DRIPPING SPRINGS VISITOR’S GUIDE SPRING & SUMMER 2018
Explore our parks AUSTIN JAVA MORE THAN COFFEE
DISCOVER DRIFTWOOD
Sippin’ in Drippin’
22
WINERIES BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES
AMAZING SHOPS Get your shopping fix
NIGHTLIFE EXPLOSION
PERFECT FOR A BRIDE
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring More than live music The Wedding Capital&ofSummer Texas ®• 1
AUSTIN’S RESOURCE FOR
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2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 3
Contents
2018
COVER
Photo by Ben Guyton of his son June at Reimers Ranch.
WELCOME p. 6
4
CONTENTS
Drop by the Visitors Bureau Eat locally at Austin Java Hello coffee Restaurants, coffee, desserts & food trucks Stay in Drippin’ Lodging Sippin’ in Drippin’ Breweries, distilleries & wineries Shop Dripping Springs Shopping List Live music Barton Springs Mill Things to do Map Antiques, galleries, & museums Pedernales Falls Hamilton Pool Westcave Preserve Reimers Ranch City Parks Wedding Capital of Texas ® Wedding & event venues Transportation Dripping with Taste Songwriter’s Festival Farmer’s Market Fair & Rodeo Founder’s Day Tomato Roundup Events List Salt Lick Duchman Winery Fall Creek Vineyards Driftwood Winery
EAT p. 12
4 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
STAY p. 14
6 8 10 12 14 16 18 23 24 26 28 30 31 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 49 50 50 52 52 54 54 56 58 60 61 61
PLAY p. 24
18
The Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring and Summer 2018 is published by the Dripping Springs Century News and produced in conjunction with the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau DRIPPING SPRINGS VISITORS BUREAU (512) 858-4740 DRIPPING SPRINGS CENTURY NEWS (512) 858-4163
CONTRIBUTORS Pam Owens Hope Bolton Dalton Sweat John Pacheco Gary Zupancic Rachel Willis Laurel Robertson
60
PHOTOGRAPHERS
30
PARKS p. 36
WEDDINGS p. 46
EVENTS p. 50
Denise Cathey John Pacheco Dalton Sweat Gary Zupancic Suzanne Pacheco Dave Wilson Janice Smith Jerry Hayes Photography The Mill Photography Robert Anschutz Stacy Berg Rachael A. Barnes April Totten Arnie Goodman Diana Black
DESIGNERS Colton Ashabranner Toy Mendez
DRIFTWOOD p. 58
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 5
5
WELCOME
Drop by the Visitors Bureau Whether you are visiting, relocating or opening a new business, the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau, located at 509 West Mercer Street, stands ready to arm you with the information needed that will guide the way to a perfect experience. Dripping Springs is a community that combines the small-town nature of Texas with the hustle and bustle of a burgeoning city on the edge of one the largest metropolitan areas in Texas. No matter why you came to town, there is something worth doing just a few blocks away. The first must-stop location is the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau. Pam Owens, president and CEO, as well as communication specialist Hope Bolton, and their staff of volunteers can help you find out everything about the area. Under the same roof as the Visitors Bureau is the Dripping Springs Area Chamber
of Commerce. Sherrie Parks, executive director of the Chamber, and Susan Kimball, Vice President of membership, are great resources for new businesses. The town features amazing local and regional parks situated in the picturesque Texas Hill Country. There are historic sites that should not be missed, shopping that is creative, food that is sure to impress, and a unique and fun downtown, as well as hotels and bed and breakfasts that can take the edge off even the hardest exterior. “We promote year-round tourism for those who visit the Dripping Springs community,” Owens said. “Whether you come here for a week, a wedding or lifetime, you’re never going to run out of things to do.” Dripping Springs also has an amazing variety of events, festivals and happenings from Founders Day weekend to Christmas
on Mercer that are reason enough to make this your vacation destination. The community is also a perfect place to stay while visiting Austin or any of the myriad of wineries, breweries, orchards or distilleries nearby. Learn more at www. destinationdrippingsprings.com. Call the Visitors Bureau at (512) 858-4740 or the Chamber at (512) 858-7000.
“Whether you come here for a week, a wedding or lifetime, you’re never going to run out of things to do.” PAM OWENS, President and CEO
6 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
Hope, at left, is the Visitors Bureau’s Communication Specialist. Pam Owens, at right, is the President and CEO of the Visitors Center. Photo by Stacy Berg
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2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 7
EAT
Austin Java DRIPPING SPRINGS WELCOMES NEW FULL-SERVICE EATERY Dripping Springs enjoys a plethora of eclectic restaurants, and the number of choices is always growing. Twenty-three years after its founding, Austin Java arrived in Dripping Springs with its full service restaurant in the spring of 2018.
growth; but we also had loyal customers that visit our Austin locations, but live in Dripping. For some time now they’ve been asking, when are you coming to Dripping? So here we are! We are proud to become a part of this vibrant Dripping Springs community.”
“We are proud to become a
part of this vibrant Dripping Springs community.” -CINDY REED “Dripping Spring’s Austin Java is different from our Austin stores in that it’s a full service restaurant,” Cindy Reed said. “It’s comfort food, in a comfortable setting. A full service restaurant is a new concept for us, and we’re greatly looking forward to becoming part of Dripping Springs.” When asked why they came to Dripping Springs, Reed said, “We were aware that Dripping Springs has had phenomenal
The new restaurant offers an extensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. “We just hired a new executive chef for Dripping Springs, Sam Frumpkin, who comes to us from Napa Valley. I think he will tweak our present menu, evolve it some, but we should have a firm menu by March,” Reed said. “And of course, we will always offer what we’re known best for, a good cup of java.” Austin Java also offers live
8 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
music on the outdoor deck during the weekends, an outdoor playground for the children and a wine room. “The wine lounge is really two spaces, with one section being more like someone’s living room. A place for adults to relax and visit with each other,” Reed said. “The wine lounge was possible due to the large size of the location. Eventually we plan to move our corporate headquarters to Dripping Springs, that’s how big our Dripping Springs location is.” For visitors, the large space means they can make a choice of sitting
in a traditional restaurant sitting area, at a bar, in the wine lounge, or sitting on an outdoor deck listening to live music, as they keep an eye on their children in the restaurant’s playground. So whether you’re in the mood for a good cup of coffee, an adult beverage, or some extraordinary comfort food or breakfast, make sure to make a stop at Austin Java, Dripping Springs newest full service restaurant, bar, wine lounge, and of course coffee shop.
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EAT
Hello Coffee Coffee is a bonding ritual of its own, it can spark up business ventures, friendships and conversation alike. In Dripping Springs there seems to be a wealth of artisan bean roasters and espresso cocktail crafters, with six local independent coffee shops in the small, but growing, Texas town. Rolling in Thyme and Dough was the first coffee shop to lay claim to Dripping Springs in 2005. Owner Fabienne Bollom, a professionally
trained European baker, baked her way into the heart of town with her pastries accompanied by a great cup of coffee. Thyme and Dough is located on Highway 290 in Dripping Springs. Their cafe is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. On Thursdays they are open to 9 p.m. and offer a full bistro starting at 6 p.m. Greater Goods Coffee Roasters opened their doors in 2015. Owners
10 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
Khanh Trang and Trey Cobb have concocted the perfect mix of art and heart into their craft. They specialize in medium roasts coffee. The ambiance of the location is enhanced by a beautiful mural, pavilion and playground area. Greater Goods has also partnered up with charities in the area and each bag of coffee purchased will help support a specific charity. Greater Goods is located at 160 McGregor Lane in Dripping Springs. Their hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mazama Coffee Company opened its doors in downtown Dripping Springs back in 2012, and quickly became a favorite among the locals. Owners Vicky and Bruce Lewis had moved down to Dripping Springs from Seattle, Washington, in 2005 and created a small oasis from day to day life. They named their cafe after a town in the Cascade Mountains they used to retreat to. Mazama just opened their second location in Caliterra, two miles south of Dripping Springs on Ranch Road 12. Their location on historic Mercer
Street is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The new location is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturdays and
Sundays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dripping Springs’ growth has now attracted outside coffee venues like Starbucks and Austin Java, but despite the incoming competition, Dripping Springs still seems to love local.
GLASS
BLOWING
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2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 11
EAT
Restaurants, Coffee Shops, Desserts & Food Trucks BIG DRIP ICE CREAM PARLOR 310 Mercer St Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.facebook.com/The-BIG-Drip-Ice-Cream-Pa 512-971-3282
FLORES MEXICAN RESTAURANT 2440 E. Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.floresmexican.com 512-858-2221
BURGERGRILLE FOOD TRUCK Dripping Springs 1005 W. Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.burgergrilleds.com 512-367-0383
GREATER GOODS ROASTING COMPANY 160 McGregor Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.greatergoodsroasting.com 512-858-2680
CEDAR VALLEY EATS 12701 Nutty Brown Road Austin, TX 78737 www.cedarvalleyeats.com 512-585-3316
HAYS CITY STORE 8989 FM 150 West Driftwood, TX 78619 www.hayscitystoretx.com 512-722-3905
CREEK ROAD CAFE 301 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.creekroadcafe.com 512-858-9459
HILL COUNTRY RANCH PIZZERIA 598 US 290, Ste 250 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 hillcountryranchpizzeria.com 512-858-9697
DRIPPING SPRINGS CHOCOLATE COMPANY 391 Sportsplex Drive, Ste C Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.dschocolateco.com 512-695-9692 EPICURE 1025 Cannon Drive, Ste 105 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.epicuretx.com 512-858-7300
HOMESPUN KITCHEN & BAR 131 E Mercer St Dripping Springs TX 78620 .homespunkitchenandbar.com 512-829-4064 I DO BBQ/PIGPEN BBQ FOOD TRUCK 1005 W Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.ido-bbq.com 804-216-5419
12 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
MAZAMA COFFEE CO. 301 W Mercer St, Ste B Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.mazamacoffee.com 512-200-6472
SKULL & CAKEBONES 3991 E Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.skullandcakebones.com 512-348-8346
MCDONALD’S RESTAURANT 333 E. Hwy 290, Bldg A Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.mcdonalds.com 512-858-9920
SKY CINEMAS Dripping Springs 166 Hargraves St., Unit A100 Austin, TX 78703 www.skycinemas.com 512-457-0700
OAK CREEK CAFE 660 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.oakcreekcafe.com 512-829-4593 RAILROAD BBQ 1101 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.rrbbq.com 512-280-2366 ROLLING IN THYME & DOUGH 333 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.thymeanddough.com 512-894-0001 THE SALT LICK RESTAURANT AND PAVILION 18300 FM 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.saltlickbbq.com 512-894-3117
THUNDERCLOUD SUBS 598 E Hwy 290, Suite 230 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.thundercloud.com 512-858-4400 TRUDY’S FOUR STAR 13059 Four Star Blvd Austin, TX 78737 www.trudysfourstar.com 512-301-4300 VERDE’S MEXICAN PARRILLA 16018 Hamilton Pool Rd Austin, TX 78738 www.verdesmexican.com 512-263-0500 WELL YEAH CAKES 28109 Ranch Road 12 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.facebook.com/wellyeahcakes 512-894-2042
Edith Austin 512.695.0171 edith@stanberry.com
Alyson Bishop 512.924.5532 bishop@stanberry.com
Luxury Properties & Residences
Southwest Austin and Hill Country Homes
512.894.3488
Ask us for a copy of our Ultimate Guide to Dripping Springs!
400 HIGHWAY 290 WEST BUILDING B SUITE 101 DRIPPING SPRINGS, TEXAS 78620 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 13
STAY
Play Relax Stay
THE CREEK HAUS
Just a short drive from the boomtown of Austin, Dripping Springs has the burgeoning growth of a city suburb entwined with the rolling landscapes and natural preserves of the Texas Hill Country. Multiple wineries, breweries and distilleries have opened up within the last decade drawing tourists to the area. The new crowd has helped spur a growth in nightlife with a dancehall, music venues and bars reshaping the historic downtown. This is on top of one of the best conglomerations of state, county and local parks that any town in Texas can offer. The combination has made Dripping Springs one of the most popular destinations in the state. “Dripping Springs has a lot to offer,” Darlene Cabela, owner of local lodging and event facility Asante, said. “There are wine tours. It’s the Wedding Capital of Texas. It is an up and coming little city. It is growing like crazy, but there is a quiet Hill Country feel to it where you can get away and forget about the busyness of your normal life. There are plenty of things to do but it is quite and relaxing.” Asante is as unique as Dripping Springs. Located on about 100 acres,
THE CREEK HAUS
“serenity” is an understatement. There are multiple structures on the property that offer the option to rent out by the room, building or the entire property with each building having a unique flair. The largest draw is the main house, called “Nyumba,” which means “home” in Swahili. Adorned with authentic African décor from the Cabela’s personal trips to the continent, the facility offers a pool, large bar area and sleeps up to eight. There are four other buildings on the property, each as uniquely themed as the last including a new two-person tree house for romantic getaways. But the best part may be the wildlife tours, which feature the 17 exotics that live on the property. The property is perfect for a weekend getaway, family reunion or wedding. That is typical of many of the lodging opportunities in Dripping Springs. As the Wedding Capital of Texas, many places to stay double as a beautiful wedding venue. Since the venues are equipped for weddings, they also are ready to host family reunions or corporate retreats. The Creek Haus is nestled in a private, secluded valley that has a combination of a home with large rooms and large
14 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
kitchen and living room area. There are private suites and two family units. While the property can host up to 150 guests, it can also sleep 70 on site, but most groups are around 40 to 45 people. “The whole idea for this one is to get away,” Stacey Hogge, co-owner of Creek Haus and Vista West Ranch with her husband Joseph, said. “There is no wifi. There is no cell phone service. It is kind of off the grid. We offer a large special patio with enough seating for everyone staying there as well as a large fire pit, season creek and lots of yard games. It has a beautiful open Texas sky. Basically you go right back to 1985.” Beyond the offers of seclusion, Dripping Springs also has some more traditional options. For those looking for a hotel experience, Holiday Inn Express and Suites opened in July of 2017 in Dripping Springs. With meeting rooms for business travelers, and swimming pool for families, the 84 room modern facility is located downtown just off Highway 290. The Holiday Inn is close to all the activity surrounding Dripping Springs, and just 45 minutes away from downtown Austin. Sleep Inn Suites, another local hotel,
ASANTE
ASANTE
SLEEP INN
HOLIDAY INN
has become a home for many visitors over its six years of existence. “We are locally owned, and we have had basically the same employees since we opened the doors,” David Fralic, General Manager of Sleep Inn and Suites, said. “Our guests all know who they are dealing with every time. We treat everybody as if they are family when they come here.” Known for their incredible continental breakfast, Sleep Inn offers nothing short of fresh fruits, eggs, three types of meat, biscuits, gravy and seemingly anything else you could want to start your day.
The hotel offers the standard amenities with an indoor pool, fitness room, free internet and warm, modern design elements to help guests unwind in one of the best destinations in Texas. “Dripping Springs has so much to offer,” Fralic said. “We’ve got the wineries, breweries and distilleries. We’ve got the rodeo arena. We’ve got some very unique places to eat. We’ve got some great shopping. If you go down to Mercer Street it is very unique. There is so much to do in the Dripping Springs area outdoors. For a small town, it’s amazing how much entertainment there is. To be honest with you, I don’t think it gets any better.”
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 15
Lodging THE ALEXANDER AT CREEK ROAD 6730 Creek Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.thealexanderatcreekroad.com 866-515-1142 ASANTE LODGING & EVENTS 16580 Fitzhugh Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.stayasante.com 512-829-1046 BELLA NIDO Bed and Breakfast 23351 FM 150 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.bellanido.com 512-584-5088 BEST WESTERN Johnson City Inn 107 South Hwy. 281 Johnson City, TX 78636 www.bestwesternjohnsoncity.com 830-868-4044 BLANCO COUNTY INN & GUESTHOUSES 902 Main Street Blanco, TX 78606 www.blancocountyinn.com 830-833-4502 BUNKHOUSE on Onion Creek 4200 Creek Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.bunkhouseoncreekroad.com 361-423-0382 THE CABIN on Barton Creek 3400 Bell Springs Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.bbonline.com/tx/bartoncreek 512-858-4407 THE CABINS AT ONION CREEK 18992 FM 150 West Driftwood, TX 78619 www.thecabinsatonioncreek.com 888-622-4228 CAMP LUCY COTTAGES 3509 Creek Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.camplucy.com 512-858-4057
CANYON ROAD OLIVE RANCH 218 Canyon Rd Johnson City, TX 78636 www.oliveranch.org 214-907-4603 COMFORTABLE RENTALS ON NUTTY BROWN 12932 C Nutty Brown Rd Austin, TX 78737 www.texasvacationhomes4u.com 512-299-3099 D6 RETREAT 802 Bell Springs Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.d6retreat.com 512-829-1384 DEER RUN BED & BREAKFAST 20 Long Creek Rd Austin, TX 78737 www.deerrunbandb.com 512-633-5595 FALL CREEK VINEYARDS AT DRIFTWOOD 18059A FM 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.fcv.com 512-858-4050 HEART OF TEXAS GETAWAYS Wimberley locations Wimberley TX 78676 www.heartoftexasgetaways.com 512-722-3580 HILL COUNTRY CASITAS 7400 McGregor Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.hillcountrycasitas.com 512-809-4958 HILL COUNTRY PREMIER LODGING 13600 Ranch Road 12 Wimberley, TX 78676 www.hillcountrypremier.com 512-847-7460 HILLSIDE ACRES RETREAT 4032 RR 3232 Johnson City, TX 78636 hillsideacresretreat.com 830-868-7515
4 • 2018 Dripping Springs Chamber Welcome Guide
16 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS DRIPPING SPRINGS 333 Hwy 290 E Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.hiexpress.com 512-858-0280
SLEEP INN & SUITES OF DRIPPING SPRINGS 2720 E Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.choicehotels.com/texas/dripping-spring 512-858-4096
HOMESTEAD AT THE DRIPPING SPRINGS 500 Mercer St Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.dshomesteadbandb.com 512-858-4547
STAR HOUSE Bed and Breakfast 3230 Ranch Road 165 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.starhousebandb.com 512-858-4395
THE LINEY MOON 5401 W Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.thelineymoon.com 512-954-8534
VILLA VIGNETO TEXAS 700 West Creek Drive Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.villavignetotexas.com 512-270-8186
LIVE OAK CANYON GETAWAY 1000 Live Oak Canyon Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/ p4762445? 512-894-3973
WHITETAIL RIDGE RETREAT 401 & 301 Whitetail Ridge Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.WhitetailRidgeRetreat.com 956-346-0681
MCCOYS HILL COUNTRY BED AND BREAKFAST 14440 Sawyer Ranch Rd. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.McCoysHillCountryBedandBreakfast.com 512-858-5199 MT. GAINOR INN - A BED AND BREAKFAST 2390 Prochnow Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.mtgainorinn.com 512-858-0982 NEST VACATION RENTALS 1503 Spring Garden Rd Austin, TX 78746 www.nestvr.com 512-422-8503 ONION CREEK KITCHENS @ JUNIPER HILLS FARMS 5818 Ranch Road 165 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.juniperhillsfarm.com 830-833-0910 OUTPOST MOTEL 26200 RR 12 S Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.OutpostMotelTX.com 512-858-0052
RV PARKS COTTONWOOD CREEK RV PARK 2951 RR 165 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.cottonwoodcreekrvpark.com 512-858-0321 DRIPPING SPRINGS RANCH PARK RV PARK 1042 Event Center Drive Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.drippingspringsranchpark.com 512-858-4725 DRIPPING SPRINGS RV PARK 250 Windy Hills Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.dsrvpark.com 512-649-8913 HENLY RV PARK 710 Henly Loop Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.henlyrvpark.com 512-660-1273 SUNSET RV RESORT 16910 Hamilton Pool Rd Austin, TX 78738 www.sunsetrvresort.com 512-632-7878
REAL PROPERTIES
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 17
PLAY
PHOTO COURTESTY OF HAWK’S SHADOW WINERY
Sippin’ in Drippin’ ADULT BEVERAGES
D
ripping Springs has the trifecta of alcohol choices: wineries, distilleries and breweries. Visitors going on a wine tour of the area need not limit themselves to wine; depending on their tastes, they can also sample bourbon, vodka, gin, rum and micro-brews in a variety of venues, all with the unique Dripping Springs friendliness and ambiance. Many of the venues are family owned.
Treaty Oak Brewing & Distilling Treaty Oak founder Daniel Barnes is a former sommelier who named his company after the majestic 500 year old oak where, according to folklore, Texas founding father Stephen F. Austin signed a border agreement with local Native Americans. Barnes says he wanted the name to “symbolize the strength and longevity” of his products. Barnes started by experimenting with 200 recipes of rum, and introduced his flagship Treaty Oak Rum in 2007. Today, that spirit for exploring and creating new recipes in spirits continues to drive innovation of the various rums, vodkas, gin, bourbon whiskey and beer offered at Treaty Oak. While varied, they all share the common element of Barnes’ commitment to what he calls “quality, hand-crafted spirits,” he said. “No matter what we make, two things are consistent: we meticulously select the best ingredients for our products, and we adhere to stringent distilling
18 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
We continually test new recipes and try new processes to create amazing spirits that we think you’ll love.” - Owner, Daniel Barnes methods to ensure a high-quality finished product. Our spirits are born of science and experience, created in custom-made pot and column stills with our own unique distillation process. We continually test new recipes and try new processes to create amazing spirits that we think you’ll love.” An example of this care is the molasses used in Treaty Oak Rum. “Our Treaty Oak Rum is made with molasses sourced from the last sugar mill in Texas, in the Rio Grande Valley. We brew rum beer made of molasses and yeast in an initial fermentation, and then distill it in our custom stills,” Barnes said. As evidence of this passion and commitment to quality, Treaty Oak
earned the 2004 Distiller of the Year Award from MicroLiquor. Barnes was selected among a field of more than 400 distinguished craft distillers in the U.S. In December of 2016, Treaty Oak added a brewery to the property. The company introduced three new year-round brews including the Fitzhugh Ale, named after the road leading to the brewery, the Lil’ Hop Session IPA and the Bright Side Blonde Ale. The 27-acre Treaty Oak Brewing & Distilling, just north of central Dripping Springs, is a popular destination for both locals and out-town-guests, offering food and beverages, a tasting room, and cocktail house and restaurant.
Dripping Springs Vodka, Gin & Bourbon A San Luis Spirits Company Dripping Springs Vodka got its start in a small warehouse, which for the most part, only locals knew about. Two brothers, Kevin and Gary Kelleher, leased an abandoned church and built their first distillery. After waiting almost 18 months, their licensing finally came through and they were able to distribute their first case of Dripping Springs Vodka in 2007. The family business San Luis Spirits, which includes Kevin’s wife Susan, got off to a good start when it won Gold Best in Class, The Vodka Purity Trophy, at the 2008 International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) in London. To this day, Dripping Springs Vodka remains the only American vodka to win the IWSC Purity Vodka Trophy in the competitions forty-seven year history. More recently, Dripping Springs Vodka won Gold at the IWSC’s 2015 Spirit of the Americas Competition. Since inception, the family has since added five additional products to their name, launching Dripping Springs Texas Orange Vodka in 2011, Well
Dripping Springs Vodka & Gin 5330 Bell Springs Rd. Dripping Springs, Texas 78620 512-858-1199 drippingspringsvodka.com
PHOTO BY RACHAEL A. BARNES
Treaty Oak Brewing & Distilling 16604 Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, Texas 78620 512-599-0335 www.treatyoakdistilling.com No. 1876 Vodka in 2012, Dripping Springs Artisan Gin in 2014, and Dripping Springs Traditional Gin in September 2016. The latest addition to their products is 1876 Bourbon. Just released in September, the 1876 Bourbon promises to be the same great quality as all the other San Luis products. All five San Luis products are non-GMO corn based, making them naturally gluten-free. They are also Certified Kosher through the Houston Kashruth Association. Dripping Springs Vodka & Gin’s success can be attributed to the Kelleher family’s passion for creating true craft products. “Our whole mantra is to spend the time to make the best product possible as opposed to mass production,” said Kevin Kelleher, who oversees the distillery as CEO. And true craft it is. Small batches and quality water are the name of the game at Dripping Springs Vokda. Their products are distilled in small 40-to-50 gallon batches in proprietary copper pot stills designed specifically for the distillery.
Tasting Room Hours: Monday-Thursday 10:00am-5:00pm Friday 10:00am-3:00pm Saturday 11:00am-3:00pm
Tour & Tasting Hours Friday 3pm - 9pm Saturday 12pm - 9pm Sunday 12pm - 6pm The distillery offers tours and tastings. Walk-in tastings are available Monday through Saturday and scheduled tours are offered on Thursdays at 3 p.m., Fridays at 1 p.m. and Saturdays at 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. Guests must be over 21 to attend and are asked to purchase tickets in advance at www.drippingspringsvodka.com.
PHOTO BY APRIL TOTTEN
PHOTO BY APRIL TOTTEN
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 19
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Twisted X Brewing Company The Twisted X Brewing Company, located near the intersection of Ranch Road 12 and FM 150, offers up an array of fine small-batch craft beers in both an indoor and outdoor venue. The microbrewery
Twisted X Brewing Company 23455 W RR 150, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 (512-829-5323 twistedxbrewing.com
Suds Monkey Brewing Company “The biggest question that comes up is, ‘How did you come up with the name?’” Sud Monkey Brewing Company co-owner Greg Plummer said. “The short answer is that trademarking a name is very difficult. After 57 rejections due to infringement, we decided we needed a character.” And with that, the “overly confident, gregarious, party animal character,”
Suds Monkey Brewing Company 1032 Canyon Bend Drive #B (Highway 290 at Canyon Bend) Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-222-3893 Sudmonkeybrew.com Hours Friday 3 pm – 9 pm Saturday 12 pm – 9 pm Sunday 12 pm – 6 pm
that represents the brewery was born. “Suds Monkey is part Fonzy, from Happy Days, and part Jim Morrison. His name is a reference from Happy Days when beer was commonly referred to as a mug of suds,” Plummer said. “All our beers are monkey themed, and most of them reflect a time in our imaginary character’s life.” Plummer and fellow co-owner Steve Gray consistently keep seven beers on tap, ranging from Cheeky Monkey Session Ale, a light and easy drinking beer with 4.5% alcohol, to Funky Monkey IPA, a “malty and boozey juice bomb that’s not too bitter,” with 7.9% alcohol. Suds Monkey also rotates new beers on and off their menu as the production schedule allows. “When we first started we would have beer battles. This is when we would test two versions of the same beer and let our customers decide. We still do this, and publicly promote when the next ‘Beer Royal Rumble’ is going to take place,” Plummer said. Plummer moved to Dripping Springs
20 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
is a favorite of locals. On top of the great brews, there is a food truck and the venue often hosts live music. Area visitors who enjoy unique and newly crafted beers would do well to visit Twisted X and sample their latest creations from their “brew crew,” many of which are only available in their tasting room.
Hours Monday – Wednesday, Closed – Private Events Only Thursday – Saturday 11 am – 9 pm Sundays 12 pm – 8 pm
from San Diego in 2009 and has “LOVED it in Dripping Springs,” ever since. “The best part is watching all the growth in the brewing community out this way. Dripping Springs has become a ‘destination’ for craft beer, distillers, and wineries. Dripping Springs is no longer too far away. Instead it is a place that is more than worth the drive because of the diverse experience that people can have going from brewery to brewery and beyond,” Plummer said.
a rescue zoo
Let's have
www.austinzoo.org 512) 288-1490
Villa Vigneto Texas www.villavignetotexas.com
Experience 512.270.8186
Villa Vigneto Texas Villa Vigneto Texas is a charming, European style Bed and Breakfast and Vacation Rental on 3 private acres of Hill Country featuring elegant guest rooms and luxurious baths. Nature abounds with a walking trail and 2 oak groves under which to enjoy wildlife during the day or stars at night. Villa Vigneto Texas is located 30 minutes from downtown Austin and at the “Gateway to the Hill Country” in Dripping Springs.
www.VillaVignetoTexas.com
512.270.8186
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 21
PLAY PHOTO COURTESY OF HAWK’S SHADOW WINERY
PHOTO COURTESY OF BELL SPRINGS WINERY
Hawks Shadow Winery If you want to see what the Texas Hill Country truly looks like as you sip your wine, consider a drive out to Hawk’s Shadow Winery on McGregor Lane. With sweeping views of the Texas Hill Country, Hawk’s Shadow Winery & Vineyards offers a relaxing escape from the working world and an authentic taste of handcrafted Texas wine. The family owned winery welcomes picnics on the patio and dinners in the Cellar. Four legged friends are welcome as well.
Hawk’s Shadow Wine 7500 McGregor Lane, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-587-9085 hawksshadow.com
Hours Saturday 12pm – 6pm Wednesday through Friday, as well as Sunday - by appointment only.
Bell Springs Winery & Sidecar Tasting Room
Main Winery 3700 Bell Springs Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-643-7398 bellspringswinery.com
Sidecar Tasting Room 501 Old Fitzhugh Rd., Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Bell Springs Winery offers two distinctively different venues. If you would like to experience a “Prohibition Wine Bar,” Bell Springs Wine offers the Sidecar Tasting Room in the heart of the Historic District of Dripping Springs on Old Fitzhugh Road. The décor and old piano will make you feel as if you had stepped into another era. For a traditional picnic setting, consider their main facility on Bell Springs Road. You can bring your own blanket or chairs as you sip your wine in a park-like setting.
Hours Open Daily: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm Last Tasting at 5:45 pm
Hours Monday - Thursday: 2 pm - 9 pm Friday: 2 pm - 10 pm Saturday: 12 pm - 10 pm Sunday: 12 pm - 8 pm
Westcave Cellars Westcave Cellars started in 1999 as a vineyard to provide grapes to local wineries after owners Margaret and Allan Fetty found the perfect piece of property next to West Cave Preserve. After a few years, the vineyard began producing wine too. Officially opening its doors to the public in 2011. Westcave Cellars produces unique wines made in the oldworld style that is strongly influenced by French traditions. The vineyard has nine acres hosting 8,000 vines that include nine different varieties of grapes. Stop by the tasting room and experience these incredible 100-percent Texas wines. 22 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
Westcave Cellars 25711 Hamilton Pool Road Round Mountain, TX 78663 (512) 431-1403 westcavecellars.com
Hours Sun. 11am – 5:30pm Tues. – Wed. By Appointment Only Thurs. 11am – 5:30pm Fri. 11am – 5:30pm Sat. 11am – 6pm Sun. 12pm – 6pm
Breweries ACOPON BREWING CO. 211 W Mercer St. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.acoponbrewing.com 512-829-4723 THE BARBER SHOP 207 Mercer Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.barbershopbar.com 512-626-0086
SUDS MONKEY BREWING COMPANY 1032 Canyon Bend Drive Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.SudsMonkeyBrew.com 512-222-3893
TWISTED X BREWING COMPANY 23455 W RR 150 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.twistedxbrewing.com 512-829-5323
VISTA BREWING 13551 FM 150 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.vistabrewingtx.com 512-766-1842
TREATY OAK BREWING AND DISTILLING CO. 16604 Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.treatyoakdistilling.com 512-599-0335
Distilleries DEEP EDDY VODKA DISTILLERY 2250 E. Hwy. 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.deepeddyvodka.com 512-994-3534
SAN LUIS SPIRITS Home of Dripping Springs Vodka & Gin 5330 Bell Springs Rd. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.drippingspringsvodka.com 512-858-1199
TREATY OAK BREWING & DISTILLING CO. 16604 Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.treatyoakdistilling.com 512-599-0335
STINSON DISTILLING 18281 Ranch to Market Rd 150 Driftwood, TX 78619 512-703-0628
DESERT DOOR TEXAS SOTOL 211 Darden Hill Rd Driftwood, TX 78619 www.desertdoor.com 512-829-6129
Wineries & Tasting Rooms BELL SPRINGS WINERY 3700 Bell Springs Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.bellspringswinery.com 512-643-7398 DRIFTWOOD ESTATE WINERY 4001 Elder Hill Rd Driftwood, TX 78619 www.driftwoodwine.com 512-858-9667 DUCHMAN FAMILY WINERY 13308 FM 150 West Driftwood, TX 78619 www.duchmanwines.com 512-858-1470
FALL CREEK VINEYARDS AT DRIFTWOOD 18059A FM 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.fcv.com 512-858-4050 HAWK’S SHADOW WINERY 7500 McGregor Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.hawksshadow.com 866-551-9463
SOLARO ESTATE WINERY 13111 Silver Creek Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78650 www.solaroestate.com 832-660-8642
TEXAS HILLS VINEYARD 878 RR 2766 Johnson City, TX 78636 www.texashillsvineyard.com 830-868-2321
TEXAS HILL COUNTRY Olive Co. Tasting Room 2530 W Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 texashillcountryoliveco.com 512-607-6512
WESTCAVE CELLARS WINERY 25711 Hamilton Pool Rd Round Mountain, TX 78663 www.westcavecellars.com 512-431-1403
SIDECAR TASTING ROOM 501 Old Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 bellspringswinery.com/sidecar 512-643-7398 2018 Dripping Springs Chamber Welcome Guide • 11 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 23
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Shop Dripping Springs Cowgirls and Lace offers fabric, home goods and more The shopping scene has been exploding throughout Dripping Springs in recent years, but back in 1994, there weren’t many options around town. “When we started the store, there wasn’t hardly anything in Dripping Springs, so we started trying to meet the shopping needs of the people who lived out here,” Reba Byrd, owner of Cowgirls and Lace, said. “We were just doing rugs and we ventured into the fabric business, then we started selling toys, now we do interior decorating projects and so much more.” From body care for women and men to fragrances, clothes, candles and furniture, there isn’t much you can’t find at Cowgirls and Lace. “Fabrics are our main thrust in the business, but we do a lot of gifts and items for your home,” Byrd said. “We do all kinds of custom bedding. We have over 1,000
bolts of fabric you can buy off the bolt, and that is very unusual in today’s market.” The multitude of offerings has made Cowgirls and Lace a destination shop in the Hill Country drawing tourists from all over the area. That is true of many businesses in Dripping Springs. The entire tourism industry has taken off. Historic Downtown Mercer Street has been revived and is now a focal point of both shopping and nightlife. “I think shopping in Dripping Springs gets better every day,” Byrd said. “It is wonderful that these shops that are coming in. When you go into a shop while walking down Mercer Street, you’ll see something you just love and have to have. The whole scene here in Dripping Springs is great. All the wedding venues and wineries – it is just unbelievable what has happened in the last 10 years here, and I
24 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
am thrilled to see it.” But what makes shopping in Dripping Springs unique is that, while the town is growing, the local businesses have thrived. Almost all of the new shops around town are locally owned, and that gives the customer an even better experience. “You get personal service when the owner is involved,”
Byrd said. “I don’t know about the other stores, but when people come in my store more then a few times my people know them by name. If you go into a big box store you have to find what you want and then find someone to sell it to you. When you shop out here you feel that connection with the hometown friendliness.”
Congratulations! You Made It to the Hill Country! Now make sure you get to enjoy it. Don’t let life get in the way of living the dream. LIFE WELL PLANNED. Susan Santamaria, AAMS® Financial Advisor/Branch Manager
Richard Santamaria Registered Branch Professional
Paula Waggoner Branch Office Administrator
Ask me why you should work with a local agent! Michele Ryon Realtor, MCNE, ABR,MRP 512-299-7455 mryon@kw.com DrippingSpringsHomes.com
Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. 14101 W Hwy 290 BLDG 800 Austin, Texas 78737 P 512-894-2137 : TF 844-347-8350 : TF 844-260-3894
Scrapbooks Paper Crafts Mixed Media Quilting Fabric
Your Scrapbook Headquarters 13600 Ranch Rd 12, Ste. A Wimberley, TX (512) 847-0909 www.sassyscrappers.com Visit us on Facebook 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 25
Shopping ACT 3 SCREENPRINTING 2400-B Hwy 290 West, Suite 6 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.act3screenprinting.com 512-607-6559
DANI BETH BOUTIQUE 11601 W Hwy 290 Austin, TX 78737 www.danibethboutique.com 512-656-8720
MY HAPPY PLACE 2201 Highway 290 West Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.myhappyplacehome.com 512-484-5808
SOPHIE’S GARDEN SALON 665 W Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.sophiesgarden.com 512-858-1828
ARMADILLO E-CIGS 27490 RR 12, Bldg B, Ste 5 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.armadilloecigs.com 512-858-7620
DRIPPIN’ PICKIN’S 151 Silver Charm Austin, TX 78737 www.drippinpickins.com 512-750-5755
NAVIDAD FARMS PECANS 10604-A Circle Drive Austin, TX 78736 www.navidadfarms.com 512-288-1196
STARRS ON MERCER 209 Mercer Street Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.shopwithstarrs.com 512-858-4100
ART GARAGE 11190 Circle Dr., Ste 202 Austin, TX 78736 www.theartgarageaustin.com 512-852-9900
FRESH NATIVE 28101 Ranch Road 12 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.facebook.com/FreshNativeTX 512-858-5300
NEW CANAAN FARMS 5916 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.newcanaanfarms.com 512-858-7669
THE TEXAS CLOTHIER By Appointment Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.texasclothier.com 512-478-4956
AVREY GRACE BOUTIQUE 400 W. Hwy 290, Ste A104 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.avreygraceboutique.com 512-829-4487
HAUTE EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT 400 W Hwy 290, Ste A102 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.facebook.com hauteexchangeconsignment 512-829-4430
PAYER EYES PO Box 1125 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 PayerEyes.com 610-420-0500
TRIPLE S FEED AND GENERAL STORE 2111 US 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-0344
PRINT PLUS 222 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.myprintplus.biz 512-894-0270
TWIN LIQUORS 598 E. Highway 290, Suite 200 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.twinliquors.com 512-858-7744
THE PURE WATER STOP 100 Mercer Street, Ste C Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.dspurewater.com 512-858-4464
VIK JEWELERS 598 E. Hwy 290, Ste 240 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.vikjewelers.com 512-858-1234
PURPLE LACE BOUTIQUE 665 US-290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.purplelaceboutique.com/ 512-573-7058
VINTAGE SOUL 300 Mercer St. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.vintagesoultx.com 512-567-5934
THE RURAL HOME 100 Brookside Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.facebook.com/TheRuralHome/ 713-410-3027
WALGREENS 27495 RR 12 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.walgreens.com 512-858-1984
SACRED MOON HERBS 305 Mercer St Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.sacredmoonherbs.com 512-858-7305
WILSON AC & APPLIANCE 4205 E Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.wilsonappliance.com 512-894-0907
BEESWAX CO. 120 Frog Pond Ln, Bldg A-100 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.beeswaxco.com 512-829-5586 BIG FROG CUSTOM T-SHIRTS & MORE 5400 Brodie Lane, Ste 235 Austin, TX 78745 www.bigfrog.com/SouthAustin 512-899-3764 BLOOMERY DESIGNS 152 Dakota Mountain Dr. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.bloomerydesigns.com 512-983-0532 BREED & CO Belterra Village Austin, TX 78737 512-828-3510 CARTER FLOORS AND MORE 709-A Hwy. 290W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 carterfloorsandmore.1wp.com/Home 512-858-7444 CARVED STONE, INC. 5300 Bell Springs Rd. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.carved-stone.com 512-858-5665 DANTAY’S FLOWERS & GIFTS 222 Hwy 290 West Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.dantays.com 512-858-7625
HIGH COTTON HOME & DESIGN 10827 W US Hw 290, Ste 110 Austin, TX 78736 www.highcottonhomedesign.com 512-423-1963 JAM MOM BABY KIDS 750-B Old Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.jambabykids.com 512-894-2198 LE RAGGE RUGGS/ COWGIRLS & LACE 1111 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.cowgirlsandlace.com 512-894-0350 LONE STAR GIFTS 301A Mercer St. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.lonestargifts.net 512-858-9912 MAZAMA COFFEE CO 301 Mercer Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.mazamacoffee.com 512-200-6472 MONOGRAMMING & ETC. 120 Frog Pond Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.monogrammingetc.com 512-894-4061
12 • 2018 Dripping Springs Chamber Welcome Guide
26 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
THE SATED SHEEP 100 Commons Rd, Ste 5 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.satedsheep.com 512-829-4607 SOLSTICE GARDENS 900 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.solsticeoutdoors.com 512-569-0175
WELCOME TO
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BE MOVED.
BE INSPIRED.
C ALI TE R R A
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• From the high $200s • Gated enclave community • 2 to 3 bedroom garden home designs • From 1,206 to 3,100 sq. ft.
Belterra
RETREAT AT DRIPPING SPRINGS
289 Brentwood Drive, Austin, TX 512.498.4306
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CALITERRA
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BELTERRA
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DRIPPING SPRINGS
Visit BrookfieldTX.com to learn more about Brookfield Residential communities and homes. Availability of homes, pricing, plans and specifications are subject to change without notice or prior obligation. See a New Home Counselor for details. Brookfield Residential reserves the right to make modifications in materials and specifications at any time without prior notice. © 2018 Brookfield Residential Properties Inc. All rights reserved.
The Best Places to Call Home
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 27
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PHOTO COURTESY OF SKYROCKET BAND AT MERCER STREET DANCEHALL
Live Music If you’re visiting Dripping Springs, one thing you can be sure of is that there will be some sort of live music on the day of your visit. “We’re unusual in the sense that we have live music going on every day of the week,” Visitors Bureau President and CEO Pam Owens said. “Somewhere on Mercer Street, or nearby, someone will be on stage.” On the north side of Mercer, sits Mercer Street Dancehall. It’s been called a true Texas dancehall, the likes of which are not often seen in 2017. Visitors can catch a variety of musical acts on its stage, whether it’s a traditional country act or more contemporary fare. “Mercer Street Dancehall has got the dancehall feel with a honky-tonk vibe, and the fact that it’s in Dripping Springs makes it better,” legendary country music singer Dale Watson said. “Best Honky-Tonk in Central Texas,” Jimmie Vaughn famous guitarist and four-time Grammy award winner added. The dancehall also has one of the largest dance floors in Hays County. And just in case you’re a little rusty with your dance moves, Mercer Street Dancehall offers dance lessons every Saturday night at 7:30 p.m.. But the music doesn’t stop on the north side of Mercer Street. Directly across the street sits Hudson’s on Mercer. Owners Chad and Natasha Hudson say it was created by artists for artists, with state of the art sound boards, recording studio, and five music lesson rooms in the back. In it, you’ll find a combination of home grown Central Texas talent, as well as nationally known musicians. Chad Hudson receives calls from musicians that play much larger venues that now want to play in Dripping Springs. “They heard about the ambiance and the energy of Hudson’s,” Chad said. 28 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
Muddy Waters Blues icon Paul Oscher said of Hudson’s, “Man I like it out here. It’s a place with an old time feel, a close in audience feel musicians love.” During his visit, Oscher delighted Hudson’s patrons in the patio with a “preshow” before officially taking to the Hudson’s stage. The music scene continues to expand with many local restaurants, coffee houses, wineries, breweries, distilleries and bars supporting the cause. At the Barbershop, a pub on Mercer where many locals have their own name-engraved mugs waiting for them behind the bar, visitors can see live music every Tuesday night. Nearby restaurant Homespun, and Sidecar Tasting Room also have stages for shows during the week. There is always something happening in the Historic District. “This is the heart of Dripping Springs,” John McIntosh, co-owner of the Barber Shop said.
PHOTO BY ARNIE GOODMAN
Live Music ACOPON BREWING CO. 211 W Mercer St. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.acoponbrewing.com 512-829-4723
HOMESPUN KITCHEN & BAR 131 E Mercer St Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.homespunkitchenandbar.com 512-829-4064
BARBER BREWPUB SHOP 207 Mercer Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.barbershopbar.com 512-626-0086
HUDSON’S ON MERCER STREET 381 Mercer St Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.hudsonsonmercer.com 512-894-2075
BELL SPRINGS WINERY 3700 Bell Springs Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.bellspringswinery.com 512-643-7398 HAYS CITY STORE 8989 FM 150 West Driftwood, TX 78619 www.hayscitystoretx.com 512-722-3905
MERCER STREET DANCEHALL 332 Mercer St Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.mercerstreetdancehall.com
ROLLING IN THYME & DOUGH 333 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.thymeanddough.com 512-894-0001
SUDS MONKEY BREWING COMPANY 1032 Canyon Bend Drive Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.SudsMonkeyBrew.com 512-222-3893
SALT LICK RESTAURANT 18300 FM 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.saltlickbbq.com 512-894-3117
TREATY OAK BREWING TAND DISTILLING CO. 16604 Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.treatyoakdistilling.com 512-599-0335
SIDECAR TASTING ROOM 501 Old Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.bellspringswinery.com/sidecar.html 512-643-7398
TWISTED X BREWING Brewing Company 23455 W RR 150 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.twistedxbrewing.com 512-829-5323
CHECK WITH THE VENUE FOR THEIR MUSIC LINE-UP OR GO TO WWW.DESTINATIONDRIPPINGSPRINGS.COM/EVENTS.
SCRATCH-MADE COMFORT FOOD • 52 DRAFTS • BEER GARDEN PIZZA KITCHEN • FULL BAR • HAPPY HOUR DAILY 8989 FM 150 DRIFTWOOD TX 78619 • 512. 722.3905 • www-hayscitystoretx.com
10 • 2018 Dripping Springs Chamber Welcome Guide
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 29
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Barton Springs Mill
BARTON SPRINGS MILL 252 Frog Pond Lane, Suite A Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Phone: (512) 554-5981 bartonspringsmill.com 9am–4pm Fri & Sat Classes: Sat 12pm–6pm
30 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
Artisans can be found almost anywhere in the Texas Hill Country, whether it be in beer, bread, or glassworks; but James Brown of Barton Springs Mill offers unique artistry in the production of a wide range of flours. Flour he grounds onsite using a variety of wheat, rye, corn, and other available materials. Brown’s efforts today may be epicurean, but his background is in music. His 30 years as a musician included being in charge of Worship and Fine Arts at First Presbyterian Church. He started thinking about retirement and wanted to become a culinary chef, but quickly figured out that it “was a young man’s job,” and not really for him. He then did a little baking, researched flour, and realized that there was a “grain movement, where local and regional grains (are milled) and that nobody was doing that.” As he began his journey with milling, he was razzed about whether he had become a hipster, and was often asked, “you’re doing what?” But he had a great mill idea. He would partner with four farmers to grow acres of organic wheat and rye. The idea of working with farmers worked out well, and he soon had contracts to buy the cover crops that were grown in-between wheat season. Rotating wheat crops with rare peanuts, cowpeas, and heirloom beans is giving farmers a sustainable financial model. The certified organic crops are then sold to top level chefs and restaurants “A lot of farmers are quitting because of the diseases and the hard work. We don’t want to lose anymore farmers,” Brown said. “The wheat varieties are 8 hard winter wheat, 1 soft winter, 4 ryes, 5 corn, 6 buckwheat, and barley… with different siftings there are 60 to 70 options.” The flour is all organically farmed and then lowered in temperature to get rid of bugs and other impurities and is “darn tasty,” he said. “Make bread the way God intended.”
Things to Do ALMOST GROWN PLAY CAFÉ 18901 Hamilton Pool Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.almostgrownplaycafe.com 512-761-4622 ANYTIME FITNESS 707 Hwy 290 West Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.anytimefitness.com 512-858-7171 ART GARAGE 11190 Circle Dr., Ste 202 Austin, TX 78736 www.theartgarageaustin.com 512-852-9900 AUSTIN ZOO 10808 Rawhide Trail Austin, TX 78736 www.austinzoo.org 512-288-1490 BOARD AND BRUSH CREATIVE STUDIO 333 Highway 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 boardandbrush.com/ drippingsprings 512-643-3800
BUGGY BARN MUSEUM 1915 Main Street Blanco, TX 78606 www.buggybarnmuseum.com 830-833-5708 CHARRO RANCH PARK 22690 W FM 260 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.cityofdrippingsprings.com 512-858-4725 DR. POUND HISTORICAL FARMSTEAD 570 Founders Park Road Dripping Springs TX, 78620 drpoundhistoricalfarmstead.org 512-858-2030 DRIPPING SPRINGS RANCH PARK 1042 Event Center Dr Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.cityofdrippingsprings.com 512-858-4725
DRIPPING SPRINGS VISITORS BUREAU 509 Mercer St. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 destinationdrippingsprings.com 512-858-4740 FOUNDERS MEMORIAL PARK & POOL 480 Founders Park Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.cityofdrippingsprings.com 512-858-4725 HILL COUNTRY SCIENCE MILL 101 South Lady Bird Lane Johnson City, TX 78636 www.sciencemill.org 844-263-6405 JUMP WILD 295 Frog Pond Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.jumpwild.com 512-858-2500
SPRINGS FAMILY YMCA 27216 RR 12 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.austinymca.org 512-894-3309
ONION CREEK KITCHENS @ JUNIPER HILLS FARM 5858 Ranch Road 165 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.juniperhillsfarm.com 830-833-0910
TEXAS HILL COUNTRY OLIVE CO 2530 W Fitzhugh Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.texashillcountryoliveco.com 512-607-6512
SKYCINEMAS Belterra Village Dripping Springs, TX 78737 www.skycinemas 512-457-0700 SOLSTICE GARDENS 900 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.solsticeoutdoors.com 512-569-0175
TWO-90 PAWN & ARCHERY 9204 Hwy 290 W Austin, TX 78736 www.archeryaustin.com 512-838-6996
SPORTS & RECREATION PARK 27148 RR 12 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.cityofdrippingsprings.com 512-858-4725
VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK 130 E Mercer St Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.cityofdrippingsprings.com 512-858-4725 WIMBERLEY PLAYERS 450 Old Kyle Road Wimberley, TX 78676 www.wimberleyplayers.org 512-847-0575
HIGH TIDE POOL SERVICE
Quality, Dependable Service for over 18 years Keith Miller, Owner TICL #786
• • • • • • •
Cleanings Repairs Plaster & Tile Drain & Clean Renovations Pool School Start-ups
512.965.3465
6 • 2018 Dripping Springs Chamber Welcome Guide
HighTidePoolService@yahoo.com www.HighTidePoolService.com 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 31
Westcave Cellars
Live Oak Canyon Getaway
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165
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32 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
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Map provided by the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 33
PLAY
Explore Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead offers a unique glimpse into history Entering the Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead is a step into the flourishing pioneer life of Central Texas. The beautifully restored family house, dating to 1854, is filled with original family furnishings and heirlooms. The farmstead barn, smokehouse, windmill, underground cellar and garden areas are renovated, as they existed over a century ago. Dr. Joseph and Sarah Pound built their one-room log cabin in 1854, in the wilderness of what is now Dripping Springs. Over the years, the house expanded to serve nine children and it became the focal point for the developing community, serving as a doctor’s office, site of the first school, first church services, and gathering place for the area’s social life. Today, the restored home
Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead 750 Founders Park Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 drpoundhistoricalfarmstead.org and farmstead is a historical museum, open for tours and events, to provide us, and future generations, an experience of life in early Texas. It is again, a focal point of the community. The farmstead is a true national treasure. It is included in the National Register of Historic Places and was recorded as a Texas Historic Landmark in 1965. It is entirely
sustained by charitable contributions and the work of countless volunteers and community members. We invite you to participate with us in preserving the historic farmstead—come and enjoy a tour, attend an event, volunteer, or make a greatly appreciated donation. Today, the laughter of children and the voices of neighbors can still be heard on the grounds of the
150-year old farmstead. The Dr. Pound Farmstead is available for private parties and special events such as weddings, reunions, social gatherings, special tours and educational functions. The Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead is open Wednesday through Saturday, from noon to 3 p.m. A donation of $5 includes a tour. Groups are also welcome.
Antiques • Galleries • Museums BUGGY BARN MUSEUM 1915 Main Street Blanco, TX 78606 www.buggybarnmuseum.com 830-833-5708 MARA CARDWELL ONLINE ART GALLERY 740 Sports Park Road (By Appt Only) Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.maracardwellartgallery.com 512-296-7751
DR. POUND HISTORICAL FARMSTEAD 570 Founders Park Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.drpoundhistoricalfarmstead.org 512-858-2030 DRIPPIN’ PICKIN’S 151 Silver Charm Austin, TX 78737 www.drippinpickins.com 512-750-5755
CARVED STONE, INC. 5300 Bell Springs Rd. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.carved-stone.com 512-858-5665
34 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
HILL COUNTRY SCIENCE MILL 101 South Lady Bird Lane Johnson City, TX 78636 www.sciencemill.org 844-263-6405
THE RURAL HOME 100 Brookside Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.facebook.com/TheRuralHome 713-410-3027
LONE STAR GIFTS 301 Mercer St Dripping Springs, TX 78650 www.longstargifts.net 512-858-9912
SOLSTICE GARDENS 900 Hwy 290 W Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.solsticeoutdoors.com 512-569-0175
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2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 35
PARKS
Outdoor Adventure PEDERNALES FALLS
PHOTO COURTESTY OF TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE
Pedernales Falls State Park may have the most tranquil set of falls you can find. The park’s namesake feature allows visitors to get up-close and personal with the beauty of the Pedernales River. “The falls are more of a cascading waterfall, not a dropping waterfall,” Carl Flocke, assistant superintendent of Pedernales Falls State Park, said. “It gently rolls down over a series of limestone ledges in the river. It spills over these rocks forming a neat water pattern. There are areas where it shoots through rapids. There are deep pools between the falls as well that are very pretty. You can
wander out and hike around them and explore the channels were the river used to run and has carved out caves and grottoes around the fall. The whole area is very beautiful.” The 5,212-acre park sits just a few miles west of Dripping Springs. With miles of river front access, the park is a hit in the summer time for those looking for water recreation. Beyond swimming, the park offers miles of hiking. There are over 40 miles of hike and bike trails. “We have several creeks running through the park that form neat pools and formations,” Flocke said. “They can be accessed by our trail
36 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
system and they get you out deep into the Hill Country. You can hike out on to ridges that allow you to see untarnished Hill Country views. You can go up and down over hills and ridges with junipers and oaks.” The park is located at 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City. Swimming, hiking, camping and fishing are the most popular activities. Day access is only $6 per adults, children 12 and under are free. Overnight camping is an additional $5 per night per adult. More information can be found at tpwd.texas.gov/ state-parks/pedernales-falls or by calling (830) 868-7304.
20 1
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2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 37
PARKS
Swim & Relax HAMILTON POOL
PHOTO COURTESTY OF TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE
Just minutes north of Dripping Springs is a lush natural pool of water known as Hamilton Pool. Known since the time of Native Americans, this nature preserve has a concave overhang that creates a beautiful waterfall. It is begging to be explored and enjoyed. “When people come in from out of town, and I want to show them the natural beauty of Central Texas, I take them to Hamilton Pool,” Michael Brewster, Park Supervisor for Hamilton Pool Preserve, said. “It never fails to astonish people.” “Most people can’t believe they are in Texas, because it looks more like the rainforest.” Swimming, picnicking and hiking are just a few of the pleasures that the park has to offer in its 232 acres. The limestone cliffs, the cave and the
beauty that surrounds it are well worth the price of admission. After summer swimming season, the park is quiet and nature’s beauty is at the forefront. The waterfalls and the confluence with the Pedernales River is a must see. Hamilton Pool is also a nature preserve with a mission to provide habitat for wildlife. There is diverse vegetation throughout the park, which serves as a home to the endangered Golden-Cheeked Warbler and a variety of other birds. The designation as a nature preserve does come along with a few restrictions. Hamilton Pool does not allow pets, fires, fishing, biking or camping in the park. Visitor amenities include a picnic area and composting restrooms by the parking lot.
38 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
The pool trail is a quarter mile in length and includes a series of rock steps descending into the canyon. The trail is rugged and steep. Sturdy footgear is recommended. Visitors with physical disabilities can arrange assistance into the canyon by requesting a ride by preserve staff. The ride takes a visitor into the canyon, but not all the way to the pool, since no vehicle can make it to the pool. Reservations are required to enter Hamilton Pool through October 31, 2018. Guided tours are available October through April on Saturdays at 10 a.m. weather permitting. Call (512) 264-2740 for more information. The park is located at 24300 Hamilton Pool Road. For more visit parks.traviscountytx. gov/find-a-park/hamilton-pool.
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PARKS
Nature & Wildlife WESTCAVE PRESERVE
PHOTO COURTESTY OF WESTCAVE PRESERVE
The highlights of Westcave Preserve are the cave formations and waterfalls that are surrounded by native vegetation on the 75-acre park. “In terms of geological time it is about 100,000 years of erosion from the Pedernales River that has formed a beautiful canyon,” Paul Vickery, education director at Westcave Preserve, said. “When you get to the head, there is this magnificent grotto. You’ve got lush ferns and mosses growing. In the summer months it may be a 20 degree temperature shift from the upper area down to the grotto.” It is worth a trip to take in all that the preserve offers. Tours of Westcave allow visitors to see and believe the wonders of the park. Guided tours are the only way to protect the fragile ecosystem. The goal is to protect, respect, steward and educate the public. “Our guided tour gives you a perspective of how our property has been in recovery mode for the last 40 years,” Vickery said. “We celebrated our 40th year last year. That continued dedication is not only to preserve our current features but to allow future generations to enjoy the beauty of nature and seek inspiration from it.” The gorgeous grotto is only available for view via guided tour that are offered on a first come first serve basis on 40 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
Saturdays and Sundays only. Tours are $5 for ages 4 through 12 and $10 for 13 years old and up. A special family rate of $25 is available for two adults and up to four children, but call ahead first because rates may change this spring. Beyond the guided tours to the grotto are the upland trails that are available Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on weekends from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The onemile loop features a bird blind, prairie restoration project and a glimpse into the natural side of the Texas Hill Country. Run by the non-profit Westcave Outdoors Center, the preserve also features the Warren Skaarren Environmental Learning Center. Part visitor’s center, part classroom, the center is 3,000 square-feet and can accommodate up to 150. The classroom teaches ways to preserve the environment. An aperture in the ceiling allows sunlight to actually show what season it is with a meridian line and sky map embedded in the terrazzo floor. There are also Star Parties, bird walks and wildflower walks along with a host of other events worth enjoying. Take time to visit a place to relax, learn more about the environment and to see the natural wonders of Westcave. The preserve is located at 24814 Hamilton Pool Road. Visit www. westcave.org or call (830) 825-3442 for more information.
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2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 41
PARKS
Explore Outside REIMERS RANCH PARK
The park is so big, we never fill up,” Michael Brewster, Park Supervisor of Reimers Ranch Park, said. There are more than 18 miles of trails throughout the classic Central Texas landscape of Milton Reimers Ranch Park. The pristine parkland, open space and reserve land in western Travis County, just a few minutes from Dripping Springs, offers almost three miles of continuous frontage along the Pedernales River. “Reimers is about 2,400 acres of mostly undeveloped land,” Brewster said. “If you want to get out in nature, there is a lot of backcountry hiking to do. It’s an undeveloped river shoreline, so you can sit on a beach and look at a river. It’s the natural beauty of Reimers Ranch that makes it so popular.” Beyond the space for a typical hiker, there are many popular uses for Reimers Ranch. The local rock-climbing community sees the tall cliffs that protect the edge of the Pedernales River as a world-class destination. Local anglers have come to the river for generations for incredible white bass fishing. The trails are used for both mountain biking and horseback riding (you must bring your own bike or horse). 42 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
Astronomical programs have recently been added to enjoy the beautiful dark skies of Central Texas at the new Reimers Ranch Observatory. There are two large telescopes, one 15 inches in diameter and the second 25 inches in diameter. “For the large telescope, you have to climb up a set of stairs to use it,” Brewster said. “That is how big it is.” The telescopes, along with the dark sky, will open up an array of celestial objects that can’t typically be seen from the typical back yard. “It is a special opportunity for people,” Brewster said. “We also do astronomy education at these programs where we’ll point out constellations and satellites with laser beams while talking to people about space and science.” Reservations are required for the astronomical programs. Park fees are $10 per vehicle on weekdays and $15 on weekends and holidays, seniors 62 and older are free. Only cash is accepted. Pets are allowed but must stay on a leash. Glass bottles and public displays of alcohol are not allowed. The park is open from 7 a.m. to twilight. Camping is not allowed. For more information call (512) 854-7275 or visit parks.traviscountytx.gov/find-a-park/reimers-ranch.
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2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 43
PARKS
Our City Parks DRIPPING SPRINGS PARKS & RECREATION 2018 Life can be hectic at times, but there are still many ways to enjoy the outdoors that Dripping Springs is famous for. Being a part of the Hill Country, the area is full of natural beauty and the city has taken great steps to preserve its wide-open spaces and the area’s unique flora and fauna. Dripping Springs has parks for athletics, bird watching, hiking, swimming, rodeos, picnics and playgrounds for the little ones. There are 270 acres of land in five parks that have been set aside to enjoy whatever your outdoor endeavors.
CHARRO RANCH PARK Charro Ranch Park is a great place to reflect. Birdwatchers have a place to sit undercover and watch birds to gather and feed. Or perhaps hiking and picnics are your family’s choice? The park has picnic tables and both the trails and trees are marked for easy identification. The park can also be used for biking, and cross-country track training. Donated to the city by Lucy Reed Hibbard, it had been in her family’s hands for 50 years and the trails and signs are her touches. The park is maintained by the Hays County Master Naturalists. Pack a lunch, bring your camera, and enjoy.
DRIPPING SPRINGS RANCH PARK
Ranch Parks’ 166,000 square foot facility hosts many events: home & garden shows, rodeos, and livestock shows throughout the year. The Dripping with Taste Wine & Food festival, known as a local favorite, is also held here. The yearly festival highlights local wines, beers, and restaurants in the fall. The versatility of Dripping Springs Ranch Park allows for a large variety of events hosted every weekend. The venue also includes a smaller 12,000 square foot special venue room for corporate or similar organizational meetings. The park also includes outdoor playgrounds, hiking trails, and equestrian trails.
FOUNDERS PARK
Just north of town proper, off Ranch Road 12, is for family time. Day passes are available from the city’s public swimming pool and a covered pavilion can be rented for small events or for use anytime for family picnics. The park also has soccer, football, lacrosse fields, playgrounds and a small hiking trail to enjoy. Once part of the Dripping Springs settler’s compound, the Dr. Pound House Farmstead and Museum is furnished with the family’s original items and time appropriate pieces; it’s the centerpiece of the park. Many events, such as Pioneer Day, that celebrated the town’s history take place here.
SPORTS AND RECREATION PARK
Sports and Recreation Park is a dream location for athletes of all ages. There are baseball/softball fields, which host both youth and adult competitions, along with soccer, basketball and volleyball facilities available. The recreation park has groves of oaks offering shade for picnic tables and walking trails. Concession stands and restrooms are also located in the park.
VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK
Dripping Springs wanted a prominent area of town to honor those who have served in the military, and Veterans Memorial Park was born. Directly at the Triangle—the intersection of U.S. Highway 290, Ranch Road 12, and Mercer Street—Veterans Memorial Park honors all veterans who served. A flag was placed and monuments erected so that the residents will never forget the sacrifices that military men and women, and their families, face every day. There are picnic tables available and the Farmers Market is held there every Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. 44 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
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WEDDING
Wedding Capital of Texas ®
PHOTOS OF MA MAISON WEDDING VENUE BY THE MILL PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTOS OF MA MAISON WEDDING VENUE BY JERRY HAYES PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTOS OF MA MAISON WEDDING VENUE BY THE MILL PHOTOGRAPHY
46 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
From countryside ranches to French colonial chapels and elegant wineries, it’s no wonder why Dripping Springs was named the “Wedding Capital of Texas®.” “Dripping Springs has a wedding venue to fit any style a bride could want,” Pam Owens, president and CEO of the Visitors Bureau, said. “And our local wedding industry has grown so much over the last few years that we have plenty of vendors to choose from to make your wedding perfectly unique.” Boasting over 35 wedding venues within a 15-mile radius, from sophisticated to downright rustic, Dripping Springs is an ideal location for weddings of all shapes and sizes. You will find a relocated 19th century Vietnamese chapel, rustic barns, historic mansions, churches, chapels, and more. The natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country provides the perfect backdrop to any wedding. In addition to discovering their perfect venue, a couple can find everything they need in the Wedding Capital of Texas® to make their dream nuptials into reality. Local wedding accoutrements include ministers, wedding planners, florists, baker, photographers, caterers, and of course, all kinds of romantic honeymoon possibilities. With the local hills hosting over 3,500 weddings a year, even the Texas Legislature agreed, Dripping Springs is the official, “Wedding Capital of Texas®.”
SOAK IN THE EXPERIENCE
PREMIERE HILL COUNTRY VENUE + LUXURY ACCOMODATIONS WWW.CAMPLUCY.COM Jerry Hayes Photography 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 47
Wedding & Event Venues THE ALEXANDER AT CREEK ROAD 6730 Creek Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.thealexanderatcreekroad.com 866-515-1142
DRIFTWOOD ESTATE WINERY 4001 Elder Hill Road Driftwood, TX 78619 www.driftwoodwine.com 512-858-9667
HUDSON’S ON MERCER STREET 381 Mercer St Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.hudsonsonmercer.com 512-894-2075
RANCH AUSTIN WEDDING & EVENT VENUE 10313 Circle Drive Austin, TX 78736 www.ranchaustin.com 512-288-5594
ASANTE LODGING & EVENTS 16580 Fitzhugh Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.stayasante.com 512-829-1046
DRIPPING SPRINGS RANCH PARK 1042 Event Center Drive Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.drippingspringsranchpark.com 512-858-4725
THE LINEY MOON 5401 W Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.thelineymoon.com 512-954-8534
THE SALT LICK RESTAURANT AND PAVILION 18300 FM 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.saltlickbbq.com 512-894-3117
BELLA NIDO BED AND BREAKFAST 23351 FM 150 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.bellanido.com 512-584-5088
THE DUCHMAN FAMILY WINERY 13308 FM 150 West Driftwood, TX 78619 www.duchmanwines.com 512-858-1470 Jeff Ogle info@duchmanwines.com
MA MAISON WEDDING & EVENT VENUE 2550 Bell Springs Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.themamaison.com 512-777-1642
STONE HOUSE RANCH 2750 McGregor Ln, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-993-8005
CAMP LUCY 3509 Creek Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.camplucy.com 512-858-4057 CARRIAGE HILLS RANCH WEDDING VENUE 125 Moore Lane Blanco, TX 78606 www.carriagehillsranch.com 512-222-9821 CREEK HAUS 4015 McGregor Ln, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 512-894-3500 CREEKSIDE WEDDINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS 18315 RR 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.austincreekside.com 512-894-3218 DEEP EDDY VODKA DISTILLERY 2250 E. Hwy. 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.deepeddyvodka.com 512-994-3534 DR. POUND HISTORICAL FARMSTEAD 570 Founders Park Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.drpoundhistoricalfarmstead.org 512-858-2030
FALL CREEK VINEYARDS AT DRIFTWOOD 18059A FM 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 www.fcv.com 512-858-4050 FRIENDSHIP CREEKSIDE FELLOWSHIP 14455 FM 1826 Austin, TX 78737 www.friendshipcreekside.com 512-288-2009 GRACELAND OAKS EVENT CENTER 8907 Circle Dr Austin, TX 78736 www.gracelandoaks.com 512-444-2001 HAWK’S SHADOW WINERY 7500 McGregor Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.HawksShadow.com 866-551-9463 HILL COUNTRY CASITAS 7400 McGregor Lane Dripping Srprings, TX 78620 www.hillcountrycasitas.com 512-809-4958 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS - DRIPPING SPRINGS 333 Hwy 290 E, Suite 500 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.hiexpress.com 512-858-0280
MEMORY LANE EVENT CENTER 403 KC Memory Lane Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.memorylaneweddings.com 512-894-0700 MERCER STREET DANCEHALL 332 Mercer St Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.mercerstreetdancehall.com 512-858-4314 MT. GAINOR INN 2390 Prochnow Road Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.mtgainorinn.com 512-858-0982 OLD GLORY RANCH 3633 River Road Wimberley, TX 78676 www.oldgloryranch.com 512-847-3646 PECAN SPRINGS RANCH EVENT VENUE 10601 B Derecho Austin, TX 78737 www.pecanspringsranch.com 512-632-1046 PROSPECT HOUSE 12745 Silver Creek Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.prospecthousetx.com 512-850-2884
SUMMERLAND AT ONION CREEK 19022 FM 150 W Driftwood, TX 78619 www.Summerlandonioncreek.com 512-779-2499 THE TERRACE CLUB 2600 E Hwy 290 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.theterraceclub.com 512-894-4009 TEXAS HILL COUNTRY OLIVE CO. 2530 W Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.texashillcountryoliveco.com 512-607-6512 TREATY OAK BREWING AND DISTILLING CO. 16604 Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.treatyoakdistilling.com 512-599-0335 TRUDY’S FOUR STAR 13059 Four Star Blvd Austin, TX 78737 www.trudysfourstar.com 512-301-4300 VISTA WEST RANCH 4505 McGregor Ln. Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.vistawestranch.com 512-894-3500
2018 Dripping Springs Chamber Welcome Guide • 7
48 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
Transporation
BY HOPE BOLTON
EASY, STRESS-FREE WAYS TO ENJOY DRIPPING SPRINGS ATTRACTIONS Whether you’re planning a girl’s trip to the Hill Country, visiting one of the many breweries, wineries or distilleries, or experiencing a unique culinary workshop, sit back and relax while someone else handles the driving. Perfect for cruising the countryside, the options for transportation in Dripping Springs are ideal for exploring, discovering and having an unforgettable experience whether you’re a group of two or 40. Choose from vintage cars, limousines, or passenger vans to make your stay in Dripping Springs one not soon to be forgotten: Whatever transportation option you choose, you are sure to experience world class customer service, gorgeous views, and unforgettable memories.
DISCOVER TEXAS WINE TOURS, LLC Focuses on providing excellent service to Hill Country wineries. Discover Texas Wine Tours can accommodate groups of two and up to 40. www.discovertexaswine.com • (512) 656-8299
DRIPPERY TOURS
Offer frequent stops at the local distilleries, breweries, or wineries of your choice. Drippery Tours offers transportation for weddings, celebrations, tours and more.
PHOTO COURTESTY OF SLOWPOKES WINERY TOURS
www.dripperytours.com • (512) 870- 7833
ELEGANT LIMOUSINE HILL COUNTRY TOURS
A full-service transportation company that only utilizes professional certified chauffeurs. www.elegantride.us • (512) 847-6232
SLOWPOKES WINERY TOURS
Provide memorable outings to the Hill Country wine region. Choose from a Ford Model T or a more modern option like a Mercedes 14- passenger van. www.slowpokeswinerytours.com • (800) 956-7776
TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CHARTER & LIMOUSINE
Safe and comfortable transportation to and from events of all kinds including corporate, weddings, rehearsal dinners, team building, birthdays and anniversaries. www.hillcountryshuttleservice.com • (512) 656-8299 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 49
EVENTS
PHOTO BY JANICE SMITH
Dripping
WITH TASTE
SEPTEMBER 8, 2018 Dripping Springs Ranch Park Noon - 6 p.m. www.drippingwithtaste.com
Come out and sample the largest assortment of Texas wines, craft beers, gourmet foods and spirits available under one roof, at the 11th Annual Dripping with Taste Wine & Food Festival. Sponsored by the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau, the festival was created to showcase the growing number of local vineyards, breweries, distilleries and food fares peppering the area. That number continues to grow and so does the festival. This year’s festival includes over 100 “tasteful” vendors and an estimated
2,500 food and wine enthusiasts. One of the more exciting additions to the festival has been the inclusion of distilleries. Now, rum, vodka, gin and even a little whiskey have joined the party. Many of them are made right here in the area. But, the fun doesn’t stop at the tasting. The lineup includes cooking demonstrations as well as a wine, beer and a distilled spirits demo, all using some of the products featured at the festival. Plus there’s 11 musical acts, specialty vendors selling their wares, a free
photo booth and lots more. There’s even actual grape stomping and you can get a t-shirt to prove you did it! “This isn’t your typical, snooty, wear a tie, spit out good booze festival. It is a true celebration of the Texas Hill Country and the flavor of Texas,” says nine-year festival attendee, Stephanie Holtzendorf. So mark your calendar and plan to visit us for this great Hill Country tradition and have your wish granted of sampling all of Dripping Springs in one sitting.
OCTOBER 19-21, 2018 Downtown Dripping Springs
Songwriters
FESTIVAL The Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival, this year from October 19 – 21, is now a local tradition. The weather cools down, and the music fans turn out in downtown Dripping Springs to enjoy just about any type of acoustic music you would want. If you don’t like what you’re hearing, wait a couple of minutes and somebody else will be playing
something completely different. The Saturday night headliner show is a ticketed event, but the daytime shows are free. Each venue hosts four individual songwriters for an hour and a half. Each songwriter does one of their own songs before passing it off to the next songwriter. The process is called a writer round or song swap, which allows everyone a chance to sing while giving each songwriter the ability to pick their best tunes. The festival starts on Friday at noon and concludes on Sunday afternoon with a wrap party at The Barber Shop. The songwriters come from all over – even as far as Australia. Dripping Springs residents and local B&Bs house the songwriters. Although not paid, the songwriters are fed and have a roof over their heads
50 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
while they are here. The venues include Acopon Brewing, The Barber Shop, Hudson’s on Mercer, Mazama Coffee Co., Mercer Street Dancehall and Sidecar Tasting Room on Old Fitzhugh Road. See over 45 musicians during the Dripping Springs Songwriter’s Festival and who knows? Maybe you’ll enjoy a future number one hit. More information www. drippingspringssongwriters festival.com
A Community thrift Shop Now with 3 wonderful stores:
Main Store
CLOTHING | HOUSEWARES | FURNITURE
Builder’s Barn
APPLIANCES | LIGHTING | PLUMBING CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
Dobie House
BOUTIQUE | ANTIQUES | VINTAGE
and much much more!
HOURS
Tues & Wed | Fri & Sat 9am - 2pm Thurs 9am - 7pm 450 RIVER ROAD WIMBERLEY | 512-847-5400 Wimberley Village www.wimberleyvillagethriftstore.org Thrift Store 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 51
EVENTS
FARMERS MARKET: Fresh produce, music & more!
BY LAUREL ROBERTSON PHOTOS BY CITY OF DRIPPING SPRINGS
The Dripping Springs Farmers Market comes fully alive in spring and summer with a new season of produce, vendors, shoppers, music and fun. Tomato Round-Up on June 23rd will be the market’s biggest festival of the year. As spring unfolds into summer, freshly harvested spring greens, plump strawberries, tree-ripened peaches, and crisp green beans and give way to a bounty of summer tomatoes, melons, peppers and squash, and okra. Vendors flock to market with new varieties of treats (fruit popsicles, fresh squeezed juices, caramel corn) and ranchers
offer a wide assortment of meats (grassfed beef, lamb, bison, pork and chicken). Grow-your-own types can find the best varieties of starter plants for Hill Country gardens, hand-selected and grown by people who know best. There’s more fun on the market’s green grass with live music from inspired musicians and lots of space for kids and dogs to romp. Plenty of picnic tables in the shade of towering trees offer spots for enjoying the ready-made food, glasses of locally made wine and friends gathering every Wednesday afternoon.
DRIPPING SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET – EVERY WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON 3-6 p.m. Rain or Shine
Fair & Rodeo BY ALYSSA WEINSTEIN PHOTO BY DAVE WILSON
The annual Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo has showcased the best rodeo skills, live music, food and drinks, and entertainment to the community for the past six years. Enjoyable for anyone of all ages, bring your family to enjoy the arts and crafts vendors, kid activities and more throughout the three-day event. The rodeo will also include bareback bronc riding, saddle bronc, bull riding, barrel racing, roping, and rodeo clowns. The event will kickoff on Friday evening at 8 p.m. with the Cowboy’s Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) rodeo. Then on Saturday, a variety 52 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
of events will be hosted throughout the day including a free cowboy breakfast in the morning, a mutton bustin’ shootout in the afternoon, and a performance from The Innocents at night. Most years, the celebration continues downtown as local businesses involve the nightlife scene. Ending the Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo on Sunday, Cowboy Church will start the day off early in the morning and will be followed with the Dripping Springs Summer Sizzler Livestock Show. 7th annual Dripping Springs Fair Rodeo Dripping Springs Ranch Park July 27-29 drippingspringsfairandrodeo.com
CHANGE
Travis, Hays & Bastrop counties
MORE THAN YOUR LUCK.
OFFICIAL 501 (C)(3) NONPROFIT
When you join the Springs Family Y, you’ll find opportunities that will help you bond as a family, develop new skills, and change you in ways that you never imagined.
Springs Family Y 512.894.3309 l AustinYMCA.org 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 53
EVENTS
Founders Day
FESTIVAL
BY ALYSSA WEINSTEIN PHOTO BY DAVE WILSON
Founders Day is an annual three-day festival that celebrates the founding of the Dripping Springs community. Every April, locals and visitors look forward to the wide variety of festivities that are offered including the Mighty Thomas Carnival, delicious food, barbecue cook-off competitions, live music, and the more than 150 arts and craft booths and vendors that line-up along Mercer Street. The first day of the festival kicks-off on a Friday evening with a parade made up of the small businesses, organizations and schools of Dripping Springs as they ride through downtown. Locals line Mercer Street in their lawn chairs with food, drinks, and empty bags ready to catch goodies and candy thrown from the parade. Afterwards, the Mighty Thomas Carnival is ready for the kids to enjoy
tomat o
Homegrown tomato fans - the wait is almost over! On Saturday, June 23, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dripping Springs sixth annual Tomato Round Up will gather together the best homegrown tomatoes in Hays County for everyone’s tasting pleasure. All are invited to compete for prizes and bragging rights for the rest of the year. The Tomato Round Up will be at Veteran’s Park in Dripping Springs -between Highway 290, Ranch Road 12 and Mercer Street (also the site of the regular Dripping Springs Farmers Market each Wednesday afternoon). At the Saturday morning Tomato Round Up, there will
be a tasting tent, prepared food to eat, live music to enjoy, games to play and information from the Hays County Master Gardeners on how to grow the best tomatoes in Central Texas. The stars of the show will be the amazing array of garden-fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes – from the smallest, sweetest cherries to the largest, juiciest slicers, to the richest, most flavorful heirlooms. Gardeners from all over the Dripping Springs area are invited to bring their finest tomatoes to compete for prizes in five categories: cherry, yellow, heirloom, red slicers and Romas. The public can taste all the entries
54 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
and the booths and vendors are ready for the parents to stroll by and shop. On Saturday and Sunday, spend the day at the carnival, listen to live music and try all the different food options. This year’s 31st Annual Founders day will take place in downtown Dripping Springs on April 27-29. For more information visit cityofdrippingsprings. com/page/foundersday.home. The festival is hosted by the City of Dripping Springs, as well as the Founders Day Commission, which includes representatives from different local organizations. The proceeds collected from the three-day event are contributed back to the community, and benefit local non-profit organizations, parks, churches, schools, youth groups and charities.
round-up
and vote for their favorites. The Tomato Round Up is sponsored annually by the City of Dripping Springs and organized by its Farmers Market Committee. Generous business and individual sponsorships help make the event possible. Sponsors,
judges and volunteers for this year’s event are currently being sought. For more information, visit the city’s website, www. cityofdrippingsprings.com, and click on the “Farmers Market” tab, or call the city at (512) 858- 4725.
PHOTO BY DIANA BLACK
h s fre
native
Locally owned and operated. Fast • Expert • Courteous
Scheduled maintainance for auto and light trucks.
State safety inspections for: ❱ Autos ❱ Light Trucks ❱ Motorcycles We replace lights, wiper blades transmission fluid, engine coolant, batteries, etc Hours: Monday -Friday 8 - 6 Saturday 8 - 3 Like us in:
&
1160 Hwy 290 E. Dripping Springs, TX • 512-858-1420 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 55
Dripping Springs Events MARCH
MAY
JUNE
JULY
HOME & GARDEN SHOW Mar 17-18 DS Ranch Park Rotary Club of Dripping Springs (Facebook)
HERPS REPTILE SHOW May 4-5 DS Ranch Park www.herpshow.net
RED ARENA ROUNDUP Jun 2 DS Ranch Park redarena.org/2016-round-up.html
WILDFLOWER SPRING MKT ARTISAN & CRAFT FAIRE Mar 24-25 DS Ranch Park www.texasmarketguide.com
HOME GROWN 5K & FESTIVAL May 12 Caliterra Facebook
DSRP RIDING SERIES JUMPER SHOW Jun 9-10 DS Ranch Park www.dsrpridingseries.com
FIRE IN THE SKY 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION Jul 4 DS Ranch Park www.isaacfortexas.com
RIDING ON A DREAM BULL RIDE May 19 DS Ranch Park www.facebook.com/baileykay.hutson
CAMP BEN MCCULLOCH REUNION Jun 15-22 Camp Ben McCulloch Park www.campben.com
MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE May 26 Veterans Triangle Park www.post290tx.com
TOMATO ROUNDUP Jun 23 Veteran’s Triangle Park www.cityofdrippingsprings.com
APRIL DUCKS UNLIMITED Annual Banquet Apr 14 Hog Heaven www.ducks.org/texas/events REDBUD ARTISAN MARKET Apr 21-23 DS Ranch Park Facebook 29TH ANNUAL FOUNDERS DAY FESTIVAL Apr 27-29 Historical Mercer Street www.foundersdayfestival.com
DS FAIR & RODEO Jul 27-29 DS Ranch Park drippingspringsfairandrodeo.com
AUGUST CAQHA QUARTER HORSE SHOW Aug 4 DS Ranch Park www.caqha.com
SEPTEMBER 11TH ANNUAL DRIPPING WITH TASTE FESTIVAL Sep 8 DS Ranch Park www.drippingwithtaste.com
Together we’re better.
At Capital Farm Credit, your goals are our goals. We take pride in helping Texans grow and thrive.
austin
2018 Dripping Springs Chamber Welcome Guide • 9
512.892.4425
5900 Southwest Parkway, Suite 501
capitalfarmcredit.com NMLS493828
56 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
Kathleen Stinson, MD, FAAP Sheila Boes, MD Annessa Van de Walle, FPNP
BARBARA GREMILLION
512-894-3737
www.dspediatrics.com
LUXURY PROPERTY SPECIALIST
331 Sportsplex Dr. STE C, Dripping Springs, TX (across from Walnut Springs Elementary school)
Specializing in Residential & Ranch Real Estate 5-Star Real Estate Professional Texas Monthly 2013-2018
Realtor.com Award of Excellence for Online Marketing Coldwell Banker International Awards for Production
512.775.2904 www.barbaragremillion.com barbara@barbaragremillion.com Coldwell Banker United Realtors® 609 Castle Ridge Rd Suite 440 Austin, TX 78746
Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS® are independent contractor agents and are not employees of the Company. ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered service mark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC.
Bel Canto Farms is pleased to welcome Firm Foundations Equine Assisted Psychotherapy to our home at 4205 Lone Man Mountain Rd.
L & L Automotive is the premier local auto repair shop in Dripping Springs. We are family owned and operated and a certified NAPA AutoCare Center serving top quality car maintenance, tire services, and auto repair in Dripping Springs, TX Since 1999.
firmfoundationstx.com
Guaranteed Automotive Services by ASE-Certified Auto Repair Technicians The talented auto mechanics at L & L Automotive are highly trained ASE-certified technicians and have been tested and certified by the Institute of Automotive Service Excellence.
Wimberley, TX 78676 (512) 797-1178
20 7 1
(512) 894-4486 3987 E Highway 290 | Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Open M-F: 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 57
DRIFTWOOD
Driftwood SALT LICK
PHOTOS COURTESTY OF SALT LICK BBQ
58 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
STORIED FIREARMS Turn your guns into CASH Buy • Sell • Trade Shop ONLINE at our new online store www.StoriedFirearms.com
“The Austin gun store without an attitude”
Located in the old Dumas Train Depot 9300 U.S. Hwy 290 West • 512-394-0125 Around Austin, one iconic BBQ’s name stands out and is a favorite with tourists and locals alike. Scott Roberts and his wife are owners of Salt Lick, the famed barbecue joint that his father started in 1967. There isn’t a type of meat that isn’t served at Salt Lick. Stop in and try a slab of brisket, pork ribs, chicken, beef ribs, turkey, pulled pork and prime rib. The restaurant is famous for barbecuing its meat over an open flame in the middle of the dinning area. The Salt Lick has grown into one of the biggest restaurants around as it packs in hundreds every night of the week, but this property still tells a small town love story. Thurman Roberts, Sr. and his wife Hisako met while he was stationed in Hawaii. They married and moved to Driftwood. It was there that Hisako’s Japanese heritage came into play. The BBQ sauce was perfected and combined perfectly with Thurman’s old fashioned, slow smoking method learned from his grandmother. Fifty years later, the third generation BBQ is better than ever. But great meat isn’t all they serve. The restaurant is now home to Salt Lick Cellars, which opened a tasting room on property in 2009. Many fine wines are available, but some of the best award-winning wines are made from the grapes grown right on the property. It is an ever-growing endeavor. The Salt Lick is a family style and cash-only establishment, it is also a lot of fun. This is one place not to be missed if you are a visitor, as the locals all know how good the BBQ and fixin’s truly are.
saltlickbbq.com 512-858-4959
805 Las Cimas Parkway, Suite 450 Austin, Tx 78746 O512.422.1782 512.347.1500 O512.347.1508 Austin Business Top Producer 2011, 2012 & 2013 Irene Green NMLS #536688 Senior Vice President
• Texas Monthly • Austin Magazine • Best of Dripping Springs
irene.green@southwestbank.com
It’s Your Special Day!
A wedding ceremony does not need to be elaborate to be memorable! At Heaven-Pathways-Earth it is our goal to help you make your wedding a very special day. Reverend Dr. Sheryl T. Martin Wedding Officiant Avaliable Services:
• Unity Candle Ceremony • Unity Sand Ceremony • Spiritual Counseling/Pre-wedding Counseling • Rehearsal • Photography • Venue
Proud to serve the LGBTQIAP+ Community
(559) 779-5510 www.heavenpathwaysearth.com/ 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 59
DRIFTWOOD
Wine Lovers
DUCHMAN FAMILY WINERY
PHOTO BY JERRY HAYES PHOTOGRAPHY
Duchman Family Winery is one of the most beautiful wineries in Texas. Nestled in the Texas Hill Country near Driftwood, the stone architecture and rolling hills elicit the feel of an elegant winery in Italy. In fact, HGTV listed the winery as one of the 20 most picturesque in the country. The look and feel of Italy was intentional as founders Lisa and Stan Duchman love unique Italian grape varieties, which have inspired some of the wine varieties like the
Vermentino, Sangiovese and Dolcetto. But make no mistake this winery is truly Texan. Duchman uses 100 percent Texas grapes to make the wines with the majority of its fruit acquired from the Texas High Plains where cooler temperatures and climate are ideal for producing Italian grape varieties and from nearby Salt Lick Vineyards. All of the winery’s current releases can be sampled and purchased at the winery’s tasting room and the estate’s beautiful Italianate villa and grounds
60 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
are open to visitors who can enjoy their wines with a picnic lunch. Stop by and have a taste at picnic tables under the shade of oak trees. The tasting room is open seven days a week. Duchman Family Winery 13308 FM 150 Driftwood, TX 78619 duchmanwinery.com (512) 858-1470 Tues–Sun 11am–8pm Mon 12pm–6pm
FALL CREEK VINEYARDS Fall Creek Vineyards may be new to the Driftwood area, but it is far from a new winery. The first location was originally opened in 1975 in Tow, Texas making Fall Creek one of the first wineries in the state. In 2016, the winery opened a second location in Driftwood, because they found something special in the soil. “What we have found is that some of the best soils in Texas, as good as anywhere in the world, are here in this Onion Creek Valley,” Ed Auler, owner of Fall Creek, said. “We found that the soils in the Salt Lick Vineyards (directly across the street from Fall Creek) are producing grapes that are making wines that are getting awards in international competition… What we are finding is truly world class wines are coming out of these soils.” The tasting room in Dripping Springs is still getting its feet wet when it comes to growing grapes, but the wine on hand is already award-winning. Fall Creek’s winemaker Sergio Cuadra came to the company four years ago. “He didn’t come here to make great Texas wines,” Auler said. “He came
here to make great wines that just happened to come from Texas.” Fall Creek Vineyards won Top Texas Winery at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in 2016 and won the Top Texas White Wine in 2017. Apparently, the international wine community agrees that the wines are world class. In 2016, Fall Creek Vineyards GSM Salt Lick Vineyards 2014 wine was awarded a double gold medal at the San Francisco International Wine Competition, one of the most prestigious competitions and awards in the world. Three other Fall Creek Wines received gold and silver medals at the competition.
While the main Fall Creek Winery is still in Tow, the new tasting room in Driftwood, just outside of Dripping Springs, is a treat to see. “We have a gorgeous property,” Brewster said. “They purchased a home and converted into a tasting hall. So it has an elegant and cozy environment. It feels like you are drinking wine in your own perfect home, and you have the opportunity to do that over looking vineyards and the Texas Hill Country. Also, you are across the street from one of the top barbecue restaurants in the state (Salt Lick) so you have the wafting smell of barbecue coming across the road.”
Fall Creek Vineyards 18059A FM 1826 Driftwood, TX 78619 Mon–Sat 11 am–7 pm Sun 12–5 pm (512) 858-4050 fcv.com
DRIFTWOOD ESTATES WINERY Get lost in the view
Driftwood Estate Winery driftwoodvineyards.com (512) 692-6229
PHOTO BY ROBERT ANSCHUTZ
If you are touring the Hill Country, Driftwood has a few sights to see and it’s only 10 minutes from dowtown Dripping Springs. The old filling station across from the cemetery, and the historical cemetery are both worth a peek. But traveling on you’ll run into Driftwood Estate Wineries, a winery that boasts a million dollar view. Inside the tasting room or outside on the grounds, everything is relaxed,
especially when having a glass of awardwinning wine. Their Orange Muscat, using 100% Texas grapes received the gold medal from the Houston International Wine Competition, and their 2017 Viognier received a gold medal from the San Francisco International Wine Competition, The 18-acre property sits high atop a bluff on the edge of the Texas Hill Country and looks out over the
vineyards several hundred feet below. It is a great place to have a picnic lunch and to imbibe in an award-winning wine from Driftwood Estates. The family-owned winery produces a large variety of wines that are as good as the view. Specializing in Mediterranean varietals such as Syrah, Viognier, Sangiovese, Muscat as well as Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, they try to use Texas grapes only. The staff and owners are very knowledgeable and their service is top notch. The tasting room is open everyday except major holidays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Driftwood Estate Winery is located between Wimberley and Dripping Springs just off Ranch Road 12 at 4001 Elder Hill Road. They can be found online at www.driftwoodvineyards. com or by phone at (512) 692-6229.
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 61
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62 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer
MAKE A STATEMENT
VINTAGE OAKS
CANYONS AT SCENIC LOOP
TEXAS CASUAL COTTAGES
FROM THE $450s without lot
FROM THE $500s without lot
FROM THE $300s without land
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LISA BAZINET, Custom Sales 6555 Ranch Road 12 | San Marcos 78666 512 806 7946 Lisa.Bazinet@PartnersInBuilding.com
TEXAS HILL COUNTRY LUXURY, CUSTOM HOMES AND COTTAGES ON YOUR LOT OR YOUR LAND from the $300s without lot
2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer • 63
NEWEST HOTEL IN DRIPPING SPRINGS!
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Spacious Rooms Meeting Room & Board Room Available Complimentary Full Hot Breakfast Fitness Room & Guest Laundry on Site
333 Hwy 290 E, Suite#500 Dripping Springs TX 78620 512-858-0280 hiexp78620@gmail.com 64 • 2018 Dripping Springs Visitor’s Guide Spring & Summer