If you’re planning a trip to Grapevine, Texas, you’re in for a treat. This charming city is known for its rich history, world-class wineries, and numerous attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new to discover in Grapevine.
To make the most of your visit, we recommend stopping by the Grapevine Visitor Information Center. Located at 636 S. Main Street, Grapevine, TX 76051, this center is your one-stop-shop for all things Grapevine. Here, you can pick up a complimentary visitors guide, purchase tickets to local attractions, and get insider tips from the friendly staff. With expanded hours during special events and holidays, you can always count on the Visitor Information Center to be there when you need it.
At the Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau, we’re passionate about helping visitors experience the best that Grapevine has to offer. From wine tastings and shopping to outdoor adventures and cultural events, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So why not start planning your trip today? With our comprehensive visitors guide and expert recommendations, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in Grapevine.
History of Grapevine
Grapevine is a city with a rich history that dates back to 1844. It is one of the oldest communities in Tarrant County, Texas. The city was named after the wild mustang grapes that grew abundantly in the area. Grapevine was initially a small farming town that grew rapidly in the last half of the 20th century.
One of the most significant events in Grapevine’s history was the arrival of the railroad in 1888. The railroad brought new opportunities for the town, and it soon became a transportation hub for the area. The historic Main Street in Grapevine is a testament to the city’s past and has been preserved to showcase its history.
Grapevine’s population grew from 1,043 in 1940 to 2,821 by 1960. In 1965, the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth joined together to construct the Dallas-Fort Worth Regional Airport, immediately southeast of Grapevine. The airport brought new businesses and opportunities to the area, and Grapevine continued to grow.
Today, Grapevine is a dynamic city that offers visitors a glimpse into its rich history. The city boasts several museums, historic sites, and a vintage railroad that take visitors back in time. Visitors can relive Grapevine’s history at one of the historical museums, take a trip back to the late 1800s at Historic Nash Farm, or share a seat with the Sidewalk Judge at the Historic Wallis Hotel.
In conclusion, Grapevine’s history is an essential part of its identity, and visitors can experience the city’s past by exploring its historic sites and museums.
Main Attractions
Grapevine, Texas has a lot to offer for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss:
Downtown Grapevine
Downtown Grapevine is the heart of the city and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the area. The historic downtown area features charming shops, restaurants, and the Palace Theatre, which hosts classic movies and concerts throughout the year. Be sure to stop by the Grapevine Main Station, where you can pick up a complimentary welcome bag and get information about local attractions.
Grapevine Vintage Railroad
Take a ride on the Grapevine Vintage Railroad and experience the beauty of the Texas countryside. The train offers a variety of excursions, including a ride to the Fort Worth Stockyards and a Christmas-themed ride during the holiday season.
Lake Grapevine
If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, head to Lake Grapevine. The lake offers a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. Visit Silver Lake Marina to rent a boat or enjoy a picnic by the water.
Grapevine Mills
Shop until you drop at Grapevine Mills, a mall with over 180 stores, including popular brands like Nike, Coach, and Gap. The mall also features a variety of dining options and an indoor LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
Gaylord Texan Resort
The Gaylord Texan Resort is a destination in itself, with over 1,500 guest rooms, multiple restaurants, and a variety of activities. Don’t miss the ICE! exhibit during the holiday season, which features stunning ice sculptures.
Great Wolf Lodge
Families with kids will love the Great Wolf Lodge, a resort with a massive indoor water park. The park features a variety of water slides, pools, and other attractions, making it the perfect destination for a day of swimming and fun.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
LEGO fans won’t want to miss the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, an indoor attraction featuring LEGO-themed rides, play areas, and exhibits. The center also offers day passes and annual passes for frequent visitors.
Sea Life Grapevine Aquarium
Explore the wonders of the ocean at the Sea Life Grapevine Aquarium. The aquarium features a variety of exhibits, including a 360-degree ocean tunnel and interactive touch pools. Purchase tickets online for a discounted rate.
Grapevine Botanical Gardens
Take a stroll through the Grapevine Botanical Gardens at Heritage Park and enjoy the beauty of nature. The gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a butterfly habitat and a sensory garden. Admission is free.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, shopping, or family fun, Grapevine, Texas has something for everyone.
Events and Festivals
As the official destination marketing organization for Grapevine, we take pride in showcasing our city’s rich history and culture through a variety of events and festivals. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, there’s always something exciting happening in Grapevine.
GrapeFest
One of the most popular events in Grapevine is GrapeFest, the largest wine festival in the Southwest. This four-day festival celebrates the best of Texas wines and features live music, food vendors, and plenty of family-friendly activities. From grape stomping to wine tastings, GrapeFest offers something for everyone.
Christmas Capital of Texas
If you’re visiting Grapevine during the holiday season, be sure to check out the Christmas Capital of Texas. This special event runs from mid-November through early January and features more than 1,400 holiday events. From parades to light displays to visits with Santa Claus, the Christmas Capital of Texas is a must-see for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.
In addition to these two major events, Grapevine also hosts a variety of other special events throughout the year. From art festivals to food and wine tastings, there’s always something new and exciting happening in our city. Be sure to check our events calendar for the latest information on upcoming events.
At Grapevine, we take pride in our city’s rich history and culture, and we love sharing it with visitors from around the world. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, we invite you to explore all that Grapevine has to offer.
Culinary Scene
When it comes to food and drink, Grapevine, Texas has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Texas charm or international cuisine, you’ll find it all here. Our culinary scene is diverse, vibrant, and always evolving.
Restaurants
Grapevine boasts a wide variety of restaurants that will satisfy any craving. From classic Tex-Mex to gourmet burgers, you’ll find it all here. Some of our favorites include:
- Tolbert’s Restaurant & Chili Parlor: This iconic restaurant has been serving up delicious chili since 1976. Don’t miss their famous “Bowl of Red.”
- Winewood Grill: This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated take on American cuisine. Their wine list is also impressive.
- Esparza’s Restaurante Mexicano: For authentic Tex-Mex, head to Esparza’s. Their margaritas are also a must-try.
Bars
If you’re looking for a place to grab a drink, Grapevine has plenty of options. Whether you’re in the mood for craft beer or a classic cocktail, you’ll find it all here. Some of our favorite bars include:
- Grapevine Craft Brewery: This local brewery offers a rotating selection of craft beers. Their taproom is a great place to hang out with friends.
- Chill Bar & Grill: This laid-back bar has a great patio and live music on the weekends. Their drink specials are also hard to beat.
- Willhoite’s: This historic bar has been a Grapevine institution since 1914. Don’t miss their famous chicken-fried steak.
Wine Tasting
Grapevine is also home to the Urban Wine Trail, where you can taste wines from local wineries without ever leaving town. Some of our favorite wineries include:
- Cross Timbers Winery: This family-owned winery specializes in small-batch wines made from Texas-grown grapes. Their tasting room is cozy and inviting.
- Messina Hof Grapevine Winery: This winery offers a wide variety of wines, including some that are only available at this location. Their patio is also a great place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine.
- Sloan & Williams Winery: This winery is housed in a historic building and offers a unique selection of wines, including some made with fruit other than grapes.
No matter what you’re in the mood for, Grapevine’s culinary scene has something to offer. Come hungry and leave satisfied.
Shopping
Grapevine, Texas is a shopper’s paradise with a variety of options to suit every style and budget. From high-end malls to quaint boutiques, there is something for everyone. Here are some of our top shopping destinations in Grapevine.
Grapevine Towne Center
Grapevine Towne Center is a popular outdoor shopping mall with over 60 stores and restaurants. It is anchored by Target and features a variety of retailers including Old Navy, Ulta Beauty, and DSW. There are also several restaurants and cafes, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat while shopping.
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you won’t want to miss Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. This massive store is the largest outdoor sporting equipment store in the Southwest and features everything from hunting and fishing gear to camping equipment and outdoor clothing. There is even an indoor waterfall and aquarium!
Historic Downtown Grapevine
For a more unique shopping experience, head to Historic Downtown Grapevine. This charming area is home to locally-owned boutiques and antique shops with one-of-a-kind treasures. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing and home decor. Be sure to check out the British Emporium, a specialty grocery store that stocks all your favorite British treats.
Overall, Grapevine, Texas is a shopper’s paradise with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for high-end retailers or unique boutiques, you’ll find it all here.
Art and Culture
Grapevine, Texas is a hub for art and culture enthusiasts. With a plethora of art galleries and live music venues, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Art Galleries
Grapevine is home to several art galleries that showcase a variety of art styles, from traditional to contemporary. One of the must-visit galleries is Giddens Gallery of Fine Art, which features works from local and regional artists. Another popular gallery is Vetro Glassblowing Studio, where visitors can witness the art of glassblowing firsthand.
For those looking for a unique experience, Meow Wolf’s The Real Unreal exhibit is a must-visit. This immersive art installation takes visitors on a journey through a surreal world filled with interactive art and mind-bending experiences.
Live Music
Grapevine is also known for its vibrant live music scene. Visitors can enjoy live music at venues such as the Palace Arts Center and Tolbert’s Restaurant & Chili Parlor. The Grapevine Jazz Wine Train is another popular attraction, where visitors can enjoy live jazz music while sipping on local wines.
Whether you’re a fan of art or music, Grapevine, Texas has something to offer. With a variety of galleries and live music venues to choose from, visitors are sure to have a memorable experience.
Outdoor Activities
If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, Grapevine has plenty to offer. From hiking to biking, kayaking to canoeing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Grapevine is hiking. The city offers several scenic trails, including the Grapevine Public Art Trail and the Northshore Trail at Lake Grapevine. Both of these trails offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside.
If you’re looking for something a little more leisurely, the Riverwalk is a great option. This scenic pathway winds its way through downtown Grapevine, offering beautiful views of the city’s historic buildings and charming shops.
For golf enthusiasts, the Grapevine Golf Course is a must-visit. This 27-hole course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. And if you’re looking to improve your game, the course also offers lessons and clinics.
If you’re willing to venture a little further out, the Fort Worth Stockyards are just a short drive away. Here, you can experience the Old West with activities like cattle drives, rodeos, and cowboy shows.
For a more unique outdoor experience, check out Puffy, the world’s largest inflatable obstacle course. This massive course features over 40 different obstacles, including slides, tunnels, and climbing walls.
And if you’re looking for a more relaxing outdoor activity, Vinny Vanucchi’s “Little Italy” Wine Garden is the perfect spot to unwind. Here, you can enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
No matter what your outdoor interests may be, Grapevine has something to offer. So grab your gear and get ready to explore all that this beautiful city has to offer.
Visitor Information
At Grapevine, we pride ourselves on providing quality visitor information for all our guests. Our Visitor Information Center is the perfect place to start your visit. You can pick up a complimentary welcome bag, including a copy of Grapevine Today magazine – Grapevine’s Official Visitor Guide. Our friendly staff is always ready to help and provide you with all the information you need to make your visit to Grapevine a success.
One of the most important things to consider when visiting Grapevine is parking. We have plenty of parking options available, including metered street parking and parking garages. Our Visitor Information Center can provide you with all the information you need on parking locations and rates.
If you’re looking for souvenirs to take home, we have a variety of options available. Our Visitor Information Center has a gift shop where you can find unique items to remember your trip to Grapevine. We also have a number of local shops and boutiques that offer a wide variety of souvenirs and gifts.
For a unique experience, make sure to visit the Grapevine Main Observation Tower. This 60-foot tower offers breathtaking views of Grapevine and the surrounding area. Our Visitor Information Center can provide you with all the information you need on visiting the tower and other local attractions.
If you’re interested in volunteering during your visit, we have a number of opportunities available. Our Volunteer Program offers a variety of options, including working at local events and festivals, helping out at our Visitor Information Center, and more. Contact us for more information on how to get involved.
We are committed to being a green city, and we encourage all of our visitors to help us in our efforts. We have a number of initiatives in place to reduce our impact on the environment, including recycling programs, energy-efficient lighting, and more. We appreciate your help in keeping Grapevine green.
Finally, if you’re looking for a unique dining experience, make sure to check out Rainforest Cafe. This family-friendly restaurant offers a fun and exciting atmosphere, complete with animatronic animals and a rainforest-themed decor. Our Visitor Information Center can provide you with all the information you need on dining options in Grapevine.
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