Texas Cities

Region: Hill Country

Founded in 1887 by General Adam R. Johnson, the city was named for Colorado River waterfalls over marble outcroppings that were visible before the dam was built to form Lake Marble Falls. The city gained fame for providing Texas pink granite from nearby Granite Mountain used to construct the Texas State Capitol in Austin. Stone was donated by citizens in exchange for a rail connection with Austin, so the Austin and Northwest Railroad built an extension from Marble Falls to Granite Mountain in 1889. The old depot is now the Visitor Bureau in the center of town, and granite continues to be quarried and shipped all over the world.

Birding opportunities are endless, from hummingbirds and warblers in spring and summer to American Bald Eagles in winter. Hunting, fishing and camping activities are also popular. Native game fish abound in lakes and streams. Fall and winter hunting seasons offer plentiful white-tailed deer, wild turkey and excellent wing shooting of migratory and native game birds.

City also features golf, spas, world-class dining, art galleries, shopping. Horseback riding opportunities also available.