With only a population of 2611 in 2020, you might think there is very little to see in Hico, Texas. But sitting at the crossroads of three highways – 6, 281, and 220 – a lot of traffic passes through. The community is happy to have folks stopping in, checking out the historical info, and grabbing a bite to eat or even just a fun snack. There are tons of little details all over town. Watch for numbers in the street, old hitching posts, and other details on the ground at the entrances of stores. It’s almost a scavenger hunt to find all the things hidden in plain sight.
STOPS
Hico Sign (in the middle of downtown on Pecan St)
We consider this a must-do, first thing. We took our picture there on our first visit, and we take every guest there to take their picture. Why? Just because it’s cute and fun. And it’s free.
Billy the Kid Museum (114 Pecan St. Hico TX 76457)
Rumor has it Billy the Kid was NOT killed by Pat Garrett but instead moved to Hico and started living under the assumed name of “Brushy Bill.” Supposedly he admitted before he died that he was Billy the Kid. This little store/museum is also free, but a donation is suggested for entering the tiny museum. Take a look at the various artifacts and photos and see if you think Brushy Bill could have been Billy. Admission is by donation.
Peppermint Square (120 West First St., Hico TX 76457)
A little spot in town with a historic log cabin built in 1850. The outdoor space is also used for concerts and other events.
Murals
It’s just fun to walk around and look down alleys and roadsides and see the old murals and signs painted on the outside stone walls of the buildings.
SNACKS
Koffee Kup Family Restaurant (300 2nd St. Hico TX 76457)
People kept telling us to try the pies at the Koffee Kup. So we did. Yep – they were good.
Wiseman House Chocolates (406 E Grubb St Hico TX 76457)
These chocolates are made in town, but the factory isn’t open to the public. However, you can sample and buy them in a beautiful Victorian house right on the main road at the intersection of Highway 6 and 281.
Hico Popcorn Works (117 S Pecan St. Hico TX 76547
Are you a popcorn nut? If so, you’ll go nuts (see what we did there?) for all the different flavors of popcorn in this shop! Try them all! Quite a few other snacks such as fudge, pecan brittle, and pretzels are also available.
There are many more things to see and places to eat in this little town! This is just a small “taste” to check out if you’re just passing through.
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