Texas Trotter

Everyone likes to go outside to enjoy fresh air every now and then! And when it comes to beautiful Florida weather, there’s no harm in taking a trek across the beautiful sunny, scenic walkways across the region!   Bird Island Park is a hotspot for anyone living in the nearby Jacksonville area, especially if they’re looking for beautiful sights, winding trails, incredible nature-themed photo opportunities, and more! Open daily from dawn until dusk, the park exudes a striking array of flora and fauna, with a thriving ecosystem, plenty of open space, a gazebo, a nearby boardwalk, and more! And there are additionally plenty of fantastic art-themed attractions to allow for a festive, creative atmosphere to unwind! Families and friends will love gathering together to make each day count through this blooming, evergreen paradise!   The park is one of the many reasons why nearby Jacksonville is one of the absolute best places to live in the state! Many of its apartments include a hos...

If you’re a Houston resident, what better way to enjoy a bit of fresh air and relaxation than out in the great outdoors—or, at least, outside where all the sunshine is!   Houston’s Waterwall Park is an iconic location you’re sure to never forget, complete with plenty of open space, summer fun, and of course, its amazing Waterwall attraction! I have some very fond memories of visiting as a child and I cannot begin to describe how utterly breathtaking the entire experience is! The wall itself is ENORMOUS and you will absolutely love the wide host of amazing photo opportunities ready and waiting once you strike a pose!   The Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park features a lush canopy of live oak trees, perfect for climbing, or taking your little ones out and about . It’s situated in the beautiful Uptown sector of Houston, complete with plenty of welcoming attractions and accommodations for everyone to enjoy! Additionally, the park is situated around a wide green field, absolutely ...

For those of you living in the Jacksonville area who love all things dogs, or for those of you who are pet-owners, there’s a great way to get out and enjoy some quality fresh air with your furry friends!    A local staple of Jacksonville’s beautiful sunny climate, Dog Wood Park is the perfect place to stop by for a weekend stroll with man’s best friend. From winding green fields to obstacle courses to personalized space for you and your pooch, you’ll absolutely love traversing the wide stretches of this magnificent dog-focused environment. Visitors can check in every day and there’s even a special club for members, along with an array of excellent  park activities to participate in.   Dog-owners are well aware of just how important it is to get some fresh air, especially when it comes to their pets. For so many people, this time spent outdoors can act as an excellent bonding activity between you and your dog, as well as the chance to keep them happy and socializ...

Florida is notorious for being the gator capital of the world.   Fortunately, these beautiful scaly beasts have more to them than meets the eye and are more than just the gigantic eating machines we see on tv! Animal and reptile lovers from across the state are proud to feature a thriving habitat for these amazing creatures, culminating in a massive gator-themed experience you and your family will never forget!   Gatorland is Orlando’s prime gator park, a bustling, booming place for kids and families alike. Complete with plenty of gator sightings, the park comes complete with an exciting, fun-fueled experience. Some of its main attractions include a free-flight aviary, a petting zoo, animal shows, zip-lining, and a new gator-themed off-road adventure! The park provides hours of excitement and thrills for people of all ages, allowing guests to take in the full Orlando experience alongside these fantastic swamp-bound beasts!   Orlando has always been more than just the Disn...

Looking for a great place to unwind within the Houston area?  Look no further! If you’re a Houston resident and haven’t had the chance to visit Hermann Park yet, it’s your civic duty to stop by for a visit. Located in Houston’s Museum District, Hermann Park is a sprawling, beautifully landscaped park full of green fields, wide spaces, and plenty of great things to see and do across all boards! The park is home to some of the most iconic recreational landmarks in the city, including the Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theatre, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Hermann Park Golf Course. I was actually just at Hermann Park a weekend or so ago. It really is something spectacular, complete with some excellent civilian services and some absolutely breathtaking nature. If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, this is definitely up your alley for a great weekend run or even a great way to spend some quality time with friends or family. Covid took a lot out of us in terms of wanting ...

Ready for some exciting Austin news? This year, one of Austin’s most beloved historic parks is set to reopen with a brand new makeover, complete with acres of green space, hike-and-bike trails, playscapes for the kiddos, and a dazzling outdoor amphitheater for performances.  Waterloo Greenway Conservancy recently announced that on Monday, May 3rd after years of construction, Waterloo Park and Moody Amphitheater will open to the public this coming August. This sleek, scenic park is designed to cultivate the full Austin experience with stunning landscaping, plenty of nature, and fresh gardens for everyone to enjoy. It hopes to be the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, as well as a solid outing to enjoy some quiet time outside.  “The reopening of Waterloo Park represents a bridge between Austin’s past, present, and future,” says Kathy Miller, interim CEO of Waterloo Greenway. “We’re honoring the culture of the area while building a place that is a vital part ...

Every day is a beautiful day in Austin!  One of Austin’s greatest perks is that it is more than often full of excellent sunny weather. And what could be better than spending some quality time with family and friends while enjoying a relaxing day flying a kite out on the green? The ABC Kity Fest is one of Austin’s most popular traditions. In 2021, it is happily celebrating its 92nd year, complete with a city-wide celebration of Austin’s parks in partnership with the Austin Parks Foundation. Austin residents are encouraged to go enjoy some fresh air outside and fly a kite at their neighborhood park, taking special Covid-19 safety precautions with proper face coverings and maintaining safe social distancing from others as well.  Those who are participating in kite-flying are encouraged to share photos and videos of their experience with the ABC Kite Fest by tagging them on Instagram and Facebook. Some of the best parks to be during the festival are Bartholomew District Park, Dick...