There’s no doubt about it, Austin, TX has quickly become one of the trendiest new travel destinations for a party weekend. The Texas capital has a thriving nightlife and tons to do to burn off a hangover. Want to avoid the college kid crowds but still experience the ultimate Austin party-scene? Here’s your grownup’s guide to a weekend of drinking and playing around Austin.
This adorable Texas town packs a hill country punch, without the drive. Glen Rose is an easy day trip from Dallas or Fort Worth that is well worth the venture. In just one day, you can hit up a hike at Dinosaur Valley State Park, grab a bite in the historic town center, and cool off in the river at Big Rock Park. For those planning on spending the weekend in Glen Rose, stay at most darling Airbnb treehouse and take your time exploring. Glen Rose might be a small-town, but boy is it mighty.
They say everything’s bigger in Texas and boutique hotels are no exception, bringing an artistic vantage point to your vacation — no matter the destination. With artistic touches and unique amenities, a stay at any of these DFW spots is opting for an experience of its own. From the fun to the funky to the fresh, we’ve got you covered with the top boutique hotels in Dallas, Fort Worth and beyond.
Aching for activities around Dallas that are rich in history, culture, and art — without the price tag to match? There are a ton of free cultural activities around DFW to indulge in, giving plenty of options for the budget-conscious traveler - all without eliminating the experience. Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or nature lover, these free activities in Dallas are sure to land.
Toto, we’re not in Plano anymore, I giggle to myself as I peer over the Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve from my treetop perch. The shadowy tree coverage comes as an unexpected oasis. As I step up to the first zip line, a soothing stream runs fifty feet or so beneath me. It’s not so soothing as I take the plunge off of the platform.
This is the first of five full obstacles to complete over the course of my three-hour time slot at Go Ape. As soon as I feel the slack tighten, a wave of security washes over me. At the end track, I’m graciously greeted by a pile of mulch to make my landing softer. Have no fear, I found myself buried among the mulch every. single. time. But it’s all good — I gave that pile purpose.
I set out with one mission: to climb, crawl and swing from the trees at this zip lining and climbing facility plopped in a Plano nature preserve. After signing a quick waiver at my arrival, my sought after adventure slapped me in the face as I was strapped into my harness. Oooo, oh, yep, I’m definitely secured in here. Together with their trained staff, I went through a mandatory safety training. We started slow to help learn the steps. I only almost let the metal trolley slam into my shin once after they told me to be careful. Go, team!
Now, I’m continuing on my treetop journey, inching my way along the trails from above. I can see my fellow athletes (a father son duo and a team building work group) planted on platforms scattered throughout the forest. The wooden structures themselves are carefully constructed, in participation with the nature preserve, to assure conservation – a cool bonus to an already awesome activity.
It doesn’t take long before I fall into a comfortable climb, turning into the treetop performer joking to the staff down below. The true test comes when I bounce from a strip of dangling circular swings (that I successfully fall off of) to another strip of hanging rings. After my first failure, I commit to the cause and calmly make my way across, slipping my hiking boots in and out of the slots. Talk about a jungle gym.
As I slide down the final zip line, I can’t comprehend how three hours came and went so quickly. That thought is interrupted when I come to soft stop in the mulch, followed by a burst of laughter; a move that I immediately regret only because mulch in the mouth isn’t as welcomed as when it’s under you. As I exit, I shrug with satisfaction. Yep, I’m officially an American Ninja Warrior.
From rustic cabins to vintage airstreams, there are more opportunities for glamping in DFW than one might catch at first glance. Glamping is optimal during the Texas summertime stickiness or winter chills. Want to stay a stone’s throw from society but feel refreshed after a weekend retreat? Here are the best glamping grounds in DFW for visitors and locals alike.
Hear ye, hear ye! If you’ve ever wondered what it’d be like to step back in time, this is the DFW fest for you. The Scarborough Renaissance Festival is a plunge into the past for DFW natives and area visitors alike.
While it’s completely possible that I’m a rare breed in my fascination over butter churning and consuming food with my hands, the Scarborough Renaissance Festival has something for everyone. Whether you’re diving right in, decking yourself out with renaissance garb or simply dipping your toes in the water and grabbing a turkey leg, this two-month-long, annual Waxahachie experience shouldn’t be skipped.
On any Saturday or Sunday in April and May between 10 am – 7 pm, step back in time to the ‘village’ of Scarborough. Tickets are good for an entire day at the festival and land at $28 per adult and $13 for children. This is no pop-up marketing ploy either. The commitment exhibited by the performers, vendors, and attendees makes for the most magical time, truly allowing you to party like it’s 1561.
Here’s the thing. You can come as you are. Tons of people prep for this year-round, pulling out the perfect ensemble for the occasion, but it’s totally fine if you aren’t feeling up to the challenge. For those curious or unsure, hop on in and feel it out. There are costume rental spots and vendors selling accessories if you change your mind.
Small bags are allowed, but just need to be checked upon entry. Come with cash to avoid the extra ATM fee. The local watering holes only accept cash for their tasty ales and wine.
After parking in a massive field on the outskirts of the festival, you’ll approach a castle-like entrance, likely hearing horns and bagpipes playing from over the wall. Pick up your tickets and prepare to enter the renaissance era.
You’ll see everything from fairies to elves to Daenerys Targaryen herself wandering the grounds. 90% of the structures are permanent with incredibly authentic architecture, leaving you wanting to rent one of the rooms upstairs.
There are over 200 performances daily – ranging from fire whippers to sword throwers to flying freak shows. There are a few ways to confront this conundrum. Pick up a schedule and direct yourself to your preferred showcases OR wing it and wander around the grounds to see what sorcery you can stumble upon. The pro tip is taking the second rec.
Obviously, you must indulge in a juicy turkey leg and savory chicken on a stick. Grab a leg and an ale to soak it down with and plop yourself alongside a musical stage for optimal people watching. (If you’re not a fan of meat, don’t worry — The festival actually has quite a few vegan and vegetarian options!).
Last but not least, there’s a daily jousting tournament where you can pick your house, hooting and hollering with the rest of the crowd. There’s a wine tasting that takes place a stone’s throw away from the arena where you can sip from a safe distance if you so choose.
Well, what are you waiting for? Get out there and revel in the realm.
Last Thursday, I kicked off my weekend early by sipping wine outdoors while soaking up live music and a Texas sunset at Twilight Tunes in Denton, TX. The cool and quaint downtown Denton came alive with music flooding the streets and shimmers of sunshine breaking through the trees, casting shadows on the historic courthouse. This annual outdoor concert series quickly became one of my new favorite ways to wind down after a long week.
For those searching for live music in DFW with a connected community feel, Twilight Tunes is your answer. Here’s everything you need to know about this free Denton tradition.
For those who can get down with some movin’ and a-groovin’ all evening long, Denton’s Twilight Tunes series is for you. Sit, stand or take to some wonderful people-watching at one of DFW’s best live music series. From hula hooping teens to dancing toddlers, Twilight Tunes is truly an experience for all ages. Even dogs are allowed to enjoy the tunes, as long as they’re well-behaved and on a leash.
The Spring and Summer series in 2019 takes place on Thursdays from April 18 to June 27, with the fall series starting up again on Thursdays in October. You’ll want to get there before 6:30 PM when local musicians start performing. If you end up running a little late, don’t fret — the tunes continue until 8 PM. Follow the sounds of music until you find the party at Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Lawn, 110 W. Hickory Street.
Chairs, blankets, booze, oh my! Because Twilight Tunes is an open, outdoor event, feel free to bring anything that might make the evening more comfortable. The pros bring dinner fixings ranging from entire pizza orders to bottles of wine and beers for sipping (and yes, it’s legal to publicly drink on the Courthouse Lawn). You can snag all of this on your way to the Square — Just swing by J&Js for the pizza and Midway Mart on Carroll and W Hickory for the rest.
Be sure to bring a comfortable cushion to sit on to save your back or opt for a chair to keep off the lawn. Oh, and a little bug spray never hurt nobody.
Plan to head down to the Downtown Denton Square early to sip and shop around the incredible storefronts. This part of town is littered with wonderful oddities and specialty shops — a personal favorite is Recycled Books. If you can’t come early, opt for dinner to follow. Barley & Board is ideal for tapas-style dining with friends or turn to LSA Burger Co. for a fun, family environment made complete with a food coma.
For those heading to Twilight Tunes without kiddos in tow, make plans to grab a cocktail at Paschall Bar, Denton’s local speakeasy, after dinner. Look for a door to the right of Andy’s and head upstairs to find this hidden oasis. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
This year is the 27th annual installment of the Thursday night lawn series, serving as a true testament to Twilight Tunes’ success. Hosted by the Denton Main Street Association, the weekly series starts in the spring, takes a temporary summer vacation, and returns for the fall weather.
While there’s only a short time left to hit a show this season before it wraps up on Thursday, June 27, Twilight Tunes will be back in the fall for more music, memories, and entertainment. Check their events calendar later this summer for exact dates.
It’s no secret that a prepping for a day at Six Flags can feel a bit daunting — especially once you realize that our very own DFW Six Flags Over Texas is the original Six Flags theme park, built back in 1961. The park itself got its name from the six different countries that ruled over modern-day Texas up until that point in history.
The beloved theme park chain is now known for its seasonal celebrations ranging from the horrifying Fright Fest with scream-tastic attractions to the festive Holiday in The Park decked out with holiday cheer. Plus, word on the street is that starting next year you can head to the Thrill Capital of Texas year-round.
The OG Six Flags Over Texas is a massive 212-acre property packed with thrills, treats and games that could overwhelm a first-timer. That’s why we put together the official Insider’s Guide to Six Flags Over Texas. Shall we get going?
Head left from the entrance of the park toward ‘Mexico’. For those who took more into the park than they’d like to carry, look for the lockers along the way to store your stuff for the day.
Start on the moderate La Vibora where you’ll ride like a bobsled through the belly of a snake. While slightly smaller and slacking on the loops, this trackless rollercoaster makes for a unique ride. If spinning’s more your thing, hit the La Fiesta de las Tazas teacups or go crazy on El Diablo.
You’ve got two storefronts to pop into after your first few rides. Whether it’s browsing or buying, it’s a great time to take a quick breather and begin to prepare for the true thrill rides. Casa de Six Flags and the Indian Trading Company are close and have all things Texas merch.
For those feeling up to it, hit the Titan while you’re on this side of the park. This max thrill hits a whopping 85 mph with a drop of 255-feet. Then wander over to the wooden New Texas Giant – the tallest hybrid coaster in the world. Pro tip: hit the bathroom near the entrance of the Titan before you get in line.
From cabarets to wild west gunfight comedies, consult with the Six Flag’s daily schedule to see what’s playing. You’re in a hot spot with five different theaters all within a stone’s throw. Perhaps now is the right time to grab a soda to settle your stomach and prep for more adventure.
The only question is: Runaway Mountain or the Shock Wave first? Runaway Mountain is an indoor max-thrill rollercoaster that takes you through a cave adventure in total darkness. The Shock Wave is slightly more moderate but hits a record-setting classic double loop.
Ready to take another breather and grab some go-to park goodies? You’re right near a few classics, depending on your cravings. Red River Funnel Cakes delivers for the sweet tooth. Philly Cheesecake will fill you up with loaded tots, fried pickles, cheesecakes — and beer. And if your more into the grab and go classics, hit Newman’s Corn Dogs.
If it’s Texas in the summertime, you’re surely ready to hit the water rides and cool off by now. If you’re blazing, take the whitewater rapid ride over by the food first, otherwise head straight to stop seven for Six Flag’s newest addition, AQUAMAN: Power Wave, and take a steep plunge into a pool. Hit Daffy Duck’s for a family-friendly splash.
Perhaps the most unique ride at Six Flags Over Texas is BATMAN The Ride — a rollercoaster where you’re strapped into a seat, but your feet dangle beneath you. Despite being non-traditional, this rollercoaster is the perfect introduction to loop-the-loops. The JOKER and CATWOMAN Whip are max thrill rides that can follow if you dare.
Any last desires? Second rides perhaps? This is the moment as you’ve officially made it to the top spots around Six Flags Over Texas. Take your time exploring, hit the neighboring kiddie-rides or just grab a Slurpee and celebrate a day well spent while watching your fellow riders take flight.
