Things to Do in Sonora

Step inside a beautiful cavern, listen to stories of the Wild West, and admire the scenic Texas Hill Country. Adventures like these define Sonora, a charming small town nestled on the western edge of the Hill Country. With a picturesque historic downtown full of unique shops and restaurants and plenty to discover, a weekend getaway here is a must. Read on to see just a few of the many things to do in Sonora.

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Explore the World-Famous Caverns of Sonora

Descending into the depths of the Caverns of Sonora is like stepping into another world. Feel the warm and humid air on your skin as you wander from one room to another, taking in all the jaw-dropping formations. Choose from one of several tours, each offering their own range of experiences. The nearly two-hour Crystal Palace Tour takes you along almost two miles of stunning cave passages, while the Photography Tour gives you the chance to take photos that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.

If you’re looking for an adventure, book your spot on the Discovery Challenge Tour. Throughout this four-hour excursion, you’ll rappel 50 feet into the Devil’s Pitt and navigate undeveloped areas of the cave.

Whether you opt for this tour, or any of the others, you’ll have an unforgettable time at Caverns of Sonora.

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Hike the Eaton Hill Nature Center & Preserve

All of Sonora’s natural beauty isn’t just confined to its spectacular subterranean caves.

The town is perched on the western edge of the Texas Hill Country, where oak and mesquite trees cover rolling limestone hills. Immerse yourself in all the native splendor at the Eaton Hill Nature Center & Preserve, located minutes from downtown Sonora.

Trek the 37-acre park on its hiking trails that take you past rocky outcroppings and through dense woods. Soak it all in, then head to the more than 110-year-old historic home to check out interpretive exhibits outlining the area’s flora and fauna.

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Discover Tales of Wild West Outlaws and Lawmen

In 1901, famed Wild Bunch gang member and outlaw William “News” Carver met his untimely end after a shootout with the local sheriff and his posse. This is just one story from Sonora’s early days, when pioneers and ranchers tamed the hardscrabble land and made lives for themselves on the prairie.

See these stories at the Old Sonora Ice House Ranch Museum, which resides in a historic 1920’s ice house.

Learn more about Will Carver and the Wild Bunch gang, as well as the area’s ranching and pioneer heritage and the discovery of a deep water well drilling technique that made life in this part of the Lone Star State possible.

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Stroll Historic Downtown Sonora

Wandering along Sonora’s Historic Main Street feels like stepping back in time. Beautifully restored vintage storefronts housing local shops and restaurants lead to the town’s architectural crown jewel: the 1891 Sutton County Courthouse.

Built using local limestone and with the sloped roofs and intricate details of the French-inspired Second Empire style of architecture, the courthouse is a must see.

Make sure you also visit the 1888 Miers Home Museum (the fifth structure built in Sonora) and the 1930 John & Mildred Cauthorn Depot.

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Play a Round at Sonora Golf Club

Are you the type of traveler who always packs your golf clubs? If so, you’ll love a day out at the Sonora Golf Club.

Show off your long and short game as you play through the scenic nine-hole course. With a challenging layout complete with sand and water hazards, you’ll likely need all the clubs in your bag.

At the end of your round, recharge with some food and drinks in the clubhouse before setting out for even more adventures in Sonora.