STIR-CRAZY SUMMER: ROAD TRIP RECS

We’ve hit that point of the summer where we start to get a little stir crazy. We’re kind of right in the middle, when Memorial Day seems like a distant memory and Labor Day still feels forever away. We’ve gotten the snowcones, we’ve had the barbecues, and we’ve done the pool thing – over and over and over – and at this point, it feels like Groundhog Day. Welp, why not hit the road?

We’ve compiled a list of some fun road trip recommendations to break up the monotony of the dog days. (Some of these might seem self-serving, but we promise, they’re authentically, genuinely some of our favorite places to go – why else would we build stores there?!) A couple of the destinations could be quick weekend getaways (or even day trips) for those who live in the Lone Star State, and a couple may require a little more forethought and vacation days. They’re all worth putting on your checklist!

SANTA FE

Oh girl, if you haven’t seen Santa Fe in the summertime, you absolutely should. First of all, the air just feels different – cleaner and crisper than the sweltering South Texas heat. Plus, because of the altitude, it cools down at night, which is a welcome respite. It’s also a hub of activity all summer long, hosting markets like the Santa Fe Indian Market and arts and culture events like Santa Fe Art Week. They take advantage of the temperate nights with cool community events such as the Santa Fe Opera, which is a major summer attraction with performances in the open-air theatre, and the Santa Fe Summer Scene which hosts more than 50 free concerts and movie events. Of course, there is hiking and biking and great fishing – and do we even need to mention the shopping? Y’all know every time we go, we’re going to be scouring the square for Southwestern jewelry!

FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS

Yes, of course, we’d love for y’all to come by and see us at the DDR Stockyards store, but even setting that aside, Cowtown is really cool and worth a weekend visit. You can boot scoot at Billy Bob’s, have a memorable meal and a marg (that you may or may not remember) at Joe T.’s, and stay in the lap of luxury at the Hotel Drover. The shopping is superb, there’s the true Texas charm of the daily cattle drive, and the Stockyards Championship Rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum throughout July.

CHEYENNE FRONTIER DAYS

Speaking of rodeos, this is probably one of the more epic and immersive rodeo events in the country. The ten-day spectacle takes place in Wyoming every July, this year from the 18th to the 17th, and features a PRCA Rodeo, all sorts of interactive attractions (a carnival, pancake breakfasts, Native American cultural events in the Indian Village, and a parade with horses, cowboys, and covered wagons), and Frontier Nights, a series of concerts by some of country music’s finest and favorite. It’s a bit of a longer haul from down here, but it’s absolutely worth the drive – a bucket list event for any cowgirl!

ROUND TOP, TEXAS

Again, we know you might think we’re just trying to lure you to our newest brick-and-mortar – and we definitely do want you to stop in and say hi! – but Round Top is really an experience unlike any other. This tiny town of approximately 90 year-round residents is home to some out-of-this-world antique and vintage shopping, and some really charming eateries. Depending on where you’re located, you can daytrip it or you can make a weekend of it – and might we suggest staying in the DDR-designed Casita #5 at The Halles? (If you get a whole group together, you can also experience some outstanding indoor glamping with your gals at the Glamp Inn!)

WHITE STALLION RANCH IN TUCSON, AZ

If you’re looking to head out West and get some classic cowboyin’ under your hat but still lounge in luxury, White Stallion Ranch is where you want to be. This place holds a special place in our heart because it’s where we shot the Desert Desperados collection for the catalog, and our hosts, the True Family, as well as the staff and crew, could not have possibly been more accommodating or kind. Plus, the scenery is breathtaking, the amenities are outstanding, and the activities and entertainment are endless – and top notch. To say it’s a “dude ranch done right” might still be selling it short! It’s a family-owned operation that offers a restful reset under the Western sky.

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA

Listen, if you’re looking for a beachy vacay that’s a little out of the ordinary and not your typical all-inclusive bikinis-and-booze spot, do not sleep on East Coast summers! You can get your fix of salty sea air, but it’s deep-fried in Southern charm. Savannah is dubbed the Hostess City of the South and is known for its breathtaking architecture, renowned art scene, and delectable dining. It’s one of the oldest cities in the country so it boasts enchanting historic homes, scenic (and spirited) cemeteries, as well as fun landmarks like Forsyth Park fountain the famous bench from Forest Gump. It’s just a super-short drive to Tybee Island, the next town over, or you can cross over into South Carolina and spend a day on the highly heralded Hilton Head Island about an hour away.

But, hey, if you just need a quick change of scenery, you know you’ll always find fun, fashion, and a friendly face at the Mothership in good old Yoakum, Texas!