TRIBEZA Jul/Aug 2023 Summer Issue

THE SUMMER ISSUE

Ready to make a move? Urbanspace has you covered. Our team of expert realtors has a proven track record of success and extensive market knowledge of Austin. We are especially suited to help you find what you are looking for in the Downtown Austin market, from the latest condo towers to modern single-family homes. Last minute gift shopping? Visit our expansive modern furniture showroom — or shop online 24/7 at UrbanspaceInteriors.com.

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BARTON CREEK TARRYTOWN

Contemporary build located on an exclusive/private street off of Wimberly Lane. No detail is overlooked in this pristine home designed by a popular local Architect in 2015. Built with Lueders Stone, metal and glass, providing unobstructed hill country views for miles. The third garage bay was converted into an office/studio/ playroom space. The interior living space flows seamlessly to the back yard with 40’ heated zero edge pool, built-in floating Coyote grill and Lueders fire pit. Main house 4,831 SF/Separate office 403 SF (per FP Graphics). Conveys with a mandatory Barton Creek CC Social Membership.

Luxury living in the heart of Tarrytown. This custom built home from Clint Small Homes and Agate Development is situated on a large .38 acer lot. This 5,527 sf home has 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths and 2 half baths along with a built-in bar for entertaining and a flex space that can be used as an office, work out room or anything else you desire. The chef’s kitchen opens onto the veranda, overlooking the pool and expansive lawn. With high-end finishes throughout, this gorgeous home is located within minutes of downtown Austin and the Domain.

christy@levy-properties.com

ASHLEY AMINI Developer/Realtor ashely@levy-properties.com

CHRISTY LEVY Broker

8938 WIMBERLY COVE / AUSTIN,TX 78735

2620 MARIA ANNA DR. / AUSTIN, TX 78703

LEA ANNE ERWIN Realtor LeaAnne@levy-properties.com

CONTENTS

JULY AUG

DEPARTMENTS

Social Hour p. 10

Kristin’s Column p. 14

Tribeza Talk p. 16

Karen’s Pick p. 62

Dining Guide p. 64

Arts & Entertainment Calendars p. 76

FEATURES

Conquering the Hottest, Coolest Time in Texas p. 26

Get Lost p. 36

Hang Loose p. 42

Summertime and the Livin’s Easy p. 48

Weekend at Boerne p. 54

GUIDE

Summer Getaway Guide p. 21

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SETTING the STANDARD for REAL ESTATE EXCELLENCE ACROSS

As we expand into new markets throughout Texas, our firm is prepared to support clients with unique local insight and industry expertise. Since 1989, we have consistently met the needs of luxury buyers and sellers throughout Central and South Texas with our knowledge of Residential, Land & Ranch, and Commercial real estate. Call on our outstanding agents in your search for a property of true distinction.

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N THIS MONTH’S SUMMER ISSUE, WE ARE TRULY “CONQUERING the Hottest, Coolest Time in Texas” — VIP style. The team and I visited Schlitterbahn, and we were instantly 11 again. For those of us who grew up in Texas in the 90s, Schlitterbahn was our mecca. Our parents’ favorite bribe. The kids and I braved the lazy (actually, not so lazy) river, ducked the fake anaconda in the Congo River Expedition, dominated the Master Blaster, got stuck in the Soda Straw Body Slide, fell hard for The Falls and literally almost lost our bottoms in Dragon’s Revenge. It was two days of pure bliss! We were gifted the premium cabana, the much-needed Blast Pass and treated to the resort’s nightly outdoor movies and s’mores. Trust me, once you’ve experienced Schlitterbahn in style, you’ll never go basic again.

Back to reality in the ATX, it’s downright uncomfortable and often challenging to entertain yourself and the kiddos during the summer months. Let’s face it — it’s stiflingly, blisteringly, unendingly hot in Central Texas. There’s really no way to survive other than finding yourself in a body of water. In “Summertime and the Livin’s Easy,” we’re finding ways to wear out the littles, while also acknowledging the need for adult activities. From a rustic floating bar top to retro boat rentals, aquatic exercise, SUP, kayaks and duck tours, these nine activities are some of the most fun ways to get wet this summer. Check out Floaties, Rowing Dock, Retro Boat Rentals, Lake Austin Spa Resort, Lake Travis Yacht Rentals, Float On, ATXcursions, Austin Duck Adventures and Austin Yacht Club.

In this issue, we are also inviting you to come together for a conservation mission at Rhinory. In “Rhinos and Winos” Craig Stevens and Chesney Castleberry transformed 55 aces in Fredericksburg into a rhino farm and winery. The benefit of having rhinos in non-native areas like Texas with similar climates and topographies as Africa is that there will be a reserve population if they are poached to extinction. All winery guests get to enjoy the beautiful Hill Country scenery, as well as meet their rhino, Blake, in a personal setting.

“We’re very focused on making sure that when people come to our facility, not only do they have a great educational experience, but they are legitimately contributing to rhino conservation,” Craig says.

Finally, if you’re looking to “Get Lost” this summer, disconnect and explore nature within the 100 acres of Missing Hotel. Most people would advise against roaming the woods late at night. At Missing Hotel, it’s encouraged. Opened in 2022, Missing Hotel is … well, somewhere in between Marble Falls and Liberty Hill. The owners, Stephen and Sam Hopkins, prefer to keep it kind of mysterious until you book your stay in one of their 11 custom-built

structures — ranging from geodesic domes to small, luxury villas — all outfitted with fire pits, decks, private restrooms and either a plunge pool or hot tub.

“We seek to provide a retreat from the outside world and into nature. During your stay, we want you to imagine the best version of yourself, and we hope that glimmer doesn’t leave your eyes for the duration of your stay,” explains Stephen.

Like a scavenger hunt, the Hopkinses’ manifesto for Missing Hotel is to help guests disconnect and go a little missing. You’ll receive general instructions on how to reach your shelter, as well as a basic map, but it’s up to you to explore the property that includes three miles of trails, hidden “outdoor living room” vignettes tucked away into the trees, lookout points, meditation labyrinth, field with two mini cows (Elvis and Presley) and even a game area complete with a putting green.

“It’s a space to regroup, explore, create, process, breathe more easily and feel genuinely looked after. It’s permission to go missing for a while, trusting that when you return home, you’ll be better for it,” Sam says.

Stay cool, Austin!

Carrie Crowe Executive Editor

LEAVING AN INDELIBLE MARK ON DESIGN

Ashby Collective, the renowned design firm previously known as Mark Ashby Design, is embarking on a new phase of growth by venturing into large-scale commercial projects. Their expertise in luxury residential design, recognized by prestigious publications such as the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Architectural Digest, and Elle Decor, now extends to include commercial spaces.

Led by industry veterans and company principals Mark Ashby, Anne Grandinetti, Michele Lorenz, and Christina Simon, Ashby Collective has built a reputation for impeccable attention to detail and unparalleled aesthetic sensibilities. Acclaimed for their commercial design of Austin's celebrated Jeffrey's restaurant in Clarksville, their proven track record in creating stunning residential interiors ensures that their venture into commercial projects will elevate the city's office spaces, boutique hotels, and restaurants to higher levels of luxury and refinement.

One of their most anticipated endeavors is the residential tower at 6th and Guadalupe (6G), where Ashby Collective, under the guidance of Principal Anne Grandinetti, Designer Cori Pfaff, and Commercial Project Manager Arti Patel, has designed public spaces that embody a refined luxury while remaining approachable. The Residences at 6G exemplify the firm's seamless transition from residential interiors to multifamily and commercial spaces, setting a new benchmark for sophistication and elegance in the heart of Austin.

Ashby Collective's expansion into large-scale commercial projects signifies their commitment to pushing boundaries and creating remarkable spaces. With their exceptional talent and ability to infuse luxury and refinement into every project, Ashby Collective is leaving an indelible mark on the design landscape of Austin. www.ashbycollective.com

AUSTIN CURATED

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Carrie Crowe

ART DIRECTION

TheFitBiz, Inc.

DIRECTOR DIGITAL STRATEGY

Georgie Miller

DIGITAL EDITORIAL MANGER

Heidi Okla

DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER

Holly Cowart

DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR

Jenna Belle Fuhrmann

DIGITAL EDITORIAL INTERN

Meadow Chase

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

David Clough

COLUMNISTS

Kristin Armstrong

Karen O. Spezia

WRITERS

Liz Harroun

Lauren Jones

Avery Matschek

Britni Rachal

Carolynn Solorio

COPY EDITOR

Ashley Brown

EDITORIAL INTERN

Carolynn Solorio

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Weston Carls

Holly Cowart

Drew Elaine

Brian Fitzsimmons

Jonathan Garza

Liz Harroun

Lauren Rose

Brittany Dawn Short

CONTRIBUTING ARTIST

Wes Rowell

PRESIDENT

Chad Miller

PUBLISHER

Krissy LittleStar Hearn

ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

Ashley Beall

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Leah Strahan

DIRECTOR OF EVENTS

Becca Gutierrez Schafer

ACCOUNTING MANAGER

Melanie Rognerud

TRIBEZA MEDIA, LLC

Jim Kastleman – Chairman

Chad Miller

Holly Moore

TRIBEZA AMBASSADOR

George Elliman

706A West 34th Street Austin, Texas 78705 ph (512) 474 4711 | fax (512) 474 4715 tribeza.com

Founded in March 2001, TRIBEZA is Austin’s leading locally-owned arts and culture magazine.

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THANK YOU TO OUR VALUED CLIENTS FOR A SUCCESSFUL YEAR IN THE AUSTIN MARKET.

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Social HOUR

BLANTON MUSEUM’S MEMBER GARDEN PARTY

Members of Blanton Museum of Art got an exclusive preview of its revitalized grounds at the Member Garden Party on May 3. Designed by acclaimed international design firm Snøhetta, new additions include a canopy of eye-catching “petals” that shade the Moody Patio. The grounds also feature outdoor performance stages, immersive artwork and plenty of space for picnicking during the Blanton’s Second Saturdays series.

ESTILO KIDS OPENING

Estilo KIDS opened in Tarrytown on May 5, joining shopping destinations Estilo Boutique and Estilo Men. The Cinco de Mayo-themed party had flower crown-making, piñatas and a mariachi band, along with fashionable and fun youth styles and décor. The store will host events, such as book readings by children’s authors, throughout the year and a fashion show for back-to-school clothes in Sept.

LBJ FOUNDATION GALA

On May 12, the LBJ Foundation presented its highest honor, the LBJ Liberty & Justice for All Award, to Willie Nelson at a sold-out gala at the LBJ Presidential Library, which featured performances by Eric Church, Sam Hunt, Elle King and Lyle Lovett. In honor of Nelson’s longtime philanthropy and commitment to family farms and sustainable agriculture, net proceeds benefit the Willie Nelson Endowment for Uplifting Rural Communities at the LBJ

School of Public Affairs.

MEMBER GARDEN PARTY 1. Kristen Clemmer & Jonathan Chaka Mahone 2. Jennifer Lioy, Carlotta Stankiewicz, Meg Burns, & Katie Bruton 3. Sergei & Stephanie Belov 4. Anna Merryman & Brian Landry ESTILO KIDS OPENING 5.Stephanie, Todd, Madison & Lillian O’Neill 6. Linsey, Juliette & Brooke Nixon

7. Jamie & Emmy Chandlee LBJ FOUNDATION GALA

8. Will Holleman, Sarah Holleman, Whitney Gaines & Charles Gaines

9. Annie Nelson, Lynda Johnson Robb, Luci Baines Johnson & Willie Nelson 10. Elle King 11. Lyle Lovett

GARDEN PARTY PHOTOS COURTESY OF BLANTON MUSEUM OF ART, ESTILO KIDS

PHOTOS BY JENNA MCELROY, LBJ FOUNDATION PHOTOS BY LAURA SKELDING AND JAY GODWIN

Social HOUR

PARAMOUNT THEATRE’S 108TH ANNIVERSARY GALA

Paramount Theatre held its Anniversary Gala on May 13, supporting the preservation of Austin’s oldest theater and its award-winning education programs. The Rockabilly Noches night was inspired by the eclectic sounds of Grammy award-winning band The Mavericks and their incredible 30-year career. Glammed-out guests toasted to Paramount’s 108 years in business, raising funds to support the institution’s vital programs for years to come.

JUICE CONSULTING SWEET 16 BIRTHDAY BASH

Austin-based PR and marketing agency, Juice Consulting, threw a 16th birthday bash on May 19 at Native. Guests in ‘80s themed outfits grooved to live sets from Henry Invisible and Primo the Alien, sipped signature drinks and enjoyed pop-ups from Gold Rush Vinyl and Modern Rocks Gallery. Started by Heather Wagner Reed in 2007, this yearly celebration is dedicated to Austin’s female entrepreneurs, community leaders and business owners.

HOT LUCK FESTIVAL 2023

Hot Luck hosted its annual fest over Memorial Day Weekend with unique culinary gatherings. Created by Aaron Franklin, James Moody and Mike Thelin in 2017, the extravaganza offered amazing plates from acclaimed local and national chefs, kicking off with the Hi, How Are You? Hootenanny at Franklin Barbecue and culminating in the open-fire Al Fuego cook-off on Sunday at Wild Onion Ranch.

PARAMOUNT GALA 1. Lori Owen & Molly Collie 2. Casey & Attics Rowe 3. Alexandra & Dr. William Oliver 4. Andrew & Mary Ann Heller 5. Marie Vargas & Zach Ernst JUICE CONSULTING BASH

6. Primo the Alien 7. Henry Invisible 8. Heather & Jonathon Wagner 9. Joe Stallone & Jennavieve Rasmussen 10. Luke Lidell & Taylor Green HOT LUCK 11. Jane Yun 12. Joel Burt & Eric Wareheim 13. Aaron Franklin 14. Taylor Prinsen

“What struck us the most about Tammy was her impeccable sense of taste, her great eye for

and her honesty in her opinion of them. She

interested in just getting a deal done. She wanted to make sure we loved our new

- S. Steele, Travis Heights

Love At First Sight

IREMEMBER BEING 42 YEARS OLD IN THE ophthalmologist’s office, complaining that my eyesight was going down the tubes due to typing on my tiny Blackberry keyboard before I got my iPhone. The doctor asked me how old I was, then laughed and said it wasn’t my phone’s fault — it was my age. Needless to say, I was not amused. Fast forward almost a decade and the decline became more noticeable. The text size on my phone grew and grew. I had to pinch-expand every photo to make it big enough to confirm identities or see details, even taking screenshots of small print on product labels so I could zoom in on that too. Dark restaurants required my phone flashlight to see the menu; or else I just went with the waiter’s favorite. I went on a running trek in the Alps, and I had to stop to get my readers out of my pack every time I needed to consult the trail map. I couldn’t see a price tag in any store, which was actually kind of nice until I got my total bill. Makeup could only be done in a 10X makeup mirror. I started stashing readers everywhere. Even in my car cupholder – readers on to see Waze, readers off to see the road (not safe At All). On. Off. On. Off. On. Off. I feared I would soon be an old lady wearing my readers on a chain around my neck, so I could find those too. Probably the worst wakeup call was going scuba diving. You cannot take off your mask to put your readers on to check your oxygen level or depth gauge. Thank God I could trust my dive buddy, or I would be dead. Something had to change.

I’m not a candidate for Lasik, with my closeup vision being my main issue. I tried wearing contacts but that was an impossible feat — I am a manic blinker. It’s so bad that no one can put

makeup on me, and I cannot walk in snow. I once was able to get a contact lens in, after several miserable, sweat-soaked hours of practice in the eye doctor’s office. But then I sobbed when I could not get it out and no one could help me. The impatient assistant with the talon acrylic nails kept telling me to “just pinch my eyeball” and proceeded to spear her own as an example. I almost vomited.

On a recent (and very overdue) visit to a new (and much kinder) eye doctor, I confessed my struggles. Oddly enough, this was the first time I ever felt seen in an ophthalmologist’s office. She understood that relying on readers is not a solution for someone who wants to live an active lifestyle. She asked me if I had ever heard of Refractive Lens Exchange (I had not), and set me up with a referral to a respected eye surgeon.

I almost needed a Valium just to go to that initial consultation appointment. I summoned all the courage I could and I went with an open (and hopeful) mind.

Several weeks later, I did one of the bravest and best things I have ever done. In a simple, semi-sedated (thank you God), ten-minute surgery, Dr. Dell did the equivalent of a cataract surgery, except that rather than removing cataracts, he replaced the lens of my left eye. It was painless. The recovery was nil. I had a weirdly dilated pupil for a day or so. But y’all, I am not exaggerating here = I have been reborn.

I am a new person. Seeing life as if for the first time, in complete awe. I can tell which is shampoo and which is conditioner in the shower. I can read the tiny print on a medicine bottle. My iPhone text size is reset to normal. I could read my boarding

pass and find my seat on the airplane. I can simultaneously see street signs, oncoming traffic and consult Waze. I can write notes in sessions with my clients, and look up to see the tiny micro-expressions on their faces, which is an essential part of what I do.

I am looking forward (literally, ha!) to an amazing summer. We are making another attempt at the Mille Miglia vintage car rally in Italy this June, and I will be able to navigate wearing sunglasses this year! When I walk down the aisle at our wedding in August, I will see each precious face gathered around us. I will be able to read my vows without pulling readers out of my dress. Actually, I still won’t be able to see them but that will be because of tears rather than blindness. I will see into the depths of my gorgeous husband’s ocean blue eyes, smiling back at me.

I will step clearly, and gratefully, into the rest of my life.

By Kristin Armstrong Illustration by Anna Kamburis Portrait by Laura Doss

By Avery Matschek

DATE NIGHT

13 UNIQUE SUMMER SPOTS FOR ROMANCE AND ADVENTURE

Whether you’re looking to mix up your typical date night routine with your longterm partner or getting to know a new romantic interest, Austin holds a number of interesting and summer-friendly date night destinations to discover.

GRAB A DRINK AT EDEN COCKTAIL ROOM

Tucked away in an alley off of Sixth Street, Eden Cocktail Room is an intimate speakeasy elevating the average “let’s grab a drink!” date. The bar brings an adventurous and creative twist to high-quality craft cocktails by master bartender Chris Crow, formerly of Here Nor There. Your date will be impressed as you take them through a bright purple door to discover this romantic hidden gem.

edencocktailroom.com

PLAY A ROUND AT SPARE BIRDIE

Located in Cedar Park, Spare Birdie is a modern entertainment venue boasting bowling, live music, virtual golf, food, drinks and more, making it a wonderful chooseyour-own-adventure for any pair! The glass box open kitchen and full bar will satisfy all tastebuds as guests game their way through the impressive space. And yes, it’s a bit of a drive, but this destination is worth the effort! sparebirdie.com

CATCH A FREE SHOW AT THE LONG CENTER’S DROP-IN SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Held every Thursday night from May 25 through August 10, The Long Center’s Drop-In Summer Concert Series is back with more music than ever before. Featured artists include THEBROSFRESH, Urban Heat and Aubrey Hays, with many more in the 2023 lineup. The next artist will be announced on Fridays, with RSVPs opening on Mondays. Grab a blanket or a lawn chair and check out the free performances at the Long Center’s recently unveiled 3D-printed performance pavilion. thelongsenter.org/thedropin

PARTICIPATE IN RED RIVER CULTURAL DISTRICT’S HOT SUMMER NIGHTS FESTIVAL

Held from July 20 to 23, Hot Summer Nights is a three-day weekend of free concerts at many iconic venues located in the Red River Cultural District. Many of the participating artists are local, and even though the events are free to attend, the musicians are still financially supported through sponsors and donors. Take advantage of this incredible fest by visiting venues such as Cheer Up Charlie’s, Stubb’s Bar-B-Q and Mohawk with your favorite date. redriverculturaldistrict.org/hot-summer-nights

TASTE ALL THE WINE AT WANDERLUST WINE CO.

Drink to your heart’s desire at Wanderlust Wine Co., where patrons pour their own glasses of vino from a number of taps. Because of the unique pouring experience, the wine is as fresh as possible, served sustainably from innovative kegs to give guests the chance to taste varieties from around the world. The standard tasting experience makes for a wonderful date, but Wanderlust also hosts painting classes, trivia nights and other special events at their three locales around the city.

wanderlustwine.com

TAKE A CLASS AT GHOST PEPPER GLASS

Activity-based dates are perfect for couples looking to mix up their typical date night routine or new companions getting to know each other. Ghost Pepper Glass is an amazing glassblowing studio that offers classes and workshops for all skill levels. Take the “Taste of Glassblowing” class for a crash course in glassblowing from an experienced instructor. Plus, you’ll get to take home your very own creation to commemorate the experience. ghostpepperglass.com

WATCH LIVE JAZZ MUSIC AT ELEPHANT ROOM

A night at Elephant Room is an iconic Austin experience that every local should experience, so why not make it your next late night date night? Cap off an evening out with a drink at this funky basement bar that’s been the performance home to many talented jazz musicians for more than 30 years.

elephantroom.com

ENJOY HAPPY HOUR AT HONEY MOON SPIRIT LOUNGE

A happy hour date may seem low key for a night out, but make the date at Honey Moon and you’ll swoon at the eatery’s romantic atmosphere and stunning food and drinks. Happy hour is held from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. We recommend the flaky and delicious Honey Moon biscuits, which are only $4 during happy hour, and a half-price glass of Wavy Wines LS Gris Orange Wine. honeymoonspiritlounge.com

EAT A SUNSET PICNIC AT MOUNT BONNELL

A picnic at sunset is a tried-and-true date idea. Level up the experience with an incredible 360-degree view of Austin at Mount Bonnell. Pick up charcuterie from Antonelli’s Cheese Shop and take in the gorgeous skyline and lakeside nature. Note that there’s a steep set of stairs that could work up a quick sweat, but the view is worth every step. mountbonnell.com

SEE A COMEDIAN AT CAP CITY COMEDY CLUB

Break that first date tension with a mountain of laughs at Cap City Comedy Club. Local talents and world-renowned comics flock to this comedy hub, which was established in 1986. Comedians scheduled for the summer include David Koechner, Kim Congdon and Bruce Bruce. For a more personal experience, catch a show at The Red Room, an intimate space at Cap City that presents up-and-coming talents. capcitycomedy.com

EXPLORE HAMILTON POOL PRESERVE

We love a weekend outdoor date, and the Hamilton Pool Preserve is an ideal destination for just that with its hiking trails and natural swimming area. The Dripping Springs nature preserve is home to beautiful plants and a variety of wildlife, but the real highlight is the 50-foot waterfall that flows into the head of a canyon. Reservations are required, so plan ahead! parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/hamilton-pool-preserve

SPLURGE ON A STAYCATION AT SAGE HILL INN & SPA

Instead of a one-night date, make it a full getaway with a weekend at Sage Hill Inn & Spa in the Texas Hill Country. Every stay at this 88-acre retreat includes daily breakfast and a three-course dinner. Travelers can get active at the inn’s pickleball courts and hiking trails, or fully unwind with a trip to the spa, pool or hot tub. With a focus on romance and luxury, this is an ideal locale for an anniversary celebration or first weekend trip as a couple. sagehill.com

THROW AXES AT URBAN AXES

If you’re trying to ease those first date nerves, get busy throwing axes at Urban Axes. This exciting activity begins with instruction from a fully trained coach who teaches visitors how to hit a bullseye. Get competitive with your partner and move out of your comfort zone with an exhilarating visit to Urban Axes! urbanaxes.com

HAMILTON POOL PHOTO BY TREY PERRY VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS, SAGE HILL PHOTO COURTESY OF SAGE HILL, URBAN AXES PHOTO COURTESY OF URBAN AXES

Guide

No need to book a plane ticket…you can find idyllic locations for a summer retreat at these spots that are all a short drive from home.

Creekhaven Inn & Spa

Rejuvenate mind, body, and soul with a relaxing getaway at Creekhaven Inn & Spa. With 16 spacious rooms on over three acres, an organic day spa, and a scratch made breakfast daily, Creekhaven is the perfect backdrop for a restorative escape. Enjoy weekly yoga, sound immersion, and meditation classes next to the tree lined creek, or stroll the trails and private lane as you make your way into

downtown Wimberley. Their organic spa packages include facials, massage, and specialty treatments all designed to melt the stress away while restoring balance to body and mind.

With a variety of rooms and private suites, Creekhaven Inn can accommodate single guests, couples, and small groups. Guests can work with Guest Services to design their own excursion, with

customized classes and spa packages, or join the many activities already happening around the inn.

400 Mill Race Lane, Wimberley, Texas creekhaveninn.com @creekhaveninn

El Castell

Find your perfect cabin getaway in the tiniest town in the Texas Hill Country, nestled along the banks of the spring-fed Llano River. Check out of your daily life and check into a serene, quiet life along the river, where you can connect with nature and reset.

Enjoy swimming or kayaking, hiking or fishing (they have a guide!), all while experiencing the tranquility of the outdoors, just outside Austin.

102 Rockin River Road, Castell, Texas castellcabins.com

@castelltexas

Walden Retreats

Where sanctuary and wilderness intersect

Discover the ultimate comfort amidst the rugged Texas Hill Country in a luxurious safari style canvas tent overlooking the Pedernales river. Just one hour from downtown Austin, Walden features 15 spacious tents, each meticulously designed to blend the comforts of a luxury hotel with the adventure of the outdoors.

1388 Gipson Road, Johnson City, Texas waldenretreats.com @waldenretreats

Lake Austin Spa Resort

Lake Austin Spa & Resort is a secluded oasis to relax, recharge and escape – either for the day or a well-needed staycation! Slip away to their luxe LakeHouse Spa with world renowned spa packages or stay at their all-inclusive lakeside boutique-style wellness resort for a well earned retreat experience.

1705 S Quinlan Park Road, Austin, Texas lakeaustin.com @lakeaustinspa

SUMMER FUN AWAITS YOU IN FREDERICKSBURG

Summer is in full swing and now is the perfect time to plan a trip to Fredericksburg. During the summer there are plenty of special events for all ages, diverse shopping, award-winning wine and unique places to stay.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Summer is stacked with special events. Celebrate the Fourth of July in style with a small-town parade, patriotic program and fireworks. The oldest, continuous county fair returns for its 135th year. Enjoy a parade, carnival, fair food, livestock judging, live music, pari-mutuel horse racing and more. Don’t miss out on the Fredericksburg Farmer’s Market, held every Thursday through mid-August. Talk with local farmers and producers and shop for fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, baked goods, wine and more.

SWEET PEACHES

Fredericksburg is the largest producer of peaches in Texas. Visit a roadside stand to pick up your favorite variety. Taste fresh baked pies and cobblers, sweet jams and jellies or cool off with a fresh scoop of peach ice cream.

TEXAS WINE COUNTRY

Discover the award-winning vino made by the wineries of the Texas Hill Country by booking a tour or simply tasting your way along Fredericksburg’s Urban Wine Trail. There are also more than 20 different transportation and tour companies, so you can leave the driving to the pros.

START PLANNING

One final tip – it is important to plan ahead by booking your lodging, restaurant and attraction choices in advance of arrival. And if you can plan your visit midweek, you will find greater availability on lodging, a more relaxed pace to shop and a more personalized experience at tasting rooms.

UNIQUE PLACES TO STAY

Fredericksburg is the unofficial unique lodging capital of Texas, offering everything from guesthouses, cabins, boutique inns and more. The area’s nearly 1,500 vacation rentals offer a picture-perfect setting to escape with beautiful sunsets, views for miles and stars that are bigger and brighter.

ONE-OF-A-KIND SHOPPING

Fredericksburg’s 150 shops, boutiques and art galleries provide an unlimited number of unique gifts for anyone. Find a new antique, a one-of-a-kind piece of art or a locally made treasure.

Make the Visitor Information Center your first stop. Talk with knowledgeable staff to make the most of your visit. Watch a 10-minute informational video on all there is to see and do. Enjoy free parking, free Wi-Fi and a water bottle filling station.

CONQUERING THE HOTTEST, COOLEST TIME IN TEXAS

By Tolly Moseley

Schlitterbahn is family-friendly, nostalgic and as it turns out, a bit bougie

When I posted to my Instagram Stories that I was spending the day at Schlitterbahn, here’s what happened:

“Awww memories!” my high school friend Amy wrote me. “Schlitterbahn babysat a generation of kids in central Texas,” she said, and she was right. I remember being dropped off several times with a gaggle of preteen girls, bursting out of a mom’s minivan with no more than a sunscreen bottle, a summer-worn swimsuit and a wad of modest cash. Towel? Not necessary. You’re mostly amphibious at Schlitterbahn.

“FOMO literally out of control,” Curtis wrote me. I told him I’d just ridden the roof slide — excuse me, the Downhill Racer — about 15 times with my daughter. It looked smaller

now than in my memories, where it’s a staggering 20 stories tall (it’s actually two stories tall). As kids, we both avoided that one a while. It just seemed too extreme.

Visiting Schlitterbahn as an adult, a parent no less, a few things have become immediately clear. First, nostalgia is a hell of a drug. For children who grew up in Texas in the 90s, Schlitterbahn was your mecca. Your parents’ favorite bribe. It may have also been your parents’ place of employment, as several off-duty teachers took to Schlitterbahn during summertime, slinging our tubes down spring-fed lazy rivers, catching us at the bottom of chutes, blowing their whistles when we got too rowdy. No matter your actual age, you are 11 when you are at Schlitterbahn. You may be eight, but

trust me, when you’re flying down the Master Blaster, you are brave beyond your years, you are adrenaline embodied, you are different now, you are bolder, you are accomplished, you are energetically 11 years old.

Or you are 41, you are writing for a magazine, and you are ducking a fake anaconda in the Congo River Expedition — the one shooting venom (okay, water) at you, it’s a constrictor after all — and you’re floating into a dark cave, the one with spooky jungle sounds from a wall-mount speaker, and now you’re going down a 45-degree angle waterfall — now you’re shrieking, now you’re laughing, now you’re 11. Not 41 … 11. Trust me.

Here’s the second truth revealed by my day at Schlitterbahn: you can be a little fancy about it.

Opened in 1979, Schlitterbahn has always had a by the people, for the people vibe. This is what I appreciate about it. Daily admission tickets start at $47.99, and you can get a season pass with unlimited visits for $110. Not too bad. But what you save in dollars, you pay for in … walking. And waiting in lines. And taking things out of your locker a million times. Can I admit something? All these things are (mostly) tolerable for me. I’ll chat it up on the Soda Straws stairs. I’ll enjoy my Dippin’ Dots, traversing from Bavarian castle to Bavarian castle. But you know who all of this is not tolerable for? Children. Children do not like to wait. Who can blame them? They’re at freakin’ Schlitterbahn.

PHOTO BY VICTORIA R. GAYTÁN

Rent a cabana

Oh my God, I didn’t even know these existed, but they’re quite the upgrade from lockers. Ranging in price from $150 to $425, they’re a little hangout zone for you and your crew, with amenities like loungers, private parking spaces, TVs, a mini fridge and sometimes a “Cabana Host” (a waiter). The Treehaus Premium Cabanas are the bougiest of these — the Venn diagram where fancy meets campy. You’ll love it.

So if you’re a parent, or someone who likes to save time, or simply want to treat yo’self, here’s what you do at Schlitterbahn:

Buy a BlastPass

Pretty sure the secret’s out on these, but they start at $95, and they function like a smartwatch. You “reserve” your place in line, and when your ride is ready, you skip up the stairs past your fellow Schlitterbahn goers, right in front. If there’s any one Schlitterbahn upgrade I would personally buy, this is the one.

Stay at the resort

I’d always wondered what those cabins were as a kid, the ones overlooking the Comal River. Did people live there? Did employees hang out there?

How did you live the kind of blessed life that allowed you access to those mysterious, special cabins? Turns out they belong to the Schlitterbahn Resort, and you can totally stay in one. Think ’70s summer camp vibes, with kid-friendly movies screening every night, and a popcorn/candy/s’mores station with a super friendly attendant. There are all kinds of places to stay on or near the Schlitterbahn grounds, but this one is nice because you can literally wake up and walk into the old park, the west park. Fun fact: it’s the OG resort, retro-feeling because it’s actually retro. P.S. This is also the best parking.

TOP PHOTO BY VICTORIA R. GAYTÁN, RESORT PHOTO COURTESY OF SCHLITTERBAHN

Go to a swim-up bar

These exist in both of the Schlitterbahn parks: the afore-mentioned original, west park, and the east park that’s broken up into two newer, shinier spectacles. No matter which park you’re visiting, do yourself a favor: be totally silly, swim up to the bar and order the adult version of a Slushie. A frozen margarita. A piña colada. Something I had that was piña colada in flavor, but a Bomb Pop in color — a red, white, blue and highly Instagrammable drink. It’s ridiculous. Be ridiculous! You’re at Schlitterbahn, the ultimate safe space as these things go.

A few more practical tips while you’re at Schlitterbahn: No matter what, you’ll walk a lot, so wear sensible shoes. Reapply sunscreen literally all the time. Bring snacks! The food is … okay, but you can BYOS (snacks) to Schlitterbahn, and it’s totally legit. Wear one of those smartphone protector necklaces, as you will want to take a thousand pictures, or live video stream yourself going down Cliffhanger Tube Chute. Are you a water park influencer? You are now. Have fun. Enjoy being 11 again.

You’re at Schlitterbahn, baby.

schlitterbahn.com/new-braunfels

Making Waves

SISTERS LISA STRANDBERG AND KAITIE

Sjostedt grew up on the Florida coast. They had three brothers, who made beach life even more exciting.

THE

SHORE

LINE’S RESORT WEAR IS A BRAND FOR WOMEN, BY WOMEN

By Liz Harroun

Photos by Justin Macala

“I would always travel with my brothers,” says Lisa, the older of the two sisters. “I remember packing up a backpack for weekend surf trips, thinking what would look cool and still work to hang out with the guys while they’re surfing.”

After high school, Lisa moved to New York to pursue a career in modeling. She traveled the world modeling and later as an agent. Meanwhile, her love for fashion continued to grow and evolve.

When Lisa was in New York working as an agent

at Ford Models, Kaitie, who was still in high school and unsure what she wanted to do after she graduated, came to visit the big city. Lisa introduced her to a friend studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan. When Kaitie visited the campus, she knew that her next step was to study fashion there.

After finishing high school in Florida, Kaitie moved to New York to earn her Bachelor’s degree in textile development at FIT. She studied design, textiles, knits and woven materials, as well as interned with designer brands like Givenchy, Rebecca Taylor and Michael Kors. After college, she joined the team at LVMH in fabric research and development.

As Lisa was immersed in the talent and modeling behind the fashion industry, Kaitie was learning invaluable technical design skills. “It was like us coming together,” says Lisa.

Even then, they would dream about ways to couple their skills to build something. Because of their childhood, beachside wear was always top of mind, especially because Lisa still found it difficult to find stylish clothes to wear while at the beach or lake.

Throughout the years, Lisa and Kaitie continued bouncing around ideas for their own brand, but nothing felt quite right. It wasn’t until the end of 2018 that the idea unexpectedly (and messily) hit Lisa.

“My son came running up to me with a packet of ketchup, and I had this great resort-wear piece on that I absolutely loved,” recalls Lisa. “The ketchup just went all over me. And I realized I could make something a little bit easier to wear and wash but still on trend.”

In 2019 and 2020, Lisa and Kaitie started building the brand and designing pieces inspired by their Florida roots but infused with their experiences in New York as well. The pandemic was a big motivator for them to finally launch the brand. They worked tirelessly revisiting childhood dreams, drafting the business plan, designing clothes and ideating their first campaign.

Lisa and her family, who have lived primarily in Austin for the past 12 years, spent a full year back home in Florida’s Tampa Bay area, where Lisa and her husband met over 20 years ago. This allowed Lisa to be fully immersed in the beach and surf culture

that was inspiring the brand she was building. The result is an array of versatile pieces, focused on fit and fabric, that round out any vacation wardrobe.

“We wanted to hit that middle ground of in step with fashion but still really wearable — effortlessly cool and comfortable,” says Lisa.

THE SHORE LINE officially launched in 2021, inspired by their childhood spent on the beach. Lisa’s experience in the modeling industry has lent well to creating beautiful campaigns in several beachside locations, where she manages the photographers and models to create stunning images. Meanwhile, Kaitie is still very hands-on regarding the technical design of the clothes. Oftentimes, Lisa has a vision for their next piece and will call Kaitie to talk through the technical side and then start to put the vision on paper.

Everything is made in New York, making it easy for Kaitie to manage and visit (she currently splits her time between New York and Tampa. Lisa runs the business from Austin and is planning to hire another full-time team member soon. Currently, her 17-year-old son is doing the social media marketing.

“He’s incredible at it,” says Lisa. “He sold us out of all of our stuff in two days. We’re having to change our stock because everything got picked up so quickly”

I don’t doubt it, because if I were served an ad from THE SHORE LINE, I’d be in-

trigued. The photos are incredibly captivating, and the clothes are feminine and breathable yet still exude “cool surfer chick” vibes. Made by women for women who don’t want to compromise style while out on the

lake or beach, THE SHORE LINE clothes are a must-have for your summer wardrobe.  thisistheshoreline.com

“WE WANTED TO HIT THAT MIDDLE GROUND OF IN STEP WITH FASHION BUT STILL REALLY WEARABLE — EFFORTLESSLY COOL AND COMFORTABLE.”

WEST CHELSEA CONTEMPORARY’S FRAME SHOP FOR AUSTIN ART LOVERS

CONSULTANTS WILL HELP DESIGN CUSTOM FRAMES TO PROTECT AND AMPLIFY YOUR FAVORITE PIECES

Good art is timeless and meant to be appreciated long after its acquisition. The frame that holds artwork can enhance its beauty and help preserve it for generations to come. West Chelsea Contemporary (WCC) offers premier framing services and consultation for your art and memorabilia. They make it seamless to protect and display your most cherished pieces.

If you purchase art from WCC — whether on canvas, paper, or a print from the print shop  — you can go through the framing process to add or change a frame for that specific piece. You can also bring external art or memorabilia, such as family photos, into the frame shop to go through the custom framing process.  Either way, the art consultants work with you to design the perfect frame for your piece. WCC has an incredible selection of frame molding — including shadow boxes, floater frames, standard frames, and metal frames in various finishes. You will also work with your consultant to choose the matte board and glass. All materials, including the glass, are museum-quality, so that you can rest assured your artwork will be preserved for longer.

If all of these options sound overwhelming to you, that’s why your art consultant is there to walk you through every step of the process. They can help

you narrow down options based on the piece and its future surroundings. If you already know what you want, they will help you make the selections to bring your vision to life.

“Our consultants are experts at helping you figure out how you want it to fit into your home and the sort of vision you have,” says Rachel Beaudoin, assistant curator at WCC. “There are so many ways we can get creative with clients depending on interests, budget, and style.”

It takes about two weeks to make the custom frame, after which a logistics specialist can come to your home to hang it on the wall, especially helpful if it’s in a high or hard-to-reach spot.

Stop by the WCC Gallery in Austin or the WCC Frame Shop in Dripping Springs for a premium selection and experience that will pay off in more appreciation and preservation of your precious art.

BY DARCIE DUTTWEILER PHOTOS COURTESY OF MISSING HOTEL

Not only are there relaxation pockets throughout the 100 acres that are outfitted with glittering lights only visible in the darkness, but the night is when the senses are heightened and it’s easier to attune to your surroundings. There’s the sparkling Hill Country sky dazzling in stars, the twinkling fireflies dancing in between the trees, the crackling of firewood in fire pits and the gentle

psithurism. Wait, what’s that word? Meaning “a rustling or whispering sound, such as leaves in the wind,” psithurism is a favorite word of Sam Hopkins and her husband Stephen, the owners of Missing Hotel.

“When we were in Australia, I saw a poster that had the definition of ‘psithurism’ on it,” Sam says. “I was intrigued by the word, and now every time I hear the rustle of the trees, I think of the poster and take a minute to enjoy that there is actually a word for that!”

Opened in 2022, Missing Hotel is … well, somewhere in between Marble Falls and Liberty Hill. The Hopkinses prefer to keep it kind of mysterious until you book your stay in one of their 11 custom-built structures, which range from geodesic domes to small, luxury villas, all outfitted with fire pits,

Most people would advise against roaming the woods late at night. At Missing Hotel, it’s encouraged.

decks, private restrooms and either a plunge pool or hot tub. Each structure is unique (and given an equally unique name), but they all offer beautiful forest views, serenity and small details to make guests feel at home, like curated records and books, cozy towels and blankets and, mercifully, air conditioning.

“We seek to provide a retreat from the outside world and into nature. During your stay, we want you to imagine the best version of yourself, and we hope that glimmer doesn’t leave your eyes for the duration of your stay,” explains Stephen.

Almost like a scavenger hunt, the Hopkinses’ manifesto for Missing Hotel is to help guests disconnect and go a little missing. Guests receive general instructions on how to reach their shelter, as well as a basic map, but it’s up to them to explore the property — including three miles of trails, hidden “outdoor living room” vignettes tucked away into the trees, lookout points, meditation labyrinth, field with two mini cows (Elvis and Presley) and even a game area complete with a putting green — at their leisure. Sam says her favorite pastime on the property is forest bathing — think more like meditating in the trees to savor the sounds, smells and sights rather than a hike with a clear-cut destination.

“The more people venture out, the more they will experience,” says

Tom Hopkinses, Missing Hotel’s Guest Liaison (and Stephen’s father, who also helps build, renovate, fix and generally manage structures on the property).

Tom is also one of the night time forest bathing advocates, telling a tale of millions of fireflies surrounding him and his golden doodle Piper while out for a midnight stroll in a field. “In the daytime it’s gorgeous, but the nighttime is just magical.”

The Hopkinses met during a travel abroad semester from University of Oklahoma in Spain and immediately bonded over their love of adventure and exploring other countries. Now married with a young daughter, the couple has traveled to more than 50 countries, owing their vacation flexibility to Sam and Stephen’s entrepreneurial successes in the energy industry.

Along their many travels, the couple took notes of elements and experiences that left an impression on them and decided to create a place that evoked all of those deep meanings and share them with others. While living in Houston, they’d travel to Austin and the Hill Country often and fell in love with its natural surroundings. They were lucky to find a parcel of 100 acres roughly an hour outside of Austin that was largely untouched and surrounded by the 50,000-acre Balcones Wildlife Preserve, and over the course of three years, created Missing Hotel.

“The uniqueness of our location is its seclusion, and the topography is dramatic with expansive views of the canyon,” Stephen says. “We’re proud we didn’t sacrifice the secluded settings we’ve created. The last thing we want when we’re getting away is to be twenty feet away from someone else.”

While Missing Hotel does indeed have wifi, it’s limited, and cell service is spotty at best. This is on purpose, according to the Hopkinses, who hope their guests unplug and unwind in nature, through forest bathing, grilling food outside, hiking and just reconnecting with themselves or each other.

“It’s a space to regroup, explore, create, process, breathe more easily and feel genuinely looked after. It’s permission to go missing for a while, trusting that when you return home, you’ll be better for it,” Sam says.  missinghotel.com

It’s permission to go missing for a while, trusting that when you return home, you’ll be better for it.”

SAM HOPKINS

Rhinos and Winos

COME TOGETHER FOR A CONSERVATION MISSION AT RHINORY

By Britni Rachal Photos by Matthew Skinner

HAVE YOU EVER HAD A SINGULAR experience that changed how you viewed your purpose in life? For some, it might be a neardeath experience or the birth of a child. For couple Craig Stevens and Chesney Castleberry, it was an unexpected tragedy they witnessed in 2016 while on a safari in South Africa — when two rhinos were poached in plain sight.

Unfortunately, the devastating rhino deaths that Craig and Chesney witnessed during their safari are not uncommon nor a new phenomenon. South Africa’s apartheid ended in 1991, but economic apartheid is still rampant, with White people owning more than 80% of the country’s land (despite only making up around 8% of the population).

At the same time apartheid ended, the South African government instituted the Game Theft Act, giving ownership to whom ever put enclosures around wild game land. Extensive rows of electric fencing went up overnight, marking off hundreds of miles of newly private land full of wild animals. In rural areas, generations of Black men and boys have now been cut off from a traditional rite of passage: hunting a wild animal. Meanwhile, rich White trophy hunters can still purchase hunting licenses (sometimes spending hundreds of thousands of dollars to do so), giving them exclusive legal access to these wild animals that historically played a huge role in the customs of the indigenous peoples.

African rhino horn sells for up to $9,000 per pound on illegitimate markets, making it especially enticing for people trying to get out of poverty. Because about 80% of African Rhinos are found in South Africa, it has the biggest problem with poaching. South Africans go to great lengths to protect these endangered animals, including high fences, drones and guards in jeeps with machine guns, but the issue is deeper and more complex than needing more security around protected areas.

“Despite these efforts, it struck home how bad rhino poaching is, and how they

will go extinct in Africa; it’s just a matter of time,” Craig says. “The poaching rate is much greater than the birth rate, so it’s just a simple math formula — they’re going to go extinct. And so we came back to the United States, trying to figure out what we could do for rhino conservation.”

The more they learned about the issue, the more they felt called to do something to help. Craig and Chesney have two kids. Craig then owned a successful marketing business. Chesney is a pediatric cardiologist and the Medical Director for the Heart Failure, VAD and Transplant Program within the Texas Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease. Needless to say, they didn’t need another project.

Still, even a couple of years after their trip, Craig couldn’t stop thinking about the rhinos. The most obvious way he could help without uprooting his family was by starting a conservation here. The benefit of having rhinos in non-native areas like Texas with similar climates and topographies is that there will be a preserve if they are poached to extinction in Africa. He had already asked his father-in-law, who owns land in Fredericksburg, if they could convert his acreage into a rhino farm, which (understandably) got shot down. While he and Chesney were visiting a winery in the Hill Country, though, an idea came to him: why not use this same land used for the vineyard to house rhinos?

Craig and Chesney already had a deep love for wine. They had traveled the

world to learn about wine, but the fascination with rhino conservation was new. When it clicked for Craig how they could combine both of these passions, he never looked back.

“And that set me down the path of building business models and contacting people in the rhino community, trying to put all the pieces together to build a winery focused on rhino conservation.”

In September 2019, Craig and Chesney bought 55 aces in Fredericksburg to make this dream possible. It backs up to the Pedernales River and has a creek winding through the property. The pandemic hit in early 2020 when they were starting to develop the land and vineyard. It could have been better timing since they had just started to break ground, but they decided to wait to open until the pandemic was under control. The pandemic shutdown also gave them time to get a rhino onto their land.

Blake was born at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, Texas, an hour’s drive southwest of Fort Worth. When they needed to bring in another male for Blake’s mom to breed, Blake needed a new home since male rhinos often fight to the death when put together. So that new home is the Rhinory for the foreseeable future, where Blake will be the only male.

They opened to the public in May 2022, and I met with Craig the day after celebrating the Rhinory’s one-year anniversary. He expressed deep gratitude for the support they’ve received from the community in the first year of busi-

ness. The biggest challenge has been managing unprecedented growth. The Rhinory gets hundreds of visitors each weekend and has hundreds more in the wine club, where members get special access to wine pick-up parties as well as rhino experiences where they get to spend time with Blake.

“I strongly believe people learn through experience,” says Craig. “And I wanted them to experience what a real live Rhino was up close.”

All winery guests get to enjoy the beautiful Hill Country scenery, as well as experience Blake in a personal setting, as the rhino pen is designed so that everyone can see him as they sip wine. Next to Blake’s pen is a grove of large oak trees that provide shade and additional natural beauty. There are three rhino keepers on staff (one of which being Christine Bobkoon, the incoming president of the International Rhino Keeper Association) who help care for Blake, as well as educate visitors on rhino conservation.

The vineyard isn’t fully productive yet, so the Texas grapes are currently coming from an estate vineyard in the Texas High Plains region. To celebrate the region native to the rhinos, and to add variety, they also showcase some South African wines. They work with Richard Kershaw, one of only about 400 masters of wine in the world, to make their South African wines.

“The wine is what keeps us alive, but the education and experience that people have when they come in define us and what we’re doing,” Craig says.

All revenue from rhino experiences and merchandise sales, as well as 20% of profits from wine sales, goes to rhino conservation. The Rhinory gave $100,000 to the International Rhino Foundation in its first year alone. Eventually, when Blake is old enough, they will bring some female rhinos onto the land to start breeding to increase the rhino population.

“We’re very focused on making sure that when people come to our facility, not only do they have a great experience, but they are legitimately contributing to rhino conservation,” Craig concludes.  rhinory.com

BY LIZ HARROUN PHOTOS COURTESY OF WACO SURF

HANG LOOSE

SURF’S UP IN CENTRAL TEXAS

was 28 years old when I learned how to surf. It was March 2020, and I had temporarily relocated to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, to spend time with my dad (and on the ocean) during the pandemic. Aside from a few hours of remote work each day, I had nothing to do and a lot of energy to expend. I had messed around riding bikes, running and teaching yoga, all in Texas — but I never claimed any special athletic ability. Luckily, through my previous endeavors, I’d learned balance and perseverance (for example, how to do handstands and gutting out long endurance rides and runs), which I assumed would help me tackle my biggest COVID project: learning to surf.

Above all else, I didn’t want to look like a “kook,” someone who pretends they can surf but has no skill or style, is stoked on bad waves and maybe even adds danger by breaking the rules of the line-up (the area where surfers wait for the waves to break). So I mostly surfed by myself, carrying my heavy longboard out to a quiet part of the beach every morning to learn how to stand up in incoming white water. Eventually, I paddled out farther, only to wipe out every day for a few weeks. That’s when I finally befriended a real surfer who taught me how to “read” the waves, how to tell from afar which would be most surfable. Three months lat-

er, I was catching some unbroken waves. But alas, when I was getting the hang of it, it was time to return to Austin. I found myself landlocked, dreaming of the ocean breeze and perfect waves.

A female surf instructor I had met in Florida had told me to check out Waco Surf Park before I left. She and her husband (both lifelong surfers who owned property in Florida and Nicaragua) had even traveled to Waco to use the facility. If these folks had access to some of the best ocean waves on the continent and still made it to Waco to surf, I certainly would.

My family lives in Dallas, so I

drive through Waco every few months to visit them (and have for the past 12 years, since I moved here to attend college). Before, I rarely stopped, besides sometimes to get a coffee at Common Grounds, a cute coffee house right off the highway. Now, however, I always check the Waco Surf website to see if I can book a surf session the day of my trip.

The first time, I went with a friend who also had some experience surfing, and we chose the intermediate wave. We both wiped out a lot and still had a blast. Since then, despite my hurt ego, I have surfed the beginner wave.

Amy Hunt has been the director of sales and marketing for Waco Surf since May 2021. She grew up surfing on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, Australia, and moved to California to pursue

fashion in her 20s. She and her husband (also a surfer and now Waco Surf’s general manager) were originally external consultants for Waco Surf amid new ownership.

“After a few visits to the site (and a few waves), we both went all in, moved from San Diego, and bought a house in Waco,” she says.

With its unique central location, the park attracts folks from across the country, including those coming in from California, Hawaii and Florida on a daily basis — and international guests from places like Australia, Brazil and Sweden on a weekly basis.

Waco Surf offers everything on-site for groups to make a trip out of it without leaving the park. Besides the surf park, they have a waterpark —

featuring a 5,280-foot lazy river that’s allegedly the longest in the world — as well as four extreme Wedge water slides (that frequently appear on viral social media videos).

There is also a world-renowned cable park that attracts everyone from beginners who want to learn about wakeboarding, to national champs working on their jumps. They recently hosted a college wakeboarding championship with Baylor University and had almost 200 riders from across the country compete on their cable circuit.

The property spans nearly 500 acres, with 150 acres of currently activated space. There is a small hotel on the beach, seven cabins (ranging in size to hold two to 14 people) sitting on the water’s edge of

the cable lake, five RV spots tucked away in the forest and two private houses with their own personal pools. So there’s lodging available to accommodate a variety of group sizes and budgets.

Over the past five years, they’ve leaned heavily into the food and beverage programs. On the surf side of the park, Surfside Shack serves up tacos, burritos, locally roasted coffee and canned beverages all day. The Star Bar, a recent addition thanks to Rockstar Energy, sits on the second level of the hotel, where you can watch the surfers below as you sip on a cocktail or beer. At the far end of the surf lagoon is a swim-up pool bar, called Dive Bar, that boasts heavy old-school motel vibes.

“We’ve leaned into the theme and added a frozen cocktail machine with our secret marg recipe,

perfect for floating around the pool and watching the surf,” Amy says.

Over on the water park side is the Wedge Grill, serving up smash burgers, sodas and canned alcoholic beverages right by the action of the four extreme Wedge water slides.

And lastly, don’t forget to check out Lakeside Saloon, which overlooks the cable park and has the best view of the resident lemurs (yep, you read that right), who live on the nearby island in the middle of the water.

For Amy, including other surfer aficionados on staff, the best part of their job is getting folks to surf on the surf park for the first time, which makes about three perfect waves around every 80 seconds (vastly surpassing what would be possible in the ocean).

“It’s so hard not to catch a smile walking around and talking to the guests about their time with us,” she says. “I think people know the wave is awesome, but it’s not until you get out there and get a wave that you truly understand how magical it is.” While it might be hard to believe, Waco Surf plans to continue expanding its offerings. “With almost 350 acres of inactivated land, we’ve got a few pretty dope things in the works and we’re in it for the long run,” she adds.

Do I look like a kook out there on the beginner wave? Probably, but I don’t care anymore because it’s just that fun, plus the staff and environment at Waco Surf make surfers of all levels feel welcomed, safe and (above all) stoked.

wacosurf.com

Backyard Chic

TUPELO GOODS IS MAKING A SPLASH WITH WATERPROOF, MULTI-USE FURNITURE

By Britni Rachal

ENTREPRENEUR SARA KENTON’S LIFELONG love for Van Morrison’s song “Tupelo Honey” is the inspiration behind the name of her new and growing Austin-based brand that’s all about durable, sleek and simple, long-lasting outdoor furniture. Pronounced just like the town in Mississippi, Tupelo Goods is a spin-off of drinkware company, YETI, with its entire product line designed by YETI’s original designer.

“Tupelo is always described in music as this idyllic place, and it’s also the tree pollen that makes the sweetest honey. There’s a lot of different elements to it,” says Kenton. “I just like the sound of it, and it’s fun to say. Van Morrison is always playing when I’m outside, so it’s perfect.”

Much of the Tupelo Goods’ products are based on creating outdoor

memories through games, accessories and comfortable seating. Formed in 2018, and only five years old, the brand is taking off with pieces of multi-use outdoor furniture that are displayed and used as far away as the new Ritz Carlton in Mausi. A major bonus? The furniture pieces are designed with silicone seats to easily go from water to land with so much functionality that you can easily move a chair into your backyard pool’s Baja shelf without damaging the pool or the furniture. A hatch on the bottom also allows the furniture to fill with water, weighing the chairs down into the surface.

Kenton has been part of Austin’s start-up circuit for years now. She first started as the 40th employee at HomeAway before the group entered an IPO in 2011 and later joined Expedia Group and rebranded as VRBO. She

Photos courtesy of Tupelo

later joined YETI to work in direct-to-consumer marketing, ironically once again as the 40th employee.

“Working at YETI was super exciting, and we learned a ton. At the time I had two little kids, and while we were creating all this great, high-quality product for the outdoors and these far-flung adventures, it occurred to me that there was an opportunity to apply the same approach of elevated design and unparalleled durability — but to a different category,” says Kenton, who also notes she used to have to replace her outdoor furniture once every five years.

Fast forward — and YETI’s founder, Roy Seiders, became their Angel investor. Then Tupelo Goods was formed based on Kenton and the original YETI product designer, Steve Nichol’s experience with rotational molding, which is also the material used to make traditional coolers.

“Steve, who is our head of product, designed almost every beautiful YETI product you’ve ever known, and he designed every chair we have today,” says Kenton. “He is super, super talented.”

Tupelo Goods started out with a waterproof, durable, lightweight tote bag made out of EVA foam, while Kenton worked with Nichols to develop outdoor furniture prototypes. With five bold color options, the vibrant tote bags are still a top seller today, offering parents a good beach bag that can be hosed down quickly at the end of any long, adventurous summer day.

Today Tupelo Goods focuses mainly on yard furniture with a total of four different styles of chairs currently on the market. The original chair is called The Loop Chair, a sleek and sophisticated lounge chair that dips inward and promises superior comfort, all from a timeless aesthetic.

“Our designer spent over a year studying ergonomic principles and the principle of the back,” says Kenton. “A lot of times you just assume a chair is going to be straight surface, but that barrel of the back is something he really obsessed over to make sure we achieve the right comfort level for humans of all sizes.”

The Loop Chair is considered a lower lounger, which makes it perfect for pool use. Since its launch, Tupelo Goods has introduced some more lounge postures that are more upright. The team plans to continue adding different levels of postures for different uses, along with stylistically different options.

“Most importantly, it’s comfortable. You can’t have a chair unless it’s comfortable because who cares about the durability if it’s not. What’s beautiful about polyethylene and rotationally molded furniture is that it’s hollow. When you sit in it, it gives a bit. It’s remarkably comfortable. People are absolutely

shocked when they sit in it just because of the comfort level.”

Durability is a strong focus. All chairs are produced in Wisconsin after material arrives from Italy through a lengthy prep process of tooling, where technicians basically carve the mold out of a piece of aluminum with an acrobatic arm so it’s super precise and then hand polished. By mixing various types of polyethylene together, designers were able to come up with neutral color options of sandstone and concrete, which are popular within the landscape design world where a lot of designers want more natural Earth tones and not everyone necessarily wants the white, modern furniture look.

“We spared no expense on materials. We are looking for the highest quality to make something that’s going to last a long time. Almost like an heirloom product,” says Kenton. “Our price points are high, but it’s something that stands the test of time.”

Another timeless area of the business is a passion for providing fun, outdoor space options and activities for families, and Kenton and her team are constantly looking for ways to elevate already existing products and activities. Tupelo Goods also sells cornhole games, a Zephyr Flyer swing and a device called Captain Safety — a sign that encourages people to slow down in neighborhoods.

“I would say that we like to think that we try to make the everyday aspirational in our homes and backyards,” says Kenton. “I’m personally very motivated by encouraging my kids (and us, too) to put their devices down. Just finding more opportunities to create spaces where we can lounge together and enjoy each other and really connect with the family.”

Tupelo Goods’ cornhole games and chairs can be found at local businesses, including Driftwood Golf Club. The items are also becoming popular everywhere from California to Florida to New York and in the Caribbean. For the future, Kenton and her team plan to add new categories but also go deeper with more products within their core chair lines of Loop Chair, Line Chair, Bask Chair and Desk Chair. For example, Line Chair already has a matching Line Ottoman, and Loop Chair has options for a matching Loop Table.

“On the marketplace, there’s nothing else like what we do. You literally can’t get it anywhere else. We’re really proud of the originality of our designs,” says Kenton.

Tupelo Goods currently has four full-time employees and eight part-time employees. Its 15,000 square-foot office space and warehouse are located in Dripping Springs.

tupelogoods.com

SUMMERTIME

and the Livin’s Easy

BY DARCIE DUTTWEILER

FLOAT (OR PADDLE, KAYAK, BIKE) ON THE WATER WITH THESE FUN ACTIVITIES

Let’s face it — it’s stiflingly, blisteringly, unendingly hot during the summer months in Central Texas.

While Austin is one of the best cities to live in, there’s no denying it gets downright uncomfortable in July and August. There’s really no way to survive other than finding yourself in a body of water. Sure, you can hit up your neighbor with a pool or head out to one of the capital city’s refreshing swimming holes — or you could have yourself a little adventure while cooling off.

From swanky boat rentals to aquatic exercise, these nine activities are some of the most fun ways to get wet this summer.

AUSTIN YACHT CLUB

Looking for a water vessel that’s more slow-paced? The Austin Yacht Club is the city’s premier sailing club that has an emphasis on sailboat racing, sailing education and sailing activities for the entire family. If you don’t have a sailboat and want to learn how to sail, there are several classes for both kids and adults. The club, which was founded in 1951, also hosts year-round sailboat races to keep the fun going beyond the summer months.

austinyachtclub.net

PHOTO BY BILL RECORDS

FLOATIES AUSTIN

Grab 10 of your closest friends (and your favorite beverages to BYO) to have a mini fiesta on the water. But this is no mere party boat — complete with a rustic bar top and classic barstools, Floaties is a 25-foot mini saloon that will have you feeling like you’re at an old Texas dive bar instead of floating underneath Pennybacker Bridge.  floatiesaustin.com

RETRO BOAT RENTALS ATX

Heyo, you cool cats and daddios. Go back in time while you cruise Lady Bird Lake by renting a vintage fiberglass boat that’s been restored to its original jet-age beauty, complete with mid-century retro cool colors, fins and chrome details. It’s the perfect way to impress a date or enjoy a gal’s brunch on the water. Don’t leave your vintage-style photo accessories at home. And just because the boats are retro doesn’t mean they don’t have some modern upgrades. Retro Boat Rentals ATX has retrofitted each boat with the latest in eco-friendly technology. retroboatsatx.com

ATXCURSIONS

All floating, no fuss. Grab a gaggle of friends and meet ATXcursions at a pick-up spot in South Austin for the easiest floating trip ever. Their team will pick y’all up and drive you to the river with plenty of tubes, ice chests and ice for maximum relaxation. For those coming from out of town, it’s the most convenient way to experience the cool Central Texas rivers.  atxcursions.com

ROWING DOCK

Paddleboards? Check. Canoes? Check. Kayaks? Check. Pedal kayaks? Check and check! The plethora of water vessels will have you coming back to the Rowing Dock again and again. The local, women-owned and operated business is a cherished resource for kayakers, SUP paddleboarders and canoers of all kinds. Open since 1999, the company is a hidden treasure for launching watercraft rentals of all kinds on Lady Bird Lake.  rowingdock.com

LAKE AUSTIN SPA RESORT

In addition to a gorgeous spa and resort-level amenities, Lake Austin Spa also offers the most lake activities of any Austin hotel. In what they deem “Ripple Effects,” guests can discover aquatic influences all around them, from floating water meditation and sundown paddle outings, to scenic boat cruises and even aquatic spa treatments. For those a little more active, there are adventurous experiences that include sculling, kayaking, paddle boarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, and even giant hydro-bike riding!  lakeaustin.com

FLOAT ON BOAT RENTALS

AUSTIN DUCK ADVENTURES

LAKE TRAVIS YACHT RENTALS

Forget about party barges or pontoon boats. Go all out on the lake by renting a luxury yacht. Of course, if you do want a fun barge complete with a slide, Lake Travis Yacht Rentals still has you covered. But why not treat yourself this summer? Their largest boat is the 40-foot Casino Royale, which holds up to 24 people and includes a private restroom and a rooftop deck, perfect for partying in style.

laketravisyachtrentals.com

Choose from two different launch locations — although we’re partial to the Loop 360 Boat Ramp since it means we can also do a stopover at Ski Shores Cafe – with Float on Boat Rentals, Austin’s highest-rated boat rental company. Even better: there are plenty of rental options, including tritoons or powertoons with a captain or public cruise alternatives. They also offer a wakesurfing package that will have you skimming the water like a pro in no time.  rentalboataustin.com

For that super classic ATXperience, it’s hard not to smile during an iconic Austin Duck Tour. The amphibious tour includes tours of downtown and Lake Austin in an unsinkable, U.S. Coast Guard-inspected Hydra Terra vehicle that traverses both land and sea. Oh yeah, and of course they provide noise makers that you can quack along with on your adventure.  austinducks.com

Egads!

GET SILLY INSIDE THE EUREKA ROOM

By Darcie Duttweiler

Photos by Weston Carls

MIKE STEFANIK, FOUNDER OF the Eureka Room, doesn’t really want to describe the Eureka Room.

“Well, it’s interesting because I don’t want people to know much about it. I do say that it’s absurd and participatory — mildly participatory and fun. And it’s supposed to be just a goofy thing for people who want a unique experience. And yeah, it’s got music. It’s got sound. It’s got lots and lots of lights, like, I don’t know, 20,000 LEDs and some other stuff. And it’s a mystery. The less you know, the better.”

Although the Eureka Room opened as a popup during the East Austin Studio Tour in 2018 in Stefanik’s house, the current iteration of the immersive experience has been housed in an East Cesar Chavez bungalow since last year — but Stefanik says he’s been noodling on the idea for at least a decade.

The creator behind the longtime and wildly popular Austin Events Wall Calendar says he likes to “make fun weird sh*t that connects people.” Along with the Eureka Room, that list includes previous interactive events like the Stationary 5K, Austin

Messy Homes Tour, absurdist dinner theaters, the world’s largest playable Cornhole Game, a promotional event called I Got a Bag of Wigs — Let’s Wear Them, Slackathlon, a Las Vegas adventure to fulfill a friend’s lifelong dream, an extremely complicated Seattle Puzzle Adventure and many, many more.

“I have a whole bunch of terrible ideas, and I just keep making terrible ideas until one seems like maybe they would be fun,” Stefanik laughs while trying to explain his background.

So, back to the Eureka Room.

While there is a page on the website that will spoil the experience for you, Stefanik says it’s best to go in with no preconceived notions, and the type of people who want the experience spoiled probably aren’t the type of people who might enjoy the Eureka Room.

Here’s what we can tell you: There’s an 8x10 foot room with videos, music and lights. There are props. There are games. And there’s other people, who you might have to high five. Escape room, this is not.

As for the thought process behind the Eureka Room, Stefanik says he wanted to create something that connected people, rather than participants having paralleled experiences in the same space, like most “immersive experiences.” He also shares that he loves weird roadside attractions, which partially inspired the space as well as “Austin’s influence on [him].” But most of all, he wanted something fun and a lot bit silly.

“I had this idea where people could just sort of play a game but also not really have too many rules,” Stefanik says. “Most of the rules don’t matter in the Eureka Room — it’s just a platform for people to have fun and get into a state of play. The activities are meant to connect people mildly through this playful absurdity experience. Strangers aren’t always dangers!”

You just gotta experience it for yourself.

In addition to Stefanik’s interactive (and, yes, absurd) events — including future ones he’s too tightlipped to divulge — he’s also created the IRL Experience Design Group, whose members include the University of Texas Immersive Program director, Alamo Drafthouse programming personnel, escape room creators, artists and more. The invite-only group for immersive artists acts as a community for members to share ideas and resources or just get moral support. Like Stefanik’s previous endeavors, it’s all about connection.

“I discovered I was working in a silo, and I knew there were people who felt the same and were doing similar things,” Stefanik says. “I think there’s a greater need for connection. You see these headlines about how, like, ‘one in five people don’t have any friends at all.’ People are much more disconnected from other people. There’s definitely a lot of people out there who want to have some social connection.”

eurekaroom.com

“THE ACTIVITIES ARE MEANT TO CONNECT PEOPLE MILDLY THROUGH THIS PLAYFUL ABSURDITY EXPERIENCE. STRANGERS AREN’T ALWAYS DANGERS!”

MIKE STEFANIK

GROUP PHOTO COURTESY OF THE EUREKA ROOM

WEEKEND AT BOERNE

The quintessential Texas Hill Country getaway

BY LIZ HARROUN

The William Hotel

170 S. Main St.

thewilliamboerne.com

The William Hotel is nestled on the second story of a building on the heart of Main Street, with its twelve luxurious rooms conveniently located above the delicious Cypress Grille (pro tip: you can have their freshly made pasta or wood-fired steak delivered to your room). Enjoy amazing views from the balcony or swing by The Oaks, the private hospitality room, for a complimentary beverage or snack.

The Dienger Trading Co.

210 N. Main St. thediengertradingco.com

Come for coffee, breakfast or lunch, but stay for the shopping. The Dienger Trading Co. is a bustling bakery, bistro and boutique, all located within a gorgeous historic cornerstone building with stunning antique double doors that open up to friendly staff that calmly cater to the crowds. Everything feels thoughtful and elegant, from the interior design to the curated items in the boutique, which includes clothes, accessories, kitchenware and toys.

J. Forks Hat Bar

470 S. Main St. Ste 101 jforksdesigns.com

A hat from J. Forks Hat Bar makes the perfect souvenir or gift to take home from your trip to Boerne. Hatter Hallie Forks Juliano is passionate about making unique hats catered to customers’ personal styles and preferences. She takes time to help you choose a hat that fits well before customizing it using accessories (like ribbons, strips of leather and chains), burning and initial branding to make it your own.

Boerne is full of kind folks, good food and breweries. Better yet? Most activities are walkable, located on the Hill Country Mile — the historic shopping and arts district. Circled by the meandering Cibolo Creek and adjacent walking paths, you can take a break from the food and shopping any time by easily stepping into a serene naturescape.

Free Roam Brewing Co.

325 S. Main St.

freeroambrewing.com

With live music throughout the day and into the night (they’re open until midnight, the latest of anywhere in town), Free Roam Brewing Co. is the spot to get a beer and mingle with locals. They brew delicious craft beers and have rotating local food trucks, including delicious Cajun food from The Alley Food Truck, in the vast outdoor space.

Hambys

437 S. Main St.

The latest addition to the Hill Country Mile, Hambys serves up smash burgers, milkshakes, hand-dipped corndogs and fried chicken. The nostalgic space is inspired by the original Hamby’s that occupied the space in the 1980s. It also has a brewpub and arcade games, adding to the old-school atmosphere. Best of all, they source their beef from local Windy Hill Farms, so you know you’re getting pasture-raised beef on your delicious smash burger.

HAMBYS & FREE ROAM BREWING CO.

PHOTOS BY LIZ HARROUN, ASSEMBLE COCKTAIL WORKSHOP PHOTO BY MELISSA ASHLEY

Bear Moon Bakery

401 S. Main St. bearmoonbakery.com

Bear Moon Bakery is owned by Paula Hayward, a trained chef who took over the shop from Patrick Heath, the then-mayor of Boerne, in 1995, and has been making pastries from scratch with the highest-quality ingredients ever since. They feature local and organic ingredients and compost all of their coffee and trimmings. Try the cheese pockets, cinnamon rolls and pigs in a blanket.

Assemble Cocktail Workshop

322 S. Main St. assemblecocktail.com

If you like a good cocktail and want to learn how to make one yourself, this interactive workshop with the lovely Lillian Oler of Assemble Cocktail Workshop is for you. There are various weekly events in the adorable, light-filled space, including Tiki in Texas Thursdays and Brunch Essentials (where you whip up brunch cocktails to sip on with locally made pastries on Saturday mornings). You can also book a private event, where drinks will be catered to your group’s preferences.

Boerne Taco House.

470 S. Main St. Ste 200 boernetacohouse.com

Carlos Gurrola, the owner of Boerne Taco House, is passionate about offering authentic Mexican food, doing his part to elevate the food options in Boerne. He sources high-quality ingredients that come to life in the tenderness of the beef and the freshness of the salsa (his mom’s recipe). Try the street tacos and enchiladas verdes (with a handcrafted Paloma to drink).

BEAR MOON BAKERY PHOTO BY SARAH RANDEL, BOERNE TACO HOUSE PHOTO BY LIZ HARROUN

Busy Bees

DEBUT OF NEW BEE CAVE FARMERS MARKET HAS RESIDENTS ‘BUZZING’ WITH EXCITEMENT

By Carolynn Solorio

Photos by Diana Davis

WHEN YOU THINK OF THE HILL COUNTRY, WHAT COMES to mind? The gorgeous views? The green, rolling hills? How about the smell of fresh dumplings, or organic lavender soap?

The debut of Bee Cave’s very own farmers market presents locals with exciting new additions to the hill country landscape, complete with fresh produce, artisan crafts and live musical performances.

Jennifer Kloss, the market’s owner and manager, is proud to present Bee Cave with a new staple event that focuses on bringing the community together, as well as harnessing their support for local farmers, vendors and entrepreneurs.

“I was tasked by the Hill Country Galleria to create a true farmers market,”

she explains. “You want to support your local farmers, and you definitely want fresh produce at a farmers market — that’s what it’s supposed to be.”

So that’s exactly what guests can expect. Starting June 4th, the market will occur each week from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where guests can enjoy a variety of items, ranging from fresh produce offered by local farmers to hot food and artisan crafts from featured vendors. This past month at the market’s debut, guests enjoyed everything from homegrown heirloom tomatoes from Farmer Dave’s to some of Chef Falco’s fiery hot salsa. And, while they ate, perhaps they adorned some handmade jewelry courtesy of Caesura, or signed up for a yoga lesson with Yogasix Bee Cave. Whatever you’re looking for, it can surely be found in the aisles of Bee Cave Farmers Market.

For Kloss, though, it’s important that the bulk of the product offered at this market come from farmers that surround the area, and guests can expect a majority of the stands to feature food vendors, with a select portion reserved for artisans and crafters.

“I have two big farms starting in June, and they have a large variety of produce,” Kloss excitedly reveals. “Everything from chicken to beef to honey and pies!” At Bee Cave Farmers Market, guests can expect a wide variety of fresh, local food that changes with the farmers’ seasonal crops. In fact, new farmers are expected to join the market’s roster in July once their crops are ready for purchase.

But it’s not just the food that’ll make you want to carve out all your future Sunday mornings. Each Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the market will feature live musical performances from local bands, another way Kloss is making sure to include the community in this new event. The Hens opened the market with a debut performance, and later this month Kloss is excited to feature Rent Party, Honeybee Jazz and The Boss Jaguars. Expected bands are listed on the website weeks ahead, so guests can plan accordingly.

“The music performers are pretty important to the event,” says Kloss. “We’ll

offer a wide range of genres — from jazz to surf music to rock to country.” With over 40 vendors and a large range of products to peruse, there’s plenty of time to dance your way through the market each week. In fact, once the school year starts, Kloss plans to feature local dance troops and other performance teams in addition to musical guests. Just another way Kloss is making sure to center this event on the patrons filling it.

“I want this market to be very community-based,” Kloss explains. And what makes this event most unique is her decision to include booths reserved for non-profits and local entrepreneurs every week, free of charge. “Any non-profit that’s local can apply to have a free booth any Sunday they want,” says Kloss. “That’s really dear to my heart.”

Additionally, Kloss explains that kids in the community who make items or have goods to sell can also reserve a booth for free. This has already generated a lot of interest in the community, and Kloss is excited to watch the program grow over time as the event does. So when you visit this market, not only will you be supporting local businesses — you might be helping one before it even begins!

This farmers market showcases the best of Bee Cave, and though the bulk of the vendors offer food products, there is truly something for everyone in the community.

beecavefarmersmarket.com

Each Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the market will feature live musical performances from local bands.

Permaculture in the City

COSMIC’S

SERVING UP BEVERAGES WITHIN BOTANICAL GARDENS

By Britni Rachal

WALK INTO THE SOUTH AUSTIN grounds of Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden and you’ll likely be immersed in natural beauty and tranquility. Over the last five years, the newer hospitality venue has had significant growth and transformation to its garden area — quite remarkable from just two years ago. Owner, Paul Oseivi, has a background in hospitality and a permaculture design certificate. In 2018, he decided to combine the two passions to create a drink venue for people to enjoy, that also doubles as a botanical garden.

What’s different about permaculture is that it is based off agricultural ecosystems that are intended to be sustainable and self-sufficient. In Cosmic’s case, that means using natural systems that incorporate the rainwater into an irrigation system and following an onsite composting system, rather than sending waste to a landfill.

“Really everything has a purpose, even though the gardens are beautiful to look at and it’s good ambiance and décor. It really does have a lot of functionality,” says Oveisi. “We grow a lot of the produce that we use in our drinks, or items the food trucks use in their menu items.”

An onsite chicken coop generates eggs that the staff and some coffee shop regulars take home. The chickens’ bedding is also part of the composting process. Overall, Oveisi says the goal is to leave the space better than they found it. With humble beginnings as a rundown mechanic shop filled with mosquitos and roaches, prior to Cosmic Coffee + Beer leasing the land, it’s safe to say that goal is being met.

Birds are chirping, and everything from owls to songbirds and woodpeckers — along with an array of butterflies, dragonflies, honeybees and other healthy colorful insects — now populate the area. The smell of dozens of countless blooms with a strong presence of jasmine fill the air, often surprising both first-time visitors or guests who haven’t been to Cosmic in a couple of years.

“We are all about transformation and escapism. You walk up and you don’t know what to expect,” says Oveisi. “I love seeing first-time visitors, because they are like, ‘Oh, look at the roses.’ They walk in and see the water features and are like, ‘Whoa, what is this place?’ A lot of that is intentional. A lot of that is discovery moments.”

Three mini waterfalls, a large waterfall and a pond now occupy the area. The waterfalls were easier to

Photos by Drew Elaine

construct because of the structure of the acre of land Cosmic sits on. According to Oveisi, Congress Avenue sits 10 feet above Cosmic’s lot because when crews built South Congress in the 1950s, they dug into the lot to use dirt from that location to build the streets. As a result, the entire area is sunken down, with a massive hillside between Cosmic and Congress. To hide the eroding hillside, waterfalls were built, using the existing gravity and elevation change.

Frogs, toads and lizards are attracted to the ponds, making the watery areas their home. Added tree landscaping also provides shaded areas. Due to composting, a natural bloom is also taking hold with plants resurfacing that were first planted years ago.

“We’ve created a biome in a very urban environment that helps kind of mitigate the negative impact that all businesses have on the environment,” says Oseivi. “Our goal is to not get preachy about it, though. We try to kind of have it almost as the background. It’s there if you want to deep dive into all of these systems and what they do. But we don’t want to alienate people by being so in your face about it. I like the opportunity to be something for everybody and not be so serious about it.”

An extensive drink menu is an extra draw to an already beautiful space. Non-alcoholic mocktails, boozy drinks and coffee dominate the menu with a focus on seasonality, based on natural herbs available from Cosmic’s garden.

Described as a Wendy’s frosty but with hints of coffee and alcohol, Frozen Boozy Coffee is one of the best-selling year-round menu items. A new non-alcoholic melon cooler, just in time for summer, Forever Crush features fresh cucumber and watermelon lime. Mexican mint marigold and lemon verbena are two herbs grown in the garden that will further complement the beverage.

Coffee is strategically sourced from Proud Mary Coffee USA, as Cosmic aimed to have a very specific flavor profile, with hints of chocolate, fudge, caramel and dates for their household blend, and the coffee partners nailed it.

Having fun is key, as is getting the staff fully on board with the concept. No matter what position they are ultimately hired for, each team member first does some time as groundskeeper to fully learn the ins and outs of the upkeep of the habitat.

“If you buy into it, great. You’ll fit right in here, and

most people do,” says Oveisi. “It was a challenge at first because it’s something that hasn’t been done. People would question, ‘Paul, is this a bar or is it a botanical garden or is it a nursery? What are you doing?’ It was a little rough at first, but we kind of stuck to our guns, and here we are. It’s been five-plus years.”

Linda Lehmusvirta, the producer of Central Texas Gardiner on KLRU-TV, is a fan of Cosmic’s unique concept. She’s featured hundreds of gardens and botanical areas and believes Cosmic’s concept is helping to enforce another concept of the “habitat highway” — a campaign designed to get people to look at their gardens and yards as fully connected across North America. Everything from plants on a balcony in Austin, to a full yard of beauty in Dallas, all the way to Iowa, and then Canada.

“A lot of people visit Cosmic and it’s their outdoor office. They can be sitting there on their computer next to a waterfall. They may not be consciously thinking about horticulture or land regeneration, but it’s still going to sink into their ambience soul,” says Lehumusvirta. “Then you get ideas with these container plants here and there and you say, ‘Oh, I can do that. I can create this little thing that’s got a butterfly in it.’” Lehmusvirta encourages anyone who is on the cusp

of trying gardening, to dive right in because we can all make a difference.

Even with its new and innovative environmental ways, there is a nod to “old Austin” in Cosmic’s brand. The name is inspired by what Oseivi, who is also a native Austinite, describes as a Cosmic Cowboy culture once prevalent in Central Texas.

“Live music was a big part of my life,” says Oseivi. “My wife, Suzanna Choffel, is a touring musician. My business partner used to manage artists. We’ve also spent a lot of time in West Texas. The skies out in Marfa or the McDonald observatory in Fort Davis are a big inspiration for us.”

Later this summer, a second Cosmic Coffee location will open on East 4th street, and plans are already in the works for a third location that will be near a lake, with more water-centric garden elements. Each location will focus on very different natural beauties and enhancements. Due to different structures, a vertical emphasis is being placed on the new east side location. The new building is two-story and has a rooftop, so it will feature vertical gardens. Unlike the original Cosmic + Beer Garden, both future locations will also have a full-service kitchen.

cosmichospitalitygroup.com

La Popular

AN ELEVATED, HIGH-QUALITY TAKE ON TRADITIONAL MEXICAN DISHES IN WEST AUSTIN

By Karen O. Spezia

IN THESE PARTS, MEXICAN RESTAURANTS ARE UBIQUITOUS. NOT THAT I’m complaining, but when a new one pops up, it barely registers. La Popular, however, is an exception. This exciting new addition to Austin’s crowded Mexican food scene stands out with its deliciously creative food, fantastic drinks and stylish ambiance.

La Popular isn’t your typical Austin Tex-Mex. In fact, it’s not Tex-Mex at all. The cuisine is decidedly Mexican, inspired from within the country’s borders. Originating in Mexico City over a decade ago, the restaurant recently expanded into the U.S. with its first location in Northern California and now with its new outpost in Austin. Next up: Las Vegas.

Obviously, it’s not some mom-and-pop operation. La Popular is part of Grupo Carolo, one of the most recognized restaurant groups in Mexico City, boasting almost 30 restaurants. For its U.S. ventures, Grupo Carolo partnered with Eureka! Restaurants, a similarly impressive California hospitality company. But don’t frown on its corporate pedigree; La Popular has its own local style and personality, including a gorgeous design by Austin-based Nolan + Bell Design Studio.

Executive Chef César de la Parra is a Mexico City native with a diverse and impressive resume. He began as a dishwasher while still a teenager, attended culinary school, then quickly rose through the ranks of some of Mexico City’s finest kitchens. He trained at a variety of Michelin-star and top-ranked restaurants around the globe, then returned to Mexico City a decade ago to join Grupo Carolo, where he oversees menu development for dozens of restaurants. For a talented young chef with such an accomplished background, de la Parra is surprisingly humble and accessible. His respect for his country’s cuisine is obvious each time he passionately describes a dish and its inspiration and history.

Photos by Holly Cowart

His menu at La Popular features elevated classic taqueria fare using high-quality ingredients, adventurous flavors, and innovative preparations. Every table is welcomed with a complimentary basket of rustic homemade tortilla chips and a colorful sampler of four salsas, ranging from mild to hot. They’re all unique and yummy, but the Toreado sauce was so good that I brought a bottle home.

The guacamole takes it up a notch with the addition of blended tomatillos, giving it a verdant green color and a fresh, bright flavor. A dollop of grilled onions and jalapenos adds a smoky savoriness. The tuna tostadas are glorious: crispy corn tortillas layered with chipotle aioli, silky ahi tuna, avocado, soy vinaigrette and crunchy fried leeks. And the refreshing aguachile is loaded with citrusy prawns marinated in lime juice and garnished with cilantro, peppers, onions, cucumbers, avocado and sea salt.

There are lots of fabulous tacos, including a tender ribeye taco and a coastal-inspired Baja fish taco. But it’s the al pastor and carnitas tacos that really blew me away. The al pastor is spot-on: spit-roasted pork, slivers of fresh pineapple, raw onions, cilantro and green lorenza sauce. I recommend ordering it ‘El Gringo’ style on a flour tortilla and ‘Costra Style’ with the addition of grilled cheese. It’s one of the best I’ve ever had. The carnitas taco is equally delicious: pork confit tucked into a housemade corn tortilla with pickled red onion and guacamole. It’s simple but sublime.

There are also larger entrée plates, such as beef ribeye fajitas or chicken enchiladas smothered in smoky mole or a creamy green Blancas sauce. The barbecued ribs are a standout: a slow-roasted half-rack slathered in a sweet-hot habanero sauce and served with creamy, cheesy esquites corn spiked with truffles. It’s a decadent, lip-smacking combo. If you have room for dessert, there are adorable mini churros served in a castiron ramekin with two dipping sauces or a towering Instaworthy tres leches cake crowned with a dome of ice cream and covered in caramelized meringue.

The drinks share the stage at La Popular and sometimes steal the spotlight. The Oaxacan Jellyfish is a showstopper, presented in an outrageous nautical glass and topped with a billowing smoke bubble. Like a Pina Colada with a punch, it’s a tropical mix of Dakabend Oaxacan rum, pineapple, lime, blue lemongrass and coconut cream. The bar also boasts an impressive selection of over

80 labels of tequila and mescal, plus rare Mexican spirits and emerging artisan products from small-batch distilleries in Oaxaca, Jalisco and Guadalajara.

I arrived at La Popular with few expectations but was quickly seduced by its exciting flavors and chic Mexico City vibe. Here in the land of Tex-Mex, it’s a welcome change to experience a little more Mex and a little less Tex. La Popular reflects the genuine culture of Mexico, making it a fantastic new addition to Austin’s dining scene. And there’s always room for that.

lapopularcdmx.com/locations/austin

1417 FRENCH BISTRO

1417 South 1st Street | (512)-551-2430

1417frenchbistro.com

Neighborly chic greets you and offers a French bistro comfort menu from steak frites to moody blue cheese beignets. A full bar serves up signature cocktails from a refreshing cucumber gimlet to a blood orange French Margarita with black volcanic salt. Don’t miss their gorgeous patio for al fresco dining at its best!

24 DINER

600 N. Lamar Blvd. | (512) 472 5400

Chef Andrew Curren’s casual eatery promises delicious plates 24/7 and a menu featuring nostalgic diner favorites. Order up the classics, including roasted chicken, burgers, all-day breakfast and decadent milkshakes.

34TH STREET CAFE

1005 W. 34th St. | (512) 371 3400

This neighborhood spot in North Campus serves up soups, salads, pizzas and pastas — but don’t miss the chicken piccata. The low-key setting makes it great for weeknight dinners and weekend indulgences.

ARLO GREY

111 E Cesar Chavez St. | (512) 478 2991

Arlo Grey is the debut restaurant from “Top Chef” 10 winner and “Fast Foodies’’ star Kristen Kish. Found inside the LINE Hotel, the picturesque lakeside spot has received praise for its intentional design and elegant, French-and-Italian-inflected take on Texas ingredients.

ASTI TRATTORIA

408 E. 43rd St. | (512) 451 1218

This chic little Hyde Park trattoria offers essential Italian dishes along with a variety of wines to pair them with. Finish off your meal with the honey-andgoat-cheese panna cotta.

BARLEY SWINE

6555 Burnet Rd., Ste. 400 | (512) 394 8150 James Beard Award–nominated chef Bryce Gilmore encourages sharing with small plates made from locally sourced ingredients, served at communal tables. Try the parsley croissants with bone marrow or Gilmore’s unique take on fried chicken.

BLUE DAHLIA BISTRO

3663 Bee Cave Rd. | (512) 306 1668

A cozy French bistro serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual setting. Pop in for the happy hour to share a bottle of your favorite wine and a charcuterie board.

BUFALINA & BUFALINA DUE

6555 Burnet Rd. | (512) 215 8662

This intimate restaurant serves up mouth-watering pizzas, consistently baked with crispy edges and soft centers. The famous Neapolitan technique is executed by the Stefano Ferrara wood-burning ovens, which runs at more than 900 degrees. Lactose-intolerants beware, there is no shortage of cheese on this menu!

CAFÉ NO SÉ

1603 S. Congress Ave. | (512) 942 2061

South Congress Hotel’s Café No Sé balances rustic décor and a range of seasonal foods to make it the best place for weekend brunching. The restaurant’s spin on the classic avocado toast is a must-try.

CARVE AMERICAN GRILLE

7415 Southwest Pkwy. | (512) 792 4450

Whether it’s a date night dinner, a casual Friday lunch, or weekend family brunch, visit this amazingly modern-rustic dining room complete with a vibrant bar and patio with hill country views. Everything about CARVE is inspired by fresh and eclectic ingredients, with every dish reinventing the American grille experience.

CHAPULÍN CANTINA

1610 South Congress Ave. | (512)) 441-7672

chapulincantina.com

Chapulín Cantina is an Oaxacan inspired restaurant from long-time restaurateurs Chefs Ryan Samson and Daniel Brooks (Vespaio, Enoteca, Licha’s). This lively neighborhood restaurant and bar offers fresh seafood, tylayudas, from scratch moles, house made nixtamal tortillas, aguas frescas, and an expansive selection of mezcal and other agave distilled spirits. Open for lunch and dinner every day at 11am (closed Mondays). Don’t miss the $8 Happy Hour menu

Tuesday-Friday 3-6pm. Order takeout online.

ELDORADO CAFE

3300 W. Anderson Ln. | (512) 420 2222 eldoradocafeatx.com

Eldorado Cafe exemplifies old school Austin, resonating the beat of the early 90’s, sending out hot plates of the most decadently delicious and sometimes healthy eating you will find in Austin. Mexican style comfort food with a deep honor towards the historical eateries that have made Austin great. Come see us.

GRÀCIA

4800 Burnet Road Suite 450 (512) 649-4844

graciamediterranean.com

Gràcia, Catalan for “grace” is a Mediterranean inspired restaurant and wine bar in the midtown Austin neighborhood of Rosedale. The menu is seafood forward and draws on flavors throughout the Mediterranean including Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Morocco, and more. The wine list features selections from family-run estates around the Mediterranean, and the curated cocktail list incorporates boutique spirits - perfect for pairing with Gràcia’s sharable plates. Open every day at 5pm. Happy Hour MondayFriday 5-6pm.

GUSTO ITALIAN KITCHEN + WINE BAR

4800 Burnet Rd. | (512) 458 1100 gustoitaliankitchen.com

Nestled in the Rosedale neighborhood of northcentral Austin, Gusto captures the warm, comforting, every-day flavors of Italian cuisine. Dishes range from housemade antipasti to hand-formed pizzas, salads, panini, fresh pasta, entrees featuring Texas farmraised meats and scratch desserts. Craft cocktails, beer on tap and boutique wines. Open for lunch, happy hour and dinner.

HONEY MOON SPIRIT LOUNGE

624 W. 34th St. | (737) 209 0319

Vintage-chic hot spot with ample outdoor seating turning out imaginative cocktails and global mains.

HOPFIELDS

3110 Guadalupe St. | (512) 537 0467

A gastropub with French inclinations, offering a beautiful patio and unique cocktails. The beer, wine and cocktail options are plentiful and the perfect pairing for the restaurant’s famed steak frites and moules frites.

JEFFREY’S

1204 W. Lynn St. | (512) 477 5584

Named one of Bon Appétit’s “10 Best New Restaurants in America,” this historic Clarksville favorite has maintained the execution, top-notch service, and luxurious but welcoming atmosphere that makes it an Austin staple.

JOANN’S FINE FOODS

1224 S. Congress Ave. | (512) 358 6054

A South Congress neighborhood spot, a new take on the American diner, and a vacation for locals and tourists alike. Open early and late at the Austin Motel, Joann’s is a welcome respite for early birds and night owls, outlaws and in-laws, all ways always.

JOSEPHINE HOUSE

1601 Waterston Ave. | (512) 477 5584

Rustic Continental fare with an emphasis on fresh, local and organic ingredients. Like its sister restaurant, Jeffrey’s, Josephine House is another one of Bon Appétit’s “10 Best New Restaurants in America.” Find a shady spot on the patio and indulge in fresh baked pastries and a coffee.

THE WAYBACK

9601 Bee Cave Road Austin Texas 78733 | (512) 520 9590 waybackaustin.com

The Wayback mingles with nature, inviting travelers to do the same. The cafè serves the freshest ingredients on a seasonal menu that balances southern staples with newfound favorites, and the patio and outdoor lawns are perfect for dining alfresco.

AUSTIN’S LEADING LOCALLY-OWNED ARTS AND CULTURE MAGAZINE.

DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR, EVERY MONTH.

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION ONLY $36

Curb Appeal

JUST SOLD

MIKE MOGAVERO THE AGENCY REAL ESTATE

512.580.6580

MIKE.M@THEAGENCYRE.COM WWW.MMOGAVERO.COM

JUST SOLD: 5500 LACEBACK TERRACE, AUSTIN, TX 78738 11,000 SQ. FT. $8,900,000.

A rare Spanish Oaks estate featuring every imaginable amenity, including a 1,500 wine bottle showcase, an 8 seat movie theater, negative edge pool, golf simulator, 4 car garage and jaw dropping Hill Country views.

NEW CONSTRUCTION: 3411 BRIDLE PATH, AUSTIN, TX 78703

6 BEDROOMS/5.5 BATHROOMS, 4,767 SQ. FT. PRICE UPON REQUEST.

Coming to Tarrytown, this modern and luxurious home is blocks from Lake Austin and sits nimbly between beautiful, large oak trees providing shade and privacy. A sprawling pool stretches across the backyard.

Mike’s process connects the artful marriage of presentation, staging, thorough and specific marketing, and a precision approach to showing and selling fine homes and estates. His style balances presentation, talented negotiation, and a successful close. These trademarks, along with a lot of hustle, have enabled Mike to build a strong global portfolio of high-net-worth clientele and to be a trusted luxury real estate advisor. Mike does not view selling and buying homes as a business, but as a passion, and he serves his clients best by the extra attention he provides to each listing and the extra value he obtains for them.

4203 BALCONES DRIVE, AUSTIN, TX 78731

5 BEDROOM, 6 FULL BATHS, 2 HALF BATHS, 6305SQFT, $8.1M

This gated estate on over half an acre offers a serene and private setting with natural surroundings in a stellar location in coveted Balcones, Park. Refined luxury with modern and elegant design, this gorgeous home is an entertainers dream with the easy flow of a well thought out living space. The first home to install a Tesla roof in Austin, the property offers an eco friendly and sustainable option to run your home while reducing your carbon footprint. More green features, include a reverse osmosis water system and UV light filtration. Just minutes to downtown Austin and zoned to both exemplary public and private schools nearby. Don’t miss this opportunity to live your life story in the heart of Balcones today!

Additional information on www.balconesluxury.com

Curb

Appeal

Live in your own personal boutique hotel!

This home is a collaboration between the current owner and Jay Corder Architects- and was designed with luxury indoor and outdoor living spaces and City of Austin view maximization in mind.

The result is an iconic modern masterpiece situated just off Mt. Bonnell, in an unparalleled convenient location between Austin’s two downtowns.

The residence exudes sleek luxurious living and provides an opportunity for effortless entertaining. The main level kitchen, family room and large private dining area feature a steel two sided fireplace for all rooms to enjoy, along with floor to ceiling glass door openings for patio access to treetop and city views.

The upper floor is dedicated exclusively to the owners, with a luxurious primary bedroom with fireplace, and bathroom with floor to ceiling windows, a vanity skylight, and a jaw-dropping downtown view. Attached to the primary bedroom is a covered outdoor living area to enjoy the breeze and the spectacular view of downtown Austin and the UT Campus.

The home has a dedicated indoor and covered outdoor living space adjacent to the pool, with a wall of seamless glass that brings nature inside. There are custom well designed and attractive built ins throughout the home for storage to enhance your living experience.

4607 LAUREL CANYON DRIVE, AUSTIN, TX 78731

3 BEDS, 3 1/2 BATHS, 3,920 SQ. FT., $4,900,000

Curb Appeal

CLAYTON BULLOCK MORELAND PROPERTIES

CLAYTONBULLOCK.COM

512.797.6446

CLAYTON@MORELAND.COM

This house is famous for all of the RIGHT reasons. Renowned architect Heather McKinney created this award-winning, environmentally-conscious “treehouse castle” surrounded by a grove of mature trees. Foliage and nature-inspired landscaping offers so much privacy that you’d never know you’re perfectly centered in the most walkable zone of West Austin. The city’s newest H-E-B grocery/BBQ/bar is a five minute drive; downtown less than ten. The modern design pairs architectural distinction with comfort. This is the first time, and probably last time, that this home will be available for a generation.

2806 ROBBS RUN, AUSTIN, TX 78703

5 BED, 4.5 BATH, $3,900,000

A COLLECTION OF MOORE-TATE HOMES NOW AVAILABLE

4612 GILLIS ST, AUSTIN, TX 78745: 4 BED, 3.5 BATH, $2,125,000

121 EL PASO ST, AUSTIN, TX 78704: 4 BED, 3F + 2H BATH, $2,450,000

4803 ENCHANTED LN, AUSTIN, TX 78745: 3 BED, 3 BATH, $1,195,000

Woman-owned and led since 2011, Moore-Tate has designed and built 130 new move-in ready homes in loveable South Austin neighborhoods.

4612 Gillis Street features their best 1-story floor plan ever in Park Forest with a guest house, pool, and 2-car garage.

121 El Paso Street is perfectly perched on one of the highest points in Dawson offering privacy and views.

4803 Enchanted Lane is a nostalgic trip back to the Moore-Tate roots featuring a generous lot size and clever design. Coming Soon in Bouldin, 311 W. Monroe St, Austin, TX 78704. The corner lot home has 4 beds, 4 baths, and sits just two blocks from South Congress.

Austin Honors It’s Favorite Unofficial Mascot at Bat Fest

THE TIME-HONORED EVENT RETURNS ON AUGUST 27 WITH A FULL DAY FOOD, MUSIC AND FUN

By Holly Cow a rt

IT HAS BEEN SWELTERING IN AUSTIN, MAKING ENJOYING THE CITY’S natural wonders occasionally near-impossible. However, two good things that have come from this toasty time of year are the return of daylight savings and the city’s remarkable bat population. Now through October, you can cozy up along the shore as 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats — the largest urban colony in the world — make their nightly descent from underneath Congress Bridge, creating captivating, amorphous trails across the downtown skyline.

Summertime also marks the arrival of an Austin classic: Bat Fest. Produced by Roadway Productions, it all began in 2004 when owner French Smith launched the first-ever gathering to pay tribute to Austin’s unofficial mascot.

Now in its 17th year, the festival is back on August 26 to once again celebrate the beloved bats, charming nature and community-focused culture that has always remained a constant in our city. Visitors can expect a full day of food, family-friendly activities, two stages of live music, craft vendors, conservation

education and more. There’s also a costume contest with $100 rewards for the best and battiest adult and children costumes. Then, it’s time for the main show.

Although timing varies, the bats’ flight usually starts from 7-9 p.m., and can last around a half hour long. But the party’s not over once they’re gone. Bat Fest rages on until midnight, with final performers hitting the stage as late as 10:45 p.m. In the past, the event has offered an impressive lineup of national and local musicians, and this time is no different. Currently, the mix will feature Chris Lanes, Mike Jones and George Birge, with more to be announced.

There’s also a handful of ticket options available, including early bird discounts and a VIP ticket that offers front row concert access, a t-shirt voucher, reserved parking, a private bar with two complimentary drinks, private restrooms and more.

For more information, follow @batfestatx and visit batfest.com.

SEASON

MAINSTAGE SERIES

HERSHEY FELDER AS GEORGE GERSHWIN ALONE

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER, 2023

THE THIN PLACE

OCTOBER–DECEMBER, 2023

NATASHA, PIERRE & THE GREAT COMET OF 1812

JANUARY, 2023–MARCH, 2024

THE PROM

APRIL–MAY, 2024

THE LEHMAN TRILOGY

JUNE–JULY, 2024

BEAUTIFUL THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

JULY–SEPTEMBER, 2024

FAMILY SERIES

THE GIRL WHO BECAME LEGEND

SEPTEMBER–NOVEMBER, 2023

HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN’S THE LITTLE MERMAID

JANUARY–MARCH, 2024

A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD

FEBRUARY–MAY, 2024

HOLIDAY EXTRAS

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

NOVEMBER–DECEMBER, 2023

UNA NOCHE BUENA

DECEMBER, 2023

POP!

DECEMBER 2023

The Sound of Music.

Photo: Suzanne Cordiero

CALENDARS

MUSIC

CURTIS ROUSH RESIDENCY

Through July 26

Far Out Lounge & Stage

ANTONE’S ANNIVERSARY CONCERTS

Through July 28

Antone’s Nightclub

THE DROP-IN SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Through August 10 Long Center

4TH OF JULY W/ BOB SCHNEIDER

July 4

Haute Spot

BLINK-182

July 7

Moody Center

LOUIS TOMLINSON

July 7

Moody Amphitheater

PARAMORE

July 9

Moody Center

TANYA TUCKER ACL TV TAPING

July 10

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

DON TOLIVER

July 11

Moody Amphitheater

SHINYRIBS SHOW & SIGNING

July 11

Waterloo Records

PESO PLUMA

July 12

Germania Insurance Amphitheater

DARDEN SMITH: WHO SAID YOU COULD DO THAT?

July 13

Paramount Theatre

BROWNOUT SHOW & SIGNING

July 14

Waterloo Records

TEARS FOR FEARS

July 14

Moody Center

BEN KWELLER & ROBERT ELLIS

July 15

Scoot Inn

JOSH ABBOTT BAND

July 15

Whitewater Amphitheater

SAMANTHA FISH & JESSE DAYTON

July 15

Mohawk

JACKSON BROWNE

July 18

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

BLUES ON THE GREEN

July 18 & 19

Zilker Park

THIRD THURSDAYS: ZACH PERSON

July 20

Bullock Texas State History Museum

BOZ SCAGGS

July 20

Paramount Theatre

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS

July 20 – 23

Red River Cultural District

SANTA FE KLAN

July 21

Moody Center

SLIGHTLY STOOPID & SUBLIME W/ ROME

July 22

Germania Insurance Amphitheater

ALICIA KEYS

July 24

Moody Center

KEB’ MO’

July 26

Paramount Theatre

YELLOWCARD

July 26

Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater

STEVE MILLER BAND

July 27

Germania Insurance Amphitheater

MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD

July 27

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

JINKX MONSOON

July 27

Paramount Theatre

LIL BABY

July 28

Moody Center

YOUNG THE GIANT W/ MILKY CHANCE

July 28

Germania Insurance Amphitheater

RYAN BINGHAM W/ THE TEXAS GENTLEMEN & JAMESTOWN REVIVAL

July 28 & 29

Whitewater Amphitheater

JIDENNA

July 29

Emo’s Austin

ERIC CHURCH

July 29

Germania Insurance Amphitheater

KIRKO BANGZ

July 29

Empire Control Room

JORGE DREXLER ACL

TV TAPING

July 31

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

LAUREN SPENCER

July 31

Emo’s Austin

NIKI

August 1

Moody Amphitheater

JESSE & JOY

August 2

Emo’s Austin

CLINT BLACK

August 4

Round Rock Amp

KENNY LOGGINS

August 5

Moody Amphitheater

THOMAS RHETT

August 5

Moody Center

MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA & JIMMY EAT WORLD

August 8

Moody Amphitheater

THE OFFSPRING W/ SIMPLE PLAN & SUM41

August 11

Germania Insurance Amphitheater

JOAN JETT & THE BLACKHEARTS

August 11

Round Rock Amp

JAI WOLF

August 11

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

BOY GEORGE & CULTURE CLUB

August 12

Germania Insurance Amphitheater

THEE PHANTOM & THE ILLHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

August 12

Long Center

DAVID RAMIREZ

August 12

Far Out Lounge & Stage

FOREIGNER

August 14

Moody Center

STEVIE NICKS

August 15

Moody Center

JVKE

August 15

Emo’s Austin

THIRD THURSDAYS: MÉLAT

August 17

Bullock Texas State History Museum

SNOOP DOGG

August 18

Germania Insurance

Amphitheater

GRUPO FRONTERA

August 18

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

RECKLESS KELLY

August 18

Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater

CHARLIE ROBISON & FRIENDS

August 19

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

PANTERA

August 20

Germania Insurance

Amphitheater

BECK & PHOENIX

August 22

Moody Center

LIL DURK

August 23

Moody Center

ICE NINE KILLS

August 23

Stubb’s Waller Creek

Amphitheater

CHARLEY CROCKETT

August 25

Whitewater Amphitheater

JPEGMAFIA & DANNY BROWN

August 25

Stubb’s Waller Creek

Amphitheater

LUIS R. CONRIQUEZ

August 27

H-E-B Center at Cedar Park

JOHN WAITE

August 27

Paramount Theatre

KIDZ BOP

August 27

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

LIONEL RICHIE & EARTH, WIND & FIRE

August 29

Moody Center

WALKER LUKENS

ALBUM RELEASE PARTY

August 29

The LINE Hotel Pool

GODSMACK & STAIND

August 31

Germania Insurance Amphitheater

CARIN LEÓN

August 31

Moody Center

BAD OMENS

September 2

Stubb’s Waller Creek

Amphitheater

JONAS BROTHERS

September 3

Moody Cente

The 04 CenterFILM

SUMMER CLASSIC FILM SERIES

Through September 2

Paramount Theatre

ALAMO FAMILY SUMMER VACATION

July 3 – September 1

Alamo Drafthouse Locations

FRIDAY FLICKS: BEST IN SHOW

July 14

Moody Amphitheater

PUMPING IRON II: THE WOMEN

July 15 – 17

AFS Cinema

FREE DIVE-IN MOVIES

July 22 & August 26

Hotel Viata

DOGLEG

July 23

AFS Cinema

PINK SCREEN SUMMER MOVIES SERIES

Through July 27

Moxy Austin - University

GREEN SCREEN FILM SERIES

July 27 & August 31

The Contemporary AustinLaguna Gloria

AWAAZ – A LIFE IN SILENCE

July 30

AFS Cinema

EVERYTHING IS TERRIBLE! KIDZ KLUB

TOUR LIVE

July 31

AFS Cinema

FLEISCHER STUDIOS LEGACY

August 4 & 5

AFS Cinema

SCREEN ON THE GREEN: TOY STORY

August 5

Fareground

DAZED AND CONFUSED 30TH ANNIVERSARY!

August 7

Paramount Theatre

FRIDAY FLICKS: DC LEAGUE OF SUPER-PETS

August 18

Moody Amphitheater

GHOST FILES LIVE!

August 20

Paramount Theatre

SCREEN ON THE GREEN: MARY POPPINS (1964)

September 2

Fareground Austin THEATER

RADIO:30 BY CHRIS EARLE

Through July 15

Hyde Park Theatre

THE ART OF MARTYRDOM (A COMEDY)

Through July 15 The VORTEX

ROALD DAHL’S

MATILDA THE MUSICAL

July 7 – August 12

Zilker Hillside Theater

SUMMER STOCK

AUSTIN: THE WIZARD OF OZ

July 22 – August 6

McCullough Theatre

SUMMER STOCK

AUSTIN: GREASE

July 22 – August 6

McCullough Theatre

GUELAGUETZA

AUSTIN 2023

July 29

Long Center

HEAD OVER HEELS

August 9 – September 10

ZACH Theatre

JENNA & THE WHALE

August 11 – 26

Ground Floor Theatre

JURASSIC WORLD

August 18 – 20

Moody Center COMEDY

2023 FUNNIEST PERSON IN AUSTIN

Through August 12

Cap City Comedy Club

GARY OWEN

July 6 – 9

Cap City Comedy Club

DAVE CHAPPELLE

July 14

Moody Center

KATHERINE BLANFORD

July 14

The Creek & the Cave

TREVOR WALLACE

July 14 & 15

Paramount Theatre

JIM NORTON

July 14 & 15

Comedy Mothership

BRUCE BRUCE

July 21 – 23

Cap City Comedy Club

JASON NASH

July 22

Cap City Comedy Club

EDDIE B

July 22

ACL Live at the Moody Theater

NICK SWARDSON

July 27 – 30

Comedy Mothership

CALENDARS

BE SURE TO CHECK WEBSITES FOR UPDATED INFORMATION & SAFETY PROTOCOLS

Entertainment

Arts

CAMP LUCY WELLNESS RETREAT

July 20 – 23

Camp Lucy

CLASSIC GAME FEST

July 22 & 23

Palmer Events Center

BALLROOM BLOCK PARTY

July 29

The Ballroom at Spiderhouse

ERIC D’ALESSANDRO

July 29

Vulcan Gas Company

DUSTY SLAY

August 5

Paramount Theatre

JUNO BIRCH

August 12

Paramount Theatre

JOHN OLIVER

August 20

Bass Concert Hall

PLEASE DON’T DESTROY

August 25

Paramount Theatre

TIGERBELLY W/ BOBBY LEE

August 26

ACL Live at the Moody Theater OTHER

JURASSIC QUEST

July 7 – 10

Palmer Events Center

NAT GEO LIVE SPEAKER SERIES

July 8 & August 4

Long Center

BOB BULLOCK BIRTHDAY BASH

July 9

Bullock Texas State History Museum

ATX JULY OPEN HOUSE

July 11

Loot Rentals

GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION

July 13

MUTTS Canine Cantina

TEXAS PLAYBOYS

ALL-STAR GAME

July 15

The Long Time

CARS & COFFEE AUSTIN

July 16 & August 13

Circuit of the Americas

SUMMER SPLASH BASH

July 16 & August 20

Hotel Van Zandt

BEER DINNER SERIES

July 18 & August 22

The Driskill

NORMAL GOSSIP: LIVE

July 19

Paramount Theatre

MASTER CLASS SERIES: CLASSIC COCKTAILS

July 30

The Roosevelt Room

CEDAR PARK RODEO 2023

August 11 & 12

H-E-B Center at Cedar Park

AUSTIN PRIDE PARADE & FESTIVAL

August 12

Fiesta Gardens

POP CATS 2023

August 12 & 13

Palmer Events Center

AUSTIN FIT FEST

August 19

Palmer Events Center

PBR: TEAMS SERIES

August 25 – 27

Moody Center

BAT FEST

August 26

Congress Avenue Bridge

FREE DAY OF YOGA

September 4

Multiple Locations

SCOTT GRIFFIN & RITA KOOS

Through July 15

Yard Dog Art Gallery

ATX: EDITIONS

Through July 16

West Chelsea

Contemporary

DRAWING THE MOTION PICTURE: PRODUCTION ART & STORYBOARDS

Through July 16

Harry Ransom Center

CONNECTING EVERYTHING THROUGH COLOR

Through July 22

Julia C. Butridge Gallery

DAY JOBS

Through July 23

Blanton Museum of Art

SARAH BORK: GIRLS GOTTA EAT

Through July 23

Central Library Gallery

SMALL BLACK MUSEUM RESIDENCY PROJECT VOL. II

Through July 29

George Washington Carver Museum

CHARLES

HEPPNER: INTROSPECTIVE: AT ONE WITH THE BEAUTY OF NATURE

Through July 29

Davis Gallery

ALEJANDRA ALMUELLE: DE TIERRA

Through July 30

Elisabet Ney Museum

SUMMER EXHIBITION

Through August 11

Art for the People

AUBREE DALE: GO-TO’S

Through August 12

Central Library Gallery

EMPIRE’S ECHO

Through August 12

Old Bakery & Emporium

SIGNS & SYMBOLS: THE TREES ARE TALKING

Through August 13

Neill-Cochran House Museum

EAMON ORE-GIRON: COMPETING WITH LIGHTNING

Through August 20

The Contemporary Austin

HOST: CELESTE

Through August 20

The Contemporary Austin

EXPRESIONES DE MÉXICO, ARTE DE LA GENTE

Through August 20

Mexic-Arte Museum

STORIES TO TELL

Through August 20

Harry Ransom Center

DAVID DEMING: BORROW-ABRONZE

Through August 25

UMLAUF Sculpture

Garden & Museum

OUT OF LA ROMITA

Through August 26

Flatbed Center for Contemporary Printmaking

SUMMER EXPOSURE

Through August 26

Link & Pin Gallery

SEEING THE INVISIBLE

Through September 10

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

JOYCE HOWELL: SOLO SHOW

July 8 – 29

Wally Workman Gallery

DAN JIAN

July 15 – September 7

Women & Their Work

SUMMERTIME STUDIO VISITS

July 22 & August 12

Big Medium

YULIYA LANINA: MOTHER/LAND

August 24 – November 2 Central Library Gallery

TEXAS WOODWORKING FESTIVAL

August 25 – 27

Palmer Events Center

FORCES OF NATURE: ANCIENT MAYA ART FROM LOS ANGELES COUNTY

MUSEUM OF ART

August 27 – January 7

Blanton Museum of Art

Art SPACES

MUSEUMS

BLANTON MUSEUM OF ART

200 E. MLK Jr. Blvd. (512) 471 5482

Hours: Tu–F 10–5, Sa 11–5, Su 1–5 blantonmuseum.org

THE BULLOCK TEXAS STATE HISTORY MUSEUM

1800 Congress Ave. ( 512) 936 8746

Hours: Tu-Su 10–5 thestoryoftexas.com

THE CONTEMPORARY AUSTIN–JONES CENTER

700 Congress Ave. ( 512) 453 5312

Hours: W 12–11, Th–Sa 12–9, Su 12–5 thecontemporaryaustin.org

THE CONTEMPORARY AUSTIN–LAGUNA GLORIA

3809 W. 35 th St. ( 512) 458 8191

Driscoll Villa hours:

Tu–W 12– 4, Th–Su 10– 4

Grounds hours:

M–Sa 9–5, Su 10–5 thecontemporaryaustin.org

ELISABET NEY MUSEUM

304 E. 44 th St. (512) 974 1625

Hours: W–Su 12–5 austintexas.gov/department/ elisabet-ney-museum

FRENCH LEGATION MUSEUM

802 San Marcos St. (512) 463 7948

Hours: Tu–Su 1–5 frenchlegationmuseum.org

GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER MUSEUM

1165 Angelina St.

( 512) 974 4926

Hours: M–W 10–6, Th 10–9, F 10–6, Sa 10–4 ci.austin.tx.us/carver

HARRY RANSOM

CENTER

300 W. 21st St.

( 512) 471 8944

Hours: Tu–W 10–5, Th 10–7, F 10–5, Sa–Su 12–5 hrc.utexas.edu

LBJ LIBRARY AND MUSEUM

2313 Red River St.

( 512) 721 0200

Hours: M–Su 9–5 lbjlibrary.org

MEXIC–ARTE MUSEUM

419 Congress Ave. ( 512) 480 9373

Hours: M–Th 10– 6, F–Sat 10–5, Su 12–5 mexic–artemuseum.org

O. HENRY MUSEUM

409 E. 5th St. (512) 974 1398

Hours: W–Su 12–5

THINKERY AUSTIN

1830 Simond Ave.

(512) 469 6200

Hours: Tu–F 10–5, Sa–Su 10– 6 thinkeryaustin.org

UMLAUF SCULPTURE

GARDEN & MUSEUM

605 Azie Morton Rd. ( 512) 445 5582

Hours: Tu–F 10–4, Sa–Su 12–4 umlaufsculpture.org

GALLERIES

ADAMS GALLERIES OF AUSTIN

1310 RR 620 S. Ste C4 (512) 243 7429

Hours: M–F 10–6, Su 10–2 adamsgalleriesaustin.com

AO5 GALLERY

10000 Research Blvd., Ste. 118 ( 512) 481 1111

Hours: M–Sa 10– 6, S u 12–5 ao5gallery.com

ART FOR THE PEOPLE

1711 S. 1st St. ( 512) 761 4708

Hours: Tu–Th 11– 6, F-S u 11–7 artforthepeoplegallery.com

ARTUS CO.

10000 Research Blvd., Ste. 141 (512) 761 6484

Hours: M–Su 12–6 artusco.com

ARTWORKS GALLERY

1214 W. 6 th St. ( 512) 472 1550

Hours: M–F 10–5, S a 10–4 artworksaustin.com

ATELIER 1205

1205 E. Cesar Chavez St. (512) 434 9046

Hours: Tu-F 11– 4 atelier1205.com

AUSTIN ART GARAGE

2200 S. Lamar Blvd., Ste. J (512) 351 5934

Hours: Tu–Su 11–6 austinartgarage.com

AUSTIN ARTSPACE

7739 Northcross Dr., Ste. Q (512) 763 0646

Hours: F-Sa 11–5 austinartspace.com

AUSTIN GALLERIES

5804 Lookout Mountain Dr. ( 512) 495 9363 By appointment only austingalleries.com

BIG MEDIUM GALLERY

916 Springdale Rd., Bldg. 2 (512) 939 6665

Hours: Tu–Sa 12– 6 bigmedium.org

CAMIBA GALLERY

6448 Hwy 290 East, Ste. A102 (512) 937 5921

Hours: F-Sa 12–6 camibaart.com

CENTRAL LIBRARY GALLERY

710 W. Cesar Chavez St. (512) 974 7400

Hours: M-Th 10 –9, F-Sa 10 – 6, Su 12– 6 library.austintexas.gov/ central/gallery

CHRISTIAN-GREEN GALLERY

201 E. 21st St. (512) 471 0254

Hours: W- F 12–5, S a 11–2 galleriesatut.org

CLOUD TREE STUDIOS & GALLERY

3411 E. 5th St. (512) 797 8852

Hours: M-F 12– 6, Sa-Su 12–5 cloudtreestudiosandgallery.com

CO-LAB PROJECTS

5419 Glissman Rd. ( 512) 300 8217

By event and appointment only co-labprojects.org

CONTRACOMMON

12912 Hill Country Blvd. #F-140

Hours: M–F By appointment only Sa–Su 12– 6 contracommon.org

DAVIS GALLERY

837 W. 12th St. ( 512) 477 4929

Hours: M–F 10–6, Sa 10–4 davisgalleryaustin.com

DIMENSION GALLERY SCULPTURE AND 3D ART

979 Springdale Rd., Ste. 99 ( 512) 479 9941

Hours: Th-Sa 10–6 dimensiongallery.org

DOUGHERTY ARTS CENTER

1110 Barton Springs Rd. ( 512) 974 4000

Hours: M-Th 10–10, F 10–6, Sa 10–4 austintexas.gov/department/ dougherty-arts-center

FLATBED CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY PRINTMAKING

3701 D rossett Dr. ( 512) 477 9328

Hours: W–F 10–5, S a 12–5 flatbedpress.com

FLUENT COLLABORATIVE

502 W. 33rd St. ( 512) 453 3199 By appointment only fluentcollab.org

GRAYDUCK GALLERY

2213 E. Cesar Chavez St. ( 512) 826 5334

Hours: Th–Sa 11– 6, Su 12–5 grayduckgallery.com

ICOSA COLLECTIVE 916 Springdale Rd. #102 ( 512) 920 2062

Hours: F–Sa 12–6 icosacollective.com

IVESTER CONTEMPORARY 916 Springdale Rd. Bldg 2, ste. 107 (737) 209 0379

Hours: Tu–F 10– 6, Sa 10– 4 ivestercontemporary.com

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BIRTHDAY BOOGIE

Celebrate 48 years of Antone’s Nightclub and iconic Austin blues with a month-long series of special concerts this July.

tribeza.com/antones-nightclub-48thanniversary

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MODERN MASTERPIECE

See inside the jaw-dropping Austin property that was just listed for a record-breaking $50 million. tribeza.com/legacy-of-lake-austin-50million