Quiet streets and a famous cannon define historic Gonzales
The small city of Gonzales boasts an outsized role in state history as the place where the Texas Revolution started. Officials in 1831 refused to return a cannon loaned to them by Mexico, which lead to the first shots of the historic event. This act of defiance was known as the “Come and Take It” incident, and today’s roughly 7,600 residents pay homage to their ancestors’ tenacity by way of their city flag and the meticulously curated artifacts from that time – including the cannon – displayed in their many museums. As the county seat of Gonzales County, the city is home to local government offices and the county jail. This city also boasts quiet residential streets, a historic downtown and a tight-knit Central Texas feel.
Homes range from 1920s bungalows to newer traditional builds
Homes here are a mix of bungalows, ranch-style and New Traditionals. They sit on grass lawns dotted with mature trees along quiet residential streets. While many homes have quarter-acre lots, some sit on two or more acres. Prices range from $150,000 for a small two-bedroom to $400,000 for a large three- or four-bedroom with sprawling front and back lawns. Land is also available. Most lots are a quarter-acre to an acre and are priced between $25,000 and $75,000. Multi-acre properties can be priced as high as $340,000.
Gonzales ISD schools serve all grades with mixed ratings
The schools zoned to the city are Gonzales Primary Academy, which serves prekindergarten and first grade and doesn’t currently have a Niche score; Gonzales Elementary earns a B-minus; Gonzales North Avenue, scores a C-plus; Gonzales Junior High, which has a C; and Gonzales High, which has a B-minus. All schools are within the Gonzales Independent School District, which rates a C-plus.
Outdoor fun includes river access and two large parks
The Guadalupe River runs by the city’s southwest corner and is popular for fishing and kayaking. Independence Park is a sprawling green space near the river with a community pool, ball fields, nine-hole golf course, playground and picnic pavilions. Kerr Creek Park is a large green space on the east side with a disc golf course.
Groceries at H-E-B and Walmart with dining downtown
Residents pick up groceries at H-E-B and essentials at Walmart. Downtown Gonzales has a variety of local boutiques and restaurants along St. Joseph Street. Come and Take It Bar and Grill is a community staple and loved for its burgers, steaks, full bar and laid-back atmosphere. Gonzales Bistro offers fine dining with dishes by Chef Parind Vora and an extensive wine list. The Lynn Theater is nearby and screens the latest blockbusters. Gonzales Healthcare Systems and other medical offices are clustered on the city’s northeast side.
Gonzales hosts seasonal festivals with food and family fun
The Come and Get It Celebration brings locals together every October for historical reenactments, live music, food vendors, cookoffs, a classic car show, and an art show. In December, Winterfest celebrates Christmas with events including kids’ games, a historical homes tour, tree lighting and breakfast with Santa.
No public transit, but driving is direct to nearby cities
Due to the lack of public transportation in the city, residents get around by car. Sarah DeWitt Drive and Water Street are the major thoroughfares and connect to nearby cities and highways. Gonzalez Municipal Airport is on the city’s northwest side and is reserved for light-to-medium planes.
Hot summers, mild winters, and flooding possibilities
From April to October, it is humid, with temperatures in the 80s and 90s. The rest of the year is usually in the 60s. Flooding is possible, especially close to the Guadalupe River. The city has flood zone maps on its website.
