The adventure at 7A Ranch is well-rounded, fun for the whole family.

Looking to make a quick getaway? Then gather up the kids for a short road trip (less than an hour) that’ll drop you back in time. Kinda. 

Approximately 50 minutes southwest of Austin, you’ll find the kitschy and kid-approved Pioneer Town. Located on the grounds of 7A Ranch in the quaint town of Wimberley, entering Pioneer Town will make you feel like Marty McFly traveling back to the wild wild west. 

The area, done up in 1880s garb, features a functioning arcade and ice cream parlor, as well as an opera house, the pioneer chapel, and a bottle house – yes, the house is actually made entirely of glass bottles.

Kids and adults alike will get a kick out of the old-timey town, which provides loads of photo ops and fun sights to explore. According to 7A’s office clerk Maengel Gonce, Mrs. Glover’s Cowboy Museum opens shop on weekends for would-be pioneers to explore the space’s vintage antiques too.

For those looking to make a weekend out of it, 7A Ranch is not just home to Pioneer Town, but a lovely resort sitting on the banks of the Blanco River. Located on 14 acres in the middle of Texas Hill Country, 7A offers prime river access for swimming and fishing, as well as a new pool, and numerous trails for exploring. 

To keep with the wild west theme, consider booking a room in the Pioneer Town Inn (rooms include two queen beds, cable TV, a small refrigerator, microwave, and a coffee pot). Otherwise, with even better social distancing safety, 7A offers roughly a dozen cabins, sleeping from four to twelve, that each achieve various levels of glamping depending on your family’s desires. There is also a newly renovated cottage called The Hideaway. 

Some are fully equipped with air conditioning and full kitchens, some feature open porches for more camping vibes, all are absolutely charming. It’s also a popular spot for large family gatherings and celebrations. Cabin rates vary by time of year and size. See the website for the most up-to-date rates. 

7A generally offers day passes to their section of the river for swimming, fishing, and enjoying year-round. (It’s normally between $5-10 per person depending on the time of year and free for children under 5.) Pioneer Town is free and open to the public to explore and we highly recommend dressing the part! For indoor activities, among others, there is an arcade and ice cream parlor. 

Come prepared for swimming, fishing, kayaking – whatever floats your boat – on the Blanco River.

Pro tip: if you’re not staying at 7A, pack a picnic because your next stop should be Blue Hole - a divine swimming hole!

When you are headed back to Austin, stop for some barbecue at The Salt Lick, or load up on goodies at Vista Brewing.