2015 tourism guide

2015 TOURISM GUIDE

Boots to

Beaches www.txcoastalbend.org

Texas Coastal Bend Regional Tourism Council © 2015 Texas Coastal Bend

Regional Tourism Council (TCBRTC)

361-241-7323; email at info@txcoastalbend.org

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6-48 50 51 52-53 54-55

Communities State & National Parks Business Members Calendar of Events Texas Coastal Bend Map

2015 TCBRTC OFFICERS President Nancy Deviney

Lake Corpus Christi, Executive Director Texas Tropical Trail Region Heritage Tourism Program

Vice President Sandy Jumper

Director of Tourism and Events Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce

Secretary Claire Barnhart Korth

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: This is the 2015 Edition of the Texas Coastal Bend Regional Tourism Council Guide.

All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, in any manner is prohibited without written permission. Produced by Real Hometown Media, LLC, 201 E. Main Street, Alice, Texas, 78332 www.alice24-7.com

0wner of Barnhart Q5 Ranch & Retreat in Goliad County

Executive Director Ann Neese

Corpus Christi

Where the Big Fun Begins.

Fishing, birding, boating and coastal cuisine.

Learn what Rockport-Fulton has to offer. www.rockport-fulton.org @ visitrockportfulton

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TCBRTC MEMBER COMMUNITIES Alice Chamber of Commerce

Goliad Co. Chamber of Commerce

361-526-2835

P.O. Box 1609, Alice, TX, 78333,

P.O. Box 606, Goliad, TX, 77963,

refugiocountytx.org

361-664-3454

361-645-3563

www.alicetxchamber.org

www.goliadcc.org

A

Refugio Co. Community Development Foundation

Ingleside Chamber of Commerce

301 N. Alamo Street

130 W. Goodnight, A.P, TX, 78336

Aransas Pass C of C

P.O. Box 686, Ingleside, TX, 78362,

Refugio, TX, 78377

1-800-633-3028

361-776-2906

361-526-2011

www.aransaspass.org

www.inglesidetxchamber.org

Bee County Chamber of Commerce

Ingleside on the Bay

Commission

1705 N. St. Mary’s,Beeville, TX, 78102

449 Woodhaven, Ingleside, TX, 78362

P. O. Box 111, Robstown, TX, 78380,

361-358-3267

361-776-3634

Robstown Area Development

www.beecountychamber.org

361-387-3933 www.robstownadc.com

Jackson Co. C of C & Agriculture

City of Kingsville

P. O. Box 788, Edna, TX, 77957-0788

Rockport-Fulton Area C of C

200 E. Kleberg Ave.,

361-782-7146

319 Broadway, Rockport, TX, 78382

Kingsville, TX, 78363

jacksoncountytexas.com

361-592-8516 cityofkingsville.com

361-729-6445 www.rockport-fulton.org

Kenedy Chamber of Commerce P. O. Box 570, Kenedy, TX, 78119

San Patricio EDC

Corpus Christi CVB

830-583-3223

P.O. Box 238, Hwy. 361

500 N. Shoreline, Ste. 420,

kenedychamber.org

Gregory, TX, 78359

Palacios Chamber of Commerce

sanpatricioedc.com

Corpus Christi, TX, 78401, 361-881-1820 www.visitcorpuschristitx.org

361-643-4744 420 Main, Palacios, TX, 77465 361-972-2615

Cuero C of C & Agriculture

www.palacioschamber.com

124 E. Church, Cuero, TX, 77954,

Three Rivers Chamber of Commerce P. O. Box 1648, Three Rivers, TX, 78071

361-275-2112

Port Aransas C of C/Tourist Bureau

361-786-4330

www.cuero.org

403 W Cotter, Port Aransas, TX, 78373

threeriverstx.org

Friends of Aransas

www.portaransas.org

Victoria Convention &

P. O. Box 74, Austwell, TX, 77979

Port Lavaca Chamber of Commerce

P. O. Box 1758, Victoria, TX, 77902

361-286-3559

2300 Highway 35 North,

361-485-3116

friendsofaransas.org

Port Lavaca, TX, 77979

www.visitvictoriatexas.com

361-749-5919 & Matagorda Island

Visitors Bureau

George West Chamber of Commerce

361-552-2959

P.O. Box 359, George West, TX, 78022

www.portlavacainfo.com

www.georgewest.org

Yorktown Economic Development Corp.

361-449-2033 Refugio County C of C

141 S. Riedel, Yorktown, TX, 78164

301 N. Alamo St., Refugio, TX, 78377

361-564-2661; www.yorktowntx.com

F th V a

ALICE, TEXAS

Welcome to Alice, Texas – a charming Southern community home to more than 19,000 residents and a strong economy fueled by the petroleum industry. The city received its name in honor of Alice King Kleberg, the daughter of one of the founders of the famed King Ranch. Alice serves as the seat of government for Jim Wells County and is regularly referred to as the “Hub City,” thanks to its location between several major cities. This strategic location has distinguished Alice as an exceptional distribution center in South Texas. The city is positioned at the crossroads of U.S. Route 281 and State Route 44, with easy access to I-10, I-35, I-37 and numerous other thoroughfares.

The city’s Parks and Recreation Department maintains a number of park sites, game fields and facilities in the community. The department provides a calendar year full of family-oriented programming, including aquatics, athletics, senior services and a long list of exciting events. Among these events are the Hispanic Heritage Festival, 4th of July Celebration, Jim Wells County Fair, Veterans Day Celebration and Christmas events.

The area is great for those who enjoy the outdoors.

Plenty of open spaces dot the landscape, as does a large wildlife population. Hunting, fishing, camping and bird watching are among the many popular pastimes enjoyed in Alice. Golfers also have plenty of opportunities to spend a day out on the greens, as the community hosts two well-maintained golf courses: the 18-hole Alice Municipal Golf Course and the nine-hole Alice Country Club.

The South Texas Museum features exhibits on the history and traditions of the region, while the Tejano R.O.O.T.S. Hall of Fame Museum celebrates the area’s rich Tejano culture. The museum honors various Tejano artists, musicians and the other figures in entertainment.

For more information on the City of Alice, contact the Alice Chamber of Commerce/Alice Convention Visitors Bureau at (361) 664-3454 or online at www. alicetxchamber.org

Alice also features two statues-one of Jose de Escandon, the man who explored and settled the South Texas region, and the other of Lucien Flournoy, an active member of the community. And don’t forget to stop by the world’s tallest cement water tower, as designated by the Guinness Book of Records in 1976. Visitors can view the 165-foot tower, built in 1926-1927, in downtown Alice.

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Alice The Birthplace of Tejano Music Alice was established in 1888 and named after the daughter of Captain Richard King, who established the King Ranch. Historically, the community is associated with cattle, the vaquero and the American cowboy. Alice was noted as the world’s largest cattle shipping point from 1888 to 1895.

The richness of the area’s history is displayed in the South Texas Museum near downtown.

Several museums share historical artifacts of Alice and South Texas. The South Texas Museum offers an overview of the early days in the Hub City.

The Tejano R.O.O.T.S. Museum showcases Tejano artists and legends in the Birthplace of Tejano’s music museum. La Copita Ranch, located near Alice in Jim Wells County, encompasses 2700 acres of rangeland. The ranch is available for family, business or group activities and offers birding, butterfly watching and some hunting.

Outdoor Adventures Alice and its surrounding areas have an abundance of wildlife. Hunting, fishing and bird watching are favorite activities. A variety of wild game hunting opportunities are available from Texas Parks and

Wildlife. Lined with mesquite trees, the Alice Municipal Golf Course is the largest of the city’s two golf courses, with 18 holes on 5,911 yards of long fairways and greens. The Alice Country Club Golf Course offers 9 holes. Special Rates are available for Winter Texans. South Texas and Jim Wells County offer an endless vacation climate with the amenities of a world-class resort nearby.

We enjoy year-round outdoor activities including golfing, hiking, camping and boating. Saltwater and freshwater fishing combined with a thriving wildlife population all await the outdoor enthusiast.

For those who prefer their entertainment indoors, there are a variety of theater groups, symphonies, art galleries and dance companies nearby.

Museums, zoos, aquariums and historic sites abound, adding a Texas flair to your educational outings. And with Old Mexico right next door, international excursions are a short drive away.

Alice, Texas, the county seat of Jim Wells County, is centrally located in South Texas, making it a commercial center for petroleum industry, tourism, healthcare, agribusiness and distribution to surrounding areas.

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Alice, Texas The Birthplace of Tejano Music

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The combination of a growing industry, an outstanding education system, an abundance of wildlife, and economic activity for the region makes Alice a favorite among residents and visitors alike.

And, coming soon....The new Alice Multi-Use Complex will be a true showplace for the City of Alice and a place of which the entire region can be proud. It will give us the opportunity to come together as a community for special events as well as to invite visitors to stay awhile and enjoy the many amenities Alice has to offer. When completed, in March 2015, the Multi-Use Complex will include the following: • Banquet facilities • Meeting rooms • Indoor competitive pool • Outdoor leisure pool

• Water slides and a lazy river • Outdoor amphitheater that seats 5,000 • 100+ room hotel Call the Alice Convention & Visitors Bureau/Chamber of Commerce at 877-992-5423 or visit www.alicetxchamber.org.

Jim Wells County: A County Full of History

Jim Wells County was created from 846 square miles of Nueces County on March 11, 1911.

The town of Alice was named its county seat. The famous Chisholm Trail passed through Jim Wells County. Two of the trail markers are found in Alice, one at the intersection of Highway 44 and Flournoy Road and the other on the southeast corner of Main and Almond streets.

Jim Wells County stretches north to the city of Orange Grove, which was founded by people of German and Welsh decent. During the early 1830s, the Mexican government encouraged Mexican and European settlers to come to the region by offering large land grants. Some of the settlements established at this time were Los Presnos, Lara, Palito Blanco, La Trinidad and Armagosa. Some of the oldest communities in the county developed from these original land grants. When Jim Wells County was formed, a bond issue for $70,000 was passed to build a new courthouse.

The town of Premont is the southernmost city in the county. Premont was part of the Los Olmos y Loma Blanca land grant issued to Ignacio de la Peña on December 9, 1831. Peña and his heirs occupied the land for the next thirty years. In 1908, Premont was founded by Charles Premont, for whom it was named, and Andrés Canales, who established a general store there. With a population of about 2,500, the southernmost community in Jim Wells County continues to thrive.

During the period of 1890-1900, Alice was nicknamed “The Windmill City,” because there were so many windmills in the immediate vicinity.

In 1938, Alice was still a small country town of 5,000 people. When the first commercial oil production was brought in, the population jumped to 15,000 in five years. The first oil activity of any importance in the county was in 1936. The first major oil producer, The Texas Royalty Corp. and Lucy Petroleum Co., No. 1 Ralston, was established on April 23, 1936, eight miles northeast of Alice.

This field was designated as the Bentonville Field. The oil rush days brought many new families to Jim Wells County. Much of the Jim Wells County history can be found at the South Texas Museum, which is a Texas Historical Landmark.

PHOTO OF COURTHOUSE 1911

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Aransas Pass A Fisherman’s Paradise Aransas Pass offers cool breezes and unique crystal clear waters, beautiful sea grass and the best bay fishing in the State of Texas. Aransas Pass prides itself on maintaining its charming small town atmosphere while hosting many professional fishing guides, kayak facilities, birding areas, parks, a terrific aquatic center, wonderful downtown shops, restaurants, historic live theatre, and the most state-of-the-art Civic Center in the entire region. A mild year-round climate with delightful weather makes it an ideal vacation spot equally attractive to summer and winter visitors.

Aransas Pass is known for its shrimping heritage and its recreational fishing. Each year Aransas Pass celebrates its shrimping heritage in June with the Shrimporee with live entertainment, a carnival, arts and crafts booths and shrimp cooked in a variety of ways.

There are many marinas and boat ramps available, with the largest at the historic Conn Brown Harbor.

This picturesque harbor setting is a favorite spot for photographers and is a preferred location to purchase fresh seafood…right off the boat. While at the Harbor, pay a visit to the Seaman’s Memorial Tower. The beautiful memorial is dedicated to those who have lost their lives at sea.

Coastal bay and gulf fishing are among the best in Texas. Take advantage of our bay systems which offer year-round pleasure with a variety of fish including the prolific Redfish. Join a deep-sea charter, hire a guide, or launch your own boat.

Fourteen different species of ducks frequent our hunting region. Our vast shallow bays offer hunter’s bag limits of duck and geese. Crabbing, beachcombing, dolphin and bird watching are quiet pursuits designed to get you outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine. Nearly 500 species of birds travel through Aransas Pass. Some of the best bird watching in the U.S. is found in the Aransas

Pass Nature Park within the 36-acre Aransas Pass Community Park bordering Redfish Bay. This area is a haven for regional and migrating birds. Marshy and spotted with many fish breeding ponds, the area is abundant in species of waterfowl. One local favorite site is Newberry Park.

The 1.2 acre small central city park is landscaped to attract birds, hummingbirds and butterflies as they pass through.

The Aransas Pass Lighthouse Lakes Trails are marked with GPS coordinates and trail signs for kayakers. They abut a top fishing destination, Redfish Bay, which abounds in wading birds and waterfowl. There are a series of three individual, but interconnected, trails that can be easily accessed and followed by a series of trail markers.

Come paddle through one of the most pristine and beautiful tidal flats on the Texas Gulf Coast. For those that enjoy more of a theme park, the Aransas Pass Aquatic Center is fun for the whole family.

Waterslides, a 50,000 gallon kiddie pool, diving boards and fountains are just some of the fun to be had.

If indoors is more your style, go shopping in one of our many unique downtown shops where you’ll find nautical art, Texas originals, antiques and more.

Visit the Rialto Theater for a dose of history and art. Stop by on Tuesday nights for live music.

Aransas Pass has hotels and rental accommodations that include many luxury RV parks. The many restaurants boast the local flavor of seafood, grilled steaks and family style menus.

No matter how you spend your time in Aransas Pass, you will be sure to go home with plenty of great memories. Plan your next vacation adventure with us or stay for the rest of your life.

For more information, contact the Aransas Pass Chamber of Commerce at 361-758-2750/1-800-633-3028 or visit www.aransaspass.org.

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Bayside, Texas The Fennessey Ranch We are 3,500 acres of richly diverse habitat such as fresh water marshes, upland woodlands and 9 miles of Mission River with incredible riparian habitat. We are located in Refugio County within the central flyaway where we have recorded over 400 species of birds.

We have 30 miles of hiking and biking trails and gravel roads for you to record your sightings on one of our legendary hayrides tours. We call these our Bird Watching Tours, they include a guide and unlimited time and access to the most primitive

areas of the ranch. One of our more popular attractions are the Wildlife Photography Blinds that are available for daily rentals and are also utilized for our Sharpshooters Photography Club.

The Fennessey Ranch is privately owned by Brien O’Connor Dunn and the property has been a part of his family’s holdings for over 200 years. All tours and visits to the ranch are by reservation only. All tours employ a ranch guide and/or an expert birding guide. Call (361)529-6600.

Submitted by Jeannie Dahl, Event Coordinator, Fennessey Ranch

Beeville, Texas Bee County Historical Society “The Bee County Historical Society was organized to discover, procure and preserve whatever may relate to the natural, civil, literary and ecclesiastical history of the United States of America in general and to the State of Texas and County of Bee, in particular, and to establish and maintain collections in art, history, crafts and archeology.”

The Historic McClanahan House is open the first Sunday of every month. The house was constructed in 1867 and is the oldest business structure still standing in our county.

A photography “show-n-sell” will be held in February 2015. Several local photographers will show their best photos at the McClanahan House and folks will be invited to come see and buy.

In March, 2015, BCHS will kick off our Second Annual Bee County Living History Celebration.

We will have musical entertainment, story telling, games, demonstrations of all types of historical living, and assorted vendors.

In December 2015, the 5th Annual Christmas Tree

forest will be held at the Historic McClanahan House.

Check the Bee County Historical Society on Facebook for up-to-date information. “LIKE” the page and you can see timeline updates. We will be posting dates and times of more events to come. We love our county and want to share its wealth of history.

Link: www.facebook.com/BeeCountyHistoricalSociety Photo credit: Sylvia Garcia-Smith, Beeville, Texas, Bee County Historical Society member

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Berclair, Texas Barnhart Q5 - Ranch & Nature Retreat If your goal is spectacular birding or you just want to get away from the crowds, the Barnhart Q5 Ranch & Nature Retreat, <http:// w w w. b a r n h a r t r a n c h r e t r e a t . c o m > w w w. b a r n h a r t r a n c h r e t r e a t . c o m < h t t p : / / w w w. barnhartranchretreat.com>, on the Northwestern side of Goliad County offers a perfect combination of housing and nature retreat in a private environment. The ranch is a TPWD Land Steward Award winner, striving to balance ranching with ongoing conservation and enhancement of native habitat with an emphasis on birding.

Guest housing is comfortable and reasonable with all the amenities of home. You can sit on the front porch in a rocker and enjoy the birds as they surround the houses - over 183 species have been

documented here - or, hike, bike or rent a golf cart and cruise the miles of trails scattered throughout the 706-acre property.

Guests comment on the peace and quiet and how renewing it is. Many couples have spent their anniversaries on the ranch, finding it provides them time together without all the interruptions of the world. The ranch has one of the darkest skies in the region so guests can enjoy stargazing from a platform built on one of the ranch’s highest hills. Children and adults are always invited to participate in a nature hike, cattle roundup, or grooming a Mediterranean miniature donkey or two when they’re ready for a new experience!

Top pic, 1877 Restored Maetze Guest House. Left, Claire Barnhart with some of the ranch’s miniature donkey gals. Submitted

Cinnamon Shore Cinnamon Shore is a pedestrian-friendly planned community located on Mustang Island just off the coast of Corpus Christi and nestled behind 300 feet of protective dunes. Designed in the tradition of yesterday’s classic neighborhoods, but with all the amenities including: Beautiful beaches; Pools and parks; Paved sidewalks along palm-lined streets; Stocked lakes; Fishing Pavilion and Boardwalk; Town Center is comprised of a restaurant, an

Ba entertainment stage and Town Center Residences.

Once completed, Cinnamon Shore will have approximately 300 homes and Town Center Residences, as well as a retail plaza boasting additional restaurants, shops and a spa. Cinnamon Shore also is a vacation rental community. www.cinnamonshore.com

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Corpus Christi, Texas A Vacationer’s Getaway Experience Corpus Christi to discover a rich blend of nature, culture, history and unique entertainment. As Texas’ largest coastal city, it boasts sea, sun and fun!

The beauty of Corpus Christi’s waterfront, bay and seawall is a favorite for visitors as well as locals.

Kick back and relax at the marina watching colorful sails, join in the fun with the Wednesday night sailboat races, or take in a spectacular sunset with the lights of the Harbor Bridge reflecting off the water.

Upper Padre Island Located on the central Texas coast of the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi is the gateway to Padre Island National Seashore. Just a 30-minute drive from downtown, Upper Padre Island is one of only a few nesting grounds in the world for the endangered Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles.

Padre Island beaches stretch more than 100 miles along the Gulf, so there is always a perfect spot waiting for you. Here visitors will find famed conditions for water sports such as kiteboarding, windsurfing, jet skiing, kayaking and sport fishing.

Shopping Corpus Christi is home to many wonderful retailers with all you could ever want. Make La Palmera your shopping destination for “ordinary turned extraordinary.” For a unique experience grab some girlfriends, browse the shops at Lamar Park, The Village, Water Street Market or Bleu Frog Mercantile. Show this ad at Concierge.

USS Lexington Museum Step aboard this WWII era aircraft carrier and

history takes flight. The Virtual Battle Stations landing aircraft on the Flight Deck and engaging in battle feel like reality; and to complete your experience stop in the 3-D Imax theatre. Around every corner and down every tunnel, an adventure unfolds. It’s a complete interactive experience for the entire family.

Texas State Aquarium Discover the amazing underwater world of the Texas State Aquarium on an aquatic journey from the shore to the depths of the Gulf of Mexico; with

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Corpus Christi, Texas A Vacationer’s Getaway dive shows, animal feedings, training sessions and hands-on programs with sharks and stingrays. Be sure to pack the kids’ swimsuits. If they don’t get splashed in a dolphin show, they can cool down in the zero-depth HEB Splash Park.

South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center FLORA, FAUNA & FUN! This contemporary rather outside-the-box nature tourism delight is not our grandmother’s botanical garden! Venture into the 2600 square foot screened Butterfly House, and Anderson Bromeliad Conservatory. More naturalistic garden design can be found in the imaginative sculpture-filled Sensory Garden, quaint Hummingbird Garden, scenic Arid Garden, and landmark Rose Garden - a favorite wedding venue.

The cornerstone Larkin Memorial Orchid House hits peak blooming during April, May, June and October. A ramp and covered viewing platform in the Plumeria Garden allow tree-top views of fragrant red, pink, yellow and white blooms May through October. This variety of modern, stylistic floral exhibits and gardens pose stark contrasts to the Mary Hope Brennecke Nature Trail linking mesquite forest, bronze Ullberg wildlife sculptures, birding tower, Gator Lake, rustic Palapa Grande and natural wetland boardwalk. The resident Reptiles in the Visitors Center, colorful exotic

parrots scattered throughout floral exhibits and delightful Nature’s Boutique gift shop make for a Flora, Fauna and Fun approach to nature tourism!

The Art Museum of South Texas Ansel Adams was a visionary figure in nature photography and wilderness preservation. He is seen as an environmental folk hero and a symbol of the American West, especially of Yosemite National Park. Adams’ dedication to wilderness preservation, his commitment to the Sierra Club, and of course his signature black-and-white photographs inspire an appreciation for natural beauty and a strong conservation ethic. This collection of over 120 photographs comes from Adams’ personal collection, owned by his family.

The exhibition will only be seen in two American museums, including the Art Museum of South Texas.

The show includes iconic landscapes by Adams as well as agricultural and urban images and portraits, all in keeping with its western focus.

Even those familiar with the photographs of Ansel Adams will find something new and exciting. The exhibit offers a rare and intimate look into the development of the photographer, his relationships and his vision for what he held dear. Planned education programs during the exhibit are two free Family Days, free First Fridays, lectures with Adams family members and youth and adult photography workshops. Call for more information or visit the Museum website.

Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History is a must see for every age. Explore the remains of three Spanish treasure ships that ran aground on Padre Island in 1554. Visit the Columbus

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Corpus Christi, Texas A Vacationer’s Getaway Quincentenary exhibit and learn about the beginning of Columbus’ 15th century voyage to the New World. Watch children’s imaginations come alive in the interactive Children’s Wharf exhibit.

It’s For the Birds!

Perfectly positioned at the cross roads of two major flyways, Corpus Christi is “America’s Birdiest City” for the last decade. Hundreds of bird species stop to rest during spring and fall migrations. Blucher Park, known worldwide, is a four-acre pocket park attracting bird watchers year round in search of flycatchers, thrushes, vireos, warblers, chimney

swifts and dozens more species. The Hans and Pat Suter Wildlife Refuge is often crowded with shorebirds, waterfowl, and butterflies.

This is a popular spot for birders and nature photographers to explore. Land birds and raptors occur in surprising numbers too. Corpus Christi is home to the largest and most diverse raptor migration platform in the U.S., averaging over 730,000 hawks and falcons each year. Hazel Bazemore County Park is famous for its massive hawk migration in the fall, peaking in late September and early October.

When Cuatro, age 7, went fishing with his family this year, he had no idea what he might catch. And he never, ever thought it would be this whopper, a 40lb Dorado that he reeled in just off the coast of Corpus Christi. Memories are most definitely made here in the Texas Coastal Bend, and it’s high time to create some for yourself. Catch some reds on the beach or trout in the back bays.

Go giggin for flounder on a midnight run or crabbing right on the jetties. Or maybe even snag a Dorado, just like Cuatro did. Plan your trip online and don’t forget the tape measure and a camera, because memories are made here.

VisitCorpusChristiTX.org or 800.766.BEACH (2322)

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Corpus Christi, Texas A Vacationerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Getaway Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Our Nature!

The Coastal Bend region provides some 150 nature sites for outdoor lovers to hike, tour, explore and photograph. Corpus Christi has Waves, Wings, and Wildlife...For the best nature experience contact a local Certified Wildlife Guide trained to guarantee a memorable experience.

Action-Packed Sports Corpus Christi is action packed with fun for every fan. Baseball brings crowds to their feet cheering for the home team, the Corpus Christi Hooks, from April through September at Whataburger

Field. And when the Hooks step off the diamond, the Ice Rays slide into the rink. Corpus Christi is also home to collegiate level sports at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi.

Call the Corpus Christi Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-766-2322 or visit www.VisitCorpusChristiTx.org. Photos from CVB website.

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Corpus Christi, Texas The USS Lexington If the sheer size of the aircraft carrier USS LEXINGTON doesn’t drop your jaw, the adventure inside definitely will!

She’s a National Historic Landmark and one of the top attractions in Texas. And at 910 feet, 33,000 tons and 16 decks, she’s colossal and a mammoth experience. Speaking of Giant, the three-story tall 3D MEGA Theater makes jets roar louder, helicopters loom larger and flying enormously realistic. Even the Scale Model Gallery is huge, with over 370 handmade miniature replicas on display.

The Virtual Battle Stations are an interactive experience that puts you behind the controls. The Flight Simulator launches you into real combat; and around every corner, up every ladder and down every passageway, a story unfolds.

The sights and sounds are so real you become a part of this epic story as you follow LEX and her crew from Pearl Harbor and the Philippine Sea to Tokyo.

overnight youth camp-outs.

800-LADY-LEX, www.usslexington.com.

Butterfly House Bromeliad Conservatory Orchid House Plumeria Roses & More!

Open Daily 9a-6p 8545 S Staples St Corpus Christi

361.852.2100 stxbot.org

It’s a complete interactive experience for the entire family. LEX is open daily at 9 a.m. (closed Christmas and Thanksgiving Days) with all areas except flight and hangar decks air-conditioned.

Aboard ship you’ll find the Mess Deck and Ship’s Store. Available for private functions as well as National landmark

Open Daily On NORTH BEACH 1- 800 - LA DY- LEX USSLEXINGTON.COM

Awesome WWII Aircraft Carrier • WWI I Planes & Jets • Virtual Battle Stations Over 250,000 S q. Ft. & 11 Decks to Explore & Tour • Huge Battle Guns Behind The Scenes Hard Hat Tour • Miniature Scale Model Exhibit Flight Experience Simulator • Mess Deck • Ship’s Store 3D Mega Theater Ticket wit h Admission 1 on

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Cuero, Texas A Storied Community Cuero’s story begins when it was founded in 1873, an unruly place until the arrival of Indianola residents following the devastating hurricanes of 1875 and 1886. Many Indianola homes and businesses were disassembled and moved inland to Cuero. Cuero was a bustling city by the turn of the century. Much of the beautiful architecture from that era still remains. Over 50 buildings and homes, most notably the DeWitt County Courthouse, are registered on the state and national registers of historic places. Driving tours of historic structures and unique murals sprinkled throughout local businesses are available at the Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center.

Cuero is a community full of annual events.

Beginning in the spring, Cuero and DeWitt County celebrate the natural beauty of Texas wildflowers.

Over 1,000 different flora species have been catalogued in the county. The community celebrates with many activities that educate and inform visitors of the wildflowers. Each April, colorcoded route maps that help visitors find the best views of wildflowers are available at the Wildflower Headquarters located at the Cuero Chamber of Commerce Agriculture & Visitor’s Center.

Additionally, a featured photography exhibit is also displayed in the Cuero Heritage Museum which is also located in the same historic building that the Chamber. In July, the Annual Fourth of July Celebration, held at the Cuero Park Pavilion and sponsored by Grace Episcopal Church, is a wholesome community-wide event filled with oldfashioned booths and activities such as a dunking booth, watermelon seed spitting contest and hula hoop contests to keep everyone - no matter what their age - busy and entertained. End your evening with the highlight of the day, a beautiful fireworks display held at dusk at the City Park.

Held the second full weekend of October, it celebrates Cuero’s designation as “Turkey Capital of the World” when many of the farmers produced turkeys over 50 years ago. Diverse entertainment includes a giant parade, arts and crafts booths, food booths, carnival, street dances, and fun for the whole family.

During the holidays bring your family and friends and experience Cuero’s “Christmas in the Park” lighted driving tour. The mile-long tour includes over 150 hand-painted and lighted Christmas displays, a twinkling trail of snowflakes, gingerbread houses, and animated silhouette scenes all sponsored by local businesses, schools, community organizations and individuals of Cuero. “Christmas in the Park” begins the fourth Monday of November and continues throughout the holiday season with Thursday nights designated as free hot chocolate nights for visitors and a live Nativity nightly in mid-December. Christmas in the Park is located on Highway 87 South in Cuero’s Municipal Park.

The Guadalupe River provides activities for the avid river fisherman or the experienced river paddler. An annual 45-mile canoe race, is held in Cuero. This race is the preliminary race of the Texas Water Safari, a 260-mile canoe race which is held in June and runs from San Marcos to Seadrift, Texas. As a birding bonus, Cuero is site #28 on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail; maps are available at the Chamber of Commerce office.

Come visit DeWitt County with its rolling hills and prairies. Its natural beauty makes it one of the gems of South Texas anytime of the year. Come to enjoy Cuero, but stay to enjoy the stories.

For more information visit www.cuero.org

Cuero’s major festival is the Turkeyfest Celebration.

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George West, Texas Texas Hospitality Welcome to the serenity of the South Texas Brush Country, renowned for its trophy game and outstanding native habitat. Visit for a day, a weekend hunt or make this your new home.

George West is located midway between Choke Canyon Reservoir and Lake Corpus Christi where hunting and fishing abound. The City of George West, County Seat of Live Oak County, is a tribute to the generosity and farsightedness of its founder, George Washington West. After building a courthouse, school and a hotel, he sold thousands of acres to farmers, ranchers and businessmen.

Many of these original settlersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; families still live here.

George Washington West (at right with wife, Kittie) gave land for the town of George West and filed a plat for the town on September 22, 1914.

Begin your visit to George West with a stop at the historic Buck West House, home to our Chamber of Commerce office and information center. From here, visit the Grace Armantrout Museum, which

Quality People...

Quality Schools...

Quality Living...

P.O. Box 359, George West, Texas 78022

449-2033

(361)

www.georgewest.org

Office located in the Historic Buck West House, Hwy. 281 Stop in and say hello!

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George West, Texas Texas Hospitality houses memorabilia from the past. Next stop, the Live Oak County Courthouse, home of Geronimo.

A short drive out of town, visit Choke Canyon Reservoir for excellent viewing of native wildlife or a day of fishing. Hunters, be assured we have some of the best hunting in South Texas. Whether you’re looking for dove, quail, deer or wild hot, you’re sure to find perfect hunting grounds.

Storyfest Since 1989, people have come from near and far on the first Saturday in November to celebrate the art and tradition of storytelling around the Live Oak County Courthouse square in downtown George West. In 2014, George West Storyfest celebrated 26 consecutive years of presenting professional and local storytellers to audiences appreciative of listening to good stories.

outdoor stages. Living history groups set up on the courthouse lawn and share the stories of particular time periods and historical groups. Stories can be heard—and created—at the Classic Car Show, in the Children’s Area, and around the food and arts and crafts booths. Of course, the tales spun during the Texas State Liars’ Contest© generate uproarious laughter from the audience. And all of the entertainment during the day is FREE!

Join us on Saturday, November 7, 2015, for the 27th annual George West Storyfest. To learn more People who attend Storyfest not only enjoy the about George West Storyfest, visit the website at stories told by the traditional storytellers but also www.georgeweststoryfest.com and follow us on the stories told through music, history and dance. Facebook.

The Storyfest stage hosts live music from a variety of genres—country, gospel, blues, and Tejano, to Visit www.georgeweststoryfest.org for more information and directions. name a few—as well as cloggers and other dance Call the George West Chamber of Commerce at 361-449-2033 or visit us groups, alternating with the storytellers on three at www.georgewest.org.

27 th Annual George West Storyfest Storytelling Music • Food Booths Red Wagon Parade Cowboy Poets Children’s Activities Living History Texas State Liars Contest© Classic Car Show Art & Crafts

November 6-8, 2015

Join us for the

Southwest’s Largest Storytelling Festival

For more info: 888-600-3121

www.georgeweststoryfest.org

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Goliad, Texas Embracing the Past Goliad is one of the oldest municipalities in Texas.

In 1749, the Spanish government transferred Mission Espiritu Santo and its royal protector, Presidio La Bahia, to the site of a small Aranama Indian village. A small villa grew up around the walls of the presidio, and was called La Bahia.

The first great cattle ranch in Texas is said to have its beginnings at Mission Espiritu Santo.

Mission Espiritu Santo possessed the largest longhorn herds in the state, at times owning more than 40,000 head. events: Many of the buildings on the Courthouse Square, now housing a pharmacy, antique shops, gift shops, and private residences, date back to the early 1800s. Visitors are invited to take the Downtown Walking Tour, which features, among others, the sites described below:

Goliad Market Days * 2nd Saturday Every Month *361-645-3563. Market Days combines arts, crafts, food and fun into one of the largest and most popular street markets in Texas! Come out rain or shine.

Fannin Plaza Park, Goliad County Courthouse, Hanging Tree (Cart War Oak), Masonic Temple, Baptist Oak Tree, and St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church.

PRCA Rodeo and Goliad County Fair * 3rd weekend in March *361-645-8204. Enjoy a parade, PRCA rodeos, carnival, food, dances and so much more!

Plan your visit anytime during the year as most all sites are open year-round. If you just have a little time in town, attend one of our many annual

Presidio La Bahia’s Living History Program Reenactment * 4th weekend in March * 361-645-3752. This was developed to provide

Goliad County

Chamber of Commerce Heritage Tourism at its Best

* Tour a Spanish frontier fort! Presidio La Bahia * Tour our Mission! Espiritu Santo

* Goliad County Fair & Rodeo (PRCA Sanctioned event) - March 20-22, 2015 * Re-enactment of the Battle of Coleto Creek - March 28 & 29, 2015 * Hike, Bike, Canoe, Kayak, Relax & Recover!

www.goliadcc.org • goliadcc@goliad.net • 361-645-3563

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Goliad, Texas Embracing the Past the public with an accurate reenactment of the famous massacre of Colonel Fannin and his men.

Cinco de Mayo * 1st weekend in May * 361-5645727. Enjoy music, food, bands, arts, crafts, IBCA BBQ cookoff, and MORE! Summer & Fall Flotilla * 1st Saturday in June/ November * 361-575-6366. This 6.6 mile paddle down the San Antonio River can be floated in 2.5 – 4 hours.

Christmas in Goliad * 1st weekend in December * 361-645-8767. Christmas in Goliad begins on a Friday evening with a Christmas lighted parade. After the parade and on Saturday, enjoy shopping the arts and crafts show, music, events and an author’s corral.

Visit www.goliadcc.org for more information.

Missions Tour de Goliad Bike Ride * 3rd Saturday in October * 361-645-3563. The Missions Tour de Goliad offers the unique charm and challenges of the South Texas countryside to its riders. Whether you choose the 10, 30, 50 or 65 mile tour, you will pedal past history, live oaks and gentle hills.

Rio! Rio! * 2nd Saturday in November * 361-6453405. Rio! Rio! Demonstrations, exhibits and other activities focusing on the people, plants, and animals drawn to our area for hundreds of years by the San Antonio River.

Goliad Market Days

Goliad Chamber of Commerce 2nd Saturday of every month Downtown historic Goliad

Arts/Crafts * Jewelry Antiques * Collectibles Food * Beverages Candles and more! www.goliadcc.org goliadcc@goliad.net 361-645-3563

The 24th Annual

Mission Tour De Goliad Bicycle Ride Saturday, October 17, 2015 Pedal through a rich countryside filled with stately centuries-old live oak trees and gently rolling hills.

10 Mile • 30 Mile • 50 Mile • 65 Mile/Metric Century

Goliad County Chamber of Commerce www.goliadcc.org • goliadcc@goliad.net • 361-645-3563

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Goliad, Texas Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir The Coleto Creek Park and Reservoir located near Goliad is a popular South Texas getaway and fishing hole. Coleto is well known across the state for its fishing, but it is more than just a great fishing hole! Coleto’s 190-acre park, which provides the only public access to the 3,100 acre reservoir, offers shaded picnic tables with BBQ grills, swimming area, playgrounds and sand volleyball courts; plus, two Pavilions for group events. For overnight stays, there are 78 multiuse campsites, four camping cabins, and four rental travel trailers. The campground also has a one-mile Nature Trail and eight miles of single track mountain bike trail. On the reservoir you can spot pleasure boaters, jet skiers, water skiers, kayakers, and sailboats quietly slipping along.

Coleto attracts this variety of boaters because of

its many coves - which can provide calm waters out of the sometimes windy main reservoir; and long arms of the reservoir - which provide long ski runs.

Coleto is a prime migratory winter site for a wide variety of waterfowl and birds including Bald Eagles, Osprey, Hummingbirds, Roseate Spoonbills, and White Pelicans. Coleto has recorded over 100 different bird species. Plus, the area offers an abundance of wildlife including deer, squirrels, turkey, foxes, bobcats, raccoons, and others. So consider a visit to the Coleto Creek Park and Reservoir and “Come Make a Memory With Us.” Visit our website at www.coletocreekpark.com for more details.

Ingleside, Texas Ingleside & Ingleside by the Bay Affordable and Family-Friendly Ingleside is located in the heart of the Coastal Bend, less than 20 miles in any direction from Corpus Christi, Rockport and Port Aransas. Visitors can escape the big city and find new and affordable accommodations, peaceful sunsets, unique dining experiences, awesome park facilities, and friendly residents and merchants. Ingleside’s welcoming average annual temperature of 72 degrees enables many outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, birding, tennis, disc-golf, and biking.

N.O. Simmons Skate Park offers a state-of-theart skate facility, huge covered sports court and covered pavilion with game tables, seven soccer fields, two sand volleyball courts, a Tot-lot playscape, and an 8-foot wide hike/bike/fitness trail surrounding the impressively large complex. With its extended docks over marsh areas, multiple area

wetland enhancements, and interpretive displays, Whitney Lake Natural Habitat Area brings joy to birders and those seeking glimpses of shore birds, waterfowl, wading birds, and other species.

Call the Ingleside Chamber of Commerce at 888-899-2906 or visit www.inglesidetxchamber.com.

Ingleside on the Bay – IOB as the locals call it - is one of Texas’ newest cities, nestled among coastal live oaks along the north shoreline of Corpus Christi Bay. Area waters are well known to fishermen because of the great trout and red fishing.

Grumbles Hole, Redfish Hole and Fleeman’s Hole are but a few of the notable hotspots. There’s even fly fishing in Ingleside Cove. Celebrations center around Fourth of July, Bastille Day and Christmas (Light Up The Bay).

KENEDY, TEXAS RESTAURANTS All located along HWY 181 in Kenedy

Barth’s Restaurant 830-583-2468 Church’s Chicken 830-583-9030 Dairy Queen 830-583-3338 McDonalds 830-583-3700 Pizza Hut 830-583-9864 Red Dog Ice House 830-583-2288 Subway 830-583-9181 Taqueria Vallarta #5 830-583-2600

HOTELS & RV PARKS All located along HWY 181 in Kenedy

Best Budget Inn 830-583-3451 Best Western Plus 830-583-2121 Chandler RV Park 361-542-1492 Days Inn 361-583-2521 Kenedy Suites 830-609-8855 The Lodge at Kenedy 830-583-0406

Microtel Inn & Suites 830-299-3154 Southern Inn & Suites Kenedy 830-583-0024

MEDICAL FACILITIES Otto Kaiser Memorial Hospital 3349 S. Hwy 181 830-583-3401

2015 Events You Won’t Want To Miss!

¬ Kenedy Grapewine Classic - March 28 ¬ Bluebonnet Days - May 2 ¬ Annual Banquet & Casino Night June 19

Kenedy Family Practice 113 W. Main 830-583-0612

¬ Six Shooter Junction Shoot-Out Golf

Kenedy Back & Neck 322 W. Main, Suite 103 830-583-8045

¬ Christmas in Kenedy - Dec. 5

Phelps Family Dentistry 330 W. Live Oak 830-583-9891

The Prescription Shop 143 Craig St. 830-583-9652

Shops & Services Alamo Lumber Hwy 181 830-583-9827 Alexander Auto Hwy 181 830-583-2514

Anytime Fitness Hwy 181 830-583-3500 Cowboy Liquor 165 Business Park Blvd.

830-583-0227

Steve Steger, O.D. 806 W. Main 830-583-2022

Frontier Pharmacy 103 W. Main 830-583-2115

Tournament - Oct. 17

Eagle Ford Quick Lube Hwy 181 830-583-0622 Dynasty Enterprises 830-583-2212

Pure Parts/Napa 118 S. 2nd St. 830-583-9214 Go RV Parts & Mobile Service 1040 N. 5th St. 210-414-5528 The UPS Store 165 Business Park Blvd., St. 300

830-583-0322

CLUBS & groups

Johnson Flower Shop 502 N. 5th St. 830-583-9862

Karnes County Country Club Hwy 181 830-583-3200

Tractor City Country Store Hwy 181 830-583-2017

Kenedy Rotary Club Tuesday, Noon Hwy 181 Barth’s Restaurant

Tractor Supply Hwy 181 830-583-9287

Karnes County Christian Thrift Store 2nd Street - 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

830-583-9651

KENEDY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Promoting tourism, business & agriculture

HORNED LIZARD CAPITAL OF THE WORLD Historical Sites - Shopping - Golfing - Hunting Antiques Parks - Restaurants - RV Parks Motels - Airport 205 S. Second Street, P.O. Box 570, Kenedy, TX, 78119 Phone: 830-583-3223 • FAX: 830-583-9166 • Email: kenedycc@sbcglobal.net www.kenedychamber.com

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Kenedy, Texas Horned Lizard Capital of Texas Kenedy, once known as “Six Shooter Junction,” is now the “Junction Where Good Friends Meet.”

Folks can come to explore the rich heritage of the area, visit the museums, and parks, as well as experience True Texas Hospitality.

Joe Gulley Park is Kenedy’s premier destination with a little something for all ages. The park offers nature trails, great bird watching areas, aquatic plant exhibits, picnic areas, a playground and ball fields.

Spring Wildflowers include Kenedy and the surrounding area on this adventure. The rolling hillsides are vibrant with an abundance of wildflowers. Driving the back roads can be a perfect day trip or weekend get-away.

Explore the Heritage Historical Markers are placed around Kenedy to give visitors a glimpse of the town’s colorful past. Stop by the Chamber or check out the web site for a list of the markers and then set off on an adventure to find them.

Historical Mural Be sure to include a stop at the local Post Office to enjoy “The Grist Mill,” painted during the Great Depression 1934-43. It was part of a program called the New Deal Art Murals.

“Horned Lizard Capital of Texas” as proclaimed in 2000 by the Texas Legislature, is another claim to fame for Kenedy. From May through November visitors can call the Kenedy Chamber and arrange for a Toadyville Tour.

Hunters Kenedy is known as Hunter’s Paradise with an abundance of deer, hogs, quail and dove. The Chamber can provide information on seasonal or year round hunting leases that are available.

Fishermen and Golfers Kenedy is located a short distance from a variety of fishing lakes and bay fishing opportunities. The golf enthusiast is

invited to check out the 9-hole golf course just south of Kenedy.

Downtown Kenedy is enjoying a rebirth with the restoration and remodeling of many historic buildings. There are several bed and breakfasts located in the downtown area which provide a unique get away experience. The Hwy 181 corridor offers gift and flower shops, restaurants, motels, RV parks, and is the gateway to Joe Gulley Park.

Panna Maria is the “Oldest Permanent Polish Settlement” in the USA and the Cradle of Polish Culture. Established in 1854, the buildings and museum house artifacts of several generations, which preserve the heritage and culture - www. pannamariatexas.com.

Helena Court House Museum is located between Kenedy and Panna Maria. It offers a view into what life was like in South Texas during the 1800’s. www.karnesmuseum.com Welcome to All. Everyone is invited to come, and visit and stay a while. Enjoy the blue skies, fresh air, and friendly folks. Kenedy is a wonderful place to visit, raise a family or spend your retirement years.

Kenedy Chamber; 205 S. 2nd Street; P.O. Box 570; Kenedy, TX 78119; Phone: 830-583-3223; Fax: 830-583-9166;kenedycc@sbcglobal.net; www. kenedychamber.com

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Kingsville, Texas The Wild Horse Desert Kingsville, home of the world-famous King Ranch®, is a vibrant city that offers a myriad of recreation choices.

The ranch offers guided wildlife, birding and special-interest tours. For a taste of ranching in the Wild Horse Desert, the King Ranch Museum in historic downtown Kingsville offers videos and exhibits of ranch life and history. (king-ranch.com) There is an eclectic collection of fine shops downtown. Cowboy boots, Western apparel, Southwestern jewelry, fashionable clothing, furniture, art, and unique gifts are available. The flagship store of the worldwide catalog business, the King Ranch® Saddle Shop is a must-visit.

Also on Kleberg Avenue, the 1904 Train Depot Museum displays artifacts of South Texas railroading—an important facet of the history and heritage of the area.

There are a variety of restaurants in Kingsville.

Diners will find mesquite barbecue, steak, seafood, Jalisco Mexican food, Middle Eastern, Italian and much more.

From its beginnings as a teachers’ college, Texas A&M University-Kingsville has grown into a major

academic and athletic center, with programs including engineering, wildlife research, and ranch management. (tamuk.edu) The John E. Conner Museum on campus celebrates the natural history of the region and, along with TAMUK’s Ben Bailey Gallery, regularly hosts art exhibits.

(KingsvilleTexas.com) For visitors interested in birdwatching, there are hotspots for South Texas specialties from within the city to Baffin Bay, a prime fishing destination.

The Cowboy Coast is also rich in photographic opportunities.

Visitors will hear, then see, orange-and-white jets flown by pilots being trained here. Kingsville loves jet noise and is also the proud home of Naval Air Station-Kingsville. (cnic.navy.mil)

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Palacios, Texas City by the Sea Palacios is the ideal place to leave the urban crowds behind and enjoy some small town southern hospitality. Experience the quiet beauty of water and sky on Matagorda Bay. Enjoy a picnic in one of the bayfront parks, complete with BBQ pits, covered tables and family-friendly playgrounds.

Stop by the museum to learn about LaSalle and the French explorers who landed here in the 17th century, then head over to the marina to see a beautifully restored replica of their sunken ship.

Discover 20 local historical sites on a self-guided tour.

Fish off one of the free public piers, grab some friends for a chartered fishing adventure or take a kayak out for a lazy afternoon on the water. In the evening, try out one of the local dinner spots, watch the shrimp boats sail into port and enjoy a perfect sunset in this charming city by the sea.

Photo credits: Leland Singer, Ryan West, Bill Millet (MILLETFILMS.

The Palacios area is home to more bird species than anywhere else in the United States, with seven local birding sites along the Tres Palacios Loop of the Texas Coastal Birding Trail where you can explore pristine wetlands and capture amazing wildlife photos.

COM,TEXASBEFORETHEALAMO.COM), Tom Wise and Chris Johnson.

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Port Aransas, Texas Family Fun - Island Style Welcome to Port Aransas, an island getaway for beach, sun and family fun! Nestled between the dunes of Mustang Island and the Corpus Christi Ship Channel, its picturesque shoreline is the perfect place to meander among the seashells, frolic in the waves, bask beneath the sun, and relax in the gentle breezes. Mustang Island’s nature-related sites abound, offering optimum opportunities for birding, kayaking, fishing, surfing and swimming. Reflecting a unique laidback attitude, the intimate coastal community of Port Aransas brims with eclectic boutiques, shops and galleries, charming cafes, exceptional restaurants and lodging, ranging from clean and comfortable to upscale and luxurious. Escape to Port Aransas to experience family fun ~ Island Style! Affectionately referred to as “Port A”, the term ‘extended family’ has formed new meaning as locals eagerly anticipate the return of visitors throughout the year.

Natural Points of Interest • Great Texas Birding Trail Sites • Wetlands Park • Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center – Novices to experts can discover new species every Wednesday at 9 am, during “Birding on the Boardwalk,” a guided tour free to the public.

• Lydia Ann Lighthouse – Privately owned and operated, this structure holds important historical significance. In existence since the 1800’s, it is the only lighthouse on the Texas Gulf Coast with 24hour caretakers. Visitors may view it from water only.

• Kayak Trails • Mustang Island State Park • St. Jo’s Island – A privately owned island across the ship channel, offers excellent beachcombing and surf fishing.

• Spoil islands in the bays and waterways surrounding the island offer fantastic birding and wildlife viewing opportunities from the channel only.

• UTMSI Wetlands Education Center – This educational resource sits on a 3.5 acre salt marsh surrounded by sheltering dunes where visitors will discover the importance of wetlands to both nature and man. The site offers an extensive boardwalk system and several observation platforms for viewing migratory waterfowl and resident marsh birds. Weekly, free, guided tours offered each Tuesday and Thursday. The newly opened Estuary Explorium provides a unique opportunity to learn about our local estuaries through interactive exhibits.

• Joan & Scott Holt Paradise Pond – this fresh water pond is a migratory haven.

Beaches

• Port Aransas Nature Preserve – This 1,217 acre preserve encompasses over 3 miles of hike and bike trails, a pavilion, boardwalks over algal flats, crushed granite trails on the uplands, covered seating sites and two towers overlooking wetland areas around Salt Island.

The beaches of Mustang Island are fantastically unique. There are 18 miles of uninterrupted public shoreline, open for vehicles and all things beachy! It includes the Horace Caldwell Pier, open 24/7 extending from the beach into the Gulf of Mexico. Pets are welcome, but they must remain leashed at all times. A parking permit for a minimal fee is required.

• South Jetty – Granite jetties form the pathway to the Gulf of Mexico.

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Port Aransas, Texas Family Fun - Island Style During your stay Go fish! Known as the ‘Fishing Capital of Texas,’ Port Aransas boasts the best in all areas of the sport. Deep-sea fishing is BIG in the waters of this small city. Offshore excursions ranging from 6 – 56 hours depart from Port Aransas docks. Bay fishing is also outstanding in the waterways surrounding Mustang Island, where limits of redfish, flounder, black drum and trout are commonplace.

Take your pick of numerous experienced guides, or go it alone; tonight’s dinner is just a few casts away! Those who prefer to keep their feet on dry ground can also enjoy the sport of fishing from area lighted piers, accessible 24-hours a day - Horace

Caldwell Pier, Charlie’s Pasture Fishing Pier, J.P. Luby Pier or Ancel Brundrett Pier.Kids and adults alike delight when bottlenose dolphins make their appearance beside watercraft traveling through the Corpus Christi Ship Channel. Excursions from area docks offer the opportunity to marvel at the grace of these mammals that populate the waters surrounding Mustang Island.

Bird enthusiasts have ample opportunities to view and interact with our fine feathered friends in Port Aransas. In the heart of the Central Flyway, hundreds of species of permanent residents and thousands of migrating birds consider it the perfect rest stop. With five sites on the Great Texas Birding Trail, Mustang Island serves as

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Port Aransas, Texas Family Fun - Island Style an optimum spot for bird watching. Natural wetlands, inlets and 18 miles of beach and dunes, rock jetties, piers and boats offer dozens of perfect vantage points to view the birds that call Port Aransas and Mustang Island home. True Port Aransas talent is set to entertain the entire family at the Port Aransas Community Theatre (PACT) on SH 361. Sunset Sounds concerts are held the second Friday of each month, April thru October, and feature the talent of local/area musicians.

Tee Time Palmilla Beach Resort & Golf Club is the only ocean side golf course along the Gulf of Mexico. This Arnold Palmer signature-links designed course is

a challenge for even the most expert golfer with the steady gulf breeze, strategically arranged fairways, fast and true greens, deep stackedwalled bunkers, and native coastal grasses waiting to catch missed shots.

Early Island Lifestyles One of two catalog houses that came to Port Aransas via barge somewhere around 1913 or 1915, the Port Aransas Museum features exhibits that showcase early island living to the present.

The new Farley Boat Works is making history of its own by providing folks the opportunity to learn traditional boat building skills and what helped put Port Aransas on the map at the same time.

BE SHORE TO TAKE TIME TO COAST. Sca n to find whe re to STAY & PLAY

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Port Aransas, Texas Family Fun - Island Style Annual Events Whooping Crane Festival - Join the festivities February 19-22, 2015 as we celebrate our area’s distinguished privilege as winter hosts to these amazing giants. Visit the whooping crane website at www.whoopingcranefestival.org.

Texas SandFest - The 2015 SandFest is slated for April 24-26. Plan to attend this incredible familystyle event on the shores of Mustang Island and prepare to be amazed!

Deep Sea Round Up - Celebrating its 80th year, the Deep Sea Roundup, the oldest saltwater fishing

tournament on the Texas Gulf Coast is fishing fun for the entire family. July 10-12, 2015 Harvest Moon Regatta - As the carrot-colored orb rises above the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, winddriven vessels of all classes are slicing through the waves on the annual 150-mile offshore regatta from League City. The regatta will occur October 22-25, 2015.

For more information on accommodations, events and everything Port Aransas log on to: www. portaransas.org or call 1-800-45-COAST. Submitted by: Jane Marslender

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Port Lavaca, Texas A Bit of Everything Whether you are interested in birding, history, shopping, hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, or simply watching the sunset, Port Lavaca has it all!

Calhoun County’s extensive bay system provides excellent fishing and access to Gulf waters.

With the largest and deepest bay system on the Texas Gulf Coast, Calhoun County has much to offer the avid sports fisherman. Matagorda Bay, Espiritu Santo Bay, San Antonio Bay, Lavaca Bay and Caranchua Bay are full of redfish, shark, trout, flounder, pompano, gafftops, whiting, croakers, sheepsheads, drum, jack crevalle, Spanish mackerel and the “silver king” of game fish, tarpon. Calhoun County also offers the best natural passes or entries to the Gulf on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Light House Beach - Enjoy the tropical comforts this RV site has to offer. With 55 full hook up sites including cable TV and new family area with splash pad, you’ll agree this is the best of living on the Gulf Coast! Check out these other amenities: 2200 foot board walk from beach to bird tower, made from recycled materials; Picnic area and playground; White sandy beach; Large, 50’ by 100’ covered pavilion; 4750 foot walking path; Campers-only restroom facility; Washers and Dryers for Campers; and Recreation Center Discover antiques and gift shops in Olde Town Port Lavaca. Shop for unexpected treasures at our monthly Market Days, or enjoy many festivals and events throughout the year. For a current list of events, visit our website: www.portlavacatx.org.

Port Lavaca, texas

Home of Birds, Beaches, Sails and Big Fish Tails

Calhoun County is home to the largest and deepest bay system on the Texas Gulf Coast with much to offer the avid sports fisherman. Plus discover unique antique and gift shops in Olde Town Port Lavaca.

Let Us Lure You Away... www.PortLavacatx.org Fishing • Birding • Sailing • Hiking Swimming • History • Shopping • RV Parks

Port Lavaca Chamber of Commerce 361.552.2959 2300 Hwy 35 N., Port Lavaca, TX 77979

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Portland, Texas Serene & Picturesque Minutes from downtown Corpus Christi and just a ferry boat ride away from Port Aransas and the beaches of Upper Padre Island, Portland is the perfect location for a fun-filled getaway. First discover all of Portland’s very own hot spots.

Visit waterfront trails and parks to enjoy watching migrant and resident birds in one of the birdiest areas in the country. Don’t miss Fred Jones Wildlife Sanctuary, full of wildflowers and a

natural water spring that attracts bird species of all kinds.

Make sure to visit Sunset Lake Park for hike and bike trails. And for the thrill-seekers, Violet Andrews Park is a popular spot for area kite boarders. Start or finish your day fishing off Indian Point Pier, where the catch of the day is always abundant or golf at the picturesque bayside North Shore Golf Course overlooking Corpus Christi Bay and the downtown skyline.

Central and serene, Portland is convenient to all things coastal. For leisure or for a lifetime, come visit us and play on the South Texas Gulf Coast.

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Refugio, Texas Rustic Charm Refugio County is quintessential Texas. Founded in 1795 as the last of the Spanish Missions, Nuestra Senora del Refugio was also the last mission to secularize. The site of the old mission became home to the Power and Hewetson Colony during the early settlement of Texas. The old mission lands soon gave way to large ranches that defined the Old West. El Camino Real traffic was replaced with the cattle drives of the Chisolm Trail. In 1925 oil

was found in Refugio, ushering in a new era of prosperity. This history is alive today in the people, places, and culture of Refugio County. The Refugio County Museum is the perfect place to start your visit. Here you can get a deeper look at how Refugio County helped shape Texas history.

Whether you are a birder, a hunter, a kayaker, a salt or freshwater angler, or a nature photographer Refugio County has the perfect landscape for you.

Texas Tropical Trail The Texas Tropical Trail Region encompasses 20 counties, 23,000 square miles and is home to 1.7 million residents. The Region’s Border Byway skirts the nation of Mexico and the Gulf Coast Byway runs along the Texas Gulf Coast. The rich landscapes in between are called the Brush Country Byway and the Wild Horse Desert Byway.

Historical sites include battlegrounds, architecture, historical markers, courthouses, museums, lighthouses and landmarks. For the adventurous, the region offers beachcombing, hiking, hunting, camping, golfing, boating, fishing and a wide variety of water sports and eco-tourism opportunities.

The Tropical Trail Region has partnered with TexMaps to create a full color Map & Guide Book of our 20-county region which retails for $19.95. This book includes over 900 QR codes and information about the rich history that our small towns and communities bring to our regional story.

The Map & Guide Book is available at the Corpus Christi Visitor Information Center, King Ranch Museum, the Refugio County Museum, the Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum and other retail locations across the region. Call 361 547-8033 for a location near you.

Use this Map & Guide Book to plan your next

adventure!

For more information, email info@texastropicaltrail.com or call 361 547-8033. www.thetropicaltraveler.com.

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Robstown, Texas Ideally Located Home to King Cotton, Robstown was first named for Robert Driscoll, Jr. - “Rob’s Town.” The town boasts the first cotton gin, the Brendle Gin, built in 1910 or 1911.

including carnivals, rodeos, festivals and cookoffs.

Robstown also owns the Mrazek Plow, an invention enabling South Texas to become an agricultural center. Robstown is nine miles from Corpus Christi International Airport and 15 miles from Downtown Corpus Christi. All terminals at the Port of Corpus Christi can be reached in less than 20 minutes.

• The 80th year for the Nueces County Junior Livestock Show will kick off in January with a parade on January 10th. There will be activities for the entire week, ending with the Livestock Auction on January 18th.

Great Food and Events In Robstown, you can find a great variety of food.

Robstown is only 30 minutes from Gulf of Mexico beaches, public golf courses, Lake Corpus Christi, the King Ranch and Corpus Christi International Airport. For the nature enthusiast, Robstown is just minutes away from the tranquility of bird watching and nature trails. The Richard M. Borchard Regional Fairgrounds is our entertainment and public events venue and a state of the art facility.

This facility is great for indoor events such as concerts, banquets, weddings, meetings and it also allows for a wide variety of outdoor events

Don’t Miss...

• The 36th Annual St. Anthony’s Catholic Church Fiesta Mexicana will take place March 7 and 8 at the Richard M. Borchard Regional Fairgrounds.

This event is filled with lots of food, games and fun for the entire family.

• October is Cottonfest month in Robstown. Join us for this annual festival October 9-11. This event is free to the public and full of entertainment for the whole family.

• And our beautiful Christmas parade and other events kick off on December 12.

Call the Robstown Area Development Commission at 361-387-3933 .

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Rockport-Fulton, Texas Charm of the Texas Coast Surrounded by the sparkling waters of Copano and Aransas Bays and bathed year-round by soothing Gulf breezes, nestled among ancient windswept oaks and steeped in a colorful community of cultures, recently selected as 7th place of “Smallest Cool Towns in America” and #6 Best places to visit in Texas, Rockport-Fulton is in a class of its own...

Rockport and Fulton offer some of the best fishing on the coast, birding opportunities, art galleries, shopping and enjoying the beautiful “Blue Wave” beach. Vacation time is a year-round affair.

Artists Galore The towns of Rockport and Fulton offer a special charm, the kind of charm that has led many prominent artists to make this area their home. Named one of the top 10 Coastal Artist Communities in the U.S., the area boasts one of the best collections of art galleries anywhere.

Birding Over 400 different bird species can be spotted in the marshes and along the sandy beach throughout the year. The Whooping Crane is an endangered species and the nearby Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, which was named the #5 Birding Spot in the USA, is their winter home. Don’t miss the HummerBird Celebration held the third weekend in September.

Photo by Steve Riesinger • Texas Maritime Museum - The official maritime museum of Texas. The museum features nautical artifacts, hands-on displays, outdoor exhibits and a museum store stocked with a treasure of gifts both nautical and natural. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Small admission charge for nonmembers.

• Bay Education Center - The Center of Attraction is a Science on a Sphere system which projects animated images and data on a sphere. It is one of only 80 worldwide. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m.

• Rockport Beach Blue Wave is a nationally certified Blue Wave Beach and has a focus on the protection of human health and the enivornment.

It has handicap accessibility, meeting and public restroom facilities and swimmable waters.

Points of Interest • Rockport Center for the Arts - Sculpture garden and exhibits in three galleries. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Free admission.

• Other points of interest: Rockport-Fulton Visitor Center: Goose Island State Park, famous 1,000-plus year old Live Oak “Big Tree,” Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Memorial Park Hiking and Biking Trails, Community Pool and Skate Park, Golf Courses, Copano Causeway Pier and

Cal

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Rockport-Fulton, Texas Charm of the Texas Coast Boat Launch, Cove Harbor Marina and Pier – North and South, Fulton and Rockport Harbors, Fulton Pier, Fulton Schoolhouse Museum, Camp site of General Zachary Taylor - Zachary Taylor Tree; and sightseeing in the Lamar area includes: Schoenstatt Shrine, Lamar Cemetery and the Stella Maris Chapel. Fulton Mansion - The extravagant Victorian mansion and gift shop overlook Aransas Bay.

on existing and future sites. Pathways Center is adjacent to the City Hike and Bike trail and has its own birding and nature site.

Call the Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce for information at 800242-0071. Visit www.rockport-fulton.org; email tourism@1rockport.org or download our Rockport-Fulton mobi-app on Android or iPhone.

Our area is also noted for the fabulous narrated boat excursions titled “Whooping Crane Boat Tours” November through March and Dolphin and Sunsets cruises throughout the year.

Rockport-Fulton offers a variety of fabulous restaurants with unique cuisine. Some will also “Cook your Catch.”

The newest attraction to Aransas County, “Aransas Pathways,” is a venue project adding new visitor attractions to the area The four major areas are: Hike/Bike, History, Birding, and Kayaking. Sites now open include: Linda S, Castro Birding and Nature Site, History Center for Aransas County, Airport Road Kayak Site, and many more. Pathways Center Pavilion and Bridge, is the central information center for the project, a place to relax while studying maps, photos and information

Photo by Phil Stranahan

Sandollar RESORT HOTEL - CONDOMINIUMS - RV PARK

“The Complete Seaside Resort”

- 700-foot lighted fishing pier - Restaurant over the water serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and your favorite drinks

Call: 361729-2381 877 463-4747

919 Fulton Beach Road, Rockport, Texas, 78382

www.sandollar-resort.com

Email:

sandollar.resort@gmail.com

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Sarita, Texas Kenedy Ranch Museum The Kenedy Ranch Museum of South Texas opened its doors on October 25, 2003. The museum is located at 200 E. La Parra Ave. in Sarita, Texas, county seat of Kenedy County. It is about 20 miles south of Kingsville off of Highway 77. The museum is housed in the former Kenedy Pasture Company building which was built in 1927 and is a program of the John G. and Marie Stella Kenedy Memorial Foundation of Corpus Christi.

In a separate building, the Carriage House and which is the museum’s media center, a short documentary on the lives of the Kenedeños, the vaqueros and their families of the Kenedy Ranch, is shown in a nice theater setting with some very comfortable rocking chairs to sit in.

The hours of the museum are: Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Sunday – Noon – 4 p.m.; Closed on Mondays and major holidays.

Admission is: $2 for Seniors, $3 for Adults, $2 for Young adults 13-18 years. Children under 13 years and organized school groups are free.

See the fascinating history of South Texas come alive in vibrant murals and learn about the area’s cultural, economic and religious development. View “Vaquero,” a video describing cowboy life in the Wild Horse Desert.

A

S

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Open Tues.-Sat. 10am - 4pm • Sunday Noon to 4pm Admission: $3 Adults, $2 Seniors and Teens 13-18, Children 12 and under & organized school groups are free.

200 East La Parra Ave., Sarita, Texas 78385 (361)294-5751 • www.kenedymuseum.org

San Patricio Co., Texas San Patricio County, with its 12 incorporated towns, stretches from the fresh water Lake Corpus Christi at Mathis to the salt water bays of Portland, Ingleside and Aransas Pass. Three museums tell the history of the area, one in San Patricio City, the Taft Blackland Museum, and the newly opened Sinton Museum.

This original Texas County will delight history buffs, geo-cachers, bird watchers, kayakers, RVers, wind surfers, golfers, fisherman, skateboarders, water skiers, hunters, shoppers and disc golfers.

Numerous aquatic centers welcome families and several are handicapped accessible.

The County offers ready access to the Texas State Aquarium, the Lexington, and the beaches of Mustang and Padre Island. Festivals abound from the Rattlesnake Races at San Patricio, Odem Jubilee, Taft Tamale Eating Contest, Windfest in Portland, to the Round UP Days and Renaissance Festival in Ingleside, and Shrimporee in Aransas Pass to name a few.

Call the San Patricio Economic Development Corporation at 361-643-4744 or visit www. sanpatricioedc.com. Visit the calendar for our many festivals.

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All Roads Lead To...

SINTON

Close to Everything, Far from Ordinary

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385 rg Enjoy Sinton’s Sites & Attractions!

• Welder Wildlife Refuge

Sinton, the San Patricio County seat, is located at the heart of the Coastal Bend where energy, agriculture and tourism industries meet.

Outstanding Sinton parks offer RV sites, an acclaimed golf course, swimming and world-class birding. Stroll down Sinton’s revitalized Main Street, pose for a photo with the world’s biggest squirrel and visit popular shops and restaurants. Sinton offers new motels and true Southern Hospitality, and Sinton is easy to reach, at the Crossroads of South Texas and by general aviators via the San Patricio County Airport.

Come see us...you’ll be glad you did!

• Rodeo Arena • San Patricio Co. Fairgrounds • Birding Trail Sites • Antiquing • RV Sites • Municipal Golf Course • Swimming

For more information on Sinton, please contact: Sinton Chamber of Commerce - 218 W. Sinton St. - Sinton, Texas, 78387 - (361)364-2307 City of Sinton - 301 E. Market St. - Sinton, Texas, 78387 - (361)364-2381

www.sintontexas.org

Visit Three Rivers

Where the Atascosa, Frio & Nueces Rivers meet - midway between San Antonio and Corpus Christi. Nature at its finest.

A great place for hunting deer, dove and feral hogs Three Rivers: Three Rivers: Heart of the Eagle Ford Shale Heart of the Eagle Ford Shale

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Three Rivers, Texas Gateway to the Outdoors Three Rivers is the Gateway to Choke Canyon and the center of activity for the Eagle Ford Shale Discovery. Three Rivers is located midway between San Antonio and Corpus Christi and sits at the crossroads where the Atascosa, Frio and Nueces Rivers meet. Choke Canyon Reservoir is the destination in Texas for numerous fishing tournaments, and attracts thousands of people monthly who enjoy the abundance of fishing opportunities available. If you are a hunter the area is home to deer, quail, dove, turkey, javelina and wild hogs.

Three Rivers is what small town America is

all about -pride in our schools, churches and diversity of citizens. The town square is the gathering point for town government, and weekly events. Unique businesses, numerous motels and food establishments and a wide variety of professional services are available.

Three Rivers hosts the best Salsa Festival in Texas. It is held annually during Fourth of July weekend; with free admission, two music stages, unique vendors, salsa contests and so much more.

To learn more and see current activities, visit www.threeriverstx.org.

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Victoria, Texas Explore Victoria Founded in 1824 by Spanish Empresario Don Martin de Leon, Victoria is one of the oldest cities in Texas and is filled with rich history, beautiful architecture, outdoor activities, family fun, and unique festivals and events. Whether you stay for a day, week, or even longer, a trip to Victoria is sure to be a memorable experience.

The Museum of the Coastal Bend showcases the region’s rich multicultural heritage. The newest permanent exhibit, “Where Texas History Began,” tells the story of early Coastal Bend pre-history and European colonization; and includes an expanded La Salle Odyssey exhibit. www.museumofthecoastalbend.org The Texas Zoo showcases more than 200 native Texas and exotic animals of over 90 species and features educational programs and special events.

Designated the National Zoo of Texas by the Texas Legislature in 1984. www.texaszoo.org The Nave Museum is one of the region’s premiere fine arts museums, featuring six to eight contemporary art, sculpture, and traveling exhibits each year.

The classic Greek temple in which the museum is housed is part of the Old Victoria Driving Tour. www.navemuseum.com Old Victoria Driving Tour has over 80 properties, many listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and features such treasures as the restored 1892 Victoria County Courthouse. Stop by the Victoria Convention & Visitors Bureau to pick up a driving tour guide.

Historic Downtown Victoria is a must see.

With De Leon Plaza at the center, stunning historic architecture may be seen in every direction. Downtown Victoria features dining and nightlife options and is commonly the site of special events year round, including Bootfest, held the first weekend of October.

Performing arts are of the greatest quality in Victoria, with shows provided by Theatre Victoria, Victoria Ballet Theatre, and the Victoria Symphony Orchestra.

Victoria Educational Gardens sends visitors through various themed gardens in a peaceful and relaxing environment. www.vcmga.org Riverside Park, at 562 acres, includes kayaking and canoeing on the Guadalupe River, 27-hole Riverside Park Golf Course, Riverside Stadium, 21-hole disc golf course, walking trails, large duck pond, playgrounds and picnic areas.

Outdoor recreational opportunities abound, with freshwater fishing, camping and water recreation at Coleto Creek Park and Reservoir and Saxet Lake Park. Hit the links and enjoy great golfing weather nearly year round at Riverside Golf Course, Victoria Country Club Golf Course and the Club at Colony Creek Golf Course.

The Youth Sports Complex includes five softball and seven baseball fields, four tennis courts, a covered basketball pavilion and skate park.

Shopping opportunities are everywhere in Victoria with major retailers, boutiques and antique shops selling unique finds.

Dining and nightlife enthusiasts frequent Victoria as the region’s best choice for a variety of casual and upscale social hotspots. www.visitvictoriatexas.com • 800-926-5774

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STATE & REGIONAL PARKS Choke Canyon State Park

Lipantitian State Park

Three Rivers

Orange Grove

Copano Bay State Fishing Pier

Matagorda Island

Rockport-Fulton

Port Lavaca

Fannin Battleground

Mustang Island State Park

Goliad

Port Aransas

Fulton Mansion

Port Lavaca State Fishing Pier

Rockport-Fulton

Port Lavaca

Goliad State Park

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

Goliad

Austwell

Goose Island State Park

Padre Island National Seashore

Rockport-Fulton

Corpus Christi

Lake Corpus Christi State Park Mathis

For information, call: State Parks 1-800-792-1112

Lake Texana State Park Jackson County/Edna

or visit www.tpwdstate.tx.us/park

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TCBRTC BUSINESS MEMBERS Art Museum of South Texas 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd.

Corpus Christi, TX, 78401 361-825-3500 Barnhart Q5 Ranch & Retreat P.O. Box 626, Berclair, TX, 78107, 361-375-2824 www.barnhartranchretreat. com Bee County Historical Society 6014 HWY 59W, Beeville, TX, 78102, 361-343-3119 Beeville Publishing Co., Inc. P. O. Box 10, Beeville, TX, 78104, 361-358-2550 www.mysoutex.com Brackenridge Plantation Park 891 Brackenridge Pkwy.

Edna, TX, 77957 361-782-5229 www.brackenridgepark. com Cinnamon Shore 5009 Highway 361, Port Aransas, TX, 78373 361-749-0422 www.cinnamonshore.com Coastal Bend COG P O. Box 9909, Corpus Christi, TX, 78469, 361-883-5743 cbcog98.org Daisy Charters & Shuttles 602 North Tancahua Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361-883-8876 www.daisycharters.com

Fennessey Ranch P O Box 99, Bayside, TX, 78340, 361-529-6600 fennesseyranch.com Fishermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wharf 900 N. Tarpon, Port Aransas, TX, 78373, 361-749-5448 www.wharfcat.com GBRA-Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir P.O. Box 68, Fannin, TX, 77960, 361-575-6366 www.coletocreekpark.com

Knolle Farm & Ranch Bed, Barn & Breakfast 13016 FM, Sandia, TX, 78383, 361-547-2546 www.knolle.com Northshore Country Club 801 E. Broadway Ave., Portland, TX, 78374 361-643-1546 www.northshoretx.com Omni Corpus Christi Hotel 900 N. Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX, 78401 361-886-3560 www.omnihotels.com

Seg City - Corpus Christi 14141 Whitecap Blvd Corpus Christi, TX, 78418 361-563-4050 SegCity.com/corpuschristi So Tx Botanical Gardens & Nature Center 8545 So. Staples, Corpus Christi, TX, 78413, 361852-2100 www.stxbot. org Starkey Property Mgmt P. O. Box 1780, Port Aransas, TX, 78373 361-749-3591 www.starkeyproperties.com

Golden Crescent Regional Real Hometown Media Planning Comm.

Texas A&M University120 S. Main Street, Suite P.O. Box 3257, Corpus Christi 210 Victoria, TX, 77901 Alice, TX, 78333 361-578-1587 6300 Ocean Drive, NRC 361-668-6397 2200 Corpus Christi, TX, www.alice24-7.com 78412, 361-825-5966 www.outreach.tamucc.edu Greater CC Hospitality Refugio County Museum Assn.

102 W. West Street Texas State Aquarium P. O. Box 94, Corpus Refugio, TX, 78377 2710 N. Shoreline, Christi, TX, 78403-0945 361-526-5555 Corpus Christi, TX, 78402 www.refugiocountytx.org 361-779-6801 361-881-1225 www.texasstateaquarium. www.greatercchospitality org Rockport Net association.com High Lonesome Ranch 316 Happy Trail, San Antonio TX, 78231, 210-492-1216 www.highlonesomehunting. com Kenedy Ranch Museum P. O. Box 7, Sarita, TX, 78385, 361-294-5751 kenedymuseum.org King Ranch Visitor Center P.O. Box 1090, Kingsville, TX, 78364-1090 361-592-8055 www.king-ranch.com

6424 Hickory Forrest Dr. Texas Tropical Trail Seguin, TX, 78155 Region 361-727-1753 www.rockportnet.com P.O. Box 1538, Freer, TX., 78357; 361-547-8033 www.texastropicaltrail.com Sandcastle Condominiums 200 S Alister, Suite C Port Aransas, TX, 78373 TexMaps 361-749-4141 www.PortAransas-Texas.

P. O. Box 3027 com Corpus Christi, TX 78463 361-883-6277 Sandollar Resort 919 N. Fulton Beach Rd. Drop 98, Rockport, TX, 78382, 361-729-2381 Sandollar-resort.com

USS Lexington Museum on the Bay P.O. Box 23076, Corpus Christi, TX , 78403, 361-888-4873 www.usslexington.com

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ANNUAL EVENTS January 2015 Alice

Portland

Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame Induction Weekend, Jan. 2-3

Chamber Banquet

Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com; Sweetheart Ball, Feb. 14, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.org

Palacios

Rockport-Fulton

Winter Texan Chili Dinner at KC Hall, Jan. 22; 4-H Fundraiser BBQ & Auction at Recreation Center, Jan. 24; Deutschburg Seafood Dinner/Supper Fundraiser, Jan. 31; 4th Annual Winter Gala, St. Anthony’s Church, Jan. 31

Bountiful Bowl, Feb. 7, call 361-729-5352; LaMardi Gras festival, Feb. 12 & 13, call 361-729-6445 or visit www. lamarvfd.com

Port Aransas

Fennessey Ranch

Port ‘A’ Dine Around, Jan. 26

Wild Boar Hunts, March 7 & 21; call 261-529-6600 for reservations.

Aransas Pass

Portland Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com; Supportland Business Expo & Health Fair, Jan. 15, Portland Community Center, www. portlandtx.org Robstown Jr. Livestock Show Parade, Jan. 10; Jr. Livestock Auction, Jan. 18 Rockport-Fulton Gospel Music Festival, Jan. 8-11, call Gary Howard at 361-205-2789 or go to www. gospelforce.org/festival February 2015 Fennessey Ranch Whooping Crane Festival Board Tours, Feb. 20-21.

Make reservations at 1-800-45-COAST; Wild Boar Hunts, Feb. 7 & 21; call 261529-6600 for reservations.

Palacios Harmonie Club Valentine Parade & Dance, Feb. 14; 4H/FFA BBQ Fundraiser, Feb. 14; Chamber Banquet, Feb. 19 Port Aransas

April 2015

Whooping Crane Festival, Feb. 19-22, www.portaransas.org

March 2015

George West Live Oak County Fair, March 11-14 Goliad PRCA Rodeo and Goliad County Fair, 3rd weekend in March, call 361-645-8204; Presidio La Bahia’s Living History Program Reenactment, 4th weekend in March, call 361645-3752.

Kenedy

Aransas Pass

Bluebonnet Days, May 2

Women’s Style Show , Miss Shrimporee Pageant, Rock the Dock In-water Boat Show

Palacios

Fennessey Ranch Spring Migration Bird Tours, April 11-18. Call 361-529-6600; Wild Boar Hunt, April 4; call 261-529-6600 for reservations.

Palacios Patchwork of Life Christian Women’s Conference, April 11; Palacios Rotary Golf Tournament, April 18; Chamber Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, April 21; Trail Riders Annual Trail Ride, April 25 Port Aransas Texas Sand Fest, Mustang Island, April 24-26 Portland Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com; Portland Windfest, April 17-19, www. windfest.org Rockport-Fulton Tour of Homes/Boats, April 11 & 12, call Rockport Center for the Arts at 361-729-5519 May 2015

Grapewine Class, March 28 Portland Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com Robstown 36th Annual St. Anthony’s Fiesta Mexicana, March 7 & 8 Rockport-Fulton Fulton Oysterfest, March 5-8, Fulton Harbor Navigation Park, call 361-463-9955, visit www. fultonoysterfest.org; Whooping Crane Strut, first spring break weekend, Tule Hike & Bike Trail, two-mile walk, 5K and 10K run, call 361-727-2158

Kenedy

Alice Tejano ROOTS Cinco de Mayo celebration, May 1-2 Fennessey Ranch Wild Boar Hunts, May 2 & 16; call 261-529-6600 for reservations.

George West Cinco de Mayo, May 1-2; Unify to Beautify Ranch House Tour May 2, 10 am. to 4 pm Goliad Cinco de Mayo, 1st weekend in May, call 361-564-5727.

Cinco De Mayo, Fried Fish & BBQ Cookoff, Color Run, May 2; Historical Association Chicken Dinner, May 24 Portland Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com; Patrice Worsham Scholarship Style Show, May 9, Northshore Country Club, www.portlandtx. org Rockport-Fulton Nautical Flea Market, second weekend in May, hosted by Rockport Yacht Club, call 361-729-1244; Babes on Bay, 16th annual, women’s angler tournament, www. babesonthebay.com; 18th Annual Festival of Wines, May 23-25, Texas Maritime Museum, www.texasmaritimemuseum. org; Crawfish Boil, Coastal Bend Troop Support at VFW June 2015 Aransas Pass Great Outhouse Race, Shrimporee Parade, Shrimporee Festival Coleto Creek Annual Kids Fishing Tournament, 1st Saturday in June, www.coletocreekpark.com Goliad 1st Saturday in June, Annual Summer Flotilla, www. canoetrailgoliad.com Kenedy Annual Banquet & Casino Night, June 19 Portland Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com July 2015

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Alice Fireworks Display, July 4 Aransas Pass 4th of July Celebration fireworks display Palacios

Tours. Call 361-729-6445 for reservations; Hawk Watch Tours, Sept. 26. Call 361-529-6600 for reservations.

Palacios Community Medical Center Box Supper Fundraiser, Sept. 25 Portland

Lions Club 4th of July Celebration, July 4 Poker in Palacios, July 11 Portland Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com Rockport-Fulton July 4 events include boat ride at noon, Wendell Family Fireworks Show at night, July 4; Art Festival, July 5 & 6, call 361-729-5510 or visit www. rockportartcenter.com

Rockport-Fulton Warrior’s Weekend Heroes Cup fishing tournament for wounded soldiers, www.warriorsweekend. org; AquaFest, Labor Day Weekend, call 361-727-0016 or visit www.rockportaquarium. com; HummerBird Celebration, Sept. 17-20, call 361729-6445 or visit www. rockporthummingbird.com October 2015

Aransas Pass

Alice

Coastal Bend Classic & Custom Car Show & Swap Meet

Street Rods of Alice Rod Run, Oct. 3-4

Palacios St. Anthony’s Shrimporee Dinner, Aug. 2; Chamber Fish Fest Family Fishing Tournament, Aug. 8; Cannoball Run Youth Sailing, Aug. 22-23 Portland Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com; Kid Katch, Aug. 1, Indian Point Pier, www. portlandtx.com September 2015 Alice Hispanic Heritage Festival, Sept. 11-12; Oilfield Trash-Off, Sept. 18-19 Aransas Pass

txcoastalbend.org

Palacios Chamber Foundation BBQ Cookoff and Arts & Crafts Booths, Oct. 10; Monstrous 5K Run Bash by the Sea, Oct. 17; Harvest Moon Library Fundraiser, Oct. 2 Port Aransas Harvest Moon Regatta, Oct. 22-25

Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com; Taste of Portland, Sept. 10, Northshore Country Club, www.portlandtx. org

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Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com; Boo Bash Triathlon, Oct. 17, Aquatic Center, www.portlandtx.com; Boo Bash Carnival & Games, Oct. 24, Joe Burke Pavilion, www.portlandtx.com Robstown Cottonfest, Oct. 9 - 11 Rockport-Fulton 4th Annual Shopping Tournament, Oct. 2&3, teams of four, www.acedfoundation. org; Seafair, Oct. 9-11, gumbo cook-off, crab races, boat show and more, www.rockportseafair. com or call 361-729-6445 November 2015 Cuero

Film Festival, Nov. 6-8, Call 361-729-5510 or visit www. rockportartcenter.com; AIM for the Coast, run, walk or bike rides, Nov. 7, visit www. onestoprace.com December 2015 Aransas Pass Saltwater Christmas Illuminated Parade, Christmas Lighted Boat Parade George West Winterfest, December 11 and 12 Goliad Christmas in Goliad ,1st weekend in December, parade, music and more; call 361645-8767.

Kenedy Christmas in Kenedy, Dec. 5 Palacios Chamber Seaside Holiday and Tour of Home, Dec. 5

Christmas in the Park is held the fourth weekend in November and continues through midDecember.

Port Aransas

George West

Portland

Turkeyfest Celebration, the second full weekend of October

Storyfest, November 6 and 7; Christmas Tree Forest at Chamber, November 18 thru December 14

George West

Goliad

Haunted House at Chamber, October 31

1st Saturday in November, Annual Fall Flotilla, www. canoetrailgoliad.com; Rio! Rio!, 2nd Saturday in November, call 361-645-3405

Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com; Christmas in Portland, Dec. 3, Community Center, www.portlandtx.com; Parade of Lights, Dec. 8, www. portlandtx.com; Noon Year’s Eve, Dec. 21, Community Center, www.portlandtx.com

Coleto Creek Bow hunts held through December, www.coletocreekpark. com Cuero

Goliad Missions Tour de Goliad Bike Ride, 3rd Saturday in October, call 361-645-3563.

Palacios

Hotties on the Harbor

Kenedy

CDA Turkey Dinner at KC Hall, Nov. 8; Pedal of Palacios Bike Ride, Nov. 14

Fennessey Ranch

Six Shooter Junction Shoot-Out Golf Tournament, Oct. 17

Portland

Hummingbird Celebration

Rockport-Fulton

Portland

Aransas Pass Toast & Taste of Aransas Pass

Portland Opry, 2nd Thursday, Portland Community Center, www.portlandtx.com

Caroler’s Afloat & Boat Lighting Parade, Dec. 5

Robstown Holiday events and Christmas Parade, Dec. 12 Rockport-Fulton Christmas by the Bay, Dec. 5, illuminated light parade, lighting of the Christmas tree, fireworks and more, call 361727-2158

Cuero

Yorktown Goliad

Kenedy

Tilden Three Rivers

V

Beeville George West Mathis Freer

Refugio Sinton Taft Portland

San Diego Alice Robstown

Kingsville Falfurrias

Sarita

Corpus C

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Victoria

Palacios Port Lavaca Port Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Refugio

Rockport Aransas Pass Port Aransas Portland Taft

Corpus Christi

Gulf of Mexico

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