Sunday, August 10, 2008

The Best Kept Secret in Texas - Smithville

Smithville, Texas is probably one of the best kept secrets of Texas. Smithville was founded in 1890. Smithville is located about 35 miles southeast of Austin, Texas and about 90 miles northwest of Houston, Texas. The community of Smithville is located on the mighty Colorado River. The Colorado River is wide enough at Smithville for boat traffic.
Smithville's current claim to fame is that the movie "Hope Floats" starring Sandra Bullock was filmed there. In January 2008, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie filmed "The Tree of Life" in Smithville. There are 2 more movies scheduled for filming in the near future.
Smithville has a 6 block by 4 block square of historical homes. Most of the homes are occupied but some are available for viewing. There are other historical buildings in town such as the Post Office, School Administration Building, and the old gazebo in the park. The small downtown area is 2 blocks by 2 blocks. Smithville's downtown is composed of antique stores, gift shops, and an old drugstore.
Smithville, Texas would be a great weekend escape. There are 2 campgrounds: Toad Hollow and the Bueschler State Park. Either campground would be fine. So, take a weekend trip to Smithville, Texas. Who knows? You might meet a movie star!

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