Find spas, shopping and lots of wine in Grapevine, TX.
Grapevine is located just on the outskirts of Dallas with a population of 53,976. The Texas Wine Industry, based in Grapevine, is the 5th largest wine producing state in the country. Which is why a wine tour is a must-do!
Grapevine, TX got its name from the wild mustang grapes that grew abundantly there. They still grow wild on the fence rows. Grapes today grow to produce Texas wines!
Exploring Grapevine, TX
I recently had the opportunity to travel to Grapevine, TX (located on the outskirts of Dallas) for work. Although my free time was limited, the little bit of taste I got was quite delightful. Grapevine, named for the wild Mustang grapes that once covered the area has a population of about 50,000 and is home to the Texas Wine Industry headquarters.
Did you know that the Dallas/Ft. Worth airport is actually in Grapevine? Let me start out by saying that while the Dallas airport is gigantic compared to Kansas City International Airport, it was fairly easy to navigate in and out of. The weather is similar to KC, hot and humid, and the people are genuinely nice. If you ever have a few hours layover in Texas, consider a Grapevine Layover Package. Depending on how much time you have you can choose a family fun or wine and dine package. So smart of the city and a no-brainer for travelers!
I stayed at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center.The resort is absolutely stunning with welcoming surprises such as the scenic pathways that wind through the atrium, the lush indoor gardens and a mini replica atmosphere of the famous San Antonio River Walk.Also on the property is a spa, night club and water park.There really is something for everyone.I scored an upgrade to an executive suite since there had been a slight mishap with my room.My suite had two bedrooms, a small living area with a kitchen counter and sink, two mini-refrigerators and three TV’s.The downside - a view of the back parking lot.I almost forgot to mention my favorite thing about the hotel!The sea salt hand scrub.The scrub smells amazing and leaves your hands incredible soft.I liked it so much I had to bring some home!
The next few days were sort of like a blur.There was a lot of working, eating and wine drinking.I know what you’re thinking – drinking on the job?Yup.It’s a tough job but somebody’s gotta do it! JThe wine tasting at Sloan & Williams Winery was fun and educational.You could tell the owner is very passionate about his product.Now, let’s talk about the wine ice cream – I’m drooling just writing about it.Each pint of ice cream equals to one and a half glass of wine.I opted for the Strawberry Sparkling, although the Chocolate Cabernet and Cherry Merlot were temping as well. I would’ve tried all the flavors if I could.Someone start a wine ice cream tasting business please!
I did get to explore Grapevine’s historic downtown for just a bit. The shopping there is great if you love boutique, chic and vintage shops. Historic Main Street is lined up with restaurants, stores and winery tasting rooms. Make sure you stop in the Grapevine Visitors Bureau for attraction brochures and suggestions on what to do in the area. In fact, in any city you visit, stopping at the visitor center is one of the first things you should do. As part of our tour we got to ride the Vintage Railroad Train for a one hour excursion which included live entertainment and more wine.
Texas definitely brought it and lived up to their slogan. I would absolutely go back to Grapevine for a vacation. Spa, shopping and wine – all the ingredients you need for a fun girlfriends getaway.
I smell a girlfriends getaway in the near future....
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