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Local Secrets, Big Finds - Texas

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Barton Springs: Victor Ovalle, Austin Parks and Recreation
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Aurora Picture Show
Houston

713.868.2101
The staff at the Aurora Picture Show is so friendly that during a recent swelter of summer heat, they showed movies that took place in icy or cold climates. This "nonprofit micro-cinema" is housed in a converted 1924 wooden church building. While the movie space is relatively new, it's touted as "one of Houston's most interesting and unusual." With seating for 100 people, it's perfect for "fans of short, artist-made films and videos" who shun the big Hollywood blockbusters to go "off the beaten path." Read more.
Local Secrets, Big Finds - Texas

Chef Point Cafe
Watauga

817.656.0080
The motto at "Tarrant County's best-kept secret" is "white tablecloth dining without the white tablecloth." Set, quite literally, within a "little gas station," what "appears to be a small grill cafe is in reality, home to a four-star meal." The couple that owns the place had always dreamed of owing a restaurant, and despite the humble setting, they serve up "scrumptious" and "sophisticated dishes," running the gamut from grilled sea scallops to pizzas, pastas, and huevos rancheros. You'll never see a Conoco in the same way again. Read more.

Barton Springs Pool
Austin

512.476.9044
Take a break to swim in a "spring-fed" pool that's "always 68 degrees," which means it feels like "ice water" in the summer and "kind of warm" in the winter. Once a month, "they have a big potluck dinner and everybody howls at the full moon." No matter what phase the moon is in when you visit, however, there's always something "pretty funny and wild" going on, and you just might see anything from "Taoist monks performing ritual blessings" to "all-female African drum ensembles." Be on the lookout for the salamander that makes its home here and "nowhere else in the world." Read more.
Local Secrets, Big Finds - Texas

First Monday Trade Days
Canton

903.567.6556
Thought to be the "largest market of its kind," Trade Days began in the 1850s when the town judge held public court proceedings on the first Monday of the month. Curiosity struck locals, who converged in the town square "to stock their pantries and observe the trials." Back then, homemade goods, produce and livestock were most frequently traded, but now the enormous open-air market houses more than 3,000 vendors, selling everything from antiques and collectibles to jewelry and tools. Editor's Tip: Don't show up on the first Monday--the market is now held Thursday through Sunday. Read more.

Mariachi Mass at San Jose Mission
San Antonio

210.922.0543
Once a week, Mexico makes its way across the border when the San Jose Mission holds "Mariachi Mass." Loud and celebratory, the chapel service is "musical, historical, and loved by visitors." The building itself is a "unique offering," and played a "significant part in early Texas and San Antonio history." Founded in 1781, the "grounds have been restored" to provide "interest beyond the ruined missions." And if you want to learn more about Spanish frontier times, be sure to check out the working water mill to grind grain. Read more.
Local Secrets, Big Finds - Texas