Ah, amor! Mid-February is upon us, which means love is in the air. Whether you have been struck by Cupid’s bow or view Valentine’s Day as a commercial holiday, February 14 is on everyone’s radar. This year, relax and take delight in ten things we love about Temple, Texas. The best part? These are all gifts for you!
- Explore Miller Springs Nature. This 260-acre nature preserve offers running and walking trails, diverse wildlife, sightseeing, mountain biking, kayaking and more, just east of Lake Belton Dam. Featuring 110-foot-high bluffs, overlooks, waterways and trails, this free resource is open for your viewing pleasure 365 days a year.
- Soak in the joy of a short commute. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average American spends 225 hours commuting each year. In Temple, you can easily bike or walk to work, leading to less time behind the wheel and more time doing what you love.
- Take a day trip. While Temple’s growing downtown offers a wealth of opportunities, we also have notable Central Texas treasures in our own backyard. Georgetown, the “Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas” and the artistic village of Salado lie just south of Temple, while Waco and some famous house flippers are due north.
- Make a splash at Lake Belton. In Temple, Texas, we enjoy pleasant weather most of the year (though we do like it hot!), and that means any time can be lake time. Lake Belton features picnic areas, campsites, bank fishing and boat ramps for all your aquatic adventures.
- Forget all your cares and go downtown. More than a catchy song, downtown Temple, Texas offers a wealth of unique outings. Our favorite choice for a romantic dinner? The atmosphere, menu and wine selection are always perfect at Pignetti’s.
- Find something you can’t live without. While you’re downtown, stop by The Hub for a unique shopping experience. Once a turn-of-the-century harness shop, The Hub features more than 40 shops and 22,000 square feet of boutique space in a romantically historic building. From apparel to vintage finds and home décor, The Hub is a shopping experience you don’t want to miss.
- Strike a pose. If you’re feeling particularly photogenic or want to buy a print of local landscapes that make your heart throb, swing into Studio on the Avenue. Local photographer Wes Albanese has been taking artistic photos of people and places in Temple, Texas since 2011.
- Be part of the arts scene. Temple’s Cultural Activities Center hosts professionally produced musical and theater entertainment, lecture and concert series, and can host intimate dinners for up to 320. Art and culture lovers can also take in a show at Temple Civic Theatre or get good vibes during the 26th concert season of Temple Symphony Orchestra.
- Nosh on brunch Megg’s Café. While most brunch menus usually roll up the carpet after noon, the McCaffrey family at Megg’s Café understand that any time is a perfect time for brunch. Served weekends from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., indulge in delightful treats from the in-house bakery, acclaimed by Tex Appeal Magazine and Texas Monthly.
- Brake for Buc-ee’s. More than just a truck stop, Buc-ee’s is a Texas staple for convenience store items, shopping, a fantastic selection of fountain drinks and the cleanest restrooms in America!
There’s lots to love in Temple, Texas. Be sure to follow Temple EDC on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter for the latest updates from our growing community.