1. Barbeque

*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).

Of all the reasons to love Texas, my number one is barbeque. If you have never had Texas barbeque, you don’t know what you are missing. Don’t be fooled! Restaurants advertising that they are serving up authentic Texas barbeque but are not physically located in Texas, are NOT serving authentic Texas barbeque. I have fallen for this ploy before only to leave disappointed. Texas barbeque is moist, juicy, smoky and about the tastiest thing to pass over your lips. Focus is placed on the smoking process and the rubs, with traditions often going back through family generations. The sauces are usually served on the side, so you can add as much or as little as you like. Therefore, whenever we go back to Texas, one of our first stops is barbeque. I vibrate with anticipation while waiting for my food. Extra napkins, please!

2. Austin

“There is a freedom you begin to feel the closer you get to Austin, Texas” – Willie Nelson.

I know and understand the feeling. I have loved this city since the day we met. Every time I come back to Austin, I feel like I’m coming home. It’s a big city with a small-town feel. The greater Austin area is vast and spreads out over Texas Hill Country. What’s so great about Austin? Everything. The food, the people, the drinks, the scenery and the shopping. I always find great deals at the Round Rock Outlets. Saving $500 buying shoes and clothes in one day of shopping is common.

Where to Stay in Austin

3. Craft beer

512 Brewing Company serves up the best Pecan Porter. Period. It could be a meal replacement but goes best with a burger at Hopdoddy Burger Bar. If you are lucky, you can get a taste of their Double Pecan Porter aged in whiskey barrels. It is brewed during certain times of the year and it is the only one of their beers that they bottle and sell. Their focus is on draft at local restaurants. Another good reason to visit Austin as often as you can.

4. Texas Hill Country Wine Trail

Located in beautiful Texas Hill County is a road lined with 53 unique wineries. Texas is giving California a run for its money with their delicious wines. Barons Creek Vineyards has a fabulous Tempranillo. From Austin to Fredericksburg, New Braunfels and Lampasas, you can make a day (or two or three) of it. Make sure to have a designated driver. Lucky me, my husband doesn’t drink wine!

5. Festivals

Guess what, more barbeque! You never go hungry in Texas. The Pecan Street Festival on 6th Street in Austin will not disappoint. This huge, annual festival is free and features food, local artisans and drinks. You can slip into a side restaurant for a break from the heat and enjoy an ice-cold beer. There are festivals and events going on in Austin year-round. Austin is known as the Outdoor Musical Capital of the World. If you are bored in Austin, there is something wrong with you.

6. Luckenbach

Everyone knows the Waylon Jennings song about Luckenbach, Texas – well, almost everyone. This tiny town has tons of charm. Check to see when they have entertainment because it is easy to spend an afternoon under the sprawling Texas Oak trees listening to old style country music. Luckenbach ranks as my favourite day in Texas. Even if you do not consider yourself a country music fan, you will love this spot. An old dance hall and general store are onsite. Buy some food and beverages and hang out for the day. The relaxed atmosphere comes complete with roosters roaming the grounds and roosting in the trees. Dance in the dirt or pull up a chair, it’s up to you how you want to enjoy this Texas hoe-down.

7. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Texas has many natural park areas perfect for hiking. Every place has its own unique landscape and Texas does not disappoint. People who have not been to Texas often think of it as a desert. There is a lot of rock, trees and cacti providing a wonderful contrast giving Texas its own exclusive beauty. The view from the top of Enchanted Rock is unparalleled. I’m a flatlander and love to see for miles and the view is 360 degrees panoramic from the top. Take the hike up, it’s worth it.

8. Texas Hill Country

Vast, rolling hills covered with trees. Huge mansions. Lakes and rivers. Texas Hill Country has it all. Charming small towns, wineries, breweries, swimming, hiking, whatever you want to do, you can do it in Hill Country. The rolling hills offer a serenity from the busy city of Austin. In about 20 minutes, you can be from downtown Austin to an outdoor adventure paradise.

9. Two people can have lunch for less than $20

That’s right. It is still possible. Salado, Texas is a trendy small town offering shopping and dining. You can have fine dining or stop into a family owned café and feast on diner food for under $20.

10. The Strawberry Patch

The Strawberry Patch in Salado serves up fresh, in-house roasted coffee. As soon as you walk in the door you can smell the combination of brown sugar, vanilla and coffee. Our personal favourite is Texas Gold. Brown sugar and vanilla notes tantalize the taste buds with this flavoured coffee. I drink my coffee black and don’t usually like flavoured coffees but this one has me hooked. Furthermore, there are unique Texas treats for purchase such as watermelon rind pickles and pecan honey butter. The Strawberry Patch is a must stop for us every time we return to Texas.

Where to Stay in Salado

11. Texans

Y’all are the friendliest, most genuine people I have ever met and are the icing on the cake of reasons to love Texas. I cannot speak highly enough of Texans. Fiercely proud of their state, they make everyone feel welcome. The first time my family went to Texas was to investigate the real estate market. Our realtors have become great friends and have even offered their home to us to rest our heads. Where else would that happen? Nowhere but Texas.

All pictures in this post are taken by Charlotte, yours truly, as always, unless otherwise stated.