Texas Road Trip: The Crossroads of Soul and Stories

Kick off your day at Allens Boots, an Austin institution. Packed with cowboy boots, hats and Western wear, this legendary shop lets you customize your boots for a truly personal touch.

Looking for a fancier boot style with one-of-a-kind designs? Head to Heritage Boots just down South Congress Avenue. For a quirky experience, check out Monkey See Monkey Do, known for its cool staff and unique finds. And don’t forget to fuel your shopping spree with delicious bites from nearby food trucks, serving everything from Texas barbecue to family-style Italian street eats – all tasty and fairly priced.

Austin proudly claims the title of Live Music Capital of the World®, and South Congress is a great place to experience that vibrant energy. In addition to cool shops, it’s also filled with street performers, hip restaurants and fantastic live music venues.

For a deeper dive into Austin’s music scene, check out The Continental Club, where acts from all genres have rocked the stage. Or, head to C-Boy’s Heart & Soul, a swanky neighborhood juke joint for soul and R&B, featuring the cozy upstairs Jade Room inspired by 1950s Japanese GI bars. For a classic honky-tonk experience, take a short drive to Broken Spoke, a historic venue where icons like Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton have performed.

End the day big! Head to Buck Wild on East Sixth Street and hold on tight for a spin on the mechanical bull. Whether you’re a rodeo pro or just in it for the laughs, this ride is sure to unleash your inner cowboy. The atmosphere is wild (in the best way), and the drinks are ice-cold and refreshing.

If you're looking to keep that cowboy spirit alive, Austin’s got plenty more to offer. Two-step over to The White Horse for live country music and dancing, or head to Bull & Bowl to ride another bull, try duckpin bowling and play classic arcade games.

Take a scenic drive from Austin to Gruene, a charming town in the heart of Texas Hill Country. Stop for lunch at the iconic Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar on the Guadalupe River, where you can savor delicious comfort food with a side of peaceful surroundings.

While in Gruene, stroll through its historic streets and explore unique antique shops. Don’t miss Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest dance hall, where you can catch live music and chat with friendly locals. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Guadalupe River offers tubing, kayaking or simply relaxing by the water.

Hit the road from Gruene to San Antonio and dive into the city’s fascinating Spanish colonial past. When you arrive, make The Alamo your first stop. This legendary spot is where the 1836 battle for independence occurred, and it’s one place to feel the city's true spirit.

Beyond the Alamo, San Antonio is packed with cultural gems. Check out San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that further tells the story of the city’s roots. For art lovers, the San Antonio Museum of Art offers an incredible collection that spans centuries and continents.

Hop on a Go Rio River Cruise and experience San Antonio’s River Walk like never before. Drift along the scenic waterway while local guides serenade you with music and share cool stories about the city’s history.

When you're back on land, stroll along the River Walk and check out the charming boutiques, restaurants and cafes. Grab a bite at spots like Boudro’s Texas Bistro for a delicious meal and margaritas, or chill at Casa Rio, one of the oldest restaurants along the waterfront.

Just an hour from San Antonio, you’ll find Fredericksburg, a charming town known for Texas wine, great food, shopping and German heritage. First stop: Pontotoc Vineyard, a family-friendly hidden gem offering breathtaking views, local wines and a welcoming staff eager to share their wine knowledge.

Beyond Pontotoc, explore Grape Creek Vineyards, which specializes in French and Italian varietals with Tuscan-inspired tasting rooms. For a taste of Germany, head to The Ausländer, a cozy spot offering a large beer selection and classic Bavarian dishes.