This small town on I-35 north of Georgetown was once a stop on the Chisholm Trail stagecoach line which ran from San Antonio up to Arkansas. Many of the historic buildings in Salado are now occupied by trendy shops selling antiques, fashions, and art works. The Stagecoach Inn (pictured above) which serviced travelers on the Chisholm Trail is a full-service hotel and restaurant on Main Street. The Inn, along with several other buildings in town are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Numberous bed and breakfast properties make Salado a popular place for a weekend getaway.
Downtown Salado Creek’s Pace Park provides a nice respite from a day of shopping with shady picnic areas and cool waters that fill with summertime swimmers.
Table of Contents
Salado Barbecue
Robertson’s Hams & The Choppin’ Block
While you’re in Salado, stop by this deli and gift shop. Not a true barbecue joint, nonetheless you’ll find plenty of smoked meats here in the form of hams (smoked over hickory) and jerky.
The store is located just a sausage link’s throw from busy I-35. The shop is filled with kitchen implements, cookbooks, and jars of Robertson’s Barbecue Sauce, a dark concoction whose ingredients include molasses.
While you’re here, order a smoked ham sandwich or get some to take home. Step up to the meat market counter and order, then head over to the butcher block to fill your sandwich with condiments. If you get home and wish you’d have picked up more of Robertson’s smoky product, there’s a mail order business as well.
Attractions
Central Texas Area Museum. This museum, which is located across Main Street from the Stagecoach Inn, traces the history of Salado area and the rich agricultural area near the Brazos River. The museum also features an extensive collection of Scottish geneological records and sponsors the annual Gathering of the Clans of Texas celebration. 423 South Main St.
Pace Park. Near the I-35 bridge over Salado Creek, this shady park is a popular place for picnicking or to wade in the cool, clear waters of the creek. The centerpiece of the park is the bronze statue of Sirena, a Native American girl who, according to legend, was transformed into a mermaid. Now, Sirena watches over the stream from her creekside location. Pace Park Dr., downtown, off Main St.
Festivals
AUGUST:
Salado Art Fair. The Venue at the Inn on the Creek hosts this annual art show which features the work of over 100 artists working in various mediums from painting to glass blowing. 212 Royal St.
NOVEMBER:
Gathering of the Scottish Clans. Look for Scottish highland games, music, genealogy displays, and exhibits at this traditional festival held in Pace Park. Don’t forget to bring your camera to this colorful and fun event even if you don’t have a drop of Scottish blood in you. Pace Park Dr., off Main St. and at other locations in town.