Region: Hill Country
Founded in 1855, on the clear, spring-fed Llano River, the town of Llano became the county seat in 1856. Well established by 1860 with stores, saloons and a hotel, there was no church in the rough frontier village. Llano courthouse dates from 1892 and has just completed a complete restoration to return the grand structure to its original look.
Presently, Llano is known as the "Deer Capital of Texas" and hosts many hunters seeking abundance of white-tailed deer during Fall-Winter season. Year-round fishing, in picturesque Llano River and surrounding Highland Lakes area, makes Llano a sportsman's dream destination. Rock hounds from around the globe descend on Llano throughout the year to hunt for the elusive "Lanite" or pan for gold in the Llano River. Llano was chosen to host the Texas Gold Panning Championships held each year in September.
Llano has kept much of its frontier charm and attitude and now brands itself as "The Way Texas Used To Be." It is also home to many world champion team ropers and rodeo participants.
The entire downtown square has been designated a National Historic District and a comprehensive historical walking tour is a must for the short- or long-term visitor.
Camping and picnicking available at all city and county parks, with some including RV hookups, lake and pool swimming, fishing, boat ramp, hiking trails and scenic views. Black Rock and Shaw Island parks on Lake Buchanan; Robinson City Park on Llano River; Llano County Community Center (park) on west edge of town.
Historic Lantex Theater, established in 1927, is one of the few historic theaters still showing first-run movies on a single screen. Also home to the Llano Country Opry.