Texas Archives | Golden Country Cowgirl

Lavender Farms in Texas Hill Country: Where to See the Best Blooms

A beautiful field of lavender in full bloom with text that says Lavender Farms in Texas Hill Country.

Texas Hill Country is famous for its rolling landscapes, charming small towns, and, in recent years, its breathtaking lavender farms. With ideal growing conditions for lavender, the region has become a hotspot for agritourism, drawing visitors who want to stroll through fragrant fields, pick their own lavender, and experience the calming effects of this beautiful plant. The best time to visit Texas lavender farms is May through July, when the plants are in full bloom, transforming the fields into a sea of purple. The town of Blanco, known as the Lavender Capital of Texas, even hosts an annual Blanco Lavender Festival to celebrate the harvest season. In this guide, we’ll explore the top lavender farms to visit, the best ways to experience them, and a…

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15 Best Things to do on South Padre Island

Illustration of view of a beautiful beach at sunset from a restaurant. Text says South Padre Island 15 Best Things to Do

South Padre Island is a Senior-Friendly Gulf Coast Escape I’ve been to a lot of places in the Rio Grande Valley, but South Padre Island holds a special place in my heart. Being a former southern California girl, I love being near the water. The sound of the waves crashing on the shore and the gentle sea breeze instantly make you feel relaxed yet energized. I’m lucky to live only about an hour from South Padre Island. I’ve visited many times so I can give you some first hand recommendations for things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a bit of adventure, South Padre has something for everyone—especially for active seniors like us. My Experiences on South Padre Island…

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A Look at Texas National Parks History

Scenic view of Big Bend National Park in Texas at sunset, highlighting the natural beauty of the Texas wilderness.

Why Texas Has Fewer National Parks and Landmarks Than Other States When you think of national parks, places like Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, and Yosemite might come to mind. But here in Texas, we have far fewer national parks than much smaller states, despite the fact that the Lone Star State is packed with breathtaking landscapes and rich history. So, why is that? It turns out, the story behind Texas’ national parks history is rooted in the state’s unique journey to becoming part of the United States. Let’s take a look at why there are fewer national parks in Texas, and how our state has developed its own way of protecting and preserving natural beauty. Texas’ Path to Statehood To understand why Texas has fewer…

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Palo Alto Battlefield: A Step Back into History

Cannon at Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

There’s something truly special about visiting a place where history comes alive, and Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park is one of those places. As I stepped onto the trails and took in the sweeping prairie landscape, I couldn’t help but imagine what it must have been like to stand here over 175 years ago, on the cusp of a battle that would change the course of two nations. During my visit, I found myself not just learning about the U.S.-Mexican War, but also reflecting on the people and stories behind the conflict. From the fascinating exhibits in the visitor center to the peaceful, open battlefield itself, this park offers a unique blend of history, nature, and quiet contemplation. Whether you’re a history buff, a…

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12 Hidden Gems in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas

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The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) is a treasure trove of lesser-known attractions. While many travelers flock to the popular destinations, these Rio Grande Valley hidden gems offer unique experiences that highlight the region’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or adventurer, these spots deserve a place on your itinerary. 1. Los Ebanos Ferry Why Visit: Step back in time with a ride on the last hand-pulled ferry in the United States. This unique transportation experience connects Texas to Mexico across the Rio Grande. What to Expect: The ferry crew manually pulls passengers and vehicles across the river using a thick rope. It’s a fascinating nod to history and a fun experience for all ages. Hours: Open daily, 8 a.m.…

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10 Top Places to Visit in the Rio Grande Valley

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The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) is bursting with incredible places to explore. From beaches to wildlife refuges, the region offers something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, these top spots should be on your itinerary. 1. South Padre Island Why Visit: South Padre Island is famous for its gorgeous beaches, warm Gulf waters, and endless activities. Families love the calm waves, while adventure seekers enjoy kiteboarding, parasailing, and jet skiing. It’s also a hotspot for nature lovers. The South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center offers boardwalk trails where you can spot herons, egrets, and even alligators. Dolphin-watching tours are another must-try experience. Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall have perfect weather and fewer crowds. Hours: Public beaches are…

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Exploring SpaceX: A Unique Tourist Destination in Boca Chica, Texas

Nestled along the Gulf Coast near Brownsville, Texas, SpaceX’s Starbase facility has transformed the quiet area of Boca Chica into a hub of innovation and intrigue. While the primary mission of SpaceX is advancing space exploration, its site has also become a fascinating tourist destination for space enthusiasts, tech buffs, and curious travelers. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a visit to this one-of-a-kind location. A SpaceX Starship rocket and booster at the company’s Starbase facility launch pad. (Image credit: SpaceX via X) 1. What Is Starbase? Starbase is SpaceX’s launch and development facility where the company designs, builds, and tests its next-generation Starship rockets. The site’s futuristic infrastructure and ongoing rocket launches have made it a magnet for visitors. The towering…

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World Birding Center Locations and Best Time to Visit

The World Birding Center may sound like a single place but, in fact, it is a series of nine locations that stretch out 120 miles across the southern border of Texas. Each unique facility is a gem on the chain that forms the World Birding Center. The World Birding Center locations offer year round activities. Whether you are a casual nature lover with no interest in birding or an expert birder, you’ll love all that these centers have to offer. About the World Birding Center The World Birding Center is a $20 million development based on the joint partnership between the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Rio Grande Valley Communities & U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Each unique location is sponsored by one of the…

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Port of Brownsville Fiesta Cruise with Osprey Cruises

It was a while coming but I finally got to go on the Port of Brownsville Fiesta Cruise with Osprey Cruises. I purchased my ticket at the Winter Texan Expo in McAllen way back in January 2020, then everything came to a screeching halt that March. The cruise finally started operating again earlier this year. I watched the weather for what I hoped would be a beautiful day and made a reservation. I was rewarded with an almost perfect day of blue skies, warm but not too hot temperatures, and a mild breeze. Osprey Cruises Osprey Cruises may be best known for their fishing trips, both deep sea and bay fishing, but their six boats offer a variety of options. Deep sea and bay fishing…

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Tourist Day in Nuevo Progreso

The border town of Nuevo Progreso, Mexico, honors tourists twice each year. Why? Simply put, tourists are essential to the economy. Early in December, usually on a Friday, they host Welcome Back Winter Texans. On March 21st, regardless of the day of the week it falls on, they host another big celebration for Tourist Day in Nuevo Progreso. Many winter Texans wait until after this event to return to their homes in northern locations. When I moved to the Rio Grande Valley the end of 2018, one of the things I really wanted to do was visit Nuevo Progreso. I was excited to make my first Progreso – Nuevo Progreso International Bridge crossing early in 2019. My friend Linda and I had a great time…

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