Planning a Dog Days of Summer Day Trip

I have to say that our daily schedules don't really change with the end of summer. With no children at home, we don't have a bustle of activity with the change of seasons. Being self-employed, we schedule our trips to town at times when we can avoid the traffic anyway, so the change in school traffic doesn't really impact us.

But, nonetheless, there's still a feeling that summer is ending and new season is soon beginning. Although hot weather will go on well into September here (if not longer), there's nonetheless a shift in the air. The breezes begin to come from a different direction, and, soon, our big sycamore trees will begin to rustle just a bit, hinting at the promise of cooler air.

During these dog days of summer, be sure to take some time to plan a quick day trip before you get caught up in the change of seasons. Yesterday we took off for the Texas Hill Country and enjoyed a day in Fredericksburg and Johnson City before returning home and stopping at a lakeside park in Jonestown. Here at look at some of our favorite stops on Friday's getaway:

Altdorf, Fredericksburg

We love this dog-friendly restaurant and try to go every time we go through Fredericksburg. The restaurant specializes in German fare, and it's really like a mini trip to Europe right in the heart of Texas. Although yesterday we found ourselves beneath the restaurant's covered patio because of the threat of rain, here's a look at the extensive dining area beneath umbrellas.

Marienkirche at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Fredericksburg

Just down the street from Altdorf stands the historic St. Mary's church. The church dates back to 1846, ancient by Texas standards, and the tower of the Marienkirche has stood here since 1861.

Vereins Kirche Church, Fredericksburg

This octagonal building, also called the Coffee Mill Church, is a historic museum now. It makes a great photo backdrop in this community with strong German roots. The building is located in the Marktplatz downtown park, a great place for a dog walk.

Marktplatz, Fredericksburg

As I mentioned, the Marktplatz or Market Square is found in downtown Fredericksburg right on Main Street. The park is the site of the city's festivals and special events but we love visiting during quieter times. The park contains a waterwheel, beautiful gardens, and sculptures of the community's historic figures including this statue of settler John O. Meusebach passing a peace pipe to Comanche leaders.

LBJ State Park, Stonewall

This park, just across the Pedernales River from the LBJ National Historic Site, recalls the legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson and his wife, Lady Bird. The park has some great walking trails (and the opportunity to check out the herds of Longhorns and buffalo).

Starbucks, Marble Falls

Irie knew we were passing the home of the Puppuccino.

Jones Brothers Park, Jonestown

This Lake Travis park was a new discovery for us! The dog-friendly park is free (except for boat launching), with swimming on a quiet arm of the lake. We're looking forward to many more visits and picnics here!

I hope you enjoyed a look at our fun day trip–and I hope it inspires you to plan a Dog Days of Summer Day Trip of your own!