2. Colorado Bend State Park
This park is located in Texas, mostly in San Saba County and is home to Gorman Falls.
There are a lot of activities to do here- fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, biking etc.
The 3-mile hike to Gorman Falls is moderate, with a steep, slippery drop near the end. The
rest of the trail is easy, stretching through a flat, desert-like terrain.
Due to the delicate ecosystem around the falls, you should see the majestic waterfall from
afar. Even so, it’s a breathtaking sight, one you wouldn’t expect to find in the heart of the hill
country.

3. Krause Spring
The Krause Spring is located in Spicewood, Texas, and is great for camping and swimming.
Its open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. You won’t have to book any reservations, however, the park
does get to capacity quickly, especially during the weekends.
Krause Springs is a stunning natural paradise. It features a lovely butterfly garden, at least
32 springs that flow into a manmade pool, and a natural pool with a waterfall. The manmade
pool is perfect for families with young children, while the natural pool is ideal for more
experienced swimmers.

4. Caddo Lake
Caddo is a beautiful natural lake famous for its wild beauty. It is located on the border
between Texas and Louisiana. This lake is filled with cypress trees, and homes vast bayous,
ponds, canals, and creeks.
The best time to visit this lake is during the fall or spring seasons. There’s a lot to explore
here and you can do so by renting a kayak or canoe. Some other activities to look out for
are– picnicking, hiking, paddling, fishing, camping, watching sunrise and sunset etc.
The entry fee for adults is only $4 and its free for kids! Make sure to check this amazing
place on your Texas road trip.

5. San Jose Island
San José Island, just a short trip from Corpus Christi, is a perfect place to relax. It offers
some of the best fishing in Texas. Both locals and visitors enjoy fishing for Speckled Trout,
Redfish, Flounder, and more.
The island is privately owned, so there are no typical beach amenities. However, it is home
to 600 species of fish and 300 species of birds. That’s why the island stays natural and
undisturbed. No vehicles are allowed. You can only reach it by ferry from Port Aransas.
On the island, you can enjoy fishing, shelling, and birdwatching. Look for beautiful shells like
shark eyes, lightning whelks, sand dollars, starfish, and angel wings. The island has 21 miles
of beach to explore. After your visit, head to nearby beach towns for restaurants, bars, and
more fun.

Tips to Stay Safe on a Road Trip

Below are some tips to stay safe for your Texas road trip

● Know where you’re going and plan a route accordingly.
● Don’t talk and get distracted. Focus on the road.
● Buckle up, don’t multitask, and drive.
● Always carry a first-aid or an emergency kit.
● Keep your car ready. Make sure it’s road-ready before you set out on the road trip.
● Have a motor insurance plan. Since accidents are unpredictable, it’s better to be safe
than sorry.
● Contact a car accident attorney if you are involved in a car crash.

And that’s a wrap! Texas is stunning, and there’s so much more to discover, but we have
only covered the best-hidden spots in the state. So, make sure to check these places and
have a lovely trip!

If I could only travel to one place on Earth it would 100% be wine country! This was my 3rd trip out to wine country in California. I was in Napa the first two times I went, and this time I was so excited to explore Sonoma. This trip was even better because it was a blogger event to help raise money for those affected by the horrible fires last fall. I mean how could I say no to drinking wine for a good cause?!

I had several of you ask me about my favorite wineries and restaurants so I’m giving you a full wine country travel guide today! Scroll down for all the deets!!

SONOMA WINERIES

Littorai: This might be at the top of our list forever. Not only because the wines are outstanding, but because Littorai is a bio-dynamic and organic winery. Meaning they don’t use any pesticides and it’s probably some of the cleanest wine you’ll ever drink. The best Pinot Noir I’ve ever had in my life!

Obsidian Ridge: Who doesn’t want to have a wine tasting in an actual vineyard?! They actually aren’t open to the public, but if you book with my friend Corey (aka: Napa Wine Guide) he might be able to pull some strings…

Buena Vista: This place is the oldest winery in the Napa/Sonoma area. Lots of amazing history, and some pretty interesting wine rooms so definitely take the tour!

Scribe:Absolutely beautiful! This place is really just for wine tasting and not actually going out in the vineyard, but it’s a great spot to stop for lunch.

Matanzas Creek:You’ve got to go for the wine, but also for the lavender barn!

Repris Winery:Another organic winery with some of the biggest and boldest wines I’ve tasted. You must take the tour because the wine caves are to die for here!

Dutcher Crossing Winery: Definitely some of the best wines of the weekend! Their story is amazing too, and you’ll probably meet the owner. She is seriously the sweetest!!

Reeve Wines: This winery by far has the best decor! The patio area is absolutely gorgeous, and we wanted to sit there all day long. Also, the best Zinfandel wine which is my personal favorite!

Jordan Winery: If you’ve ever tried Jordan wine then you’ll want to go here! But, make an appointment as soon as you book your trip because they only take appointments and fill up fast. We didn’t get to go But that just means I have to go back again!

Medlock Ames: We met Sonoma Grape Girl during the fundraising event on Saturday, and she works here so of course we had to go! It’s actually one of the few wineries in the area that’s completely organic. I’m a fan of organic wine because they don’t give me bad hangovers…yes please.

Trione Winery: Beautiful venue for events! The first photo in this post is from Trione.

NAPA WINERIES

Elhers Estate: Best tasting room for a larger winery. It’s so freaking cute and cozy. This was our first stop on my second trip to Napa. I only drink reds so if you’re like me then they were a great place to do a tasting.

Frank Family Vineyards: I haven’t personally been to Frank Family, but it’s my dads absolute favorite wine. Cory (best tour guy in Napa) took them when they visited a few years ago, and now my dad basically only buys this wine. Lucky me, every time I go home I know I’ll get to drink amazing wine!

Spence Vineyards: Probably my absolute favorite experience in Napa. The owners randomly fell into the wine making business, and they are doing a pretty darn good job. The vineyard is at the top of Howell Mountain in Napa with the most peaceful views. Check out my post from their vineyard here. Also, they have two yellow labs who hang out with you while you’re there!

Porter Family Vineyards: Okay if you want some incredible views of the valley then you have to put this place at the top of your list. This was the last wine tour on my first visit to Napa, and we spent wayyyy too much time here. But when you’re having a good time and your tour guy is friends with the owner there are perks

SONOMA/HEALDSBURG RESTAURANTS

The Girl & The Fig:This place is so good I ate here twice on my last trip to wine country! You all know I’m a foodie so that says a LOT about how amazing this place is…

Willie’s Seafood: OMG… Order the bread!! I think that’s almost all I ate that night because it was ah-mazing. Oh, and I love carbs.

Flying Goat Coffee: Great little place in Healdsburg to grab really good coffee and pastries. We might have got donuts too from the place down the street. #guilty

Spoonbar: If you are looking for a nicer dinner spot then this is the place to go. I wanted everything on the menu because it looked so pretty. Get the donuts for dessert!! Also, definitely the best spot in town for cocktails!

The Parish Cafe: Great casual spot we went to for breakfast. Makes you feel like a local. And delicious food.

Campo Fina: After a day of drinking who doesn’t want pizza? It’s kinda small so try to make a reservation before you are a few glasses of wine deep.

NAPA RESTAURANTS

Archetype: We stumbled upon this place for brunch the second time I was in Napa and it was probably the best find ever. I still remember how incredible the lemon-ricotta pancakes were to this day. It was so good we grabbed appetizers here on my last visit. Also, it’s the cutest spot for pictures!

Bottega: There are 3 restaurants that have the best pasts EVER… This place is one of them! And the other two are Italy and a place in Dallas that is basically like Italy.

Solbar: We went to this place for appetizers and wine. Their patio is absolutely stunning and I could sit there all night long over wine and great conversation.

Gott’s Roadside: Okay look… If you are going to be drinking wine all day long you need something substantial to eat. My hangover food is a juicy burger. So if eating a delicious cheeseburger while you’re day drinking I think it helps!

The French Laundry: This is probably the one placed you’ve heard of anytime you ask for recommendations. I’ve never been because they are always booked, but it’s at the top of my list for my next visit!

PLACES TO STAY IN WINE COUNTRY

Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn

Boon hotel + spa

235 Suites: Amazing luxury suites for large groups or families. Right in the middle of Healdsburg, and a quick ride to all the Sonoma wineries.

Farmhouse Inn: If there is one place I could stay every time I visit wine country it would be here! Check out my video from our stay on my second visit to Napa.

Harvest Inn: A perfect location in between Napa and Sonoma. The property feels like you’re staying in Charlie Palmer’s old house.

Hennesey House: I’m pretty sure we stayed here on my first visit to Napa, but it’s been a while… Haha. It’s a cute traditional bed and breakfast right in the center of Napa. Beware there is a code to get in the front door after like 9am… We may or may not have forgotten the code and luckily found a random attic door open.

There are clearly a ton of options when visiting wine country, but I hope my personal ventures have helped give you some good recommendations. I’ve decided I think I’ll have to go every year now… My birthday is in October which is harvest season so it just makes sense!!

If you want the best wine tours in Napa you need to book with our family friend Cory Waken! He grew up in the area and knows everyone. He takes care of booking the tours because some of the places you will go aren’t open to the public. Like Spence Winery… We sat on the back porch of the owners home, eating bacon wrapped figs, and chatting it up like we’d known them for ages. You won’t get that experience with anyone else!!

Sometimes I wonder why I live in Texas… It’s a question I ask my self after every trip. I mean if I could at least live somewhere else during the month of August I’ll take it. I’m sure most of you would agree with me, right? Aspen would 100% be at the top of my list for places to live during the summer. I grew up going to the Colorado mountains so it just feels like it’s what I’m supposed to do. I remember driving up to the mountains in our “big green van” and I always looked forward to feeding the chipmunks! P.S. It was the highlight of this last trip too.

Since I’ve been to the Aspen area quite a few times now, and I have a new client for Muse Consultants up there I thought it was about time to do a travel guide. Basically, it’s all the things I love about the area! I’ve been four times since June of 2021 so I feel like I know a thing or two now about the area now…

I prefer going hiking over a lot of other summer outdoor activities. Although, coming face-to-face with a gray wolf on our hike in June was an experience that almost changed my mind… My ex-boyfriend and I were so close we locked eyes with him and saw the rabbit he had in his mouth. I honestly have no idea what went through my head at that split second, but thank the Lord he ran away. Anyway, there are some amazing hiking trails!

Also, it’s obviously a great place to go skiing in the winter but I prefer après ski.

ASPEN TRAVEL GUIDE

Let’s break this down by: restaurants, hotels, and things to do/hiking trails! If you are like me then the first thing I do before a vacation is look up what restaurants I’m going to…anyone else? Then I’ll figure out what to do while I’m there to burn off the calories.

FAVORITE RESTAURANTS

ACQUOLINA

Incredible pasta and such a cozy atmosphere. They have one of our favorite wines too called Gaja!

AJAX TAVERN

Their cheeseburger and truffle french fries are AH-MAZING! Perfect to split with someone for lunch, and get the frosé – it’s so delicious!

BETULA

We met my boyfriends client and his wife here for dinner back in June… I was obsessed. They have this tequila drink that comes in a cute little bird glass and it’s SO tasty. The food is incredible too, but the rooftop vibes are really what it’s all about.

BEAR DEN

Three words… Spicy truffle aioli. Do I need to say more? I got it on my egg sandwich and went into food heaven. It’s the cutest little house that serves all the things. We went for brunch which I highly recommend because their coffee was some of the best I’ve had too.

CASA TUA

This has been on my list for a while now, but I still haven’t had the chance to go! I’ve heard it’s an incredible Italian spot so believe me when I say I’m going next time. I don’t care if my functional medicine doctor told me to go gluten free…

CATCH STEAK

If you don’t get the flaming dessert here you’re an idiot. One of the BEST things I’ve ever had in my life. Don’t get me wrong, the steak is amazing too. I don’t even know if I remember it because I was in such a food daze from how delicious everything tasted. Their bar is really fun and great vibes too for drinks!

CLARK’S ASPEN

My absolute “go-to” spot while I’m visiting. Everything is just…good. It’s casual yet cozy. Good atmosphere. Great food and drinks. We at lunch here 3 times out of the 5 days we were there in February. Does that say anything?! Also, if you are a mac n’ cheese girl like me then you MUST order the “Shells & Cheese” with Lump Crab for your main dish – it was to die for. Literally.

FRENCH ALPINE BISTRO

I forgot how good this Aspen favorite is… Cheese fondue. That’s all you need to know.

J-BAR AT HOTEL JEROME

It’s the Aspen vibe. Always a good spot for any reason.

MEAT & CHEESE SHOP

Go for lunch and order the Italian Grinder! So yummy. Just a heads up that they don’t take reservations, so I recommend putting your name down and then shopping around until your table’s ready.

MATSUSHISA

Some of the best sushi and Japanese food! It’s pricey, but worth it – especially if you can go with a group and share plates!

WHITE HOUSE TAVERN

Part of the Hillstone Restaurant Group, so very similar menu to Honor Bar, Hillstone & R+D Kitchen! The Macho Salad and French dip are favorites!

HIKING TRAILS

First off, there are SO many hiking trails you really need to do your research before picking one. Almost every time I’ve done a hike it ALWAYS takes longer than expected. Also, you’ve got to wear layers because the weather will change once you start increasing your elevation!! Bring a backpack and more water than you think.

MAROON BELLS

Such an amazing view once you make it to the lake! Pro tip: rent e-bikes and cruise to the trail from downtown Aspen! It’s about a 14-mile bike ride each way, but the electric bike makes it a breeze and it’s a great way to see the town!

AMERICAN LAKE

This is the hike where we ran into the wolf and got rained on…super fun. But really, once you get up to the lake it’s gorgeous. I will say this is a pretty hard hike. It’s only about 3-miles total, but it’s a big elevation change! Plus, there is an area where you are climbing over a huge area of rocks.

CATHEDRAL LAKE

We didn’t hike this trail because American Lake was supposed to be easier so now that I did that I think I can handle this one!

INDEPENDENCE PASS

We woke up to 36 degree temps on a lovely August day so if it is colder outside I would absolutely recommend driving up the pass and doing some of the trails along the way. That’s where the rock cave picture is below!

FAVORITE HOTELS

THE LITTLE NELL

Ideal location right at the base of the mountain. It’s where everyone goes for Aprés ski! Extremely friendly staff and a very cute pool. They also have a wine bar room that is so fun.

VICEROY SNOWMASS

Absolutely LOVED staying here in August! It’s very peaceful and has one of my favorite restaurants. Great location for “ski in, ski out” and the mountain is a little easier than Aspen for skiing. The rooms were very spacious too with a mini kitchen which is great anyone who just wants to hibernate.

HOTEL JEROME

ST. REGIS ASPEN

If you have the money to stay here then by all means DO it, haha. You just feel fancy walking into the hotel and like you’re in another country. Their spa is also incredible!!

Obviously it depends what time of year you are visiting Aspen, but you can find outfit ideas for summer and winter which will help you decide what to pack! Aspen is a bit more fancy, but you’ll find people in all different things. If you live here in Dallas then think of it this way… Aspen = Dallas. Snowmass = Fort Worth.

After my last trip, I’m hoping to be back once a quarter so I’ll be updating this guide as much as possible!

Every time I visit Austin I remember how much I love the city. Honestly, I think if I had to move to another city in Texas I would have no trouble at all choosing Austin. I try to get down there at least twice a year if not more! Even though I’ve been so many times, I’m always finding new places to eat or areas I’ve never stumbled upon before. That’s why it was finally time to put together an “Austin City Guide” for you all filled with my favorite places to eat, stay, and things to do.

Plus, if you have extra time to spend in the area you’ve also gotta check out Fredericksburg which is Texas wine country just an hour outside of Austin! I’ll be heading back to Austin a few times this year so be sure to always check back here for updates!

AUSTIN CITY GUIDE

BREAKFAST/BRUNCH

Josephine House:

This quaint little house is absolutely picture perfect along with food you won’t want to eat because it looks so good! The avocado toast was absolutely delish!

Jo’s Coffee:

I know many of you are familiar with the “I Love You” sign in Austin. It’s on the side of the Jo’s Coffee building on South Congress, and I’ll just say this… I Love You Jo’s Coffee. As a coffee addict I’m dying for them to come to Dallas.

Irene’s:

Adorable spot for cute photos by their neon sign out front! Best to make a reservation.

Alfred Coffee:

Inside The Line Hotel where the “but first coffee” sign is picture above. Great spot for a meeting or grab n’ go and coffee is delish.

Elizabeth Street Cafe:

My new favorite Austin restaurant hands down. I will admit I was a little skeptical when I saw it was a Vietnamese cafe and French bakery… OMG… Delicious. I felt like I was transported back to Paris when I walked up and saw these adorable pink and blue doors! I guess if I can’t go to Paris I’ll take Elizabeth Street Cafe any day.

Launderette:

Went here for brunch over SXSW weekend and it’s actually an old laundromat which is super fun. Great healthier option if you are trying to be good, but of course I got donuts…

Perla’s:

Always the best “go-to” for brunch or lunch in Austin. Even if you don’t like seafood this place is a must!

South Congress Cafe:

You typical cute little diner where I would feel right at home going with no makeup and in workout clothes. I went here with my mom and had some of the best pancakes ever!

Moonshine:

A great spot for a group brunch experience. They’ve got an amazing bloody mary bar which I wish I drank them, but I’d sit here with mimosas for a Sunday Funday!

DINNER/DRINKS

P6:

Definitely the best spot in town to catch the sunset on their amazing rooftop. You look right out over the South Congress Bridge where you’ll be able to watch the bats at night too. I didn’t dislike anything on the menu and believe me we tried almost the entire menu!

Geraldine’s:

Love love love this spot for great live music while you eat or just get cocktails! They also have an incredible rooftop bar too. The menu is definitely made for sharing which is my favorite thing to do always… I’ve gotta try all the things!

Eberly:

The atmosphere is everything at this cozy spot. I had a not so fun experience here (not the food) where I saw my ex on a date so I don’t remember much of the food, but I know it was good enough to where I want to go back.

Swift’s Attic:

You walk upstairs (the attic) into this retro-chic hotspot, and it almost feels like you’re in New York or Chicago. It’s all shared plates which is great for a double date or birthday. They are known for their burger, but they had a special meatball dish the night we went so of course we had to try. Holy cow… Honestly, everything we ate was divine.

Olamie:

Quaint little spot with amazing cocktails and atmosphere. Definitely would be a good date night spot.

Sway:

I’m not a huge fan of Asian food, but they had this steak dish with some sauce that blew my mind. And I’ll never say no to fried rice…

Fixe:

Biscuits. Get the biscuits. That’s all.

Ah Sing Den:

Randomly walked into this bar while we were trying to find a spot to cap off the night. Everything about this place was so cool. Definitely at the top of my list for cocktails.

Salt Lick:

One of the best spots for BBQ! It’s actually outside of Austin, but the short drive will be so worth your time I promise!

Rainey Street:

There are so many fun spots on Rainey that you won’t be disappointed walking into any of them! Actually, I’d say spend an afternoon stopping into all of them…

STAY

The Line Hotel:

My new favorite hotel for sure! It’s right off Lady Bird Lake in Downtown Austin so convenient to get really anywhere in the city. I stayed recently and one of the AC units went out one night so they were SO nice and put us up in the presidential suite! The staff was incredibly nice, and they had masks plus hand sanitizer everywhere in the hotel for the current COVID safety measures.

I really like the pool because their lounge chairs are so dang comfortable! Plus, they have an incredible taco stand attached to the pool with pretty darn good drinks. The best thing… They are pet friendly!!

The Wayback:

If you’re looking for a weekend of rest and relaxation then look no further… You absolutely MUST stay here. It’s just outside of Austin in Texas Hill Country. There are only 8 adorable cottages on the property so if you’re thinking about booking I’d do it ASAP.

You can walk a few steps outside of your cottage to their quaint café and bar for any meal OR get room service and enjoy on your own outdoor patio area. The pool area is smaller, but so peaceful like you’re in your own backyard (but better…duh.). Everything about this place is seriously the cutest. I’d actually consider having my rehearsal dinner party here when I get married!

Hotel Saint Cecilia:

Famous for the “SOUL” sign by their pool! I’ve never stayed here, but been to several events here and it’s just the most charming place.

Hotel Van Zandt:

Another spot I’d never been to, and right by Rainey Street which is prime location. Great rooftop for drinks!

South Congress Hotel:

Can’t go wrong here… Away from the hustle, but right on Congress street where you can walk to tons of amazing spots. Definitely more of a chill vibe.

W Hotel:

Right next door to ACL Live! Great place to stay for a girls weekend or bachelorette party.

WHAT TO DO

South Congress Bridge Bats:

Did you all know there are thousands of bats that live under this bridge? People come out every night to watch them fly out from under the bridge and it’s kinda crazy!!

Lady Bird Lake:

I’ve wanted to rent a paddle board SO bad to go out on the lake. There are a lot of spots where you can find kayaks or paddle boards to rent.

Lake Travis:

One of the most popular lakes in Texas for a reason! I’ve never been out on the lake, but it’s at the top of my list to rent a boat one weekend.

Swimming Holes/Pools:

There are several little swimming spots to check out around Austin like Barton Springs, but if you don’t want to be out in nature a lot of hotel pools have day passes!

Hike/Walk:

So many great spots to go for a hike or walk! I love going for a morning walk around Lady Bird Lake when I’m staying at The Line!

South Congress Street:

An Austin “must do” area where you’ll find the “I love you” sign along with several cute boutiques and shops.

Austin Murals:

Greetings from Austin, I Love You wall, Willie Nelson and more spots you’ve gotta go see!

ACL Live:

The coolest concert experience ever! I was lucky enough to see Sam Smith perform here a couple of years ago, and I love it because you really get to see what the artist is really like. In Pennsylvania, the Benedum Center is another fantastic venue known for hosting a variety of memorable concerts and performances.

Circuit of the Americas:

My dad has season tickets to the new race track just outside of Austin where the popular Formula 1 Race is hosted. I went a couple of years ago not thinking I would really enjoy it, but I have to admit it’s pretty fun!

Did you like my Austin City Guide? So here’s my Chicago City Guide, Denver City Guide, and Dallas Restaurant Guide.