Move over LA and New York City, there’s a new tourism sheriff in town… Texas is here to steal your crown and turn it into a cowboy hat. To help you on your trip planning to the Lone Star State, I have put together a travel guide to the best of North Texas and four unique destinations that all offer something different.
My journey to North Texas
“Howdy ya’ll, welcome to Texas” is what I half expected the captain to say as I landed at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport. I then remembered I was on a Qantas flight with an Australian pilot… but a girl can dream.
I’m not a newcomer to Texas, so you could say it’s “not my first rodeo”. I visited in 2014 and was completely gobsmacked that San Antonio was so green! Texas isn’t just dry desserts with cactus and tumbleweeds?
Well I’ve heard that Dallas may be more like the cliche Texas I’d imagined, so I am putting that theory to the test. I’ve just come back from an incredible trip to North Texas with Travel Texas and Concrete Playground and I am going to be sharing everything I got up to and all of my recommendations for these areas. I focused my time on four key areas, all very different with unique offerings and ‘vibes’.
So yeehaw, let’s go find some cowboys.
How to get to Dallas-Fort Worth & North Texas
Getting to Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport from Australia has never been easier thanks to the direct daily flights from Sydney & three times weekly from Melbourne. I soaked up the rare opportunity to be offline and out of reach. Hello unlimited movies, food and drink! Heaven really is in the sky.
DFW is a massive airport with direct flights to most continents. It’s actually the second busiest airport in the world after Atlanta, Georgia. So, if you’re traveling in the area, chances are you might even have a stopover here.
If you do have an extended layover, Grapevine is less than ten minutes from the airport and a great place to visit. I actually met a couple from Ireland who were doing just that. They were traveling from Argentina back to Dublin and had a 12 hour layover so decided to check out the area.
Grapevine, Texas
Once I landed I was very grateful that I didn’t have far to travel on land after 16 hours in the sky, so Grapevine was a perfect first stop. The town actually donated a lot of land to help build the now bustling DFW Airport. How lovely of them! The charming historic town is a famous wine hotspot and is especially known for Grapefest, an annual wine festival held every September.
Another great thing about Grapevine is that they have free shuttles to take you to all of the main attractions, hotels and even the airport. This gets a huge thumbs up from me as often the hardest part of traveling is wondering how you’re going to get around.
Where to stay in Grapevine, Texas?
There are many great accommodation options but probably none quite like the Gaylord Texan resort. Upon checking in I couldn’t help but notice that everything is – in fact – bigger in Texas. Three grand atriums enclosed by hotel & convention rooms host elements of Texas throughout. Find themed restaurants, giant fountains, replicas of Texas landscapes & famous landmarks like the Alamo. There’s also big giant lone star overhead that lights up red at night. There’s not only an outdoor and indoor pool, convention centre, nightclub and escape room but a waterpark for resort guests only. A massive win during this extreme heatwave and of course all the atriums are air conditioned too.
My room was really cosy, with a large smart TV, balcony view out to the atrium, the comfiest bed that you sink into and a large luxurious bathroom. When I was ready for dinner I didn’t need to use Google to find a restaurant nearby. I used Windows… my hotel room windows that is because I could see the restaurant from my balcony.
The best places to eat and drink in Grapevine
Texan Station
For my first Texas meal I headed to the Texan Station. Here they served up classic Texan comfort food in front of huge screens playing sports games. I tried the local beer; Shiner Bock, a rich amber brew and feasted on deep fried cheese and garlic, burgers and taco bowls (salads served in bowls made from taco shells, I was very impressed). When it was time to hit the hay, my room was only a few steps away. Hey, that rhymed!
Chez Fabien
Mornin’ Texas, what’s for brekky? Chez Fabien is a French inspired diner with cute two-man booths, funky low hanging lights, mismatched mirrors and a long marble bar that serves coffee by day and cocktails by night. My oat latte was delicious and very much satisfied my Melbourne coffee taste buds. I indulged in the Churros French Toast and their famous almond croissant. You will have to pardon my French but it was magnifique. There is also an attached bakery for anyone wanting to just pop in for a pastry.
Messina Hof
When in Grapevine, you must try the grapes from the vines that this town is so famous for. Messina Hof is an urban winery where you can sample their range of unique and delicious wines. The staff were super friendly and knowledgable about the grapes and specific wines and I was really impressed by the Tempranillo and the Gewürztraminer. I had never heard of this wine before so had to buy a bottle to take home because it was divine. The grapes here are very distinct due to the arid climate and long, hot summers in the region.
YaYaYum Boards
Ever wondered how to build your own aesthetic charcuterie board? Well YaYaYum’s hosts workshops to teach you just how with seasonal and local ingredients.
Or why not grab a takeaway charcuterie board, pop across the street, grab a bottle of wine ‘to-go’ from Messina Hof and enjoy a lovely picnic by Lake Grapevine? How romantic.
Mason & Dixie
Serving up southern comfort food with incredible flavour on the historic main street is Mason & Dixie. This adorably furnished venue is open for breakfast through to dinner. We had incredible home made waffles and pimiento cheese toast. Highly recommend!
Bacchus Kitchen + Bar
Inside Hotel Vin find an elegant and Mediterranean inspired dining experience at Bacchus. With views out to the Vintage Railroad and a perfect evening glow at golden hour, the food was as delicious as the scenery. Don’t go past the truffle pasta and I heard raving reviews about the steak.
Other venues to visit in Hotel Vin include:
– Magnum Speakeasy
Find the telephone booth and pick up the phone to gain access to this fun hidden cocktail bar.
– Harvest Hall
Multiple venues share this space that often hosts live music and events.
– Rioja Rooftop Terrace
Open on weekends for Spanish-style tapas and cocktails with a live DJ.
Things to see and do in Grapevine
Grapevine Vintage Railroad
Speaking of the railroad, if you’re visiting on a weekend, climb aboard and enjoy a ride along the Cotton Belt Route to the famous Fort Worth Stockyards. Sit in the vintage 1920’s carriages (thankfully with 2020’s air conditioning) and then spend some time at the stockyards before returning. But just a heads up, Deputy Maverick may need your help to guard the train and keep a look out for any mischievous train robbers. Help save the day during the Great Grapevine Train Heist! They also host themed rides during the holidays and their North Pole Express during winter is extremely popular.
Vetro Glassblowing
Across from the railroad, find Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Gallery where you can marvel at the beautiful glass work or get involved and create your own piece of glass art! I was lucky enough to create my very own wine glass, with the help of Dylan, a very talented glass artist. He talked me through the process, I chose my desired colours then we got to work.
It was so interesting, using furnaces that are over 2400 degrees Fahrenheit to melt the glass, then spinning the liquid glass onto a metal pipe almost like a lollypop, blowing down the pipe to expand the inside like a balloon and then mould and shape. It was a really cool (well, technically hot) experience. And my glass turned out so pretty!!
Meow Wolf
This immersive and interactive art exhibit has taken the USA by storm and they’ve just opened their fourth location in Grapevine Mills! Meow Wolf – or should I say ‘Wow’ Wolf because that came out of my mouth too many times to count – seems like a normal house when you first enter but soon you find portals into weird and wonderful worlds. It very much gave me ‘Stranger Things’ vibes. For an added crime solving twist you can solve the mystery of a missing boy by finding and piecing together clues throughout.
Chicken N Pickle
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America and this newly opened venue is the perfect place to enjoy a game. There is also Cornhole, Shuffleboard, Ping Pong and life-size Battleship, Jenga and Connect 4. An adult playground if you will. They have lots of chicken & pickle themed dishes and I actually enjoyed the fried pickle chips (this is coming from a serial pickle hater). You also have to try the Mango Jalapeno Margarita!
Historic main street
Previously mentioned winery Messina Hof is one of many historically significant buildings on the main street. It’s a replica of the original 1891 Wallis Hotel, but next door find an original home from the 1800’s named the Torian Log Cabin. Directly across the street you will see the Grapevine City Hall with the night watchmen on top of the tower, keeping guard. To the right of that, you can find the Lancaster Theatre, a restored theatre from the 1940s with the heritage lights that look dazzling come nighttime and don’t forget to say hey to Elvis in the window. There are also many significant murals in town, my favourite was the one painted on Tolbert’s Restaurant & Chili Parlor.
Wildcatter Ranch
Next stop; Wildcatter Ranch. I picked up a hire car and made the 2 hour journey out to the ranch, driving on the wrong side of the road and taking a few wrong exits because apparently when Google Maps says ‘take this exit’ it doesn’t always mean it. One wrong exit did lead me to drive past the famous Six Flags Over Texas which was the first of the franchise to open. There were countless rollercoasters as far as the eye could see. “Another time” I told myself.
As I slowly swapped stacks of overpasses for wide open roads I couldn’t help but notice the enormous size of the pick-up trucks alongside the big USA & Texas flags along the highway. The patriotism is strong here.
One stereotype I did get wrong though, was expecting a dry desert landscape filled with cactus and tumbleweeds. As I arrived at the Wildcatter Ranch, perched atop a ridge with almost 360 degree views over the surrounding plains, I noticed the rivers and vast areas covered in deep green foliage with some scattered drought stricken grass patches.
Accommodation options at Wildcatter Ranch
There are multiple accommodation options including staying in hotel rooms, cabin suites or full homesteads. The Ranch House is a gorgeous estate you can rent out for group gatherings or just to enjoy a mansion to yourself. Complete with incredible views over the Brazos River from the outdoor barbecue area, a private pool, spa and waterfall, theatre, games room and even a big barn to hosts weddings and events in.
Where to eat on the ranch
All meals can be had at the on-site steakhouse or you could pop to the nearby town of Graham, Texas. The staff and menu at the steakhouse were very accommodating to my vegetarian diet and I enjoyed a lot of tasty home cooked meals. The creamed corn, asparagus and whisky glazed carrots were highlights.
Activity options on the ranch:
- Horse trail riding
- Pony rides for kids
- Clay shooting
- Feed the longhorn cattle daily
- Spear or tomahawk throwing
- Jeep/ranch tours
- Hiking trails
- Roping or branding classes
- Relax by the infinity pool & hot tub
I watched the sunrise from my porch on the first morning and headed to the horse barn after a quick breakfast. We had to start the activities a little earlier than usual that morning due to the extreme heat. So first up was a trail ride.
Scout was the beautiful stallion with a gorgeous brown and white patch coat that I was paired with for the morning. All of the trail horses were male, as apparently they are much more relaxed than the mares. The ride was lovely, riding through grassy fields, tree covered areas and along the Brazos River. It was really peaceful and I finally found a cactus too!
Then one of the cowboys took us in the Jeep and headed to the clay shooting range. I was most nervous for this activity but also the most surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I got the clay target first go and hit 4 out of 5 in the first round. I actually had a blast (pun intended)! As the rounds got more difficult, I wasn’t as successful but I was still pretty chuffed in getting over half of them.
I had the afternoon at leisure and I had so many other activities to choose from but as the temperature soared above 43 degrees, I opted for a swim in the infinity pool and relax in my air conditioned cabin.
My final morning I got the chance to feed the Texas Longhorn Cattle. The ranch staff arrived to their paddock at 9am sharp and beeped the horn to signal that it was dinner time. It took longer than I expected to see the horns creep out from amongst their preferred resting place of the shady bushes. I can’t blame them in this heat though, it slows me down too.
Their feed consisted of palettes which we were able to hand feed to most of them, whilst keeping an eye out for their swinging horns which can reach up to 8 feet long! One of the longhorns couldn’t be hand fed due to the risk of their huge horns knocking someone. With horns that size I was not expecting the gentleness of their nature. They were like big puppy dogs, I wondered if there was a suitcase big enough to sneak one back to Australia.
As I sadly waved goodbye to the ranch, I was eagerly awaiting my next destination; a small town with a unique history and title. Mineral Wells is the wellness capital of Texas thanks to the healing properties of the water found in the deep springs underneath the town.
What is Mineral Wells known for?
The water has been bringing visitors to the town for almost 150 years and you can still find The Famous Mineral Water Company here that was established in 1904.
Their famous product; Crazy Water has a funny tale about how it got it’s name. Back in 1877 new settlers to the area drilled a well and soon noticed their arthritis subsiding. Realising the salty and often metallic taste was due to the rich vitamins & minerals underground, word quickly spread and by 1881 125 more wells were drilled and the town became famous.
Why is Mineral Wells water called crazy water?
One of the wells was dubbed the ‘Crazy Well’ due to a crazy old lady that sat by it and drank it every day until she became not so crazy anymore. The water from this well contained high levels of lithium which is used as a mood stabiliser to treat mental health disorders even today. Pretty crazy, right?
This town’s story fascinated me the most, paired with the grandeur of the famous Baker Hotel; that hosted the rich and famous throughout the 1900s until its closure in 1972. It’s closure and the rise in modern medicine unfortunately slowed interest in visiting the town for it’s healing waters. The FDA also made it really difficult for any businesses to promote health benefits. But with natural health remedies rising in popularity and more people seeking alternative options, visitors are returning to Mineral Wells. Since 2019 the Baker has been under restoration and the hotel & spa plan to re-open in 2026, so the whole town is gearing up for a new wave of tourism.
Where to stay in Mineral Wells
The Crazy Water Hotel – which is actually even older than the Baker Hotel – also had a recent refurbishment and I was lucky enough to stay here during my visit. As I entered my suite my jaw dropped at the modern and elegant suite standing before me. With a full lounge area, dining, fully equipped kitchen, huge bedroom and a stunning all white and marble bathroom with a shower I could have drove my car into and a free standing bath.
The heritage building has kept historic features such as doors, hallway carpets, fixtures and fittings but the new suites are a far cry from what they would have been when the hotel opened over 100 years ago. All of the suites and apartments feel like a home away from home. If only my home looked like this.
It was the perfect base to explore the town, situated on the main street within walking distance to everything. The Crazy Water Coffee Bar inside the hotel made delicious coffee with the famous water, I highly recommend the red velvet or matcha coffees! There is also a salon in the hotel building that offers facials with crazy water along with local shops and a brewery. Austin’s beloved restaurant Second Bar + Kitchen moved to its new location inside the Crazy Water Hotel in October 2023.
The best places to eat and drink in Mineral Wells
If you eat one thing in Texas, let it be the the home-made banana pudding by the Smokin 3 Cs Food Truck. The flavours from this smoky bbq kitchen on wheels certainly packed a punch, it was all so delicious. The food truck is often parked in Poston Square, opposite the Bankhead Texas Wine Bar. Bring your food inside the wine bar and choose from a great selection of locally grown wines (or try a wine tasting) while enjoying some live music and a fun atmosphere.
The best things to see and do in Mineral Wells
Being a small town there isn’t a crazy amount of things to do… but there are definitely crazy things to do.
Crazy Water Bath House & Spa
Enjoy a bath soak in the mineral rich water which help to cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize and remove toxins from the body. After my 20 minute soak the bath water actually had floating bits in it which I was told was my dead skin (that’s never happened before) and often noticeable toxin rings can be seen following the soaks. They also offer incredible massages and spa products to take home.
Mural tour
It might be a small town but it has a large number of colourful artworks and murals to discover and there is a murals map to help you hunt them all down. Some of them have really heartwarming local stories and some are actually ghost murals; which could have been old signs or advertisements from years ago that were found recently under layers of paint.
Clark Gardens
A garden that started as a passion project by Mr & Mrs Clark soon turned into their legacy. Mrs Clark unfortunately passed away in 2012 and her husband who is now 95 years old honours their love and her memory with one of the most beautiful gardens in the country.
Lake Mineral Wells & Penitentiary Hollow
Enjoy beautiful nature walks around Lake Mineral Wells State Park, boating or fishing on the lake or rock climbing at Penitentiary Hollow.
Dallas
Last but definitely not least is Dallas. The Dallas/Fort Worth/Arlington area is the fourth largest metropolitan area in the US and one of the fastest growing cities in the country. It’s cemented itself as an up-and-coming travel destination thanks to it’s transformation into a culture and arts hub.
The city streets are incredibly clean and the architecture was something really unexpected. There were buildings that looked straight out of New York City, some more Boston-esque and some grungy artsy neighbourhoods that look to have been plucked straight out of London or Melbourne. Then you can get a taste of Los Angeles at Highland Park. Find many multi-million dollar mansions and an upmarket shopping precinct that was designed by the same developer as Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.
Where to stay in Dallas
Dallas is quite spread out but staying central in Downtown makes getting around much easier. The newly opened JW Marriott is in the Dallas Arts District and within minutes walking distance to many entertainment venues, museums, dining and shopping.
Skyline views are guaranteed from your room as all hotel rooms sit above the 13th floor and include floor-to-ceiling windows. Nothing beats going to sleep under the city lights. My room was modern, sleek and extremely comfortable and the hotel itself boasts an 11th story pool, incredible restaurant, a sky bar and an executive lounge with food, coffee, stocked mini bars and more.
Hotel Swexan is another sophisticated and elegant hotel option close by that recently opened. With a rooftop pool and numerous lounges, bars and restaurants throughout, it stylishly mixes Swiss hospitality with Texan charm.
The best things to do in Dallas
From intricate paintings & art sculptures to panoramic views and dancing fountains, this city definitely has something for everyone.
Sweet Tooth Hotel
No, it’s not a real hotel, even though I wish it was. Sweet Tooth Hotel is an interactive art museum full of colour and fun photo opportunities! Get a hotel key that unlocks all of the funky rooms and find more hidden rooms behind secret doors. Stop at the Calirosa Cocktail Bar after for some sweet cocktails served in cute glasses (try the Bubble Duckie for a drink served in a mini bathtub with a tiny rubber duckie).
Reunion Tower GeO-Deck
Unbeatable 360 degree panoramic views of the city skyline, famous bridges and beyond. Perfect for day or night viewing (or both!).
Dallas Arts District
Full of a unique array of museums and gallery and right in the heart of Downtown. Find:
- Dallas Museum of Art
- AT&T Performing Arts Center
- Nasher Sculpture Park
- Watch the Dallas Symphony Orchestra at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
- Klyde Warren Park
Old City Park
See what Texas would have looked like in the 19th century at Old City Park. Here you can find the largest collection of Victorian style homes and commercial buildings in Texas that were transported from all across the state. There is a shop, bank, bar, school, hotel, a working blacksmith and a range of homes of different classes and time periods. The shop was especially interesting, seeing old catalogues and pricing examples from that time period with helpful conversion charts to todays pricing.
Deep Ellum
Deep Ellum is a hub for live entertainment and is actually the live music capital of North Texas. The streets are colourful and full of murals yet grungy with exposed dark brick, black iron detailing, exposed hanging lightbulbs and quirky signs. Don’t miss a walk down Blues Alley, a block-long mural (that is being extended) paying homage to Dallas’ musical heritage. A feast of famous Texan BBQ brisket and ribs can be had at Terry Black’s BBQ. Make sure to pair that with a refreshing Black Margarita.
Bishops Art District
A chic and colourful neighbourhood that is full of Instagrammable shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. It is super lively with a young and fun atmosphere. Try Paradiso, a pink and plant themed eatery with a gorgeous outdoor patio. Or pop into the funky Bar Eden next door for a cocktail. Don’t miss a stop at Revelers Hall to watch live jazz performances.
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Visit one of the top botanical gardens in the world. Beautifully manicured and arranged along White Rock Lake with views across the lake and to the city skyline.
The Sixth Floor Museum
A museum dedicated to former US president John F. Kennedy and his life and legacy. The sixth floor of this old warehouse is where Lee Harvey Oswald stood when he assassinated the president and the exhibit also chronicles the criminal investigation, trial and speculations/conspiracy theories that followed.
Downtown Dallas
Some areas to consider visiting include:
- Pioneer Plaza
- AT&T Discovery District and the Adolphus Hotel
- The Art of the Joule and The Eye
- Thanks-giving Square and The Chapel of Thanksgiving (look up!)
- Victory Park
Nancy Best Fountain Show
Every night between 7-10pm the Nancy Best Fountains and lights synchronise dance to the music and guests are encouraged to play in the water. This is especially enjoyable during the scorching summer nights.
Perot Museum
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science takes a hands-on approach to learning and it’s one of the most interactive and fun museums I have been to. There are countless opportunities for you to actually interact with the exhibits including testing your reaction time, your energy & brainwaves, creating music, playing with robots, racing animals and professional athletes, experience what it feels like in an earthquake, read the news and so much more.
Wild Bill’s Western Store
If Texas was a retail store, this is what it would look like. Find cowboy/girl hats, boots and outfits along with authentic souvenirs. An iconic venue to visit in the city.
Mesquite Rodeo
The rodeo capital of Texas is only a 20 minute drive from Dallas in Mesquite. The Mesquite Championship Rodeo is held every Saturday night during the summer months.
Whilst a lot of the event was entertaining and lighthearted, I have to be honest and say that some of the events made me very uncomfortable as an animal lover. I did do research before attending and read about laws in the US that stop rodeos from causing pain to the animals. From what I read the extreme bucking is a genetic behaviour encouraged by discomfort from a strap wrapped tightly around their stomach near their hind legs (but apparently not so tight that it causes pain).
Unfortunately even knowing this, I still felt really sorry for most of the animals as they looked distressed. So if you are also sensitive to animal treatment and welfare then this might not be the event for you. It definitely was an authentic and unique experience though.
Where to eat and drink in Dallas
And of course I have to share my favourite dining experiences in the city you need to try.
Margaret’s
If you only have one meal in Dallas, let it be here. This was one of the most delicious dinners I have ever had. The 11th story restaurant inside the JW Marriott has gorgeous skyline views and I would encourage you to time your visit with sunset for golden magic while you feast.
The Round-Up Saloon
What’s a visit to Texas without a dance at a saloon? The Round-Up Saloon & Dance Hall is a country western gay bar, once voted in the top six gay clubs in the country. They host free dance lessons three times a week which has built an amazing community and it was beautiful watching them all line dance in unison.
The Library Bar
A dim-lit bar situated in the Warwick Hotel named “the Top Place to Sip and Sup” by the Wall Street Journal, one of the best “Seduction Spots” by Playboy magazine and consistently chosen as one of Dallas’ best piano bars. Smooth live jazz plays nightly to enjoy with their signature cocktails.
Isabelle’s
A cocktail lounge and Europe-inspired restaurant on the ground floor of Hotel Swexan.
Revolvers Taco Lounge
Recently featured in ‘Taco Chronicles Cross The Border’ on Netflix, this taco lounge was a great place to grab a delicious taco and other Mexican dishes in an informal setting.
Terry Black’s BBQ
Terry’s can be found in the same neighbourhood. Enjoy a classic Texas BBQ meal of brisket or ribs and you can even see how the meat is cooked in the BBQ smokers and grills behind the restaurant. Pair it with a refreshing Black Margarita.
Paradiso & Eden Bar
Stylish venues that are as beautiful as they are lively. Enjoy European style dining at Paradiso and delicious cocktails and drinks at Bar Eden.
Flower Child
A fresh and healthy dining experience where they make everything from scratch and cater for all dietary requirements. Food that’s good for your soul and your belly.
That’s all folks
All I can say is Dallas and North Texas are a destination to watch! The mix of unique experiences, a thriving metropolitan with new funky art spaces opening all the time paired with that southern charm and Texas hospitality is a dangerously good concoction. There’s a reason cowgirl boots are in fashion, cause the Wild West sure is too!
Howdy next time Texas, the pleasure has been all mine and I hope ya’ll love it just as much as I have.
