In southern Milan County, you’ll find the town of Rockdale, Texas. The 400 acres of land on which the town laid on was sold in 1873 by George Green, B. F. Ackerman, and Frank Smith to the International-Great Northern Railroad. 

The town name came to be from a nearby rock that was said to be 12-feet high and had a circumference of 20-feet. By 1878, Rockdale was incorporated and established an aldermanic government. 

Now that the county had a major railroad, Rockdale quickly became a shipping and supply point for area farmers, who produced cotton, wool, vegetables, fruits, grain, hides, and livestock. As the agriculture in the region grew, so did its population. 

In 1884, the town of Rockdale was home to 1,700 residents, five churches, two schools, an opera house, a bank, and a weekly newspaper. 

Today, 5,323 people call the city of Rockdale home. 

Dining

Don’t miss out on an array of dishes at Coronas Mexican Restaurant. From delicious appetizers like Chile con Queso, fajita nachos, and entrees such as enchiladas, burritos, and burgers, you’ll definitely want to come back to try other dishes! 

Before you leave town, you’re going to want to experience the best BBQ Texas has to offer at Big Boys BBQ. Choose from a variety of meats, sandwiches, and sides for the entire family! 

Shopping 

Rockdale has quite a few options for those looking to find some Southern apparel. Check out Rustic Charm Decor & Boutique for cute gypsy-inspired shirts and blouses, flare jeans, leather bags, and even spa gifts! For similar clothing trends, head on over to The Gypsy Cottage! 

Outdoors

Rockdale has a great place to golf for youth and adults at the Rockdale Country Club & Golf Course. When you’re done hitting the green, enjoy the club’s burgers, Philly cheesesteak, and onion rings! 

Or, stay close to the center of town with the water park of Sumuel Park, the greenery at Hale Park, and Rockdale Fair Park & Rodeo Arena. 

Historical Sites

A nifty little spot is The Kay Theatre, a community center, hosting special events, weddings, music & theatrical performances, and movie screenings. The building was once a military Quonset hut made during World War II. It was moved to Rockdale in 1947 and was renovated as the town’s second movie theatre. In 2013, it was commissioned as a historic landmark and is the last remaining theater in Milam County. 

But that’s not all, visitors are encouraged to go on a walking tour of the town to view the variety of historic markers like the 1906 International & Great Northern Passenger Depot Marker, 

1918 Rainbow Courts Motel Marker, Matinee Musical Club, and so much more! 

Arts & Entertainment

Although small, Rockdale has an array of activities to participate in. Look out for the Rockdale Fall Music Festival that offers fun for the entire family with free Live Music all day. Plus, the entire family is sure to enjoy The Rockdale Fair & Rodeo. 

Adults can rest assured that the city also has an event for them too. Whistle Stop Wine Tour & Holiday Lights Festival occurs the Saturday before Thanksgiving and allows attendees to try the best of Texas Wines! The night ends with the Christmas Tree Lighting, Holiday Parade, and musical performances.