Archives: Daytrips

Conroe, TX

Conroe is a daytrip full of all kinds of things – from exhilarating water fun to significant Texas history. Whether you’re looking to roam a lakefront playground, enjoy a getaway to the Piney Woods of East Texas or  learn about the beginnings of the Lone Star Flag, Conroe is the place for you!

CULTURE

Contrary to the what you may have learned from a certain amusement park, Texas had more than six flags before it settled on the Lone Star flag, and the Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park is the perfect place to learn about all the flags in our history. This park features all 12 flags before Dr. Charles B. Stewart of Montgomery finally created the Lone Star Flag in 1839.

 For a history of Montgomery County, head to the Heritage Museum of Montgomery County in the 1924 Grogan/Cochran home. Learn more about famous Montgomery resident Dr. Charles B. Stewart who created the Lone Star flag and served as the first Secretary of State to the Republic of Texas, and try on period pioneer clothing in the Children’s Room.

Visit the Saint Francis Wolf Sanctuary that rescues wolves in Montgomery. You can learn all about these majestic creatures and even meet a few of them!

FOOD

In Historic Downtown, you’ll find the Red Brick Tavern that serves food just as legendary as the musicians that rock its stage. They specialize in revamping old favorites like BBQ Meatloaf topped with Yukon Potatoes and Pistachio Crusted Pork Chops, as well as delicious new creations like Pulled Pork Nachos and Bacon Fried Oysters.

If a day on the lake makes you crave fish, no need to hop in a boat and cast a line, head to Kuntry Katfish for the best fried catfish around. For 30 years the Vernon family has been serving up fried Southern fare and fish just like mama used to. Start with fried green tomatoes, and end with crispy fried catfish, frog legs and shrimp for one fantastic fried feast!

OUTDOORS

Conroe’s biggest attraction is the lake and an awesome way to explore it is on the only human-powered party boats in Texas at Dryft Cycleboats. Bring a beer, some grub and whatever else you need for a good time and hit the water. You can even dive in and turn this boat party into a swimming party!

If you want to look super cool and feel like a spaceman, head on over to Hydro Rockets where they’ll teach you to flyboard. This extreme water sport uses the water propulsion of a jet ski to make you fly through the air. It’s really easy to learn and your instructor will make sure you stay at a safe height. Soon, you’ll soaring high, diving like a dolphin and boarding like a pro!

Taylor, TX

If you have ever wanted to dedicate an entire day to eating amazing barbecue, than a trip to Taylor is just what you’ve been looking for. This town that’s a part of the Texas Barbecue Belt serves up some of the best smokey meats in the state, along with awesome craft beer, beautiful lakes and great stories of revitalization. To download the episode or purchase it on DVD — CLICK HERE.

 FOOD

First of all, you’ll probably need to eat two lunches or dinners to cover all the precious meats in this town. A great place to start is the mythic, heavenly Louie Mueller Barbecue. Since 1949, this no frills joint has been serving BBQ the true Texas way — with a rub that’s just salt and pepper and BIG flavor. Louie’s is a must when you’re in Taylor.

Across the street is Taylor Cafe, where 92 year-old WWII vet Vencil Mares is still providing customers with excellent barbecue and great conversation. Since the restaurant first opened in 1948, its juicy turkey sausage, moist brisket and flavorful pork ribs have been a pillar of the community, bringing all sorts of people together.

While Davis Grocery and Bar-B-Q is an actual grocery store where you can buy the ingredients to cook your own meals, you don’t need to…Reverend James Davis is always cookin’ up mighty delicious ‘que in the kitchen. When the Reverend isn’t preaching at the First Baptist Church, he’s in the ministry of meats — and trust me, just one bite of his pork steak topped with homemade comeback sauce and you’ll definitely be in heaven.

CULTURE

To learn about one of the most fearless Texas heroes visit the Moody Museum, set in the home where Governor Dan Moody grew up. Not only was he the youngest governor in Texas history at age 33, Dan was also the first in US history to send members of the KKK to prison. You’ll also learn about other Taylor-born Texas greats like Tex Avery, the creator of Bugs Bunny.

For a pint of craft beer, stop into the local hangout Texas Beer Company, which is bringing life back into a once deserted downtown. It’s the best place to shoot the breeze with the locals and learn more about old town Taylor.

OUTDOORS

For a relaxing way to see Granger Lake, let local fishing guide Tommy Tidwell take you out Crappie Fishing (by the way, Crappie rhymes with “floppy”). These small freshwater fish like to hide out in the tangled vegetation underwater, but Tommy knows exactly where to find them and can help you catch a fish in no time. It’s a perfect way to show kids the ropes of fishing!

And if you’ve got leftover bread from all that BBQ, there are a ton of ducks at Murphy Park that will be happy to take it off your hands.

Terlingua, TX

Physically this desert town sits at the edge of Texas, but metaphysically it’s on a whole ‘nother plane. The vibe of Terlingua is unexplainable, mixing the weirdness of Austin, the art culture of Marfa, and great abandon of the Chihuahuan Desert to form an amazing place to disappear from the rest of the world. To download the episode or purchase it on DVD — CLICK HERE.

CULTURE

Driving into town you’ll likely wonder, “Where am I and why do people live here?”  So to learn more about the history of town, visit the Terlingua Cemetery. Though it just looks like a bunch of old graves and wooden crosses, it tells the story of the once booming mercury mining town. You’ll even seen the graves from the 1918 flu epidemic that wiped out a huge percentage of the population.

Join the locals and enjoy a beer on “The Porch” in front of the Terlingua Trading Company. Besides being the town hangout spot, inside this shop you’ll also find a ton of products as eclectic as the town, itself. We’re talking roadrunner statues, wedding skeleton figurines and more!

FOOD

The must-stop is the Starlight Theater — which used to be just four adobe walls with nothing but the stars as the ceiling (hence the name…) Though it now has a roof, it’s still a rockin’ place to spend your evening enjoying handmade unique dishes like grilled quail, chicken fried wild boar and of course, good ol’ Terlingua chili. You can even say “howdy” to Clay Henry, a stuffed billy goat that was once the mayor of nearby Lajitas, Texas.  Once he died, they stuffed him and put in the Starlight so he can still hang out with the folks of Terlingua.

And to cap your night, head underground to the local hangout and first bar in town La Kiva (which literally means “the meeting place”).  In a cave with stone walls and even a few stalactites, it’s a cozy place to share a few beers with your buddies.

Did you miss the Big Bend Part 1 episode? Find it here.

Big Bend National Park

While  tripping to civilization is great, sometimes you must answer the call of the desert and trip to the farthest reaches of Texas. Big Bend National Park sits on the banks of the Rio Grande River where Texas and Mexico collide into a magical place where time slows down and the civilized world fades into a natural wonderland. To download this episode – CLICK HERE. Now, before you set out on your big adventure, be sure you’ve packed TONS of water. Out on the trails, the sun is sweltering and there aren’t any places to fill up, so make sure you’ve got enough to stay hydrated. Also, when you get there, the park will be so amazing that you’ll want to see everything…but that’s not possible, folks. Pick a few spots per trip and leave the others for your next adventure. And lastly, remember, everything in this park is living, and you’re trekking through its home, so be respectful and careful. HAVE FUN! While 1200+ square miles of desert is hard to wrap your head around, think of Big Bend as having 3 separate parts – Mountains, River, and Desert Lowlands.  Each one is full of amazing things to explore, and we’ll share some thoughts accordingly. To download the episode or purchase it on DVD — CLICK HERE.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

Before starting your journey, head to Panther Junction Visitor’s Center, the park’s headquarters and the largest visitor’s center. They’ve got all the resources you’ll need to map out where you’re going, as well as a friendly park ranger who’ll be happy to help you figure out the best routes. You can also get your backcountry and river use permits here. There’s even a small museum where you can learn about the history of Big Bend, which was the first national park in Texas started in 1944.

DESERT LOWLANDS

The Chihuahuan Desert is an incredible ecosystem with some incredilble hikes.  A great first hike to take is the Grapevine Hills Trail, which is a pretty easy 2 mile hike where you can get the lay of the land and stretch your legs. Along this trail, you’ll find one of the most iconic views in Big Bend, Balanced Rock, a natural formation where a giant boulder is resting upon two towering pillars of rock.It’s an outta this world site and an epic climbing spot!

You should also check out Ernst Tinaja, Devil’s Den, and the Lower Burro Mesa Pour-Off Trail.  Details Here.

MOUNTAINS

Smack in the middle of the park is an incredible mountain range rising out of the desert floor.  Take the road into the high-country and your first stop will be Chisos Basin Visitor’s Center to learn about the animal life and hiking up here. You’ll also find the only Lodge and only restaurant in the park – Chisos Mountain Lodge Restaurant.  Here you can grab a meal without having to leave the amazing views behind. And the food is really good too. There are a dozen trails that explore this mountain range, but the South Rim Trail is my favorite.  It’s also the hardest and simultaneously most rewarding. This trail is a grueling, 7 1/2 mile uphill hike, but the view at the top of the South Rim is jaw-dropping, and you can see for miles into both Texas and Mexico. The journey along the way isn’t half-bad either, with tons of wildlife, trickling springs and an ever-changing terrain. I highly recommend breaking up the hike by camping in between. You’ll need a back country permit for that. As you hike along the South Rim Trail, you’ll see bear boxes that will keep your food and things safe as you hike the strenuous trail up to Emory Peak. The three mile hike up to the peak is steep and tasking (and at some points it’s less of a trail and more of a rock-climb), but the view at the top is more than worth it. Standing a towering 7, 825 ft. above sea-level, you get a breathtaking panoramic view atop the tallest point in Big Bend.

In the Chisos, you should also check out the Window Trail and Lost Mine Trail.  Details Here.

RIO GRANDE RIVER

This “wild and scenic” river winds for 118 miles around the park acting as its southern border.  It’s known for rough canyons and abandoned vistas.  All along the way are amazing stops.  My favorite is the Boquillas Hot Springs that used to be a tourist resort but is now a bubbling spring that flows into the ruins of the old camp.  Its gotta be the most historic natural hot tub in Texas. On the hike there you’ll find pictographs (ancient rock paintings) and petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings). There are also ruins nearby from the old 1914 resort. It’s amazing to find such a natural beauty that is both relaxing and historic!

Another must-stop is Santa Elena Canyon.  It’s breathtaking and we’re definitely saving it for our next episode out there.  🙂  If you’ve got your passport, don’t miss a trip to Boquillas Mexico. It’s open, safe, and depends on park tourists to stay healthy.

Check out our trip to nearby Terlingua, TX here.

Hillsboro, TX

Chances are you’ve driven past this town on I-35, and while Hillsboro may be known for it’s outlet malls and truck stops, a day trip here will show you it’s so much more. If you travel past the highway and traffic to the heart of town, you’ll find yourself wandering down memory lane into an old-fashioned adventure full of history and nostalgia. To download the episode or purchase it on DVD — CLICK HERE.

CULTURE

The Hillsboro Square has historic buildings that will make you feel as though you’ve been transported back in time. Among the businesses on the square you’ll find T.B. Bond Pharmacy, which was started in 1881 and is now Texas’s Oldest Pharmacy. And if you’re brave, stop by Bond’s Alley next door — which was once the seediest part of town full of fisticuffs and cock fights. In the center of the Square is the Hill County Courthouse, which was rebuilt with the help of Willie Nelson in 1999 after it burnt down.  Willie is a Hill County boy, born down the road in Abbott, Texas.

The Roadside America Museum is exactly the kind of museum you’d hope to find next to the historic Square. This museum started as an ode to the “Grapette” soda memorabilia but has grown to include all kinds of classic ads, cars and nostalgic antiques. Time will fly as you reminisce on the “good ol’ days.”  The owner may even give you a sample of Grapette, just not from the 50 year old bottles.

Visit the Hill County Cell Block Museum in a jailhouse built in 1893 where legend holds Elvis spent a night after being arrested for drunk driving in town. Clyde Barrow (of Bonnie and Clyde) also busted out one of his gang-members from this building.  And while Willie Nelson never did time here, inside you’ll find a collection of his platinum albums and guitars amongst all the other collectibles telling the story of Hill County.  You can also read messages written in soot on the jail cell walls left by prisoners long ago.

The Texas Heritage Museum is another must-see museum while you’re in town. Located inside Hill College, it’s mission is to tell the story of the brave Texans who fought in wartime. The museum has artifacts and guns from both sides of the battles dating all the way back to the Texas Revolution. You can hear the stories of well-known soldiers like Milton Holland (the first Texan to receive the Medal of Honor) and see the medals of heroes like Audie Murphy (the most decorated WWII soldier).

FOOD 

For a meal that’s just as classic as the town itself, head to A Tiskit – A Taskit, a little diner off the square that is part soda fountain, part antique shop. Step inside and you’ll swear you’re in the 50’s as you chow down on your burger and slurp your milkshake made with homemade ice cream. And see if you can spot the antique train chugging along the track above the diner.

While in Hillsboro, make time for Taylor’s Smokehouse. Not only do they serve up tender brisket with a unique rub and custom ground sausages, they also smoke their own bacon. For a BBQ sandwich with a kick, get the “Smokin’ Gun” which has pork, brisket and spicy sausage piled together on a toasty bun and topped with jalapenos. It stings in the most delicious way!

OUTDOORS

For adventure in the beautiful outdoors, head to Lake Whitney, where you can do a special kind of climbing you’ll only find on a handful of lakes in Texas: deep water soloing. It’s a rock climb that quickly turns into a swim if you fall, so prepare to get wet. You can boat to the rock climbing walls, or set out from Soldiers Bluff park and hike to the climbs – if you’re feeling brave.  Just be sure to research the area before you climb so you know the water depth and rock quality. And don’t forget a buddy!

Turkey, TX

If you’re looking for a getaway, search no further than Turkey — but not the Turkey across the sea. There are no airplane flights involved in this day trip. Turkey, TX has all the adventure you need from colorful canyons and towering mesas to ancient Indian treasures and a rock legend. So slow down and set your watch to Turkey time.  To download this episode or purchase it on DVD, CLICK HERE.

FOOD

This town is filled with history and culture, and the food is no exception. To start your day in Turkey, head to local institution Galvan’s and let Cuca cook you a fantastic made-from-scratch breakfast. Cuca and her husband have been serving up authentic Mexican and delicious American dishes since 1967 and you can’t go wrong with either one. And don’t forget the homemade apple, cherry and apricot fried pies!

The best place to savor the relaxing pace of this town and the friendly folks that inhabit it is Hotel Turkey, where your warm meal comes with heartfelt conversation and a cozy atmosphere. The menu changes daily but you can bet that this restaurant is always serving up some of the best comfort food in town. Turkey Hotel was built in 1927 and is known as the oldest continuously run hotel in Texas. At the end of your meal if you’re too stuffed to leave, let owner (and Turkey mayor) Pat Carson book you a room for the night.

OUTDOORS

If you think Texas is completely flat, visit the Caprock Canyons State Park immediately to see breathtaking canyons with layers of red and orange rock that plunge into deep valleys. The Caprock Canyons are situated right at the Llano Estacado where the flat land of Texas falls away to form these beautiful canyons. For a closer view of these natural canyons, take a horseback tour of the canyons with Quitaque Riding Stables.

As you explore the Caprock Canyons State Park, you may find yourself hiking next to a herd of bison. And these aren’t just any bison, they are part of the Official Texas State Bison Herd and direct descendants of the preservation herd Charles Goodnight started in 1878. It’s amazing to see these guys thriving in their native habitat surrounded by the amazing Caprock Canyons.

CULTURE

Centuries ago, Turkey was home to the Comanche Indians and remnants of their past can still be found in the red soil of this land. Visit the Comancheros Canyon Museum to learn about the people who lived in Turkey long ago and see the treasures that owner Jerry and his friends uncovered in the area with metal detectors.

Turkey was also home to Bob Wills, the King of Western Swing, who swung his way into the hearts of listeners all across America. Head to the Bob Wills Museum to see items from Bob’s pre-swing days like some of the original tools from his barbershop. And while you’re exploring town, you might even come across a replica of the Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys bus.

Turkey’s sister town Quitaque (pronounced kitty-kway) also shares the stories of Indians and Bison from days past. To mark areas of significance from Comanche history, the Texas Trail Region has erected arrows across the Panhandle to help you follow the Indians’ story.

Richmond, TX

While this town south of Houston may be on the deep, deep outskirts of town, it’s rich in culture, history and adventure that you won’t find anywhere else. From classic cigars and pioneer ranches to delicious ethnic cuisines and the best view of the stars you’ve ever seen, you’ll find that trippin’ through Richmond is like taking a trip across the past, present and future of Texas. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD, CLICK HERE.

FOOD

The best place to get a Cup of Joe and learn a little bit about Richmond’s history is at Joseph’s Coffee & Cigars. This historic shop started in 1903 by the Joseph’s as a cart that sold candy and peanuts around town. Now more than 100 years later it’s run by 4th generation Michael Joseph who is carrying on the family tradition. It serves up delicious coffee and a hodgepodge of eclectic items from antique guns to English sporting goods.

While you’re in town, you won’t have to look far for exotic cuisine — in fact, you can find amazing Vietnamese food at Country Pho in the neighboring town Rosenberg. Owners Le and Chau cook authentic pho (pronounced fuh) and other phenomenal dishes made with recipes from their home city of Ho Chi Mihn City (Saigon). The hand-stuffed spring rolls and homemade peanut sauce are out of this world and a must-try!

At Larry’s Original Mexican Restaurant, each dish is served with a side of Tex-Mex history — this Richmond institution has been opened since the 1960’s and not much has changed since. During their many decades of service, they’ve mastered the cheese enchilada which comes bathed in perfect cheesy goodness. And just like back in the good ol’ days, chili con carne (a Tex-Mex staple) is served on everything — including noodles! Order the Spaghetti Mexicana if you’re brave.

CULTURE

The beginning of Richmond dates back to the start of Texas in the 1820s when Stephen F. Austin brought the first official settlers to Texas and many of them settled on the Brazos River banks. To learn more about the first settlers visit the Fort Bend Museum. You can also learn about Richmond’s famous feud, The Jay Birds vs. The Woodpeckers (which is surprisingly not about birds at all…) and you can see Deaf Smith’s grave.

The George Ranch Historical Park is an awesome place to not only learn about the George Family but also about the early pioneer days of Texas. This living history experience takes you through four generations of the George Family. The historic houses on the ranch span from the 1830’s to the 1930’s giving you a peak into life in the different eras of Texas. If you happen to be in town on a Saturday, stop by the ranch for a full historic meal.

For a glimpse into the galaxies and beyond, head to the George Observatory. The massive telescope makes it look like Jupiter and Orion’s Belt are within reach. This fascinating view of the night skies is definitely one you don’t want to miss.

OUTDOORS

At Brazos Bend State Park, which has been named “Home of the American Alligator,” the gators are hanging out on the trails and enjoying  the park just like the tourists. It’s the best — and safest — way to get up close and personal with the scaly creatures. Be sure to hit up the Nature Center to learn more about these swamp gators and the other ecosystems and animals in the park.

New Braunfels, TX

Many know New Braunfels for the slip and slides of Schlitterbahn, but that’s just one slice of this German town. A passion for the past mixed with many new adventures await you in a town that will make your day trip truly das beste.  To download this episode or purchase it on DVD — CLICK HERE.

FOOD

To start your day, visit Naegelin’s Bakery, the oldest bakery in Texas dating back to 1868. The fresh baked goods are made with age-old German recipes. The apple strudel is amazing and the old-fashioned German cookies like “spingerles” and “Pfeffernusses” will have you thinking you’re back in the motherland.

If you’re looking to add a little spice to your day, then stop by the Phoenix Saloon, a chili parlor housed in the building where chili powder was invented in 1894.  They serve it the Texan way (read: the right way), as every bowl of chili is served bean-free with chunks of sirloin and lots of spice.  Be warned, the “ring of fire” bowl requires a waiver.  They’ve also got burgers and sandwiches for all those who don’t like chili (if that’s even possible…). 😉

CULTURE

The best way to learn about the German roots of New Braunfels and Prince Carl, the German Prince who settled the area, is to visit the Sophienburg Museum. Here, you’ll see tons of German artifacts such as a recreation of the ship that families took to arrive in Texas.

Another place that is historic in its own right, and one of America’s most iconic roadside attractions, is Snake Farm (cue the Ray Wiley Hubbard).  This zoo sits right on the highway and has been curing snake fears since 1967. They’ve got a wide range of the world’s creepiest snakes from Black Mambas to Rattlers and Cobras. If snakes aren’t your thing, step outside to an incredible zoo with lions, hyenas, and more.  Don’t miss the weekly gator feedings.  CHOMP!

OUTDOORS

One can’t mention New Braunfels without mentioning the famous Comal River.  At 2 miles long, it’s the shortest river in Texas, and perfect for an afternoon float. The most popular place to start your float is Prince Solms Park. Grab your tube, your beverage of choice, and hop in.  While most of this river is slow moving, the city tube shoot near the beginning will give you all the whitewater you can handle and has been known to flip many a floater.  You might want to hold onto your stuff, or else be prepared to make an involuntary donation to the river depths.

For a more adrenaline-pumping experience, head to the Texas Ski Ranch,  where you can learn to wakeboard without a boat. Just grab a board and hold on tight as a cable-system pulls you around a circular lake. My advice for first timers: watch out for the turns, and be prepared to spend more time under the water than on top of it!

Dallas, TX

Sometimes when you’re trippin’, small towns just won’t do – you need something BIG. And nothing’s bigger than the “Big D.” Dallas may be a town that’s always in motion, but it’s also a town brimming with huge personality, enormous flavor, and a really BIG heart. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD, CLICK HERE.

CULTURE

Since the heart of Dallas is crowded with towering skyscrapers, the best way to see the city is from the top of the Reunion Tower with a beautiful 360 degree view you won’t find anywhere else.  One of the coolest parts is the glass elevator that lets you watch your ascent to the sky – just hold on to your hats and hairpieces…it’s windy up there.

If you’ve ever been curious about anything…at all…then head to the Perot Museum, a place where science and fun go hand-in-hand. At this museum (which is actually three Dallas museums combined into one) you’ll find all kinds of exhibits on dinosaurs, cadavers, robotics, sports and much more.

West of the heart of Dallas is the Bishop Arts District which a decade ago was a forgotten part of town until it was remodeled into a funky mix of artists, shops and cafes. One of the can’t-miss shops is Wild Detective, a coffee shop/book store/bar in an old house where coffee, community and creativity come together for the perfect mid-day pick-me-up.  And men, you can say “bye bye” to boutiques with a trip to Mantiques, an antique store for the manly man, with items like stuffed albino cobras, spears, swords and shark teeth…?  Enjoy a complementary Lone Star Beer while you peruse. And of course, every trip must include Dude, Sweet Chocolate – which is exactly what you’ll be saying after you try Chef Catherine’s creations. She serves all kinds of unique guilty pleasures from flower child (an earl grey tea flavored chocolate) to chocolate salami (her specialty mix of chocolate, dates and nuts).

FOOD

When you get hungry in the Big D, head east to Deep Ellum for one of the best BBQ joints in Texas: Pecan Lodge. You may have to wait in line, but the juicy, flavorful ‘que will be well worth it. They even have a meal that’s as big as Dallas, itself, “The Trough” — a BBQ sampler serving 4-5 folks (or just one extremely hungry Texan). And in the heart of this big city is Chicken Scratch, a courtyard restaurant surrounded by reclaimed storage containers whose specialty is a modern version of the classic Chicken Biscuit. These behemoths contain crispy fried chicken, fresh cured bacon and scratch-made sauces layered into one sandwich. Be sure to stop at the Foundry Bar next door which has live music and outdoor games to help you kick back after a day on the town.

OUTDOORS

Dallas is home to spectacular skyscrapers and beautiful nature scenes, and the best way to see both is on the Continental Avenue Pedestrian Bridge which overlooks the Trinity River. This bridge is complete with an urban biking trail, rock climbing walls and the perfect view of the Dallas skyline in the distance.

To get up close and personal with the Trinity River, you don’t even have to leave the city. You can head to the Trinity Skyline Trails for an afternoon hike or bike that winds around the city and next to the river. If you need a bike, Red Star Bicycles is the place for you. There, you can buy hardcore bikes that are decked out in spikes and skeletons, or you can settle for renting a regular bikes if spikes aren’t your thing.

San Angelo, TX

Sitting near the doorway to the West, this Texas town is brimming with history, sheep and food. And whether you pronounce it SNAN-gelo, Angelo or – as it looks – San Angelo, you’re bound to enjoy your stay in this Wild West frontier. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD, CLICK HERE.

CULTURE

Since San Angelo is known as the “Wool and Mohair Capital of the World,” you (or rather “ewe”) will want to check out the Sheep Statues scattered all across the city. Don’t be baah-shful, get a picture with the “Gold Rush” Sheep or the “Coat of Many Colors” Sheep.

To truly travel back to the frontier days, tour the historic Fort Concho, the place that started it all.  The fort’s cramped soldiers’ barracks and stately officers’ quarters paint a picture of life on the frontier. And if you’re dying to spend a night like a Texas soldier, the fort will even let you stay the night in the Officer’s Quarters.  To learn more about the women of the Wild West, visit Miss Hattie’s Bordello Museum. The dim lighting and original furniture of this authentic Texas bordello will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time 100 years ago to the most famous bordello west of the Colorado River. Legend has it that a secret tunnel under Miss Hattie’s Restaurant and Cathouse Lounge lead to the bordello during its early days.

Out of the murky waters of the Concho River comes the legendary Concho Pearl, a rarity that is valued for its shimmery pink and purple hue. Mark Priest’s Legend Jewelers uses the pearls to create a unique piece of jewelry for each customer. Stop in and see Texas pearls worth over $250,000.

FOOD

In such a booming town, you’ll need an equally powerful meal to start your day. Donutopia is a sugary wonderland where you can eat dessert for breakfast. Their doughnut creations come doused in syrup, frosted with whipped cream and sprinkled with bacon.  You can even get a bacon-cheeseburger doughnut or doughnut breakfast sandwich.  Talk about the breakfast of champions.

For live music and craft beers, head to Concho Pearl Icehouse and dine on their “Texas eclectic” cuisine. Try the Cowboy “Sushi” which is brisket rolled in sliced tortillas and drizzled with barbecue sauce or the deep-fried avocados stuffed with pecan-smoked brisket. The best part is that they’ve got a playground for the kids while you kick back a cold one.

OUTDOOR

Explore the wild frontier and take in that West Texas air on one of the many trails at San Angelo State Park. The brushy land surrounding miles of rugged trails make it a great place for mountain biking. Just be careful – you’re in the middle of real nature so everything sticks, pokes or stings.  AKA – don’t fall off your bike.  For a more artsy nature walk, meander through countless sculptures and public art installations along the Concho River Trail.

Sulphur Springs, TX

Back in the day, it was the natural springs that brought travelers to town. Sadly, those springs have dried up, but fortunately the town still flows with things to do. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD, CLICK HERE.

CULTURE

When you first arrive, head toward the action on the Sulphur Springs Town Square (which is actually a pentagon. Ha!). Smack in the middle, you’ll find the Hopkins County Courthouse. Constructed in 1884, the Romanesque revival architecture makes this building one of the finest courthouses in Texas. On the Town Square’s grassy lawn you can lounge, play chess or visit the Hopkins County Veterans Memorial. They also boast the prettiest glass public toilets you’ve ever seen. Part art, mostly functioning restroom, the stall has a two-way mirror, so you can enjoy the outside show while you attend to your private matters, and no one can see you inside. Got Milk? Sulphur Springs does, and you’re sure to have the “dairy” best time at the Southwest Dairy Museum learning about the history of the dairy industry and the process of making milk. You can even test your milking skills on the mechanical cow or grab an ice cream at the soda fountain! Another must-see stop  is the Leo St. Clair Music Box Collection. This collection of over 150 music boxes includes sculptures you’d never expect to find like a lacy gun and a stubborn donkey. And the best part is that all of them still play music! You’ll find this Texas curiosity tucked away in the Sulphur Springs Library.

OUTDOOR

If you know bass fishing, then you know Lake Fork. Twenty minutes outside of town, this 39-mile lake is full of Texas-sized bass. The largest fish caught in its waters weighed 18.18 pounds and remains the Texas record! So grab your buddies and have the ultimate battle to see who can catch the most behemoth bass.  There are lots of friendly local guides, and we highly recommend Mike McFarland who can show you all the tricks. And thankfully, if you reel in more branches than bass, you can try fishing for Black and White Crappie, Sunfish, or any of the other legendary species that live here.

FOOD

You’ll find a variety of tasty foods in the heart of Sulphur Springs, hit up Lou Viney’s Restaurant and Pub just off the square. Don’t let Viney’s Blues playing Frogs fool you, this restaurant offers a wide range of homemade food like Buffalo Chicken Nachos and Black Bean Burger Wraps.  I’d go for the mascot-themed “wildcat” cheese steak stuffed with fries. It’s made-from-scratch food with a small town pub feel. No luck on the lake? Don’t worry, there’s plenty of fish to chow down on around the lake including at AJ’s Fish House in nearby Alba, TX. It’s an all-you-can-eat fried feast. So forget about your diet, slip on your comfiest pair of pants and devour mountains of cornmeal battered catfish, chicken and shrimp to your stomach’s content.

Balmorhea, TX

When the Texas heat is blaring, there’s nothing better than diving into a cool, blue swimming hole – and that’s exactly what you’ll find in Balmorhea. At first look, this way-out-west Texas town may seem like a barren desert, it’s actually full of surprises. Explore the town and you might just find exotic fish, gourmet gas stations and legendary gangsters. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD, CLICK HERE.

OUTDOORS

Hiking through a dry desert in the Texas heat will make you long for some clear, fresh water, and luckily among the Balmorhea cactus and rocks exists a natural spring: San Solomon Springs in Balmorhea State Park. A chilling 72 degrees, this spring is sure to cool off any day in the sun. You can also perfect your cannon ball and belly-flop on the 300 ft. high diving board (that’s just an estimate BTW!).  While you’re splashing around, be sure and say “hello” to the Comanche Springs Pupfish.  This stripped wonder can only be found in San Solomon Springs’ natural blue waters. If you are looking for a way to get up close and personal with the Pupfish and her neighbors, make sure to bring your snorkel.  Or you can head across the street to the Toyahvale Desert Oasis where Darryl and Neta will lend you all the SCUBA essentials. While swimming under the peaceful waters of the spring, don’t be surprised if a Texas Spiny Softshell Turtle waves at you as he jets by. If you’re still feeling parched, you can wade in the waters of Lake Balmorhea, a lake in the middle of the desert with the Davis Mountains for a backdrop. You might just find time slows down as you lay out on the dock admiring the beauty of Texas.

Balmorhea is more than just its beautiful water, it is also home to the famous “Balmorhea Blue” Agate as the whole area was once covered with volcanoes leaving these exotic rocks scattered across the ground. Just like a Tex-ified Easter egg hunt, you can go rock hunting and gather up as many as you can hold. Just a tip….be sure to grab a pro rock hunter like Sue from Balmorhea Rock Shop so you don’t end up with a bag full of worthless pebbles like I did…  And definitely check out her shop while in town.

CULTURE

Just like its beautiful spring in the middle of the desert, Balmorhea is filled with history you might not expect.  Many people find the secluded town the perfect hideaway, and this has been true for years. A few miles west of the town, you will come upon the remains of Phantom Lake Camp, a 1930’s tourist destination that once thrived on travelers looking for a place to stay. In 1933, one of these tourists was none other than Chicago gangster John Herbert Dillinger, who drove all the way to Texas to disappear after a string of robberies. Rumor has it, he may still be around… 😉  Outside of town, you’ll also find Calera Chapel, an old western mission established over 100 years ago. Built in honor of Father Nicolas Brocardus, the Calera Foundation has renovated this one-room church so it still serves the community today. This chapel is an amazing example of Texas faith.

FOOD

While in town, you’ll discover that Balmorhea is actually a Mexican food paradise of your dreams. If you’re craving a quick fix, stop in at Juan Carrasco Mercantile for their historic homemade burritos, straight out of the refrigerator.  The Green Chile burrito will burn your mouth, but it’s so good, you won’t miss your taste buds one bit. It’s also a gas station, so you can fill up more than just your stomach. If homemade West Texas Mexican food is what your heart desires, then try Cueva de Oso (or as the locals say “Bear Den”). They’ll serve you some delicious dinner just like your mama used to make – that is if your mama made enchilada sauce and tortillas from scratch.  Don’t miss the “tacos a la parilla.”

Thenew-svg-logoIs Brought To You By

arcacontinental
rudys
georgetown
don
texas
Karbach Lager Logo TexasShape Red