1. Old Victoria Driving Tour

    April 24, 2013 by LaRue Roth

    Recently, a prominent Texan was quoted as saying that old Victoria is one of the prettiest places in Texas. After taking a quick mental tour around the Lone Star state, stopping at some of my favorite places along the way, I decided he was spot on. Founded by Martin de Leon in 1824 and with more than 100 landmarks and buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, old Victoria provides a charming home for residents and businesses and a stunning backdrop for festivals and special events.  The distinctive design of architect Jules C. Leffland can be seen in many of the homes in old Victoria and noted Texas architect J. Riely Gordon designed the 1892 Victoria County courthouse, voted one of the ten favorite historic courthouses in Texas.

    An easy way to explore our downtown is to pick up one of our new Old Victoria Driving Tour Guides here at the Victoria CVB Visitor Information Center and head on down Main Street to De Leon Plaza where the tour begins.  The driving tour guide and map will help you wind your way through our historic downtown as well as provides a photograph and the story of  each of the 84 truly amazing, historic buildings and sites included in the tour.  It also describes a couple other important historic sites like Tonkawa Bank and Evergreen Cemetery and tells the story of why Victoria is known for La Calle de Los Diez Amigos, the Street of 10 friends.

    I have the privilege of both living and working in old Victoria.  I love to stomp around downtown, feeling history ooze between my toes or ride my bike through the neighborhoods, imagining the breeze is whispering stories of old as I pass by each gem.  I confess a particular fondness for numbers 74 and 75 on the driving tour.  Both of these grand old dames are survivors, for sure.  They were built in Indianola and withstood the devastating 1886 hurricane after which time their owners wisely dismantled them and moved them to Victoria.  I don’t mean to take away from the other historic buildings on the tour; each one is special with a fascinating story of its own.

    Do yourself a huge favor and invite your favorite someone along on the old Victoria driving tour.  Enjoy the beauty of Victoria and step back in time for just a little while.

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  2. Kayaking in Victoria

    February 26, 2013 by DWilliams

    Have you ever seen the steam rise up from the river while the Mockingbird sings his own rendition of Beautiful Day by U2 early in the morning? Well at least that is what my Mockingbird would be singing as I ease my kayak into the river. I started kayaking in college and I have loved it ever since. It was actually a class offered for my degree and how could anyone resist not putting that course on your transcript? I would like to share with you some kayaking tips that I have learned along the way. Then later we will discuss where to kayak in Victoria. By the way, I am not an expert but these tips will help you if you are interested in taking up the sport.

    Helpful Tips:

    Plan your trip.

    • Always have a plan and stick to your plan. Be sure to tell someone “on shore” where you are going and when they should expect you back. Check the weather and flow of the river. For the Guadalupe River you can visit http://www.gbra.org/ to check the current conditions.

    Always paddle with a buddy.

    • Not your dog named Buddy. You will need a friend, sibling, adult, lifeguard, human being, etc.

    Always wear a life vest.

    • Very seldom do you hear about the person that drowned wearing a life vest. Life vests are also good for holding other safety gear like a glow stick, sunscreen, water proof case that contains your cell phone, emergency whistle, knife and lip balm.

    Snacks & Water

    • Be sure to bring water to stay hydrated and food to keep you energized to finish the trip.

    Know how to read the river.

    • I’m not talking about the Comal River where there are signs that tell you what lies ahead. I’m talking about noticing trees and rocks sticking up out of the water. Be able to tell where the slow moving water is and where the current picks up speed. Notice shallow water and be ready to portage your vessel so that you don’t tear up the hull.

    No Flip Flops!

    • Make sure that your footwear covers your entire foot and has a sturdy thick sole. I will never forget when one barefoot man stepped out of his kayak to take a break and stepped on a fish hook. Not pleasant.

    Falling out and getting back in.

    • Yes it happens to even the most experienced paddler. You must learn to how to get back in your boat especially when in deep water.

    Once again these are just a few tips that I have learned over the years. If you are interested in kayaking in Victoria the Guadalupe River does have a very nice 4.2 mile section that begins and ends in Riverside Park. At the moment there are no kayak rentals in Victoria but there is a local club called Coastal Bend Paddlers. They have a Facebook page and when the weather is right they meet in Riverside Park every Thursday to paddle the Guadalupe River. If you are nice and bring them snacks they might let you borrow one of their kayaks. The Victoria Parks and Recreation Department hosts an annual Kayak Clinic in August for beginners of all ages. For more information on kayaking I would recommend visiting the Texas Parks and Wildlife webpage at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/boat/paddlingtrails/.

    Danielle Williams

    Advertising-Events Manager

    Victoria Convention and Visitors Bureau

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  3. Grab a Bite!

    December 18, 2012 by Joel

    Whether you need a great spot to host a business lunch or would like to treat yourself to something different, Downtown Victoria restaurants are serving up some good grub. Many know the famed Fossati’s Deli, the oldest deli in Texas and one of the oldest restaurants in the US.  They’ve been around since 1882, with a menu that includes tasty sandwiches, soups, and salads.  Get some of the best burgers in town at Rosebud Fountain and Grill, and if you’re extra hungry order up some of their excellent fried pickle chips and milkshakes.  The 1950s-esque atmosphere also provides plenty of conversation pieces.  At Huvar’s Artisan Market and sample their signature salads or sandwiches such as the City Hall salad topped with shoestring onions and pesto ranch dressing, or the sausage and peppers sandwich on an artisan Ciabatta bun.  If burgers, sandwiches or salads aren’t your thing, fear not because Beijing Garden provides some excellent Asian cuisine with daily lunch specials; try the delicious egg drop soup with your meal.  If you’re in the mood for some Mexican food, drop by Taqueria Mi Familia and order some of their enchiladas.  For tasty fare in a great atmosphere, head to Greek’s 205 Bar.  Their prime rib on Wednesday night is a huge hit, as is their daily menu filled with lighter fare such as gumbo and free appetizers during happy hour, 4pm-7pm.  Also be on the lookout for the new restaurant opening at the top of One O’Connor Plaza, formerly Olde Victoria at the Oak Room.  This new establishment promises to be a top-notch steakhouse providing breathtaking views of the city, and will also serve wild game and seafood.  And definitely don’t forget the Pumphouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar, just a few blocks away from downtown in beautiful Riverside Park.  Their Sunday brunch is a favorite among locals; I’m a fan of the Texas Benedict plate.  They also have great daily lunch specials, dinner entrees, and host a variety of musicians playing on the outdoor patio overlooking the Guadalupe River.  Check out each restaurant under the ‘Dining’ listings or our website and plan your next meal in Downtown Victoria!

     

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  4. Destination Downtown

    November 30, 2012 by Joel

    Great live music, relaxed atmospheres, and fun special events. Sound like a good time to you? If so then all you need to do is visit some of the local nightlife hotspots in Downtown Victoria! Downtown Victoria is an awesome spot for a night out with your friends, with five unique bars adding their own special flavor to our downtown.  If you are feeling up to it, I suggest taking an evening and stopping by each of these locales……..First up is 77901 Wine Bar at the corner of Main and Juan Linn, their relaxed atmosphere is a great place to unwind after a long day of work, especially in one of their incredibly comfortable lounge chairs and couches! Next, swing by Greeks 205 Bar and sample some of their delicious appetizers that they offer for FREE earlier in the evenings.  Grab some fresh air and enjoy their recently extended outdoor patio area as well.  Take a few steps up Constitution Street and visit Downtown Bar and Grill; if you are a fan of rock and alternative music this is your place!  At the corner of Liberty and Forrest awaits the Golden Gecko.  Regular theme nights and events is their specialty, with such happenings as Jazz nights, salsa dancing, live comedy acts and much, much more! Finally, end the night with some excellent live music at Steve-A-Renos Rock-N-Roll Blues Bar!  A variety of incredibly talented musical groups take the stage at this relatively new establishment on Santa Rosa Street!  That brief description I offered hardly does justice to all that the nightlife scene in Downtown Victoria offers to residents and visitors to Victoria, you’ll just have to see for yourself!

    *Side Suggestion: Looking for another hotspot to add to your itineary or to grab a meal in the evening? The nearby Pumphouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar in Riverside Park is a great option, with regular specials, live music, and beautiful atmosphere as it overlooks the Guadalupe River!

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  5. It’s All Going Down Downtown!

    November 19, 2012 by Joel

    If you’re looking for something other than the same old same old, you should definitely try to check out one of the unique and fun events going on in Downtown Victoria! With its large public square, beautiful buildings, and variety of dining and nightlife options, Downtown Victoria is the natural place for some great events to happen!  If you’re looking for something fun right before the  holidays, check out the “Black Friday Downtown Open House” this Friday, November 23.  A lot of the retail shops, restaurants and nightlife spots are boasting extended hours and special deals to lure people in.  You can find that perfect gift, enjoy a great dinner or grab some drinks with your friends!  Check out all the details and list of participating locations on the website for the Victoria Main Street Program! Coming soon is a weekend full of fun for the whole family with “Christmas on the Square” on Friday, November 30th and the Lighted Christmas Parade on Saturday, ecember 1st.  And don’t miss your chance to browse from a variety of vendors and find that perfect last minute holiday gift for a loved one at Victoria Market Days Saturday, December 15th.

     There really is so many great events taking place in Downtown Victoria throughout the year; see the annual events listing on our website and check out our events calendar to see all that’s going on!

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  6. Get Plugged In

    August 28, 2012 by Joel

    So I’ve recently began to start checking out a lot of the live music venues here in Victoria, and all I have to say is that I’m blown away with all the incredibly talented musicians we’re so lucky to have! A lot of the acts may sound familiar to you, with names like Jerry James, Clay Crockett & the Shotgun Riders, Dr. Yahagi & the Mended Hearts, The Scott Taylor Band, Crossroads, The April Hall Band, Ron Shumate, The Rackit!, and The Krystals, (I could really go on and on and on!) probably ringing a bell.  And the place where these artists perform are nothing short of exceptional themselves, and range from large dance halls like Two-Step Dancehall and Lounge to smaller, intimate venues like 77901 Wine Bar.  Historic Schroeder Hall, just a few minutes outside of town, regularly brings in major country acts.  

    If you’re looking for who plays where and when, a great resource to check out is the “Get-Out” section of the Victoria Advocate; their listings are really thorough.  Search for an artist or venue on Facebook too; they’ll likely have a fan page with show updates.  So if you’ve got a free night and the urge to make it interesting, than come out and support these great musicians! Check out some of these great live music venues below:

    Two Step Dancehall and Lounge · Schroeder Hall · Greek’s 205  Bar · Golden Gecko · 77901 Wine Bar · Steve-A-Renos Rock and Roll Blues Bar · Downtown Bar and Grill · The Pumphouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar · The Forum Club · Dodge City Night Club

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  7. “Prayer Wheels”

    June 15, 2012 by Joel

    I got a chance to see the Nave Museum’s current showing of “Prayer Wheels” by artist David Best and have to say this is one interesting exhibit. Take two very different themes, automotive pieces and classical and religious scenes and combine them on one canvas. The image below really paints a picture (no pun intended) much better than I could explain! As a classic car enthusiast myself, this exhibit really did peak my interest.  I was especially a fan of the old-school white wall tires and Texaco signage! Not only where there artistic works on the wall but also several unique sculpted items too.  Anyone who is a fan of art, cars, or both will find this exhibt a real treat! And for that art enthisiast in your life the Nave has got an excellent gift shop with a variety of vibrant, coloful pieces.

    What really got this exhibit kicked off on a great note was the Nave’s “Art Car Parade” held on May 19th. With over 50 eccentric art cars and custom low-riders, this was an awesome event for a lot of people in downtown Victoria.  A huge crowd then descended on the Nave to see “Prayer Wheels” first-hand and all the parade entries up close, and there were fun activities for the kids as well.  This is an event I am definitely looking forward to in years to come! The Nave is open Tuesday-Saturday 1pm-5pm and late on Thursday 1pm-8pm, so make sure to see these amazing pieces before the exhibit ends on July 1st!

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  8. A Special Treat at the Texas Zoo

    May 30, 2012 by LaRue Roth

     


    I’m sure you’ll agree that the Texas Zoo, located at Riverside Park in Victoria, is always a special place to visit. And the next time you stop by, I hope you’re as lucky as I was not long ago when we happened to bring a group of people to the zoo just as they were hand feeding the Bengal tigers, Krista, age 9, and Saffron, age 11.  Seeing the size of Krista’s paws up close made my jaw drop and gave me an even greater appreciation for the beauty and strength of these magnificient creatures. The zoo staff also hand-feed the young lions, Aesa and Gaia, as well as part of their training program.  it’s hard to believe they are 2 1/2 years old already!  So make time to visit the Texas Zoo soon and maybe you’ll catch feeding time.  It’s a hoot! There’s always more to do at the Texas Zoo!

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  9. Discover this Secret Garden

    by LaRue Roth

    The Master Gardeners of Victoria have created an oasis for all to enjoy in the most unexpected place – right next to the air traffic control tower at Victoria Regional Airport. Officially it’s called the Victoria Educational Gardens or VEG for short but it’s so much more than that.

    When I stepped through their wrought iron gate entrance for the first time early one morning recently, I felt as though I’d discovered the most wonderful secret garden. Snapping photos along the way, I wandered from one themed garden to another, immersed in beauty and tranquilty.

    And there actually is a Secret Garden for children cleverly tucked away at VEG complete with a butterfly hatchery. (I don’t think butterflies actually hatch, but you catch my drift!) VEG wraps itself around the old officer’s quarters of Foster Army Air Field, one of two buildings available for rent at the site. VEG is open daily from dawn to dusk and is FREE to visit.

    Do yourself a big favor and discover this secret garden for yourself.

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