One of Texas' largest regions, the Prairies and Lakes region encompasses a vast swatch of land stretching from Brenham north to beyond the
Dallas/Ft Worth Metroplex. It is bordered to the west by the
Texas Hill Country and to the east by the
Piney Woods. Within the prairies and lakes region is Texas' second largest metro area, a pair of popular college towns, the state's largest outdoor market place, numerous lakes, unique towns, historical sites and much, much more.
Situated along the banks of the Colorado River, just outside of Austin, Bastrop is one of the states most scenic towns. Bastrop caters to outdoor enthusiasts, with Lake Bastrop and Bastrop State Park being central among the towns attractions. A number of great golf courses are also located close to Bastrop and the town itself offers some unique shopping opportunities.
Located in beautiful Washington County - the "Birthplace of Texas" - Brenham is best known for two things: Blue Bell and bluebonnets. The Blue Bell Creamery, makers of the famous ice cream, is located here and tours of the plant are popular among visitors to Brenham. Additionally, Brenham and the surrounding rolling prairies of Washington County are among the best places in the state to see the state flower bloom. During spring, virtually every roadside and field are covered with bluebonnets in full bloom. This annual event draws thousands to Brenham and the surrounding area.
Canton, the county seat of Van Zandt County, is best known for its "First Monday Trade Days," held the first Monday of each month. This monthly sale comprises Texas' oldest and largest outdoor marketplace. The story goes the First Monday Trade Days began back in the 1850s. The trade days were scheduled to coincide with a traveling circuit judge's monthly visits to Canton. Today the First Monday Trade Days complex includes 28 miles of walkways and both indoor and outdoor vendor sites. And, despite the name, the trade days are no longer held on a Monday, but rather the Thursday through Sunday leading up to the first Monday of each month.
Home to Texas A&M University, College Station is truly a "college town." In fact, the town was built up around the university, making it truly the center or town. Texas A&M Aggie football games and other sporting events are major draws for College Station. The town is also surrounded by several lakes that provide ideal locations for fishing and water sports. The Texas World Speedway is also located in College Station and draws thousands of race fans to its events.
Often overshadowed by Dallas, its sister city in the D/FW Metroplex, Ft Worth is actually the nation's 16th largest city and offers visitors a wide array of things to see and do. Home to Texas Christian University, the Amon Carter Museum of Western Art, Ft Worth Stockyard, Billy Bob's, Texas Motor Speedway and more, Ft Worth is full of unique attractions.
Granbury offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities on Lake Granbury, but this small town is also known for its antique shopping, wineries and artist and artisan groups.
Grapevine has so much to offer, it will probably take a few trips just to fit it all in! Wineries, a vintage railroad, the Grapevine Opry, Bass Pro Shops, Lake Grapevine... the list goes on and on!
Located just outside Dallas, Lewisville is famous for its namesake lake, as well as Old Town Lewisville shopping district and numerous historic sites.
Straddling Salado Creek, the tiny town of Salado is a perfect weekend getaway for those looking to truly get away. Filled with bed and breakfast inns, quaint shops, artist galleries, and fine restaurants, Salado is an idyllic spot for a relaxing vacation.
Named after the Waco Indians, this long-ago indian village located on the Brazos River is now a modern city and home to Baylor University as well as a number of renowned museums.
