When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Hudson Bend Ranch
Why Hudson Bend Ranch is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hudson Bend Ranch offers an exceptional destination wedding experience set on five private lush acres on the tranquil outskirts of Austin, Texas. With its rustic charm and picturesque surroundings near Lake Travis, this venue provides a stunning backdrop ideal for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and weekend retreats with family and friends. The ranch accommodates up to 175 guests in its versatile celebration spaces, which include expansive courtyards, gardens, two rustic yet modern barns, a meadow surrounded by natural wildlife, and two built-in bars. Beyond the event spaces, Hudson Bend Ranch boasts inclusive lodging options to comfortably host overnight guests throughout the wedding weekend. These include a large ranch house, guest house, two unique airstream trailers, a lofted barn apartment, and a dedicated dog park, together providing accommodation for up to 25 guests. The venue’s three tailored wedding packages help couples plan their ideal celebration with flexibility and all the essential amenities, blending DIY elements with thoughtful provisions such as chairs, tables, linens, lighting, and sound. Owned by LGBTQ+, Veteran-, and Woman-owned leadership, the ranch emphasizes an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, supported by a friendly and professional team. Its location offers convenient proximity to local attractions like Oasis Brewery and downtown Austin, perfect for guests looking to explore the wider area while enjoying a peaceful retreat. Hudson Bend Ranch is renowned for its combination of natural beauty, personal service, and functional elegance—making it a unique and memorable place to celebrate life's special moments.
Here's what people think of Hudson Bend Ranch
As of recent, Hudson Bend Ranch holds a 5-star rating based on 102 reviews.
Reviews for Hudson Bend Ranch highlight outstanding satisfaction, with an average rating of 5.0 from over 100 reviews, reflecting exceptional quality and service. Guests consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of the venue's gardens, rustic and modern aesthetics, and idyllic setting near Lake Travis. Positive feedback emphasizes the professionalism, friendliness, and caring nature of the owners and staff, with many noting how helpful the team is in making wedding planning smooth and personalized. The availability of on-site lodging for family and friends is repeatedly mentioned as a major advantage, enhancing the communal and celebratory atmosphere. The peaceful, nature-rich environment brings a welcome escape from typical commercial venues, perfect for intimate and memorable gatherings. On the less favorable side, while reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some potential concerns might relate to the venue’s DIY approach, which may require couples to take a more active role in planning than fully catered venues typically demand. However, even this is often framed positively for couples seeking customization and control over their wedding experience. Overall, reviews affirm Hudson Bend Ranch as one of Austin's premier wedding destinations, praised for its inclusive environment, scenic charm, and attentive service that ensures every celebration is special and unforgettable.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Daisy Love
We were lucky enough to find Hudson Bend Ranch for our family reunion! They allow dogs, which was very integral to our trip, as my family has multiple dogs that we consider a part of the family. We booked the large house, the apartment, as well as some Airstream RVs, and my family was extremely comfortable here! It was quiet, beautiful, and we had so much space for our family to be together, as well as for them to enjoy their time apart in nature. Amazingly, the ranch is only about 30 minutes from town, so our family was able to enjoy a night in Austin, too! We also went out on a charter on Lake Travis for half a day, which is only a few blocks from the ranch (less than a 5 minute drive,) and I really recommend that outing too. The gardens here at Hudson Bend Ranch are nothing short of gorgeous. There is so much space (I understand over 5 acres) to spread out and enjoy nature and the serene environment, including plenty of stars to see at night. We were very grateful to find Hudson Bend Ranch for quality family time, and we can't wait to come back!
Nicole Turner
We had our wedding here after our original venue went bankrupt and got evicted 4 months until our wedding. Hudson Bend Ranch answered my SOS with open arms and cut us a spectacular deal for an inconsolable bride to be. We were so lucky, it was much nicer than our original venue and we were able to stay with our family on the property all weekend- made so many wonderful memories thanks to that. The wedding was perfect and better than I could have dreamed because of Hudson Bend Ranch. The grounds are magical and well kept, and any issues are taken care of promptly and with care. I’ll never forget how this venue made my perfect wedding day a reality and can’t recommend it enough. We will have to come back for an anniversary and have even discussed with family the possibility of beginning a family reunion tradition here!
Diane Fales
Hudson Bend Ranch was the PERFECT place for our loved ones to gather & celebrate all wedding weekend. The property is beautiful & the living spaces are comfortable and cozy. It was spacious enough for both of our families + favorite cousins to stay for a long weekend! The actual wedding space is gorgeous & they have EVERYTHING you could ever need. There are so many options and layouts available! Do yourself a favor & book Victoria for wedding planning/day of assistance too! She will honor your vision, you won’t have to lift a finger & she has thought of everything since she’s worked at this venue so successfully. I don’t regret a single thing about choosing Hudson Bend Ranch for this special life celebration.
Kat Impastato
I had my wedding here in October of '24 and I can't say enough about this venue. My entire wedding party stayed here due to many of them being out of town and it was perfect with the amount of room/beds for everyone. The venue itself is absolutely beautiful and there are many different spots that are perfect for the alter that you can choose from. They are animal friendly which was perfect for my Velcro dog, as he likes to follow me everywhere and is such a big part of our lives he just had to be included. The grounds keeper was super friendly and helpful to all guests. If you are looking for a venue for any event, I definitely recommend this place!
Dave Krause
WOW. What a gem of a place. I recommend Hudson Bend Ranch enthusiastically to anyone wanting to stay near Austin, Tx! I booked my family and extended family for a milestone celebration and brought my large family of 3 generations, including all of the kids 1-6 years old, our grandparents in their 80s, our family dogs of 3 breeds, and 8 of my city friends. It felt like a sanctuary and oasis away from Austin - and it's only 2 blocks from the largest lake too (Lake Travis). We all agreed we had an absolute blast! Hudson Bend Ranch is the PERFECT environment for safety, serenity, memories and quality time with loved ones. Can't wait to come back for some alone time with my spouse.
How to reach Hudson Bend Ranch
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Website: None
Why Hudson Bend Ranch may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hudson Bend Ranch with your friends?\ Gathering a group for a memorable meetup calls for a setting that inspires connection, fun, and relaxation away from the everyday. Hudson Bend Ranch, with its perfect blend of natural beauty and Texas Hill Country charm, offers precisely that kind of experience. Nestled on five private acres near Austin and framed by serene views of Lake Travis, it delivers a peaceful, spacious oasis where friends and family can reconnect in comfort and style. This ranch isn’t just a venue; it’s a complete getaway, designed to host celebrations that last all weekend long with inclusive lodging and celebration spaces that keep everyone close and engaged. Whether you are planning a casual hangout, a group retreat, or a special event like a reunion or wedding, Hudson Bend Ranch's welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful amenities serve as an ideal backdrop for creating lifelong memories with those you cherish most. Its 5.0 rating from over 100 reviews further attests to its excellence and appeal as a meetup destination. Here, a gathering becomes more than an event—it becomes an experience enriched by the soothing landscape and a genuine Texan welcome.
What activities can you enjoy at Hudson Bend Ranch and why is it perfect for a group meetup?\ Hudson Bend Ranch offers a diverse range of activities and event opportunities uniquely suited for groups seeking both relaxation and entertainment. Whether you want to host a low-key weekend getaway with friends or throw a lively celebration, this venue has dedicated spaces and thoughtfully curated activities to match your needs. With nine distinct celebration spaces, including spots for rehearsals, ceremonies, cocktail hours, receptions, and even dance parties, the ranch provides flexibility and variety to suit any group’s preferences or event format. Guests can spread out across the expansive grounds, enjoying lakeside views, open-air patios, and charming indoor spaces that invite socializing and relaxation. The ranch’s accommodation options—five separate lodges with room for up to 25 overnight guests—allow your entire group to stay on-site, facilitating a seamless and immersive experience. The multi-day packages further enhance this by bundling celebration spaces with lodging, meaning your group can sleep, eat, and play without having to travel elsewhere.
How does Hudson Bend Ranch’s setting enhance your group experience?\ The ranch’s location on the quiet outskirts of Austin, Texas, endowed with the natural splendor of the Hill Country and proximity to Lake Travis, elevates every gathering. The private five acres are carefully maintained to preserve a rustic charm while offering modern conveniences that ensure comfort and accessibility for all guests. This blend of serene natural beauty and hospitality provides a calm environment free from city noise, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting. Whether you enjoy morning coffee by the lake, sunset cocktails on the patio, or late-night conversations by a fire pit, the setting nurtures a relaxed communal vibe. Groups can indulge in outdoor activities like hiking or casual lawn games right on the property, making it easy to fill the day with shared adventures. The space feels intimate despite its size, offering cozy corners and open areas alike for different group interactions. In essence, the ranch’s surroundings foster deep connection, making your gathering meaningful and refreshing.
What kind of lodging and accomodations does Hudson Bend Ranch provide?\ Hudson Bend Ranch accommodates groups with five distinct lodging options to comfortably host up to 25 overnight guests. These lodges, each uniquely styled with rustic Texas aesthetics, provide a cozy and private retreat after a day full of activities and socializing. The accommodations are designed to balance charm with convenience, featuring comfortable beds, modern amenities, and easy access to the ranch’s communal celebration spaces. This proximity encourages your group to come together not only for planned events but also for spontaneous gatherings, whether in the common lounge areas or outdoor fire pits. Extended stays are simple and enjoyable thanks to the ranch's package options that grant access to lodging and celebration spaces for multiple nights. This all-in-one setup eliminates the hassle of coordinating off-site accommodations, allowing friends and family to focus entirely on their time spent together. The thoughtful layout ensures privacy when desired while maintaining a warm, communal atmosphere.
How does Hudson Bend Ranch support group events and gatherings beyond simple lodging?\ Beyond just a charming place to stay, Hudson Bend Ranch excels as a full-service venue for various group events, including weddings, reunions, retreats, and milestone celebrations. The ranch offers customizable event packages tailored to different group sizes and needs, making the planning process smooth and stress-free for organizers. These packages provide access to multiple exclusive locations across the ranch for every phase of an event—from rehearsal dinners to ceremonies, from cocktail hours to dance parties. The flexible spaces accommodate both intimate groups and larger gatherings, all while maintaining a secure, private environment. Attention to detail and personal service by the owners and staff, as reported by guests, ensure a welcoming experience that meets the expectations of even the most discerning groups. These features transform any meetup into a seamless, joyful celebration where the logistics are handled with care, allowing guests to focus on having a great time together.
What makes Hudson Bend Ranch’s service and atmosphere unique for hosting friends and family?\ The success of any group gathering hinges on the venue’s ability to foster a warm, inviting atmosphere combined with attentive and personalized service. Hudson Bend Ranch stands out by offering not only a stunning venue but also an experience that feels genuinely hospitable and inclusive. Reviews consistently highlight the owner Steven’s generosity, availability, and attention to guests’ questions and needs as a major plus that enhances the overall comfort and satisfaction. This personal touch, paired with the ranch’s all-encompassing setup—from private lodges to versatile celebration spaces—ensures that guests feel cared for and at ease throughout their stay. The balance of rustic charm and contemporary comfort creates an authentic Texas Hill Country ambiance that invites guests to relax and celebrate without complication. Whether your group is gathering for a casual weekend or a grand celebration, Hudson Bend Ranch’s welcoming environment makes everyone feel like a part of something special, turning ordinary meetups into cherished memories that last long after the weekend ends.