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Natural Bridge, TX

While Natural Bridge isn’t a town, it is a great place to spend the day.  The two main attractions are Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch to feed the exotic species of this African safari in the middle of Texas.  This is your chance to feed a buffalo or a ostrich from the comfort of your car.  Make your next stop Natural Bridge Caverns to descend underground into the depths of Texas and see largest show cave in Texas.  Seriously, this is impressive.

For food, I recommend the burgers at the Wildlife Ranch cafe, but if you want to step away, dive into a Bracken Burger at the Bracken Store Cafe.

If you are ready to wash off, head north and dive into Canyon Lake.  Overlook Park offers the best swimming, but Comal Park is the place to take kids since it has a smooth pebble beach.  For food, head to Frank’s Bait and Tacos.  You’ll love it, just don’t order the bait taco.

Bryan-College Station, TX

If you aren’t an Aggie, you might consider a day trip to Aggieland worse than community service.  But believe it or not, there is more in College Station than just lots and lots of Aggies.  But if you are headed to Aggieland, you might as well make a stop by the campus of Texas A&M University to see Aggie traditions such as the Century Tree, the statue of Sullivan Ross, and Kyle Field.  On the north side of Kyle field, you’ll see the tombs of past Reveillies complete with private score board so that mascots past won’t miss a single touchdown.  While on campus, visit the George Bush Presidential Library.  George Bush 41 wasn’t an Aggie, but loved the Aggie tradition so much that he put his Presidential Library on campus.

And one thing every college town has is great grub.  College kids need to eat, and BCS provides.  Near campus, you might want to grab a burger and beer at the Dixie Chicken, the kind of establishment Aggie legends are made of, complete with full bar, dominos, and rattlesnake cage.  Or check out Laynes Chicken Fingers, a place so passionate about its golden fried chicken fingers that all it serves are chicken finger baskets and chicken finger sandwiches.  I also highly recommend grabbing a Snuffy burger at the Chicken Oil Company in Bryan (order it “Death” style if you want to dance with danger), and Mr. G’s Pizzeria in downtown Bryan serves up a mean calzone.

Lovers of class and other fine things might want to head to the renovated Downtown Bryan for some shopping and food, or to the Messina Hof Winery, one of the most-decorated in the state.

And finally, for outdoor lovers, Lake Bryan is a great place to go swimming, or to mountain bike along its 20 miles and miles of well-kept trails.

Wimberley, TX

This town calls itself “A Little Bit of Heaven”.  And the funny thing is – they may be right. Wimberley is an artist’s haven in the truest sense.  It must be the rolling hills that inspire the inner soul, but whatever it is, you’ll want to check it out.

CULTURE

Local artisans peddle their craft all around the Wimberley Town Square.  Outside of town, you can visit the very prominent artists behind Wimberley Glassworks. Not only can you peruse a gallery of breathtaking glass artworks like light fixtures and vases, but you can also watch glassblowing demonstrations to see how the pros do it.

If you are there during the summer time, there’s nothing better than capping off your day with a movie under the stars at the Corral Theater which shows current movies in an old horse corral. You can sit in the chairs at the theater or bring your own, either way, you’re bound to have the best seat in Texas as you enjoy the movie and the beautiful night sky at the same time.

There’s nothing better than cruising with the top down…well except cruising down one of the most scenic drives in Texas, the Devil’s Backbone on Highway 32. The route gets its name from the rolling hills and vertebrae-like rock outcroppings, but there’s really nothing devilish about it — it’s a heavenly view!

OUTDOORS

Wimberley boasts some of the most beautiful nature in the Hill Country. The best way to see a panoramic view of it all is at the top of Prayer Mountain (aka “Mount Baldy”). And if you’re not much of a mountain climber, don’t worry — it’s actually a mound with 218 stairs leading up the mountain to the “bald” rocky top where you can see the hilly Texas landscape for miles and miles.

To take in the work of the great Artist who created everything, take a dip in Blue Hole, one of Texas’s finest swimming holes. Just one look at the water and you’ll know why it’s called “Blue Hole.” And there’s even a rope swing so you can spend the afternoon just hanging around… (sorry, I had to!)

FOOD

All this art will leave you starving, so I highly recommend fixing that at Brewster’s Pizza (also home of the Wimberley Brewing Company) which is run by the Collie family from top to bottom.  What could be better than washing down a delicious slice of hand-tossed pizza with a ice cold pint of handcrafted beer? NOTHING!

You might also want to check out the INO’Z Brew and Chew to enjoy burgers outside by the creek or the Wimberley Pie Co. for some of the best pies in town. I suggest the Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie — it’s out of this world! You can find both restaurants in the town square area.  

Unfortunately, the Gourmet Tamale Kitchen featured in the episode has closed its doors.

 

Goliad, TX

We all “Remember the Alamo” but so few “Remember Goliad,” a town that was just as important in securing a Texan victory during the Texas Revolution.  Check out why it’s worth remembering.

The major historical sites in Goliad make this town worth remembering and well worth visiting.  Start at Presidio La Bahia, a spanish fort that became the location of the Goliad Massacre when Colonel Fannin and 341 other Texian men were executed within and surrounding the fort’s walls.  While in the area, also check out the Zaragoza House which was the birthplace of the Mexican hero of Cinco de Mayo.  And don’t miss Mission Espiritu Santo residing just down the road inside of Goliad State Park.  The mission will give you a history lesson on why Goliad is considered the “Birthplace of Texas Ranching.”

When you get hungry, I highly recommend stopping by Blue Quail Deli for a sandwich on homemade bread and a cup of their famous and award-winning Cream of Jalapeno Soup.  For home-cooking and a piece of pie, head to The Empresario Restaurant.  And for traditional and tasty Tex-Mex, dine at La Bahia Restaurant and Cantina just beyond the Presidio La Bahia.

To explore the great outdoors surrounding Goliad, take a trip down the Goliad Paddling Trail, a 6.6 mile stretch of the San Antonio River starting underneath Highway 59 and finishing up at Goliad State Park.  You’ll find one of the best rope swings in Texas underneath the iron railroad bridge.

South Padre Island, TX

If you thought this beautiful island town only existed for a couple weeks in March during Spring Break – think again. To download this episode or purchase it on DVD – CLICK HERE.

This beach community makes for one heck of a day trip (even longer if you’ve got the time).  Yes, there are lots of condos, beach shops, and bars to keep the college kids busy, but the rest of the year, South Padre Island is a relaxing oasis that rivals the best beach towns in America.  So, here’s what to do.

Sun and sand lovers have lots of options.  I would start by taking a sand castle lesson from Dennis Barrett, the Sand Slave himself.  CLICK HERE to set up a lesson.  On the beach side of S. Padre, I also recommend a surf lesson from South Padre Surf Company.  Turns out you don’t have to go to Cali to catch some waves.  On the bay side, take a snorkeling trip on the Southern Wave Catamaran.  You’ll be amazed how clear the water is, and you might even see a stingray.  If you prefer the wildlife above the water, check out the South Padre Birding and Nature Center.

When hungry, head to Pier 19 for breakfast.  Their shrimp omelette is one of the greatest breakfasts I’ve ever put in my mouth.  A more traditional, yet still delicious breakfast is at Ted’s.  For fried seafood, look no further than the island stalwart Dirty Al’s.  And when you need some food, drinks, and relaxation on the beach, Clayton’s is the place and boasts the “biggest beach bar in Texas.”

As the nightfalls, if you have an strength (and courage) left, head to the Gravity Adventure Park which bungee jumping, go-carts for adults and kids, as well as my favorite – the REVERSE bungee.  You gotta try it to believe it.

HOTELS OF CHOICE – Clayton’s Resort for a vintage beach front hotel and Inverness for a beach-front, family friendly condo with kitchen and lots of sleeping room.

Galveston, TX

Galveston is the the most historic island in Texas and makes for an epic day trip adventure.

When you cross over the Galveston Bay, whether by car or ferry, you’re sure to be hungry when you get here. My favorite spots on the island are Shrimp & Stuff for a mean shrimp po-boy and Benno’s on the Beach for a casual but top-notch cajun seafood experience with a great view of the Gulf of Mexico.

To experience the history of the island, there are many options.  I recommend a tour of Bishop’s Palace and a the Tall Ship Elissa.

For outdoor fun, just grab a towel and stop along the beach.  Don’t be scared of the seaweed or seagulls, but if you are, then head to Schlitterbahn or Moody Gardens for a visit to their watermark.  Moody Gardens also has one of the best aquariums in Texas and a rainforest pyramid not to be missed.

Other outdoor attractions on the island include Galveston State Park and taking a Dolphin Cruise of Galveston Bay.

Brenham, TX

Brenham is more than just Blue Bell.  Don’t believe me?  Check it out for yourself.  However, let’s not pretend.  Brenham IS Blue Bell too.  And to explore the sweetest side of Brenham, head to the Blue Bell Creamery for a tour and a scoop to learn how the “little creamery in Brenham” got its start and went from producing 2 gallons a day to thousands.

For something more substantial in your stomach, how about a $100 hamburger?  Sound delicious?  For a hundred bucks, it better.  Well the good news is that the burger doesn’t actually cost $100 it is only worth $100 to folks who are willing to fly to the Brenham Municipal Airport just to eat it and who have voted it the Best $100 hamburger in the USA.  Try it for yourself at the Southern Flyer Diner a 50’s themed diner complete with poodle skirts, jukebox, and homemade cookin’.  More good news – they have a parking lot, so you can leave your private jet at home (if you want).

While in town, check out Brenham’s Historic Downtown, with shopping and good casual eateries like Must Be Heaven for soup, sandwiches, homemade pies, and (of course) Blue Bell.  You might also want to make a stop by the Pleasant Hill Winery to sip on a glass, or for something a bit odd, the Monastery of St. Clair, operated by nuns who raise miniature ponies.  NOTE:  the Monastery will close at the end of May 2011.  So, go quick if you want to check this out.

Bastrop, TX

Bastrop is a city tucked away along the winding Colorado River and lost within the Lost Pines.

To appreciate Bastrop, it is mandatory to exit Highway 71.  Or else you’d miss the three crown jewels of Bastrop: (1) the Colorado River, (2) Bastrop’s historic downtown, and (3) the Lost Pines.

For a first stop, I’d head straight downtown.  Grab a giant Chicken Fried Steak and sip sweet tea from a mason jar at Maxine’s on Main.  Then head over to Lock Drugs, a old pharmacy , and wash it all down with a hand-dipped Blue Bell milkshake from their old-fashioned soda fountain.  Downtown is also a great place to do some shopping, antiquing, and maybe grab an old-fashioned shave from John’s Barber Shop.  Also, don’t miss the chance to “spit off the bridge”.  Be sure to ask a local for details on this one.  For the best food outside of downtown, hit up Roadhouse where I highly recommend diving into a Jalapeno-Cream-Cheeseburger.  You won’t regret it.

If you seek the natural side of Bastrop, take a trip down the Colorado River along the El Camino Real Paddling Trail, a six mile trail winding around the city and finishing up at the Lost Pines Recreational Trails.  Rising Phoenix Adventures would be happy to set you up with a kayak or canoe.  You can also head to Bastrop State Park to see the famous “Lost Pines” – a group of Loblolly Pine trees that got separated from East Texas during the ice age and are now permanent residents of Bastrop.

Mineral Wells, TX

For years, people have been CRAZY about Mineral Wells and for good reason too. Whether you stop in to drink some of its healing waters or maybe just take in the gallons of history around each corner, this town will have you satisfied by the end of the day.

CULTURE

To really understand the special kind of crazy surrounding this town, you’ll want to visit Downtown Mineral Wells where tucked away in a parking lot, you’ll find the well that started it all. Tired of traveling to other towns for fresh water, James Lynch dug his own well in the 1900s. After drinking from it, he noticed that he felt healthier than he ever had. People traveled from near and far to get a taste of his healing water and so Mineral Wells was built.

Sadly, all of the wells dried up but one. If you’re hoping for a taste of the crazy, you can find it at the Famous Mineral Water Co. The company bottles the water from the remaining well and sales this liquid vitamin in water bottles and sodas.

While you’re in town, you should also check out the hauntingly beautiful Baker Hotel and Crazy Water Hotel. Both were built during the crazy water hay day to accommodate the massive crowds that flooded into town just for a taste of the healing waters. And both, which are still standing today, were abandoned after all the wells dried up.

Just outside of town, you’ll find the Fort Wolters which was the largest base for helicopter pilots during the Vietnam War. You can learn about this well-known base just a little further down the road at the National Vietnam Museum. In the museum, you can see the iconic UH1 (or “Huey”) Helicopters that pilots learned to fly here or pay your respects at the Vietnam Memorial Garden, a half-scale replica of the memorial in Washington D.C.

For some good, clean fun, head over to the Laumdronat Washing Machine Museum to learn about the evolution of the washing machine. You can also do your laundry because it is a full-functioning laundromat as well.

OUTDOORS

If you enjoy climbing, then you’ll definitely want to take a shot at the Penitentiary Hollow in the Lake Mineral Wells State Park. This is one of the most unique places to climb in Texas because instead of climbing up it, you top-rope down the towering sandstone into the crevices beneath. It is fragile when wet, so it is closed when it rains. Legend has it that this hollow was named after the jail kept in its crevices. For an amazing bike trail, check out the Lake Mineral Wells Trailway in the state park, a 20-mile path on an old railway line that used to connect downtown Mineral Wells and Weatherford. Plus, Garner, TX, is a nice pit-stop along the way!

You can frolic in flowers at Clark Gardens, a 35-acre botanical garden with every kind of flower and greenery you can imagine. And for all the train-fanatics, there’s a model train set that includes a mini Mineral Wells and Baker Hotel!

You can time-travel back to the dinosaur days by digging for fossils at Mineral Wells Fossil Park. While you have to supply your own shovels, you can take home any dino bones you find.

FOOD

When the hunger hits, head to Dee’s Hometown Diner in Cool, TX. Dee’s may not be your average small town diner, but it is dee-lish. On the front of the menu, you’ll find the typical cowboy chicken-fried fare, but on the back is a wonderland of Lebanese delights. Dee serves up everything from stuffed grape leaves to falafel.

If you want a meal that’s sure to last you for at least two more, head to Mary’s Café for the biggest chicken fried steak you’ve ever seen. Seriously, this steak is the size of Texas, and you’ll want to be sure to wear some comfy pants to devour this dinner.

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