Did you know that Texas is home to the very first hamburger? It all started in the small town of Athens when a man named Fletcher Davis created the historic creation in his own cafe in the late 1880s. When he took his culinary invention to the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis they called it a hamburger, and the rest is history. Today, you can get a hamburger almost anywhere, but if you want a perfectly seasoned, juicy, hunger-busting, finger lickin' good American meal, you just HAVE to check out these places. Get ready to experience the best hamburgers in Texas. You'll love every single one.
1) Fred's Texas Cafe - Fort Worth, 915 Currie St Fort Worth TX 76107
Enjoy a massive, juicy burger at this popular Fort Worth institution; pair it with a cold beer at happy hour, and listen to some great live music while you chow down! To learn more, check out the website for Fred's Texas Cafe in Fort Worth.
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2) Chris Madrid's - San Antonio, 1900 Blanco Rd San Antonio, TX 78212
This just might be one of Texan's favorite places to grab a burger, probably because it combines two of the state's most loved foods: Burgers and Tex-Mex. The Tostada Burger and Cheddar Cheezy are highly recommended (just make sure you come ready to digest MOUNDS of cheddar cheese atop the burger.) Visit Chris Madrid's website to learn more.
This quaint little cafe at the end of a hilly country road in Fredericksburg continually tops the charts for the best burgers in Texas. You can add pretty much any topping you fancy, such as roasted garlic, mushrooms, blue cheese, bacon (of course), avocado, green chilies, and more. Treat yourself to this juicy, meaty goodness. For the latest information, visit the official Facebook page for Alamo Springs Cafe in Fredericksburg.
Serving up good old-fashioned burgers to Austinites since 1926, Dirty Martin's has been in the burger game for quite a long time. Which means you know what you're getting when you come here, and it's a no-frills, tasty, greasy, classic burger done right. If you haven't been before, check em out for a burger well-worth a few bucks. To learn more, visit the website for Dirty Martin's in Austin.
5) Toro Burger Bar - El Paso, 6590 Montana Ave, El Paso, TX 79925
At first glance, this place might look like an upscale bar with dainty, gourmet foods, but don't let the atmosphere fool you. Make sure to get the Toro Sauce on your burger - you definitely won't be sorry. Check out the Toro Burger Bar website to learn more.
6) Counter Cafe - Austin, 626 N. Lamar Blvd and 1914 E 6th St
They do a simple, no-nonsense, delicious burger like no other, and when lunch rolls around, you'll see almost everyone devouring their burgers even with crab cakes and fried oysters on the menu. Visit Counter Cafe's website to learn more.
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7) Stanton's City Bites - Houston, 1420 Edwards St Houston, TX 77007
Your taste buds better be ready to go on a roller coaster ride to heaven before you come here - it's just that good. This place has been featured in numerous magazines for serving some of the best hamburgers in Texas, and the top picks by Houstonians are: Miss Piggie, Luke Skyburger, and the Cowboy Brunch. Get a Stanton's burger in your belly ASAP. To learn more, visit the website for Stanton's City Bites in Houston.
Based solely on the name, you wouldn't guess that you can get a top-notch burger here, but you most definitely can and should. Everyone swears by the loaded double cheeseburger and mango habanero sauce, so try it for yourself. To learn more, visit the Facebook page for M&M Grill in Houston.
Though it's a Greek diner, Christaki's does a mean traditional burger too. You can also get a Pastrami burger if you're in the mood for something a little different. Visit the Facebook page for Christaki's Burgers to learn more.
While Uncle Uber's is best known for its off-the-wall "sammiches," they have uber delicious burgers as well. Try the double with pepperjack cheese, grilled mushrooms, and jalapenos pictured above - you won't be disappointed. To learn more, check out the website for Uncle Uber's Sammich Shop.
11) Rodeo Goat - Fort Worth and Dallas, 2836 Bledsoe St, Fort Worth, TX 76107 and 1926 Market Center Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
If your taste buds haven't come across this place yet, you definitely need to change that sometime in the near future. The Chaca Oaxaca was rated Dallas's best burger, but they have plenty of other burgers with unique toppings sure to please any burger fan. Visit Rodeo Goat's website to learn more.
12) Gene's Tasty Burgers - Wichita Falls, 2310 Holliday Rd
If it's delicious and greasy comfort food you're after, look no further than this hidden gem in Wichita Falls. Their epic burgers are made with a juicy meat patty topped with chili and cheese, and
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each bite is absolute perfection. Come and try this long-standing Wichita Falls tradition! They've got great homemade onion rings to go on the side too! Check out the Facebook page for Gene's Tasty Burger to learn more.
With so many burger places in the state of Texas it was impossible to list them all, but these places will surely satisfy your appetite for a hearty, flavorful, cooked-to-perfection hamburger. Who do you think makes the best hamburgers in Texas? What other places would you have added to the list? Tell us in the comments below!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
I don’t know why so many of us love the fall season so much. Could it be the crispness in the air or the transformation of the trees into vibrant autumn hues? Or perhaps it’s all the fun fall activities like hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and more. Personally, I love it all, but my favorite part of the season is the seasonal treats. And by far, apple cider donuts are the yummiest of them all. Let’s face it, most of us aren’t gathering the ingredients to bake these delights, so we prefer to get them from local farms. Luckily, Devine Acres Farm in Medina County Texas makes these treats every year. So, if you need a sweet autumn fix, head to Devine for the best apple cider donuts in Texas.
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You’ll find Devine just 35 miles south of San Antonio, and if you have never visited this charming little town, then here’s your reason to. Here you’ll find Devine Acres Farm, a 40-acre haven where you can enjoy family-friendly fall activities at their annual Fall Country Fest.
The beloved festival kicks off in late September and runs on the weekends until the end of October. This year, there will be a cool pumpkin trail, a beer garden, animal races, petting zoo, train and wagon rides, maze, and music and tons of games for folks of all ages. Many of the games and activities are included in the price of admission, but we encourage you to visit the Devine Acres Farm website to plan your trip this season.
Homemade apple Cider donuts / Apple Cinnamon Doughnuts, selective focus
While there are tons of family-friendly fall activities to enjoy at the farm, one of the main reasons to visit is the delicious seasonal treats. They include but are not limited to chocolate pumpkin bread, hand dipped Blue Bell ice cream, kettle corn, and of course, their famous apple cider donuts. These yummy, cake-like donuts are served hot, perfectly spiced, and sprinkled with loads of cinnamon sugar. One bite and you’ll be coming back for more.
You’ll need to stop by the Original Homestead coffee shop (located on the farm) to get your hands on one or two (no judgment) of these fresh apple cider donuts. The donuts are so good that folks will travel from all over Texas just to enjoy the sweet delights, and I can bet you will too. Be sure to order a steamy hot chocolate or a seasonal coffee blend to have with your donuts.
So, if you need a sweet seasonal fix, plan a trip to Devine Acres Farm this year. Enjoy the family-friendly activities the farm has to offer and then treat yourself to the best apple cider donuts in Texas.
Address: 944 FM 2200, Devine, TX 78016
If you’re searching for more fun in the Lone Star State including the best places to see fall foliage, check out our ultimate guide to fall activities in Texas. And if you have yet to decorate your home and need some inspiration, here are some of our favorite fall decorations to get you started.
What’s your favorite fall treat? Do you like apple cider donuts as much as I do? Tell us below.
