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While many of you might be aware that the DFW-area suburb/city of Grapevine is the “Christmas Capital of Texas”, what some of you might know is that another festive mecca is in our midst. Called “The Gingerbread City”, Waxahachie is a darling Texas town home to incredibly well-preserved Victorian architecture, a thriving culture and arts scene, and beautiful downtown district –and it’s just a 30 minutes drive from Dallas!
Why is Waxahachie called “The Gingerbread City”
Before we get to far in, Waxahachie’s gingerbread moniker is not rooted in the molasses-based Yuletide treat, but rather it’s many Victorian-era homes around the town; specifically, the term lends itself to the homes’ spindles, curved gables, brackets, and decorative wood trim that resemble frosting on gingerbread.
Part of the reason the nickname stuck was due to the Gingerbread Trail Historic Home Tour. Organized by the Ellis County Museum in the 1960s, the “Gingerbread Trail” opens the public to select homes in celebration the history and craftsmanship of the town of Waxahachie.
Photo via WIki Commons Exploring Waxahachie’s Downtown District
No where better is this expert craftsmanship on display than Waxahachie’s beautiful downtown district. Like something out of a fairytale, the Waxahachie Downtown District is populated with 19th and 20th-century storefronts along brick streets. Arched windows, ornamental cornices, and gas-style street lamps, further imbue the area with that storybook feel.
During the summer, visitors can see why Waxahachie is also called “The Crape Myrtle Capital of Texas”, as bright blooms of crape myrtles paint the town in brilliant pink hues.
Architecturally, the city’s centerpiece is The Ellis County Courthouse. Completed in 1897, the Richardsonian Romanesque-style building anchors the downtown area with its awe-inspiring, castle-like presence.
Photo credit: @maddysattic Eating, Drinking, and Shopping in Waxahachie
Unlike many historical downtown districts across Texas, downtown Waxahachie isn’t just a thing of the past. The area is bustling with modern boutiques, excellent eateries, and antique shops. For hungry visitors, some of the area’s most popular restaurants include The Dove’s Nest for American comfort food and boutique shopping as well as Meat Church BBQ, and Panza’s Tapping Italy.
If you want to down the hatch, some of the area’s popular watering holes include Southern Roots Brewing Co. brewpub, College Street Pub, and the rockin’ Southern bar and venue, Rockett Cafe & Club.
For shoppers, notable area concepts include The Blume Boutique, The Velvet Angel Boutique, Paper Leaves bookstore, and With Willing Hands Antiques.
For a real throwback experience, we encourage you to get a handmade soda or maybe the “world’s smallest ice scream sundae” from Farm Luck Soda Fountain & Dry Goods on 109 W Franklin St. #119.
In short, Waxahachie is a beautiful, historical town that is worth the 30-minute trip and more. When making holiday plans this season, be sure to schedule in a trip to this fairytale town outside of Dallas.