Drive Tip
If you can avoid driving through Austin, do it! Austin used to have a reputation of being a great city with no traffic. Of course, many people have moved to Austin partly to get away from the traffic and now Austin is a mess! Coming in via 290, it took us 1.5 hours to make it through Austin! As we sat there in traffic I started thinking we should have flown - it takes less than 1.5 by plane from Houston to Fredericksburg (Gillepsie County Airport). And if you think you can save time coming in via 71 forget it! 71 just west of 35 is where we spent about 30 minutes parked. I would recommend taking a more scenic route via Buda (take 35 south). In Buda, catch 967 west to 1826 and Driftwood. Plan your meals ahead so you can take a break at the Salt Lick before heading north on 1826 to 290.
Incidently, on our way home we returned, hoping to get some pictures without any people. Well, even early on Sunday morning Luckenbach is popular with strange people on bikes wearing funny helmets and clothing. Except these riders were pedaling their ride and drinking power drinks instead of beer (I know, some of you consider beer a "power drink" but that is not what I meant).
To get to Luckenbach from Fredericksburg take 290 east about 6 miles to FM1376. Then go south for about 6 or 7 miles to Luckenbach. Pay attention or you will pass it up (it will be on your right as you head south). And don't be fooled by "Uptown Luckenbach" - that only means you are close.