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National Museum Day: Museums to visit near Kyle

Texas is fortunate to have over 1,000 museums open to the public. National Museum Day is May 18, and there are some fantastic museums right here in Central Texas. From the presidential to the downright weird, here are seven museums near Kyle that you should check out. 

 

Blanton Museum of Art: Since 1963, this art museum housed on the UT campus has attracted art lovers from around the state and the world. The museum boasts more than 21,000 works in its collection, spanning a range of artistic mediums and eras. If you love spending an afternoon simply wandering around and getting lost in a museum, the Blanton Museum of Art should be at the top of your list. 

 

Calaboose African American History Museum: Located about 15 minutes from Kyle in San Marcos, this small museum is housed in Hays County’s first jail – a building that dates back all the way to 1873. The museum’s collection includes over 500 items centered around the African American experience. Entry to the museum is free of charge, but it is only open on Saturdays from 10 AM to 3 PM or by appointment, so plan accordingly.

 

Memorial Mini Golf and Museum: Part mini golf course, part military museum (you read that right), this Buda golf course/museum aims to provide some fun for visitors and honor the U.S. men and women who served in World War II. With both indoor and outdoor mini golf courses to play, it promises some competitive fun paired with a little bit of military history along the way. 

 

LBJ Museum: The Lyndon Baines Johnson Museum of San Marcos commemorates our nation’s 36th president and the role Texas played in molding him to become one of the 20th century’s most regarded leaders. Exhibits include presidential memorabilia, early photographs, local news clippings, and materials from LBJ’s years as a student at Southwest Texas State Teachers College and his time as a teacher in the state before moving into the White House. 

 

McKenna Children’s Museum: Located in New Braunfels, this local children’s museum is all about providing a fun and educational atmosphere that encourages kids to see, touch, and smell the exhibits. With an environment that allows a child’s imagination to run wild, this is one museum where parents will never have to worry about their kiddos uttering that dreaded phrase, “I’m bored.”

 

Museum of Ice Cream: The honor of the “most delicious museum” on our list goes to this Austin museum that promises to help visitors “rediscover” their inner child through the “universal power of ice cream.” It’s not so much a museum dedicated to the history of the frozen treat as it is a space designed for Instagram-worthy photoshoots (think giant tubs of plastic sprinkles). But yes – you do get to eat actual ice cream! 

 

Museum of the Weird: Inspired by the capital city’s “keep Austin weird” slogan, this kooky museum houses all sorts of unusual attractions and curiosities. Once visitors pay the $13 admission, they’ll be welcomed inside to view shrunken heads, the Fiji mermaid, and other “freaks of nature.”

 

 Whether you’re looking to entertain the kids, learn about Texas state history, or simply want to broaden your appreciation for art, there’s a museum in the Kyle area for just about everyone. 

To learn more about Kyle and find your home here, reach out to the Crosswinds team.

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Blog Homebuilder Kyle

Builders in Crosswinds

Crosswinds was developed to create a dynamic community by incorporating design aspects that enhanced the daily aspects of life. That concept is evident with features such as resort-style amenities and homes constructed with the best materials by today’s top homebuilders. 

These elements make a Crosswinds home entirely unique and a great place to live, and a solid investment for your future. 

 

The builders at Crosswinds have been hand-picked for their proven history of excellence. All have been crafting distinctive homes in the Austin area now for decades. With exclusive designs and flexible floor plans, you’re sure to find your dream home. Get to know some of our fantastic builders and learn more about their unique styles:

 

Brightland Homes – With customizable floorplans and craftsmanship that utilizes the latest in homebuilding technology, homeowners can rest assured they’re buying a home that can be enjoyed for decades to come with Brightland. The firm has been constructing exceptional homes for over 30 years and has earned countless design and construction awards in the process. 

 

Highland Homes – For nearly 40 years, the builders of Highland Homes have been designing and constructing homes that Texans can be proud of and grow in. The company strives to provide homes with floorplans that work for today’s homeowners by using the latest innovations in construction building materials. It’s this sort of commitment that has helped Highland earn numerous industry awards, including the People’s Choice Builder of the Year award for nine consecutive years. 

 

Pacesetter Homes – Inviting living spaces, high-quality materials, and energy-efficient design and construction are what you’ll find with a Pacesetter home. The team behind the Pacesetter name knows a thing or two about designing the perfect home – they’ve been in the business for over 70 years. The Austin-based firm is committed to giving Kyle families a home that is designed to a higher standard and can be a foundation for living life to the fullest.

 

MileStone Community Builders – Co-Founder and CEO Garrett Martin is all about creating beautifully crafted homes that perfectly align with the lifestyle of Central Texas. Since 2009, he’s surrounded himself with a team of designers and project managers, all with one goal in mind – to deliver a great home and a great home-buying experience each and every time. With strong attention to detail and commitment to quality, it’s no surprise MileStone is one of the area’s most esteemed homebuilders. 

 

Perry Homes – Commitment to the highest quality, superior design, and exceptional customer service – these are the cornerstones that guide the Perry Homes team. The woman-owned business has constructed stunning homes in over 90 communities across the state, and now they’ve brought that expertise to Crosswinds. With floorplans and features developed for a variety of lifestyles, Perry Homes retain one of the highest customer satisfaction ratings in the industry. 

 

Pulte Homes – Known for expert craftsmanship, distinctive curb appeal, and striking features, the homes built by the Pulte Homes homebuilding team are designed to provide homebuyers with a home that meets their needs of today and tomorrow. This means versatile living spaces, flexible floor plans, and customizable features. With award-winning designs and construction that can stand up to a busy lifestyle, it’s easy to see the appeal of Pulte Homes in the Crosswinds community. 

With homes starting in the $300s and features such as two-car garages, home offices, game rooms, and luxury kitchens, our hand-picked builders have thoughtfully designed the ideal home for making the most of the Hill Country lifestyle. Contact us to learn more about our current inventory of beautiful homes. 

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Kyle Kyle Texas

Refresh Your Closet at these Nearby Boutiques

 

Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, Christmas gifts, or something special for yourself, there are some wonderful boutique shops nearby. While there are numerous shops and stores to choose from, here are five that should be on your stop-and-shop list. 

 

Two P’s & Calli’s: Be sure to stop by this San Marcos original next time you’re in town. The local shop was opened by the mother and daughter team Pam Couch and Calli Swindle almost 30 years ago and is still a favorite with customers new and old. 

 

They aim to provide a “complete shopping experience” for every woman inside the 6,000-square-foot boutique. From shoes to handbags, and candles to housewares and furniture, you’re bound to spot a great find on every visit. 

 

Ellipsis Boutique: Located in nearby Buda, this local boutique opened its doors in 2017 and has been pulling in curious shoppers in search of unique finds ever since. If your style is a combination of vintage, modern flair, and comfort in mind, then you’re going to love browsing the racks of Ellipsis. 

 

From vintage concert tees to flowing summer dresses and chic clutches, this shop is a treasure chest of fun finds. 

 

The Mercantile at Mill + Grain: It’s rare to find a store where you could get something for everyone on your Christmas list all under one roof, but The Mercantile in Buda just might be that store. Yes, they have tops and bottoms for both a chill Saturday afternoon watching the game as well as for getting dolled up for a night on the town later on.

 

The shop also has great men’s products such as travel mugs and hats, as well as home decor and children’s toys and books. As we mentioned, it’s a one-stop shop!

 

Vintage Soul: Hopping in the car and heading up the road to Dripping Springs is a worthy trip for this cute boutique that offers vintage style, yet is anything but stuck in the past. With tops, pants, and dresses that can work equally well at a Sunday afternoon barbecue and a Monday morning business meeting, it’s no wonder this local boutique is going 10 years strong. 

 

In addition to handbags and totes, the shop also offers home decor and a range of paper products such as journals and puzzles. 

 

Trends & Traditions: This San Marcos store has carved out a place all its own and has been providing its customers with unique items since 1966. If you’re looking for clothing, a handbag, or a piece of jewelry that is sure to grab attention in the very best of ways, you’ll find it here.

 

The shop also carries a range of accessories such as hats, eyeglasses, bandanas, and glassware that are reflective of the Texas Hill Country spirit and culture. 

From the proximity to shopping to its variety of local restaurants and robust economy, there are a lot of reasons to love living in Kyle. If you’d like to find a home here, contact the Crosswinds team to learn more. 

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Area Attractions Kyle Kyle Texas

Best Pies in the Pie Capital: The Texas Pie Company

Kyle residents are serious about their pie. After all, the city is the “pie capital of Texas” and home of the Pie in the Sky festival. Naturally, any bakery in town that puts a pie on its counter knows that it’s going to be judged by some pretty pie-savvy customers. With decades of pie baking experience under belt, however, it’s safe to say that Julie Albertson, founder of The Texas Pie Company, knows how to bake an award-worthy pie. 

Julie opened her first bakery in 1986, but was baking long before that. “I started baking with my grandmother in East Texas on her farm,” she told KVUE News. “When I was really little I used to stand on soup cans so I could reach the counter [and help bake].” It was in those formative baking years that she learned the ins and outs of each pie recipe and how to perfect each pie’s unique flavors. 

Shareworthy Pies

Texas Pie Company specializes in creating delicious and unique pies that will satisfy any craving. Julie and her staff take pride in crafting each pie with care to ensure a perfect flavor combination and crust that is buttery, flaky and delicately sweetened. 

You really can’t go wrong with whatever pie you choose but customer favorites include flavors such as Southern Pecan, Lemon Chess, Buttermilk (Julie’s personal fav), Almond Joy, Chocolate Fudge, and Peanut Butter Mousse. The bakery also has an array of fruit pies like Peach, Dutch Apple, Blueberry, Cherry, and Blackberry. 

Now if cream pies are your jam, Texas Pie Company offers Key Lime, Coconut, and Chocolate. And when the fall and winter months roll around, you’ll naturally find Pumpkin and Praline pies waiting to be snatched up by customers. 

More Tasty Options

If you’re looking for an extra treat to go with your slice of pie though, or you’re in the mood for a full meal, the bakery has you covered. A range of cookies, brownies, and dessert bars are available as well as plenty of savory options. Daily lunch specials are offered with items like Meatloaf, Chicken Breast with Cranberry, and King Ranch Chicken, in addition to several sandwiches. 

Now, if you only have time for pie and not a full lunch but want to get something to go, consider picking up a quiche or casserole. The quiches are prepared with fresh eggs, whole milk, and an assortment of fresh veggies, proteins, and shredded cheeses. Casserole dishes include popular comfort foods like Three Cheese Lasagna, Chicken Pot Pie, and Beef Stroganoff. Everything is made in the kitchen daily and can be ordered hot for pick up.

The Texas Pie Company is open Monday through Saturday with lunch items available until 3 PM and pie available until 6:30 PM on weekdays, 4 on Saturdays. Take a tip from us though, if you have your heart set on a particular pie flavor, get there early because when it’s gone it’s gone!

Kyle is full of great local spots and businesses that make it a wonderful place for families of all ages and lifestyles to call home. If you’d like to learn more about making Kyle your home, contact the Crosswinds team.

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Area Attractions Kyle Kyle Texas

Local Business Highlight: Silo Glass Studio

Less than a half hour’s drive from Kyle, you’ll find Silo Glass Studio in San Marcos. Here you’ll discover a community of artists creating some truly stunning pieces of work. Glass is the prominent material of choice, but the artists here also work in both wood and metal. Whether you’re looking to add some locally-created art to your home, or you’re looking to test your skills in glasswork, Silo Glass Studio is the place! 

 

 

Over 30 Years of Creativity

 

Today, the studio is spacious enough to showcase the 3D works of more than two dozen artists, but way back in 1985, the studio founded by Ralph and Jean Petley was much smaller. It specialized in stained glass and for a few years even sold antiques. Chester John and Elissa Beach would eventually buy it in 2014 and with that purchase came a complete overhaul of the space.

 

The old studio was torn down and a new studio was built with upgrades to the property such as a koi pond and two waterfalls outside. The new Silo Glass was also able to expand in size, adding more than 2,000 square feet – making it the largest glass studio in Central Texas. 

 

Not only is the larger studio able to accommodate more visitors, but it allows its artists to spread out and create some incredible works of art. 

 

The Showroom and Exhibits

 

To simply describe the pieces here as “beautiful” or to try to put them into a one-size-fits-all category wouldn’t do them justice. Some pieces are realistic and look like they could come to life, while others are more abstract and serve as an interesting focal point to add to any room. The studio has some pieces that are only for display, but if you’re on the hunt for a glass piece to add to your home or business, some pieces are available to purchase. 

 

Many of the artists also work with customers on specially commissioned products that can bring a truly unique and customized touch to your office space or home. Ranging from small to big and bold, each piece of art is a one-of-a-kind creation that you won’t find anywhere else.

 

Classes

 

One of our favorite things about Silo Glass Studio is that it’s not just a place to admire the works of local artists, but it offers visitors a chance to get in touch with their inner artists. 

 

The studio offers a range of classes focused on a variety of projects for both beginner, intermediate, and advanced skill levels. In one of the two-hour beginner classes, for example, participants will learn to make a glass coaster dish. More advanced and intermediate classes focus on skills such as fusing and open-faced casting that can be used in jewelry making and creating hand-crafted ornaments. 

 

Whether you want to embrace your artistic spirit, shop for a special gift, or simply check out some local art, a visit to Silo Glass Studio is an opportunity to see some of the area’s most talented artists at work. 

 

Silo Glass Studio in nearby San Marcos is one of the many places that make for a fun afternoon day trip for Kyle residents. To learn more about Kyle and finding a home here, contact the Crosswinds team. 

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Family Fun Kyle Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Get Outside in Kyle, TX

Image from The City of Kyle - Local Government Facebook

Although winter has technically just begun, many parts of Texas are already feeling like spring with crisp mornings and warm afternoons. Whether you are looking for more ways to spend days outside or you have more free time on your schedule this time of year, whatever the case may be, here are just a few ways to get outside and discover (or rediscover) all that Kyle has going on.

 

County Line Polo Club – Did you know that Kyle has its polo club? That’s right, you can try your hand at the sport of British aristocrats without having to jump aboard a flight to England. The County Line Polo Club is a local polo club open to the public that specializes in teaching aspiring and skilled equestrians the sport of polo. The club’s instructors offer both individual classes as well as team training to individuals of all ages. The club even has matches for riders to show off their mallet-swinging skills. 

 

If you’re looking to try a new sport this year, you just found it. Giddy up!

 

Sports and Rec Leagues – Perhaps you prefer sports that don’t require you to climb aboard another animal… we get it. The Kyle Parks and Rec Department has options aimed at more traditional sports with winter and spring leagues. 

 

Adult sports leagues include roller hockey as well as kickball, which kicks off at the end of this month. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, there’s also the adult spring fishing tournament happening in April – with a cash jackpot!

 

Kids aren’t left out of the fun as they have their youth fishing tournament, as well as leagues for basketball, swimming, and hockey in the winter and spring months. 

 

City Parks – Sometimes making the most of the great outdoors can be as simple as going for a walk. Two of our favorite places to take in some natural beauty are Lake Kyle and Mary Kyle Hartson City Park. 

 

Lake Kyle is a wonderful spot for a morning or evening walk and is a popular destination for fishing. Birding enthusiasts will also enjoy visiting this park, with herons, ducks, egrets, and other species of waterfowl calling the lake home. Starting in early spring, Lake Kyle is a great place to enjoy some beautiful wildflowers, including a large population of Bluebonnets, the Texas state flower. 

 

Mary Kyle Hartson City Park is a small but charming park and has been part of the city since the early 1900s. It’s a great place for enjoying your lunch break outside or killing some time with the kiddos. In 2020, the city made several improvements including a playground, picnic tables, a rain garden, and a 20-foot-wide promenade. 

 

Plum Creek Golf Course – Kyle is in close proximity to some of the best golfing in Texas and if you’re looking to hit the links in the new year, then you’ll want to check out Plum Creek Golf Course. The 18-hole public course is surrounded by the “natural beauty of Texas live oaks, limestone, rolling hills, and Texas wildflowers,” making each drive down the fairway all the more impressive. 

 

The course also offers private lessons, a pro shop, and bar and grill for guests to enjoy a meal or cocktail before tee time. 

 

There’s plenty more Kyle has to offer when it comes to outdoor recreation. If you’d like to learn more about finding a home in this wonderful city, contact the Crosswinds team today. 

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Events Kyle Kyle Texas

Kyle Go Resolution Run & Polar Bear Splash

If you’re looking for a way to kick off the new year that’s guaranteed to plunge you straight into 2023, then look no further than the Go Resolution Run and Polar Bear Splash.  

 

Whether it’s your first New Year’s plunge or your 99th, here’s everything you need to know about this chilly and invigorating way to start 2023 in Kyle!

 

The Go Resolution Run

 

Whether exercising more is one of your New Year’s resolutions or not, participating in this 5K run is a great way to welcome the start of a new year. The run begins at 9 AM on January 1 with runners gathering at Gregg-Clarke Park, 1231-1301 W. Center St. Registering for the run costs $15 and all runners must register by December 28. You’ll want to register by December 11 to secure an event t-shirt for yourself. (Hey, it’s gonna be chilly, so every layer of clothing counts!)

 

No judgment if a 5K is more than you can handle after a night of New Year’s Eve revelry, there’s also a 1K run that is free to participate in.

 

The run is open to participants (and dogs) of all ages. Last year’s run was broken up into select age groups with awards going to the top finishers in their selected categories. While there is parking available, a big turnout is expected, so if you have friends who are also participating, carpooling is suggested. Now for the main event…

 

The Polar Bear Splash

 

This annual New Year’s Day tradition is believed to have originated in Boston but has since spread worldwide. Many polar bear splashes take place with participants charging into the ocean or an icy lake, but since nobody wants to be plunging into Lake Kyle in January, this splash will take place at James Adkins Pool, 1100 W. Center St, at 10 AM. 

 

Early registration for the event began in November and is $20 through December 12. Participants can still register from December 13 through the end of the year, but registration will be $25 and you’re not guaranteed an event hoodie because of limited supply. And trust us, you’re going to want that hoodie waiting for you when you get out of the pool!

 

Participating polar bears will gather for the splash and take the plunge together at 10:30 AM, swimming across the pool. For those brave participants who want to run and take the plunge, you’ll receive a commemorative item in addition to your free T-shirt and hoodie. 

 

And after a winter run and swim in a freezing pool, you’re probably going to want to warm up with a hot meal from a place like Aviator Pizza or Milt’s Pit BBQ, both nearby in Kyle.

 

The Resolution Run and Polar Bear Splash are just a few examples of the many fun community events that happen each year in Kyle. If you’d like to find the perfect home in this wonderful city reach out to the Crosswinds team to learn more about our home builders. 

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Events Family Fun Kyle

Holiday Events in Kyle

The Christmas season is truly a magical time of year in Kyle, TX. The city is known to go all out with 25 days of celebration from December 1 all the way through Christmas Day, and this year is no different.

 

From sightings of the jolly elf in red to twinkling holiday lights and live musical performances, here’s everything you need to know about 25 Days of Christmas in Kyle.

 

December 1 Kickoff

 

Go ahead and get out your December calendar because you’re definitely going to want to make note of everything that’s happening throughout the month. The merry fun begins on Thursday, December 1st when the city hosts a welcome party for St. Nick at Mary Kyle Hartson Park (101 S. Burleson Street). 

 

Santa Clause has been visiting Kyle here during Christmas time since 1999 and will make a return this year on Thursday, December 1st from 4 to 9 PM. During the celebration, children will have a chance to take a photo with the man himself and share any special items they may have on their wish list. 

 

The event will also include a tree lighting ceremony at 5:45 and there will be food, drinks, and holiday craft vendors. Throughout the event, area elementary school choirs will perform a medley of Christmas songs to keep the festive mood going. The event concludes when Santa makes his return to the North Pole (for a few days) at around 9 PM, but as we mentioned, Christmas cheer does not end there.

 

Weekly Holiday Events You Won’t Want to Miss

 

Families can enjoy a free photo with Santa on the first two Mondays (December 5th and 12th) from 5 to 9 PM, and the city will be collecting toys for children in need on the first three Tuesdays of the month. Both events will take place at Mary Kyle Hartson Park (101 S Burleson St.).

 

If you can’t make it to the park for a photo with Santa, don’t worry, Santa will come to you! On December 13-15 (Tuesday to Thursday) from 6 to 9 PM Santa will be riding through the streets of Kyle. While Santa won’t be able to ride down every street in the city—he does have to get back to work at his toy shop at some point—families will have the opportunity to wave to him along a designated route. You can even track where he’ll be via the Santa tracker. 

 

A holiday market will also be open each day at Mary Kyle Park so residents will have plenty of opportunities to shop for a special gift from local vendors. Each Saturday prior to Christmas Eve, there will also be live holiday music performances happening in the park to spread a little extra seasonal cheer. You can view more details of each day’s festivities on the City of Kyle’s website. 

 

The Christmas season is one of the best times of the year in Kyle and the 25 Days of Christmas celebration is just one of the many fun events happening in the city throughout the year. If you’d like to find a home near all the fun in Kyle, contact the Crosswinds team today!

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Kyle Kyle Texas

The Railhouse in Kyle

Musicians who play on the stage at the Railhouse (107 E. Center Street) stand and perform with a mural of Willie Nelson and the title to his iconic song “On The Road Again” behind them. It’s a fitting backdrop for this beloved bar in Kyle that has seen some rough spots on the road, but like Willie, it keeps on truckin’ to the delight of locals.

If you’ve never stepped foot in the Railhouse but you’re a fan of cold beer, tasty grub, and live music, then you need to check out this local joint asap!

The Railhouse is Alive and Kicking

The local establishment has been serving up tasty drinks and good times in Kyle for years, but like so many small businesses around the United States, it was hit hard by the pandemic. The bar had to close in 2020 because of Covid and related factors and the building sat empty for 18 months.  

The Railhouse got a second chance, however, in September 2021 when Flip Lockhoof and Trevor Fletcher, two bar owners from Austin, bought the building and reopened it. The reopening was a success from the get-go, with the business owners telling the Hays Free-Press that they “fell in love with Kyle” and that the residents were incredibly welcoming to the new and improved version of the popular bar and music venue.

A Perfect Hangout Spot

Trevor and Flip said that with the new version, they wanted to create “the “best place to find delicious food, fantastic drinks, and great live entertainment in Kyle.” While it’s still very much a bar, they also set out to make it a family-friendly sort of place where parents could feel comfortable bringing their children during the day and early evening.

Stop in at the Railhouse and you can watch sporting events on several large televisions as well as enjoy shuffleboard and pool tables. If guests feel like simply enjoying some fresh air and good conversation, there’s also a fire pit in the back for those perfect fall nights.

Of course, a major draw is the venue’s live entertainment and events calendar. Most concerts are billed to accommodate around 500 people, but the owners told the Hays Free-Press they’ll occasionally book larger acts that can draw up to 2,000 people.

Customers can truly find a good time here seven days a week. Sunday through Thursday it’s open from 4 until midnight, and on Friday and Saturday nights the Railhouse stays hoppin’ until 2 AM. You’ll find something happening here just about every night too. Events span the entertainment gamut from trivia nights to DJs and Tejano dance nights, as well as both ticketed and free heavy metal, country, and rock concerts.

Grab Some Grub

Two food trucks can be found permanently parked just outside the bar and venue, so you’re never going to go hungry while enjoying a cold drink. Courson’s BBQ serves up ribs, smoked brisket, and Texas-made sausage, and if a burger or sandwich is what you’re after, then you can’t go wrong with strolling up to the Badass Foods truck.

The Railhouse is one of many top-notch, locally-owned restaurants that can be found right here in Kyle. If you’re looking for a new home near all the fun and entertainment, contact us to learn more about available homes in the Crosswinds community. 

Image from The Railhouse.