Day Trips - The Austinot

Take an Unforgettable Texas Road Trip to Visit San Saba

April 18, 2018 by Samantha Saenz Leave a Comment

I was told by a local that if you open your heart to San Saba, the little town will wrap its ever-loving arms around you in a tight embrace. For the 48 hours I spent there, that’s precisely what I experienced. I knew no stranger, and no stranger knew me. As I headed back to Austin, I knew I’d just had one of the best Texas weekends of my life.

The rustic town of San Saba is located at the corner of 190 and 16 along the San Saba River, one-and-a-half hours northwest of Austin. There are only two traffic lights to direct the nearly 3,100 people who call San Saba home: the big light and the light at the school. [Read more…]

Roll Out the Barrel: Notable Texas Wineries Worth Visiting

March 23, 2018 by Samantha Saenz Leave a Comment

Wine tasting in the Perissos vineyard
(Credit: Matt McGinnis)

When I sent in my RSVP for the annual Roll Out the Barrel event, I was signing up for three winery visits in one day. Although I wasn’t exactly sure what I was getting into, certified sommelier Matt McGinnis clued me in. Roll Out the Barrel is a Texas take on the time-honored tradition of hosting en primeur tastings of newly available wine for journalists and wine professionals, traditionally held in Bordeaux each spring.

Although far from France, Texas Hill Country is definitely becoming known for wine. Thanks to my intimate, first-hand experience during Rolling Out the Barrel, I now have a better understanding of why. Here’s what I learned from three day-trip-worthy Texas wineries.

Thank you to the vineyards featured in this article for allowing me to attend Roll Out the Barrel at no charge. All opinions are my own. [Read more…]

How to Have a Perfect Day in Georgetown, TX

February 13, 2018 by Danielle Fritz 5 Comments

What will you discover in Georgetown? (Credit: Ashley Alkek)

The charming town of Georgetown is just 30 minutes north of downtown Austin. It’s perfect for a day trip–you’ll find establishments and attractions suited for a variety of visitors.

Spend the day exploring the area, eating at local restaurants, and catching performances in intimate venues. Below are a few of my recommendations when you’re ready to plan your trip!

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Take a Day Trip Safari Adventure to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

January 8, 2018 by Brittany Ballard Leave a Comment

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch in San Antonio

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is about an hour south of Austin and features an African safari, Texas-style

Whether you’re a giraffe lover or just an animal lover in general, I have the day trip adventure for you to put on your calendar next. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is just an hour south of Austin on the outskirts of San Antonio. The ranch is a fun twist on traditional animal-viewing experiences and features a Texas-style African safari. [Read more…]

8 Must-see Texas Hill Country Holiday Light Trails

November 24, 2017 by Joleen Jernigan 4 Comments

San Saba’s light show boasts 30 acres of lights and an extended run through Jan. 5, 2018 (Credit: Mitchell Hallmark/Found Media Group)

‘Tis the season to sparkle! From now through the end of the season, festive holiday light trails adorn Texas Hill Country, and we’ve discovered the best and brightest dazzlers around.

We adore Trail of Lights at Zilker Park, but this article goes above and beyond for my kind of people who are truly extra in their love for shiny objects. I’m eternally beguiled by the night and mesmerized by shiny objects, so I’m way into the holiday light trail scene.

These aren’t your subtle, modest light displays, but rather full-on Clark Griswold affairs. If you crave holiday glitz and are up for a quick road trip, these eight Hill Country destinations can satisfy your quest to shine on.
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No Early Mornings at Hye House Bed & Dinner

November 15, 2017 by Danielle Fritz Leave a Comment

Hye House Bed & Dinner is perfect for a night or few away (Credits: Hye House, Hye Market, Hye Market Farms)

When I’m indulging in a weekend away from Austin, I cherish my time to relax. Mornings spent sipping cups of coffee, lingering over meals, and savoring time with family and friends are what I enjoy the most. It’s these simple pleasures Hye House Bed & Dinner seeks to elevate.

Just 20 miles east of Fredericksburg, Hye House Bed & Dinner offers a customized experience within a range of budgets, for both couples and small groups. Its location in the midst of the Texas Wine Trail ensures guests have plenty to do while they’re in the area. [Read more…]

How to Road Trip to Round Top Any Time of Year

November 2, 2017 by Samantha Saenz Leave a Comment

“90 folks can’t be wrong” about this charming Texas town (Credit: @dollarsaenz)

Up until now, Round Top, Texas, has been synonymous with one thing—antiques. That’s because twice a year for many years, is has been the go-to destination for antique buyers and sellers. However, this quaint little town, founded in 1831 and currently home to 90 people, is bustling with new establishments as townspeople have aimed to make their home a year-round destination, with upscale shopping, dining, and lodging. [Read more…]

Traveling North on I-35? Eat at Stagecoach Inn

October 23, 2017 by Danielle Fritz Leave a Comment

Stagecoach Inn in Salado, Texas has attracted visitors since the 1800’s

Driving by Salado or taking a day trip to the village itself? Do as weary travelers have done since the late 1800’s. Drive up to Stagecoach Inn, the oldest restaurant in Texas. First established as Shady Villa Hotel, guests used to steer their stagecoaches there to seek refreshments and lodging before continuing their journey along the Chisholm Trail. Modern-day travel conditions may have changed, but Stagecoach Inn continues to delight those looking for tasty, comforting food or a room for the night, in a relaxing environment. [Read more…]

Plan a Full Day at Treaty Oak Ranch With Addition of Ghost Hill Restaurant

October 19, 2017 by Vi Chetan Leave a Comment

Tasting the Experimental Collection Treaty Oak

Tasting the Experimental Collection at Treaty Oak

Treaty Oak Ranch opened in 2015 with a focus on creating the best locally-distilled whiskey our area had ever experienced. The Dripping Springs establishment spans 27 acres and takes pride in creating small batch, craft spirits from the best ingredients. As a happy side effect, the distillery brews beer with malts and ingredients from whiskey-making. The Fitzhugh Ale gets its name from Treaty Oak’s location on Fitzhugh Road, and serves as the perfect mid-afternoon glassful of fresh.

As if you needed another reason to visit, Treaty Oak has a new eatery called Ghost Hill Restaurant. It serves up snacks, BBQ, and a full selection of the distillery’s spirits and beers. With a focus on seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, the 3,500-square-foot space boasts a minimal interior full of warm woods and a fully-stocked bar. The Texas-inspired food lives in the casual, friendly home it deserves. [Read more…]

Explore Your Wild Side on a Day Trip to Cypress Valley Canopy Tours

October 11, 2017 by Brittany Ballard Leave a Comment

Are you ready for a unique experience? (Credit: Cypress Valley Canopy Tours)

If you’ve ever wanted to experience your own adventure in the tree tops of a forest, look no further than Cypress Valley Canopy Tours, located about half an hour outside Austin in Spicewood, Texas. The closeness makes it the perfect opportunity to escape town without having to drive for hours on end.