Attractions

Features historic homes, businesses, tea rooms, restaurants, historic inns, antique emporium, and arts and crafts shops. Tour maps available at the visitor information center. Tour begins at the 1886 Stafford Opera House. The driving tour features "talking houses"—tune a car radio to the frequency listed and enjoy a narrative of several landmarks without leaving the vehicle. Attractions include:

Alley Log Cabin — This structure was built in 1836, just after the Runaway Scrape, by one of the original "Old 300" settlers. The square-notch cabin is fully furnished and an excellent example of the Texas Colonial Period. Doors open 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Mon.–Sat. 1224 Bowie St.

Colorado County Courthouse — Set among magnolia trees in the center of town, the structure was built in 1891 in Second Empire style with locally made brick. It features a Neoclassic copper dome and a working four-face Seth Thomas clock. A magnificent stained-glass dome is above the original 1890 judge's bench, bailiff box and witness stand in the district courtroom. On Milam Street.

Dilue Rose Harris House Museum — Greek Revival-style 1860 cottage of "tabby" construction houses period furniture. Admission charge. 602 Washington. 979/732-5135.

Live Oak Art Center — In historic Brunson Building, features art studio and changing gallery exhibits of local, national and international art from several centuries, as well as works of local artists. Open 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Wed. and Sat., and 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Thu.–Fri. Group tours available by request. Donations accepted. 1014 Milam St. 979/732-8398.