Luckenbach (population 25) is perhaps best known as the subject of a classic 1977 Waylon Jennings tune called “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love).” The song painted a mythical picture of a simple place to unwind “with Waylon and Willie and the boys.” Decades later, people are still making a pilgrimage to this tiny Hill Country town, located on Ranch Road 1376, 52 miles northwest of San Antonio and 75 miles west of Austin.

The thriving “downtown” contains three buildings—a blacksmith shop, rustic tavern/general store, and a historic dance hall. During the summer months, you’ll find Texas troubadours gathered ‘round beneath the outstretched arms of the enormous oak trees picking tunes on their banjos and guitars. Shows are held several times a month, with themes such as Wacky Waylon Wednesday and the Thursday Songwriters’ Circle. Tickets for these shows run anywhere between $15 and $25. For more information visit www.luckenbachtexas.com or call 830/997-3224.

Getting There

Finding the town can be a challenge, since people often steal the Luckenbach signs pointing the way. From Fredericksburg, head east on Highway 290 for about six miles to FM 1376, then head south for another four miles or so to Luckenbach. Take the second left (Luckenbach Road).