Local's Guide to Weatherford, Texas

So, for one reason or another, you're visiting Weatherford, Texas. With a population of only 25,000 and a less-than-glamorous nightlife, you're probably only staying here on your way to some other, more exciting destination. Or perhaps you're visiting a far-flung relative. But why not make the best of your time here? As a longtime resident of Weatherford, Texas, perhaps I can help show you around and give you the local scoop on the best of the city. Follow me, won't you?

First: Digs

Most importantly, you'll need a place to sleep, especially if you're not bunking in Great-Aunt Mabel's guest room. Unfortunately, there are no hip boutique hotels or Ritz-worthy accommodations in this town. But if you're looking for something beyond the usual franchise joint, check out the St. Botolph Inn Bed & Breakfast in downtown Weatherford (www.stbotolphinn.com). It's a very cool Queen Anne-style home with gingerbread trim. Rooms range from $95 to $205 a night and include a gourmet breakfast in your room. But make your reservations early, as there are only 7 rooms.

Prefer the comfortable reliability of a hotel chain? No problem. The LaQuinta Inn & Suites (www.lq.com), located on Wall St. across from Wal-Mart, is right in the middle of bustling South Main Street. Oh, and it's clean and safe. Or try the Comfort Suites just down the road on Alford Drive (www.comfortinn.com). Bonus: All rooms are nonsmoking. Both hotels are close to the interstate - a bonus if you're just making an overnight pit stop.

Next: Eats

OK, so you have your hotel. Now you're hungry. If you like chain restaurants, you'll be more than satisfied with Weatherford's Cracker Barrel (home cooking), Chili's (American fare), Applebee's (American fare) or On the Border (Mexican).

Looking for something a little more unique? Head down Weatherford's main drag - South Main Street - to Antonio's (1301 S. Main) - most of their excellent Mexican dinners are under $7 apiece, and there's a wide variety to choose from. My personal favorite is the chile relleno stuffed with cheese. Devoted carnivore? Go to the new Goodnight Loving Steakhouse (1917 Martin Dr.) for some Texas-style beef. And for some great Italian, go to Pastafina (807 S. Main) - their lunch menu is a great value, and their thin-crust, made-to-order pizzas will make you swear you're in Sicily.

In the morning, you can treat yourself to pancakes at the local IHOP (2005 S. Main) or quality java at Starbucks (2010 S. Main). Or, for a truly Weatherford experience, go to Hutch's Pie Shop at 145 College Park Dr. and hobnob with the gossiping locals while munching on some excellent fried fruit pies.

Finally: Attractions

You're still here? Fantastic. There are actually quite a few things to do in town if you have a few spare hours. Chandor Gardens, the local botanical park downtown, is always filled with gorgeous flowers and crystal-clear ponds. Check the website at www.chandorgardens.com before you go to make sure they're open.

Another of my favorite (free!) activities is to just walk around the downtown Weatherford area and admire the old, graceful Victorian mansions. To get there, drive down South Main Street and turn onto W. Lee Street, then park your car on the side of the street and start walking. Just about any direction will take you in the vicinity of some beautiful architecture, including the Parker County Courthouse in the middle of the square, which was just recently restored.

As for the rest of the square - it's less than tourist-friendly, with only a few interesting places. The Weatherford Downtown Café is a favorite lunch spot, and there's a chocolatier/florist shop, but other than that it's mostly attorneys and other uninteresting businesses. If you're feeling ambitious, just walk across the square headed north to York Avenue, where lots of knick-knack and antique shops live.

Weatherford, Texas is a dry town, which means alcohol-friendly businesses are few and far between. In other words, don't go looking for any bars or clubs, because you won't find them. Chili's, On the Border, Applebee's, and Montana Restaurant all have bars inside. However, to drink you must join a "private club" by filling out an application for a Unicard (read more at www.unicardsystems.com). Don't worry, it's free, and the waitress has all the paperwork you need.

What's that? You have to be on your way? Well, we all knew it had to happen sooner or later. Have a safe remainder of your journey, or a happy trip home. We're so glad you could stop by and visit us in Weatherford!