My first real job in journalism was at the Grapevine Sun, a twice-weekly newspaper headquartered in the city’s—at the time—fledgling downtown historic district. Back then, in the late 1990s, there wasn’t much happening on Main Street. It was a film set without a screenplay or a cast. The paper stopped publishing in 2009, and in its place now is the Grapevine Olive Oil Company, which is probably of a bit more use (no offense to my former colleagues). At least it is to the people most likely to come here, day-trippers and conventioneers of various stripes. (The day I visited, window signs were welcoming Kubota, the farm and construction equipment concern.) Visitors and locals alike have plenty to see and do now, a full afternoon of browsing and wine-tasting options, all in 100-year-old buildings with plaques out front. And it’s not just the historic area: the modern part is buzzing, too, dominated by the new Grapevine Main Station complex, with Harvest Hall’s various dining options, the bar scene at the boutique Hotel Vin, as well as the wide-open space of Peace Plaza out front and the huge clock tower hovering above it all. Grapevine could probably use a newspaper now.
5 Things To Do in Grapevine
Event
Historic Grapevine Christmas Spectacular
Through Jan. 9
In addition to an animated snowman, singing tree, oversize toy land, and nightly City Hall light show around the square, you’ll find artisans crafting gifts in the Cotton Belt Railroad Historic District. Although you may have missed the fully booked Christmas Wine Trains, there’s still time to hop aboard the North Pole Express.
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