Tag: Crosswinds Kyle

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Area Attractions Family Fun

How to Beat the Heat: Indoor Family Fun in Kyle, TX

By August, just about everyone has had it with the heat. You’re sweaty, the kids have been to the pool more times than you can count, and you’re running low on sunscreen. Clearly, this calls for some indoor relief. We may be in the middle of the dog days of summer, but there are still plenty of fun things to do right here in Kyle – all from the comfort of air conditioning!

 

Head to the Movie Theater (or bowling alley) – Yes, you can stream from an endless selection of movies without getting off the couch, but there’s just something magical about the movie theater that can’t be replicated in the living room. 

 

If it’s been a while since you packed the kiddos in the car and went to the movies, now is the perfect time to spend a day at EVO in Kyle. With VR games and a full bowling alley, the entertainment megaplex has plenty of ways to keep the family entertained long after the credits roll. 

 

Bounce, Climb, and Swing – Urban Air bills itself as “the ultimate indoor adventure park and a destination for family fun.” The keyword here is “indoor.”

 

This indoor trampoline park in Austin is a guaranteed way to help the kids burn off some of that summer energy before the school year starts. In addition to the trampolines, there are climbing walls, go-karts, and laser tag. A range of price options also gives parents some flexibility in regards to their child’s ability and skill level.  

 

A Place Just for the Littles – With numerous locations throughout the Hill Country, Little Land is a popular indoor gym and play space geared toward helping children grow. The play space offers a variety of programs and activities ranging from open play-gym to pediatric physical therapy, music programs, day camps, and parents’ night-out events. 

 

Become a Ninja… a Code Ninja – You won’t find any throwing stars or nunchucks here, but what families will discover is an environment that fosters creative thinking and problem-solving. Instead of simply playing video games, Code Ninja centers teach kids how to build their own video games through a fun coding curriculum. The centers offer programs for children ages 5 to 14 with a variety of camp and at-home programming from basic coding to robotics. 

 

Shoot Some Zombies and Create a Masterpiece – Blasting zombies and creating stunning art probably don’t have a lot in common, but kids can do both at Uncharted Adventures. This multi-activity center is geared more toward older children and teens but is sure to be a fun indoor activity for both kids and parents. 

 

With everything from rage rooms that allow guests to smash and break things to their heart’s content to escape rooms, splatter paint sessions, ax throwing, and yes, a zombie airsoft arena, this place is anything but boring. 

 

Hopefully, this will provide you with a little inspiration on the next hot summer day when you need a way to beat the heat and kill a few hours indoors.  

 

As you can see, Kyle has a lot to offer when it comes to family fun. If you’d like to find the perfect home here for your family, reach out to the Crosswinds team to learn more about our home builders. 

 

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Area Attractions

Unchartered Adventures: Kyle’s Original Rage Room

Shattered plates, old TVs smashed to smithereens, home appliances beaten to a pulp, and broken glass – literally everywhere. Usually, a scene like this would be concerning, but it’s actually the aftermath of a whole lotta fun for visitors of Unchartered Adventure’s Rage Room in Kyle! 

 

You could say that rage rooms are all the rage, as they’ve recently been popping up in cities from coast to coast. Before we get into why grabbing a baseball bat or sledgehammer and reenacting the printer scene from Office Space is a whole lot of fun, let’s explain what a rage room or smash room is. Basically, it’s a room full of donated junk where, for a small fee, guests get to break, smash, and pulverize anything in the room. 

 

The items in the room to rage on can range from things as small as a coffee mug to as big as an old car. Once guests suit up in coveralls, face shields, eye protection, and gloves, they’re free to grab their weapon of choice and smash away. Some people opt for baseball bats and old golf clubs while others test their might with sledgehammers. Feel like simply throwing plates at a wall? You can do that too! 

 

Besides being great fun, it’s also an easy way to blow off some steam. “I actually left feeling better and less stressed,” reads a review from Joshua Ortiz. And because smashing things to a soundtrack is just more fun, the Unchartered Adventures team has equipped the room with a sound system so guests can put on whatever music they want to rage out to. 

 

Not only does Unchartered Adventures offer a place to break old electronics without getting in trouble or having to clean up the mess (the staff handles that), but it offers several other adventures worth checking out. 

 

Guests can choose from ax throwing, escape rooms, or a zombie air soft arena where visitors hunt for the undead in a post-apocalyptic maze of splattered neon paint under black lights. 

 

One of the most popular offerings that are certain to be a hit with guests of all ages is the splatter paint room. The entire room is a canvas under a blacklight that brings to life a palette of neon acrylic colors. Guests can use brushes, sponges, stencils, and other tools to channel their creative spirit and create their own messy masterpieces. (Don’t worry, protective ponchos and shoe covers are provided to keep your clothes mess-free.)

 

It’s no surprise that killing zombies, smashing up old cars, solving escape room riddles, hurling axes, and creating art can make a person thirsty. Guests can unwind before or after their adventure in the bar/lounge area that’s stocked with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and outfitted with several flatscreen TVs. 

 

With its anything-but-boring entertainment options and perfect chill-out area, it’s no wonder that Unchartered Adventures is such a hit for date nights, birthday parties, company outings, and so much more. 

This entertainment destination is just one of the many businesses that are a testament to Kyle’s economic growth. If you’d like to find a home here, reach out to learn more about our home builders at Crosswinds.

Photo from https://uncharteredadventures.com/gallery/

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Lifestyle

Bird Watching in and Around Kyle, Texas

With its winding rivers, limestone cliffs, and rolling hills of open grasslands, the Texas Hill Country is fortunate to be home to a variety of migrating bird species. In fact, next to California, Texas boasts more birds calling it home than any other state in the country. Over 600 birds spend part of their lives in the Lone Star state and many of them are right here in the Central Texas region. 

 

If you’ve never considered birding as a hobby, you owe it to yourself to give it a try. Bird conservation not only enriches one’s appreciation for nature but helps to foster environmental stewardship, plus bird-friendly habitats can increase property values. Whether you’re new to the area and looking for birding tips or simply want to throw yourself into a new hobby, here’s a rundown of what makes Kyle such a wonderful place for birds and bird fans alike. 

 

Birds You May See in Kyle

There’s just something about this area that birds love. Over 350 different species of birds have been recorded in Hays County, Texas. This includes everything from songbirds such as warblers, orioles, bluebirds, and chickadees to birds of prey such as barn owls, hawks, and eagles. Many migrating birds pass through the area on their way up to Canada or down to Mexico. So if you’re lucky enough, you just might see a fulvous whistling duck or green-breasted mango!

 

Where to Spot Birds Around Kyle

Kyle happens to be near some wonderful birding hotspots where you’re guaranteed to see some pretty cool feathered friends – no matter what time of year you visit. If you really want to put your binoculars to good use, consider these birding destinations. 

 

  • Lake Kyle
  • Plum Creek Reservoir
  • Stagecoach Park (Buda)
  • John Stokes Park (San Marcos)
  • Spring Lake (San Marcos)
  • Blue Hole Park (Wimberly)

 

Bring the Birds to You

It doesn’t take a lot to establish your own backyard as a bird-friendly oasis. The easiest way to start is by installing a bird feeder and birdhouse or two. You’ll want to get a bird feeder that is squirrel resistant and choose birdseed that appeals to birds in the area. A basic universal birdseed should be heavily composed of black oil sunflower seeds. This will be a hit with everything from cardinals and finches to showstoppers such as the vermillion flycatcher. 

 

Consider putting up a hummingbird feeder and you may just attract a few buff-bellies or ruby-throated hummingbirds. Many people think that you need to buy specialty nectar for hummingbird feeders but according to the Audubon Society, the best option is a solution of ¼ cup of refined white sugar to 1 cup of water. 

 

When it comes to birdhouses, it’s all about who you want to take up roost. Smaller birdhouses will attract everything from starlings and wrens to Eastern Bluebirds. While some people may have luck with hawks or owls settling into larger birdhouses, most often, these birds prefer to make their own nests high in the treetops or alongside cliffs.

 

Are you looking for a new home where you can create a birding space in your backyard? Reach out to the Crosswinds team to learn more about our builders. 

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Lifestyle

Kyle Local: Koy Chinese and Sushi

Kyle Local Restaurant

Looking for authentic Chinese cuisine and sushi? You can find that here in Kyle at Koy Chinese and Sushi (5695 Kyle Parkway, Ste. 800, Kyle, TX 78640). Owner Frank Lai opened Koy in Kyle when Hays County and the surrounding area were booming, in 2011.

The family has been in the restaurant business for more than 30 years. They founded the business on three things: exceptional service, being community-oriented, and delicious food.

According to Community Impact, at Koy’s beginning in 2011, there was a staff of about 10 people and as the community of Kyle saw massive population and economic growth, that growth was reflected in the success of local businesses like Koy.

All that success came to a screeching halt in 2020 when the pandemic hit. Koy had to drastically adjust its business model to keep the lights on and the sushi rolling. The restaurant suffered major setbacks, as did most businesses. Koy had to close its doors to dine-in, and the staff decreased by about half. The restaurant went from a successful, well-staffed restaurant to a small restaurant dependent on to-go orders and delivery services.

As Covid-19 precautions were gradually lifted and regular business resumed, Koy Chinese and Sushi bounced back as a local favorite for Chinese and sushi, with dine-in, to-go, and delivery options. Last October, Koy celebrated its 10th year of business.

Koy makes everything to order and fresh. Its sushi bar is overseen by a master sushi chef who prepares fresh sushi every day. You’ll find favorites such as the LA, spicy crab, California, and vegetable rolls. They also serve many favorites in Chinese cuisine such as General Tso’s chicken, beef and broccoli, cashew chicken, egg drop soup, and more.

Many customers rave about their dishes and say it’s authentic Chinese cuisine. Visit the Koy Chinese and Sushi Facebook page for some mouthwatering photos of their dishes. They also post menu updates, specials, and more, so give it a Like to stay up-to-date.

Have a hankering for other cuisines? Dripping Springs is full of a variety of cuisines. Here are some other Dripping Springs restaurants you might want to check out:

What’s your favorite restaurant in Kyle? Connect with us on social media and let us know!

To stay on top of great resources from Kyle and nearby, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Looking to move? Meet the Kyle home builders or contact our Crosswinds team.

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Area Attractions

Kyle Local: Plum Creek Golf Course

Kyle Local: Golf

Golfers love the Kyle and the Austin, Texas, area because the weather is great for golfing almost year-round. Kyle is fortunate to have a golf course with spectacular views at Plum Creek Golf Course (4301 Benner, Kyle, TX 78640). Here’s what you’ll want to know about the Kyle golf course.

About Plum Creek Golf Course

The designers created a championship golf course in which no two fairways touch. It gives you the experience of playing your own private golf course. All 18 holes take you through a setting that reflects what makes the Hill Country memorable with its rolling hills, live oaks, and sparkling lakes. Check out the images showing the golf course to see what each hole looks like.

The course underwent a major renovation in 2012 to add a practice facility that includes 3 acres of short-game scoring areas, an acre of practice tee surface, multiple chipping greens, bunkers, uneven lie practice areas, and target greens. You have a wealth of opportunities for improving your golf game. And plenty of golf instruction is available if you’d like a helping hand from a pro. 

If you need any golf supplies, accessories, or attire, the pro shop is stocked to the gills with everything you want to enjoy golfing. This facility is also the home of the Texas State Bobcat men’s and women’s golf teams.

Other Things to Do at Plum Creek Golf Course

There’s nothing like a delicious meal after playing 18 holes or practicing your swings. Just head right over to Glenn’s Bar and Grill restaurant on the course for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks. It’s named for Glenn Evans who helped open Plum Creek Golf Course.

The restaurant underwent renovations in 2018 to add multiple beers on tap, more high-definition TVs, and brand-new furniture. Do you love to watch the big game on a big screen? Glenn’s has a 100″ projector that delivers an unbeatable game-viewing experience.

Have a celebration coming up? You can host an event, banquet, or wedding, at the facilities. The Plum Creek staff will take care of all the details including dining options. The facility is also accessible and they have rooms that can support 100 or 220 people, depending on the room you choose.

Visit the Plum Creek Golf Course Facebook page for upcoming events and updates.

To stay on top of great resources from Kyle and nearby, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Looking to move? Meet the Kyle home builders or contact our Crosswinds team.

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Area Attractions Homebuilder

Why You Should Start House Hunting During Winter

When it comes to homes near Austin, especially the new homes in Kyle, TX, it’s never too early to start looking! Crosswinds in Kyle, TX is the perfect master-planned community to call home, and 2017 is the year to start your search. Here’s why:

Perfect Timing for a Summer Move

Buying a home isn’t always a quick process. However, if you start your search during winter and find a community and home that you love, you can finalize all the details and paperwork in time for a summer move. This is especially great if you have children in school because then they can start out at a new school in August instead of moving in the middle of an ongoing school year.

Less Demand

Winter is the perfect time to start house hunting because there is less competition between homebuyers. With so many homes near Austin being built, there is no shortage of options, but half of the stress of home buying is competing with other potential buyers. Take advantage of the low competition and start your search during these slower months.

Rates are Still Low, But Not for Long

For some time now mortgage rates have been close to record lows, but that is starting to change. Since the presidential election, mortgage interest rates have risen approximately .5 percent, which is actually considered a rapid increase. While experts don’t believe that type of rise will continue, they do expect it to slowly rise throughout 2017 and the coming years. So don’t delay and start searching for your new home before this winter is over!

Our master-planned community will have plenty of new homes in Kyle, TX available, and they’re all being built by three amazing homebuilders that are known for their quality construction and attention to customer service.

Get a head start on all the other homebuyers out there, and begin house hunting now! You can start your search with our master-planned community of new homes in Kyle, TX. Learn more about Crosswinds in Kyle, TX and contact us today!

Image from Thinkstock by Getty Images. Item number: 519664048