Round Rock Donuts
The Spot
Since 1926, Round Rock Donuts has been a local institution. Their yeast-risen donuts are distinctively yellow (thanks to fresh eggs) and melt-in-your-mouth soft.
The Experience
You haven't truly visited Round Rock until you've ordered a "Texas-Sized Donut"—a glazed behemoth that is bigger than your head and weighs two pounds. The drive-thru line often wraps around the block, but it moves fast. Grab a dozen glazed and some kolaches for the full experience.
Why It's #1
It is world-famous for a reason. It’s delicious, affordable, and iconic.
Dell Diamond
The Spot
Dell Diamond is the home stadium of the Round Rock Express, the Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. It is consistently ranked as one of the best minor league ballparks in America.
The Experience
A game here is about more than just baseball. It’s a family outing. There’s a swimming pool in right field, a massive kids' fun zone, and fireworks after Friday night games. The "Home Run Porch" offers rocking chairs with a perfect view of the field.
Why It's #2
It captures the pure joy of summer in Texas—hot dogs, cold beer, and America's pastime in a beautiful setting.
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions
The Spot
Kalahari is a massive African-themed resort that houses America's largest indoor waterpark. It’s a destination in itself, with a convention center, multiple restaurants, and an indoor adventure park.
The Experience
With 223,000 square feet of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, you can splash around all year long, regardless of the weather. The "Tom Foolerys" adventure park features an indoor roller coaster, ropes course, and arcade games. It’s sensory overload in the best way possible.
Why It's #3
It brings a world-class vacation experience right to Central Texas.
Old Settlers Park
The Spot
Spanning 645 acres, Old Settlers Park is the recreational heart of the city. It hosts major youth sports tournaments, festivals, and community events.
The Experience
Beyond the baseball and soccer fields, there are miles of paved trails, a disc golf course, and a lake stocked for fishing. It’s the venue for the city's Fourth of July "Frontier Days" celebration and the "Light Up the Lake" holiday festival.
Why It's #4
It’s the community's backyard—a massive, versatile green space for sports and relaxation.
Downtown Round Rock
The Spot
The historic downtown district has been revitalized into a vibrant hub of dining and entertainment. The architecture preserves the 19th-century charm while housing modern businesses.
The Experience
Stroll down Main Street and grab a burger at Liberty Barbecue or a craft cocktail at The Ruby Hotel. At night, the area comes alive with live music venues and rooftop bars like Urban Rooftop. It’s walkable, safe, and full of character.
Why It's #5
It offers a perfect blend of small-town history and big-city energy.
Play for All Abilities Park
The Spot
This award-winning park was designed specifically to provide a safe and fun environment for children of all abilities.
The Experience
The park features sensory pods, a wheelchair-accessible sandbox, and a "Round Rock Village" with miniature buildings and streets where kids can ride bikes and learn traffic safety. It’s a heartwarming place where every child can play without barriers.
Why It's #6
It represents the best of the community's spirit—inclusive, thoughtful, and fun.
Round Rock Premium Outlets
The Spot
Located just off I-35, this open-air mall features over 125 designer and name-brand outlet stores.
The Experience
It’s a shopper’s paradise. You can find deals at Nike, Michael Kors, Coach, and Polo Ralph Lauren. The outdoor setting is pleasant (especially in the cooler months), and there are plenty of dining options nearby. It attracts visitors from all over the state.
Why It's #7
It’s the premier shopping destination in the area for scoring high-end brands at a discount.
Bat Watching at McNeil Bridge
The Spot
While Austin's Congress Avenue Bridge gets all the fame, Round Rock has its own massive bat colony under the I-35 overpass at McNeil Road.
The Experience
From March to November, nearly half a million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge at dusk to feed. You can park in the nearby NAPA Auto Parts lot for a front-row seat. It’s a mesmerizing natural phenomenon without the massive crowds of downtown Austin.
Why It's #8
It’s a hidden gem for nature lovers and a unique Texas experience.
Sam Bass' Grave
The Spot
Located in the Round Rock Cemetery on Sam Bass Road, this is the final resting place of the notorious outlaw Sam Bass.
The Experience
Sam Bass was killed in a shootout with Texas Rangers in downtown Round Rock in 1878. His grave is a pilgrimage site for history buffs. The "Sam Bass Shootout" is re-enacted annually during the Frontier Days festival. Visiting the grave connects you directly to the city's Wild West past.
Why It's #9
It’s a tangible piece of Texas legend and lore.
Round Rock Honey
The Spot
Round Rock Honey is a local company that produces high-quality, wildflower honey found in grocery stores across Texas.
The Experience
They offer beekeeping classes and tours where you can put on a suit and get up close with the hives. You learn about the importance of pollinators and the process of making honey. It’s an educational and sweet adventure.
Why It's #10
It offers a unique, hands-on way to connect with local agriculture and nature.