Temple (my first visit and impressions). TWO THUMBS UP! (Houston: trip , work)

[bellestaroftexas]

I went to Temple on Friday to see my coworker/girlfriend's ranch. It was the first time I have been to Temple (and it's only a 30 min drive from me). I must say, it was an unexpected surprise. I really loved it. I will add this town into consideration in case I cant find a house to buy in Gatesville.
We ate at BJ's Microbrewery/Restaurant..it was so cosmopolitan, the interior almost had a European large bistro flare to it! Even Killeen which is, i believe, a bigger town/city, has nothing of the sort.
I've been told by coworkers that the mall is better than the one in Killeen and not as busy, and that the city is much more navigable and safe to drive in (important for me, since i avoid shopping anywhere but internet, but sometimes i need to go to a store).
I went to The Ranch (bar/restaurant) and Lonestar Sports Bar & Grill. I had no idea how "redneck country" Temple was! I thought it would be a big college yuppie town but it's not-it is truly down to earth.
The landscape is gorgeous-my friend's ranch had gorgeous land, stock tank, beautiful sunsets.
There was a yuppie type subdivision sorta kinda near her, called Valley Ranch-it looked VERY nice.
For anyone considering Temple, I just here to report that it seems to me like a nice community-a big town/small city. just the right size.
Wish I had made it to the Central Texas Airshow this weekend-it was at Temple Airport. DARN!
And for yall in this area, yall must try BJ's Microbrewery Restaurant. AWESOME. great beers and very extensive eclectic menu with something for everyone!
Looks like I will be shopping in Temple instead of Killeen from now on!

[hellpaso]

belle--your posts never fail to make me laugh!! we went to temple to check out a position and declined for the very reasons you think it's such a great place! different strokes!! btw--bj's is just a chain restaurant--we actually have one down here!

[tstone]

Agreed hell... That's the first time I've heard (read about) someone insinuating that a country town of 50,000 is "cosmopolitan" because they had a chain restaurant you can find scattered through the Outbacks and Olive Gardens in the suburbs of Houston or Dallas, among other places. Never thought ''Temple'' and ''yuppie'' would ever be used in the same sentence, either.

[JamesAbilene]

I had a heart attack a few years ago, and I had to go to Scott and White several times. My first impression of Temple was like Bellestar's---a real surprise, more than I expected. However, as I continued to go, it seemed more and more like a smaller town, but I still think it is a good place.

[case44]

Originally Posted by bellestaroftexas

I went to Temple on Friday to see my coworker/girlfriend's ranch. It was the first time I have been to Temple (and it's only a 30 min drive from me). I must say, it was an unexpected surprise. I really loved it. I will add this town into consideration in case I cant find a house to buy in Gatesville.
We ate at BJ's Microbrewery/Restaurant..it was so cosmopolitan, the interior almost had a European large bistro flare to it! Even Killeen which is, i believe, a bigger town/city, has nothing of the sort.
I've been told by coworkers that the mall is better than the one in Killeen and not as busy, and that the city is much more navigable and safe to drive in (important for me, since i avoid shopping anywhere but internet, but sometimes i need to go to a store).
I went to The Ranch (bar/restaurant) and Lonestar Sports Bar & Grill. I had no idea how "redneck country" Temple was! I thought it would be a big college yuppie town but it's not-it is truly down to earth.
The landscape is gorgeous-my friend's ranch had gorgeous land, stock tank, beautiful sunsets.
There was a yuppie type subdivision sorta kinda near her, called Valley Ranch-it looked VERY nice.
For anyone considering Temple, I just here to report that it seems to me like a nice community-a big town/small city. just the right size.
Wish I had made it to the Central Texas Airshow this weekend-it was at Temple Airport. DARN!
And for yall in this area, yall must try BJ's Microbrewery Restaurant. AWESOME. great beers and very extensive eclectic menu with something for everyone!
Looks like I will be shopping in Temple instead of Killeen from now on!

Glad you have some great fun in Temple, Belle! You ought to trek down to Salado, 16 miles to the south. I'm not sure if you've ever stopped there, but I highly recommend it. It's not too far from where you are.

[PanTerra]

We have a BJ's here in Addison North Dallas suburb. Great Pizzas, too. I like the brown Ale - NUTTY BREWNETTETM

See all theri locations.

BJ's Restaurants

[RGV]

What's cool about Temple is that is pretty much right between Austin and Dallas.

And, Case, your right about Salado, worth the trip if you like antiques.

[case44]

It might amaze everyone here how photogenic I-35's towns are. Temple could be one. Well, RGV, there's yet another picture-taking excursion with your name scribbled all over it.

[bellestaroftexas]

yes i know BJ's is a chain, but it sure is a more "unique" chain with a flair compared to the other chains. i hate chain restaurants, but this one i actually liked.
nope aint gone to Salado yet...skeered i will end up spending too much money since i hear there are lots of western and country knick knack stores.........
that will be on my agenda for my next afternoon adventure! and you KNOW i will report back....

[RSTX]

The area behind Valley Ranch is very nice! There are some gorgous homes back there.