Austinites looking for a change in scenery may flock to neighboring San Antonio for a day trip, but there’s one under-the-radar city that often gets overlooked: Seguin. Named after Tejano Texian freedom fighter and Texas Revolution military figure Juan Seguin, this charming city is one of the oldest in Texas. At first glance, Seguin may seem small, but it offers plenty to keep visitors busy during the day or even a weekend, from Michelin Bib Gourmand barbecue to shopping at local bookstores and goat cuddling classes.
Ready to plan your trip? Here’s a guide of the best things to see, do and eat in Seguin, so you can make the most out of your visit.
What to eat in Seguin
Early birds should make it a point to stop at Pecantown Books & Brews. Founded by owners Tess Coody-Anders and Heath Anders, this small bookstore serves up farm-to-table food in a warm and cozy setting. Choose from a breakfast BLTA, quiches (Sundays only) or an assortment of pastries, ranging from blueberry scones to cinnamon rolls. The coffee doesn’t miss either, with plenty of staple and seasonal drinks to entertain your palate. If you stay for lunch, try the soup of the week with a half sandwich. Their creamy loaded potato soup is a standout—trust us, it’s a match made in heaven.
If you prefer to skip breakfast and reach for a cup of Joe instead, head to Seguin Coffee Company. This local favorite offers all the classic coffee staples alongside a robust mocha menu featuring unique flavors like coconut truffle, churro, cinnamon roll and campfire.
After working up an appetite, head to Michelin Bib Gourmand-recognized Burnt Bean Co. for lunch. Pitmaster Ernest Servantes begins smoking the meats early each morning, with Dave Kirkland taking over in the afternoon to ensure everything is cooked to perfection before the restaurant’s 11am opening. Expect a line of loyal customers, but it’s worth the wait.
Choose from prime brisket, pork ribs, turkey or sausage—all sold by the half pound, as well as their homemade sides. Round out your meal with Hot Cheeto queso mac, Cowboy beans and Southern green beans. Be sure to save room for dessert; the banana pudding and peach cobbler taco are Burnt Bean Co. staples.
Where to drink in Seguin
A beloved watering hole on Austin Street, Schultz Saloon serves up craft cocktails, ice-cold beers and an impressive whiskey selection. The space’s ranch-style decor, complete with longhorns and rustic accents, sets the perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening. On the weekends, the elevated stage comes alive with performances by local artists. While you’re there, order the pecan old fashioned, a customer favorite that pairs well with live tunes.
What to do in Seguin
No trip to Seguin is complete without a visit to the World’s Largest Pecan, measuring five feet long, two and a half feet wide and weighing approximately 1,000 pounds. The brainchild of a local dentist, the World’s Largest Pecan was constructed in Downtown Seguin in front of the Guadalupe County Courthouse in 1962 as a tribute to Spanish explorer Cabeza de Vaca, who was held captive on the Guadalupe, aka the ‘River of Nuts,’ for nine years. It’s also an unspoken homage to the city’s pecan roots, which grow readily due to the region’s climate. Today, Guadalupe County is considered to be one of the largest pecan producers in Texas. Visit in the fall to experience the annual Pecan Fest, which hosts over 120 vendors selling decor, jewelry, home goods and pecan treats.
Wine enthusiasts will love Blue Lotus Winery, which offers vineyard and winery tours on its scenic 12-acre property. Thanks to its unique soil types, the winery grows a variety of grapes, including Lenoir, Lomanto, Norton, America, Champanel, Camninare and Noir. There are fun events like a cheese and wine pairing or a goat cuddling session, where you can sip wine while playing with—and yes, cuddling—adorable goats. It’s a fun and relaxing way to spend a Saturday.
Where to stay in Seguin
While you can explore most of Seguin in a day, staying overnight can offer an opportunity to experience more. Budget-conscious travelers can choose from reliable options like the Holiday Inn Express Seguin or Days Inn by Wyndham, both of which offer clean rooms and essential amenities.
For brave and adventurous travelers, consider the Magnolia Hotel Bed & Breakfast, a historic (and allegedly haunted) property. Staying at the property is like taking a walk through a history textbook. It was once an 1850s frontier hotel and stagecoach stop, and has allegedly hosted the likes of Bonnie and Clyde and President Ulysses Grant during the Reconstruction Era. It’s also rumored to be home to the ghost of a murderer named Mr. Deavors.
Guests can book a two-hour evening ghost tour led by owners Jim and Erin Ghedi, who share the property’s rich history and chilling paranormal tales. While it’s not for the faint of heart, many guests describe their stay as nothing short of amazing.
Seguin may be small, but its unique mix of history, food and activities make it a must-visit for Texans and travelers alike. Whether you’re there for a day or a weekend, you’re sure to leave with a full belly and maybe even a ghost story or two.