Real Estate Photographer in Fredericksburg, TX

Thanksgiving may be well on the way, but the Texas Hill Country is looking forward to another occasion before November is over — the Fredericksburg Balloon and Wine Festival.

The event, hosted by the Grapetown Vineyard and Farm, is slated to be a smorgasbord of fun for anyone looking to check "Fredericksburg visit" off their holiday season bucket list.

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According to the festival's Eventbrite page, attendees will be able to experience "a truly remarkable day in the Texas Hill Country" with several activities available to enjoy, including tethered hot air balloon rides, safari wine tours, grape stomps, live music and more.

Here are a few key details to keep in mind about the event, so you can make the most of your experience this month.

When and where will the Fredericksburg Balloon and Wine Festival take place?

According to the festival's ticket purchase page, the event will take place from noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Grapetown Vineyard and Farm on 8142 Old San Antonio Road.

The vineyard and farm boasts "tremendous" views of the Texas Hill Country, award-winning wines, charming accommodations and more, its information page says. It also includes a Veteran Owned and Operated Animal Sanctuary, which is home to a wide variety of "exotic" animals — including lemurs, zebra, kangaroo, camels, bison, capybarra, mini cows and deer and pygmy goats, to name a few.

Where can I buy tickets to the Fredericksburg Balloon and Wine Festival?

If you're looking to attend the event, purchasing tickets through the festival's Eventbrite page sooner rather than later is the best way to make sure you can secure your admission.

According to the festival's Eventbrite ticket purchase page, attendees can choose from ticket options ranging from $12.33 to $108.02 in costs.

If you'd like the full "VIP" experience — which includes admission, a grape stomp experience, a hot air balloon ride, one wine tasting ticket and a safari wine tour — that will set you back a total of $108.02 with fees.

All ticket sales are non-refundable, the festival's Eventbrite page says.

Where should I plan to park at the Fredericksburg Balloon and Wine Festival?

Perhaps the most annoying part of any event is figuring out the parking situation.

According to Grapetown Vineyard and Farm's parking information section, pre-paid parking is guaranteed on site.

However, "You must pre pay for parking to ensure admission." Handicap parking is also available but limited, so it's best to arrive early, venue reps say.

To pre-purchase your parking, you can visit the festival's Eventbrite page, which vends parking at $23.59 with fees per vehicle.

Rhyma Castillo is a trending reporter for the Express-News and a member of its Digital Go Team. She can be reached at Rhyma.Castillo@express-news.net.

A native of San Antonio and a Texas A&M University graduate, she is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience. She has reported on politics, immigration, climate change, gun violence, and workers’ rights. Additionally, she excels in lifestyle and entertainment writing, covering music, television, video games, technology, and relationships.

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There are endless possibilities for adventure in the Texas Hill Country. Not sure how to spend a free weekend? Main Streets with Hallmark movie charm and German flair are right up the interstate. Looking for a fun day-time escape? You can't go wrong with a quick jaunt underground in historic, million-year-old caverns. Looking to play "cowboy" for a day? Shoot, that's easy. Bachelorette trip? It's always wine-o'clock on Fredericksburg.

But, it's a rare feat, indeed when you can cross off several of these Hill Country "bucket list" adventures in a single day. Fredericksburg's Balloon and Wine Festival on November 29 promises to help you do just that. The event will allow visitors to take part in a Lucille Ball-style grape stomp, enjoy a tethered hot air balloon rides — depending on the weather — go on a safari wine tour, listen to live music, sample some of the state's best wines and so much more. Here's what to know before you go

Where is the Fredericksburg Balloon and Wine Festival?

Held at the Grapetown Vineyard and Farm at 8142 Old San Antonio Road, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, organizers behind the recurring event say it will be a "truly remarkable day in the Texas Hill Country." A similar event was held at the grounds over the summer, called the Balloon and Peach Festival. The Grapetown Vineyard is home to camels, kangaroos, zebras and bison.

The festival will take place from noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday November 29, capping off with a night time balloon glow, depending on the weather.

Information on the ticketing website states that hot air balloon rides are extremely dependent on fair weather. Only between one to two balloons will take to the sky for a special view of the Texas Hill Country. Ticket prices cover a wide range. Currently, there is a two-for-one admission deal that will let you bring a friend for free. That ticket costs $12.33. Tethered balloon rides cost $85.51. General Admission single tickets cost $23.59. Weekend passes can be purchased for $85.51 and VIP passes are $108.02. VIP passes cover a grape stomp, a hot air balloon ride, one wine tasting ticket and the safari wine tour.

Where to park?

Parking passes can be purchased online for $23.59. Guests are required to pre-purchase parking online. In the past, parking has been available at Grapetown Vineyard and Farm for between $15 and $60 at the gate.

Published on October 24, 2025

Chef Dominique Crenn, a French-born culinary icon, is set to make her mark on the Texas Hill Country. The celebrated chef, famous for being the first female in the U.S. to earn three Michelin stars, has announced a new collaboration with Waldorf Astoria. Crenn will helm a signature restaurant at the upcoming Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country resort, which is slated to open in Fredericksburg in 2027. This partnership marks an exciting chapter for both Crenn and the burgeoning Fredericksburg dining scene, which is quickly gaining recognition for its unique mix of wine culture and innovative gastronomy.

The new resort is part of Hilton’s strategic expansion in the region, and it aims to position Fredericksburg, which is traditionally known for its wineries, as a luxury culinary destination. With Crenn’s involvement, the city’s gastronomic landscape will be elevated, adding another layer of allure to the Texas Hill Country.

Crenn’s Unique Culinary Vision for Fredericksburg

Chef Dominique Crenn brings with her an impressive resume, including recognition as a TIME 100 honoree and accolades such as being named one of the World’s 50 Best Icons. Her new restaurant, The Crenn, will reflect her commitment to high-end cuisine, blending French culinary techniques with the best locally-sourced ingredients from the Texas region. The restaurant is expected to offer a mix of premium seafood, meats, and avant-garde dishes, all infused with Crenn’s signature artistic approach to cooking.

At The Crenn, diners will enjoy an atmosphere that goes beyond just food; the restaurant is designed to be a space for storytelling, where nature and art come together to craft an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant will include private dining rooms, a stunning terrace offering scenic views, and high-end bars, making it an ideal spot for both intimate meals and large gatherings.

While Fredericksburg has long been known for its wineries, the town is now emerging as a culinary hotspot. As the area develops, it is attracting more upscale dining establishments, and the opening of The Crenn will only strengthen this new identity. Currently, Fredericksburg does not hold any Michelin Stars, but with Crenn’s prestigious reputation and the hotel’s world-class facilities, that could soon change.

The Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country will be the brand’s first resort in Texas and will feature 60 hotel rooms, 37 villas, and 50 private residences set within a sprawling 106-acre property. The resort will blend luxury accommodations with a curated dining experience, making it one of the most sought-after destinations in the state.

For travelers, Fredericksburg offers more than just great food. The region is known for its beautiful wineries, charming small-town feel, and growing arts scene. The upcoming Waldorf Astoria resort and Dominique Crenn’s restaurant will elevate the destination, adding a luxurious layer of experiences for those seeking high-end leisure.

Travel Tips for Fredericksburg:

Chef Crenn is no stranger to luxury collaborations. She is already involved in several high-profile projects, including the Café Dior by Dominique Crenn in Dallas, which is a partnership with the Christian Dior fashion label. Her San Francisco restaurant, Atelier Crenn, was ranked as one of the top 50 best restaurants in North America. With her latest venture in Fredericksburg, Chef Crenn is not only solidifying her status as one of the world’s top chefs but is also contributing to the growing culinary recognition of Texas.

With its new influx of high-end restaurants and attractions, Fredericksburg is positioning itself as a key player in the Texas travel scene. The collaboration between Waldorf Astoria and Dominique Crenn signifies a major step forward for the town, which is rapidly becoming a luxury destination in its own right. As more travelers seek unique culinary experiences, Fredericksburg’s mix of fine dining, boutique hotels, and scenic landscapes will likely make it one of the top destinations for food lovers in the country.

Key Takeaways for Travelers:

After one of the most incredible aurora displays in modern history last night for Texas, the show may not be over just yet. Another surge of geomagnetic activity is expected to arrive this afternoon, potentially setting the stage for another round of Northern Lights visible as far south as Texas tonight.

Baldy-in-Chief David Reimer shares his experience seeing the aurora with the naked eye from Fredericksburg, Texas, and breaks down who might get clear skies for round two tonight. Much of Texas will stay clear, but there could be some upper-level clouds in South Texas and parts of the Panhandle and West Texas. If the timing of the solar storm cooperates after sunset, we could see auroras visible again across the Lone Star State.

Outside of the space weather excitement, it’s a warm and dry forecast for Texas through the end of the week. Highs will climb well above average, with 70s and 80s across most of the state today and near 90 degrees across South Texas by Friday and Saturday. Fire danger remains elevated, especially across North, Central, and East Texas today, before gradually lowering late week.

Weekend storm chances have decreased as the next upper-level system looks to pass farther north across the Central Plains. However, a new system next week could bring rain and a few thunderstorms back to Texas by midweek. Until then, it’s warm, dry, and occasionally smoky if any grass fires pop up.

We’ll continue posting aurora updates on social media throughout the day and evening.

Owner and Baldy-in-Chief of Texas Storm Chasers, one of the state’s leading independent weather media brands. I specialize in severe weather coverage, real-time storm tracking, and digital weather communication. Passionate about keeping Texans informed, prepared, and engaged—one forecast at a time.

Chef behind three?Michelin?starred Atelier Crenn will bring her celebrated, ingredient?forward philosophy to one of the most anticipated luxury hotels in Texas expected to debut in 2027

FREDERICKSBURG, Texas – Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country and Waldorf Astoria Residences Texas Hill Country proudly announce a culinary collaboration with internationally acclaimed chef Dominique Crenn, who will develop and oversee the signature restaurant at the highly anticipated resort expected to open in 2027. Brought to life by a visionary partnership among Mark Harmon, Robert Radovan, and Tim Sparapani, the resort and residences mark Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts’ debut in Texas—and will also introduce a fresh, independent concept from one of America’s most lauded chefs.

“Chef Crenn is an extraordinary talent with a rare ability to draw out the essence of every ingredient, crafting a culinary experience unlike any other,” said Mark Harmon, developer of Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country. “We want Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country to be more than a destination; it will be place that honors the land, celebrates culture, and offers guests and residents moments of discovery. With Chef Crenn, we aim to further elevate Fredericksburg’s identity as a leading wine and culinary destination by creating experiences that feel local, inspired and enduring.”

“At Waldorf Astoria, our legacy is built on artistry, in design, in hospitality, and in the culinary experiences that connect guests to a true sense of place,” said Dino Michael, senior vice president and category head, luxury brands, Hilton. “Chef Crenn’s creative vision and deep respect for nature align beautifully with the Waldorf Astoria ethos. Together, we’re creating a destination that reflects the spirit of Texas Hill Country while advancing the next chapter of luxury dining.”

The Crenn signature restaurant at Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country promises to be a destination in its own right where world-class design, inspired cuisine, and unforgettable experiences converge. Chef Crenn’s visionary approach—a harmonious blend of artistry, sustainability, and storytelling—will shape a chef-driven menu rooted in French technique, embracing global flavors, and celebrating the region’s rich terroir while elevating Texas Hill Country’s culinary reputation onto the world stage. Guests and residents can expect dishes that blend locally sourced ingredients with a mix of premium seafood and meats, elevated by avant-garde techniques, reflecting both Hill Country heritage and Crenn’s signature creativity. The second-story restaurant will offer a seamless flow between intimate private dining rooms, lively specialty bars, and expansive terraces overlooking the breathtaking Texas Hill Country vistas.

“The Texas Hill Country has a culinary rhythm all its own,” said Chef Dominique Crenn. “This collaboration is a chance to celebrate the land, the people, and the seasons through a new lens—one that’s deeply personal, rooted in nature, and elevated by imagination. I’m honored to bring this vision to life in Fredericksburg, and to be partnering with such an excellent team of hospitality legends to see it through.”

Dominique Crenn’s culinary journey began in France, inspired by her family’s passion for fine dining and early exposure to top regional restaurants. In 1988, she moved to San Francisco to train under legendary chef Jeremiah Tower at Stars, laying a strong foundation in modern gastronomy. She made history as the first female executive chef in Jakarta, leading the kitchen at the Intercontinental Hotel. Returning to San Francisco in 2008, Dominique earned a Michelin star at Luce before opening Atelier Crenn in 2011, where she became the first female chef in the U.S. to earn three Michelin stars. She expanded her culinary empire with Petit Crenn and Bar Crenn. In addition to her restaurants, Dominique authored the bestselling cookbook Atelier Crenn: Metamorphosis of Taste and served as Chief Technical Consultant on the film The Menu. A James Beard Award winner, World’s 50 Best Icon, and TIME 100 honoree, Dominique is a pioneering force dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and equality in the culinary world.

Chef Dominique Crenn is the visionary behind Atelier Crenn in San Francisco. Atelier Crenn was recently ranked #46 on the prestigious North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Her acclaimed portfolio also includes Bar Crenn, a sophisticated cocktail bar adjacent to Atelier Crenn, and Café Dior by Dominique Crenn in Dallas, a thoughtful collaboration with Maison Dior that seamlessly blends art, fashion, and cuisine into a multisensory culinary experience. Chef Crenn will open her next venture in collaboration with Dior, Monsieur Dior by Dominique Crenn, this fall, at the heart of House of Dior Beverly Hills. Celebrated for her innovative approach and global culinary leadership, Chef Crenn continues to shape and inspire the evolving gastronomic landscape.

Designed in collaboration between Studio CABAN, Paul Duesing Partners, FAB Studio, TIPLER Group and The Abernathy Group, Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country will offer an immersive resort experience. Once open, the property will encompass 60 hotel rooms, 37 resort villas, and 50 private branded residences. Guests and residents will have access to five food and beverage venues, ranging from fine dining to casual concepts, with Crenn’s signature restaurant anchoring the resort’s culinary identity. Additional amenities include an 11,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, two resort-style pools and more. The property is located less than one mile from downtown Fredericksburg and is easily accessible from Austin, San Antonio, Houston, and Dallas.

Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country’s partnership with Chef Crenn builds on the brand’s legacy of collaborating with world-class culinary talent to shape the future of fine dining. Across its portfolio, Waldorf Astoria has worked with celebrated chefs such as Michael Anthony (Waldorf Astoria New York), Michael Mina (Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach) along with Clare Smyth and Daniel Boulud (Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch). Each brings a distinctive vision that reflects the culture and character of their destination. Chef Crenn’s addition to this global roster underscores the brand’s ongoing commitment to artistry, sustainability, and extraordinary dining experiences.

For more information on the hotel or residences, please visit waldorfastoriaresidencestexashillcountry.com.

For more information on Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, please visit stories.hilton.com/waldorfastoria.