Texas Life

One of the most memorable vacations we’ve ever taken was a Christmas road trip that began in College Station, Texas, and took us all the way to Albuquerque, New Mexico — and back again.

We hit the road full of excitement and holiday spirit, making our first overnight stop in Lubbock. We took some time to explore the city, and along the way, we made sure to enjoy delicious meals at cozy local restaurants and charming cafés scattered across the route.

Our main destination was Albuquerque, but a highlight of the trip was our visit to Santa Fe. There, we strolled along a magical candle-lit path, a holiday tradition that felt straight out of a storybook. Snow was gently falling, the air was crisp and cold, and the entire atmosphere was filled with a mystical charm that made it truly unforgettable.

From Albuquerque, we drove to Amarillo, taking the historic Route 66 highway. The drive itself was an experience — wide-open roads, vintage signs, and a strong sense of nostalgia around every turn.

Next, we made a stop in Oklahoma City and spent some time exploring its sights before heading back into Texas. We ended our trip with a special celebration in Grapevine, a town just outside of Dallas that’s known as the “Christmas Capital of Texas.” It was the perfect place to ring in the New Year before finally returning home to College Station.

This road trip gave us not only incredible memories, but also a new appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the American Southwest — especially during the holiday season.

We’d love to hear from you—feel free to share your Christmas and New Year experiences or travel tips in the comments!