Hill Country Traveling: Go-To Stops Along the Way

With the holidays upon us, we all have places to go and people to see. Near or far, we travel over the next month or so to visit loved ones. On our journey, we all have those go-to places we must stop at before making our rounds – those staple places that like tradition, we must stop at for rest, snacks, or just to grab a bite to eat. But these aren’t just any ordinary places, these are our must-stop destinations that we have come to love and enjoy like an old pair of jeans.

Photo: Sonia Ramirez

First on the agenda is food! There is always that one place when you’re on the road or in a familiar city that you must stop and enjoy. For me that familiar and feels like home restaurant is Mi Tierra in San Antonio, Texas. With its quaint surroundings and décor that feels as if you stepped into your family’s kitchen, Mi Tierra welcomes you with the aroma of its fresh bakery of goods.

Photo: Sonia Ramirez

Not only are there unlimited choices there, but once you settle in the menu is alive with an assortment of dishes that you really have a tough time deciding between breakfasts, lunch or just making it brunch. “Sixty years later, Mi Tierra is a world famous landmark-the place hometown regulars and hungry tourist go for authentic Mexican food and a warm Texas welcome,” the restaurant’s website proudly boasts.

Photo: Sonia Ramirez

As you sit and enjoy a delectable plate of food, you are surrounded by the most beautiful murals displaying some of today’s famous and loved artists, such as Carlos Santana, Eva Longoria, and Filmmaker Robert Rodriguez. With Christmas lights adorning year round, you can’t help but get in a festive mood. You may even see strolling musicians bringing the place alive with its cultural and catchy tunes. Mi Tierra seats over 500 and is located in Market Square, El Mercado in the heart of San Antonio.

Photo: Mike (on Yelp)

Then, before heading out or heading home, a must stop for many is Buc-ee’s – a long-standing tradition for many Texans heading into the Hill Country or its surrounding areas. For many, this is their home away from home, so to speak, so they make it a point to stop in for a rest or to pick up a variety of snacks to continue on their trip.

Photo: Brett Mickelson

Not only do you have unlimited choice of ICEE’S to choose from but you can enjoy it with some warm walnuts, pecans or almonds made fresh daily. It doesn’t stop there. There is also a wide variety of items to shop from while you’re there from kitchen apparel to home décor it’s there. Make sure to grab a t-shirt to show your Buc-ee’s pride. By far the cleanest bathrooms this side of the Guadalupe River also!

So next time you’re traveling, take note of your favorite place and share why you love your go-to place as much as these beloved stops.