Issuu

CONVENIENT, ADVANCED MAMMOGRAMS FOR YOU

Taking care of your breast health is important. And early detection starts with your annual mammogram. That’s why Houston Methodist Breast Care Centers offer:

• Innovative imaging technology

• Board-certiﬁed breast radiologists

• Online scheduling available when you are

• 13 convenient locations across Houston

Using cutting-edge breast screenings, such as 3D mammograms, to detect even the smallest lumps with accuracy, our breast experts have decades of experience and are all here to support you.

That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it. For you.

*Conroe offers screening mammograms only

houstonmethodist.org/mammogram 346.356.PINK (7465)

From anywhere in Houston, at any time of the day or night, you can access your account, move money, or open a new account.

To open a new account online, you will need the following:

• Driver’s License – you will be asked to take a photo of both the front and back with your cell phone

• You will be asked to take a selfie with your cell phone to show proof of life

• Routing number of the source bank (bank your initial deposit is coming from)

• Account number at the source bank

• Username and password for your online banking account at the source bank.

NOTE: you will be prompted for a multi-factor verification code from your source bank for security purposes.

The Time We Have

Life rarely unfolds exactly the way we planned. Seasons change, opportunities shift, doors open and close, and sometimes the path forward looks nothing like the one we imagined. But I have learned there is still purpose in showing up fully, even when the outcome is uncertain. Some of the most meaningful moments in life are not found in perfection, but in the effort, heart, and resilience.

This issue reminded me how important it is to stay engaged in the life we are living right now. To stop waiting for the perfect timing, the perfect situation, or the perfect version of ourselves before we pursue what makes us feel alive. Whether in competition, business, health, travel, family, or community, there is something powerful about people who continue to give their best despite the fear of the unknown.

On the cover, the Porter High School Theater Department reminds us what it means to step fearlessly into the spotlight of unfamiliar worlds by embracing creativity and storytelling with imagination. Inside the issue, The Valdez Foundation reflects the life-changing power of education, Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District uncovers the hidden world beneath our feet and the importance of protecting it, Meow Wolf Houston invites readers into immersive color and an adventure unlike anything else, and our Fredericksburg story invites readers to explore the beauty down the road.

Adventure does not always begin with confidence. Exploration sometimes begins with uncertainty. The people and stories in this issue remind us that life becomes richer when we stop sitting on the sidelines. Discovery is not always about distance traveled. Sometimes it is simply about saying yes to opportunity, however it presents itself. Whether it is stepping onto a field, boarding a plane, chasing a new goal, or allowing yourself to experience the world around you, the greatest adventures often begin the moment we decide to fully live the life in front of us.

Too often, we convince ourselves that there will always be more time. But the truth is that life moves quickly, and every moment shapes us. Sometimes the greatest thing we can do is simply say okay, allow the experience, face the challenge, welcome the unknown, and trust that something meaningful awaits on the other side.

To the wanderers, the dreamers, and those still searching for what’s next,

RORI ORTIZ, EDITOR

@EASTMONTGOMERYCITYLIFESTYLE

July 2026

PUBLISHER

Nicole Cook | nicole.cook@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Rori Ortiz | rori.ortiz@citylifestyle.com

AREA DIRECTOR

Mike Cook | mike.cook@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kelsey Connell | kelsey.connell@citylifestyle.com

MARKET AREA COORDINATOR

Kelly Richard | kelly.richard@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rori Ortiz | rori.ortiz@citylifestyle.com

Laura SanchezQuan | laura.sanchezquan@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District | @lonestargcd, Hagler Plumbing | @HaglerPlumbing

R&R Book Publishers LLC | @randr.productions @lakehoustoncitylifestyle & @eastmontgomerycitylifestyle

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Proverbs 3:5-6

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Keynote speaker Shannon Carr founded Hopeful Hearts Ministry, supporting trauma survivors through faith-based healing initiatives. 2: Attendees pose for a photo during the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber’s Leading Ladies Luncheon, celebrating women in business, leadership, and community impact. 3: Lauren Cash, Director of Brand Strategy and Community Engagement for Elite Hospital, won a centerpiece bouquet giveaway. 4: Tiffany Stafford, HAAM Chief Development and Strategy Officer, was among the attendees awarded a floral centerpiece. 5: Tracie Kamenoff, GEMCC Director of Events and Marketing, led the Greater EMC Chamber’s Leading Ladies Luncheon. 6: Kelsey Connell of City Lifestyle and Nicole Jaimes of Chachi’s Next Door attended the luncheon event. 7: The Community Resource Credit Union team attended the luncheon, supporting local women in leadership and business.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

TYLER JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) joins GEMCC

MADD is not just continuing the fight against impaired driving; we’re committed to ending impaired driving for good. Join us to create a safer future for all. Impaired Driving Ends Here. 24/7 victim services are available at 1-877-623-3435

done right! For dependable plumbing services backed by experience and professionalism, turn to Hagler Plumbing. Proudly serving the community with honest workmanship and reliable

Photography by Tyler Jones Photography

solutions, their team handles everything from routine repairs to larger plumbing projects with care and efficiency. Known for exceptional customer service and attention to detail, Hagler Plumbing is committed to helping homeowners and businesses keep their systems running smoothly while delivering trustworthy service customers can count on every day.

Pout Medspa Angela LaVel le

Transform your home with stylish, affordable furniture from

Skero’s Furniture!

Discover quality furnishings and personalized service at Skero's Furniture, a trusted local destination for beautiful home décor and furniture. From comfortable living room sets to stylish bedroom and dining pieces, Skero’s Furniture offers options to fit every style and budget. Their knowledgeable team is dedicated to helping customers create welcoming spaces they love while providing a friendly shopping experience that keeps the community coming back for generations.

I Help Enhance Your Natural Beauty So You Can Put Your Best Face Forward.

Hey there! Let me introduce myself. My name is Angela Hare. I am a dual certified Nurse Practitioner and owner and operator of Pout Medspa Angela LaVelle. I offer white glove aesthetic services in convenient locations, as well as the privacy of your own home. I have been in the medical field for over 16 years, with a background in cardiology, intensive care, and hospital medicine. My passion has always been, and continues to be, to help people. I started Pout Medspa Angela LaVelle two years ago and have had so much fun getting to know all of my patients. I am a wife, mother to two beautiful girls, and workout enthusiast. I enjoy being outdoors, trying new foods, concerts, and traveling.

Interested in setting up a private party? Private parties require 5 or more patients receiving services at the party price. The host of the party receives 10% of total party sales towards their services. So grab your friends and book your party today! These are always a fun ‘Girls Night In’ event.

GET IN TOUCH AT

Photography by Hagler Plumbing

Photography by Tyler Jones Photography

Ayla Dalyan, and her UIL qualifying theatrical designs for hair and makeup

ARTICLE BY RORI ORTIZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HUNG L. TRUONG & GRANT PAPAS

A SPOTLIGHT INTO NEW WORLDS

How a Theater Arts Department helps students explore art at center stage

Porter High School theater and the broader growth of the fine arts within the New Caney Independent School District reflect a department that intentionally creates opportunities for students to explore storytelling, leadership, collaboration, and creativity. Theater exists at the intersection of choir, dance, orchestra, visual arts, and performance, bringing students together through shared experiences that communicate hope, grief, joy, defiance, and humor. Students have the opportunity to experience humanity and impart those stories through creation and performance.

Inside Porter HS productions, students are not simply memorizing lines or stepping onto a stage. They are building worlds, interpreting ideas, problem-solving, and learning how art connects people. They are under the guidance of educators who have worked to expand the range of what theater can offer and look like within the district. This season marked another major year for Porter HS with productions of Frankenstein, Chicago, and the University Interscholastic League One-Act Play production of Mother Courage. The department also celebrated three consecutive years of advancing to the regional level in UIL competition, continuing a dramatic shift in the program’s visibility and overall achievements.

Four years ago, the Porter HS theater department experienced repeated leadership turnover and limited progress in competition. Since then, the program has steadily grown alongside increased district investment in theater and fine arts opportunities throughout New Caney ISD. Former Theater Director David Soward, who also serves as the district’s theater facilitator, and fellow director Mr. Kelly have helped shape a program built around both artistic standards and student ownership. Porter’s productions challenge students to engage deeply with

the material beyond performance itself. Frankenstein encouraged students to examine ethics and life. Chicago explored the cost of celebrity and the road to redemption. Mother Courage pushed students to confront the realities of survival during war and the hardships faced by ordinary people caught within the conflict.

That exploration carries into every technical and artistic aspect of production. Students participate in every stage from initial planning to full production closeout. That includes set construction, lighting design, choreography, sound, stage management, costumes, makeup, and other creative elements. Faculty mentors guide the process, ask questions, and help students identify problems while refining their ideas into finished

work. The department is intentionally as hands-off as possible to emphasize student-driven creativity while maintaining professional expectations for quality and execution. One of the department’s major milestones this year came when student Ayla Dalyan became the first student in New Caney ISD history to qualify for state in UIL theatrical design for hair and makeup design. The accomplishment represented more than individual achievement. It reflected years of building opportunities within technical theater and encouraging students to step into creative leadership roles. Porter’s productions have increasingly become collaborative, showcasing the involvement of students from multiple fine arts disciplines, including musicians, dancers, visual artists, and performers, all contributing to a shared artistic vision.

“Our theater program challenges the kids to explore their world in ways that they may not have imagined before,” Former Theater Director David Soward shared.

The growth of the theater department has also helped reshape how fine arts are viewed within the district and the surrounding community. Students who once questioned whether they belonged alongside larger, more established programs now enter competitions expecting to perform at a high level. Younger middle school students increasingly attend performances and seek out the program before they even reach high school. Community audiences have expanded beyond parents and relatives to include residents attending productions simply because of the reputation of Porter HS. The theater department has built ambitious storytelling and quality performances through production after production. Behind that momentum is extensive preparation and collaboration among educators and district leadership, all working in the background to lay the foundation well before the school year starts and pave the way for future student success. Mr. Soward described productions being researched and discussed months, sometimes nearly a year, in advance as directors and administrators work through budgets, technical needs, scheduling, and long-term planning. Former Director of Fine Arts Frank Chuter helped establish an early vision for expanding theater and fine arts opportunities across the district. Current Director of Fine Arts Brian Moran has continued supporting program growth throughout the district. It requires advocacy and operational support, and programs across the district are seeing the impact reflected on their campuses. For Porter HS, Principals Caesar Condarco and Bart Miller have consistently supported productions, competitions, and student achievement, often attending performances and UIL events alongside students and staff. While regional appearances and UIL recognition are welcome and continue to bring visibility to the program, the department’s culture of cultivating independent, creative students may be its greatest success. Porter HS theater students not only champion their classmates’ work but also support fine arts programs at other schools and districts. The program believes in celebrating others’ accomplishments and recognizing others’ success, which continues to challenge students creatively in return. The program, along with those associated with it, hopes more residents and community members will attend upcoming productions because performing in front of a full auditorium reminds students that their work matters and that their community is invested in what they are building. The Porter HS stage has become more than a performance space. It has become a place where students are allowed to explore a deeper understanding of both art and the world around them.

An Invisible World Beneath Your Feet

Rain Barrels, Purple Pipes & Water Heroes make groundwater a hidden-world to explore

ARTICLE BY RORI ORTIZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENDA LOZANO, BURDITT LAND|PLACE, LONE STAR GROUNDWATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT, AND R&R PUBLISHING

Our groundwater, which lives in an invisible world underneath us, is one of Texas’ most important resources, and it impacts everything from growth and housing to infrastructure and sustainability. Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District is working to help residents, students, businesses, and neighborhoods think differently about groundwater, moving it from out of sight to the front of mind. Long before a crisis hits, the District has focused on planning to help Montgomery County prepare for the future.

Most people rarely think about groundwater. Water just arrives as soon as they turn on a faucet, sprinklers activate automatically, and pipe systems quietly run in the background of everyday life.

Yet behind walls, beneath concrete, neighborhoods, roads, golf courses, schools, and businesses is an enormous hidden system that supports nearly every part of everyday life. The District’s work centers around protecting the unseen resource while balancing the realities of one of the fastest-growing regions in the state.

Groundwater Conservation Districts exist to conserve, preserve, and protect aquifers and underground water resources. In Montgomery County, the District was created in 2001 through approval by local voters as development in the area accelerated. Since then, growth has transformed the county, creating new water demands. Sarah Kouba, General Manager of the District, explained that groundwater remains the cleanest and easiest-to-access source of water for many communities, making it essential.

The challenge is that groundwater is both invisible and deeply interconnected. Water beneath one county line does not simply

stop and wait for another jurisdiction to take over. “The aquifer doesn’t care about your county boundary lines,” Kouba explained. Montgomery County works alongside neighboring groundwater districts and state planning groups to monitor usage, evaluate future conditions, and project what the aquifer should look like decades from now.

Part science lab, part strategy session, the District relies heavily on hydrogeologists, monitoring systems, groundwater models, and long-term forecasting. Kouba frequently uses the image of a straw in the ground to simplify how wells operate and how groundwater is pulled from the aquifer. The District monitors water levels during both the high-demand summer months and the lower-demand winter months.

At the same time, the District is trying to make groundwater education feel less intimidating. One of the District’s largest initiatives right now is its rainwater-harvesting barrel program, which encourages homeowners to collect rainwater directly from their gutters for landscaping and irrigation. Residents can purchase subsidized rain barrels through the District to reduce unnecessary groundwater use and become more aware of their own consumption habits. Kouba pointed out that a single rain barrel may seem small on its own, but hundreds or thousands of households making the same decision can create a measurable reduction in groundwater demand over time. The District also notes that harvested rainwater is often healthier for plants while reducing strain on public water systems.

Another initiative helping make groundwater education more engaging is the District’s scholarship program for local high school seniors. The program teaches students about groundwater management, conservation, and alternative water supplies before encouraging them to become advocates within their own communities. Students help promote the rain barrel program while educating locals about conservation practices, turning participants into what the District informally calls “water heroes.”

While many conservation efforts happen at the residential level, the District is also looking toward larger infrastructure solutions through its growing “purple pipe” campaign. Purple pipe systems use reclaimed water for irrigation instead of fresh potable groundwater. Kouba explained that introducing these systems early during development planning is far easier and more affordable than attempting to redesign infrastructure later. Schools, commercial developments, landscaping systems, golf courses, and large-scale neighborhoods all represent opportunities for smarter long-term water use. That focus on proactive planning is especially important as new subdivisions and largescale development projects create increasing demand every year.

Kouba stressed that conservation should not begin only once restrictions or crises appear. “It does not require regulation for individuals to always be good stewards,” she said. Everyday habits still matter, whether it involves turning off running faucets, repairing broken sprinkler heads, avoiding unnecessary waste, or paying

closer attention to how water resources are managed. The District encourages residents to attend local water meetings, ask questions, and become more informed about where their water comes from.

One misconception the District frequently addresses is the belief that major flooding events automatically replenish the aquifer. Kouba explained that while flooding may impact the upper water table in some areas, the Gulf Coast aquifer functions differently than other aquifers in Texas due to its scale and geology. Heavy rains alone are not a simple solution for long-term groundwater replenishment; conservation and careful planning are important. The District also works closely with regional partners like the San Jacinto River Authority to encourage conjunctive use, meaning communities utilize both groundwater and alternative surface water resources when possible.

For something hidden underground, groundwater plays an enormous role in shaping the region’s visible future. Every new neighborhood, school, business, and roadway ultimately depends on a resource that most residents never see until it comes out of a faucet. Become a “Water Hero” and look into a rain barrel or support the scholarships and conservation campaigns. The Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District is on a journey to turn an invisible world into something communities understand and help protect for generations to come.

PASSPORT TO Education

Where Dreams Need Desks and Schoolhouses Spark a Chance to Hope

ARTICLE BY RORI ORTIZ

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRITTANY LAROTTA

Kevin Valdez, founder of the Valdez Foundation, understands that for many children, education is not guaranteed. It is negotiated against survival and balancing means for other essentials. A notebook can mean less money for food. A school uniform can become a family debate. Even internet access or running water inside a classroom can determine whether a child moves forward or falls behind in their educational journey. Through the Valdez Foundation, a nonprofit organization working throughout El Salvador, Valdez and his family help provide students with school supplies, infrastructure improvements, scholarships, and educational support, rooted in the belief that every child deserves a chance to learn and, most of all, the dignity to hope for more.

Born in San Miguel, El Salvador, Valdez grew up in a household of 11 people where access to education was difficult. He remembers walking 30 minutes each way to school and watching education become a harder goal to pursue with every passing year. For many families in El Salvador, continuing beyond elementary school can feel financially impossible. So much of a household's income must first cover food, water, and everyday survival. Often, education ends up last on the list of priorities. Those experiences became the foundation for the organization's mission when Valdez and his family launched the nonprofit in 2024.

Today, the foundation partners directly with El Salvador's Department of Education to support students from kindergarten through university-level studies. Since launching, the organization has worked with more than 25 institutions, impacting nearly 10,000 students and more than 300 teachers through scholarships, school improvements, and educational resources. Their projects vary depending on the needs of each unique school. Some involve installing electricity or running water. Others focus

on internet access, laptops, or accessible rooms for students with learning disabilities.

One project in Santa Ana particularly resonated with the organization. Nearly 200 students were attending classes inside a church because they did not have a school building of their own. The same structure functioning as a church also served as a classroom for the children. After community members reached out, the foundation helped create a dedicated educational environment and install electricity and internet access. Teachers who previously lacked resources can now use screens, printers, and educational videos in their classrooms. It has given students access to tools many had never experienced before.

The foundation has also worked with schools to support students whose learning progress was disrupted by COVID-19. In one school serving nearly 1,000 students, the organization partnered with therapists and educators to help children struggling with delayed learning skills. Many of those students are now performing at the same level as their peers, helping prevent them from falling permanently behind in their education.

“Education is the only path to better oneself,” said Kevin Valdez, founder and director of The Valdez Foundation.

For Valdez, the work extends beyond supplies or construction projects. It's the beginning of hope for families and the building of lasting relationships with schools and teachers. The foundation continues to follow up with the communities it has served, focusing on long-term solutions rather than short-term aid. Valdez credits the work of board members Yancy Valdez, Mary Valdez, and Bryan Arguello, along with major supporter Ivan Contreras and project coordinator Marielo Villegas in El Salvador, for helping the organization grow. Support the foundation or learn more by contacting the organization directly at thevaldezfoundation@gmail.com

Color Inside Another Dimension

A summer adventure in full color, where curiosity is rewarded

Meow Wolf Houston beats the summer heat with indoor summer escapism. Meow Wolf invites guests into Radio Tave, a surreal community radio station stretched across dimensions, realities, and interactive art. What begins as a walk through glowing corridors quickly shifts into neon. Colors spill across hidden passageways, music echoes through unexpected rooms, and it suddenly feels like reality has been left somewhere outside the

building. Exploration becomes part of the experience because, behind ordinary doors, guests become active participants inside an environment designed to reward curiosity. Every hallway feels alive with discovery, creating an adventure for all ages that works equally well for families, date nights, and adult friend groups looking for something far outside the usual universe of the Houston entertainment scene.

ARTICLE BY RORI ORTIZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL HORANDE

Beginning in July and continuing through August 9, Phenomenomaly transforms the space into a live theatrical experience unfolding throughout the exhibit. Performers appear organically as guests move room to room, creating an atmosphere where no two visits feel the exact same. The experience follows a group of interplanetary tourists led by the Lil’ Bigg Miss Fitts as they attempt to trigger the migration of mysterious creatures known as Flickerwerms. Along the way, visitors become part of the unfolding storytelling through hidden interactions, collaborative moments, and roaming performances that blur the line between audience and performer. Instead of sitting in a theater-style setting, guests wander, and their movement itself becomes part of the entertainment surrounding them.

The rotating summer lineup reflects Houston's artistic diversity and creative spirit. Winners Circle brings high-energy breakdance performances into the exhibit July 3 through 5. Houston blues musician The Mighty Orq follows July 10 through 12, with Gulf Coast blues and folk filling the glowing rooms. The Texas Dragon and Lion Dance Team arrives July 17 through 19 with rhythmic cultural movement, percussion, and colorful spectacle woven throughout the experience. Later in the month, magician Robby Bennett transforms hidden corners into interactive moments of illusion before Hot City Brass Band closes out July and begins August with crowd-driven brass performances inspired by Gulf Coast traditions. Hopera concludes the series August 7 through 9 with playful contemporary opera.

The summer concerts continue the energy, with Barnacle Boi taking over July 10, followed by Buck Meek on July 21. Rather than separating music from the art surrounding it, performances become a part of the atmosphere. Between concerts, roaming performers, glowing installations, and unexpected encounters occur. Meow Wolf creates the kind of summer outing that feels different every time you visit. Families can turn it into an afternoon escape, couples can make it a colorful date night, and friend groups can disappear into curiosity for a few hours while staying within four walls, never leaving Houston or escaping the Texas heat. Meow Wolf Houston turns indoor exploration into something normal, into a crazy afternoon or an unforgettable night out. Adventure here is not something visitors watch from the sidelines. It is something they step directly into.

ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE

The 10% Target Mindset

Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT

Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.

He calls days later.

That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.

The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.

The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.

“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”

FEATURING JEN COHEN

Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.

1 2

MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS

The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.

STACK THE DECK

Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.

DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE

No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.

SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP

Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.

NEVER MISS A MONDAY

The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.

Fredericksburg Uncorked

Exploring Fredericksburg through wildlife, wine, and local makers

Fredericksburg is best experienced slowly, blending small-town charm with wineries, boutiques, historic spaces, and memorable experiences worth lingering over. In this curated guide, standout destinations reflect the heart of Fredericksburg, each offering its own expression of Hill Country hospitality. Whether planning a weekend escape or revisiting a familiar favorite, these places capture the craftsmanship and welcoming spirit that continue drawing visitors back to Texas Wine Country.

Stay a While

Gästehaus Schmidt

Gästehaus Schmidt offers a welcoming collection of vacation rentals throughout Fredericksburg and the Texas Hill Country. Guests can choose from charming cottages, romantic cabins, and spacious homes located near Main Street or tucked into peaceful countryside settings. Whether visiting for a celebration, couples getaway, or relaxed weekend, every stay feels comfortable and personal. Since 1985, the company has also provided trusted vacation rental management services for homeowners. fbglodging.com

Shop the Region

Just off Main Street, Warehouse Row adds a modern layer to Fredericksburg’s traditional Hill Country atmosphere. The walkable district brings together curated boutiques, artisan goods, fashion, home décor, and local craftsmanship.

Blackchalk Home + Laundry

Blackchalk Home + Laundry stands out inside a restored historic laundry building. The shop features furniture, lighting, rugs, artwork, and curated gifts that feel collected over time rather than mass produced. The design-forward space blends historic character with modern style, creating an inspiring shopping experience for visitors seeking distinctive pieces and custom design services. blackchalkhome.com

Carol Hicks Bolton Antiqüités

Carol Hicks Bolton Antiqüités remains one of Fredericksburg’s most beloved design destinations. Housed inside a sprawling historic warehouse, the space feels more like a layered home than a retail store. European antiques, vintage finds, statement furniture, and collected curiosities

Six Twists Sparkling

Hill Country Chocolate and Wine Pairing

fill every room, encouraging visitors to wander slowly and discover something unexpected around every corner. carolhicksbolton.com

Getting Around

Brooke's Bubble Bar & Bus

Brooke’s Bubble Bus & Bar offers one of Fredericksburg’s most playful ways to explore wine country. Known for its signature pink bus and champagne-forward atmosphere, the experience combines lively music, bubbly cocktails, and curated private tours through Texas Hill Country. Guests can visit vineyards, scenic tasting rooms, and nightlife destinations while enjoying a relaxed social atmosphere. Popular for girls’ trips, celebrations, and weekend getaways, the experience transforms transportation into part of the adventure. brookesbubblebus.com

Something Sweet

Hill Country Chocolate

Hill Country Chocolate delivers a memorable stop for anyone craving something indulgent. Part chocolate shop and part tasting room, the experience highlights handcrafted bonbons, truffles, and smallbatch treats paired alongside curated wine experiences. Visitors can explore guided tastings, classes, and behind-the-scenes tours showcasing the chocolate-making process. hillcountrychocolate.com

Wine Wisdom

Advanced sommelier Andre Boada, founder of Vino Cadre, brings an elevated and education-driven approach to wine experiences throughout Fredericksburg. Drawing from a background rooted in Napa Valley wine culture and global consulting, he creates personalized tastings, winery tours, and immersive educational experiences.

Vino Cadre

Vino Cadre serves as a gateway to exploring Texas Hill Country wine country with insider access and thoughtfully curated itineraries. From guided tastings to connections with standout vineyards, chefs, and hospitality partners, every experience feels intentional and approachable. Whether visitors are planning a quick weekend escape or a deeper dive into regional wine culture, Vino Cadre creates seamless experiences that make exploring Fredericksburg feel effortless. vinocadre.com

Best Vineyards & Tasting Rooms

Covington Cellars

Covington Cellars offers a relaxed approach to Texas Hill Country wine country just off the 290 Wine Trail near Fredericksburg. Located on a scenic estate in Hye, the tasting room pairs thoughtfully crafted Texas and Washington wines, with seasonal small bites best enjoyed on a spacious patio overlooking the vineyard. covingtoncellars.com

Adega Vinho Winery

Adega Vinho Winery blends Portuguese inspiration with Texas Hill Country hospitality. Family-owned and deeply connected to the land, the winery produces estate wines crafted with care and regional character. Guests can enjoy vineyard views, relaxed tastings, and a welcoming atmosphere centered around sustainability and memorable moments. adegavinho.com

Slate Theory

Slate Theory Winery delivers a modern, immersive tasting experience where art, science, and storytelling intersect. The sleek yet inviting environment guides guests through curated tastings in strikingly designed spaces that encourage curiosity and conversation. Its innovative approach creates one of the most memorable wine experiences along the Fredericksburg wine trail. slatetheory.com

Michael Ros

Michael Ros Winery offers a warm, approachable tasting room experience focused on estate-grown grapes and small-lot production. Rooted in both the Hill Country and Texas High Plains, the winery emphasizes wines that reflect the character of the land while maintaining an easygoing atmosphere where guests can slow down and sip thoughtfully. michaelroswinery.com

Turtle Creek Vineyard

Turtle Creek Vineyard brings a laid-back, Tuscan-inspired atmosphere to Texas Hill Country. The family-owned estate focuses on small-batch wines best enjoyed through relaxed guided tastings overlooking scenic creekside views. Guests can learn more about the winemaking process while experiencing the vineyard’s sustainable approach and welcoming hospitality. turtlecreekvineyard.com

Blackchalk Home + Laundry

Into the Wild

The Preserve

The Preserve offers one of Fredericksburg’s most unique experiences through immersive wildlife encounters with elephants and other exotic animals. Visitors can feed, groom,

and learn about animal care while exploring thoughtfully designed habitats centered around conservation and stewardship. From giraffes and kangaroos to majestic elephants, the experience feels personal and memorable for visitors of all ages. visitthepreserve.com

Where to Dine

Calivence Wine Tasting Bar + Bistro

Calivence Wine Tasting Bar + Bistro invites guests into a beautifully restored historic space in downtown Fredericksburg where old-world charm meets modern Hill Country hospitality. The menu pairs thoughtfully crafted wines with seasonal, farm-to-table dishes designed for relaxed conversation and lingering meals. Whether visiting for a tasting flight, shared dinner, or special evening out, Calivence balances French-inspired elegance with Texas warmth. calivencefbg.com

Texas Sunrise

Texas Sunrise, formerly Squeeze In, remains a longtime Fredericksburg

breakfast favorite known for its lively diner atmosphere and oversized omelettes. Located downtown, the restaurant draws crowds with fluffy pancakes, hearty breakfast plates, and more than 50 omelette variations. Signed dollar bills covering the walls and ceiling add to the restaurant’s energetic personality and longstanding local charm. texassunrisefbg.com

Six Twists Sparkling

Six Twists Sparkling brings a lively addition to Fredericksburg as Texas’s first dedicated sparkling wine lounge. Located on Main Street, the stylish tasting space offers sparkling wines from around the world alongside tasting flights, light bites, and educational experiences in a relaxed setting. The name references the muselet, the wire cage traditionally removed from a sparkling wine bottle with six twists before opening, a playful detail reflecting the lounge’s celebratory spirit. sixtwistssparkling.com

The Preserve

Grape flower cluster before blooming

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JULY 4TH

July 4th at Big Rivers Water Park

Big River’s Waterpark | New Caney, TX | 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Join the excitement at Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures on July 4, 2026, for a patriotic celebration honoring America’s 250 years of freedom. Enjoy thrilling attractions, family activities, festive entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks finale after dark. Gather your friends and family for an unforgettable Independence Day packed with summer fun, community spirit, and star-spangled celebration.

JULY 4TH

Experience soccer excitement as the FIFA World Cup comes to Houston!

NRG Stadium | Houston, TX | 12:00 PM

Celebrate Independence Day with elite international soccer as the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 arrives at NRG Stadium on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Kickoff is scheduled for 12:00 P.M., featuring a high-stakes knockout match between two advancing nations. Join fans from around the world for an unforgettable day of energy, passion, and world-class competition.

JULY 4TH

Valley Ranch 4th Fest 2026

Valley Ranch | New Caney, TX | 7:00 PM

Join us on The Hill for an unforgettable 4th of July filled with live music, family traditions, fireworks and the moments that make summer memories last forever. Bring your friends, family, neighbors and lawn chairs for a night of celebration, connection and patriotic spirit. Featuring live performances by Joey Green and Payton Howie and the BEST fireworks show in Montgomery County.

JULY 11TH - 12TH

Celebrate Christmas early with shopping, treats, and festive family fun!

A.V. 'Bull' Sallas Park | New Caney, TX | 10:00 AM

Get into the holiday spirit early at the Christmas in July Market on July 11–12, 2026, at A.V. Bull Sallas Park. Browse festive vendors, unique gifts, handmade goods, and delicious treats while enjoying a fun-filled weekend with family and friends. This cheerful community event brings Christmas magic to summertime in New Caney.

JULY 13TH

Prepare your student for another successful year at New Caney ISD!

New Caney ISD | East Montgomery County, TX | 9:00 AM

Enrollment for returning students at New Caney Independent School District opens July 13, 2026, for the upcoming school year. Families are encouraged to complete registration early to ensure schedules, extracurricular participation, and a smooth start to classes. New Caney ISD continues providing outstanding educational opportunities while helping students and families prepare for another exciting and successful academic year.

JULY 31ST - AUGUST 2ND

Catch Texas baseball rivalry action live as Astros battle the Rangers!

Daikin Park | Houston, TX | 7:00 PM

Experience the excitement as the Houston Astros take on the Texas Rangers in an electrifying three-game series July 31 through August 2, 2026, at Daikin Park. From big hits to unforgettable moments, this legendary Texas rivalry always delivers nonstop energy and excitement. Grab your tickets, wear your team colors, and enjoy an incredible weekend of Major League Baseball fun.