In a recent blog, associate editor Marty Lange described an Austin scene like a Seurat painting come to life. I never thought of it that way, but it’s true. There are always so many people in any particular “scene” enjoying (and participating in) life in any number of ways. I think that’s a sign of a healthy community. It’s exactly what I love about it here. Even more so, it’s what I love about Texas.

I know other states have their share of picture-perfect moments, but I like to think Texans add an extra special aspect.
Marty’s scene reminded me of when I use to work in Downtown Houston, in the heart of its thriving Theater District. I could look out of my office window, especially on a Thursday or Friday evening, and find the same beautiful thing–an awesome mix of people all sharing the same space joyfully. I especially took note of a particular time when a flock of bikers poured into the Theater District for one of the weekly Party on the Plaza concerts. Within this square block crowded with people, there was a beautiful mix of luxury autos and decked-out pedestrians blended with the motorcycles complete with leather-clad riders. In my people watching, I admired the harmony of the scene, though none on the ground seemed to take note. It was business (or rather pleasure) as usual. An assured workforce heads home or to happy hour; bikers and a younger set flock to the outdoor concert; sequined and well-suited couples make their way to the Alley Theater, Wortham Center or Jones Hall; the club set heads for drinks and dancing, a studious group approaches the Angelika for an art house film fix; diners on café patios chatter about life and such; and any number of concert-goers file into the Bayou Theater for the concert du jour. All of this right outside my window.
The best part of it though was the moment I got to go down and be a part of it.

I’d love to hear others describe a scene from their communities. It’s the best way to get a feel for a place. What is your part of Texas like?

Have a comment, question or observation about something you’ve seen in the print version of Texas Highways, or on our website? This is just the place to weigh in!

Lois M. Rodriguez, Web editor
Texas Highways, the official travel magazine of Texas

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Lois M. Rodriguez, Web editor
Texas Highways, the official travel magazine of Texas