Archives: Daytrips

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.”

Blanco, TX

nco State ParkBlanco is that little town in the Hill Country that you could drive through in 5 minutes, or spend a week exploring.  Those that are in the know travel here to spend a day or longer diving into the history, blue water, and food.  To download the episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.

CULTURE

The first thing most notice when they visit Blanco is the Old Blanco County Courthouse which was built in 1886.  While it looks very official, it only served as the county courthouse for 4 years, because in 1890 the authorities moved the county seat 14 miles up the road to Johnson City.  Today this old building serves as a museum, a gathering place, and a movie set.  If you walk upstairs into the courtroom, you can feel the presence of Rooster Cogburn (aka Jeff Bridges) from the 2010 film “True Grit.”

If you love movie history or just history in general, then you’ll want to head to the Blanco Buggy Barn Museum which showcases over 100 different buggies from around the globe.  Many of the buggies have been used in films such as “Gone With the Wind,” “There Will Be Blood,” and “Abe Lincoln: Vampire Hunter.”  It’s amazing to look at how the technology progressed during the era of horse-drawn transportation.  If you arrange it early, the owners will take you on a buggy ride around town.

Blanco’s biggest modern-day contribution to Texas culture is to the growing Texas craft beer scene.  If you’re into craft beer, then you’ve heard of Real Ale Brewing, or at least Firemans #4, it’s most popular variety.  Many don’t realize that it’s brewed down a dirt road in the heart of Blanco.  They offer great tours of their facilities and brewing processes on weekends but even if you don’t take a tour, you can visit their tasting room and sample one (or more) of their dozen or so brews.  I highly recommend sampling some of their barrel-aged “Mysterium” series, where they let beer sit in wine and whiskey barrels.  It comes out completely different.

If you’re more into Texas wildflowers than Texas beer, then you’ll be happy to know that Blanco is the “Lavender Capital of Texas” and during the summer months, you can visit lavender fields to pick your own puffs of the purple stuff.  I highly recommend Hill Country Lavender.  Not only do they offer a really great picking experience, but they also sell all of their lavender products on site, so you can stock up on sleep-inducing and bug-repelling lotions, creams, and soaps.

Lastly, there’s a hill country tradition that exists ONLY in a number of small German communities across Texas.  It’s 9-pin bowling, and is done in private bowling clubs.  It’s different than traditional 10-pin bowling in that the pins are set up in a diamond and bowlers get extra points if they leave the middle one standing.  It’s very fun but hard for an outsider to experience. UNLESS – you are in Blanco on a Saturday night, when the Blanco Bowling Club is open to the public.  Make sure to call ahead and let them know you are coming, as they’ll need to make sure a pin-setter is on site.  This is such a rare game that there are NO machines to do the work, so high schoolers earn extra cash setting up pins after folks knock ’em down.

FOOD

No trip to Blanco would be complete without a trip to the Redbud Cafe on the square.  This local favorite mixes fresh sandwiches, baked cookies, and craft beer to become the most charming cafe-bakery-bar combo in Texas.  They make perhaps the best reuben sandwich I’ve ever had, and in the winter they make amazing potato chip cookies.  Seriously, try them.

If you’re in the mood for Bar-B-Q, then make your way to Old 300 BBQ.  This is a very Texas kind of joint smoking up brisket, sausage, ribs, pork loin, and more over live oak wood.  You’ll love it.  If you’re in town on a Saturday, you can sample their special “Akaushi” beef brisket made from an amazing flavorful and rare bovine breed.

OUTDOORS

The biggest outdoor attraction of Blanco is definitely the Blanco River where folks do everything from swim to paddle to fish, and just generally relax beside the calming blue water.  The river flows right through the middle of town where you’ll find Blanco State Park – the best place to jump into the Blanco.

Alpine, TX

All the towns in the Big Bend region possess a sort of funky, off-the-grid energy, but Alpine is the only one that mixes this independent spirit with a sizable and thriving city – which is why it’s known as the “Hub of the Big Bend.”  To purchase this episode, please CLICK HERE.

CULTURE

The spirit of this region can hardly be captured within the walls of a museum, but the Museum of the Big Bend does a mighty fine job covering the breadth and depth of the history of the “Big Bend.”  Inside you’ll see everything from dinosaur bones to wild west revolvers.  Don’t miss the wing bones of “Quetzalcoatl” which was the largest flying reptile ever and it inhabited this region of Texas.  This museum is on the campus of Sul Ross State University, which you’ll want to explore a bit.  Don’t miss Kokernot Field which is a little over a mile away and was built in the 1940’s by a wealthy rancher and modeled after Wrigley Field in Chicago.  Today it’s the home field for the Sul Ross Lobos baseball team and minor league Alpine Cowboys. If you’re looking for the full western experience, then stop into the Big Bend Saddlery and get a taste of what real Texas cowboys need to do their job.  If you’re inspired to become a real cowboy yourself, then mosey back to Spradley Hats and meet Jim Spradley a custom hatter who makes some of the finest head ware in all of Texas.  His hats are so desired, he currently has a 12 month wait list!

FOOD

There are no restaurants more famous in this part of Texas than Reata Steakhouse.  Named after the ranch in the 1956 classic movie “Giant,” this place turns out some of the finest red meat on earth from inside an old adobe home.  Adding to its lore is the fact that its other location is in downtown Fort Worth, but this is the original and should be on ever steak-lovers list. If you’re looking for something completely different, head to Cow Dog, a local food truck parked outside of a coffee shop/laundromat called PLAINE (get it – “alpine” mixed up).  This food truck takes the all-american hot dog to every part of the world by topping it with things like lime cilantro mayo to red curry.  I had one with apricot chutney and sharp cheddar, and it was amazing! For an afternoon treat to beat the heat, cross the tracks to the Murphy Street Raspa Company, where you’ll find mexican-style snow-cones that will blow your mind.  Of course they have all the traditional flavors, but you can mix things up like a local by adding chile powder, Chamoy, or a pickle juice.

OUTDOORS

When folks think about the outdoors in West Texas, many think immediately about Big Bend National Park which is about an hour from Alpine.  While this park is amazing, there are ways to enjoy the outdoors without leaving town.  Start by setting off on a journey to the top of Hancock Hill.  You’ll leave from a path just behind Sul Ross campus and head up to an outdoor classroom that gives new meaning to the term “Higher Education.”  Sometime in the 1980’s a group of students drug a desk to the top of a mountain creating a classroom with a view.  Since that time, Hancock Hill has attracted a cult following and numerous visitors who have made the trek up to sign the old books and get educated on things that don’t fit within the confines of a normal classroom. If you want to go really far back in history, head west of town to drive through the Paisano Pass Volcano, a prehistoric volcano that erupted over 30 million years ago leaving tons of rock formations to enjoy.  A few miles outside of a town, you’ll see a roadside park that contains an informational panel all about it.

Granbury, TX

There’s something special about this North Texas town.  Maybe it’s the history and iconic town square.  Maybe it’s the lake right in the middle of town.  Or maybe it’s the friendly folks on every corner.  Either way, there’s tons of trippin’ to be had in Granbury.  To download this episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.

The spirit of Granbury revolves around its historic square where you’ll find lots of restaurants, shops, and bars awaiting eager trippers.  Make sure you peak into the Hood County Courthouse which has been beautifully restored and still has a hand-wound clock from the 1800’s sitting in its tower. They call Granbury the “Town Where History Lives” but it might be more appropriate to call it the “Town Where History Dies” because some its most colorful characters have passed on; some leaving their bodies behind.  This includes John Wilkes Booth, the assassin of President Lincoln, who supposedly fled to Granbury and lived under the alias John St. Helen.  The Nutshell Bakery is the best place start investigating this unsolved mystery.  Another mystery surrounds the grave of Jesse James in the Granbury Cemetery where it’s rumored the infamous outlaw is buried after faking his death and moving to Granbury to skirt the law.  Finally, one character who’s definitely buried in town is Elizabeth Crockett, the wife of Alamo hero Davy Crockett.  You can visit her grave and see a sculpture of her standing on top looking West to await her love coming home from San Antonio.  She is so revered that at one point her grave was the smallest state park in Texas.

FOOD

When you get hungry, you can find lots of good eats on the square.  For tasty treats head to the Nutshell Eatery and Bakery.  But if you’re looking for a different sort of dining experience, head to Ketzler’s Schnitzel Haus and Bier Garten.  Here you’ll find a quaint restaurant and outdoor patio that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to the motherland.  There are some amazing German beers and one of the best, most-authentic schnitzels in Texas.  Prost! If you’re away from the square, or enjoying the lake, then stopping by Stumpy’s is mandatory.  This marina serves up some of the best burgers and tacos in town.  You can fill up the boat, rent a jet ski, or just sit around in the Texas sun sipping a cold one and feeding the fish.  Your choice. If you’re a lover of hand crafted food and you love cheese, then head west of town to Lipan, TX to visit Eagle Mountain Farmhouse Cheese.  This small trappist-style operation makes some of the most amazing cheese in Texas.  They offer tours and tastings and have many different kinds of cheese, but it’s all gouda!  (haha, see what I did there…).

OUTDOORS

Granbury is amazing in that the entire city revolves around the beautiful Lake Granbury.  If you aren’t renting a water craft or bringing your own, then you need to head to City Beach.  This white-sand beach is blocks from the square and will likely be full of folks doing everything from playing frisbee to grilling fajitas.  There’s also a kayak and SUP board outfitter on site to rent self-powered watercraft.

Rockport-Fulton, TX

While “Rockport” and “Fulton” are technically two separate towns, together they pack a coastal combo punch unlike anything else in Texas.  Both face the beautiful, brackish water of Aransas Bay and make the perfect place to dive into the food, culture, and history of the Texas coast.  To download this episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.

OUTDOORS

If you’re in this part of Texas you’re probably looking for some salty fun.  While this city faces the bay and not the Gulf of Mexico, Rockport Beach Park makes an awesome place for a dip.  It’s especially great for kids as it’s sandy, shallow, and without the pummeling waves of the coast.  For fishing, you can’t go wrong dropping a line in the water anywhere in town, but one of the most popular spots is Copano Bay Fishing Pier, which is the old bridge that’s been converted into a half-mile pier spanning the length of Copano Bay.

Wildlife is also a big draw in the area.  If you are going coastal in the colder months, you’ll have a chance to travel to Aransas Bay National Wildlife Refuge to see some feathered winter Texans – the endangered whopping cranes.  This is the largest bird in North America of which there are only about 300 left in the wild.  They come to Texas every winter to munch on blue crabs and train their young.  Hop aboard a tour with Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures and you’ll have the best shot at snapping some priceless pictures.

Another great place to enjoy the outdoors and one seriously HUGE local resident is across the bay at Goose Island State Park.  This is the home of “Big Tree” a 1000-year old coastal live oak whose truck is 35 feet around and branches span out an impressive 90-feet wide.  It awesome to stand before a living thing that was around 500 years before explorers arrived in the New World.  Other attractions of Goose Island State Park include birding, RVing, and enjoying “Stinky Beach,” which is seriously smelly due to dead sea grass that washes ashore.

FOOD

You know you’ll be craving fresh seafood, and this town has some of the best in Texas.  For an AMAZING po-boy, find Alby’s Seafood, a mom-and-pop seafood market with a small carry-out window on the side serving up fried oyster and shrimp po-boys.  You can dine on one of their picnic tables or carry it to Fulton Harbor and eat just feet from the water.

For stepped-up, casual seafood, you can’t go wrong with Charlotte Plummer’s, a local institution that’s located in a building that’s been serving fresh seafood for over 100 years.  They are famous for their “crab tower” which is a 6-inch tall tower of lump crab meat, pico de gallo, and avocado, topped with a creamy sauce.  DELICIOUS!  Make sure to check out the blackboard where the owner posts the freshest fish of the day that you can have prepared any number of ways.

CULTURE

The Texas coast has a vibe and history all its own.  It’s culture covers everything from the historic homes to the dive bars to the harbor bait stands.  You can also find it on Rockport’s Historic Main Street that’s full of shops and restaurants.  Grab a coffee from the Daily Grind, read a book at Lori’s Book Nook, enjoy the photos at John Martell Photography, or pick up a kitschy souvenir at Treasure Islander.  Because you know you need another coconut pirate head.

As for museums, you’ll find a fantastic aquarium full of local fish and hands-on activities at the Aquarium at Rockport Harbor.  Say “howdy” to Marley the Moray Eel who’s a celebrity in these parts.

 

Austin, TX – East Side

No matter what direction you head in Austin, you’re sure to find tons to see, eat, and do.  However the funkiest part of town lies east of I-35 where the past, present, and future of Texas’s capital city mix into one tasty trip.  To download this episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.

FOOD

When you kick your trip off early, you’ll need some caffeine.  There are number of awesome coffee joints around, but I recommend stopping by Cuvee Coffee Bar to have a glass of its signature “nitro cold brew.”  This creative concoction pours off the draft like a Guinness Beer, but goes down smooth like coffee. For red meat there are a number of tasty establishments.  But if you’re in the mood for some meaty experimentation, head to Salt & Time.  This local butcher shop makes its own charcuterie with homemade cured meats like salami, prosciutto, and sausage.  Grab a butcher board, a local beer, and send your taste buds on a ride. Across the East Side you’ll notice food trucks on almost every corner.  One of the tastiest is Thai-Kun, bringing Thai street food to Texas.  It was ranked by Bon Appetit magazine as one of the top 10 new restaurants in America in 2014 – and it’s a restaurant on wheels!  The food here packs a flavorful punch and I’m still dreaming about the waterfall pork.

CULTURE

While many complain that Austin is loosing its signature “weirdness,” it is still present if you know where to look.  Start at the Museum of Natural and Artificial Ephemerata.  This collection of curiosities is sure to make you scratch your head and includes the last cigarette smoked by Marilyn Monroe, Willie’s hair, and a spoon bent by the mind of a child.  My brain still hurts.

One of the most peaceful parks in East Austin is also one of the most overlooked.  It’s the Texas State Cemetery.  I know hanging out with dead folks isn’t on most to-do lists, but this cemetery is a must-do.  Buried on this hallowed ground are numerous Texans who made Texas what it is today, including Stephen F. Austin himself.  There are Texas Rangers (e.g. Bigfoot Wallace), Athletes (e.g. Darrell K. Royal), Governors (e.g. John Connally), artists (e.g. James Michener) and trailblazers (e.g. Barbara Jordan).  The names go on and on and deserve at least a moment of your respect as you pass through town.  If you’re in the mood for history, head to the French Legation Museum.  This is the oldest house in Austin still at its original location and was built in the 1830’s as the french embassy to the sovereign nation of Texas.  It gives a unique glimpse into French life on the Texas frontier.

OUTDOORS

If you’re in need of an urban retreat, there are a number of parks that can make you feel miles away even though you’re right in the mix.  One of these is McKinney Falls State Park near the airport, and next to it, you’ll find the MYLO Obstacle Fitness.  Remember that time you watched American Ninja Warrior and thought – “I could do that.”  Well, this is your chance to try.  This outdoor gym was designed for folks training for obstacle races (think Tough Mudder or Spartan Race) and includes high ropes activities, climbing walls, and even a javelin throw.  Day passes are available making it the perfect place to test your chops.

Devils River

If you’re looking for a day trip packed with museums, restaurants, and shopping, then stay away from the Devils River.  However, if you’re looking for an adventure surrounded by nothing but God’s green earth that’s totally off the grid, then a paddling trip down the Devils River might be exactly what you need. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.

This wild, West Texas river snakes its way through some of the roughest country in Texas.  It starts in the middle of the desert, and eventually winds its way into Lake Amistad along the Rio Grande and very close to the city of Del Rio.  The water is an amazing turquoise blue, but don’t let its beauty deceive you.  Behind its alluring façade is a myriad of toils and travails.  Waterfalls, rapids, snakes, scorpions, and flash floods – not to mention VERY protective land owners that would rather not have you paddling through their giant backyard.  Just make sure you know the rules and come prepared to face anything the river may throw at you. Start your trip by contacting Texas Parks and Wildlife to get a list of the rules and a permit.  The rules are too long to list here, but the most important one is that you stay within the riverbed and respect private property.  You don’t want to anger the land owners that keep this river so pristine. Next, I recommend finding an outfitter.  There are a number of fishing guides that can set you up on a very nice trip.  For for the DIY types, I HIGHLY recommend Amistad Expeditions.  They can not only rent you a boat, but also give you a shuttle and valuable insight into the river.  Check TPWD’s website for a list of other recommended guides. You’ll then need to figure out what part of the river you want to paddle.  The most popular runs are (1) from Baker’s Crossing to the State Park’s South “Big Satan” unit, or (2) the shorter run from the State Park’s North “Del Norte” unit down to “Big Satan.”  Be warned that the stretch from Baker’s to Del Norte can be super low, meaning you’ll be dragging your boat a lot.  Until water levels rise, I’d stick to option 2.  Also be advised that the “Big Satan” unit is closed to the public, but open to approved guides taking paddlers off the river.  This is another reason you’ll want to stick with one of the guides on TPWD’s website.  Paddling below “Big Satan” is tough as the river widens going into the lake and the strong canyon headwinds can be brutal. As you paddle down the river, there are a number of amazing sites and things to do.  The fishing on Devils River is epic, especially for largemouth and small mouth bass.  So make sure you have a license and a fishing pole.  Also, the Dolan Falls waterfall is an amazing natural wonder and super-cool swimming hole.  Just be careful, as it’s owned by the Nature Conservancy.  So, enjoy, but respect too.  Finally, don’t miss the prehistoric pictographs on some of the cave walls.  The best one that can be appreciated from the riverbed is on Turkey Bluff and depicts a coyote chasing a turkey…a storyline that predates Wylie Coyote by some 4,000 years. The most important thing you must remember is that the Devils River is the most pristine river in Texas for a reason.  It is heavily guarded by both the public and private entities that watch over its water.  Rivers are meant for public enjoyment, but everyone must be respectful of the land and water.  After all, it’s the river’s beauty that draws you out here, so don’t mess it up now.

Tomball, TX

While the lights of Houston shine brightly, don’t let them outshine this small Texas town just 30 miles north.  While it’s had a number of names over the years (Peck, TX; Oil Town USA), today it’s named after the man responsible for bringing the railroad to this rural community.  A man named Thomas Henry Ball – aka Tom Ball.  If you visit, you’ll find a growing city that’s still connected to its historic past. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.

CULTURE

If you’re looking for the history of town, there are two primary places to see.  The first is the renovated Railroad Depot.  It sits just a stone’s throw from Main Street right on the tracks and takes visitors to the time when the railroad was king.  Suddenly this outlying community was connected to the rest of the world and began to boom.  The next museum you need to see is the Tomball Museum Center.  Rather than one building packed with stuff, this is a collection of historic buildings each filled with artifacts giving visitors a glimpse into an era of Tomball’s history.  There is a log cabin, a schoolhouse, a church, and many more.  My favorite is the 1940’s oil camp house commemorating the discovery of oil in Tomball which made this city’s population triple in a few short years.

The most popular weekend activity in Tomball is definitely antique shopping.  There too many to list.  Swing a stick and you’ll hit one.  Whatever you do, don’t miss Bob’s Wild West, a small shop packed with antique guns and things killed with guns.  You’ll find spurs, knives, and a small Texas Ranger Hall of Fame containing a pistol at the shoot out of Bonnie and Clyde.

If you want to step into a flying museum, then contact the Commemorative Air Force Gulf Coast Wing to see “Texas Raiders” a restored B-17 Flying Fortress.  Multiple times a year, they take this gal up in the sky giving riders a once in a lifetime experience.

FOOD

When you’ve worked up a giant appetite, Tomball has a number of giant options.  For Texas tea room that’s nothing like a grandma-inspired tea party, head to The Whistle Stop Tea Room.  Here you’ll find amazing sandwiches (jalapeno pimento cheese anyone?), homemade soups, and a dessert case that’s worth the stop alone.  For country cookin’ with a Texas-sized competition, head to Mel’s Country Cafe.  It sits out in the country, but that doesn’t stop folks from lining up to partake in the goodness.  Both the chicken-fried steak and hamburger are considered the tops by Texas Monthly.  But the burger that tops them all is the Mega Mel.  A behemoth of meat, cheese, and bacon.   It you can eat it in two hours, you get immortal glory on the wall…and a T-shirt.

OUTDOORS

Tomball has a number of great city parks.  Spring Creek Park is massive with tall pines and open fields for playing frisbee or having a picnic.  In the back corner, you’ll also find a historic marker for a Confederate gun powder mill that exploded on this site killing everyone inside.  It left a crater so big that when it filled with rainwater it became a popular swimming hole that many say is haunted.  Another important park down the way is New Kentucky Park, the site of Sam Houston’s famous “fork in the road.”  During the Texas Revolution, he had to make a decision, turn left and run for safety in Louisiana or turn right and face the Mexican Army.  Sam took a right and headed toward San Jacinto…the rest, my friends, is history.

Schulenburg, TX

In German, the word “shul” means school and the word “burg” means town. For this day trip, “Schulenburg” means painted churches, model airplane museums, and homemade German sausage and schnitzel. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.

CULTURE

This area of Texas is best know of its rich German and Czech heritage.  When these settlers immigrated to Fayette County in the 1800’s, they brought their culture, food, and faith.  In the spirit of the deep traditions of the motherland, they built amazing churches that rival the cathedrals of Europe – known today as the “Painted Churches.”  From the outside, they look like ordinary country churches, but inside you’ll find ornate altars, intricately painted frescoes, and details that make you feel as if you’re standing in Old World Europe.  Saint Mary’s Catholic Church of High Hill is considered the “Queen of the Painted Churches.”  One step inside and you’ll understand why.  St. John the Baptist Church in Ammansville is known as the “pink one,” as least inside.  And Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church gives visitors a quaint view religious life, but still in painted church glory.

Another important part of German and Czech heritage is indeed music, specifically POLKA!  Downtown on Schulenberg’s main street you’ll find the Texas Polka Music Museum.   It’s full of instruments, pictures, outfits, and a map showing every polka band in the Lone Star State.  If you’re feet aren’t tapping by the time you leave, “czech” your pulse.  For some real dancing, heading to Sengelmann Hall on Wednesday nights or other special occasions.  More on this venue down in the “food” section.

Another museum not to be missed is the Stanzel Model Aircraft Museum honoring the Stanzel family and their rise to becoming one of the top model aircraft brands in the world.  Their iconic “Tiger Shark” is even in the model aircraft hall of fame.  This well-done museum is full of models, maps, and information on how “control-line” model airplanes work.  I highly recommend it.

FOOD

You can bet your lederhosen that if I’m in a German community, I’m going to eat some German sausage.  To do that, head to City Meat Market, owned by the Smrkovsky family, so you know it is legit.  These guys make about a dozen varieties of their own sausage ranging for traditional beef and pork, to venison, to good old-fashioned weiners.  Better yet – they smoke them and prep them for eatin’.  I recommend a sausage plate or a homemade chili dog with one of their classic weiners.

Now, if you’re looking for schnitzel, then head to Momma’s at Sengelmann Hall.  This dance hall and restaurant was built in the 1894 and still operates today.  There were decades when it was converted to a hardware store, but a lot of hard work and cold hard cash has returned it to its original glory.  Ask about the ghosts….if you dare.

Finally, if you’re looking for a snack, the Potter Country Store has all the pecans you could every desire.  Harvested from their own trees, the Potters turn their raw product into pies, pralines, candies, and fudge.  The candied pecans are amazing, and can even be picked up warm to go.  Oh, word to the wise, if you ask for a “Pee-Can”, they’ll point you to the bathroom.  These are “Puh-kahns.”

Monahans, TX

It’s been called “Texas’s Largest Beach Without an Ocean.”  That’s true!  But it’s also a rugged West Texas town that sits atop a massive dune field that reaches deep into New Mexico.  But those that travel here will find much more than just sand. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.

FOOD

The town and surrounding area are full of country cafes and awesome Tex-Mex establishments.  One of my favorites is Pappy’s Bar-B-Q.  This place is smoking tasty meats over mesquite and has even make it to the Texas Monthly Top 50.  While I’m not usually one to recommend it – don’t miss the chicken.  For a culinary oasis in the desert, head to the the Jazz Cafe.  Sitting inside of a renovated theater, this place offers big city class and flavor at small town prices.  Steaks are handcut, pasta plates are delicious, and you won’t go wrong order any of their daily specials.

CULTURE

If you’re looking for a history lesson on Monahans or Ward County, head to the Million Barrel Museum (re-branding soon to the Ward County Museum).  This collection of historic buildings and artifacts is built around a concrete pit that could once hold a MILLION barrels of oil.  It also houses the Rattlesnake Bomber Base Museum all about the WW2 era training facility that used to be in nearby Pyote, TX teaching B-17 and B-29 pilots of the 1940’s.

Another museum not to be missed is the Roy Orbison Museum in Wink.  The famed rock-and-roll musician called this town home before he hit the big time with hits like “Pretty Woman” and “Only the Lonely.”  You can see relics of Roy’s childhood and even touch his last pair of prescription sunglasses.

OUTDOORS/ADVENTURE

By far the most popular thing to do in town is visit Monahans Sandhills State Park.  It’s just east of town, but feels like it’s east of the Atlantic Ocean somewhere in the middle of the Sahara Desert.  You can hike over the wind-swept dunes, or check-out a sled from the front office and ride them to your heart’s delight.

For those with their own mode of transportation, head up to Kermit Texas to cruise the Dunes at Kermit.  This park offers a much different form of entertainment on the dunes letting visitors ride around on ATV’s, UTV’s, dirt bikes, and buggies.  But remember, it is BYOB (Bring Your Own Buggy).

Round Rock, TX

It isn’t called the “Sports Capital of Texas” for nothing.  Especially if you can make a sport out of eating, learning about history, or beekeeping. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.

FOOD

Let’s start with eating, and every day spent in Round Rock should start at Round Rock Donuts.  I’m not sure what yellowy-orangey-addictive material they put in these, but MAN is it good.  If you’re hungry – go for a “Texas Donut” the size of a spare tire.  And if your diet asks how many donuts you ate for breakfast, you can confidently say – ONE!

Another amazing spot is The Blind Squirrel Sandwiches.  When CIA-trained chef Jack Raia got out of the high-stress kitchen jobs of the big city, he decided to seek solace in the safety of the sandwich.  However, these sandwiches are by no means safe by common standards.  Each has its own delectable spin.  Try a “Paris, Texas” combining Texas and France in a confit of beef brisket.  Or a “Quacker” with tea-marinated duck on a fried flatbread.

CULTURE

To do something way out of the ordinary, head to Round Rock Honey and sign up for a beekeeping class.  You’ll learn all about these buzzing buddies and even get a chance to harvest honey straight from the hive.  If you aren’t up for a class, at least go for a honey tasting.  It’s amazing how many different flavors can happen when bees collect pollen from different plants.

For some history, head downtown to Main Street.  This collection of historic buildings haven’t changed much in 100 years.  And that’s a good thing.  You can even retrace the final shootout of infamous outlaw Sam Bass.  If you’re looking for a scare, then there’s another road to visit – Hairy Man Road – which some say is haunted by the ghost of an old hermit who still doesn’t like people traveling through his claim.

Finally, for a truly American form of entertainment, head to The Dell Diamond to take in a Round Rock Express game.  This is the best minor league baseball experience in America.  There is a big hill for blankets, fireworks on Friday nights, and so much to do that you might actually forget you’re at a baseball game.  Don’t miss the Nolan Ryan Beef hot dogs.  I recommend a “Big Kahuna” complete with mango salsa.

OUTDOORS/ADVENTURE

To get sporty, all the locals head to Old Settlers Park.  This giant park is full of fields for everything from baseball, to football, to cricket, to kite flying.  There are bike paths and disc golf courses.  Another great spot is Brushy Creek Park, where you can see the literal ROUND ROCK after which the town got its name, and see the deep groves in the limestone from when wagons and stagecoaches used to forge the river.

Kingsville, TX

If the worth of a Tex-ified kingdom were valued in cattle, oil, and land, then the King Ranch is the most powerful kingdom our state has ever seen.  Dating back to the 1800’s, this ranch is almost as legendary as the Lone Star State itself.  Exploring the ranch and the nearby town of Kingsville makes for a really fun adventure.

The King Ranch measures 825,000 acres which totals some 1300 square miles.  That’s bigger than Rhode Island and roughly the size of Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio combined.  Conclusion – this place is HUGE.   The history of the ranch dates back to the 1800’s when Captain Richard King fell in love with the Santa Gertrudis creek and started purchasing the land around it for cattle operations.  In town, you’ll find the King Ranch Museum with articles like photos, vehicles, and saddles from the ranch’s long history.

To visit the ranch itself, all you have to do is head about 3 miles outside of town.  The most common way to explore the ranch is to hop on a bus tour which leaves from the visitor’s center and takes guests around the property pointing out historic places like the mansion, horse graveyard, and iconic stables.  You also make a stop at the Weaver’s Cottage to talk to a real “Kineno” cowboy descending from the Mexican families that followed Captain King to Texas when he was just getting started.  Those wishing for a deeper dive can also arrange for a private tour.

The King Ranch is much more than just cattle.  And just as rich as the human side to the ranch, is the natural side.  Accordingly, the ranch offers nature tours for folks seeking the “wild side” of the ranch.  Visitors are likely to see javelina, alligators, deer, and some of the ranch’s 300 species of birds.  If you’ve never seen a Green Jay in the wild, then you are missing out.  Folks literally come from all around the world to experience birding at the King Ranch, and you won’t be disappointed.

After you’ve seen a small portion of ranch life, head to Kingsville proper and explore the town that popped up after Henrietta King donated land to bring in the railroad.  The historic district is primarily one street bookended by the Kleburg County Courthouse and Henrietta King High School.  In the middle are a collection of businesses such as the King Ranch Saddle Shop where they handcraft amazing saddles and other leather goods bearing the “Running W” brand of the ranch.  There’s also Harrel’s Kingsville Pharmacy and Soda Fountain.  A great place to shop for knick-knacks, fill your prescription, or belly up to the bar for shakes, burgers, and homemade Mexican food.

If you’re looking for fresh seafood down here by the coast, then head about 20 miles down the road to Riviera, Texas and dine on the water at the King’s Inn.  This legendary seafood restaurant has been serving up amazing fare since the 30’s.  Start your meal with an avocado salad, and then order anything you want from their verbal menu.  Just make sure to get extra tartar sauce.  Trust me on this one.

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