Cedar Park is one of the bustling suburbs of Austin, Texas. It lies mostly in Williamson County, with a small portion extending into Travis County. This rapidly growing city is known as the home of two major sports teams—the Texas Stars of the American Hockey League (AHL) and the Austin Spurs of the NBA G League. Both teams play their home games at the H-E-B Center, a hub for entertainment and sports events in the area.
In this article, we’ll learn more about Cedar Park, its history, and the top places to visit while you’re there.
The History of Cedar Park
Cedar Park has a deep history that stretches back thousands of years. Long before European settlers arrived, this land was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Lipan Apache, Tonkawa, and Comanche. Evidence of these ancient cultures was discovered in 1983 when archaeologists found a paleo-American site showing that the area had been continuously inhabited since 5000 BC.
In the mid-19th century, what we now know as Cedar Park was originally called Running Brushy. The name came from Running Brushy Creek, a spring located at the headwaters of a creek that still bears the same name today. In 1873, Harriet and George Cluck bought 329 acres of land, including this spring, after years of driving cattle up the Chisholm Trail. They established a ranch that became the heart of the community that would eventually become Cedar Park.
In 1882, the Austin and Northwestern Railroad was completed, linking Austin with the towns of Burnet and Lampasas. The railroad passed directly through the Cluck ranch, and the settlement was renamed Bruggerhoff, after a railroad official. However, the name didn’t stick—locals found it hard to spell and pronounce. So, in 1887, Emmett Cluck, the son of Harriet and George, renamed the town Cedar Park. Just a few years later, in 1892, a beautiful park near the train depot helped solidify the town’s identity.
By the 1950s and 1960s, Cedar Park began to experience significant growth, thanks to new housing developments. These changes set the stage for Cedar Park’s rapid expansion, attracting major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco.
The H-E-B Center: A Hub for Sports and Entertainment
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The H-E-B Center at Cedar Park opened its doors in 2009 and quickly became a key venue for sports and entertainment in the area. The first event hosted here was a concert by country legend George Strait. Since then, the center has continued to host a variety of concerts, shows, and sports events.
Most notably, the H-E-B Center is home to two major sports teams. The Texas Stars, the AHL affiliate of the Dallas Stars (NHL), call the H-E-B Center their home. The Austin Spurs, the NBA G League affiliate of the San Antonio Spurs, also play their home games here. This state-of-the-art arena offers seating for over 8,000 people and provides an exciting atmosphere for fans of both sports and entertainment.
Top Places to Visit in Cedar Park
Beyond the sports scene, Cedar Park offers a variety of fun and interesting places to visit. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, arts and culture, or history, there’s something for everyone.
Thirsty Oaks Wine Trail
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If you enjoy wine tasting, Cedar Park is the perfect place to explore the Thirsty Oaks Wine Trail. This trail offers access to some of the best wineries and vineyards in the Texas Hill Country. You can spend a relaxing day touring beautiful vineyards, sampling exquisite wines, and soaking in the scenic views of the rolling hills. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy the flavors of Central Texas.
Ride the Austin Steam Train
For a unique way to explore the Hill Country, hop aboard the Austin Steam Train. This historic train ride offers a nostalgic journey through the countryside, complete with themed rides like the Thomas the Tank Engine special and thrilling murder mystery trains. It’s a family-friendly activity that offers a fun way to experience the beauty of the region. Be sure to book in advance as seats fill up quickly!
Zip Line Across Lake Travis
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For the thrill-seekers, Lake Travis Zipline Adventures offers an unforgettable experience. With five zip lines ranging from 250 to 2,000 feet long, you’ll soar above the beautiful Lake Travis and take in breathtaking views. The adventure also includes guided nature hikes and some exhilarating moments as you launch yourself off a 20-story cliff. This is an outdoor adventure you won’t want to miss.
Texas Museum of Science and Technology (TXMOST)
Cedar Park is also home to the Texas Museum of Science and Technology, known as TXMOST. Established in 2015, this museum focuses on promoting interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). TXMOST is also the home of Central Texas’ first planetarium, making it a great place for an educational and fun day out. The museum offers rotating exhibits, so there’s always something new to explore.
Cedar Park Sculpture Garden
Art lovers should visit the Cedar Park Sculpture Garden, located next to the Cedar Park Recreation Center. This outdoor exhibit showcases a rotating collection of sculptures from various artists. Most of the pieces are available for purchase, and the garden provides a tranquil spot to appreciate art while enjoying the outdoors.
Veterans Memorial
A visit to Cedar Park wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the Veterans Memorial. This beautiful memorial pays tribute to the men and women who have served in the armed forces. The memorial includes custom-engraved bricks and bronze leaves, each dedicated to individual soldiers. These line the pathway leading to Memorial Hill, creating a poignant and meaningful tribute. It’s a serene and respectful spot for reflection and learning about the sacrifices made by veterans.
Dining and Entertainment
Cedar Park offers plenty of dining options to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite or fine dining, there are numerous restaurants to choose from. After exploring the attractions, you can enjoy a meal at one of the many local eateries or relax with a drink at a nearby brewery or wine bar.
Some of the popular spots to check out include:
- Blue Corn Harvest Bar & Grill: This local favorite serves up delicious Southwestern cuisine, including tacos, enchiladas, and fresh salads.
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- Mouton’s Southern Bistro: A cozy spot that offers classic Southern comfort food with a twist. From fried chicken to shrimp and grits, the dishes here are packed with flavor.
- Red Horn Coffee House & Brewing Co.: A fantastic place for craft beer lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a fresh brew or a refreshing beer, this spot offers a laid-back atmosphere with great drinks.
Conclusion
Cedar Park is more than just a suburb of Austin. It’s a vibrant community with a rich history, exciting sports teams, and plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. Whether you’re cheering on the Texas Stars or Austin Spurs at the H-E-B Center, sipping wine along the Thirsty Oaks Wine Trail, or zipping over Lake Travis, there’s no shortage of things to do in Cedar Park.
Next time you’re in the Austin area, make sure to spend some time in Cedar Park to experience its unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities.
