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Happenings in The Highland Lakes
Three Texas Sized Reasons for Midweek Travel
May 22 2013 - 05:07:00 pm
Weekend trips are common because they are so easy. However, here are three great big reasons to make your next trip to the fun-filled Highland Lakes region during the middle of the week.
1. Less Crowds on One of the Few Lakes Still Allowing Small Watercraft
Many visitors to our little piece of Texas come because they love the lake recreation. The Texas Hill Country is home to numerous lakes, but unfortunately the prolonged drought conditions are making it necessary to close most of the lakes in the region to small watercraft. Only four open boat ramps within the Highland Lakes still exist: Johnson Park (Lake Marble Falls), Lakeside Park (Lake Marble Falls), Granite Beach Recreation Area (Lake LBJ) and Inks Lake State Park (Inks Lake) are the only boat ramps still open.
Summer is the peak season for Texas residents and visitors to enjoy boating recreation. With Memorial Day and 4th of July around the corner, coupled with fewer than normal bodies of water to enjoy boating recreation, these lakes are sure to be extra crowded on the weekends. If you want to enjoy boating and swimming without the crowds, midweek travel is highly recommended.
2. Better Rates on Lodging and Recreation
Supply and demand translates to higher rates on lodging and recreation on the weekends when demand is at its peak. By traveling midweek, you can enjoy significant savings with most area lodgers. Some Highland Lakes lodging facilities offer 10%-20% off midweek stays, or discounts like stay 2 nights and get the 3rd night for half off. Other area lodgers may have special packages that include recreational activities like tours, wine tasting or watercraft rentals.
Our “where to stay” pages have summaries of the various cabins, bed and breakfasts and hotels and contact information for the lodgers. Be sure to contact the particular lodging facility you are interested to find out what specific midweek packages or promotions they are offering. It never hurts to ask!
3. Enjoy the Peace and Quiet Afforded by Nature
The Highland Lakes are more than “just” bodies of water. The unpopulated area makes it possible to truly enjoy the natural wonders that surround the lakes. Our city dwelling neighbors from Austin, Dallas and San Antonio may especially appreciate reconnecting with nature. Visitors can enjoy wildlife, flora and fauna, beautiful natural rock formations like Enchanted Rock, Gorman Falls and Longhorn Caverns and more.
By visiting midweek, you’ll be more able to enjoy the unhurried peace and quiet of the natural surroundings that make this part of the Texas Hill Country so special!
4th of July Bonus!
This year, the 4th of July is on a Thursday. If you are planning on celebrating here at the Highland Lakes, make sure you make reservations soon, as these travel dates are already beginning to book up. Since the holiday does fall in the middle of the week, it would be a great time to make an extended vacation by tacking on extra days beforehand. Many lodgers will have better rates in the days leading up to the 4th of July, but expect peak season rates for the weekend. The planned fireworks and 4th of July celebrations will be spread out from the 4th of July and into the weekend, but there are always impromptu “shows” that are visible around the various lakes lighting up the night sky . Why not join in on the extended fun with an extended midweek vacation?
We hope to see ya’ll soon!
1. Less Crowds on One of the Few Lakes Still Allowing Small Watercraft
Many visitors to our little piece of Texas come because they love the lake recreation. The Texas Hill Country is home to numerous lakes, but unfortunately the prolonged drought conditions are making it necessary to close most of the lakes in the region to small watercraft. Only four open boat ramps within the Highland Lakes still exist: Johnson Park (Lake Marble Falls), Lakeside Park (Lake Marble Falls), Granite Beach Recreation Area (Lake LBJ) and Inks Lake State Park (Inks Lake) are the only boat ramps still open.
Summer is the peak season for Texas residents and visitors to enjoy boating recreation. With Memorial Day and 4th of July around the corner, coupled with fewer than normal bodies of water to enjoy boating recreation, these lakes are sure to be extra crowded on the weekends. If you want to enjoy boating and swimming without the crowds, midweek travel is highly recommended.
2. Better Rates on Lodging and Recreation
Supply and demand translates to higher rates on lodging and recreation on the weekends when demand is at its peak. By traveling midweek, you can enjoy significant savings with most area lodgers. Some Highland Lakes lodging facilities offer 10%-20% off midweek stays, or discounts like stay 2 nights and get the 3rd night for half off. Other area lodgers may have special packages that include recreational activities like tours, wine tasting or watercraft rentals.
Our “where to stay” pages have summaries of the various cabins, bed and breakfasts and hotels and contact information for the lodgers. Be sure to contact the particular lodging facility you are interested to find out what specific midweek packages or promotions they are offering. It never hurts to ask!
3. Enjoy the Peace and Quiet Afforded by Nature
The Highland Lakes are more than “just” bodies of water. The unpopulated area makes it possible to truly enjoy the natural wonders that surround the lakes. Our city dwelling neighbors from Austin, Dallas and San Antonio may especially appreciate reconnecting with nature. Visitors can enjoy wildlife, flora and fauna, beautiful natural rock formations like Enchanted Rock, Gorman Falls and Longhorn Caverns and more.
By visiting midweek, you’ll be more able to enjoy the unhurried peace and quiet of the natural surroundings that make this part of the Texas Hill Country so special!
4th of July Bonus!
This year, the 4th of July is on a Thursday. If you are planning on celebrating here at the Highland Lakes, make sure you make reservations soon, as these travel dates are already beginning to book up. Since the holiday does fall in the middle of the week, it would be a great time to make an extended vacation by tacking on extra days beforehand. Many lodgers will have better rates in the days leading up to the 4th of July, but expect peak season rates for the weekend. The planned fireworks and 4th of July celebrations will be spread out from the 4th of July and into the weekend, but there are always impromptu “shows” that are visible around the various lakes lighting up the night sky . Why not join in on the extended fun with an extended midweek vacation?
We hope to see ya’ll soon!
Lake LBJ to be Featured on “The Daytripper with Chet Garner”
May 14 2013 - 03:08:00 pm
Calling all travel show fans! Our very own Lake LBJ will be the featured little gem on “The Daytripper with Chet Garner,” airing the week of May 30th on local Texas PBS stations. Chet’s playful nature will surely entertain viewers and inspire upcoming visitors, and we thought we’d give a sneak preview of some of the fun places that will be featured on the upcoming Lake LBJ episode.
The Boating and Fishing Are Still Fine at Lake LBJ
Although Central Texas is in the middle of another drought, Lake LBJ is a welcome oasis from the summer heat and the dry conditions. Lake LBJ is one of the few lakes where small watercraft are still welcome, so thrill seekers can get their fix speeding across the lake on their Jet skis and speed boats.
Early risers can enjoy scenic hikes before the Texas heat is in full effect. There’s plenty of hiking trails in the area, but two of the most popular parks for superb hiking are Enchanted Rock State Park, featuring a 425 foot tall granite dome with spectacular views of the Texas Hill Country, and Balcones Canyonland National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for wildlife and wildflowers.
Swimmers can also enjoy splashing in the lake, but for those looking for slip sliding fun, LBJ Yacht Club and Marina will be opening their family friendly water park for the summer season May 25th. As always, the lake is also stocked with several varieties of Bass and Catfish, and the White Crappie fishing conditions are among the best in the region (even when drought conditions aren’t in force). Visitors craving cool water activities need look no further than Lake LBJ!
Wining and Dining at the Lake
Wine aficionados and foodies alike will find many reasons to enjoy Lake LBJ. The first stop on our Lake LBJ TV show preview is Perissos Vineyard and Winery. A family owned business, Perissos Vineyard began as a family hobby and grew into a passionate-driven business. Time, patience and research led the family to Hoover’s Valley and decomposed granite soils that are perfect for the varietal of grapes they grow. This boutique winery crafts special, 100% Texas grown wines, making for a special afternoon of wine tasting and wine-making education. Chet will undoubtedly be an entertaining and interesting behind-the-scenes tour guide of this special, family-run vineyard.
After enjoying Perissos Vineyard, visitors can take a short drive down Park Road 4 to Hoover Valley Café. Weekend visitors will surely enjoy the tasty, homemade country cooking and delicious pies this roadside restaurant serves up. The recipes are family recipes that have been passed down by the owner’s mother, and patrons swear by the yummy-ness of the comfort style foods served here.
Finally, after a busy afternoon playing and site-seeing, make sure to catch the gorgeous Texas Hill Country sunset and delicious Italian fare served at On the Rocks Italian restaurant. This restaurant is the perfect destination to enjoy a leisurely, unhurried meal while enjoying a perfectly poised hilltop vantage point to enjoy the sunset over Lake LBJ Traditional Italian dishes, along with some surprises like pistachio crusted chicken are served along with American fare for less adventurous diners.
Be sure to check your local PBS TV guide for show times of the Lake LBJ special. Replays are also posted to the Daytripper’s site, so you can catch the episode if you miss it when it airs live. There is a viewing party at On The Rocks on May 30th. Attendees are encouraged to arrive no later than 8 PM for the 8:30 viewing, and make sure to bring blankets and chairs for comfy seating (no pets, no umbrellas). For those wanting to have dinner beforehand, reservations are highly recommended. Chet will be making an appearance to introduce the show's premier and will be signing autographs and taking photos with fans. Come join us for the fun!
The Boating and Fishing Are Still Fine at Lake LBJ
Although Central Texas is in the middle of another drought, Lake LBJ is a welcome oasis from the summer heat and the dry conditions. Lake LBJ is one of the few lakes where small watercraft are still welcome, so thrill seekers can get their fix speeding across the lake on their Jet skis and speed boats.
Early risers can enjoy scenic hikes before the Texas heat is in full effect. There’s plenty of hiking trails in the area, but two of the most popular parks for superb hiking are Enchanted Rock State Park, featuring a 425 foot tall granite dome with spectacular views of the Texas Hill Country, and Balcones Canyonland National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for wildlife and wildflowers.
Swimmers can also enjoy splashing in the lake, but for those looking for slip sliding fun, LBJ Yacht Club and Marina will be opening their family friendly water park for the summer season May 25th. As always, the lake is also stocked with several varieties of Bass and Catfish, and the White Crappie fishing conditions are among the best in the region (even when drought conditions aren’t in force). Visitors craving cool water activities need look no further than Lake LBJ!
Wining and Dining at the Lake
Wine aficionados and foodies alike will find many reasons to enjoy Lake LBJ. The first stop on our Lake LBJ TV show preview is Perissos Vineyard and Winery. A family owned business, Perissos Vineyard began as a family hobby and grew into a passionate-driven business. Time, patience and research led the family to Hoover’s Valley and decomposed granite soils that are perfect for the varietal of grapes they grow. This boutique winery crafts special, 100% Texas grown wines, making for a special afternoon of wine tasting and wine-making education. Chet will undoubtedly be an entertaining and interesting behind-the-scenes tour guide of this special, family-run vineyard.
After enjoying Perissos Vineyard, visitors can take a short drive down Park Road 4 to Hoover Valley Café. Weekend visitors will surely enjoy the tasty, homemade country cooking and delicious pies this roadside restaurant serves up. The recipes are family recipes that have been passed down by the owner’s mother, and patrons swear by the yummy-ness of the comfort style foods served here.
Finally, after a busy afternoon playing and site-seeing, make sure to catch the gorgeous Texas Hill Country sunset and delicious Italian fare served at On the Rocks Italian restaurant. This restaurant is the perfect destination to enjoy a leisurely, unhurried meal while enjoying a perfectly poised hilltop vantage point to enjoy the sunset over Lake LBJ Traditional Italian dishes, along with some surprises like pistachio crusted chicken are served along with American fare for less adventurous diners.
Be sure to check your local PBS TV guide for show times of the Lake LBJ special. Replays are also posted to the Daytripper’s site, so you can catch the episode if you miss it when it airs live. There is a viewing party at On The Rocks on May 30th. Attendees are encouraged to arrive no later than 8 PM for the 8:30 viewing, and make sure to bring blankets and chairs for comfy seating (no pets, no umbrellas). For those wanting to have dinner beforehand, reservations are highly recommended. Chet will be making an appearance to introduce the show's premier and will be signing autographs and taking photos with fans. Come join us for the fun!
Festivals and Authentic Texas Culture – Events Not to Miss in May
May 07 2013 - 12:20:00 pm
There’s only one Texas, and the Highland Lakes puts on some fantastic festivals and events that truly embrace the culture of the Lone Star State. Great weather, burgeoning bluebonnets, live music and much more awaits those of ya’ll that come on out to these annual hoedowns in May.
No Maybes About It – Down Home Fun Awaits at Mayfest
Mark your calendar for May 9-12 so that you don’t miss the action of Marble Falls Mayfest. Also held at Johnson Park in Marble Falls, Mayfest brings the entire family together for some true Texas entertainment. Exciting rides at the festival begin on Thursday, and the weekend brings out food and crafts vendors.
Participate in the traditional washer pitching contest on Saturday, where participants play a southern style version of horseshoes. Fortunately, like with hand grenades, close counts – just put a washer in the box, the can inside the box for a bulls eye, or within a shoe size of the box. This one’s a local favorite, and with four days of activities, there are no excuses for missing it.
Blue Bell/Blue Grass Classic Car Show and Festival
The combination of sleek rides, the best ice cream in the country, and southern style bluegrass music is too much to resist! May 24-27 brings these three fine things together for 3 days of non-stop Texas culture in the downtown square of Llano. This Memorial Day weekend event features all day live music by talented Bluegrass musicians from around the nation, and there is an open jam session at the Badu House for aspiring musicians.
Whether you’re interested in pristine classic cars, scream for free ice scream, or want to get your groove on, The Blue Bell/Blue Grass Classic Car Show and Festival is sure to satisfy. Several special services occur throughout the weekend to honor our veterans, and there’s no better way to spend Memorial Day weekend.
Come one, come all! There’s plenty to do this time of year – visit the bass-filled Highland Lakes, tour the wildflower scene, or simply come for the Texas culture and live music that flourishes here.
No Maybes About It – Down Home Fun Awaits at Mayfest
Mark your calendar for May 9-12 so that you don’t miss the action of Marble Falls Mayfest. Also held at Johnson Park in Marble Falls, Mayfest brings the entire family together for some true Texas entertainment. Exciting rides at the festival begin on Thursday, and the weekend brings out food and crafts vendors.
Participate in the traditional washer pitching contest on Saturday, where participants play a southern style version of horseshoes. Fortunately, like with hand grenades, close counts – just put a washer in the box, the can inside the box for a bulls eye, or within a shoe size of the box. This one’s a local favorite, and with four days of activities, there are no excuses for missing it.
Blue Bell/Blue Grass Classic Car Show and Festival
The combination of sleek rides, the best ice cream in the country, and southern style bluegrass music is too much to resist! May 24-27 brings these three fine things together for 3 days of non-stop Texas culture in the downtown square of Llano. This Memorial Day weekend event features all day live music by talented Bluegrass musicians from around the nation, and there is an open jam session at the Badu House for aspiring musicians.
Whether you’re interested in pristine classic cars, scream for free ice scream, or want to get your groove on, The Blue Bell/Blue Grass Classic Car Show and Festival is sure to satisfy. Several special services occur throughout the weekend to honor our veterans, and there’s no better way to spend Memorial Day weekend.
Come one, come all! There’s plenty to do this time of year – visit the bass-filled Highland Lakes, tour the wildflower scene, or simply come for the Texas culture and live music that flourishes here.
