Extra Time in Texas: beyond the stadium in Austin and Fredericksburg

One of the biggest sporting events in the world kicks off in the USA this summer, and amongst the high-octane matches is a chance to explore one of the country's most exciting and energetic holiday destinations. Football fans heading to Texas are in for a particularly good time; this southwestern state is home to some of the country’s coolest bars, vibrant culinary scenes, and the great outdoors. It is all easily accessible via direct flights into Austin or simple connections through nearby Dallas.

So, where should you head when you're not cheering from the stands? Make Texas your home ground and revel in "extra time" in Austin and Fredericksburg.

Rhythms and recipes in the capital

You may see Austin as all backstreet bars, beer gardens, and old-school music venues — after all, this is the Live Music Capital of the World® and the host of the legendary SXSW and Austin City Limits festivals. But beyond those musical big hitters — and long nights of listening to blues, country, rock, salsa, and dance — is a city that has established itself as a culinary hotspot, boasting more awarded restaurants than anywhere else in Texas.

Upon touching down in Austin, your first meal may well be one of the city’s notoriously delicious breakfast tacos, followed by evenings exploring legendary BBQ joints.

When you’re not eating or toe-tapping to a local band, you’re likely to be making the most of the city’s outdoor adventures. You could rent a kayak and paddle the waters of Red Bud Isle, or glide beneath the city skyline on Lady Bird Lake. It’s located next to Zilker Park, home to Barton Springs Pool, where you can join the locals relaxing on the banks before jumping into the spring-fed water for a cooling dip.

For a day trip, try Hamilton Pool in Texas Hill Country. It’s been a hit since the sixties due to the tranquil forest hike that leads to a jade-green swimming spot, edged by a grotto and a dramatic waterfall. Don’t miss the Barton Creek Greenbelt—dozens of endangered species call it home, including the Golden-cheeked Warbler, a small bird with a distinct, mustard-yellow face.

Escape to the heart of the Hill Country

For a change of pace that feels entirely and unexpectedly different, drive 90 minutes west to Fredericksburg. This is the heart of Texas Wine Country, where the landscape is defined by lush vineyards and rolling wildflower meadows.

While the town is famous for its boutique tasting rooms and scenic estates, it also carries a unique charm from its past; founded in the 1840s by German settlers, Fredericksburg still blends that old-world heritage with a warm, laid-back Texan hospitality that makes every cellar door and storefront feel like home.

Vines, views, and vineyard stays

Your first stop: your hotel, which should be one of the boutique, beautifully decorated lodgings that dot the countryside. Some are kitsch but cool, featuring leather sofas and ink-blue walls, while others make the most of the landscape, set deep within peaceful woodland. You could even bed down in a vineyard; the city is home to more than 75 vineyards, wineries, and tasting rooms. Many offer their own guest rooms, complete with verandas for enjoying quiet mornings and spectacular sunsets.

Best of all, staying on-site allows you to fully enjoy the food and wine, settling in for multi-course meals with expert pairings before a short wander back for a good night’s sleep. After that? Take a swim in your hotel pool, spend a morning exploring local coffee roasteries, or enjoy an afternoon at the nearby distilleries and breweries. For those seeking a bit of elevation, you can set out to explore 8.5 miles of hiking trails on a climb to the summit of Enchanted Rock, where you'll be rewarded with an uninterrupted panorama of the Texas scenery.

To make the most of your time in Texas this summer, visit ExtraTimeinTexas.com