It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Historic Fort Martin Scott gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Fredericksburg, TX is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Vaudeville or visit Pioneer Schandua House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Fredericksburg, TX, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Fredericksburg, TX understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Fredericksburg, TX 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
A new luxury hotel is headed to Fredericksburg to anchor the fast-growing city's latest upscale development, The Meuse.When developers announced the new development, they teased that a luxury hotel would be included. Set to open in 2027, Kimpton Fredericksburg will serve as a vibrant social hub, according to developers, offering high-end experiences for guests and local residents....
A new luxury hotel is headed to Fredericksburg to anchor the fast-growing city's latest upscale development, The Meuse.
When developers announced the new development, they teased that a luxury hotel would be included. Set to open in 2027, Kimpton Fredericksburg will serve as a vibrant social hub, according to developers, offering high-end experiences for guests and local residents.
The Meuse, named after Fredericksburg founder John O. Meusenbach, is a 22-acre mixed-use development that will extend the town's downtown district with a mix of retail, dining and gathering spaces for a city that is a popular tourist spot.
While the city is perfect for a day trip, you may want to stay the night at the 210-room hotel that will be pet friendly and have a rooftop lounge and an 18,500-square-foot event space. This is the fourth Kimpton hotel planned for Texas, following the opening of the Kimton Santo last year in San Antonio.
Guests can expect to see signature Kimpton perks like in-room yoga mats, evening social hours, and a "Forgot It? We've Got It!" program, in addition to new amenities tailored to the Hill Country, including a 10,000-square-foot resort-style pool deck, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a cafe, and a poolside bar and lounge.
And, of course, the hotel is only minutes away from more than 75 wineries in the Hill Country and Enchanted Rock State Park.
The hotel will also compete with another luxury hotel in the city's downtown. Earlier this year, The Albert Hotel finally opened after a three-year delay.
Texas' first Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts will also open in Fredericksburg in 2027.
Find it: US-290 and W. Main St., Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Texas' vast territory is a boiling point of diverse histories, cultures, and natural landscapes. From the Panhandle in the north to the Chihuahuan Desert in the west and the Gulf Coast in the south, the Lone Star State offers a rich tapestry of delightful destinations that would make any traveler want to pack their bags for a weekend getaway. While famous cities like Dallas and Houston steal the spotlight, there is no shortage of small tow...
Texas' vast territory is a boiling point of diverse histories, cultures, and natural landscapes. From the Panhandle in the north to the Chihuahuan Desert in the west and the Gulf Coast in the south, the Lone Star State offers a rich tapestry of delightful destinations that would make any traveler want to pack their bags for a weekend getaway. While famous cities like Dallas and Houston steal the spotlight, there is no shortage of small towns promising a deserved break from the urban noise.
A trip to the Texan countryside introduces visitors to unique cultural experiences, unknown historical heritage, and unexplored outdoor adventures within a relaxed rural atmosphere. Whether you want to inspect well-preserved state history in Nacogdoches or explore otherworldly natural treasures in Wimberley, find some of the nicest small towns in Texas.
The Texas Hill Country is awash with lovely little gems, and this German village is one of its most sought-after locations. Known for its sweet wines, stunning nature, and charming heritage, Fredericksburg has something for everyone. The community's fascinating backstory is told at the Pioneer Museum, where hundreds of artifacts, memorabilia, and relics depict the German immigrant experience upon arrival. Meanwhile, the town houses multiple vineyards where guests get a taste of award-winning wines. This includes Grape Creek Vineyards, whose portfolio features at least 90 wine varieties and Tuscan-inspired tasting rooms.
Fredericksburg is a popular getaway for outdoor lovers. Hikers, campers, picnickers, and backpackers flock to the Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park to experience stunning Hill Country landscapes across its 330-acre expanse.
Castroville is another gem in the Hill Country area, set along the relaxed banks of the Medina River. It is famous for its rich outdoor scenery and important historical sites. With over 126 acres of hiking trails, fishing spots, and birding areas at the Castroville Regional Park, tourists can look forward to exciting times outdoors. Historians are invited to take a tour of the Landmark Inn State Historic Site for a glimpse of Castroville in its formative years. This preserved 19th-century hotel tells the story of industrialization, immigration, and preservation along the banks of the Medina River.
However, you can delve deeper into the town's rich beginnings at the Alsatian Steinbach Haus. This two-and-a-half-story structure was originally constructed in the 17th century and maintains several period furnishings and artifacts.
Nicknamed "Hub of the Hill Country," Boerne is one of the several towns that German immigrants chose to settle in around central Texas. Unsurprisingly, it is steeped in German heritage, which becomes apparent to anyone strolling the rustic downtown streets. Guests can sample great-tasting German beers at the Cibolo Creek Brewing Company or buy retro memorabilia at Flashback Funtiques.
The Boerne City Lake Park provides a serene outdoor space for connecting with Mother Nature. It is a popular hub for anglers, boaters, and picnickers, and offers access to the calm waters of Boerne Lake. Boerne is also famous for its underground adventures, attracting visitors from around the region with unforgettable excursions through Cascade Caverns.
Rockport offers travelers a chance to bask in the beauty of the Gulf Coast. Its serene beachfront scenery presents the ideal setting for rest and relaxation. Many first-timers will fancy a stroll on the sandy stretches of Rockport Beach Park. You can alternatively lounge on the smooth sands for unrivalled panoramas of the Gulf Shore or dive into the toasty waters for a refreshing dip. The little town houses a fair share of historical markers, with the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site being the most conspicuous. Built in the 1870s and sporting stunning Second Empire architecture, it is one of the most important sites from the period.
The arts are an important part of Rockport's cultural fabric. Every often, enthusiasts from within and out gather inside the Rockport Center for the Arts for art classes, workshops, exhibitions, and live performances by homegrown talents.
Between the stunning Marfa lights phenomenon and the elaborate outdoor art installations, this small desert city in West Texas boasts a string of world-class attractions. Marfa is a celebrated arts hub, and thousands visit the town to examine the huge displays at the Chinati Foundation. This former army base was repurposed to showcase several large-scale artworks. Additionally, Ballroom Marfa constantly stages a lineup of events, concerts, exhibitions, and other public gatherings related to the arts, including the Marfa Myths cultural festival.
However, one of the most recognized attractions in Marfa is the annual Marfa Lights Festival. This rare happening draws curious locals and tourists to the Marfa Lights Viewing Area, from where they can marvel at the mysterious orb that glows over the townscape.
Brenham is a historic town in east-central Texas with a well-preserved downtown district and colorful German heritage. Strolling through its National Register of Historic Places-listed town square reveals a cluster of vintage sites and landmarks, starting with the Giddings Stone Mansion. This 1870 home is the perfect example of Greek Revival architecture in the area and provides glimpses of life in the Victorian period. However, the Brenham Heritage Museum provides a broader picture of local history. The building stockpiles a vast library of artifacts reflecting centuries of area history.
Besides the rich history, downtown Brenham treats first-timers to unforgettable theatrical productions at Unity Theatre. This intimate venue sits about 125 people, but its atmosphere becomes infectious once the performances kick off.
This remote desert town in West Texas lies in the heart of Big Bend Country. Its bustling downtown area features a mix of museums, antique stores, and restaurants, perfect for exploring on foot. You can stop by the Museum of the Big Bend for a unique perspective of the surrounding region from prehistoric times to modern day. Shoppers can target the Alpine Farmers Market on Saturday to shop for baked goods, fresh produce, and crafts, or head to the Cheshire Cat Antiques to check out vintage treasures.
The outdoor scenery in Alpine is punctuated by jagged mountain peaks, desolate desert trails, and dramatic canyons. You can get an excellent perspective of the area landscapes along the moderately challenging Hancock Hill Trailhead, which culminates in 360-degree views from a hilly vantage point.
Considered the oldest community in the Lone Star State, Nacogdoches is one of the most interesting small towns in Texas. It promises visitors a rare trip down memory lane, exposing the state's rich heritage. There is no shortage of historical markers, and the Millard's Crossing Historic Village paints a picture of pioneer life in the 1830s. This cluster of historic treasures features several log cabins with related memorabilia. Meanwhile, the Stone Fort Museum preserves a replica of an 18th-century structure constructed by Commander Antonio Gil Y'Barbo.
History aside, Nacogdoches offers a handful of green oases for those who enjoy the outdoors. You can take it easy along the tranquil grounds of Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden, home to a colorful mix of camellia, azalea, and Japanese maple gardens with nature trails cutting through.
This small town in Brazoria County lives up to the hype of its nickname, "City of Enchantment," with its collection of high-quality attractions. Lake Jackson is home to Sea Center Texas, a state-of-the-art aquarium housing an array of cute marine species. Those curious about the community's history can find valuable resources at the Lake Jackson Historical Museum. Displayed inside is a catalog of exhibits dating back to the plantation days.
Elsewhere, outdoorsy guests can get their binoculars for a unique birding session at the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory. This remarkable sanctuary protects hundreds of bird species and habitats along the Gulf Coast region.
Named after the natural mineral pools that dot its territory, Mineral Wells is an excellent destination for discovering the Texan backcountry. It provides endless outdoor activities at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, whose 640-acre reservoir fuels recreation like boating, fishing, kayaking, and more. While wandering the open spaces, spare a few hours to inspect fossil findings and archeological discoveries at Mineral Wells Fossil Park. The site has prehistoric specimens dating back almost 300 million years.
Those who prefer to stick within the downtown area can make the most of dining and wining opportunities in the area. Natty Flat Smokehouse promises to charm your taste buds with juicy Southern-style barbecue, which you can follow up with a pint of beer at Rickhouse Brewing.
Wimberley is a jewel in the Texas Hill Country area, famed for its fantasy-like swimming holes that formed naturally. This cluster of wonders draws enthusiasts from around the state, looking to witness them and even take a dip. Jacob's Well Natural Area is among the most famous bathing holes in the town and features a series of underwater caves fed by the crystal-clear blue waters of an artesian spring. You can view more ecological beauty at Cypress Creek Nature Preserve, which is the perfect spot to commune with nature.
Meanwhile, one of the best ways to take in Wimberley's natural diversity, including its scenic watering holes, is to take the Wimberley Zipline Adventures. This aerial excursion takes you above the town's backcountry at speeds of up to 30mph.
Goliad has been the site of landmark events in the state's history, particularly the Goliad Massacre of 1836. The town's rich history coincides with the Texas Revolution, whose memories live on through a fair share of related markers. Every year, people come to witness the Goliad Massacre and Living History Program, which reenacts the events leading to the infamous bloodbath. Also, the Presidio la Bahia State Historic Site preserves an 18th-century fortress built by the Spanish and offers a look at the old days.
If you are not exploring the area's history, head to the great outdoors for a jaunt along the Angel of Goliad Hike and Bike Trail. This scenic route spans about 2.5 miles and cuts through Goliad State Park and Historic Site.
If you have a thing for lakeside retreats with water-based adventures, this Hood County community invites tourists to relax in its soothing atmosphere. Granbury sits on the shores of Lake Granbury, spoiling guests with aquatic fun like kayaking, boating, and paddle-boarding at the Lake Granbury Marina. Granbury's beautiful downtown district houses a lively art scene. Townsfolk and tourists alike gather inside the Granbury Opera House for remarkable theatrical productions, starring the Granbury Theatre Company.
Every October, the Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts highlights the annual events in Granbury. This well-attended event celebrates the arts with wonderful exhibitions, music, and a ton of family-friendly activities.
There are more than enough things to see and do in the Lone Star State, whether you want to visit its desert towns in the West or the Hill Country communities in the heart of the state. From learning the sad story about the Texas Revolution's bloody massacre in Goliad to exploring rare German heritage in Boerne, travelers in the United States can anticipate adventure and nostalgia when they visit any of these small towns in Texas.
If you've visited the city of Fredericksburg to taste Hill Country wine or historic Texas...
If you've visited the city of Fredericksburg to taste Hill Country wine or historic Texas peaches, you may have noticed diminutive structures peppered around town. They’re called Sunday Houses, and their story started before Texas was even a state.
There was little infrastructure in place when the Republic of Texas won its independence from Mexico in 1836. The new country needed roads, towns and schools, but with coffers drained by war, there was no money to pay for them. What Texas did have was land—lots of land. So much land that word was dispatched to Europe, promising 320 acres to every family willing to take a chance on a new life overseas.
Thousands of dreamers crossed the Atlantic Ocean, ultimately landing in ports like Galveston to stake their claim. The first immigrants to arrive in the Texas Hill Country were primarily of German descent. They founded New Braunfels in 1845, the same year Texas joined the United States.
In 1846, a group of 120 settlers led by John Meusebach left New Braunfels to establish Fredericksburg, named for Prince Frederick of Prussia. It took the pioneers 16 days to make the 90-mile journey by wagon, which would take 90 minutes by car today. The settlement numbered approximately 500 family heads and single men by the following year.
Evelyn Weinheimer, archivist and historian at the Pioneer Museum in Fredericksburg, told Chron that things didn’t go exactly as planned. The Hill Country was home to the Comanche, who were understandably displeased that Europeans now claimed the land for themselves.
"John Meusebach knew the settlement could not remain until a peace treaty had been negotiated with the Native Americans first," Weinheimer said.
Negotiations ensued, and in 1847 a treaty between Muesebach and head chiefs Buffalo Hump, Santa Anna and other Comanche leaders was signed. Known as the Meusebach-Comanche Treaty, the agreement promised harmony between the European settlers and Native Americans. The document is unique since it was brokered with private citizens rather than the federal government, and is considered one of the only unbroken peace treaties in U.S. history.
Fredericksburg continued to grow, with 754 residents counted during the 1850 census. Although the pioneers didn’t each receive 320 acres, families and single individuals were given a 100-by-200-foot town lot and a 10-acre out lot (or a parcel of rural farmland).
"Once the families moved to the out lot or even larger tracts of land, they wanted to come to church on Sunday," Weinhemier said.
The roads were still nonexistent or primitive at best, and it was a slow wagon ride to town. Many families arrived on Saturday, attended church on Sunday, and stayed through Monday morning. They built small Sunday Houses to provide shelter and a place to socialize and rest over those weekends.
The Sunday Houses were usually clustered near Catholic and Protestant churches. The 1.5-story structures were built of limestone or wooden frames covered with clapboard. The design featured a one-room ground floor for cooking, eating, socializing and sleeping. In some Sunday Houses, a slender stairway in the corner led to a sleeping loft for children, while others accessed the loft via a staircase or ladder affixed to the exterior.
According to Weinhemier, approximately 50-100 Sunday Houses were built in Fredericksburg between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She estimates that 40 authentic Sunday Houses remain today. You can see their gabled roofs on a guided trolley tour via Frederickburg Tours or on a self-guided walking tour of the Fredericksburg National Historic District. One notable stop is the 1904 Weber Sunday House at the Pioneer Museum. The building offers a glimpse into the past with period furnishings, including a woodstove, a narrow bed, a dining table, chairs and a hutch.
Tourists today can enjoy many of the cozy, historic homes firsthand since many of the remaining historic Sunday Houses have been converted into everything from coffee shops like Sunday Supply to short-term rentals and hotel rooms. The experience is so popular that replica Sunday Houses are found throughout modern-day Fredericksburg.
Authentic Sunday House rentals include the Loeffler-Weber House on Main Street. Built in 1846, the cabin features antiques and rustic furniture to complement the period architecture. The historic structure has been renovated to include modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, central heat and air conditioning, a bathroom with a walk-in shower, and a private hot tub.
Replica Sunday Houses include the stylish Trueheart Hotel, with 13 Sunday House-style suites and rooms gathered around a central courtyard with a large wood-burning limestone fireplace. Accommodations feature spa-like bathrooms, private decks or patios, and whimsical cowboy-core decor.
They say everything is bigger in Texas. Although the saying isn’t necessarily true of Sunday Houses, the petite domiciles offer a unique excuse to visit the Hill Country all the same.
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What’s better than a cello? Two cellos. What’s better than—well let’s just skip to the end: 25 cellists, called the Texas Cellos, playing 13 concerts in 5 historic venues in Fredericksburg, June 8–21st.TPR caught up with Texas Cellos’ creative director, Joseph Kuipers, who’s been pu...
What’s better than a cello? Two cellos. What’s better than—well let’s just skip to the end: 25 cellists, called the Texas Cellos, playing 13 concerts in 5 historic venues in Fredericksburg, June 8–21st.
TPR caught up with Texas Cellos’ creative director, Joseph Kuipers, who’s been putting the whole thing together.
Throughout the fest, students from all over the world will be working with what Kuipers calls “A who’s who of cello teachers,” polishing their technique and socializing. And of course all the concerts, culminating in a massive cello-choir concert on the 21st.
What is it about the cello? Says Kuipers, “It’s very human. It has the same range as a male voice, all the way through a high soprano. It’s the size of a person. It kind of looks human … almost everybody tells me it’s their favorite instrument.”
Fredericksburg seems to be the perfect setting. Kuipers enjoys the combination of high culture and approachable spaces. “When I first discovered Fredericksburg, which is a town I love, I was just so impressed — it’s a little bit of Europe in the Texas Hill Country. We’ve got a Grammy-winning cellist playing in a wine cellar. Things like that. I think people will find it very approachable. You can come to concerts wearing jeans and boots, and yet the music will be of the highest level.”
And the cellists themselves: “Cellists are a little bit of a unique breed. We really enjoy people. We enjoy friendship and getting together. It’s a joy bringing them together.”
GeorgiaGeorgia might be known as the “Peach State,” but Texas holds its own when it comes to this luscious, juicy fruit. Weatherford in Parker County, just outside of Fort Worth, is the largest producer of peaches in the state. But Hill Country ...
GeorgiaGeorgia might be known as the “Peach State,” but Texas holds its own when it comes to this luscious, juicy fruit. Weatherford in Parker County, just outside of Fort Worth, is the largest producer of peaches in the state. But Hill Country — especially Fredericksburg in Gillespie County — is where the summer peach frenzy peaks, and right now, we’re in the thick of it.
From mid-May to late June, the city is brimming with sweet peaches that locals and tourists can’t wait to sink their teeth into. Here’s where to indulge in peaches in Hill Country this summer, including at a pick-your-own vineyard, stands with ample desserts, and one of the town’s newest indulgences — peach wine.
250 Peach Street in StonewallGates open at 6 p.m., Thursday through Saturday, June 19 to 21Tickets are available online for $25 to $40. Kids 12 and under are free.
Every year during the third week in June, Stonewall, Texas, goes all out for peaches. The Stonewall Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Peach Jamboree and Rodeo, featuring two family-friendly days of live music, rodeo events, a peach show and peach auction, a peach patch for kids to go picking, pageants, a Saturday morning parade, and plenty of food, including peach ice cream and peach cobbler. Don’t miss the peach contests inviting residents to enter their baking, preserves, and salsas to be judged on Saturday. Activities can get messy, with goat roping, mutton-busting, washer pitching tournaments, and a peach-eating and pit-spitting contest.
8309 US-290, Fredericksburg
This family-owned Fredericksburg orchard, which began as a humble roadside stand, is now one of the largest peach orchards in town, with over 200 acres and more than 25 varieties grown. Jenschke is the only producer in Fredericksburg that allows visitors to pick their own peaches, and the process can be a little intense due to the high demand. To organize the chaos of such a popular activity, Jenschke offers $5 tickets online, which reserve a spot for peach-picking between 9 a.m. and noon. The date is never set (co-owner Lindsey Jenschke says her husband says “the trees tell me when”), but the prices of peaches are always at $2.50 a pound. Tractors run to help transport people to the trees in the heat. And if you work up an appetite, you don’t have to eat the fruits of your labor. On-site restaurant Leroy Tex-Mex Barbecue offers nachos, tacos, and margaritas. The orchard also opened a tasting room in September 2024, featuring wines from grapes grown in Lubbock, including a peach wine that pairs well with smoky barbecue.
1406 South US Highway 87, Fredericksburg
At this sprawling farmstead, it all started with a small peach orchard that German immigrant J.B. Wieser planted in 1928. Nearly a century later, his son Mark Wieser is keeping the legacy going with the region’s first permanent roadside fruit stand, which he built from an 1870s German log cabin, and a noteworthy partnership with co-owner Case Fisher that has yielded more than 150 handmade specialty products. Stop in at Das Peach Haus’s charming shop for peaches and condiments, including its iconic signature roasted raspberry sauce, jams, jellies, preserves, and wines, including a few peach-flavored varieties.
12862 US-290, Fredericksburg
More than 20 varieties of peaches abound at this roadside stand and orchard, including Starlit White, Spring Gold, Regal, White Fresh, and Southern Pearl. Vogel has 100 acres of peaches and sells an estimated 300,000 pounds each year. Stop at its roadside stand, which sells tons of peach-filled foods, including peach cobbler, peach butter ice cream, peach preserves, peach butter, and peach goat milk lotion that will make you smell like a peach milkshake. Visitors can also get produce and products outside of the peach realm, including plums, blackberries, and figs to make the sweetest preserves, plus tomatoes, okra, and squash. Check its Instagram and Facebook pages for updates.
15194 US-290, Stonewall
After losing its entire crop in 2024, Burg’s made lemonade out of lemons — or rather, peach wine, out of “ugly peaches.” It used the remaining awkward-looking peaches to create its own version of that liquid gold known as peach wine, which is now on sale in the shop. Peach lovers can also stop in for an abundance of peaches and related products, including preserves, peach ice cream, and sundaes topped with fresh peaches.
When to pick your peaches: Peach season in Hill Country starts in May, with peak season going from June through July. If you head to an orchard earlier in the season, the flavor of the peaches will still be good, but you’ll likely get clingstones, which is when the peach’s flesh clings to the pit. Freestones, peaches in which the juicy flesh comes away freely from the pit, will be available starting in June and are most popular among people who use peaches for preserves or freezing.
How to pick your peaches: Choose peaches based on color. Look for ones with more red than yellow, says Jenschke Orchards co-owner Lindsey Jenschke. Choosing by firmness depends on when you plan to eat your peaches. If you want to eat them right away, select a peach that’s more tender and soft to the touch, meaning the flesh presses in when pushed on it lightly. If you’re traveling or planning to wait, firmer peaches are fine. “I leave them on my counter, and usually in a couple of days, they’re ready,” Jenschke says.
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