Are you tongue-tied when it comes to pronouncing the names of Texas cities? If you’re a new arrival to the Lone Star state most likely you’ve been corrected more than once when pronouncing some of our more well-known cities. Let’s face it learning the correct pronunciation of Texas cities can be a whole new experience just in itself.
With language’s tricky nuances combined with those of us trying to pronounce certain Texas cities less the wiser we come up just a little short. However, there’s one thing for sure. Texans pride themselves on doing things just a little different than the rest of the world. And language is no exception. To get you up to speed on talking like a Texan, we’ve come up with the most mispronounced Texas cities to help you bridge the language barrier gap. And give you some reasons why they make great day trip destinations. Before we start, here’s a hint. Throw out the language rule book, you won’t need it.
Mispronounced Texas cities starting with “B”
Bexar (Bear) County – Rooted in Spanish history Bexar County is home to the city of San Antonio. It was founded in 1836 and named for San Antonio de Béxar which was 1 of 23 Mexican municipalities of Texas at the time of its independence. This vibrant city is full of rich culture and history, missions to explore and Fiesta San Antonio, an annual tradition that draws thousands.
Boerne (Ber-NEE) – When it comes to pronouncing this quaint Hill Country city with lots of personality many pronounce it as Born. The city’s history is quite the story. Whether you are going to spend the day with family, or are looking to take out-of-town guests somewhere special, Boerne fits the bill. To plan your day use this e-guide for everything to see, do and eat in this small homespun city with tons of modern flair.
Buda (BYOO-duh) – Though this city’s website claims they’re off the beaten path, we have to disagree. Its central location between the cities of Austin and San Marcos make it an ideal place to stop and explore. Buda’s status as the “Outdoor Capital of Texas” is hard to argue with. The city has high a percentage of parkland, hiking and biking trails and 13 scenic recreational areas perfect to soak in nature.
Burnet (BURN-it) – Just an hour from Austin, Burnet’s small town population gets a big dose of out-of-towners every spring during bluebonnet season. As the official Bluebonnet Capital of Texas, Burnet’s location in the Texas Hill Country reaps the benefits of several natural wonders including Longhorn Cavern State Park, Inks Lakes State Park and Canyon on the Eagles Nature Park.
E-L
Elgin (EL-gen) – For those that know this city as a large metro area outside of the city of Chicago, it’s hard to come to terms that it’s not pronounced as EL-gin. But that’s Texas for you. As a depot town Elgin was built in 1872 by the Houston and Central Texas Railroad and named after its land commissioner Robert Morris Elgin. Today, most Texans know Elgin as the “Sausage Capital of Texas.” Sausage is king in this city but so is the annual Hogeye Festival that happens every fall.
Gruene (GrEEn) – This historic district in the German city of New Braunfels (New-BRAWN-fulls) is one of the most mispronounced in the state. Moreover, once you get used to pronouncing it like the color it’s so much easier. Its small town feeling, quaint shops, dining establishments, outdoor activities, wineries, and nightlife make it a great family destination or a fantastic girl’s weekend.
Llano (Lan-OH) – Deep in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Llano’s historic value today can still be explored. Many of the city’s buildings from the 1800s are still intact. From train robbers to silver prospectors and the infamous crime duo Bonnie & Clyde, the legendary Dabbs Railroad Hotel was a popular resting stop throughout the 1900s. As a history museum and quaint wedding destination the hotel’s iconic status is still alive today. Standing tall and proud the LanTex theater shouldn’t be missed. It still remains as an epicenter of entertainment in downtown Llano.
M-N
Manor (MAY-ner) –This Travis County city is just 12 miles outside of Austin’s city limits. Today, because of its prime location to Austin it’s ripe for future economic growth. To spend time with the family you can explore the Wild West in all its glory at the J. Lorraine Texas Ghost Town. This Manor family attraction provides hours of fun and includes Old West storefronts, a maze, games, food and music.
Mexia (Muh-HAY-uh) – Known for its good sense of humor, the small city of Mexia knows that newcomers and visitors alike can’t pronounce their name correctly. The city’s tagline, “A great place to live no matter how you pronounce it,” helps prove the point. From Austin traveling distance is slightly more than two hours. Mexia’s place in Texas history can be explored through various area attractions and historic sites.
Nacogdoches (Nack-ah-DOE-chess) – As the oldest city in Texas, Nacogdoches is well-worth the longer drive from Austin. When you arrive you’ll discover a city proud of its culture, history and heritage. This East Texas city rooted in history was once part of a territory settled by the Caddo Indians. Today, it’s a charming weekend destination filled with family-friendly activities. From antiquing to hiking trails to museums, outdoor recreation and beautiful gardens, you’ll find it in Nacogdoches.
P-W
Palestine (Pal-e-STEEN) – Who would have thought that this East Texas city has a counterpart in Palestine, Illinois? Daniel Parker, a preacher hailing from Palestine, Illinois, was the driving force behind naming this city in 1846. Famous for its dogwood trees, Palestine comes alive every spring when thousands of delicate white flowers grace the trees at Davey Dogwood Park and nature trails throughout the city. Palestine also houses over 1,800 historic buildings and landmarks and boasts four residential and commercial historic districts.
Waco (WAY-co) – It’s easy and a little fun to want to pronounce this city’s name as WACKO. North of Austin, Waco’s become a destination for loyal fans of the popular HGTV show Fixer Upper. Now, known by the devoted as the silo city, Waco has been able to shun some of its less popular claims to fame. Today, as home to Baylor University, Cameron Park Zoo, and the Waco Mammoth National Monument it’s a great place to hang out for the day. There’s also plenty of trendy shopping and dining establishments too.
Waxahachie (WAWKS-uh-HATCH-ee) – Established in 1850 along the Waxahachie Creek, today this bustling city lies within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Early Indian inhabitants named it after the word meaning “Buffalo Creek.” While touring Waxahachie’s five National Register Historic Districts don’t forget to visit the Ellis County Courthouse. This 1895 architectural mainstay in the city’s downtown area was built with pink granite and sandstone.
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