Stagecoach Inn
Salado, Texas
Stagecoach Inn
416 South Main Street, Salado, Texas 76571 Original Property Opened in 1860 Historic Hotels of America member since 2018
Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Stagecoach Inn first opened in 1860 as a rest stop along the famous Chisholm Trail. Many famous 19th-century historic persons passed through the building at various points, such as Sam Houston, George Custer, and Jesse James. This quaint haven finally became a hotel in 1943, when Dion and Ruth Van Bibber transformed the entire structure into Stagecoach Inn. Over the following decades, the inn developed a vaunted reputation for its charming rustic hospitality. In particular, the hotel gained significant acclaim for its roadside restaurant, which still enchants guests today.
Discover
- Walk through history inside Stagecoach Inn's restaurant. Built in 1860, the hotel is thought to be the most historic surviving structure in Salado, Texas. The original simple, two-story wood-frame building was designed in a frontier vernacular style.
- Discover the nooks and crannies of each room that the restaurant offers to guests. It has several outstanding places within which to dine, including space next to a historic tree. The tree has inhabited the grounds for at least four centuries.
- Look up at the top balcony, where it’s alleged first Texas President Sam Houston gave a fiery anti-secession speech.
Explore
- Explore Main Street, just a few blocks away, with ample boutiques for shopping. With over 60 stores, there is something for everyone, from wellness shops to jewelry to photography to cars.
- Visit the historic Pace Park alongside Salado Creek that offers a charming pavilion with scenic views, a playscape area, picnic tables, and historic landmarks. Enjoy strolling in the shade or wading and tubing in the creek for a full nature-filled experience.
- Drive less than 20 minutes to the Gault Archaeological Site for a glimpse at America’s history from thousands of years ago (must be booked in advance). See the tools and artifacts that help shape the view of how the earliest populations lived.
Experience
- Create art at Salado Glassworks through their family-friendly glass blowing events. Grab a fireside seat and witness how they make their various signature vessels, lighting, and sculpture creations.
- Experience the Royal Art Walk and Sip ‘n’ Shop on the Fourth Friday of every month. Check out the stores after hours, with additional art and entertainment options.
- Enjoy a good time at Johnny’s Steak & Bar-Be-Que, a legendary live music venue. Take in the southern hospitality and amazing barbeque over a mesquite wood fire before experiencing various country acts.
Taste
- The iconic Stagecoach Restaurant at Stagecoach Inn is currently undergoing renovations with plans to reopen in late 2024 under the direction of the well-respected Monument Group responsible for nearby Georgetown's Monument Cafe and El Monumento. The new menu aims to bring back to legendary hushpuppies, honor past menu items, while also looking to another 100+ years of Stagecoach significance.
- Sip tasty beers at the lively hotspot Barrow Brewing Company, located next to Salado Creek. Enjoy locally sourced craft beers, both seasonal and year-round, in this old pole barn granary turned brewery.
- Sample one of the luscious pasta dishes at The Barton House, a residence originally built in 1866 and listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1983. It opened as a restaurant in 1997, after numerous renovations seamlessly blended the old and new elements of the house, delighting history buffs while offering a varied menu.
Featured Offers
Book the Best Available Rate at this property on HistoricHotels.org and receive a complimentary one-year family membership (a $30 value) to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Up to 30% savings to honor the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Preservation Month.
