Round Rock, Texas – Everything You Need to Know

Just a few miles north of Austin, Round Rock reputation as a business and family-friendly hub is well earned. With a booming economy, a wealth of recreational activities and historic attractions, and safe neighborhoods, this Texas city has something for everyone.

The city’s name doesn’t refer to the third rock in our solar system—it was derived from the name of a large, round limestone rock that sits in Brushy Creek and marks a low-water crossing point on the Chisholm Trail. That rock helped cattle drivers find the right direction as they drove their herds toward Kansas. Today, a commemorative park marks this important site in the city’s history.

Round Rock has a plethora of outdoor activity sites, including Old Settlers Park, which boasts baseball fields and playgrounds as well as a disc golf course and fishing lake. It also has a splashy water park called Rock’N River, where kids can fly down slides and explore a sprayground that features hose jets and other fun additions.

If you’re looking for an indoor adventure, the wilderness-themed Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World is a must-see attraction. This massive store is packed with athletic and outdoor gear and provides the opportunity to test out your skills on everything from an archery range to a bowling alley.

The venerable downtown Round Rock is a shopping and dining delight that retains a charming old-Texan feel. Stroll past old-fashioned stone storefronts that house a variety of art galleries, coffee shops and boutiques. After a day of shopping, cool down with a drink in one of the many lounges, saloons or sports bars that line Main Street.

With more than 120 stores at the Round Rock Premium Outlets, an IKEA, and a 430,000-square-foot outdoor mall at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, Round Rock is a shopper’s paradise. You can also hunt for bargains on high-end accessories, clothing and home goods at the numerous locally-owned stores in the city’s downtown area.

Unlike other fast-growing cities, Round Rock maintains its quality of life while becoming one of the state’s best-managed municipalities. This is largely due to its focus on long-range strategic planning and the use of focused budgeting. The city is a leader in innovation and technology, and its thriving parks, community events, educational opportunities and safe neighborhoods are the foundation of its success. In addition, the city offers competitive salaries and benefits for employees. Major employers include Dell, St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center, Baylor Scott & White Healthcare, and Emerson Process Management. The city also operates the Round Rock Independent School District, and its property tax and utility rates are among the lowest in the region. In addition, its schools have won numerous awards.