Granbury, Texas = Small Town Americana

Where do I begin on this piece of Americana, apple pie, old-glory, everyone goes by two names (i.e. Jimmy Joe, Billy Bob), God-fearing town of the South called "Granbury"? If you have a problem with people making eye-contact and greeting you with a kind word, a cross or ichthus being prominently displayed on businesses signs or the Texas and American flags being proudly displayed pretty much everywhere...don't bother going.

If all of this is appealing to you...read on...

D's family is not only from Granbury, but I'm convinced must have helped settle it. Why? Because we are beginning to find out he's related to so many people there (albeit some are distant-distant) who have lived there since the town was put on the map. We have a picture dating back so far it shows the actual Buster Brown and his dog on the awning on one of the shops on the square.

So, if you have not yet been to this little piece of heaven-on-earth, I'm happy to provide you with a list of "must sees" when you plan your trip. Of course, I'm sure the locals would have more/different suggestions than I do, but here's a start. You will no doubt find your own favorites.

On your way into town, on Highway 377, you'll see a place called "Heflins Produce Market". Without a doubt, you'll find no better fruit, veggies, salad dressings and even hanging plants here. If you don't stop now, hit it on the way out.

Once in town, there are a number of places you can "lodge". My favorite has always been the Nutt House on the Square. It has quite a history and was built in 1893, lodging guests since 1919. It's a popular place to stay so book it in advance.

Okay, so you are on The Historic Square of Granbury. If you can, try and visit when there is something going on that weekend. There's a festival of some sort planned at various times throughout the year. The square turns into a bustling center of activity for all ages and will make even the most mature person turn giddy at how they are now in the mix of yesteryear.

Make sure you eat lunch at Rinkytinks. Yes it may say "Ice Cream Parlor" on the sign, but you will not find a better grill than in here. (Phillips Family recommendations...the Chubby Smoked Turkey Avocado Wrap and for the kids...well, Belle says they have the best Chicken Strips). Also, please take time to venture in the back to the restroom where an old picture of Marilyn Monroe is hanging alongside a pink hula-hoop. I kid you not. Why? Who knows. I don't want to ask because I don't want them to take it as a criticism and risk it being taken down. I enjoy it too much for that to happen. I'm sure there must be a great reason, so as I get to know the folks who run the place a bit better, I plan on asking with great enthusiasm at learning the story behind it.

Plan on taking in a show at the Granbury Opera House. Along with the whole Granbury Square, the Opera House is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is a charter member of the League of Historic American Theatres. I haven't been since I was very young, but still remember the quaintness of it. Chandeliers, stone walls, heavy velvet curtains and that vintage smell (at least at the time!). It's a must see.

Ladies, there are so many shops to visit that will pull at your purse strings. My favorites (at least for now) are: Pamela & Company, Whimsey, Brazos Moon Antiques and Crazy Horse (at least I think that's the name! It's right next to Dakota's Kabin and has the best women's clothes and great prices...WOW! Except for the always expensive/overpriced Ed Hardy apparel).

Off the Square...You've got to make time to get out on the lake. Either bring your own watercraft or rent one. Just go and have a great time. It's a beautiful lake lined with not just stunning homes, but also simple and humble ones.

At some point you'll want to pull up and dock at Groggy Dawgs Marina. If you get there by around 7pm on a Saturday night, you may enjoy a live band. We recommend the popcorn shrimp and fish and chips. Unfortunately, the menu isn't the best and they seriously need to do something about making the beer ice cold (shouldn't it always be ice cold, and especially on a marina?), but the ambiance can't be beat. It's literally on the shore Lake Granbury and you get to feed huge carp and catfish in the space they've created and fenced off in center of the barge. It's the kids favorite thing to do. Watch for the two grand-daddy catfish that hang out in the corners.

The Brazos Drive-In. Yes! It's an actual drive-in movie theater that I regret to say I've never been to...yet. I've never been to a drive-in movie in my life, but plan on going and so I must recommend this attraction. Hopefully someone will take me someday soon. (hint, hint!)

If you are a history buff, you gotta go to the Granbury Cemetery and see the final resting spot of Jesse James, as well as many other of D's relatives. Yes...Jesse James is in our family tree. Seriously.

We have some regular haunts, but they wouldn't necessarily catch the eye of or even be memorable to a visitor. They are endearing to us for other reasons and when in town, we will either stop by for a visit or at the very least, tip our head their way. To the Broadway Grill and the First National Bank of Granbury (on the square)...you will forever occupy a place in our hearts.

I highly recommend this inspiring town to everyone and hope you get to visit soon. It holds many fond memories for my family. The places and especially the people in this town will generate some great times for your family as well...I promise.

You can thank me later.