhelm Center for the Performing Arts. Chestnut Square Family Entertainment Center offers first-run movies, bowling, a sports bar and more. And two sparkling city parks — Fisherman’s Park and Ferry Park — are connected by the Colorado Riverwalk, making for a nice family-friendly way to spend an afternoon.