Wineries Archives - Plan to Explore https://plantoexplore.com/tag/wineries/ Your Resource for Easy Travel Tips Fri, 28 Mar 2025 18:26:28 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://plantoexplore.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-P-1-32x32.png Wineries Archives - Plan to Explore https://plantoexplore.com/tag/wineries/ 32 32 Top Napa Valley Tips to Plan Your Trip on Any Budget https://plantoexplore.com/napa-valley/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=napa-valley https://plantoexplore.com/napa-valley/#comments Wed, 01 Dec 2021 22:27:34 +0000 https://plantoexplore.com/?p=3229 The famed Napa Valley. We’ve all heard of it – the best wines in America are supposedly made here. So with all that hype and notoriety, how do you plan a trip at any budget?  Follow the tips in each section below and you’ll be planning your trip to Napa Valley in no time.  Flights to Napa Valley Napa Valley’s location gives you a few different options for flights, which is helpful on your wallet. The most convenient locations are Oakland and Sacramento. San Francisco is another option but is a bit further away. Below are the approximate driving distances from each airport to Napa Valley.  Oakland to Napa Valley: About an hour and a half drive.  Sacramento to Napa Valley: About an hour drive.  San Francisco to Napa Valley:  Almost two hours drive.  Don’t forget to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now Going) to get flight deals right in your inbox!  How to Get Around Napa Valley When in Napa Valley you will definitely need a car to get around, unless you plan on staying in one small area and taking tours or catching Uber daily.  Napa Valley primarily consists of a number of towns up and down Highway 29. Starting in the south in Napa City, you’ll continue north through Rutherford and Oakville, on to St. Helena, and then Calistoga.  With two days in the area, we just scratched the surface visiting St. Helena, Rutherford and Napa proper.  I recommend renting a car to get the most out of your time. If the daily rental rate for cars seems too expensive, try checking out Turo. It’s a peer to peer rental service that tends to be a bit less expensive. We had a car delivered right to arrivals in Oakland.  Click here to check out rental cars in the Oakland area.  Read More: Popular Wineries in the Texas Hill Country Napa Valley Weather The weather in Napa Valley is great for most of the year. In the winter temperatures are mild, although it can get a little chilly. Spring and Fall are a great time to visit with weather in the 60 – 70ºF range. Summer can get up into the 80º range, but this could a be great time to explore those wine cave tours!  If you want to save money, travel in the off-season! The most popular time of year to visit Napa Valley is between August and mid-October.  Benessere Vineyards Where to Stay in Napa Valley Napa Valley accommodations are not exactly known to be super affordable.  My recommendation would be to find an area of Napa you’d like to spend the most time in and then start looking for where to stay.  Areas to check out: Yountville, California is more upscale with the Michelin star restaurants. Napa “City” has a river flowing through it and more modern shops and restaurants.  The small towns of St. Helena and Calistoga are quaint and there will more than likely be less tourists at the end of the day.  Once you decide on the area, don’t forget to check VRBO, Booking.com, and Trip Advisor for the best options.  Click on the buttons below to search Napa Valley places to stay!  VRBO Home Rentals Booking.com How to Pick Napa Valley Wineries This is the hardest part! With over 400 wineries in the valley, how do you choose?  My advice is to break down the Napa Valley wineries by using five different factors to help narrow your choices. You can use all of them, or just a few!  Location: Start your day by day itinerary by choosing the location you want to focus on. For example, we stayed around St. Helena one day, and then Napa proper/Rutherford the next.   Wine Varietal: Many people come to Napa because it’s known for good quality Cabernet Sauvignon. If you like Cab, pick wineries based on that. Personally, I like a variety. I tried to choose wineries throughout the day that had varying varietals.  Price Point: Some wineries in Napa are very expensive just for a tasting. You’ll see tasting prices anywhere from $30 – $90 per person. As you are looking up wineries, most will have a  “visit” page where you can see what the tasting cost will be.  Rating/Recommendation: As a last deciding option, check out the rating on Google. I tend to read a few at 5 stars, a few in the middle, and a few bad reviews for any given place to see what it’s like. Looking at visitor pictures can also give you a true sense of the experience. You can also ask on social media if anyone has been to the area before and if they have recommendations.  Atmosphere: Since I just mentioned taking a look at visitor pictures, another way I narrow down my list is to figure out what kind of winery scenery and atmosphere I’m looking for. Do you want an upscale and grand? Boutique and quaint? A beautiful view?  If you really want the “easy button” – book a tour! I love Get Your Guide and Airbnb Experiences to book a tour.  Where to Eat in Napa Valley There are so many options for food in Napa Valley! You can find upscale, casual, fast casual, food markets, and more.  I travel on a budget, so the places I will be recommending are based on a modest budget.  Oxbow Market: With so much variety under one roof, this really is one to check out. Food options include pizza, tacos, oysters, burgers, bakery goods, coffee, a cheese shop, and a small shop with produce. Highly recommend stopping at C Casa for breakfast tacos (one of the best I’ve ever had and I am from the breakfast taco state of Texas!).  The coffee at Ritual Coffee was absolutely delicious as well.  You can pick up items to make your own picnic here, which is what we did! I grabbed cheese, salami, olives, grapes, and crackers – which is a great budget friendly option. Pro tip – tell the cheese shop at check out that you’re having a picnic and they will set you up with plates, napkins, and utensils!  Oxbow Market Ritual Coffee Model Bakery: Locations include Oxbow Market and St. Helena. We stopped at the one in St. Helena for lunch to try to avoid some of the crowds. I had a veggie sandwich that was great, husband had a slice of pizza that hit the spot. We got a few takeaway pastries but they were a little dry by the next morning, so I recommend eating them same day!  Gott’s Roadside: Locations include St. Helena and Oxbow Market. If you like a good burger and fries combo, you’ll love Gott’s. They also have salads, tacos, and milkshakes. I got the falafel salad and tried a taste of the burger which was really good. Fries were also yummy.  Gott’s Roadside Napa General Store: Part restaurant, part gift shop this is a nice stop. We had brunch here on a rainy Sunday. The food was fresh and the portion sizes were big. The skillet potatoes were the best part! I also bought a few gifts to bring home. I love dual purpose locations!  Other food recommendations in Napa Valley that I didn’t have a chance to check out, but heard good things about:  St. Helena: Goose & Gander, TraVinge, and Farmstead  Rutherford/Napa: Rutherford Grill, Bounty Hunter, and La Taberna Napa Valley Pro Tips Here are some pro tips for Napa Valley to help during your visit!  Make reservations! You will want to make reservations not only for every winery you visit but also for restaurants. Places book up weeks in advance, so plan accordingly.  Allow a good amount of time between tastings – you’ll want to explore each property, and also have enough time to get in between each spot.  Conclusions Napa Valley can be affordable if you take some time to research and plan a bit! I have to say it wasn’t as “stuffy” as I thought it might be, and I really look forward to going back again.  Don’t forget to use the tools below to help with your Napa Valley travel planning:  Hotels: Booking.com Vacation Rentals: VRBO Tours: Get Your Guide Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I really, really appreciate your support and could not continue this blog without you! 

The post Top Napa Valley Tips to Plan Your Trip on Any Budget appeared first on Plan to Explore.

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The famed Napa Valley. We’ve all heard of it – the best wines in America are supposedly made here. So with all that hype and notoriety, how do you plan a trip at any budget? 

Follow the tips in each section below and you’ll be planning your trip to Napa Valley in no time. 

Flights to Napa Valley

Napa Valley’s location gives you a few different options for flights, which is helpful on your wallet. The most convenient locations are Oakland and Sacramento. San Francisco is another option but is a bit further away. Below are the approximate driving distances from each airport to Napa Valley. 

  • Oakland to Napa Valley: About an hour and a half drive. 
  • Sacramento to Napa Valley: About an hour drive. 
  • San Francisco to Napa Valley:  Almost two hours drive. 
Don’t forget to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now Going) to get flight deals right in your inbox! 
Up to 25% off on all Priority Pass annual memberships

How to Get Around Napa Valley

When in Napa Valley you will definitely need a car to get around, unless you plan on staying in one small area and taking tours or catching Uber daily. 

Napa Valley primarily consists of a number of towns up and down Highway 29. Starting in the south in Napa City, you’ll continue north through Rutherford and Oakville, on to St. Helena, and then Calistoga. 

With two days in the area, we just scratched the surface visiting St. Helena, Rutherford and Napa proper. 

I recommend renting a car to get the most out of your time. If the daily rental rate for cars seems too expensive, try checking out Turo. It’s a peer to peer rental service that tends to be a bit less expensive. We had a car delivered right to arrivals in Oakland. 

Click here to check out rental cars in the Oakland area. 

Dripping Springs Wineries, Hawk Shadow, Plan to Explore

Read More: Popular Wineries in the Texas Hill Country

Napa Valley Weather

The weather in Napa Valley is great for most of the year. In the winter temperatures are mild, although it can get a little chilly. Spring and Fall are a great time to visit with weather in the 60 – 70ºF range. Summer can get up into the 80º range, but this could a be great time to explore those wine cave tours! 

If you want to save money, travel in the off-season! The most popular time of year to visit Napa Valley is between August and mid-October. 

Napa Valley Weather, Plan to Explore
Benessere Vineyards

Where to Stay in Napa Valley

Napa Valley accommodations are not exactly known to be super affordable. 

My recommendation would be to find an area of Napa you’d like to spend the most time in and then start looking for where to stay. 

Areas to check out:

Yountville, California is more upscale with the Michelin star restaurants. Napa “City” has a river flowing through it and more modern shops and restaurants. 

The small towns of St. Helena and Calistoga are quaint and there will more than likely be less tourists at the end of the day. 

Once you decide on the area, don’t forget to check VRBO, Booking.com, and Trip Advisor for the best options. 

Click on the buttons below to search Napa Valley places to stay! 
VRBO Home Rentals
Booking.com

How to Pick Napa Valley Wineries

This is the hardest part! With over 400 wineries in the valley, how do you choose? 

My advice is to break down the Napa Valley wineries by using five different factors to help narrow your choices. You can use all of them, or just a few! 

  1. Location: Start your day by day itinerary by choosing the location you want to focus on. For example, we stayed around St. Helena one day, and then Napa proper/Rutherford the next.  
  2. Wine Varietal: Many people come to Napa because it’s known for good quality Cabernet Sauvignon. If you like Cab, pick wineries based on that. Personally, I like a variety. I tried to choose wineries throughout the day that had varying varietals. 
  3. Price Point: Some wineries in Napa are very expensive just for a tasting. You’ll see tasting prices anywhere from $30 – $90 per person. As you are looking up wineries, most will have a  “visit” page where you can see what the tasting cost will be. 
  4. Rating/Recommendation: As a last deciding option, check out the rating on Google. I tend to read a few at 5 stars, a few in the middle, and a few bad reviews for any given place to see what it’s like. Looking at visitor pictures can also give you a true sense of the experience. You can also ask on social media if anyone has been to the area before and if they have recommendations. 
  5. Atmosphere: Since I just mentioned taking a look at visitor pictures, another way I narrow down my list is to figure out what kind of winery scenery and atmosphere I’m looking for. Do you want an upscale and grand? Boutique and quaint? A beautiful view? 

If you really want the “easy button” – book a tour! I love Get Your Guide and Airbnb Experiences to book a tour. 

Napa Valley Vineyard, Plan to Explore Travel Blog

Where to Eat in Napa Valley

There are so many options for food in Napa Valley! You can find upscale, casual, fast casual, food markets, and more. 

I travel on a budget, so the places I will be recommending are based on a modest budget. 

Oxbow Market: With so much variety under one roof, this really is one to check out. Food options include pizza, tacos, oysters, burgers, bakery goods, coffee, a cheese shop, and a small shop with produce. Highly recommend stopping at C Casa for breakfast tacos (one of the best I’ve ever had and I am from the breakfast taco state of Texas!).  The coffee at Ritual Coffee was absolutely delicious as well. 

You can pick up items to make your own picnic here, which is what we did! I grabbed cheese, salami, olives, grapes, and crackers – which is a great budget friendly option. Pro tip – tell the cheese shop at check out that you’re having a picnic and they will set you up with plates, napkins, and utensils! 

Oxbow Market, Napa Valley, Plan to Explore Travel Blog
Oxbow Market
Ritual Coffee

Model Bakery: Locations include Oxbow Market and St. Helena. We stopped at the one in St. Helena for lunch to try to avoid some of the crowds. I had a veggie sandwich that was great, husband had a slice of pizza that hit the spot. We got a few takeaway pastries but they were a little dry by the next morning, so I recommend eating them same day! 

Gott’s Roadside: Locations include St. Helena and Oxbow Market. If you like a good burger and fries combo, you’ll love Gott’s. They also have salads, tacos, and milkshakes. I got the falafel salad and tried a taste of the burger which was really good. Fries were also yummy. 

Gott's Roadside, Plan to Explore
Gott's Roadside

Napa General Store: Part restaurant, part gift shop this is a nice stop. We had brunch here on a rainy Sunday. The food was fresh and the portion sizes were big. The skillet potatoes were the best part! I also bought a few gifts to bring home. I love dual purpose locations! 

Other food recommendations in Napa Valley that I didn’t have a chance to check out, but heard good things about: 

St. Helena: Goose & Gander, TraVinge, and Farmstead 

Rutherford/Napa: Rutherford Grill, Bounty Hunter, and La Taberna

Napa Valley Pro Tips

Here are some pro tips for Napa Valley to help during your visit! 

  • Make reservations! You will want to make reservations not only for every winery you visit but also for restaurants. Places book up weeks in advance, so plan accordingly. 
  • Allow a good amount of time between tastings – you’ll want to explore each property, and also have enough time to get in between each spot. 

Conclusions

Napa Valley can be affordable if you take some time to research and plan a bit! I have to say it wasn’t as “stuffy” as I thought it might be, and I really look forward to going back again. 

Don’t forget to use the tools below to help with your Napa Valley travel planning: 

Hotels: Booking.com

Vacation Rentals: VRBO

Tours: Get Your Guide

Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I really, really appreciate your support and could not continue this blog without you! 

The post Top Napa Valley Tips to Plan Your Trip on Any Budget appeared first on Plan to Explore.

]]> https://plantoexplore.com/napa-valley/feed/ 1 5 Reasons to Not Miss Johnson City, Texas on Your Hill Country Visit [Updated 2025] https://plantoexplore.com/johnson-city-texas/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=johnson-city-texas https://plantoexplore.com/johnson-city-texas/#comments Thu, 01 Apr 2021 19:02:25 +0000 https://plantoexplore.com/?p=2728 Johnson City, Texas may not ring a bell to you. Nestled between Fredericksburg and Austin, this quaint town also has a lot to offer but without all the hype.   I visit Johnson City quite often as I live only 20 minutes east in Dripping Springs, Texas, and have come to really enjoy this small town as an alternative to the hustle and bustle of other cities.  Below are my top five tips on why you should add Johnson City to your itinerary if you plan to visit the Texas Hill Country. First, a few details on weather and when to visit.   Johnson City, Texas Weather The weather in Johnson City is very similar to Austin but is typically a few degrees cooler.  The best times to visit this area are definitely spring and fall when temperatures are somewhere between 60 to 80 degrees (F). Winter can be hit or miss, but the true cold and occasional (rare) snow tend to happen in January or February. I really don’t recommend July or August, it’s just too hot to be outdoors unless you are in some type of water swimming or only want to stay indoors.  How To Get To Johnson City Flying: You will fly into either Austin Bergstrom Airport or San Antonio’s Airport, both of which are about an hour away. You will need a car, unless you want to pay a large fee to hire a driver. This is a great spot to combine with a visit to Fredericksburg or Dripping Springs.  Driving: Johnson City, Texas is located at the intersection of highways 290 (east and west) and 281 (north and south). From Austin, you’ll head west on 290, and from San Antonio, you’ll head north on 281.  Looking for somewhere to stay around Johnson City? Booking.com will search for hotels based on your criteria. Use the box below to start searching! 1. Growing Johnson City Wine Scene If you have heard of the Texas Hill Country already, then I’m probably not the first to tell you that it’s a huge area for wine. There are over 100 wineries dotting the Hill Country with 50+ between Fredericksburg, Johnson City, and Dripping Springs.  I like Johnson City for the tasting rooms that are all within walking distance in the city center. Within a 1 mile radius, you’ll find five spots to try a variety of wines. Here are a few of my favorites:  Crowson Wine – Specializing in minimal intervention in their wine making process, this winery offers a small selection of natural wines. (you can see in the picture below that the wines are not crystal clear – that is because they are natural and delicious!) The winemaker worked at a bigger establishment and left to make wine that he’s really passionate about. I can get behind that.  Details: Appointment only, but easy to schedule via text.  830.225.8880 Address: Tasting room recently closed – TBD on updated location!  Natural Wine at Crowson The Parlour  (now closed and has changed hands to Tatum Cellars) – This is a wine bar that features wine from Southhold Farm and Cellars. You can try wine by the flight or glass here, in a more informal atmosphere. They also have a number of natural wines that are really great, and a few light snacks.  Details: Open Thursday – Saturday from 3-9 pm. Sunday 1-6 pm.  Address: 109 N Nugent Ave, Johnson City, TX 78636  The Parlour Wine Bar, featuring wine from Southold Farm & Cellar Farmhouse Vineyards Marketplace – A tasting room for a winery based in the high plains of Texas. I like this location for their outdoor patio options, where we sat on rocking chairs watching the world go by. You can even taste wine in their renovated airstream trailer out front!  Details: Walk-ins welcome, but expect it to be busy on the weekend. Tasting costs $20/person.  Address: 402 E Main St, Johnson City, TX 78636 Farmhouse Vineyard Marketplace 2. LBJ’s Childhood Home Johnson City was settled by Lyndon B Johnson’s family and he was born not far from here. Most people also visit the state park named for him just down Highway 290 in Stonewall which has a living history farm, trails, and bison. His ranch is also near the state park.  LBJ’s boyhood home is located in the city center of Johnson City and Park Rangers offer free tours on the hour. Adjacent to the home is a visitors center and parkland with a trail that features several historic buildings.  Details: Hours are from 9:00 – 11:30 am, and 1:00 – 4:30 pm. Tours are free.  Address: 200 E Elm St, Johnson City, TX 78636 3. Johnson City Breweries The Hill Country is no stranger to brewing beer. You’ll find the highest concentration in Dripping Springs, but Johnson City has a few spots to try out too.  Pecan Street Brewing – This location is a restaurant and brewery in one. They have a full menu as well as wine and other beverages. We visited during Christmas time when they fully decorate and it’s quite the festive atmosphere.  Details: Open daily from 11 am – 8 pm on weekdays and 11 am – 9 pm on the weekend. During the holidays when the PEC lights (see below) are lit, there can be a really long wait.  Address: 106 E Pecan Dr, Johnson City, TX 78636 Reck ‘Em Right Brewing – If you need a beverage after touring LBJ’s boyhood home, Reck ‘Em Right is across the street! Their craft beer selection is small but changes often and uses a unique yeast called Kveik. We really liked most of the beers we tried, especially their Saison! They also have a BBQ truck on-site for food.  Details: *TEMPORARILY CLOSED MARCH 2025*  Address: 102 S Avenue G, Johnson City, TX 78636 Read More: Insider’s Travel Guide for Drippings Springs, Texas 4. Pedernales Electric Cooperative Christmas Lights A true Hill Country Christmas tradition, the Pedernales Electric Cooperative Lights are a sight to see. Thousands of lights wrap a grove of oak trees right outside the company’s headquarters.  Starting at the end of November through the beginning of January, you can view the lights nightly. Bring your thermos of hot chocolate and your warm jacket and wander in between the trees.  Address: 201 S Avenue F, Johnson City, TX 78636 5. The Laid-Back Small Town Feeling Remains While Fredericksburg has become the focal point of Texas Wine Country, it is also quite busy and more expensive. Johnson City has retained the laid-back and quaint small town feel.  There is not as much variety and selection as Austin or Fredericksburg, but sometimes that makes a visit so much easier. Don’t you think?  Outdoors Bonus: Pedernales Falls State Park Head East from Johnson City on 2766/Robinson Road and in 10 minutes you’ll arrive at Pedernales Falls State Park. If you are looking for hiking in Texas, this is your spot.  Hiking trails vary from easy to advanced, and short to long. The falls are a beautiful area where the water has weaved its way around the rock, and there are other scenic vistas throughout the park. You’ll also find an area to swim and camping spots for both tents and RVs.  Details: You’ll need to make a reservation in advance even if you just need a day pass. Cost is $13/person for ages 13 and up. Primitive campsites are $10/day, and campsites with water and electric hookups are $20/day. Click here for more details. Address: 2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636 Picnic’d Market If you are looking for a place to grab lunch in Johnson City, this is the place! Offering charcuterie boxes, sandwiches, wine by the glass, and more – this is a great stop. Located on N Ave G, this space used to house the wine production for Crowson. Offering wine by the glass as well.  I can’t wait to venture over to Johnson City again when I want quality wine or beer, some history, or that small town feel!  What do you love about Johnson City, Texas? Let me know in the comments! Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I really, really appreciate your support and could not continue this blog without you! 

The post 5 Reasons to Not Miss Johnson City, Texas on Your Hill Country Visit [Updated 2025] appeared first on Plan to Explore.

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Johnson City, Texas may not ring a bell to you. Nestled between Fredericksburg and Austin, this quaint town also has a lot to offer but without all the hype.  

I visit Johnson City quite often as I live only 20 minutes east in Dripping Springs, Texas, and have come to really enjoy this small town as an alternative to the hustle and bustle of other cities. 

Below are my top five tips on why you should add Johnson City to your itinerary if you plan to visit the Texas Hill Country. First, a few details on weather and when to visit.  

Johnson City, Texas Weather

The weather in Johnson City is very similar to Austin but is typically a few degrees cooler. 

The best times to visit this area are definitely spring and fall when temperatures are somewhere between 60 to 80 degrees (F). Winter can be hit or miss, but the true cold and occasional (rare) snow tend to happen in January or February. I really don’t recommend July or August, it’s just too hot to be outdoors unless you are in some type of water swimming or only want to stay indoors. 

How To Get To Johnson City

Flying: You will fly into either Austin Bergstrom Airport or San Antonio’s Airport, both of which are about an hour away. You will need a car, unless you want to pay a large fee to hire a driver. This is a great spot to combine with a visit to Fredericksburg or Dripping Springs. 

Driving: Johnson City, Texas is located at the intersection of highways 290 (east and west) and 281 (north and south). From Austin, you’ll head west on 290, and from San Antonio, you’ll head north on 281. 

Looking for somewhere to stay around Johnson City? Booking.com will search for hotels based on your criteria. Use the box below to start searching!

1. Growing Johnson City Wine Scene

If you have heard of the Texas Hill Country already, then I’m probably not the first to tell you that it’s a huge area for wine. There are over 100 wineries dotting the Hill Country with 50+ between Fredericksburg, Johnson City, and Dripping Springs. 

I like Johnson City for the tasting rooms that are all within walking distance in the city center. Within a 1 mile radius, you’ll find five spots to try a variety of wines. Here are a few of my favorites: 

Crowson Wine – Specializing in minimal intervention in their wine making process, this winery offers a small selection of natural wines. (you can see in the picture below that the wines are not crystal clear – that is because they are natural and delicious!) The winemaker worked at a bigger establishment and left to make wine that he’s really passionate about. I can get behind that. 

Details: Appointment only, but easy to schedule via text.  830.225.8880

Address: Tasting room recently closed – TBD on updated location! 

Crowson Wine, Johnson City, Texas, Plan to Explore
Natural Wine at Crowson

The Parlour  (now closed and has changed hands to Tatum Cellars) – This is a wine bar that features wine from Southhold Farm and Cellars. You can try wine by the flight or glass here, in a more informal atmosphere. They also have a number of natural wines that are really great, and a few light snacks. 

Details: Open Thursday – Saturday from 3-9 pm. Sunday 1-6 pm. 

Address: 109 N Nugent Ave, Johnson City, TX 78636 

The Parlour, Johnson City, TX, Plan to Explore
The Parlour Wine Bar, featuring wine from Southold Farm & Cellar

Farmhouse Vineyards Marketplace – A tasting room for a winery based in the high plains of Texas. I like this location for their outdoor patio options, where we sat on rocking chairs watching the world go by. You can even taste wine in their renovated airstream trailer out front! 

Details: Walk-ins welcome, but expect it to be busy on the weekend. Tasting costs $20/person. 

Address: 402 E Main St, Johnson City, TX 78636

Farmhouse Vineyard Marketplace, Johnson City, Plan to Explore
Farmhouse Vineyard Marketplace

2. LBJ's Childhood Home

Johnson City was settled by Lyndon B Johnson’s family and he was born not far from here. Most people also visit the state park named for him just down Highway 290 in Stonewall which has a living history farm, trails, and bison. His ranch is also near the state park. 

LBJ’s boyhood home is located in the city center of Johnson City and Park Rangers offer free tours on the hour. Adjacent to the home is a visitors center and parkland with a trail that features several historic buildings. 

Details: Hours are from 9:00 – 11:30 am, and 1:00 – 4:30 pm. Tours are free. 

Address: 200 E Elm St, Johnson City, TX 78636

3. Johnson City Breweries

The Hill Country is no stranger to brewing beer. You’ll find the highest concentration in Dripping Springs, but Johnson City has a few spots to try out too. 

Pecan Street Brewing – This location is a restaurant and brewery in one. They have a full menu as well as wine and other beverages. We visited during Christmas time when they fully decorate and it’s quite the festive atmosphere. 

Details: Open daily from 11 am – 8 pm on weekdays and 11 am – 9 pm on the weekend. During the holidays when the PEC lights (see below) are lit, there can be a really long wait. 

Address: 106 E Pecan Dr, Johnson City, TX 78636

Reck ‘Em Right Brewing – If you need a beverage after touring LBJ’s boyhood home, Reck ‘Em Right is across the street! Their craft beer selection is small but changes often and uses a unique yeast called Kveik. We really liked most of the beers we tried, especially their Saison! They also have a BBQ truck on-site for food. 

Details: *TEMPORARILY CLOSED MARCH 2025* 

Address: 102 S Avenue G, Johnson City, TX 78636

Reck Em Right Brewing, Johnson City, Texas, Plan to Explore

Read More: Insider's Travel Guide for Drippings Springs, Texas

4. Pedernales Electric Cooperative Christmas Lights

A true Hill Country Christmas tradition, the Pedernales Electric Cooperative Lights are a sight to see. Thousands of lights wrap a grove of oak trees right outside the company’s headquarters. 

Starting at the end of November through the beginning of January, you can view the lights nightly. Bring your thermos of hot chocolate and your warm jacket and wander in between the trees. 

Address: 201 S Avenue F, Johnson City, TX 78636

Johnson City Lights, Plan to Explore

5. The Laid-Back Small Town Feeling Remains

While Fredericksburg has become the focal point of Texas Wine Country, it is also quite busy and more expensive. Johnson City has retained the laid-back and quaint small town feel. 

There is not as much variety and selection as Austin or Fredericksburg, but sometimes that makes a visit so much easier. Don’t you think? 

TripAdvisor

Outdoors Bonus: Pedernales Falls State Park

Head East from Johnson City on 2766/Robinson Road and in 10 minutes you’ll arrive at Pedernales Falls State Park. If you are looking for hiking in Texas, this is your spot. 

Hiking trails vary from easy to advanced, and short to long. The falls are a beautiful area where the water has weaved its way around the rock, and there are other scenic vistas throughout the park. You’ll also find an area to swim and camping spots for both tents and RVs. 

Details: You’ll need to make a reservation in advance even if you just need a day pass. Cost is $13/person for ages 13 and up. Primitive campsites are $10/day, and campsites with water and electric hookups are $20/day. Click here for more details.

Address: 2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636

Pedernales Falls State Park, Plan to Explore

Picnic'd Market

If you are looking for a place to grab lunch in Johnson City, this is the place! Offering charcuterie boxes, sandwiches, wine by the glass, and more – this is a great stop. Located on N Ave G, this space used to house the wine production for Crowson. Offering wine by the glass as well. 

I can’t wait to venture over to Johnson City again when I want quality wine or beer, some history, or that small town feel! 

What do you love about Johnson City, Texas? Let me know in the comments!

Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I really, really appreciate your support and could not continue this blog without you! 

The post 5 Reasons to Not Miss Johnson City, Texas on Your Hill Country Visit [Updated 2025] appeared first on Plan to Explore.

]]> https://plantoexplore.com/johnson-city-texas/feed/ 6 Popular Wineries in Dripping Springs You’ll Want to Visit [Updated 2025] https://plantoexplore.com/wineries-in-dripping-springs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=wineries-in-dripping-springs https://plantoexplore.com/wineries-in-dripping-springs/#comments Tue, 20 Oct 2020 20:55:57 +0000 https://plantoexplore.com/?p=1960 The Texas Hill Country is best known for the many wineries stretching for miles along Highway 290 in Fredericksburg, but did you know there are amazing wineries in the town of Dripping Springs? Closer to Austin for easier access, this is a great location to consider for your hill country wine experience. Dripping Springs wineries offer more of a laid back, “hang out for a while” vibe which I really love.  If you are planning a trip to Dripping and love wine, or are traveling with someone who does, read on for the rundown on five of my favorite locations. Make sure you stick around for my winery pro tips at the bottom!  Where is Dripping Springs? Dripping Springs is located in the Texas Hill Country, about 30 minutes outside of Austin. Wineries start in Dripping and continue all the way into Fredericksburg (about 45 minutes away). Also about one hour north of San Antonio, and 4 hours south of Dallas for some perspective.  Three of the Dripping Springs wineries mentioned below are located off Bell Springs Road, one off of Fitzhugh, and another off the beaten path on McGregor.  When to visit Dripping Springs Dripping is really a great place to visit for most months of the year. If you want ideal weather for Dripping Springs wineries, I would visit in the Spring or the Fall. Summer temps really start to rise in late June – August. Most wineries offer tastings indoors, but I think part of the fun is enjoying a glass outdoors with views of the rolling hills.  Where to Stay in Dripping Springs Did you know that Dripping is also a top wedding location in Texas? The good news – that means lots of fun local accommodations in the area. I love finding unique stays, even in my own backyard. Below are a few other awesome options for you to check out and book!  Hill Country Casitas – A little bit off the beaten path, but offering a private retreat-like feel, these casitas are a fun option. Each casita offers an outdoor patio and hill country views. At least click to take a look at these little cottages! Quintessential Hill Country!  Lucky Arrow Retreat – This is such a unique place to stay in Dripping! Perched on a hilltop next to Bell Springs Winery/Brewery, the location is great. They offer upscale cabins and yurts, and amenities include a pool and an event space.  Click here or below to browse accommodations in Dripping!  Dripping Springs Wineries Hawk Shadow Estate Winery About: Hawk Shadow has the best Dripping  Springs wines hands down (according to my taste). I booked a cellar tour there and tasted both whites and reds, and all grapes are grown here in Central Texas or in the Texas High Plains. There was not a single wine that I was disappointed with. Oh and let me tell you about that cellar tour! Climb down a spiral staircase into a European style cool wine cellar with barrels lining both sides. I felt like I was transported back to Europe.  Tip: They are only “open” on Saturdays,  but you can call and request a tasting other days of the week.  Food: They have a cheese plate available.  Location: 7500 McGregor Ln, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Website for more details Love working from a coffee shop, or when you are traveling? A VPN conceals your IP address so hackers cannot access any of your data. I use it in airports, at coffee shops, and even if I want to access a website I’m not sure about!   I highly recommend Surfshark VPN!  Graveyard Vineyards About: All the way from Paso Robles in California, this winery doesn’t grow their grapes on-site, but they do offer some really delicious wine choices that are different from Texas. I have been impressed with their wines the multiple times I have visited. They moved their tasting room in 2025 to a building adjacent to Bell Springs Winery. Tastings, wines by the glass, and bottle are available. They share a lovely outdoor space with Bell Springs that is kid and dog friendly (although the tasting room is not kid friendly).  TIP: Even though they are not “Texas wines” I really think this is a great addition to your tour. It’s nice to switch up the grape varietals and taste something different! All of the staff are super friendly and love to answer your wine questions.  Food: Regular food truck onsite for both wineries. Sometimes there are events with food, so check out their calendar ahead of time.  Location: 3700 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Website for more details Bell Springs Winery & Brewery About: Wait a minute – a two for one location?? That’s right, Bell Springs has long been a winery in Dripping, but added brewing beer in 2019. They tasting room has a section for wine as well as one for beer. With two covered porches and a good amount of outdoor seating, this is an ideal location to lounge outside. Very dog and kid-friendly!  TIP: This is one of the most laid back wineries in the Hill Country. So if you like wine (and beer) in a relaxed atmosphere this is the place for you. Sunday is a perfect day here, Friday and Saturday can get busy with winery bus tours.  Food: There is a food truck on-site outside. This would be an ideal location to schedule a tasting around lunchtime so you can also grab food.  Location: 3700 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Website for more details Parmeson Wines About: This is a tasting room for wines that are grown and produced in Sonoma, California. Delicious quality wines and Pinot Noir, but a little on the expensive side compared to other Dripping Springs wineries. I like this as a quick stop for a tasting, especially if you’re working your way down Bell Springs Road.  Tip: This winery is located on Bell Springs but can be a little hard to find. It’s located down the same drive as the business Carved Stone.    Location: 5300 Bell Springs Rd Unit B, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Website for more details Solaro Winery About: Solaro has been a mainstay in Dripping Springs wineries for years. Focusing on Italian varietals (which grow well in Texas), you’ll be transported to Italy with their tasting. A patio with a pergola and view of the vines greets you as you walk up and into their beautiful but small tasting room.  Tip: Solaro is close to a lot of the breweries and distilleries along Fitzhugh Road so this could be part of a winery tour or even a Dripping Springs drink tour. (If you can handle it, haha). Making a tasting reservation is recommended. Location: 13111 Silver Creek Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Website for more details Want more Dripping info? Click to read my full Insider’s Travel Guide to Dripping Springs! Dripping Springs Wineries – Pro Tips Don’t forget to bring some winery essentials with you! I always make sure to keep a wine chiller in a cooler, a wine opener for those to-go bottles, water, and snacks for between stops. You’ll be the hero of the group – for real!   Consider hiring a driver or asking a friend (or boyfriend/husband) to be a designated driver. I have not personally used them but Slowpokes Wine Tours has pretty good reviews and are local.  We are outside the city in the Hill Country, and there can be bugs. I suggest closed-toe shoes especially if red ants tend to like you. Also, bug spray your ankles to be safe especially in late spring and summer. In summer sunscreen is essential. Have you been to any of these Dripping Springs wineries, or are they on your list? Let me know your favorite in the comments! Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. We really, really, really appreciate your support and could not continue this blog without you!

The post Popular Wineries in Dripping Springs You’ll Want to Visit [Updated 2025] appeared first on Plan to Explore.

]]>

The Texas Hill Country is best known for the many wineries stretching for miles along Highway 290 in Fredericksburg, but did you know there are amazing wineries in the town of Dripping Springs? Closer to Austin for easier access, this is a great location to consider for your hill country wine experience. Dripping Springs wineries offer more of a laid back, “hang out for a while” vibe which I really love. 

If you are planning a trip to Dripping and love wine, or are traveling with someone who does, read on for the rundown on five of my favorite locations. Make sure you stick around for my winery pro tips at the bottom! 

Where is Dripping Springs?

Dripping Springs is located in the Texas Hill Country, about 30 minutes outside of Austin. Wineries start in Dripping and continue all the way into Fredericksburg (about 45 minutes away). Also about one hour north of San Antonio, and 4 hours south of Dallas for some perspective. 

Three of the Dripping Springs wineries mentioned below are located off Bell Springs Road, one off of Fitzhugh, and another off the beaten path on McGregor. 

Dripping Springs Outdoors

When to visit Dripping Springs

Dripping is really a great place to visit for most months of the year. If you want ideal weather for Dripping Springs wineries, I would visit in the Spring or the Fall. Summer temps really start to rise in late June – August. Most wineries offer tastings indoors, but I think part of the fun is enjoying a glass outdoors with views of the rolling hills. 

Where to Stay in Dripping Springs

Did you know that Dripping is also a top wedding location in Texas? The good news – that means lots of fun local accommodations in the area. I love finding unique stays, even in my own backyard. Below are a few other awesome options for you to check out and book! 

Hill Country Casitas – A little bit off the beaten path, but offering a private retreat-like feel, these casitas are a fun option. Each casita offers an outdoor patio and hill country views. At least click to take a look at these little cottages! Quintessential Hill Country! 

Lucky Arrow Retreat – This is such a unique place to stay in Dripping! Perched on a hilltop next to Bell Springs Winery/Brewery, the location is great. They offer upscale cabins and yurts, and amenities include a pool and an event space. 

Click here or below to browse accommodations in Dripping! 

Dripping Springs Wineries

Hawk Shadow Estate Winery

About: Hawk Shadow has the best Dripping  Springs wines hands down (according to my taste). I booked a cellar tour there and tasted both whites and reds, and all grapes are grown here in Central Texas or in the Texas High Plains. There was not a single wine that I was disappointed with. Oh and let me tell you about that cellar tour! Climb down a spiral staircase into a European style cool wine cellar with barrels lining both sides. I felt like I was transported back to Europe. 

Tip: They are only “open” on Saturdays,  but you can call and request a tasting other days of the week. 

Food: They have a cheese plate available. 

Location: 7500 McGregor Ln, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Website for more details

Surfshark VPN

Love working from a coffee shop, or when you are traveling? A VPN conceals your IP address so hackers cannot access any of your data. I use it in airports, at coffee shops, and even if I want to access a website I’m not sure about!

 

I highly recommend Surfshark VPN! 

Graveyard Vineyards

About: All the way from Paso Robles in California, this winery doesn’t grow their grapes on-site, but they do offer some really delicious wine choices that are different from Texas. I have been impressed with their wines the multiple times I have visited. They moved their tasting room in 2025 to a building adjacent to Bell Springs Winery. Tastings, wines by the glass, and bottle are available. They share a lovely outdoor space with Bell Springs that is kid and dog friendly (although the tasting room is not kid friendly). 

TIP: Even though they are not “Texas wines” I really think this is a great addition to your tour. It’s nice to switch up the grape varietals and taste something different! All of the staff are super friendly and love to answer your wine questions. 

Food: Regular food truck onsite for both wineries. Sometimes there are events with food, so check out their calendar ahead of time. 

Location: 3700 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Website for more details

Bell Springs Winery & Brewery

Bell Springs Winery Dripping Springs, Plan to Explore

About: Wait a minute – a two for one location?? That’s right, Bell Springs has long been a winery in Dripping, but added brewing beer in 2019. They tasting room has a section for wine as well as one for beer. With two covered porches and a good amount of outdoor seating, this is an ideal location to lounge outside. Very dog and kid-friendly! 

TIP: This is one of the most laid back wineries in the Hill Country. So if you like wine (and beer) in a relaxed atmosphere this is the place for you. Sunday is a perfect day here, Friday and Saturday can get busy with winery bus tours. 

Food: There is a food truck on-site outside. This would be an ideal location to schedule a tasting around lunchtime so you can also grab food. 

Location: 3700 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Website for more details

Parmeson Wines

About: This is a tasting room for wines that are grown and produced in Sonoma, California. Delicious quality wines and Pinot Noir, but a little on the expensive side compared to other Dripping Springs wineries. I like this as a quick stop for a tasting, especially if you’re working your way down Bell Springs Road. 

Tip: This winery is located on Bell Springs but can be a little hard to find. It’s located down the same drive as the business Carved Stone.   

Location: 5300 Bell Springs Rd Unit B, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Website for more details

Solaro Winery

Solaro Winery, Plan to Explore

About: Solaro has been a mainstay in Dripping Springs wineries for years. Focusing on Italian varietals (which grow well in Texas), you’ll be transported to Italy with their tasting. A patio with a pergola and view of the vines greets you as you walk up and into their beautiful but small tasting room. 

Tip: Solaro is close to a lot of the breweries and distilleries along Fitzhugh Road so this could be part of a winery tour or even a Dripping Springs drink tour. (If you can handle it, haha). Making a tasting reservation is recommended.

Location: 13111 Silver Creek Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Website for more details

Want more Dripping info? Click to read my full Insider's Travel Guide to Dripping Springs!

Dripping Springs Wineries - Pro Tips

  • Don’t forget to bring some winery essentials with you! I always make sure to keep a wine chiller in a cooler, a wine opener for those to-go bottles, water, and snacks for between stops. You’ll be the hero of the group – for real!  
  • Consider hiring a driver or asking a friend (or boyfriend/husband) to be a designated driver. I have not personally used them but Slowpokes Wine Tours has pretty good reviews and are local. 
  • We are outside the city in the Hill Country, and there can be bugs. I suggest closed-toe shoes especially if red ants tend to like you. Also, bug spray your ankles to be safe especially in late spring and summer. In summer sunscreen is essential.

Have you been to any of these Dripping Springs wineries, or are they on your list? Let me know your favorite in the comments!

Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. We really, really, really appreciate your support and could not continue this blog without you!

The post Popular Wineries in Dripping Springs You’ll Want to Visit [Updated 2025] appeared first on Plan to Explore.

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