POTD: Cedar Park Heritage Festival
Saturday marked the second annual Cedar Park Heritage Festival, held beneath the Heritage Oak tree in town (which thankfully provided some much-needed shade on that 100 degree day.) The event showcased the heritage of this area that was formerly populated by cedar choppers who made their living cutting cedar posts on the acres of juniper trees that surround the community.
The one-day event included local arts and crafts:
blackpowder demonstrations:
performances by the Austin band, Duck Soup:
a demonstration by the K-9 division of the Cedar Park Police Department:
and squaredancing demonstrations:
Labels: Festivals, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 12:25 PM
POTD: Dime Box Museum
This sign pointing to the Dime Box Museum just might be one of our favorite directional signs in Texas. The museum showcases the history of tiny Dime Box, located southeast of Austin. The town is named for the box where residents could once mail a letter, dropping a dime inside to cover postage.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 5:34 PM
POTD: "Welcome Home," Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
This sculpture, titled "Welcome Home," by L. Heather MCMahan is on display at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The boots are clay reproductions of desert issue combat boots. The artist says, "It is my way of saying 'Thank you'; "Welcome Home' and 'Godspeed' to our men and women in the armed forces..."
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 8:24 PM
POTD: Austin Fountain, Bicentennial Time Capsule
This fountain provides a quiet backdrop just across the street from Austin's new Long Performing Arts Center.
Near the fountain, you'll see a plaque for the Bicentennial Time Capsule, housing the story of how Austin celebrated the 1976 Bicentennial. The marker calls for the reopening of the capsule on July 4, 2075.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 9:07 AM
POTD: Cedar Chopper Barbecue Cookoff
More photos from this weekend's first annual Cedar Chopper Barbecue Cook-Off in Cedar Park, northwest of Austin.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 8:23 AM
POTD: Barbecue Cookoff
Did you know that May is National Barbecue Month? Texas doesn't really need designated month since barbecue's definitely a year-around activity here but May does kick off the barbecue cookoff season. Look for competitions throughout the state as cooks compete for cash prizes in categories including brisket, ribs, chicken, sausage, beans and sometimes wild game. This shot was taken at the first Cedar Chopper Barbecue Cookoff in Cedar Park last weekend.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 8:27 AM
POTD: Cedar Park's First Annual BBQ Cookoff
Saturday was a hot, windy day in Cedar Park but numerous attendees showed up to same the 'que from the first annual AT&T and Cedar Park Chamber of Commerce Cedar Chopper Barbecue Cookoff.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 8:17 AM
POTD: First Cedar Chopper BBQ Cookoff
This weekend marked the first AT&T and Cedar Park Chamber of Commerce Cedar Chopper Barbecue Cook-Off. The event was held near the new Cedar Park hospital just east of 183A. Although the temperatures approached 100 degrees (and that's without the extra heat from the smokers!), attendance was good. We'll run a series of photos from this first-time event in our Photo of the Day feature this week.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 8:10 AM
POTD: Easter Island Statues, Hunt
Inspiration for this and one other statue near Hunt, Texas are located on one of the most isolated places on the planet: Easter Island. These stone icons known as
moai total 887 and were created between 1400 and 1600 AD, constructed to represent the spirits of island ancestors.
At Stonehenge II outside of Hunt, however, you won't find 887
moai but just two. They're located on the opposite sides of the Stonehenge II creation.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:59 PM
POTD: Stonehenge II, Hunt
This replica of England's Stonehenge, called Stonehenge II, is located on private land just out of Hunt on FM 1340. You'll find a sign with more information on the structure; two Easter Island
moai are also found here and make great photos.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 4:22 PM
POTD: Helium Time Columns, Amarillo
The Helium Time Columns Monument and Museum, located in Amarillo just outside the Don Harrington Discovery Center, definitely ranks as an unusual Texas sight. The four columns are filled with books and memorabilia about life in 1968. Why 1968? Why, that was the 100th anniversary of the year when helium was discovered.
To make things a little more unusual, the books are sealed in a helium-filled atmosphere, one that's not to be opened until the year 2550.
Labels: Panhandle Plains, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 5:24 PM
POTD: Route 66
The historic Route 66, sometimes called the Mother Road, traveled right through Amarillo, Today the stretch of that famous former route is lined with antiques shops and an attraction in its own right.
Labels: Panhandle Plains, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 5:18 PM
POTD: Long Center for the Performing Arts
The
Long Center for the Performing Arts is Austin's newest venue, located on the south shores of Lady Bird Lake across from Auditorium Shores. The center is home to a studio theater as well as the 2400-seat Michael & Susan Dell Hall, a grand concert hall.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:50 PM
POTD: Cascarones, San Antonio
Fiesta San Antonio just wrapped up last weekend but you can bet that the remains of cascarones like these still dot the San Antonio streets. These confetti-filled eggshells, topped with tissue paper to hold in their sparkling bounty, are intended to be broken over the heads of fiesta goers. The tradition first started in Mexico and, even though it might be messy, is said to bring you good luck.
Labels: Photo of the Day, San Antonio
posted by Paris and John @ 2:46 PM
POTD: Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport
This weekend we passed through the Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport, seen here. Just this month, the Houston Airport System (in partnership with Continental Airlines) announced that it will be spending $1.2 billion on a renovation and expansion of the airport. The project will expand Terminal B from 360,000 square feet to 1.7 million square feet, bigger than the city's Minute Maid Park. Look for work to start later this year and continue for the next seven to ten years.
Labels: Houston, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:37 PM
POTD: Austin's Pennybacker Bridge
This scenic bridge is located on Loop 360 or Capital of Texas Highway on the west side of Austin. This bridge spans Lake Austin and is made of weathered steel.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:24 PM
POTD: Texas Tombstone
As we travel the roads and backroads of Texas, we're always on the lookout for Texas shaped objects. Through the years we've seen everything from Texas-shaped mailboxes to a drive-thru burger joint in the shape of the Lone Star State. Last month we spotted this Texas shaped tombstone located in a cemetery in Burnet.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 10:15 AM
POTD: Oatmeal School and Church
Today the home of the Oatmeal Church of Christ, this historic building has long served the community of Oatmeal in Burnet County. Built in 1869, the stone structure was once a combined church and school.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 12:30 PM
POTD: Wild Basin, Austin
For a close look at the terrain, flora, and fauna of the Hill Country, step out of the city at Wild Basin, a wilderness preserve located just minutes from downtown Austin. The 227-acre sanctuary includes three miles of trails that wind through the brush; an easy-access trail is also available.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:19 PM
POTD: Oatmeal Water Tower
Texas has some pretty unique watertowers (Luling's watermelon water tower comes to mind first!) but this water stand pipe in Oatmeal ranks right up there. Painted like a box of oatmeal, the tower promotes the annual Oatmeal Festival which actually outgrew the community of Oatmeal and had to be moved to nearby Bertram. The festival takes place every Labor Day weekend.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:24 PM
POTD: Hippie Hollow, Austin
Located northwest of Austin on the shores of Lake Travis, Hippie Hollow (officially McGregor/Hippie Hollow Park) is best known for one thing...or lack of one thing: clothes. This clothing-optional park is for adults only and is Texas's only public clothing-optional park. A day use fee is charged per car.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 1:18 PM
POTD: National Museum of the Pacific War to Expand
The National Museum of the Pacific War, part of the Admiral Nimitz State Historic Site in Fredericksburg, will soon be undergoing the ground breaking ceremony for a 40,000-square-foot expansion. The event will take place on May 9 when Governor Rick Perry will speak at the event. General Michael W. Hagee, the Former Commandant of the Marine Corps, and a Director of the Admiral Nimitz Foundation (and a Fredericksburg native) will serve as the Master of Ceremonies.
The Event: May 9, 2008. Ceremony is scheduled for 11am followed by a free barbecue in the adjacent parking lot.
Location: 311 East Austin Street, Fredericksburg
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 12:34 PM
POTD: Handblown Glasses
The blue rimmed glasses from Mexico are our favorite, and we've bought them at towns all along the Texas-Mexico border. This shot was taken at our favorite close to home import shopping area: San Antonio's El Mercado, the largest Mexican market in the US.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:45 PM
POTD: Cedar Park Cave Day
On Saturday we attended Cedar Park's Cave Day, a twice-annual event that looks at some of the 800+ caves found in Williamson County. Caver Bill Larson (in the black t-shirt) points out a cave on the new Discovery Well Preserve.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 4:19 PM
POTD: Sage or Salvia Wildflowers
Sage or salvia is blooming along along the Edwards Plateau now or it can be seen at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin. This shot was taken at the TexasTripper offices near Lake Travis. It's a favorite with hummingbirds.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:41 PM
POTD: Wild Turkey
We saw this wild turkey near Cedar Park the other day; it seems like spring and fall are always good months for spotting these tall birds.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 4:05 PM
POTD: Beware of Flash Flooding
This shot was taken last summer on the road to Castell, just south of TX 29 between Llano and Mason. As you can see, the Llano River is flooding the roadway. Be sure to keep an eye out for water over the roadways, especially at night. With the hilly, rocky conditions in the Hill Country, this region is especially prone to flash flooding, and deaths occur every year as drivers try to cross flooded roadways. Spring and early summer are especially dangerous times for flash flooding.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:32 PM
POTD: Dell Diamond, Round Rock
It's a definite sign of spring that baseball season is underway. This shot was taken last season at the Dell Diamond in Round Rock, home of the Round Rock Express, a Minor League Baseball Class AAA affiliate of the Houston Astros.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:18 PM
POTD: Bluebonnet Closeup
Bluebonnets are really coming out after some rains last week in the Hill Country. Although it might not be as spectacular as last year's crop, the roadways are lined with the state flower and the coming days promise more blooms. This shot was taken along FM 1431 west of Cedar Park.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:50 PM
POTD: Philosphers' Rock, Austin
This statue, called "Philosopher's Rock," stands in Austin's Zilker Park at the entrance to Barton Springs and was sculpted by Glenna Goodacre. The three philosphers portrayed here are J. Frank Dobie, Roy Bedichek and Walter Prescott Webb, all Texas authors.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:28 PM
POTD: Dinosaur at Zilker Park
At the Hartman Prehistoric Garden in Austin's Zilker Park, don't be surprised this Ornithomimus dinosaur. This bronze statue was designed by local sculptor John Maisano and cast in Bastrop.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:53 PM
POTD: Wedding Oak, San Saba
This massive oak tree dates back about 400 years and is listed as one of the most famous trees in Texas. Called Wedding Oak, the tree is located about a mile north of San Saba on China Creek Road.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 4:11 PM
POTD: Mill Pond Park, San Saba
Quiet Mill Pond Park in San Saba is home to this springfed lake and waterfalls, a gazebo, picnic sites, and more.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:21 PM
POTD: Swedish Log Cabin, Austin
This historic log cabin stands in Austin's Zilker Park in the Botanical Gardens. Built in 1838, this cabin was built by a Swedish settler who encouraged immigration to the region.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 8:39 PM
POTD: Willow City Loop
It's still a little bit early but the coming weeks will bring plenty of travelers to Willow City Loop, one of the top wildflower drives in the state. The loop is located between Fredericksburg and Llano off TX 16; from TX 16, turn onto FM 1323 and enjoy the slow, winding drive.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 4:02 PM
POTD: Marble Falls
You'll no longer see any marble waterfalls in Marble Falls but you will see a beautiful, constant level lake: Lake Marble Falls. The small lake is one in the series of Highland Lakes that begins with the massive Lake Buchanan and winds its way through the Hill Country and into Austin.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 9:36 AM
POTD: New Corn Hill
The Holy Trinity Catholic Church, easy to spot with its twin spires, is the most noticeable building in New Corn Hill, a small farming community located northeast of Georgetown near
Walburg and
Jarrell. And why is this NEW Corn Hill? Well, because there was once an Old Corn Hill, located to the west closer to Jarrell.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 1:30 PM
POTD: Pompeo Coppini Statue in Gonzales
This statue which commemorates the first shot fired in the fight for Texas independence stands in Gonzales, Texas. The 1910 work was sculpted by Pompeo Coppini, the Italian-born and Florence-trained sculptor who later came to Texas and today is buried in San Antonio.
Labels: Photo of the Day, Prairies and Lakes
posted by Paris and John @ 4:45 PM
POTD: Regency Bridge
The Regency Bridge, located north of San Saba or west of Goldthwaite, is one of the last suspension bridges for vehicular traffic in Texas. If you'd like to hop aboard for a ride across the bridge, check out our
video of this interesting country bridge.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 8:27 PM
POTD: Bluebonnet Season Approaches
It won't be long until bluebonnet season; we should start seeing the first of the bluebonnets toward the end of March. This shot was taken along RM 1431 last year (which was a big bluebonnet year). It's hard to say if this year will boast a good crop of bluebonnets but we're not expecting one since it was such a dry winter. Even if the bluebonnet fields are sparser this year, however, expect to see some pretty scenes in the coming weeks.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 12:15 PM
POTD: Camp Verde General Store
Camp Verde was the site of one of the most unusual experiments in the Texas Hill Country: an attempt to create a Camel Corp at Fort Verde in 1856. The camels didn't last but the store did; today the General Store is a fun place to shop or grab a Coke.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 9:04 AM
POTD: Mount Bonnell, Austin
This is the view from atop Mount Bonnell, which is perched about 780 feet above sea level. (It's not nosebleed territory...although you might feel like it is after a hike up the steps from the parking lot.) The park overlooks Lake Austin and it has been a popular site with visitors since the 1800s.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:30 PM
POTD: Padre Balli Statue
During this week, known as Texas Week since most Texas public schools and universities are off for Spring Break, attention turns to South Padre Island. This spring break hotspot is named for Padre Jose Nicolas Balli who inherited the island from his parents and established Rancho Santa Cruz here. This statue of Padre Balli can be seen at the eastern foot of the Queen Isabella Causeway.
Labels: Gulf Coast, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 1:40 PM
POTD: Chadwick's Mill Marker, near Lometa
On our Texas travels, we've seen a lot of historical markers but this one is definitely unique thanks to its grindstone. This marker for Chadwick's Mill, located on US 190 about nine miles west of Lometa, remembers Chadwick's Mill. This mill, used as a sawmill, flour mill and cotton gin, was built here in 1874 by Henry Chadwick and his son, Milam, and powered by a dam across the river. For a while the site was so popular it became a resort with a hotel and dance platform but a change in the river course in 1915 caused the mill to be abandoned.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:54 PM
POTD: W.M. Brook Park, Lampasas
This weekend we visited the W.M. Brook Park in Lampasas, just starting to show the first signs of spring. The 100+ acre park is located just blocks from downtown on Sulphur Creek and offers fishing, picnic grounds, and a large playscape.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 9:20 PM
POTD: Ride 'Em Cowboy!
This colorful statue livens up the drive along US 281 in Johnson City. It stands at the entrance to Johnson City's Best Western.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 1:29 PM
POTD: The Alamo
In the predawn hours of March 6, 1836, the fall of the Alamo took place in San Antonio. Today the site is San Antonio's most visited attraction. [Read more about the
Battle of the Alamo.]
Labels: Photo of the Day, San Antonio
posted by Paris and John @ 4:15 PM
POTD: Miniature Horses, Brenham
The
Monastery of St. Clare Horse Ranch, located near Brenham, is the home of these miniature horses. The horse ranch is open to the public for self-guided tours.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 4:04 PM
POTD: Hare, Texas
You may not be familiar with the community of Hare, located about 45 miles northeast of Austin (and east of Taylor). The community, which many say was named for the many cottontails here, only has a population of about a dozen people today but is home to the colorful Pancho and Lefty's Bar, popular for its karaoke and its eight-pound burger challenge (four pounds of which is hamburger meat, the rest is cheese, lettuce, pickles and a jumbo bun.)
Labels: Photo of the Day, Prairies and Lakes
posted by Paris and John @ 3:01 PM
POTD: Downtown Smithville
We're not sure if this "ghost" sign in downtown Smithville is genuine or just a relic from a previous movie shoot (the town was the setting for the Sandra Bullock film "Hope Floats" and is currently the setting for a new Brad Pitt movie.)
Labels: Photo of the Day, Prairies and Lakes
posted by Paris and John @ 2:30 PM
POTD: Enchanted Rock
Spring means the perfect time for a climb up Enchanted Rock, located between Fredericksburg and Llano. (Don't wait for summer...it's a griddle up there!) This is the second largest stone monolith outside of Georgia's Stone Mountain. If you plan a visit here on the weekend, be sure to arrive early; the number of visitors daily is limited.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 9:38 AM
POTD: San Marcos River Tubing
It won't be long until summer (and with the 90+ degree temperatures earlier this week it doesn't seem like long at all!) One of the top ways to celebrate summer in central Texas is an afternoon of inner tubing...better known as "toobin'" ... in San Marcos or New Braunfels. This shot was taken in San Marcos; during the season, the Lion's Club rents tubes for use on the San Marcos River and provides pickup service.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:03 PM
POTD: Kerr County Market Days
Springtime means a return to Market Days across the state, especially in small towns. This shot was taken at Kerrville's Kerr County Market Days, a family-friendly market that takes place on the fourth Saturday of every month from April through November and the third Saturday in December. Held on the courthouse square, the free event features handcrafts and artwork as well as greenery and plenty of barbecue.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 1:34 PM
POTD: Dime Box
Named for the postal box where early residents could drop a letter and a dime for postage, the central Texas town of
Dime Box remembers its heritage with a dime in a box. This recreation of a Liberty dime is located on FM 141.
Labels: Photo of the Day, Prairies and Lakes
posted by Paris and John @ 3:26 PM
POTD: Tourist Trap Room, The Broken Spoke, Austin
Austin's Broken Spoke is a legendary Texas honky tonk, a place that has sent toes tapping since 1964. To celebrate its 25th anniversary in 1989, the restaurant/bar/dance hall opened "The Tourist Trap Room" filled with memorabilia ranging from LBJ's hat to photos and sheet music. Through the years, this hall has hosted some of country music's biggest names including Ernest Tubbs, Roy Acuff, Hank Thompson, Tex Ritter, Ray Price, Willie Nelson, George Strait, and many others.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:26 PM
POTD: Zilker Zephyr Miniature Train
All aboard! The Zilker Zephyr is a pint-sized train that makes a 25-minute, three-mile loop through Austin's Zilker Park. A favorite with kids, the ride is fun for adults, too, and costs under $3 for adults. The train station is located adjacent to Barton Springs; departures are on the hour on weekdays and every half hour on weekends.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 5:37 PM
POTD: Old Tunnel Wildlife Management Area
Located between Fredericksburg and Comfort, this former railroad tunnel is home to over three million bats from April through October. You'll find an observation deck here above the tunnel or walk down the stairs for this view. The site is part of the
Texas Parks and Wildlife system; you'll find educational displays here about the bats that can be seen before sunrise and after sunset each day during the season.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 5:07 PM
POTD: Old Yeller Statue, Mason
This statue of Old Yeller stands in front of the Mason Public Library in Mason, Texas. The famous story, which became a Disney movie, was written by Mason native Fred Gipson.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:30 PM
POTD: Bandera Brands
Brands fill the sidewalk in a downtown Bandera park featuring the Great Western Trail.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:43 PM
POTD: San Gabriel River, Georgetown
The San Gabriel River flows through Georgetown and provides numerous swimming holes as well as the backdrop for a hike and bike trail and the San Gabriel Park.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:49 PM
POTD: Hillsboro Visitors Center
In Hillsboro, the MKT Depot (the Katy Depot) now serves as the home of the Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce and Hillsboro CVB. Stop in for brochures and maps and to look at the collection of railroad memorabilia.
Labels: Photo of the Day, POTD, Prairies and Lakes
posted by Paris and John @ 1:49 PM
POTD: Texas Animal Shelters
Happy Valentine's Day! We have a somewhat different photo of the day today, a shot of the Bulverde Humane Society. We recently adopted a new member of our family here; if you're looking for a new four-legged friend, don't forget about the many animal shelters and rescue groups across Texas! We found
Petfinder.com to be a great resource; they've got photos of animals across the state (from horses and birds to cats and dogs), all searchable by zip code, and you'll also find lists of shelters and rescue groups in your area!
Labels: Photo of the Day, POTD
posted by Paris and John @ 1:25 PM
POTD: Pictographs, Seminole Canyon
These mysterious pictographs are found in Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site, located near Del Rio. About 200 pictographs are found in this area, many beneath the rock overhangs that provided shelter from the hot sun. It is believed these pictographs date back about 7,000 years but their meaning has never been discovered.
Labels: Big Bend Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:54 PM
POTD: Texas Memorial Museum Doors
These Art Deco-style door pulls lead the way into the Texas Memorial Museum on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin. Dating back to the 1930s, the museum started as a state museum but is now part of the UT System and open to the public free of charge. Inside, you'll find displays on Texas natural history starting with the dinosaurs and continuing with displays of animals, rocks, plants, and all things Texan.
Labels: Photo of the Day, POTD
posted by Paris and John @ 10:44 AM
POTD: Laredo Border Crossing
This crossing from the US into Mexico wasn't too crowded the day we visited but returning from Mexico to the US can be a lengthier process. Remember, you can no longer just say that you are a US citizen upon your return; as of the end of January 2008, US citizens have to present documentation when walking or driving back into the US. Check the
US State Department website for a list of acceptable documentation such as a driver's license accompanied by a birth certificate. (Later you'll need a passport or passport card to be able to return to the US, something you already need if you're returning by air.)
Labels: Photo of the Day, POTD, South Texas Plains
posted by Paris and John @ 11:35 AM
POTD: Lovely Lavender
Did you know that lavender is an increasingly popular crop in the Hill Country? With a climate that's similar to France's lavender-growing Provence region, the Hill Country is seeing an increasing number of lavender farms plus lavender trails with the chance to pick your own fragrant stalks. Look for special lavender events in Blanco and Fredericksburg with the chance to visit lavender farms, sample foods that include lavender, shop for lavender oils and more.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 9:01 AM
POTD: Billy the Kid Statue, Hico
This statue by James Rice of Rice Galleries is titled "Billy" and commemorates Billy the Kid. Located in Hico, the statue is tied to the Billy the Kid legend that thrives in the town. According to local legend, Billy the Kid wasn't killed in a shootout with lawman Pat Garrett but instead died in Hico many years later under the name "Brushy" Bill Roberts. There's even a Billy the Kid Museum downtown that explains more about the interesting story.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:21 PM
POTD: Austin Bat Sculpture
This unique sculpture called "Night Wing", located on South Congress Avenue at the intersection of Barton Springs Road, is interesting not only for its bat shape but because it freely swivels with even a light breeze. The creation of artist Dale Whistler, the sculpture commemorates the largest urban bat colony in the country, found nearby beneath the Ann Richards Bridge (formerly called the Congress Avenue Bridge). The bats will be returning to Austin in March and will remain until late fall.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:15 PM
POTD: Redbud Fever
It won't be long until the redbud trees begin to show the first blooms of spring. This shot was taken last February in the Hill Country. A few more weeks and hopefully the first signs of spring will be making their appearance!
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 1:06 PM
POTD: Andrews
This marker stands at the original townsite of Andrews, a West Texas oil town. The town dates back to 1878 when buffalo hunter Henry Moore hand dug a water well here and paved the way for later settlers. The town is named for Richard Andrews, the first man to be killed in the Battle of Concepción during the Texas Revolution. The 1920s brought the discovery of oil to Andrews County, and it continues to be the region's biggest money producer today.
Labels: Big Bend Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 9:17 AM
POTD: Space Center Houston
Learn about the US space program at Space Center Houston, located adjacent to the Johnson Space Center (which is the mission control, training, and research facility for the NASA space program). At this visitors center, you'll learn about space travel in everyday terms. A full-scale mock-up of the space shuttle allows visitors to tour the flight deck while nearby an IMAX theater showcases large format films about space travel. Guided tram tours take visitors for a behind the scenes look at the Johnson Space Center to view Mission Control, the Space Shuttle Training Facility, or an underwater training area.
Labels: Gulf Coast, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 8:26 AM
POTD: Caddo Lake
The beauty of East Texas bayou country really shines at Caddo Lake, the only natural lake in the state of Texas (until it was artifically dammed for more control in the early 1900s). You'll find steamboat tours on the lake, plenty of fishing, and places for quiet reflection.
Labels: East TX Piney Woods, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:12 PM
POTD: Cutting Horse Capital of the World
Weatherford is known as the Cutting Horse Capital of the World...so it's only natural that this city 20 minutes from the DFW Metroplex would feature a cutting horse sculpture in front of the Chamber office.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 4:54 PM
POTD: Caldwell County Courthouse
If the Caldwell County Courthouse, seen here in a shot we took this Christmas, looks a little familiar to you, it just might be. This 19th century structure, notable for its Muldoon Blue sandstone facade, has played a starring role alongside Johnny Depp in a scene from the 1993 drama
What's Eating Gilbert Grape?, and the 19th century structure can also be viewed by movie buffs in the cult comedy favorite,
Waiting For Guffman.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 4:51 PM
POTD: Fort Mason
Fort Mason, which overlooks Mason from its hilltop perch, was abandoned in 1869 after serving its role to defend the region. Little by little, the dark stone used in the construction of the fort was carted off and used to build area buildings. Today you'll still see the foundations of many of the old buildings up here on Post Hill and this officers' quarters has been reconstructed on its original foundations. The fort makes a great lookout at the region.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:33 PM
POTD: Luling Pumpjacks
The city of Luling is home to nearly 200 pumpjacks within the city limits. Some of those pumpjacks have been decorated: look for this fighter plane as well as a football player, a girl eating a watermelon, a family of ducks, and many more fanciful characters on the money-making equipment.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:49 PM
POTD: Kerrville statue
This statue called "Wind and Rain" stands in Kerrville. The statue was a gift by the artist William Moyers and his wife, Neva, from Albuquerque. The statue portrays a cowboy and his horse, a fitting subject for the
Museum of Western Art.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 5:03 PM
POTD: Hill Country by Motorcycle
With its winding roads and beautiful scenic vistas, the Hill Country is growing in popularity as a motorcycle destination. This shot was taken just north of San Antonio on US 281. Some of the top motorcycle routes travel through Kerrville, Bandera, and Fredericksburg.
Every spring, Austin hosts one of the country's largest motorcycle rallies, the
Republic of Texas (ROT) Rally, this year scheduled for June 12-15, 2008.
Labels: Hill Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 12:19 PM
POTD: Austin Mural
This often photographed mural resembling a historic postcard is located in South Austin at Roadhouse Relics at 1720 South 1st Street. Stop in the shop while you're there; they've created signage for many movies.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 9:04 PM
POTD: Can You Name This Plant?
Here's a little bit different photo of the day today. This photo was taken just outside our office not far from Lake Travis. These weeds grow about three feet high during the summer and then, during each freeze, literally explode with a frozen "bloom" that lasts until the sun hits the icy bloom. We've heard these called freeze weeds but does any TexasTripper reader out there know their real name?
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 10:03 AM
POTD: Stevie Ray Vaughn Statue, Austin
Located on the south banks of LadyBird Lake (formerly Town Lake) in Austin, the Stevie Ray Vaughn statue is a popular stop on the lake's jogging trail. Sculpted by Ralph Helmick, the statue was erected in 1993 to honor the musician. We took this shot just over a week ago on a pretty January day when the walking/jogging trail was filled with Austinites and visitors enjoying the winter sunshine.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:16 PM
POTD: Austin City Limits Store
The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is home to an Austin City Limits store featuring items related to the popular television show filmed at the University of Texas at Austin.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 8:43 PM
POTD: Aztec Theatre, San Antonio
This Aztec head greets travelers strolling the River Walk in San Antonio, an invitation to visit the restored Aztec on the River. Since 1926, the elaborately decorated theater has entertained moviegoers.
The Aztec reopened following an extensive renovation but today it's closed again for construction with reopening anticipated for Spring 2008. You'll still find the restaurant and retail shops at river level opened during the project.
Labels: Photo of the Day, San Antonio
posted by Paris and John @ 12:30 PM
POTD: El Paso's Murchison Park
El Paso's Murchison Park provides a scenic overlook over both El Paso and neighboring Juarez.
Labels: Big Bend Country, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 11:32 AM
POTD: The Children's Museum of Houston
There's no missing The Children's Museum of Houston: just look for the giant yellow columns! The museum is aimed at youngsters up to age 12 and features interactive exhibits that keep children entertained and learning all at once.
Labels: Houston, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 12:35 PM
POTD: National Ranching Center, Lubbock
Early life on the plains is recalled at the National Ranching Center in Lubbock, located at Texas Tech University. The center, composed of historic buildings from throughout the region, hosts several special events throughout the year including a Christmas on the plains event which draws many visitors.
Labels: Panhandle Plains, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 4:34 PM
POTD: Go Spurs
San Antonio loves its Spurs and it loves basketball in general...so be prepared for some big crowds for Final Four this year! The basketball championships will be held this April in the Alamodome.
Labels: Photo of the Day, San Antonio
posted by Paris and John @ 1:49 PM
POTD: World War I Doughboy, Flatonia
This World War I Doughboy statue stands in Flatonia in front of the American Legion hall. Erected in 1989, the sculpture was the work of local sculptor Gene A. Mikulik, Sr., himself a member of this American Legion post. The doughboy portrayed is Willie J. Migl, US Army, World War I.
Labels: Photo of the Day, Prairies and Lakes
posted by Paris and John @ 5:15 PM
POTD: Go Fly a Kite!
March is just around the corner so get ready to test your kite flying skills. This shot was taken near Lubbock, Texas where spring winds can challenge the best of kite flyers!
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:11 PM
POTD: Tejas Warrior Statue, Fair Park
At Fair Park in Dallas, the Hall of State is home to this "Tejas Warrior" statue which stands 11 feet and is gilded in bronze with gold leaf.
Labels: Dallas, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:19 PM
POTD: Whaling Wall, South Padre Island
The 53rd in a series of walls painted by environmental artist Wyland, this is the only such wall located in Texas. The wall of orcas (actually three walls) is located on the outside of the South Padre Convention Centre and can be viewed anytime.
Labels: Gulf Coast, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:51 PM
POTD: Presidential Thoughts
A visitor at the Bush Presidential Library in College Station mulls over all things presidential.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:47 PM
POTD: Austin Zoo
TexasTripper's Paris Permenter meets a friendly llama at the
Austin Zoo, a unique facility located southwest of the capital city. The Austin Zoo, a non-profit organization, is home for many rescued and abandoned animals and a great place for families to visit. It's far more low key than the big city zoos, a nice place to spend a few hours at a relaxed pace.
Labels: Austin, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 12:04 PM
POTD: A Look Back at the Freeze of '07
Last January brought an incredible freeze to the Hill Country, glazing everything in so much ice and a little snow and leaving much of the area at a standstill for a few days. January is typically the time for ice and snow in this area so we'll see what this month will bring!
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 3:37 PM
POTD: Get Ready to Sneeze!
It's that time of year again: cedar fever season in central Texas! The male juniper trees are now dotted with these yellow buds, ready to send pollen off into the air with the slightest breeze. Sometimes the pollen in central Texas and the Hill Country is so thick it is mistaken for smoke. Cedar season continues into February and is at its peak on dry, windy days.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:25 PM
POTD: Market Square, San Antonio
Tomorrow is the day of the Valero Alamo Bowl in San Antonio when Penn State squares off against Texas A&M at the Alamodome.
If you're headed to San Antonio for the game, save time for a visit to at least some of the attractions of the Alamo City including Market Square (above), home of the country's largest Mexican market at El Mercado as well as great Tex-Mex (don't miss Mi Tierra).
You'll find more of our favorites in our free downloadable The Football Fans' Guide to San Antonio. You can download a copy at
http://www.texastripper.com/san-antonio/football-fans-san-antonio.pdf then print it and take it along on your trip.
Labels: Photo of the Day, San Antonio
posted by Paris and John @ 2:09 PM
POTD: Downtown Elgin
Elgin, located east of Austin on US 290, maintains a classic small town Texas look, one so authentic it has been used as the backdrop for many movies. If you've seen
Varsity Blues,
The Great Waldo Pepper, or several other Hollywood films, you just might have caught a glimpse of Elgin.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 11:48 AM
POTD: Gonzales County Courthouse
The Gonzales County Courthouse sits in the background of the Texas Heroes Square, festive for the holidays.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 9:29 PM
POTD: Yule Trail, Moulton, Texas
Tiny Moulton, located east of Gonzales, celebrates the season with a pedestrian Yule Trail including sign recalled the area's Czech heritage.
Labels: Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 1:46 PM
POTD: Bastrop's River of Lights
Bastrop, located east of Austin, celebrates the season with its River of Lights, a walkway along the banks of the Colorado River. You'll find entrances at Ferry Park and Fisherman's Park.
Labels: holidays, Photo of the Day
posted by Paris and John @ 2:07 PM
blackpowder demonstrations:
performances by the Austin band, Duck Soup:
a demonstration by the K-9 division of the Cedar Park Police Department:
