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Imagine sitting beneath the shadow of a 14th century tower clock, sipping a Belgian beer and listening to the carillon play. A pleasant server brings you a plate of local cold cuts and cheeses to complement your beverage. The bells of the carillon play a familiar tune that make your heart sing as you enjoy an afternoon drinking in the culture while you visit Lier. After your break, you take a walk in the quiet streets, admiring the Flemish architecture, snapping photos along the way of the picturesque streets adding to your repertoire of travel memories.
This post contains affiliate links; if you click through and purchase something I may receive payment.
Lier is a French commune that was granted city rites in 1212. It is located in the Flanders region of Northern Belgium. Located on the Nete river, Lier was settled in the 8th century and developed around the chapel of St. Peter. Lier became an important textile centre in the 14th century. It was besieged and taken by the Spanish in 1582, by the Dutch in 1595, and by the English in 1706 during the War of the Spanish Succession. Belgian nationalists resisted a Dutch attack in 1830. Belgium has seen its fair share of war and occupation.
Destruction of Lier occurred as a result of bombing in Antwerp in 1914; however, many of the medieval structures survived including, the Gothic belfry, St. Gommarus’ Church and the béguinage.
Small-Town Travel Tip: Call me old fashioned, but I still like a paper map to navigate streets, especially towns with historical significance. Download your town map of Lier here to find your way around the charming town and its historical sites. You can also get a copy at the Town Hall when you visit Lier.
Founded in 1258, the béguinage at Lier is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A monumental blue stone gate dating to 1690 marks entrance to the béguinage. Crowning the gate is a terracotta statue of Saint Begga which dates to 1777. Saint Begga is the patron saint of the béguines. The béguinage were private courts where women lead a religiously inspired but independent life. They took vows of purity and obedience but not vows of poverty. The béguines provided for themselves by weaving, making lace and embroidery. There was great harmony between spiritual and material life. Governed by a grand lady, they could leave the béguinage at any time.
Construction of Saint Margarita church in the béguinage began in 1664. The church was consecrated in 1671. A hundred years later, the upper part of the facade was completed along with the clock tower. The time difference in construction is evident in the architectural styles. The church is austere baroque and the bell tower shows rococo influence. The building is dedicated to Saint Margaret of Antioch, martyr and patroness of the Lier béguinage.
Built during the Middle Ages, the almshouses in Lier helped to house the elderly, sick and needy. The quaint, sturdy buildings are the history of charity from the Middle Ages. The commune consists of small, connected houses and an inner garden. You can purchase Lier lace and embroidery in the Saint Beatrix almshouse. Be quiet and respectful due to the fact that people still live there.
The construction of the St. Gummarus church began in 1378 and took about 200 years to complete. Clearly noticeable are the different architecture styles of the church, the lower sections are Gothic, the middle baroque, and the tower roof of 83 metres is rococo. Construction of the tower took nearly four centuries. You can climb 296 steps up the tower to get a view of Lier.
Saint Peter’s chapel is opposite the Sint-Gummarus church. The tiny church is the only Romanesque building in Lier and probably also the oldest. The original chapel dates to 1225. Fire destroyed the chapel during WWI; however, it was rebuilt in 1922.
The Zimmer Tower is the best-known landmark in Lier with the Zimmer Clock at its centre. The tower is from the 14th century, which was part of the city wall at the time. Conversion of the tower into the current landmark took place in the 1930s.
In the Zimmermuseum you can discover the life work of Louis Zimmer, an amateur but brilliant astronomer. The museum is located beside the Zimmer clock. For the World Exhibition in Brussels in 1935, Louis Zimmer built his masterpiece, the Miracle Clock, far ahead of its time in precision. The Zimmermuseum is an exhibition about time and space and a must-see for clock lovers.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the gothic belfry of the Town Hall was built in 1369 and is a symbol of freedom and independence. In the Middle Ages, the bell rang in case of storm emergencies. Also, the Town Hall stored an arsenal of weapons. Since 1971, the belfry has housed a small carillon of 23 bells which play a tune every 15 minutes.
Built in 1740 rococo style, the historical town hall overlooks the Grote Markt. Designed as a large mansion, the building houses a gorgeous oak spiral staircase. Visitor information is located inside the Town Hall.
Since the Middle Ages, the Large Market has been the beating heart of Lier. In 1914, three-quarters of the buildings in the Large Market were destroyed. By a miracle, the belfry and town hall suffered little damage. After WWI, some buildings were rebuilt in their original style.
The former butcher’s guild house, or meathouse, dates to 1418. It has served as a cloth hall, justice of the peace and prison. The meathouse has been rebuilt several times in different styles. The current façade is a neo-gothic reconstruction from 1920.
Part of the first city wall, the Prisoners’ Gate was founded in 1375. This gate is the only remaining part of the oldest defensive wall in Lier.
The Sheep Heads monument honours a legend behind the story of Lier. In the 15th century, Duke John II wanted to thank the people of Lier for their services during his struggle against the people of Mechelen. Therefore, the Duke offered them a reward that the people could choose for themselves: a cattle market or a university. They chose the cattle market and the Duke sighed, “Oh, the sheep heads!” Mechelen and Lier are bitter rivals to this day.
Beer and Belgium are synonymous with each other. One must stop and try a different beer with each town you visit. Stop at Café René, sit on the patio and enjoy a beer and snack while taking in the view of the Zimmer Clock. As you listen to the carillon play, make sure to watch the animated clock as doors open and close on the side of the building. Most importantly, Café René also has its own beer: The Triple René, a fresh tasting, clear blonde triple brewed using dry hopping.
Belgium is full of medieval towns exuding charm, radiating fantastic Flemish architecture, overflowing with cobblestone streets, and bursting with historic landmarks. Lier, a small town in Belgium, does not lack in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cafés and incredible churches with varying architectural styles. Visit Lier for a fabulous day trip from Antwerp or stay a little longer and immerse yourself in small-town culture.
All pictures in this post are taken by Charlotte, yours truly, as always, unless otherwise stated.
Roam Free is a deeply personal and often hilarious travel memoir that pulls you in to the wild and woolly ride of my epic travel adventures. If you loved Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, you’ll delight in Roam Free’s sweetly innocent deep dive into a life of untethered long-term travel. Get your copy on Amazon and become inspired today.
“I just finished your book and I wrote a great review on Amazon. Congratulations on your book, your blogging career, and mostly on your courage to step out of the box then burn the damn box!! Your book is inspiring. Bravo.” – Irene Cabay
Get Your Custom-Built Itinerary:
Want to make your own adventure travel memories but don’t know where to start? A Wandering Web Travels can help you plan and book your bucket list travel today.
Enter for your chance to win a FREE trip! *Terms and conditions apply.*
Book Your Flight and Car Rental:
Find cheap transportation by using Kiwi.com. This search engine combs websites and airlines around the globe to become the ultimate travel hack.
Book Your Accommodation:
You can book hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, B&Bs and guest houses at Booking.com! They consistently return the most economical rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Like surprises? Try Hotwire.com and Save up to 60% off 4+ Star Hot Rate Hotels!
Always been curious about Airbnb but afraid to try? Now you can check them out and earn up to $62 CAD off your first trip!
Check out our world recommendations page on Where to Stay!
Book Your Small-Group Tour, Activities and Attractions:
For the best small-group tours check out G Adventures’ Insanely affordable tours!
Viator is another great option so don’t miss out! Guaranteed lowest prices on tours and activities.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. We like World Nomads because they have great rates and cover a range of adventurous activities.
P.S. – If you’ve found our website helpful and like to book travel yourself, please consider booking your next trip through the links on our Resources Page. We have personally used the companies listed there in our own travels. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, expand our resources, and keep the website community supported.
Mission statement: Transform your life with travel—one destination, one adventure, one story at a time.
Even though many of our travel plans are on hold right now, we will continue to share stories that we hope will offer inspiration for future adventures. Check with National Parks in your area to see if they are open and safe to visit.
Countless colours, hues, and shades scatter the landscape telling a story of the passage of time. Small shards of ancient trees to massive trunks are strewn across the landscape, some steadfast on cliffs, reflecting their sheer strength by withstanding the winds of an era. Ancient trees have crystallized into quartz and the different minerals show a stunning array of colours in what used to be a living organism. Remnants of a prehistoric forest are yours to discover at your own pace. Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, USA is one of the best places in the world to view the fossil record from the Late Triassic Period.
As you look over the landscape, imagine how ancient Arizona used to be a lush, green forest with giant trees and reptiles roaming the earth. Now hot, dry, and hardly a live tree in site, the grasslands now appear barren and void of life.
*Note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning that if you book through my link, I will make a small commission (at no extra cost to you).
Contamination has caused different colours in the petrified trees. Mineral impurities within the quartz give the wood the varying colours. Iron Oxides are red, yellow, orange, and purple. Manganese oxides are black and gray. Pure quartz is white. Most specimens we saw were iron oxides.
The massive logs appear to have been sawed or cut but this is not the case. Settling of a heavy quartz log causes cracks that eventually break. The logs break perpendicular to their length, just like a piece of brittle chalk.
Small-Town Travel Tip: Stop and take a picture of the Teepees (rock formations) during the drive down into the valley north to south as they are such a pleasant, surprising rainbow of colours. The view is not quite the same when you take the same road out.
The main park road spans 28 miles (45 km). Be prepared for a lot of driving in this park as it is expansive and the viewing sites are far apart; however, there are many points where you can park, get out and take a hike. Stay on the designated areas to preserve the park. If you have mobility issues, you can still enjoy the views rather than hiking down into the valleys. Do note it can be windy at the top plateaus since the plains are open with no live trees for shelter.
The park is a semi-arid grassland. Temperatures range from above 100° F (38° C) to well below freezing. About 10 inches (25.4 cm) of moisture comes during infrequent snow in the winter and often violent summer thunderstorms. The park is open year-round so check the current weather forecast so you can be prepared. We visited in the fall and it was windy in higher areas.
A minimum of three hours is suggested to enjoy Petrified Forest National Park but not everyone has that much time. The highest concentrations of petrified wood are at the south end of the park. If you don’t have 3 hours, do this:
Park entrance fees are subject to change. Costs below are in USD:
There are designated fee-free days each year. Check here for the current dates where you can visit the park at no charge.
If you plan on visiting numerous National Parks in the United States within the year, it is highly recommended you purchase America the Beautiful National Parks Pass. The annual pass is $80 so it pays for itself if a family per vehicle visits three or more parks a year. The pass is valid one year from the month of purchase. Learn more here.
It is hard to fathom how much the earth has changed when we see natural historic sites such as Petrified Forest National Park. So old are the ancient trees represented here that they were crystallized before the T. Rex roamed these very grounds some 135 million years later.
Petrified Forest National Park’s roads, trails, and backcountry are open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The north visitor center and complex are open as well, although the south visitor center and historic inn have not reopened yet. Check the park updates on the official website before venturing out to learn of any alerts, restrictions, or closures.
Don’t become petrified on your couch and miss your summer vacation. Now is a good time to get out and explore wide-open areas with plenty of fresh air and fewer travellers around. Have a safe and meaningful experience when you visit. Be aware of your surroundings and carry your personal protective equipment with you in case you need it. And remember, leave no trace whenever you visit any National Park. Getting outdoors is essential to our physical and mental health. Learn more on how to stay safe in parks and recreate safely.
“The world is big and I want to have a good look at it before it gets dark.” – John Muir, Father of the National Parks
All pictures in this post are taken by Charlotte, yours truly, as always, unless otherwise stated.
Roam Free is a deeply personal and often hilarious travel memoir that pulls you in to the wild and woolly ride of my epic travel adventures. If you loved Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, you’ll delight in Roam Free’s sweetly innocent deep dive into a life of untethered long-term travel. Get your copy on Amazon and become inspired today.
“I just finished your book and I wrote a great review on Amazon. Congratulations on your book, your blogging career, and mostly on your courage to step out of the box then burn the damn box!! Your book is inspiring. Bravo.” – Irene Cabay
Get Your Custom-Built Itinerary:
Want to make your own adventure travel memories but don’t know where to start? A Wandering Web Travels can help you plan and book your bucket list travel today.
Enter for your chance to win a FREE trip! *Terms and conditions apply.*
Book Your Flight and Car Rental:
Find cheap transportation by using Kiwi.com. This search engine combs websites and airlines around the globe to become the ultimate travel hack.
Book Your Accommodation:
You can book hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, B&Bs and guest houses at Booking.com! They consistently return the most economical rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Like surprises? Try Hotwire.com and Save up to 60% off 4+ Star Hot Rate Hotels!
Always been curious about Airbnb but afraid to try? Now you can check them out and earn up to $62 CAD off your first trip!
Check out our world recommendations page on Where to Stay!
Book Your Small-Group Tour, Activities and Attractions:
For the best small-group tours check out G Adventures’ Insanely affordable tours!
Viator is another great option so don’t miss out! Guaranteed lowest prices on tours and activities.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. We like World Nomads because they have great rates and cover a range of adventurous activities.
P.S. – If you’ve found our website helpful and like to book travel yourself, please consider booking your next trip through the links on our Resources Page. We have personally used the companies listed there in our own travels. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, expand our resources, and keep the website community supported.
Mission statement: Transform your life with travel—one destination, one adventure, one story at a time.
The hospitality of the southern United States is endearing. Some of the nicest people on earth live in the south. First of all, how the locals treat travellers is the most important aspect for any visitor on the move. New Orleans, Louisiana is no exception to the rule. Lovingly referred to as NOLA, the people are genuinely happy, relaxed, helpful and welcoming. Also, they tell it like it is. If the hushpuppies are not good at the restaurant, the server will straight out tell you so. Now, on to more pictures of New Orleans…
*Note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning that if you book through my link, I will make a small commission (at no extra cost to you).
Give me good food, or I’m not coming back. New Orleans has remarkable Southern soul food – fantastic, good ole’ home-cooked, simple meals with ingredients unique to their area. Mark Twain said, “New Orleans food is as delicious as the less criminal forms of sin.” A combination of their French colonial history mixed with the cooking techniques of the African Americans has made for delicious Creole cuisine. From alligator sausage or soft-shelled crab Po-Boys, to raw or cooked oysters, to peanut butter hamburgers, there is something for everyone.
I had to have a Smoked Manhattan after seeing one prepared at the bar while staying at the AC Hotel by Marriott. Cedar chips are lit on fire with a small torch, then a martini glass is placed overtop to put out the flames and generate smoke. While the glass smokes, a concoction containing bourbon whiskey, vermouth and bitters is shaken over ice. The finishing touch is a Bordeaux-soaked cherry resulting in an enjoyable southern temptation that warms the throat all the way down.
Charming and distinctive, New Orleans architecture is recognizable around the world. The buildings in the 300-year old city are eccentric. You can’t help but feel you are in a time warp while walking in the French Quarter because of the structures. Traffic can be distracting to the ambience. Blocked off traffic would give a true feel of what it was like to walk the streets of New Orleans’ heyday.
Music is everywhere in New Orleans. From talented street performers to Rockabilly bands playing daily in restaurants and coffee shops, there is an experience for everybody that is characteristic to the city. Sit down, order a cold beer to get a break from the stifling heat, and enjoy the show. The bands range from locals to Grammy Award-winning artists.
NOLA can be expensive. Visit at the beginning of June to get a break on hotel prices. Sure, hurricane season starts June 1st, which just may just add to your encounter! An afternoon thunderstorm brought on by the wrath of Poseidon is likely. It’s all part of the experience. Watch for happy hour specials to get a break on drinks and food. A notable restaurant, Gallier’s, opened a year ago just off Bourbon Street. The raw oysters are to die for! They are sweet, plump and slightly salty; perfect with an ice-cold beer. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. Sit at the bar to engage with the staff. They can be quite entertaining as you listen to their conversations. You might even get a free oyster or two to tempt you into a purchase.
Streetcars are a perfect way to see the city and get pictures of New Orleans. Don’t bother getting a rental car. You will only have to pay for parking and the streets are narrow. For $3 USD per person (as of 2018), you can get a hop-on-hop-off pass allowing 24-hour access to the cable cars that go almost anywhere. The St. Charles Avenue streetcar goes through the Garden District to see the gorgeous mansions lining the streets.
Lafayette Cemetery #1 and Audubon Park are also accessible by streetcar. The cemetery is one of the most recognizable pictures of New Orleans. Continue further down St. Charles to find numerous restaurants and coffee shops to enjoy.
I would be amiss if I didn’t mention The River Road. If you love touring Southern plantations, this is one day you need to get a rental car and just drive. Plan your day based on what plantations you must see as they have short operating hours. The houses are incredible and so are the grounds. The towering, massive oak trees take you into fairytale land. The largest oak tree lining the famous Oak Alley is 30 feet in diameter.
People. Food. Music. History. Architecture. All of these qualities are the backbone of New Orleans. I have been to the southern US numerous times and have never been disappointed. I love the laid-back atmosphere. New Orleans is vibrant and alive without being pushy and rude. Never pass up an opportunity to go to a southern town as they are tremendous places for a vacation. Put all your hesitations behind you and wrap yourself in the blanket of Southern hospitality. Prepare to fall in love and take tons of pictures of New Orleans.
All pictures in this post are taken by Charlotte, yours truly, as always, unless otherwise stated.
Roam Free is a deeply personal and often hilarious travel memoir that pulls you in to the wild and woolly ride of my epic travel adventures. If you loved Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, you’ll delight in Roam Free’s sweetly innocent deep dive into a life of untethered long-term travel. Get your copy on Amazon and become inspired today.
“I just finished your book and I wrote a great review on Amazon. Congratulations on your book, your blogging career, and mostly on your courage to step out of the box then burn the damn box!! Your book is inspiring. Bravo.” – Irene Cabay
Get Your Custom-Built Itinerary:
Want to make your own adventure travel memories but don’t know where to start? A Wandering Web Travels can help you plan and book your bucket list travel today.
Enter for your chance to win a FREE trip! *Terms and conditions apply.*
Book Your Flight and Car Rental:
Find cheap transportation by using Kiwi.com. This search engine combs websites and airlines around the globe to become the ultimate travel hack.
Book Your Accommodation:
You can book hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, B&Bs and guest houses at Booking.com! They consistently return the most economical rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Like surprises? Try Hotwire.com and Save up to 60% off 4+ Star Hot Rate Hotels!
Always been curious about Airbnb but afraid to try? Now you can check them out and earn up to $62 CAD off your first trip!
Check out our world recommendations page on Where to Stay!
Book Your Small-Group Tour, Activities and Attractions:
For the best small-group tours check out G Adventures’ Insanely affordable tours!
Viator is another great option so don’t miss out! Guaranteed lowest prices on tours and activities.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. We like World Nomads because they have great rates and cover a range of adventurous activities.
P.S. – If you’ve found our website helpful and like to book travel yourself, please consider booking your next trip through the links on our Resources Page. We have personally used the companies listed there in our own travels. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, expand our resources, and keep the website community supported.
Mission statement: Transform your life with travel—one destination, one adventure, one story at a time.
Even though many of our travel plans are on hold right now, we will continue to share stories that we hope will offer inspiration for future adventures.
Imagine stepping into a real-life mirage. Dazzling white gypsum sand dunes shimmer like snow beneath your feet. Specks of tiny twinkling stars in the sand reflect the blazing hot Chihuahuan Desert sun. You step onto the first sand dune and expect to hear the crunch of snow beneath your feet. Instead, your feet sink ever so slightly into the pristine sand. Your system is shocked as your mind expects it to be a cold winter climate as the sand is an illusion of snow. But, it’s not snow or the arctic region. It’s the desert and it’s hot. You are about to discover why White Sands National Monument in New Mexico is one of the most unique National Parks in the United States of America.
This post contains affiliate links; if you click through and purchase something I may receive payment.
Covering 275 square miles (443 square kilometres), the White Sands are the largest gypsum sand dune in the world. Despite the white sea of vastness, some plants and animals thrive in this odd oasis in the desert.
President Herbert Hoover proclaimed the White Sands to be a National Monument in 1933. During World War II, the US military tested weapons in the dunefield beyond the park. In 1945, the first atomic bomb was detonated at Trinity Site, 100 miles (160 kilometres) north of the monument. The area is still an active missile testing site today. Before you visit, it is imperative to check testing dates to ensure the roads entering the White Sands National Monument are not closed to visitors. Check here for current closures.
How did this shimmering, white blanket of sand appear in the middle of a desert? Answer: it is gypsum from an ancient sea. When the Permian Sea retreated millions of years ago, it left behind deep layers of gypsum. Mountains rose and carried the gypsum high. Later, water from the melting glaciers dissolved the mineral and returned it to the basin. Rain and snow continue the process today. Steady, strong southwest winds keep the gypsum sand moving, piling it up and pushing massive dunes into various shapes and sizes.
Why does the sand not blow away? Underneath your feet, natural glue holds the huge dunefield together. The natural glue is water. Water seeps down inches below the surface. The moisture keeps the dunes from blowing away. The difference between gypsum dunes and regular sand dunes is that water is held in the sand during the longest droughts. The water becomes older and saltier toward the centre of the dunefield.
Temperature and weather vary greatly throughout the year in White Sands. Check here for White Sands National Park’s current weather forecast conditions.
The latter part of the year brings the most comfortable temperatures and stable weather in the park. However, September can be rainy late into the month. Daytime temperatures average 80ºF (27ºC), with a low of 65ºF (18ºC). Evenings are cooler, averaging around 40ºF (4ºC). During these months, days are typically sunny with light winds. Therefore, even with the cooler temperatures, September feels hot due to the reflection of the sun off the glassy white sand.
Daytime temperatures average 95ºF (35ºC) in the summer, with some days reaching as high as 110ºF (43ºC). Talk about hot. Evenings are cooler, ranging from 50-65ºF (10-18ºC). Ah, relief! With the added brilliance of the white sand and reflection of the sun, days can be scorching in the summer months.
The rainy season begins in early July and lasts into late September. These months bring the majority of annual 10 inches (25.4 cm) of precipitation. Late afternoon and evening thunderstorms are common.
Daytime temperatures average 60ºF (16ºC) in the winter. Evenings are cold, averaging around 23ºF (-5ºC). The occasional winter storm will bring rain and limited snow. How interesting it would be to see if you could tell the difference between the snow and the sand since the sand already bears a remarkable resemblance to fresh snow.
Daytime temperatures average about 75ºF (24ºC) in the spring. Evenings are cool, averaging around 40ºF (4ºC). Spring brings high winds up to 50 mph (80 kph). Sunny days with strong windstorms are common. Picture being caught in a sandstorm here. It would be like a winter blizzard only with the sand being grittier, providing a natural exfoliation to your skin and it would get into every crevice of your body. Do you due diligence and pick a day with an outstanding weather forecast.
Entrance to the White Sands National Monument is on US 70, 15 miles (24 kilometres) southwest of Alamogordo and 54 miles (87 kilometres) east of Las Cruces. Moreover, expect to be stopped at a border patrol checkpoint so have your passports handy. Upon arrival at the monument, stop at the visitor centre and fill up your water bottles before you begin exploring. It is the only place to get water at the monument. You do not want to run out of water.
First, while hiking the trails of the dunes, always, always keep landmarks in sight. The ever-shifting dunes can change drastically and cover your footprints—hiding the direction back to the main drive. People have died while visiting the White Sands because they strayed too far and could not find their way back.
Second, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are a must.
Third, do not tunnel into the dunes. They can collapse and suffocate you.
Fourth, do not touch any strange objects while hiking any of the trails. Sometimes military planes flying over will drop strange objects on the dunes that could be dangerous.
Fifth, do not rely on GPS to find your way. The military tests close by can affect satellite signals for hours. Make your number one goal to make it out alive.
And last but not least, please, do not leave or bury your trash. Leave no trace behind but your footprints.
Park entrance fees are payable at the entrance station located on Dunes Drive. Costs are in USD:
Small Town Travel Tip: If you plan on visiting numerous National Parks in the United States within the year, it is highly recommended you purchase America the Beautiful National Parks Pass. The annual pass is $80 so it pays for itself if a family per vehicle visits three or more parks a year. The pass is valid one year from the month of purchase.
The White Sands National Monument is a place to reflect, enjoy nature, and let your imagination run wild as you are swept away to another galaxy. Relax, have fun, and enjoy your day. Don’t get lost. Don’t run out of water. Don’t get sunburned. You will have the best day at White Sands National Monument ever.
“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and places to pray in, where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to the body and soul alike.“ John Muir, Father of the National Parks
All pictures in this post are taken by Charlotte, yours truly, as always, unless otherwise stated.
Roam Free is a deeply personal and often hilarious travel memoir that pulls you in to the wild and woolly ride of my epic travel adventures. If you loved Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, you’ll delight in Roam Free’s sweetly innocent deep dive into a life of untethered long-term travel. Get your copy on Amazon and become inspired today.
“I just finished your book and I wrote a great review on Amazon. Congratulations on your book, your blogging career, and mostly on your courage to step out of the box then burn the damn box!! Your book is inspiring. Bravo.” – Irene Cabay
Get Your Custom-Built Itinerary:
Want to make your own adventure travel memories but don’t know where to start? A Wandering Web Travels can help you plan and book your bucket list travel today.
Enter for your chance to win a FREE trip! *Terms and conditions apply.*
Book Your Flight and Car Rental:
Find cheap transportation by using Kiwi.com. This search engine combs websites and airlines around the globe to become the ultimate travel hack.
Book Your Accommodation:
You can book hotels, apartments, resorts, villas, B&Bs and guest houses at Booking.com! They consistently return the most economical rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.
Like surprises? Try Hotwire.com and Save up to 60% off 4+ Star Hot Rate Hotels!
Always been curious about Airbnb but afraid to try? Now you can check them out and earn up to $62 CAD off your first trip!
Check out our world recommendations page on Where to Stay!
Book Your Small-Group Tour, Activities and Attractions:
For the best small-group tours check out G Adventures’ Insanely affordable tours!
Viator is another great option so don’t miss out! Guaranteed lowest prices on tours and activities.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. We like World Nomads because they have great rates and cover a range of adventurous activities.
P.S. – If you’ve found our website helpful and like to book travel yourself, please consider booking your next trip through the links on our Resources Page. We have personally used the companies listed there in our own travels. By booking through these links, the small commission we earn helps us keep the content up to date, expand our resources, and keep the website community supported.
Mission statement: Transform your life with travel—one destination, one adventure, one story at a time.
Your mission when you visit Salado: Be so busy loving life you have no time for hate, regret, or fear. Our favourite day-trip from Austin, Texas, Salado is picturesque with charming historic buildings and art along the main streets. What makes Salado different? Grit and elegance. When you step out of your car, you immediately feel good. Salado has an eclectic appeal and a noticeable Texan charisma unmatched with other towns we have visited.
Even though many of our travel plans are on hold right now, we will continue to share stories that we hope will offer inspiration for future adventures.
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Salado has a north and south side separated by Salado Creek. Each side has its own character and it is possible to park on one end and walk to the other if you are ambitious. Depending on how hot it is during your visit, you may want to park on one end, explore, then drive to the other end park, and explore. Like other small, Texas towns, Salado’s shopping districts and restaurants are repurposed buildings from the 1800s, retaining the Old West feel.
While strolling around, you will notice an overhead humming sound like a power line is about to explode. Don’t take cover. The sound is coming from cicada’s in the trees; a seasonal insect that is elusive, large, and downright creepy.
Small-Town Travel Tip: Salado restaurants and stores have odd opening hours. We suggest visiting Salado from Wednesday to Saturday. Most establishments are closed on Monday and Tuesday, but hours vary so check local websites for updated hours of operation.
Salado is a decorative destination full of artistic people who love to show their wares in the stores and with imaginative street art. Here a notable few to be on the lookout for:
The Troll at the Bridge located just across Main Street from Rock Creek Street.
Tree Fairy at the Bridge. Look way up and you will see Rusty.
We would have missed this creature hiding in the trees if it were not for a roadworker laughing to himself. “Look up!” He called over to us as we passed by on the sidewalk. “That thing scared me to death.” Way up in the trees is a tiny creature ready to pounce. It caught the roadworker by surprise. He thought he discovered a new species. He continued to laugh at the unusual statue as we went on our way, smiling and laughing as well.
Salado is as unique as it is beautiful. The residential areas are worth a drive to see the different houses and huge, gorgeous yards. The large lots are spaced out to give the impression of mini acreages. No two houses look alike in Salado. The streets are narrow with no sidewalks and the golf course also runs through the middle of town along the creek. Beware of golf carts crossing the road and deer munching on grass.
Here you will find a variety of shops and a family-owned café that feels as if you have stepped into someone’s kitchen. Cathy’s Boardwalk Café offers traditional diner food at bargain prices. Lunch here for two people will total under $20. It’s the place where locals come to have coffee, a bite to eat and shoot the breeze. It is the only restaurant we found to be open each time we go to Salado. It has become our old faithful. “Cathy’s will be be open. Let’s go there.”
Check out Salado Olive Oil for Texas’ largest selection of infused olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Or stop in at Pen Station where they specialize in photo sublimation products and fine writing pens. Say hello to Rayna, the 12-year old Dachshund while you are there.
Thousands of antiques and collectibles beckon you to buy in this emporium. Antiques are popular in Texas and one of the best places to find them is in the inviting atmosphere of the antique mall in Salado. Enjoy the original Salado Market Days here the second weekend of every month.
A unique shopping experience on its own, Salado Square hosts 21 Main (unique home décor, furnishing, gifts, and accessories. Classics on Main (arts, crafts, handmade goods, and décor). Christy’s of Salado (playful, casual clothing). Lively Coffee House and Bistro (serving breakfast and lunch, homemade bread and bagels.) Magnolias of Salado (furniture, antiques, jewelry, ladies’ apparel, and home décor.) You could literally spend an entire morning and afternoon in this little haven in Salado.
Our favourite coffee in the world is located at the Strawberry Patch of Salado. Texas Gold is a house-roasted blend combining the flavours of buttery brown sugar and a hint of vanilla. This award-winning coffee warmed its way into our hearts seven years ago and holds a place to this day. Every time we go to Texas, we stop at Strawberry Patch to buy two pounds of Texas Gold beans. One for us and one for our son back home in Canada.
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Strawberry Patch is an institution in Salado. Being in business for over 30 years, the store is a great place to try Texas specialty treats like watermelon rind pickles, candied jalapenos, and pecan butter. The store smells as good as it sounds. As soon as you open the door, aromas of brown sugar and fresh-brewed coffee hug you like a warm, soft blanket.
Coffee, smoothies, and sweet tea are served at the back of the emporium. Moreover, Marketplace Café is a cooperative of different local vendors so you can shop before you stop. It is the perfect, cozy, quiet spot for a break. Cinnamon buns and cheesecake are available for your sugary pick-me-up. Most importantly, there is a full coffee bar with free Wi-Fi and clean bathrooms are available for patrons.
The Stagecoach Inn was built during the 1860s and used to be known as the Salado Hotel and Shady Villa before the current name took hold. Famous military men who may have stayed at the hotel include George Armstrong Custer, Robert E. Lee, and Cattle Baron Shanghai Pierce.
The Stagecoach Inn features a two-story galleried porch with a second story balustrade. The building is a good example of frontier vernacular architecture—an architectural style designed on local needs and materials available. The design and tradition of the local builders was relied upon for construction.
A welcoming smell of wood and leather greeted us at the door. The restaurant is tastefully decorated in western style. Elvis played over the speakers, whisking me back to childhood. There is a nice view from the restaurant overlooking the hotel courtyard.
Highly recommended: The SCI Burger. This may be the best burger we have ever eaten. Cooked perfectly to medium-rare, the patty was thick and juicy. The brioche bun baked with love at Lively Coffee House and Bistro had a heavier texture. As a result, the burger held together well. Flawlessly dressed—not overdone with toppings and sauce—the burger didn’t become a sloppy mess. White cheddar and red onion-tomato jam adorn the patty. The tomato jam was the sweet and savoury kicker. The pickle on top of the bun was sweet and crunchy.
Add the works, if you dare—avocado, smoked bacon, fried egg, BBQ steak fries, and tobacco onions for an additional $4. The burger is served with potato chips; sliced beautifully thin, crisp, and freshly made in house. I could eat a bowl of these myself—potato chips are my weakness. The leather billfold to hold the cheque was a nice touch to say, “Goodbye and y’all come back again soon.”
Over 60 Texas craft beers are on tap at Chupacabra Craft Beer. They have the best selection of dark beers we have seen. 512 Pecan Porter, one of our favourites, was on tap. Order a flight to try as many different beers as possible. 4 x 5-ounce glasses plus a free glass for $12.95 is a decent price. Our favourites were #2 Southern Star Buried Hatchet. A hint of coffee, sweet, smooth mouthfeel, and creamy. #12 Noble Rey Yub Nub, another big chocolatey stout. #22 Whitestone Porch Daddy Baltic Porter, a roasty, smoky delight.
They also have wine flights of 6 1-ounce pours. 60 different wines are available plus receive a free glass from Salado Lone Star Winery with the purchase of a flight.
We have not eaten at the below establishments—yet. The Salado locals are friendly and love sharing the “where to eat” and “what to do” about their hospitable small town. Here are some recommendations by locals:
Wine tastings are available every Thursday for $10 per person. The Barton House is where Southwest cuisine and wine collide. Sounds like my kind of place. The Barton House was built in 1866 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. There are three levels of construction where the old and new blend seamlessly. History buffs and devoted diners will love the Barton House.
Specializing in classic bar food with a cozy décor and rustic setting, The Shed is a unique tavern experience. Enjoy a burger and a beer when you want a casual place to go and chill out. The Shed also has the only traffic light in Salado. Green means “Gulp, gulp, gulp”. Yellow signifies “Last call”. Red bellows “Time to get a room at the inn!”
There are only three months that we have not visited Texas; January, April, and December. The annual Christmas Stroll in Salado comes highly recommended by many locals we have encountered. “You must come for the Stroll in December.” The first two weeks in December transform the town of Salado into a shopping street haven with vendors selling locals goods and food all with the flavour of the Christmas season thrown in.
Salado delivers a plethora of bakeries, restaurants, shops, and Texas hospitality. The beauty of the community, the upscale yet friendly atmosphere, and the serenity of the expansive residential area will be certain to call you back again and again. Stop by. The people of Salado will love to meet you.
All pictures in this post are taken by Charlotte, yours truly, as always, unless otherwise stated.
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