What a great zoo. Reasonably priced. Wide variety of animals that seem to be well cared for. Family friendly activities available to interact with the animals for an additional fee. $3 to feed the giraffes. It is undergoing improvements, so some construction to work around. Beautiful day😎 Free parking across the street.

We went here for a little adventure while on our honeymoon. We had a great time. We felt the zoo was overall very clean and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. The animals all appeared to be well cared for including: lots of feed, healthy coats/feathers, well kept habitats with lots of space, and more. There was a large variety of animals to view and learn about; from all over the globe. It was 1000% worth the 40 minute drive from south padre. We look forward to sharing it with our kids one day!

We visited Gladys Porter Zoo on Father's Day this past Sunday. It is summertime and it gets hot by 11am so we decided to get there as early as possible. It was nice because there was no wait for the line. The big cats were still sleeping, but we were able to still catch a glance at them. We were hoping to see the otters, bears, and bald eagles, but they were not available that day. That was alright with us because we still saw many animals. They had plenty of vending machines and snacks bars available so you don't have to worry about food. We bought an Icee and a Gatorade because it really started getting pretty hot towards the middle of our journey. It took us about 2 hours to get around the whole park. We have a ten and five year old and we took a wagon for them to ride, so I highly recommend taking something of the sort to parents. The aquarium and the reptile areas are so beautiful, especially the aquarium. The jellyfish are so colorful and breathtaking! We had two free child passes our kids got from their schools so between my husband and I the entrance fee was $40.

We went to the zoo this weekend, the first weekend they operated their Soaring Eagle zipline. Yes, it’s amazing and it probably goes a little higher than you might think. The tickets were $8 per person and you need to buy them at the entrance. The wait time was about 45 minutes and the ride lasts about 35 seconds. Video and photos of the ride are sold online for $12 for both. It’s definitely worth it. Everyone loved and raved about it. The views from the top are stunning. Gives you a shot of dopamine! Shout out to the women employees running a very smooth operation on Sunday, July 13. The line was handled efficiently and expediently with courteous manner. Sounds easy, but with the heat, an endless line and crying kids, it takes some professionalism and patience to pull it off. Thank you, ladies!

Surprisingly good zoo in Brownsville. I was impressed with the different animals and their habitats. It was almost empty but clearly is set up for large crowds. Definitely visit, even from Harlingen or padre Island.

It was ok. Animals were just chillin around. Zoo is large enough to take around 2 hours to fully walk through, a lil more if you take your time. Overall it was a good time and lil kids will definitely enjoy. Full disclosure we visited on a $2 per person ticket day and also this was my first visit after nearly 20 years. They don't have elephants anymore.

I’ve been coming here my whole life, and I have to say it’s been amazing to see it improve and consistently have people who care about the animals, and love their job, the entire time. Being able to visit here helped me realize my passion was working with animals, and that’s something I’m immensely grateful for. They have a variety of cafes that are open on some parts of the year, some of the snacks are overpriced but I think they’re always worth it. There’s two gift shops and both are really nice! They have books, shirts, mugs, jewelry, plushies, toys, water bottles, basically everything. The animal enclosures themselves are super nice. They offer all kinds of enrichment and some feeding opportunities for the critters! I think the herpetarium is definitely the most beautiful exhibit, as well as the aquarium. Also, I love the kangaroos (as you can tell.) I spend atleast 20 minutes watching them every time. They’re so cute! So yes, this place is definitely worth the visit. 🦘❤️

It's an outlet mall that is outdoors. They have some covered walkways. We saw security zipping around on a three wheeler. None of the stores post their hours. Their bathrooms are fair. There is a food court but we did not stop. Large parking lot with some shade.

Good food, but the air-conditioning in the food court was not on. Spoke to an employee in the food court and said that air-conditioning has been broken for a month. I can't believe that any business will allow this to happen.!

Good place to visit. Personally I still believe that is a bit pricy given that are an outlet mall On the other hand there's stores direct from the brand such as Adidas, CK, Fossil and have products not easily found at other stores. Good tip here is that on vacation seasons, many of the stores have online offers that you can combine with other promos in store and get good deals sometimes

Pretty okay, I like it, but in the summer it's WAYY to hot to be walking so I recommend bringing a little fan for you to cool and also wear shorts. also a little warning whenever I walk through some areas it literally smells like dog poop and it disgusts me.

The stores are nice, if you’re a person who doesn’t tolerate hot weather then you should be careful about this place considering that is an open space. You have a lot of brands and a lot of stores, so please take your time so you can check and compare prices, try the clothes and enjoy the view. They do have sales and good discounts, just read the conditions. Be aware that you will feel thirsty, but don’t worry, you can find spots with good snacks, they sell ice cream, corns, Cheetos, etc.

Its ok. Many empty stores. Prices can be good..some not. You think word Outlet and hope its cheaper.. NOT. Be ready to sweat. Its outdoor halls.

Good selection of stores but most are past season

This place is so adorable and we didn’t even knew it was there until we got the opportunity to participate in this amazing event they do every year called Monarch Fest. We were glad that we were part of the vendors this year. It’s a beautiful place to all the family to enjoy. The house is full of history, I’m sharing a photo of the original owners face sculpted in a square of the front door. The the original wood on ceilings, the floor, the gardens and plants, the bird singing… it feels like you are in another place and era. We were in our booth and we saw a small snake crossing in front of people from one side to the other. I really want to thank the people who work preserving and taking care of this place Definitely you must visit this place and enjoy the different activities they have in their calendar.

It was something so beautiful. I had so much fun walking the trails 👣 there is a lot to see and enjoy. I loved it.

Really cool historical home. Went mid October and they decorated their nature trail with so many awesome decorations. Loved seeing the historical bathroom with a tile tub. Everyone was nice. Great place to visit if you're in town.

This adobe mansion and gardens is a treasure! There are bronze animal statues all throughout the walking trails. The Chacalacas are in mating season and communicating very loudly! The house from the 1930's is gorgeous. A major expansion is coming in 2026. Parking is scarce now. Come early.

Another great place/park/little museum to wander through. Saw lots of birds and my first view of a Chacalaca. Yes it's a thing! Friendly and helpful staff let you know where to go for the best success!

Came here for the first time and was pleasantly surprised! It is so peaceful! The trails are nice and you see so many birds. Wonderful place for events too and if you are a local they have yoga classes! I highly recommend.

A must visit nature place. Great for all ages. Go and love nature. Learn and Grow and Educate. Let's take care of Quinta Mazatlan. Imagine if we all had our landscaping similar to Quinta Mazatlan. Mother Nature would be happy. Happy trails everyone. Keep exploring.

Very knowledgeable staff on hand, 1/2 hr documentary video about the battle for Iwo Jima (sulfur island). Very informative & interesting.

A great stop for a dose of local and national history. The grounds are very well kept and everything is in walking distance. There are a few places to sit and take in the scenery and honor this place holds. The staff are so very kind and knowledgeable and willing to share lots of history or let you read on your own if you prefer.

I’m ashamed to admit that I’ve lived here my whole life and this is the first time I stop by. It was very touching. Please don’t do what I did. Just swing by. There’s also a little museum and gift shop. Wonderful people running it.

I always love visiting this memorial. I also needed some new Marine Corps shirts and caps. Larger than life memorial. SEMPER FI.

The history of WWII up close & within touch. The 32 minute documentary of Iwo Jima keeps you mesmerized and helps you realize the importance of this battle in the south pacific. The actual statue is majestic & beautiful and makes you feel how important our flag is to our freedom. God Bless and Enjoy this little nook of history in Harlingen Tx.

This Monument and museum are must sees for anyone with an interest in the history of the war in the Pacific. It was a surprise to know that this monument was the casting for the Iwo Jima Memorial in Arlington and was donated by the artist.

Amazing!!! A must visit when in the area. Not only do you see the original casting of the flag raising, but the historic museum. The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable and are willing to talk with you about the history. Gift shop available.

Very friendly people at the visitors center, we had interesting birds showing up as soon as we arrived! The feeder walk has a pretty variety, and the other trails and even the roads going to and from the refuge also proved to be fascinating and full of wildlife, even on a rainy and windy day!

All the buildings were closed due to the government shutdown? But someone was still maintaining the restrooms and the park was still open. It was a really nice park and we enjoyed visiting and seeing the wildlife there.

Beautiful views and well maintained trails. Very clean.

This was such a great place to explore. The visitor center has an excellent path to a blind for bird watching. I appreciated all the signs that cautioned about encountering wildlife, so my companion and I walked only a very small part of the trails. We drove to the lookout over the lagoon and were not disappointed; it’s quite beautiful, and there are many birds to see. Driving away slowly from the lookout, we saw an ocelot cross the road about 30 yards ahead of us. Go slowly, and you’ll be amazed.

We had an amazing time! Full moon view.

This is one of my favorite places to visit. So much wildlife to see. We ride the 14 mile loop on our bikes and are never disappointed.

Able to see many different birds in the blinds surrounding the visitor center. We able to see the Harris Hawk, Black tuffed Titmouse, Green Jays, Red Winged Blackbirds, starlings and Golden Fronted Woodpeckers. BUT the best was the visitor center. The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable! And don’t forget the shop which has wonderful merchandise… kudos to this great sanctuary. Well worth the visit!

Wonderful visitor center with an informative historical film, captioned hanging photos throughout, books, and King Ranch memorabilia. Convenient restrooms in a nearby building. Take the 90-minute King Ranch historical/informative bus tour that drives through the local grounds. See the Santa Gertrudis Cattle and the Quarter Horses as well as Longhorns and Caracara falcons. Learn about the rich history of the family that began, still resides on, and is still involved with the ranch. We were very pleased with Gabe as our guide; he was well informed and was a pleasure to meet.

It was OK - it's pricey for what you get. FYI, You can drive the area and read about the history and current operation for FREE It asked if I recommend buying tickets in advance, I recommend you don't buy tickets. But if you are down for paying for sitting on a bus when you can see the ranch for free, then yes, buy tickets in advance

The King Ranch Visitor centers offers a quaint selection of King Ranch memorabilia. Numerous books regarding various King Ranch related history, cookbooks, hats, shirts, t-shirts, etc. There is also a 30+ minute video that relates some of the history of the King Ranch, its early beginnings, the expansion, and ongoing operations. Very interesting video. We also took the history tour that last for 90 minutes. It was absolutely great.

I mean, it's a small store with a desk clerk ready to process your purchase of t shirts that don't fit because they don't restock common sizes like Large and medium. The coolest stuff there you cannot buy like a king ranch branded sowboy boot and a studfed rattler. Idk. I guess I expected more. I get that it's a working ranch and tourist stuff is probably the last thing on their mind. But I wish they'd put more creative throught into their gift shop buying. Awesome t shirts rather than lame ones. The mugs are ok I guess. But no beer glasses. They have books on the 300+ species of bird on the ranch... Not that that isn't intereseting... But that's the stuff we're talking about. They need leather goods, sweet artisan style shirts, hats, boots with the brand in the sole, belt buckles, branded cast iron, history books, watch bands, cigars... All things manly. Unless you're going to go on the tour, might as well skip that detour.

Wonderful and very informative tour with tour guide Doug! He has a lot of historic knowledge. He’s such a special soul! Loved everything about it! Highly recommend! Greetings from Germany :-)

Great tour guide but worst tour ever. Difficult to take pictures from inside a crowded bus. We were not allowed outside the bus because of the possibility of being bitten by a rattlesnake. The view of the main house was anti-climactic. The bus drove by what looked like the back of the house, which meant that people on the opposite side of the bus couldn’t even take a quick picture of it. No stops to see inside a barn or bunkhouse. Primarily just stops to look at cattle of different breeds and a few horses in fields. Definitely not worth the money. And don’t get me started about the visitor center. No photography allowed. The one person at the front stopped my wife and told her no photos. It’s the only interaction we had with the staff there. Interesting museum but to charge an entrance fee and not allow personal photos is ridiculous.

This interesting tour covers the gambit from Texas history, ranching practices, wildlife management and so much more. You'll see all kinds of flora and fauna, you'll see historic structures and implements, you'll see beautiful cattle and horses, and an array of creatures in their natural habitat. This tour packs it into 90 minutes which goes by in a flash.

This was such an amazing visit! It is a bit on the pricy side (+$7 parking) but it’s worth it since the money goes to help the rescue and animals! I went during a weekday so it wasn’t packed at all. I was only planning on staying for an hour or two and ended up staying until close. I was able to catch the dolphin show at 3pm, which was magnificent!! The water is beautiful from there. They have swings where you can relax and watch the water or the USS Lexington, which is right next door! The aquarium itself has so many cool fish and staff who truly love their job! They are attentive and informative! I loved my visit here and would definitely recommend it to anyone thinking of visiting!

Beautiful way to spend a very hot day. I'm a total aquarium nerd, and this was a treat! Lots of good info on the various species. Animals are healthy and happy. The dolphin show was so cute, you can tell they are having a blast!

Absolutely loved the dolphins show! Also, the otters are so fun to watch. Very interesting and informative. My grandchildren enjoyed everything. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was the price. I understand the animals have needs and I love that they rehabilitate a lot of them. But, it was $300 for 3 adults and 2 children. We stayed 2 hours but we missed an entire side, so I recommend getting there no later than 2.

My experience at the Texas State Aquarium with my family was nothing short of amazing! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with friendly staff, breathtaking exhibits, and an atmosphere full of excitement and wonder. The interactive displays kept our kids engaged the entire time, and the variety of marine life — from dolphins and sea turtles to sharks and stingrays — was incredible to see up close. The entire facility was clean, well-organized, and perfect for a full day of fun and learning. It was a memorable family outing that we’ll be talking about for a long time. Highly recommend it for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of the ocean without leaving Texas!

The aquarium has beautiful tanks filled with happy critters. The birds are beautiful and the layout of well thought out. The staff genuinely seem to love what they do. Like most large aquariums it’s not an inexpensive day, but certainly worth the time and effort to see.

We had an absolutely amazing time at the aquarium, which proved to be a fantastic way to spend our day. The aquarium provided a vast amount of information on various species and offered numerous attractions. The dolphin show was truly spectacular, and the facility offered a range of food and drink options, as well as clean, well-designed bathrooms, making it perfect for families.

🌟🌟🌟🌟 Four Stars – A Great Family Adventure with Room to Grow! We had a fantastic time at the Texas State Aquarium! The exhibits were engaging, especially the dolphin show and the Caribbean Journey section – the sharks, rays, and sea turtles were crowd favorites. The aquarium does a great job of combining education with entertainment, making it a hit for both kids and adults. The facility was clean and well-maintained, and the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. My kids especially enjoyed the interactive touch pools and the splash pad area – great ways to cool off and burn some energy. The reason for four stars instead of five? Ticket prices are quite steep, especially for a relatively small aquarium when compared to similar facilities across the U.S. and internationally. For larger families, the cost adds up quickly. A few areas also felt a bit dated, and while the food options were okay, more variety would be a welcome improvement. Still, this is a gem in Corpus Christi and absolutely worth a visit if you’re in the area. With a few updates and more accessible pricing, this could easily be a five-star destination. We’ll definitely be back!

Visiting the USS Lexington in Corpus Christi was an unforgettable experience. The ship is massive and full of history, with well-preserved exhibits and interactive sections. One of the highlights was meeting Richard in the engine room he took the time to explain how the carrier operated and shared fascinating personal anecdotes. Talking with him truly brought the ship to life and made the visit even more special. If you're in the area, don’t miss this piece of naval history and the chance to meet passionate people like Richard.

Definitely a must to go see, but plan most of the day if you want to see it all, it's a big ship. They have bathrooms, cafeteria, a movie theater and a gift shop of course. Best if you don't go during the heat of the summer, not many cool spots. But if you don't mind sweating go ahead, they do have a little cooler spots here and there. Fun for the whole family and a big part of history.

My kids enjoyed the tour ages 16 and 11. The tour took about 2 hrs. It’s self guided. In a world where kids are glued to their phones and social media it captured their attention. I do not recommend this tour for toddlers, heels, dressy clothing or people with walking restrictions. Their is a lot of climbing (ladder style stairs). Dont forget to take your free picture, it cost $35 for the print out but the digital versions using the QR code are free. Parking was $5 directly across the street. It’s so much to do in the area so bring beach stuff, strollers etc to enjoy the day in the surrounding area.

Came here spur of the moment. And really enjoyed it. This one lasted us half a day and we didn't finish looking at everything. There is so much to do and see. The crew is friendly the place is neat. There are some areas where you can spot hints of the past. The renovated and up kept areas of the ship suddenly contrasted by the subtle reminders that yes, this ship did see war, fought in battles, and has aged. Love it. Highly recommend this spot for a visit if your a military buff.

Very interesting self-guided tour. Can catch a free cart ride up the gangway. The steps are steep and narrow to the different levels so wear good shoes if going.

Went here a few weeks ago. Kid friendly. This place was absolutely amazing. They have 5 different tours to choose from and they explain everything about the ship, to the crew, the historical aspects, military honor, they even have a section on here about Pearl Harbor. Be prepared to learn about the history. If you want to get your steps in for the day, this is the place. Spent 5 hours here and walked over 10K steps. Highly recommend this for a day trip.

Great experience! There is a lot to learn not only about this ship, but a few others as well as about the crews that lived aboard. Note that while walking through the below decks, there are a few rooms that are very cold, which I would think would be a good break in between on the hotter days. It does take a good amount of time to walk and to listen/read everything.

Very deep in historical information. The battle here is what lord to "Cinco de Mayo". Great experience! End of match every year. You should go. Take chairs and like sack lunch to munch and enjoy on the grounds. Free parking.

Was great seeing the history of the fort and what happened there. The staff we met were very nice and fun to talk to. It was also wheelchair accessible.

A lovely stop between Austin and Port Aransas, this historic site is a great teaching moment for those who just finished 7th grade Texas History or anyone interested in our history. Check it out!

Although we did not buy a ticket to go inside, this peaked our interest on the way to Port A on Hwy 183. Good historic information around the property and very close to other sites as well. Cute town!

Nice, interesting to find spanish architecture so far in Texas, this site is, in terms of battle, more important that Fort Alamo... sad story behind it... lost of ghosts around i presume...

Such a great stop—every bit a shrine like the Alamo, but far more relaxed. The lady working at the gift shop was a riot lol. I still think that the garrison should be renamed Fort Defiance in memory of Colonel Fannin and his Texian men who were executed there by General Santa Anna after they surrendered to him east of there in 1836. I trust the museum video over ChatGPT: Fannin asked to have his personal effects sent home to his wife and children, to be given a Christian burial, and NOT to be shot in the face. Santa Anna promptly had him shot IN the face and burned after his men stole his things.

My husband & I loved walking through the museum areas & the Chapel was one of the prettiest we have ever seen. 2 bus loads of teenagers showed up while we were on the grounds and it was impressive how the historical tour guides handled them. The sweet lady behind the counter that greeted us made us feel very welcome. We are so happy that we visited. Great video to start out the tour too.

Took military graduate son there for celebratory outing. Beautiful historical park with well marked points of interest displays. Clean and well kept historical structures to walk among. Very educational. Paved Nature paths good for both the nimble and wheelchairs or walkers. Tickets to visit were not necessary.

This National Historic Park consists of four different missions, each with their own unique story. They are a little spread out so you can easily hit them all by driving. These sites are really interesting and well preserved. What's even cooler is that all of the missions are active faith communities. Truly a spot you should see in San Antonio aside from the Alamo.

What an amazing day visiting the missions. Highly recommend starting at Mission San Jose. The movie and museum in the visitors center provide a great introduction—great to know the history and background. Take time to respectfully visit the inside of the churches as well.

A beautiful time capsule of history. A bargain, 5 sites at $0, of course you can donate to the Churches. But who can beat that? Sure the Alamo is free too, but it's crowded and just one site.

Stopped at Mission San Juan and talked with the Park Ranger, William, for a long time. He was very knowledgeable of the missions' history and the struggles of the local tribes. Then, we headed over to Mission San Jose. Couldn't go inside sanctuary due to private event. Passport stamps are at the Vistor Center with a small museum. Didn't have much time as we arrived close to closing. Great visit of a National Historic site.

Wonderful historic UNESCO heritage site. There's a church onsite that still has Mass. Definitely a must visit while in San Antonio

If you lime history this is a really interesting place to visit! Bring water and have a nice walk around the site!

Mission San José: A Must-Visit in San Antonio Known as the "Queen of the Missions," Mission San José is stunning with its Baroque-style church, iconic Rose Window, and expansive grounds. The ranger-led tours bring history to life, and the serene atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxed visit. Whether you're exploring the granary, grist mill, or simply admiring the craftsmanship, it’s a beautiful, enriching glimpse into 18th-century mission life. Don’t miss it!

This is a really cool place. One of the most prestine Missions we have. And if you would like to join them for Church you can do that as well.

Wonderful preservation. You can really feel what it would have felt like to live there. One area with displays and information was air-conditioned, which felt fabulous. The mission is quite large and it got very hot walking the grounds in the brutal Texas sun. The gift shop was closed and there were no hours for it displayed, so that was a disappointment.

Can't believe it took me so many years to visit the national historic UNESCO site. Took advantage of the free park ranger led tour. Check www for times. Tour is well worth it for the background info. Definitely a must see in San Antonio

The Mission is so interesting. There is a history movie to watch first. It wasn't all fun for the native people. The mission is huge and the day was hot. The church was beautiful on the inside. It was Day of The Dead week and there were altars for the deceased love ones near the church. I would have liked Day of The Dead explanations.

My friends took me to this Mission, there 4 others, this ine was constructed in the 1750s abandoned has 350 inhabitants living within the walls. It was pretty impressive. Just church still is active and has daily masses.

The history, the peacefulness. Completely free. So greatful the our tourguide showed us such an amazing place.

Beautiful little walk with a lot of history and restaurants

Great food! Amazing music, fun with the family

It's beautiful at night with the lights and restaurant atmosphere BUT the homelessness and barrage of beggars is just making it the worst place to visit for tourism, it doesn't matter the time of year, day of the week or hour of the day, it is beggar city, if you like to people watch you can see several intoxicated drunken arrests bring made. I wouldn't go back and see it again, a large group of my family went last week an had the same experience as we did and we went a few years ago. If you go, go at night during the lights, daytime it's not esthetically appealing at all.

Love it 🤘🏻

Beautiful historical site, with functioning church services on weekends. A must see those interested in their heritage, the atmosphere is serene and spiritual. Truly a historical gem, there is additonal buildings to the rear that are also opened and give information about San Antonio Missions.

The fanciest of the Mission buildings remaining, if you only go to one, I would recommend this one. The architecture is stunning and there is lots of exhibits that explain the history and life of the Mission population.

Our recent visit to Mission Concepción in San Antonio was a very peaceful and engaging experience. As one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial missions, its architectural integrity is truly stunning—a highlight being the dome, which remains one of the few original mission domes still intact today. Despite some ongoing restoration efforts visible during our tour, the atmosphere remained remarkably serene and enjoyable. The works were subtle enough not to detract from the spiritual and historical weight of the place. It was near-awe-inspiring to walk through the grounds and reflect on the centuries of history contained within those ancient walls. Mission Concepción offers a unique and tangible connection to the past, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring San Antonio’s rich heritage.

Ever a tangible reminder of the power of human grit, conquest and faith. History you can touch, smell, and peel. Clean, open restrooms and water fountains despite the government shutdown. Thanks National Park Service.

Mission Concepción is a serene and beautifully preserved piece of history. The oldest unrestored stone church in the U.S., its twin bell towers and faint frescoes tell stories of devotion and craftsmanship. The atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for reflection. Highlights for me included the intricate "Eye of God" fresco and exploring the Mission Reach trail afterward. With free admission, informative signage, and welcoming rangers, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting San Antonio. A true gem blending history, faith, and art.

Absolutely beautiful and breathtaking. Highly recommend visiting all the missions. Speechless..such a treasure worth preserving.

Besides the amazing history here, there is an excellent visitor's center run by the church. It has a video, a snack/lunch counter, displays, and someone who is very knowledgeable that can answer questions about history and recommendations of local places to visit.

Palmetto State Park is absolutely beautiful. We stayed for two nights. The campsites are well kept and the trails are easy. The lake was fun to swim in. The only issue was that the restrooms were being renovated and pop-up restrooms provided had no way of controlling the temperature of the water. The water went from cool to extremely hot in about 5 seconds which made for very uncomfortable showers

The park is beautiful, but it’s missing some things, like trash bins near every picnic area. Also, the restrooms are under renovation, and the place feels hot. The plants need more care. Overall, it’s a quiet place, and the best parts are the scenic viewpoint and the prickly pear cactus. My comfort rating for this place is 3 out of 5

Palmetto State Park is a hidden gem in Texas! The scenery is beautiful with lush greenery, unique dwarf palmettos, and peaceful trails that make you feel like you’re in a tropical oasis. The San Marcos River running through the park adds to the charm, and you can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water. Campsites are well-kept, restrooms are clean, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, or a quiet weekend getaway in nature.

Restrooms are super clean and good. Arrangement and all are so perfect. Electric plug is near to your allocated area so boon for EV car users. Also they are providing firewood for fire by money. Gas station is hardly far 15-20 minutes. A perfect place for hangout, barbecue and all. I went with my family friends and we enjoyed alot.

Really nice park! Ladies in headquarters were very nice and helpful. There's some pretty affordable snacks and drinks in there plus souvenirs. My daughter and I love the 2 stuffed birds we got. They are very cute! We only stayed to fish for about 3 hours this time. We plan on fishing here more often.

This park surprised us- it is very shaded, a great middle of summer destination as you aren't burning up on the trails. Sites were fresh poured blacktop so it was very level. All trails are bike friendly, and our little ones (5 and 7) had no problem biking them.

The park is very nice. We really enjoy the trails. Very easy to fo on a bike or walking. Shower houses nice and clean.

Landa Park is one of those hidden gems that feels like a little escape without leaving town. Whether you’re coming with kids, friends, or just need a peaceful walk, this place has something for everyone. The natural scenery is beautiful year-round, with huge trees, a calm river, and shaded picnic areas. The paddle boats are a fun touch, and the miniature train ride brings out the kid in everyone. Clean restrooms, plenty of parking, and well-maintained trails make it super accessible. Perfect spot to relax, read, or just breathe. Highly recommended for locals and visitors alike!

Stopped in to eat my lunch at this park. I was surprised at how large it was. Numerous sidewalks and walking areas throughout the park. Lots of green space, picnic tables, and large trees. Their play areas for children volleyball court, and even some nice water features. Picnic tables for lunch as well as restrooms. Office facilities appear to be ADA approved. Barbecue pits and trash cans are conveniently located near the picnic tables. There's also a small gauge train track running throughout the park although I did not see a train. Perhaps it's only certain times of the day? Overall, a very nice surprising family friendly park that I will be sure to visit again for lunch next time.

My favorite park in New Braunfels has been a beloved destination since my childhood, and I'm grateful to now visit with my own children. I enjoy the park's natural surroundings, including its trees, wildlife, and water feature. The train ride and hiking trail are a sweet addition, and paddle boats are also available for recreation.

Most beautiful and peaceful park I’ve seen. I love it! All the magnificent birds, butterflies, deer and native brings me so much joy every time I’m there.

This park is pristine and lovely we love coming here to fish n consistently caught bass. The water is clear n the scenery is stunning, making it a great spot for photography and gatherings with family and friends

Wonderful park, very spacious,clean and rich with new Braunfels history ,it has a few pavilions that could be rented for your family gatherings, office parties or gender reveals,there is a small miniature train you can ride with the kids around the park, there are bar-b-que pits with bench tables for your weekend cookouts,it is pet friendly with benches and water fountains throughout the trails, so you can take a rest as you walk about the grounds,,there are swimming and fishing areas, plenty of parking space and a playground for the kids,sets of swings for you lovers,, oh yes and there are park rangers around throughout the day to enforce park rules and that's just to name a few things

I love riding the train. My mother took my sister and I when we were growing up. We recently went back to ride again. Make memories every day ✨️ God bless all of you.

Very BIG waterpark. Was about $100 per ticket at the door. I recommend getting tickets ONLINE because you will save a lot of money. Went on a Monday in June and to be expected there were very long lines for every ride. Be prepared to do lots of walking as well. The food was not good here. We had the burgers, pizza, and their fries and everything tasted frozen and was way overpriced.

We arrived 20 min before they opened on a Wednesday and bought tickets online. We got in no problem and no wait. We heard that the east side park had the big water slides my kids were excited about so we decided to hit those first. That was a big mistake. My boys waited in line for ONE of those big slides for TWO hours. Not exaggerating. My daughter and I were in line at the other slide for an hour and a half. So by 1:15, we had only been on ONE thing. We are from out of town and didn’t bring coolers so we then waited in line for over THIRTY minutes to spend $115 on coldish not great burgers. So by 2:15 after being there at 10:45, we only had been on one slide. My kids were pretty discouraged and didn’t feel like it was worth the $350 we spent on tickets for the 5 of us. We decided to skip the big slides as they just weren’t worth it and we did the tube chute ones. They were really fun and we enjoyed them. We also enjoyed the lazy river which also was like a wave river. They thought the wave pool wasn’t awesome as it was really small and not that exciting as we have big ones where we are from. I think overall it was a bit disappointing as we traveled a ways and spent a lot of money to wait in long lines. We will not be returning.

Fun family water park .. Really huge with multiple slides - great lazy river - ample of shaded seating ..! Plenty of attentive staff 💯 The only drawback is the food - very limited options - we ordered the pizza with breadsticks ; pizza was ok but breadsticks were hard and dry 🫤 Chicken sandwich with waffle fries was so hard - like stone really so inedible 👎🏻Overall great all day fun spot - just make sure to bring your own food here ..! Nice shuttle transport from one park to the other 💯

Some of the rides are a bit unkept, but it’s totally worth it. It’s so much fun! And if you get a season pass with Fiesta Texas you get access to both.

highly recommended experience for this summer! The food is a bit pricey, but the good thing is that you’re allowed to bring your own, which is a big plus. Also, it’s much better to buy the tickets online — they’re more affordable and it saves time at the entrance. Overall, everything was great: the atmosphere, the attractions, and how well everything is organized. Definitely worth the visit!

We went first weekend of September. No wait time to enter and didn’t wait long at all for rides. I was fun and organized. I you need locker there were 3 different size locker. You can take your cooler and food. Also we were told that there was no shower but clearly there was one in the restrooms by lockers and we used it.

This review is about the wonderful staff of lifeguards and guest relations employee Ebony (unsure of spelling). The lifeguards were extremely friendly all around and always helpful. When I lost my glasses Ebony was a great help as well as reassuring to someone that had become blind again. She also helped another guest find their phone and helped when my fast lane pass ripped. The park as a whole is the best Waterpark I’ve been to yet. Prices are a little high but what can you expect.

Such a great experience at the Saturday rodeo!! We really enjoyed it! Fun and seemingly authentic Texas experience! We would definitely go again! One thing- would’ve been nice to have additional fans and speakers for the general admission stands. It was hot and hard to hear the announcer guy.

We came to Tejas Rodeo Company and Steakhouse just outside of San Antonio for the famous Kansas City steak and it truly lived up to the hype. Perfectly cooked, flavorful, and served in a cozy Texas-style setting. After dinner, we walked straight over to the rodeo arena for an authentic and high-energy show that felt like a true slice of local culture. The night didn’t end there a great gathering followed with live music, friendly people, and an unbeatable atmosphere under the stars. If you're visiting this is an experience you won’t forget. Pure Texas spirit from start to finish!

Amazing Saturday evening at the rodeo. Ate at the steakhouse first, didn't have a booking but managed to get a seat at the bar, if you want a table I'd recommend booking in advance. Get a seat at the Rodeo around 7pm as they fill up fast! The whole evening is brilliant would recommend to anyone.

5 stars for the rodeo and 0 stars for the steakhouse. We were at the rodeo for a birthday. We had reservations for 5:30 at the steakhouse before hand which should have given us plenty of time to get our seats before the rodeo started. The waiter was nice but was absent most of the time. We ordered around 5:45. It took over an hour to get our food. By the time we got our food we were completely out of drinks/water etc…. It was difficult to get any service. It was BAD. The waiter kept apologizing but nothing was done. It was so bad I would have expected a manager to come and at least addressed it or something. Nothing happened. Then while we were eating I asked to pay and that took 20 minutes. Thank god I asked early. We also had mandatory tips due to a party of 8. Due to the horrible service at the steakhouse we got into the rodeo right when it started and we got horrible seats. For a steakhouse we expected more. They had one ribeye option for $50+ which was thin and the only other options were medallions which were also pricey. If I’m paying for steakhouse prices I would like some more options like other cuts etc… but it just was lack luster. The food was not to Texas Roadhouse quality at 2x the price. The rodeo was amazing. Just get snacks and some drinks at concessions and skip the steakhouse. The steakhouse has the potential to ruin an otherwise awesome night.

I went to the rodeo with my brother. It was our first time and we had a blast! It was nonstop entertainment, the animals were beautiful and strong. Probably our favorite event was the mutton busting! It was clean, beautiful landscape and very family friendly. General admission was only $30 a person for a complete evening of fun from doors open at 5pm to closing at 12am with music and dancing! Definitely worth the price and they have a steakhouse on site for some good Texas cooking! I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is even remotely interested in rodeos. You won’t regret it!

Wow. First time rodeo experience and it was awesome. Tried the steakhouse and it was sooo good worth every penny from drinks to main dished delicious. Not sure about desserts I was to full. The rodeo we got the reserved seats. Easy check in. Not sure how it is on general admission. It was packed but very well organized. A lot of staff and security. Amazing experience

Awesome experience. I would definitely attend again! Was lots of fun before, during and after the Rodeo. Well worth the drive from Austin on a hot Saturday afternoon, would definitely recommend what seemed to be an authentic cowboy experience in Texas.

We recently visited San Marcos Premium Outlets, located roughly midway between San Antonio & Austin. It’s a massive outdoor shopping complex, so large that at sometimes, we even drove from one store to another ! Despite the 32°C heat 😰I really enjoyed the experience. The outlets feature a wide variety of premium brands and products, ranging from luxury fashion and shoes to home goods. The product quality is excellent, and prices are quite competitive😀 For tourists, tax refunds are available, however, each bill must include at least $12 in taxes paid, and you can only receive 50% of the total tax amount back. The food court is decent, though it doesn’t include all the popular fast-food chains. We had Chinese food, which was okay. Overall, it’s a must visit if you’re in or around Austin or San Antonio 👍

I recently visited San Marcos Premium Outlets and was blown away by the sheer variety of brands and products available. From luxury fashion to home goods, there's something for everyone. The prices are incredibly competitive, and the quality of the products is exceptional. The outlet itself is well-designed, making it easy to find what you're looking for." _Recommendation_ If you're looking for a great shopping experience with amazing deals on top brands, San Marcos Premium Outlets is the place to go! With its vast selection, reasonable prices, and high-quality products, you won't be disappointed.

Big and spacious. Alot of good stores and deals. The weather in October was very hot but walking underneath the shade was nice

Visited the San Marcos Premium Outlets yesterday for the second time, and it’s still a great spot for shopping. The outlet has a wide range of brands and is well-maintained, making it enjoyable to walk around. While the variety isn’t the best for every category, it’s an excellent place to find daily wear and sportswear at good prices. The layout is convenient, parking is easy, and the overall experience is pleasant. A solid shopping destination for casual and brand-name finds. 🛍️

Been coming here for 30 years. A load of cats are living in the parking lot. Saw 5 all at once. Many area smell of cat piss. Dirtier than I ever remember it. And outlet store prices are just retail now. No deals to be had. In many cases exact same items at a better price can be found on Amazon. Sorry I tell it as I see it.

Here is huge. You can spend all day. In columbia stores, you don't pay label price. There are many sales %40-%70.. final price is lower than label price

I been coming here since I was a kid. But please talk to your younger kids employees don’t take advantage of elderly senior citizens with the tip. I guess he didn’t know my mom was with me. And he keep repeating himself 3x for tipping and he want to tap tip until I caught that young kid. I tap the skip and he gave me the look like he was upset he didn’t get away scamming an elderly senior citizen woman. What A coincidence he didn’t ask me to tip. I can imagine how many times he takes advantage of senior citizens. We need to protect our seniors citizens elderly’s. From young kids taking advantage I guess they weren’t brought up right with respect. Do better please next time.😔

Went on a tour here on a whim one weekend. Great little tour, beautiful well maintained cave. Some somewhat slippery stairs on the way down into the cave as well as some slippery areas inside so something to be aware of for older adults. They do concerts and weddings down in the caves as well which would make for a beautiful setting. Small tour group, only around 10 of us on the tour.

What a wonderful cave tour experience! Steve was such a fun and knowledgeable tour guide. He told many stories of happenings in the cave as well as a set of cave jokes throughout the tour. There were so many different rock formations including drapery, cave bacon, a christmas tree, and a dog! There was also a set of pools and a flowing river! The pictures do not do it justice! We also had the pleasure of seeing a little bat sleeping. There were only 3 of us on my tour today, but I recommend booking ahead of time on their website to make sure you get a ticket since it is a ways out of town and it would be sad not to be able to go on the tour! Highly recommend for anyone living in or visiting the San Antonio area!

One of the best places I have been. The tour is fast paced. You want to start taking pictures as soon as you enter the cave. The pictures are better down in the cave. So don't waste time going down stairs taking pictures. It's only an hour long. Bet so worth it.

We have been to this cave a couple of times now. We enjoyed the tour we took in April, our tour guide was great, very informative and made the tour fun. Not only is the cave absolutely beautiful, We decided to elope and get married at Cave without a Name in September. The event coordinator Julia was amazing! She was so nice and helpful leading up to the big day, and the day of… I just cannot thank her enough. This place will always be a special place for us, but also because of the people who helped make it such a special day for us as well. We plan on going back to see one of the concerts in the cave. Photo credit: Rukavina Photography

Julia provided us with an excellent tour. We enjoyed learning about the cave’s history. She found a bat sleeping in the cave and pointed in out to the group which was an added bonus. Gift shop is cute and has some unique items. Definitely worth the drive from San Antonio or Austin. There are approximately 90 steps you must descend and of course go back up at the end. Tall people watch your head!

This was one of the more beautiful caves I have ever seen in my life. The formations were amazing and spectacular! Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and answered any questions we had as well as providing a lot of history and geological information along our route.

Cave Without a Name is a wonderful place to explore nature, rock formations, and underground life. Our trip was smooth, enjoyable, and very informative. Our tour guide had a great sense of humor while sharing all the fascinating details about the cave. Highly recommend this place to everyone!

A truly beautiful place with incredible nature. Unfortunately, we visited right after a period of flooding and heavy rain. The water was not its usual blue color but rather green, and swimming was not allowed at the time. Hopefully, next time we will get to experience its full beauty. That said, we still enjoyed the peacefulness and solitude of nature, especially since there were very few people around even though it was the weekend

Blue Hole is absolutely beautiful! Nature is so serene. The water feels amazing, especially on a hot summer day. The water is so clean and refreshing. The way the trees line the water allows for a lot of shade while in water. Such a nice place to visit!

An absolute must do! I walked from town taking the nature trail which added some beautiful views of the creek lined with cypress trees! When getting to the park, Heidi was so incredibly welcoming, informative and was a great introduction to the magic that the blue hole provides! There are multiple trails to enjoy but be sure to stop by the blue hole and take a swim if in season!

Best swimming hole I’ve ever been to. Had such a good time even though I sadly messed up and only got the half day pass rather than buying both for the full day, still such a good time. The water is the perfect temperature, cold at first but stays cold even when you get used to it. Everyone was nice and there was so much room to hang. Deff won’t forget the Canopy next time we come.

The water is crystal clear, refreshing, and perfect for swimming. The surrounding nature is well maintained, with plenty of shaded areas to relax. Everything is very well organized – from booking to entry, it all went smoothly. I especially loved the calm, peaceful atmosphere, far away from any hustle and bustle. A must-visit if you’re in the area!

Absolutely gorgeous place!! The water is beautiful and cold (really cold since it’s spring fed). The little yard they have is well kept and has umbrellas for some shade in the warm months. No alcohol or smoking allowed, no pets either. There is some shallower parts, but most of it is pretty deep. They have life jackets available, free of charge. They also have a some other items available for sale like towels, floaties, water proof phone cases, shirts and hats, a vending machine with drinks. Also, you have to have a reservation before you get in!! You pay online! There are some rope swings as well and ladders at multiple points to assist you getting out. I rank this place 10/10! Will definitely visit again and again!

This place is incredible. Wimberley TX is magical. Loved the experience. Hoping to come back next year again. Can’t wait.

⚠️ Research ahead of time if they are allowing swimming. This would be a phenomenal place if the water was higher. The water level has been low due to a 3 year long drought according to one of the park rangers. Unfortunately that means no swimming and a dry creek bed. The park had nice hiking trails and really interesting master gardeners' demo gardens to check out. The park rangers were kind and informative. I would have given a 5-star rating if we could have experienced swimming there, but this is absolutely no fault to the park itself. Cypress Falls Swimming Hole is nearby if you need to take a dip but it is only open Thursday-Sunday Visited on May 12, 2025 Reviewed on May 13, 2025

We were so sad that the water levels were such that no swimming was allowed, but still a beautiful place to visit. I definitely recommend hydrating well beforehand and taking some water with you as it doesn't take long on the trails to get overheated. If you're going to visit, know that no family pets are allowed on the trails or at the well. Even though you can't swim there's still some fun stuff for the family to do. They have a natural human sun dial, a meditation walk, an area for kids to build and use their imagination with various pipes etc, and then plenty of beautiful sites to see and take photos. I hope to visit again when water levels are restored one day and take the family swimming at Jacob's Well!

The creek around the well is dry at this point. Swimming is strictly prohibited. In addition to signs, the workers approached us with a verbal warning on the way to the well and then literally ran in fear that we would be swimming. I say the pictures on the web are highly exaggerated. The well itself is no more than 6 feet wide and maybe 8 feet long at the most. The sides are clearly overgrown with eel. Idk. It’s interesting if you are in the area but it’s not worth a special trip to it. Also, it is apparently in a chain of underwater caverns that are over a mile long.

Beautiful park. Do plan ahead and buy tickets to swim if you want to swim. Information is on the brochure posted. The garden and labyrinth were highlights also. Everyone was very friendly and helpful.

Less than 10-minute walk from parking lot … No swimming/wading in August 2025… shallow water tiday - blazing Texas sun 🥵 We’ll be back in spring … maybe better then 😊😄 but I enjoy hearing crickets and birds! 🦅

Very nice hiking trails and view of narrow hole in the ground full of water...interesting nature trails with good birdwatching. Lots of Painted Bunting, Carolina Chickadees, Black Crested Titmice, and even Woodhouse's Scrub Jay.

Nice little park. Closed for swimming right now, but I couldn't picture it being open for swimming! Very small area it seemed like, I feel like itd be difficult to swim around here with more thay 20 people. Sad to see how low our aquifers are! It said this spring used to shoot water up 6 ft high! That would've been incredible to see, but it's since gotten lower and lower due to the population increase in the area.

Literally a stone's throw from Blanco TX, this park offers areas for camping, hiking and enjoying the water, whether it be fishing, tubing, swimming or just sitting and reflecting--this place brought peace to this Momma's heart. Ample amount of shaded picnic tables, camp sites and nature trails Can't wait to go back when the fall leaves start their yearly transition to the hues of fall!

Sites in the middle of beautiful tall shade trees. Next to a cow pasture, nice to hearthe low mooing sounds while enjoying the shade as the soft breeze moves through the campsites. The beautiful Blanco River skirts the park. Swimming, paddle boarding and sunbathing encouraged.

A FETCHING FAMILY-FREINDLY STATE PARK RIGHT IN THE TOWN OF BLANCO. We enjoyed a two night's stay in the middle of the week. There were a number of available RV sites, although I encourage pre-booking your stay. Two nights with our annual State Park pass only cost us $30.00 that included the daily use fees and camping fees. We liked our campsite number 20. It has a 30 amp electric connection and water connection. A number of other RV sites have 50/30 amp service with water and sewer connections. The river was reasonably clean and fairly good flow. We enjoyed a swim. We also fished and hiked the park trails. They have screened shelters that look nice too. The town of Blanco offers quite the range of restaurants and bars.

We choose a last minute weekend camping trip as it seemed somebody canceled last minute. It was beautiful and fun. The water was perfect for swimming, kyacking, fishing. Looking forward to more trips there. It was the most heavily patrolled state park I've ever been to. It was also the one with the least amount of dogs and most kids. Mostly RV's. It was so refreshing to see camping like I grew up with, kids out riding bikes, swimming, enjoying nature and unplugging. You are directly off a main road and town. Heads up there is no firewood or live bait. You can get firewood at the tractor supply store not too far into town, but they said the closest live bait was at an academy 30 minutes away 🙂.

This park is magical! Our family of 5 and friends had a blast. Park staff were kind, friendly and made sure we knew about events like Fishing 101 where our kids all got to learn about handling fish, bait and how to cast. The swimming was fun and the shade of the oak trees over our campsite was stellar.

Nice nature trails to view flora & fauna. Swimming opportunities minimal and crowded. Whole park is very narrow with limited width on each side of river, with close housing and roads, so feel more like in a very public city park.

Cute little State Park, and yes it is little! Right in the center of Blanco, TX and close to everything. Good WiFi as well (can surf the web & stream SD programs).

Talked my husband into taking me to a vineyard while spending the weekend in Fredericksburg. My dad had told us that he heard good things about Becker Vineyards so that is where we went on Saturday afternoon around 3:30. The drive up to the parking lot from the highway is lovely as are the buildings on the property. We were able to purchase a tasting at the front desk upon arrival and given tickets so that we could get our drinks at the indoor or outdoor bar. The service at both bars was friendly and helpful. There were also a good number of people there that afternoon but it didn't feel crowded and it didn't affect our experience. They had lots of products to browse as well as a small food menu if you were feeling snacky. Overall it was a really nice experience, but, and I want to say this in the nicest way possible, the wine is still Texas wine.

The place is beautiful, and everyone who attended us was genuinely friendly and welcoming. The atmosphere is relaxed and the view is lovely. The cheese board is good, but I’d add a bit more charcuterie. What really surprised me was how expensive the wines are compared to what they actually deliver. We would’ve probably bought more bottles, but the prices felt excessive. Another thing worth mentioning: you’re constantly prompted to tip, even though you do most things yourself: you grab your own wine for each new tasting, pick up your own charcuterie board, etc. Overall, a pleasant experience, but definitely room for improvement in value and service dynamics.

This is a very beautiful place to hang out. The atmosphere is serene. The grounds are beautiful and the vineyard gives you the feeling that you're in a true winery. There is no real signage that indicates where you should go to check in and the staff at the front desk were not friendly nor clear in their instructions. There was no one advising patrons as to where they should go when they go in. They supposedly serve cheese boards but we never found anyone to order them from. I'd go back again for the gardens though.

We arrived at 5:15 PM excited to visit Becker Vineyards, my husband had never been, and I wanted to share what I thought would be a beautiful Texas wine experience. We’re members at Grape Creek, so we’re very familiar with great service and friendly, educational staff. Unfortunately, our visit started off on the wrong foot. Paula immediately checked her watch when we walked up, which already felt unwelcoming. I told her I wanted to try a sweet wine, and from the start, her attitude was dismissive and curt. When I asked about the second pour, “What does this one taste like?” she simply pointed at the menu and said, “You can read it.” Every other vineyard we’ve been to takes pride in educating guests about their wines, the grapes, and the story behind each bottle. Paula made us feel like we were inconveniencing her. I should have walked out, but I wanted my husband to at least enjoy the scenery. Unfortunately, the poor service overshadowed everything. Paula needs some serious hospitality training, guests should leave feeling welcomed, not brushed off. Disappointing experience all around.

Loved, loved, loved this place!! Incredibly peaceful and gorgeous grounds, great live music to fit the vibe, the staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and the kiddos even had a blast! Our rose was also delicious and perfect for the warm day we visited on! It’s also super nice to find a place that caters to the adult senses but also welcomes your kiddos energy, joy, and laughter with open arms both by the staff and other visitors. Super family and kid friendly! This place has a special place in my heart. And Don was the best!

Reserved the Tasted Seating for four in the afternoon and what a great experience! Samantha was amazing! The wine was good and paired well with the plated charcuterie. We enjoyed everything and would definitely stop back by when in the area.

I cannot say enough great things about Paula. She was so helpful during our wine tasting - I loved everything she recommended. I can tell Paula and the rest of the staff care about each individual guest. As well, the live music and atmosphere was wonderful. I recommend Becker to anyone visiting Fredericksburg!!

PERFECT WINERY. This was our first time at Grape Creek and decided to do the tour. I’m SO GLAD we did. My husband and I truly enjoyed ourselves the whole time. Cam, Steven and Dan were so amazing!! For how many tastings you get and all the behind the scenes access, this tour is definitely worth it. Steven and Dan were so knowledgeable, patient and kind. I lean more towards the semi sweet and sweet wines, whereas my husband likes a little of this and that. Dan helped me fine my favorite wine of all time and even went as far as creating a blend of two wines that pair perfectly with steak. We ended up buying both wines! You won’t be disappointed but a visit but I urge you to do the tour!! Totally worth it!

David was absolutely wonderful! The quality of the wines Grape Creek has - and everyone was rather knowledgeable of their processes and history. We were NOT buying another membership but we did. Only suggestion is that you try the wine before you try the sparkling wines. Jason sounds like a really good, competent, and award-winning vinologist. We will probably always stop at Grape Creek and their ?sister wineries whenever we come to Fredericksburg. A MUST DO. I think if you join one and you’re a member of most of them!

We spent a beautiful afternoon at Grape Creek Vineyards, and honestly, Larissa made it unforgettable! From the moment we sat down, she was full of energy, smiles, and genuine kindness. She didn’t just serve us — she made sure every detail was perfect: refilling glasses right on time, recommending her favorite wines (which were spot on!), and checking on us just enough to make us feel pampered but never rushed. The best part? She became our unofficial photographer and took the most spectacular pictures — seriously, they look like something out of a magazine! 📸🍇 Larissa went above and beyond, and that kind of service deserves to be celebrated. We left happy, relaxed, and already planning our next visit back to Grape Creek. Thank you, Larissa, for your wonderful energy, kindness, and for making our wine day one to remember! Cheers to you! 🥂✨

This is a beautiful vineyard. The building itself is lovely and the surroundings add to it! I highly recommend the wine tasting. Get Eve if they let you choose who does your wine tasting. She was very knowledgeable and super friendly! She clearly knows her stuff!

We had the absolute pleasure of being guided by Wine Steward David Dennis during Grape Creek’s Festa della Vendemmia, and the experience was outstanding from start to finish. David’s professionalism, deep expertise, and remarkable attention to detail elevated our entire visit. His thoughtful recommendations and passion for wine not only enhanced our tasting, but also inspired us to join the JenBlossom Club with complete confidence. David embodies true hospitality and represents Grape Creek at the highest standard—knowledgeable, personable, and genuinely invested in creating a memorable experience. Bravo Zulu, David! We look forward to many more visits and raising a glass in your honor. -Freddy & Lissie P.

We had an amazing tasting experience at Grape Creek Vineyards! Our taste ambassador, Larissa Rogers, made the visit exceptional. She was knowledgeable, warm, and clearly passionate about the wines, which made the whole experience both fun and informative. She took the time to tailor the tasting to our preferences and shared great vibes and connection behind each pour. The wines were delicious, the setting was beautiful, and Larissa’s hospitality really stood out. Highly recommend asking for her if you visit!

We love grape creek. The Tuscan venue is so inviting. The wines are exceptional good. Melanie our wine expert was fabulous. We highly recommend the beautiful winery. We have been members for over 5 yrs.

This is a new FAVORTIE stop of mine when wine-touring the area! It's got a beautiful butterfly and wildflower garden, an outdoor botanic shop, and an indoor shop selling adorable hand-crafted items, as well as a variety of jams, canned goods, and yummy local snacks. And, of course, they offer a unique selection of wines from their vineyard. You're allowed to sip the wine as you browse the shops and gardens. There are also some cute photo walls for taking pictures. 📷 🍷 🌼 🦋

Pictures taken on 10/25. Free to enter. We were told it’s $5 during full bloom season to walk through the trail. There were so many beautiful flowers, butterflies, and things to see. Gift shop was beautiful and there was a wide variety of plants to purchase along with garden decor. Wine tasted great too.

Wildseed is a favorite place of mine. Whenever we travel to Fredericksburg, we go to Wildseed. Each season is unique to browse the plants and flowers and garden decor. Inside are beautiful gifts and decorations and jams, jellies, wine, and other goodies. It is a privilege to visit this beautiful place over and over. I live near Dallas and each year I plant wildflower seeds from Wildseed and each year, I get my own beautiful wildflower display. Done this for many years.

Many beautiful flowers. Cosmos were in full bloom. Would be nice to see in the spring instead of the heat of summer. Butterflies were flying all over.

I was so impressed by Wildseed Farms in Fredericksburg! It’s the largest working wildflower farm in the state—and it shows. The entire space is beautiful, well-kept, and easy to walk through, with plenty of comfortable seating to relax and take it all in. I appreciated the clean and convenient restrooms, lots of free parking, and the variety of experiences—from wine tasting and a snack bar to a full restaurant, unique shopping, and friendly customer service throughout. It’s definitely a family-friendly destination and such a special addition to the Fredericksburg area. Highly recommend visiting!

Wildseed Farms in Fredericksburg, Texas, is a stunning destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful Hill Country escape. Spanning over 200 acres, it’s the largest working wildflower farm in the U.S., and the vibrant fields of poppies, bluebonnets, and cosmos are simply breathtaking in bloom. The walking trails and scenic gardens invite you to slow down and enjoy the beauty of Texas flora. Beyond the fields, there’s a fantastic gift shop stocked with seeds, garden décor, and local goods, plus a charming wine tasting room offering Texas wines. Families and couples alike will enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, photo opportunities, and free admission. The on-site café and seasonal events make it a full-day experience. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing outing, Wildseed Farms is a must-visit spot in Fredericksburg that captures the heart of the Hill Country in full color and bloom.

(From October 2025) Go in the fall. The colors are unbelievable and there are butterflies galore. Absolutely beautiful scenes along the walking trail.

Interesting history on the Texas White House and LBJ's childhood home. It's in two different spots, downtown Johnson city, and outside of town about 14 miles at the ranch(which is at the state park). Both areas were interesting and informative. We took a tour of the childhood home and then did the auto tour of the ranch. The NPS website/app has an audio tour for the ranch drive that was really informative. Support your National Parks!

This was a very informative experience. The rangers and other staff were very helpful. I was not fully aware of how much LBJ had done for our "Great Society." There are 2 parks about 13 miles apart. This National Park and the LBJ State Park. Plan extra time to see both and drive through to see additional exhibits, etc.

What an educational tour of the visitors center and the home LBJ grew up in. The rangers were very informative and took their time explaining the history and answering questions. There are videos to watch if you have the time and a gift shop to explore.

We had a wonderful tour of the boyhood home of LBJ. Our tour guide was very informative and provided many interesting facts. LBJ used his roots and his observations to create projects that were beneficial to his constitutes.

Our family stayed in the Hill Country for Spring Break, and one of our day trips was to learn about LBJ, our 36th President of the United States, by going first to his boyhood home in Johnson City and then going to the LBJ Ranch. It's helpful to start one's trip first at the LBJ National Historical Park Visitor Center in Johnson City, view its exhibits and introductory movie upon request that summarize the President's humble beginnings and rise into politics, first as US Representative and then Senator, Senate Majority Leader, Vice President, and President of the United States. The exhibits and movie tell about his "Great Society" domestic accomplishments on civil rights, health care, and welfare as well as his presidency tainted by race riots and poor public opinion on escalating American involvement in the Vietnam War. We timed our morning visit with the ranger talk at the boyhood home. Afterwards, go to the LBJ Ranch in Stonewall by first going to the LBJ State Park and Historic Site Visitor Center to pick up a free driving permit and self-guided tour map of the ranch run by the National Park Service. Driving around the ranch, one gets to see LBJ's famous Hereford cattle roaming the grounds and baby calf in the show barn. Final stop is the Airport Hanger Visitor Center, where one gets to view the Lockheed Jetstar Air Force One-Half, LBJ's car collection, and grounds of the Texas White House. We timed our afternoon visit with the ranger talk at the Texas White House. Even though LBJ's boyhood home and Texas White House are closed under renovation, we had a great time learning from the ranger talks and were able to walk around surrounding grounds. Virtual tours are also available online and in the Johnson City Visitor Center.

Love walking around the park and seeing the visitors center. Easy to get this place confused with the other park. Went here during the day and then stayed to enjoy the Christmas lights around the town. Johnson City puts on a go show. Thank you so much.

Great historical spot. The Ranch mostly closed but did get to visit Air Force 1/2, school & farm where he was born. His boyhood home in Johnson City was wonderful. Tour of home outstanding!

Very cute state park! I only did 2 hikes and they were easy and well paved. Seeing the limestone at the falls and knowing it's 300 million year old is incredible. The designated swim area is gorgeous with lots of pretty shaded spots for when the Texas sun is killing you. The walk to get there has quite a few steps but pretty easy for anyone in decent shape.

Had a blast there last weekend! My partner and I went camping there and during our stay, we visited many of the trails, saw some amazing views and even got to walk on the falls due to there not being a lot of rain lately. Which ultimately led to a burn ban being placed a couple of days prior to our arrival, so we couldn’t make a fire. But that was okay because we still had a fantastic time looking at the stars from our camp site. There’s quite a few trails in the park of all different lengths. There’s a swimming area that you can cool off in, after your hike too, which was refreshing. The bathrooms were really clean and maintained. The park staff were really welcoming and helpful explaining some things throughout the park. Would definitely recommend checking this state park out. We will be back

Such a fun and fairly easy hike! Some areas can be slippery, the water levels were low when we went but it was gorgeous and worth the hike! Bring some flashlights if you go near sundown as getting back to the trail head is difficult at night.

Camped here for 2 nights, explored the falls and swimming area, and had a great time. Facilities are well maintained and clean. Some campsites have a sunshade over the picnic table already, but not all do so be aware when booking your site (always check the pictures). Beautiful weather in November 🏕️

I went to spend a few days recharging in nature. This park checked all the boxes during my stay. Beautiful scenery with decently difficult hikes for someone who needs more exercise. Big clean sites with restrooms that were also clean and accessible. I felt safe. Saw rangers patrolling regularly. It was comfortable and peaceful and I hope to go again and also to bring friends.

Pedernales Falls is an absolute must-see destination if you are visiting the greater Austin area. This park delivers stunning, unique views and offers a fantastic full-day experience for families and kids. The primary attraction is the river's astonishing view of tiered limestone falls and sculpted rocks. It's truly a geological marvel that provides unforgettable photo opportunities. The park offers a designated swimming area (separate from the falls/flow area) and ample picnic spots, making it perfect for spending the entire day outdoors. You can also enjoy fishing in designated areas along the river. Tip: Be aware that the water level changes dramatically and quickly. Always check the park signs and conditions before venturing out to the falls area, as the area can be closed during flash flooding conditions.

Entrance fee to the park is $6. It's a very well maintained place, they even have bags for picking up after your dogs along the trail. I did the Wolf Mountain Trail which was about 5.6 miles, and did it in 1.5 hours, 400 feet ascension. So most of the hikes here feel pretty modest in difficulty. The views are descent, although you need to hike at least 3 miles before you start seeing the nicer views. It can get really hot during the summer (today it was over 100 degrees) so make sure to bring enough water. If you're looking for something to do on a weekend, this is definitely a place worth checking out.

We visited Hamilton Pool Preserve on a rare spring morning, arriving right as the gates opened for our reserved time slot. The forecast had called for rain, and it did briefly sprinkle just before our hike began, making the trail a bit slick. Thankfully, walking sticks were available at the entrance, which helped on the steeper, uneven sections of the trail. The hike down to the grotto is short but moderately challenging, with stone steps and natural obstacles. Once at the pool, we were struck by the unique beauty of the setting, a collapsed grotto, sheer limestone walls, and lush greenery clinging to the cliffs. Unfortunately, due to ongoing drought conditions in Texas, the waterfall was only a light seep through the rocks. Most of the grotto was also off-limits due to falling rock hazards, which was a bit of a letdown since much of the promotional imagery and videos highlight access that is no longer available. That said, the preserve still holds incredible value. We continued our hike to the Pedernales River and were rewarded with wildflowers, lizards, and the quiet beauty of the Texas Hill Country. For birders and nature lovers, this place remains a gem, even in drought. Hamilton Pool Preserve is a place of natural and historical significance, and it's clear that the staff and stewards are working hard to protect it. While the waterfall itself may not be flowing like it once did, the hike and surrounding environment still offer a rewarding and worthwhile visit. Come prepared, manage expectations, and let nature reveal her quieter forms of magic. Four stars for the stunning setting and the well-maintained trails, minus one for the limited access to the grotto and the ongoing effects of drought on the experience. Still very much worth a visit, especially for those who appreciate the subtle beauty of the land.

Stopped by Hamilton Pool while visiting Dripping Springs and the scenery was absolutely stunning. The natural beauty of the area is unreal—peaceful, lush, and a perfect escape into nature. Was a bit disappointed to find the overhanging cliff trail closed due to safety concerns, but still had a great time exploring the area and soaking in the views. Definitely worth the visit if you’re in the area!

Hamilton Pool was a nice short hike totaling 30 minutes round trip. We visited a day after they opened the pool back up for swimming but it so happened to rain really hard the day before, causing them to close some paths and prohibit swimming that day. Unfortunately the water was a bit brown due to the rain runoff but it was still a beautiful piece of nature and we are glad we got to visit! Make sure to make a reservation before you go.

The greatest , most refreshing , beautiful , spacious swimming hole in hill county. It’s best to go during april - august for the clearest and cleanest water. You can also swim in the pedernales river. YOU NEED TO RESERVE BEFORE YOU GO

Not like the pictures that we experienced in September. Water is very dirty and felt waste of the money spent for reservation(12$) and they are charging 8$ per person at the entrance again. The trail back the falls is closed at this time. I hope they maintain the place much cleaner

Worst. Waste of time and money. Trail is good but no waterfall. Pool is small and too many bookings for a small size. Felt like little dirty pond. Too many restrictions due to danger of rocks falling from above.

Beginner friendly hiking trail that leads up to a beautiful clear blue pool. Depending on the weather and the season you go on, sometimes you will see the waterfall, and other times it will be nonexistent. Plan accordingly if you’re going to see the waterfall specifically. The hike is about 0.25 miles and isn’t very hard. Great place for people who like, or are interested in, a beginner friendly hiking trial or river trails. Water was cold on my last visit, so didn’t get to go swimming, but again, depending on the weather, it’s a great spot to cool off if going during summer time (sometimes they do close it off for swimming too, such as during Covid or when algae gets too much). If you do get in to go swimming, be careful since there’s no lifeguards on duty here. They also don’t allow pets (even on a leash), no drones, no feeding fish or wildlife, no glass containers, no stoves or starting a campfire, and no camping!🏕️ Overall, Hamilton Pool Preserve is a must visit for anyone in or around ATX, nature lovers, and beginner hiking enthusiasts looking to be rewarded with a beautiful view of the blue pool at the end of a trail. Highly recommended! 🛶🏊‍♀️🌲