Prairies and Lakes road trip

The Prairies and Lakes Region offers a wide array of experiences to discover. With the perfect mix of culture, history, food and nature this region is sure to leave you wanting more!

Get to know the Prairies and Lakes

Starting off in the well-known Dallas, you’ll soon find yourself exploring hidden gems across small towns in the region. From eclectic museums to outdoor adventures to local dining, there is something for everyone in this region.

Day 1: A new side of Dallas

Kick off your journey in the Prairies and Lakes Region in Dallas. Here we’ll explore nature escapes, local gems and, of course, delicious, write-home-about meals.

Jorg’s Cafe Vienna

This family-owned restaurant offers an Old World atmosphere alongside authentic Austrian and German cuisine. They also have a great selection of beers to pair with your meal

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

This stop offers the perfect nature refuge among the big city landscapes. Named a top botanical garden by USA Today, this 66-acre park is beautifully cared for and landscaped – a can’t miss!

Pepe’s & Mito’s

This local establishment is the perfect place to get your Tex-Mex fix. Diners rave about the authentic, homemade recipes that never fail to awaken your taste buds.

Mandalay Canal Walk at Las Colinas

Outside of Dallas in Irving, you’ll find a beautiful paved waterfront trail along the canal. With restaurants and shops nearby, and gondola rides available, this is the perfect place to spend a summer evening.

Day 2: Taking in Waco and Killeen

As you continue your journey around the Prairies and Lakes region, spend some time in Waco and Killeen to enjoy nature, visit unique museums and indulge at local eateries.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Visitors can walk in the same tracks of dinosaurs along the Paluxy River at this state park. Beyond hunting for dinosaur tracks, visitors can also take a guided tour on horseback to take in the park in a unique way!

Dr. Pepper Museum

Texas does not disappoint when it comes to eclectic, niche museums. While in Waco, be sure to visit the Dr. Pepper Museum to learn about the history and enjoy decades of memorabilia from this iconic brand.

Baylor Bear Habitat

To pay homage to its mascot, Baylor University hosts a bear habitat showcasing its two residents, Joy and Lady. Schedule a tour to learn more about the university’s conservation efforts and to meet these bears who happen to be sisters!

Butter My Biscuit Café

When in the south, you’ve gotta indulge in a few biscuits and Butter My Biscuit Café delivers! This family-owned brunch and lunch destination aims to include biscuits in as many of its dishes as possible.

BLORA

Outside of Killeen you’ll find the Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area (BLORA). Open from May through October, this destination offers equipment rentals, hiking trails, climbing walls, paintball and so much more!

Hierba Fresca Restaurant

For a different kind of cuisine, check out this local eatery in Killeen serving up traditional Puerto Rican dishes. The interior is beautifully decorated and diners rave about the authentic, melt-in-your-mouth flavors.

Day 3: Something for everyone in College Station

Your last stop in the Prairies and Lakes Region will be College Station, home to Texas A+M University. Explore hidden gems, local dining and nature escapes as you savor your final time in the region!

The main entrance to Texas A & M University with the Jack K. Williams Systems Administration building at the end of road in College Station, Texas; Shutterstock ID 1023483109

Lake Bryan

Open year-round, this outdoor recreation destination is the perfect way to spend a summer day. With fishing, hiking, biking, boating and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Ronin Farm

Offering refined farm-to-table dishes, this restaurant updates its menu daily so it can showcase the latest local ingredient. A true foodie’s paradise, this dining experience is not one to miss!

Brazos Valley African American Museum

Built on the site of the black schools that used to operate in Brazos Valley, this museum aims to educate about the history of African Americans in the area. The hosts at the museum are welcoming and knowledgeable making for a memorable experience.

Polite Coffee Roasters

This charming coffee shop prides itself on consistent, ordinary acts of kindness to make communities stronger and better. For a cozy environment, friendly staff and stellar coffee, this is the perfect place to stop!

The Gardens at Texas A&M University

For a quick nature escape, these gardens are the perfect stop. Located on Texas A+M University’s West Campus, this 27-acre refuge offers easy walking paths and many places to sit along the way as your take in the scenery.

Lake Atlas Observation Tower

With retail and restaurant space, Lake Walk offers the perfect mix of nature and culture. Climb to the top of the tower to get a bird’s eye view of Aggieland during the day or night!

Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History

If you need a break from the Texas heat, this museum offers the perfect refuge. Open Tuesday through Saturday, visitors can learn through interactive exhibits and science programs.

Veterans Memorial Park

This tucked away, the 12-acre site pays homage to the veterans through a Wall of Honor, life-sized statues and memorial sites. With over 20 points of interest to explore, this is a worthwhile stop.

The Republic Steakhouse

To close off your tour of the Prairies and Lakes Regions, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at this local steakhouse. Aside from mouthwatering steaks, this establishment also had a wide array of bourbon to choose from.

Start planning your trip to the Prairies and Lakes region now

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