Washington, D.C. (February 3, 2010)—Today, the National Trust for Historic Preservation named Bastrop, Texas, one of its 2010 Dozen Distinctive Destinations.  Bastrop, nominated by Bastrop Main Street, was selected for its unique place in Texas history, its well-preserved and vibrant downtown, its rich and varied calendar of annual events and its proximity to the Lost Pines natural region.  In the month of February, Bastrop will be participating in the first-ever public online voting contest for the 2010 Dozen Distinctive Destinations Fan Favorite.

For 10 years the National Trust for Historic Preservation has annually selected communities across America that offer cultural and recreational experiences different from those found at the typical vacation destination. From dynamic downtowns and stunning architecture to cultural diversity and a commitment to historic preservation, sustainability and revitalization, the selected destinations boast a richness of character and exude an authentic sense of place. 

“The city of Bastrop is remarkable for its vibrant, walkable downtown, distinguished architecture, celebrated cultural diversity, and a population devoted to protecting its character,” said Richard Moe, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “Bastrop embodies everything that a distinctive destination should be, and I hope many will take the opportunity to visit when our annual National Preservation Conference takes place in Austin in October 2010.”    

Nestled against the banks of the Colorado River just 30 minutes from downtown Austin, Bastrop boasts a history that dates back over 175 years.  The town offers visitors a glimpse of Texas’ rich past, a dynamic downtown filled with 19^th- and early 20^th-century buildings, unique restaurants and shops and access to two state parks.  Established in 1832 as one of Stephen F. Austin’s original colonies and later home to many participants in Texas’ struggle for independence, Bastrop is widely recognized as one of the most historic communities in Texas. 

Highlights:

·         Bastrop County Historical Museum, located in a restored 1853 home, is one of over 130 homes and sites listed in the National Register of Historic Places

·         Yesterfest, a family-friendly annual festival, held the last weekend in April, celebrates the cultures that make up Bastrop’s story: African American, American Indian, Mexican, German, Scottish, Czech and Cowboy

·         Bastrop Opera House, built in 1889, is one of the oldest in Central Texas and still offers performances

·         Bastrop and Beuscher state parks, part of the ecologically unique Lost Pines region, are nearby

·         El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail links Bastrop with dozens of other historic places from Louisiana to Mexico

·         Over 15 restaurants, including Anita’s and Maxine’s on Main, serve locally produced food, and the town has two farmers markets

·         Downtown Bastrop showcases an array of interesting boutiques, many housed in adapted historic buildings

·         The Colorado River, which runs right through downtown, is lined with parks and miles of walking and biking trails

        For the first time, the public will determine which of the 12 destinations will be the 2010 Fan Favorite. From February 3 to February 28, any legal resident of the U.S., 18 years of age or older, can vote as often as they like for their favorite city or town on this year’s list. The winner of the popular vote will be announced on March 1, 2010.  Voters are automatically entered to win a complimentary two night stay at any Historic Hotel of America. No purchase necessary.  Offer void where prohibited.  Visit www.PreservationNation.org/ddd for official rules, information about Historic Hotels of America, to learn more about this year’s destinations, and to begin voting!