If you’re looking to plan a getaway in Texas, here are some areas/cities where you can find natural water to cool down. Book early; everyone in Texas will be flocking to the water!

Rental Property Sites

As you’re looking for house rentals, here are some websites to peruse. Fees vary by website, so try shopping around to find the lowest price for a certain property.

• Hill Country Premier Lodging
• Vacasa
• Wimberley Lodging
• LCRA
• Lodgewell
• Vrbo
• Airbnb

Austin

For something more urban, visit Austin. You’ll be able to enjoy the great food scene and the outdoor water options. Find swimming and water sports at these locations:

• Barton Springs Pool
• Deep Eddy Pool
• Sculpture Falls
• McKinney Falls
• Emma Long Park
• Krause Springs
• Lady Bird Lake

Lake Travis Area: This is where most people rent barges, pontoon boats, jet skis, and ski boats to enjoy on the water. It takes about 45 minutes to get out there but a day out on the lake gives you a reprieve. We typically rent from Just For Fun.

Spicewood

A little farther west, the Colorado River continues. You can jump in at Pace Bend Park or kayak at Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area. FireSong Ranch is a nearby place to stay.

Wimberley

Located about an hour south of Austin, Wimberley has been one of our favorite places for a weekend getaway. There are lots of places to stay and several bodies of water. (The bodies of water all flow into each other but have different landscapes.) You could visit all of them in one weekend.

• Blue Hole Regional Park: This natural, spring-fed swimming area is crisp! You’ll need to reserve a timeslot ($6 for kids and $12 for adults) between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
• Jacob’s Well Natural Area: You’ve probably seen photos of this swimming hole. People usually jump in one at a time. Unfortunately, swimming is currently closed (June 2023) because of the drought, but bookmark this for the future. Reservations are usually available in two-hour increments and cost $5 for kids and $9 for adults.
• Blanco River: Wimberley doesn’t have many public access points to enjoy the Blanco River, but you can find many house or hotel rentals with private access. We typically do a house rental, and we’ve also enjoyed Montesino Ranch in the past. Also, check out 7A Ranch.
• Cypress Creek: Connecting Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole is Cypress Creek. You’ll find a few rental properties along the creek. Another option is The Lodge at Cypress Falls. They have their own swimming hole that is open to the public.

Canyon Lake

Twenty minutes southwest of Wimberley is Canyon Lake. You’ll find many rental properties here. Search on your favorite rental website. You can also float the river here. The Horseshoe Loop on the Guadalupe River is about two hours and easy to get in and out. Hideout on the Horseshoe is a good place to stay to do this. You can get out right at the hotel.

New Braunfels

The Guadalupe River is the most popular river to tube, but because of that, it is typically filled with partiers. The Comal River is more family-friendly, and it has several points where you can get out and be shuttled back to the start. I’ve used Rockin R for tubing in the past.

Frio River

Outside San Antonio is the popular Frio River. This is another place for families, especially since the river doesn’t have rapids. Garner State Park is a good option to enjoy the river and stay. The Inn Between is a cute place about 5 minutes away from Garner State Park.

Dripping Springs and Johnson City

In the Dripping Springs and Johnson City area, about an hour outside of Austin, you’ll find two popular places for water – Pedernales Falls and Hamilton Pool. Stay in this area to combine water adventures with visiting a few picturesque breweries and distilleries, like Treaty Oak Distilling.

• Pedernales Falls State Park: This park has more than 5,000 acres and depending on the recent rain, high waters for play in the Pedernales River.
• Hamilton Pool Preserve: This beautiful spot has a 50-foot waterfall and a collapsed grotto. Typically you’ll need a reservation to visit in the summer. Swimming is not allowed right now (2023) because of bacteria but reservations are available for hiking the preserve.

There aren’t places with water access, but here are some places in this area you could stay:

• Wanderin’ Star Farms
• 13 Acres Retreat
• Camp Lucy
• Lucky Arrow Retreat
• Hill Country Casitas

West Hill Country

Go west! About an hour and a half northwest of Austin is an area where you can find water around Lake Buchanan, Inks Lake, and Lake LBJ.

• Inks Lake State Park: In addition to swimming, you can rent paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks from the park office. There are also cabins available for rent.
• Lake Buchanan: Check out Willow Point Resort.
• Lake LBJ: In this area is the upscale Horseshoe Bay Resort where you can find golf and a spa.

Texas Coast

Want more beach than a lake? Drive down to the Texas coast! Last year, we enjoyed a beach rental on the Bolivar Peninsula, and it was a quiet part of the beach. Here are some other areas to check out:

• Galveston
• South Padre
• Port Aransas
• Corpus Christi
• Matagorda Bay Nature Park

DFW Area

In the DFW area, check out:

• Lewisville
• Ft Worth Possum Kingdom Lake

Houston Area

In the Houston area, check out:

• Lake Conroe
• Blue Lagoon, Lake Raven, Huntsville

Wherever you go, stay cool this summer! Don’t forget sunscreen.

Here are more posts to help plan your summer:

• 30 Best Cold Treats – Ice Cream and More
• 4 Ways I’m Getting Ready for Summer
• Best Desserts in Austin
• Best Day Trips and Weekend Getaways from Austin

The post Best Texas Vacation Getaways Near Water appeared first on Fearless Captivations.

Pack up your car. Here are 10 spots in Texas to visit.

Fredericksburg and Enchanted Rock

Having visited Fredericksburg annually in the last few years, it’s a favorite for me. There are plenty of cute bed and breakfast places to stay and lots of wineries to visit. Some of my favorite spots in Fredericksburg include Cabernet Grill and Enchanted Rock.

See my Fredericksburg Travel Guide here.
Austin to Fredericksburg: 78 miles, 1 hour 40 minutes

Hamilton Pool

Hamilton Pool is arguably Texas’ most famous watering hole. It’s beautiful landscape and intimate surroundings make it feel like a secret spot. Reservations are required for the summer, so be sure to make them early.

See my post about Hamilton Pool here.
Austin to Hamilton Pool: 31 miles, 52 minutes

Jacob’s Well and Wimberley

Another popular watering hole is Jacob’s Well, the spring where people take brave jumps into a deep, dark pool. It’s about eight minutes from the town of Wimberley, known for its antique shopping. Also, their Blue Hole Regional Park is a place where you can swim and jump in from a swing. If you want to stay overnight, check out Collective Retreat or Yurtopia for glamping.

See my Wimberley Travel Guide here.
Austin to Wimberley: 35 miles, 50 minutes

Distilleries and Breweries in the Hill Country

One of my favorite day trips is driving out to the distilleries and breweries in the outskirts of Austin near Dripping Springs. Remember my visit to Treaty Oak Distilling Ranch? You can also visit Jester King Brewery, Family Business Beer Company, Twisted X Brewing Company, Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery, Argus Cidery, and more. Most if not all have food on-site but if you need other recommendations, stop by Pieous or The Pickle House.

If you want to make it a weekend getaway, stay in a luxury cabin or yurt at Lucky Arrow Retreat, a cute cottage at The Wayback, a treehouse at Cypress Valley, or a simple bungalow at Living Waters on Lake Travis.

See more about the Austin area breweries here.
Austin to Dripping Springs area: 18 miles, 35 minutes

San Antonio

The closest big city away from Austin has plenty of activities. From the history of the Alamo and Missions to plenty of tacos, San Antonio is a fun city for a weekend getaway. Be sure to check out the vibrant Pearl Brewery district and you have to visit the Alamo and Riverwalk at least once in your life.

See my San Antonio Travel Guide here.
Austin to San Antonio: 80 miles, 1 hour 35 minutes

Tubing in New Braunfels

If you lived your 20s in Austin, there’s a chance you’ve been on a few trips to float the river. Tubing for three to six hours can be the most relaxing or crazy experience. It’s most fun with a big group of friends. (I’ve done tube rental through Rockin’ R a few times.) In New Braunfels, check out the Comal River. Other popular tubing spots south of Austin are the Guadalupe River and the San Marcos River.

I’ve stayed at Hideout on the Horseshoe where there’s a two-hour float on the Guadalupe River that lands back at the hotel. Rent a house, book, a room, or stay nearby at the luxurious Wahwahtaysee Resort or Geronimo Creek Retreat. If you don’t stay local, be sure to have a designated driver back to Austin or book a tour through Texas Winos.

See our lakehouse and tubing weekend post here.
Austin to New Braunfels: 48 miles, 1 hour

Waco

The Chip and Joanna empire has caused an increase in visitors to the town of Waco. If you’re a “Fixer Upper” fan or want to see what the hype is all about, stop by Magnolia Market at the Silos for home décor and a cupcake. Book a room at one of the Magnolia properties or stay in a tiny house. The Dr. Pepper Museum, Baylor University, and Balcones Distillery are some other attractions to check out. (The Cell Block is a unique stay – a jail – about 40 minutes from Waco.)

See my visit to Magnolia Market here.
Austin to Waco: 105 miles, 1 hour and 40 minutes

Georgetown

This charming town north of Austin is the perfect day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway. Take a dip in their Blue Hole and visit Rentsch Brewery. Don’t forget to stop by the most beautiful town square in Texas!

See my Georgetown Travel Guide here.
Austin to Georgetown: 30 miles, 40 minutes

Lockhart

This day trip has been on my to-do list for a long time! Grab some friends and go to Lockhart, known as the barbecue capital of Texas. You’ll want to save room to visit a few barbecue spots, including Kreuz Market, Smitty’s Market, and Black’s Barbecue. (If you’ve been to Lockhart, maybe you should try a barbecue road trip to Taylor or Lexington.)

Austin to Lockhart: 35 miles, 45 minutes

West Texas

West Texas is nothing like the rest of Texas. Its expanse and wildness will inspire your adventurous side. It’s farther from Austin than all the other places on this list but you’ll be glad you visited for a long weekend. Big Bend National Park is a must-do if you want to see incredible landscapes. When you visit Big Bend, you’ll probably stay in Terlingua, which has this cool place to stay. Marfa has a really cool art museum, Chinati Foundation, which is also a must-do for me.

Check out my guides for Marfa and Big Bend. Remember when I stayed in a teepee?
Austin to Marfa: 430 miles, 6 hours and 36 minutes
Austin to Big Bend: 474 miles, 8 hours and 5 minutes

Ready for your Getaway?

I know I am! These are some destinations I’ll return to again and again because of the proximity to Austin and there’s more to see.

Where would you recommend visiting in Texas? Do you have any summer trips planned?

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Disclosure: The Georgetown Convention and Visitors Bureau provided complimentary items. All opinions are my own.

My fiancé and I are counting down the months until we bring all of our friends and family to Georgetown to celebrate our wedding! We looked at so many wedding venues in the Austin area, but we decided on Georgetown because of our budget and it was closer to our house compared to the Hill Country. Georgetown is also an incredibly charming town!

We’ve been getting to know Georgetown with all our wedding planning visits to give the best tips to our guests. So, here are some of the tips and recommendations we’ve found.

Why Visit Georgetown, Texas

A wedding might have you spending some time in Georgetown, but it’s also a sweet place to spend a weekend or a day trip. Home of the “Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas,” it’s the perfect-sized town to explore fully yet not be overwhelmed with the number of places to check out. And yes, the town square is part of the charm, along with its outdoor activities and restaurants.

Quick Tips

While many things are located around the Georgetown Square, you may want to have a car handy (or use ride share) to visit a few things outside of the square.

Getting There

Georgetown is located about 20-30 minutes north of Austin off I-35.

Where to Stay

There are about 50 home options (entire home) you can rent on Airbnb and here are three of my favorites:

• Mint Couple’s Cottage
• The Harty House
• Atomic Ranch House

The newest and largest hotel in town, the Sheraton Austin Georgetown Hotel is a modern place to stay. Hampton Inn & Suites, Comfort Suites, and Best Western Plus are three other hotel options.

For a bed and breakfast, check out San Gabriel House, a six-bedroom mansion built in 1914.

Where to Eat in Georgetown

Monument Café
I’ve dined at Monument Café twice and they know their breakfast. Pancakes, biscuits and gravy, eggs benedict, and more!

600 Degrees Pizzeria
They’re slinging pizzas over here! If you visit at lunch, you’ll be able to order by the slice and they are huge! My go-to is the City Pie. If you need more, their garlic knots and pork shanks are good appetizers.

Galaxy Bakery
Stop by this bakery on the square for a sweet treat. While I usually don’t dissuade people from eating cupcakes, I think the true winner here is the sticky bun, especially if it’s warm!

El Monumento
Known for their happy hour and margaritas, El Monumento also serves homemade Mexican cuisine. This is the sister restaurant of Monument Café.

Sweet Lemon Kitchen
This sweet spot is a casual place for breakfast.

Wildfire
Steakhouse, wine bar, and a mainstay restaurant that locals love.

John Mueller Black Box Barbecue
If you know Texas barbecue, you’re sure to know the name Mueller. John Mueller followed his grandfather and is showing Georgetown all he’s learned about barbecue from the time he was a kid. Bring some friends and order a few pounds of meat.

Nancy’s Sky Garden
If you’re looking for a healthy option, you’ll find salads and balanced plates here.

Dos Salsas
If you’re looking for Tex-Mex, try Dos Salsas, a family-owned restaurant for nearly 20 years.

Where to Drink

Rentsch Brewery
If you love craft beer and breweries, a visit to Rentsch Brewery should be in your plans. Opened in 2015, the brewery has very drinkable beers and a good double IPA (my favorite).

Georgetown Winery
With a big list of wines, Georgetown Winery is the place to try local wines. Their vineyard is about an hour away in Rockdale.

Grape Creek Winery
Grape Creek Winery is a popular Fredericksburg winery and they also have a tasting room on the Georgetown square.

The Uptown Social
Located on the edge of the square, The Uptown Social is a sports bar that stays open late.

Where to Play

Inner Space Cavern
Found in 1963, these caverns were an exciting discovery as the highway was being built. Since opening the caverns to the public in 1966, Inner Space Cavern has been a place of wonder for visitors admiring the formations that are estimated to be at most 100 million years old! They’ve found remains of a saber-toothed cat and formations of ocean coral, which is pretty cool to me. They have three different tours – beginner, intermediate, and advanced – depending on if you want to go to places that are more or less developed.

Georgetown Art Center
Free to the public, the Georgetown Art Center features visiting exhibits.

Blue Hole Park
For a watering hole you don’t need a reservation for, visit Georgetown’s Blue Hole. This spacious park and scenic swimming area would be perfect with an afternoon dip followed by a picnic dinner.

Lake Georgetown
For boating, fishing, swimming, and more, visit Lake Georgetown.

The Palace Theater
The home for performing arts, this theater first opened in 1925 and was last renovated in 2001. Their season usually includes musicals and plays.

Town Square
You’ll find several of the sights and restaurants above on and near the town square, which surrounds the Historic Williamson County Courthouse. Tours of the courthouse are available on Friday and Saturday afternoons.

Conclusion

If you’re itching for a getaway, plan a trip to Georgetown. I know we’ll be spending a lot more time there and we can’t wait!

Have any recommendations for Georgetown? Leave a comment below!

P.S. Looking for more Texas road trips? Try San Antonio or Wimberley.

You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Bloglovin’. You can also subscribe to the exclusive email list.

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It started with a cupcake, and my life has never been the same.

When the cupcake craze hit the U.S. and cupcake shops were opening left and right, I became semi-obsessed with this sweet treat. Austin had its own surge of cupcake shop openings, and I had to try every single one. I loved dessert and pastries, but with a cupcake, I loved how bakers infused creativity into this seemingly simple and small cake. It was too easy to have the usual combinations of vanilla and chocolate. Now there was cookie dough, peanut butter, crumbled chocolate cookies, and fresh strawberries added into these few bites.

Being a part of Yelp and now, the Austin Food Blogger Alliance encouraged this food obsession. I dove into trying new-to-me restaurants, cuisines, and dishes constantly and was insatiable in discovering and experiencing. From a restaurant owner’s inspiration to open a restaurant to the explosion of flavors in a well-crafted dish, food continues to fascinate me with the ways it sparks joy on my tongue and in my brain.

We all have those things we’re passionate about or are interested in. They consume our thoughts and our free time, and if we’re lucky, we can share our passion with others.

What are you passionate about?

Cocktail Class at Treaty Oak Distilling

It’s this passion for learning about food and drinks that made me say an excited ‘yes’ to Treaty Oak Distilling‘s invite to a cocktail class at their Cocktail Lab. (You might remember my visit a few months prior.)

In practicing what they preach – “pursuit of the curious” – Treaty Oak Distilling hosted author Aaron Goldfarb for a special presentation about his new book “Hacking Whiskey.” In the book, Goldfarb is like a mad scientist and inspired artist, infusing things like brisket and smoke into whiskey cocktails. His creations enhance whiskey and challenge people to get creative and have fun with their drinks. In addition to recipes, “Hacking Whiskey” includes general knowledge and tips.

Whiskey isn’t my go-to spirit but I do like cocktails and learning. It’s easy to take a sip of whiskey and declare I’ll never like it but mixed with different ingredients, I might be the presentation I didn’t like, not the whiskey. There were cocktails in the class on the strong side for me, but there were also ones that I can see myself ordering again and again. I was a little surprised by that but I’ve learned that putting your preferences in a box can hinder your experiences.

Our cocktail class presented four different recipes from “Hacking Whiskey,” each customized by Treaty Oak Distilling. We enjoyed The Julius (inspired by an Orange Julius), the Brisketini (yes, with brisket-infused whiskey), Death & Taxes (infused with cigar smoke), and the Milk Punch (my favorite). Each cocktail was thoughtfully crafted, sure to give you a satisfied reaction after taking a sip and tasting how well the flavors went together.

Treaty Oak Distilling’s products are impressive to me already, especially the gin. This opportunity to “play” with whiskey illustrates the company’s desire to shake up the industry and encourage people to go beyond what they know and have experienced. If you’re curious about this, be sure to look out for future cocktail experiences in their Cocktail Lab.

5 Ways to be Passionately Curious

I encourage you to find something you’re passionate about in life. Start a quest and explore your curiosity! Here are five ways to fuel your passion:

1. Challenge Yourself

Everyone starts somewhere. My passion for food was fostered by going to restaurants and trying new cuisines. I begin to find out what I did and didn’t like and learned about traditions and cultures. Keep an open mind and be willing to try and learn new things. You might find yourself at a whiskey cocktail class with some new favorite cocktails.

2. Take on a Challenge

It’s good to have goals in place. Growing my foodie knowledge meant visiting a certain number of restaurants every month or cooking through a cookbook. With a specific goal in mind, you’re more likely to find opportunities to challenge yourself.

3. Find Supporters

I love meeting up with fellow food bloggers and going out to eat with my fiancé because they love food as much as I do. We’re adventurous in trying new dishes and we revel in a great dining experience. Find people with whom you can share tips, learn, and geek out.

4. Read Books and Watch Shows/Movies

There is a wealth of information out there and it’s easily accessible, thanks to e-books and streaming services. In addition to my new “Hacking Whiskey” book, I’ve collected a few food-focused books and gravitate towards books and shows about food.

For foodie media, I love “The Third Plate” by Dan Barber, “The Omnivore’s Dilemma” by Michael Pollan, and am currently reading “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life” by Barbara Kingsolver. I’ve also been working my way through the books “Wine Folly” and “The Beer Bible” to learn more about the history and types of wine and beer, respectively. For shows, I like “Parts Unknown,” “Chef’s Table,” “Ugly Delicious,” and “Salt, Heat, Fat, Acid,” which are all on Netflix.

5. Take a Class

Learn from the experts. If you’re interested in a subject, why not invest your time and money into it? In a class, you’ll be able to ask questions and get hands-on experience. You’re also likely to be in a class with people who are interested in the subject as you are! [I’ve got a big list of creative classes in Austin you should check out.]

What are you passionate about and how do you stay curious about it?

P.S. Want to hear more foodie adventures? I have a thing for craft chocolate, I also like craft beer, and I’m on a year-long local eating challenge this year.

You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Bloglovin’. You can also subscribe to the exclusive email list.

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There is so much to do in Austin! I’ve taken my 12+ years of living here and condensed all the things I’ve seen, done, and know into this master list to help you plan your trip. I can’t wait for you to see my hometown!

Why Visit Austin

Austin is one of, if not the, coolest cities in Texas. There’s a vibrant, young energy in this town, probably fueled by tacos and the proximity of ambitious college students. The city is thought to be more liberal and accommodating than the rest of Texas.

There are lots of things to do in Austin and a great variety of things. Art, culture, food, outdoors, shopping, nightlife – there’s something for everyone. Speaking of food, Austin is a foodie town with SO MANY options! More on that further in this post.

When to Visit Austin

In short, visit Austin in the spring or fall. That’s March, April, May, September, October, and November. You’ll find the most tolerable and pretty consistent weather in these months. Here and there we’ll have rain and cold snaps. If you don’t mind sweating A LOT, visit in the summer – June, July, and August.

Check out this post for more on when to visit and what events happen throughout the year.

How to Get to Austin

If you’re flying in, you’ll land at our only airport, Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS). It’s about 9 miles or 15 minutes to downtown. Even with its recent expansions, the airport is fairly small. You’ll eat well in the airport as a handful of Austin restaurants have location there. You might even catch some live music playing.

If you’re driving in, it’ll take three hours from Dallas and two hours and 30 minutes from Houston.

How to Get Around Austin

If you’re planning to stay in and near downtown, you can rely on bikes and rideshare to get around. If you want to visit breweries in the hill country or take a day trip to Hamilton Pool, you might need to rent a car.

In Austin, helmets are only required for kids under 18 years old.

Ride Share: Ride Austin (local rideshare), Uber, or Lyft

Bike Rental

• B-cycle: look for red stations around downtown. $12 for a 24-hr rental or $18 for a 3-day access
• Jump Electric Bike: look for red bikes with a basket. $1 for the first 5 minutes, 15 cents for every minute after. Reserved through the Uber app.

Scooter Rental

• Lyft: look for black scooters with pink and purple stripes. $1 to unlock a scooter, 15 cents for every minute. Reserve through the Lyft app.
• Jump: look for red scooters. $1 for the first 5 minutes, 15 cents for every minute after. Reserve through the Uber app.
• Bird: look for the black scooters with a white box that says BIRD. $1 to unlock a scooter, 15 cents for every minute. Reserve through the Bird app.
• Lime: look for the lime green scooters. $1 to unlock a scooter, 15 cents for every minute. Reserve through the Lime app.

Rail: Austin Metro travels north to south, from around the Domain area to downtown

Bus: though it takes time, Austin has an extensive bus system

Where Should I Stay in Austin

Where you stay depends on what you want to do in Austin. If you want to enjoy restaurants and nightlife, aim for downtown and Rainey Street.

If you’re looking to stay in cool, hip Austin neighborhood with restaurants and shops in walking distance, look to stay in South Congress. South Congress Hotel and Austin Motel are your best bets.

East Austin is hipster central and where you’ll find many bars and newer restaurants. There are only small, boutique hotels like Heywood Hotel and Hotel Eleven over there.

Downtown Austin will have the majority of hotels and they’re all fairly close to each other. If you’re visiting Austin for the nightlife, stay downtown or on Rainey Street.

• Big Hotels: Hotel Van Zandt, JW Marriott, Fairmont Austin, Westin Downtown, Omni Austin Downtown, W Austin
• Hostels: Native Hostel, Firehouse Hostel, HK Austin, Drifter Jack’s Hostel
• Boutique Hotels: Hotel San Jose, The LINE, Hotel Saint Cecilia, Hotel Ella

If you want to get out of downtown, try the Domain district, about 20 minutes north. This area has many restaurants and shops. Stay at the Archer Hotel, Lone Star Court, Aloft, or Westin Domain.

Best Things to Do in Austin

When in Austin, I encourage you to enjoy the outdoors, take in the culture, explore landmarks and street art, and of course, indulge in all the good food!

This “Best Things to Do in Austin” post will be very helpful for you. It highlights my top 10 favorite things to do in Austin along with some other recommendations.

Where to Eat in Austin

We are a foodie city, meaning we have plenty of great restaurants. To start your planning, check out my Ultimate Austin Foodie Bucket List. You don’t want to leave Austin without sampling our barbecue and tacos.

I have an abundance of food posts on my blog. Check out these posts:

• My Favorite Austin Restaurants
• 30 Best Cold Treats in Austin
• Best Food Trucks in Austin
• Food Trucks that Now Have a Brick-and-Mortar Restaurant
• Best Pastries in Austin
• Where to Eat Noodles in Austin
• Best Cupcakes in Austin
• Bubble Tea Shops in Austin
• Best Restaurants in North Austin

Where to Drink in Austin

Breweries, distilleries, wineries, and bars – we have plenty of them! Here’s a quick snapshot.

Breweries

• Jester King Brewery – this is the most well-known brewery and for good reason. It’s about 30 minutes outside of downtown, which isn’t convenient if you’re not wanting to make a day trip out of it.
• If you’re looking for a great brewery in Downtown Austin, try Zilker Brewing, Lazarus Brewing, and Oddwood Ales.
• Some of my favorite breweries are a bit outside of downtown but are located in Austin’s “brew-bor-hood,” about 20 minutes from downtown. I would recommend Adelbert’s Brewery and Austin Beerworks.
• See my full brewery guide in this post.
• For great bars with plenty of local beers on tap, go to Banger’s, Craft Pride, Easy Tiger, Hopfields, or Draught House Pub & Brewery.

Wineries

• Austin has two urban wineries: Infinite Monkey Theorem and The Austin Winery
• If you want to try mead, go to Meridian Hive Meadery.
• The best wine bars are House Wine, APT 115, Vino Vino, Aviary Wine & Kitchen, and Winebelly.

Distilleries

If you’re ok with traveling, there are a few distilleries 20-40 minutes from Downtown Austin.

• Treaty Oak Distilling (gin and whiskey) – See my review here
• Deep Eddy Vodka
• Still Whiskey

Cocktail Bars

• A few recommendations: Half-Step, Whisler’s, Peche, Nickel City
• Somewhat hidden in parking garages: Small Victory or Garage
• Speakeasy: Midnight Cowboy (make a reservation), Red-Headed Stepchild (which has Floppy Disk Repair Co. as its front), or Firehouse Lounge (behind a bookcase)

Nightlife in Austin

This section is for everyone who will stay up until last call or at least try. Austin’s bars close at 2 a.m. We don’t have an open container law in Austin, which means you can’t drink in public areas, but there are plenty of bars in these areas.

Keep reading for more on Dirty 6th, West 6th, Rainey Street, East 6th, and Rock Rose. (Quick tip: West and East refer to which side of I-35 the area is and Dirty and West 6th are both on the west side before Mopac.)

6th Street / Dirty 6th

If you’ve never been to Austin, you might have an inkling to visit our “famous street” – 6th Street, also known as Dirty 6th. From 10 pm to 3 am on the weekends, 6th Street is filled with partiers bar-hopping the places that line the street. The street is blocked off for cars during this time. Dirty 6th runs from Red River to Congress. Go to The Library, Maggie Mae’s, and The Chuggin’ Monkey.

West 6th

West 6th runs from San Antonio to West Avenue. This is thought to be a little more grown-up 6th Street. The street is not blocked off from cars here. Stop by Stereotype, The Ranch, or The Dogwood.

Rainey Street

A few blocks away from 6th Street is Rainey Street. This area is great for a nicer dinner before drinks. Half-Step, Container Bar, and Lustre Pearl are recommended stops.

East 6th

East 6th is for a low-key time out. You’ll find drinks, dancing, and less flashy vibes than Rainey or Dirty and West 6th. Go two-stepping at White Horse before dancing to hits at The Eastern next door. Go to The Volstead or Shangri-La for drinks. There are two breweries on this street if you’re into craft beer – Lazarus Brewing Co. and Zilker Brewing Company.

Rock Rose

Rock Rose is what happens when you take Dirty 6th and West 6th and move it up north. Though it seems to have fewer bars, it has the Rose Room, a big dance club with a lighted escalator entrance.

Conclusion

I hope this guide helps as you plan your trip to Austin, and I hope you love Austin as much as I do!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram at WanderlustAnita to stay updated about all the new things going on in Austin. Feel free to message me if you have any questions or need specific recommendations.

P.S. If you’re planning an Austin bachelorette party or girls weekend, I have the perfect post for you! See it here.

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Today I’m excited to tell you about this excellent seven-course, wine-paired dinner we had at Cabernet Grill! The restaurant invited us out to Fredericksburg and it’s easily one of the best restaurants I’ve tried in this town.

Cabernet Grill in Fredericksburg, TX

Cabernet Grill can best be described as classy yet very approachable. You’ll notice the difference in the quality of the food and drink but it’s not stuffy or awkward as finer dining restaurants can be. As you enter the restaurant, you’ll be sure to admire the big Texas-shaped cork art behind the welcome desk. You’ll see cork art all around the restaurant, and it represents what the restaurant prides itself on – Texas wine!

Cabernet Grill only serves Texas wine and more than 25 wineries are represented on their wine list. It’s the reason why they are consistently rated one of the top 100 wine restaurants in the U.S. by different organizations. A pretty cool recognition for a Texas restaurant!

In the entrance, you’ll also see this impressive wine storage, which I think would be a great addition to my house.

In the dining room, there are two spacious floors of seating. The lighting isn’t great for food photos, but it is perfect for an intimate and romantic dining experience.

Chef Ross Burtwell opened the restaurant in 2002 and his Hill Country cuisine features local companies and familiar ingredients. From the gulf’s seafood to the meat from Texas ranches, Cabernet Grill’s menu celebrates the bounty of Texas ingredients.

In the front of the house, Wine Director and Sommelier Elizabeth and our server Joe took care of us very well. Their attentive service and clear presentation were the highlights on top of a great experience. Now, wait until you see the courses Chef and his team prepared for us!

Our Wine-Paired Dinner

We loved our dining experience! Seven courses may seem like a lot but the time flew by as we anticipated and enjoyed each dish in its perfect timing. We had a special tasting menu that allowed us to try multiple dishes and a variety of vegetables, meat, and seafood.

I’m always amazed at how specifically paired wine is able to enhance a dish. It’s an impressive talent that Elizabeth has and during every course we’d look at each other and say, that’s perfect! The balance of salt, acid, spice, and sweet between the food and the wine is a delicate dance, and it’s well done at Cabernet Grill.

Here are the dishes and wine pairings we enjoyed.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Maple Cayenne Cream and Crispy Pepitas

Pecan Crusted Crab Cake with Mango Mayo and Pico
Pairing: Hilmy Cellars Viognier

Mexican Street Corn with pasilla chile, chilantro, lime crema, and chicharrones
Pairing: McPherson Cellars Albariño

Texas Twinkie: Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño with house-made beer sausage, red neck cheddar, and jezebel dip
and
Wild Organic Argula Salad with CKC goal cheese, pickled beets, roasted San Saba pecans, Beladi Tree EVOO, 25-year balsamic
Pairing: C.L. Butaud Rosé

Rosemary Sangiovese Sorbet (palate cleanser)

Pecan-Smoked Quail with chipotle potato mash, brown butter roasted carrots with almond crema
Pairing: Kuhlman Cellars Merlot

72-Hour Niman Ranch Short Rib with paprika aioli, braise jus, and three-cheese grits
Pairing: Brennan Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon

German’s Chocolate Bread Pudding with brandied Amarena ice cream
Pairing: Llano Estacado Port

Incredible, right?! The short rib was my favorite savory dish, though the arugula salad with those pickled beets was also fantastic. Butternut squash soup and sweet potato mash are two of my favorites, and the ones here did not disappoint. I LOVED the bread pudding and wish I had saved enough room to eat the whole thing!

For the wine, I always think I like reds more than whites, but the viogniers continue to surprise me. This one from Hilmy Cellars is one I’d like to drink again. I’m consistently a rosé fan and this one from C.L. Butaud was wonderfully paired with the Texas Twinkie. The port also surprised me and while sweet, the wine wasn’t too sweet like many ports I’ve had.

Overall, it was a cohesive dinner with a Texas theme. We each had our favorite dishes, though we agreed the pairings were spot on.

When you visit, don’t forget to take Chef’s recipes home with you through his cookbook!

Staying at Cotton Gin Village

After we enjoyed our dinner, we conveniently rolled/walked out the door and a few steps to our cabin at Cotton Gin Village! The property has eight different cabins, including spaces for large groups. It’s perfect for a group trip. They’re also in the process of expanding their lodging.

It was nice to not have to go far and have enough room to spread out. Our spacious Pedernales cabin had a living and dining room with a big comfy leather couch, TV, fridge, and dining table.

Through the sliding door were the cozy bedroom, bathroom, and tub shower. Their soaps made by Fredericksburg Farms smelled so good!

In the morning, breakfast was delivered in a cute picnic basket and included a hot crust-less quiche, sticky buns, yogurt, fruit, and juice. Combined with our hot tea we prepared through the Keurig in our room, this breakfast was one for champions. It was such a nice morning for winter, so we enjoyed this breakfast picnic on our porch.

Conclusion

What a fun, food-filled getaway to Fredericksburg! I know when we visit again, maybe during the peach season or for Oktoberfest, we’ll have to return for dinner at Cabernet Grill. I recommend you visit too!

Cabernet Grill
2805 S. State Hwy 16, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624
Open Tuesday through Saturday, 5-9pm

Which would be your favorite dish?

P.S. Looking for more Fredericksburg tips? Check out my travel guide here.

You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Bloglovin’. You can also subscribe to the exclusive email list.

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Similar to my other Texas weekend trips, this trip to Fort Worth was for art and the opportunity to explore another Texas city! I wanted to go to the Modern Museum of Art and I knew of a handful of restaurant options to check out.

Why Visit Fort Worth?

As the fifth largest city in Texas, Fort Worth holds a lot of adventure for visitors. From a noteworthy craft brewery and distillery scene to its many museums, Fort Worth proves it has a lot more culture than its nickname “Cowtown” might suggest. Its history and tourism are deep in cattle drives and cowboys, but this is only one feature in this growing city.

When to Visit Fort Worth

Ah, Texas. In typical Texas weather, you’ll be trying to avoid the heat for most of the year. We visited in early September and it was hot but bearable. The fall (around October) and spring (around April) are the ideal times. I think three days in Fort Worth is plenty of time to visit.

How to Get Around Fort Worth

Driving and renting a car is your best bet since sights are spread out. Though you can easily get from one end of the city to the other in no more than 30 minutes, having your own transportation is probably more convenient than a ride share. We visited on a holiday weekend and it was almost eerily quiet, so I’m not sure how traffic usually is here.

Where to Stay in Fort Worth

If you’re spending a weekend in Fort Worth, here’s a short guide on where to stay.

First, let’s talk about neighborhoods.

• Fairmount is the neighbor with the happening Magnolia Avenue and where we found a lot of restaurants.
• Cultural District is where most of the museums are located.
• Arlington Heights is where we stayed and it’s mostly a fancier residential area.
• Texas Christian University is in its own little neighborhood near Fairmount and Arlington Heights.

The average price of a hotel is about $100 a night. Here are some hotels you should check out:

• The Ashton Hotel
• Omni Fort Worth
• Three Danes Inn

The average price of an Airbnb is about $120-160. This is the apartment we stayed in and liked. I also considered this place and this place and this glamper.

Best Things to Do in Fort Worth

See this post for suggestions on what to see and do in Fort Worth!

Best Restaurants in Fort Worth

You’ll find a lot of meat-heavy dishes (think barbecue and chicken fried steak) in Fort Worth, but there’s also variety. Check out this list of restaurant, brewery, and dessert options.

Conclusion

The more places I visit in Texas, the more I see how different the landscapes and culture are in each place. They all have their quirks, pros, and cons. It encourages me to check places out for myself, especially since people’s preferences vary. If you want to get away for a weekend and explore a new city, Fort Worth is perfect for that!

P.S. Want more ideas for Texas adventures? Check out my Texas posts here.

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In preparing for my Fort Worth trip, I was thankful for the number of restaurants on my list. Sometimes you don’t want to be overwhelmed with choices when you have limited time in a place. With my manageable list, we knocked out our preferred places one-by-one. Many of the restaurants are located downtown, on Magnolia Avenue, or near the Museum District. Fort Worth’s restaurants got the memo that their city’s nickname is Cowtown. There are plenty of meat-heavy restaurants here, especially a lot of barbecue.

Here are my recommendations for casual and fancy restaurants, dessert, bars, breweries, and distilleries in Fort Worth.

Casual Fort Worth Restaurants for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Heim Barbecue

Listed on Texas Monthly’s Top 50 Barbecue Joints in Texas, Heim Barbecue went from a food trailer to a brick-and-mortar in 2017. That means their capacity has increased, and for me, it meant strolling in at 3:30 pm on a Saturday and they still had all the options of meat available. I may not have had to wait in a long line before they opened at 11 am, but I still enjoyed some brisket, pork ribs, and their famous bacon burnt ends. I hope your experience is just as speedy!

Righteous Foods

I picked out this restaurant because it seemed less meat-centric but lo and behold, I ended up ordering the burger and it was what I didn’t know I wanted. We also enjoyed the coconut ceviche and some drinking vinegars.

Swiss Pastry Shop

I came here for the famous black forest cake, so maybe this restaurant should be in the dessert section of this post! We came early and barely missed lunch, so we didn’t get to try their popular wagyu beef burger, but their breakfast options were on point. I was expecting chocolate cake instead of crispy meringue in between the cream layers, so the black forest cake wasn’t my favorite, but they do have a variety of cakes and pies you can try!

Woodshed Smokehouse

We couldn’t visit Fort Worth and not dine at a restaurant by Chef Tim Love. I picked Woodshed Smokehouse because we’ve got a Lonesome Dove location in Austin. This restaurant is more casual, and for us, it was a hit. We were there for Sunday brunch, and the fried pastrami sandwich was really good and so was their brisket poutine. The apple jalapeno empanada was a little too spicy for me.

Riscky’s Steakhouse

A classic Fort Worth restaurant in the stockyards district, this restaurant is known for its calf fries and ribs.

T&P Tavern

This former train station is now a restaurant serving bar food and featuring lots of beer taps. Dogs are welcome on their huge, covered patio.

Fort Worth Food Park

If food trucks are more your style, Fort Worth Food Park is the place for you!

Brewed

We tried to go here for brunch but didn’t make it there before the rush. This place is known for their chicken and waffles.

Spiral Diner and Bakery

Fort Worth’s only vegan restaurant is Spiral Diner and Bakery. If you’re wondering how vegan and comfort food go together, here’s your place.

McKinley’s Fine Bakery and Cafe

I had originally noted McKinley’s for their pastries, but they have a strong, casual menu of “regular” food too. Think sandwiches, salads, and grain bowls.

The Original

It’s a toss-up between here or Joe T Garcia’s for Mexican food. Since 1926, The Original has been a neighborhood favorite. The Roosevelt Special is the recommended dish.

Joe T Garcia’s

This Mexican restaurant has been around since 1935 and is still a popular place to dine. Have your cash ready since they do not take credit cards.

Shinjuku Station

There’s a lack of variety on this restaurant list, don’t you think? So consider this izakaya for some good Japanese small plates.

Little Red Wasp

Little Red Wasp is the casual sister restaurant of Grace, a fancier restaurant.

Fancier Fort Worth Restaurants for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Clay Pigeon

We came here for the grilled bone marrow! Maybe it was because we had already eaten a lot of meat during the day, but the watermelon salad ended up being our favorite dish of the night.

Ellerbe Fine Foods

Southern-style food focused on local ingredients and elegant cuisine, Ellerbe Fine Foods is a white tablecloth restaurant.

Lonesome Dove

If you to try some interesting meats in a fancier setting, check out Chef Tim Love’s restaurant Lonesome Dove. (There’s also a location in Austin.)

Grace

If you’re looking for white tablecloths, Grace will deliver with fine wine and prime steaks.

Fort Worth Dessert

Dessert gets its own section, of course, and you’ve got plenty of options in Fort Worth.

Dough Boy Donuts

Dough Boy Donuts started as a food truck and now has a shiny, new brick-and-mortar! These donuts are more doughy than usual, and my eyes were immediately drawn to the one topped with Fruity Pebbles. The s’mores donut was really good too!

Stir Crazy Baked Goods

I try to find a cupcake everywhere I visit, and Stir Crazy Baked Goods had a great strawberry one! Plus, the bakery is very cute with lots of room to work, chat, and read.

Melt Ice Creams

Texas is hot, so a stop for ice cream was necessary! We got a two-scoop cup with chocolate and vanilla. They have good, plain flavors, though next time I would try one of their seasonal flavors that have swirls of other flavors mixed in.

Muggle Shakes

The freakshake has arrived in Fort Worth. This frozen yogurt shop is known for their crazy and decadent milkshakes, so if you want a sugar rush, this is the place to go.

rise n°3

This popular souffle restaurant also has locations in Dallas and Houston.

Lumi Snow

If you love Taiwanese shaved snow, you’ll find it here at Lumi Snow.

Fort Worth Drinks

Near the stockyard and Billy Bob’s, here are a few honky-tonk watering holes that also have live music:

• Whiskey Girl Saloon
• White Elephant Saloon
• Thirsty Armadillo
• The Basement Bar

For classic and craft cocktails, visit:

• Thompson’s
• Proper
• Usual

If you’re looking for a drink that is greener, visit Juice Junkies.

Fort Worth Breweries

Fort Worth’s Ale Trail is perfect for beer lovers. The city has a strong number of craft breweries you can visit to taste beer straight from the source.

• Collective Brewing Co
• Cowtown Brewing Co
• Fort Brewery
• HopFusion Ale Works
• Martin House Brewing Company
• Panther Island Brewing
• Rahr & Sons Brewing
• Wild Acre Brewing Co

Want to try a bunch of beers from different breweries? Visit World of Beers or T&P Tavern.

Fort Worth Distilleries

Fort Worth also has a number of distilleries for those who prefer liquor to beer.

• Acre Distilling and Coffee Co
• Black Eyed Distilling Co
• Firestone and Robertson Distilling Co at Whiskey Ranch
• Trinity River Distillery

There you have it! I hope this list helps you plan some good eating while you’re in Fort Worth.

Do you have any food or drink recommendations for Fort Worth? Share below! 

P.S. Check out this post for recommendations of things to do in Fort Worth!

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Hello, Cowtown! We visited Fort Worth for the long holiday weekend and enjoyed exploring the city and discovering the history. Fort Worth was known as a trading post for cowboys, and you can see that history throughout the city, from the Longhorns on street signs to the daily cattle drive at the stockyards. But Fort Worth is more than cowboys and has something for everyone.

Here are suggestions for what to see and do in Fort Worth!

Fort Worth Stockyards

Here’s where everyone is hanging out! Everywhere we went in Fort Worth seemed fairly quiet except here. The cattle drive (a short walk of a few bulls through the main thoroughfare) happens at 11:30 am and 4 pm daily. There are also shops and restaurants in this area. Like spooky things? Take the Stockyards Ghost Tour!

National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame

This museum honors the women of the American West.

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Texas Christian University

Fan of the Horned Frogs? Then you should visit the campus of TCU.

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Sundance Square

When you’re in Downtown Fort Worth, visit Sundance Square, an entertainment district with shopping and restaurants. Here you’ll find Fort Worth Water Gardens and Bass Performance Hall, home of the Fort Worth Symphony and touring Broadway shows.

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Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

With post-World War II art on view, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth also hosts visiting exhibits. I was excited to see Takashi Murakami’s The Octopus Eats Its Own Leg while it was on view. Be sure to look for the permanent Dan Flavin piece. The museum offers free admission on Fridays and half-price admission on Sundays.

Kimbell Art Museum

The Kimbell Art Museum features European art, including Michelangelo’s first known painting. Admission to the museum’s permanent collection is always free.

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Amon Carter Museum of American Art

This free museum focuses on the art of the American West, including Amon Carter’s collection of art by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell.

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Billy Bob’s Texas

Live music, bull riding, country dancing, and plenty of cowboy hats, Billy Bob’s Texas is a true honky tonk with plenty to do.

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Fort Worth Zoo

Popular with families, the Fort Worth Zoo is expansive.

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The Foundry District

In Fort Worth’s Cultural District is this neighborhood of about 40 businesses, and the big attraction is the art!

Fort Worth Botanic Garden

Featuring its famous Japanese Garden and 10,000-square-foot conservatory, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden is a fun place to explore if you love plants.

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Marty Leonard Chapel

If you like architecture, stop by the Marty Leonard Chapel to marvel at its design.

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Burger’s Lake

This 30-acre park has two sandy beaches, diving boards, a slide, picnic tables, and more.

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Texas Motor Speedway

Fulfill your need for speed at the Texas Motor Speedway where NASCAR events take place.

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#LoveTheFort Mural

One of the most popular murals in Fort Worth, this cowboy is located on the side of the restaurant Brewed.

Have any recommendations of things to do in Fort Worth?

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Disclosure: Treaty Oak Distilling invited me to their ranch for a tour and to try their drinks and food, all complimentary to me. All opinions in this post are my own.

There comes a time when you finally stop and consider what you’re eating and drinking. We all have that cocktail we started with to get the job done. Then, we grow up and it becomes less about sustenance and how it makes you feel and more about how it tastes and how it was created. For me, I found a love for gin and its botanicals.

Treaty Oak Distilling created a line of gins that stand out from the rest, and I was lucky to visit their ranch to learn more. Keep reading to hear all about my visit!

Waterloo Gin

Let me first introduce you to Waterloo Gin, Treaty Oak’s gin brand. They currently have three distinct gins that will be the stars of your bar cart. What sets them apart are the unique flavors and the quality. The distillery focuses on using local ingredients to create their spirits, from Texas limestone filtered water to the sourced botanicals.

The signature gin, Waterloo No.9, has proved its brilliance, winning awards in various gin competitions. The botanicals of lavender, juniper, coriander, anise, ginger, pecan, orange, lemon, and grapefruit zest will surely enhance a martini or gin and tonic.

The longest-aged gin on the market, Waterloo Antique Gin has the power to turn whiskey and bourbon lovers into gin drinkers. Barreling the gin in American White Oak barrels gives it the rich color and depth in flavor. Try the Antique Gin in the gin spin of a Manhattan – the Martinez.

The game-changer for me was the Waterloo Old Yaupon. It’s a unique take on an Old Tom Gin, featuring botanicals like Yaupon Holly, Juniper, Kaffir Lime and Anise, which are back-sweetened with Wildflower Honey. The result is a gin with tea notes, giving cocktails like a Tom Collins or Bee’s Knees, a subtle twist.

Treaty Oak Distilling – Distilling Gin and Whiskey

Not new to the industry, Treaty Oak Distilling was founded in 2006 has been doing some soul-searching to re-do their branding. The end product is beautiful and a true representation of what they believe in and produce. In working with a marketing company, they’ve adopted elements that help tell their story better and convey their focus on innovation and quality of ingredients.

Hanzoku is a Japanese word translated to rebel or resistance to convention, and you’ll see it on their bottles. It embodies Treaty Oak’s desire to pay tribute to the traditions of distilling but also bring new ideas to their products. This is best represented by the unique tastes of their products but is followed through by the shape of their bottle and the design on the glass. I love the simple yet powerful strike of color that makes the bottles elegant yet fun.

If you are familiar with the brand, they also produced rum, vodka, and beer, but they’ve dialed back their production to focus on their gin and whiskey. Maybe one day they’ll be added back into the mix, but for now, Treaty Oak is on the way to win over gin and whiskey drinkers across the country through their partnership with Mahalo Spirits Group.

If you prefer whiskey, be sure to check out their whiskey line that includes Red Handed Bourbon Whiskey (sourced bourbons re-barreled), Red Handed Rye Whiskey (sourced bourbons re-barreled and aged 10 years), and Ghost Hill Texas Bourbon Whiskey (grain to glass local whiskey aged four years).

The Cocktail Lab

One of the reasons we were invited to visit the ranch was to experience The Cocktail Lab, the distillery’s new speakeasy lounge. This reservation and first-come, first-served private space will hold about 40 guests and feature a craft cocktail and food pairing menu. What I love is this lounge will focus on science, the art of cocktails, and creativity. It’s perfect for adventurous foodies who want to explore new flavors. I can see The Cocktail Lab as a fun activity for a celebration, like booking the space for a birthday. Keep an eye out – this space will be opening very soon and you don’t want to miss these cocktails.

Touring the Treaty Oak Distilling Ranch

This sprawling 28-acre ranch in Dripping Springs is nothing like Austin in terms of space. There’s plenty of it plus free parking. But the contagious energy of entrepreneurship, the pride in its culinary endeavors, and the ideals of perfecting a craft are also things that vibrate through Austin.

When you visit, you’ll need to grab a drink in the Rickhouse Bar, where the cocktails are simply delicious. Here you’ll also find plenty of shaded seating.

Next door is the tasting area where you can sample the gin and whiskey. Peek inside the distillery where the action happens! Next to the distillery is the barrel building, where gin and whiskey are cocooning towards its final transformation.

They’re making some changes to the ranch in the next few months, including remodeling the tasting room and restaurant, so look forward to a beautiful new presentation soon. If you’re doing a spirits tour in the Hill Country, this should definitely be a stop!

Ghost Hill Restaurant

Last but not least, there’s food! Focused on Texas-inspired cuisine, Ghost Hill Restaurant is led by Chef Chris Andrews and the menu is full of barbecue! All the favorite meats are available – brisket, beef ribs, pork ribs, sausage – plus, we were lucky to try the new beef belly sandwich that is coming to the menu. It was the best thing I ate there! Also, check out the daily specials since they are always testing new recipes.

You’ve probably had sweeter quick bread like banana bread, but I could eat this dill quick bread every day!

On the sweet side, the Rosemary Cake with bourbon fig chutney and brown butter whipped cream was a delightful ending.

Another feature I’m impressed by is the commitment to sustainability. They currently use compostable and biodegradable products, among other practices. One day, they hope to produce much of their ingredients on the land and support regenerative agriculture.

Conclusion

It’s clear to see there are a lot of exciting things happening at Treaty Oak Distilling. Soon it will be exciting to see people outside of Texas embrace our secret. If you’re in Texas and haven’t tried Treaty Oak’s products, check your local liquor store!

Location: 16604 Fitzhugh Road, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Hours: Thursday and Friday 4-9pm, Saturday 12-9pm, Sunday 12-6pm
Tours: Saturdays, 1-6pm at the top of the hour; 45-minute tours for $15 per person
Treaty Oak Distilling Website | Waterloo Gin Website | Instagram | Facebook

I’m curious – what’s your go-to cocktail?

P.S. While you’re out there, maybe you should visit Hamilton Pool.

Always on an adventure! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Bloglovin’. You can also subscribe to the exclusive email list.

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