When my husband and I got married almost 12 years ago, we promised each other we would never live in our hometowns. Not that there was anything wrong with them, they just weren’t that . . . exciting.
But, after stepping into parenthood, we began reminiscing about our own childhoods. We realized then that there was something truly special about growing up in a small town where you are known and loved, and close to extended family.
So when our youngest daughter was born and diagnosed with a rare disease, we knew we needed to move closer to family where we’d have more help and more space.
Never say never. We were Burleson bound.
Adjusting to life in a smaller town has been a process, but I can honestly say I have grown to love the character and charm this neck of the woods has to offer! Burleson continues to grow and attract new families, and there are lots of reasons why.
Star Gazing
After 10 years in the Big D, I forgot how much I enjoyed looking at the stars. Burleson is just far enough away from the Fort Worth city lights to get a clear view of the celestial, and we love using the free SkyView app to find constellations. Boring nights at home now feel like mini-vacations in the country when the weather is nice and we can sit outside.
Old Town
Old Town is the heart of Burleson and full of small-town appeal. Restaurants like Babes, Frescos, and Old Texas Brewing Co. draw crowds every night of the week, along with live music events and festivals year-round designed for the whole family. Our five year old loves spotting the train that rolls through Old Town, while checking out the vintage train cars stationed outside City Hall. And our favorite family stop is Grumps, where my son gobbles up free peanuts and Blue Bell ice cream while we eat burgers and and sweet potato fries.
My personal favorite Old Town stop is . . .
Dwell Coffee & Nosh
There’s just something about a local coffee shop that makes you feel right at home. I found this diamond in the rough shortly after moving to Burleson, occupying an old shack (er, house) near my son’s preschool. Dwell has since moved into a new space in Old Town where its quaint interior continues to draw the locals. Cozy up in their vintage sofas, order yourself a Snickers Latte (hot or iced,) and grab some treats from Fort Worth’s Stir Crazy Baked Goods. Ahh, this is my happy place.
The BRiCk (Burleson Recreation Center)
This is my 5-year-old’s favorite spot in Burleson. We love swimming and playing at The BRiCk’s indoor waterpark, complete with a playscape, large slide, and lazy river. I love that they have free childcare and plenty of workout classes to fit my schedule, as well as a large track above the basketball courts, and more exercise equipment than you could ever need. Add in children’s camps, massages, personal trainers, a rock wall, and dozens of unique classes for the little ones, and this place could keep our family busy every day of the week.
Mexi-que
Burleson is home to a very special, local cuisine we like to call . . . Mexi-que. Think delicious, smoked meats and barbecue sauces mixed into a variety of traditional Mexican cuisines like tacos, nachos, and enchiladas. Our favorites are pulled pork nachos from local fast-food joint Mojos, or brisket tacos at Hickory Tree (both owned by the same family). And you will never regret ordering the Tacos Costillas at Frescos in Old Town, with a side of Mexican Street Corn or Esquites. It’s melt in your mouth, barbecue-Mexican food goodness.
H-E-B (John Knows)
My husband loves craft beer, and there is no better resource south of Fort Worth than John at H-E-B. He regularly curates the best selection of wine and craft beers, building relationships with his customers and offering new suggestions. If you’re looking to find a special brew, head south to H-E-B and look for the “John’s Choice” tags. You won’t be disappointed. (Be sure to pick up some of the store’s homemade tortilla chips, salsa, and guacamole before you leave.)
City Market
Every detail of City Market reminds me of my childhood Super Duper, from the automatic doors to the smell of baked goods to the linoleum floors. When we first moved to Burleson, we were greeted with a letter from the store’s owner inviting us to stop by and pick up a few FREE essentials, including a pound of ground beef, a sack of potatoes, a loaf of bread, a bag of Lays potato chips, and a two liter soda. And to top off their excellent customer service, they even provide shoppers with a free soft-serve ice cream cone at every visit. It’s every mom’s grocery-shopping dream!
Okay Burlesonites, I know I’m still new here – what did I miss? What are your favorite stops around town?
As always, Jenny, great job!! You write so well!!
Great article! Next time you’re in Old Town, stop in at the newest shop down there, Geek Out, for some great fun. There are games, toys, comics, and unique gifts for everyone. And, it’s only a few feet from Grump’s.
OH I have been meaning to stop by there! My parents were in town this weekend and they raved and raved about your store. We’ll be coming to see you soon! 😉