Summer goes fast. Slow down in historic Gruene, a quaint little spot by the Guadalupe, just three and a half hours south.
Rest
Check into the Gruene Homestead Inn (832 Gruene Road, New Braunfels; 830-606-0216) and stay in the 1940s grain silo or 1900s farmhouse.
Relax
Picnic at Landa Park (110 Golf Course Drive, New Braunfels; 830-221-4350); hike nature trails through the 196-acre park or explore the grounds on the miniature train. Hot? Cool off with a paddleboat excursion on Landa Lake.
Repent
It would be a sin to miss the Gospel Brunch, held the second Sunday of each month at Texas’s oldest dance hall (Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Road, New Braunfels; 830-606-1281).
Remember
After breakfast, head up the block to the Smiling Eyes Photo Gallery (1263 Gruene Road, New Braunfels; 830-629-7474) and play dress-up in Wild West attire for an antique portrait — the perfect keepsake.
Because it all goes by in a flash.
BE
An Artist
What: Weeklong art camps inspired by the greats for future virtuosos ages 3 and older.
Why: Time to brush up.
When: Thru Aug. 21.
Where: A Little Artsy, 6719 Snider Plaza (214-750-5522).
SEE
Super Why
What: Kids get their hands on the debut toy line (think games and action figures) from the smart series at this interactive event.
Why: Don’t question it.
When: Sat., noon-2 p.m.
Where: Toys R Us, 9500 N. Central Expwy. (214-363-3192).
PLAN
Summer at the Nasher
What: The new summer pass gets the fam into the museum daily, plus admission to special programs and events like the Saturday Night in the City Concert Series.
Why: Thirty-five smackers for two adults and all kids under 18 who live under one roof.
When: Thru Sept. 1.
Where: Nasher Sculpture Center, 2001 Flora St. (214-242-5100).